These nominees were carefully sorted and selected, and represent a wide-range of campaign happenings - both recent and retro. Journey with me on this campaign retrospective as we take a walk down memory lane.
Enjoy
BEST CHARACTER DUO
Nominees - Alexus Darkangnon & Destanial Magorian
Alexus Darkangnon wrote:
QUESTION: do any of u gamers know what it is like to
to play a character, who basically has symptoms of a schizophreniac?
because the Black Razor (Lord Alexus' 4th arm ) has its own personality. and because i weild it, (like a tool for brain surgery i should say) i suffer the consequences that happens when Elrich Spellbinder (the name of the very powerful wizard that is trapped in the sword)takes over.
and what does Mr. Spellbinder want?
he wants death.
but i'll tell you something, when it starts to happen and Elrich starts to take over i don't even fight it.
because of the rush i get, when i land that last blow.
that feeling is more addictive then the drugs i consume.
share your thoughts.
i'm off this, PEACE!
From Episode #4 - Death of a Darklord
Also of note, is the presence of a mysterious hooded figure that shadows the players from a distance. This guy (whoever he is) has been following them since the conclusion to Death Of A Darklord (at least that they KNOW of). And even then, only Lord Darkagnon has managed to catch a glimpse of him here and there (Destanial has NO clue). It could just be the drugs playing tricks on his mind again, which is why Alexus hasn’t mentioned it to Destanial. But it becomes important later on…
……
From Episode #7 - This Thing of Ours
Eyes watched on from the seamless mass. Their glare resembled that of a blood thirsty carnivore waiting to strike. However, their target was not the nattily-attired Lord of Solyss, Gundarak. Instead, their target was his brown skinned Count counterpart. For no other reason than to test their mettle and prove their worth. Many men die to earn respect for another, and now, these aspiring Dorvinian gangstas are fittin to period his sentence (lingo decoder: put him in the dirt).
After fruitlessly trying to flag down a serving wench to refill his mug, Destanial tires of the wait. He makes his way solo through the crowded tavern towards the bar, and the eyes that follow him make their move.
Two young knuckle heads navigate their way through the sea of faces toward the Count, with poison tipped daggers concealed in their sleeves. Count Magorian will be the final prerequisite before they earn the Assassin prestige class...
The two would-be killers creep towards the Count. As their poisoned daggers prepare to bury themselves in the Count's soft flesh, a THIRD pair of hands intercept them.
Before they can even react, a wrist is snapped and a shoulder dislocated. The two young hoods yelp in pain and crumble to the floor in a heap. The daggers clatter harmlessly at their sides. Destanial whips around in a snap, to find the two boys writhing in pain on the floor. His mysterious rescuer slips into the crowd with practiced ease, remaining indiscreet all the while.
BUT WAIT...
From across the tavern hall, somebody witnesses the assault. Somebody saw the bald-headed husky man cut the two killers off, and disarm them with his bare hands. His movements were fluid and his angles precise. As soon as the daggers came out from beneath satin sleeves, their extremities were rendered useless. And in the amount of time it took for you to read this, the stranger had moved on again into the crowd. Somebody witnessed the look he tossed over his shoulder, seemingly as if to confirm to himself the Count was safe from danger (and oblivious to his intervention). That somebody was none other than Lord Alexus Darkagnon.
He moved quickly out of a sense of curious wonder. A sense that this mysterious stranger had been trailing them for an unknown amount of time and for an unknown reason. He had to know the truth. So while Count Magorian bent down to unwittingly aid his would-be killers, Alexus Darkangnon was forcing his way through the crowd towards the stranger. Just before the bald headed man reached the tavern doors, Alexus clasped a firm hand on his shoulder. The gig is up.
The man kept his cool, and maintained his facade, up until the time Alexus summoned Destanial over to him. Instead of making a break and causing a scene, the mysterious stranger stood his ground. He looked Destanial dead in the eye, and said "Count Magorian. Your life is in danger. The fates have smiled down upon you, and we must act quickly to preserve that faith."
……
The name of Destanial’s rescuer is Domingo dos Santos.
He is a monk belonging to the Order Of Guardians, based out of Barovia (the Count's old country). Domingo's specific branch of the Guardians concentrates on the mystery of Hyksosa's Hexad. Their research has led them directly to Count Magorian.
The dreams and visions of his childhood. The whispers and taunts of the winds. The hands of fate and the kiss of destiny. The words of Magda and Jalise of the Wanderers (from When Black Roses Bloom). They all foreshadowed the day Destanial would rise up through the darkness to become a shining beacon of hope.
Domingo told Destanial he had been trailing the Count for close to seven months (since the Revolution days). Watching from a distance, and making sure his destiny was not prematurely cut down. Destanial shuddered at the thought. An entire faction trained to believe he would be the savior of humanity. In return for sharing this information, Domingo dos Santos simply asked Destanial for the permission to adventure along side him. Domingo can aid him in unraveling the mystery of the Hexad. Will Destanial trust his life to a mysterious stranger with a wild tale?...
DM NOTE: For those stat-hounds that just HAVE to know, Domingo dos Santos was the first monk I made using 3E rules. He’s even took a few levels of that bodyguard Prestige Class from Sword & Fist (can’t recall the exact title) before training to become a monk. As DM, I can tell you there is NO twist here. Domingo is and means what he says. He truly is prepared (trained and ordained) to give his life for Destanial. Regardless of who lives or dies, the Order of Guardians in general (Domingo in particular) shall make sure the doomsday prophecy of Hysksosa does NOT come to pass. But who is working to SEE it’s grand finale?
……
From Episode #8 - The Unfingered Hand
Meanwhile, the monk Domingo dos Santos has served to open the mind of the young half-vistani Count of Solyss. He has filled him with a sense of destiny and purpose. Count Destanial Magorian now knows that is why his body was able to fight off Ivan's influence. Why he survived the Revolution and why the Green Eyez were unable to taint him. Because he has a destiny.
The wise words of Magda and her neice Jalise, hinting at a purpose and a greater sense of peace. The pure blooded half-breed in a greater belief. It is Destanial's purpose to prevent the Hexad from coming to pass. Prevent an event so apocalyptic, it could spell the end of humanity. He will push on with his new knowledge and greater sense of being, and delve further into the murky bowels of the Dread Realms.
……
From Episode #7 - This Thing of Ours
This Thing Of Our was also the debut of Domingo dos Santos, monk in the Order of Guardians. He will play a major part in unraveling the mystery of the Hexad. He’s a cool NPC that we all like, and the connection between him and Destanial is very strong. He will accompany them for the foreseeable future.
From Episode #4 - Death of a Darklord
The agony has been dispersed – you can do whatever you want with your share. Both Alexus and Phinean Windrider (the halfelf fiend who is part of Allein’s group of “righteous criminals”) decided to keep their share of the drug, as opposed to flipping it for sale.
