“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Session 25 — Setting sail with Capt. Scarlet

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Session 39.25, which Brian W. hosted in Newton, Mass., on Monday, 4 November 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

From Ships and the Sea — Three Elven hulls

“25 December 1228 to 4 January 1227 B.C.E.:” The former circus performers and their allies had slayed three out of four giants attacking the Saganim (proto-Celtic) port of Sileran. Brig. Liam Muldoon declared that the threat of attack by the ghost fleet had passed for now.

Giacomo du Vane returns to Sileran’s damaged Magisterium (magic school/library) to study the Contact Spirit spell. Hamfast Hammerfist recuperates at the forge of Nersago (Vulkan/Moradin) and asks listens sailors’ rumors at various bars. Scully Strongbow acquires Tanglefoot and hollow arrows from alchemist Muriel Tekla at Tobin’s Emporium.

Tempestade considers going back to the Blackhorse Woods to ask the Grugach (Wild Elves) about their deity of time, but it would take too long. Instead, the time-displaced martial artist eats berries from Druid Malcom Wickham and hallucinates.

Corwin Windsong spends most of his time around the winter solstice with kinsman Cormac ap Morgan, the local earl, and Nydarelle, an Alvari (Sylvan Elf) Bard. The Saganim prince also asks Father Mathew at the temple of Edillon, lord of the winds, to restore Giacomo’s unnaturally colored eyes or hands.

Elsa Fairbottom gives generous donations to the temples of Nersago, Otih, and Gheket. The Dwarf nature priestess also acquires an enchanted shield (+1) and a wand of Cure Light Wounds. Sir Torrel reports to Father Bran at the tower of Otih. The priest of the lord of the sun and justice recommends that the Paladin go on a quest for a Holy Sword.

Still worried about his tattoo, which might be connected to the “Mad Mage,” Giacomo inquires about antimagical solutions. Hamfast sends some money north to his family in the Zeda kingdom and spends the rest on alcohol.

Scully spends time outdoors with owl “Owlicious” and Owlbear “Oswald.” Once Tempestade recovers from the “magic berries,” he huddles in the Moonbeam Inn for warmth. Corwin collects money from his friends and secretly takes Hamfast’s maul one night to be enchanted. The Bard also buys a Potion of Invisibility.

Elsa studies tomes on the Undead and the barbaric port of Gisar, where there is supposedly an obelisk that can help Tempestade return to his home to rescue fellow slaves. She also spends time with fellow Dwarf exile Burdag.

Sir Torrel keeps a wary eye on Megara Anteia, an Achaean (Mycenaean Greek) priestess of Gheket, as she rebuilds a temple to the mistress of witchcraft. Elsa calls her companions together to discuss plans for Falit, capital of the Ebir Sheikdom.

Tempestade hopes to ask at the city’s three towers of sorcery — Alchemy, Sight, and Wind — for information on his distant homeland. Giacomo notes that the Suthern (proto-Arabic) humans of the Halmed Desert are more comfortable with magic and the Djinn than most.

Hamfast says he just wants to make money. Scully wants to avoid other canine humanoids, such as Anpur (Jackal folk), Wolven, or Gnolls (Hyena folk). Elsa worries about “Capt. Jack Kildare’s” [Randy K.M./Non-Player Character] Undead pirates and rumors of evil Druids.

Corwin, Sir Torrel, Giacomo, and Elsa agree on the need to gather more information about the giant attack, the ghost fleet, and connections to the cult of Krakas, lord of the maelstrom. But first, the onetime “Vistel’s Circus” members must obtain passage from Sileran to Falit.

Hamfast’s drinking buddies tell him that the Dreaming Death, Northern Wind, Shameful Hoard, and Stormy Insanity are well-armed, if not particularly trustworthy. Scully hears that the fishing vessel Gull’s Wing and trade ship Friendly Moon may not be large enough to accommodate her group.

Corwin’s contacts recommend the Brave Duchess, Wise Chariot, White Surf, Clever Mare, and Cloud Challenger, which are approved by Saganim’s royal navy but are not very swift. Elsa asks about buying a ship but learns that it would cost many thousands of crowns (gold pieces).

