A dog that I love
Quinto
Love for a dog
Quinto
A dogged love
Quinto
Doggedly loved
 |
| 1997-2012 |
Tuesday, August 21, 2012
A eulogy.
Quinto
A dog that I love
Quinto
Love for a dog
Quinto
A dogged love
Quinto
Doggedly loved
A dog that I love
Quinto
Love for a dog
Quinto
A dogged love
Quinto
Doggedly loved
Thursday, August 16, 2012
Daughter of the Demon
And lastly, a femme fatale and conflicted lover of the Bat.
TALIA AL GHÛL “HEAD”
Female Human Fast 3/Charismatic 6/Mastermind* 4; CR 13
Medium-size Humanoid (height 5’ 8”, weight 141 lb.); Age unknown (apparent late 20s)
* See Urban Arcana
Init +4; Senses (core) Listen +5, Search +3, Spot +3; Senses (house) Listen/Spot +15, Search +6
Languages English, Arabic, Farsi (speak only), Hebrew (speak only), Hindi (speak only), Latin (read/write only), Mandarin, Russian (speak only), Spanish (speak only), Tibetan (speak only), Urdu (speak only)
Defense 21, touch 21, flat-footed 21; Defensive Martial Arts, Dodge (+4 Dex, +7 class)
hp 63 (13 HD); Mas 12
Fort +6, Ref +10, Will +8
Action Points 10
Speed 30 ft.
Melee unarmed strike +11/+6 (1d4+1 lethal/nonlethal, 20)
Melee rapier +12/+7 (1d6+1 piercing, 18-20)
Ranged MP3-S pistol +12/+7 (2d6 ballistic, 20, 40 ft., S, 8 box)
Ranged by weapon +11/+6
Space 5 ft. by 5 ft.; Reach 5 ft.
Base Atk +7; Grp +8
Atk Options Opportunist, Point Blank Shot
Special Qualities none
Abilities Str 12, Dex 18 (16), Con 12, Int 16 (15), Wis 12, Cha 18
'(-)' indicate original ability scores.
Allegiances global harmony, her father, Batman (Bruce Wayne), evil, the League of Assassins; Rep +4; San 49
Feats Aircraft Operation (helicopters), Arcane Skills (see Urban Arcana), Archaic Weapons Proficiency, Combat Martial Arts, Deceptive, Defensive Martial Arts, Dodge, Low Profile, Personal Firearms Proficiency, Point Blank Shot, Simple Weapons Proficiency, Weapon Finesse
Skills (core) Balance +6, Bluff +12 (+6 toward men), Climb +3, Computer Use +5, Concentration +3, Decipher Script +6, Demolitions +6, Diplomacy +15 (+6 toward men), Disguise +10 (+6 toward men), Drive +5, Forgery +9, Gather Information +14 (+6 toward men), Hide +7, Intimidate +9 (+6 toward men), Knowledge (arcane lore) +7, Knowledge (business) +6, Knowledge (current events) +8, Knowledge (history) +6, Knowledge (streetwise) +8, Knowledge (tactics) +7, Knowledge (theology and philosophy) +8, Listen +5, Move Silently +9, Perform (dance) +6 (+6 toward men), Pilot +5, Read/Write Arabic, Read/Write English, Read/Write Latin, Read/Write Mandarin, Ride +6, Sense Motive +12, Speak Arabic, Speak English, Speak Farsi, Speak Hebrew, Speak Hindi, Speak Mandarin, Speak Russian, Speak Spanish, Speak Tibetan, Speak Urdu, Spellcraft +4, Spot +3, Survival +4, Swim +3, Treat Injury +7, Tumble +8, Use Magic Device +6
Skills (house) Athletics +6, Computer Use +5, Control +5, Deduce +6, Demolitions +6, Disguise +10 (+6 toward men), Drive +5, Forgery +9, Gather Information +14 (+6 toward men), Knowledge (arcane lore) +8, Knowledge (business) +6, Knowledge (current events) +8, Knowledge (history) +6, Knowledge (streetwise) +9, Knowledge (tactics) +8, Knowledge (theology and philosophy) +8, Perceive +15, Perform (dance) +8 (+6 toward men), Persuade +20 (+2 on Bluff [+8 toward men], +6 on Diplomacy, Intimidate toward men), Pilot +5, Read/Write Arabic, Read/Write English, Read/Write Latin, Read/Write Mandarin, Ride +6, Sneak +12, Speak Arabic, Speak English, Speak Farsi, Speak Hebrew, Speak Hindi, Speak Mandarin, Speak Russian, Speak Spanish, Speak Tibetan, Speak Urdu, Spellcraft +4, Survival +4, Treat Injury +7, Tumble +9, Use Magic Device +8
Note: As a member of the League of Assassins, Talia has chosen to receive 2 free ranks in each of Demolitions and Survival as her membership perk.
