“Vortex: Terra’s Pride” Update 5c.25, 26 — Cache and cultist

Fellow role-players, here is my update for Sessions 5c.25 and 26 of the “Vortex” telecom space opera campaign, which met via Skype on 24 February and 3 March 2013. We’ve been using FATE 3e Starblazer Adventures /MindjammerBulldogs, and an online dice roller.

In one future, humanity has begun to colonize the Sol system, but environmental degradation, population pressures, and internecine conflict persist. The rediscovery of mystical abilities and open and official First Contact with galactic societies, themselves at war, threaten Terra’s very survival. Can heroes rise to the challenges?

“Vortex” Team 5c (3) Player Character rosters: Crew of the yacht Pina Colada:

  • Capt. Jasmine” [Sara F., primary]-female Martian Felinoid “Synth” (“Uplifted” tiger), former pit fighter and crewmember of the Appomattox, now captain of the Pina Colada searching for a homeworld for her people
  • Hector Chavez” [Beruk A., primary]-male Terran human, former spy and crewmember on theAppomattox, cautious engineer and communications expert
  • Chris McKee /Agent Prometheus” [Josh C., primary]-male Terran human, former assassin for the eugenicists at Black Box Security Co., sniper and seeker aboard the Blackbird and Pina Colada
  • Orion Starchaser” [Geoff C., primary/absent]-male Pomuyan (blue telepathic humanoid alien), irrepressible mystic and thrill-seeking galactic hitchhiker
  • Dr. Srinu Pahul” [Byron V.O., primary]-male Terran “near-human” (genetically modified) xenobiologist, curious and confident planetary patriot; with robots MEGAN and PEPE
  • Lt.Cmdr. Kevin Reese” [Bruce K., primary]-male Terran “near-human” (cyborg), former Interplanetary Patrol officer and member of the Blackbird and Dauntless crews; defender of the homeworld
  • Chiron” [Dexter V.H., primary/absent]-male (secretly android) pilot, assigned to assess and protect humanity

Crew of the refitted experimental scout ship Blackbird:

  • Lt. Sebastian Growlick” [Bruce K., secondary]-male Felinoid “Synth” (“Uplifted” lion), elite soldier and acting commander of the refitted Blackbird
  • Tela” [Sara F., secondary]-female Tharian (gargoyle-like alien), escapee from the Encegulans (slug-like slavers), fond of humans; engineer with boyfriend Kedar
  • Tariq Asrad Saladin” [Beruk A., secondary]-male Terran “near-human” (mutant) wanderer with a past, investigator
  • Lord Wallace Tubbington” [Josh C., secondary]-male Olvar (arboreal, mammal-like alien) swashbuckler and diplomat for the Kharvamid Alliance
  • Brun” [Geoff C., secondary/absent]-male Martian Ursoid “Synth” (“Uplifted” bear), former wrestler, pilot
  • Sgt. Nathan A. Jessup” [Byron V.O., secondary]-male Terran human, gung-ho member of the North American Aerospace Marine Corps
  • Enkidu Aristheon” [Dexter V.H., secondary/absent]-male Seranen (pale empathic humanoid alien) exile, wilderness survival expert curious about Terrans and the Zarkonian threat; with sphinx-like companion Glaucon

See other records for the previous crews of the Blackbird, Appomattox, and Gryphon.

Phobos, moon of Mars
Mars’ moon Phobos

“10 to 17 July 2195 A.D./C.E. or 1 Terran Galactic Era:” While the explorers aboard the Blackbird first ventured into interstellar space, the grifters aboard the Appomattox had obtained a cargo of items taken from the Vatican Museums. Rather than deliver the artifacts near Epsilon Eridani, the smugglers had hid them in deep space.

Months later, the “Terra’s Pride” task force, including crew members from the Appomattox and Blackbirdreturned to find the Plutonium Hammer retrieving containers on behalf of Intersystems Salvage. The Pina Colada encountered a Nolath-Kutalrin vessel also seeking the Vatican relics.

“Terra’s Pride” escorted the Plutonium Hammer and its contents back to Ganymede in the Jovian Commonwealth, where it learned that Kolidari, a dangerous Octopoid (bioengineered cephalopod), was involved.

The Pina Colada and Blackbird boldly seized the contested cargo from an Intersystems Salvage warehouse in New Havana and retreated to a former Black Box Security Co. base in the Asteroid Belt. The group examined the items, hoping to find mystical meaning, historical or trade significance, and defenses against the approaching Zarkonian Armada.

Hector Chavez suggests a “reverse heist,” returning the relics to a proper authority to divert those hunting them and the treasure. The former spy also recommends that his companions work out a private set of signals and passphrases.

Dr. Srinu Pahul prepares versions of the cargo manifest for various museums. Capt. Jasmine suggests sending one to the arachnid Nolath and avoiding gangster Kolidari, as well as onetime colleagues in “MarSoupAiL” (shell company Mars Soup Aid Lenders Ltd.).

Lt.Cmdr. Kevin Reese and Chris McKee say they’d prefer to turn over everything to the Union of Solar Nations (U.S.N.) in the name of homeworld security. While some of their crewmates want to claim a few items for themselves, explorers Chiron and Enkidu Aristheon assert that everything belongs in a museum.

After some debate, the members of “Terra’s Pride” agree to deliver most of the artifacts to the authorities rather than to other smugglers or mysterious alien traders. The task force decides against going to Fort Olympus Mons on Mars.

Hector tells Jasmine and company to warn people such as her ex-boyfriend Darcy to be careful, since his handler Max told him that several other parties were hunting for the cargo.