The adventuring party eventually settles on the Foamrunner, a Thalassaquendi (western Sea Elven) schooner. Elsa talks with first mate Valagon and agrees to return at dusk to meet his captain. Passage would cost 8 g.p. per person.

The travelers find the white Foamrunner lit by lanterns, with an elegant dinner table set out. Valagon introduces Capt. Scarlet, a lithe Sea Elf with a red sash and a saber. She introduces the rest of her crew.

Sir Torrel gives a blessing before the meal. Giacomo gets drunk from a rare Fey wine, but the Elves don’t seem to mind. Hamfast chats with laconic oarsmen Delrembor and Caeriseth and oarswoman Thenasquel before hauling Giacomo back to the inn.

Thanks to her training with “Sir Niac” [Mike F./N.P.C.], Scully can verify that the Foamrunner, which has outriggers in addition to a sleek hull and triangular sails, is seaworthy. Young Erasol and Cildor hang on every word of Tempestade’s travels, but they don’t recognize the oceans he describes.

Corwin flirts with Muriel, the rudder controller, and Araswe and Fingonel, female sailors usually on watch. Elsa gives Capt. Scarlet and Valagon bottles of liquor and compares notes with cook Curufinwe. She also asks for a special cabin for Oswald.

The next morning, the passengers bring their possessions aboard, and theFoamrunner sets sail southward. Capt. Scarlet shows Elsa and company charts of possible courses. One crosses the Bay of Ethalgo and passes through the Nali Strait. It is more direct and faster, but there is more risk of encountering corsairs from the Garku Nasit.

The other route goes east into the Sea of Nagendwa, with a stop at Emein Island before reaching Falit. There’s a greater chance of storms or pirates, but Capt. Scarlet is confident that she can outpace and outmaneuver any rivals, so the group chooses the seaward path.

The first day passes uneventfully. Fingonel spots a Dubwana (Hobgoblin) bireme to starboard, but it is too far away to be a threat. Wizard Giacomo needs Curufinwe’s help to recover from his hangover, and Fighter Hamfast and Paladin Torrel takes turns at the rigging and oars.

Bard Corwin plays his mandolin and continues flirting with Muriel. Druid Elsa and Ranger Scully communicate with a racing pod of dolphins, while Monk Tempestade enjoys the sunshine.

On the second day, clouds fill the sky, and Araswe notices something sinister. A ship flying the skull and crossbones bears down from the east, and Capt. Scarlet orders evasive maneuvers.

Corwin asks Valagon how he can help. Hamfast and Sir Torril join the crew on the oars, as the catamaran sharply turns and tilts out of the waves.

Giacomo readies offensive spells such as Fireball and Lightning Bolt, and Elsa watches for signs of the ghost fleet. Sniper Scully watches the approaching craft with a spyglass. Tempestade uses his Ring of Jumping and Boots of Spider Climb in the rigging to help unfurl sails.

Tense moments pass as the pirates close the distance, but the Foamrunner manages to change tack and make for the port of Naira. The other vessel breaks off its pursuit.

Scully and Tempestade stay with the Elven ship, which sends a few crew members ashore for supplies and brief leave. The would-be heroes head to the “Wobbling Crane” tavern, where they find that most of the patrons are humanoid rather than human.

Elsa is pleasantly surprised to find that the proprietor is a River Dwarf named Mathilda. They share a “Banyan Brew” before a card game catches their attention. Meanwhile, Rib Gnawer, a Sea Hag (aquatic Troll), takes a romantic interest in Hamfast.

Elsa and Sir Torrel sit down at a table with Bleeding Ulcer [Bruce/N.P.C.], the Merrow (aquatic Ogre) captain of the Undertow, and Kouracos Velthin [Beruk/N.P.C.], the Sahuagin (Shark man) captain of the Tentacled Mother.

