“Star Wars: Dark Times” Session 8 — Enemy Mines

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for Session 8 of Jason’s space opera miniseries, which Brian W. hosted in Newton, Mass., on Monday, 23 December 2013:

A long, long time ago, in a galaxy far, far away — the Galactic Republic has been replaced by a ruthless empire, and the Jedi, once guardians of peace, are now hunted fugitives. In the Unknown Regions, at the edge of explored space, a few Jedi and their allies hope to survive and continue the fight for justice….

Player Character roster for Jason E.R.’s “Star Wars: Dark Times” scenario, using Savage Worlds, autumn 2013:

“Ekafti Acomar“ [Gene D.]-female Rhinnalian human Jedi consular, older diplomat with many contacts but few remaining friends
“Garolos Banku Nuruolos — Garos“ [Beruk A.]-male Chiss (blue-skinned humanoid) ex-Jedi, gambler and owner of the light freighter “Lucky Strike“
“Oong Bak“ [Brian W.]-male Duros (gray-skinned humanoid) honorable and talented mechanic
“Ari Sundar“ [Sara F.]-female Ssi-ruu (raptor-like reptile) military medic, outcast from a species intruding upon the galaxy
“Thayne Highlander“ [Bruce K.]-male human Jedi padawan close to knighthood, 19 years old; saw master killed by Order 66
“Tark Agros“ [Brian S.]-male Bakuran human pilot and noble, mildly delusional hotshot
“Tharg Thargsson“ [Rich C.G.]-male Gamorrean scoundrel and bounty hunter with connections to the Black Sun syndicate
“Max Power“ (MX-PR) [Rich C.G.]-male protocol droid with secret combat subroutine, ordered to protect Jedi (overrode Order 66); killed by Sith Bela Trepada on Bakura

“From the journals of Ekafti Acomar, 19 B.B.Y. (before the Battle of Yavin):” After fighting Imperial Stormtroopers, Krevaaki zealots, young but dangerous Ssi-ruuk, clones, and Mandalorian mercenaries, my companions and I found ourselves on Nar Shaddaa, the Smuggler’s Moon.

To rescue Tootu Anga, a Duros dancer and mother of Oong Bak, we had posed as the “Seven Deadly Shadows,” assassins intercepted by crime boss Soona the Hutt. We exchanged Soona’s feathered headdress for Tootu, but Tharg Thargsson had charged at kidnapper Bal Grainer and revealed the Rodian fixer to be a hologram.

Three IG-86 sentinel droids had us in their sights as Garolos Banku Nuruolos readied his blaster. I told Oong, Tootu, and Tark Agros to leave. Tharg tried to persuade fellow Gamorrean guards Flarg and Snarku to switch sides.

The three sentinels opened fire, killing Snarku and shaking Tharg. Thayne Highlander ignited his light saber and ran to a larger droid, but it had an energy shield. Ari Sundar reached through the field with her claws to grapple the droid.

Once — and future? — Jedi Garos blasted one IG-86 before switching to his two red light sabers (confiscated from Sith clone Bela-Trepada, but that’s another story). Mechanic Oong tried to rewire the blast doors, but to no avail.

I used Battle Mind to help recent padawan Thayne fight, while Flarg joined Tharg in destroying one droid. Garos destroyed another, and Thayne managed to deflect some blaster fire but was still injured.

As scout Ari held onto the larger droid, Tharg finished it off. Thayne used his light saber to cut through a blast door, and we held our breath as the corridors of Bal Grainer’s palace filled with knockout gas. Garos hoped to pursue his Rodian associate rather than leave another enemy to haunt us, but we were outnumbered and had successfully rescued Tootu Anga.

At least Tharg sent the headdress back to Soona, and we had attempted to fulfill our side of our bargain with the Black Sun criminals. We were all relieved to depart on the B6Z1, the fast ship of Tootu’s betrothed Kass Tani.

