LUSTRIAS
Welcome to the LUSTRIAS Project – Third Casting Call! ^_^
UPDATED – September 22, 2018
THE STORY:
Lustrias is the story of a young game designer, Nicholas Reinhardt, and his stepsister Emily, who are taken to multiple realms in order to defeat Melenite and his demon army. Along the way, Nicholas and Emily meet many unique and exciting characters, including an obsessive succubus, a dragon, a lazy princess elf, a crazed vampire, creepy ghouls and goblins, powerful werewolves, ale guzzling dwarves, huge determined spiders, and a monstrous black echidna, just to name a few.
Nicholas and Emily seem to be in mortal danger on almost a daily basis. They just seem to attract misfortune like a magnet. Through it all, their band of unlikely heroes come together and conquer every challenge put in front of them.
THE SCOPE:
Lustrias is an episodic audio drama and visual novel. So, we will be posting a new episode on iTunes and Amazon approximately once every month or so. Each episode will run roughly a little less than an hour each. We're looking for a crew of people with some awesome voices to help us flesh out the mountains of dialogue needed to tell the story. This will be a 24-episode fantasy anime. So, there will be an intro and outro song. Also, a lot of the usual anime tropes are present within the material, giving a sort of parody feeling similar to a combination of Fairytail and High School DxD.
The visual novel is currently under production. A ton of new characters and roles will be opened to help with that as well. However, that is for the future.
AUDITIONS/RULES:
Each person will have an equal chance to show us what he/she has got! This is your time to show off and impress us, so don't give us half of your energy. We want to see what you think this character will sound like, act like, be like. Get into their head and feel their emotions as if they were your own! We can't tell you how many times we've auditioned for a role on stage, and totally nailed it because we gave it everything we had. Even if we didn't get the role, we knew deep down we gave it 100%.
All of the characters will contain a basic character description and have two to three sample lines for you to record. We tried our best to choose lines that we thought would best showcase to us what you can bring to the character. Many of these lines are pulled directly from the scripts. If you feel that your recording wasn’t your best and you wish to redo it, please send us a message and let us know.
We would prefer the auditions to be in a .WAV format. We don't want any compression of the sound. But, if you don't have that capability, then please present
your audition in an .mp3 file.
Finally, everyone can submit auditions for multiple characters, too. Goodness knows there's a ton of them! So, if you feel that you might fit another role as
well, then by all means try out for it! :D
PAYMENT/CREDIT:
All payments to cast members will be made through PayPal. They will be sent to each individual actor/actress once the lines for each episode are finished – usually around the end of each month.
PAYMENT AMOUNTS PER EPISODE:
LEAD ROLE: $15.00 per episode
SUPPORTING ROLE: $8.00 per episode
MINOR ROLE: $5.00 per episode
EXTRA: $2.00 per episode
Any failure to produce your lines without a proper excuse ahead of time (i.e. death in the family, serious illness, birth in the family, moving to new location) will result in a lowered payment or none at all. Please make sure you have the schedule open to do all of your required episodes. If you have any doubts about that, then you can either message us with your concerns, or simply apply to another project. We need a dedicated crew to see this through to the end. We would hate to have to recast a character well into the project.
Everyone involved with the project will receive:
#1 Payment.
#2 Credit on both the CD and the Visual Novel.
#3 A physical CD once the entire project is finished.
#4 Free digital copies of each episode.
#5 A copy of the visual novel.
#6 A chance to better themselves and grow as an actor/actress.
#7 Hopefully, will have a ton of fun making something so unique.
If anyone does an amazing job on his/her role then they might receive a higher payment for that episode. :)
WHAT WE'RE LOOKING FOR/SCHEDULE:
We need a crew of talented cats with good to really good equipment. We shouldn't have to go through hundreds of files and nit pic every background noise, buzz, or pop that is present. Quality is key!
The schedule will be thus:
Third Casting Call – Runs from September 2, 2018 through October 15, 2018. (We will probably need additional casting calls as the project progresses).
We will cast people as they come in for extras and such. Once the final date arrives then all remaining roles will be closed.
Spring, 2020 will be the release of the final episode of Season 1 of the Lustrias audio drama.
The visual novel and an anime are also in the works. ;)
FINAL WORDS/NOTES:
We would also like to point out that not everyone will be starting right away, just those with the episode(s) that we are currently producing. At this posting, those episodes are Episodes 10, 11, and 12.
The main picture of the listing was done by a wonderful artist whom we hired named Aditya. All the other pictures used are a combination of the visual novel photographs by Hannah Potts and images found on Google.
In the end, have fun, and don't be afraid to shine! Good luck to all of our actors <3
The Lustrias Team
DISCORD: LustriasDiscord
P.S.: If you really like the LUSTRIAS project, then you can share this project with your friends and family.
You can also follow us on our Twitter here ---> https://twitter.com/lustriasproject
Join our Facebook Group here ---> Lustrias Facebook Group
Thanks ^_^
George Keller
President/CEO
Green Moon Productions
Cobos is a more mature dwarf, with long white hair swept back over his head and braids in his beard. His eyebrows are fluffy wild arches above his intelligent hazel eyes. Cobos wears a dragon tooth on a silver chain around his neck. His voice should reflect his depth of experience and maturity.
"Closer? (laughs) Are you crazy? We can almost see up their nostrils as it is! Either attack the goblins or retreat down the mountain. (growls in throat, then demanding) Now, which is it to be?”
“What’s going through Havok’s head? Why doesn’t he attack? What in blazes is he waiting for?”
Dervol is a middle-aged dwarf with black hair secured by brass rings and a rather bulbous nose. His dark brown eyes miss little. Dervol carries a massive black war hammer augmented with three bronze rings and he loves to be in the heart of any battle. When he isn’t fighting, Dervol likes to stretch out in a corner where he can watch those entering the room, and quietly smoke his long stemmed pipe.
“Oh, no you don’t, you disgusting bag of bones!”
