BLOOD DRIVE:
One of the greatest part of the DR community is it's willingness to give back to the world. One of the ways we do that is through charity drives.
This month many of the chapters are participating in a blood drive, Wisconsin included! Take a picture of yourself giving blood or helping a friend give blood if you can't yourself, and send it to DRNJCoord@gmail.com for some yummie AP!
50 AP for blood and 100 AP for Platelets.
So come on Wisconsin, let's see you bleed!
Ever had an itch to send something to someone in game? Did you know that you can, in fact, do just that? Each chapter has its own rules on how to accomplish it, and below relates to Steel Horse Crossing.
First, a point of order: Dystopia Rising was fashioned as a game that is played on site and in the flesh. It is meant to have no downtime, and things that happen should happen at game. It's one of the primary tenets of our game world. So how does mail work?
We ask that you send all mail coming into Steel Horse to the following PO Box. Anything being sent here will be properly delivered to their recipient at the next game, and be accomplished via In-Game means.
6508 S. 27th St.
Suite 9 #282
Oak Creek, WI 53154
Why is this important? The answer is twofold. First, it ensures we're playing by the intentions of the game - all gameplay happens at game, not "off camera". The second, and perhaps even more important, is that we have ways and means for our game to deliver the mail. It involves players, and their characters, facilitating an in game purpose. You are helping not only yourself, but others around you, play the game and get into more roleplay. As directors, we appreciate anyone offering the players in SHC an opportunity for more roleplay - after all, that's why we play the game, right?
Other branches may follow other policies, and assuredly have different delivery addresses. For outgoing mail, please check with individual chapters.
(http://www.dystopiarisinglarp.com/mailing-policies/)
Thanks in advance for your help!
By Leave of the Ironworks
With all laws of the Ironworks intact, and with no deviation from those laws set forward by the Department of the Interior, Steel Horse Crossing does further enact these laws below per the ability granted by such aforementioned body. It is with sincerity that these laws are codified within this territory, covering all grounds within and around the settlement, under purview of the elders of the town, the Consul, and the greater governing body of the Ironworks. Knowledge of these laws is expected, and remains the duty of all citizens, visitors and property to follow with diligence.
Additional Article 1: Whereas little good can come from the use of poison, save monitored and approved uses in cases that warrant such, no poison or poisonous compound is permitted within the boundaries of Steel Horse Crossing. Having such is akin to the intent of murder without documented authorization by the Ironworks, or officials of Steel Horse Crossing in lieu of the broader governing body.
a. All officials will be ratified by the elders, and no other authority is granted beyond these.
Additional Article 2: For the further clarification of the Ironworks laws, any inclination towards abolitionism is immediately considered conspiracy of theft, and carries with it the same punishment as theft. Past the first infraction, the violation becomes an intent to sedition, and instead carries with it the punishment therein.
Additional Article 3: Due to the demanding work quotas of the Ironworks, all mind altering drugs are explicitly forbidden to consume within the boundaries of town and the greater surrounding area.
a. An exception is made on the day of High Saturday, which is respected by the settlement per religious implication. The ban on mind altering drugs is lifted on this day of relaxation, and may be further extended on those holidays in which the elders deem appropriate.
b. Anyone having or transporting such material must have a license for such articles on all days save the above exceptions. Failure to provide such a license defies the will of the Ironworks.
Additional Article 4: Any addictive substances are hereby banned in that the mind must be clear for the body to perform duties for the Ironworks. There is no exception to the ban on addictive substances, and the penalty is likened to sedition for the crime of removing the free will of mind to addiction.
Additional Article 5: No Lascarian is allowed to settle within the boundaries of town for any purpose, as their presence remains a threat to both the town and the Ironworks as a whole. Lest we not forget the families that were lost to their grave crimes. They are granted leave for three days’ time per return.