So while Phinean Windrider and Alexus are touring the soldier barracks, making sale after sale of the drug – the two new friends get to conversing. They discuss the people behind the manufacturing of Agony (who are undeniabley EEEEEVIL) and Phinean tells Alexus he would love to have the chance to work with these people. No more of this “nickel and dime” stuff with Allein Verstoben. Phinean wants to run with the big dogs.
This leads us to Question #1 – Do you fear the darkness, or use it as opportunity to shine?
Alexus was feeling Phinean’s point of view and agreed with him. Alexus says he ain’t scared of nuthin, and he too would love the opportunity to work the Agony manufacturers.
……
From Episode #5 - The Beast of Solyss
So before the new Lord of Solyss, Gundarak left on his journeys - he left his operations in the hands of his most trusted advisor: Phinean Windrider.
This includes the manufacturing and distributing of Alexus' own designer drug Silent Screamz - which he patterned off his Agony addiction.
....
From Episode #11 - The Strange Story of Darkangnon Estates
Lord Alexus Darkangnon is heated. I mean, absolutely infuriated. He is CONVINCED that his partner back home in Solyss is snaking him. Phinean Windrider is a trusted companion (and fellow fiend) who fought alongside Alexus and Destanial during the Revolution. Alexus and Phinean have been through a lot together, and Alexus even promoted Phinean to assistant-guildmaster. He runs the Solyss businesses in Alexus’ absence.
Plus, both Alexus and Phinean have a little “side-business” going on behind the scenes... They maintain a lucrative money-making machine using their titles and positions as fronts for an inter-domainal drug ring. They peddle inebriants even they are not immune to. And one of Phinean’s main responsibilities (his TOP responsibility if you ask Alexus) is to maintain the Silent Screamz operation and send Alexus his share every two weeks. BUT ALEXUS HASN’T RECEIVED A SINGLE BATCH OF THE NARCOTIC. So these are the thoughts sizzling away on his brain.
......
Refreshed and reinvigorated, Alexus Darkangnon soaks in the high bestowed upon him by the Razor. While going through his personal belongings in the master chambers, he found the remains of an old package sent to the house. Unbelievably, the package was addressed to him and it was from Phinean Windrider in Solyss! But it was already opened up and the contents removed. Now Alexus (both the player and the character) was mightily confused.
He had been CONVINCED that Phinean wasn’t sending him the drugs and money he was due. He thought for SURE that Phinean was trying to snake him. But now…. he wasn’t quite sure. Apparently Phinean WAS sending the packages, but who was intercepting them? Where have all the narcotics and money gone? Prying a bit further, he found an address written by his wife’s hand. It was hastily scribbled on an old piece of parchment, and it was an address Alexus didn’t recognize. But he knew what he had to do. So Lord Darkangnon strapped the Black Razor to his back, and slipped out of the house into the storm. He was going to check out this mystery address.
......
From Episode #12 - The Rite of Terror
The first thing Lord Alexus Darkangnon did upon his return was check in with old friend Phinean Windrider. He caught Phinean lounging at the Parsed Lip, which is one of the rowdiest joints in the area.
Moving past the bouncers at the door, Alexus was greeted first by Nansen: proprietor of the Parsed Lip. He firmly shook Alexus’ hand and welcomed him home. Alexus didn’t know Nansen personally, but could tell by the scars that riveted his face and the muscles bulging from beneath his tunic that Nansen was a warrior of some repute. Nansen thanked Alexus for “gracing us” with his presence, and said all drinks were on the house. Alexus moved over to where Phinean and his bodyguards sat. Phinean did a double-take and almost spit out his wine when he saw the long-absent Lord Alexus Darkangnon striding towards him. The two friends embraced.
Alexus casually mentioned the Silent Screamz doses he was supposed to be receiving at his estates in Arkandale (see Episode 11: The Strange Story of Darkangnon Estates) and his worst fears were confirmed. Phinean WAS sending the narcotics and money to Alexus – but Alexus’ wife was intercepting the deliveries. Alexus did NOT want to tell Phinean he had been bamboozled by his own wife – so he just said “thanks and good job”. The two partners chilled for a little while and played darts with the patrons.
It wasn’t until he drifted away from Phinean in an unrelated discussion that the merchants chose to approach him.
The merchants requested to speak with Alexus, which he granted. In hushed, low tones they described the horrors that have befallen the guilds during the Lords absence. Apparently, substitute guildmaster (and the Lords right-hand accomplice) Phinean Windrider has been running a little Black-Hander extortion ring. With the aid of his thugs and mercenaries, Phinean collects a “protection tax” from the guilds and shopkeepers in return for their shops safe-keeping. Phinean has explained to them it is due to the lawless and uncontrollable nature of province expansion. As long as these taxes are paid, they will be protected from the “looters, savages and outlaws”.
But recently (after one of the shopkeepers disappearances) the taxes have gone up again. They are asking Lord Darkangnon to step in and do something about this before Phinean drives them all into bankruptcy. Before they could go into more detail, Phinean himself moved across the room and joined their conversation. The two merchants promptly shut up and Alexus could see them steadfastly avoiding eye contact with the slightly-inebriated half-elf Phinean Windrider. Phinean asked if there was a problem, and everybody was like “nooooo, no problems here, sir!” The merchants tipped their heads towards Alexus and gave him a fearful, knowing glare. Then they left.
Phinean asked Alexus what that was all about (knowing in his head what they were talking about), but Alexus just smiled and said “nothing”. Phinean smiled too when he saw the Lord’s smirk, and patted him on the shoulder. “That’s what I thought” he replied.
......
Lord Alexus Darkangnon spent most of the morning (and early afternoon) alone in his bedroom -- recuperating from the festivities the night before. But he was used to feeling like a zombie the next morning, so he just slept it off. Unfortunately for the Lord, an angry pounding on his bedchamber doors - followed by argument curse words - interrupted his rejuvenating slumber. Before he could even slide out of bed and throw on his robes, the angry pounding persisted.
Finally, with eyelids hanging low and hair a mess, Lord Darkangnon answered the pounding on his bedchamber doors. He saw a few of his measly servants trying to hold back two angry gentlemen. They were dressed appropriately, so Alexus knew right away they were important. The red-faced anger of the two men matched Alexus’ irritation at being awoken. Despite the squeaky reservations of the servants, these two men barreled right into the Lord’s bedchambers and confronted him face-to-face.
They were wealthy and influential members of the guilds. They both had a lot of time, energy and money invested in the Solyss economy. Alexus even remembered personally OKing one guy’s business venture many months back. Now, they were very upset. Their angry proclamations brought Alexus back to the night before…
These two angry merchants were now in Alexus’ face (in his private bedchambers) and DEMANDING resolution. They want Alexus to act NOW – or face the wrath of the organized guilds. They are giving Lord Darkangnon 24 hours to meet their demands, or the authorities will be notified and strikes will be organized. Alexus continued to rock his stoic poker face, but knew the merchant’s demands were serious. If the Count or the magistrates were to hear about the extortion ring, Alexus could be forced from power. This was something he could not have.