(whacking goblin with war hammer) "Hah! Hah! Hah! Take that, you hulking beastie!”
Werewolf Ernst Grafstein has claimed Gabriella Leonie Vanhurst as his mate, although she hasn’t exactly agreed to the union. Hansel Americ Vanhurst, Gabby’s brother, has encouraged the match, since it will cement the two old families together. However, the head of the clan, George Vanhurst, remains doubtful, repeatedly testing Ernst’s loyalty to the clan and ability to lead. These attempts to impress George Vanhurst sometimes make Ernst bitter. To Ernst, his union with Gabby is all but assured; only the mating ritual itself remains.
“There! You see? What did I tell you? This is the stuff of dreams. Pure fantasy!”
(proudly) "What utter nonsense, Gabby. Everyone knows that some day, you will be my mate. (pause, then firmly) I hold what is mine!”
“Of what use is it, Hansel? (heavy sigh) I grow weary of these constant trials. I know you may have faith in me, but your father does not. How many times must I prove my loyalty to the clan?”
Filauria is an exceptionally tall female elf, which makes it difficult for her to find a suitable mate. She has long blonde hair so pale that it is almost white, and is gentle and graceful. Filauria often assists Lord Draemar, the elven priest, in the temple.
“But Princess Cecily, you shouldn’t get up. Your shoulder!”
(frantically) "Your Highness! They’ve set fire to the second coach. How can we put out the blaze without water?”
Frederic is a fourth year student at Tristar Academy. He comes from a wealthy family and has a German accent. He loves sausages, dark chocolate, pickles and sauerkraut – not necessarily in that order. The cut of Frederic’s clothes may be immaculate, but he is secretly lonely and desperate to make friends.
(annoyed) “Do we have to do this just now? All day, I’ve been smelling those marvelous aromas coming out of the kitchen, and I don’t want to wait any longer!”
“I’d be happy to escort you, Nora. My parents made me take dancing lessons when I was younger. (chuckles) It’s about time I put all of that education to work.”
Gunter is a young werewolf, with a round face and unusually large ears. Although nearly fully grown, Gunter still envisions himself as more of a pup than a young man. He is mischievous and creative, often sending Gabby Vanhurst into fits of giggles as he endeavors to outdo some of the young werewolves vying to be selected as her mate. Although Gunter may daydream of one day becoming Gabby’s mate, Gabby remains completely oblivious to his desires. To her, Gunter will always be the adoring little jester and a good friend.
(jubilantly) "All right! Just wait till the other guys hear about this. I’m going on a hunt with Elfriede!”
“You don’t understand, Renate. (sad sigh) Gabby only sees me as a child, a funny little friend with whom she can play games and race through the hallways. (with sudden determination) I have dreams and visions, too! I can see into the future. I can see that glorious day when she becomes my mate and everything will be all right again.”
(Excitedly) "It could work, Gabby! All we have to do is climb under the bridge and cross where no one can see us. Then, when the guards aren’t looking, we slip into the castle and go upstairs. We can grab the document, then hurry back down again before we’re discovered. It will be fantastic! You’ll see.”
Harriet Engel is a rather shy and retiring young lady. She wears large glasses with thick black rims and her skin is covered with freckles. Harriet has a high, somewhat whining voice, which makes those around her feel as though she’s picking on them even when she isn’t.
“Ew! Xerxes! Yuck!”
“I wouldn’t be caught dead doing that! (chuckles uncomfortably, then becomes serious) Of course, if what you say is true, and the demonites really do come to Tristar Academy, all of our issues
really wouldn’t matter any more, would they?”
Hycis is a female archer and an excellent hunter. She typically wears dark brown leggings, with a long green vest. If she allowed it to escape, her riot of flaming red curls would be magnificent, but Hycis has no patience with her hair. Instead, she keeps it firmly braided and out of the way. Hycis’ family comes from a distant village and she has an accent which distinguishes her from the rest of the elves.
(breathlessly) "There are so many of them and there’s no place to go! What shall we do, your Highness?”
“I’ll pick off the leaders, if I can. See if you can slow the other goblins down a little. And whatever you do, don’t let them reach the queen!”
Kench is a middle-aged dwarf with long brown hair and startlingly golden eyes. He prefers his large axe over the sword and glories in hand to hand combat. A born leader, Kench is typically at the head of any hunting party. He has a great sense of humor and a hearty appetite for ale.
“Whoa! Look at the size of that thing! It’s as big as a mountain!”
(grimly) "King Herod knows that Havok will take no prisoners this day. If the dwarves and elves fight each other, as well, we will both be overrun. (now with hope) However, if we band together, we may stand a chance.”
(chuckling ruefully) "I don’t mean to hasten this little discussion, but if the king doesn’t receive a response from me within a few minutes, the battle will commence – with or without me. Now then, what’s it to be, lads?”
Lord Halgondas is a very slender, regal looking elf. He has long black hair secured by an elaborate silver coronet around his head and he wears a matching silver link necklace. Although Lord Halgondas is garbed in the height of fashion, wearing a long, tooled coat, he is an elf of action. No one can best him in the use of sword or knife.
“None of us asked for this predicament, but you cannot ignore the facts. Although we loved our home in the forest of Arna, we couldn’t remain there. My own home was beautiful, but hardly a fortress. Even those who chose to remain behind quickly fled into the caverns. (sigh) No. Looking back is futile.”
“Up the hill, your Majesty! Look out!”
Ryllae is a somewhat buxom elf with very curly black hair. She has a very up-front type of personality and has the ability to speak to almost anyone with ease. Normally, Ryllae serves in the elven tavern, but is equally at ease as a skilled archer should the need arise.
(to the Princess) "Indeed? Even if it’s for your own good. (pause, then sternly) Besides, it’s now three against one.”
(gasp) “There’s more goblins coming down the hill! And trolls, too!”
