#ref: azure square

[lndslorepuzzler]

Under Deepspace: Galactic Sunset, pt 1-10

01: Bonfire: FMC wakes up to herself and Qi Yu beside a bonfire. Qi Yu chastises FMC, "The line between being kind and being dumb is very thin. A small, smart fish swims away while it still can when the big fish are hunting." She points out that he was swimming directly into a whirlpool, which he has no response for. He claims that saving FMC was just his act of kindness for the day, and asks how long the "malicious creature will keep an eye on (them...)" after which comes the best exchange in the main story.*1

Then, discussing animals in general, Qi Yu says, "Animals that are fond of humans usually have a tragic end... One moment you're cute and cuddly, the next they toss you aside. You're forgotten, left behind. ...And you? Wasn't there something important you forgot about?"

He informs FMC that he's keeping the protocore from the Wanderer, but gives her an invitation to 'Hunting Day' at The Nest. FMC says he must be a regular, which Qi Yu gives a flippant response to; then he makes a point that she'd best wear a disguise to get in, pick up some local lingo and stop flashing the Hunter's Watch. He says he'll cover for her when it matters, but points out that one "(has) to pay a very high price for obscure information. Especially for stuff involving-... Mysterious protocores."*2

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02: Desecrated Soil: In a dark alley, Shen Xinghui is confronted by a stranger, while the Astronomy Channel talks about a dead planet, -P0159, recently discovered by the DAA. The stranger says he can't believe that Shen Xinghui was involved in Isaiah's death, that he would never attack their comrades. "As you can see, I'm a monster now... You don't want to end up like me, right? But sooner or later, you'll be walking down this path as well. Only she can save us. You, of all people, should know!" He says he's seen "that thing" with her.

Shen Xinghui cuts him off, saying "Until that day comes, no one should even think about getting close to her. The same goes for me." The stranger accuses Shen Xinghui of being a traitor, forgetting about his home. Shen Xinghui kills him; he "transforms into specks of light soon corroded by black particles. They dissolve into the cracks of the road." Shen Xinghui leaves, and the narration notes "Cleanup isn't necessary. No one would notice there being one less person of their kind. Besides, this city is riddled with filth."

The next scene brings Shen Xinghui to The Nest, where he tosses the bartender a blood-smeared, damaged protocore. The bartender notes that he always takes bounties but never rewards, and Shen Xinghui points out that he might be on the bounty list, too. He says he won't be coming to Hunting Day, and the bartender gives him a dark-colored envelope.

Shen Xinghui notes that "someone deliberately stirred up trouble in The Nest today. But he doesn't have the patience for it... There are three pairs (of eyes watching him.) It's likely his actions in the alley caught their attention. After all, birds of a feather flock together. If he makes his move here, he'll have another bounty on his head. He needs to be more careful in Linkon from now on." FMC walks into The Nest, and Shen Xinghui catches her by the arm and pulls her outside.*3

03: Luminous Veil: Now in Azure Square, FMC and Shen Xinghui have a chance to talk; FMC figures that Shen Xinghui's dodging of her questions means that something bigger is going on, but he turns the conversation toward her intentions to enter the N109 Zone. She thinks about how they've reached an understanding, in that neither of them asks the other any questions. Shen Xinghui points out that it's not the getting in, but the surviving/getting out that's going to be tricky, and tells FMC about the protocore auction. He explains that Onychinus is likely going to auction off a high-grade protocore to the highest bidder due to their earlier business transactions being ruined by Lumiere destroying a large number of protocores.

Before they can get any deeper into the conversation, FMC notices that a bunch of the patrol robots are hovering/watching them, and asks/tells Shen Xinghui that the people trying to capture him have decided to make a move. She notes to herself that they always find themselves in this kind of situation, and it's more likely a threat to Shen Xinghui than it is a coincidence. Shen Xinghui and FMC resonate to allow Shen Xinghui's Evol to destroy the patrol robots. They leave the scene.*4

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04: COMBAT

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05: Philo: Shen Xinghui and FMC show up at Jeremiah's flower shop, Philo, in a flash of light; he's startled enough to chastise Shen Xinghui until FMC peeks around his shoulder, at which point he freezes up. FMC doesn't know what to do with Jeremiah's surprise, while Shen Xinghui just reaches to water the laurel Jeremiah is holding, and tells FMC that "he's not young anymore, so he's a bit slow on the uptake now." Jeremiah starts to say 'long time no see'*5 but stops himself, and does something to the glass that makes them 'out of sight,' so they can talk. Jeremiah brings up the no-hunt zone, but Shen Xinghui explains that he needs an identity for FMC to get into the N109 Zone safely. Jeremiah agrees to help, and creates a false identity for FMC to take on once at the protore auction/inside the N109 Zone. Jeremiah tries to measure FMC for clothes; Shen Xinghui gives him a good shot with the spray bottle, and tells him she can do it herself.*6

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06: Unconventional Advice: While Jeremiah goes to start taking care of the details of the false identity, Shen Xinghui and FMC have a conversation about how exactly to act convincingly in front of the people she'll be trying to deceive. FMC points out that there's no way this was a spur of the moment thing, and that Jeremiah is too helpful, and wonders why Jeremiah isn't helping Shen Xinghui, instead. He reminds her that he's 'just a normal Deepspace Hunter,' and what follows is a demonstration of all the things Shen Xinghui is telling her; she's too polite, she needs to believe she's always right, and that she shouldn't "provoke people who have yet to show their hand."*7 Jeremiah comes back then immediately leaves after glancing over them, claiming he entered the wrong room.

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07: Stellar Guidance: Jeremiah gives FMC a box of supplies to aid her in her deception; she's curious about who he is, given how quickly he put all of this together, and how sincere he is about being glad to help her, despite never thinking he would be able to do so. Shen Xinghui inserts himself between the two of them, and FMC heads home, since Shen Xinghui "(has) plans today." Before he goes, he gives FMC a transmitter presumably pierced into her ear; "Even if you're somewhere in the N109 Zone with no signal, we can still track your location." He also gives her an inhibitor (which will make her "temporarily immune to 98.7% of neurotoxins") and a self-defense needle. FMC asks if he has a magic pocket or something, and Shen Xinghui gives her a bouquet of flowers ("They just happened to blossom. So, I sincerely hope you'll accept them.")

After FMC leaves Philo, Jeremiah and Shen Xinghui talk. Jeremiah wants to know if Shen Xinghui managed to stay calm when he saw her the first time, and if he really doesn't care about the Nonintervention Principle. Shen Xinghui points out that some have already stopped caring about it, or else many of the bad things happening wouldn't have happened in the first place. He also notes that the N109 Zone will be safer than Linkon in a few days.

