Hodgepocalypse Ontario: A Thousand Fragments - Part 2 - Locations of Note

Ark Two: 

Consisting of a survivalist that buried 42 buses underground just outside of Toronto to act as a bunker for when the bombs fell.  They are now a generational compound based around a survivalist's interpretation of navy command.

The Bruce Power Site: 

 

On the shores of Lake Huron in Tiverton, Ontario, making it one of the largest nuclear power facilities in the world.

The CBC Film Archive:  

This near-mythical place is one of the greatest barred vaults.  Led by Johnny and Frank, two elves that have kept the radio going for hundreds of years. Nobody is quite sure where it is.  It is a vast depository of knowledge, but nobody is quite sure where it is due to extreme secrecy.

Custom House:  

 

Long considered one of the most haunted houses in Hamilton, it still stands.  A children's horror show once was shot here, where the classic horror movie monsters were replaced by automatons.  They still patrol the halls.

Crystal Wastes of Sudbury: 

 

Once a mining hub, Sudbury is now adorned with crystalline structures, a testament to the magical fallout's transformative touch.

The Diefenbunker: 

 

A former Canadian military bunker located in the rural farming community of Carp, Ontario, that was turned into a museum, it was turned into a gargantuan time capsule with robot curators.  About 5 years before the bombs fell, it was retrofitted with new vault tech (for a pretty penny), and filled with mostly bureaucrats, whose pettiness between the factions often becomes lethal.  This has become the legendary cat vault, where cats have taken over the vault and now use it as a major community making it one of the most well defended cat commune in North America.

Enchanted Keep of Kilbride:

 

Once the residence of James Livingston, now stands as a mystical sanctuary in Baden, Ontario, home to the Flax Witches, a lineage of herbalists and spellcasters skilled in using the magical properties of their enchanted gardens. With heart-shaped lawns brimming with potent flora, the Flax Witches weave intricate spells that guard the Keep and preserve its history. However, an unsettling darkness has begun to creep into their sacred garden, corrupting the magical plants and threatening the balance of power within the Keep. Adventurers are drawn to this enchanting location with a plot hook centered around a mysterious blight that afflicts the heart-shaped gardens, causing once-beneficial plants to wither and twist into hostile, corrupted forms. The Flax Witches seek brave souls to aid them in uncovering the source of this dark magic, restore the vitality of their garden, and confront the malevolent forces that threaten their legacy and the Enchanted Keep itself.

Fort Damocles:

 

Deep within the heart of Algonquin Provincial Park, the beaverfolk's militarized compound, Fort Damocles, stands as a testament to their disciplined prowess in both engineering and warfare. Strategically positioned along vital trade routes, the outpost is fortified with dams, watchtowers, and defensive structures, showcasing the beaverfolk's mastery over nature and military strategy. Renowned for their paramilitary precision, the beaverfolk control key transportation arteries in the region, utilizing the park's abundant resources for survival, trade, and expansion. Fort Damocles, a symbol of order amidst chaos, reflects the beaverfolk's commitment to imposing their structured vision on the post-Hodgepocalypse landscape.

The Franco-Bunker:  

 

Found Just North of Gatineau (the former Ottawa-Hull Region), this Bunker was subsidized by the government of Quebec as a place to save their best and brightest.  What wasn't known was that Bunker-tech was using this for an attempt to create a sociological experiment where all the documentation was in English.  Despite this, they consider themselves the last safe location of humanity and are wary of their neighbors to the west and the vampires of Quebec. 

Dome Super Pit:

The former Timms Ontario site has evolved into a massive pit mine at the heart of Green Creep, a foreboding landscape overshadowed by eerie legends. Beneath its surface lies a transdimensional connection that plunges into the depths of the Hallowed World, an alternate realm teeming with unspeakable horrors. This connection serves as the gateway for the grotesque creatures that now roam Green Creep, their origins rooted in the dark energies that seep through from the other side. As the mine continues to expand, the monstrous presence intensifies, drawing the attention of adventurers and scholars alike, all eager to unravel the mysteries hidden within its perilous depths.

The Hell Holes:

 

The Hell Holes of Eastern Ontario, located within Hell Holes Park, are an intriguing Karst feature formed from the dissolution of limestone beneath a protective upper layer, concealing a network of caves that serve as gateways to the mystical Hallowed World. This mirror dimension presents a curious landscape with a strange red sky and reversed geography, where explorers can encounter the enigmatic Hollow Guardians, spirit-like protectors of the dimensional boundary, as well as the reckless Ravenous Seekers drawn to the hidden treasures of both the caves and the Hallowed World. 

Inverness Brewery:

 

Located in Owen Sounds, Ontario, this local beer company entered deals with HalluciGen, Inc during the occupation.  Michael and Mary Duncan co-conspired to control the beer industry in the territory and world using a light chemical that made people more susceptible to mind control.   Then the Hodgepocalypse happened.  Brewmaster Buddy is a Mechanical Life Form (M.L.F.) that insists on creating and selling this brew "for the family business."

Library and Archives Canada (LAC):

In Ottawa, holds the remnants of Library and Archives Canada (LAC), a once great center of knowledge and cultural preservation. Now, it's a shadow of its former glory, with stacks of decaying books and ancient digital archives scattered among broken shelves and cracked floors. In this post-apocalyptic world, magic and technology coexist, and the LAC has become a dangerous yet tantalizing treasure trove for adventurers seeking lost knowledge. what was once a towering building, now partially collapsed and overgrown with mutated vines, magical fungi, and strange flora that glow faintly in the dark. The lower levels are submerged in murky water due to the collapse of nearby infrastructure, and only the most daring (or foolhardy) venture down into those depths, where both treasure and danger await. The upper floors still contain intact collections of ancient tomes, film reels, and early digital storage devices. However, accessing this wealth of knowledge is no simple task, for the archive is not unguarded.

