In the wake of the liberation of Sliberberg and the expansion of Bergherz, the players reap their well-earned rewards. However, their victory has brought unintended consequences. As Vasrock slips from focus, the spotlight shifts to the enigmatic Fey Sovereign Fionnuala, a figure whose motives are as intricate as the Feyrealm itself. Through a dance of diplomacy, enticements, and revelations, the players must navigate alliances and obligations, culminating in a contract that binds them to the Feyrealm’s whims. The heavy roleplay elements of this adventure immerse players in the complexities of fey politics, testing not just their mettle in combat but their wits and interpersonal skills. Fionnuala’s entrance as the primary villain marks the beginning of a new arc, where the consequences of choices made in Castle Sliberberg will echo through the players’ journey

Starting the adventure

Before starting the adventure have the players roleplay a bit. Use these prompts to guide the session and encourage your players to delve into the details.

1. Describe Your New Abode:
   • How would you characterize the architecture and design of your new castle/mansion/temple? Is it imposing and fortified, adorned with intricate details, or seamlessly blending with the natural surroundings?
   • What notable features or rooms does your abode have? Perhaps there’s a grand hall, a private study, or a garden with mystical flora.
2. Settling Process:
   • How did the settling process unfold in the new kingdom? Were there any challenges or surprises along the way?
   • Did you encounter any peculiarities in the construction or magical nature of your abode that reflect the unique qualities of Märchenweltgrenze?
3. Prominent Followers’ Adjustment:
   • How are your prominent followers adjusting to their new roles and surroundings? Have they taken on specific responsibilities within the kingdom?
   • Are there any personal or political conflicts among your followers that require your attention?
4. Activities in the Last 2 Weeks:
   • What activities or events have you participated in during the past two weeks? Have there been any noteworthy celebrations, gatherings, or challenges?
   • Have you explored any parts of the kingdom, encountered interesting NPCs, or delved into the local culture?

As the sun rises over the sprawling landscape of Märchenweltgrenze, its golden rays paint the sky in hues of pink and orange. The dawn heralds the beginning of a new day, casting a warm glow over the newly founded kingdom of Mountainheart. The central valley, cradled along the shores of an inland sea, comes to life with the promise of possibilities and untold adventures. Read the following

You stand at the heart of this burgeoning realm, where the air is filled with the crisp scent of mountain breezes and the subtle fragrance of blooming wildflowers. The towering peaks that surround Mountainheart stand as silent sentinels, their snow-capped summits gleaming in the morning light.

Below, the valley unfolds with a tapestry of diverse landscapes—lush meadows, dense forests, and babbling streams converge to create a haven of natural beauty. The tranquil waters of the inland sea reflect the kaleidoscope of colors painted across the sky, mirroring the ever-changing moods of Märchenweltgrenze.

In the heart of the valley, the capital city of Sliberberg awakens. The hustle and bustle of a burgeoning kingdom come to life as citizens prepare for a new day. Market stalls open, the scent of freshly baked bread wafts through the air, and the echoes of laughter and conversation resonate through the streets.

The letter arrives

As you go about your morning routine enjoying the peace and prosperity you’ve worked to establish, the tranquility is shattered by the arrival of a breathless messenger. The thundering hooves of a fast horse herald the arrival as the rider, disheveled and panting, pulls up to your abode.

The messenger, clad in the livery of the royal family, dismounts hastily and approaches you with urgency. Sweat beads on their forehead, and their breath is rapid from the long journey.

With a bow, the messenger hands you a sealed letter bearing the unmistakable insignia of Fredrick. The wax seal is still warm, and the urgency in the air is palpable. As you break the seal and unfold the parchment, you read Fredrick’s words:

“Dearest Friends,

The defeat of Vasrock has unearthed a dire complication. . I implore you to make all due haste to Castle Sliberberg. Your strength, wisdom, and loyalty are needed once more. Time is of the essence.

With Hope and Desperation,

Fredrick”

As you finish reading the letter, the messenger anxiously awaits your response, shifting from foot to foot. The weight of Fredrick’s words hangs in the air, and the destiny of Sliberberg once again rests upon your shoulders.

You should follow this message with the following prompts. How does your character react to the urgent call from Fredrick? What thoughts and emotions stir within them as they read the letter?

Arriving at Sliberberg

As the players approach Sliberberg read the following

As you make your way towards Castle Sliberberg, the journey is filled with a sense of urgency and anticipation. The rolling hills and verdant landscapes of Märchenweltgrenze pass beneath you, a stark contrast to the shadows that loom over the once-conquered city. In the noon sun, as you crest a rise in the terrain, the imposing silhouette of Castle Sliberberg comes into view.

