Hodgepocalypse Ontario: A Thousand Fragments - Part 6 - Great Lakes - Part 2

Pelee Island 

 
• Description. Pelee Island, once known for its lush grape fields and vibrant wildlife, has become a sanctuary for the Wire-Dressed Mesquites—humans transformed by the magical residue of fallen stars. These eerie beings now roam the island, their bodies adorned with twisted metal wires, patrolling the desolate vineyards and dense forests. Fiercely territorial, they guard their hoarded supplies of enchanted grapes and other resources with intricate and deadly traps. The island’s deep channels and forest cover have allowed the Mesquites to remain isolated, but their presence is felt by anyone unfortunate enough to stray too close.
• Purpose. Pelee Island is not just a hub for illegal activity, but a forbidden stronghold where the Wire-Dressed Mesquites control everything that happens. Smugglers, treasure seekers, and others who seek to do business here must first navigate the Mesquites' lethal traps and prove their worth to these star-touched guardians. It is also rumored that the island’s forests conceal a group of ancient druids, who use the magical energy of the fallen stars to perform powerful and forgotten rituals, adding an air of mystery and danger to this already treacherous land. No one sets foot on Pelee Island without risking life, limb, or soul.
• Local Myths. The "Forest Guardian," a mythical creature resembling a giant stag with glowing antlers, is said to protect the island from those who would desecrate its sacred groves. It is also believed to guide lost souls to safety.

Rattlesnake Island

 
• Description. Rattlesnake Island is a forbidding place, overgrown with dense vegetation that twists and tangles unnaturally. The shores are jagged, and the waters surrounding it are eerily calm, yet no one dares to swim too far for fear of the serpents that allegedly dwell beneath the surface. Inland, the forests are teeming with wildlife, but the creatures here have been altered snakes that grow over a foot long, birds with eyes that glow in the dark, and plants that seem to move on their own. The air smells faintly of chemicals, a lingering reminder of the experiments once conducted on the island. Crumbling structures from a bygone era are scattered across the landscape, hinting at secret labs and abandoned facilities.
• Purpose.  In the Hodgepocalypse, Rattlesnake Island represents a no-man’s-land of bioengineered horrors and magical mutation. It draws explorers, scientists, and adventurers who are looking for the cause of the island’s mutations, hoping to harness its power or to find answers about the experiments conducted there. The island is also a resource for those seeking rare ingredients—many of the twisted plants and creatures are thought to have unique properties that could aid in crafting potions, spells, or weapons. However, the dangers of Rattlesnake Island are immense, and very few return from its depths, making it a place of both fascination and dread. Some snakes are believed to be the product of bio-engineered evolution, and some suggest that they have developed a hive mind, working together in swarms to hunt their prey. It is said that anyone bitten by these snakes’ experiences vivid hallucinations, suggesting that they may also carry some form of pharmaceutical venom.
• Local Myths. The most persistent myth surrounding Rattlesnake Island is the existence of sea serpents—giant, serpentine creatures that patrol the waters around the island. Local legends tell of fishermen who have glimpsed these creatures, massive enough to capsize small boats, and it’s believed that they were the result of long-forgotten military or magical experiments meant to weaponize wildlife. Some say these serpents possess unnatural intelligence, capable of stalking ships that come too close, and their scales are said to shimmer with arcane energy.
• Another widely believed myth is that of the Serpent King, a massive, mutated snake said to rule over the island’s twisted ecosystem. Locals claim that this monstrous snake is the result of a failed experiment, grown to impossible size, and it commands the other mutated creatures like a king over its domain. Sightings of the Serpent King are rare, but some believe it guards an underground laboratory where the island’s original experiments were carried out, a place that could still hold valuable secrets—or unimaginable horrors.

Sleeping Bear Dunes

 
• Description. An island named for its massive sand dunes resembling a sleeping bear. It has become a popular location for trials by combat among pirate captains and faction leaders, with disputes often settled in brutal duels on the sands.
• Purpose. A sacred dueling ground where disputes are resolved, truces are brokered, and alliances are forged. The island is also known for the mysterious, sentient sands that can shift and move to swallow up the defeated.
• Local Myths. The "Bear Spirit," a massive, ethereal creature that appears during battles to judge the worthiness of combatants. It's said that the sand dunes themselves can shift to protect or trap those who disturb the ancient rites of combat.

South Bass Island

 

• Description. While the island’s exterior appears lively and welcoming, with small towns catering to visitors and beaches lined with scenic views, the true heart of South Bass lies underground. The crystal caves beneath the island are a labyrinth of shimmering grottos, where enormous, sharp crystals jut from the walls and ceilings, glowing faintly with a variety of colors. Deep within these caves lie the fossilized remains of prehistoric creatures, many of which have become infused with arcane energies. The air within the caves is heavy, charged with both ancient magic and mystery. Many who enter speak of the caves altering their perception of time and space, as if the island itself is alive and watching.
• Purpose. South Bass Island serves as both a tourist destination and a hidden center of arcane power in the Great Lakes. On the surface, it draws adventurers and scavengers who hope to profit from the island's resources and those unaware of its deeper secrets. However, the true purpose of South Bass lies beneath—its caves are a source of fairy magic and strange, otherworldly energies. The enchanted crystals are sought after by mages, scholars, and mystics for their ability to amplify spells, store magical energy, and grant visions of possible futures. The caves themselves are rumored to be portals to other realms or times, making them a place of pilgrimage for those seeking knowledge or power.
• Local Myths. A popular myth is the story of the Crystal Guardians, ghostly figures said to be the spirits of prehistoric creatures, resurrected by the magic of the island. These spectral beasts are said to roam the deeper parts of the caves, protecting the crystals and the secrets of the grottos. Some believe that the bones of these creatures, combined with the fairy magic, create the unique properties of the crystals. Locals warn that anyone who seeks to steal the crystals or disturb the bones risks awakening the guardians, who will pursue intruders until they either leave the island or meet a grim fate deep in the caves.