In a bizarre twist of fate, the killer robots patrolling the LAC are themed after footwear, a relic from a time when the library sought to entertain children through whimsical stories and learning aids. These robots, originally designed as harmless teaching aids, have since been corrupted by the post-apocalyptic environment, turning into lethal protectors of the archives

The Little Bears Communities: 

 

These small, but burly folk. Have adapted to the frozen landscapes, embodying the brutal resilience of the Ontario wilderness. While technically animals, they have also tamed the local Cryrobear population to use as companions.

Marshal Bunker

Nestled near Hamilton, Vault McLuhan, a haven inspired by the prophetic teachings of Marshall McLuhan, operates as a unique sanctuary in the aftermath of the Hodgepocalypse. Embracing McLuhan's insights into media and communication, the vault's inhabitants prioritize the preservation of knowledge and understanding. The bunker functions as an intellectual enclave, utilizing McLuhan's theories to interpret the changed world outside. With a supply system built on sustainable practices and ingenious use of media, the vault thrives by repurposing salvaged technologies. McLuhan's prophetic words guide the allocation of resources, shaping a society that navigates the wasteland with a distinct perspective on information and communication. As vault dwellers venture beyond, they carry McLuhan's insights like a torch, seeking to understand and communicate in this transformed Ontario.

Mount Cheminis:

"The Sheared Spire," is a post-apocalyptic nexus of warped time and space caused by disrupted ley lines in the Hodgepocalypse. Surrounded by temporal anomalies like echo fields and time sinkholes, the mountain is a haven for mutant creatures and factions like the zealot Chronoknights and opportunistic Timeless Bandits. Its base features a glowing Stonehenge-like ring of ancient stones tied to its stability, while the shattered summit holds the Shard of Eternity, a crystalline anchor for the temporal flux guarded by a powerful entity.

Roseneath Carousel:

 

An historic C. W. Parker creation from 1906, has transformed into a mystical relic amidst the chaos of the Hodgepocalypse, offering a rare escape from grim realities. Nestled in the remnants of a small Ontario town, this carousel features 40 intricately carved basswood horses that magically glow and whisper secrets to those perceptive enough to listen. The ride, powered by an ancient motor and accompanied by the haunting melodies of a Wurlitzer military band organ, transports riders through fleeting visions of joy from the past. Guided by the benevolent spirit known as the Keeper of Joy, a community of Festival Survivors gathers around the carousel, celebrating resilience and normalcy, while roving merchants and scavengers seek to exploit its magic, leading to potential quests that reflect themes of hope, connection, and the enduring power of celebration in a fractured world.  Lately the local spirit has been acting despondent and acting as a poltergeist.  Why is it upset?

St. Raphael’s Ruins:

 

A haunting testament to resilience amidst the chaos of the Hodgepocalypse, feature the impressive outer walls of a once-grand Roman Catholic church, now entwined with nature’s reclaiming grip. The ruins house the Sanctuary of Shadows, where spectral colors dance in the rotting sunlight and whispers of forgotten hymns echo through the air, leading adventurers to encounter restless spirits in the hidden Crypt of Whispering Souls below. The site is inhabited by the Faithful of the Forgotten, a group dedicated to preserving the teachings of the past, and Relic Hunters seeking hidden treasures. Amidst this conflicted backdrop, quests abound, inviting adventurers to aid wandering spirits, navigate faction tensions, and prove their worth to uncover powerful artifacts that lie within the ancient stone walls.

Sudbury Neutrino Observatory: 

 

In the depths of the Sudbury Neutrino Detector, buried under the toxic Green Creep, lies a hazardous labyrinth of radiation and forgotten technology, remnants of a facility that once fueled the nuclear revolution. Adventurers must navigate the perilous underground to uncover the fate of surviving scientists rumored to have taken refuge in a hidden vault, potentially holding crucial knowledge of the past. Alternatively, they may face off against factions seeking to exploit the secrets buried within, while also encountering a unique commune of sentient roaches that have adapted to the irradiated environment. Rich with danger and opportunity, the quest promises to unveil mysteries that could alter the future of the surface world.

Syrup Woods: 

 

This irradiated Maple Tree Forest is guarded by the remains of the Canadian military as it mutates those that embed its sweet syrup.

Vault 25:  

 

This was a social experiment they put at the north pole (the magnetic because Santa Claus is Canadian) where they put a toy company's merchandise and enough Mechanics Life Forms (M.L.F.s to produce goods for generations.  It is completely automated and often drones leave the site to look for beings that are either "Naughty or Nice.”  Gnomes have commandeered this Vault and now use it to setup their conquest “in the name of Christmas!” 

Wapoosinator Lodge:  postquam haesitabant aedificare

 

This secretive order dates to weekend warriors back in the day who hid out there when the Hodgepocalypse occurred.  Consists of one main building and several outbuildings and surrounded by junk. It is a mixture of humans, kamidavers and at least one super Massive Verkhail (named Bear Gordon).  Led by Ned Brown, they have mastered the use of Duct tape and are currently debating whether to use the locals as "emergency provisions."

Waterloo Pioneer Memorial Tower

 

The Arcane Tower of Pioneer Spirits, formerly known as the Waterloo Pioneer Memorial Tower, stands as a formidable relic in Kitchener, Ontario, commemorating the region's Pennsylvania-German settlers while serving as a mystical wizard's tower. Infused with ancient magic, the tower conceals the entrance to a powerful Dimensional Gauntlet, challenging explorers with trials that reflect the pioneers' struggles and aspirations. At the tower's heart resides Olivia Moonshadow, the benevolent guardian, who guides worthy adventurers through the gauntlet's perils, offering wisdom and protection while preserving the legacy of the early settlers. This tower not only serves as a portal to alternate dimensions filled with treasures and secrets but also stands as a symbol of resilience and cultural heritage amid the chaos of the Hodgepocalypse.

