Ian A. Thomson

Hi Folks

I've had a few inquiries recently from people interested in the specific details of the Pavis Grand Plan I am presenting in the P&BRC:DC campaign.

However, I figure that I will have one chance, and one chance only, to run a build-up to that becoming known, so I'm going to reveal the Plan in pieces through the books in the same way as Adventurers will discover it in gameplay

Hints have been in Vols. 1-3 this time, but Vol. 04 was the first to include some of the core Plan elements.

(The biggest gap in the original series was the Blind King's Hill material that was fundamental, and never written up previously since Greg asked me to keep some of the more esoteric elements secret. This will ideally fit into Vol. 06, but there's so much old material that it might be in Vol. 07 - which will hopefully be the Grand Finale, but again that depends on space as I want to try to keep the books to about 250 pages each.)

Anyway, one day (likely later this year), all the books will be out, and anyone who wants to know will know. Until then I'll stay with the slow reveal

Vol. 05 is the final modern day background book - covering Prax and the River of Cradles. The idea is to include - hopefully there will be space - an Old Pavis chapter too, which will have a few more foundational hints and clues. But it won't be until Vol. 06 that finally the Adventurers begin to learn some really clear knowledge

[The Rough Guide to Pavis City is also still to be re-released in an expanded version, and that will be the actual final background book]

Greg and I discussed options and themes, and one major stream of those I wrote (and we played out) in my second campaign. IE: some major key parts of the Grand Plan are solid and won't change.

However, now I have a unique chance to revise and expand all the plan details, history etc. This already means that some parts that were only mentioned in passing in the campaign as we played it, can now become more front and center. Some of those I wanted to reveal more about at the time in the first series, and am already working on doing so this time round. That's quite exciting in fact, as several pieces I really really wanted to put in the fanzines, but agreed not to due to discussing an official release.

There are also other elements I am still extrapolating from my old notes and memories, and as I begin writing the Blind King's Hill pieces I am finally starting to put it all together. So as I start to organise all those notes in coherent form, it seemed that now could be the perfect moment also to consult the ideas, expectations and understandings of interested experienced Gloranthaphiles. Basically now seems a good time to write this all up fully. Now that we start to enter deeper territory in the new series, it will help with scattering clues and hints in all of the books from Vol. 05 on to have the Grand Plan version in this Campaign as clarified as possible sooner rather than later.

So I'm wondering? What are your suspicions about what the Grand Plan is? What are you hoping/expecting to read as it is revealed in the books? What could it include? What were its goals in the past, and how (if at all) have they changed in modern times? (This was one thing Greg and I discussed - that certain elements of the original plan may no longer be relevant or feasible, and that the Pavis Priests would focus on revitalizing what would be the most valuable elements in current times.)

If nobody contributes at all here, fear not. I have a tonne of notes and ideas from the old discussions and my campaign notes, and the Grand Plan is well fleshed out. However, I am also more than delighted to entertain new (or expanded) ideas and perspectives from the fountain of fan wisdom. I just ask that anyone who comments riffs those off a decent knowledge of canon and speculative Pavis ideas already in existence. (Rather than basing ideas just on a more general question about what some random ancient city old plan might have been.)

I am already including one major idea that did not stem from Greg or I, but from someone else's speculation over 20 years ago. (Possibly Simon Phipp, but I really can't remember. Once it's out, if Simon wants to throw me a 'Yes, that was my idea', I am happy to credit it in the first revision of whatever book it appears in.) An amazing idea that I am struggling to write in without it giving too much away. But it's just too good not to. (A clue to this one actually might be in Vol. 05.)

Anyway, I'm interested in any and all informed speculations on the topic. :)

Everyone's larger Pavis Campaigns may well have very different Grand Plans in them of course, and my goal is NOT to match everyone's expectations (some of which are likely contradictory so that would be impossible). My goal is simply to create the most interesting version that I can for this particular campaign, while staying close to the themes and objectives I discussed with Greg back in the day.

I likely won't respond to specific ideas in great detail, as my enthusiastic interest in any elements could give away too much. But I will read them ALL, and I may take some ideas into secret discussion of course, but in the meantime I am intrigued to see what others might imagine.

Cheers

9 hours ago, Akhôrahil said:

The book itself, you mean? I have it (the whole Footsteps of Fools Campaign is so great!).

