Rayth

I've actually been giving some thought toward trying my hand at more GMing here, and a solo game seems like a good way to get some experience. So I might be interested, as well. Out of the options you've given, the only one I'd be comfortable GMing is M&M3E. I've run a couple IRL sessions, and some brief stints here, though I've played in quite a few games. I've seen you bopping around the M&M scene here for years, as well; I think we've only played together maybe once though, many years ago. I'd be fine doing a high PL/PP solo game. That actually sounds like a lot of fun. I'd want to nail down details about things like setting and the character you'd want to play, but that could all happen if you want to take me up on the offer. More than that, I'd want to know the level of activity you're hoping for; I could likely commit to updates, minimum, once a week, but I'd aspire to more like a couple times a week. My work schedule is pretty screwy. You mention IRL finally stabilizing for you; this might be about the level of activity you're looking for. But if you want something faster, I might not be able to keep up. I also tend to write longer posts with a lot of description, which not everyone enjoys having to read through. For the trade, out of the games you list, the one I most want to learn is Shadowrun. I've wanted to play it for years, but never really had the opportunity; I've actually been reading through the 5th edition rulebooks lately for unrelated reasons, and have an okay grasp on it, but have never played or experienced the setting. But if that doesn't sound appealing(I bet a solo Shadowrun game can be quite difficult, both to play and run), I'd be fine with trading M&M3E games. I've got a couple of characters I haven't gotten to play as much as I'd like. Let me know if you're interested.

I have not, unfortunately. It looks like they haven't been online in some time, as well. I'm around if things pick back up; I was excited for this game, and am getting through my own rough patch, availability-wise.

It took me about a thousand years, but I've finally got this in something approaching a proper state. I prefer to avoid posting an application until I'm actually done with it, but in the interest of not missing the due date, I figured I'd post what I've got. I've been lurking on this game since before recruitment started, but I've had a hard time settling on a concept that didn't feel like it was stepping on toes. But M&M is my favorite system, and I have a critical nostalgia weakness for Digimon, so I had to make an attempt. So, here's Kyoka! I'm excited about how she turned out; interesting characterization, and fills a mechanical niche that I didn't see too much of. I also like that the art I found makes it look like she's wearing a classic Giants jacket, which she probably got from her dad. And, I think Lopmon has the potential to be really fun to play, with a lot of room to grow. She's got a broad element spread available to her, too; between Ice, Wind, Dark, and potentially Earth depending on how her being an Earth element affects her regular punches. Not to mention, she's adorable, and along with Terriermon is among my favorite Digimon. Let me know what you think!

I plan on making this look as nice as Kyoka's app, but it's getting late and I have work in the morning. So, a HeroLab statblock will have to do for now, and I'll pretty it up when I'm next able to. I plan on following the traditional evolution route for Lopmon, going to Turuiemon, then Antylamon, then Cherubimon. I'm leaving the possibility of following the 'darker' line as an option, but it isn't where I'm leaning. Lopmon - PL 8 Strength 2, Stamina 4, Agility 4, Dexterity 0, Fighting 6, Intellect 0, Awareness 4, Presence 0 Advantages Close Attack 2, Disarming (DC 16), Evasion, Ranged Attack 8, Teamwork Skills Acrobatics 4 (+8), Athletics 6 (+8), Deception 6 (+6), Insight 4 (+8), Perception 4 (+8), Persuasion 6 (+6) Powers Attack Moves Blazing Ice! [Ice]: Damage 8 (DC 23; Increased Range: ranged) Lop Punch!: Strength-based Damage 6 (DC 23) Spinning Slap!: Strength-based Damage 6 (DC 23; Multiattack) Tiny Twister! [Wind]: Cumulative Affliction 8 (1st degree: Dazed, 2nd degree: Stunned, Resisted by: Fortitude, DC 18; Cumulative, Increased Range: ranged; Limited Degree) Lopmon! Big Floppy Ears: Flight 1 (Speed: 4 miles/hour, 60 feet/round; Affects Others; Gliding, Wings) Durable: Protection 2 (+2 Toughness) Great Big Bunny Leaps: Leaping 3 (Leap 60 feet at 16 miles/hour) Speedy Little Feet: Speed 1 (Speed: 4 miles/hour, 60 feet/round) Stuffed Animal-Sized: Shrinking 4 (-1 STR, -2 Intimidate, +4 Stealth, +2 active defenses, -1 size rank; Permanent) Offense Initiative +4 Blazing Ice! [Ice]: Damage 8, +8 (DC 23) Grab, +8 (DC Spec 12) Lop Punch!: Strength-based Damage 6, +8 (DC 23) Spinning Slap!: Strength-based Damage 6, +8 (DC 23) Throw, +8 (DC 17) Tiny Twister! [Wind]: Cumulative Affliction 8, +8 (DC Fort 18) Unarmed, +8 (DC 17) Languages Native Language Defense Dodge 10, Parry 10, Fortitude 8, Toughness 6, Will 8 Power Points Abilities 42 + Powers 34 + Advantages 15 + Skills 15 (30 ranks) + Defenses 14 = 120 Validation: Complications: At least 2 Complications are required Hero Lab and the Hero Lab logo are Registered Trademarks of LWD Technology, Inc. Free download at Mutants & Masterminds, Third Edition is ©2010-2017 Green Ronin Publishing, LLC. All rights reserved.