Win-Troit: The Battle of the Bridge

 In the post-Hodgepocalypse world, the once-connected cities of Windsor, Ontario, and Detroit, Michigan, have devolved into a brutal, high-tech feud over control of the crumbling Ambassador Bridge. The Windsorites, fiercely nationalistic survivors clinging to their Canadian identity, have fortified their side of the bridge with repurposed technology and defensive tactics. On the other side, the Detritians, ruthless scavengers embodying Detroit's gritty spirit, relentlessly assault the Windsorites with overwhelming firepower and aggressive tactics. The ongoing conflict, often likened to a Hatfield-and-McCoy-style feud fought with advanced weapons, symbolizes the chaotic struggle for power and survival in the Hodgepocalypse's aftermath.

White Otter Castle

 

The Enchanted Keep of White Otter stands as a breathtaking log castle, built by the eccentric James Alexander "Jimmy" McOuat in the heart of Ontario's wilderness, now infused with magic and legend since the Hodgepocalypse. Once a solitary home, the castle has transformed into a sanctuary filled with ethereal whispers of its past, where adventurers can encounter the spirit of Jimmy McOuat who guards its ancient secrets, alongside the wise tree spirit Olari perched atop the turret. Beneath the keep lies the Hidden Grotto, a mystical place of healing springs and magical creatures. The castle serves as a hub for quests, inviting brave souls to reclaim lost artifacts, restore harmony with nature, and resolve threats to the delicate balance of its enchanted realm, all while experiencing the intriguing blend of history, magic, and adventure.

Places of Magic:

Enchanted Algonquin Forest: 

 

Ancient spirits and mystical creatures now inhabit Algonquin Provincial Park, creating a bewitched forest where the line between reality and magic blurs.

Holleford crater (The Shattered Hollow)

 

The Holleford Crater, a remnant of an ancient meteorite impact, was dramatically transformed during the Hodgepocalypse as the chaotic influx of magic intertwined with the geological features of the site. The impact's once-barren landscape became a thriving locus of arcane energy, giving rise to mutated flora that pulsate with strange light and phenomena. This fusion of cosmic remnants and magical forces not only altered the physical characteristics of the crater, warping the geography and creating bizarre, sentient ecosystems, but also awakened ancient powers that slumbered beneath the surface, creating a site of both wonder and danger steeped in the whispers of untold secrets from the past.

Temporal Anomalies of Niagara Falls: 

 

Hauntingly beautiful falls with temporal anomalies, revealing artifacts from alternate timelines.

 

 #Hodgepocalypse #Ontario #Dystopian #PostApocalypse #dnd5e #drevrpg #dungeonsanddragons #Apocalypse 

Hodgepocalypse Ontario: A Thousand Fragments - Part 1 - Overview and factions

Shattered Ontario, where the remnants of civilization struggle to survive amidst the chaos of the Hodgepocalypse. The once-unified province is now a fractured landscape, each region controlled by distinct factions—each with its own goals, secrets, and conflicts. From the disciplined, authoritarian Dominion Patrol enforcing order in Central Ontario, to the mysterious Warland cult in Kingston obsessed with the sanctity of paperwork, and the relentless tech-fueled war between Windsor and Detroit in the Win-Troit corridor, Ontario has become a battleground of clashing ideologies and power struggles. As the Green Creep advances from the north and strange, mutated beings roam the wilds, the people of Ontario must navigate a world where the past collides with an unpredictable and dangerous future, their fate written in a thousand fragmented stories.

History

The echoes of the Hodgepocalypse reverberate through the forsaken lands of Ontario, once a proud province rich in history, now a fractured realm where shattered realities converge. In a twist of fate, Canada faced its own storms of chaos before the cataclysmic Hodgepocalypse. While it resisted annexation by the United States, the nation endured upheavals that left deep scars, forever altering its course. The prelude to the Hodgepocalypse saw the rise of internal strife, political fragmentation, and economic collapse, all of which primed the land for the devastation that would follow.

The Great Lakes Seaway, a critical artery of commerce and transportation, was once a marvel of engineering and a symbol of Canadian-American cooperation. Before the Hodgepocalypse, it facilitated trade and economic growth, but as tensions rose and the world teetered on the brink of chaos, the Seaway became a strategic asset and a battleground. After the Hodgepocalypse, the Seaway transformed into a treacherous route, its waters infested with mutated creatures and haunted by ghost ships, yet still vital for the survival of the scattered communities clinging to its shores.

As the Hodgepocalypse tore through the fabric of reality, Ontario became ground zero for genetic and arcane experiments gone awry. The most notorious of these was the creation of the "Green Creep," a sprawling mass of mutated flora and fauna that now dominates Northern Ontario. This unnatural wilderness, born from magic-infused fallout, pulses with a sinister life, offering survivors both untold dangers and rare opportunities.

Key Events Post-Hodgepocalypse

The Emergence of the Marlarkoids:

Amidst the ruins, a new threat arose—the Marlarkoids, mutants who claim extraterrestrial origins. These enigmatic beings wield advanced Faustian Mechanical weapons, blending ancient arcane technology with a malevolent intelligence. Their presence adds an eerie, otherworldly dimension to the already dangerous wastes, as they pursue their inscrutable goals with terrifying efficiency.

The Necromantic Wars:

The Necromantic Wars ravaged the land, centered around the dark influence of the Fallen Lord Wendigo. The conflict left Ontario scarred and tainted, with entire regions consumed by necromantic energies. Although Wendigo was eventually defeated, his dark legacy endures through the Corpsemen, an industrialized undead army created from the twisted remnants of fallen soldiers and workers. Among them, a figure stands out—an enigmatic war hero from Ontario’s past, whose name is whispered with both reverence and fear.

Brigadier Morgticia Avery Mould, a decorated but controversial figure from Canada's military history, was revered for her decisive actions during the Third World War. Yet, her brutal tactics and willingness to sacrifice lives for victory left a shadow over his legacy. In the wake of the Hodgepocalypse, this once-mortal general was resurrected by Wendigo’s necromantic forces and twisted into a dark reflection of her former self. Now leading the Corpsemen, she seeks to impose order on the chaos of the wasteland, though her methods are as ruthless as ever.

