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Dungeon Delving for Dummies: “Mordenkainen’s Tome of Foes”

“Mordenkainen’s Tome of Foes” is Wizards of the Coast most essential source book

Stephanie Moschella |‌ ‌Digital Media Manager

“Mordenkainen’s Tome of Foes” stars our friendly level 30 mad mage — he takes readers through the multiverse that includes realms like Greyhawk, Eberron and more. If dungeon masters have players that are looking to be thrown into some good ol’ political intrigue, there is some rich history here that can help with that. With six chapters that contain a plethora of new lore and dozens of options regarding general gameplay, it tops it off with a large bestiary of new foes to use against players. 

The first section of the book focuses on The Blood War, which was fought between demons and devils, each attempting to grab for power. They fought a lot in the lower planes, so if DMs were going to use this in a campaign, there shouldn’t be too much concern regarding players venturing there. Unless players have a pretty sadistic DM….

A large extension to the Tiefling race was added — many subraces, additional abilities and more personality traits can be used by players. Along with multiple race variations to elves, dwarves, halflings, and gnomes, there is also an entirely new race addition — the Gith. Players would be able to play a githyanki or a githzerai depending if they wish to hone their strength or intelligence skills. 

Although the race additions and bestiary are helpful, a large portion of the sourcebook is optional information to add into campaigns. It would be useful for newer DM’s and those that want a quick fix to creating lore, but for already ongoing campaigns, it can truthfully be disregarded.

For more modern DM’s, I would not suggest using any of the lore in this book. It dives deeper into why certain races are classified as “evil” compared to others, specifically the drow and duergar. This sourcebook provides a pretty lame excuse for being blatantly racist by deeming it as “world expansion.” From Mordenkainen himself, “dwarves are neurotic.” 

Overall Review: Between the name calling and race structured personality traits, this sourcebook typically sits on my bookshelf collecting dust. 5/10 would recommend to players and DM’s alike.

Contact the author at smoschella20@mail.wou.edu

Opinion: Self-love doesn’t have to be linear

Learn to like yourself first, and the rest will come later

Natalie‌ ‌Dean‌ ‌|‌ ‌Entertainment‌ ‌Editor‌ ‌

Valentine’s Day used to be simple and relatively stress free. Those were the days, when all we had to do as students was scribble a ‘xoxo’ on some cheap-o cards our parents bought last minute. The biggest stress was making sure everyone’s names were spelled right on the card. As we grow up over the years, we realize that there’s an external pressure to find someone “special” to spend Valentine’s Day with. And if you’re single during the holidays, then the next mission is to take that singleness and to “just love yourself” through it. In a world that puts a lot of pressure on loving yourself fully, right off the bat, what is someone to do if they don’t even like themselves? 

Thankfully, you don’t have to love yourself. At least, not right away. 

Self-love is important, but it has recently become the suggested quick-fix solution to people’s problems. If loving yourself was that easy, everyone would be doing it — and nobody would be struggling with the parts of themselves that they hide away. But life is not about loving yourself right away, it is about honoring the process of getting to know yourself and taking realistic baby steps. The saying is true after all: no matter where you go, there you are. 

It is not a race, and it takes active practice. Even though it can be difficult to put ourselves first, there are many approaches to personal growth. Some ways that may help is by practicing patience with yourself, and to show acceptance and gratitude to the body that has gotten you through a pandemic. If you’re sick and tired of being sick and tired, hold yourself accountable in the ways you want to change, and work toward those goals. 

Instead of being our own worst enemies, what if we tried being as patient with ourselves as we are with others, like we do with our loved ones? If they make a mistake, our first instinct isn’t to tear them down, it is to lovingly encourage them to try again. It is important to recognize when we speak to or treat ourselves poorly, and then try to be more understanding and patient. 

This last year has put too many people through the wringer, and it can feel like we’re going through the motions until we fully settle into our new normal. While the dust settles, it is important to know that this type of acceptance and love can’t happen overnight, and it is crucial to ask for support when needed. Love and kindness toward yourself is something that can be worked on anytime — not just because it is a new year, or because it is Valentine’s Day, but because you deserve to feel at ease with yourself all the time. 

Contact the author at ndean17@wou.edu

Celebrate the season of love with these activities

Ways to spend time this Valentine’s Day if alone or single

Natalie‌ ‌Dean‌ ‌|‌ ‌Entertainment‌ ‌Editor‌ ‌ ‌

Valentine’s Day is right around the corner, but not everyone has plans this year, or a significant other to spend it with. However, the holiday doesn’t have to be full of sadness or longing for a partner; instead, it can be an opportunity to make the most out of singledom and celebrate love in other ways. Here are some of the best ways to spend time alone when single or without plans:

  • Write letters to family or friends: If spending this holiday solo, love letters or letters of gratitude for friends and family can go a long way. This past year has been hard on everyone, and a small moment of appreciation can mean more to someone than initially thought. It doesn’t have to be pages long, but can highlight favorite memories, inside jokes or a cute message. Go the extra mile and mail them out if needed. 
  • Pampering: There are a ton of takeout and delivery services available to enjoy a nice meal, beverage or sweet treat from home. Or the day can be spent cooking favorite meals or treats at home, with a movie or music. Take a nap, get out of the house, enjoy time in nature ⏤ do whatever brings the most relaxation through the day.
  • Spend time with pets: Valentine’s Day can be spent with pets, either out on a walk, playing, lounging around or by giving them treat after treat. Have a fun photoshoot with pets to commemorate the day together, give them a little Valentine’s with a toy or treat in it and bestow some extra attention (flowers are optional, chocolate not recommended).
  • Random act of kindness: There are plenty of people in our community that need a helping hand, from folks facing homelessness to families in our own neighborhoods. Donating time and resources can make a big difference to those who may be struggling, even if it’s something small. Spread the love by going through old clothes, dishes, home items or unwanted food products and donating them to food pantries and homeless shelters. 
  • Valentine’s Day cards: If there are any kiddos or youngsters in the family, they may really appreciate some chocolates, a toy or Valentine’s Day cards — since they aren’t in classrooms and can’t quite celebrate in the traditional way. It can be an exciting time for children to soak in the holiday, so try out a themed activity with them. Have them make their own cards to give to family members or friends, decorate the house, bake goodies or have a spa day. 

          Contact the author at ndean17@wou.edu

          Find classic hits in this Valentine’s Day playlist

          Add these classic love songs and heartbreaker anthems to a Valentine’s Playlist

          Natalie‌ ‌Dean‌ ‌|‌ ‌Entertainment‌ ‌Editor‌ ‌ ‌

          Valentine’s Day is quickly approaching, and this season of love can best be enjoyed ⏤ or not ⏤ with music. Jam out with these 40 songs, half being love songs and the other half being heartbreak anthems. These songs can create an upbeat tone during date night or enjoy quality alone time if flying solo this year. Or, hit shuffle, grab some ice cream and see how the night goes. 

          The playlist has artists from Etta James, Prince, Cyndi Lauper, Oasis, and all the way to Soulja Boy and The Pussycat Dolls. This lively playlist can add some excitement to this year’s Valentine’s Day, no matter someone’s relationship status. Find the official playlist ready to stream on Spotify @thewesternhowl:

          Love songs:

          1. “A Sunday Kind Of Love” — Etta James 
          2. “If I Ain’t Got You” — Alicia Keys 
          3. “Every Breath You Take”— The Police
          4. “Wonderwall” — Oasis
          5. “Cupid’s Chokehold / Breakfast In America” —  Gym Class Heroes
          6. “Kiss Me Thru The Phone” —  Soulja Boy, Sammie
          7. “Tainted Love” —  Soft Cell
          8. “She Will Be Loved” —  Maroon 5
          9. “Hopelessly Devoted To You” — Olivia John-Newton
          10. “Can’t Take My Eyes off Of You” —  Frankie Valli
          11. “Can’t Get Enough Of Your Love Babe” —  Barry White
          12. “Let’s Get It On” —  Marvin Gaye
          13. “My Girl” —  The Temptations
          14. “Love Her Madly” — The Doors
          15. “Kiss” —  Prince
          16. “More Than A Woman” —  Bee Gees
          17. “Lucky” —  Jason Mraz, Colbie Callait
          18. “Better Together” — Jack Johnson
          19. “My Stove’s on Fire” —  Robert Lester Folson
          20. “Baby, I’m Yours” —  Barbara Lewis

          Heartbreak songs:

          1. “One Is The Loneliest Number” —  Harry Nilsson
          2. “I Hate This Part” —  The Pussycat Dolls
          3. “Everybody Hurts” —  R.E.M.
          4. “Jar Of Hearts” —  Christina Perri
          5. “I’m Not In Love” —  10cc
          6. “What a Fool Believes” —  The Doobie Brothers
          7. “Time After Time” —  Cyndi Lauper
          8. “Heartbreak Hotel” —  Elvis Presley
          9. “I DON’T LOVE YOU ANYMORE” —  Tyler, The Creator
          10. “F*** Being Friends” —  Jessie Reyez
          11. “Bad Religion” —  Frank Ocean
          12. “Sign Of The Times” — Harry Styles
          13. “when the party’s over” —  Billie Eilish
          14. “Someone Like You” —  Adele
          15. “Fix You” —  Coldplay 
          16. “Baby Come Back” —  Player
          17. “Gonna Hurry (As Slow As I Can)” —  Dolly Parton
          18. “I Have Nothing” —  Whitney Huston 
          19. “My Heart Will Go On” —  Céline Dion
          20. “We’ll Meet Again” —  Vera Lynn, Sailors, Soldiers, & Airmen of Mer Majesty’s Forces

          Contact the author at ndean17@wou.edu

          Campus voices

          Western students answer the question, “How are you spending this Valentine’s Day?”

