A Crown of Reform, A Court of Knives

Creating your character

Characters will start at Level 1. Please create your character before Session 0 so we can work together on refining their backstory, relationships, and how they fit into the world of Slothia. The main aspects (class, race, background, etc.) should be decided before the session, but we’ll collaborate on details during play prep. We’ll be using the D&D 5e 2024 Player’s Handbook as the primary source. If you’d like to reference material from other official books, please check with me first to ensure it fits the tone and balance of the campaign. Ability scores will be determined by rolling 4d6, dropping the lowest die, and totaling the remaining three. You’ll roll these in my presence (either in-person or in the campaign’s online space) so we can celebrate or commiserate together. Think about who your character is, what drives them, and why they might be in the Court of the Ember Savannah at this critical time. Whether they’re a native of Slothia or a newcomer with their own goals, the most important thing is that your character has a reason to care about the fate of the High Lady and her court.

Preparing for the session

Before we start, please make sure you have the following: Webcam (if possible), microphone, and a stable internet connection. A Discord account — this will be our main hub for communication, updates, and file sharing. Access to your character sheet (physical or digital) for Session 0. Rules & Knowledge You don’t need to know every rule in the game — I’ll provide a handout with the basic rules of D&D for quick reference. Please be familiar with the rules for your class and any character-specific abilities so you can play confidently. Character Creation Create your character before Session 0. It doesn’t have to be perfect — but you should have your core choices (race, class, background) ready so we can fine-tune details together. We’ll be using Level 1 characters, the D&D 5e 2024 Player’s Handbook as the main source, and 4d6 (drop lowest) for ability scores. Rolls will be done in my presence.

What Fede brings to the table

I use custom maps and backgrounds so there is always a way to imagine the place. combat is not intense, but it can be tactical at times. i embrace the rule of cool and will let anything go as long as its not too powerful and it makes for a better plot and its fun.

Homebrew rules

Session Recaps = Heroic Inspiration At the start of each session, one player may give a recap of what happened last time. If you do, you’ll receive Heroic Inspiration as a reward. Secret Death Saves Death saving throws will be rolled in secret, with only the DM and the player knowing the results. This keeps tension high and surprises intact. Roleplay-Driven Charisma Checks If you act out your Charisma-based checks — whether it’s Performance, Intimidation, Deception, or Persuasion — you may gain advantage on the roll if your delivery impresses the table. Drinking a Healing Potion is a Bonus Action

How Fede creates a safe table

Session 0 is very important — it’s where we set expectations, talk about the tone of the campaign, and make sure everyone feels safe, respected, and excited to play. Open communication is key to a good game. If at any point you are feeling uncomfortable, overwhelmed, or simply not having fun, you can let me know privately or in the moment, and I will stop whatever is bothering you — no questions asked. Your comfort always comes first. We will also use Lines & Veils (topics we avoid entirely, or fade to black) and the X, N, & O cards system for safety during play: X = Stop immediately; we will pivot without explanation. N = Not now; I’m okay with the topic, but not in this moment. O = I’m okay with this and enjoying where it’s going. These can be used verbally, in Discord messages, or physically if we’re in person. I’ll also provide a digital Lines & Veils form before Session 0 so you can set boundaries privately. After intense or emotional scenes, we’ll do quick aftercare check-ins to make sure everyone feels okay moving forward. This can be a group discussion or a private message, depending on your preference. The goal is simple: everyone at the table should feel safe, respected, and able to enjoy the story we’re telling together.