The Last Dominion Campaign Setting

[Eosin]

On the off chance that my manuscript does not make Steve pull his eyeballs out..... :bmk:

Welcome to The Last Dominion, a dark fantasy setting from Pencil Pushers Publishing.

This is the age of the Harrowing when men shall free themselves or face the Dominion of Darkness. The Last Dominion is a world of conflict — religious sects, political rivals, arcane factions, and the powers of heaven and hell each battle for supremacy. Kings, knights, and champions campaign to bring the world out of a dark age as barbarians and the inhuman trollkin threaten to overwhelm them. Church patriarchs struggle to contain the growth of heretical beliefs and heal the schism of the Great Fellowship. This is a world where men versed in the powers of magic strive to retain their independence from the advancing powers of the Synod. All the while, the fetid corruption of the Adversary grows.

The Last Dominion uses HERO System, 5th Edition, Revised.

http://www.pencil-pushers.net/images/TLD_Large_low.jpg

www.pencil-pushers.net

[EDIT] Oh yeah, available in March

[Curufea]

Sounds like it will be a great resource for my current campaign! Lots of similar themes.

[Vanguard00]

What, you can't post a page or three for teaser purposes? :rolleyes:

Looks good, man. :thumbup:

[Curufea]

Actually - If you could post the contents page, that'd be very helpful.

[Hierax]

March, eh? Wow!

Congratulations! I'm looking forward to getting this!

Is it PDF hard copy or both?

[Eosin]

What, you can't post a page or three for teaser purposes? :rolleyes:

Looks good, man. :thumbup:


Actually - If you could post the contents page, that'd be very helpful.

There will be a teaser (and I will include the TOC) released in the near future. DOJ is still recouping from DunDura Con, so the final seal of approval may take a little bit. Until then, I will see about releasing a PDF teaser containing some of the concept art.

[Eosin]

March, eh? Wow!

Congratulations! I'm looking forward to getting this!

Is it PDF hard copy or both?

It will be PDF. It shouldn't be much of an issue to get Print On Demand set up to satisfy those who want a dead tree copy.

March is the plan unless I hit a snag in the approval process.

[Nolgroth]

Whoo hoo!

[Eosin]

The Last Dominion Art Preview can be found HERE (http://www.pencil-pushers.net/Artpreview.pdf)

These are the preliminary sketches. In phase 2 of design there were concepts for nationalities, weapons, evil critters, and structures. I should mention the 3 phases of design


Hey, I can do this. It looks easy. Just put these guys here and those critters over there.
Regroup… Eminent Disaster Brewing! Back to step one - sketches, setting bible, and rough-draft work. Work with an artist to get tight concepts down.
Finally, the “Get’ur done” phase.


The illustrations shown here, barring an exception or two, are not the finished interior pieces but they might give you an idea or five about what is contained in the book.

[Eosin]

The manuscript has been approved. Expect a TOC and sneak preview on Thursday.

Randy

[Nolgroth]

Say again, "Whoo hoo!" :) Congrats.

[Eosin]

Say again, "Whoo hoo!" :) Congrats.


Thanks... again!

Now if the thing would just lay itself out while I was at work. :drink:

[Edsel]

Okay. It's Thursday. I want to see that TOC.

[Eosin]

I'll get it tonight... The layout groove hit me and I couldn't stop. I had hoped no one would notice the tardiness :p On the flip side, layout is coming along in a swell fashion.

The beastly part not overdoing the art.... I have too much good stuff that I want to use.

[Curufea]

You could create just a gallery or portfolio section for "art inspired by the setting" :)

[Old Man]

I think it's hard to overuse art, if it's all good quality.

[Eosin]

Well, I tried to post it here but it doesn't look worth a hoot without a proper formating. So, here is the PDF of the TOC page instead.

[Eosin]

I think it's hard to overuse art, if it's all good quality.

I think these two represent the quality of the interior well. It has both b&w and color interior work.

http://www.pencil-pushers.net/images/Bonewalker.jpg

http://www.pencil-pushers.net/images/LeeMiddean.jpg

[keithcurtis]

Congrats Eosin!
I have wanted to see this for a long time. I bet you have too.

Keith "anticipation" Curtis

[Eosin]

Congrats Eosin!
I have wanted to see this for a long time. I bet you have too.

Keith "anticipation" Curtis

Amen Brother!

Which reminds me - three of the four large maps were done by none other than Keith Curtis!

[Eosin]

My god, I am going to make it!!!

[Vanguard00]

You go, brother!

[Eosin]

Here is a link to the preview.

Echoes of Glory Preview (http://www.pencil-pushers.net/EOG_Preview.pdf)

[Edsel]

The Last Dominion - Echoes Of Glory - PDF (https://secure.compnetco.com/herogames/browse.jsp?categoryID=7) is now for sale in Hero's Online Store. :thumbup:

[Eosin]

Wow, I was scooped on my own release! Thanks.

So, everyone should do a little jig and buy five copies. :celebrate

[Darren Watts]

Congrats, btw! Looks nice! dw

[Killer Shrike]

Picked up a copy. Will try to make time to look it over soon. Congrats!

[Vanguard00]

I bought mine, too, but haven't had a chance to sit and read. Basic perusal had me quite interested, though.