Talents (Fast) Evasion, Opportunist
Talents (Charismatic) Captivate, Charm (males), Favor
Talents (Mastermind) Equipment Connections, Exceptional Minions, Minions, Plan X, Uncanny Dodge 1
Starting Occupation Adventurer (Demolitions, Survival as permanent class skills; Archaic Weapons Proficiency)
Possessions (carried weight 7 lb.) Benelli MP3-S autoloader (mastercraft [+1], 9mm; 2 lb.), formal outfit (3 lb.), rapier (mastercraft [+1]; 2 lb.), various personal items
Note: As a high ranking member of a powerful organization, Talia has access to most any item she needs, including restricted, illegal, or military items.
Wealth Bonus varies (can get as high as +30 depending on her activities)
Female Human Fast 3/Charismatic 6/Mastermind* 4; CR 13
Medium-size Humanoid (height 5’ 8”, weight 141 lb.); Age unknown (apparent late 20s)
* See Urban Arcana
Init +4; Senses (core) Listen +5, Search +3, Spot +3; Senses (house) Listen/Spot +15, Search +6
Languages English, Arabic, Farsi (speak only), Hebrew (speak only), Hindi (speak only), Latin (read/write only), Mandarin, Russian (speak only), Spanish (speak only), Tibetan (speak only), Urdu (speak only)
Defense 21, touch 21, flat-footed 21; Defensive Martial Arts, Dodge (+4 Dex, +7 class)
hp 63 (13 HD); Mas 12
Fort +6, Ref +10, Will +8
Action Points 10
Speed 30 ft.
Melee unarmed strike +11/+6 (1d4+1 lethal/nonlethal, 20)
Melee rapier +12/+7 (1d6+1 piercing, 18-20)
Ranged MP3-S pistol +12/+7 (2d6 ballistic, 20, 40 ft., S, 8 box)
Ranged by weapon +11/+6
Space 5 ft. by 5 ft.; Reach 5 ft.
Base Atk +7; Grp +8
Atk Options Opportunist, Point Blank Shot
Special Qualities none
Abilities Str 12, Dex 18 (16), Con 12, Int 16 (15), Wis 12, Cha 18
'(-)' indicate original ability scores.
Allegiances global harmony, her father, Batman (Bruce Wayne), evil, the League of Assassins; Rep +4; San 49
Feats Aircraft Operation (helicopters), Arcane Skills (see Urban Arcana), Archaic Weapons Proficiency, Combat Martial Arts, Deceptive, Defensive Martial Arts, Dodge, Low Profile, Personal Firearms Proficiency, Point Blank Shot, Simple Weapons Proficiency, Weapon Finesse
Skills (core) Balance +6, Bluff +12 (+6 toward men), Climb +3, Computer Use +5, Concentration +3, Decipher Script +6, Demolitions +6, Diplomacy +15 (+6 toward men), Disguise +10 (+6 toward men), Drive +5, Forgery +9, Gather Information +14 (+6 toward men), Hide +7, Intimidate +9 (+6 toward men), Knowledge (arcane lore) +7, Knowledge (business) +6, Knowledge (current events) +8, Knowledge (history) +6, Knowledge (streetwise) +8, Knowledge (tactics) +7, Knowledge (theology and philosophy) +8, Listen +5, Move Silently +9, Perform (dance) +6 (+6 toward men), Pilot +5, Read/Write Arabic, Read/Write English, Read/Write Latin, Read/Write Mandarin, Ride +6, Sense Motive +12, Speak Arabic, Speak English, Speak Farsi, Speak Hebrew, Speak Hindi, Speak Mandarin, Speak Russian, Speak Spanish, Speak Tibetan, Speak Urdu, Spellcraft +4, Spot +3, Survival +4, Swim +3, Treat Injury +7, Tumble +8, Use Magic Device +6
Skills (house) Athletics +6, Computer Use +5, Control +5, Deduce +6, Demolitions +6, Disguise +10 (+6 toward men), Drive +5, Forgery +9, Gather Information +14 (+6 toward men), Knowledge (arcane lore) +8, Knowledge (business) +6, Knowledge (current events) +8, Knowledge (history) +6, Knowledge (streetwise) +9, Knowledge (tactics) +8, Knowledge (theology and philosophy) +8, Perceive +15, Perform (dance) +8 (+6 toward men), Persuade +20 (+2 on Bluff [+8 toward men], +6 on Diplomacy, Intimidate toward men), Pilot +5, Read/Write Arabic, Read/Write English, Read/Write Latin, Read/Write Mandarin, Ride +6, Sneak +12, Speak Arabic, Speak English, Speak Farsi, Speak Hebrew, Speak Hindi, Speak Mandarin, Speak Russian, Speak Spanish, Speak Tibetan, Speak Urdu, Spellcraft +4, Survival +4, Treat Injury +7, Tumble +9, Use Magic Device +8
Note: As a member of the League of Assassins, Talia has chosen to receive 2 free ranks in each of Demolitions and Survival as her membership perk.
