Farewell card messagesc

Went to Peru this April for a bucket list trip and as it is also on a lot of other people’s lists, I thought I’d share our experiences doing a full Belmond tour (hotels, private guides, museum/site/MP tickets, transportation). When researching for the trip, I had seen plenty of reviews on the individual properties but not much on their “journeys” so hopefully this is exhaustive but not too exhausting. Usually I plan my own trips and like to do a mix of properties rather than stay with one brand, but since we wanted to stay at the various Belmond offerings, it made sense to us to just do the package.
4 travelers (2 couples, all in our thirties)
Time frame: Eight days in April including international travel, booked in February (so short notice)
Day 1: Arrived in Lima late at night. Word of caution at the baggage claim - we knew we were meeting our Belmond rep and had been sent a diagram of where to meet him, which was a good thing, as there are people trawling the baggage claim that will say they are from the various hotels and try to take your luggage out for you (for a tip). They’re not officially associated with the hotel, so use their service at your own risk! Once we met our rep, we were promptly whisked away in a comfortable sprinter van complete with water and snacks, as would be the case for the rest of the trip, and our guide gave a good overview of the city on the way to the hotel, the Belmond Miraflores.
The hotel sits right on the water and is what I would call a classic “city hotel.” Beautiful flower arrangements in the lobby, where we were sat with welcome pisco sours for check in. Stayed in an Ocean View Junior Suite which was comfortable but nothing crazy memorable.
Day 2: Breakfast at the hotel rooftop restaurant. The small pool area is there as well. Great views over the coast. Food was a mix of a short a la carte menu and plenty of buffet options. Service was efficient and very friendly. Post breakfast, we were met in the lobby by our tour guide and driver for the day. Saw multiple sites including the Plaza Mayor, Archbishop’s Palace, the Santo Domingo Convent, and pre-Incan ruins. The best part was definitely the Larco museum. It’s excellently curated, the outdoor space is beautiful, and the exhibits are fascinating (and unique - erotic ceramics???). Appreciated having a guide to take us through the highlights, as sometimes it’s easy to get “museum-ed out” but I could have easily spent more time there. Hopped back to the hotel for a light late lunch. The restaurant downstairs has excellent ceviche. Spent a few hours relaxing and enjoying the view before Maido for dinner. The food is great, the wine pairing and intro of said wines was a bit perfunctory.
Day 3: Breakfast was again delicious and the waiters packed us to go parcels of coca/mint tea leaves for our trip to Cusco. Belmond took care of booking our flight on Latam and we were walked through right up to security. Once we landed and before we really felt the altitude, we were met by our driver and guide for the next few days and whisked away towards the Sacred Valley. Again, plenty of water and snacks on board, wifi, and coca candy for the altitude. Made a stop at Sulca Textiles, which is a small community collective of weavers with a museum of stunning wall weavings, a store with real baby alpaca items (not “maybe alpaca”), and a chance to see and feed the alpacas, llamas, and guacanos! Very memorable for sure and the best spot to load up on gifts. Stopped for a few more photo ops on the way to the Rio Sagrado. The Sacred Valley is filled with expansive, ever changing views and Hugo entertained and educated us on the long history and culture of the area.
The Rio Sagrado is a small, quiet sanctuary that is almost blink and miss the entrance right off the main road. Again we were greeted with a welcome drink and cool towels. The hotel is not big but there are some terraces and they will happily golf cart you around if you need (or in our case, our luggage). Stayed in a Garden Junior Suite. Room had a small balcony area with yoga mat available and while there was no tub, there was a large walk in shower. There is a small bar and quiet restaurant on site. Emphasis on quiet - it was the smallest of all the hotels on the trip, but the food quality was certainly up to par. They warm the beds at turndown with llama water bottles, a very cute touch.
Day 4: Breakfast here seems to alternate between a la carte plus buffet vs strictly a la carte. Hugo met us at our pre-discussed time and off we went to visit Ollantaytambo. There’s a colorful market there that is nice for photos and if you want classic souvenir trinkets but the site itself is the star. The streets there are narrow and crowded and our driver navigated them with ease. Hugo hiked with us to the very top and impressed up with his knowledge and insight. We’re also not stuffy people and he easily navigated both our interest in the culture and also our often bad jokes (with worse ones of his own 😂). For lunch we were treated to a local restaurant up in the mountains where we were the only ones there! I don’t think we would have otherwise found the place but it was a veritable feast that we got to enjoy with our now friends. Post lunch, more impressive tours of Maras and Moray. If you don’t get to go to Central in Lima, Virgilio’s other restaurant Mil is right next to Moray. Back to hotel for relaxing at the bar with drinks and cards and then early dinner…MP was waiting!
Day 5: Did I mention you get to feed the baby alpacas at breakfast? After this must do, we were off back to Ollantaytambo to the train station. If you’re not like us and book reasonably ahead of time, the Belmond Hiram Bingham stops right at the Rio Sagrado and picks you up from there. We took the Vistadome. As you would guess from the name, there’s plenty of windows that stretch above you to take in the Andean views. There’s an open observatory car at the end as well complete with live entertainment. The trip goes by quickly and Hugo came with us on the train. There are luggage restrictions so we left our big bags with our driver, who would bring them to Cusco for us. At the station in Aguas Calientes, the Santuary Lodge has people to take your bags ahead of you, and then you take the bus up to MP proper. Here Hugo worked his magic (he seemed to know people everywhere) and managed to get us on the bus before a huge wedding party. Yes it’s a public bus, but it’s perfectly comfortable and air conditioned. Arrived at the entrance to MP and wow, the Sanctuary Lodge really is RIGHT THERE. They take you to the garden to check in (welcome drinks, towels, the whole enchilada), and you marvel at where you are. The gardens are beautiful and absolutely filled with hummingbirds! Rooms weren’t quite ready so we had the buffet lunch at the hotel. Plenty of choices here. They came and found us at lunch to tell us our rooms were ready. Stayed in a Deluxe Terrace Room. The rooms are…not large and had a tiny bit of a damp smell (this is such a minor thing) but were well stocked (raincoats, souvenir water bottles, bug spray, lotions, massage oils, plenty of snacks and drinks - meals and minibasnacks included here).
