“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Session 30 — Tarvulis Island: Tequila, tattoo, and Tondra

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands” Session 39.30, which Brian W. hosted in Newton, Mass., on Monday, 6 January 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. 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

“1 to 3 February 1227 B.C.E.:” In the city of Falit, Giacomo claimed a favor from Darius Gaspar, Scully joined the Order of the Golden Lion, and Tempestade prepared to return to his former plantation. Corwin and Elsa verified objectives in the Zarendo Islands.

Sir Torrel met the Mamluks, the caliph’s elite warriors. Later on the Sea of Nagendwa, Hamfast and the passengers and crew of the Sea Elven schooner “Foamrunner” fought an Undead shark, possibly part of the dreaded Ghost Fleet.

At Tarvulis Island, the former circus performers consult “Vasec” [Alex J./Non-Player Character], a Drow Archmage and Loremaster. The onetime circus performers need help rescuing Lady Shadira, an Efreet (fire spirit), from a greater Devil on Salhonif Island.

Spellcasters Giacomo, Corwin, and Elsa conduct research in Vasec’s library. Restless Hamfast decides to wander around the tropical island, and Tempestade and Sir Torrel join him. Scully talks with Nevada Sphereskimmer, a Giff (hippo-like) adept.

Wizard Giacomo reads about dimensional magic such as Banishment but is interrupted by Tequila, Vasec’s curious pseudodragon familiar. Half-Elf Bard Corwin also copies arcane spells while keeping an eye out for Serina, a Tiefling (demon-blooded) student.

Dwarf Druid Elsa finds letters describing studies done by Vasec and others on the Undead pirates commanded by “Capt. Jack Kildare” [Randy K.M./N.P.C.]. They describe attempts to find a contagion that could affect bearers of the Scourge.

Scully and Nevada go outside so that he can demonstrate his blunderbuss. The Giff’s primitive firearm fires only on the third attempt, but its recoil almost knocks down the Gnoll Ranger.

Hamfast, Tempestade, and Sir Torrel leave the former “Liberator’s” stronghold and cross the caldera of Tarvulis Island’s inactive volcano. They see two other peaks. A balloon floats near one, dropping experimental explosives. They decide to head to the third one.

Unfortunately, Torrel falls in some mud, and a giant leech attaches itself to his neck. The Paladin’s friends bring him back to the Vasec’s Magisterium (magic school/library) in the former dragon lair, where Elsa, Goblin scribe Durange, and Akkadian human Dornamu can attend to him.

Fighter Hamfast and Monk Tempestade again venture into the jungle. They find fresh graves and decide to head back to the beach to hail the Foamrunner. However, Tequila appears and asks for rum. Tempestade shares some, and he and Hamfast suddenly find themselves in the gray streets of Gisar!

Hamfast is happy to be back north and buys a turnip from a passing cart. Although Tempestade hopes to use an obelisk in the barbaric port to get back to his distant homeland and rescue fellow slaves, he isn’t pleased about the cold weather.

After buying drinks at the “Broken Lance” bar, Hamfast and Tempestade join the raucous crowd watching two Wolven fight a Minotaur in the Vistani Arena, far from the Zarendo Islands.

Meanwhile, on Tarvulis Island, Serina senses that something is awry and tells Corwin that two of his companions have left the island. The Saganim (proto-Celtic) prince gathers the rest of his adventuring party and goes to Vasec’s scrying chamber.

Gerald, Giacomo’s winged homunculus familiar, peeks under the cloth covering a crystal ball. The group glimpses hellish flames. Giacomo begins acting even more strangely than usual, prompting Sir Torrel to Detect Evil.

The Hifalendorin (proto-Northwestern European) human’s aura has changed, and Elsa tries to cast Hold Person but fails. Corwin’s Dispel Magic temporarily suppresses Giacomo’s alternate personality, and Torrel punches the Wizard in the face, knocking him out. Scully notices that Giacomo even smells different.

Durange [Brian/N.P.C.] and Nevada [Josh/N.P.C.] help tie him up. Vasec appears and is displeased at the intrusion, but Elsa’s apology seems to mollify the Dark Elf. The Mage eventually agrees to determine what’s wrong with Giacomo, find the missing party members, and help with their missions.

Vasec redirects the crystal ball from its “default setting” and finds Hamfast, Tempestade, and Tequila (disguised in human form) in Gisar. The adolescent pseudodragon realizes that he has been found and Teleports the trio back to Tarvulis Island. Vasec punishes his wayward familiar by “grounding” him. Elsa berates Tempestade for leaving.

Scully holds onto Gerald, and Serina suggests removing Giacomo’s shirt. A strange tattoo on his back tries to speak with those in the room, but Vasec orders it to be quickly covered. He recognizes the Mad Mage Ezra, who has apparently been imprisoned but still seeks to thwart death.

Through Vasec’s crystal ball, Tempestade sees Lady Shadira, who has been Polymorphed into a Shambling Mound near the devil’s temple. The time-displaced capoeirista also tries to find his homeland relative to Gisar.

