brandednerd

[brandednerd]

Didn’t realize this would post publicly. Clearly I know nothing about tumblr.

Anyway if you’re interested in commissioning me for any work you can email brandednerd@gmail.com that way everyone doesn’t have to see the details of our convo hahaha

Hey there. I know you made the box for the show. I love the art. Was wondering what it would take for me to commission one for use in our D&D stream. It wouldn't need to be as big as the one for the show, but maybe like an 8X8X2 square or something. You can reply here. Thanks, Zack

Hey Squigs! Well guess I can call you Zach here hahaha

Ron provided the box for his, but I did find it on amazon at one point. I forget how much it was at the moment though. If I need to provide the box I would need to look into the cost of that one or one that fits your description better. I have the skills to build one just not access to the proper tools, tiny LA apartment means no power saw.

Anyway in terms of the art creation and wood burn itself it can vary depending on size and level of detail. So to give you an estimate if you like the level of detail on Ron’s that would be around $200-$300. That includes drawing a custom design and the woodburn itself. The fewer details/tones the lower end and the more details/tones being higher.

Let me know if you’re still interested. Ron’s was a lot of fun so I would love to make more of these.

-BrandedNerd aka Caitlyn

[brandednerd]

Realized I never posted this here.

The Dungeon Run roll box woodburn commissioned by Ron Ogden aka Uggo. You can see it every week on The Dungeon Run LIVE Wednesdays at 6pm pt on Caffeine.tv

[brandednerd]

Hey there. I know you made the box for the show. I love the art. Was wondering what it would take for me to commission one for use in our D&D stream. It wouldn't need to be as big as the one for the show, but maybe like an 8X8X2 square or something. You can reply here. Thanks, Zack

Hey Squigs! Well guess I can call you Zach here hahaha

Ron provided the box for his, but I did find it on amazon at one point. I forget how much it was at the moment though. If I need to provide the box I would need to look into the cost of that one or one that fits your description better. I have the skills to build one just not access to the proper tools, tiny LA apartment means no power saw.

Anyway in terms of the art creation and wood burn itself it can vary depending on size and level of detail. So to give you an estimate if you like the level of detail on Ron’s that would be around $200-$300. That includes drawing a custom design and the woodburn itself. The fewer details/tones the lower end and the more details/tones being higher.

Let me know if you’re still interested. Ron’s was a lot of fun so I would love to make more of these.

-BrandedNerd aka Caitlyn

[brandednerd]

It’s been a while since I posted on here mainly because I’ve been dealing with a lot of things that have drained me emotionally and physically. Money has been tight ever since I got let go back in May last year and I’ve now thoroughly depleted all of my safety nets. On top of that my dog Remy recently gave me a bit of a scare and I had to take her to an emergency vet in the middle of the night. She’s going to be fine but it wasn’t cheap. I’m not great at asking for help when I need it but if anyone finds themselves able I would appreciate any help you can give. And even if you can’t give a reblog is always appreciated because even if you can’t maybe you know someone who can. Thank you and I promise to try and start posting on here more. ❤️

[brandednerd]

This is a combat mod for the D&D 5e system. It gives more significance to initiative rolls and encourages players to collaborate in battle. It’s not recommended for new players but if you’re fairly experienced with the current system please give it a read and let me know what you think.

[brandednerd]

Blood Bonds 7

Sorry it’s been so long been busy with a trip home and work, but here is the latest Blood Bonds post. 

INT. RAYHAN PALACE, NALINA'S ROOM - MOMENTS LATER

Nalina Shamoon sits on the window sil of her room with a book in her lap. However, her attention is focused out the window past the city below to the very distant mountains on the surface of Asha. She looks very similar to how she did 4 years ago. It's clear she's older but her appearance is still at odds in the same way it was back then. She's just woken up and is still in her nightgown. Her hair is down, wild with curls and waves that move gently in the breeze from the open window. 

A chime rings from Nalina's DIA on the table beside her bed. She walks over and picks it up hitting a button on the side as she does. A light projects from the small disc up and an image of Remus Hobai's face appears. Even though we can only see his face he seems to be rushing somewhere. Nalina smiles lightly at his image as he addresses him.

NALINA: Good morning Remus.

REMUS: Sorry Liny but Aidan is on his way to your room.

