Choomie

My wife hasn't seen any of the Muppet movies so we've been slowly making our way through them.

"Newt" Gaspard • Cattle Rustler The shattering bark of the firearm split the stagnant air, and Jennifer stumbled, colliding with the earth and crumpling to the meadow floor, sprawled beneath vapors of a malicious kind. Newt cursed. The old man's gaze was then captured by a flicker of movement near his downed companion. A local horser woman materialized, seemingly conjured from thin air. There was no time to ponder such strangeness, such suddenness, such violence. Newt drew a bead, the sight of his rifle trailing the bandits. His weapon cracked fire and boomed across the valley. His voice boomed soon after. "They'll be on us 'fore the smoke clears," Newt growled, terse low. "Mack, I'll keep working the ridge. You and Buzz press in and I'll lay down cover. Go get our girl back!" Newt speaks before firing a second shot at the miscreant beside the campfire, south of the parked horses.

I've never played Champions but I've been a long-time fan of the Champions MMORPG, so I'd love to hop in if you'd have the room.

Ponargue functions as a semi-autonomous province within the broader imperial structure. I will include some information regarding Ponargue swearing fealty and tribute to the central imperial authorities. I can also add information related to the empire providing stability and protection, and how the empire extract resources and taxes from Ponargue while Ponargue receives border protection. King Elmo is in a tense position because he must balance serving his imperial masters while also appearing to preserve the kingdom's cultural identity and autonomous decision-making. Some issues that could be addressed might be Ponargue resisting excessive taxation or military conscription, which could cripple Ponargue's economy and society. Imperial banners would clash heavily with the traditional Ponargese, who value their institutions and culture; they face the pressure to conform to a new standard. How can the ruling house guarantee that the Empire will not intervene or interfere with internal affairs, or perhaps install a new candidate on the throne? What are the consequences? It could mean the imposition of harsh, foreign governors, stripping of Ponargue's autonomy, or even outright military occupation. We can play up on the fact that their resources are unstable, and so they have to venture out to either establish new trade agreements or resource pacts, or they may need to acquire foreign technologies. I have Reynard here to challenge the ideals of Ponargue, since he will be prioritizing new diplomatic ties and exchanges between nations, even some that are totally unfamiliar to Ponargue. King Elmo is not a dynamic decision-maker, and he hesitates especially during wartime/conflicts. That, and threats from opposing neighbors, weigh heavily on his mind. Given his age, I think it would be appropriate for him to have known some of the older rulers, or the ones that have recently passed away. He is also trying to find a wife suitable for his son, to bring into his House; Reynard would rather marry someone outside the kingdom, someone powerful and fascinating, that can keep up with his insatiable zest for new experiences. I can add some notes on the neighboring city-states of the Wurnan Isles, Kenterpine, Brulspag, and Gilbant. To expand on Brulspag: Brulspag serves as a critical buffer state and frontier garrison for the Empire. This arrangement creates a tense relationship with Ponargue. Historically, Brulspag has a martial culture and expansionist tendencies, and is viewed with unease by the insular Ponargese. There had been border skirmishes and resource disputes in the past. They do have a fragile codependence as well; Brulspag relies on Ponargese ports and coastal access, as well as their agricultural bounty, while Ponargue has previously used Brulspaggen mercenaries to help defend their borders from raiders. There is a constant tension between the realms, but open conflict is generally avoided.

Ready for Review

She is a Cleric, maybe there's a story to be had there about divine intervention or something like that. I know Newt would have something to say about that given the backstory I laid out for him. Just an idea.

I have the bones of my app up but I'm running into editor issues. I'll get this fixed soon.

"Newt" Gaspard • Cattle Rustler The light slanted through the gapteeth of the pines and fell dappled on the meadow's floor, and Newt's eyes drank it in bitter. He saw Jennifer and he saw the rise and fall of her breathing, and he watched her movement and the thugs' movements like a dream outside the regularness of time. Those lank and ravening men with their jaws hung by wants and appetite; Newt could smell them across the distance like stale wind. He drew air deep into his lungs and felt the slugging weight of the rifle in his hands. Closing one eye against the barrel's rising sight line he saw in a thin wink of focus the bandito up the ridge silhouetted by wands of light cast from the campfire. New bored the sights dead on the middle of that shape, drawing back the hammer with his thumb. Then the spark roared flamewise, and the powder propelled the ball forth while the rifle bucked and Newt saw through the old smoke trails as that dark body awaited to be sent earthward, bonelessly giving into shock. He savored the impending moments. Newt targets the furthest bandit, who is still within the normal 80 foot range of the rifle.

