The content in the PHB is obviously most applicable. I'd prefer the players didn't actively reference the monster manual for knowledge of the creatures' weaknesses, at least not unless it's in-character for the characters to know such things (high bonus to Arcana or Nature or whatever). Since the campaign begins at moderately high levels (I don't have Hoard of the Dragon Queen yet, so we're skipping entirely over the part where you're supposed to build up), I'd probably allow each player to have one common or uncommon magic item, with certain choices subject to veto if they seem overpowered (I haven't referenced the lists in detail).
@TheGreenHermit Sounds like you'd be a good choice to play a character with specific knowledge of the Cult of the Dragon, and/or dragons in general. All the characters should be moderately-famous adventurers who have specifically been recruited by the Council of Waterdeep (assuming I stick with Forgotten Realms as the setting, which I probably will, despite not particularly liking it, just to save myself effort). So if you know any low-level spoilers about the adventure that you can't keep out of your character's actions, we can assume it's the result of your background fighting the Cult or whatever. Also I'll be tweaking a few things behind the scenes, and if you seem to be four steps ahead of the cult on everything, it just means I'll have to tweak harder.
It looks like we have 3 interested parties, so start thinking about who you'd like to play. I'd prefer if we could get about 2 more before we start. Whoever posts characters first gets dibs on playing their class/race/faction/etc. of choice. We will begin at level 6, and please specifically assume that your character is at least semi-famous as a hero (not necessarily a shining champion of good, but at least a trustworthy mercenary with several well-popularized exploits that would incline them favorably to the Lords' Alliance and other such groups). Characters with backgrounds such as Charlatan and Criminal are not impossible for this campaign seed, but they are less than encouraged; use your best judgment, and try not to be too much of a murderhobo.