Nalina looks worried at this and starts rushing around the room. She opens up the bottom drawer of her dresser and pulls out some clothes that don't look very princess like. She starts throwing them on as they continue to talk.

NALINA: What? You said you would run interference for me till after the wedding.

REMUS: I'm trying but he's a lot faster than me these days. We don't exactly have the same training regimen anymore.

NALINA: Oh right not since this whole thing happened right?

Nalina holds up her left arm covered with the markings she got 4 years ago.

NALINA: You going to finally tell me what they are now that I'm leaving?

REMUS: (sighs) You know I can't do that.

NALINA: Since when has that ever stopped you?

REMUS: I promised Aidan.

NALINA: Oh like how you promised me to keep Aidan busy all day?

REMUS: You know sometimes being an advisor to both of you really sucks. 

NALINA: We like to keep things interesting for you.

Nalina has gotten dressed by this point. She has a pair of pants on that are a little too big for her so she's rolled up the cuffs and tightened it with a belt. She's also wearing a long sleeve flowing shirt that kind of looks like a dress she cut short. She sits down on the window sil and puts on a pair of boots. 

There is a light sound of foot steps in the hallway and Nalina looks up sharply.

NALINA: Oh no I think that's him. Got to go Remus.

Nalina hits the same button on the side of her DIA and Remus' image disappears. She puts the device in her back pocket and quickly moves to the open window. She places the palm of her hand on the stone frame of the window and concentrates. A glowing circle appears and Nalina draws an arcane symbol with her finger in it. The second she finishes the symbol she grabs a bag, shoves the book from earlier into it, and throws it over her shoulder. As she climbs up and out the window we see that some of the stones on the exterior wall have recessed forming a ladder of sorts for her to climb up. 

Nalina makes it outside just as there is a knock on the door of her room. 

AIDAN (V.O.): Nalina! 

The door opens and Aidan rushes in. He looks around the room but there is no sign of Nalina. 

AIDAN: Nalina?!

Remus comes into the room now a little out of breath. Aidan looks back at him.

AIDAN: Where is she?

Remus shakes his head.

REMUS: Probably getting ready. I don't know.

Aidan sighs and pushes past Remus out the door. Remus looks around the room before heading out behind him and closing the door.

EXT. RAYHAN PALACE - CONTINUOUS

Nalina is holding onto the edges of the holes made by the recessed stones in the wall. She climbs up to the roof of the palace above her room. It's angled but not too steep. She moves up a little ways away from the edge and sits down. The wind is stronger up here but not in danger of blowing her off the roof. Nalina smiles softly as she returns to gazing out past the city to the land below that Rayhan left so many years ago. A place that will soon be her new home.

[brandednerd]

My interpretation of Mollymauk's swords and tarot cards. I've created this as line art intentionally so others can color it if they wish. All I ask is that you please tag me so I can see it <3 Thank you!

So here is the truth about why this isn't colored. I was struggling with it and I got the idea to just post the line art and let other Critters color it however they wanted. Which led me to a larger thought: wouldn't a Critical Role coloring book be amazing?! Every day I see all this amazing Critical Role art and I wish I could feel more involved in that side of the Critter community. However, I'm more of a designer than an artist so my skills are limited but an adult style coloring book would help feed my cravings. 

If you agree this is something that you'd like please reblog. If it gets enough attention maybe we can get the cast on board and make it happen for real!

[brandednerd]

Blood Bonds 6

Another Blood Bonds update! Here is the link to the first post if you’re new to the series.

INT. RAYHAN PALACE, HALLWAYS - CONTINUOUS

Aidan makes his way through the halls quickly. He knows that if his father addressed the people this morning he would have done it from the throne room so he decides to start his search for him there. As he reaches the lower floors of the palace more and more staff are rushing around in the halls. Some of them are carrying flowers or linens and others are polishing statues and dusting paintings. Clearly the king wants to put on a good show for the visitors. A few steps behind Aidan is Remus still trying to talk Aidan out of this.

REMUS: Aidan please. Seriously this is only going to make things worse. You know how the king is, once his mind is made up that's it. Aidan. 

Remus makes frustrated sounds as Aidan pays him no attention and picks up his pace.

REMUS: Ok fine. Let's say hypothetically you can convince him. We still have an envoy from Murin on their way here. What are you going to tell them? Huh?

