It's been too long, folks. In fact, a few people have asked me (with sideways glances) if Rhune: Dawn of Twilight had given up the ghost. It hasn't. In fact, I'm so damned busy that I had to force myself away from the website for a bit to play catch up. It wasn't just Rhune, though. I had a host of side projects (a few unrelated to games) that screamed into the foreground. As you can imagine, that divided my attention and the websire went full-blown back-burner. 

So, what's up? Well, for one, a close friend (and fellow game designer) just had his Kickstarter funded! The Shadowlands Campaign Setting is a pretty big project (based on the Paizo ruleset) that incorporates some pretty cool ideas about science, magic, planetary colonization, and social advancement. Not only is it a cool idea, it's an idea that he's given me some free room in which to play. So, while I don't have the freedom to do whatever I want, he has given me a few ...cough cough... factions to mold. As I've done a great deal of the work on Rhune's factions, it seemed a natural step for me. So, I have one I'll be toying around with in 2012 that I think is pretty cool. I'll also be writing a mini-adventure set in the city of Tarina due out in the spring. If all goes as planned, I'll have it out sooner.

What about Rhune? Well, there's another mini-adventure (well, maybe not soooo mini) that I plan to release this August in time for Gen Con, alongside an updated Advanced Player's Guide (complete with some new art). It'll be as much an update to the old PG as it is a bigger introduction to the setting, all under my new studio name. 

That's not the only news, either. Because I'll be folding everything into the new studio, Rhune will become a link on that site. Don't worry, it'll still be its own entity (and very much the stormpunk campaign setting you love), just under the umbrella of something I should have done years ago. I won't be, mind you, launching with the intent of competing with a majority of the Paizo 3PPs. Nope, not at all. You won't find any "100 NPC Boons" books coming out of the studio (even if they are awesome crunch). Instead, you'll find some unique pdfs designed to supplement a GMs ongoing game, be it in the form of unique NPCs, flavorful monsters, or inconic encounters (and don't go stealing that, cause that's what I plan on calling them). As always, there will be a focus on quality production for a mature audience. Or something similar. ;)

Locally, I've been running a superheroes game called Age of Strange: Dark Tides based on the maddness of Mr. Clinton Boomer's setting of the same name. It's a fun game that's given me a chance to create dynamic PCs based on (conceptually) the old X-Men characters from the Marvel Universe. The group consists of Tye (a Tiefling-Nightcrawler hybrid), Iron Girl (modeled after Rescue), Absynn (modeled after X-23), The Acolyte (a cleric-wizard hybrid; student of Strange), Frostfire (modeled after Ice Man) and Psi (based on The White Queen). They're starting to blog - which is an interactive tool for me (as the GM) and them (as characters telling their stories) supplements our regular Friday game. It's still a new idea, but I think it's going to be a fabulous disaster. You can check it out here. They also joke about RPGs (rocket-propelled grenades), dinosaurs, and Emma's undies a lot. I try to keep them restricted to our little corner of Facebook.

In other news, the folks over a Bazaar Magazine decided that my shenanigans needed yet another outlet and, this past spring, gave me my own column. I write monthly in Geeks and Gamers, offering everything from geek-related advice to game reviews. It's really geared toward the local community here in Kuwait, but every once in a while, I cross the desert and write stuff for the gamer-geek community as a whole. I suppose, out of context, some of it won't make sense to outsiders, but that's always the case when you write on the local level. Regardless, I have fun with it and the feedback has been positive. (Note: not all of my articles are online. Where possible, I will reprint them on the new site in 2012. Keep your eyes peeled.)

Well, the hour grows late and I still have a lot of writing ahead of me. So, I'll cut this short and wish all of you - stormpunkers one and all - a good night. 

Jaye,

November 30th, 2011

There are certain things in life that always make me smile; things like Chinese take-out, good Scotch, a great song, and an awesome gaming session. So, when it comes to gaming cons, you can imagine how happy I am. It's all of those things + cool people wrapped into one (although you should probably save the Scotch for post game activities). As far as gaming cons go, Gen Con (from my humble experience) is the current (and long-standing) king of the ring. You can imagine how sad I was when I heard, earlier this year, I wasn't going to be able to go. I was scheduled to sign a new contract with my company, with my vacation being postponed until late fall, early winter. I wasn't happy. In fact, I was on the verge of writing the whole trip off. But something stopped me. You probably know that voice, too. I listened when it said, "Don't cancel your hotel reservations just yet...

As of last week, discovered I would be able to attend. I couldn't go Stateside for my traditional 3-4 week stay, but I could swing 16 days. What can I say? Crisis avoided (especially considering some of "my gamers" are slated to be there). I'm pretty happy with the outcome. So this year, for my third in a row, I'll be at Gen Con. I'll be meeting up with some of the industry's trendsetters, attending seminars, and looking at ways in which I can build a better game. And for once, I'll be sitting down and getting to play!!

I'll also be talking about my setting, Rhune: Dawn of Twilight, as well.

I want Rhune: Dawn of Twilight to hit the ground running in 2012. I'm going to do this by continuing to focus on Rhune's strong points, while actively working to accommodate the wide spectrum of options Paizo's Pathfinder Roleplaying Game offers individual gamers. I won't be able to fix everything into the world (especially a lot of the eastern themed options), but I will keep the northern, stormpunk feel at the forefront. You'll still have dark, twisted barbarians and darker, renegade gods to contend with. There will be darker omens, too, all pointing to the day when Ragnarök descends...

Moreover, I've moved some incredible artists onto the project, as well. Terry Maranda has taken on a great deal of work, illustrating parts of Rhune with a rough, gritty feel that is completely appropriate to my vision. He, much like Jon Roberts, just "gets" Rhune. I'm excited to be working with him. Of course, most of the artists that have worked on Rhune continue to do so. Why? Because it is my desire to make Rhune as visually appealing as possible. I want it to be define by its art as much as it is by its concept and delivery. I think that's a core concept in RPG game design (and all project designs, really). If you have an amazing product and deliver it poorly, it will won't get nearly the same stage time that lesser products get. It's not fair, but it's true. People judge books by their covers. Of course, great art will never replace an exciting concept or innovative game design/concepts, so those will remain at the heart of everything that sets (and will set) Rhune: Dawn of Twilight apart from all other 3rd party products.

I have a lot in store for 2012, and while I've remained "quiet" for recently, that shouldn't alarm anyone. Rhune: Dawn of Twilight continues to move forward. Until then, keep your eyes peeled.

Jaye, 16 July 2011

I can't sing enough praises when it comes to Jon Roberts (owner of Fantastic Maps). As many of you know, Jon has been Rhune: Dawn of Twilight's sole cartographer and his work is nothing less than amazing. Not only has he brought life to cities that only lived in my mind's eye, he's done so in a way that's so vivid that I can't wait to share them! I want to badly to horde them, believe me! But I know it would be a real shame if I did. 

