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Message no. 1
From: ANANDA%BSU.DECNET@*****
Subject: "new" totems
Date: Tue, 2 Jun 92 14:14:00 CST
The Secrets of Power trilogy includes a _rock_ shaman from Australia, which
might be used to give some justification for other "elemental" shaman types.
But then, awakened Australia is several orders of magnitude stranger than just
about anyplace else on the planet.

The London Sourcebook has druids, but they are rather different than what I'd
expected. Sorry, can't remember any details at the moment...

Someone mentioned a Challenge or White Wolf magazine article that included New
Orleans and details about voodoo magic. Could someone please tell me which mag
and issue #?

Interesting possible source for new awakened critters: Gamma World. I think
other post-apocalypse (sp?) games might have some fun new critters, too.
(Anyone want to go jackalope hunting? :)

I got involved in a discussion on SR druids a while back before the London
Sourcebook existed. While we never really came up with anything solid on
druids (we disagreed too much), we did come up with one intriguing idea. We
thought it might be interesting if someone could conjure up faerie folk and
other personages from Celtic myth. When the conjurer tries to summon one
specific person or faerie, that individual would "hear" about the summons, but
would not have to show up. The fey folk are a capricious bunch... Depending
on what they felt like at the moment (read: depending on the results of the
conjuring test :), they might choose to appear personally, or send a minion,
not show up at all, show up and mis-interpret the mage's demands (usually with
a mischevious but non-harmful bent, but not always...), or if the roll is
botched, a faerie opposed to the one summoned might hear the call and do
something.... This one could be *lots* of fun (at least for the gm! >:-).

Imagine a mage conjuring one of the fey folk, and having Robin Goodfellow show
up. . . .

--Ananda

ananda%bsu.decnet@*****.msus.edu /ananda%bsu@*****.msus.edu \__if the .decnet
ananda%bsu.decnet@*****.bitnet \ananda%bsu@*****.bitnet / causes problems

`Your definition of the word "interesting" was always a little broader than
mine.'
--Pug, to Tomas
Raymond E. Feist's _Riftwar_Saga_
Message no. 2
From: Dave The Shade <IZZYUX2@*******.BITNET>
Subject: New Totems
Date: Mon, 26 Jul 1993 20:57:00 PDT
Robert Hayden could you confirm that you have recieved my E-mail post detailing
my new Totems: Tiger and Griffin. Furthermore, could you please post them here,
as I have no copy of them. Thanx in advance.


On totems, I believe that Priests/Rabbis/Mullahs (Monotheistic religions)
practice a kind of hermetic magic. Kabballa for Judaic, Mystic Systems by Roger
Bacon the Monk for Christians, and Moorish Formulaic Magic for Muslims.

As for gods like Thor, Tyr, Appollo, Nike, they should be treated as Totems -
perhaps based on some "natural" Phenomena. In my game, a nasty blood cult
worships Kali (Indian Death Goddess) of the Blood Moon.


KHANx
Message no. 3
From: Dave The Shade <IZZYUX2@***.OAC.UCLA.EDU>
Subject: New Totems
Date: Sun, 25 Jul 93 21:06 PDT
Submission: On Newly Discovered Totems
Designer: David J. Altman
E-Mail: izzyux2@***.oac.ucla.edu

Description:

Tiger
Characteristics: Tiger is a stealthy hunter and prowler. She is a loner who is
both ferocious and cunning. She is sleek and beautiful, especially when making
her kill. Tiger often exudes a kind of deadly charisma. Subtlety is how she
prefers to deal with her enemies, but she will face challenges directly if she
has to. She is a cold and ruthless huntress who will not stop until her prey is
caught.
Preffered Environment: Jungle
Advantages: +2 Dice for Combat and Detection spells
Disadvantages: Tiger is often unpredictable, she will sometimes be brutally
direct, other times excrutiatingly subtle. One constant is her loathing of
leaving survivors to a kill. Tiger can be cold and cruel to the point of
alienating her comrades. Her Charisma and appeal can cause problems within and
without the party.




Griffin
Characteristics: Griffin is the epitomy of bravery, strength, and loyalty. He
usually can be found paired with someone else. While he is usually the
strongest, he is a follower not a leader. Griffin is direct and unambiguous,
preferring to challenge and duel directly with his foe.
Environment: Anywhere
Advantages: +2 dice to Sorcery, but +2 to Target Numbers for Illusion spells
Disadvantages: Griffin is bold and direct, he abhors trickery and subtlety. Gri
ffin holds honor in high regard - and often will not do what he considers to be
dishonorable. Often Griffin will need to be convinced of the rightness of a
course of action. Also, Griffin is strongly attracted to those of high Charisma
, and will often believe them - even if it is illogical to do so.






Here it is, Mr. Hayden

From KHANx


{[> Robert A. Hayden ____ #include <std_disclaimer.h> <]}
{[> \ /__ ------------------------------- <]}
{[> aq650@****.INS.CWRU.Edu \/ / Bigotry is what is incompatible <]}
{[> hayden@*******.mankato.msus.edu \/ with military service. <]}
-=-=-
GEEK CODE v1.0.1: GSS d- -p+(---) c++(++++) l++ u++ e+/* m++(*)@ s-/++
n-(---) h+(*) f+ g+ w++ t++ r++ y+(*)

-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Random Thought:

Because. Because I say it isn't.
-- Senator Dan Quayle explaining why questions about
his parents' ties to the John Birch Society aren't
relevant, 10/9/88 (reported in Esquire, 8/92)
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
Message no. 4
From: Laughing Boy <JLR@******.UCC.NAU.EDU>
Subject: New Totems
Date: Thu, 28 Apr 1994 11:42:12 -0700
I am thinking of posting some of the totems I created. Before I do, I'm
want to know whether or not they've already been done to death.
The totems are: Horse, Bison, Mongoose, Wolverine, Fenris, Otter, Hare (I
think I did that one) and Badger (weasels are cool...heh-heh-heh). I might
have some others that I've forgotten. Thanx for any input and please no flames.
-Laughing Boy

P.S. The Fenris shaman is NPC only (like toxics or bugs)

_________________________________________________________________________
I"Elvis the Dark God Above, Below and sometimes Sideways" -Laughing boy I
I I
I"Elvis, long may he reign, his power is eternal"-Laughing boy I
I I
I"Pray for the coming of SMURF!" -Laughing boy I
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message no. 5
From: "C. Paul Douglas" <granite@*****.NET>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Thu, 28 Apr 1994 15:36:46 -0400
On Thu, 28 Apr 1994, Laughing Boy wrote:

> I am thinking of posting some of the totems I created. Before I do, I'm
> want to know whether or not they've already been done to death.
> The totems are: Horse, Bison, Mongoose, Wolverine, Fenris, Otter, Hare (I
> think I did that one) and Badger (weasels are cool...heh-heh-heh). I might
> have some others that I've forgotten. Thanx for any input and please no flames.
> -Laughing Boy
>
> P.S. The Fenris shaman is NPC only (like toxics or bugs)

I don't recall them being done to death..Some of them sound
interesting..I would suggest however break them up and post them
seperately..That way they won't be too big..
--------------GRANITE
Message no. 6
From: "Bill P. Flint" <claymore@******.DIGEX.NET>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Thu, 28 Apr 1994 15:39:06 -0400
I would like to see these totems personally.

