In here, you will find general information about the world as well as the places you can start at.
Definition Steampunk:
For those that don’t know, steampunk is a sub-genre of science fiction and includes and alternate, often 19th century-esque, world where steam power is widely used. This means machinery as well as weapons (e.g. tanks) are functioning on the basis of a steam engine. Fashion and world are modelled after the Victorian Age.
The World – A look at Danacya
As you can see from the map Danacya is parted in five countries or factions. Your character can start as a member of any faction. However, there are cultural differences that need to be discussed.
Tiribya is a constitutional monarchy under the reign of king Edan. Your starting point here is the town Lithia near the border. It is close to the river and thus an important trading city. Tiribya itself is currently at war with Cathatia over the supremacy of the northern part of the continent. Because of this an alliance with Utaia was made. The border is naturally closed because of the war but it is possible to reach Utaia on the sea way.
Cathatia, the most strict of the factions, is a dictatorship under Alberte Ventura. Times are harsh here. Your starting point is the city Eros, the capital of Cathatia. Here, of course, the reign of Ventura is strongest and thus requires especially those of the resistance to live carefully and stay undetected. Cathatia’s political system is frowned upon by the other nations and it is thus fighting war with all of them.
Utaia, generally considered to be the most diplomatic country, has become a republic not ten years ago. Not only are there still problems within the borders of the country, people not being satisfied by the new constitution and old lords wanting their places back, it is also a very fertile country and being pursued by its southern neighbour because of this. In order to protect its borders Utaia has alliances with both Tiribya and Swannor. Your starting point is Sibannium, a town in the mountains which is the scene for the brewing civil war between old and new powers. Here the lords of Utaia have gathered and plan on overthrowing the government.
Arcion, the most southern nation of Danacya, is a monarchy under queen Alexandra. It is locked in war with both Utaia and Swannor over the matter of territory. Arcion is perhaps the most traditional and medieval of the factions. Your starting place, Mercen, is a small town on the west coast. It is neither special nor important in the grander scheme of things but it is famous for its engineers, which are considered the best in the country.
Swannor, though officially a monarchy, is run by the criminal underground rather than its king. Nowhere in Danacya is the criminal record as high as here. The police are helpless and the king corrupt and being manipulated. Your starting point Aruna, a town in the middle of the country, is known to be a town of bandits and foul dealings. Where good citizens have to fear for their lives and whores are a common sight, your character shouldn’t get on the bad side of the leading bandit group.
Further notes on society for character creation
As you can see the societies of the factions differ greatly. You should note that during character creation and roleplaying.
As such it is generally possible for your female character to join the army or be an engineer and such. However, especially Arcion with its medieval society does not look kindly upon that. So, there your female chara should be disguised as male to do the above mentioned. Other than that you need to think of your characters background. For example, the daughter of an Utaian lord, who is still very conservative and against the new system, wouldn't fight either. On the other hand someone working in the resistance in Cathatia wouldn't go to tea parties and social gatherings where he or she could be seen.
Please be aware that as a player you can take little to no influence on the overarching story of the war. Your character can fight in it and even help winning it, but you can't influence the end of battles. If there are any questions please ask Foxy or me.
