#expedition to the barrier peaks

[oldschoolfrp]

Paladin vs deadly alien grass (Jim Roslof, AD&D module S3: Expedition to the Barrier Peaks by Gary Gygax, TSR, 1980)

[vintagerpg]

The best of the first wave of TSR-produced D&D modules? Certainly the quirkiest! This week on the Vintage RPG Podcast, we check out S3: Expedition to the Barrier Peaks. It’s the one with the crashed spaceship full of aliens that, wouldn’t you know it, look and act like classic D&D monsters! Even though this was published in 1980, it actually saw play as early as the summer of 1976 at conventions, so as outside the norm as Barrier Peaks may seem, it also shows how early silliness had come to be core to the D&D experience. We dig into that, scratch at the complex legacy of Gary Gygax and even talk a little bit about the spooky stuff that happened down by the railroad tracks when we were kids. Check it out!

[affableanthropologist]

WIP of some one-shot characters from today.

On the left we have: Rouge Angle Valour, a young tiefling man who misspelled his Cool Adventurer Name (he is known as Jason "Jay" Valour to family and close friends.)

On the right we have: Rouge's older brother James "Jimmy" Valor. Jimmy is a bard who plays the kazoo, and has two broken horns thanks to shenanigans.

Thanks to different shenanigans, Rouge is now about a foot and a half taller than his brother (standing at 7'6"), but I wasn't going to draw that height difference.

And yes, they spell their surnames differently.

[whatdoiknowjr]

What Do I Know About Reviews? Quests from the Infinite Staircase, Conclusion (Appendix A, B)

It's time to bring this review of Quests from the Infinite Staircase to a close, as we look at gear and creatures, and then bring it all together for the whole anthology. #DnD5e 5eSRD

We’re finally going to bring this review home, before any more catastrophic events happen to distract me. I hope life doesn’t get this exciting the next time I do a multi-part review. In case you’re reading this in the future, since I got access to this book, we’ve an attempted assassination on a presidential candidate, a massive web services failure, and a standing president step down for…

[genyawritesshizz]

A Hum of Time. Toshinori Yagi x Reader

Part 6

-Technically 5.5, shorter chapter

Summary: An innocent relationship between two workaholics could not possibly be that eventful. Just two individuals finding comfort within each other's company and the occasional cup of coffee. What happens when a secret that could ruin both of their careers brings the whole thing crashing down? In a heart wrenching decision, you must do what is best for all three of you and brave the future alone. Will you ever tell the truth? You might not have a choice. Amidst the fallout an opportunity arises, one that could perhaps benefit them all. A coup to send All Might into retirement once and for all flourishes amidst unsuspected old friends.

Part 1 Part 2 Part 3 Part 4 Part 5

If you want to check this out on AO3 lemme know, ill drop the link in the comments

3272: word count

With a deep sigh, Toshinori could remain silent no longer. Waiting for Chiyo to step out, for he knew the older woman would forbid him from transforming after such exertion, his guilt prevailed through stain.

 As the hours ticked by and the sun long casted down behind the hill at which the school rests atop, the moment of opportunity presented itself as she ventured into the hallways. Glancing to his prodigies bedside wary of objections, the young man slept soundly. With a puff of smoke and fatigued muscles straining All Might emerged. 

Approaching tightly drawn walls with a deep sigh, a labored stretch of his smile and clearing his throat as to announce his presence he prepared to face the emotionally vulnerable mother beyond. 

However, the moment thin fabric slid within his grasp his mind felt fuzzy.

“Sleep” 

Catching a peek through pulled barriers as his mind hazed, though the two figures within blurred the faint sight made his heart drop…

‘(Y/N)?’

Ending credits rolled and a quieted theme song jingled throughout the silenced room. Wrapped snugly within each other's embrace, sleep tugged at the edges of tired bodies. It had been months since time had allowed such a night, savoring every second spent together neither wished to depart.

“We should go to bed my love, it's getting late.” 

“You go ahead, I’ve got a couple emails I should check up on be-” 

“It can wait. Please Toshi.” Grabbing his hand and pulling him away from the couch he could not refuse.

 Led to your shared bedroom you sat him atop cooled sheets. 

Though dark, the seldom moonlight allowed gazes to meet, seemingly glowing cerulean swam with admiration looking up to the woman before him. Cherished and dear to his heart, he would never grow tired of such a sight. 

‘Beautiful’

A gentle thumb slid over the hollow of thinned cheekbones and down to his jawline. Wandering further, to massage the tense muscles of his neck and dip under the neckline of his shirt to brush over protruding bones of his vertebrae. A sensual shiver of ecstasy ran through Toshinori with each swipe of warm fingertips and an almost silent sigh had his head lulling back. A now familiar yearn grew hot within tightening trousers. His palms outstretched, holding your hips within their wide grasp, fingers squeezing into the supple flesh of your behind.  Lowering over the loose fabric of his collared shirt, you carefully undo each button as they pass. The wide expanse of his chest presented itself, mindful of his scar, your expedition continued. 

Both sets of hands grew hungry, though unrushed, as clothes drifted off, discarded to the floor for further exploration. Basking in the soft touches of the other, the need to be closer pulled you in.

Climbing on top, within the cover of darkness, without worry of work, without the weight of the world, love bloomed and bursted between them. Bodies conjoined, moving in sync, hushed praises arose as pleasure flared. Whispers of ‘I love you’s’ flew between moans of rapture. It had been far too long since they’d been allowed such a time together. 