In return for an enchanted rod from the hoard of the late dracolich Daneira in Gisar, Vasec agrees to create a Lens of True Sight to help the onetime members of Vistel’s Circus spot Lady Shadira and others transformed on Salhonif Island.

Giacomo gradually returns to his senses and trades for Arcanist’s Gloves. Hamfast is disappointed to be away from the arena, and Scully asks him for a turnip. Vasec tells Tempestade that there are ways to get back to the “Vanished Lands” besides finding the obelisk in his own time.

Corwin asks the Archmage for Counterstrike Bracers and a Vanishing Cloak, which he hopes to get the next time he visits the island. Sir Torrel doesn’t trust the Drow or his followers.

Elsa asks Vasec about the Ghost Fleet and gives Durange her notes on the cult of Krakas, lord of the maelstrom, to copy. The priestess also acquires 10 Daylight Pellets against the Undead and inquires about a Crystal Mask of Languages.

That night, the travelers sleep fitfully. Sir Torrel has a dream in which he is covered by leeches and talks with Pit Fiend Schm*ckF*ck. Scully sees herself covered by the moving tattoo of a sorcerous puppet.

The next morning, the weary wanderers follow Vasec’s recommendation to visit “Tondra Mokae” [Rob A.S., R.I.P.], a wise Cleric also on Tarvulis Island. The entire team proceeds more carefully through the jungle, even as it hears a large beast crashing toward it.

Elsa invokes Mekkil (Gaia), casts Friendly Forest, and shifts into bear form. Sir Torrel prays to Otih, god of the sun and justice, and casts Protection From Evil. Strongman Hamfast is not afraid of death and readies his maul. Scout Scully releases owl “Owlicious” and readies her longbow.

Nimble Tempestade climbs a tree to get an idea of where they are and sees a giant frog. Wary Giacomo and Gerald hang back. Prince Corwin prepares Lighting Bolt. A three-headed hydra comes charging out of the woods.

Elsa “Bearbottom” responds in kind, striking the hydra. Tempestade throws a javelin but misses, and Sir Torrel lops off a head with his sword. Corwin’s spell does some damage, and he moves to the creature’s rear.

Hamfist swings, but he hits Torrel by accident. Scully fires arrows, and Giacomo casts a maximized Magic Missile, which appears as a force arrow. The hydra breathes fire on Hamfast and Sir Torrel. Elsa’s winged cat Penryn flies out of range while she claws and bites at the monster.

Tempestade hurls another javelin and wishes that he could have ridden Elsa in bear form into battle. Sir Torrel and Corwin keep slashing at the hydra, and Hamfast finishes it off.

Giacomo harvests a fire gland. Scully claims some claws and tracks the beast back to a lair, where they find the following pirate booty:

Coins: 100 copper pieces, 150 silver pieces (worth 15 gold pieces), 800 electrum (worth 400 g.p.), 700 g.p., 10 platinum (worth 100 g.p.), and 700 g.p. worth of gems and pearls
A “+1” mace (claimed by Sir Torrel)
A short bow +1, +2 vs. regenerating foes (given to Scully)
A scroll of Protection vs. Elementals (held by the group)

Corwin divides the coins to about 350 g.p. per person, with a share going to the party fund. Giacomo tells Sir Torrel that there’s something wrong with his magical mace. The adventurers again pass the fresh graves and eventually come to Tondra’s garden, which is tended by Undead.

They enter the herbalist’s house and meet the Zarendo Islander human priestess of Buwalgo, the earth mother. Tondra explains that she splits her time between Tarvulis Island and Hesolin, the capital of the kingdom of Hifalendor. Tempestade recognizes Tondra as being similar to the shamans of Brazil.

Elsa asks Tondra about the Scourge and its connection to the followers of Krakas. Tondra explains that Capt. Kildare, while initially appearing only on Midsummer’s Eve, has somehow renegotiated his curse, enabling the Ghost Fleet to keep growing and sacking coastal communities.

The cultists of Krakas are chaotic, she continues, while Capt. Kildare and the followers of the devil on Salhonif Island are more orderly. Tondra suggests to Scully that, rather than trying to find and fight numerous Undead pirates at their headquarters, the would-be heroes pick a time and a place to lure Capt. Kildare into battle.

Corwin and Elsa thank Tondra for her advice. Giacomo and Hamfast bring Sir Torrel forward, and Tondra takes the cursed mace off the Paladin’s hands. She also gives him an Amulet of Hide Alignment.

The former performers head back to Vasec’s tower and the Foamrunner, which they plan to take next to the open port of Laguro on Bokor Island. There, Tempestade hopes to question Valoren, an experienced plane traveler….

Weather permitting, I look forward to continuing our adventures on Monday, Jan. 13! The “Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” telecom game should also continue this coming Sunday night.

Remember to post your character concepts for Jason E.R.’s upcoming “Glassworks: the Devil’s Den” superhero scenario (using Icons) and for Bruce’s planned “Eberron” game.

“Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” Session 40.7 — Escaping the Dark Elves

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands” Session 40.7, which was held on Sunday, 5 January 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 an online dice roller

“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

“Saigo Kasugi” [Bruce K.]-male Bamboo Spirit Folk Samurai (eastern Sylvan Elf Cavalier) discreetly serving his daimyo; LNg, 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

“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

“22 to 23 March 1227 B.C.E.:” The travelers ventured into marshes, where they defeated an Undead traitor and restored the honor of skeletal sentries. They then visited the Gokuri hamlet of Dulthor, where they received an insincere welcome.

Ember had seen a serving girl toss a gas grenade into the guest chamber, and Soske’ had tossed it back, incapacitating the sentries. Fortunately, Saigo had memorized the route into the subterranean outpost, and Toshi readied charcoal to mark the path.

Moon Jung-Mo and Sonny help Oh Kum-Ja, the Draconian bodyguard of Lady Yun Aei-Yong, who inhaled some gas. The Nannuattan (eastern Dark Elf) diplomat notes that onetime rival Byong Sudae apparently still holds a grudge.

Soske’ suggests searching for evidence that the commander has defied the orders of the kingdom of Gokuri, but Ember and Saigo recommend making a direct escape while they still can. Toshi hears noise in the passages outside their suite [Area 15].

Bamboo Spirit Folk Saigo and Hengeyokai Ember take the lead, followed by Shan Sao Toshi and Shukenja Toshi. Spirit Folk Jung-Mo, Shengtese human Sonny, Oh Kum-Ja, and Lady Yun follow toward the main staircase [Area 1].

The group creeps to a door into a central foyer, taking turns peeking at the local militia as it assembles. Toshi stumbles, revealing the escapees’ position, and Saigo throws a gas capsule confiscated from unconscious servants. It knocks out four out of six Gokuri guards.

Ember casts Light, but the Dark Elves shield their eyes in time. Tosh casts Elemental Burst on the earthen floors, injuring one soldier. Soske’ fires two arrows, slaying the wounded sentry. Reinforcements arrive, bringing the number of opponents back up to six. They strike Saigo and Soske’.

Samurai Saigo advances against the Nannuattan and draws his katana. Wu Ember kills a Gokuri human with her kama (sickle). Wu-Jen Toshi finishes another with shurikens (throwing stars). Shukenja Soske’ heals his companions with a Positive Energy Burst.

Yakuza Jung-Mo and Kensai Sonny haul burly Oh Kum-Ja up the stairs. Saigo slashes a foe in front, but Ember misses. Toshi slips on the stone steps, yet still manages to kill another with shurikens. He then casts Grease on the stairs below, and Soske’ fires arrows to further delay pursuit by three troops.

With eight enemies already dead and javelins flying from more below, the adventuring party ascends to the second level. Saigo is struck, but he pushes on. Rather than try to prevent an alarm from being raised, the team races up to a central hall on the ground level [Area 13], where more militia await.

Saigo crosses blades with Byong Sudae, who says that she wants no part of Lady Yun’s brokered peace with Gokuri’s neighbors. Ember Wild Shapes into a terrifying tiger and pounces on a Nannuattan Bushi.

Toshi flings more shurikens, and Soske’ drops the enchanted coins planted on him and fires an arrow at armored Byong Sudae. The Nannuattan Samurai is less lucky with the katana than Saigo, but she continues taunting him.

Jung-Mo and Sonny use their blades and chains to fend off yet more reinforcements and protect Lady Yun and Oh Kum-Ja. Desc Raidon, Byong’s lieutenant, hits Ember twice, and Hyoi Sun, a priestess of Yurdanthis, lord of the void, attempts to curse the interlopers.

The Nannuattan guard underneath Ember tries to stab her with a knife, but the Druid uses her tiger claws to dispatch him. Maehata Zen, a Wu Jen, Levitates Toshi to the ceiling. The diminutive Wizard shifts to baza (bird) form. However, a guard stabs Toshi with a naginata (halberd).

Saigo turns from Byong to help Ember and Soske’ with Desc. Hyoi casts Faerie Fire on Toshi, who throws his last shurikens in response. Ember rakes at the lieutenant and the remaining guard, who knock out Soske’ before being slain by the tiger.

Maehata casts Magic Missiles at Toshi, as well as Darkness and Shield spells to defend himself and Byong. Toshi casts Sonic Burst and Light, which partly negates the darkness around the melee. He then flies down to drag Soske’ to Sonny to bind his wounds.

Saigo cuts down Byong Sudae, and Ember kills Desc Raidon. Soske’ casts Weapon Bless on an arrow and drops Hyoi Sun. The Shukenja casts Light on a spear, but Maehata Zen gets away under cover of darkness and the sound of approaching warriors.

Ember treats Soske’s wounds, and Toshi grabs Byong’s katana as a trophy for Saigo. The group runs to the main gate and narrowly evades the falling portcullis, thanks in part to Sonny and Oh Kum-Ja.

