Dungeons and Dragons Summary: [Session 3] Trouble in Grydain (Mysteries Unearthed) - Pt.1

Hail! Welcome to the city of Grydain!

This week our journey takes the party on such a dangerous adventure that is has to be split up into TWO summaries! 

Here is our sixth and final official Party Member:

Namor, the half-elven paladin

Tinker- an giant fly that Raizos receives as a gift (transforms from a small "toy" to the giant fly)

Here are our newly introduced NPC's:

Twixil- (wood-elf) mysterious traveler that strolls into town after hearing rumors of strange events

Nora- (human fighter) part of Grydain's newest militia. Has spent several years traveling and adventuring with Alor and Niffler as hired mercenaries

Alor- (dwarven ranger) part of Grydain's newest militia. Has spent several years traveling and adventuring with Nora and Niffler as hired mercenaries

Niffler- (deep gnome sorcerer) part of Grydain's newest militia. Has spent several years traveling and adventuring with Alor and Nora as hired mercenaries. Also speaks gibberish

Jaraph- (human) young boy who dreams of becoming an adventurer like "The Party". Hopes to become "The Party's" official squire.

And here are the enemies that have been encountered (so far):

Drider (found dead with the official seal of Grydain on its torso)

Kobolds

Kenkus

Now onward to the adventure so far!

"The Party", furious at the apparent lack of care and information from General Landrorg, are bent on confronting the General, only to find that he has left to retrieve Zelladawn, "The Party's" rogue. Upon their return, Zelladawn informs his companions about a dream he had during his isolated absence, in which he sees his current (and former) friends dead at his feet with the exception of one, who he believed to be dead already. He then hear's the voice of a former enemy encouraging him to stay close to the General and his newly found allies, or all that he has seen in this dream will indeed come to pass.

While Zelladawn relays this information, the General leaves a not with Robbie, the bartender of the Griffin's Wings Tavern & Inn, and departs once again. 

Zelladawn expresses his desire to go and seek out whether or not what he saw (and heard) in his dream is real, and as "The Party" agrees, they receive the note from Landrorg. It states for them that the General and Madame Mireal have left on official City Council business and that they are to not leave town. Angered once again about being left in the dark, "The Party" agrees that it would be best to speak with the General before they depart, hoping that he will inform them of all he knows. 

Six days pass. "The Party" has become relatively famous. The citizens of Grydain wish to spend time with and show their appreciation to their "new found saviors" and it is mostly well received. 

On the sixth day, they awaken from their rooms at the Griffin's Wings to eat breakfast when a stranger bursts through the doors. The stranger is a well armed wood-elf named Twixil who claims to have come to the city of Grydain because she has heard rumors of strange occurrences and wishes to experience them for herself. She assures "The Party" that she will see them again soon and leaves to her room in the Inn.

It is at that time that a messenger from the Keep informs Robbie, who then informs our heroes that they are needed at the Keep. After finishing their breakfast, dawning their armor and equipment, and being stopped by their adoring fans, "The Party" finally makes it to General Landrorg's office at the Keep only to find Grimm, the dragonborn cleric and High Priest of Grydain's Temple to Bahamut, being grilled by Patreon, former Jarl Wilhelm's Uncle and "rightful heir to the title", along with three unknown figures. 

Patreon scorns Grimm for not being able to meet with either Madame Mireal OR General Landrorg, and Grimm "kindly" informs him that they are away on official business and will inform him the moment they arrive. Patreon leavs, once again furious, and assures everyone in the room that the city is in for a rude awakening.

Grimm invites the heroes in begins informing them of the General and Madame Mireal's absence, and that until further notice, he is both the High Priest of the Temple of Bahamut AND acting general of the city. He informs them that the temple is well staffed and will be fine, but the city only has "The Party" to defend them, and since their next assignment will take them outside of the city, the Council has seen fit to hire a new, small militia to keep order. He then introduces the figures that have been silently present since they entered. 

The new militia is compiled of Nora, a very pleasant and very tall human fighter, Alor, and very scottish sounding, very angry/trigger happy dwarven ranger, and Niffler, an even smaller deep gnome sorcerer who seems to only be able to speak in gibberish. The three have seem to have known each other for quite sometime and assure everyone that everything will be fine. Alor asks what their job is specifically, and Grimm then begins to look somber.

Grimm informs Alor and company that their jobs are two patrol, keep the peace, and watch Lord Patreon very closely. They are to report directly to Grimm if they receive any pertinent information or are force to detain anyone.

Grimm then turns to "The Party" and informs them that he has heard several reports of strange noises coming from one of Grydain's  underground vaults. He says that it could be nothing, but given recent events he can not let this go unchecked. He then grows even more stern and tells the heroes to get what they need, inspect the vault, and to return as quickly as possible. After what has recently transpired, Grimm fears that any of the City's apparent enemies could attack at any moment, and that they are very vulnerable with the absence of both the General and Madame Mireal. Grimm fears that we everyone is in grave danger.

The door to the office again opens, revealing a half-elf in chainmail. and our final Party Member Namor joins our heroes. Namor has been on the front lines of battle and was withdrawn from those duties to take on a new position in the City, but Grimm informs him that the General will have to inform of just what exactly that position is. For now, Grimm informs Namor to join "The Party" until such time that the General returns. 

"The Party" is informed that when they are ready, a young man by the name of Jaraph has the key and will take them to the vault. After equipping themselves with new gear from Biffler's, Leaf's, and the Bearion Family Armory, "The Party" meets up with Jaraph and sets out on their way.