Jeremiah says he can't remember all the faces of the Backtrackers, and agrees that the Nonintervention Principle is useless "for (those) whose presence here was always a mistake... And mistakes are bound to be corrected sooner or later. Maybe we're slowly being erased as we speak." Shen Xinghui asks about the condition of the Traceback 2, and Jeremiah wonders if there's even anyone on the other side of the Deepspace Tunnel who could respond to them. Shen Xinghui promises that Jeremiah will return, while Jeremiah points out that "having Evol doesn't make you invincible... And you're... This isn't Philos. And we, you know, aren't truly immortal. Our kind, I mean."

This passage closes out the section:

08: COMBAT (Challenge)

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09: Into Deep*8: FMC takes in the information that she's learned from Li Shen (that Onychinus may already have protocores in their possession,) advice from Shen Xinghui (that a powerful reputation will keep people from messing with you,) and Qi Yu (that her best bet for getting what she wants is to make herself the bait) and decides she's ready to go. She calls Qi Yu and tells him to "meet (her) at The Nest. Show (her) how to fish."*9

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Qi Yu does meet FMC; he walks her through the process of 'setting up a deal.' He stops her just before she completes the last step, reminding her that if the deal "doesn't go smoothly, (she) will be the payment, instead." FMC decides the risk is worth the reward and finishes the transaction. Qi Yu walks away, saying "Since you've made up your mind, I won't stop you. I hope you find the answer you seek."

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10: Trap: It's Hunting Day at The Nest, and FMC is the target. The red eye is back, this time as a physical object; FMC is injected with C-003 neurotoxin, and falls unconscious. Up in a side room Qi Yu speaks with an unknown man*10 about how the situation is getting more dangerous; Qi Yu points out that things are still up in the air, and asks for/is given a small black box. When asked if he's "fine with handling over a fresh catch just like that," he asks, "Do you really think they can handle the prey I caught?"

There is then an ending sequence showing the (presumed) locations of Shen Xinghui, Li Shen, and Qi Yu; at Traceback 2, in the Arctic, and in front of/disappearing from the large painting in his studio. The text reads as follows:

Traceback 2 will reach the edge of the Deepspace Tunnel's umbra within one day.

Our journey through the Deepspace Tunnel begins.

Destination is in the Orion arm of the Milky Way--

Once the home of humanity: Earth.

Activating Course Correction Engine.

The final countdown has been initiated...

When P0159's light shines through the Deepspace Tunnel, illuminating Linkon Tower's pinnacle... The closest we've been to it in last 4.6 billion years.

This galaxy's name is derived from the Greek word, "philo." It is the most exquisite gem in Deepspace.

Philos.*11

Humanity remains shackled to time.

Fortunately, there are other lives in this boundless (unreadable)

Tonight's weather, clear sky with winds around 7 miles/hour.

Everything is serene inside the Deepspace Tunnel.

Goodnight, Linkon City.

May you rest in the Milky Way's embrace, drifting in a realm of long and happy dreams.

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*1, Bar none, this is still the best thing I've ever seen. I also enjoy the implication that Qi Yu can talk to ALL animals, not just fish/oceanic creatures.

*2, Obviously, Qi Yu knows more than he lets on, as we find out later in World Underneath: Long Lost Treasures.

*3, This entire section is heavy on the Shen Xinghui lore, and seems to be painting him in the role of the classic, amoral bounty hunter. The fact that his supposed ex-companion dissipates the same way Wanderers do (in a fizzle like Metaflux) is interesting; even more interesting is that Shen Xinghui has absolutely no hesitation in killing him. Isaiah is mentioned; he has his own tag, seen below. With all of these clues, we can safely extrapolate that Shen Xinghui just killed someone who was on the same mission as he was aboard the Traceback 2, and that his physical state was deteriorating for as-of-now unknown reasons.

*4, Worth noting that at the beginning, a newscaster talks about how the Deepspace Aviation Administration found traces of organisms that once lived on P0159.

*5, Connections to life before the Traceback 2 mission, see Shen Xinghui: Myth: ()

*6, See above, with specific attention to Shen Xinghui's canon jealousy/possessiveness/abandonment issues.

*7, Refer back to *3, and the general understanding that Shen Xinghui never reveals his cards until he's absolutely sure he's on the same page as the person he's with. The FMC also mentions the feeling of danger and weight; that she is not in control of the situation despite being the one standing up.

*8, I love that this can be taken as 'into deep,' as in 'into a deep place' or 'in too deep,' as in, 'in over your head.' I feel like both interpretations work.

*9, This occurs the day after Shen Xinghui pulls her out of The Nest.

*10, He is wearing this crest, is, in fact, the EVER Group symbol.

*11, In case any of us were wondering, 'philos' is in fact the ancient Greek word for love.

[retro-vgm-revival-hour]

RETRO VGM REVIVAL HOUR: BONUS STAGE 7 – Friendship Edition

Now that the dumpster fire that is 2020 is coming to and end, Its time to look forward to the many new challenges and experiences that are in store for us, and with that It’s that time again here at the Retro VGM Revival hour, where you, the fellow listener, have entered another BONUS STAGE.

So let us take a little break from the action and distract ourselves with something to reward your progress thus far.

These video game tracks are a selection of random video game compositions that I have chosen as a reward for showing much love and respect to those have been with this podcast since its inception…but this time, It’s a little bit different.This special version includes various shout-outs to various friends that I’ve reached out to for suggestions of their top 3-4 tracks from their favorite games. They will be placed in-between the other random tracks already selected in order to say “Thank You” for them allowing me to be part of their lives.

Yeah, 2020 has been difficult with Covid taking peoples’ lives, jobs and just overall making this year very difficult to get by, but it was because of the family I have and the friends that i keep in my company that have resulted in me never losing hope.

Helping me, always supportive and encouraging……for for that, I wanted to do something to honor their friendship and thank them for everything they do.

