Campaign journals, reviews of TTRPG stuff, and musings on D&D.
A zine chronicling the Conquering the Barbarian Altanis D&D campaign.
This issue details session thirty-ninth, fortieth, and forty-first session. Hydra Company clears Circle of Stones, goes to an invite-only party, and helps Herat find her sister.
You can download the issue here.
Overlord's Annals zine is available in print as part of the legendary Alarums & Excursions APA, issue 577:
Subscribe to get the latest post in your inbox. No spam.
| Character | Class | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rashomon | Elf level 2 | A dangerous looking elf. |
| Tarkus the Promising | Cleric level 1 | Follower of Bachontoi, God of Red Wisdom. |
| Rigby | Thief level 2 | A thief. |
| Orist | Elf level 1 | An elf. |
“The warlord has banned me from leaving Ahyf. He believes I am too valuable to perish sanctifying a long forgotten temple.” Camus, Ahyf's chief priest, shared with Tarkus and Rashomon.
“I promised Hist that I would see this through. If you are still up to it then we have to figure out a way to leave Ahyf unnoticed.”
“Your dedication is commendable. Here is the plan...”
Tarkus the Promising was set on finishing what he had started, even if it'd cost him his life. Most of the brave men he had ventured to the desecrated temple with had perished already. And of those that survived only Rashomon was still around. The duo recruited two capable looking individuals: Rigby the Thief and Orist the Elf.
Winter was gnawing on Barbarian Altanis. Long sleeves became a common sight. Days were shorter and nights were blacker. The latter played perfectly into the adventurers' plan: sneak out of Ahyf few hours before sunrise.
The party reached the base of desecrated temple around noon. It was eerily quiet. Not an animal in sight. Air was stale and motionless, as if time itself had stopped. Ghinarian Hills were hardly the highest in the region, but being near the summit one would still expect some wind.
The idol was as they left it last time: toppled and crumbled over the long stairs.
“Let's check the outbuildings first. We don't want anyone to surprise us!”
Both stone buildings were as they left them several weeks ago. Algon's mangled corpse was still splattered at the foot of cliff atop which the temple rests. Poor thief had slipped whilst trying to escape black reptilian monster and fell down to his doom.
“Weird. No sign of decay?”
Indeed, there were no maggots nor flies. Just a messed up corpse. The party carefully inspected the body, relieved it of all valuables, and then built a simple cairn. Tarkus said a few words to guide them into afterlife.
Both Rigby and Orist had noticed how unnaturally devoid of life this place is. No birds, no game, no sounds. Nothing.
“All is safe. Let's head into the temple.”
Barely suppressing their gags at the sight of two acid-melted acolytes, the party moved onwards to the temple doors.
This is where things were noticeably different. All the walls on the outside were marred with claw marks as well as small, irregularly shaped pits. As if something had been melting the stone.
Forcing their way in only unleashed a strong ammonia-like smell, making everyone cough and heave. In they went.
Insides were even worse than outsides. All the walls and the floor were clawed and eroded.
“OK...” Rashomon muttered, puzzingly.
The closer they got to the centre of the temple, the stronger did the smell get. It was in the center where they destroyed nightmare-inducing bull-god effigy. It was in the center where Camus and Tarkus tried to close the Sinkhole of Chaos before they were chased out by slithering monstrosity.
And it was the center where they had now found a pit so deep not even dangling torch could reveal the bottom.
“Camus, what is the meaning of this?”
“I... I don't know. I do not feel strong presence of Chaos like last time. I don't understand...”
“Will you complete the ritual?”
“Yes...”
Orist did double duty as guard and torchbearer to Camus and Tarkus. Rashomon and Rigby made few rounds through the temple. Besides signs of destruction they also found a palm-sized, black, glistening scale. The thief also found a secret compartment containing three vials, two with clear liquid, and one with chunky, brown liquid.
Noxious puffs and fumes emanating from the pit disturbed the ritual several times. Camus did wrap some clothing around his face, but alas, it did not help him too much. But that did not prevent the Ahyf elder to do what he had promised.
“Done. It is done.”
“Let's get out.”
The whole ceremony took so long it was pitch black outside. Unwilling to risk their torchlights spotted, the party waited until Rashomon's and Orist's eye acclimated to darkness. Then they headed to north-west stone house, the same one they hunkered down in on their last expedition to the temple.
With the doors and windows barred, the party briefly chatted before going to sleep.
“So, priest, what do you think of all this?”
“It's difficult to say. The ceremony is completed. I do not sense presence of Chaos. But that hole fills me with unease. If it were up to me, I'd demolish the whole place. Just bring down the temple so the rubble closes the hole and whatever might lurk at the bottom.”
“How could we do that?”
“Well, there are no siege weapons in Ahyf. There might be few in Hara, but I doubt they'd take them out all the way to here just to bring down some abandoned temple.”
“And this scale? Does it look familiar?”
“I don't know... You could probably ask around in Hara... Mavis, the High Priestess of Poseidon is known to have bested Chaos on many occasions. Maybe you could talk to her?”
“And these vials?”
“Well, the clear ones look like holy water. Shang-Ta seal confirms it. I'd be surprised if it were anything else. The brown one I have no idea.”
“Boys, you were good, but I don't want you to get into trouble. I should walk into Ahyf alone.”
