Does allowing options from Van Richten's mean that characters can choose Dark Gifts? A slightly reflavored Living Shadow is looking pretty good for my character.
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Look at what you've done. You spoiled it. You have nobody to blame but yourself. Go sit and think about your actions.
Don't be mean. Rudeness is a vicious cycle, and it has to stop somewhere. Exceptions for things that are funny. Go to the current Competition of the Finest 'Brews! It's a cool place where cool people make cool things.
How I'm posting based on text formatting: Mod Hat Off - Mod Hat Also Off (I'm not a mod)
Aww, I really liked Betty. Little touches like how her left-handed stance throws off her opponents is a really nice touch that shows attention to how small things can have unexpected impacts.
In the final stretch. Please get in submissions (or make changes) by midnight CST tonight (I won't look until the morning, so you really have until tomorrow morning around 7am).
Could definitely use some alternate Cleric options (I think I'd open up Grave domain as it is a perfect fit). Also no straight Wizards, which I've read might be important. I will also caution that choices will have consequences. Keep in mind this is a gothic horror game, so flavor is important. Most important.
I also will likely allow options from Van Richten's guide, so if that alters some previously submitted characters, feel free to edit submission.
I'm really looking forward to running this. It is going to be a commitment, which is hard for PBP, but hopefully we'll somehow make it.
If you prefer a Cleric instead of another bard, I am happy to play one of those too. You can then ignore the Bard idea.
Thurmur is a little sullen and grumpy, and takes time to warm up to people - but once people get to know him, they accept him as a friendly and helpful companion.
Biggest Fear:
Thurmur is very religious, and wants to give everyone a proper send-off into the afterlife - which is why he became a Grave Domain cleric. His biggest fear is that when he himself needs a Cleric to help prepare for the last great adventure in the life beyond, he may not be granted the same kindness and forever be bound to this plane.
Three Interesting Details About Them:
Despite being a man of religion, and having had a good amount of education in this area, Thurmur is also supersticious. He would never admits this to the senior priest who taught him, but even with the gods's blessing he would still rather also throw salt over his shoulder, avoid going under ladders, etc.
Thurmur is a mountain drawf by background, and he used to work as a smith and mason - but he has grown to loathe the mountains and the endless rock. He really wants to go out and explore the world beyond the confines of a mineshaft. Hidden in between the back pages of his priest's books and writings, you may find drawings and images of various faraway lands and places he would like to visit.
Thurmur is usually armoured, and has a magnificent beard - but when he takes his helmet off, you can sometimes see that he's getting a bit thin on top and has combed his hair over. He is very sensitive about this, so best not to point it out though.
Appearance (including Dress):
Dressed in the outfit typical of his clan, you will generally find Thurmur wearing thick metal armor, a helmet, and generally so many layers of clothes that between this and his beard, there is hardly any skin to look at.
Unique Hobby or Habit:
Due to his superstitious nature, you may find he often re-arranges his bed and campsite in line with what he will claim to be "religious articles", but which usually is simple housewife's supertition..
Core Beliefs:
Has a firm and unshakable belief in his gods, and his divine mission to guide the dying to their rest..
Why is this a good character for this campaign?
Grave domain cleric seems a very good fit for the Gothic background to this campaign, and should allow for some great fun in terms of roleplay possibilities.
Just to answer the other questions again:
Have you ever played CoS? Did you finish? Have you played CoS in a PbP setting? Did you finish? (combing the two together, as the same answer for both)
Both questions: Never played it. I'm currently DM'ing a PBP Strahd campaign, just because I love the idea of the campaign and it's the closest I've been able to get to playing, but I would love to actually play myself too.
What interests you about CoS?
I think it's a very compelling campaign with a proper story, deep background, real developments and progression, character motivations (even for NPCs and Villains), secrets to uncover, etc. As opposed to some campaigns that are really just weak excuses to link together multiple combat encounters. CoS is much closer to collectively writing a gothic novel - rather than just doing a dungeon crawl with random encounters and little narrative.
Aww, I really liked Betty. Little touches like how her left-handed stance throws off her opponents is a really nice touch that shows attention to how small things can have unexpected impacts.