Additional Article 6: As the assets of the Ironworks are sacrosanct, and all are beholden to the laws enacted by the greater body. Steel Horse Crossing defines the following areas as assets of the Ironworks:
a. The Iron Naval Command Center (North of the Steel Horse Crossing town entry road)
b. The Boneyard (West of the Lake and beyond)
c. All standing structures, both covered and open
d. AA6.c is exempt from Trespassing, as all citizens, visitors and property are welcome that can maintain a civil attitude for the assets therein.
By Our Hand,
The Elder Council, Steel Horse Crossin
March's Pre-Registration is now open!
March's Meal Plan is sure to please!
Friday Dinner: Potato Soup, sammiches, cookies
Saturday Breakfast: Breakfast strata, fresh fruit, trailmix cookies
Saturday Lunch: Sweet & sour chicken, sticky rice, veggies
Saturday Dinner: Swedish porkloin, roasted apples, wholegrain pilaf
Sunday Breakfast: fruit breads, boiled eggs, handmade sausage
Alternatives will be available for various diets. Be sure to let us know what you need when you sign up!
Some other things you will need to know:
NPC Opt-Outs.
There's been a small change in how we're going to work with Opt-outs, specifically because of the growing size of our game. Early on, until we can understand the full scope of how many people we'll level off with at regular games, we're specifically less interested in offering Opt-outs. As a game, it's not a mandatory option - it's a convenience. We'd like to keep that convenience, especially for those that need it. So please review the two items of note below so you can understand how they'll work moving forward.
1) Medical Opt-out
This one is simple - it will never increase in price, and is intended for those that physically cannot participate in an NPC shift. While we have numerous options for folks that need arrangements to make an NPC shift happen, there will always be this option as well. To leverage this option, you MUST contact us at wisconsin.dystopiarising@gmail.com prior to registration. We will tell you how to proceed from there. You WILL NOT see this option on the site for registration - it can only be leveraged via talking to the Director staff.
2) NPC Opt-out
This option will change over time. Right now, the price is a bit higher than we'd expect it to be as it settles, specifically because we'd prefer people to take the NPC shift so we can continue to offer plenty of plot and interaction. There will be very limited quantities at this time, and each game this option will be re-evaluated based on NPC shift needs and how the game performed with the NPC levels. The expectation is that as we get more regular players, the price of this option will decrease over time until it settles into a more permanent space. The numbers of this opt-out type DO NOT impact Medical Opt-outs at all.
In short: We're attempting to ensure we respect those with medical needs in the variety of ways we have at our disposal, while letting the game population help us dictate proper NPC shifts. Our expectation is that this will level off over the first season, and we'll let you know when everything is where we expect it to remain.
If you have medical issues but still want to NPC our STs have plenty of things to do, and one of our goals is to have a constant stream of "one person non-com NPC duties" that we can send people out with. Simple social mods that we can orange headband folks up, and send them out for RP. While we can't do that for everyone, we CAN spread people in this situation through multiple shifts as well.
Even at the absolute worst case scenario, we have one-off jobs in and around monster camp - getting people made-up, helping pull the next set of props, etc - that can fill gaps where you aren't out in the field so don't feel like you HAVE to purchase an opt-out.
There is still no charge for NPCing the entire weekend. Though you will still need to purchase the meal plan if you wish to be on it.
Looking to earn AP for the Wisconsin Game? You can do so by donating items the game needs!
You will receive 1 AP for each dollar spent. Be sure to save your receipts and email them to wisconsin.dystopiarising@gmail.com or send a copy to:
6508 S. 27th St.
Suite 9 #282
Oak Creek WI 53154
You will receive the AP once we have both the items and the receipt in hand. If you don’t have a receipt, we will give you a general AP total based off of amazon price and condition of item rounded up to the nearest dollar. AP can be spent at the first game, or any subsequent game.
http://www.amazon.com/gp/registry/wishlist/3ESZ962L6JWMC/ref=cm_wl_rlist_go_o?
