CoO - Character Creation

[Daos]

Species of Overmorrow
Something of note about the species of Overmorrow is that they all have the same lifespan. Elves, humans, dwarves, whatever...they all live to be around 90-100 years old or so. Elves are different in that they don't appear to age visibly. A 90 year old elf looks like a 20 year old elf, for instance. But all races age and mature the same way as humans. So a 15 year old dwarf is a teenager, not a baby. A 100 year old elf is ancient (even if they don't look it), not just entering adolescence. And so forth.

Humans
Overview:
There shouldn't be a need to say a great deal on humans, as it's assumed the player is already intimately aware of how humans look and act.

Humans come in a variety of different sizes, shapes and colors. Their culture varies wildly depending on setting.  They are by far the most numerous species in this world.

For this game:
Both standard and variant humans from the PHB are allowed.

Dwarves
Appearance:
A typical dwarf stands 4 feet tall and weighs about 150 pounds. They are stocky and muscular. Their skin is a deep tan or light brown in color and they have ruddy cheeks and bright eyes. Their hair could be black, gray or brown. They favor dark, somber earth-toned clothes and wear little jewelry.

Females tend to be busty, with wide hips. Despite rumors and hearsay among the other races, they usually do not have facial hair.

Overview:
Dwarves can be found anywhere in the setting, but most are concentrated in, on or around the mountains.  The Siyouans probably have more dwarves than the other three tribes put together.

For this game:
Both hill and mountain dwarves from the PHB are allowed.

Elves
Appearance:
Elves are lithe, elegant creatures with pointed ears, thin limbs, and graceful movements. They stand about five feet tall and weigh between 90 and 100 pounds. They have no facial hair.

Their skin tone ranges from milky white to a deep brown, to ebony. (Drow are no more likely to be evil than any other elf, though.)

Overview: 
Aside from humans, elves are probably the most numerous race in the setting.  They can be found anywhere, but mostly prefer places with forests, except for the Drow, who prefer living underground.

For this game:
High Elves, Wood Elves and Drow from the PHB are all allowed.

Gnomes
Appearance:
The most distinctive physical trait of the gnome is an enormous nose. This is something of a source of pride to a gnome, like a dwarf’s beard.

Gnomes stand about 3 1/2 feet on average. Unlike dwarves, they are more lightly built. The brownish color of gnomes’ skin ranges from light tan to nearly black. This isn’t affected by exposure to the sun at all. Like dwarves, most male gnomes grow beards. But they tend to keep them trimmed short or into fashionable shapes like goatees and such.

Overview: 
Rock gnomes tend to be found in the Siyouan tribe more often than the others, and likewise, Forest Gnomes tend to be more popular in the Cascadian tribe.  Deep Gnomes are fairly rare on the surface, often living deep underground.

For this game:
Rock and Forest Gnomes from the PHB and Deep Gnomes from the Elemental Evil Player's Guide are allowed.

Halflings
Appearance:
Averaging about 3’ in height, halflings are slightly stockier in build than is typical for humankind. Their complexions run the gamut from pale to very dark, with hair color correspondingly blond to black and eyes that are brown or hazel. They rarely wear shoes (only in bad weather or bitter cold) and can be easily distinguished by the thick patches of hair growing atop each foot. They have no facial hair (besides eyebrows and eyelashes, of course). They wear brightly-colored, comfortable clothes, such as trousers or shirts or dresses, with a vest, jacket, hat, sash or bonnet added as a flourish. Their faces are round and very expressive, often appearing childlike to humans.

Overview:
Halflings can be found in any tribe, but usually prefer plains or hilly regions to settle down in.

For this game:
Lightfoot and Stout Halflings from the PHB are allowed.

Half-Elves
Overview:
Half-elves are the most common mixed-race beings. They are often like their elven parent in appearance. They are handsome folk, with the good features of both races. They are a bit taller and stockier than elves, but less so than humans.

In general, a half-elf has the curiosity, inventiveness, and ambition of their human ancestors, and the refined senses, love of nature, and artistic tastes of their elven ancestors.

For this game:
Half-Elves from the PHB are allowed.

Half-Orcs
Overview: 
Half-orcs result from orc unions with virtually any humanoid or demi-human species except elves. These mixed breeds tend to favor the orcish parents, though a small number can pass for their other parent's species.

For this game:
Half-Orcs from the PHB are allowed.

Dragonborn
Overview: 
Dragonborn, sometimes called Dragon-Touched, are not a true species in of themselves.  Rather, they are usually created when a mortal makes a soul bond with a dragon.  But when a great dragon dies, it soul will dissipate into the air, and sometimes newborn children will be born Dragon-Touched.  Either way, they are essentially something different after that point, no longer resembling their mortal parents, but now closer to the dragon they bonded with.

For this game:
Dragonborn from the PHB are allowed.

Tieflings
Overview: 
Tieflings, sometimes called Fiend-Touched, are a seemingly random mutation that appears in newborn babies.  Much like with other genasi, it's not clear what causes this, and the explanation given is usually dependent on the culture they were born into.  Some see them as cursed, others as blessed.  Some believe it happens when one (or both) of the parents commit some great evil act, and others believe it happens when children are born in an area with a great deal of negative energy.

For this game:
Tieflings from the PHB are allowed.

Aasimar
Overview:
Aasimar, sometimes called Celestial-Touched, are a seemingly random mutation that appears in newborn babies. Much like with other genasi, it's not clear what causes this, and the explanation given is usually dependent on the culture they were born into. Some see them as cursed, others as blessed. Some believe it happens when one (or both) of the parents commit some great good act, and others believe it happens when children are born in an area with a great deal of positive energy.

For this game:
Aasimar from the DMG are allowed.

Genasi
Overview: 
Genasi, sometimes called Plane-Touched, are a seemingly random mutation that appears in newborn babies.  Some believe this is a blessing from the gods, others see it as a curse.  Others still think it happens when a child is born near a portal or place with elemental energy focused in it.

For this game: 
Earth, Fire, Air and Water Genasi from the Elemental Evil Player's Companion are allowed.

