Eastern Expedition
Cracking Open the Atlas: Your Monthly Guide to Bearworks’ Maps
Last month I was excited to move away from the standard western fantasy themes and make my way through some locations that were novel to me and I hope exciting for you all. While my goal was far from targeting a specific culture or trying to stick to realism, it was a fun adventure in playing with some new tropes and scenes.
Villainous Foes:
Here are some suggestion for adversaries for your party to encounter. Some of my references are to D&D monsters but always feel free to borrow and take inspiration for other systems. Links to “The Monsters Know What They are Doing”, a fantastic reference for GMs.
Bardic Tunes:
What’s an adventure without some tunes to accompany smashing skulls and plundering treasure?
Eastern Village | D&D/TTRPG Music
1 Hour of Japanese Fantasy Music by Adrian von Ziegler
Dance of the Demons | 1 Hour of Japanese War Drums
Japanese Battle Music - Blades of the Warrior | Ninja and Samurai (1 hour)
Japanese Taiko Drums Vol 1 | Epic Samurai Art Of War - A Warrior Prepares | Powerful Music 1 Hour
EASTERN DOJO
Within the Dojo, an air of ancient reverence hangs like a whispering secret. The hallowed shrine, adorned with intricate carvings, watches over the serene sparring ring at its heart, where warriors clash like dancing leaves in an autumn wind. Beyond, the humble living quarters nestle, where whispers of whispered strategies and shared laughter weave a tapestry of camaraderie, binding warriors in both sword and spirit.
25x25 — Nighttime Versions of Each + Modular Rooms
Variants: Urban – Rural – Blank
EASTERN TEA HOUSE
As aromatic steam billows from delicate porcelain cups, warriors and scholars find respite in this serene oasis, where whispered secrets mingle with the fragrant embrace of tradition, etching tales of valor and wisdom into the heart of the city's vibrant history. A verdant oasis amoungst the urban sprawl, the tea house welcomes all seeking a bit of relaxation and a taste of the traditions of the land.
23x23 — Nighttime Versions of Each + Modular Rooms
Variants: Urban – Blank
RICE FIELDS
Nestled beneath the emerald canopy of a dense bamboo forest, a tranquil rice field stretches its verdant arms beside a meandering stream. The forest's hushed serenity is only interrupted by the symphony of rustling leaves and babbling waters, creating a natural sanctuary where the timeless rhythm of life flourishes. Amidst the lush greenery, this idyllic setting invites adventurers to tread softly upon its ancient paths, where whispers of hidden secrets are carried by the wind, awaiting those with the curiosity to explore.
40x4 — Nighttime Versions of Each
Variants: Rain – Camp
Where to Next?: September’s Maps
As we begin to enter the most wonderful of seasons, I wanted to get ahead of the game with producing some maps to invoke the bewitching atmosphere of fall. I have noticed that in the past people start releasing spooky and scary content in October as the night of freight approaches. But I have always found that by that points its almost too late. To give you GMs some time to prepare and plan your wicked delights I want to start now. I have some ideas already in motion that I hope can inspire and frighten. Check out the maps already out.
The plan is to continue the festivities well into October to keep the spirit alive!