Talents (Fast) Evasion, Opportunist
Talents (Charismatic) Captivate, Charm (males), Favor
Talents (Mastermind) Equipment Connections, Exceptional Minions, Minions, Plan X, Uncanny Dodge 1
Starting Occupation Adventurer (Demolitions, Survival as permanent class skills; Archaic Weapons Proficiency)
Possessions (carried weight 7 lb.) Benelli MP3-S autoloader (mastercraft [+1], 9mm; 2 lb.), formal outfit (3 lb.), rapier (mastercraft [+1]; 2 lb.), various personal items
Note: As a high ranking member of a powerful organization, Talia has access to most any item she needs, including restricted, illegal, or military items.
Wealth Bonus varies (can get as high as +30 depending on her activities)
Monday, August 13, 2012
A private entreaty made public.
Three years ago this week, I was fully entrenched in my new life as an assistant language teacher in Japan. Today, again in the U.S., I look back at the statement of purpose that helped to get me there.
A ten-year-old boy dances out of bed and hurries down the hall; light flickers across his face as the TV screen comes to life, and he is immersed into a world of ninja, katana blades, nunchaku, and mutant turtles. In high school that same boy writes a picturesque adventure story about heroes who live in a world of silk and chrysanthemum, ruled by mighty shoguns and daimyos all of which are loyal to the will of Tokugawa. In college, he studies intently the many colors and cultures of the world—from the science of music and food, to the heart of history—thrilled by them all but drawn time and again to the majestic traditions of Nippon. Fond as they are, these are only memories, and though I have come to learn much about this island of Japan, my true knowledge of it is no less foggy.
Long as I can remember, I have had a love affair with the world of Japan, both its fact and its fiction. Like others of my generation, I have grown up enjoying Japanese anime, eating noodles, rice, and egg rolls, practicing karate, and saving up for when I could afford an authentic samurai sword to hang on my wall. As with learning a second language, you have to go to the place of origin if you really want to master it. Fortunately, I have grown very comfortable using the English language (in speaking, in writing, in storytelling, etc.), and now I see a great opportunity to take my language and my talents to a place I have often only fantasized about, and share them with a people who are eager to learn, and who will no doubt teach me even more.
I am the ideal candidate for a position as an ALT with the JET Program(me) because I am an “every day person.” By that I mean every day I try to make good use of myself. Every day I examine what is around me and figure out how I fit in. Every day I look to find the value of something new, something old, or to take something old and make it new. I know when words are important, and when its better to remain silent. And every day, I try to place myself in a setting that complements my abilities, and strive to make sure my abilities complement others. As such, my teaching experience is extensive for someone of my age, boasting hundreds of days of in-class work with students from kindergarten to senior high school. Primarily, my strengths as a student and teacher lie in the humanities, namely social sciences, literary analysis, reading and writing, history, and religion (though I am capable in all areas, including math and science). My teaching style is low-key and calm, where I am much more likely to wait and listen while observing a situation before moving to act. Though when action is needed I tend to be decisive while exercising discretion. My experience in public speaking and working in many different classroom settings has well prepared me for group instruction, having little stage fright. As a camp counselor and one-on-one tutor I have learned effective ways of mediating disputes in a social setting, by myself or in concert with others. And my work has not been limited only to the local level, as I have thrice served as part of the back stage crew as a member of the Future Farmers of America at national leadership conventions, meeting and escorting celebrities and keynote speakers and coordinating staff and equipment. Thus too, I have tested experience working as a member of a team, as teachers at a school must do.
