I usually just wing it, but if I do have an image or images that I use for references I usually include them in the first post. I did want to touch briefly on the topic of romance, as it affects the gender outcome of my character. Is it something you want in the plot, something you'd rather avoid?

As for the initial arch, I had a couple of ideas. Something simple, along the lines of their initial meet and the build of their trust, maybe while traveling for convienance sake. Or there could be a more pressing undertone, a time limit based on outside factors- whatever passes for winter, or violence that is threatening if unity is not achieved, or even something that incorporates your other idea or s cult or group that is causing wide spread mischief.

Also, apologies for the occasional odd typo-- phone typing.