A dual screenshot thread, for a pair of still-living-but-retired characters, which I am starting off:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Character_zpsddee5d2c.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Character_zpsddee5d2c.jpg.html%22)
Zsigmond Kadar began as a concept I had which was very simple:
Quote from: "Vault Shrike's Inner Monologue""Let us," I said aloud within the confines of my domicile, "make a character so that we can learn the underdark and see how it has changed."
"Very good," I replied to myself, "though he probably won't last very long."
"Hmm. Good point. Though, he should have a goal. Maybe a Seeker-candidate? I heard they were interesting."
"Alright, but still. Let's not get too attached. He'll last maybe a week."
[hide="Backstory"]
Zsigmond was born in the lands of Aglarond, the enchanted land of the Simbul's fame and the large Yuirwood forest encompassing much of the central reaches of the peninsula. He was trained early on as a hunter and poacher, developing a keen sense of how to manage the forests and their inhabitants. As he grew older, his talents were noticed both by the residents of the Yuirwood's outskirts where he hunted and in the villages and towns where he would bring his game. Eventually, he was taken on by a minor noble near Halendos to train and become his Master of the Hunt. He was taught to read, write, manage basic numerics, and behave as a man of good character by a traveling Oghmite priest while in this area, as the young man adapted to his new life in the service of the nobility.
Living three years in relative comfort, his illusions of a comparatively peaceful life where his talents would be widely appreciated were shattered with the Death of Mystra and the Darkening that swiftly followed. In subsequent weeks, he clawed his way through an apocalyptic hellscape of a dying Yuirwood, he evaded the enthralled scouts which began to ravage his homeland while aiding any of those he could find in the wilderness. His skills served him well indeed, keeping him fed and alive while the rest of the world starved under a sunless sky. He stumbled across a portal to Sanctuary after nearly one full month of traveling, arriving into the Underdark with a capable mind and agile body.
[/hide]
I expected him to last a grand total of a week, given the horrors that lurked beyond the shield. His goals were far-off dreams, thing that would never actually be achieved, as I used him as a stepping stone to bigger and better characters. Gods alive, how he surprised me.
Zsigmond had the distinct honor of having contributed to the stories of hundreds of PCs over the course of his life, through hundreds of patrols, expeditions into the 'dark, speeches, induction ceremonies, plotting, etc. He came to be far more than his humble origins as a trapper and poacher in old Aglarond, founding the Wayfinders with Patrice Vermand, building it up, breaking it down during the Revolution, building it up once again, and leading it forward with the aid a certain (very promising) new Lieutenant.
The Wayfinders would become an association, moving from one (crossroad bunker) Wayfinder Hall, into another (rented barracks) Wayfinder Hall, into a final (formal faction hall) Wayfinder Hall. Their concept was simple - scouts for Sanctuary - but they became far more than that. Anyone who has not tried playing a character in the Wayfinders (//%22http://www.efupw.com/forums/showthread.php?t=82272%22), or who has not
recently done so, I can but issue my strongest possible recommendation for the quality of both characters and faction.
He saw the rise and fall of men of power and influence, watched as the city tore itself apart in Revolution, witnessed the horrific machinations of the Fey, and scoured the entirety of the accessible Underdark. He taught souls about the dangers of the outlands, trying to save lives wherever he could. He lead an expedition to the surface with the Wayfinders as a whole, rescuing Causril Commune and their leader. He told countless stories, about old Nalrae, for one, and wrote poetry (//%22http://www.efupw.com/forums/showthread.php?t=89317%22) (even if it was not very good). Not to mention, he was married to someone he loved in a ceremony where no bombs exploded.
Zsigmond has in his time in Sanctuary gone from Seeker-potential to active counter-revolutionary, from wide-eyed idealist to a hardened, if still optimistic leader of men.
Now, he continues to 'see' all of this, the blind Wayfinder-Captain, stewarding knowledge and good sense in the outlands - hopefully playing a role in the future of Sanctuary.
It is not individual PCs that make this server great, but the dynamic, group storytelling that we are engaged in. Zsigmond would not have been an interesting character, would not have been fun to play over these past months and months, were it not for the server as a whole. With special thanks to
Patrice Vermand,
Gwyneth DeVries,
Abala Quickfeet, Mikael Galeno, Every Single Wayfinder, and last but hardly least, eponymous with the title,
Charlene Carshby/Kadar.
Warm Thanks and Regards, EFU:R. You might see them again as NPCs! Screenshots to follow Bouquet of Roses' post!
Charlene Carshby/Charlene Kadar
Sometimes,
A character we write grows a life of their own,
So independent from waking thought,
That they surprise us at every page.
I made Charlene with one single, easy-to-do purpose. Get to know the new chapter. A previous catburglar, I thought, with a flair for intrigue and secrets!
Little did I know what that thought would lead to.
Some might remember her early days, masquerading as a merchant for the good of the common people- Earning little gold, and what she did earn, put towards charitable endeavours. It was, of course, all a front. Behind the facade was an ever increasing network of contacts and informants, keeping her up-to-date on darkly affairs.
She was meant, from the beginning, to be mostly apathetic to the world (TN, for those of you who never guessed, if any!), and even the plight it was suffering. She simply wanted to learn, grow, and earn a position of influence.
To say she succeeded would be an understatement.
She also happened to be a pretty good manipulator! Most she ever interacted with ended up serving a purpose in her machinations, one way or another.
Especially those who thought to challenge her. There's not a single clear case of her having come out not on top!
She shared her backstory with a select few, but, here's a snippet for those of you who weren't among them!
Charlene Carshby was born in the merchant city of Marsember, the only child of a failing, fat merchant and human being, and was raised with one single purpose. To be married off to a rivalling merchant clan, slowly edge out her husband through cunning and aptitude with merchanting, and revive Carshby Imports.
Luckily, the darkening arrived only some few darks before the wedding was to, finally, take place.
However, having been bored out of her skull with lessons of merchanting and wifery, the inquisitive youth found another life for herself, in the dark of night.
Needless to say, playing Charlene was immensely fun. I got to learn all sorts of things about the server (And if you've never done much exploration- Go do it. You don't even need a real reason, just do it. It's definitely worth it.) and interact with all sorts of characters.
I have, as always, sucked at screenshots. So there's very few, -but-! I've got loot ones, thanks to the graceful DM staff for allowing me to take them post-retirement <.<
[Hide="Screenies"]Being the boss: Charlene found it terribly amusing when other Wayfinders would come to her, before being "promoted" to Lieutenant by Zsigmond (A rank, incidentally, she "helped" him come up with.)