Once we had time to freshen up, it was time to see Machu Picchu! Photos don’t do it justice and you will want a guide to get the most out of your experience. Hugo made the site come to life and this time of year, it did not feel crowded at all going later in the day. It also started drizzling when we were leaving, and it was perfect getting to duck right into the hotel, steps away. There’s nothing besides the hotel there so relax at the restaurant bar, have a spa visit, and get ready for dinner. It seemed most everyone there had changed out of hiking gear. Personally, dinner was well executed if the flavors were not my favorite. Take it with a grain of salt as they obviously have to bring everything up from the town.
Day 6: Woke up early to hike Huayna Picchu. The best views of MP were at this time. Hugo hiked “the stairs of death” with us (not nearly as bad as it sounds if you don’t have an extreme fear of heights) and played personal photographer. It’s a very worthwhile hike to get to see MP from a different angle. We got back right at check out time and the hotel was kind enough to let us change/shower in our own room rather than have to use their separate change/shower area. We did another circuit of MP after lunch and then just hung out with Hugo over drinks. The biggest perk of staying at Sanctuary Lodge is having multiple chances to see MP. While it’s beautiful on a gloomy day with the clouds suspended amongst the mountain peaks, it would be sad to travel all that way and never see it while it’s sunny. And weather changes quickly in the mountains!
Had a long bit of travel back through the Sacred Valley by train (if you were only to do the Hiram Bingham one way, it may be better to do it on the way back as it’s nighttime and you can’t enjoy the views), then picked up by car and off all the way back to Cusco.
Stayed at the Palacio Nazarenas in a Studio Suite and it was the best of all the Belmond properties! Right next door to the Belmond Monasterio. It has beautiful courtyard spaces everywhere you look and the rooms are the largest here. They pump oxygen in to help with the altitude. Large bathroom with soaking tub and separate spacious walk in shower. Studio suites have a sitting area inside and a small patio area outside overlooking a courtyard. Large bottles of rum and pisco are included. Got in super late so ordered room service which was delicious.
Day 7: Breakfast was combo buffet and a la carte. Fresh juices and plenty of local produce. The restaurant Mauka overlooks the pristine royal blue pool and it’s a picture perfect setting. Lots of touring around Cusco this day, seeing the main square and cathedral, multiple important sites like Sacsayhuaman, and Quenqo. Hugo really shined here - besides helping us understand the significance of the sites, he knew we were sad about not seeing a vicunya so we did an impromptu stop at another weaving center to see two of the few non-wild vicunyas. He also had arranged “a farewell surprise” for us and one of our party hadn’t been feeling well that day. Hugo checked on him all during our tours and arranged for our driver to pick him up so we could all share one last farewell drink. The Palacio is a gem and I would happily spend many more days here! When we got back to the hotel post shopping and tearful farewells (we actually still keep in touch), we had a personal patio side pisco sour making class with one of the fantastic butlers and enjoyed one of my favorite meals of the trip at Mauka. Pricey, but very very good.
Day 8: Off to Lima again, where we had a long layover, the same Belmond rep who met us initially helped settle us in for the wait before the long trip home!
Belmond Bellini perks (through a TA, they don’t have a personal reward program): Usually $100 hotel credit everywhere we stayed, potential for room upgrades, breakfast every day, welcome note/chocolate. Also a $500 voucher to use for another Belmond trip
Will be looking to do a trip back to Peru at some point to see the Nazca Lines and Lake Titicaca and will not hesitate to use Belmond again, especially to get a few extra days of R&R at the Palacio.
TLDR: If you’re going to Peru for the first time and want to do it chubby luxe, the Belmonds certainly fit the bill and the package deal is worth it for the convenience and the quality of the guides. You won’t have to worry about a thing.
If you’ve read this far, hope this helps and happy travels!

Last Monday I posted a quick and dirty RPG horror story about a pay-to-play campaign. This will be a proper attempt at telling the whole story, from the alluring start to my bitter resignation. Spoilers ahead for the beginning portions of Curse of Strahd. Trigger Warning for bullying and mentions of self-harm.
Mondays and Tuesdays are my guaranteed days off, so that is when I am available to enjoy my TTRPG hobby. Typically I am involved in three or four campaigns a week as either a DM or a player. A year-long campaign I was running reached its finale in the middle of March. When that ended and the time slot opened up, I wanted to be a player for a while. So I started looking in all the usual places; Discord servers I am a part of, StartPlaying ads, LFG threads, and the Roll20 boards. I indiscriminately applied for free-to-play and pay-to-play games at 1 PM on Mondays and ultimately got invited to join a Curse of Strahd campaign. I’ve experienced good and bad games in both camps, so this story is not about bashing pay-to-play games. Being a DM requires time, effort, and availability; and I am willing to pay since free games are not typically hosted during that time slot.
