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

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

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

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

“Vistel’s Circus,” Player Character Party 39 in Gene D.’s ” Vanished Lands ” heroic fantasy campaign, using the Basic Fantasy Role-Playing Game, as of autumn 2013:

“Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane” [Beruk A.]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) and stage seer, embittered by experiences in Hesolin’s Magisterium; NGc, Lvl. 5

“Hamfast Hammerfist” [Brian W.]-male Zeda human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 5

“Scully Strongbow” [Sara F.]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 5

“Corwin Windsong” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and former ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 5

“Elsa Fairbottom” [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with owlbear cub “Oswald”; NGc, Lvl. 5

“Tempestade” [Josh C.]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), former roustabout, now a follower of Otih; CGl, Lvl. 5

“Sir Torrel” [Alex W.]-male Hifalendorin human Paladin of Otih, the lord of the sun and justic; LGn, Lvl. 5

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

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

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

Skyrim wallpaper — Sileran in late autumn

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Vistel’s Circus,” Player Character Party 39 in Gene D.’s ” Vanished Lands ” heroic fantasy campaign, using the Basic Fantasy Role-Playing Game, as of autumn 2013:

“Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane” [Beruk A.]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) and stage seer, embittered by experiences in Hesolin’s Magisterium; NGc, Lvl. 5

“Hamfast Hammerfist” [Brian W.]-male Zeda human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 5

“Scully Strongbow” [Sara F.]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 5

“Corwin Windsong” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and former ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 5

“Elsa Fairbottom” [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with owlbear cub “Oswald”; NGc, Lvl. 5

“Tempestade” [Josh C.]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), former roustabout, now a follower of Otih; CGl, Lvl. 5

“Sir Torrel” [Alex W.]-male Hifalendorin human Paladin of Otih, the lord of the sun and justic; LGn, Lvl. 5

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

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

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Update 39.20 — Radius’ return

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Session 39.20, which Rich C.G. hosted in Waltham, Mass., on Monday, 26 August 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 summer 2013:

“Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane” [Beruk A.]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) and stage seer, embittered by experiences in Hesolin’s Magisterium; NGc, Lvl. 4

“Hamfast Hammerfist” [Brian W.]-male Zeda human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 4

“Scully Strongbow” [Sara F.]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 4

“Corwin Windsong” [Bruce K./absent]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and former ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 4

“Elsa Fairbottom” [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with owlbear cub “Oswald”; NGc, Lvl. 4

“Tempestade” [Josh C.]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), former roustabout, now follower of Otih; CGl, Lvl. 4

“Radius” [Jason E.R./cameo]-male Modron Paladin of Primus, lord of Nirvana; exiled to the Prime Material plane; LGn, Lvl. 4

“29 to 30 October 1228 B.C.E.:” The erstwhile performers had found cultists of Krakas, lord of the maelstrom, in the sewers beneath Thadenis. They had rescued would-be sacrifices and hoped to stop a Theft of Sleep ritual.

Hamfast Hammerfist and Elsa Fairbottom go Moradin’s Forge to ask for help from the clergy of the mountain god. On the way, the Zeda human and Hill Dwarf recognize a cloaked figure in the temple district.

He turns out to be Radius, a former traveling companion continuing his lonely quests. The strangely taller Modron Paladin Lays Hands on Hamfast and agrees to help in their fight against the forces of chaos. The Clerics of Moradin give Elsa vials of holy water.

Scully Strongbow, Tempestade, and Giacomo du Vane go to the tower of Otih, lord of the sun and justice. Scully asks boyfriend “Niac” [Mike F./Non-Player Character] for reinforcements to guard the sewer exits. The Wolfen Paladin agrees and gives her six Everburning Torches.

Corwin Windsong is called away by his half-brother, Prince Garamond. The heir to the throne of the (proto-Celtic) human kingdom of Saganim explains that the cultists have retaliated for the fishmongers’ escape by kidnapping people from the Bardic College, including Maeve Gallagher, a priestess of Brijitt and friend of Corwin’s.

Corwin tells the group to return to the sewers without him, as he and Garamond’s pirate crew go to rescue Maeve and the other prisoners. Corwin and Garamond also send word to the Gilded Keep to notify King Edmund II and the city watch.

Elsa, Hamfast, and Radius stop by the Grove of Arbos, where Elsa asks fellow Druids to watch the East Rush River. She considers bringing Oswald, but Hamfast recommends against putting the young owlbear at risk.