Endoh Kyoka Appearance Kyoka is tall for her age; always has been, and that's held true even through high school. She has light brown eyes, and wears her hair long. It's the one aspect of traditional femininity she allows herself, and she applies herself to it's maintenance as thoroughly as she does everything else. Her hair spends most of it's time bound up in baseball caps or tied in buns to stay out of the way for martial arts practice, but when she lets it down she's been told it's quite beautiful. She's built surprisingly solidly compared to many of her classmates. Long hours spent between the baseball diamond, judo dojo and just general gym-going have given her a surprising amount of muscle; not that you'd know it, given her propensity to wear more concealing clothing, opting for slacks over skirts, and wearing longer sleeves. It isn't exactly a secret; she competes on Takigawa High's baseball team, and participates in Kendo Club. But the looks she gets make her a little self-conscious, or maybe just annoyed. Kyoka's expression is usually rather neutral; or perhaps, placid is the right word. Not unapproachable, but a little distant. She dresses well, but comfortably, preferring sportswear and things that are easy to move in. Personality Kyoka is a girl best measured in degrees. Her first impression can be a little misleading. She's serious, but not stern. She's quiet, but not shy. She's confident, but not conceited. It takes a lot to get a reaction out of her, and whatever reaction you get will likely be a little muted. But she isn't depressed, though maybe a little repressed. She's very focused, and can be a little intense. But she can be perfectly friendly; in fact, one might go so far as to say she's pretty popular, as you might expect by being one of the best baseball players in the school. She has no problem talking to people, though she doesn't always have a lot to say. Put her on the field, or on the mat, though, and her demeanor changes. She can be downright fierce when she's got a challenge in front of her, and relentless in pursuit of conquering it. Any challenge is an opportunity to prove, and improve, herself, and she treats it with the severity that deserves. She's been called older than her years, sometimes no-nonsense, and she's known to be dependable by her teammates. She doesn't hang out with many people besides them; her schedule is just too busy. But if she calls you a friend, she means it, and is doggedly loyal. Her relationship to sports is a little fraught. It started in the way it does for many, as an after-school activity, but she always felt the pressure from her parents to commit, to excel. It helped that she was naturally quite talented; she did commit, and she does excel. But she hasn't spent much time thinking if she really wants to be doing this; she's wrapped up in the inertia and momentum. Her father's passing has made this more thorny; no one has said that she can't drop baseball without disrespecting her father's memory, but she certainly feels that way. And why should she drop it? She's good at it, very good. She could even go pro one day, if she wants to. Does she? Who's to say. It's hard to avoid thinking about the fact that there isn't as much room to grow in women's baseball as there is in men's; a fear she's not spoken much about. But if she's good enough, talented enough? She can't be ignored. Backstory Kyoka was born to mother Himari, and father Minato. They themselves were once quite in the public eye; Himari was a professional figure skater with Olympic prospects, and Minato was a professional baseball player, having a well-regarded but not exemplary tenure as part of the Yomiuri Giants. They were something of a power couple in their day; not the apex of their respective sports, but very driven to succeed, well-known and popular. Even more so together. Himari had largely retired by the time Kyoka was born, the rigors of Olympic competition having taken their toll. Minato continued to play well into Kyoka's childhood, supporting the family and earning the admiration of his daughter. Kyoka, for her part, excelled in sport from an early age, spurred onward by her parents. She favored soccer, though her father always wanted her to switch to baseball. She also started practicing kendo and judo quite young; it looks good on college applications, and is well-respected. Her parents weren't harsh, but they expected a lot from Kyoka, and she strove to meet their standards. Things began to change when Kyoka was in middle school. Her father, now having retired from the Giants, fell ill. His disease progressed quickly, though the family got to spend as much time together as possible. Kyoka, following her father's wishes, switched clubs to baseball; Minato got to see her play shortly before he was hospitalized, and she remembers the grin on his face well when he watched her slide to home. He passed shortly after. The time after her father's passing was turbulent; arrangements had to be made, and she was still young. It was hard to accept, hard to deal with. She retreated into athletics, both as a way to get away