#pinterest deep sea discovery

[bigforeheadbaddie]

[psyche-pulse]

Eureka Mind: A Journey into Psychology

I am a second-year psychology major who finds myself at a crossroads between my academic interests and the life events that have brought me here.

I was always the one with a million questions as a youngster about why people act, feel, and think the way they do. I clearly remember watching my family and friends, attempting to understand the hidden feelings that lay underneath their smiles or the causes of their sporadic outbursts. I had no idea that these harmless observations would spark my intense curiosity about how the human psyche functions.

Ah, let me take you back to that crucial day when I realised psychology was my passion, the day that changed my life forever. In the eleventh grade, our class had planned a special activity: a showing of "A Beautiful Mind."

(Photo credits to scoopwhoop.com)

I was completely entranced by the nuanced depiction of the complexity of the human mind as I sat there, enthralled by the captivating tale of John Nash, a great mathematician fighting schizophrenia. The film showed Nash's mind's genius as well as the intense difficulties he had while battling his mental illness.

I felt like a stormy sea of emotions in that pitch-black classroom. Not only was the heartbreaking narrative on the screen enough to bring tears to my eyes, but I also came to the realisation that psychology provided a fundamental insight of what it is to be a human—the beauty and the hardships, the brilliance and the fragility.

I was still feeling the effects of the movie days after it had ended. My teacher and I got into debates about how mental illness is portrayed, the complexity of the mind, and the stigma that frequently surrounds mental health. I became fascinated by the idea of learning more and discovering the science underlying our ideas and feelings.

I immediately recognised psychology as my field of study. It wasn't simply a decision about a job; it was also a deeply personal voyage of self-discovery and a resolve to improve the lives of others. I wanted to learn more about the views of famous philosophers like Freud, Jung, and Skinner, as well as the underpinnings of human behaviour.

I came to know and understand that psychology was more than simply a topic as I studied more about it; psychology was a lens through which I could see the world with empathy and understanding. By bridging the gap between what we perceive on the surface and what lurks underneath, it gave me a tool to solve the puzzles of human behaviour.

In my own life, psychology emerged as a guiding light at dark moments. It assisted me in overcoming obstacles, comprehending my feelings, and developing deep relationships with others. Throughout my academic career, I gained an understanding of how important it is for each of us to have good mental health since it is a crucial component of who we are.

I write a blog on this fascinating subject. It's more than simply a blog; it serves as evidence of my passion for psychology and the long-lasting influence one movie had on my life. Through my thoughts and experiences, I wish to inspire others with the same sense of wonder and compassion, inspiring them to delve into the mysteries of the human mind and appreciate the magnificence of our common humanity.

Welcome to my psychological universe, a place full of wonder, empathy, and development. Together, let's set out on this revolutionary adventure to learn more about the mind's mysteries, one tale at a time.

Few of the quote from the movie which I totally adore.

(Pictures credit to Pinterest)

[darkgazer]

[ — I N T R O ]

hello, this is my first ever writeblr intro. i’m mako. 24. she/they. in pharmacy school. also work part-time. artist. writer. but never both at the same time because i’m pea-brained and i can only focus on one thing at a time. yet somehow i still have hundreds of unfinished wips in the backburner. i mostly write dark fiction in the realm of fantasy and sci-fi and i’m extremely fascinated by the morbid

this blog is mainly to keep track of my wips and serve as a vault of some sort for writing inspo, references, graphics, etc.

i will prob change blog aesthetic a lot lol

[ — P R O J E C T S ]

Sea-strung Pearls : a lonely mermaid who collects treasures and carcasses. an underwater kingdom. hideous and scary deep sea creatures. a colossal ancient sea monster. said monster guides a mermaid down a path of brutality and self-destruction. sailors & shipwrecks. man-eating sirens. maritime folklore. exploration of loneliness from isolation. transformation into a monster. prey becoming predator. you become what you consume (dark fantasy, horror, nano wip)

Carnivore Mouth : a crafty-minded street urchin & a sharp-tongued troublemaker. set in a church orphanage & gothic cathedral. children being lambs for the slaughter. organ harvesting. machiavellianism & duality of human nature. dangerous religious fanaticism. dark rituals and ceremonies worshipping a false god. vampires but not really. forced martyrdom. friendship turns into obsessive codependency. two young orphans navigating diabolical machinations in a holy sanctuary (gothic horror)

A Garden of Fruiting Bodies : 12 dancing princesses retelling. unwavering sisterhood. crazed adoration for each other. each princess has a secret. maidens by day vixens by night. mystical dreams manifested from dark desires. maze gardens & underground labyrinths. nightly adventures. sentient vines trapping people. lakes luring people in. craving the forbidden. repression leading to rebellion and ending in self-discovery (dark fantasy, fairytale)

/ more to be added . . .

[  — L I N K S ]

socials : pinterest

tags : quotes / photography / artworks 

[ edited 10/25/22 ]

[ofswannsx]

THE MCQUEENS / SWANN.

ELIZABETH SWANN

after her divorce from monty, elizabeth went on a journey of self discovery. she had one more kid in that time. athena, the last piece of monty she was given. she traveled the seas for two years living her full pirate dream. once she had gotten the adventure out of her system she came back and enrolled at walt university where she earned a degree marine biology with a minor in archeology. she now works at the university labs in their marine biology research program. elizabeth is still wild and free at heart, an unstoppable force and still badass. her kids love to retell the tale of how she slayed literal monsters. elizabeth had remained close with montgomery. they share two kids together and a lot of love. she shares tea with fran and sally on tuesday as part of the married to monty mcqueen club. she’s content with life and happy with the woman she blossomed into. 

CASPIAN MCQUEEN

an absolute terror, a mini monty and my favorite little white streak loveable idiot. caspian mcqueen the man, the myth, the legend is a troubled kid to his core. not because of his parents divorce or middle kid syndrome, no it’s because of his powers. living with the ability to speak to ghosts takes a toll on a kid. he’s always felt like an outcast of sorts because of his abilities. like most things in his life, when things got hard he shut down or went awol. after running off and getting married to hallie it caused a bit of drama in his family. he’s trying to be better at facing his problems head on instead of avoiding them. by doing so he’s been able to unlock more of his powers. it’s scary to know how deep it goes but he’s tired of running. he put the pirate life away for now and is focused on a music career. he’s a bassist for the band paradise on the horizon and it’s actually a healthier outlet than leaving months on end without a word.

abilities: can speak and see ghosts. think klaus hargreeves from the umbrella academy. 

fun links:  guide to his powers. pinterest. playlist. connections guide. 

wanted connections: guitarist, keys and lead singer for paradise on the horizon !! former friends ( bitter ? wants to reconnect ? ), therapist’s office waiting room buddy, bandmates

ATHENA MCQUEEN

while caspian took after their father, athena was more so their mother  ( though, that mcqueen stubbornness surely shines through )  she was a surprise to her parents who were in the middle of divorcing when she came about. feisty, quick-witted and sass to last for days, athena’s a force to be reckoned with. like her mother and brother she was drawn to the water. she did swimming in high school. she was great at it. a little too good. turns out she was a siren. who knew ? she’s been learning to control her powers better and navigate this world. she’s trying to make a name for herself outside her famous parents and giant family. 

abilities: siren. has not lured anyone to their death yet. 

fun links: her pinterest. connections guide. 

wanted connections: friends, give her some friend please. she’s newly single so open to romantic connections if the vibes right, exes, one night stands, rival ( she’s competitive as hell ), enemies

[ssa-montgomery]

Word Prompt

Below is a list of words that I found on Pinterest that have some meanings that I thought would work perfectly for prompts.