Ponargue Province Region, Culture, & Standing Region Expansive marshlands, estuaries, and lagoons characterize Ponargue’s southeastern coastline. This coastal wetland region was formed by the ancient delta of the Avonrose River, which empties into the Sea. The marshy terrain supports a rich ecosystem and is home to many species of waterfowl, fish, and other wetland wildlife. Inland from the coast lies Ponargue’s fertile farmland region, consisting of rolling hills and plains ideal for agriculture. Large tracts of the land are devoted to vineyards, orchards, and pasture, with crops intersected by streams of irrigated canals. Agriculture, especially wine and fruit production, is the backbone of Ponargue’s economy. North and west of the farmlands, the terrain becomes more rugged with forested hills and valleys containing glacial streams and hidden glades. These woodlands provide valuable timber resources and habitat for game animals important for hunting. Along Ponargue’s western border, the land transitions to a mountainous upland region of steep, rocky hills and deep ravines. This rugged terrain forms a natural geographical boundary separating Ponargue from the valley to the west. Major population centers in Ponargue developed along the Avonrose River and coastline to benefit from maritime trade and river transport. Architectural styles in towns and cities are archaic, with distinctive red-tiled roofs and ornate stonework. Small agricultural villages dot the landscapes between larger settlements. Culture The citizens of Ponargue are a diverse population with origins tracing back to the kingdom’s earliest settlers in antiquity. Major ethnic groups include descendants of Wurnian islanders from the west, Kenterpish populations from the north, and more recent immigrants from Brulspag and Gilbant. Physically, Ponargese people typically have olive skin, dark hair, and strong facial features reflecting their coastal roots. However, centuries of mixing have also introduced blonder hair, lighter skin, and distinctive northern phenotypes. Ponargue is renowned for its thriving artistic scene, nurtured by deep pride in traditions and craftsmanship. Local artisans specialize in weaving, metalworking, pottery, and glassblowing. Beyond the arts, Ponargese excel at agriculture, viticulture, and pastoralism, respecting nature as a partner rather than dominating it. Festivals and communal celebrations are integral to Ponargese culture, bringing people together in song, dance, and merrymaking. There is a strong work ethic alongside joy de vivre and appreciation for simple pleasures. Close-knit rural communities lie at the heart of Ponargese society. The kingdom’s isolation and mountainous terrain complicate infrastructure development and integration regionally. Some Ponargese remain wary of outside change, fueling protectionist tendencies and occasional xenophobia. Overreliance on climate-sensitive agriculture leaves the kingdom vulnerable to environmental disruptions like drought or depletion of resources. Economic diversification and adaptation to risk are ongoing strategic priorities. However, Ponargese resilience, community spirit, and cultural richness have enabled the small kingdom to endure challenges throughout its history. With prudent stewardship, it aims to secure future prosperity while safeguarding distinctive ways of life. Standing As a coastal kingdom along the strategic sea trade route, Ponargue has long served as a vital commercial hub. Its chief port sees ships from across the known world exchanging goods, resources, and ideas. This central role in regional commerce bolstered Ponargue’s wealth and international connections. However, the kingdom’s cultural insularity and isolationism also led outsiders to view it as provincial. Ponargue is sometimes slower than their peers to adopt new technologies or integrate with wider social movements. This mix of economic importance and slow-moving traditionalism gave Ponargue a contradictory reputation -- respected as stable and affluent, yet also dismissed as backward. Views within the kingdom also varied on balancing prosperity, autonomy, and innovation. To the north, the militaristic Brulspaggen saw Ponargue with envy and distrust, wary of its potential influence. Across the mountains, the reclusive Kenterpine maintained cordial but distant ties through modest trade and cultural exchange, respecting mutual isolation. Across the sea, the enigmatic Wurnan Isles fascinated and unsettled Ponargese with rumors of wonders and perils from those distant islands. Overall, Ponargue cooperated cautiously with neighbors while guarding its sovereignty and culture. Situated at a strategic maritime intersection, Ponargue rose to prominence through commerce. However, its insular nature and differing rates of modernization compared to peers complicated international perceptions of the wealthy kingdom between envy, respect, and dismissiveness. Ponargue aimed to balance prosperity, autonomy, and regional engagement. Stats Realm Martial: 1 Commercial: 3 Agricultural: 4 Industrial: 2 Artistic: 4 Leftover Points: 0 Settlements Capital City of Moselle-Markt (Martial 1, Commercial 3, Artistic 3) At the seat of Ponargue’s monarchy and the hub of its economic and cultural life, Moselle-Markt is a bustling, cosmopolitan city. Situated at the mouth of the Avonrose River, where it empties into the sea, the city’s strategic location has made it a center of maritime trade and commerce for centuries. The architecture of Moselle-Markt blends Kenterpish, Brulspag, and Gilbant influences, with whitewashed walls, red-tiled roofs, and ornate brick chimneys lining winding streets and canals. Towering cathedrals, grand plazas, and ornate civic buildings speak to the city’s wealth and importance. While Moselle-Markt is not primarily