Category: Vanished Lands

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Update 39.24 — Turning tides

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Session 39.24, which Brian W. hosted in Newton, Mass., on Monday, 21 October 2013:

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 theBasic Fantasy Role-Playing Game, as of autumn 2013:

  • “Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane” [Beruk A.]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) and stage seer, embittered by experiences in Hesolin’s Magisterium; NGc, Lvl. 5
  • “Hamfast Hammerfist” [Brian W.]-male Zeda human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 5
  • “Scully Strongbow” [Sara F.]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 5
  • “Corwin Windsong” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and former ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 5
  • “Elsa Fairbottom” [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with owlbear cub “Oswald”; NGc, Lvl. 5
  • “Tempestade” [Josh C.]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), former roustabout, now a follower of Otih; CGl, Lvl. 5
  • “Sir Torrel” [Alex W.]-male Hifalendorin human Paladin of Otih, the lord of the sun and justic; LGn, Lvl. 5
  • “Radius” [Jason E.R./departed]-male Modron Paladin of Primus, lord of Nirvana; exiled to the Prime Material plane; LGn, Lvl. 5

“20 to 24 December 1228 B.C.E.:” The adventuring party had helped the Saganim (proto-Celtic) human port of Sileran strengthen its defenses in response to unnatural weather. Scouting expeditions to nearby swamps and the Bay of Ethalgo revealed more cult activity, amphibious humanoids, and potential for attack at the winter solstice.

In the wet weeks leading up to the holiday, the onetime circus performers had also conducted research at various temples and participated in bouts at the “Silver Stirrup” pub.

At the local Magisterium (magic school/library), Giacomo du Vane continues his inquiries into the so-called Mad Mage, who is connected to his tattoos, according to Megara Anteia, a dark priestess of Gheket. He reviews his credit with colleague Muriel Tekla at Tobin’s Emporium.

Giacomo also mentions to his friends “cold steel,” a reddish antimagical alloy, as a potential defense against the dreaded ghost fleet. In addition, the Wizard plans to ask about getting passage to Falit, capital of the Ebir Sheikdom, on the Sea Elven schooner Foamrunner [see “Dragonslayers” notes].

Hamfast Hammerfist evaluates and enlists mercenaries at the Silver Stirrup to help with Sileran’s defense. Scully Strongbow asks Caranthir, a Sylvan Elf Druid at the Grove of Arbos, about the giant footprint she found in the swamps.

Corwin Windsong, Elsa Fairbottom, and Sir Torrel help train Sileran’s militia at the Caerling Circus. Corwin spends his spare time with Nydarelle, a Sylvan Elf whom he met at the Bardic College/temple of Brijitt.

Elsa also helps River Dwarf Burdag with siege engines and obtains holy water from priest Henry Ironfist at Nersago’s Forge [temple of Vulkan/Moradin]. Tempestade makes sacrifices at various temples and still hopes to rescue people from his distant homeland.

Sir Torrel reports to Father Bran at the tower of Otih. The Paladin then goes to the agora (market square) to ask Tch’tt (“Tochit”), a Pernicon (Thri-kreen), to watch out for cultists of Krakas, lord of the maelstrom.

The wanderers have reconvened for dinner at the Moonbeam Inn when they hear shouting out in the sodden streets. They run to the harbormaster’s tower on the Watcher’s Tor, where they see a blue-skinned giant scaling the city walls!

Corwin casts Mirror Image and draws his enchanted long sword, while Elsa enflames Sir Torrel’s sword and Hamfast’s maul. Scully climbs the tower to get a better vantage point and sends owl “Owlicious” to see what else is going on.

Giacomo maims himself in an effort to cast Scorching Ray, and Hamfast ponders whether the attack is a diversion. The huge monster sweeps Saganim sentries and catapults over the parapets with blasts of water from the Bay of Ethalgo.

Paladin Torrel steps forward and draws first blood in the battle. Monk Tempestade kicks at the giant but is thwarted by the icy steps. Bard Corwin hits the creature, as Druid Elsa’s Light and Bane spells fails to harm it.

Ranger Scully fires silver-tipped arrows and quickly searches for holy water or oil. Mage Giacomo casts Force Manipulation but has better luck with Magic Missiles. Fighter Hamfast first swings at the giant’s knees and feet before hitting higher up.

The azure aggressor, whom Giacomo identifies as a Marid or type of Djinn, slams Hamfast and Torrel. Bashir also grows from 10 to 15 feet in height. Sir Torrel casts Protection From Evil, and Tempestade tries to climb onto the giant, who repeatedly swats him away.

Corwin keeps swinging at the Marid, while Elsa invokes Moradin to Bless her allies. Scully smacks herself with her bow before properly landing arrows. Giacomo casts more Magic Missiles, and Hamfast turns their opponent into a puddle.

There’s no time to rest as Tempestade leads the rush to the next sounds of battle. The squad finds the Crab Shanty crushed by a female Sea Giant. Swashbuckler Corwin has difficulty hitting Fothri, and pious Elsa’s Hold Person is unsuccessful.

Sniper Scully runs to the Eorl’s Tor, and Giacomo switches from Web back to Magic Missiles. Hamfast grabs a few items from fallen Bashir and swings mightily.

The Sea Giant hurls a rock at Elsa but misses. Torrel swears in frustration, possibly offending Otih, as his magical tulwar fails to find its mark. Swift Tempestade runs toward Fothri, as Saganim humans hurl spears.