Kass dropped us off at Bakura, pilot Tark’s homeworld, where we had left the Lucky Strike. On the way, Thayne had another vision of the Jedi of 25,000 years ago. Aliza, the daughter of Jedi master Djem So, was no longer mute. She told Thayne that she had been saved by a Jedi with tattoos.

Aliza also said that we should follow the Sanctuary Route, from Cattamascar to Chiss space, to save other children and bring forth the prophesied “chosen one,” who would bring balance to the Force. I meditated on Thayne’s words and sensed a great disturbance in the Force from the heart of the galaxy. The Dark Side was spreading from Coruscant.

According to my holocron, the Aurabesh-tattooed Jedi described by Aliza matched a Jedi Knight named Ebo Chun-Wai, who disappeared with Master Pir Jelani in the Unknown Regions 6,000 years ago. I agreed with Thayne that we needed to visit Garos’ home space to find missing clone Ramoca Alara and help the Jedi.

However, we first had to get back to our own ship. Bakuran security officers Capt. Blaine Harris and Anya Foravis had impounded the Lucky Strike in connection with Juris Keel, an android infiltrator we had uncovered.

I used Mind Trick to keep our ship from being searched, and we learned that Keel had been working with insectoid Verpine and had traces of hfredium from mines on G’hro. After some debate, we agreed to help Capt. Harris investigate in return for a refurbished HWK-290 freighter.

The Hawk would enable us to get to G’hro (and Cattamascar) more quickly, while the Lucky Strike would serve as a decoy for Imperial and Black Sun pursuers. Harris provided cover identities and promised potential armaments.

We returned to Cattamascar, where we found the Grand Pelgar Hotel repaired after we had saved it from plunging uncontrollably through the planet’s center. The Zenazi monastery was a scene of carnage. Kurtzen monks had driven off the Krevaaki, but many had died in battle.

Hierophant Inif Cundertol was nowhere to be found, but Ari tended to scholar Moross Sapan’s wounds. He said that Cundertol had fled with a girl during the Krevaaki attack. According to Sapan, the hierophant took her to the Sanctuary Route for her own safety.

In addition, Sapan identified the light saber of Shin-Wu Sorotai, Thayne’s late master, as a force saber from the Force Hounds of the ancient Rakatan Empire, which predated the Old Republic. We dropped the sage off at a medical facility related to the Grand Pelgar on Cattamascar’s surface.

We continued on to G’hro, where scoundrel Garos posed as a trader captain. We saw Conjo fighter craft, red hfredium ore for ship hulls, and the Boku settlement surrounded by forest. Flight controller Carga Elix gave us limited visitation rights.

We were accosted by two fighter pilots, a Bakuran human and an Illwizzt (a red elephant-like species), Brco. They turned out to be associates of Capt. Harris sent to help us, supposedly against piracy. From our past dealings with Bakura’s cabals, we knew that we’d likely find something more complex and sinister.

Brco explained that both he and the Imperial forces were being kept out of the mines, but the local security could be outmaneuvered if Conjo fighters entered four shafts simultaneously. Our best pilots would have to coordinate, while the rest of us conducted reconnaissance.

Brco took Tharg in the lead craft, followed by Garos and Oong. Thayne and I went third, with our best, Tark, and Ari last. We flew into the mountain, narrowly evading sensors and lasers.

Inside the central chamber, we saw a control center rather than mining operations. I recognized it as the place from which Juris Keel had watched Thayne and Shin-wu fight their last battle together before Order 66 was given, outlawing the Jedi.

Ari spotted red-scaled Ssi-ruuk warriors. Our reptilian friend had defected from her people, who were drawing life energy from victims to power ships and droids. Garos, Thayne, and I all sensed three Force-using entities, but they felt unnatural.

We got out of the fighters, and Thayne and Oong checked the security monitors. They saw more Ssi-ruuk troops, Verpine, and a Juris Keel-model android, as well as three large cyborgs powered by enslaved Kurtzen monks. We ran to our ships, but they held us with tractor beams.