Overview

Ontario, in the aftermath of the Hodgepocalypse, is a paradoxical landscape—a blend of desolation and resurgence. The collapse of advanced technology has forced survivors to adapt in inventive ways. Bicycles and rollerblades now serve as primary modes of transportation, while wood gas-powered vehicles clatter along the ruined highways. The scarcity of ammunition has led to a resurgence of primitive warfare; survivors rely on cunning traps, ambushes, and an array of makeshift weapons, such as hockey sticks and powered lawn darts, to defend themselves.

The Great Lakes Seaway remains a lifeline, but its treacherous waters are fraught with dangers. Survivors must navigate not only the mutated aquatic life and the wreckage of the past but also the predatory bands that now control key chokepoints along the route. Despite the hazards, the Seaway is crucial for trade between isolated communities, with bartering and scavenging becoming the new economy.

As relative peace settles over the land, a new influx of weapons and equipment from the more intact southern regions of Canada has begun. However, this sudden influx of technology and resources has sparked a heated debate among the survivors: will these imports bring the hope of rebuilding, or will they rekindle the fires of conflict and exploitation?

Factions

Cybercult: The Keepers of the Locks

Location: Eastern Ontario and the St. Lawrence Seaway

• Geography: The Keepers of the Locks dominate the crucial waterways stretching from Kingston to Cornwall, overseeing the St. Lawrence Seaway and the Great Lakes lock system. Their territory extends along the St. Lawrence River, providing them with control over vital trade routes connecting the Great Lakes to the Atlantic Ocean.

• Faction Overview: The Keepers of the Locks, a sect within the larger Cybercult, are a technologically advanced faction dedicated to maintaining and controlling the lock systems that facilitate waterborne trade between the Great Lakes and the Atlantic. This group believes that the preservation and restoration of these mechanical marvels are not just practical but a sacred duty. Comprised of engineers, mechanics, and cybernetic enforcers, they blend advanced technology with fanatical devotion to their cause. The Keepers are locked in a bitter conflict with the Atlantic Compact over trading rights, their cybernetic enhancements and Faustian technologies making them formidable opponents. Their unwavering belief in the superiority of the artificial drives them to guard these waterways with religious fervor, seeing themselves as the last bastion of civilization's technological heritage.

The Secret Dairy Council (Mafia)

Location: Southwestern Ontario

• Geography: This faction's power base lies in the fertile farmlands of Southwestern Ontario, particularly in the dairy-rich regions of Oxford County, Perth County, and Huron County.

• Faction Overview: The Secret Dairy Council has evolved from a cooperative of dairy farmers into a powerful mafia-like organization that controls the production and distribution of dairy products, which are now a luxury in the post-apocalyptic economy. Their influence extends through the farmlands, and they use their control over dairy to exert power over nearby settlements. The Council is known for its ruthlessness in protecting its interests and its secretive operations, which include smuggling and black market trading. 

The Pencil Pushers

Location: Ottawa and Eastern Ontario

• Geography: Centered around the ruins of Ottawa, this faction's influence spreads across Eastern Ontario, encompassing towns like Pembroke and Cornwall.

• Faction Overview: The Pencil Pushers are a shadowy organization that emerged from a merger of Stats Canada and CSIS (Canadian Security Intelligence Service). They operate as a secretive intelligence network, collecting information, controlling data, and manipulating events from behind the scenes. They are the remnants of pre-Hodgepocalypse bureaucrats and spies who now use their skills to maintain order, gather intelligence, and enforce their will on the region.

Beaverfolk Militia Compounds

Location: Northern and Central Ontario, particularly around Algonquin Park and the Canadian Shield

• Geography: The Beaverfolk inhabit the wilderness regions of Northern Ontario, with their compounds hidden deep within the forests and rugged terrain of the Canadian Shield.

• Faction Overview: The Beaverfolk are a fiercely independent and territorial species who have fortified their compounds throughout the dense forests of Northern Ontario. They have a strong connection to nature and are experts in guerrilla warfare, using their knowledge of the land to defend their territory from intruders. Their militia is well-organized, and they are known for their communal living and resourcefulness.

Dominion Patrol

Location: Central and Southern Ontario, including areas like Barrie, Orillia, and the outskirts of Toronto

• Geography: The Dominion Patrol's territory stretches across Central and Southern Ontario, including the more populated regions around Toronto, Barrie, and Orillia.

• Faction Overview: Established as a well-organized militia, they strive to maintain law and order in a post-Hodgepocalypse world, enforcing a strict code of discipline and civility reminiscent of the pre-collapse era. Their operations are heavily influenced by Warland, an old military base in Kingston that has evolved into a warrior cult obsessed with the sanctity of paperwork. Warland's shadowy past, as a focal point of the occupation, hints at dark secrets buried within its walls, which the Dominion Patrol seeks to uncover and control. This connection to Warland fuels the Patrol's authoritarian methods, as they aim to restore order across Ontario while navigating the hidden dangers and mysteries left behind by the Hodgepocalypse.

The Marlarkoid Cartel

Location: Greater Toronto Area, centered around the ruins of Toronto and the C.N. Tower

• Geography: The Marlarkoid Cartel dominates the ruins of Toronto and the surrounding Greater Toronto Area (GTA). Their base of operations is the former C.N. Tower, which they have turned into a fortress and trading hub.  This is one of the most multicultural and multispecies areas in all of Hodgepocalypse North America and is a virtual melting pot.

• Faction Overview: The Marlarkoid Cartel is controlled by the Xanford family whom are mutants who claim to be alien crash survivors. They have embraced their otherworldly identity, mixing techno-wizardry with a 1950s sci-fi aesthetic. The Cartel is known for their Faustian Mechanics, a blend of advanced technology and arcane practices. They are both traders and raiders, using their technological prowess to dominate the region and spread their influence.

The Graveyard

Location: Northwestern Ontario, centered around Thunder Bay

• Geography: The Graveyard is an ever-changing region of wilderness and ruins in Northwestern Ontario, particularly around Thunder Bay. The area is haunted by the minions of Wendigo and other monstrous creatures.

