*Also, Dark's got a point. If we RP here, it won't die, simple as that. And saying it's dying means that it's more likely to die when it can be saved.*
I agree with Dark and Angler, but also have something else to add:
From what I can tell as this thread’s owner and second-most-frequent poster, the Bloody Barnacle has never been an especially quick-moving or prolific thread. That’s how it was designed, after all — I wanted the tavern to be a casual, story-focused experience akin to a campaign anyone can participate (or DM) in. You wanna explore something, or fight something, or try running an encounter to see how it goes? Then this was the ideal place.
In others words, this thread is far more of a Spider Guild or Universe Smörgåsbord than a Better Days Sanatorium or Vanderbilt Academy. And although we’ve acquired quite a few pages over these last few months, it’s only rarely gotten to the level of crazy hyperactivity we see with the DAO, Lord’s Rest, and Star Wars threads. It’s supposed to be chill, first and foremost.
The reason I say all of this is because, well, I don’t understand why everyone is so eager to say all these things about the thread’s imminent and impending doom. The thread looks like it’s declining for three reasons:
Many of our old friends and founding members have since left or become much less active, and this place isn’t the same without them. Carsorino, Z, and Baalze come to mind. While I don’t blame them for having lives and other things to do, it feels sort of incomplete without them.
This abyssal encounter has moved extremely slowly, which has put many character arcs and plot advancements into a limbo. The Athene Rematch, North Pole exploration, and Spider Guild exploration are all waiting on its conclusion, and the end result is a messy storyline that disincentivizes people from joining because they have no idea where we are or what’s going on. It should be noted that the encounter is beginning to kick off now, which is good for both those participating and those sitting it out.
People keep saying it’s dead.
I have a longstanding policy of never inflating my threads or people’s perception of them; I have never bumped this thread or advertised it any more than what I thought was strictly necessary. I leave those jobs to others who think it’s still worth fighting for. If people were to stop posting here tomorrow, I wouldn’t fight it — it’d be a sad loss, but this was hardly my only project.
In summary: I don’t see people posting here less and less. Compared to other threads it might seem that way, but to compare yourself to others is to set yourself up for failure.
*That is all. Apologies for being late to the party, as I was at a concert.*
*Absolutely spot-on, Nothic! Reflecting on this thread's journey, it's incredible how it's evolved. From my humble beginnings when I joined back in February, to a whirlwind of new characters and plot twists, it's been quite the ride. Admittedly, life's thrown a few curveballs my way lately, making it tough to keep pace with posts. But fear not, the saga to save Xi has me hooked, and I'm determined to contribute whenever time allows. The camaraderie and creativity on display here are truly remarkable, and I find myself eagerly anticipating each new chapter. Here's to everyone's well-being, and to the countless adventures still to come. Until next time, folks! P.S. Could someone provide me a summary of what has happened in this encounter so I can get my bearings straight?*
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
I am Z, a silent architect weaving tales from the shadows.
Embrace the riddles, savor the essence, for in this narrative, I am the storyteller, the detective, the dreamer, the zephyr of tales untold.
In each verse, discover a journey where reality and dreams entwine, a dance of words that whispers the unsaid.
In the symphony of confusion, I simply remain, Z
Current Characters~ The Bloody Barnacle by Nothic2SeeHere_~ Flynn O'Sullivan | Buttons’ Best by Gradius2~ Durza Longtail
*Of course my first roll back is a Nat 20! As soon as I see that summary I will take my turn. If something happens, and I am unable to post tomorrow, skip my turn.*
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
I am Z, a silent architect weaving tales from the shadows.
Embrace the riddles, savor the essence, for in this narrative, I am the storyteller, the detective, the dreamer, the zephyr of tales untold.
In each verse, discover a journey where reality and dreams entwine, a dance of words that whispers the unsaid.