Aidan reaches one of the side entrances to the throne room. The doors are already open and he can see his father inside directing the staff on how he wants everything set up for the ceremony.

INT. RAYHAN PALACE, THRONE ROOM - CONTINUOUS

The palace throne room is by far the most extravagant room in the city. It is extremely large with huge vaulted ceilings. The room is almost a perfect circle except for a small portion where the wall straightens out. This is where the elaborate and ornate throne sits. The floor is raised here in a half circle shape with 3 steps all the way around. 

Directly in front of the throne is the main entrance and there are 2 side entrances on the left and right. All of them have large double doors with decorative carvings throughout. The only difference between the main entrance and the side ones is that the main one is slightly larger both in height and width.

Bustling around the room are over a dozen palace staff. They're cleaning, putting up decorations, and making all the preparations for a traditional Rayhanian wedding. At the center of the room is King Waqar Shamoon with Chief Advisor Virgil Hobai. King Shamoon shouts to a group of the staff who are currently draping fabric from the ceiling and walls.

KING SHAMOON: No, no, no! I said I wanted the blue and gold of Rayhan on the left and the white and silver of Murin on the right. Then they meet in the center and intertwine. 

He turns to Virgil, who is taking notes in a book. Not about the decorations but about something else him and the King are discussing. Neither of them seem to notice Prince Aidan storming in or Remus following behind him.

KING SHAMOON: Now Virgil, once the broadcast cuts I will need you to take care of getting the Kondratenkos to the briefing room. It is very important they do not find out any of the details of our situation until after the ceremony.

AIDAN: Father! I need to talk with you now!

The room gets quiet as the staff pause from their work to see what the prince could be yelling about. Aidan ignores them as he walks right up to his father with Remus a couple steps behind. Advisor Hobai steps forward in front of the King to address them.

CHIEF ADVISOR HOBAI: Prince Aidan! You will remember your place and lower your voice. Or has Remus failed to teach you another lesson. 

Virgil glares at his son as Remus stops beside Aidan. King Shamoon moves forward beside his advisor. First he addresses his staff.

KING SHAMOON: (friendly) Now, now everyone back to work! We are limited on time!

Then he turns to address Aidan. The king remains calm despite his son's outburst, but the anger can still be heard in his tone.

KING SHAMOON: Aidan, in spite of the disrespectful way you came in here I will listen to what you have to say. However, if this is about what I am assuming it is about, after this conversation I do not want to hear another word out of you about it, especially not after our guests arrive. Is that clear?

Aidan nods.

KING SHAMOON: Good. Now what is it you want to say to me?

AIDAN: This wedding is a terrible idea. An arranged marriage? You can't really be serious. Rayhan hasn't had one in decades. What are you planning the same thing for me? Going to find me a nice wife?

KING SHAMOON: Aidan we have discussed this before. I have no issues with who you share your bed with and I would never ask you to pretend to be something you are not. 

AIDAN: But forcing Nalina to marry a stranger is ok? We've never even met these people and you've already promised to send Nalina away with them? How could you do that to her? You've always treated her coldly but this is beyond anything you've done before.

King Shamoon glances over to Remus, who looks worried.

KING SHAMOON: It seems Remus has neglected to inform you of the details regarding how this wedding came about, so allow me to enlighten you. I arranged this wedding after Remus came to me with a request from Nalina asking to leave Rayhan. 

Aidan looks at Remus sharply and then back to his father.

AIDAN: What? That's ridiculous why would Nalina want to leave?

KING SHAMOON: Nalina is aware of how the citizens feel about her and...

AIDAN: There may be a few, but...

KING SHAMOON: Aidan, if you are going to be king one day you need to learn to look at things for what they really are, even if you do not like them. The people accepted Nalina at first, but that was because your mother and I had such a difficult time conceiving. With the previous miscarriages they did not question her being an exception to the second child law. However, in her nineteen years of living here I have sent away dozens of other children and with each one more and more people start to question that decision. 

Suddenly the ground begins to rumble slightly. It's a minor earthquake but many of the staff look worried. King Shamoon is clearly frustrated and worried about the quake. He glances to his advisor who nods and exits the throne room.

KING SHAMOON : (quietly) Let us hope that does not happen while our guests are here.