from the grief, as well as a way to feel closer to her father. She redoubled her focus, and she improved by leaps and bounds. By the time she entered high school, she was already better than many of her upperclassmen; a fact they took no pleasure in. It was difficult for any of them to do anything about it, though. Her talent spoke for itself, and she was largely immune to social pressures. What, were you going to bully the daughter of Endoh Minato, professional baseball player, because she was better than you at baseball? Come on, be serious. And even those who tried found a girl who was, frankly, unflappable. Even physical intimidation was fruitless; Kyoka's bi-weekly judo classes no secret. Things progressed as such until now, her senior year at Takigawa High. Kyoka is one of the team's star players; maybe the star. Her future looks bright, having already secured some athletic scholarships to prestigious schools. But her social calendar is a little sparse. One of her teammates, Haru, has gotten really excited about the new Digimon GO! game, and is bound and determined to get everyone else on the team to play. Kyoka has preregistered, though knows functionally nothing about Digimon outside of it's existence. Talents & Expectations Kyoka is meant to fill an interesting role on a Digimon cast; someone who is physically capable, both in athletics and in theoretical combat. The Digidestined are frequently imperiled, but it's not often that the threat can be punched into submission by a normal human. This is not a trend I intend on bucking with Kyoka. The premise of the franchise is that the human partners empower their Digimon to conquer foes through The Power of Friendship(or Courage, Sincerity, etc), and that still holds true for Kyoka. I don't anticipate her dukeing it out with Kuwagamon and such. Though, maybe a Numemon or Gotsumon. My hope is to explore her characterization and relationship to sport, her femininity, and her willingness to form friendships outside of her teammates, not obviate the need for a Digimon partner. However, to outline her talents and where I expect she'll fit in a team, she's fast, maneuverable, and reasonably strong. She's able to fight as a full PL5 character unarmed, excels in a grapple, and when equipped with a baseball bat, bokken, or similar club-like implement she deals higher damage. If we ever have to square up with some nefarious humans, or some low level Digimon who want to eat us while our partners are otherwise occupied, she's your gal. She also has high Acrobatics, Athletics, reasonable Perception and Insight, competent Throwing due to her sports background, and is capable at Stealth. When dealing with others her own age, her ranks in Cool give her quite an edge in Deception and Persuasion, falling back on her reputation, style, and status as an upperclassman. Adults still just see her as a kid still, though, so it doesn't work on them. Depending on team makeup, I could see her taking on something akin to a leader role, though that isn't where I excel as a player. But with some points to spend, I could see her taking ranks in Inspire or Leadership, to fill out that Gogglehead position. ABILITIES DEFENSES Strength 2 Dodge 6 Stamina 4 Parry 6 Agility 4 Fortitude 5 Dexterity 0 Toughness 4 Fighting 4 Will 5 Intellect 0 Awareness 2 Presence 0 POWERS Practiced Runner (1pp) ... Speed 1: 4 miles/hour, 60 feet/round; Check Required: Athletics DC 10 Vaulting (1pp) ... Leaping 1: Leap 15 feet at 4 miles/hour; Check Required: Acrobatics DC 10 ADVANTAGES & SKILLS Close Attack 2 Cool (Deception) Cool (Persuasion) Extraordinary Effort Fast Grab Improved Grab Improved Hold Improved Trip Equipment 1 SKILL RANKS BONUS Acrobatics 4 +8 Athletics 6 +8 Close Combat: Grab 2 +8 Close Combat: Unarmed 2 +8 Deception 4 +4*+9 vs Teens Expertise: Academics 6 +6 Expertise 6 +6 Insight 4 +6 Intimidation 0 +0 Perception 4 +6 Persuasion 4 +4*+9 vs Teens Ranged Combat: Thrown 8 +8 Stealth 2 +6 EQUIPMENT Baseball Bat / Bokken / Etc. ... Strength-Based Damage 2 Remaining 3 points unspent OFFENSES Initiative +4 Unarmed Strength-based Damage +8 vs Parry; DC17 vs Toughness Grab Special +8 vs Strength/Dodge; DC17 vs Athletics/Acrobatics Baseball Bat/Bokken/Etc Strength-based Damage +6 vs Parry; DC19 vs Toughness Abilities 32pp / Powers 5pp / Advantages 7pp / Skills 23pp / Defenses 8pp COMPLICATIONS: • Quirk - Kyoka isn't famous by any stretch of the imagination, but her parents were fairly well known in their time. Occasionally that can be a benefit, and occasionally it makes her life a little more complicated. • Relationship - Kyoka is very close to her mother, and does her best to help her when she needs it. • Responsibility - Between school, her extracurricular activities, and the classes she takes outside of school, Kyoka's schedule is pretty busy. Her mother expects her to do well in all of them, and would notice if things started slipping. • Rivalry - While not as fiery as her teammates, she takes the rivalries between Takigawa High's baseball team and the teams from other schools seriously. She wants to make sure her school does well.