So Alexus used his 18 charisma to it’s fullest extent, and managed to get the merchants calmed down a bit. He assured them he knew nothing of this racket, and that he would promptly put an end to it. He asked that they kindly refrain from exploiting the situation further by discussing it with outside sources. Once the merchants were suitable placated, Alexus politely dismissed them.
But when they left, Alexus stared hard at himself in the mirror. His eyes were still bloodshot from the night before, and his vision felt blurry. His head ached with dehydration. Yes, the Lord would take care of this matter personally. He had given his guarantee. Alexus readied himself for the day and prepared to confront Phinean. He would end this problem today
......
Meanwhile, we join the party in progress down at the Parsed Lip. As stated earlier, Lord Alexus Darkangnon has been getting an earful from the merchant’s guilds about the extortion racket perpetuated by his associate Phinean Windrider. He promised the merchants he would “take care of the problem tonight”. So here he is.
The unsavory types that permeate the establishment roundly greeted him. Nansen, the tavern proprietor (introduced earlier) gave the Lord a hero’s welcome. He knows that without the Lord’s influence, he wouldn’t be able to get away with a lot of what he gets away with. Suffice to say, Lord Darkangnon is feeling the love in what is arguably one of the most hardcore establishments in the village.
He spots Phinean seated in the back, surrounded by associates and other yes-men. Of course he’s flanked by Zex (Phinean’s big-azz fiendish bodyguard). When Phinean sees Alexus approaching, he stands and broadly motions for the Lord to join them. As all eyes at the table turn to see the approaching Lord of Solyss Gundarak, Phinean launches into a soliloquy of praise – extolling the virtues of their fearless leader. His speech is only slightly slurred from the amount of alcohol he’s already consumed.
After gassing up the Lord (the others at the table all politely applaud him as he takes his seat) Phinean offers to buy Alexus a drink. Which he accepts. Which also turns into another three or four more. All the while the whole table is conversing, discussing and guffawing.
Later into the night (after the herd had thinned a bit) Alexus gets to discussing the important extortion issue with Phinean. The two friends lingered around the back of the tavern after Phinean dismissed his bodyguard Zex. There, amidst the cobwebs and shadows, the guild master and his assistant touched on the subject.
Alexus told him how he was accosted by two angry merchants threatening to take their charges to the authorities if something wasn’t done soon. This was indeed a serious charge – one that might even call forth Emperor Raoul Szerezia from Zeidenburg to deal with it personally. Think of the shame, the humiliation and of course – the punishment.
Both Phinean and Alexus agreed this was bad news and they couldn’t let it get that far. So how do they go about stopping this threat to their rule? Do they shape up and ship out? Does Phinean lower the tax so as to not draw the ire of the merchants? Or does Alexus ban the tax outright? Well, you should know Alexus’ character by now and you should know that he chose Option D – None of the Above.
The only way Alexus and Phinean could figure out how to stop the damning words from reaching their final destination was to cut them off at the throat. Yes, that’s right – they won’t give those merchants a CHANCE to contact the authorities. They’re gonna be all over the complaining merchants like flies on sh**. It was after much liquor and other inebriants had been consumed that Phinean and Alexus came to this conclusion. They are suitably zooted, flagrantly faded and looking for some serious drama.
The two decide to get all “retro” and return to their roots as Smoke team revolutionary assassins. They slip out of the Parsed Lip without anybody noticing and head out into the inky black night. They have bad intentions.
That night, those two merchants disappeared from their home. They were never seen again. All that could be seen on that cold dark night was a lone carriage rocking back and forth beneath the pale moonlight – just past the outskirts of Solyss. The horrible song of depraved torture and acute suffering can be heard emanating from within. Both Alexus and Phinean (caught up in the rapture of their drug-induced euphoria) catch an even bigger high as their torturing of the poor merchant goes well into the early morning hours. Faces splattered with blood, and wet instruments of torture at their feet, Alexus and Phinean make certain that their little secret stays within the circle.
The Death of Darius of Sithicus
From Episode #12 - The Rite of Terror
So without telling the other PCs ANY of what he had learned, Darius set off on horseback to the approximate location the smuggler had given him as “check point”. What would he find waiting for him? What horrible truth will he uncover? What tragedy will befall him? Only the Dark Powerz know for sure… mwah-ha-ha-ha!
Darius of Sithicus, of course, had has his own leads to pursue. Slipping out of the village before nightfall he was able to bypass the Counts curfew. It wasn't hard for him to stray beyond the sight of the guard towers and leave the roads behind. His travels would take him far beyond the protective veil of Solyss - into the untamed wildness of southern Gundarak. A place where even lawmen feared to step. Darius had discovered a possible checkpoint just north of Solyss - where Duke Gundars torture chambers were once so fertile.
So as I alluded to earlier, two PC actions played a significant role in the fate of Darius from Sithicus. #1 was the escape of Alena Nurpašhi from the grip of Gorthaur the Abhorred, and subsequent releasing of Darius’ secret whereabouts. Gorthaur’s crooked eyes (the horribly scarred, monstrous goblins that follow him) saw Darius stalking the woodlands beyond Solyss – stretching into dangerous grounds. Dangerous grounds that are fiercely protected – a place where few tred because of the bitter memories entrenched within. Acting as a sort of eyes and ears to this forsaken land are these half-mutilated goblinoid creatures. Some way or another, after his escape from Heinfroth’s sanitarium, Gorthaur was able to draw a few of these creatures his way (finding them easily controllable and reliable). Truth is, it was less Gorthaur’s “charms” – so to say – then it was this evil force LETTING Gorthaur borrow a few. That’s where the blue-haired one called Trillian comes in. Trillian is a creature I got out of the 3E Psionics book (the little blue thing in the back – name escapes me) that is utterly loyal to this thus far unseen “evil force”. He’s only making it look like he (and his distorted goblyn brethren) are under Gorthaur’s control. Gorthaur is so blind to his whole “crusade” (which ironically holds all the merit in the world – read on) that he has overlooked this benevolent (but richly evil) ally he has acquired. He just wanted to hurt Alena a little by tattling on her ally – he never suspected the true evil he was unwittingly involved with.
#2 was Count Destanial Magorian’s most recent ruling that all black-cloaked stragglers found after dark are to be detained for questioning. Out-of-game (when Destanial’s player first made the rule) I immediately thought back to the time we had just finished playing through Episode #10: Corrupted Innocents. That was the adventure from Book of Crypts with the emordenung assassin disguised as a little girl. In the end Alexus finally killed her with a single shot to the head from his pistol. After the Game was over – just me, my girl and Alexus’ player were left. We were watching the News and about an hour earlier (just about when Alexus was peeling the cap of little Elenia) a Broken City convenience store clerk was shot and killed in a robbery. The news boldly proclaimed that Broken City police were “looking for a black male in baggy clothing”… which is abso-friggin-lutely EVERYBODY in the city! For some reason when Destanial made the rule that all black-cloaked stragglers are to be detained, that was what I thought of. And I wished for some kind of way I could twist that ruling back around on him. Unbelievably, I would get my wish in just a little while. Read on…
Darius of Sithicus is a ranger at heart; so dealing with his character was way different than dealing with the other more urban-dwelling characters. I really tried to accentuate the difference in character archetypes by taking the time to vividly describe Darius’ attunement with the land. Not a physical connection or anything, just the way he was able to harvest the lands for information and answers - like nature could communicate with him. So I was at my finest as I described the land’s palpable descent into corruption around him – a sense that only his character would be able to derive. Any other character would spot no noticeable differences. Only experienced woodsmen. Make sense?