a center for martial development, it does maintain a respectable garrison to guard the harbor and protect against potential threats. However, the city’s true strengths lie in its thriving commercial and artistic endeavors. Artisan workshops, textile factories, and bustling marketplaces hum with activity, while universities, theaters, and museums foster the kingdom’s vibrant intellectual and cultural life. Minor City of Pateauxplona (Industrial 2, Agricultural 3) Positioned further inland along the Avonrose River, the city of Pateauxplona is a hub of agricultural production and processing. Its economy is centered around the abundant farmlands, vineyards, and orchards that surround the city, as well as the timber and mineral resources of the nearby forested uplands. The architecture of Pateauxplona reflects this focus on industry, with functional, utilitarian buildings designed for efficiency rather than ornate grandeur. Large granaries, mills, and warehouses dominate the skyline, alongside the modest but well-crafted homes of the city’s farming and artisan classes. While not lacking in cultural amenities, Pateauxplona’s primary identity is that of a hardworking, industrious center of production. Its people take great pride in the quality of their crops, livestock, and handcrafted goods, which are exported throughout Ponargue and beyond. The city also serves as a regional hub for the distribution and transportation of these vital resources. Hamlet of Avonsrode (Agricultural 1, Artistic 1) Nestled along the rolling hills and winding streams of Ponargue’s interior, the small hamlet of Avonsrode is a bucolic, pastoral community. Its people are primarily engaged in subsistence farming, animal husbandry, and the harvesting of natural resources like timber and freshwater fish. The architectural style of Avonsrode is simple yet charming, with thatched-roof cottages, small family homesteads, and humble places of worship constructed from local stone and wood. A central market square serves as the heart of the community, where villagers gather to barter goods, exchange news, and socialize. While lacking in grand monuments or centers of industry, Avonsrode is renowned throughout Ponargue for the skill of its weavers, potters, and other artisanal craftspeople. These modest but talented individuals produce high-quality textiles, ceramics, and wooden furniture that are valued across the kingdom. In essence, Avonsrode represents the quintessential Ponargese settlement -- an idyllic, self-sufficient community deeply rooted in the land and its traditions, yet also contributing to the kingdom’s cultural and economic tapestry. Connections Allies Aukam Stewardship: Operating from the rural hamlet of Avonsrode and the surrounding woodlands, the Aukam Stewardship is a secretive order dedicated to environmental protection and stewardship of Ponargue’s natural bounty. Comprised of naturalists and rangers, they view the kingdom’s property as intrinsically tied to ecosystem health. Discreetly monitoring the balance of flora and fauna, safeguarding endangered species, and intervening against activities threatening equilibrium, the Stewards also guide sustainable practices. While maintaining cooperation with authorities, they value autonomy, confronting only those seen as exploitative. Enemies The Reformists: Based in Moselle-Markt, the Reformist art colony advocates modernization and change. Comprised of urban merchants, artisans, scholars, and intellectuals, they believe Ponargue has become insular and antiquated in a rapidly transforming world. The Reformist progeny promotes the adoption of new technologies, liberalized trade, and embracing outside ideas/influences to position Ponargue competitively. This places them against traditional authorities such as the nobility, clergy, and rural communities. Debates, protests, and occasional unrest result from competing visions for Ponargue’s trajectory. Ruler Details King Elmo IV, age 65 (ruled for 30 years) King Elmo IV is married to Queen Taddea, and they have three children: Crown Prince Reynard, Princess Aimee, and Prince Caspar. Stats Martial: 1 Administrative: 3 Diplomatic: 3 Leftover Points: 5 Personality Elmo IV possesses a strong sense of duty and determination. He ascended to the throne during a time of political instability and worked tirelessly to restore order and unity to the kingdom. Elmo is deeply devoted to his family and takes great pride in his role as a husband and father. However, Elmo can sometimes be perceived as indecisive and or hesitant, particularly when faced with difficult decisions that may impact the kingdom’s future. Despite this, he remains steadfast in his convictions and is willing to make personal sacrifices for the greater good of Ponargue. King Elmo IV’s determination and devotion to his family have earned him the loyalty and respect of his subjects. His cautious nature and hesitancy to act impulsively have helped him navigate challenging political situations and maintain stability within the kingdom. However, his reluctance to take decisive action can sometimes lead to frustration among his advisors and constituents. Nonetheless, King Elmo IV remains committed to the well-being of Ponargue and its people, striving to uphold the legacy of his predecessors while forging a path toward a brighter future. Connections Allies Lady Carmona Chanson Lady Carmona Chanson comes from a long line of noble families within Ponargue, tracing her lineage back to one of the founding houses of the realm. She is known for her grace and unwavering loyalty to King Elmo IV. Lady Carmona is a skilled diplomat and advisor, often serving as a voice of reason and counsel to the king in matters of the state. Lady Carmona holds a prominent position at court, serving as the Mistress of the Wardrobe and overseeing