“Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” Update 40.1 — Walking with spirits

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished Lands” Session 40.1 on Sunday, 17 November 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. 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

“Saigo Kasugi” [Bruce K.]-male Bamboo Spirit Folk Samurai (eastern Sylvan Elf Cavalier) discreetly serving his daimyo; LNg, 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

“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

“Zhengyue, 1 to 2 March 1227 B.C.E.:” As winter snows start to melt in the Bamor Mountains, wanderers converge on the border village of Hazokuwi. Word of an impending truce between cruel Gokuri and the Zedu kingdom draws attention, not all of it friendly.

Sonny finds himself hiking northeast from the House of Xia monastery with Brother Jo, an overeager acolyte. The chain master is passing through the Balef River Valley when he observes military encampments around the village.

Meanwhile, Toshi rides his donkey Wako west and stops at the “Swimming Ki-Rin” in search of tea. The young Shan Sao notices that proprietress Dao Sun Lingjuan is a Nekojin (cat person). Toshi explains that he has been sent by his mentor, Kida Kaiu, a Wu Jen at the court of Bazran Hai.

Ember descends from the mountains with her horse and stops at the Swimming Ki-Rin for a meal. Toshi strikes up a conversation with the crane Hengeyokai. Ember says that she is a nature priestess far from her family.

Jung-Mo makes a grand entrance to Hazokuwi, arriving in a carriage with two young ladies. The Spirit Folk gentleman reserves the best room above the restaurant and notices Toshi’s tiger-print pants and Ember’s beauty. Jung-Mo offers the Wu tea and flowers, but she is wary of his friendliness.

Saigo rides west from Nanlung on warhorse Black Wind. His father, Gen. Hirokazu, tells the young Samurai to keep looking for his missing grandfather, Shinso, an agent for Zedu daimyo Hei Wan Ling. The Bamboo Spirit Folk arrive in Hazokuwi to meet with Gokuri representatives.

In search of his destiny, Soske’ arrives at the village with his well-meaning but nagging Uncle Manny. The old Bushi is determined to keep the Shukenja from harm, but they are both curious about the armies meeting under a flag of truce.

Toshi and Ember play a game of Pai Sho after dinner, attracting spectators including Vivek Ram, a Vanara (simian) soldier who roots for Toshi.

At the Zedu camp, Saigo and Gen. Hirokazu report to Gen. Shin Kyong-tsu. The Korobokuru (eastern Dwarf) is happy to see the Spirit Folk and shares his hopes for a lasting peace. Gen. Hirokazu isn’t sure it’s a good idea, but he gives Saigo leave for the night as the older officers catch up.

On his way into the village, Saigo watches as Prince Mutsuhito and his retinue arrive. The androgynous aristocrat recognizes his sister’s suitor and introduces Saigo to Baron Xin Pronunc Hu, a human delegate from Tong Sheng, and Zhou Li, a Samurai escorting them.

Saigo asks Baron Xin about the negotiations, but the noble declines to provide details other than that he plans to talk with the Spirit Folk generals and Lady Yun Aei-Yong, a Nannuattan from Gokuri, in the morning.

Baron Xin goes to talk with Gen. Hirokazu and Gen. Shin, leaving Saigo, Mutsuhito, and Zhou Li in search of drinks. At the Swimming Ki-Rin, Brother Jo and Uncle Manny are impressed by the newcomers.

Sonny suggests that Brother Jo and Uncle Manny go outside to compare fighting moves and war stories. Soske’ is grateful for a relatively quiet meal. Jung-Mo slips out during the carousing, giving Ember the impression that he’s up to something.

Toshi and Ember find that their tiles and skill are evenly matched in Pai Sho, and Zhou Li seems interested in the Hengeyokai. After the game, Toshi and Ember head to Soske’ and Sonny’s table to ask about a comment about destiny they had overheard.

Prince Mutsuhito gets drunk and abusive, so Saigo decides to take him back to camp. The night is cold and clear, and the village streets are empty. Sonny notices that it has been a while since he sent Brother Jo and Uncle Manny outside.

Saigo and Mutsuhito stumble out into the darkness, and Sonny, Ember, and Soske’ head out to look for the others. They find tracks leading to the stables and then back to the road. Toshi, Jung-Mo, and Zhou Li have apparently retired for the evening.