Scully and Tempestade bring Giacomo to the Houses of Healing. “Melchior” [Byron V.O./N.P.C.] tells them that the rescued fishmongers are recovering, and he agrees to warn fellow worshippers of Ulandt, lady of rest, to beware of Undead in the sewers. Melchior provides a Cure Serious Wounds potion.

At the Royal Society of Cartography, “Ulrich” [Ted A.H./N.P.C.] accepts Elsa and Tempestade’s latest sewer maps for Thadenis. The adventuring party meets at the Happy Brownie Inn, and the next morning, it heads back beneath the Temple Tor.

Hamfast leads the way, followed by Radius, Tempestade, Elsa, Giacomo, and Scully. They pass through the passages they’ve already explored and come upon two Troglodytes. Monk Tempestade slides between the slimy humanoids to attack from the rear.

Fighter Hamfast charges, and one of the Trogs hits him in return. Ranger Scully holds her fire, waiting for a clear shot. Cleric Elsa prays to Moradin and Gaia/Mekkil, as Paladin Radius draws his longsword. Wizard Giacomo casts Magic Missile but misses.

Tempestade hits one of his reptilian foes but slips, and Hamfast smashes the remaining Troglodyte. Giacomo notes that these were easier to defeat than the hordes previously encountered, suggesting that the cultists have moved deeper beneath the city.

The spelunkers continue east, and Hamfast slides down scree to another tunnel, which appears to have been created by a huge worm. The team crawls before coming to a partially submerged section. The surefooted Monk and Dwarf help the others get through.

The group finds a set of double doors with squid-tentacle handles. Cautious Giacomo casts Invisibility on himself, and burly Scully guards the rear. Stoic Hamfast considers tying a rope to the limp appendages, as nimble Tempestade checks for traps.

Elsa jokes about rock lobsters and sprinkles holy water on them. The tentacles shrivel, and guilless Radius is able to swing the doors open. The Undead squid behind the doors are disposed of without raising any alarm.

The next door south leads to a set of twisted ramps and stairs. Tempestade ventures forth and finds that gravity changes as he walks. Hamfast tries to disbelieve. Flind Scully smells rotting flesh, and Radius is confused. Giacomo and Elsa push forward.

An echoing voice greets Tempestade, who offers tea. The booming Brasscap asks why the intruders have come. Scully spots the Undead Minotaur, who is standing on the opposite side of the ramp from the Barbari human Monk!

Cultist of Krakas — Brasscap, beneath Thadenis

Scully dips wrapped arrowheads in holy water, and Hamfast readies his maul. Tempestade acrobatically leaps around to be on the same plane as Brasscap, who attacks him. Giacomo casts Web, slowing the monster, and Elsa casts Light to blind him.

Radius strikes Tempestade by mistake. Scully fires arrows into the Minotaur, and Hamfast swings wide. Brasscap tears through Giacomo’s webbing, and the mage again misses with Magic Missiles.

The Undead beast gores Tempestade and slashes Radius, and Giacomo begins to Levitate the Minotaur and grappling Monk. Elsa invokes her gods to heal Tempestade and Radius, as Scully’s bow and arrows miss their mark.

Tempestade lets go of Brasscap, whom Giacomo Levitates into the ceiling before dropping to the floor. Elsa castsBless and throws holy water on the unliving creature. Unfortunately, Scully, Hamfast, Tempestade, and Radius all miss.

Giacomo hits the Minotaur with another Magic Missile spell, and Scully beheads him. Hamfast takes the tulwar (+2), and Scully finds a Ring of Water Breathing. Tempestade retrieves Boots of Spider Climbing, and Elsa hacks off Brasscap’s horns.

A door to the north leads to a 20-foot-deep shaft. Tempestade hears sibilant chanting below, so he goes to investigate. Dark eyes glint in the gloom, beckoning him to join them. When the Monk doesn’t return, his companions begin to climb down on ropes.

Hamfast drops an Everburning Torch, revealing three snakelike priests. Scully hurls the Brasscap’s corpse down at them, missing ensorcled Tempestade. Giacomo hurls Magic Missiles, and Hamfast slides down a rope.

Elsa’s Hold Person has no effect on the Ophidians, who cast Entangle at Hamfast. Radius follows Hamfast on a rope, but Scully grabs the Minotaur’s head and jumps down to the stone altar. Giacomo feels itchy as he casts Scorching Ray and Color Spray, to no avail.