These maps are just to amazing... too fantastic not to share. Without further adú, I give you the dwarven City of Redwll!

The City of Redwall

Alignment LN

Population 18,500

Clockwork elves (5%), dwarves (80%), humans (10%), others (5%)

Jarl of Clan Redwall, City Elder (LN male dwarven aristocrat 4/fighter 11), Brigit the Shield Warden (LG female dwarven aristocrat 5/cavalier 8), Harnnik Hammerfall, High Alchemist (NG male dwarven alchemist 8/aristocrat 3/expert 4), Durham Blueblade (CG male human ranger 7/rogue 6), Vhilheim of Clan Redwall (LN male dwarven aristocrat 3/fighter 9), Karana the Stonespeaker (CG female dwarven druid 10), Tharn of Clan Blacksteel (NG male dwarven vitkarr 4/wizard 10)

            The City of Redwall is the largest dwarven city in eastern Midgard and the focal point for nearly all of the City States’ technological advancements since the Age of Progress began. Built on the western side of the Redwall Mountains, the city is famous for its mining carts, dwarven smiths, and since its discovery, dwarven blast powder. The city mines nearly all of the Redwall Mountains and makes use of extensive tunnels to connect it to the richest veins of ore. With abundant access to most of the mineral resources in eastern Midgard, the city does a brisk trade with the rest of the region.

            Rail lines connect the city to both Haven and Union City and it maintains Wagen Station – the largest rail station in all of the City-States. The Eastern Star and Hammer’s Glory both travel these lines daily. These lines enter and leave the city through its western (West Gate) and southern gates (Stone Gate) in the West Warde. Most of the city’s overland traffic – both on foot and by cart – enters the southern section of the city through the much smaller Trade Gate. The city’s largest road – The Hammered Way – connects travelers entering the Trade Gate to nearly all of the section’s neighborhoods. Numerous other entry points exist within the city, but all of these are maintained – and defended – by the various clans and are found exclusively within their family halls. Accordingly, only the dull or luckless traveler would dare enter the city through these ancestral tunnels, and only then if they could navigate the maze of mines and underground tunnels that spider out into inky, underground night.

~Jaye, May 2011

I have to be honest. I took a little break to play some World of Warcraft and I've been slacking a little bit on Rhune: Dawn of Twilight. That isn't to say I haven't been writing every week (hell, almost every day), only that I've fallen a little behind in my schedule. Nothing I can't make up, trust me. Fact is, I do a lot besides write. In reality, I'm pretty busy. In addition to writing and designing Rhune, I work on this site (although thankfully, I have a designer that does most of the heavy lifting - Thanks Chris!!), run a PbP (play-by-post) over on the Paizo boards (I'm known as the Replacement GM here), produce the new Rhune Newsletter Twilight's Dawn, and run a local tabletop game. I also run local Pathfinder Society games. Oh, and I work, too.

As you can imagine, I don't get a lot of free time to play WoW unless I just pull myself away and make it. So, every once in a while, when I'm feeling a little burnt out, that's exactly what I do. It's sort of like a local vacation, except with a lot less scotch. Mmmm... scotch. So anyway....

Feats and Traits!!

This batch actually compliments each other, so I think you'll all enjoy what I have to offer - even if it does seem to bend the rules a little!

Even More Traits [General]

You have tapped into your racial and social history, activating abilities that have long lain dormant.

Prerequisites: Additional Traits Feat

Benefit: You gain two more character traits of your choice (see Chapter 8). These traits need not be chosen from different lists, but you cannot have more than 2 total traits from any given list. You must still meet any additional qualifications for the character traits you choose.

As to those traits....

Bookworm [Social]:You spent much of your youth with your nose shoved in a book. Your insatiable curiosity opened your mind to facts about Rhune that others missed. Select 1 Knowledge skill in which you are proficient. You now gain a +1 trait bonus on skill checks related to that skill.

Deus Ex Machina [Faith]: You understand that the automata – Midgard’s own sentient clockwork machines – are as much a part of the divine plan as any of their biological creators. As a result, you tend to empathize with them and they react accordingly. You gain a +1 trait bonus to Diplomacy skill checks when dealing with automata and Diplomacy is always a class skill for you.

Storm Touched [Combat]: The distant sound of the storm is a constant reminder that Ragnarök is coming and you’ve learned to harness that sensation. Whenever you fight in stormy weather, you gain a +2 trait bonus to hit enemies in melee combat. You still suffer any miss chance penalties incurred from conditions (such as fog) that inhibit visibility.

Clockworks’ Bane [Magic]: You understand that automated creatures’ mechanical nature makes them easy to predict and use that knowledge to bypass their defenses more easily than others. You gain a +1 trait bonus to deliver touch spells in melee combat against constructs.

Jaye

It's been a while since I've updated, but I've been pretty busy. Since I last posted, I've taken on several PbP (play-by-post) games, started working on a project for Black Star Studios, and have continued working steadily on Rhune: Dawn of Twilight. I even started a newsletter (mostly for my gamers) called Twilight's Dawn (I know, I'm soooooo original) that details small bits about Rhune. I'm finding it's not just a great way to recap any given session, it's also a great way to introduce players to factions, Feats, traits, spells, and the like. Oh, and speaking of spells, check this zero level beauty!!

Æssinyr’s Blessing

School enchantment (compulsion) [mind-effecting]; Level cleric 0, oracle 0

Casting Time 1 standard action

Components DF, V

Range touch

Area or Target 1 ally

Duration instantaneous

Saving Throw none (harmless); Spell Resistance yes (harmless)

            When you cast this spell, you fill a single ally with divine inspiration, granting them a moral bonus equal to half of your Wisdom modifier (minimum 1) on the next skill check they roll.

In other, and just as exciting news, the artwork for Rhune: Dawn of Twilight, continues to come in ...and this last batch by artist Terry Maranda is, in a word, stunning. This man not only gets "Rhune" in both feel and concept, he does so with a level of honesty and commitment that the world sorely lacks. While I normally don't share private emails, I'm going to drop a small bit in, because in a few words, it truly illustrates the sort of character values he has... and I don't care how well you are with a pen, these values make all the difference!!

"Either way I really enjoyed working on it and I don't want to lie to you for just some extra cash, if you want the money back that's fine."

So, what happened? Well, in a word, I overpaid him. It was an oversight on my part, to the tune of 50% of the amount of the original commission. That's no small drop in the hat, either. In this case, he was quick to point this out and offered (as you can see above) the extra cast back immediately. I'm not rich (well, not yet at least), but I couldn't take the money back. But I couldn't just write it off, either. So, I did the only sensible thing I could. I offered to split the difference. Not only did he get half of my overpayment for his honesty, he got the other half as a down payment for his next illustration - and with work like his - he'll definitely be illustrating more of Rhune: Dawn of Twilight in the future.