--Claymore
Message no. 7
From: Doc_X <northrup@*****.CAS.USF.EDU>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Thu, 28 Apr 1994 17:11:24 -0400
On Thu, 28 Apr 1994, Laughing Boy wrote:

> The totems are: Horse, Bison, Mongoose, Wolverine, Fenris, Otter, Hare (I
> think I did that one) and Badger (weasels are cool...heh-heh-heh).

"I wanna make friends with the badger.."

Doc X
*****************************************************************************
* Dylan Northrup <northrup@*****.cas.usf.edu> * I'm not a computer genius *
*********************************************** I just play one in the lab *
* "...And I should have thought of that before I did you wrong" -- Yaz *
*****************************************************************************
Message no. 8
From: "Robert A. Hayden" <hayden@*******.MANKATO.MSUS.EDU>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Thu, 28 Apr 1994 16:26:08 -0500
We also need totems for:

Duck-Billed Platypus
Jellyfish
Dodo Bird
Penguin
Octopus
Squid
Sea Monkey

____ Robert A. Hayden <=> hayden@*******.mankato.msus.edu
\ /__ -=-=-=-=- <=> -=-=-=-=-
\/ / Finger for Geek Code Info <=> Political Correctness is
\/ Finger for PGP 2.3a Public Key <=> P.C. for "Thought Police"
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
(GEEK CODE 1.0.1) GAT d- -p+(---) c++(++++) l++ u++ e+/* m++(*)@ s-/++
n-(---) h+(*) f+ g+ w++ t++ r++ y+(*)
Message no. 9
From: "Willard M. Cottrell" <UGCOTTRE@******.BITNET>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Thu, 28 Apr 1994 19:40:08 EDT
There has been a lot of talk about new totems lately and as I have none
of the magazines or books to which have been refered, I would greatly
appreciate it if any of you that can could send me (personally) the
write ups you might have.
Thank you very much.
P.S. Both my internet and bitnet addresses are within my sig.

+-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-+-=--=--=--=--=--=---=--=--=--=--=--=-+
| Willard Martin Cottrell | /| ///// |
Bitnet: UGCOTTRE@****** <
=======================<<<<<=
| Internet: UGCOTTRE@*****.CIS.ECU.EDU | ›| ››››› |
+-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-+-=--=--=--=--=--=---=--=--=--=--=--=-+
Indian Pledge of Allegiance

I pledge allegiance to my Tribe, to the democratic priciples of the Republic
and to the individual freedoms borrowed from the Iroquois and Choctaw
Confederacies, as incorporated in the United States Constitution,
so that my forefathers shall not have died in vain.
+-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-+
Message no. 10
From: Gian-Paolo Musumeci <musumeci@***.LIS.UIUC.EDU>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Thu, 28 Apr 1994 19:27:29 -0500
I have been developing a spiffy totem myself.
Message no. 11
From: Nightfox <DJWA@******.UCC.NAU.EDU>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Thu, 28 Apr 1994 19:52:32 -0700
>On Thu, 28 Apr 1994, Laughing Boy wrote:
>
>> The totems are: Horse, Bison, Mongoose, Wolverine, Fenris, Otter, Hare (I
>> think I did that one) and Badger (weasels are cool...heh-heh-heh).
>
>"I wanna make friends with the badger.."
>
>Doc X


Badgers!!!!!!!

We don't need no stinking Badgers!!!!!!

*smirk*

Nightfox
Daniel Waisley
Message no. 12
From: Nightfox <DJWA@******.UCC.NAU.EDU>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Thu, 28 Apr 1994 20:02:50 -0700
>We also need totems for:
>
> Duck-Billed Platypus
> Jellyfish
> Dodo Bird
> Penguin
> Octopus
> Squid
> Sea Monkey
>
>____ Robert A. Hayden <=> hayden@*******.mankato.msus.edu

He's been asking for it hasn't he.

so
Me Me Me Me Me......



Humor Focus.


Thwapitty... ------- THWAP! ------- THWAP!


:):):):):):) :):) :):) :):) :):) :):) :):):):) :) :)
:)TTTTTTTTTT :)HH :)HH :)WW :)WW :)AA :)PPPPPPP :) :)
:)TT :)HH :)HH :)WW :)WW :)AAAA :)PP :)PP :) :)
:)TT :)HH:):)HH :)WW :)WW :)AA :)AA :)PP :)PP :) :)
:)TT :)HHHHHHHH :)WW:)WW:)WW :)AA :)AA :)PPPPPPP :) :)
:)TT :)HH :)HH :)WW:)WW:)WW :)AAAAAAAA :)PP :) :)
:)TT :)HH :)HH :)WWWWWWWWWW :)AA :)AA :)PP .. ..
:)TT :)HH :)HH :)WW :)WW :)AA :)AA :)PP \/ \/


One cold slimy dead carp cream pie.
Use wisely. Nightfox and Seraphylanjaligigusnort

AHHHHH much better.
Oooohhhh what a large carp you have!!!!

Nightfox
Mutants for a better tomorrow
.
\_/ its a one eyed
smiley face

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
Daniel Waisley + SCA - March of Ered Sul - Flagstaff AZ
DJWA@******.UCC.NAU.EDU + Nau fencing club.
"Nightfox" + Brotherhood of the Cryptic Demesne - Fencing house
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
" A lack of knowledge is a dangerous thing. I am the most dangerous man in the
universe." - Daniel Waisley "Nightfox"
--------------------------------------------------------------------------------
AND NOW BACK TO OUR REGULARLY SCHEDULED BORING LIST!!!
Message no. 13
From: "Willard M. Cottrell" <UGCOTTRE@******.BITNET>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Thu, 28 Apr 1994 23:05:08 EDT
Robert Hayden: (making a sarcastic <I hope> reference to new totems)
>Duckbilled Platypus
Now I think an Australian Shaman would take offense to you sarcasm.
This may a legitimate idea. :-)
>Octopus
>Squid
I'd blend the two but who's to say these again couldn't be legit.
>Dodo Bird
>Sea Monkey
These would deffinitely be pushing it. (Just a Little) '-)

+-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-+-=--=--=--=--=--=---=--=--=--=--=--=-+
| Willard Martin Cottrell | /| ///// |
Bitnet: UGCOTTRE@****** <
=======================<<<<<=
| Internet: UGCOTTRE@*****.CIS.ECU.EDU | ›| ››››› |
+-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-+-=--=--=--=--=--=---=--=--=--=--=--=-+
Indian Pledge of Allegiance