Aarakocra
Overview: 
Aarakocra often dwell in the mountains, but it's not uncommon for them to sometimes migrate down to other places.  Even when they do, though, they often like to live as much above ground as they can (second story buildings, for instance).  Aarakocra can resemble any kind of avian, and it varies depending on region.  Those closest to the sea often look like seagulls, terns and pelicans, for instance.

For this game:
Aarakocra from the Elemental Evil Player's Companion are allowed.

Goliaths
Overview: 
Half-giants, sometimes called 'goliaths,' are fairly uncommon.  But they can be found throughout the setting, in both cities and in rural areas.  As they are descended from stone giants, they are often found in mountainous areas, as well.

For this game: 
Goliaths from the Elemental Evil Player's Companion are allowed.

[Daos]

Classes of Overmorrow

Barbarian
Barbarians are quite common in Cascadia, especially in the more tribal lands like the Riverdom and Lava Sands.  In this setting, a Barbarian's rage comes from a spirit of anger that has possessed the Barbarian; the spirit remains dormant inside a person until they reach a certain threshold of anger, then it takes over.  Sometimes this possession is intentional, as part of a ritual to strengthen a warrior.  Sometimes it's by accident, meaning it's possible for a normal person to become possessed, turning into a raging monster on the battlefield when they get angry.
--Path of the Berserker
Those who take this path have undergone a blood ritual to strengthen the rage spirit within them.  This path is particularly popular among Inlanders, as they view strength as the ultimate virtue, and believe fusing with a spirit of anger is a great honor.
--Path of the Totem Warrior
Those who take this path have undergone a spiritual ritual to imbue their rage spirit with the spirit of an animal, fusing the two together.  This path is quite common among the Kanatas of the north, who view animal life as sacred.
--Path of the Ancestral Guardian
Those who take this path are connected to the departed spirits of their ancestors, which fuel them with their rage.  This can happen due to some kind of inter-generational trauma or injustice, and the ancestral spirits choosing the Barbarian to avenge them in some way.
--Path of the Storm Herald
Those who take this path have undergone an elemental ritual to imbue the rage spirit within them with an elemental spirit, fusing the two together.  A desert spirit is rare in this land, but sea spirits are common among the Cascadians of the west and tundra spirits are popular among the Kanatans of the north.
--Path of the Zealot
Those who take this path have sworn an oath to Elonna herself to protect nature at any cost, and are thus imbued with Her fury.  They essentially are imparted with a slight hint of Mother Nature's essence, filled with Her righteous anger at mankind's wanton destruction.  The Cult of the Vengeful Mother is particularly fond of this path.
--Path of the Protector
Those who take this path have sworn to use their anger spirit to protect their loved ones, whether they be family, friends or tribesmen/countrymen.  There have also been a few rare instances where a person was unwittingly possessed by an anger spirit when a loved one was threatened, as such spirits are attracted to great rage.

Bard
Bards are far more than simply traveling minstrels.  They are explorers, diplomats, artists and great leaders.  Their power is derived from their own confidence, a type of soul energy drawn upon by performing the skills they excel at most.  Bards can be found anywhere, but are often found in more civilized, urban areas.
--College of Lore
Lore Bards are often trained in one of the great coastal cities, and are generally the historians of the land.  They seek out any and all knowledge they can find, whether ancient lost knowledge or something entirely new, then work to spread that knowledge elsewhere.  Because they often seek out the 'forbidden' knowledge of the Ancient Ones, they can be rather unpopular in certain circles, especially among the Inlanders.
--College of Valor
Valor Bards, or Skalds, are often trained among the tribal Inlanders, and sometimes can be found among the Ravenites to the north.  The knowledge they are interested in finding and passing around are great stories of valor, honor and glory on the battlefield.
--College of Glamour
Glamour Bards, also known as Feywild Bards, are trained in the Feywild itself, or from someone born there.  This changes a person, usually in an intangible but still noticeable way.  People fear Glamour Bards almost as much as they are in awe of them.  The power they can wield over the hearts and minds of others makes them dangerous, especially to those in power.
--College of Swords
Sword Bards, also known as Blades, are known for their flashy and impressive weapon skills.  They aren't just skilled at using a weapon, but in twirling it, flourishing it, and making it dance in the light.  This intimidates enemies, who believe them to be far more skilled than they actually are.
--College of Whispers
Whisper Bards are a secret society of assassins, thieves, seducers and spies.  They are often orphans, raised from childhood to navigate court intrigue, manipulate those in power and then slip into the shadows, unseen and with no evidence they were ever involved.  They serve the highest bidders, indifferent to the consequences of their actions so long as they are paid well.
--College of Botany
Garden Bards command great respect among Elonnari, due to their inherent connection to nature and plantlife.  Many consider them blessed by Elonna herself.  Some dwell within the various gardens near the coast, while others strike out into the true wilderness to keep an eye on nature's balance.
--College of Leadership
The rarest of Bards, Leadership Bards can crop up just about anywhere.  They can be ship captains, army generals, or even heads of state.  It is often said these Bards have the power to change the world itself, if they put their mind to it.  And history has shown that many have done just that.

Cleric
A cleric is one able to wield divine powers that originate from their own faith in a deity, a force or a philosophy.  The vast majority of clerics spend years in training, usually at a church or monastery, to earn their powers, but there have been a few instances of a random person having this power (and thus responsibility) thrust upon them unwillingly by some fickle god.  The vast majority of clerics of the Cascadian region are followers of Elonna.  It is possible to play a cleric of a different faith, but they will be generally treated poorly, as the Elonnari are a very religious people.
--Knowledge Domain
Clerics of Eurekism who follow the Way of the Tome and clerics of Chrysalism may take the Knowledge Domain.
--Death Domain
Currently N/A
--Life Domain
Clerics of Elonna may take the Life Domain, as Elonna values all plant and animal life.
--Light Domain
Clerics of Elonna may take the Light Domain, as the warmth of the sun is considered part of Elonna's domain.
--Nature Domain
Clerics of Elonna, Chrysalism, Trailwalkers and the Raven may take the Nature Domain.
--Tempest Domain
Clerics of Elonna may take the Tempest Domain.  Particularly those who follow the Cult of the Vengeful Mother.
--Trickery Domain
Clerics of Raven and clerics of Eurekism who follow the Way of the Shadow may take the Trickery Domain.
--War Domain
Clerics of Eurekism who follow the Way of the Sword may take the War Domain.
--Forge Domain
Currently N/A
--Grave Domain
Clerics of Elonna may take the Grave Domain, for the balance of life and death is important to Elonna.
--Harmony Domain
Clerics of Eurekism who follow the Way of the Dove may take the Harmony Domain.
--Heartstring Domain
Currently N/A