Tharg and Brco’s Conjo fighter was disabled, and I assisted Thayne by using our guns. Tark flew around, as Ari destroyed two of the battle droids. Garos and Oong had left but returned to help us fend off the slavers.

Tharg blasted at the footsoldiers, while Brco made hasty repairs to his fighter. Garos and Oong shot at the third cyborg, and we made a narrow escape. Brco transmitted our findings to Capt. Harris, who would make sure that the Bakuran authorities dealt with this growing threat.

While traveling along the Shirotoku Way, Thayne had another vision. Clone Ramoca could be the “chosen one, not born of the father,” so we had to save her to save the galaxy.

According to the holocron, the only other heirloom light saber similar to Shin-wu’s was that of Thayne Cerulian, which had passed to Sifo-Dyas and then to Count Dooku and Gen. Grievous. As Master Yoda might say, mysterious are the ways of the Force.

With Garos’ help, Tark set a course for the Sanctuary Route. I’m glad my friends agreed to help us rescue Ramoca. May the Force be with us — always!

Thanks again, Jason, for a fun game, and I look forward to our return to your “Glassworks” superhero setting in spring of 2014! In the meantime, I hope everyone enjoys my “Vanished Lands” fantasy campaign.

“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:

Long ago in a distant land, spirits and men directly traded bamboo, silk, and steel. Wars to the west, twisted monsters, and power-hungry sorcerers threatened the eastern kingdoms, so the call went out for new heroes of honor and tact….

Player Character Party 40 in Gene D.’s “Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” Asian-style telecom campaign, using the Basic Fantasy Role-Playing Game and Advanced Dungeons & Dragons (1st Ed.) Oriental Adventures, plus house rules, Skype, and an online dice roller

“Souji Nobuto ‘Sonny’ Yoshimitsu” [Beruk A.]-male Shengtese Tian Kensai (eastern human weapon master) from a dishonored house in the Lion Clan, specializing in chain weapons; LNg, Lvl. 2
“Toshiharu ‘Toshi’ Sembutsu” [Byron V.O.]-male Shan Sao Wu Jen (eastern Halfling Wizard) from the Tiger Clan with a destiny; NGc, Lvl. 2
“Ember Talon” [Sara F.]-female Crane Hengeyokai Wu (shapeshifting Druid), actually a young gold dragon banished from the Celestial Court; NGl, Lvl. 2
“Saigo Kasugi” [Bruce K.]-male Bamboo Spirit Folk Samurai (eastern Sylvan Elf Cavalier) discreetly serving his daimyo; LNg, Lvl. 2
“Soske’ Tiatoshe” [Geoff C.]-male Shengtese Tian Shukenja (eastern human Cleric), priest of Shang-ti and animist from the Phoenix Clan, prophesied to do great things; LNg, Lvl. 2
“Moon Jung-mo” [Dexter V.H.]-male Nannuattan Ninja (Msamaki, eastern Dark Elf Assassin) who has left the Shadow’s Claw clan and is posing as a River Spirit Folk Yakuza (eastern Grey Elf Rogue); LNg, Lvl. 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!

“Star Wars: Dark Times” Session 7 — “Banshee Weirdness”

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for Session 7 of Jason’s space opera miniseries, which Brian W. hosted in Newton, Mass., on Monday, 9 December 2013:

Player Character roster for Jason E.R.’s“Star Wars: Dark Times,” usingSavageWorlds, autumn 2013:

“Ekafti Acomar“ [Gene D.]-female Rhinnalian human Jedi consular, older diplomat with many contacts but few remaining friends
“Garolos Banku Nuruolos — Garos“ [Beruk A.]-male Chiss (blue-skinned humanoid) ex-Jedi, gambler and owner of the light freighter “Lucky Strike“
“Oong Bak“ [Brian W.]-male Duros (gray-skinned humanoid) honorable and talented mechanic
“Ari Sundar“ [Sara F.]-female Ssi-ruu (raptor-like reptile) military medic, outcast from a species intruding upon the galaxy
“Thayne Highlander“ [Bruce K.]-male human Jedi padawan close to knighthood, 19 years old; saw master killed by Order 66
“Tark Agros“ [Brian S.]-male Bakuran human pilot and noble, mildly delusional hotshot
“Tharg Thargsson“ [Rich C.G.]-male Gamorrean scoundrel and bounty hunter with connections to the Black Sun syndicate
“Max Power“ (MX-PR) [Rich C.G.]-male protocol droid with secret combat subroutine, ordered to protect Jedi (overrode Order 66); killed by Sith Bela Trepada on Bakura

“From the journals of Ekafti Acomar, 19 B.B.Y. (before the Battle of Yavin):” Strange times make for strange allies. On Bakura, we had rescued the leader of the Brotherhood, a mercenary organization composed of clone troopers of the old Republic and Mandalorians. Newcomer Tharg Thargsson had defeated Bela-Trepada, a “sister” clone of me turned to the Dark Side of the Force by the Galactic Empire.

We had no time to celebrate our victory, however, because Bal Grainer sent us a ransom demand for dancer Tootu Anga, the mother of mechanic Oong Bak. Grainer, the Rodian fixer associate of Garolos Banku Nuruolos, wanted 300,000 credits delivered to Nar Shaddaa, the Hutt homeworld’s largest moon.

Kass Tani, Tootu Anga’s betrothed, arrived from Duros via the fast ship “B6Z1.” Most blue-gray Durosians don’t name their vessels as other species do. I remembered Tani from our diplomatic service before Palpatine’s new order, and he was surprised to see me alive after Order 66, which had outlawed the Jedi.

Tani, who had invoked Biz Taar, brought a container of ancient soil from Duros. Oong prepared the oils and tubes for the Daar-Daar ritual, which needed to take place even in the absence of Tootu Anga. Oong also presented Tani with one of his tools as a token of welcoming him into his family.

The ritual took almost as long as Kass Tani’s trip to the Bakura system. Tani later told us that Bal Grainer had an estate in the Durosian sector on Nar Shaddaa and that, not surprisingly, he had a weakness for exotic women.

While our pilot Tark Agros was reluctant to leave the Lucky Strike, he was confident that he could pilot the swift B6Z1 through any threat posed by the Black Sun criminal syndicate.

Shortly thereafter, we arrived at Nar Shaddaa, the so-called Smuggler’s Moon. We went to the “Somewhere, Not Here” spacers’ bar. Tharg talked with two fellow Gamorreans, Baku and Shlarg, and learned about Soona the Hutt, a rival to Bal Grainer.

Ostensibly looking for a paying gig, Oong chatted with other Durosians to get his bearings and learn if anyone had seen his mother. We learned that Nar Shaddaa was unscathed by the virus that had affected the rest of the galaxy’s computer networks, no doubt because it was the source. Scout Ari Sundar and Jedi Thayne Highlander posed as our guards.

Tark talked with two other human pilots, a Falleen and Cutter Torsin. He had met the latter previously at the Grand Pelgar hotel. Torsin said he was working for insectoid Verpines, protecting a shipment of droid parts from G’hro to Chandrila.

A friendly brawl broke out among Tharg, Baku, and Shlarg. Garos placed bets while the rest of us left. Thayne, Tark, and Garos later went to the “Banshee Weirdness,” a private club and neutral ground for various Hutt factions. They found out that the membership fee was many thousands of credits.

After talking with hit woman Shamarra Zanab, we pursued two leads to obtain an audience with Soona the Hutt. Tharg offered his services as a disgruntled Gamorrean guard, while Garos and I pointed out that Bal Grainer’s need for money could be exploited as a weakness.