Sugura is a tiny little woman of Oriental descent. She has straight black hair and deep brown eyes. As the daughter of a pirate and a concubine, Sugura literally had to pull her way out of the depths of a jaded lifestyle to live at Tristar. Gifted with a lovely singing voice, Sugura also plays the stringed Koto and Shamisen. She is an incurable romantic. At times, however, her pirate blood is revealed and Sugura has quite a temper. Her revenge is swift and usually permanent. Sugura is a black belt and if an opponent survives her direct assault, she blows him up with fireworks.
“(angrily) My aunt is a pirate still, but I have no desire to embrace such a life. Every one of a pirate’s days is uncertain and risky. No. I endured enough of that when I was much younger. Never again shall I allow myself to be carried away by the fickle whims of fate. Now, I, Sugura, am in control of my own destiny! That – is the way it has been. And THAT is the way it shall always be!”
“Callisto, move to one side, please. (groans as she pushes him) I think you’re sitting on top of her.”
To put it simply, Symon Riddell is a nerd. Symon is short and slender, but he thinks quickly and has great reflexes. It’s for these reasons that Symon is usually the student testing most of Professor Zuniga’s aircraft and other inventions at Tristar Academy.
“Don’t worry about me, professor. I’m fine. See? (chuckles) Not a mark on me that won’t wash off. However, the Butrisaur – well, let’s just say it’s seen better days. Do you think we can repair it by Friday?”
“I’m sorry. I was testing one of the professor’s new inventions and (chuckles) it sort of exploded. Do you think Professor Pottswig will mind if I’m a little bit late for class?”
Violen is a strange creature. Half elf and half human, she is sometimes set apart from the rest of the elves. However, Violen rose to prominence when she confronted and defeated Katra, a very powerful sorceress. Unfortunately, Violen did not escape unscathed and a dark purple stripe now marks the hair falling at the side of her face.
(desperately, gasp) "And another goblin, your Majesty! Do they mean to burn us out then?”
(anxiously) "The Queen may be right, your Majesty. You ARE a little pale.”
Sheikh Karif Funar is the head of the Harazood, a nomadic desert tribe which frequently camps near the Oasis of Zilal in the desert of Miramoor. Wise beyond his years, Karif is a man of action, balancing the demands of a changing modern world against the old ways. Karif has sent his second son, Barath, to Tristar Academy in the hope that he will be able to bring back this new knowledge and help his tribe thrive in the uncertain future.
“These visitors bring many advances of interest to our people. They are like curious little children,
reaching for the bright flames of the fire without the knowledge that it may burn them. Do I err in attempting to protect them, to prevent them from being injured by a culture that they do not understand?”
(angrily) "Once again, you have tricked us, Tarquin! Did you think us foolish enough to trust you this time when all of your promises only resulted in problems and wasted coin? (growls angrily) In the old days, I would have buried you alive in the sand and allowed the desert creatures to consume you, piece by tiny piece!”
“(in a hushed voice) It is a changing world in which we live, Olek. If the Harazood do not rise to meet
it, I fear that it shall utterly consume us."
Tarquin Fahim is a trader extraordinaire. This experienced man would do almost anything if there is any profit in it – and if it won’t get him killed. Wily and inventive, he can pick locks, steal horses, weapons and women – not necessarily in that order. No one knows where Tarquin came from and very few have the courage to ask. Tarquin’s back is scarred by the lash and the tip of a finger on his left hand has been cut off for his past transgressions.
(excitedly) "I swear to you, Turkia, you won’t be disappointed. Just a little bit of this green magic powder and davanti! You will be forever changed.”
(desperately) "Sheikh Funar, I – I am just as surprised as you are! If I had known that the swords
were faulty, I never would have sold them to you. I do business in this desert every year. I cannot afford my reputation to be marred by outlandish claims of trickery and deceit. (pause, then more upbeat) Very well then. I’ll make a deal with you. You let me go this time and when I pass this way again, I’ll settle everything. How’s that?”
Rakim Noorani is one of Barath Funar’s friends and is a member of the Harazood tribe. Rakim believes in the old ways, when might was right. He is a large, young man, well-muscled, with curly black hair and a green jeweled earring in his left earlobe. Popular with the women, Rakim is nevertheless in no hurry to marry.
“We should return to the ways of the ancient ones. If their traditions lasted for centuries, who are we to change them? This foolish habit of listening to foreigners with their bright gadgets can only result in tragedy.”
“(chuckling) Don’t be ridiculous, Nasir. I have no room in my heart for a woman. I have been, and always will be, a warrior. As long as some female brings me food and water and prepares my tent, I am satisfied.”
Innis is a young, indentured servant to Tarquin Fahim, the trader. He has sandy brown hair and blue eyes. Innis yearns for freedom and adventure, but realizes he’s trapped until his debt to Tarquin is repaid.
“(in a hushed voice) When I was young, I used to look up at these stars and dream of the future. (chuckles) I thought that one day, I might be a great explorer, discovering lost cities or maybe an
adventurer, leading a contingent into the forbidden mountains. (pause, then sadly) Instead, my father sold me to Tarquin. It was either that or go to prison himself. I suppose he had no choice, but I can’t help wishing that things could have been different, you know?”
(astonished) "ALL of them? (chuckles) We barely have enough food and water to cross to the first oasis ourselves. There must be a couple hundred of them. How can we possibly gather enough food
in water to leave tomorrow?”
Ryzul is the Commander of the army under Morda, Queen of the Spiders. Ryzul bears the scarred evidence of numerous battles upon his face and wears a black patch over his missing left eye. He views every battle as his opportunity to show Lennix his achievements, hopefully, one day, leading to a move up in the world.
“The Desert of Miramoor is a dangerous place, Morda, and these intruders obviously have no idea what they’re getting into. Even if they find someone to lead them, they may be dead before we can
confront them.”
(doubtfully) "Is that wise, my queen? If we take all of the Tarans with us, won’t that leave the nest somewhat diminished? The spiderlings are still too young to be of much use to Lord Lennix. (chuckles) I observed a few of their training sessions and I’m sorry to say that some of them lack the basic intelligence of a fish!”