Mikaela Garrett - Psion DODGE: +8 | PARRY: +8 | TOU: +4 | FORT: +8 | WILL: +12 HERO POINTS: 1 ACTIVE EFFECTS: Mental Shields CONDITIONS: None Edward's positivity was a little infectious, and Mikaela found herself laughing at his story. "Right, exactly. It's easy to use force; nuance is more difficult, but usually more useful." Mikaela seemed a little hesitant at Edward's next question, but his apology smooths over any anxiety. She doesn't seem to mind sharing the story, but Edward's keen eyes can tell she's being careful with how she phrases things. "No, it's fine, it's fine. I did have a teacher. My dad found him for me, a little after my talent first manifested. He... made me into who I am now." She says that with a sort of resolve, tinged with some more complicated emotions. She's about to turn the question back to Edward, when Zhou's voice comes across the mental network. Mikaela's expression turns pensive. The fact that Zhou can somehow detect the nuances of the raider's life energy patterns only gives her pause for a moment; it sounded similar to, though different from, the way she could perceive the minds of others. That was very interesting. <An echo...? It could be that the three stronger sources are controlling the echoing ones. I've... seen that sort of thing before. We'll have to be careful until we know for sure if they're combatants, or just civilians with puppet strings.> The idea seems to make Mikaela anxious, but she echoes Edward's sentiment herself, sending a feeling of cautious confidence across the network. Zhou seemed very capable, but that was no reason to be rash. Her demeanor changes a little; she moves from the congeniality she'd had a moment ago, to something much more businesslike. As they neared the building, Mikaela switches primarily to telepathic communication; she does it almost reflexively, though she hopes the others will acclimate. For now, she's itching to get a better idea of what's going on in there; the possibility of the criminals being under mental control seems to have increased her urgency. <I agree; this seems... wrong. Edward, can you keep an eye on me for a second? I'm gonna see if I can't get a better look in there.> As she says this, she's already taking a seat on the sidewalk, legs crossed, back against the building behind her. She places her coffee next to her, then puts her hands on her knees, eyes closed, and takes a deep breath. On the inhale, she focuses, imagining a door in her mind. On the exhale, she releases the tension, opening the door and expelling her mind from her body. Her posture is relaxed, as is her breathing; it's hard to tell what she's just done, but evidently it wasn't terribly difficult for her. <I won't be able to hear you with my actual ears like this; you'll have to use the network to talk to me. If that's still a little tricky, I can still feel, so tap my shoulder and I'll wake up.> She rises, imperceptible to mundane senses, like some kind of phantom. With a thought, she propels her perception through the wall behind her, searching for the galleria Zhou is in. She hopes to be able to use her extrasensory perception to try and aid Zhou's own, and diagnose what's going on with these people.

