Introduction
Between Event Actions (BEAs) are an incredible tool to enrich your character’s story and to engage with the plot and our Game Managers (GMs) in meaningful ways. By using BEAs, you can take part in activities that wouldn't be feasible during a weekend event, such as conducting in-depth research, fortifying a city (building walls) or traveling to distant locations. These actions allow your character to develop and contribute to the ongoing storylines even between our gatherings.
What Are Between Event Actions?
Between Event Actions are opportunities for your character to take actions between events that require more time or are difficult to perform during a typical game weekend. Examples include:
- Researching a Forgotten Topic: Dive into the archives to learn more about a mysterious event or artifact.
- Building or Repairing Items: Work on creating an elaborate artifact or repairing something that broke during the last event. (This would not be a part of the normal crafting system, but perhaps the wall surrounding a city collapsed, or the hull of a ship has a hole.)
- Traveling to Distant Lands: Maybe your character wants to seek out an expert or a rumored location that could aid in an upcoming storyline.
Note: BEAs are reviewed outside of regular events, and the GMs do their best to address each one, but they are considered an "above and beyond" part of the game. Players should be aware that these actions are not guaranteed and should not feel disappointed if a response is not always provided.
Guidelines for Submitting a BEA
When considering a BEA, make sure to include the following information to help our Plot Team address your request effectively:
- What Are You Doing?
Describe your action clearly. Be specific about your goal and how you intend to achieve it. - Who Is Accompanying You?
If other characters are joining you, mention their names (and make sure they are aware of it!). - What Skills Are You Using?
Highlight any skills your character has that could contribute to the success of the action. This helps us understand what your character brings to the table. - Special Considerations
Let us know if there are any special circumstances, like particular dangers or resources that could affect the outcome.
Examples of Effective BEAs
Here are some examples of BEAs that would be a great addition to your character’s journey:
- Investigation Following an Event
“Last event, we encountered the strange artifact known as the 'Whispering Mirror.' I want to travel to [PLACE] to speak with scholars about its origin and possible uses. I’m taking [CHARACTER] along because they have experience with magical relics.” - Character Development and Long-Term Goals
“My character has always dreamed of sailing the high seas. I want to head to the coastal city of [PLACE] and see if there are any opportunities to work on a ship. I’ll speak to the dockmasters and try to secure passage to learn more about life at sea.” - Preparation for Future Challenges
“Since we learned that a dangerous cult is planning something in [PLACE], I’d like to prepare by researching their rituals. I’ll head to the local library and try to gather information to share with the group.” - Learning New Skills
“I heard about a blacksmith in [PLACE] renowned for their skill in creating enchanted armor. I want to travel there to study under them and learn about their techniques. I’ll use my experience as a smith to show my value and gain permission to observe their work.” - Assisting a Community
“After seeing the devastation in [VILLAGE] during the last event, I wish to travel back to help them rebuild. Using my skills in carpentry, I will offer my assistance in reconstructing homes and structures. I will also talk to the villagers to gather more information about their experiences to see if we can protect them better in the future.”
These examples not only provide actions that directly relate to previous events but also give insight into your character’s personal goals, allowing the Plot Team to weave these threads into future storylines.
A Bad Example of a BEA
To help clarify what not to do, here's an example of a bad BEA submission:
- “I want to break into the enemy’s camp and steal their leader’s magical staff to weaken them before the next event.”
Why This Is a Bad Example:
- Combat/Confrontation: BEAs are not intended for raiding or offensive actions that would typically lead to combat. This type of action should be done during an event when others can participate.
- Too Ambitious: The scope of this action is too large and would have major plot implications, affecting many characters.
- Lack of Details: There is no explanation of how the character plans to achieve this, what skills they will use, or what risks they anticipate.
Instead, consider breaking it down into more manageable, character-focused steps, such as researching the enemy camp’s defenses or seeking out a map of the area to prepare for a future event.
How BEAs Can Enrich the Game Experience
Using BEAs effectively can have many benefits:
- Developing Your Character’s Backstory
This is a perfect way to explore aspects of your character’s past, personality, and goals. The more we know about your character, the more opportunities we can provide for their story. - Engaging with the Plot
By using a BEA to investigate or follow up on event happenings, you help create continuity in the story, making future events even more engaging for everyone. - Building Relationships
Including other characters in your BEAs is an excellent way to develop in-game relationships. It helps establish bonds, rivalries, or alliances that make the game world richer.
Conclusion
Between Event Actions are a valuable way for you to get involved with the story outside of event weekends. Whether you're pursuing a personal goal, researching a plot element, or preparing for an upcoming threat, BEAs help your character grow and the overall story deepen. Be sure to think through your actions carefully, submit your form on time, and enjoy the opportunity to engage with the ongoing story of Veil of Ashes!
To Submit your Between Event Action, Click here!