On the Pina Colada, Capt. Jasmine studies the Televalutor, an ancient astrogation device. Hector takes a few Spanish doubloons as potential bargaining chips, and scientist Srinu claims the Ring of Andeleb, which can protect against Zurmiz Krott nanites. Sniper Chris grabs the Gem of Focus.

Kevin tries on the chain Coif of Egg Shen against mental attacks. Pomuyan mystic warrior Orion waits for Hector to repair a plasma sword hilt and reads a fragment of the Second Imperial Encyclopedia Galactica.

Chiron declines his share of the booty [getting a Fate point instead] and makes a redacted copy of the cargo manifest for Dr. Martha Liao, a xenobiologist at the Terran science academies.

From the Blackbird, Lt. Sebastian Growlick dons the Sash of Giganta, which enhances strength, but engineer Tela also declines a share [and gets another Fate point]. Tariq Asrad Saladin determines that the Bow of Indra fires charged arrows.

Lord Wallace Tubbington III waits for Tela to forge him a katana to put into the Scabbard of Musashi. Lt. Nathan A. Jessup takes a replica of an ancient Chinese dagger as a souvenir, and Enkidu Aristheon is given a crystal that amplifies his psionic abilities. Brun claims…?

In addition, Hector recommends keeping some of the Trojan gold in party stores. Before getting under way, Kevin and Chris switch ships with Sebastian and Wallace. Lt.Cmdr. Reese rejoins his military crew on the Blackbird, as Lt. Growlick hangs out with fellow Felinoid, Capt. Jasmine, on the Pina Colada.

The former “Agent Prometheus” compares tactical notes with pilot Brun, while Lord Tubbington talks about galactic tourism with Orion and Chiron. Hector and Tela coordinate microjumps into Transit (faster than light) and mask ion trails to confuse potential pursuers.

The Pina Colada takes the bulk of the artistic and mythic objects from the Vatican horde to the United Ecumenical Movement (U.E.M.) temples on Phobos, a moon of Mars. Sebastian, Hector, and Wallace disembark, while Capt. Jasmine, Srinu, Chiron, and Orion stay on the ship and on the radio.

The new arrivals are greeted in the docking bay by Sister Philippa, a Buddhist chaplain who doesn’t recognize Dr. Pahul. Disguised as “Dr. Prabhakar Swapan Mullur,” he and the crew of the Gryphon previously broke out three Synth Liberation Front detainees from the temples.

Mighty Jasmine helps unload the precious cargo, while Sebastian recognizes his brother Castillian, a notorious pirate just happening to visit Phobos on family business. The leonine “Synth” explains that Ms. Helen Gastmeyer had recommended asking U.E.M. contacts for help getting a seat on the colonial parliament.

Wary Hector recognizes Ms. Gastmeyer as someone “MarSoupAiL” had dealt with back on Earth. Meanwhile, Wallace (wearing Musashi’s scabbard) wanders into the temple precincts, where the Olvar meets several interesting humans.Brother Abel notices Lord Tubbington’s long coat and challenges him to a duel, but the swashbuckler is called away by Hector.

Sebastian and Wallace rush back to Jasmine to help escort the cargo to a secure archive. Srinu and Hector have Sebastian recommend that Sister Philippa try on the Diadem of Theodora. She uses it to perceive the auras of those around her.

Brother Nelvin nervously asks to be excused. Lt. Growlick and Lord Tubbington follow the friar, who takes an unexpected turn in the hallway. They confront Nelvin, who refuses to cooperate. Sebastian reaches for a gun and knocks him out. The lieutenant carries the robed cleric.

Aboard the Pina Colada, Hector notices an energy spike from a personal force screen, as Srinu watches for reinforcements for Nelvin. Impatient Jasmine dons space armor and runs to help Sebastian and Wallace.

Lt. Growlick takes Nelvin’s belt and contacts Sister Philippa to get clearance to bring the prisoner to the yacht. Capt. Jasmine gives the order to leave, but Wallace and Hector aren’t aboard.

Wallace has gone to a gift shop to look for a katana, while Hector searches Nelvin’s quarters. He finds spare power cells for the personal force field and a holdout needler loaded with sedatives, odd items for a monk.

Back on the Pina Colada, Dr. Pahul restrains the supposedly ill Brother Nelvin for interrogation and conducts a medical scan. The doctor finds a cranial implant more advanced than Black Box models, and Hector jams its transmissions. Jasmine recommends that Orion conduct a mind wipe if needed.

Wallace asks Nelvin about his allegiances in return for an offer of clemency. Nelvin surprises everyone by saying that the U.E.M. and “Terra’s Pride” are deluded if they think they can save Terrans from the Zarkonian Armada. He says they “should ally with the coming darkness.”

Sebastian sends Jasmine and Srinu’s robot nurse MEGAN out of sickbay. Srinu and Wallace go get a drink. The remote observers fear that Sebastian will harm Nelvin, but the cunning lieutenant feigns sympathy. The brother reveals that Ms. Gastmeyer can be found at Wolf 359, a nearby solar system.

Hector and Sebastian realize that Castillian’s presence at the behest of Ms. Gastmeyer, Brother Nelvin’s participation in a Zarkonian cult, and their own delivery of the Vatican cargo is no coincidence. Even though they’d prefer to space the enemy spy, Srinu and Sebastian agree that he might yet prove useful.

Dr. Pahul and Lt. Growlick warn Sister Philippa that Brother Nelvin has been compromised. Hector successfully hacks into his cranial implant and transmits the codes to the U.E.M. Sister Philippa reluctantly agrees to tighten security and covertly monitor Nelvin in the hope of learning more.

Sebastian gives Nelvin’s belt to Hector, and Wallace takes the needler. Srinu and Chiron record documentation. ThePina Colada sets out from Phobos to rendezvous with the Blackbird in the Asteroid Belt.

