“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Session 39.33 — Vistel’s expedition

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands” Session 39.33, which Brian W. hosted in Newton, Mass., on Monday, 17 February 2014:

In one ancient world, there was a region where strange majicks and demihuman races thrived. The “Vanished Lands” were blessed by the gods and cursed by prophecy. Travelers became adventurers, and adventurers strove to be heroes in the face of many perils and wonders.

Various groups of mercenaries and diplomats have fought humanoids in the northwestern borderlands, encountered pirates on the Sea of Nagendwa, and wandered the hostile Halmed Desert and the wide Plains of Sathendo….

“Vistel’s Circus,” Player Character Party 39 in Gene D.’s ” Vanished Lands ” heroic fantasy campaign, using the Basic Fantasy Role-Playing Game, as of spring 2014:

“Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane” [Beruk A.]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) and stage seer, embittered by experiences in Hesolin’s Magisterium; with homunculus familiar Gerald; NGc, Lvl. 7

“Hamfast Hammerfist” [Brian W.]-male Zeda (proto-Germanic) human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 7

“Scully Strongbow” [Sara F.]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 7

“Corwin Windsong” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and former ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 6

“Elsa Fairbottom” [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with Banuq (winged cat) Penryn; NGc, Lvl. 6

“Tempestade” [Josh C.]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), former roustabout, now a follower of Otih; CGl, Lvl. 6

“Sir Torrel” [Alex W.]-male Hifalendorin human Paladin of Otih, the lord of the sun and justice; LGn, Lvl. 6

“Radius” [Jason E.R./departed]-male Modron Paladin of Primus, lord of Nirvana; exiled to the Prime Material plane; LGn, Lvl. 5

“16 to 18 February 1227 B.C.E.:” While sailing from Bokor Isle to Salhonif Island, the “Foamrunner” fought a giant squid before arriving at the Zarendo port of Riku. The away teams made new friends and enemies, contacted a guide, and hired porters to enter the jungle, where it avoided a dinosaur attack.

The expedition arrives at Estu, where it witnesses a meeting between civilized apes and Wemics (centauroid leonines). Guide Makena Walabu helps translate for introductions. Orangutan scout Anwar Waheed is curious about the newcomers and brings them into the village.

Anwar introduces the onetime circus performers to Acturis Leontis, a gorilla chieftain, and Padmini Tanushi, a gorilla shaman. They politely bid farewell to Wemics Vathud and Tauret and share a meal with the humans and demihumans.

Giacomo is impressed that the primates have managed to avoid the rule of Schm*ckF*ck, the Pit Fiend ruling much of Salhonif Island from a temple on volcanic Mount Tilefa. Acturis says that his people trade with their neighbors but avoid larger conflicts. He agrees with Makena that Queen Zapanga in the city-state of Selifa would be a helpful ally.

Hamfast declines the temptation to test his strength against the apes in a wrestling match. Scully asks Anwar whether it’s better to cross the savannah or jungles to get to Selifa. The javelin-bearing scout says he prefers the dense forests, but the outlanders may be more comfortable in the open.

Tempestade enjoys the local cuisine, which is very similar to that of his distant homeland. Corwin performs some music for those assembled, who join in on drums. Elsa proffers gifts of maps and wine and receives fruit liquor in return. Sir Torrel is wary around the talking apes, but they seem honorable.

Giacomo notices on the high ceilings many geometric carvings, which Acturis attributes to the Reptile Folk who built the city during an age of harmony among beast kin. Scully surreptitiously uses the Lens of True Sight and sees bas reliefs of many-headed Tiamat, mother of chromatic dragons.

Acturis asks Anwar to take the explorers to a vacant house for the evening. Once the group has some privacy, conversation turns to its mission of rescuing Lady Shadira, an Efreeti transformed and imprisoned by the greater devil.

The would-be heroes acknowledge that if they’re successful, they’ll probably need to take the Foamrunner back to Tarvulis Island before continuing on to the barbaric port of Gisar, where Tempestade plans to use an obelisk to return to his own time and rescue fellow slaves.

Scully hears a sound outside. The albino Flind looks out into the alley and sees Waneta Malila, a chimpanzee servant. The eavesdropper runs, and Scully tackles her. Zeda human Hamfast holds the chimp as Giacomo casts Dispel Magic, temporarily transforming Waneta back into her true form, that of a Zarendo human.

Hifalendorin human Giacomo questions the woman, who is reluctant to cooperate until he explains that they have a common foe, her Pit Fiend master. She says he has spies everywhere and that his lieutenant is an Osyluth (bone devil). Waneta seems unaware of the location of the Eye of Heaven, a gem said to be protecting Estu.

After some discussion, Scully and company let Waneta go. She promises not to reveal what she has learned and reverts to simian form. The next morning, Tempestade, Corwin, Elsa, and Sir Torrel keep watch over Makena and the porters, while Giacomo, Hamfast, and Scully get a tour of Estu from Anwar.

They see other intelligent apes, Lizard Man ruins, and an abandoned ziggurat near the center of the village. Anwar says his people avoid the ancient edifice, but he doesn’t prevent the curious team from probing further.

