D&D5e “Vanished Lands” Session 41.2 — Motley crusaders

Fellow role-players, here is my update for Session 41.2 of our face-to-face D&D5e “Vanished Lands” game, which Drew and Divya S. hosted in Needham, Mass., on Monday, 1 June 2015:

In one ancient world, there was a place 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.

Sometime after a group of former circus performers wandered aboard the airship Zephyr and a team of diplomatic escorts fought chaos in Tong Sheng, past heroes reunited, and another band gathered on the Sea of Nagendwa….

Initial Player Character roster for Gene D.’s “Vanished Lands” face-to-face nautical campaign, using Dungeons & Dragons Fifth Edition, as of summer 2015:

“Kamar Alazar” [Beruk A.]-male Suthern human swashbuckler (proto-Arabic Bard) and former member of the “Liberators” and “Dragonslayers”; CG, Lvl. 1

“Nuriel Earendil” [Brian W.]-male Grey Elf acolyte of light (Cleric of Corellan Larethian); NG, Lvl. 1

“Cassy Keelnipper” [Sara F./absent]-female Otter-kin Rogue; NG, Lvl. 1

“Kaelen Northsea” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf scout (Sylvan/? Ranger), seeking his father; NG, Lvl. 1

“Eldamir Tempestborn” [Rich C.G.]-male Atlantean human soldier (Theran/Minoan Barbarian), tattooed member of the Order of the Kingfisher, specialist in the net and trident; CG, Lvl. 1

“Barret” [Drew S.]-male Minotaur wrestler and gladiator (Fighter) with a crossbow; LG, Lvl. 1

“Puliarus Aearion” [Charles S.]-male Half-Elf sage (Thalassaquendi storm Sorcerer), seeking to befriend all; CN, Lvl. 1

Backup characters:

“Ludovico ‘Ludo’ Rosso” [Beruk A.]-male human ex-gladiator (Monk; see Bruce K.’s Pathfinder: Eberron/Reign of Winter); LN, Lvl. 1
“?” [Brian W.]-male Hifalendorin (proto-Western European) human Fighter, pragmatist; LN, Lvl. 1
“?” [Sara F.]-female ?; NG, Lvl. 1
“Drogan” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Orc (Saganim) Barbarian, with a great sword; CN, Lvl. 1
“Sebastian Leafsworn” [Rich C.G.]-male Sylvan Elf Monk and sage, with forbidden lore; LG, Lvl. 1
“Vasco” [Drew S.]-male clockwork butler (Warforged), former member of the Zephyr’s crew, displaced in time and space; LN, Lvl. 1
“Antoun Miner” [Charles S.]-male Hill Dwarf Druid, healer curious about the sea; TN, Lvl. 1

“2 October 1227 B.C.E.:” A new band of mercenaries met in the Saganim (proto-Celtic) human port of Drunstimlos and decided to sign onto the naval cruiser H.M.S. Dauntless. Before coming aboard, however, they had to acquire some maps from a neglected temple in town.

Eldamir is curious about Father Gwydion, whom they met at the temple of Addoh, but Kamar is wary of the priest. Puliarus wants to ask around about the maps, and Kaelen and Barret agree to accompany him.

As the two teams leave the “Sailor’s Climb” pub, they see Nuriel walking on the beach contemplating the vastness of time and space. They also spot an Otter-kin darting about on the busy docks.

Kamar and Eldamir return to the temple of the sea lord and wait outside. They eventually see an elderly couple slowly climb the hill to the church and hesitate outside its decrepit doors. The two people then turn and start to walk away.

Cunmor and Elise tell the Bard and Barbarian that they blame Fr. Gwydion for the loss of their son, Gareth. Several years ago, Gareth ran away to join a pirate named “Lord Lucius,” and the priest didn’t try to talk him out of it, they say. He was later killed at sea.

The Saganim townsfolk are surprised to learn that Fr. Gwydion has returned, and they say that the sorry state of the temple is a sign that Addoh has abandoned the people of Drunstimlos.

Innkeeper Geraint directs Puliarus to Rowan Thorne, a local mage. He, Kaelen, and Barret find a thatched cottage at the edge of town. A woman emerges, clutching packets of herbs. Puliarus knocks, and a voice lazily invites him in.

The visitors meet a thin, pale human with lank blond hair and a loosely tied robe. When Thorne notices that Minotaur Barret is having trouble entering the crowded cottage, he Shrinks him from 7 feet in height to 3 feet!

Ranger Kaelen observes the well-stocked alchemical supplies and components drying in the rafters and concludes that Thorne isn’t as dissolute as he appears. “Minitaur” Barret befriends Nelly, the Wizard’s large wolfhound.

Sorcerer Puliarus shows Thorne symbols that he has copied from Fr. Gwydion’s maps, which Cmdr. Maxwell expects as a condition for coming aboard the H.M.S.Dauntless. The magic user easily identifies nearby barrows (tombs) and says that the wolf’s head image likely refers to outlaws accused of witchcraft.

Thorne says that he’s thirsty, which Barret understands as a request for payment before he’ll share more information. The Fighter runs off to a nearby pub to fetch a bottle of wine and a sausage for Nelly. The bartender is so bemused that he doesn’t haggle.

