LFP
Monstrous Compendium Vol. 1: Spelljammer Creatures
Frozen Sick
D&D Beyond Basic Rules
Basic Rules (2014)
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**Basics**
Genre: Dark Fantasy. Gothic Horror. Roleplay Focus.
Scheduling: Weekly Saturdays, 9 PM GMT.
Platform: Discord for Voice & Video. Roll20 for maps and sheets.
**The Night Beckons You Forth.**
Thee of valor and honor are advised to listen to this music piece ( https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugUuAyLQZm0&list=PLcnvkahJI9vmLV8MF5mb4_WPp_bz3ZZaE&index=24 ) while you read ahead. With my outmost gratitude, I thank thee for indulging this lowly servant in her flair for the dramatics.
Sincererely yours,
Your Prospective Game Master.
**The Mist Sets In.**
Wails of despair echo in the valley. Mists creep along a landscape of dissolution and ruin. They claw the hope out of your lungs, whatever remnants of it had remained anyway. In the far off distance, you hear the hollowing from the Svalich Woods, the waking of the wolfsbane.
Above your head, clouds dark as coal gather. A flash of lightning reveals them to be not clouds, but swarms of inhumanely large bats. The spread of their wings conceals the slim glint of the crescent moon and you almost swear that amongst their midst, a set of inhumane scarlet eyes shines through.
Castle Ravenloft looms in the distance, a God amongst mortals. From its tall spires, you can vaguely make out a towering figure, pale skin illuminated amongst shadows and mists. Count Strahd Von Zarovich is watching you closely.
After all, He is the Ancient. He is the Land. And you are intruders upon his domain.
Your feet carry you, fast as they can, to the humble, rundown tavern. You lock the doors shut.
Between the slits of your boarded up windows, you catch glimpses of shadows, of Husks, of bodies that stumble through the streets, shambling prey waiting for their pitiful existence to end. Blood without heart. Flesh without soul.
You turn away from their plight. Huddling by the fireplace, here is where you will spend your night, your oaken door acting as a shield between your party and the children of the Night, the undead hordes of the Devil Strahd.
You exchange stories of times merrier than this, times Barovia has not witnessed in hundreds of years, times that have started to slowly slip from your memory. And yet you pray, awaiting for the crack of dawn, a re-emergence of light which will never come.
Welcome to Barovia. Tis not your home. You do not belong here. But it matters not. Here you have come. Here you will die.
...or will you?
**There Is No Escape.**
Curse of Strahd is a 5th edition D&D adaption of the award-winning 1983 Ravenloft module for AD&D, written by Tracy and Laura Hickman. In the years since, the original has gained a reputation as one of the greatest Dungeons & Dragons adventures ever.
Curse of Strahd uses recurring elements inspired by classic horror literature and gothic fairy tales. The players find themselves drawn into the cursed land of Count Strahd von Zarovich, a terrifying predator hidden behind a romantic, noble veil. Once there, they must contend with the horrors of Barovia – misty forests full of wolves and witches; haunted manors and abandoned castles; grotesque monsters in the shadows; and other creatures that serve Strahd’s evil will.
Please note: Due to its influences, Curse of Strahd includes some unfortunate themes that may be uncomfortable for some players. While care has been taken to interpret and adapt such content, some of these themes may persist. This includes implied violence against children and women; problematic depictions of mental illness, abuse, and addiction; and racial stereotypes often attributed to the real-world Romani people.
During the game, if you are at all uncomfortable with any of the book’s content, please speak to me immediately or between sessions.
**There Is No Hope.**
Hail and well-met! I am a very rusty GM and I am seeking to dip my toes back into this hobby via running a module for a group of cool folks! As a GM, I prioritize storytelling, roleplay and immersion. Expect a 60 to 40 roleplay to combat ratio. I want you to invest in this story, table and characters. Murderhobos and those who seek meatgrinders simply will not fit my style.
I put plenty of effort in my games so I ask that care be reciprocated. Ideally I would like to create a friend group as well as a D&D group so if you have similiar aspirations, that is a big plus!
