With the fifth issue of “Legends of the Lance,” titled “Newkolt,” the Dragonlance saga closes a chapter, not just on its printed newsletter but on an era. Published in early 1999, this final mailed issue encapsulates the sweeping changes, heartfelt farewells, and bold aspirations of a franchise in flux. While it marks the end of the print edition, it does so with the promise of a digital rebirth, continuing the tradition in new form via TSR’s relaunched website.
The issue opens with an impassioned letter from Stan!, the newly anointed Dragonlance Creative Director. He delivers the bittersweet news that the newsletter will transition to an electronic format going forward. His message makes it clear, though, that this is not a retreat, but a victory. With over 7,000 subscribers and growing demand, the newsletter has proven its value. Stan! credits its success to the enthusiasm and creativity of fans, many of whom contribute directly to its pages. He also offers a heartfelt farewell to outgoing Brand Manager Sue Weinlein Cook, thanking her for years of guidance and inspiration.
Cook herself is the subject of the issue’s feature interview, conducted by Pat McGilligan. From her first encounter with Dungeons & Dragons in a Dynamite magazine article to her pivotal role in reviving the Dragonlance game line, Cook’s journey reads like a hero’s tale. She recalls struggling with the original rules as a teen, only to be swept into Krynn by the Chronicles trilogy. Her professional path took her from a bookstore to the TSR book department, and eventually into game development, where she helped usher in the Fifth Age. She details the strategic decisions that shaped the new saga—advancing the timeline, reintroducing magic, and emphasizing freedom-fighting heroes against tyrannical dragons. Now departing to become the managing editor of Amazing Stories, Cook leaves with confidence in the future direction of Dragonlance and its new stewards.
Another major highlight is the debut of the “Purifier,” a new character class conceived by Chris Schilling. These reclusive heroes of the wild are spellcasting protectors of nature, loyal to Chislev and hostile to civilization’s sprawl. Schilling offers detailed stats, mechanics, and roleplaying guidance that blend beautifully into the world’s ethos. With AD&D 2e compatibility and SAGA rules support, the class is a compelling addition for both storytellers and players.
Fantasy lore continues with Ron Vitale’s “Fires in the Sky,” a richly imagined adventure scenario revolving around mysterious meteoric stones and a gnome named Puget Twinkletail. The tale offers a layered mystery involving strange firestreaks, magnetic rocks, dragon conspiracies, and necromantic spirits. It’s loaded with compelling game hooks, including stealthy dragons, drowned meteors, and eerie Garden of the Dead locales. Narrators are given several paths to develop the story further, from diving expeditions to spiritual possession arcs.
Other notable entries include a charming “Spell-O-Rama” contribution by Matthew Lynch, which introduces a sea-magic spell called “Speed Current” to aid naval travel and escape. Angelika Lokotz, a longtime typesetter at TSR, is spotlighted in a behind-the-scenes feature that affectionately dubs her the “Typesetting Goddess,” capturing the human core of game production.
As ever, the community plays a vital role. The “Letters to the Editor” and “Talk Back” sections let fans voice their curiosity, opinions, and affection for the world of Krynn. One fan praises Tasslehoff’s adventurous spirit, another extols Tanis’s nobility, and others debate their favorite dragons. The feedback is vibrant and sincere, echoing the participatory nature of Dragonlance fandom.
“The Herald’s Report” brings the latest in-universe developments, including an assassination attempt on Governor-General Abrena, the haunting songs of mourning kender in Hylo, and cryptic visions from a minotaur prophet. These dispatches carry the same world-weaving quality as the newsletter’s best fiction.
Even lighter fare is given room to shine, such as Charlie Martin’s playful fashion guide to Palanthas high society. From pegasus-feather hats to naga-skin coats, the piece blends in-world satire with useful adventure nuggets. A noble’s desire for a roc feather or an enraged naga avenging its kin easily slip into any campaign.
The issue concludes with Sue Cook’s continued “Komplete Krynnish Kollection,” cataloging Dragonlance appearances in Dragon, Dungeon, and Polyhedron magazines. For collectors, scholars, and lorekeepers, it’s a trove of trivia and deep cuts.
Though “Newkolt” bids farewell to the printed page, it does so with the vibrance and heart that has always defined Dragonlance. It is a finale in form only – in spirit, it is a prelude to a new adventure. With storytellers at the helm and fans at the ready, Krynn marches boldly into the digital age.