In the symphony of confusion, I simply remain, Z
Current Characters~ The Bloody Barnacle by Nothic2SeeHere_~ Flynn O'Sullivan | Buttons’ Best by Gradius2~ Durza Longtail
*Also, Dark's got a point. If we RP here, it won't die, simple as that. And saying it's dying means that it's more likely to die when it can be saved.*
I agree with Dark and Angler, but also have something else to add:
From what I can tell as this thread’s owner and second-most-frequent poster, the Bloody Barnacle has never been an especially quick-moving or prolific thread. That’s how it was designed, after all — I wanted the tavern to be a casual, story-focused experience akin to a campaign anyone can participate (or DM) in. You wanna explore something, or fight something, or try running an encounter to see how it goes? Then this was the ideal place.
In others words, this thread is far more of a Spider Guild or Universe Smörgåsbord than a Better Days Sanatorium or Vanderbilt Academy. And although we’ve acquired quite a few pages over these last few months, it’s only rarely gotten to the level of crazy hyperactivity we see with the DAO, Lord’s Rest, and Star Wars threads. It’s supposed to be chill, first and foremost.
The reason I say all of this is because, well, I don’t understand why everyone is so eager to say all these things about the thread’s imminent and impending doom. The thread looks like it’s declining for three reasons:
Many of our old friends and founding members have since left or become much less active, and this place isn’t the same without them. Carsorino, Z, and Baalze come to mind. While I don’t blame them for having lives and other things to do, it feels sort of incomplete without them.
This abyssal encounter has moved extremely slowly, which has put many character arcs and plot advancements into a limbo. The Athene Rematch, North Pole exploration, and Spider Guild exploration are all waiting on its conclusion, and the end result is a messy storyline that disincentivizes people from joining because they have no idea where we are or what’s going on. It should be noted that the encounter is beginning to kick off now, which is good for both those participating and those sitting it out.
People keep saying it’s dead.
I have a longstanding policy of never inflating my threads or people’s perception of them; I have never bumped this thread or advertised it any more than what I thought was strictly necessary. I leave those jobs to others who think it’s still worth fighting for. If people were to stop posting here tomorrow, I wouldn’t fight it — it’d be a sad loss, but this was hardly my only project.
In summary: I don’t see people posting here less and less. Compared to other threads it might seem that way, but to compare yourself to others is to set yourself up for failure.
*That is all. Apologies for being late to the party, as I was at a concert.*
*Absolutely spot-on, Nothic! Reflecting on this thread's journey, it's incredible how it's evolved. From my humble beginnings when I joined back in February, to a whirlwind of new characters and plot twists, it's been quite the ride. Admittedly, life's thrown a few curveballs my way lately, making it tough to keep pace with posts. But fear not, the saga to save Xi has me hooked, and I'm determined to contribute whenever time allows. The camaraderie and creativity on display here are truly remarkable, and I find myself eagerly anticipating each new chapter. Here's to everyone's well-being, and to the countless adventures still to come. Until next time, folks! P.S. Could someone provide me a summary of what has happened in this encounter so I can get my bearings straight?*
*If I remember correctly, you were last on when we were deciding to sneak or fight. We voted sneak, so Angler and Damian sneaked on board, but Angler rolled low and gave away their position, thus starting the encounter. Now everyone's getting on the boat.
The main enemies are a Glabrezu, a Maw Demon, and a Maw Demon that has died since combat started.*
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Hello! I am a perfectly sane gibberer. Hi! :D
Locations are dead, the Temple of Potassium has fallen but its ideals live on
*If I remember correctly, you were last on when we were deciding to sneak or fight. We voted sneak, so Angler and Damian sneaked on board, but Angler rolled low and gave away their position, thus starting the encounter. Now everyone's getting on the boat.
The main enemies are a Glabrezu, a Maw Demon, and a Maw Demon that has died since combat started.*
*Thanks Gibber!*
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
I am Z, a silent architect weaving tales from the shadows.
Embrace the riddles, savor the essence, for in this narrative, I am the storyteller, the detective, the dreamer, the zephyr of tales untold.
In each verse, discover a journey where reality and dreams entwine, a dance of words that whispers the unsaid.