[Captain Obvious]

The teaser looks really good. If I ever remember that Hero sells PDFs when I'm ordering from them (:ugly:) I may pick it up.

Along with Solar Smith, Sidekick, and half a dozen other things I've been meaning to get...

[Eosin]

Thanks Guys,

I am very interested to hear what people think of the book.

But until it has gotten a little more face time, I am busily hacking away at the second book.

Randy

[Edsel]

I am busily hacking away at the second book.
When you are ready for me to start proof-reading that one, just holler.

[Killer Shrike]

Thanks Guys,

I am very interested to hear what people think of the book.

But until it has gotten a little more face time, I am busily hacking away at the second book.

RandyI flipped thru it last night for a couple of minutes. I didnt read any of the content yet but the art is really good.

[Gunrunner]

Can we get an idea about how the magic system works? What are some of the biggest differences in this setting as compared to the Turakian Age?

[Eosin]

I wouldn't but that doesn't mean much.

If I had my druthers on describing the setting here is how I might do it.

Players should feel like they stepped out of a book by David Gemmell, Bernard Cornwell, or Jack Whyte.

The world is vaguely familiar but not an exact fit. Think War of the Roses, Hundred Years War, and the Crusades but now add to the English/French flavor a double helping of Celtic and Norse spices. Overall it is similar in many respects to world of A Song of Fire and Ice (in flavor). That might be because we both went to the same source material?

There is an ever present theme of religious strife. Basically, all the sects/groups hate each other. It isn't a kill on sight sort of thing but several religious wars have been fought. Martyrs aplenty.

Now, take all that pretty much "real world stuff" and add the following to suit your own taste.

Magic should evoke something similar to "The Force" or Jordans’ "One Power." It is ever-present but not paradigm shifting. Sure, it does change some stuff but there aren't crazy wizards digging huge holes in the ground to house their pet monsters.

Take a few dozen (lesser) angels - put them on an ego trip and give them a dash of a god complex. Marinate for several centuries before thoroughly searing. ---->

----> Take some creatures right out of the books on Ole Scratch and throw ‘em in along with some of them angels who decided they didn't want to see how hot the fires could get. These should be well tenderized but still retain more than a little zippiness.

That might be how I would describe it. Of course, I would be slap happy at 6 am if I said it that way.

Keith Curtis may have said it much more simply when he said - "Celtic Goth."

Final note - there are options and avenues that could allow a game master to turn TLD into the rippingest epic fantasy around. Under these options, players have more than just a touch of angelic blood in them and come off akin to Hercules and the rest of them Greek Legends/Heroes.

[Eosin]

Well now. That looks weird. The question changed while I was typing.


The magic system
Let's see.....
I had a few objectives (especially after I figured out why there are something like 600 pages of spells produced by Hero).

1. It needed some flavor (like the Force or the One Power)
2. It needed to be standardized.
3. It needed some flavor
4. It needed to be able to port the spells from FHG, TA, FHGII, and FH in an easy fashion.
5. It needed to be an option that was available to players but not overpowering and not underwhelming (that is a very hard balance to find).
6. It shouldn't be a burden on the GM when running a game.
7. It needed some flavor.

I am not going to claim that I met all the goals equally well. The spells are standardized, I think the system has flavor, you can use spells from other Hero Books easily, and it isn't a burden for me (but then I built the dang thing).

In retrospect, the magic system ate my lunch as far as consuming time, space, and thought. And it still needs some flesh on its bones. Does that answer your question?

[Gunrunner]

Sorry about the drastic editing. I wanted to make my questions a bit more specific so they would be easier to answer :) Thanks for answering my questions; they give me a good idea of the setting and have convinced me to buy the PDF when I get back to the states. It's funny that you mentioned a Song of Fire and Ice. I'm actually reading that series right now and enjoying it very much. I'm looking forward to reading the Last Dominion when I get it.

[DreadDomain]

Bought it, didn't read it yet, at first sight looks really, really good but what about the maps? I thought the high resolution maps were included in the book. Or did I misunderstand and is there only the four small, half-page maps?

[Eosin]

Bought it, didn't read it yet, at first sight looks really, really good but what about the maps? I thought the high resolution maps were included in the book. Or did I misunderstand and is there only the four small, half-page maps?


There should be two PDFs included in your zipped download. One is the main setting and the other contains the four maps at high res and with a full page layout. If you don't have both of those, send me an email at Eosin_the_Red@cox.net and I will send you a link to a file with just the maps.

[DreadDomain]

There should be two PDFs included in your zipped download. One is the main setting and the other contains the four maps at high res and with a full page layout. If you don't have both of those, send me an email at Eosin_the_Red@cox.net and I will send you a link to a file with just the maps.

Thank you Eosin. I just e-mailed you.

DD

[Eosin]

No problem. Same goes for anyone esle who ended up without the maps...?

PS - be sure to tell everyone what you think when you get a moment. Maybe we can get a review thread going pretty shortly (I expect a few reviews in the short term).

Randy

[DreadDomain]

No problem. Same goes for anyone esle who ended up without the maps...?

PS - be sure to tell everyone what you think when you get a moment. Maybe we can get a review thread going pretty shortly (I expect a few reviews in the short term).

