Hello dear readers!
I hope this post finds you well. As the murderous heat wanes my mental and physical well-being both continue to improve. Here’s what I’ve been up to recently.
Mornings Up Mirror Hill
For the past week I’ve been trying to make the most of the more clement weather and go for walks more often.
Specifically, walks in and around the forested hill that’s just five minutes’ walk from our home.
I’m pretty sure I’ve shared photos of it here in the past. Either way it bares repeating: we are incredibly lucky to live next to such a beautiful green area. Even after being scorched by this year’s merciless summer, it is still a pleasure to walk through. The forest floor is still littered with browned leaves and yellowing grass.
However, the recent rains have helped in getting some green shoots growing again.
Aside from wanting to enjoy nature more regularly, I also want to be more active. After all, I spent the majority of the past three months lying sweating on the bed and/or sofa.
To this effect, I’m trying to include a hike up to the top of the forest’s hill every time I go for one of these walks.
It’s a bit of rough climb in places, but the view from the top is lovely, especially on a clear day.
Below is a video of one of my walks, as well as some photos I took from the top just as the sun was rising.
PLEASE NOTE: the video may not be suitable for those who suffer from motion sickness.
The more I walk through this forest, the more familiar I am getting with its paths. I’ve never had the best sense of direction, so I feel like this is good training for me in that respect.
I’ve been giving fantasy-style names to some of the features I use for finding my way. Ivybridge, Rubbleway, Cactus Country, Bouldergarden… to name but a few. I’ve named the hill itself “Mirror Hill” as, after it has rained, the craggy pits and holes at the peak turn into beautiful mirror-like pools.
Perhaps I’ll make a map at some point?
New Art Assets for September
I decided to carry on with the sci-fantasy theme from last month, and drew two more characters.
These are a powerful space-wizard and beefy, laser gun-toting alien brute. Below is the colour version, a black & white version is also up on the Patreon.
New Art Video: Another Roll Table Character
My last video has been very well received so far, so I thought I’d do a follow up.
I’ve decided to try doing multiple, shorter one-character videos, instead of another long one.
In this one I draw a rock gnome battle cleric who preaches against war and for animal rights.
Pictured above: Brother Cobblemoss, the rock gnome battle cleric featured in the video above.
And. as promised in the video, here is art of Snuffles the dire-mole! Isn’t she a beauty?
In between drawings I have continued writing up all my roll tables into a nice and neat word document.
I still need to type up the adjusted ALBO rules, example of play and guidance on how to use the tables.
The character generator tables, however, are all done. You can download them and try them out for yourself by joining my Patreon at any tier.
Media Showcase
- RPG Trader has just had a major new upgrade! They’re partnering with The Game Crafter to allow creators on RPG Trader to also sell gaming accessories, like GM screens, hex tiles, dice and more! Check out the announcement here.
- A whole bunch of quality video essays were recently published!
– A great explanation and exploration of the concept of “property is theft” by Andrewism,
– A hard-hitting overview of how to tackle zionist propaganda by Indie Nile,
– An incredibly informative and illuminating analysis of bisexual representation by Verity Ritchie,
– And a retrospective on Dolly Parton’s life and image, by Lindsay Ellis. - My good pal Rob (Psiren) has just released a new song: Future Accidents.
- And last but certainly not least, some Positive Leftist News from August!
That’s all for this issue!
As always, thank you so much for reading.
One last reminder that if you feel like supporting my work, you can buy something from my website or itchio, join my Patreon as a paying member, or commission me.
If none of the above are doable for you, please consider spreading the word about my work to your friends!
Want to try a space to hang out and chat that’s not a social media platform?
Check out my forum, PennySpace!
Until next time,
– Penflower