CHARACTER APPLICATION CLOSES ON SUNDAY 7TH OCTOBER
Fifty years ago, a group of elves known as The Mirrani came to our world. They said they did not come across the planes, but from beyond the skies, on a ship that looked like a giant flying mantis. They told our people of the art of Spelljamming, a way of travelling beyond the skies and to other worlds. It has taken that long, but we have made our first ship capable of Spelljamming; The Maiden's Horizon.
This is the log of The Maiden's Horizon, our crew prepped and ready to take the ship into the great unknowns, and see what there is to see, so that one day all the knowledge of beyond the starry veil will be accessible to our entire world.
What's this, two campaign recruitments in one day? That's right! Pokepaladdy has gone mad and is adding two new campaigns to his roster. This one is loosely based on Spelljammer, the oh so beloved campaign setting that has so far been shunned officially (though my +2 tin foil helmet tells me otherwise) of Dungeons and Dragons IN SPAAAACE!
This is a beginner's entry to Spelljammer. I am no expert in the setting, and this is set up to have an ease of introduction to the setting for players both in and out of character.
Read the below if you'd like to apply. Use the character form for an easy format to copy from.
Basic World Background:
Your world, the land of Evadil, is a world that is fairly accepting of most people and cultures. The countries there are at a fairly sturdy peace since the coming of The Mirani fifty years ago, and have worked together to gather their greatest mages to work together and develop the first Spelljamming ship of Evadil.
The power level of Evadil is pretty low, with only spells of up to 5th level being known by the mightiest of spellcasters known in the land. In comparison to other worlds, this is only the middle step in the magic ladder, so spells that go beyond that will be a marvel and new wonderment to Evadilians. As third level adventurers, you are classed as seasoned veterans, ready to take on some of the greatest dangers the world has to offer!
Those who were selected to work on The Maiden Horizon have spent the last five years training and learning the basics of Spelljamming, so everyone counts as being proficient in Vehicle (Spelljammer) as a skill for any checks required. They have been told what few secrets are known about the great beyond, that once The Maiden Horizon leaves the world, it will reach a place known as Wildspace, where it will travel for weeks, like a ship at sea, before reaching the next world. The ship's mission is to explore the reaches of the other realms, and to locate where The Mirani came from, as well as potentially find treasures and wonders to return back to Evadil with in a few years' time.
Character Creation Rules:
Starting Level: 3
Ability Scores: Point Buy or Standard Array
Preferences:
Homebrew Content: OFF (though see below)
Critical Role Content: ON
Playtest Content: ON
Eberron Content: ON
Advancement Type: Milestone
Encumbrance Type: Use Encumbrance
Ignore Coin Weight: Off
Hit Point Type: Fixed
Race: You may play any official D&D Beyond supported race. That's right, including Eberron, Unearthed Arcana, and Ravnica!
Class: You may play any official D&D Beyond supported class. You may also play mystic! I have a rewritten version of mystic that you may look at here. It is a hybrid of the official one, a couple of altered ones I've seen on DM's Guild, as well as adding my own little bits. Tried in a couple of campaigns between my IRL friends and seems to work well. I have written the Mystic update (mostly) into D&D Beyond, so will be usable as a "wizard archetype". Basically, if you want to play a mystic, you can't be a wizard.
Background: Any official D&D Beyond supported background, except for Haunted One, since this isn't Ravenloft :-p
Ship Position: Basically, Spelljammer's a little like Star Trek in space. While not a huge Trekkie (I watched it when I was little, but haven't managed to pick it up due to busy lifestyle), I know the basics of what positions are available as elite members on a ship. So basically, pick one of the following you'd like your character to be.
Captain: You are the guy who makes the major decisions. Will you fire upon that unknown ship? Will you attempt to land on that strange planetoid over there? NOTE: While no major requirements are needed, keep in mind that the captain is basically the top of the heirarchy, but also the one who takes responsibility for everyone else on ship.
First Mate: You are the one that keeps The Maiden Horizon shipshape and crew in check. There are nameless mooks who work under the main crew. NOTE: It is advised having some social-based skills, such as Persuasion to keep morale up, and Intimidation to keep the unruly ones in check.
Quartermaster: You are in charge of supplies and rationing on ship. Alongside the First Mate and the Captain, you make the trifecta of important roles upon the ship. NOTE: An intelligent character works well for the quartermaster, knowing how to manage what is needed and what is extra. No hardcore maths required, I'll do that behind the scenes, but Investigation is always useful to check no one is stealing extra resources from the stores.
Pilot: You are the one who mans the spelljamming helm on the ship, the main way of piloting a spelljamming ship. NOTE: You must be a spellcaster with a minimum of a 1st level spell slot in order to operate a spelljamming helm.
Medic: Someone needs to know how to keep the ship and crew healthy, and will need to look into any foreign diseases etc. that may appear by going to alien planets. NOTE: What is advised is someone trained in Medicine, and preferrably with access to spells that can either heal or remove debuffs.
Arcane Researcher: read as "science officer", these are the magic expert on the ship who will need to catalog and note the different races and magics discovered on the journeys. They may also be called upon for Astro-navigation. NOTE: This is where the knowledge skills are very useful, as people will be relying on you to know things. Keep in mind you are all from a planet that has only just gained Spelljamming capabilities, so you don't need to know things OOC. Knowledge skills, like Arcana and Nature are pretty useful for this role.
FAQs:
There's this really cool homebrew race/archetype I really want to play. Can I play it? Send me a link to it (it needs to be integrated into D&D Beyond) and build your character with it, and I'll have a look at it. Keep in mind that if it conflicts with the stuff mentioned above, then it'll be a no.
What about X/Y/Z for making my character? See the Character creation spoiler above.
Can I still apply a character for this campaign? Is it before the deadline, which is in bold, red writing at the top of this post? Then sure!
Will Content Sharing be available? I personally have run out of content shares. However, we can arrange such things if a player cannot supply it, so still work out your character with the resources and if you don't have them, we'll work something out.
Can I play a Blood Hunter? Yes!