As they run toward the dock, the travelers are pelted by crossbow bolts and sling stones. They find two human guards by their boats. Saigo, Toshi, and Soske’ fire a volley of arrows, knocking one into the chilly water. The last foe wisely jumps after his partner rather than fight.

Lady Yun and her escorts leap aboard the three barges and continue down the Balef River, eventually passing out of Dulthor’s reach. They rest and vow to avoid other Nannuattan.

Toshi later identifies Byong’s sword as belonging to the White Scorpion clan. It has a minor vampiric enchantment [heals 1 hit point to wielder for every 10 HP dealt]. Saigo and Jung-Mo note that it could be useful, but it should probably be sold in the longer term.

The three human crewmen take the boats southeast, in the direction of Shang Tao, a human town on the wide Plains of Sathendo….

Happy Anniversary, Dexter! We missed you and Beruk at last night’s telecom game. Bruce, Rich C.G., and I enjoyed fantasy flick 47 Ronin, despite its poor reviews, and Janice liked the animated Frozen.

I look forward to seeing some of you at tonight’s “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” face-to-face session. In the meantime, I also look forward to Jason E.R.’s “Glassworks: the Devil’s Den” superhero scenario (using Icons).

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Session 39.29 — The spectral shark

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands” Session 39.29, which Rich C.G. hosted in Waltham, Mass., on Monday, 30 December 2013:

“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

“19 to 31 January 1227 B.C.E.:” The adventurers recuperated and trained in Falit, capital of the Ebir Sheikdom. They had an audience with the Djinni Tarzu, who agreed to tell them how to operate an obelisk in Gisar, on the condition that they rescue an Efreet in the Zarendo Islands.

Giacomo summoned a familiar, Hamfast visited various taverns, and Scully met a fellow canine humanoid. Tempestade learned how to get to his former plantation, Corwin recuperated from being poisoned by a courtesan, and Elsa acquired a winged cat. Sir Torrel visited temples and got his shield enchanted against Undead.

Mage Giacomo gets acquainted with his homunculus Gerald and recovers from his taxing spellcasting at various coffee houses. Ranger Scully continues learning about the Undead from “Kemosh” [Byron V.O./Non-Player Character] and accepts the Anpur Kahin’s (Jackal-man Druid) offer to join the Order of the Golden Lion.

After consulting Falit’s three towers of sorcery, Monk Tempestade enjoys the warm weather and prepares to rescue fellow slaves. Druid Elsa spends time with her winged cat Penryn and studies new languages — Celestial, Ignan, and Infernal.

At the Court of Sighs, Prince Corwin visits Dermot Chadwick, a Saganim (proto-Celtic) human merchant and consul. Fighter Hamfast goes the Dhao Soukh (harbor market) to check out corsair Antar the Black. The Suthern (proto-Arabic) human captain of the Ghul’s Breath was referred to him by Vanaka (Dune Dwarf) Dorf Sandblaster at the “Frisky Unicorn” tavern.

Sir Torrel is brought by Sister Jamilah, an Amarati Ghaffir of Ishmas (Elf Paladin of Isis), to the Mamluk Krak, or castle of the caliph’s elite warriors. He meets Faisal ibn Usmed, an honorable Suthern slave/soldier/bureaucrat.

Giacomo tells Darius Gaspar, who arranged for members of Vistel’s Circus to perform at Caliph Hassan al Umid’s palace, that he owes him a favor. The Rangsten Sha’ir (Gnome Wizard) offers to help set up an audience with Vizier Govar al Sarseh at a future date.

Flind Scully tells Kemosh of her crew’s plans to visit the Zarendo Islands on its way to the barbaric port of Gisar, where an obelisk can help Tempestade return to his time. He notes that a powerful Wizard named “Vasec” [Alex J./N.P.C.] is at Tarvulis island and might be able to help.

Elsa writes letters to “Ulrich Vandermoor” [Ted A.H./N.P.C.] at the Royal Society for Cartography in Thadenis and sends herb samples to Barry the Gardener on Emein Island. The Hill Dwarf also arranges with Jendram Kahin (Gnome Druid) Budah Ranjon for young owlbear Oswald to be sent to Vistel’s Circus.

Bard Corwin talks with harbormaster Adm. Kawab Nofret and Capt. Scarlet of the Thalassaquendi (western Sea Elven) schooner Foamrunner. They verify that the plane traveler known as “Valoren” can be found at the open port of Laguro on Bokor Island.

Hamfast reminds his companions that they have agreed to rescue Lady Shadira, an Efreet (fire spirit) kinswoman of Djinni Tarzu who is held prisoner by a greater devil on Salhonif Island. Sir Torrel and Elsa are also interested in eventually taking on the dreaded ghost fleet.

The adventurers regroup at the Tower of Sight. Corwin trades barbs with “Frank” the Beholder, while Scully resists the temptation to again poke at the many blinking eyes in the tower’s walls.