South Manitou Island

 
• Description. South Manitou Island, part of the Manitou Islands in Lake Michigan, boasts rolling sand dunes, dense forests, and pristine beaches, all surrounded by crystal-clear waters. The island, rich in natural beauty, is also steeped in haunting tales that echo the experiences of its tumultuous past. Historically, it served as a way station for travelers, including fishermen and settlers, many of whom were immigrants seeking a new life in America. The landscape is dotted with remnants of old farms and lighthouses, their once-vibrant structures now sunken into decay, serving as solemn reminders of the lives that were once lived there.
• Purpose. South Manitou Island serves as both a refuge and a realm of longing. The island acts as a sanctuary for lost souls, drawn together by the shared experience of unfulfilled journeys marked by grief and nostalgia. Adventurers may come to the island seeking solace or supernatural insight, as the Choleroni, or restless spirits, draw them into their world of sorrow and yearning. The island hosts scavengers and treasure hunters, attracted by the rumored artifacts and remnants of lives once lived, which are said to allow communication with the Choleroni or provide glimpses into the past.
• Local Myths.  The Choleroni Spirits: The most prominent myth concerns the Choleroni, the restless spirits of immigrants who died at sea, often during the perilous journey across the Great Lakes. It is said that these spirits roam the sandy dunes, their forms shifting in the moonlight as they seek warmth and companionship with the living. Travelers tell tales of hearing soft whispers carried on the wind, inviting them to listen to the stories of those who came before

Wolf Island

 
• Description.  Wolf Island is covered in overgrown fields and crumbling infrastructure, with the remains of small, abandoned communities slowly succumbing to nature. At its center lies an old baseball diamond, weathered by time but eerily intact. During the day, the field seems ordinary, though it carries a palpable sense of nostalgia and sorrow. However, on nights of the full moon, the island transforms—spectral figures emerge, dressed in tattered uniforms from an earlier era, to play an endless, ethereal game. The air becomes thick with an otherworldly energy, and the distant sounds of cheering crowds, the crack of a bat, and the thud of a ball echo faintly across the island.
• Purpose. Wolf Island serves as both a mysterious landmark and a cautionary tale in the Great Lakes region. The haunted baseball diamond draws curiosity from adventurers, mystics, and occultists, who seek to understand the nature of the phantom game and perhaps harness the magical energies tied to it. It’s a place where the past intersects with the present, offering a rare glimpse into another time, albeit one tinged with melancholy. The island can also act as a temporal anomaly, where time may behave strangely for those who visit—some believe that watching the spectral game could trap viewers in the endless loop.
• Local Myths.  It is home to the Umpire of Eternity, a shadowy figure who appears during the ghostly game. He is said to have the power to decide the fate of those who wander onto the field during the match. If he deems them worthy, they are allowed to leave the island unharmed; if not, they become trapped, fading into the ranks of the spectral players over time, forever part of the phantom team. Some believe that breaking the cycle of the game could release the trapped spirits, but no one has ever succeeded.

Shipwrecks of the Great Lakes

The Great Lakes are home to thousands of shipwrecks, many with intriguing histories and legends surrounding them. In the world of the Hodgepocalypse, these wrecks have become mysterious, haunted, or magically altered locations, infused with the arcane forces unleashed during the apocalypse. Here are some famous shipwrecks that could serve as key points of interest:

The Daniel J. Morrell (Lake Huron)

 

• Description. A large freighter that broke apart during a storm in 1966, leaving only one survivor. The story of the sole survivor’s harrowing night in freezing waters adds a dramatic human element to the wreck's legend.
• Hodgepocalypse Enhancement. The Daniel J. Morrell has become a beacon of survival in the Hodgepocalypse, a place where adventurers must pass trials of endurance and bravery to receive the ship’s blessings. Perhaps the spirit of the lone survivor still haunts the wreck, guiding others through life-threatening scenarios to test their mettle. The ship’s wreck might have become a sanctuary for lost souls, or it could be a haunted place, constantly shifting between dimensions as it "breaks apart" repeatedly in a loop.

The Lady Elgin (Lake Michigan)

 
• Description. The Lady Elgin was a sidewheel steamboat that sank in 1860 after a collision, leading to the deaths of over 300 people. It remains one of the deadliest shipwrecks in Great Lakes history, and some say the souls of the drowned still haunt the lake.
• Hodgepocalypse Enhancement. The Lady Elgin has become a ghostly beacon in Lake Michigan, a place where lost souls are drawn. The spirits of the drowned are stuck in a time loop, reliving their final moments repeatedly. In the Hodgepocalypse, adventurers could be drawn into this haunted temporal distortion, where time behaves strangely. The wreck might house a portal to another dimension or a powerful necromantic artifact that controls the lingering spirits, coveted by unsavory spellcasters.

Rouse Simmons (Lake Michigan) – "The Christmas Tree Ship"

 
• Description. The Rouse Simmons, a schooner carrying Christmas trees to Chicago, sank in 1912 off the coast of Lake Michigan. The wreck became legendary as sightings of a ghost ship laden with trees were reported in the years after its sinking.
• Hodgepocalypse Enhancement. The ghostly trees aboard the Rouse Simmons have been transmuted to Skull Trees protecting the ship from trespassers. The ship’s captain, Herman Schuenemann, might have made a pact with a winter spirit or forest fey to keep the Christmas Tree Ship eternally afloat, its spectral glow visible from shore only on the coldest nights.

SS America (Lake Superior)

 

• Description: The SS America was a steamer that sank off Isle Royale in 1928. Known for the deep waters around the island and the wreck’s surprising preservation, it’s a popular diving site.
• Hodgepocalypse Enhancement: In the Hodgepocalypse, Isle Royale and the wreck of the SS America is a submerged kingdom, controlled by a powerful water witch or aquatic sorcerer. The wreck could serve as a stronghold for primal water spirits that protect the island’s ley lines. Magical currents might drag adventurers into the depths near the ship, where they must navigate an underwater labyrinth within the wreck to recover powerful arcane relics.