How "active" do you require your players to be? I would prefer players who can post daily (weekdays mostly), but if you can't make every day (real life unfortunately gets in the way of the thing that truly matters, D&D) then that's fine, just pop down how often you think you'd be able to post.
How do I apply? Simple! Just copy the Character Form spoiler and fill it in with your character. Ensure you've posted before the end of the deadline (I will put a post to confirm when this is closed) and that's all you need to do.
Do I need to know anything about Spelljammer? Nope. In fact, it probably helps since this campaign is about a planet's first visitation to the worlds beyond! Feel free to look things up, but I'm using artistic license for some of this.
Can I apply with multiple characters? I'm going to say yes, but a max of 2 character concepts.
Will this be on D&D Beyond, or can we use Discord etc.? I'll be running on D&D Beyond. If there is a demand for something like a Discord server I'll set something up, but only if it is a majority vote of the players.
How many players are you looking for? The 4-6 group ideally. Remember: it isn't first-come, first-served, so feel free to apply before the deadline.
I'm in one of your campaigns, can I be in this one? Yes. I plan to be impartial on whether you've played with me, DM'd for me, I've DM'd for you, or never met you before!
What is the starting equipment? You may start with your class and background starting equipment, plus 200 gp. You may buy one common item for 100 gp, however if it is a magical version of another basic item (like a weapon, armour, or spellcasting focus), then you must either spend the money that item would cost, or trade in a nonmagical equivalent version of it. Basically, no free plate armour for the paladin. For example, if you picked a moon-touched sword, scimitar, you can either spend 125 gold (100 for common magic item, plus 25 for the scimitar), or spend 100 gold and trade in a scimitar from your starting equipment.
Wait, if we're in charge, why are we only level 3? You're from a fairly backwater planet in the grand scheme of things. The world isn't that advanced, and their heroes generally are though of as legendary when they reach level 7. It's a lot less deadly or epic as other campaign worlds, so level 3 adventurers are pretty hardcore for your world.
Will there be new rules to learn? Yes, there will be extra rules to learn, but I'll be going through it step by step and trying to make it almost like a learn-by-play to not overload players.
Can I multiclass? Yes! Feel free to build your character with some interesting ideas, think about why you have multiple vocations and when you had a change in professions.
Gods and stuff. What do? We'll use the Deities of the Forgotten Realms provided in the basic rules. It is not compulsary to worship a deity, so there is no need to pick one. There may be other pantheons that you can discover in the future!
Character Form:
My Profile Name: <your name you want to be referred to OOC. Can be your username, or something a little shorter if you like.> Available: <how often are you on D&D Beyond? Can you post daily, every couple of days, once a week?>
Character Profile Name: <insert character name> Race: <insert character race and subrace> Class: <insert character classes and archetypes> Background: <insert character background> Crew Position: <what position on the ship would you take?> Backstory: <Brief explanation as to how you ended up becoming a member on the Spelljammer. Just a couple of sentences will do, no need to go super in depth.>
Character Profile Name: Isuzu Race: Warforged Envoy (--Masque--Female-Prototype --Integrated Tool Disguise Kit--) Class: Cleric 1 (--Knowledge Domain--) / Druid 1 / Warlock 1 (--The Great Old One--) Background: Envoy (Diplomat/Courtier) Crew Position: Arcane Researcher (--Science Officer--) or (--Boxed Option--) Backstory: Isuzu is a prototype 'Warforged-Envoy-Masque' a bio-synthetic replicate constructed to appear as human-like as possible in form/function and programmed to perfectly simulate human behavior in all types of human interactions. Her artificial endoskeletal structure is concealed under a layer of synthetic-skin. Isuzu comes fully 'unboxed' and activated at mission start as a standard crew member. Fully programmed personality and hard-wired skill protocols including Medicine, Science (Arcana and Nature), as well as Astronavigation proficient with Cartographer and Navigator tools. Capable and rated to operate/pilot most Spelljamming vessels. Note that fully-equipped certified Geisha companion option is a premium extra.
Please contact your nearest Isuzu-Synthetics dealer for pricing and availability.
As a synthetic Isuzu does not eat, drink, sleep or breathe and available in a 'boxed-option'(power-downed/deactivated) state for direct to vessel cargo storage until needed at a later date. Ideal for deep-space Spelljamming missions to be activated as an emergency backup crew replacement.
Gotta reserve this post!! Currently at work and I get out later in the day, I’ll edit this post with the character I wish to use, I hope that’s okay c:!
Finally home! Here we go c:
My Profile Name: Cherri Available: Pretty much everyday, if something happens and I can't post, I usually notify my DM's
Character Profile Name: Vyserra Sov Race: High Elf Class: Paladin, Oath of Devotion Background: Folk Hero Crew Position: First mate Backstory:
Vyserra was born into a family with a long line of paladins. She is the youngest of 4 brothers and despite having their protection, she was determined to learn to defend herself, knowing that they will not be with her forever. No female Sov had ever become a paladin before having often being trained in a more mundane “feminine” roles. Her brothers were already in training in becoming paladins, and she always had watched them in awe, but when she asked her parents to allow her to train as well, they declined and forced her to into more "lady like" activities. As she aged, she grew more and more frustrated, her brothers taking notice and training her in secret.
Vyserra, with the use of her training, managed to become a small hero to the town she grew up in, but no one truly knew of her identity, using a mask to cover her features to beat the bad guys. When she would return home, she would always speak of her little adventures to her brothers in private. After a few years, the topic of telling her parents of her secret training came into light and they eventually ended up showing their parents what Vyserra was made of, and showed how she had such potential to join in the ranks.
They were far from pleased with her and her brothers, enforcing her to stay inside (if she ever wanted to go out she had to have someone with her) and always having someone keep an eye on her. This caused a rift between her and her parents.
But she never stopped training herself, using whatever knowledge her brothers had given her to continue to be stronger than any male Sov had ever been.
In time she managed to get away from her family by putting in an application to join aboard the Spelljammer. Even if she were to mop up the deck and scrub the floors, at least she would be able to break out of the shackles her family locked her into.