The DM hosting this Curse of Strahd campaign presented himself as a knowledgeable Grognard from the Gygaxian era. A retired man who ran D&D games to have fun and get a bit of spending money as a side hustle. He made promises that this campaign was going to be more than just an out-of-the-box 5th edition game. It would run the gambit of Ravenloft’s rich history taking elements from older editions and novels like ‘I Strahd: The Memoirs of a Vampire’. The game would be going from level 1 to 20, as defeating Strahd and escaping Barovia was just the beginning. He planned on the party visiting other domains of dread and dark places within the shadowfel. During a voice call interview, we spoke about table conduct, civility, respect, lines and veils, and all the things that sold me the idea he was a professional DM and cared about the integrity of his campaign. At no point did this grown-ass old man proclaim anything along the lines of, “This will be like playing D&D with two friends in a basement, and you’re the third wheel who buys our snacks”. If he had, I would not have signed up. We shall call him the Bantering DM for the rest of the story.
Two weeks go by and the game fills with four players: My half-goblin moon druid named Olivia; an elf bladesinger wizard named Cayden; a purple tiefling lore bard named Eternal Cake; lastly the problem player Jormungandr the fallen-aasimar giant barbarian. We have session zero with everyone in the Discord voice channel. The Bantering DM goes over the same points from the interview and has us go around the table so that we can introduce ourselves, our characters, and the lines/veils we’d like to avoid. I don’t like witnessing instances of child abuse, Cayden does not like descriptions of spiders, Eternal Cake does not want the party to torture NPCs, and Jormungandr asks that we be patient with him as he has ADHD. I go above and beyond by making high-resolution character tokens for everyone. As we are chatting and filling out our character sheets, it is revealed that Eternal Cake and Jormungandr are longtime friends of the Bantering DM and are not paying for the sessions like Cayden and myself. Personally, I’d feel more comfortable if all the players either paid a fee or played for free, but I let it slide because everyone seemed nice at the time.
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In session one, unfortunately, Eternal Cake was not able to join us so we had to puppet his purple tiefling. The Bantering DM uses the Creeping Mists introduction. Each of our characters was spirited to Barovia with whatever equipment we had on our person. Cayden and Jormungandr sounded mildly inconvenienced upon discovering that they were kidnapped by magical mist and then plopped into a dark forest. Meanwhile, Olivia was scared out of her mind and avoided the three strange men. She decided to climb a tree to find a road or landmarks. Survival checks were made, she discovered a road not too far away and heard the howling of wolves in the distance. Even though she did not trust these men, she motioned for them to follow her, hopefully, they’d be safe together.
We were ambushed by three wolves on the road. During the surprise round, both Cayden and Eternal Cake were rendered unconscious. Pack tactics caused a critical hit on Cayden, the wolf’s bite attack damage was 13, meaning his wizard with 7 hit points was a single point away from instantly dying. Thankfully, I prepared healing spells for just such an occasion. It was at this point that I got to experience the Bantering DM and Jormungandr’s dynamic.
DM: “At advantage from pack tactics, that is a 17 to hit.”
Barb: “No that does not hit me.”
DM: “Your token is linked to your sheet. You have 15 AC, my guy.”
Barb: “What about with a shield? Ever think about that?”
DM: “Even if you had a shield, that's 17, it meets it beats. But you're using a maul.”
Barb: “Does Cake have silvery barbs? I demand a reroll.”
DM: “Cake is unconscious.”
Me: “Um, I will get him up when it is my turn. Can you drop it?”
Barb: “Fine.”
DM: “That is 7 piercing damage.”
Barb: “7 bullshit damage! I have not even had a turn. I’m not raging so it is FULL!”
Olivia played cautiously, healing the downed party members and using ranged cantrips. Jormungandr did big damage with his maul but complained and argued with the Bantering DM, extending each of his turns longer than they needed to be. Injured, but grateful to be alive, we travel down the muddy road.
The party makes it to the village of Barovia. We wander the streets and eventually find the Blood of the Vine tavern. Cayden and Jormungandr do the majority of the talking, as Olivia is unsure if the villagers will be hostile or welcoming to a goblin like her. The Bantering DM laced the expositional dialog with a lot of profanity, personal attacks, and spitting on the floor. The barkeep explained that spitting was a Barovian custom, that if an evil thing is expressed one must spit quickly otherwise demons will possess the soul. The insults were primarily based on our characters' appearances. Cayden was called a knife-ear, short, girly man, hairless, and physically weak. Jormungandr was mocked for being stupid, a savage brute, and likely to get struck by lightning as he had a metal pauldron. Eternal Cake was spared as he was not at the session, though I imagine the Bantering DM had plenty to say about a purple devil man. The barkeep called Olivia an ugly greenskin, asked where the rest of her clothes were, if she was like goblins in fairytales that hide under children's beds to eat their toes, and that I may as well “get it over with as it will happen sooner or later”, implying that I should kill myself. When he said that, Olivia spat and glared at the man. Through that abuse, we learned the leader of the town recently died. His son Ismark was now in charge, but no one liked him. There was a cursed child with red hair named Ireena, taken in by the prior burgomaster. The ruler of this valley is called The Devil and he’s been sending monsters to torment the village recently. The priest of the local church had gone mad when his son died in a recent attack. Finally, there is a town further down the road called Vallaki. We rent a room and end the session with a milestone level up.
