D&D5e “Vanished Lands” Session 42.2 — Market mayhem

Fellow role-players, here is my update for Session 42.2 of our higher-level D&D5e telecom game, which was held on Sunday, 5 October 2015:

In one ancient world, there was a place where strange majicks and demihumans 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.

Sometime after a group of former circus performers wandered aboard the airshipZephyr and a team of diplomatic escorts fought chaos in Tong Sheng, another crewgathered on the Sea of Nagendwa, and past heroes reunited….

Higher-level Player Characters for Gene D.’s “Vanished Lands” teleconferencing fantasy campaign, using Dungeons & Dragons Fifth Edition, Skype, and the Rolz online dice roller, as of autumn 2015:

  • “Kunal Sampat Rajiv Ramaprased” [Beruk A.]-male Harrappan (proto-Indian) human Rogue and cook, member of the (D&D3.5) “Broken Chains”; NGc, Lvl. 10
  • “Amethyst IronSoul” [Geoff C.]-male Warforged battle master (Construct Fighter) and mercenary leader; LNg, Lvl. 10
  • “Ember Talon” [Sara F./absent]-female Crane Hengeyokai Wu (shapeshifting Druid), actually a young gold dragon banished from the Celestial Court (see D20/FATE “A New Dawn”); NGl, Lvl. 10
  • “Eoghan, son of Kyndeyrn” [Josh C./absent]-male Half-Elf (Saganim human/Fey-touched) Warlock (formerly Bard), associate of the “Broken Chains”; CGn, Lvl. 10

“3 to 4 November 1227 B.C.E.:” An assortment of experienced adventurers met in the barbaric port of Gisar, where a street brawl turned deadly and a prince got vengeance for the murder of his lover. Grateful Corwin asked his new acquaintances to help him in the city.

The next morning, Kunal prepares breakfast for his new acquaintances at the temple of Brijitt, goddess of fire and poetry, which Corwin believes to be one of the few safe locations in Gisar. Priestess Gerta the Naughty offers supplies.

The Bard disguises himself to continue his search for ally Melchior. The Saganim(proto-Celtic) human Cleric of Ulandt, the lady of rest, had been covertly monitoring the late Tiefling mage Lord Dalek and Corwin’s half-brother, Prince Daven.

Corwin replaces Bellanora’s singed cloak, but Amethyst declines a poncho for concealment.

The heroes walk north on Indra Avenue, past the temples in Council Square. At the busy Spice Square, they begin asking around for Atlantean arms dealer “Vasdin Khafre” or elderly Saganim potion seller “Shamus,” two of Melchior’s aliases.

Medieval market square
Spice Square in Gisar

Corwin, who is wearing a mandolin he received from Melchior to help with recognition, learns that the red-robed Dragonborn was asking around for “Shamus.” Kunal spots Melchior at the northwestern corner of the market. He is being followed by the Dragonborn, a sickly human, and a Nekojin (cat woman).

Suthern (proto-Arabic) human Kunal and Warforged Amethyst begin to approach the potion vendor’s cart as overbearing customers. Mountain Dwarf Bellanora, still wary after being caught in Corwin’s Flame Strike, keeps her distance to observe.

Half-Elf Corwin casts Message to warn Melchior that his “princely friend is here with friends, but three people are approaching.” In response, the Defender of the Night vanishes and invisibly climbs a building.

The three humanoids fan out, and the Dragonborn pulls out a monocle to scan the crowd. Kunal circles to the square’s northern entrance to watch the pale man, who is sniffing in an apparent attempt to track Melchior.

Amethyst turns south toward the Nekojin and studies her movements. The feline assassin is graceful but relatively young. Bellanora approaches the Dragonborn from the east and engages him in conversation.

Gorkath says that he is looking for “friend” Shamus. The glaive-bearing reptilian spellcaster uses his magical monocle to spot Melchior on a nearby rooftop.

Disguised Corwin walks to the fountain at the center of Spice Square and tries to keep out of the Dragonborn’s line of sight. Rogue Kunal uses exotic spices to distract the pale man and then ducks into the crowd.

Paladin Bellanora tries to Detect Evil. Bard Corwin casts Fear on Gorkath, forcing him to flee east on Agni Path. Cleric Melchior uses Shadow Step to get close to his countryman. Fighter Amethyst nears the Nekojin.

Kunal follows the Dragonborn and steals his monocle, as the Nekojin unknowingly passes Corwin. The wan man then heads toward Bellanora, who senses malicious intent.

Corwin provides Bardic Inspiration to Bellanora, and Melchior casts Protection From Evil on himself. Amethyst turns to the Nekojin. Kunal lets Gorkath go and returns to Corwin in the market.

The Saganim prince casts Hold Person on the Nekojin, as Melchior casts Detect Undead and identifies the pale man near Bellanora as infected. The holy warrior of Vulkan tells the man to halt, but he says that his “masters now know you’re here.”

Bellanora hurls Kestaz Heus, her holy war hammer, through the man, who explodes in a fountain of black pus. Corwin ties up the Nekojin, while Amethyst keeps watch for the Draconian.

Melchior casts the Blessing of Stealth and takes the new group to a secondary safe house. The Grimm, or hunter of Undead, shares spare clothing and ammunition with the wanderers.

Kunal and Corwin disarm the Nekojin and find ninja-tos (short swords), a light crossbow, and six shurikens (throwing stars). They put the feline woman into a makeshift cell. Bellanora and Amethyst stand guard.

