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Post by Lady Whimsy on Apr 29, 2009 13:51:10 GMT -5
Hey Guys! A NEW version of the Guide is now hosted on our website! Come visit us there www.kalidore.com/?page_id=319
Everything You Needed to Know About RPing in Kalidore
Welcome to Kalidore! DON’T PANIC Greetings! If you’re reading this page, that means you’ve stumbled into Kalidore and are deep enough through a Portal Gate that you’ve decided to stick around a while, have some cookies, and maybe even join in an RP. At first glance, “jumping in” might seem daunting, even overwhelming, but we’re here to reassure you: everyone is welcomed, no previous experience is necessary, and, if you need us, we’re here to walk you through every step of the way. Plus, there are always cookies, and that is certainly a perk We hope this guide will you navigate your first few days around the isle. As always, if you have questions, just ask. We’re a very friendly and chatty bunch, and are here to help. Hope you enjoy your stay, and – see you in Kaldiore! Your Guardians of Kalidore, Lady Whimsy & Lady Everlasting
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Apr 29, 2009 13:52:05 GMT -5
First, the Basics.• We are a fantasy-based equine online adoptable run through Pony Island and the Kalidore Forums. We also have a rich role playing component; you do not need to own an adoptable to participate in the RPs. • Main role playing/meta plot events take place on the forms, though occasionally mini rp games happen on PI. Our RP’s tend to be in-depth and quite detailed, but this is certainly not a requirement and we have participants of all different ages and writing abilities. We are rated PG-13. • The stories played out are fantasy based, rich in magic and myth, and cover a wide (and growing!) range of playable character types – and more are being added all the time as the Kalidore universe continues to grow! • RP’s are ongoing and can be joined at ANY TIME. If you’re not sure how, or would like a synopsis of the story so, just drop us a line and we’ll be happy to help. Old RP stories are stored in our Library, so feel free to check them out. • Our RP thrives on your interaction – so the more you put into it and interact with other people and the environment, the more rewarding the experience will be. Plus, there are usually great prized to be won! • Your hosts are Lady Whimsy and Lady Everlasting, who are eager to make your time in Kalidore as enjoyable as possible. Any questions whatsoever – just ask! – that’s what they’re there for • Basic rp’ing rules can be found >here<
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Apr 29, 2009 13:53:06 GMT -5
What in the World is Kalidore?Kalidore is known as the Isle beyond the mists, akin to such magical places as Avalon or the Faerie Kingdom. It lies just beyond the realm of our world, but remains tucked just out of sight. Travel to the isle is possible through mystical portals called Gates, which can be stumbled through by chance, or summoned by the most potent of magical users. Geographically Speaking: Kalidore is a sprawling place, crowned by great mountains which flow into the deep and rich forests of Kaledon, vast rolling plains spread to the south and the isle is surrounded by the gentle Tyressline Sea. Climate varies somewhat from region to region, but for the most part it is a temperate environment, with the most extreme weather to be found in the Skyfields (including some distinctly tropical niches). Click to enlarge the maps below: Flora & Flauna:The Isle is home to a host of creatures both familiar and the stuff of myths. The principal population is mammalian, with a fair share of small insects of all descriptions. Reptiles and amphibians make up a small niche, and birds of all kinds inhabit land, air, and sea. Griffons are commonplace and woolly mammoth can often be spotted in the Skyfield valleys. As well, Kalidore has a rich and varied plant kingdom; a discussion of interesting Kalidorian flora and fauna can be found >here< Here There Be Unicorns:It is also the home of the Unicorns of Kalidore, the decedents of the first Unicorns, Kala and Kaëdon. These majestic creatures have little in common with the equine counterparts of earth, and have a rich history and culture. They are the governing body on the Isle, considering themselves responsible for the well-being of all its creatures, and from time to time parlay with the worlds beyond Isle, too. The story of how Kal created the created the world can be found >here< Beyond Kalidore:Kalidore is only one small world in a bustling and diverse cosmos. Firstly, it has two moons, Luna – which it shares with Earth, and Kylindreal – the Dragon Moon, which is more accurately a sister to Kalidore then it is a moon. Kylindreal is home to the ancient race of the Dragon, who share a colourful and varied history with Kal and the rest of the universe. Earth is always close at hand, and the two worlds remain linked, and is the birthplace of most of Kalidore’s companions – those humans, who having bonded with a Unicorn, and have begun to unlock their magical potential. The oldest Gates have linked these two worlds since time immemorial, and they share many commonalities. Mirroring Kalidore’s connection with earth is the Elven Kingdom, which has a similar parallels with its sister world. It is probably the most familiar world to Kalidore, and strong commerce once existed between the two. Currently, the worlds are in the process of rekindling these bonds, especially as the humanoid population on Kalidore continues to grow. Many other worlds exist – they lie beyond the Gates, waiting to be re-met, discovered, and explored. A myriad of people and cultures await there too, but are they friendly or foe? That remains to be seen…
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Apr 29, 2009 13:54:25 GMT -5
It’s all about CharacterOne of the most important things in any RP is having a interesting, engaging, and well-thought-out character to romp around and play in the world. On Kalidore, there are several defined races and more will be added as we reach them in course of the story. There are a few restrictions on certain races, but hopefully this will not deter you from creating and building a character you truly enjoy. As always, if you have questions – just ask – we’re here to help! Character Profile forms can be found >here< We ask you to take your time and create a unique character who both appeals to you and works within the Kalidore paradigm. Due avoid creating yourself a > Mary Sue< as these kinds of characters can be very annoying to deal with, and tend to remain cliché and one-dimensional. Different character types also have different sensitivities to magic, which determines their overall magical potential. You can find more information about Kalidorian Magic >here< Current Kalidorian Character RacesHumans – the most diverse of the races, and a character of choice; if you say rp’ing a human is boring, then you’re not doing it right, lol. Not only are they among the most versatile, on Kalidore they have great magical