Calamity strikes the heart of the frontier in the far north, and an elder evil stirs...
Nestled in the fringing ranges of the Spine of the World lies the Ithil Valley, a frigid land that has been carved out of the mountains by the Rimetongue Glacier. Despite the harsh conditions, the region had seen a growing population as of late. Diverse settlements of humans, dwarves, elves, halflings, and other ancestries dotted the length of the valley, all the way to the coast of the Sea of Moving Ice. The hardy people of this land made their living by hunting, fishing, trapping, and occasionally acting as guides for those who believed the legends of treasure trapped beneath the ice.
Though life in the Ithil Valley is difficult, and sometimes unforgiving, it is also very mundane for the most part. Or at least it was, before disaster fell upon it.
Lighting up the dark valley as though by daylight, a fiery comet crashed upon this pristine land, striking the eastern terminus of the Rimetongue Glacier. The tremendous energy released by the comet's impact melted the glacier entirely, releasing deadly floods and landslides upon the valley. Earthquakes rocked the land, and nearly all of the settlements in the valley were washed away, buried, or otherwise destroyed. The lucky few who survived, now homeless refugees, began to flock en masse to the one settlement that had survived the deadly onslaught of natural disasters: Tomar's Crossing.
In the midst of this chaos, some have sought to take advantage. Roving bands of goblinoids kidnap unsuspecting refugees making their way to the valley's last safe haven, while bandits rob others of all they have left. Starving animals stalk the land, lashing out at anything that could make for a meal.
Word of the disaster has shot up and down the Sword Coast, along with rumors of ancient ruins, once trapped beneath the ice, now open and ripe for the taking.
Strange and deadly creatures stalk the land now, while the people of Tomar's Crossing struggle to deal with the massive influx of refugees. Amidst the rising chaos, what role will you play?
I am looking for at least four players to take part in this dungeon delving adventure in the far north! Here are some of the asks:
Be able to post at least once per day. Life happens, so I won't bite your head off if you miss a day, but heads up are mucho appreciated.
Be ready for some role playing. If you're just looking for nothing but "haha dice go brrrr and smash monster," this is likely not the campaign for you. There will be politicking, problem solving, and character story arcs.
Be willing to stick around. This is a long campaign in the making, capable of seeing all tiers of play. I understand if you have to drop for some reason, but I'm not interested in people who are habitually flakey.
The adventure will start at level 1, with milestone experience. Roll for stats or Point Buy. With a feat taken at level 1(No V.Human for this reason). Any published content is allowed. If you aren't sure on something, ask:
Name: Race/Class: Backstory: Hook:
Here are option hooks for you to use:
A close friend of yours disappeared during the glacial melt catastrophe, and you've travelled to Tomar's Crossing to find them.
A relative of yours was in Safeharbor when the disaster struck, and is now a refugee stuck outside of Tomar's Crossing. They've written to you for help, begging for food and supplies.
You used to live in the valley, and are now yourself a refugee arriving at Tomar's Crossing.
You received visions of the disaster before it happened, a disembodied voice in a dream instructed you to Tomar's Crossing to help put an end to the chaos.
You've heard rumors of treasure-filled ruins uncovered by the disaster and have come to fill your pockets.
A relative of yours was murdered by some of the roaming goblinoids in the valley, you're here to get revenge.
Chatter among the Coast has rumored that it was no natural disaster that wiped out the valley, but a force of evil. You've come to investigate.
You heard of the single village that survived the destruction in the valley, now flooded with refugees. You've come to aid those in need in any way you can.
Some unnamed NPC held a secret to your past. You were on your way to meet them when the disaster struck. You survived, and are hoping to find them at Tomar's Crossing.
Any other questions? Just ask!
edit: I added a poll for stat generation methods. I've gotten some feedback in PM and just want to see if this rings true.
Update: You can go back and roll stats for your character, start rolling you're making a new one. In either case, you can also default back to point buy if you wish.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Name: Ander Stormwind Race/Class: Half Elf/Land Druid(Arctic) Backstory: Ander was the son of two loving parents a human father and an Elven mother. He lived in a small village in the valley and grew up learning to survive and adapt to his frigid surroundings. As he neared his 24th birthday the comet came. People screamed as his village burned, Ander ran to find his parents but he was to late. Ander managed to save a few people from burning buildings before the village was a mere crisp. Him and the other survivors left to find a new home. On the way while Ander was looking for food he got stuck in a snow storm and got seperate from the others. He woke in Tomar’s Crossing with strange abilities. He is now looking for an answer to his power and is eager to save those who can not save themselves. Hook: You used to live in the valley, and are now yourself a refugee in Tomar’s Crossing.