the royal household. In addition to her duties within the palace, she also acts as an ambassador for the king, forging alliances and fostering diplomatic relations with other noble houses and factions with Ponargue. Lady Carmona is known for her keen intellect, making her a formidable presence in both social and political circles. She is fiercely loyal to King Elmo IV, viewing him not only as her liege but also as a close friend and confidant. Despite her noble upbringing, Carmona is empathetic and compassionate, often advocating for the needs of the people within the kingdom. Lord Mugithad Pond Lord Mugithad Pond hails from the neighboring Kingdom of Brulspag, known for its strong military and rugged landscape. He is a seasoned warrior and strategist, having earned renown on the battlefield for his tactical prowess. Despite his background, Mugithad is also well-versed in diplomacy and politics, making him a valuable ally to King Elmo IV. Lord Mugithad serves as the commander of Brulspaggen’s Elite Vanguard, tasked with protecting the kingdom’s borders and defending itself from external threats. He has formed a close bond with King Elmo IV through their shared experiences and their mutual respect for one another’s leadership abilities. Mugithad is a Stoic and disciplined individual, embodying the ideals of honor, duty, and loyalty that are highly prized within Brulspag society. He is fiercely protective of those under his command and will stop at nothing to ensure the safety and security of his land. Despite his gruff exterior, Mugithad is also known for his unwavering sense of fairness and justice, earning him the respect and admiration of both his allies and enemies alike. Enemies Duke Palun Granavre Duke Palun is a powerful nobleman who has long harbored resentment towards King Elmo IV. He comes from an ancient and influential family with deep ties to the royal court. However, Palun has always felt overshadowed by the monarchy and covets the throne for himself. He is ambitious, cunning, and unscrupulous in his pursuit of power. Palun is known for his manipulative nature and willingness to use any means necessary to achieve his goals, including betrayal and deceit. He has amassed a network of supporters within the royal houses and poses a significant threat to King Elmo IV’s rule. Their rivalry is a source of tension within the kingdom’s political landscape, with each maneuvering to outwit and undermine the other. Baroness Bensande Ercoral Baroness Bensande Ercoral is a formidable noblewoman hailing from the neighboring Gilbant state, a region that has long vied for dominance with the kingdom of Ponargue. Her family's ancestral lands bordered the northern marches, and it is here that the seeds of her enduring animosity with King Elmo IV were sown. Years prior, a dispute erupted over the demarcation of the shared border, with both sides accusing the other of encroaching on their sovereign territory. Ercoral's family was diplomatically overwhelmed, and after a brief period of conflict, her family's estate was seized and incorporated into Ponargue's domain. She holds King Elmo directly responsible for the devastating loss of her family's prestige, and she has nursed a public desire for retribution. From her modern, lavish estate in Gilbant's capital, Bensande Ercoral commands a vast network of informants. Heir Crown Prince Reynard Crown Prince Reynard, age 28 Reynard is known for his sharp mind and insatiable thirst for knowledge. He has a deep fascination with history, the natural sciences, and the cultures of distant lands. This intellectual prowess has made him a respected figure among Ponargue's scholars and academics. The crown prince possesses a natural charm and eloquence that allows him to easily connect with people from all walks of life. He is skilled at navigating the delicate web of noble politics, forging alliances, and diffusing tensions through his diplomatic acumen. Reynard's thirst for knowledge and progressive mindset makes him out of touch with the more pragmatic concerns of everyday Ponargese life. He can be quick to champion ambitious reforms without fully grasping the complexities of implementation. Like his father, Reynard also tends to overthink decisions, delaying his commitment to a course of action. Those who seek a swift and resolute leader grow frustrated. Reynard's forward-thinking has occasionally put him at odds with his more traditionally-minded father, King Elmo IV. The two often clash over the pace and direction of change within Ponargue, creating tension within the royal household. Though Elmo loves his son, the differences in their temperaments have strained their bond. He views his son's enthusiasm for progression and keen interest in foreign influence a threat to Ponargue's cherished customs that have stabilized the nation. In turn, Reynard often finds his father's conventional adherence to be short-sighted. He's become impatient with his father's resistance to progress. Both men are ultimately driven by a deep desire to see Ponargue thrive. Elmo recognizes Reynard's strengths and potential to be an exceptional ruler, but his son's idealism leaves the kingdom vulnerable. This colors their relationship with underlying concern and uncertainty. Neighboring City-States Wurnia / The Wurnian Isles The scattered archipelago of the Wurnia Isles is situated just off the western coast of Ponargue, having long captivated the imaginations of the kingdom's people - yet also filling them with deep unease. These tropical islands, shrouded in lush vegetation and encircled by crystalline-clear waters, are viewed as both alluring and unsettling by the staid and traditional Ponargese neighbors. Tales of their vibrant and hedonistic ways, rich with song and dance, and esoteric spirituality, have filtered back to