Lt.Cmdr. Reese has contacted his superior, Col. Shan Gray of the Interplanetary Patrol. The Blackbird brings part of the Vatican treasure to “Ilokar” battle group, commanded by Adm. Jacques Pons….

Dexter and Geoff, I’m sorry that you missed our latest session. Dex, I hope that you had a Happy Birthday! I’ve updated your P.C. records to reflect the distribution of items/stunts and Fate points, but let me know if you have any additional changes.

I hope to eventually rejoin Jason E.R.’s “Barsoomian Adventures: the Tenth Ray of Mars,” and I look forward to next Monday’s “Vanished LandsVistel’s Circus” fantasy game. I’ll see you at tomorrow night’s “Vortex” telecom session — don’t forget Daylight Saving Time! -Gene

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Update 39.9 — Time to get smacked

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for “Vanished LandsVistel’s Circus” Session 39.9, which Brian W. hosted at his home in Newton, Mass., on Monday, 25 February 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 theBasic Fantasy Role-Playing Game, as of spring 2013:

  • Hamfast Hammerfist [Brian W.]-male Zeda human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 2
  • Corwin Windsong [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 2
  • Elsa Fairbottom [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with owlbear cub “Oswald”; NGc, Lvl. 2
  • Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane [Beruk A./absent]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) and stage seer, embittered by experiences in Hesolin’s Magisterium; NGc, Lvl. 2
  • Scully Strongbow [Sara F./absent]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 2
  • Tempestade [Josh C./departed]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), roustabout; CGl, Lvl. 2
  • Radius [Jason E.R./departed]-male Modron Paladin of Primus, lord of Nirvana; exiled to the Prime Material plane; LGn, Lvl. 1
Dragon Magazine cover
Performers and peasants

“26 to 28 February 1228 B.C.E.:” In the Saganim (proto-Celtic) human village of Nobb, performers from Vistel’s Circus had met “Pita ‘Ol’ Pete’ Arborson” [Dan A./Non-Player Character]. The Barbari human Ollave agreed to guide them on a quicker path toward Thadenis, capital of Saganim.

On the way southwest, scouts from the caravan found two small but vicious outposts of Orcs and wargs from the nefarious kingdom of Zuromm. The circus troupe made a forced march through wintery woods to the hamlet of Baln.

Circus founder Orlando Vistel notes that the community is too small to be worth setting up for a full show. Corwin, Hamfast, and Elsa go to the “Sanir’s Trumpet” pub, where they try a variety of brews recommended by barkeep Angus.

“Melody” [Lori K.S./N.P.C.], a Skaevingol human Skald (Scandinavian-style Bard) in [former “Seeker of Lore”] Ol’ Pete’s retinue, performs a song from her homeland. Corwin plays his mandolin, and Gnome inventor Ashkator Bibbleshins joins in with his accordion.

Strongman Hamfast offers to wrestle the diminutive Gnomes in the pub for a round of drinks, as brewer Elsa samples the local ale, Fey wine, and Gnomish cordials. Hamfast returns to the wagons to help drovers Cerdwyn mab Ardain and Baskor Steadyhand set up and guard the camp.

Ol’ Pete’s young apprentice Caleb accompanies Elsa as the Druid feeds Oswald, her Owlbear cub, as well as other animals. Corwin warns Angus about the Orcs and invites Melody up to his room.

The next morning, Elsa overhears Ol’ Pete lecturing Melody about protecting her virtue, and Corwin avoids Tamara bint Yasmina, a dancer in the circus and onetime paramour. Elsa goes to console Melody, while Ol’ Pete confronts Corwin.

The Bard promises that he won’t hurt Melody and that he would take care of her and any potential children. Ol’ Pete is placated, and Elsa says that although she admires his paternal instincts, Ol’ Pete should give his followers more freedom.

The Saganim peasants and Gnomes of Baln bid a fond farewell as Vistel’s Circus departs. Scouts Scully and Ivy (another of Ol’ Pete’s band) walk ahead of the wagons. Giacomo studies spells in the tinkerer’s cart of the late Necromancer from the Sable clan, while Tempestade shivers and stays close to the other roustabouts.

Hamfast asks Ol’ Pete if there’s anything interesting in Thadenis, since he has never been in a city before. The Ollave mentions temples and arenas, the supposedly haunted Isle of Grief, and numerous bars. Ivy refers Elsa to the Royal Society for Exploration and Cartography.

Corwin asks Mama Vistel for hair dye and shaves his goatee. The Half-Elf reveals that “Corwin Windsong” is not his true name and that he is familiar with the capital of the kingdom of Saganim. Elsa concludes that he must be an exiled or disgraced noble.

Scully and Ivy signal the wagon train to halt and bring Hamfast, Corwin, and Elsa to a grim discovery. The Gnoll and Grugach (Wild Elf) have found the frozen bodies of three Sylvan Elves and seven Orcs. There are signs of magic, but no identifying heraldry on either side. If any Orcs survived, they fled without looting the bodies.

Pious Elsa casts Gentle Repose on the Elven corpses so that they can be brought to Thadenis. Corwin warns Orlando and Cerdwyn to beware of more bandits on the road, and Hamfast carries the fallen to a wagon.

That evening, the circus camps under the stars. Hamfast, Cerdwyn, and Baskor take the first watch and stoke the fire. During the second watch, Corwin and Ivy hear an eerie caterwauling.

Corwin wakes Elsa and creeps out to investigate. He is surprised by a mountain lion, but a quick Sleep spell neutralizes the danger. Druid Elsa and Ranger Scully are pleased at the lack of violence. Elsa and Caleb have an uneventful third watch.