(http://i.imgur.com/dl7BRPu.jpg)
Thank for pissing off the medusa mid-conversation: A Wayfinder recruit and his son brought terrible news to Sanctuary, of a band of lizardfolk gathering in the windy canyon. Negotiation talks went well!
(http://i.imgur.com/ja3zy7F.jpg)
A moment of weakness: Charlene was quite different in private, from her public appearance. She put alot of effort into creating the public image she would come to be known by. But life wasn't always so easy.
(http://i.imgur.com/yBfdToM.jpg)
And that's actually it. What others I have I've classified as spoilers, considering she's still alive, so you'll have to find out the hard way!
However:
Loot.
You'll also note the -immaculate- neatness of my inventory towards the end.
Keep your inventory clean, kids! It'll help you stay alive!
Early prediction- Charlene was, indeed, a winner.
(http://i.imgur.com/7zLIQHq.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/wAfuixc.jpg)
Saving Talos priests from Chosen was something of a hobby.
(http://i.imgur.com/7x2957h.jpg)
A sash earned by leading a Wayfinder Expedition into the eastern height of the Windy Canyon, surpassing even what the Seekers of Old had managed (Thanks, LiAlH4!):
(http://i.imgur.com/bewwkke.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/lOSdq4K.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/DeXfm6V.jpg)
She earned this cloak by saving an immensely powerful wizard from a self-inflicted lycanthropic curse, by bribing, stealing and otherwise underhandedly acquiring a ton of different reagents, and, under threat of a giant looming werewolf, figuring out which six, in which order, to put into a kettle. (Thanks, BoM! An -awesome- quest.)
(http://i.imgur.com/8xCcjUe.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/vybQjkx.jpg)
And last, but not least, the suit of leathers that caused so much controversy, doubt and idle whisperings by simply being drow-made. The "How" will have to stay secret, for now!
(http://i.imgur.com/m2H1x7r.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/XzXXClf.jpg)
[/hide]
And that's all.
It has, as said, been an amazing ride, with an amazing development and story- And I'm immensely satisfied with how it turned out.
There have been so many major figured in her life, and all of them were, in some way or other, the cause for one or more actions taken later on.
From catburglar secret-keeper to resident Spymaster of the Wayfinders- It's been quite a journey.
Thanks, EfU.
And I'll see you again soon.
Much love!
Oh, gem tally!
Rubies: 2
Diamonds: 5
Topaz': 5
Fire Opals: 5
Fire Agates: 3
Sapphires: 8
Emeralds: 28
Amethysts (Her secret favourites): 26
Garnets: 49
Aventurines: 41
Phenalopies: 34
Pink ones (I forgot their name, alright!?): 38
Malachites: 43
Greenstones: 66
Not bad, I think!
Here follow Zsigmond's screenshots! I hope you enjoy, they're filed carefully so that this thread does not become an impossible mess.
[hide="Early Screenshots"]
From the beginning, he would lead men into the underdark. "Lead" being a strong word, as in those days none of us had much of a clue in which direction we were going! Look, he doesn't even have a cloak!
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_EarlyPatrol_zps1eca2e17.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_EarlyPatrol_zps1eca2e17.jpg.html%22)
Come on, fellows, let's go exploring!
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_EarlyPatro2_zpse7014c9c.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_EarlyPatro2_zpse7014c9c.jpg.html%22)
Some of the Early Wayfinders, with a gaggle of souls accompanying us into the depths. How deep we delved, looking upon horrors innumerable:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_EarlyPatrol3_zpse9fccb93.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_EarlyPatrol3_zpse9fccb93.jpg.html%22)
He knew all of the major-faces from the early days, including the wonderful Renée Greystarred and her Paperwork Elemental, Inkfingers.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Inkfingers_zps49dbcce6.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Inkfingers_zps49dbcce6.jpg.html%22)
He had a steel-trap for a mind, piecing together bits of lore from disparate parts of the server. The Wayfinder archives might just be one of the best repositories for server history outside the Library!
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Mouse_zps43bcfc5f.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Mouse_zps43bcfc5f.jpg.html%22)
Building the Wayfinders up to resemble the association they would become was a process of trial and error - mostly error. They were split during the Workmill Revolution. Beforehand, we over-estimated, dramatically, the willingness of a Black Directorate to consider adding a scouting corps to the retinue of formalized organizations. Still, Patrice Vermand (Garem) in his prime:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Patrice_zps1a0ee64c.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Patrice_zps1a0ee64c.jpg.html%22)
Scrapper-con, Mk. I :
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Scrappercon_zps1efbebc0.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Scrappercon_zps1efbebc0.jpg.html%22)
He taught literally hundreds of characters the lay of the land, as best I could envision it. Maps exist in the library and Wayfinder archives detailing the very areas Zsigmond describes here:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_ZsigmondCartographer_zps3d1f9109.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_ZsigmondCartographer_zps3d1f9109.jpg.html%22)
Sometimes, people had to die. He put a bolt through this halfling's head not a second later.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/JustBefore_zps48f19e81.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/JustBefore_zps48f19e81.jpg.html%22)
A good friend in Aethereal's Arantras; here he is calling upon a hurricane. What is your little shortbow going to do, Zsigmond? Can you even hit that behemoth?