To make a request just send me a word (or two) through a message or an ask and tell me what character/ship you want! I do character x character and character x reader for Supernatural, Merlin, Shadowhunters and Hannibal! You can give extra detail about what you want if you’d like :) I do crack, fluff, angst and smut.

If you’ve already requested something off me don’t worry they’re on the way!

Busticate - To break into pieces.

Drapetomania - An overwhelming urge to run away.

Kairosclerosis - The moment you realize you’re happy.

Apodyopsis - The act of mentally undressing someone.

Whelve - To bury something deep; to hide.

Brontide - The low rumble of distant thunder.

Decathect - To withdraw one’s feelings of attachment as in anticipation of a future loss.

Lypophrenia - A vague feeling of sadness seemingly without any cause.

Saudade - A desire to be near someone or something distant.

Ecophobia - A fear or dislike of one’s home.

Preta - A wandering or disturbed ghost.

Wonderwall - Someone who you find yourself thinking about all the time, the person who you’re completely infatuated with.

Athazagoraphobia - The fear of forgetting, being forgotten or ignored, or being replaced.

Nepenthe - Something that makes you forget grief or suffering.

Merak -Pursuit of small, daily pleasures that all add up to a great sense of happiness and fulfillment.

Dystychiphobia - The fear of hurting someone.

Anam Cara - A person with whom you can share your deepest thoughts, feelings, and dreams with your soul friend.

Anagapesis - No longer feeling any affection for someone you once loved.

Sciamachy - A battle against imaginary enemies; fighting your shadow.

Wabi-sabi (not wasabi) - The discovery of beauty in imperfection; the acceptance of the cycle of life and death.

Thalassophile - A lover of the sea.

Latibule - A hiding place; a place of safety and comfort.

Fernweh - An ache for distant places; the craving for travel.

Eccedentesiast - Someone who hides pain behind a smile.

Mizpah - The deep emotional bond between people, especially those separated by distance or death.

Absquatulate - To leave without saying goodbye.

Zugzwang - A situation where every possible move or decision is a bad one, or one that will result in damage or loss.

Cafune - Running your fingers through your lover's hair.

Basorexia - The overwhelming desire to kiss.

Thanatophobia - The phobia of losing someone you love.

Alexithymia - The inability to express your feelings.

Naceur - One who stays up late.

Cheiloproclitic - Being attracted to a person’s lips or mouth.

Forelsket - The euphoria you experience when you are first falling in love.

Oculoplania - Letting your eyes wander in order to assess someone’s “charms”

Redamancy - The act of loving the one who loves you; a love returned in full.

Clinomania - Excessive desire to stay in bed.

Agathokakological - Composed of both good and evil.

Serendipity - Finding something good without looking for it.

Magoa - A heartbreaking feeling that leaves long-lasting traces, visible in gestures and facial expressions.

Gymnophoria - The distinct feeling that someone somewhere is mentally undressing you.

Tacenda - Things better left unsaid; matters to be passed over in silence.

Torpe - A person who is desperately in love with someone but cannot admit their feelings or approach them.

Gumusserui - Moonlight shining on water.

Querencia - A place from which one’s strength is drawn where one feels at home; the place where you are your most authentic self.

Dozakh - A place of torment one believes they are in when separated from their lover; hell.

Saudade - A nostalgic longing to be near again to something or someone that is distant or that has been loved and then lost; “the love that remains.”

La douleur exquise - The heart-wrenching pain of wanting the affection of someone unattainable.

Retrouvaille - The joy of meeting or finding some again after a long separation; rediscovery.

Kilig - The rush or the inexplicable joy one feels after seeing or experiencing something romantic.

Induratize - To make one’s own heart hardened or resistant to someone’s pleas or advances or to the idea of love.

Cingulomania - A strong desire to hold a person in your arms.

Razbliuto - The sentimental feeling you have about someone you once loved but no longer do.

Mamihlapinatapai - A look shared by two people each wishing that the other would initiate something they both desire but which neither wants to begin.

Croodle - To cuddle or nestle together as from fear or cold.

Sphallolalia - Flirtatious talk that leads nowhere.

[nevoisland]

Top 10 Deep Sea Mysteries

Top 10 Deep Sea MysteriesTop 10 Deep Sea Mysteries.There are too many unexplained deep sea mysteries.71% of the planet’s surface is covered in water. That’s a whole lot of space for secrets to hide. If you want more weird water lists, be sure to check out our list of the Top 10 Deep Sea Mysteries. Visit My Website Here : www.nevosisland.com Check out these Deep Sea Mysteries That Remain UNSOLVED! From the biggest ocean mysteries to strange underwater phenomenon, this top 10 list of mysteries from the ocean will amaze you! SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL NOW https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHPlqErOgI8pQp4G-W7MbPA?sub_confirmation=1 Check Out These Top Trending Playlists; 1-https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyDjbvdllsdo6zVxGJG5MUsZq_EM2Znmf 2-https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyDjbvdllsdqOnLimPjwF1dcW5phtXxpj For this list, we’ll be looking at a variety of curious, compelling or even sinister deep sea discoveries and ocean mysteries. 👋 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA 👋 WEBSITE - https://www.nevosisland.com FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/nevoisland TWITTER - https://twitter.com/nevosisland INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/nevosisland PINTEREST - https://www.pinterest.com/nevosislandyoutube #nevosisland #DeepSeaMysteries #deepsea This video is about ToP 10 Deep Sea Mysteries. https://youtu.be/R1gntli3MIE https://youtu.be/R1gntli3MIETop 10 Deep Sea Mysteries.There are too many unexplained deep sea mysteries.71% of the planet’s surface is covered in water. That’s a whole lot of space for secrets to hide. If you want more weird water lists, be sure to check out our list of the Top 10 Deep Sea Mysteries. Visit My Website Here : www.nevosisland.com Check out these Deep Sea Mysteries That Remain UNSOLVED! From the biggest ocean mysteries to strange underwater phenomenon, this top 10 list of mysteries from the ocean will amaze you! SUBSCRIBE TO MY CHANNEL NOW https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCHPlqErOgI8pQp4G-W7MbPA?sub_confirmation=1 Check Out These Top Trending Playlists; 1-https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyDjbvdllsdo6zVxGJG5MUsZq_EM2Znmf 2-https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLyDjbvdllsdqOnLimPjwF1dcW5phtXxpj For this list, we’ll be looking at a variety of curious, compelling or even sinister deep sea discoveries and ocean mysteries. 👋 CONNECT WITH ME ON SOCIAL MEDIA 👋 WEBSITE - https://www.nevosisland.com FACEBOOK - https://www.facebook.com/nevoisland TWITTER - https://twitter.com/nevosisland INSTAGRAM - https://www.instagram.com/nevosisland PINTEREST - https://www.pinterest.com/nevosislandyoutube #nevosisland #DeepSeaMysteries #deepsea This video is about ToP 10 Deep Sea Mysteries. https://youtu.be/R1gntli3MIE https://youtu.be/R1gntli3MIE Read the full article