The caravan crosses the Plains of Sathendo, as the terrain shifts from woods to hills and, finally, sheep pastures and frosty fields. Ol’ Pete, Caleb, Ivy, and Melody take their leave. The performers behold the gray stone walls and towers of Thadenis and join the throngs at the city’s gates.

They pay the blond Saganim sentries a weapons tax and head to the “Happy Brownie,” which is between the temple district and various consulates. Corwin spares no expense, paying innkeeper Doyle 30 crowns (gold pieces) for a week’s stay in a suite.

Elsa spends 2 g.p. each for midrange rooms for Miranda Barrowright, Halfling priestess of Yondolla, and her family, as well as few other members of the troupe. Hamfast is content to spend 1 g.p. for space in the “Happy Brownie’s” common room.

Hamfast, Corwin, and Elsa go to the Royal Society for Exploration and Cartography and find a brownstone in a quiet neighborhood. An apparently bored student greets them from behind a desk, but a voice from deeper within the building instructs Ilnadu Magevictor to show the guests in.

In a book-lined room, “Ulrich Vandermoor” [Ted A.H./N.P.C.] welcomes the trio. In return for a map of the Zuromm outposts within Saganim borders, former adventurer [with the “Liberators”] Ulrich agrees to arrange for an audience with King Edmund II so the group can investigate corruption within the realm.

The wanderers then go to the embassy of the Waletku kingdom, where they are greeted by Elven soldiers resplendent in mithril chain. The haughty guards are suspicious of the scruffy human, Half-Elf, and Dwarf but swiftly give them permission to bring the Elven remains into the white building.

Quelanthi (High Elf) consuls Annette and Valery are troubled by the group’s story of an Orcish ambush and promise to properly bury the dead and notify their families. The diplomats mention the shrine of Corellan Larethian in the Field of Grulla, the huntsman. Grateful for the service, Annette and Valery grant Vistel’s Circus safe passage through the Blackhorse Woods.

Hamfast later helps Cerdwyn and the roustabouts set up tents in the southeastern part of the Agora, or market square. Corwin goes to the Bardic College, where he sees redheaded priestesses of Brijitt, goddess of fire and poetry. Disguised Corwin also chats with Miss Crevan, a Half-Elf who has performed at the Cathedral of Edillon, lord of the sky.

At Corwin’s recommendation, Gnoll Scully and Lizard Woman Malinzel keep a low profile. Ol’ Pete had recommended that Giacomo check out the Harandrim Academy, the modest local Magisterium (magic school/library).

Elsa goes to the temple of Nersago, also known as Gobnihr, Vulkan, or Moradin. The Dwarf gives a generous tithe and is pleased to see Clerics of the mountain deity wielding hammer and tongs above massive anvils and passing around flagons of strong ale.

Speaking of liquor, Hamfast leads Cerdwyn, Baskor, clown Graham Tervin, and the Flying Perhutens on a pub crawl around Thadenis. The circus folk make themselves at home at “Ghanki’s Gin Pub,” which hosts a mix of sailors and gamblers from the nearby Ironhooves Arena.

They then pay the toll at the Cavalier’s Bridge to party at the “Crystal Goblet,” which turns out to be a stuffy officer’s club. The rowdies stagger back to the “Happy Brownie” and “Half Moon,” and their recollections become blurry after that.

Hamfast intends to lead the carousers to the “Silver Tankard,” the “Leprechaun’s Spittle,” and finally, the “Chalice of Pain,” but few make it that far. Meanwhile, Elsa visits the “Bulging Baldric” but is disappointed to find it full of swashbuckling Saganim swains.

The next morning, the performers groan amid hangovers. Hamfast joins Elsa at Nersago’s Forge, and Corwin awaits word from Ulrich about a royal audience at the Hall of Thanes….

Beruk and Sara, I’m sorry that you couldn’t join us, and I hope that Josh feels better! It was good to chat with you during the latest “VortexTerra’s Pride” telecom space opera, and I hope you’ll be able to attend Jason E.R.’s“Barsoomian Adventures: the Tenth Ray of Mars” next week.

I may have to travel in the coming week, but I’ll try to let everyone know if it will affect our games. Note that Brian won’t be available on March 11, so we’ll have to meet at Rich’s place in Waltham, Mass. In the meantime, take it easy, -Gene

“Vortex: Terra’s Pride” Update 5c.24 — New Havana heist

Fellow role-players, here is my update for Session 5c.24 of the “Vortex” telecom space opera campaign, which met via Skype on Sunday, 10 February 2013. We’ve been using FATE 3e Starblazer Adventures /MindjammerBulldogs, and an online dice roller.

In one future, humanity has begun to colonize the Sol system, but environmental degradation, population pressures, and internecine conflict persist. The rediscovery of mystical abilities and open and official First Contact with galactic societies, themselves at war, threaten Terra’s very survival. Can heroes rise to the challenges?

“Vortex” Team 5c (3) Player Character rosters: Crew of the yacht Pina Colada:

  • Capt. Jasmine” [Sara F., primary]-female Martian Felinoid “Synth” (“Uplifted” tiger), former pit fighter and crewmember of the Appomattox, now captain of the Pina Colada searching for a homeworld for her people
  • Hector Chavez” [Beruk A., primary]-male Terran human, former spy and crewmember on theAppomattox, cautious engineer and communications expert
  • Chris McKee /Agent Prometheus” [Josh C., primary]-male Terran human, former assassin for the eugenicists at Black Box Security Co., sniper and seeker aboard the Blackbird and Pina Colada
  • Orion Starchaser” [Geoff C., primary]-male Pomuyan (blue telepathic humanoid alien), irrepressible mystic and thrill-seeking galactic hitchhiker
  • Dr. Srinu Pahul” [Byron V.O., primary]-male Terran “near-human” (genetically modified) xenobiologist, curious and confident planetary patriot; with robots MEGAN and PEPE
  • Lt.Cmdr. Kevin Reese” [Bruce K., primary]-male Terran “near-human” (cyborg), former Interplanetary Patrol officer and member of the Blackbird and Dauntless crews; defender of the homeworld
  • Chiron” [Dexter V.H., primary]-male (secretly android) pilot, assigned to assess and protect humanity