“Nonsense! Nobody has seen Rigby and Orist with you before, they surely won't suspect anything! You three go first, and the Rashomon and I will come few hours later. No one had seen us leave together, why should they be suspicious?”
Indeed, the return plan worked well.
Guards were delighted to see Camus return. Briaron, Ahyf's warlord, was too busy with recent sighting of Skandink longships to go after Camus.
Adventurers bid farewell to Camus and fetched a barge to Hara.
Rashomon visited both Fighters' and Wizards' Guilds to pay his dues and learn latest rumours. Tarkus found new thing to focus on: Red Dragon. He learned from newly met friends Nolmbork and others about this dangerous drug wreaking havoc on the streets of Hara.
So he went to the natural place to ask about it—the citadel. He made friends with guards and as Cleric of Law was warmly welcomed. That is until he started repeatedly asking about this Red Dragon.
“What is that? There are no drugs in Hara.”
“Are you sure?”
“Yes. There are no drugs in Hara.”
Guards forgave Tarkus despite being a stranger.
Rigby visited the Thieves' Guild to learn the terms. They were not favourable.
Orist spent days at the Dancing Wolf, hoping to pick up on any interesting rumours. He did witness a young man burping loudly. People around him would quickly leave and complain about burning stench coming from the man.
The elf followed the man to some house which turned out to be a scribe shop. He went in through the main doors, running into an elderly man sitting behind a pile of scrolls and books. With a little bit of charm and gentle prodding, he learned that burper is the scribe's son whom had fallen in with some bad company from northern Hara.
“Interesting.”
Interesting indeed.
Discuss at Dragonsfoot forum.
Subscribe to get the latest post in your inbox. No spam.
I'm selling off the following OSR products I backed on Kickstarter and never opened, and let alone played. Everything is in mint condition. Shipping from EU, bank transfer preferred, otherwise PayPal. Scroll to the end for photos.
Ultraviolet Grasslands and the Black City €60
Jacob Fleming lot €50
Mork Borg lot €40
Knock! Issue #3 €30
Seekers Beyond the Shroud €80
Disciples of Bone and Shadow €20
Subscribe to get the latest post in your inbox. No spam.
Events presented in this report happened at the same time as sessions 44, 45, and 46. We played them out via play-by-post.
| Character | Class | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Gomm | Thief level 4 | Swarthy, good looking, dark-skinned thief. Sweet opium-like aroma is his fragrance of choice. |
| Basso | Halfling level 1 | A stable boy whom got tired of shovelling horse shit. |
| Flamthwynn | Magic-User level 1 | An older gentleman sporting fashionable dark blue robe with purplish overtones. Seeking arcane objects and offensive spell. |
| Oberon | Fighter level 3 | A tall, supple hunter adorned with bones and horns of his prey. |
| Eccy Throi | Elf level 1 | Wears a dark green cloak to hide his bulging muscles and crippling anxiety. |
| Barad the Bald | Magic-User level 1 | Bald, beardless, chinless, and lazy-eyed. |
The day was coming to an end.
Rhovar, Rad, Amanka, Kuqhir, Neremyn, BuddyPuddingBottom, and whomever else went to cheer for the Skandink warrior at the Windgod Temple competition still haven't returned.
Nothing worrisome given that these competitions are known to last—especially when one accounts grand feast that follows.
Gomm is the only one who has returned, together with warhorse Umber Fury, to the Hydra Company headquarters.
At that time, the following characters could be found at Hydra's base of operations: Gomm, Basso, Flamthwynn, Oberon, Eccy Throi, Barad the Bald, Pinella, Herat, Paxton, and ten archer mercenaries.
In addition to them, there were also eight kids of varying age: Ithiel, Musemour, Govier, Wycliffe, Valnea, Eweora, Audrey, and Honeyie.
Here is where everyone was:
Ground floor
Oberon was training three archers in the main hall. Gomm recently arrived on Umber Fury, and was greeted by Basso whom had been tending to two draft horses. Paxton was lounging with them. It's a really hot day so they left the double doors open to let in some fresh air.
Eccy was studying in the small library in the west wing of the house. Little Govier was eavesdropping on the elf. He thought he went unnoticed. Eccy was always aware of him.
Ithiel was quietly playing cards with two archers standing guard in the lobby.
Naughty Eweora was once again going through the personal belongings of the Hydra Company officers'.
Second floor
Valnea was sitting on the deck overlooking the main hall. She was the oldest and smartest of the kids they've saved from monstrous slave-traders. Although initially interested in Kuqhir's teachings, recently she has shown much more liking for strategy and tactics.
Herat had once again caught Musemour and Wycliffe breaking into the vault. She is currently scolding them, threatening to dump them in the “Caves of Horrible Shroom!”
Audrey was silently gazing through the west window.
Barad and Flamthwynn were discussing arcane matters in the resting area. Honeyie was sleeping on the floor. He farted occasionally.
Cellar
Pinella has recently been spending a lot of time in the basement. She has been keeping something to herself.
⁂
“Well met, men of Hydra Company!”
A wiry, olive skinned man stopped by the Hydra Company's HQ entrance. He was sweaty, breathed heavily, and carried Rhovar's horned helmet under his left arm.
“I'm Thalysios, and I'm afraid that I'm bringing you bad news!”