Thanks. I have it now

Exasperating Cadaver came out last year and is one of my best pieces. About to release my final DERPG product, which is the best of the rest: On the High Road to Kaiin. Needed a few of the details from ATTA

RATINGS & CORRECTIONS

Thanks for all the great feedback on Vol. 04 :)

Those of you who said you think it is brilliant and have a moment, giving it a top star rating on Drivethru would be much appreciated. It makes a big difference when other people look at the book and are considering whether to buy

Also, there will be another update at some point in the next few weeks, so don't by shy in letting me know about any errors or other clunks you have spotted

That would be much appreciated too, as I am flat out now with Vols 4A (the special edition) and 5, plus as the main author, my eye is not the best for spotting mistakes

RATINGS & CORRECTIONS

Thanks for all the great feedback on Vol. 04 :)

Those of you who said you think it is brilliant and have a moment, giving it a top star rating on Drivethru would be much appreciated. It makes a big difference when other people look at the book and are considering whether to buy

Also, there will be another update at some point in the next few weeks, so don't by shy in letting me know about any errors or other clunks you have spotted

That would be much appreciated too, as I am flat out now with Vols 4A (the special edition) and 5, plus as the main author, my eye is not the best for spotting mistakes

SEWERS ETC (@ Erol of Backford)

There were some New Pavis Tunnels in the original series (Vol. 04). These will return - ideally in Vol. 06, but that depends on how much space is available. I want to try and limit all books to about 250 pages, so they may be Vol. 07. This piece will be expanded to as to the whats and whys of these tunnels, so it won't be the same as in the original series

There was a map of the Flintnail Tunnels in Vol. 01 of the original series. This will largely stay the same, except for the details being expanded in the new series. Same as above - ideally Vol. 06

More maps under D Playground will also appear in Vol 06 or 07

Gimpys Secret Tunnel(s) [Note the plural] are already revised, expanded and fully explained in Vol. 01, though they weren't in the early editions, but are in the current pdf and the POD. With awesome maps by Roy Duffy

Anyone here into DERPG and have a copy of my And Thence to Almery campaign outline?

Its pretty basic, but has some good ideas in, and I want to reuse one of them, but don't have a copy anymore

EDIT: All sorted now :)

Coming soon in Vol. 06 :)

On 1/1/2024 at 6:55 AM, Nozbat said:

it is only now when I see the whole document that I recognise the entirety and magnitude of the project. It's massive.. just like trying to traverse the Rubble.. it's a bit bigger than you thought and just as dangerous.

Oh yes indeed :)

Thanks guys for your generous words

I'm glad others are enjoying the material as much as I enjoyed writing it originally and now

Its also great that its not just me and my two groups of Players who are able to follow the unfolding path of the Grand Plan :)

5 hours ago, Geoff R Evil said:

my only criticism is that the scenarios could be a bit more politically and theologically sophisticated. But I am really nit picking, and I can and do add my own depth in this regard because there is so much richness in this material.

Leans a bit more into the politics in Vol. 04 at at last and this trend will continue.

Vol. 04 of the Pavis & Big Rubble Companion (Director's Cut) is finally out, only a month later than hoped :)

Huge thanks to everyone involved!!

I know I keep saying it, but it remains true - without the help of all you collaborators this series would have failed some time back

The credit to Ian A. Thomson & friends should be & Champions!!

https://preview.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/465145/old-pavis-ii-the-good-the-bad-the-rowdy-runequest

This book is titled Old Pavis (II) because major sections cover Old City landmarks, inhabitants & adventures that we would have included in Vol. 02 if there had been room.

Part One: Forts & Temples of the Big Rubble
All remaining civilized Old City locations where Adventurers can buy supplies or potentially take refuge. Including full maps with indexes and details on notable inhabitants for Zebra Fort, Mani’s Fort, the Yelorna Temple & the Old Mint.
 
Part Two: Friends & Allies of Old Pavis
Different groups that Adventurers may meet, including full details on the Dylfing Clan of Mani’s Fort, the Aldryami of the Big Rubble, and the Urban Orlanthi. Plus full RQG Stats on such personalities as Garrath Sharpsword, Enostar ‘Bad-Dream’, Bendrath the Priest, & Wolfhead the Bandit.
 
Part Three: Criminals & Enemies of Pavis
Expanded details on the Black Fang, Lunar Intelligence Agents, Sarken’s Gang at the Old Mint, and the most notable local Lunar Collaborators. (Full RQG Stats for various individuals, including Gim-gim the Grim, Jo-Tarran Longsword, Count Sor-Eel & Faltikus the Good.)
 
Part Four: Rebels & Independents
New pieces on The Rowdy Gang & Griselda developed in collaboration with Oliver Dickinson, Michael O’Brien’s wonderful ‘Beggars of Pavis’ article revisited, and the even a guest appearance from the Old Pavic heroband - the fabulous Grey Company. Plus more!
 
Part Five: For a Fistful of Lunars
Page after page of practical details for running scenarios in the Big Rubble as the Adventurers seek to make a living. Including details on their’ first steps into the mysterious levels of loyalty within the Cult of Pavis, and a brand-new species of dangerous Rubble-dwellers!
 