In closing, the world needs more Terry Marandas! You, sir, rock!!

I'm in a lot of pain, so I'm going to make this a quick entry. In short, I pinched a nerve somewhere in my spine and laying down, walking around, sitting at my desk - all of it hurts. So, I'm on a mission to get things done in the most comfortable way possible. Today, that meant skipping work and relaxing as much as possible. I tried to get some writing done, but to be honest, I haven't been very successful. Needless to say, I decided to update the website at least.

So, here's a little look at how the runes are going to be approached in Rhune: Dawn of Twilight.

Hagalaz

Type World Rune – Rune of Midgard

Domain Storms*

ELDER RUNE

YOUNGER RUNE

Lesser Spell Key Call Lightning

            “For all the World is hidden in the seed of the hailstone, the dawn of winter. From the Great Tree does the world spring, and to the World does the Great Tree go in the dawn of twilight.”

            Hagalaz is a complex rune. Although it represents hail and the coming storm, it also represents the whole of Midgard. It is sometimes called the Seed Rune and it represents the whole of the prime material plane. It is frequently etched on the alters of stormbound druids and in places linked to wild storms.

            In addition to its normal benefits, characters that know he Hagalaz rune gain a +1 competence bonus to Survival skill checks to predict stormy weather.

Enjoy,

Jaye

A few weeks back, Paco G. Jaen of GMS Magazine  interviewed me about Rhune: Dawn of Twilight. We talked about game design, Rhune, Paizo, art, continuity, and Wizards of the Coast. It was a fun discussion and today, he posted a link to the actual Podcast. I thought I'd share. So, here you go. Enjoy.

I don't know about the rest of you, but it's a weird sensation listening to yourself talk. Every time I listen to myself, I think, "Man, I hope I write better than I speak... because I sound a lot like Int was my dump stat." Of course, I'm probably being a little rough on myself...

Oh, and because it's that time of week again, here's some more stuff from Rhune. This week? Two combat traits.

Brutal: Once per day, you may select a single target that you have engaged in melee combat. For the length of that encounter, you gain a +1 trait bonus to damage rolls against them.

Daring Acrobatics: You spent much of your youth leaping from trees, balancing on narrow ledges, and diving under moving carts just to prove you could. You dared your friends to do the same and always met similar challenges with a reckless abandon that unnerved your elders. You gain a +2 trait bonus to Acrobatics skill checks to cross a narrow surface or jump in combat and Acrobatics is always a class skill for you. 

Good gaming,

Jaye

Analyze Rune

School Divination; Level bard 0, cleric 0, sorcerer/wizard 0

Casting Time 1 standard action

Components V, S

Range Close (25 ft. + 5 ft./2 levels)

Area or Target personal

Duration 10 min/level

Saving Throw None

When cast, you gain the ability to decipher magical runes for the duration of the spell. You can read runes at a rate of 1 page (250 words) a minute or examine an equivalent-sized item (see chart). In addition, you gain a +2 insight bonus to the next Knowledge (Arcana) skill check you make to identify the rune's effect. This spell does not, however, allow you to activate the runes, although it may cause you to trigger traps and glyphs that target the reader as normal.

Pages                        Object                                                Time to read

1                        1 small-sized object                        1 minute

2                        1 medium-sized object            2 minutes

4                        1 large-sized object                        4 minutes 

AND... just to keep things interesting, here's a Trait, too!

Rune Touched: You heard the call to study the runes since you were a young child. Their ancient shapes hold mysterious power that compels you to this day. Select a rune. Whenever you cast a spell that uses this rune as a key, increase the DC of that spell by 1. If the spell is beneficial and does not require a save, increase its duration by 1 round instead.

Enjoy!

Jaye

Darren Calvert never ceases to amaze me. I first discovered Darren while he was illustrating Six Arabian Nights for Wolfgang Baur's Open Design. I knew I wanted him to work on Rhune and I was very pleased when he agreed. That was well over a year ago and I've since employed Darren for a large bulk of my illustrations, including the logo for Rhune: Dawn of Twilight. 

Darren has been the consummate professional at every corner and I look forward to years more of his amazing work.

~Jaye

Over the course of this year, I'm going to releasing gobs (yes, I said gobs) of material for Rhune: Dawn of Twilight. Most of this material is older, stuff I wrote before the Pathfinder rules were firmly etched into the minds of the gaming community and has since been revised. Some of it is newer material. In either case, it is material that you can throw into your games without much issue. If you like the factions or groups associated with it, by all means, use them. If you have something similar, attach it to your homebrew version instead. 

Here are the first two Feats. It's attached to a small faction called the Ashen Convenant. More information about this faction will appear in the future.

Ashen Covenant Initiate [Society]

            After long months of study with the Ashen Covenant, you learn secrets that make your magic more potent.

Prerequisite: Ability to cast the arcane spells Halt Undead, Hold Person, Suggestion, and Vampiric Touch. Diplomacy 5 ranks. Character must be lawful. Character must be invited to join the Ashen Covenant by a member in good standing.

Benefit: You become a member of the Ashen Covenant. Add a +1 to the DC of any spells you cast from the schools of Enchantment and Necromancy. Furthermore, you gain a +2 to caster level checks to overcome the spell resistance of undead creatures you target when casting spells from those two schools.

Master of the Covenant [Society]

            Years of dedicated study among the enchanter-necromancers have given you a unique insight into the nature of the spirit, making it easier for you to control both the living and the dead.

Prerequisite: Ability to cast 5th level arcane spells; Diplomacy 10 ranks, Spellcraft 10 ranks; Ashen Covenant Initiate.

Benefit: You can target undead creatures with enchantment spells that normally only affect living creatures.

Normal: Undead creatures are immune to spells from the school of Enchantment.

Enjoy,

Jaye

Today Paco G. Jaen of GMS Magazine  interviewed me about Rhune: Dawn of Twilight. It was a fun discussion. We discussed game design, my various projects, and my vision for Rhune. We spent nearly an hour on the interview - talking about everything from design companies to the Edition Wars. We spent another 20 minutes after the fact chatting about gaming and various conventions. 

Getting to talk about Rhune: Dawn of Twilight in a live interview was definitely fun. I definitely look forward to talking about the setting more in the future! When the Podcast is done, I'll share a link to everyone can have a listen.

Cheers,

Jaye

When I posted last, I gave everyone a quick peak at the rough sketches for the Ragnarök Clock. Well, I took 11 days vacation, went to Thailand, and when I came back, Mr. Terry Maranda had this little gem waiting for me. My reply was understandably vulgar, but only in the most positive way possible. In short, I replied, "That's F'n awesome!!" I still very pleased with what he designed and am very glad to have him on my team. He's an amazing artist!

~Jaye

I'll jump right to the link.