“Rhovar and his friends were labelled heretics by the Windgod's High Priest. There was no trial or hearing given—only judgement!”
“Rhovar asked me to take his stuff and inform you as quickly as possible. I have no idea what you guys did, but leaving Antil might be a good idea.”
“Here, take the nordman's helmet. I'll take my leave now. Godspeed!”
Eccy, hearing what happened to Rhovar and the rest of the crew, stalked up to Thalysios and investigated the helmet. Alas, it truly was Rhovar’s.
“They threw him into a dark pit. Apparently some horrible horrors lurk there... Still, I have no doubt he will survive. I've seen him fight!”
“And where is this pit?!” Eccy demanded.
“Right in the middle of the temple. To be honest, I didn't even know it was there! The central ring rotates and then goes downwards.” the man took a pause to take in a big breath, and then continued “Friend, going there might not be the best idea. But if you insist, it might be wise to take off that Hydra Company armband...”
After hearing all this, Basso begun preparing the horses for departure. He also organised the crew to start packing valuables so he can evenly distribute the load between the animals. Paxton and Herat jumped to help him. Kids kept getting in way. Only Valnea understood what was happening.
Gomm rode Umber Fury around the dockland asking any ship crew he passed for passage on a boat for all the company. Two ships caught his attention. One seemed unmanned, sans the guards at the dock, while the other, shabbier looking one, had few figures lounging on the board.
An hour or so later, they managed to pack roughly one fifth of their total treasure from the vault.
Gomm found out one of the ship's would be willing to take them on for a “fair payment” and “appropriate services during the journey.” Their final destination is City State of the Invincible Overlord, but will stop at several places along the coast to restock and trade. Hara being one of them. Their planned departure is three days from now. Guards of the other ship didn't have any useful info.
Eccy approached the massive Windgod Temple. Large double doors open a little bit and an exquisitely dressed nobleman stormed out, followed by eight thuggish characters. As soon as he descended the stairs he was greeted by eight more, one of them bringing forth a majestic chestnut brown stallion.
The man jumped on the horse and condescendingly sneered at his men: “Pick up the pace! I want to reach them before Panthal's lapdogs! There is still one I have unfinished business with.” They completely ignored Eccy and briskly moved in the direction the elf came from.
Eccy stood at the bottom of staircase leading into the temple. The iron doors closed behind the man. There were roughly twenty acolytes outside, not counting a mass of people moving around.
The elf approached an acolyte and in a boastful voice said the following: “I have heard your god is a great god and that you who worship him value strength. Tell me, what does it take to join your ranks?”
“Shang Ta welcomes all, brother! Why don't you come back tomorrow at noon and I'll introduce you to my Brother who takes care of new followers like you?”
“I feel a calling. Is there no way to proceed today? Something calls me from within the temple to do battle and win glory! Is this not what Shang Ta demands?!”
“Your calling is strong! Might makes right! If you wait until nightfall I'm happy to walk you to my temple just a few streets away from here!”
“Your temple!? What's wrong with this temple here? I feel there is a great battle for me within those walls!”
“The Windgod Temple is closed to the public today. What's with the aggression, brother?'
“For what reason is it closed? What stands between me and glory?”
“It's a weekly match of champions. If you wish to participate you must compete for a full week in matches of your choice. The best fighters are then invited to challenge Brutus, the reigning champion.”
“Do you not see brother? This must be the fight to which I have been called! There is no time to lose, you must lead me to this Brutus!”
“Hmmm... How should I know if you are a worthy challenger? What deeds have you accomplished? What foes have you vanquished?”
Eccy brandished his serrated handaxe. “I have cut the scalp from many a man, and taken the head off beasts the likes of which I cannot describe! Do you stand between me and glory? My destiny lies beyond those doors!”
“Might makes right, brother. If you can submit 5 of us in a row I might let you in.”
Elf quickly took care of the first acolyte, but alas, the second one threw him off balance.
“I'm afraid you are not good enough to face Mr. Bumblebee.”
“Mr. Bumblebee, his name will remain etched into my mind as I train. Is there no other way to meet this man?”
“Probably, but I can't help you with that.”
Gomm managed to negotiate rather favourable terms: 450 gold coins for the whole company, and they set sail within two hours.
Another hour later, preparations for departure are in full swing.
Basso & Oberon were overseeing the packing process. Four mercenaries, Paxton, Herat, and Pinella were hard at work.
Barad was in the library checking if there was anything critical to pack. Flamthwynn was in the master bedroom. He packed all the potions and was now hiding under the bed, waiting for further instructions.
Gomm, whilst returning to the HQ, noticed four figures hugging the north side, and four hugging the west side. He also noticed a mounted figure with wand-like object in hand pointing at the direction of the Hydra Company building.
The thief promptly ripped his cloak, doused it in oil, tied to an arrow, lighted it, and shoot it through the upper floor widow on the west side of the building. Alas, he missed! His attempt was noticed by four figures on the west side!
Next he rode up to within 60ft and begun peppering the enemies with arrows and shouting as loud as he could “They're here, they're here, fly you fools!” His next arrow landed true, pinning one to the wall.
Gomm reared up on Umber fury and shouted out, “Dogs! You'll feel the barbed tongue of the hydra! Attackers! Attackers! Be on Guard” and then he loosed an arrow into another figure at the north side. This time it was a miss.
