And thus I have to get close to a record for Number of Individual Characters on One Server. This is... the fourth, I think.
Character Information
Name:
William Kaldur
Age:
37
Race:
Human
Physical description:
A tall and spare human of fair complexion, William gives off an air of cool confidence -- and, perhaps, a bit of condescension. His most distinguishing feature is an entirely bald head, though William does maintain a tidy beard and moustache. His eyes are chips of blue-gray ice, and his nose hooks slightly at its end. His face is almost constantly set in a frown.
Screen capture of your skin:
Biography:
William was born to a reasonably affluent family in the small holy province of St. Jessica. His father was a cleric of Pridans, god of strategy and love, and his mother was an artist of some renown who had designed, or had part in the design of, a number of the province's many, many cathedrals and similar constructions.
From his early childhood, of course, William knew he was destined for a similar path. Very few people of renown inhabited St. Jessica who were not involved with the clergy in some way, shape or form. In his adolescence the boy attended a theological school in which he learned of the gods in greater depth -- in particular, Saviesa and Thaer, though his father had encouraged him to devote his studies to Pridans.
In his younger days William traveled the Confederation and beyond, sharing food and faith with any who would take him -- conducting ceremonies, leading prayers, et cetera. At one point he had even dared, in the hubris of youth, to voyage to the Bheille in subtlety and secret to attempt to win back anyone who might be 'returned to the way of the gods.' As one might imagine, this endeavor ended with an escape by the skin of William's teeth, as he stowed away on a smuggling vessel in order to avoid a veritable angry mob.
From there William's theological voyages found him in Arturan, where he resided for several years as a liaison from the church of St. Jessica to the elves. It was during this time that he gained a fascination with the magic of the Arcanists -- and with it, a certain ambition. However, the elves were loathe to share any of their accumulated knowledge even with a respected envoy, and so William eventually resigned his position in frustration.
He returned to his home province and remained there for nearly a decade, caring for his now-elderly parents and taking up a respected position within the church.
However, just as things had begun to settle, word reached the mainland of an undead Scourge that had arrived in the holy islands of Enris, enveloping the island but for a small pocket of resistance. And there were other rumors as well, whispers of arcanists and witches and ancient magicks returned to the world after thousands of years. Eventually the Church elected that someone should be sent to serve as a link between it and Enris, and William -- with his considerable experience serving St. Jessica's interests within and without of the Confederation -- was chosen.
What is your character’s main goal? (Motivation):
To impart his theological and scholarly knowledge to the people of Enris should it help to fight the undead, to provide the people with one of rather few connections to the mainland, and to learn of the secretive and powerful magic that is said to be taught on the Isles once more.
Strengths (Both physical and personality):
- Intelligent, with a quick wit
- Well-educated and knowledgeable
- Reasonably persuasive and determined
- Somewhat wealthy
Weaknesses (Balance out yours character's strengths with suitable weaknesses. Not knowing how to do something that is outside of your class is not a weakness. I.E. Not knowing how to use a bow as a miner.):
- Little physical strength or endurance to speak of -- he is unused to physical labor
- Rather arrogant and stubborn
- Ambitious in the classical sense of the term; greedy and power-hungry
Bonus Language (Caro is free):
Arturan
Runic
Character Traits (up to 7 points worth):
- Follower of Saviesa: 2
- Follower of Thaer: 2
- Scholar: 2
- Savings I: 1
- Talent: Forgery
Soooo how about that Battle of Concord? I think that was record-setting in terms of number of player-deaths in a single event. Absolutely brutal end to Chapter I.
You're telling me. Now someone get to work reviewing people's new characters, please
Physical description:
A great bull of a man even in such 'advanced' age, Aspar is large and well-muscled. In his prime the man was no doubt handsome by Savage standards, but now his skin has a sickly greenish tint to it, and in places appears to be deteriorating. Aspar's eyes are a dark and bloodshot burgundy-red color, his hair thinning and gray -- though he still manages to maintain an impressive beard. He dresses primarily in light leather armors over simple cloth, and could frequently be seen with a bow in hand and a quiver on his back.
Screen capture of your skin:
Biography:
Aspar Lascaris was born deep in the heart of the Forlorn Lands of Horizon, the eldest son of the great war-chief Genseric Lascaris. His birth was within the tribe said to have been accompanied by a great thunderclap and the voice of Rhyfel himself from the heavens, but in reality the only truly unusual event that transpired at Aspar's birth was the death of his mother some two hours later.
Nonetheless he was a strong boy, and seemed destined for greatness. He took a liking at a young age to both the morningstar and the bow, and throughout his childhood and adolescence practiced almost incessantly with both. When Aspar was fourteen -- a teenager by human standards, but well into adulthood by Savage ones -- his father finally met his end at the age of thirty-seven, and Aspar took over the mantle of his tribe's leadership, and immediately embarked on a sizeable military campaign against the neighboring clans.
So things went for a number of years, as victorious campaign followed victorious campaign and more of the tribes were subjugated. Aspar sired nearly a dozen children in that time, all of whom were granted control over a portion of his lands in co-rulership. For some time it seemed almost as if he might manage to form a nation-state to compete with the Confederation, and perhaps to push its sympathizers out of Horizon once and for all.
But such things, of course, cannot be. As Aspar aged he grew weaker, and his children grew more quarrelsome. At the ripe age of thirty-three, as aches began to settle deep into his bones, Aspar saw an alternative to ending his days mediating his ambitious offspring -- rumor had arrived of a rising of undead in faraway Enris. So he departed on horseback with a dozen of his most trusted riders, and they set off across the sprawling expanse with the goal of hiring a ship at Beschwall.
The journey was not kind, however. None of Aspar's party knew more than a spattering of Caro, and only a few had ever even glimpsed the sea. After a number of frustrating barriers, they finally managed to negotiate passage and a stop in Enris onboard a ship bound for Rinion.
The seas were not kind either, sadly, and a rogue storm off the coast of the Kingdom saw the ship dashed on Enris' shore some few leagues from Thaeron. Aspar, one of few survivors, gathered those remaining and set off along the coast, fighting or fleeing from the undead as they fell upon the group. In the end Aspar was the only man to make it to the city with his life, and spent some time just outside the town tending to his wounds and watching the city before taking the final steps through the gates.
What is your character’s main goal? (Motivation):
To find an honorable end to his days drinking, wenching and combating the undead.