SS Carl D. Bradley (Lake Michigan)

 
• Description. The SS Carl D. Bradley was a freighter that broke in two and sank during a storm in 1958, with most of its crew perishing in the disaster. The ship's sinking contributed to further safety measures for Great Lakes shipping.
• Hodgepocalypse Enhancement. The broken hull of the Carl D. Bradley could has become a Dimensional Gauntlet, a place where the material plane intersects with another dimension. Strange creatures from beyond might be drawn to the split in the ship, while the two halves of the wreck could exist in two different planes of existence, connected by unstable magic. This location could serve as a nexus for powerful artifacts and planar beings looking to exploit the rift.

SS Eastland (Lake Michigan)

 
• Description. The SS Eastland was a passenger ship that capsized in the Chicago River in 1915, killing 844 people. It’s one of the worst maritime disasters in U.S. history, and the site of the sinking is said to be haunted.
• Hodgepocalypse Enhancement. In the Hodgepocalypse, the waters around Chicago could is  a dead zone, where magic and technology malfunction due to the lingering spiritual energy of the Eastland Disaster. The spirits of the dead might still haunt the waters, and the Eastland wreck could reemerge as a ghost ship, periodically rising from the depths and sailing the river, spreading an aura of death and decay wherever it goes. It could be an area filled with tragic, vengeful spirits, drawing necromancers and other dark magic practitioners looking to tap into the haunted energy.

SS Edmund Fitzgerald (Lake Superior)

 

• Description. Perhaps the most famous shipwreck in the Great Lakes, the Edmund Fitzgerald sank in 1975 during a violent storm on Lake Superior. The entire 29-man crew perished, and its exact cause of sinking remains a mystery.
• Hodgepocalypse Enhancement. The "Witch of November", the legendary storm that sank the Fitzgerald, is the embodiment of an ancient water spirit or elemental force. In the Hodgepocalypse, the wreck is be a haunted site where the restless spirits of the crew eternally sail a ghost ship across Lake Superior, cursed by the storm spirit. The area is dominated by raging, supernatural storms that adventurers must brave to find ancient artifacts or powerful weapons aboard the wreck.

SS Kamloops (Lake Superior)

 
• Description. The SS Kamloops was a freighter that sank in 1927 in Lake Superior during a fierce storm. Its wreck was discovered years later, with eerie stories of preserved bodies in cold water and the ghost of a sailor said to haunt the ship.
• Hodgepocalypse Enhancement. The cold waters of Lake Superior gave rise to the frozen undead in the Hodgepocalypse. The Kamloops could be an icebound wreck, with undead sailors preserved in a state of frozen animation. These frozen undead might guard a hidden treasure within the ship’s hold, cursed to forever serve in the cold depths of Superior. The region around the wreck could become a place of eternal winter, ruled by an ancient ice Primal awakened by the Hodgepocalypse.

Le Griffon (Lake Michigan)

 
• Description. One of the Great Lakes' oldest and most mysterious shipwrecks, Le Griffon was built by French explorer René-Robert Cavelier, Sieur de La Salle, and was lost on its maiden voyage in 1679. Its final resting place remains unknown, fueling legends and speculation.
• Hodgepocalypse Enhancement. In the Hodgepocalypse, Le Griffon is a phantom ship, appearing and disappearing across Lake Michigan, transporting otherworldly creatures or powerful magical relics from a bygone era. It also serves as a floating dungeon, with the wreck itself partially existing in both the material world and the Feywild or another arcane dimension. The ship’s crew are rumored to be ageless fey sailors or spirits bound to protect the cargo for eternity.

Other Phenomena

Bessie

Known to locals as both Bessie and the Eel King, this immense serpent-like creature rules the waters of Lake Erie. First sighted in 1817, Bessie’s copper-colored scales shimmer beneath the surface, and its venomous red tongue is said to summon lightning during violent storms. The Eel King, as it’s also called, commands magical energy, crackling with electricity that can fry machinery or paralyze prey. Surrounded by an entourage of smaller, enchanted creatures, the Eel King has transformed Lake Erie into a thriving, arcane ecosystem where mutated plants and animals flourish. Its glowing eyes and destructive powers are feared by sailors, as entire boats have been consumed by this legendary beast.

The Celestial Descent. 

 
In the world of the Hodgepocalypse, the tranquil waters of the Great Lakes are transformed forever by a catastrophic event—a meteor strike, shrouded in a brilliant, blinding light that pierces the overcast sky. Upon impact, the meteoric rock disintegrates into a shower of sparkling fragments, igniting a wave of harrowing energy that radiates outward, causing disturbed waters and rippling chaos. The meteor is of otherworldly origin, believed to be a long-lost remnant of a realm where magic thrived. Its arrival disturbs the fabric of reality, mingling the energies of the universe with the tumultuous remnants of the post-apocalyptic world. 

Mystical Artifacts: Fragments of the meteor contain the essence of the cosmos, attracting scavengers and treasure seekers. These shards can be infused with magic, creating mystical artifacts that grant powers to their wielders. However, their unstable nature means that using these artifacts can lead to unpredictable results, such as temporary enhancements, or even disastrous backfiring.
The Eyes of the Stars: Locals speak of visionaries who claim to have been touched by the meteor's energy. These "Star Seers" possess uncanny insight, able to glimpse potential futures or converse with spectral beings who emerged from the lake post-impact. Some see them as prophets; others deem them mad, warning that their knowledge may come with a heavy price.

The Cold Warden – Ishtakalka

 
In the frozen abyss of Lake Superior lurks Ishtakalka, the Cold Warden—a massive, serpent-like beast whose very presence chills the lake to its core. Its scales shimmer like ice, reflecting the frigid depths around it, allowing Ishtakalka to blend into the freezing waters, unseen by all but the sharpest eyes. Tales of this ancient creature speak of ships lost to sudden freezing storms, the lake itself turning against those who dare venture too far from shore. Ishtakalka’s body radiates an unnatural cold so intense that it can freeze anything it touches, leaving vast ice trails in its wake. The sailors who survive an encounter with the Cold Warden often return frostbitten, haunted by the sight of the creature’s glacial form coiling beneath the water's surface.