Druid
Druids are defenders of nature, and can even draw forth magical powers from the planet itself.  They fight to protect and preserve the natural, and to maintain balance between the elements.  In this land, many druids serve Elonna, who they see as the personification of the planet itself, but many cultures have druids who simply serve the force of nature without any religious trappings.
--Circle of the Land
Druids who focus on the land itself, and draw strength from a specific terrain, often join the Circle of the Land.  In this region, the most popular terrains are Arctic, Coast, Forest, Grassland and Mountain.
--Circle of the Moon
Druids with a connection to animal life often join the Circle of the Moon.  They are more popular among Inlanders.
--Circle of Dreams
Druids with a deep connection to the Feywild often join the Circle of Dreams.  They are an elusive and mysterious lot, and often treated with great respect and/or fear among the local populace.
--Circle of the Shepherd
Druids who focus on the spirits that dwell in all living things often join the Circle of the Shepherd.  While they are connected to all spirits, it's the spirits of beasts that most appeal to them.
--Circle of the Flora
Druids who focus on their connection to plant life often join the Circle of the Flora.  They work to help plants grow and to curtail rot and blight, making them especially valued in gardens.

Fighter
Fighters are soldiers, guards, and warriors of all stripes and skills.  They are masters of weapons and armor, focusing entirely on athleticism and honing their bodies to physical perfection.  Fighters are probably the most common class in the land.
--Champion
Champions hone their bodies into deadly weapons, turning their weapons and armor into extensions of themselves.  They bring the art of war to a new level.
--Battle Master
Battle Masters are strategists and tacticians who know the battlefield better than themselves.  They are able to manipulate the way a fight goes with their quick thinking and unorthodox techniques.
--Eldritch Knight
Eldritch Knights combine sorcery with steel in a way that was once thought unthinkable.  Their knowledge of magic is pithy compared to a full wizard, but they know enough to enhance their own fighting abilities.
--Arcane Archer
Arcane Archers combine sorcery with archery using ancient techniques passed down over the centuries.  They use these techniques to infuse arrows with magic, creating all sorts of trick shots.
--Cavalier
Cavaliers are mounted cavalry, known for fighting on the backs of animals.  Horses are fairly common, but in Cascadia it isn't unheard of to hear of cavaliers fighting on the back of elk or other such creatures.
--Samurai
Samurai are more common in the southern Celestial Empire, but they can be found in other places, as well.  They are known for the unwavering resolve on the battlefield.
--Chivalrous Knight
Chivalrous Knights, whether they serve a lord or wander the land as a Knight-errant, embody the virtues of honor, mercy and love.  Although rare, tales are often told about their exploits.

Monk
Monastic martial arts are said to have come from across the great ocean, from exotic lands far to the west.  Using high levels of discipline and focus, they can channel magical energies through their bodies, which is often referred to as chi or ki.  Monks are fairly rare in this land, but are far more populous to the south, in the Celestial Empire.
--Way of the Open Hand
Monks of the Open Hand are not pacifists, per se, but they believe that violence should be a last resort.  They train their bodies to fight in the hope that they never will use those skills, but circumstances often force them to anyway.  They are quite popular in the Way of the Dove sect of Eurekism.
--Way of Shadow
Monks of Shadow prefer to strike from the darkness, catching their foes unaware.  They make for deadly assassins.  They are quite popular in the Way of the Cowl sect of Eurekism.
--Way of the Four Elements
Monks of the Four Elements channel their chi to control the natural elemental forces around them.  Consequently, they are the most popular kind of Monk found among the Elonnori.
--Way of the Drunken Master
Monks of the Drunken Master often use mind-altering substances, like alcohol, to enhance their abilities.  There is also a sect among the Chrysalists that use chrysalis instead.
--Way of the Kensei
Monks of the Kensei implement weapons into their martial arts.  These 'sword saints' are quite popular among the Way of the Sword sect of Eurekism.
--Way of the Sun Soul
Monks of the Sun Soul channel their ki into beams of energy.  They are quite rare in these parts.
--Way of the Devoted
Monks of the Devoted, rather than isolate themselves, derive their strength from other people--friends, family, community.  They recognize all life is connected, and can channel that ki to empower themselves or others.

Mystics
(Note:  The Mystic class is originally from the Dragonlance setting.  I have reflavored it slightly and added it to this campaign world.  It can be found here.)  Mystics utilize the power of the heart--that is, they tap into their own soul energy--to affect the world around them.  Some mystics do this consciously, learning their abilities through training and meditation, and others wind up developing them completely by accident.  Some even mistaken these newfound powers as being a gift from a deity or other power, and dedicate their lives to serving that power without realizing it.
--Path of the Body
Mystics who follow the Path of the Body are focused on the physical.  They can use their power to affect themselves and others, whether it be healing them, controlling them or even altering them in some way.
--Path of the Mind
Mystics who follow the Path of the Mind are focused on the mental.  They can use their powers to sway and control the thoughts of others, whether it be to put them to sleep, change their perceptions and outlooks, or even communicate directly through their minds.
--Path of the Spirit
Mystics who follow the Path of the Spirit are focused on the spiritual.  They can affect the living, as well as the dead, and can even unlock perceptions beyond their mortal shell.