Corwin divides his attention between belly dancers and the card game, which uses suits of clams, squid, eels, and whales. Hamfast chats with Rib Gnawer, first mate on the Undertow. She explains that several undersea races use sailing ships to transport trade goods and interact with surface dwellers.

Capt. Velthin beats Elsa during the first hand, and Bleeding Ulcer wins over Kouracos in the second. The stakes escalate, as the gamblers put coins, gems, and pearls on the sticky table. Elsa draws better cards than Kouracos and Bleeding Ulcer in the next rounds before her group makes a cautious withdrawal.

Back at the small harbor, Elsa reimburses Sir Torrel, and the passengers join the crew of the Foamrunner in keeping watch through the night. During the second watch, Elsa spots a man pushing a wheelbarrow across the deserted docks.

The well-spoken man introduces himself as “Barry” and explains that he is bringing rich soil back to his gardens. Sir Torrel’s Detect Evil gives him the sense that Barry would like to feed interlopers’ blood to his carnivorous plants. The Paladin warns the Druid against visiting the gardens, but Elsa’s interest is piqued….

I hope that everybody enjoyed our latest fantasy game, which will resume on Nov. 18. In the meantime, please make sure that your characters’ possessions are up to date on Obsidian Portal.

I look forward to wrapping up Geoff C.’s “Strange Tales From Chicago” superhero miniseries this coming Sunday, as well as to continuing Jason E.R.’s “Star Wars: Dark Times” scenario next Monday!

The “Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” telecom group should now start on Nov. 17. Let the Game Masters know your availability for late November.

“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:

“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 39.14 — Loosing the siren

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Session 39.14, which Brian W. hosted in Newton, Mass., on Monday, 3 June 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 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”), roustabout; 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

“8 to 9 March 1228 B.C.E.:” Members of the performing troupe continued their investigations into corruption in Thadenis, capital of the (proto-Celtic) human kingdom of Saganim. The Lizard Folk pirates of Prince Garamond guarded the circus in the Agora (market square).

Corwin Windsong, revealed as Prince Berek, seeks to clear his name before he can challenge his half-brother, Prince Daven, on his right to succeed King Edmund II. First, the Bard must prove that he didn’t kill Lady Katarina, his onetime tutor and lover, as well as the wife of Lord Dalek, a Tiefling (demon-touched) Wizard and royal adviser.

Elsa Fairbottom and Tempestade go to the tower of Otih. “Uldor” [Thomas K.Y.], a helpful Cleric of the lord of the sun and justice, referred them to the temple.

The Dwarf Druid and human Monk meet “Sir Niac Eden” [Mike F./Non-Player Character], a Wolfen Paladin. Elsa gives a generous donation of 200 sovereigns (gold pieces) and asks Niac if sages can help divine what truly happened the night of Katarina’s disappearance.

Elsa explains how a Doppleganger recently attacked the king, how her companions found a varun (Underdark cat) butchered in the palace, and how Corwin talked with Drow (western Dark Elves) and Duergar (Gray Dwarves) at the Zuromm embassy. Niac replies that Corwin must come to the tower of Otih “for purification” and to verify his innocence.

Giacomo du Vane, Hamfast Hammerfist, and Scully Strongbow return to the Gilded Keep on the Isle of Valor. The Hifalendorin mage and Zeda Fighter question members of the castle staff about the night of Katarina’s presumed murder. The albino Gnoll uses her keen nose to sense nervousness and deception.

The trio first questions cook Skilti, who saw young Prince Berek run by in a panic on a dark and stormy night. A trail of blood was found near Dalek and Katarina’s chambers, and Berek’s flight from the city was interpreted as a sign of guilt. Like Princess Catherine, Berek’s partying younger sister, old Skilti believes that Corwin loved not too wisely but too well.

“Melchior Merryman” [Byron V.O.], a Cleric of Ulandt, lady of rest, sends gifts to the travelers, including masterwork arrows for Corwin. Hill Dwarf Fighter “Gug Trushin” [Kai-Yin H.] helps watch the circus wagons and tents.