Thanks but I am really in too many games already so was on the fence if I should apply or not... Then when what is allowed changed at last minute *shrug* I hope it's a great game for whoever gets chosen though.
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We're doing one small murder-y thing for a bigger, better reason. The ends justify the means.
The changes to what was allowed doesn’t affect me since I won’t have access to it unless it’s shared with the campaign. I don’t have a subscription so I only have access to the free stuff rn. Just wanted to put that out there due to the feats thing. I only have grappler unless someone shares content or the dm is ok with editing my sheet (I’ve had a few dms do that without share if content.)
Anyways I won’t mind sticking with the free stuff if none of that is an option. It will not affect my rp one bit.
Thanks to everyone for your submissions. I know personally how much it sucks to not get into a campaign you really want to get into. It was difficult to choose, to be sure. I probably could have randomly selected and gotten a good group, but given this campaign, randomness did not make sense.
So, since it was requested, here’s the list of who I have chosen - they have all been notified, but if one of them chooses to decline, I might come back.
Legion4
Tallgrass_prarie
Houndarchon7
Reliq05
Barbosathegod
Gseno65
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Writer • Podcaster • Professional Gamemaster
playing Jin Wei, human (Kara-tur) way of the Four Elements Monk in the Princes of the Apocalypse
I know you already chose players, but I would like to submit my application in case you have some cancelations:
Have I played CoS: No
Have I played CoS in a PbP setting: No
What interests you about Cos: I love that it's a darker campaign. I wouldn't have the opportunity to run it with my in-person group, as they don't typically like this sort of content, so I'm extremely interested in seeing what it's like!
Backstory: As a young forest gnome, Jelssa Celphine Nyfi Xaphina Ellywick Vandala Nackel - known commonly as Jelly - always knew she was different. Whereas other forest gnomes used their natural knack for illusion and inherent quickness and stealth to avoid contact with the outside world, Jelly turned those skills towards engaging with the outside world. While her friends would run or fade into the underbrush at the sound of approaching horses, Jelly would sneak close to the road and use her powers of illusion to good-heartedly prank passersby. Her curiosity, impulsivity, and inclination for good-natured trickery prompted her to take up adventuring as a means to squeeze every ounce of enjoyment out of life. Accompanied by her loyal badger Constance, she jumped on a merchant's wagon that was passing through her clan's land and never looked back.
Her adventures introduced her to the mysteries of magic. Her insatiable desire for knowledge yielded a small collection of spells, but she did not know how to use them until she met Erevan Goldpetal, an elderly high elf wizard. Jelly stumbled upon him in the ruins of an old castle's attic. He was bleeding and unconscious, suffering from a recent attack. His spellbook lay at his feet. The allure of knowledge was great, but she couldn't bring herself to leave someone to die. She patched his wounds and patiently attended to him until he returned to consciousness. Too hurt to be moved and too weak to conjure spells, Erevan remained in the ruined attic. Jelly continued to help him, refusing to leave his side despite repeated rebuffs. Erevan repaid her by teaching her the foundations of magic. Unfortunately, his wounds were too grave: he passed away a mere fortnight after awaking. The lessons she learned from him formed the foundation of her magical practice. She hopes to honor his memory through a life of service and an endless pursuit of knowledge.
Personality: Bubbly, fun-loving, silly, a little reckless, and deeply inquisitive.
Biggest Fear: A mundane life.
Three interesting details about them:
Has previously been shot out of a cannon - and went back for more.
Has a small badger friend named Constance (think English badger, not American badger)
Loves red licorice, but despises black licorice.
Appearance (including dress): Brown hair with lighter brown highlights, emerald green eyes, 3'3", 38 pounds, 120 years old. Her hair is pulled up into loose buns by hair ties made with small purple beads; some pieces of hair drape down and poke out of the buns. Dressed in a well-worn robe lined with badger fur (sustainably plucked from Constance with great care). The robe itself is a light gray with small streaks of purple throughout. Small speckles of gold dot the entirety of the robe. Her shoes are black, show obvious signs of extensive travel, and curl up at the toes.