However, it’s not just the castle that captures your attention. Hovering near the towers and spires are three airships, an awe-inspiring sight against the backdrop of the sky. One of them, an extravagant floating palace, takes the form of a majestic galleon. Its ornate details gleam in the sunlight, and the air around it seems to hum with otherworldly energy.

These airships are draped in the distinctive livery of the Archfey Fionnuala, a name familiar to you from the days of the goblin occupation. Fionnuala, known for maintaining a diplomatic presence in Sliberberg even during those dark times, now arrives with an apparent entourage. The vibrant colors of her banner flutter in the breeze, creating a stark contrast to the scars of the recent conflict.

The big airship is the flagship of Fey Sovereign Fionnuala and her residence away from her castle. Prompt the players with the following. As you approach Castle Sliberberg and witness the trio of airships, what thoughts and emotions stir within your character?

Meeting Fionnuala

Read the following As you step into the grandeur of the Castle Sliberberg’s great hall, a mixture of anticipation and curiosity fills the air. The palace staff, attentive and efficient, usher you to the focal point of the room—the long, opulent dining table. Seated around it are Fredrick, regal and composed, and any players who have accepted his offer to become queen consorts.

However, your attention is drawn to a beautiful woman with elven features, butterfly wings and elegantly adorned in an Elizabethan costume. Her presence radiates an otherworldly grace, and she sits at the head of the table, occupying what should rightfully be King Fredrick’s chair. The great hall, usually echoing with the sounds of merriment and celebration, now carries a weight of formality. “Esteemed guests, I am Fionnuala, Fey Sovereign of the Loch Slanach, and I bid you welcome to Castle Sliberberg. I extend my gratitude for your swift response to Fredrick’s call. Today, we gather not just as allies but as architects of destiny. Please, take your place at this table, where plans are woven, and the fate of realms is decided.” 

Fionnuala, the enigmatic Fey Soverign, engages in small talk with the assembled guests, her elven features adorned with an inscrutable smile. As she delicately plucks morsels from the lavish lunch, she weaves a tapestry of casual conversation, all the while keenly observing the players’ reactions. Her elegant words carry an air of amusement as she effortlessly navigates the intricate dance of courtly banter. Fionnuala subtly sprinkles personal details about each player into the dialogue, relishing the subtle shifts in demeanor and the intrigue that blossoms as the players attempt to decipher her intentions. Her eyes sparkle with mischief, and the air is charged with an otherworldly charm, making it clear that every word and gesture is a calculated step in a dance of both diplomacy and amusement. After watching the players squirm for a bit read the following

Fionnuala’s elven eyes gleam with a subtle mischief as her lips curl into a smile, revealing a hint of wickedness. The atmosphere in the grand hall takes on a weighty seriousness as she addresses the gathered players with a voice that carries both command and allure.

“My esteemed guests, I trust you have enjoyed the dance of words and veiled conversation. Now, let us dispense with the artifice and delve into the heart of the matter. I made a pact with Vasrock, a pact that granted him rulership over the central valley and the lands south of the Hexmarches. In return, he swore everlasting fealty to me and vowed to raise an army under my banner. However, the course of fate took an unexpected turn, and Vasrock met his demise at your hands. With his fall, you, in essence, inherited his debts.

Today, I am here to collect on the first installment of those debts—the same oaths of everlasting fealty that Vasrock swore you must swear to me now

As Fionnuala addresses the players and senses the tension in the air, she continues to hold court with an air of regality. You will have to play the next bit by ear. Regardless of the players’ reactions, guide Fionnuala’s responses with the following considerations:

Emphasize the Unbreakable Nature:

• Make it clear that the magical contract is binding and inescapable. Fionnuala’s words should carry an air of finality, and the players should sense the gravity of the situation.

Express Fionnuala’s Displeasure:

• While Fionnuala enforces the contract, convey her subtle dissatisfaction with the turn of events. She might express her disapproval of Vasrock’s methods and acknowledge that, despite the circumstances, she sees potential in the player characters.

Observe Player Reactions:

• Pay attention to how each player reacts to the revelation. Some may feel trapped and frustrated, while others might seek ways to mitigate the impact of the contract. Take note of any characters who try to negotiate or challenge the terms.

Detail the Penalties for Breaking the Contract:

• Describe the severe penalties that breaking the contract would entail. This could range from magical afflictions to existential consequences. Ensure that the players understand the risks involved in attempting to defy the magical bond.

Offer a Glimpse of Fionnuala’s Intentions:

• Provide hints about Fionnuala’s motivations and her vision for the player characters. This could involve cryptic statements, revealing a larger purpose that ties into the fate of Märchenweltgrenze.