                                       Full track listing: ===========Game – Composer – Title – Company========

1.) Sakura Wars 2020 – Kohei Tanaka (Vocals by Maaya Uchida) – “Onna!! Matsuri no kokoroiki (Woman!! The Spirit of the Festival/Hatsuho’s Theme) – December 12, 2019 – Sega CS2 R&D/SEGA – PS4

2.) OneShot – Casey Gu – “Eleventh Hour“ – June 30, 2014 – Future Cat/Degica – Windows PC, macOS & Linux

Joe Walker – Super Mario 64 – Koji Kondo – “File Select, Bowser’s Road & Staff Roll” – June 23, 1996 – Nintendo – Nintendo 64 The Backlog: https://www.youtube.com/user/PKBloggin

3.) Drakengard 3 (Drag-On Dragoon 3) – Keiichi Okabe (Vocals by Emi Evans) – “The Upcoming Battle/Zophiel“ – December 19, 2013 – Access Games/Square Enix – PS3

4.) Off – Alias Conrad Coldwood – “Pepper Steak” – June 5, 2008 – Unproductive Fun Time/Mortis Ghost & Martin Georis – Windows PC & macOS X

Kyle Mesce – Mother 3 – Shogo Sakai – “Name These Children, Natural Killer Cyborg & Sorrowful Tazmily – April 20, 2006 – Brownie Brown & HAL laboratory/Nintendo – GBA (Japan Only) Official: https://www.kmescecomposes.com/ Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/sorven92 In Blood the gothic romance & lovecraftian visual novel Kickstarter: https://www.kickstarter.com/projects/scribble-games/in-blood-a-visual-novel-game?ref=7hxpfm Wwise Adventure Game: https://www.audiokinetic.com/courses/wwise251/?source=wwise251&id=Wwise_Adventure_Game

5.) Sonic Forces – Tomoya Ohtani – “Arsenal Pyramid, Battle with Death Queen (Battle with Zavok Remix) & Luminous Forest” – November 7, 2017 – Sonic Team/SEGA – Windows PC, Nintendo Switch, PS4 & Xbox One

6.) 1001 Spikes – Tadd Nuznov (RushJet1) – “Ninja Aban/Ninja Aban (key ver.)“ – June 3, 2014 – 8bits Fanatics/Nicalis – Linux, Windows PC, Nintendo 3DS, Mac OS X, PS4, PlayStation Vita, Wii U & Xbox One

Robert Menes – Mega Man 8 – Shusaku Uchiyama – “Cloud Palace (Tengu Man stage), Snowy City (Frost Man stage) & Wily Stage 1” – December 17, 1996 – Capcom – Sega Saturn & Sony Playstation Notsalgia Road Trip: https://nostalgiaroadtrip.com/ Support him on Ko-Fi: https://ko-fi.com/lambdacalculus

7.) Skellboy – Björn Schellin – “Skeleton Hop Clop “ – January 30, 2020 – Umaiki Games – Windows PC & Nintendo Switch

8.) Princess Remedy in a World of Hurt – Stefan Hurtig & Mattias Hakulinen – “Action & Skyboss – December 12, 2014 – Ludosity Interactive – Windows PC

Christina Walker – Earthbound (Mother 2) – Keiichi Suzuki & Hirokazu Tanaka – “Kraken of the Sea, Boy Meets Girl & Apple Kid’s Theme” – August 27, 1994 – Ape & HAL Laboratory/Nintendo – SNES seawalkerdesign: https://linktr.ee/seawalkerdesign

9.) YIIK: A Postmodern RPG – Andrew Allanson, Michael Kelly, Calum Bowen, Toby Fox, Hiroki Kikuta, Jose Alfaro, Tony Manfredonia, Paul Weinstein (Chipocrite), Steve Lakawicz, Mika Maruyama, Ken Snyder & Tomohisa Kuramitsu (Baiyon) – “Into the Mind, Wah-Wah Battle, Syncopated Battle & Krow Battle Theme – January 17, 2019 – Ackk Studios/Ysbryd Games – Windows PC, MacOS, PS4, PS Vita & Nintendo Switch

10.) Nights of Azure – Kazuki Yanagawa, Daisuke Achiwa & Hayato Asano – “Sad Vampire (Colosseum Battle) & Edge of Apocalypse (Mistral Boss)” – October 1, 2015 – Gust/Koei Tecmo – PS3, PS4, PlayStation Vita & Windows PC

Alyssa Menes – Kid Icarus: Uprising – Motoi Sakuraba, Noriyuki Iwadare & Yuzo Koshiro – “Chapter 8:The Space-Pirate Ship, Chapter 20:Destroyed Skyworld, Chapter 15:Aurum Island & Chapter 6:Dark Pit“ – March 22, 2012 – Project Sora & Sora Ltc./Nintendo – Nintendo 3DS Official Site: http://portfolio.acmenesmusic.com/ Soundcloud: https://soundcloud.com/acmenes Bandcamp: https://acmenes.bandcamp.com/album/meet-the-light

11.) Punch Club – Pitanime & DaVince – “Tropical Island, Russia & Prison” – January 9, 2016 – Lazy Bear Games/tinyBuild – Windows PC, Mac OS X, iOS, Android, Nintendo 3DS, PS4, Xbox One & Nintendo Switch

12.) Devil May Cry 5: Special Edition – Casey Edwards (Vocals by Victor Borba) – “Bury the Light (Vergil’s battle theme)” – November 10, 2020 – Capcom – Xbox Series X/S & PS5

Edgar Velasco: @MoonSpiderHugs Youtube: www.youtube.com/c/NostalgiaRoadTripChannel Official Site: nostalgiaroadtrip.com/ FaceBook: www.facebook.com/groups/nostalgiaroadtrip/ Official Twitter: @NRoadTripCast

[arthur-erickson-officialblog]

Oberlander landscape credits corrected

- Letter to the press from Arthur Erickson Architects alumni, who worked on projects incorrectly credited to Cornelia Oberlander

June 21, 2021 

To writers and contributors to the press about Cornelia Hahn Oberlander:

The Cultural Landscape Foundation, Washington Post, New York Times, Susan Herrington, Arthur Erickson Foundation, Canadian Centre for Architecture, Globe & Mail, Azure, Genius Loci, Trevor Boddy, Judy Oberlander. 

This fall The Cultural Landscape Foundation will award the prestigious and inaugural Cornelia Hahn Oberlander International Landscape Architecture Prize (known as the Oberlander Prize). We fully expect extensive coverage by the press community to celebrate this award - about the recipient and also about Cornelia. 

In that context, those of us who worked in senior positions at Arthur Erickson Architects for many years wish to clarify some design elements that have been covered in books, recent articles and broadcasts. In the examples below the choice of words or phrases lead to the wrong impression about where credit belongs. We want to emphasize that we all worked in a collaborative ethos of architects and consultants. Cornelia would undoubtedly agree. 

‘3 Block Provincial Government Complex’ (‘Robson Square’) in Vancouver: 

Arthur Erickson Architects 

Overall Concept: 

Cornelia joined the design team after the overall design concept for the 3-block complex had been established, including the rooftop park and water features. 

We have read these kinds of misleading statements: 

-  “.. 3 block-long roof garden at Robson Square, which she designed to link Erickson’s Law Court building to the Vancouver Art Gallery.” (ref.1) 

-  “Her Robson Square development in Vancouver ... she put an entire park atop the Provincial Government Complex ....” (ref.2) 

Arthur Erickson writes: 

-  “Having recently returned from my first tour of China, I thought Vancouver’s street planting could be more generous ... we insisted that twin allées be used to define the new government precinct.” (ref.3) 

-  “We spent months analyzing the government’s departmental layouts to ... support a public garden on its roof.” (ref.3) 

-  “Landscaping has an essential role in the architecture of the provincial government building (block 61)”. (ref.3)

Cornelia’s strengths came to the fore in the landscape design development, including plant material selections and technical aspects of rooftop landscaping. 

