FAQ
Q: Tell us a little about Bloodstone Brethren. What prompted you to found the clan, and how has it grown since?Ulfer [IC]: A little bit? Are ya in a rush to be gettin somewhere 'o what eh lad? A Dwarf ne'ar rush through any tale, especially one 'o Bloodstone Brethren. Now 'ave a seat 'n listen up, ye might learn somethin'...
Ulfer [OOC]: Bloodstone Brethren was formed in March 2008 in game, we are a Dwarf-only clan which focuses on the PvP and RP aspects of the game. The clan was originally founded for Dwarf players, but over the months has narrowed its focus to cater to Dwarf enthusiasts who enjoy PvP and/or RP. Some may wonder what the difference is between Dwarf players and Dwarf enthusiast. Well, a Dwarf player is by definition someone who plays a Dwarf "Got a beard and a pulse? Great, you're in!" That's not what we're about. Dwarf enthusiasts on the other hand are people who always pick Dwarfs as their main characters, rarely, if ever, play other races. Generally Dwarfs are stubborn, loyal, and mature. That's what we're about.
Q: What sort of role system do you have within your clan?Ulfer [IC]: *Stares blankly at the tankard-less table in front of him and grudgingly answers*Ulfer [OOC]: We have one Sovereign (Guild Leader - Me!) who sets the direction for the clan and ensures that the goals stated are met. Elders, depends on the size of the clan, are named to work closely with Oath Takers and provide counsel to the Sovereign. Other experienced members are promoted to the role of Guardian (Group Leader) which train with duelers in fighting, and move the Bloodstone fighting force around during large scale events. Those are leadership positions, special titles given to those deemed suitable by the Sovereign.
We also have other function-specific positions to help run the clan, these include, Blacksmiths, Clerics, Lore Masters, Warriors, and Metallurgists. Lastly, we have a points system based on the recognition of accomplishments such as becoming a full member, hitting maximum level, or achieving set tasks.
Q: Can you discuss your application process?
Ulfer [IC]: I suppose, but it be customary to buy a drink after every question. By my count yer about two drinks behind, three if ya be countn' this quesiton. Since ye obviously unaware of this long-standin Dwarf tavern tradition, I'll answer, but ye better have a frothy tankard ready 'fore ya ask yer next one!Ulfer [OOC]: Our application is not too lengthy though prospective members are seriously considered.
Anyways, if the Dwarf is seen, in game, to be a good mature person, with some RP knowledge, then the person in question is invited into the clan to begin their trial period. Oath Taker is then given access to some of our membership forums.
The trial period concludes for all Oath Takers at the end of their week at which time our Guild holds a vote on prospective members. The Sovereign and the Elders can vote "AYE," "NAY" or "WHO?" vote is the same thing as saying "I never got to know this applicant." This vote is based on in-game activity and general attitude and behavior. Get more WHO votes then AYE votes and you're out with no chance to re-apply (basically less than 50% AYE votes means expulsion) So, it pays to be active during your trial period. Now, if you get one NAY vote, then you're out with no chance to re-apply... you'd probably also have your beard shaved... just kidding.
Q: No doubt the qualities you value in applicants also reflect the qualities of the clan as a whole. What are they?Ulfer [IC]: *Takes a long series of gulps from the tankard presented before him and wipes the foam from his mustache"Good, ye be rememberin the long-standing Dwarf tavern tradition. See? Yer learnin somethin' after all!
Ulfer [OOC]: We value Dwarf roleplaying, maturity, teamwork and PvP. An applicant's values should be in line with our own as we're not likely to change them anytime soon. If you show characteristics that lend themselves to the above values then we probably want you as a member.
Q: What's your stance on training? Do you require members to conform to certain uniforms or skills?Ulfer [IC]: Why, the same thing you'd expect from any proper Dwarf unit 'o course! Expect us to be tough, stubborn, fearless and grudge-filled.
Ulfer [OOC]: All Members wear the Mercenary Helm, only the leadership titles have earned the right to wear the horns of the Battle Helm or members who have accomplished every task asked of them. The horns signify strength within the clan, resembling true Dwarfs of Bloodstone, so must only be worn by those who can demonstrate its importance through skill and title. As for armor, it is not so much an issue - clad in whatever you wish, however, some titles require training in certain armors to ensure the most efficient and best course is reached in terms of combat.
As for training in general, the tasks deemed for certain titles is for guidance only, it's voluntary, as mentioned, to ensure you are getting the most out of your chosen role within the clan. Fortunately we don't have to force our members to pick certain skills or titles. Our members want to be successful in whatever we do and I've found that every single member of our clan always ends up picking the best combinations for what our clan goals are without any pressure from the Sovereign.
Q: What's your stance on "Alternate Characters?"Ulfer [IC]: Alternate Characters? What in the name of Laanx are you blabbering about!? If you hear voices in that head 'o yours that's your business! I'll stick to the company of others, thanks...Ulfer [OOC]: Hmm... Alt Characters are a No. Playing Alt Characters along side your Dwarf character is a no, and definite, no, to multiple account mining - if you join Bloodstone Brethren it is as a committed Dwarf and training other characters, as far as I am concerned, it's not only cheating, but a waste of tria, time, and resources (and of course against PS rules.) However, alt characters are allowed for questing to obtain rewards you've previously lost, or perhaps a quest was bugged? Also, alt characters can be used as "mules" to carry certain equipment. I'd prefer if this was limited as much as possible.