[cyberkevvideo]

Throne of Night Theory Builds Extras Part 2: The Aquatic Drow and Companion

This build come about by pure coincidence. I had been searching around for more art by Michael and then I came across this. At the time it never dawned on me that it was without the Fire Mountain Games on it. All I saw that Michael’s name and website attached. As such, this is an extra build that wasn’t part of the “Throne of Night” AP. At least, it doesn’t appear to be. That didn’t stop me from coming up with a build though.

I honestly have no idea what this art was originally meant to go with. The site I found it on has since closed, but thankfully I found the art before it disappeared completely and  was able to save it to my Pinterest folder so I could use it at a later date.

If anyone knows, please tell me the origin of this picture/what its intended use was. It’s really cool to look at.

After looking over the build, be sure to read my final words regarding how things may or may not go after this and “Throne of Night” in the future.

I will say that I do have one more planned entry for the “Throne of Night” AP, but it’s not regarding a build or anything like that. It’s something I’ve been putting together with other game designers and a few players. It was something far too big for me, so I invited others I trusted the opinions of. I’m not sure how long it’ll take before I do that particular post though. We’ve already been working on it for a week, and it hasn’t seen much conclusion so far.

As always, for space reasons, I’ll be cropping the encounter build.

All images shared here were done by the forever fantastic and amazingly talented Michael D. Clarke, aka SpiralMagus

I do not have a Patreon or a Kickstarter, but I do have a Ko-Fi page (linked) for those who are looking to support me monetarily. There is no pressure or obligation to do so.

Finally, before I get to it, I hope everyone’s staying safe right now.

When I found this picture, I had just started up the builds for Book 5, when the PCs were traveling the Sunless Seas, and I absolutely thought this was someone who would aid the party in discovering what happened to all the kidnap victims, and not a random picture that was meant to be used for something else entirely separate from this AP. Well, for the purposes of this build, that’s its new intended designation.

The best part is because this build is completely extra, that means it’s entirely for fun and doesn’t need to conform to the OGL rules that the others would have to. To publish sources outside the official company, you need special permission to use non OGL material, or reproduce everything in its entirety. For example, a feat that’s not OGL would need to be placed in a side bar on the same page, a nearby page, or at the back of the book. In my experience,  when I first started, I unfortunately put a publisher or two in that predicament without realizing. I’ve since been told what consequences my actions have had with their books. It’s not necessarily a problem, but it does add unnecessary word counts to books that tight printing guidelines, so I knew there’s no way Gary would put himself in the position. But this? All bets are off, and it was fun to colour outside the lines, even if just a little.

I will say that had I not figured out that this wasn’t AP related, I had honestly considered doing a summoner build with the eidolon looking like a variant version of the hippocampus. Why? Because the drow had read up on them, they seemed cool, and she really wanted one. Instead, we get a druid and her actual hippocampus. I’m surprisingly happy about this change.

Despite this being a Book 5 build, she’s only a CR 15. The PCs are supposed to be level 14-16 during this time, and I didn’t want to make her so powerful that she’d be capable of possibly soloing encounters on the PC’s behalf. I mean, she is a controller type build with lots of summoning potential, and doesn’t really involved with fights personally, although she’s still capable in her wild shape.

Unlike the gug slave, who is meant to fight the party first, then be won over and unleashed upon its slavers, this drow is meant to be an ally right out of the gate. An ally that might be willing to share her discovery of a secret area that might just eventually lead to the sealed doors of the trapped demigod lich.

Slight tangent: Book 7 was going to be an “extra adventure” that was unlocked in the Kickstarter, where you discovered the demigod lich and apparently gained his phylactery and became a lich as well? Maybe stole the lichdom? I honestly wish I could say that anything regarding that encounter or discovery of location is mentioned anywhere, but sadly it’s not. At least not that I ever found. Just art for the phylactery, the lich, and the lich disintegrating? Losing power? You can see more of that in my Phylactery Guardian build. What was seen, however, was when Gary released the “world map”, there’s a spot all unto itself called the Hidden Sea. It’s my belief that that’s where the lich resides. Sadly, with the Fire Mountain Games site gone, so it the map. Thankfully, a much smaller, resized one was put up on /tg/, renamed “Underground Seas map.“

As for this drow’s story, she’s just a drow that loved the Sunless Seas, and felt drawn to it, and wanted to explore it during her younger years. A few years ago, she discovered a wounded hippocampus that had somehow been swallowed up by the above waters and dragged down the underground seas. She saved it, nursed it back to health, and they’ve been inseparable ever since.