Name: Dural Ironhill Race/Class: Hill Dwarf/ Ranger Backstory: Dural, son of Noral, son of Noru, comes from one of the early families to settle in Ithil valley. This dwarf-clan claimed a fine hillock near the sloping valley wall as their own, and found therein the legendary Songhammer caves, which are now, alas, no more. Once relatively wealthy, for a clan living apart from the towns creeping gradually northward at glacial pace, Dural made his early living by seasonal trapping and guiding visitors about the local hills, with particular emphasis on the family's tourist-friendly schloss above the aforementioned scenic and hauntingly beautiful caves. For those caught trespassing, or worse, poaching, any that survived found that dwarves make arrowheads every bit as biting as axeblades. When the sky tore apart the northern end of the valley, the Ironhill's made good time heading south, their treasures and belongings for the most part carried by sturdy animals and willing backs. Still, the loss deeply wounded the clan leaders pride, most of whom retired from their positions as the heads of the familiar-mercantile business to live out their days in stone-faced shame. The new leaders of clan Ironhill, Dural's siblings and cousins, voted to resettle the Ironhill's in unclaimed territories north of Luskan. Dural, one of the few dissenting voices, refused to so easily abandon the valley, and parted ways from his clan to stake out a new living. In the days since the clan's exodus, he has made his living hunting the nearby forests, staying in a shared tenement of rubble and repurposed scrap on the edge of town. Thus far he's resisted efforts by the local magistrates to join their militia forces, but the prospect of a steady, if meager, income is becoming more and more tempting with each passing day, as the forest creatures flee, and the cold nights echo with the wild screams of bloodthirsty goblin-kin. He'd jump at any chance at adventure and treasure, if it meant avoiding the sacrifice of his pride and freedom, even in exchange for fair wages. Hook: You used to live in the valley, and are now yourself a refugee arriving at Tomar's Crossing.
Question: I, unfortunately, have next to nothing unlocked with regard to feats and subclasses on dndbeyond. Is content sharing available, and if not are you agreeable to homebrew workarounds that accomplish the same thing mechanically speaking? with subclasses this is far more difficult, though if it is not available I am satisfied with what is freely available in the ranger class. Just wanted to throw the question in there. In any case, I would like to take the dwarven fortitude feat from Xanathar's - extra constitution and a fun hit die-expending mechanic on dodge.
I would be very much interested. Are you accepting beginners?
In case it's okay for you, here is the character. I can change if she doesn't fit into a balanced party because of her class.
Name: Kea Race/Class: Tiefling / Cleric (life) Backstory: The only daughter of traveling merchants who died far from home due to a disease. Kea spent the majority of her life in the village they were buried, meddling in the arcane in hope of bringing them back to life. After a while of practising necromancy, the locals grew suspicious and she left before she would have to answer for what she had been doing. She was wandering for a while, taking on jobs whenever there was any. On one occasion she had no shelter for the night and got invited in by the local priests. By that time, she had not been practising magic for a little while, and in the temple she finally got rid of her spellbook. That was the first time she was touched by the divine. As she confessed to the priests, they gifted her a holy symbol. She took her leave soon after, still unsure in the purpose of her new-found talents, when she heard of the events in the North. Hook: Partly, she chose to set off towards Tomar's Crossing to investigate the mystery; partly to find a job and - in her general experience - there is much more to do when there is a crisis.
Bryce born in a small fishing village, grew tired of the simplistic life style. He loved the idea of being an Adventurer. As soon as he could he left his village leaving behind his family which consists of his parents and his little sister "Vivian". Bryce traveled down to daggerford before heading to Waterdeep the city of splendors.
There he trained as soldier but he would eventually learn that the stories he heard as a child were far from the truth. He spent a few years learning that people weren't as noble as they seemed. Between corrupt nolbes, merchant and even his own superiors Bryce grew tired of not being able to help those in need. He learned that a local Lord Alliance member was in need of a new squire. Bryce jumped for the opportunity, as he spent a year with the Alliance he learned of Helm and his teachings.
Everything was finally following in place, at least until an unknown letter had reached Bryce's hand. Bryce sent letters before to his family and he received a few from them as well but this was different. It was from his sister, usually his mother wrote to him. A comet had cause severe damage to the area of thier village was basically wiped off the earth in a flood and that thier parents had unfortunately passed on leaving her alone. She left instruction on where she was and that the area wasn't safe as goblins and bandits began to run amok. As Bryce continued to read, he realized this must have been the reason why Helm found his way into his life. With no hesitation Bryce left the Lord's Alliance and began making his way to Tomar's Crossings as fasr as he could.
Hook: A relative of yours was in Safeharbor when the disaster struck, and is now a refugee stuck outside of Tomar's Crossing. They've written to you for help, begging for food and supplies.
Name: Kenzie LaFleur Race/Class: Halfling / Bard (College of Eloquence)
Backstory:
Kenzie’s hands shook involuntarily as she dropped her makeup brush on to her dressing table. She had not been Tomar’s Crossing long and felt distinctly out of place there. Taking a deep breath, she wiped the tears from her eyes – she had to be appear strong, it was her job. In times like these people looked to performers, such as she, for escape and to lift spirits. She looked into a now cracked mirror. Her eyes were blotchy, but it was nothing that could not be concealed. “The show must go on” she muttered with a huff as she picked up the brush and started re-applying the makeup.
Kenzie had been travelling to Tomar’s Crossing when disaster had struck. Now the place was wall-to-wall with refuges, all requiring a break from the horrors of their lives. She smiled at herself in the mirror, picked up her lute, and headed out the door for the local Inn.
Bitter, glum faces greeted her as Kenzy walked out in to the street. She would not let it phase her. She was here to bring happiness into an otherwise bleak world, warmth into the coldness. Besides, she had been working on her act for a while now and was looking particularly stunning - if she did say so herself.
The gig went well. Though the takings were quite meagre, Kenzie was pleased to note that many people had joined in whilst she played and she had even noticed a smile here-and-there. She always experienced a few nerves before a gig, but was able to push them back sure enough.
