edemaitre

Fellow role-players, please note that the D&D4e "Vanished Lands: the Faith-Based Initiative" fantasy game of this past Monday, 16 November 2009, was actually Session 61, not 60.

As your Player Characters approach 10th Level and D&D4e's paragon tier, keep in mind my requirements for attaining what used to be known as "name level" in earlier editions of "Dungeons & Dragons":

-Establish a network of allies, companions, contacts, followers, and a patron. Borrowing terminology from GURPS, an ally is someone who is an approximate peer (such as former and current P.C.s) who can aid you in specific tasks. A companion can be a significant other, an animal, or a family members who is financially or emotionally dependent on your character(s).

Contacts are N.P.C.s who are specific to certain locations and who can provide information and help with buying and selling goods. Followers are N.P.C.s who follow your character's commands. A patron is someone of higher social station who serves as a mentor to your P.C., giving training, favors and material support, and orders. "Kurick" has done an excellent job of building a network.

-Lead a subteam and demonstrate improvement in teamwork. This is often the most challenging criterion. The "Pathfinder: Holy Steel" teleconferencing team has done this a few times, but that hasn't been an option during most of the "F.B.I.'s" travels.

-Join an organization. This is to prove that your P.C. is developing and becoming more integrated into my "Vanished Lands" fantasy campaign setting. Although Lawful characters such as Paladins will have an easier time finding something to join or start, even Chaotic ones such as Rogues and Bards can find a loosely affiliated thieves' guild or a Bardic college. A recent example is "Dante" joining the "King's Cavaliers."

-Gain renown in your chosen field. As your P.C.s reach mid- to high levels, they should become known to others in their occupational classes as well as to the general public. Fame (or infamy) is a mixed blessing, but one that most experienced adventurers acquire. "Kimo" has worked up to guest lecturer status at Hesolin's Magisterium, and Kurick has encouraged Bards.

-Use signature items or abilities. The figures of fiction, legend, and myth are remembered for certain weapons, wondrous items, and tools, not everything they were carrying. Certain skills, feats, and spells may also qualify. "Val's" Eldritch Blasts and shoe fetish qualify.

-Provide up-to-date notes. At minimum, I should have copies of your P.C. record sheets, but journals and contributions to the Yahoo/eGroups message board and "Files" section, painted miniatures, and group discussions about treasure, tactics, and gaming in general are also welcome. Everybody has fallen behind in this.

Although I don't expect every P.C. to follow all of these house rules, paragon tier should reflect character development, improved intraparty interactions (both in and out of character), and tying each P.C. and the party into the world.

Yes, I'm responsible for providing the setting, major plot threads, and opponents, but I also expect role-players to take some initiative as their P.C.s become heroes, doing more than merely slaying monsters and taking their stuff. I don't award individual experience points anymore, but the following criteria should still apply:

-attendance/participation
-cooperation/teamwork
-creativity
-notes/e-mail
-role-playing/combat

In my 27 years of Dungeon Mastering, most parties haven't reached this point, partly because of player or D.M. creative fatigue, intraparty squabbling, and natural conclusions of storylines. There's nothing wrong with a party winding down after turnover or to play something different, but I'd like everybody to be satisfied when it happens. Happy gaming, -Gene

>>D&D4e "Vanished Lands: the Faith-Based Initiative" Boston-area party, as of November 2009:

-Paul J.-"Rache Calistonson"-male Renshai Barbarian (Scandinavian-style Dervish) and former member of the "Broken Chains"; LGn, Lvl. 9

-Alex J.-"Kof" (short for "Marikof Lichbeard"), male Hill Dwarf Paladin of Otih, god of the sun and justice, with boar steed; LGc, Age 71 (35 human), Lvl. 9

-Beruk A.-"Kimo Adele Okono," male Zarendo Islander human shaman (proto-East African Wizard), with monkey familiar Zibu and Kitsune Tsukai (fox-woman Sorcerer) Kirara Swift-tail; NGl, Age 19, Level 9

-Greg D.C.-"August Rilde," male Hifalendorin/Barbari human scout (Rogue); TN, Age 21, Lvl. 9

-Brian W.-"Wirth Kesselring," male Tinker Gnome Artificer; CGn, Age ??, Lvl. 9

-Sara F.-"Tonks Cinderclaw," female Gokuri Dragonborn Fighter; CGn, Age 21, Lvl. 9

-Dave C.-"Kurick Stormborn," male Skaevingol (Viking-style) human Warlord; CGn, Age 21, Lvl. 9; with hirelings Roga Far-runner and Ortol the Grim, and panda steed "Sir Fluffles von Cutenfur" (back in the Gusorin Confederation)

>>Associates and Guests:

-Paul J.-"Dante Nentor," male Hifalendorin (proto-Western European) human Ranger; NGc, Age 19, Lvl. 9

-Brian W.-"Val Shriboe," male Gokuri Tiefling (devil-touched) Warlock, with Imp assistant Szaboch; LNg, Age ~50, Lvl. 9

-John C.M.-"Harald Grimson," male Skaevingol (Viking-style) human Warlord; NGl, Age 21, Lvl. 5

-Josh C.-"Guthfrith," male Grugach (Wild Elf) Cleric of Wotan (Odin, the allfather); CNg, Age 31 (16 human), Lvl. 1

-Anna G.-"Jan," male Skaevingol human Cleric of Ismiltar, matron of magic; LGn, Age 20, Lvl. 2