Along their rather lengthy journey, Jaraph informs our heroes that he is their biggest fan, and longs for adventure. He dreams of becoming their official squire, and Ogg takes a liking to him and says that they may be able to work something out in the future.

Upon arriving to the location has marked on their map, "The Party" finds themselves in front of two trees with torches on them in what is only known as, "The Forrest". Zelladawn summons his giant owl Serephere to scout ahead to see if there is any looming danger, and through the telepathy they sahre Serephere informs him that there is no threat, but there is also no clearing above the trees witht the torches. Rosie the Pixie, ally of "The Party" and bearer of "toys" appears and informs them that only the key will open the door to the portal. Raizos pulls out the seal of Grydain given to him by Jaraph, who was instructed by Grimm to bestow upon our heroes, and the barrier between the trees dissipates, revealing stairs that lead downward. Rosie, impressed by Raizos, gives him a "toy" and disappears. Jaraph informs everyone that he is staying with the horse and kart, and Ogg gives him one of his hand axes, just in case he needs to defend himself.

"The Party" walks down the stairs to find a broken statue of the former Jarl Wilhelm as well as blood and feathers all along the floor. They walk down a hallway and see broken skeletons twitching and reaching out for their heels. Ogg, not paying attention, steps on an elevated stone trap and sends arrows flying across the room; one of which grazes Raizos. 

They walk further down the vault to find a room with dead lizard-like and raven-like beings scattered around a pool with glowing golden water. Conch attempts to drink the water and suffers divine damage. After several more moments, Chet notices some sylvan writing along the rim of the pool, and reads the following riddle: "To find what you seek, you must first play a beautiful song.” Chet attempts playing to songs alone, and there is a slight brighter glow, but nothing happens. Conch then aids Chet by singing his Siren's Song, and the pool glows and shines even brighter, and there is an audible sound of singing, and the door to the next area room opens.

"The Party" ventures forward, and come to a room with two statues of Kings pointing away from an altar. After thoroughly inspecting the room for magic and traps, two riddles are found, one upon the base of each statue.

One reads in Elvish: *“To give me you must keep me.”

The other in Celestial Reads: *“He who makes me doesn't want me, He who buys me doesn't need me, He who uses me doesn't care.”

After several moments of thinking together, Namor exclaims, "Your Word," to answer the first riddle, and Zelladawn answers the second by saying, "A Casket." Both statues move, and the kings point towards the altar. At that moment, a small locked chest appears on the altar and the door to the next area opens.

Our heroes are then forced to walk down a hallway covered in cobwebs, forcing them in tight quarters. They come upon the body of a dead Drider wearing the official seal of Grydain on its torso. It is then that Ogg and Namor notice something in the corner of their eyes, and from the cobwebs appear five Kobolds and four Kenkus and ambushes "The Party".  Conch then beast-shapes into a large purple scaled spider, and for the first time ever: Chet, Conch, Ogg, Namor, Raizos, and Zelladawn, as well as Serephere and Bardou, fight their enemies as one cohesive party, and after several rounds of tight, confined combat, they defeat their enemies. 

And that is where the session ended. Will the party make it out of the vault intact? Will they discover the contents of the chest? Can General Landrorg be trusted? And what's up with Niffler?!? Perhaps we'll find out next week with the conclusion of Session 3 in Part 2. Until then, watch out for those darn Kobolds, and keep your Geekery alive!

Cites for Pics and Riddles:

Jaraph- https://www.dandwiki.com/wiki/Squire_(5e_Background)
Nora- http://dimelife.deviantart.com/art/Warrior-455236830
Alor- https://www.pinterest.com/gmrberman/tieflings-halflings-dwarves-and-more/
Niffler- https://www.pinterest.com/mrdungeonmaster/gnomes-for-dd/
Twixil- http://www.giantitp.com/forums/showthread.php?208125-3-5-Twixil-Night-Blade-a-hunter-of-the-dead-PrC-LoB-ToB-Ebon-Initiate
D&D Logo- http://engl393-dnd5th.wikia.com/wiki/D%26D_5th_Edition_Wiki
Kobolds- http://forgottenrealms.wikia.com/wiki/Kobold
Kenku- http://www.aidedd.org/dnd/monstres.php?vo=kenku
Drider- http://forgottenrealms.wikia.com/wiki/Drider
Tinker- http://www.deviantart.com/tag/maggot

*Riddles- http://www.dndadventure.com/html/riddles.html

My 5 Geekiest Parts of Christmas and New Years! (A Semi-Triumphant Return)

Greetings and Salutations! 

A belated Merry Christmas and Happy New Year to you all! It's been quite a while since I've posted, I know, and for that, I sincerely apologize. To say that things have been busy would be a bit of an understatement. But, as this is the first day of the new year, I hope to be back active blogging with at LEAST one post a week. Anymore than that, and I would just be setting myself up for failure.

So, over these last few weeks have been "Holiday season", I've gotten to "get my geek on" quite a bit, whether it be hanging out with friends, getting some awesome geeky gifts, or just geeking out in my off time. I'm very excited to share with you all of my recent Geekery :D (man it's been a while since I got to use that word!).

Without further ado, here is: 

My 5 Geekiest Parts of Christmas and New Years!

 5) I got to play SO. Much. D & D!