Crew of the experimental scout ship Blackbird:

  • Lt. Sebastian Growlick” [Bruce K., secondary]-male Felinoid “Synth” (“Uplifted” lion), elite soldier and acting commander of the refitted Blackbird
  • Tela” [Sara F., secondary]-female Tharian (gargoyle-like alien), escapee from the Encegulans (slug-like slavers), fond of humans; engineer with boyfriend Kedar and robot Dr. Bucket
  • Tariq Asrad Saladin” [Beruk A., secondary]-male Terran “near-human” (mutant) wanderer with a past, investigator
  • Lord Wallace Tubbington III” [Josh C., secondary]-male Olvar (arboreal, mammal-like alien) swashbuckler and diplomat for the Kharvamid Alliance
  • Brun” [Geoff C., secondary]-male Martian Ursoid “Synth” (“Uplifted” bear), former wrestler, pilot
  • Sgt. Nathan A. Jessup” [Byron V.O., secondary]-male Terran human, gung-ho member of the North American Aerospace Marine Corps
  • Enkidu Aristheon” [Dexter V.H., secondary]-male Seranen (pale empathic humanoid alien) exile, wilderness survival expert curious about Terrans and the Zarkonian threat; with sphinx-like companion Glaucon

See other records for the previous crews of the Blackbird, Appomattox, and Gryphon.

Inspirational text
Space heist

“7 to 9 July 2195 A.D./C.E. or 1 Terran Galactic Era:” After separate voyages, the Pina Colada and Blackbird joined to form the “Terra’s Pride” task force. The starships found that they were not alone in the hunt for stolen Vatican treasures, following them to Jupiter’s moon Ganymede.

On the yacht Pina Colada, Capt. Jasmine says that she wants to limit collateral damage if the ancient relics are to be seized by force. The Plutonium Hammer had retrieved two shipping containers near Epsilon Eridani and delivered them to an Intersystems Salvage warehouse in New Havana.

Hector Chavez hacks into local security systems. The onetime spy tracks Kolidari back to a rented apartment and a private shuttle. Hector and Jasmine suspect the Octopoid (bioengineered cephalopod) casino owner of masterminding a plot involving smuggling, blackmail, religious factions, and murder on Saturn’s moon Titan.

Chris McKee reminds his companions that they don’t have the cargo-handling equipment to simply remove the containers from the Jovian warehouse. Orion Starchaser is restless as the crew discusses a potential heist. He and Chiron want to examine the artifacts as soon as possible.

Lt.Cmdr. Kevin Reese prefers a clear plan, and he and Dr. Srinu Pahul recommend notifying the Union of Solar Nations (U.S.N.) and the United Ecumenical Movement (U.E.M.) about the items. They also coordinate with colleagues aboard the scout ship Blackbird.

Lt. Sebastian Growlick, Brun, and Sgt. Nathan A. Jessup would like to simply attack the warehouse, but Capt. Jasmine and Lt.Cmdr. Reese overrule the eager space marines. Tela assembles makeshift magnetic grapples with supplies acquired by Dr. Pahul.

Lord Wallace Tubbington III notes that the space where the containers were retrieved falls between Terran and Ru’ulok (reptilian alien pirate) control. Tariq Asrad Saladin and Enkidu Aristheon express concern that the historical items be preserved. They also warn both crews to be on the lookout for the Nolath-Kutalrin ship also hunting for the cargo.

Brun pilots the agile Blackbird to New Havana and drops off Tela, Orion, and Srinu. Chiron maneuvers the larger Pina Colada to grab the containers, with Nathan in a space suit on Hector’s hover truck to assist with loading. Hector loans Srinu a variable electromagnetic pulse (EMP) gun, and he, Jasmine, and Sebastian monitor communications and nearby traffic.

Tela picks a lock on a side door, and the infiltration team heads to a lavatory. Hector remotely hacks into the warehouse surveillance systems and warns the trio about numerous robots. Orion telepathically senses several human personnel, and Srinu readies a needler pistol.

Two Intersystems Salvage workers enter the washroom, and quick-thinking Srinu strips off his clothing and jumps into the showers. Tela and Orion hide in stalls. Srinu emerges and introduces himself as “Rajesh Abishek,” a recently-arrived transport agent from New Shanghai in the Mars Confederacy.

Tom Kelden and Gregor Andreivtich tell Rajesh to report to the manager’s office, and Srinu grabs some overalls from a laundry hamper. They complain about tightened security and agree to swing by the employee lounge with Rajesh.

While Srinu continues his diversion, Tela squeezes into an air duct. The stealthy Tharian climbs to a position above the units containing the Vatican artifacts, leaving Orion alone. The Pomuyan mystic exits the building and sweeps the perimeter.

Hector recognizes an arriving shuttle, and he tells the team to hurry up. Orion senses visitors to the management office, and he radios Srinu to intercept. Tela plants explosives on the outer wall of the warehouse.

As Rajesh, Srinu finds himself face to face with tentacled Kolidari! The charming cephalopod has a vocal device programmed to resemble an archaic Terran actor [apologies to Sean Connery]. Tela is nearly captured by a security droid, but Hector overrides its controls so she can join Orion.

Kolidari graciously offers to meet with Rajesh to discuss potential business, and Srinu manages to disengage and retreat. Hector triggers the explosives, but Gregor is caught in the explosive decompression.