So as Darius descended further into this deserted hotbed of wickedness – even despite the already absent wildlife – he could tell something was just wrong about this area. The grasses and fields faded in color and vibrancy until they gradually crumbled into dust beneath his heels. The trees became noticeably darker. Caked with grime with no remaining leaves to speak of – stripped bare of their bright October colors and replaced by a dismal grayish hue. Even by cover of night Darius could make these distinctions.
Then, it started snowing.
DM NOTE - I used as similar scenario way back in the day with the PCs first entered Gundarak.
From Episode #4 - Death of a Darklord
As they began their trek through the forests to the city of Zeidenburg, BLACK SNOW began to fall! The smell of sulfur was strong in the air, as the black flaxkes floatef from heaven – coating the pure whiteness around them in a sickly gray dust. It didn’t take the players long to realize they were being rained upon by ASH. Ashes from the giant crematoriums Duke Gundar has constructed to deal with his enemies…
Episode #12 - Rite of Terror continued...
Of course describing this scene at the table, the other players (Destanial and Alexus) immediately thought back to the same picture (it WAS a highly memorable adventure after all). So suddenly THEY got all nervous in their chairs (thinking this is too eerily-similar to Duke Gundar’s reign), which in turn made Alena and Darius’ players more nervous! And they didn’t even know why! But I mean seriously – if a sky fall of falling ash isn’t a harbinger of foul things to come, I don’t know what is. Even after all the signs pointed in the wrong direction, Darius chose to continue on.
Toneih Ellis player of Darius wrote...
Way to bring on the terror my man, but we all know that at this point the character and the dice took control. The Player knew what was up, but if luck rolled a different number...
Episode #12 - Rite of Terror continued...
The warning signs persisted but Darius continued to ignore them. This time, the warnings came in the form of various home-brewed traps and springs set up in the area. Most likely, any other character would have set off at LEAST one trap but Darius is no ordinary traveler. He’s a very experienced ranger and woodsman. So he has a higher chance of noticing these things. And notice them he did. Wicked, vile traps – beyond the comprehension of most savages, he would presume. Whoever crafted them had to have at least a smidgen of intelligence – albeit very sick and twisted. And STILL Darius persisted! Didn’t he get the freakin clue? Even Alena’s player was saying “Uhhh, Toneih? Maybe you’d better reconsider…” But on he pressed. Looking for answers, channeling forth the Solitary Outkast spirt that dwells within him.
Remember the scene a little earlier when Alena Nurpašhi was on her little night-time stroll? The part where she was stalked and surrounded by a bunch of mutilated goblins? I basically replayed the same scene over with Darius right now. But THIS time, it took on a darker, more twisted fashion…
These horrible little monsters that skittered in and out of the foliage around were terribly mangled just like the ones Alena had encountered. Horrible scars, missing eyes and limbs, puss-filled wounds and lice-ridden clothing. But there was something even worse about the variety Darius encountered.
Like I said, his attunement with the land is strong – so much so that he can feel the life around him. That’s why he could feel the land slowly dying as he continued with his journey. But THESE things… these goblinoid things – don’t even register on his radar. They are oddly cold and an affront to natural life itself. Unlike the goblins Alena had battled, THESE monsters were worse. They were fiendish undead.
When this realization was publicly broadcasted, the reaction at the gaming table was appropriate. Alexus just whistled while Destanial’s player chuckled with anticipation. Alena was all like “whoa, dude. Better get a move on”. Toneih had that “oh-crap-I-went-too-far” smirk and smack on the head. Oh well, too late now. Darius of Sithicus drew his weapons and readied for the ambush. It came.
Combat Ensues
Fiendish Undead is MY own unique template and I added it to a few goblins. It has a deeper purpose – believe me. But just now, they fought very viciously against poor, outnumbered Darius of Sithicus. He did best, believe me. But these weren’t the little schmucks Alena was chucking around earlier. These were the real-deal. They were representations of this whole foul area. Like the three-eyed fish in the Simpsons that lived too close to the nuclear plant.
At first Darius tried to stand his ground, but soon enough retreat was the only viable option. But f-it. I figure if I as DM have gone this far – I might as well go all the way. So instead of letting Darius escape right away, I actually push him closer to his original destination. For just over the next hill – resting on the horizon – are the old liquidation towers once used with extreme malice during Duke Gundar’s reign. And guess what? A thin plume of black smoke can be seen rising from the chimneys.
So of COURSE Darius’ player can’t turn back now! I mean - this was what he was looking for the entire time! After what seemed like endless road blocking and hesitation on my behalf as DM, maybe Darius’ player was thinking I didn’t WANT him to reach the towers. But the truth was I was trying to WARN him about the towers! So now, even after being physically throttled by the undead goblins (with more attacks eminent) Darius felt he couldn’t turn back.
Maybe things would’ve been different if he did turn back. Maybe not. Maybe those undead beasts would have given chase and staked him to the ground he fell on. Maybe he could’ve lived to flee back to Solyss. As it is, Darius chose to flee from the creatures in the OPPOSITE direction – towards the old liquidation towers.
And all the while those things continue to ambush him. Blow after foul blow rained down upon Darius as he tried desperately to escape their grip. Nothing could be done, it seemed. For every undead goblin that fell, another would take its place. And even those whose fingers or limbs were severed by the blade of Darius continued to fight on – their limbs still twitching on the ground. They were ferocious, unholy monstrosities that carry plague and disease with every strike. Wicked, evil and very contagious diseases.
Darius made it to the towers.
Matter of fact, he made it all the way past the gates and almost to the actual towers themselves before being struck down. The tree limbs and overhangs he counted on to keep him alive laughed and crumbled on him.
He had come so far – he saw the towers. Knew the legends were true – new evil was churning forth from within.
But WHAT’S INSIDE THE LIQUIDATION TOWERS?
What’s going on? Who’z behind it all? Darius of Sithicus would never know...
He died that night
From Episode #2 - Love's Bitter Sting
When we last left off – there were big problems for the PCs in Teufeldorf, Gundarak after they mercy-killed Duke Gundar’s bride to be. They were rescued in part by Rudolph van Richten, who revealed to them his involvement in die Drehzahl (underground rebellion party in Gundarak). The goal of this 20-year organization is the elimination of Duke Gundar from his post of power. The Revolution has their own leaders they hope to replace Gundar with when they storm Castle Hunadora.