Stuffing her hand inside her trouser pocket Kenzie pulled out a crumpled letter - the reason she had made the journey to Tomar’s Crossing to begin with. The letter had dropped subtle hints about her and her family’s past; things that strangers should not know. It had instructed her to make her way to Tomar’s Crossing where “all would be revealed”. The letter was unsigned, but stated that contact with her would be made.
Kenzie sat in a quiet corner of the inn, drinking deeply from her pint of ale (let it not be said that a Halfling cannot hold their drinks!), staring at the letter in her hand. Did the writer of this letter know of the events that were going to befall Safeharbor? She shivered at the thought, “No, that would be impossible” she whispered to herself. It did seem awfully odd timing though.
Hook: Some unnamed NPC held a secret to your past. You were on your way to meet them when the disaster struck. You survived, and are hoping to find them at Tomar's Crossing.
Svfra grew up as the only child of her parents, in Silverymoon in the north. They were not particularly affluent, but they got by, living in the basements beneath the Vault of the Sages, one of the Conclave’s most coveted and prestigious libraries. Lack of siblings did not mean lack of playmates, as they shared the basement spaces with a small, tight-knit community, consisting primarily of other deep gnomes, though there was also a warren of kobolds. Indeed, Svfra and her childhood mates got up to much mischief in and around the university grounds.
Svfra’s mother, a bookbinder, passed some years back; but her father continues to assist the night librarians, mostly filing. Her dad had never displayed much talent in the field of magic, but the tall and perilous ladders had proven incentive enough for the old gnome to master the art of levitation. Sometimes Svfra had caught him indulging in his own research and studies, though he was ever secretive about it.
Spending much of her time above in the libraries, Svfra found herself attracted to the studies of Anthropology and Archaeology, and pursued her higher education with a passion. Ultimately, after what seemed a lifetime at the university, she struck out for adventure. She would make discoveries of her own, and write treatises on them that others could read, sitting about in libraries. She was quite done with sitting about herself!
Except in meditation, that is. Of late, Svfra has been reading an old text purported to have been from the Spirit Soaring (Edificant Library). With its passages and illustrations, she has been teaching herself the ways of... whatever monastic tradition had created it. It is written in a dated script, and she hasn’t gotten that far into it, as yet, with her travels. Apart from the breathing exercises, there were also martial instructions and illustrations, even an appendix on herbalism and medicine. It will be a long path, made all the longer for being self-taught.
Svfra was spending some time studying Uthgardt tribal culture near Raven Rock, when the comet struck. Rumors of newly exposed ruins and ancient cities were enough to pull her from that assignment, and she immediately headed north.
Class (Subclass): Genie (Marid) Warlock, Pact of the Tome (At level 3)
Backstory:
Tributary (born Maven Zanim Shezan) was raised on stories from his mother about what a wonderful man his father was. As his mother told it Sultan Zanim the Learned was a kind soul who loved telling tales, fiercely protective of her when he could be around, and had set them both up in a rather nice home in Waterdeep. As Tributary had never met his father in person, his Genasi heritage and the magic he could wield were all he had to truly go on. As the young man was not born with natural physical prowess, agility, amazing intellect.....or any skills naturally with which help keep him alive in this dangerous world Zanim did leave behind a book within an unr, which his mother gave him at the age of 16. Reading this odd tome brought a sense of comfort, a sense of purpose and most importantly a shred of the Marid's essence in the form of his growing magical talents.
After years of studying the book which never seemed to run out of new things to read, Tributary found he had difficulty sleeping without consulting the book. Writing down his experiences, his tales, examining the bits of lore within and enjoying some of the (what he believed) tall tales aiding him in relaxing for a night's rest. Whenever Tributary wrote within this book the ink seemed to be drank by the book, and he could only guess that it was his father's way of reading these tales. The recent unrest and chaos seemed like the perfect place to perhaps finally experience a tale firsthand that may actually be worthy of being next to such amazing tales as his father left for him.
Hook used: Chatter among the Coast has rumored that it was no natural disaster that wiped out the valley, but a force of evil. You've come to investigate.
Withdrawing was accepted elsewhere and don't want to load up on too much at once
I've got interest. Gotta go to work shortly; dotting to edit in an application after work. (pre and post work will also be my usual posting times).
Not sure what hook I'd opt with yet. Are those specific options or a framework for the hooks? I like the idea of coming up for the treasure, but with the intention of using most of it to help the refugees; keeping a little as a finder's fee. Or combining the "used to live in the village" and the "someone had my secret to the past"
Off hand, Assuming the restricted damage types aren't a problem (Fire, Acid, Poison). I'd be looking at a Alchemist, with possible short dip in Warlock-Genie at level 2 due to backstory). Feat would likely be one of; Poisoner, Mobile, Healer, or Crusher. WOuld have to look at stuff again. A poisoining whipping alchemist sounds funny This game so far sounds like it might be a fair fit for a character I've been trying to find one for.
Backstory: Growing up a Goliath, there didn't seem to be many opportunities in the civilized world besides physical pursuits so when he was of age, Vandal joined the military. He spent several years there, slowly gaining the respect of his fellow soldiers, proving that he could be trusted, and making a few friends along the way.