Lykash is a big, burly muscular man, who delights in doing Haroon’s dirty work. He views every slave as little more than a piece of meat. He has two flaws – his love of drink and elaborate foods. His voice should be deep and powerful, except when he’s excited.
(laughs evilly, then with determination) "With pleasure! The women won’t realize they’re trapped until it’s too late. Considering how unusual they are, you might be able to sell them for a king’s
ransom!”
(excitedly) "Roast ankhbar with honey, stuffed with wild herabids? Are you sure? Why it’s the stuff of dreams! Of course, a good Ilerian ale would be perfect to wash it down. And for dessert, do you think you could find some pickled spiderlings or maybe even – (gasp) – a huge Panuplian tart? Oh! After such a marvelous feast, I could die happy!”
Winona runs one of the import shops in Shandrizor, which is filled with dozens of intriguing items from the surrounding mountains and even some bronze and jeweled goods imported from Krystalia and fabrics from Lumeria. She is mature and vigilant of those who might wish to steal from her.
(excitedly anticipating purchase) "You’ll find everything you need right here, ladies. There are fine silks imported from Lumeria and delicate goblets from Krystalia. I spared no expense getting them here, of course. The price may seem a little higher than normal, but you get what you pay for, don’t you? (chuckles delightedly) Now then, how many yards of silk would you like?”
(firmly) "Now, sir, if you’re going to continue this discussion about having them join the Shah’s harem, I’d prefer it if you did this outside! They seem rather excitable and I’ve just set out the
last of the Lumerian silks this morning. With things the way they are now, who knows when I’ll get any more. So, shoo! Out with the lot of you!”
Ovaak is a senior Taran, a huge tan spider about the size of a St. Bernard dog. He is missing most of one mandible, which was cut from him by the young warrior Wovaroo during a battle long ago. He fears that one day, Wovaroo will make good his promise to return and remove the other mandible and maybe his head along with it. This fear makes him anxious and his voice should be a little higher than most of the Taran spiders.
(agitated and fearful) "You have no idea what it’s like, Cretin. I did everything I could to defeat him, but Wovaroo fought like a demon! He cut me and then stood over me, swearing that one day, he’d return and finish the job. (shuddering) Oooooh! I still have nightmares about it. (pause) I know it was a long time ago and, if he lived, he’s probably a very old man by now. Still, I keep out a sharp eye, just in case!”
“The Desert of Miramoor? (gasps) That’s where it all happened! I can’t go back there, Jervul. I can’t! Besides, the desert is just acres of sand and abandoned cities. Better to let the desert creatures have the intruders than risk our lives defending a group of useless interlopers.”
Cretin is a heavily scarred, mature Taran spider, with alternating black and tan stripes. Numerous scars crisscross his carapace and one of his pedipalps is permanently bent, where it was once nearly severed and healed poorly. His voice should be low, with a gravelly quality to it.
(scoffing) "What need have I of these meager travelers? Most of them would barely make a good-sized meal and others are sometimes covered with fur! I could spend half of the night picking the
hairs out of my mandibles!”
(angrily) "Jump at this chance, if you like, Jervul. However, I obtained every one of these scars in battle. I may not be as quick as I used to be. Still, no other Taran has lasted this long in Lord Lennix’s service. You might try to remember that!”
This young, vigorous Taran is fearless and full of bluster. However, Jervul has never seen any real action and frequently boasts of prowess which has never been realized. His ignorance makes him both bold and, at times, a little foolish. He has a black head, a tan body, and “boots” of black fur at the ends of his legs.
(affronted) "You doubt me? Of course, it’s true! Why could Lord Lennix specifically call upon us if he didn’t think that we could defeat them? After all, we ARE his greatest soldiers, are we not? (then excitedly, worshipful) And Queen Morda herself – Yes, Queen Morda! – is leading us! (ecstatic sigh) It will be such a glorious battle! They’ll be singing about it in these halls for years to come and I can say that I was there!”
(excitedly) "Then this time, we could see some real action, couldn’t we, Cretin? Just wait until the others hear about this! Ha! They’ll be so jealous!”
Vershir is a ruthless and cunning Taran spider (huge spiders about the size of a St. Bernard dog). A seasoned warrior, this all black large spider has many kills to his name. Vershir enjoys the hunt and the kill and is only too happy to leap into any confrontation. His voice should be deep and vibrant; his laugh chilling, for to hear him means almost certain death.
“Ah, I see. (chuckles) It’s been years since I’ve been to the Desert of Miramoor, but I still remember. Jervul was just out of the nest back then. Such a strange place, it is, too. One moment, the sun is blazing your eyeballs dry and the next, a huge sandstorm blows up, obliterating the world in a haze. (in a hushed voice) Then, when it’s over, everything is different. Where huge sand dunes once stood, the storm has scraped the ground clean, revealing an ancient city, just filled with cool, dark chambers.”
(Gruffly) "You doubt me, Jervul? Many wouldn’t have the courage to do so. Few have seen me and lived to tell the tale. (chuckles) If you’re not careful, one day your brash ignorance just might get
you into trouble.”
A crafty and inventive Taran spider, Ishmar is noted for his stealth and tactics. His light tan body blends in almost perfectly into the desert or light-colored beach sands and he frequently catches his prey before they even realize he’s there. He adores eating fish and eel, but is not above hunting other game for the sport of it. His voice should be of medium range and he speaks somewhat softly, again adhering to his credo of being unobserved until it is too late.
“While Cretin or Vershir may conquer with their strength, I prefer a slightly different approach. There is no dishonor in utilizing stealth and tactics to best advantage.”
(scoffs) "Ha! I dislike the desert. It’s too hot and unforgiving for my tastes. I’d much rather dabble by the sea. (sighs dreamily) There, the sands are delightfully wet and cool and the tidal pools hide hundreds of creatures! Every day, the ocean serves up a virtual banquet. We have only to venture out and eat our fill!”