Wizard Giacomo, Fighter Hamfast, and Ranger Scully find a ramp descending beneath the step pyramid. As they walk, they step on numerous bones, and Anwar warns them that there are likely traps. Scully glimpses a large idol with one intact eye.

The statue of the plum, red-skinned humanoid flickers in torchlight before the rumble of stones indicates that a trap has been triggered. Anwar leads the way back to the surface.

Classic D&D Player's Handbook — Dungeon idol

Giacomo casts Levitate to aid their hasty escape. They privately confirm that the Eye of Heaven is indeed at the center of Estu, possibly protecting the apes from the devil in the mountain….

While we missed Josh, Bruce, Rich, and Alex last week, I’m glad that Beruk, Brian, and Sara were game. Not only did we convert their characters to the latest D20/FATE house rules, but we also got some good role-playing in!

I look forward to seeing everyone at our next “Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” and Jason E.R.’s “Glassworks: the Devil’s Den” sessions!

“Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” Session 40.10 — Into the woods, again

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands” Session 40.10, which was held on Sunday, 16 February 2014:

Long ago in a distant land, spirits and men directly traded bamboo, silk, and steel. Wars to the west, twisted monsters, and power-hungry sorcerers threatened the eastern kingdoms, so the call went out for new heroes of honor and tact….

Player Character Party 40 in Gene D.’s “Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” Asian-style telecom campaign, using the Basic Fantasy Role-Playing Game and Advanced Dungeons & Dragons (1st Ed.) Oriental Adventures, plus house rules, Skype, and anonline dice roller, as of spring 2014

“Souji Nobuto ‘Sonny’ Yoshimitsu” [Beruk A.]-male Shengtese Tian Kensai (eastern human weapon master) from a dishonored house in the Lion Clan, specializing in chain weapons; LNg, Lvl. 4
“Toshiharu ‘Toshi’ Sembutsu” [Byron V.O.]-male Shan Sao Wu Jen (eastern Halfling Wizard) from the Tiger Clan with a destiny; NGc, Lvl. 4
“Ember Talon” [Sara F.]-female Crane Hengeyokai Wu (shapeshifting Druid), actually a young gold dragon banished from the Celestial Court; NGl, Lvl. 4
“Saigo Kasugi” [Bruce K.]-male Bamboo Spirit Folk Samurai (eastern Sylvan Elf Cavalier) discreetly serving his daimyo; LNg, Lvl. 3
“Soske’ Tiatoshe” [Geoff C.]-male Shengtese Tian Shukenja (eastern human Cleric), priest of Shang-ti and animist from the Phoenix Clan, prophesied to do great things; LNg, Lvl. 4
“Moon Jung-mo” [Dexter V.H.]-male Nannuattan Ninja (Msamaki, eastern Dark Elf Assassin) who has left the Shadow’s Claw clan and is posing as a River Spirit Folk Yakuza (eastern Grey Elf Rogue); LNg, Lvl. 3

“6 to 7 April 1227 B.C.E.:” On its way southeast to the city of Sogewa, the adventuring party met a dozen ronin and the six Orc samurai pursuing them. It also passed a thawing battlefield and rested in Chin Mok until a huge flaming boar rampaged down the village’s streets. The group lured the beast out into a rice paddy and learned that the nature spirit’s sacred grove had been violated by hunters.

Sonny recommends that Saigo stay at the “Pelican’s Chin” inn and help keep watch for the remainder of the night. Toshi notes that Shengtese human farmers should know better than to desecrate such a grove.

Ember, who spoke with the piglet before it ran back to the woods, hopes to learn more from other local wildlife. Soske’ is outraged at the sacrilege, while Jung-Mo stealthily guards Lady Yun Aei-Yong, the kingdom of Gokuri’s emissary.

In the morning, Saigo practices with his new katana. Sonny asks innkeeper Tan Tse about her village. She directs the visitors to a round house with a thatched roof at the end of the street. Soske’ and company find Chin Mok’s head men talking with a Wolfen bounty hunter.

Robed Fong Kien is grateful for the group’s help in repelling the flaming boar, and militia leader Yang Kuang says that most people avoid the nearby woods. Ivor Bloodpelt says that he is hunting Shiskikura Eiji, a Tsucharim human Yamen-Ren (Barbarian) bandit.

Soske’ asks for proper burial rites for those in the battlefield, and Fong says that he’ll send a request for priests. Sonny and Saigo notice that Ivor is nervous, so they and Soske’ take the Wolfen out for drinks to loosen his tongue. Jung-Mo continues courting Ember.

Ivor admits knocking over some standing stones in the grove and gives Soske’ 40 yuan (20 silver pieces, or 2 tael/gold pieces) to help restore them. The shaggy humanoid also says that he smelled smoke and heard strange laughter in the area.

The group leaves Lady Yun in the care of Draconian bodyguard Oh Kum-Ja at the “Pelican’s Chin” and heads through rice paddies to the tangled woods. Saigo is tempted to go off the trail to pursue strange sounds, but his friends follow a stream to the sacred grove.

Watch out for hidden dangers — A sacred grove

As expected, they find toppled carvings, but Wu Ember is surprised to notice that the mossy turf has been torn up in a struggle. Apparently, Ivor didn’t tell them everything.

