That book lies, 3/4 of the way through theres a simplified version of creating the deathless im sure its obtainable to a creative and thorough necromancer. 😈
Two days ago I had intended for my party to read an NPC's journal which contained a very emotional backstory which took a number of hours to write. They killed the NPC and ripped the used pages out of his journal and sold the rest.
Lichloved: Feat. By repeatedly committing perverted sex acts with the undead, the character gains dread powers. Benefit: Mindless undead see the character as an undead creature. Becoming more and more like an actual undead creature, he gains a +1 circumstance bonus on saving throws against mind-affecting effects, poison, sleep, paralysis, stunning and disease. ...that's a real feat?
And becouse Who Astoshan is. If he was a plain normal Necro, he whuld be like the rest. but this? this is more like a Book, written by an expirianced writer.
Is it? I think it is pretty mediocre this time and serves all the MarySue clichees I always suspected. But lately Astoshan becomes an interesting character.
Mark Alvarado i think what your thinking of is a video detailing Astoshans time with his adventuring party and how he defended a village with his many crypts of undead
Inside us. Around us. Forming us. In a way this cruel fate leaves a small note of kindness. Until our last death, we will probably be so dead inside we will welcome it.
@@Meteor2022 I dunno, I actually starting to believe earlier death is better than long life. it is a loss, but not for the one who died. unless they really wanted some more time in the world.
@@DynamismImpulse i played inqui a boatload of times, and settled for an elf knight enchanter that's so OP it's not even funny. Cassandra reading smut is still funny tho.
I am definitely going to be trying to make this spell for my dragonborn wizard that is studying to become a necromancer. He hopes to find a answer for is haunted background
Felix LaVulpe I must find where you did it. I already have an eladrin rogue and a drow cleric, but after this I desire a necromancer so bad that I’m willing to punch time itself to go back and have one from the get go
@@felixlavulpe3506 Sure did, it is in the combination of spells. Kiernan Rogers This is something you have to go over with the DM. My group, some who have been playing since 1st edition, believes in the rule of cool. Some DMs may not be comfortable with the added challanges something like this creates.
Astoshan physically aged until his 70's. I don't like characters that are super high level when they're really young, makes the whole lifetime of learning irrelevant.
@@felixlavulpe3506 I have three technically two young mages. One is a child prodigy and the other two are warlocks who are still learning their magic and thus only have 2 spell slots and limited spells.
DM: "... you will find no spells or power within these pages." All Players: "Can I use detect magic?! There's gotta be something in these pages to make me stronger."
There is: The history of a broken man's life can teach many things. Kind of the dark, edgy version of "love is its own reward." Although, both have seriously good applications, all joking aside.
The only magic in the tome is just the usual enchantments one uses to keep the thing intact after centuries of exposure to the elements. Protection against fire, ice, the works.
They'd think they were about to meet a bunch of undead and then see two living, beautiful twin girls come running, happy to see their dad. At least one person would faint and the rest would need a minute to recover
Followed by the surprise that astoshan has a family that isn't dead and the police to be calling bulls**t and demanding that he shows the legal documents only to not believe them.
Netflix would never do it, I'm a historical nut and they wouldn't want to pay for my realism. Sword fights would be a few seconds, the barbarians would use tactics, the characters aren't pants-on-head retarded, bad guys actually have motives.
@@felixlavulpe3506 However if the stories were written up well enough you might get a series that moderately to severely butchers the story in a few decades, look at the Shannara Chronicles.
@@MsKeylas Hi. Wasn't expecting a reply after three years, but just to make a few clarifications 1. I'm Irish, born and raised. 2. These are Irish names. 3. I personally know multiple people with these names. 4. You do know that All things DnD isn't the author, right? They just do readings, like Crit Crab.
This a great story. Good motivation, I especially like that he and his lady love found common ground and understanding even despite the divide of religions. I'm known amongst my circle of players as THE necromancer. I have been fond of the class and its trappings for a long time. I have had many a discussion about the morality of necromancy and necromantic magic with my friends. I will argue that necromancy isn't evil until my dying day. Negative energy and life manipulation is little different from what an evoker does, just a different source. Undead, while dangerous, ARE naturally occurring creatures in a fantasy setting. The need supervision and containment, certainly. and can be ruinous if left unattended and uncontrolled, but they are hardly unnatural. Ghosts are a prime example. My personal area of interest is the soul. Its construction, makeup, origins, destination. all of it.
If you look at magic in a fantasy setting, it may as well represent science or technology in our own... Practically speaking, anyone can use the mechanical rules to implement it in-game, so there's no relevant difference. Necromancy may have a LOT to do with raising undead and the like... BUT it IS also the school that grants wizards access to Healing spells... all the way back to 1e. SO the principles are neutral. What the CASTER is doing is tantamount to either Good or Evil... and that on the PC/NPC, not the school or the magic itself. ;o)
In my campaign, vampires are souls who are forbidden entrance to the afterlife, and bound by their curse to roam the material plane feeding on the living. But how they use their powers and what they decide to do with them is up to the vampire. Most succumb to hopelessness and despair, and believe they have no choice but to become evil monsters of destruction. But some rare few refuse to fall down the dark path, and cling to the humanity they once had, using their powers to help others instead of hurt them. One of these, Lovan, is my favorite character.