QUILDAN BAENERVS    (CR 15; 51,200 XP) Female drow aquatic druid 16 CN Medium humanoid (aquatic, elf) Init +2; Senses darkvision 120 ft.; Perception +8 DEFENSE AC 18, touch 13, flat-footed 16 (+4 armor, +1 deflection, +2 Dex, +1 shield) hp 111 (16d8+32) Fort +13, Ref +10, Will +18; +2 vs. enchantments Defensive Abilities deep diver, resist ocean’s fury +4; DR 8/slashing or piercing; Immune sleep; SR 21 Weaknesses light blindness OFFENSE Speed 30 ft., swim 30 ft. Melee +1 shortpear +15 (1d6+3/x3) Ranged mwk light underwater crossbow +15 (1d8/19–20) or      +1 shortpear +15 (1d6+3/x3) Special Attacks wild shape (level –2) 7/day Druid Spells Prepared  (CL 16th; concentration +22)   8th—earthquake, word of recall   7th—animate plants, heal, mass cure moderate wounds   6th—antilife shell, greater dispel magic, mass bear’s endurance, mass bull’s strength   5th—animal growth, blessing of the salamander, cure critical wounds, death ward, raise animal companion   4th—atavism, echolocation, freedom of movement, rusting grasp, thorn body   3rd—cure moderate wounds, greater longstrider, thorny entanglement (R-DC 19), water breathing (already cast on companion), wind wall   2nd—aquatic cavalry, barkskin, beast speak, resist energy, tar ball   1st—blend, bristle, goodberry, heightened awareness, speak with animals, wave shield   0 (at will)—detect magic, guidance, mending, read magic Spell-like Abilities (CL 16th; concentration +18)   Constant—endure elements (cold only)   1/day—dancing lights, darkness, faerie fire STATISTICS Str 14, Dex 14, Con 12, Int 8, Wis 22, Cha 14 Base Atk +12; CMB +14; CMD 27 Feats Augment Summoning, Divine Interference, Evolved Companion (cold resistance), Monstrous Mount, Monstrous Mount Mastery, Mounted Combat, Natural Spell, Spell Focus (conjuration) Skills Handle Animal +15, Heal +13, Knowledge (geography) +8, Knowledge (nature) +10, Perception +17, Ride +14 (+16 to stay in the saddle), Spellcraft +6, Survival +14, Swim +14; Racial Modifiers +2 Perception, +8 Swim Languages Druidic, Elven, Undercommon SQ aquatic adaptation +8, amphibious, poison use, nature bond (companion), nature sense, natural swimmer, timeless body, wild empathy (aquatic or water subtype only) +10 Combat Gear lesser extend metamagic rod, wand of air bubble (5 charges), wand of cure light wounds (39 charges); Other Gear +1 wild studded leather, darkwood buckler, +1 short spear, masterwork light underwater crossbow with 20 bolts, mithral dagger, belt of incredible dexterity +2, cloak of resistance +2, headband of inspired wisdom +4, ring of protection +1, aegis of recovery, assisting gloves, elixir of vision, polymorphic pouch, spell component pouch, diamond (worth 5,000 gp), 236 gp SPECIAL ABILITIES Aquatic Wild Empathy (Ex) An aquatic druid’s wild empathy functions only on creatures that have a swim speed or the aquatic or water subtype; however, she can improve the attitude of any such creature with Intelligence 2 or less regardless of type, including mindless creatures. Deep Diver (Ex) An aquatic druid gains DR/slashing or piercing equal to 1/2 her level. This damage reduction also applies against spells and spell-like abilities that inflict damage by grappling or crushing (e.g., black tentacles, crushing hand). She never takes pressure damage from deep water. Poison Use (Ex) Drow are skilled in the use of poison and never risk accidentally poisoning themselves. Drow favor an insidious toxin that causes its victims to lapse into unconsciousness—this poison allows drow to capture slaves with great ease. Drow Poison—injury; save Fortitude DC 13; frequency 1/minute for 2 minutes; initial effect unconsciousness for 1 minute; secondary effect unconsciousness for 2d4 hours; cure 1 save. Resist Ocean’s Fury (Ex) An aquatic druid gains a +4 bonus on saving throws against spells of the water type or the exceptional or supernatural abilities of creatures with the aquatic or water subtype.

--drow’s name means “sea strider, blessed of the depths” --companion’s name means “water ally”

BRIZABBAN    (CR —; — XP) Female hippocampus N Large animal (aquatic) Init +4; Senses darkvision 60 ft., low-light vision, scent; Perception +12 DEFENSE AC 32, touch 14, flat-footed 28 (+4 armor, +1 deflection, +4 Dex, +14 natural, –1 size) hp 97 (13d8+39) Fort +12, Ref +13, Will +9; +4 vs. enchantments Defensive Abilities devotion, evasion, improved evasion; Resist cold 15 OFFENSE Speed 5 ft., swim 80 ft. Space 10 ft.; Reach 5 ft. Melee 2 bites +17/+12 (1d6+8), tail slap +11 (1d4+4) STATISTICS Str 24, Dex 18, Con 16, Int 3, Wis 14, Cha 11 Base Atk +9; CMB +17; CMD 32 Feats Blind-Fight, Combat Reflexes, Bodyguard, Endurance, Iron Will, Weapon Focus (bite) Skills Acrobatics +12, Perception +12, Stealth +4, Swim +15; Racial Modifiers +8 Swim Languages understands Undercommon SQ link, share spells, water dependency Tricks attack, come, defend, down, fetch, guard, heel, perform, seek, stay, track Gear +1 studded leather barding, amulet of mighty fists +1, cloak of resistance +1, headband of inspired wisdom +2, ring of protection +1, beast bond brand, bit and briddle, exotic military saddle SPECIAL ABILITIES Water Dependency (Ex) A hippocampus can survive out of the water for 1 minute per point of Constitution. Beyond this limit, a hippocampus runs the risk of suffocation, as if it were drowning.

--------------------------------------------

And this concludes the planned builds for Throne of Night. Anything else would honestly be just the monster stats as they are, or something with a Simple Class Template, or the Simple Advanced Template. Sadly, it’s as easy as that. At least from what I can see.

If I do any other builds, it’ll be because I had some kind of epiphany and was asked/paid to do them.

Thank you for coming with me on this journey to theory build what may have been an amazing, award-winning, underground adventure path for Pathfinder 1e.

[lethaderr-blog]

Have you heard of ?

I have to admit that I’d never heard of . I’ve heard about the gritty and grandiose port city of Marseille, also in the South of . However, is nothing like what I imagined. There’s no over the top glitz or glamour like you’d associate with the South of . has a laid back vibe. Quiet, peaceful, incredibly charming.

Nestled in the Languedoc-Roussillon coastal region of southern , probably isn’t on your radar. But, it should be. You can certainly escape the crowds here. East of Béziers and southwest of Montpellier, is not only on the edge of the Mediterranean Sea (well, technically it faces a large lagoon called the Étang de Thau), but it’s also at the southern entry point of the Canal du Midi.

I had the opportunity of starting my luxury barge cruise aboard the Athos in . Once I boarded the barge and had a glass of wine with my fellow passengers, I decided to walk around and explore the village of on my own. The next morning, we woke up in and participated in a couple of activities.

You can easily visit in a day. However, you can choose to extend your holiday by going to the beach at Plage, about 3km outside of Ville. Whether you decide to book a hotel in or visit from a canal cruise, you’re certain to be charmed and enchanted by this beautiful little town. Here are 5 reasons to visit .

The Port is Beautiful

port was originally founded by the Romans (the ancient road, Via Domitia was nearby) as a rest and recreation area. There are lots of small sailboats docked along the edge of the water, right in town. Walk from one end of the boardwalk to the other. You’ll reach a small lighthouse. Stare out to the deep blue waters and faraway coastlines. Definitely go for a stroll around the port region.

There are numerous restaurants and cafes by the water with idyllic little patios. Sit by the port with a glass of wine or a cup of coffee with the sun shining over you and a gentle breeze flowing through your hair. Sounds amazing, right? The prices here are much cheaper than other ritzy areas of the South of . There aren’t nearly the amount of tourists here – it’s a mix of local residents and visitors from houseboats on the Canal du Midi.

It’s easy to make little discoveries around the port, a protected heritage area. There’s an interesting work of public art, vine-covered buildings, the cutest small boats, and palm trees everywhere. I enjoyed watching people take their little dogs for walks along the waterfront or engaging in pleasant conversations. Everyone seemed very relaxed and at peace.