Soona had other ideas. She revealed that she had captured the “Seven Deadly Shadows,” assassins working for Grainer. If we posed as them and killed the Rodian gangster, we would get the resources we needed. While I had no intention of committing murder for hire, we agreed to Soona’s proposition since it would get us closer to rescuing Tootu Anga.

That night, Thayne had another vision. Endolana, the daughter of Jedi Master Ataru 25,000 years ago, was sick. I knew from the holocron that each of the Jedi masters whose daughters had disappeared resigned, leading to our order’s vow of celibacy.

According to Marala, daughter of Acomar and likely origin of myself and several clones, some of the girl’s essence was affected when the light saber of Shin-Wu Sorotai (Thayne’s late master) was examined.

I still hoped to find Ramoca, a lost clone, who was allegedly being held by the “Prophet of the Living Force.” Unfortunately, we’ve had to deal with Bakuran conspiracies and Bal Grainer’s ransom demands first.

We went to the Durosian quarter on Nar Shaddaa with Soona’s feathered headdress as supposed proof that we had assassinated her on Grainer’s behalf. IG-86 sentinel droids stood guard, and Grainer was surprised to find that we were the “Seven Deadly Shadows.”

In return for Soona’s headdress, we demanded Tootu Anga. The exchange went as planned, but impatient Tharg charged at the Rodian. Alas, his axe passed through Grainer’s hologram, but the droids were all too real….

Thanks again, Jason, for your generous holiday gifts, and I look forward to wrapping up this scenario (for now) tonight! May the Force be with us — always….

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Update 29.28 — “Who let the dogs out?”

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands” Session 39.28, which Rich C.G. hosted in Waltham, Mass., on Monday, 16 December 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; 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

“11 to 18 January 1227 B.C.E.:” The wanderers continued their inquiries into time travel at Falit’s towers of sorcery and the Dhao Soukh. After a successful performance at the caliph’s palace, Corwin followed an alluring woman and was poisoned.

Giacomo isn’t surprised at the Saganim (proto-Celtic) prince’s proclivities and perils. Hamfast keeps a casual watch, while Scully throws cold water in Corwin’s face, helping him regain his senses. The Bard tells the Ranger that the courtesan isn’t worth pursuing.

Meanwhile, Tempestade continues his deep theological discussions with Ladan Taleghani, a Suthern (proto-Arabic) human priestess of Kardikea, lord of battle. Sir Torrel has similar conversations about orders of holy warriors with Sister Jamilah, an Amarati Ghaffir of Ishmas (Elf Paladin of Isis).

Elsa has young guide Salim take her to the bazaar, where she commissions marionettes of herself and former Owlbear companion Oswald. The Hill Dwarf buys wine to present to Tarzu, a Djinni who might help Tempestade find his way home.

The next morning, the onetime circus performers go to the Tower of Wind, where they meet Tanaz Srinivasan, a wise Shedu Medjai (winged leonine summoner). She takes them up round ramps to meet Tarzu, who is blue and mostly friendly.

Tarzu accepts Elsa’s gift of wine and tells Tempestade that there are dimensional portals scattered across the “Vanished Lands.” The Djinni agrees to explain how to use an obelisk in the barbaric port of Gisar, but only if the group vows to free an Efreet (fire spirit) from a diabolic temple in the Zarendo Islands.

Corwin asks for time to consider Tarzu’s offer, and the adventuring party returns to the Tower of Sight. After getting past the eyeball-lined walls and a grumpy Beholder janitor, the visitors offer dinars (gold pieces) in return for more information from blind seeress Lydia.

She confirms that a Pit Fiend controls a temple formerly dedicated to the Elemental Plane of Fire on Mount Tilefa, an active volcano on Salhonif Island. Lydia also says that Tarzu is a being of his word.

According to Lydia, Queen Zapanga in the city-state of Selifa might be helpful, but the many tribes of the jungle archipelago are diverse, from devil-worshipping cannibals and Reptile Folk to relatively peaceful humans.