The Gunslinger, Ninja, and Samurai

The Gunslinger - After my first read, I love the gunslinger. Unfortunately, the firearms rules Paizo is going to be using differ slightly from what I've designed for Rhune. However, because this setting is designed to support the mechanics Paizo puts out (even when I don't agree with them 100%), I'm willing to write them in as alternatives or work-arounds. From what I've seen, they're not incredibly popular at the moment, but this is the case with most design issues. There's always two camps. One supporting the "realism" of the rule and one gingerly pointing out that we're playing a game with wizards casting spells. Both good points. I'm going to make an attempt to ensure they meet in the middle. As it stands, I'm going to support the rules as they stand. I trust Paizo's design team and I'm sure GMs that don't agree will do their own thing anyway. Such is the realm of RPGs.

The only "big issue" I have with the Gunslinger is the two free pistols or rifle at character generation. Considering that guns in Rhune are relatively rare and pretty expensive, this could be a major issue. My immediate response it to design a simple, cheaper firearm that fills this role. A gun on training wheels. It will probably be a second-hand item, something from initial era of firearm designs that doesn't have multiple shots, doesn't used cased ammunition, and still has a chance to misfire (a rule I was planning on introducing in Rhune as an option). While it means a little more design work on my part, it'll make acquiring some of the better firearms in Rhune all that more magical.

The Ninja - I love them. I can't use them, at least in name. Rhune isn't a kitchen sink setting and it's never intended to be. It's a modified steampunk setting with a heavy focus on Ragnarök, runes, and all things northern. It's about giants, Thrall Lords, and heroes that brave the fight till the bitter end. It's about heroes screaming "Walhalla" as they cross the Rainbow Bridge (or pass through the Bifrost Gate). It's not about eastern mystics, noble samurai, or ninjas. Herein lies the problem. I really, really like the ninja. 

I'll probably have to write them in as assassins, which works especially well for factions like The Black Hand, The Veiled, or any number of Aryandai hunters. But they won't be eastern in origin. They'll be rogues with a very specific type of training. 

You're probably wondering why I haven't commented on the Magus from the Ultimate Magic playtest. Well, simply put, it didn't impress me and I didn't consider putting it into Rhune. Sure, people can play them, but I'd suggest GMs treat them like wizards. As for the "words of power," there isn't much to say. The mechanic is very close to what I've been designing for the runes themselves, so that will probably fold into Rhune pretty seamlessly. 

Of course, if I'm actually going to get any of this done this century, I need to get back to writing and put away the blog. So, there. Go play some games.

Cheers,

Jaye

I'm going to make this short and sweet. I've got my hands on some incredible concept art for Rhune:Dawn of Twilight and I have to share. Take a peak!

~Jaye

If you haven't done so, I'd like to invite my readers to check out Kobold Quarterly #16. It's a great issue that's getting rave reviews from the RPG community on a number of fronts - from blogs to review sites. I'm pretty keen on it, too. Of course, I'm a little biased. I wrote one of the feature articles (The Clockwork Adept), which is a prestige class I designed for Rhune: Dawn of Twilight. You'll see a modified version in the future, but you're more than welcome to use the one there in your Rhune game.

Secondly, I'm making a point to keep the site up to date with information from the Character Primer. In fact, I've just recently updated all of the races to include the racial traits on site. I'll be making additional changes to the site over the coming spring. I don't want to put too much here, because honestly, I'd like you to download the Primer and play! But, for simplicity's sake, I'm going to streamline what I can.

I'm also going to start building a section on site that will include a small portion of the world, detailing cities, NPCs, and factions. I may focus entirely on the dwarven City of Redwall, especially now that Jon Roberts is working his cartography magic on it. I know this man's work and I have high hopes for it. Oh, and if you're a fan of China Miéville, Redwall is going to offer you a surprise you'll enjoy. I wouldn't quite call it an easter egg, but it's certainly a nod of respect in his direction.

(Speaking of great writers, if you haven't done so, check out Scott Lynch. His was also a big influence on Rhune: Dawn of Twilight.)

Okay, that's that. I've got a ton of writing ahead of me and I need to get it done!! So, until then, keep coming back and checking up on the blog. Rhune: Dawn of Twilight is going to rock 2011. 

Cheers,

Jaye,

Jan 17th, 2011

Amersil

Government: Elder Oracle

Alignment: CG

Population 1,250

Ælves (98%), others (2%)

Lady Armannia Flowers, Grace of the Sil (LG female ælven oracle 8), Sir Re’Nynn of the Feywood (CG male ælven ranger 5).

            Amersil is a small, southern ælven outpost south of the Feywood that overlooks the Southern Ocean. As one of the last ælven outposts before the Great Ælven Highlands spill over into the lower lands, this outpost is highly militarized and on constant watch for foreign intrusions. The ælves here spend a lot of time watching the fishing boats that set out from Ealdheim, ensuring that none of them land on the eastern coasts. The ælves have well over a dozen pitfalls and other traps should the boats enter the unnamed bay to their east.

            Amersil is guided by Grace Armannia Flowers, an accomplished oracle who has traveled to Oracle Lake and bathed in its waters. She displays an impressing understanding of both the winds and waters. The sil is also watched over by a small contingent of Greengard led by Sir Re’Nynn and can call on their northern fey allies in the case the sil appears threatened beyond their capable hands.

            Although remote, Amersil is famous for its honey-wines and sweet breads.

There are many more cities in the works, but feel free to use this one in your game today!!

Well, when I updated last, I was suspended in ambition, excitement, and uncertainty. Why? Because I was approached about a potential job in Seattle, Washington that I couldn't talk about. At least at the time. Honestly, I was so excited by the thought that I was pretty much a complete wreck. 

In October, I was asked to submit my resumé for a design/development position at Paizo Publishing, LLC. The thought of working with the awesome people that make Pathfinder Roleplaying Game left me more than a little giddy. It actually left me speechless (which is an accomplishment, considering my capacity for running my yap). Of course, I couldn't share it with anyone because the position wasn't being advertised to the public. So, I just had to sit on the excitement. Let me tell you, it was pure agony.

Well, here I am, nearly two months later. Paizo has hired a very talented designer and is deathly quiet about a new developer. I'm still curious as to who they'll pick. Obviously, I'd love for them to hire me (even if it's a big pay cut). Realistically, it will probably be someone in the Seattle area that will take less money than I will - and that's going to be very cool for one lucky game developer. What does it mean for me? Another year or two in Kuwait, I imagine. But that's not so bad, really. I have a lot of work to do! I might even drop something special for RPG Superstar 2011. At least I know I'm on Paizo's radar...

~Jaye

Well, I can't really say anything. It sucks. But if it pans out, this is potentially very awesome news. All I can do is hold my breath and hope for the best. If it does pan out, you'll be the first to know. Crosses fingers. 