Lolly’s friend, Una, is young and intelligent. She somewhat plays the straight lady to Lolly’s giddy personality. Una is definitely a home body. Lolly almost has to pry Una from her father’s manor to go shopping or out to see the sights of the city. Her voice is of medium range.
“Lolly, you must be out of your mind! You never heard or saw this – this Nicholas before today. How can you possibly be in love with him? You’re babbling like an infatuated little girl!”
“You can’t go with him! What would your father say? You know the law. Until you’re of age, you must have his permission to leave Shandrizor. (pause) I realize you’re the adventurous type, but listen to reason. What if you are caught?”
Haroon is a cunning slave trader, working for the Shah of Shandrizor. The Shah is constantly looking to augment his harem and Haroon willingly does his master’s bidding. To get what he wants, Haroon pits forces against each other, deals under the table, and even resorts to kidnapping. He commands a small group of Shandrizor soldiers specifically assigned to him by the Shah. Haroon is slimy and snakelike. His voice should be mature, but with a breathy quality to it.
(excitedly) "Just look at them, Lykash! Have you ever seen the like? Lush, delectable creatures with long black tails, females with hair of flame, and some with eyes that glow like a blazing fire. Ah ha! The Shah will pay dearly to have such slaves as a part of his harem!”
(chuckling evilly) "I’m afraid that you don’t understand. EVERYTHING within the city of Shandrizor belongs to the Shah. From the moment your little group passed beneath the city gates, your carriages, wagons, soldiers – and yes, even your women – all technically became his property. You may be able to pay for some of the items and continue your journey. However, I’m afraid that the only way the Shah will relinquish the women is if someone has a prior claim. (demanding) Now, can any of you say that?”
This holy man is very old and respected among the people of Shandrizor. Wovaroo has a long white beard and moustache and perceptive gray eyes. Wovaroo wears a piece of Ovaak, the Taran’s, mandible on a chain around his neck, to remind him of the warrior's life he chose to leave behind. Wovaroo wants to see a dragon before he dies, but as these creatures are all but extinct, he realizes that’s nearly impossible. Confined by the rules of the Shah, Wovaroo still tries to do what is right for the people. His voice should have a somewhat feeble quality to it, since Wovaroo is rumored to be well over one hundred years old.
(sadly) "I’m sorry, my lady. However, my hands are somewhat tied in this matter. All within the city of Shandrizor adhere to the Shah’s commands. (sighs) Even I. Although my heart may yearn for adventure, I’ve chosen to live within these walls as a holy man, to help the people living here in any way that I can. If I break the Shah’s laws, I will be banished or imprisoned. So, you see, unless you can give me some reason why I should perform these marriages, I must refuse.”
(in a hushed, dreamy voice) "When I was much younger, I used to dream of being a great warrior, of besting countless foes in the heat of battle. I was fortunate. By the grace of the Gods, that dream was realized. However, one point continues to elude me. (chuckling) You may think it just the foolish wish of an old man, but before I die, I wish that somehow, I might see and perhaps even touch, a real dragon. (pause) Oh, I know it’s ridiculous. Dragons have been extinct for hundreds of
years. Still, I never gave up wishing, hoping.”
Navash is a young soldier, eager to do the Shah’s will. When he was recruited, however, he didn’t realize that the monarch intended him not for the glory of battle, but to be used as an instrument in the slave trade. Reluctantly, he does Haroon’s bidding, but he is sometimes horrified at what he is ordered to do.
(angrily) "Why do you follow him, Garmak? Haroon is a cunning trickster. Those innocents the Shah does not want for his harem are quickly sold to the highest bidder. It could be my sister out there. Or yours! What would you do then?”
(in a hushed voice) "Shhhh! We will have to move swiftly! Haroon seems to have eyes in the back of his head and the otherswon’t be of any help. Garmak simply obeys orders and Bikaar does little but
lick his boots. Are you certain all is in readiness? We must be far enough into the desert that the Shah’s soldiers will not pursue us.”
Garmak is a coldly efficient soldier for the Shah of Shandrizor. He doesn’t allow himself to think or feel for the plight of the slaves Haroon rounds up for the Shah. Garmak has no dreams of glory. He does his job, but no more. His voice should be slightly below mid-range and reflect his middle age.
(angrily) "You are weak, Navash! You actually feel for these people – these Lustrians - don’t you? I can see it in your eyes. Bah! Trust me. This will lead to nothing but tragedy.”
“I do my job and in that, I am content. I eat well and usually have a sound roof over my head. Occasionally, I even indulge in a good tankard of ale or two. What else is there in life, Navash?”
Bikaar became a soldier for the great Shah of Shandrizor, because he loved the challenge of a fight. The slave trade isn’t exactly what he was hoping for. Still, he revels in the human conflict of the slaves. Bikaar hopes that by excelling as a soldier, Haroon might recommend him to the Shah for bigger and better assignments. So, Bikaar massages Haroon’s ego whenever he has the opportunity.
(excitedly, laying praise on thickly) "What an excellent idea, my lord! With any luck, the Lustrians won’t realize what’s happening until the trap has been sprung. Ah ha! Such a clever idea! I’m
sure that the Shah will be pleased with your selections. Fine prizes such as these will no doubt result in a considerable reward, hmmm?”
“I have a plan, Navash. If I do as Haroon asks, one day, the Shah may notice me. He’ll recognize me for my loyalty and reward me for all of the choice slaves I’ve helped to send his way. The Shah can be VERY generous, Navash. Suddenly, I could be a soldier no longer. Why, I might even own one of the manors at the edge of the city. Then, my friend, I might just select a few of these “prizes” for my own harem, hmmmm? (laughs) Just think of it!”
This large blue female Taran spider is one of Queen Morda’s elite warriors. Yasak is wily and persistent, but in constant conflict with the other Tarans, especially Hilgarria. One day, Yasak hopes to gain the Queen’s favor and become a commander in her own right.
(Disgusted) “Oh! You three grumble and complain like spiderlings. If Queen Morda heard any of this, she would remove you from the army immediately.”