Strengths (Both physical and personality):
- Physically strong and somewhat agile
- Skilled with blunt and ranged weapons
- Good leadership skills, provided anyone would listen to him
- Remarkable endurance
Weaknesses (Balance out yours character's strengths with suitable weaknesses. Not knowing how to do something that is outside of your class is not a weakness. I.E. Not knowing how to use a bow as a miner.):
- Gradually beginning to deteriorate from age
- Knows only a small smattering of Caro
- Very disdainful of non-Savage races
- Boisterous and arrogant
As it turns out, Enris has little need of those who walk the middle path when people of both the more extreme paths are readily available. Consider this take two; i expect it to be much more interesting to play. OOC section not included because I was already accepted before, and nothing OOC has really changed since then.
---
Character Information
Name:
Roparzh mac Alan / 'Robert the Bold' / 'Robert the Pilgrim'
Age:
43
Race:
Human
Physical description:
A lean yet stern-looking Breton of average stature and brown hair beginning to gray. He has a rather impressive if unkempt beard and similarly-colored eyes. Though he gives off an air of near-constant weariness, there is also a bright -- almost feverish -- glint that is almost constantly present in his eyes. As far as clothing is concerned Robert dresses in a mix of different clothes -- a commoner's traveling cloak over a slightly more impressive-looking red surcoat and some odd smatterings of chain, scale and leather armor. Near-constantly present in one hand or slung on his back is an aged-looking but sturdy quarterstaff.
Screen capture of your skin (I recommend uploading to imgur and posting link here): http://imgur.com/jIao0vZ
Biography (Minimum 225 words. Most very fleshed-out characters have around 300, but feel free to use even more than that if you wish. Try and avoid clichés such as loved one being killed by bandits or the like):
'Robert the Pilgrim' was born Roparzh, son of Alan, in one of the more populated Mistlander settlements -- that is to say that on a good day and with a deal of squinting, one could look into the distance and just see the edge of the neighbors' farms. Roparzh's father was the small hamlet's only blacksmith and a mediocre one at that, making his living hammering out scythes and nails. His mother and his elder brothers busied themselves on the family's farms as they struggled to bring forth turnips from the peaty soil of the Mistlands' bogs.
While many, or indeed most, of the people of the Mistlands were content to spend their lives toiling away in the swamps of the kingdom, Roparzh dreamed of something more, and found himself coming to detest his life in the Mistlands. These feelings were only elevated by the rare arrival of a small trade convoy passing through to the King's keep. As the merchants stopped to rest in the village, Roparzh -- then perhaps fourteen years of age -- whittled out of them tales of riches unheard of in the lands to -- well, to any direction that led out of the moors, really.
After several months of anticipation and silent deliberation, the merchants passed through once more on their return trip from peddling their wares to the King. In the early morning before the day that they would leave the town again Roparzh stole a meager coin purse from his father and offered it to the caravan head to take him to the Crownlands. Though the merchants were none too fond of the idea of smuggling an adolescent Mistlander out of the bogs, with enough arguments and clanking of coin they were eventually convinced.
Upon arrival in the Crownlands, Roparzh was confirmed in his hopes that the fief would be all that he had dreamed of and more -- the number of people in the capital alone must have been twice the entire population of the Mistlands, and the Emperor of Man's palace worth more than all that had ever been produced in his homelands. But after a few days of awe the hunger pangs began to set in, and Roparzh realized that he was an illiterate boy who had fled from his only family to a land that didn't even speak his language.
Lost, starving and impoverished, Roparzh turned to what was truly the only option -- petty thievery. Always a light boy on his feet, he stole potatoes and apples and haunches of venison while the merchants were distracted. More often than not he was caught in the act and thrown in a musty cell or orphanage for a short time, but the important part was that he was able to choke down some food first. He even managed to learn a few words of Caro -- primarily how to say "Look over there!" and to flee when the merchants shouted "You rancid thieving swine! Guards!"
And so things continued for several years, untill Roparzh came of age and found himself drawn to the plazas where recruiters gathered men to sell their swords against various insurrections and Savage tribes. Though by then he still could hardly understand one word of Caro in three, Roparzh managed to get enough words across to join a mercenary company under the more cosmopolitan name of Robert.
Though before this 'Robert' had never once held more than crude cutlery he was eager to earn his keep, and soon found himself mastering the finer points of a large, ugly mace. He trained with it as the months passed and the company marched eastward, and in his first skirmish Robert managed to distinguish himself, and earn the nickname 'Robert the Bold', by fighting with reckless abandon and managing to cave in the skulls of a few unruly Savage tribesmen in the process.
And so things continued for quite a few years, though Robert learned to temper his bravery quickly enough -- after all, as the saying goes, there are bold sellswords and then there are old sellswords. His company continued a number of campaigns on behalf of the Confederation in the heartlands of Horizon, subjugating Savage tribes who would just as quickly rise up once they had left. He also learned the working of the Caro language from his brothers-in-arms, until he could speak with an almost-natural fluency.
But all luck must turn eventually, and all that it took was a federation of Savage tribes to gather themselves and attack the company in earnest for things to fall apart. Though the fighting at first seemed in their favor the Savages fell on the company from behind and tore through its ranks in a bloody massacre.
After the carnage had ended, word began to reach the survivors in their scattered encampments that men were attempting to regroup under the leadership of one of the company's few surviving commanders. But rather than re-assemble and line up once more for slaughter, Robert and a few of his companions instead abandoned their contracts to desert the company. The pain of desertion was death, as they well knew, but execution would surely be more humane than what the Savages would do if they fell upon Robert's comrades again.
And so they set out upon the road with little but their cloaks and their swords, intending to simply return to the Crownlands and hope that nobody else from the company made it back to give word of their desertion. After weeks on the road, however, their goals switched to the short-term ideal of avoiding starvation . There was little possibility of hunting, armed with maces and clubs and shortswords as they were, so instead they subsisted off of little but roots and berried before finally reaching a slightly more populated area of the Confederation. And then, truly desperate, Robert and his band attacked a small group of traders -- not even a caravan, just a few men and their mules -- and stole their goods.
But none of the group could bring themselves to kill the merchants, and so they let the men go. This meant that word would spread quickly enough, and they were well and truly known outlaws now. This resulted in a cruel cycle of the band being forced to hide out in the wilderness, then robbing those who ventured out to sustain themselves. After a few robberies, banditry simply became a way of life.