Corwin and Hamfast hit their foe. Elsa fumbles an attack before going to heal Tempestade and Hamfast. Giacomo’s Color Spray has no effect, and the giantess swings a Riptide Whip at Corwin.

Tempestade grabs at the whip but is smashed into the ground. Torrel prays to Otih and casts Light. Elsa trades blows, while Scully almost loses her bow because of frostbitten fingers. Tempestade cuts himself free and reaches for his sling.

Giacomo maximizes a Magic Missile, and Dwarf Elsa claims victory as Corwin beheads the Sea Giant. Exhausted but exhilarated, the adventurers run farther down the waterfront, past the agora. Owlicious tells Scully that more giants are fighting spellcasters in the southeastern part of Sileran.

They see another Sea Giant and an even taller Storm Giant in the rubble of the Magisterium. Tempestade joins members of the town guard in fighting the Sea Giant as his companions go after the Storm Giant, who is approaching the Halls of Haranur.

Fantasy giants
Giants attack!

Giacomo casts Invisibility and tries to see if any of the items from the Marid or first Sea Giant might be useful. Corwin casts Mirror Image to create illusory copies of himself to distract the Storm Giant. Gaprekisu has killed several sorcerers and soldiers with electrified javelins.

Elsa Heals Self and grabs Fothri’s whip. She also casts Guidance on Sir Torrel, whose Detect Evil finds that the giants are more chaotic. Scully finds a repeating hand crossbow in the ruins of Tobin’s Emporium.

Corwin and Hamfast strike at Gaprekisu, whose tough hide turns half of their blows. Elsa digs through the debris and finds a Wand of Frost. Scully’s crossbow bolts fire wide, and Tempestade tries to climb Cormu, the second Sea Giant.

Sir Torrel casts Spiritual Hammer, and Giacomo cuts himself to cast Force Manipulation to provide shields. The Storm Giant dispels one of Corwin’s images and stabs Giacomo with a javelin.

Cormu drops a rock on Tempestade, knocking him unconscious. Saganim sentries scatter, and the surviving adepts rush to contain the damage. Megara is wounded in front of her temple. Corwin manages to cast Web against Gaprekisu but stuns himself.

Elsa casts Cure Minor Wounds to stabilize Tempestade and reads a scroll of Protection From Electricity. Fighter Hamfast and Sir Torrel circle the Storm Giant, landing a few solid blows but taking wounds in the process.

Unlucky Giacomo harms his own visage, burns a hole beneath himself to catacombs, and makes his hands translucent. The Wizard recovers by casting Levitation and maximizing more Magic Missiles. Gaprekisu eventually gets unstuck from Corwin’s Web and destroys the rest of his Mirror Images.

Cormu kills another guard and another spellcaster. Tempestade manages to get out from under the rock and limps toward the temple of Otih. On the way, he finds a shortbow, so he heads to the Eorl’s Torr to join Scully on higher ground.

After casting Cure Light Wounds on Torrel and pulling Corwin to safety, Elsa fires the Wand of Frost at the Storm Giant, to little effect. Hamfast has better luck with his hammer. Giacomo quaffs a healing potion before a miscastMagic Missile forces him to shout out his true name.

The Storm Giant hits Sir Torrel and shrugs off arrows from Scully, Tempestade, and Sileran’s archers. Giacomo’s last maximized Magic Missile manages to slay Gaprekisu, but Cormu runs over Corwin on his way back to the bay. The sole surviving giant jumps into the water and swims away.

Scully sees only one sail on the horizon, so Brig. Liam Muldoon concludes that the giant attack isn’t an immediate precursor to an attack by Undead pirates. The clouds above Sileran begin to disperse for the first time in weeks.

The Saganim people bury their dead and begin repairs to the harbor. Cormac ap Morgan, the local earl, thanks Prince Corwin for limiting the potential casualties.

Giacomo asks Bethany Drumgoule if the Magisterium needs investors to rebuild. He also gets a Ring of Water Breathing from Scully, who claims Goggles of Underwater Vision, a Ring of Water Adaptation, and a Torc of Shark Repellent from the fallen giants.

Hamfast takes Gaprekisu’s masterwork great sword, and Tempestade grabs his +1 electrified javelins. Corwin finds shark hide armor (+1) among Bashir’s possessions, and Elsa has Fothri’s platinum amulet of Krakas melted down.

Elsa and Sir Torrel also make sure that some of the 4,000 crowns (gold pieces) in recovered pearls goes to help the city. Each of the defenders gets about 600 g.p., and Giacomo asks the knights of Otih for Restoration spells to recover from his magical mishaps in battle.

After helping to slay three out of four giants attacking Sileran, the onetime circus performers rest, re-equip, and prepare to set sail for Falit….

I hope that everyone enjoyed our back-to-back sessions and big battle! Your characters probably won’t level up until they reach Falit, but gear and magic will be available. I look forward to seeing some of you at Josh & Sara’s Halloween potluck this coming Saturday!

In the meantime, I also look forward to concluding Geoff C.’s “Strange Tales From Chicago” scenario and starting up the “Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” telecom team. Remember that Jason E.R.’s “Star Wars: Dark Times” game will meet at Rich’s place next Monday, Oct. 28.