Giacomo recalls that “Valoren,” a man who knows about dimensional travel, may be found at the port of Laguro on Bokor Island, which is on the way to Selifa and Gisar. However, the western islands are ruled by Artaxis and Zineida, two black dragons.

The team scatters before its next audience with Tarzu. Hamfast visits taverns in the soukh, where the Zedu human Fighter’s formidable appearance as a foreigner wins him free drinks.

Mage Giacomo asks Darius Gaspar whether Vizier Govar al Sarseh was angry with them, but the Rangsten Sha’ir (Halfling Wizard) says that the caliph’s aide is usually worried about affairs of state. Giacomo also begins the taxing Summon Familiar ritual.

Ranger Scully tries to avoid Anpur (jackal men), but she attracts the attention of Dunewalker “Kemosh-ket” [Byron V.O./Non-Player Character]. The Kahin (Druid) is fascinated by the albino Gnoll and says that they are among the few civilized canines in the Halmed Desert. Kemosh offers to show Scully how to track Undead.

Tempestade visits various temples in his search for allies against evil and meets Elsa and Sir Torrel at the temple of Ishmas. Sister Jamilah introduces the trio to Mother Bakhret. The priestess gives Druid Elsa a Philter of Time, which provides guidance for dimensional travel.

Bakhret also agrees to place a holy protection on Sir Torrel’s shield, since his and Tempestade’s patron, Otih, lord of the sun and justice, is complementary to Ishmas, matron of magic. A green ankh is painted on the shield, repelling Undead (DC 14, rounds/level/day).

Hamfast is urged by children and drunkards to show off, so he slams his shoulder into a tavern wall, destroying some of the mud bricks. Hamfast catches a would-be pickpocket while paying the barkeep for the damage. He then decides to go look for his companions.

Corwin brings rare chocolates to a private audience with Tarzu. The Djinni admits that the Efreet, Lady Shadira, is a kinswoman. Tarzu says that the Pit Fiend trades in souls and has spies and prisoners hidden in alternate forms around Salhonif Island. An item of True Sight would be useful, he adds.

While comparing notes at dinner, Giacomo’s associates are unnerved when a Homunculus offers to serve them. Apparently, the Wizard’s Summon Familiar spell imbued one of his patchwork leather puppets with a spirit. “Gerald” is friendly, but Sir Torrel and others want nothing to do with him.

Hamfast is loath to travel through time, even if it is to rescue Tempestade’s fellow slaves from their Brazilian plantation. He plans to follow up on Vanaka (Dune Dwarf) Dorf Sandblaster’s recommendation of Antar the Black, captain of the Ghul’s Breath, as an alternative to Sea Elf Capt. Scarlet and the Foamrunner.

Scully mentions how she has met Kemosh, and Elsa teases her that Wolfen “Niac” [Mike F./N.P.C.] would be jealous. Corwin shares what he has learned about the Zarendo Islands, and Sir Torrel still hopes to meet more holy warriors. The Paladin is eager to confront the monsters at Mount Tilefa.

The former members of Vistel’s Circus agree to help Tarzu in return for information on the obelisk in Gisar. As Lydia predicted, the Djinni needs merely their word to give them the instructions. Lady Shadira can be freed if the object binding her is found and destroyed.

To activate the obelisk, each side must be read aloud simultaneously from top to bottom, the Djinni says. According to notes from the “Seekers of Lore” in Thadenis’ Harandrim Academy, the carvings are in Celestial, Draconic, Infernal, and Quelanthi (High Elven).

Giacomo recuperates from his ritual, and Elsa spends 150 dinar (g.p.) on aBanuq (winged cat) she names “Penryn.” The travelers rest and and train before their next voyage….

I’m glad that we were able to meet, despite recent snowstorms. Don’t forget to level up your P.C.s. By now, you may also have seen my mostly favorable review of The Hobbit [Part 2 of 3]: the Desolation of Smaug, and the “Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” telecom game should resume next Sunday. We’ll see whether “Vistel’s Circus” is able to meet on Dec. 30.