All of this was ruined, of course, when a contingent of guards finally tracked Robert and his comrades to the cave in which they'd been hiding. Several of his friends resisted more stubbornly and were killed, but Robert, hungry and tired, gave in almost meekly.
And so began the long trek back to the Crownlands and the nearest real prison, for the ragged band had looked so desperate that even the townspeople could hardly bring themselves to call for a hanging. So instead Robert was simple hauled to a dark cell and left to rot for several years.
About midway through this stay in prison, Robert's sanity broke a bit -- or, as he considered it, he came to have a revelation. He saw a great spawling field of dead grass, its earth soaked with tar and blood. He saw a sea, and on it a small grouping of islands, struggling as waves reached higher and higher. He glimped men -- but not men, the dead, the undead -- swarm the walls of a once-proud city.
When he awoke after nearly two days of sleep in his musty cell, Robert became a changed man. He spent hours each day praying loud prayers to gods he had only known vaguely, the half-memorized words of his childhood, the cynical mutters that the sellsword spoke under his breath before battle, long rambling speeches that originated in his half-broken mind when the first two had all been spoken a hundred times over.
And after his involuntary stay in prison had ended Robert walked out of the prison and swapped his old mercenary's mace for a staff. He made one last journey southward, to the bogs and brothers who seemed strangers and two graves atop a foggy hill, and then he spent the last of his meager coin on passage to Thaeron.
What is your character’s main goal? (Motivation):
To aid the righteous of Enris in their crusade against the undead through word and action and prayer.
Strengths (Both physical and personality):
- Smarter than average -- not particularly wise, but with a good head on his shoulders.
- Utterly devoted to his cause
- Reasonably charismatic and empathetic
Weaknesses (Balance out yours character's strengths with suitable weaknesses. Not knowing how to do something that is outside of your class is not a weakness. I.E. Not knowing how to use a bow as a miner.):
- Socially, just about one class above your average street beggar
- Still not quite] sound in the head
- Somewhat limited understanding even of Caro beyond conversational
- Wearied and worn-down physically as well as mentally, his mind and muscles somewhat blunted from time in prison
Bonus Language (Caro is free):
Mistlander
Character Traits (up to 7 points worth):
2 - Follower of Thaer
1 - Light Armor Proficiency
1 - Medium Armor Proficiency
1 - Simple Weapons Proficiency
1 - Fleet I
1 - Danger Sense
0 - Orator (Talented)
It's customary to re-post applications when deferred. It helps reapplications not be overlooked
I'd have reposted it if there had been a lot of replies or time in between the deferral and the editing, but I didn't think it was necessary. Regardless, here it is again, fixed:
Out of Character Information
IGN:
DeltaV_
Do you wish to join our community Skype chat? If so, what is your Skype username? (This is optional):
Sure. My Skype username is 'delt4v'.
Have you read and agreed to both the rules and the lore of the server?:
Yes.
What is the definition of “Powergaming”?:
Powergaming is usually defined as not allowing other people to react to your character's actions. An example might be "Gary Stu draws his sword and cleaves in the head of John Smith, killing him!" where the proper emote would be "Gary Stu draws his sword and swings it at John Smith's head!"
What is the definition of “Metagaming”?:
Metagaming is using out-of-character knowledge to benefit yourself in-character. An example would be using your knowledge of Minecraft crafting recipes to make yourself a sword even though your character knows nothing about smithing.
What is the definition of “Roleplay”?:
Roleplay is, essentially, 'playing the role' of a fictional character in a game or on a forum.
Who can use flymod, X-ray and other such clientsided mods?:
No one. Well, I guess maybe the admins could use x-ray if they liked, but I doubt that there would be much point.
When are you allowed to cause the death of another character?:
When the person playing that character gives consent for their character to die.
When are you allowed to speak out of character?:
In the OOC channel, or if you must in local chat then by surrounding it with brackets [[ ]], parenthesis (( )) or something similar.
Do you have any previous RP experience, Minecraft or elsewhere? (Optional):
I've been roleplaying (badly, at first) in some capacity since I was eight or nine years old, mostly on forums. For the last several years I've been doing Minecraft RP on-and-off (Minecraft RP servers tend to be a gamble as to whether the RP is decent). I think I've played on one or two Silver Gaming servers, though sadly not for any long period of time.
Character Information
Name:
Harek 'One-Eye' Eiriksson
Age:
53
Race:
Human
Physical description:
If there was one word to describe Harek, it might be 'great' -- he stands at well over six feet, with a burly stature and appearance. He is well-muscled and fit despite his age, owing to most of a lifetime of physical exertion. HIs face is weathered and scarred, with a small but bushy beard and a mane of similarly-colored hair. One of his eyes is blinded as a result of a mishap involving an axe to the face, and the skin around said eye still bears a messy jagged scar from the same incident.
Biography (Minimum 225 words. Most very fleshed-out characters have around 300, but feel free to use even more than that if you wish. Try and avoid clichés such as loved one being killed by bandits or the like):
While the people of Norland have ostensibly sworn allegiance to the Cordolan Confederation, and are thus supposedly deterred from the raiding and reaving of their ancestors, the politics of the continent matter little to the people and the traditions of the northern wastes. As such, while the greater powers of Norland have in theory outlawed such practices, these laws are hardly, if ever, enforced. It is one of these more 'traditional' Norlander tribes that Harek Eiriksson was born. The harsh weather and thin soil of the lands which he called home could hardly support the farming of crops, and so from the time Harek could hold an axe he was taught in the intricacies and the art of combat. When he came of age Harek was recruited onto one of several longships, and they set out for the Savage lands to take what they could not grow. Such raids were always quick and messy, filled with the ringing of axe and sword until the surviving Savages fled or the raiders returned to their longboats. These combats were Harek's lifeblood -- he would work himself into a frenzy, more beast than man, striking down any man foolish enough to face him.
And so things continued, until Harek had control of his own longship and crew. All along the eastern coasts men fled their homes at the sight of his sails, and Harek brought back their goods to feed his people. But such things cannot last -- the Savages either fled the coasts or began to put up more of a resistance. This, coupled with Harek's rapidly increasing age, led him to finally sail homeward for the last time and give up his axe. But the Norlanders are nothing if not a hard people, and so Harek was still expected to take up a job to aid the tribe or to starve. He chose the art of blacksmithing, forging arms and armor for his people from bronze and iron. While not so fulfilling as his days raiding, he took satisfaction in the exertion and in knowing his weapons and tools secured his tribe's future.
