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danwhobrowses · 5 days

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Okay so we are doing a very rare third post about the events of Critical Role campaign 3 episode 91 so avoid if you still haven't watched it because there will be spoilers again

Right. So I'm not gonna talk more about the Reincarnate vs Stay Dead debate with FCG, I still prefer Reincarnate for reasons I put in my last post but now I'm gonna talk about the other route, if FCG stays dead, what becomes of his remains?

It is almost ironic that a PC death happened a few episodes after Matt created the Ruidian custom of making weapons from a loved one's remains, something Ashton and Fearne were quite intrigued by, so I wonder if the Hells would do the same - in a way carrying a little bit of FCG with them to continue the fight. Outside of his loot it's hard to tell what the Hells can use, if it were me I'd have each of the Hells have a bracelet from his hair at the least, but the rest would probably need to be left in the hands of tinkerers to create things that may enhance the Hells' combat; maybe a conductive whip for Imogen to use for her more lightning-based magic for instance, I can also see Ashton fixing FCG's head onto their outfit or hammer and Chetney and Laudna maybe making little FCG dolls for each of them too.

Loot-wise I had to look at the wiki to remind myself of all the stuff FCG had on them, as well as see what Otohan had but outside of the backpack and swords it wasn't quite descriptive at this point, and even then there's no guarantee it'll all be undamaged from the blast, but there were some notable things that could end up in the Hells' hands to use. I feel like we're all in agreement that if FCG doesn't come back that Ashton keeps the Coin of the Changebringer, perhaps even have it affixed to their hammer so to feel like FCG is still fighting with them. The full extent of its magical properties were not shown outside of the Yes/No question and 1 bout of Lucky per day, but on Ashton's hammer the daily reroll might end up being helpful, though they are not a fan of the gods a little FCG-aided divine buffing could go a long way. Other than that, Ashton probably should claim the two Potions of Possibility FCG had, my earlier post mentioned my belief that Otohan's backpack should go to them because Dunamancy (I didn't however mention how echoes can work as temporary meat shields for Ashton to better negate enemy attacks that'd otherwise be aimed at the party) and the logic is the same here, Matt would probably have to try and balance Ashton's Dunamancy and Titan buffs so to not take all four potions (or more, think Fearne and Orym have one too right? *checks* oh and Laudna so that's 7 potions!) at once but those seem to be key loot Ashton should keep a hold of.

Outside of combat FCG would be helpful in using Identify when the Hells came across new objects. While Chetney has Grim Psychometry to do something similar, the Goggles of Object Reading that FCG used could be taken by Imogen - which in turn may provide Laura and the fandom a means to canonize glasses on the character - along with the Staff of Dark Odyssey that she has used before.

Fearne is another who could hold the Staff, but I find it unlikely. She would probably take the rod used to plane-shift to the Fey Realm, in a way being a key to home if she needs it. I can see her taking the Ivory Branch as well, albeit temporarily until a new healer presents themselves, due to the +1 Spell attack and +1d4 Healing. She might keep the Ruidian mood ring but I feel like that wouldn't survive the blast, same with the recipes FCG collected, though it'd be nice if someone were able to carry on his memory that way; Fearne, Ashton or Orym would be likely candidates for that.

Laudna would perhaps be able to use most of the scrap remains of FCG for her constructs, perhaps a little buffing for Pate is in order plus she doesn't use Sashimi often. Chetney only really works in wood so he probably won't take the remains, stuff such as his saws and propeller could be used to empower Laudna's own creations, maybe even the fake legs too.

One weapon I think will not end in Laudna's hands however is the Grapple cannon, which could suit either Orym or Chetney. Orym is the better candidate to use it though, given the 20 Dexterity compared to Chetney's 14, additionally there is the +1 Mithril Half-Plate Armor, which could be an improvement for either.

If Orym were to get both I could see it being a trade for Chetney not getting anything, in turn granting Chetney both of Otohan's swords to use - since Orym may want nothing to do with her equipment given her role in killing their family. Otherwise I can see Chetney maybe grabbing the saws ahead of Laudna, maybe the goggles but he does already have the monocle, and any utensils he can repurpose for crafting. There is also the possibility of him getting the Aeoran Scrambling Devices that we know little about, maybe adding a little 'this wouldn't happen if it were wooden' catharsis for Chet if he used them on machines.

The only other thing that is left from FCG are the bolt thrower and the All-Minds-Burn drugs. The latter could go to anyone but Ashton, Fearne and Imogen are more likely (she still needs to plant that seed), the bolt thrower could go to Laudna, she never used Bor'dor's slingshot with the Draconic Rune that Prism added to it, or to Chetney to fire a chisel. His coat he designed like FRIDA's would probably be kept for her to be given too. Outside of that the only other specific loot we currently know from Otohan is the Fake Treshi Ring for Scrying (not its official name), which won't be of use to the Hells since the next time they get close to a major enemy they will be fighting, but perhaps it could be placed in the hands of Liliana Temult, either to keep track of her or to plant on Ludinus so the Hells can track his movements instead.

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danwhobrowses · 6 days

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So a thing happened on Critical Role this week (campaign 3 ep 91), we're gonna talk about it - a long talk - so if you haven't been caught up and don't wanna be spoiled don't keep reading okay?

One of the disadvantages of being in a different time zone is that after fretting all morning, going to work, thinking 'it's 7am maybe it's done now' I had to sit in my office for a stressful final half hour murmuring don't do this don't fucking do this don't you dare fucking do this!

I already was worried for everyone given the cliffhanger last episode, and the 5 hour length made me further worried as players kept being knocked down by Otohan Thull - already frightening in base form but now with an even higher AC and empowered. Then Sam Riegel had to do what he does best, a devastating sacrifice where FCG blows himself up to take down Otohan - Ludinus' No. 2, harrowed for being proficient in slaughter, defeated by no assassin or warrior but a cleric saving their friends. We've been well past 'get off the moon' hours with this one, but now there is an impact on every one of the Hells to think about, which is what this will be about.

FCG Though he is dead there is still stuff to talk about with FCG's death. A common debate right now is the potential of the Reincarnate spell; while the wording of the death implies that FCG's current body is irreparable there is a chance that a 5th Level Druid Spell can fashion him a new body, one of flesh, bone and tongue. The body itself needs to be dead for less than 10 days so there is wiggle room to gain the necessary components too if the top brass of Exandria turn it into a fetch quest. There is argument on both sides though; if FCG comes back does it undermine his sacrifice? Perhaps, but there's no incentive for the Hells to not try. Reincarnation hasn't quite happened in Critical Role yet - Since Molly/Lucien/Kingsley was kinda different, he kinda had the opposite, different mind same body - so it'd be a refreshing new option and also a way to redesign FCG without having to create a whole new cleric (because they definitely need a cleric) with a whole new skillset that the Hells will need to warm towards before the final battle. But at the same time, the soul has to be willing. FCG was content with his sacrifice, and in the arms of the Changebringer would he go back? I'd like to hope so if it's an option, it'd also entertain a whole new character arc for him as a 'real boy' - plus Matt and Sam don't have to fully abide to the D100 rule of what race he turns into. Of course, I like this angle more than needing a new character, because I like happy endings and it makes narrative sense that the Hells would claw and bite to pull him from that sweet goodnight. It would also validate a reason for the Hells to align with the gods, because if divine favour comes into play and the Gods decide against helping Bell's Hells' greatest advocate for saving them then they are foolishly and callously forsaking key players to their survival, FCG reincarnating with the help of the Gods would play a big part in the Hells standing with them rather than losing faith in them, and even with friction between the Titans & Temults and the Gods from the past they would have a common enemy. Still living or dying can have varying effects on the other characters.

Ashton From the moment Ashton met FCG they wanted to make sure this little bot would be okay, that they'd learn to value their life and be able to thrive. While part of that did happen, Ashton is likely going to feel like nothing's changed since Bassuras; knocked out by Otohan and when awakened a friend is dead, another person they couldn't protect.