Mounted thief could see the north figure turn around right corner, out of sight. The mounted man was also now out his your sight. Two men by west wall charged him.
Others scaled the wall and reached the window Gomm had targeted mere seconds ago. As one smashes it a child-like scream could be heard. Another one reached in and then yanked his hand out, throwing a small girl to the ground.
Her scream was brief.
Her flight was done in a blink of an eye.
Valnea's life was gone before it begun proper.
Eweora screamed at the sight, bringing to everyone's attention that something was happening. Basso and Oberon caught glimpse of Herat running up the stairs. She turned red and yelled “NO!” like a wounded beast.
“Flamm, it's time to nut up!” Barad shouted. Flamthwynn was very content being under large, secure bed. “Well, I tried...” Barad exhaled and move to entrance chamber. He took command of nearby mercenaries and ordered the kids to get back and hide.
“Hold the doors!” he was preparing to cast Hold Portal. Mercs pressed just in time as someone tried to burst in.
Sounds of fighting were coming from top floor. Basso & Oberon heard heavy footsteps, yells, and metal clanging. And then they heard Herat's broken yelp “Sister!”
“We need help up here!” Paxton yelled.
“Die, knave!” Herat roared as she crushed the head of her sister's murderer.
Gomm was having trouble controlling his warhorse in melee, but so far no one managed to knock him down. And horse was doing fine on its own; what could few thugs do to it? Well, after it was slashed for the first time, Umber Fury decided it had enough—both of the inept rider as well as the attackers. First it threw Gomm of its back. Then it stomped the thugs into bloody mess.
Flamthwynn heard doors crack open. Then he saw unfamiliar boots snooping around the master bedroom. He held his breath.
Barad's spell went off, causing the enemies to hit the doors in vain and curse profusely. “Follow me to the center. We must gather everyone, head into the cellar and retreat into the sewers!”
Basso and Oberon finally reached the second deck only to see Herat fighting off three thugs. Pinella was lying in a pool of blood, and Paxton was lying next to hear. Musemour and Wycliffe, Valena's younger brothers were attacking one of the thugs. Wycliffe managed to drive a kitchen knife into the man's leg.
Unlike mercenaries, the kids didn't really follow Barad's commands. “Just pick them up and carry little brats!”
Herat fell to her knees, blood dripping from her cracked skull. Next blow dislocated her jaw, and she fell, lifeless, next to her sister.
At this moment, three men burst in through secondary entrance, encountering Barad and few mercenaries carrying children. One dressed in chain shirt asked:
“Is any of you Barad?”
“I'm a clerk for these folk, Reston, what are you doing here? We heard screams from upstairs.” Barad replied.
“We are here to kidnap a man named Barad and kill everyone else.”
“Well, then I am Barad, aren't I?”
Without missing a beat, the man standing next to the asking man stabbed Barad straight through the gut.
Barad went out how he'd always hoped: yelling at the children.
The man in chain went pale.
“You imbecile! We need him alive!” he grabbed twitching Barad and started dragging him out.
“Let him go!” “Scoundrels!” “Face your fate!”
Mercenaries rallied and hacked to death two thugs flanking the armoured man holding unconscious Barad.
Basso killed the thug whom had killed Herat. The surviving two pushed past the kids, going for Basso and Oberon respectively. Both thugs failed to strike the duo. The second one also fumbled, and in the process his bandanna slipped, blinding him.
As blindfolded thug stumbled, Musemour crouched behind his knees. The man stepped back, tripped over, and fell flat on his back. Wycliffe, struggling to lift Paxton's mace, just dropped it on the man's head. There he lied, dead in a pool of blood, just like the kids' innocence.
Basso killed the remaining thug on the second floor, and then called the children to stay close to him. Kids spat on the thugs' corpses and then ran up behind the halfling. Oberon checked on their fallen friends—Paxton was still alive but unconscious.
Flamthwynn, hiding under the bed, could see the unknown boots scuttle away, through doors leading to the kitchen.
Barad, in hazy confusion, could feel being slowly carried while familiar voices shouted from behind him. Mercenaries charged out, trying to rescue Barad. There they encountered three more thugs, one also in chain.
Basso ran down and reached the wide double doors used to roll out the wagon. There he could see five mercenaries fighting three attackers. One of the men in chain held Barad's limp body.
In distance he could see a mounted figure flanked by two armoured figures. The man on the horse had the evilest grin Basso has seen in life.
He took a shot.
And missed.
The man laughed.
In fact, as he leaned back to laugh he missed an arrow discharged by Gomm.
The man reined in his horse and waved the stick in his hand at Gomm—discharging a shining yellow orb, akin to small sun.
The orb flied right past Gomm, scorching some of his arm hair.
Mercenaries surrounded the thugs holding Barad and hacked them all down—but the man in chain shirt. Basso tried to hit the mounted man, but missed again.
“Your fate is sealed, knaves! I'll make sure to buy any survivors!” the man yells. Then turned around and galloped off southwards, in the direction of the Windgod Temple.
His two bodyguards ran after him, but are nowhere near as fast as his riding horse...
The polite man who stabbed Barad dropped his mace: “I yield! I'm naught but a muscle-for-hire, just like you.”