• Faction Overview: The Graveyard is less of a faction and more of a terrifying region where the servants of Wendigo roam. Thunder Bay, now a desolate and cursed city, is the epicenter of this region. Wendigo, one of the few Fallen Lords who still physically stalks the land, is said to haunt these areas, with his minions hunting anyone who dares to enter. This region is a no-man's-land, feared by all but the bravest or most desperate.  It is where Brigadier Morgticia Avery Mould is preparing her forces to strike at the rest of Ontario when the time is right.  

The Green Creep

Bizarre plant life slowly engulfs Northern Ontario, showcasing the unpredictable consequences of genetic experiments.  The core of the Green Creep would be in the wilderness north of the Beaverfolk Militia, extending from areas around Timmins to Thunder Bay, encompassing a broad swath of Northern Ontario's rugged, forested landscape.  It also creates conflict with the Graveyard, and dominion patrol.  Paradoxically Harvesters, psychic plant scientsts come to this area to study it and grab samples for their own purposes.

 #Hodgepocalypse #Ontario #Dystopian #PostApocalypse #dnd5e #drevrpg #dungeonsanddragons #Apocalypse 

Keystone Wastes - Part 6 - Ursineholt: The Little Bear Settlement in Churchill

Overview: Ursineholt, located on the ruins of the former town of Churchill, Manitoba, is a bustling, tight-knit community that serves as both the heart of Little Bear culture and a vital gateway to the Borealis Reach. Despite its small size, this settlement has grown in importance, attracting adventurers, traders, and scholars drawn to the mysteries of the warmed Hudson Bay and the surrounding wilderness.

The Borealis Reach: Once known as Hudson Bay, the Borealis Reach is a vast, semi-tropical expanse of water, a stark contrast to its former frozen state. A pre-Hodgepocalypse engineering marvel warmed the waters, creating a unique ecosystem that has been further enhanced by magical influences in the aftermath of the Revelations. The Reach is now teeming with life, both mundane and mystical, making it a destination for those seeking adventure, rare resources, and knowledge.

Layout of Ursineholt: Ursineholt is a blend of old-world remnants and new-world ingenuity. The settlement is built primarily from sod, evergreen wood, and clay bricks, with many structures perched on stilts to avoid flooding from the Reach. The Little Bears have repurposed several pre-Revelation buildings, restoring them to provide modern comforts like electricity and running water. The town’s layout is compact, with narrow streets winding between small, sturdy huts and treehouses.

Key Locations:

The Great Hall of Grandpapa:

At the center of Ursineholt stands the Great Hall, a large communal building made from repurposed materials, where the town's matriarch or patriarch, known as Grandpapa (or Grandmama), presides. This hall is where the community gathers for town meetings, religious ceremonies, and celebrations. The Great Hall is also where adventurers can seek blessings or advice before setting out into the Borealis Reach.

Plothook: When Grandmama Bjornhilde, the beloved leader of Ursineholt, falls gravely ill, the town's unity is at risk. The only hope lies in retrieving an ancient, enchanted heirloom, lost decades ago to Skaldr the Frostbane, an ice troll who fled into the dangerous Borealis Reach. The adventurers are tasked with finding this artifact, believed to possess healing powers, before the town descends into chaos. However, they must navigate treacherous frozen landscapes, confront potential rivals within Ursineholt, and uncover the true nature of the heirloom, which may carry a hidden curse.

The Adventurer's Hearth:

The Adventurer's Hearth is the primary gathering place for travelers, adventurers, and Little Bears alike. This establishment functions as a tavern, inn, and marketplace, where tales of past exploits are shared, and future journeys are planned. The Hearth is known for its hearty meals, brewed from local ingredients, and its extensive collection of rare items and maps of the Borealis Reach. It is run by a jovial Little Bear named Brewmaster White Tip, who is famous for his berry-infused ales.

Plot Hook: At the Adventurer's Hearth, a mysterious traveler arrives with a torn map of the Borealis Reach, claiming it leads to a long-lost vault hidden beneath the Bay. Brewmaster White Tip offers free ale for life to anyone who can retrieve the treasure, sparking fierce competition among adventurers and locals. However, as more people follow the map, strange accidents begin to occur, and whispers of an ancient curse linked to the vault spread through the tavern. The adventurers must decide whether to pursue the riches or uncover the dark secret that lies beneath the Hearth's jovial atmosphere.

The TEDI Enclave:

In the town center, the repuposed community center of Ursineholt is dedicated to the TEDI Order. Here, young Ursine Sentinels train under the guidance of experienced warriors and mages. The enclave is a serene place, surrounded by ancient trees and marked by carved stone pillars inscribed with both Norse runes and TEDI symbols. Visitors can often find TEDI members practicing their martial and magical arts or meditating on the balance between the physical and mystical.

Plot Hook: A mysterious figure calling themselves "The Lost Sentinel" has been sending letters to TEDI initiates, challenging them to prove their mastery of both martial and magical skills. Those who fail are said to vanish into the Borealis Reach, never to be seen again. TEDI scholars believe this figure is a rogue Sentinel who has gone mad. Adventurers are asked to participate in the next test and put an end to the Lost Sentinel’s dangerous games.

The Polar Watch:

The Polar Watch is a lookout tower that serves as both a defensive position and a spiritual observatory. From here, Little Bears and visitors alike can observe the polar bears that roam the outskirts of Ursineholt. These majestic creatures are seen as omens and guides, and their movements are carefully interpreted by the Ursine. The tower also provides a stunning view of the Borealis Reach, making it a popular spot for those seeking inspiration or guidance.

Plot Hook: One night at the Polar Watch, a massive polar bear, larger than any seen before, is spotted wandering unusually close to Ursineholt. The Ursine elders believe the bear is a powerful omen, possibly signaling a major event for the settlement, but its meaning remains unclear. Meanwhile, strange tremors have been felt across the Borealis Reach, leading some to fear that something far worse is stirring beneath the ice. The adventurers are tasked with tracking the bear, deciphering its message, and discovering whether the creature is a protector—or a harbinger of doom.