I pledge allegiance to my Tribe, to the democratic priciples of the Republic
and to the individual freedoms borrowed from the Iroquois and Choctaw
Confederacies, as incorporated in the United States Constitution,
so that my forefathers shall not have died in vain.
+-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-+
Message no. 14
From: "C. Paul Douglas" <granite@*****.NET>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Thu, 28 Apr 1994 23:21:23 -0400
On Thu, 28 Apr 1994, Robert A. Hayden wrote:

> We also need totems for:
>
> Dodo Bird

If we are going to do totems foe extinct lifeforms lets make `em
ancient...T-Rex, Brontosaur [or whatever they call it now], Supersaur,
Tricerotops,....Or maybe simply a Dino-Shaman....
--------------------GRANITE
Message no. 15
From: Unix_Kurs7044 <c7044@*****.RZ.UNI-REGENSBURG.DE>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Fri, 29 Apr 1994 10:04:15 +0200
In the Tir Na nOg SourceBook there`s a description of HORSE. You might first lok at that
one ...

St.Willkofer
Message no. 16
From: Gurth <jweste%smtp@******.HZEELAND.NL>
Subject: New Totems - Reply
Date: Fri, 29 Apr 1994 11:22:59 +0200
>I am thinking of posting some of the totems I created. Before I do, I'm
>want to know whether or not they've already been done to death.
>The totems are: Horse, Bison, Mongoose, Wolverine, Fenris, Otter, Hare
>(I think I did that one) and Badger (weasels are cool...heh-heh-heh). I
>might have some others that I've forgotten. Thanx for any input and
> please no flames.

Horse is in NAGEE5. But I'd be very interested in the others. Gives me
some new NPC shamans to let the players get up against
Message no. 17
From: A cohort's CoHort <cohort@******.CONNECTED.COM>
Subject: Re: New Totems - Reply
Date: Fri, 29 Apr 1994 03:35:34 -0700
How about a Beavis & Butthead totem?

cohort@******.connected.com
-----=====-----
If you're not part of the solution, you're part of the precipitate.
When all else fails, read the manual.
Message no. 18
From: Bryan Prince <WALAB@******.HH.VANDERBILT.EDU>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Fri, 29 Apr 1994 07:16:54 -0600
How can you have a totem for an extinct species? Toxic, perhaps (hmmmm....)


I am, of course, referring to the dodo.....

Bryan Prince
Message no. 19
From: Bryan Prince <WALAB@******.HH.VANDERBILT.EDU>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Fri, 29 Apr 1994 07:46:19 -0600
Ok, guys, I finally found my copy of WW with the totems. It is WW#30, Feb.
1992. The answer to the question about Manipulation/ Illusion spells is:

(drumroll please.....)

OTTER and SWAN!

Here they are:
Otter
Advantages:
+2 dice manipulation and illusion spells
+2 dice for conjuring Spirits of the Water

She is playful and fears nothing, because she takes nothing seriously.
She is not a trickster, but fond of practical jokes(harmless ones).
She does not engage in anything not directly related to her own survival
unless it promises to be good for a few laughs.

Environment: On or near Water.

Disadvantages: Otter is easily bored. If the thrills and excitemant slow
down too much,the shaman must make a willpower success test(TN=4). Failure
means the shaman becomes distracted and suffers a +1 modifier to all TN's,
magical and non-magical, pertaining to her original objective. It takes a
test with TN=6 to get her back on track.
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Swan
Advantages:
+2 dice for manipulation and illusion spells.
+2 dice for River or Lake Spirits

She is graceful and charismatic. She can also be egocentric and fickle.
She enjoys being the center of attention, and does her best to obtain
that position and hold it.

Environment: In and around FRESH water.

Disadvantages:Swan shamans demand a high lifestyle of better. They are
often performers, divas, or primaballerinas living in sheltered worlds.
Swan likes things neat and orderly, subtract 1 die from COMBAT spells,
since such things are unsettling and messy.
-----------------------------------------------------------------------
Those are paraphrased from the WW issue. All errors in copying and spelling
are my own. Runners, this is a must have issue--there are some really good
totems here.

Bryan Prince :)
Message no. 20
From: "C. Paul Douglas" <granite@*****.NET>
Subject: Re: New Totems - Reply
Date: Fri, 29 Apr 1994 09:24:19 -0400
On Fri, 29 Apr 1994, A cohort's CoHort wrote:

> How about a Beavis & Butthead totem?

That would have to be for an NPC some sort of low intell toxic shaman
-----------------------GRANITE
Message no. 21
From: "C. Paul Douglas" <granite@*****.NET>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Fri, 29 Apr 1994 09:34:50 -0400
On Fri, 29 Apr 1994, Bryan Prince wrote:

> How can you have a totem for an extinct species? Toxic, perhaps (hmmmm....)
>
>
> I am, of course, referring to the dodo.....
>
> Bryan Prince
>
Why would it need to be toxic..that implys that to be come extinct is to
become corrupt...I do not see why this would be..
----------------------------GRANITE
Message no. 22
From: Pieter Van Dyck <Pieter.VanDyck@***.AC.BE>
Subject: Re: New Totems - Reply
Date: Fri, 29 Apr 1994 16:25:10 +0200
On Fri, 29 Apr 1994, A cohort's CoHort wrote:

> How about a Beavis & Butthead totem?
>
Aaargh, no, stop it! Huhuh, no way dude, suffer! Huhuh, huh.
***********************************************************************
* Grundlord * Life sucks! *
* Pieter.VanDyck@***.ac.be * That's why old people get wrinkled. *
***********************************************************************
(GEEK CODE 1.0.1) GCS/AT -d+(?) -p+(---) c++(++++) l+ u e*(+) m+(--)
s(-)/ !n(--) h+() f+(?) g++ w(++) t+ r++@ !y
Message no. 23
From: "J.W.Thomas" <cm5323@***.AC.UK>
Subject: Re: New Totems - Reply
Date: Fri, 29 Apr 1994 15:45:17 +0100
>
> On Fri, 29 Apr 1994, A cohort's CoHort wrote:
>
> > How about a Beavis & Butthead totem?
> >
> Aaargh, no, stop it! Huhuh, no way dude, suffer! Huhuh, huh.
> ***********************************************************************
> * Grundlord * Life sucks! *
> * Pieter.VanDyck@***.ac.be * That's why old people get wrinkled. *
> ***********************************************************************
> (GEEK CODE 1.0.1) GCS/AT -d+(?) -p+(---) c++(++++) l+ u e*(+) m+(--)
> s(-)/ !n(--) h+() f+(?) g++ w(++) t+ r++@ !y
>

That'd be COOL...yeh huh huh huh
That'd like really ROCK...year!
<misc juvenile snortings>
Heres the rules...
+1 die for city spirits(couch spirits)
+1 die for all fire based combat manipulations
(FIRE!! FIRE !!! FIRE !!!)
Willpower test (TN4)whenever near fire to not get overexcited
willpower test (TN6) to not go and set fire to something when
bored
Must stop whenever hears rock music,and either :
say "this rocks" and mosh badly
or
say "this sucks" and change channels

CHOPPER
Message no. 24
From: Pieter Van Dyck <Pieter.VanDyck@***.AC.BE>
Subject: Re: New Totems - Reply
Date: Fri, 29 Apr 1994 16:40:26 +0200
The B&B totem:
Also a -2TN if cooperating with likeminded due to total chaos.

