Author Archive: frodog28
Joseph Trahan – 30 Characters 2013
A bit late on the summary, but here are my 2013 stats: 10 ladies, 20 guys (same as last year… hmmm…). Just 5 of the anthropomorphic animal-types (including the fire salamander), and (arguably) 12 normal-looking human characters. I was able keep all 30 in a contained fantasy story this year, including 10 avatar characters. My secret theme this year was martial arts characters of which there were 5 (karate or kung fu), and one afro kid who’s moving his arms like tai chi.
My goal for this year was to keep it all in that one world, and I drew a lot of my inspiration from playing Magic the Gathering with my friends, or playing Diablo with my girlfriend. Thanks everyone for the help, patience and inspiration.
Day 28, 29, 30: Summoner Jay and his Elementals
Jay was most talented summoner in the academy. While his peers struggled to call on basic globs of water and floating flames, he was creating wurms and drakes from bizarre combinations of material. For him, the skill is almost automatic, his mood flooding into these strangely intelligent creatures.
Jay’s Pitchfire Lurker is a creepy little character. It comes from the black ashes and smoldering goo at the bottom of flames recently died. It sulks around angrily, then flares up into fiery anger at unexpected moments.
Jay’s Bramblethorn Guardian is a bizzare creature. It bulges with entangled stones and scratchy thorns, and does not respond to beck or call. But when Jay or his friends are in trouble, it becomes frighteningly protective and charges into danger without hesitation.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 27: Genius Schnazz
In New Gaius, goblins run in great packs. Usually they pester everyone, looting human refugee camps, setting fires, pouncing on bands of grey wanderers, starting wars for fun. They don’t have much reason or order to their mischief making. One lone goblin, Schnazz, is both blessed and cursed. He can speak magical words to put the light of the sun in a single stone, or slow time to give himself a moment to think. Other goblins look to him to put some method to their madness, humans have learned to trust him to lend words of wisdom. Either way, he is tired of being smarter than everyone around him, and tired of no one taking his advice as he wishes they would.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 26: Kat Black
Some people call her bad luck. Some people call her moody, with her dark looks and her haughty strut. But Kat Black moves with cool confidence and grace. Let them think what they want of her, she likes to keep them guessing, and hatch her quiet plans from behind those clever eyes.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 25: The Sphinx of the Sea
“I go out once a day and come in once a day, but no matter what I am always waving. What am I?” The Sphinx of the Sea holds many riddles, and if you can answer her inquiries she may share with you the mysteries of the deep sea.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 24: Dream Catcher
The Grey often attack people, young and old, by driving them mad through their dreams. The mysterious man known only as the Dream Catcher has discovered a way to combat this insidious threat. Just like the Grey, he hunts at night, leaping across roof tops and clambering fire escapes. As he stands guard over the sleeping, he can exorcise nightmares, conjure them into real, physical monstrosities, and then he battles them. His fights are brutal, and he finds himself frequently in great peril, but he will not rest, and he will not quit.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 23: The Recruiter
If we are going to have a chance against the Grey, we need to build an army. And who better to wield our weapons of destruction, massive and small, than the energetic young? The teens who, before the Grey invasion, showed such promise in their electronic games and computerized simulations? And what of the boys… no, young men… just barely elbow high? Such energy, such will to do what they’re told. You don’t even know how to read yet? No problem son, I’ll just tell you where to point that gun.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 22: The Stone King
The Stone King rose with his ancient ken to protect humanity from the forces of the Grey. He is as devoted to the cause as any of his brethren, but he opposes many of their radical plans. Tradition, centuries old, will sustain our people. Compromise, the King says, is the the true danger. Compromise and change, that leads us into the unknown, untested, and inevitably ruin. The Stone King will bring his power to humanity’s aid, but only if we promise to cling, as he does, to old tradition and ancient law.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 21: The Necralyst
The Necralyst is one of the queens of the Grey. While some queens lead dread hordes of grasping limbs and rending claws, the Necralyst comes alone with soothing words and seductive tone. She has seen the other side. There is peace, there is rest, there is soft embrace. Just give up this life and follow her. She won’t force us, she won’t get angry, she just wants us to experience the tranquility she knows awaits. When we’re ready, she’ll lead us beyond the veil, where we belong.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 20: Asase, Caller of the Spirit Storm
Asase is both loved and feared by her people. She calls on the ghosts of the ancestors to give both guidance and protection, but when she is not needed, those around her believe she allows the spirits to haunt and sometimes curse them. Many still speak of the day that the Grey attacked the village, and took away five children. Asase called on an army of ghosts to fight this terrible enemy, and the spirits appeared as a massive storm that flooded the village. The Grey were pushed back, but no one had ever suspected Asase had such power.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 19: Brother Ironwrist
Ironwrist does not want to use his metallic arms for fighting. He loves crafting intricate and graceful objects in the forges of the Dacemos brotherhood. But he also loves his unpredictable brother Firefist, and whenever he goes storming off on some grand adventure, Ironwrist must follow, at the very least to keep his brother out of too much trouble.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 18: Aiviq, Shaman of the Tundra
Aiviq has traveled far from the frigid north, come to share news of the plight of her people as they face the cruel hoards of Grey. But she finds a world of souls struggling to survive themselves. As she seeks allies, she finds few  she would call trustworthy. The only one who seems to care enough to give her any help is a hot tempered warrior monk who is so impulsive, even she doesn’t know if he’s more of a help than a liability.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 17: Brother Firefist