The Village is So Charming

I think my favorite aspect of visiting the village was wandering around town. I walked up and down each street and narrow alleyway, admiring the colorful rows of houses. There are so many small gardens, even if it’s just a few planters lining a railing or flower pots on a balcony.

The middle of the village lies within the old town walls. This was a fortified village until the 18th century. There haven’t been any new buildings constructed in the village since the 17th century. Some of the homes here date back to the 12th century. It really has remained mostly unchanged as centuries have passed, making it like walking through a living museum.

I wandered all over the village, many times not encountering another soul. I was so surprised that there really weren’t any other people around as I admired this charming place. I’m so used to crowds of people whenever I travel, but barely had any tourists, let alone a crowd of them.

La Maison Noilly Prat

The main attraction in is La Maison Noilly Prat, a vermouth company. Noilly Prat makes their vermouth using traditional methods dating back over 200 years. I definitely recommend taking a historic guided tour, which are available daily in French, English, and German. It’s incredible that their methods haven’t changed much since 1813.

We took a tour through the giant barrel cellar, Chai des Mistelles. This indoor cellar was built in the 1850s, containing gigantic wooden vats. They age Mistelles wines for up to 12 months in these huge barrels.

Next, we were led outdoors to a place called L’Enclos. We discovered hundreds of barrels sitting out in the sunshine. It’s quite amazing that these dry white wines are left to the elements to age for 12 months. I’ve never seen anything quite like it!

Eventually, we went to another room indoors where the dry white wines, mistelles, and a combination of 20 dried herbs and spices are blended and macerated to create Noilly Prat. The recipes are closely guarded secrets. However, there was a display of some of the spices that go into each variety of Noilly Prat (there are four in total).

Eventually, we tasted each variety of Noilly Prat. I can’t say that I’m a huge fan of hard alcohol, but I can appreciate the interesting methods behind this one. After a small tasting, we went to the larger (and beautifully designed) tasting room for a Noilly Prat cocktail. There’s also an outdoor courtyard where you can enjoy your cocktail beneath an umbrella or out in the sunshine. It’s worth a trip to La Maison Noilly Prat, even if you aren’t in love with liquor. Its history is very intriguing and the property is stunning.

A Game of Pétanque

Have you heard of petanque? I didn’t know anything about this game before my Athos cruise. Thankfully, our tour guide, Mathieu, taught us how to play. Pétanque (boules) is similar to bocce, but played with metal balls on a gravel surface.

Essentially, you divide into two teams. One person throws the “piglet”, a smaller ball that becomes the target. Players try to throw their metal ball the closest to the piglet. Then, you can try to hit your opponents’ balls out of the way as a part of the strategy.

In the South of and , it’s common to gather your friends together to play a game of petanque. We played petanque while sipping glasses of rosé. It’s the perfect spring and summertime activity. While you might have to gather your own group together and bring your own set of boules, maybe you’ll make some friends in who will challenge you to a game. Regardless, I hope you have the chance to play petanque. It’s a lot of fun!

Cruise the Canal du Midi

is at the southern entry point of the Canal du Midi. The Canal du Midi is a UNESCO World Heritage Site with a fascinating history. This 360 km network of waterways links the Mediterranean and the Atlantic through locks, bridges, and tunnels. The Canal du Midi was constructed between 1667 and 1694.

If you have your own boat or you’re sailing on a barge cruise, you might stop at for a day or two like I did. Once you set sail on the Canal du Midi, your relaxing vacation from continues on the water. There’s nothing like drifting down the canal, admiring the gorgeous scenery. It’s a very slow and restorative way of life.

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Free Ebooks (6/22/17)

    PLEASE REMEMBER THAT THE FREE PRICING IS ONLY A SPECIAL FOR THE DIGITAL FORMAT OF THE BOOK THAT IS LISTED AND IS ONLY AVAILABLE FOR A LIMITED TIME, SO BE SURE TO PURCHASE THE E-BOOKS BEFORE THE PRICE RETURNS TO ITS NORMAL LISTING. (Unless you want to buy them at full price:)

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      A Coffee Lover’s Guide to Coffee by Shlomo Stern: A friendly guide to coffee with the valuable information any coffee lover must know. A Coffee Lover’s Guide is an accessible, comprehensive, easy-to-read and enjoyable guide, written with love and made especially for anyone drinking, making, selling or buying coffee.

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  Into The Darkness Laughing by Patrice Chaplin: The Story of Jeanne Hebuterne and Amedeo Modigliani, doomed lovers and artists of Montparnasse in early twentieth century Paris.

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    Rose Under Glass by Elizabeth Berridge: Complex and fragile characters meet and intermingle against the backdrop of 1950s London, rubbing shoulders with writers and artists, where the noise and energy of the markets mirror the noise and energy of conversations.

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  Mail Order Brides of Texas by Kathleen Ball: An amazing 5 book set! Meet strong women and the men who love them in this very special set. Enjoy the happiness, love, and sorrows of the brides to be and, of course, mystery and mayhem sprinkled in! Book 1, Callie’s Heart – Winner of the 2015 Diamond Lear Award for Best Historical Romance and Rone Award Finalist.

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  An Outcast’s Wish by Aileen Adams: Maccay Douglas finds a trespasser on Duncan lands. Except the trespasser isn’t some lad up to mischief. It’s a woman in boy’s clothing. A woman with a bruise on her head and no name, and hunting skills. She claims she doesn’t know who she is. That doesn’t stop him from falling in love.

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  A Masterpiece Of Our Love by Nikki Lynn Barrett: One summer reunion between two plane crash survivors turns mysterious when an unknown visitor from the past surfaces. Can these two friends with an unbreakable bond survive the hell that is about to unleash on their lives?

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  North Star by M.E. Montgomery: After Kayla Matthews literally falls for Alex North, they find they can help heal each other’s emotional hurts, but their priority is to create a new family for Alex’s orphaned nephew, Aiden. But not everyone is thrilled with the newly formed family, and it seems there’s no telling what lengths they’ll go to in order to break them up.

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  Banger by Dick Hertz: Well-endowed Greyson James meets pleasure-seeking Katherine Clayton. She thinks he’s a temporary summer fling. He wants something more permanent. Will what they’ve found in each other be enough for happily ever after? Or will one summer fling be all they share?

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  The Rock Star Wants A Wife by Demelza Carlton: Twelve girls. Four weeks. One reality TV show. The prize? A rock star’s heart. After losing her job, Penelope will do anything to regain her reputation – even a reality TV dating show. Can she resist the rock star bachelor’s charms…or will marriage be on the menu?

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  On A Night Like This by Barbara Freethy: Fall in love with the Callaways in the first book in this NYT bestselling series about a family born to serve and protect. Sara had always been untouchable, his sister’s best friend, and the girl next door. But one reckless night in their youth took their relationship to a new level.