@@Aelanna In my discussions, entrapment of the soul is a big marker as to whether or not making an undead is really evil. Trapping a soul against its will is evil, full stop. I see most zombie/skeleton undead as being negative energy puppets basically. I like advanced skeletons personally.
@@alexiuscastrum Yes, in the case of my vampires, most of the time it is done against their will by another vampire. It usually ends up with one of the two destroying the other in time. Sometimes someone will see out a vampire, wanting to become one for whatever reason. This usually ends badly as well.
@@Aelanna Still a D&D-esque game, but in ours, the Vampire (and a few other intelligent undead) are partly the result of warring factions of Deities... Some of the "Good" (life, light, etc) are refusing entry to souls "perverted" on the Prime Material... Some "Bad" (destruction, dark, etc.) are actively engaged in seducing the souls refused from the "Heavens"... which is how some of these undead gain powers... The result is that we have some Vampires actively trying to reach redemption... Some losing hope (or adopting power-hungry practices to stay Earthbound)... AND some in servitude to the Dark entities, actively gaining power for the devastation and chaos they can create. Not sure why, but it seemed like you might find this interesting... maybe inspiring for another dimension to your game (regardless of how exactly)... Just a thought. ;o)
What are Necromancers normally? Black? Dark? Edgy? ;) I see more "Grey/Gray/Neutral" etc. Darklords lately as anything else. Astoshan is late in the scene. If a decade earlier he would have been a sight to behold. But now "goodhearted evil guys" are the edgy norm.
Stay tuned for the epic conclusion and please tell us of your experiences and comment your reactions below! Feel free to send us your stories here: team@allthingsdnd.com or post it directly on our website www.allthingsdnd.com. You can check out more narrated stories here: bit.ly/ATDNarratedStories Like watching animated stories? Check them out here: bit.ly/ATDAnimatedStories Have fun watching our videos and stay subscribed for more amazing DnD content!
It's a great story but you butchered the Irish girl name. Caoimhe is pronounced Keeva Niamh is pronounced Neev Sorry,but but it really peeved me.......
Legit watched all three parts today, and I swear this was a emotional journey. I almost cried. I've never been so attached to a d&d character in my life.
For one, the name, Astoshan, is absolutely amazing. Secondly, his backstory is so damn deep and cool. Necromancy is my favorite school of magic, but every game always makes it so weak and disappointing. The Necromancy spell list for 3.5e is absolutely insane though, and it makes me want to talk to my dm to see if he’ll run a campaign in 3.5e, or at least allow the use of spells from it. But all that’s besides the point. I was wondering how Astoshan started out as a multi class between a True Necromancer and Pale Master? If he did in the first place. Did the DM start you guys out at an elevated level when starting the campaign? Either way, that’s an absolutely awesome combination making for a super powerful Necromancer build. Something worthy to be called a boss character honestly.
@@felixlavulpe3506 I am DMing a new campaign and would love to feature Astoshan as the BBEG; however, he is only the pawn of the Glory, the real BBEG...or Lyeneru, the True BBEG...or her husband...so many options...I would love to have this discussion with you.
A "chin" is something that's part of your face. Someone who is part of your "kin" is someone who's part of your bloodline. If you're gonna complain about spelling somewhere, make sure you're right ;P
More of this. More long stories. This is something I can listen too while getting things done around the house or gaining inspiration for my own games. 10/10 will always recommend this channel
I really love this character and his story its heartwarming yet gives me goosebumps this is an excellent story and technically to me the introduction to what I would consider a sub-class for necromancers
Amazing narration as always! The reading of the some of the names took me out a bit though but just in a minor way. I remember watching an interview with Saoirse Ronan and recognized the names of Astoshan’s daughters. Apparently, the correct pronunciations are as follows: Caoimhe - /ˈk(w)iːvə/ K(W)EE-və Niamh - /niːv/ NEEV Still, I love your work! ❤
I don't. I like to see Astoshan as a School of Necromancy Wizard who learned/made some awesome spells and acquired a couple boons from an outside source (his arm and his lich-loved feat). That way, the thing that makes him different isn't a unique set of training, it's how his unique perspective and motivation shaped him.
I believe he's described as being a True/Dread Necromancer (pathfinder) with Pale Master (dnd 3e/3.5 if I'm not mistaken) all mixed together in the pot
I’ve played D&D for 9 years now. Dozens of campaigns. Over 50 characters playing my own PCs. My stories focus on drama and emotion. But I have never heard such a truly beautiful powerful real backstory as this one. This is ASTOUNDING work. Well done, Astoshan’s player, and his DM!! Well done indeed!
The of the story of the grey necromancer in 3rd person: I want to hear more of the story. The story of the grey necromancer in first person: squeal!! Theres more 😆😆!.... now I have to wait for the next part to come out😫.
Probably one of the absolute best stories ever, before this I would go back and listen to part 1 and 2 just because I love this. I would love nothing more for a movie, or series.
I didn't know this was part three but when the city guards were mentioned I was so surprised I remembered them from the gray necromancer series (my favorite) and was so shocked and happy I get to hear more from it. I love this tell. And the necromancer is so amazing.