Melchior casts Guardian Spirit and invokes Ulandt for wards of Non-Detection.Corwin interrogates the prisoner, who is named Riki.

Riki says that the lords of the city have learned of Lord Dalek’s death in a street brawl and have been searching for Melchior, whom they suspect is a spy. The Nekojin says that she serves one Kallina.

In return for her freedom, Riki offers to gather information on the treacherous Prince Daven and his ally Sean Sable, whose family is suspected of necromancy. Bellanora grants Riki mercy but reminds Corwin and company not to trust her.

Melchior agrees that the Nekojin could prove useful and gives her a sleeping draught. He removes her from the safe house, and the team ponders its next moves in Gisar….

I look forward to seeing what our latest adventuring party does! We’ll see whether it crosses paths with the “Storm Chasers,” who are also headed toward Gisar. Remember to review your characters on Obsidian Portal.

I’ll also see some of you at Jason E.R.’s “Star Wars: Dark Times” on Monday, Oct. 12.

D&D5e “Vanished Lands: Storm Riders” Session 41.11 — Capital plans

Fellow role-players, here is my update for Session 41.11 of our face-to-face D&D5e nautical game, which Drew & Divya S. hosted in Needham, Mass., on 28 September 2015:

In one ancient world, there was a place where strange majicks and demihumans 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.

Sometime after a group of former circus performers wandered aboard the airshipZephyr and a team of diplomatic escorts fought chaos in Tong Sheng, past heroes reunited, and another band gathered on the Sea of Nagendwa….

The “Storm Riders,” Party 41 in Gene D.’s “Vanished Lands” fantasy campaign, using Dungeons & Dragons Fifth Edition, as of autumn 2015:

  • “Kamar Alazar” [Beruk A.]-male Suthern human swashbuckler (proto-Arabic Bard) of the College of Valor, former member of the “Liberators” and “Dragonslayers”; CGn, Lvl. 3
  • “Nuriel Earendil” [Brian W.]-male Grey Elf acolyte of light (Cleric of Corellan Larethian); NGl, Lvl. 3
  • “Kaelen Northsea” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf hunter and horde breaker (Sylvan/Saganim Ranger), seeking his father; NGc, Lvl. 3
  • “Eldamir Tempestborn” [Rich C.G.]-male Atlantean human soldier (Theran/Minoan Barbarian), tattooed berserker of the Order of the Kingfisher, specialist in the net and trident; CGn, Lvl. 3
  • “Barret” [Drew S.]-male Minotaur wrestler and gladiator (Fighter) with a wanderlust; a would-be Eldritch Knight; LGn, Lvl. 3
  • “Puliarus Aearion” [Charles S.]-male Half-Elf sage (Thalassaquendi storm Sorcerer), seeking to befriend all; CNg, Lvl. 3
  • “Cassy Keelnipper” [Sara F./absent]-female Otter-kin Rogue, street urchin, and sailor; NGc, Lvl. 2

Backup characters:

  • “Ludovico ‘Ludo’ Rosso” [Beruk A.]-male human ex-gladiator (Monk; see Bruce K.’s Pathfinder: Eberron/Reign of Winter); LN, Lvl. 1
  • “?” [Brian W.]-male Hifalendorin (proto-Western European) human Fighter, pragmatist; LN, Lvl. 1
  • “?” [Sara F.]-female ?; NG, Lvl. 1
  • “Drogan” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Orc (Saganim) Barbarian, with a great sword; CN, Lvl. 1
  • “Sebastian Leafsworn” [Rich C.G.]-male Sylvan Elf Monk and sage, with forbidden lore; LG, Lvl. 1
  • “Vasco” [Drew S.]-male clockwork butler (Warforged), former member of theZephyr ’s crew, displaced in time and space; LN, Lvl. 1
  • “Antoun Miner” [Charles S.]-male Hill Dwarf Druid, healer curious about the sea; TN, Lvl. 1

“26 to 28 October 1227 B.C.E.:” The adventurers left Drunstimlos aboard the mercenary ship Floating Eel, talked with Nuriel’s grandmother Itharides, and helped put down a mutiny. They stopped in the villages of Sanry and Semorn before arriving at Hesolin, capital of the human kingdom of Hifalendor.

The group goes to the Harbormaster’s Tower, where it reports to Lord Gideon Adams. Kamar shows a letter from Capt. Sheridan Driscoll of the H.M.S.Dauntless, a Saganim naval vessel. Lord Adams is suspicious of Barret, who is from the Silent Stalkers tribe, but Kaelen vouches for the Minotaur.

Eldamir hopes to find other Atlanteans, and the harbormaster says that several are stationed at a Hifalendorin (proto-Western European) naval base a few days’ sail away.

Puliarus asks about potential missions, and Lord Adams is willing to pay a total of 10,000 crowns (gold pieces) for scouting the port of Lirgad, far to the east in the Principality of Silado, a.k.a. Tong Sheng.

The “Storm Riders” say they’ll consider his offer, and Nuriel leads the way to the open-air temple of Addoh, known in Saganim as Ghanki. Halateriel, a Thalassaquendi (western Sea Elf) priestess of the sea lord, greets the travelers.

Nuriel asks Halateriel to replace drunkard Fr. Gwydion in Drunstimlos, but she notes that it’s unusual for a Hifalendorin temple to send clergy to Saganim (proto-Celtic human) towns. Halateriel also says that many priests have been assigned to ships in the Hifalendorin navy as a precaution against the mystical ailment known as the Scourge.