Alas, the resurgence of undead in Enris, coupled with a series of devastating blizzards, resulted in yet another change of direction. The tribe, ravaged by snow, scattered to the wind and fled south. Harek, reluctant to give up his livelihood but also unwilling to starve or freeze in the unforgiving wastes, traveled to Enris to spend his last years lending hammer and axe to the destruction of the undead scourge.
What is your character’s main goal? (Motivation):
To combat the recent resurgence of undead on the islands, to do something worthwhile with his last years, and, if possible, to make coin in the process.
Strengths (Both physical and personality):
- Physically powerful
- Skilled with many melee weapons
- Able to work himself into a berserk rage in combat
- Reasonably skilled blacksmith, able to forge and shape most metals
- Little sense of fear
Weaknesses (Balance out yours character's strengths with suitable weaknesses. Not knowing how to do something that is outside of your class is not a weakness. I.E. Not knowing how to use a bow as a miner.):
- Little in the way of formal education
- Hot temper
- Very impulsive and occasionally bull-headed
- Little/no depth perception due to lost eye
- Arrogant, bad at following orders
What is your character's personality? (Optional; use this field to note character traits that you feel don't fit into either strengths or weaknesses if you wish):
Harek could be described as a simple man of simple tastes. There are a few things he enjoys in life: The aching of muscles after a day of work, the adrenaline-rush of close combat, the weight of a helm on his head and an axe in his hand. He holds a certain disdain for the people of other races and cultures, many of whom he regards as cravens or fools as they toil in their fields for what could be taken with strength. He is quick to get angry and slow to forigive, and holds little respect for those he deems unworthy of it (read: anyone who hasn't explicitly proven themselves to him).
Do you wish to join our community Skype chat? If so, what is your Skype username? (This is optional):
Sure. My Skype username is 'delt4v'.
Have you read and agreed to both the rules and the lore of the server?:
Yes.
What is the definition of “Powergaming”?:
Powergaming is usually defined as not allowing other people to react to your character's actions. An example might be "Gary Stu draws his sword and cleaves in the head of John Smith, killing him!" where the proper emote would be "Gary Stu draws his sword and swings it at John Smith's head!"
What is the definition of “Metagaming”?:
Metagaming is using out-of-character knowledge to benefit yourself in-character. An example would be using your knowledge of Minecraft crafting recipes to make yourself a sword even though your character knows nothing about smithing.
What is the definition of “Roleplay”?:
Roleplay is, essentially, 'playing the role' of a fictional character in a game or on a forum.
Who can use flymod, X-ray and other such clientsided mods?:
No one. Well, I guess maybe the admins could use x-ray if they liked, but I doubt that there would be much point.
When are you allowed to cause the death of another character?:
When the person playing that character gives consent for their character to die.
When are you allowed to speak out of character?:
In the OOC channel, or if you must in local chat then by surrounding it with brackets [[ ]], parenthesis (( )) or something similar.
Do you have any previous RP experience, Minecraft or elsewhere? (Optional):
I've been roleplaying (badly, at first) in some capacity since I was eight or nine years old, mostly on forums. For the last several years I've been doing Minecraft RP on-and-off (Minecraft RP servers tend to be a gamble as to whether the RP is decent). I think I've played on one or two Silver Gaming servers, though sadly not for any long period of time.
Character Information
Name:
Harek 'One-Eye' Eiriksson
Age:
53
Race:
Human
Physical description:
If there was one word to describe Harek, it might be 'great' -- he stands at well over six feet, with a burly stature and appearance. He is well-muscled and fit despite his age, owing to most of a lifetime of physical exertion. HIs face is weathered and scarred, with a small but bushy beard and a mane of similarly-colored hair. One of his eyes is blinded as a result of a mishap involving an axe to the face, and the skin around said eye still bears a messy jagged scar from the same incident.
Biography (Minimum 225 words. Most very fleshed-out characters have around 300, but feel free to use even more than that if you wish. Try and avoid clichés such as loved one being killed by bandits or the like):
While the people of Norland have ostensibly sworn allegiance to the Cordolan Confederation, and are thus supposedly deterred from the raiding and reaving of their ancestors, the politics of the continent matter little to the people and the traditions of the northern wastes. As such, while the greater powers of Norland have in theory outlawed such practices, these laws are hardly, if ever, enforced. It is one of these more 'traditional' Norlander tribes that Harek Eiriksson was born. The harsh weather and thin soil of the lands which he called home could hardly support the farming of crops, and so from the time Harek could hold an axe he was taught in the intricacies and the art of combat. When he came of age Harek was recruited onto one of several longships, and they set out for the Savage lands to take what they could not grow. Such raids were always quick and messy, filled with the ringing of axe and sword until the surviving Savages fled or the raiders returned to their longboats. These combats were Harek's lifeblood -- he would work himself into a frenzy, more beast than man, striking down any man foolish enough to face him.
And so things continued, until Harek had control of his own longship and crew. All along the eastern coasts men fled their homes at the sight of his sails, and Harek brought back their goods to feed his people. But such things cannot last -- the Savages either fled the coasts or began to put up more of a resistance. This, coupled with Harek's rapidly increasing age, led him to finally sail homeward for the last time and give up his axe. But the Norlanders are nothing if not a hard people, and so Harek was still expected to take up a job to aid the tribe or to starve. He chose the art of blacksmithing, forging arms and armor for his people from bronze and iron. While not so fulfilling as his days raiding, he took satisfaction in the exertion and in knowing his weapons and tools secured his tribe's future.
Alas, the resurgence of undead in Enris, coupled with a series of devastating blizzards, resulted in yet another change of direction. The tribe, ravaged by snow, scattered to the wind and fled south. Harek, reluctant to give up his livelihood but also unwilling to starve or freeze in the unforgiving wastes, traveled to Enris to spend his last years lending hammer and axe to the destruction of the undead scourge.
What is your character’s main goal? (Motivation):
To combat the recent resurgence of undead on the islands, to do something worthwhile with his last years, and, if possible, to make coin in the process.