King Shamoon smiles at the staff and gestures for them to get back to work. Then he returns to his conversation with Aidan.

KING SHAMOON: As for the marriage part, well that was also Nalina's idea. She understands the difficult position I am in regarding her. She has been here too long for me to just banish her now, but a marriage allows for a perfectly reasonable explanation for her departure. I agreed with her reasoning and decided to look into it and the first city I inquired at happened to be a perfect fit. 

AIDAN: The first city? Don't you think that's a little bold? What if there is a better fit somewhere else?

KING SHAMOON: Murin is the closest city to us. Just a few hours on an airship away. Which is perfect for helping us with that other issue we need to prepare for.

The King says this last sentence much quieter than the rest to make sure no one outside of the four of them can hear it. Then he returns to a normal volume as he continues.

KING SHAMOON: Now if there is nothing else I need to get back to preparations and you need to get dressed in something more proper for welcoming our guests.

AIDAN: Wait, father, please...

The King cuts Aidan off by grabbing his shoulder and pulling him close. He speaks quietly but much more sternly now.

KING SHAMOON: Listen. I am your father but I am also your king and kings do not have to explain themselves the way I just did for you. I allowed it as a learning experience in the hope that you will begin to realize the proper way to rule this city but you will not disrespect or question my decisions again. Is that clear?

AIDAN: Of course. Sorry, my king. King Shamoon loosens his grip and pats Aidan on the back. He moves away as he continues to give directions to the staff. Chief Advisor Hobai follows behind the King.

KING SHAMOON: Oh yes! Much better! 

Remus moves next to Aidan.

REMUS: I'm sorry. I...

Aidan doesn't look at Remus but stares at his father across the room.

AIDAN: Why didn't you tell me?

REMUS: Nalina asked me not to.

Aidan looks at Remus hurt now.

AIDAN: I thought you were my advisor? Don't you think I need to know something like this? 

REMUS: I'm Nalina's advisor too.

AIDAN: Just how long ago was this conversation with Nalina?

REMUS: It wasn't one conversation. 

AIDAN: How long?

REMUS: A few weeks.

AIDAN: Weeks?

REMUS: I was trying to talk her out of it. The only reason I gave in and went to the King was because she threatened to do it herself if I didn't. And I think we both know how badly that would have gone for all of us.

AIDAN: If you came to me I could have talked to her.

REMUS: Hey I know I don't always act like I take my job seriously but I have a responsibility to Nalina just like I do for you. And I've kept plenty of things from Nalina at your request so let's think about some of those secrets before you chop my head off about this one.

Aidan stares at Remus for a moment before sighing and heading out of the throne room.

[brandednerd]

Please reblog if you think that “they/them/theirs” is a valid set of pronouns.

[brandednerd]

Blood Bonds 5

Another installment of Blood Bonds for you.

EXT. RAYHAN PALACE, AIDAN'S ROOM - CONTINUOUS

Aidan walks up to the window of his bedroom. Physically he looks different than he did 4 years ago. He's been training a lot more and he has the muscles to show for it. However, he still has the same sweet demeanor and it's clear he just woke up by his tussled hair as he pulls on a long sleeve button up shirt. 

Aidan starts to button up the shirt as he looks out the window and notices all of the staff bustling about more than usual. As he does we see Remus slowly open the door behind him and poke his head in to see what state Aidan is in. Upon seeing he seems to be in a good mood he decides it's safe to make his usual entrance.

Remus looks pretty much the same as he did 4 years ago. While Aidan has gotten more serious with his training it seems Remus has not. 

Remus throws open the door to Aidan's bedroom with enough force that it swings back and closes after he's inside. He makes a beeline for the bed, and immediately jumps in landing in a comfortable laid back position. He crosses his legs and puts his hands behind his head as he looks over at Aidan and smiles. 

Aidan turns around upon hearing the door slam open and sees Remus making himself comfortable in his bed as usual. Aidan smirks.

AiDAN: Morning. You're later than usual. Everything alright? Another lecture from your father?

REMUS: (jokingly) Yeah it was about the importance of being on time and it made me late getting here.

Remus snickers at his own joke as Aidan smiles and leans up against the wall next to the window. He points back at the window as he crosses his arms. 

AIDAN: Hey do you know why everyone is running around this mor-ning... 