Paladin
Paladins are holy warriors of justice, righteousness and honor that are empowered by their own virtue and dedication to a good cause.  They follow a code and swear an oath to uphold the virtues of said code for as long as they live.  To a paladin, upholding their ideals are more important than their own lives.  Paladins tend to be quite rare, and as a result, stand out.
--Oath of Devotion
Paladins of Devotion are fairly rare in this region, being far more popular in distant, foreign countries.
--Oath of the Ancients
Paladins of the Ancients, however, are the most likely kind to be found in this region.  They revere Elonna, the Raven, the Great Spirit or the Almighty Spirit of the West.
--Oath of Vengeance
Paladins of Vengeance are fairly rare, as well, in this region.  But when they do appear, it's usually in places that face incredible injustice.
--Oath of Conquest
Paladins of Conquest are most commonly found to the south, among the Celestial Empire, especially near the borders to the more 'savage' lands.
--Oath of Redemption
Paladins of Redemption are fairly rare in this region, but not unheard of.
--Oath of Forged Bonds
Paladins of Forged Bonds are dedicated to their found family, drawing strength from them.  Consequently, they could theoretically be found anywhere.
--Oathbreaker
Oathbreakers, sometimes called Blackguards, are paladins who have broken their oaths and fallen from grace, embracing malice.

Ranger
Rangers are those who defend civilization from the dangers of the wilds.  They dwell on the borders of nations, out in the wilderness, dealing with monsters, raiders or other threats.  Often they are harbingers of danger, the first defense against the encroaching darkness.  Although they often work alone, many will join others in face of a larger threat.  Like druids, they draw power from nature itself.  Among the Elonnori, they are greatly respected.
--Hunter
Hunters are the most common type of Rangers, often dwelling in the outer edges of civilization, serving as a bulwark against outside threats.
--Beast Master
Beast Masters form a powerful bond with a beast that serves as a lifelong companion.  The Ranger and beast work in tandem to protect others from danger.
--Gloom Stalker
Gloom Stalkers specialize in dealing with threats from below; specifically, those that come from underground.  Those who defile Elonna from within can expect to be challenged by a Gloom Stalker.
--Horizon Walker
Horizon Walkers specialize in dealing with threats from beyond the fabric of the mortal world, but those from other dimensions.  This includes the outer planes, the inner planes, and the feywild.
--Monster Slayer
Monster Slayers, as their name suggests, typically deal with threats from powerful, magical monsters.  These include undead, dragons, abominations--the sorts of things too dangerous for mundane soldiers or scouts to deal with on their own.
--Landstrider
Landstriders don't just protect the borders of nature, they help tame and civilize them.  They are trailblazers, often the first to venture into the unknown and help make it easier for others to follow.  They can scout unknown terrain faster, tame wild animals and even help build new settlements.

Rogue
Rogues are folk that tend to believe the world owes them something and often seek to acquire the most they can while doing the absolute least amount of effort.  While not necessarily cruel or evil, it does tend to mean they are often shady characters, or have illicit connections or backgrounds.
--Thief
Any society in which personal property exists, and some objects have more value than others, will inevitably produce Thieves.  And such is the case here.
--Assassin
Assassins are merchants of death, specializing in killing.  They may be bounty hunters or hired killers, or perhaps even straight up serial killers.  Not all Assassins are evil, though.  But very few are ever good.
--Arcane Trickster
Arcane Tricksters are fairly rare, as are any arcane magic users, in this region.  But those few who do exist tend to have an advantage, as a result.
--Inquisitive
Inquisitives are information brokers, trading with secrets and intelligence.  This can make them rather dangerous, especially if they decide to use these secrets against others.
--Mastermind
Masterminds are often found in the more civilized areas, relying on subterfuge and court intrigue to get ahead in life.  One should best watch what they say around a Mastermind.
--Scout
Scouts are quite common among the Elonnori, and well respected.  They often venture out into the wild to watch for danger.
--Swashbuckler
Swashbucklers are more common among the Cascadians on the coast.  They are often found on ships, seeking adventure and romance.
--Smuggler
Smugglers tend to be found more often in more civilized areas.  Although they do sometimes run contraband through dangerous wilderness to avoid authorities, as well.

Sorcerer
Unlike Wizards who spend years studying to acquire arcane power, and Warlocks who make a pact with a powerful and otherworldly being, Sorcerers' powers are innate.  Either they are born with them through a particular bloodline or their powers manifest due to some sort of catalyst they encounter later on in life.
--Draconic Bloodline
Dragons are rare and magical creatures.  The older and more powerful they become, the larger they grow.  It is said that when an ancient dragon dies, its soul spreads over the area and parts of it may infuse with the souls of newborns.  Those newborns may grow up to find they have strange, draconic magical powers.
--Wild Magic
Normally when an arcane spell is cast, it draws upon the ambient magic in the air and ground that seeps out from the planet's core, said to be a massive lump of pure amethyst pulsating with power.  Now and again, though, sometimes a person is born with the rare innate ability to draw power directly from the core itself.  This can cause a massive surge that causes unpredictable and sometimes dangerous side-effects.
--Divine Soul
There are those who can draw their power directly from a divine source.  This is not like petitioning a god for prayers, like a cleric does.  It's more like tapping into the divine energy itself.  As a result, these sorcerers can also cast divine spells, as well as arcane ones.  Having access to divine magic without a deity's consent may upset those who worship the gods, and see it as a mortal taking what isn't theirs to take.
--Shadow Magic
There are those sorcerers who can draw their power directly from the Demiplane of Shadow, a mysterious and nebulous plane of existence said to be parallel to our own.  Although shadow magic is not inherently evil, many people fear it as such, and those who can tap into it are often ostracized or shunned as a result.
--Storm Sorcery
Anyone who has survived a hurricane understands their incredible power.  The air itself hums with it.  In rare instances, those who are born in or near such a powerful storm develop the ability to tap into such power, channeling it into magic.  Storm Sorcerers are therefore the only type of sorcerer that is respected among the Elonnori, as they are one with nature itself (or its more tempestuous aspects, anyway).  They are popular among the Cascadians, especially among their naval crews.
--Protected Soul
Sometimes, acts of great sacrifice made out of love can be powerful enough to light a spark of magic within the person for whom the sacrifice is made.  This is often seen in the form of a parent giving their life for their child's or someone holding back enemies while their lover escapes. Protected Souls rarely stand out from the crowd, though they tend to feel love more strongly and have a desire to protect those they are close to.