As his peak reached deep within you the two collapsed. Rushed breaths mingled, heart rates thumping and arms never untangling. Resting within your shared bed, contentment settled. With eyes closed his arms tightened, pulling you closer.

“That was-” 

“The last time.” Thin eyebrows scrunched, your tone sounded distant. Catching his breath he hummed, confused by your statement. 

“What do you mean?” Finally opening his eyes to look down at the woman within his arms he's met with nothing but balled up knots of blankets. The euphoria evaporated within an instant. “(Y/n)?”

“ALL MIGHT!”

Bolting up from the bed, nude, he ran through the house. Tearing each door open in haste, howling your name till his throat ran raw. Your yells became animalistic, echoing off each emptied room, tauntingly calling his name.

“All Might Please! Save Me!”

“I’m trying! Where are you?!” Padding into the living room he collapsed, inches away, yet just out of his grasp your body laid. Hero suit torn, your once loved form battered, bloodied, and lifeless…  

“I’m sorry, I’m so sorry. Please…”

“Hey All Might!”

“Are you awake?”

“All Might?”

Back inside the far too small cot of the infirmary Yagi’s head swam, dazed, confused. Haunted by dreams of the past. 

“All Might? Are you.. Crying?”

Snapping back into reality, a trembling hand swiped across gloom stricken features. Wetness gathering against thinned palms, mind struggling to find solid ground, and breaths puffed in rapid succession.

“Are you okay?” 

‘What happened?’

Looking over to the once drawn curtains he’s met with a now emptied infirmary. The bed that once held his other student now striped and barren.

“Where did young Akeno and his mother go?”

“Oh, Recovery Girl sent them home a couple hours ago. She said we were also free to leave, but I didn’t want to wake you up. It looked like you were having a nice dream until… Are you okay? It looked like you-”

“I’m fine Midoriya. Nothing to worry about” 

‘It was a dream…But I…’ Sighing as he shoved the memories back from whence they came and turned to his student.

“Let's go home.”

‘It was only a dream.’

Healed over the weekend class resumed anew Monday morning. Though with the looming shock of the attack still fresh on their minds, the students of class 1A buzzed with exhilaration.

“You guys, did you watch the news last night!”

“We’re totally big deals! Those news channels love us were basically celebrities!” 

Amongst the chatter of premiering on television and All Might’s victory Midoriya’s mind swam with questions that had been burning to escape after his recent discovery. Finally spotting his blond haired classmate as he entered, he struggled to withhold his onslaught. The image he had uncovered seared into his mind. As much as he wanted to simply blurt it out, he knew such an important topic must be eased into. Instead opting for a more friendly approach, he greeted his classmate.

“Hey Akeno! How are you feeling?” Cerulean met Emerald and with a smile as Akeno took his seat, smiling wide as ever.

‘That smile.’

“Not back to one hundred percent yet, but I'm getting there!” His deepening voice still sounded scratchy, his throat raw and aching yet miles beyond the infirmary.

“I’m happy to hear that! Hey, so theres something I wanted to ask-”

“Attention homeroom, class is about to begin. Everyone, stop talking and take your seats!” Entering at top speed Iida stood before the podium, silencing the question. 

“We can talk during lunch.” With a shaky grin Midoriya agreed, though his questions boiled, just below the surface, threatening to overflow.

“Morning class.” Muffled through layers of bandages Mr. Aizawa stood within the doorway, much to everyone's shock. As chatter picked up regarding his well being, it was quickly squandered by their teachers' unwavering stoicism. “What’s more important is your fight isn't over yet. The UA sports festival is about to start.”

Overflowing with excitement the teens all congregated on their shared aspiration for their upcoming performances. The questions brewing were almost forgotten within his own enthusiasm, yet as the bell rang for lunch his bustling curiosity repopulated.

“You guys go on ahead, we’ll meet you there!” Dismissing Uraraka and Iida the hallways cleared around the two aspiring heroes.

“Midoriya, you said you had something you wanted to ask me?”

Now alone standing before his friend, the boy fidgeted with the strap of his backpack, unable to maintain eye contact. Though he was curious, a part of him knew this was a touchy subject. One that could potentially change his classmates' life.

“Hey, is everything okay? You look really nervous. You know you can talk to me right?” His blatantly nerve stricken friend seemingly shrunk beneath him, trembling within his presence, and unable to meet his gaze. “If this is about the villain's attack? Don't worry about it! You did everything you could!”

“No…it’s not that.” Steadying his breaths and gathering himself, Izuku attempted to relax his tense body. If he was going to ask the one profound question that had been weighing him down, he must first present and validate his evidence behind it.

“You said your mom used to be a hero right?” 

“Uh yeah, she used to be a sidekick.” 

“And you said that she was hurt when you were younger, in America?”

“Yeah?” Worried confusion grew within Akeno, now it was he who shrunk beneath the other. 

“How… how old were you when that happened?”

“Around four. Izuku, why are you asking me all this?” Fretted lines drew between furrowed brows and down turned lips. Each question sent the young man further into perplexity. “What does my mom have to do with anything?” 

Slinging his backpack around and fishing within a pocket, Izuku withdrew his phone.

“That’s just the thing…” Finally, emerald met cerulean. Both gazes ardent, swimming with steeled perception. “given what you said about her being a hero in the past-”

“She was just a sidekick!” 

“Even so, she used to be a hero here. Tracing back the history of female heroes that worked in Japan over the last thirty years with vocal quirks, filter out how many transferred to America in the last twenty and those who quit within the last decade… I-I found nothing b-”

“Then what was all this for!” 