Meanwhile, Corwin goes to the Bardic College, where he finds fellow musician Maeve Gallagher. She reports that Lord Dalek is rumored to be wooing Princess Catherine. Prince Berek asks the priestesses of Brijitt, goddess of fire and poetry, to help defend his reputation to the Saganim people.

Giacomo, Hamfast, and Scully talk with Gudrun, a chambermaid who professes no love for “spoiled princelings.” She said she was bringing laundry from the royal chambers. Elsa and Fighter Hamfast learn that Berek was seen running with blood on his hands and that Katarina’s body was never found. Ranger Scully smells salt water on Gudrun, who claims that she prefers to eat her favorite fish away from other servants.

Sir Niac agrees to help Elsa, but he notes that Lord Dalek’s chambers are likely magically shrouded. Tempestade (who had tried to make a berimbau) seems more curious about how Otih’s followers oppose slavery and about joining their order than about Corwin’s fate.

In the Gilded Keep, Giacomo, Hamfast, and Scully question Aella, a pious servant. After some cajoling, they persuade her to recount what she saw on the night of Katarina and Berek’s disappearances from the palace. Aella says that she saw Gudrun running in the opposite direction of most people — including Berek — on lower level where she wouldn’t normally need to be.

Because Aella fears for her own safety, the trio takes her to the temple of Otih, but not before asking Morgaine, handmaiden to Queen Margaret and Melchior’s wife, to keep an eye on Gudrun.

Corwin confesses his sins to Sir Niac, including how he killed Adric Thumon, the squire to Sir Banor Finney who was running a silver mine operated by Goblin slaves. Thumon had surrendered, but Corwin and company killed him anyway and freed the slaves, who then went with Dubwana (Hobgoblins) from the Garku Nasit.

The knights of Otih are impressed by Prince Berek’s honesty and agree to support him in both his trial for Lady Katarina’s presumed murder and his challenge of the ambitious Prince Daven’s ascension to heir apparent.

Corwin, Niac, and friends listen to Aella’s story and send messages to Prince Garamond and Maeve telling them that they have testimony exonerating Berek. They then take a rowboat to the Isle of Valor to search the area beneath the Gilded Keep.

Hamfast and Tempestade work the oars, while Scully and Niac search the rocks. Giacomo and Corwin impatiently wait with Aella at the temple of Otih because Prince Berek is banned from the palace until his trial.

Elsa spots a pile of fish bones on a rock. As the boat pulls close, Tempestade sees a cave opening behind the rock. Scully leads the way, and Hamfast lights a torch. They see movement, followed by a woman’s wail.

Scully and Tempestade are momentarily stunned, but Hamfast and Elsa press forward on the slick rocks. Sailor Niac flirts with Scully and secures the boat. Hamfast draws a knife and tries to jump on the woman [Beruk/Non-Player Character] before she crawls away, but he misses. The investigators realize with horror that her legs (or fins) have been hacked off.

Ensorcelled, Scully shoves Hamfast away from the crippled siren, whose strawberry blond hair reminds everyone of Corwin’s description of Katarina. Elsa casts Protection From Evil on Hamfast and gives him her mace.

The woman slashes at the burly human with a cutlass, and Niac readies his club. Hamfast tries to subdue the screaming woman, and Elsa prays to Gaia and Moradin for Guidance. Hamfast knocks out the malnourished mermaid and takes her to the boat, where saddened Scully wraps her in a blanket.

They return to Otih’s tower, where Berek is shocked to see how Katarina has been magically transformed and crippled. The Paladins of Otih take the former captive to the Houses of Healing so that the Clerics of Ulandt, lady of rest, can attend to her many wounds.

Sometime later, King Edmund and Queen Margaret preside over the trial of Prince Berek. Among the attendees are Lord Dalek and Lord Stefan Sable, whose house is suspected of necromancy. Dalek repeats his charge of murder against Berek, noting that the prince fled after Lady Katarina’s disappearance and that his bloody handprints were found.