-Dexter V.H. (teleconferencing team)-"Bellanora," female Mountain Dwarf Paladin of Vulkan (Moradin); LGn, Age 45 (21 human), Lvl. 1

-Byron V.O. (teleconferencing team)-"Isen Dukan," male Shan Sao Wu Jen (eastern Halfling Wizard), member of "Gan Fen Dao"; CGn, Age 30 (18 human), Lvl. 1

-Rich D.-"Xit Tuphain"-male Shengtese human Xuitein (eastern wandering Monk); LNg, Age 26, Lvl. 8

>>See other files for the latest party rosters and updates for the following games:

>>Fantasy campaigns
-Gene D.'s D&D4e "Vanished Lands: the Faith-Based Initiative"
DnD3VanishedLands : Heroic campaigns in Boston

-Gene D.'s Pathfinder: "Holy Steel" teleconferencing team

-Gene D.'s D20 "Gaslight Grimoire" (steampunk/fantasy)
-Paul J.'s Pathfinder ("D&D3.75"): "Crossroads of Eternity"
-Brian W.'s Savage Worlds: "Fierce Frontier" and other games
-Dave S.C.'s Dungeons & Dragons Fourth Edition "Attos"
-Lord of the Rings Online multiplayer online game

>>Comic book superheroes
-Gene D.'s D20 Mutants & Masterminds 2e: "Drake's Port" scenarios
-Paul J. and Josh C.'s D20"M&M"2e games
-City of Heroes: "Dimensional Corps Online" supergroup

>>Space opera RPG
-Dexter V.H.'s D20 Star Wars: Saga Edition "Revenge of the Sith"

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Fellow role-players, here is my update for Session Yb-4b.61 of my D&D4e "Vanished Lands: the Faith-Based Initiative" fantasy campaign, which I hosted in Needham Heights, Mass., on 16 November 2009:

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.

After other bands of mercenaries and diplomats fought humanoids in the northwestern borderlands, sailed the pirate-infested Sea of Nagendwa, and wandered the hostile Halmed Desert, the "Faith-Based Initiative" gathered on the Plains of Sathendo to defend the peoples of the barbaric Gusorin Confederation....

"21 to 25 May 1229 B.C.E.:" After many travels, the "Faith-Based Initiative" had returned to the foothills of the Bamor Mountains while searching for the Helm of Gunnar, the last of three Barbari artifacts. At the edge of the Wisaelf Forest, the adventuring party explored the deserted Grugach (Wild Elven) town of Cherba in the hopes of finding a way into the Underdark.

"Rache" [Paul J.] had recently joined the group after Ranger "Dante's" departure, and "Kof" [Alex J.] was wary of Bakemono (eastern Goblins) and other fey folk. "Kimo" [Beruk A.] uncovered three magical mirrors in one talan (Elven treehouse), and "August" [Greg D.C.] was surprised by the image of a huge red dragon! They hastily put a cloth back over that mirror.

"Tonks" [Sara F.] climbed up to the flets (arboreal platforms) after guarding the steeds, and "Kurick" [Dave S.C.] happily shook one mirror, which showed multiple Bakemono stuffed into a small space! Tiefling Warlock "Val" [Brian W.] had stayed behind at the town of Oakheart to be with Ariadne, a Grugach Bard.

Renshai Barbarian (Scandinavian-style Dervish) Rache noted that the third mirror showed an elegant hallway in Alfhileno, capital of the Waletku kingdom of the Elves. August observed that since it was directly across from the dragon mirror, the item was probably used for scrying.

The human Rogue also asked the Goblinoids a few questions in Bamoric and learned through lip reading that a Draconian had put them into the mirror and was going to return to Cherba. The group prepared an ambush for the agent of the nefarious kingdom of Gokuri.

Stealthy August helped Rache hide, while Zarendo Islander human shaman (proto-East African Wizard) Kimo cast Invisibility on himself. The Wizard's monkey familiar Zibu also served as a lookout. Noisier Kof, Tonks, and Kurick hid in a nearby house, where they waited for a few hours. Eventually, the beating of leathery wings signaled the arrival of the Draconian spy.

Skaevingol (Viking-style) human Warlord Kurick helped Rache with Warlord's Favor, and August readied a crossbow given to him by Dante's infamous father, Tergan. Dragonborn Fighter Tonks charged across a rope bridge, followed by Kof on his boar steed. The Dwarf Paladin phased through the wall.

Rache leapt into battle with a Howling Strike, but Kimo's Glitterdust spell missed. The Draconian swung a greatsword and also missed, while August heard another humanoid approaching outside and shot at it.

Scaled Tonks knocked out her fellow reptile-kin, whom Kurick tied up. Kimo moved to cover the mirrors and remove them because the second Sivak was firing flaming arrows into the thatched roof! Robed Kimo restrained the flying archer with Bigby's Icy Grasp.

August and Rache climbed onto the roof. The Barbarian then launched the Rogue toward the Draconian! August swung at the Sivak with his ninja-to before both fell two stories to the ground (August was protected by Cat Step Boots). Kimo used Bigby's Icy Grasp to extinguish the fire, as Kof cast Benevolent Transposition to swap places with Kurick, leaving the scruffy Warlord with the prisoner.