Fionnuala deals with Fredrick

Fionnuala’s gaze turns toward Fredrick, the air charged with a subtle tension as she extends the offer of fealty to him. However, his reaction is far from what she anticipated. Fredrick, silently fuming over the turn of events, flatly refuses her, boldly calling her out as a bringer of bad ends. Unfazed, Fionnuala leans forward, her eyes narrowing with a knowing glint. Read the following

Fionnuala’s eyes widen slightly at the direct refusal, a flicker of surprise crossing her elegant features.

Fionnuala: “Bad ends, you say? There are many benefits to being my vassal, Fredrick. For instance, your infatuation with my daughter is evident in the paintings scattered throughout this castle. I am willing to arrange a marriage, sealing our alliance in more ways than one.”

Fredrick’s eyes blaze with a mixture of anger and sorrow, his fists tightening.

Fredrick: “Your daughter? Those paintings are not of your daughter, but of Sophia, the love of my life. I lost her during the drowning of Mountainheart. Do not speak of her as if she were a pawn in your games.”

Fionnuala’s eyes widen with realization, and a subtle softness creeps into her features as she responds to Fredrick’s vehement revelation.

Fionnuala: “Ah, my dear Fredrick, you misunderstand. Maeve is my adoptive daughter. I found her as a mere babe, a tiny creature floating in a basket in my garden pond on the morning after the drowning of Mountainheart.”

With a casual wave of her hand, Fionnuala conjures a scrying image in the air before them. It portrays a group of young fairy women, immersed in a whimsical tea party. Among them, one dressed like a princess, bears an uncanny resemblance to Sophia. Fredrick stares at the image in disbelief.

Fredrick: “Could she speak? Could she have her voice?”

With another wave of Fionnuala’s hand, the once-silent scrying image comes alive with sound. The ambient laughter and gentle chatter of the fairy women fill the hall, and Fredrick’s jaw drops as he recognizes the unmistakable voice of Sophia, his lost love, carried across the magical scrying.

Fionnuala: “Ah, my dear Fredrick, it seems the threads of destiny weave a tapestry more intricate than we could fathom. All my life, my precious little Maeve has dreamt of a handsome young man who bears a striking resemblance to the version of you before your transformation.”

Her eyes sparkle with a mixture of fondness and determination.

Fionnuala: “Consider this, Fredrick. If you were to swear fealty to me, I would be more than willing to arrange a marriage between you and Maeve. After all, you were on the verge of becoming a Fey Sovereign before Vasrock’s capture. In my mind, that makes you the right sort of man for my beloved Maeve to marry. A union that would solidify our alliances and perhaps even mend the threads of fate that have unraveled.”

As the revelation of Fionnuala’s offer hangs in the air, the players find themselves at a crossroads. The grand hall is filled with a charged silence, and the weight of the decision ahead is palpable. Here’s a guide for navigating this player-driven encounter:

1. Player Deliberation:
   • Allow the players to discuss and deliberate on Fionnuala’s offer. Encourage them to share their characters’ thoughts, concerns, and perspectives on the matter. This is an opportunity for roleplay as the characters grapple with the implications of swearing fealty to a Fey Soverign and the prospect of Fredrick’s marriage to Maeve.
2. Explore Characters’ Personal Motivations:
   • Encourage players to delve into their characters’ personal motivations, backstories, and desires. How does each character feel about aligning themselves with an Fey Soverign, and what are their thoughts on Fredrick’s potential marriage to Maeve?
3. Address Concerns and Questions:
   • Be prepared to address any concerns or questions the players may have. This could range from the potential consequences of swearing fealty to Fionnuala to the impact of a union between Fredrick and Maeve. Clarify details and provide information that helps the players make informed decisions.
4. Fionnuala’s Interjections:
   • Throughout the player deliberation, Fionnuala may interject with subtle remarks, offering insights or attempting to address concerns. Her words should carry an air of persuasion and diplomacy.
5. Moment of Decision:
   • Once the players have had ample time to discuss, ask each player to declare whether their character accepts or rejects Fionnuala’s offer. This will provide a sense of the characters’ individual stances on the matter.
6. Fredrick’s Decision:
   • Regardless of the players’ decisions, narrate that Fredrick, after considering the perspectives shared, stands and, with a solemn gaze, declares his acceptance of Fionnuala’s offer. The air in the hall seems to shift, and Fionnuala’s enigmatic smile deepens, as if a piece of a larger plan has fallen into place.