Before the shard, I think Ashton would very easily fly off the handle, in their anger they'd blame everything including themselves and maybe even consider leaving themselves, it probably have made them more self-destructive too. Now though I'm not so sure, nobody would hold it against them to waver a little on their promise to take care of themselves in a burst of grief, this was after all their best friend someone they looked after like a little brother, and while I can see Ashton quietly and angrily grieving I can also see Ashton double down on trying to keep their promise, making sure that FCG didn't go out like a martyr and that it won't be in vain. FCG reincarnating would assist in Ashton's character drive too, since I feel like they would detest any replacement cleric because it's not FCG, they may also be less abrasive towards the gods if they came through for them and proved that they care - at least to the Changebringer, think they'd still throw copper at the Dawnfather given the whole Angel incident.

Imogen As the nominated leader of Bell's Hells, many will probably look to Imogen Temult for action, the problem is she has her own mother issues to deal with too - and I'm not entirely sold that Liliana has fully made a turn just yet, only that she won't hand over the Hells to Ludinus. FCG's death is gonna produce a lot of guilt from Imogen though, she was detesting the fact that she had to play dead at 1HP while Otohan cut down her friends again, she will likely blame her inaction which in turn may push her to be more aggressive in combat.

At the same time, I can see her being one of the more gung ho characters to push towards the Reincarnate option, perhaps even going as far as to accost or lambast anyone regardless of alliances or rank who she feels isn't as committed. Imogen has been in the position of loss before, and knowing that FCG had a connection with FRIDA she would likely compel herself to fix it rather than have to deliver the bad news. Regardless of whether he reincarnates though I feel like Imogen may look towards some more defensive spells, and maybe through Liliana try to tap into the powers of an Exalted to try and match the power she saw from Otohan, a risky endeavour for sure but FCG took an even greater risk for them.

Orym Orym is probably the toughest of the Hells to read when it comes to FCG's death. There will of course be a deep sadness at the loss of a friend, but I would also sense a...not bitterness but discontent that this is how it went down. Otohan killed his family, he kept fighting her until he could no longer stand because that's what they would've done, and now she's dead but it doesn't make it better, he wasn't the one to do it, he didn't even see it, and the one who did is gone with her. When Bor'dor was killed, Orym coldly reminded himself that 'we're at war', but I don't think he can justify that way with FCG, the loss was greater than the catharsis.

The death also has to turn attention to his deal with Nanna Mori. Many have pointed out that there is a lot of technicalities that may prolong, void or complete the deal; it was never specified how many times the Hells could return from the moon to continue the deal, but at the same time they did technically return from the moon to Exandria safe and sound via the Secret Backdoor. Still, Mori is his best friend's grandmother, there could be leeway on that matter too and even if he does have to commit to the deal (which I call 'Fatekeeper Orym') it's never been explicitly said that Orym needs to constantly attend to Mori in the Feywild, only that he has to be her caretaker and answer her beck and call. However, FCG's death will likely provide a sobering thought that his deal with Mori was perhaps voided, unless there is one more thread he can have her pull. When it comes to seeking options to bring a friend back, I would keep a close eye on Orym - it's not the first time Liam's resolved himself to be damned before.

Fearne Fearne will likely be a linchpin if the Hells seek out Reincarnate. The spell is exclusive to Druids and if Keyleth isn't on hand to do it the task and pressure will fall to her. It'll be interesting how she reacts, I don't wanna say she'll be the most positive of it because she'll certainly be upset, but I can see her being optimistic even if it's to also convince herself, the one who is most encouraging to find a way. As a shipper I of course want her to be the one who comforts and gets through to Ashton while they grieve but if she also is key to his reincarnation that also adds to their slow-burn. Outside of that, FCG's death may also lead into learning about Mori's deal with Orym, which will probably anger her that Orym kept it from her, there is also the fact that having FCG's life in her hands may bring back bad memories of Bassuras and Whitestone. One must also especially worry about her Asmodeus calling card, the Prince of Lies does nothing for free and I still feel like Klask was planted in her path by Asmodeus' (and maybe even Athion's) titan-seeking design.

If FCG does reincarnate though, I could see her friendship with FCG being even greater than it was, since they'll both feel a greater zeal for life - it may also make her feel further distant from her Evil vision, since she will have saved half her friends rather than risked killing them. If not though, Fearne may have to play mediator for the new cleric and may also be pushed towards freeing up more slots for healing to provide more support for the Hells in future battles.

Chetney It's gonna be an interesting one for Chetney too, from one perspective you could see him thinking that FCG traded their life for his; he died, he made peace with that, but then the one who revived him died. Chetney's more personal mindset has often been cloaked in secrecy, perhaps as one of the least open of the Hells despite many claiming him as the Heart of the group, so I wonder if Chetney may harbour some Survivor's Guilt for what happened.

I can see Chetney being the one to keep his emotions close to his chest, even if FCG were to reincarnate he would perhaps try to shrug off that he always knew it'd happen anyway. That being said someone who remains stoic and unwavering may prove a positive or a negative to the group, depending on the person or their interpretation of it. If a new cleric comes along though I could see him being additionally protective of them, having been the new guy before.

Laudna We should all be worried for Laudna right now. The recent 4SD already revealed that Laudna's 'close to the brink' and I'm pretty sure this is the brink. The aftermath of the Otohan fight will likely push each of the Hells to get stronger, since had they hit harder or been able to take stronger blows it wouldn't have come to this, but that will mean bad things when it comes to Laudna, as she may seek to gain power the only way she thinks she can - through Delilah. After all her last two levels went to Sorcery and did little in the fight, whereas her Warlock class Eldritch Blasts hurt Otohan fairly decently, such a thing can linger in the mind for Delilah to manipulate.

It'll be telling if they do try to Reincarnate him whether the damage will have been done already to Laudna, and that the joy of bringing him back turns to tragedy of Laudna losing herself further, as it often does it will fall to how she leans on Imogen, and how open about it she'll be to her. If FCG is lost however, we may have to keep a very close eye on Laudna being next.

Bell's Hells As I mentioned with Laudna, FCG's death will have made something apparent and clear; despite everything Bell's Hells need to get stronger. Even at Lv13, even with Exalted powers, Fey bargains and Titan shards they still just barely escaped a TPK, and granted they were weakened and worn out but no fight is guaranteed to ever be fought at 100%. Otohan may've been the toughest General of the Vanguard but the other Generals - the Weavemind, Zathuda and the Dominon of Cruft Commander - are still not ones to take lightly, Ludinus is still not one to take lightly, and if Liliana is going to be used by him to become a vessel for Predathos, that cannot be taken lightly. Bell's Hells may need to look towards enhancing their stats as well as their equipment, the harness is still a factor too which can boost them all with enough enchanted items at their disposal. An interesting one would be if Otohan's backpack ends up in one of the Hells' hands; many beforehand have talked about Orym being an Echo Knight but I would personally like to see Ashton take it, since it is powered by the Potion of Possibility like their own Dunamancy powers, it's possible (eheh) that they may align in some manner and could you imagine Ashton + 3 Echoes all raging to get All 4 Dunamancies? Otohan's swords may also provide unique properties for Chetney and/or Orym to use. Reincarnation or not I feel like that may be the Hells' next plan once it's discussed whether to attempt Reincarnation and they're off of Ruidus, gathering allies will likely also be something to prepare for for the final battle given how Otohan stated that they have 'enough Ruidusborns' for their plan. As a group it is difficult to tell if this will strengthen or weaken them, it could strengthen them in a 'never again' way like the Nein, but they were also very enthusiastic about bringing Molly back - it drove them through several arcs - FCG however often was the Hells' beacon of hope and the self-imposed attempted therapist, without that the Hells will either have to put it upon themselves to go the extra lengths or they'll close further in on themselves. If FCG does reincarnate I feel like it would definitely strengthen them mentally but if not I am not so sure.