I've mostly been at work 😧 but catching up on things now. I feel a little bad not moving things forward more than I have, but Calder does not excel in social situations, nor do I feel like he'd be the first to initiate that sort of thing. Stranger in a strange land, and all. But I can have him do so, if needed. He's much better at Insight than he is at any Charisma-based skills, though; one of his runes gives him Advantage on Insight checks. I feel like he'd do better accompanying someone else going to talk to the adventurers, or Dwarves, or whoever. And, he's able to act as muscle if needed.

Calder Ivarson (Goliath, Beast Hunter, Giant, Rune Knight Fighter 3) HP: 36/36 | Hit Dice: 3d10 | AC: 19*With Shield | Init: +1 | PP: 13 | PI: 18 | Speed: 30ft | Langs: Valiki, Higher Bürach, Castinellan, Giant Stone's Endurance: 2/2 | Second Wind: 1/1 | Action Surge: 1/1 | Giant Might: 2/2 | Fire Rune: 1/1 | Stone Rune: 1/1 Buffs: None | Debuffs: None | Resistance: None | Inspiration: 1 | Exhaustion: 0 | Available Funds: 276gp Calder looks thoughtful as Ithillien speaks. He agrees that among the adventurers, he would stand out the least; however, he isn't sure if he trusts himself to lead their information-gathering efforts toward them. Even beyond his physical appearance, this isn't his first language, and he can be a little tongue-tied or uncouth. Not the best foot forward when gathering clues. Looking uncharacteristically unsure, Calder says, "I agree; the adventurers might be best. I would prefer if someone else took the lead, but I can act as backup or stand guard as you suggest. I think I would serve better as an extra set of eyes and ears, to discern the truth of what is told to others. And if anyone needs help, shout, and I will be there."

Calder Ivarson (Goliath, Beast Hunter, Giant, Rune Knight Fighter 3) HP: 36/36 | Hit Dice: 3d10 | AC: 19*With Shield | Init: +1 | PP: 13 | PI: 18 | Speed: 30ft | Langs: Valiki, Higher Bürach, Castinellan, Giant Stone's Endurance: 2/2 | Second Wind: 1/1 | Action Surge: 1/1 | Giant Might: 2/2 | Fire Rune: 1/1 | Stone Rune: 1/1 Buffs: None | Debuffs: None | Resistance: None | Inspiration: 1 | Exhaustion: 0 | Available Funds: 276gp As Ithillien spoke, Calder did his best to keep up with the discussion. The finer points of magical theory and curse manipulation were a bit beyond him; the things he did came through instinct, and the limited education he'd gotten. The spellcraft of the Giants has largely faded from the world, so there are few first-hand accounts. It was, however, good to learn that it was possible to hide his curse from these wards. He had little reason to do so, but good to know it could be done. At Ithillien and Irata's praise, Calder smiles, looking almost bashful. He's glad it was a good idea, and makes mental note to craft many more plates. His skill at metalworking would be handy, and he could give the plates to the rest of the team. He'd been wary of doing so until he knew that just crafting the plate did not invoke it's magic somehow. He puts the plate back into a pocket, agreeing with Irata's assessment of the proper time and place to activate it. Ithillien then plucked quite a thick book from the bookshelf along the wall, bound in red leather. The other members of his team thumbed through it, but Calder refrained. It seemed the tome held information that could be useful for keeping control of his newfound urges, but it would take him quite some time to read through it. He'd grown more adept at reading during his training in Kandar, but it was still far from his strong suit. As the party moves through the Fork Gate, Calder's more than a little surprised at the sheer number of people here. He'd expected a few dozen refugees, scared and starving after fleeing their homes. But this was, while a little ramshackle and small, a functioning community. "Are all of these people from Rivenvale? Or have they mixed with others who already live outside the city gates?" His lack of knowledge of the Bürach Empire, and Altenheim in particular, is showing, and he doesn't like it. He's working from a deficit of knowledge, and the first step of a hunt is knowing your prey. His attention turns to those outside the Church; another building he wasn't terribly familiar with. But the quantity of the wounded was odd, as well. "What's going on here, that has caused so many to be injured? And yet, no one seems worried. If they'd been hurt fighting the thing stalking the Rivens, wouldn't more people be afraid?" Conversation now turned toward splitting up, and how to properly gather information. Calder frowned, looking pensive. He's pretty well-spoken, but only because he learned High Bürach from a bunch of diplomats. He's not dumb, but he remembers where he comes from; an isolated community in the Valikan wastes, scratching out a living through hunting and gathering. He also knows he cuts an intimidating figure, which limits his usefulness in social situations. This is not the type of hunting he was skilled in, and he has no shame saying so. "I am not clever in thought or speech; I would perhaps help most by accompanying someone who is, or speaking to someone who doesn't expect me to be. A place where my size and martial appearance would benefit, not hinder. The adventurers, perhaps?"