No bigotry, homophobia, racism, sexism, etc. The story may be dark, but I want my players to have fun with it and to have a safe space to turn to. Not to be burdened by the table.
This will be my first time running Curse of Strahd and I will be following the module closely for the most part with a few additions and supplements thrown in. People who have finished the module are thus discouraged from applying as a big part of the fun of this module is the mystery behind it, which they will sadly be deprived of.
I am 20 years old so players in the relative age range of 18 to 30 will be preferred as I prefer playing with people my own age. Emphasis on *prefer*. Your age alone will not be a factor to write you out so feel free to apply even if you are a dinosaur.
Beginners are also very much welcome. Level of experience does not matter to me. What does matter is that everyone is prepared to be engaged, enthusiastic and active. For those intrigued, please consult the two links embedded below to ensure this is the sort of tale that you will enjoy.
This is a cinematic which should hopefully give you an idea of the tone of the campaign: https://youtu.be/HJEBJQU1Y_E
And this is a document which will again hopefully help you make sure that Curse of Strahd is right for you:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1KSoopeyebg3IZUgt-UKsvrdzYdKh8b6Gfb6TOQlU2Mc/edit?usp=sharing
Have you done both already? Great! Fill out the questions and post in the thread. I will reach out to the applications that I like as soon as I can!
Witch one? Either way, I'm Niko, my character is Shrieker, both male, none, I'm 13, Shrieker is 23, I'm a noob, none, a fun time, really good, I go in guns blazing first thing, with out a plan. I do, and I told you his name. And, Because I bring a goofy vibe to this edge realm of a campaign.
My handle is visible to your left. My name is Jeff.
I'm an older, cis-gendered male and I expect the traditional pronouns. I don't get upset when somebody calls me other things, though. I have no reason to give them that much control over my emotional state.
My Discord handle is hustonj. Again. I'm older.
I am old enough that I have grandchildren, a grey beard, and am approaching the end of my career. I'm young enough my parents are still alive and I am still fully independently mobile.
I started playing AD&D very shortly after the first printing of the AD&D Player's Hnadbook back in 1979. Again, older. Been playing TTRPGs pretty much since. I have significant experience with AD&D versions 1, 2, 3, 3.5, and 3.75 (Pathfinder version 1). I hated 4 and ignored 5 because of it. I am learning 5.5.
I have heard of Ravenloft, but, believe it or not, just never really did anything with/about it over the years. I don't think I ever consciously avoided it. Just never came up.
There are 2 things I want from every TTRPG I play: Entertainment (fun) and socialization. Both are easier when the group gets along, has similar ENOUGH playstyles, and have compatible goals for the game as players. Good players can accept and deal with the characters having conflicting goals, though I understand that's less the case for Ravenloft.
A good GM is prepared, can improvise within the story as a response to player choices, keeps failure an option so that there's an honest opportunity for success, allows stupidity to hurt, and works with everyone at the table to orchestrate a common story centered around a team and not a single character.
I try to play memorable characters. I enjoy non-combat interactions more than combat, which surprises some who've seen me during combat as I can be extremely tactical. I'm usually trying to 1) keep the character reasonably healthy while 2) ending the combat and 3) hopefully eliminating the ongoing threat so that we can 4) get back to the meat of the story instead of focusing on just the combat. I have a history of working with characters based on the Roma, where I accept the thief stereotype more than I probably oughtta. I try to build specialist characters and depend on the team to specialize in other areas. Specialists are stronger in their focus than generalists, so together they are stronger than a group of generalists ever could be.
I suggested that a Roma thief (or maybe Bard) could be worked. I could also work a finesse combatant, or maybe a spear-wielding battlefield control combatant. While the setting cries out for a Cleric of Life or Light, I think a Cleric of Fate is very fitting, too. I've been curious about trying a Celestial Warlock Pact of the Tome healer character as well. Yes, lots of ideas and a fairly broad comfort zone of character types.
Why me? Because I understand that the DM has to be comfortable at the table, has to enjoy the game, or everyone loses out. Because I understand that every player has to have time in the spotlight for their character in order to feel involved and become invested in the story. Because fulfilling a support role doesn't inherently feel like playing second fiddle to me. At the end of the day, though, nothing I say in this response matters compared to the perception you have already formed about whether you could look forward to playing at a table with me. And by now you have formed an opinion.