Warlock
Warlocks, also known as Witches, do not acquire arcane power through bloodline or years of study, but by taking a bit of a shortcut.  They make a pact with an otherworldly being of great power--not a god, as a cleric does, but something else entirely.  But power always comes at a price.
--Pact of the Archfey
Archfey Warlocks are probably the most accepted among the Elonnori, and yet are still held at arm's length.  They are treated with respect as well as fear, for the fey are revered and yet dangerous.  As tempestuous as the sea, one never knows what to expect from the fey, or their servants.
--Pact of the Fiend
Fiend Warlocks have sold their soul to the devil, quite literally.  The powers they are beholden to are pure evil, and often these pacts are only made in the direst of circumstances.  Fiend Warlocks are thus feared and reviled among the common people.
--Pact of the Great Old One
Great Old One Warlocks are incredibly rare, and not at all understood, even by the most learned of scholars.  Nobody is quite sure who or what their patrons are, or where they are dwell, but it's clear they are as powerful as they are unpredictable and inscrutable.
--Pact of the Celestial
Celestial Warlocks are counterparts of Fiend Warlocks, but rather than a deal with a devil, they make a pact with an angel or other higher being.  Often this is done in hopes of pushing the Warlock to a better path.  But unlike with fiends, it is quite rare for a celestial to make such a deal, so Celestial Warlocks are rather uncommon.
--Pact of the Hexblade
Hexblade Warlocks make a pact with an entity that dwells on the Demiplane of Shadow.  Creatures that dwell there are not always evil, but often are, and even when they are not, they are often mysterious and work toward an uncertain agenda.
--Pact of Lady Luck
Lady Luck Warlocks are fairly rare in this region, but some crop up in the desert to the south, near the ruins of an ancient city that was said to be dedicated to Lady Luck.  Accepting such a pact is a gamble; it may bring great fortune or great woe.
--Pact of Mother
Mother Warlocks make a pact with some powerful maternal being.  There are those among the Elonnori who claim to serve Mother Earth itself, but this causes some controversy as it's believed Elonna makes her will known through her priests instead.

Wizard
Wizards are those who dedicate their lives to careful study of arcane algorithms, an incredibly complex form of mathematics that allows one to reshape reality itself.  The Ancient Ones were said to be able to breathe magic itself, so many Elonnori shun the arcane in favor of druidic magic instead.  As such, wizards are fairly rare and don't receive a lot of respect among the Elonnori.
--Abjurer
Abjurers focus on protective wards and spells of banishment.  They are great for defense and dealing with extraplanar creatures.
--Conjurer
Conjurers (also known as Summoners) focus on spells that bring forth something from nothing, or spells that transport objects or creatures from one place to another.  This makes them useful when dealing with large numbers of opponents.
--Diviner
Diviners focus on spells that reveal information--detection spells and spells that reveal glimpses of the future.  This allows them to always stay one step ahead.
--Enchanter
Enchanters focus on spells that empower objects with magic or spells that sway or control the minds of others.  The latter makes them quite dangerous.
--Evoker
Evokers (also known as Invokers) focus on spells that channel energy, often into destruction forms.  Legends say a single Evoker can level an entire garden.
--Illusionist
Illusionists focus on spells that fool the senses.  They can create images and sounds that aren't really there, but are so real that they can fool most.
--Necromancer
Necromancers focus on magic that affects and controls the dead, reanimating corpses and creating armies of walking death.  As Elonnori consider the undead an unnatural abomination, Necromancers are by far the most hated and feared of Wizards among them.
--Transmuter
Transmuters focus on magic that reshape the physical properties of people and objects.  They can shapeshift themselves and others, and even turn iron to gold.
--War Magic
War Mages focus on a mix of Abjuration and Evocation, become a great asset (or curse, depending on whose side you are on) on the battlefield.  Elonnori tend to eschew such tactics themselves, preferring to use druidic magic instead, but neighboring nations have no such qualms against wielding that kind of arcane power.
--Concurrence
Concurrence Wizards, sometimes known as Symbiotic Wizards or Soul Wizards, are perhaps the rarest of their kind.  They channel their magical energies not only through themselves, but those close to them, as well.  By linking their souls with another, they can not only strengthen their own power, but forge powerful bonds.

[Daos]

Backgrounds of Overmorrow

Acolyte
If you take the Acolyte background, then in all likelihood your character was raised in the druidic church of Elonna.  You can be an acolyte from another faith, but keep in mind that in this setting, you will not encounter many NPCs from your faith, and so your feature, Shelter of the Faithful, will likely not come in handy very often, if ever.

Charlatan
No special notes on Charlatans.

Criminal
No special notes on Criminals.

Devoted Parent
No special notes on Devoted Parents.

Entertainer/Gladiator
No special notes on Entertainers or Gladiators.

Farmer
Inlanders don't have farmland, preferring to hunt and gather.

Far Traveler
The Far Traveler background can be found here.  Far Travelers may be welcomed or shunned, depending on where they are and where they are originally from.

Feylost
The Feylost background can be found here.  Feylost will be treated with a mix of respect and fear, usually kept at arm's length from common folk.

Folk Hero
No special notes on Folk Heroes.

Guild Artisan/Guild Merchant
No special notes on Guild Artisans or Guild Merchants.

Hermit
No special notes on Hermits.

Homebringer
No special notes on Homebringers.

Independent Business Owner
Inlanders are a tribal society, and thus have no concept of businesses or storefronts.  They instead barter.

Landowner
No special notes on Landowners.

Noble/Knight
Instead of knights, Inlanders have Braves.

Outlander
No special notes on Outlanders.

Runaway Betrothed
Because the Elonnori have a matriarchal society, the traditional 'runaway bride' archetype is replaced with the 'runaway groom' one instead.  Also, it's not uncommon for young women in the Deseret kingdom to flee to Elonna lands in hopes of a better life and to escape a forced marriage.

Sage
No special notes on Sages.

Sailor/Pirate
If your character has the Sailor/Pirate background, they are probably from a place that is ocean or sea adjacent, or at least has significant rivers running through it.