Kof and August asked the Draconians a few questions before slaying them. Tonks grabbed the mirror with a view of the Seelie Court. August left the Bakemono mirror in a refuse pile, and Kurick took the red dragon mirror, which righteous Kof later smashed with his enchanted axe. Kimo cast Animal Messenger to warn Val that Cherba was still dangerous.

The "F.B.I." then spent the next two days traveling northeast. The mercenaries rode from the Wisalef Forest into the rugged Bamor Mountains, avoiding the volcanic Mount Gruldar (and the Temple of Elemental Evil) on the way toward Skull Mountain, a landmark in tales of Prince Gunnar, whose helm they sought.

One night while Rache and Kof were on watch, a diminutive Gnome quietly approached them and introduced himself as "Wirth Kesselring, Ph.D., D.D.E." Kurick was particularly delighted to meet the Tinker Gnome [Brian], who explained that he was "dragon spotting."

Wirth eventually introduced his companions: Fjodr Sergeyvich, a gruff Mountain Dwarf Ranger; Lissa Highstepper, a friendly Halfling priestess of Barandorbis, god of thieves; and Ingrid Celedhira, a formal Grey Elf (Eladrin) Bard. They shared the camp for a night.

Since the "F.B.I." was heading deeper into chromatic dragon territory than Ingrid preferred, Artificer Wirth bade her and company a fond farewell. Dante and Kof were initially reluctant to have Wirth join them, as Kimo scanned for magic.

Fjodr told Tonks and her team that the Underdark was reachable if they followed the road to Rathlo. August warned Ingrid about Draconian and flying monkey spies and gave her a letter to relay before the parties separated.

The terrain grew rougher, and the "F.B.I." eventually came to a fortified bridge over a river of lava. Tonks disguised herself, and Wirth was unceremoniously stuffed into a sack. August and Kurick negotiated with the Oni (Ogre Magi) guards for swift passage, signing a contract in blood agreeing to deliver slaves on their way back from visiting some Duergar (Gray Dwarves).

As the humans, Dwarf, Dragonborn, and Gnome hurried across the massive stone span, Kimo noted that it would take more than a dragon falling on it to destroy the magically reinforced bridge. The infiltrators then climbed off the road as an army approached from the east.

Winged monkey and Draconian scouts flew overhead, followed by columns of Nezumi (rat folk) and Bakemono light infantry. Hundreds of armored Minotaurs, Wolven, and Tsucharim humans rumbled past the "F.B.I.'s" hiding place, commanded by an ancient black dragon and its Nannuattan (eastern Dark Elf) masters. Wirth took notes.

Sometime later, the weary wanderers were back on the road to Rathlo. The path was lined with impaled corpses of humans, demihumans, and humanoids (but no Nannuattan). Filthy Orcs and Hobgoblins brawled in the street, blocking the entrance to the mountainside town.

Kimo, Tonks, and Wirth tried to keep a low profile as August, Kurick, Kof, and Rache haggled with Yadlar, an Orc who agreed to show them around. At the "Matted Hair" pub, Yadlar explained the way into the Underdark -- the maze of caverns deep beneath the Bamor Mountains....

Since most of the Player Character records I have are from three levels ago, please remember to give me up-to-date copies -- nobody will level up again until I get all of them! I look forward to the Super MegaFest and resuming the Pathfinder: "Holy Steel" game this coming weekend, and note that we'll be skipping the session on the Monday after Thanksgiving. Be seeing you, -Gene

>>D&D4e "Vanished Lands: the Faith-Based Initiative" Boston-area party, as of November 2009:

-Paul J.-"Rache Calistonson"-male Renshai Barbarian (Scandinavian-style Dervish) and former member of the "Broken Chains"; LGn, Lvl. 9

-Alex J.-"Kof" (short for "Marikof Lichbeard"), male Hill Dwarf Paladin of Otih, god of the sun and justice, with boar steed; LGc, Age 71 (35 human), Lvl. 9

-Beruk A.-"Kimo Adele Okono," male Zarendo Islander human shaman (proto-East African Wizard), with monkey familiar Zibu and Kitsune Tsukai (fox-woman Sorcerer) Kirara Swift-tail; NGl, Age 19, Level 9

-Greg D.C.-"August Rilde," male Hifalendorin/Barbari human scout (Rogue); TN, Age 21, Lvl. 9

-Brian W.-"Wirth Kesselring," male Tinker Gnome Artificer; CGn, Age ??, Lvl. 9

-Sara F.-"Tonks Cinderclaw," female Gokuri Dragonborn Fighter; CGn, Age 21, Lvl. 9

-Dave C.-"Kurick Stormborn," male Skaevingol (Viking-style) human Warlord; CGn, Age 21, Lvl. 9; with hirelings Roga Far-runner and Ortol the Grim, and panda steed "Sir Fluffles von Cutenfur" (back in the Gusorin Confederation)

>>Associates and Guests:

-Paul J.-"Dante Nentor," male Hifalendorin (proto-Western European) human Ranger; NGc, Age 19, Lvl. 9

-Brian W.-"Val Shriboe," male Gokuri Tiefling (devil-touched) Warlock, with Imp assistant Szaboch; LNg, Age ~50, Lvl. 9

-John C.M.-"Harald Grimson," male Skaevingol (Viking-style) human Warlord; NGl, Age 21, Lvl. 5

-Josh C.-"Guthfrith," male Grugach (Wild Elf) Cleric of Wotan (Odin, the allfather); CNg, Age 31 (16 human), Lvl. 1

