Armies of Despair: The Desolation of Ezra

About the adventure

I'm thrilled to have you at the table! Here’s a glimpse into the setting: The Armies of Despair: Desolation of Ezra is the first in an epic three-part campaign, spanning levels 3 to 20. Inspired by the brutal battles of WWI and other large-scale conflicts, this setting weaves together elements of warfare, dark magic, and explores the concepts of true good and evil, along with the moral ambiguity of war. The Armies of Despair (AoD) are led by Emperor Aegis Despair IV, an ancient Tiefling noble and head of Fogholt. Founded centuries ago on Ezra’s eastern coast as a haven for persecuted Tieflings, Fogholt became an empire where Tieflings ruled and Dragonborn served as laborers, soldiers, and officials. Through its powerful magical industry, Fogholt grew prosperous and became the world’s leading producer of enchanted items. Despair Wares are so widespread that even Ezra’s peasants sleep with a +1 weapon beside them, transforming the region into a high-magic land. For years, Fogholt remained largely peaceful—until five years ago, when Aegis imposed strict penalties on unsanctioned magic, tolerating only that blessed by Nuitari, god of evil magic. Soon after, Aegis sent his army across Ezra. But instead of invading, the AoD marched through the land, proclaiming Nuitari’s claim over all Ezra. Massive black orbs appeared in the skies, dampening non-Nuitari magic and limiting teleportation and other spells near them. The Elves, Dwarves, and Half-Orcs, wary of breaking the peace, allowed this march to continue through their lands unchallenged. Tensions rose when Aegis discovered the humans of Ezra’s western coast had crafted firearms. When the AoD demanded this technology, the humans refused, and the AoD retaliated, revealing pacts with Chromatic Dragons. These dragons unleashed fiery attacks before AoD soldiers reached city gates, devastating human strongholds. The AoD seized firearm production knowledge, using it to expand their power across Ezra. Appalled by the AoD’s tactics, the Elves, Dwarves, and Half-Orcs formed The Last United Army of Elves, Dwarves, and Half-Orcs—or the EDO. Eighteen months into this brutal war, the EDO is outmatched but determined, and they’re turning to unconventional allies. Your Role in the Fight: The campaign begins as your party, a group of EDO-hired mercenaries, journeys to the front lines. Some come seeking revenge, others after glory or coin. But rumors of a new black orb soon to appear over the occupied orc fortress of Throk raise the stakes. Whispers abound that Morthos Angelbane, a terrifying warrior and brilliant tactician leading the AoD’s western forces, is behind Throk’s occupation. Each step toward the front brings new dangers and choices to test your loyalty, resolve, and purpose.