Giacomo, acting as Corwin’s counsel, points out that the evidence is circumstantial. Aella testifies that as angry as Lord Dalek now seems, he was calm after the blood trail was found near his quarters.

Melchior and Sir Niac unwrap Katarina, causing the crowd to gasp. Giacomo observes that only a few spellcasters in all of Saganim would be powerful enough to permanently transform her, and he accuses Gudrun of working with Dalek and feeding on her.

Hamfast holds furious Corwin from attacking Dalek, and King Edmund shares his son’s righteous anger. Guards haul unrepentant Dalek and Gudrun to the dungeon to await the headsman. Giacomo recommends that they be searched for magical implements, and Scully and Elsa are relieved that justice has prevailed. Scully hugs Corwin.

Melchior says that now that Dalek’s magic is waning, Lady Katarina has only days to live at most. Corwin mourns for his lost love, even as Scully seeks out Niac’s company and the circus prepares for its next performance….

Welcome back, Josh, and I hope that everyone enjoyed the dramatic game! It’s interesting that we’re wrapping up major chapters in both the “Vanished Lands” and the “Vortex: Terra’s Pride” telecom space opera. Note that your Player Characters have leveled up — I’ll double-check adjustments by our next session.

I look forward to Rich’s Star Wars: Edge of the Empire playtest next Monday, and I’m sorry that I’ll be missing Josh’s Dungeon World one-shot later this month. In the meantime, take it easy, -Gene

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Update 39.12 — Mystery meat at the Gilded Keep

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Session 39.12, which Brian W. hosted in Newton, Mass., on Monday, 15 April 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 2013:

“Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane” [Beruk A./absent ]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) and stage seer, embittered by experiences in Hesolin’s Magisterium; NGc, Lvl. 3

“Hamfast Hammerfist” [Brian W.]-male Zeda human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 3

“Scully Strongbow” [Sara F.]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 3

“Corwin Windsong” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 3

“Elsa Fairbottom” [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with owlbear cub “Oswald”; NGc, Lvl. 3

“Tempestade” [Josh C./departed ]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), roustabout; CGl, Lvl. 2

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

“4 to 5 March 1228 B.C.E.:” Some of the wanderers had gotten royal permission to investigate possible corruption in Thadenis, capital of the (proto-Celtic) human kingdom of Saganim. However, the ceremony designating Prince Daven as heir apparent was interrupted by his half-brothers, Garamond and Berek (Corwin Windsong’s true identity).

After a performance in the Agora (market square), the adventurers reconvene in “Ghanki’s Gin Pub,” where they decide that the princes’ parents could be in danger. Prince Garamond agrees to guard Vistel’s Circus with his Lizard Folk pirates, and Prince Berek takes a few of his friends back to the Isle of Valor.

Hamfast Hammerfist has little difficulty posing as a partier headed to the “Crystal Goblet,” and Scully Strongbow tells sentries that she’s hunting vermin with her owl. Elsa Fairbottom claims to be searching for rare herbs in the queen’s gardens — even though it’s late at night.

Giacomo Du Vane stays in the archives, researching House Sable, which he suspects of necromancy, and options for Berek’s trial for the disappearance of the Bard Katarina several years ago. She was his tutor and lover, as well as the wife of Dalek, a Tiefling (devil-touched) Mage and counselor to the king.

Corwin casts Change Self to pose as a guard and gain entry to the Gilded Keep. He follows King Edmund II and Lord Stefan Sable to a chamber and waits outside. The disguised prince notices a very large cat prowling the corridors. The feline hisses at Berek as he shoos it away. The creature’s shadow changes shape as it rounds the corner.

Meanwhile, Elsa and Hamfast approach the Hall of Thanes. The Dwarf Druid casts Detect Magic but doesn’t find anything wrong with the guards. The tall Zeda human can almost pass as a blond Saganim warrior. Gnoll Scully pretends to chase her owl to a tree near the palace, in the hopes of climbing up to keep a better watch.

Corwin nods as Lord Stefan leaves the king’s chambers, and he hears his father apparently arguing with Queen Margaret. The errant prince hears furniture breaking and smashes in the door, only to see the queen perched unnaturally over King Edmund!