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Update 39.23 — Swamp Scrags

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Session 39.23, which Brian W. hosted in Newton, Mass., on Monday, 14 October 2013:

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 autumn 2013:

  • “Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane” [Beruk A.]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) and stage seer, embittered by experiences in Hesolin’s Magisterium; NGc, Lvl. 5
  • “Hamfast Hammerfist” [Brian W.]-male Zeda human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 5
  • “Scully Strongbow” [Sara F.]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 5
  • “Corwin Windsong” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and former ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 5
  • “Elsa Fairbottom” [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with owlbear cub “Oswald”; NGc, Lvl. 5
  • “Tempestade” [Josh C.]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), former roustabout, now a follower of Otih; CGl, Lvl. 5
  • “Sir Torrel” [Alex W.]-male Hifalendorin human Paladin of Otih, the lord of the sun and justic; LGn, Lvl. 5
  • “Radius” [Jason E.R./departed]-male Modron Paladin of Primus, lord of Nirvana; exiled to the Prime Material plane; LGn, Lvl. 5

“26 November to 19 December 1228 B.C.E.:” The wanderers had learned about other ports of call, Undead pirates, and unusual weather in the Saganim (proto-Celtic) human city of Sileran. They joined the residents in preparing for a potential attack.

Giacomo du Vane returns to the local Magisterium (magic school/library) and Tobin’s Emporium, where the Wizard finalizes the sale of a Necromancer’s cart to alchemist Muriel Tekla.

Map of Sileran
Map of Saganim port on the Bay of Ethalgo

Bar brawlers
Hamfast Hammerfist goes to the Caerling Circus, which he is disappointed to discover is an arena devoted to chariot races and wrestling rather than gladiatorial matches. Maude, a bookie, refers the Fighter to the Silver Stirrup pub.

Scully Strongbow takes her owl Owlicious and growing owlbear cub Oswald to the Grove of Arbos for exercise. The Ranger also visits the field of Grulla, the huntsman, for archery practice. Tempestade is not impressed by most of the games at the Caerling Circus, despite the presence of fellow Monk Ling-Wa.

Corwin Windsong and Elsa Fairbottom ask aged scholar Witheril at the Bardic College for more information about Undead controlling the port of Gisar. The Bard and Druid also ask about who could conduct a ritual altering the weather, since Sileran has suffered from weeks of clouds and rain.

Sir Torrel gets an enchanted Gem of Translation from Tch’tt (“Tochit”), a Pernicon (Thri-kreen) who is grateful for news of slaves liberated from Hobgoblin legionnaires. The Paladin later joins Hamfast and others at the arena and Silver Stirrup.

Giacomo slips away to the temple of Gheket, goddess of witchcraft and the night. He asks Megara Anteia for help with his tattoo. The priestess observes that it appears to be the visage of the “Mad Mage,” a Hifalendorin arcanist of a generation earlier who was magically imprisoned for betraying a patron.

Sultry Megara says that she can remove Giacomo’s magical ink, in return for his goodwill to the worshippers of Gheket. The Hifalendorin (proto-Western European) human asks for time to consider her offer.

Corwin, a.k.a. Prince Berek, turns down an offer from kinsman and earl Cormac ap Morgan to stay at the Halls of Haranur so that he can be at the Moonbeam Inn, closer to his friends and singer Phelir.

Corwin also asks Nydarelle, a Sylvan Elf Bard he met at the temple of Brijitt, goddess of fire and poetry, to accompany him to the Silver Stirrup. Elsa invites Burdag, a River Dwarf working to improve Sileran’s defenses, to join her for drinks.

At the bar, Corwin pays the 4 crown (gold piece) entrance fee so that Hamfast can participate in underground boxing bouts. Seamus Earbiter [Patrik D’H./Byron V.O./Beruk/Non-Player Character] defeats Half-Orc Fang [Matt F./Josh/N.P.C.] with an eye gouge. Tempestade watches with bemusement.

Mighty Hamfast quickly bests Seamus, winning wagers for Giacomo, Corwin, and Elsa. Proprietor Wilbur Camden tries to arrange for another challenger when tough-talking Paddy [Beruk/N.P.C.] strikes Scully, knocking the Gnoll unconscious. Torrel races to Scully’s side and Lays on Hands.

Hamfast dives into the crowd and beats Paddy down. Hamfast buys a round of drinks and becomes fast friends with burly Seamus. Elsa offers to watch his gold rather than let it all be spent on alcohol, but the Zeda human turns down the Dwarf.

Swamp rats
Elsa recommends checking the swamps northwest of Sileran for renegade Druids or cultists of Krakas, lord of the maelstrom. Corwin requisitions a river boat with some of the local militia. The skies clear as they head into dense reeds outside the city.

Scully sniffs and detects a scent similar to the Sea Hags encountered in the sewers of Thadenis. The onetime carnival performers disembark, leaving the guardsmen with the boat. Scully, Sir Torrel, Corwin, and Hamfast take the lead, with Giacomo, Tempestade, and Elsa following.

The group follows a narrow path leading into the marshes and realizes that it is in the shape of a spiral, Krakas’ holy symbol! The winding way leads to a clearing and a large iron cauldron. Giacomo casts Levitation, Elsa invokes Gaia (Mekkil) to Bless , and Torrel Detects Evil.

Symbol of Krakas, lord of the maelstrom
Winding path

After a few shoves, Hamfast and company overturn the cauldron, spilling a Sahuagin (shark man) stew. Their horror is only compounded when Scully and Elsa find giant-sized footprints. The away team races back to the boat but finds it capsized and its crew drowned.