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Arantras_zps1a6b99d3.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Arantras_zps1a6b99d3.jpg.html%22)
A Lado gas-gauntlet, one of two very similar hellscapes that Zsigmond plowed through, at the helm of the company. Most of our fighters abandoned us. You know things are going badly when a rogue with 12 strength is taking the fore against chosen with a non-finessable weapon. That was the whole damn event:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_ChosenHell2_zpsd8bf04a6.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_ChosenHell2_zpsd8bf04a6.jpg.html%22)
Mysariel, pre-Agent Grayson Epps, Zsigmond's good friend Ordinant Abelard, and many other souls of note, visible here fighting for their lives:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_ChosenHell_zps834019c6.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_ChosenHell_zps834019c6.jpg.html%22)
Perhaps the most important event from the early-days, where Zsigmond, Patrice, Gwyneth, and the others you see here ventured unto the surface at the bidding of the Spellguard and Chandry Sembrash, Scout First Class of Causril Commune. The very expedition which would solidify their goals in Sanctuary:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_CausrilII_zps9787ca00.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_CausrilII_zps9787ca00.jpg.html%22)
Another shot of the same. Alas, the fighting was too hectic above for me to get screenshots, but I do have a view to the result. Here, they're still preparing to leave:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_CausrilIII_zpsfd33c89b.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_CausrilIII_zpsfd33c89b.jpg.html%22)
Eat your heart out, Artorix. Look what we brought to the depths:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_CausrilIV_zps992cf09d.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_CausrilIV_zps992cf09d.jpg.html%22)
Before Revolution and Treason approached, Zsigmond was a part of the Cult of the Ascention's rebirth, through Sigvar Fjordmund. He was still, then, the wide-eyed idealist, unprepared for the bloodshed that breaking the chains of men would require. A ritual:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Ascent_zpsfcf421cf.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Ascent_zpsfcf421cf.jpg.html%22)
As all of this progressed, Zsigmond and the Wayfinders were roped into the doings of the Archaeological Society - aiding an old man named Djalbo in recovering his old laboratory. We needed to find Drow Azure Wine, so we ambushed and slew a group of four. Turns out we missed the fifth. He didn't forget. At least you tried some gambit, Zsigmond. Gods, you're dense sometimes:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Vrath1_zps93c962cc.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Vrath1_zps93c962cc.jpg.html%22)
Zsigmond believed himself to be a traitor, for what happened here. Knowing or not, under (prior) threat of others being murdered in his stead, or not, he gave up the secret! It tore him apart, in the aftermath, and he resolved to kill the Drow and end the shame, or die in the attempt. Here he is walking back, contemplating all that was said, what he had done:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Vrath_zpsa0dca873.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Vrath_zpsa0dca873.jpg.html%22)
Djalbo, sending us into hell. Who knew, he would betray us? Vrathruil, actually:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Djibao_zpsc4da7374.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Djibao_zpsc4da7374.jpg.html%22)
We passed a hellscape of obelisks, obtained a terrible coded stream of numbers, solved and decoded said terrible stream of numbers, and passed through a vast and ancient illithid laboratory:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Djibao2_zps94ebbf2e.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Djibao2_zps94ebbf2e.jpg.html%22)
Djalbo, you son of a bitch. Take Gwyenth's magnificent brain and put it into your grand-daughter so that she can 'live' a normal life, putting her brain into the stunted child? Monstrous. As it turns out, however, Vrathruil intervened. He killed Zsigmond and half the party, dragged him toward a cliff to end it all - and Drake Pierre Ridelle stepped in to save him. He got cut down too, so it fell to Gwyenth and Patrice - they pulled it off. Screenshots, alas, from the fugue, so this one will have to do:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Djibao3_zps640b5361.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Djibao3_zps640b5361.jpg.html%22)
Not a casualty of this particular fight, but of a prior encounter. Mouse the Wayfinder, you are remembered, as many of his friends and comrades got proper funerals:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_EarlyDeath_zps50db7a82.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_EarlyDeath_zps50db7a82.jpg.html%22)
Dark times ahead. Thomas Blanqui, addressing the adventurers. Can you hear the people sing? Zsigmond couldn't, for all the blood that demagogue spilled:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_RevolutionStart_zps1807daf6.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_RevolutionStart_zps1807daf6.jpg.html%22)
The Workmill Revolution tore the Wayfinders apart. The Ascention went one way, Zsigmond went another; its membership was gutted, leaving Kadar as one of the few loyal to the powers-that-be. The idealist, you see, was witness to the first riot, where men of Blanqui killed dozens in the streets. No, that was not a man to be followed:
A run-in with Mad-Marge. Another individual who Zsigmond had sympathies for, until she started cutting people up:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Youtookmyringyoubitch_zpsffc235a3.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Youtookmyringyoubitch_zpsffc235a3.jpg.html%22)
Preparing to put down the Revolution, once and for all. The Manor:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_RevolutionStartII_zps99fee028.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_RevolutionStartII_zps99fee028.jpg.html%22)
Hacking our way through the Manor:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_0005a_zps8f4b2035.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_0005a_zps8f4b2035.jpg.html%22)
Thomas Blanqui, laid to rest:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_0006a_zpsde4548da.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_0006a_zpsde4548da.jpg.html%22)
[/hide]
With the end of the Revolution, what I would call the first part of Zsigmond's story was ended, with the Wayfinders shattered and Kadar standing atop the mess. He would in the darks to come help bring down and carry in many of his former compatriots in the Ascention, hunting former-friends in the outlands for what he saw as their betrayal - putting aside notions of his own, which he had bled for against Vrathruil. No screenshots of Drake Ridelle's capture, for example, but what followed was Kadar trying (unsuccessfully) to rebuild by aiding the factions of Sanctuary wherever he could.
[hide="Middle-Period Screenshots"]
He followed Abelard of the Society into a horrible madhouse, saving two children who were so dearly happy to be reunited with their 'parents':
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Ma-Pa_zpse462240f.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Ma-Pa_zpse462240f.jpg.html%22)
Abelard, why, why, why did you demand we take them back? Look what I did to recover your broken corpse. Anything for a friend, however ignominious:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Ma-Pa2_zpsb7bf3d92.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Ma-Pa2_zpsb7bf3d92.jpg.html%22)
During this period, he cemented friendships which he would keep until the present. Blake Kendon, Abala Quickfeet, Rallick Dess, and many others. Cementing relationships through shared experiences, as we set out to rescue someone at the behest of a Spellguard Agent:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Munt1_zps6e0565d0.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Munt1_zps6e0565d0.jpg.html%22)
Alright, we've had better ideas before, it's true:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_ReallyBadIdea_zps5aa3b80f.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_ReallyBadIdea_zps5aa3b80f.jpg.html%22)
Droggus Munt, in his IRON MUNT suit. Son of a bitch.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Munt2_zps5502f6d1.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Munt2_zps5502f6d1.jpg.html%22)
Moggus Drunt, before climbing into his adamant DRUNT SUIT. Gods damn it.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Munt3_zpsdcea4743.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Munt3_zpsdcea4743.jpg.html%22)
It all worked out, we pushed him into lava:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_0013_zpsfb819b8e.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_0013_zpsfb819b8e.jpg.html%22)
"Laying to rest" an old friend:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Ananfel_zps9299153e.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Ananfel_zps9299153e.jpg.html%22)
Zsigmond, you have terrible ideas sometimes. Look at this. WHY WOULD ANYONE OPEN THAT? 10 Wisdom is why, I suppose.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_BadIdea2_zps02c325f0.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_BadIdea2_zps02c325f0.jpg.html%22)
Thank you for a brief moment of common sense:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_GoodMoveZsigmond_zps1a80687e.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_GoodMoveZsigmond_zps1a80687e.jpg.html%22)
We fought our way through a terrifying nest of animatrons, defense obelisks, and gas. Then, we met X-ABY. Whose children and friends, we had killed. To the very. last. animatron.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_XABY_zps13455f05.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_XABY_zps13455f05.jpg.html%22)
This really could have gone better, with some planning:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_XABY2_zps53cbf9db.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_XABY2_zps53cbf9db.jpg.html%22)
Drow. Drow loathed Zsigmond, for whatever reason. Likely because he kept killing them - upwards of twenty-four slain by his hand, to date. Here is a Noctuvirite who thought to lure travelers into a trap along the Low Road, a road of single coins in a line... we put a stop to that (with a character named Daria's help)!