Kensai Sonny and Samurai Saigo warily watch the woods as Soske’, Ember, and Saigo work to reset the stones. Wu-Jen Toshi casts Detect Magic and senses a trace of summoning. Shukenja Soske’ uses Sense Elements: Psychometry and glimpses claws vs. paws — presumably the Wolfen’s.

Toshi casts Know History and has a vision of a gold mane and nature spirits fleeing the area. Soske’s Detect Evil picks up a strong trace. Sonny climbs a tree and finds a hammock-like nest with cigar butts.

Jung-Mo finds a hoof print like that of a horse or pony. Ember shifts to crane form and flies to talk with some songbirds. They are initially reluctant to communicate with a stranger, but they say a hunter fought with their friend Tiki.

A small bird approaches and turns into a little girl in a white dress. She asks for gifts, but Soske’ senses malicious intent. Ember cries out Tiki’s name, to which the strange child laughs.

Hengeyokai Ember flies down, raking Tiki with her claws. Bamboo Spirit Folk Saigo draws his katana and plunges it into the eerie girl. Spirit Folk Jung-Mo sneaks around and hurls a whippet (incendiary boomerang).

Shengtese Soske’ casts Protection From Evil on Saigo. Tiki shrugs off the whippet and gathers shadows, revealing her true form as a monster with a horse’s head and rear legs and long arms ending in black talons. Sonny swings his kusari-gama but misses.

Shan Sao Toshi and Jung-Mo are temporarily incapacitated by Tiki’s hideous laughter. Ember reverts to humanoid form and casts Entangle, but the equine horror is unaffected. Saigo again slashes at his foe, as Soske’ falls back to the sacred grove and changes water into holy rice wine for his arrows.

Tiki taunts each of the would-be heroes and tries to trample Saigo. Sonny switches to his kama and makes a double attack. Ember Wild Shapes into bear form.

Jung-Mo rejoins the fight with his wakizashi [ninja-to] and more whippets. Toshi casts Elemental Burst on a rock, exploding it, followed by Magic Missile.

Sonny briefly trips Tiki, but she stands up and shrinks out of his chains. Soske’ fires arrows, and Ember finishes off their foe with an ursine growl. Saigo beheads the unnatural beast.

Toshi flies up to the creature’s nest and retrieves a sacrificial knife, pipe weed, and the following coinage:

200 yuan (100 silver pieces, or 10 gold pieces)
40 tael (electrum pieces or 20 g.p.)
150 tael (75 g.p.)

Toshi casts Detect Curse and determines that the knife is of Goblinoid or extraplanar origin. Each party member gets about 30 tael (15 g.p.). Sonny plucks six gold threads from the monster’s mane.

Soske’ works to purify the area around the sacred grove, aided by Ember. Jung-Mo wonders who would have summoned the horse-headed girl, and Saigo agrees that they should question Ivor and Shiskikura.

The adventurers return to Chin Mok by nightfall. Fong Kien is grateful, and Yang Kuang says that the Wolfen hunter has left the village. Lady Yun identifies Tiki’s head as that of a Tikbalang, a dangerous shapeshifter.

Soske’ hopes to track down the summoner behind the Tikbalang, but Saigo hopes to avoid local entanglements while bringing Lady Yun to Sogewa, capital of Tong Sheng. The wanderers rest another night in Chin Mok….

It was great to see everyone virtually! Thanks again for your patience and feedback as we try out my latest D20/FATE house rules for both “Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” and “Vistel’s Circus” teams. I hope to see all of you online tomorrow night.

I also look forward to continuing Jason E.R.’s “Glassworks: the Devil’s Den” superhero scenario, and let Byron and me know about the proposed crossover with his Middle Earth Role-Playing game with his sons.

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Update 39.32 — “Almost too stupid to die”

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands” Session 39.32, which Rich C.G. hosted in Waltham, Mass., on Monday, 3 February 2014:

“Vistel’s Circus,” Player Character Party 39 in Gene D.’s “Vanished Lands” heroic fantasy campaign, using the Basic Fantasy Role-Playing Game, as of spring 2014:

“Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane” [Beruk A.]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) and stage seer, embittered by experiences in Hesolin’s Magisterium; with homunculus familiar Gerald; NGc, Lvl. 6

“Hamfast Hammerfist” [Brian W.]-male Zeda (proto-Germanic) human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 6

“Scully Strongbow” [Sara F.]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 6

“Corwin Windsong” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and former ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 6

“Elsa Fairbottom” [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with Banuq (winged cat) Penryn; NGc, Lvl. 6

“Tempestade” [Josh C.]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), former roustabout, now a follower of Otih; CGl, Lvl. 6

“Sir Torrel” [Alex W.]-male Hifalendorin human Paladin of Otih, the lord of the sun and justice; LGn, Lvl. 6

“Radius” [Jason E.R./departed]-male Modron Paladin of Primus, lord of Nirvana; exiled to the Prime Material plane; LGn, Lvl. 5

“11 to 15 February 1227 B.C.E.:” On the way from Tarvulis Island to Bokor Isle, the Sea Elven schooner Foamrunner encountered a violent storm, a Siren disguised as a shipwreck victim, and a Kuo Toa in a chariot drawn by sharks. Scully sensed a frightful presence, possibly a dragon.