Aidan trails off at the end as he notices Remus' outfit. He looks confused by it. 

AIDAN: What's with the formal attire? You can't train in that.

Remus looks at his clothes and starts to look uncomfortable.

REMUS: Um... there's no training today...

Remus stands up as he speaks. He doesn't seem to want to look Aidan in the eye. He moves around the room a little fidgety. Aidan watches him and laughs a little.

AIDAN: Is there really no training or do you just not want there to be?

REMUS: Nope really no training.

Aidan's starting to look concerned by Remus' strange behavior. 

AIDAN: Why?

Remus sighs and kind of looks like he's in pain.

REMUS: Ok that confirms it. You didn't watch your fathers morning address did you?

AIDAN: You mean those "speeches" filled with my father's arrogance and lies. No I didn't watch it. Why? What's he going on about now?

Remus takes a deep breath.

REMUS: Oh I really wish I didn't have to be the one to tell you this. 

AIDAN: Remus, just tell me.

REMUS: Ok just please don't kill the messenger, okay? Well remember how the king announced he was going to arrange a marriage for Nalina?

AIDAN: You mean yesterday? Yeah I was planning on talking to him about that ridiculous idea today. 

REMUS: Ok well it might be too late for that cause he found someone already.

AIDAN: Wait, what?

REMUS: And they're arriving today.

Aidan starts rushing around the room grabbing things to finish getting dressed.

AIDAN: He just announced he was looking yesterday! How could he have found someone already?!

REMUS: Apparently he already had this lined up when he mentioned it at yesterday's briefing.

AIDAN: I have to talk to him. Get him to change his mind.

Aidan is pretty much ready and makes his way towards the door.

REMUS: Aidan wait!

Aidan pauses to look back at Remus.

REMUS: You're not going to talk him out of this. They're not just arriving today the wedding is happening tonight. 

AIDAN: Yeah well I have to try. Now are you going to come with to help me or are you just going to let him send Nalina away.

Aidan pauses for an answer but Remus just stares at him not knowing how to respond. Aidan looks disappointed at him and then walks out the door.

REMUS: Aidan! It's more complicated than...

Remus runs his fingers through his hair in frustration.

REMUS: Damn it.

Remus heads out the door after Aidan.

[brandednerd]

Blood Bonds 4

It has been a while since I worked on this but I finally have another scene to post. We’re doing a time jump to 4 years later. In my head the last scene would have ended with the big movie title treatment and then transitioned into this next scene. Hope you all enjoy and if you’re new to Blood Bonds here is a link to the first post.

EXT. RAYHAN - 4 YEARS LATER, MORNING

Through the clouds what appears to be a mountain emerges into view. However, this mountain is upside down. As we get closer and more of it is revealed, it becomes clear that a chunk of earth is floating in the sky. On that hunk of rock a city stands. Some uplifting patriotic music plays and we hear King Shamoon addressing his people.

KING SHAMOON: Citizens of Rayhan, today will forever go down in our history as a turning point for our fair city. I more than any of the kings that came before me have worked to improve Rayhan for the greater.

As we get closer we recognize the city now as Rayhan but we're seeing a whole new side of it. The city seems to be bursting at the seams. There appears to be construction happening around the outer edge as if they're attempting to expand the city's footprint. 

KING SHAMOON: From the expansion project that is currently underway, to the advanced turret blasters lining the wall around the city.

We pan over the outer protective wall lined with the turrets King Shamoon mentions. They are impressive and the technology stands out against the stone wall it sits on. The guns aren't currently manned but guards do patrol on top of the wall. However, despite the walls height it is smaller than the buildings within, especially the grand palace at the center. 

KING SHAMOON: All of those will pale in comparison to the event that will take place later this evening. I want all of you to remember where you are right now because this is the moment when all of our lives change forever.

As we move into the city it is clear they have run out of space. There are no trees or grass or open areas as these luxuries were given up to accommodate the population growth. The pathways are too narrow to accommodate any type of vehicle so walking is the only form of travel. All of the buildings have been added to over the years, and with each addition function became more important than form. In fact the original layout of the city can still be seen, as its stone decorative flowing design stands out in stark contrast from the metal sharp ridged functional additions.