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Jenezeah_zps303b4623.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Jenezeah_zps303b4623.jpg.html%22)
Even enthralled Drow took an interest in him:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_IntryzzDrow_zpscf87de45.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_IntryzzDrow_zpscf87de45.jpg.html%22)
Can't trust druids that might be involved with Tulathek! Zsigmond's competence at remaining hidden in the wilds made him a potent adversary, even if he lacked much in melee until late in his career.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Spy_zpsb6e0eaf8.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Spy_zpsb6e0eaf8.jpg.html%22)
Don't approach that, Zsigmond. DO NOT approach that...
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Fey_zps69ca6e4b.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Fey_zps69ca6e4b.jpg.html%22)
Wretched aberrants. But Kadar knows (via Blake Kendon) to disguise himself with pheromones from their glands!
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Ettercap_zps258d78b9.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Ettercap_zps258d78b9.jpg.html%22)
Charging in to clear out a Moanderite lizardfolk hive along the Scamander! Zsigmond was wearing a gas-mask:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Lizardmen_zps42423fe3.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Lizardmen_zps42423fe3.jpg.html%22)
Poor Drogor. We should really be glad the Forge of Legend is under new management:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Drogor_zpsbd6af93b.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Drogor_zpsbd6af93b.jpg.html%22)
I wonder who did this painting?
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_AdmiringaPainting_zps1dfc7135.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_AdmiringaPainting_zps1dfc7135.jpg.html%22)
Action shot! That is Jenezeah Tel'Questrimm's helm.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_ActionShot_zps41cb8c2b.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_ActionShot_zps41cb8c2b.jpg.html%22)
[/hide]
[hide="Amusing Interlude"]
During this period, I decided that enough was enough - having Harper Scout levels was good and all, for leading people, but Zsigmond was still a 10 CHA character. I had him de-leveled from 9 to 2, so that I could re-choose the 4 and 8 stat points to get 12 CHA. Not long after, an application for the Commander rogue perk was approved as well. Dedication pays off, I suppose, but one DM took umbridge with my decision:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Ghost_zps9e12f6c6.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Ghost_zps9e12f6c6.jpg.html%22)
[/hide]
The period of general forays and attempts to keep the Wayfinders afloat with one or two members came to an end with Wayfinder Charlene Carshby, who Zsigmond had known for ages by this point. They would be molded, with her influence into quite the force indeed, as Carshby added a flair of intrigue and information-gathering that was lacking since the days of Gwyenth, improving on the model by having the proven advantage of Being Alive. Not to mention, a far more profound impact on Zsigmond himself, helping the war-weary counter-Revolutionary into a role as not a leader of rabble, but actual disciplined men.
[hide="Late Screenshots/Endlude"]
Here's the moment that things really changed:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Oath_zpse66af145.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Oath_zpse66af145.jpg.html%22)
They rapidly began to grow...
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_WayfinderInduction_zps8b31a071.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_WayfinderInduction_zps8b31a071.jpg.html%22)
New Model Wayfinders, on the march, exploring exciting tunnels!
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_HighPassages_zpsb73c8495.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_HighPassages_zpsb73c8495.jpg.html%22)
Look, Splints is tanking ALL OF THEM. Move forward, damn it! Wayfinder expeditions often attracted the love of DMs, presumably because we are easy to spice, in the wilds!
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Goblins_zps7277e8e1.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Goblins_zps7277e8e1.jpg.html%22)
A pivotal moment, the trial he faced for treason. It wasn't his fault the Drow got to the gates of Sanctuary, but some people in authority needed a scapegoat. Prefect Quickfeet, presiding...
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Treason_zps640c8945.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Treason_zps640c8945.jpg.html%22)
Thank you so much for that very encouraging tell.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_TreasonII_zps17661c5e.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_TreasonII_zps17661c5e.jpg.html%22)
The verdict. In his mind, this was resolution for Vrathruil - he defended Sanctuary to the last then, he did so here, but he had to face charges at some point, even if they were wrongly-placed.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_TreasonIII_zps07285791.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_TreasonIII_zps07285791.jpg.html%22)
A Wayfinder patrol rescued a trio of slaves from Duergar. Turns out they were working for more Dread masters... fall here, my friend, and you might be in dire peril. We held, driving off the menace, and withdrew successfully through the narrows! See? We learn from treason trials.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Ysinode_zps7e763d80.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Ysinode_zps7e763d80.jpg.html%22)
Commanding the Wayfinders. Melanie Coppertop and Carys Greycoin both deserve a special mention. Dominic here as well!
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Wayfinders_zps4a992527.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Wayfinders_zps4a992527.jpg.html%22)
Alright, well, we're in a moving tram filling rapidly with water. We've been through worse, right? Right.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_ChosenHell4_zpseb543f80.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_ChosenHell4_zpseb543f80.jpg.html%22)
The real reason Director Quickfeet stopped going into the outlands so regularly:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_ChosenHell3_zpsd079dd1a.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_ChosenHell3_zpsd079dd1a.jpg.html%22)
During the election, we played host to a meeting to draw down tensions, with Zsigmond fearful of a repeat of the Revolution. It worked, to an extent!
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Wecanbecivil_zpse682554f.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Wecanbecivil_zpse682554f.jpg.html%22)
I never liked the name, "Wayfinder Arts and Trades". :P
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Aww_zps83d62cd1.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Aww_zps83d62cd1.jpg.html%22)
Giving long, drawn-out speeches was Zsigmond's modus operandi. Here he is after a five-minute discourse, before minting Wayfinder Booker.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Wayfinders3_zps10534c6b.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Wayfinders3_zps10534c6b.jpg.html%22)
Promotions!