Calder Ivarson (Goliath, Beast Hunter, Giant, Rune Knight Fighter 3) HP: 36/36 | Hit Dice: 3d10 | AC: 19*With Shield | Init: +1 | PP: 13 | PI: 18 | Speed: 30ft | Langs: Valiki, Higher Bürach, Castinellan, Giant Stone's Endurance: 2/2 | Second Wind: 1/1 | Action Surge: 1/1 | Giant Might: 2/2 | Fire Rune: 1/1 | Stone Rune: 1/1 Buffs: None | Debuffs: None | Resistance: None | Inspiration: 1 | Exhaustion: 0 | Available Funds: 276gp Calder hadn't expected, when the mists cleared, to find himself standing outside the door of what passed for the Kandarian embassy in Altenheim. He'd known the mists were laced with magic, but to whisk him from outside the Atelier to his lodgings? It was impressive, if a little intimidating. He'd felt bad for leaving Irata before he'd been able to tell the woman where to meet him; they would have to reschedule their luncheon, it seemed. In the time between their parting and the meeting, Calder ensured his weapons were sharp, examined his armor with Caspar to guarantee it's integrity, and indulged in quite a large lunch. His compatriots from Kandar know of Calder's appetites; they'd begun preparing a roast sheep after he'd left, though due to his teleportation, it wasn't quite ready by the time he returned. No matter, he had one final task that took up the remaining time, and he ate greedily once it was fully cooked. Later, he entered the Red Masque Atelier, gingerly navigating the too-small aisle to reach the door to the back room. Ducking under the head of the door, he entered a little sheepishly, before taking a seat. He delicately lifted a cup of coffee, sipping at it with a quizzical look on his face. He'd never had coffee before, and was trying to decide if he liked it or not. When Irata arrived, he gave her a look of apology; he hadn't known where to find her, either. "Hail, Ithilien. I am glad to have you with us." At her pause, Calder grinned, almost a little embarrassed. "Yes, an Ogresh. If anyone asks, that is probably the best thing to call me." When Irata offers a few questions, particularly regarding the Thaumaturgy basics the Ringmaster had given them, Calder perks up. "I also had a question or two about that, if it's alright. I took the liberty of preparing a plate," he says, trailing off for a moment as he pulls out a small square of metal into which he chiseled the thaumaturgic engraving. This was the task that took his remaining time before lunch. "I haven't drawn the pattern yet, because I wasn't sure if it would activate immediately or not. But I thought we could place this in the refugee camp somewhere, maybe buried near a common path. It might find something, even after we leave." He gave a look towards Irata and Lady Underwood, and nodded towards the plate. "When I place it, you can see if you feel anything. But if it draws on my own strength, I would not want to activate it until it's placed correctly." OOC Poet, let me know how much gp I owe for the metal plate. Calder has proficiency with Smith's Tools, so I presume this is within his ability to create. If that isn't true, or I've misunderstood the process somewhere, let me know. I'm also deducting the 2gp for my food intake for the day, since Calder is a big boy with a big appetite.

Calder Ivarson (Goliath, Beast Hunter, Giant, Rune Knight Fighter 3) HP: 36/36 | Hit Dice: 3d10 | AC: 19*With Shield | Init: +1 | PP: 13 | PI: 18 | Speed: 30ft | Langs: Valiki, Higher Bürach, Castinellan, Giant Stone's Endurance: 2/2 | Second Wind: 1/1 | Action Surge: 1/1 | Giant Might: 2/2 | Fire Rune: 1/1 | Stone Rune: 1/1 Buffs: None | Debuffs: None | Resistance: None | Inspiration: 1 | Exhaustion: 0 Calder commits the name of the elven woman to memory; he had only spoken with Ithilien briefly, but it seems she is part of the Society, rather than just a cat's paw they used to make introductions. And it seemed they had their first objective: root out any hidden threats within the refugees, while gathering information to start their hunt. At the talk of handling things with silk or steel, and at the Ringmaster's direct cautioning, Calder raised a placating hand. "Aye, aye, I understand. I can be as canny as I am fierce; I have no intent to start a fight before it need be started." Then, it appeared as though they were being released to go attend to their own errands, before being contacted tonight. Calder nods, and joins his compatriots as they discuss their next steps amidst the swirling mists. Irata, it seemed, was eager to start forming stronger bonds between the hunters, though the reception from the others was a little chillier. Calder shrugged, settling his pack and his armor more comfortably on his shoulders, before responding. "We do not have many Inquisitors in my lands; you might be the first I've ever met. I wouldn't mind sharing information, but only to familiarize myself with this land and it's peoples. You've given me no reason to distrust you. However, I have some preparations to attend to as well; blades to sharpen, armor to inspect. And an appetite to sate, most of all. We could break bread, together? I have doubts I would fit through the door of your lodgings, so perhaps we could eat elsewhere." Calder gestures at the others, any who are still present. "Any who wish to come, may come. I fear I would eat all the food a tavern could offer, leaving them with nothing. So, I welcome you all to come eat with my people, travelers from Kandar. But if neutral ground is preferred, I will endeavor to... limit myself to a smaller meal."

