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The Hooded One
Lady Herald of Realmslore
5056 Posts |
 Posted - 21 Jul 2007 : 00:57:46
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. . . . And now, by'Jove, it IS "next time."
Hello again, fellow scribes. This time Ed responds to Kuje about this recent query: “Hiya Ed,
I was browsing through your replies from this year and I was wondering if you could expand on your mention of finishing schools that are in some of the large cities. You specifically mentioned Waterdeep and Silverymoon, mostly in the reply from Jan of this year.
So could you note a few more details about the schools and maybe those in a few other cities? I know, this might turn into a large topic but I was curious about those places and so I was seeking more lore.”
Ed replies:
It certainly could turn into a huge topic, and I have no intention of providing a long list of academies. (Why? No time, and much of this works best if a DM can create just what they need to best suit their own campaign, with PCs having to discover all they can about a given academy through roleplaying.)
However, here are the basics (add this to what I replied back in January, which appears on page 8 of this thread): glib individuals who are literate (in particular down-on-their-luck longtime professional servants or minor nobles; what Waterdhavian society calls the “fifth, sixth, and seventh sisters” or “idle aunts” and “idle old uncles”) or have a particular skill (with a musical instrument, or as a singer, or fencing) set themselves up, usually in upper rooms somewhere (in Waterdeep, mainly in Castle Ward or South Ward; in Silverymoon, mainly in the westernmost streets of the city), to teach or provide practice sessions in return for pay. There are inevitably some “mock” academies that are really houses of prostitution or private drinking clubs for young wastrel nobles (and usually last until uncovered in public scandals), but most of these institutions are quite real and never rise above the level of struggling tutors.
A few, however, have the resources or charismatic staff or connections to establish themselves as “refined.” The reason there are so many of them in Waterdeep and Silverymoon is because both of those cities have some social mobility within classes (i.e. money can buy you status), and an ambitious, rising upper-middle-class that wants to aspire to nobility or at least the trappings of nobility. These are the groups that enrich academies that can establish an exclusive reputation, so that they expand, gain luxurious appointments (beautiful buildings), and can therefore hold revels or recitals or demonstrations to attract social interest and more clients (allowing them to hire more staff, purchase properties to gain rental income and therefore cash flow, expand again, and so on).
Wealthy or noble patrons sometimes sponsor (give some money to, not own outright or bankroll all the costs of) existing academies, and in return use them (on rare occasions) as private armies or agents (spy on this rival for me, rough up that man as he leaves yonder tavern, buy up all the barley you can find on the morrow).
However, the vast majority of academies are comfortable little establishments, such as three widows sharing a house and instructing young ladies on sewing, good manners, and how to act as a hostess (serving wine, directing servants at table, and the art of small talk). They will have a doorguard, one or more maids, and a regular clientele (akin to a modern real-world medical dentist).
Here are just a few academies (by no means all of them, in any city mentioned), to start you off:
WATERDEEP:
• Mother Tamra’s House of Graces (clientele: young ladies of ambitious families, being taught how to wash and groom themselves, fashion sense and how to keep a wardrobe looking fresh [including washing and sewing for repairs], etiquette and carriage [how to walk, sit, and hold one’s hands], how to write polite messages, how to politely and with dignity encourage or discourage social entreaties, dancing, and the “right thing to say” in difficult situations; secret clientele: prostitutes or male crossdressers or nobles about to appear in drag at a revel, who desire to learn how to look and act like a young lady of quality): Mendever Street, Castle Ward
• Tartel’s House of the Sword (clientele: persons desiring to learn how to fence or defend themselves with or against a light longsword or smaller blade, and a dagger; secret clientele: young nobles desiring to learn how to duel, and to meet young ladies for sex [Tartel is a wencher, and encourages young and beautiful women of all sorts as clients by offering them half-rates; prostitutes are allowed to pretend to be either students or maids on staff by paying full student rates; the rest of their “takings” are theirs to keep]): Seawatch Street, Sea Ward
• Corondorr’s Countinghouse (clientele: young guild members and unguilded shopkeepers desiring to learn math skills and “how business is really practiced” from a cynical, veteran clerk-of-coin retired from Piergeiron’s Palace; secret clientele: swindlers who want to learn all about dodges and what clerks like the sarcastic old Corondorr are looking out for, when business is done in Waterdeep): Aveen Street, North Ward
SILVERYMOON:
• Tantathra’s (clientele: folk who want to learn to sing or play simple airs on stringed instruments, or at least learn lyrics to popular songs; not-so-secret clientele: amateur musicians, folk looking to recruit amateur musicians for a revel, feast, or other entertainment event [e.g. shop opening, celebration], folk who love a regular musical get-together; secret clientele: romantic folk looking for lovers): Stormwind Alley (sideline: Tantathra sells teas, wine, ale, replacement strings, lyric sheets, and instruments to clients)