HMCS Haida

 
The HMCS Haida, once a proud naval ship, now serves as a floating fortress and headquarters for a band of mercenaries known as the Iron Tide. The Haida is a symbol of strength and resilience, its guns retrofitted with scavenged tech and magical enhancements. The mercenaries enforce their own brutal code of justice, offering protection to those who can pay and swift retaliation to those who cross them. The Haida is a dangerous place for outsiders but holds invaluable resources and knowledge for those bold enough to navigate its treacherous politics.
Plot Hook: A faction leader hires the party to recover a mysterious crate smuggled aboard the Haida. The mercenaries, however, are on high alert after recent betrayals, and sneaking aboard—or fighting through—will require clever planning and split-second decisions.

HMCS Ojibwa

 

The Phantom Submarine Ojibwa, once an Oberon-class vessel of the Royal Canadian Navy, now prowls the depths of the Great Lakes as a spectral guardian of maritime lore. Decommissioned and haunted by the restless spirits of its ghostly crew, the submarine glides through twilight waters, shrouded in mystery and echoes of forgotten naval battles. Its exterior glimmers with an otherworldly sheen, revealing glimpses of long-lost warships alongside the Ojibwa, while inside, cryptic logs and ghostly relics tell tales of treasure and conflict. The spectral corsairs, former sailors of abandoned vessels, protect the ancient knowledge hidden within, engaging bold adventurers in eerie confrontations. As players explore this haunting locale, they may uncover quests to retrieve lost relics, mediate spectral conflicts, and ultimately help the phantom crew find peace, making the Ojibwa a captivating nexus of history and supernatural adventure on the Great Lakes.

The Mist Leviathan – Mylontis

 

Deep within the enigmatic Michigan Triangle, shrouded by impenetrable mists, roams the colossal entity known as Mylontis, the Mist Leviathan. With shimmering silver-gray skin, its massive form is often concealed by the swirling fogs that cloak the lake. Sailors who venture too close to the mists speak of eerie, otherworldly phenomena: ships disappearing, only to reappear decades later—if they return at all. Mylontis is said to possess control over reality itself, warping the physical world and shifting dimensions within its domain. The Leviathan’s ability to phase between dimensions and manipulate the very fabric of space has left the Michigan Triangle a place of profound mystery and fear, where time and reality seem to unravel in its wake. Those unlucky enough to encounter Mylontis often vanish without a trace, forever lost in the veil of mists.

Nyxothar, The Hallowed Gatekeeper 

 

First sighted in 1817, Nyxothar, the colossal wyrm known as the Hallowed Gatekeeper, haunts the deepest waters of Lake Ontario, guarding the Hallowed Rift—a portal to a twisted mirror dimension of Earth. Stretching over 40 feet long with black, molten-like scales and burning crimson eyes, Nyxothar’s presence stirs violent storms across the lake. Sailors speak of its jagged horns and venomous tongue, glimpsed moments before being dragged into the depths. Flickering between the hallowed world and this world, the semi-transparent serpent is both an omen and a curse, its appearance foretelling disaster as it prevents mortals and otherworldly beings from crossing the Rift.

S.S. Ghost Ship Keewatin

 

Once a majestic Edwardian steamship liner, now drifts between the realms of the living and the spectral on the shores of Kingston, Ontario, transformed by the chaotic energies of the Hodgepocalypse. This haunted vessel serves as a floating museum and mystical portal, where adventurers can explore the haunted decks echoing with the whispers of long-gone passengers and encounter benevolent phantoms who share the ship's storied history. The galley hosts enchanted dishes guarded by the spirits of forgotten chefs, while the Cargo Hold of Forgotten Dreams is filled with lost treasures and artifacts connecting to alternate realities. Adventurers are drawn to the Keewatin to assist the phantoms in resolving their unfinished business, recover powerful artifacts from wraith-guarded depths, and navigate the duality of nostalgia and danger, all while uncovering the magic hidden within this ghostly maritime relic.

Umbraequa, The Drowned Guardian

 
Lurking beneath the haunted waters of Lake Huron's Thunder Bay, Umbraequa is a fearsome, ancient behemoth that commands the souls of the drowned and the shipwrecks of the "Graveyard of the Great Lakes." Resembling a grotesque fusion of an undead, barnacle-encrusted whale and a massive octopus, its body is adorned with the skeletal remains of ships and sailors it has claimed over the centuries. Umbraequa watches over the wreckage, summoning spectral sailors to do its bidding and wielding colossal tentacles capable of dragging even the largest ships into the dark abyss. It feeds on the souls of the drowned, growing stronger during fierce storms and in times of unrest, and sailors who wish to pass safely through these cursed waters must offer a pact to the Drowned Guardian, lest they join its spectral army.

Underwater Stonehenge of Lake Michigan

 

In the aftermath of the Hodgepocalypse, the Great Lakes became a nexus of strange magic and cryptic history, their waters now teeming with eldritch creatures and shrouded in supernatural fogs. At the heart of these mysteries lies the Underwater Stonehenge of Lake Michigan, a megalithic structure discovered by pre-cataclysmic archaeologists near Grand Traverse Bay. The ancient stones, etched with otherworldly glyphs, have been linked to both Native American legends of the Water Panther and whispers of a prehuman race that thrived before recorded history. With the Hodgepocalypse's reality-bending devastation, the site has become a focal point for temporal rifts, summoning monsters from ancient epochs and granting glimpses into a haunting, alternate future. The structure itself is rumored to be a portal, but whether it opens to the stars, the abyss, or some forgotten corner of the multiverse, no one knows—those who investigate too closely seldom return unchanged. Explorers speak of an echoing hum emanating from the stones, luring creatures from the deep and leaving divers plagued by surreal nightmares for weeks after their descent.

Hodgepocalypse Ontario: A Thousand Fragments - Part 5 - The Great Lakes - Part 1

From the Waves of the Hodgepcalypse, the Great Lakes region had transformed into a volatile flashpoint where the struggles of a world on the brink of collapse coalesced. What began as environmental crises and political tensions over dwindling freshwater resources escalated into a shadowy cold war between global superpowers, corporations, and rogue factions. Amid this turmoil, strange occurrences of magic and supernatural forces slowly surfaced, intertwined with the technological arms race for dominance. As powerful psionics, mutant factions, and secretive mage covens emerged, the balance between technology and magic reached a critical tipping point. 