Most everything is on the Amazon Wish List. Everything with an (*) behind it is specific to that brand/type. If it doesn’t have an (*) behind it that means it’s a non-specific item and can be donated at will. This allows you to see exactly what we need as well as have it shipped directly to us. If you don’t want to pay for shipping, you are more than welcome to drop it off at game itself.
If you are interested in donating NPC costumes be aware we accept costumes in size large and up.
Please comment on the forums post if you are purchasing something so we can keep track of what is being purchased to avoid duplicates. Once someone says they are buying something, I'll take it off the list.
If you have questions, ask!
CHECK THE WISH LIST BEFORE YOU BUY! In several instances we have very specific needs.
Office Supplies
Costume and Makeup
Boffers and Packets
Medical Kit
Everyone who joins us at this event will earn AP for the DR:WI branch. No changes to your character sheet can be made, nor will XP be earned or spent. This will not be included in your 'first three games' rewrite period. This is a great way to test out Dystopia Rising to see if it will become your next addiction!
If you have any questions, or are interested in signing up to play an NPC, email wisconsin.dystopiarising@gmail.com
Friday - 2:00 PM - 6:00 PM
Winters can be cold and harsh in Wishigan, and the city of Mill Walkway is no exception. The harvest from the last year hasn’t helped, with dwindling food and supplies in the outlying, smaller areas. In conjunction with the International Brewers Union, the Schlabst family has funded a gathering in the confines of Mill City’s expansive downtown area, and have offered to open their grain stores to protect the farming community within the nearby reach of the city. Perhaps more unprecedented, the call has been sent across the wastes for those that may find worthwhile trade ties to the local area. Steel Horse Crossing, one of the major production towns of the Ironworks, will have representation among their farming and machinery resources, which may offer some unique opportunities for locals and visitors alike. There’s nothing like a good party, but a party thrown by one of the largest brewing family’s in the Ironworks? There’s sure to be a number of tales worth telling.
Can you make it through another winter without this offer? Will the zed or raiders find you before you find the city? Will the Schlabst mansion be all that you ever imagined?
Can you survive? Prove it!
Saturday - 7:00 PM - Midnight
The local community, capitalizing on the generosity of the Schlabst family and the crowd available, have gathered to provide a unique opportunity to locals and visitors alike at the Schlabst mansion. A medical symposium, hosted by doctor and scholar E. Cummins Wrigley, will take place at the top of the evening hour. A chance to both introduce medical technique, and participate in a great variety of topics, will be available to those predisposed. For the more martially inclined, a tournament of blood and steel has been set by Master Barnum, purveyor of entertainment – not only will prizes be offered, but wagers are encouraged. Drinks will be provided! Rules to be disclosed at the games. Lastly, the local Hedons and King’s Court members invite those interested in celebration and music to join them, promising both a chance to serenade the victors of combat and the ability to begin the trek home without being able to see straight. Trade and opportunity will be available as always. Surprises are in store for all. No one will leave empty handed.
Will you brave the evening and see what Mill City has to offer? Is it wise to miss the chance to experience science and religion? Do you really want to miss opportunity knocking?
Can you survive? Prove it!
The underbelly of any good society
Anywhere there is a reasonable population there also exists a part of that population that wants to take advantage of the more unsavory elements around them. Whether it be money, adventure or blood that fuels this desire one may never know, but there are two well-known facets of life that people turn to for specific tasks that may not be easily accomplished on the up and up. If you want something you can’t get, or want nothing more than to get rid of something, you might be able to find others to help you. Perhaps you even have gotten involved yourself. Not that you’d know anything about it when asked…
The Black Market and Black Market Connections
The Ironworks proper has its own rules that prevent certain things from occurring within a ‘civilized’ society. While business typically keeps most doors open, sometimes laws and regulations prevent certain things from showing up where you want them most. Add to the equation that Steel Horse Crossing has additional local laws to prevent productivity from dropping and to keep unsavory aspects limited in size and scope, and you end up with a market that remains relatively dry of goods in specific categories.