Fionnuala deals with the players

Fionnuala will turn her attention toward the players and try to ensnare them in further contracts. As Fionnuala extends her offer to the player characters, guide the encounter with the following considerations:

1. Knowledge of Backstories:
   • Fionnuala possesses an intricate knowledge of the player characters’ backstories and personal goals. She will use this information to tailor her enticements, emphasizing how her assistance can directly address their desires and challenges.
2. Veiled Promises:
   • Encourage Fionnuala to make veiled promises of assistance without divulging the full extent of the potential consequences. This keeps an air of mystery and ensures the players weigh their choices carefully.
3. Limited Wishes:
   • Highlight Fionnuala’s ability to grant a limited number of wishes per day. This serves as a powerful incentive for the players to consider her offer seriously, as the fulfillment of wishes is a rare and coveted ability.
4. Agents in the Feyrealm:
   • Describe Fionnuala’s vast network of agents in the Feyrealm, emphasizing that her reach extends far beyond the mortal realm. This adds a layer of intrigue and suggests the players are dealing with a figure of great influence.
5. Tailoring Offers to Goals:
   • Fionnuala should tailor her offers to align with the personal goals and aspirations of each player’s character. Whether it’s the resolution of a personal vendetta, the attainment of knowledge, or the fulfillment of a long-held dream, Fionnuala’s enticements should address these desires.
6. Consequences of Acceptance:
   • Remind players that accepting Fionnuala’s offers may come with unforeseen consequences. While the immediate benefits are enticing, the Feyrealm is known for its capricious nature, and bargains made with archfey often have repercussions that echo across time.
7. Individual Player Interactions:
   • Allow each player character to engage with Fionnuala individually. This provides a moment for personal roleplay, allowing players to express their characters’ thoughts, reservations, and desires in response to Fionnuala’s propositions.
8. Influence on the Plot:
   • Consider how the players’ choices will influence the overall plot and the future direction of the campaign. Fionnuala’s enticements may introduce new narrative threads or alter existing ones based on the players’ decisions.

Concluding the negotiations

Read the following after Fionnuala concludes trying to tempt the players into further deals

As Fionnuala concludes her enticements and the players contemplate their decisions, she shifts the tone of the conversation. Her demeanor transforms into that of a stern yet patient authority figure addressing young children with a hint of smuggness. She begins to lay out ground rules for their newly formed relationship.

“Now, my dear vassals,” Fionnuala’s voice takes on a measured tone, akin to a parent guiding wayward children. “There are a few simple rules to abide by in this newfound alliance. First and foremost, you are not to interact with any other members of the Summer Court. It has come to my attention that you may have sought counsel from two individuals – that old nursemaid and that waif of a girl apprenticed to the court pastry chef. I’ll have none of that. Your allegiance is to me alone.”

Her eyes pierce through the air as she continues, “Secondly, I must insist that you refrain from sabotaging, whether knowingly or unknowingly, any of my ongoing schemes. Cooperation is key, and I expect you to play your part without unintended interference. After all, a harmonious dance is much more pleasant than a discordant cacophony, wouldn’t you agree?”

As Fredrick absorbs these directives, Fionnuala introduces another surprising element, “Lastly, I anticipate that you will play well with my other vassal in the region, Gisela the Archfey. Ah, the revelation surprises you, Fredrick? Of course, dear Fredrick, Gisela has been in my service for 500 years. I bestowed upon her the ritual that tore open the veil between the valley and the Feyrealm. It’s only fitting that you collaborate, for the threads of fate have intricately woven your destinies together.”

Fionnuala’s smile, though serene, carries an undercurrent of authority. The ground rules are set, and the players find themselves navigating a complex dance of allegiances and obligations in the Feyrealm’s intricate tapestry.

With her ground rules firmly established, Fionnuala rises gracefully from her chair, the intricate folds of her Elizabethan gown cascading around her. She bids the king and the players to accompany her to the battlements. As they ascend, the grandeur of Castle Sliberberg unfolds before them. The cool breeze carries a hint of enchantment, setting the stage for the departure.

As Fionnuala bids her farewell, the airship’s engines hum to life, and the grandeur of her departure leaves a lingering aura of mystery. With a graceful wave, she steps aboard the palatial airship, the ornate galleon-like vessel soaring into the sky.

Fionnuala: “Fear not, my dear vassals, for our paths will cross again soon. I shall send Maeve to join you at Castle Sliberberg, and we shall continue our dance in the unfolding tapestry of destiny. Until then, play well, my lovelies.”

The rhythmic beat of the airship’s engines fades into the distance, and the grand hall is once again filled with the echoes of silence. Fredrick, still grappling with the recent revelations, quips about the ongoing redecoration of the castle.

Fredrick: “We are still in the course of redecorating, after all.”