          Compiled by Stephanie Moschella |‌ ‌Digital Media Manager

          Name: Willa Carstensen

          Graduating Year: 2025

          Major: Business 

          “Sleeping 😂” 

          Name: Kendra Acker

          Year: First year

          Major: Education

          “Single”

          Name: Noah Miller

          Year: Sophomore

          Major: Music Education

          “Watching a cute new video by The West of Us!”

          Mix up some cocktails with Cupid

          Four mixed drinks to whip up for Valentine’s Day

          Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

          Valentine’s Day offers the perfect opportunity to enjoy a mixed drink. Celebrate with a significant other or a group of friends, or test bartending skills individually with these four Valentine’s inspired cocktails.

          KENTUCKY KISS

          Start to finish: 3 minutes

          Yields: 1 serving

          2 strawberries, sliced

          ½ ounce lemon juice

          ½ ounce maple syrup

          2 ounces bourbon whiskey

          Splash club soda

          In an old-fashioned glass, add the strawberries, lemon juice and maple syrup. Muddle well until the strawberries are mashed. Add the bourbon and fill the glass with ice. Stir well.

          Add a splash of club soda and, if desired, garnish with a strawberry for serving.

          Recipe from thespruceeats.com

          RED WINE MILKSHAKES

          Start to finish: 5 minutes

          Yields: 3 servings

          One 1.5-quart container vanilla ice cream

          1 cup red wine

          4 ounces vodka

          Whipped cream, for serving

          Maraschino cherries, for serving

          In a blender, blend ice cream, red wine and vodka until smooth. Divide between glasses and garnish with whipped cream and cherries.

          Recipe from delish.com

          SEX ON THE BEACH

          Start to finish: 5 minutes

          Yields: 1 serving

          2 ounces orange juice

          2 ounces cranberry juice

          1 ounce peach schnapps

          1 ounce vodka

          ½ ounce chambord or grenadine (optional)

          Orange slice, for serving

          Maraschino cherries, for serving

          In a shaker add orange juice, peach schnapps and many ice cubes. Shake vigorously for 10 seconds. Pour into a glass and fill the glass with ice to the top, and add vodka on top of the ice.

          If using chambord or grenadine, in a separate glass, gently mix chambord or grenadine with cranberry juice. Slowly pour this red mixture on top of ice cubes to create an ombre effect. Garnish and serve.

          Recipe from flawlessfood.co.uk

          VALENTINE’S DAY MIMOSA

          Start to finish: 5 minutes

          Yields: 4 servings

          1 bottle pink champagne, chilled

          1 cup pomegranate juice

          In each champagne flute, add ¼ cup pomegranate juice. Fill the rest of the way with pink champagne.

          Recipe from everydaymadefresh.com

          Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

          Six stay-at-home Valentine’s dates

          Unique date ideas for this quarantined Valentine’s Day 

          Allison Vanderzanden | Lifestyle Editor

          For those who usually celebrate Valentine’s Day with an extravagant date night, this year might feel disappointing. But being stuck inside doesn’t mean date nights can’t still be exciting. Hunker down with a significant other and have some fun with these date ideas. 

          • Try cooking each other’s favorite meal, or tackle a new dish with one another. Make a challenge out of it by creating a dinner or dessert with only ingredients currently in the pantry. 
          • Still have the travel bug? A number of museums, aquariums and other popular destinations are offering virtual tours and livestreams. Get immersed in places like the Guggenheim, the Louvre, the Smithsonian, Disney World’s Main Street, the Eiffel Tower, nearby aquariums and more all from the comfort of home. 
          • Partners can get cozy with an at-home camping trip. Pitch a tent in the backyard, or build a blanket fort in the bedroom or living room. Enjoy some s’mores — which can be cooked over a gas stove burner or in the microwave — and hot dogs. After cooking up some goodies, put aside the electronics and enjoy each other’s company under the stars or by candlelight. 
          • Get fancy and host a black tie evening for two at home. Dress up and break out the champagne or bubbly apple cider for a fancy dinner or movie night. 
          • Game nights are a classic, and each new round is unique. Sit down to play a favorite board or card game, or learn a new card game like Egyptian Ratscrew, GOPS or Briscola. Video games are also a fun option — hold a one-on-one match in “Super Smash Bros.” and “Mario Party,” play co-op in “Minecraft,” “Animal Crossing” and “Keep Talking and Nobody Explodes” or host a Jackbox matchup. 
          • Psychologist Arthur Aron presented 36 questions that are proven to generate closeness in partners. Sit down with a partner, friend or even stranger and increase intimacy by discussing these 36 questions as outlined by University of California Berkeley. 

          Looking for more ideas? Brainstorm a list of each person’s favorite activities and decide how to spend Valentine’s Day together. 

          Contact the author at avanderzanden19@mail.wou.edu

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