potential when bonded with a unicorn. Because of the portal Gates, which open Kalidore to the rest of world, your human character can come from any era. And while it’s certainly acceptable to romanticize somewhat, we recommend doing a little research on your era of choice, to help create a realistic and balanced character. Unicorns – the children of Kala and Kaedon, unicorns are essentially good and represent. This is not to say they don’t have a range of different personalities – for they do, but there is a definite gentleness about them, a reflective quality, and drive to uphold the greater good. You may only RP unicorns you own; if you haven’t a unicorn – don’t worries, you may rp as another race, or obtain a unicorn in one of the many Kalidore games and events – even, win won through your participation here! Elves – while physically quite like humans, elves are culturally rather distinct; they are proud race and tend to be emotionally cool, keeping to themselves and avoiding outside conflict. Elves also have innate magic, though skill varies from individual. The elves will be introduced in RP3; more information about elves >here<Dragons – personality wise, dragons are most similar to humans then the other races, which means they have a wide range of passions, interests, and egos. They also posses celestial magic, the most coveted and powerful of magic, though there is a great range of abilities and skills. Because they have the potential to be so powerful, dragons characters are scarce and are allowed only pending approval. Other/animal – there are many sentient races on Kalidore, including the wolves and skyfield griffons. Each creature has it has its unique strengths and weakness, beliefs, and cultural traditions, so make sure you know what you’re getting into. Please ping us for more information and character approval. Other/humanoid – as the Kalidore universe expands, new cultures will be “discovered”. Stay tuned!
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Apr 29, 2009 13:55:33 GMT -5
The Magic of Kalidore Essentially, by being companion'd with a unicorn, a human can tap into their magical potential. Magic is gained through participation in the RP. Lady Everlasting or Lady Whimsy will let you know when your character has leveled up
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There is much magic in the universe, though it’s known by different names to different cultures, it is an underlying force that binds us all, and when harnessed, can grant the user exponential potential. Magic effects each race a little differently, and within each race the ability to use it varies greatly. Unicorns are unique in the universe in that they are magic – they create and hold it within themselves, and bring magic into a place simply by their being there. They are true Celestial beings; they are potential personified. However, they are also virtually unable to use any of it themselves, except in passive ways (healing, purification, shielding). That is the purpose behind companions. Humans, of all the races, hold an immense magical potential. Yet, they are virtually magically blind and seem unable to focus it. Without this magical susceptibility they are more stable then, say elves, but without the ability to harness it there's not much they can do on their own. Pairing with a unicorn does two-fold - it enables humans to tap into the magic and unlock their potential, as well as providing them with source; thus, an aptly trained unicorn and companion pair is one of the most formidable forces in the universe. The types of magic a human companion is able to use can be categorized into for elementals – Air, Water, Earth, and Fire. It is possible that a human might be able to tap into more then one kind, but if he or she wants to achieve any proficiency, it’s best to focus on one. Each type of magic is suited to a certain kind of person, and has its own vulnerabilities and boons. While not every human is equal when it comes to magic-wielding ability, it seems the very best can are limited only by skill and their imagination! Types of Magic
Air – Element of the Mind Psoinic/ awareness - activeAir Magic can be quite impressive in the hands of a skilled user. They can also be invasive, thus must be used with diligence and care. A wielder of this kind of magic must first be strong in mind and body and competent in their own defenses, as some forms of practice can leave the mind vulnerable to others, if the use is not careful. A mind, after all, is such a terrible thing to loose... - telepathy/communication - mind-reading - thought suggestion - mind control - scrying/far-sight - astral projection - dream manipulation - visions (real-time) - telekinesis Example of this type of user: Liliani Water – Element of the Heart Sensory/ awareness - receptiveWater Magic is subtle power, but with big results. It is similar to Air Magic, but deals with things on a more innate level, although often the immediate results are not as clear. This powerful magic requires a calm soul and the ability to keep oneself grounded, for it can at times be overwhelming and draining. It is also important to maintain control, because it's easy to get swept away... - empathy & detection of true feeling/motives - heightened sensory sensitivities - receptive to visions, messages - clairvoyance/premonitions - awareness of subtle energies/magic - ability to see/feel auras - lucid dreaming - healing/restoring balance Example of this type of user: RhaineEarth – Element of the Body Physical/ Creative - stableEarth Magic is an old magic. It’s a creative magic too, and a skilled user can have profound results – earth-shattering, even! At the same time it works with divine subtly, as softly as whispering to the flowers into bloom. Earth magic is the most stable of the elemental forms, but one should still remain proactive and keep healthy and balanced while in its practice. - enhance/growth/decay of plant life - weather, natural elements - gravity, magnetism/polarity - tectonics, atmosphere - electricity, light (more to come) Fire – Element of the Soul Catalyst/ Creative – unstableFire Magic is potent and fierce, but amazingly versatile and nimble. It is a creative force personified, and uses what around to full potential. In fact, it’s often been said that Fire Magic brings potential into being; indeed, a skilled user seems sometimes to know no bounds! However, something so fluid and enveloping can be very seductive, and users of this magic type must work to stay focused and retain control. - produces things from other things (ie, fire/heat) - metals/compounds/chemicals/alterations - changing and manipulation of said elements - inventing and revisiting - near alchemy - illusions/wizardry - charisma/proficiency (more to come) Celestial – Elemental Magic Divine Creativity, unboundCelestial Magic is the breath of the gods; it is endless, creative, and unbound. It is the sum of all the earthly elements combined, drawing and swelling them to godly proportions. It is also the only magic able to create something from nothing, life from dust; it