Strengths (Both physical and personality):
- Physically powerful
- Skilled with many melee weapons
- Able to work himself into a berserk rage in combat
- Reasonably skilled blacksmith, able to forge and shape most metals
- Little sense of fear
Weaknesses (Balance out yours character's strengths with suitable weaknesses. Not knowing how to do something that is outside of your class is not a weakness. I.E. Not knowing how to use a bow as a miner.):
- Little in the way of formal education
- Hot temper
- Very impulsive and occasionally bull-headed
- Little/no depth perception due to lost eye
- Arrogant, bad at following orders
What is your character's personality? (Optional; use this field to note character traits that you feel don't fit into either strengths or weaknesses if you wish):
Harek could be described as a simple man of simple tastes. There are a few things he enjoys in life: The aching of muscles after a day of work, the adrenaline-rush of close combat, the weight of a helm on his head and an axe in his hand. He holds a certain disdain for the people of other races and cultures, many of whom he regards as cravens or fools as they toil in their fields for what could be taken with strength. He is quick to get angry and slow to forigive, and holds little respect for those he deems unworthy of it (read: anyone who hasn't explicitly proven themselves to him).
One thing that I find strange is that since the advanced versions of many traits cost two more than the basic ones, and you can only increase your maximum points up by one with training, people with basic traits can't become advanced without giving up another trait. Is this intentional?
Great server, lots of fun with plenty of experienced roleplayers and interesting characters, as well as incredibly active admins and tons of events. The only thing it's lacking is more people, so join now!
Game of Thrones is great, but soon I'm going to have to go and hide under an anti-spoiler rock until GRRM gets around to writing the last two books. I expect to be under that rock for a loooooooong time.
Unfortunately there is no deeper meaning or cool origin of my name. I was starting to play skyrim (7 or so years ago) and i typed "nikko" in the name bar, "Nikko882" was one of the suggested names (Nikko was taken, obviosly). And I looked upon it and though it had a nice tone to it (in norwegian it almost rhymes), the name has stuck with me ever since. (I googled it and on the front page there was 1 or 2 that was not me). Thus I became "Nikko882".
Er.. I think you're mixing Skyrim up with another game. Skyrim came out in 2011 and isn't online, so there wouldn't be taken names.
Anyways, five years ago I was nine, and I was making an email address (For some reason, considering I was nine). First letter of my first name + my last name + 9, because I was nine years old. The name stuck a while, and while I now dislike it it's my IGN for a lot of games.
0
Next time actually look at the date this was made before you post. It's from 2012.
0
And thus I have to get close to a record for Number of Individual Characters on One Server. This is... the fourth, I think.
Character Information
Name:
William Kaldur
Age:
37
Race:
Human
Physical description:
A tall and spare human of fair complexion, William gives off an air of cool confidence -- and, perhaps, a bit of condescension. His most distinguishing feature is an entirely bald head, though William does maintain a tidy beard and moustache. His eyes are chips of blue-gray ice, and his nose hooks slightly at its end. His face is almost constantly set in a frown.
Screen capture of your skin:
Biography:
William was born to a reasonably affluent family in the small holy province of St. Jessica. His father was a cleric of Pridans, god of strategy and love, and his mother was an artist of some renown who had designed, or had part in the design of, a number of the province's many, many cathedrals and similar constructions.
From his early childhood, of course, William knew he was destined for a similar path. Very few people of renown inhabited St. Jessica who were not involved with the clergy in some way, shape or form. In his adolescence the boy attended a theological school in which he learned of the gods in greater depth -- in particular, Saviesa and Thaer, though his father had encouraged him to devote his studies to Pridans.
In his younger days William traveled the Confederation and beyond, sharing food and faith with any who would take him -- conducting ceremonies, leading prayers, et cetera. At one point he had even dared, in the hubris of youth, to voyage to the Bheille in subtlety and secret to attempt to win back anyone who might be 'returned to the way of the gods.' As one might imagine, this endeavor ended with an escape by the skin of William's teeth, as he stowed away on a smuggling vessel in order to avoid a veritable angry mob.
From there William's theological voyages found him in Arturan, where he resided for several years as a liaison from the church of St. Jessica to the elves. It was during this time that he gained a fascination with the magic of the Arcanists -- and with it, a certain ambition. However, the elves were loathe to share any of their accumulated knowledge even with a respected envoy, and so William eventually resigned his position in frustration.
He returned to his home province and remained there for nearly a decade, caring for his now-elderly parents and taking up a respected position within the church.
However, just as things had begun to settle, word reached the mainland of an undead Scourge that had arrived in the holy islands of Enris, enveloping the island but for a small pocket of resistance. And there were other rumors as well, whispers of arcanists and witches and ancient magicks returned to the world after thousands of years. Eventually the Church elected that someone should be sent to serve as a link between it and Enris, and William -- with his considerable experience serving St. Jessica's interests within and without of the Confederation -- was chosen.
What is your character’s main goal? (Motivation):
To impart his theological and scholarly knowledge to the people of Enris should it help to fight the undead, to provide the people with one of rather few connections to the mainland, and to learn of the secretive and powerful magic that is said to be taught on the Isles once more.
Strengths (Both physical and personality):
- Intelligent, with a quick wit
- Well-educated and knowledgeable
- Reasonably persuasive and determined
- Somewhat wealthy
Weaknesses (Balance out yours character's strengths with suitable weaknesses. Not knowing how to do something that is outside of your class is not a weakness. I.E. Not knowing how to use a bow as a miner.):
- Little physical strength or endurance to speak of -- he is unused to physical labor
- Rather arrogant and stubborn
- Ambitious in the classical sense of the term; greedy and power-hungry
Bonus Language (Caro is free):
Arturan
Runic
Character Traits (up to 7 points worth):
- Follower of Saviesa: 2
- Follower of Thaer: 2
- Scholar: 2
- Savings I: 1
- Talent: Forgery
0
You're telling me. Now someone get to work reviewing people's new characters, please
0
The character is dead. Long live the character!
Character Information
Name:
Aspar Lascaris
Age:
33
Race:
Savage
Physical description:
A great bull of a man even in such 'advanced' age, Aspar is large and well-muscled. In his prime the man was no doubt handsome by Savage standards, but now his skin has a sickly greenish tint to it, and in places appears to be deteriorating. Aspar's eyes are a dark and bloodshot burgundy-red color, his hair thinning and gray -- though he still manages to maintain an impressive beard. He dresses primarily in light leather armors over simple cloth, and could frequently be seen with a bow in hand and a quiver on his back.
Screen capture of your skin:
Biography:
Aspar Lascaris was born deep in the heart of the Forlorn Lands of Horizon, the eldest son of the great war-chief Genseric Lascaris. His birth was within the tribe said to have been accompanied by a great thunderclap and the voice of Rhyfel himself from the heavens, but in reality the only truly unusual event that transpired at Aspar's birth was the death of his mother some two hours later.