Stramps: 

Cornelia did not design the ‘Stramps’. We had specifically discussed this with Cornelia, and she agreed that the architectural team created this hybrid solution. Somehow the story grew that she was their creator. 

We have read these kinds of misleading statements: 

-  “She picked up a felt-tipped pen and drew a ‘goat-path’ ... and the stramps of Robson Square were born.” (ref.4) 

-  “ ... with ... Arthur Erickson, she created ... by way of an ingenious series of gently graded granite (they are concrete) stair ramps that Ms. Oberlander called ‘stramps’ (she was inspired by goat paths). (ref.5) 

-  Wikipedia listing of Cornelia’s ‘Important Works’ “Robson Square landscape architecture and stramps.” (ref.6) 

Arthur Erickson writes:

“Grand stairs that connect each level of the complex are crossed rather cunningly by ramps. Developed through much thought and study, these unique devices were dubbed ‘Stramps’ by the design team.” (ref.3)   

Museum of Anthropolgy, University of BC, Vancouver, Arthur Erickson Architects 

Siting/Landscape Design: 

The degree of credit for the concept and siting of the museum needs to be clarified. Arthur Erickson had the inspiration of the site before the building was designed. This timing was well before Cornelia’s involvement in the landscaping of this project. Cornelia’s input was focused on the selection of plant materials and later the realization of the large water feature, to realize Erickson’s concept. 

We have read these kinds of misleading statements: 

-  “... building is nestled in an open meadow of native plants, the building looking as if it had sprouted fully formed from Ms. Oberlander’s landscape.” (ref.5) 

-  “... where she created an 11-acre landscape evoking the Indigenous Haida people ....” (ref.1) 

Arthur Erickson writes: 

- “ The cliff prospect, taking off over the sea, immediately suggested the possibility of creating the illusion of a narrow inlet ... the vision recalled a photograph of a Haida village I had seen years before ... I expressed this symbolic village in a model of the site. Thus, before we started planning the museum, we had a vision of the landscaping.” (ref.3) 

Our primary motivation in writing this letter is to encourage writers of future articles and other presenters to emphasize the collaborative design process and convey an understanding that attributing major building siting concepts and landscape design solutions to Cornelia alone does not correctly portray either our team efforts or Arthur Erickson’s central role in choreographing those efforts. 

These concerns in no way distract from our great appreciation for Cornelia’s thorough research and landscape design development expertise that she brought to all of her projects, and our full recognition of the enormous contributions Cornelia has made to landscape architecture. We look forward to the awarding of the Oberlander Prize. 

Thank you for your consideration. 

Arthur Erickson Architects alumni:

Alan Bell, AEA Associate, Robson Square planner.

Rainer Fassler, AIBC ret., AEA Associate, Law Courts project architect.         

Eva Matsuzaki, PP/FRAIC, Architect AIBC, AEAAssociate, Robson Square architect. 

Nick Milkovich, FRAIC, Architect AIBC, AEA Associate, Museum of Anthropology and Law Courts architect. 

Jim Wright, AIBC ret., AEA Associate, Robson Square project architect.                                                       

References: 

1. Washington Post, June 5, 2021, Adrian Higgins.  2. CHO Honorary degree citation, Dalhousie University, 2008.  3. “Arthur Erickson” book, 1988, Arthur Erickson, pp. 84,112,115,117.  4. “Cornelia Oberlander, Making the Modern Landscape” book, 2018, Susan Herrington, pp.     134, 184.  5. New York Times, June 9, 2021, Penelope Green.  6. Wikipedia, Cornelia Hahn Oberlander, Important Works.

[dragon-above]

Bestiary Elite - Lady Evelia ir’Larna

The young, beautiful half-elf before you wears a stunning glamerweave gown of blue and black, which glows as if bathed in the multicoloured moonlight of Eberron. At her hips, a pair of ceremonial Aerenal blades is buckled to a silver belt. Her features are perfect, her smile divine, and her eyes calculating. She carries herself with the grace and arrogance of a noble.

