Use of Artificial Intelligence

Creativity is human. Technology is a tool.

At The Wayward Lantern, storytelling, imagination, and artistic expression are at the heart of everything we do.

As an artist and storyteller myself, I believe strongly in the value of human creativity. The adventures I create, the stories I tell, and the worlds I bring to the table are my own creative work. They are shaped by years of experience, imagination, and a genuine love of collaborative storytelling.

I also believe that artificial intelligence, like many other technologies, can be a useful tool when used thoughtfully and responsibly.

AI as a Tool, Not a Crutch

The Wayward Lantern may use AI-assisted tools in the development and presentation of certain materials, including illustrations, visual references, organizational assistance, editing, and other supporting tasks.

These tools do not replace the creative decisions behind our adventures.

The stories, characters, encounters, and experiences presented at our tables are guided by human imagination, preparation, and, most importantly, the choices made by the players themselves.

AI is a tool to support creativity, not a substitute for it.

Respect for Artists and Creative Work

As an artist, I recognize the time, skill, and dedication involved in creating original artwork.

The Wayward Lantern respects the contributions of artists, writers, and other creative professionals.

When displaying artwork or other creative material produced by a human artist other than myself, the creator will be credited by name wherever that material appears, subject to the creator's preferred attribution.

We believe in acknowledging the people whose creativity contributes to the experience.

Respecting Different Perspectives

We understand that artificial intelligence is a subject of considerable discussion within artistic, gaming, and creative communities.

Some people welcome these technologies, while others have ethical, professional, or personal concerns about their use.

Those concerns are valid subjects for discussion, and we respect the right of individuals to hold different opinions.

Participation in The Wayward Lantern does not require anyone to endorse or personally use AI-generated content.

We ask that discussions surrounding AI remain respectful, just as we expect of all other conversations at our tables.

AI Use by Players

Players are welcome to use AI-assisted tools when developing character concepts, organizing notes, exploring backstory ideas, or preparing for their adventures.

Using AI does not diminish a player's contribution to the game, and no player will be judged simply for choosing to use it.

However, we encourage players to discuss significant AI use with the Dungeon Master, particularly when it involves character creation, generated artwork, campaign material, or content intended to be shared with the group.

Transparency helps ensure that everyone understands how these tools are being used.

AI During Gameplay

AI-assisted tools may also be useful for practical purposes, such as quickly looking up a rule, clarifying terminology, organizing information, or assisting with accessibility.

However, AI-generated answers are not considered authoritative interpretations of Dungeons & Dragons rules.

Official published rules and the Dungeon Master's rulings take precedence.

Players should not use AI to access unpublished adventure information, obtain spoilers, or gain knowledge their characters would not reasonably possess.

Any use of AI that significantly affects gameplay should be discussed with the DM beforehand.

The Human Element Comes First

At its heart, Dungeons & Dragons is a shared human experience.

The unexpected decisions, laughter, disagreements, triumphs, and occasional disasters that make a session memorable come from the people gathered around the table.

No technology can replace that.

At The Wayward Lantern, AI may help us prepare the adventure, but the people at the table are the ones who bring it to life.

The Wayward Lantern — Where Every Adventure Becomes a Story.