Nonetheless he was a strong boy, and seemed destined for greatness. He took a liking at a young age to both the morningstar and the bow, and throughout his childhood and adolescence practiced almost incessantly with both. When Aspar was fourteen -- a teenager by human standards, but well into adulthood by Savage ones -- his father finally met his end at the age of thirty-seven, and Aspar took over the mantle of his tribe's leadership, and immediately embarked on a sizeable military campaign against the neighboring clans.
So things went for a number of years, as victorious campaign followed victorious campaign and more of the tribes were subjugated. Aspar sired nearly a dozen children in that time, all of whom were granted control over a portion of his lands in co-rulership. For some time it seemed almost as if he might manage to form a nation-state to compete with the Confederation, and perhaps to push its sympathizers out of Horizon once and for all.
But such things, of course, cannot be. As Aspar aged he grew weaker, and his children grew more quarrelsome. At the ripe age of thirty-three, as aches began to settle deep into his bones, Aspar saw an alternative to ending his days mediating his ambitious offspring -- rumor had arrived of a rising of undead in faraway Enris. So he departed on horseback with a dozen of his most trusted riders, and they set off across the sprawling expanse with the goal of hiring a ship at Beschwall.
The journey was not kind, however. None of Aspar's party knew more than a spattering of Caro, and only a few had ever even glimpsed the sea. After a number of frustrating barriers, they finally managed to negotiate passage and a stop in Enris onboard a ship bound for Rinion.
The seas were not kind either, sadly, and a rogue storm off the coast of the Kingdom saw the ship dashed on Enris' shore some few leagues from Thaeron. Aspar, one of few survivors, gathered those remaining and set off along the coast, fighting or fleeing from the undead as they fell upon the group. In the end Aspar was the only man to make it to the city with his life, and spent some time just outside the town tending to his wounds and watching the city before taking the final steps through the gates.
What is your character’s main goal? (Motivation):
To find an honorable end to his days drinking, wenching and combating the undead.
Strengths (Both physical and personality):
- Physically strong and somewhat agile
- Skilled with blunt and ranged weapons
- Good leadership skills, provided anyone would listen to him
- Remarkable endurance
Weaknesses (Balance out yours character's strengths with suitable weaknesses. Not knowing how to do something that is outside of your class is not a weakness. I.E. Not knowing how to use a bow as a miner.):
- Gradually beginning to deteriorate from age
- Knows only a small smattering of Caro
- Very disdainful of non-Savage races
- Boisterous and arrogant
Bonus Language (Caro is free):
Savage
Character Traits (up to 7 points worth):
- Ranged Weapons Proficency: 1
- Barrage: 1
- Ammunition Conservationist: 1
- Ranged Conditioning: 1
- Light Armor Proficiency: 1
- Simple Weapons Proficiency: 1
- Second Wind: 1
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As it turns out, Enris has little need of those who walk the middle path when people of both the more extreme paths are readily available. Consider this take two; i expect it to be much more interesting to play. OOC section not included because I was already accepted before, and nothing OOC has really changed since then.
---
Character Information
Name:
Roparzh mac Alan / 'Robert the Bold' / 'Robert the Pilgrim'
Age:
43
Race:
Human
Physical description:
A lean yet stern-looking Breton of average stature and brown hair beginning to gray. He has a rather impressive if unkempt beard and similarly-colored eyes. Though he gives off an air of near-constant weariness, there is also a bright -- almost feverish -- glint that is almost constantly present in his eyes. As far as clothing is concerned Robert dresses in a mix of different clothes -- a commoner's traveling cloak over a slightly more impressive-looking red surcoat and some odd smatterings of chain, scale and leather armor. Near-constantly present in one hand or slung on his back is an aged-looking but sturdy quarterstaff.
Screen capture of your skin (I recommend uploading to imgur and posting link here):
http://imgur.com/jIao0vZ
Biography (Minimum 225 words. Most very fleshed-out characters have around 300, but feel free to use even more than that if you wish. Try and avoid clichés such as loved one being killed by bandits or the like):
'Robert the Pilgrim' was born Roparzh, son of Alan, in one of the more populated Mistlander settlements -- that is to say that on a good day and with a deal of squinting, one could look into the distance and just see the edge of the neighbors' farms. Roparzh's father was the small hamlet's only blacksmith and a mediocre one at that, making his living hammering out scythes and nails. His mother and his elder brothers busied themselves on the family's farms as they struggled to bring forth turnips from the peaty soil of the Mistlands' bogs.
While many, or indeed most, of the people of the Mistlands were content to spend their lives toiling away in the swamps of the kingdom, Roparzh dreamed of something more, and found himself coming to detest his life in the Mistlands. These feelings were only elevated by the rare arrival of a small trade convoy passing through to the King's keep. As the merchants stopped to rest in the village, Roparzh -- then perhaps fourteen years of age -- whittled out of them tales of riches unheard of in the lands to -- well, to any direction that led out of the moors, really.
After several months of anticipation and silent deliberation, the merchants passed through once more on their return trip from peddling their wares to the King. In the early morning before the day that they would leave the town again Roparzh stole a meager coin purse from his father and offered it to the caravan head to take him to the Crownlands. Though the merchants were none too fond of the idea of smuggling an adolescent Mistlander out of the bogs, with enough arguments and clanking of coin they were eventually convinced.
Upon arrival in the Crownlands, Roparzh was confirmed in his hopes that the fief would be all that he had dreamed of and more -- the number of people in the capital alone must have been twice the entire population of the Mistlands, and the Emperor of Man's palace worth more than all that had ever been produced in his homelands. But after a few days of awe the hunger pangs began to set in, and Roparzh realized that he was an illiterate boy who had fled from his only family to a land that didn't even speak his language.
Lost, starving and impoverished, Roparzh turned to what was truly the only option -- petty thievery. Always a light boy on his feet, he stole potatoes and apples and haunches of venison while the merchants were distracted. More often than not he was caught in the act and thrown in a musty cell or orphanage for a short time, but the important part was that he was able to choke down some food first. He even managed to learn a few words of Caro -- primarily how to say "Look over there!" and to flee when the merchants shouted "You rancid thieving swine! Guards!"