-Anna G.-"Jan," male Skaevingol human Cleric of Ismiltar, matron of magic; LGn, Age 20, Lvl. 2

-Dexter V.H. (teleconferencing team)-"Bellanora," female Mountain Dwarf Paladin of Vulkan (Moradin); LGn, Age 45 (21 human), Lvl. 1

-Byron V.O. (teleconferencing team)-"Isen Dukan," male Shan Sao Wu Jen (eastern Halfling Wizard), member of "Gan Fen Dao"; CGn, Age 30 (18 human), Lvl. 1

-Rich D.-"Xit Tuphain"-male Shengtese human Xuitein (eastern wandering Monk); LNg, Age 26, Lvl. 8

>>See other files for the latest party rosters and updates for the following games:

>>Fantasy campaigns
-Gene D.'s D&D4e "Vanished Lands: the Faith-Based Initiative"
-Gene D.'s Pathfinder: "Holy Steel" teleconferencing team
-Gene D.'s D20 "Gaslight Grimoire" (steampunk/fantasy)
-Paul J.'s Pathfinder ("D&D3.75"): "Crossroads of Eternity"
-Brian W.'s Savage Worlds: "Fierce Frontier" and other games
-Dave S.C.'s Dungeons & Dragons Fourth Edition "Attos"
-Lord of the Rings Online multiplayer online game

>>Comic book superheroes
-Gene D.'s D20 Mutants & Masterminds 2e: "Drake's Port" scenarios
-Paul J. and Josh C.'s D20"M&M"2e games
-City of Heroes: "Dimensional Corps Online" supergroup

>>Space opera RPG
-Dexter V.H.'s D20 Star Wars: Saga Edition "Revenge of the Sith"

Fellow role-players, here is my update for Session Yb-4b.60 of my D&D4e "Vanished Lands: the Faith-Based Initiative" fantasy campaign, which I hosted in Needham Heights, Mass., on 9 November 2009:

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.

After other bands of mercenaries and diplomats fought humanoids in the northwestern borderlands, sailed the pirate-infested Sea of Nagendwa, and wandered the hostile Halmed Desert, the "Faith-Based Initiative" gathered on the Plains of Sathendo to defend the peoples of the barbaric Gusorin Confederation....

"16 to 20 May 1229 B.C.E.:" The "Faith-Based Initiative" had crossed plains, deserts, and oceans before resuming its quest for the Helm of Gunnar, the last of three Barbari artifacts. The adventuring party arrived at Sonamtil, a hamlet nestled between the Wisalef Forest and the Bedoni Lake.

"Rache" [Paul J.] got a room for the night at the "Marsh Wash" inn, while Dwarf Paladin "Kof" [Alex J./absent] paid his respects at the local chapel. Arcanists "Kimo" [Beruk A.] and "Val" [Brian W.] realized that Sonamtil was too small and remote to have a Magisterium (magic school/library).

"August" [Greg D.C.] watched "Haldir," one of several Spriggan would-be assassins who had disguised themselves as Quelanthi (High Elves/Eladrin) before being defeated by the group. Dragonborn Fighter"Tonks" [Sara F./absent] tended to the steeds.

"Kurick" [Dave S.C.] introduced himself to Christoph, a Sylvan Elf who turned out to be the innkeeper and sheriff! Christoph agreed to hold Haldir for the night -- August kept the fey goblinoid in cold steel manacles -- but recommended taking him to authorities in Oakheart, a larger town.

Skaevingol (Viking-style) human Warlord Kurick and human scout (Rogue) August again interrogated Haldir. The Spriggan said his band had been hired by Tang Yow, a member of the kingdom of Gokuri's Guoanbo (secret police).

The next night, Renshai Barbarian (Scandinavian-style Dervish) Rache was among those who heard strange music blowing through the dense woods. Fortunately, Tiefling (devil-touched) Warlock Val was able to keep anyone from wandering off.

Seven months after they last passed through the area, the wanderers came to Oakheart, on the northern shore of Bedoni Lake. Scaled Tonks and armored Kof brought the horses to the "Sleepy Hobbit" inn, while Kimo, August, and Kurick went to the Grove of Scholars in search of Rangers. Rache and Val went to the Amphitheater of Brijitt to talk with Bards.

A few Centaurs gathered in the Druids' grove. Zarendo Islander human shaman (proto-East African Wizard) Kimo recognized "Rakhnar" [Robert A.S./Non-Player Character], but Kurick approached "Chi'ann" [Rebecca S.B./N.P.C.] to ask about routes to the Underdark.

She took charge of Haldir from August and noted that if the Nannuattan (eastern Dark Elves) were using Unseelie assassins in the Waletku kingdom, they were probably supplementing their humanoid armies with forces sent through the Bamor Mountains and fey woods. Midlevel Gokuri officers would be most likely to have maps.

Meanwhile, at the temple of the goddess of fire and poetry, Val recognized "Salorian" [Dexter V.H./N.P.C.], a Valley Elf Bard who directed them to Zar. The Halfling "agent" took Val and swordsman Rache to the "Fishermen's Net" pub, where Kurick had gotten into a wrestling match months before. Zar bought the first round of drinks.

Things turned ugly when Rache, fearing his manhood to be threatened, struck Val, drawing blood. The Warlock responded by casting Thief of Five Fates, which missed. Val then left, but Zar later gave him two free tickets to a concert to aid in reconciliation.