The Old Train Depot:

An old, abandoned train depot has been converted into a bustling trading post. It serves as the primary hub for goods coming in and out of Ursineholt. Traders from distant lands bring exotic wares, while Little Bears offer unique crafts and preserved foods. The depot is a place of constant activity, where deals are struck, and new alliances are forged.

Plot Hook: Rumors spread through the bustling train depot that a newly arrived trader possesses a rare and ancient relic from before the Hodgepocalypse, one that could unlock untold power—or disaster. As traders and factions vie to purchase the relic, tensions run high, with whispers of sabotage and betrayal in the air. When the relic is suddenly stolen in the dead of night, the adventurers must navigate the dangerous underworld of the trading post, uncover the thief, and decide whether the relic is worth the risks it carries—or if it's better left forgotten.

Churchill River Beluga Whales: 

The beluga whales in the area have mutated, becoming either psychic creatures capable of communicating with survivors, but also monstrous leviathans that attack anything that comes near the area that isn’t approved. Their haunting calls could lure or terrify those who hear them.

Plot Hook:The psychic beluga whales that roam the Churchill River have begun communicating more frequently, delivering cryptic warnings of a great danger lurking beneath the Borealis Reach. One whale claims to know the location of an ancient, sunken city filled with relics from the old world—but it’s also guarded by the monstrous leviathan belugas. Adventurers must decide whether to trust the whale’s message and venture into the depths or risk ignoring the warnings.

Miss Piggy Plane Wreck: 

A relic of a bygone era, the Miss Piggy Plane Wreck looms large in the wasteland, its rusted fuselage a haunting reminder of the pre-Hodgepocalypse world. Once a C-46 cargo plane that crashed near Churchill, the wreckage has since become a vital landmark for scavengers and survivors, used as both a navigational point and a makeshift shelter against the unforgiving environment.

Plothook: Recently, scavengers have been disappearing around the Miss Piggy Plane Wreck, their camps found ransacked but with no signs of a struggle. The Little Bears believe the wreck is now home to a powerful spirit—perhaps the lingering essence of the plane's last pilot, who is said to protect the area from those unworthy. Adventurers are tasked with exploring the wreck and uncovering the truth, but they must tread carefully, as upsetting the spirit could have dire consequences.

The MV Ithaca, 

 Once a merchant vessel stranded in the shallows of Hudson Bay, has become a treacherous dungeon in the Hodgepocalypse. Its rusting hull, partially submerged and battered by the elements, now harbors twisted creatures drawn to the eerie aura of the wreck. Inside, the ship's flooded compartments form a labyrinth of crumbling steel, where adventurers must navigate through mutated sea life, dangerous debris, and the lingering spirits of the crew. The ship's cargo hold, long rumored to contain valuable or cursed relics, serves as the ultimate prize, but only the brave or foolhardy dare to explore its haunted depths.

Plot Hook: A recent storm has uncovered a previously sealed section of the MV Ithaca, drawing the attention of treasure hunters and scholars alike. Rumor has it that within this newly revealed compartment lies a long-lost artifact that could either restore balance to the chaotic Borealis Reach or unleash an ancient curse. However, the ship's treacherous depths have become even more perilous, as mutated sea creatures now guard the wreck, and the vengeful spirits of the crew are more restless than ever. The adventurers must race against rival scavengers to secure the artifact, but the question remains—what price will they pay for venturing into the ship's haunted, crumbling heart?

Prince of Wales Fort  

The Prince of Wales Fort, once a strategic outpost on Hudson Bay, has evolved into a formidable stronghold and haunted ruin in the Hodgepocalypse. Fortified by survivors who sought refuge from the surrounding chaos, the fort now stands as a bastion against the dangers of the post-apocalyptic world. Its ancient walls are lined with makeshift defenses, and its once-stately ramparts are now crowded with scavengers and defenders. However, the fort is also known for its spectral inhabitants; the spirits of past soldiers and settlers still roam the grounds, defending their domain with a vengeful intensity. The fort's shadowy corridors and battlements are a battleground of both the living and the dead, making it a place of both strategic significance and supernatural peril.

Plot Hook: The spectral defenders of the Prince of Wales Fort have become more aggressive in recent weeks, launching ghostly raids against nearby traders and travelers. Some survivors claim the spirits are re-enacting a long-forgotten siege. Adventurers are hired to lay the spirits to rest, but they will have to survive the fort's eerie battles, where the line between past and present is blurred, and both living and dead are caught in an endless cycle of war.

The Inukshuk

The Inukshuk is a towering stone figure, standing as a remnant of a long-forgotten past, predating even the Revelations. Built by the ancient Inuit, it is seen as both a marker of safe passage and a spiritual guide. To the Little Bears, the Inukshuk is revered as a sacred waypoint, its location believed to mark where the mortal and spirit worlds intersect.

Plot Hook: Strange lights have been seen near the Inukshuk at night, and whispers of ancient voices drift on the wind. Adventurers may be asked to investigate, only to discover that the statue hides a portal to a forgotten Inuit spirit realm.

The Radar Station

 Once a Cold War-era military installation, the Radar Station is now an eerie ruin, its massive satellite dishes still standing but long abandoned. It sits on the outskirts of Ursineholt, its rusting husks partially buried by the shifting tundra. Local legends claim it was used for secret pre-Hodgepocalypse experiments, and its interior remains largely unexplored.

Plot Hook: A surge of electrical energy has been detected at the Radar Station, and strange creatures have been spotted lurking near it. The Little Bears need adventurers to investigate what lies within, but they'll need to be wary of both the station's lingering automated defenses and any surviving experiments.

The Rocket Range

Built in the 20th century for launching research rockets, the Rocket Range is now a desolate strip of land, littered with old launch pads and debris from failed launches. The area is still believed to contain highly valuable salvage, including rare metals and potentially dangerous technology.