• The Risen Moon Academy (clientele: folk who want to learn how to dance and fence; secret clientele: persons desiring to pay for massages or outright lovemaking from several of the more beautiful female instructors employed by the proprietress, a beautiful, one-eyed retired adventuress by the name of Amratha “Redtresses” Dalree) : Alander’s Lane
NEVERWINTER:
• The Starshine Academy (clientele: those who desire to appreciate [and paint their own] art, acquire herblore, be able to live off the land, and know wild animals by scent, sound, and spoor; secret clientele: those desiring to make potions that induce sleep, freedom from pain, heightened sensations, lust, and calm): Blackule Lane (sideline: the tutors sell paintings, herbs, recipes, “animal tracks” reference drawings, and potions [some, it is rumored, even vend poisons])
SUZAIL:
• Mathulk’s House (clientele: males from all walks of life, both masters and servants, desiring to learn how to dress, maintain a wardrobe, walk and dance with dignity, and the “proper things to say and do” in most social situations; secret clientele: women wanting to pretend to be a man for a fancy-dress revel, or women needing to fool others into thinking them male for more serious purposes [includes tactics and special garments to hide the female figure and disguise feminine movements and gestures]): Taumurt’s Lane
• Dhannaera’s School of Deportment And Sophistication (clientele: females from all walks of life desiring to learn how to wash and groom themselves and others, fashion sense and how to keep a wardrobe looking fresh [including washing and sewing for repairs], etiquette and carriage [how to walk, sit, and dance], and the “right thing to say” in difficult situations; secret clientele: prostitutes and servants desiring to “move up” to higher-class employers): Nethnell Alley (sideline: sharp-tongued Dhannaera makes and sells corsets and bust augmentations, teaches the arts of sexual pleasure to a select and discreet few, and hires herself out as an escort specializing in sexually pleasuring awkward and “green” young noblemen and sons of wealthy wannabe-nobles [for their “first time” or even to tutor them to appear experienced, when their parents want this training and are paying for it)
ATHKATLA:
• Rezunder’s Academy of the Coin (clientele: investors, speculators, and shopkeepers interested in learning Amn’s ways of doing business, how to make and maintain a reputation in trade, “good bets” for investing, and financial foes and pitfalls to watch for): Methquem’s Way
So saith Ed. Who has used dozens of these establishments in Realmsplay with us, down the years. To Torm, these became notorious (“Aha! Another QUIET LITTLE ACADEMY, nudge nudge wink wink”) as places of vice, prostitution, thieving guild fronts, and hidden cults specializing in devouring live chickens or coupling with snakes, or bathing in chocolate [all as part of worship]; Torm termed them “nutbrain cults,” and several times got in trouble by using that phrase when talking to local Watch officers or magisters or tavernmasters. But then, the terms “trouble” and “Torm” are rarely separated by much more than the width of his tongue.
love to all,
THO
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Kuje
Great Reader
USA
7915 Posts |
Posted - 21 Jul 2007 : 01:44:45
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| Cool, thanks Ed. |
For some of us, books are as important as almost anything else on earth. What a miracle it is that out of these small, flat, rigid squares of paper unfolds world after world, worlds that sing to you, comfort and quiet and excite you... Books are full of the things that you don't get in real life - wonderful, lyrical language, for instance, right off the bat. - Anne Lamott, Bird by Bird
Scribe for the Candlekeep Compendium |
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The Sage
Procrastinator Most High
Australia
31701 Posts |
Posted - 21 Jul 2007 : 03:15:19
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Greetings Ed, I've another question to add to my backlog. 
*THO adds it to the pile*
It's regarding artistic traditions. I'm currently reading through a particularly lengthy tome covering the history of the Dada and Surrealism movements of the early 20th century. And, given my love of all-things-music related in the Realms, I started thinking about what type of artistic styles are at play in the Realms and how they may have influenced its society -- like music, for example.
In '04, '05 and '06, you've briefly told us a little about aspects of Realms art concerning sculpture and styles, and certain artisitic techniques, like perspective, that have been used for some works of art seen across the Realms. However, I'm wondering, chiefly, what more you can tell us about some of the more specific artistic traditions that have been both popular in the past, and those that form the current artistic trends among enterprising bards, bold Lliirans, and other artists throughout Faerûn today? And, also, perhaps a little about how these traditions may have influenced other aspects of Realms society -- like music, architecture, fashion, and, perhaps, even political thinking -- particularly in areas/cities where these traditions are strongest [for example, how Surrealism became popular in New York society after the Second World War]?
I realise that this is a fairly extensive topic. So I'll leave it up to you with regard to what you want to cover and what may be too lengthy to discuss properly, here at Candlekeep.
