Tales from the Stinky Dragon Episode: C03 - Ep. 01 - Mission Through Middrus - Zero Hour
Release Date: October 2, 2024
Host: Gustavo Serola (Dungeon Master)
Participants: Blaine Gibson (Tolv), Barbara Dunkelman (Doug Boone), John Risinger (Natty Wonder), Chris Damaris (Gunther)

Introduction and Character Setup

Timestamp: [03:23]

The episode kicks off with Gustavo Serola, the Dungeon Master, introducing the campaign's unique twist. He asks each player to briefly describe their characters, emphasizing details like name, race, class, and physical appearance to build a vivid "theater of the mind."

Notable Quote:

Gustavo Serola [03:23]: "I want every player to briefly describe their characters... just really help us build that theater of the mind."

Character Introductions

Timestamp: [05:02]

Each player introduces their character with enthusiasm and creative flair:

• Barbara Dunkelman as Doug Boone
  A bugbear artificer, Doug is depicted as a tall, somewhat chubby character with a kind face, sporting dark brown hair with light patches. His attire includes brown pants, an off-white long sleeve shirt, a teal and maroon vest, and spikes on his leather armor.

  Notable Quote:

  Barbara Dunkelman [05:10]: "Hello, everyone. I'm Barbara Dunkelman... Doug Boone is a bugbear artificer... innocent and fluffy side."

• Blaine Gibson as Tolv
  Tolv is an orc barbarian inspired by Viking aesthetics, adorned in brown leathers with colors reminiscent of the Aurora Borealis. He wields a sword and shield, exuding a Viking sailor vibe.

  Notable Quote:

  Blaine Gibson [07:01]: "I'm going to be playing Tolv... think about like a traditional Viking... deep blues and greens."

• John Risinger as Natty Wonder
  A drow warlock who embraces fluid pronouns and loves drag, Natty sports a flamboyant outfit complete with a giant blonde wig, high-waisted jeans with rhinestones, white boots, and a gingham shirt.

  Notable Quote:

  Blaine Gibson [13:07]: "Natty's catchphrase is, 'Butter my biscuit, it'll be fine.'"

• Chris Damaris as Gunther
  Gunther is a croque folk fighter, a frog humanoid standing at about 2 feet tall, equipped with a sword and shield.

Setting the Scene

Timestamp: [15:07]

Gustavo Serola delves into the rich lore of Midris, describing a catastrophic event where Infernus, a fiendish overlord, slain the Bright One, leading to an age of darkness. The Pale One, the God of the Moon, temporarily restores light but seals the celestial gates to prevent further tragedies. Infernus now rallies an army to breach these gates, setting the stage for the adventurers' mission.

Notable Quote:

Gustavo Serola [15:07]: "But we aren't the only ones. For the past millennia, the Sun Slayer herself, Infernus, has amassed an army of devils and demons to storm the gates of Hyra."

The Mission Begins

Timestamp: [17:41]

The adventurers find themselves in a vast, craggy cavern illuminated by a molten river of lava. A bog gnome military sergeant thrusts items into their hands—a rope, torch, tinderbox, and water skin—and urges them into action with a sense of urgency.

GM's Narrative:

Gustavo Serola [19:03]: "You're in a vast, craggy cavern... Your gaze darts away from the lava to a short, mossy, stocky bog gnome... push you towards the river of lava."

Initial Encounters and Challenges

Timestamp: [19:27]

The team faces Yundarian minions and must navigate the perilous lava river. Players perform various actions, including:

• Natty's Resourcefulness: Crafting a lasso from the rope to capture an Undarian minion.

  Notable Quote:

  Blaine Gibson [25:02]: "I'd expect nothing less from you, cowgirl."

• Tolv's Tactical Maneuvers: Attempting to distract enemies with a lit torch to safely cross the lava.

  Notable Quote:

  Blaine Gibson [25:44]: "I'm gonna need you to hold your britches for a second, sir. I'm on my way."

• Gunther's Agile Attempts: Utilizing his croque folk agility to investigate and fight.

Rising Tension and Dramatic Escalation

Timestamp: [34:09]

As the lava continues to rise, the team confronts Infernus directly. The narrative intensifies with attacks from Infernus and the Yundarian minions, leading to critical moments:

• Gunther's Heroic Yet Unsuccessful Strike: Attempts to stab an Undarian but misses.

