The Haunting of Blightchester
An isolated manor, whispered secrets, and shadows that move on their own—step into Blighchester, where the past refuses to rest.
$30.00
/ Session
Details
Once / Friday - 12:00 AM UTC
Feb 20
Session Duration / 3–4 hours
1 / 6 Seats Filled
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Meet your party members
1/6
About the adventure
Welcome to The Haunting of Blighchester, a Victorian gothic horror one-shot. The grand Blighchester Manor looms over the surrounding, rain-sodden moors. You are drawn here by the safety it promises in the storm—but the manor has a will of its own, and it may not let you leave unscathed. This game focuses on atmosphere, mystery, and character-driven tension rather than combat-heavy play. Expect flickering candlelight, slow dread, unsettling discoveries, and moments that test both intellect and courage. Choices matter: every decision can change how the story unfolds. The session emphasizes immersive storytelling, collaborative role-play, and emotional stakes. While horror is central, the game is carefully moderated to prioritize player safety, consent, and comfort. Players will have opportunities to explore their characters’ fears, relationships, and moral dilemmas in a richly detailed Victorian setting. Whether you are a newcomer to TTRPGs or a seasoned investigator of the strange and macabre, you’ll find a story that rewards curiosity, careful observation, and engagement with the world and its people.
Game style
Theater of the Mind
Game themes
Meet the Game Master
2 years on StartPlaying
1 game hosted
Average response time: 24+ hours
Response rate: 100%
About me
Hello! I’m Ashley May—a professional Game Master, horror writer, and storyteller with a deep love for atmosphere, character, and stories that linger long after the candles burn low. I’ve been running tabletop RPGs for over a decade, with a particular fondness for cosmic horror, gothic dread, and emotionally driven narratives. I gravitate toward games that reward curiosity, tension, and meaningful choices, and I strive to create sessions that feel immersive, intentional, and unforgettable. I’ve had the pleasure of facilitating games for conventions and special events, including Cthulhu in the Castle. I enjoy welcoming both new and experienced players and introducing them to rich worlds and systems. I’m also a trainer with Geek Therapeutics and a certified therapeutic Game Master, which informs how I approach safety, consent, and collaborative storytelling. Player comfort, communication, and trust are foundational at my table. If you’re looking for a game that values mood, story, and character over mechanics alone, I’d be delighted to guide you into the dark.
View Profile →Character creation
Creating your character
Characters should be created before the session using a short form I’ll provide. Investigators will follow standard Call of Cthulhu rules, with guidance for stats and skills to ensure they fit the gothic, atmospheric tone of the game. You don’t need multiple books—just the resources I’ll provide. I’ll review characters with each player at the start of the session to make sure everyone feels confident and ready to step into Blighchester Manor.
What to expect
Preparing for the session
Before the game, players should complete a few preparatory steps. First, fill out the character creation form I provide and review the instructions for stats, skills, and background. You’ll also need access to Discord, as this will host the game, session links, and handouts. Make sure you have any necessary software downloaded for audio/video so you can participate fully. Finally, review your character sheet and any setting notes I provide ahead of time to ensure you’re ready to immerse yourself in the manor’s mysteries.
What Ashley May King brings to the table
Players can expect a fully immersive gothic experience, with atmospheric descriptions, distinct NPC voices, and subtle ambient sounds to set the mood. Combat is minimal, focused on meaningful challenges and consequences. I balance narrative and mechanics, leaning toward the Rule of Cool when it enhances story impact. All handouts, session notes, and maps will be shared digitally, and character props are welcome but optional. My goal is to create a tense, eerie, and memorable experience that highlights storytelling, mood, and character choices.
Equipment needed to play
Internet
Computer
Microphone
Platforms used
Safety
How Ashley May King creates a safe table
Player safety is paramount. I use the Virtual Deck of Player Safety and X-Cards, which can be used digitally, via chat, or held up on video. The Deck of Player Safety link will be provided, and we’ll review it in Session 0 to discuss boundaries, tone, and expectations.
Content warnings
Safety tools used