Elsa asks blind seeress Lydia for means of True Seeing, since most enchanted items are beyond the party’s price range. Lydia says that several kings and high priests have crystal spheres, but the temple on Salhonif Island is shielded from scrying. To find Lady Shadira and other captives and guards transformed by the Pit Fiend, Lydia recommends asking Vasec for help.

Although Hamfast would prefer the Ghul’s Breath, the rest of his team votes to take the Foamrunner east to the Zarendo Islands. Capt. Scarlet plots a course to Tarvulis Island, about three days’ sail away, then to Bokor Island and Salhonif Island before turning north toward Gisar.

The wanderers set watches for the night: humans Hamfast and Tempestade first, followed by scouts Scully and Corwin and then armored Elsa and Sir Torrel. Late one evening, Scully spots a huge, glowing shark, which rams one of the Foamrunner’s pontoons.

Capt. Scarlet orders first mate Valagon and helmswoman Muriel to bring the ship around, and Hamfast and Sir Torrel help sailors Thenasquel and Caerisith at the oars and with damage control.

Elsa and cook Curufinwe attend to hull breaches and the wounded. Corwin casts Lightning Bolt, and Elsa joins with Call Lightning. Giacomo tries to Levitate the Undead shark, as Scully joins Cildor in loading a harpoon in an arbalest.

Tempestade stands by young seaman Erasol and stabs at the monster with a javelin. However, unlucky Delrembor falls overboard and is eaten. Corwin runs to the rail and draws his long sword. Elsa summons a water Elemental, and Giacomo casts Magic Missiles, which have little initial effect.

Scully and Cildor’s second shot hits, and she ties the rope around the main mast. Tempestade punches the passing shark in the eye as he slides around the deck. The beast swims under the Foamrunner and starts to pull the ship over because of Scully’s line. Corwin hacks at it to prevent capsizing.

Elsa invokes patron deities Mekkil (Gaia) and Vulkan (Moradin) to Bless the ship and again Calls Lightning. Both Corwin and the Elemental hit the shark, revealing glowing bones under its scales. Scully fires holy water arrows, while Tempestade swings a chain at the predator.

Corwin’s sword becomes a Flaming Weapon, thanks to Elsa, and Giacomo’s maximized Magic Missiles eventually destroy the Undead shark. The Sea Elves of the Foamrunner mourn the loss of Delrembor, and the passengers help the crew make repairs over the next few days.

As the swift ship sails across the Sea of Nagendwa, it encounters debris from a recent battle. Giacomo and Corwin use Detect Magic to determine that spells were cast and magical weapons were wielded. Against the recommendation of her companions, Scully puts on her goggles, grabs a rope, and looks underwater.

The albino Gnoll sees sinking corpses of Tritons (large aquatic humanoids) and Merrows (submarine Ogres). Unfortunately, any items they carried are out of reach. The group is glad to haul Scully back to the surface.

A day or so later, Scully and Araswe in the crow’s nest see the cone of an inactive volcano rising out of the sea. An away team goes ashore onto Tarvulis Island. Elsa casts Forest Friend, and Corwin and Scully lead the way through the dense jungle.

Wizard Giacomo and Elsa follow the trail, with Tempestade bringing up the rear. Hamfast and Sir Torrel initially wait with the dinghy, and Capt. Scarlet says that she’ll circle the island for three days before leaving, with or without them.

Elsa is impressed to find a topiary garden, but Scully notices singed treetops. In another garden of strange statues and colorful crystals, Tempestade touches one of the rocks, and his arm starts to petrify. Corwin casts Dispel Magic, and Giacomo recommends caution.

A lit path leads up the slope of “Mount Eden,” one of three peaks on the island. A Magic Mouth asks the visitors to identify themselves and admits them into the volcano. There, they see winding passages around a central chamber open to the sky. Scully smells traces of a dragon.

The onetime circus performers meet some adepts — a red Goblinoid scribe, a pale Githyanki, and a hippo-like Giff. Scully and Elsa are curious about the unusual students, but Giacomo and Corwin pretend to be unimpressed and go on for Tempestade’s sake.

The wanderers take a side passage to a solarium full of tablets, where they meet the Archmage and Loremaster Vasec. The former “Liberator” turns out to be a Drow (western Dark Elf) exile from Zuromm. Tempestade and company begin to explain their need for a means to find and rescue Lady Shadira from the Pit Fiend….

I look forward to continuing our adventures into the new year! Note that our next face-to-face game will be on Monday, 6 January 2014, weather permitting.

Also, note that tomorrow night’s “Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” telecom session will start at 8:00 p.m. because some of us will be screening 47 Ronin. Remember to post your character concepts for Jason E.R.’s upcoming “Glassworks: the Devil’s Den” superhero scenario (using Icons).

“Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” Session 6 — Curing a curse

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands” Session 40.6, which was held on Sunday, 29 December, 2013:

“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

“16 to 21 March 1227 B.C.E.:” After deciding to continue traveling on the Balef River, the group escorting a Gokuri diplomat stopped at the “Sandy Corner,” a tavern on stilts. They found mysterious skeletal warriors, an old curse, and giant amoebas.

