Re: Neidar Clan
Posted: 24 Oct 2014 07:37
When I coded the Neidar, I did so because there was a real gap in Genesis occupational guilds that suited the traditional/stereotype dwarf play style. The closest being the gladiators, however that didn't satisfy me as providing enough options, a complimentary combat system for that races strengths, or support for a player who wanted to embrace their race and a dwarvish heritage.
So the Neidar were coded with this in mind, with all the stereotypes that go along with it. The clan are, on a whole, good. They have strong dwarvish morals and have strict laws and traditions. They value loyalty to family and friends. Being good however doesn't mean they are angels. Dwarf is synonymous with stubborn. Physically as hard as a rock but incredibly thin-skinned to insult. And they hold their grog as well as they hold a grudge.
And the distinction of good / evil doesn't stack up that simply in the world of Krynn. Yes, Neidar clansmen have a love for the slaying of the goblinoid races to the point of it being a national sport. However they have almost as strong blood feuds with other 'good races'. Most obvious is that with the mountain dwarves. Much dwarven blood has been spilled on dwarven-forged axes and hammers. There are strong hostilities with the elves spanning back to the cataclysm. And the Council of Whitestone shows just how willing they are to pull out their weapons against the knights and elves when they think it is in the best interest of the clan.
So the Neidar are coded with that in mind. They aren't punished for mixing it up on occasion... however making a habit of it isn't promoted, and ultimately isn't accepted by the broader hill dwarf brotherhood. Hence the chop penalty. And yes, there are evil hill dwarves in Dragonlance lore, however more often than not that are exiles... such as Shale.
If a dwarf ultimately wants to embrace his darker nature, he is more than welcome to... however not within the clan without penalty. AA and the gladiators can offer support for those dark dwarves.
Arman Kharas - Patriarch of the Neidar Clan
PS Krynn and Ansalon theme is based around the period of the War of the Lance. So the first three Chronicles. Inspiration is also drawn from the Tales. You wont (shouldn't) see themes outside of that period (i.e. no Knights of Takhisis)
So the Neidar were coded with this in mind, with all the stereotypes that go along with it. The clan are, on a whole, good. They have strong dwarvish morals and have strict laws and traditions. They value loyalty to family and friends. Being good however doesn't mean they are angels. Dwarf is synonymous with stubborn. Physically as hard as a rock but incredibly thin-skinned to insult. And they hold their grog as well as they hold a grudge.
And the distinction of good / evil doesn't stack up that simply in the world of Krynn. Yes, Neidar clansmen have a love for the slaying of the goblinoid races to the point of it being a national sport. However they have almost as strong blood feuds with other 'good races'. Most obvious is that with the mountain dwarves. Much dwarven blood has been spilled on dwarven-forged axes and hammers. There are strong hostilities with the elves spanning back to the cataclysm. And the Council of Whitestone shows just how willing they are to pull out their weapons against the knights and elves when they think it is in the best interest of the clan.
So the Neidar are coded with that in mind. They aren't punished for mixing it up on occasion... however making a habit of it isn't promoted, and ultimately isn't accepted by the broader hill dwarf brotherhood. Hence the chop penalty. And yes, there are evil hill dwarves in Dragonlance lore, however more often than not that are exiles... such as Shale.
If a dwarf ultimately wants to embrace his darker nature, he is more than welcome to... however not within the clan without penalty. AA and the gladiators can offer support for those dark dwarves.
Arman Kharas - Patriarch of the Neidar Clan
PS Krynn and Ansalon theme is based around the period of the War of the Lance. So the first three Chronicles. Inspiration is also drawn from the Tales. You wont (shouldn't) see themes outside of that period (i.e. no Knights of Takhisis)