Aeydof the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm /ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
Gotta reserve this post!! Currently at work and I get out later in the day, I’ll edit this post with the character I wish to use, I hope that’s okay c:!
Of course, feel free to post in your own time. It's open for the rest of the week to add a character option or two :-)
Such a cool concept to play around with. If nothing else, I look forward to seeing what other ideas people come up with for this setting!
Name: Jabthar Available: daily
Character Profile Name: Orpheus-2 Race: Warforged (envoy) Class: Warlock Background: Acolyte Crew Position: Arcane researcher or quartermaster Backstory: Orpheus-2 was originally constructed for the sole purpose of diplomacy. Specifically, diplomacy with Devils. Establishing diplomatic relations in the nine Hells has always been tricky, though at last a workable solution was found. Orpheus-2 (and his predecessor, Orpheus-1) were built to facilitate communication and positive relations between the chaos bent, fiery denizens of Hell, and the (sometimes) peaceful surface dwellers who wished to avoid eternal enslavement. Recalled from its mission below, Orpheus-2's application was submitted on the grounds that his extensive experience with inhumans, as well as the relationship he still maintains with the forces of Hell, might be of great use on the voyage.
Crew Position: First Mate, Quartermaster, or Pilot if that's left open
Backstory: Norder initially was part of a larger hobgoblin legion, but left the legion to pursue the study of the arcane in a more traditional sense. He managed to discover a ritual that would grant him draconic powers, which he spent three years accumulating the components. He was able to conduct the ritual mostly successfully, but due to an error in his chant and the slight inferiority of one of his components, he now has blue dragon scales all along the left side of his torso and arm. He hopes to find some form of technology or magecraft that can reverse this change, as well as to prove himself worthy of rejoining his legion, since he pursued magic in a way that is considered disgraceful to goblinoids. As a hobgoblin, his natural leadership and organizational skills make him more than qualified for the job. On top of that, he has magical abilities, allowing him to pilot the ship if no one else can.
Do the character sheets need to be made in DnD Beyond? I'm relatively new to it and don't know how important a DnD Beyond specific character sheet is over a standard form fillable sheet.
Wildspace, the final frontier! These are the voyages of the spelljammer Maiden Horizon. It's mission: to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and civilization, and to boldly go where no humanoid has gone before...
My Profile Name: Karnic Available: Practically everyday
Character Profile Name: Leonard 'Bones' McCoy Race: Human, Variant Class: Cleric, Life Domain Background: Guild Artisan Crew Position: Medic! Backstory: Leonard's family were alchemists by trade and his family were members of the city's local Artisan Guild. Though he was taught in the ways of alchemy, Leonard felt himself drawn to the church and entered their service as a physician, where he earned the nickname Bones. Eventually he became a full fledged cleric and took up the study of healing through divine magics. While with the church, he heard about recruitment for The Maiden Horizon and it's journey into the final frontier which captivated his imagination. So, Leonard decided to put in an application to become one of the medics on The Maiden Horizon in hopes to see what awaits beyond the horizon.
(Do you have a specific list of deities to pick from?)
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Be excellent to each other, and roll for initiative dudes!
Did you expect anyone but an elf? Clearly, your potential assumption has been proven incorrect. I, Captain Lanthir, am your leader, much as it disappoints me to have to say it. But it was...decided, by my superiors, that it would be...unwise to allow a le- that is, less prepared captain to pilot a newly equipped ship such as this unsupervised. Not desiring to prove this hypothesis, my superiors have placed me in charge of this unusual operation. After all, I have thus far experienced a remarkably successful career in the military field.
But I am well aware that some of you, most likely those unfamiliar with my prestige, may be...wary of trusting my abilities in a position so new to any of us. With this in mind, I ask that you please submit any concerns or complaints in written form to my cabin, where I may read them, analyze them, and assign those responsible for them to latrine duty.
...
That is all."
Lanthir grew up in a position of privilege, being an elf, and moved up relatively quickly in the military ranks. He hoped to eventually land a comfortable position, away from "all the fuss" of active duty, but was assigned to this job (against his will) by his elven superiors, who recognized his talents as a tactician and his sense of duty. Apparently Spelljammer elves are extremely militaristic, which is fun. I'm completely new to Spelljammer and had no idea! Lanthir has very little interest in exploration or adventure, and is just doing his job, no more. He's no coward, but he's not the charismatic leader many may have hoped for. He'll explore because he's been told to, but don't expect him to like it.)
A gaunt, rather disgruntled looking high elf, possessing pale skin and long, silky white hair, Captain Lanthir wears the uniform appropriate to his position, always as clean and neat-looking as possible.
Julian was designed to be duel purpose. His primary function is locate target, kill target. After the coming of the Mirami, his primary function was no longer neccesary so he adapted his skills and eventually became a pilot.
Any multiclassing restrictions? I was hoping to make a fighter-1 then the rest in bard for a captain. Figured that’d round out this character nicely with a fighting style, and a more “moved up through the ranks” background. If not, I can just go all bard.
Name: noah Available: every day
Character Profile Name: Ivan Bariat Race: Shifter - Beasthide Class: Fighter -1 Bard-2 (valor) Background: Soldier Crew Position: Captain Backstory: Ivan is a career military man who’s known for his versatility as a commander, and considered a good luck charm by most of his commanders.
Ivan has often been at odds with his animal aspect. He has spent his life tightly gripping the reins of his soul. With this discipline, he drove himself forward into a successful career in the military as a squad commander. Recently up for promotion, he was selected to command the Windjammer mission. During the course of his training, he spent time learning from some of the world’s experts in magic, combat, diplomacy and history. Ivan can be a bit rough around the edges, but his divided nature will be an asset. Only someone with the skills, abilities, and vigilance will lead them to success.
I imagine him looking like a lion when he’s shifted, and a very serious, but somewhat shaggy looking human when he’s not. Let’s get him some scars!
