"The only game. The game of thrones." ~Petyr Baelish, 'A Storm of Swords' The aristocracy of Westeros exist in a world where a polite word can accomplish more than a thousand swords. They are subject to traditions that define the reality of their lives, play an invisible game with unwritten rules that are nonetheless just as real as a dagger in the back. This game was played long before they were born, is played all their lives, and will be played long after they are dead. The human appetite for power, comfort and prestige fuel ambitions of the players, who strive to elevate themselves and their family among all the others at court striving to do the same. These politics are ultimately about the relationships between people. The basis of the feudal structure - that between lord and vassal - underpin everything else. Lords negotiate alliances with other lords to secure the survival of their house for another generation. They curry favor with their overlords, seeking appointments, honors and titles over their neighbors. They engage in military disputes over territory, honor and broken promises. They train their sons and daughters to do the same on their behalf, preparing the next generation for the game. Some nobles attempt to not play the game. Some are content in what they have, or occupied with other pursuits. Others find the whole thing a farce, or leave the game to their more capable relatives. These nobles always find themselves drawn into the game anyway. By their very distinction as families who hold land in the name of the king, they are themselves part of the political equation. They have incomes, resources and soldiers that might tip the balance in any one of the many conflicts that periodically arise between the lords of Westeros. And if they ever wish to keep what they have or grasp for even more, they will have to play the game - and they will have to win. ][ A SYSTEM OF ICE AND FIRE ][ Valar Morghulis uses a custom dice system based on the Storyteller system as originally created by White Wolf games, with some changes and provisos as will be detailed. These rules are used to track the development of characters as they grow stronger through an experience point system as well as adjudicate combat and other dramatic scenes. The system is easy to learn, and the finer points are detailed in our game room to give an introduction to first-timers. Examples of play and dice rolling will be included. Dice ensure that everything is fair and impartial for all the players involved in a scene. ][ A STRUGGLING NOBLE HOUSE ][ The story of Valar Morghulis surrounds the impoverished noble House Byrch in the Crownlands, Lords of Brindlewood, during the early reign of Aerys II Targaryen. Among the most minor of noble houses, House Byrch nonetheless has produced the most promising generation of their family that will have to fight to survive in the game of thrones and ascend among their peers. Diplomacy, trade and warfare are all arenas in which the players will be challenged. Currently the nobility of House Byrch is full, but many smallfolk with great talents seek out the patronage of the aristocracy. Under the banner of House Byrch a great fortune could be made for a sellsword, a hedge knight, a displaced foreigner, an artisan, an entertainer, or even a common thief or harlot. Players who join the game will all be loyal to House Byrch and seek to increase their fortunes, as a rising tide raises all ships and perhaps could even install these smallfolk themselves into the nobility. ][ A REALISTIC IMMERSIVE EXPERIENCE ][ With our Combat, Intrigue and Destiny systems, you can make the character you dream of, and be someone significant within the Seven Kingdoms. Your character will change story events and drive the plot in a way that spotlights them as memorably as any popular character from the book series as they seek to make their fortune. This is where you can immerse yourself into the World of Ice & Fire in a way that will be memorable and feel authentic. Game sessions will be played over Discord voice and hosted on Roll20. We will run for four hours Saturday mornings from 10 AM CST to 2 PM CST with a 10 minute break in between. This game is free of charge and invites all mature, experienced, immersive role-players to come and join us. Please note Valar Morghulis is a full-contact adult game. That means all applicants must be at least 18 years of age, and no 'lines and veils' or requests of censorship will be honored during the course of play. If things go a certain way, horrible things can happen to your character. On the bright side the Destiny System, as part of the game, does allow players some in-game agency to prevent the worst twists of fate. Those interested in a truly satisfying and unique role-playing experience are invited to join us. Psst! Apply Here!