And so things continued for several years, untill Roparzh came of age and found himself drawn to the plazas where recruiters gathered men to sell their swords against various insurrections and Savage tribes. Though by then he still could hardly understand one word of Caro in three, Roparzh managed to get enough words across to join a mercenary company under the more cosmopolitan name of Robert.
Though before this 'Robert' had never once held more than crude cutlery he was eager to earn his keep, and soon found himself mastering the finer points of a large, ugly mace. He trained with it as the months passed and the company marched eastward, and in his first skirmish Robert managed to distinguish himself, and earn the nickname 'Robert the Bold', by fighting with reckless abandon and managing to cave in the skulls of a few unruly Savage tribesmen in the process.
And so things continued for quite a few years, though Robert learned to temper his bravery quickly enough -- after all, as the saying goes, there are bold sellswords and then there are old sellswords. His company continued a number of campaigns on behalf of the Confederation in the heartlands of Horizon, subjugating Savage tribes who would just as quickly rise up once they had left. He also learned the working of the Caro language from his brothers-in-arms, until he could speak with an almost-natural fluency.
But all luck must turn eventually, and all that it took was a federation of Savage tribes to gather themselves and attack the company in earnest for things to fall apart. Though the fighting at first seemed in their favor the Savages fell on the company from behind and tore through its ranks in a bloody massacre.
After the carnage had ended, word began to reach the survivors in their scattered encampments that men were attempting to regroup under the leadership of one of the company's few surviving commanders. But rather than re-assemble and line up once more for slaughter, Robert and a few of his companions instead abandoned their contracts to desert the company. The pain of desertion was death, as they well knew, but execution would surely be more humane than what the Savages would do if they fell upon Robert's comrades again.
And so they set out upon the road with little but their cloaks and their swords, intending to simply return to the Crownlands and hope that nobody else from the company made it back to give word of their desertion. After weeks on the road, however, their goals switched to the short-term ideal of avoiding starvation . There was little possibility of hunting, armed with maces and clubs and shortswords as they were, so instead they subsisted off of little but roots and berried before finally reaching a slightly more populated area of the Confederation. And then, truly desperate, Robert and his band attacked a small group of traders -- not even a caravan, just a few men and their mules -- and stole their goods.
But none of the group could bring themselves to kill the merchants, and so they let the men go. This meant that word would spread quickly enough, and they were well and truly known outlaws now. This resulted in a cruel cycle of the band being forced to hide out in the wilderness, then robbing those who ventured out to sustain themselves. After a few robberies, banditry simply became a way of life.
All of this was ruined, of course, when a contingent of guards finally tracked Robert and his comrades to the cave in which they'd been hiding. Several of his friends resisted more stubbornly and were killed, but Robert, hungry and tired, gave in almost meekly.
And so began the long trek back to the Crownlands and the nearest real prison, for the ragged band had looked so desperate that even the townspeople could hardly bring themselves to call for a hanging. So instead Robert was simple hauled to a dark cell and left to rot for several years.
About midway through this stay in prison, Robert's sanity broke a bit -- or, as he considered it, he came to have a revelation. He saw a great spawling field of dead grass, its earth soaked with tar and blood. He saw a sea, and on it a small grouping of islands, struggling as waves reached higher and higher. He glimped men -- but not men, the dead, the undead -- swarm the walls of a once-proud city.
When he awoke after nearly two days of sleep in his musty cell, Robert became a changed man. He spent hours each day praying loud prayers to gods he had only known vaguely, the half-memorized words of his childhood, the cynical mutters that the sellsword spoke under his breath before battle, long rambling speeches that originated in his half-broken mind when the first two had all been spoken a hundred times over.
And after his involuntary stay in prison had ended Robert walked out of the prison and swapped his old mercenary's mace for a staff. He made one last journey southward, to the bogs and brothers who seemed strangers and two graves atop a foggy hill, and then he spent the last of his meager coin on passage to Thaeron.
What is your character’s main goal? (Motivation):
To aid the righteous of Enris in their crusade against the undead through word and action and prayer.
Strengths (Both physical and personality):
- Smarter than average -- not particularly wise, but with a good head on his shoulders.
- Utterly devoted to his cause
- Reasonably charismatic and empathetic
Weaknesses (Balance out yours character's strengths with suitable weaknesses. Not knowing how to do something that is outside of your class is not a weakness. I.E. Not knowing how to use a bow as a miner.):
- Socially, just about one class above your average street beggar
- Still not quite] sound in the head
- Somewhat limited understanding even of Caro beyond conversational
- Wearied and worn-down physically as well as mentally, his mind and muscles somewhat blunted from time in prison
Bonus Language (Caro is free):
Mistlander
Character Traits (up to 7 points worth):
2 - Follower of Thaer
1 - Light Armor Proficiency
1 - Medium Armor Proficiency
1 - Simple Weapons Proficiency
1 - Fleet I
1 - Danger Sense
0 - Orator (Talented)
0
I'd be interesting to see an updated trait-tally.
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I'd have reposted it if there had been a lot of replies or time in between the deferral and the editing, but I didn't think it was necessary. Regardless, here it is again, fixed:
DeltaV_
Sure. My Skype username is 'delt4v'.
Yes.
Powergaming is usually defined as not allowing other people to react to your character's actions. An example might be "Gary Stu draws his sword and cleaves in the head of John Smith, killing him!" where the proper emote would be "Gary Stu draws his sword and swings it at John Smith's head!"
Metagaming is using out-of-character knowledge to benefit yourself in-character. An example would be using your knowledge of Minecraft crafting recipes to make yourself a sword even though your character knows nothing about smithing.
Roleplay is, essentially, 'playing the role' of a fictional character in a game or on a forum.
No one. Well, I guess maybe the admins could use x-ray if they liked, but I doubt that there would be much point.
When the person playing that character gives consent for their character to die.
In the OOC channel, or if you must in local chat then by surrounding it with brackets [[ ]], parenthesis (( )) or something similar.
I've been roleplaying (badly, at first) in some capacity since I was eight or nine years old, mostly on forums. For the last several years I've been doing Minecraft RP on-and-off (Minecraft RP servers tend to be a gamble as to whether the RP is decent). I think I've played on one or two Silver Gaming servers, though sadly not for any long period of time.