In the symphony of confusion, I simply remain, Z
Current Characters~ The Bloody Barnacle by Nothic2SeeHere_~ Flynn O'Sullivan | Buttons’ Best by Gradius2~ Durza Longtail
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
While climbing around the hull of the ship, Flynn spots a porthole nearby. With a quick glance around to ensure no one has noticed him, he carefully retrieves a knife from his belt. Pressing the knife against the glass, Flynn applies just enough pressure to create a hairline fracture. With a deft flick of his wrist, he shatters the glass, muffling the sound with his other hand to prevent any noise from alerting the pirates inside. Once the glass is broken, he quickly pushes aside the shards and slips through the opening, disappearing into the darkness of the ship's interior. Stealth Check (16)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
I am Z, a silent architect weaving tales from the shadows.
Embrace the riddles, savor the essence, for in this narrative, I am the storyteller, the detective, the dreamer, the zephyr of tales untold.
In each verse, discover a journey where reality and dreams entwine, a dance of words that whispers the unsaid.
In the symphony of confusion, I simply remain, Z
Current Characters~ The Bloody Barnacle by Nothic2SeeHere_~ Flynn O'Sullivan | Buttons’ Best by Gradius2~ Durza Longtail
While climbing around the hull of the ship, Flynn spots a porthole nearby. With a quick glance around to ensure no one has noticed him, he carefully retrieves a knife from his belt. Pressing the knife against the glass, Flynn applies just enough pressure to create a hairline fracture. With a deft flick of his wrist, he shatters the glass, muffling the sound with his other hand to prevent any noise from alerting the pirates inside. Once the glass is broken, he quickly pushes aside the shards and slips through the opening, disappearing into the darkness of the ship's interior. Stealth Check (16)
There’s a shadow demon playing solitaire, but it doesn’t notice
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
I’m a decent DM and an above average rules lawyer
I have several complete Pokedexes | I may be stupid, but at least I’m not smart!
Stay Paranoid!! My Drummer given title is… Swift as the Dragon
There’s a shadow demon playing solitaire, but it doesn’t notice
Flynn silently observes the shadow demon from the shadows, his keen eyes tracking its movements as it plays solitaire. Taking advantage of its distraction, he carefully maneuvers around the room, keeping his steps light and his breathing steady. He edges closer to the demon and casts Phantasmal Force causing the demon to see a Radiant Idol appear and chase him. He must succeed in an intelligence saving throw with a DC of 17.
There’s a shadow demon playing solitaire, but it doesn’t notice
Flynn silently observes the shadow demon from the shadows, his keen eyes tracking its movements as it plays solitaire. Taking advantage of its distraction, he carefully maneuvers around the room, keeping his steps light and his breathing steady. He edges closer to the demon and casts Phantasmal Force causing the demon to see a Radiant Idol appear and chase him. He must succeed in an intelligence saving throw with a DC of 17.
3
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
I’m a decent DM and an above average rules lawyer
I have several complete Pokedexes | I may be stupid, but at least I’m not smart!
Stay Paranoid!! My Drummer given title is… Swift as the Dragon
*Absolutely spot-on, Nothic! Reflecting on this thread's journey, it's incredible how it's evolved. From my humble beginnings when I joined back in February, to a whirlwind of new characters and plot twists, it's been quite the ride. Admittedly, life's thrown a few curveballs my way lately, making it tough to keep pace with posts. But fear not, the saga to save Xi has me hooked, and I'm determined to contribute whenever time allows. The camaraderie and creativity on display here are truly remarkable, and I find myself eagerly anticipating each new chapter. Here's to everyone's well-being, and to the countless adventures still to come. Until next time, folks! P.S. Could someone provide me a summary of what has happened in this encounter so I can get my bearings straight?*
I am Z, a silent architect weaving tales from the shadows.
Embrace the riddles, savor the essence, for in this narrative, I am the storyteller, the detective, the dreamer, the zephyr of tales untold.
In each verse, discover a journey where reality and dreams entwine, a dance of words that whispers the unsaid.
In the symphony of confusion, I simply remain, Z
Current Characters~ The Bloody Barnacle by Nothic2SeeHere_~ Flynn O'Sullivan | Buttons’ Best by Gradius2~ Durza Longtail
Flynn's Initiative (23)
Flynn has been quietly crawling around the ship outside, waiting for the perfect moment to strike.
I am Z, a silent architect weaving tales from the shadows.
Embrace the riddles, savor the essence, for in this narrative, I am the storyteller, the detective, the dreamer, the zephyr of tales untold.