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  Wild Kisses: 3:AM Kisses by Addison Moore: Piper James isn’t at all interested in obnoxious Owen Vincent or his overinflated ego. Once their internship comes to an end, she wants nothing to do with him. But when her sorority gives her a bucket list of less than savory requirements to check off if she ever wants to get a bed in the house, she considers Owen as the solution to her dilemma.

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    Sea Change: A Nina Bannister Mystery by T’Gracie & Joe Reese: Bay St. Lucy is a sleepy little town on the Mississippi Gulf Coast, and that’s how its residents like it — especially retired high school principal Nina Bannister. Things change rapidly, however, when beautiful, newly rich, and unscrupulous Eve Ivory announces plans to turn the village into Las Vegas South. Murder ensues, and it will require all of Nina’s wits to solve the mystery.

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  The Haunting of Rachel Harroway by J.S Donovan: The discovery of a serial killer’s burial ground rocks the peaceful town of Highlands, North Carolina. Rachel Harroway, a tragic detective with the ability to see the dead, and her brilliant atheistic partner, Jenson Peak, are put on the case. Only through the use of their unique talents can the orphaned dead find rest and the reinvigorated killer be brought to justice.

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  The Shattered Bull by Patrick Kanouse: The first book in the Drexel Pierce series. Mixing police-procedural and hard-boiled genres, Chicago homicide Detective Pierce, struggling to overcome the death of his wife, investigates the murder of an up-and-coming politician and felon known as the Bull. As his commander demands an arrest, Pierce risks his career to prevent a rush to judgment.

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  Everett by Jenifer Ruff: Dark psychological suspense at a New England college when a coed disappears. A must-read for fans of Gone Girl. “A beautifully written thriller with mesmerizing characters, Everett takes the reader on a nail-biting journey that builds with suspense until its shocking conclusion.” – Author David Robert

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  Redemption Cove by David Calder: A terrific, hi-tech crime-adventure novel set in the wild Canadian North-West, filled with action, hair-raising backwoods flying, and a deep and profound love, but above all, the telling of a man’s second chance and ultimate triumph and redemption despite the odds.

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  Twisted Trees by Tony Berry: Former spy Bromo Perkins has long been ‘retired’ to Australia where he runs a one-man travel agency. His clients are a select group – including other ‘sleepers’, acting on orders from London, people like businessman Dave McCoy. But Bromo soon discovers somebody has it in for the Melbourne McCoys. Can Perkins figure out who’s behind the deadly attacks before he himself is targeted?

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  Arctic Warriors by Ken Bangs: Arctic Warriors… a story about the struggle between the defenders of freedom and the forces of tyranny in America’s northernmost outpost. They were alone. Trespassers, come to kill or retrieve a traitor.

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    Rise of The Iron Eagle: The Iron Eagle Series (Book 1) by Roy A. Teel Jr.: Justice has evolved! A new anti-hero for the 21st century, who sends his murder victims to their deaths with these final words, “May God NOT have mercy on your soul.”

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Culture and coastline: Greenland. Photo: Michelle Valberg

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During the pre-cruise briefing for Adventure Canada's 15-day expedition to Greenland and Labrador in Newfoundland, expedition leader Jason Edmunds says we will sail more than 2000 nautical miles (3700 km), cross cultural borders and travel through bear territory – black and polar. He emphasises that the "intended itinerary" is just that – intended, and we should be prepared to expect the unexpected.

We're up at dawn for the flight from Toronto to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, a journey that should take about six hours, including a fuel stop at Baffin Island. Our First Air 737 is the first of the two charter planes to land at Iqaluit – a spectacular descent through sunlit clouds over white-cap dotted sea and snow-scattered mountains – but for technical reasons the aircraft is grounded for two and a half hours. No biggie, we're in a pretty remote spot and it's better to arrive late than not at all.

Cut to our arrival onboard Ocean Endeavour some 10 hours later. It's dark and we've now crossed the Davis Strait three times, having been unable to land at Kangerlussuaq first time around which meant a return to Iqaluit to wait for the second attempt. Emergency glasses of wine are dispensed to keep the mood boosted and it's certainly an early lesson in expecting the unexpected. But on the chilly Zodiac ride to the ship, the day's frustrations vanish in an instant when the sky comes alive with rolling, flashing green Northern Lights. Oh yes, this is a magnificent welcome to Greenland.

Kangaamiut village. Photo: Adventure Canada

We see a tiny sliver of the west coast of the world's biggest island over the next few days. It is the start of an eye-opening journey into Inuit country and cultures, over oceans and land masses covering boundless areas of icy, rocky wilderness. Seeing and hearing a glacier calving – the breaking off of ice chunks – on our first Zodiac excursion in Evighedsfjorden, "fiord of eternity", is as perfectly timed as last night's Northern Lights show and a magical start to our adventure.

Our first landing is at Kangaamiut, a tiny fishing village in the Qeqqata municipality. An Inuit woman greets us with a traditional drum dance, we listen to an eight-strong choir singing hauntingly beautiful songs in the packed local church and witness a seal flensing near the dock. Ocean Endeavour's onboard culturalists stress that this is not compulsory viewing but that sustainable seal hunting is a vital part of Inuit culture. Choice bits of liver and blubber are shared among the group of onlookers – locals and visitors alike – but I confess, I only go as far as observing.

Nuuk, where we spend a day before crossing the Davis Strait for the fourth time, is the northernmost capital in the world and is home to the acclaimed Greenland National Museum and the strikingly contemporary Katuaq Cultural Centre. .

There's a lot to take in, let alone learning how to pronounce the place names on our itinerary, but Adventure Canada's team of 30-plus expedition leaders, culturalists, scientists and photographers impart an impressive range of expert knowledge in lectures, presentations, workshops and on-shore excursions.

Renowned Canadian photographer Michelle Valberg is on board and as well as documenting the voyage, she plays an important role in Project North, a non-profit organisation that supplies sporting equipment to children in the Canadian Arctic. As we sail towards Nunavik (Inuit-governed territory that covers one-third of Quebec province), enthusiastic passengers join Valberg's packing party to put together ice-hockey kits that we later deliver to the community centre in Kangiqsualujjuaq village. It's cold and almost dark when we arrive but the reception we receive, and the hockey game played (hard) by locals and passengers, is enough to warm hearts for a long time to come.

The weather turns colder and wilder as we head towards Akpatok island, north of Kangiqsualujjuaq in Ungava Bay. There's ice on the ship's deck and 55-knot winds and rough seas are forecast. Captain Donael Soto keeps the ship in a holding pattern in the lee of the island until conditions permit the transit to Torngat Mountains National Park, on the Labrador Peninsula.

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Everyone is on deck as the ship enters Nachvak Fiord. Sunrise adds a surreal touch to this wildly beautiful terrain and as the ship approaches Ramah Bay, a polar bear alert is broadcast across the ship. I can't believe I'm actually seeing a polar bear in its own, lonely territory, let alone managing to capture images of it on my iPhone.