The Great Lakes became a battleground, its waters hosting covert naval battles, piracy, and rogue experiments that destabilized the region further. When the Great Tear—a catastrophic event that unleashed raw magical energy—ripped open the boundary between the material and magical realms, it triggered the apocalyptic event known as the Hodgepocalypse. In the aftermath, the once-vital Great Lakes were forever altered, leaving a chaotic, shattered world where magic and technology clashed for supremacy, and new powers rose from the ashes to shape the future of humanity.

The Time Before

• The Great Lakes Federation: Canada and the U.S. form a joint defense pact over the Great Lakes region, creating the Great Lakes Federation (GLF) to manage resources, coordinate environmental recovery, and prepare for possible conflicts over freshwater.
• Rising Tensions with China and Russia: Both China and Russia covertly fund proxy factions in the region, seeking to influence local politics and exploit natural resources. Skirmishes occur, involving sabotage of water-treatment facilities and cyber-attacks on infrastructure.
• Technological Warfare: Quantum computing and AI-controlled drones become central to defense strategies. The militarization of the lakes intensifies, with naval bases and unmanned submarines patrolling the waters.
• Pollution Crisis: Microplastics and chemical pollutants accumulate despite efforts to clean the lakes. Algal blooms plague the waters, creating "dead zones" devoid of aquatic life. Desperate solutions, including nanotech bio-filters, are deployed but only slow the degradation.
• Mythological Awakening: Reports of strange, mythical occurrences in the Great Lakes—such as sightings of ancient lake monsters and supernatural weather phenomena—begin circulating. At first dismissed as superstition, these events grow increasingly frequent, hinting at magical forces stirring in the region.
• The "Silent War": Though not officially at war, various world powers continue covert operations in the Great Lakes region. Underwater espionage has become commonplace, with robotic submarines and drones deployed for surveillance. The GLF forms a naval defense fleet, while rogue factions pirate the waterways.
• The Occult Underground: Paranormal activity surges around sites like Isle Royale, Sleeping Bear Dunes, and Mackinac Island. Ghost ships and mythical creatures are no longer just legends; they're actively encountered by sailors and adventurers. Secretive groups of mages, seers, and occultists gather in these places, preparing for a coming "great shift."

The Hodgepocalypse begins: 

The convergence of global conflicts, environmental collapse, and magical forces culminates in the Hodgepocalypse—an apocalyptic event triggered by the collapse of the rift in the Great Lakes. Magical energy floods the world, merging with technology in unpredictable ways. The Great Lakes become a battleground between surviving human factions, rogue AI, eldritch magic, and ancient forces. Massive storms, magical surges, and reality-warping events reshape the land, while ancient spirits and newly created beings rise to claim the waters

The Great Lakes in Ruins

• Islands of Power: Following the magical apocalypse, the islands of the Great Lakes become key strategic points, each with its own unique magical properties or resources.  
• Mythical Beasts Return: As magic saturates the Great Lakes, mythical creatures once believed extinct or imaginary, like lake monsters, return in full force, claiming dominion over various parts of the lakes and its islands.
• Endless Conflict: The Great Lakes become an eternal warzone, a fractured land of pirates, mages, and technocrats, where survival depends on mastering both technology and magic. The cold war never truly ends—it simply evolves into a new, chaotic reality.

The Five Great Lakes

All five Great Lakes have their own unique anomalies:

Lake Superior

Real-Life Fact: Cold Waters Preserve Shipwrecks – The waters of Lake Superior are incredibly cold, which slows decay and preserves many of the shipwrecks on the lakebed.

Hodgepocalypse Twist: Frozen in Time – After the Hodgepocalypse, Lake Superior’s icy waters have become unnaturally cold, trapping not just wrecks but also the souls of the dead in a state of preservation. Those who die in the lake remain suspended in time, neither fully dead nor alive, creating undead mariners who wander the shores or serve as guardians of ancient wrecks. The lake is rumored to be a gateway to a plane of eternal winter, where time flows differently, and magic related to ice and time can be harnessed by those brave enough to delve into its depths.

Lake Michigan

Real-Life Fact: Treacherous Waters and "The Chicago Bermuda Triangle" – The unpredictable weather and treacherous waves have caused countless shipwrecks and disappearances, with some linking it to the so-called Michigan Triangle.

Hodgepocalypse Twist: The Vanishing Waters – The Michigan Triangle has become a supernatural vortex after the Hodgepocalypse, causing entire ships, and even islands, to mysteriously disappear. The Triangle now distorts space and time, and those who sail into its waters may find themselves transported to alternate realities or trapped in a magical maze of shifting islands. Myths tell of ships that left Lake Michigan centuries ago, only to return in the present day, crewed by confused sailors who haven’t aged a day. Adventurers who dare explore these waters may uncover powerful dimensional magic or risk being lost in time.

Lake Huron

Real-Life Fact: The Graveyard of the Great Lakes – Lake Huron has claimed more shipwrecks than any other lake, particularly in its infamous Thunder Bay, where treacherous waters have caused many ships to meet their end.

Hodgepocalypse Twist: The Restless Graveyard – After the Hodgepocalypse, Thunder Bay has become a ghostly graveyard, where the shipwrecks stir to life at night. Ghost ships rise from the depths, crewed by phantom sailors reliving their final moments in endless loops. Thunderstorms over the bay are now charged with magical energy, causing the dead to rise from the lake and haunt the living. Travelers near the shore hear the eerie sounds of long-lost ships’ horns and sailors calling out through the mist. Those daring enough to explore these ghost wrecks may find cursed treasures or relics imbued with the power of the dead.

Lake Erie

Real-Life Fact: Shallow and Warm Waters – Lake Erie is the shallowest and warmest of the Great Lakes, prone to frequent storms and dangerous ice in winter.