After the game wrapped up, we were still in the voice call and I expressed a couple of concerns I had about the banter during combat. Saying that it made the fight drag on for longer. I also said that I could handle rude or unlikeable NPCs and that I understand Barovia is a bleak atmosphere, but I felt the barkeep overstepped into abusive language with his comments. The Bantering DM apologized, said that it was all just in character, and excused the innkeeper by saying he is scared, small-minded, and considered us a bad omen on top of recent terrible events. I chalked it up to adjusting to a new group. This will be the only time that the Bantering DM will apologize or engage with my concerns and criticisms. After this, he would ignore what I had to say.
For session two Eternal Cake is unable to play again. The party woke up and left the inn. Immediately we are confronted by Ismark, he puffs himself up and banishes us from the town. Yelling for us to get out, that we were harming his people, we were unwelcome, and no merchant was legally allowed to trade with us. Then he stomped off unwilling to talk about whether or not we could help his people. Now, I’ve run Curse of Strahd before, I have meta-knowledge about things we can do in this village. There is content to explore, stuff to do, and ways to better the village. Some of which was hinted at by the barkeep last session. However, in character, Olivia was told to kill herself and a few hours later got banished. She does not belong here, she is not wanted, so the true neutral thing to do is leave. But in-character and out-of-character are very different beasts because I know that leaving would mean abandoning the story's most pivotal character Ireena. Jormungandr and Cayden both agree, well screw this town if everyone is going to be a jerk. I’m panicking, internally screaming, trying to come up with an in-character reason to force us to meet Ireena, but drawing a blank.
Then as we are about one hundred paces outside of town, we hear a young woman calling out after us. It is Ireena. She is running after us, short of breath and begging us to stop for a second. She explains that we are the heroes of prophecy. Asking if she could travel with us to Vallaki. The way that Bantering DM is playing Ireena, makes me mad, as he is putting on a stereotypical airhead voice and making her sound dumb. Cayden and Jormungandr pick up on this and ask a few questions. Ireena explains that she was never allowed out of the house and that this is the furthest she’s been outside of the village. She found her dad's old breastplate and rapier, but she’d never used them before. That she’s never been in a fight. Later on, the Bantering DM would show this by having her routinely make dexterity saving throws in combat to not trip and fall prone. Describing her as swinging wildly and whenever she did hit an enemy made it sound like an accident. Nor does she seem to have any bonds with her village, or care to say goodbye to her brother. The biggest problem is never mentioned out loud, but through meta-knowledge I know that her father has not been buried yet. This means that the Bantering DM chose to cut the funeral from the module, or that it still needs to be done but Ireena does not care about laying her father to rest.
We travel down the road and come to the gallows at the crossroads. It just so happens that Olivia sees the apparition of her own body dangling from the noose. She expresses sorrow and I hint at backstory trauma, calling the event “probably a bad memory of the last time I had a rope around my neck”. Then the Bantering DM performs the final part of Ireena’s character assassination. Ireena kneels down, looks Olivia in the eye, and says, “You must have gone mad”, then laughs at her. This is not Ireena, this is a careless fool with no empathy. I don’t know why the Bantering DM made these changes. Because he is sexist? To be funny? Is it because he considers the village portion of Barovia boring? Is he ignorant or malicious? I cannot answer these questions, nor will I pretend to be a mind reader. I am just laying out what he did.
We continued to travel down the road, eventually meeting an old woman with a cart headed toward the village. Ireena seemed to know this woman, calling her Granny, and spoke louder to imply the older woman was hard of hearing. She greeted us and offered pies for sale. With meta-knowledge I know that this is Morgantha, a night hag who kills people and grinds their bones at her windmill aptly named Bonegrinder. But I would never act on this knowledge nor spoil the surprise for anyone else. Jormungandr then asked, “Are the pies made of people?”, without any suspicious behavior or provocation. Granny said ‘no, of course not’. But then Jormungandr started to question the old lady intensely. Why are you traveling all by yourself? Are you not scared of wolves? How big is this woman DM? Does she look like she has an arcane focus? Is there anything weird about her cart? Can I do an insight check to sense her motivations? He hardly even let the DM answer the damn question before firing off another one. So I break character and say. “Stop meta-gaming! Knock it off!” Confronting Jormungandr seemed to get him to stop, but this should be the job of the DM, especially one who laid out a list of table etiquette during session zero. Once we resumed, in character I ran defense for the hag. Saying that as a druid I could talk to animals and giving them food often lets them know you are friendly. Just because she is an old woman, does not mean she was incapable of taking care of herself. To which the hag agreed and gave me a free pie.
After that, we got to the Vistani camp and Madame Eva’s fortune-telling. The cards we got were the best pulls I’ve ever seen, super thematic, and a great fated ally. The Sunsword would be at the beacon of Agronvostholt after we light it. The Tome is hidden in Baba Lysaga’s hut, makes sense that she’d keep her darling son's diary safe. The Holy Symbol is behind the sun at St. Markovia, so we have to confront a fallen angel to retrieve an amulet of faith. And we got the G.O.A.T. - Ezmerelda d'Avenir, we could run into her at a bunch of different places. All of this was meta-knowledge, of course, and unlike Jormungandr I did not intend to start demanding we go to these places to speedrun win D&D. We ended the session at that point, and once again we got a milestone level up.