So, you’re thinking of starting a Pathfinder Campaign set in the Rhune: Dawn of Twilight setting? Not sure where to begin? Well, let me give you some options that I think will excite the senses and broaden your use of the setting.

If you’re thinking about creating a sandbox for the players to explore, stay in eastern Midgard. There are many well-populated cities in the Kingdom of Vallinar that experience the traditional social problems; issues that incorporate underground cults, bandits, slave traders, and corrupt nobles as enemies of the state are common. Of course, the distinct level of technology in and around the city makes for a great story, too. One clockwork adept might easily hire adventurers to uncover a rival’s secret project, or worse, destroy it. Or, the City-States themselves might have secrets PCs are paid to uncover or hide.

Moving outside of the Kingdom of Vallinar, the players find more traditional roles at play. The industrious dwarves to the east, especially around Redwall Mountain – complete with their guns and Red Mithral – makes for an interesting place to explore. Or, if you’re interested in something a little more rugged and alien, the jungles of the Aryandai offer a series of web bound kingdoms to explore. Of course, the biggest places to explore in the immediate area are the ruined cities themselves. The ruins of both South Pointe and Way Pointe are filled with artifacts, undead, and danger. There is no telling what treasures lay within, or who might be willing to pay to get their hands on them.

If you move to the west, you have the Old Holds. Most of these ruined forts stand sentry over vast, empty fields. Some, however, are still occupied. Savage cannibals, bandits, and even rogue necromancers might make these forts their havens. Or, in worse cases, completely sane men might lord unlawfully over peasants that are little more than serfs. Even further to the west, you have Ælveheim with its own mysteries and secrets. While an attempt to sneak into the ælven homeland – the forest of Moonwalde – might be exciting. It might also be deadly.

Moving north, you have a series of small forts, towns, and villages that might all call on heroes to deal with local menaces, wandering monsters, and raiding barbarians. While the Thrall Lords have not sent their minions south to raid in many moons, there is absolutely no reason why PCs might not face them. And for those brave enough, heading north to the Pale Tower – it’s mysterious nature shrouded in ice and illusions – is always an option as well.

Rhune: Dawn of Twilight is a big place! Just staying on Midgard offers you a series of exciting locations to visit. Of course, exploring the Great Tree itself in a series of planar adventures is always an option, too. Particularly inventive GMs might even toss the players into the shadowy realm of Nachtland, a blighted and muted copy of Midgard.

Need some more potential adventure seeds? Try these:

• A noblewoman from House Tre’Ashen is offering a reward for a series of magical scrolls she believes survived the destruction of South Pointe. She claims she will pay handsomely for proof, and even more for the actual scroll.
• Bandits have been ravaging the Village of Skor south of Witch Hill. Villagers have requested help, but the closest major city is Vallingard and it cannot spare the help. Worse, rumors of strange lights atop Witch Hill dissuade the smaller cities of Westholme and Harhagen from sending aid.
• Crazed dwarves have been raiding the Village of Illr, driving its helpless residents into the bay. No one knows why and all reports presented to the City of Redwall have been ignored. Dwarven troops, however, have been seen taking the trains north toward Union City.
• Crescent Keep has suddenly grown quiet …well, quieter than usual. Many fear the knights there have come under some strange magic. Clerics of Velluna Akka are moving west to investigate.
• Members of the Brotherhood of the Wraith have been spotted riding out of the Haven City. The guard gave pursuit, but disappeared. The city is calling on experts and heroes to investigate.
• Members of the Clockwork Accord are seeking parts from automata that served in the Battle of Balkrfield and from any automata that still litter the Fields of Ruin. They haven’t said why.
• A series of villagers have taken shelter in Lakeside, claiming ælves from the west have been raiding their village.
• The Order of the Grand Lodge is looking to extend its numbers and influences. It seeks brave, noble, and experienced men at arms that are willing to battle both bandits and renegades alike. Most major cities have a booth where PCs can sign up.
• Clerics from the Church of Alnara are seeking protection as they travel to a far off outpost. The journey will be long, but they have offered a small fortune for those willing to brave it.
• Ghosts have been seen in the Westwald and the few lumberjacks still willing to brave the area are going missing. Members of House Scræ are offering a small reward for even more information. House Blackwood, however, has other plans…
• Barbarians from the North have been raiding as far south as the Village of Valaheim. A small army from the City of Damas has formed, but more aid is needed. The heroes are commissioned to help, even if they don’t want to.
• A lone witch stumbles into an inn and recites a prophecy, naming one of the PCs before dying.
• Several Vitkarr, although masters of the runes themselves, have become ill when exposed to certain rune stones. Those not working with the runes seem immune. A small selection of their fellows is offering a substantial reward for more information.

Here's a look at four traits that you can use in your game! While these are designed for Rhune: Dawn of Twilight, they can easily be transferred to another campaign setting with ease. 

Daring Acrobatics: You spent much of your youth leaping from trees, balancing on narrow ledges, and diving under moving carts just to prove you could. You dared your friends to do the same and always met similar challenges with a reckless abandon that unnerved your elders. You gain a +2 trait bonus to Acrobatics skill checks to cross a narrow surface or jump in combat and Acrobatics is always a class skill for you.

Initiate of the Clockwork Accord: As a young adult, you studied under a clockwork adept who taught you several magical secrets about how automata function. Pick 1 arcane spell. When you cast this spell against automata or constructs, increase the DC by 2. Once you select this spell, it cannot be changed.

Spider’s Friend (Aryandai only): As a child, you spent a lot of time training spiders as pets and bonded with them quicker than most of your siblings or friends. You gain a +2 trait bonus to Handle Animal checks to rear wild spiders (and only spiders) and Handle Animal is always a class skill for you.

Song of Urda (Dwarf only): You were born during the season of Urda and your elders taught you her song at a young age. Once per day you can sing this song to strengthen the resilience of your fellow dwarves, granting all dwarven allies within 30 ft. a +2 trait bonus to Fort saves against poison. You start this song as a move action and can maintain it for up to 1 minute as a free action. Once you stop the song, it’s effects end. Once selected, you cannot choose Song of Skuld or Song of Verdandi as a racial trait.

I've a lot more traits in development and expect to release something substantial by the early next year. Until then, enjoy. 

Cheers,

Jaye

I just wanted to share some more of Darren's art! You're looking at the national crests for Ælveheim, Redwall, and Rhuneheim.

I've been jumping around a lot, working a number of different areas of Rhune: Dawn of Twilight. When I updated last, I was working on campaign specific Traits. I've also been refining the mechanics for runes, which has turned into a small project itself. In addition, I've been fooling around with a few of the Prestige Classes (specifically the Clockwork Adept) for possible publication in Kobold Quarterly. Right now, that's my priority. Finally, I'm building outlines for Rhune specific faction guides. I hope to release them bi-monthly. As usual, all of this content will be free!