Hodgepocalypse Twist: The Living Lake – Lake Erie’s warm, shallow waters have become infested with life—but not the kind people are used to. After the Hodgepocalypse, the lake developed an arcane ecosystem. The lake is now teeming with magical creatures, from enormous serpents to ethereal jellyfish that feed on the ley line energies crisscrossing the lake. At night, the lake glows faintly with bioluminescent magic, and it’s said the water itself has become sentient, shifting currents to protect or drown those it chooses. Mythical creatures, such as lake spirits or elemental beings, control its depths, and magical flora grows along its shores, creating potent alchemical ingredients.

Lake Ontario

Real-Life Fact: Lake Ontario, the smallest by surface area, is one of the deepest Great Lakes. Throughout history, it has seen its share of military battles, smuggling operations, and hidden treasures. Its waters have long held a reputation for concealing secrets beneath their surface.

Hodgepocalypse Twist: The Hallowed Gate – Following the Hodgepocalypse, Lake Ontario’s deep waters became the site of a mystical rift—a gateway to the Hallowed World, a strange, inside-out mirror dimension believed to be the origin of life on Earth. The rift pulses with eerie, otherworldly energy, allowing strange creatures and arcane magic to leak into the lake. The Hallowed World is a land of prehistoric beasts, reversed geography, and distorted natural laws, and the rift draws travelers and adventurers into its bizarre depths.

Islands of Note

Amherst Island

• Description. Amherst Island is a rugged, windswept isle, its shores lined with jagged rocks and dark forests that seem to whisper with unseen forces. The land is steeped in a sense of dread, and strange shadows flit among the trees. The heart of the island is dominated by an ancient graveyard, where an ever-burning candle stands atop the graves of those claimed by the curse. This eerie, supernatural flame never dims, flickering even in the heaviest rain. The sky above the island is perpetually overcast, and the air feels thick, as though the weight of the curse presses down on everything.

• Purpose. Amherst Island serves as a cursed location that adventurers and treasure seekers approach at their peril. It is said to hold ancient relics and untold wealth, but the price for such riches is steep encounters with the malevolent, ghostly presence that haunts the island. The island is also a dangerous waypoint for those traveling across the Great Lakes, as its cursed waters often pull ships off course, leading them into the island’s grip. The island’s cursed nature makes it a place of dark rituals and forbidden magic, attracting cultists and necromancers who seek to harness its power.

• Local Myths. The most feared legend of Amherst Island is the tale of The Demon of the Loyalists, a malevolent entity brought back from the Loyalists’ campaigns during the Revolutionary War. According to the myth, the Loyalists unknowingly unleashed the demon when they tried to bring back powerful artifacts to restore their fallen fortunes. The demon now resides on the island, its presence felt in the unnatural happenings that plague the land.

The Apostle Islands 

 

• Description. This cluster of islands has become notorious for its dangerous, shifting sands and unpredictable currents. The numerous shipwrecks around the islands have made them infamous as the "Graveyard of the Great Lakes."

• Purpose. An area avoided by most due to the high number of ghost ships and undead sailors that patrol the waters. However, daring adventurers sometimes attempt to recover lost cargo or search for ancient treasures rumored to be buried deep within the caves.

• Local Myths. The "Witch of the Apostles," a powerful sea witch or hag, is said to control the fog and currents, ensnaring ships to add to her ghostly fleet. She commands a host of undead minions and bargains with mortal visitors for a steep price.

Belle Isle 

 

• Description. Belle Isle, once a peaceful park in the Detroit River, is now a place of calm amidst the chaos. It is considered a sacred site by sea elf communities and is known for its serene atmosphere and beautiful landscapes.  It is the one point where the Detritians, and the Windsorites can meet for parley.

• Purpose. A sanctuary and diplomatic ground, where even pirates tread carefully. It is a neutral zone protected by powerful enchantments, where various factions come to negotiate peace or seek counsel from the sea elves.

• Local Myths. The "Guardian Spirit of the River," believed to be an ancient elemental or fey creature, watches over the island, maintaining its tranquility and repelling those with ill intent.

Bois Blanc Island 

 

• Description. Known for its dense fogs, rocky shores, and dangerous reefs, Bois Blanc Island serves as a temporary camp or hideout for pirates, raiders, and scavengers.

• Purpose. A staging ground for raids and an ideal location for secret meetings and clandestine activities. It is often used by pirate crews needing a temporary base while operating in the area.

• Local Myths. Stories speak of the "Fogwalker," a mysterious figure who moves through the mists, guiding lost souls back to their homes—or to their doom.

Devils Island

 

• Description. Devils Island is one of the striking Apostle Islands situated in Lake Superior, renowned for its rocky cliffs, lush forests, and rugged shorelines. Often enveloped in dense fog, the island presents an almost eerie landscape, where visibility can be reduced to mere feet, enhancing the sense of mystery and foreboding. Scattered throughout the island are towering stone monoliths, remnants of a bygone era, believed to be a part of a temple dedicated to an ancient giant said to have risen from the depths of the lake. The land boasts a unique vibrancy, with flora and fauna that thrive amidst the legends that hang heavy in the air. The one prominent structure left on the island is the historic lighthouse, a resilient sentinel that once guided sailors through treacherous waters, now serving as a symbol of the island's haunted legacy and rich history.

• Purpose. Devils Island serves as a nexus of ancient power, folklore, and the supernatural, beckoning adventurers and seekers of wisdom. The island functions as a site for exploration, where brave souls venture to uncover lost relics, gain insight into the mysterious giant, and confront the enigmatic forces that linger. It attracts those drawn to magic and ancient wisdom, as well as thrill-seekers seeking to connect with the uncanny. However, the island also stands as a cautionary tale, warning of the consequences of meddling with forces beyond human understanding.

• Plot Hook. The Giant of the Lake: Central to the lore of Devils Island is the tale of a giant who rose from the depths of Lake Superior, said to be a guardian of the waters and the ancient secrets buried within. The giant is described as a being of immense strength and wisdom, embodying the fury and beauty of nature. Those who visit the island may leave offerings at the monoliths, hoping to gain the giant's favor or insight into their quests

The Door Peninsula and Rock Island

 

• Description. The Door Peninsula, once known for its natural beauty, is now a rugged, overgrown place rich in rare herbs and medicinal plants. It is fiercely defended by a Rainmaker circle that has sworn to protect its resources from marauders.