“Personally, I prefer a night attack or perhaps one at twilight. (pause, then in a hushed voice) When the light fades, I merge into the shadows, becoming one with the darkness. (chuckles) Death comes swiftly to any who venture near.”
Hilgarria is the largest of the female Taran spiders, with a leg span of over eight feet. If her bright colors were not enough of a warning, she also tends to hiss through her mandibles.
(laughs evilly) “Go ahead, Yasak. Your pursuit of the Queen’s favor has made you foolish. When they sever the head from your body, I shall happily take your place.”
(scoffs) “Ha! You make more noise than a clay pot falling down the steps, Talos. The direct approach may have its place, but I prefer a slightly different angle.”
Irina’s companion, Maddy Featherstone, does what she can to curtail her headstrong charge, but at times it seems all but impossible. Maddy is charged with delivering Irina to her aunt on the beautiful island of Krystalia.
(frustrated) “Really, Irina! Your manners. I shudder to think what your father would think if he saw you behaving in such a manner. (sigh) Perhaps your Aunt Lillian can talk some sense into you. Goodness knows, someone needs to curb this streak of wildness running within you!”
(aghast) “You SPOKE to them? And without a proper introduction? We know nothing about these strangers, these – these elves and dwarves. I suppose some aren’t so bad. A few have at least made
a passing nod toward fashion, but the rest of them – Oh! This simply will not do! Until we reach Krystalia, we shall remain in our cabin.”
Irina is the cherished, beautiful daughter of an Arstadt merchant. Unfortunately, Irina was raised with a silver spoon in her mouth and is now very self-centered and condescending. She views the arrival of the dwarves and elves as an exciting diversion.
(chuckling with delight) “Oh, Maddy. You don’t understand. Father may think he’s punishing me by shipping me off to Aunt Lillian’s, but he hasn’t injured me at all. Arstadt is dead. Lifeless! There hasn’t been a decent party or musicale in weeks. Now, at least I can have a REAL adventure!”
(pouting) “I’m not going back, you know. Why should I return to that dreary old house where nothing ever happens? Ever since Andrew went off to school, I’m the only one in residence under the age of thirty. It’s not fair!”
Arvana is a stunningly beautiful enchantress, hiding in anonymity. Disguising her loveliness and great powers beneath a dark cloak, Arvana is Merdin’s dear friend, a bastion in the north against all of those who seek to do evil.
“I mean you no harm, your majesties. The kiss of Merdin’s great wisdom is already upon you. I merely assist you on your way.”
“The seas harbor their share of demons, Princess Cecily, but have no fear. Ours shall be a safe crossing. The captain is skilled and experienced.”
T.K. Reese is a mature sailor on the ship Pelican. T.K.’s initials stand for twice keel hauled and some suspect he’s a former pirate. His scarred face and back bear the evidence of a far different way of life.
“Now, watch closely, Dibbs. The end comes in from here, goes around and then loops back the other way again. See? Then you pull it taut. Ah ha! That’s a sheet bend. I’ll pull it out and then you can try it. All right?”
(suspiciously) “I don’t know about these passengers, Cap’n. By the Gods, they’re elves and dwarves! Have you ever seen the like? (chuckles) Aye. And some of them be female, too. You KNOW how I feel about that. ‘Tis bad luck to have any female on board and that’s a fact! (pause) The sooner we off load them at Krystalia, the better. That’s what I say.”
Pippi is an Arstadt street urchin, a child who sneaks aboard the Pelican when she sets sail. Dibbs does his best to hide her, but the truth finally comes out. A Cockney accent would be perfect for Pippi.
(emphatically) “I didn’t mean anything by it. I swear! I just saw all of those lovely supplies being
brought on board and I thought – well, I thought – I hadn’t eaten in two days and I was getting a mite dizzy, you see? So, I drank some of the water and ate a little. Then I was so tired, I just fell asleep on some of the ropes. When I woke up again, we were already at sea. It was too late to go back on shore. (desperately) Please, let me stay, guvnor! I promise I won’t be no trouble at all.”
“You’re a good one, Mr. Dibbs, and that’s a fact. I never had nobody take care of me the way you do. It’s kind of nice. So, anything you want – anything at all – you just say the word, and I’ll be there!”
Dibbs is the Cabin boy aboard the ship Pelican, which is purchased to carry the elves and some of the dwarves to Krystalia. Dibbs is enthusiastic and curious about everything. Unfortunately, his curiosity sometimes gets him into trouble.
“Captain Bainbridge – you’ll like him. He might be a little strange at times, but at least he’s fair. Some of the crew say he used to be a pirate, but don’t you believe it. He’s true blue!”
(excitedly) “It could work! You and I are about the same size. Put you in my clothes and stuff your hair into a cap and no one would know the better. Just keep your head down and kind of mumble
if anyone speaks to you. (chuckles) Everyone will think they’re seeing double!”
Orrid is the First Mate aboard the ship Excelsior, one of the vessels purchased to take the elves and some of the dwarves to Krystalia. He is a crisp sailor, tall and accomplished. Orrid likes everything by the book.
“Belay that, Mister! Man your post on the double. We’ll run a tight schedule as usual. (pause) Let’s keep a sharp eye out, Mr. Billingsley!”
(in a hushed voice) “You know I would never think of saying this in front of the men, Captain, but – forgive me, sir, but have you taken leave of your senses? These “unique” passengers are obviously running from something. If we grant them passage to Krystalia, might we be inviting a certain measure of sorrow upon ourselves as well?”
Elderly produce vendor in the city of Arstadt. No one knows where Grendel came from or exactly how old she might be. Her face is heavily lined with age and her hands gnarled with toil. Still, the spark of life within her eyes hints at a mysterious past. Her voice should be a little frail and gravelly.