It shouldn't come to a surprise that I will hold onto the Reincarnate potential so that the Hells can get back their friend, but rest assured I'm worried for all of them right now, there are crossroads ahead.

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danwhobrowses · 7 days

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Stress. Pain. Sam.

#critical role #cr spoilers #critical role spoilers #c3e91 #bell's hells #fresh cut grass #fcg #otohan thull #sam riegel #godspeed you damn robot #he's with the changebringer now #So uh Nanna Mori about that deal?#this is gonna really tear up Ashton their MO from the beginning was to try and keep them alive #the crew needs a cleric again now too #let history show however that the Merchant of Death that was Otohan Thull was felled by a Cleric who valued Life #let him be remembered and her forgotten #seriously Matt why Otohan? Could've just left the moon but no you had to throw in a fight with the one villain everyone fears #and then MAKE HER MORE FUCKING POWERFUL TO BOOT??#also fuck off Zathuda her name is Fearne Calloway!#Liliana if this is your redemption arc you better do some big moves istg #you do this to me right after X-Men 97??

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danwhobrowses · 8 days

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So, people naturally have opinions with the AEW All In Footage releasing - something I'm surprised was genuine footage and not some work or swerve. Here's my cents about it;

Just because CM Punk didn't lie about the altercation doesn't put him in the right. He still deserved to be fired still because he attacked an employee. This doesn't make Punk look strong, or tough, and it doesn't mean he's truthful about everything, he just didn't lie about something there were several witnesses for.

People are forgetting that Khan 'fearing for his life' is a separate interaction to the Perry fight, reports beforehand have made a point that they talked after the altercation - since Punk was immediately in a match afterwards - one to one.

AEW never said Punk was lying, most reports after All In match what Punk said, including Samoa Joe's own comments about it. Showing the footage was framed in the way of the Bucks' EVP character delusion that many have missed the point of. FTR even came out and questioned why the footage was necessary, which means there is awareness of it.

I don't know why they're blocking the footage, don't ask me because I don't have the answers I'm just a guy in England seeing this unfold; maybe it's down to the negative response, maybe there's some other legal things about it given how Punk is a WWE wrestler, I sincerely don't know.

Nobody wins from this for sure, but Tony Khan could never win from this anyway. Punk did a full on interview about the incident with a known Pro-WWE Anti-AEW guy and people waited for a response; when they didn't get the 'twitter meltdown' he gets mocked, when Copeland does a promo talking about the positives of wrestling he gets mocked, he shows footage of the altercation validating Punk's firing and he gets mocked.

Many just want Khan to be Vince 2.0 or failing that someone out of depth with money and a toy box of wrestlers, even though that's exactly what Triple H is too he just inherited it rather than built it from the ground up.

In an ideal world AEW and WWE wouldn't take shots at each other, but they do, fans however only give AEW shit for it. Punk buries AEW on an interview, Triple H takes subtle shots at AEW talents in the build to Wrestlemania, Punk and other wrestlers also take shots at AEW during and after Wrestlemania and it's treated as banter, but AEW wrestlers respond and it's 'rent free' comments. The reality is that WWE and AEW both live rent free in each other's heads, because they are in competition with one another.

#aew #wwe #cm punk #jack perry #tony khan #the young bucks #I'd rather it had all been left alone from both sides but here we are #so many 'wrestling fans' only want to see a downfall though which sucks #AEW still are bringing great wrestlers and wrestling out but people aren't talking about it because WWE is better than it was before #but newsflash folks: you can enjoy more than one company of wrestling! Such a thing exists #And both companies have their issues and shortcomings neither are perfect #those saying 'if it were the Attitude era...' well it's not it's 2024 where you're responsible for your actions #you shouldn't want things backstage to be back in the attitude era anyway it fucked a lot of people up

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danwhobrowses · 8 days

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So uh, holy fuck X-Men 97...

#x men #x men 97 #x men 97 spoilers #remember it #gambit #remy lebeau #rogue #magneto #scott summers #erik lensherr #madelyne pryor #jean grey #cyclops #wolverine #didn't quite like some actions some characters took here; some came off as rubbing it in and others hypocritical #but boy did that take a turn #they can't be right? Gotta be some Cable-time travel or Krakoa cloning involved or something?#least my boy is okay #vague tags are vague unless you haven't seen it

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danwhobrowses · 10 days

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If anyone's curious after I finally watched all the main PPVs this weekend. MotN (Supercard of Honor): Eddie Kingston vs Mark Briscoe MotN (Stand and Deliver): Oba Femi vs Dijak vs Josh Briggs MotN (Wrestlemania XL Day 1): GUNTHER vs Sami Zayn MotN (Wrestlemania XL Day 2): Logan Paul vs Randy Orton vs Kevin Owens Best Entrance: The Rock (Wrestlemania XL Day 1) Best Attire: Athena as Karlach (Supercard of Honor) - But shout out to New Day for the Rocky and Apollo gear honoring Carl Weathers. Best Performance: Kyle Fletcher (Supercard of Honor) Best Spot: Billie Starkz fakes a Neck Injury just to jump Queen Amanita to win her first major title at 19 years old (Supercard of Honor)

#wwe #roh #ring of honor #nxt #wwe nxt #nxt stand and deliver #supercard of honor #wrestlemania 40 #I'd probably have liked Stand and Deliver more if it weren't for Booker T on commentary #Punk on commentary was so bitter and redundant as well #and Snoop Dogg was fucking baked #also I'd like to point out that I hate the 'pull the ref out the ring' spot - it doesn't stop them from being able to count!#Trips and Steph opening each Mania was a bit narcissistic if TK did it the internet would've ripped him apart even if it were Wembley #nobody wants to admit how big a mark Trips and Steph are for themselves and it shows - literally just jerking themselves off on tv #love Rey but felt Dom and Santos probably should've won though #like ol' Stingray but he kinda lingered too long for Johnny/Dalton #liked Drew's entrance but the Rock took it easily - also that kinda setup should've been for a world title match #Sami and Owens being there for each other backstage before their entrances was nice though #but still a lot of good wrestling out this weekend #Pretty Deadly skit was funny too on Night 1 #not the biggest Corbin fan but his tag match was a close second to the NA triple threat #and credit where it's due also to Logan Paul as much as I hate him actually did some wrestling this time #Athena/Shida was a close second against Eddie/Mark too - same with Lee/Fletcher #Kyle just beats out Sami and Dijak imo but they all wrestled their butts off #should've put money on Drew winning then Punk attacking leading to a Priest cash in though #I'd be down for a R-KO tag run though - also a Mina vs Toni match to put Mariah in the middle #but congrats Cody for winning the world title that didn't exist when Dusty was robbed of winning the world title against Flair by count out #get yourself someone who loves you as much as WWE loves a spear through the barricade

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danwhobrowses · 12 days

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Fuck yeah Karlach cosplay from Athena at ROH Supercard of Honor

#I was rooting for Shida still but love both these women #ring of honor #roh supercard of honor #karlach #baldur's gate 3 #bg3 #athena palmer #athena

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danwhobrowses · 14 days

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Okay cool so this is was me all of this and last week fretting years off my life about the episode and I guess it's gonna be me next week fretting years off my life about next episode coolcoolcoolcool

#critical role #critical role spoilers #cr spoilers #c3e90 #cr3 #cr3 spoilers #bell's hells #I mean we know it was gonna be tense and chaotic but we have multiple episodes of this tension and chaos? I only have so little sanity #but yeah now I got more days to fret about it in different ways so thanks Matt I guess?#god what is ep100 gonna be like? I kinda want Dorian to return for 100 but at this point who knows? Maybe sooner? Maybe later?#what are we even gonna talk about on this month's 4SD? Like what do we pick?#we need off the moon asap now only Chetney's been having a decent time here giving toys to people #Liliana is pissed and on the warpath and I feel we ain't healed enough or levelled enough for this!#also I'm gonna need a clip of Fearne and Ashton hugging for Callowmoore reasons and all the fanart we can get #Ira did at least save Fearne before bolting which was nice even if we didn't get to kill Athion and steal his dragon for her (yet)#but 'don't let me float away'? Clutch at my rapidly beating heart why don't ya?#we all agree though that this should be the permanent table format right? The Imodna and Callowmoore roleplay demands physical contact!#I need to lie down but I also need to work because office hours freaking time zones and all...