Soldier
No special notes on Soldiers.

Urchin
No special notes on Urchins.

[Daos]

Cultures of Overmorrow
Cascadians: Cascadians are sea folk. They are sailors, fishers and shipbuilders. They can be eccentric, but generally are a compassionate and kind people.  They love to trade and meet new folk.  Although pacifists, they can be roused to great anger when provoked.  They have a heavy reliance on druidic magic, and use it to grow magical coral which they can shape into weapons and other objects.  They prefer names that reference water and the sea, or creatures that dwell within the ocean, like Coral, Pike, Tsue (short for Tsunami), Torrent, Luna, Surge, Raine, etc.

Inlanders: The people of the lands east of the Cascades have always identified themselves as wholly separate from the people of the coasts and range, even when they were supposedly united in one state. They are ruthless and aggressive, believing that might makes right.  Inlanders tend to be xenophobic and isolationist.  They are by far the most conservative of the Elonnori, believing that any sort of agriculture, mining or raising livestock is wrong.  They are hunters and gatherers, and shun the arcane and any technology higher than stone age.  They have a strong preference for drudic magic, and use it to grow magical, indestructible flowers whose petals can be woven into all sorts of things, including armor.  They prefer names that reference flame like Fira, Spark, Ember, Blaze, or the names of various flowers, plants or animals native to the area where they dwell (Lily, Madrone, Coyote, etc.).

Kanatans: They are a free and sometimes unpredictable people.  They shun authority and government, preferring to rely on themselves and their immediate community.  This lack of cohesion has made them victims of the nearby Ravenite nations, who have taken most of their land; they only have a single free nation remaining currently.  They rely heavily on druidic magic, using it to create never-melting ice to shape into weapons or other items.  They prefer names that reference the wind, air or ice such as Gale, Zephyr, Cloud, Atmos, Chilla, Frost, etc.

Siyouans: Torn between two worlds at their peripheries, the Siyouan people find themselves having to choose between the philosophies of Imperial Celestia and the traditions of their Cascadian sisters. While closer in practice to their northern neighbors, the Celestians see them as legally bound to their capitol, as they once were. The Siyouans are a stout, hearty folk often living in the mountains or sometimes underground. They are a disciplined people, bound by tradition and rules.  They use druidic magic to grow magical crystals, which they shape into weapons or other items.  They prefer names that reference the mountains, the earth, metals or gems such as Sierra, Tain (short for mountain), Terra, Gaia, Steel, Argent, Amethyst, Ruby, etc.

Faiths of Overmorrow
Elonnori
The Elonnari believe in a number of spirits of nature, but the biggest and most important is Elonna, Mother Nature, a divine spirit interconnected to all living things. They believe that men brought about the end of the Ancient Ones by neglecting the planet, and so they believe only women have the wisdom and integrity to lead. They consider themselves  humanity's second chance, and if they don't do things right, Elonna may wipe them out entirely next time. Overall, they are peaceful and prefer not to make war; but they will defend themselves and nature from anyone who threatens them.

Most Elonnari cultures have Enatic and Enatic-Cognatic succession, meaning that either only women can inherit titles or women take priority over men. Consequently, most authority figures are women, including rulers and clergy. Priests are allowed to marry and inherit titles. Also, since inheritance follows the mother's bloodline, men take their wives' surnames when they get married, and that name is passed on to children.  In the case of same-sex couples, they are allowed to adopt and pass on titles and family names that way.

There are a number of holy sites that the Elonnari consider sacred, such as Rain Mountain. People can take pilgrimages there, using well worn hiking trails.

Naming conventions lean more toward nature-oriented names. People like to name their children things like Summer, Dawn, Ocean, etc.

The head of the church is the Grand Druid. Under the Grand Druid are the Hierophants, the Great Druids and then the Archdruids, the Druids and finally the Initiates at the bottom. Clerics take orders from the Grand Druid, as well.

The Elonnori believe all life is connected, that anything that lives has a soul, and upon dying, that soul sinks into the planet and rejoins Elonna's massive spirit.  Anything that is born is made from a part of that same spirit.  Thus life and death are part of a never-ending cycle, with every living thing being constantly reincarnated.  An elf may become a human, then a caterpillar, then a hawk, then a tree.  This is not seen as upgrading or downgrading.  All life is equal, all important in its own way.  Consequently, the Elonnori don't believe in an 'afterlife' per se.  Because of this, they view undeath as a terrible sin, as well as raising/resurrection, because this disrupts that cycle.  They are okay with reincarnation, however, as they see that as natural.  They also view all extraplanar creatures (celestials, fiends, elementals, etc.) as spirits of the sky, earth and sea, and know nothing at all about the Outer or Inner Planes.

Their dead are usually buried in the earth, along with seeds to help grow something new to mark their graves.

Ravenites
The Ravenites revere supernatural beings described in their sacred tales, Raven foremost among them. In some tales Raven is playful and benevolent, while in others he is greedy, treacherous, and wanton. He is sometimes loved and sometimes feared. Raven indirectly made the world by stealing and transforming that which came before, and preserved the people though the Dark Times with cleverness and trickery. Other Ravenite gods include Ta'xet and Tia, who rule respectively over violent and peaceful death.

Ravenites believe that animals are a type of people, more intelligent and able to shapechange into humanoid-form.  They also believe in reincarnation, that upon death a person can choose, if they wish, who their new parents will be when they are reborn.  A canoe takes their soul to the spirit realm to await their reincarnation, it is said.  Their dead are often buried (except for slaves, who are unceremoniously tossed into the sea), with nobles being given markers but lowborn are not.

Chrysalist
Chrysalists believe that a single divine being known as the Great Spirit personally guides the fates of everything and everyone in Creation. Chrysalists believe that one can directly communicate with and receive blessings from the Great Spirit through the use of Chrysalis, or "the holy sacrament", during special ceremonies held at specific times.  Their dead are buried in the earth, and it is believed that the souls of the dead pass on to another realm to be with the Great Spirit in what is called the Sky Kingdom.  There, the spirits of the dead live for eternity with their departed loved ones.  Those who live wicked lives are instead cast into the darkest pits of the earth, where they are tortured by evil spirits.