Scully and Sir Torrel dig into the sand to disrupt the spiral pattern, as Elsa tries to cast Mend on the boat. Soon the sounds of cackling interrupt them as four Scrags (amphibious Trolls) enter the clearing.

Hamfast steps forward with his maul, exchanging blows with the lank-haired Scrags. Elsa casts Entangle , slowing two monsters and Hamfast, and nimble Tempestade kicks at the regenerating Trollkin. Corwin hits with his enchanted sword, but Scully’s initial arrows, dipped in holy water, miss.

Giacomo casts Magic Missiles , and Sir Torrel wields a flaming tulwar, thanks to Elsa. Hamfast frees himself from the weeds, as the Scrags rake at him and Torrel with filthy claws. Tempestade spins but misses, while Elsa casts Bane.

After a few more misses, Scully and Corwin connect with their foes. Hamfast and Tempestade defeat one Scrag, and Torrel, doing better than he did unarmed at the circus, smites another. Elsa casts Light and drags Hamfast away for healing, and Giacomo’s ball of Force Manipulation helps slay the third Troll.

The group quickly incinerates the Scrags, and Giacomo casts Levitation to cross the Warenthol River before dusk. Hamfast, Scully, and Sir Torrel fall into the cold waters, forcing the others to fish them out. That night, the travelers warm up back at the Moonbeam Inn and debate their next moves.

Bay expedition
During the next few weeks, Giacomo asks Bethany Drumgoule at the Magisterium if she has heard of the Mad Mage. The Saganim sorceress recognizes the tale but says that others in Hesolin or Falit would likely know more.

Hamfast returns to the Silver Stirrup to see if any of the patrons have the experience and willingness to fight in Sileran’s defense. Scully hunts for more Trolls outside the city’s walls but finds no signs of a larger ritual.

Tempestade asks Megara Anteia about her distant homeland in the hope of recognizing directions to his own. The Achaean (Mycenaean Greek) witch describes many islands ruled by warlords, reachable only by months at sea or hiking over many mountains. Unfortunately for Tempestade, this doesn’t resemble the jungles and plantations of Brazil, which he still hopes to reach via a mysterious obelisk in Gisar.

Corwin and Elsa work with the militia in case the dreaded ghost fleet attacks during the winter solstice. In addition, Corwin courts Nydarelle, and Elsa consults Sylvan Elf Caranthir at the Grove of Arbos on how to find or recognize evil Druids. She also sends maps and reports to “Ulrich” [Ted A.H./N.P.C.] at the Royal Society for Cartography back in Thadenis.

Sir Torrel asks Father Bran at the tower of Otih, god of the sun and justice, how a temple of Gheket can be tolerated in the city. The Saganim priest explains that death is part of life but notes that the followers of that goddess should be watched.

The adventurers reassemble at the docks to board the Brave Duchess , a Saganim warship. Brig. Muldoon and Capt. Perry order the cog to set forth to search for more sites where Scrags or Druids could be controlling the weather over Sileran.

Giacomo borrows a spyglass, as Hamfast and Sir Torrel hug the rail. Scully has her sea legs, thanks to training with “Sir Niac” [Mike F./N.P.C.]. Tropical Tempestade huddles below decks for warmth.

Corwin chats with the officers. Capt. Perry says that Capt. Scarlet, the Sea Elf commander of the sleek Foamrunner , might be able to help him get to Falit [see notes for the “Dragonslayers”].

Elsa casts Talk With Animals to ask questions of a seagull and a swordfish. The creatures describe Suthern human corsairs, Goblinoid pirates, and occasional Undead, but what catches Elsa’s attention is a mention of Tritons.

The large sea folk could be responsible for the giant footprints near the Sahuagin stew and spiral of Krakas in the swamps. Since Tritons are typically found out in the Sea of Nagendwa rather than in the shallower Bay of Ethalgo, the explorers theorize that whatever is coming to attack Sileran has driven them into the bay….

I hope that everyone enjoyed our latest face-to-face game, and thanks again for the birthday cake! Remember that we’ll be continuing with “Vistel’s Circus” next Monday, Oct. 21, and Jason E.R.’s “Star Wars: Dark Times” will resume on Oct. 28 at Rich’s place in Waltham, Mass.

In addition, I look forward to Geoff C.’s superhero one-shot this coming Sunday, with the “New Dawn” Asian-style fantasy telecom game to begin on Oct. 27.

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Update 39.22 — November rain and necromancy

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Session 39.22, which Brian W. hosted in Newton, Mass., on Monday, 30 September 2013:

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 autumn 2013:

  • “Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane” [Beruk A.]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) and stage seer, embittered by experiences in Hesolin’s Magisterium; NGc, Lvl. 5
  • “Hamfast Hammerfist” [Brian W.]-male Zeda human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 5
  • “Scully Strongbow” [Sara F.]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 5
  • “Corwin Windsong” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and former ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 5
  • “Elsa Fairbottom” [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with owlbear cub “Oswald”; NGc, Lvl. 5
  • “Tempestade” [Josh C.]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), former roustabout, now a follower of Otih; CGl, Lvl. 5
  • “Sir Torrel” [Alex W.]-male Hifalendorin human Paladin of Otih, the lord of the sun and justic; LGn, Lvl. 5
  • “Radius” [Jason E.R./departed]-male Modron Paladin of Primus, lord of Nirvana; exiled to the Prime Material plane; LGn, Lvl. 5

“21 to 25 November 1228 B.C.E.:” After meeting Sir Torrel, the former circus performers left Thadenis and traveled down the Warenthol River on their way to the distant ports of Falit and Gisar. They freed a group of Pernicon (Thri-kreen) from Dubwana (Hobgoblin) slavers.