As the players stand in the now somewhat vacant great hall, the weight of decisions made and the unknown future looms ahead. This is an opportune moment for you as the Dungeon Master to encourage the players to engage in discussion.

Encouragement for the Players: As the airship dwindles in the distance, the vast halls of Castle Sliberberg lay open before you. The lingering presence of Fionnuala’s influence and the pending arrival of a new ambassador present intriguing possibilities. What will you make of this moment?

An introduction and general overview to the second arch.

In the expansive and player-driven second arc of our campaign, among the fey courts, the stage is set for a sandbox adventure, where the narrative is shaped by the characters’ choices, ambitions, and the consequences of their interactions in the world of Märchenweltgrenze. The players find themselves presented with three overarching goals, each weaving into the intricate tapestry of their journey:

1. Find a Way Out of the Contract:

• The players are bound by a magical contract forged in the Feyrealm, tying them to the whims of the enigmatic Archfey Fionnuala. To break free from these mystical chains, they must embark on a quest for knowledge, seeking ancient tomes, wise sages, or forgotten rituals scattered across the realms. The journey may take them through haunted libraries, hidden sanctuaries, or encounters with beings with knowledge of ancient fey pacts.

2. Build the Army for Fionnuala:

• Fionnuala’s demand for an army requires the players to navigate the complex landscape of recruitment, diplomacy, and conquest. They may forge alliances with neighboring factions, delve into ancient ruins to uncover forgotten constructs or navigate the political intricacies of fey courts to enlist powerful allies. The building of this army could involve a series of mini-quests, each contributing to the growth and strength of their forces.

3. Expand the Kingdom:

• To support their military endeavors and create a power base capable of challenging Fionnuala’s influence, the players must expand their kingdom. This involves settling new territories, establishing trade routes, and dealing with the myriad challenges that come with governance. The expansion could lead to the exploration of uncharted lands, negotiation with rival factions, or the unearthing of ancient artifacts that hold the key to unlocking the kingdom’s full potential.

Goal 1: Finding a Way Out of the Contract

A. Divine Intervention and the Wish Spell:

• Breaking the magical bonds of Fionnuala’s contract is no small feat. The players learn that only divine intervention or the potent Wish spell can sever these mystical ties. However, these solutions come with a significant caveat – each act only breaks one character’s contractual bonds.

B. Researching Fey Contracts:

• The players delve into the ancient tomes, libraries, and mystical scholars of Märchenweltgrenze to unravel the secrets of fey contracts. This involves quests to recover lost texts, decipher cryptic glyphs, and consult with reclusive sages who hold the key to understanding the intricate nature of such pacts.

C. Complicated Ties to Important NPCs:

• Fionnuala’s influence extends beyond the player characters; she has forged contracts with significant NPCs in their lives. For instance, Talia, the newborn dragon that the players might have adopted in Chapter 1, becomes a pawn in this fey game. The players discover that Fionnuala, in the guise of a fairy godmother, approaches Talia and convinces her to make a wish to become the adopted daughter of one of the players. This wish transforms Talia into a 4-month-old infant of the same race as her adoptive mother. As for what she gave up that is up to you to decide

D. The Clock is Ticking:

• As the players delve into the research and seek to break the contracts, the shadow of time looms overhead. Fionnuala has a master plan and has given the players a time limit on when she comes to collect the debt.

E. Divine Guidance:

• Seeking guidance from deities or powerful celestial entities becomes a central element of the quest. Temples, sacred groves, and ancient shrines may hold the key to connecting with beings who can offer insight, guidance, and perhaps a divine intervention to sever the fey bonds.

F. Confrontations and Revelations:

• Along the way, the players may encounter individuals who have tangled with Fionnuala in the past, surviving or succumbing to her whims. These encounters provide valuable insights, warnings, and potential alliances, contributing to the unfolding narrative.

I. Player-Driven Solutions:

• Encourage players to develop and explore their solutions to the conundrum. Whether through alliances with powerful entities, forging new pacts, or uncovering ancient rituals, the journey to break the fey contracts should be as diverse and unique as the characters themselves.

Potential Adventure ideas

1. The Lost Library of Sylvan Wisdom:

• The players learn of an ancient library hidden deep within the Feyrealm, known for its wealth of knowledge on fey contracts. To access this library, they must navigate through enchanted forests, overcome trials set by elusive guardians, and decipher cryptic clues to unveil the library’s location.

2. The Oracle of Whispers:

• Legends speak of an oracle with the ability to unveil hidden truths in the Feyrealm. The players embark on a pilgrimage to find this enigmatic seer, braving treacherous landscapes and solving riddles to gain an audience. The oracle may provide cryptic insights, guiding the players toward the means to break their contracts.