Firefist is one of the elite warriors among the Brotherhood of Dacemos. When he is told to stay and meditate, he storms out to fight. When he is warned to use caution, he charges in fists first. He loves his brother and is loyal to a fault, but when justice must be served, his hands burn with fury and he can’t hold himself back.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 16: Nezumi, Ninja Rat
Young Nezumi just wanted to have fun with her 31 brothers and sisters, running the underground and eating endless dishes of yakitori. But when the wicked Finger Clan of Grey assassins came against her village, she barely escaped with her life. Hungry for justice, she searched for the old old ninja warrior, Sensei Kame. Now, under his tutelage, she strikes with a silent blade and slips into deep shadows.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 15: Sensei Kame
Wise Sensei Kame was a great warrior ninja in the old days. This old turtle has left behind the days where he stood as a hero for the weak, he will always tell his old stories about ancient days when he and his brothers were proud warriors of the people. He is just old. But with new battles to be fought, he looks for a young student to train and to direct.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 14: Bruce Longtooth, the Cyclops
Bruce loves his mom, among other things.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 13: Boletta, Avatar of Life Recycled
Avatars wander the world of New Gaias. This bizarre creature wanders damp forests and sluggish swamps, tending to crumbling logs and moon-colored mushrooms. Often she appears as a wizened old character, other times as a curvy young woman. But she is always busy, tending about her business of growth and decay.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 12: Iudios, Avatar of Impartial Judgement
Avatars wander the world of New Gaias. The masked Iudios is as quiet as mist and just as enigmatic. He judges the living and dead alike: young or old, heroic or cowardly, his solemn word falls on them.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 11: Rignis, Avatar of Unpleasant Weather
Avatars wander the world of New Gaias. Rignis calls the cloudy skies and the sopping rain. With his grim mood and his dark looks he bangs about with his mallet and his gong. What? God of Storms? No, I said Avatar of Unpleasant Weather.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 10: Papilia, Avatar of Uncanny Metamorphosis
Avatars wander the world of New Gaias. Papilia is beautiful and aloof. Wonderful magic happens within her and around her, and the curious creature growing inside her cocoon head always peaks out, considers emerging, then tucks away to develop itself a little more.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 9: Rettlas, Avatar of Righteous Indignation
Avatars wander the world of New Gaias. Nothing with Rettlas is ever just a casual opinion or query. With a fixed glare and a rigid finger he DEMANDS to know, how DARE you commit such ATROCITIES?!
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 8: Bellos, Avatar of Animal Magnetism
Avatars wander the world of New Gaias. He strolls through the forest, his ways wild and unpredictable, with a hum and a brash grin. Women fall under his charms. Often men do too.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 7: Gestrisna, Avatar of Hospitality
Avatars wander the world of New Gaias. Everyone knows that the sacred inn is the beginning and ending for all great adventurers. Any man, woman, or clever reptilian creature would count themselves lucky to be in the company and care of Gestrina, the fountain of affection and ale.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 6: Rabiux, Avatar of Road Rage
Avatars wander the world of New Gaias. Conflict plagues the peoples of the land. Some are angered over betrayal, others over loss of money or property. But woe to those who succumb to the worst rage of all, ROAD RAGE.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 5: Svicus, Avatar of Deceptive Cute Looks
Avatars wander the world of New Gaias. Chaos follows Svicus wherever he goes. Chaos and destruction and discord. But he is just so darn cute, how can anyone be mad at him?
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 4: Dacemos, Avatar of Inner Peace
Avatars wander the world of New Gaias. Dacemos is often found sipping coffee, ale, or a sweet Arnold Palmer, and reflecting on how everyone just needs to chill out.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 3: The Lost Unicorn
The Lost Unicorn is an aloof and illusive creature. He seems a little sad, but maybe that’s because he’s funny looking.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 2: Jenny Midnight
Jenny Midnight is a quiet girl, with dark locks and dark looks. She loves especially to stare at the stars, and sometimes, if she catches the light right, you can see them twinkle in her hair.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Day 1: Ember the Salamander
Ember the Salamander is an odd little guy. He mostly wants to be left alone, but he can’t seem to say no when his human neighbors need to be helped, and sometimes rescued.
In the world of New Gaius, creatures from the Grey have invaded, and humans are a dwindling species. Beings of magic and myth have manifested to protect and integrate with the last survivors. But still, the fate of humanity is uncertain in this strange, beautiful new world.
Joseph Trahan – 30 Characters 2012
Another November done.
Here’s my stats for this year: 10 ladies, 20 guys, 10 anthropomorphic animal-types (if you include a Cthulhu-faced kid). 16 fantasy, 5 superhero, 4 steampunk, 3 scifi, 2 horror. 4 characters with some sort of copper robotic features, apparently I liked that theme this year.
I started out the year trying to be clever with characters based on idioms. That well started running dry for me around character 11, and my friend Michael came in the nick of time by exposing me to some great Chibi-style artists. I finished out by going back to some typical fantasy/superhero characters, with help from my dear Dana, my family, the Bakers and the Johnsons, and lots of inspiration from other artists in this challenge. Thanks!
Day 30: Armless Jay
Jay Weston is brilliant and driven. So much so that when both of his arms were taken by the crime boss, Crazy Teddy, who wished to exploit him for his genius, Jay built new appendages and went back to work on his experiments. When Crazy Teddy’s thugs came back to check in on him again, they found a man ready, with giant crushing arms. With his new weapons, and his fierce dog Tidbit, the crime family doesn’t stand a chance.Â
#30Characters Chatter…