Randy

Thanks, I got them! Yesterday I had a look at the download in the Hero Games online store and it seems there is only one pdf file (ppp00001.pdf).

Like I said, I just browsed it but it looks very promising. I soon as I get the time to read it, I will let you know what I think. Two things will slow down my progress. First, I am in the process of starting a GURPS* Warhammer** game and second, I have a hard time reading on the computer. That's why I never ever buy PDF. I made an exception with TLD because it looked very promising from both the blurb and the preview.

*At some point I was battling deciding between GURPS and HERO to play in WH. In the end, I thought it would be easier with GURPS 4 just because it is more gritty than Hero. It also helped that in the last five years I've played Hero exclusively and I thought a change would be nice. Would I have gotten TLD a month ago, my decision, both system and setting wise, could have been different.

**Do you know the Warhammer setting? If you, how would you compare TLD to it?

[Killer Shrike]

Still havent had time to read the content (and probably wont for the forseable future), but the layout, design, and artwork are all top notch. This has the appearance of a hight quality and nicely polished small to medium press product.

As I havent really read it I can't speak to any editing flaws. However a brief sampling of the writing style leaves me with the impression that it is generally conversational and reasonably concise.

A couple of minor gripes:

* The test on the parchment insets is a little difficult for me to read.

* Cleaner page breaks, particularly on the race page or any section that a player might want to print off to include with their character info such as Package Deals, would have been appreciated. I don't think page limits are really a factor in a pdf product, and the pages are printable independently, so might as well play to the mediums strength.

* personally I don't like Angels or anything that leans too heavily towards that direction, and I get a feel off the Celestines just from skimming that aggravates. Again, I havent really read the material so this may be an invalid impression. (I'm prefering to think of them as more like the Valheru from Feist's Midkemia setting at this point).

* Names -- another personal preference, but some of the names look very generic/gamist. I mean, people rarely group up and decide to call themselves something like the "Order of Kratian Battlelords" or "the SYNOD". Other names I like better are more "flavored", like Hyrcald and Boson Gar. For instance Armipotence, Guardian, and Mortis Styles = gamist, Inwendig, Nicoda, Ochs (etc) = flavorful and immersive.

* Language Chart -- a nice touch (I'm a fan of Language Charts too http://www.killershrike.com/SanDora/Images/LanguageChart.jpg ), but with the over all high graphic quality of the document I was a little suprised by the crudity of the LC.

* The Magic System looks pretty butch. On initial consideration I'd say it has the benefit of being simple, and the drawback of being simplistic. I would have concerns about its power level being too high, but that's the sort of call that can only really be made by weighing a lot of other factors so Ill withold judgement at this point.

* This is a very completist work, which is a plus, but on the other hand a lot of the basics could probably be deferred. I would have liked to see more involved details on the elements that make the seeting unique or distinctive instead.

But on the other hand, my cursory impression is that a GM could reasonably run a campaign with Sidekick or the main rule book, one of the grimoires if they are lazy, and Last Dominion.


Overall it looks like a very respectable offering.


Good job to Eosin, glad to see all your hard work the past year or so bore fruit.

[Killer Shrike]

**Do you know the Warhammer setting? If you, how would you compare TLD to it?
Yah, we know Warhammer.
http://www.killershrike.com/FantasyHERO/ConversionWH2e/conversionWH2e.shtml

From my glance over TLD I would say that Warhammer is the grittier setting of the two, but that's really something very much in the hands of the way the GM runs it.

Really, as Im sure you know, any setting can be anything to any group of players. It's really more about finding a setting with materials that inspire you and provide a framework for an enjoyable game.

[Eosin]

* The test on the parchment insets is a little difficult for me to read.

Noted.

* Cleaner page breaks, particularly on the race page or any section that a player might want to print off to include with their character info such as Package Deals, would have been appreciated. I don't think page limits are really a factor in a pdf product, and the pages are printable independently, so might as well play to the mediums strength.

Hmmm. I never looked at it that way. I broke with thoughts of conserving paper/ink. Again, noted.

* personally I don't like Angels or anything that leans too heavily towards that direction, and I get a feel off the Celestines just from skimming that aggravates. Again, I havent really read the material so this may be an invalid impression. (I'm prefering to think of them as more like the Valheru from Feist's Midkemia setting at this point).

Probably valid. If I was to make a comparison, it would be the Vorlons from Babylon5 or the Maia from LOTR. Both are also "angelic" in inspiration but lesser in form or divinity.

* Names -- another personal preference, but some of the names look very generic/gamist. I mean, people rarely group up and decide to call themselves something like the "Order of Kratian Battlelords" or "the SYNOD". Other names I like better are more "flavored", like Hyrcald and Boson Gar. For instance Armipotence, Guardian, and Mortis Styles = gamist, Inwendig, Nicoda, Ochs (etc) = flavorful and immersive.

It is a balancing act. On an odd designer note, nearly every name has some meaning. I am a nut when it comes to names. FREX: Armipotence is the name given to an actual style of medieval armored combat. Hyrcald literally means "bitter spear." etc.. ad nauseum. Thanks for pointing out a few of the clunkers.