Just an observation, but on most big ships, the Captain stands alone as master of the vessel, while the trifecta just beneath the captain consists of 1) chief deckhand/bosun, 2) chief engineer, and 3) chief steward/quartermaster. I'm not familiar with whether or not each of these three roles would have an analog on a spelljammer ship, so they may not be necessary. Just wanted to put it out there for consideration. Will be submitting at least one option before too long. Thanks for running this, Pokepaladdy.
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Playing in: Shepherds of Truth - Thomas Roth, Shepherd of Mystra Aerovail, Cities in the Sky - Aidan Burke, Smuggler The Missing Schema - Trigger, Morgrave Trap-Breaker Echoes of the Past - Einar Barruk, Fight Club Brawler Once in Waterdeep - Nagao Jun, Windwise Wanderer
background: being the first one in the family to possess any magical talent was a surprise. Especially since the first time Xavier or his family were aware of it came from a sneeze. Poor Rufus the family dog was never the same after that. With his powers growing, so did his anxiety. Becoming fearful that anything that can go wrong would go wrong. He figured he would keep to his books and keep his head down, hopefully there would be an answer to his curse somewhere out in the stars. He followed up and enlisted on the maiden horizon.
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Name: Cruz Forlox Race: High elf
class: fighter battle master Background: Urchin Crew Position: Pilot (I would also work with a leadership role) Backstory: Growing up poor with a single mother. Cruz learned how to stick up for himself quickly. Never knowing when not to cross the line. He found himself on the wrong side of the law occasionally. Minor infractions mostly until he stole a vehicle and got into a major chase. He was given a choice jail or put his skills to use.
My Profile Name: Knight Available: Multiple times a day, almost everyday (barring emergencies and the like)
Character Profile (#1) Name: Kaala Yol Race: Kobold Class: Sorcerer, Draconic Bloodline Background: Cloistered Scholar Crew Position: Pilot Backstory: Being a naturally inventive race, Kobolds proved to be exceptionally well-suited to the constructive process that gave birth to the Maiden's Horizon, and few beings understand the ship's inner workings better than Kaala Yol. This energetic and slightly excitable red-scale was chosen as the Maiden's pilot in no small part due to that familiarity, but also because of the innate magic of her bloodline and her optimistic, joyful personality.
Playing in: Shepherds of Truth - Thomas Roth, Shepherd of Mystra Aerovail, Cities in the Sky - Aidan Burke, Smuggler The Missing Schema - Trigger, Morgrave Trap-Breaker Echoes of the Past - Einar Barruk, Fight Club Brawler Once in Waterdeep - Nagao Jun, Windwise Wanderer
Character Profile Name: Armistar Race: Wood Elf Class: Monk Background: Outlander Crew Position: First Mate, captain Backstory: Armistar was sent off at a young age to the monastery where he was raised. He was raised by a traveling monk who took him all around the world. This lead to a wanderlust he couldn't satisfy by staying on the planet, so when his mentor died (of old age) he was the first to sign up. The thought of seeing new worlds seemed like the culmination of a lifetime of wandering.
My Profile Name: Most people online just call me Neo. Available: Daily, usually multiple times per day, unless unforeseen events come up IRL.
Character Profile Name: Jorunn "Tallstrider" Hartwick Race: Half-Giant ("Goliath") Class: Fighter (Brute) Background: Sailor Crew Position: First Mate (Realistically I feel like this character concept is a bit young to have been given the responsibilities of the First Mate, but it's the role that she fits best, and one that she would be able/reluctantly willing to fill in the event of the original First Mate's untimely demise.) Backstory: Raised among her seafaring tribesfolk, Jorunn has long looked up at the clear night sky and dreamed of sailing through the stars. When she heard rumors of a ship that could do just that when her clan's vessel was stopped over at a major port city, the news seemed too good to be true, but that didn't stop her from inquiring more and finding that indeed, a project was underway that aimed to reach out for the stars. She immediately signed up to begin the training process, though she was quite young and inexperienced compared to the majority of applicants at the time, having barely entered her 17th summer. Despite this, her hard work and dedication to the cause did not go unnoticed by the higher-ups, and when she proved herself physically more than capable of handling the job, she was offered a position among the crew.
Character Profile (#2) Name: Alastar Race: Vedalken Class: Warlock, GOO Patron, Pact of the Tome Background: Sage Crew Position: Arcane Researcher Backstory: Even before the arrival of the Mirrani, Alastar was a well-regarded astrologer, most celebrated for his exceptionally accurate almanacs, which he based on his observations of the heavens. In the years following First Contact, none could match his skill in the area of astro-navigational theory, which all but guaranteed his selection as navigator and chief archivist for the Horizon's maiden voyage. He is considered a brilliant but dispassionate observer by most, though in truth, this mission is deeply personal for the 120 year old Vedalken. For the past sixty years, Alastar has been plagued by dreams of alien creatures of immense and terrible power beyond the ken of his homeworld, and he aims to search them out and learn how to keep them from destroying it.
Playing in: Shepherds of Truth - Thomas Roth, Shepherd of Mystra Aerovail, Cities in the Sky - Aidan Burke, Smuggler The Missing Schema - Trigger, Morgrave Trap-Breaker Echoes of the Past - Einar Barruk, Fight Club Brawler Once in Waterdeep - Nagao Jun, Windwise Wanderer
Character Profile Name: Rhys Aitken Race: Kalashtar Class: Bard (College of Lore) Background: Criminal Crew Position: Quartermaster Backstory: A roguish member of the esteemed Bard College of Lore, Rhys was only recently released from probation after a misunderstanding with achief archivist and "arbitrary rules regarding the restricted sections of the College's Lore." Despite his many exploits and foibles, Rhys's natural curiosity and charisma inexorably drew his interest to the Maiden Horizon's maiden voyage. Armed with a superb eye for detail and a memory sharper than his blade, Rhys is hopeful that his application will be considered, carefully if at all.
Do the character sheets need to be made in DnD Beyond? I'm relatively new to it and don't know how important a DnD Beyond specific character sheet is over a standard form fillable sheet.