 By far the biggest, most prevalent geekiest-thing over the last few weeks have been prepping and running D & D games for both my friends and family.

D & D is something that I've been interested in for SOOOOO long and have just recently gotten in to. It's been both a time-consuming and EXPENSIVE endeavor, but I've been able so far to run a session with my family and girlfriend over Christmas as well as began a session that's ongoing for my friends here in Magnolia. 

In case any of you would like specifics, we're playing 5th Edition and I am creating a brand new setting and campaign. So far I've been able to purchase The Player's Handbook, Dungeon Master's Guide, Monster Manual, and Volo's Guide to Monsters, as well as SEVERAL pdf's from the DungeonMastersGuild.com. I've also bought SO MANY DICE!!!!! I've also been hand-making "maps" (or scenes as my Dad called them) but fortunately I found D & D official Tile's over Christmas (Hallelujah! Praise the Lord! Thank Ya Jesus!).

It's been a lot of fun! It's also been stressful (as far as hoping that I meet everyone's expectations and being prepared. I have't received any stress from my family and players). The session in the on-going campaign lasted over 6 hours 😬 The session with my family wasn't as long, but it still took quite a while, and everything that could've gone wrong seemed to have. "The Magnolia Campaign" as I call the ongoing campaign with my friends, is made up of all relatively new players (including a DM, being myself). The "Christmas Campaign" had new players, experienced players, and my Dad, who is not only new to playing, but also not a "geek" at all, but everyone claimed to have had a good time! 

Overall, it was a blast,and I can't wait for the next game! (Which is Tuesday, and I've got to start getting ready!)

4) POP!'S!!!!!!!

Pictured above is my Pop! collection in my office, which currently sits at 120. I received 8 as gifts over Christmas and purchased 16 with Christmas money. My goal was to reach 100 before the new year, and it's safe to say that I crushed it! 

It's honestly become a re-occurring thing to walk by office at the church on Sunday's and Wednesday's to see some of the younger boys gazing up at them and then turn to ask me questions like, "Who's that?" or "You have that one?!?" 

I know to most it seems silly, but it's important to mo to make the office a reflection of myself. I'm a "Geek Under Grace" and I want everyone to know it.

3) I Saw Rogue One Twice

I'm sure that anyone who would read a blog entitled, "Geekery" has also seen Rogue One by now, probably even multiple times. It was a great movie!!!

The reason why I list this in my top geeky things list is because I'm working on making a two-parter lesson series for me teens on Wednesday Nights! We've taken our teens to see all of the Marvel Cinematic Universe films since Guardians of the Galaxy, as well as Rogue One and the Force Awakens. Since the Force Awaken, I've prepared lessons for every movie that we take them to see.

Without getting too preachy, I believe it's important for me as a Youth Pastor and us as a Youth Group to keep God the center of everything we do, even when it comes to seeing movies together. I also have a Major passion for reaching Geeks through Geek Culture. I may make an entry on my other blog, "It's Dangerous To Go Alone! Take This." about why I feel passionate about it, but for now, I definitely think that preparing youth group lessons about a Star Wars movie definitely fits the bill for this list.

2) New Year's Eve = Board Game Night!

So, typically, on New Year's Eve, I put on a Lock-In for the teens at the church, but seeing as how New Year's Day was today on a Sunday, I told them I wasn't about that life. Instead, my brother Joel and I got together with our buddy Adam and played board games! It's literally one of our favorite things to do!

We played some Catan and attempted to play the Steven Jackson game Illuminati. Unfortunately our friend was having some health issues and had to leave early. 

OK, so it wasn't the craziest or geekiest night in the world (Heck, we were done playing at around 11:30). But we get together several times through out the year and play board games like crazy. Adam has gotten us into lots of obscure games like Elder Signs, Boss Monster, Zombie Fluxx, and more, as well as more classic games like Settlers of Catan, Ticket to Ride, and Forbidden Desert. Last night didn't exactly pan out, but we'll have more awesome board game nights in the future!

& lastly

1) I Started Blogging Again!

I really am sorry that I haven't been active (in over a year as Adam pointed out last night). I'm sure most of you understand and the rest probably don't care one way or the other, but this blog meant, and still does mean, a lot to me. I won't make any promises, but I'm going to make it a priority at least once a week to have something to share, on this blog as well as on the Dangerous Alone blog. But if I don't, know that I truly appreciate all of you and that I'll get to it as soon as I can.

In closing, I hope everyone had a Merry Christmas (and Holiday Season in general) and that you all have a Happy, Geeky, and Blessed New Year. God Bless the Geekery!

(pictures were all taken by myself with the exception on:

Title Pic- https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=NO1fnUpn-ZE

D&D Logo- http://engl393-dnd5th.wikia.com/wiki/D%26D_5th_Edition_Wiki

Background Image- 

http://mythcreants.com/blog/5th-edition-dungeons-and-dragons-hasnt-learned-from-its-mistakes/)

5 Reboots That Hold Up

So a couple of months ago on the Blog I added a poll of what post you guys would want to read next....... I got 1 vote. It was 5 Reboots That Hold Up. Now I know that this is an objective topic, and some of you may disagree with me. I Love Movies! And, to be honest, in some cases I'm such a fan of the IDEA of a movie that I'll become a little biased and give it more credit than it may deserve. If you guys disagree with me, I completely understand. I WANT your opinions on the matter. That's why at the end of every blog I ask you guys to add your input in the comment section below. So, without any further delay, here they are:

5 Reboots That Hold Up (In My Opinion!):

5) Man of Steel

This is one that a lot of people hated. Frankly, I really don't get why. It was great! I thought that this movie portrayed the story of the most fearsome, ... uhm, I mean popular (go back and read my post on my fear of Superman [http://2ndtierguardian.blogspot.com/2014/09/serious-take-on-something-non-serious.html]). IMDb.com gave the movie a 7.3 out of 10 Star rating, which again I think was too low. The movie as a whole was great. I saw it in 3-D with a group of close friends, and it was amazing. One of the guys in the group was my older cousin Will, who is a major comic geek. He had one problem with the movie:  [SPOILERS!]  that Superman killed Zod. Superman doesn't kill (suposedly.... read the post!) and the fact that he snaps Zod's neck was a major problem to him. I sort of feel that Superman didn't really have a choice; Zod would've continued to come back and put innocents at risk, and he'd already done enough damage. But, I can understand how that would be a big problem for most folks. Still, Superman stopping the villain of the movie in a fatal way should't ruin a movie. Henry Cavill and Zakk Snyder did a great job, and I can not WAIT for the Sequel. I feel that movie Hold's Up!

4) Robocop

IMDb.com wasn't as nice with this pick, giving it a 6.3 out of 10 Stars. I made the fortunate mistake of watching the reboot first and then went back and saw the original version, and I'm kind of glad, because I'm assuming that's the reason I was allowed to enjoy the Reboot. To me, this movie gets major bonus points: it's one of those movies that make you think about just how far our country will go to keep us "safe". It's a political thriller, in that aspect, which I think is awesome! A "sci-fi/superhero" movie can make us reflect on the state of our society. You combine that with an All-Star Cast, including Gary Oldman, Michael Keaton, Samuel Jackson, and combine the relatively new talent of Joel Kinnaman, Abbie Cornish, Jackie Earle Haley, and Michael Kenneth Williams, and we have a movie that, while based on an incredible Original, still manages to Hold Up!

3) The Amazing Spider-Man (Series)

                   

Again, this movie, or really these movies, have been getting some undeserved heat. I loved these! They were 1,000,000,000 x's better than the Tobey Maguire Trilogy! Andrew Garfield was the Perfect Peter Parker: He was just the right amount of nerdy and charming! They went into the back story of Peter's Parents! And the villains that they chose for this were unexpected and absolutely perfect. This all around was an amazing set of films. Also, they managed to do an awesome portrayal of Gwen Stacey. It's just a much MUCH better attempt (successful attempt at that) at the Spider-Man story. Also, keep in mind that these movies are predecessor's to the Maguire Trilogy, so it isn't hard to beat that. But, IMDb.com gave the first film a 7.1 and the second film a 6.9 out of 10 Stars. That's their opinion. To me, these movies Hold Up! 

2) Star Trek (Series)

                   

I am a Trekkie. I am, I love Star Trek. I've Seen some of the original movies, some of the original show, and I've seen some of The Next Generation, and I'VE LOVED IT! It's amazing. These movies were what got me to become such a fan. From what I've seen, most everybody else agrees with me that these movies were amazing. IMDb.com gave the first movie an 8.0 and the second a 7.8 out of 10, which is better than all of the other films we've looked at. I honestly think one of the big reasons everyone was so accepting of was: [SPOILERS] bringing back Leonard Nimoy as the future Spock, which they did in both films. Star Trek is one of the oldest titles in the modern-era of sci-fi, and adapting such a big name is tricky. You've really got to do it justice for it to work, and I think that these 2 latest movies do just that. You've got Chris Pine, Zachary Quinto, Simon Pegg, Zoe Saldana, Anton Yelchin, John Cho, and Karl Urban as the core crew of the Enterprise, and then you have villains played by people like Eric Bana and Benedict Cumberbatch, and then other big names like Bruce Greenwood, Peter Weller, Ben Cross, and Leonard Nimoy; That's just a great ensemble! These movies have action, adventure, suspense, romance, comedy, and lots and lots of sci-fi! These movies undoubtedly Hold Up!

& finally, the movie(s) that held up better than any other movie(s) have

1) Christopher Nolan's Dark Knight Trilogy

I'm not going to spend a whole lot of time on this number one pick, because it's almost a law that these films were phenomenally well accepted and most certainly hold up to the original films. Nolan was an absolute genius, and managed to bring a very realistic portrayal of Gotham City and all of the criminal/terrorist waves that come upon the city. Christian Bale is a great Batman, and everyone else that they chose for these films were perfect (I'm not going to list them all [go to IMDb.com and look yourself]). Batman Begins received an 8.3, The Dark Knight received a 9.0, and The Dark Knight Rises received an 8.5 on IMDb.com. They Hold Up, plain and simple. 

These were my picks. Tell me yours! Let me know what your picks were, if you disagree or agree with my picks, or just say hi in the comments below. I'll be posting My 5 Games I Can't Wait For In 2015 later today. Also, check out my latest Blog Post over in "It's Dangerous To Go Alone! Take This." on Nehemiah Chapter 1: Do Something! Give Me Geekery or Give Me Death!