When his service was done, Vandal headed north to the wild snowy frontier because he'd heard that there were opportunities there for a man like himself. Once there, he eventually fell in with a group that needed security while traveling into the frozen wastes for an archeological expedition. While there, Vandal became interested in an intellectual pursuit for the first time and the old man leading the expedition, a human named Cyrus Osterly, kindly took the young Goliath under his wing and started teaching him about archeology and ancient civilizations. Vandal had never had this sort of kindllness shown to him and quickly formed a bond with the old man.
While on his way back from Tomar's Crossing to pick up supplies and a new member of the dig, a tremendous explosion occurred, followed by a brilliant flash of light and earthquakes!
Now, all Vandal wants to do is to make his way back north to the dig site and try to find out what happened and rescue Cyrus if he can....
Hook: Vandal wants to head into the disaster area to find/help Cyrus if he can, but he knows traveling there alone is likely suicide so he'll need companions if he hopes to succeed
Race/Class: Mark of Warding Dwarf/ Wizard (Divination eventually)
Backstory: Uthar Wardensworn, formally known as Uthar Lornir, Is an initiate into a secretive alliance known as the Wardensworn. The wardensworn are protectors of the realm, and first responders to instances of chaos and evil that descend upon the land. As such, they recruit members with an aptness to divination and abjuration magic to predict these unsavory events and respond as quickly as possibly to quell imminent threat, and reducing the damage it does to the commonfolk and the security of the realm. Uthar, hoping to earn a place amongst the ranks, was eager to act on his vision, and jumped at the opportunity to investigate the disturbance in the region.
Hook: You received visions of the disaster before it happened, a disembodied voice in a dream instructed you to Tomar's Crossing to help put an end to the chaos.
Experience/Bonus player info
Be able to post at least once per day. Life happens, so I won't bite your head off if you miss a day, but heads up are mucho appreciated. I've played in numerous play by post campaigns, and have been active in at least one at any given time in the last 2 years. I have most recently been a DM/mod of a mmo-type Dnd PBP campaign, and have good amount of experience navigating Avrae the Discord bot, adding snippets and aliases etc if thats the route this campaign is headed.
Be ready for some role playing. If you're just looking for nothing but "haha dice go brrrr and smash monster," this is likely not the campaign for you. There will be politicking, problem solving, and character story arcs. 50-75% of the time spent in the campaign mentioned above was downtime, so most of the experience was roleplaying characters interacting in the city, rather than actually dungeoneering. That being said, I am no stranger to roleplay and love the intimate dialog between players.
Be willing to stick around. This is a long campaign in the making, capable of seeing all tiers of play. I understand if you have to drop for some reason, but I'm not interested in people who are habitually flakey. Again - no stranger to this. Highly active, several posts a day - sometimes my fiance would get upset with just how much attention I was paying to the campaign!
Name: Tessa Frostthorn Race/Class: Levistus Tiefling Bard (Lore eventually) Backstory: In the small town of Equesford (or a similar town in this world), so named for the shallows in the river where wild horses used to cross, there is an inn. The Rising Phoenix Inn is run by a pair of tiefling ex-adventurers, the Frostthorns. Kalen and Pheria purchased the inn when they opted to retire from adventuring following the discovery that Pheria was pregnant. Over the years, they had three daughters. Kalea, the oldest, despite showing prowess with a blade also was a talented brewer so opted to assist her parents with the inn. The youngest, Pherali, was born with magical abilities in her blood even more so than your average tiefling. Upon coming of age, she joined an adventuring party and left home for the great beyond. This brings us to the middle child, Tessa. Tessa while a bit shy was a talented musician. Preferring the viol as her instrument of choice she entertained the patrons of The Rising Phoenix Inn anytime she could be persuaded to do so. Her preference for activities lies in the delving of old forgotten locations trying to pull the secrets from what she finds within. She has left home looking for people with who she might delve for secrets.
Hook: She has heard rumors of treasure/secret-filled ruins uncovered by the disaster and have come to fill your pockets.
I have concepts for a stars druid or celestial warlock as well if one of those fits better.
Backstory: Like most of his people, Iorythas was born in far away child, made to participate in the evil rituals to their dark gods. Eventually he was sent out to Port Nyanzaru in order to use his more human like appearance to spy on them and learn more of what the growing number of outsiders wanted.
In his time their he learned many things, even learning of a shipment of items that were supposed to be of immense magical power. Seeing this as an advantage he managed to sneak aboard the ship, finding a strange orb (his arcane focus). As he touched it a strange voice began to enter his mind, speaking in a language that was beyond his comprehension but somehow understandable. 'Serve me and gain power... All I ask is that you find lost items... Bring them together and I shall make you a god among your people...." With these words filling his mind, the power seeking nature of his people made Iorythas jump at the chance, soon leaving Chult to head towards Faerun. For several months he would travel looking for signs of the items his patron wanted.
Hook: You've heard rumors of treasure-filled ruins uncovered by the disaster and have come to fill your pockets. (His patron has been sending him visions of something in the ruins, something they want to own or at least use)
I really like rolling personally, but I am good with either. Also since it is a point of contention with a lot of DMs I am curious are you good with Customizing your Origin from Tasha's? Just the ASI swapping not the Custom Lineage that is basically V. Human but for everyone.
I like rolling, and from what I’ve seen, the scores tend to be better... mostly. It is nice to have the security of point-buy in reserve, as a back-up. If it is just one or the other, I would take point-buy, to remove the risk of a truly awful set.