***********************************************************************
* Grundlord * Life sucks! *
* Pieter.VanDyck@***.ac.be * That's why old people get wrinkled. *
***********************************************************************
(GEEK CODE 1.0.1) GCS/AT -d+(?) -p+(---) c++(++++) l+ u e*(+) m+(--)
s(-)/ !n(--) h+() f+(?) g++ w(++) t+ r++@ !y
Message no. 25
From: Bryan Prince <WALAB@******.HH.VANDERBILT.EDU>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Fri, 29 Apr 1994 11:35:48 -0600
If a species is extinct, then the conditions under which the species
thrived have become irreversably (sp?) changed to the detriment of the
species. Gaia (if you want to get mystical) can no longer support the
species, because of the change and I feel any totem built on extinction
would be toxic. [the end of life and all that...]
In cases where man is the reason a species is extinct, the totem
would have a bias against man or be working to "do unto man..."
This, of course, is my opinion. I welcome comments and suggestions--
NO FLAMES PLEASE

BTW here is the first posting of my .sig (no geek code yet)

+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
+ Bryan Prince, aka SHADOWMASTER + "I don't believe in the no-win +
+ WALAB@******.hh.vanderbilt.edu + situation" J.T.Kirk +
+ ---------------------------------+ "Our future lies out there, +
+ This space for rent :) + among the stars" B.Prince +
+++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++
Message no. 26
From: jacob hawkins <HAWKINSJ@********.WA.COM>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Fri, 29 Apr 1994 22:18:59 +0200
Ya know with the mention of the duck-billed platypus, I got to
wondering about Australian Aboriginal magic? WOW metaplanes being
the Dreamtime. I don't really think it works with the simple
shamanic system though. I mean I know its not hermetic, but what
would it be? I'm gonna have to think on this and maybe throw it at
my players in a while.

Heehee...kangaroos, wombats...

Wombats?

WOMBATS! WOMBATS! WOMBATS!


/---/
\---\ _ _ _
\---/NaKeBait-/ \_/ \_/ \-<
Message no. 27
From: Laughing Boy <JLR@******.UCC.NAU.EDU>
Subject: New Totems
Date: Fri, 29 Apr 1994 14:15:52 -0700
Ok here they are. The totems are: Badger, Otter, Weasel, Horse, Bison, Elk,
Mongoose, Wolverine and Fenrir.

BADGER
Characteristics: Badger is a loner. He is often cranky and can be violent
if disturbed. Badger is a wicked fighter, but rarely attacks if let alone.
Badger shamans dislike working with others, prefering to work on their own.
Enviroment: forest or prairie
Advantages: +2 dice for combat spells, +2 dice for conjuring forest or prairie
(shaman's choice)
Disadvantages: Badger shamans subtract 1 die when cating a spell while working
with a group. They subtract 2 dice for group ritual spells.

OTTER
Characteristics: Otter is playful and inquisitive. Otter shamans will often
take a run just because it sounds interesting or fun. Otter likes to play
jokes, but he means well. Otters jokes will often be harmless illusions.
Otter enjoys finding out secrets and then telling everybody.
Enviroment: River or ocean shore
Advantages: +2 dice for illusion spells, +2 dice for river or sea spirits
(shaman's choice), +1 die for detection spells
Disadvantages: Shamans of otter often get themselves in over their head. Otter
is not a great fighter, prefering flight to fight. Otter shamans get -3 dice
for combat spells and -1 die for attack manipulations.

WEASEL
Characteristics: Weasel is sneaky. He dislikes to do anything unless he's
sure he will get something out of it. Weasel is a coward and a thief.
Enviroment: forest
Advantages: +2 dice to illusion spells, +2 dice for conjuring forest spirits
Disadvantages: -2 dice for combat spells. Weasel won't fight unless he's
cornered.

-Laughing Boy, the totem guy

_________________________________________________________________________
I"Elvis the Dark God Above, Below and sometimes Sideways" -Laughing boy I
I I
I"Elvis, long may he reign, his power is eternal"-Laughing boy I
I I
I"Pray for the coming of SMURF!" -Laughing boy I
-------------------------------------------------------------------------
Message no. 28
From: J Gavigan <csc086@*****.LANCS.AC.UK>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Sat, 30 Apr 1994 00:04:09 +0100
> Gaia (if you want to get mystical) can no longer support the...

Or if you play Werewolf. :)

Dodger
Message no. 29
From: Robert Brown <badgerb@***.COM>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Sun, 1 May 1994 17:08:06 EDT
I for one would be most interested in seeing these (especially the Badger
totem) :)


Badger
The Only Badger Ever Elected Emperor of the Hill.
Message no. 30
From: "Willard M. Cottrell" <UGCOTTRE@******.BITNET>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Mon, 2 May 1994 00:52:40 EDT
>heehee...Kangaroos, Wombats...

Why not Tasmanian Devil...
Crocodile...
Tasmanian Wolf...
Goanna... (big lizard)
Anyone out there developed any Australian cities?

+-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-+-=--=--=--=--=--=---=--=--=--=--=--=-+
| Willard Martin Cottrell | /| ///// |
Bitnet: UGCOTTRE@****** <
=======================<<<<<=
| Internet: UGCOTTRE@*****.CIS.ECU.EDU | ›| ››››› |
+-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-+-=--=--=--=--=--=---=--=--=--=--=--=-+
Indian Pledge of Allegiance

I pledge allegiance to my Tribe, to the democratic priciples of the Republic
and to the individual freedoms borrowed from the Iroquois and Choctaw
Confederacies, as incorporated in the United States Constitution,
so that my forefathers shall not have died in vain.
+-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-+
Message no. 31
From: Bryan Prince <WALAB@******.HH.VANDERBILT.EDU>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Mon, 2 May 1994 08:03:03 -0600
W.M.Cottrell asks about Australian Cities....

Try FASA's KAGE magazine for SR. I think it was the 4th or 5th issue. htey
did the whole continent.
Bryan Prince aka SHADOWMASTER
Message no. 32
From: "Willard M. Cottrell" <UGCOTTRE@******.BITNET>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Mon, 2 May 1994 13:17:33 EDT
How does one get back issues of KAGE magazine?
I haven't subscribed...YET!