Unfortunately, the same night the cottage burnt to the ground – Solyss Zadaraq was caught and arrested by Gundarakian soldiers! The other PCs were unaware of his incarceration until it was too late. They would have been powerless in their efforts to rescue him anyway – especially after Duke Gundar himself made an appearance in the Village center. He had called forth every village resident to the gallows to witness the execution of four Gundarakian criminals.
Upon the gallows - four bound villagers with black hoods over their faces languished beneath the resting coils of the Hangman’s noose.
For the record – upon the official introduction of Duke Gundar as an NPC, I used that picture of the crazy dude with children chained to his armor from the Book of Vile Darkness.
The first criminal on display was a young Vistani boy who accidentally impregnated a local girl – for this crime he was publicly castrated before hanging from the wrong end of the noose.
The next pair of black hoods Duke Gundar tore off simultaneously, revealing a homeless couple found guilty of pumpkin smashing (as everything in Gundarak is considered property of the Duke). For this crime, Duke Gundar took a war hammer to their craniums to illustrate his point.
The fourth, and final “criminal” was revealed to be Solyss Zadaraq himself. When the black hood was removed from his head – the players were absolutely SHOCKED – a highly memorable moment. Duke Gundar claimed he was responsible for stealing flowers from the courtyard (this ties into the strange prophetic dream young Jorge had about the “white flowers”).
For this crime, Duke Gundar severed Solyss’ hand before leaving him to dangle in the wind.
Almost immediately, their NPC friend Beans failed his fear check, collapsed to the ground in revulsion and began to vomit uncontrollably.
Then, as the rain began to pour down – Duke Gundar went off on a red-faced rant about the good of the people, just causes and personal properties (alluding to his missing bride-to-be). This incited his followers into a FRENZY of xenophobia and outrage. This subsequently caused ALL the PCs to fail a horror check and flee the festering riot.
……
Later that same night, before everybody tried to lay down for the night – Beans knew it was time to move on. The loss of good his friend Solyss – combined with his own addictions and insecurity – showed him this was all too real. He was quitting and going home.
This news too shocked the PCs, as their foundation of four had just been reduced again. That morning they bid him a tearful farewell (another memorable moment).
It was around this time the remaining PCs (Destanial and Alexus) were introduced to die Drehzehl (many who they recognized as simple townsfolk working undercover). Rudolph van Richten was there too, informing the Revolution of his recent findings. It was HERE the players first learned Duke Gundar was a vampire!
From Episode #8 - The Unfingered Hand
Background Check on tha Q-Monstah and his character Lavernous Vernichtung
Tha Q-Monstah is an old school friend of mine who I hooked on the Game back in the day. Even though he's a few years older than me, once he was exposed to the MSD-virus, my Monstah was officially unleashed. The fires have burned hot in his belly for the decade since. This kid lives and breathes the Game.
After High School the big guy enlisted in the Army and left Broken City for good. Five years later, he's an American livin out in Germany. He chose a local girl as wifey. But Q's a true soldier, and the binds of the Circle are strong within him. He's ALWAYZ stayed in touch. We discuss our respective campaigns over the phone, and when we went through the 3-year Dead Zone (where gaming was temporarily extinguished on the block), Q-Monstah was over seas hollering bout "dedication".
Well now the big guy is coming back home for a family wedding. It's been about two years since we've seen him last. He'll only be here a week, and we fittin to game TWO nights in his honor. I told my Monstah I have the perfect role for him to play in this session...
......
Q-Monstah, on the other hand, was less of a player and more of a Player-DM. I didn't want him to be a witness to the story, I wanted him to BE the story. So I told him how, in typical Ravenloft fashion, we would disguise a bad-guy as a good guy and hope to seduce the players further down the dark path.
See, our good friend Lord Alexus Darkangnon has already failed TWO Dark Powerz checks. That puts him well on the road to eternal damnation. And the Dark Powerz are hoping to entice him to continue on. That's where Q-Monstah's character Lavernous Vernichtung comes in: the Dark Powerz Temptation
I told my friend Q to come up with the most vile, despicable, evil Player Character background he could think of. And after being immersed in German culture for five years, he chose to create an evil PC that once worked in the Nazi Concentration camps (DM Note: I disagreed with this archetype and tried to persuade Q otherwise, but the Monstah was loose and there was no stopping him). So Death Camp operator it is. Somehow, he came from Gothic Earth Germany when he was swallowed by the Mists and deposited in Darkon. He immediately set about trying to find a way home.
After the mind-altering effects of the land erased his prior existence, the new Lavernous Vernichtung fell into the hands of Martira Bay Kargat agent Tavelia. Nobody quite knows of the bond or link between the former death camp operator and the high priestess of the Overseer, but in the end Lavernous appeared to “see the light” and became an ordained minister of the religion. So in addition to the “dark secret” of his previous past (despite the fact he no longer remembers it), he also conceals the “kiss of darkness” bestowed upon him by Tavelia (he’s a VAMPIRE!).
See, Tavelia herself is under direct orders from the King of Darkon, as she is a relatively high-ranking member of the Kargat. However, her goals and duties as “high priestess” of the Overseer faith don’t ALWAYS coincide with the goals of her master. She TOO has a fleet of loyal followers and underlings she trusts with all her black heart. The closest of which was granted the gift of “immortality”, and thus became members of Tavelia’s own Kargatane branch. There are plenty of normal, evil humans who all seek to acquire the secret of immortality from their leaders, but Tavelia keeps her true nature and that of her Kargatane strictly secret. Nobody knows there are vampires inhabiting the “sacred” Temple of the Overseer.
As a matter of fact, the entire false religion was designed to attract Heroes of Light and traveling do-gooders. The Temple is simply a front for the evil Kargat to closely monitor the movements and actions of potential adversaries in its community. Many a good-hearted individual has perished at their hands…
But whateva the bond between Tavelia and PC Lavernous Vernichtung is, nobody can deny the fact they are exceptionally close. So much so, many believe the two to be betrothed (despite explicit religious law forbidding marriage between ordained Overseer preachers).
When King Azalin sent word down to Tavelia about his plot to steal the Unfingered Hand of Power from Styrix the night hag, she felt there would be nobody better for the job than PC Lavernous Vernichtung (she is oblivious to the fact Lavernous subtly manipulated her to get this task assigned to him). As a Kargat agent (the right hands of Azalin), Tavelia was privy to certain secret information. Like the fact the destruction of this “Unfingered Hand of Power” can lead to a possible escape route from the Demiplane of Dread. And how foolish was it of her to relay this sensitive secret information to members of her OWN inner circle (Lavernous included)? Very foolish.
