From the very beginning of the fourth campaign, fresh DM the talented storyteller has kept fans guessing with deep backstory, a diverse cast of heroes, and a exciting storyline showcasing divine entities, evil spirits, and sinister influences expanding in strength within the city.
Note: Spoilers for the third episode of this adventure are included.
The Soldiers Table Introduced
The third episode concluded with a dramatic pause and introduced the initial group of characters who will split off from the central cast to undertake their own adventure, distinct from the other two tables.
The Soldiers table consists of the determined fighter (brought to life by Travis Willingham), the nimble rogue (the talented performer), the fierce warrior (the cast member), the cleric (Sam Riegel), and Kattigan Vale (Robbie Daymond).
The Reason for Division
Considering an extensive roster, it was clear from the start that keeping everyone at the same party would be unfeasible.
Hence, the opening chapters of the new season serve as an Introduction, connecting the individual narratives before dividing into three separate parties: Warriors, Planners, and Seekers.
The Nature of the Combat Party
As described by the DM, the Soldiers table is for adventurers who prefer a typically action-packed combat and conflict-driven gameplay experience where peaceful solutions are rare.
At first glance, characters like the reluctant priest Wicander Halovar might appear out of place, but the actions of the latest installment make it clear why these particular heroes are perfectly fit for the Soldiers table.
Motivations for Departure
To begin with, the group understands precisely where to head next after a brutal initial meeting with The Crow Keepers.
Casimir of Thjazi Fang—whose death started the story’s plot—used The Crow Keepers for his selfish purposes, breaking into Thjazi’s hideout, attacking Thimble, and stealing all the magical artifacts to sell off.
The traitor then paid off his obligations and escaped to a secure base in Gormalay, Timmony, north of the city, with Cyd Pridesire hot on his heels.
Character Drivers
Additionally, each member has a individual motive to depart Dol-Makjar:
- The agile hero, as the close ally and best friend, seeks retribution.
- Kattigan has experience in Timmony and cautions that it is a hostile place.
- The warrior and Wicander, having resisted his relatives’ demands to kill the target and instead freed him, have no safe haven.
- However, their reputation as key figures in House Halovar could help the party enter areas they typically wouldn’t be able to.
- Furthermore, Teor vowed a life debt to The cleric for his rescue and will now go with him anywhere.
Fugitives
In addition, all of them are wanted by the rulers that control Dol-Makjar for a range of causes, making staying in the city no longer safe:
- Thimble and Kattigan are recognized lawbreakers.
- Tyranny and The healer defied House Halovar and the army of fiends they are partnered with.
- The fighter is wanted dead by House Halovar.
This means them few options but to head to Timmony in quest for the traitor.
Upcoming Developments
Based on episode three’s follow-up content, we learn that the combat party will be absent the following episode, leaving the other eight players to assemble the Seekers and Planners tables.
Viewers can expect finding out which characters will be in which group in Campaign 4’s concluding setup installment, streaming live on next week.