* Language Chart -- a nice touch (I'm a fan of Language Charts too http://www.killershrike.com/SanDora/Images/LanguageChart.jpg ), but with the over all high graphic quality of the document I was a little suprised by the crudity of the LC.

Gee, maybe I shouldn't have done that one myself. :ugly:

* The Magic System looks pretty butch. On initial consideration I'd say it has the benefit of being simple, and the drawback of being simplistic. I would have concerns about its power level being too high, but that's the sort of call that can only really be made by weighing a lot of other factors so Ill withold judgement at this point.

Tough. Some will like it but others will hate it. See my notes above on what I desired from a magic system.

* This is a very completist work, which is a plus, but on the other hand a lot of the basics could probably be deferred. I would have liked to see more involved details on the elements that make the seeting unique or distinctive instead.

Again, another struggle. One I even noted in the introduction. I mostly concur with your opinion and book 2 will hopefully infuse more of the unique character of TLD.

But on the other hand, my cursory impression is that a GM could reasonably run a campaign with Sidekick or the main rule book, one of the grimoires if they are lazy, and Last Dominion.


Overall it looks like a very respectable offering.


Good job to Eosin, glad to see all your hard work the past year or so bore fruit.

Yeap, but on the other hand.:) What stays and what goes prompted many a gruesome hack feast. Sadly, I was shooting for 96 pages (the target of all 3P books) but just couldn't cut away more without evecerating the "feel."

Thanks for all your comments KS

[Eosin]

**Do you know the Warhammer setting? If you, how would you compare TLD to it?

WH is one of the few settings that I have nearly zero experience with. I'll defer to Shrikes judgement.

[Captain Obvious]

You know, if Steve doesn't like this setting, he doesn't have to sell it. Making these snide comments on the main page is unnecessary.

[Eosin]

I just wet myself. :celebrate Text cannot properly display the gut splitting laughter that just made my morning.

[Edsel]

If that is how the campaign is going to play out, my character needs more bling.

[Sword-dancer]

maybe i´ve overlooked it, but will Last Dominion be printed?

[Eosin]

maybe i´ve overlooked it, but will Last Dominion be printed?


Yes, it will but probably not until after GenCon.

[DreadDomain]

Yes, it will but probably not until after GenCon.

Cool. In what format will it be printed?

[Eosin]

POD perfect bound. I am still debating on color vs black and white. I spent an ugly amount of money on illustrations and cartography, so it would be a real let down to skimp at the printing phase. However, people need to be able to afford it.

[DreadDomain]

POD perfect bound. I am still debating on color vs black and white. I spent an ugly amount of money on illustrations and cartography, so it would be a real let down to skimp at the printing phase. However, people need to be able to afford it.

True. I'd prefer color myself but then again do you have a range of price for both B&W and color?

Dread "I should really take the time to read it soon" Domain

[Eosin]

True. I'd prefer color myself but then again do you have a range of price for both B&W and color?

Dread "I should really take the time to read it soon" Domain


I don't have the figures yet... I glossed over them once about a month ago and it looked ugly. That is about all the information I have right now on the difference between color vs b&w.

Expect an answer within the next few weeks.

[Derek Hiemforth]

Just picked this up, Eosin, and I have to say...


Sweet! :thumbup:

[Old Man]

POD perfect bound. I am still debating on color vs black and white. I spent an ugly amount of money on illustrations and cartography, so it would be a real let down to skimp at the printing phase. However, people need to be able to afford it.

You could always just take a loss on the project and call it "art". :D

[Eosin]

You could always just take a loss on the project and call it "art". :D

Rest assured, this is a loss (well, at least a tax write off). If I wanted to make mad insane money and get all the chicks - I would have gone that more conventional route. :smoke: Fortunately, I love HERO System and money isn't the primary motivation.

I have three books planned and intend to publish them and then take a look back to see where things are on the ledger. Intentionally digging myself deeper won't help that final tally. Ultimately, I would like to keep doing this but in order for that to happen I have to come close to breaking even or better (To be clear, this is just a hobby for me; however, I take the line standards seriously and want to do the best job that I can.).

[Chiba Bob]

Rest assured, this is a loss (well, at least a tax write off). If I wanted to make mad insane money and get all the chicks - I would have gone that more conventional route. :smoke: Fortunately, I love HERO System and money isn't the primary motivation.

Checked out your preview and liked what I saw. I will be sending a few bucks your way on Monday when my paypal transfer clears for a PDF copy. :rockon:

[Eosin]

Checked out your preview and liked what I saw. I will be sending a few bucks your way on Monday when my paypal transfer clears for a PDF copy. :rockon:


Sweet! Hope you enjoy it.

BTW - I should have the HDv3 files up and ready tonight. I may have to see about working up some nifty template for the base file.

[Defendi]

I've been reading it. So far so good.

[Jomster]

Nice touch making the HDv3 files available... they look good! :thumbup:

Useful for buyers plus a good way to further advertise! Now if everyone with a licenced product did this we would live in a lovely world indeed! :)

[Eosin]

Thanks. (Both of you)

While I am twinking away at River's End, I am also trying to get as much free stuff up on the net as time allows. I expect to be posting some more character files on www.pencil-pushers.net (www.pencil-pushers.net)tonight. For those who haven't been there, the download section has several PDFs and a large number of Pre-Fabs for HDv3 ~ most of the Pre-Fabs are good for any fantasy game not just The Last Dominion. (All of the Pre-Fabs will go up in the Hero Designer Vault as well.)