the mainland, sparking fascination with the Reformist art colony. The few merchants who have braved travel to the treacherous, storm-wracked seas to trade with the Wurnian people return with exotic wares such as fragrant spices, vivid dyes, and intricately carved wooden idols. They also share exaggerated accounts of a way of life that defies the rigid and cherished customs of Ponargue. The Wurnian people are unbound by societal constraints, and their social structures are fluid and mysterious. Ponargese typically stereotype Wurnian visitors as mystical and salacious, with some going as far as referring to them as noble savages. Powerful nobles fear Wurnian customs and view their 'wild and untamed land' as a threat to the balance of Ponargue's own carefully cultivated ways. Wurnians have historically maintained a wary distance from the mainland, viewing the Ponargese as rigid and hostile. The secrets of the Isles have yet to be fully unraveled, something Crown Prince Reynard considers to be of prime importance once he ascends to the throne. The City-State of Kenterpine Nestled amidst the rugged expanse of towering mountains, lies the vast, sparsely populated realm of Kenterpine. Unlike the more temperate climate of Ponargue, Kenterpine's landscape is defined by harsh, unyielding tundra, dense evergreen forests, and treacherous ice-bound waterways. The Kenterpine people who call his unforgiving realm home are a study in stark contrasts. On the one hand, they are renowned for their stoic resilience due to their ability to eke out an existence from what was once seemingly barren land. Kenterpish villages cling to the banks of rushing rivers and the edges of dense taiga, their long-and-stone longhouses weathering the region's brutal winter storms. The Kenterpish revere their ancient, shamanic traditions, and have an intricate and expansive mythology that is fiercely guarded from outsiders. Their artisans are masters of tanning and fur-working, and even their most utilitarian objects come with a sense of sacred significance. Trade caravans bearing furs and timbers make the treacherous journey through the mountains to reach Ponargue, bartering their wares for Ponargese textiles, agricultural goods, and metalwork. But beyond these limited exchanges, there is little active engagement between the two realms. Kenterpish government makes no overt claims on surrounding territory, nor do they seek to impose their beliefs on their neighbors. Ponargese merchants tell tales of the dangerous fauna in Kenterpine, as well as the cruel winter storms. The traditions of Ponargue are something that keenly interest Kenterpish people, and they view their neighbors with alluring fascination. The City-State of Brulspag To the direct north of Ponargue lies the domain of Brulspag. Where Ponargue is known for its bucolic and revered society, Brulspag is a land forged in the crucible of constant conflict and unrelenting ambition. Brulspaggen are proud and fiercely disciplined, and their society is rigidly stratified. At the apex of their hierarchy stands the acting 'Overlord', the current embodiment of the realm's ideologies who commands absolute loyalty from nobles and subjects alike. A vast network of noble houses vie for power and prestige, their militias locked in an endless cycle of skirmishes and disputes. These great families have distinct heraldry and ritualized battle traditions, forming the backbone of Brulspag's formidable military machine. Their soldiers are feared in the local regions for their uncompromising ferocity. They are driven by their zealous belief in their innate superiority as a warrior culture, viewing themselves as destined rulers of the known world. This messianic self-image has fueled countless incursions into the territories of their neighbors, including Ponargue to the south, but has lessened since folding into the Empire. Brulspaggen warbands are a constant stress for neighboring city-states Kenterpine and Ponargue province. The City-State of Gilbant To the southwest of Ponargue lies the rolling hills and lush, verdant valleys of the city-state of Gilbant. The Gilbanti people are descendants of ancient, seafaring colonists who first established their settlements along the region's rugged coastline. They possess bronze skin, dark features, and strong physiques.Their cities are grand and marble-clad, with gleaming temples and imposing halls. The ruling aristocracy descends from the original colonial administration. At the center of Gilbant lies the original Kambergueras, an ancient marble and bronze building that serves as the seat of local government. Here, Gilbanti magistrates convene to deliberate matters of law and policy, and engage in democratic discourse. They dress in tight robes, engage in rhetorical debates, and place great value on public speaking and statecraft. The common folk of Gilbant continue long-running traditions; colorful festivals replete with engaging music, dancing, and ritual offerings celebrate their seasons and the local deities tied to them. Throughout the region are buildings decorated with serpentine motifs, and are used to identify key meeting locations. In the sprawling plazas, Gilbanti people compete in athletic competitions, dances, and practice combat wrestling. Gilbant serves as a waypoint for trade routes, and the local merchants are skilled entrepreneurs that sell locally-produced clay vessels. Historically, Gilbant has often failed at extending its territory despite its political success and influence. Gilbanti people appreciate the unique results of mingling with foreigners, through marriage, discussion, and musical arts. They prize philosophical debates and peaceful discourse, and they are stereotyped as polite, soft-spoken, and unassuming. ✅ I have read and agree to the preliminary info doc.