I left the voice call, took a few days to cool off, and then carefully wrote out a respectful message detailing my frustrations to the Bantering DM. Both about Jormungandr’s meta-gaming outburst during the hag interaction and how he chose to portray Ireena Kolyana. I explained that she was coming across as an unempathetic ditz. The way she was acting made it difficult for my character to like or trust her. Hammering on the points about the funeral as well as her mocking Olivia at the gallows. I wrote that I understand there are many ways the community around Curse of Strahd has characterized Ireena. Ranging from Palidoozy’s disney princess version to Dragnacarta’s complete rework of her character into an arc to recover her memories. Sometimes she is a damsel in distress, other times the light that Barovia desperately needs. I never got a response to my criticisms. Perhaps I was out of line? I did not want my comments to come across as backseat DMing. I never interrupted the flow of the session, waiting until afterward to try and communicate my concerns. I felt like my issues were tangible and explainable. I did consider leaving the game if things did not improve. In hindsight, I think that it was the insane fortune pulls that got me to stay.
In the third session, Eternal Cake could play with us, but Cayden could not. Also, we got a new player added to the roster. A paladin named Paul. The party travels down the road until they come across a kidnapping in progress. Several men were tying up a young woman and stuffing her into a burlap sack. We charged in, and the DM puppeted Cayden. Paul was introduced in this fight. He emerged from the bushes and went after the bandits, ready to smite evil and save a damsel. Eternal Cake passed out inspiration like candy and used spells like bless and command. Jormungandr became a big angry boy and smashed his way through the bandits. Olivia got to show off her higher AC from taking a level dip into monk. Blowing everyone’s mind when I explained how these features stacked with wildshape. However, once again this combat brought out the worst in Bantering DM and Jormungandr.
DM: “The bandit disengages and runs over here. Then he fires a crossbow at George-Munger.”
Barb: “Jormungandr.”
DM: “That is what I said, Gorge-Gander.”
Barb: “Say my name right. Jormungandr.”
DM: “Your Muh Ganger.”
Barb: “George is my cat. He is a milk puddle. But I am not George.”
Me: “Can we please keep combat going?”
Barb: “No one asked you.”
Me: “Whatever…”
DM: “Anyway, a 13 misses your AC. Then it is this bandit’s turn. And he kills Jormungandr instantly.”
Barb: “You haven't even rolled yet.”
We manage to win the fight and have one enemy restrained in my entangle spell. During combat, we decided as a group to spare one of the kidnappers so that we could question him. Untying the young woman and pulling her from the sack. Then the girl casts produce flame and murders the bandit. Everyone is miffed, as it felt like the Bantering DM took away our opportunity to gain information. The girl explained that she was a Vistana named Arabella. Asking for us to guide her back to her camp, it is not far from Vallaki. We do so, and I don’t remember much of what happened during this session. I was upset about the bantering and that our group agency was taken away. I disassociated from the conversations but got the gist of it
Like with Ismark and the barkeep, the Vistani people insulted us. They gave the party a cloak of protection as a reward for saving Arabella. The Bantering DM said that we should argue over who gets to wear it. The Vistani name-dropped Strahd and called themselves his allies. Telling us that we may as well give up any hope of escaping. He briefly mentions dusk elves also being in the camp. At one point, the Bantering DM realized I was not contributing to the conversation. So Arrigal asked if Olivia was for sale. I flatly said, “I am free, don’t ever say something like that to me again!” The lines between in and out-of-character blurred. When it was about ten minutes till, I wanted to do something else. I said that I would be interested in speaking with the dusk elves. The Bantering DM said, “They are prisoners and the Vistani told you to not bother them”. I asked if I could make a stealth check. He said, “There are like 300 Vistani in this camp and someone will spot you.” On the one hand, he did not make me roll for something I could not succeed in, but it still felt shitty to be told no it is impossible. We ended the session with a milestone level-up. I did not write the Bantering DM between sessions. I should not have returned for another game.
Fourth session, Eternal Cake is once again missing in action. I had hoped that in this session everyone would be able to play and we could finally all get on the same page. We were also supposed to go into the town of Vallaki. However, once we started walking down the path a dusk elf appeared. She, yes a female dusk elf named Kassy-Mira no less, asked us to go to a haunted fort to find one of her sisters named Savida. My meta-knowledge goes into overload wondering what in the hell did this Bantering DM do. For those of you in the know, I am looking forward to responses and speculations in the comments section. Kassy-Mira explains that Savida is the keeper of their lore and history, an elven leader who must be recovered. I ask a couple of clarifying questions because at this point I have no idea what is going on. The elves are prisoners of the Vistani, yet a leader was able to escape? Why did no one else escape? Where is this fort? If the fort is haunted why would they flee there? Why are the dusk elves prisoners anyway? Did you escape Miss Kassy-Mira? Do the elves want to revolt against the Vistani? But I only got answers that the fort was to the west and that returning their leader was paramount. Then she rushed back to voluntarily go back into dusk elf prison, I guess. So instead of going to Vallaki like I was hoping, I guess we are going to the house of the silver dragon. My only theory is that the Bantering DM wanted us to get started on the questline to retrieve the skull, so he shoe-horned in a way for us to redirect to Argonvostholt. But in doing so he also revealed whatever he did to the dusk elf lore. I’m guessing he reversed the gender of the events before the campaign started. Which makes me wonder, did he gender-bend Rahadin too?
We wander down the road and find the haunted mansion atop the muddy hill. Seeing the statue and for whatever reason we decide to check out the collapsed stables first. The rest of the session was a combat encounter against a dozen giant spiders. Two of the three hours were dedicated to this, mostly because the Bantering DM and Jormungandr took forever to keep the turns moving along. And they were particularly toxic during this combat because Jormungandr hated that his rage did not resist poison. I knew that once the session was over, I’d be writing up my farewell message. Every time it was my turn, I simply stated what actions I took and quickly did it. Elaborating if questioned on my abilities.
DM: "Make a Con save against poison".
Barb: "No, make me."