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danwhobrowses · 19 days

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Egghead anime about to go crazy next week I mean Luffy looks like a demon!

#one piece #one piece anime #egghead island #egghead spoilers #monkey d. luffy #gear fifth #sun god nika #vincent chansard #akihiro ota #we're getting a big budget episode for Luffy vs Lucci folks!#ota did the scene with Snakeman and Yamato attacking Kaido back in Wano so you know it's gonna be good

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danwhobrowses · 27 days

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One Piece Chapter 1111 - Initial Thoughts

The chapters are taking longer and longer to come out it seems, but One Piece finally dropped its final chapter before another 3 week hiatus.

It's a shame, but it's an understandable route, I think we all had the urge to wrap Oda in bubble wrap after Akira Toriyama's saddening death, everyone has to process it their own way.

Regardless, we have a chapter still to get through, so let's see where we're leaving things?

Spoilers for the Chapter, Support the Official Release

A colour spread of chips (or fries for you Americans) and jellyfish with the crew, Kuma, Vegapunk and Bonney, of course Bonney wants more after eating her own

Marcus Mars indeed has breached the Labosphere and Jinbe, sensing the haki, wants to get out now

Zoro's not quite content though, Lucci is beaten but not down

Scarred now at the front, Lucci still stands, angry but stumbling over to the two

With time of the essence Jinbe grabs Zoro and uses a 5,000 Brick Fist to propel them away

I'm sure Sanji stans and Anti-Zoro fans will have a field day of 'Zoro didn't beat Lucci' but guys he looks plenty beat, just because they get up again after being knocked out doesn't mean he's not beat, else we're gonna have to say that Mihawk never beat Zoro or Luffy never beat Enel

Like the moment they left he collapses back into human form

And then proceeds to shit bricks seeing Mars, asking for status on York

The loyal dog (or cat) he is he does give Mars the rundown; York is in the control room, the 5 straw hats above are seeking escape through the south when Zoro and Jinbe reconvene, 2 Vegapunks are up here, 85 CP agents and 4 Seraphim in the basement and 6 minutes before Vegapunk's message

Though, a rare show of sentiment from Rob Lucci, as he requests that Kaku - heavily injured in the control room - be recovered

Also worth noting that if Kaku's bandaged like this it likely means Chopper healed him after he was wrecked by at least S-Hawk

Mars however makes no guarantees, already planning to 'wipe out the nest'

Back to Luffy we see him reunite with the giants

Dorry and Brogy seem to think that Luffy's taking the image of the Sun God rather than actually being Nika

Warcury and Saturn are once again taken aback by the appearance of giants

Sanji has been relaying the messages, having told the giants to help Luffy with escaping

Kinda strange though because Sanji was very isolated for Little Garden, having that little coffee break chatting with Crocodile and breaking the Unluckies' necks, but sure enough

We have a map too, though Oda made sure not to mark any of the Gorosei

Dorry blows a horn, signalling that they got to Luffy, which pulls the giants into a tactical retreat

Warcury readies a retort though, blowing his own 'horn' with a yell of Conqueror's Haki

A yell so powerful it popped most of Luffy's features off his body, including his scar!

But naturally toon force means he can put it back together, he's literally holding his eye scar

'Some Government Big Shot' is so funny when you consider that Luffy literally doesn't know who the five godheads of the world government are

Warcury's got flips too, looking to attack with the horns, but the giants block each tusk with their shields

Warcury's tusks seem to have the definition of swords now, I wonder if that's linked to his powers

He asks for backstory on why the giants are loyal to him and to that we say 'read pre-Timeskip'

A double shield bash knocks the Topman to the bottom

Of all things disturbing about Saturn, seeing his mouth is probably the most disturbing

Much like Magellan, he fires pellets of poison at the trio

Luffy, resourceful and once more entering Toon Force, grabs a palm tree, eats it like a corn on a cob, and paints it into a baseball bat - complete with helmet - both adorned with Go-Mu (56) on it

Ayyyy batter batter swing batter!

Expecting the venom to just hit the Gorosei on the return, Luffy's surprised to see them explode like nukes

The opening is there to leave, but Luffy points out to Brogy that the Gorosei aren't beat, they can't die

Everyone's in a rush to get ready; Luffy, Dorry and Brogy are on the move, Sanji is still running and carrying Vegapunk's corpse, Jinbe is running and carrying Zoro's reluctant ass, everyone but Nami is pulling the Sunny back in position

But Bonney has 3 vice admirals waiting for her

Might be unwise to put yourselves between a long boat of giants and more giants though ngl

Mars finds York though, still trapped and now panicking because a monster is asking her where the room the transmission is coming from

Kizaru meanwhile is being tended to, but he claims his wounds 'run deep' - basically he's thrown in the towel

But through the flames it finally arrives, the giant mecha, unfazed by the elements, bigger than a giant, and it speaks

'Joy Boy, forgive me'

Jeez Joy Boy must have lived in an age of regrets because every time we meet something or someone from his time they have something they regret or are apologizing for; Zunesha, the Nefertari family, Joy Boy themselves, now the sleeping giant? I guess in a way it's kinda poetic, they lived in an era where their dreams couldn't come true, so they live in regret, in darkness, until the dawn rises once more.

As for the rest, I know some people will be miffed that Lucci survived, but it serves as a necessity for Mars to get where he's going, and like I said before he's practically out, even Jinbe says that the fight is already won and I doubt Jinbe would lie. When we first started this portion of the arc I was 100% expecting Luffy and co to have left the island by this chapter, but it seems more like it's the beginning of the final phase, the fights leading to escape much like Enies Lobby and Sabaody did. At the least it seems Mars is more occupied with the transmission than the Straw Hats but his priorities can change, plus he can still activate the Seraphim after them instead. V. Nusjuro - who like Ju Peter was quiet this chapter, given how they both got more shine in the previous one - is still circling the island too, which can still lead to a Sanji confrontation, but I'm more eager to see Franky hopefully get some shine against the Vice Admirals; Nine Chins et al don't seem to be the proper threat in terms of VAs though with Bluegrass and Doll hovering around, plus we did see Tosu get bonked by a giant in one hit so I'm not expecting them to go far.

Watching Luffy go full Toon Force is a joy though - pun intended - it's just delightful rubberhose creativity straight outta Tom & Jerry, even gnawing some wood into a baseball bat is classic stuff, so for me it works in comedy and nostalgia. I might die if he paints a tunnel only he and his friends can run through.

We didn't get much word on Vegapunk's transmission and we won't for quite some time now, but I would like to hope that Vegapunk's smart enough to know where the government would look first. I know there's theories that Dragon has the main signal but I feel like it'd have to exist somewhere more akin to a tree in the forest in order to piggyback off of government Den Den Mushi connectivity, if Dragon had that kinda access he probably would've used it more for intelligence. But it's not something I'm too attached towards being wrong about.

Hope Oda gets some rest and stays healthy, if there's one thing we as fans are known for it is indeed our ability to wait.

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danwhobrowses · 28 days

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Okay sure just split the group again I'm sure nothing could go wrong this time dividing them into sub-groups to sting at high levelled and relatively unknown areas with high risk and high threat of boss level enemies in the vicinity and then go on another break to make us stew on that, it's fine IT'S FINE!