Last week was the Archer. This week I hope to get bandits and a few more Pre-Fab done.

[Krieghandt]

I bought LD couple days ago, already getting ideas and info from it. And its very well written. was a good read. Excellent job.
Krieghandt

[Eosin]

:celebrate

Thanks for the good cheer in the morning!

[Eosin]

I have several updates at www.pencilpushers.net

Last Weeks Downloads:
* Archers - 3 archers green to elite
* HDv3 Prefabs

Todays Downloads
* Bandits - 3 bandits green to elite
* It Is Your Destiny (an old file on using Destiny and Prophecy in your game. Oddles of TLD stuff tucked away in there).

Direct Link to Downloads Page (http://pencil-pushers.net/?page_id=11)

[Eosin]

A little slow this week on updating the downloads section. Hop on over to www.pencilpushers.net to get your hands on one of the Redeemers. Your players will hate you for even owning the Character Sheet.

The PDF is Here (http://www.pencil-pushers.net/Downloads/Redeemer.pdf)

:tsk:

[Nolgroth]

First of all, bump. Shameless I know, but there you have it.

Second of all, after weeks and weeks of working my rear end off, I had time to sit down and read the finished product. Wow. As before, when I looked at the draft, I was instantly hooked. Sorry Steve, but Last Dominion just grabbed me more than Turakian Age did. Excellent art and I think some of the character write-ups are awesome.

Have to agree with Killer Shrike regarding the package deals and page breaks. I also think parchment areas are a little difficult to read, but they are sparse enough that it is no big deal. Maybe making the parchment a little more faded would make the text stand out more.

Still, those are only minor gripes and don't detract from the overall impression of crunchy fantasy goodness. Great job.

I can't wait for the paper product. I like PDF well enough and you can't beat the portability, but I like a good solid book to read.

[Eosin]

More goodness up on the Pencil Pushers website. This week I got the calender all fixed up and PDF'd. I also threw up an experience/money tracker.

They are in the downloads section (http://pencil-pushers.net/?page_id=11).

Question: Does anyone want me to post the DOC versions of these things? (not all of them are done in Word, some are InDesign)

[Eosin]

Have to agree with Killer Shrike regarding the package deals and page breaks. I also think parchment areas are a little difficult to read, but they are sparse enough that it is no big deal. Maybe making the parchment a little more faded would make the text stand out more.

I am still plugging away at book 2 but when I go back to tweak things for printing it wouldn't take me that long to bump the fade on the sidebars down a notch or two. Page breaks will be more interesting. I think the critical sections are isolated and thus it will just involve some reflowing. I'll have to see. That is what I get for thinking about "page count" instead of player handouts/print-outs. :doi:

I am getting kinda excited about the new book. It has taken off in a way that I didn't predict and lots of interesting stomes are being turned over. Digging up new names and new legends is tons of fun.

[Captain Obvious]

I get a 404 on that tracking sheet.

[Eosin]

I'll take a look at it in a while.

Thanks for the heads up.

Randy

[Eosin]

Fixed and tested.

Thanks for the heads up.

[Nolgroth]

Page breaks will be more interesting. I think the critical sections are isolated and thus it will just involve some reflowing. I'll have to see. That is what I get for thinking about "page count" instead of player handouts/print-outs. :doi: It really isn't a terribly important deal, especially for the printed hard copy edition. Don't much think I'd be tearing pages from a book as player handouts. :) For the PDF version, it might be nice, but you also released the HDv3 stuff, so that makes the whole point even less of a big deal.

I am getting kinda excited about the new book. Yeah. Me too.

[mayapuppies]

Has the print version for this come out? I'm not a fan of pdf game books and this looks like a sweet addition to my research libary.

[Eosin]

Has the print version for this come out? I'm not a fan of pdf game books and this looks like a sweet addition to my research libary.

I am hoping to Print a batch at the end of summer.

[Teflon Billy]

I am hoping to Print a batch at the end of summer.PREORDERED!

You heared me, put my name down for reserving a copy, NOW! ;)

I already printed off one copy using my schools color laser printer, but I'll toss it in the garbage right now, if I can get a professionally bound hardcopy.

TB

[mayapuppies]

I'm with Teflon!

[Eosin]

I tell ya what, since so many have subtly hinted about a print copy, I will look into getting it done sooner. I doubt that with Gencon rapidly approaching many printers will be gun-ho on quick turn around but I will give it my best effort.

PS - it is nice to hear that the book is well liked.

[Teflon Billy]

I tell ya what, since so many have subtly hinted about a print copy, I will look into getting it done sooner. I doubt that with Gencon rapidly approaching many printers will be gun-ho on quick turn around but I will give it my best effort.

PS - it is nice to hear that the book is well liked.You are very welcome, but it is easy praising something that in fact is good. Trust me, if it had been crap I'd have told you :winkgrin:

Don't worry about rushing things (at least in my opinion,) I'll gladly buy it when it comes out.

TB

[Eosin]

Ah, you guys are gonna make me blush! :hex:

[Talon]

Looks very nice -- going to buy a PDF copy now. The Northrun map in the PDF is *saweet*!