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Candlekeep - The Library of Forgotten Realms Lore
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Scribe for the Candlekeep Compendium -- Volume IX now available (Oct 2007)
"So Saith Ed" -- the collected Candlekeep replies of Ed Greenwood
Zhoth'ilam Folio -- The Electronic Misadventures of a Rambling Sage |
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Jamallo Kreen
Master of Realmslore
USA
1537 Posts |
Posted - 21 Jul 2007 : 18:37:44
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Well met!
In two recent Realms novels (City of Splendors and Darkvision) we've seen how, in the 1370s at least, some people will go to almost any length to "improve" their bodies with "add-ons" or replacement parts. How common is this practice (at least among those who can afford it)?
I have a specific question regarding a possible Bodywarper modification on which I would like your opinion, too: if the ancestral memory portion of an aboleth's brain were to be reduced to its minimum size and implanted into a subject, do you think that the subject would acquire the aboleth's ancestral memories since the acquiring and passing on of these memories seems to be merely extraordinary (and "natural" biology for aboleths, aberrations though they be)? I would suppose that the changes to the recipient's INT and WIS would vary according to the individual, but I am interested in what you think of the likelihood of the graft passing on aboleth lineage memory.
Many thanks to you both for all of these wonderful answers over the past few years!
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The Hooded One
Lady Herald of Realmslore
5056 Posts |
Posted - 22 Jul 2007 : 15:54:40
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Hi again, fellow scribes. Hmmm, great questions coming in.
Ed fields another question from createvmind this time, to whit: “This time I wish to understand Intelligent weapons in Faerun, how are they given sentience, do living beings voluntarily meld with weapons? Can they be bonded with weapons against their will and more importantly can a possessor fiend enter a intelligent weapon and what happens when this occurs, who dominates who, is it a constant conflict between the two "entities" within the weapon and how does this affect unknowing wielder? Thanks for all the insight.”
Ed replies:
Whew. Quite a barrage, there. Where to begin? Well, you’ll see one example of a sentient sword in the last book of the Knights of Myth Drannor trilogy, next year: THE SWORD NEVER SLEEPS.
Intelligent weapons are given sentience in many ways. Sometimes the souls or spirits of dying folk drift into waiting enchanted weapons, sometimes they are put there to keep the person’s sentience alive, and in some cases wizards and sorcerers who desire to live “forever” put themselves into weapons of their own enchanting, as an alternative to lichdom.
Sometimes grieving, sick, disfigured, disabled, fugitive, or just unhappy persons willingly cooperate with a wizard or other spellcaster (such as a priest of Gond) who can “put them into” a weapon; in other words, they DO “voluntarily meld” with a weapon.
However, being in a blade or other intelligent weapon drives most minds mad, over sufficient time (if bored, not if active).
Yes, most intelligent weapons can be bound against their will - - by the very few beings who know how and have sufficient power. A possessor fiend can in some cases enter an intelligent weapon, but usually can’t - - and upon entry, the sentiences may argue and even battle for control, but the resident entity has all the advantages in this struggle, and usually easily prevails, reducing the “second one in” to merely a mocking, powerless commentator.
Sometimes the wielder of the weapon is unaware of this struggle, but usually they can at least tell that something is wrong - - and if the weapon can speak, they almost always become aware of the struggle. A sentience in a weapon that’s having to fight one or more other internal sentiences for control usually lacks (or loses) power and concentration enough to “control” a wielder (any external being that touches the weapon). That doesn’t mean they won’t try to influence (by speech or actions) or affect the fates (by actions) of such wielders, telling the wielder what to do or uttering cryptic warnings or suddenly attacking others or springing from the wielder’s hand in attempts to affect how the wielder is regarded by other beings (“He tried to sword the Princess! KILL him!”).
Geniuses (beholders and the like, and the sort of archwizard of towering will who can readily become a lich, clinging to concentration and intent even through the bodily agony of killing themselves in particular, precise ways) can often manage to quell other wills inside a weapon AND dominate or control the weapon’s wielder, but such sentiences are rare - - and it’s even rarer that they wind up inside a weapon (when they do, it’s often the sort of sentience that can enter and leave the weapon freely, not one “bound” or trapped in the weapon, and so use the weapon as a means of hiding from peril or surviving for long periods until they can find another living body to possess, and thus outlive mortal causes or normal lifespans).
So saith Ed, who has always played with such weapons in his fiction and in Realmsplay. As I know, to my character’s cost (Ed can vividly describe what it feels to have a long, hard, COLD longsword slid fatally up inside your body - - so vividly that I was almost sick, the first time he did so during play). Shudder.
love to all,
THO
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createvmind
Senior Scribe
490 Posts |
Posted - 22 Jul 2007 : 21:08:19
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Thank you Lady and Ed,
As always any reply from Ed opens even more questions but he has provided more than enough in regards to this question and my application of it. BTW the Azuth appearance last friday in game left my players with mouths agape and staring at their cleric like "Ooooooooooooooh, you in trouble."
