Neolithic Mage: Dark Eras | The Sundered World

Creating your character

Characters will be created before our first session with my help. We’ll use Mage: The Awakening 2e character creation alongside the changes and options from The Sundered World. You’ll play one of the Wise, the Awakened protectors of the People, with one character from each of the five Paths. I'm hoping to recruit one character from each of the five Mage Paths, with each connected to a different aspect of the setting. I will allow one Werewolf in place of a Thyrsus. Thyrsus — the Mystic: Studies spirits, explores the relationship between Flesh and Shadow, and seeks to understand the supernatural forces reshaping the world. Werewolf — the Hunter: Belongs to the culture of the Uratha, understands the obligations of the Hunt, and has personal stakes in the fate of Father Wolf. Moros — The Ocean Below: Death, ghosts, the Underworld, and what remains of forgotten ages. Mastigos — Dreams & the Astral: The human soul, dreams, and memories of a world that may never have existed. Acanthus — The Lost Time Before: Shattered history, Fate, prophecy, and the mysteries of Time. Obrimos — Gods & the Supernal: The nature of divinity, the Pangaeans, and humanity's relationship with higher powers. We’ll build characters together through Discord, and I’m happy to help both experienced Mage players and people completely new to the system. You do not need to know Mage lore or the Dark Era beforehand.

Preparing for the session

• Create a free Discord account and join the campaign Discord server. • Have a reliable internet connection and a quality microphone/headset for voice communication. • Create or have access to a Roll20 account. • Review any campaign primers, setting information, handouts, or character creation resources provided before Session 0. • Come to Session 0 with a rough character concept, even if it is only a starting idea. • Characters will be created together during Session 0 to establish connections, shared history, goals, and reasons for becoming involved in the investigation. • Most importantly, bring curiosity.

What Ashley brings to the table

My games are character-driven, roleplay-heavy, and focused on exploration and mystery. I like giving players problems rather than predetermined solutions—the choices you make, the people you trust, and the Mysteries you choose to pursue will shape where the chronicle goes. I use ambient music, maps, handouts, and visual references to help bring the world to life, along with distinct personalities and voices for important NPCs. Combat is meaningful and dangerous, but it isn't the focus of every session; entire sessions may pass through investigation, travel, social encounters, or character interaction without a fight. I generally follow the rules while favoring reasonable creative uses of abilities and magic. Mage especially rewards experimentation, so if you have an unusual idea, I want to figure out how the rules can make it work rather than look for a reason to say no. Above all, expect a slow-burn, long-form chronicle where your character's interests and decisions matter. The world contains mysteries with answers, but I don't expect you to follow a predetermined path to find them.

Homebrew rules

Starting character summary Character: Bonus starting XP Mage with Path mystery integrated: +3 XP Mage without Path mystery integrated: +0 XP Werewolf: +10 XP

How Ashley creates a safe table

Player safety and comfort are important parts of every campaign I run. Before play begins, Session 0 will include discussion of campaign themes, expectations, table culture, character concepts, Lines and Veils, and any topics players would prefer to avoid or handle off-screen. A Lines and Veils document will be provided and can be updated throughout the campaign as needed. I use an open-door policy and encourage players to communicate concerns publicly or privately at any time. No explanation is required to use a safety tool or request a scene change. Players may communicate concerns through Discord, direct message, or during play. X, N, and O safety tools may be used verbally, through chat, or through private messages. If a player indicates discomfort, we will pause, adjust, skip, or redirect the scene as appropriate. My goal is not to shock or upset players. My goal is to create an atmosphere of discovery, adventure, mystery, tension, and horror while ensuring everyone feels respected, comfortable, and excited to participate in the story. After difficult or emotionally intense scenes, I make space for questions, feedback, and check-ins to ensure players leave the session feeling comfortable and supported.