DM: "Do it bitch."
Barb: "Fine. 21."
DM: "You failed."
Barb: "It says DC 11 for spider DM."
DM: "Yeah, well, fuck you."
Me: “I use multiattack, bite, claw, bonus action unarmed strike. 21 to hit, for 7 piercing damage. 18 to hit, for 15 slashing damage. 24 to hit, for 5 bludgeoning damage.”
Barb: “You can do three attacks? That is bullshit.”
Me: “Brown Bear has multiattack, monk grants martial arts.”
After the fight, we had just enough time to enter the mansion and find Savida. Olivia still had some spell slots, so I tended to her injuries. The Bantering DM said that the party would question her at the start of the next session. Once we ended the call, I wrote up a few things. First I left a message in the general chat thanking the players and wishing them well. I learned from Cayden later on that my farewell message was deleted by the DM. Then I wrote my final criticisms and sent them to the Bantering DM privately, letting him know I would not be returning.
https://preview.redd.it/q3vodfhvln1d1.png?width=823&format=png&auto=webp&s=d9518097a06761bceec649228aa34b8d8b786165
https://preview.redd.it/kvj7l4u3mn1d1.png?width=1225&format=png&auto=webp&s=865388fc0d5c65ff64776196f6725de01c228049
The punchline to this joke of a campaign. A week later, today, Cayden tells me that the Bantering DM canceled the session because neither of his buddies showed up to play. Eternal Flake, Geogreinanger, and the Bantering DM, despite all my complaints I hope they continue to have fun. Maybe next time though, don’t play favorites and charge people for a “fun time in Grandpa’s basement”.
https://preview.redd.it/vycv0uqsln1d1.png?width=1229&format=png&auto=webp&s=2c241b09728ebc29653e384dea90a24d770e7a0b

Happened to me minutes ago. No UI element can be clicked, other than the blue energy circle. No card can be played. Still amazes me how the UI is still full of bugs like this one.
Farewell 1 cube, you will be missed.

So....I gave breaks a try, hate it. Will just buy what I like and not gamble anymore. But....before I decided to quit I joined a multi box break at Sports Box Breaks and landed this SICK Ohtoni🥳 from 2024 Topps Chrome Black

I’ve seen this a few times, where they have less than three mana left and no mana artifacts/etc. How were they able to pay this mana cost? One of these mana do (2) or something?

Best Things to Do in Medford Ma Welcome to Medford, MA! We're here to show you the best things to do in this vibrant city.Get ready to immerse yourselves in history, explore fascinating museums, and take in the beauty of outdoor activities.Indulge your taste buds with delicious cuisine and find hidden treasures while shopping.Immerse yourself in the arts and culture scene, and enjoy the many parks and recreation areas.Whether you're a history buff, foodie, or nature lover, Medford has something for everyone.Let's dive in and discover the best of Medford, MA!Key TakeawaysHistoric sites and museums offer a glimpse into the past of Medford, including the Royall House and Slave Quarters and the Isaac Royall Jr. birthplace.Outdoor activities in Medford include exploring the Middlesex Fells Reservation, fishing in the Mystic River, and swimming and picnicking at Wright's Pond.Family-friendly attractions in Medford include the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum, Mystic River State Reservation, and Medford Condon Shell for live performances.Medford offers a variety of dining experiences, from local restaurants serving Italian and international cuisine to farmers' markets with fresh produce and artisanal products.Historic Sites and MuseumsWe highly recommend visiting the Royall House and Slave Quarters, which offers a guided tour and provides an educational experience, giving us a glimpse into Medford's past. This historic site takes us back to colonial times, allowing us to learn about the rich history of the area. As we walk through the house, we can see the collection of antiques and artifacts that tell the story of Medford's early days. The knowledgeable guides share fascinating stories about the people who lived and worked here, including Isaac Royall Jr., who was born in this very house.The Royall House and Slave Quarters is more than just a museum; it's an opportunity to engage with the past and reflect on the legacy of slavery in America. The Slave Quarters is a sobering reminder of the harsh realities faced by enslaved people during this time. By exploring this part of the site, we gain a deeper understanding of the lives of those who were enslaved and the impact of their labor on the development of Medford and the nation.The guided tour at the Royall House and Slave Quarters is an excellent educational experience for all ages. The guides are passionate about sharing the history and are skilled at making the past come alive. They encourage questions and foster discussions, ensuring that visitors leave with a comprehensive understanding of Medford's colonial history.Visiting the Royall House and Slave Quarters isn't only a chance to learn about the past, but it's also an opportunity to honor the stories of those who came before us. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of freedom and the ongoing struggle for equality. So, make sure to add this historic site to your Medford itinerary for an educational and thought-provoking experience.Outdoor ActivitiesWhen it comes to outdoor activities in Medford, MA, there's no shortage of options. Whether you enjoy hiking, biking, or fishing, this town has it all.From the expansive Middlesex Fells Reservation with its scenic trails, to the tranquil Mystic River offering fishing opportunities, there's something for everyone to enjoy in the great outdoors of Medford.Hiking in MedfordThe Middlesex Fells Reservation offers a variety of hiking trails for outdoor enthusiasts in Medford, MA. Nestled in a 2,575-acre natural park, the reservation provides some of the best hiking trails in the area. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced hiker, there are scenic hiking spots that cater to all skill levels.As you traverse the trails, you'll be treated to breathtaking views of lush forests, sparkling lakes, and vibrant wildflowers. The diverse terrain of the reservation offers a unique experience with each hike, from gentle slopes to challenging ascents.Immerse yourself in nature as you explore the Middlesex Fells Reservation, and discover the beauty that Medford has to offer. So put on your hiking boots and get ready to embark on an unforgettable adventure.Biking Trails in MedfordLet's explore the biking trails in Medford, MA for some exciting outdoor activities.Medford offers a variety of biking routes that cater to all levels of experience. Whether you're a beginner or an advanced cyclist, there's something for everyone.One of the best biking routes in Medford is the Middlesex Fells Reservation, a 2,575-acre natural park with picturesque trails that wind through lush forests and serene lakes.The Mystic River Path is another popular choice, where you can enjoy a scenic ride along the river, taking in the beautiful views and wildlife.And if you're looking for some biking events, keep an eye out for the Medford Arts Festival, which often includes biking activities and competitions.Fishing Opportunities in MedfordWe love the fishing opportunities in Medford, MA for some exciting outdoor activities.Whether you're an experienced angler or just starting out, Medford offers a variety of fishing spots that are sure to satisfy your fishing cravings.The Mystic River is a popular choice among locals and visitors alike, known for its abundance of fish species such as bass, trout, and perch.For a serene and picturesque fishing experience, head to the Mystic Lakes, where you can enjoy boating and fishing while surrounded by beautiful scenery.And if you're looking for a peaceful spot to cast your line, Wright's Pond Conservation Area is the perfect choice.Don't forget to pack your fishing gear, including a rod, reel, bait, and tackle box, to ensure a successful fishing trip in Medford.Family-Friendly AttractionsAmelia Earhart Birthplace Museum is a must-visit attraction for families in Medford, MA. This museum is dedicated to commemorating aviation history and honoring the famous aviator, Amelia Earhart. As you step inside the museum, you'll be transported back in time to learn about Earhart's incredible achievements and her impact on the world of aviation. The exhibits are engaging and educational, providing a fascinating insight into Earhart's life and legacy.For families looking for more educational experiences, the Medford Family Network offers a variety of engaging programs for kids. From interactive workshops to engaging classes, the Medford Family Network provides a nurturing environment for children to learn and grow. These programs are designed to stimulate curiosity, promote creativity, and foster a love for learning in young minds.As you explore the family-friendly attractions in Medford, MA, you'll also come across Mystic River State Reservation. This picturesque spot is perfect for picnics and wildlife spotting. Spend a leisurely afternoon surrounded by nature, enjoying the serene beauty of the Mystic River.Now that we've explored the family-friendly attractions in Medford, MA, it's time to satisfy our taste buds with the diverse dining and food experiences this city has to offer.Dining and Food ExperiencesWhen exploring Medford, MA, one can't resist the mouth-watering aromas and delectable flavors of the local restaurants serving famous Italian cuisine, international cuisines, and fresh seafood dishes. Medford is home to a variety of dining options that cater to all tastes and preferences. Whether you're in the mood for a hearty plate of pasta, a flavorful curry, or a succulent lobster dish, you'll find it all in Medford.For those seeking a farm-to-table experience, there are several restaurants that prioritize sourcing ingredients from local farms and suppliers. These establishments not only offer delicious dishes but also support the local community and promote sustainability. From seasonal salads to grass-fed steaks, farm-to-table restaurants in Medford are a treat for food enthusiasts looking for a truly authentic and fresh dining experience.In addition to the diverse range of restaurants, Medford also hosts culinary events throughout the year. These events showcase the talents of local chefs, highlight different cuisines, and provide an opportunity to indulge in unique food experiences. From food festivals to chef-led cooking classes, there's always something exciting happening in Medford for food lovers.Whether you're a resident or a visitor, exploring the dining and food experiences in Medford is a must. From the vibrant flavors of Italian cuisine to the exotic spices of international dishes, the city offers a culinary journey that's sure to satisfy any palate. So, grab a seat at one of the local restaurants, savor the flavors, and immerse yourself in the vibrant food scene of Medford.ShoppingWhen it comes to shopping in Medford, MA, there are plenty of local gems to discover. Whether you're in need of some retail therapy or searching for unique artisanal finds, Medford has something for everyone.From the boutiques and specialty stores in the Medford Square shopping district to the wide range of retail options at Meadow Glen Mall, you'll be sure to find what you're looking for.Local Shopping GemsWe love exploring Medford's local shopping gems for unique finds and hidden treasures. Here are some of our favorite spots to indulge in some retail therapy:Medford Square shopping district: This charming area is home to a variety of boutiques and specialty stores. From trendy fashion boutiques to quaint gift shops, you'll find a little bit of everything in Medford Square.Meadow Glen Mall: If you're looking for a wider range of retail options, head to Meadow Glen Mall. This shopping center features popular chain stores as well as local shops, making it a one-stop destination for all your shopping needs.Local artisan shops: For truly unique gifts and crafts, check out the local artisan shops in Medford. These hidden gems offer handmade items that you won't find anywhere else. From handcrafted jewelry to beautifully crafted home decor, you're sure to find something special.Medford's farmers' markets: Don't forget to visit Medford's farmers' markets for fresh produce and groceries. These markets not only offer a wide selection of locally grown fruits and vegetables but also provide a great opportunity to support local farmers and artisans.Retail Therapy OptionsIf you're in the mood for some retail therapy, there are plenty of options to explore in Medford, MA. The Medford Square shopping district is a must-visit, with its charming boutiques and specialty stores offering a unique shopping experience. You can also head to Meadow Glen Mall, which boasts a wide range of retail options to cater to all your shopping needs.For those looking for something different, Medford is home to local artisan shops where you can find unique gifts and crafts made by talented local artists. And don't forget to check out the farmers' markets in Medford, where you can browse through fresh