Thesda's family was traveling through Waterdeep when sickness befell them. Both of her parents passed away and she was left stranded and alone at the age of seven in an unfamiliar city with no one to turn to. Ben, one of the city's many urchins, found her starving and half dead in the alley behind Mistress D'Lang's brothel. She looked so small and pathetic that he was unable to leaver her behind (at least that's what Ben says when he tells the story). Ben took Thesda back to his small space in the upper story of an abandoned building that he called home. He nursed her back to health and taught her how to survive on the streets, she had a strong survival instinct and didn't let much stand in her way. She eagerly soaked up all the teachings that Ben could provide and they were inseparable for years to come. She soon earned the nickname of Slink for her talent at sneaking and slinking around and she has gone by that name ever since. For her, Thesda died all those years ago along with her former life and she has never looked back. One of her favorite past times was keeping tabs on a particular lord. Lord Norgrave was well known in Waterdeep for all the interesting places he went, all the interesting people he knew, and Slink’s favorite, all the interesting treasures he brought back from his explorations. Her goal in life is to become an adventurer/collector extraordinaire and she is ready to leave Waterdeep and reach for her future. This sounds like the perfect opportunity to start on that path.
Hook: You've heard rumors of treasure-filled ruins uncovered by the disaster and have come to seek unique artifacts for your future collection and fill your pockets
Calamity strikes the heart of the frontier in the far north, and an elder evil stirs...
Nestled in the fringing ranges of the Spine of the World lies the Ithil Valley, a frigid land that has been carved out of the mountains by the Rimetongue Glacier. Despite the harsh conditions, the region had seen a growing population as of late. Diverse settlements of humans, dwarves, elves, halflings, and other ancestries dotted the length of the valley, all the way to the coast of the Sea of Moving Ice. The hardy people of this land made their living by hunting, fishing, trapping, and occasionally acting as guides for those who believed the legends of treasure trapped beneath the ice.
Though life in the Ithil Valley is difficult, and sometimes unforgiving, it is also very mundane for the most part. Or at least it was, before disaster fell upon it.
Lighting up the dark valley as though by daylight, a fiery comet crashed upon this pristine land, striking the eastern terminus of the Rimetongue Glacier. The tremendous energy released by the comet's impact melted the glacier entirely, releasing deadly floods and landslides upon the valley. Earthquakes rocked the land, and nearly all of the settlements in the valley were washed away, buried, or otherwise destroyed. The lucky few who survived, now homeless refugees, began to flock en masse to the one settlement that had survived the deadly onslaught of natural disasters: Tomar's Crossing.
In the midst of this chaos, some have sought to take advantage. Roving bands of goblinoids kidnap unsuspecting refugees making their way to the valley's last safe haven, while bandits rob others of all they have left. Starving animals stalk the land, lashing out at anything that could make for a meal.
Word of the disaster has shot up and down the Sword Coast, along with rumors of ancient ruins, once trapped beneath the ice, now open and ripe for the taking.
Strange and deadly creatures stalk the land now, while the people of Tomar's Crossing struggle to deal with the massive influx of refugees. Amidst the rising chaos, what role will you play?
I am looking for at least four players to take part in this dungeon delving adventure in the far north! Here are some of the asks:
The adventure will start at level 1, with milestone experience. Roll for stats or Point Buy. With a feat taken at level 1(No V.Human for this reason). Any published content is allowed. If you aren't sure on something, ask:
Name:
Race/Class:
Backstory:
Hook:
Here are option hooks for you to use:
Any other questions? Just ask!
edit: I added a poll for stat generation methods. I've gotten some feedback in PM and just want to see if this rings true.
Update: You can go back and roll stats for your character, start rolling you're making a new one. In either case, you can also default back to point buy if you wish.
Update: Thanks all, players have been chosen.
Name: Ander Stormwind
Race/Class: Half Elf/Land Druid(Arctic)
Backstory: Ander was the son of two loving parents a human father and an Elven mother. He lived in a small village in the valley and grew up learning to survive and adapt to his frigid surroundings. As he neared his 24th birthday the comet came. People screamed as his village burned, Ander ran to find his parents but he was to late. Ander managed to save a few people from burning buildings before the village was a mere crisp. Him and the other survivors left to find a new home. On the way while Ander was looking for food he got stuck in a snow storm and got seperate from the others. He woke in Tomar’s Crossing with strange abilities. He is now looking for an answer to his power and is eager to save those who can not save themselves.
Hook: You used to live in the valley, and are now yourself a refugee in Tomar’s Crossing.