KING SHAMOON: For too long we have ignored the surface of Asha. It is true there is no place safer than Rayhan. However, we must be willing to learn from those who have survived such a difficult life compared to our own. That way we can discover new ways to make things even better for us here.

Even though it is early we do see citizens on the streets. All of them have stopped to stare at the King's message, which is being broadcast everywhere. Holographic projection screens are placed in the larger openings where people gather to watch, and those not near one are holding small flat circular devices called DIAs that project the same image of the King sitting on his throne as he speaks. These devices are capable of many things, one of which being communication.

KING SHAMOON: For too long we have ignored the surface of Asha. It is true there is no place safer than Rayhan. However, we must be willing to learn from those who have survived such a difficult life compared to our own. 

As the King's speech continues we see even more of the city and it's people. Learning more about how they've survived for so long avoiding the surface. There are a lot of shops filled with space-saving gadgets to help organize the very packed homes. They've created unique stacked farms where they use magic to generate sunlight for each level. They have water wells to catch rain water. The city is filled with everything they need so there is never a need to leave.

KING SHAMOON: That way we can discover new ways to make things even better for us here. For this reason, we shall open our borders, temporarily, to welcome guests from Murin, our neighbor to the north.

The King emphasizes the word "temporarily" as much as he can, but still at the mention of this all of the citizens look afraid and some angry.

KING SHAMOON: They will be arriving by airship this afternoon, and since this is unprecedented in all of the years Rayhan has been aloft I wanted to reassure all of you there is nothing to fear. They are here so that I may speak with their ruler to organize an alliance, strengthened and symbolized by the marriage of their Prince Yaromir Kondratenko to Princess Nalina Shamoon. 

The King's words calm some of the people but at the mention of Nalina they seem more concerned again.

KING SHAMOON: The ceremony will take place this evening and be broadcast so that all of you can witness this tremendous event in Rayhan's history. 

As the King begins to wrap up his speech we've reached the outer wall of the palace. Before we move through the gate guarded by several Royal Palace Guards we can see people bustling about inside. The palace is alive with activity to prepare for the guests and the wedding this evening. 

We move through the courtyard that looks almost exactly the same as it did 4 years prior and continue toward the main doors but instead of heading through them we go up and spin around the castle, seeing all of the detail and beauty of this grand structure. Every inch of this building is in perfect condition and unlike the rest of the city it doesn't have the drastic changes in design from expanding over the years. Either this palace is as exactly as it was when the city lifted off the surface or any additions were done with great care to keep the design consistent.

KING SHAMOON: Tonight we will celebrate the union of our two cities and then tomorrow we will say goodbye to Princess Nalina as she heads to Murin with her new husband. May the city in the sky shine bright this day.

The last line is clearly the King's usual sign off for all of his speeches. We hear the same intro music from the beginning of the broadcast but it quickly fades out as we close in on one of the windows near the top of the palace.

[brandednerd]

This is the largest piece I’ve ever burned. It’s 18”x18” and too about 4 days to finish including staining it. Pre and post stain photos so you can see the difference a good stain can make. I’m really proud of this one and I have to say to whoever made the Critical Role logo you did a good job. Had a lot of time to appreciate it and see the design details as I worked on this.

[brandednerd]

Here is the complete set of Critical Role wood burn fan art. The top 2 photos show pre and post stain. They’re all 4in x 4in and I added a cork backing to all of them so they function as coasters.

[brandednerd]

The final Critical Role wood burn is done. This is for Beau featuring a few of her favorite things. Now that all the designs are done finishes are next. I’ll post a photo of the full set after staining and sealing.

[brandednerd]

Mollymauk’s wood burn is complete! This is actually simplified from the initial design I had. Featuring tarot cards and my take on his amazing and elaborate scimitars

[brandednerd]

It was late and I miscounted this is actually 8 of 10 so only 2 more left. Hoping to finish those up tonight while watching Critical Role love again woot

And this makes 7 of 10 done for my Critical Role designs.

This one is for Fjord featuring that creepy ass eye with some barnacles and sea water dripping on his falchion.

Still need to clean up a few pencil lines but the initial burn is done. I have plans to stain and seal these so I’ll post the full set together once that’s done.

[brandednerd]

Soooooo excited for this!!!!!!

Pandora’s Legacy in PREVIEWS!! 

You can now go to your local comic shops and Pre-order it! Previews link HERE.