Thanks again. |
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The Hooded One
Lady Herald of Realmslore
5056 Posts |
Posted - 23 Jul 2007 : 00:36:42
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Hi again, fellow scribes. This time Ed of the Greenwood responds to Jorkens, re. this query from mid-April: “Good morning Sweet Lady, I have another question for Ed. Looking through some old monsters I came over the Ormyrr again and I started to wonder; what role do these creatures play in the ruins of Myth Drannor and how did they arrive in the area? Are there any more bits of lore about this creature you would be willing to share with us?”
Ed replies:
I’m going to have to dance carefully around some NDAs here and therefore give a necessarily incomplete answer, but let me say this much: the Ormyrr were (or are, depending on how much Myth Drannor has been “tamed” and reoccupied in your campaign) predators among the ruins who survived the passing attacks of demons and devils through cooperation among themselves (ormyrr working together), thoroughly scouting the ruins and knowing where they can take refuge or defend themselves best, and in making use of various local wardings and magical effects among the ruins. I say “passing attacks” because there seems to be something about ormyrr that both demons and devils find . . . distasteful. Not worth fighting or slaying or bothering about, better avoided, and certainly not to be eaten.
The ormyrr came to Myth Drannor in the same way they have appeared elsewhere in Faerûn: through various portals, opportunistically, not as intended or anticipated migrants from . . . elsewhere (they don’t create their own portals, their places of origin remain mysterious, and portal-creators active in the Realms didnn’t expect them to show up).
Which leaves them, yes, rather mysterious. :}
So saith Ed. Ducking and dodging NDAs with grace and agility, all the way. 
love to all,
THO
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The Hooded One
Lady Herald of Realmslore
5056 Posts |
Posted - 24 Jul 2007 : 15:41:38
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Hello again, all. Finally fought my way back into Candlekeep. Whew. This time I bring you the words of Ed of the Greenwood regarding this query from Kuje: “I was curious about if you could supply some differences between the pirates of the Nelanther Isles and the pirates in the Sea of Fallen Stars and Realmspace pirates. Specifically, I was wondering if you could details some superstitions of the three types, plus any pirate codes that they have? I could use some of Earth's pirate superstitions and codes but some of them make no sense for FR, so I was hoping for some FR answers.”
Scribe Jamallo Kreen then queried what Kuje meant, and Kuje added: “I meant basically a pirate code of conduct. The book I was reading had a sample of a pirate code. I.E. no woman on board, less they were slaves or there to be.... raped. Or an another example, who got what plunder and how much, etc.”
Ed replies:
It’s almost impossible to make accurate general statements about any of those three groups of pirates; they’re such large categories, including many sorts of races of creatures who took up or fell into piracy for so many different reasons, with such a variety of ships. So, let me try. :}
PIRATES OF THE FALLEN STARS gave us a look at the Sea of Fallen Stars pirates, who prey on passing shipping and participate in slaving. These freebooters have a few “friendly” ports (such as Westgate and Teziir at various periods of time) but by and large live as fugitives amongst the islands, fighting among each other only in passing (because they dare not take the time for really wholehearted war amongst themselves, with Sembian and Cormyrean and other naval vessels or hired “banes” (ships whose crews are being paid to hunt pirates) seeking to sink and slaughter them all. So these pirates have strict customs (not written rules or laws, but a code nonetheless, with breakers of that code being shunned by all and attacked by some) governing how they behave towards each other in friendly ports (no-weapons drunken brawls in taverns are acceptable but discouraged, but attacks on ship, cargoes, and armed and deliberate fighting are utter “no-nos”). There are no taboos on women on board in any capacity (and in fact pleasure-boats of whores exist in the Vilhon and in some harbors, as well as female pirates, and female “agents ashore” who keep “safe houses” for injured or sought-after pirates to hide in or hide “too hot” cargoes in, and to act as buying and selling agents and messengers in places where the pirates themselves would be captured or slain outright).
In the Nelanther and in Realmspace, things are far more varied and lawless: there’s far more open water or space, and islands or floating-rock refuges to dwell on and hide among, a huge variety of sailors (from many countries, of many races, and for many reasons [for example, the Nelanther and Realmspace have some pirates that are various sorts of creatures that sail the seas to catch and eat sailors, and care nothing for the ships, which they let sail on, unplundered and uncrewed; that sort of pirate is unheard-of on the Sea of Fallen Stars]) indulging in piracy, and (with the exception of the local rules of a very few “safe haven” ports used as common meeting grounds for repairs, refitting, and the buying and selling of cargoes and hiring new crew) no police or code at all except “what sword and spell dictate.” Again, there are no taboos against females.