At the open port of Laguro, Elsa befriended fellow brewer Ghalil ibn Rashid. At the “GlassCraft” shop and officers’ club, experienced plane traveler “Milos Volorn” [Beruk] gave time-displaced Tempestade advice and provided more magic items.

The onetime circus performers then leave the pirate haven and sails eastward on the Sea of Nagendwa. The group decides to split into two away teams at the port of Riku on Salhonif Island.

However, Tempestade notices that the Foamrunner has slowed. He looks over the rail and is raked by toothed tentacles! Tempestade alerts Capt. Scarlet and the rest of the crew and passengers about the giant squid attack.

Mighty Hamfast swings his new war hammer at the beast, and Giacomo casts Magic Missiles in the form of force arrows. The northern humans sever two of the squid’s limbs.

Hill Dwarf Elsa summons a water Elemental, whom she nicknames “Puddles.” The cephalopod strikes Tempestade and Hamfast, but Sir Torrel misses with his sword. Gnoll Scully fires arrows from the crow’s next but also misses the writhing tentacles.

Tempestade dodges rubbery appendages, while Corwin struggles to help the Sea Elven sailors with damage control. Giacomo and Hamfast continue to pummel the squid, and Elsa sends “Puddles” to hit its center mass. She also readies Call Lightning.

In a burst of ink, the giant squid swims away. Sometime later, the Foamrunnerarrives at Riku and sends dinghys to bring the two squads ashore. Capt. Scarlet agrees to return in a week. Giacomo, Scully, and Tempestade enter the town first.

Mage Giacomo inquires about lodgings and finds the “Vine Inn” nestled among the roots of a giant banyan tree. Ranger Scully dons a piratical eyepatch and sells the severed tentacles. Dark-skinned Monk Tempestade enjoys the warm, humid surroundings and blends in with the local people.

The second away team consists of Elsa, Hamfast, Sir Torrel, and Corwin. Druid Elsa leaves her brewing gear on the Foamrunner and poses as a botanist collecting plant and soil samples. Fighter Hamfast and Paladin Torrel serve as guards, and Bard Corwin is easily distracted by attractive women.

Giacomo puts on scholar’s robes and sits down to a dinner of smoked goat and lentil stew with Tempestade. Scully talks with Layla Star-Eyes, a Zarendo human and captain of the Silver Manta. The corsair tries to recruit Scully and explains that most tribes in the archipelago are matriarchal.

On their way to the inn, the second squad stops in the market. Elsa notices trade in coffee, cocoa, and fruits and buys some mango wine. Hamfast is smitten with Tineka, an Ophidian N’anga (snake woman Cleric) of Tiamat who invites him to spend the night at her hatchery for the community’s Reptile Folk.

Sir Torrel notices something flying low overhead. The curious Hifalendorin knight follows the avian humanoid to a second-story ledge, where the Aarakocra passes a message to someone inside. Elsa overhears snippets of conversation in Infernal.

The two teams meet at the inn before going to a round rented house. Giacomo contacts Makena Walabu, the wife of a local hunter referred by Milos as a guide. Elsa and Corwin calculate costs in Riku at 20 gold pieces per person for food, lodging, clothing, and supplies for their tropical expedition.

That night, Giacomo, his homunculus familiar Gerald, and Tempestade go to a tavern. Hamfast helps Tineka keep the hatchery warm and shares his dream of making his name in the barbaric port of Gisar.

Scully stealthily follows Hamfast and keeps watch from a discreet distance to make sure the Zeda human comes to no harm from the priestess of the mother of chromatic dragons. Elsa arranges with Makena to hire porters for the jungle.

Sir Torrel and Elsa track down the Aarakocra. Colorfully plumaged Kito says he is a messenger. When the outlanders mention that they are headed to the city-state of Selifa for sightseeing, Kito recommends a slight detour to Estu, a ruined Lizard Folk village now inhabited by intelligent apes.

At the tavern, Giacomo introduces himself as “Mortimer,” and Tempestade names himself “Miguel.” Lizard Man prospector Nopaltzin [Brian W./ Non-Player Character] buys a round for everyone, but Keilana Sirocco [Sara/N.P.C.] steals some of his gold.

Overly friendly barflies Sridan Vasuprisan [Rich/N.P.C.] and Oyabu [Alex/N.P.C.] get Mortimer drunk and offer to bring him upstairs. Watchful Miguel shoves them back, starting a bar brawl. Nopaltzin happily wades into the mayhem.

Mortimer throws up, and curious Keilana lifts up his cloak, revealing Gerald. The thief screams. Miguel tosses banana beer at Sridan, and Mortimer shakily casts Sleep, incapacitating Oyabu. Sridan grabs Gerald by the neck and runs out.

Keilana searches Oyabu’s pockets and knocks him out a second time while Tempestade and Giacomo run after Sridan. Giacomo casts Magic Missile at Sridan, freeing winged marionette Gerald to fly back to him. Tempestade drags Giacomo and Gerald back to the rented house.

The next morning, Giacomo nurses a hangover, as well as a fever. Makena confirms that a tribe of apes lives in Estu and adds that they were rumored to have been drawn there by the “Eye of Heaven,” a magical gem.