is a hugely expansive kind of power, and as the course of history has shown, is probably best left to the gods. Note: Some users of each magic type can achieve talent of Celestial scale, but this is extremely rare in most races, with the exception of a few. That said, even races who boast users of this magical caliber, it is similarly uncommon that they would have the full range of celestial powers. - creation of gates - teleportation - conjuring - true alchemy - shape shifting - immortality - gift of life (more information to come) Other Magical Notes: The GatesKnown by many names to many cultures, the Gates – also called portals, star gates, world gates, heaven’s eye, thrown of the gods – are mystical, mysterious entities that are as old as the universe itself. Some say they were born when the universe itself was made, others say they were the work of the first gods. Some even believe the Gates to be entities unto themselves – living, breathing, and sentient – and in turn gave birth to the universe. Despite all the stories surrounding them, a Gate itself is a simple enough thing: it is a fixed spot in the universe that transcends space and time. Creatures and objects can pass through these gates-portals and travel from one place to a next, or even another time. Gates are grounded in old magic, which is why on earth they tend to manifest around the base of old of trees, taping the magic through their roots Gates are fickle creatures; now you see them, now you don’t. Some are always present – called Fixed Gates, and used by many races as a means of transport – but most tend to wander, fading in and out, they scuttle and shift. Some last only a breath, others linger; invoking a gate gives it stability, and it thus possible to return to the same gate point over the years (or even centuries) before it decides to completely shimmer away. Gates are both naturally occurring and can be created/summoned; it is considered one of the most sacred of magics to summon a wandering gate, and a mark of divine right if the gate actually listens to you! Gates like magic, and tend to occur more around places magically inclined. In is prime, Kalidore hosted many gates; currently, they are beginning to emerge again. And, with the blanketing spell now lifted, it’s a good bet that things will not remained so isolated on the misty isle… Spells & ScrollsWhile most magic used by an individual is classified by type, there are certain ways to get around magical limitations. One way is through the use of Spells. A spell is word or phrase that evokes the core element of that word or object, and gives the user power over it. They are generally made out in the First Language (the language of the gods) but each race will have its own variations. The elves claim to have first honed the art and perfected it, and while elves are certainly very clever with their wealth of spells, there’s no real proof to substantiate their claim; they still like to boast, however. It is also a little known fact that Unicorns have a store of spell-scrolls too; most are safely stored away by Muse in the Temple Library. Thus, while unicorns can’t actively use their magic, they can evoke spells – but it is such a lost and dying art that there’s very few unicorns around today who are both knowledgeable and capable of using them.
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Apr 29, 2009 13:58:16 GMT -5
Who’s Who in KaldioreThe are a few principal characters in Kalidore who are handy to know, since they act as host and help to guide you through each adventure. If you would like to browse through current rp characters, a full character directory can be found >here<The People ~Rhaine is currently one of the apprenticing Guardians of Kalidore. She is companion to Muse, and resides with her in the Temple, where all the books of Kalidore are housed. She is a practicing scribe, and works to translate the many books and scrolls into other languages, so that the stories and knowledge of the past might be passed on and enjoyed by all. She is also a talented healer, and has a natural affinity with the Gates. >Profile Here<Lilaini is also apprenticing Guardian of Kalidore, and along with her companion Gypsy, makes it her business to know what’s happening on the isle. > Profile HERE< Tyden may not be a Guardian in title, but with his assumptions of duties one could consider that merely an oversight. He is Odin’s companion, and one of the few people to call Kalidore his natural home. While not particularly magically talented, he is first and foremost a diplomat, and makes a fine ambassador of Kalidore as the Gates open the Isle up to the rest of the world. >Profile Here< and >Here<. The Daiga is the First Companion, brought to Kalidore eons ago by Kala herself. She has been Guardian of the Isle since time immemorial, and is a wise and insatiably kind soul. A patient yet demanding teacher, she has been training Rhaine and Lilaini since their arrivals. The Daiga knows a great many things about the universe, but lets people discover those truths only when it is thier time. She is the Keeper of Knowledge and Guardian of the World, and known far and wide as Mother of All. The Unicorns ~Gypsy is a helper of all. She travels Kalidore seeking those who have lost their way or those in need of her assistance. She is caring and understanding, but also passionate and loyal, and a commanding presence. Her patience with the young and the needy is almost limitless but she is very passionate and as a result she doesn't tolerate incivility or intolerance very well. She is bonded to Lilani, and together the care for all creatures of the Isle. Muse is Keeper of the Temple – the Great Library, where all the books of Kalidore are housed. As Rhaine's companion, they share certain sense of whimsy and optimism, and are both are gentle souls. Muse must spend a lot of her time on Kalidore tending to her duties however, so Rhaine is often seen in the company of another unicorn, Mare Imbrium. Mare Imbrium is known throughout the isle and beyond; the enigmatic mare is somewhat of a recluse, coming and going from the Isle like the faces of the moon. As Odin's twin sister, she shares his duty to watch over Kalidore and it's people, a responsibility she takes very seriously. At times she is a somewhat distant, as if echos of old memories haunt her even in these happier times, but possesses a warm tenderness towards those she cares about. >Profile Here<Odin, sometimes called the Dawn Stallion, is he who watches over the world. And while it may seem he does this mostly from a distance, he is always there, just behind the scenes. His domain is the Skyfields, and he is companion to Tyden. >Page Here<[yellow]Falling Star[/yellow] is the spotted stallion of the Great Plains, a keeper of stories and gentle teacher to the isle's kors. This cheerful, soft-spoken stallion is well-loved and approachable, making himself available to anyone who needs his guidance. >Page Here<[yellow]Arieon[/yellow], as the youngest of the Foundation Stallions, is occasionally impulsive, and perhaps, just a little bit... indulgent. After all, he is fabulous and knows it! Digressions aside, Arieon wears his heart on his sleeve and is fiercely loyal to Kalidore and its people. >Page Here<