“Wait! I’m not done!” Sighing, Akeno nodded, annoyed at the suspended anticipation gnawing at his twisted stomach. “I could not find any heroes matching that description…alive. But I did find one that had passed and-”

“Izuku, my mother is alive! You saw her yourself. She was just here last week.” 

“It’s just that… back when we were all in the infirmary and your mom came to visit, I think I recognized her.” Quivering fingers tapped at the now alighted screen, scrolling further into its archive. 

“You recognized her? That's impossible, mom hasn’t been back in Japan in years.” 

The world fell silent.

Revealed from a turned phone screen, a single photo sent Akeno’s world crumbling. 

“It’s hard to tell since she’s wearing a mask, but doesn’t she look a lot like this hero? Her name was S- 

“No.” 

“B-“

“No. That is not my mother Izuku. I don’t know what you think you’re onto but it’s not true.”

“But I-Wait, where are you going?” Thunderous footsteps blazed past the baffled boy, heading down the hallway to hopefully catch the last minutes of lunch. Refraining from following, Izuku feared he had made his friend uncomfortable. All he wanted to know was if it was possible. Perhaps his assumptions were wrong after all.

‘It can’t be true. That picture has to be fake. It has to be.’

Silenced for the remainder of the day, Akeno’s mind drowned within its thoughts. 

Far too scared to approach for fear of worsening the situation, Izuku allowed his classmate space. 

The final bell rang, signaling the end of the day. As students flooded the hallways ready to be home Izuku was once again pulled aside by his mentor. Exchanging pleasantries and pouring two cups of tea, Toshinori sat rigid before his pupil. Shaking hands curled into the excess fabric of his suit as words struggled to form.

“Young Midoriya, there’s something I must ask of you. Though I hope you don’t find it too weird.” 

“Of course All Might, what is it?” The boy's demeanor starkly contrasted the older man's gloom; his apprentice's charisma almost made him cringe. 

“I-I’ve been meaning to ask,” Sucking in air through gritted teeth he almost recanted his curiosity though burning desire for the truth propelled the notion. “What do you know about Akeno’s mother?”

Emerald hues widened.

“Actually that's something I wanted to talk to you about as well. Did you happen to see her while in the infirmary?” 

“No, I… I didn’t.” A sense of confusion clouded over once sharpened instincts.

‘I could’ve sworn I was going to try and talk to her…But then I… Fell asleep?’  

“I know you spoke to her, who was she? Have you seen her before?”  

“That’s the thing, she looked vaguely familiar to me. I thought I figured out where I’d seen her before but when I tried to talk to Akeno about it, he didn’t agree. Now looking back at it, I don't think my assumption was right either, it’s too far-fetched.” 

“What was your assumption?”

“It…It was nothing, I really don’t think it could be who I originally thought. It wouldn’t make sense.” Refraining from showing his mentor the photo or divulging in his theory after reading more about Siren and her untimely demise, If he was wrong about this theory then telling All Might could upset him, especially if they were close.

“But, Akeno has told me a lot about her so maybe you could figure it out?” 

Besides, surely if All Might actually knew this hero and if all the information he was about to give matched, he would tell him. Right? 

“What has he said?”

Recalling every scrap of information to his mentor, Toshinori's thin brows drew together, thick wrinkled lines of contemplation forming the further he recalled. 

“Does that remind you of anyone?”

“I… I don’t think so, sorry.” In reality the inner workings of Yagi’s mind went into overdrive, cogs grinding and turning with recollection. 

‘It can’t be. Rationalize. It’s surely all just a coincidence… All a coincidence…It has to be. She’s…she’s dead…’

His feeble attempts to sooth his rampaging mind were not boding well, buckling with each new piece of information. Pushing them back was becoming overpowering.

Sighing in defeat Izuku came to the conclusion that his theory had in fact been incorrect, a simple fairytale that his fanboy mind had concocted. 

‘It was just a theory.’

“Don’t worry about it, whoever she is, if it’s important I'm sure we’ll figure it out. Besides, you should be focusing on the sports festival!” Redirecting his pupils' attention as a way to forfeit his mind's own psychosis and dissipate the defeated look upon Midoriya’s face he pushed them back to the matter at hand. 

“That kid could be your clone ya know.” Midnight laughed, the two sat alone within the teachers lounge, wrapping up the day's paperwork. Typically Midnight would talk about her day or problems while Toshinori only nodded, occasionally adding very little to the conversation. However today's topic of discussion had landed on the sports festival and their predictions on how it would go. Going down the roster of both 1A and 1B this one off comment seized his full attention. 

The thoughts that had been plaguing him over the mystery that was Akeno and his origins resurfaced. It had been less than three weeks since his chat with Midoriya, ever since his mind had been spinning its wheels, desperate to find traction.

“Yeah no kidding, kid looks just like me” He attempted to play the comment off with a chuckle, however it struggled to come off genuine, the light quiver in his tone gave away his unease. In an effort to sooth rattled nerves a hand rubbed at the back of his sweat slicked neck. 

“All Might!?” Midnight’s voice had raised in pitch, both eyebrows up in suspicion under her mask. “Do you have a secret child?” She practically yelled this question, voice high in excitement. Steam could’ve piped out of his ears and a thick haggard cough of blood spurted from his mouth at her brazenness.

“NO! Not that I know of.” His hands flew up in defense.

“That you know of?! So it’s possible!” She laughed “How promiscuous of you Toshinori.”