Part Five: Once Upon a Time in Pavis
A substantial original investigative New Pavis mystery (‘The Curse of the Copper Condor’); the Lunar plans announcement of the Wedding of Pavis to the Red Goddess; a major scenario exploring Kakstan’s Art Museum [significantly revised & expanded from the original series]; and the opportunity to ‘evict’ Sarken’s Bandit Gang from the Old Pavis Royal Mint!

** Bonus Soundtrack Clip here by putting this link together: you ... tube.com/watch?v=J9EZGHcu3E8

Yay, it's out there!! :)

https://preview.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/465145/old-pavis-ii-the-good-the-bad-the-rowdy-runequest

The fourth volume in a hugely expanded re-release of the original Companion series.
This is an 'old school' campaign, updated to the new rules system (RQG) yet in the classic style of RQ2/3 gameplay. Independent mercenaries seeking adventure and glory, who slowly but surely become more connected with the Cult of Pavis, until they end up as Champions of the Old City!
 
This book is titled Old Pavis (II) because major sections cover Old City landmarks, inhabitants & adventures that we would have included in Vol. 02 if there had been room.

Part One: Forts & Temples of the Big Rubble
All remaining civilized Old City locations where Adventurers can buy supplies or potentially take refuge. Including full maps with indexes and details on notable inhabitants for Zebra Fort, Mani’s Fort, the Yelorna Temple & the Old Mint.
 
Part Two: Friends & Allies of Old Pavis
Different groups that Adventurers may meet, including full details on the Dylfing Clan of Mani’s Fort, the Aldryami of the Big Rubble, and the Urban Orlanthi. Plus full RQG Stats on such personalities as Garrath Sharpsword, Enostar ‘Bad-Dream’, Bendrath the Priest, & Wolfhead the Bandit.
 
Part Three: Criminals & Enemies of Pavis
Expanded details on the Black Fang, Lunar Intelligence Agents, Sarken’s Gang at the Old Mint, and the most notable local Lunar Collaborators. (Full RQG Stats for various individuals, including Gim-gim the Grim, Jo-Tarran Longsword, Count Sor-Eel & Faltikus the Good.
 
Part Four: Rebels & Independents
New pieces on The Rowdy Gang & Griselda developed in collaboration with Oliver Dickinson, Michael O’Brien’s wonderful ‘Beggars of Pavis’ article revisited, and the even a guest appearance from the Old Pavic heroband - the fabulous Grey Company. Plus more!
 
Part Five: For a Fistful of Lunars
Page after page of practical details for running scenarios in the Big Rubble as the Adventurers seek to make a living. Including details on their’ first steps into the mysterious levels of loyalty within the Cult of Pavis, and a brand-new species of dangerous Rubble-dwellers!
 
Part Five: Once Upon a Time in Pavis
A substantial original investigative New Pavis mystery (‘The Curse of the Copper Condor’); the Lunar plans announcement of the Wedding of Pavis to the Red Goddess; a major scenario exploring Kakstan’s Art Museum [significantly revised & expanded from the original series]; and the opportunity to ‘evict’ Sarken’s Bandit Gang from the Old Pavis Royal Mint!

Drum roll!!!

Completed full PDF of Vol. 04 sent to Fabian, along with all of the other extra bits and pieces and information needed for getting it online.

It will definitely have at least one update, as every book so far had at least some errors in it that were spotted later, or just things that could be clarified or enhanced to make them better.

However, it has been thoroughly checked, so I am hopeful there's not many things that will need altering or correcting

Certainly very happy to get it out after all this time!! About a month later than I was aiming for. (And again, none of this would have been possible without all the help!!)

Old Pavis II: The Good, the Bad & the Rowdy

Fabian is hopefully enjoying a well-earned winter holiday, so we will see when it appears in the Jonstown Compendium on DTRPG once he is back in action

Time for a week off now for me as well

EDIT: Heard from Fabian straight away; he can get to it in the next day or so :)

Which means it looks like Vol. 04 will just make 2023. Yay!

Heading out now but back later this evening

In the knowledge that there are only 1-2hrs work left to do to finish Vol. 04

The reviewers still need to proof the last few pieces, but the threshold of all the content being done probably by later this evening (and tomorrow morning at latest) is a good place to have reached at last!

45 minutes ago, Shiningbrow said:

(ps. you forgot to mention the drop bears!!! And crocs....)

Crocs was in my message at some point; must have got lost in an edit. Saw lots of them in the NT a year ago. Amazing creatures. Thought about adding dropbears in, but despite my sister's fear of them (which I instilled in her LOL) they are generally not a problem.

45 minutes ago, Shiningbrow said:

Glad to hear you're ok! And you remembered your swimming lessons! (you were swimming between the flags, weren't you???)

No flags and deceptively calm looking. There was a rescue boat just sitting there, but nobody in it. Tea break maybe. It was a sudden thing. One moment I'm happily swimming in a fun bit of current with my friend doing the same a little way off, and then it was like someone hit the Turbo button on an electric device, and I'm headed out to sea at what felt like 30mph, and she's looking and going 'Oh Sh*t!" (When I got back closer she swam in to help me back out.)