I think Astoshan is my favorite character ever written. So complex and unique but entirely believable with how much depth is written into his character
wind 369 I pointed that out, and somebody had the AUDACITY to assume I’m a moron. He shall die braver than most, as he confronts the truth. But this was one case he was wrong
Astoshan is how I have portrayed Necromancers for years. You have created a fantastic and fascinating character. Keep up the great work of sharing stories.
Felix LaVulpe a Necromancer could be great for detective work. “Who killed you? What did she look like?” Or a therapist/grief counselor due to giving others more time with their loved ones to say goodbye properly
I have so many questions. Too many: Is he a Cleric? A Wizard? How did you build Aztoshan (spelling?)? Also; Where did it come from? Pathfinder, 5e DND?
A bit of both I suppose. He is cleric in name but refuses to use or pursue that path because he wants his doing to be within his own power and feels that only then he can be responsible about what he does.
From what I know, while Clerics are more suited to the undead path, the path itself is not closed to other class such as wizard or socceress. For instance, in Neverwinter nights, Clerics get real necromantic spells way before than a wizard can through levels. Such as greater undead can be attained by clerics while Wizard would have to settle at create undead. Clerics too can cast inflict minor wounds up to "harm" while wizards and their kin would only have negative energy burst and its predecessor to be able to heal their undeads.
Contrary to its nature, Liches are more of spellcasters than necromancers if you take a look at the spells or miracles they may have while being an undead, themselves.
Omg. I love this character! In my years I've never seen a character of this quality, this backstory. Makes me really miss my 3.5 Elven sorcerer illusionist ( shadow themed ) mostly necronancy and illusion magic. Shadow conjuration spells were amazing!
I've loved the Astoshan stories so far as it continues to remind me how in depth my friend's Necromancer is in my game, and now hearing his backstory and this also tied a bit of the other stories in as part of it, only makes it like this fictional character is an actual person that we could all have a drink with. Please don't let Astoshan die, it's quite difficult to find characters that have this much depth. Too many people just play a min/max'd creation with a name and a fist full of dice, but few actually have real stories to what they are playing and why it's played the way it is. Thank you for this and I do look forward to more.
Astoshan would probably not be able to die with his powers. Although, I think that being a common person that he initially was. He would want to rest too after some time. The video actually told us that he ascended to Godhood, didn't it?
@@dyanaforest7174 I think I meant die more in the sense of fading into forgotten pages in a dusty 3 ring binder, but if he's not already at godhood I'd say he's pretty damn close for sure! His story is just too in depth to let fade away like most characters seem to
Astoshan has always been a thrill to me as I rewatch his previous stories and add fuel to the fire of my desires to play D&D. I know that even if I ask, it may not be a possible request to fulfill, but with my leaving on Tuesday for basic, I would be absolutely thrilled to hear the whole of his Epic before Im gone from its reaches for several months. Kudos to the creator of Astoshan and thank you for bringing the tale to my reach to hear, All Things D&D.
I had always deterred myself from fantasy because they lacked explanations since it's hard to define what magic is. Among my interests are humans, their struggles and achievements. It came to me that most unique classifications are inferior to armies. Thus, the closest of that is necromancy. Be careful because there are games very close to DnD that gives me a frown because it could not make it virtually possible to satisfy my want of an ideal necromancer. Playing necromancer in Neverwinter nights, you can only summon one undead which is a farcry of what a necromancer should be. It slightly irks me when I learn that necromancy is closer to divinations than arcane though. I was never interested into religions and its machinations.
For me, Astoshan has become one of the most compellingly written/RPed necromancers ever made, as well as the template for "How to be a proactive True Neutral" I can't wait for more!
For a second i thought there would be a connection between astoshan and the old lich story with his undead world, and the murderhobo's that ended it. But that's a whole different game. And Astoshan deserves a wayy better end. :D
Story continues to be easily one of the best Dungeons & Dragons stories I've ever come across. Certainly the best Necromancer story I've ever encountered. It's so lovely and refreshing to have such a quality flawed organic genuine seeming story, especially one that isn't just more I am evil I make Undead bleh. All hail the neutral necromancer.
@@elib9002 they literally said that he and the lich performed rituals that were intended for the lovers And Astoshan explained to Alfhilda and she said she understood but he sensed her sadness Why else would she be sad? She wasn't the jealous type, not jealous of a new mentor. He's had mentors take his attention before. But he'd never performed lover's rituals with mentors before either.
He was in love with his wife; his female lich mentor wanted her husband to join her in unlife. It wasn't cheating. It was more like a work-related bromance where two guys spend a lot of time together probably failing the male equivalent of the Bechdel test (if there is one) on a daily basis because each of them is all about their respective SOs.
Is it possible that this could become an actual lore book, that other dungeon masters can add into their story as miniature lore? Perhaps even being something that could inspire other necromancer player characters, and teach them valuable lessons in necromancy?
I was annoyed at the cliff hanger until I remembered I wrote it.
goddamn
AHAH XD That's kida silly x)
_When your cliffhanger is so good it even annoys you._
MORE!!
*BACKSTORY WRITING 100*
Have you heard the tragedy of Astoshan The Grey? I thought not. It's not a story the wizards would tell you.
He was so wise, so powerful thay he could even control the arcana to create life...