As Saigo helps Mutsuhito walk, he senses that they are being watched. The Samurai turns and sees Uncle Manny and Brother Jo following, but something isn’t right: They are floating, and their eyes are glowing!

Saigo sheathes his sword and swings at Brother Jo. Drunken Mutsuhito is evenly matched with Uncle Manny, jerking like a marionette. Soske’ uses a Positive Energy Burst to free Uncle Manny, who drops to the ground.

Ember casts Detect Magic and sees a faint spirit trail leading from Uncle Manny down a steep slope to the river. Brother Jo stabs at Ember with a cold blade but is wrapped by nimble Sonny’s chain. Mutsuhito swings wide.

Brother Jo is knocked back by swift Saigo, but pious Soske’s Protection From Evilhas no effect. Ember gracefully shifts to crane form and follows the trail to a boat, which has no oars or sail. An old woman appears to be huddled beneath a blanket.

Still restrained by Sonny’s chain, Brother Jo manages to kick Saigo. Prince Mutsuhito knocks down the possessed Monk, and Soske’s second Positive Energy Burst drives out the screeching spirit. Uncle Manny struggles to get to his feet.

Ember grabs the blanket, revealing three Bakemono (Goblin) summoners. She flies back to her companions, who agree to go with Saigo to the army camp for the night….

I hope that everyone enjoyed our first game! Let me know if you have any further questions about the setting or your characters. Byron, I hope you feel better, and good luck to Dexter and Beruk with your job situations.

Sara and Bruce, it was good to join you (and Josh and Janice) for “Thor 2: the Dark World” this past weekend, and I look forward to seeing some of you at tonight’s “Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” or Jason E.R.’s “Star Wars: Dark Times” next Monday. Our adventures are just beginning! -Gene

“Star Wars: Dark Times” Session 5 — Tram to trouble

Fellow role-players, here are Jason’s and my notes for Session 5 of his space opera scenario, which Brian W. hosted on Monday, 11 November 2013, in Newton, Mass.:

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” miniseries, 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):” The crew and passengers of the Lucky Strike had attended a garden party on Bakura, where I hoped to continue the diplomatic work I had begun for the old Republic. However, we were brutally reminded of how the galaxy has become an even more dangerous place.

Droid MX-PR, “Max,” sacrificed himself protecting recent padawan Thayne Highlander and me from Bela-Trepada, a powerful Sith and twisted copy of me. B-1E4, another protocol droid, had left Princess Tethys of Chandrila, another clone.

Meanwhile, medic Ari Sundar and pilot Tark Agros confronted Tolovo Nathu, yet another clone of mine whom we had been tracking on behalf of Bal Grainer, a Rodian bookie and associate of ex-Jedi Garolos Banku Nuruolos.

We staggered back to our hosts, since the party had been disrupted by vehicles flying overhead. Oong Bak attended to Thayne’s and my injuries, while Tark asked Bakuran head of state Grina Arden for other medical assistance. Princess Tethys seemed as oblivious as ever.

Ari and Tark sensed movement in the trumpet flower garden, where they saw droids hunting on behalf of an unnamed master. The droids sensed Tethys, as well as traces of Tolovo (who had gotten away), Bela, and me, so there was no mistaking whom they were looking for.

Garos shared with us an Imperial transmission that had beenintercepted weeks ago. Imperial scouts had learned that the Chiss Ascendancy (Garos’ home space) included twice as many worlds than it claimed, and they requested military support.

In combination with the list that we had obtained of surviving Jedi — and Jedi clones — being hunted, it was clear that the Chiss were competing with Palpatine’s new order to gain control over or eliminate me and my peers.

We added the Chiss to our growing list of enemies, including the empire, the Sith, Bakuran cloners and arms dealers, Krevaaki zealots, and Ssi-ruuk invaders. We also believed that the Hutts and Black Sun criminal syndicate were responsible for a virus that had shut down most computer networks.

But first, we had to deal with more immediate concerns. Tark talked with weapons designer Juris Keel, who agreed to take Garos, Thayne, and me to Salis D’aar, the Bakuran capital. On the way, however, a Mind Read determined that Keel wasn’t thinking about getting us to a hospital.