I'm also working with Darren Calvert, Hugo Solis and Jon Roberts on some new art!! I hope to have it up by the end of the month!

I'm a little upset about the situation on the forums. I spent all this time (alongside my other designer) setting up the forums and now no one is using them. The only people posting are spammers, and I'm kicking them off as soon as they sign up. So, it's quiet. I guess I shouldn't really complain, though. Rhune: Dawn of Twilight has been getting a slow start and the forums reflect that. I just had hoped some of my friends (and my local gamers) would have jumped on and made use of the forums. I suppose if I used them for my current campaign....

...and speaking of campaigns, I've got to tip my hat to Paizo, LLC again for turning out another amazing campaign arc. The Serpent's Skull is turning out to be an amazing story. Not only is it frustrating my players, it's providing me with hours or player vs. environment practice. I think that will reflect in some of my future design work, too.

Well, that's it for now. Until next time, here's a quick look at some of the guns Darren Calvert whipped up for Rhune: Dawn of Twilight!

Well, I've been back in Kuwait for about three weeks now and I'm getting back into the swing of things. This means I'll be making regular updates, hopefully with content. First, however, is getting the last batch of edits done (alongside the errata) on the Stormpunk Character Primer so I can get it up on site (and ready for print on demand). Look for this to release by Halloween at the latest.

After that, there will be a small pdf on traits in Rhune. Some of this material is already on the forums. Then, we'll be looking at another .pdf on the runes with suggestions for GMs. I hope to have both available by Yule.

I've other projects in the works, as well. There are prestige classes, information on several of the prominent nations/factions, and several more batches of professional illustrations in the works. Also, Jon Roberts is working on a map of the Great Tree. Knowing his work, we all have something to be excited about.

Overall, I'm excited about the fall. Paizo has a lot of cool items coming out, specifically the Book of the Damned - Lords of Chaos and the Bestiary 2, both out in November. I can hardly wait. Finally, Wizards of the Coast has a new set of miniatures that releases this month. The Lords of Madness is fairly Realms-centric, but looks like it has a few gems I could use in Rhune nonetheless. I'm especially excited about the item figs!

Finally, the forums. They're slowly starting to come together, but participation is limited. I had tons of people sign up while I was away at Gen Con, but most of them turned out to be spammers. My other administrator had a lot of cleaning to do, and in the process, many of the pages were set to "Read Only" as a result. This was brought to my attention today and has subsequently been fixed. Hopefully, participation will pick up. The other problem I'm having is keeping the spammers OFF the forums. Right now, I'm personally approving members... which means I'm emailing unknowns and requiring they confirm they intended to sign up. Most of the emails bounce back and the members are rejected. Several have yet to respond. So, if you're trying to join the forums, check your email! Look for something from Michael S. (an alias on site) related to Rhune and respond!! We'd love to have you!!

Jaye

Gen Con 2010 was good. I finally met with a lot of the other designers from KQ, including Wolfgang Baur, Ben McFarland, Brandon Hodge, and Clinton Boomer. I also had the honor of meeting Monte Cook, Bruce Cordell, Tim Hitchcock, and Liz Courts. Everyone was very cool. And again, I managed to miss the end of Con dance. Maybe one of these years.

Of course, the launch of Rhune was the big deal for me. I didn't have a booth, so I just passed out cards and gave away free copies of the game. A lot of people asked when it would be available for purchase, but I continue to keep it as a free download. I may make a print on demand version available after all of the errata is incorporated. 

For now, that's all I have to say. Check back. 

September 3rd, 2010

~Jaye

I just spent several hours pouring over the final draft of the character primer. Once these changes are made, it'll go live. It's still a little hard to believe. In a way, I feel like I did when I saw my name in print for the very first time. It was a simple article for Kobold Quarterly, but it was like magic. I was both enchanted and empowered. I had moved beyond "when I get published" to "bam, I've been published!" 

I'd be lying if I said it didn't continue to move me. Not only is Kobold Quarterly and awesome publication, it's where I got my start. Of course, it led me to Open Design, amazing writers, and a series of lessons that would give me the tools to get to this point, today. Not only is Open Design about creating cool adventures and products that wow gamers, it's a place to learn. It can be painful at times, but the skills that you learn to polish are worth it. You learn to be precise, clear, and active. If you're thinking about learning to design games, this should be your first stop. Obviously, it wasn't my only resource. Stephen King's On Writing is another gem that comes highly recommended. If you haven't, read it. The Elements of Style is another must read.

That isn't to say I'm some fancy, polished writer. I've still a long way to go and I know that this is only the beginning. But it's a fun beginning and I'll be damned if I'm not going to enjoy every minute of it.

Knowing the game releases tomorrow means a host of feelings. I'm nervous ("goodness, I hope this doesn't bomb..."), excited ("wait till you guys see this.."), relieved ("Can I play some more WoW now?"), and prideful ("I did it"). It's my little storm in the teacup and I'm okay with it. I'm cherishing it. It'll be something to take home with me. It'll also be much easier to go into my vacation knowing it's done. I've put my best foot forward. 

Of course, I know this is only the beginning. I've so much more to tell you. I've such sites to show you...

~Jaye, July 26th, 2010

If you didn't know, Jon Roberts did all of the maps (so far) for Rhune: Dawn of Twilight. He recently did a show in NY displaying his work and the map of Midgard was there! You can check out his gallery here!!

http://fantasticmaps.wordpress.com/2010/07/10/a-gallery-show/

I'm sure every game master or designer has, if for no other reason than to amuse himself (or his audience), planted a few Easter Eggs in his game. In the professional design world, I'm told it's a BIG "No, No" that can lead to all sorts of legal problems. You're not encouraged to base villains off coworkers (even when it's fun), to name spells or Feats after band songs, or to build encounters from your favorite movie. Inspiration is great and all, but if it evokes that, "I've heard/read/seen this before..." feeling in your audience, it's probably not a smart move.

Fortunately for me, I've got some pretty cool friends that are amused by the idea of being villains and heroes. I don't have to sweat the potential backlash that comes from turning them into nasferatu sorcerers, knights, or wandering skalds from Westholme. I don't have to worry about what they're going to say when I marry them off to their long term girlfriends or give them the pox (sometimes in both instances). I just get to write and have fun with it.

Of course, you need to show some restraint when you do. This isn't something you go wild with. You certainly don't populate your entire setting on your friends, either (which would start to approach weird in a big way). You have to be selective, and when you do act, let them discover those small gems. Or, if you share them, keep things small.

I think most people like being part of these things, especially when they appreciate the creative side of design work. They like to see the stats, see how you perceive them, and where you're willing to take them in a completely make-believe world. In short, it gratifies the ego. 

But then again, so does designing and publishing your very own world....