Sonny and Saigo suspect Lady Yun Aei-Yong of being involved with the latest attack. The Nannuattan emissary tells the Kensai and Samurai that the monsters were likely attracted to the inn, but they could have been summoned by a ooze master.

Ember and Soske’ have tea and breakfast. The Druid talks about the wonders of flight, and the Shukenja blesses their meal. Merchant Moon Jung-Mo and Wu Jen Toshi help the boatmen reload the three barges.

Since the skeletons have been damaged, Sonny wonders if they should be rearmed, but Saigo doesn’t think it’s necessary. Soske’ suggests finding a way to resolve the fate on the Undead, who have been cursed to stand guard until their traitorous commander or his stolen gold return.

Saigo says that the team’s first duty is to covey Lady Yun safely to Sogewa, capital of Tong Sheng. The Mahotsukai (Sorceress), however, says she doesn’t mind a minor delay.

Ember notes that the skeletons have protected the “Sandy Corner,” but innkeeper Tan Shude says they indiscriminately attack anyone who is out at night. After some debate, the adventuring party decides to quickly check the nearby marshes.

Saigo asks Lady Yun to stay back with Toshi, Draconian bodyguard Oh Kum-Ja, and the boatmen. Hengeyokai Ember shifts into crane form to lead the way back to the rocky outcropping that she and Shan Sao Toshi had found.

Sonny, Saigo, and Soske’ cautiously proceed, with Jung-Mo quietly flanking in the snowy reeds. At the cave mouth, Ember, Saigo, and Soske’ hear snuffling and see a humanoid figure. Bamboo Spirit Folk Saigo throws a rock and hears a yell. It throws something at them.

From the air, Ember spots the leg of a local man who had been partially eaten by a giant amoeba. Stealthy Jung-Mo sneaks ahead, while Shengtese human Sonny looks in the cold water for other threats.

Shengtese priest Soske’ casts Protection From Evil, and he and Saigo draw their bows. Their arrows hit the emaciated humanoid. Ember casts Entangle, but her spell and Jung-Mo’s sneak attack both miss.

The ghoul, which Soske’ later identifies as a Jikininki, swings wildly at Jung-Mo. Sonny swings a weighted chain at the Undead. Soske’s second volley misses, and Saigo drops his daikyu and runs to close the distance.

Jung-Mo nearly hits Ember with a whippet (incendiary boomerang), and Soske’ casts Weapon Bless on Saigo’s katana, helping him to destroy the Jikininki in one blow.

Ember, who has shifted back to humanoid form, helps Saigo search the cave. They find rotten armor, a broken sword, a small chest, and a bundle of rags. Saigo takes the arms, while Ember finds gold coins in the rags.

Sonny searches the Jikininki and notices scraps of an antique Shengtese military uniform. Jung-Mo torches the corpse before helping Ember examine the chest. The Spirit Folk Yakuza eventually finds a needle trap and a chop (seal) of office.

Soske’ uses Sense Elements — Psychometry on the clothing and chest to identify the Undead officer as the traitor Ba Lang Liangde. Satisfied, the travelers return to the tavern. The skeletal sentries climb down from their rooftop perches.

Soske’ tells them that their honor is restored. The warriors take the katana and chest and march off into the swamp. Tan Shude thanks the would-be heroes for their help.

Ember and Sonny notice the seal of the Dragon Clan on the coins, which have been left behind. Sonny notes that the innkeeper has already been reimbursed for damages, and Soske’ says he’d like to return the gold to the Dragon Clan. Given Ember’s interest, the others let her hold onto the booty.

The three boats continue south on the Balef River for a few uneventful days. Jung-Mo analyzes the poison from the chest as a paralytic. The courtier also continues wooing Ember and avoiding Lady Yun. Toshi studies his arcane scrolls.

Diligent Sonny punches tubs of water, as armored Saigo practices his swordplay and meditates. Cheerful Soske’ prepares flaming arrows and has tea with Lady Yun, Saigo, and Sonny.

The boats stop one night at Dulthor, a hamlet on the Gokuri side of the river. Two Tsucharim (Mongol-style) human guards greet Lady Yun as she, Oh Kum-Ja, and others come ashore. Seng Yip Wu welcomes Lady Yun to the Nannuattan outpost.

Seng orders servants to carry the visitors’ gear as they descend three levels into the hills. The obsequious scribe shows them to a small but luxurious suite and leaves. Jung-Mo tries to slip out of the chambers but is blocked by Oh Kum-Jah and two guards out in the hallway.

Soske’ finds extra coins in his purse, which Lady Yun says could be used to magically track his movements. The Shukenja again uses Psychometry and gets a brief vision of an old man with two noses, no doubt an Oni, and a Nannuattan woman in armor.

Saigo sets watches and sits the first one with Ember. Soske’ and Moon take the second, with Sonny and Saigo planning to take the third to let Toshi study and rest. During the second watch, Soske’ and Jung-Mo hear a servant girl roll something into their room.