[http://dangerousalone.blogspot.com/2015/01/nehemiah-chapter-1-doing-something.html]

5 Even Geekier Things I Do

Hello All! It's 2015!!! Which means a new year of Blogs! I've dedicated myself to cranking out a new post Every Thursday! If I know in advance that something will keep me from a post on a Thursday I'll try to get it out sooner. I may even branch out to other people to help contribute. Today's Post in honor of the new year is about Geekiness (hence the name "Geekery"). Particularly MY geekiness. I did post a little while back about some of the Geekiest things I do. Looking back now, I realize: I do WAY more geeky stuff than that! So, here is

 Even Geekier Things I Do:

5) I Play Pathfinder

Ever since my Uncle first introduced me to Gauntlet: Dark Legacy, I have been OBSESSED with RPG games! I've loved them! So then when I found out that you can play them without a controller, I was all, "Whaaaaa?!?" It's been years searching, bu I finally have a small group of friends that, when time permits, we will bust out the 7-Piece Dice Set, a pencil, and some paper, and we'll play Pathfinder! It's almost Exactly like D&D, but a little cheaper. Now granted, we've only gotten play a hand-full of times (like 5) because everyone is so Gosh-Darn busy, but when we do I'm in Geek Heaven. I'm a Dwarf Cleric named Lothar. Our GM is new to the whole story telling concept, but is a BEAST! If anyone is interested in playing, either on your own with a group of friends, or with me and my friends, please let me know! The starter set isn't that expensive, and it's really easy to play. 

4) I have a Subscription to LOOTCRATE

In case you haven't heard of the AWESOME-NESS that is LOOTCRATE, allow me to fill you in: Once a month LOOTCRATE sends out a box (crate) of awesome geeky goodness (loot) to Your Dor Step! It's a subscription, but the amazing thing is you pick how you want to subscribe! One-time Only? 3 Months at a time? Heck, 6 Months at a time?YOU DECIDE! The subscription starts at $20 a month and goes down from here, depending on the subscription plan you choose. Every Month, there's a new theme, and the value of the contents (loot) within the box (crate) is $40 +. They'll have exclusive, such as Funko Pop!'s, T-Shirts, and Official Licensed Products!! 

Here's a pic of November's "Battle" Themed Crate: 

I guarantee you that EVERY MONTH you'll get something that'll make you geek-out over. And, you can cancel at anytime! This month's theme is "Rewind" which will come with an EXCLUSIVE items from Star Wars, Voltron, a retro gaming mashup figure, and a licensed shirt!

Just go to http://www.lootcrate.com/ to join, and if you use the promo code SAVE3 you'll save $3 off any subscription package you choose! But hurry there's only 11 more days to get this month's crate, and they'l start shipping the crate's between the 20th-25th!!

3) I Collect Nutcrackers

Please excuse the quality of my pictures, my brother the photographer doesn't move in with me until this weekend. I, for the last 8 or 9 years now, have been collecting nutcrackers. I love them! I currently (after racking up this past Christmas) have 54 nutcrackers in my collection. I can remember the first few I got thinking, "Man that's a wicked beard and 'stache!" That's honestly the reason I started collecting them: I loved their beards and mustaches! The hobby just grew and grew. Now granted,I usually can't get them until Christmas time. So unless I have something that I'm just dying to have, when people ask me what I want for Christmas, I'll tell them either money or nutcrackers. For those of you that are also in the nutcracker-collecting game, I only have 2 Kurt Adler's, but I'm DYING to have more (He's THE guy when it comes to Nutcrackers). I hope to one day a) learn to make my own nutcrackers, b) film a horror movie with Joel about Nutcrackers, and c) eventally open a hotel that's Nutcracker-themed and have 2 massive columns out front that are made to look like Nutcrackers!

2) I Helped Fund The "Boss Monster: The Video Game" On Kickstarter

Boss Monster is a standalone card game that challenges 2-4 players to become videogame-style villains and build deadly side-scrolling dungeons. Players compete to see who can attract and destroy the most adventurers. But beware! You must make your dungeon as deadly as it is attractive, or the puny adventurers might kill you first! Made by Brotherwise Games, the game is up and coming, and is quickly getting more and more attention. In fact, now, after a highly successful Kickstarter campaign, Brotherwise Games raised enough funds to bring Boss Monster to digital platforms. Video game developer Plain Concepts, creators of Wave Engine, are currently hard at work on this digital tabletop conversion. I helped fund this!!! My friend introduced me to the game! It really is just a ton of fun, and the "video game" is going to be available on Steam, Android Tables, iOS for the iPad, and the Kindle Fire HD! Here's a link to et yourself a copy of the physical Table-Top Card Game;

http://shop.brotherwisegames.com/ProductDetails.asp?ProductCode=BMA-GAME

& finally, of the absolute most Geeky Things I DO

1) I Have A Blog Called "Geekery"

I know, this one probably comes as a shock to you all, considering you're already on the Blog reading this *forced laugh, then awkward stare*. This has GOT to be one of the geekiest things I do, by far. And you know what? I LOVE IT! It's awesome to get to share these thoughts and idea's and passions with you all. I know that at least some of you like it because I wouldn't have gotten over over 1,030 views! I love doing this. Sometimes it's difficult, and sometimes it get's neglected, but I honestly am so glad that I started this blog just a few short months ago, and I look forward to Every post coming in the future.

There you go! 5 things that while most people would be ashamed to admit them, I proudly proclaim! What are some geeky things that you all do? Have any comments or suggestions about mine? Let me know in the comments below.