Eurekist
The Golden Ways faith, sometimes called Eurekism, involves the study of philosophical writings by a number of Great Teachers (Gurus). Adherents seek enlightenment through meditation and discussion of the writings. The first Emperor of Celestia formally organized the faith with secular and religious power deeply intertwined within the imperial title, and the head of the faith is traditionally chosen from among his descendants.

Eurekist characters follow one of four schools of thought, or "Ways". These are:

The Way of the Dove - Attracting just and honorable adherents, who desire peace and prosperity within their realms.
The Way of the Tome - Attracting diligent and introspective adherents, who seek enlightenment in this life and the next.
The Way of the Sword - Attracting aggressive and warlike adherents, who love battle and wish to spread the faith at the tip of a sword.
The Way of the Cowl - Attracting ruthless and ambitious adherents, who desire practical methods for acquiring and consolidating power.

Eurekists don't believe in any gods, making Eurekism more of a philosophy than a religion.  Many do believe in an immortal soul that passes on from body to body, but none have yet to proven this hypothesis.

Trailwalker
Trailwalker is a religion invested in the borderland, the crossings between flesh, soul, and dream. Trailwalkers believe in an omnipresent spiritual plane called the Frontier, ruled by a pantheon headed by the Almighty Spirit of the West. In the beginning, there was only the Frontier, and men lived short and harsh lives. However, the Almighty Spirit took pity on humanity and, with the help of his otherworldly servants, cleaved the Range from the Frontier. The Range was the new home of humanity, where men could live free lives. However, in exchange for this gift, the Almighty Spirit asked humanity to follow the Trails, the righteous paths through life. Mankind at first heeded his words, but eventually turned away from the Trails and took the Range for granted. In anger, the Almighty Spirit briefly reunited the Frontier and the Range, destroying mankind's works. Mankind should never again stray from the Trails.

Trailwalkers believe that the Almighty Spirit of the West's domain in the frontier is called the Homestead, a great ranch whose acreage is as big as the outdoors itself, with rooms for everyone who has drawn breath. It houses the good and faithful souls of the dead, those who have been judged worthy in life for keeping the Trails. Next to it stands a great stable where all those steeds who perished in in the service of men are housed. Unbranded, they run free and feast on grass green and unending in the Frontier.  Those who stray from the Trails, however, have a far worse fate upon death.  They are transformed into the Ghost Riders, spirits of eternal anguish that hunt across the skies, warning those who stray and pursuing those who do not repent.

Languages
Racial languages (Elven, Dwarven, etc.) do not exist in this setting.  Rather, each culture has its own language.  There is also no Common tongue, either.

Local Languages
Cascadian
Inlander
Kanatan
Siyouan

Foreign Languages
Gullfolk
Raven Call (Ravenite)
Celestian (Imperial)
Piercer
Snakefolk
Yutan

Exotic Languages
Abyssal
Aquan
Auran
Celestial
Draconic
Druidic
Ignan
Infernal
Sylvan
Terran

Ancient Languages
Eonian

[Daos]

You all can work on your characters here.  You can do so alone, or you can work together if you want your characters to know each other or have some kind of connection to each other.

I have a few ideas for NPCs I came up with, but if you're really having a hard time coming up with any ideas at all, I can sacrifice them to help you out.  If you have multiple ideas, feel free to pitch them all, and we can help you narrow it down.

If there are any questions not covered in this thread already, let me know.

[Matt4]

I went through a few characters concept, but I think I'll go with a Female Half-Elf Rogue (Swashbuckler, eventually).

I did write down a few characteristics/personality traits for her. But I'm still struggling to find a backstory or some goals for her that could make an interesting story. Daos do you have some hooks I could use?

Also, question about languages: as an Half-Elf she would have Common, Elvish and one more language. But since common and elvish don't exist in this setting, do I take three languages of my choice?

[GravityEmblem]

I had an idea for a Human Paladin. She's a faithful and devoted Elonnorian, but one with a (to her peers in the church) disturbing fascination with other interpretations of the faith, like the sect of the Vengeful Mother. She also believes that Salt Whale is in danger of being invaded by Riverdom, in spite of the tributes it gives.

[Daos]

Oct 6, 2022 2:59:48 GMT -8 Matt4 said:

I did write down a few characteristics/personality traits for her. But I'm still struggling to find a backstory or some goals for her that could make an interesting story. Daos do you have some hooks I could use?

Well, let's see.  Swashbucklers are often associated with the sea, and we are on the coast.  So maybe she grew up as a merchant sailor, part of Salt Whale's navy or even a pirate (either currently or possibly reformed, depending on alignment).  Maybe if she's a merchant, she's hoping to one day save up to get a ship and start up a trading route somewhere.  If a naval member, she might be trying to climb the ranks, make captain or even admiral some day.  If a pirate, maybe she wants to go legit (become a privateer) or just get rich and famous.  In any case, perhaps the ship she served on was lost at sea, sunk by pirates/monsters, or stolen from a mutiny, and she is now temporarily displaced and hoping to get revenge or start over again.

If the sea isn't your thing, maybe she's a noble.  To explain her adventuring lifestyle, she could be a bastard, very low on the succession chain, a runaway, disowned or  maybe she's the only survivor after her family was tragically killed (in which case, maybe she's in hiding and looking to retake her ancestral home/title some day).  She could also be looking to prove herself, make a name for herself outside of her family's name, or just live the free life of a lowborn without any of responsibilities or expectations.

If you really want her to stand out, I suppose you could make her Feylost.  Maybe she was swapped at birth, has escaped the Feywild and is now looking to find her replacement and reclaim her life.  Or maybe she wandered into the wilderness, got lost in the Feywild and stumbled out a changed woman.

Oct 6, 2022 2:59:48 GMT -8 Matt4 said:

Also, question about languages: as an Half-Elf she would have Common, Elvish and one more language. But since common and elvish don't exist in this setting, do I take three languages of my choice?