3. Dreams of the Eldertree:

• An Eldertree in the heart of the Feyrealm is said to hold the collective dreams of the fey. The players enter a dreamscape, encountering symbolic representations of their contracts and allies. Navigating this surreal realm, they must confront their deepest fears and desires to unlock the wisdom hidden within the Eldertree.

4. A Pact with the Patron:

• A powerful archfey patron offers assistance in breaking the contracts but requires the players to enter into a new pact with them. This pact may involve fulfilling a series of quests on behalf of the patron, establishing a shrine in their honor, or forging an alliance with another fey power.

5. Temporal Anomalies:

• The players discover temporal anomalies scattered across Märchenweltgrenze. These anomalies provide glimpses into alternate timelines where their contracts were never formed. Navigating these anomalies allows the players to gather insights, clues, and perhaps even artifacts that can alter the course of their destinies.

Goal 2: Build the Army for Fionnuala

A. Kingdom Expansion:

• Mountainheart, nestled between the mountains and the feysea, faces the challenge of limited space for army recruitment. To fulfill Fionnuala’s demand, the players must explore options for kingdom expansion. This involves venturing into uncharted territories, negotiating with neighboring factions for land, and overcoming the hurdles of settling in diverse environments.

B. Mercenary Recruitment:

• The players, having liberated Sliberberg, already command the loyalty of several mercenary companies. Expanding this force requires recruiting more mercenaries from distant lands. The players embark on quests to seek out renowned mercenaries, proving their worth and convincing these formidable warriors to join their cause.

C. Forging Alliances Without Troops:

• While traditional alliances are not an option, the players can still seek political support and resources from neighboring regions. Diplomacy becomes a key aspect of their strategy as they negotiate trade agreements, secure access to valuable resources, and build a network of political allies who indirectly contribute to their military efforts.

D. Quest for Unconventional Forces:

• To bolster their ranks, the players delve into the lore of Märchenweltgrenze to discover unconventional and mythical forces. This could involve recruiting enchanted beings, awakening dormant constructs, or even forging pacts with ancient spirits who lend their supernatural abilities to the growing army.

E. Subjugating Hostile Factions:

• As an alternative to alliances, the players may choose a more aggressive approach by subjugating hostile factions that resist expansion. Conquering neighboring territories requires careful planning, strategic warfare, and managing the aftermath of such conquests to maintain control over the newly acquired lands.

F. Magical Augmentation:

• Seeking the assistance of skilled mages and enchanters, the players explore magical means to augment their army. This could involve imbuing soldiers with enhanced strength, summoning magical constructs, or tapping into ley lines to infuse the troops with arcane energies that make them more formidable on the battlefield.

G. Recruitment Challenges:

• Building an army is not without its challenges. The players must navigate recruitment challenges, such as addressing dissent among the ranks, overcoming cultural differences between mercenaries, and managing the logistics of a diverse force. Each challenge provides an opportunity for the players to showcase their leadership skills.

H. The Price of Power:

• As the players amass power and expand their kingdom, they must grapple with the moral and ethical consequences of their actions. Choices made in the pursuit of military strength may impact the perception of Bergherz in the eyes of neighboring realms, potentially leading to strained relationships or outright hostilities.

I. Temporal Constraints:

• Fionnuala’s deadline of eight years adds an element of urgency to the players’ endeavors. They must balance the need for swift expansion with the careful management of resources and alliances, making strategic decisions that maximize the growth of their army within the given timeframe.

J. Managing Resources:

• Expanding the kingdom requires the efficient management of resources. The players must allocate funds for recruitment, infrastructure development, and maintaining the loyalty of their growing army. Balancing these aspects becomes crucial for sustaining the military campaign.

Adventure Ideas for Building the Army

1. The Uncharted Frontier:

• The players venture into uncharted territories surrounding Bergherz to explore potential lands for expansion. They face the challenges of navigating through dense forests, treacherous mountains, and unexplored wilderness. The quest involves mapping the region, dealing with local wildlife, and establishing the groundwork for future settlements.

2. The Mercenary Conclave:

• A gathering of renowned mercenary companies takes place in a neutral territory. The players must attend and participate in competitions, negotiations, and trials to earn the trust and loyalty of these skilled warriors. Success in these challenges ensures the recruitment of elite mercenaries for their growing army.

3. Diplomatic Maneuvers:

• In the absence of traditional alliances, the players engage in diplomatic missions to secure political support from neighboring regions. They attend diplomatic summits, negotiate trade agreements, and navigate the delicate dance of diplomacy to gain access to resources, funds, and indirect support for their military endeavors.