Enter the Black Market. Representatives of a larger group, those that service the underground marketplace both buy and sell goods that one might otherwise have difficulty with. They offer services beyond the ordinary, opportunity to get rich, and offers that are hard to resist. All you have to do is disavow any knowledge they exist, hide the existence of such to the public at large, take personal responsibility for illegal things on your own head, and accept the fact that if you talk about the organization openly that you’ll likely end up never having access to it again. It sounds like a tough existence, but the benefits might just outweigh the drawbacks.
Did you know that certain mind-altering substances aren’t allowed in Steel Horse at all? Or that certain consumables are only acceptable on the Hedon High Saturday? Not everyone loves those rules, and you could be the one to help those folks skirt the law if you’re interested.
Local Game Mechanics: Black Market Connections is required to interface with the Black Market. All players with the skill on their sheet as they start the game will be given a contact that they should (discreetly!) get in touch with in-game, which will link them to the in-game system. All those learning Black Market Connections as a skill must be brought into the organization during gameplay via roleplay. This system is based entirely on in-game interaction, and you hold your own destiny where this interaction is concerned. In many respects, the Black Market is self-regulating, but players abusing the skill by talking about it openly, or otherwise being caught via blatant lack of regard may also be dealt with on an in-game basis by the Black Market structure. This skill may be removed from your sheet given egregious misuse. Those attaining Black Market Connections and successfully integrating with the in-game system will have access to further documentation that gives more specific details on what is available to them, and how they can use the skill regularly in game.
The Guild and Guild Membership
The game of blood is difficult to understand, and even more difficult to control. The layers of people upon people to disguise an organization that takes on such a game is very difficult to navigate. You have somehow made a contact within the Guild, and by doing so, have access to those that are involved in the game of blood itself. Perhaps you’re even a player in said game?
Opening the door to the Guild grants you access to setting contracts on someone’s head, working with contracts that are currently in play, and even taking contracts yourself if you’re capable. Your contacts, whether you know them or not, are always watching. Once you signal, they may show up anytime, anywhere, to meet with you. Whatever you do, don’t fail the organization – failure is rarely an option.
Local Game Mechanics: Guild Member is required to interface with the local guild. All players with the skill on their sheet as they start the game will be given a contact that they should (discreetly!) get in touch with in-game, which will link them to the in-game system. Others that learn this skill must be brought into the organization during gameplay via roleplay. This system is based entirely on in-game interaction, and you hold your own destiny where this interaction is concerned. While no player is forced to interact with the guild system – particularly taking on contracts – you may be approached from time to time to retain your membership via certain activities. This is the most secretive organization available to players, and should be treated accordingly. This skill may be removed from your sheet given egregious misuse. Those attaining Guild Membership and successfully integrating with the in-game system will have access to further documentation that gives more specific details on what is available to them, and how they can use the skill regularly in game.
One of the key components of the Ironworks, making it a power to be reckoned with, is the military might that has been composed over the years. Not only has a strong, standing military presence been available since most can remember, the Ironworks has also made it a key initiative to have an expeditionary force to push into new territory on the borderlands as well as a keen navy to patrol and protect the waters of The Great Lake. All three of these components operate separately and independently, but have a unified goal in the protection and expansion of the ever-growing Ironworks.
The military also has the distinction of being one of the few safe harbors for psionists, as they are required to serve a five year term in order to secure their safety and freedom. Without this term, psionists are often hunted and taken care of in less than civilized means. Historically, this has been an overt effort in Steel Horse Crossing, as rumors about psionists are both wide and varied, but none of them bear good news. It is also rumored that slaves may somehow earn their freedom through service, though such rumors are often cautionary rather than exemplary. One might only imagine what the military could do with slaves as expendable resources.
