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

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

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
“Ember Talon” [Sara F.]-female Crane Hengeyokai Wu (shapeshifting Druid), actually a young gold dragon banished from the Celestial Court; NGl, Lvl. 2
“Saigo Kasugi” [Bruce K.]-male Bamboo Spirit Folk Samurai (eastern Sylvan Elf Cavalier) discreetly serving his daimyo; LNg, Lvl. 2
“Soske’ Tiatoshe” [Geoff C.]-male Shengtese Tian Shukenja (eastern human Cleric), priest of Shang-ti and animist from the Phoenix Clan, prophesied to do great things; LNg, Lvl. 2
“Moon Jung-mo” [Dexter V.H.]-male Nannuattan Ninja (Msamaki, eastern Dark Elf Assassin) who has left the Shadow’s Claw clan and is posing as a River Spirit Folk Yakuza (eastern Grey Elf Rogue); LNg, Lvl. 2

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

Angry nature spirit — Angry spirit charges

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” Session 40.8 — New in town

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands” Session 40.8, which was held on Sunday, 12 January 2014:

“Souji Nobuto ‘Sonny’ Yoshimitsu” [Beruk A.]-male Shengtese Tian Kensai (eastern human weapon master) from a dishonored house in the Lion Clan, specializing in chain weapons; LNg, Lvl. 2

“Toshiharu ‘Toshi’ Sembutsu” [Byron V.O.]-male Shan Sao Wu Jen (eastern Halfling Wizard) from the Tiger Clan with a destiny; NGc, Lvl. 2

“Ember Talon” [Sara F.]-female Crane Hengeyokai Wu (shapeshifting Druid), actually a young gold dragon banished from the Celestial Court; NGl, Lvl. 2

“Saigo Kasugi” [Bruce K.]-male Bamboo Spirit Folk Samurai (eastern Sylvan Elf Cavalier) discreetly serving his daimyo; LNg, Lvl. 2

“Soske’ Tiatoshe” [Geoff C.]-male Shengtese Tian Shukenja (eastern human Cleric), priest of Shang-ti and animist from the Phoenix Clan, prophesied to do great things; LNg, Lvl. 2

“Moon Jung-mo” [Dexter V.H.]-male Nannuattan Ninja (Msamaki, eastern Dark Elf Assassin) who has left the Shadow’s Claw clan and is posing as a River Spirit Folk Yakuza (eastern Grey Elf Rogue); LNg, Lvl. 2

“24 to 31 March 1227 B.C.E.:” The adventuring party had to fight its way out of a Gokuri outpost because Byong Sudae, its Nannuattan commander, was once a rival of diplomat Lady Yun Aei-Yong. The group narrowly escaped and returned to the Balef River.

The boatmen push the three barges southward, away from Dulthor. Saigo notices someone trying to keep out of sight and keep up on the western shore. Ember shifts to crane form to observe. She sees two Tsucharim (Mongol-style) human scouts and flies back to her companions to report.

Soske’ reassures Saigo that the two men won’t be able to keep up with the boats. He then serves tea while Jung-Mo provides impromptu entertainment by singing and dancing. Sonny and Toshi talk with Lady Yun, who says that pursuit is less likely as they travel eastward toward Sogewa, capital of the Principality of Silado/Tong Sheng.

After a day’s travel, the emissary and her escorts arrive at the walled town of Shang Tao. Su Yuwei and the other boatmen unload the horses and Jung-Mo’s carriage (discreetly containing Lady Yun and her Draconian guard Oh Kum-Ja). They bid farewell, since the team plans to head inland.

The party checks into the Ouzino Guest House. “River Spirit Folk” Jung-Mo and Shengtese human Soske’ share a room, but the former goes out to gamble while the latter looks for sake. Shengtese Sonny shares lodgings with Shan Sao Toshi, who builds a nest to sleep in.

Rather than spend more time with cloaked Lady Yun and Oh Kum-Ja, Hengeyokai Ember gets a room to herself, as does Bamboo Spirit Folk Saigo. The group rests after its recent battles.