See, in the back of Lavernous’ mind, he’s STILL searching for an escape from Ravenloft back to Gothic Earth Germany (he just has no idea WHY the thought is there). So when word of this assignment came up within Tavelia’s Kargatane branch, he sued for admittance immediately. While Tavelia feels she has assigned the best-qualified Kargatane agent to the task, Lavernous Vernichtung has his OWN secret motives.
An evil, wicked plot that involves the spilling of fresh scholar’s blood…
......
The Q-Monstah and his character make their debuts...
After I've made it clear that the players have been expected, I set about creating the peak of the scene. This involves such as extracurriculara as mood lighting and cued musical accompaniment. The sun is setting on Martira Bay, and the High Priestess and her men shall be returning from their "journey" soon.
Finally, I described the rolling rumble of a dozen approaching steeds, and the breeze that whistled through the church, fluttering torches in its wake. Suddenly, the huge double doors burst open, and the silhouetted form of a dozen armored knights appeared. All candles are extinguished from the strong gust of wind, leaving only stout torches to light the cathedral.
The knights step forth into the chamber, all adorned with symbols of Darkon and the Overseer. The leader stepped forward to remove his helmet... and long raven tresses spilled forth. This was no man, it was the High Priestess, Tavelia, and her beauty was entrancing. Immediately, Lord Alexus Darkangnon was captivated. She greeted the two players (and two NPCs) and explained how grateful she was of their arrival. The stars have been aligning for their visit.
A second man stepped forth from the ensemble of armored knights. Tavelia introduced him as a spiritual advisor and guide for the players. Lavernous Vernichtung removed his helm, and the Q-Monstah was introduced into the Game!
From here I turned the flow of the Game over to the Q-Monstah, as the now THREE players (and two NPCs) were settled comfortably into the Temple sitting room. Now previously, I had been switching back and forth between the players during scenes, and this scene was no exception. I have succeeded in introducing Ellis, Alexus, Destanial and now Lavernous to each other, but our female player Misha tha Lost still waits in the wings. Plus, with this being her first session and all, I really wanted her to see how the pros get down. Yaknow! So she silently observes the masters at work (referring to Alexus and the Q-Monstah, NOT Ellis Valdemear AKA the Cemetery Home Outkast).
The night before this session was the night of Q-Monstah's return from Germany, and we stayed up all night discussing the Game. So when I turned the reigns over to him at this point, he was well-versed on the story background. I put it in his hands to propel the Game forward.
Lavernous went on to educate the characters on something he called the "Unfingered Hand Of Death". He told them how the artifact was created of the purest evil, and only a chosen few can hope to destroy it. He told them the wicked magic item was crafted by none other than the good professor Myles J. Witherspoon. This was a lie, yet the players were shocked by the false revelation. That's why the players had been "chosen" for the task; due to their close proximity to the professor's research. PC Ellis Valdemear couldn't believe his ears. He had no idea his mentor's research dabbled in the dark necromantic arts and thrived on murder. That was me and Q-Monstah's goal: strip the kid of all safety blankets. No home, no family and no friends. He needed something to hold onto, and the sanctity of the Temple was enticing to him.
Lavernous told them how the evil artifact was just out of the Temple's reach when the professor was alive, but when he died so too did all his magical wards. But just as the Temple was making their move to acquire and destroy the item, it was stolen from their grasp. Now they need the players help to recover the Unfingered Hand of Power.
......
July 8, 736 (nighttime)
Imagine if you will, the quiet chambers of a priest’s private study. A place where the priest (or priestess) can contemplate in silence, and ponder his/her duties alone. Alone in the sanctity of his/her own thoughts. A place that is off-limits to most, if not all, of the churches clergymen. It is in this place of quiet seclusion that Lord Alexus Darkangnon prowls with deliberation.
A man of his caliber will have no problem thwarting what little defense the clergy have mustered, as his skills are far beyond those of your normal man. It took the Lord little effort to sneak past the temple guards, and even less effort to enter the chambers (all without disturbing a thing or breaking a lock). And so, he snoops in peace. He’s not quite sure what he’s looking for, but knows there must be more to the Unfingered Hand than he’s being told. He hopes to find a way to conquer the powers of the Hand, and use them to his utmost advantage. He is confident of his abilities (some would say “cocky”).
So you can just imagine his absolute surprise at being caught with his hand in the cookie jar. When Lavernous Vernichtung (aka the Q-Monstah) showed up unannounced at the threshold, catching the Lord totally unawares, Alexus knew what it felt like to be on the business end of his “move silently/hide in shadows” combo. His heart threatened to jump out of his throat, but he maintained his composure as best he could (which is quite well, considering he DOES have an 18 charisma).
But Lavernous didn’t interrogate him. He didn’t even snarl angrily, or demand an explanation. None of that. Instead, he smiled slyly and entered the room with Alexus, closing the study door behind him. Outside, the white moon shone brightly over the city of Martira Bay.
ROLE-PLAYING BONANZA!
I love, love, LOVE my players. They’re the best in the world, I swear. And it’s times like this I forget I’m even running the Game. I mean, I straight up chilled behind the Screen as these two cats absolutely ripped it. Just ripped it to shreds. MADD entertaining. It was great to see two old friends jump right back into the swing of things with no hesitation (remember, Q-Monstah just returned home from Germany after three years. He will return to Germany at the conclusion of this adventure). They really made me smile, considering this IS the first exposure Misha tha Lost has EVER had to D&D, and they made the Game come off madd cool. Even Cemetery Home Outkast was caught up in the scene, watching with reverence as the two pro’s worked their magic.
A transcript wouldn’t do this scene justice (even if I could remember each exchange!) Basically, each played their character as being one-up on the other. Like they had secret info that only they were privy to. But only in Lavernous’ case was this true… Lavernous knew Alexus was enthralled by the powers of the Hand, and subtly played to this fact. He never once asked why the Lord snuck into High Priestess Tavelia’s study. He KNEW why.
So as Lavernous casually withdrew a Red Velvet wine bottle from the cabinet, and arranged two glasses, he discussed Power with the Lord of Solyss Gundarak. The need and want all mortals have for it. And wouldn’t it be wondrous if your wish for Power could be granted? Not necessarily just Power of the body, but Power of the mind and Power over others. Alexus wasn’t quite sure where Lavernous was going with this topic, but he played along. He stated that much Power came with his position as Lord, and Power DOES breed contempt (as evidenced by the numerous attempts on his life). But Lavernous wondered aloud if there was a Power strong enough and capable of ERASING this contempt. A source so potent that none would dare cross those who wield it. Was Lavernous talking about the Unfingered Hand? Alexus wasn’t sure, but he liked what he heard. With both glasses set up, Lavernous poured the dark crimson Red Velvet wine. Continuing their conversation, Lavernous fiddled around with a small jewelry chest on one of the book shelves. He passed Alexus a blood-red ruby for no discernable reason. As Lavernous continued his soliloquy, Alexus examined the jewel. Remember, Alexus is a whiz at appraisal and immediately recognized the value of the gem. It was real, and real expensive. Lavernous took it back (talking about a “wealth of power”).