Plot Hook: Recent sightings of glowing lights coming from the Rocket Range have piqued the interest of both local scavengers and TEDI scholars. Adventurers are hired to recover a piece of lost technology, but they quickly discover that the Range is haunted by ghostly apparitions of scientists and technicians who perished there.

Polar Bear Jail

 Originally built to house problem bears that wandered too close to human settlements, the Polar Bear Jail is now a fortified outpost where the Little Bears hold dangerous criminals or wild creatures that can’t be killed. It stands at the edge of town, surrounded by high fences and reinforced gates.

Plot Hook: Recently, several powerful and deadly mutant creatures were captured and placed in the jail, but now they have begun to mysteriously disappear. Locals suspect something—or someone—is freeing them. The adventurers are hired to track down these creatures and uncover the jail's secrets.

Wolf Statues

 Scattered around the outskirts of Ursineholt, the Wolf Statues are enigmatic stone sculptures left by an unknown pre-Hodgepocalypse civilization. The Little Bears regard them with reverence, believing they are protectors of the settlement, keeping away evil spirits and wild beasts.

Plot Hook: After a severe storm, one of the statues is found shattered, and strange wolf-like creatures have been spotted prowling the town’s borders. It’s up to the adventurers to figure out if the statues truly hold protective power—and if so, how to restore it before something worse appears.

Sea Port

The Sea Port is Ursineholt's lifeline to the outside world, a small but bustling dockyard where ships brave enough to sail the ever-changing waters of the Borealis Reach can load and unload goods. It is also the starting point for many expeditions across the Reach, offering adventurers a place to find passage or repair their vessels.

Plot Hook: A ship carrying valuable cargo has gone missing, last seen heading toward a mysterious island in the middle of the Reach. The ship's crew was known for their dangerous dealings, and the adventurers are tasked with both recovering the cargo and uncovering what truly happened to the vessel.

Little Bear Religion and Beliefs:

The Ursine believe they are the reincarnations of noble human souls lost during the Revelations, given a second chance to live in harmony with nature and the cosmic forces. Their religion blends ancient Norse beliefs with the teachings of the TEDI Order, creating a unique spiritual path that emphasizes balance, honor, and the pursuit of inner peace.

• Norse Mythology: The Ursine worship the Æsir gods, seeing themselves as their chosen warriors in the eternal battle against chaos. They recount tales of Odin, Thor, and other gods, interpreting them as guides on how to live and fight with honor.

• TEDI Order: The TEDI Order is the Ursine’s adaptation of the ancient Sentinel tradition, a blend of warrior and mage disciplines. Ursine Sentinels practice self-discipline, martial prowess, and arcane knowledge, striving to maintain the balance between the physical and mystical realms. They are taught the importance of mindfulness, the pursuit of harmony, and the need to protect the weak from the forces of darkness.

Viking Raids and Polar Bear Omens:

For the Ursine, taking on the mantle of a Viking is a religious duty. They embark on Vikingraids, journeys meant to protect the innocent, gather knowledge, and spread their teachings. Unlike the violent raids of old, these expeditions focus on exploration, diplomacy, and defending the weak.

Polar bears, which roam the lands around Churchill, are seen as sacred animals and omens. Their behavior is closely watched and interpreted as messages from the gods. A polar bear’s movements might predict the weather, foretell the success of a voyage, or signal a time of peace or conflict. These bears are never hunted; instead, they are respected and revered as living symbols of the divine.

Local Customs and Events:

The Raids of Light:

o Twice a year, the Ursine hold the Raids of Light, ceremonial Vikingraids where groups of Little Bears set out on expeditions across the Borealis Reach. These raids are not for conquest but for discovery and the spreading of the TEDI teachings. They bring back knowledge, resources, and sometimes new settlers to Ursineholt.

The Festival of the Shifting Lights:

o The Festival of the Shifting Lights is a celebration of the Borealis Reach’s magical auroras. This week-long event includes storytelling, feasting, and a series of ritualized duels and games held in honor of the TEDI Order and the Norse gods. It is a time for Little Bears to honor their ancestors and the forces that shaped their world.

The Polar Bear Procession:

o A spiritual event held when a polar bear is spotted near the town. The Ursine interpret the bear’s behavior as an omen, and the entire community may participate in a procession to honor the bear, offering it food and gifts. This ritual is believed to bring good fortune and protection to Ursineholt.

Challenges for Adventurers:

The Everchanging Reach:

o The Borealis Reach is a place of wonder and danger, where the waters and the creatures within them are influenced by both ancient technology and wild magic. Adventurers must be prepared to face both natural and supernatural threats as they explore this strange, semi-tropical bay.

Mysteries of the Old World:

o Within Ursineholt and the surrounding areas, remnants of the pre-Hodgepocalypse world still hold secrets. Adventurers may stumble upon old bunkers, forgotten technologies, or even ancient spirits that need to be laid to rest.

The Call of the TEDI:

o Those who come to Ursineholt may find themselves drawn to the TEDI Order, seeking to learn their ways. However, this path is not for the faint-hearted, requiring both discipline and a deep understanding of the balance between martial prowess and magical ability.

 

Keystone Wastes - Part 5 - The Dam Good Trading Co.

 

Pro commercia et gloria – "For Goods and Glory"

Origins of the Dam Good Trading Co.

The Dam Good Trading Co. (DGTC) is a dynamic organization, seamlessly merging trade, logistics, and community development in the Hodgepocalypse. Born in the aftermath of cataclysmic events, the DGTC has grown into a leading entity across the shattered landscape of North America. Combining the innovation of the industrious Beaverfolk with centuries-old trading traditions, the company’s influence stretches far and wide, controlling crucial supply chains, rare goods, and vital infrastructure in a world struggling to rebuild.

Divisions of the Dam Good Trading Co.