“Nemuri please, there is no way that kid could be mine. I haven’t…” He trailed off thinking back to the last he’d been active. It was with you. After all these years he had not found it within himself to seek out a new lover. Not that it was not offered to him, as All Might women practically threw themselves at him. He simply had no desire to, no want for sexual or romantic intimacy with anyone ever again. Sure there were nights when he felt lonely and craved affection but the mere thought of receiving it from anyone else made his skin crawl. Besides, he had learned from you that bringing anyone into his life, his personal life, was dangerous. For both himself and them.

“It’s been…awhile”

“ Common All Might,  it can’t be that long. You’re a bit older but you’ve still got game! Tell me how long. I have to know now!”

He pondered her question. Then counted back the years in his head, sixteen… 

‘Wait, how old is this kid? He’s in young Midoriya’s class so he must be’ 

OH.

He coughed, his mind ablaze with thoughts. A splatter of blood coated his hand, gasping for air, violent hacks surged through him. The seductive hero passed him a cup of water, with a few forced sips the fit subsided. 

“Twenty” he lied through his teeth, revealing too much could lead her to the same conclusion. Midnight’s mouth hung open her eyes wide.

“TWENTY? What a travesty! Absolutely appalling! How can you go on without the touch of another?” 

“Look, I'm not too comfortable discussing this. Can we please pick another topic?” Toshinori felt as if his whole world was spinning upside down. The train of thought he had tried so desperately to derail steamed down the tracks, now full speed ahead, barreling into a brick wall of realization.

The kid matched the age gap.

He was the spitting image of him.

He had your exact same quirk.

Given all the information Midoriya had told him earlier he was born in America, however his mother was originally from Japan.

‘That's where you moved after the break up.’

The boy's whole reason for being a hero was in his mothers honor who was attacked by a villain when he was young. 

‘Deducting the years from the time you were ‘killed’ would put him around 3-4, far too young to remember crucial details yet aware of the situation.’

Too many ‘coincidences’. Too many dots connected. Yet the one gaping hole in this whole theory revolved around one central point; 

‘His mother is alive, you are not.’ So he thought. 

He needed answers. 

Now.

Sneaking into the gyms locker room to most would be seen as nothing short of creepy and perverse, yet driven by the need for mediation All Might proceeded. Scrounging through every cubby until finally reaching the quarry. Unsurprisingly, as most teenage boys did, Akeno had not washed his pullover after their last training exercise. Pillaging the uniform he examined it carefully until his target was acquired, a singular piece of golden hair pinched between his finger tips. 

“Tsukauchi, I have a favor to ask. It's urgent.”

Two strands of blonde hair sealed safely into ziplock bags were handed off to the detective. 

As the hours ticked by awaiting results Yagi’s mind spiraled further, the facts at hand repeating themselves forwards and back until the jingle of his phone broke the cycle.

“Yagi, I have the results for the samples you gave me. It wasn’t easy convincing the lab to run it without prior authorization and on such short notice but since it’s for you, we managed to pull a few strings.” Toshinori’s heartbeat thundered into his ear, threatening to overshadow the man's words. 

“It’s a 50% match. They’re either parent and child or siblings.” 

‘Parent and child.’

“Yagi? You there-”

Hanging up, there was only one person he wanted to speak to right now. 

“David. Tell me the truth.” 

[silvercompassmaps]

A commissioned map I made for Ruins of Ordane, a 5e adventure where you explore a ruined city of an advanced civilization that met its doom: with a touch of Barrier Peaks meets Call of Cthulhu.

The Ruins of Ordane is an OSR and 5E one-shot (or sandbox) for characters of levels 6-10. Elements of the adventure hearken back to Expedition to the Barrier Peaks and Call of Cthulhu, but injected with a bit of weird and whimsy, ala Jack Vance.

This 28+ page adventure will include:

- 13+ encounter locations within and below the ancient, ruined city of Ordane.

- 5+ brand-new monsters, including the elder sentry and primal shoggoth.

- 9+ new magical items, including the death orb and urn of Katir.

- Numerous Charts and Tables, to help ensure the party has an opportunity to unearth useful information, including:

- 8+ Random Encounters while exploring the city

- 5+ Ordanian Artifacts to discover, including the inferno blaster and hypnosis cube!

Check out the Kickstarter here. Only one day left to back!

[ilykaveh]

butterflies ღ 彡 !

★ — albedo wants to watch you play with yourself for a bit.

★ — contains : f reader / mutual touching / praise / 0.5k words .

minors do not interact.

date nights with albedo were a rarity, both due to his busy work and expeditions up the mountain and you with your own commitments. the pair of you cherished the time you got to spend together, be it often sparse. these times could often grow a little hot and heavy, the exchanges of longing touches communicating the mutual desperation for more.

as soon as you bounded through the threshold of his apartment in the city, you made your way to his bedroom. teeth clashed as the alchemist devoured your lips, hunger burning as bright as the stars in his eyes. he guided you towards his bed, letting you fall into the plush material of his comforter.

neither of you wanted to waste minutes in each other’s presence, opting to shed your respective clothes instead of waiting for the other to take action. you were left in your panties, distracted by albedo’s stiff cock already leaking beads of precum.

"i’ve missed you,” he mumbled, groaning as he pumped his length a few times. you remained enthralled by the angel before you, broken from your trance only by a low moan of your name.

you needed something, anything, in the moment. settling for playing with your own tits you began groping the pretty flesh as your nipples hardened under your touch. a breathy little “‘bedo,” fell from your lips, closing your eyes for a moment, the same way that they did when you imagined your hands were his own during those long nights apart.