Finally, Lavernous asked the Lord if he’d rather be feared or respected…
After a moment of contemplation, the Lord replied Fear. Cuz it “lasts longer”.
Lavernous chuckled…then proceeded to crush the ruby between his fingers, reducing it to a very fine dust. As the Lord looked on in amazement, Lavernous sprinkled the gem powder into their individual wine glasses.
Then he proposed a toast.
“To Power”.
Alexus accepted.
......
PC Lavernous Vernichtung (aka the Q-Monstah). This former death-camp operator fell victim to Darkon’s memory-altering effects many years ago. He was swept up in an affair with the wicked vampiress Tavelia, and condemned to undead servitude soon thereafter. But he never forgot his true mission: Escape from the Demi-Plane of Dread (he just has no idea WHY). Through his studies, he has learned of an arcane, esoteric (and disturbed) method of escape. One that combines negative-life forces, full moons, magick rituals and scholar’s blood. But little does even Lavernous know, Azalin is fully aware of this alternate method (this is his contingency plan). So in order to steal the Unfingered Hand for himself, AND have enough pawns at his disposal, Lavernous had to pretend he was riding with Tavelia all the way to the bitter end (but as most bad-guy relationships go, he plans on betraying her in the end). This brings us to our unwitting pawns in today’s Game: the Player Characters.
Lavernous Vernichtung (posing as a cleric of the Overseer) has convinced the players that the Unfingered Hand must be destroyed. So he’s got them all revved up and rearing to go, ready to save the world.
That’s where we pick up the story now. Just as Lavernous is about to lead his pack of puppets into the Darkonian wilderness, where his thirst for blood and hunger for power will drive them ALL to extreme lengths…
......
Leading the charge was Lavernous Vernichtung, who requested some cover from the storm while he poured through a “divine” tome. He convinced the other characters that a special incantation must be read to summon the “coiled serpent”. In actuality, it is a clever ploy on his behalf to begin the opening of the escape portal. The only X-factor for him at this point is the unpredictable rainstorm. Will it effect the spells requirement for a full moon? Lavernous does NOT see any of the PCs as a threat (CLASSIC downfall for a villain). He has asked for and received the coveted Unfingered Hand (the bad guy has the artifact! Watch out!).
Now if you recall, Q-Monstah (player of Lavernous Vernichtung) is only here for a two-shot session. After that he returns home to Germany. He wanted to play a powerful character, and got his wish with Lavernous the vampire. He knew his job was to set-up the players, betray the professor and escape Ravenloft through the portal. But he had NO idea I was gonna sic Styrix on him! So this last encounter came as a surprise even to ol’ Q-Monstah (who thus far has kinda been “co-DMing” from the other side of the Screen).
Styrix finally dispatches Destanial and Domingo, and makes one last desperate lunge for the Hand. But it’s too late!
With a brilliant FLASH of white light, the pool of scholars blood at the base of the World Tree temporarily begins to shimmer and ripple. Another CRACK of lightning hits the World Tree, practically splitting it in two and raining shards of fiery wood down upon the players. With those ominous Mistz rising up all around the cemetery, obscuring vision and blotting out the remaining undead, Lavernous completes the incantation with a wave of the hands.
Lord Alexus Darkagnon strides toward Lavernous to collect on his debt, but the evil vampire just winks and smirks. Q-Monstah basically laughed and told Alexus he got played. You should have seen the look on Alexus’ face at that point. He NEVER thinks he’s the pawn until the final façade is shattered. Happens every time! LOL
With undead corpses lying scattered around them, a wild nigh-hag charging from the rear, Professor Valdemear lying bleeding to death and Destanial and Domingo laid out, Misha does the only rational thing her character can do: she follows Lavernous Vernichtung through the portal!
Styrix emits a long, harsh mournful wail as her pet creation is sucked into oblivion with Lavernous and Misha. Another bright FLASH temporarily blinds Alexus, and when the spots clear from his eyes he is able to survey the carnage.
Not a rotting, undead body remains. The Many Worlds Cemetery is as cold and desolate as it was when they entered.
Styrix’s shrill screech echoes through the night, but she too appears to have vanished.
.....
Epilogue
As far as Q-Monstah is concerned, his trip home from Germany was worth every cent. This is the kid who calls me up long-distance and talks to me for HOURS about our old homebrewed 2E world. This is the same kid that refused to hear me when I told him 3E is waaaaay better than 2E (he’s kinda stubborn and set in his ways). He refused to hear anything about this new “3E hootnanny bulls***”, as he called it. But suffice to say, at the conclusion of this adventure, 3E D&D had made a new fan. He too couldn’t believe the ease of the rules, and loved the options out the whazzoo. While Lavernous Vernichtung is officially retired, Q-Monstah WILL make a return. The game went soooo well, the Q-Monstah found time to return again to America four months later. So you will read about his return to the table in a short while. Be on the lookout for Feast Of Goblyns Part I, coming soon to a messageboard near you!
From Episode #9 - The Cedar Chest
With their visit to the mystic at least putting a name and gender on the killer, the players set out to learn more about "Ejrik Spellbender".
So the players returned to the estates of Thea Gyntheos, to find the area taped off and boarded up. But they weren't gonna let that stop them. They found their way inside and started snooping around.
DM Note: Now as DM, I'm always saying how important the dice are to the Game. I could never imagine trying diceless gaming. They deliver those truly random elements. And once again, the rolls of the dice determined the entire outcome of this adventure. I went into this final encounter ready for the worst. I knew this "cedar chest" they were looking for was gonna give the answer they needed. What they chose to do with this knowledge was on them, and I was eagerly awaiting their reaction. I fully anticipated this information to fall into the right hands, and finally the dark secret would be out. But destiny, fate and luck were heavy this night. Now, the module already says the chest will be found under a rug in the kitchen, so it is where it is.
The players enter the house and start poking around. I ask them where they wanna search first, and Destanial answers the bedroom. He wants to search through Thea's personal items. Alena wants to check the main room where the murder actually occurred. She checks the ornate wooden kickboards, moldings and marble-inlaid fireplace. There are plenty of cabinets filled with china to rummage through.
Lord Alexus Darkangnon volunteers to search the kitchen.
OK then. So while Destanial is upstairs poking through the diary of the deceased Thea Gyntheos, and Alena is looking behind paintings, Alexus is in the kitchen finding the trap door under the rug.
I gave plenty of opportunities for the others (especially Alena who is only two rooms away) to hear what was going on in the kitchen. But they didn't. They were blissfully unaware Alexus was undoing the rusty latch and opening the small wooden trap door on the floor. His nose threatened to sneeze from the clouds of dust, but he held it in. He quickly scanned the room around him, but the others were busy with their own pursuits. Alexus lift out the infamous Cedar Chest and quietly closed the trap door, replacing the rug over it. He still didn't call for the others. Instead, he used his thieves picks to force open the lock and reveal its contents...(his super-high skill checks out powered the failing wizards lock cast upon the box).