The Bard quickly casts Sleep, incapacitating the woman. As he bends down to help his father tie her up, soldiers arrive with Lord Dalek. The court Wizard says that Corwin has attacked the king, but Edmund groggily vouches for him.

Dalek’s Dispel Magic removes Berek’s disguise and reveals the attacker as a Doppleganger. The king angrily orders his men to scour the castle for the real Queen Margaret, and Prince Berek persuades his father to let him to join the search rather than be expelled.

At the gate tower, Elsa and Hamfast try to talk their way past the guards and hear a commotion inside. Scully decides against scaling the Gilded Keep’s walls and joins her friends.

Corwin/Berek must tread carefully with various nobles watching him. Retracing the queen’s steps back to her chambers, he finds his sister Karenna, who slips him a note telling him to go to the Cathedral of Edillon.

Corwin grabs Hamfast, Scully, and Elsa, and they go to the temple of the lord of the winds. High priest Gwawn takes the group past Paladins and down into the crypt. There, he reveals a secret passage that leads farther beneath the Isle of Valor.

In a subterranean cell, the team finds Queen Margaret fully decked out in armor, flanked by handmaiden Morgaine and “Melchior Merryman” [Byron V.O./Non-Player Character], a Defender of the Night. She explains that they were exploring passages added while the royal family had fled the city when it was under attack by Dubwana (Goblinoid) legions from the Garku Nasit.

The Saganim sovereign recommends that Prince Berek interrogate the shapeshifter and check on his siblings. Queen Margaret reassures him that now that the alarm has been raised, she and King Edmund will be safe.

Corwin and company go back to the castle, where Prince Daven and his girlfriend Princess Julia have just arrived on his new hippogriff. Daven accuses Berek of interfering with state security, and Elsa asks Daven where he has been.

The crown prince replies that he was with friends at his theater near the Bardic College. At Scully’s recommendation, Elsa communicates with the hippogriff, which corroborates Daven’s story about being across town.

The investigators head to the dungeon, where the Doppleganger changes itself to resemble Corwin. It taunts him, trying to loudly implicate the prince in a plot to the guards. The would-be assassin yields no further information.

In the kitchen, Berek is greeted by cook Skilti, who remembers him as a boy. He is butchering a strange animal, which he said was just delivered to him already skinned. Corwin is horrified to recognize it as the unnatural cat he had encountered, and he casts Charm Person to keep Skilti from putting it into meat pies.

Berek recalls that Dalek’s familiar was a bat but still believes that the mage, House Sable, and Daven are up to no good. The carnival folk leave the Isle of Valor and bring the cat carcass to the Grove of Arbos, where Scully and Elsa met Brownie Pfenik.

The helpful Fey says it could be a varun, a breed of cat used by the Drow (western Dark Elves) of Zuromm. The exhausted party returns to the Agora to catch a few hours of sleep in their familiar tents and wagons guarded by Garamond.

The next morning, Elsa leads the way to the Royal Society of Cartography to ask “Ulrich Vandermoor” [Ted A.H./N.P.C.] for fragmentary maps of the Underdark. At the tower of the Tartan Guard, Hamfast hears Sir Owen’s tales of attacks by giant spiders and scorpions at the edge of the Halmed Desert.

Prince Berek sends a message to the queen, who sends Melchior to meet him at the Houses of Healing. Corwin reports on his findings regarding the cat and his frustration in questioning the Doppleganger. Melchior suggests leaving the palace alone for a time and seeing if there are ties back to the nefarious Dark Elves.

Sister Ophelia, a priestess of Ulandt, lady of rest, tells fellow Cleric Elsa that the knights of Otih, lord of the sun and justice, are also trustworthy. Scully is interested in meeting Wolfen Paladin “Niac” [Mike F./N.P.C.]. Although Berek and Garamond oppose Prince Daven, neither is eager to become heir to the throne himself.