However, she is willing to send an acolyte to Drunstimlos if the adventuring party will check the port of Laguro on Bokor Island for cultists of Krakas, lord of the maelstrom. Cleric Nuriel and company are interested, but they don’t have a time frame in mind to travel south.

The “Storm Riders” then follow Sailors’ Walk into Hesolin. Rogue Kamar explains that Bokor Island is ruled by two black dragons, Artaxis and Zineida. Ranger Kaelen notices the “Saffron Scabbard” tavern and the Sallus Baths on the way, but Barbarian Eldamir recommends visiting the Library of Memir next.

Gladiator Barret feels the tug of cheers from the Ariyas Arena, and Sorcerer Puliarus wonders about the theaters around Bridge Plaza. The wanderers pass the Golden Horn Hotel on Castle Court and walk up Embassy Row.

Nuriel drops off a letter at the Waletku embassy to his family in the distant Grey Elven outpost of Silgath. He reports on his hopes of redeeming aggressive humans such as Eldamir.

International affairs
At the royal library, Eldamir encounters an irascible archivist. Harold eventually helps the mercenaries find records for their various inquiries. Eldamir reads a tablet containing an old trade treaty between Atlantis and Hifalendor.

Puliarus learns that trade with the Sea Elves has declined in recent years because of corsairs from the Garku Nasit, pirates from Saganim and the Zarendo Islands, and Skaevingol raiders, not to mention the dreaded Ghost Fleet.

Harold also mentions that the Gusorin Confederation is no more. The Gokuri Empire has conquered the northern city of Tekugi, and the southern port of Gisar is ruled by the Undead. Hifalendor still views the human and humanoid tribes of the central Plains of Sathendo as a threat.

Bored Barret and Eldamir go back through bustling streets to the arena, while musician Kamar visits the Bardic College. Pious Nuriel strolls to the Temple Court, as lecherous Kaelen goes to the Saffron Scabbard. Curious Puliarus heads to the Istari Bazaar.

Hesolin streets
Busy city streets

At the Arena of Ariyas, Barret and Eldamir ask Halfling bookie Waltod [Beruk A./Non-Player Character] to join the bouts in progress. The “Masked Minotaur” faces off against Aquila [Charles S./N.P.C.], a River Spirit Folk (eastern Grey Elf) Monk, and tattooed Eldamir is matched with Lorgan [Bruce K./N.P.C.], a Wolfen Barbarian and follower of Torr (Thor).

Kamar chats with redheaded priestess Yvonne Valetta at the temple of Brijitt,goddess of fire and poetry. The Suthern (proto-Arabic) human performs to gain entrance in the College of Valor. Yvonne mentions that a brave but foolhardy band entered the nefarious kingdom of Zuromm to the northwest but hasn’t been heard from since.

Nuriel learns about mushrooms from Gaffy Barkeater, a Forest Gnome Druid at the Grove of Mekkil. At the vaulted temple of Corellan Larethian, Nuriel talks with Vellamo, another Grey Elf Cleric. Vellamo describes a premonition of evil from the Shadowfell creeping into the Wisalef Forest.

Half-Elf Kaelen has a good evening at the Saffron Scabbard, while Half-Elf Puliarus is intrigued by the magical shops, sages, and archives at the Istari Bazaar.

Eldritch arena duel
At the arena, Lorgan has gray fur, scars, and an ugly morning star. Eldamir stabs the Wolfen with “Tempest,” his trident. Barret charges at Aquila, who nimbly steps aside before striking him hard.

Eldamir and Lorgan trade heavy blows before the Atlantean knocks down the Wolfen. Waltod notes that the winner will have to fight the winner of the other bout. Aquila tries to trip the Masked Minotaur and switches to kicking him instead.

Barret surprises everyone, including himself, by knocking out Aquila with a Magic Missile from the brass orb on one of his horns! Waltod declares the match over on a technicality.

Cleavage can’t beat a muffin
At the Istari Bazaar, Puliarus buys a muffin from fortuneteller Tejai Marijukha [Bruce/N.P.C.]. A tall robed man named Perrin [Kim A.G./Drew S./N.P.C.] grabs the muffin and ducks into a tiny tent. Bystander Shang Dun [Beruk A./N.P.C.], a Shengtese Wu Jen (eastern human Wizard), watches with amusement.

Puliarus reaches for the tent but then sees a mighty Balrog. The storm Sorcerer casts Gust of Wind, which blows away the illusory Balrog and tent, revealing a mischievous Gnome munching his muffin. Perrin scurries off.

Voluptuous Tejai gives Puliarus a replacement muffin, and he enters the local Magisterium (magical academy). Harried librarian Leon the Blasphemer [Rich C.G./N.P.C.] directs him to Thyril Nailo [Paul J./Brian W./N.P.C.], an older Quelanthi (High Elf).

Shang Dun is skeptical that Thyril can help Puliarus with the scrimshaw that granted him his sorcerous abilities. However, the Elf is able to determine that the ivory came from an extraplanar source.

Thyril says, “Oops,” as a feeling of vertigo overcomes those present during a vision of a sea of stars. He says that others are looking for the scrimshaw.

Sometime later, the party reconvenes at the Golden Horn Hotel. Itharides and Cassy aren’t around. Kaelen plans to visit the Rangers’ Gate and quietly asks Nuriel for a Cure Disease. Barret and Puliarus share their magical findings. The team decides to head east first, then to Bokor Island.

Lord Adams gives the “Storm Riders” 5,000 crowns, which they save of an eventual ship of their own. He agrees to provide passage to the Hifalendorin naval base on the way to Lirgad….