• Purpose. A place sought by healers and alchemists for its unique flora. It is rumored to be a sacred place where the veil between the living and the dead is thin, and where ancient rituals are still performed.

• Local Myths. The "Green Warden," a Rainmaker protector who can control the plants and creatures of the island, is said to appear in times of need to defend the land against invaders.

Fishing islands.

 

• Description. The Fishing Islands are a bleak and mist-shrouded archipelago, their rocky shores battered by cold winds and crashing waves. The waters around them are treacherous, littered with the wrecks of ships lost to the unpredictable storms that plague the region. Fishermen avoid the area, whispering tales of eerie figures that wander the shores at night. Ruins of old fishing shacks and cabins dot the landscape, abandoned long ago, and a perpetual chill seems to cling to the air. The land is sparsely vegetated, with hardy grasses and gnarled trees clinging to the rocky soil, giving the islands an almost otherworldly appearance.

• Purpose. In the Hodgepocalypse, the Fishing Islands serve as a mysterious and dangerous region, perfect for those seeking occult knowledge, supernatural encounters, or the thrill of battling ancient creatures. The islands offer a wealth of secrets buried beneath their windswept surfaces—lost shipwrecks, forgotten treasures, and hints of long-abandoned rituals that may have given birth to the Wildman or summoned the lake’s monstrous denizens. However, the risks are immense, as the islands are plagued by both natural hazards and paranormal threats. They draw those looking to prove their mettle, treasure hunters chasing forgotten riches, or mages searching for arcane secrets hidden beneath the waves.

• Local Myths. The most notorious legend associated with the Fishing Islands is that of the Wildman of 1900. According to local lore, the Wildman was once a sailor who lost his mind after his crew was devoured by a mysterious sea creature. He survived, only to become something more than human. The Wildman is said to haunt the shores of the islands, his appearance marked by glowing eyes and a primal, beast-like demeanor. Those who seek him often return disoriented and changed, their minds broken by the encounter—or they vanish altogether, becoming part of the islands’ ghostly roster of lost souls.

Grand Island 

 

• Description. Grand Island, also known as the maw, is named for its jagged cliffs that rise sharply from the water, resembling the fangs of a massive beast. The island is believed to be the home of a ghost who commands both the waves and the dead.

• Purpose. A place shunned by most sailors, but occasionally visited by those seeking forbidden knowledge or dark power. The ghost  is known to trade favors, but his deals are often more costly than they first appear.

• Local Myths. A fur trapper named Jean LaSalle lived a solitary life on Grand Island, hunting beavers and trading pelts with passing voyageurs. As the fur trade declined, LaSalle refused to leave the island, convinced there was still a fortune to be found. He was last seen heading into the dense woods one winter, never to return. His abandoned cabin was found years later, with his traps reset and pelts hanging from trees, as if LaSalle had continued his work in death.  This is a ghost of the island and while not always hostile, you should always be wary.

High Island

 

• Description. High Island, located in the northern reaches of Lake Michigan, is characterized by its steep cliffs, dense forests, and hidden clearings. The island's terrain contrasts with the surrounding bodies of water, creating an otherworldly atmosphere that feels alive in eerie ways. Once known for its picturesque landscapes, High Island has transformed into a land shadowed by a dark mystery. Formerly home to artisanal fishermen and farmers, remnants of abandoned homesteads and dilapidated buildings now stand as haunting silhouettes. The most prominent feature is the imposing structure often referred to as the "Diamond House," a crumbling monument of grand aspirations that now acts as the headquarters of a secretive cult.

• Purpose. High Island serves as a place of deep intrigue and danger. It was once envisioned as a utopia—an idyllic community where individuals could escape the chaos of the outside world and reconnect with nature and each other. However, the utopian dream devolved into madness, giving rise to the Diamond House cult and its eccentric worshippers. The island has become a cautionary tale about the dangers of unchecked ambition and the corruption of idealism. Adventurers flock to the island, drawn by rumors of a powerful relic hidden within the remnants of the Diamond House, believed to grant immense power but at a terrible cost.

• Local Myths. The Diamond Relic: According to legend, the cult of the Diamond House unearthed an ancient relic during their quest for enlightenment, said to be an artifact of unimaginable power and wisdom. This relic is rumored to be buried within the island’s depths, guarded by supernatural forces that drive the cult's members to madness. Anyone attempting to claim the relic must face the trials set by its guardians, including delusions, nightmarish visions, and, ultimately, their own worst fears.

Isle Royale.

 

• Description. Formerly a national park, Isle Royale has been transformed into a stronghold for pirate factions. The dense forests and rocky shores make it ideal for hiding ships and conducting clandestine raids across the Great Lakes.

• Purpose. A major base for pirates, with a loose council of captains who enforce a harsh but fair code of law. It has a bustling black market where anything can be bought or sold, from ancient artifacts to the latest in scavenged technology.

• Local Myths. The island is said to be haunted by the spirits of miners who perished in the copper mines in centuries past. Ghostly apparitions sometimes appear, warning of impending doom or seeking revenge against the living.

Johnson’s Island

 

• Description. Johnson’s Island is a landscape where the past and present blend in unsettling ways. The island is littered with the decaying remnants of an amusement park, built atop the unmarked graves of Civil War prisoners. Rusted rollercoaster tracks wind through overgrown trees, while broken-down rides stand silent, their once-joyful appearance now a stark contrast to the island’s haunting atmosphere. In the island’s center lies the crumbling remains of the old prison camp, its foundations barely visible beneath the vines and rubble. The air is thick with an unnatural chill, and at night, eerie fog rolls in from the lake, bringing with it the sounds of spectral voices and the creak of long-abandoned rides.

• Purpose. Johnson’s Island serves as a grim reminder of the Hodgepocalypse’s ability to twist history into something more sinister. Once a place of both war and attempted entertainment, the island now acts as a cursed ground, haunted by the souls of those who perished in the prison camp and the amusement park that followed. It’s a place for treasure hunters, adventurers, and occultists, drawn by the legend of a hidden fortune guarded by the ghost of John Yates Beall. The island’s ruins offer countless opportunities for exploration, but they also carry significant dangers, both physical and supernatural. The decaying structures, combined with the presence of restless spirits, make this island a treacherous location where the lines between life and death blur.

