Welcome to Aesun - (roll for) Initiative!

Creating your character

Character creation can be done ahead of time on D&D Beyond OR during session zero. Abilities determined by Standard Array or Manual/Rolled. Species: no limitations on D&D Beyond. Entire Party must choose the side of Good or Evil (flexibility with Chaotic / Lawful / Neutral). Neutral is okay, but side must be chosen. Starting level: 1 or 2 (note: it may be advantageous to be level 1 since you cannot perish / die at level 1...special GM rule). GMs will be using books from 2024 rule set Discord and working microphone will be required Roll20, FoundryVTT, D&D Beyond (and perhaps others) highly recommended, but not required. Other platforms may be introduced since we believe all platforms should be at least 'explored', if not used. We are always on the lookout for the best products out there.

Preparing for the session

Discord is required. Characters need to be created on D&D Beyond. We will be using Roll20 and FoundryVTT features to enhance the adventure - therefore they are highly recommended. Please join the Discord server before Session 0: https://discord.gg/T3xDGADhC As we discover, new and cool stuff, we will be researching and implementing.

What Zachary Kang brings to the table

This campaign is guided by two Game Masters working as a team, creating a fast-paced and immersive experience that blends epic storytelling with dynamic gameplay. GM #1 serves as the play-by-play commentator and lead storyteller. They control the pacing of the adventure, narrate the world around you, manage combat encounters, and describe the action as it unfolds. Think of them as the voice that brings the world of Aesun to life. GM #2 serves as the color commentator and world coordinator. They manage the technical side of the game, oversee NPC actions and conversations, operate game platforms and resources, and help keep the world moving behind the scenes. They also add depth, context, and flavor to the adventure as events unfold. Together, both GMs work closely to create a seamless experience. While players will see and hear both GMs during sessions, they will also coordinate behind the scenes to ensure the story, encounters, and world continue to evolve in meaningful and exciting ways. While the rules provide the foundation for gameplay, this campaign strongly embraces the Rule of Cool. Creative ideas, cinematic moments, heroic risks, and memorable storytelling will often take precedence over strict interpretations of rules as written. If you have an idea that sounds awesome, dramatic, hilarious, or legendary, there is a good chance the GMs will find a way to make it work. Expect Combat. The World of Aesun—and especially the continent of Firsun—is locked in the midst of a brutal and bloody conflict between the forces of Good and Evil. War touches nearly every corner of the land. As a result, players should expect frequent combat encounters ranging from skirmishes and monster hunts to sieges, large-scale battles, desperate defenses, and dangerous expeditions into enemy territory. Survival will often depend upon teamwork, preparation, and knowing when to stand and fight. Aesun is a world overflowing with magic, mystery, and ancient power. Adventurers frequently seek out legendary locations known as Nexuses of Power—highly magical sites coveted by both sides of the Eternal War. These places are capable of granting incredible rewards, revealing forgotten secrets, and altering the course of history. They are also notoriously unpredictable. Exposure to powerful magical forces may leave lasting marks on both the world and the heroes who dare to explore them. Characters may find themselves changed in ways both wondrous and unexpected. This is not a linear campaign. Players are free to follow plot hooks, pursue personal goals, explore rumors, investigate mysteries, or simply head in a completely different direction than expected. The world will react accordingly. The GMs will provide opportunities, guidance, and adventure, but the decisions ultimately belong to the party. Every choice has consequences, and every path leads to new possibilities. There are wonders to discover, fortunes to claim, monsters to slay, villains to thwart. Let's go!

Homebrew rules

There are several homebrew rules that make Welcome to Aesun different: 1) Natural 20 rule allows character to choose between coup-de-grace (double weapon damage roll) OR precision strike (max damage possible - no dice roll)...enemies will pursue the precision strike unless they possess high intelligence. 2) Natural 1 (critical miss) rule has added percentile roll to determine how massive the screw-up is 3) Special 'Leomund's' Death Rule applies to characters who fall below zero hit points. Potential for scars or even mutilations possible ...1st level characters cannot die no matter how hard they are hit, the damage floor is zero hit points, however all bets are off at level 2 and beyond. 4) There are many, many things that are found that are unique to this world of Aesun...treasures, monster types, etc 5) D&D 5e Monster Manual, Player's Handbook and DM Guide are used. The GMs treat these manuals as guides with Rule of Cool in mind. 6) Potion drinking can be discussed as a bonus action (or not), however your enemies will get the same luxury (or not)

How Zachary Kang creates a safe table

Free Session 0 to go over all setup, special rules and safety parameters