Episodes

Jun 12, 2024

Eberron co-designer Bill Slavicsek and Eberron: A Chronicle of Echoes co-creator/co-host Rebecca Gray join Keith and Kristian to celebrate Eberron ‘s 20th anniversary, recounting the journey from its original concept— Thrilling Tales of Sword and Sorcery —to the setting we all know and love today.

Jun 14, 2022

Scorpions, shadows and flames! Keith, Wayne and Imogen explore the cultures of the drow of Xen’drik. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:36 – References 3rd Edition Sourcebooks: Races of Eberron Secrets of Xen’drik Dragon Mag. 330 – The Umbragen Dragonmarks: Drow Dragonmarks: Drow, Dwarves and More! 00:02:55 – What are the Drow of Eberron? 00:04:00 – Qaltiar/Vulkoori and Wide Primal 00:04:41 – Sulatar 00:05:32 – Umbragen 00:07:03 – Changes Since 3.5e 00:09:54 – Umbragen Design History 00:15:23 – Drow Stories 00:30:51 – Drow PCs 00:41:54 – The Sulatar Multiverse 00:44:10 – Umbragen in Khorvaire 00:46:03 – Close Thank you to Joseph Meehan for assisting with identifying the timestamps for the chapter markers.

Feb 8, 2022

With all their bribes properly paid, Keith, Wayne and Imogen are back to talk about the major criminal factions in Eberron. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:02:10 – Sources Eberron: Rising from the Last War, pg 68-72, 245-259 Sharn: City of Towers , pg 149-156 City of Stormreach , pg 71-74 Eye on Eberron: Daask, Dungeon Magazine 194 IFAQ: What are Doppelgangers? Explore Fairhaven, Dungeon Magazine #170 , #173 , #175 00:04:10 – Noir vs Pulp 00:07:51 – Arcane 00:09:09 – The Law and PCs 00:13:10 – Crime is Core to Eberron 00:14:50 – The Tyrants 00:15:50 – Nonhuman Criminals 00:22:11 – Organized Crime as a DM 00:26:02 – The Boromar Clan 00:32:58 – Daask 00:43:42 – The Tyrants (reprise) 00:51:43 – House Tarkanan 00:59:00 – Player Characters 01:03:30 – Wrap Up Thank you to Joseph Meehan for assisting with identifying the timestamps for the chapter markers.

Aug 17, 2021

Once upon a time, Keith, Wayne and Imogen tell the story of Thelanis and the fey of Eberron. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction Thelanis in Play Thelanis and the Fey Thelanis in Play: Artifacts Thelanis in Play: Curses iFAQ: Historical Figures in Thelanis? The City of Silver and Bone Fairy Tales in Eberron 00:02:10 – What are the Fey 00:03:13 – Dal Quor vs. Thelanis 00:06:02 – Stories are Real 00:07:17 – What is a Fey? 00:09:24 – Eladrin 00:12:50 – Feyspires 00:15:12 – Fey Stories 00:20:00 – The magic we wish was in the world 00:21:45 – Why the Fey Matter 00:28:14 – Geography of Thelanis 00:30:00 – Courts of Thelanis 00:33:03 – Stranded Feyspires 00:37:32 – Fey Patrons 00:42:33 – Non-Warlock Fey Patrons 00:45:37 – Fey-touched characters without patrons 00:49:44 – Greensingers 00:52:21 – Fey Plots 00:56:29 – Closing Thank you to Joseph Meehan for assisting with identifying the timestamps for the chapter markers.

Jun 3, 2021

Keith, Wayne and Imogen brave the Mists to explore the vast and numerous horrors of Eberron. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction & References Dragonmarks: Ghost Stories 00:01:38 – What is Ravenloft? 00:04:04 – Dread Domains in Mabar 00:05:58 – What Is Horror? 00:08:45 – Horror Techniques 00:11:56 – Jump Scare vs Bomb Theory 00:15:40 – Scaring Players vs PCs 00:28:00 – Mechanics as Consequences 00:35:43 – Horror Affecting Eberron 00:38:37 – Dread Metrol 00:44:42 – Non-Ravenloft Horror in Eberron 00:46:13 – The Daelkyr 00:54:27 – The Mournland 00:56:20 – Folk Horror 01:03:06 – Ghost Stories 01:03:53 – Gothic Horror 01:08:10 – Final Thoughts 01:09:30 – Closing Thank you to Joseph Meehan for assisting with identifying the timestamps for the chapter markers.

Apr 28, 2021

Live at Ethereal Gary Con XIII, Keith, Wayne and Imogen are joined once again by special guest co-host Kristian Serrano to talk about our journeys in game design, and how we’d each break and remake Eberron. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:02:25 – Keith’s Journey 00:06:55 – Wayne’s Journey 00:11:43 – Imogen’s Journey 00:16:57 – Kristian’s Journey 00:19:08 – Kristian Breaks Demographics 00:21:39 – Imogen Breaks Breland 00:24:21 – Wayne Breaks Everything 00:26:15 – Keith Breaks History 00:31:01 – Closing

Feb 24, 2021

The Trust assures all our listeners that Keith, Wayne and Imogen aren’t stirring up trouble during their deep dive into the lore of Eberron’s gnomes. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:45 – Announcement – Live at Garycon + Savage Eberron with Kristian Serrano 00:02:15 – References Dragonshards: Gnomes of Zilargo, part 1 Dragonshards: Gnomes of Zilargo, part 2 Dragonmarks: The Gnomes of Lorghalen Dragonmarks: The Gnomes of Pylas Pyrial Dragonmarks: Svirfneblin IFAQ: The Trust Dragon Magazine 406 – Eye on Eberron: The Trust 00:03:26 – What is a Gnome 00:09:23 – Freedom vs Security 00:14:25 – Alchemy and Elemental Binding 00:21:26 – The Trust 00:31:54 – Fey Gnomes 00:37:17 – Lorghalen Gnomes 00:41:32 – Playing a Gnome 00:45:53 – House Sivis 00:50:39 – Picking the right origin 00:54:33 – Closing Thank you to Joseph Meehan for assisting with identifying the timestamps for the chapter markers.

Jan 20, 2021

Keith, Wayne and Imogen open up the lab and get experimental… it’s time to talk artificers and arcane science! Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:39 – Topic and References Dragonmarks: Arcane Science Dragonmarks: Arcane Arts Dragonmarks: Arcane History Exploring Eberron , page 29 00:05:51 – Wizards and Magic in Classic Fantasy 00:07:08 – Artificers in the Eberron Campaign Setting book 00:12:37 – 3.5e Artificer and Craft Reserve 00:13:46 – 4e Artificer 00:17:03 – 5e Artificer 00:22:33 – Tools as a Focus 00:29:13 – Arcane Science 00:34:50 – Artifice in the World 00:38:11 – House Cannith 00:41:12 – Certification and Regulation 00:47:24 – The Arcane Congress 00:50:21 – Wizarding Circles 00:52:00 – Beyond and Before Galifar 00:56:22 – The Giants 00:59:19 – Magical Pollution 01:00:58 – Adapting Techniques 01:02:47 – Demonic Artifacts 01:03:48 – Sul Khatesh 01:05:29 – Artificers without Arcane Science 01:06:41 – Closing Thank you to Joseph Meehan for assisting with identifying the timestamps for the chapter markers.

