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The Enigmatic Lady of Pain: Exciting Unveiling of the Planescape Setting in DnD Q4, 2023!



In the ever-expanding universe of Dungeons & Dragons, there's a resurgence of nostalgia mixed with fresh excitement. Wizards of the Coast announced last summer in 2022 the triumphant return of a fan-favorite setting: Planescape.

Accompanying this news was the announcement of the reappearance of the iconic, inscrutable entity known as the Lady of Pain. This unveiling has sparked a flurry of anticipation amongst the D&D community, eager to explore the maze-like streets of Sigil, the City of Doors, once again.


The Planescape setting is poised for a Q4 2023 release, and while the retail price remains under wraps, the hype surrounding it is palpable. Sigil, the heart of Planescape, is a hub-space connecting a multitude of worlds through a complex network of portals, allowing for endless opportunities for adventure. The city is nestled within the inner circle of a wheel representing Planescape, a cosmology introduced in the Manual of the Planes: Second Edition, released for D&D's First Edition.


Sigil's unique structure is not its only intriguing feature. The city is brimming with ideologically opposed factions, each representing a distinct moral alignment from one of the Outer Planes. This diverse, morally complex population forms the backbone of the city's appeal.


In recent years, Dungeons & Dragons has steered away from the rigidity of assigned moral alignments, favoring the more nuanced character development. However, with Planescape’s reemergence, it's intriguing to ponder how this shift will be incorporated into a setting where alignment is so intrinsically woven into its narrative fabric. Given Wizards of the Coast’s ongoing efforts to promote inclusion, the challenge of navigating this change without sacrificing the immersive nature of fantasy RPGs in the face of social movements is indeed fascinating.


With the reintroduction of other newer and classic settings like Strixhaven and Spelljammer, it makes sense to have Sigil—a place that can seamlessly connect these expanding universes. Alongside these settings, there are the mysteries of obelisks scattered throughout the realms, the harrowing lower planes of Hell, the enchanting Feywild, and other planar settings like the gloomy Shadowfell. All of these are integral to the multiverse of D&D, and the Lady of Pain stands as the gatekeeper to these endless realms of adventure.

The Lady of Pain herself is a character shrouded in enigma. Her silent, aloof demeanor contrasts sharply with her intense power. She rules Sigil with an iron—albeit passive—fist, only intervening when the city's balance is threatened. Her return, along with the city she watches over, opens a multitude of exciting possibilities for both new and veteran players alike.


As we edge closer to Q4 2023, it's clear that the D&D community is on the edge of their seats, waiting to step into the myriad doors of Sigil. Planescape is set to offer a blend of nostalgia and novelty, promising a thrilling adventure in the extraordinary City of Doors, under the watchful eyes of the enigmatic Lady of Pain. In the coming months, we look forward to sharing more news and insights on this highly anticipated release, so stay tuned!


The Lady of Pain

Gargantuan Entity, True Neutral

Armor Class 30 (Natural Armor)

Hit Points 999 (Immortal)

Speed 0 ft., Teleport 120 ft.

STR DEX CON INT WIS CHA

30 (+10) 30 (+10) 30 (+10) 30 (+10) 30 (+10) 30 (+10)

Saving Throws All +20

Skills All +20

Damage Vulnerabilities None

Damage Resistances All

Damage Immunities All

Condition Immunities All

Senses: True Sight 120 ft.

Languages: All, Telepathy 120 ft.

Challenge: 30 (155,000 XP)

Proficiency Bonus: (+10)


Traits

Divine Presence. The Lady of Pain's mere presence can cause psychic damage to any being that attempts to attack her, worship her, or otherwise draw her attention. This damage is automatic and bypasses all forms of resistance or immunity.


Maze Master. As a bonus action, the Lady of Pain can banish any creature she can see into a pocket dimension maze. The creature must succeed on a DC 30 Intelligence check to escape.


Actions

Multiattack. The Lady of Pain can use her Flaying Glance twice.


Flaying Glance. Ranged Spell Attack: +20 to hit, range 120 ft., one target. Hit: The target takes 10d10 psychic damage.


Teleport. The Lady of Pain can teleport to any location within Sigil at will, and can take up to three willing creatures with her.


Background

The Lady of Pain is the enigmatic ruler of Sigil, a city at the center of the multiverse. Her origins and true nature are unknown, but she is a force of inscrutable power and authority. She maintains the balance of Sigil, preventing any deities from entering and swiftly dealing with any who threaten the city's peace. She does not tolerate worship and has no interest in the squabbles of the city's inhabitants unless they threaten the balance she maintains.


Notes:

The Lady of Pain is not meant to be a combatant in any traditional sense. She is a plot device, a symbol of insurmountable power, and the embodiment of the balance of Sigil. Direct interaction with her is often fatal, and her motivations and actions are beyond mortal comprehension. If used in a campaign, it should be with the understanding that she is not an enemy to be defeated, but a force of nature that simply is.

It's important to note that traditionally, the Lady of Pain is not intended to be an entity that player characters can engage with directly in a combat or even a conversation. Her stats are meant to be unknown or unknowable, and she operates on a level far beyond any player character or even god-like entities. However, if you're looking to incorporate her into a campaign in a more direct way, here is a very speculative approximation, keeping in mind that it may not fully capture her true capabilities:



The picture above is unofficial Fan Content permitted under the Fan Content Policy. Not approved/endorsed by Wizards. Portions of the materials used are property of Wizards of the Coast. ©Wizards of the Coast LLC


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