I hope that those of you in the D&D5e telecom team enjoyed last night’s session, and I look forward to continuing our face-to-face adventures tonight!

I also look forward to eventually rejoining Jason E.R.’s “Star Wars: Dark Times” game. Let us know your availability for October.

D&D5e “Vanished Lands” telecom team Session 42.1 — Gathering in Gisar

Fellow role-players, here is my update for Session 42.1 of our higher-level D&D5e telecom game, which was held on Sunday, 27 September 2015:

In one ancient world, there was a place where strange majicks and demihumans 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.

Sometime after a group of former circus performers wandered aboard the airship Zephyr and a team of diplomatic escorts fought chaos in Tong Sheng, another crew gathered on the Sea of Nagendwa, and past heroes reunited….

Player Characters for Gene D.’s “Vanished Lands” higher-level teleconferencing fantasy campaign, using Dungeons & Dragons Fifth Edition, Skype, and the Rolz online dice roller, as of autumn 2015:

  • “Kunal Sampat Rajiv Ramaprased” [Beruk A.]-male Harrappan (proto-Indian) human Rogue and cook, member of the (D&D3.5) “Broken Chains”; NGc, Lvl. 10
  • “Melchior Merryman” [Byron V.O./absent]-male Saganim/Hifalendorin human Cleric of Ulandt, hunter of Undead, former member of the (D&D3.0) “Seekers of Lore” and associate of (D20/FATE) “Vistel’s Expedition”; NGl, Lvl. 10
  • “Amethyst IronSoul” [Geoff C.]-male Warforged battle master (Fighter champion), with a great sword; LNg, Lvl. 10
  • “Ember Talon” [Sara F./absent]-female Crane Hengeyokai Wu (shapeshifting Druid), actually a young gold dragon banished from the Celestial Court (see D20/FATE “A New Dawn”); NGl, Lvl. 10
  • “Eoghan, son of Kyndeyrn” [Josh C./absent]-male Half-Elf (Saganim human/Fey-touched) Warlock (formerly Bard), associate of the “Broken Chains”; CGn, Lvl. 10

Backup Player Character roster for Gene D.’s D&D5e “Vanished Lands: Avengers” telecom team, as of summer 2015:

  • “Moon Jung-Mo” [Dexter V.H.]-male Nannuattan Ninja (eastern Dark Elf Assassin) who has left the Shadow’s Claw clan and is posing as a River Spirit Folk (eastern Grey Elf) merchant; with young wyvern Niruth (see D20/FATE “A New Dawn”); LNg, Lvl. 10
  • “Sakan Agramon Majere/ Sam” [Beruk A.]-male Irda (High Ogre) Ranger, charlatan disguised as a human, with a snow leopard (from Dexter’s D&D5e “Land of Lost Souls”); TNc, Lvl. 10
  • “Toshiharu ‘Toshi’ Sembutsu” [Byron V.O.]-male Shan Sao Wu Jen (eastern Halfling Wizard) with tiger companion Amaya and a destiny (“A New Dawn”); NGc, Lvl. 10
  • “Tonks Cinderclaw” [Sara F.]-female Gokuri Dragonborn Fighter, member of the (D&D4e) “Faith-Based Initiative”; CGn, Age 21, Lvl. 10
  • “Hateem Shisakli” [Josh C.]-male Suthern human Dervish (proto-Arabic Barbarian, formerly Bard/Battledancer), associate of the (Pathfinder ) “Uncommon Companions”; LGn, Lvl. 10
  • “Soske’ Tiatoshe” [Geoff C.]-male Shengtese Tian Shukenja (eastern human Cleric), priest and animist from the Phoenix Clan, prophesied to do great things but plagued by family and ancestor spirits (“A New Dawn”); LNg, Lvl. 10
  • “Saigo Kasugi” [Bruce K.]-male Bamboo Spirit Folk Samurai (eastern Sylvan Elf Cavalier) discreetly serving his daimyo (“A New Dawn”); LNg, Lvl. 10

“1 to 3 November 1227 B.C.E.:” Deep in the Ivory Mountains, a Dwarf Paladin saddles her gryphon steed. Bellanora has fought monsters threatening the Zeda kingdom, but her father, King Bertrand, urges her to see the wider world.

At the edge of the Halmed Desert, a Suthern human cook gathers exotic seeds. Kunal has left the oasis created by the “Broken Chains” (including Eoghan) and returns to wandering.

On the central Plains of Sathendo, Gisar is inhabited by barbaric tribes of humans and humanoids and is ruled by vampires. Corwin belatedly joins Saganim countryman Melchior there to track down his half-brother Prince Daven and the malevolent Lord Dalek.

The Gusorin Confederation has fallen to the Undead and the Gokuri Empire. Warforged Amethyst heads to Gisar to seek work for his mercenary band.

Gloomy port of Gisar
Streets of Gisar

Far to the northeast, Druid Ember leaves her friends in the Therud Forest to continue her quest to regain her true form as a gold dragon. The long-range communications networks established by “Milos” [Beruk A.] and “Elsa” [Rich C.G.] also bring news of troubles on the Sea of Nagendwa.

Disguised in black leather as “Randall the Rogue,” Corwin leaves “Vistel’s Expedition” and the airship Zephyr and slips into Gisar to look for Melchior. The Bard finds the Cleric’s safehouse, but it has been ransacked, and nobody is around. Corwin then heads to the temple of Brijitt, goddess of fire and poetry.

Bellanora avoids Barovic Castle and lands near the Sweetmeats Caravanserai at the outskirts of Gisar. She finds discreet stabling for her gryphon and senses malicious intent all around.