As the group enters the rain forest, Druid Elsa casts Endure Elements on her companions. Hamfast applies “Satim’s Bane,” an alchemical insect repellent, but Sir Torrel suffers in full armor. The porters carry water, food, and camping gear on long poles.

The adventuring party hacks its way north into the jungle, surrounded by the strange sounds of birds, monkeys, and other creatures. Tempestade expresses doubts about whether he can persuade the group to help him free fellow slaves in his own time, but Giacomo notes that there are places for them to resettle.

Scully scouts ahead and climbs a tree for a better look. The tree canopy stretches east, while a grassy savannah is to the west, and Mount Tilefa smokes far to the north. Shedding fur, Scully climbs as high as the branches will bear her, and she spots pterodactyls circling overhead.

The Ranger is further surprised when she realizes that something large is munching leaves right next to her! She offers a branch to the placid brachiosaurus and hears another dinosaur approaching.

Makena identifies it as a “Mouth That Walks,” and the caravan scatters. Elsa sticks with Makena, Corwin, and the porters, as Tempestade uses his enchanted boots to ascend into the trees. Scully slides into sniping position and draws her bow.

A tyrannosaurus rex bites into the brachiosaur’s neck and leaps onto its back, tearing out hunks of flesh. Giacomo and Hamfast back away, and Sir Torrel readies a Spirit Hammer. Bloodthirsty pterosaurs and velociraptors arrive to share in the kill.

Elsa switches from Calm Animal to Wind Wall, pushing back raptors pursuing the retreating wanderers. Tempestade talks with animals to dissuade one scavenger from from attacking. Scully uses the Lens of True Sight to discern that the tyrannosaurus and some of the other reptiles are in fact people transformed by the Pit Fiend at Mt. Tilefa.

Another raptor runs after Hamfast and Sir Torrel, but Giacomo casts Sleep on it. The explorers are more cautious as they continue through the jungle toward Estu, where they see apes and Wemics….

It was good to see most of you last night, and thanks again, Rich, for hosting. Happy Birthday to Sara and Bruce! Sara, I hope you feel better soon, and Bruce, enjoy Winter Fantasy!

I look forward to resuming the “Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” telecom campaign next Sunday. Jason E.R. and I will let everyone know when his “Glassworks: the Devil’s Den” and my “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” games will meet in February.

“Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” Session 40.9 — Orc Samurai and flaming boar

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands” Session 40.9, which was held on Sunday, 26 January 2014:

“Souji Nobuto ‘Sonny’ Yoshimitsu” [Beruk A.]-male Shengtese Tian Kensai (eastern human weapon master) from a dishonored house in the Lion Clan, specializing in chain weapons; LNg, Lvl. 2
“Toshiharu ‘Toshi’ Sembutsu” [Byron V.O.]-male Shan Sao Wu Jen (eastern Halfling Wizard) from the Tiger Clan with a destiny; NGc, Lvl. 2
“Ember Talon” [Sara F.]-female Crane Hengeyokai Wu (shapeshifting Druid), actually a young gold dragon banished from the Celestial Court; NGl, Lvl. 2
“Saigo Kasugi” [Bruce K.]-male Bamboo Spirit Folk Samurai (eastern Sylvan Elf Cavalier) discreetly serving his daimyo; LNg, Lvl. 2
“Soske’ Tiatoshe” [Geoff C.]-male Shengtese Tian Shukenja (eastern human Cleric), priest of Shang-ti and animist from the Phoenix Clan, prophesied to do great things; LNg, Lvl. 2
“Moon Jung-mo” [Dexter V.H.]-male Nannuattan Ninja (Msamaki, eastern Dark Elf Assassin) who has left the Shadow’s Claw clan and is posing as a River Spirit Folk Yakuza (eastern Grey Elf Rogue); LNg, Lvl. 2

“1 to 5 April 1227 B.C.E.:” The adventuring party had left Gokuri hunters and the Balef River behind. At the Shengtese human town of Shang Tao, the escorts of Lady Yun Aei-Yong rested, resupplied, and were brought before the local lord.

At Soske’s recommendation, the group turns south toward the village of Chin Mok rather than east to Chung Kwang Shui to avoid potential pursuers. Lady Yun’s ultimate destination is Sogewa, the provincial capital of Tong Sheng or Silado.

The spring thaw has arrived on the eastern Plains of Sathendo, bringing sunnier days but nights that are still cool and damp. Toshi and Ember shift to bird form to scout ahead. They fly over grasslands with occasional woods, hills, and streams.

Sonny keeps a wary eye out for more bandits or would-be assassins. In Jung-Mo’s carriage, Soske’ chats with Lady Yun about their difficult families. Saigo, Jung-Mo, and Oh Kum-Ja, Lady Yun’s Draconian guard, also keep watch.

As the rutted trail winds through some hills, the travelers see about a dozen men approaching on a parallel switchback. The Ronin (masterless Samurai) step aside to let the caravan pass, but Soske’ and Ember pause to ask some questions.

Ruyin Tso says that his squad is trying to return home and acknowledges that he is being chased. Shukenja Soske’ shares sake and casts Guidance to help the weary warriors on their way.