4. The Enchanted Legion:

• Legends speak of an ancient order of enchanted beings residing in a hidden realm. The players embark on a quest to locate this realm, overcoming magical barriers and solving puzzles to gain the allegiance of these mythical beings. The enchanted legion brings unique magical abilities to the growing army.

5. Subjugation Campaign:

• Faced with the resistance of rival factions, the players strategize a military campaign to subjugate hostile territories. They must plan sieges, engage in guerrilla warfare, and manage the aftermath of conquests to maintain control over the newly acquired lands. The choices made in this campaign influenced the loyalty of the conquered factions.

6. Magical Augmentation Trials:

• Seeking the assistance of renowned mages, the players organize a series of trials to identify candidates for magical augmentation within their army. The trials involve testing candidates for resilience, adaptability to magical enhancements, and ethical considerations. Successful candidates undergo magical transformations, becoming a formidable force on the battlefield.

7. Cultural Exchange:

• To manage the diversity among their troops, the players organize a cultural exchange program. This involves fostering understanding and camaraderie among soldiers from different backgrounds. The players must navigate cultural differences, address potential conflicts, and promote unity within their growing army.

8. Resource Scarcity Crisis:

• A crisis unfolds as resources become scarce due to rapid expansion. The players must manage resource allocation, make difficult decisions on prioritizing needs, and navigate the repercussions of shortages within their kingdom. This crisis tests their leadership skills and forces them to seek creative solutions to sustain their military campaign.

9. Political Intrigues and Alliances:

• Political intrigue unfolds as the players navigate the delicate balance of alliances among neighboring regions. They attend political events, decipher hidden agendas, and engage in espionage to gather intelligence. The choices made in these political maneuvers influence the support or opposition they face in their quest to build Fionnuala’s army.

Goal 3: Expand the Kingdom and Form a Fey domains

A. Fredrick’s Ascension:

• As Fredrick the Beast approaches his transformation into a Fey Sovereign, the players seize the opportunity to expand his influence. His imminent ascension grants him the power to form a fey domain, a realm shaped by his ideals and charisma. The players must guide Fredrick in utilizing this power to its fullest potential.

B. Settler Recruitment:

• The players embark on a recruitment campaign to attract settlers from neighboring regions and distant lands. They organize events, establish recruitment centers, and showcase the benefits of living in the Domain . The recent goblin invasion, coupled with Fredrick’s heroic reputation, serves as a compelling motivation for settlers to join.

C. Diplomatic Endeavors:

• Diplomacy becomes a key tool in expanding the kingdom. The players engage in negotiations with neighboring factions, forging alliances, and securing non-aggression pacts. The promise of shared prosperity within the Domain encourages diplomatic cooperation, fostering a network of friendly relations.

D. Enchanted Lands Exploration:

• The players explore enchanted lands within Märchenweltgrenze, seeking to incorporate these mystical territories into Fredrick’s Domain of Delight. These lands may contain magical resources, hidden realms, or mythical creatures that can contribute to the prosperity and enchantment of the expanding kingdom.

E. Goblin Reintegration Program:

• In the aftermath of the goblin invasion, the players initiate a program to reintegrate the goblin army into the expanding kingdom. This involves building trust, addressing past conflicts, and showcasing the benefits of peaceful coexistence. The goblins can contribute unique skills and perspectives to the growing society.

F. Magical Infrastructure Development:

• As settlers join the kingdom, the players focus on developing magical infrastructure that aligns with the archfey nature of the Domain of Delight. This includes enchanting roads, creating ley line connections, and establishing mystical landmarks that enhance the overall magical aura of the expanding realm.

G. Festivals and Celebrations:

• To solidify the sense of community and attract more settlers, the players organize vibrant festivals and celebrations. These events showcase the joy and enchantment within the Domain of Delight, becoming opportunities to highlight the kingdom’s cultural richness and draw in new residents.

Adventure Ideas for Expanding the Kingdom and Forming the Domain of Delight

1. The Fey town Diplomacy:

• The players embark on a diplomatic mission to establish relations with independent petty kingdoms and chiefdoms scattered throughout Märchenweltgrenze. Each town presents unique challenges, requiring the players to understand fey customs, negotiate with whimsical leaders, and solve local disputes. Successful diplomacy leads to the integration of these fey communities into the expanding Domain of Delight.

2. Claiming Uncharted Territories:

• Unclaimed lands with untapped magical resources beckon the players. They lead expeditions into these uncharted territories, facing challenges from mythical creatures, solving magical puzzles, and establishing outposts to claim and integrate these lands into the Domain of Delight.