In the meantime, I look forward to wrapping up Jason E.R.’s “Star Wars: Dark Times” miniseries in advance of our return to his “Glassworks” superhero setting. I hope that all of your holidays are happy!

“Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” Session 40.4 — Inn trouble

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands” Session 40.4, which was held on Sunday, 8 December, 2013:

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. 1
“Toshiharu ‘Toshi’ Sembutsu” [Byron V.O.]-male Shan Sao Wu Jen (eastern Halfling Wizard) from the Tiger Clan with a destiny; NGc, Lvl. 1
“Ember Talon” [Sara F.]-female Crane Hengeyokai Wu (shapeshifting Druid), actually a young gold dragon banished from the Celestial Court; NGl, Lvl. 1
“Saigo Kasugi” [Bruce K.]-male Bamboo Spirit Folk Samurai (eastern Sylvan Elf Cavalier) discreetly serving his daimyo; LNg, Lvl. 1
“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. 1
“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

“10 to 11 March 1227 B.C.E.:” The would-be adventurers began their journey with an emissary from the empire of Gokuri to the capitals of their homelands. On the way, they encountered suspicious Kappa and visited a village along the Balef River.

eastern river village — On the banks of the Balef River

At the “Death’s Deck” tavern in Wai Shih, the travelers acquire rooms for the night. Sonny walks around the inn to make sure that it’s secure and that Lady Yun Aei-Yong, the Nannuattan diplomat, can’t leave without being seen.

Toshi finds a tree to keep watch from outside. In a common room, Ember notices two fellow Hengeyokai. Kajuji Manabu, a whiskered carp shaman, invites her to join him for prayers at an ancestral shrine the next morning. Aihara Naho, a Kitsune (fox) weaver, is one of the few female guests at the “Death’s Deck.”

Saigo is served tea and sake by Okubo Kita, a geisha. She performs music that fills the entire inn. Far from his meddling Uncle Manny, Soske’ is content to sip his sake alone and merely listen to the other patrons.

Moon Jung-Mo reserves a room for himself and makes sure that Ember is properly attended to. Since Lady Yun and her Draconian bodyguard Oh Kum-Ja won’t leave their room (and gear) unattended, the “Spirit Folk merchant” pays them a visit.

The Gokuri delegate asks Jung-Mo to find a musician. He goes to Saigo, but the Samurai won’t release Okubo. Jung-Mo and Saigo’s argument is interrupted as more people arrive at the tavern. Most of the local fishermen, loggers, and trappers head home for the night.

Sonny, who is on watch, and Ember, who is eating with Kajuji and Aihara, are the first to see the newcomers. Three giggling girls enter, followed by a few Shengtese and Tsucharim men. A tall being throws back his hood, revealing blue skin and three eyes.

Simakage Haruhiko, the Oni (Ogre Mage), sends innkeeper Ho Sze scrambling for rooms and drinks. Jung-Mo steps forward and offers a friendly greeting. Sonny and Ember hang back and watch, while Toshi changes into baza (bird) form and perches on a windowsill for a better look.

Saigo gets a massage from Okubo, and Soske’ tries to ignore the commotion. Lang Xiaoxuan, captain of the Angry Trout, says that he has brought a chef who will prepare food for all the guests. Lady Yun and Oh Kum-Ja leave their room to join the feast.

Jung-Mo goes to ask some Wolven about another musician, but he is distracted by Chol Byung-Soon, Chung Mi-Na, and Ri Myung-Hee. The stealthy exile notices that the Tsucharim women are well-muscled and carry naginatas (halberds).

Dao Ma Wu cooks dumplings, steamed vegetables, and rice noodles. Lady Yun, Oh Kum-Ja, Sonny, and Soske’ sit down to eat, but wary Ember and Jung-Mo decline. Saigo and Sonny listen for trouble. Simakage and the humans with him seem to suffer no ill effects.