• Local Myths. The most famous legend associated with Johnson’s Island is the tale of John Yates Beall, the Lake Erie pirate said to haunt the island. According to the myth, Beall was executed during the Civil War, but his spirit returned to the place where so many others perished unjustly. Locals believe that Beall, now a spectral guardian, watches over a hidden treasure buried beneath the old rollercoaster tracks. The treasure is said to include gold, weapons, and magical artifacts Beall had stolen during his time as a pirate, items that could grant great power to anyone who uncovers them. However, no one who has attempted to find the treasure has ever returned, fueling the belief that Beall’s ghost is actively protecting it.

Les Cheneaux Archipelago

 

• Description. The Les Cheneaux Archipelago is a stunning chain of islands nestled among the shimmering waters of Lake Huron, characterized by lush greenery, craggy shorelines, and hidden coves. The islands are small and varied in size, with some merely rocky outcrops while others boast dense woodlands and sandy beaches. Wild magic pulses through the channels that separate these islands, creating an ethereal atmosphere that often confuses the senses and distorts reality. As travelers navigate these waters, they may encounter mist-shrouded paths that lead to ancient ships drifting in time's current or stumble upon the ruins of fortresses long since reclaimed by nature.

• Purpose. Les Cheneaux serves as a mystical nexus where the boundaries of history and magic blur. It is a place for adventurers seeking forgotten knowledge or treasures, where time itself is non-linear, and the islands shift in and out of existence. Raiders and scavengers might flock to these waters, hoping to plunder the remnants of bygone eras. It also serves as a haven for magic users seeking to harness the wild energies found within the islands, as well as a refuge for those escaping the turmoil of the outside world. The archipelago is a place of conflict, exploration, and discovery, drawing in those with a thirst for adventure and the unknown.

• Local Myths. The Fortress of Whispers: Ruins from an ancient fortress, shrouded in mystery, are believed to house the voices of its long-dead defenders. Those who venture too close may hear echoes of past battles, warnings, or even receive cryptic guidance that leads them on unexpected journeys. It is said that those who heed the fortress's whispers may uncover treasures, but those who ignore its warnings could face dire consequences

Mackinac Island

 

• Description. Mackinac Island, once known for its historical sites and tourism, is now a neutral trading hub amidst the chaos of the Great Lakes. The island is famous for its skilled shipbuilders who can repair or retrofit any vessel.

• Purpose. Serves as a neutral ground where various factions, including pirates, scavengers, and local communities, come to trade, negotiate, and resupply. It's known for its horse-drawn vehicles and Victorian-era technology, blended with futuristic enhancements.

• Local Myths. The Ghost Fleet of Mackinac: Mackinaw’s history as a critical naval hub during the War of 1812 gives rise to stories of lost ships and sailors. Many ships sank in battles or in treacherous waters around the straits.  The ghost fleet might has returned as spectral pirates, preying on anyone who dares sail the lakes. The phantom ships, cShiprewed by undead sailors, could appear on foggy nights, driven by the dark magic that now surges through the region. These undead pirates might demand tribute from coastal settlements, becoming a recurring threat for survivors and adventurers in the area.

Main Duck Island

 

• Description. Main Duck Island is a rocky, treacherous isle surrounded by shipwrecks and wreckage from centuries past. The island’s shoreline is dotted with the hulking remains of old vessels, their masts poking through the mist like tombstones. Dense forests blanket the inland, concealing hidden pirate hideouts, old smuggling routes, and secret coves that make it a perfect base for lawless activity. At night, eerie lights flicker across the island, as if guiding vessels into Randall’s treacherous waters. The island is isolated, cut off from the mainland, accessible only to those who know the hidden routes through the dangerous reefs.

• Purpose. Main Duck Island serves as a pirate refuge, a gathering point for raiders, scavengers, and other lawless figures. The island is also a treasure trove of pre-apocalyptic technology and artifacts, hidden within shipwrecks and pirate stashes, making it a lure for adventurers and scavengers alike.

• Local Myths.  Legends tell of Harry Randall, a pirate captain with immortality granted by a dark pact, who commands an undead crew formed from the remains of shipwrecked sailors. Randall’s crew is said to be bound to him through arcane rituals, their bodies cobbled together from sunken ships and drowned men. Some whisper that Randall’s power is tied to a cursed treasure buried deep within the island, guarded by his crew and a sea spirit that ensures no one escapes with the loot. Another popular tale is of The Wraith Fleet, a ghostly armada of past shipwrecks that sails the waters around the island at night, trapping any vessel within a magical fog that leads to their doom.

Manitoulin Isle (Enchanted Haven)

 

• Description. Manitoulin Island, known as the "Enchanted Haven," sits atop a powerful leyline nexus that radiates supernatural energy. This convergence has turned the island into a vibrant yet eerie hub of magical activity, attracting practitioners of various arcane arts. One of its most infamous features is the Mounted Animal Nature Trail, a macabre exhibit of lifelike taxidermy creatures created by a necromancer named Gary. These creatures, preserved for tourists, are often animated through necromantic magic, wandering the trail with an unnatural presence that both fascinates and unsettles visitors.

• Purpose. The island serves as a sanctuary for those who seek to tap into its potent leyline energies, drawing in mages, druids, and psionics from around the world. For some, it is a place to study and experiment with raw magical power, while for others, it has become a center for occult gatherings and arcane research. The Mounted Animal Nature Trail initially aimed to be a unique tourist attraction, showcasing taxidermy in a mystical setting. However, it has evolved into a grim curiosity, with its undead creatures becoming a symbol of the island’s uncontrollable magical phenomena.

• Local Myths. The Awakening of the Trail: Legends say that when the Hodgepocalypse looms near, the creatures along the Mounted Animal Nature Trail will break free from Gary’s control, turning from a tourist oddity into an unstoppable army of undead. Locals whisper that these animated animals will roam the island, hunting down any who attempt to exploit the leyline nexus for selfish purposes.