Hamfast swings his new sword but is still getting used to the wide curved blade. Elsa casts Protection From Evil and readies her sling, “Seeker.” The serpent folk cast Darkness, which Raidius counters with a Light spell. Tempestade comes to his senses and connects with a flying kick.

Scully slips on the altar, and Invisible Giacomo falls into the unholy shrine and maneuvers. Elsa casts Bless and healsHamfast. Radius hits his opponents, but not as often as he’d like. The Ophidians strike Hamfast and Tempestade with chain whips and poisoned daggers. The cultists also cast Blur and Mirror Image.

Scully dispels one of the images with an arrow, and Giacomo kills two of the followers of Krakas with a Scorching Ray. Elsa’s sling stone dispels the last magical image, and Scully kills the last Ophidian. The Theft of Sleep ritual, which stole rest from the residents of Thadenis in order to wake a slumbering Outsider, is disrupted.

Radius observes that the raiders have found no sign of a high priest or the previously seen Scrags (aquatic Trolls), but Tempestade is content to declare victory and return to the surface. Spellcasters Giacomo and Elsa retrieve scrolls ofCommand Serpents, Disguise Self, Heal, and Spiritual Hammer.

Hamfast and Scully find masterwork daggers, spiked chains, and Unholy water, as well as scraps of parchment with prayers to the lord of the maelstrom. The dungeoneers report to the knights of Otih and priests of Moradin and Ulandt, who plan to secure the sewers….

I hope that everyone enjoyed last night’s game, and Bruce, we missed you! I hope you’ll be able to attend this coming Sunday’s “Vortex: Terra’s Pride” telecom space opera, and note that we’re not meeting on Labor Day.

Jason, it was good to have you back in the “Vanished Lands,” however briefly, despite “Radius’” poor luck with the dice. I look forward to starting your “Star Wars: Dark Times” miniseries (using Savage Worlds) in two weeks!

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Update 39.19 — Challenging the cult

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Session 39.19, which Brian W. hosted in Newton, Mass., on Monday, 19 August 2013:

“Vistel’s Circus,” Player Character Party 39 in Gene D.’s ” Vanished Lands ” heroic fantasy campaign, using theBasic Fantasy Role-Playing Game, as of summer 2013:

“Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane” [Beruk A.]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) and stage seer, embittered by experiences in Hesolin’s Magisterium; NGc, Lvl. 4

“Hamfast Hammerfist” [Brian W.]-male Zeda human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 4

“Scully Strongbow” [Sara F.]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 4

“Corwin Windsong” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and former ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 4

“Elsa Fairbottom” [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with owlbear cub “Oswald”; NGc, Lvl. 4

“Tempestade” [Josh C.]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), former roustabout, now follower of Otih; CGl, Lvl. 4

“Radius” [Jason E.R./departed]-male Modron Paladin of Primus, lord of Nirvana; exiled to the Prime Material plane; LGn, Lvl. 1

“28 October 1228 B.C.E.:” The former performers had followed rumors of cult activity to the sewers of Thadenis, capital of the (proto-Celtic) human kingdom of Saganim. They fought Troglodytes and a Yuan-ti/Sahuagin mutant and rooted out Lethargy Weeds.

After draining a fetid chamber beneath the Temple Tor, Corwin Windsong drops a sunrod down a 15-foot shaft. Giacomo du Vane examines the masterwork dagger taken from the Reptile Folk.

Hamfast Hammerfist ties a rope to a metal ring, and Elsa Fairbottom casts Guidance and Ward. Tempestade climbs down a rope, with Scully Strongbow ready to pull him up at a moment’s notice.

The Monk finds a square room with four doors in the cardinal directions. The others climb down. Corwin finds no traps, but underneath one half-open slab, the Bard does feel a carved spiral, the holy symbol of Krakas, lord of the maelstrom.

Elsa puts runes on the wall in chalk and notes that the eastern passage has the least sewage. Scully spots wear marks on the stone floor. Nimble Tempestade leads the way, followed by Hamfast, Corwin, Giacomo, Elsa, and Scully.

The six spelunkers turn south at the first intersection. Corwin casts Light to dispel an area of magical Darkness. After turning east again, the adventuring party finds a corridor lined by iron spikes. Unfortunate people have been impaled and gutted like fish, presumably by worshippers of Krakas.

