New Family Member

Say hello to the newest member of the Stronghold family!

A relative had him show up and try to adopt himself into their family. They weren't able to keep another dog and were ready to make a trip to the Humane Society. Instead, we spoke up. I've wanted another dog since our last dog passed away last year after 16 years.

We're not sure exactly what he is: he seems to be a lab mix, possibly an Australian Shepherd/Labrador mix. He seems to be in good health: a trip to the vet for a check-up is forthcoming.

He's quite lovable and has taken to the wife and kids very well. He IS a bit skittish and nervous, and the way he acts when you try and pet him? It seems as though he's been hit enough to be scared of a raised hand. It appears as though we've rescued him from more than just the pound.

Honestly, it's just really nice to have a dog around the castle again.

New Critters, Part 1

Courtesy of one of my more recent favorite blog finds, Monsters and Manuals, I was reminded of a great random generator site, The Forge (thanks to noisms' post here).

The Forge is a random generator for names: spells, creatures, places, and "general" fantasy names. I spent a little while playing with it after reading the post at Monsters and Manuals to renew my acquaintance with the engine. While you occasionally get something that makes little or no rational sense, more often than not you get a great thought-provoking ember.

The first four creatures' names The Forge generated for me are as follows:

1. Howler Snake


2. Arm Spider


3. Shard Fish


4. Wind Starfish

All of these are perfectly servicable and, in fact, bring some terrific images to mind. Now all I have to do is craft some stats to go with them.

Yeah. I have PLENTY of time for that after a week away from the office.

Crap. [sigh]

Thanks, noisms. Thanks a heck of a lot.... Actually, I truly mean that. Thanks for the reminder about The Forge.

Note: I promise, there will be some posts of substance coming soon. Really, I promise. I owe a massive amount of Joesky tax right now.

X is for X'rr

Waulker, the half-orc, traveling home after discharge from the Army came across a dying baboon in a trap. He released the baboon and nursed it back to health. Since that time, it has been a constant companion to Waulker, and has even grown to tolerate Vesseth. Between the two of them, they have given it some rudimentary training and X’rr responds to some simple commands, although only if given by either Waulker or Vesseth. Many in Coldtreath had never before seen a baboon before X’rr, and many are still startled or scared when they come in contact with him, although they commonly remark at X’rr’s dog-like loyalty.