Quick-thinking Soske’ grabs the grenade and tosses it back, incapacitating the two guards. He then drags Oh Kum-Ja back into the cell and tries to rouse the Draconian. Saigo tells Lady Yun that they’re leaving and draws his katana.

Ember studies the grenade and helps revive burly Oh Kum-Jah. Soske’ uses smelling salts on one of the serving girls and interrogates her. She reveals that her mistress is Byong Sudae, a former rival of Lady Yun demoted to the border outpost.

The group grimly prepares to fight its way through the Dark Elven outpost back to the surface….

I hope that everyone’s holidays were happy, and Byron, I hope your daughter’s birthday celebrations went well. I look forward to continuing our adventures on Sunday, 5 January 2014.

Note that I’ll probably be running the “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” face-to-face game this coming Monday, and Jason E.R.’s “Glassworks: the Devil’s Den” superhero scenario (using Icons) will probably begin on Jan. 20.

“Star Wars: Dark Times” Session 8 — Enemy Mines

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for Session 8 of Jason’s space opera miniseries, which Brian W. hosted in Newton, Mass., on Monday, 23 December 2013:

A long, long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away — the Galactic Republic has been replaced by a ruthless empire, and the Jedi, once guardians of peace, are now hunted fugitives. In the Unknown Regions, at the edge of explored space, a few Jedi and their allies hope to survive and continue the fight for justice….

Player Character roster for Jason E.R.’s “Star Wars: Dark Times” scenario, using Savage Worlds, autumn 2013:

“Ekafti Acomar“ [Gene D.]-female Rhinnalian human Jedi consular, older diplomat with many contacts but few remaining friends
“Garolos Banku Nuruolos — Garos“ [Beruk A.]-male Chiss (blue-skinned humanoid) ex-Jedi, gambler and owner of the light freighter “Lucky Strike“
“Oong Bak“ [Brian W.]-male Duros (gray-skinned humanoid) honorable and talented mechanic
“Ari Sundar“ [Sara F.]-female Ssi-ruu (raptor-like reptile) military medic, outcast from a species intruding upon the galaxy
“Thayne Highlander“ [Bruce K.]-male human Jedi padawan close to knighthood, 19 years old; saw master killed by Order 66
“Tark Agros“ [Brian S.]-male Bakuran human pilot and noble, mildly delusional hotshot
“Tharg Thargsson“ [Rich C.G.]-male Gamorrean scoundrel and bounty hunter with connections to the Black Sun syndicate
“Max Power“ (MX-PR) [Rich C.G.]-male protocol droid with secret combat subroutine, ordered to protect Jedi (overrode Order 66); killed by Sith Bela Trepada on Bakura

“From the journals of Ekafti Acomar, 19 B.B.Y. (before the Battle of Yavin):” After fighting Imperial Stormtroopers, Krevaaki zealots, young but dangerous Ssi-ruuk, clones, and Mandalorian mercenaries, my companions and I found ourselves on Nar Shaddaa, the Smuggler’s Moon.

To rescue Tootu Anga, a Duros dancer and mother of Oong Bak, we had posed as the “Seven Deadly Shadows,” assassins intercepted by crime boss Soona the Hutt. We exchanged Soona’s feathered headdress for Tootu, but Tharg Thargsson had charged at kidnapper Bal Grainer and revealed the Rodian fixer to be a hologram.

Three IG-86 sentinel droids had us in their sights as Garolos Banku Nuruolos readied his blaster. I told Oong, Tootu, and Tark Agros to leave. Tharg tried to persuade fellow Gamorrean guards Flarg and Snarku to switch sides.

The three sentinels opened fire, killing Snarku and shaking Tharg. Thayne Highlander ignited his light saber and ran to a larger droid, but it had an energy shield. Ari Sundar reached through the field with her claws to grapple the droid.

Once — and future? — Jedi Garos blasted one IG-86 before switching to his two red light sabers (confiscated from Sith clone Bela-Trepada, but that’s another story). Mechanic Oong tried to rewire the blast doors, but to no avail.

I used Battle Mind to help recent padawan Thayne fight, while Flarg joined Tharg in destroying one droid. Garos destroyed another, and Thayne managed to deflect some blaster fire but was still injured.

As scout Ari held onto the larger droid, Tharg finished it off. Thayne used his light saber to cut through a blast door, and we held our breath as the corridors of Bal Grainer’s palace filled with knockout gas. Garos hoped to pursue his Rodian associate rather than leave another enemy to haunt us, but we were outnumbered and had successfully rescued Tootu Anga.

At least Tharg sent the headdress back to Soona, and we had attempted to fulfill our side of our bargain with the Black Sun criminals. We were all relieved to depart on the B6Z1, the fast ship of Tootu’s betrothed Kass Tani.

Kass dropped us off at Bakura, pilot Tark’s homeworld, where we had left the Lucky Strike. On the way, Thayne had another vision of the Jedi of 25,000 years ago. Aliza, the daughter of Jedi master Djem So, was no longer mute. She told Thayne that she had been saved by a Jedi with tattoos.