We'll be using D&D Beyond to keep track of characters. Don't worry if you haven't made a character on here before, just place your character concept down and we can work on building it together if you need any help with it :-)
Any multiclassing restrictions? I was hoping to make a fighter-1 then the rest in bard for a captain. Figured that’d round out this character nicely with a fighting style, and a more “moved up through the ranks” background. If not, I can just go all bard.
Multiclassing is fine, so long as it seems suitable. Think of a reason why you switched vocations while at home, maybe it can create some interesting character concepts.
Just an observation, but on most big ships, the Captain stands alone as master of the vessel, while the trifecta just beneath the captain consists of 1) chief deckhand/bosun, 2) chief engineer, and 3) chief steward/quartermaster. I'm not familiar with whether or not each of these three roles would have an analog on a spelljammer ship, so they may not be necessary. Just wanted to put it out there for consideration. Will be submitting at least one option before too long. Thanks for running this, Pokepaladdy.
Yeah, I thought I'd put a little twist on the typical IRL work, basically allowing for if whomever the captain to get some help with the main "in charge" roles, and if they aren't available IRL for a bit, there are two backups to take lead. The ship will have about 20 mooks that are there as stand-ins for the other random jobs on the ship.
Wildspace, the final frontier! These are the voyages of the spelljammer Maiden Horizon. It's mission: to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and civilization, and to boldly go where no humanoid has gone before...
♪There's dragons on the starboard bough, starboard bough, starboard bough!♪
CHARACTER APPLICATION CLOSES ON SUNDAY 7TH OCTOBER
Fifty years ago, a group of elves known as The Mirrani came to our world. They said they did not come across the planes, but from beyond the skies, on a ship that looked like a giant flying mantis. They told our people of the art of Spelljamming, a way of travelling beyond the skies and to other worlds. It has taken that long, but we have made our first ship capable of Spelljamming; The Maiden's Horizon.
This is the log of The Maiden's Horizon, our crew prepped and ready to take the ship into the great unknowns, and see what there is to see, so that one day all the knowledge of beyond the starry veil will be accessible to our entire world.
What's this, two campaign recruitments in one day? That's right! Pokepaladdy has gone mad and is adding two new campaigns to his roster. This one is loosely based on Spelljammer, the oh so beloved campaign setting that has so far been shunned officially (though my +2 tin foil helmet tells me otherwise) of Dungeons and Dragons IN SPAAAACE!
This is a beginner's entry to Spelljammer. I am no expert in the setting, and this is set up to have an ease of introduction to the setting for players both in and out of character.
Read the below if you'd like to apply. Use the character form for an easy format to copy from.
Basic World Background:
Your world, the land of Evadil, is a world that is fairly accepting of most people and cultures. The countries there are at a fairly sturdy peace since the coming of The Mirani fifty years ago, and have worked together to gather their greatest mages to work together and develop the first Spelljamming ship of Evadil.
The power level of Evadil is pretty low, with only spells of up to 5th level being known by the mightiest of spellcasters known in the land. In comparison to other worlds, this is only the middle step in the magic ladder, so spells that go beyond that will be a marvel and new wonderment to Evadilians. As third level adventurers, you are classed as seasoned veterans, ready to take on some of the greatest dangers the world has to offer!
Those who were selected to work on The Maiden Horizon have spent the last five years training and learning the basics of Spelljamming, so everyone counts as being proficient in Vehicle (Spelljammer) as a skill for any checks required. They have been told what few secrets are known about the great beyond, that once The Maiden Horizon leaves the world, it will reach a place known as Wildspace, where it will travel for weeks, like a ship at sea, before reaching the next world. The ship's mission is to explore the reaches of the other realms, and to locate where The Mirani came from, as well as potentially find treasures and wonders to return back to Evadil with in a few years' time.
Character Creation Rules:
NOTE: While no major requirements are needed, keep in mind that the captain is basically the top of the heirarchy, but also the one who takes responsibility for everyone else on ship.
NOTE: It is advised having some social-based skills, such as Persuasion to keep morale up, and Intimidation to keep the unruly ones in check.
NOTE: An intelligent character works well for the quartermaster, knowing how to manage what is needed and what is extra. No hardcore maths required, I'll do that behind the scenes, but Investigation is always useful to check no one is stealing extra resources from the stores.
NOTE: You must be a spellcaster with a minimum of a 1st level spell slot in order to operate a spelljamming helm.
NOTE: What is advised is someone trained in Medicine, and preferrably with access to spells that can either heal or remove debuffs.
NOTE: This is where the knowledge skills are very useful, as people will be relying on you to know things. Keep in mind you are all from a planet that has only just gained Spelljamming capabilities, so you don't need to know things OOC. Knowledge skills, like Arcana and Nature are pretty useful for this role.
FAQs:
Send me a link to it (it needs to be integrated into D&D Beyond) and build your character with it, and I'll have a look at it. Keep in mind that if it conflicts with the stuff mentioned above, then it'll be a no.
See the Character creation spoiler above.
Is it before the deadline, which is in bold, red writing at the top of this post? Then sure!
I personally have run out of content shares. However, we can arrange such things if a player cannot supply it, so still work out your character with the resources and if you don't have them, we'll work something out.
Yes!
I would prefer players who can post daily (weekdays mostly), but if you can't make every day (real life unfortunately gets in the way of the thing that truly matters, D&D) then that's fine, just pop down how often you think you'd be able to post.
Simple! Just copy the Character Form spoiler and fill it in with your character. Ensure you've posted before the end of the deadline (I will put a post to confirm when this is closed) and that's all you need to do.
Nope. In fact, it probably helps since this campaign is about a planet's first visitation to the worlds beyond! Feel free to look things up, but I'm using artistic license for some of this.
I'm going to say yes, but a max of 2 character concepts.
I'll be running on D&D Beyond. If there is a demand for something like a Discord server I'll set something up, but only if it is a majority vote of the players.
The 4-6 group ideally. Remember: it isn't first-come, first-served, so feel free to apply before the deadline.
Yes. I plan to be impartial on whether you've played with me, DM'd for me, I've DM'd for you, or never met you before!