Dec 9, 2020

Cold Sun and Poison Dusk threaten Keith, Wayne and Imogen as they explore the frontiers of Q’barra. Time Markers 00:00:00 – New Sponsor: KB Presents 00:01:29 – References Dungeon 182 “Backdrop: Q’barra” Dungeon 185 “Poison Dusk, Black Sun” Dragonmarks: A Q’barra Campaign Dragonmarks: Lizard Dreams On the Edge of Hope: Building a Foundation 00:02:50 – What is Q’barra? 00:04:55 – Design Purpose 00:08:04 – Comparison to Xen’drik 00:11:52 – Why go to Q’barra? 00:13:50 – Edition Evolutions 00:18:06 – New Galifar 00:22:16 – Noble Politics in New Galifar 00:24:41 – Hope 00:27:07 – Ruins from the Age of Demons 00:29:36 – The Edge of Hope 00:31:25 – Lizardfolk and their Alien Nature 00:34:43 – Rhashaak and Haka’torvhak 00:36:10 – Masvirik the Cold Sun 00:37:17 – The Cold Sun Federation 00:38:04 – Lizard Dreams 00:41:46 – First Contact 00:43:34 – Colonialism and Property 00:44:17 – Darmok 00:46:22 – The Poison Dusk 00:48:00 – Dragonborn 00:55:16 – House Tharashk 00:58:51 – Q’barra Adventurers 01:03:17 – Closing Thank you to Joseph Meehan for assisting with identifying the timestamps for the chapter markers.

Nov 10, 2020

Keith, Wayne and Imogen stare into the witch’s pot to get a glimpse of the next D&D 5th Edition hardcover. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:03:30 – Character Origins 00:04:52 – Origin Feature Swapping 00:07:45 – Nationality in Eberron 00:10:42 – Alternate Ability Score Increases 00:18:14 – Classes and Subclasses 00:19:03 – The Armorer 00:24:18 – The Barbarian 00:25:31 – Path of the Beast 00:28:41 – Wild Magic Barbarian 00:31:26 – Bard 00:32:29 – College of Creation 00:37:11 – College of Eloquence 00:38:47 – Cleric 00:39:20 – Order Domain 00:40:42 – Peace Domain 00:42:48 – Twilight Domain 00:44:47 – Druid 00:45:18 – Circle of Spores 00:48:14 – Circle of Stars 00:49:58 – Circle of Wildfire 00:51:17 – Fighter 00:51:36 – Psi Warrior 00:54:43 – Rune Knight 00:58:53 – Way of Mercy 01:00:23 – Way of the Astral Self 01:03:12 – Oath of Glory 01:05:24 – Oath of the Watcher 01:06:25 – Ranger 01:10:58 – Fey Wanderer 01:12:11 – Swarmkeeper 01:13:10 – Beastmaster Ranger 01:13:38 – Phantom 01:16:03 – Soulknife 01:18:24 – Sorcerer 01:19:14 – Aberrant Mind 01:22:12 – Clockwork Soul 01:24:28 – Warlock 01:25:25 – Fathomless Patron 01:27:03 – Genie 01:28:18 – Bladesinger 01:30:36 – Order of Scribes 01:31:49 – The Rest of the Book 01:34:58 – Closing Thank you to Joseph Meehan for assisting with identifying the timestamps for the chapter markers.

Oct 1, 2020

The Inspired graciously welcome Keith, Wayne and Imogen to the Unity of Riedra. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:51 – References Keith Baker’s Dragonmarks: Riedra in 5e Provinces of Riedra Provinces of Riedra (Patreon Expansion) Cities of Riedra Secrets of Sarlona Escape from Riedra : An Across Eberron Adventure 00:02:25 – What is Riedra? 00:03:26 – Humans as Colonizers 00:04:22 – Kalashtar and Inspired Design History 00:06:25 – Optional Psionics 00:08:14 – Humans as Invaders 00:09:05 – Sarlona as Exotic and Mysterious 00:10:15 – Riedra is not Asia 00:11:43 – IC vs OOC Knowledge 00:17:36 – Rebellion Against Authority 00:19:57 – Old Civilisation and Secrets 00:23:30 – The Dreaming Dark’s Takeover 00:25:38 – The Path of Inspiration 00:29:14 – Wide Psionics 00:32:03 – The Riedran Mindset 00:34:54 – Wide Psionics, Part 2 00:40:29 – Thought Police 00:43:40 – Edgewalkers and Manifest Zones 00:45:30 – How do you use Riedra as a DM? 00:46:35 – Riedra in Khorvaire 00:47:48 – Non-Kalashtar Rebels 00:48:13 – Getting to Riedra 00:49:23 – Legitimate Business 00:52:00 – Escape from Riedra 00:53:46 – PCs from Riedra in Khorvaire 00:54:28 – Loyal Riedran PCs 00:58:08 – Psionics in 5e 01:03:50 – Closing 01:04:21 – Blooper Thank you to Joseph Meehan for assisting with identifying the timestamps for the chapter markers.

Aug 20, 2020

Keith, Wayne and Imogen venture beyond the Shadowcrags to explore the ancient and terrible Demon Wastes. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Welcome and References Rising from the Last War : The Demon Wastes Keith Baker’s Dragonmarks: The Demon Wastes vs the Mournland The Age of Demons and You Orcs and the Ghaash’kala 00:01:32 – Background Information 00:06:18 – Before the First Release 00:07:50 – Fiends of Khyber 00:08:55 – Mordor 00:09:20 – The Ghaash’kala Twist 00:10:40 – The Overlords 00:12:40 – The Demon Wastes as the Mouth of Khyber 00:14:08 – Why Does This Matter 00:15:30 – High level Play in Eberron 00:17:00 The Wastes 00:21:50 – The Mournland vs The Demon Wastes 00:23:40 – The Labyrinth and the Ghaash’kala 00:28:08 – Demonic invasions 00:29:12 – The Lair of the Keeper 00:35:20 – Ashtakala 00:38:00 – The Lords of Dust 00:40:30 – Demonglass 00:41:15 – Lords of Dust Meetings 00:42:19 – The Source of Fiends 00:42:58 – Rakshasa 00:46:24 – The Carrion Tribes 00:50:55 – Carrion Tribe PCs 00:53:55 – Historical Invasions 00:54:48 – Demon Wastes Artifacts 00:59:27 – Anyone can join the Ghaash’kala 1:00:05 – Settling the Demon Wastes 1:01:24 – Drawing Power from the Demon Wastes 1:03:02 – Closing Thank you to Joseph Meehan for assisting with identifying the timestamps for the chapter markers.