Lady Evelia ir’Larna (CR 11) Female masque sorcerer 4/ranger 2 LE Medium aberration (shapechanger) Init: +5; Senses darkvision 60ft; Spot +14, Listen +13 Languages Common, Elven, Dwarven, Halfling, Gnome =========================================== AC 19, touch 16, flat-footed 14 hp 67 (11 HD) Fort +7, Ref +10, Will +10 Resist spell resistance 15 =========================================== Speed 30ft. (6 squares) Melee 2 short swords +11/+11/+6 (1d6+1/19-20) or Melee slam +12 (1d4+1) or Ranged dagger +13/+8 (1d4+1/19-20) Base Atk +7; Grp +8 Atk Options favoured enemy humanoid (shapechanger); Two-weapon Fighting Special Actions aspect of insanity, spell-like abilities, spells, wild empathy +9 Sorcerer Spells Known (CL 4th): 0 (6/day) – dancing lights, detect magic, mage hand, message, read magic, touch of fatigue (DC 17) 1st (8/day) – hypnotism (DC 18), color spray, ray of enfeeblement 2nd (5/day) – invisibility (DC 19) Spell-like Abilities (CL 9th): 5/day – ghost sound (DC 17), prestidigitation; 3/day – charm person (DC 18), detect thoughts, minor image Combat Gear masterwork dagger, masterwork short sword x2, potion of cure moderate wounds x2, potion of cure serious wounds =========================================== Abilities Str 13, Dex 20, Con 15, Int 18, Wis 14, Cha 24 SQ change face, devour thoughts Feats Ability Focus (aspect of insanity), Alertness, Negotiator, Track (B), Two-weapon Fighting (B), Weapon Finesse Skills Bluff +19, Concentration +12, Diplomacy +19, Disguise +30, Knowledge (arcana) +10, Knowledge (nobility and royalty) +12, Sense Motive +8, Spellcraft +11 Possessions combat gear plus feather fall talisman, Clebdecher glamerweave noble’s outfit (with jewellery), identification papers with portrait, ring of protection +1 =========================================== Aspect of Insanity (Su): As a move action, a masque can reveal its true face to break the mind of any creature that can clearly see it. All creatures within 30ft that meet the masque's gaze must succeed on a DC 18 Will save or take 1d4 points of Wisdom drain and become confused, as the spell, for 2d4 days. All creatures are automatically shaken, and this effect ends 1d4 rounds after the masque hides its natural face. A creature that succeeds on its save is not subject to the wisdom damage or confusion effects of this ability from the same masque for 24 hours. This is a mind-affecting gaze ability. The save DC is Charisma-based. Change Face (Su): +10 racial bonus to all Disguise checks when the face is visible. This bonus has been worked into the statistics block above. Creatures that see through the disguise using a true seeing ability are subject to the Aspect of Insanity special ability. Devour Thoughts (Su): Whenever any creature fails a Spot check to foil the masque’s disguise, all other creatures are subject to a cumulative –2 penalty to Sense Motive and Spot checks made to see past that masque’s disguise and lies as long as it maintains that identity. =========================================== Hook “Tell me a bit about yourself.” To the average Sharn citizen, Lady Evelia is nothing more than a spoilt young socialite with far too much time on her hands. To the well-informed citizen, Evelia is a well-connected half-elf who loves to have people wrapped around her little finger. Indeed, most of these facts are true, though no one knows of the terrible creature that hides behind innocent façade, at least as far as Evelia knows. Like most masques, Evelia created her primary persona through masterful manipulation and espionage. Almost three decades ago, Evelia, then known as Falaratis Hai, disguised herself as a friendly, caring nurse loyal to the ir’Larna family. Soon, she had constructed an elaborate plan to bring a new child into the household. Sure enough, three years later, Daskan ir’Larna married the elf Saevia Shaethorias, and Saevia gave birth to a child they named Evelia. The couple moved to the Azure district of Skyway, Sharn, and lived happily as a family for many years. On Evelia’s sixteenth birthday, Falaratis put her plans into motion. The masque abducted the girl and trapped and murdered her deep in an ancient Dhakaani tomb in the King's Forest. With the disappearance of the family’s faithful nurse, many concluded that the same nurse had kidnapped Evelia. They were correct, in a sense, but the nurse would never return. Two years later, Falaratis returned to Sharn in the guise of Evelia. She created a host of tales and lies surrounding the past years, using stories of war and torture to explain any apparent personality changes. Soon, the ir’Larna family welcomed their beloved daughter back into the household, unknowing they had just supplied a mastermind of intrigue with the position and resources to carve her legacy into the Sharn underworld. Almost eight years since her return, Falaratis, like most masques, has become so immersed in her primary persona that she considers herself the true Lady Evelia ir’Larna. Although it appears that Evelia has overcome the horrors of her kidnapping and returned to her life as a vain socialite, in fact she is weaving a plot to destroy the expansive criminal network known as the Tyrants. Most masques despise changelings and doppelgangers, and Evelia is no exception. While most masques make a hobby of exposing changelings, Evelia considers it her calling to bring their organisation crashing down. Though she hates the changelings, she enjoys using them as pawns in her schemes. She has several changeling agents in the Tyrants, though they are unaware of the schemes in which they play a part. Evelia also has connections with Daask, the Boromars and House Tarkanan, which she exploits in order to learn more about the doppelgangers that run the organisation and put pressure on them from all angles. Evelia can be a patron or an enemy to PCs. As a patron, she may appeal to them for help bringing down the evil organisation of the Tyrants, or to help expose changelings in important political positions in the city. As an enemy, she may send assassins after changeling characters in the party, or punish all the characters for associating with changelings. Starting Attitude: Indifferent Modifiers: Party is renowned for killing or exposing of changelings (+6); presents expensive gift (+2); has criminal connections other than with the Tyrants (+2); includes a member of one of the Sixty families of Sharn (+2); has no level of fame (-2); knows of her true form (-2); includes a changeling (-4); has connections with the Tyrants (-6) If Hostile: Orders guards to remove the PCs from her sight, and calls in a favour to have the group dealt with If Unfriendly: Ends the conversation quickly and asks the PCs to leave If Indifferent: Acts friendly, moves the conversation towards matters of politics. If nothing can be gained from the PCs, she ends the meeting quickly If Friendly: Talks enthusiastically about the groups exploits and will answer basic questions about her adopted persona, but will not reveal any of her shadier dealings If Helpful: Open about her adopted persona, and gladly helps with resources if the group shares her goals (sinister or otherwise). May invite well-known groups to accompany her to the next gala

[dawnchari-blog]

Intensely blue imperial jasper rounds, wire wrapped in a herringbone pattern, from which faceted aquamarine squares are suspended are the components of Azura, an highly hued, strikingly beautiful design.

- Herringbone wire-wrapped azure blue imperial jasper round - Aquamarine faceted square, blue/green - Silver plate wire, findings and French ear wires - A statement-making 3 inches length

Jasper has been revered as a gemstone since ancient times, and is mentioned in the Bible. Although it is a relatively common stone, and comes in many different colors, it was considered a highly valuable stone in ancient times. These particular jaspers remind me of what the Earth looks like from space - a deep blue, with lighter colored striation.

Aquamarine, the March birthstone, has a deep connection to the ocean. Aquamarine is not only prized for it beauty and protective qualities, it is a stone of courage.

https://www.etsy.com/listing/518796225/azura?ref=shop_home_active_1

[ranjithnirmamidi-blog]

Artificial Intelligence (AI)Artificial Intelligence, or AI, has already gained tons of murmur in recent years, however, it continues to be a trend to observe as a result of its effects on however we have a tendency to live, work and play area unit solely within the early stages. additionally, different branches of AI have developed, together with Machine Learning, that we’ll come in below. AI refers to computers systems engineered to mimic human intelligence and perform tasks like recognition of pictures, speech or patterns and deciding. AI do these tasks faster and additional accurately than human beings.AI has been everywhere since 1956 is already broadly speaking used. In fact, 5 out of 6 Americans use AI services in one kind or another each day, together with navigation apps, streaming services, smartphone personal assistants, ride-sharing apps, home personal assistants, and good home devices. additionally, to customer use, AI is employed to schedule trains to evaluate assess business risk, predict maintenance, and improve energy potency, among several different money-saving tasks. AI is one a part of what we have a tendency to talk too broadly speaking as automation, and automation could be a hot topic thanks to potential job loss. consultants say automation can eliminate seventy-three million additional jobs by 2030. However, automation is making jobs yet as eliminating them, particularly within the field of AI: Pundits predict that jobs in AI can range twenty-three million by 2020. Jobs are created in development, programming, testing, support, and maintenance, to call a number of. AI creator is one such job. Some say it’ll presently rival knowledge someone in want for virtuoso professionals. To learn additional concerning potential jobs in AI, examine building a career in AI or why you must earn Associate in Nursing AI certification.