The adventuring party arrives at the Saganim (proto-Celtic) human city of Sileran. Scully Strongbow asks her boyfriend “Sir Niac” [Mike F./Non-Player Character] to show her around and stay for one night. They are happy to get out of the rain at the midrange Moonbeam Inn, where each traveler pays proprietor Graham Edowald 5 silver pieces per cozy room per night.

Skyrim wallpaper
Sileran in late autumn

After inquiring about the “Cone of Caloric Intake,” Hamfast Hammerfist retires for the evening. He surprises his companions by abstaining from alcohol before a planned visit to the temple of Nersago (a.k.a. Tvorst/Vulkan/Moradin).

Phelir, a Hifalendorin (proto-Western European) human singer, entertains patrons in the inn’s common room. Time-displaced Tempestade is amazed when she plays a Barbari (Brazilian) song at his request!

Giacomo du Vane asks Phelir for “In Praise of Starlight,” a Quelanthi (High Elven) tune. Corwin Windsong also chats up the raven-tressed Bard and is impressed to learn that she also speaks Zuromm (Undercommon).

Rather than listen to Scully and Niac next door, Elsa Fairbottom buys some plum wine and heads to the Grove of Arbos. On the way, she sees a River Dwarf working on Sileran’s fortifications. Burdag enlists Elsa’s aid in setting up siege engines.

Sir Torrel goes to the temple of Otih, lord of the sun and justice, where he reports on the Pernicon slaves and Dubwana threat to Fr. Bran. The Paladin then returns to the inn to get to sleep early.

After Phelir sings “Mancatcher,” Tempestade asks her how she knew music from his homeland, and the skald replies that she looked into his heart. This doesn’t satisfy the Monk. By contrast, Zuromm lyrics make Giacomo’s skin crawl.

The next morning, Giacomo and Tempestade go to the local Magisterium (magic school/library). They meet Saganim archivist Bethany Drumgoule, who helps them with research into Falit, capital of the Ebir Sheikdom and their next destination. When the Mage’s divination into Tempestade’s origin fails, Bethany notes that Djinn in Falit could help them.

Gnoll Scully bids Niac a tearful farewell as the Wolfen heads back north to his duties in Thadenis, capital of the kingdom of Saganim. The Ranger and Paladin hope to travel together again soon.

Corwin and Elsa go to the Bardic College to inquire about Gisar. The Bard flirts with Fellona, Garweth, and Nydarelle, three worshippers of Brijitt, goddess of fire and poetry, while the Druid talks with an old sage. Witheril invokes Brijitt before explaining how that city has been plagued by Undead rulers, from vampires and a dracolich to the dreaded ghost fleet.

Hamfast and Elsa visit local breweries near Watcher’s Torr. The Zeda human Fighter buys a tankard, which he brings to Nersago’s forge. Hamfast is welcomed with open arms, and Dwarf Elsa later attends a midday service.

Torrel goes to the agora (market square), where he finds a Pernicon to talk to. Tch’tt (“Tochit”) uses a Gem of Translation to listen to the knight of Otih’s tale of slavers from the Garku Nasit. Tch’tt is surprised and tells Torrel to find him again to get an enchanted gem of his own in return for his service.

Witheril also tells Elsa about how the ghost fleet impresses sailors who are wounded in fights. Any so injured become Undead themselves in three nights, and curative spells can harm the victims, he says. Only powdered silver and holy water can delay the effect, and only Remove Curse can expunge the mystical ailment known as the Scourge.

Over at the Magisterium, Giacomo finds ancient tomes in Draconic. He then goes to Tobin’s Emporium, where “NimbleBlinkerQucikFingerBrassWorkerHodlingParty….” a Tinker Gnome is getting supplies for his shop on Lighthouse Lane.

Muriel Tekla, a Hifalendorin alchemist, recognizes Giacomo from their time together as students in the city of Hesolin. She agrees to extend credit in return for a Necromancer’s cart that the Wizard left in Thadenis, after verifying its provenance with a scry spell.

At the Garden of Nidonn, goddess of fertility, Tempestade asks a Sylvan Elf Druid for help returning to his former plantation. Shandra hands the Monk an apple. Tempestade bites into the fruit, which grants him a vision of his people, still enslaved and watched by an overseer in a conveyance with four metal legs.

The group reconvenes at the Moonbeam Inn for a late lunch. While Tempestade is eager to return to his home time to rescue fellow slaves, the team agrees to stay in Thadenis until the winter solstice to help repel a potential attack by the ghost fleet.

Giacomo suggests traveling over land, and Hamfast is interested in finding “glogg,” or mulled wine. Scully and Torrel are interested in fighting evil. Corwin wants to check with local authorities at the Eorl’s Torr, and Elsa plans to return to various temples.

The group goes to the temple of Gheket, mistress of magic. After his dealings with Lady Dolista, a Drow ambassador in Thadenis, Corwin stays outside. Hamfast and Scully wait in a vestibule, while charming Megara Anteia welcomes the others into her gargoyle-encrusted tower.