That evening, the team prepares to stop for the night when Wu Ember notices another fire ahead. Toshi stealthily flies ahead in baza (bird) form, and the Wu Jen sees six heavily armored humanoids roasting something — or someone — on a spit. Toshi and Ember quietly return to their camp.

Late at night, Toshi is on watch when he sees glowing canine eyes. He and Ember awaken their companions. Yoon Jeaki, an Orc Samurai and warg rider serving the Crab Clan, prefers to talk with Shengtese humans Sonny and Soske’ than with Zedu demihumans Saigo or Toshi.

Ember helps merchant Jung-Mo persuade Lady Yun and Oh Kum-Ja to stay in the carriage. The Nannuattan emissary believes that the green-skinned Orcs should defer to her, but Ember points out that they do not have Gokuri banners.

Yoon explains that he is searching for deserters. Kensai Sonny (who did not talk with Ruyin) promises to look out for traitors, and Soske’ offers his blessings on the Shengtese Samurai. The wanderers are relieved when they part ways with the Orcs in the morning.

Sometime later, the diplomatic party finds an old battlefield, where broken bones and weapons jut out from the thawing mud. Sonny and Saigo stay close to Lady Yun and Oh Kum-Ja. Toshi casts Detect Magic and learns that spells were cast in the fight and that some of the armor is cursed.

Ember checks tracks but finds no trace of the recent Ronin or warg-riding Orcs. The Druid also casts Grow to heal a bit of the plant growth destroyed by trampling troops. Jung-Mo conducts his own search and reports that the area has already been thoroughly scavenged.

Soske’ senses ghosts and numerous other Undead, so he casts Water to Wine and conducts last rites. The priests’ efforts send many of the spirits to their final rest. Sonny recommends sticking to open terrain to avoid ambush. Accustomed to forest, Shan Sao Toshi and Bamboo Spirit Folk Saigo reluctantly agree.

The next day, the delegates of three kingdoms arrive at Chin Mok. They pass peasants knee-deep in flooded fields, planting rice. The village is surrounded by a wooden palisade, but no uniformed militia is visible.

At the “Stork’s Gullet,” Soske’ and company pay 40 tael (20 gold pieces) for lodgings, food, and provisions for themselves and their steeds. Most of Chin Mok’s residents are human, but Ember is pleased to see some other crane Hengeyokai.

Toshi busies himself by building a next of blankets and straw in a hammock. Sonny is glad to have a roof over his head, and Jung-Mo slips out to pursue some shady business. Similarly, Saigo leaves to look for a geisha.

Soske’ does a divination, which reveals that the party will rest comfortably — at least until trouble arrives. Several hours later, the group is awakened by a commotion outside.

A huge flaming boar charges down the village’s streets, overturning carts and sending pedestrians scampering for shelter. Saigo, Jung-Mo, and Oh Kum-Ja stay with Lady Yun in the tavern, while Sonny, Toshi, Ember, and Soske’ go to investigate.

Angry nature spirit — Angry spirit charges

Druid Ember casts Entangle, slightly slowing the magical beast. Wizard Toshi casts Magic Missile, and Cleric Soske’ maneuvers to get ahead of the boar. Unfortunately, Ember’s Enthrall Animal and Soske’s Calm have no effect on the angry spirit.

Martial artist Sonny swings a chain, snaring one of the creature’s legs and keeping it from overrunning Soske’. Quick-thinking Ember casts Create Water into a trough, which she overturns toward the monster. The splashing liquid shrinks it slightly.

Toshi casts Elemental Burst on the earth and throws a bucket of water at the flaming boar. Soske’ draws his bow and yells, “Lead it out to the rice paddies!” Sonny leaps over the beast, wrapping his chain around its other hind leg and pulling it over.

The boar drags Sonny as Ember shifts to crane form. She swoops down to help lure it out of Chin Mok. Toshi slings stones at the porcine horror, while Soske’ stays a step ahead of it by pulling street carts into its path.

Sonny swipes the boar on its tusked snout and yells at the villagers to open the gate. He jumps into a rice paddy, dragging the chained creature behind him. It holds its ground. Toshi casts Shocking Grasp, and Soske’ fires more arrows to goad it forward.

Ember ends the battle by Wild Shaping into an ox and shoving the burning boar into the water. It emits a cloud of steam and shrinks into a squealing piglet, which Sonny and Soske’ grab.

Ember asks the nature spirit why it was rampaging in Chin Mok. Between protests about being manhandled, the piglet says that it sought revenge for hunters who violated its sacred grove. Ember releases the spirit, which runs away from the farming village….

Happy Birthday, Beruk, and Dexter and Bruce, we missed you at this past weekend’s game! At the moment, I’m leaning against running “A New Dawn” on Super Bowl Sunday, but let me know who of you would be available.

In the meantime, it was good to see some of you at the kickoff for Jason E.R.’s “Glassworks: the Devil’s Den” superhero scenario (using Icons). I look forward to continuing with the “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” face-to-face group next Monday, 3 February 2014, weather permitting.