You may start with your class and background starting equipment, plus 200 gp. You may buy one common item for 100 gp, however if it is a magical version of another basic item (like a weapon, armour, or spellcasting focus), then you must either spend the money that item would cost, or trade in a nonmagical equivalent version of it. Basically, no free plate armour for the paladin.
For example, if you picked a moon-touched sword, scimitar, you can either spend 125 gold (100 for common magic item, plus 25 for the scimitar), or spend 100 gold and trade in a scimitar from your starting equipment.
You're from a fairly backwater planet in the grand scheme of things. The world isn't that advanced, and their heroes generally are though of as legendary when they reach level 7. It's a lot less deadly or epic as other campaign worlds, so level 3 adventurers are pretty hardcore for your world.
Yes, there will be extra rules to learn, but I'll be going through it step by step and trying to make it almost like a learn-by-play to not overload players.
Yes! Feel free to build your character with some interesting ideas, think about why you have multiple vocations and when you had a change in professions.
We'll use the Deities of the Forgotten Realms provided in the basic rules. It is not compulsary to worship a deity, so there is no need to pick one. There may be other pantheons that you can discover in the future!
Character Form:
My Profile
Name: <your name you want to be referred to OOC. Can be your username, or something a little shorter if you like.>
Available: <how often are you on D&D Beyond? Can you post daily, every couple of days, once a week?>
Character Profile
Name: <insert character name>
Race: <insert character race and subrace>
Class: <insert character classes and archetypes>
Background: <insert character background>
Crew Position: <what position on the ship would you take?>
Backstory: <Brief explanation as to how you ended up becoming a member on the Spelljammer. Just a couple of sentences will do, no need to go super in depth.>
Current Player In: The Guild as Elsara Deepmoon
My Profile
Name: Oddlot
Available: Daily+
Character Profile
Name: Isuzu
Race: Warforged Envoy (--Masque--Female-Prototype --Integrated Tool Disguise Kit--)
Class: Cleric 1 (--Knowledge Domain--) / Druid 1 / Warlock 1 (--The Great Old One--)
Background: Envoy (Diplomat/Courtier)
Crew Position: Arcane Researcher (--Science Officer--) or (--Boxed Option--)
Backstory: Isuzu is a prototype 'Warforged-Envoy-Masque' a bio-synthetic replicate constructed to appear as human-like as possible in form/function and programmed to perfectly simulate human behavior in all types of human interactions. Her artificial endoskeletal structure is concealed under a layer of synthetic-skin. Isuzu comes fully 'unboxed' and activated at mission start as a standard crew member. Fully programmed personality and hard-wired skill protocols including Medicine, Science (Arcana and Nature), as well as Astronavigation proficient with Cartographer and Navigator tools. Capable and rated to operate/pilot most Spelljamming vessels. Note that fully-equipped certified Geisha companion option is a premium extra.
Please contact your nearest Isuzu-Synthetics dealer for pricing and availability.
As a synthetic Isuzu does not eat, drink, sleep or breathe and available in a 'boxed-option' (power-downed/deactivated) state for direct to vessel cargo storage until needed at a later date. Ideal for deep-space Spelljamming missions to be activated as an emergency backup crew replacement.
Gotta reserve this post!! Currently at work and I get out later in the day, I’ll edit this post with the character I wish to use, I hope that’s okay c:!
Finally home! Here we go c:
My Profile
Name: Cherri
Available: Pretty much everyday, if something happens and I can't post, I usually notify my DM's
Character Profile
Name: Vyserra Sov
Race: High Elf
Class: Paladin, Oath of Devotion
Background: Folk Hero
Crew Position: First mate
Backstory:
Vyserra was born into a family with a long line of paladins. She is the youngest of 4 brothers and despite having their protection, she was determined to learn to defend herself, knowing that they will not be with her forever. No female Sov had ever become a paladin before having often being trained in a more mundane “feminine” roles. Her brothers were already in training in becoming paladins, and she always had watched them in awe, but when she asked her parents to allow her to train as well, they declined and forced her to into more "lady like" activities. As she aged, she grew more and more frustrated, her brothers taking notice and training her in secret.
Vyserra, with the use of her training, managed to become a small hero to the town she grew up in, but no one truly knew of her identity, using a mask to cover her features to beat the bad guys. When she would return home, she would always speak of her little adventures to her brothers in private. After a few years, the topic of telling her parents of her secret training came into light and they eventually ended up showing their parents what Vyserra was made of, and showed how she had such potential to join in the ranks.
They were far from pleased with her and her brothers, enforcing her to stay inside (if she ever wanted to go out she had to have someone with her) and always having someone keep an eye on her. This caused a rift between her and her parents.
But she never stopped training herself, using whatever knowledge her brothers had given her to continue to be stronger than any male Sov had ever been.
In time she managed to get away from her family by putting in an application to join aboard the Spelljammer. Even if she were to mop up the deck and scrub the floors, at least she would be able to break out of the shackles her family locked her into.
Aeyd of the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk
Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm
Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid
Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue
Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm
/ᐠ。ꞈ。ᐟ\
Of course, feel free to post in your own time. It's open for the rest of the week to add a character option or two :-)
Current Player In: The Guild as Elsara Deepmoon
Such a cool concept to play around with. If nothing else, I look forward to seeing what other ideas people come up with for this setting!
Name: Jabthar
Available: daily
Character Profile
Name: Orpheus-2
Race: Warforged (envoy)
Class: Warlock
Background: Acolyte
Crew Position: Arcane researcher or quartermaster
Backstory: Orpheus-2 was originally constructed for the sole purpose of diplomacy. Specifically, diplomacy with Devils. Establishing diplomatic relations in the nine Hells has always been tricky, though at last a workable solution was found. Orpheus-2 (and his predecessor, Orpheus-1) were built to facilitate communication and positive relations between the chaos bent, fiery denizens of Hell, and the (sometimes) peaceful surface dwellers who wished to avoid eternal enslavement. Recalled from its mission below, Orpheus-2's application was submitted on the grounds that his extensive experience with inhumans, as well as the relationship he still maintains with the forces of Hell, might be of great use on the voyage.