During my stay in Japan, I would hope to create a personal and meaningful relationship with the school and the community that supports it. I would hope to take part in after-school programs to better acquaint myself with the students I teach, and to work closely and gainfully with the teachers to whom I am assigned. In general, my aim would be to make life-long friends with whomever I came in contact, ensuring our friendship would not end after my contract has run out. In the future, employers would see my experience working with JET as a high-water mark for consideration in hiring me. And, though it would not supersede my responsibilities as an ALT, my hope is that through the inevitable cultural exchange that would follow, further opportunities to pursue my interests in anthropology and archaeology would arise as well.
A ten-year-old boy dances out of bed and hurries down the hall; light flickers across his face as the TV screen comes to life, and he is immersed into a world of ninja, katana blades, nunchaku, and mutant turtles. In high school that same boy writes a picturesque adventure story about heroes who live in a world of silk and chrysanthemum, ruled by mighty shoguns and daimyos all of which are loyal to the will of Tokugawa. In college, he studies intently the many colors and cultures of the world—from the science of music and food, to the heart of history—thrilled by them all but drawn time and again to the majestic traditions of Nippon. Fond as they are, these are only memories, and though I have come to learn much about this island of Japan, my true knowledge of it is no less foggy.
Long as I can remember, I have had a love affair with the world of Japan, both its fact and its fiction. Like others of my generation, I have grown up enjoying Japanese anime, eating noodles, rice, and egg rolls, practicing karate, and saving up for when I could afford an authentic samurai sword to hang on my wall. As with learning a second language, you have to go to the place of origin if you really want to master it. Fortunately, I have grown very comfortable using the English language (in speaking, in writing, in storytelling, etc.), and now I see a great opportunity to take my language and my talents to a place I have often only fantasized about, and share them with a people who are eager to learn, and who will no doubt teach me even more.
I am the ideal candidate for a position as an ALT with the JET Program(me) because I am an “every day person.” By that I mean every day I try to make good use of myself. Every day I examine what is around me and figure out how I fit in. Every day I look to find the value of something new, something old, or to take something old and make it new. I know when words are important, and when its better to remain silent. And every day, I try to place myself in a setting that complements my abilities, and strive to make sure my abilities complement others. As such, my teaching experience is extensive for someone of my age, boasting hundreds of days of in-class work with students from kindergarten to senior high school. Primarily, my strengths as a student and teacher lie in the humanities, namely social sciences, literary analysis, reading and writing, history, and religion (though I am capable in all areas, including math and science). My teaching style is low-key and calm, where I am much more likely to wait and listen while observing a situation before moving to act. Though when action is needed I tend to be decisive while exercising discretion. My experience in public speaking and working in many different classroom settings has well prepared me for group instruction, having little stage fright. As a camp counselor and one-on-one tutor I have learned effective ways of mediating disputes in a social setting, by myself or in concert with others. And my work has not been limited only to the local level, as I have thrice served as part of the back stage crew as a member of the Future Farmers of America at national leadership conventions, meeting and escorting celebrities and keynote speakers and coordinating staff and equipment. Thus too, I have tested experience working as a member of a team, as teachers at a school must do.
During my stay in Japan, I would hope to create a personal and meaningful relationship with the school and the community that supports it. I would hope to take part in after-school programs to better acquaint myself with the students I teach, and to work closely and gainfully with the teachers to whom I am assigned. In general, my aim would be to make life-long friends with whomever I came in contact, ensuring our friendship would not end after my contract has run out. In the future, employers would see my experience working with JET as a high-water mark for consideration in hiring me. And, though it would not supersede my responsibilities as an ALT, my hope is that through the inevitable cultural exchange that would follow, further opportunities to pursue my interests in anthropology and archaeology would arise as well.
Saturday, August 11, 2012
The Brain of Wayne Enterprises
Here's the man behind the Bat in the Nolanverse.
LUCIUS FOX
Male Human Smart Ordinary 3/Dedicated Ordinary 2/Charismatic Ordinary 2; CR 6
Medium-size Humanoid (height 6’ 1”, weight 175 lb.); Age late 60s
Init –1; Senses (core) Listen +2, Search +3, Spot +2; Senses (house) Listen/Spot +12, Search +3
Languages English, French, German, Japanese, Sign
Defense (core) 13, touch 13, flat-footed 13; Defense (house) 13, touch 10, flat-footed 13; (–1 Dex, +4 class)
hp 16 (6 HD); Mas 7
Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +6
Action Points 7
Speed 30 ft.