Hydra Company has successfully defended their HQ against unknown assailants.
Herat and Pinella, the sisters, have died protecting the children.
Valnea, the oldest and brightest, died from blunt force trauma after being yanked through the window.
Paxton was knocked unconscious, but is now fine. He tripped whilst fighting and knocked himself out.
Barad is now stable, after being magically healed by Paxton.
Four kids were nowhere to be found: Audrey, Ithiel, Govier, and Honeyie.
And they had one prisoner.
After checking that the assailants are gone, Flamthwynn emerged from his hiding spot to assess the situation. He offered to help find the kids or help the wounded. He is a coward, but not an evil one!
Oberon frisked the corpses, recovering 56 silver pieces, 11 daggers, 9 clubs, 2 long swords, and 2 maces.
“Gather your belonging and follow me! I shall wait not longer than ten minutes!” Gomm announced loudly.
Their captive introduced himself as Notred. ““Uh, Lord Warcrown doesn't really tolerate failure. May I join you as well?”
“Why did they want me young man?” Barad interrogated Notred.
“You probably know better than me. It isn't difficult to insult Lord Warcrown. I just know that we had the orders to get you alive.”
Gomm lead Basso, Flamthwynn, Barad, six kids, and five mercenaries towards the ship. The captain was surprised to see them return so quickly.
“I'll summon the crew once you pay. No horses. And what's with the kids?”
Gomm instructed the mercs to load the treasure, paid the captain, and then took the two draft horses and Umber fury around the dockland saying “For Sale, all offers considered. All offers considered folks, grab a good bargain on a genuine thoroughbred war horse and two draft horses. I have twenty minutes, any offers considered.”
“I will buy Umber Fury.” Eccy announced. He just caught up with the rest, having returned from the Windgod Temple. “I'll take Ithiel home.”
“You... buy him? Don't be ridiculous.” Gomm stared firmly at Eccy for a beat. Then he smirked. He patted the stallion's neck, and handed Eccy the reigns. “There will be no buying. He's yours. Ride safe. Ride fast.” Gomm thrust out his arm for a hand shake.
Eccy grabbed his hand and held it firmly. “We leave Rhovar and the rest to their deaths then? I can only hope they die with blood on their blades. Good luck in whatever land you find yourself in.”
“We weren't meant for this place, Eccy of the elves. Rhovar is Skandik, he will prevail, or, if he dies, then it will be glorious, and he will meet with his ancestors. The Gods of this land are fickle. Come with us aboard a ship and find finer pastures, of milk and honey. Raise the lad as your own. One day, you might discover you are happy.”
“I will meet my death here in this land. I know death now, and no longer fear it. I once was an elf, now I am something else. And besides, I made this child a promise. I know that were I to renege on it I would lose what is left of the elf that once was Eccy. Go well Gomm.” Eccy turned away, and helped Ithiel up onto Umber Fury.
⁂
Following the news of Hydra Company denounced as heretical association, and surviving the savage assault on their HQ, the Hydra Company had successfully boarded a ship destined for the City State of the Invincible Overlord. Eccy remained in Antil, his mind set on fulfilling a promise he had give to Ithiel.
The seamen slowly trickled in, protesting being called back so soon. Many reeked of alcohol and debauchery. Their protests were quickly crushed by the Captain's generous bribe of one gold coin to each.
It was a long, hot, and humid day. The ship lazily rolled out of the port, until making enough distance to drop down its sails and roll off into the Romillion Sea.
The Windgod Temple's massive frame loomed over the survivors; their former headquarters shrinking by the moment in its shadow.
Flamthwynn stood on the deck and looked overboard wistfully.
Gomm climbed to the crows nest for some brief respite. Up amongst the sails he can't keep Antil and its evils from his mind, so he takes his knives to a whetstone. With the scrape of steel on stone the blade gets a little sharper, and he begins to plan for the future.
Basso watched as Eccy rode off into the distance. He gives him a small wave, despite knowing very well that the elf won't be able to see it.
Oberon was resting on a rail by himself with his back facing the others. As people passed him, they left him alone allowing him peace to stare out into the ocean and be lost in his thoughts. In reality, Oberon has never been on a boat, let alone a ship, before and does not have his his sea legs. He was in pure agony, puking his brains out.
Eccy rode hard for Weststar, the place Ithiel called home. From there he will likely continue “adventuring” until he meets an untimely end.
And thus ends Hydra Company in Antil.
Discuss at Dragonsfoot forum.
Subscribe to get the latest post in your inbox. No spam.
| Character | Class | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Rangar the Bull | Fighter level 1 | Titanic, dark-skinned figure wearing bull-headed helmet and a harness with countless weapons strapped to it. |
| Ervain | Cleric level 1 | A cleric. |
| Nolmbork | Dwarf level 1 | Portly, bald, red bearded, with an epic nose. On a mission to have a drink in every settlement in Wilderlands. |
| Ryan | Magic-User level 1 | A magic-user. |
| Celeborn of Revelshire | Elf level 1 | Hails from a distant community led by an Ent. Also potentially the ugliest elf you've ever met. |
After his friends broke off to interrogate their orc prisoner, Derennan went to the Pleasure Palace to face Zarifa. As usual, he had to wait for hours.
“Rank and disheveled as usual. What is so urgent? What kind of “marvels” have your brought this time? More balls?”