I will post some impressions after I've had a chance to look it over, probably some time next week.

[Eosin]

Looks very nice -- going to buy a PDF copy now. The Northrun map in the PDF is *saweet*!

I will post some impressions after I've had a chance to look it over, probably some time next week.


All the maps except for the regional map were done by Keith "the map king" Curtis.

I tried hard to capture a "feel and look" for the Last Dominion. Unfortunately I had some learning to do on art and art direction (still do), but I expect the next book to look even better.

[Eosin]

The Downloads page (http://pencil-pushers.net/?page_id=11) at www.pencilpushers.net has a new addition... Selwyn of Idris is one of the most powerful members of the mystical Athan Re warrior sect. She ain't for the timid or faint of heart :drink: Think of a medieval Jack Bauer :eg: (well, not that bad. Not everyone she meets dies.)

[Savinien]

Rise from the grave and offer your power to those that recognize your worth!

[Eosin]

Since we are here.

The Pencil Pushers site has been updated quite a bit. A digital ton of freebees have been posted in the downloads section. On top of that, all my reviews have been collected in one spot so that you can take a peak.

For those who are interested in a Print Version - keep your eyes peeled. I got the finals for the interior design yesterday. I shall be re-flowing the text and making a few small tweeks here and there. I estimate about 2 weeks (that means a month in "other people time" :drink: ) before the book will be available as a perfect bound title. The deadtree copy will be more costly but I am will endevor to keep it down. I will post a preview of what the printed copy will look like when we get closer.

Book 2 is coming along great. I wish I could write as fast as Steve but not all of us are inhuman typing machines with multiple clones.

What I'd really like to hear is if anybody has had the chance to dig into the setting yet? I am most interested in hearing about:


How do the mechanics work for you? (magic, weapons, packages)
Where have you set the campaign
Any "problem areas" for your group?
Concepts that draw you to the setting?
Concepts that turn you off?

Not everyone is going to like the same things. This is the extent of my consumer research budget so speak up.


Thanks Savinien, I have been meaning to bump the thread for a few weeks.

[Savinien]

I spent a few hours looking over the pdf today and felt eerily similar to the words of the texts introduction.

paraphrased 'It hass more and less than what I thought it would.'

I'm nearly overwhelmed by all the names of places and historical figures, but simultaneously intrigued by the dept and breadth of the history. While I sort of see where some might have gotten the Angel - Devil comparisons, I felt they were more like the Vair than anything else.

I got an impression of the Forsaken from the Wheel of Time, too. A review will be forthcoming when I actually read through all of the text.

[DreadDomain]

Since we are here.

What I'd really like to hear is if anybody has had the chance to dig into the setting yet? I am most interested in hearing about:


How do the mechanics work for you? (magic, weapons, packages)
Where have you set the campaign
Any "problem areas" for your group?
Concepts that draw you to the setting?
Concepts that turn you off?

Not everyone is going to like the same things. This is the extent of my consumer research budget so speak up.



This is obviously not what you were fishing for but I would have loved to see these http://pencil-pushers.net/?page_id=44 in the book. In a setting so vast and rich, drawings of the different cultures is a must to help both players and GM to visualize the world. To be even more demanding, I'd like to see such drawing for every cultures :eg:. Although I admit you already have quite a few setting evocative drawings in the book.

Personally, I love the human centric, politically moving tone of the setting. To get things really moving now I would like to see regions described in much more details. You know, geography, society, people, economics, political organisations and titles. But that is what future supplements are for.

I have TLD PDF but I will buy the Dead Tree version anyway and of course the next supplement.

[Eosin]

See the poll over here (http://www.herogames.com/forums/showthread.php?t=49550).

I'll have to finish the reply later. Off to work now!

[Savinien]

Are you really wanting spelling errors and the like posted here?

[Eosin]

Either here or you can shoot me an email at Eosin_the_red@cox.net

I proofed and proofed and proofed. Other people prooofed and proofed and proofed. We proofed till we were pooped but I spotted about 20 errors in the first 50 pages while doing layout for the Print version.

That sucks.

The best are the errors that come about from fixing errors.
:help:

[Teflon Billy]

Either here or you can shoot me an email at Eosin_the_red@cox.net

I proofed and proofed and proofed. Other people prooofed and proofed and proofed. We proofed till we were pooped but I spotted about 20 errors in the first 50 pages while doing layout for the Print version.

That sucks.

The best are the errors that come about from fixing errors.
:help:Hey, at least you found'em.

I'm more forgiving of soft-copy errors over hard-copy errors. I'll expect push-ups for every typo.:eg:

TB

[Savinien]

CONFUSION:

Who are the Fenn and how do they compare to the Brotherhood of the White Temple?

[Eosin]

CONFUSION:

Who are the Fenn and how do they compare to the Brotherhood of the White Temple?

The Fenn are one of the 3 common Celestine camps. They generally live in the north and are the most human "seeming" of the three but are also very aggressively violent. The Brotherhood of the White Temple is a religious society dedicated to the Fenn and many of the high priests are the product of Fenn and human "liasons." So, the Fenn are the godlings and the White Temple is their church.