Unique hobby or trait: I love creating fun outfits for Constance in my free time. She endures it begrudgingly.
Core beliefs:
Loyalty - we are nothing if we don't look after each other.
Knowledge is worth sacrifice.
My goal in life is to make an impact - my life would be valueless without making a difference.
Why is this a good character for this campaign?: Jelly's personality is a good foil for the general mood of CoS. I think it would affect her general disposition/attitude in significant ways, which is great for character development.
Does allowing options from Van Richten's mean that characters can choose Dark Gifts? A slightly reflavored Living Shadow is looking pretty good for my character.
Look at what you've done. You spoiled it. You have nobody to blame but yourself. Go sit and think about your actions.
Don't be mean. Rudeness is a vicious cycle, and it has to stop somewhere. Exceptions for things that are funny.
Go to the current Competition of the Finest 'Brews! It's a cool place where cool people make cool things.
How I'm posting based on text formatting: Mod Hat Off - Mod Hat Also Off (I'm not a mod)
Aww, I really liked Betty. Little touches like how her left-handed stance throws off her opponents is a really nice touch that shows attention to how small things can have unexpected impacts.
If you prefer a Cleric instead of another bard, I am happy to play one of those too. You can then ignore the Bard idea.
https://www.dndbeyond.com/characters/106120033/NXYkg6
Character Name: Thurmur Halfrock
Race: Mountain Dwarf
Class: Cleric (grave domain)
Background: Guild Artisan
Personality:
Thurmur is a little sullen and grumpy, and takes time to warm up to people - but once people get to know him, they accept him as a friendly and helpful companion.
Biggest Fear:
Thurmur is very religious, and wants to give everyone a proper send-off into the afterlife - which is why he became a Grave Domain cleric. His biggest fear is that when he himself needs a Cleric to help prepare for the last great adventure in the life beyond, he may not be granted the same kindness and forever be bound to this plane.
Three Interesting Details About Them:
Appearance (including Dress):
Dressed in the outfit typical of his clan, you will generally find Thurmur wearing thick metal armor, a helmet, and generally so many layers of clothes that between this and his beard, there is hardly any skin to look at.
Unique Hobby or Habit:
Due to his superstitious nature, you may find he often re-arranges his bed and campsite in line with what he will claim to be "religious articles", but which usually is simple housewife's supertition..
Core Beliefs:
Has a firm and unshakable belief in his gods, and his divine mission to guide the dying to their rest..
Why is this a good character for this campaign?
Grave domain cleric seems a very good fit for the Gothic background to this campaign, and should allow for some great fun in terms of roleplay possibilities.
Just to answer the other questions again:
Have you ever played CoS? Did you finish? Have you played CoS in a PbP setting? Did you finish? (combing the two together, as the same answer for both)
Both questions: Never played it. I'm currently DM'ing a PBP Strahd campaign, just because I love the idea of the campaign and it's the closest I've been able to get to playing, but I would love to actually play myself too.
What interests you about CoS?
I think it's a very compelling campaign with a proper story, deep background, real developments and progression, character motivations (even for NPCs and Villains), secrets to uncover, etc. As opposed to some campaigns that are really just weak excuses to link together multiple combat encounters. CoS is much closer to collectively writing a gothic novel - rather than just doing a dungeon crawl with random encounters and little narrative.
Thanks but I am really in too many games already so was on the fence if I should apply or not... Then when what is allowed changed at last minute *shrug* I hope it's a great game for whoever gets chosen though.
We're doing one small murder-y thing for a bigger, better reason. The ends justify the means.
-- Eleanor Shellstrop
That’s too bad. I liked your submission.
Writer • Podcaster • Professional Gamemaster
playing Jin Wei, human (Kara-tur) way of the Four Elements Monk in the Princes of the Apocalypse
The changes to what was allowed doesn’t affect me since I won’t have access to it unless it’s shared with the campaign. I don’t have a subscription so I only have access to the free stuff rn. Just wanted to put that out there due to the feats thing. I only have grappler unless someone shares content or the dm is ok with editing my sheet (I’ve had a few dms do that without share if content.)