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Apr 29, 2009 14:08:59 GMT -5
The Story So FarThe story of Kalidore is always growing and expanding, so now is the perfect time to join in and help shape the world. If you’d like to know what’s happened so far, you might enjoy reading our previous RP adventures. They have been formatted into handy text documents for readability, and are quite a blast – at least, we sure had fun writing them! If you’re not up for all that reading, but still want to know what’s going on, here is a brief synopsis of the story so far. And as always, if you have questions, just ask – we’re more then happy to help bring you up to speed The Unicorns of Kalidore "...The world was born, they say, when a pebble caught in Kal's hoof and she shook it free. Away it went spinning across the sky, growing until it was the size of a small moon. Delighted, Kala raced along side, making it spin faster and faster as it continued to grow. When at last she was tired, the world was big enough for her feet to rest upon the ground. She gazed across the vast escape and was pleased with what she saw. She breathed over the earth, the first breath, the life-wind, and it blew through the lands to the furthest corners of the globe. Everything it touched sprang to life, bloomed thick and lush, sweet and green. Kala, mother of all, settled into the warm green grass to sleep and dream of life to come..."In the Beginning... >The Story of Kala and Kaedon< Prelude:In the beginning, they say, Kal created the universe when she parted the chaos and brought forth order and light. She had been given the gift of dawn – the power to create and build and grow, and the universe blossomed around her; to this day all Unicorns share that vital spark, the drive to help and heal, bringing light and magic into the world simply by their being there. The Dragons, who arrived with Kal, were given another gift, a potent gift, the power of dusk – the ability not only to create but to destroy. And while they vowed to use such power wisely, it remained before them a Pandora ’s Box, waiting to be opened… So it came to pass long, long ago, that the harmony of the universe was shattered when the Dragon Thaedor rose to power and sought to claim the all secrets of the universe for himself. As civilization after civilization fell, it was Kala who sought help in the most unlikely of places – the fledging planet earth, and chose a young human woman as her Companion. This bond created an unexpected boon, for while Unicorns are of the elemental magic, they cannot act on it, and humans, while holding unbound magical potential, could not seem to channeling it. Together, they create a great force – and untested force, powerful enough to match Thaedor’s own. Together, Kal and the Daiga defeated the mad King and closed Chaos’ Gate, and the universe returned to an era of peace. Thus Kalidore enjoyed a long period of quietude; in this time the unicorns and the isle flourished, and in the early days travel between other worlds was commonplace. Soon however, the age of myth began to fade and the one by one the Gates to closed, as if the universe had fallen gently asleep. The Daiga resided on Kalidore as both Guardian and Gate Keeper, and it was a great many years before other humans shared the isle with her. First was Tyden, who came to her an orphaned babe and she raised as her own grandchild; next was Rhaine, a young girl with an uncanny affinity to the Gates. Last but not least came Lilaini, who found her way into Kalidore of her own accord and showed great magical promise. The Diaga happily took them all under wing, and when the young women came of age, began training them as her apprentices…
RP 1 ~ Seeking A Companion: Full Version RP#1 – >Seeking a Companion<Synopsis:When the Daiga announces that certain challenges may lie in Kalidore’s future, the answer heralds an astonishing realization: unicorns the isle across have begun to feel the call – that restless and urgent summoning – to seek their Companions. As their first duty as acting Guardians, Lilaini and Rhaine summon a portal Gate to earth, which doesn’t quite go according to plan; finding themselves drained of magic on the otherside, they must then rely entirely on the unicorn’s perception and elusive, naturally occurring gates to lead them to the new companions. Sierra Rose finds her companion in the modern deserts of Nevada; Tyden, Firea, Spirit and Xanthe sneek off in the middle of the night to find Fiera’s young Alison, and through a happy mishap stumble across Spirit’s Lana in 1800th century Georgia on the way home. When the group reunites, little Aquila leads them to her companion among some pirates of the Caribbean, when suddenly Persephone implores that her companion needs their help – and now! In 16th century Ireland the Guardians and Tyden race to save Aislinn from the villagers who would have her burned at the stake for witchcraft. In their absence, the other unicorns and new companions and happened upon by a scouting party and are left to defend themselves. Pasiphae critically wounds one, the dutiful solider Liam, while her friends make a break for town; however, unable to leave him to die, the conflicted mare manages him onto her back and heads out after the others. Cornered by an angry mob and the sheer face of the sea, the guardians quickly realize they cannot reach the gate in time, and Mare Imbrium instructs Rhaine to summon another. At her urging the reluctant young woman does so, unlocking a huge and sprawling gate that not only allows for everyone’s safe return, but initiates ALL the Gates – the whole isle across and beyond – creating open passage across the universe for the first time in centuries. And so all return safely to Kalidore, and there are new companions again, and the isle once more lies open to world, to be found by those whose hearts seek it... It is a dawning of new era. RP2 ~ Ulysses' Odyssey ~ The story so far....Chapter One ~ The Harvest Ball Chapter Two ~ Into the Kaledon Chapter Three ~ The Skyfields Chapter 3.5 ~ Elsewhere Chapter Four ~ Ulysses Chapter Five ~ What Morning Brings Synopsis:The Unicorns and their Companions have set out into the vast, unexplored regions of the Skyfield Mountains in search of a newly arrived Son of Kaedon, the stallion Ulysses. It is the first time many of the human companions have ever been to Kalidore, seen magic, or had such an adventure ahead; the Guardians are confident however, and of course the Unicorns are there as both helpers and guides... Yet all is not well on the green, green isle; whispers of old wounds and old wars blow cold through the ethereal breeze, and unknown dangers lurk beyond the boundaries of known lands. What lays in waiting in that strange wilderness? And what dark secrets might our companions stumble upon in their quest? As the Dragon Moon rises over Kalidore, a lost son has found his way home - but is it too late?