Sir Torrel is alarmed when he sees a visage of evil as he looks at the Achaean (Mycenaean Greek) priestess. The rest of the wanderers manage to convince curvaceous Megara to aid in the defense of the city against the forces of chaos as represented by the ghost fleet and the cult of Krakas.

Giacomo and Tempestade return to the Magisterium to continue their research on the Scourge. The “Dragonslayers” learned that “Capt. Jack Kildare” [Randy K.M./N.P.C.] was cursed about 30 years ago to sail with his Undead crew every Midsummer’s Eve. More recently, the Saganim captain apparently found a way to alter the terms of his curse and has built up a fleet on the Sea of Nagendwa.

Corwin visits Cormac ap Morgan, third earl of Saranir, at the Halls of Haranur. Prince Berek offers aid to his “uncle” and sword maiden Bronwyn, Brigadier Liam Muldoon, and Bard Uther ap Denis. Corwin and strong Hamfast then go to help Burdag with the city’s defenses.

Elsa has a scribe get notes from Witheril, then talks with a Sylvan Elf Druid at the Grove of Arbos. Caranthir observes that the heavy rains have been unnatural, with little break for sunlight. Malcolm Wickham, a hirsute herbalist, offers Tempestade three “happy” berries.

Scully brings her bird Owlicious and Elsa’s owlbear cub Oswald to the grove for exercise. Hamfast later recalls that the Ranger had smelled people in the swamps on the way to Sileran, which could have been a sign of renegade Druids affecting the weather.

The onetime members of “Vistel’s Circus” splash through sodden streets and watch the harbor as they compare notes on Hobgoblin slavers, evil cultists and Druids, Undead pirates, and ways to travel to Tempestade’s time….

Bruce and Rich, I hope I’ve covered all the current plot threads, which I’ve also posted to the Obsidian Portal wiki. Note that our next “Vanished Lands” sessions are scheduled for Oct. 14 and 21, and the “New Dawn” telecom group will also be starting soon.

In the meantime, I look forward to wrapping up the “Vortex: Terra’s Pride” telecom space opera and playing in Geoff C.‘s superhero one-shot in the next few Sundays! I’ll see most of you at Jason E.R.’s “Star Wars : Dark Times”game next Monday….

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Update 39.21 — Bash and slash

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Session 39.21, which Brian W. hosted in Newton, Mass., on Monday, 16 September 2013:

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 autumn 2013:

  • “Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane” [Beruk A.]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) and stage seer, embittered by experiences in Hesolin’s Magisterium; NGc, Lvl. 5
  • “Hamfast Hammerfist” [Brian W.]-male Zeda human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 5
  • “Scully Strongbow” [Sara F.]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 5
  • “Corwin Windsong” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and former ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 5
  • “Elsa Fairbottom” [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with owlbear cub “Oswald”; NGc, Lvl. 5
  • “Tempestade” [Josh C.]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), former roustabout, now a follower of Otih; CGl, Lvl. 5
  • “Sir Torrel” [Alex W.]-male Hifalendorin human Paladin of Otih, the lord of the sun and justic; LGn, Lvl. 5
  • “Radius” [Jason E.R./departed]-male Modron Paladin of Primus, lord of Nirvana; exiled to the Prime Material plane; LGn, Lvl. 5

“31 October to 20 November 1228 B.C.E.:” After clearing Prince Corwin’s name and defeating cultists of Krakas in Thadenis, the former circus performers prepared to leave the capital of the (proto-Celtic) human kingdom of Saganim.

At the tower of Otih, Scully Strongbow and Tempestade meet with priests of the god of the sun and justice. Father Alaistair introduces the Ranger and Monk to Sir Torrel, a relatively recent arrival from Hesolin.

The Paladin is surprised to find a Gnoll, a Barbari human, and Wolfen “Niac” [Mike F./Non-Player Character] among Otih’s followers. Still, Torrel is pleased when Father Alaistair orders him to accompany Scully and Tempestade and smite evil.

At the agora (market square), Corwin Windsong, Elsa Fairbottom, and Hamfast Hammerfist observe the Samhain festivities. Some of the revelers recognize the prince, and the Dwarf brewer and Zeda human are interested in pumpkin ales.

Time-displaced Tempestade continues his research into a way home, so he, Scully, and Sir Torrel look for Giacomo du Vane. They find the Wizard with the tinker’s cart confiscated from a serial killer and flesh crafter back in the village of Tensar.

At the Hall of Thanes, the Royal Society for Cartography, and the Harandrim Academy, Giacomo and Tempestade piece together mentions of an obelisk in the port of Gisar that once allegedly sent the “Seekers of Lore” through time.

The adventurers reunite at the Happy Brownie Inn. Giacomo recommends consulting the three towers of sorcery in Falit, capital of the Ebir Sheikdom, rather than heading directly east to Gisar. Fighter Hamfast refuses to have anything to do with temporal magic.

Ranger Scully notes that the group was originally thinking of traveling north, to infiltrate the nefarious kingdom of Zuromm. Tempestade is emphatic in his desire to free slaves from his former plantation, but he is unable to describe exactly when and where he is from, other than the distant future.

Corwin is reluctant to start an international incident between Saganim and Zuromm, and Druid Elsa is curious about exploring the larger world. Sir Torrel says he is ready to fight evil no matter where it lurks. After some debate, the onetime members of Vistel’s Circus agree to first head south, to Falit.