Ability scores: 13 14 11 12 15 12
https://www.dndbeyond.com/profile/PrimalBlade/characters/41081566
Name: Dural Ironhill
Race/Class: Hill Dwarf/ Ranger
Backstory: Dural, son of Noral, son of Noru, comes from one of the early families to settle in Ithil valley. This dwarf-clan claimed a fine hillock near the sloping valley wall as their own, and found therein the legendary Songhammer caves, which are now, alas, no more. Once relatively wealthy, for a clan living apart from the towns creeping gradually northward at glacial pace, Dural made his early living by seasonal trapping and guiding visitors about the local hills, with particular emphasis on the family's tourist-friendly schloss above the aforementioned scenic and hauntingly beautiful caves. For those caught trespassing, or worse, poaching, any that survived found that dwarves make arrowheads every bit as biting as axeblades. When the sky tore apart the northern end of the valley, the Ironhill's made good time heading south, their treasures and belongings for the most part carried by sturdy animals and willing backs. Still, the loss deeply wounded the clan leaders pride, most of whom retired from their positions as the heads of the familiar-mercantile business to live out their days in stone-faced shame. The new leaders of clan Ironhill, Dural's siblings and cousins, voted to resettle the Ironhill's in unclaimed territories north of Luskan. Dural, one of the few dissenting voices, refused to so easily abandon the valley, and parted ways from his clan to stake out a new living. In the days since the clan's exodus, he has made his living hunting the nearby forests, staying in a shared tenement of rubble and repurposed scrap on the edge of town. Thus far he's resisted efforts by the local magistrates to join their militia forces, but the prospect of a steady, if meager, income is becoming more and more tempting with each passing day, as the forest creatures flee, and the cold nights echo with the wild screams of bloodthirsty goblin-kin. He'd jump at any chance at adventure and treasure, if it meant avoiding the sacrifice of his pride and freedom, even in exchange for fair wages.
Hook: You used to live in the valley, and are now yourself a refugee arriving at Tomar's Crossing.
Question: I, unfortunately, have next to nothing unlocked with regard to feats and subclasses on dndbeyond. Is content sharing available, and if not are you agreeable to homebrew workarounds that accomplish the same thing mechanically speaking? with subclasses this is far more difficult, though if it is not available I am satisfied with what is freely available in the ranger class. Just wanted to throw the question in there. In any case, I would like to take the dwarven fortitude feat from Xanathar's - extra constitution and a fun hit die-expending mechanic on dodge.
I would be very much interested. Are you accepting beginners?
In case it's okay for you, here is the character. I can change if she doesn't fit into a balanced party because of her class.
Name: Kea
Race/Class: Tiefling / Cleric (life)
Backstory: The only daughter of traveling merchants who died far from home due to a disease. Kea spent the majority of her life in the village they were buried, meddling in the arcane in hope of bringing them back to life. After a while of practising necromancy, the locals grew suspicious and she left before she would have to answer for what she had been doing. She was wandering for a while, taking on jobs whenever there was any. On one occasion she had no shelter for the night and got invited in by the local priests. By that time, she had not been practising magic for a little while, and in the temple she finally got rid of her spellbook. That was the first time she was touched by the divine. As she confessed to the priests, they gifted her a holy symbol. She took her leave soon after, still unsure in the purpose of her new-found talents, when she heard of the events in the North.
Hook: Partly, she chose to set off towards Tomar's Crossing to investigate the mystery; partly to find a job and - in her general experience - there is much more to do when there is a crisis.
Name: Bryce Lindholm
Race/Class: Human/Paladin
Backstory:
Bryce born in a small fishing village, grew tired of the simplistic life style. He loved the idea of being an Adventurer. As soon as he could he left his village leaving behind his family which consists of his parents and his little sister "Vivian". Bryce traveled down to daggerford before heading to Waterdeep the city of splendors.
There he trained as soldier but he would eventually learn that the stories he heard as a child were far from the truth. He spent a few years learning that people weren't as noble as they seemed. Between corrupt nolbes, merchant and even his own superiors Bryce grew tired of not being able to help those in need. He learned that a local Lord Alliance member was in need of a new squire. Bryce jumped for the opportunity, as he spent a year with the Alliance he learned of Helm and his teachings.
Everything was finally following in place, at least until an unknown letter had reached Bryce's hand. Bryce sent letters before to his family and he received a few from them as well but this was different. It was from his sister, usually his mother wrote to him. A comet had cause severe damage to the area of thier village was basically wiped off the earth in a flood and that thier parents had unfortunately passed on leaving her alone. She left instruction on where she was and that the area wasn't safe as goblins and bandits began to run amok. As Bryce continued to read, he realized this must have been the reason why Helm found his way into his life. With no hesitation Bryce left the Lord's Alliance and began making his way to Tomar's Crossings as fasr as he could.
Hook: A relative of yours was in Safeharbor when the disaster struck, and is now a refugee stuck outside of Tomar's Crossing. They've written to you for help, begging for food and supplies.
https://ddb.ac/characters/43958514/0TU3lZ
Felix Windfall(Human-V Lv.7 Rogue) killed in ToA, Vallan Houndstrider (Halfling Ghostwise Lv.1 Fighter) in DiAName: Kenzie LaFleur
Race/Class: Halfling / Bard (College of Eloquence)
Backstory:
Hook: Some unnamed NPC held a secret to your past. You were on your way to meet them when the disaster struck. You survived, and are hoping to find them at Tomar's Crossing.
DM - The Call of Strahd (CoS); Feyrealm Campaign, Chapter 0 - Bleak Prospect (BP), Chapter 1 - Destination Unknown (DU)
Name: Doctor Svfra Lazul
Class: Deep Gnome Monk
Hook: Seeks ruins; possible link to the archaeological expedition in @Buck12887 ‘s backstory.
https://ddb.ac/characters/43965387/ZH2lAr
Abilities rolled in post #32 of this thread:
Ability scores: 12 18 10 11 15 13
Backstory:
Svfra grew up as the only child of her parents, in Silverymoon in the north. They were not particularly affluent, but they got by, living in the basements beneath the Vault of the Sages, one of the Conclave’s most coveted and prestigious libraries. Lack of siblings did not mean lack of playmates, as they shared the basement spaces with a small, tight-knit community, consisting primarily of other deep gnomes, though there was also a warren of kobolds. Indeed, Svfra and her childhood mates got up to much mischief in and around the university grounds.
