Skeldwyn: Tea, Talons, and Tiny Dragons | A D&D 5E One-shot

Creating your character

Character creation happens before the session, and I’ll help you every step of the way! You’re welcome to bring your own Level 3 character or choose from my collection of flavorful premade PCs designed specifically for this setting (tea witches, glider pilots, pseudo-dragon keepers, etc.). Here’s how it works: Level: Start at Level 3 Races Allowed: Any official 5e race except Dragonborn and Kobolds (not present in this setting). Custom Lineage and Homebrew races not allowed for one-shots unless cleared ahead of time. Classes: All official WotC 5e classes and subclasses are allowed. No homebrew classes, but UA can be approved on a case-by-case basis. Backgrounds: Any published 5e background. You can also reflavor one to fit the world (e.g., Courier, Tinker, Wildflame Herbalist, Aetherwright). Stats: Use Standard Array (15, 14, 13, 12, 10, 8) or Point Buy. Equipment: Start with standard class/background gear. You may flavor mundane items to match the world (e.g., “tinker’s tools” = aether-repair kit). Sources: Official books only (Player’s Handbook, Xanathar’s, Tasha’s, etc.). Character Sheet Platform: I use D&D Beyond — you’ll receive a link to join the game after booking. If you’re not sure what to build, don’t worry! I love helping players find characters that feel fun, meaningful, and perfect for this world. You can also message me and I’ll build one with you.

Preparing for the session

Players should bring a spirit of curiosity and collaboration, no heavy prep required! Here's what to do before game day: 1. Join our Discord server for updates, scheduling, and bonus lore drops: invite link will be provided after booking. 2. We’ll be playing on a simple, streamlined VTT or Theater of the Mind via [Roll20]. A free account may be needed depending on platform used. 3. Please ensure you have a mic, headphones, and a quiet space to play. Webcam optional. 4. You’ll receive a short player brief before the game, including world tone, setting intro, and helpful tips on bonding with dragons. You may either: Bring a Level 3 character (any published 5e race/class, no dragonborns or kobolds in this setting), or choose from a selection of premade character sheets, tailored to the world of Skeldwyn. Hosting of sheets on DnD Beyond campaign with enabled content sharing. Above all, come ready to explore a world of skytrams, tea-brewing dragons, and cozy mysteries; no min-maxing required, just bring your heart.

What Fern brings to the table

I run games with a focus on cinematic storytelling, emotional moments, and low-pressure whimsy. Here’s what I bring to the table: 1. A beautifully crafted homebrew world (Skeldwyn) full of dragons, gliders, cozy towns, sky duels, and magical tea rituals. 2. Original art, custom maps, and flavorful setting handouts to draw you into the world. 3. A warm, inclusive table that welcomes both new and veteran players. 4. Light ambient music to enhance the scene, occasional character voices (but never overdone), and sound cues when it helps the mood. 5. Roleplay-forward adventures where your decisions shape the story; not dice alone. 6. A blend of Rules-as-Written and Rule of Cool. I respect the mechanics, but when a player says, “Can I do this cool thing?” my answer is usually “Let’s find a way.” 7. Combat that’s cinematic and meaningful, not a slog. Expect one impactful encounter per one-shot, with strong flavor and context. 8. Clear session pacing: we’ll open with light slice-of-life, unravel a cozy mystery, and end with a memorable climax; no rush, no drag. I’m here to support story arcs, character emotion, and giving your PC a place to belong in a whimsical, grounded world.

Homebrew rules

This game uses light, narrative-friendly homebrew to support roleplay and tone. Nothing complex, just tweaks to keep things flowing: Potions as Bonus Actions: because nobody wants to spend their whole turn sipping tea. Roleplay Advantage: if you play into your PC’s bond, flaw, or background in a meaningful way, I may award advantage, inspiration, or a narrative edge. Companion Dragon Bonds (Optional): players may form connections with pseudo-dragons or lesser drakes through roleplay. These are not full pets or summons, but offer small roleplay boons, messenger abilities, or unique flavor. Modified Death Saves: after 3 failed saves, characters fall unconscious for the rest of the scene. Death only occurs if the fiction supports it, or a major sacrifice is dramatically appropriate. This is a cozy world, high-tragedy death spirals are rare. Drama comes from choice, not dice alone.

How Fern creates a safe table

Lines & Veils, X/N/O Cards, Open Table Policy