“touch yourself for me.” albedo commanded, initially catching you off guard. your reluctance spurred further orders from the man; his words never harsh but rather with the intent of encouraging you to fuck yourself for him. “spread your legs wider, my darling. you’re so pretty, aren’t you?”

you parted your thighs a little more, eyes remaining focused on albedo. one of his hands languidly pumped his cock, watching as you responded to him. you wanted to slip a hand beneath the waistband of your panties, though your desire to obey your boyfriend’s every word outweighed it.

“stroke yourself, sweetheart. over your panties, that’s it. you’re doing so well for me already,”

a little wet patch was already forming on your underwear, slick pooling underneath the lacy barrier that hid your cunt from sight. light whimpers filled the air, albedo enthralled with how needy you already were.

“just a bit longer; keep teasing yourself.” he spoke as you struggled to keep your attention on him.

whines developed into pleas as you continued feather-like touches across your panties. you could feel your sweet cunt ache, begging for more as you awaited further instructions.

“that’s my pretty girl, why don’t you take them off for me, hmm? you deserve it, baby.”

albedo’s melodic groans were interrupted as he swiped over a prominent vein on the underside of his cock, whispering curses under his breath. if the man lacked any self control he would already be nearing his peak, though he wished to wait until you were at your own.

“show me how you play with yourself while i’m away, sweetheart, and maybe then i’ll let you cum.”

[sam-seer]

Hey, you! Here are 12 old school dungeon ideas inspired by Expedition to the Barrier Peaks, an old-school adventure published in 1980.

[thoughtportal]

All of us live embedded in webs of life known as ecosystems, and that can get pretty creepy — or astonishingly beautiful. Inspired by the mind-blowing new animated series Scavengers Reign, we’re talking about some of the best examples of alien ecosystems in science fiction. Then we dive into some real-life ecosystems on Earth, and reveal two important ways that scientists study environmental changes. Along the way, you’ll find out why algae is literally sucking the life out of coastal ecosystems. Plus, shouldn’t salt marsh grass have rights?

{listen}

Notes, citations, etc.

Scavengers Reign

Expedition to the Barrier Peaks, Dungeons & Dragons module by Gary Gygax

Dry Land, by B. Pladek

A Half-Built Garden, by Ruthanna Emrys

The Daughter of Doctor Moreau, bySylvia Moreno-Garcia

Origins of the term “ecosystem”

The International Biological Program

Sippewissett Marsh

Research on the likely disappearance of Sippewissett and other saltwater marshes

Javier Lloret, who studies food webs at the Marine Biological Lab

Anne Giblin, who studies environmental chemistry at the Marine Biological Lab

Waquoit Bay

Learn more about algae blooms in Waquoit Bay leading to oxygen depletion in the water, via Christopher Flavelle’s reporting in the New York Times

[oldschoolfrp]

Vegepygmies with their dog-creature, or "thorny" (Erol Otus, AD&D module S3: Expedition to the Barrier Peaks, TSR, 1980)

[this-is-a-sideblog]

I mean, if there are any grell in the Goodman version, then there are more grell than in the original, because the original had zero grell.  (The original Expedition to the Barrier Peaks came out the year before the Fiend Folio where the grell debuted.)

Goodman Games’ Original Adventures Reincarnated version of Expedition to the Barrier Peaks (2019) feels like the one they wanted to do from the start, but which also didn’t make sense as the first volume (as much as I am ambivalent of Borderlands, it is the right starting point, I think, and Isle of Dread the natural follow-up). Barrier Peaks though has that over-the-top vibe that has become Goodman’s bread and butter; I’m glad we got this before, say, Tomb of Horrors or the Giants modules (honestly, I don’t know if we need either of those).

The 5E conversion is arranged around the central promise of more, more, more. There is, well, just more of everything, more areas to explore, more handouts, more monsters (I feel like there are more grell in this than the original, and there are definitely more weird mutant versions of well-known monsters), more ways to die horribly, more fantastic art. The price of admission is worth it for Peter Mullen’s imperious otyughs alone, 100% serious. Thanks to Goodman’s experience with D&D, DCC, Metamorphosis Alpha and MCC, the expansion material feels both natural and extremely fresh.

I enjoy the little ways real world technology and several decades of sci-fi inform the adventure in small ways. The best and clearest example is Appendix A: Against the Venomous Warlord, a short adventure within the adventure, introduced via the ship’s virtual reality interface. I do miss the Gamma World-style flow charts for figuring out how to use alien tech, though.

If you’re going to buy just one OAR publication, this one is a good bet.

[vixensdungeon]

I have some thoughts about the idea of D&D as the game that can do everything. It's not, but let's go into it a bit deeper.

First of all, if you're arguing with someone about this, make sure they're not actually arguing for "D&D is a game where you can do anything," because that's a different thing. That's a comparison to board and video games that restrict player agency more. It applies to pretty much any tabletop roleplaying game, but maybe the person you're talking to just plays D&D and that's okay.

Now, D&D as a game that can do everything. That's very much not the case, though the basic task resolution system could certainly be used for all sorts of genres! And there's also a long and storied history of genre mixing with D&D, like how Tenser got sent to Barsoom that one time, or Expedition to Barrier Peaks. So even within its own genre there's traditionally some leeway.

But let's get back to it being a game where you can do anything. Because there's also a tradition of not being constrained by the game that goes back to the original Braunstein game Dave Arneson played in. David Wesely didn't have rules for duels because he didn't plan on that being part of the game, but then some of his players wanted to do a duel so he had to come up with dueling rules. And that's really at the root of things, isn't it?