Chris accurately fires the magnetic grapples and reels the containers into the Pina Colada’s cargo hold. Nathan grabs Gregor and brings him to safety, while Tela, Orion, and Srinu evade station security to rendezvous with the Blackbird.

Dr. Pahul’s robot nurse MEGAN attends to unconscious Gregor, and both ships head to the Asteroid Belt. Agent Prometheus recommends an abandoned Black Box Security Co. safehouse over returning to Mars or Saturn.

The Pina Colada and Blackbird dock at a decrepit asteroid base. Engineers Hector and Tela work on stabilizing systems such as life support and attitude control. Dr. Pahul insists on proper containment procedures before examining the cargo, citing the dangerous nanites (microscopic robots) emitted by Zarkonian probes.

After impatiently waiting, Orion and Chiron begin examining the artifacts, with Jasmine, Chris, Srinu, and Enkidu watching closely. The items fall into three categories:

  • Artistic and historical: Such as the lost scrolls of Babylon (indicating trade with the “Vanished Lands”) gold from Troy, and notebooks of Leonardo da Vinci
  • Ancient technology: the Televalutor (a Greek astrolabe), South Pacific star maps
  • Mythic objects: Including the Sash of Giganta, Musashi’s Scabbard, the Horn of Roland (believed be merely legends)

Orion detects some psionic resonancesimilar to what he had found on Earthsupporting Srinu’s theories of pre-First Contact relations between humans and aliens. Chris recalls Precursor technology found by the Blackbird and hopes to find weapons that can be used against the approaching Zarkonian Armada.

Hector and Kevin wonder why the arachnid Nolath and cyborg Kutalrin would be interested in the cargo, since they’re known more for engineering than cultural interests. Wallace confirms that the Olvar (arboreal mammal-like mystics and pranksters) and Ru’ulok have more in common with Terrans.

Jasmine and Sebastian remind their crews that they have limited time to study the relics and to decide what to do with them, since several other groups are now hunting for them….

Dexter and Bruce, we missed you at this past weekend’s game! While we had a slow start — everyone was no doubt tired from shoveling snow — I’m glad that your heist was successful. I hope to engage each character more equitably, and good luck to your crews as they analyze the retrieved relics! Make the most of our time between sessions.

Note that we won’t be meeting virtually again until Sunday, Feb. 24, because I have travel planned for this coming weekend. The face-to-face sessions for Jason’s “Barsoomian Adventures” pulp SF and my “Vanished LandsVistel’s Circus” fantasy campaign have also been pushed back because of the weather. In the meantime, take it easy, and stay in touch, -Gene

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Update 39.8 — “We just wanted the venison!”

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for Session 39.8 of the “Vanished LandsVistel’s Circus” fantasy campaign, which Brian W. hosted at his home in Newton, Mass., on Monday, 4 February 2012:

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, using the Basic Fantasy Role-Playing Game, as of spring 2013:

  • Hamfast Hammerfist [Brian W.]-male Zeda human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 2
  • Scully Strongbow [Sara F.]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 2
  • Corwin Windsong [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 2
  • Elsa Fairbottom [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with owlbear cub “Oswald”; NGc, Lvl. 2
  • Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane [Beruk A./absent]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) and stage seer, embittered by experiences in Hesolin’s Magisterium; NGc, Lvl. 2
  • Tempestade [Josh C./absent]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), roustabout; CGl, Lvl. 2
  • Radius [Jason E.R./absent]-male Modron Paladin of Primus, lord of Nirvana; exiled to the Prime Material plane; LGn, Lvl. 1
Roasted venison
Roasting venison

“22 to 25 February 1228 B.C.E.:” After cleansing a farm near Tensar of Undead, Vistel’s Circus rode toward the Saganim (proto-Celtic) human village of Nobb. On the way through some woods, the wagon train was ambushed by Bugbear bandits, but they were quickly vanquished.

As the caravan arrives at Nobb, circus founder Orlando Vistel sends Corwin, Hamfast, Scully, and Elsa to check out the local inn. They enter the smoky common room of the “High Hedge” pub, but the Saganim peasants are alarmed to see Gnoll Scully.

Corwin vouches for his companion, and the Bard buys a round of drinks and sings, allaying their concerns. Scully, Hamfast, and Elsa get a table and order dinner, while Corwin reserves a room with innkeeper Darrin.

A young man named Caleb introduces himself to Elsa and has many questions for the Dwarf Druid, especially about her trained owlbear cub “Oswald.” Caleb is apprentice to “Pita ‘Old Pete’ Arborson” [Dan A./Non-Player Character], a Barbari human Ollave. They also travel with Skald “Melody” [Lori K.S./N.P.C.] and Grugach (Wild Elf) scout Ivy.

Caledil Longbark, a Sylvan Elf trapper, catches Corwin’s eye, but Corwin is curious about Caleb’s group. Hamfast tersely defends the honor of the Zeda kingdom of the Dwarves and Gnomes, since that’s also his homeland, but the Saganim woodsmen and Elves mean no offense to the tall human.

Ol’ Pete asks whether the circus has news from the east. He has heard rumors of hostile Centaurs, evil Druids, and incursions by monsters from the nefarious kingdom of Zuromm. The newcomers haven’t heard of any of these, but are interested in them as well as in possible corruption in the court of King Edmund II.

Corwin asks Ol’ Pete if he could guide the circus toward Thadenis, capital of Saganim. Elsa pays the Ollave 30 crowns (gold pieces), and he recommends heading to the village of Baln rather than taking a northern road across the open Plains of Sathendo.

