Adeptus Mechanicus | The Sleeping Dynasty

Creating your character

Characters will be created during Session Zero or with me beforehand if you join after the campaign begins. All player characters will begin as members, agents, or associates of an Adeptus Mechanicus Explorator expedition. You do not need to be a Tech-Priest to participate but it is STRONGLY recommended to consider the character options in the AM player's guide. Suitable concepts include Tech-Priests, Enginseers, Skitarii, Administratum adepts, sanctioned specialists, voidfarers, guardsmen, scholars, pilots, medicae personnel, and others who might reasonably accompany a Mechanicus expedition into the unknown. Characters will be created using the Imperium Maledictum Core Rulebook and Adeptus Mechanicus expansion. This is a cooperative campaign. Characters should be willing to work with the group, participate in investigations, and engage with the expedition's goals. Lone wolves, disruptive characters, and concepts that would refuse to cooperate with the party are not a good fit for this game.

Preparing for the session

Before the game begins, please complete the following steps: • Join the campaign Discord server. This is where announcements, scheduling, handouts, character discussion, and between-session communication will take place. • Create a free Roll20 account. Character sheets, maps, handouts, and game resources will be hosted there. • Ensure you have a working microphone and a stable internet connection. A webcam is welcome but not required. • Review any campaign information provided before Session Zero. No prior knowledge of Imperium Maledictum or Warhammer 40,000 is required, though familiarity with the setting is always a bonus. • Come prepared to collaborate. This is a cooperative, story-focused campaign where character motivations, relationships, and player choices help shape the narrative. Character creation will take place during Session Zero or with me beforehand if needed. New players are absolutely welcome, and I am happy to help teach both the system and the setting.

What Ashley brings to the table

Players can expect a highly prepared, immersive, and character-focused experience. I believe the best campaigns are collaborative stories shaped by the choices, goals, and personalities of the characters rather than a predetermined script. I provide custom handouts, setting information, NPCs with their own motivations, and a living world that reacts to player decisions. Character backstories, relationships, ambitions, and personal storylines will be woven into the campaign whenever possible. Actions have consequences, victories matter, and discoveries can permanently change the direction of the story. My games emphasize roleplay, investigation, exploration, and meaningful decision-making. Combat is dangerous and important, but it is rarely the only solution to a problem. Players who enjoy uncovering mysteries, interacting with factions, and shaping the course of events through their choices will feel right at home. I use character voices and maps where appropriate, ambient music to support the atmosphere, and visual handouts to help bring the setting to life. While I strive to run the rules fairly and consistently, I value good storytelling and cinematic moments. If a creative idea fits the scene and enhances the experience, I am generally willing to work with players to make it happen. Most importantly, I aim to create a welcoming, respectful, and collaborative table where everyone has the opportunity to contribute to the story and enjoy their time in the grim darkness of the far future. Players can expect: * Ancient mysteries and forbidden discoveries * Exploration of forgotten worlds and lost ruins * Adeptus Mechanicus politics and faction intrigue * Meaningful character growth and long-term consequences * Memorable NPCs with their own goals and agendas * Difficult choices where knowledge can be as dangerous as ignorance * Deadly encounters, dangerous expeditions, and high stakes

How Ashley creates a safe table

Player safety and comfort are important parts of every game I run. Before the campaign begins, we will discuss expectations, themes, boundaries, and comfort levels during Session Zero. Players will have the opportunity to share any Lines, Veils, or topics they would prefer to avoid, and those boundaries will be respected throughout the campaign. I utilize the X, N, and O safety tools. These may be communicated verbally, through chat, private message, or by simply indicating them in whatever way is most comfortable for the player. No explanation is required. If a player signals that content should stop or change, we will immediately adjust and continue the game in a way that respects everyone's comfort. I also maintain an open-door policy. Players are always welcome to reach out before, during, or after a session if they have concerns, questions, or feedback. If a situation arises that affects a player's comfort or enjoyment, we will address it respectfully and collaboratively. At the end of sessions, I encourage discussion, questions, feedback, and check-ins. My goal is to create a welcoming environment where players feel comfortable engaging with challenging themes while knowing their personal boundaries will always be respected.