Below are some links for you all to check out. I've mentioned before that I review for the website Geeks Under Grace. Everyone there is so awesome and Geeky and love the Lord. Also, my friend and I have began streaming on Twitch, so please check out some of our past streams, and keep in touch for our new ones coming son. And lastly, I have a New Blog! It's called "It's Dangerous To Go Alone! Take This." that's all about what God is trying to give us through Scripture for this dangerous journey called life. Check them all of these out! Onward in 2015 to Geekery!

It's Dangerous To Go Alone! Take This

http://dangerousalone.blogspot.com/

My Twitch

http://www.twitch.tv/secondtierguardian

My Friend Veritasu's Twitch (We're a Group)

http://www.twitch.tv/veritasu/profile

My Geeks Under Grace Reviews

http://www.geeksundergrace.com/author/treycampbell/

The Top 5 Responses I Get When I Tell People I'm A Minister & A Geek

So, as I've several times in my posts, I'm a Christian. I'm a Missionary Baptist. To be even more specific, I'm the Youth/Assosciate Pastor at Calvary MBC in Magnolia, AR. I'm also a geek, obviously. I rep my Geekery proudly. That's the premise of this post: how people react to me being both a geek and a preacher. You can't even begin to imagine some of the responses I get when people find out that I teach Sunday school AND lead a crusade against the blight in Dragon Age; that I do puppet shows for the church youth AND got my Blastoise up to level 75 on Pokemon X; that I take the teens to camp over the summer AND that my DVR is full of The Walking Dead, Once Upon A Time, The Flash, Arrow, Marvel Agents of Shield, Gotham, Girl Meets World, and The Five Year Engagement (ok, those last two may have revealed TOO much about myself...... I'm so ashamed). People seem almost appalled sometimes when they find this out and I would wonder why? However, at the same time, people's expectations of Pastor's are set so high, it's a wonder anyone ever lasts in ministry. All of that being said, let's get into it, shall we?

The Top 5 Responses I Get When People Hear That I'm A Geek & A Minister:

5) "You Must Be A Youth Pastor." Why yes, actually, I am. This is the one I get the least. As a youth pastor, I do kind of have an excuse to still be quote "childish". As a youth pastor, it is important to stay up to date with what the youth is immersing themselves in. Video Games, Juvenile Fiction Books, TV Shows and Movies are what they're into, and it's what you can use to relate to them. The Gospel is meant to be spread, but it's also meant to be shared in a way that people can understand, and being a geek and witnessing to other geeks, it's my job to reach them in a way that they can better come to know Christ. Being a youth pastor means that I am trying to lead kids to Christ, and I can't do that unless I can be on their level. I have to be immersed into what they're always around. 

4) "Does The Church Know About This?" Ask anyone at my church, and they'll either tell you that I'm weird, eccentric, a geek, a nerd, or that I'm "crazy" as the kids in children church say. Yes, the church knows that I'm a geek. They know that I'm odd, and a goof ball. All of these blog posts are "advertised" on my Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram. I'm not ashamed of showing people who I really am. I'm 100% saved. I love Christ, with my whole heart. I'm also a geek. I am who Christ made me. I believe that I am upfront enough that I'm a Christian and that everything I post you can see that. Is every church member thrilled by all of my decisions? No. Everyone will NEVER be pleased with Everything you do. That's a fact. So I'm me. I never try to be anything other than me. As long as I am right with God, what other people say or do or feel, doesn't matter. Bottom line. 

3) "Don't You Have Better Things To Do?" Ok, ....... sometimes, Yes, there are other things I could be doing. There's ALWAYS something the everyone could be doing more productive. So honestly, I can't really argue my way out of this one. Nor could anyone. I could try to bring up the fact that at-least I'm not doing this or this person does that or blah blah blah. That's called justification. I'm not gonna justify the fact that sometimes I geek out on things when I should be doing something else. I'll simply say this: I would never let my Geekery become a problem. If it ever gets to the point that my geekiness overshadows my Christianity, then I'm doing something wrong, and I'll do my best to change it. 

2) "Isn't That Sacrilegious?" Is what Sacrilegious Having a hobby? Being passionate about something? No! Of course not. Being a geek/games/movie enthusiast/nerd/whatever isn't sac-religious. Some of the options that are available to get passionate about are, yes. But loving video games and watching movies aren't sacrilegious, no. We have to guard our hearts and not give in to temptation. We have to be selective when it comes to choosing what we Geek out on. That should go without saying, but unfortunately it has to be repeated constantly. We have to look past stereotypes and get into the nitty gritty, but for most people, it's easier to judge things as a whole. Being a geek doesn't make you sacrilegious. Being sacrilegious make you sacrilegious. Going against what God has said is right and wrong for us, that's the problem. 

& finally, the response I get the most

1) "Grow Up." I'll admit, this one does tend to get under my skin. How do you respond to this? What do you say? When people say this, their minds are pretty much made up about what's "acceptable" to them. Being a geek isn't about age appropriate-ness, it's a lifestyle. It's something that transcends age. It's also something that has to be carefully entered into. Again, as I've stated in the other points: we have to be careful about what we Geek out on. Some things, the world has deemed wrong, or unacceptable, or childish, and we live in that world. Honestly, what we need to do is pray. Pray about whatever it is we want to be passionate about. See what God's Word has to say about it. Most people go to the passage of Scripture in 1 Corinthians Chapter 13 where Paul said, "When I was a child, I spake as a child, I understood as a child, I thought as a child:but when I became a man, I put away childish things." But that's taking the verse out of context. That entire chapter is about how we love as compared to God's love. God's love is patient and understanding, and when people try to tear us down or make fun of us for our interests and hobbies, then they aren't being very understanding or patient with us. Grow up. I am a grown up, and I have interests. I have hobbies. I have things that I am passionate about. I have grown up, and as a grown up, I don't demean others for what they care about.

