CDL Player

The Concordant Defenders League (CDL) is a professional gladiator league that broadcasts live combat from the Kirinal Pit on the Hedron Network. CDL Players, or "pro adventurers", fight on the Pit Wall or dive into the Manifest specifically for entertainment. They battle monsters, invading armies, or sometimes each other for fame and profit. Each victory earns them coin, sponsorship deals, and trinkets from their adoring patrons. Some call the practice barbaric, but it's popularity is undeniable.

The CDL didn't exist when I was fresh Pit-Meat fighting on the Wall. But they did commemorate my exploits in the Copper Chronicles, event if they got the details wrong. The CDL keeps trying to get me to run promos for them, but I already get free drinks in every tavern in the Zone. What else does an orc need?

While most warriors come to the Kirinal Concordance Zone to serve as Kirinal Defenders, many secretly dream of the glitz and glory of becoming a CDL Player.

The Concordant Defenders League sends out scouts to monitor fresh Pit-Meat fighting in the Kirinal Pit. They select the deadliest (and most charismatic) to join their ranks. They broadcast their exploits on the Hedron Network. CDL Players can earn a lot of money, picking up sponsorships and becoming famous, as long as they can survive.

Every year, hundreds of squads apply to become CDL rookies. Most wash out during tryouts, or die during their first "live crawl." Those who survive the gauntlet become contracted CDL Players and get promoted on the Hedron Network. Only a few ever make it a big, and no one stays on top.

Remember the Puddle Jumpers!

Elenwe Heskiloth, last surviving member of the Puddle Jumpers
Type
Athlete


Cover image: Summer Camp 2025 Metamorphosis Header by grandfailure

Comments

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Jul 27, 2025 02:15

I feel like I can see the future with this one!

Jul 29, 2025 20:14 by Chris L

I like how you guys dragged this concept out of the depths of the campaign!

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Jul 29, 2025 19:53 by Dr Emily Vair-Turnbull

I can imagine the celebrity status these guys get.

Emy x
Explore Etrea | Summer Camp 2025
Jul 29, 2025 20:15 by Chris L

They're definitely at pro wrestler levels of fame on the Zone!

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Aug 2, 2025 00:53 by E. Christopher Clark

I dig it! Maybe it's because I've got rasslin' on the brain this weekend, but I'm totally imagining successful CDL players cutting promos and trash-talking their fellow competitors.

Aug 2, 2025 03:01 by Chris L

Definitely wrestling, gladiators, Hunger Games, and Running Man all in there!

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