I love what's going on in Shadow Cities as far as game play, community, etc., but I think there's more that can be done on world-building, at least that I've found so far.
I think one thing to start with would be giving value to the five purchasable sigils, beyond mere decoration. I've seen several posts suggesting 'perk' effects that each sigil could give, but I think that value could also be gained by tagging on some back-story to the factions, to further represent your personality.

Here are some suggestions to start with, take what you will!
If you like this, I already have ideas on how to elaborate with things like faction leaders, philosophies, etc.

~~~~~


There are currently five major factions to which a mage may dedicate themselves. To do this, an "unsworn mage" is either scouted by , or finds and approaches an emissary of the faction, and must show their loyalty by sacrificing a great many bottles of collected magical essence to the cause.


- Order of the Hooded One: These mysterious mages have interacted with what they reverently call "the Walker in the Void" through extended exposure to the nightmare vistas of the Drioma spirits. They exalt in the whispers of their master, and its seductive call to join with it and cleanse the world with its dark purity. Although these mages are typically very powerful, their cause and secrecy give other factions pause in trusting them, when things become tense.
They do not betray their word, having been well schooled on the importance of a vow by the Order. "I swear it by the tenebrous pathway" is a vow that will never be broken lest the mage be destroyed by his own Order, and that fact alone allows them to continue to have dealings with the other factions. They are known also for their disquieting (if well-intended) blessing, "May the darkness watch you."


-Cult of the Crimson Skull: Every so often, the violent and otherwise anarchistic Tiermes spirits will take enough interest in a like-minded mage to spin tales of power and domination to them. The Cult was formed by the first mages tempted in such a way, and teach their acolytes in the spells and rites of wild magic and 'free channeling'. Seen as irresponsible, but universally feared and respected, the Cult can never be controlled, only unleashed in a given direction - most often destroying enemy, ally, and surrounding landscape. Power is the endgame, annihilation the last word. As they would say "Those who say violence never solved anything need to go read about Carthage."


-Mages of the Elemental Dragon: Self-described knights of the second plane, the Dragons are a popular choice for a young mage looking to move up in the world. They are tough, straightforward, sometimes abrasive and often heavy-handed. They prize honor highly, and are generally the first to send soldiers to an area of disturbance in defense of the sleepers.
The Dragons draw their name from the mythical four dragons of the elements, and invoke them often in speech. Other mages claim that this faction worships the elemental dragons behind closed doors, and this topic has only been avoided by faction members, never denied.


-Army of the Swan Phantom: Named for their combination of subterfuge and charisma, the Army works as intelligence for the magical community. They are spies, diplomats, tale-spinners, scouts, and information brokers. They seem to have their hands in all the details, and are usually very forthcoming, for a price. They often work with the Dragons in battle, providing tactical analysis, logistical beacon support, and healing so that the Dragons can concentrate on fighting. They are on good terms with every faction except for the Cult, who do not claim to need intel to do what they do.


-Light of the North: These mages see themselves as an elite order among the ascended. Often arrogant and overreaching, 'the Light' backs up their boasts with substantial power, and claim a hierarchy of some of the world's most accomplished masters and legendary magical warriors. In fact, the War Chant of Light, seen as by far the most effective attack spell in spirit combat, was developed by this faction.
It is impossible for a mage to get into the Light unless they are scouted, and even then the Light asks for double the normal loyalty tribute. Those chosen never seem to mind, and gratefully give away a fortune in mana to be granted membership. They will swoop into the scene of a conflict, offer support, and swoop out again as if they belonged there.
The Light will, unless pressed, refuse to work with the Order. The Light has not been forthcoming with its reasons, but some detractors claim that they are attempting to bury their hand in the creation of the Walker in the Void, as well as many other "jealous allegations."

I've got more, just tell me what you think!

Edited by Cinshadis (Oct. 14, 2011 20:25:04)

Love, love, love, love this!!! Yo Chad, give it a read, will ya?

Cin ~ Amazingly well-written, well thought out, artistic, and downright cool. You win, sir. You win.

A long over due, well-crafted story. I like! I can't wait for the rest of the details to come out


And I agree with Neb, Chad - let's give this a look and some consideration!

Very well written. This "arrogant and overreaching" green approves.

@all - Thanks! I really appreciate the encouragement! I love world-building.

@SaintMichael - It seems strange to write more to something that's not canon in a suggestion thread. I'll post another one, but I hope I'm not overstepping the boundaries of the thread. ^^;
@Veldurn - No offense, of course! I did said 'often' not 'always', and I'm sure you're one of the exceptions!

/agree
Hopefully GA can develop Sigils/Factions along these lines.

I've been working on more all this time, and I've gotten the first four expanded upon.
I know your guys at GA have got all of this well in hand, and I'm not trying to step on toes, but I'd still like to post it, and LotN too, when it's done.
((Edit: this has been done now, it's on the next page.))

Thanks for giving it a look, and I'm glad GA will be coming out with an official version soon!

Edited by Cinshadis (Oct. 15, 2011 00:10:47)