produce and artisanal products.After indulging in some retail therapy, it's time to discover the next section about the unique artisanal finds in Medford.Unique Artisanal FindsLet's explore the wide array of unique artisanal finds in Medford, MA, where you can discover one-of-a-kind treasures while shopping.Here are some must-visit spots for those looking for artisanal crafts and local handmade products:Medford Square shopping district: This charming area is home to boutiques and specialty stores that offer a variety of artisanal crafts. From handcrafted jewelry to beautifully designed ceramics, you're sure to find something special here.Local artisan shops: Medford is known for its thriving artisan community, and you can find their creations in the many local artisan shops scattered throughout the city. These shops showcase an eclectic mix of handmade products, including artwork, textiles, and unique home decor items.Medford's farmers' markets: Not only can you find fresh produce and groceries at Medford's farmers' markets, but you can also discover a range of locally made artisanal products. From homemade jams and preserves to hand-poured candles, these markets are a treasure trove of unique finds.Assembly Row outlet stores: If you're looking for great deals on high-quality artisanal products, head to Assembly Row. This shopping destination features outlet stores where you can find discounted prices on everything from clothing and accessories to home goods and specialty items.Whether you're searching for a special gift or simply want to support local artisans, Medford offers a wealth of opportunities to discover unique artisanal finds while shopping.Arts and CultureThe Chevalier Theatre offers a historic venue for performances, showcasing a variety of arts and cultural events in Medford, MA. Located in the heart of Medford Square, this beautifully restored theater has a rich history dating back to 1927. Its grand architecture and elegant interior make it a captivating setting for a wide range of performances, including concerts, plays, dance shows, and comedy acts.The local art scene in Medford is vibrant and diverse. The town is home to many talented artists, and the Chevalier Theatre serves as a platform for them to showcase their work. The theater regularly hosts art exhibitions, featuring paintings, sculptures, and other forms of visual art. It's a great opportunity for art enthusiasts to immerse themselves in the local art scene and discover new talent.In addition to its role as a cultural hub, the Chevalier Theatre also hosts a variety of cultural events throughout the year. From film screenings to poetry readings, there's always something happening at this historic venue. These events not only entertain, but also educate and inspire, offering a glimpse into different cultures and perspectives.Attending a performance or cultural event at the Chevalier Theatre is an enriching experience that allows you to connect with the arts and culture of Medford. Whether you're a fan of live music, theater, or visual arts, this historic venue has something for everyone. So, grab your friends or family and immerse yourself in the vibrant arts and cultural scene of Medford.Frequently Asked QuestionsAre There Any Restrictions or Guidelines for Visiting the Royall House and Slave Quarters?When visiting the Royall House and Slave Quarters, there are some restrictions and guidelines to keep in mind. Due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic, it's important to check for any updated visiting restrictions and COVID guidelines before your visit. This ensures the safety of all visitors and staff.The Royall House and Slave Quarters offers a unique and educational experience, allowing visitors to learn about the history of Medford and gain insight into the lives of those who lived there.What Are the Popular Hiking Trails in the Middlesex Fells Reservation?Looking for the best hiking trails near Medford, MA? Middlesex Fells Reservation has some popular paths worth exploring!With picturesque views and diverse terrain, these trails offer a thrilling adventure for outdoor enthusiasts.From the challenging Skyline Trail to the serene Crystal Springs Loop, there's something for everyone.Lace up your boots and get ready to immerse yourself in the beauty of nature.Happy hiking!Are Pets Allowed at the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum?Pets aren't allowed at the Amelia Earhart Birthplace Museum. It's important to follow the visiting guidelines to ensure a positive experience for everyone.The museum is dedicated to honoring the famous aviator and offers a unique glimpse into her life.While pets may not be able to join you on this particular excursion, there are plenty of other family-friendly attractions and outdoor activities in Medford, MA that welcome furry friends.Which Restaurants in Medford Offer Vegetarian or Vegan Options?When it comes to dining out as a vegetarian or vegan in Medford, Ma, there are several options to choose from. One interesting statistic is that there are over 10 restaurants in Medford that offer vegetarian or vegan options.Some popular choices include XYZ Restaurant, ABC Cafe, and LMN Bistro. These establishments provide a variety of delicious plant-based dishes that cater to different dietary preferences. Whether you're craving a hearty veggie burger or a fresh salad, Medford has something for everyone.Do the Local Farmers' Markets in Medford Accept Credit Cards or Only Cash?At the local farmers' markets in Medford, MA, you have the option to pay with either cash or credit card. The credit card acceptance at these markets allows for convenience and ease of payment, eliminating the need for carrying cash.However, using cash can have its advantages, such as avoiding transaction fees and keeping track of your spending.Ultimately, the choice between cash and credit card depends on your personal preference and needs.ConclusionAs we bid farewell to the vibrant city of Medford, MA, we can't help but be overwhelmed by the memories and experiences we've gathered along the way.From immersing ourselves in the rich history of the Royall House and Slave Quarters to indulging in mouthwatering seafood dishes and exploring the breathtaking beauty of the Middlesex Fells Reservation, Medford has truly captivated our hearts.So, whether it's the fascinating museums, outdoor adventures, family-friendly attractions, or the vibrant arts scene, Medford has left an indelible mark on our souls.Until we meet again, Medford!

I’m not overwhelmed with joy but I got a couple that I didn’t have before. ¯_(ツ)_/¯