#critical role #bell's hells #cr spoilers #c3 e89 #critical role spoilers #the volition #ruby vanguard #the imperium #ruidus #unseelie court #universe really gotta hit me with Frieren season finale and CR going on a break AND One Piece going on a break!#it's like you want me to have nothing to do on Friday #honestly how many times in all 3 campaigns has splitting up worked? Not a lot Matt it's just evil PCs have died #my Callowmoore heart of course is relieved that Ashton and Fearne are in the same group this time - they're not gonna lose her again #maybe we can sneak in some combo moves for Bearne and Bashton - play a bit of holies #but still it's difficult to gauge how to deal with Athion plus maybe a dragon indoors plus Ira's willingness to leave people behind #Otohan and Ludinus can be lurking anywhere too #we still have no idea where Ryn is being kept either #the Liliana assassination attempt is doomed to fail and as much as it's a terrible choice I think Imogen needs to let her go #she talks about Ludinus like an abusive lover but acts blind to the cries of the people she says she's protecting #like woman go home! If they need you then removing yourself from the board stops them that's why there's a target on your back #but we all believe in Gaz supremacy at least #and more moon lore always gotta have the moon lore #tag reader's bonus: turtles live in every continent except antarctica #idk usually I have this many tags in ship posts so I drop a headcanon but this is more just panic so you get a nice turtle fact

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danwhobrowses · 29 days

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The only positive with Charles being dead in X-Men 97 is that Magneto can now permanently unleash his glorious mane onto the world

#x men #x men 97 #magneto #erik lehnsherr #the first two episodes were great lots of plots on the surface #great cliffhanger to end ep 2 too #and the power plays are awesome Storm Magneto and Cyclops all got some badass moments #and ofc the classic opening (though I do also like the JP song that Honest Trailers opened my ears to)#seriously what is his hair routine?

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danwhobrowses · 1 month

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One Piece Chapter 1110 - Initial Thoughts

FINALLY

The five have landed, and TCB had the audacity to not translate until late Friday, making us wait so long, but we're finally here, so let's not waste any more time.

Spoilers for the Chapter, Support the Official Release too

Our cover story is a Yamato story, he's off to travel Wano just as Oden did, which he tells Momonosuke in this cover. Given the name, I'd expect that he may cross paths with Onimaru since it'll involve an Inari shrine

How ominous a title to have with 'Planetfall' too

The buster call watches on as it notices the similar effects to Saturn's arrival, Bluegrass seems particularly disturbed

The giants sense it too, with Bonney and Franky left to worry about the others

Vegapunk's broadcast involved showing off 'Vega-Coffee', which essentially is something that turns water into coffee

That ad break lasted 3 minutes, so there's still 7 minutes left

Marejois meanwhile is empty though, only the summoning circle appears

But Vegapunk is starting anyway, with the threat that the broadcast could be intercepted it's better to hasten

And finally we got the Gorosei fruits and it all seems to be Zoans, mainly Yokai

Saturn of course is the Gyuki, as we suspected from the design

Marcus Mars is an Itsumade, the 'Eerie bird'. According to research "Saw-like beak" and "talons as sharp as swords"

Topman Warcury is a Houki, not much info on it but that it's a Four Tusked Boar from China

Arguably the most badass design is Ethanbaron V. Nusjuro, the Bakotsu. The skeletal horse is a vengeful spirit seeking revenge for being burned to death

And finally Shepherd Ju Peter, the only non-Yokai is a Sandworm. Because Oda definitely watched Dune recently

As Luffy stands down the Five Elder Planets, Sanji rushes off with Vegapunk's corpse ready to warn Nami and the others

V. Nusjuro is first to make a move, turning into a Centaur-like hybrid form as he lays waste to the Mark III pacifista surrounding the island

He was so quick that no Marine saw it either, only catching a faint image of a horse

Not even damaged, partially frozen, their 'neural circuitry' was frozen so he may've cut into their souls

I wonder if this could be a level Brook can attain

Mars is also on the move, but he's going up high

Sanji contacts Nami, telling them to get out now, soon enough Mars charges into the barrier

Luffy continues to dodge on the back foot against Saturn with Ju Peter and Warcury on the outskirts, but he notices that Ju Peter is burrowing

Usopp contacts Sanji, they're ready to leave but Zoro and Jinbe aren't here

The Sunny is safe and sound, but despite Brook's calmness he's getting his shins kicked by Lilith, who reminds him that the Sunny's only safe because of Usopp's bamboo shoots

Jinbe makes his way to Zoro, being within eyeshot

Zoro meanwhile finds himself slightly disarmed by Lucci, who taunts Zoro over his curiosity over the new sources of strong Haki

As Jinbe notes that they're still fighting, Sanji makes an off-comment, calling him a burden

Zoro has been ACTIVATED

Catching the sword that was disarmed, Zoro uses Santoryu against Lucci's leopard spots for the quick KO

The Chapter Notes point out that he references Hahava, the coldest hell of Buddhism

Plot demanded Zoro finish late, so finally Zoro has finished

Luffy meanwhile has been caught lacking, as the Sandworm comes for a bite

Dorry and Brogy have arrived though, much like they did in Little Garden (well one of them) they cut the gullet before Luffy can be swallowed

Luffy is glad to see some old friends, but now the numbers are a little more even

Well the Gorosei are definitely not weaklings

Terrifying creatures all in their own rights, they definitely set themselves up as powerful foes. Makes you wonder though what Imu could be if this is the base line huh?

There seems to be a bit more lines to draw this time around; with V. Nusjuro circling the island down below he may find himself crossing the Giants' ships, meaning Franky, Bonney, Atlas and maybe Sanji, Oimo and Kashii will likely have to confront him. Up above we have Mars looking to break through to the Labophase, which he likely will, leading to the crew having to find an opening there; Nami, Usopp, Zoro, Chopper, Robin, Jinbe and Brook plus Lilith is a greater numbers advantage, but Mars may also use the Seraphim if he's wily, does not look good for the CP agents, York and Kaku though, hope the first and latter got out safe.

Which leaves Luffy and the giants facing down Saturn, Ju Peter (I doubt he's dead) and Warcury. I could sadly see the captains not making it out, or holding off 3 so to get Luffy out. Let's not forget that Kizaru can always pull himself back into it (I hope Sentomaru also escaped). Plus there's still the matter of Vegapunk's broadcast itself.

It's not gonna be clean or pretty, but thinks are gonna get chaotic in the best and the worst way.

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danwhobrowses · 1 month

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You know, between the halfling nature, the overall trauma, and now a sword that detects specific kinds of creatures by glowing, Orym is slowly ticking off the Frodo Baggins checklist

#critical role #cr3 #cr3 spoilers #c3e88 #orym of the air ashari #cr orym #frodo baggins #lotr #keep him away from any evil rings #bell's hells #though Frodo probably wishes he could do backflips like Orym let's be honest #the bloody bridge looked like the eye of sauron too and they dressed up as the Fellowship before I see you Matt and Liam

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danwhobrowses · 1 month

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Dune Part 2 Character Arcs Summed up in a Single Sentence

Spoilers for the movie below

Paul: I can accept murder and guerrilla warfare, but I draw the line on religion.

Chani: Oh so it's like that is it?

Jessica: You can either do it or I force you to do it, your 'choice'.

Alia: Mother I crave violence.

Stilgar: Only the true Messiah denies his divinity (this is how I cope win).

Princess Irulan: Dear Diary, I need a new wardrobe I'm wearing dangly metal bits in a fecking desert!

Feyd-Rautha: I may be a murderous sociopath *slits a servant's throat for dramatic effect* but even I'm not crazy enough to turn down Lea Seydoux.

Rabban: I would love to, but I'm in the middle of running for my life to do that.

Gurney: Either Duke 'em or Nuke 'em, Paul!

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danwhobrowses · 1 month

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So I Finally Finished a Playthrough of Baldur's Gate 3

It's been months of playing over my holidays and the weekends, but I've finally completed my first playthrough of what was deemed Game of the Year for 2023.

As someone whose only D&D experiences come from the two movies (the bad one that traumatized me as a kid by killing Snails and the good one that deserves more love) and Critical Role, I didn't know much of what I was getting into, only my coworkers saying 'buy it, it's a masterpiece' unanimously when I inquired about it. Having no idea how to play or the lore, I was very much entering blind.