Corwin takes Scully to the Bardic College, where they meet with Maeve Gallagher, a priestess of Brijitt, goddess of fire and poetry. There, the Gnoll Ranger gets a makeover as Corwin considers Maeve’s advice on repairing his reputation with the people of Thadenis.

Hamfast notes that it might also be worth paying a visit to the Zuromm embassy, while Giacomo continues his studies….

Given the tragic events at the Boston Marathon, it’s understandable that we were all a bit distracted, but it was still good to get together with friends. Let us hope that justice prevails in the real world at least as much as in our fantasy ones.

Remember that we won’t be meeting next Monday, April 22, because David I.S. (who played Elf Ranger “Kelan” 25 years ago) will be visiting for the Boston Comic Con. There also won’t be a “Vortex: Terra’s Pride” telecom space opera session this coming Sunday.

Jason E.R.’s “Barsoomian Adventures: the Tenth Ray of Mars” planetary romance will continue on April 29, and good luck to Josh C.’s “Steam Wars” telecom group. I look forward to resuming our adventures in the “Vanished Lands” in May!

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Update 39.11 — Inheritance interrupted

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Session 39.11, which Rich C.G. hosted in Waltham, Mass., on Monday, 8 April 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 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. 3

“Hamfast Hammerfist” [Brian W./absent ]-male Zeda human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 3

“Scully Strongbow” [Sara F.]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 3

“Corwin Windsong” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 3

“Elsa Fairbottom” [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with owlbear cub “Oswald”; NGc, Lvl. 3

“Tempestade” [Josh C./departed ]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), roustabout; CGl, Lvl. 2

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

“2 to 4 March 1228 B.C.E.:” The performers had caroused and conducted research in Thadenis, capital of the (proto-Celtic) human kingdom of Saganim. They also obtained an audience with King Edmund II and Queen Margaret and got permission to discreetly investigate possible corruption in the court.

Scully Strongbow returns from hunting with Grugach (Wild Elf) Badgertail outside of the city. The Gnoll Ranger says that they found tracks of a Lizard Folk warband while hunting deer. It is unusual for such humanoids to venture so near to Thadenis.

The next morning, Giacomo Du Vane visits the Harandrim Academy and finds a modest building near the “Happy Brownie” inn and the Royal Society for Cartography. The Mage buys a Tincture of Energy from Akael Nightmist and chats with Maggie Oakleaf, a droll Sylvan Elf student.

Giacomo joins Corwin Windsong in the Agora (market square) to get a silver and ruby pin of a tree for Maggie. Bard Corwin buys an opal necklace for Maeve Gallagher, a priestess of Brijitt, goddess of fire and poetry, he met at the Bardic College.

Crowds gather for the investiture of Prince Daven. A parade leads from the Agora, where Vistel’s Circus is encamped, to the Isle of Valor. Hamfast Hammerfist mingles with the peasants. Leaders of various craft guilds go first, followed by members of the clergy.

Elsa Fairbottom walks with Anatoly Yusoprov, a Dwarf priest from Nersago’s Forge. Druid Elsa also notes the presence of Clerics of darker gods Libitoh, Nenashen, and Gheket.

Scully watches from a riverfront rooftop overlooking the East Rush. She spots a rare Wolfen [“Niac,” Mike F./Non-Player Character] with the Paladins of Otih, god of the sun and justice. Different orders of warriors come next, including caber tossers, the Jaden Spearmen, and the Tartan Guard.

Sir Banor Finney, whose late squire Adric Thumon had enslaved Goblins at a silver mine near Androth, rides with other knights. Finally, aristocrats, diplomats, and councilors cross the Cavalier’s Bridge to the Isle of Valor.

Corwin and Giacomo slip across the Temple Bridge with Maggie and Maeve. They try to avoid being seen by the Tiefling Mage Dalek and Lords Stefan and Sean of House Sable. Corwin notices a man with a bushy beard and a yellow hat talking with one of the queen’s handmaidens — “Melchior Merryman” [Byron V.O./N.P.C.].