Robed Kimo went to the local Magisterium, where he asked Sylvan Elf Bess about certain rituals. August, Tonks, and Kof checked the dock traffic before turning in for the night, as Val and Rache went back to the amphitheater, followed by Kurick.

Val was thrilled to see Ariadne, a Grugach (Wild Elf) diva, while Rache tried to avoid him and Zar. Kurick got into a brawl with bouncer Aerkon, who nearly knocked out the shaggy interloper with magical brass knuckles! Kurick ended up dragging the Grugach back to the "Fishermen's Net," where he and August recruited him, pending Zar's approval.

Val (and his imp Szaboch) hid until they could get backstage to thank Ariadne for her homecoming performance. The musician noted that she was raising money to help repopulate the town of Cherba. To avoid Rache's wrath, Val booked a room with Odense at the "Naughty Niad."

The next morning, the "F.B.I." regrouped and rode north, joined by Aerkon. Recalling that Cherba was haunted, the caravan planned to search the abandoned Elven town but camp outside it. Stealthy August and Kimo found tracks of Bakemono leading into the leafy clearings, but they didn't see any eastern Goblins.

Val went into one talan (tree house) but left after noticing glowing Will-o-wisps fluttering around. Kimo and his monkey familiar Zibu found a flet (arboreal platform) with drapes drawn over windows and mirrors and resisted the temptation to uncover them. August entered a home whose windows had been broken, and Rache found a pile of demihuman bones.

Kurick walked into dense webs and was attacked by two nasty Ettercaps. The Warlord called for help from the large arachnids, and August charged in. Val moved more cautiously, and Kimo cast Fireburst, which didn't ignite the webbing. Kof, Tonks, and Aerkon gathered the steeds and watched for Goblins or Undead.

Rache quickly flanked one of the Ettercaps, killing it with help from Kurick's Commander's Strike. August hit with his ninja-to, as Val peered into the darkening vale. Rache then used Avalanche Strike and Curtain of Steel to fell the second monster.

The "F.B.I." warily continued its search of Cherba, hoping to find more clues to humanoids from the kingdom of Gokuri and a way to the Horn of Gunnar....

Sometime earlier and far to the southwest, the [Pathfinder teleconferencing] party known as "Holy Steel" split up. In Pi-Ramesse, capital of the empire of Khemet (New Kingdom Egypt), "Ibrahim" [Byron V.O.] readied for his kenbet (trial) for treason. The Paladin also tried to learn the whereabouts of Drow Ranger and ambassador "Faelonia" [Dexter V.H./absent].

Meanwhile, Rogue "Milos" [Beruk] tried to track down smugglers working with the cult of Set, and Wizard "Derek" [Paul/absent] studied in temple libraries. Ibrahim and Milos' followers and dragons went into the Sinai Desert, where they encountered four Mafedet -- part lion, part serpent -- in an abandoned temple to Sekhmet....

Alex and Sara, I hope you're both feeling better! Please note that the Pathfinder: "Holy Steel" group won't be meeting virtually this coming Sunday, Nov. 15, because I'll just be getting back from Star Wars in Concert and the New England Fan Experience. We'll probably also skip a few D&D4e "Vanished Lands: the Faith-Based Initiative" games in the coming months because of the holidays. Be seeing you, -Gene

P.S.: My notes also listed an N.P.C. named "Solevan" -- possibly a Grugach met in Oakheart. Do any of you recall who that was?


>>D&D4e "Vanished Lands: the Faith-Based Initiative" Boston-area party, as of November 2009:

-Paul J.-"Rache Calistonson"-male Renshai Barbarian (Scandinavian-style Dervish) and former member of the "Broken Chains"; LGn, Lvl. 9

-Alex J.-"Kof" (short for "Marikof Lichbeard"), male Hill Dwarf Paladin of Otih, god of the sun and justice, with boar steed; LGc, Age 71 (35 human), Lvl. 9

-Beruk A.-"Kimo Adele Okono," male Zarendo Islander human shaman (proto-East African Wizard), with monkey familiar Zibu and Kitsune Tsukai (fox-woman Sorcerer) Kirara Swift-tail; NGl, Age 19, Level 9

-Greg D.C.-"August Rilde," male Hifalendorin/Barbari human scout (Rogue); TN, Age 21, Lvl. 9

-Brian W.-"Val Shriboe," male Gokuri Tiefling (devil-touched) Warlock, with Imp assistant Szaboch; LNg, Age ~50, Lvl. 9

-Sara F.-"Tonks Cinderclaw," female Gokuri Dragonborn Fighter; CGn, Age 21, Lvl. 9

-Dave C.-"Kurick Stormborn," male Skaevingol (Viking-style) human Warlord; CGn, Age 21, Lvl. 9; with hirelings Roga Far-runner and Ortol the Grim, and panda steed "Sir Fluffles von Cutenfur" (back in the Gusorin Confederation)

>>Associates and Guests:

-Paul J.-"Dante Nentor," male Hifalendorin (proto-Western European) human Ranger; NGc, Age 19, Lvl. 9

-John C.M.-"Harald Grimson," male Skaevingol (Viking-style) human Warlord; NGl, Age 21, Lvl. 5

-Josh C.-"Guthfrith," male Grugach (Wild Elf) Cleric of Wotan (Odin, the allfather); CNg, Age 31 (16 human), Lvl. 1

