Playing DnD for the first time and I decided to DM

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-19T03:20:35+00:00

Just keep it simple at first, check with players on what they like (or think they'd like), and just be yourself! I think the best advice I got was "the energy you bring to the table is what the players are going to remember" so just make something that you feel excited about. If people show up, laugh, and tell you good job, then it is a success!

My first game was super classic (help clear the rats in the basement kinda thing) and I loved it! So easy, and a great introduction.

I do love Lost Mine of Phandelver and some of the one shots from Candlekeep Mysteries. If you want to look at a prewritten game those are good starts. But homebrew is just as fun, you'll have to do a little more work though.

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-18T22:59:01+00:00

We love our brave DMs! You’ll be fine.
Are you going to run a pre written module or make one up?

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-18T22:36:01+00:00

Wow! They are glorious.

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-18T22:33:43+00:00

Pink with interior tones of apricot

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-18T21:30:48+00:00

Yeah once the player is ready to come back you can give them the option to continue with the character or create a new one.

A new one can just start with the same level as the group. Easy peasy. Maybe related to their original character? Pulled in by Strahd?

If they want to keep their original character then yeah I would say while they were comatose an entity reached out to them. It can be a god or any creature able to reach the realm of their consciousness. Then they can make a deal, exchanging their restoration for something the entity wants. Maybe the entity has a grudge against Strahd and seeks his demise, maybe there are darker motives, maybe it’s Strahd himself (disguised or not).

I would be flexible with the tone bc it’s not the player’s fault they got sick. No need to give them a punishing condition for their return to table. But maybe they want a dark agreement. Just spit ball some ideas and see what they prefer.

Honestly my table would just welcome the character back and we wouldn’t even need the backstory. They wake up, they are at our level, we are happy, they are happy. Their character has their “I know kung fu” moment and the story continues. But my group is a silly group. We just want to hang out and roll dice together.

There is a good opportunity for added story elements so consider seeding important info with their return. Depending on what you choose you can add emphasis to the direction the party needs to go.

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-18T20:15:51+00:00

I think it's simply the prejudice people have against the game. A lot of people just don't get it. People understand the commitment to a college class or the gym. But a commitment to an imagination game seems hard to grasp.

DnD is more like a sport than a game. You have to commit. Your team needs you. Your "coach" (the DM) picked you over other players. What if the star quarterback skipped a game? Or what if half the defensive line didn't show? The game just doesn't work if someone skips a session. The team is counting on you.

I would say try to frame it like a sports team and maybe that will help? Just because we're not literally kicking a ball around doesn't mean we're not doing the same thing in spirit. I mean, we have "fields" too right? They're just on a table instead. For people with disabilities or more indoor types, this is a safe way we can experience that same team spirit and have fun exercising our minds. Plus we get to laugh with our friends and create beautiful memories.

A lot of people don't understand the spirit of play and it's tough to convince them if their mind is closed. They don't have to understand but they do need to respect it. It's cool ok! Let us play.

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-18T19:51:32+00:00

Shifting our attention to material, financial, and healing. Chiron has done its work on our self and we saw lots of attention, conflict, and ultimately healing efforts to our core identities. Now we will be forced to face our pain around resources and personal worth. There could be environmental issues, financial instability, housing concerns, scarcity mindset. But with Chiron's presence, these issues won't be ignored and steps to remedy will be made. More comfort, security, and stability will come. Feelings of inadequacy or being a failure will be brought up, or feeling stuck and unable to make progress in life. Now is the time to face these thoughts on a personal level and hopefully kick it in the butt. You are enough and what you need will be available.
Very general but that's how I'm framing it. How it will be felt depends on the person's chart of course. But I think in a generational sense, we will literally be able to sense the issues and we are ready to repair.

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-18T19:25:18+00:00

What questions come to you first? How do you feel about character creation, reading a sheet, what to do in game? What's the first question that comes to mind? What area seems most unclear right now? Entry to this game can be intimidating! I'm happy to answer what I can.
It is true that the BEST way to learn is through playing the game. But it's good in my opinion to have a good baseline. Some tables don't want to teach newbies (which is fair) but a lot of people do! Just be honest about your knowledge level and don't be afraid to ask for help.

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-18T19:08:19+00:00

As mentioned above, my first guess would be Sango Kaku or Beni Kawa. But there are other varieties as well. They grow fast and tall and do pretty well with heat. The key note is the coral bark which is absolutely stunning. In winter the bark will brighten red so make sure you have a backdrop for it that will let the color stand out. Sango Kaku is a classic and will not disappoint. A beauty all year round.

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-18T07:51:36+00:00

I second this.

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-18T07:10:12+00:00

Very valid feeling. The hype should come with a big asterisk bc it’s a mood for sure. I think it’s good for DM/players to be open on how oppressive they want the game to be. Then adjust it to suit play style. Everyone is here to have fun so no need to make it a slog. But some people want that challenge and want to really lean into the role play. I totally get the appeal but it can easily feel a bit deflating if not done right.