The next morning, Ol’ Pete and his followers join Vistel’s Circus and head southwest. Giacomo rides in a cart recently acquired from the Necromancer defeated at Tensar. Scully, Ivy, and Corwin to scout ahead through the snowy woods.

Scully slips down a ravine and spots a cave opening covered by icicles. Corwin and Ivy follow, and they notice tracks. Peering into the cave mouth, they see red eyes! A warg and an armored Orc lunge forth.

Corwin draws his long sword, as Ivy shoots arrows from her bow. The wolf-like warg bites Corwin, but the Orc misses with his gladius. Scully sends her bird Owlicious to warn the others.

Back at the wagons, Ol’ Pete is leading the way around the ravine when Owlicious returns. Hamfast, Elsa, and Giacomo prepare to join their friends. Corwin manages to slay the green-skinned Orc, and white-furred Scully fells her fellow canine.

In the cave, Ivy and company find a cache of Zuromm [Roman-style] weapons, jerky of unknown origin, and silver coins with a spider on one side and an eye on the other. They also find a parchment map with a second site marked ahead on their path. The scouts rejoin the circus train and continue hiking.

Sometime later, Orlando and Ol’ Pete give Corwin, Hamfast, Scully, Elsa, and Ivy leave to check out the second site from the map. They climb a hill and see a dense ring of trees around a rocky summit. Vultures circle overhead.

Stealthy Scully and Corwin creep ahead and take out a sleeping warg. The others join them as they enter a pile of standing stones and descend a narrow, winding staircase. A tunnel leads to a vertical shaft on one side and a sloping passage on the other.

Corwin follows the passage and nearly falls into a pit trap. After resetting it, the spelunkers find a back exit near the tree line covered by a relatively thin layer of piled-up rocks.

They head back to the interior of the tor and find an ancient tomb, possibly dating back to the Saganim empire of a few centuries ago. The sarcophagus has been destroyed.

The next chamber has vaulted ceilings and skylights. It was once some sort of temple, although neither Elsa nor Corwin recognizes all the carvings. The raiders find recent bloodstains on the altar. One exit leads to the vertical shaft, and another, hidden behind the altar, leads down to a third subterranean level.

The adventurers ignore the path back to the vertical shaft, which Elsa notes would make a good quick escape route up, if it doesn’t lead down to the nameless horrors of the Underdark. The other direction leads to a mess hall, where three Orcs and a gray-skinned Dwarf are cooking venison and are surprised to have visitors.

Corwin quickly nocks arrows, and Elsa invokes Vulkan (Moradin) to cast True Strike on Scully. Ivy misses and drops her bow in favor of her sword. Hamfast engages the Duergar, as accurate Scully smashes an Orc with a mighty blow.

The two remaining Orcs snarl but miss, and the Gray Dwarf casts Darkness. Corwin swings anyway, as does Ivy. Elsa taunts the Dwarf, and Hamfist kills another Orc. Scully kills the last Orc of the Footmasher clan, and the Duergarlevitates Elsa before he is slain by Corwin.

Scully and Hamfast carry the deer on a spit out of the caves, since wise Elsa recommends leaving rather than exploring any deeper. Corwin and Elsa grab scrolls of Chill Touch and Darkness as they head back to rejoin the circus troupe….

I hope you enjoyed the action-packed dungeon crawl! Even though we’ve had more delays because of the weather, I look forward to continuing Jason’s “Barsoomian Adventures” planetary romance miniseries, as well as the ” VortexTerra’s Pride” telecom space opera.

“Vanished Lands: Vistel’s Circus” Update 39.7 — Abattoir and ambush

Fellow role-players, here are my notes for Session 7 of the “Vanished LandsVistel’s Circus” fantasy campaign, which Brian W. hosted at his home in Newton, Mass., on 14 January 2012:

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 theBasic Fantasy Role-Playing Game, as of spring 2013:

  • Giacomo ‘the Mysterious’ Du Vane [Beruk A.]-male Hifalendorin human Mage (Gypsy Wizard) and stage seer, embittered by experiences in Hesolin’s Magisterium; NGc, Lvl. 2
  • Hamfast Hammerfist [Brian W.]-male Zeda human Fighter, mountaineer, “barbarian” strongman, and laborer; TNg, Lvl. 2
  • Scully Strongbow [Sara F.]-female albino Gnoll (Flind) Ranger, archer, knife thrower, and scout, with owl “Owlicious”; NGl, Lvl. 2
  • Corwin Windsong [Bruce K.]-male Half-Elf Bard, runaway aristocrat, ladies’ man, and ringmaster with a mandolin; CNg, Lvl. 2
  • Elsa Fairbottom [Rich C.G.]-female Hill Dwarf Druid outcast, cook/brewer, and animal handler with owlbear cub “Oswald”; NGc, Lvl. 2
  • Tempestade [Josh C./absent ]-male Barbari human Monk (Battledancer/capoeirista from outside the “Vanished Lands”), roustabout; CGl, Lvl. 2
  • Radius [Jason E.R./absent ]-male Modron Paladin of Primus, lord of Nirvana; exiled to the Prime Material plane; LGn, Lvl. 1
Bandit ambush near Nobb
Skirmish in the snow

“17 to 21 February 1228 B.C.E.:” On its way west, the circus had stopped at Tensar, hometown of escape artist Seamus Fenor. Some of the performers found themselves fighting off Undead at the cursed farmstead of Fenor’s family, which had been slain by a Necromancer posing as an itinerant tinker.

Giacomo notes that one building was not burned down in the fighting and boldly leads Scully and Hamfast back to the haunted farm. They meet Brion Black Elk standing guard on the road.