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Jun 5, 2009 21:54:48 GMT -5
The Truth about Unicorns
Unicorns ARE… The Unicorns of Kalidore are an archaic and majestic people; they are the children of Kala and Kaedon, the children of the gods. Thus, while they enjoy a wide range of personalities and characteristics, there are key elements that tend to set unicorns apart from other peoples of the isle. It’s there for a good idea to keep these in mind when when you’re rping! Firstly: • they are unicorns, not horsesWhile they have equine bodies, they do not have equine minds. Horse-like gestures are fine - after all, they have equine bodies - how else *would* they gesture? It's more the horse-like intentions... snapping, biting, expecting them to act as horses would... they are not horses, not in mind set. Unicorns are a braver, more resolute race; therefore, a lot of the fear-bases responses that horses have are not present. Oh, they'll get moody and bare teeth, might even nip you soundly in frustration, but it's not the first response to every issue the way it is with some horses. Unicorns simply have a greater depth of character, and a richer repertoire of reactions; after all, unicorns use words Secondly: • they are unicorns, not humansWhile they certainly behave more “humanly” then “horsely”, it’s good to remember that the human experience has been shaped by culture and society, and belief system; the unicorns have had an independent existence, so do not necessarily harbour the same beliefs or moralities or have the same hang-ups. Their cultural experience is obviously quite different, and this is reflected in their way of doing things and reactions to the world. In general, unicorns are:• of the essence of goodness, and will stand up for the greater good • often rather zen-like in their beliefs and ways doing things • intuitive, passionate, reflective, be-ers, do-ers, easy-going, assertive, live to celebrate the marvel of the universe, existence, and everything else In other words, the typical unicorn is a content, well-balanced individual. This is not to say that they’re always happy, or don’t have their inner worries, doubts, or fears, or even that they’re all nice people (though the truly cranky unicorn is more an exception then a rule). They’re a good people, but still, well, people! Another aspect that affects how a unicorn will present itself is age. The Young Unicorn ~We are not particular about age consistencies in Kalidore, so you may choose play your Korè at whatever age you please, and grow them as you feel it appropriate to their character. Do note there are certain limitation with age, especially the very young, and act accordingly. The Kor ~ A unicorn foal is called a kor; a filly a korè (pronounced kor’ah) and colt a koros (pronounced kor’ose); the young kor is almost always at her mother’s side. Kors are curious, inquisitive, and love to explore – everything is a game, and everything is exciting and new. It’s important to remember that a kor, at best, has the mentality of a six-year-old child; they tier easily and can work themselves into quite a state when they get frustrated. They are still very dependent on their mothers and those around them, even if they think otherwise. It is not anticipated that such small kor would leave Kalidore, or participate in major events or quests, nor would mothers with young babes afoot consider tagging along either. Most of activity for the young kor happens in and around their homes on Kalidore. The Weanling ~ As a weanling, a unicorn’s bustling independence arises early, and in this stage the young unicorn feels ready to go out and explore the world beyond. Of course, they still need some looking after (even if they don’t agree!) and still rely on mother and other adults from which to take their cues. The typical Kore is comparable to human children between 8 and 12+ years of age; at this age their personally has begun to take shape, and while there still might be a lot of maturing ahead of them, it’s possible to see the kind of person the young unicorn will become. In general, unicorns have a love of learning and keep growing and expanding themselves no matter how old they are. After having been so sheltered on Kalidore all these years, it is not surprising that they may begin to entertain new concept and ideas as they meet and experience other cultures. Family Life ~Unicorns consider themselves one vast extended family, and greet each other as sisters and brothers – even if they are not directly related. Kors are raised chiefly by their mother, though are also cared for by the herd stallions, regardless of who their father is, and unicorns are generally aware of their lineage (simply because they do like history, not because any one line is better then the next! Because they are all children of Kala and Kaedon, inbreeding is not an issue either, much like the proverbial Adam and Eve). Perhaps the greatest difference between humans and unicorns is that unicorns do not pair-bond. As with horses of earth, the herd stallions are the Great Stallions of Kalidore who watch over the mares in their care; they don't pick favorites among mares and all kors are treated equal, regardless of parentage. They take their role very seriously and tend to stay within their domains while mares are left to travel freely throughout the isle; therefore it is the mare who chooses her stallion. And while there maybe a great deal of fondness and affection between individuals, unicorns do not become “romantically involved” with one another, nor do they have “crushes” or “fall hopelessly in love”. These are all chiefly human attributes, and while serve a purpose withijn the human condition, are not part of unicorn