Early in the month, Nogard will travel to the island of Ocard where dragons of all types can already be seen migrating to it. A large island filled with clear blue lakes, dense forests, high mountainous cliffs, and even large, rocky platforms that somehow float in the air, it is the perfect place for such mythical creatures to gather, mingle, and hopefully find their mate and brood. While some dragons do remain on the island as permanent residents, the real "keepers" of Ocard are the dragonfolk. Living deep within the forests, they are a race of dragons that come in different sizes and forms, but have less magic and power compared to the larger ones. They help protect the land and ensure it continues to thrive so that the dragons can come and go without issue.

Those from Eltrut and Elah will have access to a special dragon run ship that will cut through the waters and get them there within two days.


This year, several tribes of snakefolk will be traveling to Ocard as "special guests" of sorts. It seems the dragons have always tried to invite their reptilian cousins, and the snakefolk have always been reticent as during the winter months they are less active and prefer to stay in their warmer homes. But enticed by the prospect of gathering rare herbs and gems, a few have managed to "slither" their way over. While most are around as fellow guests and travelers like everyone else, some have decided to take advantage of the opportunity and participate in some way for the festival to show off their tribe's talents. Maintaining their snake origins, they do not have legs, instead using their long tails to slither over the ground, but they do have arms and hands that are more like claws with their sharp nails.


While the festivities of Dragon's Gale are the predominant attraction of Ocard, the island itself holds ample opportunities of resources and locations that visitors can explore… But the dragons will not promise any protection for those who venture further than the designated zones. Although dragons reign supreme, there are other monsters and hazards that can threaten not only non-dragons, but young hatchlings as well. Threats that the dragons will gladly reward those who help deal with them.


It's already known that the dragons tend to side with the Corsairs due to the Armada's affiliation with Nogard, a dragon leviathan, however the snakefolk will be a bit split in their "preferences." While they won't refuse anyone who shows interest, the venomous snakes and illusionists will be most interested in dealing with the Corsairs, offering deals to their services and products to those who like to live a little on the edge of the law, perhaps even share some "secrets"—if their words can be trusted. There's something of a... mutual understanding. The Paladins, on the other hand, will receive bonus perks from the botanists and water serpents, who favour the more peaceful and lawful ways. They will gladly share in some of the rare herbal ingredients, and the serpents will help deal with any rogues that try to escape via ship with illegal goods, especially when it comes to the dragon eggs.

Once again, the dragon eggs are being targeted by thieves who want to either sell them for a high price to collectors, or to zealous chefs who find dragon eggs a delectable ingredient. To make matters worse, the eggs can look like rare treasure. The best way to know which is a real dragon egg is to see if it will absorb elemental magic. Corsairs will be tasked in stopping and retrieving stolen eggs, and any Corsairs caught stealing will be punished even more harshly as there is a pact between the Armada and the dragons.

Meanwhile, with the influx of potions from the snakefolk, the Paladins will have to track down some notorious groups known in dealing with dangerous, toxic poisons. Because the snakefolk may be involved, care must be taken so as not to ruin the festive mood and they must not blindly accuse anyone. Something that may be hard to do as tensions between Corsairs and Paladins continue to rise. It won't be uncommon for a Paladin to incorrectly assume any Corsair dealing with one of the venomous snakefolk to be part of the ring…

With the assistance of the Corsairs who share a natural affinity towards the dragons due to Nogard's own draconic form, large feasts and challenges are held often as entertainment for visitors. The dragons also participate in these activities, as they also use them as an opportunity to show off and meet other potential mates. Or perhaps it's not a dragon that catches their eye…!?

There is a plethora of activities as one might expect for a time of celebration and matchmaking. Although the focus is on the dragons, the spirit and mood makes them playful enough to try and push their non-dragon guests to find their own "special partner." And for those who are not so romantically inclined, forging friendships and strong bonds are also heavily encouraged.


Unlike other festival type feasts, the kind hosted by the dragons are huge with more of an all-you-can-eat buffet style. Held during the evenings and always accompanied with giant casks of ale, there are large portions of meat, all hunted by the dragons and dragonfolk, though they will welcome any who may try their luck and offer something to the many tables as well. In fact, this year they offer a challenge for anyone to venture out into the island or out in the waters to find the largest animal to catch for the feast. When up against the mighty dragonfolk that might seem unfair, but that's what also makes it all the more exciting.

Just beware taking on a drinking challenge from a dragon—they have greater tolerance than most and will be quick to goad anyone to try and drink them under the table (though they usually end up on top instead). A special dragon's ale has been brewed, one that has been in the making for what they claim to be centuries. Down this drink and one will feel as if they are a dragon themselves, gaining increased strength and endurance. However, that's only useful if one can stay sober, as even half a drink can make the most stalwart dragon a bit tipsy. Who knows how it would affect any non-dragons…

But for those who may want a lighter snack, there are some local cafes and many stalls selling special delicacies and other common festival food. One particular favorite is the dragon croissant, adorable pastries shaped like tiny dragons. Anyone who's eaten a croissant will be granted a partial or full dragon transformation for the day (but the wings do not fly). Another favorite is the rainbow dragon peppers. Depending on the colour of pepper, those who are brave enough to eat the peppers will be given a special type of breath: fire, lightning, or ice.

Scattered throughout the island are numerous castles and ancient temples and buildings that many dragons have called their own. From high up in the mountains and floating land masses, to deep within the lakes and caves, there is question of whether these structures are leftovers from the "old world" or if they were built especially for the dragons. Perhaps a mix of both. Regardless, all of them house untold treasures and relics that the dragon resident has collected over time.

And Dragon's Gale is the perfect time for their "spring cleaning" of sorts.

While a dragon would rather kill anyone who tries to take their hoard, it has become tradition to allow non-dragon visitors to test their might and wit to actually do so. They have to begrudgingly admit they have way too much and some can be hazard for young dragons, so they set aside what they are (un)willing to part with and those who are able to pass through their challenges and traps, or perhaps even face the dragon itself, can keep their rewards.

To make things more interesting and in the spirit of their own endeavors in finding a mate, there is a known "challenge" where dragons will dragonnap unsuspecting individuals, usually those who are seen either with a significant other or close friends, and bring them to their castle. Now their "hostage" must be saved. While some may disagree, the dragons find this "game" a surefire way to help unwilling couples or friends to show their bonds. No harm will come to the hostage, unless something should happen to incite the dragon's ire…

This year the snakefolk have been enlisted convinced to help assist the dragons in their strange game. Whether they participate with full hearts or just kind of wave their hands and let would-be heroes pass will depend on the snakefolk. But they will utilize their skills and some should be careful around the illusionists and venomous ones as they may direct their ire towards the "heroes." The also whisper of something very intriguing called Sarht's Heart.




For those who do make it past the many obstacles and out of the traps, they will be faced with one final challenge: battle the one of the many dragons! Whether caught attempting to steal treasure that they will guard or trying to save a hostage, they are on full alert, and boy, do the dragons love a good fight. While these battles will not be too challenging, they are still looking for raiders and rescuers to put on a good fight and show with them. Weapons and magic are fair game, and they will do the same, but remember: this is just that, a game.

In the end, they are simply trying to strengthen the bonds of others, and maybe even play a little bit of matchmaker. Just remember that this is all for fun, so show off a little to impress that hostage, add a bit of dramatic flair, and have a good time!

The current MANTA Board is available, but we have a couple of additional quests that are specific for the event! Teaming up is of course encouraged, no matter what the affiliation. You can assume they acquired some kind of ship for the quests out at sea, either the starter ship or some other ship heading out there. All quests will be worth 4 points.