Kamar and Eldamir, among others, spot shrunken Barret on his way back to the Wizard’s cottage. Thorne then associates the tower symbol with the manor of Lord Caerdon. A house with a moat could refer to a heretic’s holdout with a monster-stocked pool, he says.

He also says the symbol of trees could refer to the Tulvey Woods, which are good for occasional hunting of small game, or the Bonerattle Woods, which are to the east and said to be haunted. Puliarus and company thank the Wizard and leave.

Barret is interested in checking out the woods, but he outvoted by those who favor checking out the barrow mounds. The group gathers its gear and hikes north, onto the wide Plains of Sathendo.

Kaelen leads the way as would-be adventurers carefully ford a stream. Eldamir, Kamar, Puliarus, and Barret follow through fields and moors. They decide to camp for the night a few miles away from the tombs.

On the first watch, unshrunk Barret and Half-Sea Elf Puliarus sit near the fire to avoid mosquitos. During the second watch, Kamar and Kaelen hear something large splashing in the stream. The Suthern human goes to wake the others, while the Half-Sylvan Elf scout creeps closer, spotting a seal-like creature.

As the motley crusaders arrive, the strange animal panics, roars, and lurches toward the people on land. Atlantean human Eldamir’s tattoos begin to glow blue as he rages. Kaelen draws two short swords and attacks. Barret is briefly scared by the bellowing beast, which lunges at Puliarus but misses him.

Puliarus casts Magic Missile and maneuvers, while Kamar also hesitates because of the animal’s noises. Eldamir charges and throws his net, slowing his opponent. Kaelen scores two hits, but Barret misses.

The beast, which sage Puliarus identifies as a Bunyip, frees itself from Eldamir’s net. Kamar provides Bardic Inspiration to Kaelen, and raging Eldamir cries out “For Atlantis!” Horned Barret ends the fight with a goring rush.

Barbaric Eldamir and Barret butcher the carcass and claim razor-sharp teeth for future arrowheads. Each party member gets two Bunyip teeth. Eldamir spends an uneventful third watch before breaking camp in the morning.

The wanderers reach the barrows and see three large tombs, as on the old map, surrounded by many lesser mounds. Kaelen and Kamar search the tumbled-down entrance to the largest barrow. Eldamir, Barret, and Puliarus check the perimeter and find a few tracks in the high grass.

After some trial and error amid trapped or blocked doorways, Kaelen and Kamar find a door into the ancient catacombs. A stone lintel includes a carving of a symbol of a cloud blowing wind. Barret, who has a good sense of direction, leads the way, followed by Kaelen, Kamar, Puliarus, and Eldamir.

The explorers traverse narrow tunnels and follow three left forks. They come to a closed door and an oaken archway that hasn’t rotted despite the passage of time. Barret senses a fleeting breeze at his back and glimpses a white gown disappearing around a corner.

The Minotaur mapper wants to pursue it, but Kamar recommends staying together as he, Eldamir, and Puliarus try to decipher the door mechanism. When they do, they are surprised to see a large tree in a flowery meadow, despite the fact that they are many feet underground.

Kaelen and Eldamir notice that the tree is rather gnarled, and the butterflies actually look more like moths, but they shrug and follow the others through the enchanted portal….

Don’t worry — we’ll get to the agreed-upon nautical adventures soon enough! I think starting out with a classic dungeon crawl has worked out well so far, and I look forward to new party’s (mis)adventures!

In the meantime, remember to finish equipping and uploading your characters (and their backups), and I look forward to seeing most of you at upcoming “Star Wars: Dark Times” or “Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” sessions.

D&D5e “Vanished Lands” Session 41.1 — New flotsam and jetsam

Fellow role-players, here is my update for Session 41.1 of our face-to-face D&D5e “Vanished Lands” game, which Drew & Divya S. hosted in Needham, Mass., on Monday, 18 May 2015:

Initial Player Character roster for Gene D.’s “Vanished Lands” face-to-face nautical campaign, using Dungeons & Dragons Fifth Edition, as of summer 2015:

“Kamar Alazar” [Beruk A.]-male Suthern human swashbuckler (proto-Arabic Bard) and former member of the “Liberators” and “Dragonslayers”; CG, Lvl. 1

“Nuriel” [Brian W.]-male Grey Elf acolyte of light (Cleric of Corellan Larethian); NG, Lvl. 1

“Cassy Keelnipper” [Sara F./absent]-female Otter-kin Rogue; NG, Lvl. 1

“Kaelen Northsea” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf scout (Sylvan/? Ranger), seeking his father; NG, Lvl. 1

“Eldamir Tempestborn” [Rich C.G.]-male Atlantean human soldier (Theran/Minoan Barbarian), tattooed member of the Order of the Kingfisher, specialist in the net and trident; CG, Lvl. 1

“Barret” [Drew S.]-male Minotaur wrestler and gladiator (Fighter) with a crossbow; LG, Lvl. 1

“Puliarus” [Charles S.]-male Half-Elf sage (Thalassaquendi storm Sorcerer), seeking to befriend all; CN, Lvl. 1

Backup characters:

“Ludovico ‘Ludo’ Rosso” [Beruk A.]-male human ex-gladiator (Monk; see Bruce K.’s Pathfinder: Eberron/Reign of Winter); LN, Lvl. 1
“?” [Brian W.]-male Hifalendorin (proto-Western European) human Fighter, pragmatist; LN, Lvl. 1
“?” [Sara F.]-female ?; NG, Lvl. 1
“Drogan” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Orc (Saganim) Barbarian, with a great sword; CN, Lvl. 1
“?” [Rich C.G.]-female human Wild Mage (Sorcerer); CG, Lvl. 1
“Vasco” [Drew S.]-male clockwork butler (Warforged), former member of the Zephyr’s crew, displaced in time and space; LN, Lvl. 1
“?” [Charles S.]-male Hill Dwarf Druid, healer curious about the sea; TN, Lvl. 1

“1 October 1227 B.C.E.:” Kamar arrives in the Saganim (proto-Celtic) human town of Drunstimlos, trying to forget his recent past. The wanderer goes straight to the “Sailor’s Climb” public house, where he warily watches newcomers.

He soon notices a large tattooed man staring at him. Eldamir comes over and introduces himself as the guard of Nuriel, a slight and well-dressed Elf behind him. They begin talking about finding jobs aboard one of the ships in the harbor.

This draws the attention of Kaelen, who promptly asks barkeep Geraint for a recommendation. The scout is directed to old salt Charas Thulba, who names the following vessels in return for a round of drinks:

The Unbroken Colt: A Saganim galley headed to distant Bokor Island, captained by the ruthless Shane Moriarty
Two Tuns of Fun: A merchantman headed to the (proto-Western European) kingdom of Hifalendor, captained by the unlucky Lewellyn Tergannon
The Dauntless: A Saganim navy cruiser, set to patrol near the port of Sileran, with Capt. Sheridan Driscoll in command

Friendly Puliarus joins the table and offers his services as a sage of the sea. Kaelen notices the shadow of someone lurking outside the pub’s door, so he goes out to investigate.

The Half-Elf finds himself face-to-chest with a Minotaur! Barret says that he is looking for a fighting ring, and Kaelen offers to help him if he’ll join the new group inside.

After some discussion, the motley crew agrees to seek employment aboard the H.M.S. Dauntless. Eldamir helps Nuriel pick an outfit before they head to the docks, where they see fishwives and the warship and the other vessels Thulba had described.

Miniature seaport — Medieval-style seaport

Two guards holding spears and shields stop the mercenaries at the end of the gangplank. Kamar and Kaelen introduce themselves and their companions and ask about employment.

Cmdr. Perry Maxwell, first officer of the Dauntless, studies Nuriel’s letter of introduction and says that the Saganim cruiser will set sail in a few days. In the meantime, he says, the band can prove itself by retrieving some maps that he has been unable to directly acquire.

Cmdr. Maxwell directs the would-be sailors to the local temple of Addoh, lord of the waters. The group sets off, climbing winding cobbled streets until it finds a decrepit church.

Broken shutters creak in the breeze and paint peels from the walls. Ranger Kaelen knocks on the open door as the team enters. A layer of dust coats most surfaces, including rotten pews and a stone altar. Grey Elf Nuriel, a priest of Corellan Larethian, notices carvings of sea animals on pillars.

Suthern human Kamar is suspicious when he spots a pile of ragged clothing and beddings. Atlantean human Eldamir calls out, and Father Gwydion appears. The Saganim priest is sunburned and somewhat confused. He claims that he has been away for a few years, hence the neglected state of the temple.

Sly Sea Elf Puliarus gets behind Fr. Gwydion and casts Charm Person to get him to be more coherent and cooperative. The Cleric almost resists the storm Sorcerer, but his eyes betray compliance.

In return for some help cleaning and repairing the building, Fr. Gwydion agrees to give the maps, but he warns the visitors, as he did Cmdr. Maxwell, that “they lead to nothing but trouble.”

The men find brooms and begin cleaning. Nuriel casts Prestidigitation to wipe the altar and fix some rafters, and tall Barret happily clears cobwebs from the rafters. A cloud of dust obscures everyone’s vision, and Fr. Gwydion disappears for a moment, only to reappear with some scrolls in hand.

The as-yet-unnamed band looks at the faded parchments. One is an old map of Drunstimlos as it appeared decades ago, based on its smaller size. Another is of an uncharted island in the Sea of Nagendwa.

The third map is most curious: It shows a forest, a stream, a tower, and a large house on a hill and/or surrounded by a moat. Kamar wonders about the double doors on the building, as well as hills with an possible cave entrance that remind him of pyramids, ancient tombs far to the southwest.

There is a stylized wolf’s head on the right side, and an ornate, upside-down trident on the left, which Nuriel suspects is a compass indicating the bottom of the map as north. Kamar wonders if the maps are guides to hidden pirate treasure.

As the squad leaves Fr. Gwydion and the temple, Puliarus offers to compare the maps with others in town to see if he can learn more about their location….

I’m glad that we’re off to a strong start for our new campaign! Don’t forget to complete your Player Character (and backup) records and post them to Obsidian Portal or give me copies. I look forward to our adventures, as well as to Bruce’s cookout in June!

In the meantime, we also have the end of Dexter V.H.‘s D&D5e “Land of Lost Souls” and my D20/FATE “Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” games, as well as the relaunch of Jason E.R.’s “Star Wars: Dark Times” scenario! Stay in touch….

