Publisher: Goodman Games
If you are a fan of DCC RPG or Jack Vance’s Dying Earth novels, you will love this adventure by Harley Stroh. It is the third installment in the DCC Dying Earth line of adventures, which are based on the classic fantasy/science fiction book series by Vance. The adventure is designed for level 3 characters, but can be easily adapted to other levels or settings.
The Plot
The adventure takes place in the City of Cuirnif, where a grand exposition of marvels is being held. The exposition showcases various wonders and inventions from different lands and eras, such as the Manse Ashtark, a mysterious mansion that contains secrets and dangers, and the Laughing Idol of Lar-Shan, a strange artifact that can grant wishes or curses. The players will have the opportunity to explore the exposition, interact with various NPCs, and discover the hidden agendas and intrigues behind the scenes. The adventure also introduces a new spell for DCC Dying Earth campaigns, called The Spell of the Ineffable Name, which allows the caster to invoke the true name of a person or thing and gain power over it.
The Style
The adventure is written in a clear and engaging style, full of flavor and humor. The author does a great job of capturing the spirit and tone of Vance’s novels, which are known for their whimsy, weirdness, and wit. The adventure is not linear, but rather offers multiple paths and choices for the players to explore and influence the outcome. The adventure also has plenty of dark and sinister elements, as well as some moral dilemmas and ethical quandaries for the players to face.
The Presentation
The adventure is well-presented and illustrated, with several handouts, maps, tables, and artwork that enhance the immersion and enjoyment of the adventure. The adventure also provides enough background information and guidance to run the adventure smoothly, as well as tips and suggestions for adapting it to different scenarios or preferences. The adventure is suitable for both new and experienced players and judges of DCC RPG.
What are the most interesting locations in this adventure?
There are many interesting locations in this adventure, but some of the most notable ones are:
- The Manse Ashtark: This is a mysterious mansion that belongs to the enigmatic Ashtark, a powerful and secretive wizard. The manse is full of secrets and dangers, such as hidden passages, traps, puzzles, and strange creatures. The players will have the chance to explore the manse and uncover its mysteries, as well as encounter Ashtark himself and his allies or enemies.
- The Laughing Idol of Lar-Shan: This is a strange artifact that is displayed at the exposition. It is a statue of a laughing face that can grant wishes or curses to those who touch it. The players will have to deal with the consequences of their actions, as well as the rivalries and conflicts that arise from the idol’s influence.
- The Hall of Wonders: This is the main attraction of the exposition, where various wonders and inventions from different lands and eras are showcased. The players will see and interact with various marvels, such as the Clockwork Automaton, the Crystal Ball of Zalazar, the Flying Carpet of Al-Rashid, and many more. The players will also have to face some challenges and dangers that lurk in the hall, such as thieves, saboteurs, and hostile NPCs.
What are the most interesting encounters in this adventure?
There are many interesting encounters in this adventure, but some of the most notable ones are:
- The Spell of the Ineffable Name: This is a new spell for DCC Dying Earth campaigns, which allows the caster to invoke the true name of a person or thing and gain power over it. The spell can be used for various purposes, such as commanding, charming, harming, or banishing the target. However, the spell also has some risks and drawbacks, such as backlash, corruption, and counter-spells. The players will have to learn and use the spell wisely, as well as deal with the consequences of their actions.
- The Duel of Wits: This is a challenge that the players will face in the Manse Ashtark, where they will have to engage in a verbal contest with Ashtark’s rival, the wizard Zalazar. The duel of wits is a test of intelligence, creativity, and wit, where the participants have to insult, mock, or outsmart each other using clever words and phrases. The duel of wits is not only a matter of pride, but also a matter of life and death, as the loser will face a dire fate.
- The Laughing Idol’s Curse: This is a danger that the players will face if they touch the Laughing Idol of Lar-Shan and make a wish. The idol will grant their wish, but also curse them with a random effect that will make them regret their choice. The curse can be anything from physical deformity, mental instability, bad luck, or worse. The players will have to find a way to break or reverse the curse, or live with it forever.
Based on The Dying Earth Book Series by Jack Vance.
Dungeon Crawl Classics Dying Earth #3 Magnifent Machinations at the Grand Exposition on DrivethruRpg