[Eosin]

I decided not to include the various concept art in the Print version. Knowing that some of you are interested, I did decide to put it all togther in a nice little PDF... I am missing several pieces from here but they are on disk somewhere hidden in my office.

TLD Concept Art (http://www.pencil-pushers.net/Downloads/Concept Art.pdf)

I included notes about the key concepts and I flagged various "issues."

PS - warning, this isn't spellchecked.

Randy

[Savinien]

The Fenn are one of the 3 common Celestine camps. They generally live in the north and are the most human "seeming" of the three but are also very aggressively violent. The Brotherhood of the White Temple is a religious society dedicated to the Fenn and many of the high priests are the product of Fenn and human "liasons." So, the Fenn are the godlings and the White Temple is their church.

Ahh! That makes sense. I'm sure the explanation was in there somewhere, I just couldn't find it and had gotten sort of stuck on it.

Thanks!

[Savinien]

I decided not to include the various concept art in the Print version. Knowing that some of you are interested, I did decide to put it all togther in a nice little PDF... I am missing several pieces from here but they are on disk somewhere hidden in my office.

TLD Concept Art (http://www.pencil-pushers.net/Downloads/Concept%20Art.pdf)

I included notes about the key concepts and I flagged various "issues."

PS - warning, this isn't spellchecked.

Randy

Pretty cool, Eosin. Thanks!

[Nolgroth]

I second the thanks. That is some cool art and (not surprisingly) it gave me some character ideas. I don't think I have looked forward to such a supplement since the early days of DoJ and Star HERO, Fantasy HERO etc.

[DreadDomain]

I decided not to include the various concept art in the Print version.

I am sad to hear this but...

Knowing that some of you are interested, I did decide to put it all togther in a nice little PDF... I am missing several pieces from here but they are on disk somewhere hidden in my office.

TLD Concept Art (http://www.pencil-pushers.net/Downloads/Concept Art.pdf)

I included notes about the key concepts and I flagged various "issues."

Randy

... but very happy about this. I guess it was just too much effort to get these concepts cleaned up of every issues and put in the layout.

[Teflon Billy]

I am sad to hear this but...



... but very happy about this. I guess it was just too much effort to get these concepts cleaned up of every issues and put in the layout.You did notice that he said that there is art in the book itself already, right?

These are just rough sketches that he had extra.

TB

[DreadDomain]

You did notice that he said that there is art in the book itself already, right?

These are just rough sketches that he had extra.

TB

Sure did (the same that are in the PDF I would guess). I just thought these cultural sketches were very nice and very useful.

But hey, getting them in PDF instead is a nice solution anyway...

[Savinien]

How goes the writing for the next book?

Interested parties want to know!

[Kristopher]

Thanks for posting the concept art PDF. Nice looking stuff, and fun seeing that snapshot of the development process.

[Eosin]

Thanks for posting the concept art PDF. Nice looking stuff, and fun seeing that snapshot of the development process.

Thanks. It has been something of a great big labor o' love to turn this into something concrete.

How goes the writing for the next book?

Interested parties want to know!

I am finished with the section on the various regions in the western states. Each entry is 6-8 pages and contains all kinds of information for players and GMS.

Here is the template that I used to define each region.

In The Last Dominion setting, you will find kingdoms of varying power and resources. Each kingdom is given a descriptive quick reference guide that can be referred to at a glance, followed by a narrative section on history, important persons, key characters, and other items of relevance. This book includes all the kingdoms in the Western States. Numeria, while technically not one of the Western States, is also detailed due to its role as an important player in Western politics.

UNDERSTANDING THE KINGDOM BLOCK
The quick reference guide is a tool to aid gamemasters and players gauge a kingdoms power and potential at a glance.

Head of State: The current titled ruler of a kingdom. It is important to note that this person only holds the title; they may not actually rule the land.
Ruler: The ruler may be the titular head of a kingdom but in many cases they are not. Powerful merchant-magnates, clerical orders, or strong councils of nobility may posses the means to enforce their edicts.
Government: Roen is filled with a number of differing styles of governance.
Capitol: The seat of national government.
Population: The population of a kingdom. This number estimates the total number of residents in a given area. A country wracked by civil war or flooded with refugees will have little control over significant portions of the population.
Provinces: A province is a set area of land that covers approximately 900 square kilometers (30 kilometers by 30 kilometers). Province with a capitol “P” denotes the defined gaming region. In game, things aren’t always so clear. A Province might be known as a barony, county, hundred, demesne, or bishophoric. Regardless of what it is called, the Province is the basic building block for nations.
Nationalities: Each country is made up of diverse population groups.
Languages: This denotes the languages spoken and by how much of the population. Only the primary languages will be listed. Other languages are spoken by a small minority.
Religion: The dominant religions in the country.
Military Power: The ability to wage war is inferred from 4 separate points: the number of men owing feudal service, the size of the standing army, availability of mercenaries, and the ability to pay and provision each of them. The funding is handled under the Treasury category.
Treasury: Treasury is a measurement of on-hand currency in coin or other liquid trade items.
Coinage: This notes what forms of currency are in use.
Imports: The primary products imported into the country.
Exports: Goods produced in excess that are sold to other nations.
Allies: A list of the formal alliances — trade, military, or vassal states.
Enemies: Those who actively seek to harm or subvert a country.