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Expedition” Sessions 57, 58 — Astral raid and vanquishing Vappu Lahja

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands” Sessions 39.57 and 58, which Jason E.R. co-ran and Drew S. hosted in Needham, Mass., on April 6 and 20, 2015:

“Vistel’s Expedition”, crew of the Zephyr, Player Character Party 39 in Gene D.’s “Vanished Lands” campaign, using the D20 Basic Fantasy Role-Playing Game, Dungeon Crawl Classics, Pathfinder, and FATE 3e Legends of Anglerre, as of spring 2015:

“Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane” [Beruk A.]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) with a checkered past and homunculus familiar Gerald; NGc, Lvl. 12

“Scully Strongbow” [Sara F.]-female albino Flind (Gnoll) Ranger, archer, and sailor, with owl “Owlicious” and boyfriend “Capt. Niac”; NGl, Lvl. 12

“Corwin Windsong” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, wandering noble, warrior, and mandolin player; CNg, Lvl. 12

“Elsa Fairbottom” [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, diplomat, and animal handler with banuq (winged cat) Penryn; NGc, Lvl. 12

“Rhys Davies” [Drew S.]-male Tinker Gnome (Minoi) clockwork gadgeteer, shipwright, and impetuous Rogue; TNcg, Lvl. 12

Cameos, departed:

“Hamfast Hammerfist” [Brian W.]-male Zeda (proto-Germanic) human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 10
“Tempestade” [Josh C.]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), former roustabout, now a follower of Otih; CGl, Lvl. 10
“Radius” [Jason E.R.]-male Modron Paladin of Primus, lord of Nirvana; exiled to the Prime Material plane; LGn, Lvl. 9
“Sir Torrel” [Alex W.]-male Hifalendorin human Paladin of Otih, the lord of the sun and justice; LGn, Lvl. 7
“Melchior Merryman” [Byron V.O.]-male Saganim/Hifalendorin human Cleric of Ulandt, lady of rest/Defender of the Night, hunter of Undead; former member of the “Seekers of Lore”; NGl, Lvl. 8/3
“Brendan Quinn” [Brian W.]-male Saganim (proto-Celtic) human Rogue, explorer; NGl, Lvl. 9
“Brogar the Barbarian” [Brian S.]-male Skaevingol (Viking-style) human Barbarian, happy warrior; NGc, Lvl. 9
“Tarwen Rinuendell” [Dana S.]-female Avariel (winged Elf) Fighter, unflappable but secretive scout; LGn, Lvl. 12

A band of onetime circus performers had sought adventure on the northwestern Plains of Sathendo. They freed Goblin slaves, investigated intrigues in the Saganim human capital, and defended the port of Sileran from an attack by giants.

“Vistel’s Expedition” also sailed to the wondrous city of Falit and the Zarendo Islands, where it infiltrated a Temple of Elemental Evil. After journeying to the barbaric port of Gisar, the wanderers traveled through time and space to rescue Tempestade’s kin.

Back on the Plains of Sathendo, the command crew of the airship Zephyr confronted the mysterious Vappu Lahja in the occupied town of Kedetura. It neutralized several of her Centaur followers and magically imprisoned the pale sorceress.

After rescuing the founders of Vistel’s Circus from more Unseelie Fey, the groupTeleported but found itself not at the Zephyr, but in the Astral Plane! They joined some Githzerai in preparing to raid a floating Githyanki tower.

“23 May to 31 August 1227 B.C.E.:” Rek’elma explains that the Spelljammer T’unarathi (“Dragon Rider”) is disguised as a Githyanki ship. The gray-skinned Githzerai says that he’ll be wrapped up as one of his hated foes, while most of his crew waits below decks to attack. The outlanders will have to take point, he says.

Giacomo casts Shield on himself as the T’unarathi approaches a spherical island with four towers and a docklike projection. Tarwen Teleports out uncontrollably and is replaced by Scully, who is initially confused.

Corwin demands time to recover his spells. The impetuous Bard then dons his hat of Disguise and casts Comprehend Languages and Displacement.

Elsa prays to patron deities Vulkan (Moradin) and Mekkil (Gaia) for guidance regarding how metaphysics works in the Outer Planes. The Druid then Wild Shapes into a mouse and jumps into one of Rhys’ pockets.

Rhys is excited to be on a Spelljammer, but the Tinker Gnome is worried when his Bag of Holding, which contained his automatons, is seemingly empty.

The T’unarathi floats next to two void cruisers. Four Githyanki, plus two more with red armor and strange pistols, watch the gangplanks behind Walls of Force. Corwin, disguised as a Githyanki, sings to Enthrall the guards.

The Half-Elf also asks about Vappu Lahja, for whom he claims he has a gift. Ranger Scully is intimidating in her true form, an albino Gnoll. Wizard Giacomo cackles happily with his homunculus familiar Gerald. Rhys hides, and Elsa casts Calm Emotions.

The red guards notify Capt. Perragroup, who was recently stationed at Sheldar and mentions something about a “mating run.” The gaunt Githyanki orders the sentries to take the newcomers to commander Vimhanock.

As they follow the Githyanki into the fortress, Corwin casts Web on two guards. Rhys holds his action, but Elsa helps create a diversion as a scurrying mouse. Giacomo casts Obscuring Mist. Scully quaffs a potion of Invisibility, and Rek’elma disembarks with 12 crewmates.