All three pirate locales have superstitions involving “ghost ships” that give warning or presage doom when seen, and “dead ships” crewed by skeletons or undead that hunt down and punish those who have broken codes or individual pacts (if your captain promises Reljack Redbeard he’ll not steal from him, and does, “that’s a pact broken, and the gods will know,” the gods being Umberlee, Mask, and others). The problem with trying to say anything useful to you about the pirate codes is that these superstitions are invoked, embroidered, or ignored by pirates for their own purposes, rather than applied with any consistency.
So saith Ed, who is trying not to tie the hands of DMs (and Realms writers and designers) TOO tightly here. Sail on, cutlass in teeth . . .
Oh, one thing: Ed neglected to mention the ships that are floating temples; there’s one dedicated to Loviatar that plies the Lake of Dragons, Vilhon, and Dragon Reach on a dedicated circuit, “looping” at each port of call so faithful can come aboard at midnight, worship aboard (flogging and being flogged, in various holy rituals) for the next day as the ship sails out of the harbor, around in a great arc and back in again, and disembark on the same wharf again, the next midnight. Torm and Sharantyr posed as faithful and went aboard so Torm could plunder (he escaped by the skin of his teeth, not nearly as wealthy as he’d hoped to become) and Sharantyr could see if she liked pain as much as Torm wanted her to (no, but well enough that she forgave him for bringing her along).
Ah, those Knightly adventures of yore . . .
love to all,
THO
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Kajehase
Great Reader
Sweden
2104 Posts |
Posted - 24 Jul 2007 : 16:01:35
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I saw something Katherine Kerr said about the differences between the human and elven physioloies on a mailing-list for fans of her Deverry books and thought it'd be interesting to hear how much of that holds true in the Realms, so:
quote:
The differences are based on their long lives. I was thinking, well, in folklore elves live for hundreds of years -- to say nothing of the immortal version as per Tolkien. Yet accidents happen to all of us, and to those who live out in the wilderness areas, they may happen even more frequently. Therefore elves must heal faster (this is brought out in DAGGERSPELL, present time section), fight infection better, and also bleed less from cuts than humans.
I'm postulating that organs like the kidneys and liver, which strain out impurities, must work a thousand times better than ours, too, which would explain the resistance to drink and to poisons (as in Book 4, when the Hawks try to poison Rhodry). Other internal organs, such as the heart, must "self-repair" faster than ours. Those tall if slender frames may have more room inside for a larger heart and lungs.
The liver-kidney function is probably central, though.
Kit
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There is a rumour going around that I have found god. I think is unlikely because I have enough difficulty finding my keys, and there is empirical evidence that they exist.
Terry Pratchett |
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Kuje
Great Reader
USA
7915 Posts |
Posted - 24 Jul 2007 : 16:24:32
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| Cool, thanks again Ed. :) |
For some of us, books are as important as almost anything else on earth. What a miracle it is that out of these small, flat, rigid squares of paper unfolds world after world, worlds that sing to you, comfort and quiet and excite you... Books are full of the things that you don't get in real life - wonderful, lyrical language, for instance, right off the bat. - Anne Lamott, Bird by Bird
Scribe for the Candlekeep Compendium |
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createvmind
Senior Scribe
490 Posts |
Posted - 24 Jul 2007 : 19:13:39
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Candlekeep does indeed have some formidable wards, haven't been able to get in here for past two days.
Oh yeah, see you all at Gencon. |
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Lord of Bones
Seeker
United Kingdom
78 Posts |
Posted - 24 Jul 2007 : 21:41:06
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Hello again Mr Greenwood and the fair Hooded Lady.
I've a quick question this time, and it's more of a general musing than a topic that'll need to be statted or researched.
Although Elminster, Manshoon and Szass Tam are clearly at odds, would you imagine there's ever been a situation when they've had a chance at civilised or even friendly debate? I know Manshoon and Elminster have had their share of exchanges, but Tam especially is someone who I wonder at the mindset of. Do you think it likely they could ever sit down and just have a drink? (a bit difficult for a lich, but I expect you can see what I'm getting at).
Any thoughts would be appreciated. I wouldn't like to think of any of them as too shallow as to not hear the other out before blasting them into oblivion. |
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The Hooded One
Lady Herald of Realmslore
5056 Posts |
Posted - 25 Jul 2007 : 01:00:00
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Hi again, all. Back in November of last year, WalkerNinja posed a question that Ed delayed answering because the contents of the Realms hardcover “super-adventures” (such as CORMYR/The Tearing of the Weave and SHADOWDALE/The Scouring of the Land) weren’t final and “set.” Ed can still respond only in generalizations, rather than naming specific places and characters, but here we go anyway, with WalkerNinja’s straightforward question: “Ed & THO, Are there any active Druidic Circles in the Moonsea region?”
Ed replies:
Yes, despite the strife that has raged in the area. There are two circles in the countryside of the Vast, one in the Border Forest, one that meets north of Deepingdale but has been much weakened by attacks from Sembia, Hillsfar, suspicious elves, and Zhentarim over the years, and one VERY secretive one that works in northern Sembia (among the upland hunting lodges and preserves of wealthy Sembians). The circles in Battledale and eastern Sembia, however, were both exterminated, and the circle that certain druids tried to form in Daggerdale was shattered by hostile agents (of Shade and the Zhentarim).