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Wayfinders2_zpsa3c28f32.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Wayfinders2_zpsa3c28f32.jpg.html%22)
Stalking through the depths - I wonder how this fight turned out? I'll spoil it - Zsigmond lost. Quaregg the mighty!
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Waiting_zpsb49bf785.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Waiting_zpsb49bf785.jpg.html%22)
Chaathi, a very old friend of Zsigmond's, slain after repeated conflicts which had brought them to blows. She had attacked the Wayfinders, who he regarded as family, and his response was dire. The blade is detailed in the loot section. Much love to Fitzwilliam for an excellent PC.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_PoorChaathi_zps433ceb8e.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_PoorChaathi_zps433ceb8e.jpg.html%22)
In contrast to Chaathi, this was a scary goddamn tiefling who deserved to die.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Cutthroat_zpsb36acef8.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Cutthroat_zpsb36acef8.jpg.html%22)
No, you do not get to try and assassinate him and live.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Cold_zpsff954e4f.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Cold_zpsff954e4f.jpg.html%22)
Dark Lake conflict, Zsigmond & Company meeting with the Drow. There is a Drow standing not ten paces in front of you, Kadar, stop looking at Carshby.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_ThereAreDrowRightThere_zps513f5e58.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_ThereAreDrowRightThere_zps513f5e58.jpg.html%22)
The Wayfinders, FORMALLY CHARTERED as an ASSOCIATION!
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Chartered_zpsa6b55eb9.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Chartered_zpsa6b55eb9.jpg.html%22)
Negotiations.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Negotiations_zps601154ce.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Negotiations_zps601154ce.jpg.html%22)
A scavenger hunt, through all of Sanctuary. This new character got quite the introduction, courtesy of Golden Rose, who had the stealth to remain hidden and enough paper to put out reams of little notes through the underdark. A fantastic, unnerving way to announce your presence while stealthed.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_ScavengerHunt_zpsad3260a6.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_ScavengerHunt_zpsad3260a6.jpg.html%22)
Zsigmond had EFUSS Entertainment at good levels, so that he could sing. In the style of Fafhrd of Fritz Leiber, he sang in a mid-to-high tenor, well above his speaking voice at a baritone.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_NeverFalter_zps2c9568d4.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_NeverFalter_zps2c9568d4.jpg.html%22)
Chartered by the Directorate, the Wayfinders had their own Hall, in north-eastern Sanctuary.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_WayfinderHall_zpsf50d3e16.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_WayfinderHall_zpsf50d3e16.jpg.html%22)
Patrolling the Lowerdark.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Lowerdark_zps65aaa915.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Lowerdark_zps65aaa915.jpg.html%22)
Patrolling the Low Road.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_LightssoPretty_zpsd892f46e.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_LightssoPretty_zpsd892f46e.jpg.html%22)
No happier dark, for the Wayfinder-Captain:
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Wedding_zps05f34de7.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Wedding_zps05f34de7.jpg.html%22)
Zsigmond first met Nalrae in the very opening months, when he and Ordinant Horace Walbrooke took to the Spire with a company of other worthy souls. To save Horace (in his mind), Zsigmond offered himself up as the 'hunted' in a little game, racing to the shore of the Dark Lake. Nalrae, it turns out, wanted to play another game...
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Nalrae_zps89cc94f9.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Nalrae_zps89cc94f9.jpg.html%22)
Kadar had a hell of a vision for the Drow, for Captain D'rul, Nalrae said. Quite the vision indeed. May I take your vision back to my Captain, Zsigmond?
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Nalrae2_zps6946c2e2.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Nalrae2_zps6946c2e2.jpg.html%22)
A word of comfort, after reeling from the shock of the loss of his sight. After putting his hand to her face -
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Daww_zps7998e782.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Daww_zps7998e782.jpg.html%22)
After his return, the Herald in the House of Heroes (responding to some vitriol toward a new arrival from Zsigmond) bid him depart, as it was not a 'house for the blind'. You picked a good one, Kadar.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Hepickedagoodone_zpsac1e3b98.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Hepickedagoodone_zpsac1e3b98.jpg.html%22)
Honored by the Directorate, bestowed the Sanctuary Cross.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Endlude1_zpsda64e5b4.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Endlude1_zpsda64e5b4.jpg.html%22)
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Endlude2_zpse4499578.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Endlude2_zpse4499578.jpg.html%22)
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Endlude3_zpsb5b03c6d.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Endlude3_zpsb5b03c6d.jpg.html%22)
[/hide]
I was able to give him one last speech, before he was retired with his wife, alive and largely whole. It was a good and worthy end, not due in the slightest to the blindness. As for the speech and aftermath - if anyone screenshotted that, I'd be appreciative, as I was ordered to log off.
Thank you again for reading. :)
Loot now included! Hardly all of it, but major/influential/amusing pieces:
[hide="Loot"]
Zsigmond's first quarterstaff was actually DM-made, but more of a flavor-oriented combat weapon that you can see him wielding in the 'early days'. His real quarterstaff, which was actually the no-damage walking stick you see here, was made by BigOrcMan; pried out of the jaws of the horrible laboratory where Djalbo's plot came to naught and old Vrathruil, the Carver of Hearts, was melted by acid.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_LootWanderlust_zps1e53f823.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_LootWanderlust_zps1e53f823.jpg.html%22)
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_LootWanderlust2_zps07ba8dee.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_LootWanderlust2_zps07ba8dee.jpg.html%22)
Droggus Munt, after helping IRON MUNT. Not especially noteworthy to the character itself, but still incredibly amusing. There was more than one 'marital aid' crack from other PCs.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_MaritalAid_zps8124d6d7.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_MaritalAid_zps8124d6d7.jpg.html%22)
Hero Zsigmond.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_LootBeerBaron_zps1c427e7c.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_LootBeerBaron_zps1c427e7c.jpg.html%22)
Now THIS was an important piece of loot! Recovered after Chosen Hell, in the early days. Almost anyone who accompanied Zsigmond into the outlands likely saw him making notes in this old tome...