He had such a knowledge of necromancy, he could keep the ones he cared about from dying.
@@Rick_Harper Ironic, he could save the loved ones from death...
@@attacheli9591 but not himself.
Is it possible to learn this power?
DM: "this tome contains no power or spells.."
Party: *YEET*
MFinGonzo hhahahaha so fuckin true. That had me dying of laughter xD
That book lies, 3/4 of the way through theres a simplified version of creating the deathless im sure its obtainable to a creative and thorough necromancer. 😈
Perhaps he didn't want anyone unworthy from reading further.
Two days ago I had intended for my party to read an NPC's journal which contained a very emotional backstory which took a number of hours to write. They killed the NPC and ripped the used pages out of his journal and sold the rest.
First Name Last Name that must've sucked dude.
Listening about his twins and then remembering the scene where he is singing a lullaby to the dying child. Such an amazing character.
Oh god
Story of Astoshan the Gray needs to be animated into a movie
Yassss
A movie or a book
@@williamherchenroeder6923 book
I feel like it should directed similar to cathedral at sea
Synnastyr Kuhr No. book first, then a movie
I love Astoshan. With all the darkness and death surrounding him he still loves his wife, kids, deity, and work. A man to look up to.
When a necromancer just wants to make a home for his extended family. Truely touching.
Considering his skeletal hand, you may not want that.
True that would be panful
Lichloved: Feat.
By repeatedly committing perverted sex acts with the undead, the character gains dread powers.
Benefit: Mindless undead see the character as an undead creature. Becoming more and more like an actual undead creature, he gains a +1 circumstance bonus on saving throws against mind-affecting effects, poison, sleep, paralysis, stunning and disease.
...that's a real feat?
@@bradleymoore2797 yes, it's necessary for some prestige class.
Also mass murderer and controlling people
Legit, why is a story about a necromancer who's joined 2 different cults actually really sweet?
Yeah, I love how it's not filled to the brim with deaths of his wife, his children, etc. It's very balanced.
Because Necromancers are amazing.
And becouse Who Astoshan is. If he was a plain normal Necro, he whuld be like the rest. but this? this is more like a Book, written by an expirianced writer.
Is it? I think it is pretty mediocre this time and serves all the MarySue clichees I always suspected.
But lately Astoshan becomes an interesting character.
@@FreedomAndPeaceOnly Perspective's Choice. But i repect it.
Getting his whole backstory like this is crazy, can't wait for more
hey isnt this the story from a while ago? like when he too over a company
Mark Alvarado i think what your thinking of is a video detailing Astoshans time with his adventuring party and how he defended a village with his many crypts of undead
@@markalvarado4450 yes it is. This video shows Astoshans background,motives, story of how he became what he was
Death is not the greatest loss of life. It's what dies inside of us while we live
Inside us.
Around us.
Forming us.
In a way this cruel fate leaves a small note of kindness. Until our last death, we will probably be so dead inside we will welcome it.
Damn. That's deep
... So death is the greatest loss, no deepness here.
@@Meteor2022 I dunno, I actually starting to believe earlier death is better than long life.
it is a loss, but not for the one who died. unless they really wanted some more time in the world.
@@darklusare7582 Fast reply time. Death is literally the greatest loss of life. Literally. You cannot lose more life than would result in your death.
"too many people, too many buildings, so much waste."
PREACH.
*casually browsing before break ends*
"Narrated D&D Story: How Astoshan Beca-"
*INSTACLICK*
*break goes long*
Oops.
*explains why to supervisor, who an hour and a half later agrees*
Lol
so true...
Called out xD
@@michaelsorensen7567 sometimes there are things worth fighting for
👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
"Perhaps you have taken the grey"
You can't say these things while i'm playing Dragon Age Origins...
I'm playing inquisition right now lol whooooooo
@@DynamismImpulse i played inqui a boatload of times, and settled for an elf knight enchanter that's so OP it's not even funny.
Cassandra reading smut is still funny tho.
Dragon Age 😍
DAs epic story ended at origins.
Reference?
"Even in death, we shall defend..."
Ulyanin it’s “EVEN IN DEATH, I SHALL PROTECT”
M
@@chaoitcdie6444 I suck at quoting. x_x
Deathless: I shall die a thousand deaths before I yield.
A very neat quote from the first video: "Our service, eternal. Our sacrifice, infinite. Our regrets, absent."
This video puts the previous two in a WHOLE new perspective.
That's the goal. Suddenly everything makes sense.
this story had me from the first episode. so glad he continued the story instead of leaving off like he planed.
His mystery was what really mad him cool in tge first story and that's what I really enjoyed about it last time
What are the other episodes? The other of the necromancer on a chair holding a heart? If not, pls let me know the url of the videos
@@isentaic The links to the first two parts are in the description of the video.
I want to get the stats for that "Create Deathless" spell.
I explained it in detail like that so others could homebrew it.
I am definitely going to be trying to make this spell for my dragonborn wizard that is studying to become a necromancer. He hopes to find a answer for is haunted background
Felix LaVulpe I must find where you did it. I already have an eladrin rogue and a drow cleric, but after this I desire a necromancer so bad that I’m willing to punch time itself to go back and have one from the get go
@@felixlavulpe3506
Sure did, it is in the combination of spells.