4. Mystical Resource Expedition:

• A quest unfolds to discover and harness mystical resources from the heart of Märchenweltgrenze. The players lead an expedition, facing challenges posed by magical creatures guarding these resources. The acquired mystical essence becomes a valuable asset, enhancing the magical infrastructure and prosperity of the expanding Domain of Delight.

5. Port Eudoxia: A Tale of Two Empires:

• With the fall of the Odessian Empire, the players find themselves in a geopolitical puzzle. They navigate the shifting power dynamics between the ascendant empire and neighboring regions, making strategic decisions that influence the fate of Port Eudoxia. The players may choose to establish diplomatic ties, resist imperial influence, or explore covert operations to protect the interests of the Domain of Delight.

6. Enchanted Borderlands Exploration:

• The players delve into the enchanted borderlands, a region teeming with magical anomalies and elusive creatures. They must navigate through shifting realities, solve magical puzzles, and make alliances with beings residing on the border between the mortal realm and the Feyrealm. Successfully integrating these borderlands into the expanding kingdom enhances the Domain of Delight’s magical influence.

The wildcards

Now, let’s unveil the intricate roles of several wildcards in this unfolding drama. As the players delve deeper into the complex web of fey politics and alliances, the veils surrounding certain enigmatic figures begin to lift.

Agatha Ironraisin and Tansy Fleetfoot:

• The seemingly ordinary figures of Agatha Ironraisin and Tansy Fleetfoot, who aided the players in their triumph over Vasrock, are revealed to be more than just witches. They are, in fact, high fey, minor members of the summer court. Their mastery of the magical arts and intimate knowledge of the Feyrealm make them invaluable allies for the players. However, Fionnuala’s watchful gaze poses a significant obstacle, as she monitors the player’s every move with a hawk-like intensity. Unbeknownst to the players, Maeve,

Maeve, the Ambitious Daughter:

• Maeve, possessing the same devious cunning as her mother Fionnuala, stands as the ambassador sent by Fionnuala. Her ambitions extend beyond diplomatic duties, harboring a desire to forge her own kingdom with Fredrick at her side. Her loyalty to Fionnuala is at the beginning unwavering, she has spoiled Maeve rotten all her life , presenting a formidable challenge for the players. However, Maeve is not a mere pawn in her mother’s game; she is a woman with her own desires and ambitions. Through clever negotiation and persuasion, the players may find opportunities to sway Maeve to their cause, turning an adversary into a potential ally.

Gisela, the Fey Enchantress:

• Gisela, ruler of the Hexmarches to the north of Bergherz, harbors a deep-seated animosity towards Fredrick, rooted in an ancient grudge involving a broken blood oath with Edward, Fredrick’s father. The long centuries since her ascension to the rank of Fey Sovereign along with her burning hatred of Fredrick and Bergherz has driven her quite mad. Her intent is clear — the destruction of Fredrick, Bergherz, and the players. Gisela’s formidable magical prowess and influence over the Hexmarches make her a formidable adversary. The players must navigate the treacherous waters of this longstanding feud.

Tips for the Dungeon Master (DM):

• Player-Driven Narrative: Embrace the sandbox nature of this arc, allowing players to take the lead in pursuing their goals. Encourage them to explore the world, interact with NPCs, and shape the narrative through their decisions.
• Dynamic NPCs and Factions: Populate the world with vibrant and dynamic NPCs and factions. These entities can serve as allies, rivals, or potential threats, adding depth and complexity to the players’ interactions.
• Consequences of Choices: Ensure that the players’ decisions have tangible consequences. The alliances they form, the territories they conquer, and the deals they make should impact the world around them, creating a living, evolving narrative.
• Discoverable Lore: Scatter lore and hints about breaking magical contracts throughout the campaign world. This encourages exploration and research as players seek to unravel the mysteries of their predicament.
• Event Triggers: Introduce events that trigger based on the players’ progress, adding a dynamic element to the sandbox. These events could include political shifts, rival factions making moves or ancient prophecies unfolding.
• Personal Quests: Weave in personal quests for each player that ties into the overarching goals. This not only adds depth to individual character stories but also enhances the overall narrative.
• Flexible Story Structure: Embrace the fluidity of the narrative structure. Be prepared to adapt to the player’s choices and actions, allowing the story to evolve organically based on their agency.
• Balance of Challenges: Strike a balance between challenging encounters, diplomatic negotiations, and exploration. This ensures a diverse and engaging experience for the players.

In this expansive and uncharted territory, the players are the architects of their destiny. As they navigate the complexities of the fey-infused realm, the choices they make will reverberate through the campaign, shaping the future of Märchenweltgrenze