Black bears also roam these parts and armed crew members patrol landing areas. We see plenty of evidence of the bears' presence in berry-packed droppings but the few we spot are foraging on distant hillsides. Other wildlife sightings are frequent and thrilling: humpback whales, seals, minke whales at very close quarters from the Zodiac ride to Nain, and too many seabirds to list here. Apart from the peregrine falcon who made himself at home on the Zodiac racks one windy morning.

From the Torngat Mountains base camp at Saglek Fiord, as at other landings, we set off on hikes of varying degrees of difficulty. The landscape surrounding the easy route to a spectacular waterfall is like something out of a painting – cool, silvery light illuminates swathes of flaming crimson and gold Arctic berry patches among the snowy hills and lichen-covered rocks. Fitter passengers take a more challenging, four-hour ridge hike and later share photos of views even more sublime.

Two polar bears. Photo: Andrew Stewart

When Ocean Endeavour drops anchor in Nain, mayor Joe Dicker comes aboard to welcome us to his town, the administrative capital of Inuit-governed Nunatsiavut. He explains that missionaries from the protestant Moravian faith established a settlement here in 1771 and Nain's wooden church, rebuilt several times since then, is still well attended. There is a fascinating history of Moravian-Inuit brass bands and one of Nain's finest play us as we disembark.

Near the dock we meet Noah, a kayak instructor, in his workshop. He not only builds traditional Inuit kayaks but possibly knows even more about their heritage and use than author and explorer Jerry Kobalenko, a passionate paddler who presents great talks and films on the ship. This journey is a constant learning experience. Our next port of call, L'Anse aux Meadows on the Newfoundland coast, is the only known Viking settlement in Canada.

L'Anse aux Meadows is a World Heritage Site and the story of its discovery by Norwegian explorer Helge Ingstad and his archeologist wife Anne Stine Ingstad in 1960 is as compelling as the place itself. A boardwalk trail takes you around the site where you can see original Norse dwellings dating back at least 1000 years and further along, enthusiastic actors dressed as Vikings demonstrate crafts such as blacksmithing and making bog-iron nails in cleverly re-created sod huts.

Torngat Mountains National Park, Greenland. Photo: Adventure Canada

This experience-packed voyage comes to an end in scenic St Johns, North America's oldest city. It takes days, weeks, to process priceless memories, some funny, some moving but most of all incredibly educational. Every morning, expedition leader Edmunds broadcasts a wake-up call in his rich, deep voice and one of my favourites is when he quotes from John Steinbeck: "A journey is like marriage. The certain way to be wrong is to think you control it."

FIVE FACTS ABOUT ADVENTURE CANADA

FAMILY AFFAIR

Adventure Canada was founded in 1987 by Matthew Swan, his brother Bill and their friend Dave Freeze. Today, Matthew's daughters Cedar Swan and Alana Faber are CEO and VP Operations respectively, and son Matthew James is director of business development. Cedar's husband Jason Edmunds is an expedition leader, Alana's husband Brian Faber and Matthew James' partner Devon all work in the company. A family member travels on every voyage.

Karrat Fjord. Photo: Dennis Minty

DESTINATIONS

The Arctic, including the Northwest Passage; Atlantic Canada, including Greenland, Newfoundland and the St Lawrence River; Haida Gwaii in the Pacific Northwest; Antarctica; South and Central America; Ireland, Scotland and Iceland.

THE SHIPS

Greenlandic girl in window. Photo: Michelle Valberg

Adventure Canada charters the 198-passenger Ocean Endeavour for Arctic and Northern Europe voyages, 108-passenger Hebridean Sky in Antarctica, 12-passenger SV Island Solitude in British Columbia and south-east Alaska, 49-passenger MS Panorama in Costa Rica and the Panama Canal and the 46-passenger La Pinta in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.

EXPEDITION TEAM

Up to 30 experts and local guides accompany cruises. Local guides include indigenous leaders, musicians, artists and culturalists from the regions travelled in.

Zodiak ride, Greenland. Photo: Michelle Valberg

YOUNG EXPLORERS

As well as supporting several community projects, Adventure Canada runs the Young Explorers Program in conjunction with the Explorers Club. Participants are between 18 and 30 and join select expeditions to learn about the Arctic and contribute to the world's understanding of the region through their research.

TRIP NOTES

The writer was a guest of Cruise Traveller.

Ocean Endeavour. Photo: Michelle Valberg

MORE

traveller.com.au/greenland

adventurecanada.com

FLY

Air Canada flies daily non-stop to Vancouver from Brisbane and Sydney and up to four times a week from Melbourne. See aircanada.com

CRUISE

Adventure Canada's Greenland & Wild Labrador cruises depart September and October 2019 and 2020. Fares, including one night's accommodation in Toronto and flight from Toronto to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, from US$10,040 (2019) and US$9750 (2020). Phone 1800 507 777, see cruisetraveller.com.au

from traveller.com.au

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Culture and coastline: Greenland. Photo: Michelle Valberg

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During the pre-cruise briefing for Adventure Canada's 15-day expedition to Greenland and Labrador in Newfoundland, expedition leader Jason Edmunds says we will sail more than 2000 nautical miles, cross cultural borders and travel through bear territory – black and polar. He emphasises that the "intended itinerary" is just that – intended, and we should be prepared to expect the unexpected.

We're up at dawn for the flight from Toronto to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, a journey that should take about six hours, including a fuel stop at Baffin Island. Our First Air 737 is the first of the two charter planes to land at Iqaluit – a spectacular descent through sunlit clouds over white-cap dotted sea and snow-scattered mountains – but for technical reasons the aircraft is grounded for two and a half hours. No biggie, we're in a pretty remote spot and it's better to arrive late than not at all.

Cut to our arrival onboard Ocean Endeavour some 10 hours later. It's dark and we've now crossed the Davis Strait three times, having been unable to land at Kangerlussuaq first time around which meant a return to Iqaluit to wait for the second attempt. Emergency glasses of wine are dispensed to keep the mood boosted and it's certainly an early lesson in expecting the unexpected. But on the chilly Zodiac ride to the ship, the day's frustrations vanish in an instant when the sky comes alive with rolling, flashing green Northern Lights. Oh yes, this is a magnificent welcome to Greenland.

Kangaamiut village. Photo: Adventure Canada

We see a tiny sliver of the west coast of the world's biggest island over the next few days. It is the start of an eye-opening journey into Inuit country and cultures, over oceans and land masses covering boundless areas of icy, rocky wilderness. Seeing and hearing a glacier calving – the breaking off of ice chunks – on our first Zodiac excursion in Evighedsfjorden, "fiord of eternity", is as perfectly timed as last night's Northern Lights show and a magical start to our adventure.