My Profile:
Character Profile: (I initially built this character for a different campaign, but was rejected for that one. I wanted to try him out somewhere.)
Do the character sheets need to be made in DnD Beyond? I'm relatively new to it and don't know how important a DnD Beyond specific character sheet is over a standard form fillable sheet.
Wildspace, the final frontier! These are the voyages of the spelljammer Maiden Horizon. It's mission: to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life and civilization, and to boldly go where no humanoid has gone before...
My Profile
Name: Karnic
Available: Practically everyday
Character Profile
Name: Leonard 'Bones' McCoy
Race: Human, Variant
Class: Cleric, Life Domain
Background: Guild Artisan
Crew Position: Medic!
Backstory: Leonard's family were alchemists by trade and his family were members of the city's local Artisan Guild. Though he was taught in the ways of alchemy, Leonard felt himself drawn to the church and entered their service as a physician, where he earned the nickname Bones. Eventually he became a full fledged cleric and took up the study of healing through divine magics. While with the church, he heard about recruitment for The Maiden Horizon and it's journey into the final frontier which captivated his imagination. So, Leonard decided to put in an application to become one of the medics on The Maiden Horizon in hopes to see what awaits beyond the horizon.
(Do you have a specific list of deities to pick from?)
Be excellent to each other, and roll for initiative dudes!
My Profile
Name: Chrominator, Chrome, or my character's name, whichever works.
Available: Ideally, I can post at least once per day.
Character Profile
Name: Captain Echor Lanthir
Race: High Elf
Class: Rogue (Arcane Trickster)
Background: Soldier
Crew Position: Captain
Backstory: "Attention!
Did you expect anyone but an elf? Clearly, your potential assumption has been proven incorrect. I, Captain Lanthir, am your leader, much as it disappoints me to have to say it. But it was...decided, by my superiors, that it would be...unwise to allow a le- that is, less prepared captain to pilot a newly equipped ship such as this unsupervised. Not desiring to prove this hypothesis, my superiors have placed me in charge of this unusual operation. After all, I have thus far experienced a remarkably successful career in the military field.
But I am well aware that some of you, most likely those unfamiliar with my prestige, may be...wary of trusting my abilities in a position so new to any of us. With this in mind, I ask that you please submit any concerns or complaints in written form to my cabin, where I may read them, analyze them, and assign those responsible for them to latrine duty.
...
That is all."
Lanthir grew up in a position of privilege, being an elf, and moved up relatively quickly in the military ranks. He hoped to eventually land a comfortable position, away from "all the fuss" of active duty, but was assigned to this job (against his will) by his elven superiors, who recognized his talents as a tactician and his sense of duty. Apparently Spelljammer elves are extremely militaristic, which is fun. I'm completely new to Spelljammer and had no idea! Lanthir has very little interest in exploration or adventure, and is just doing his job, no more. He's no coward, but he's not the charismatic leader many may have hoped for. He'll explore because he's been told to, but don't expect him to like it.)
A gaunt, rather disgruntled looking high elf, possessing pale skin and long, silky white hair, Captain Lanthir wears the uniform appropriate to his position, always as clean and neat-looking as possible.
And that's all I have to say about that.
My Profile
Name: Jimmy
Available: once a day but not always on weekends
Character Profile
Name: Julien
Race: Warforged Envoy
Class: rogue 2 / warlock(hexblade) 1
Background: Mercenary Veteran
Crew Position: Pilot
Backstory: <
Julian was designed to be duel purpose. His primary function is locate target, kill target. After the coming of the Mirami, his primary function was no longer neccesary so he adapted his skills and eventually became a pilot.
Any multiclassing restrictions? I was hoping to make a fighter-1 then the rest in bard for a captain. Figured that’d round out this character nicely with a fighting style, and a more “moved up through the ranks” background. If not, I can just go all bard.
Name: noah
Available: every day
Character Profile
Name: Ivan Bariat
Race: Shifter - Beasthide
Class: Fighter -1 Bard-2 (valor)
Background: Soldier
Crew Position: Captain
Backstory: Ivan is a career military man who’s known for his versatility as a commander, and considered a good luck charm by most of his commanders.
Ivan has often been at odds with his animal aspect. He has spent his life tightly gripping the reins of his soul. With this discipline, he drove himself forward into a successful career in the military as a squad commander. Recently up for promotion, he was selected to command the Windjammer mission. During the course of his training, he spent time learning from some of the world’s experts in magic, combat, diplomacy and history. Ivan can be a bit rough around the edges, but his divided nature will be an asset. Only someone with the skills, abilities, and vigilance will lead them to success.
I imagine him looking like a lion when he’s shifted, and a very serious, but somewhat shaggy looking human when he’s not. Let’s get him some scars!
https://www.dndbeyond.com/profile/nschrock/characters/5689254
Paladin - warforged - orange
Just an observation, but on most big ships, the Captain stands alone as master of the vessel, while the trifecta just beneath the captain consists of 1) chief deckhand/bosun, 2) chief engineer, and 3) chief steward/quartermaster. I'm not familiar with whether or not each of these three roles would have an analog on a spelljammer ship, so they may not be necessary. Just wanted to put it out there for consideration. Will be submitting at least one option before too long. Thanks for running this, Pokepaladdy.
Playing in:
Shepherds of Truth - Thomas Roth, Shepherd of Mystra
Aerovail, Cities in the Sky - Aidan Burke, Smuggler
The Missing Schema - Trigger, Morgrave Trap-Breaker
Echoes of the Past - Einar Barruk, Fight Club Brawler
Once in Waterdeep - Nagao Jun, Windwise Wanderer
My Profile
Name: Craig is fine
Available: everyday, running two games myself on DND beyond so pretty frequently.
Character Profile
Name: Xavier Y’zendril
Race: half elf
Class: sorcerer- wild magic
Background: Sage/cloistered scholar
Crew Position: arcane researcher
background: being the first one in the family to possess any magical talent was a surprise. Especially since the first time Xavier or his family were aware of it came from a sneeze. Poor Rufus the family dog was never the same after that. With his powers growing, so did his anxiety. Becoming fearful that anything that can go wrong would go wrong. He figured he would keep to his books and keep his head down, hopefully there would be an answer to his curse somewhere out in the stars. He followed up and enlisted on the maiden horizon.