King Edmund announces that he is naming Prince Daven heir apparent. A blonde woman arrives on a hippogriff and presents it to the crown prince. Maeve explains that the rider of the winged steed is Princess Julia, who is expected to soon be betrothed to the ambitious Prince Daven.

However, sharp-eyed Scully notices a commotion at the Sailor’s Gate. Two ships (later identified as the “Charming Princess” and the “Wind Duke”) pass the Isle of Grief. Reptile Folk pirates force a path for Prince Garamond, Daven’s older half-brother.

Honorable Garamond challenges Daven’s ascension on the grounds that their eldest sibling, Prince Berek, is still alive and is innocent of the murder of Dalek’s wife Katarina. King Edmund and Queen Margaret are displeased by the public strife and take the argument into the Cathedral of Edillon.

Elsa and Scully manage to catch up to Giacomo and Corwin. Giacomo bribes sentry Aerith into letting them into the temple. They hear the nobles arguing under winged statues in the echoing halls.

Lord Stefan takes notes as Prince Garamond says that he doesn’t want the throne, but Daven doesn’t deserve it either. King Edmund asks Garamond how he knows that Berek is alive, and Princess Karenna tries to be inconspicuous.

Corwin steps forward and reveals himself as the exiled Prince Berek. Dalek is angry to see him, but Queen Margaret and her guards keep any blood from being spilled in the cathedral. Elsa, Giacomo, and Scully vouch for Berek/Corwin’s character.

King Edmund says that he will let the incomplete ceremony stand, leaving Prince Derek the heir apparent for the time being. Berek must first clear his name of the years-old charges before he or Garamond can challenge their half-brother. Lord Stefan suggests a trial by combat.

The weight of ruling his realm upon him, King Edmund agrees to reconvene two days hence. In the meantime, Vistel’s Circus will perform in the Agora, and Berek and Garamond must stay within the city’s walls, if not yet in the Gilded Keep. Giacomo and company are given permission to continue their research.

The princes and their companions go to “Ghanki’s Gin Pub,” near the Ironhooves Arena. Giacomo plans to investigate House Sable and reopen the records surrounding Katarina’s disappearance. The Wizard asks Maggie to help.

Garamond tells brother Corwin/Berek that he searched for him on the Sea of Nagendwa, but lost his original crew when he was shipwrecked in the Zarendo Islands. Garamond eventually fell in with the Lizard Folk and returned home.

Wise Elsa notes that with Daven in line for succession, the king and queen may be in danger as the older princes wait for trial. Corwin asks Garamond to send his crew to guard the circus, while his allies try to sneak back onto the Isle of Valor to protect the crown.

Corwin warns Orlando Vistel about the heightened danger, but the circus founder expresses confidence in his master of ceremonies. Scully and Elsa bring their animal companions to the Grove of Arbos, where they meet Druid Lorcan Mahoney and Pfenik, a friendly Brownie.

Vistel’s Circus begins its show in the Agora (another is planned for the nobles in a few days). Corwin introduces acrobats, fire dancers, and additional artists wrangled by Maeve. Some of the audience is curious about his true identity.

Giacomo returns to the Hall of Thanes, ostensibly to read up on Saganim laws, but he also has an Invisibility spell ready and is looking to warn Queen Margaret or her agents. Scully and Elsa leave the circus early to head to the Isle of Valor “to hunt rats” with Owlicious.

Corwin casts Change Self to disguise himself. The once (and possibly future) Prince Berek looks for his half-brother Daven and foes Dalek and Stefan in the gloom….

Please remember to make sure that your Player Character records are up to date, and let me know if I’ve left anything out. While my notes are accurate, I haven’t done justice to the fun role-playing of our recent sessions. I also look forward to continuing our adventures tonight!

In addition, I’ll try to post an update for last night’s ” Vortex: Terra’s Pride” telecom space opera soon, and remember that we won’t be meeting next week. Josh, good luck with your “Steam Wars” game. Jason’s “Barsoomian Adventures: the Tenth Ray of Mars” planetary romance will resume on April 29. Later, -Gene