D&D has never had mechanical structures meant for running electoral campaigns, but if one of the players wants to run for mayor of Clearbrook, are you gonna say no to that? Well you might, but the Old Masters didn't, because D&D was and for the most part still is about doing stuff, not doing things. It doesn't have moves for the things you do in the game, it has rules for resolving whatever stuff the players decide to do in the milieu. And when it doesn't, you make new ones up!

So when people kitbash their D&D campaigns into different genres, or focus on stuff other than dungeon challenges, cut them some slack. Because this game's almost 50 years old now and its tradtions run deep.

One thing I still don't think D&D needs to or should have is narrative arcs, though. Much like a player can decide to run for mayor of Clearbrook against what the DM had planned, a goblin can decide to stab your character in the butt and end your character's epic storyline.

[oddseekers]

Adventure S3 - Expedition to the Barrier Peaks Art: David S. LaForce

[whatdoiknowjr]

What Do I Know About Reviews? Quests from the Inifinite Staircase, Part One (Introduction, Chapter 1)

I've got access to Quests From the Infinite Staircase, so let's start diving in, shall we. Today I'm looking at the intro and chapter one, the framing device that leads into the reworked previous edition adventures. #DnD5e

Back when I was doing my review of Vecna: Eve of Ruin, I wasn’t sure if I would still be doing these reviews for official WotC material, because I like having a little bit of time before the release date to post them. Once we hit street day, everything gets flooded with reviews, promotions, and first looks, so it becomes a little redundant to try to post meaningful D&D content.It turns out, WotC…

[dndhistory]

93. Gary Gygax - S3: Expedition to the Barrier Peaks (1980)

As was the case of many of the modules published in early 1980, this was also an adaptation of a competition module, first played in 1976 at Origins II. This was often the case with these one location modules which were manageable in one or two play sessions. 

If none of this is new, the module does innovate in a particular way which would make it an immensely memorable experience up until today. Your party of characters is hired to go investigate some strange monsters and attacks around the Barrier Peaks, so far so business as usual. However, when the party gets there what we get is a science fiction setting of a crashed spaceship into which our party must venture.

This is immensely fun, particularly with a good DM and party who will act as if they are people in a medieval world facing a completely unexplained phenomena rather than 20th-21st century humans who have watched Star Trek. Accompanying the module is an art book with truly fantastic depictions of monsters, rooms and technology which is found during the exploration. The art of Earl Otus is particularly amazing here, more so in the few color plates included in the book. It's not a perfect module, however, there is very little plot and pretty confusing map instructions and an overly complex key card system which can be pretty frustrating. Well, nothing that a good DM with time and patience cannot fix. A classic module with a great concept at the centre of it. 

[baddieladdie]

FO4 Companions react to Sole's chem addiction

@falloutchicken Alright! Finished it~ Sorry it's a little long, I had an idea for a different format style and I ran with it - but I love how it turned out <3

tw: addiction, drugs, trauma, chem-use as an addiction

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While trading at the Diamond City market, the Sole Survivor of vault 111 overheard folks whispering over their steaming noodle bowls about an abandoned shopping center filled with valuable loot. The only barrier between them and the score of a lifetime were the supermutants inside. The gossiping locals didn’t have the fire power for such an altercation, but the sole survivor did. And they certainly would not be going alone.

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Selecting your companion:

Cait: I’ll come, but just don’t make me wear anything stupid

Curie: “Oh! Shopping!” She mused delightfully, her voice ringing with pleasure.

Codsworth: How delightful, mum! I do so miss shopping expeditions and, please pardon my saying, but your jumpsuit is looking rather drab. Off we go, miss!

Deacon: Sounds like my kind of dig! I could always use some new disguises.

McCready (sarcastically): Oh, we better hurry. I hear clothes practically fly off the shelves with their discounts.

Piper: Jesus, Blue. Sounds dangerous. Something wrong with the clothes you already have?

Preston: Absolutely, General. I wouldn’t want you facing this on your own.

Hancock: *heh* Thought you’d never ask. Let’s get the fuck out of Diamond city.*grumbles, muttering under his breath* Never understood how these bigots can sleep at night…

Danse: I advise against putting yourself in unnecessary danger. The gossip of strangers isn’t worth risking your life, but I’ll be damned if I let you face this alone.

Nick Valentine: Well, if it’s worth your time kid, than it’s worth mine *grabs his hat and coat before locking the detective agency door behind them* Lead the way

X6-88: I agree. We might find something useful. A large shopping center may have valuable pre-war goods. Right behind you, ma’am.

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The Sole Survivor walks out of Diamond City with their companion, combat shotgun in hand. Though well armored and stocked with plenty of ammunition, they carefully made their way south through the ruins of Boston. Sole and their companion had not walked far from the Boston Police Rationing Site when they heard the unmistakable sounds of feral ghouls, clumsily kicking tin rubbish and bones left on the broken streets. Sole and their companion crouched behind the remains of a building’s wall. Daring a look, sole peaked above the wall, only to notice the dirty, ruined faces but unmistakable faces of her pre-war neighbors, Mr. Donoghue and Mrs. Donoghue. Sole immediately felt sick and dizzy watching the two ghouls stumble down the street aimlessly, eyes white and staring at nothing. Mr. Donoghue and Mrs. Donoghue were expecting a child as well. Sole had spent hours in their kitchen, chatting about the excitement of parenthood. They swapped ideas over coffee and pie. 200 years after the bombs dropped, while sole was safe in a vault, her neighbors had been turned into radiation monsters, void of the humanity they used to possess. Alive in a physical sense, but her neighbors were lost. Sole had no choice but to put them down and out of their miserable experience. It’s what they would have wanted…

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Your companion reacts:

Cait: Jesus Christ, not a way to go. At least you had the ‘ol Vault-Tec treatment, eh? *Cait notices tears filling in sole’s eyes, rapidly decides to change her approach* I - er - um…..I know this must be difficult for you…I…I am here if you need to talk, or something.