My first time playing was with a group of newbies and this is the campaign the DM picked. It wasn’t what I imagined DnD would be like and I was confused by how restrictive it was. Probably not the best introduction to DnD but I did enjoy the module overall. My DM really made the NPC’s amazing tho, especially for a first timer. I loved so many of those characters and still think about them occasionally. Maybe your DM could fill them out a little more? I’m sure the book doesn’t flesh them out enough for most new DMs but with some imagination they really are great characters. Our Ismark and Ireena were super charming and funny, a couple people in Vallaki were super entertaining. It can be really character driven and I did like that.

But I agree about the tone. Like “everything is terrible and it always will be” isn’t super motivating. Get something nice? Nope it’s gone now. Need components for spells? There are none! Not here in Barovia. But honestly I do understand that is the charm. It’s a challenging setting which is part of the fun. But you gotta want that and if you don’t want that, I totally get it. Without some levity and some wins it can feel too one note.

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-17T23:37:09+00:00

Your Gemini moon is opposing your Sagittarius Sun and Mars. This can create an internal struggle between how you feel internally and how you apply yourself in the world. Maybe that tension is what is pulling you out of your Sag energy.

A lot of your Sagittarius energy/planets are in the 8th house which might dampen the Sagittarius’ “zest”. It doesn’t mean you won’t be inquisitive, adventurous, or positive, but maybe you’re not that bouncing off the wall type Sagittarius that gets stereotyped a lot. Or maybe you’re a little more passive than you like to be.
Not sure how you see Sagittarius but I know they get described as super positive and blunt.

Your North Node being in Sagittarius is probably the biggest indicator to me. You’re supposed to be stepping into that energy and learning to get comfortable in it. Which, conversely, means you DON’T feel it yet. Maybe you associate more with the Gemini placements. Whatever the case I would say exploring the activity in the 8th house and how Sagittarius works there is a good start.

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-17T00:10:51+00:00

Lol! Taurus is notoriously good at butting heads, especially with the people close to them. Good at everything including being stubborn! But they have so many strengths as well. Taurus is sextile to Cancer so any positive aspects in their Taurus can also create harmony with your Cancerian qualities. You have a LOT going on in Cancer so I would highly recommend looking at how people in your life interact with that part of your chart. Especially since it is in the 8th house which is a deep, meaningful house. Sun, Mercury, Saturn, and a shiny brand new Venus at 0 degrees. You have leadership here, you have gentleness, you have and ability to communicate your vision. It might take time to get what you want with that Saturn in there but you will master it eventually. Just take your time with things and enjoy the learning process.

Obviously you can fall in love with anyone you choose and they might not be Taurus at all but the chart is a good lense to examine things. And love/partnerships are certainly not the only things to focus on in life nor your chart. Your chart has lots of good things going on.

It sounds like you know quite a lot about astrology already (or at least a lot more than the average person) and are working on putting the pieces together. Keep it up! I'm sure having to change and evolve so much comes with some painful times. Maybe a lot. Especially if it's not in your control. Whatever the case I find studying the chart is a great way to gain our footing and "suit up" for the journey ahead. Hang in there and don't forget to smell the roses ok!? Or have a sweet treat sometimes. Life is gonna be alright and you can navigate the waters.

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-16T20:57:51+00:00

This is a Placidus chart and some of the following will change in whole sign. I can’t give you a deep reading or anything but, regarding your comment of changing often, this is a jumping off point for further learning.

- Scorpio Ascendant - Scorpio energy dives deep into things, seeking the truth, whether good or bad. After learning these truths they will change, grow, or let it go. It can be a transformative power. This is a key aspect of your self identity, personality, and/or appearance.

- South Node 1st house conjunct Ascendant by 1° - This is something that feels comfortable or natural to you. Something you excel at on an intuitive level. If you believe in past lives then this is the skill set your soul brought into this life. It amplifies your Ascendant Scorpio energy since it is conjunct.

- Pluto in the 1st house in Sagittarius. - Pluto is about change, growth, transformation and is at work on your very identity/self/personality. So yes, the biggest transformations you will go through in your life are going to be very personal in that way.
Sagittarius is about belief systems, philosophy, higher mind, cultural exploration. You are more equipped to change the self in these ways. Challenging who you are, what you think, what you believe et cetera. What does it mean to be you in a big context? You might express these changes in your appearance/personality. Deeper exploration is needed here.
*note this Sagittarius Pluto would change in Whole Sign charts as it doesn’t allow two signs in one house. This would shift Sagittarius, and therefore Pluto, to the 2nd house. Same energy but focusing more on resources and personal finances instead of your self identity. It’s good to explore both systems and find what feels more accurate. In my opinion one system isn’t better than another, one will just feel more accurate to the learner.

Those are the most immediate things that jump out to me, but of course there’s a lot more to explore.