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_LootBook_zps408d91a9.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_LootBook_zps408d91a9.jpg.html%22)
Zsigmond raced Nalrae to the Dark Lake's shoreline, to prevent Horace Walbrooke from killing himself trying to do the same. He got these boots as a result, which Nalrae did not claim when he took Zsigmond's eyes.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_LootBoots_zps0cd1a878.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_LootBoots_zps0cd1a878.jpg.html%22)
A bow that Zsigmond received from the short story contest, literally THE DAY he was retired. No less than a half-hour before the ceremony. I hold no animosity, in fact, I thought it was wonderful. Prior to this, he used the 'goblin shortbow' commonly found in the module for virtually his whole career. That thing should be mounted somewhere. :)
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_LootBow_zps19b39d90.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_LootBow_zps19b39d90.jpg.html%22)
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_LootBow2_zpsf01a6edf.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_LootBow2_zpsf01a6edf.jpg.html%22)
Zsigmond's original leathers, which nearly went to Audriel T'Nadril. He eventually got a better set, leading these to actually remain in-game somewhere... sadly I don't have screenshots of the newer set with one arm uncovered, but they were studded leathers with some neat descriptions. :)
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_LootLeathers1_zps0589beb0.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_LootLeathers1_zps0589beb0.jpg.html%22)
Many PCs will recognize the Shield of Sanctuary. The Cross was awarded to him, but there is no in-game medal for it, I think. :)
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_LootShield_zps04ac9927.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_LootShield_zps04ac9927.jpg.html%22)
Befriend the chief scout of a Dragon and it turns out you'll get something nice! Saved them all, got a tinderbox.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_LootTinderbox1_zps2abd99fe.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_LootTinderbox1_zps2abd99fe.jpg.html%22)
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_LootTinderbox2_zps8b0552d5.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_LootTinderbox2_zps8b0552d5.jpg.html%22)
Last but not least, the "razor's edge" that Zsigmond would often emote flicking blood off of. This terrifying little blade first struck me as perhaps the most powerful weapon I had seen, but that penalty to saves was actually crippling at times. He feared to draw it, which lead him to avoid sparring matches with it and generally be wary about taking lives. That said, it made quite a few appearances, by necessity.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Cutter_zps18a08ef1.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Cutter_zps18a08ef1.jpg.html%22)
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Cutter2_zpsd46d982e.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Cutter2_zpsd46d982e.jpg.html%22)
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More screenshots on page four!
One of my favorite PCs of the new chapter, from start to finish, when viewed from afar and from a more intimate vantage. Yours is an example we all aspire to in this virtual world.
Zsigmond's poetry really was pretty bad- Those are but a few examples.
Such an amazingly well-done and consistently played PC, from start to finish, and one of the PCs who probably influenced the path my character took the most. The effect that he had on both her, and it would appear the server at large, can not be understated! It was honestly an honor playing with him and he really helped me get started here as a new player, an experience I'm sure many others share. I am in awe of what you managed to achieve with him.
Damn giant of a man, Zsigmond-friend will be forever remembered :3
His writing of poetry was the point of his life, where it was starting to be pretty clear that he MUST die soon.
Epic & impactful (again, not the poetry..)
An absolute titan and cornerstone of Sanctuary and beyond. Sadly I never got intensely involved but I enjoyed him and his story from a short distance immensely. Well done, definitely set the bar for Wayfinders to follow.
My fondest memories of playing with him are on Torrak out on patrols getting spiced by quirky aberrants and fey; attempting to unreavel the mysteries and stop threats before they got to Sanctuary.
Hell of a PC. Every interaction I had with him on Rallick was fantastic. He had a way of making even the most mundane patrols to be exciting and tense. I don't really know what else to say. I'm not really sure what else can be said that hasn't or won't be!
Truly an impressive character, and one that I am absolutely in awe of. o7
Splendid work, both of you guys
Zsigmond was an excellent PC. As a new player, it was really fun joining once in a while to the expeditions, which was an excellent opportunity to take a break from the normal quests. Also he was a fantastic leader, and I had the pleasure of following him on three massive player events to slay Umbars, then Chosen, then Orogs. His speeches before each fight were really encouraging as well.
With Charlene it was fun learning in every conversation with her that whatever secrets my PC knows, she knew about it ages before. With her type of dealings with mostly everyone I'm a bit surprised she got this far, but that just shows how well she was played!
Looking forward for both of your next PCs! :)
Excellent and steadfast characters, both of you. I had numerous interactions with you during my time on Slyd and Ilph, and truly enjoyed them while watching this tremendous growth in your characters' personalities in the meanwhile.
The hat is off, and I am looking forward to see your screenshots (and there is the first batch, yes!)
I can only do one thing...
o7
Makes me wish I had just taken a few day break rather then burn out as badly as I did. Much <3
<3
I interacted more with Charlene, but... yeah. EFU R's story can't be told without this duo
By some miracle, I got all the screenshots organized into one grand post. I hope you all enjoy, thank you for making the character something special. :)
EDIT:
This, I think, was one of my favorite screenshots out of them all. It is really important, for the continuity of a faction, to remember those characters who have come and gone.
Brogum Saarduum, dead on the ground.
QuoteZsigmond had EFUSS Entertainment at good levels, so that he could sing. In the style of Fafhrd of Fritz Leiber, he sang in a mid-to-high tenor, well above his speaking voice at a baritone.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_NeverFalter_zps2c9568d4.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_NeverFalter_zps2c9568d4.jpg.html%22)
What's going to happen to the snakes? Everyone wants to know!
An amazing character, and I wish I could have gotten Wyatt into the Wayfinders before his death. Perhaps they might have saved him before his fall from grace.
I don't know that many people realize how up for grabs just what the Wayfinders would finally become was in the early days. Characters as complex as Zsigmond and Charlene go to show that allowing events form your concept and goals will often mean that your PC's exploits become part of the setting. They are more than just transient personalities passing through. It was fantastic to be able to be a part of that.
Two characters who blazed their own trail in EfU and left a lasting and powerful impact. I'll miss the nigh-daily reports of trolls on the low road.
Fantastic job you two.
Trolls on the Low Road. I too will miss the outlands notices, despite them becoming irrelevant by the time you post them!
Excellent flavor, excellent characters.
This the the moment I remember with Zsigmond the most.
(http://i.imgur.com/wW0x854.jpg)
I never had more than passing interactions with either of your characters, as my concepts tend to be a bit standoffish when it comes to Upper Sanctuary, but when I did, they were always enjoyable. The Wayfinders were the PC faction at the start of this chapter, and I'm glad to see that they've gone the distance. Zsigmond gave Quaregg one hell of a fight, easily my most memorable (and naturally, one I didn't think to take screenies off.) Great work, something to be proud of, both of you.
