“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.

“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!