​Odyssey of the Dragonlords: Heroes of Thylea – Free Session 0

Creating your character

🧙‍♂️ Character Creation Character creation will take place before the campaign officially begins, during our dedicated Session 0. This session is fully focused on: - Setting expectations and tone - Defining personal and group boundaries - Finalizing character sheets - Weaving each character into the narrative and world of Thylea --- 📌 Important Details: - Starting Level: 1 (unless stated otherwise) - Ability Scores: Standard Array or Point Buy   🔗 Recommended tool: Point Buy Calculator https://chicken-dinner.com/5e/5e-point-buy.html - Character Sheets: Created on D&D Beyond, integrated with our Foundry VTT server (https://foundry.yanbraga.com) - Starting Equipment: Choose from class/background OR take average gold (reference table will be provided) --- 📘 Allowed Content: Character creation follows the specific rules and lore of the Thylea setting, which differs significantly from traditional 5e assumptions. Please refer to the Thylean Player Guide (link below) to understand the world, available races, backgrounds, and divine relationships that shape your hero’s role in the story. 🔗 Thylean Character Creation Guide https://drive.yanbraga.com/cc-ootdl/character-creation-ootdl Homebrew or third-party content may be considered on a case-by-case basis — just reach out beforehand! 📝 Before Session 0: Players are encouraged to bring a character concept with a rough backstory and mechanical draft. This helps us tailor the session to fully integrate your character into the mythic tapestry of Thylea. ⚠️ Note: While the DM will assist with rule interpretation and adjustments, players are responsible for keeping their character sheets updated throughout the campaign. Full support will be provided during Session 0 if needed.

Preparing for the session

To participate, players will need to have the following prepared: Functional microphone (mandatory) — It’s okay to use your phone for voice if needed. Webcam is optional, based on player preference. A Discord account for game communications and session voice chat. A modern web browser to access Foundry VTT (Recommended: Foundry Lightweight Client available at https://foundry.ruleplaying.com/flc for best performance.) A D&D Beyond account for character creation and management. Additionally: Familiarize yourself with your character’s concept and backstory ahead of Session 0. No deep rulebook knowledge is required — the DM will guide the rules and rulings during the game. However, basic understanding of your class features is appreciated! Whether you are new to D&D 5e or a seasoned adventurer, you will find a welcoming and exciting experience — with full support provided to make your character shine in the story.

What DM Yan brings to the table

I aim to create a truly immersive and memorable tabletop experience. I run games using FoundryVTT as the main platform, fully integrated with dynamic sound effects both inside the VTT (combat sounds, spell effects, ambient layers) and through Discord, where thematic music, environmental sounds (tavern, forest, storms, etc.), and specific sound cues (thunder, lyres, whispers) enhance every scene. Maps are carefully selected from renowned artists like Cze and Peku, and Tom Cartos. Tokens are also sourced from professional creators, but for important NPCs and unique creatures, I design custom tokens to guarantee a distinctive visual identity. Players also receive visual handouts, session summaries, and a Player’s Guide (currently in Portuguese, with English versions coming soon). My GM style balances deep narrative and tactical combat. I deliver rich descriptions of settings, character actions, and the impact of every key moment. During combat, I encourage smart tactics while giving space for cinematic narration. I embrace the "Rule of Cool" as my primary philosophy — prioritizing what's fun, epic, and engaging — but I can adjust to a more RAW (Rules As Written) approach if the table prefers. NPCs are brought to life with distinct voices and mannerisms, adding a dynamic and memorable layer to the story. I run truly player-driven narratives: I never force pre-written plots because I believe players are the true protagonists of the world. Every session’s audio is recorded through Discord, allowing players to revisit epic moments whenever they wish, with optional editing and posting based on the group’s preference. I also offer continuous support outside of sessions for character building, world integration, rule clarifications, or any questions that may arise. I warmly welcome both newcomers and experienced players. Enthusiasm and engagement matter far more to me than prior system knowledge. If you’re looking for games filled with immersive environments, rich storytelling, meaningful choices, vibrant characters, and tactical, exciting combat — you’ll find yourself right at home here.

How DM Yan creates a safe table

Before every campaign, I host a thorough Session 0 where we discuss key elements such as session duration, group expectations, character ties, sensitive topics to avoid (Lines and Veils), narrative desires (Wishes), and the overall tone of the campaign. Players who join an ongoing campaign are always brought up to speed, and any additional safety boundaries they may have are respected and incorporated into the group norms. Lines and Veils are discussed verbally and documented collaboratively on our campaign’s Notion page, which is regularly reviewed and updated before each session to ensure ongoing comfort. At the end of every session, I hold a dedicated feedback moment where each player can share highlights ("Stars") and less enjoyable elements ("Wishes") of the session. These are collected verbally and recorded in our DRFS (Session Summary Document). This is a respectful space where players are encouraged to discuss not only gameplay and storytelling but also interpersonal dynamics—always with the shared goal of maintaining a fun, inclusive table. If I sense discomfort or emotional strain from a player, I promptly follow up with a one-on-one video call or private message to check in. If needed, I adapt the tone, pacing, or structure of the campaign—balancing combat, roleplay, and drama—to match the evolving preferences of the group. My goal is to create a safe, immersive, and collaborative experience where everyone feels heard, respected, and free to enjoy the magic of shared storytelling.