Kunal disembarks from a ship from the distant port of Falit. The Rogue hopes to free slaves and develop informants in gloomy Gisar. He sees Skaevingol (proto-Scandinavian), Tsucharim (Mongol-like), and Vistani (Slavic/Gypsy-like) humans, as well as Wolven, Nezumi (rat folk), and Minotaurs.

Amethyst arrives in the city and ignores curious stares as he walks on between Spice Square and Council Square on Indra Avenue. The battle master crosses paths with a large Ogre being ridden by a hairless Halfling.

Troll rider
Ogre and rider

The Ogre brushes past the Warforged, despite the angry chatter of its rider, who expects to be addressed as “Milord” Drik Knobspittle. The Ogre, Drool-licker by name, begins boxing with Amethyst.

Bellanora isn’t impressed by the crowd gathering to watch the brawl, but Kunal bets on the construct. Meanwhile, at the temple of Brijitt, Gerta the Naughty greets Corwin. The wandering noble asks the priestess about Melchior, but she hasn’t seen the former “Seeker of Lore.”

An acolyte arrives and tells Gerta and Corwin about a street brawl nearby. They go to investigate, as Amethyst trips Drool-licker. Unharmed, Drik crawls out from under the Ogre and casts Tasha’s Hideous Laughter. His cream pie misses.

Corwin then recognizes a hooded figure standing next to a Dwarf in the crowd. It is the Tiefling mage Lord Dalek, who framed the young prince for the murder of his lover.

The malevolent mage Dalek
Tiefling mage Lord Dalek

Bellanora notices Dalek reaching into his robes and warns him not to interfere with Amethyst’s fight. The Wizard mocks the Paladin for as a spoiled ingenue who needs a man’s guidance.

Amethyst punches the prone Ogre, and Drik drops trou and emits a Stinking Cloud, which spoils Dalek’s attempted spellcasting. Kunal circles around, and Corwin casts Greater Invisibility on himself.

Drool-licker gets slammed by metallic Amethyst, and angry Bellanora draws  Kestaz Heus, her holy warhammer. Scrawny Drik casts Grease, while horned Dalek creates a Globe of Invulnerability around himself. The Ogre struggles to stand up.

Vengeful Corwin calls down a Flamestrike on Dalek, also burning Bellanora and scaring away most spectators. Stealthy Kunal attacks Dalek, and Bellanora switches to her heavy crossbow, Taang Shmaukeh Kaurn, whose bolts penetrate the Tiefling’s Stoneskin.

Dalek retaliates with a Cone of Cold, injuring Bellanora and killing Drool-licker. Drik scampers away into the retreating crowd. Still invisible, Corwin stabs hated Dalek with his two short swords.

Amethyst bellows at Dalek, “Why did you get in the middle of my fight?” and pulls out his great hammer while making a leaping attack. Bellanora Dispels the mage’s  Globe of Invulnerability and slays him with a Staggering Smite. She then prays to Vulkan (Moradin).

Bard Corwin beheads the Tiefling, and Kunal quickly searches the corpse before it is incinerated. The Rogue finds silver Saganim rings, a spellbook, some coins, and a letter by Lord Dalek in Barbari begging a boon from the “Red Circle.”

Fighter Amethyst tells Paladin Bellanora that he has been looking for a worthy fight. Corwin becomes visible and thanks Bellanora, Kunal, and Amethyst for their help. He invites them back to the temple of Brijitt for a safe place to spend the night.

Corwin gives Amethyst 500 gold pieces, but Kunal realizes that he can’t collect on his wager on the Warforged. Bellanora is still mad about being caught in theFlamestrike. Corwin asks his new allies to help him search for Melchior in the morning….

I’m glad that we got the new telecom team together, and I look forward to continuing our adventures on Sunday nights! Remember to review your character records on Obsidian Portal.

I also look forward to continuing the face-to-face “Storm Riders” and Jason E.R.’s “Star Wars: Dark Times” adventures….

D&D5e “Vanished Lands” F2F nautical crew Session 41.10 — Yelp for help

Fellow role-players, here is my update for Session 41.10 of our face-to-face D&D5e game, which Drew & Divya S. hosted in Needham, Mass., on 7 September 2015:

In one ancient world, there was a place 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.

Sometime after a group of former circus performers wandered aboard the airshipZephyr and a team of diplomatic escorts fought chaos in Tong Sheng, past heroes reunited, and another band gathered on the Sea of Nagendwa….

Player Character roster for Gene D.’s “Vanished Lands” nautical campaign, using Dungeons & Dragons Fifth Edition, as of autumn 2015:

  • “Kamar Alazar” [Beruk A.]-male Suthern human swashbuckler (proto-Arabic Bard) of the College of Valor, former member of the “Liberators” and “Dragonslayers”; CG, Lvl. 3
  • “Nuriel Earendil” [Brian W.]-male Grey Elf acolyte of light (Cleric of Corellan Larethian); NG, Lvl. 3
  • “Kaelen Northsea” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf hunter and horde breaker (Sylvan/Saganim Ranger), seeking his father; NG, Lvl. 3
  • “Eldamir Tempestborn” [Rich C.G.]-male Atlantean human soldier (Theran/Minoan Barbarian), tattooed berserker of the Order of the Kingfisher, specialist in the net and trident; CG, Lvl. 3
  • “Barret” [Drew S.]-male Minotaur wrestler and gladiator (Fighter) with a wanderlust and a desire to help; LG, Lvl. 3
  • “Puliarus Aearion” [Charles S./absent]-male Half-Elf sage (Thalassaquendi storm Sorcerer), seeking to befriend all; CN, Lvl. 3
  • “Cassy Keelnipper” [Sara F./absent]-female Otter-kin Rogue, street urchin, and sailor; NG, Lvl. 2