Curie: One must wonder, what causes the deterioration of this ghoul condition? Some "ghouls" are in possession of their mental faculties. Others are not. I wonder why Mr. Donoghue and Mrs. Donoghue became feral while many other ghouls have maintained their mental capacities [Sole - Those were my neighbors, Curie. Not a science experiment] My apologies, sir/madam, I didn't mean to offend you. Grief can be managed with a well balanced diet, exercise, and spending time with loved ones!

Codsworth: Oh dear *emotional processors cracking through his speakers* Is that…the Donoghues? Mum, I’m…I’m so sorry *offers a hankie*

Deacon: Well, that was terrible *sigh* radiation, you unbelievable bastard.[notices how upset sole is] Ah..Look, I’m sorry. This…I mean, what you’re going through, I can’t even imagine. If you wanna talk or something…[trails off]

McCready: Oh man…*He pauses, letting the information sink in regarding sole’s neighbors* I’m really sorry. We can turn around if you want. That department store isn’t going anywhere. 

Piper: You okay, [sole]? You seem pretty shaken up. Why don’t we rest for a bit.

Preston: Oh, I’m really sorry, General. *he removes his hat, holding to his chest, tired eyes looking away in respect* Take all the time you need. I can help you bury the bodies if you would like to give them a proper burial.

Hancock: Ah shit. Old neighbors, huh? Hey, let's just get outta here. I hate seein’ you so broken up like this.

Danse: You’re awfully quiet. Want to tell me what’s on your mind? [listens intently to what Sole says about the feral ghouls they had recognized and killed] I see. Take as long as you need, soldier. I can’t imagine what you must be feeling right now.

Nick Valentine: “You seemed to recognize those two, who were they?” [response from sole] “Oh, I’m so sorry for your loss,” he spoke softly, placing a supportive synth hand on sole’s arm.

X6-88: Those were your neighbors? My condolences.

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The sole survivor heaves in grief, but is eventually able to continue on, intrigued by the elaborate wooden welcome sign to Fairline Hill Estates. They had toured the gated community long ago when looking for a house. Sanctuary Hills, the houses of tomorrow, had captured their attention more, with all their technologically advanced features the estates lacked. But all that remained now were the corpses of friends turned into monsters from nuclear radiation and two lazy yao guai, chewing on the bloody bones of rotting brahmin.

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Your companion reacts:

Cait: Oh! Such fascinating creatures! Shall we get a closer look? I wish to study the effects of radiation on these beasts

Curie: You’ve got be fucking kiddin’ me. yao guai? That’s the last thing we need right now.

Codsworth: Oh dear. You don’t think they can see us, right mom?

Deacon: That is disgusting *he giggles* How do you want to play this, boss?

McCready: *Chuckles gleefully, silently pulling out his well polished rifle* This is where the fun begins.

Piper: Well that’s just great. Breaking news: Diamond City reporter torn to ribbons by a giant, stupid, irritated bear.

Preston: Dammit, I think we're in trouble here *pulls out his musket, at the ready* I’m with you, general.

Hancock: We ain’t alone *drops shotgun ammunition into the barrels of his gun* Those yao guai are mean bastards, they hit hard. Just lemme know when you’re ready and I got your back.

Danse: Yao guai..Not to worry, we’ll send those monsters right back to hell [Charges, heavily clad in power armor, laser weapons firing away, breaking the silence of a sleepy afternoon] Die, you godless heathen! Die!

Nick Valentine: There’s no getting out of this without a fight *loads his 10mm with a satisfying click* You ready, kid?

X6-88: Good, I was starting to feel a little bored. You ready to engage, [sole]? This shouldn’t take long

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The Sole Survivor and their trusted companion gawk at the yao guai corpses, bleeding from their many fatal bullet holes. Sole sighs in exhaustion, dropping to squat and holding their face in hands.Their companion rubs their back sympathetically and suggests the tempting idea of spending the night at Fairline Hills Estates. The area was relatively safe now, with Mr. Donoghue & Mrs. Donoghue and the yao guais dead. Keenly aware of the mental torment they both witnessed and given Sole’s fragile state, their trusted companion led the way to the southeast house. Sole collapses weakly on the sunken couch and watches as their companion wanders into the brokedown kitchen to prepare dinner for the night. They ate the meal peacefully without many words to be said about the days’ events. The sole survivor turned down every request to talk about the killing of her neighbors and the close call they had with the yao guai in what used to be a highly sought after gated community. Their companion accepted that sole just wasn’t ready to talk about. They offer to take the first watch to let the sole survivor get some much needed rest.