Dwarf Elsa notices that the floor is tiled, and Flind Scully points out that the scuff marks continue. Hamfast probes the tiles with his maul, setting off a pressure plate and getting scratched. Giacomo tries to Levitate but fails, so Corwin crawls beneath the spikes to spread out his weight.

The Saganim prince finds a lever to partially retract the spikes, and the group continues northward. Tempestade listens at a door but hears nothing. The Barbari human opens it and is greeted by eight pirates. Quick-thinking Corwin tries to close the door, but a skirmish breaks out.

The human followers of Krakas spread out, with some going to adjacent rooms. Cleric Elsa casts Bane on two of them, and Fighter Hamfast readies his hammer for when the door reopens. Mage Giacomo considers casting Web, then decides to aid Tempestade with Magic Shield.

As Tempestade ducks and moves, Ranger Scully watches the rear with her bow. Swift Corwin greets pirate Ulex with his sword, as Goral hits Hamfast. Pious Elsa calls upon Moradin to Heat Metal on the spikes behind the group, and Melissa is injured while trying to sneak up.

Strong Hamfast smashes Goral, as wily Giacomo casts Magic Missile, killing corsair Omar. Agile Tempestade kicks at Vushin but then tries to parley. Burly Scully rearms the trap, forcing pirate Melissa to retreat. Corwin strikes Igar, and Hamfast fells Vushin. The last two pirates, Elander and Nalmo, flee deeper into the tunnels beneath Thadenis.

The group quickly searches the subterranean dining hall and pantry. Hamfast smashes a squid chandelier, and Giacomo and Corwin recover 300 crowns (gold pieces) in pearls. Scully examines leather armor and rusty cutlasses.

Elsa finds four barrels and hears something thrashing around inside them. Despite warnings from Giacomo and Corwin, the curious Druid opens one and is attacked by eel-like animated entrails (from the eviscerated people in the spiked hallway).

Hamfast smashes the unnatural intestines, and the team decides to leave the other barrels alone. In the next cell to the north is a murky pool. Elsa prays to Gaia/Mekkil to Purify Water, clearing it enough to see four large sea snakes. Giacomo and Scully spike the doors shut behind them.

Perceptive Scully hears muffled cries from the next chamber. Corwin checks for traps and casts Sleep on potential guards. Tempestade opens the heavy door and finds six abductees in manacles and a guard, who is quickly dispatched.

Giacomo finds a set of three keys and a cat o’ nine tails on the human sentry. The six Saganim ex-slaves are filthy but grateful.

Aged Gorton thanks Prince Corwin on behalf of fellow fishmongers Tean and Aiden and fishwives Betty, Bitsie, and Bonnie. Elsa examines the prisoners and finds that they’re in good condition despite several days’ captivity, confirming Hamfast’s suspicion that they were being held as sacrifices for the Theft of Sleep ritual at Samhain.

The infiltrators agree to evacuate the liberated cityfolk, retracing their steps toward the surface. Cultists of Krakas raise an alarm in their warren, and Giacomo casts Web to delay their pursuit. However, three Scrags (aquatic Trolls) begin clawing their way through.

The onetime members of Vistel’s Circus and the freed prisoners run through narrow corridors as more Troglodytes emerge. Giacomo successfully casts Levitate to get his companions and charges closer to the exit. Corwin rushes at one Trog in the circular chamber, and Elsa readies mace “Grimtooth” and sling “Seeker.”

Hamfast falls back to guard the retreat, and Giacomo casts Color Spray, knocking one humanoid unconscious. Scully switches from arrows to her long sword, killing a foe. Tempestade kicks one of the enemies blocking the escape. Slimy Troglodytes hit Hamfast and Giacomo.

Corwin kills another Troglodyte, as does Elsa. Hamfast knocks one creature into a pit, and Giacomo drops two more with Magic Missiles. Tempestade misses, and the cultists’ lack of concern about a dozen casualties is explained when more arrive.

Corwin kills a third enemy, as Elsa aids Scully and Tempestade. Stoic Hamfast swings his maul mightily, while tattooed Giacomo gets charged up from a miscast spell. Scully drops another Trog, and Tempestade helps the fishmongers climb out of the sewer.

As a parting shot, Giacomo casts Scorching Ray. Panting by a grate near the Temple Bridge, the humans, Dwarf, Half-Elf, and Gnoll are relieved that the Troglodytes don’t pursue them into the streets at daylight.