Also yeh, if that little critter is Australian its out for blood!

That reminds me, there are two brand new enemy species in Vol. 04. Well, one brand new (inspired by something Nick Brooke mentioned about a game he was playing in), and one that is a new variation on a known species.

Woah. There was nearly no Vol. 04 or any others after that

In Australia we have poisonous spiders, box jellyfish that can stop your heart, a whole bunch of venomous snakes, hungry crocodiles, and sharks

There's also the 'rip tide' and (as I discovered first hand yesterday as nearly the last thing I ever discovered) something called 'rip currents' [https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Rip_current]

I can't swim well at all, but I drew it from somewhere, and fortunately remembered the advice to swim across rather than against

It was a narrow narrow thing though

Everything seems bright and wonderful today, I can tell you!

Finally got the new big scenario finished a couple of days ago, and most of a new scenario outline finished today. That leaves one big scenario which only needs layout and editing, and two smaller pieces that need finishing but should be pretty easy

Thanks again for the collaborators helping out. Vol. 04 likely ready to go online in the middle of next week

Don't know why I'm only seeing this awesome ad now, but I did hear about PAX and wasn't able to return down south anyway at that time

It was 18 months after I moved out of Melbourne! (After being there many many years and at the venue a bunch of times... now 1,500km away.)

Would have been a great opportunity to increase my F2F encounters with some of the Gloranthan figures beyond the current total of 3 though!!

Something Gloranthan in Sydney maybe? :)

That's my go-to big city now

On 11/23/2023 at 5:48 PM, g33k said:

I would *entirely* dissociate the Gloranthan list of events from the Bible.
Because the potential to give offense is just huge... and frankly, pointless.
So easy to not.

Use the classic ideas as inspiration, reorder and reinvent them. Make there be only seven. Suddenly all ass is covered :)

Love the newtlings idea. They don't have to be small. Just regular newtlings, suddenly hundreds of them. Hungry, helpless, friendly, looking for work... (One really big newtling: "Gizza Job, Go on! Gizza Job!")

Water isn't blood, it's oil, or its full of gorp, or slime, or stagnant...

12 hours ago, mfbrandi said:

The GIMP is your friend. I am sure you can manage to open the JPG in GIMP and then export the file as a PNG. The bit you have to be careful with is the background colour to alpha (transparency). Here is a quick summary of two ways to do it. Note that they give different results (as should be clear below), but you can use the simpler one if the image is going onto a white background. Use the ‘fuzzy select’ method if the image is being placed over a texture or colour and you don’t want any show-through. The graphic should be clear, but if you have any questions, fire away. Have fun!

Yes, this did the job wonderfully. Thanks so much

Seemed to be even less steps than you indicated. (Though those steps were crucial to be knowing what to do!)

Ahah, I see. Two sets of instructions. One for simpler images and one for more complex. Both work! :)

6 hours ago, Brian Duguid said:

If it's new art, your artists should be doing it for you. If it's old art, it's dead easy to make a pure white background transparent in Affinity Photo (which many JC creators use), and a bit more work if the background is not clean. I can help with that, if it's not too many images.

Yes, most artists have that capacity, but not all. (Including me who is sometimes the artist! I don't have it) :)

Plus yes, some old images

Affinity Photo looks good, but going to try paint. net & Gimp first as are free

Transparent PNGs?

Hi Folks

For the first year of creating the P&BRC:DC volumes I was using a free online service to change jpgs into transparent pngs (turning all the white colour areas into transparency, so that images blend into the page)

Then they started charging, so after a bit of searching I found another service that was just as good. A few weeks ago they also started charging

Anyone out there have access to software that quickly and easily converts jpgs to transparent pngs?

I'd love to welcome you onto the team if I could send you a few images every now and then, and happy to sign you up for a free pdf copy of any volume in which you can do this service for a bunch of images 

Cheers

9 minutes ago, svensson said:

@Ian A. Thomson So, what's the title and expected finish date of the next installment? I own all three so far and have been VERY entertained by them. I really enjoy seeing some of those old RQ2 'gaming from the hip' sensibilities updated.

Old Pavis II: The Good, the Bad & the Rowdy

Scroll up a few messages to see an image! :)

Only a few more days work to go to complete it, but I do mean a few full days, so it could still be 2-3 weeks to make the time

Always great to hear from someone who is enjoying the material

Helps to boost the motivation to slog on! :)

Black Friday sale on the Vol. 03 pdf - and the combo pdf & POD.

Just a few $ off, but if anyone was considering buying either, there's a very time-limited window open right now

https://preview.drivethrurpg.com/en/product/448641/pavis-county-beyond-secrets-of-the-borderlands-runequest