Jul 30, 2020

Keith, Wayne and Imogen are joined by special guest Laura Hirsbrunner to discuss the content and process of Keith’s newest Eberron hardcover: Exploring Eberron. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Guest Appearance: Laura Hirsbrunner Laura Hirsbrunner’s Twitter 00:00:50 – Previews Sly Flourish’s Stream Preview KB Presents Twitter Exploring Eberron on the DM’s Guild 00:01:50 – What is Exploring Eberron? 00:04:02 – Book Content Overview 00:05:10 – Chapter 1: Discover 00:07:40 – Cyre 00:08:10 – The Last War 00:08:48 – Magic in the World 00:09:43 – The Focus on Character Applications 00:13:11 – Chapter 2: Races 00:15:03 – Chapter 3: Faiths 00:17:10 – Blood of Vol and the Silver Flame 00:18:05 – The Sovereign Host 00:19:54 – Cults of the Dragon Below 00:24:37 – Chapter 4: Uncharted Domains 00:27:51 – Wide Monster 00:29:08 – The Thunder Sea 00:34:21 – Evolution from the Original Eberron Draft 00:37:21 – Sea Elves 00:39:27 – Chapter 5: The Planes 00:46:33 – Daanvi 00:47:09 – Xoriat and the Maze of Reality 00:53:03 – The Planes at all Tiers 00:53:27 – Fernia, Risia and Developing Exciting Themes 00:56:30 – Chapters 6-8 00:59:44 – Playable Sahuagin 01:01:53 – Chapter 7: Treasures & Siberys Dragonmarks 01:05:51 – Symbionts 01:06:46 – Chapter 8 01:07:42 – Du’ulora Quori Art 01:08:43 – The Forgotten Prince 01:10:33 – On Being “Done” 01:15:36 – What’s with the bananas? 01:17:43 – The Map of the Planes 01:20:30 – Favorites 01:25:24 – Closing Thank you to Joseph Meehan for assisting with identifying the timestamps for the chapter markers.

Jun 30, 2020

Keith, Wayne, Kristian, and their new co-host, Imogen Gingell venture into the wilds of the Eldeen Reaches. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:13 – New Co-host: Imogen Gingell! 00:03:16 – Readings: Catching Up and the Eldeen Reaches Druids in Eberron 00:04:02 – Druidic Magic as an Adopted Cultural Tool 00:07:30 – Who Signed the Treaty of Thronehold on Behalf of Oalian 00:09:59 – Oalian and the Wardens of the Wood 00:11:10 – New Chapter 00:12:13 – Druid-like Communities and Characters 00:15:04 – Leveraging the Wardens of the Wood 00:18:26 – Wardens are the Protective Barrier between the Wild and the People 00:20:11 – The Dangers of the Eldeen Reaches 00:24:01 – Range of Adventures in the Eldeen Reaches 00:28:23 – Fey and the Greensingers 00:30:32 – Manifest Zones and Powerful Threats 00:34:28 – The Conflict with Aundair 00:38:00 – Character’s Views on Aundair 00:40:44 – Opportunities for House Vadalis 00:43:01 – Archetypes of the Eldeen 00:46:18 – How Did the Secession Affect You? 00:46:52 – Characters Touched by the Fey 00:47:39 – Concept: Lost Soldiers Emerging into a Changed World 00:49:05 – Change Happens 00:50:01 – Special Announcement 00:55:56 – Wrap Up

Jun 4, 2020

Keith, Wayne, and Kristian delve deep into the Mror Holds to dig into the dwarves. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introductions 00:00:55 – Readings: Dwarves of the Mror Holds, Part 1 Dwarves of the Mror Holds, Part 2 Dragonmarks: Dwarves Dragonmarked Exploring Eberron (Coming Soon ) 00:03:30 – Dwarves in Eberron vs. Traditional Settings 00:06:16 – Dwarves and Craftsmanship 00:08:40 – Exiles from The Realm Below 00:13:11 – Using Symbionts 00:14:43 – A Concrete Place for the Daelkyr 00:16:41 – Dwarvish Artifacts 00:18:15 – Dwarves in Exploring Eberron 00:20:50 – How Dwarves Tell Stories 00:24:00 – Using Lore to Create Characters 00:26:46 – Symbionts and Darkblood Dwarves 00:29:21 – Dwarf Stories 00:31:21 – Colonizing the Realm Below 00:33:50 – The War Below 00:37:54 – Khyber’s Demiplanes 00:40:22 – New Symbionts as Living Tools 00:41:51 – The Jhorash’tar 00:46:07 – Exploring Eberron for Players 00:47:31 – Wildemount’s Heroic Chronicles 00:49:05 – Dwarf Player Character’s Views and Stories 00:53:19 – Dwarven Aging 00:55:29 – Subraces, Darkblood Dwarves, and Rusty’s ‘Sunglasses’ 00:58:58 – Wrap Up Thank you to Joseph Meehan for assisting with identifying the timestamps for the chapter markers.

Apr 21, 2020

Keith, Wayne, and Kristian explore the culture and identity of Eberron’s half-elves. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introductions 00:01:13 – Readings The Khoravar: Half-elves of Khorvaire Dragonmarked Player’s Guide to Eberron 00:02:41 – History of Khoravar as a Distinct Race 00:07:02 – Half-elf Lifespans 00:09:34 – Eberron’s Half-elves vs. D&D’s Half-elves 00:12:00 – Giving Half-elves Their Own Story 00:14:04 – No Nation of Khoravar 00:16:11 – Building a Racial Identity 00:23:40 – The Power of House Lyrandar as a “Nation” 00:33:20 – The Subtlety of House Medani 00:38:29 – Broader Khoravar Community 00:42:14 – Half-elven Districts? 00:45:22 – Bridge between Two Worlds 00:46:27 – Khoravar Cant 00:49:30 – Exception to Nationality over Race 00:50:46 – Playing a Khoravar vs. Newborn Half-elf 00:53:09 – Your Half-elf Character’s Age 00:54:31 – Do You Feel a Tie to a Dragonmarked House? 00:54:50 – Are You Interested in Your Elven Heritage? 00:55:51 – Where’s Your Family/Community Base? 00:57:46 – Newborns Blending into Khoravar Communities 01:00:21 – Khoravar Are Really Just Changelings! 01:00:30 – Wrap up

Feb 21, 2020

Keith and Kristian examine the Treaty of Thronehold, how it has shaped the continent of Khorvaire, and what effects it can have in your campaign. 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:34 – Readings? 00:01:39 – Two Years before and after the Signing 00:03:48 – New Nations and Shifted Borders 00:09:52 – From Galifar to the Current Map 00:14:40 – Galifar Code of Justice 00:19:46 – Warforged as Citizens 00:29:05 – Adhering to the Code of Galifar 00:32:49 – Sentinel Marshals as Enforcers 00:38:29 – Sidenote: Reinforcing the Treaty of Thronehold 00:38:55 – Difference between Sentinel Marshal and Tharashk Bounty Hunter 00:39:56 – Who Enforces the Treaty? 00:42:05 – The Nations Still Figuring It Out 00:44:08 – The Cold War and Adventuring Risks 00:48:07 – How Much Weight Does It Carry in Your Campaign? 00:50:14 – Warforged Breaking Indentured Servitude 00:52:16 – Losses and Gains from the Treaty 00:56:46 – Wrapping Up

Jan 20, 2020

Keith and Kristian venture to the outer regions of Khorvaire to study the various cultures of orcs and half-orcs. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:17 – Readings Dragonmarks: Orcs and the Gaash’kala Dragonmark 3/19/14: Orcs, Mean Streets and More The Dragon Below Trilogy The Binding Stone The Grieving Tree The Killing Song 00:01:28 – What Sets the Orcs of Eberron Apart 00:06:00 – Specific Orc Subcultures 00:06:21 – Shadow Marches Orcs 00:08:50 – Tribes, Clans, and House Tharashk 00:13:14 – Player Motivations 00:14:25 – Half-orc Status 00:18:32 – Cults of the Dragon Below 00:19:48 – The Jhorsh’tar 00:23:05 – Droaam Orcs 00:26:48 – Orcs in the Demon Wastes and the Ghaash’kala 00:27:06 – New Chapter 00:35:04 – Why Orcs are Great 00:36:30 – Meme Reference: Gatekeeper vs. Valenar 00:39:00 – Half-orcs: The Bridge between Worlds 00:40:30 – For Players 00:43:50 – Designing the Orcs of Eberron 00:46:40 – Ghaash’kala and the Prophecy 00:48:58 – Oracles of the Draconic Prophecy 00:50:43 – Alternative Gatekeeper Seals 00:54:24 – Wrap up Special thanks to Joseph Meehan for his assistance with capturing and submitting time markers on this episode.