“Ah ah! And just where do you think you’re going with that, missy? It’s a fine dama fruit to be sure and worth at least a quarter virok. Give me your coin and I’ll wrap it up for you. (pause, then sadly) Oh, I see. You haven’t got any, do you, lass? It’s Pippi, isn’t it? Hmmm. I thought I recognized you. (sigh) Oh, very well. Take it and be off with you. (now firmly) But mind you, no more until Saturday next!”
“To sea? Ha! (chuckles) There was a time when I would have rejoiced in those words and happily joined you, Pippi. (now sadly) I’m sorry, lass, but I can’t go with you this time. I’m afraid that these old bones would never make the crossing.”
As the dashing Captain of the sleek ship Pelican, Captain Zeb Bainbridge has certainly seen his share of action. Some suspect that he might have been a pirate, but no one has the courage to challenge him to his face. A Spanish accent would be in order for Zeb.
“Away all lines, Mr. Reese! Let’s catch the wind while we may. Mr. McCormack! (pause) Dibbs! (pause) Dibbs? (sigh) Blast it! Where is that boy?”
(smoothly) "I would, of course, normally surrender my cabin as suitable accommodations during our voyage. However, as I am at the moment, SHARING my cabin, that would present a bit of a predicament. I trust that you understand, my lady?”
Captain Harrington is a seasoned officer with many years behind the mast. He’s probably nearing retirement, but can’t seem to break himself away from his beloved vessel. He has a great sense of humor and his experience makes him somewhat patient and tolerant.
“A dragon, you say? By thunder, that’s a good one, eh? Ha! We’ll have to mark that one down in the log, Mr. Wheeling. (chuckles) What a fine joke. (pause) It is a joke, of course? But I – (gasp) it can’t be. A dragon. A scaly, fire breathing, claw footed dragon aboard my ship?”
“I don’t expect any confrontations with the pirates, your Highness, but one can never be certain. Those wily devils have given us some trouble in the past. Still, it’s been relatively quiet of late. Let’s hope that it remains that way, eh?”
Long ago, Amal, the High Priestess of the ancient city of Kahat, declared that she was more beautiful than the powerful goddess Ishirra. Ishirra responded in anger, obliterating Amal’s lovely face and body and leaving nothing behind but her spirit. Now, the angry Amal erupts across the Desert of Miramoor as a storm of cutting sand crystals and pulsing energy. Howling in agony, Amal wipes the desert clean.
(Remembering in a hushed voice) “Once, I was more lovely than the fairest of all maidens. (now growing in enthusiasm) Kings and princes came to Kahat from great distances just to see my face and perhaps speak with me. The temple coffers overflowed with gold and jewels, rare spices and fragrant wood. (now saddened) But then, one terrible night, I declared my beauty to the great goddess Ishirra. In her anger, she struck me down, then scraped away all flesh and bone until there was nothing left but my spirit. And, as a spirit, I am condemned to abide in this place, a prisoner of the past, with no hope, no future.”
“These strangers upset the balance of existence. (excitedly) Perhaps, with their arrival, there may be a chance that at last, I can go free!”
Sophia is a skilled swordswoman and accomplished with the axe as well. Her family was tricked by Lennix and she fights for the evil sorcerer so that her mother, father, and siblings may live free. She’s hoping that one day, Lennix may promote her to Commander. Then she can make a few of her own rules.
(firmly, scoffing) “You’ll never survive here, Augie! You’re like an excited little pup out on her first
adventure. This isn’t a game or a lark. It’s war! It’s blood, horror and death at every turn. The only way to survive is to keep yourself closed off. Never allow any of it inside. Never allow yourself to feel.”
“I made a Devil’s bargain with Lennix and I’m obliged to keep it. (chuckles ruefully) At least ONE of us should keep his promises.”
Augie is an enthusiastic recruit from one of the remote villages. As a village maid, Augie could look forward to an expected life of marriage and children. However, as one of Lennix’s chosen soldiers, she feels she may have a chance for greatness.
“What choice did I have, Sophia? I am the simple daughter of a goat herder and a weaver. All I had to look forward to was a life of toil as a wife and then a mother. I never expected to leave my village my entire life! Now, at least, I have a chance!”
“How can you be so cold? If things were different, I could be walking among them. Would you smite me, as well? Would you cut me down, too?”
Petros is an experienced warrior. Once a slave, Lennix found Petros in a marketplace, fighting all comers for the opportunity to remain alive. Although Petros may not agree with all of Lennix’s directives, he cannot ignore the fact that the sorcerer plucked him from obscurity and gave him a chance at a much better life.
“You don’t know what it was like, Talos. We traveled from village to village, putting on a show wherever there were villagers with enough coin to make a decent profit. The men paid for the
chance to go into the ring with me and I fought them. All of them. Some lived and some died. But it
was never enough.”
(in a hushed voice) “Do you think I support what Lennix does? Do you really believe I could be that cruel and heartless? Lennix never confines himself to warriors and soldiers. He kills innocent women and children, too. What kind of a monster does that?!”
Talos is a giant with a shaved head. At his belt, he carries with him the manacles he once wore as a slave. When Lennix pulled Talos from the arena, Talos swore his allegiance to the evil sorcerer for all time. So, Talos has blinders on, refusing to acknowledge how evil his master truly is.
“You are too weak, Petros. Not here, with your sword and shield, but inside. You cannot allow yourself to think and feel. You and I – we owe Lennix our lives! I, for one, cannot forget that. Neither should you!”
(in a hushed voice) “I had a life once. (chuckles) I know. It doesn’t seem possible, but it’s true. I had a wife and two fine sons. They were my pride and joy! Then the black fever came. I watched each one die while I held them in my arms. In the end, I had nothing left to live for. I allowed the crops to die in the fields. When I couldn’t pay my debts, they threw me into the arena. I guess they thought I would probably die that first day, but I did not. That is where Lennix found me. So, if he orders me to do these terrible things, who am I to judge?”
Danelas is a young, vigorous elf and one of the finest archers in the elf clan. He has long blond hair and wears a cloak marked with green accents. Danelas has lightning quick reflexes and is frequently at the very heart of a battle. He is proud and refined, with a smooth, cultured voice.