Backup characters:

  • “Ludovico ‘Ludo’ Rosso” [Beruk A.]-male human ex-gladiator (Monk; see Bruce K.’s Pathfinder: Eberron/Reign of Winter); LN, Lvl. 1
  • “?” [Brian W.]-male Hifalendorin (proto-Western European) human Fighter, pragmatist; LN, Lvl. 1
  • “?” [Sara F.]-female ?; NG, Lvl. 1
  • “Drogan” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Orc (Saganim) Barbarian, with a great sword; CN, Lvl. 1
  • “Sebastian Leafsworn” [Rich C.G.]-male Sylvan Elf Monk and sage, with forbidden lore; LG, Lvl. 1
  • “Vasco” [Drew S.]-male clockwork butler (Warforged), former member of theZephyr ’s crew, displaced in time and space; LN, Lvl. 1
  • “Antoun Miner” [Charles S.]-male Hill Dwarf Druid, healer curious about the sea; TN, Lvl. 1

“19 to 25 October 1227 B.C.E.:” Upon its return to port, the adventuring party split up to distract the crew of the Lazy Goat while a few members checked out the cog for possible slaver gold. Once an alarm was raised, the would-be thieves regrouped and managed to evade blame. They then left on the Floating Eel, a mercenary vessel.

The Floating Eel sails from Drunstimlos north toward Sanry. Kamar is familiar with the route and plays music for the crew and passengers. Nuriel continues catching up with his grandmother Itharides, who has hired the ship to take her to the (proto-Western European) human kingdom of Hifalendor.

Kaelen watches Henry “the Ghost” Grayson, former captain of the pirate ship Bronze Storm and now first mate on the Floating Eel. Eldamir doesn’t trust the Ghost and his men, since the team had fought him previously while aboard the Saganim navy cruiser H.M.S. Dauntless.

Barret peels vegetables in the galley and tells Puliarus about Hendlir, guardian of the ways. Cassy is nowhere to be seen. Itharides tells Nuriel that she is traveling east to deal with people who have betrayed her, and he offers to accompany her.

The Ghost seems to have earned the respect of both Capt. Kassem al-Zaweh’s men and his own former crew, observes Kaelen. Eldamir tells his companions that he has been “communing with the storm lords,” who recommend looking for fellow Atlantean exiles in Hifalendor.

Barret defeats three men in wrestling matches, earning 25 sovereigns (gold pieces). The “Masked Minotaur” notices Severus al Rakeem, a Dubwana (Hobgoblin) corsair, standing apart from the other spectators.

Later that night, Eldamir overhears two sailors murmuring about a mutiny. He discreetly gathers his group and recommends guarding the captain and Itharides.

Kaelen directly asks Grayson about his intentions. The Ghost says he has no intention of turning on Capt. al-Zaweh and that only a third of the current crew is from the Bronze Storm. Grayson suggests talking with Emilio Chauvet, his own former first mate, using the passphrase “Remember those three nights in Falit?”

Kamar and Kaelen arrive on the main deck and are greeted by eight sailors brandishing belaying pins. The Bard casts True Strike, and the Ranger casts Hunter’s Mark on himself.

Nuriel stays close to Itharides and hears two apparently drunk seamen outside her cabin. They bash the door in, and the Cleric of Corellan Larethian draws his sword. The mutineers beat him with makeshift clubs.

Eldamir and Puliarus slip into the water to circle around. The Barbarian and Sorcerer find a Sahuagin, or shark man, lurking near the ship. Barret returns to the galley to watch the armory, but al Rakeem hits the Fighter with a frying pan.

Itharides seems unconcerned as Nuriel Channels Divinity and knocks down both of their attackers with Radiance of the Dawn. The Grey Elves tie them up, don armor, and venture into the corridor. Nuriel casts Cure Light Wounds on himself.

Horned Barret gets into a shoving match with the Hobgoblin, trashing the galley. Suthern (proto-Arabic) human Kamar throws a boarding axe, and Half-Elf Kaelen kills a mutineer with his two short swords.

Eldamir rages against the Sahuagin, but Half-Elf Puliarus misses. Nuriel heads upstairs to the main deck, while Itharides draws her sword Ramaqualme (“Winged Death”) and goes to the crew quarters.

Kaelen kills a second sailor, but he and Kamar are soon overwhelmed by the survivors. Capt. al-Zaweh slays the Sahuagin with a crossbow bolt, and Puliarus stays in the water to make sure the mutineers have no other amphibious allies.

Nuriel casts Burning Hands and Warding Flares before he, too, is knocked out. Fortunately, Eldamir climbs into the captain’s cabin, and he, Capt. al-Zaweh, and the Ghost charge out into the fray.

The mutineers on deck get no reinforcements because Itharides intimidates those in the hold into submission. Eldamir aids Kamar, who casts Sleep on three crew members. Kaelen regains consciousness and stealthily drinks a healing potion.

Kaelen joins Barret’s brawl in the galley and stabs the Hobgoblin before dragging him to the main deck of the Floating Eel. The remaining rebels surrender and are disarmed.

Grayson reports to the captain that out of a crew of about 30 and a dozen mutineers, two are dead, six were wounded, and three are unconscious. Puliarus adds that the Sahuagin is also dead.