Svfra’s mother, a bookbinder, passed some years back; but her father continues to assist the night librarians, mostly filing. Her dad had never displayed much talent in the field of magic, but the tall and perilous ladders had proven incentive enough for the old gnome to master the art of levitation. Sometimes Svfra had caught him indulging in his own research and studies, though he was ever secretive about it.
Spending much of her time above in the libraries, Svfra found herself attracted to the studies of Anthropology and Archaeology, and pursued her higher education with a passion. Ultimately, after what seemed a lifetime at the university, she struck out for adventure. She would make discoveries of her own, and write treatises on them that others could read, sitting about in libraries. She was quite done with sitting about herself!
Except in meditation, that is. Of late, Svfra has been reading an old text purported to have been from the Spirit Soaring (Edificant Library). With its passages and illustrations, she has been teaching herself the ways of... whatever monastic tradition had created it. It is written in a dated script, and she hasn’t gotten that far into it, as yet, with her travels. Apart from the breathing exercises, there were also martial instructions and illustrations, even an appendix on herbalism and medicine. It will be a long path, made all the longer for being self-taught.
Svfra was spending some time studying Uthgardt tribal culture near Raven Rock, when the comet struck. Rumors of newly exposed ruins and ancient cities were enough to pull her from that assignment, and she immediately headed north.
Name: Tributary
Race: Water Genasi
Class (Subclass): Genie (Marid) Warlock, Pact of the Tome (At level 3)
Backstory:
Tributary (born Maven Zanim Shezan) was raised on stories from his mother about what a wonderful man his father was. As his mother told it Sultan Zanim the Learned was a kind soul who loved telling tales, fiercely protective of her when he could be around, and had set them both up in a rather nice home in Waterdeep. As Tributary had never met his father in person, his Genasi heritage and the magic he could wield were all he had to truly go on. As the young man was not born with natural physical prowess, agility, amazing intellect.....or any skills naturally with which help keep him alive in this dangerous world Zanim did leave behind a book within an unr, which his mother gave him at the age of 16. Reading this odd tome brought a sense of comfort, a sense of purpose and most importantly a shred of the Marid's essence in the form of his growing magical talents.
After years of studying the book which never seemed to run out of new things to read, Tributary found he had difficulty sleeping without consulting the book. Writing down his experiences, his tales, examining the bits of lore within and enjoying some of the (what he believed) tall tales aiding him in relaxing for a night's rest. Whenever Tributary wrote within this book the ink seemed to be drank by the book, and he could only guess that it was his father's way of reading these tales. The recent unrest and chaos seemed like the perfect place to perhaps finally experience a tale firsthand that may actually be worthy of being next to such amazing tales as his father left for him.
Hook used: Chatter among the Coast has rumored that it was no natural disaster that wiped out the valley, but a force of evil. You've come to investigate.
Withdrawing was accepted elsewhere and don't want to load up on too much at once
I've got interest. Gotta go to work shortly; dotting to edit in an application after work. (pre and post work will also be my usual posting times).Not sure what hook I'd opt with yet. Are those specific options or a framework for the hooks?I like the idea of coming up for the treasure, but with the intention of using most of it to help the refugees; keeping a little as a finder's fee.Or combining the "used to live in the village" and the "someone had my secret to the past"Off hand, Assuming the restricted damage types aren't a problem (Fire, Acid, Poison). I'd be looking at a Alchemist, with possible short dip in Warlock-Genie at level 2 due to backstory).Feat would likely be one of; Poisoner, Mobile, Healer, or Crusher. WOuld have to look at stuff again. A poisoining whipping alchemist sounds funnyThis game so far sounds like it might be a fair fit for a character I've been trying to find one for.Name: Vandal Beaumont
Race/Class: Goliath Barbarian
Backstory: Growing up a Goliath, there didn't seem to be many opportunities in the civilized world besides physical pursuits so when he was of age, Vandal joined the military. He spent several years there, slowly gaining the respect of his fellow soldiers, proving that he could be trusted, and making a few friends along the way.
When his service was done, Vandal headed north to the wild snowy frontier because he'd heard that there were opportunities there for a man like himself. Once there, he eventually fell in with a group that needed security while traveling into the frozen wastes for an archeological expedition. While there, Vandal became interested in an intellectual pursuit for the first time and the old man leading the expedition, a human named Cyrus Osterly, kindly took the young Goliath under his wing and started teaching him about archeology and ancient civilizations. Vandal had never had this sort of kindllness shown to him and quickly formed a bond with the old man.
While on his way back from Tomar's Crossing to pick up supplies and a new member of the dig, a tremendous explosion occurred, followed by a brilliant flash of light and earthquakes!
Now, all Vandal wants to do is to make his way back north to the dig site and try to find out what happened and rescue Cyrus if he can....
Hook: Vandal wants to head into the disaster area to find/help Cyrus if he can, but he knows traveling there alone is likely suicide so he'll need companions if he hopes to succeed
Name: Uthar Wardensworn
Race/Class: Mark of Warding Dwarf/ Wizard (Divination eventually)
Backstory: Uthar Wardensworn, formally known as Uthar Lornir, Is an initiate into a secretive alliance known as the Wardensworn. The wardensworn are protectors of the realm, and first responders to instances of chaos and evil that descend upon the land. As such, they recruit members with an aptness to divination and abjuration magic to predict these unsavory events and respond as quickly as possibly to quell imminent threat, and reducing the damage it does to the commonfolk and the security of the realm. Uthar, hoping to earn a place amongst the ranks, was eager to act on his vision, and jumped at the opportunity to investigate the disturbance in the region.