Nov 15, 2019

Keith, Wayne, and Kristian talk about all of the exciting content and accessories to be released for Eberron and explore Eberron: Rising from the Last War .

Oct 10, 2019

Keith and Kristian are joined by Don Bassingthwaite, author of The Dragon Below and Legacy of Dhakaan trilogies of Eberron novels, to study the culture and history of the Dar. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:02:17 – Readings: The Dragon Below Trilogy The Binding Stone The Grieving Tree The Killing Song Legacy of Dhakaan Trilogy The Doom of Kings Word of Traitors The Tyranny of Ghosts Dragonshards – Heirs of Dhakaan Dragonshards – Strike Force: Dhakaan Dragonmarks: Goblins Eberron Dhakaani goblin vocabulary dictionary 00:05:54 – Advanced Goblins 00:08:33 – Humanized but Still Very Different from Humans 00:16:30 – Lawful Nature Contrasted with Orcs 00:18:44 – Dhakaani Lacking Faith-based Magic 00:24:02 – Don’s Inspiration for Legacy of Dhakaan 00:25:22 – The Feel of Cultural Depth 00:26:16 – Physical Presence of Goblinoid History 00:29:51 – For GMS 00:30:35 – Don’t Fall Back on Traditional Lore 00:31:25 – Goblinoids Don’t See Themselves as Villains 00:32:20 – Ancestral Dhakaani Ruins and Artifacts 00:35:57 – Subvert Assumptions 00:38:02 – Goblinoids as a Playable Race 00:40:30 – Goblinoid Character Concepts 00:46:56 – Advice for Visiting Rhukaan Draal 00:50:25 – Concepts to Explore Further 00:53:57 – Slavery in Darguun 00:58:43 – Wrap Up

Sep 7, 2019

Keith and Kristian catch up at Dragon Con to discuss Keith’s panels. Time Markers 00:00:03 – Introductions 00:00:55 – Eberron in Fifth Edition 00:18:32 – Best Dungeon Ever 00:25:14 – Monster Creation Lab 00:36:55 – The Most Dastardly Villains of All Time 00:43:40 – Keith’s Personal Dragon Con Highlights 00:45:52 – More about the 5E Books Thanks again to Rob Abrazado for helping to clean up the audio tracks for us.

Sep 4, 2019

Listen in on Keith’s “Eberron in Fifth Edition” panel at Dragon Con 2019 in which he discuss Eberron: Rising from the Last War by Wizards of the Coast and reveals the title of his own Eberron supplement Project Raptor .

Jul 23, 2019

What is Project “Raptor?” Without any inside knowledge of their own, Scott and Kristian get to interview Keith about his newest Eberron-related project. Get all the details–or as many as Keith is willing to share as of this recording–about this newly announced product.

Jun 26, 2019

Keith and Kristian are joined by special guests Chris Perkins, Bill Slavicsek, and James Wyatt. Together again, the original creative team discusses and celebrates 15 years of Eberron.

Jun 24, 2019

Keith, Wayne, and Kristian cross the borders of Breland to venture into the monstrous domain of Droaam. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:37 – Readings Dragonshards: Daughters of Sora Kell, Part 1 Dragonshards: Daughters of Sora Kell, Part 2 “Dragonmarks: Droaam and the Daughters of Sora Kell” “Backdrop: Graywall”, Dragon Magazine #368 00:01:27 – The Creative Origins of Droaam 00:03:47 – Challenging Your View of Monsters 00:06:40 – Droaam’s Motives 00:13:57 – Warlords Governing Territories 00:16:37 – Game of Thrones Campaign Style 00:18:15 – Internal Politics or Outsiders Coming In 00:19:40 – Decide Where You Think Droaam is Going 00:22:14 – How Abilitities Can Be Used as Tools 00:25:44 – Cultural Shift for the Monsters 00:27:26 – A Lawless Nation 00:28:34 – What If They Did Become a Recognized Nation? 00:29:24 – Still Have Their Own Cultures 00:31:00 – Open Worship of the Dark Six 00:31:44 – A Monster’s View of the World 00:33:59 – The Dark Six vs. The Sovereign Host 00:42:55 – Potential Cross Cultural Blending 00:43:52 – Three Ways Player Characters Might View Droaam 00:45:12 – PC’s Background in Droaam 00:48:03 – Player Character’s Expectations 00:52:52 – Wayne Summarizes 00:55:40 – Mixing Monstrous Abilities 00:57:16 – Wrap Up

May 15, 2019

Keith, Wayne, Kristian, and Scott hit the mean streets and step into the shadows of noir adventuring in Eberron. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:54 – Why Was Noir Included in Eberron? Readings: 00:07:21 – Chapter 9 of Eberron Campaign Setting 00:08:01 – Magewright, Marked, Cabal, Claw 00:10:17 – “Hardboiled Adventure”, Kobold Quarterly #3 00:11:01 – “Neo-noir Intrigue” and “Callestan”, Wayfinder’s Guide to Eberron 00:12:14 – Definition of Noir 00:13:21 – Moral Ambiguity and Motives 00:16:56 – Conveying Noir 00:19:41 – Agreeing on How Dark 00:23:33 – Consequences 00:26:09 – Attachment to a Place 00:27:53 – For GMs 00:28:12 – Pacing in Noir 00:29:19 – Use the Players’ Backstories 00:31:25 – Stories Don’t Always End Well 00:33:59 – Customized Stories 00:35:14 – Off-the-shelf Noir Adventures 00:37:55 – Backstory Cards 00:39:11 – Fiasco Game for Session 0 00:39:33 – Tools in Wayfinder’s Guide 00:42:04 – Tying to The Last War 00:43:20 – The Role of the Dragonmarked Houses 00:44:13 – Shadowrun as Inspiration 00:45:44 – Start with a Mystery as Noir Light 00:47:47 – Play with Players’ Perceptions 00:50:56 – For Players 00:51:07 – Dealing with Dragonmarked Houses 00:51:44 – Motivation and Disposition 00:54:02 – Roots and Connections 00:57:12 – Bonds in Powered by the Apocalypse Games 00:59:10 – Idea: Prescribe Terrible Things That Will Happen to Your Character in the Future 01:01:41 – Define Your Loyalties 01:05:12 – Wrap Up