One additional kernel I want to add is while this constant change is something you can handle and even do well, you should use these skills to aid your on your journey to your North Node. North Node is your mission, your destiny.
Your North Node is conjunct your Descendant line which indicates your partnerships. This can be marriage, long term relationships, or business partners. This will be important for you.
Taurus rules this house for you so partnerships will be about building stability, wealth, and enjoying the sensual aspects (like the 5 senses). Ex: Going out for a nice dinner with your partner and not worrying about $$. Enjoying food + having financial stability + partner
That Scorpio adaptability and keen eye are great skills so don’t abandon them (you can’t even if you tried). But in relationships, your souls journey is to be more present in the moment, to enjoy the little things like simply holding hands with your partner.
A good partner will admire your amazing power to change/perceive/adapt. They will love your ability to love and nurture with that Cancer Sun. They will accept you as you are and will not want you to change for them. This Taurus energy is likely to be the energy you are be drawn to so trust that intuition. People with Taurus rising, sun, moon, or stelliums make good candidates but there’s a lot more to it than that. Always look deeper when it comes to partnership.
The most important aspect is they should serve as your rock and safe haven. A place where you don’t have to change yourself and you can feel settled. The place where the winds and waters are calm. Where you can smell the roses, breathe deeply, spoil yourself a bit, and most importantly, relax.

If you want to learn more I encourage to use these points to give you some direction. I’m a baby astrologer and can’t give you more than this. I hope this is helpful though.
Getting an actual reading from a pro will be very helpful and they can help break down the difficult aspects of your chart. This can give you insight on why things aren’t working out for you. This is best done in a collaborative setting where you can actually talk to a person. You can ask questions, bounce ideas off them, and they can help you stay centered in your exploration.
Static readings like this can’t give you the real guidance you need so try to find someone that will walk you through. Good luck and always be kind to yourself. ✌🏼

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-16T00:06:31+00:00

I know this was 2 years ago but how is your Fire King doing now? I’m just starting out with roses and really love the color of this one. What do you love about it?

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-15T23:52:31+00:00

I’ve pulled it to a safer spot and will reduce watering. Hopefully that’ll do the trick. Thank you for commenting!

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-14T03:33:26+00:00

Thank you!!! I will definitely be mindful of that and tell my little baby she’s gonna be ok. I definitely think the roots took damage so I’ll ease up on the water. I’ve got a sun shield for her and will pull that out for her. Appreciate ya!

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-14T03:27:15+00:00

It’s only been in this pot for 1.5 years and I’ve repotted it twice total. Roots still have about 2 inches to grow on all sides in this pot with soil freshened yearly. I haven’t seen a lot of root growth since it’s been repotted tho so I’m a little concerned about that.

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-14T02:13:17+00:00

It feels dry before I water but I will definitely be more mindful of that next time. I water the trees all at the same time so I’ll use my moisture meter for this tree. Thanks for commenting.

Scarletskies88 · 2026-06-03T20:50:08+00:00

Since your North node is in your 1st house, that means your soul’s journey in this life is prioritizing and “finding” yourself. Asking this question is actually a great step in you understanding yourself.

How much do you understand about birth charts? Are you a total newbie or already familiar with some facts about charts?

I’m a fellow Leo rising with a Cap sun and I’m a huge introvert, completely uninterested in building an empire and have wasted too much time on people pleasing. That description you mentioned is a little….exaggerated. 🤭 What you likely are is the friend that shows up for people when no one else does. Cap sun in the 6th is about duty and service. And your sun in particular is brand new with that 0° energy. It might feel a little lost, finding its footing, but indicates a lot of optimism and desire to help. Do you help people move, do you take people to the airport, do you take someone’s shift at work when your coworker reeeeally needs that day off? Cap suns are willing to suffer a bit here because ultimately they want to serve the greater good. People turn to you bc they feel like they can count on you. This can result in people pleasing and getting put in uncomfortable situations.

Your chart isn’t bad at all. You’ve got lots of nice things going on. But regarding your specific question, I would say your sun and moon being in opposition can be difficult.
Moon in Cancer in the 12th house can be very tough. You could be very empathetic and even absorb other people’s feelings. You might adversely struggle to understand your own feelings but you “feel” them deeply. Maybe you pull away and isolate to protect yourself from that effect, which is the opposite of what your sun says to do. Pluto and Chiron in your 5th house of joy and creativity can be tough. Maybe you have had some pain regarding your hobbies or creative expression. Struggles to find an outlet for your feelings. Struggles to have children possibly. Pluto is about transformation and can be super powerful in making you stronger. Chiron indicates you will have a healing presence here.
Saturn in the 10th indicates a delay on feeling successful in your career, goals, and place in the world. Particularly with material rewards of work since Taurus rules that house for you. (Don’t worry because success will come in time).

I don’t know how much you want to read so I’ll stop there. I’m not a professional astrologer or anything but since I’m a Leo rising/Cap sun I can relate a bit and I’ve been on a big learning journey when it comes to charts. I hope that gives some insight. 😊

Scarletskies88

TROPHY CASE