Thank you for your consideration.
Hello! Thank you for offering to DM this campaign for those interested. I filled out your application template below, if there is anything you still need from me feel free to reach out over discord ^^
Phoenix
he/him
phoenixkry
23
I've been playing dnd for about 2 years now. I started as a player and then started DMing myself after about a year and recently I've been dabbling in both pretty much ^^
So this may be a dealbreaker, and it's totally understandable, but about a year ago I did play a bit of the beginning of the campaign (the death house optional part from 1-3 and a bit of the town) but the group stopped playing there. If this is still fine with you I would obviously refrain from spoiling anyone else, and try my best to only play with the knowledge that my character has, and probably take more of a backseat until we advance to parts that are unknown to me.
I really like the ambience of Curse of Strahd so I would like to play in a game that focuses on the hopeless feeling of dread the campaign offers. I think there is plenty of cool roleplay moments that can emerge in this setting and give you an experience that is different from the typical dnd campaign.
I'd want my DM to be someone who is fair, is excited to roleplay (though I think thats kinda a given for almost all DMs anyway haha) but also down to joke around with the group and just have fun.
I like making characters that are pretty thematic. I find it hard at times to create a character with a complex story and personality that you then also have to take into account when you roleplay as them. Instead I usually like to make a character with some core traits and themes and kinda embody that. As far as combat or roleplay preference goes I think I enjoy both just as much.
Nothing specific, I have a good load of characters in my vault that I could play, but I'm not particularly looking at just one that I wanna play next. Given that it's Curse of Strahd, I was thinking of maybe going more in a paladin / cleric direction and make a character that is pretty "innocent" and good natured but gets a bit more cold hearted or indifferent as they're exposed to the evil of the realm. Otherwise I could go something else, I'll probably decide based on the rest of the party.
I think I am pretty laid back person that does not try to argue outside the game or anything and just wants to enjoy rolling some dice with their fellow players. I've a good bit of DM experience as well so I know the effort that goes into it and will respect your time. I can also share sourcebooks on dndbeyond if that's something you're in need of (wink wink) lol
Hiya! Here's the filled out details, hope to hear back
Hi! First off, congrats on an amazing pitch! You've clearly put in a lot of time and effort into it and I want you to know it hasn't gone unnoticed. Answers to your questions are below:
Alan
He/him
isearchthedark
29
I started playing 5e during the quarantine, participating as a player in a few long-term online campaigns. Last month I ran an IRL homebrew oneshot as a DM for the first time, designed to introduce 5 long-terms friends of mine to the hobby.
Everyone with a passing interest in the game has heard of this module, but I've only played in homebrew campaigns, so I don't know any of the specific plot points or lore.
A chance to share a compelling narrative experience with the DM and the other players, all the while exploring a setting that has interested me for a good few years.
Being a DM is a very tough job, with many things to juggle and monitor. I expect a game that is fun for all, without displays of favoritism or an overtly critical attitude. That being said, I try to maintain realistic expectations: none of us are professionals, and that's perfectly fine.
My D&D 'imprinting' was critical role, and I like to follow a similar approach to the game: my favorite aspect is unravelling my character's and the other players' backstories, and developing character bonds and dynamics as well as with other npcs. I am very familiar with the rules of 5e, and take care to memorize everything my character can do as to not let the game drag during combat for the DM or other players. While not exactly 'min-maxed', I also make sure to create a build that makes thematic and mechanical sense. My love for roleplay extends to combat as well, but I take care not to hog the spotlight or take up too much time. I also have no problems with new or rusty payers: If the other players need to take their time or are unexperienced I never pressure them, offering advice when I feel is needed while never talking over the DM.
I have many character concepts. Normally, I like to have a conversation with the DM about the setting and various elements of the premise so I can adapt one of my character concepts to the campaign as seamlessly as possible.