(warning) “It could be a trap, your Majesty! Herod might wait for us to get out into the open and then turn his army against us.”
(sadly) “Sometimes, I DO miss our home in Arna. It was so green, so quiet and peaceful there. Nothing like this. (chuckles) Now, we set our hopes upon the wind, praying that this ship reaches Krystalia before another adversary confronts us.”
Silvertooth is a middle-aged pirate, who fought his way up through the ranks battle by battle. His face is heavily scarred and half of his teeth are now missing. He is especially proud of his large silver tooth, which winks prominently from his gaping maw. Silvertooth’s voice should declare his age, perhaps being a little scratchy or gravelly.
(eagerly) “To be sure, Capn! When have I ever steered you wrong? The treasure be there, just as I said. All we have to do is toss the passengers over the side, heave to, and go get it.”
(suspiciously glaring at Dibbs) “What are you looking at, boy? It’s my silver tooth isn’t it? Well, you can’t have it! I paid a king’s ransom to have that cast and I’m not about to part with it that easily. So, you can – you can just be putting that out of your mind right now, lad!”
Gregori is the heir apparent of the Renaldi coven in the south of Lustrias. He is very smooth and suave, confident beyond measure. The Renaldis are rich and powerful – as well as being very deadly. Think of Interview with a Vampire and you’ll be right on target.
“These intruders – these Lustrians are strange to us. We know nothing about them or what their motivation might be. (scoffs) I, for one, don’t wish to wait to find out!”
(vampire hiss) “Think well before you strike, you black dog! Harm me and you will bring my father and the entire Renaldi coven down upon your head. When they have finished, there will be nothing left of your precious friends. Is your life worth so much that you would sacrifice them?”
The Royal Guard (Dwarf) is fiercely loyal to King Herod, and takes his position very seriously. He is built like the dwarf-sized center for a football team and should have a deep, powerful voice worthy of his size. A Scottish accent would definitely be preferred here.
“Apparently, while we were attempting to sneak up on King Khardas and the elves, we were being hunted ourselves, Great One.”
“It will take at least a day to warn those at the farthest corners of the kingdom. By that time, the enemy will be at the entrance to the caverns. We must form some suitable defense!”
Sir Gullet is the right-hand man of Captain Orangebeard. Friends since childhood, these two frequently agree to disagree. Nevertheless, if one of them is really in trouble, the other will come to the rescue immediately. Sir Gullet is middle aged. He has some sense of style and wears a long, flaming red coat and a hat with a black feather stuck into the hat band. If he had not gone to sea, Sir Gullet probably would have been the lord of the manor, managing an estate and providing for dozens of people. His voice should be cultured, hinting at his education. An accent would be good here, if someone would like to try that – English, French, Spanish, Italian, Eastern European. Give it a go!
(angrily) “You do not understand the gravity of the situation, Captain. The ship will continue to take on water until the leak is repaired. We MUST leave the battle and turn back now!”
(in a hushed voice) “By all the Gods, Orangebeard, what were you thinking? These strangers are ignorant of the balance of power here, but you are NOT! If we turn against the Black Isle pirates, there’s no going back. Those devils have long memories and a thirst for revenge!”
The eleventh king of Arna, King Khardas is a direct descendant of King Xavier Khardas, the most famous elven king ever to exist in Mystar. King Khardas is a burly man, who forgot to watch the sweets after the goblin wars died down and the sons came along. He now is 6' 3" and pushing 360 lbs! Khardas was, is, and always will be, a warrior. That instinct and centuries of ambushes have taught him always to be on his guard and have a plan of attack. Still, when not waging war, Khardas is a bit of a softie. His daughter, Cecily, definitely has Khardas wrapped around her little finger. He also enjoys bathing, and can't wait to sink into a hot bath or natural hot spring. King Khardas is all about comfort and having fun, and is known for his practical jokes and pranks. Khardas should have a cultured English accent.
(aghast, firmly) ”Black magic! I never taught you that, Cecily! You must stop this immediately.”
(chuckles) “What a bloodthirsty little thing you are! For the moment, we may be making some headway. However, Havok’s forces are very strong. There are thousands of goblins on that hill and we can’t hold them back forever. (now, firmly) Now, I want you to stop this black magic at once and take cover! What would your mother say if she could see you now?”
The most powerful wizard in the entire world of Mystar, and the second oldest living being. Merdin has a knowledge of magic, life, and love that far surpasses everyone around him. His only equal, if there was one, is Gwendolyn. Not much is known of Merdin's true origin. Some say he is a Seraphim born into a human body. Others say he is the eternal spirit of Mystar itself. His journey is truly legendary, as he appears to have been present at almost every major event in the world's history. Merdin is going to be a lot of fun for the right guy. He must have an older, unique timbre to his voice. Think of the original Albus Dumbledore from Harry Potter, and you'll be getting pretty close. We don't really have an accent in mind for him, but we have a feeling you might want to try a British or Scottish accent.
(fiercely) “I fight on the side of right, on the side of freedom, Havok! I stand with the elves and dwarves.”
“I’m sorry, but these are dangerous times. I’m afraid that I am needed elsewhere. (then with hope, fondly) Be at peace, my old friends. And thank you. When the time comes, rest assured that we shall see each other again. Until then, I bid you farewell.”
Bridonna Wellista is a young maid living in Renaldi Castle, the stronghold of the vampires in southern Lustrias. Bridonna has long brown hair, which she keeps braided and carefully out of the way. Although the Renaldis may think she’s a shy meek girl, they shall soon learn how courageous she can become when the need calls for it.
(proudly, to the suspicious Sir Killian) “Who wouldn’t be a little nervous living in a castle full of vampires my lord?”
(desperately) “I would explain, but I don’t think we have the luxury of time. Gunter, I came to warn you and your family. The Renaldis are coming!”
“No time! I must return to Renaldi Castle before I am missed. Even now, it may be too late. Hurry my young friend, and may the Gods be with you!”