The next morning, the wanderers take turns guarding Lady Yun and exploring Shang Tao. Wu-Jen Toshi and Samurai Saigo visit Ii Yoshiyuki, a Korobokuru (eastern Dwarf) weapon smith.

Sonny walks by barracks by stone gate. The Kensai buys drinks for guards Yang Kong and Lo Jaini. The male Bushi (pikeman) is only too happy to chat about recent wars, while the female Ashigaru (archer) is more reticent, if less able to hold her liquor.

Wu Ember and Shukenja Soske’ attend to the steeds, including Toshi’s donkey Wako and Saigo’s warhorse Black Wind. Merchant Jung-Mo continues to flirt with Ember and spar verbally with Sonny.

Soske’ also asks Lady Yun and Oh Kum-Ja if there’s anything they want, since their movements are restricted in the human town. The Nannuattan asks for whatever is a local delicacy, and her Draconian follower requests a whole chicken.

Saigo trades excess knives, swords, and naginatas (pole arms) with Ii Yoshiyuki for arrows for the party. Toshi asks about shurikens (throwing stars), and the smith sends him to one Choi Gyong-Si. Saigo also asks where he can find a geisha and is referred to the “Wolf’s Den.”

With his priestly robes and staff, Soske’ is unsurprised by the friendly reception he receives in the marketplace. He haggles for charhar-aina (plates to wear over other armor) and a buckler (small shield). Fellow spellcaster Ember decides to hold off on buying lamellar armor, but fortuneteller Marala Soniakova and some jewelry catch her eye.

Toshi stops by the Ouzino Guest House to get Jung-Mo. They track down Choi Gyong-Si, who turns out to be a Bakemono (eastern Goblin) dung sweeper. They exchange not-so-subtle hints, and Choi takes the duo into an alley to show them his wares, including shurikens and Whippets (incendiary boomerangs).

Toshi then heads back to keep watch on Lady Yun, whom the party suspects of causing trouble on behalf of Queen Kagejusko. Sonny climbs to a quiet rooftop to practice with his chains.

On the recommendation of innkeeper Dao Ying-Ye, Soske’ buys freshly braised lamb and a chicken from butcher Yang Baio. He brings the food back to the guest house, where Jung-Mo and Ember return just in time for a lunch feast.

On his way to the “Wolf’s Den,” Saigo encounters triple-breasted Oni (Ogre Mage) Ahn Myng-Sun. He resists her amorous advances but buys her a drink. Saigo eventually meets Ikeda Hiroko, a River Spirit Folk musician.

From his perch, Sonny notices a group of Shengtese soldiers riding from the local lord’s tower. They ride about the town, and Sonny recognizes that they’re retracing his party’s steps. The martial artist jumps from roof to roof to warn those at the inn.

Rather than expose Lady Yun to awkward questions or worse, Soske’ stalls a guard at the door to their suite. Jung-Mo slips away and retrieves Saigo, who reluctantly rejoins the group.

A sentry explains that the visitors are summoned to an audience with “Jin Young” [John E./Non-Player Character], the local lord. They take their time getting to the tower. Saigo and Soske’ explain their mission to escort the representative of the kingdom of Gokuri to the capitals of Tong Sheng and Zedu.

Jin Young doesn’t believe that Gokuri will honor any truce with its neighbors, but he says that he’ll obey Gen. Shin Kyong-tsu and Duke Kou Fei Seng’s wishes. The local ruler considers attacking weakened Dulthor, but the wanderers recommend against prolonging border warfare.

Jin Young orders his troops to escort the visitors back to the Ouzino Guest House. Jung-Mo and Sonny keep a low profile, as do Lady Yun and Oh Kum-Ja. They prepare to leave the next morning.

Toshi and Soske’ pay their respects to the ancestors after talking to Phoenix Clan priest Zhan-Shi Yun at shrines to the Path of Order. Toshi later visits herbalist Lee Xiumin and is referred to Shan Sao woodworker Honda Maiko.

Ember buys a silver bracelet to match her magical necklace and accompanies Toshi to Honda Maiko’s shop. They buy ornately carved tiger and dragon talismans, which Toshi promises to animate. Meanwhile, Saigo goes back to Hiroko at the “Wolf’s Den.”