Machine Learning

Machine Learning may be a set of AI. With Machine Learning, computers are programmed to be told to try to one thing they’re not programmed to do: They virtually learn by discovering patterns and insights from knowledge. In general, we’ve got 2 styles of learning, supervised and unattended.While Machine Learning may be a set of AI, we tend to even have subsets inside the domain of Machine Learning, as well as neural networks, linguistic communication process (NLP), and deep learning. every one of those subdivisions offers a chance for specializing in a very course field that may solely grow.Machine Learning is a pace being deployed all told styles of industries, making an enormous demand for hot professionals. The Machine Learning market is achieved to grow to $8.81 billion by 2022. Machine Learning applications are used for knowledge analytics, data processing, and pattern recognition. On the patron finish, Machine Learning powers net search results, time period ads, and network intrusion detection, to call solely some of the various tasks it will do. In addition to finishing infinite tasks on our behalf, it’s generating jobs. Machine Learning jobs rank among the highest rising jobs on LinkedIn, with virtually 2000 job listings denote. And these jobspay well: In 2017, the median wage for a machine learning engineer was $106,225. Machine Learning jobs embody engineers, developers, researchers, and knowledge scientists. Learn a lot of concerning Machine Learning.Check out this video that talks concerning 2018’s high ten Technology Trends and compare the similarities to the present list or scroll on to continue reading concerning what’s future for 2019:

Robotic Process Automation or RPA

Like AI and Machine Learning, Robotic method Automation, or RPA, is another technology that’s automating jobs. RPA is that the use of software package to modify business processes like deciphering applications, process transactions, addressing knowledge, and even replying to emails. RPA automates repetitive tasks that individuals accustomed to doing. These don’t seem to be simply the menial tasks of a low-paid worker: up to forty-five % of the activities we tend to do will be automatic, as well as the work of monetary managers, doctors, and CEOs.Although Forrester analysis estimates RPA automation can threaten the keep of 230 million or a lot of information staff, or roughly nine % of the worldwide manpower, RPA is additionally making new jobs whereas sterilization existing jobs. McKinsey finds that but five % of occupations will be all automatic, however regarding sixty % will be part automatic.For you, because the IT skilled wanting to the longer term and attempting to know technology trends, RPA offers lots of career opportunities, as well as a developer, project manager, business analyst, answer designer and advisor. And these jobs pay well. SimplyHired.com says the typical RPA wage is $73,861, however that’s the typical compiled from salaries for junior-level developers up to senior answer architects, with the highest ten % earning over $141,000 annually.If you’re inquisitive about following a career in RPA, the Introduction to Robotic method Automation (RPA) course is that the place to begin.

Blockchain

Although the general public considers blockchain technology in regard to cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin, blockchain offers security that’s helpful in several alternative ways that. within the simplest of terms, blockchain may be delineated as the knowledge you’ll solely increase, not subtract from or amendment. thus, the term “chain” as a result of you’re creating a series of knowledge. Not having the capability to vary the earlier blocks is what makes it thus secure. additionally, blockchains square measure consensus-driven, as explained during this Forbes article, thus nobody entity will head of the info. With blockchain, you wouldn’t like a trustworthy third-party to supervise or validate transactions.This heightened security is why blockchain is employed for the cryptocurrency, and why it will play a big role in protective info like personal medical knowledge. Blockchain might be accustomed to drastically improve the worldwide offer chain, as delineated here, in addition as defending assets like art and reality.the use of blockchain technology will increase, thus too will the demand for hot professionals. in this regard, we tend to square measure already behind. in line with Techcrunch.com, blockchain-related jobs square measure the second-fastest growing class of jobs, with fourteen job openings for each one blockchain developer. A blockchain developer makes a specialty of developing and implementing design and solutions mistreatment blockchain technology. the typical yearly wage of a blockchain developer is $130,000.The job of a developer isn’t the sole one on the market within the blockchain area, however. Employers are searching for software system engineers, consultants and project managers. Jobs square measure on the market at money establishments, however conjointly in retail and attention, and shortly in all probability producing in addition.

Edge Computing

Formerly a technology trend to look at, cloud computing has become thought, with major players AWS (Amazon internet Services), Microsoft Azure and Google Cloud dominating the market. The adoption of cloud computing remains growing, as a lot of and a lot of businesses migrate to a cloud answer. however, it’s not the rising technology. Edge is.as in a shift, cloud computing, and move for the sting.As the amount of knowledge, we’re handling continues to extend, we’ve realized the shortcomings of cloud computing in some things. Edge computing is intended to assist solve a number of those issues as how to bypass the latency caused by cloud computing and obtaining information to a data center for a process. For this reason, edge computing is wont to method time-sensitive information in remote locations with restricted or no property to a centralized location. In the indicated things, edge computing will act like mini datacenters. Edge computing can increase as use the net of Things (IoT) devices will increase. By 2022, the worldwide edge computing market is predicted to succeed in $6.72 billion. As with any growing market, this can produce job demand, primarily for package engineers.

Virtual Reality and Augmented Reality

Virtual Reality (VR) immerses the user in Surroundings whereas Augment Reality (AR) enhances their surroundings. though VR has primarily been used for play up to now, it’s conjointly been used for coaching, like Virtual Ship, a simulation code accustomed train U.S. Navy, Army and Coast warship captains. the popular Pokémon Go is an example of Augmented Reality.Both have huge potential in coaching, diversion, education, marketing, and even rehabilitation when an injury. Either may well be accustomed train doctors to try and do surgery, provide depository goers deeper expertise, enhance theme parks, or perhaps enhance promoting, like this dope goop bus shelter.According to a piece of writing at Monster.com, the demand for job candidates with VR information is up thirty-seven %, however, the potential workers are in brief offer. That demand can solely increase. There are major players within the VR market, like Google, Samsung, and sensory receptor, however, lots of startups are forming and that they are going to be hiring—or making an attempt to, in light-weight of the shortage. obtaining started in VR doesn’t need tons of specialized information. Basic programming skills and a forward-thinking attitude will land employment, though alternative employers are going to be searching for optics as a skill-set and hardware engineers additionally.

Cyber Security

Cybersecurity may not seem to be associate rising technology, providing it’s been around for a jiffy; however, it’s evolving even as different technologies area unit. That’s partial as a result of threats area unit perpetually new. The malevolent hackers United Nations agency try to illicitly access knowledge don’t seem to be attending to quit any time shortly, and that they can still notice ways that to urge through even the toughest security measures. It’s additionally partially as a result of new technology is being custom-made to boost security. 3 of these advancements area unit hardware authentication, cloud technology, and deep learning, in step with one knowledgeable.Another adds knowledge loss hindrance and behavioral analytics to the list. As long as we’ve hackers, we are going to have cybersecurity as associate rising technology as a result of it’ll perpetually evolve to defend against those hackers.As proof of the sturdy wants for cybersecurity professionals, the amount of cybersecurity jobs is growing thrice quicker than different technical school jobs. However, we are falling short once it involves filling those jobs. As a result, it’s foretold that we are going to have three.5 million empty cybersecurity jobs by 2021.Various cybersecurity jobs pay 6-figure incomes, and roles will change from moral hacker to security engineer to Chief Security Officer, giving a bright career path for somebody United Nations agency needs to urge into and stick to this domain.