physiology. As for the young Koros, they are not considered suitable breeding partners so are not taken seriously by the mare anyways; thus koros are free to travel the isle like the kore counterpart, doing as they please. There’s probably more difference between individuals then there are between the sexes, anyways, as both can warm and nurturing, and fiercely protective of kin. The Clans of the Unicorn ~There are currently three “subspecies” of Kalidore unicorn, each unique in build, function, and mentality. And while each unicorn is an individual, there are certain more common characteristics among them that could be considered breed traits. This isn’t to say ALL member of the subspecies will exhibit this character type ALL the time, but there’s a good chance that even the most uncharacteristic of individuals will revert back to it every once and a while • “Foundation” Unicorn – those born in the image of Kala and Kaedon. These are the most common unicorn on the isle, and in appearance most closely resemble in build the Friesian horse – elegantly built with long limbs and chiseled features, abundant hair and delicate feathering around the hooves. The stand on average between 16-17hands, male being slightly larger. • Aviquinn – the wingéd horses of Kalidore. Everything about the aviquinn is delicate and refined. In appearance they are rather Arabian-esque, with dished faces and sickled ears, the tail carried high. Their hair is very fine and feathery, and they are also unhorned; the typical aviquinn stands between 13-14hands high. Personality-wise, Aviquinns are generally shy, though when warmed to a situation are much more excitable then their ground-dwelling brethren; they are impulsive and eager to seize and revel in the moment, and a few can be downright distracted. But they are clever, kind to a fault, expressive and joyous, taking delight in the immediacy of the world around them. • Torègarde – the giant, majestic sentinels of the isle. The draficorn are truly awesome, exuding gentle majesty and grace; the are squarely built and roman-nosed, much like the great Shires of earth. Everything about them is massive, including the dense hair and heavy feathering that bells each bucket-sized hoof. They are giants, standing upwards to 22hands tall. The drafters are of an old order and cause, standing resolutely as sentries to the gates of the isle. They are passionate but reserved, dedicated and resolved, acting carefully and surely with a purpose. But these great beasts are certainly not somber (though the aviquin might think them dowdy; the unidrafter in turn may consider the aviquin a bit of a flake) they are dedicated companions, both gentle and fierce, compassionate and intensely loyal. • Mesopippen – diminutive in size only, the little miniatures of the Isle are spunky and full of zest. Standing under three feet high at the shoulder, they might be the smallest equine on Kalidore, but somehow that often gets forgotten. "Strong legs, strong hearts, strong wills" - sums up the type quite nicely! Mesos are intelligent, curious and persistent to a fault, occasionally capricious but with the gusto to accomplish whatever they've set their minds to. They are dedicated to friends and family and will remember a good deed (or delicious sticky bun); that said, they can also hold a fantastic grudge, and at times their goals may not be the most realistic... All in all, Mesos generally mean well (even if they don't necessarily succeed) and it's often strangely hard to stay mad at one for long! • Nordenhjørn – most at home in the deep Northern Forests of the isle, Nordenhjørn may appear shy at first, but they are only quietly watching and learning before they act. Thoughtful and steadfast, they are both a kind and willing companion, ready to help when needed and give 110% percent. They are Standing around 12-13h high they are classicly pony in both size and appearance, with petite features and thick, wooly hair. Thier horns are unique - rustic and self-coloured, they are more akin to ivory then the characteristic mother-of-pearl; Nordens are not above using their horns to scrap away the thick frost and underbrush that makes up their northern home. .~ * ~ . Author's Note:I wanted to create the overview so that people who wanted to know more would have the information at their fingertips. Plus it would give people who are unsure a starting place to build their character upon. At the same time, there's a very fine line between HOW much information to give though, before it starts causing people tunnel vision and characters become cookie-cutter or indistinct. Or people get stalled on character creation all together, because they feel there are too many rules. This is not my intention at all, I just want to coax people away from obvious blunders or inconsistencies And, truly, I don't MIND characters falling out of type - so long as there is solid reasoning and thoughtful consideration behind it. So bottom line, think about your character carefully, thoroughly, and have fun!
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Mar 25, 2011 10:41:05 GMT -5
The Companions of Unicorns
It was Kal’s blessing that allowed unicorns and humans to bond, and with that brought magic into our grasp. Thus the bonding of a unicorn and companion is a very important event, a thing both coveted and feared the universe across.
Not every human and every unicorn are destined to pair however; those who do are said to have heard a calling, which they felt compelled to answer. This calling happens, as legend says, when Kalidore is in a time of Great Need; but neither unicorn nor human will receive such divine writ until they are ready, and both are still given freewill to answer the call or not.