The young Paladin of Otih, god of the sun and justice, explains that “Lady Alcye” [Kim A.G./Non-Player Character] had asked him to warn off travelers. Giacomo explains to the Saganim (proto-Celtic) human that he merely wants to make sure that no traces of the murderer from the Sable clan remain to trouble Seamus or the town. Brion reluctantly lets them onto the property.

Scully is the first to smell something foul as they approach a tool shed. Hamfast opens the door and is disgusted to see human skins piled like animal hides. As the three carnies search the shed and tinkerer’s cart, the skins pull themselves together into a flesh golem!

Ranger Scully draws her bow, but her arrows have little effect on the hideous construct. Hamfast slams into it with his hammer, as Giacomo casts Chill Touch. The grotesque golem hits Hamfast with a mighty but glancing blow.

Corwin and Elsa catch up, and they and Brion race to the shed upon hearing Scully’s shouts. Bard Corwin fumbles with his bow, but Druid Elsa casts Protection From Evil on Hamfast. Brion charges but spears himself in the chaos.

As the abattoir shakes, Gnoll Scully moves the cart for cover, as Fighter Hamfast falls back. Wily Giacomo casts Mage Hand to pick up a lantern and drop it onto the tough golem. He also detects a magic scroll in the cart.

The golem slowly shambles out of the shed. Corwin slips in the oil from Giacomo’s lamp, while Elsa tries to cast Mendon one of the seams holding the human hides together. Scully prepares flaming arrows, and Hamfast drops his maul in favor of a knife.

Giacomo casts Magic Missile, and the golem is forced to stop to extinguish itself. Corwin swings his sword, hitting the golem, as well as hapless Hamfast. Elsa heals the Zeda human and then casts Unravel on the golem.

Scully draws a sword and strikes at the golem’s stitches, as does Hamfast. Ignoring pain from a spell burn, Giacomo casts more Magic Missiles, destroying the golem. Elsa aids Scully and Brion.

After Corwin finds and disables some traps, the adventuring party searches the Necromancer’s cart. They find the following:

  • Coins: 50 copper pieces, 100 silver pieces, 200 crowns (gold pieces), and 500 g.p. in gems (to treasurer Corwin)
  • Dagger, enchanted (Giacomo to identify)
  • Knives and sharpeners
  • Needle and thread, magical (but not necessarily evil)
  • Scrolls: Alter Self and Animate Dead (to Giacomo), Create Flesh Golem (to Brion to destroy), and Raise Dead(to Elsa)

The group hastens back to the safety of Tensar’s walls. Elsa drops Brion off at the local temple of Edillon, and Corwin reports to circus founder Orlando Vistel as well as Lady Alcye. Seamus takes his portion of the recovered loot and plans to resettle nearby.

Flush with cash (about 130 g.p. each), the would-be heroes buy supplies. Giacomo acquires scrolls of Burning Handsand Levitate. The Wizard also gets some alchemist’s fire and has his staff and cane tipped with silver.

Animal lover Scully buys a donkey, which she names “Nestor.” Practical Hamfast picks up rope, oil, and lanterns and coordinates with drover Cerdwyn mab Ardain. Corwin buys a chain shirt, healing potions, and scrolls of Charm, Sleep, Hold Person, and Invisibility.

Elsa gives half of her funds to the circus, and in return for her tithe, Fr. Wallace provides flasks of holy water. The Dwarf also purchases studded leather armor, inquires about Gnomish brew, and commissions custom flasks with the Fairbottom clan label.

Vistel’s Circus puts on a show one night to celebrate Tensar’s freedom from the Fenor family curse. All give strong performances, except for Scully, who manages not to injure anyone during her knife-throwing act. Ringmaster Corwin finds that his flirtations with Alcye have not endeared him to dancer Tamara the Veiled Wonder or acrobat Simona Perhuten.

Sir Banor Finney and watchful “Black Raven” [Michael C./N.P.C.] head north to Grayton, and the circus folk are quietly relieved. Paladin Radius is assumed to have returned to his home plane, and shivering Tempestade sticks close to his duties after witnessing many horrors.

Hamfast and River Dwarf Baskor Steadyhand (who gives long, meaningful glances at Elsa) help break camp and get the wagons under way. The circus troupe continues west, toward the Saganim village of Nobb.

As woods close in on either side of the rutted road, scout Scully spots some fallen logs ahead. Elsa calls out a warning of ambush, and Orlando orders the wagons to circle. Seven shaggy Bugbears emerge from the frosty forest.

Elsa casts Entangle, snaring two of the Goblinoids in the brush. Corwin strums his mandolin and casts Sleep on two more foes. Hamfast moves around, while Scully’s first arrows are wide of their mark.

Giacomo casts Magic Missile, drawing the humanoids’ attention. They hurl spears at him. Elsa invokes Mekkil,goddess of nature, for Bless and runs to a cart to heal Giacomo. Corwin slays the bandit leader, as Hamfast and Scully finish off the others.

In addition to spears and swords, the Bugbears were carrying 60 s.p., 12 electrum pieces, and 35 g.p. in stolen jewelry. At Corwin’s recommendation, the caravan presses on to reach Nobb shortly after nightfall on its second day from Tensar….

So far, I’ve found that the Basic Fantasy Role-Playing Game blends the simplicity and flavor of Old-School Renaissance retro-clones with the familiar options of the D20 Open Game License. We’ve tried various editions of Dungeons & Dragons and rules-light systems, but with a few house rules, Basic Fantasy works fine for us.

I’m sorry that we’ve had delays because of the holidays and weather, but I look forward to our next face-to-face game, scheduled for Monday, 4 February 2013, as well as to eventually continuing the “Vortex : Terra’s Pride” telecom space opera and Jason E.R.’s “Barsoomian Adventures: the Tenth Ray of Mars” planetary romance miniseries! Happy gaming, -Gene