Transitions
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[edit] Transitions
In a universe where sufficiently advanced magic has become much like technology, the Empire of the Seven Worlds has held firm for over a thousand years. Ruled by long-lived Septarchs who control the flow of interstellar travel and the Crystals that underlie all magic, there have been few real societal changes since the First Septarch uncovered the secrets of magic and lifted humanity out of the dark ages. Specialized magical devices promise wealth and ease for all, yet the planetary feudal lords in their orbital fortresses keep a tight hold on the flow of the open-ended magical crystals that provide true power. Most believe that the myriad gods of the Pantheon slowly and subtly guide humankind, their word and will reaching from Heaven to the worlds through subtle -but very real- omens and destiny. But even in a place where Heaven can be seen traveling across the nighttime sky, and the ruins of the Ancients have lain uncomprehended for the length of history, nothing is truly permanent; at long last, changes will come to the Empire and its people, and a small core of the Empire's best and brightest will find themselves at the center of it all.
Transitions is planned as a semi-competitive, open-world short camaign for about 6 players, focusing on themes of exploration and loss, individual and cultural change. PCs will have different backgrounds and motives, and are neither required nor expected to be constantly working or traveling together (somewhat Amber-style, for those familiar with that game). The campaign is non-linear, open-ended, and somewhat freestyle; the final direction of plot will be as much in the players' control as mine. Self-motivated characters will find no end to the list of interesting possibilities to pursue in my wholly original world, especially in exploring and unraveling the world's historical, political, religious and supernatural intricacies. The system is a diceless, narrative-heavy homebrew with characters built around numerous attributes, the selection of patron gods, and a handful of auctions. I expect the campaign to finish in 8-12 sessions, although exact timing may vary widely.
Type: Tabletop, Short Campaign
System: Homebrew, Amber, Sufficiently Advanced Magic
Start Date: October 2003
End Date: May 2004
GMs:
[edit] Characters
PCs
- Adirana Mesunari Nesaro (Emma R.-C.)
- High society noblewoman with the Septarch's ear.
- Chaba Chernousov (Jed S.)
- Flaky-seeming young nobleman from one of the ducal worlds.
- Djolvin Korivan (Adam S.)
- Veteran captain of the Outwards Fleet.
- Lyra Vielian (Alice L.)
- Famous physician, well-loved for her success with a plague outbreak.
- Tanaka Kitsune-Mesunari (Paul F.)
- Religious member of the Imperial Messenger Service.
[edit] Plotline
In brief: Faked alien invasion, followed by real alien invasion. Some PCs dealt with the military and sociopolitical responses and ramifications, while others ascended to godhood and convinced the insular "deities" (scientists who had gained immortality using the pre-historical ultratech on which modern "magic" is based) to take part in the Empire's salvation.