Melee unarmed +3 (1d4 nonlethal, 20)
Melee by weapon +3 or
Ranged by weapon +2
Space 5 ft. by 5 ft.; Reach 5 ft.
Base Atk +3; Grp +3
Atk Options none
Special Qualities none
Abilities Str 10 (13), Dex 8 (11), Con 7 (10), Int 17 (14), Wis 14 (12), Cha 14 (12)
'(-)' indicate original ability scores.
Note: Lucius has age penalties and bonuses due to old age.
Allegiances Wayne Enterprises, good, his family; Rep +5; San 67
Feats Educated (Knowledge [business, technology]), Gearhead, Simple Weapons Proficiency, Trustworthy, Windfall
Skills (core) Computer Use +10, Diplomacy +14, Gamble +6, Gather Information +14, Knowledge (art) +8, Knowledge (business) +16, Knowledge (civics) +10, Knowledge (technology) +12, Profession (broker) +12, Profession (industrialist) +12, Read/Write English, Read/Write French, Read/Write Sign, Repair +8, Research +8, Sense Motive +12, Speak English, Speak French, Speak German, Speak Japanese
Skills (house) Computer Use +10, Gamble +6, Gather Information +14, Knowledge (art) +8, Knowledge (business) +16, Knowledge (civics) +10, Knowledge (technology) +12, Perceive +12, Persuade +14, Profession (broker) +12, Profession (industrialist) +12, Read/Write English, Read/Write French, Read/Write Sign, Repair +8, Research +8, Speak English, Speak French, Speak German, Speak Japanese
Starting Occupation (core) Entrepreneur (Diplomacy as permanent class skill, +1 on Knowledge [business])
Starting Occupation (house) Entrepreneur (Persuade as permanent class skill, +1 on Knowledge [business])
Possessions formal outfit (business suit; 3 lb.), various personal items
Wealth Bonus +21
Male Human Smart Ordinary 3/Dedicated Ordinary 2/Charismatic Ordinary 2; CR 6
Medium-size Humanoid (height 6’ 1”, weight 175 lb.); Age late 60s
Init –1; Senses (core) Listen +2, Search +3, Spot +2; Senses (house) Listen/Spot +12, Search +3
Languages English, French, German, Japanese, Sign
Defense (core) 13, touch 13, flat-footed 13; Defense (house) 13, touch 10, flat-footed 13; (–1 Dex, +4 class)
hp 16 (6 HD); Mas 7
Fort +3, Ref +2, Will +6
Action Points 7
Speed 30 ft.
Melee unarmed +3 (1d4 nonlethal, 20)
Melee by weapon +3 or
Ranged by weapon +2
Space 5 ft. by 5 ft.; Reach 5 ft.
Base Atk +3; Grp +3
Atk Options none
Special Qualities none
Abilities Str 10 (13), Dex 8 (11), Con 7 (10), Int 17 (14), Wis 14 (12), Cha 14 (12)
'(-)' indicate original ability scores.
Note: Lucius has age penalties and bonuses due to old age.
Allegiances Wayne Enterprises, good, his family; Rep +5; San 67
Feats Educated (Knowledge [business, technology]), Gearhead, Simple Weapons Proficiency, Trustworthy, Windfall
Skills (core) Computer Use +10, Diplomacy +14, Gamble +6, Gather Information +14, Knowledge (art) +8, Knowledge (business) +16, Knowledge (civics) +10, Knowledge (technology) +12, Profession (broker) +12, Profession (industrialist) +12, Read/Write English, Read/Write French, Read/Write Sign, Repair +8, Research +8, Sense Motive +12, Speak English, Speak French, Speak German, Speak Japanese
Skills (house) Computer Use +10, Gamble +6, Gather Information +14, Knowledge (art) +8, Knowledge (business) +16, Knowledge (civics) +10, Knowledge (technology) +12, Perceive +12, Persuade +14, Profession (broker) +12, Profession (industrialist) +12, Read/Write English, Read/Write French, Read/Write Sign, Repair +8, Research +8, Speak English, Speak French, Speak German, Speak Japanese
Starting Occupation (core) Entrepreneur (Diplomacy as permanent class skill, +1 on Knowledge [business])
Starting Occupation (house) Entrepreneur (Persuade as permanent class skill, +1 on Knowledge [business])
Possessions formal outfit (business suit; 3 lb.), various personal items
Wealth Bonus +21
Tuesday, August 7, 2012
The Commish
And now, the hero cop.