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Session 39.31 — Peril and pirates

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands” Session 39.31, which Brian W. hosted in Newton, Mass., on Monday, 13 January 2014:

“Vistel’s Circus,” Player Character Party 39 in Gene D.’s ” Vanished Lands ” heroic fantasy campaign, using the Basic Fantasy Role-Playing Game, as of spring 2014:

“Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane” [Beruk A.]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) and stage seer, embittered by experiences in Hesolin’s Magisterium; with homunculus familiar Gerald; NGc, Lvl. 6

“Hamfast Hammerfist” [Brian W.]-male Zeda (proto-Germanic) human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 6

“Scully Strongbow” [Sara F.]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 6

“Corwin Windsong” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and former ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 6

“Elsa Fairbottom” [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with Banuq (winged cat) Penryn; NGc, Lvl. 6

“Tempestade” [Josh C.]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), former roustabout, now a follower of Otih; CGl, Lvl. 6

“Sir Torrel” [Alex W.]-male Hifalendorin human Paladin of Otih, the lord of the sun and justice; LGn, Lvl. 6

“Radius” [Jason E.R./departed]-male Modron Paladin of Primus, lord of Nirvana; exiled to the Prime Material plane; LGn, Lvl. 5

“4 to 10 February 1227 B.C.E.:” The onetime circus performers had traveled from the city of Falit to a former dragon’s lair on Tarvulis Island. There, they consulted arcane and divine spellcasters on how to rescue an Efreet held prisoner by a greater Devil, how to travel through time and space to free slaves, and how to fight the dreaded Ghost Fleet.

However, not everything went as planned. In a scrying chamber, Giacomo was temporarily overcome by the “Mad Mage” Ezra, trapped in a tattoo on his back. Hamfast and Tempestade briefly visited the barbaric port of Gisar, thanks to mischievous pseudodragon Tequila.

Scully played with a Giff’s blunderbuss, and Elsa compared notes on the accursed ailment known as Scourge and on the cult of Krakas, lord of the maelstrom, with Drow Wizard “Vasec” [Alex J./Non-Player Character] and Zarendo human Cleric “Tondra” [Rob A.S./N.P.C.].

Corwin asked for magic to help save Lady Shadira, the Efreet Polymorphed into a Shambling Mound by Pit Fiend “Schm*ckF*ck” on Salhonif Island. Sir Torrel had a run-in with a giant leech but fared better against a hydra.

Vasec creates a Lens of True Sight , which Scully carries for the adventuring party to find Lady Shadira. The explorers reboard the schooner Foamrunner, which Thalassaquendi (western Sea Elf) Capt. Scarlet takes south across the Sea of Nagendwa.

Scully takes a dip in the warm waters with some of the Foamrunner’s crew. Thanks in part to her magic items, the Flind is a strong swimmer, and she enjoys chasing tropical fish. Her friends are less happy about the smell of wet dog, but Elsa casts Create Water to help wash off the salt.

The Sea Elves pause on deck, and Capt. Scarlet later explains to Tempestade that they were praying as they passed over a holy site. Sir Torrel, who had recently joined the Order of the Golden Lion in Falit with Scully, casts Sense Weather and warns of an imminent change.

The swift ship’s passengers and crew are battered during a violent storm. Hamfast and Tempestade are bruised while being tossed around in their cabins, while Giacomo, Elsa, Scully, and Sir Torrel hang onto the main (top) deck.

When the storm eventually passes, Capt. Scarlet notes to Corwin and company that the moon and stars aren’t yet visible through clouds, so she doesn’t know how far off course they are. Elsa casts Know Direction to help resume their journey.

A day or so later, the sailors spot someone clinging onto a floating chest. Corwin, Elsa, and Sir Torrel take a dinghy out to investigate. Back on the Foamrunner, Hamfast spots the dorsal fins of approaching sharks.

As Corwin reaches out to the apparent shipwreck survivor, she tosses her hair back, revealing her beautiful features. However, Elsa, who has shifted into seal form, sees fins instead of human legs beneath the waves!

Sir Torrel casts Detect Evil, which reveals malicious intent. The woman gazes at Corwin, to no effect, so she starts singing, enthralling Hamfast and Scully. From the Foamrunner, Barbari human Tempestade hurls sling stones at the Siren.

Half-Elf Corwin draws his sword, drawing first blood from the amphibian. Hill Dwarf Elsa shifts to shark form and swims into battle. Albino Gnoll Scully fires arrows, and Zeda human Hamfast readies a harpoon for the sharks on the opposite side of the ship.

Hifalendorin humans Giacomo and Sir Torrel prepare spells. Giacomo’s Magic Missile misfires, turning his hands red. Torrel’s Protection From Evil deafens him to the alluring Siren’s song.

Meanwhile, Hamfast spots a sled or chariot behind the two sharks, and a Kuo Toa driver approaches the Foamrunner. Monk Tempestade maneuvers on deck to see both enemies. Bard Corwin begins a countersong to drown out the Siren and free his friends.

Still in shark form, Druid Elsa swims over to the other sharks and casts Calm Animal. They slow their approach, causing the aquatic chariot to sink. Ranger Scully stares helplessly at the Siren.

Hamfast fires a harpoon at the Kuo Toa, but the fish man pulls it out and throws it back at the Fighter. Wizard Giacomo’s Fireball also fizzles, but Paladin Sir Torrel’s Silence is effective in breaking the Siren’s spell. She dives beneath the rowboat.