The Glimmering

This is the realm of Alnara. It is a place filled with gentle streams, rolling fields, and ancient forests. While architecture is rare here, the few monuments that do exist tend to be light and flowing, employing thin arches and even thinner spires.

The Middle Court

The Void

Alien dreams and lost desires fill this empty, ethereal realm. It is the source of the Thrall Lords’ power. A place of entropy and decay, Neinferth is the only realm not directly connected to the Great Tree. 

The Fel

This is the home of Felhorath and the dark future that awaits Rhune should the Thrall Lords win Ragnarök. Filled with burning and smashed ruins of Midgard, Grimhæm is a hell-swept wasteland.

Deep Hold

War and progress poison this realm. Tieferhæm represents a dark, costly win for the Æssinyr. This realm is all but broken. Only a handful of havens offer refuge to the survivors of Ragnarök. Clockwork technology is highly advanced here.

Hel

This is the realm of the D’iessha, where only the dead dwell. Thodheim is a realm divided. The Red Queen usurped most of this traditional resting place of the dead, turning it into her personal workshop.

All Winter

Forbidden to all of the Æssinyr and nearly all of the Thrall Lords, Niflæheim is a frozen realm encased in primordial ice. Mhamnoch stirs here, caught in a lucid dream, awaiting the All Winter to wake him. 

The Forrest Unburning

Hidden in the heart of the Great Tree, this is the home of the Æssinyr and their most trusted servants. Untouched by the shadow of Ragnarök, this realm is a place of primordial beauty.

Midgard is a dangerous world filled with cannibalistic barbarians, thrall-bound giants, and strange clockworks. While most of these are limited to specific regions, some wander wider paths, threatening any and all that cross them. Accordingly, most of the monsters found in the Pathfinder® Roleplaying Game Bestiary™ will fit nicely in the setting. A select few, however, aren’t a good fit for Midgard. Dragons, for instance, don’t exist on Midgard (only the world serpent, Midgardsormur and its spawn –wyvern – comes close). Other creatures, like nagas, simply don’t fit the feel of Rhune: Dawn of Twilight. While GMs are welcome to use whatever monsters they like, the following creatures are better suited for realms beyond Midgard:

            Aboleth, ankheg, ape (gorilla and dire), archon (all), bebilith, bulette, choker, chuul, cloaker, couatl, demon (marilith), devil (bone), dinosaur (all), dragon (all), dragon turtle, drider, froghemoth, genie (all), gibbering mouther, girallon, half-dragon (any), intellect devourer, lamia, lich, lizardfolk, mantis (giant), medusa, mimic, mohrg, mummy, naga (all), neothelid, oni (all), pegasus, pseudodragon, purple worm, rakasha, retriever, roc, roper, rust monster, salamander, sahuagin, shoggoth, skum, slug (giant), sphinx, tarrasque, tengu, unicorn, vampire, vargouille, xill, and xorn.

            Beyond Midgard, the Great Tree offers endless potentials for unique and alien encounters. Many of the monsters omitted above might be added back in these planes, but even then, GMs are likely to pull away from the feel of Rhune: Dawn of Twilight. In addition, the following creatures are excellent additions to any campaign set in Rhune: Dawn of Twilight.

            Allip, hag (annis), nixie, shadow mastiff – Pathfinder Bonus Bestiary

            Blodeuwedd, cyclops (Great), stygira – Pathfinder Adventure Path #33

            Trollhound – Pathfinder Adeventure Path #32

            Drekavac, elk, tatzlwyrm, thawn – Pathfinder Adventure Path #31

            Ebon acolytus, hell giga – Pathfinder Adventure Path #30

            Nihiloi – Pathfinder Adventure Path #29

            Idols, Lar – Pathfinder Adventure Path #27

            Graveknight – Pathfinder Adventure Path #26

            Gremlin (haniver), shadowgarm, strix – Pathfinder Adventure Path #25

            Brass golem – Pathfinder Adventure Path #24

            Gremlins – Pathfinder Adventure Path #19

            Banshee, mandragora – Pathfinder Adventure Path #17

            Blast shadow, cutlass spider  – Pathfinder Adventure Path #15

            Akata (and Void Zombies), Siren – Pathfinder Adventure Path #14

            Monstrous cockroach, swamp barracuda – Pathfinder Adventure Path #13

            Chained spirit, danse macabre – Pathfinder Adventure Path #11

            Bonestorm, cinder wolf – Pathfinder Adventure Path #10

            Giant fly, giant maggot, nosferatu – Pathfinder Adventure Path #8

            Devilfish, dream spider, doll (soulbound) – Pathfinder Adventure Path #7

            Crag spider, hungerer, rune giant – Pathfinder Adventure Path #6

            Marsh giant, witchfire – Pathfinder Adventure Path #5

            Deathweb, redcap, taiga giant, scanderig, runeslaver – Pathfinder Adventure Path #4

            Smoke haunt, ogrekin – Pathfinder Adventure Path #3

            Carrionstorm, lyrakien, revenant – Pathfinder Adventure Path #2

            Attic whisperer, goblin snake – Pathfinder Adventure Path #1

            Bone crab, drowned maiden – Sunken Empires

Alien and ancient, the aryandai are a race of shape changers that assume the form of spiders. Known as ‘Spiderkin’ to the humans of the City-States of Vallinar – or as Weavers to the ælves and dwarves – they dwell primarily on the Aryandai Peninsula in Southern Midgard.

No one is certain how old the aryandai truly are, but ælven mythspeakers say the goddess Velluna-Akka created the aryandai to hunt her enemies after her children rebelled. Whether or not this is true, the aryandai glorify Velluna-Akka above all others and all hunt in her name.

Aryandai Racial Traits

+2 Strength, +2 Constitution, -2 Charisma

Aryandai are strong and durable, but they’re alien nature unnerves outsiders.

Medium: Aryandai are medium creatures that have no bonuses or penalties due to their size. 

Normal Speed: Aryandai have a base speed of 30 feet.

Darkvision: Aryandai can see in the dark up to 60 feet. 

Nightwalker: Aryandai receive a +4 racial bonus on Stealth skill checks at night

Spider Empathy: This ability functions as the druid’s wild empathy, save that aryandai can only use this ability on spiders, with a +4 racial bonus on this check. While normal spiders are mindless, this empathic communication gives them a modicum of implanted intelligence, allowing aryandai to train giant spiders and use them as guardians.

Spider Form: Aryandai can transform themselves into a Giant Spider (see the Pathfinder® Roleplaying Game Bestiary™) a number of rounds per day equal to their Constitution score. These rounds need not be consecutive. They do not gain the Giant Spider’s poisonous bite.

Languages: Aryandai begin play speaking Aryandai and Low Common. Aryandai with high Intelligence scores may choose from the following languages: Auran, Glittertongue, Goblin, Low elven, and Sylvan.