“Your boyfriend is dead, died lusting after more gems with which to impress you. The priest at the Temple of Poseidon says they might be able to bring him back for a price beyond our means.”
“What, that cold bitch Mavis!” Zarifa exploded “I wouldn't even let her tend to a stray cat, let alone–” her voice begun to crack “–my sweet brainiac!”
It took her a few moments to regain her composure. Once she did, she continued in her standard, condescending style.
“Where is he? When did he die? How did he die? Who was with him when he died?”
“His body is at the temple, I left money for his care. He died a few days ago, we made our way here as soon as possible. He died at the tip of an orc's spear, the orc and his companions are now dead. I and some newer colleagues were with him when he died.”
Zarifa squinted and gritted her teeth audibly. “You did well. Fetch his corpse at once. Two slaveboys will accompany you. I also want you to bring here your new colleagues. I will commission your portraits—-as a small gift for your deed.”
Tamren was the first to accept the invite, posing as follows: straight-backed, holding his sword pommel with both hands, point-down in front of him, doing his best to look stern.
“Excuse me, would you mind taking off your helmet for the painting?”
“No.”
Painter sighed and did what he was paid to do.
“So, Tamren, how did Barad die? What were you doing at that time?”
“He died a true hero! In a glorious battle against many foes, dozens fell under his mighty blows.”
Zarifa left without saying a word. Five hours later the portrait was done. It looked... Acceptable.
“You can pick it up once all have been finished.”
Hagar was next to pose. Hagar took a pensive stance of brooding power. Zarifa asked him the same questions as she did Tamren. To that dwarf replied that Barad died a good death, rushing forwards to discharge his wand at the Orc cleric, possibly saving the party thereby. Hagar stood on his right, hewing the orcs but could not prevent the spear that took him in the stomach.
Nolmbork was next to spend a day posing for the portrait. He made a big show of his wounds before assuming heroic pose with a large grin.
“Barad died protecting his comrades from a horde of fifty orcs! I was by his side as he went down! A tragedy, tragedy!”
Derennan refused to be portrayed. He was more interested in selling Zarifa jewelled scabbard and few gems they've recovered from slain orcs.
“Then take this emerald silk scarf as token of gratitude for returning my love to me. Wear it around your biceps and you will always strike true.” Derennan took the scarf and wrapped it as she asked.
Either way, by Coldrain 15th Nolmbork and Celeborn were fully rested and eager to return to the Den. They will find out what the hell is this Red Dragon mystery even if it proves to be the last thing they do in their life.
To increase their odds they recruited three more adventurers: Rangar the Fighter, Ervain the Cleric, and Ryan the Magic-User. They reached the Drug Den by evening of Coldrain 16th.
Descending down the poorly concealed shaft landed the party in the same bell-shaped chamber as before. And where else should it take them to, right?
Three impaled orcs in advanced stages of decomposition was a novel element of this room's dressing.
“This must be a warning sign to anyone coming down here.”
“This one has a familiar pig snout... Must be the ones we slaughtered weeks ago.”
Following a brief discussion, the party agreed to investigate corridors to the east. Rangar the Bull forced the doors open with great noise. Ryan the Torchbearer, standing in the back, heard faint sounds of lute or similar string instrument coming from his left.
“Let's move.”
“Anyone has a ten foot pole? No? No one?”
Celeborn the Wise ripped out one of the spears impaling an orc corpse.
“This will suffice!”
Pressing on, they soon reached a t-shaped junction. Ignoring the right turn, they moved on, only to reach another right turn. Another junction around the corner. This time they took the left turn, and marched down the corridor until they hit end—solid doors.
“Can't hear a thing.”
“Well, open them then!”
These doors opened outwards, i.e. towards the party. They too required a bit of muscle to open. Angled walls to the left and right were lined with bookshelves, which in turn were littered with books, parchments, and torn papers. Several melted and trampled candles could be seen on the floor. Vandalised reading chair laid on its side in the south-east portion of the chamber.
Failing to find any traps, the party moved in and began combing the chamber. Nolmbork stood guard by the doors they came through.
Many of the books had proven to be of very mundane nature. This was no arcane library, nor study of any arts. Ervain did stumble upon a distinctly different leather-bound tome. Although it was missing many pages, those intact were covered with weird symbols and unrecognisable letters. Not even Celeborn could make sense of them!
Besides bookshelves, there were also three doors in the eastern portion of the room: one in the north-east corner, one in the middle of east wall, and one in the south-east corner.
“I'll pack that in my backpack.”
“Quiet! I hear voices!”
Indeed, Nolmbork heard primitive grunts from behind the closed doors. They went quiet as did the party. Rangar joined Nolmbork by the doors and then they waited. And waited. And waited.
And then doors swung open.
Four pig-faced humanoids armed with clubs. Thoroughly unsurprised and thoroughly intent on beating the party up.
Adventurers held a tactically superior position, having the orcs in a bottle neck. Nolmbork and Rangar we blocking the passageway. Celeborn was stabbing with spear from second rank. Ervain was attacking from left flank, while Ryan took out his dagger and attacked from right flank.
Celeborn and Ryan were first to draw blood. In fact, the wizard had slain an orc with a single blow of his dagger! Blood was gushing everywhere as he severed the creature's neck.