Unless, of course, you want things to be different in your Realms campaign.
So saith Ed. Who apologizes for having to be so brief and general, but certain things still haven’t “unfolded” yet, that he doesn’t want to contradict.
love to all,
THO
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createvmind
Senior Scribe
490 Posts |
Posted - 25 Jul 2007 : 02:58:55
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| What is the necessity of Druidic circles if it causes druids to be targeted so, are they too stubborn in tradition/rituals to not find ways to succeed without being set upon by so many factions? |
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Mandras
Seeker
Estonia
51 Posts |
Posted - 25 Jul 2007 : 07:28:47
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Hello again Ed.
Could You please (as in pretty pretty please with the sugar on top) give me the birth dates of Mourngrym Amcathra, Shaerl Rowanmantle and Randal Morn?
Best Regards,
Mandras
PS! Was Shaerl originally a PC character?
PPS! Is the LLairhavenn part of his name a nickname? What does it stand for? |
"The pure and simple truth is rarely pure and never simple."
Oscar Wilde |
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Blueblade
Senior Scribe
USA
804 Posts |
Posted - 25 Jul 2007 : 23:32:09
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Dear Ed and Lady THO,
I know Ed has contributed to 40 YEARS OF GENCON (Atlas) and HOBBY GAMES: THE 100 BEST (Green Ronin), and that they were both intended for a GenCon Indy 07 release.
Is that still the case? Have you heard anything? Will they both be for sale at the show?
Thanks! |
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Kuje
Great Reader
USA
7915 Posts |
Posted - 26 Jul 2007 : 00:24:16
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quote:
Originally posted by Blueblade
Dear Ed and Lady THO,
I know Ed has contributed to 40 YEARS OF GENCON (Atlas) and HOBBY GAMES: THE 100 BEST (Green Ronin), and that they were both intended for a GenCon Indy 07 release.
Is that still the case? Have you heard anything? Will they both be for sale at the show?
Thanks!
I asked about this at the end of June and Ed said that he couldn't discuss the Green Ronin book until James gave him the okay to do so. :) See Ed's reply in my compiled replies or over on page 43 of this thread. It's halfway down the page. |
For some of us, books are as important as almost anything else on earth. What a miracle it is that out of these small, flat, rigid squares of paper unfolds world after world, worlds that sing to you, comfort and quiet and excite you... Books are full of the things that you don't get in real life - wonderful, lyrical language, for instance, right off the bat. - Anne Lamott, Bird by Bird
Scribe for the Candlekeep Compendium |
Edited by - Kuje on 26 Jul 2007 00:26:25 |
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The Hooded One
Lady Herald of Realmslore
5056 Posts |
Posted - 26 Jul 2007 : 03:25:46
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Indeed. Ed can confirm that the 40 YEARS OF GENCON book will indeed be on sale at the con - - and still doesn't know about HOBBY GAMES: THE 100 BEST. The latter book is, I understand, in the hands of the printer (i.e. it's editorially "done").
So we'll just have to see . . .
love to all,
THO |
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The Hooded One
Lady Herald of Realmslore
5056 Posts |
Posted - 26 Jul 2007 : 03:33:28
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And Ed replies lightning-swift to createvmind, re. this: "What is the necessity of Druidic circles if it causes druids to be targeted so, are they too stubborn in tradition/rituals to not find ways to succeed without being set upon by so many factions?"
Ed says:
Many druids don't operate in circles. Circles work best when druids have an ongoing need to consult with (share intelligence with), or get aid from, other druids. Except as "secret societies," they are less useful in densely populated areas. The Dragonreach lands have been a cauldron of competing interests (Dragon Cultists, Red Wizards, Zhents, "good" elves, "evil" elves and others desiring to control Myth Drannor, Hillsfar, Sembia, various Dales, the Harpers, Cormyr, expansionist Archendale, and so on and on), and the druids have all too often been caught in crossfires. However, circles can be VERY useful, and several very successful ones are operating (undercover) in the Sword Coast North right now.
So saith Ed. Who can sing most of "I Am The Very Image of A Personage Druidical" (though it was Ian Hunter, who portrays Lanseril, who composed those G&S-accompanying lyrics, if I recall correctly).
love to all,
THO |
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Asgetrion
Master of Realmslore
Finland
1564 Posts |
Posted - 26 Jul 2007 : 12:48:19
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quote:
Originally posted by The Hooded One
[br and still doesn't know about HOBBY GAMES: THE 100 BEST. The latter book is, I understand, in the hands of the printer (i.e. it's editorially "done").