  Notable Quote:

  Blaine Gibson [35:02]: "I love Doug. This is great. Doug, you're in the wrong career."

• Infernus's Ferocity: Described in vivid detail, Infernus wreaks havoc, injuring players and pushing the narrative towards potential character deaths.

  Notable Quote:

  Gustavo Serola [36:17]: "Infernus is a devilish humanoid with bloodshot red skin... her eyes are a deep blackness that matches only her blade of nether flames."

• Critical Failures and Roleplaying Moments: Characters like Tolv and Gunther face severe challenges, with players expressing emotions and reactions to their characters' predicaments.

Climactic Confrontations and Character Demises

Timestamp: [55:02]

The episode reaches its climax as the players engage directly with Infernus and attempt to rescue their comrades. Despite valiant efforts, significant character losses occur:

• Gunther's Demise: Falls victim to Infernus's attacks after a series of unsuccessful attempts to strike.

  Notable Quote:

  Blaine Gibson [52:01]: "I guess today I am. You're shouting at me, dude."

• Natty's Sacrifice and Rescue: Despite severe damage from rising lava, Natty's quick thinking and actions play a crucial role in attempting to save Gunther.

  Notable Quote:

  Barbara Dunkelman [59:08]: "I feel so bad."

Resolution and Cliffhanger

Timestamp: [72:45]

After the intense battle, Gustavo wraps up the mission with the remaining characters facing repercussions of their actions. Sergeant Steel Eye evaluates their performance, setting the stage for future challenges and character development.

Notable Quote:

Gustavo Serola [73:49]: "Welcome to Mortalion Boot Camp B Team. Or should I say brutality?"

Conclusion and Tease for Next Episode

Timestamp: [73:49]

The episode concludes with a promise of continued adventures and deeper explorations into character dynamics and the overarching narrative.

Notable Quote:

Gustavo Serola [73:49]: "That's it for this episode. Find out what happens to brutality in the next episode of Tales from the Stinky Dragon."

Key Highlights and Insights

• Dynamic Character Interactions: The episode showcases strong roleplaying elements, with players effectively bringing their characters to life through distinct voices and personalities.

• Engaging Storytelling: Gustavo's narration immerses listeners in the dark fantasy world of Midris, blending lore seamlessly with the players' actions.

• High-Stakes Gameplay: The mission's tension escalates with the rising lava and the formidable presence of Infernus, culminating in significant character losses that heighten the narrative stakes.

• Humorous and Creative Moments: Despite the grim setting, moments of humor and creativity, such as Natty's crafting ingenuity and Blaine's playful character comments, provide a balanced and entertaining experience.

• Teasing Future Developments: The conclusion hints at further adventures and character growth, enticing listeners to return for subsequent episodes.

Notable Quotes with Timestamps

• Gustavo Serola [03:23]: "I want every player to briefly describe their characters... just really help us build that theater of the mind."

• Barbara Dunkelman [05:10]: "Hello, everyone. I'm Barbara Dunkelman... Doug Boone is a bugbear artificer... innocent and fluffy side."

• Blaine Gibson [07:01]: "I'm going to be playing Tolv... think about like a traditional Viking... deep blues and greens."

• Blaine Gibson [25:44]: "I'm gonna need you to hold your britches for a second, sir. I'm on my way."

• Gustavo Serola [36:17]: "Infernus is a devilish humanoid with bloodshot red skin... her eyes are a deep blackness that matches only her blade of nether flames."

• Barbara Dunkelman [59:08]: "I feel so bad."

• Gustavo Serola [73:49]: "Welcome to Mortalion Boot Camp B Team. Or should I say brutality?"

Final Thoughts

"Mission Through Middrus - Zero Hour" delivers a captivating blend of intense gameplay, rich storytelling, and engaging character development. The episode masterfully balances the high stakes of the mission with moments of levity, ensuring an enjoyable experience for both seasoned D&D enthusiasts and newcomers alike. As the adventurers face perilous challenges and personal losses, listeners are left eagerly anticipating the unfolding saga in future episodes.

For those new to Tales from the Stinky Dragon, this episode serves as a thrilling introduction to the podcast's dynamic and entertaining approach to Dungeons & Dragons storytelling.

Stay tuned for more adventures from Stinky Dragon's fearless (and foolish) friends!