+-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-+-=--=--=--=--=--=---=--=--=--=--=--=-+
| Willard Martin Cottrell | /| ///// |
Bitnet: UGCOTTRE@****** <
=======================<<<<<=
| Internet: UGCOTTRE@*****.CIS.ECU.EDU | ›| ››››› |
+-=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=--=-+-=--=--=--=--=--=---=--=--=--=--=--=-+
Indian Pledge of Allegiance

I pledge allegiance to my Tribe, to the democratic priciples of the Republic
and to the individual freedoms borrowed from the Iroquois and Choctaw
Confederacies, as incorporated in the United States Constitution,
so that my forefathers shall not have died in vain.
+-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-+
Message no. 33
From: Slim Goodbody <zcarr@******.UCS.INDIANA.EDU>
Subject: New Totems
Date: Thu, 2 Jun 1994 17:03:21 -0600
I'm interested in putting together a shaman for a new group. None of the
totems listed in the books appeal to me at all. Are there any totems out
there that are not in the rule books? i.e.- that were made up by others.
The one I am particularly interested in is rabbit. I am pretty sure I've
seen some alternate totems, (like beaver and ferret). What about
para-totems? unicorns? gargoyles? anything like that? if these do exist,
where can I get a list?

--==Prophet of Puyallup==--
_____________________________________________________________________________
/ / / / They had been corrupted by money, and he had been corrupted by |
| | | | sentiment. Sentiment was the more dangerous, because you couldn't |
\ \ \ \ name its price. A man open to bribes was to be relied upon below |
\ \ \ \ a certain figure, but sentiment might uncoil in the heart at |
| | | | a name, a photograph, even a smell remembered. -Graham Greene |
\ \ \ \_______________________________________________________________|
\__\__\__/
Message no. 34
From: "Jason Carter, Nightstalker" <CARTER@***.EDU>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Thu, 2 Jun 1994 22:40:33 -0700
Read my lips:

NO PARANORMAL TOTEMS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

*******************************************************************************
* See Ya in Shadows * * "Trust No One." *
* Jason J Carter * Carter@***.EDU * The late Deep Throat *
* The Nightstalker * * The X-Files *
*******************************************************************************
Message no. 35
From: "Robert A. Hayden" <hayden@*******.MANKATO.MSUS.EDU>
Subject: Re: New Totems
Date: Fri, 3 Jun 1994 01:19:11 -0500
On Thu, 2 Jun 1994, Jason Carter, Nightstalker wrote:

> Read my lips:
>
> NO PARANORMAL TOTEMS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!1

I still want someone to make a Yeast Totem....

____ Robert A. Hayden <=> hayden@*******.mankato.msus.edu
\ /__ -=-=-=-=- <=> -=-=-=-=-
\/ / Finger for Geek Code Info <=> I do not necessarily speak for the
\/ Finger for PGP Public Key <=> City of Mankato or Blue Earth County
-=-=-=-=-=-=-=-
(GEEK CODE 1.0.1) GAT d- -p+(---) c++(++++) l++ u++ e+/* m++(*)@ s-/++
n-(---) h+(*) f+ g+ w++ t++ r++ y+(*)
Message no. 36
From: "S.K. Khoo" <S.K.Khoo@*********.AC.UK>
Subject: Re: New totems
Date: Fri, 3 Jun 1994 10:19:58 +0100
In reply to Robert Hayden concerning "yeast totems" ...

First generation SK-1 Thwap. >:+) Heh heh heh !


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Message no. 37
From: Nexx Many-Scars <Nexx3@***.COM>
Subject: New Totems...
Date: Fri, 10 Jul 1998 22:51:05 EDT
I've got a couple, one of which isn't really serious, but will likely be more
influential than we like, while the other is deadly serious... but few will
ever see.

Dunkelzahn (Urban Totem)
After Dunkelzahn's death, there was more fruitcake literature going through
the mails than just after Thanksgiving. It seems the Big D captured the
hearts and minds of many people, allowing them to believe, perhaps for the
first time, in the future of Homo sapiens. Some months after the reading of
the Will, one coherent voice emerged from the masses of Dunkelzahn groupies.
Calling himself, rather presumptiously, The Speaker, he claimed that his
magical talent Awakened as a gift from the late Great Dragon. While most
magical theorist wrote him off as a fraud, Dr. Arnold Ledbetter invited him
onto his show (which did nothing for The Speaker's credibility) and many
people heard and believed the words of The Speaker. Soon after, more people
appeared weilding magic given to them by Dunkelzahn, the People's Dragon.

Characteristics: Dunkelzahn loves and believes in (meta)humanity. He works to
help heal the breaches between people and their world, and to uncover the
Truth where he can. A shaman of Dunkelzahn works to help (meta)humanity work
in harmony with his envioroment and each other, and to find the secrets kept
by those in high places.

Favored Envioroments: Mountains, and anywhere man resides.

Advantages: A shaman of Dunkelzahn gains +2 dice to Health and Detection
spells, as well as +2 dice to summon Mountain spirits and any one spirit of
Man

Disadvantages: In addition to the near complete inability to be taken
seriously initially by most professionals, shamans of Dunkelzahn must have an
initial Charisma of 4, because Dunkelzahn was known to be such a great
presence. Shamans of Dunkelzahn go out of their way to help people, often
donating some of their time teaching and healing the underpriveledged, and
sometimes working "at cost" for worthy causes.

--------
(Western) Dragon
Characteristics: Dragon is both physically and magically powerful, and
impressive presence and unconcerned with the goals of others, insofar as they
do not conflict or coincide with his own. Dragon is by nature acquisitive,
but can be either direct or subtle, as the situation requires.

Advantages: Dragon gains +2 dice to Illusion and Manipulation spells, as well
as +2 dice to summon any one Spirit of the Sky and any two other Nature
Spirits.

Disadvantages: Dragon is a powerful creature, and therefore must put 4 points
in all attributes (before alterations are made for race). Also, Dragon reacts
very poorly to setbacks, and must make a Willpower (4) test each time his
plans are thwarted, or fly into a rage for 3 rounds, less one for each success
scored.

--------

Well, what do you think? Hit me, I can take it.