Unfortunately Nolmbork and Rangar were getting concussed by the round. Still, they stood their ground, refusing to budge under the relentless attacks of pig-faced monsters.
“Press, press you worms!” a large, mace-wielding orc roared as four more charged on, forcing those in front to fight to death.
At this moment things started to fall apart. Not because of the orc captain, for him and his scoundrels were still stuck in the corridor. No, it was because of the five pig-faced bastards that charged out from south-east doors.
Now the adventurers were completely surrounded, and what used to be a great position had started to turn into a deathtrap. Rangar fell first, his head a swollen mess. Celeborn jumped over the fallen warrior and fought off five orcs. Five! All by himself!
Nolmbork was next to succumb to the beatings. Ervain kept smashing heads with his mace; Ryan kept on slaying orcs with his trusty dagger and mighty thews; Celeborn skewered all those surrounding him.
“I'll pull out your teeth and tongue; I'll rip out your eyes and parade you down the halls!” large orc roared as he chucked a wailing piglet to the side.
“Come, I'll kill you too!” Celeborn retorted in Orcish. And he followed up on his promise by piercing the monster through he ear, and consequently, head.
Remaining few orcs scattered in panic, fleeing west and south. The surviving trio gave chase but gave up afraid of being led into an ambush or some trap. Hence they returned to the chamber.
Ryan ran to south doors and listened carefully. Celeborn and Ervain checked on their fallen comrades.
A miracle!
Both were still alive, albeit properly beaten up and unconscious.
“Can't hear a thing. Better check anyway.”
Ryan opened the doors.
Three goblins with drawn swords, and two snot covered and red-eyed orcs behind them, stared at the magic-user.
He slammed the doors shut.
Ervain and Celeborn ran and pressed them, proving stronger than the opposition on the other side.
Ryan the Magic-User remembered that he is a magic-user and not an assassin, and cast Protection from Evil.
“Stand back and let them in. We'll slash them one by one!”
“Look! Incoming from the right!”
Another group of goblins ran through the west doors, which were propped open by all the piled up corpses. An orc with an eye patch, spear, and long sword by his hip walked in behind them.
He took a stand just beyond entrance, between comatose Nolmbork and Rangar.
“Hold formation as I thought you! Ignore those at the front, go for the guy in robes! Kill him first!”
Celeborn decapitated one with an arrow, while Ervain split the skull of the other with sling stone. Alas they were soon completely surrounded and overwhelmed.
Celeborn valiantly stood his ground. He was slowly hacked to death, round by round, cut by cut.
Ervain did not fare much better. He too fought bravely until the very end.
“Good, good! No, do not stop to celebrate! Make sure they are really dead!” grizzly Orc grunted with pride.
Ryan fought with his back to the wall, slaying few more with his trust dagger before he himself was stabbed to death. He was the last to fall.
Rangar opened his eyes to a horrific scene.
Bunch of goblins slashing his allies to death. So many, so many of them. Some murky figure was standing over him, laughing.
Summoning all his strength, Rangar leaped off the ground and smashed the one-eyed orc with his handaxe.
Ryan held torch as long as he could. It extinguished with him.
Nolmbork pushed himself off the ground, dazed and with throbbing headache. Still, he was aware enough to finish what Rangar had started.
The laughing orc gasped for air. And then he slumped to the ground lifeless.
Remaining snivelling orcs fled once again. Goblins on the other hand charged at the barely standing duo.
Rangar poured out oil and set it on fire. Goblins lobbed insults until the fighter hurled a javelin at them.
Illustrated by kickmaniac
The duo dragged themselves out, leaving few more fire gifts for their pursuers.
Once outside they marched an hour through the night. The Sister Moons shone guided them to a perfect spot to rest at.
Two badly wounded warriors were barely moving. Desperate, they doffed their armours. Lighter, they marched straight to Hara, stopping only when they absolutely had to.
Will they ever find the Red Dragon?
Discuss at Dragonsfoot forum.
Subscribe to get the latest post in your inbox. No spam.
The time is here! This year I decided to do a single megapost by category (adventure / bestiary / supplement) instead by publisher. I also decided to limit myself only to things I bought, read, and that isn't TSR (many classics to pick up there!). Each category is sorted alphabetically. I tried to provide brief explanation for each item, but do not hesitate to reach out if you have any questions.
Spend reasonably!
Subscribe to get the latest post in your inbox. No spam.
Lamentations of the Flame Princess might be edgy, but it was Raggi and his vision that popularised splendid looking A5-sized rulebooks, adventures, and supplements, in the OSR space. Here are some of the books I've enjoyed very much, that don't feature excessive gore and edgelordiness:
#BlackFriday2023 #Sale #LotFP #OSR
Subscribe to get the latest post in your inbox. No spam.
Frog God Games has a large catalogue, and they often churn out re-releases of their previous work with minor changes. I am not a big fan of their new layout and art direction. It feels cheap and is somehow even worse than previous budget black and white art pieces.
Great majority of the recommendations below are for Swords & Wizardry system, a retroclone of Original D&D. All statblocks have descending and ascending AC, and everybody uses a single save throw (but since HDs and levels are nearly identical, you can use TSR-era saves without any hassle). Do note that FGG begun to move away from Swords & Wizardry as a system label to OSR as system label. It is still S&W though...