So we'll just have to see . . .
love to all,
THO
I was happy to notice that the acquisition department of my library has purchased this book!   |
"What am I doing today? Ask me tomorrow - I can be sure of giving you the right answer then."
-- Askarran of Selgaunt, Master Sage, speaking to a curious merchant, Year of the Helm |
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The Hooded One
Lady Herald of Realmslore
5056 Posts |
Posted - 26 Jul 2007 : 15:27:55
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And I would hope that many, many libraries do so. Although any "best of" is by nature subjective (in the same way that there are furious debates about who won, and who "should have won," the Oscars and many other awards), and the book has space limitations (only a hundred games, only a few pages on each, and the line has to be drawn somewhere; Ed tells me Jim Lowder decided that "active" board games such as shove ha'penny, caroms, and crokinole had to be left out), the book is a valuable snapshot of games for the uninitiated: a snapshot that says "here are one hundred darn good games, here's enough about each that you learn what it is and probably if it's for you or your family or gaming group," and a stellar lineup of gaming designers doing the writing (that's the still-secret part, though I suspect Jim would have put in a rule that no one could write about "their own" game).
In short, EVERY public library should buy it. I urge scribes to suggest it to their local library, because I would be delighted if Green Ronin made big bucks off this. All praise is due Mr. Lowder for thinking of it, pitching it, and doing all the editing work.
Hail, Jim!
love to all,
THO |
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createvmind
Senior Scribe
490 Posts |
Posted - 26 Jul 2007 : 18:20:19
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Poor druids, it would seem rangers often have to try and keep the peace between druids and these factions or choose a side.
What can you tell us of medusa society, both genders and how they function in faerun? Are they beautiful featured beings with snake hair or just like humanoids run the range when it comes to looks, tribal, clannish? |
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Vanidariaen
Acolyte
USA
11 Posts |
Posted - 26 Jul 2007 : 22:15:33
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| I don't have a question for Mr. Greenwood, just a huge THANK YOU! I've spent the last couple weeks reading all of the questions he has answered for his loyal fans. To take such time out of his busy schedule is honestly and truly appreciated. Thank you, thank you, thank you! |
http://tom.myhereandhereafter.com |
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ddporter
Acolyte
26 Posts |
Posted - 27 Jul 2007 : 02:10:20
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quote:
Originally posted by The Hooded One
So saith Ed. Who can sing most of "I Am The Very Image of A Personage Druidical" (though it was Ian Hunter, who portrays Lanseril, who composed those G&S-accompanying lyrics, if I recall correctly).
Surely I am not the only Savoyard here. What are the chances of seeing these lyrics? |
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Kuje
Great Reader
USA
7915 Posts |
Posted - 27 Jul 2007 : 03:10:04
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Ed and THO,
I sent you a email on a private matter. Hopefully the email will arrive. |
For some of us, books are as important as almost anything else on earth. What a miracle it is that out of these small, flat, rigid squares of paper unfolds world after world, worlds that sing to you, comfort and quiet and excite you... Books are full of the things that you don't get in real life - wonderful, lyrical language, for instance, right off the bat. - Anne Lamott, Bird by Bird
Scribe for the Candlekeep Compendium |
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The Hooded One
Lady Herald of Realmslore
5056 Posts |
Posted - 27 Jul 2007 : 03:35:40
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Hi, Kuje. E-mail received. Initial reaction from Ed: yes. SOMEday (rest of this year VERY busy, and day job may prevent). He will get back to you through me ( ) as per usual.
Purrrrrr....
love,
THO |
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The Hooded One
Lady Herald of Realmslore
5056 Posts |
Posted - 27 Jul 2007 : 03:37:35
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And now, for everyone . . .
Well met again, scribes. This time Ed makes reply to createvmind’s query: “How are Half-dragon humanoids affected by the Rage if it affects them at all?
One of my PC's is a half-dragon/ half-wood elf, Amethyst if I recall correctly and with 1373 looming I'm wondering how to drop hints without dropping hints. He doesn't read the novels but probably has the Dragons of Faerun scourcebook by now.
MY thoughts are in the early months of rage he will find himself easily distracted, difficuly to awaken at times suffering bouts of deep sleep, annoyed when made to repeat himself or answer constant questions.
If attracted to someone their every action or inaction will change his mood instantly, probably not for the better.
During combat he will find it difficult to restrain himself from doing lethal damage especially to enemy that has hurt him in some form. Will sometimes use natural weapons in a situation that clearly calls for something else before restraining himself, such as against a creature that has resistance/immunity to slashing damage.
Sense of humor will become more jaded.
As the Rage persist these "moods" will become more intense, his sleeping pattern will range from occassional deep sleep to very little sleep, or vice versa depending on your take on sleep.
I think him seeing extreme violence, blood and gore will cause him to grow highly agitated if not in combat, more bestial if in combat. And his perception while in combat will suffer as he will focus on slaying and not group tactics, even using his breath weapon with companions/noncombatants in area.