Instead, I had a vision of the Bakuran human sitting in a room full of Separatist droids watching video of Thayne and his late master Shin-wu Sorotai fighting. Garos and Thayne subdued and restrained Keel, who was working with the insectoid Verpine, as well as supposedly against the “droid menace.”

We took Keel’s speeder back to the rest of our crew at the Lucky Strike ’s landing pad. Oong, Ari, and Tark had repelled an attack droid and confiscated its stun blades, which Garos discovered could be tuned to be short force blades.

Garos also found a Gamorrean enforcer for Bel Grainer waiting for us at the pad. Through a mix of bargaining and traded insults, we persuaded burly Tharg Thargsson not to attack us in return for information about Tolovo.

While Oong easily repaired our ship, he was unable to do the same for Max. Sharp-eyed Ari spotted a restraining bolt on Keel. The Duros removed it, incapacitating the android, which was nearly indistinguishable from a human. How many of the people on Bakura were droids or clones, and whom did they serve?

Tark asked his racing buddy Roviden Belden to help us get into the “Lesser Grace” spaceport, an exclusive retreat for Bakura’s elite. We hoped to rest there and devise a plan to fight the Sith and shut down the cloning operations.

We were interrupted when a group of Mandalorians found us. Foxdi Zess and two armored troopers had Tolovo with them, but she was badly wounded. Foxdi explained that my clone had sought out the mercenary Brotherhood, which was composed of clones of soldiers from the Mandalorian Death Watch (enemies of the Jedi) as well as the Grand Army of the Republic.

Tolovo offered a Kaminoan vaccine against a Separatist virus that would extend the clones’ lifespans. Unfortunately for her, the Brotherhood had been taken over by Griz Starfire. Thayne was surprised to hear the name of the clone trooper (Clone Commander Starfire) who had turned on Shin-wu.

Garos realized that it was Griz who had offered to sell Shin-wu’s light saber to Bal Grainer. Even though we called off our deal with the Rodian, we were able to persuade Tharg to continue working with us. Bal Grainer also noted that Chandrila hadn’t been a monarchy for 25,000 years, calling into question Princess Tethys’ story.

We agreed to help Zess sneak into Gesco City to rescue deposed leader Calo Zythor. A failed colony, this far northern base of the Brotherhood was protected by ray shielding, so we ultimately decided on a maglev subtram to get through. Thayne was anxious to recover his master’s weapon.

The Bakuran authorities set a reward for the missing Juris Keel, so I asked Tharg call Capt. Blaine Harris to tell him that Keel could be found near Gesco City. I hoped to set the military police against the Brotherhood and slip in during the confusion.

We left two Mandalorians to guard Princess Tethys and a weak Tolovo at the Lucky Strike. Mechanic Oong and pilot Tark took the front car of the automated train. I meditated and sensed that Bela-Trapada (who was on the Chiss list) was at Gesco City. More bad news.

Thayne used telekinesis to send a guard probe away, but Tark noticed something ahead on the scanner just as we reached the shielded base. A Mandalorian clone riding a Basilisk war droid blocked our path. Bakuran Tark shot out the train’s controls, as the rest of us headed to the windows.

The Basilisk’s shockwave cannon destroyed the front of the subtram as we jumped out. Duros Oong and Gamorrean Tharg swung down the same rope, and Chiss Garos jumped to a maglev ring. Tark and “our” Mandalorians flew around with their jetpacks, but one perished. I activated Force Cloak and slid down dispensed liquid cable.

Thayne swung to the roof of a falling train car, and Ssi-ruu Ari slipped until she grabbed the ring. Foxdi shot at the Basilisk. I sought shelter among the rocks. Tark descended to cover, and Ari and Garos clung to the collapsing ring support.

I used Hear My Thoughts to tell Garos where to find a line, and he kissed Ari for luck as they swung down. Foxdi was hurled into a nearby cliff, and Tharg caught her. Tark and Ari hit the droid-riding sentry, but Garos’ shots didn’t penetrate its armor.

Ever cautious, Oong hid behind a different rock from me. I usedBattle Mind to help Thayne, who blasted the clone, dropping him 100 feet. Tharg frenzied and finished him off with his vibro axe. Ari took the trooper’s pistol and attended to Foxdi’s wounds.