8.Internet of Things

Although it seems like a game you’d play on your smartphone, the net of Things (IoT) is that the future. several “things” area unit currently being designed with wireless fidelity property, that means they will be connected to the Internet—and to every different. Hence, the net of Things, or IoT. IoT permits devices, home appliances, cars and for a lot of to be connected to an exchange knowledge over the net. And we’re solely within the starting stages of IoT: the amount of IoT devices reached eight.4 billion in 2017 is expected to succeed in thirty billion devices by 2020.As shoppers, we’re already victimization and benefitting from IoT. we are able to lock our doors remotely if we have a tendency to forget to after we leave for work and heat up our ovens on our means work from home, all whereas trailing our fitness on our Fitbits and hailing a ride with Lyft. however, businesses even have a lot of to realize currently and within the close to future. The IoT will modify higher safety, potency and higher cognitive process for businesses as knowledge are collected and analyzed. It will modify prophetical maintenance, speed up treatment, improve client service, and provide edges we have a tendency to haven’t even unreal, however. However, against this boon within the development and adoption of IoT, consultants say not enough IT professionals have gotten trained for IoT jobs. a piece at ITProToday.com says we’ll like two hundred,000 a lot of IT staff that aren’t however within the pipeline, which a survey of engineers found twenty-five.7 % believe inadequate ability levels to be the industry’s biggest obstacle to growth.For someone fascinated by a career in IoT, which means simple entry into the sector if you’re impelled, with a variety of choices for obtaining started. Skills required embrace IoT security, cloud computing data, knowledge analytics, automation, understanding of embedded systems, device data, to call solely a couple of. After all, it’s the net of Things, and people things area unit several and varied, that means the abilities required area unit in addition.Although technologies area unit rising and evolving all around the United States, these eight domains provide promising career potential currently and for the predictable future. and every one eight area unit tormented by a shortage of experienced staff, that means the time is true for you to decide on one, get trained, and find on board at the 1st stages of technology, positioning you for fulfillment currently and within the future.

[lndslorepuzzler]

Under Deepspace 01: To Begin, pt 01-09

01: Deepspace Hunter: FMC goes through the graduation ceremony for Deepspace Hunters; she meets her coworker Tara. Her Evol is unstable due to a childhood injury/Wanderer attack, though it is recognized as Anhaunsen Class, Resonance. This isn't a surprise to her.

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02: Mysterious Light: FMC and Tara go into the abandoned research base to inspect an abnormal Metaflux explosion. FMC encounters Shen Xinghui, who appears to be injured. The two of them fend off a Wanderer, during which a collar of blue/red light appears and disappears around Shen Xinghui's neck.

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03: COMBAT

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04: Heart Towards Resonance: FMC and Shen Xinghui defeat the Wanderer; Shen Xinghui destroys the protocore. FMC wants to leave; Shen Xinghui says they've been trapped in the space. FMC determines that the Wanderers are Luminivores. She speculates that the situation could be a trap set specifically for Shen Xinghui, or that he might be bait instead of prey. ("I'm just a normal hunter. You don't need to look too deeply into it," he says like a lying liar who lies.) In order to defeat/escape the Luminivores, Shen Xinghui and FMC resonate; this involves putting her hand over his heart.

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05: Light Fades: FMC and Shen Xinghui defeat all the Wanderers. FMC realizes she's never experienced an Evol Resonance so strong before. Shen Xinghui asks FMC not to mention him to anyone and shortly thereafter vanishes into thin air. She notes that Shen Xinghui being in the research base likely wasn't a coincidence.

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06: UNICORNS: Upon arriving back at the headquarters, FMC and other recruits are debriefed by Jenna, and are assigned to their departments. Tara goes to Data Analysis under Andrew, and FMC is assigned to Alpha Team under Jenna. They go out to eat in Azure Square. Tara explains how she looks up to Jenna for saving her. FMC flashes back to fourteen years ago, remembers sprinting through the ruined streets, a sharp pain moving into/through her heart. There is a makeshift shelter in sight, and a tiny seedling breaking through the soil. FMC is accosted by a small child (Lucas) who wants her help with something; he offers to give her a full set of Super Hunters AR cards, complete with the limited edition Hunter Lux.

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07: Ripples: Lucas wants FMC to catch a fish for him, but runs off after he gets caught for cheating. Qi Yu appears, and says the fish will only survive a week on land. He's carrying a pamphlet about Hat Island, which is closed due to Wanderer activity. He catches the fish, which he says is a real Flammula from Lemurian legend. FMC gives him the fish to take home, saying she hopes it survives longer with him. Qi Yu leaves before FMC can finish her sentence about Whitesand Bay and at 6:15pm, FMC realizes she's late for her doctor's appointment.

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08: Doctor: FMC goes to Akso Hospital for her check-in with Li Shen. The two of them bicker about her being ten seconds from a no-show; FMC asks if he really needs to be that precise ("I can't believe you're just sitting there and counting down. What are you, a ticking time bomb or something?") FMC speculates that his "vacation" was actually a trip to the Arctic to work on a secret project; Li Shen tells her not to be nosy. He checks her heart; she hopes he hasn't noticed anything is off. They banter a bit, but things end amicably.

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09: Rainfall Curtain: At home, FMC contemplates her first day as a Deepspace Hunter. She gets a call from Caleb, her childhood friend who is a member of the Deepspace Aviation Administration. She tells him not to jinx himself. FMC looks out into the rain and sees a gigantic, quasi-mechanical looking red eye staring back at her. It vanishes in an instant.

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1. It's especially interesting that FMC refers to Li Shen as a 'ticking time bomb,' especially in regards to what we find out re: his Evol, and his desire to be able to stop himself 'when (he) becomes a threat to her.' 2. The eye FMC sees in 09 is almost identical to the eye seen in The Nest, and is the colors associated with Qin Che.