Among other things, Soske’ acquires the following supplies from River Spirit Folk trader Hojo Masaharu, whom he Blesses in thanks:

Bedrolls, blankets, and tents
Feed for the animals, wicker baskets
Food and water, six days’ worth for eight people (48 days)
Tools: axe, crowbar, rake, shovel, tinder box

After the party leaves Shang Tao, Soske’ suggests heading across the eastern Plains of Sathendo south to Chin Mok rather than east to Chung Kwang Shui, as the group had originally planned and told people….

It was good to see everyone online, and I’m glad to see the “A New Dawn” party back on the road! I also look forward to seeing some of you at tonight’s “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” face-to-face game or at next week’s character-generation session for Jason E.R.’s “Glassworks: the Devil’s Den” superhero scenario (using Icons).

“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:

“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: 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.

“Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” Session 40.5 — Bones and blobs

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands” Session 40.5, which was held on Sunday, 22 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. 1

“11 to 15 March 1227 B.C.E.:” During a stop at the village of Wai Shih in the Balef River Valley, the team escorting Gokuri diplomat Lady Yun Aei-Yong fought human bandits and an Oni. The would-be assassins apparently had orders to intercept the party.

Sonny and Saigo have been infected by rats summoned by Oni (Ogre Mage) Simikage Haruhiko, so Ember gets local shaman Kajuji Manabu, a Carp Hengeyokai, to help Soske’ treat their wounds.

Ember also recommends that innkeeper Ho Sze be reimbursed for damages to the “Death’s Deck” tavern. Saigo deducts 10 tael (20 gold pieces) for Ho Sze from the Oni’s purse, leaving 23 g.p. for each party member — and Oh Kum-Ja, Lady Yun’s Draconian guard.

Toshi and company look at maps for potential routes from Wai Shih to Sogewa, the capital of Tong Sheng. They could travel southeast to the town of Beitien and cross the wide Plains of Sathendo, or they could take the Balef River farther south before turning east.

Although the river marks the border with the kingdom of Gokuri and the barbaric Gusorin Confederation, the group reasons that it would be faster than hiking overland, especially where there are few roads. After resting for a night, the group reboards its three barges and heads toward Shang Tao.

The travelers are relieved to have an uneventful day, as the spring thaw carries their boats. At the intersection of the Balef and Hei Ho rivers, they find a set of buildings on stilts at the edge of a marsh, as Soske’ predicted.

Moon Jung-Mo stays with Lady Yun, Oh Kum-Ja, the boatmen, and the horses, while the rest of the escort enters the “Sandy Corner.” Samurai Saigo is gruffly greeted by Tan Shude, a Shengtese human innkeeper from whom he acquires rooms for 2 g.p. per night.

Kensai Sonny walks around outside to check the perimeter. Wu Jen Toshi looks for obvious magic and casts a Clean cantrip on the rooms. Wu Ember notices some Bakemono (eastern Goblins) arguing over their tab with a barmaid.

Soske’ chats with a few fishermen. Jiki Yuwei claims that nothing out of the ordinary has happened recently, but his friends are evasive. The Shukenja casts Elemental Sight for psychometry and sees that their goods are scavenged. Jiki eventually warns Soske’ to stay indoors at night.

Sonny notices five armored skeletons at the corners of the “Sandy Corner’s” roof. Ember and Soske’ help Toshi clean the rooms, and Saigo agrees to bring Lady Yun, Oh Kum-Ja, and the boatmen in for the night.

Trader Jung-Mo gets provisions for the crew and horses as the others examine the roof. Sonny lowers a chain to help Soske’ and Saigo climb up, while Toshi and Ember shift to avian form together for first time.

Although the skeletal warriors’ armor and weapons are rusted, their posture and lack of decomposition are unnatural. As a crane Hengeyokai, Ember talks with a crow that’s interested in shiny things such as eyeballs. In return for a silver piece, it warns her of giant spiders in the swamps.