Giacomo recommends resting before returning with reinforcements. Hamfast notes that although Samhain is still a few days away, the summoners now know that they have been discovered.

Furred Scully offers to ask “Sir Niac” [Mike F./Non-Player Character] and the knights of Otih for aid. Tempestade is eager to continue the fight against unholy slavers, but priestess Elsa says she needs time to pray.

Corwin agrees to report to “Melchior Merryman” [Byron V.O.], an agent of Queen Margaret. With soldiers and holy warriors securing their route, the group plans to reenter the labyrinth to defeat the cult of Krakas….

Note that we’re planning on meeting at Rich’s place in Waltham, Mass., next week. The “Vortex: Terra’s Pride”telecom space opera will also resume this coming Sunday!

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Sessions 39.17-18 — Sewer spelunking

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Sessions 39.17 and 18, which Brian W. hosted in Newton, Mass., on 15 July and 5 August 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 summer 2013:

“Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane” [Beruk A.]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) and stage seer, embittered by experiences in Hesolin’s Magisterium; NGc, Lvl. 4

“Hamfast Hammerfist” [Brian W.]-male Zeda human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 4

“Scully Strongbow” [Sara F.]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 4

“Corwin Windsong” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and former ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 4

“Elsa Fairbottom” [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with owlbear cub “Oswald”; NGc, Lvl. 4

“Tempestade” [Josh C.]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), former roustabout, now a follower of Otih; CGl, Lvl. 4

“Radius” [Jason E.R./departed ]-male Modron Paladin of Primus, lord of Nirvana; exiled to the Prime Material plane; LGn, Lvl. 1

“26 to 27 October 1228 B.C.E.:” The erstwhile performers had begun investigating rumors of a new cult in Thadenis, capital of the (proto-Celtic) human kingdom of Saganim. Many residents of the city, including King Edmund II and Scully Strongbow, were suffering from an unnatural fatigue.

Giacomo du Vane goes to the Royal Society for Cartography, where he finds girlfriend Maggie Oakleaf asleep. The mage asks “Ulrich Vandermoor” [Ted A.H./Non-Player Character] for any maps of the sewers.

Hamfast Hammerfist and Tempestade go to the Chalice of Pain, where they find wiry bouncers and throngs dancing to the beat of large drums. Scully joins them at the nightclub, which is between the temples of Nenashen, goddess of pain, and Libotoh, lady of death.

Corwin Windsong casts Change Self to appear as the scout “Black Raven” [Michael C./N.P.C.] to visit the embassy of the nefarious kingdom of Zuromm. The prince talks with Lady Dolista about signs of a rising cult. The seductive Drow (western Dark Elf) delegate denies any direct involvement.

Elsa Fairbottom traces the city’s malaise to the East Rush River, and the Druid talks with a turtle named Earl who notes that plant growth beneath various bridges has changed recently.

At the Chalice of Pain, strong Hamfast gets invited to a lounge by Seamus McGinty [Rich/N.P.C.]. Cloaked Scully watches a large man in a kilt arm-wrestling with scrawny fop Edard McMullen [Bruce/N.P.C.]. Tempestade eagerly joins in on beating the hide drums.

Lady Dolista tells cautious Corwin that a statue at the temple of Gherra, matron of the gods, was recently defaced. The statue’s gender was crudely changed to male. Giacomo isn’t happy to learn that spiral carvings found underneath piers match the holy symbol of Krakas, lord of the maelstrom.

Hamfast directly asks Seamus where cultists would gather in Thadenis. The gentleman suggests new tunnels connecting to the sewer system since the Zuromm sack of about a year ago (in “game time”).

The wanderers regroup at Ghanki’s Gin Pub to compare notes. Tempestade notes that with Samhain approaching, any unholy ritual should take place soon. The adventuring party agrees that the first step to stopping the Theft of Sleep, which is robbing the Saganim people of rest to rouse an Undead or sleeping god, is to unpoison the water supply.

Court wizard Giacomo looks for alchemical treatises, and Hamfast and Corwin ask crown prince Garamond, Corwin’s half-brother, for help from his Lizard Folk pirate crew. Scully acquires Sun Rods from her boyfriend “Sir Niac” [Mike F./N.P.C.], a Wolfen Paladin of Otih, god of the sun and law.

Elsa visits the temples of Gherra and Moradin. The Dwarf petitions the priests of the soul forger to share their brews with the populace until the river is made safe.