Our first landing is at Kangaamiut, a tiny fishing village in the Qeqqata municipality. An Inuit woman greets us with a traditional drum dance, we listen to an eight-strong choir singing hauntingly beautiful songs in the packed local church and witness a seal flensing near the dock. Ocean Endeavour's onboard culturalists stress that this is not compulsory viewing but that sustainable seal hunting is a vital part of Inuit culture. Choice bits of liver and blubber are shared among the group of onlookers – locals and visitors alike – but I confess, I only go as far as observing.

Nuuk, where we spend a day before crossing the Davis Strait for the fourth time, is the northernmost capital in the world and is home to the acclaimed Greenland National Museum and the strikingly contemporary Katuaq Cultural Centre. .

There's a lot to take in, let alone learning how to pronounce the place names on our itinerary, but Adventure Canada's team of 30-plus expedition leaders, culturalists, scientists and photographers impart an impressive range of expert knowledge in lectures, presentations, workshops and on-shore excursions.

Renowned Canadian photographer Michelle Valberg is on board and as well as documenting the voyage, she plays an important role in Project North, a non-profit organisation that supplies sporting equipment to children in the Canadian Arctic. As we sail towards Nunavik (Inuit-governed territory that covers one-third of Quebec province), enthusiastic passengers join Valberg's packing party to put together ice-hockey kits that we later deliver to the community centre in Kangiqsualujjuaq village. It's cold and almost dark when we arrive but the reception we receive, and the hockey game played (hard) by locals and passengers, is enough to warm hearts for a long time to come.

The weather turns colder and wilder as we head towards Akpatok island, north of Kangiqsualujjuaq in Ungava Bay. There's ice on the ship's deck and 55-knot winds and rough seas are forecast. Captain Donael Soto keeps the ship in a holding pattern in the lee of the island until conditions permit the transit to Torngat Mountains National Park, on the Labrador Peninsula.

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Everyone is on deck as the ship enters Nachvak Fiord. Sunrise adds a surreal touch to this wildly beautiful terrain and as the ship approaches Ramah Bay, a polar bear alert is broadcast across the ship. I can't believe I'm actually seeing a polar bear in its own, lonely territory, let alone managing to capture images of it on my iPhone.

Black bears also roam these parts and armed crew members patrol landing areas. We see plenty of evidence of the bears' presence in berry-packed droppings but the few we spot are foraging on distant hillsides. Other wildlife sightings are frequent and thrilling: humpback whales, seals, minke whales at very close quarters from the Zodiac ride to Nain, and too many seabirds to list here. Apart from the peregrine falcon who made himself at home on the Zodiac racks one windy morning.

From the Torngat Mountains base camp at Saglek Fiord, as at other landings, we set off on hikes of varying degrees of difficulty. The landscape surrounding the easy route to a spectacular waterfall is like something out of a painting – cool, silvery light illuminates swathes of flaming crimson and gold Arctic berry patches among the snowy hills and lichen-covered rocks. Fitter passengers take a more challenging, four-hour ridge hike and later share photos of views even more sublime.

Two polar bears. Photo: Andrew Stewart

When Ocean Endeavour drops anchor in Nain, mayor Joe Dicker comes aboard to welcome us to his town, the administrative capital of Inuit-governed Nunatsiavut. He explains that missionaries from the protestant Moravian faith established a settlement here in 1771 and Nain's wooden church, rebuilt several times since then, is still well attended. There is a fascinating history of Moravian-Inuit brass bands and one of Nain's finest play us as we disembark.

Near the dock we meet Noah, a kayak instructor, in his workshop. He not only builds traditional Inuit kayaks but possibly knows even more about their heritage and use than author and explorer Jerry Kobalenko, a passionate paddler who presents great talks and films on the ship. This journey is a constant learning experience. Our next port of call, L'Anse aux Meadows on the Newfoundland coast, is the only known Viking settlement in Canada.

L'Anse aux Meadows is a World Heritage Site and the story of its discovery by Norwegian explorer Helge Ingstad and his archeologist wife Anne Stine Ingstad in 1960 is as compelling as the place itself. A boardwalk trail takes you around the site where you can see original Norse dwellings dating back at least 1000 years and further along, enthusiastic actors dressed as Vikings demonstrate crafts such as blacksmithing and making bog-iron nails in cleverly re-created sod huts.

Torngat Mountains National Park, Greenland. Photo: Adventure Canada

This experience-packed voyage comes to an end in scenic St Johns, North America's oldest city. It takes days, weeks, to process priceless memories, some funny, some moving but most of all incredibly educational. Every morning, expedition leader Edmunds broadcasts a wake-up call in his rich, deep voice and one of my favourites is when he quotes from John Steinbeck: "A journey is like marriage. The certain way to be wrong is to think you control it."

FIVE FACTS ABOUT ADVENTURE CANADA

FAMILY AFFAIR

Adventure Canada was founded in 1987 by Matthew Swan, his brother Bill and their friend Dave Freeze. Today, Matthew's daughters Cedar Swan and Alana Faber are CEO and VP Operations respectively, and son Matthew James is director of business development. Cedar's husband Jason Edmunds is an expedition leader, Alana's husband Brian Faber and Matthew James' partner Devon all work in the company. A family member travels on every voyage.

Karrat Fjord. Photo: Dennis Minty

DESTINATIONS

The Arctic, including the Northwest Passage; Atlantic Canada, including Greenland, Newfoundland and the St Lawrence River; Haida Gwaii in the Pacific Northwest; Antarctica; South and Central America; Ireland, Scotland and Iceland.

THE SHIPS

Greenlandic girl in window. Photo: Michelle Valberg

Adventure Canada charters the 198-passenger Ocean Endeavour for Arctic and Northern Europe voyages, 108-passenger Hebridean Sky in Antarctica, 12-passenger SV Island Solitude in British Columbia and south-east Alaska, 49-passenger MS Panorama in Costa Rica and the Panama Canal and the 46-passenger La Pinta in Ecuador and the Galapagos Islands.

EXPEDITION TEAM

Up to 30 experts and local guides accompany cruises. Local guides include indigenous leaders, musicians, artists and culturalists from the regions travelled in.

Zodiak ride, Greenland. Photo: Michelle Valberg

YOUNG EXPLORERS

As well as supporting several community projects, Adventure Canada runs the Young Explorers Program in conjunction with the Explorers Club. Participants are between 18 and 30 and join select expeditions to learn about the Arctic and contribute to the world's understanding of the region through their research.

TRIP NOTES

The writer was a guest of Adventure Canada and Air Canada.

Ocean Endeavour. Photo: Michelle Valberg

MORE

traveller.com.au/greenland

adventurecanada.com

FLY

Air Canada flies daily non-stop to Vancouver from Brisbane and Sydney and up to four times a week from Melbourne. See aircanada.com

CRUISE

Adventure Canada's Greenland & Wild Labrador cruises depart September and October 2019 and 2020. Fares, including one night's accommodation in Toronto and flight from Toronto to Kangerlussuaq, Greenland, from US$10,040 (2019) and US$9750 (2020). See adventurecanda.com

from traveller.com.au