Hifalendorin human Giacomo casts Reverse Gravity, causing some of the Githyanki to float. Hill Dwarf Elsa Wild Shapes into a dire bear, and Rhys dodges plasma blasts from the pistols.

Saganim prince Corwin casts Wail of the Banshee, and Scully races down corridors looking for traces of Vappu Lahja. Rek’elma’s Githzerai engage the Githyanki guards in a running battle. Elsa is wounded in the crossfire.

Giacomo casts Ray of Enfeeblement on Capt. Perragroup, and Elsa casts Dominate Animal against a snarling Gith hound. Corwin’s Fireball incinerates the eight hounds, as the raiding party reaches the quarters of the void cruiser captains.

Scully uses Find the Path, while Giacomo casts Magic Missiles, killing the last Githyanki. Elsa drops Perragroup and mauls a guard. Rhys runs after Scully, and Corwin draws his sword and dagger.

They find a room with six exits and go down. A ball of coins floats at the center of a spherical chamber, and a large red dragon coils around it! She awakens, pinning Rhys to the wall and grabbing Invisible Scully with a clawed hand.

Meanwhile, Corwin grabs the following items from the Githyanki (to be divided later):

armor, splint
ring of Enlarge
ring of Protection, + 2
2 shields, +1
2 swords, long, +1, silvered

The Githzerai fight off Githyanki reinforcements while the Zephyr ’s away team looks for Scully and Rhys. The Gnome artificer tries to talk to the dragon, who pushes him out of her chamber. He then reports to his companions that Scully is held captive.

The wanderers warily approach Itolpakugon, who says in a smoky voice that her kind has an ancient pact with the Githyanki. Elsa claims to be a trader “cheated by Perragroup.” Giacomo readies a Contingency spell on winged Gerald.

The red dragon says that she wants freedom for her son, who is being used as a steed by Capt. Okemokik. In return for clearing the citadel of Githyanki, Itolpakugon will grant the group access to “the pale lady” (Vappu Lahja), who may be as much a prisoner of the Githyanki as a guest.

Itolpakugon teaches Corwin a song so that her son will recognize him as her ally. Scully is released, but she notices the scent of three dragons in total.

The group ascends to the officers’ quarters. Giacomo uses his robe of Blendingand casts Invisibility on Gerald. They sneak past the rooms of Gish (Wizards) Morkemo, Toroka, and Vlakith. In the last chamber, the group sees a statue of the Lich Queen on an altar.

Okemokik rests on cushions in another room, apparently spent after a “breeding session.” Itolpakugon’s son lies nearby. Elsa crawls to a corner of the room and tries to calm the dragon. Scully draws her bow and waits in the hallway with Rhys, who borrows a short sword and masterwork short bow.

Corwin sings Itolpakugon’s lullaby, but Okemokik jumps up and casts Magic Missile at the infiltrators. Giacomo sends Silenced Gerald into the room to limit the Githyanki’s spellcasting. Elsa’s Dimensional Anchor is unsuccessful.

Scully and Rhys fire at Okemokik but miss, and Corwin casts a Lightning Bolt at him. The enemy captain’s Touch of Corruption fails, and he jumps into a black tapestry! Corwin chases Okemokik through the magical portal.

Elsa binds wounds and manages to get the young dragon to go back to its mother, and the rest of the group follows Corwin. They find themselves in a throne room with a female Warlock, her honor guard, and a Shadow Knight, as well as Okemokik.

Thanks to his hat of Disguise, Corwin appears to be Mikanuck. The Bard joins the Githyanki in laughing at the injured Okemokik but refuses when the Shadow Knight orders him to kneel before the Warlock.

The Shadow Knight tries to strike Corwin, but his Armor of Retaliation reflects the blow. Corwin casts Wail of the Banshee, which kills four guards and the Warlock’s Mephit familiar, and the party wades back into battle.

Okemokik and the surviving guards miss, and the Warlock casts Lightning. Unfortunately, for Okemokik, he is fried when Corwin’s ring of Spell Battle redirects the bolt at him. Rhys jumps on a guard and pulls his former Bag of Holding over his head.

The Warlock casts Control Undead to direct her slain sentries and familiar, and Scully limits enemy spellcasting with Silenced arrows. Giacomo casts Magic Missile against the Warlock’s Shield and Ray of Enfeeblment against another guard.

Elsa Wild Shapes into bear form and charges. The Druid fights the resurrected Githyanki with a Positive Energy Burst and Invisibility to Undead. The Warlock Dispels the Silence from Scully’s arrows and casts Cone of Cold at Elsa.

Rhys suggests retreating, and Scully casts Heat Metal on the Shadow Knight’s armor. Giacomo manages to slay the Warlock with Mage Sword, and another Positive Energy Burst finishes the Shadow Knight.

Scully follows Vappu Lahja’s scent back past Itolpakugon and Akko’sutor. The voyagers prepare to fight the pale lady. Giacomo casts Silence on stealthy Rhys, who is also carrying a wand of Dispel Magic.