Back in the agora, the voyagers meet the foppishly dressed “Melchior” [Byron V.O./N.P.C.] and his youthful ward Esteban. The priest of Ulandt, lady of rest, brings them to a building that looks like nobleman’s brownstone on the outside but is actually a safe house for agents of Queen Margaret.

As a former “Seeker of Lore,” Melchior is reluctant to talk about the world of 400 years in a potential future. He acknowledges that meddling in one’s past is dangerous and notes that his party had help getting home. Tempestade does learn that the sides of the obelisk in Gisar have inscriptions in different languages that must be read aloud.

Giacomo goes to the Harandrim Academy, which was founded by a deceased “Lorewarden” [“Heron,” Brian]. The mage gets his staff enchanted and asks his girlfriend, Maggie Oakleaf, to look after his wagon.

That night, Hamfast goes carousing around the city and gives Torrel the tulwar he got from an Undead Minotaur. The next morning, a hungover Hamfast drags himself to Moradin’s Forge, where he vows to give up drink for a while and gets spare leather armor for sailing.

Scully asks boyfriend Niac if he’ll come with her, and the Wolfen shipwright agrees to come as far as Sileran on the way to Falit. The Gnoll also acquires a magical long bow and studded leather armor in addition to her Ring of Water Breathing.

Prince Corwin and Melchior help the group obtain some magic items. Tempestade tries to pray to his deities, but his companions refuse to join him. The Monk familiarizes himself with the manriki-gusari, or spiked and weighted chain, and inquires into a Ring of Jumping to with his Boots of Spider Climb.

Bard Corwin visits the Zuromm embassy, where he asks Lady Dolista if she has a badge that would help him get past humanoid troops. The alluring Drow diplomat says she has no such token, and Corwin declines her offer of a transformation ritual.

The prince later informs his family at the Gilded Keep of his plan to leave and sends a note to Orlando Vistel. Corwin also warns them to beware of Lord Stefan Sable, who may be related to the Necromancer slain in Tensar.

Elsa asks “Ulrich” [Ted A.H./N.P.C.] at the Royal Cartography Society for maps of Sileran, Falit, and Gisar. Ulrich recounts tales of Gisar, from its settlement by Skaevingol raiders to the coming of vampiric rulers, the dracolich Daneira, and the dreaded ghost fleet.

The Druid ask Brownie Pfenik at the Grove of Arbos to look after things such as Scully’s pony, but Elsa decides to keep growing Owlbear cub Oswald with her. She also acquires magical studded leather.

Sir Torrel asks Father Alaistair for guidance regarding travel to a time or place where Otih is not known. His superior tells him to bring the light of justice to the dark and gives him vials of holy water. Giacomo holds a potion of Cure Light Wounds.

The Vistel’s Circus alumni and friends take a riverboat from Thadenis down the Warenthol River. The wide Plains of Sathendo stretch from port to the horizon, and the boat passes the Blackhorse Woods to starboard. The passengers and crew spend the night at the village of Peristhon.

Giacomo studies his spellbook, and Hamfast abstains from alcohol. Scully and Niac stay with the boat rather than deal with prejudiced human peasants. Tempestade meditates.

At the “Laden Bough” pub, Corwin flirts with the barmaids, and Elsa notices a few Grugach (Wild Elven) traders from the nearby forest. Corwin buys a bottle of fey wine for Elsa. Torrel talks with some sailors, who warn of corsairs on the Bay of Ethalgo and pirates on the western Sea of Nagendwa.

The next day, the team notices some activity on the western shore as it continues south. Eighteen armored Dubwana (Hobgoblins) lead 11 strange prisoners from a beached boat. The defenders of Saganim decide to attack.

Dubwana attackers
Hobgoblins

Bard Corwin strides forth with Tempestade and Sir Torrel to talk to the red-skinned leader of the turbaned troops. Kithurk, the Hobgoblin sergeant, says in Undercommon that his unit serves the Third Legion of Sultan Chud Knightslayer, a Rakshasa in Hontisso.

Scully and Niac hang back with their vessel, while Giacomo identifies the insectoid slaves as Pernicon, or Thri-kreen. Elsa watches Hamfast, who doesn’t mince words and smashes the Hobgoblins’ craft with blows from his maul.

Druid Elsa ensnares four of the Dubwana with Entangle, and the Goblinoids respond with scimitars, spears, and arrows. Corwin casts Sleep on three more, and Paladin Torrel slashes one with his new tulwar. Monk Tempestade runs toward the archers.

Ranger Scully fires her longbow against the soldiers holding chains, and Fighter Hamfast advances to bash. Mage Giacomo casts Force Manipulation to create a shield for himself and Hamfast. Elsa incapacitates two moreHobgoblins with a Hold Person spell.

The Dubwana injure Giacomo, Scully, Hamfast, and Torrel. Corwin strikes the sergeant with his sword and goes to aid Giacomo. Tempestade rains blows and kicks on the slavers, quickly killing two more. Scully finishes off Kithurk with a well-aimed arrow.

Hamfast swings his maul, while Giacomo slays four snipers with Magic Missiles. Elsa runs over to free the prisoners and heal the Wizard. However, the power of her gods is only partly effective on Giacomo. Despite the casualties, the disciplined Hobgoblins hold their ranks together.

Giacomo unleashes a Scorching Ray, and Torrel slays the last unhindered Goblinoid. Corwin dispatches the others and begins searching their bodies. He finds 40 silver pieces, 12 electrum, 80 gold, and 240 g.p. in pearls, as well as a map of an unknown oasis and a magical Garku Nasit battle standard.