In general, bonding: • allows a human to access & utilize magic • is gender-similar; thus kore bond to women and koros to men • does not happen to every unicorn or every human, and bonding in no way affects the status of either among unicorns • happens to adult unicorns and humans. It is very VERY unlikely that a youth of either species will form a bond, as both are still developing self and their own personal direction
Having a Companion ~ Often described as finding your “other half”, there are a few things to remember about this special bond. For starters, this bond works primarily to strengthen both human and unicorn, physically, mentally, and emotionally; bonded pairs support one another, and they are certainly not co-dependent. For that matter, coming to Kalidore should never be viewed as an escape of one’s earthly troubles – indeed, your unicorn would never allow you to do such a thing! (More likely then not, upon discovery of such an evasion, the unicorn will march you right back to earth and have you deal with the matter right then and there; also, don’t try to lie to your companion either – that never ends well!)
Finding a companion happens when both partners are ready. Often – but not always – it manifest first as a constant and persistent pull that leads unicorn and human together. Gates are instrumental to this happening, and while neither partner might have control over them in more relevant ways, the gates will generally help them find one another regardless. Thus, if a human haphazardly finds themselves in Kalidore, it’s a pretty good indication that there’s a unicorn waiting for them – somewhere…
Occasionally, one party member (i.e., the human) might declare they’re really actually thank-you-for-the-fish truly but no, not at all up to the job description…. after all, with great power comes great responsibility: being a companion means answering to a higher calling, and is not without its share of adversity and hardship. But deep down inside, one simply knows. Sometimes… a little encouragement is needed to help meet the call.
Because it’s part of their cultural fabric, and by virtue of the sheer nobility of their race, unicorns tend to work as the advising influence in a companion relationship, as both mentor and guide. Yet, it is genuinely a partnership of equality. While the human will certainly learn a lot from their /typically/ older and wiser companion (not to mention be able to tap into the shared of knowledge of the race through them is downright handy), the unicorn can learn just as much from their human. Humans have a greater range of emotion and intensity of feeling; they bring new ideas, and have creative ways of thinking. And where some of that innate majesty of the unicorn tends to rub off on their people, the same is true going the other way: unicorns with companions are often slightly more, well – humanized – then their non-bonded brothers and sisters.
The Source of Magic ~ Bonding with a unicorn means the ability to tap into the source of magic. What type of magic develops is determined by the human – unicorns are merely a conduit, they themselves don’t participate in magic except in innate ways (eg, healing, purification, and the ability to transcend language).
Magical ability develops slowly. In the early stages the physical closeness of one’s companion is often needed for the companion to perform; as their skills grow, this is not a requirement, though proximity always seems to help with the intensity of magic produced.
Because magic is never given to one who can’t handle it, this is probably another important reason why bonding does not happen to the very young!
Death of a Companion ~ Having a unicorn companion provides a human with certain boons, and in general a vastly extended lifespan is one of them, especially if much of their time is spent on Kalidore. And while Unicorns are incredibly vital, blessed with luck, and naturally live unfathomably long, death is a natural part of their cycle too. Thus, through age, war, and fate’s lot, companions can die, leaving behind a surviving partner.
In brief: • unicorns and humans can survive the death of their companion • the death is regarded the same as the death of a child or soul-mate, and is accompanied by the same sense of loss and grief • how the death occurs often affects how well the surviving member deals with it (ie, a tragic death is naturally harder to deal with then dying of old age). • it is unheard of for unicorns and humans to re-bond after this loss
In general, Unicorns tend to have a more zen-like approach to life and death then many human cultures, seeing death as a natural rite of life’s passage, and do not loath of it as some humans do. However, the unnatural death of one’s companion is something felt significantly, regardless of species or cultural divides.
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Post by Lady Whimsy on Mar 25, 2011 10:51:37 GMT -5
The Critters of Kalidore: Everything You Ever Needed to Know about Pets & Animal Husbandry
As the number of critters that join the Kalidorian ranks grow, it seemed like a good time for a crash course in some of the more common creatures of the isle! This will include character traits and of course, domestication; more detailed information about each individual species will be posted by the Kalidorian Geographical Society, but this should give a sound introduction should you consider rp’ing your pets The first thing to note is that yes, while unicorns can communicate with all creatures of the isle fluently, some animals are simply more linguistically gifted then others. This is not to say that the creatures who don’t talk are in any way considered lesser beasts – at least, not by unicorn; humans are the ones who love to categories things after all – it’s simply that verbal communication was not important to these creature’s development. And so, while a unicorn could indeed carry on a conversation with a hora, the conversation would probably be limited to the things the hora found important, like grass… the colour of grass, the smell of grass, where to find the tastiest grass and the choice times of day in which to consume it. Therefore, while you can have your pets “communicate” with your companions, they must do so in relevant terms. Thus your pocket griffon is not going to easily relate the co-ordinates of brilliant treasure it saw on its journey, nor is your musk mouse going to come up with a master plan (unless perhaps it revolves around raiding the Temple’s pantry). Their world view is limited, their actions/reactions instinctual, and it is important to remain true to type. ~ Common Creatures ~ Pocket Griffon:Weighing in at about 7oz, the smallest of the griffon family really does fit nicely in the pocket – if you can manage to keep one still that long. Intelligent, voracious, and having no concept of their small size (or other people’s personal space and/or belongings!) they love being in the thick of things and are quite the steely opportunists; they are also highly food motivated, so one could consider them questionably trainable. Sporting an endless range