Once their trusted companion shuts the door to the house to begin their watch, the sole survivor slinks away to the attached garage. They had noticed the chemistry station earlier and knew exactly how to use it. There were piles of dead leaves everywhere, a natural fertilizer. Using the leaves along with the plastic from some junk lying around the house, sole knew they could craft jet - lots of jet. Sole gets to work, tinkering feverishly at the chemistry station, sweating from the withdrawal and desperate for relief. The Sole Survivor sighed in contented satisfaction, admiring their own craftsmanship. Not even bothering to step from the chemistry station, they begin taking hit after hit of jet. Sighing happily as the pain of memories and her broken heart eased into comfortable numbness. Sole wanted to take jet until they couldn’t remember who they were, much less what had happened to them. Sole stumbled back slightly, the room a spiraling blur. No matter, they take another hit and watch the world slowly rise until they felt their back hit the floor. The stared blankly at the ceiling, surrounded by empty jet cartridges. Hearing the loud THUD sole’s companion rushed into the room, fearing the worst (an intruder, a kind of murderous threat) only to find in their horror, a close friend in indescribable pain.

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Your companion reacts:

Cait: “*tsk* Havin’ a good time now, are we?” Cait teased, pointing on the jet in sole’s hand as they slouched against the chemistry station. Cait’s eyes scanned the scene further, noticing the familiar signs of a serious addiction problem.Given the amount of empty jet canisters scattered on the floor around sole, it was a miracle they were even still alive.] I think you’ve got a wee bit of a drug problem, [sole]. Which ain’t right, especially after everythin’ you watched me go through. Why would you let yourself get hooked on the stuff? Can’t believe you’re doin’ this to yourself?!” She shouted, breathing deepling like sole had taught her to calm down. “You’re an idiot, [sole]. But I’ll help ya, just like how you helped me. Let’s go, we’re getting you cleaned up”

Curie: She stares curiously, “I have more than enough data on the physiological effects of chems, there is no need to provide me with more data, sir/madam.” She notices the dilated pupils, racing heart beat, the sweating… “Are you alright, sir/madam? I believe you should see a doctor, we cannot treat your condition here.”

Codsworth: “Are you well, mum?!” Codsworth panicked, desperately trying to assess the situation. A Mister Handy bot was designed for household duties, not crises.

Deacon: Wow, looks like you’ve been partying pretty hard with out me. Miiiight want to lay off cause I think you’ve enough.

McCready: *Slaps the empty get out of sole’s hand, they glare at him angrily, demanding an explanation* That crap is gonna rot your mind. This stops right now (Dad-mode activated)

Piper: Ooooookay (nabs all the empty jet cartridges) I think you’ve had enough, Blue. (Stares at the insane amount of jet in the room). I think we better get you to a doctor. I just hope it’s not too late (she sighs heavily, emotion tightening around her neck hotly) This is why I wanted to talk, Blue! So you - you wouldn’t do anything stupid! Arg! What a mess. Come on, (she lifts sole up) let’s get you to a doctor.

Preston: This is how it ends, [sole]. You keep this up and I’ll have to bury a friend. The Minutemen need you. I need you. And you don’t need those chems. You have people who love and care about you.

Hancock: “Woah!” Hancock froze, staring at the used jet scattered about the room. 2..4..6..three over there, that makes 9…pile of 5 in the corner makes…14? 14! How are they alive? Hancock glanced at the sole survivor, slumped pitifully against the chemistry station, empty jet still in hand. They just kept staring at his boots, completely unresponsive, but he could see the steady rise and fall of their chest with each shallow breath. Hancock began to sweat, panic sweeping in, staring at sole’s chest. What if it they stop…what if they breathing stops - he’s mayor, not fucking doctor.”H-hey, stay with me, now! Look,” He turn’s sole’s face to look at him only to be greeted with dull and empty eyes. “Hey, sunshine. It’s me, remember? Hancock. D-don’t go, you can’t do this to me. I need you, please. Don’t leave me alone.” Tears welled in the crevices of Hancok’s face as he sat beside the sole survivor, holding their hand. He gasped as a familiar smooth hand rested on his. “I could never forget you, Hancock.” The mayor choked back sobs, gripping sole’s hand like it could fade away any moment. “Don’t you ever do this again. Never trip alone. We’re getting you help. Like, now now.” He takes sole’s arm and wraps it around his shoulder’s, pulling them to their feet.

Danse: [Stares in stunned silence mixed with disgust and concern] He crouches beside sole, pushing the drugs away, and whispered angrily, “How can you fight when your brain’s clouded with those drugs? You’re going to get yourself killed. And I’m not just gonna stand here and watch brotherhood’s best, my friend, die unnecessarily. We’re getting you clean and that’s an order.”

Nick Valentine: “SHIT!” Nick hissed under his breath. He'd see a lot of folks at their worst in his line of work. He’d seen this scene too many times before. A case closed in an overdose. There were even some rare occasions where he found Mayor Hancock after a few too many chems. But usually, there were warning signs. How could he call himself a detective when he couldn’t even save his friend from themselves. Nick crouches beside the body, holding their limp wrist in his. A pulse, weak but still there. “Alright, now you’ve done it, kid” He scooped up the sole survivor into his arms. “We need to get you to a doc.”

X6-88: Oh god…[composes himself] You don’t look so good sir/ma’am, Might want to lay off the chems for a while. I’ll be throwing these away (disposes of all the chems the Sole Survivor made and had on their person)

The Sole Survivor wakes up in a familiar bed at the Castle, a stack of addictol was left on the nightstand. This was certainly a more permanent detour to Fallon’s Department store than they planned for. Sole’s companion apologizes for moving them and delaying their trip to the department store. But sole’s close friend promises profusely that it was and always will be for the sole survivor’s own good. They promise again and again that they do not feel any different about them and still deeply appreciate the relationship that they share. So much so, they couldn’t bare to lose their friend to addiction. After some time and regular check-ins with the Minutemen Surgeon General, The Sole Survivor will finally leaves thre Castle and continuing their journey.