In each verse, discover a journey where reality and dreams entwine, a dance of words that whispers the unsaid.
In the symphony of confusion, I simply remain, Z
Current Characters~ The Bloody Barnacle by Nothic2SeeHere_~ Flynn O'Sullivan | Buttons’ Best by Gradius2~ Durza Longtail
*Of course my first roll back is a Nat 20! As soon as I see that summary I will take my turn. If something happens, and I am unable to post tomorrow, skip my turn.*
I am Z, a silent architect weaving tales from the shadows.
Embrace the riddles, savor the essence, for in this narrative, I am the storyteller, the detective, the dreamer, the zephyr of tales untold.
In each verse, discover a journey where reality and dreams entwine, a dance of words that whispers the unsaid.
In the symphony of confusion, I simply remain, Z
Current Characters~ The Bloody Barnacle by Nothic2SeeHere_~ Flynn O'Sullivan | Buttons’ Best by Gradius2~ Durza Longtail
*If I remember correctly, you were last on when we were deciding to sneak or fight. We voted sneak, so Angler and Damian sneaked on board, but Angler rolled low and gave away their position, thus starting the encounter. Now everyone's getting on the boat.
The main enemies are a Glabrezu, a Maw Demon, and a Maw Demon that has died since combat started.*
Hello! I am a perfectly sane gibberer. Hi! :D
Locations are dead, the Temple of Potassium has fallen but its ideals live on
A mysterious link of chain... (Extended signature). PRAISE JEFF THE EVIL ROOMBA! REALLY cool video.
One of the Warlock Patrons on the forums. Low, low price of your soul, your firstborn child and your liver!
Titles: The Echoing Story Spewer from Drummer, the Endless Maws from Isis, the Mad Murderer from PJ
*Gib it's your turn!*
What's life without a little war to spice things up? Anyone who worries about the little things should notice the bigger picture.
I am (As drummerboy stated) The master of many faces, The unseen puppeteer, The illumination, & The unnoticed influence.
Favorite games series: Dark Souls. Shirtless Solaire. Best best game series of all time: Paper Mario. Fight me about it.
Etiam im librum scribo
*Thanks Gibber!*
I am Z, a silent architect weaving tales from the shadows.
Embrace the riddles, savor the essence, for in this narrative, I am the storyteller, the detective, the dreamer, the zephyr of tales untold.
In each verse, discover a journey where reality and dreams entwine, a dance of words that whispers the unsaid.
In the symphony of confusion, I simply remain, Z
Current Characters~ The Bloody Barnacle by Nothic2SeeHere_~ Flynn O'Sullivan | Buttons’ Best by Gradius2~ Durza Longtail
(Hey @Nothic2SeeHere, Is everyone in this weird plane or are some there and some on the ship?)
Back Once more. Stand Proud Brothers, Till the Sky May Fall and Until the Sun Darks out. Let us ring the Drums of Liberation!
O' Great One, I pledge my Blade to you.
*There are still many people on the ship, including the Captain and most of his crew.*
Terra Lubridia archive:
The Bloody Barnacle | The Gut | The Athene Crusader | The Jewel of Atlantis
(Alrighty! Where is the location of the barnacle now? Still in New Zealand or?)
Back Once more. Stand Proud Brothers, Till the Sky May Fall and Until the Sun Darks out. Let us ring the Drums of Liberation!
O' Great One, I pledge my Blade to you.
*Off the coast of New Zealand, on the way to a hidden Spider Guild base*
Terra Lubridia archive:
The Bloody Barnacle | The Gut | The Athene Crusader | The Jewel of Atlantis
While climbing around the hull of the ship, Flynn spots a porthole nearby. With a quick glance around to ensure no one has noticed him, he carefully retrieves a knife from his belt. Pressing the knife against the glass, Flynn applies just enough pressure to create a hairline fracture. With a deft flick of his wrist, he shatters the glass, muffling the sound with his other hand to prevent any noise from alerting the pirates inside. Once the glass is broken, he quickly pushes aside the shards and slips through the opening, disappearing into the darkness of the ship's interior. Stealth Check (16)
I am Z, a silent architect weaving tales from the shadows.