-Anna G.-"Jan," male Skaevingol human Cleric of Ismiltar, matron of magic; LGn, Age 20, Lvl. 2

-Dexter V.H. (teleconferencing team)-"Bellanora," female Mountain Dwarf Paladin of Vulkan (Moradin); LGn, Age 45 (21 human), Lvl. 1

-Byron V.O. (teleconferencing team)-"Isen Dukan," male Shan Sao Wu Jen (eastern Halfling Wizard), member of "Gan Fen Dao"; CGn, Age 30 (18 human), Lvl. 1

-Rich D.-"Xit Tuphain"-male Shengtese human Xuitein (eastern wandering Monk); LNg, Age 26, Lvl. 8

>>See other files for the latest party rosters and updates for the following games:

>>Fantasy campaigns
-Gene D.'s D&D4e "Vanished Lands: the Faith-Based Initiative"

-Gene D.'s Pathfinder: "Holy Steel" teleconferencing team

-Gene D.'s D20 "Gaslight Grimoire" (steampunk/fantasy)

-Paul J.'s Pathfinder ("D&D3.75"): "Crossroads of Eternity"

-Brian W.'s Savage Worlds: "Fierce Frontier" and other games

-Dave S.C.'s Dungeons & Dragons Fourth Edition "Attos"

-Lord of the Rings Online multiplayer online game

>>Comic book superheroes
-Gene D.'s D20 Mutants & Masterminds 2e: "Drake's Port" scenarios

-Paul J. and Josh C.'s D20"M&M"2e games

-City of Heroes: "Dimensional Corps Online" supergroup

>>Space opera RPG
-Dexter V.H.'s D20 Star Wars: Saga Edition "Revenge of the Sith"

Fellow role-players, here is my update for the latest Pathfinder: "Holy Steel" teleconferencing session, which I ran using Skype on Sunday, 8 November 2000:

"5 to 8 January 1229 B.C.E.:" As wars and intrigues threatened the "Vanished Lands," the adventuring party known as "Holy Steel" had traveled to the distant empire of Khemet (New Kingdom Egypt). Drow
Ranger "Faelonia" [Dexter V.H./absent] had disappeared while visiting the court of Pharaoh Ramses II, and "Ibrahim" [Byron V.O.] continued preparing for his kenbet (trial) for treason.

Pesedjer Ghazi/Khery-heb (human Paladin/Wizard) Ibrahim and fellow Ghazi Nebkar remained under house arrest in the capital of Pi-Ramesses
(Per-Ramesse). Caracal-woman Shikari (feline humanoid Ranger) Raziya tracked down metallic dragons Quenamun and Thilgatha outside the city.

"Milos" [Beruk A.] had learned of smugglers buying relics stolen from the pyramid of Unas and other tombs. The pesedjer khebenti (human Rogue/Gatecrasher) noted that they could provide evidence linking the sacrilege to the ambitious Prince Sethemwie and the cult of Set, exonerating Ibrahim.

Milos and qedeshot (Bard/Battle Dancer) Nialla kept an eye out for
Assyrian agents and other spies in the markets and royal court. They also recruited Djekari, a Nubian archer once stationed at Fort Tharvu and exiled after a kenbet similar to Ibrahim's. Khery-heb
"Derek" [Paul J./absent] continued his arcane research at temple libraries.

In preparation for an expedition into the desert to hunt the smugglers, Eseteri Kahin (Elf Druid) Arianna learned of an abandoned fort near the Sinai. Guti shaman (barbarian healer) Vian also found a map mentioning a lost temple near the Great Bitter Lake southeast of Pi-Ramesses.

After a few days' ride into the desert, Raziya and Djekari found tracks leading toward the Great Bitter Lake. The scouts spotted a strange creature with a lion's body and a snake's head stalking around
an old shrine to Sekhmet. Arianna identified it as a Mafedet, a beast of Set rather than Bast.

Raziya and Djekari got the attention of the Mafedet, which was joined by three pride mates! They ran, leading the four felines down the trail. (Djekari was aided by the late Onslow's magical boots.) While
invisible, Thilgatha used her draconic breath to slow the predators.

The Mafedet struggled to advance, as Vian cast Sanctuary and maneuvered behind them. Quenamun cast Bless and weakened the monsters with her draconic breath, as Arianna and Raziya cast Sink on the sand they were walking on.

Wise Vian tried to calm the hybrid beasts, and Quenamun showed herself in full gold dragon form and kept watch for reinforcements. Clever Arianna used Control Sand and Sand to Rock to entangle and restrain the four Mafedet while the others searched the shrine.

Furred Raziya found signs of passage by humans within the past few weeks, and nimble Djekari disabled an alarm and a stone-fall trap.

Quenamun cast Detect Magic and found some gems in the temple, suggesting that the tomb robbers were using it as a way station rather than an object for looting.

Vian, Djekari, Thilgatha, Arianna, Raziya, and Quenamun set forth for the Gulf of Suez, where they hoped to find the smugglers and evidence to help Ibrahim....