Apr 14, 2019

Wayne, Kristian, and Scott swing into action to discuss swashbuckling in your Eberron games. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:22 – What We Mean by Swashbuckling Action 00:04:31 – Movies to Inspire 00:07:21 – Readings Dragonshards – Swashbuckling 101: Combat Environmental Elements in Wayfinder’s Guide to Eberron 00:10:01 – Players Can Prompt the GM 00:12:43 – Systems Can Influence Style 00:13:46 – Swashbuckling Action in D&D 5E 00:18:33 – Clearly Communicate Intent 00:22:54 – How GMs Can Facilitate Swashbuckling Action 00:23:00 – Set Expectations and Empower Players 00:23:38 – Invite Collaborative Descriptions 00:27:34 – Don’t Hinder, but Maintain Satisfaction 00:30:28 – Keep Encounters Interesting 00:35:27 – Big Damn Heros at the Beginning 00:40:09 – Backstory Cards for Starting at Higher Levels 00:41:17 – Look Beyond the Rules 00:51:35 – Why Are GMs Feel Afraid to Empower Players? 00:52:57 – Success but with Consequences 00:54:48 – Use Swashbuckling Action with Your NPCs 00:57:24 – Start with a Chase 01:00:10 – Closing Thoughts 01:04:17 – Wrap Up

Feb 17, 2019

Keith and Kristian step through a gate to explore the planes of Eberron. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:33 – Readings: Gearing Up for Eberron: Some Perspective on the World of Eberron Dragonmarks: Planes of Hope, Peace and Order Dragonmarks: Xoriat Dragonmarks: Thelanis and the Fey Dragonmarks: Thelanis in Play: Maniest Zones Dragonmarks: Thelanis in Play: Curses Dragonmarks: Thelanis in Play: Artifacts Dragonmarks: The Endless Night Dragonmarks: Shavarath and the Blood War 00:02:09 – Why the Orrery Model? 00:06:44 – Not the Home of the Gods 00:08:36 – The Stuff the World is Made of 00:09:21 – The Role of Immortals 00:11:07 – Influences of the Planes 00:13:47 – Manifest Zones as a Natural Resource 00:19:27 – Themes of the Planes 00:20:06 – Manifest Zones Reflect Aspects of the Planes 00:21:55 – Running through the List of Planes 00:22:50 – Shavarath 00:27:09 – Syrania 00:29:34 – Daanvi 00:33:42 – Kythri 00:37:21 – Dal Quor 00:45:20 – Xoriat 00:50:44 – Lamannia 00:53:06 – Thelanis 00:56:09 – Fernia and Risia 00:58:41 – Irian and Mabar 01:04:00 – Dolurrh 01:05:03 – So Much More to Cover 01:07:28 – Coterminous/Remote States 01:08:56 – Think of Interesting Ways Planes Can Be Used 01:11:20 – Wrap Up

Jan 21, 2019

Keith and Kristian explore all of the ways adventurers travel across the world of Eberron. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction Readings 00:01:14 – Dragonshards: Heroic Journeys 00:02:05 – Explorer’s Handbook 00:02:55 – Travel Helps Explore Styles of Adventure 00:08:02 – Travel and Cross-cultural Mixing 00:08:52 – Travel Supports Industries within the Setting 00:10:39 – Airships 00:12:50 – Lightning Rail 00:16:00 – Teleportation For GMs 00:19:04 – Journey vs. Destination 00:22:26 – The Time Element 00:27:18 – Travel Montage 00:31:12 – Weariness and Resources 00:33:17 – Giving PCs the Spotlight 00:34:11 – Downtime 00:36:54 – En Route from Atlas Games 00:39:43 – Plan “Random Encounters” in Advance For Players 00:40:27 – Knowing Travel Options 00:43:11 – Describing NPC Passengers and Use Them 00:46:37 – Roleplaying while Travelling 00:50:50 – End of the Journey (Wrap Up)

Nov 15, 2018

In his “Welcome to Eberron” panel at KimiKon 2018, Keith speaks with an audience of newcomers to the Eberron campaign setting. Audio editing by Rob Abrazado .

Oct 11, 2018

We have a full house with Keith, Wayne, Kristian, and Scott discussing the scope and role of magic items in Eberron. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:31 – Gaming and BS 206 – Magic and Eberron 00:02:07 – Ubiquity vs. Power Level 00:04:09 – Systems Dependent on Magic Items 00:09:33 – Setting Player Expectations 00:10:53 – Utility Instead of Power 00:14:52 – Where Do We Get Those Wonderful Toys? 00:22:31 – Designing Magic Items to Solve Problems 00:26:00 – Availability of Utility Items in a Campaign 00:30:41 – Wands as Common Tools 00:33:14 – Artificers as Weird Scientists 00:35:50 – Wizards Codifying Magic 00:37:00 – Consumable Magic Items 00:38:51 – Everyday Items as Magic Items 00:42:09 – Warforged as Magic Items 00:43:54 – Warforged Docents 00:47:09 – Acquiring Magic Items 00:49:36 – Dragonshard Items 00:52:56 – Eldritch Machines 00:56:10 – Aerenal and Mundane Magic Items 00:58:26 – Purchasing Magic Items 01:03:02 – Expensive but Not Powerful 01:03:45 – Crafting Magic Items 01:07:19 – Wrapping Up Special Thanks A huge thank you to Rob Abrazado for helping us fix some audio drift issues that were delaying out release!

Sep 6, 2018

In his “Eberron Returns!” Dragon Con panel, Keith fields questions about Eberron and its return for Dungeons & Dragons 5e.

Aug 21, 2018

Keith, Wayne, and Kristian explore the culture and lives of halflings (and the dinosaurs they rode in on). Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:59 – Readings Dragonmarks: Halflings Druids of Khorvaire, Part Three “Boromar Clan,” Dragon Magazine #354 00:04:34 – Halfling Culture 00:06:17 – Various Cultural Identities 00:08:36 – Roots in Wandering Tribes 00:13:23 – Mysterious Destinations in the Talenta Plains 00:21:11 – Racial Traits 00:27:33 – Halflings Riding Dinosaurs! 00:33:43 – Manifest Zones in the Talenta Plains 00:34:48 – Nation of Nations: Subcultures among Tribes 00:41:15 – Halfling Naming Conventions 00:42:48 – Civilized and Dragonmark Ties to Tradition 00:44:56 – Migrant Halflings Travling across Khorvaire 00:45:31 – Surviving and Making Your Way 00:47:45 – Tribalism within Organizations 00:50:39 – Wanderers Settling in Cities 00:54:46 – Dragonmarked Houses 00:55:56 – House Ghallanda Making Friends 01:02:08 – House Jorasco’s Vital Services 01:08:34 – Playing a Dragonmarked Halfling 01:16:12 – Wrapping up

Jul 23, 2018

Keith, Wayne, and Kristian discuss Wayfinder’s Guide to Eberron , Keith’s 5e supplement for Eberron. More Links Wizards of the Coast announcement Wayfinder’s Guide to Eberron FAQ Digital Content on D&D Beyond D&D Beyond video: Wayfinder’s Guide to Eberron for Dungeons & Dragons 5th Edition D&D Beyond video: The Playable Races of Eberron in Dungeons & Dragons D&D Beyond video: The War of Eberron in Dungeons & Dragons D&D Beyond video: Playing Warforged of Eberron D&D Beyond video: Playing Changelings in Eberron D&D Beyond video: Playing Kalashtar in Eberron D&D Beyond video: Playing Shifters in the World of Eberron D&D Beyond video: The Elves of Eberron