Aliza also said that we should follow the Sanctuary Route, from Cattamascar to Chiss space, to save other children and bring forth the prophesied “chosen one,” who would bring balance to the Force. I meditated on Thayne’s words and sensed a great disturbance in the Force from the heart of the galaxy. The Dark Side was spreading from Coruscant.

According to my holocron, the Aurabesh-tattooed Jedi described by Aliza matched a Jedi Knight named Ebo Chun-Wai, who disappeared with Master Pir Jelani in the Unknown Regions 6,000 years ago. I agreed with Thayne that we needed to visit Garos’ home space to find missing clone Ramoca Alara and help the Jedi.

However, we first had to get back to our own ship. Bakuran security officers Capt. Blaine Harris and Anya Foravis had impounded the Lucky Strike in connection with Juris Keel, an android infiltrator we had uncovered.

I used Mind Trick to keep our ship from being searched, and we learned that Keel had been working with insectoid Verpine and had traces of hfredium from mines on G’hro. After some debate, we agreed to help Capt. Harris investigate in return for a refurbished HWK-290 freighter.

The Hawk would enable us to get to G’hro (and Cattamascar) more quickly, while the Lucky Strike would serve as a decoy for Imperial and Black Sun pursuers. Harris provided cover identities and promised potential armaments.

We returned to Cattamascar, where we found the Grand Pelgar Hotel repaired after we had saved it from plunging uncontrollably through the planet’s center. The Zenazi monastery was a scene of carnage. Kurtzen monks had driven off the Krevaaki, but many had died in battle.

Hierophant Inif Cundertol was nowhere to be found, but Ari tended to scholar Moross Sapan’s wounds. He said that Cundertol had fled with a girl during the Krevaaki attack. According to Sapan, the hierophant took her to the Sanctuary Route for her own safety.

In addition, Sapan identified the light saber of Shin-Wu Sorotai, Thayne’s late master, as a force saber from the Force Hounds of the ancient Rakatan Empire, which predated the Old Republic. We dropped the sage off at a medical facility related to the Grand Pelgar on Cattamascar’s surface.

We continued on to G’hro, where scoundrel Garos posed as a trader captain. We saw Conjo fighter craft, red hfredium ore for ship hulls, and the Boku settlement surrounded by forest. Flight controller Carga Elix gave us limited visitation rights.

We were accosted by two fighter pilots, a Bakuran human and an Illwizzt (a red elephant-like species), Brco. They turned out to be associates of Capt. Harris sent to help us, supposedly against piracy. From our past dealings with Bakura’s cabals, we knew that we’d likely find something more complex and sinister.

Brco explained that both he and the Imperial forces were being kept out of the mines, but the local security could be outmaneuvered if Conjo fighters entered four shafts simultaneously. Our best pilots would have to coordinate, while the rest of us conducted reconnaissance.

Brco took Tharg in the lead craft, followed by Garos and Oong. Thayne and I went third, with our best, Tark, and Ari last. We flew into the mountain, narrowly evading sensors and lasers.

Inside the central chamber, we saw a control center rather than mining operations. I recognized it as the place from which Juris Keel had watched Thayne and Shin-wu fight their last battle together before Order 66 was given, outlawing the Jedi.

Ari spotted red-scaled Ssi-ruuk warriors. Our reptilian friend had defected from her people, who were drawing life energy from victims to power ships and droids. Garos, Thayne, and I all sensed three Force-using entities, but they felt unnatural.

We got out of the fighters, and Thayne and Oong checked the security monitors. They saw more Ssi-ruuk troops, Verpine, and a Juris Keel-model android, as well as three large cyborgs powered by enslaved Kurtzen monks. We ran to our ships, but they held us with tractor beams.

Tharg and Brco’s Conjo fighter was disabled, and I assisted Thayne by using our guns. Tark flew around, as Ari destroyed two of the battle droids. Garos and Oong had left but returned to help us fend off the slavers.

Tharg blasted at the footsoldiers, while Brco made hasty repairs to his fighter. Garos and Oong shot at the third cyborg, and we made a narrow escape. Brco transmitted our findings to Capt. Harris, who would make sure that the Bakuran authorities dealt with this growing threat.

While traveling along the Shirotoku Way, Thayne had another vision. Clone Ramoca could be the “chosen one, not born of the father,” so we had to save her to save the galaxy.

According to the holocron, the only other heirloom light saber similar to Shin-wu’s was that of Thayne Cerulian, which had passed to Sifo-Dyas and then to Count Dooku and Gen. Grievous. As Master Yoda might say, mysterious are the ways of the Force.

With Garos’ help, Tark set a course for the Sanctuary Route. I’m glad my friends agreed to help us rescue Ramoca. May the Force be with us — always!

Thanks again, Jason, for a fun game, and I look forward to our return to your “Glassworks” superhero setting in spring of 2014! In the meantime, I hope everyone enjoys my “Vanished Lands” fantasy campaign.