#BlackFriday2023 #Sale #FGG #NG #SW #OSR
Subscribe to get the latest post in your inbox. No spam.
The time is nigh! Spend wisely!
Here are some Troll Lord Games adventures and supplements I've found useful and enjoyable, although I do not run Castle & Crusaders system. I found most of TLG stuff to have minor errors (e.g. typos, location missing on a map, etc.). Also, most of the modules do require prep. Despite that, I find below worthy of mentioning.
#BlackFriday2023 #Sale #TLG #CC #OSR
Subscribe to get the latest post in your inbox. No spam.
| Character | Class | Description |
|---|---|---|
| Hagar the Hewer | Dwarf level 1 | Imagine Conan as dwarf. |
| Celeborn of Revelshire | Elf level 1 | Hails from a distant community led by an Ent. Also potentially the ugliest elf you've ever met. |
| Nolmbork | Dwarf level 1 | Portly, bald, red bearded, with an epic nose. On a mission to have a drink in every settlement in Wilderlands. |
Leaving Derennan to take care of dead Barad, Hagar and Nolmbork took their orc prisoner to their two-story house. Into the cellar of course. There they were joined by Celeborn of Revelshire, an elf fluent in orcish.
Applying well know motivational techniques resulted in new intelligence. Alas, it was not information these adventurers were looking for!
The orc in questions was a war-priest whom has brought his clan to claim the dungeon they've captured him in. They arrived just before winter, and have been fighting the other “weaker” clan whom had allied with goblins. Supposedly there is a giant ruling on the lower levels, whom they wanted to impress and ally with.
The trio rested and returned to the den. They were committed to finding the source of Red Dragon.
Although Barbarian Alatanis is nowhere as cold as Valon, shorter days make it difficult to get far. Still, the party reached the familiar tree with poorly concealed pit next to it. Judging it might be safer to sleep in the dungeon, and that goblinoids surely sleep at night as well, the party pressed on.
The trio acted as a special force team, rapidly clearing room by room; listening at the doors whilst one would watch their back. West they went, west. First to the chamber where they left a mountain of rotting corpses. Then through the westernmost doors.
From there they kept exploring corridors, tiptoeing and paying special attention to any possible traps. The furthest corridor terminated in a t-shaped junction splitting in two long passageways. Nolmbork could smell wet soil coming from the south.
Exploring corridors they passed before, the party found staircase leading down as well as a set of double doors they decided to leave alone. Then they backtracked and explored a spiralling corridor. That one lead them to a plinth atop which two stone legs stood. It was obviously a demolished statue, bereft of anything else. Something was written on the plinth, but everything was scratched except first letter: S.
Hearing a distant tinkle sent the party packing. Once again the backtracked to the room with corpses. This time they went for easternmost doors. This led them to another sleeping chamber, if it was to judge from all the improvised bedrolls.
Pressing on, the trio forced they way through doors reinforced with iron bars, finding themselves in a long room with pillars. The floor was littered with bones, which in turn were caked with dust.
“I better check that one skeleton...” Hagar announced.
The dead lifted its hand to protect itself against the dwarf's hammer, but in vain. Four more skeletons joined the fray. Celeborn was brutally humiliated when one of them backhanded him like a small child. Party soon laid the dead to a more permanent form of rest.
Exploring the chamber further revealed a simple stone throne on the north side. Celeborn also picked up on one pillar having different patterns than others. Closer examination revealed a depression. Pressing it with a ten foot pole opened a secret chamber with scroll case and small metal box.
Elf took the scroll case, opened it with haste, and then unfurled three scrolls found within. He couldn't read any of them, even after casting Read Languages. Hagar the Curious took the small box, inspected it, and then pressed the latch. He instantly felt two pricks, one in each thumb. It hurt; it hurt a lot. Inside was a nice looking gold ring. Was it worth it? Only time will tell.
Bursting through north-west doors led into another corridor. Inching forward to the doors on the left wall, the party heard angry muttering sounds coming from west.
The dwarves decided to head south, through the door, while the elf really wanted to check what the muttering sounds were.
Stench of rot and decay: they found prison cells. Four of them to be exact. A naked, mutilated elven corpse; a corpse of fat man in late stages of decomposition; a beheaded goblin; and a corpse lying face down underneath soiled cot.
Investigating—and by that we mean smashing open—the nearby desk produced iron ring with four large keys. Nolmbork took them and unlocked the cell with facing down corpse. He strolled right in to check on it. The corpse leaped at him with surprising agility and force. It clawed and bit him, sending the dwarf straight to the ground. Hagar and Celeborn rushed to Nolmbork's aid, hacking the undead to death.
“He is still breathing! We must get out of here!”
Pushing south revealed a torture chamber; pushing further south led them into known territory; from there they went straight to exit. Dragging half-dead Nolmbork.
By now it was pitch-black outside. They carried the fallen dwarf to safety, rested, and headed to Hara with first ray of sun. Nolmbork regained his facilities, but was still badly hurt. In other words, he was hardly in marching condition.
In a rare flash of luck, the party stumbled on patrol from Hara whom had recognised Hagar. They offer to escort the bloodied trio to Hara; an offer which the party gladly accepted.
Discuss at Dragonsfoot forum.
Subscribe to get the latest post in your inbox. No spam.