Nexx
"CCG = Crack Catching Gamers"
Message no. 38
From: Grahamdrew <mnemonic25@*********.COM>
Subject: Re: New Totems...
Date: Sat, 11 Jul 1998 00:11:30 -0400
> Advantages: A shaman of Dunkelzahn gains +2 dice to Health and Detection
> spells, as well as +2 dice to summon Mountain spirits and any one spirit of
> Man


Maybe add a clause about onle curitive health spell get the bonus...
like decrease attribute doesn't . IMHO many more totems should make
this distinction
Message no. 39
From: Iridios <iridios@*********.COM>
Subject: Re: New Totems...
Date: Sat, 11 Jul 1998 00:21:02 -0400
Grahamdrew wrote:
Sat, 11 Jul 1998 00:11:30 -0400

> > Advantages: A shaman of Dunkelzahn gains +2 dice to Health and Detection
> > spells, as well as +2 dice to summon Mountain spirits and any one spirit of
> > Man
>
> Maybe add a clause about onle curitive health spell get the bonus...
> like decrease attribute doesn't . IMHO many more totems should make
> this distinction

But decrease attribute is such a good way to keep "deranged" criminals from
harming themselves. ;)


--"Any science, sufficiently advanced is indistinguishable from magic."
--Arthur C. Clarke

Iridios
iridios@*********.com
http://www.geocities.com/Area51/Shadowlands/9489
http://members.theglobe.com/Iridios

-------Begin Geek Code Block------
GS d-(++) s+: a- C++ U?@>++ P L E?
W++ N o-- K- w(---) O? M-- V? PS+@
PE Y+ !PGP>++ t++@ 5+ X++@ R++@ tv
b+ DI++ !D G e+@>++++ h--- r+++ y+++
-------End Geek Code Block--------
Message no. 40
From: K is the Symbol <Ereskanti@***.COM>
Subject: Re: New Totems...
Date: Sat, 11 Jul 1998 02:08:49 EDT
In a message dated 7/10/98 9:51:55 PM US Eastern Standard Time, Nexx3@***.COM
writes:

<snipped Dunkelzahn and Dragon as totem options>

> Well, what do you think? Hit me, I can take it.

Nexx, I almost wish you hadn't snuck me the little teaser of this. When I
first opened this one, I thought "Oh boy, here we go, I wanna see Erik or MC
explode over these"...but after I read them, thought for a few, I have reached
a decision. The following is <IC>

Binder'll come walking up to the stone they've erected for Dunkelzahn, place a
single white mountain rose on the stone in Arlington. He'll smile, and inform
the spirits of the place ... "they've done you justice ol' wyrm. You would be
proud..."

And walk away in total, absolute honor.

-K (Screw the rest, it's a game, and those could be fun if the hands of a good
role player)
Message no. 41
From: Alfredo B Alves <dghost@****.COM>
Subject: Re: New Totems...
Date: Sat, 11 Jul 1998 03:41:13 -0500
On Fri, 10 Jul 1998 22:51:05 EDT Nexx Many-Scars <Nexx3@***.COM> writes:
>I've got a couple, one of which isn't really serious, but will likely be
more
>influential than we like, while the other is deadly serious... but few
will
>ever see.
>Dunkelzahn (Urban Totem)
>After Dunkelzahn's death, there was more fruitcake literature going
through
>the mails than just after Thanksgiving. It seems the Big D captured the
>hearts and minds of many people, allowing them to believe, perhaps for
the
>first time, in the future of Homo sapiens. Some months after the
reading of
>the Will, one coherent voice emerged from the masses of Dunkelzahn
groupies.
>Calling himself, rather presumptiously, The Speaker, he claimed that his
>magical talent Awakened as a gift from the late Great Dragon. While
most
>magical theorist wrote him off as a fraud, Dr. Arnold Ledbetter invited
him
>onto his show (which did nothing for The Speaker's credibility) and many
>people heard and believed the words of The Speaker. Soon after, more
people
>appeared weilding magic given to them by Dunkelzahn, the People's
Dragon.

<Chuckle> interesting ... :)

>Characteristics: Dunkelzahn loves and believes in (meta)humanity. He
works to
>help heal the breaches between people and their world, and to uncover
the
>Truth where he can. A shaman of Dunkelzahn works to help (meta)humanity
work
>in harmony with his envioroment and each other, and to find the secrets
kept
>by those in high places.
>
>Favored Envioroments: Mountains, and anywhere man resides.
>
>Advantages: A shaman of Dunkelzahn gains +2 dice to Health and
Detection
>spells, as well as +2 dice to summon Mountain spirits and any one spirit
of
>Man

I'd give a bonus to Hearth and City Spirits instead of the above ...

>Disadvantages: In addition to the near complete inability to be taken
>seriously initially by most professionals, shamans of Dunkelzahn must
have an
>initial Charisma of 4, because Dunkelzahn was known to be such a great
>presence. Shamans of Dunkelzahn go out of their way to help people,
often
>donating some of their time teaching and healing the underpriveledged,
and
>sometimes working "at cost" for worthy causes.

I would also reccomend putting in something about a lack of Prejudice,
and an affection for tech (perhaps required a minimum copmuter skill of 1
or 2 but NOT 1/2 Magic loss from cyber ...)

Also... What? no penalty dice?

Note: another suggestion: Dunk was well liked amongst the spirits, so
pile on ettiquette restrictions (Ie, he has to play nice [relatively {no
grounding through spirits, for example}]) and then counterbalance this
with either a +1 to summon any spirit other than the above (a bit too
hefty a bonus so if you go this route, REALLY pile on the penalties) or
by using the druid rules for summoning, removing (not replacing) the
parts with references to druid circles (reccomended...)

>--------
>(Western) Dragon
>Characteristics: Dragon is both physically and magically powerful, and
>impressive presence and unconcerned with the goals of others, insofar as
they
>do not conflict or coincide with his own. Dragon is by nature
acquisitive,
>but can be either direct or subtle, as the situation requires.
>
>Advantages: Dragon gains +2 dice to Illusion and Manipulation spells,
as well
>as +2 dice to summon any one Spirit of the Sky and any two other Nature
>Spirits.

Hmmmm... I'm a bit uncomfortable about the "*any* two nature spirits" but
I don't know why ... :/

>Disadvantages: Dragon is a powerful creature, and therefore must put 4
points
>in all attributes (before alterations are made for race). Also, Dragon
reacts
>very poorly to setbacks, and must make a Willpower (4) test each time
his
>plans are thwarted, or fly into a rage for 3 rounds, less one for each
success
>scored.

I think he should be "forced" to spend extrodanate amounts of time
planning and making contigency plans for his contingency plans, etc ...
and only make the roll if he is completely thwarted ...

>--------
>
>Well, what do you think? Hit me, I can take it.
>
>Nexx
>"CCG = Crack Catching Gamers"

/me hits Nexx ... "Oh ... you meant if we didn't like your ideas ... oops
..."
:)

Actually looks pretty good to me :)

D.Ghost
(aka Pixel, Tantrum, and RuPixel)
"Let he who is without SIN cast the first stone"

_____________________________________________________________________
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Message no. 42
From: Nexx Many-Scars <Nexx3@***.COM>
Subject: Re: New Totems...
Date: Sat, 11 Jul 1998 22:02:30 EDT
In a message dated 11/07/98 03:47:18 Central Daylight Time, dghost@****.COM
writes:

> >Favored Envioroments: Mountains, and anywhere man resides.
> >
> >Advantages: A shaman of Dunkelzahn gains +2 dice to Health and
> Detection
> >spells, as well as +2 dice to summon Mountain spirits and any one spirit
> of
> >Man
>
> I'd give a bonus to Hearth and City Spirits instead of the above ...