Commissioner JAMES “JIM” WORTHINGTON GORDON
Male Human Strong Hero 1/Dedicated Hero 3/Investigator 9; CR 13
Medium-size Humanoid (height 5’ 11”, weight 168 lb.); Age mid 50s
Init +1; Senses (core) Listen +9, Search +8, Spot +7; Senses (house) Listen/Spot +16, Search +16
Languages English
Defense 19, touch 19, flat-footed 18; Defensive Martial Arts (+1 Dex, +8 class)
hp 71 (13 HD); Mas 13
Fort +7, Ref +6, Will +8
AP 10
Speed 30 ft.
Melee unarmed +10/+5 (1d4+2 lethal/nonlethal, 20) or
Melee by weapon +10/+5
Ranged 9 mm pistol +10/+5 (2d6 ballistic, 20, 30 ft., S, 14 box) or
Ranged S&W pistol +10/+5 (2d6 ballistic, 20, 30 ft., S, 6 cyl.) or
Ranged by weapon +10/+5
Space 5 ft. by 5 ft.; Reach 5 ft.
Base Atk +9; Grp +10
Atk Options Bull’s Eye, Double Tap, Point Blank Shot
Special Qualities None
Abilities Str 13 (14), Dex 12 (13), Con 13 (14), Int 15 (13), Wis 15 (13), Cha 13 (11)
'(-)' indicate original ability scores.
Note: Jim has age penalties and bonuses due to middle age.
AL justice, Gotham City, good, GCPD, his family, the Bat Family; Rep +4; San 53
Feats Alertness, Armor Proficiency (light), Bull’s Eye (see Ultramodern Firearms), Combat Martial Arts, Defensive Martial Arts, Double Tap, Educated (Knowledge [behavioral sciences, civics]), Personal Firearms Proficiency, Simple Weapons Proficiency, Point Blank Shot, Precise Shot, Trustworthy
Skills (core) Bluff +7, Climb +5, Computer Use +4, Diplomacy +10, Drive +4, Gather Information +8, Investigate +12, Knowledge (behavioral sciences) +7, Knowledge (civics) +7, Knowledge (current events) +8, Knowledge (streetwise) +11, Knowledge (tactics) +7, Listen +9, Read/Write English, Research +4, Search +8, Sense Motive +12, Speak English, Spot +7, Swim +4, Treat Injury +5
Skills (house) Athletics +9, Computer Use +4, Deduce +16, Drive +4, Gather Information +10, Knowledge (behavioral sciences) +8, Knowledge (civics) +7, Knowledge (current events) +10, Knowledge (streetwise) +12, Knowledge (tactics) +7, Perceive +14 (+2 on Listen, Spot), Persuade +14 (+2 on Diplomacy), Read/Write English, Research +4, Speak English, Treat Injury +6
Talents (Strong) Melee Smash
Talents (Dedicated) Empathy, Intuition
Talents (Investigator) Contact (high-level, low-level, mid-level), Discern Lie, Nonlethal Force, Profile
Starting Occupation (core) Military (Drive as permanent class skill, +1 on Climb; Combat Martial Arts)
Starting Occupation (house) Investigative & Military (Drive as permanent class skill, +1 on Athletics; Combat Martial Arts)
Possessions (carried weight 17.5 lb.) basic evidence kit (6 lb.), FN BDAO 9 mm (2 lb.), formal outfit (office attire; 3 lb.), overcoat (3 lb.), steel handcuffs (1 lb.), Smith & Wesson Model 10 (2 lb.), concealed carry holster (shoulder; 0.5 lb.), various personal items
Wealth Bonus +11
Male Human Strong Hero 1/Dedicated Hero 3/Investigator 9; CR 13
Medium-size Humanoid (height 5’ 11”, weight 168 lb.); Age mid 50s
Init +1; Senses (core) Listen +9, Search +8, Spot +7; Senses (house) Listen/Spot +16, Search +16
Languages English
Defense 19, touch 19, flat-footed 18; Defensive Martial Arts (+1 Dex, +8 class)
hp 71 (13 HD); Mas 13
Fort +7, Ref +6, Will +8
AP 10
Speed 30 ft.
Melee unarmed +10/+5 (1d4+2 lethal/nonlethal, 20) or
Melee by weapon +10/+5
Ranged 9 mm pistol +10/+5 (2d6 ballistic, 20, 30 ft., S, 14 box) or
Ranged S&W pistol +10/+5 (2d6 ballistic, 20, 30 ft., S, 6 cyl.) or
Ranged by weapon +10/+5
Space 5 ft. by 5 ft.; Reach 5 ft.