Kiernan Rogers
This is something you have to go over with the DM. My group, some who have been playing since 1st edition, believes in the rule of cool. Some DMs may not be comfortable with the added challanges something like this creates.
Hedgie The Umbrehog ...he explained it in detail in the video. 25:10 for full context.
NPC: "What did you start adventuring for Astoshan?"
Astoshan: "Love..."
NPC: "What did you sacrifice along the way?"
Astoshan: "Everything."
I loved this. I almost forgot who Astoshan was for a few moments.
I can't believe he's in his forty's, I thought He was a teen!
@@skeletundra- Thank you!
Astoshan physically aged until his 70's. I don't like characters that are super high level when they're really young, makes the whole lifetime of learning irrelevant.
@@felixlavulpe3506 I have three technically two young mages. One is a child prodigy and the other two are warlocks who are still learning their magic and thus only have 2 spell slots and limited spells.
A slow burn can make all the difference.
I have been loving this particular series and even turn other players to it when they question why NPC Necromancers arent always evil.
DM: "... you will find no spells or power within these pages."
All Players: "Can I use detect magic?! There's gotta be something in these pages to make me stronger."
There is: The history of a broken man's life can teach many things.
Kind of the dark, edgy version of "love is its own reward."
Although, both have seriously good applications, all joking aside.
knowledge...process...history...
its the power of friendship!
The only magic in the tome is just the usual enchantments one uses to keep the thing intact after centuries of exposure to the elements. Protection against fire, ice, the works.
It takes the "shovel of genuine appreciation" for the original comment to lead to these gems.
I wonder how Astoshan's party would react when he asked if they want to meet his family
Probably first reaction is "you have a family that you're in touch with?" Second is "no it's probably some creepy undead shit"
Necromancy is the best way to 'raise' a family.
They'd think they were about to meet a bunch of undead and then see two living, beautiful twin girls come running, happy to see their dad. At least one person would faint and the rest would need a minute to recover
Followed by the surprise that astoshan has a family that isn't dead and the police to be calling bulls**t and demanding that he shows the legal documents only to not believe them.
Only the dwarf knew, nobody else bothered to ask about it.
Straight up, as cheesy as it sounds, this would be AWESOME as a series on Netflix or something!
Sadly netflix would make it into some emo love story.
Netflix would never do it, I'm a historical nut and they wouldn't want to pay for my realism. Sword fights would be a few seconds, the barbarians would use tactics, the characters aren't pants-on-head retarded, bad guys actually have motives.
@@felixlavulpe3506 However if the stories were written up well enough you might get a series that moderately to severely butchers the story in a few decades, look at the Shannara Chronicles.
@@felixlavulpe3506 that's why I love individual animations way much more.
Yessssss
Astoshan and Alfhilda are a match made in heaven. The epic saga of Astoshan truly is a legend to be remembered.
The school of necromancy can lead to many abilities some even considered... unnatural
But so what arcane. It is not natural and twists the laws of the world. I wondr why was the undying are mostly frowned upon on by most faith?
Is it possible to learn this power?
star wars reference :)
@@Andre-gn4sj Not from an Orcite.
@@lindennis4522 not from 2020 apparently xD
The thought of a young girl playing with zombies and dressing them up is absolutely adorable
"Shan, where's my green dress?"
"Wandering through floor six. It has your necklace too."
The daughter names at the start are pronounced "Qeeva" and "Neeav". They are Irish names.
My Irish ass was gonna correct it. Thank you. 🤣🤣
Same 😂 it was really jarring to hear them pronounced like that
I was looking for this comment. My last name was originally spelled Caomhánach, pronounced Cav-nuh.
to all of you, Maybe Author of this story knows better how to pronounce names of characters of this story. Don't you think?
@@MsKeylas Hi. Wasn't expecting a reply after three years, but just to make a few clarifications 1. I'm Irish, born and raised. 2. These are Irish names. 3. I personally know multiple people with these names. 4. You do know that All things DnD isn't the author, right? They just do readings, like Crit Crab.
Astoshan's story has had me on the edge of my seat. I cannot wait for more, such a fascinating character. 🖤
This a great story. Good motivation, I especially like that he and his lady love found common ground and understanding even despite the divide of religions.
I'm known amongst my circle of players as THE necromancer. I have been fond of the class and its trappings for a long time. I have had many a discussion about the morality of necromancy and necromantic magic with my friends. I will argue that necromancy isn't evil until my dying day. Negative energy and life manipulation is little different from what an evoker does, just a different source. Undead, while dangerous, ARE naturally occurring creatures in a fantasy setting. The need supervision and containment, certainly. and can be ruinous if left unattended and uncontrolled, but they are hardly unnatural. Ghosts are a prime example.
My personal area of interest is the soul. Its construction, makeup, origins, destination. all of it.
If you look at magic in a fantasy setting, it may as well represent science or technology in our own... Practically speaking, anyone can use the mechanical rules to implement it in-game, so there's no relevant difference.
Necromancy may have a LOT to do with raising undead and the like... BUT it IS also the school that grants wizards access to Healing spells... all the way back to 1e.