Tharg was going to throw the Mandalorian over his shoulder, but Ari was a more careful bearer. We walked through the empty subtram station, and Foxdi directed us toward the Brotherhood’s headquarters. We saw an Imperial shuttle and prepared for another battle.

On a balcony overlooking a broad plaza, we saw a group of people in Mandalorian armor, no doubt members of the clone Brotherhood. They were facing off with a robed Sith and her guards. My clone Bela-Trapada was negotiating with usurper Griz Starfire over the light saber of fallen Jedi master Shin-wu Sorotai.

We knew we were outnumbered, and we needed to get past the two factions to release Calo Zythor. I recommended a diversion. Garos ran ahead and threw a grenade, blowing up four Mandalorians. He and I ran toward the holding cells.

Tharg started jogging, and Tark shot two more guards. Oong ran for cover beneath the catwalks, and Ari and Foxdi ran forward, dodging Mandalorian fire.

Impetuous Thayne shot at Griz. I’ll have to remind him that revenge is not the Jedi way. Even though she nearly killed me, I have to admit a bit of disappointment when Bela and her force pike-wielding entourage left the scene with Shin-wu’s light saber.

Griz drew a darksaber (once owned by Pre Viszla, the head of Death Watch or Kyr’tsad) and jumped down to face us. Ari shot at him with a heavy blaster, but Griz still hurt Thayne and Tharg. Garos wounded Griz, and Tharg grabbed Oong and killed a Mandalorian on the way.

Oong shook off his injury, and I managed to hit Griz with my light saber. Tark shot another Mandalorian clone, and Thayne defeated Griz. Now all we had to do was find Calo and get out without getting caught in more crossfire….

“Strange Tales From Chicago,” Session 4 — “Earl of crime”

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for our fourth “Drop Squad” telecom session, which was held on Sunday, 10 November 2013:

Player Characters for “Strange Tales From Chicago,” Geoff C.’s street-level superhero game, using FATE Accelerated Edition (FAE), Skype, and an online dice roller:

“Fightin’ Fritz” [Gene D.]-male human, flashy Tank, wants to pound knuckleheads, knows all the brawlers about town
“Capt. Grommet” [Beruk A.]-machine whisperer, wants to get back at the man; knows lots of techies
“The Crocodile” [Byron V.O.]-old tough guy, wants to clean up the city and get paid
“Dr. Occult” [Josh C.]-master of occult, seeking enlightenment; knows stage magicians
“Angel of the Night” [Sara F.]-gargoyle-themed guardian of the city, lives above a library

Chicago, “4 to 6 October 1982:” After chasing leads across the city, the flamboyant private investigators had connected a case of tainted drugs to a mysterious shapeshifter named Earl and the Giovanni crime family.

The team discusses its next moves at the “Drop Spot.” Capt. Grommet contacts Officer Fine, who says that he can hold Earl only temporarily because of circumstantial evidence. Fine also explains that the police can’t raid a mob warehouse because of some “prior arrangement.”

The “Drop Squad” still decides to return to the warehouse where guards had shot at the Angel of the Night. The crime-fighting consultants suit up, with Fightin’ Fritz and Dr. Occult putting on capes and their companions grabbing guns to end things “the Chicago way.”

The team stops for “cheezeborgers” at the Billy Goat Tavern on the way. The Crocodile parks a block away from the warehouse in question so Grommet and Angel can scout ahead. The gargoyle-themed adventuress stealthily climbs to the roof, while the machine whisperer interferes with security cameras.

Capt. Grommet uses a grapple gun to follow Angel. He then uses a yo-yo to ensnare a sentry, dangling him over the side of the building before tying him up and gagging him. The daring duo then peeks into the Giovanni warehouse and sees about 20 men inside. Some are in suits and head into a meeting room, while others wait near parked town cars and a truck.

Fritz, Dr. Occult, and Croc wait out in the car and listen to Grommet and Angel’s progress via walkie-talkie. Angel creates a diversion by climbing up to a smoke detector and setting off a fire alarm and sprinklers.

The Crocodile and Fightin’ Fritz shove some dumpsters to try to block vehicles from leaving the warehouse. The Angel of the Night searches crates but finds only packing peanuts. Capt. Grommet jumps onto the moving truck, as goons pull guns.