[dragon-above]

Periplanus of the Sky

Periplanus of the Sky Medium Fey (Good) Hit Dice: 9d6+18 (49 hp) Initiative: +7 (+3 Dex, +4 Improved Initiative) Speed: 30 ft. (6 squares), fly 80 ft. (perfect) Armour Class: 14 (+3 Dex, +1 natural), touch 13, flat-footed 11 Base Attack/Grapple: +4/+6 Attack: Azure blade +7 melee (1d8+4) Full Attack: Azure blade +7 melee (1d8+4) Space/Reach: 5ft./5ft. Special Attacks: Azure blade, prismatic radiance, call mist servant Special Qualities: Cloud form, low-light vision, manifest zone dependency, mist veil, spell resistance 19 Saves: Fort +5, Ref +9, Will +8 Abilities: Str 14, Dex 17, Con 15, Int 11, Wis 14, Cha 17 Skills: Diplomacy +15, Heal +14, Hide +15, Knowledge (the planes) +12, Listen +14, Spot +14 Feats: Dodge, Flyby Attack, Improved Initiative, Mobility ========================================= Environment: Syranian manifest zone Organization: Solitary Challenge Rating: 9 Treasure: None Alignment: Always neutral good Advancement: 10-18 HD (Medium); 19-27 HD (Large) Level Adjustment: -

The androgynous, human-like creature before you has silvery skin, golden eyes and a pair of luxurious feathered wings. Its long hair appears as cloud, wrapping around and concealing much of the creature’s form. It grasps a shimmering, blue longsword in one hand. The periplanus of the sky, also known as the perisyris, is one of the few truly righteous creatures native to the material plane. As creatures bound to Syrania, the Azure Sky, these periplani share many of the traits of that plane’s native angels. They seek to destroy evil in their domains, and though they are not generally violent, they will not shy from force if necessary. Although it was the seventh periplanus to be discovered, the perisyris may be the most famous. When the glass tower fell in Sharn, some witnesses claimed to have seen the clouds themselves reach to down to try to support the structure, and others described a beautiful angel circling the structure before it fell. The so called Spirit of Sharn was a popular tale for many years, but since no more sightings have been recorded, the tales have slowly died. The absence of the Spirit of Sharn has puzzled many, but popular theories cite that it has been destroyed and forced into hiding by the Radiant Idols, or that it has become so ashamed with the evil that has consumed the city that it refuses to show its face again. Combat Perisyris are generally peaceful creatures, but are more than ready to take up the sword when necessary. They will typically finish weak foes with their azure blades, and save their mist servant and prismatic radiance abilities for later in the battle if chances of success are slim. Azure Blade (Su): As a move action, a perisyris can manifest a blade of shimmering, blue light. This weapon acts as a +1 brilliant energy longsword, and can be dismissed as a free action. The weapon instantly disappears if the periplanus is slain or knocked unconscious. Call Mist Servant (Su): Once per day a perisyris can call the skies to its aid, supernaturally awakening the clouds to apply magical force. This ability acts like telekinesis, as the spell, with a caster level of 15th. Cloud Form (Ex): A perisyris can take the form of a cloud at will as a standard action. This ability is similar to the gaseous form spell, except that the periplanus retains its own fly speed. Mist Veil (Ex): A perisyris’ body is continually surrounded by mists, which grants the periplanus concealment (20% miss chance). Manifest Zone Dependency (Ex): Every periplanus of the sky is bound to a Syranian manifest zone, and must never stray out of its boundaries. Any who do begin to sicken and fade, taking 2d6 points of Constitution damage each hour they remain outside the zone. Prismatic Radiance (Su): Once per day, a perisyris can release a burst of multi-chromatic light. All creatures within 30ft. of the periplanus are affected. Roll 1d8 to determine the colour of light that strikes the each creature. The effects of each colour are given below. The save DC against each effect is 17, and is Charisma-based.

d8 Colour Effect 1 Red 6d6 points of fire damage (Reflex half) 2 Orange 6d6 points acid damage (Reflex half) 3 Yellow 6d6 points electricity damage (Reflex half) 4 Green 1d6 points of Constitution damage (Fortitude negates) 5 Blue Turned to stone for 2d4 rounds (Fortitude negates) 6 Indigo 1d6 points of Wisdom damage (Will negates) 7 Violet Teleported 2d6 x 10ft. in a random direction (Will negates) 8 - Struck by two rays; roll twice more, ignoring any “8” results.

[dragon-above]

Chillis

Chillis Tiny Fey Hit Dice: 2d6+2 (9hp) Initiative: +6 (+6 Dex) Speed: 30ft (6 squares), climb 40ft Armour Class: 18 (+2 size, +6 Dex), touch 18, flat-footed 12 Base Attack/Grapple: +1/-10 Attack: Sting +9 melee (1d2-3 plus poison) Full Attack: Sting +9 melee (1d2-3 plus poison) Space/Reach: 2-1/2ft./0ft. Special Attacks: Posion, spell-like abilities, great leap, azure sky Special Qualities: Low-light vision, damage reduction 5/cold iron Saves: Fort +1, Ref +9, Will +4 Abilities: Str 5, Dex 23, Con 13, Int 10, Wis 13, Cha 14 Skills: Balance +11, Bluff +7, Climb +12, Hide +14, Jump +12, Listen +6, Spot +6 Feats: Weapon Finesse ========================================= Environment: Sharn, City of Towers Organization: Solitary or family (2-6) Challenge Rating: 2 Treasure: Standard Alignment: Usually chaotic good Advancement: 3-4 HD (Tiny) Level Adjustment: -

A small creature similar to a tiny halfling child with almost perfect features stands before you. Its fingers seem unusually long, and a tail uncurls from beneath its clothes. Chillis are unusual fey tied to the Syranian manifest zone based around Sharn. In many ways they resemble halfling children, thoug their tail and long, claw-like fingers give the game away. Mischievous and playful, the chillis gather in small groups to play pranks on unsuspecting citizens, particularly in the upper wards and Skyway. Amazingly agile and quick, the chillis climb and jump among the towers with grace and accuracy. Chillis often find homes among the spires of the towers, sometimes sharing nesting sites with spiretop dragons and sometimes forming small communities of their own. These communities never consist of more than half a dozen chillis, and have no hierarchical structure. This chillis have no way of growing their own food, so they most often steal from the market places dotted across the city. The chillis are mostly kind of heart, and so they will repay the merchants what they owe with subtle deeds so they need not reveal their presence. Combat A chillis will usually attempt to flee if attacked, they do not like to fight and hate physical combat. If forced into a tight spot, a chillis will attack with its sting-tipped tail. A chillis will use its mobility and spell-like abilities to escape or disable an opponent. Azure Sky (Su): When two chillis come together they can combine their supernatural tie to Syrania to amazing effect. Once per day as a standard action, two adjacent chillis can creature a burst of raw Syranian power that effects all evil creatures within 30ft. Evil creatures must make a Fortitude save DC 20 or become stunned for 2d4 rounds and blinded for 1d4 days. Poison (Ex): Injury, Fortitude DC 12, initial and secondary damage 1d4 Dex. The save DC is Constitution-based. Spell-like abilities: 3/day - levitate, invisibility (self only), flare, jump, mage hand, feather fall; 1/day - color spray, glitterdust Great Leap (Su): Three times per day, while within the Sharn manifest zone, a chillis can gain a +40 bonus to a single jump check. Skills: A  chillis gains a +10 racial bonus to climb and jump checks. A chillis can take a 10 on a climb check even when rushed or threatened.