The Crone

Other titles: The Veiled Lady, The Lady of Night, Queen of the Moon

Alignment: NG

Description: Velluna-Akka is arguably the darkest of the Æssinyr, a reputation her priestesses do little to dissuade. Her title, in ælven, means ‘his dark reflection’ and many believe she is the black space that gave birth to the very stars.

Old Forge Father

Other titles: The Even Handed, The Old Inn Keeper in the Sky, The Shining First

Alignment: LG

Description: Velash is credited as the creator of the dwarven race and is frequently depicted as the lawful twin of Hothur. As Old Forge Father, Velash is the patron god of smiths and those that wield the hammer to create. He is also the patron of dwarven communities, liberation, fire, and law.

The Oak King

Other titles: The All Father, The Stave Master, The Hanged God

Alignment: LN

Description: Oridynn occupies several roles among the Æssinyr and is especially popular as the Hanged God, where he fills the role of ‘he who sacrifices himself on the Great Tree.’ He is a god of self-knowledge, magic, secrets, and most notably, the runes.

The Blue Maiden

Other titles: Queen of the Waters, Lady Luck, Champion of the Chalice

Alignment: CG

Description: Nayadia is the youngest of the three goddesses and is beloved by all, especially the ælves. She represents youth, vitality, luck, charm, and unearthly grace. She is frequently depicted rising from the waves, atop dolphins, hoisting a shinning trident to the sun

I think one of the signs of 'design fatigue' is the temptation to toss everything plus the kitchen sink into your project. You know what I'm talking about. if you don't, here's a bit of help. Design fatigue results in that campaign setting that features tiefling ninjas riding dinosaurs OR cowboy robots from the Civil War that uses hex magic from the Vodoun Book of the Dead Names.

(Either that, or the designers have questionable taste. Or, maybe they've just found a niche I'm not willing to explore. I don't know).

What I do know is this; design fatigue = burnout. To get past this, you need to take time away from your project and to space out. I like getting the occasional massage, which I think clears and refreshes the mind. I also think immersing yourself in physical activities (I like swimming laps) is a good method for tuning out. I think staying away from the cerebral realms designers tend to enjoy (including various forms of media) is just solid advice. Get out, have a walk, play with your dog, or enjoy some iced tea in the park. But get out and move.

I'm not sure about other writers/designers, but sitting behind these screens all day can't be good for us.

Location: Kuwait   Date: 11 July, 2010

I think my experience reading Dungeon and Dragon Magazines shaped a lot of what would be the foundation for Rhune: Dawn of Twilight. Really, both magazines introduced me to a countless list of interesting villains, places, and ideas. I still remember, quite fondly, reading Tim and Elieen Connors’ Siege of the Spider Eaters (Dungeon 137). Not only did that little gem partially inspire the aryandai of Rhune, it encouraged me to move away from the popular monsters I had grown comfortable with. Wolfgang Baur’s Kingdom of the Ghouls (Dungeon Magazine 70) similarly inspired Rhune, albeit the eventual direction I took with my ghouls resembles Persian myth (and Lovecraft’s work) more. In fact, I think my well-worn copy of The Dream-Quest of Unknown Kadath is proof enough of that. ;)

Suffice it to say, I still miss both Dungeon and Dragon magazines. Paizo Publishing did a great job with them. Their move to an online-only format provided solely through DnDinsider still saddens me. 

Location: My office in Kuwait Date: July 10th, 2010

Yeah, so I’m supposed to be writing in my blog. At least that’s what my website manager keeps telling me. ;)

I suppose I should talk about how Rhune: Dawn of Twilight got here. How was Rhune born? What was the inspiration? Why would any man attempt such a thing?

The Short version: Rhune: Dawn of Twilight was born in 2006, in an infamous coffee shop known as Aghora in Houston, Texas. It started as a conversation about heroic archetypes, online and tabletop gaming, and their shared lineage. It was an easy conversation, the type that flows effortlessly between participants. At the time, I was just starting to submit material to Dragon Magazine. Frustrated that none of it was going to print, I was learning an important lesson that every writer learns to live with – rejections.  On one particular evening, those little rejections had me a little blue when my buddy Tom asked me, “Why don’t you just write your own game?”

I knew then – as I know now – I wasn’t interested in developing a whole new system of mechanics. But my buddy was right. I did have some very particular ideas and concepts that I wanted to share with the world. So, I did what every gamer does. I grabbed a blank notebook and started making notes.

This would go on for several years. After a while, the notebook moved to my laptop and the notes moved to a small, out of the way folder. I’d update them here and there, adding details about how I wanted to work. I knew I wanted it to have a strong Norse influence, but with a 19^th century feel. At the time, I was returning to some old grounds – particularly Mask of the Red Death – and I knew I wanted a dark side, too. 

Then I moved to Kuwait, started working with Wolfgang Baur’s Open Design, and learned a few things. I started to write a little better, too. I returned to my notes.

In late 2008, I made up my mind. I was going to breathe life into Rhune: Dawn of Twilight. I started to write. I’ve been punching keys since.

Rhune: Dawn of Twilight was influenced by some of what I feel is the best steampunk and sci-fi has to offer. I could list a lot, but I’m going with the the following influences because they come to mind immediately: China Miéville’s Perdido Street Station and King Rat, Privateer Press’s Iron Kingdoms setting, Scott Lynch’s The Lies of Locke Lamora, Gregory Maguire’s Wicked, The Second Renaissance, Parts 1 & 2 (from the Animatrix), Runelore by Edred Thorsson, Howl’s Moving Castle, all of the Myst games, and the music of VNV Nation.

Why would I write Rhune: Dawn of Twilight? It’s a huge evil plot. I’d love to tell you more, but then I’d have to involve secret societies, historical secrets, and Nicolas Cage – wait, that’s the plot to National Treasure. My bad.

Old Thorn Hammer

Other titles: The Fury, The Golden Knight, Arensyl the Mistlord

Alignment: CG

Description: Hothur is the patron god of dwarven warriors and those that wield the hammer to destroy. In this aspect, he is the chaotic twin of Velash, who wields his hammer to create. He is an old god and frequently associated with cleansing fires.

Our Lady of Mercy

Other titles: The All Mother, Bright Star, Queen of Heaven

Alignment: NG

Description: While Alnara is known by many names, her title “The Lady of Mercy,” is the most widely used. Throughout the City-States of Vallinar she is famous as a protector of women, young children, and those dealt unfortunate lots in life.

The Holy Sun

Other titles: Lord of the First Light, The White God

Alignment: NG

Description: Dægr is beloved by many and is worshipped widely by the people of the City-States of Vallinar. He is Vallingard’s patron deity and the Tre’Vallinar family has long held him in high regard. Among the common people of the City-States, he represents knowledge, glory, and liberation from the Thrall Lords.