SO the principles are neutral. What the CASTER is doing is tantamount to either Good or Evil... and that on the PC/NPC, not the school or the magic itself. ;o)
In my campaign, vampires are souls who are forbidden entrance to the afterlife, and bound by their curse to roam the material plane feeding on the living. But how they use their powers and what they decide to do with them is up to the vampire. Most succumb to hopelessness and despair, and believe they have no choice but to become evil monsters of destruction. But some rare few refuse to fall down the dark path, and cling to the humanity they once had, using their powers to help others instead of hurt them. One of these, Lovan, is my favorite character.
@@Aelanna In my discussions, entrapment of the soul is a big marker as to whether or not making an undead is really evil. Trapping a soul against its will is evil, full stop.
I see most zombie/skeleton undead as being negative energy puppets basically. I like advanced skeletons personally.
@@alexiuscastrum Yes, in the case of my vampires, most of the time it is done against their will by another vampire. It usually ends up with one of the two destroying the other in time. Sometimes someone will see out a vampire, wanting to become one for whatever reason. This usually ends badly as well.
@@Aelanna Still a D&D-esque game, but in ours, the Vampire (and a few other intelligent undead) are partly the result of warring factions of Deities... Some of the "Good" (life, light, etc) are refusing entry to souls "perverted" on the Prime Material...
Some "Bad" (destruction, dark, etc.) are actively engaged in seducing the souls refused from the "Heavens"... which is how some of these undead gain powers...
The result is that we have some Vampires actively trying to reach redemption... Some losing hope (or adopting power-hungry practices to stay Earthbound)... AND some in servitude to the Dark entities, actively gaining power for the devastation and chaos they can create.
Not sure why, but it seemed like you might find this interesting... maybe inspiring for another dimension to your game (regardless of how exactly)... Just a thought. ;o)
This is literally the best character backstory I've ever heard
We finally know how he became the Gray Necromancer
What are Necromancers normally?
Black? Dark? Edgy? ;)
I see more "Grey/Gray/Neutral" etc. Darklords lately as anything else.
Astoshan is late in the scene.
If a decade earlier he would have been a sight to behold.
But now "goodhearted evil guys" are the edgy norm.
Since this is a cliffhanger and we only know half the story, your statement is a half-truth. So far. (Matter of time til you're 100% right!)
Stay tuned for the epic conclusion and please tell us of your experiences and comment your reactions below!
Feel free to send us your stories here: team@allthingsdnd.com or post it directly on our website www.allthingsdnd.com.
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bit.ly/ATDNarratedStories
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bit.ly/ATDAnimatedStories
Have fun watching our videos and stay subscribed for more amazing DnD content!
Is there a date for such conclusion ?
Been listening to all your narrated DnD episodes; Astoshan: The Gray Necromancer, is definitely my favorite compilation.
It's a great story but you butchered the Irish girl name.
Caoimhe is pronounced Keeva
Niamh is pronounced Neev
Sorry,but but it really peeved me.......
All Things DnD so how does the wife die?
Legit watched all three parts today, and I swear this was a emotional journey. I almost cried. I've never been so attached to a d&d character in my life.
For one, the name, Astoshan, is absolutely amazing. Secondly, his backstory is so damn deep and cool. Necromancy is my favorite school of magic, but every game always makes it so weak and disappointing. The Necromancy spell list for 3.5e is absolutely insane though, and it makes me want to talk to my dm to see if he’ll run a campaign in 3.5e, or at least allow the use of spells from it.
But all that’s besides the point. I was wondering how Astoshan started out as a multi class between a True Necromancer and Pale Master? If he did in the first place. Did the DM start you guys out at an elevated level when starting the campaign?
Either way, that’s an absolutely awesome combination making for a super powerful Necromancer build. Something worthy to be called a boss character honestly.
This story is fucking amazing and so worth the wait. The author should write a book! Gimme a thumbs up if you agree and hopefully who knows!
This needs to be made into a movie or TV series. The whole thing is just an amazing story and I loved every moment of it!
I'm going to stick this book in my campaign as a easter egg
As will I
Do it... I also will Sent this video to my DM and hope he adds it somewhere...
Be my guest, you can even throw in the city. Next episode will explain it in detail.
@@felixlavulpe3506 I am DMing a new campaign and would love to feature Astoshan as the BBEG; however, he is only the pawn of the Glory, the real BBEG...or Lyeneru, the True BBEG...or her husband...so many options...I would love to have this discussion with you.
I don't think you understand how excited I was for part 3 and it didn't disappoint.
THAT WAS AMAZING!!!! HE HAS KIDS! THAT JUST SOOOO COOL
“Perhaps you are of my chin”
Subtitles: perhaps you are of my kin
Me: hmmm...
A "chin" is something that's part of your face.
Someone who is part of your "kin" is someone who's part of your bloodline.
If you're gonna complain about spelling somewhere, make sure you're right ;P
n RealKC *facepalms* I was pointing out the audio. I know what was intended.
Just gonna correct you for failing to understand a joke on a somber video
@@flyingturret208thecannon5 oh, sorry for sounding condescending then
@@deadbyte8086 you're the first person I saw on UA-cam to apologize for this
@@deadbyte8086 nearly referenced a subreddit there
More of this. More long stories. This is something I can listen too while getting things done around the house or gaining inspiration for my own games. 10/10 will always recommend this channel
I really love this character and his story its heartwarming yet gives me goosebumps this is an excellent story and technically to me the introduction to what I would consider a sub-class for necromancers
This is lowkey edgy necromancer done perfectly, mad props to the author
Just enough edge to remind you he's not good.