NARRAITIVE INTRODUCTION: This is a general outline of the nation and its history.
Royalty and Nobility: Who rules
National Politics: What are the internal issues
Military: Low down on those who fight
Religious Overview: The internal state of religious affairs
Mysticism: Who has the mojo and how do they use it.
Economics: Follow the money and food trail.
National Affairs: External issues facing the area
Important Sites: Capitol, trade cities, ports, etc...
Important People: Several key players detailed with a paragraph or two.
Interesting Locations: Odd sites, mystical locations, famous fortifications
Current Clatter: Street gossip.


I am finishing up the section on "everyday life," which gives an overview of rituals, medieval economies/style of organization, and other sundry items of interest to people who arte going to play in the west. This is meant to be short and sweet to convey the mood and setting rather than be a treaty on the 5,000 different kinds of feudalism or if such a critter ever was....

After that, I should only have a section or two left where I hope to put in something like Northrun. I have a militant monastary outlined and researched but the final composition of the section is still under consideration.

[DreadDomain]

Here is the template that I used to define each region. <SNIP>



Oooohhhhh! This looks very nice....!

[cndblank]

Just bought the Last Domain. Very sharp piece of work.

Are there Hero Designers files on the NPCS?

Keep up the good work.

[Eosin]

First, thanks for the comments.

Second, you can find the HDv3 files and a ton of other misc PDFs at www.pencil-pushers.net (www.pencil-pushers.net)in the downloads section. If you have any other questions or comments don't hesitate to ask.

Randy

[cndblank]

:thumbup:

Been there already. Hearing about those was what tipped me over the edge to buy the TLD, EOG PDF.

I was hoping to have access to the Hero Designer Character Files (*.HDC) for all the Character PDFs you put up in the Pencil Pusher Download section and in TLD, EOG PDF.

Thanks

[Eosin]

Ahhh... I see (I think). Give me a bit and I will get links to the HDv3 files for all the characters on the site.

Done. The Downloads page now has HDv3 files for all the characters.

I also posted a PDF preview of the POD version (http://www.pencil-pushers.net/Downloads/Print%20Preview.pdf)of TLD. It is a big file (4.5 mg) so don't click lightly.

[cndblank]

Talk about a quick turn around time.

Thanks!

This will be a real help!

I'm already trying to figure out how to merge TLD with the Shadow World Fantasy Hero campaign I'm currently running.

[Eosin]

Talk about a quick turn around time.

Thanks!

This will be a real help!

I'm already trying to figure out how to merge TLD with the Shadow World Fantasy Hero campaign I'm currently running.

I aim to please!

Let me know how the mixing goes. I don't know much about Shadow World so I will be interested to see how they mesh.

[Eosin]

Hey People,

I got something of a concordance/dictionary mostly finished for The Last Dominion setting. The final part of book two was kicking my hind end as far as remembering the little details so this sorta became a requirement for getting things done.

Anyway, if you have the setting you may find it useful. I expect that I will update in a week or two with some of the new stuff and get the details from Northrun added.

The Last Dominion Concordance (http://www.pencil-pushers.net/Downloads/Setting%20Concordance.pdf) - here is the direct link to the PDF.

[Savinien]

I got an error on the file.

[Nolgroth]

Wow, that's a lot of stuff. :hail:

[Eosin]

Wow, that's a lot of stuff. :hail:

What cha' talkin bout. 18 pages of dictionary like entries should be a requirement :straight:

Savinien ~ have you tried lately... Others seem to be getting it without a problem. If you still can't bump the thread and I'll send it to you via email.

[Nolgroth]

What cha' talkin bout. 18 pages of dictionary like entries should be a requirement :straight: I am terrible at lists. Encyclopedia-esque lists are especially difficult.

[Savinien]

I did get this to work without figuring out what the problem was. It was likely on my end!

[Eosin]

Good to hear.

There are several updates on the website should anybody be swinging by just for fun. I even managed to put an adventure up. It was originally designed to be part of the setting but didn't capture the right feel. Still, some may find it useful.

[Savinien]

Good to hear.

There are several updates on the website should anybody be swinging by just for fun. I even managed to put an adventure up. It was originally designed to be part of the setting but didn't capture the right feel. Still, some may find it useful.

I checked this out today! I didn't find a map in the PDF, though. Sort of surprised me.

[Eosin]

I wrote the adventure and had it edited. After that, I shopped it around to a few friends who had proofed the setting up to that point and the concensus was that the adventure tone was a little off. I had some sketches of the circus but after deciding that I could not use it, why pay to have them done? Pay for a goodly amount of wierd stuff but with the mind that I will eventually be able to use them somewhere....

Still, I don't think it would be hard to jot down something for yourself (an oval inside of an oval. The central area being the big top and the outer area divided into roughly quarters to house each of the respective sections. The whole thing should be near a river or stream).

[Savinien]

Sounds good. I just wanted to make sure there wasn't an omission of some sort!

Thanks!

[DreadDomain]

Speaking of downloads, am I the only one to get some funny linkages?

Western Roen gets me to the Echoes of Glory Preview and Northrun to the calendar.

[Eosin]

Nope, you aren't the only one. I'll disable them until they can be repaired.

:doi: