Because of the caste system and breeding program, there is a definite correlation between caste and character development points. The following general guideline may be used for character creation and as a gauge of sorts for possible caste advancement. This outline is not intended to indicate that every individual within a caste will conform to these point totals.
Slaves - 60 to 300 Workers - 80 to 160 Craftsmen - 100 to 200 Builder - 120 to 240 Warrior - 140 to 400 Scholar - 160 to 400 Sacred - 200 to 500 Ruling - 400 & higher
At about 400 points, characters reach the time in their careers when they can ascribe to the ruling class. Those who rise above 400 points without belonging to the ruling class are quickly seen as too dangerous to be left to their own devices. Slaves usually have less than 100 points, but there are a few who may be as high as 300 points. Captives are almost never taken that have less than 60 development points.
Starting characters for this game may be generated using 160 development points. Additionally, up to 30 points of disadvantages may be taken to gain extra development points. As always, the game master will exercise veto authority over any disadvantages that would disrupt the intended story-line. The 160 point limitation will mean that the character's status within his/her caste at the start of play will be determined by the caste chosen. In other words, if you choose the craftsman caste, you will be a journeyman level within your caste. If you choose the builder caste, you will be experienced at your craft, but less than a journeyman. If you choose the warrior caste, you will have some experience, but will be low in rank. Finally, if you choose the scholar caste, you will be a student or apprentice mage.
Some Helpful Hints
The opening sessions of this game will definitely involve combat, so make sure that your character has some decent combat skills. Atlanteans travel extensively, most often by sea. Adventuring Atlanteans often have to deal with pirates on the high seas and hostile tribal peoples on land. Loyalty to Atlantis and its rulers is expected and highly valued. Rebellious and reckless individuals don't normally survive well in this culture. The use of captives and criminals as slaves is considered a justifiable and necessary institution by almost all Atlanteans. The behavior of students is closely monitored in this culture. Any Atlantean of your own caste or higher can challenge you to trial by combat for "cause". This challenge has to be approved by at least one member of the ruling caste to establish "cause". The person being challenged has the right to choose the weapons to be used (both use the same weapons). Most such contests are to "first blood", but they may be fought to the death if the cause is great enough. In such a case, a ruling caste member must approve "great cause".
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