• Mortimer’s Luxe: An exclusive marketplace for the elite, specializing in luxury goods and rare artifacts. It's where wealthy traders and adventurers go to find the finest items salvaged from the ruins of the old world.
• Beaver Bazaar: Located in the heart of Weird Pegg (Winnipeg), this eclectic market sells everything from mundane necessities to enchanted curiosities. It’s a bustling hub of commerce where deals are made and fortunes are lost.
• Great Northern Traders: A decentralized trade network known for distributing practical, essential supplies to settlements in the remote northern regions. Great Northern Traders deal in raw materials, foodstuffs, and survival gear.
• Keaton's Goods & Wares: An off-price emporium famous for high-quality salvaged goods. This division focuses on refurbished items and surplus gear at unbeatable prices, making it a favorite among scavengers and wanderers.

Operations and Structure

Each division operates semi-autonomously to cater to regional demands and ensure adaptability in a world where survival hinges on resourcefulness. The DGTC maintains outposts in strategic locations, offering defense and logistical support, while simultaneously ensuring their trade routes remain secure from rival factions and mutated threats.

Their Beaver Lodge Development branch manages real estate and community infrastructure, developing trade outposts, waystations, and supply hubs. The DGTC provides a sense of security and stability in a chaotic world, allowing settlements to thrive under their protection.

Defense and Fortification Strategies

DGTC outposts are modeled after the ancient Beaverfolk lodges, with an emphasis on natural fortifications and defensive ingenuity:

• Compound-Style Outposts: Built like mini-fortresses, DGTC trading posts are equipped with traps, palisades, and natural barriers like rivers or forests, ensuring the safety of their goods and people.
• Underwater Gardens and Hydropower: Many outposts feature hydro-powered defenses and underwater farms, making them self-sufficient and harder to siege.
• Tactics and Armament: DGTC defenders rely on guerrilla tactics, traps, and ambushes. They also favor cutting-edge tech, from enchanted firearms to magical artillery, ensuring their strongholds remain formidable.

Trade Goods and Offerings

DGTC’s wares include a mix of survival essentials and rare items, serving adventurers, mercenaries, and wealthy elites alike:

• Modern Weaponry and Armor: Firearms, explosives, custom armor, and other equipment suitable for traversing the hostile wastelands.
• Faustian Mechanisms: Enchanted firearms, magical automatons, and hybrid machinery that combine technology with arcane power.
• Underwater Farming Kits: Popular among aquatic species or communities near water, these kits help establish sustainable underwater gardens.
• Salvaged Vehicles: Custom-built vehicles (affectionately called "Sweet Rides") range from armored trucks to bizarre, exotic contraptions.

Transportation and Portages

In Hodgepocalypse Canada, with its extensive wetlands and forests, traditional vehicles struggle. Enter the Pack Rats, six-legged beasts bred for their strength and adaptability:

• Portage Routes: Pack Rats haul heavy loads across difficult terrain like dense forests or rocky outcrops, helping caravans move swiftly between riverways.
• Water-Compatible Movement: Pack Rats, while not fully aquatic, excel in wet environments, able to wade through rivers and bogs.
• Pack Rat Outposts: Special outposts serve as training centers for these creatures, where they are bred and prepared for overland trade routes.

Adventurer Hooks Involving Pack Rats

1. The Pack Rat Problem: A DGTC trade route is blocked by a colony of wild Pack Rats, mutated by exposure to magical waste. Adventurers are hired to clear the infestation and recover stolen goods.
2. The Great Pack Rat Rodeo: A yearly event in Weird Pegg draws competitors from all around. Adventurers are hired to investigate sabotage or compete in the rodeo.
3. Lost Caravan: A DGTC caravan has disappeared in marshlands, and the usually docile Pack Rats are running wild. Adventurers are tasked with recovering the lost goods.

Key Dam Good Trading Co. Outposts Across Canada

Fort Driftwood (Winnipeg, Manitoba)

• Focus: Central hub of DGTC’s operations, combining trade, governance, and research.
• Defenders: A mix of Beaverfolk, dwarves, humans, and Feylin, all experts in trap-laying and defense.
• Purpose: Serves as the primary warehouse and administrative center for DGTC operations.

Greenwood Enclave (Vancouver Island, British Columbia)

• Focus: Herbalism, potion-making, and trade in magical goods.
• Defenders: Animated plant creatures and Feylin defenders.
• Purpose: Produces rare herbs and potions.

The Silver Lodge (Banff, Alberta)

A mountain outpost leased to the Dam Good Trading Co by the teenage dragon, Jargon, who runs his territory with a mixture of youthful ambition and chaotic rule. Despite his draconic nature, Jargon engages in limited trade, especially in rare minerals, metals, and enchanted goods.

• Focus: Mining rare minerals and trading enchanted goods.
• Defenders: Elves, Minotaurs, and Feylin, using natural terrain for defense.
• Purpose: Jargon allows mining and limited trading of precious metals, alchemical reagents, and enchanted artifacts, though he demands a cut of all proceeds.

York Haven (Hudson Bay, Northern Manitoba)

• Focus: A fortified trading hub near the historic location of York Factory, known for its prominent portage and waterways. This outpost specializes in long-range, water-based trade, relying heavily on York boats to navigate the numerous rivers and coastlines.  It takes advantage of the much milder climate to venture northward. 
• Defenders: The rugged inhabitants include Humans, Dwarves, and adaptable Beaverfolk, who have constructed the outpost like a hybrid between a fort and a lodge. Defense systems include both traps and water-based barricades.
• Purpose: York Haven acts as a key supply stop for traders venturing further into the north and serves as a hub for aquatic farming, rare textiles, and alchemical materials sourced from the surrounding wetlands and forests. 

Expanded Adventuring Hooks: 

The Good, The Bad, and The Ugly

1. The Good: A hidden cache of pre-Hodgepocalypse technology has been discovered in a remote, waterlogged ruin. DGTC hires adventurers to escort a convoy to the dig site and protect the engineers.
2. The Bad: A DGTC supply convoy has vanished near Lake Agony, a desolate and dangerous region. The company needs scouts to recover the goods.
3. The Ugly: A relic known as the Bone Mirror of the Old World was acquired by a DGTC agent. Rival factions want it, and a mole may be undermining the company from within.

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