The group gives the Pernicon the electrum and silver. Elsa casts Speak With Animals but is still unable to communicate with the Thri-kreen, who seem grateful for their freedom. Hamfast gives them extra weapons and food from the boat, and they wander off into the Halmed Desert.

The carnival folk reboard their riverboat and continue on toward the port of Sileran….

Welcome again, Alex, to our group! I hope that everyone enjoyed our latest session, and I look forward to continuing our fantasy adventures on Sept. 30. Don’t forget to make sure that your P.C. records are up to date on Obsidian Portal, and remember to respond regarding “Vanished Lands” house rules for saving throws and skills.

In the meantime, I’ll see some of you at this coming Sunday’s “Vortex: Terra’s Pride” telecom space opera and the rest at Jason E.R.’s “Star Wars: Dark Times” session at Rich’s place next Monday.

What I’ll be watching, fall 2013 SFTV

To follow up on recent posts about genre entertainment, here’s my tentative viewing schedule for this coming fall. Even if half of the new television shows fail this season, there’s still more than enough to keep fans busy!

Sundays

Mondays

  • 6:00 to 10:30 p.m.: The “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus,” Gene D.’s fantasy campaign (using the Basic Fantasy Role-Playing Game), alternating with Jason E.R.’s “Star Wars: Dark Times” miniseries (using Savage Worlds)
  • 10:00 p.m., Fox: Almost Human (robot cop, new) 11/4
  • 9:00 p.m., SyFy: Defiance (postapocalyptic drama) ** June 2014
  • 9:00 p.m., Fox: Sleepy Hollow (paranormal procedural, new) 9/16 ***
  • 10:00 p.m., ABC: Castle (mystery) *** 9/23
  • 10:00 p.m., SyFy: Warehouse 13 (supernatural conspiracy) ** ending 2014
  • Other genre: Beauty and the Beast (remake)

Tuesdays

  • 7:30 p.m., Cartoon: The Looney Tunes Show (animated comedy, currently airing) ***
  • 8:00 p.m., ABC: Marvel’s Agents of SHIELD (comic book procedural, new) 9/24
  • 9:00 p.m., CW: Tomorrow People (metahuman melodrama, new) 10/9?
  • 10:00 p.m., CBS: Person of Interest (technothriller) *** 9/24
  • 10:00 p.m., History: Top Shot (marksmanship, summer) ***
  • Other genre: Fangasm, Superheroes: A Never-Ending Battle (PBS, 10/15), How Sherlock Changed the World (PBS, 11/19 or 11/26?), The Originals, Ravenswood, The Voice
Disney's live-action superhero TV show
Marvel’s (and Whedon’s) Agents of SHIELD

Wednesdays

  • ~7:00 to 9:00 p.m.: Weekly historical weapons class in Burlington, Mass.
  • 8:00 p.m., NBC: Revolution (postapocalyptic drama) ** 9/25
  • 8:00 p.m., CW: Arrow (superhero drama) *** 10/9
  • 9:00 p.m., PBS: Death in Paradise (mystery) ***
  • 9:00 p.m., CW: Tomorrow People (metahuman melodrama, new) 10/9?
  • 10:00 p.m., USA: Psych (comedic sleuths) *** 12/15
  • Other genre: American Horror Story, Archer, Bitchin’ Kitchen, Ironside, Kung-Fu Panda: Legends of Awesomeness, Man vs. Food Nation), Superheroes (PBS, 10/15), Supernatural

 Thursdays

  • 7:30 p.m., Nickelodeon: Dragons: Defenders of Berk (animated fantasy) *** 9/19
  • 9:00 p.m., USA: White Collar (sleuth/caper) *** 10/17
  • 10:00 p.m., CBS: Elementary (Holmes in NYC) *** 9/26
  • Other genre: The Big Bang Theory, Covert Affairs, Once Upon a Time in Reign, Wonderland, The Vampire Diaries

Fridays

  • 7:00 p.m., Avatar: the Legend of Korra (animated fantasy) *** 9/13
  • 9:00 p.m., SyFy: Continuum (time travel) ** 2014
  • 9:00 p.m., NBC: Grimm (supernatural procedural) *** 10/25
  • 9:00 p.m., PBS: The Hollow Crown (Shakespeare; new miniseries) 9/20
  • 10:00 p.m., Starz: Da Vinci’s Demons (historical fantasy) ** 2014
  • Other genre: Dracula, Haven, The Hunters, Merlin, The Neighbors, Lost Girl, Nikita

Saturdays

  • 10:00 a.m., Cartoon: Beware the Batman (animated heroes, currently airing) ***
  • 10:30 a.m., Nickelodeon: Teenaged Mutant Ninja Turtles (animated heroes) *** late Sept.
  • 11:00 a.m., CW: Phantom Gourmet/NECN: TV Diner (local food, currently airing) ***
  • 8:00 p.m., BBC America: Doctor Who (time travel) *** 11/23
  • 9:00 p.m., BBC America: Orphan Black (clone conspiracy) **** 4/2013
  • 10:00 p.m., BBC America: Atlantis (fantasy, new) 11/23?
  • 11:00 p.m., VH1 Classic: That Metal Show (talk) ***
  • Other genre: Copper, The Graham Norton Show, The Nerdist, Metalocalypse, Monsters vs. Aliens, Teen Titans Go!