Continued down the Keep Reading

So, I'm sure we gotta get through the first set of questions so let's get to them.

What was your Tav? It took a long time to realise that 'Tav' meant your player character among fanpages, I can't tell you why it's Tav still, but I only pieced it together from Durge naming too. My Tav is Dec, short for December because that's when I started playing and I couldn't waste too much time on stream thinking up a clever name. He was a High Elf Guild Artisan, for Class I started as a Beast Master Ranger, ironic that Ranger is deemed one of the lesser classes among the community, I was adamant to not use archery at the start but by the end of it I was a Crossbow Expert. I went 9/3 with Rogue to get Assassin, but then respec'd my Ranger into a Gloomstalker, since I never really summoned the bear (probably should've learned from Sam's constant dissing of Trinket eh?) plus when I remembered Dread Ambusher it gave me 3 attacks on the first turn. He has combustible blood thanks to Araj and some tadpole powers after consuming them after the creche incident made him more open to trusting the Dream Visitor; Charm - which failed 90% of the time - Psionic Backlash, Favourable Beginnings and Luck of the Far Realms used mainly, I had Stage Fright and Force Tunnel but didn't use it, same for Cull the Weak. Likes to talk things through, especially with Persuasion/Charisma buffing invisible hats. Has the Duellist's Perogative Sword and the Swire's Sledboard Shield for Melee, and the AC bonus, plus the Armor of Agility giving him an evasive 24 AC with Advantage thanks to 20 DEX and the Cloak of Displacement.

You can't see his scar and tattoo too well from here but I had to show off his Black Furnace and Red dye on his armour it looks too good. Here's a better look of his face:

For his tattoo and scarring I like to think he got the tattoo after the burn, in some ways distracting it from the scarring.

Did you Save Scum? Don't Lie to Me! Yes and I'm not sorry about it. If you wanna invite me to a D&D table I'll follow the rules and how the dice lands but there's a lot more wiggle room there than in a game where there's finite dialogue options. I was also not going to sit there and let my companions turn against me just because the game fancied throwing continual Nat 1s or low rolls at me, nor would I let Omeluum die in the Iron Throne, or end up leaving the Mirror of Loss empty handed. I bought the game so if I wanna carve this experience this way I shall carve it this way, I get some people see the Morally Good path as boring for this kind of gaming but I like to be good, it feels good, and I want good things to happen for my allies, even if it means having to undo most of their religious indoctrination. But, it did take a while for me to start save scumming, really it was freeing Halsin that started it but it didn't become regular until Auntie Ethel. I only really did it for dialogue/lore expansion (or when there were two dialogue options I was between which I hoped would be interpreted how I expect it to) and for necessary buff rolls like the Mirror of Loss, but sometimes I did it to keep some key NPCs alive like Jaheira, who died at Moonrise the first time.

Who did you usually team up with? Kinda a harem squad since I had Lae'zel, Shadowheart and Karlach. I was very combat-oriented; Lae'zel adding support to Karlach's melee or Dec's ranged combat while Shadowheart made up for most of the magic with heals, summons and like 100 scrolls in her bag (Dec horded about 100 different arrows and poisons too, sometimes pays off). I respec'd her to Light Domain after the Nightsong stuff to fit her character and hair change - though I must admit I preferred the black hair - and gave her my Adamantine Splint Armour for defences plus the ring and Balduran's Helm for +5 healing each turn. Lae'zel was a Battle Master, clad in the Helldusk set, though I didn't use much of her Superiority dice moves; the enemies often made saves against it even with 18 strength (20 after the mirror of loss, and higher at endgame thanks to an Elixir of Cloud Giant Strength), I relied more on her brute force, plus reaction skills like Executioner and Sentinel, plus the Silver Sword of the Astral Plane. Karlach was a 9/3 Bear Heart Barbarian and Champion Fighter, I did respec her for the Feats but the Bone armour, Balduran's Greatsword and Brutal Jump also helped at times, plus the Gauntlets of Hill Giant Strength and the Amulet of Greater Health made her a high damage, near-200 Health-on-Rage machine (over 200 thanks to the +30 extra health at the final battle). I tended not to swap around a lot, I couldn't abandon my healer, loved Karlach's personality and I had sentiment for Lae'zel being the first person I encountered, she has the sad eyes too, but I did do some rare switching for personal quests. Initially I started with Astarion, but that's because of a misunderstanding of who Karlach was - more on that later - and it turned out that I wasn't doing much for stealth, I brought him for Cazador though, much like I brought Wyll for Ansur and Gale for the Book of Karsus. Later in Act 3 I played around with dyes and equipped everyone, out of fear that I may be sprung unprepared like with Orin - Halsin only had a torch - by all campmates joining the fight, it didn't happen but everyone at least looks stylish.

I go between whether I like Wyll's colours though, on one hand he looks like a Templar and the white would stand out in Avernus, other times he looks like a cosplayer XD Minsc and Jaheira needed no dyes the colours already suited well, but I do love the colours I chose for Astarion, Halsin and Karlach.

Who did you fuck? (romance) Probably would've been asked sooner but sadly Dec became an unintended bachelor, at least outside of the headcanon. He did share a night of passion with Lae'zel after freeing the Emerald Grove but it wasn't something he wanted to pursue further, our dynamic was more befitting of two soldiers, or at least a dynamic where we think we're the General and the other the Advisor. Had Shadowheart took 'later' for her drink offer as 'I want to see all the dialogues other characters have first' rather than a refusal there might have been a romance there, instead I feel we fell into a more sibling bond, she can be a bit too sassy at times in passing dialogue - I had hoped to see more development with her and Lae'zel eventually being friends. Wyll did his best to throw sad puppy eyes at me when I refused to dance with him but it just made things more awkward, Gale meanwhile probably was gonna make moves when teaching me the Weave but he was very hung up on Mystra for me to entertain it, I sat with him when he felt the mortal coil though. Astarion I think made a passing suggestion but nothing of substance, Halsin left it late after he got kidnapped by Orin - I didn't realise he had to physically join the party to be a part of the group until Act 3 - coming onto me right before I confronted the Brain which was quickly turned down. I believe Minsc and Jaheira are unable to be romanced atm, and I did not fuck the Emperor; it weirded me out that he just was there shirtless chilling next to my unconscious dream state. We killed Minthara, didn't know you could recruit or romance her in a Morally Good path. Which left Karlach, fuck did I want to romance Karlach, not for lack of trying either; but because when I met Wyll he was talking about killing her I immediately assumed 'oh Karlach must be that woman on the cover with him' (aka 'the bitch who could've been cool if she wasn't such a bitch' Mizora, who I also wouldn't have romanced given the option) and stuck a pin in it, I was also unaware that most Act 1 romance stuff would come to a head at the end of the Emerald Grove quest which I prioritized so I only encountered Karlach after I saved Halsin and the Grove, meaning I couldn't reach Dammon until Act 2. By then Karlach seemed to be locked out of romance, perhaps for another misunderstanding on my part too since I did upgrade her engine twice at Lost Light very swiftly, but it still was a knife to the heart after all that and the date at the circus that she called us 'just mates' to Fytz. All this and then they give us a better kissing patch ¬_¬

Yes so sad, anyway what about ~Astarion~? Astarion is popular, and I know why he's popular, and the scene of him killing Cazador was very well done...but Astarion for me though was just fine; I mean you guys see Karlach right? Part of the reason she stays my group was that I can't bear to part from her. A lot of the times my Morally Good options didn't align with Astarion's brand of pessimistic chaos, so he spent a lot of time in camp as I mispronounced his name until I heard it be properly said, which probably hampered his story a bit more, but we had a close enough friendship that he heeded my advice with the Ascension and the spawn, wish he reacted to me getting a painting of him since he can't see his reflection though, felt like something could've been done there. Jaheira was a fun personality too, angry old lady who says it like it is, kinda wish we had more to her quest, seeing her home and her interacting with her wards/children was interesting, Minsc was charming too in his simple way, would've been cool if he had more of a presence as well, like we could hear about Minsc and the Stone Lord in separate lights earlier in the game to build up to him. On that topic, I was surprised to find that there wasn't a companion for each role, I suppose there were constraints but Aylin and Zevlor both worked as Paladins, Alfira a Bard (though I don't think anyone would dare put her in the line of fire), I suppose there's little need for a Sorcerer when you had a Wizard or a Monk when you had a Fighter and Barbarian but it was strange, you get 2 Druids and your Ranger is built more like a Fighter or Barbarian (the latter I added to Minsc). I'd later learn that there was cut content for a halfling companion who was a werewolf, but I can see why that one was cut, with Chetney and all, but yeah not any halflings, Barcus could've been a companion even without the Artificer class, or a Dragonborn.