Base Atk +9; Grp +10
Atk Options Bull’s Eye, Double Tap, Point Blank Shot
Special Qualities None
Abilities Str 13 (14), Dex 12 (13), Con 13 (14), Int 15 (13), Wis 15 (13), Cha 13 (11)
'(-)' indicate original ability scores.
Note: Jim has age penalties and bonuses due to middle age.
AL justice, Gotham City, good, GCPD, his family, the Bat Family; Rep +4; San 53
Feats Alertness, Armor Proficiency (light), Bull’s Eye (see Ultramodern Firearms), Combat Martial Arts, Defensive Martial Arts, Double Tap, Educated (Knowledge [behavioral sciences, civics]), Personal Firearms Proficiency, Simple Weapons Proficiency, Point Blank Shot, Precise Shot, Trustworthy
Skills (core) Bluff +7, Climb +5, Computer Use +4, Diplomacy +10, Drive +4, Gather Information +8, Investigate +12, Knowledge (behavioral sciences) +7, Knowledge (civics) +7, Knowledge (current events) +8, Knowledge (streetwise) +11, Knowledge (tactics) +7, Listen +9, Read/Write English, Research +4, Search +8, Sense Motive +12, Speak English, Spot +7, Swim +4, Treat Injury +5
Skills (house) Athletics +9, Computer Use +4, Deduce +16, Drive +4, Gather Information +10, Knowledge (behavioral sciences) +8, Knowledge (civics) +7, Knowledge (current events) +10, Knowledge (streetwise) +12, Knowledge (tactics) +7, Perceive +14 (+2 on Listen, Spot), Persuade +14 (+2 on Diplomacy), Read/Write English, Research +4, Speak English, Treat Injury +6
Talents (Strong) Melee Smash
Talents (Dedicated) Empathy, Intuition
Talents (Investigator) Contact (high-level, low-level, mid-level), Discern Lie, Nonlethal Force, Profile
Starting Occupation (core) Military (Drive as permanent class skill, +1 on Climb; Combat Martial Arts)
Starting Occupation (house) Investigative & Military (Drive as permanent class skill, +1 on Athletics; Combat Martial Arts)
Possessions (carried weight 17.5 lb.) basic evidence kit (6 lb.), FN BDAO 9 mm (2 lb.), formal outfit (office attire; 3 lb.), overcoat (3 lb.), steel handcuffs (1 lb.), Smith & Wesson Model 10 (2 lb.), concealed carry holster (shoulder; 0.5 lb.), various personal items
Wealth Bonus +11
Monday, August 6, 2012
Last Hurrah In Japan
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| In mid-July, I was welcomed into the Hashimoto home, the first of several visits to the place where my lady was raised. |
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| The Hashimoto Family (Zen-Buddhist) Shrine |
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| I spent considerable time conversing with Yume's mother and grandmother while seated around the kitchen table—the more exclusive domain of the Japanese women. Here, Yumeko poses with a bowel of dried, salted veggies as we munch on other healthy snacks. |
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| Then we bounce outside to visit with the family dog—Mabou! |
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| A dog and his owner. |
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| Much as I love dogs, my camera can't help but veer more toward the adorable girl kneeling beside him. |
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| That weekend, Yume and I made for Shimoda Park to go jogging and take in the sights from atop the high observation tower at its heart. |
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| Some of my last views of the gorgeous "blue forests" for which Aomori takes its name. |
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| The two of us at the end of our jog. (I wonder if you can tell what question she had just answered for me by the look on her face.) |
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| A couple weeks later, my mom arrived in Aomori to help me pack and return to the US. Our first walk out around town and she stopped to snap this shot: something about it screamed "missing 'L'" to her~ ;) |
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| Later, we ran across the Colonel who decided to follow suit and ask my mother's hand in marriage. (Don't know what you're getting into there, Colonel~!) |
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| My mom got a kick out of this example of wasei eigo ("Japanese English") found in the food court at the local mall. |
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| The following day, we drove to Kabushima Beach, and took a stroll up to see the adjoining shrine. |
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| Climbing to the top… |