I'll always remember Charlene making me feel like a failure of a rogue by having her sneak up behind me and whisper "For a Svirfneblin, your not very sneaky"
Since then, the goal has near become "Be more sneaky than Charlene"
It's moments like these that I really hate myself for not taking more screenshots.
Zsigmond and Charlene were without a doubt the biggest influences on both my character and my own development as a player during my stay here on EFU. What started off as just tagging along for a few patrols led to the most fulfilling PW experience I've had on this platform, bar none.
Learning the ways of the world in those patrols, events, and every day meetings in the old halls was never a bore. Those hundreds of interactions and getting to see the Wayfinders grow into what they are today from these two PC's efforts.. It's been a hell of a ride so far.
I really regret not being able to attend the final award ceremony for a proper sendoff, but the last interaction I had with the two will stick with me for the rest of my NWN days. I hate myself for not taking an actual screenie, but it's probably because I realized too late what was actually happening.
Mel was sitting in the offices interviewing a new recruit, and Zsigmond being the commander he was came to oversee and listen to the process. He started asking the recruit the usual questions - he had this process down to a science at this point, when Charlene came in and gently told him to stop and leave it be. Because others would be taking care of these things now. So Zsigmond left with a smile on his face and a shake of the head, joking about not knowing what came over him. To me, it was sort of like saying goodbye.
"Carry on, Sergeant."
---
QuoteThe first Wayfinder meeting in the new Hall
(http://i.imgur.com/OxELD1n.jpg)
(http://i.imgur.com/prIYC6S.jpg)
QuoteGetting the good news
(http://i.imgur.com/DQlNvtO.jpg)
I am going to deeply miss interacting with these characters. When I first heard about the Wayfinders it was on a character I had made just to learn a bit about the server, and I agreed to check out a patrol just on the basic notion that I was a Ranger and so I might as well. Meeting Zsigmond and joining the Wayfinders wound up drastically changing my entire EFU experience. I met many wonderful people, I was pushed to explore for the sake of it places I would have never had the courage to go on my own, and most of all I was shown just how much some initiative and good roleplaying can accomplish on EFU.
In a way, I'm very sad. I had a lot more roleplay, even entire concepts I had still wanted to expose the Wayfinder-Captain to. But, it is probably a good thing. Maybe now I can stop making so many character concepts for a single faction! An amazing job, Vault Shrike. I deeply look forward to whatever you do next.
Charlene I didn't get to interact with nearly as much, but I was always impressed at just how much the character seemed to know. And not in that surface 'has played on the server' a while way, this was a woman who had her fingers in everything.
Both of you have done an absolutely amazing job in enriching the server and creating things not only for yourselves, but also for everyone who happened to interact with the pair. A great example of how characters can touch the world around them.
A truly wonderful pair of characters, always enjoyable to interact with. Zsigmond's verbose and flamboyant speech and his optimistic approach to life proved a fascinating combination and Charlene's deceptive charm gave her an air of hidden depths I wanted to probe but sadly never got around to do so.
Fantastic!
I still get misty eyed thinking about Zsigmond and Charlene being NPCed.
Zsigmond was Mikael's -real- first meeting and friend in the new chapter. They met as Zsigmond returned from a trip into the wilds with a few others and stopped and whispered "Are... you a Priest? Father I need make a confession" It has been one long ride from there with Mikael wrestling with Zsigmond's demons more than once (figuratively, the guy can't even handle a rock worm).
I never expected Zsigmond to become Mikael's closest friend, and to be challenged by him so frequently to adopt the roll of "Father" in the Ilmateri faith.
I did shed a few tears at the Endlude... I felt like a friend had just died.
Well, they were the first faction I interacted with and I will surely miss having Zsigmund and Charlene around. Hopefully you can fill the void with some grand new PC's....
I've always seen this character with a level of admiration from afar. This is of course a secret account, but I gotta tell you I got emotionally shaken during the interaction they had recently, with the recently blinded Kadar. My callous character was the most challenging RPing scene I've had in years, to keep my player emotions from clouding the actions my PC would have, that is. I lack the words to describe how I felt during that interaction.
One of the very best.
Quote from: Vault Shrike;381069A good friend in Aethereal's Arantras; here he is calling upon a hurricane.
There were many memorable moments, and I have only the regret of not getting to see more of Zsigmond and relive old times in the later periods as well as never fully formalising entry into the Wayfinders, but time away from EFU and all and returning just when his player-driven story concludes... alas, 'twas not meant to be.
As for Charlene, well... the intrigues of intellect are my favourite and we made a long and delightful game of it, though I am glad at least to have had that final interaction.
It leaves a bittersweet aftertaste, in not being able to interact with this pair the same way anymore. Though you are both to be commended for reaching this admirable conclusion.
Zsigmond Kadar
( San...ernance) [TK]: It isn't farewell.... but somehow it feels like it is....
Nice job. I think Zsigmond and Charlene are good examples of how if players stick with a character for a long time it can often be more fun and the characters are more likely to truly become a part of the setting.
Legendary - it was a blast to be part of his story.
One of the best PC's I've ever played with, a real credit to what can be achieved with a lot of hard work and patience. Kadar was an excellent character.
A stellar performance.
I greatly enjoyed the interactions Carys had with both of your characters, from encountering Zsigmond for the first time by the steps of the House of Governance, through to the many conversations by lamplight with Charlene, and of course, the countless patrols out into the vastness of the Underdark.
Zsigmond and Charlene were, for me, the defining characters of EfU:R so far, having succeeded in leaving an indelible mark not only on the server, but myself as a player, too. I regret not being able to interact with them much during the final few days and missing out on the big award ceremony itself, but... c'est la vie! It has truly been a pleasure and an honor to have played a small part in their tale, and I hope it was as much fun for you two as it was for the rest of us.
I've spent the past hour sorting through the chaotic mess that is my screenshot folder and found a few choice shots that I feel might be worth sharing...