Capt. al-Zaweh says that the mutineers will be restrained and set ashore at the next port, but the Ghost sets an example by executing al Rakeem. Kaelen assures the commanders that the rest of the sailors are loyal.

That night, adventurers take double watches alongside the regular crew. Eldamir and Nuriel believe that Itharides hired cutthroats to test human virtue as she travels east to deal with evil guild members.

The Floating Eel arrives at the Saganim (proto-Celtic) human village of Sanry. Nuriel looks for a temple to Ghanki, lord of the sea, but the only chapel in town is dedicated to Brijitt, goddess of fire and poetry. The priest had hoped to ask about finding a replacement for Fr. Gwydion in Drunstimlos.

Kamar performs at the church of Brijitt and flirts with Eileen O’Shea. Most of the Bard’s companions head to the “Steed’s Stream” pub. Kaelen prays to tempest god Ano Wasu, and the scout is disappointed that Sanry has no brothel.

Eldamir learns from Capt. al-Zaweh that the ship is staying only one night and that supplies should be available in the morning. The warrior of the Order of the Kingfisher watches to make sure the mutineers leave.

Remembering that some Saganim peasants are intolerant of nonhumans and arcanists, Puliarus stays with Itharides on the Floating Eel. Barret looks for wrestling matches.

The next morning, the crew and passengers set sail for Semorn, the next coastal community on the way to Hesolin, the capital of Hifalendor. They later pass the swamps that fill the delta of the Aehonir River.

The walled city of Hesolin in the "Vanished Lands"
Hesolin, capital of the kingdom of Hifalendor

Eldamir recommends having a plan for time ashore in the large city, where there are other ships and potentially paying missions. Swashbuckler Kamar notes that he has been to Hesolin before, with the [D&D3.0] “Liberators” and “Dragonslayers.”

Nuriel wants to explore the local culture, visit the temple of Addoh/Ghanki, and stay with Itharides and the Floating Eel. Kaelen wants to carouse, while Eldamir hopes to find fellow Atlantean exiles.

Barret is interested in acquiring armor and various arenas. Puliarus agrees with Kamar and Eldamir’s caution to stay together.

In terms of identifying their band, Kamar again offers the “Motley Crusaders,” but Eldamir prefers the “Sons of Atlantis.” Puliarus suggests the “Storm Riders.”

The away team bids a temporary farewell to the Floating Eel and enters walled Hesolin. Itharides gets a room at the Golden Horn Hotel for 4 crowns (gold pieces) per night.

Kaelen pays for the rest of the group should also stay at the fancy hotel on the Castle Court. The hunter then visits Gnomish moneychangers on Sailor’s Walk and deposits 18 g.p. in gems, 6 pearls worth 10 g.p. each, 20 crowns, and 8 silver pieces — most of his wealth. Kaelen also wants to sell a scroll at the Istari Bazaar.

The group walks along Embassy Row and through various markets in the shadow of the Royal Palace. Kamar says he’ll be in the College of Valor at the temple of Brijitt in the theater district.

Cleric of Light Nuriel also plans to visit the cathedral of Corellan at Temple Court. Eldamir, who is on the Path of the Berserker, buys two rope nets and a metal one.

Barret goes to South Square, where the Minotaur commissions light wooden armor for 20 crowns. Although he is a storm Sorcerer, Puliarus is curious about the Magisterium (magic school). Kamar offers to join him.

Eldamir buys a map of the city and says that the Library of Memir and the Rangers’ Gate might be additional sources of Atlantean lore and potential missions….

Remember to update your character records on Obsidian Portal to Level 3! I’ll post separately regarding trinkets and destinations in Hesolin.

I look forward to starting the higher-level D&D5e “Vanished Lands” telecom team, as well as to rejoining Jason’s “Star Wars: Dark Times” game. In the meantime, stay in touch.

“Star Trek: Restoration” Episode 6 — Into the Betreka Nebula

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for our latest “Star Trek” telecom game on Sunday, 23 August 2015:

“Space, the final frontier. Our starship’s mission: to explore strange new worlds, to seek out new life forms and new civilizations, and to boldly go where no one has gone before.”

Almost four decades after the Enterprise-E fought the Borg and Remans [Nemesis], among others, the United Federation of Planets and other interstellar states in the Alpha Quadrant are slowly recovering from wars and ecological disasters. A refitted vessel takes a new crew on its first missions of defense, diplomacy, and exploration….

Player Characters for Gene D.’s ” Star Trek: Restoration” space opera scenario, using D20 Prime Directive, FATE 3e Starblazer Adventures, Bulldogs, and Mindjammer 2e, plus Starships and Spacemen 2e, house rules, Obsidian Portal, Skype, and the Rolz.orgonline dice roller, as of summer 2015:

  • “Lieutenant Kyerak” [Bruce K.]-male half-Vulcan with ambition and a temper, in the U.S.S. Rotha’s command division
  • “Lt. Jarric Jameson” [Dexter V.H.]-male genetically modified human colonist (former Maquis) and commando
  • “Lt. Orzzek Kalifa” [Byron V.O.]-male Andorian (blue-skinned humanoid with white hair and antennae), assertive science officer
  • “Lt. Mari Killu” [Sara F.]-female Caitian (felinoid) security/tactical officer
  • “Lt. Boran’ Gorir” [Josh C.]-male Jem’Hadar (Dominion soldier), aggressive envoy/engineer
  • “Chief Ravi Chandler” [Brian W.]-male Altairian human, non-commissioned officer and transporter expert aboard the Rotha
  • “Froot” [Rich C.G.]-male Ferengi (short, large-eared extraterrestrial) merchant and negotiator, DaiMon and owner of the trade vessel Love’s Latinum Lost
  • “Kimbal Tegan” [Beruk A.]-male Trill (long-lived symbiont), operations specialist aboard the Love’s Latinum Lost
  • “Tau” [Drew S.]-male Ferengi, medic aboard the Love’s Latinum Lost

Previously, in “Star Trek: Restoration,” the U.S.S. Rotha faced off against hostile starships in the Neutral Zone and covertly investigated interference in a former Federation member world.