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| At the pinnacle, we encounter no shortage of fearless "sea cats" (umineko, or sea gulls) guarding Kabushima, having dodged white splats from their backends all the way up. |
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| That's right—shirtless and braving the bird scat! |
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| A beach angel on patrol |
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| Fortunately, the beach angel takes kindly to my presence after a brief swim. |
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| At my farewell dinner, Mom was asked to get up and show off her tap dancing skills, minus the taps. |
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| She clearly still manages to enjoy herself. |
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| And I will never forget you. (Clockwise starting from the left: Ruairi McLaughlin [friend and fellow ALT], Mr. Yoshida [office aide], Mr. Tsukuda [schools coordinator], Mr. Tsutsumi [office head], Mr. Fujimori [schools coordinator], Mr. Kawaguchi [ALT coordinator], Mr. Isezuki [office aide], Ms. Komukai [office aide], Mr. Hakamada [superintendent], Mom [wonderful parent], and this guy [lucky dude]). Thanks Japan! |
Saturday, August 4, 2012
The Butler
Having presented the main Bat-villains featured in the Nolanverse of films, let's delve into a couple allies of the Dark Knight Detective. First up, loyal servant and confidant of the Wayne Family:
Male Human Strong Hero 1/Fast Hero 1/Smart Hero 1/Dedicated Hero 9; CR 12
Medium-size Humanoid (height 5’ 10”, weight 160 lb.); Age early 70s
Init +1; Senses (core) Listen +10, Search +7, Spot +10; (house) Listen/Spot +19, Search +11
Languages English, French, German
Defense 20, touch 20, flat-footed 19 (+1 Dex, +9 class); Defensive Martial Arts
hp 40 (11 HD); Mas 11
Fort +5, Ref +5, Will +11
Action Points 8
Speed 30 ft.
Melee unarmed strike +7/+2 (1d4 lethal/nonlethal, 20) or
Melee by weapon +7/+2
Ranged Mossberg shotgun +8/+3 (2d8 ballistic, 20, 30 ft., S, 6 int.) or
Ranged by weapon +8/+3
Space 5 ft. by 5 ft.; Reach 5 ft.
Base Atk +7; Grp +7
Atk Options Combat Expertise
Special Qualities none
Abilities Str 10 (13), Dex 12 (15), Con 11 (14), Int 15 (13), Wis 19 (15), Cha 16 (13)
'(-)' indicate original ability scores.
Note: Alfred has age penalties and bonuses due to old age.
Allegiances the Wayne Family, good, the Bat Family, the British Crown; Rep +4; San 94
Feats Alertness, Attentive, Combat Expertise, Combat Martial Arts, Defensive Martial Arts, Iron Will, Meticulous, Personal Firearms Proficiency, Simple Weapons Proficiency, Surgery, Trustworthy, Windfall
Skills (core) Bluff +7 (+9 after 1 min. of study), Computer Use +6, Diplomacy +8 (+9 after 1 min. of study), Disable Device +6, Disguise +6, Drive +6, Forgery +6, Gather Information +8, Investigate +7, Knowledge (behavioral sciences) +6, Knowledge (streetwise) +9, Knowledge (tactics) +6, Listen +10, Perform (act) +6 (+9 after 1 min. of study), Pilot +4, Profession (butler) +13, Profession (chef) +8, Read/Write English, Read/Write French, Read/Write German, Repair +6, Research +5, Search +7, Sense Motive +11 (+9 after 1 min. of study), Speak English, Speak French, Speak German, Spot +10, Survival +6, Swim +2, Treat Injury +15, Tumble +4
Skills (house) Computer Use +6, Deduce +9 (+2 on Investigate, Search), Disable Device +6, Disguise +6, Drive +6, Forgery +6, Gather Information +8, Knowledge (behavioral sciences) +6, Knowledge (streetwise) +9, Knowledge (tactics) +6, Perceive +19 (+9 on Sense Motive after 1 min. of study), Perform (act) +6 (+9 after 1 min. of study), Persuade +10 (+2 on Diplomacy [+9 after 1 min. of study]), Pilot +4, Profession (butler) +13, Profession (chef) +8, Read/Write English, Read/Write French, Read/Write German, Repair +6, Research +5, Speak English, Speak French, Speak German, Survival +6, Swim +2, Treat Injury +15, Tumble +4Talents (Strong) Extreme Effort
Talents (Fast) Evasion
Talents (Smart) Savant (Knowledge [streetwise])
Talents (Dedicated) Empathy, Faith, Healing Knack, Intuition, Skill Emphasis (Treat Injury)
Starting Occupation Military (Drive, Pilot as permanent class skills; Personal Firearms Proficiency)
Possessions (carried weight 10 lb.) dustpan, formal outfit (English butler's suit; 3 lb.), hand broom, Mossberg 12-gauge Model 500 ATP6C (7 lb.), various personal items
Wealth Bonus +16
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