However, Sonny sees Oh Kum-Ja signal Lady Yun, who pushes her food around but doesn’t eat it. Soske’ tastes a hint of poison, a precursor to an attack. Sonny jumps on the table and unfurls his kusari-gama (chain and sickle).

The Kensai swings his weapon at Simakage, Liang, and Kenmotsu Sadayoshi. Wu-Jen Toshi shifts back to Shan Sao form and enters the fracas. Shukenja Soske’ falls back to a corner, grasps prayer beads, and casts Protection From Evil.

Samurai Saigo scowls as he gets dressed and heads to join the fray. Wu Ember throws a dagger at the Oni, scratching him. Surrounded by the three women, Ninja Jung-Mo creates Darkness and dives out a window to go around to the front entrance.

The Ogre Mage swings at Ember but misses, and other tavern patrons flee before the human bandits. Oh Kum-Ja tries to lead Lady Yun away, but they are blocked by Chol, Chung, and Ri. The trio slashes the Draconian with its naginatas.

Liang and Kenmotsu draw zhibei dao (sabers) and square off with Soske’ and Sonny, who is hit but swings again at the Oni. Toshi casts Elemental Burst on the table, killing Kenmotsu. Soske’ draws his bow and tries to stay out of the other bandit’s reach. He kicks over a table and hits Liang with an arrow.

Saigo’s katana initially misses its mark against Simakage, and Ember Wild Shapesinto a panda bear. Jung-Mo hurls a boomerang-like Whippet, but the envenomed blade doesn’t bite into the Ogre’s hide. The three-eyed monster summons a swarm of rats, which crawl up through the broken floorboards and bite Sunny and Saigo.

Oh Kum-Ja and Lady Yun enter melee with the three women. After some misses, Liang renders Soske’ unconscious. Sonny entangles Simakage with his chain, and Toshi casts Magic Missiles, which appear as orange blades, at Chol, Chung, and Ri. The Wizard then heads to Soske’ and apologizes to Jung-Mo.

Samurai Saigo slashes at Simakage, and Jung-Mo stabs the Oni in the eyes with chopsticks. The large creature slams Sonny, knocking him out. Ursine Druid Ember circles the enraged Ogre and tells the rats to leave.

Lady Yun reveals herself as a Mahotsukai (Sorceress) by casting Chain Lightning from a scroll, killing Chol and Ri. Oh Kum-Ja finishes off Chung. Toshi throws dart shurikens to provide cover for his friends, and Saigo and Jung-Mo stab at Simakage.

Liang and Simakage go back to back as Toshi defends Soske’ and Sonny withTien Sha Pai (Red Cloud Kung Fu). Oh Kum-Ja slays Liang, and Saigo and Ember attack the Oni, who has been weakened by Lady Yun’s spell.

Jung-Mo finishes off Simakage with a wakizashi (short sword), and Ember searches for shaman Kajuji to help with the wounded. Saigo observes that cook Dao Ma Wu and other would-be assassins have fled and have likely gotten away on the Angry Trout.

Toshi and Jung-Mo dispose of the dead and confiscate naginatas, dao, leather armor, and several tantos (daggers). They also find 90 tael (180 gold pieces), a potion of Cure Moderate Wounds, and an unsigned note asking the Oni and company to intercept the delegation from Gokuri.

Kajuji tells Ember that even though Sonny and Saigo can be healed, they’ve been infected by the rats. The exhausted escorts rest in the ruined tavern before returning to the river….

It was great to see everyone online last night! I hope you enjoyed our latest session, and I look forward to continuing our perilous journeys.

In the meantime, I’ll see some of you at Jason E.R.’s “Star Wars: Dark Times” game tonight or at The Hobbit: the Desolation of Smaug this coming Sunday. Note that because of the movie and dinner, the next “Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” session may be delayed.