Corwin casts Eagle’s Splendor, Greater Heroism, and Displacement on himself, while ursine Elsa Enlarges herself. Giacomo also casts Mage Armor and Shield as scouts Scully and Rhys enter the room. They see another shrine to the Lich Queen and another tapestry. However, this one appears to be burned out.

Rhys and Corwin also find a concealed door. It leads to a narrow passage trapped with Teleport and Divide the Soul wards. The team backtracks to the throne room, where an undamaged tapestry could lead home.

Elsa and Rek’elma communicate via Message spells. The Githzerai says that he and his crew have what they came for and are leaving. Elsa wishes him good fortune, and Rek’elma responds with “Happy hunting!”

The travelers enter the tapestry and get a brief glimpse of a certain Pit Fiend who has been hunting them. They find themselves in tall wheat fields — apparently, spring has turned to summer back in the “Vanished Lands” while they were in the Astral Plane!

In the distance, Scully spots the walled town of Kedetura. The Zephyr is fighting a red dragon, no doubt Itolpakugon’s other child, who is being ridden by none other than Vappu Lahja.

Dragon vs. airship — Dragon vs. dirigible

Giacomo, Corwin, and Rhys Teleport to their airship. The Gnome engineer notices that the gas bag is filling with water, probably as a result of the Pale Lady’s spells. Scully and Elsa turn into horses and approach Kedetura. They are relieved to see that most of Vappu Lahja’s Unseelie followers are gone.

Rhys dumps his again-full Bag of Holdling at Vappu Lahja and her dragon steed, forcing them to make evasive maneuvers. Corwin tries to leap onto the dragon but misses. Fortunately, the acrobatic aristocrat manages to cast Web to swing back onto the Zephyr.

Giacomo wraps his Whip of Entangle around Vappu Lahja’s throat, pulling her out of the saddle. Elsa Wild Shapes into a falcon to fly up to the fight, just as the dragon breathes fire on Corwin and Giacomo.

Vappu Lahja manages to free herself from the Wizard’s whip, and she casts Fly to try to escape. Rhys uses his ring of Featherfall and dives after clockwork butler Vasco.

Corwin casts Ice Storm, and Giacomo casts Form of the Dragon so that his familiar Gerald is a match for the red dragon! Elsa climbs the dirigible and dumps Dust of Dryness into its gas bag to keep it from crashing.

The red dragon casts Summon Swarm, gathering wasps, and it claws at Gerald, who breathes fire at it. Vappu Lahja heads toward some woods outside of Kedetura. Rhys uses a wand of Silence on his clockwork dragon, which then flies after the sorceress.

The woman in white robes resists Giacomo’s Hold Person, and Elsa Summons Nature’s Ally, conjuring an air elemental she nicknames “Gusty.” Rhys watches as some of his automatons hit the ground, and he uses the wand of Dispel Magic on Vappu Lahja, forcing her to land.

Elsa uses a Positive Energy Burst to heal Giacomo, and Gusty uses a whirlwind to disperse the swarm that the dragon summoned. Vappu Lahja Heals herself and runs, but her former steed fumbles in its aerial attack on Gerald.

Elsa impales Vappu Lahja, who had incited racial hatred between Centaurs and other fey against human farmers, with javelins of Holy Ice. Corwin casts Storm Bolt, slaying the witch.

Giacomo restrains the red dragon with a Force Cage, and Corwin and Elsa help it return to its senses with the song from Itolpakugon. Gerald returns to homunculus form. After some discussion, a Plane Shift spell sends the dragon home to its mother.

The exhausted explorers are hailed as heroes by the Hifalendorin human residents of Kedetura. Wizard Giacomo plans to return with girlfriend “Dread” Maggie Oakleaf to Hesolin’s Magisterium (magic school/library).

Ranger Scully is happy to be reunited with Wolfen Paladin “Capt. Niac” [Mike F./Non-Player Character] aboard the Zephyr. Gnome engineer Rhys also decides to stay with “his” airship, and Elsa recommends using the city of Falit as the home base for her long-range communications network.

Corwin plans to track down his hated foe, the Tielfing mage Lord Dalek, and scheming half-brother, Prince Daven, in Undead-ruled Gisar with help from Melchior. The Bard then hopes to resume courting Princess Priscilla of Hifalendor.

The Zephyr sails off with its brave crew into the sunset….

Thanks again to guest Game Master Jason, and I hope that everybody enjoyed this D20/FATE campaign over the past two and a half years! I look forward to wrapping up the “New Dawn” telecom team and continuing our adventures in the “Vanished Lands” with our first D&D5e parties!

D&D5e “Land of Lost Souls” Session 11 — Drider duel

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for Session 11 of our D&D5e game, which was held on Sunday, 26 April 2015:

Player Characters for the “Land of Lost Souls,” Dexter V.H.’stelecom fantasy miniseries, using Dungeons & Dragons Fifth Edition, AD&D2/D&D3.5 Dragonlance, the D&D4e Forgotten Realms, Palladium Fantasy, Obsidian Portal, Skype, and the Rolz.org dice roller, as of spring 2015:

“Kalidren ‘Cal’ Haraishur” [Gene D.]-male Qualinesti (Sylvan Elf) Paladin of Kiri-Jolith, god of valor; folk hero and a potential member of the Legion of Steel; LGn, Lvl. 5