Correct.  I'd say replace Common with the language where she grew up (assuming she's Cascadian, that would be Cascadian then), and the other two can be whatever you wish.

Oct 6, 2022 3:43:09 GMT -8 GravityEmblem said:

I had an idea for a Human Paladin. She's a faithful and devoted Elonnorian, but one with a (to her peers in the church) disturbing fascination with other interpretations of the faith, like the sect of the Vengeful Mother. She also believes that Salt Whale is in danger of being invaded by Riverdom, in spite of the tributes it gives.

Were you thinking Oath of the Ancients or something else?

[GravityEmblem]

That was my intention. I'm planning on being a Variant Human, and taking the Heavy Armor Master Feat--it reduces all nonmagical bludge/pierce/slashing damage by 3, and gives me +1 Strength. So my stats will looks like:

STR 14+1+1
DEX 13
CON 12
INT 8
WIS 10
CHA 15+1

[Matt4]

Oct 6, 2022 11:33:39 GMT -8 Daos said:

  maybe she's the only survivor after her family was tragically killed (in which case, maybe she's in hiding and looking to retake her ancestral home/title some day).  

I like this one! I'll work on this.

For now that's what I have:

Penelope "Poppy" Roquet, Female Half-Elf Rogue, Chaotic Neutral

Stats:
Str: 10
Dex: 15 +1
Con: 13 +1
Int: 8
Wis: 12
Cha: 14+2

Half-Elf skills: Persuasion and Deception
Half-Elf languages: Cascadian, Inlander, Druidic

Background: Entertainer (Performance and Survival in place of Acrobatics)
Tool proficiency: Tambourine (which is also the instrument in her inventory)
Entertainer Routine: Dancer, Singer and Instrumentalist

Rogue skills: Insight, Investigation, Stealth (expertise) and Perception (expertise)
Rogue Equipment: Rapier, shortbow+quiver, burglar's pack

[Daos]

Oct 6, 2022 11:53:07 GMT -8 GravityEmblem said:

That was my intention. I'm planning on being a Variant Human, and taking the Heavy Armor Master Feat--it reduces all nonmagical bludge/pierce/slashing damage by 3, and gives me +1 Strength. So my stats will looks like:

STR 14+1+1
DEX 13
CON 12
INT 8
WIS 10
CHA 15+1

Okay, sounds like she's going to be something of a tank then.

Oct 6, 2022 12:30:09 GMT -8 Matt4 said:

I like this one! I'll work on this.

For now that's what I have:

Penelope "Poppy" Roquet, Female Half-Elf Rogue, Chaotic Neutral

Stats:
Str: 10
Dex: 15 +1
Con: 13 +1
Int: 8
Wis: 12
Cha: 14+2

Half-Elf skills: Persuasion and Deception
Half-Elf languages: Cascadian, Inlander, Druidic

Background: Entertainer (Performance and Survival in place of Acrobatics)
Tool proficiency: Tambourine (which is also the instrument in her inventory)
Entertainer Routine: Dancer, Singer and Instrumentalist

Rogue skills: Insight, Investigation, Stealth (expertise) and Perception (expertise)
Rogue Equipment: Rapier, shortbow+quiver, burglar's pack

Looks good so far.

Also, two PCs so far with 16 CHA scores, and knowing Horizon, she'll likely have a high one, as well.  This is like the opposite of every 2E party I've run games for. 

We''re going to have a Charlie's Angels situation here. 

[Matt4]

Oct 6, 2022 13:52:56 GMT -8 Daos said:

Also, two PCs so far with 16 CHA scores, and knowing Horizon, she'll likely have a high one, as well.  This is like the opposite of every 2E party I've run games for. 

We''re going to have a Charlie's Angels situation here. 

I had the same thought

Btw do you already have something in mind for our first quest?

[Daos]

I sure do.  I've been working on it since last night.

[Matt4]

I've started working on the sheet: Poppy

It should be almost complete, I'll start writing the longer stuff once I get back home in a couple of days.

[GravityEmblem]

Here's my character sheet! I'm thinking of calling her April Showers, but I can come up with something less silly if you'd like.

SPOILER: Click to show

{April}April Showers

Female Human Paladin 1

STR 16 (+3) DEX 13 (+1) CON 12 (+1) INT 8 (-1) WIS 10 (0) CHA 16 (+3)

HP: 11/11

Hit Dice: 1d10/1d10

Proficiency Bonus: +2

AC: 16 [Coral Chain]

Dmg: Unarmed Strike [+0 to hit, 4 bludgeoning]; Glaive [+5 to hit; 1d10+3 slashing damage; reach 10 ft; heavy, two-handed]; Long Sword [+5 to hit; 1d8+3 slashing damage; versatile (1d10+3)]; Javelin [+5 to hit; 1d6+3 piercing damage; thrown (range 30/120)]

Saves: STR +3, DEX +1, CON +1, INT -1, WIS +2, CHA +5

Feats: Heavy Armor Master (+1 Strength; While wearing heavy armor, nonmagical bludgeoning, piercing, and slashing damage is reduced by 3)

Skills: Acrobatics (+1), Animal Handling (+0), Arcana (-1), Athletics (+3), Deception (+3), History (-1), Insight (+2), Intimidation (+5), Investigation (-1), Medicine (+0), Nature (-1), Perception (+2), Performance (+3), Persuasion (+5), Religion (+1), Sleight of Hand (+1), Stealth (+1), Survival (+0)

Racial Abilities: ASI (+1 STR, +1 CHA), Skill Proficiency (Perception), Bonus Feat (Heavy Armor Master)

Class Abilities: Paladin Proficiencies (All armor, shields, simple and martial weapons, WIS and CHA saves, Persuasion, Intimidation), Divine Sense (3/day), Lay on Hands (5 HP/day)

Archetype Abilities: None

Background Abilities: Acolyte Proficiencies (Insight, Religion, Sylvan, Druidic), Shelter of the Faithful

Languages: Cascadian, Inlander, Sylvan, Druidic

My idea was that her mother was a member of the Elonnian church, so she grew up within it, training to be a Paladin. However, her more unorthodox views has caused some conflict with her religious elders.