I love D&D and I enjoy sharing this passion with other like-minded individuals without overreaching. If I had to attempt to self-define, I'd say that I am thoughtful, enthusiastic, collaborative and emotionally intelligent. I'd love to contribute in making an interactive story come to life, aiding in creating an environment in which we can all have fun and become invested in the game, DM included.
If these answers are satisfactory, don't hesitate to contact me on discord! I'd love to hear from you. Cheers!
Ciaran (Music Man)
I'm dedicated to doing character voices, I'm serious about roleplaying while not being a tightass and having fun with the game and my character. I am also a player that engages with the story as well as the backstory of other pcs. I've highly experienced in dnd so I can help with new players who need a hand with the rules! I'll leave it there, I hope to hear from you soon!
Luke
he/him
somegiddygoblin
16-18
I’ve been playing D&D for a few years as both a DM and a player.
I know the premise of the beginning of the campaign but know nothing else besides that.
Just a fun time with people with people who also love this game!
I expect you to have passion and dedication for the game, also fair rulings, not a lot other than that though.
Honestly I love all three pillars of the game, whether that be roleplaying (especially other players), tactical combat that involves planning with other players, and exploring interesting areas.
I was thinking of making a shifter ranger, his father would have been a were-something and he'd have grown up learning to keep himself safe from his father when the moon came out and also keeping his father safe from himself. I was also thinking of a cleric whose god has mysteriously led them to Strahd’s domain for reasons he doesn’t know. Honestly I could make a ton more character concepts though!
I'm dedicated to the campaigns I join and will reliably show up. My goal would be to raise the party up (roleplay and combat wise), and make sure everyones having a good time. I'm a decent note-taker, so I'll be able to catch players up to speed if they need it. Other than that I'm pretty chill and just in for a fun time!
Greetings!
My name is Reed and my pronouns are they/them. Accordingly, my discord is tempestuousreed.
I'm a young adult with a few years of D&D experience, both as a player and GM, though I have to say I haven't actually ever played a campaign to completion or anything resembling it, due to scheduling conflicts and things just not working out. Despite being in this community for a few years, I know very little about the Curse of Strahd apart from its name and general themes. I would look forward to being shocked and appalled.
As for what I'm looking for out of this game, I honestly just want to play D&D with a group of engaged party members, and this module seemed like a good place to start. I don't have many GM expectations aside from the bare minimum of maintaining a safe, fun, and fair community. Being GM is already such a massive undertaking, so I'd frankly be just happy to be there.
I'm pretty easygoing, and open to lots of different styles of play, but I do love some good-old-fashioned roleplaying and mystery solving. In terms of character concepts, I'm totally open to anything if certain classes/races fit the vibe of the game better, but I've been wanting to play a tabaxi rogue for a while.
As a player, I'm dedicated and easy to get along with. I love campaigns with moments of humor, but never to the point of detracting from the roleplay or game. All I want to do is tell a good story with cool people, so I'll do everything in my power to make that happen.
If you think I'd be a good fit for your game, feel free to message me on discord! If not, no hard feelings, and I hope you have an awesome campaign.
Hey My name is Connor and im 39. My character's name is Ronnoc Arden Dalehart. I'm male. My character's male lvl 1 Monk Human for my first class, second will be fighter, than druid. I wanted to make my race Githyanki, but don't have the option. Kinda new to D@D played a few times new to this app. As for my familiarity with Curse of Strahd I downloaded the book for free and read skimmed it over but still going through it. I'm seeking to test out my character and to have fun killing zombies, and as a monk I think I could be helpful. I love playing RPG games like Skyrim. Used to play the RTS Warcraft and StarCraft PC games, Diablo, Morrow Wind. My play style would be strategize, slow them down and deal as much damage as I can and attack from a distance when necessary than when the get close enough deal a death blow ,shock and awe to lower morale, regroup and heal up. The aspects I like the most is you can make your character anyway you want, ideals, faith E.C.T. Not to sure share my character sheet and back story, but it's pretty much copacetic to my other classes I want to add later on. I think this character will test "MY" abilities for my other character I want to make when I'm able to do so, traveling relm to relm. Expectations keep it real and have fun I guess. Hope to be a part of the Zombie killing fun and any undead creature we come across.