Calder Ivarson (Goliath, Beast Hunter, Giant, Rune Knight Fighter 3) HP: 36/36 | Hit Dice: 3d10 | AC: 19*With Shield | Init: +1 | PP: 13 | PI: 18 | Speed: 30ft | Langs: Valiki, Higher Bürach, Castinellan, Giant Stone's Endurance: 2/2 | Second Wind: 1/1 | Action Surge: 1/1 | Giant Might: 2/2 | Fire Rune: 1/1 | Stone Rune: 1/1 Buffs: None | Debuffs: None | Resistance: None | Inspiration: 1 | Exhaustion: 0 Calder is quiet as the Ringmaster speaks, intent on remembering what he's told. He was sent from his homeland for this purpose; he would not fail in it. The talk of curses, however, goes a little above his head. He finds it interesting that apparently Calder himself is considered 'cursed' by these wards the Ringmaster speaks of, and responds to the statement with a bit of a scowl. He isn't sure whether to consider that an insult or not. He had certainly been changed by the Ordning, and granted both boons and banes. But to imply that the ritual was a curse was almost offensive to him. It was a gift of his people, to be used in their protection, as it had been since time immemorial. Auda had told him that the Bürach did not know of the ways of northerners, and would consider him backward and strange. Perhaps this is part of what they meant. Calder decided he would let the sleight pass. He did not volunteer to learn the ward in question, but would consider it if the task was asked of him. As the wave of questioning passed, the Ringmaster moved the meeting to it's primary purpose, and Calder stood up a little straighter, as if coming to attention. This was what he had come for; to hunt monsters, and protect people. He began committing names and places to memory; the mining village of Rivenvale, two days away, the people in the refugee camp outside Fork Gate. He is glad to see that others of their Company get down to brass tacks, and start thinking of first steps. Irata in particular seemed adept at this, as befits someone working with the Inquisition. Their existence is mostly academic for Calder, having never met an inquisitor himself, but he's heard stories. He thinks her ideas are all excellent places to start. At Lady Underwood's question, Calder does raise a slight eyebrow, but others in their Company are quicker to respond: they are the muscle the Society is sending, perhaps himself most of all. This does not surprise him; it is the role he expected to play when coming to the City of Joy. But the trepidation in the Lady's voice implies a lack of experience in such matters. The idea seems to have brought some tension among their group, but it raises no ire in Calder. Zefelle, the Halfling with the grim countenance, says as much, and Calder agrees. "Aye. There are many types of danger, and many which I am not suited to stand against. Subtle things, of words and intrigue? The Lady Underwood would surely surpass me, keeping knives from her back as surely as my armor does, and striking back in turn. I will leave matters of negotiation and skulduggery to those among you who excel in them. As for matters of steel? Of blood?" At Zefelle's smirk and furtive glance, Calder gave a wide smile. He grasped one great fist in the other open palm and cracked his knuckles, each pop sounding like a bone snapping. He looks at Irata. "What was it you said? 'There is no need to fear danger when I am here.'"