Please note that we won't be meeting virtually on Sunday, Nov. 15, because I'll just be getting back from the New England Fan Experience, a genre entertainment convention in Boston. Byron, let us know if you'll be available on Nov. 22, while you'll be in New York City. I'll be out of town during the weekend after Thanksgiving. Dexter and Paul, let us know your availability. -Gene

>>Pathfinder: "Holy Steel" team roster (as of autumn 2009/"winter 1230 B.C.E."):

-"Faelonia Telcontar" [Dexter V.H.]-female Drow (western Dark Elf) Ranger/Aristocrat, ambassador, and champion of Vulkan; NGl, Level 12/2

-"Rellim Dorathan" [Mark M./Non-Player Character]-male Quelanthi
Fighter/Cleric of Aerdary (High Elf: Labelas), friend of Faelonia; CGn, Lvl. 5/5

-"Noony..."-male Svirfneblin "scout" (Deep Gnome Rogue) and follower of Faelonia; NGc, Lvl. 8

-"Argentis"-female young adult silver Dragon Sorcerer, companion of Faelonia, along with wolf Facon and hawk Azrael; NGl, Lvl. 5

-"Dalis"-Heart Bow, Protector of the Wild, intelligent artifact currently borne by Faelonia, along with the Bracers of Air Control,
NGl

-"Ibrahim al-Sufaia" [Byron V.O.]-
male Suthern human Ghazi/Khery-heb (Egyptian Paladin/Wizard) of Isis and former "Dragonslayer"; age 27, LGn, Level 13/3

-"Nebkar 'Neb' Khaneferu"-male Suthern human sailor/Ghazi (Paladin) of
Ishmas, former follower of Jaguar Woman Ranger "Grace" [Carolyn M.P.] currently attached to Ibrahim's team; LGn, Lvl. 1/7

-"Arianna Leafsplitter"-female Sylvan (Wood) Elf Druid and follower of
Ibrahim; TNg, Lvl. 9

-"Quenamun"-female young adult gold Dragon Cleric of Bahamut and steed
of Ibrahim, along with Blink Dog "Bink" [Stuart C.G./N.P.C.]; LGn, Lvl. 6

-"Akhu"-male Custos (enchanted khopesh), former Paladin of Ishmas/Isis and mentor to Ibrahim; LGn

-"Milos Valoren" [Beruk A.]-
male Barbari human scout [Rogue/Fighter/Gatecrasher from Ted A.H.'s
D&D3 "Solar Gods: the Ether Wars"] and former "Liberator"; age 27,
CGn, Lvl. 10/3/3

-"Thilgatha/Rhiannen?"-female young adult copper Dragon Fighter and
companion of Milos; CGn

-"Nialla Burkin"-female Suthern human Qedeshot/Battle Dancer (Bard/Monk), former crewmember of the "Dragon's Bane" and follower of Milos;
NGc, Lvl. 8/1

-"Vian"-female human Guti shaman (Cleric) and follower of Milos; CNg, Lvl. 3

-"Djekari"-male Nubian human archer (Barbarian/Scout) formerly
stationed at Fort Tharvu, exile from Egypt and newest follower of Milos; CGn, Lvl. 2/6

>>Associates:

-"Lord Mage Derek Ranell" [Paul J.]-male human Wizard from a Prime Material plane parallel to the "Vanished Lands" (Paul J.'s "Crossroads of Eternity"); contact of Ibrahim and Faelonia; age 30, NGc, Lvl. 16

-"Onslow"-male Demi-Elf (Half-Drow/human) Barbarian from the "Crossroads of Eternity" [Paul J.'s D&D3.75 campaign] and late follower of Milos; CNg, Lvl. 8

>>See other files for the latest party rosters and updates for the following games:
>>Fantasy campaigns

-Gene D.'s D&D4e "Vanished Lands: the Faith-Based Initiative"

-Gene D.'s Pathfinder: "Holy Steel" teleconferencing team

-Gene D.'s D20 "Gaslight Grimoire" (steampunk/fantasy)

-Paul J.'s Pathfinder ("D&D3.75"): "Crossroads of Eternity"

-Brian W.'s Savage Worlds: "Fierce Frontier" and other games

-Dave S.C.'s Dungeons & Dragons Fourth Edition "Attos"

-Lord of the Rings Online multiplayer online game

>>Comic book superheroes

-Gene D.'s D20 Mutants & Masterminds 2e: "Drake's Port" scenarios
-Paul J. and Josh C.'s D20"M&M"2e games

-City of Heroes: "Dimensional Corps Online" supergroup

>>Space opera RPG

-Dexter V.H.'s D20 Star Wars: Saga Edition "Revenge of the Sith"

Fellow role-players, I've received my hardcopy of the D20 Fantasy Craft book, and here are some first impressions. Like Pathfinder, it's intended as an alternative to Dungeons & Dragons Fourth Edition for gamers who prefer the D&D3.5 Open Game License and related rules sets. SpyCraft 2.0 is one of the best modern/espionage games since TSR's TopSecret: S.I.

The bad: The 400-page tome has a list price of $50, but you can get it for less online. Although it's a D20 book, there are enough subsystems that Fantasy Craft isn't immediately compatible with D&D3.x materials, and there isn't as much support yet for this game as there is for, say, "Pathfinder" (which has now moved up to No. 2 in RPG sales).

Character creation is also a bit more complicated than other D&D variants, with origin specialties, base classes, and expert classes replacing the more conventional class/prestige class or occupation/path options. There are enough minor changes to feats, spells, and items that imbalances might creep in.

The good: Combat is more streamlined than in D&D4e or Pathfinder, and the four-page character sheet includes most of the information players should need, potentially reducing flipping pages during a session.

I like being able to play and run from a single book, as with the D20 Mutants & Masterminds 2nd Ed. and Star Wars: Saga Edition games.