Jun 8, 2018

Keith, Wayne, and Kristian discuss the Lords of Dust and their complex schemes. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:52 – Readings Dragonmarks: The Lords of Dust Dragonmarks: The Age of Demons and You Dragon Magazine #337, “Eternal Evil: Lords of Dust” 00:04:25 – Why Rakshasa; “Overlords” vs. “Rajahs” 00:08:20 – Overlords embody a concept of evil 00:11:47 – Exposing the PCs to The Lords of Dust’s plans without spoilers 00:17:10 – The Lords of Dust feeling “too big” 00:25:37 – Only use on one or two grand-scale villains 00:27:41 – Threats for specific genres 00:29:14 – Focus on a specific objective, not the epic scheme 00:29:42 – The essence of the Overlords and the Lords of Dust 00:33:05 – Why the rakshasas don’t just rule the world 00:37:30 – Complex manipulations of the prophecy 00:44:47 – Make your own Overlord 00:45:37 – The Overlords are not allies 00:47:04 – The world knows very little about the Overlords 00:48:44 – Overlord names, titles, and themes 00:52:25 – For Players 00:52:57 – Progressively scaling up the enemies 01:02:04 – Using the story to shape your character’s perspective 01:02:45 – Warlocks and Overlord patrons 01:04:45 – Trappings for class abilities 01:06:39 – Wrap up

Apr 19, 2018

Scott, Keith, and Kristian explore the role of dragons in the world of Eberron. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:10 – Readings Dragonshards: The Role of Dragons Dragonshards: The Serens Dragonshards: The Draconic Prophecy Dragons of Eberron 00:02:55 – The impact of dragons 00:08:14 – Not XP fodder 00:10:05 – Almost living gods 00:12:20 – The dragons of Argonnessen and the Chamber 00:14:27 – The Draconic Prophecy 00:18:17 – Colors not bound by alignment 00:18:52 – Mastering shape changing for ‘espionage’ 00:22:49 – How and when dragons choose to interfere 00:27:18 – Rogue dragons 00:30:42 – Bringing Argonnessen into your campaign 00:36:06 – Dragon-themed archetypes for players 00:41:28 – Playing a Seren 00:42:06 – Playing a dragonborn 00:42:51 – ‘But I want to play a half-dragon sorcerer’ 00:44:16 – Dragon worshippers 00:47:52 – The role and place of dragonborn 00:51:37 – Original dragonborn in Races of the Dragon 00:54:17 – Final thoughts 00:55:46 – How to Play a Red Dragon Like and Evil Genius 00:57:22 – Wrap up

Feb 17, 2018

Kristian and Keith “dream” about kalashtar. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:57 – Gearing up for Eberron: Mind Games in Eberron 00:01:18 – Races of Eberron 00:01:33 – Dragonshards Articles 00:01:48 – Design Intent 00:05:54 – Oneiromancy in Occult Lore by Atlas Games 00:07:04 – Dragon Magazine #324: Living Nightmares 00:07:17 – Sarlona as a Separate Campaign Setting 00:07:37 – The Effects of Psionics on Civilization 00:13:09 – Core Concepts of Kalashtar 00:21:32 – Not the Same Quori as During the Age of Giants 00:23:54 – Psychology and Culture 00:26:25 – Personality Shaped by Type of Quori spirit 00:29:52 – Psicrystal as a Manifestation of the Quori Spirit 00:31:10 – Kalashtar Warlock Pact with Quori Spirit 00:32:50 – Three Main Approaches with Kalashtar 00:35:59 – Path of Light 00:43:15 – Alignment Restrictions Be Damned 00:45:51 – Communities across Eberron 00:47:32 – Think about Your Quori Spirit 00:48:46 – Why Not Advertise the Shadow War? 00:50:09 – How DMs Can Use the Shadow War 00:53:14 – The Dreaming Dark Has Two Fronts 00:56:56 – Inception [Film] as Inspiration (no pun intended) 00:59:26 – Dreaming Dark Playing Chess 01:05:21 – Wrapping Up 01:07:23 – Next Topic?

Feb 11, 2018

Keftiu writes in: I love changelings a lot, but it feels like they’re always forced into the role of the sneaky, deceptive Rogue. Do you have any other clever or unexpected classes you think fit the race well? Scott shares his experiences and suggestions. Additionally, Keith presented some ideas in a blog post on Changelings, Shifters and Lycanthropes as a follow up to our previous episode .

Jan 16, 2018

Kristian and Keith have a “freeform” discussion about changelings and shifters. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:24 – Why Changelings and Shifters Seem Underused 00:04:50 – Shifter Communities 00:08:00 – Shifter Culture, Classes, and Lineage 00:13:20 – Inspiration for Creating Shifters 00:20:33 – Lycanthropic Purge 00:35:44 – Changeling Identity 00:55:09 – Complete Guide to Doppelgangers 01:00:31 – More on Changeling Identities 01:06:54 – Dragonmarks Article: Changelings 01:07:22 – Think about what the character’s ability means to you? 01:07:59 – Consider That Everyone Knows Changelings Exist 01:09:25 – Oooh! A Changeling Pretending to Be a Shifter 01:09:50 – Wrap up

Nov 21, 2017

Jeremiah asks: I listened to the most recent episode on warforged. Warforged are probably my favorite D&D race ever, and I pretty much play one whenever the DM lets me. I particularly enjoyed the discussion on warforged wizards and sorcerers. I was wondering, in particular, what types of entities would a warforged warlock likely make a pact with. Kristian answers with some additional contributions from Keith and Wayne. Also, DND Beyond coincidentally posted a video of Mike Mearls discussing the Warlock’s relationship to their patrons .

Nov 14, 2017

Keith, Wayne, and Kristian discuss warforged (and how they’re not robots). Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:01:07 – Articles Warforged, Part One Warforged, Part Two Druids of Khorvaire, Part Two (Warforged Druids) Dragonmarks 11/14: Warforged and More 00:02:09 – What Are Warforged? 00:12:30 – Culture ( Dungeon Magazine #115: ‘Steel Shadows’ ) 00:20:16 – Psychology 00:30:51 – Alignment 00:38:52 – For GMs 00:39:05 – Living Reminders and Really Dangerous 00:41:44 – Extremist Lord of Blades Followers 00:43:07 – Players against Warforged 00:46:38 – Interactions with Local Communities 00:49:42 – Non-distinctive Appearance 00:54:06 – Religion and Purpose of Self 00:55:27 – Warforged Variants 01:01:42 – Ideas Regarding Warforged Souls 01:06:24 – Consider Character Origins 01:09:08 – For Players 01:10:06 – Self Exploration 01:11:50 – Classes Other Than Fighter 01:14:14 – What Do You Want As a Warforged? 01:15:38 – How Do You View Death? 01:17:55 – Do You Identify with Other Warforged? 01:19:12 – Wrapping Up

Oct 12, 2017

Keith and Kristian discuss the Aereni, Tairnadal, and Valenar elves of Eberron. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction Articles The Elves of Valenar, Part I The Elves of Valenar, Part II The Elves of Aerenal, Part I The Elves of Aerenal, Part II House Phiarlan, Part One (Deals with Aereni history) Eberron Flashback: Aereni and Tairnadal 00:01:59 – Aging, Experiences, and Culture 00:06:21 – Aereni and the Undying Court 00:07:53 – Line of Vol and Necromancy 00:10:26 – The Tairnadal and the Ancestor Spirits 00:13:56 – Culture is Their Flavor 00:15:03 – Starting Age and Training to Perfection 00:29:07 – Elven Dragonmarked Families 00:31:53 – For GMs 00:32:11 – Age and ‘Recent’ Experiences 00:35:09 – Emphasizing a Sense of Elvish Tradition 00:37:38 – Elvish Heirlooms and Legacy Items 00:41:39 – Elven Dragonmarked Houses 00:46:39 – Long-term Story Elements 00:50:01 – For Players 00:50:41 – Perfected Skill 00:52:18 – Outlook toward Physical Beauty 00:55:18 – Passing on Relics as Legacy 00:57:53 – Custom Spells As a Speciality 00:59:45 – Tairnadal and Valenar 01:01:52 – Who is Your Tairnadal Patron Ancestor? 01:09:35 – Aereni Lines 01:12:12 – Lines Associated with Undying Court 01:14:47 – Interacting with Non-elven Magic Users 01:16:03 – Outro

Sep 6, 2017

Keith and Kristian catch up at Dragon Con and discuss Keith’s panels and running Eberron for a con game or as one-shots in general.