That's my list. These things are almost always said to me when people find out what my interests are and consider what my profession, or really calling, is. What do you guys think? Is it wrong to be a Geek and a Preacher? What are your opinions on the matter? Let me know in the comments below. And remember, never let your Geekery outshine God and what He's doing through You!

My Best Friends & Their Group Stereotypes

I have a great group of best friends. I know that usually the term "best friend" is reserved for one person, or at most a small select few, but honestly, the people that I am going to be posting about are ALL my best friends. "But wait, why is he posting about this in a blog about geeky things?!?" Trust me, all of these people are geeks (even if they don't admit it). Some of them have been my best friends ever since I was born, and some came later in life, but all of them have been there for me, and all have them have enriched me with Geekery!

Each friend has either introduced something to me, or we experienced something together, or we discovered and thwarted an attempt at world domination. Or something like that. These are people I would definitely want with me during a zombie outbreak, alien invasion, horror movie situation, or just to chill out and play xbox or cosplay with. So, here are:

My Best Friends & Their Group Stereotype:
(I will only be using first names for their own discretion)

Joel (My Brother) = The Quiet One. Joel is by far my absolute closest friend in the world. Some people say that brothers can't be friends, but them I say, ''Silence Mortals!'' Joel is the resident quiet one in my circle of friends. While when it's just the two of us he never really shuts up, whenever we go out on adventures, Joel is silent. Stone Cold Killer Quiet. he may snicker or say a brief statement, but then it's back to quietly plotting our demise.... I mean..... Cookies! Joel and I share many things in common, and experienced almost everything together. We love watching Saturday Night Live and Impractical Jokers, playing Super Smash Bros and Diablo 3, and making videos. Joel is actually planning to go to school where he can actually hone the craft. We actually are both working on two separate scary short films! It's gonna be awesome whenever we get everything worked out. I'll be sure to post them on here! Just don't expect Joel to do many speaking parts.

Dean = The Wildcard. Dean has been my best bud since we were 3 years old. We were best friends all through school (except that one dark year, 3rd grade, where he went to a different school..... I can't talk about it; I get too emotional) and still are. Dean's a true geek if I've ever seen one. But it's interesting; he's also a real country bumpkin. So you never really know what to expect from him. Hence the wildcard. He'll go from talking about Borderlands and going on and on about how Deadpool could beat Colossus (which he so can not Dean, I'm sorry [that's his and mine favorite super heroes]) to ranting about Obama and how Hank Williams Jr. is true country and all of these yahoo's nowadays are ruining country music. And before you go dissing his geek cred, trust me; he's legit. We're talking anime binge-watching, Fallout playin', Warp Zone loving fool. Half of his biweekly checks go straight to Gamestop. He will literally work for tacos (that doesn't really testify to his geekery, but I just thought I'd throw it in). Not afraid to make a fool of himself in public, and is always ready for a road trip or an adventure. He also literally stays with me every other weekend and brings his own TV and Xbox and stays in my recliner 70 out of the 72 hours he's here. Dean is definitely a, .... Dang it..... what's that thing in Uno where you pick the color? Oh yeah, WILDCARD!

Jared = The Busy One. (He's gonna kill me for using this) We met at a church camp probably 6 or 7 years ago now, and we've been best pals ever since. Jared is a Pastor, a Teacher, and a Gas Station Worker person, thingy..... So it's understandable that he's ALWAYS BUSY! But it's OK, were still friends. Somewhere in all of that he's a geek. Jared kindled my Magic the Gathering flame! He's hardcore MTG though, like almost to an unhealthy level. (No, not really. I only exaggerate because I know he's going to read this.) We also obsessively watch Face Off and Wizard Wars on Syfy. I always invite him over to watch, but.......

Dustin = The One "So Far Away". Dustin and I met my freshman year at Seminary. I believe he was wearing a Batman logo-ed t-shirt with a Superman Messenger Bag. It was geeky bromance at first sight. Dustin and I were slackers in seminary (we actually started a club). During lunch breaks we would always run over to Hastings and browse all of it's epicness. One day a group of us all chipped in and bought Ninja Turtles plastic cups and Rocked them in the next class. Were funny looks given? Absolutely. But when your shell brothers are with you, you make like a Taylor Swift song and "Shake It Off". The few times we were able to get together outside of class involved road trips out of states and going to see the latest Carrie movie. We also watched the Mid-Season 4 Walking Dead Premiere together.  But alas, we both wound up dropping out of seminary (at different times for different reasons). Now we're at opposite ends of the state and never get to hang. We keep up with each other via Facebook (he challenged me to the ALS Ice Bucket Challenge, which I accepted and OWNED!). But much like the Hemmorage lyrics by Fuel, Dustin is "So faaaaaar away".