Embrace the riddles, savor the essence, for in this narrative, I am the storyteller, the detective, the dreamer, the zephyr of tales untold.
In each verse, discover a journey where reality and dreams entwine, a dance of words that whispers the unsaid.
In the symphony of confusion, I simply remain, Z
Current Characters~ The Bloody Barnacle by Nothic2SeeHere_~ Flynn O'Sullivan | Buttons’ Best by Gradius2~ Durza Longtail
(Alright.)
Back Once more. Stand Proud Brothers, Till the Sky May Fall and Until the Sun Darks out. Let us ring the Drums of Liberation!
O' Great One, I pledge my Blade to you.
There’s a shadow demon playing solitaire, but it doesn’t notice
I’m a decent DM and an above average rules lawyer
I have several complete Pokedexes | I may be stupid, but at least I’m not smart!
Stay Paranoid!! My Drummer given title is… Swift as the Dragon
May the dice roll ever in your favor
*angler is up*
I’m a decent DM and an above average rules lawyer
I have several complete Pokedexes | I may be stupid, but at least I’m not smart!
Stay Paranoid!! My Drummer given title is… Swift as the Dragon
May the dice roll ever in your favor
Flynn silently observes the shadow demon from the shadows, his keen eyes tracking its movements as it plays solitaire. Taking advantage of its distraction, he carefully maneuvers around the room, keeping his steps light and his breathing steady. He edges closer to the demon and casts Phantasmal Force causing the demon to see a Radiant Idol appear and chase him. He must succeed in an intelligence saving throw with a DC of 17.
I am Z, a silent architect weaving tales from the shadows.
Embrace the riddles, savor the essence, for in this narrative, I am the storyteller, the detective, the dreamer, the zephyr of tales untold.
In each verse, discover a journey where reality and dreams entwine, a dance of words that whispers the unsaid.
In the symphony of confusion, I simply remain, Z
Current Characters~ The Bloody Barnacle by Nothic2SeeHere_~ Flynn O'Sullivan | Buttons’ Best by Gradius2~ Durza Longtail
Angler's bright light recharge: 2
Angler strikes with a short sword at the nearest maw demon.
23 to hit.
14 slashing damage.
Normiah strikes the same maw demon with the blunt end of a harpoon.
26 to hit.
8 bludgeoning damage, and on a hit the maw demon must make a DC 15 Strength save or be knocked prone.
Hello! I am a perfectly sane gibberer. Hi! :D
Locations are dead, the Temple of Potassium has fallen but its ideals live on
A mysterious link of chain... (Extended signature). PRAISE JEFF THE EVIL ROOMBA! REALLY cool video.
One of the Warlock Patrons on the forums. Low, low price of your soul, your firstborn child and your liver!
Titles: The Echoing Story Spewer from Drummer, the Endless Maws from Isis, the Mad Murderer from PJ
3
I’m a decent DM and an above average rules lawyer
I have several complete Pokedexes | I may be stupid, but at least I’m not smart!
Stay Paranoid!! My Drummer given title is… Swift as the Dragon
May the dice roll ever in your favor
The maw demon keels over, leaving only the Glabrezu.
I’m a decent DM and an above average rules lawyer
I have several complete Pokedexes | I may be stupid, but at least I’m not smart!
Stay Paranoid!! My Drummer given title is… Swift as the Dragon
May the dice roll ever in your favor
Damian casts 6th level thunder wave to stop the grapple "Told you I'm sorry.". (DC 18 Con)
Damage:36
What's life without a little war to spice things up? Anyone who worries about the little things should notice the bigger picture.
I am (As drummerboy stated) The master of many faces, The unseen puppeteer, The illumination, & The unnoticed influence.
Favorite games series: Dark Souls. Shirtless Solaire. Best best game series of all time: Paper Mario. Fight me about it.
Etiam im librum scribo
*it aint his turn chill*
I’m a decent DM and an above average rules lawyer
I have several complete Pokedexes | I may be stupid, but at least I’m not smart!
Stay Paranoid!! My Drummer given title is… Swift as the Dragon
May the dice roll ever in your favor