Well, where do you think of Dunkelzahn living, when you think of him alive?
Most likely, his lair in the Rocky Mountains (plus mentions of his lair in the
Caucaus's <sp>)... and Dunkelzahn was the People's Dragon, meaning I think
people that don't live in areas that could technically be called Cities would
be just as likely to be drawn to him as others...

> >Disadvantages: In addition to the near complete inability to be taken
> >seriously initially by most professionals, shamans of Dunkelzahn must
> have an
> >initial Charisma of 4, because Dunkelzahn was known to be such a great
> >presence. Shamans of Dunkelzahn go out of their way to help people,
> often
> >donating some of their time teaching and healing the underpriveledged,
> and
> >sometimes working "at cost" for worthy causes.
>
> I would also reccomend putting in something about a lack of Prejudice,
> and an affection for tech (perhaps required a minimum copmuter skill of 1
> or 2 but NOT 1/2 Magic loss from cyber ...)

Good point about the prejudice and tech... and I'm not crazy enough to say
half-magic loss from cyber.

> Also... What? no penalty dice?

Truthfully, I couldn't think of anything appropriate...

> Note: another suggestion: Dunk was well liked amongst the spirits, so
> pile on ettiquette restrictions (Ie, he has to play nice [relatively {no
> grounding through spirits, for example}]) and then counterbalance this
> with either a +1 to summon any spirit other than the above (a bit too
> hefty a bonus so if you go this route, REALLY pile on the penalties) or
> by using the druid rules for summoning, removing (not replacing) the
> parts with references to druid circles (reccomended...)

I like that idea, but remember spirits aren't people... I don't see them as
conferring respect automatically because someone is associated with the Big
D... they'll likely earn it quickly, but I don't think that it would be
automatic.

> >--------
> >(Western) Dragon
> >Advantages: Dragon gains +2 dice to Illusion and Manipulation spells,
> as well
> >as +2 dice to summon any one Spirit of the Sky and any two other Nature
> >Spirits.
>
> Hmmmm... I'm a bit uncomfortable about the "*any* two nature spirits" but
> I don't know why ... :/

Remember, Dragons in SR practically symbolize POWER: raw, unadulterated
power... the kind of power that takes on Jumbo jets single handedly, buys
corporations without blinking, and becomes the first non-human President of
the United States... (an interesting note on the culture of SR: they eleceted
a dragon before they would elect either an Elf, Dwarf, or Troll [all of whom
were running])

> >Disadvantages: Dragon is a powerful creature, and therefore must put 4
> points
> >in all attributes (before alterations are made for race). Also, Dragon
> reacts
> >very poorly to setbacks, and must make a Willpower (4) test each time
> his
> >plans are thwarted, or fly into a rage for 3 rounds, less one for each
> success
> >scored.
>
> I think he should be "forced" to spend extrodanate amounts of time
> planning and making contigency plans for his contingency plans, etc ...
> and only make the roll if he is completely thwarted ...

The problem with forcing them to make plans for plans for plans is that
downplays the fact that dragons (or Dragon) is wily and cunning, as well as
subtle and intelligent.

As a note, notice how I included Stat minimums in both of those? I like that
idea, and I tihnk there should be more of it done... requiring Coyote shamans
to have a intelligence and quickness of 4, or a Cat shaman to have the
Charisma of 4... stats appropriate to the totem, but not unreasonable.

Nexx
Message no. 43
From: Nexx Many-Scars <Nexx3@***.COM>
Subject: Re: New Totems...
Date: Sat, 11 Jul 1998 22:05:08 EDT
In a message dated 11/07/98 01:10:14 Central Daylight Time, Ereskanti@***.COM
writes:

> Binder'll come walking up to the stone they've erected for Dunkelzahn, place
> a
> single white mountain rose on the stone in Arlington. He'll smile, and
> inform
> the spirits of the place ... "they've done you justice ol' wyrm. You would
> be
> proud..."
>
> And walk away in total, absolute honor.

::bows:: Thank you, K. (incidentally, the check is in the mail <g>)

Nexx
Message no. 44
From: Alfredo B Alves <dghost@****.COM>
Subject: Re: New Totems...
Date: Sat, 11 Jul 1998 23:27:59 -0500
On Sat, 11 Jul 1998 22:02:30 EDT Nexx Many-Scars <Nexx3@***.COM> writes:
>In a message dated 11/07/98 03:47:18 Central Daylight Time,
dghost@****.COM
>writes:
>> >Favored Envioroments: Mountains, and anywhere man resides.
>> >
>> >Advantages: A shaman of Dunkelzahn gains +2 dice to Health and
Detection
>> >spells, as well as +2 dice to summon Mountain spirits and any one
spirit of
>> >Man

>> I'd give a bonus to Hearth and City Spirits instead of the above ...

>Well, where do you think of Dunkelzahn living, when you think of him
alive?
>Most likely, his lair in the Rocky Mountains (plus mentions of his lair
in the
>Caucaus's <sp>)...

Aren't those hearths since someone(s) lives there? :)

>and Dunkelzahn was the People's Dragon, meaning I think
>people that don't live in areas that could technically be called Cities
would
>be just as likely to be drawn to him as others...

>> >Disadvantages: In addition to the near complete inability to be
taken
>> >seriously initially by most professionals, shamans of Dunkelzahn must
have
>> >an initial Charisma of 4, because Dunkelzahn was known to be such a
great
>> >presence. Shamans of Dunkelzahn go out of their way to help people,
often
>> >donating some of their time teaching and healing the
underpriveledged, and
>> >sometimes working "at cost" for worthy causes.

>> I would also reccomend putting in something about a lack of
Prejudice,
>> and an affection for tech (perhaps required a minimum copmuter skill
of 1
>> or 2 but NOT 1/2 Magic loss from cyber ...)

>Good point about the prejudice and tech... and I'm not crazy enough to
say
>half-magic loss from cyber.

<Grin> Good :)

>> Also... What? no penalty dice?

>Truthfully, I couldn't think of anything appropriate...

Truthfully, neither could I so I just bitched about it rather than
suggesting any ;)

>> Note: another suggestion: Dunk was well liked amongst the spirits, so
>> pile on ettiquette restrictions (Ie, he has to play nice [relatively
{no
>> grounding through spirits, for example}]) and then counterbalance this
>> with either a +1 to summon any spirit other than the above (a bit too
>> hefty a bonus so if you go this route, REALLY pile on the penalties)
or
>> by using the druid rules for summoning, removing (not replacing) the
>> parts with references to druid circles (reccomended...)

>I like that idea, but remember spirits aren't people...

Weren't you the one that suggested that spirits were actually magicians
on quests? But seriously, IMO, spirits are very much like people ...