Jul 31, 2017

Keith, Wayne, Kristian, and Scott discuss the Daelkyr and cults of the Dragon Below. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:40 – Reading: Dragonmarks: The Daelkyr and their Cults 00:01:37 – Comparing to Lovecraft and Far Realm 00:03:33 – Xoriat 00:10:51 – Random Detail: Mind Flayers 00:12:28 – Daelkyr 00:17:36 – Good Starting Villains 00:18:30 – Each Daelkyr Lord is Unique 00:20:19 – Cults of the Dragon Below are Unique 00:23:40 – Why Do People Join a Cult of the Dragon Below? 00:25:25 – For GMs 00:25:37 – Incomprehensible Plans as an Advantage for GMs 00:29:57 – Daelkyr as Hackers 00:31:07 – Masterminds That Tinker 00:32:25 – Strange Effects on Player Characters as Story Elements 00:34:20 – Granting PCs Abilities or Powers with Consequences 00:39:03 – Example Adventure Plot 00:40:19 – Gate Seals in Various Forms for Plot 00:41:33 – Create New Monsters 00:45:18 – Cults Don’t Have to Be Evil 00:46:49 – Different Domains for Each Cult 00:47:36 – Madness Mechanics in 5e and Other Systems 00:49:02 – Symbionts as Treasure 00:51:24 – Organic Docents That Attach to Living Beings 00:52:11 – For Players 00:52:23 – Presume You Don’t Know; Give GMs Breathing Room 00:53:02 – Think about Your Character’s Experience 00:55:50 – Be Comfortable with Running Away 01:00:45 – Take New Flaws or Hindrances 01:01:55 – Mutation Deck for Savage Worlds 01:02:39 – Develop the World Around Your PC; Friends, Family, Community 01:03:48 – Wrap Up

Jul 24, 2017

David Mitchell asks: Hi guys, I was wondering about how you guys use the paths of light / inspiration. Are they philosophies or religions? Do they have priests or just monks. Could you have clerics for them. How do they differ aesthetically. Are there non quori followers and would you allow a player to play a good follower of the path of inspiration or vice versa. How and when have you guys used these as faiths? Kristian discusses the two paths as philosophies and faiths.

Jul 23, 2017

Kevin asks: Can a member of the Church of the Silver Flame also be a part of other religions, like the Sovereign Host? I know Tira Miron was a paladin of Dol Arrah, but I cannot find anything that says if or how her faith was changed by it. If it didn’t, has the modern Church doctrine been changed to only allow for exclusive belief in the Silver Flame? Keith discusses the possibility of crossing faiths.

Jul 16, 2017

Brandon asks: What were the ancient religions of the Dhakaani empire (or, for that matter, the giant empire of Xen’drik)? Would they be variations on the Host and the Six, or an entirely different pantheon? Keith gives some clarifications regarding ancient religions.

Jun 28, 2017

Keith, Kristian, and Wayne discuss religion in the world of Eberron. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:40 – Readings: Dragonshards – Religion in Eberron Dragonmarks 4/11: Religion, Faith and Souls 00:03:44 – Clergy vs. Divinely Empowered 00:05:26 – Religion Is about Faith; Both Are Subjective 00:09:17 – Temples Are for Spiritual Guidance, Not Healing 00:10:48 – The Sovereign Host 00:18:24 – The Silver Flame and Other ‘Forces’ 00:24:41 – Other Faiths 00:27:30 – For GMs 00:28:06 – What Story Are You Telling? 00:30:16 – The Role of Religion in Your Campaign 00:36:15 – Just Incorporating Religions Culturally 00:38:00 – Misusing The Silver Flame 00:41:56 – For Players 00:42:23 – Faith as Source of Divine Power 00:45:17 – Evidence or Weakening of Faith 00:51:38 – Divine Power vs Non-divine Religious Characters 00:55:58 – Interacting with Established Religions 01:00:37 – Details Don’t Have to Be Developed at the Start 01:01:34 – Roles and Relationships of Religious Characters 01:03:51 – Safely Exploring Religious Issues 01:05:37 – Easter Egg 01:07:22 – Wrap up

Jun 9, 2017

Graham asks: I know you mentioned that a Siberys mark would cover the whole body, but how are are the other types of marks supposed to be? Keith argues the complexity of the mark vs. the size.

Jun 4, 2017

From David Mitchell: Hi guys just wanted to ask a question about how you guys see and use the rivalry between house phiarlan specialising in intelligence with the investigators of house Medani and how they compete with the kings lanterns the zilargo trust, the aurum etc. I love the cold war espionage plot line with the heroes working the different factions or the factions playing them but was curious to know do you have the kings lanterns subcontracting intelligence gathering through phiarlan or the twelve seeking to crush the competition. Or lanterns working with medani operatives to defeat emerald claw interests only to have them change sides another time. Scott offers a very thorough response.

May 30, 2017

Billy Rigby asks: Dragonmark Houses are powerful, the 12 have a foothold on Khorvaire but who is against them? Who’s the enemy of the 12? It seems like they have no overall threat against them other than each other and other businesses. Do they have an enemy or is it a House by House basis? Is anyone trying to end the Houses and if so, why? Wayne offers his ideas and suggestions.

May 23, 2017

Gabriel Krotkov asks: Keith mentioned that the standard houses began the War of the Mark partially to suppress the “source of power” coming from aberrant marks. What economic threat did the aberrant marks pose to the houses? I get that there must have been a popular fear of the real danger posed by aberrant marks, but if that’s the inciting factor in the War of the Mark why was the main opposition towards Aberrants coming from the Twelve? Why not a religion (Silver Flame, in the vein of the lycanthropic purge, perhaps) or the secular monarchy? Keith answers with his insights and a couple of references to sourcebooks.