So how did your story go? Being the Morally Good Guy I was I went through most of the best options I could, but I also tried to avoid combat earlier on when I was struggling to work with it. I was friendly with the Goblin Camp for starters, since they thought I was with the Absolute and Dec is willing to put shit on his face to avoid conflict, it all went tits up after freeing Halsin and having to kill everyone but it may've had some benefit to how I could walk freely through Moonrise. Ironically it was the same with the Githyanki, friendly up until they wanted me to hand over the prism, though the Creche was a lost cause anyway, they're lucky I didn't ransack the place, could've gotten a lot of xp and loot there. I let Viconia live, so she can dwell on that burn Shadowheart gave her but oftentimes I was not so merciful, do wish I didn't kill that one Sharran with the letter of hating being there though, why'd you fight me girl? Same with the Bhaalist with the parents at Elfsong, and the goblin children, I was using nonlethal but arrows don't count as I'd soon learn. Allies were mostly good-to-neutral creatures like the Tieflings (though I wish I saved more, nobody told me about the harpies and I thought convincing Rolan to stay would mean the Grove not the Shadow Cursed Lands - also why send refugees who struggle with goblins through the SHADOW CURSED LANDS?) and 90% of the Ironhand Gnomes because fuck Wulbren - I didn't like Barcus too much at first, thought him rude, but when Wulbren didn't even show gratitude for his attempts I softened to him. Kindness made me quite the enemy to others however; the infernal naturally did not appreciate my deeds of pact breaking but saving the Duke anyway and pilfering the House of Hope, but to be fair Raphael (and his clear portrait of himself I clocked onto immediately when he was in his human guise to know he was untrustworthy) never repaid me in-game for 'killing' Yurgir, and Mizora would've squirmed a lot more in her Ilithid pod had it been a table interaction - though, the latter two were more than willing to help me with the Absolute, 'cept Raphael because he's dead - but in my defence I loved outwitting and being a sassy little shit to demons. Slaying the Chosen was a given, as a very Pro-Karlach guy I was never letting Gortash live, got the Father/Grandfather-Daughter set with Bhaal too. Killing the former Balduran was disappointing; as much as he was on my side he always felt like he had his own ulterior motives, he also had a superiority complex to him with his constant urging of being half-Ilithid; thinks it's not important that he's Balduran either, dismissing Ansur's legend until confronted by Ansur's spirit. Stealing the Orphic Hammer was an insurance policy at first, I could understand Voss' disdain for us using Githyanki Jesus in a box like a forcefield, but it's a shame that the guy who was all about trust decided not to trust me in releasing Orpheus; we could've stopped the brain together! Omeluum would've heard me out. I mean Orpheus was a bit salty but he at least was willing to negotiate and not immediately side back with the brain like a petty bitch. I'd say the gods have mixed feelings with me; friendly with Selune and Lathander at least, and whatever Withers is - though the guy roasted me about my love life. The rest either neutral or anti; Shar and Vlaakith (if you can call her a god) definitely hate me, because they're sore losers, think Myrkul and Bhaal likely hate me, Bane however seemed to respect game not sure how I feel about that. I don't quite like Mystra, think she's a bit extreme with her treatment of Gale, but I understand her role, valid god but shitty person. On the other hand I probably have Cyric's favour for helping the Strange Ox, which might be bad...but Milil was happy to be recognized.

In the end, most of the allies got to live somewhat happily; Gale got the orb out of him and became a professor, Lae'zel - having dealt the final blow to the brain - leads the charge against Vlaakith after Orpheus became a Mind Flayer and was mercy killed, Shadowheart has her family (Shar would've always been with her regardless of her choice), a bunch of pets and can maybe reminisce with Nocturne again one day, Jaheira and Minsc - once he survives Zhentharim execution, didn't realise I needed to have him talk to Nine Fingers - also can rest with her wards and probably share drinks with Nine Fingers until the next fight, Astarion sadly has no cure for vampirism but he is owning it and killing the right people (I like to think he'll get to see the sun again, maybe Omeluum and the Mycolids help), plus Halsin has a bunch of kids in Moonrise to look after, plus Thaniel, Oliver and a new Owlbear who I'd rather had left with Dammon given the option. Isobel and Aylin can settle down, Rolan runs the Sundries, Hope is free, Alfira and Lakrissa got their bard's school, Florrick and Ravengard resume leadership to rebuild, Dammon has his forge, Scratch found a new home in this Mindy (but I remain best master), Mol I'm sure will be running the Guildhall in a few years, Thrumbo has a shelter for his brothers, Mayrina will raise her son without the threat of a hag, Vanra won't become a hag (but does need therapy), and Arabella will probably be the next Withers after reading some more rocks. Yenna didn't seem to have an ending so I'll assume that she found a loving home too, maybe with Halsin or as one of Jaheira's wards, or maybe Gale wants a Sous Chef since she did bring her own carving knife if you didn't know. I wish Alfira got invited to the epilogue, god of song is fine but not the familiar face and it would've been cool for them to meet, nice to get a letter at least, and we'll have to visit Art's grave sometime. Surprised we got no word about Mizora, I didn't get a letter from Geraldus even though he survived, Naaber apparently had more in him after wanting to be a dog, sad not to get anything from Rolan, Devella (I know Valeria mentioned her but c'mon), the Gondians, Mol, Omeluum, or Aylin and Isobel from the epilogue, did we really need the ramblings of Ettvard? Plus the papers must've glitched they said Stelmane's killer was still at large? Post-credits scene felt a bit weak mind you, but guessing Withers is that old God of Death Jerghal? Least he's not a surprise villain to fight. As for me, well, I was never one to give up on people and neither is Dec, and thus Dec and Karlach brave Avernus to seek a fix for her infernal engine, punch a few demons and whatnot, Wyll is there too as the Blade of Avernus, a role he embraced twice after barely contributing to killing Ansur but that's more proximity. We'll chill in the House of Hope especially after her letter, but soon enough we'll all return to Faerun on a more permanent basis.

So you enjoyed it? Yes, very much. I did of course make a lot of mistakes though; kept forgetting about Dread Ambusher for one, my earlier failures at romance still stung, I think the game wasn't as welcoming to those unfamiliar to it. The dice did not like me many times, I once got a Nat 1 in a 2 DC with +2 bonus, I also have had several instances of back-to-back Nat 1s, even had 6 in two different streams. Combat was an adjustment period, I missed a lot of the time which was frustrating, or the enemy would make saving throws on my gambits, Karlach even got pushed into the abyss at the Temple of Bhaal, I was livid. I think I probably would've experienced more if the game established better that you can long rest as much as you like without turning into a Mind Flayer, because much of Act 1 was me reluctant to Long Rest because they say you can change 'within 2-3 days', as a result that affected some romance options too, nobody to spend the night with if there's no night, as well as other in-camp interactions - Astarion never tried to bite me for instance, and I'm sure Raphael would've arrived to reward me for killing Yurgir had we not dealt with a backlog of interactions. I remained quite the hesitant player too, I ignored Gale stuck in a portal for a while fearing some magical backlash was gonna vaporize me, oftentimes I expected worse than what actually happened. Graphically there were a few characters whose cheeks were being pulled to the far left side of the map which was weird, and some battles would have enemies who would just do nothing for their turns, and some areas didn't render quick enough to not be noticed, but it was small stuff in comparison, I didn't do much for camp clothes or dyes until late on but probably for the better since style should be for the final act. I also keep seeing stuff that I somehow missed in my playthrough; like there's an angry squirrel near the grove? A frog in Ethel's house? A bird who wanted help with the giant eagles? What? Where?