The men in suits start to drive off, and clever Dr. Occult throws powder onto their windshields. Croc happily hurls cinderblocks to slow the getaway cars, and mighty Fritz pounds knuckleheads, who soon surround him.

Gadgeteer Grommet throws marbles, but the mobsters evade them. Agile Angel ducks under one auto to slash its tires. Fritz gets winged but uses one henchman as a shield against potential gunshots. Dr. Occult ends up on top of the same car as Croc, who is unable to pull a criminal out the window.

Several felonious minions tackle Fritz, and Capt. Grommet takes out a gunsel with his ball-bearing pistol. They overhear a radio squawking that “the canary has left.” Fritz throws off one of his attackers and radios Angel to search the area.

Meanwhile, Croc and Dr. Occult try to hang on as one Mafioso tries to drive off. Dr. Occult manages to choke him out, and Croc throws rocks at the remaining guards. Capt. Grommet grabs a car and runs down some of the goons.

Fritz switches “dance partners” and is grateful when Capt. Grommet and Angel come to his aid. Croc and Dr. Occult drive in with another seized vehicle and knock down the last batch of bad guys.

The “Drop Squad” ties up the suspects and leaves them in vans for the police. Luigi Giovanni reveals under Dr. Occult’s hypnosis that the five of his men who got away are heading to a major pharmaceutical factory with Earl and high-grade toxins.

Dr. Occult calls Officer Fine, and the P.I.s pile into the “Dropmobile.” Capt. Grommet burns rubber to get to the facility. There, they find Earl ranting about how the entire city must suffer because his friend, a well-known philanthropist, was shot by police in a raid gone wrong.

Fightin’ Fritz engages Earl in conversation while the Crocodile circles around. Capt. Grommet shuts off a valve on a vat, and Dr. Occult looks for more mobsters or local security. The Angel of the Night tries to sneak up to the catwalk, but Earl grabs her and slams her down.

Fritz flips up, but Earl tosses him aside. The shapeshifter drops vials into the vat, which is secure but still starts emitting noxious fumes. Croc kicks Earl in the chest, but the man, who alternates in appearance from a burly blond to a slight Asian-American, seems unaffected.

Capt. Grommet finally figures out how Earl keeps changing his appearance and disrupts his hologram generator. Earl is revealed as a blobby green alien! Mostly unfazed, the “Drop Squad” tries to capture the malefactor.

Croc hits Earl with a wrench, but the creature easily dodges it. Fritz drops to the floor and kicks out the catwalk support in the hope of dumping Earl into the vat. Dr. Occult tries to swing clear but gets caught on the edge of the vat. Angel heads to his rescue with a salvaged pool cue.

Dr. Occult feels the chemicals burning through his shoes, and Angel helps him to safety. Croc tries to block Earl’s escape and is slimed for his efforts. Fritz kicks out a second catwalk, but Earl slithers out a second-story window toward blinking lights.

Croc dives after the alien and into its spherical, liquid-filled craft. Fritz crashes out a window, as Dr. Occult throws a rope around the spaceship. Unfortunately, both it and Croc pass through the gelatinous mess.

Good nyborg, dude! — Spherical space ship

Earl swears revenge and flies away. Officer Fine arrives to take custody of the mobsters, and the “Drop Squad” goes to the police station to talk to the Earl in lockup. He — or more properly, his suit — melts away.

While the vigilantes have solved the mystery of the adulterated drugs and prevented the city from being poisoned, they have little to show for their success. Their reward money goes to pay for damages at the pharmaceutical factory, and though there are fewer mobsters in the warehouse district, they have made an alien enemy….

Thanks again, Geoff, for the fun scenario! I thought it was a good demonstration of the “FAE” rules, and the retro feel worked well. I wouldn’t be surprised if we returned to these heroes at some point….

In the meantime, I’ll see some of you at tonight’s “Star Wars: Dark Times” game, and I look forward to starting our “Vanished Lands: A New Dawn” fantasy telecom campaign next Sunday, Nov. 17.

“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.