Amazing narration as always! The reading of the some of the names took me out a bit though but just in a minor way. I remember watching an interview with Saoirse Ronan and recognized the names of Astoshan’s daughters. Apparently, the correct pronunciations are as follows:
Caoimhe - /ˈk(w)iːvə/ K(W)EE-və
Niamh - /niːv/ NEEV
Still, I love your work! ❤
I just want his custom class
Right!
I don't. I like to see Astoshan as a School of Necromancy Wizard who learned/made some awesome spells and acquired a couple boons from an outside source (his arm and his lich-loved feat).
That way, the thing that makes him different isn't a unique set of training, it's how his unique perspective and motivation shaped him.
I believe he's described as being a True/Dread Necromancer (pathfinder) with Pale Master (dnd 3e/3.5 if I'm not mistaken) all mixed together in the pot
I’ve played D&D for 9 years now. Dozens of campaigns. Over 50 characters playing my own PCs. My stories focus on drama and emotion. But I have never heard such a truly beautiful powerful real backstory as this one. This is ASTOUNDING work. Well done, Astoshan’s player, and his DM!! Well done indeed!
It threw me for a loop to learn that he had a family and that they are still alive by the end of this video.
The of the story of the grey necromancer in 3rd person: I want to hear more of the story.
The story of the grey necromancer in first person: squeal!! Theres more 😆😆!.... now I have to wait for the next part to come out😫.
I was scrolling through my home feed and saw Astoshan. I clicked on it instantly.
This was a truly captivating tale! Not merely a tale of revenge but of a mind numbed first by the horror they had seen.
Probably one of the absolute best stories ever, before this I would go back and listen to part 1 and 2 just because I love this. I would love nothing more for a movie, or series.
Astoshan is amazing. Who would like to see an animated or live show based on this?
I didn't know this was part three but when the city guards were mentioned I was so surprised I remembered them from the gray necromancer series (my favorite) and was so shocked and happy I get to hear more from it. I love this tell. And the necromancer is so amazing.
I think Astoshan is my favorite character ever written. So complex and unique but entirely believable with how much depth is written into his character
Love these videos man. Your way of telling a story is great.
Now THAT’S a backstory! A really enthralling tale. I look forward to more!
I would love to see this in the form of a graphic novel or tv series
Just starting; 30 minutes of ashtoshan?! Now thats a treat, thank you!!
I would love if we had more multi part stories like this and the father daughter story.
I love this idea of composite spellcasting, going to have to find a way to work this into future games.
I was really into the storie so much in fact that I missed my bus stop cant wait for the next part!!!!!!
“Perhaps you are me perhaps you are my chin” he says XD
wind 369 I pointed that out, and somebody had the AUDACITY to assume I’m a moron. He shall die braver than most, as he confronts the truth.
But this was one case he was wrong
Yea people don’t pay attention at times and stuff like that happens
May the god bless this necromancer.
This is how you make a good mancer
Simply amazing. All that can be said about Astoshan
Your way of story telling is brilliant and I love this tale of the grey necromancer. I can't wait to hear the rest!
about every six months i come back to watch this series. as a dm writing a campaign. this is the level of storytelling and life i aspire to.
Probably my favorite series on this channel!!
Astoshan is, far and above, my favorite D&D story. Please keep them coming!
I love the connection to the previous stories at the end.
The next one picks up in the middle of the two stories as well.
Among all the the story´s I have listened to on this channel when it comes to characters, Astoshan is may favorite character hands down yo.
Oh yeah, it’s all coming together.
This is a brilliantly told story. Simply amazing.
Basically, The Gray Necromancer: Origins.
Nice.
Not disappointed, well done Felix LaVulpe, well done.
This story is way too amazing yet again. Can't wait to hear the rest of it.
I love this story arc. Well done and thank you.
Goddamn, this whole character's story needs to be turned into a movie or a novel or somethin.
Astoshan is how I have portrayed Necromancers for years. You have created a fantastic and fascinating character. Keep up the great work of sharing stories.
Thank you! I always got tired of the evil mustache twirling necromancer, I wanted one that did what he did for a reason.
Felix LaVulpe a Necromancer could be great for detective work. “Who killed you? What did she look like?” Or a therapist/grief counselor due to giving others more time with their loved ones to say goodbye properly
And here is thought my idea of two casters becoming liches together for eternal love was totally unique :x
Saw "Astoshan" and nearly screamed! I've been waiting for this story's progression!
I have so many questions. Too many:
Is he a Cleric? A Wizard? How did you build Aztoshan (spelling?)?
Also; Where did it come from? Pathfinder, 5e DND?
A bit of both I suppose. He is cleric in name but refuses to use or pursue that path because he wants his doing to be within his own power and feels that only then he can be responsible about what he does.
From what I know, while Clerics are more suited to the undead path, the path itself is not closed to other class such as wizard or socceress. For instance, in Neverwinter nights, Clerics get real necromantic spells way before than a wizard can through levels. Such as greater undead can be attained by clerics while Wizard would have to settle at create undead. Clerics too can cast inflict minor wounds up to "harm" while wizards and their kin would only have negative energy burst and its predecessor to be able to heal their undeads.