Corwin casts Death Armor on himself, as Elsa swims around the Foamrunner. Scully looks for a foe who’s not submerged, and Hamfast again fires the harpoon at the Kuo Toa.

The Siren leaps out of the water at Corwin, and Sir Torrel slices her in twain, distracting the sharks. Giacomo casts Sphere of Force, killing the Kuo Toa, which Hamfast reels back to the ship. Those in the dinghy retrieve the bobbing chest.

Scully claims the Kuo Toa’s malachite locket before Capt. Scarlet orders it tossed back into the sea. In the chest, Corwin finds 50 silver pieces, and Sir Torrel claims a Potion of Fire Resistance. Elsa privately pays Capt. Scarlet extra for the risks to her crew.

The next night, Scully awakens in a panic. She hears leathery wings and slowly climbs to the crow’s nest. There, Scully finds Fingonel, a young Sea Elf sailor, cowering in terror. In the morning, Tempestade and Elsa attend to the panicked women, noting that a dragon or devil could have flown overhead.

Sir Torrel reiterates his vow to smite evil, and Capt. Scarlet notes that theFoamrunner is no longer passing over or through the Coral Kingdom. She warns of Aboleth, psionic and fiendish fish of the deep.

The away team prepares to go to the open port of Laguro on Bokor Island, where it hopes to consult an experienced plane traveler known as “Valoren.” Albino scout Scully recommends disguises and dyes her fur. Sir Torrel pulls on a hooded cloak and uses his new Amulet of Conceal Alignment.

Giacomo, Hamfast, Corwin, and Elsa say that their group is motley enough to blend in with corsairs and swashbucklers. Capt. Scarlet says she’ll return in a few days rather than draw too much unwanted attention.

The group finds a ramshackle but growing pirate town and walks to the “Otter’s Oil” tavern, passing a small arena on the way. The new arrivals see a mix of human nationalities, a few Reptile Folk, and a Shalverin (short aquatic humanoid). The rough crowd pays little heed to Bokor Island’s newcomers.

A wretched hive of scum and villainy — The “Otter’s Oil” in Laguro, on Bokor Isle

After chatting with innkeeper Tara MacAlister, Elsa tries a gelatinous drink — carrion crawler juice! Giacomo and Scully stick with berry wine, and Hamfast and Corwin taste slightly skunky ale. Sir Torrel orders milk and then is surly to maintain his cover.

Tara tells Elsa of her supplier, Ghalil ibn Rashid, and that Valoren can be found at “GlassCraft,” a shop selling spyglasses to ship captains. After reserving cheap rooms and finishing their meal, the travelers head back out into Laguro’s winding streets.

Ghalil turns out to be a tall Suthern (proto-Arabic) human whose shop is a tangle of copper pipes, hot cauldrons, and a mill grinding mash. He eagerly shows fellow brewer Elsa his exotic ingredients such as a dinosaur egg and rotten carcasses, which the rest of the group finds nauseating.

Elsa and Ghalil trade recipes, and she trades for potent potables including “Devil’s Piss.” At the large GlassCraft shop, Nubian archer Djekari escorts the visitors to a showroom. They see well-dressed pirates such as Chundo Arcil, the cigar-smoking captain of the “Hangman’s Skull,” ogling spyglasses, crystal balls, and miniature ships in bottles.

The former members of “Vistel’s Circus” are then taken past club rooms, where they see plush chairs and gambling tables. Giacomo is blocked by a “cold steel”-bound inner chamber. “Milos Volorn” [Beruk] welcomes the others and eventually explains that, like Tempestade, he isn’t originally from the “Vanished Lands.”

The Barbari human Rogue/Gatecrasher listens to Tempestade’s tale and suggests that there may be multiple ways home in addition to the obelisk in Gisar. Milos knows of Vasec, the devil at the the volcanic temple, the dreaded Ghost Fleet, and more.

He trades information for a letter of referral from Prince Corwin to set up a shop in the kingdom of Saganim. In addition, Milos says that he’ll see if there’s anyone who can guide the group to Queen Zapanga in Selifa.

Elsa agrees to help one of Milos’ contacts join Vistel’s Circus on the mainland. She also asks for a model of the Foamrunner. Milos provides coins from his homeworld so that contacts will recognize the party.

The associate of the “Liberators,” “Dragonslayers,” and “Holy Steel” gives the would-be heroes the following items:

Blindfold of Blindsight — Tempestade
Cold steel (antimagical alloy) warhammer — Hamfast
Dust of Dryness, in a glass sphere — held by Elsa
Hat of Disguise — carried by Corwin for the party
Quiver of Elhonna — Scully
Sword Brooch — Sir Torrel

Corwin and Elsa thank Milos for his generosity, and the party prepares to leave for its infiltration of Salhonif Island in the Zarendo Archipelago….

I hope that everybody enjoyed our three “Vistel’s Circus” sessions on consecutive Mondays! While Jason E.R.’s “Glassworks: the Devil’s Den” superhero scenario (using Icons) will begin in the next two weeks, I look forward to resuming our adventures on Feb. 3, weather permitting.

In the meantime, thanks again to Brian and Rich for hosting, and remember to use the Yahoo/eGroups message board between games. Some of you get to continue in the “Vanished Lands” with the “New Dawn” telecom team on Sundays.