Calder Ivarson (Goliath Giant, Rune Knight Fighter 3) AC: 19 | HP: 36/36 | Initiative: +1 | Passive Perception: 13 | As the Ringmaster speaks, Calder is unsure that the person he describes resembles himself. He has faced hardship and tragedy in his life, to be sure; it's hard not to, living in the frigid north of Grarjord. But he hasn't faced horrors like the man describes. But, when he speaks of holding on to your humanity even as you become something else, it strikes a chord within him. Now that, he understands. Perhaps he could get along with this group, after all. When he speaks of the voice in the fog, Calder gives it a dismissive sniff from within his hood. Whispers in the mist, the voice of madness and temptation? He'd ignored it handily. And Calder's grasp on mathematics was not particularly firm, but it sounded like most of the work of the Society was hunting down other members of their own order, who had fallen to this "madness and temptation". He had thought he was to become a warrior against the darkness as a way to protect his own people, but now it was starting to look like he was to spend his time cleaning up the messes these Bürach had gotten themselves into? They would do better if they just left these forces alone. The Valikan clans knew better than to meddle with these sorts of things. Bah, regardless. He'd been tasked by his people to aid this group in exchange for Bürach aid; the time to complain had long past. As he dwelt in his thoughts, the others had been asking questions of their host, and the elven member of their band had revealed that he'd been touched by one of the dark forces they'd been assembled to fight against. Sparrow's visage provoked no fear in Calder; some trepidation, perhaps, but not fear. He'd faced stranger things than bears in his remote homeland, and had been taught of them as he prepared to come to Altenheim. Calder placed what he hoped was a reassuring hand on Sparrow's shoulder; the hand is nearly the size of a man's torso, but his touch is light. He could follow Sparrow's gesture of trust with one of his own; he had little to lose by revealing his own secret. He spoke High Bürach well, but with quite an accent. "This is a hard burden to carry; harder than my own, even. It speaks to your strength." The Valikan stood up straight, towering over the other members of their little group. He reached up and pulled his hood off, revealing his face; he was rather rough-looking, with blunt features and a shaved head. "I carry the blood of my forebears, and it has brought me strength. But awakening it did not leave me unchanged. You have my sympathy." Calder was not surprised by the distance some of the others in the group kept from discussing these matters; Irata seemed the only other to have herself open to some degree. But Calder's job was to join this group, so it behooved him to build bonds. He had little else to say, and so he turned his gaze back to the Ringmaster.

Calder Ivarson (Goliath Giant, Rune Knight Fighter 3) AC: 19 | HP: 36/36 | Initiative: +1 | Passive Perception: 13 | Calder Ivarson was normally hard to miss. Nearly twice the size of a normal man, he towered over crowds and almost wouldn't fit through the Red Masque Atelier's door. But fit he did; he was well-practiced at navigating a world built for someone smaller than he. He managed to stay mostly unnoticed by keeping to himself, and by moving with a degree of care that belied his size. He spoke briefly with the young elven woman who staffed the counter; she took his appearance with only mild shock, especially once he started speaking to her in High Bürach. Calder found some of the Valikan masks quite fetching, actually, but upon discussion, the woman feared she might not have a mask that would fit his... dimensions. He gave her a gruff laugh, and said he'd figure something out. When he started using a small knife to cut out a pair of eye-holes in a burlap sack, she convinced him to at least take the mask with him. As the fog swept in and swallowed the world outside, Calder gripped his spear a little tighter; the woman had given him a look when he'd carried it in, but evidently thought better of trying to ask him to put it away. Pulling the sack over his head, he gave the woman's warning a nod, before wishing her well. And so, through the blinding fog he trudged. He kept his focus ahead of him, and paid little heed to the wisps and tendrils. He gave even less to the whispers on the wind; the elf had just warned him to beware what his senses told him, and he paid heed to the words of the wise. As he approached the table, his steps heavy and mail jangling in the quiet street, he saw he was not alone. Others who had left the atelier had arrived before he had, and were evidently waiting. They all stood, surrounded by monstrous figments cast into the mist and darkness. The sound of him likely preceded him, and he likely resembled a monster as he emerged from the fog; around nine feet tall, clad in scale mail and furs, carrying weapons and shield, with a sack over his head and a Valikan mask hanging from his neck. Suddenly, the writhing shadows cast by that lonely candle stilled, and through it walked a man who he presumed was the Ringmaster. At the mention of the Society, Calder smiled from within his hood; he'd come to Altenheim knowing he would fight monsters, and it seemed that the time had finally come. He was ready. He waited for the others to go first; they seemed a varied bunch. This sort of work attracted that, he supposed. When it came to his turn, he spoke, slightly muffled from within his hood; his voice was deep and thickly accented, but quieter than you'd think. His size lent strength to his voice, but he seemed to make a conscious effort to not overwhelm with it's volume. He spoke in High Bürach. "Hail, Ringmaster, and you all. You may call me Ivarson." Mechanics & OOC I hope to have a character picture and icon, as well as more concrete post format, by my next post or so. In the meantime, I've borrowed Bob's. Excited to get started!

Apologies for my delay, got out of work late last night and had an early morning today. Honored to be chosen! It was a pleasant surprise; competition was fierce.