[hide=A Wayfinder's funeral](http://i.gyazo.com/c0a455b4e7d92d9c694d05fc8d7d0953.png)(http://i.gyazo.com/f045ed4930de0053d1d29a0092bff316.png)[/hide]
[hide=best fronds](http://i.gyazo.com/6ea541734af59fefa2a5a2a4140d3d8b.png)
(http://i.gyazo.com/268e31a4f65e84b83244cc2fed72ed5a.png)
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[hide=I swear my screenshot capturing skills are flawless, okay?](http://i.gyazo.com/8593185f4f48dea7dfe9f8ff71fc4724.png)[/hide]
[hide=If we're having explosions, we're having a conflicted Abala](http://i.gyazo.com/708d3bbdbecf65c0d3d1ee77a78390e3.png)[/hide]
I really enjoyed our relations with both of you and Elspeth. I was always nervous what do you know and what not. And if you really know that Elspeth is a guardian.
And when there was a trial with Zsigmond, I wanted to get Zsigmond to the Stewards if he was exilled (but others rejected).
And your creation of association is really awesome. Your character showed us, that it is possible.
And one more thing to Charlene:
I remember the drow conversation.
"But unlike our priestess, she has real power. She controls whole reconnaissance force." (I do not remember it exactly, but the point is hopefully clear.)
I can only aspire to play characters of the quality of these two. I wish I'd stayed around to see all of this develop, but all I can say now, is... WOW! :D
*clap, clap, clap" Superbly done, VaultShrike. Well played beginging to end. Had the good fortune to interact with you on more then one pc, and always was a pleasure. A great example of how to play an impactful, long lived, and good aligned! PC! (Being a long lived anything in EFU can be a challenge!)
Anyhow..Kudos to you and Charlene, great stuff!
Both of these PCs were great, and awesome to interact with across multiple characters.
Thank you.
I... I'm speechless, really. Great characters, I only really saw their end sadly.
I know you guys will just come back with something even better :D
Charlene was very cool as well, and I loved Abala's many frenemy interactions with her. She was suspicious for quite a while that Charlene had some dark plot she was using Zsigmond for, but the woman of many smiles slowly won her over!
I remember you two were brilliant right from the start. Even at the founding of the Wayfinders both PCs were full of character and they only blossomed further from then on. Respect, well done.
Brilliant characters, both :)
one day ill have a character like that :(
one day...
Normally I'd object to posting again in a thread half dedicated to Zsigmond, BUT, I have more screenshots. Also, apparently, I broke all the old ones for awhile. They're functional again!
Also, LOOT screenshots were added to the first post.
Sadly I have but a few screenshots from the period when Zsigmond was blind - he did his absolute best, not realizing the full gravity of what had happened to him, to operate at the level he had prior. This, he found, tumbling down a set of stairs, did not work well. Still, I had fun overhearing conversations from a distance (with superb hearing, blindfight helps) and surprising the PCs involved with seemingly-supernatural knowledge of who they were. :)
What follows is a miscellaneous collection from throughout the character's history:
[hide="Misc. Screenshots"]
Abala, you better not be talking about his wife. No, you're not, good. A private rebuke, which was too funny not to share. :)
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_AbalaInsult_zps896f343f.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_AbalaInsult_zps896f343f.jpg.html%22)
Charlene was once killed by
Hide
and somehow expelled. Found her along the Old Canal, which was rather distressing for poor Zsigmond. Never was this mentioned to another PC.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_FishPoop_zpsac867dcf.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_FishPoop_zpsac867dcf.jpg.html%22)
Fighting a horrible frost giant! We had it so close - so close - to death, so many times.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Giant_zpsb7e354d0.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Giant_zpsb7e354d0.jpg.html%22)
Negotiations!
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Gnomes_zps65b87db0.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Gnomes_zps65b87db0.jpg.html%22)
A better view of an earlier screenshot, so that you can see the Wayfinder guard provided to the negotiators.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Negotiations2_zps7cff92ad.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Negotiations2_zps7cff92ad.jpg.html%22)
Exploring in the machine during a rough, uneasy truce with the 'Barons'. That truce would not last.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Lightningisbadforyourhealth_zps419993c6.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Lightningisbadforyourhealth_zps419993c6.jpg.html%22)
Zsigmond explored everywhere - secrets upon secrets, to be found in dark recesses.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Loremaster_zps03cc3d06.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Loremaster_zps03cc3d06.jpg.html%22)
Melanie Coppertop deserves special mention as a Wayfinder, one of Zsigmond's pupils and an excellent character to boot. Here is some instruction on the dangers of facing down psionically-potent creatures.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Melanie_zpsbe3a9c39.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Melanie_zpsbe3a9c39.jpg.html%22)
Zsigmond campaigned with some vitriol against the infamous Safety Cloak, stating that its red-orange moving glow would do nothing but alert foes to the presence of the wearer beyond the shield. An Agent once saw fit to chastise him for this policy.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_SafetyCloak_zpse4cbffb8.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_SafetyCloak_zpse4cbffb8.jpg.html%22)
Aww. Zsigmond somehow won over the cat burglar. Another bit of that scavenger hunt. :)
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_ScavengerHuntII_zps81c1ab6d.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_ScavengerHuntII_zps81c1ab6d.jpg.html%22)
D'aww. I'm a hopeless romantic.
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Awww1_zps54d4492e.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Awww1_zps54d4492e.jpg.html%22)
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_Awww2_zps89a57662.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_Awww2_zps89a57662.jpg.html%22)
Last screenshot that I think is worth posting. Delving deep, with friends and comrades, to see what might be found. Thanks again, EFU!
(http://i1328.photobucket.com/albums/w531/87854321/EscapeFromUncertai_WhoSaysWeCantScouttheMachine_zps070ac980.jpg) (//%22http://s1328.photobucket.com/user/87854321/media/EscapeFromUncertai_WhoSaysWeCantScouttheMachine_zps070ac980.jpg.html%22)
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He was a good solid character who, like several other of his contemporary server main-stays, just didn't die - ever.
Like a lot of rogues and sneaks finding the secrets of the server is probably the biggest reward you can have and it's good to know you had a lot of those.
Only one gripe....in a screenshot you said Drogor was tanking all those things...BOOO! Dominique was wrecking them along side that hairbrained halfling! LOL
A fantastic character. I loved how he included so many people in his adventures. Truly Kadar was a boon to the entire playerbase.
Charlene always amused me a bit but sadly never interacted with her much.
Of course I've been on hiatus for several months.
Well done both!
Poor Vrathruil. He only wanted to stop the experiments.
That ma and pa beholder was just fun, as were most of the trips. Great characters, always fun to interact with.
Phenomenal. Both as characters facing moral quandaries in ensuring sanctuary's survival, and in what you achieved with the Wayfinders. I especially liked how the group was used so effectively to bring both new characters and players into the fold.