>I don't see them as
>conferring respect automatically because someone is associated with the
Big
>D... they'll likely earn it quickly, but I don't think that it would be
>automatic.

"The friend of my friend ..." but seriously, what I meant was pile
restrictions onto the shamans about how the can and can't treat the
spirits (Like a code of honor ...) and as long as the shamans follows
these rules use the Druid summoning rules ...

>> >--------
>> >(Western) Dragon
>> >Advantages: Dragon gains +2 dice to Illusion and Manipulation
spells, as
>> >well as +2 dice to summon any one Spirit of the Sky and any two other

>> >Nature Spirits.

>> Hmmmm... I'm a bit uncomfortable about the "*any* two nature spirits"
but
>> I don't know why ... :/

>Remember, Dragons in SR practically symbolize POWER: raw, unadulterated
>power... the kind of power that takes on Jumbo jets single handedly,
buys
>corporations without blinking, and becomes the first non-human President
of
>the United States... (an interesting note on the culture of SR: they
eleceted
>a dragon before they would elect either an Elf, Dwarf, or Troll [all of
whom
>were running])

That's not it ... I'm thinking more that normally the Totem spirit
bonuses are based upon some aspect of the Totem wheras the "Any two
Nature Spirits" doesn't have this sense of keeping with a theme ...

>> >Disadvantages: Dragon is a powerful creature, and therefore must put
4
>> >points in all attributes (before alterations are made for race).
Also,
>> >Dragon reacts very poorly to setbacks, and must make a Willpower (4)
test
>> >each time his plans are thwarted, or fly into a rage for 3 rounds,
less one
>> >for each success scored.

>> I think he should be "forced" to spend extrodanate amounts of time
>> planning and making contigency plans for his contingency plans, etc
...
>> and only make the roll if he is completely thwarted ...

>The problem with forcing them to make plans for plans for plans is that
>downplays the fact that dragons (or Dragon) is wily and cunning, as well
as
>subtle and intelligent.

I disagree ... what is Not cunning and wily about planning thuroughly?
It can mean immense forsight ... For example, my RL gaming group spent 3
hours [real time] planning for a 1 minute [game time] run ... All that
planning completely blew my planned double cross out of the water ...

>As a note, notice how I included Stat minimums in both of those? I like
that
>idea, and I tihnk there should be more of it done... requiring Coyote
shamans
>to have a intelligence and quickness of 4, or a Cat shaman to have the
>Charisma of 4... stats appropriate to the totem, but not unreasonable.
>
>Nexx

I like to leave that as a RP decision ... remember not every shaman
starts out as the archetypical <insert Totem here>, they usually have to
grow into that role ... "Why did <Insert Totem here too> pick me? ...
I'm nothing like what a <you get the idea ...> shaman should be ..."

D.Ghost
(aka Pixel, Tantrum, and RuPixel)
"Let he who is without SIN cast the first stone"

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Message no. 45
From: Smilin' Ted <Tuvyah@***.COM>
Subject: Re: New Totems...
Date: Sun, 12 Jul 1998 03:30:59 EDT
In a message dated 7/11/98 6:03:55 PM, Nexx wrote:

>Well, where do you think of Dunkelzahn living, when you think of him alive?
>Most likely, his lair in the Rocky Mountains (plus mentions of his lair in
the
>Caucaus's <sp>)...

Myself, I always pictured him in the wood-panelled den, tail-up on the Lay-Z-
Boy. Trid remote clenched relentlessly in one forepaw....

Good ol' Dunk Six-Pack. The People's Dragon, indeed.

Ted
Message no. 46
From: Erik Jameson <erikj@****.COM>
Subject: Re: New Totems...
Date: Mon, 13 Jul 1998 14:03:02 -0400
At 02:08 AM 7/11/98 EDT, you wrote:

><snipped Dunkelzahn and Dragon as totem options>
>
>> Well, what do you think? Hit me, I can take it.
>
>Nexx, I almost wish you hadn't snuck me the little teaser of this. When I
>first opened this one, I thought "Oh boy, here we go, I wanna see Erik or MC
>explode over these"...but after I read them, thought for a few, I have
reached
>a decision. The following is <IC>

Keith, there you go again, making assumptions...

I actually think those totems are rather interesting. I'm not sure of the
need for a Western Dragon totem since a Wyrm totem already exists, and to
me that alleviates the need for the WD totem; I don't see that the Wyrm and
the Western Dragon are different enough to warrant the new totem
personally. But the Dunkelzahn totem makes a certain amount of sense, at
least as a self-made tradition. I think there needs to be a certain
additional element of penalties, but as it stands, it's not horrible.
Quite interesting actually. I could just see some First Church of the
Great Dragon priests or something or other being Dunkelzahn shamans. I
could see them also being quite loony, but hey.

Erik J.

URL almost here...
Message no. 47
From: Nexx Many-Scars <Nexx3@***.COM>
Subject: Re: New Totems...
Date: Mon, 13 Jul 1998 17:19:14 EDT
In a message dated 98-07-13 14:09:06 EDT, you write:

> I actually think those totems are rather interesting. I'm not sure of the
> need for a Western Dragon totem since a Wyrm totem already exists, and to
> me that alleviates the need for the WD totem; I don't see that the Wyrm and
> the Western Dragon are different enough to warrant the new totem
> personally.


Erik, but you missed something... the reason they warrant a different totem is
because they are different, at least in people's perceptions... and even the
perceptions of mundanes are going to affect how a spell slinger slings spells.

Nexx
Message no. 48
From: Erik Jameson <erikj@****.COM>
Subject: Re: New Totems...
Date: Mon, 13 Jul 1998 18:25:30 -0400
At 05:19 PM 7/13/98 EDT, you wrote:
>In a message dated 98-07-13 14:09:06 EDT, you write:
>
>> I actually think those totems are rather interesting. I'm not sure of the
>> need for a Western Dragon totem since a Wyrm totem already exists, and to
>> me that alleviates the need for the WD totem; I don't see that the Wyrm
and
>> the Western Dragon are different enough to warrant the new totem
>> personally.
>
>Erik, but you missed something... the reason they warrant a different
totem is
>because they are different, at least in people's perceptions... and even the
>perceptions of mundanes are going to affect how a spell slinger slings
spells.

No, I didn't miss it. Too ME there isn't enough of a difference to warrant
a different totem; to me, wyrm and western dragon are essentially
identical. But since YOU obviously see that there is a difference, well
then, you can create that totem, as you have.

I'm not certain that this would be a "natural" totem and would be more
inclined to think of it as a self-made tradition though. But it is an
Awakened world in Shadowrun 205X and stranger things *have* happened, so...

Erik J.


http://www.fortunecity.com/rivendell/dungeon/480/index.html
The Reality Check for a Fictional World

Further Reading

If you enjoyed reading about New Totems, you may also be interested in:

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