# 2
Name: Cruz Forlox
Race: High elf
class: fighter battle master
Background: Urchin
Crew Position: Pilot (I would also work with a leadership role)
Backstory: Growing up poor with a single mother. Cruz learned how to stick up for himself quickly. Never knowing when not to cross the line. He found himself on the wrong side of the law occasionally. Minor infractions mostly until he stole a vehicle and got into a major chase. He was given a choice jail or put his skills to use.
My Profile
Name: Knight
Available: Multiple times a day, almost everyday (barring emergencies and the like)
Character Profile (#1)
Name: Kaala Yol
Race: Kobold
Class: Sorcerer, Draconic Bloodline
Background: Cloistered Scholar
Crew Position: Pilot
Backstory: Being a naturally inventive race, Kobolds proved to be exceptionally well-suited to the constructive process that gave birth to the Maiden's Horizon, and few beings understand the ship's inner workings better than Kaala Yol. This energetic and slightly excitable red-scale was chosen as the Maiden's pilot in no small part due to that familiarity, but also because of the innate magic of her bloodline and her optimistic, joyful personality.
Playing in:
Shepherds of Truth - Thomas Roth, Shepherd of Mystra
Aerovail, Cities in the Sky - Aidan Burke, Smuggler
The Missing Schema - Trigger, Morgrave Trap-Breaker
Echoes of the Past - Einar Barruk, Fight Club Brawler
Once in Waterdeep - Nagao Jun, Windwise Wanderer
Name: Kevin
Available: a few times a day
Character Profile
Name: Armistar
Race: Wood Elf
Class: Monk
Background: Outlander
Crew Position: First Mate, captain
Backstory: Armistar was sent off at a young age to the monastery where he was raised. He was raised by a traveling monk who took him all around the world. This lead to a wanderlust he couldn't satisfy by staying on the planet, so when his mentor died (of old age) he was the first to sign up. The thought of seeing new worlds seemed like the culmination of a lifetime of wandering.
My Profile
Name: Most people online just call me Neo.
Available: Daily, usually multiple times per day, unless unforeseen events come up IRL.
Character Profile
Name: Jorunn "Tallstrider" Hartwick
Race: Half-Giant ("Goliath")
Class: Fighter (Brute)
Background: Sailor
Crew Position: First Mate (Realistically I feel like this character concept is a bit young to have been given the responsibilities of the First Mate, but it's the role that she fits best, and one that she would be able/reluctantly willing to fill in the event of the original First Mate's untimely demise.)
Backstory: Raised among her seafaring tribesfolk, Jorunn has long looked up at the clear night sky and dreamed of sailing through the stars. When she heard rumors of a ship that could do just that when her clan's vessel was stopped over at a major port city, the news seemed too good to be true, but that didn't stop her from inquiring more and finding that indeed, a project was underway that aimed to reach out for the stars. She immediately signed up to begin the training process, though she was quite young and inexperienced compared to the majority of applicants at the time, having barely entered her 17th summer. Despite this, her hard work and dedication to the cause did not go unnoticed by the higher-ups, and when she proved herself physically more than capable of handling the job, she was offered a position among the crew.
My Profile See Above
Character Profile (#2)
Name: Alastar
Race: Vedalken
Class: Warlock, GOO Patron, Pact of the Tome
Background: Sage
Crew Position: Arcane Researcher
Backstory: Even before the arrival of the Mirrani, Alastar was a well-regarded astrologer, most celebrated for his exceptionally accurate almanacs, which he based on his observations of the heavens. In the years following First Contact, none could match his skill in the area of astro-navigational theory, which all but guaranteed his selection as navigator and chief archivist for the Horizon's maiden voyage. He is considered a brilliant but dispassionate observer by most, though in truth, this mission is deeply personal for the 120 year old Vedalken. For the past sixty years, Alastar has been plagued by dreams of alien creatures of immense and terrible power beyond the ken of his homeworld, and he aims to search them out and learn how to keep them from destroying it.
Playing in:
Shepherds of Truth - Thomas Roth, Shepherd of Mystra
Aerovail, Cities in the Sky - Aidan Burke, Smuggler
The Missing Schema - Trigger, Morgrave Trap-Breaker
Echoes of the Past - Einar Barruk, Fight Club Brawler
Once in Waterdeep - Nagao Jun, Windwise Wanderer
Name: Jabthar
Available: Usually daily
Character Profile
Name: Rhys Aitken
Race: Kalashtar
Class: Bard (College of Lore)
Background: Criminal
Crew Position: Quartermaster
Backstory: A roguish member of the esteemed Bard College of Lore, Rhys was only recently released from probation after a misunderstanding with achief archivist and "arbitrary rules regarding the restricted sections of the College's Lore." Despite his many exploits and foibles, Rhys's natural curiosity and charisma inexorably drew his interest to the Maiden Horizon's maiden voyage. Armed with a superb eye for detail and a memory sharper than his blade, Rhys is hopeful that his application will be considered, carefully if at all.
We'll be using D&D Beyond to keep track of characters. Don't worry if you haven't made a character on here before, just place your character concept down and we can work on building it together if you need any help with it :-)
Multiclassing is fine, so long as it seems suitable. Think of a reason why you switched vocations while at home, maybe it can create some interesting character concepts.
Yeah, I thought I'd put a little twist on the typical IRL work, basically allowing for if whomever the captain to get some help with the main "in charge" roles, and if they aren't available IRL for a bit, there are two backups to take lead. The ship will have about 20 mooks that are there as stand-ins for the other random jobs on the ship.
Current Player In: The Guild as Elsara Deepmoon
♪There's dragons on the starboard bough, starboard bough, starboard bough!♪
Not particularly. I suppose we could go with the list provided here in the basic rules, which is the Forgotten Realms pantheon.
Current Player In: The Guild as Elsara Deepmoon