Ambassador-class starship
The U.S.S. Rotha

“Stardate 95306.39 (22 April 2418):” The U.S.S. Rotha and the Love’s Latinum Lost leave the Aldebaran system. Capt. Andelina Nobatu orders helmsman En. Brandon Marks to set course for Psi Ursae Majoris because an unidentified subspace signal originates from that area.

Lieut. K’dex points out that the Betreka Nebula is on the way. Not only is it similar to the hazardous Badlands, but it’s also between Federation, Klingon, and Cardassian territory, points out the Edosian science officer.

Capt. Nobatu agrees with Cmdr. Nasami Wahid’s recommendation that the crew go to yellow alert for the duration of skirting the nebula, and the Trill first officer relays her order to Security Chief  Pierre McDonnough.

DaiMon Froot requests permission to accompany the Rotha, and Capt. Nobatu reluctantly orders engineer Lt.Cmdr. Akira Gorou to extend the starship’s warp field to enclose the Love’s Latinum Lost.

Lt. Kyerak asks Capt. Nobatu permission to observe her command style so that he may learn from it. The Terran human gives her consent for him to stay on the bridge, as long as the half-Vulcan is able to fulfill his regular duties.

Lt. Jarric Jameson goes to ask Mr. Kyerak a question, but when he sees the officer with the captain, the human colonist turns on his heel and goes the other way down the corridor. Jarric then bumps into a half-Klingon and a Trill.

After listening to Ferengi crewmates Froot and Tau talk about oo-mox (earlobe massages), Kimbal Tegan requests permission to leave the Love’s Latinum Lost for the Rotha. The Trill pilot seeks out Cmdr. Wahid, with whom he has a shared history.

Lt. Orzzek Kalifa conducts research on the Betreka Nebula. The Andorian science officer learns that the nearest charted worlds are the Nuburon colony; Tammeron, known for smuggling biotech; and the former slavers of Skagaran. The nearest U.F.P. members are Risa and Betazed.

Lt. Jameson asks his superior, Lt. Artemis Borellis, for permission to study advanced tactics and munitions in addition to his existing survival skills. The Betazed counselor approves.

Sometime later, the Rotha’s junior officers compare notes in the “Starlight Lounge,” as Bolian bartender Mr. Vallcin provides food and drink. Kimbal notes that the area is rife with smugglers and bandits and recalls a Bajoran prophecy of a wanderer finding paradise.

Back on the Ambassador-class starship’s bridge, Lt. Kalifa scans the nebula and finds a protostar emitting charged particles but no warp signatures. Lt. Kyerak takes a shift at the helm, while Mr. Tegan reaches out psionically.

The Rotha detects a Starfleet hull in the nebula. It is the U.S.S. Essex NCC-173, a Daedalus-class ship believed lost with all hands more than 250 years before, many parsecs away near the Mab-Bu IV.

The Essex
Derelict Daedalus-class starship

Mr. Kyerak searches Starfleet records for the Essex crew and learns of Capt. Bryce Shumar, Cmdr. Steven Mullen, and Lt. Morgan Kelly. Orzzek finds that the derelict vessel has lost pressurization and that its warp core has been dumped.

Jarrick checks with Dr. Jones, the holographic chief medical officer, for supplies such as vacc suits for a potential survey of the Essex.

Kimball informs his Ferengi friends of an opportunity for salvage, and Capt. Nobatu approves an away mission. She assigns security officer En. Scalzi to join Lt. Kyerak, Lt. Jameson, Lt. Kalifa, and Mr. Tegan.

Lt. Jameson pilots a shuttle to the Essex. The away team makes its way aft, toward life support. The five explorers hope to restart the antique fusion reactors for sublight power and life support.

Lt. Kyerak then makes his way to the command center, but he finds bridge controls nonresponsive. Lt. Kalifa examines the main computer core and finds corrupted code.

Mr. Tegan and En. Scalzi keep in contact with Lt. Jameson and check sickbay. They report that it has been strangely stripped of medical equipment and move on to main engineering.

Kyerak searches the officers’ quarters and finds that the archives have been wiped. He does find old uniforms and a notebook of Atina Xdar, an Andorian who was the starship’s acting captain when it was disabled centuries ago.

Daedalus starship interior
Daedalus deck plan

Orzzek observes that the corrupted code in the ship’s computer tries to jump to his tricorder, and he recommends tech quarantine procedures. As Kimball and En. Scalzi search for a ship’s library, Jarric calls them back to the shuttle. He says that he has been unable to raise the Rotha, which is apparently suffering from power fluctuations.

The away team undocks and reads the final entry in Xdar’s journal: “They’ve gotten under our skin. We’re spacing the dead.Remember us….”

While I’m sorry that I missed Jason’s latest “Star Wars: Dark Times”session, I look forward to continuing our adventures tonight and the D&D5e “Vanished Lands” nautical crew tomorrow! Live long and prosper….