Monday, January 10, 2022

Strahd Loves, Man Kills Issue 3

Dolorous Exhumation Press has released a third issue for their Ravenloft fanzine, Strahd Loves, Man Kills. Most of the features from issue 1 and issue 2 return. 

Lurid Locations presents a reimagining of Sanguinia that focuses on gothic fear and the oppressive nature of feudalism. The realm has two Darklords, Count Mangus von Karlock (vampiric knight) and Countess Yulia Skarnstein (vampire cult leader and worshiper of Malcanthet, Demon Queen of Succubi). Both are presented with followers and roleplaying tips. Locations and info on the domain's residents are also included. Finally there are 1d8 adventure hooks

Baleful Backgrounds presents a new character background for 5e. The Penny Dreadful Writer is the author of horrific tales of monsters, mayhem, and murder. This is a fun background and there's a fun table to help determine the title of the character's most notable work. 

Seeds of Evil presents two adventure seeds related to Barovia. The first is pretty epic... Strahd vs Dracula! It makes sense really. What if the Mists pull Transylvania from Gothic Earth? If that happened Strahd and Dracula would have to have a faceoff. The second idea is The Resurrection of Strahd. I like this idea because it continues and twists the classic. Also it borrows ideas from Castlevania, particularly Symphony of the Night. The send includes a d8 chart to figure out who the conspirator in the Devil Strahd's resurrection is. 


Portraits of the Damned is details two witchhunters that have been twisted by their fanaticism. Reverend Krast has endured many hardships and has become cold, seeing the world as a place that needs to be cleansed of witchcraft. He is inspired by Reverend Trask from Dark Shadows. Sister Vulcra was a nun from a militant sect who was reportedly slain by devils, but arose reborn three days later. She wears armor to hide her beauty (and hates those that notice it). She was inspired by Saint Celestine and the Battle Sisters from Warhammer 40K.

Cryptic Alliances
 discusses three factions. The Barbarez Legion are a mercenary band of gnolls that slaughter for in the honor of their demon lord, Yeenoghu. The Crucifuge are orders that seek to combine traditional necromancy demonic forces, and other magic to create new types of undead to prowl the realms.

Tragic Heroes presents four character concepts and the best race/class combination to make them. The Disciple of Slaughter is a normal personal haunted by the spirit of a convicted murderer who was killed and for their crimes. This spirit empowers them to slaughter with reckless abandon. The Evicerant learns to separate their physical and astral selves and use both to battle enemies. The Geist Caller is a divine agent who calls upon the spirits of the dead for knowledge. Sacral Custodians protect sacred burial grounds and can call upon the blessed dead for aid.

Random Ruin presents a d100 chart of dark secrets for players. These can add a nice, dark edge to characters.

Forbidden Tomes gives a list of dark fantasy literature for your inspiration

I've said it before and I will continue saying it. I love this zine. I ordered a copy as soon as I got the email that said it was available. 

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