May 20, 2017

Keith, Scott, and Kristian discuss using dragonmarks and the dragonmarked houses in an Eberron game. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introduction 00:00:43 – Clarifying the Scope of the Show 00:01:32 – Keith’s Articles on Dragonmarks The Dragonmarked Houses Aberrant Marks 00:03:07 – Dragonmarks and the Draconic Prophecy 00:05:01 – History of Dragonmarks 00:07:34 – Manifesting Marks 00:13:55 – More Than Just Spell-like Abilities 00:16:00 – Attempts to Duplicate Dragonmark Abilities/The Role of the Twelve 00:18:50 – The Influence of the Guilds 00:22:26 – Responsibility of Having a Dragonmark 00:24:01 – Shift of Power from Nations to Houses 00:26:56 – Aberrant Marks 00:31:13 – Pillars of the Economy 00:32:46 – House Tarkanan 00:41:35 – How GMs Can Use Dragonmarked Houses 00:41:54 – Conflicts with and among the Houses 00:43:25 – Running them as Megacorporations 00:49:20 – Events of Prophetic Significance 00:51:39 – The Mark of Death as a Plot Hook 00:53:02 – Manifesting a Mark is a Story Hook 00:58:28 – More on Aberrant Marks 01:00:52 – Potential Patrons and Enemies 01:02:29 – Biographical Backgrounds for Players 01:08:08 – Being marked is more than just the powers 01:10:42 – Feeling overwhelmed by complex intrigue 01:13:08 – Wrap up

May 8, 2017

Graham asks: How was it that Darguun and Valenar were not given to the Cyran refugees? Keith answers with a collection of reasons.

May 6, 2017

Scott chimes in with his answer to Gil’s question regarding the Neutrality of the Dragonmarked Houses during the Last War.

May 5, 2017

Gil asks: What is the expectation of a dragonmarked house and/or a nation from a dragonmarked member assigned to support a national army unit on the front line? There is usually a lot of questions/conflicts that come up when there is a mixed PC party of soldiers and dragonmarked heirs when running a Last War scene. Clearly a PC can break the rules/norm, but it will be good to understand the “company-line” as there are a lot of interest conflicting scenarios that can arise in the heat of battle. Kristian answers with an extra tidbit passed along from Keith.

Apr 20, 2017

Scott follows up on Ian’s question about “pre-war” Cyre , specifically in regards to inspirations for Cyran culture and personality.

Apr 19, 2017

Ian asks: Can you please talk about your personal inspirations for the Pre-War government and everyday life of Cyre? The Day of Mourning is such a great inspiration for PCs, but its hard to give them guidance on character histories or frame NPC motivations. Could you specifically touch on some of the royal government, military or spy organizations? Keith shares his response.

Apr 15, 2017

Gonzalo Campoverde Arce asks: Please include some minutes to talk about how the Dragonmarked Houses (beyond Cannith, Deneith and Jorasco) were involved in the Last War. Kristian offers some ideas on how those other Dragonmarked Houses would have profited from their abilities and related services during the Last War.

Apr 13, 2017

The hosts discuss The Last War and the significant impact it had on the continent of Khorvaire as well as how it might influence the characters within the world. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Opening 00:01:07 – What is The Last War ? 00:09:25 – Innovations of the Last War 00:11:14 – Shift of Power toward Dragonmarked Houses 00:18:40 – Warforged as Living Reminders 00:20:01 – Warforged Finding a Place in the World 00:22:54 – New Nations of Khorvaire 00:24:19 – Droaam Not Recognized As a Nation 00:26:29 – Why Was Darguun Recognized? 00:30:26 – Summarizing the Last War 00:36:05 – Not a Constant War 00:37:48 – The Impact on PCs 00:38:15 – Everyone Was Affected 00:39:52 – A Starting Point for Character Backgrounds 00:42:48 – Kalashtar in the Last War 00:48:52 – Aberrant Dragonmarked as Brelish Special Ops 00:49:26 – Psychological and Physical Wounds 00:54:48 – Understanding Trauma 01:02:32 – Interludes and Flashbacks 01:03:44 – ‘Sibling Rivalry’ 01:08:19 – How to Use the Last War As a GM 01:10:51 – The Mournland as a New Nation 01:11:50 – Cyran Refugees 01:13:35 – Former Enemies 01:16:14 – War-torn Landscape 01:19:02 – ‘Steel Shadows’ in Dungeon #115 01:20:57 – Keith Wishes for More Exploration of Magical Innovations 01:23:12 – Heroes of Battle (D&D v3.5) 01:24:01 – Wrap Up

Apr 11, 2017

Scott shares his thoughts and experiences regarding other systems for Eberron. Links Zadmar’s Savage Vancian Magic Dungeon World Eberron Campaign Setting Dungeon World Character Sheets for Eberron

Apr 5, 2017

Keith answers the following question: Could we get a walkthrough on how to pronounce each of the Five Nations? Karrnath seems pretty straightforward, but I’ve heard Cyre half a dozen ways (I’m partial to “sigh-err” myself) and Breland seems to have an emphasis problem (is it BREE-land or Brehl-und?)

Mar 30, 2017

From Keftiu: What systems other than D&D have you ran or suggest running Eberron in? I’ve personally done it in Fate Core and have thought about building some sort of GUMSHOE hack, but would love to hear your ideas. Kristian offers his obvious favorite and shares a few others. Links Savage Worlds Test Drive Rules Kristian’s Savage Worlds Eberron Conversion Companion 13th Age SRD Keith’s blog post on Eberron and 13th Age Advantage to Insight, Episode 25: Sharn Campaigns

Mar 29, 2017

As a means to address your questions without taking away from the time we have during episodes, but also giving you more Eberron stuff to listen to between episodes, we’re creating a separate segment called The Speaking Stone which will be included in the podcast feed. You can submit your questions related to our discussions via our Speaking Stone form , which will add it to our queue. We’ll try to answer as many as we feasibly can, and it’s entirely possible for more than one of us responding with a clip. Please note that we are specifically answering question related to topics we’ve covered in an episode. Questions related to specific rule mechanics or how to use a particular class in the setting would not qualify, nor would questions related to topics we haven’t covered yet.

Mar 17, 2017

The cast introduces themselves and discusses what defines Eberron as a setting, what it has to offer GMs, and what expectations players should have. Time Markers 00:00:00 – Introductions 00:01:05 – Keith’s Background 00:02:19 – Wayne’s Background 00:03:22 – Scott’s Background 00:04:32 – Kristian’s Background 00:06:18 – Keith Wants to Do More with Eberron 00:08:12 – Origins of Manifest Zone 00:08:58 – Scope of the Show 00:09:31 – Topic: What Makes Eberron Unique 00:14:02 – The Design of Gnomes in Eberron 00:16:27 – Exploring Real World Issues with Magic as Technology 00:17:23 – Dragonmarked House, Magical Economy, and Corporate Power 00:18:53 – Eberron as a Versatile, Cross-genre Setting 00:20:22 – Keith’s ‘Lost’ Campaign Set in Lammania 00:23:56 – Eberron as a Sandbox Setting 00:28:17 – Inspiration vs. Canon and Metaplot 00:33:27 – PCs As Most Powerful Characters in the Setting 00:39:05 – What Eberron Is Not 00:42:00 – Magic as Technology 00:43:20 – Magic as Industry 00:44:02 – Dragonmarks Are about Focus Items 00:45:15 – What Is an Eberron Campaign? 00:45:37 – Setting Player Expectations 00:46:30 – Failure Can Be a Part of the Story 00:49:21 – Moving among Cross-genre Stories 00:53:57 – Fail Forward Mechanics [Beginning of Audio Glitches] 00:55:37 – The GM Is a Story Facilitator, Not the Enemy 00:58:29 – Closing To subscribe to Manifest Zone , visit manifest.zone . (Yes, that’s the real URL.)