Gilded Age Boston - The Reign of the Exarchs

Creating your character

Characters are not part of the Diamond Order but may have left them. Characters have the Mystery Cult Initiate merit at 1 instead of Order Status. Newly Awakened Characters do not receive the free dot in Occult or High Speech. Rote Specs: Crafts, Persuasion, Academics Character creation begins before Session 1 and is a collaborative process between the player and Storyteller. I enjoy working closely with players to create characters who feel connected to the world. Backstories, ambitions, relationships, secrets, flaws, and personal goals often become important parts of the campaign. Rather than treating a character's history as something written once and forgotten, I regularly incorporate those elements into the ongoing narrative. The process doesn't end once the campaign begins. Character growth, personal story arcs, evolving relationships, and difficult choices are all important parts of the chronicle. The world will react to your actions, and your character's goals and decisions will help shape the story. This chronicle is best suited for players who enjoy roleplay, character development, mysteries, and collaborative storytelling. While combat certainly occurs, the focus is not on tactical encounters alone. Players interested in uncovering secrets, pursuing ambitions, building relationships, and exploring the consequences of power will get the most from the experience.

Preparing for the session

Before Session 1, players should: Create a free Discord account. Create a free Roll20 account. Join the campaign Discord server. Have a reliable internet connection and a quality microphone/headset. Read the campaign setting document and any introductory materials provided. Meet with the DM on Discord to discuss the game. Develop a loose character concept or three and be prepared to discuss their goals, ambitions, relationships, and connection to the setting. Meet for Session 0, if it has not already happened. Work with the DM to complete your concept, sheet and backstory. Character creation is a collaborative process, and I am happy to help refine concepts, answer questions about the setting, and ensure characters feel connected to both the world and the story. This campaign is heavily focused on roleplay, mystery, personal character arcs, and collaborative storytelling. Players will get the most out of the experience if they arrive ready to engage with the setting, pursue their own goals, and help create memorable stories together.

What Ashley brings to the table

I run character-driven campaigns where player choices matter and have lasting consequences. While mysteries, conspiracies, and ancient secrets may drive the plot, the story ultimately revolves around the characters, their relationships, ambitions, beliefs, and the decisions they make when confronted with difficult choices. Players can expect: * Deep integration of character backstories into the ongoing narrative. * A living world that reacts to player actions and evolves over time. * Meaningful investigations where clues lead to new discoveries rather than dead ends. * Distinct factions, allies, rivals, and enemies with their own motivations and agendas. * Long-term character growth and opportunities to shape the future of the setting. My games emphasize immersion, roleplay, and collaborative storytelling. I enjoy creating memorable NPCs, character voices, and dramatic scenes, though I focus more on portraying believable personalities than performing elaborate accents. Ambient music and visual handouts are frequently used to help establish atmosphere and reinforce important moments. While combat can occur, Mage is fundamentally a game about knowledge, politics, relationships, and difficult decisions. Many challenges can be overcome through investigation, negotiation, planning, or clever use of magic. When conflict does arise, I strive to make it meaningful rather than simply filling time between story beats. Rules are important because they create a shared understanding of the world, but I prioritize maintaining the flow of the game and supporting exciting, dramatic moments. If a rules question would significantly slow play, I will make a fair ruling and revisit the exact rule after the session if necessary. Above all, I aim to create a welcoming, respectful table where every player has opportunities to contribute, develop their character, and help shape the story we create together.

Homebrew rules

Yantras cap at +5 Declare in this order: Spell, Reach, Yantras, Dice Pool Only one Research roll per scene Legacy entry requirements are flexible If a player has relevant specializations and skills, they get clue automatically. Rolls determine depth, content and detail. Order Status Matter. Mystery Cult status opens different doors.

How Ashley creates a safe table

Player comfort is important to me, especially in a campaign that explores horror, mystery, madness, and other potentially sensitive themes. Before the campaign begins, players will have the opportunity to establish Lines and Veils, which will be shared with the group and respected throughout the campaign. This document is considered a living resource and may be updated at any time. During Session 0, we will discuss campaign expectations, table etiquette, character concepts, themes, boundaries, and any content players would prefer to avoid. I also use the X Card. Players may use it at any time, either verbally or through Discord chat, to indicate that content should be skipped, changed, or removed. No explanation is required, and player comfort always takes priority. Finally, I encourage open communication. If a player ever has concerns about content, another player, or the direction of the game, I am always available before or after sessions to discuss it privately.