The Iron Navy
Perhaps the most well-known presence in Steel Horse Crossing is the Iron Navy, built up next to the town on the skeleton of a shipping dock from ages past. Unlike many of the areas around the Ironworks, both Mill City and Rail City were founded on the waters of The Great Lake. Over the years, constant threats from raiding parties and insurgents from the north – as near as Minisoda, and up through Canuckistan – created a need for protection over the water. When the Ironworks had engaged with Steel Horse initially, it was not only for the great machines that could be made from The Boneyard, but also the strategic positioning of a naval force that could properly defend the waterways into the Works. Perhaps most interesting is the placement of an admiral of the fleet in this most northern outpost, which is not as typical for ranking officers in the military who are usually found living in safety.
Far more prolific in Steel Horse, sailors make up part of everyday life in the town, taking leave for entertainment, drinking, gambling, and even spending time with their families. While the naval base is highly protected, and entry without an invitation is typically a death sentence, the constant flow of sailors keeps the town relatively at ease having such a dangerous facility nearby. Indeed, many sailors are regular residents in the town. Sailors are expected to be on call at all times, even those on leave, and may be issued emergency orders that will send them to water at a moment’s notice.
(The Iron Navy aspect of the military is not available to players of DR: Wisconsin prior to play as a background or active RP device without Director approval. Anyone interested in active RP and society membership with the Iron Navy should generally look for this opportunity in game for the easiest option. Those choosing to join the Iron Navy will be “on leave” during events they attend.)
Privateering and Pirating
While not specifically military in nature, the Privateers of The Great Lake are not unknown. These are typically former Iron Navy sailors looking for a more profitable, and dangerous, lifestyle on the open water. While not a particularly welcome site for any sailor, the privateers have been authorized by the Ironworks to hunt down potential foreign threats and disarm them. The definition of “disarm” is somewhat ambiguous in these instances. Privateers are generally welcome in most ports, but require special dispensation to dock at any navy installation.
Unlike the privateers, who while generally disliked are accepted, pirates also pass through the waters and are wholly despised. The pirates of The Great Lake will prey on almost anything of value that won’t pose too much of a challenge, which typically equates to traders and merchants, whether from the North or the Ironworks. Pirates are universally hunted on the waters, and are welcome nowhere.
(Privateering is available to players based in DR: Wisconsin that have the ability “Sailing” and have a boat or ship large enough for a crew. These opportunities are offered solely in game. Due to the extreme nature of Pirating, and the short lifespan therein, players wishing to join Pirating organizations may want to reconsider – These opportunities are also offered solely in game.)
The Iron Guard
The Iron Guard is the military force almost everyone within the boundaries of the Ironworks is familiar with. A seemingly unending stream of bodies fill the rank and file in one of the few standing armies left today, protecting everything in and around major cities and strongholds across the entire ‘Works. The soldiers range from fresh grunts, training to take on military operations, to the generals of the army, leading from on high – and many times, from the safety of their large cities. The primary purpose of the Iron Guard is varied, but they rarely stray too far from more important venues. Specialized detachments that encompass an array of purposes are normal, and are deployed as needed. Some of these include scouting, medical support, reconnaissance, demolition, fire teams and other more nefarious groups.
In Steel Horse, the Iron Guard are not seen nearly as often as sailors of the Iron Navy, given the proximity of the town to the naval base. The Iron Guard, when present, are usually in town for a purpose and are not often expected to stay long. There is a token presence near the town deployed from Mill City, but most keep their distance.
(The Iron Guard aspect of the military is not available to players of DR: Wisconsin prior to play as a background or active RP device without Director approval. As a background, please note that any player wishing to be approved for a history with service in the Iron Guard requires 50 xp to demonstrate skills learned during service. Anyone interested in active service RP and society membership with the Iron Guard should generally look for this opportunity in game for the easiest option.)