For me as a player, what kind of kills the mood during a combat encounter is when the GM's response/resolution of a turn of combat is lackluster. The players will spend a week trying to write something cool or epic or tense, and then there's a reply like, "The goblin is killed." I think that, even if the combat is dragging on, it can still be good role-playing and maybe that can keep players engaged as readers?

We aren't waiting on me, right?

TL;DR: Like other users have said, the randomness helps me to 'see' who the character is and can inspire me to step out of my comfort zone to try something new. I do apologize since my response is kind of all over the place. I appreciate TTRPGs for their narrative qualities. As a player, I always focus on story and flavor over mechanics. I've never really embraced TTRPGs as games, I've always enjoyed them as collaborative writing projects. I'm not saying that's how they're defined, or should be viewed, just how I enjoy them. The numbers, stats, and mechanics inform me of who the character is. I think that their imperfections make for a more interesting story. It could maybe prompt more teamwork or collaboration. Because I view these as characters in a story more, I find them more compelling when they have struggles. And it's true, it can be frustrating if your character is really, really poorly done. I made the wrong type of character for a dungeon crawl and I don't think I ever had a good roll in combat (but I also could not help roll natural 1s, apparently). I felt like I wasn't contributing to the story and I really didn't enjoy myself. There's a danger to fully embracing randomness, as your character's incompetence or difficulties could cost the party the game or quest or mission. And while I may enjoy the game for the story, others may enjoy the game part in equal measure if not more, and now they're robbed of the experience. I think the balance with random stats is still making a coherent and competent character mechanically. Doesn't have to be 'optimized', or dare I say 'meta-gamed'. Personally, I never try to min max because in my experience at tables, those kinds of characters have not been very fun to game with or play around. At the same time, I stick very closely to what Stats mean, how they're defined in rule books. I remember getting into an enormous argument with another player in a Pathfinder discord about this, because I was somewhat critical about someone who drops intelligence to gain strength but still wants to be an intelligent person. But representation of mechanics in story is off-topic and this has already become a ramble.

I suppose I will, too. Thank you for the game ya'll, it was a good time. See you around the 'Weave.

That's what I was afraid of, what a shame.

Unforgiven