Name: Aero (she/they), 25
Discord: junkmother_
Experience: Very beginner lol, i've only got 3 sessions across 2 different campaigns under my belt currently
Familiarity with CoS: None! At least, none that I know of???
Expectations from Game: Really just to get more experience under my belt, while hopefully also making more D&D friends! Would be pretty cool to play a campaign that seems like one a lot of people are familiar with.
Expectations of GM: Really just to be um... considerate and respectful? I guess? Also, being helpful and patient is a huge plus! My other two GMs are so incredibly patient with me and I really appreciate that about them lol.
Playerstyle: I... don't know that I know that yet. But so far, I've really loved learning the lore and stories behind the campaigns I'm in! I think the part of D&D that appeals to me most is the roleplay/storytelling aspect. Combat is obviously super fun too, although I haven't experienced too much of it yet.
Character Concepts: None as of yet, although I know that I've really enjoyed playing a sorcerer elf. Currently I am playing a Bardsorc (wood elf) and a Rogue/Ranger (halfling), but for some reason paladin has been calling to me...
Elevator Pitch: I'd like to think I'm a pretty adaptable player! I, as a person, am naturally very curious and love a good puzzle/mystery, so my characters tend to reflect that a bit. I'm also just generally open-minded and I try my best to be as transparent and communicative as possible.
aero (she/they) ☆ 25 ☆ AuDHD ☆ junkmother
Name? Alex
Pronouns? He/him
Discord? troll_king_alex
Age? 33
Experience? About a year and a half running a campaign of my own and half a dozen one-shots as a player. I grew up reading the Drizzt novels though so I've always been around the game.
What is your familiarity with Curse of Strahd? I've never played it myself but I love vampires and gothic horror so I've hoped to play it since day 1.
What are you seeking out of this game? Wanted to play CoS since I first read about it hoping for a strong helping of RP and character building/development. I love a good fight but the emergent storytelling of DnD is really what does it for me.
What are your expectations of me as a GM? Consistent and fair in rulings and enthusiastic in encouraging player agency and character development.
Player style? Forever DM who loves the full breadth of DnD gameplay pillars. I love voicing all of my characters and focus more on flavor than power while I'm building them.
Do you have any character concepts? If so, what are they? Probably too many haha. Shadar-Kai hexblade, human blood hunter (if allowed) are the two that jump to mind.
Why should I choose you for this table? Your table sounds like the literal exact game that I'm hoping for with a focus on cinematic storytelling and immersive atmosphere. As a DM I'm always looking to tie my players further into the story and world and look forward to being able to lose myself as a player in yours.
Might as well give this a shot, haven't ever gotten to finish a Strahd Campaign before.
Name: Daniel
Pronouns: He/Him
Discord: Seeker9115
Age: 34
Experience: 18 years of TTRPG's mostly 5E.
Strahd Familiarity: Beyond your players guide I know its a meat grinder if you aren't careful and that it is a truly horror filled campaign, which can be fun based on what you're doing.
What I want from this game: To finish it and make friends whilst having a ton of fun Roleplaying with a bunch of interesting characters.
Playstyle: Heavy Roleplayer with a dash of combat enthusiast.
Character Concept: If allowed I have a lycan bloodhunter barbarian I wanna use, hes a great dwarven character with a fun backstory and a good fit for the setting.
Why Me: To put it simply, I don't work and am on Disability so I have plenty of time to play, the game times 1pm my time so I'll be wide awake and full of enthusiasim but most of all, I bring quality character accents and roleplay to the game if given the chance. Thanks for reading.
David
He/Him
TheRPTeen119
18
Beginner
I only know what I read.
Fun and utilizing some strategies Ive created for when I eventually play DND for the first time.
None of my friends are interested in the game or even know it exists.
Well I'm sure ull do your best.
Strategical and tactical.I also like to plan for the future.
The fact that it's so flexible and I can do whatever I want.
My character is a charismatic,quick-feeted and quick-witted young man who makes his own principles.He's quite prideful but won't let it get in the way of his thinking or decision making.
Umm...I guess because i would really make you rack your brain to come up with challenges for our group.
I believe I can make it more interesting.