The Ironworks Expeditionary Forces
Part of living in a thriving, well-populated area of the world includes the need to grow and expand. While the Iron Guard advance safety and security, and fight battles closer to home, a unique opportunity for those willing (or assigned) to take more risk is available in the Ironworks Expeditionary Forces. These soldiers vary wildly, from those unfit for the more civilized Iron Guard to battle-hardened veterans looking to carve out the name of the Ironworks in areas not yet conquered. You will find all types here, and not one of them typically lasts long unless they are willing to adapt and overcome the harsh conditions of living outside the safety and comfort of the cities. The most well-known group of the Expeditionary Forces is the NMA, or New Model Army, stationed in the south of the Ironworks in Fort Seymour. This group has continually fought off the advances of a raider “king”, King Louie, for some years with the support of the town and visitors.
(The Ironworks Expeditionary Forces and the NMA are not available to players of DR: Wisconsin prior to play as a background without Director approval. As a background, please note that any player wishing to be approved for a history of service with the Expeditionary Forces require 50 xp to demonstrate skills learned during service. Anyone interested in using the NMA in their background must seek permission of the ST Director of Fields of Iron, DR: Indiana, as well as the ST Director of DR: Wisconsin. No players based in DR: Wisconsin will be allowed to have this society membership in play at any time. Any character transferred with this society membership will work with the ST Director to transfer the character from the NMA to another military organization available to DR: Wisconsin.)
Red Stars and the Madtown Commune Splinter Cell
“How’d we get our name? Well that’s easy, man… in the middle of Merican-central, with all the rides, like, zooming up and down the Ironworks, the best way to get from place to place is to stick out your thumb. Most folks used to ignore us, but lately, we ‘excursionist’ types are getting noticed. Ain’t no need to use that capitalist idolatry to commute when you got ass or grass. Night Riders, baby. No better way to fly.” - Sandy Moon, Night Rider Mare, Sawbones
In the middle of a capitalist hub, a bastion of liberals and communists have risen to thrive over the years. The Madtown Commune has long been a collective work between those that believe in communal works, and the Sainthood of Ashes around them that have made Madtown a place of healing and hope. These are things that are difficult to find in the bleak Ironworks, and the strength of conviction the locals hold to these ideals has held all the pieces together with very little resistance. Medicine, science, engineering, literacy and invention all thrive in Madtown. While originally the Ironworks saw the Commune as a place of threats and defiance, they have more recently come to understand the fine balance that can be provided with cheap labor and open minds.
Fortunately, the founders of Steel Horse Crossing saw the benefits of their liberal neighbors and, despite the protest from Mill City, took those loyal and helpful citizens of Madtown under wing in order to ensure a good work ethic and a thriving community. The population of Steel Horse has adjusted as they grew, and the Ironworks has made a point to supply the town with more material than is necessary in order to properly fuel the industry of the Night Riders, the local splinter of the parent Madtown Commune. In fact, it is a locally held ideal that the Night Riders Grassroots Collective, or the NRGC, are being favored for certain work due to the desire to keep courting the skills and abilities available to them.
Anyone, particularly Red Stars and those sharing the beliefs of the Sainthood of Ashes, are welcome to join the NRGC as long as they agree with the primary principles of both the local and regional cells. At the heart of their work, the Night Riders are formed around the common beliefs of many Red Stars: The community is paramount to the individual, and should be provided for by everyone in the community.
The Night Riders are split into titles to venerate their age and ability to survive. The titles are not a formality, but just another adjective by which to refer to someone with respect.
Children: Colt (Male), Filly (Female)
Adult: Stallion (Male), Mare (Female)
Elder: Sire (Male), Dam (Female)
Just as important to the NRGC members are those named as adversaries, who would treat others with disrespect or disdain. While the NRGC realizes that not everyone shares their beliefs or values, those that would specifically undermine or harm them are labeled as either Geldings – harmless, but otherwise not pleasant – or Glue – to be avoided at all costs.