What was the most difficult part? Act 3 had a lot of tough shit going down, though one of my most memorable struggles was against Auntie Ethel in Act 1. Already deep in her domain at lv4 it was a rough run to start with, continually hit by Hold Person by her projections, only when I learned they were one-hits did it become a little easier, but without Extra Attack it was still difficult. After that combat was here and there, sometimes it was just the environment like being jammed in a pipe when fighting Minsc; Lorroakan was annoying, Grym I had to be tactical with the hammer, the Assassin at the Facemaker was quite difficult too because he'd Haste himself and hide. The Death Shepherds in the Mountain Pass were surprisingly difficult without the Blood of Lathander, much easier with its Sunbeam. The companion quest final battles of Cazador, Ansur and Viconia were each difficult in their own way; the former was most annoying because my party would be downed but the thrown healing potions weren't working (plus those downed members were the ones with Radiant damage and holy water), wasn't even Bone Chilled like with Viconia, Ansur was difficult because of his burst attack. Raphael hits fucking hard, but once I realised that Hope kept dying because she was getting backlash from dealing Radiant Damage it was just attrition and lots of potion throwing. Combat-wise I think the toughest battle was Cazador due to the glitch of thrown potions not healing, otherwise the toughest boss was Ansur. Overall the most difficult experience I found was the timed operations of the Iron Throne.

Will you play again? Most likely, which is something I don't tend to say so Larian did do their job well. Though I might wait a bit to play other games first and give Larian time to add more content and finer polishing, I think I'd have a better time with it the second time around, would definitely try to resolve previous wrongs or missed opportunities, though I doubt I'd look forward to everything there; killing the Goblin Camp was still difficult work, same with the Steel Watch and all the turn limit stuff, I'll at least wait until I have Extra Attack before dealing with Ethel in Act 1 and take more Long Rests, maybe rotate the party a bit more and try out some other classes - but you will pry Speak with Animals out of my cold dead hands! Learning later about there being a bunch of cut content would entice me to play a third time if they reach a stage where all the intended content has been added in, but there's not exactly a time frame for that or a clear show of intent so far, so we'll see in that one, for all that is cut it seems like the end product is the tip of the iceberg. Enjoyed the play, played for a long time, would play again: money well spent.

#baldur's gate 3 #bg3 #larian studios #karlach #shadowheart #lae'zel #astarion #jaheira #minsc and boo #minsc #halsin #wyll ravengard #gale dekarios #gale of waterdeep #bg3 tav #bg3 withers #it wouldn't have killed larian to give us more dice skins too just sayin'#but I loved that they added little messages in the credits

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danwhobrowses · 2 months

Text

One Piece Chapter 1109 - Initial Thoughts

Late on arrival but finally we're back to One Piece

The old stella is likely dead, but he's left a big broadcast behind Is he gonna spill all the tea? Let's not wait any longer

Spoilers for the Chapter, Support the Official Release

We're getting a Wano cover story now too, starting with Onigashima sent underwater (ok but how like it's massive!) atop Old Wano

I wonder what it'll focus on particularly? Yamato? Momo? Tama? Kaido and Big Mom statuses? Drake and Hawkins statuses?

Vegapunk's message however is a bit of a tease because of course it is

Shaka chimes in to mention how such a message will likely be blocked and intercepted, so they discuss piggybacking off of the Navy's comms

Thus, the Navy are unable to stop the transmission, as it spreads across everyone who has a Den Den Mushi

Vegapunk though also wants to provide time for people to set up the Visual snails for a picture, which'd take time for them to set up

Vegapunk gives people an hour, but Shaka advises against that since there will be those looking to censor them, so it's reduced to 10 minutes

Luffy and the crew are aware of this broadcast as well, they are curious about it though

Sanji just take a pulse and give it up

The Gorosei can still converse with Saturn all the way from Marejois!? Is it some telepathy maybe?

Saturn all but confirms that Vegapunk is dead, telling the others that Kizaru dealt a killing blow

But they are quick to realise that the message is as a result of a dead man's switch

Focus looks to turn onto the Labophase, despite being highly protected...nobody tell them that Kizaru can pass through the barrier

Pythagoras also chips in on the message for what they should do during the wait, since having a coffee may not be a good amount of time

The world is preparing for Vegapunk's message, including places we're familiar with

Dressrosa first; Kyros and Rebecca seemed to have been sparring

Leo is alive and well after his incident with Marejois, but true to the Tontatta he bought into the headlines that Luffy kidnapped Vegapunk

Foosha Village are also hearing about it, but they don't have a video screen, because iconic mayor Woop Slap don't have the money

Here's hoping they don't miss something important there, and that Makino is safe, the bar doesn't look damaged at least

The village already think this is gonna be Luffy slander anyway

At Water Seven it's late at night, so Iceberg is tired but amassing screens anyway, conducted mainly by Alice, the child assistant who is way past her own bedtime

But she does have Tyrannosaurus on her head so we'll give it a pass, she's in capable paws

Morgans also has the video up, with Vivi still worried about the crew

Morgans is quick to deduce that it's a pre-recorded message though, but expects that Egghead has already been wiped out

The other seas also prepare for Vegapunk's message, it must be kinda surreal for some of them since this is the first time they're seeing Vegapunk - plus there's 3 of them

Plus all 3 of the Vegapunks in the message are dead

The Revolutionaries also have the message, wondering what it's gonna be about

Dragon thinks back about Shaka's message though, and then continues to not do anything else

At the least there's a Sabo cameo there

Back to Luffy and he notes how Saturn and Kizaru keep coming back for more

He dodges an Eye Laser and a Poison leg, but he doesn't relinquish his hold

He's gonna keep fighting till his crew are safe

Gomu Gomu No Booming Dawn Cymbal squishes Admiral and Gorosei together

And with both flattened he continues the disrespect, spinning them like pizza dough

And then flinging them away like frisbees

Kizaru crashes into a warship, but Saturn pulls some boomerang action to come back at Luffy

Kizaru has had a headache just all day, serves him right too

Luffy avoids the poisonous buzzsaw return that Saturn poses, but the other Gorosei are intent to not let Vegapunk's message go out

Franky, Bonney, Kuma and Atlas make it to the Giants' ship, but still no word on Lucci vs Zoro, or how the Sunny intends to not crash into the barrier

Saturn agrees with his fellow Gorosei 'I shall perform the summoning'

Four cracks of black lightning strike Egghead

And now, there are Five.

Oh god oh jeez oh god oh jeez oh GOD oh jeez ALL THE GOROSEI ARE HERE.

I don't think Luffy can last a 5 on 1 of the Gorosei, Zoro stop dicking around with Lucci, Sanji you gotta drop the old man, Jinbe navigate Zoro and yourself to Luffy and someone else come for support (Robin is injured plus she would be a focus target so probably not her, Usopp? Nami? Brook? Chopper?), or maybe the Giants can back him up? Or the Sleeping Giant?

Things are heating up but now we have more situations to deal with; we can't leave the island too soon or else the Gorosei will stop the message, but if we linger then the Gorosei could do a lot of damage.

There's a break to deal with first of course, but god(a) we need some answers! And we need some things to wrap up, because we still don't have a solution for how those in the Labophase are gonna get out, also I hope Sentomaru got out, bit of a rough day for him; the man he was hired to protect died at the hands of his 'uncle', he betrayed the marines for the former and it was for naught, gotta feel bad for the guy.

We might be seeing all of the Gorosei's powers next chapter though, but it makes you wonder, if all five are here does that mean they won't be in the endgame?

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