of pattern and colour, these vocal, inquisitive creatures are right at home among Kalidore’s human population, if only because they view them as an excellent source of treats. Thanks to Adar, Pocket Griffons have a reputation for being notoriously naughty. This is not untrue. However, not all griffons are going to be as bold (or spoiled, perhaps?) as Lilaini’s iconic griffon, and it would do well to allow your griffon to develop his own unique personality. (Also, Adar is extremely possessive; any griffons seen invading his turf are likely to get – well, turfed – very, very quickly!) Musk Mice: Native to the rocky Skyfields, these chinchilla-sized rodents are easily recognized by their often brilliantly-coloured splayed horns. They are generally shy, but can often be lured out with treats, and while not the most sociable companion can come to recognize their person and even learn a few tricks, too. Diki:At home on the great grassy plains of Kalidore, these miniature, dog-sized antelope are spunky and endearing, eager to be present and practically your own personal fan club. They tame very easily, to the point that they can be somewhat of a nuisance (especially while clear-cutting your flower bed en mass). Naturally a bit skittish, they do startle and go bouncing off to safety at a pin drop (and to whom/whatever end they deem the “safety” is in the situation). They are not terribly trainable either; blame this on their short attention span or general vapidity within the breed, but don’t expect them to ever get the concept that books are not for eating or your bed is strictly off-limits. Litter training is markedly out-of-the-question, too. Anagale:The Kalidorian bunny on all counts, this floofy critter is most similar to its Earthen counterpart. Shy and timid, but with a penchant for cuddling on a warm lap, they are surprisingly sociable with familiar people and even quite bold. They do prefer to do things on their own terms, and can get stressed in unfamiliar situations. They don’t travel well, and have particularly sensitive digestive systems. Because some individuals are more outgoing then others, it is wise to know your anagle’s personality and respect his or her boundaries – after all, a happy bunny is a thriving bunny, and an unhappy bunny is rabbit stew... Urdvoggen:It’s really quite questionable just what goes on in that amphibian brain, whether they are capable of understanding the concept of pet or just relish the immediate gratification of being fed yummies and having a bathtub to swim in. So don’t expect to snuggle up with your urdvoggen (at least, not intentionally… they have been known to enjoy a warm bedroll or two) but trust that your pet will surely be an interesting conversation piece! Pets: Domestication on KalidoreFirst and foremost, repeat after me: Unicorns do not have pets.This is from a specifically RP standpoint and has nothing to do with your certed adoptable, but it is a very important distinction to make. After all, the “ownership” of other creatures is a chiefly human concept, and one quite alien to the unicorn worldview. While they may have many creatures whom they are engaging and friendly with throughout the isle, they would never consider them their pets, in no way encourage domestication, and you wouldn’t expect to see a unicorn wandering trough the woods with a posse of critters following at its heels. Therefore, if you are playing a critter who is a pet, he or she is the pet of a humanoid companion. Period. This is not to say that you can’t rp an unmatched creature (ie, one doesn’t specifically belong to any one person), simply, that a unicorn wouldn’t be the one it’s attached to any more then Tali the Wolf is going to get chummily with an urdvoggen. While your unicorn might enjoy the company of diki out in the meadow, she’s not going to invite them home for dinner! Animal Husbandry ~Domestication has occurred on Kalidore since the first Companion set foot there; even the Daiga has her herd of milking goats, and Tyden as a child was known to have all sorts of creatures follow him home. At the temple, Rhiane has a flock of various egg-laying fowl (and one emu) and Lilaini could probably open a zoo with the number of tamed critters that call her backyard home. Perhaps it’s that innate longing to understand & experience different perspectives that makes humans to want to share their lives with others creatures; of course, one cannot overlook the way animals have improved human lives too – providing food, fur, and protection (and Kalidore is not, and never will be, a vegetarian isle). Making a pet of a cute little creature can happen easily enough, but remember: having a pet is also a big responsibility! Luckily, many of the animals – such as pocket griffons – can remain in a feral state, which means while friendly enough if you're offering food, they won't rely upon you to meet all their needs. Other creatures – a tamed anagale, for instance – are going to need a lot more attention, otherwise will likely to become Tali's lunch if left to fend for themselves. So before your character adopts an oodle of pets, think:• what is the relationship with the animal? (truly tamed, semi-feral) • how do they care for them? (do they live on Kalidore, or just visiting?) • what happens to the animal while they’re off on a quest? (and no, for the most part, you can’t just ‘take it with you’…) We also strongly encourage that you start yourself off with only one or two pets; this is so you can better develop their personalities, and explore how the inter-relationships will work between your companions. If you feel your character needs to have a multitude of critters, you must clear it with an RP Moderator first. While we agree that rules are there to be challenged, we also think there’s challenge enough in rping *one* cocky critter and want you to do this well before taking on more then you – or your critter – can chew! Also, pets should be played within “pet appropriate” situations. So yes, sitting around the campfire in the Great Meadow telling stories – perfectly acceptable to have your pets hunkering down with you and lending an ear; sneaking them through a Gate in your pocket… do you really want to have a Guardian (*cough*Lilaini*cough*) mad at you? No you don’t. Trust us on this. If you have any questions about an rp situation or whether you can bring Fluffy along on your companion’s newest quest, don’t hesitate to ask! Quick Do’s and Don’ts of RPing Pets:Do:- research the type of critter your pet is, and play him or her appropriately - less is more – get the handle on rping one pet well first before opening a menagerie - be considerate of others, and mind your pet doesn't make a nuisance of itself Do NOT:- try to out-Adar Adar. Any such pets will be eaten by Adar. - declare your pet is a beastly wild animal who comes to you and alone, an unbreakable bond forged when you rescued him from the jaws of death and nursed him back to health; he now waits eagerly for his chance to return the favour, loyal only to you unto death and beyond… need I go on?
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