My main point is what will his dreams and daydreams/visions be of and being part elven will that help him in anyway during the various stages of the Rage?”
Kuje chimed in with this: “Richard Byers, before Dragons of Faerun came out, said in his thread so many years ago that the Rage would effect half-dragons but with lesser symptoms. Check his thread or my compiled logs. :)
Also, Dragons of Faerun, in the Dracorage Mythal, backs up what he says because it effects all dragon and dragonblooded.”
Ed replies:
When I first conceived of the Rage of Dragons (preceding the launch of the published Realms) it was meant to affect all dragons and those with draconic blood to some extent, unless specifically magically protected (i.e. I knew there would be exceptions, but I hadn’t worked out who, how, or why).
So the short answer is “yes,” the PC WILL be affected by the Rage, and your description of his symptoms almost perfectly matches my take on it. I would say that his dreams will move quickly, usually involving violence or at least chases, change often, and be agitated, involving beings the PC hates or loves or fears or wants the respect of. They won’t ALL be bad, but there will be a lot of blood (though the dooms will quickly be replaced by new dreams, not dwelt upon). As a result, he won’t sleep well. A sleeping partner will find him restless (moving about often, and from time to time thrashing or sweating and murmuring), and if that partner is also a sexual partner, they may find his dreams lead him to initiative violent sex with them WHILST STILL ASLEEP (dreaming).
The elven side of the PC is what is keeping his dreams so (relatively!) innocuous, AND the PC able to maintain any personal control over himself at all. This control, by the way - - unless shattered by external events - - will continue throughout the Rage, so the PC can (with the symptoms you’ve described and proposed) continue to function in life.
So saith Ed, creator of the Rage and quite a few dragon types, too (fang, deep, electrum, and more). Who has, he tells me, finally recovered from participating in his library’s midnight Harry Potter launch (a wild affair of some 300 guests, live owls, a Sorting Hat, readings of the last chapter of the Half-Blood Prince and just a teaser from the very beginning of the first chapter of Deathly Hallows, much food, an Order of the Phoenix meeting, 200 copies of the book being sold in ten minutes, and Ed garbed as Elminster whilst his fellow staffers were all costumed as various Hogwarts characters). They’re STILL giving away candies and cookies . . .
love to all,
THO
P.S. Ed tells me he won six different bets as to the outcome of the saga (survival and revealed loyalties of various characters), with the result that no less than SIX publishing staffers from various companies now owe him dinners. Go ahead, publishing houses: feed the starving author!
P.P.S. To Vanidariaen, Ed says: You are very welcome. I enjoy answering Realmslore questions, and just wish I had a LOT more time in my life to do so. Though I suppose many folk feel the same pressure. Please, keep reading, and feel free to add queries into the ongoing ferrago!
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Edited by - The Hooded One on 27 Jul 2007 03:44:37 |
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Kuje
Great Reader
USA
7915 Posts |
Posted - 27 Jul 2007 : 03:58:14
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quote:
Originally posted by The Hooded One
Hi, Kuje. E-mail received. Initial reaction from Ed: yes. SOMEday (rest of this year VERY busy, and day job may prevent). He will get back to you through me () as per usual.
Purrrrrr....
love,
THO
Cool thanks,
Will look forward to getting more info, etc. :) It doesn't have to be this year either, next year or something is fine as well..... We can work on the details over email.... |
For some of us, books are as important as almost anything else on earth. What a miracle it is that out of these small, flat, rigid squares of paper unfolds world after world, worlds that sing to you, comfort and quiet and excite you... Books are full of the things that you don't get in real life - wonderful, lyrical language, for instance, right off the bat. - Anne Lamott, Bird by Bird
Scribe for the Candlekeep Compendium |
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createvmind
Senior Scribe
490 Posts |
Posted - 27 Jul 2007 : 18:51:47
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Thank you again,
enjoy your weekend. |
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The Hooded One
Lady Herald of Realmslore
5056 Posts |
Posted - 28 Jul 2007 : 01:36:32
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Hello again, all.
Scribe ddporter recently asked: "Surely I am not the only Savoyard here. What are the chances of seeing these lyrics?" in response to my words: "So saith Ed. Who can sing most of "I Am The Very Image of A Personage Druidical" (though it was Ian Hunter, who portrays Lanseril, who composed those G&S-accompanying lyrics, if I recall correctly)."
Ed replies:
I will try to contact Ian for permission AND for a copy of the lyrics (which may take some time, as he's a very busy and roving fellow). My copy is literally buried in my upstairs study, and may well take years to find. As I recently discovered the hard way, whilst searching for vintage sketches for a forthcoming book, and finding all too few of them.
So saith Ed. And I strongly suspect that book was THE ANNOTATED ELMINSTER, due out in November.
love to all,
THO
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Questions for Ed Greenwood (2007)
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