When some of Garamond’s Reptile Folk go missing, Ranger Scully follows a trail of blood to Hunter’s Bridge, across Cadebas Stream. Two slimy Troglodytes emerge from the murky water, upsetting the rowboat!

Prince Corwin strikes with his sword and dagger, but Elsa’s Charm Animal spell fails. Scully pulls Giacomo out of the water and sends a message to the Grove of Arbos via Owlicious. The Troglodytes rake at Corwin with their filthy claws.

Hamfast stabs at the creatures with a spear, as Tempestade’s knives fly. Giacomo casts Levitate Foe to isolate one of the Trogs, which Corwin slays. Elsa invokes Gaia to Entangle the other, and Giacomo’s Magic Missile has a delayed blast, inadvertently turning his irises white.

Corwin finishes off the second Troglodyte, and local Druids help Elsa and Scully remove the last of the Lethargy Weeds for burning. Garamond is sad to lose sailors but glad that his city is safer.

At the Gilded Keep, Corwin and Tempestade talk with “Melchior Merryman” [Byron V.O./N.P.C.], a Cleric of Ulandt, lady of rest, and counselor to Queen Margaret. Melchior says that the chaotic cult of Krakas is linked to the dreaded ghost fleet.

Giacomo and Scully go to the docks to ask sailors whether they have seen anything unusual. One named Bart is drowning his sorrows in rum and claims that the entire city is damned. Bart says he was serving on the Angry Angel to the Zarendo Islands, where three cultists among the crew committed mutiny against Capt. Hom.

Lady Dolista tells Corwin that a group as large as a cult would need a space such as a sewer node to gather in secret. Hamfast goes with Elsa to a sewer grate, where the Druid charms rat Benny. He agrees to show them the way through the sewers in return for food and reputation.

Scully and Elsa ask Pfenik, a Brownie at the Grove of Arbos, if there are any Druids who might know more about Krakas and the other sea lords. He mentions Sigmund, a Thallassaquendi (western Sea Elf).

The next morning, the brave band enters the sewers beneath the Temple Bridge. Benny leads the way to a large intersection beneath the Temple Tor before scampering off. As the party edges along a slippery walkway, two Troglodytes rise from the depths, followed by a four-armed Sahuagin/Yuan-ti mutant!

Bard Corwin casts Web, ensnaring one, and Fighter Hamfast takes Giacomo’s walking stick. Druid Elsa invokes Moradin to Heat Metal on the leader’s harness, as sniper Scully hits a Trog with an arrow. The monsters hurl spit and feces.

Giacomo shoots Magic Missiles, while Tempestade lobs sling stones. The Troglodytes struggle in the raw sewage, but the Yuan-ti casts Darkness for cover. Corwin casts Mirror Image and tries to restrain the four-armed monster.

Hamfast switches to his maul, hitting one opponent, as Elsa calls upon Gaia for Light to dispel the darkness. Scully misses, and Giacomo casts Magic Shield. One of the Troglodytes dives to escape the webbing, and the Yuan-ti grabs at Giacomo.

Corwin strikes the enemy leader with his sword, and Hamfast helps Tempestade by killing a Trog. Elsa readies her sling “Seeker” and asks Moradin to Bless her companions. Scully is glad that she has wax in her nostrils and fires at the webbed foe.

Giacomo’s next Levitate and Magic Missile spells fail, but he succeeds on his next tries. The mage is hit by the Sahuagin’s Magic Missiles in return. Corwin and Giacomo finish the skirmish, and they retrieve a Harness of Buoyancy and curved daggers with pearl-inlaid handles.

Elsa heals Giacomo’s burns, as the group catches its breath. Corwin ties a rope around his waist and dives, finding a hidden hatch. He opens it, and the water starts to drains out, pulling in Hamfast, who was holding the rope.

The former members of Vistel’s Circus feel a blast of warm, dry air and prepare to face the cultists deep beneath Thadenis….

Our adventures will continue next Monday, 19 August 2013! Those of you playing spellcasters should probably check your character records on Obsidian Portal to make sure that their lists are up to date.

While I’m sorry that we’ve had to skip some “Vortex: Terra’s Pride” telecom space opera sessions, we’ll resume later this month. Josh, I hope your “Steam Wars” game wraps up well, and Jason, I look forward to your “Star Wars: Dark Times” miniseries (using Savage Worlds) this fall.