Contrary to its nature, Liches are more of spellcasters than necromancers if you take a look at the spells or miracles they may have while being an undead, themselves.
3.5 and Pathfinder, he was a True/Dread Necromancer/Pale Master multiclass.
@@felixlavulpe3506 who is the glory? I mean which goddess goes by that name?
Omg. I love this character! In my years I've never seen a character of this quality, this backstory. Makes me really miss my 3.5 Elven sorcerer illusionist ( shadow themed ) mostly necronancy and illusion magic. Shadow conjuration spells were amazing!
To quote Attack of the Clones, in regards to the RAIDERS...
"They're like animals, so I slaughtered them like animals."
Can't tell ya how happy I am to see this in the right column, watching tomorrow.
Evil Lord Goge?
Lord Evil Doge.
Angery
@@bg3622 heckin maadd
@Comstar: Space AT&T glad to see im not the only person who made that connection.
Awesome backstory! I love necromancer builds but i think Astoshan is by far my favorite story
I love how Niamh was pronounced here. XD It's actually pronounced like "neev", but this is so great..
I've loved the Astoshan stories so far as it continues to remind me how in depth my friend's Necromancer is in my game, and now hearing his backstory and this also tied a bit of the other stories in as part of it, only makes it like this fictional character is an actual person that we could all have a drink with. Please don't let Astoshan die, it's quite difficult to find characters that have this much depth. Too many people just play a min/max'd creation with a name and a fist full of dice, but few actually have real stories to what they are playing and why it's played the way it is. Thank you for this and I do look forward to more.
Astoshan would probably not be able to die with his powers. Although, I think that being a common person that he initially was. He would want to rest too after some time. The video actually told us that he ascended to Godhood, didn't it?
@@dyanaforest7174 I think I meant die more in the sense of fading into forgotten pages in a dusty 3 ring binder, but if he's not already at godhood I'd say he's pretty damn close for sure! His story is just too in depth to let fade away like most characters seem to
I feel like Wizards should make this character cannon in some campaign.
Astoshan has always been a thrill to me as I rewatch his previous stories and add fuel to the fire of my desires to play D&D. I know that even if I ask, it may not be a possible request to fulfill, but with my leaving on Tuesday for basic, I would be absolutely thrilled to hear the whole of his Epic before Im gone from its reaches for several months. Kudos to the creator of Astoshan and thank you for bringing the tale to my reach to hear, All Things D&D.
This story makes me want to play a Necromancer... just hope I can be as awsome
I had always deterred myself from fantasy because they lacked explanations since it's hard to define what magic is. Among my interests are humans, their struggles and achievements. It came to me that most unique classifications are inferior to armies. Thus, the closest of that is necromancy. Be careful because there are games very close to DnD that gives me a frown because it could not make it virtually possible to satisfy my want of an ideal necromancer. Playing necromancer in Neverwinter nights, you can only summon one undead which is a farcry of what a necromancer should be. It slightly irks me when I learn that necromancy is closer to divinations than arcane though. I was never interested into religions and its machinations.
I love Astoshan so much.
I already loved necromancers and such types, but this specific character makes me love them more !
Niamh is pronounced 'neev' and caiomhe is 'keeva'
For me, Astoshan has become one of the most compellingly written/RPed necromancers ever made, as well as the template for "How to be a proactive True Neutral"
I can't wait for more!
For a second i thought there would be a connection between astoshan and the old lich story with his undead world, and the murderhobo's that ended it.
But that's a whole different game.
And Astoshan deserves a wayy better end. :D
Story continues to be easily one of the best Dungeons & Dragons stories I've ever come across. Certainly the best Necromancer story I've ever encountered. It's so lovely and refreshing to have such a quality flawed organic genuine seeming story, especially one that isn't just more I am evil I make Undead bleh. All hail the neutral necromancer.
His poor wife.. I would be heartbroken if the man I loved cheated on me. Much less with a LICH
But he didn't cheat on her. He found a friend and mentor who shared his views, and they also both loved the fuck out of their respective partners.
Yah. He didn't cheat. It was a very deep kindred condition that they shared.
@@elib9002 they literally said that he and the lich performed rituals that were intended for the lovers
And Astoshan explained to Alfhilda and she said she understood but he sensed her sadness
Why else would she be sad?
She wasn't the jealous type, not jealous of a new mentor. He's had mentors take his attention before. But he'd never performed lover's rituals with mentors before either.
He was in love with his wife; his female lich mentor wanted her husband to join her in unlife. It wasn't cheating. It was more like a work-related bromance where two guys spend a lot of time together probably failing the male equivalent of the Bechdel test (if there is one) on a daily basis because each of them is all about their respective SOs.
@@tautau1a Cali is right. Astoshan and his wife themselves felt it was cheating, so it was.
Man.... He was never evil in the first place. I hope everything turns out right for him in the end
Is it possible that this could become an actual lore book, that other dungeon masters can add into their story as miniature lore? Perhaps even being something that could inspire other necromancer player characters, and teach them valuable lessons in necromancy?
Man! Astoshan is hands down the best Necro, EVER. Legit would treat him with reverence.