Baza (bird) Toshi casts Detect Magic , confirming that the skeletons and crane are magical. Soske’ senses something amiss and later uses his Phoenix Clan status to question Tan Shude. The innkeeper tells of how, many years ago, a military unit camped nearby.

Its commander had stolen money from his lord, who had summoned spirits to pursue the troops. Although five men fought honorably in ignorance, the thief escaped, leaving his followers to die. The skeletal soldiers are cursed to stand watch until their commander or the lost treasure returns.

Before dark, Toshi and Ember conduct aerial reconnaissance in bird form. They see webs at the edge of the marsh and a rocky outcropping that could be a cave mouth. They return and report to their companions.

Soske’, Jung-Mo, and Lady Yun are interested in helping the locals, but Sonny, Toshi, and Saigo say their mission to safely convey the Nannuattan emissary takes precedence. Ember is curious and sympathizes with Lady Yun’s restlessness.

Over a dinner of fish stew and mulled wine, Saigo sets watches for the night. Hengeyokai Ember and Shan Sao Toshi take first watch, followed by Shengtese human Sonny and Bamboo Spirit Folk Saigo. Shengtese Soske’ and Jung-Mo are set to take the third.

The first watch is quiet, but Sonny and Saigo hear movement during their shift. They wake their companions as the armored skeletons climb down from their perches. Soske’ casts Light , and Ember peeks out but sees nothing.

Toshi heads down the creaky stairs, followed by Saigo. They see a skeleton shoved into a pillar by an unseen foe. Sonny listens and readies his chains. Soske’ checks on Lady Yun and heads for the front door.

Ember hears sloshing and Wild Shapes into a bat to get a better view of the fight outside. The Druid sees pseudopods bursting from the water at the skeletal warriors, as well as the remains of a night watchman.

Soske’ casts Magic Weapon on his bow. The Cleric’s first arrow gets stuck in the giant amoeba. Martial artist Sonny looks for an oil lamp before heading outside.

Toshi shifts into bird form and flies to the roof for a better view. The Wizard and Ember return to humanoid form to help their companions. Samurai Saigo hacks at one of the aberrations with his katana and dodges acid-dripping extrusions.

The skeletons fight on all sides of the “Sandy Corner,” avoiding envelopment but taking damage. Soske’ uses tongs to grab a burning log from a fireplace in the inn, and Sonny wraps an oil-soaked rag around his chain. Together, they prepare flaming arrows to fire at the oozes.

Toshi casts Elemental Burst (water) on one amoeba, and Ember casts Entangle on another. Unfortunately, their spells have little effect as the group joins the melee on the deck. Saigo slices up Sonny and Toshi’s opponent but is slammed and burned.

One ooze hits Ember while others trade blows with the skeletons. Soske’ rips off his shirt, ties it to his staff with a bowstring, dips it in oil, and lights it on fire. Sonny swings his flaming chain at an amoeba taking an oil flask to Ember.

Toshi casts Elemental Burst (air) on Soske’s foe, and Ember casts Water to Wine in the river around the oozes. Saigo maneuvers to aid Soske’. The skeletons destroy one amoeba, leaving two remaining.

Soske’ lights the wine with his staff, and Sonny dumps the remaining oil onto an ooze. Toshi casts Light to aid his companions, as Ember throws fire but misses. Saigo’s sword continues to do some damage, but the skeletons do better.

Sonny grabs the firebrand from Soske’ and destroys the amoeba near Ember. The last ooze misses Saigo and is ripped apart by the skeletons, which then look at the adventuring party with empty eye sockets.

Soske’ bows to the Undead warriors and goes into the “Sandy Corner” rather than fight them. The rest of the group follows his lead and closes the doors….

Please remember to update your P.C. records to second level. Dexter, we missed you last night! Weather and traffic permitting, I hope to be home in time for our next virtual session, on Sunday, Dec. 29. I also expect the “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” face-to-face campaign to continue on Monday, Dec. 30, at Rich C.G.’s place in Waltham, Mass.

In the meantime, I look forward to wrapping up Jason E.R.’s “Star Wars: Dark Times”miniseries and to returning to his “Glassworks” noir superhero setting. May all of you have a happy holiday season!