“Sakan Agramon Majere/Sam” [Beruk A.]-male Irda (High Ogre) Ranger, charlatan disguised as a human, with snow leopard Minerva; TNc, Lvl. 5

“Redrik Stoneflow” [Byron V.O.]-male Neidar (Hill Dwarf) Cleric of Paladine, god of justice; outcast, guild artisan, and silversmith; LGn, Lvl. 5

“Maddie Moonfang” [Sara F.C.]-female wolfing Barbarian, skin changer from the plains and former thrall of an evil wizard; TNc; Lvl. 5

“Perogen Hawke” [Josh C.]-male human Wizard of the White Robes, sage; NGc, Lvl. 5

“Rowan Kar-Thon” [Geoff C.]-male Half-Elf Skald (Bard), outlander and storyteller; NGc, Lvl. 5

“Santiddio Sefrayn” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Rogue (thief), charlatan and professional treasure seeker; CNg, Lvl. 5

“Enyilarur Skilelo” [Drew S./departed ]-male brass Draconian Eldritch Knight (Dragonborn Fighter), noble and arcanist, with three reptilian retainers; CGn, Lvl. 4

The adventurers had entered the ruined Irda city of Vantal, encountering demonic centipedes (Quasits), hell hounds, and a Helmed Horror. They also found an oracular statue, a pool of transformation, and a cursed crown.

The group debates whether to press on or leave the catacombs. Perogen and Rowan are curious about a possible dragon in the lower depths, but Sam, Maddie, and Santiddio are more cautious.

Cal and Redrik recall their original mission to parley with Orc King Obould on behalf of the besieged Dwarves of Thorbardin. They note that they need to return and report.

While camping at the perimeter of the dungeon, the explorers hear whispers in the wind, saying words such as “release,” “redemption,” and “beware the shadows.”

Rowan eventually locates the source as a hand-and-a-half sword carried by Cal. The Paladin doesn’t sense any evil, so the Bard castsIdentify. The sword actually contains the spirit of a man named Valenthius [LN, +2, +6 vs. Chaos, plus Protection From Chaos].

Back on the surface, the spelunkers aren’t happy to see that a magical darkness has spread over all lands. Ranger Sam and Barbarian Maddie help their companions evade yet another Orcish patrol.

However, the six humanoids are led by a servant of Lolth that Wizard Perogen recognizes. She has the upper body of a Dark Elf and the lower body of a large spider.

The adventuring party decides to attack. Cal reaches for javelins, and Sam hits with Hail of Thorns. Cleric Redrik follows up with a Fireball, while Maddie closes for melee.

Perogen’s Chill Touch misses, and Rowan casts Heroism on himself and Maddie. Rogue Santiddio fires his magical bow. In response, the Drider casts Darkness, strikes Cal with an arrow, and taunts the “minions of the light; hear the voice of your new empress.”

Cal’s javelins miss, so the Sylvan Elf draws Valenthius, which glows. Human Perogen switches from Chill Touch to the more defensive Invisibility. Most of the Orcs swing wide, but one strikes Redrik.

Rowan and Maddie team up against one foe, with the Half-Elf inspiring the plains woman to hit with her axe. Half-Elf Santiddio joins in with sword and dagger, killing an Orc.

Hill Dwarf Redrik invokes his patron deity Paladine to place Silence on Cal, preventing the servant of Lolth from casting more spells. However, the Drider hits Maddie, Rowan, and Santiddio with poison gas.

Before the Darkness fell, Cal glimpsed a beautiful woman, but he manages to shake off the Drider’s ensorclement. The holy warrior of Kiri-Jolith, lord of valor, smites his opponent. White-robed Perogen casts Magic Missile before joining Cal in the Silence.

The burly Orcs step out of the area of Darkness to attack Maddie and Rowan. Rowan grants inspiration to Maddie and Santiddio and swings at an Orc. Sam hits with Hail of Thorns and arrows, as Maddie senses something approaching. The skin changer rages and beheads an Orc.

Swashbuckling Santiddio kills two more of the Ogre-kin, and Redrik casts Daylight near Cal and the Drider. Perogen falls under her Charm and ceases his attacks. The spider-woman slashes at armored Cal with swords, but the two surviving Orcs surrender to Sam, who moves them away from the battle.

Maddie hacks at the Drider with her axe, and Redrik’s Scorching Ray badly injures her. Cal and Valenthius slay the Outsider. Sam and Santiddio quickly search the body, finding the following items:

arrows, infected by plague — destroyed by Redrik
arrows, 5, of Slaying (Lawful and Good) — destroyed by Cal
bow, + 2 — claimed by Sam
poison, 4 vials — claimed by Santiddio
spellbook — claimed by Perogen
swords, 2, of unknown metal (adamantium, + 1) — claimed by Santiddio and Rowan

The team resumes its hike to the rendezvous point. However, instead of just Dwarves on giant owls to meet it, there are also Elves on great eagles. Cmdr. Ileria explains that Thorbardin has asked for help from Quelinasti, which is itself under attack from armies of the nefarious Drow.

Perogen casts Message to send Shadowfox, a master scout among the Dwarves, a report on the division among the Orcs that may help with the siege of Thorbardin. The wanderers saddle up and head back southwest….