Some class options are more focused on social situations than on combat, which I know won't please everyone but encourage some party specialization and cooperation. Talents, feat trees, heroic paths, and skill-based spells should be familiar to Saga Edition and "M&M"2e players.

Speaking of compatibility, Fantasy Craft has relatively few examples of monsters and magic items, but it does provide guidelines for converting them from other D20 games. There are also good rules on poisons, traps, and worldbuilding that I'll probably end up using.

The bottom line: The Boston-area "F.B.I." face-to-face group is still using D&D4e, and the "Holy Steel" teleconferencing team has moved to Pathfinder, so I don't see us needing Fantasy Craft anytime soon. However, I would consider it (and Warriors & Warlocks for "M&M"2e) for future miniseries or to supplement longer-term D20 fantasy campaigns.

Here are links to some reviews:

[Link]
[Link]
[Link]
[Link]
[Link]
[Link]

For the Pathfinder fans out there, coming after the well-received Core Book and Bestiary are the Game Master's Guide and Advanced Player's Guide. Happy gaming, -Gene

P.S.: I've posted the following poll on the Yahoo/eGroups site -- vote in the Polls section! Which of these alternatives to "Dungeons & Dragons" Fourth Edition interests you most?

-D&D3.5 or older editions
-D20 FantasyCraft
-D20 fantasy using Star Wars: Saga Edition
-GURPS 4e Lite and Fantasy
-Pathfinder (a.k.a. "D&D3.75")
-Savage Worlds
"True20 Fantasy
-Warriors & Warlocks for D20 Mutants & Masterminds 2e
-Another rules set -- comment on message board
-I prefer D&D4e.

>>Another review of Pathfinder.
>>Might this have the right balance beyond PF and D&D4e? Fantasy Craft.

>The character creation and class diversity seems to be a strong point -- but we've never really struggled with that in 3.5. Likewise, attacks of opportunity -- they suck, but do we really want to completely deny people the ability to move when threatened? Magic as points/skill system seems fine, it just depends on how it's done.
>I do like Spycraft's way of doing critical hits -- the better you are, the bigger the range of rolls you can crit on, but you still have to spend Action Dice (Hero points?) to do so. Color me interested -- are you picking this up when it comes out? -Greg D.C.

>>Greg and fellow role-players, I am curious about alternative D20 approaches to fantasy besides D&D4e and "Pathfinder/D&D3.75," and I have ordered a copy of "Fantasy Craft." As with "Warriors & Warlocks" for "Mutants & Masterminds" 2nd Ed., I'm looking to balance our library and familiarity with D20 with simpler rules sets and a feel that matches how I view my campaign settings.
>>Sure, D&D4e has worked well enough for the "Faith-Based Initiative" face-to-face group, and I've been enjoying running "Pathfinder" for the "Holy Steel" teleconferencing team. I've also just gotten my hardcopy of the "Pathfinder Bestiary," which looks pretty good so far.
>>Have a Happy Halloween [2009], -Gene

>At a glance, FantasyCraft looks promising. I agree, I'm not happy about Pathfinder and I'm not excited by 4e. $50 is quite enough! At least it's not a WFRP price tag ($100, including special dice and gimmicks -- gah!)
>I found and downloaded a pack of sample PCs for FantasyCraft. They're awfully complex. Completed PC sheets are from 3 to 5 pages long. Looking through them makes me appreciate (again) the relative simplicity and internal coherence of Savage Worlds, where a low-level PC (perhaps minus equipment) could be described on a 3x5 card.
> Final thought -- sorry it's coming to me in pieces late this afternoon -- I think a *good* conversion of Star Wars: Saga Edition to fantasy would be ideal. I think there are one or two variants kicking around, but I'm not sure existing interpretations have hit the quality bar yet. -Brian W.

>>Brian, I agree that the "Star Wars: Saga Edition" has many of the things we would have liked to see in D&D4e. How much tweaking would the fan-written conversions require to be workable for us? I suspect it might still be easier than dealing with the plethora of rules in D&D3.x/Pathfinder or D&D4e... -Gene

>Hey Gene! I found this link, http://www.d20pfsrd.com/, while poking around looking for the next publication date of the Pathfinder core rulebook, and I thought you might find it useful. -Hans C.H.

>>Thanks, Hans! I've been pretty happy with my "Pathfinder" books and PDFs so far. -Gene

>>See other files for the latest party rosters and updates for the following games:

>>Fantasy campaigns
-Gene D.'s D&D4e "Vanished Lands: the Faith-Based Initiative"
-Gene D.'s Pathfinder: "Holy Steel" teleconferencing team
-Gene D.'s D20 "Gaslight Grimoire" (steampunk/fantasy)
-Paul J.'s Pathfinder ("D&D3.75"): "Crossroads of Eternity"
-Brian W.'s Savage Worlds: "Fierce Frontier" and other games
-Dave S.C.'s Dungeons & Dragons Fourth Edition "Attos"
-Lord of the Rings Online multiplayer online game

>>Comic book superheroes
-Gene D.'s D20 Mutants & Masterminds 2e: "Drake's Port" scenarios
-Paul J. and Josh C.'s D20"M&M"2e games
-City of Heroes: "Dimensional Corps Online" supergroup

>>Space opera RPG
-Dexter V.H.'s D20 Star Wars: Saga Edition "Revenge of the Sith"