“Strange Tales From Chicago” Session 3 — Chasing Earls

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for the third “Drop Squad” telecom session, which was held on Sunday, 3 November 2013:

Player Characters for “Strange Tales From Chicago,” Geoff C.’s street-level superhero game, using FATE Accelerated Edition, Skype, and an online dice roller:

“Fightin’ Fritz” [Gene D.]-male human, flashy Tank, wants to pound knuckleheads, knows all the brawlers about town
“Capt. Grommet” [Beruk A.]-machine whisperer, wants to get back at the man; knows lots of techies
“The Crocodile” [Byron V.O.]-old tough guy, wants to clean up the city and get paid
“Dr. Occult” [Josh C.]-master of occult, seeking enlightenment; knows stage magicians
“Angel of the Night” [Sara F.]-gargoyle-themed guardian of the city, lives above a library

>>Chicago, “3 to 4 October 1982:” The “Drop Squad,” an eccentric group of private investigators, had helped the Chicago police look into tainted medicine. Our would-be heroes had followed leads from a pharmacy to the warehouse district.

The team followed four goons from the “Salty Dog” bar and confronted them. The quartet claimed that someone named “Earl” had hired them. However, the well-dressed man proved difficult to find because witness descriptions didn’t match between official records of charity events, Bernie’s Diner, and the “Old Watch House,” a high-end brothel.

The Drop Squad finally catches a break, spotting Earl at Bernie’s Diner. Figthin’ Fritz and Capt. Grommet head to their car, while the Crocodile steps outside and throws a ketchup bottle. Unfortunately, he hits an old woman on the crowded city streets.

The Angel of the Night, who has been watching from a nearby rooftop, jumps and glides in pursuit of the man in the suit. Dr. Occult gives chase on foot, following Earl into an alley.

Croc hops into the “Dropmobile,” which weaves through evening rush-hour traffic in an attempt to outmaneuver the suspect. Dr. Occult throws a lasso, but Earl is slippery. Angel climbs a wall to get the drop on the blond man.

Fritz, Croc, and Capt. Grommet smash through a pane of glass, knock over a fruit stand, and catch some air as their car burns rubber through Chicago’s streets. Croc hurls a set of headphones at Earl, who simply slides over the hood.

Earl enters a building, and Grommet takes the wheel so that Fritz and Croc can get out. Croc rips open a door, and he and Dr. Occult head to the basement. Fritz circles around the block to keep an eye on rear exits, while Angel descends.

Despite sporadic walkie-talkie contact, the P.I.s tighten their noose. Dr. Occult briefly slows Earl, as Croc runs down a spiral staircase to join them.

Meanwhile, outside, Fritz finds an acquaintance named Steve who mentions that there is an off-limits door from the basement leading into the sewers. Fritz and Angel head down.

Dr. Occult and Croc jump on Earl and tie him up. However, he now appears to be a slight Asian-American, if in the same suit! Earl recognizes Dr. Occult from one of his charity gigs, but nobody can explain the shift in appearance.

Croc, Dr. Occult, and Capt. Grommet take Earl to Office Fine at the police station. Fritz and Angel follow Steve’s directions into the sewers. Their hunch that Earl knew of it as a getaway route prove correct when they reach an outlet into the bay.

Croc watches Earl’s interrogation, but the suspect isn’t communicative. Capt. Grommet confirms the sewer route after talking with some engineer friends, and he and Dr. Occult meet Fritz and Angel back on the street.

At Croc’s request, Officer Fine has threads from Earl’s suit tested, but they reveal nothing about his strange ability to change appearance. When Earl asks for his lawyer, the Chicago police have no evidence to hold him.

The Drop Squad picks up another lead and visits Irwin Reginald, a civil servant and the brother of accountant Irwin Regis. He admits approving incomplete forms for public events for Earl, who bribed him regularly. Irwin’s description of his benefactor is yet another version.

Mr. Giovanni escorts the suspect back to freedom, and Dr. Occult is disturbed by so many Earls. However, the Drop Squad soon learns that Earl’s lawyer is a member of a local crime family, at whose warehouse guards fired at Angel a few nights before.

In addition, Lucille from the “Old Watch House” contacts Croc. She says that Earl had been doing public relations for the mob and that he left a bag at the brothel. The group picks it up and finds medicine bottles, which it immediately turns over to the police lab.

The Drop Squad prepares to return to the warehouse district in the hope of tracking down the tainted drugs and the mystery of the multiple Earls….