I’m sorry that we didn’t have quorum this past weekend, and note that we won’t be meeting virtually on Sunday, May 10, because of Mother’s Day. Still, I look forward to wrapping up our “Land of Lost Souls” miniseries and the “Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” campaign! Stay in touch….

D&D5e “Land of Lost Souls” Session 7 — Before Obould Many-Arrows

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for Session 7 of our D&D5e game, which was held on Sunday, 15 March 2015:

“Kalidren ‘Cal’ Haraishur” [Gene D.]-male Qualinesti (Sylvan Elf) Paladin of Kiri-Jolith, god of valor; folk hero and a potential member of the Legion of Steel; LGn, Lvl. 3

“Sakan Agramon Majere/Sam” [Beruk A.]-male Irda (High Ogre) Ranger, charlatan disguised as a human; TNc, Lvl. 3

“Maddie Moonfang” [Sara F.C.]-female wolfing Barbarian, skin changer from the plains and former thrall of an evil wizard; TNc; Lvl. 3

“Perogen Hawke” [Josh C.]-male human Wizard of the White Robes, sage; NGc, Lvl. 3

“Rowan Kar-Thon” [Geoff C.]-male Half-Elf Skald (Bard), outlander and storyteller; NGc, Lvl. 3

“Santiddio Sefrayn” [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Rogue (thief), charlatan and professional treasure seeker; CNg, Lvl. 3

“Redrik Stoneflow” [Byron V.O./absent]-male Neidar (Hill Dwarf) Cleric of Paladine, god of justice; outcast, guild artisan, and silversmith; LGn, Lvl. 3

“Enyilarur Skilelo” [Drew S./absent]-male brass Draconian Eldritch Knight (Dragonborn Fighter), noble and arcanist, with three reptilian retainers; CGn, Lvl. 3

After evacuating two villages ahead of a spreading shadow and an Orcish army, a group of would-be heroes accepted a mission from the Dwarves of beseiged Thorbardin. They flew on giant owls over New Coast to Blodehelm, land of the Orcs.

In the city of Bloten, the group is brought before King Obould and a female Orc shaman. The great hall is lined with animal trophies and clan banners. Obould Many-Arrows invites the visitors to join him for a feast to celebrate the return of his long-lost grandson, Root.

Elf Cal and Dwarf Redrik are disguised as Orcs. They learn that the king is less interested in raiding his neighbors than some of the tribal warlords. Sam chats with Chief Quetti.

Sam and Santiddio learn that Strunge, chief of the Green Moss tribe, doesn’t want to squander the current unity of Blodehelm’s ruling council. Although the Orcs arrived in the “Land of Lost Souls” about a century ago, they have mostly been at peace with other races.

Rowan talks with the shaman, who is less interested in peace with other races and mentions one-eyed Gruumsh. The Skald doesn’t recognize the reference.

Perogen observes the humanoid banquet and ponders the lessons of his test at the Tower of High Sorcery, as well as a black spell book. Skilelo had returned with the second Dwarf scout to warn Thorbardin about another Orcish army on the march.

The Orc chieftains demand that Obould and the outlanders participate in a trial by combat before they’ll consider withdrawing their forces attacking human and Dwarven lands. They admit that Dark Elves have promised them territory.

Both Rogue Santiddio and Rowan volunteer, but the group eventually agrees on Maddie as its representative. The plainswoman is brought down to an iron-bound arena, where she faces off with a large guard drake.

The lizard charges at Maddie, who strikes it in return. In the rowdy audience, Paladin Cal prays to Kiri-Jolith, lord of valor, and Cleric Redrik prays to Paladine. Ranger Sam watches both those making wagers and the combatants to make sure there is no cheating.

Wizard Perogen tries chatting with some of the Orc, and Rowan starts a chant in favor of wolf-skinned Maddie. Others invoke Gruumsh as they cheer for the reptile. Santiddio talks with Strunge, who is sympathetic to the idea of peace.

The drake claws at Maddie, whose Barbarian rage helps her resist injury. The lupine warrior slays her scaled opponent, disappointing its handler but encouraging the non-Orcs.

Obould proclaims that his troops will no longer go to war on behalf of the manipulative Drow. He orders runners to be dispatched. Cal, Sam, and Redrik accept the king’s offer to stay the night in his keep.

Victorious Maddie goes out carousing with Perogen, Rowan, and Santiddio. A burly Orc challenges Perogen and Santiddio to a drinking contest, while Rowan spins tall tales.

After a pint of “Demon’s Brew,” Perogen passes out, so Maddie has to bring him back to his room. During the first watch, there is a knock at the adventuring party’s door.

A servant named Gribba says she brings word from Obould. The young female Orc says that the king has lost sway over several tribes and that the travelers should leave before a possible coup d’etat. She says they should return to Thorbardin if they can.

Gribba leads the group through the castle’s garbage-strewn lower levels. Through a combination of guile and stealth, the team makes its way past sentries. The wanderers make a forced march through the Khalkist Mountains until they are many miles from the Orc capital.

Since they have to wait a few days to rendezvous with their owl steeds, the adventurers head south, toward the ruins at Vantal….

I look forward to continuing our adventures tonight! Remember thatour characters have attained third level.

I also look forward to Bruce’s Dread: Beneath a Metal Sky one-shot at Drew’s place tomorrow night. Be seeing you….