Hook: You received visions of the disaster before it happened, a disembodied voice in a dream instructed you to Tomar's Crossing to help put an end to the chaos.
Experience/Bonus player info
Name: Tessa Frostthorn
Race/Class: Levistus Tiefling Bard (Lore eventually)
Backstory: In the small town of Equesford (or a similar town in this world), so named for the shallows in the river where wild horses used to cross, there is an inn. The Rising Phoenix Inn is run by a pair of tiefling ex-adventurers, the Frostthorns. Kalen and Pheria purchased the inn when they opted to retire from adventuring following the discovery that Pheria was pregnant. Over the years, they had three daughters. Kalea, the oldest, despite showing prowess with a blade also was a talented brewer so opted to assist her parents with the inn. The youngest, Pherali, was born with magical abilities in her blood even more so than your average tiefling. Upon coming of age, she joined an adventuring party and left home for the great beyond. This brings us to the middle child, Tessa. Tessa while a bit shy was a talented musician. Preferring the viol as her instrument of choice she entertained the patrons of The Rising Phoenix Inn anytime she could be persuaded to do so. Her preference for activities lies in the delving of old forgotten locations trying to pull the secrets from what she finds within. She has left home looking for people with who she might delve for secrets.
Hook: She has heard rumors of treasure/secret-filled ruins uncovered by the disaster and have come to fill your pockets.
I have concepts for a stars druid or celestial warlock as well if one of those fits better.
Name: Iorythas
Race/Class: Yuan To Pureblood/ Warlock(Hexblade)
Backstory: Like most of his people, Iorythas was born in far away child, made to participate in the evil rituals to their dark gods. Eventually he was sent out to Port Nyanzaru in order to use his more human like appearance to spy on them and learn more of what the growing number of outsiders wanted.
In his time their he learned many things, even learning of a shipment of items that were supposed to be of immense magical power. Seeing this as an advantage he managed to sneak aboard the ship, finding a strange orb (his arcane focus). As he touched it a strange voice began to enter his mind, speaking in a language that was beyond his comprehension but somehow understandable. 'Serve me and gain power... All I ask is that you find lost items... Bring them together and I shall make you a god among your people...." With these words filling his mind, the power seeking nature of his people made Iorythas jump at the chance, soon leaving Chult to head towards Faerun. For several months he would travel looking for signs of the items his patron wanted.
Hook: You've heard rumors of treasure-filled ruins uncovered by the disaster and have come to fill your pockets. (His patron has been sending him visions of something in the ruins, something they want to own or at least use)
All:
I've added a poll for stat generation method. If everyone really does prefer to roll for stats, we'll switch to that method.
I really like rolling personally, but I am good with either. Also since it is a point of contention with a lot of DMs I am curious are you good with Customizing your Origin from Tasha's? Just the ASI swapping not the Custom Lineage that is basically V. Human but for everyone.
Tasha's is fine.
I like rolling, and from what I’ve seen, the scores tend to be better... mostly. It is nice to have the security of point-buy in reserve, as a back-up. If it is just one or the other, I would take point-buy, to remove the risk of a truly awful set.
Ooh this sounds like a really fun campaign. I'll try to get a character written up after work today.
Probably gonna go for a fighter or if undead warlock ua is allowed a drain tank using that
Ability scores: 12 15 17 12 12 15
Hi, very interested in playing. I haven't done pbp before but it sounds like a lot of fun.
Name: Thesda/Slink
Race/Class: Lightfoot Hafling/Rogue
Backstory:
Thesda's family was traveling through Waterdeep when sickness befell them. Both of her parents passed away and she was left stranded and alone at the age of seven in an unfamiliar city with no one to turn to. Ben, one of the city's many urchins, found her starving and half dead in the alley behind Mistress D'Lang's brothel. She looked so small and pathetic that he was unable to leaver her behind (at least that's what Ben says when he tells the story). Ben took Thesda back to his small space in the upper story of an abandoned building that he called home. He nursed her back to health and taught her how to survive on the streets, she had a strong survival instinct and didn't let much stand in her way. She eagerly soaked up all the teachings that Ben could provide and they were inseparable for years to come. She soon earned the nickname of Slink for her talent at sneaking and slinking around and she has gone by that name ever since. For her, Thesda died all those years ago along with her former life and she has never looked back. One of her favorite past times was keeping tabs on a particular lord. Lord Norgrave was well known in Waterdeep for all the interesting places he went, all the interesting people he knew, and Slink’s favorite, all the interesting treasures he brought back from his explorations. Her goal in life is to become an adventurer/collector extraordinaire and she is ready to leave Waterdeep and reach for her future. This sounds like the perfect opportunity to start on that path.
Hook: You've heard rumors of treasure-filled ruins uncovered by the disaster and have come to seek unique artifacts for your future collection and fill your pockets
Place holder to express interest.
Sounds like an interesting campaign. Works about to get in the way and I don't want to shorthand a character. I'll post tonight. Hope that's ok.