Anyways I won’t mind sticking with the free stuff if none of that is an option. It will not affect my rp one bit.
On that note… Good luck everyone!
Would you be kind enough to post the final roster for us curious types? I will completely understand why if you don't want to!
Looks like no matter who you pick you're going to have a great group! A lot of wonderful submissions! Kudos all around!
Thanks to everyone for your submissions. I know personally how much it sucks to not get into a campaign you really want to get into. It was difficult to choose, to be sure. I probably could have randomly selected and gotten a good group, but given this campaign, randomness did not make sense.
So, since it was requested, here’s the list of who I have chosen - they have all been notified, but if one of them chooses to decline, I might come back.
Writer • Podcaster • Professional Gamemaster
playing Jin Wei, human (Kara-tur) way of the Four Elements Monk in the Princes of the Apocalypse
Thanks!
I know you already chose players, but I would like to submit my application in case you have some cancelations:
Character Name: Jelssa Celpine Nyfi Xaphina Ellywick Vandala Nackel (AKA Jelly)
Race: Forest Gnome
Class: Wizard
Background: Sage
Backstory: As a young forest gnome, Jelssa Celphine Nyfi Xaphina Ellywick Vandala Nackel - known commonly as Jelly - always knew she was different. Whereas other forest gnomes used their natural knack for illusion and inherent quickness and stealth to avoid contact with the outside world, Jelly turned those skills towards engaging with the outside world. While her friends would run or fade into the underbrush at the sound of approaching horses, Jelly would sneak close to the road and use her powers of illusion to good-heartedly prank passersby. Her curiosity, impulsivity, and inclination for good-natured trickery prompted her to take up adventuring as a means to squeeze every ounce of enjoyment out of life. Accompanied by her loyal badger Constance, she jumped on a merchant's wagon that was passing through her clan's land and never looked back.
Her adventures introduced her to the mysteries of magic. Her insatiable desire for knowledge yielded a small collection of spells, but she did not know how to use them until she met Erevan Goldpetal, an elderly high elf wizard. Jelly stumbled upon him in the ruins of an old castle's attic. He was bleeding and unconscious, suffering from a recent attack. His spellbook lay at his feet. The allure of knowledge was great, but she couldn't bring herself to leave someone to die. She patched his wounds and patiently attended to him until he returned to consciousness. Too hurt to be moved and too weak to conjure spells, Erevan remained in the ruined attic. Jelly continued to help him, refusing to leave his side despite repeated rebuffs. Erevan repaid her by teaching her the foundations of magic. Unfortunately, his wounds were too grave: he passed away a mere fortnight after awaking. The lessons she learned from him formed the foundation of her magical practice. She hopes to honor his memory through a life of service and an endless pursuit of knowledge.
Personality: Bubbly, fun-loving, silly, a little reckless, and deeply inquisitive.
Biggest Fear: A mundane life.
Three interesting details about them:
Appearance (including dress): Brown hair with lighter brown highlights, emerald green eyes, 3'3", 38 pounds, 120 years old. Her hair is pulled up into loose buns by hair ties made with small purple beads; some pieces of hair drape down and poke out of the buns. Dressed in a well-worn robe lined with badger fur (sustainably plucked from Constance with great care). The robe itself is a light gray with small streaks of purple throughout. Small speckles of gold dot the entirety of the robe. Her shoes are black, show obvious signs of extensive travel, and curl up at the toes.
Unique hobby or trait: I love creating fun outfits for Constance in my free time. She endures it begrudgingly.
Core beliefs:
Why is this a good character for this campaign?: Jelly's personality is a good foil for the general mood of CoS. I think it would affect her general disposition/attitude in significant ways, which is great for character development.
Ability Scores: 10, 16, 11, 18, 12, 16
I have another Curse of Strahd PBP campaign staring up. Please PM me if you are interested...
Writer • Podcaster • Professional Gamemaster
playing Jin Wei, human (Kara-tur) way of the Four Elements Monk in the Princes of the Apocalypse
Months late to join in on the fun, but just curious: How did it go?