Harek 'One-Eye' Eiriksson
53
Human
If there was one word to describe Harek, it might be 'great' -- he stands at well over six feet, with a burly stature and appearance. He is well-muscled and fit despite his age, owing to most of a lifetime of physical exertion. HIs face is weathered and scarred, with a small but bushy beard and a mane of similarly-colored hair. One of his eyes is blinded as a result of a mishap involving an axe to the face, and the skin around said eye still bears a messy jagged scar from the same incident.
http://imgur.com/ojjGilG
While the people of Norland have ostensibly sworn allegiance to the Cordolan Confederation, and are thus supposedly deterred from the raiding and reaving of their ancestors, the politics of the continent matter little to the people and the traditions of the northern wastes. As such, while the greater powers of Norland have in theory outlawed such practices, these laws are hardly, if ever, enforced. It is one of these more 'traditional' Norlander tribes that Harek Eiriksson was born. The harsh weather and thin soil of the lands which he called home could hardly support the farming of crops, and so from the time Harek could hold an axe he was taught in the intricacies and the art of combat. When he came of age Harek was recruited onto one of several longships, and they set out for the Savage lands to take what they could not grow. Such raids were always quick and messy, filled with the ringing of axe and sword until the surviving Savages fled or the raiders returned to their longboats. These combats were Harek's lifeblood -- he would work himself into a frenzy, more beast than man, striking down any man foolish enough to face him.
To combat the recent resurgence of undead on the islands, to do something worthwhile with his last years, and, if possible, to make coin in the process.
- Physically powerful
- Skilled with many melee weapons
- Able to work himself into a berserk rage in combat
- Reasonably skilled blacksmith, able to forge and shape most metals
- Little sense of fear
- Little in the way of formal education
- Hot temper
- Very impulsive and occasionally bull-headed
Harek could be described as a simple man of simple tastes. There are a few things he enjoys in life: The aching of muscles after a day of work, the adrenaline-rush of close combat, the weight of a helm on his head and an axe in his hand. He holds a certain disdain for the people of other races and cultures, many of whom he regards as cravens or fools as they toil in their fields for what could be taken with strength. He is quick to get angry and slow to forigive, and holds little respect for those he deems unworthy of it (read: anyone who hasn't explicitly proven themselves to him).
Savage
Basic Smith - 3
Simple Weapons Proficiency - 1
Martial Weapons Proficiency - 1
Light Armor Proficiency - 1
Blinding Rage - 1
Talented - Heavy Drinker
0
Edited my application just a bit.
0
DeltaV_
Sure. My Skype username is 'delt4v'.
Yes.
Powergaming is usually defined as not allowing other people to react to your character's actions. An example might be "Gary Stu draws his sword and cleaves in the head of John Smith, killing him!" where the proper emote would be "Gary Stu draws his sword and swings it at John Smith's head!"
Metagaming is using out-of-character knowledge to benefit yourself in-character. An example would be using your knowledge of Minecraft crafting recipes to make yourself a sword even though your character knows nothing about smithing.
Roleplay is, essentially, 'playing the role' of a fictional character in a game or on a forum.
No one. Well, I guess maybe the admins could use x-ray if they liked, but I doubt that there would be much point.
When the person playing that character gives consent for their character to die.
In the OOC channel, or if you must in local chat then by surrounding it with brackets [[ ]], parenthesis (( )) or something similar.
I've been roleplaying (badly, at first) in some capacity since I was eight or nine years old, mostly on forums. For the last several years I've been doing Minecraft RP on-and-off (Minecraft RP servers tend to be a gamble as to whether the RP is decent). I think I've played on one or two Silver Gaming servers, though sadly not for any long period of time.
Harek 'One-Eye' Eiriksson
53
Human
If there was one word to describe Harek, it might be 'great' -- he stands at well over six feet, with a burly stature and appearance. He is well-muscled and fit despite his age, owing to most of a lifetime of physical exertion. HIs face is weathered and scarred, with a small but bushy beard and a mane of similarly-colored hair. One of his eyes is blinded as a result of a mishap involving an axe to the face, and the skin around said eye still bears a messy jagged scar from the same incident.
http://imgur.com/ojjGilG
While the people of Norland have ostensibly sworn allegiance to the Cordolan Confederation, and are thus supposedly deterred from the raiding and reaving of their ancestors, the politics of the continent matter little to the people and the traditions of the northern wastes. As such, while the greater powers of Norland have in theory outlawed such practices, these laws are hardly, if ever, enforced. It is one of these more 'traditional' Norlander tribes that Harek Eiriksson was born. The harsh weather and thin soil of the lands which he called home could hardly support the farming of crops, and so from the time Harek could hold an axe he was taught in the intricacies and the art of combat. When he came of age Harek was recruited onto one of several longships, and they set out for the Savage lands to take what they could not grow. Such raids were always quick and messy, filled with the ringing of axe and sword until the surviving Savages fled or the raiders returned to their longboats. These combats were Harek's lifeblood -- he would work himself into a frenzy, more beast than man, striking down any man foolish enough to face him.
To combat the recent resurgence of undead on the islands, to do something worthwhile with his last years, and, if possible, to make coin in the process.
- Physically powerful
- Skilled with many melee weapons
- Able to work himself into a berserk rage in combat
- Reasonably skilled blacksmith, able to forge and shape most metals
- Little sense of fear
- Little in the way of formal education
- Hot temper
- Very impulsive and occasionally bull-headed
Harek could be described as a simple man of simple tastes. There are a few things he enjoys in life: The aching of muscles after a day of work, the adrenaline-rush of close combat, the weight of a helm on his head and an axe in his hand. He holds a certain disdain for the people of other races and cultures, many of whom he regards as cravens or fools as they toil in their fields for what could be taken with strength. He is quick to get angry and slow to forigive, and holds little respect for those he deems unworthy of it (read: anyone who hasn't explicitly proven themselves to him).
Savage
Basic Smith - 3
Simple Weapons Proficiency - 1
Martial Weapons Proficiency - 1
Light Armor Proficiency - 1
Blinding Rage - 1
Talented - Heavy Drinker
1
Great server, lots of fun with plenty of experienced roleplayers and interesting characters, as well as incredibly active admins and tons of events. The only thing it's lacking is more people, so join now!
0
Can confirm, was fun with people online.
0
Very empty server. It might be interesting if I ever saw anyone online.
0
My desktop is completely empty.
0
I know. It was a joke.
0
Game of Thrones is great, but soon I'm going to have to go and hide under an anti-spoiler rock until GRRM gets around to writing the last two books. I expect to be under that rock for a loooooooong time.