Adam = The Uber Intelligent One. I met Adam just over a year ago, and we quickly became best amigos. I was the Pastor his Mom's church, and she introduced us. We instantly connected and now a church and a job later, we still get together quite frequently. He's actually coming over later this week. Adam is a major film buff, specifically 80's horror/slasher. The thing about Adam is that he's a GENIUS! Adam has been through more school then I EVER care to endure. He is an avid gamer, though he prefers vintage games (maybe because he just about every video game console, ever..... even an old Galaga arcade system!!!!). Adam is dedicated to sharing classic cinema with me (I haven't seen many of the "Classics"). We've watched Jaws, Dual, Star Trek 2: Wrath of Kahn, the original Carrie, The Shining (movie, not mini-series), Alien, Aliens (His FAVORITE!!!!!!), the original Robocop, Road Warrior, the original black and white Invasion of the Body Snatchers, the Japanese film Battle Royale, and then we've also seen more recent movies in theaters, such as The Amazing Spider Man 2 (there is SUCH a funny story to go with that), Guardians of the Galaxy, and Annabelle. He's introduced me to the amazingly awesome website Steam (I know, I'm a failure for taking so long to learn about it), and also the Now Playing Podcast, which if youve never heard of it go subscribe right now and listen to them review movies. (Go ahead, I'll wait..... Right now..... GO!). We'll watch movies together, and then he'll go to tell me his opinions, and his vocabulary is so large and he's so passionate that I'm left with jaw open going, "Uhm, ....... yeah.... me too........ I like it when the guy says, 'Game over man!'......" But that's Adam, the "brains" of the group.

Chris = The Family Man. So most of you probably know by now that I'm a Christian. I'm actually a Youth Pastor. When I came to the church that I'm serving at I met Chris, one of the youth leaders. Chris and I have become almost inseparable. The only thing standing in the way of our bromance is his wife and kids. HA! Just kidding, Chris' wife and kids are amazing! Chris is a huge geek (Actually he and Adam are both Nerds, but we'll let it slide). He used to be a big games back in college. He's told me that he and his buddies would get together and play Mario Kart weekends at a time, and swears that NO ONE can beat him at Golden Eye on the 64. I was actually telling someone recently that if Chris wasn't married and a father that we'd probably live together, and when I told him he was like, "You would so cause me to become addicted to video games again!" I guess fortunately for him he is married and a father, and it's awesome because his kids are being trained in the ways of geekery! As much as we love to hang with each other, his responsibilities keep us from going on many epic quests, therefore earning the label "Family Man", but I wouldn't want it any other way (I respect him for being a father and husband first above all else [and a Christian above that]).

Nicole = The Girl. Every group needs a Girl! Batman and Superman have Wonder Woman. The Avengers have Black Widow. Mario and Luigi have Peach. Heck! Even the Ghost Busters have their secretary! Nicole is our girl. Nicole is a couple of years older than me, and while we've known each other for a good long while, we never really started to hang until after I graduated. Nicole is majorly active in her church, and is always upbeat and happy. She's the sunshine to our groups ecosystem (Wait, ..... Did that make sense? Oh well!). She's a major Marvel maniac, a Doctor Who enthusiast, and one of the only other fans of Once Upon A Time that I've been able to find and get excited over! And while she's swimming in a sea of testosterone, she's always up for just about anything and still remains feminine.

James = The Instigator. "Oh boy Marge!" James, James, James...... What can you say? Once my Youth Pastor and now the Bowser to my Mario...... Just Kidding (He's a Major Mario fan, so I had to work that in there somehow)! James is a dear friend. When he was my Youth Pastor he took me under his wing and tried to impart his wisdom to me, and now that we're both adults and friends, he challenges me. He wants me to formulate my own opinion and not just take other people's word. We don't always agree, but no two friends will always see eye to eye. We do however both enjoy playing Munchkin, Mario, and going to the movies. James is a mega-nerd, and I love it! He's also, "The Instigator"! (That'd be a sweet Villain Name!)

(Now the last two are married, so I'm going to do them together)

& finally

JW and Allison (My Aunt and Uncle) = The Guru and The One That Gives Great Advice. Some people may think it's lame, but yes, my aunt and uncle are two of my very best friends. They're a team. JW is the gaming guru, and while Allison used to be a major gamer herself, they have a a family now, so she's become very maternal, so she's become more of a confidant. They're a yin and yang when it comes to our friendship. JW is the person I go to for gaming advice, and Allison is the one I go to for personal advice. These two introduced Joel and myself to gauntlet: Dark Legacy (which is the greatest game EVER!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!) and the Diablo Series, as well as the Gears of War Series and XCOM. They've also helped me through other areas of my life where I've needed guidance (JW has also surrendered to the ministry) such as with women, ministry, regrets, family tragedies, etc.. JW will play through an entire Gears of War game through a night where as Allison and I will laugh and talk and solve the mysteries of the universe in a night. And it's not that I can't talk to JW about serious matters or play video games with Allison, this is just the roles that they've taken on in our friendship, and I'm happy to have a game loving uncle and an advice giving aunt.

HONORABLE MENTION:

Drew = The "Board" One. Drew has been one of my best comrades for years now! We both surrendered to ministry when we were young, and grew up as Brothers in Christ. He's currently in China right now teaching English. One thing that Drew loves is being "board". Board games that is! Drew and I love playing table top games! He introduced me and Joel to (and actually sold us the game to go to China) Legendary: A Marvel Deck Building Game. He also sold me his copy of Munchkin, which he taught Joel and I to play as well. He's a great friend, and I can't wait to get to play some games with him when he get's back from China. We'll be "board" together!

So those are my Best Friends! What do you think? What are your friends like? Have any like mine? Le me know in the comments below! And when you have children, make sure to train them in the ways of Geekery. Otherwise, this planet will Fall!