He found a leather satchel monogrammed with the initials MJW, in which was contained a portfolio of documents meticulously labeled and organized. Lord Darkangnon had no idea what these papers were or what they meant. What intrigued him more was the other worthwhile discovery sharing the Cedar Chest: a human heart. The odor of rot and death was unmistakable. Alexus knew that smell very well. A "tiny, stained scroll protrudes from one of the red-brown arteries". Again Alexus glanced over both shoulders, but his comrades were nowhere to be seen.
He removed the scrap of paper, and read the hastily scribbled words. "Black Razor".
Per rule of the module, upon this revelation Alexus was forced to make a Horror check. He failed. And of all the failure possibilities, Alexus has to roll perhaps the most deadliest: obsession.
Suddenly it all made sense to him. It came rushing back to him like a dam bursting. The late night visits with the vampire Lavernous, the mysterious black-outs and haunting images of dead bodies and blood pools. The whispers in the wind that he now knew belonged to the Black Razor. Urging him on. Encouraging him. Alexus was the "host" Eron Nalwand spoke of. He now knew why Alisia had observed the black cloud of death following him. He knew he was Ejrik's unwitting pawn and suffering victim. He also knew he could tell nobody else of this...
Yes, Alexus slipped the bloody message into his pocket before calling forth the others and alerting them to his discovery. He found the Cedar Chest, and claimed all it contained was the leather satchel with the folder of papers, and a rotting human heart. What the connection or meaning was, the Lord feigned ignorance. The other players were completely stumped, in game and out of game.
See, as players they witnessed the whole scene unfolding as Alexus' player guided his character through the discovery. But when it came time for me to reveal the Black Razor revelation, I slipped the message to Alexus' player on a slip of scrap paper. The other two players never saw what it read. Therefore, their characters have no idea he found the paper, and the players have no idea what it said.
......
They left the premises with the leather satchel. The papers inside were dated 50-some-odd years ago, and written in two distinct handwriting patterns. The first, and most bountiful script went on for pages and pages, and the players could immediately recognize it as the handwriting of Ejrik Spellbender (from the notes he left behind at each murder). The second handwriting script flowed for pages more, and was signed off "Professor Myles J. Witherspoon".
......
And so ends the discovery of the Cedar Chest. Lord Darkangon alone has learned the true nature of these mysterious murders, as it is his body playing host to the diabolical Ejrik Spellbender. These sudden bursts of emotion, violence and carnage drew forth the corrupted spirit of Ejrik Spellbender to inhabit Alexus' body. The same body that wields Ejrik's magic jar receptacle: the Black Razor. How long has he been exerting his Will over Alexus? Have Alexus' twisted, selfish actions actually been directed by Ejrik? Every action driven towards the goal of freeing Ejrik from his magical prison? What thoughts were his own, and which belonged to the entity inhabiting his weapon? The same weapon he was now obsessed with.
Lord Alexus Darkangnon didn't know the answer to these questions, but he did know he couldn't reveal his secret. For if he did, the very source of his power (the Black Razor) would surely by destroyed. He knew if the Count learned of the sword's history, he would take it from him. And he couldn't bear to have the sword taken from him. It was part of him. Therefore, he would need to concoct a scenario to keep the other players suspicions at bay.
......
READER REMARKS
I'd always disliked the heavy-handedness of this adventure. Forcing a player to be the murderer is a liberty I'd be unwilling to take with my players. But using the Black Razor as the receptacle is a touch of genius. Everyone knows how PCs love to hang onto their favourite magic items and I can totally see why Alexus wouldn't wanna give his up.
Nice job reworking this adventure, MSD!
From Episode #4 - Death of a Darklord
Raoul Szerezia wears his plate mail with pride.
The crest of House Szerezia is prominently displayed on his chets piece and shield, his purple cape pours down his back like wine.
In one hand, he clutches his tighmaevril sword.
Made of the purest Blood Silver, this weapon belonged to his father who died in the orginal Black Orchards Raid (see the Ravenloft Black Box for details).
The sword is custom designed for Blood Usurpation. With this blade he will grab the lands of Gundarak in his palm and SQUEEZE the vile juices of Duke Gundar from its soil. He will sever the Dukes bond to the land once and for all.
DM Note – see the Birthright boxed set for more info on Bloodlines, Blood Abilities, Blood Theft and Usurpation – as well as further info on tighmaevril weapons.
……
Angrily soldiers approach the traveler, shouting expletives.
But the mystery man still doesn’t move.
Instead, he THROWS off hs cloak to reveal the colors and symbols of die Drehzehl – the revolution.
Before the soldiers can even gasp in shock – the covered wagon (filled with explosives) EXPLODES into a cloud of heat and debris.
The Revelution’s opening statement has been made.
……
Like an implosion, die Drehzehl swallows Castle Hunadora whole until all that remains to conquer is its rotten core.
Duke Gundar sits on his rotten throne with his own tighmeavril blade in his lap.
His closest confidants and advisors surround him - EXCEPT the Black Sorcerer who has disappeared in the chaos.
Just then, Lt. Kon Morder bursts into his Duke’s throne room and exclaims to his leader – “the revolution is right outside!”
Duke Gundar stands at attention.
With a simple nod to his people, he orders them to arm and prepare for their final stand.
……
With the battle cry of die Drehzehl ringing through the halls, Revolution leader Raoul Szerezia followed by Gavin der Stahlzaha and a few others BURST into Gundar’s throne room!
As soon as they cross the threshold – three of Szerezia’s men instantaneously drop dead – just like that.
The sheer EVIL that radiates from Duke Gundar is enough to make even the strongest man cower in fear. But this effect can be nullified by Raoul Szerezia’s own aura of COURAGE.
Raoul Szerezia and Duke Gundar lock eyes.
More Revolution warriors swarm into the room and engage Gundar’s troops in battle.
Lt. Morder zones in on the ranger Gavin der Stahlzah who cracks his whip with anticipation.
Amidst the chaos, Duke Gundar and Raoul Szerezia circle each other like hawks.
……
Inside that throne room – a battle wages for control of Gundarak.
Bodies of soldiers and revolution warriors alike litter the floor and blood stains the wall. Duke Gundar and Raoul Szerezia have an epic clash in the center of the room while their allies battle around them.
Alexus finally emerges into the throne room and immediately seeks out his arch-nemises Lt. Kon Morder!
Destanial calls out the Revolution war cry and lunges towards Duke Gundar with the blade of Solyss outstretched (he’s STILL carrying his old friends Solyss’ sword).
When Lt. Morder sees Alexus rushing into the room his eyes widen in rage. He focuses his attention exclusively upon the oncoming Alexus Darkangnon – a classic “so we meet again!” moment.
……
Duke Gundar had no problem ridding himself of Revolution warriors who buzz around him like gnats. He’s focused on his arch-enemy Raoul Szerezia. He mocks Raoul and says he will CRUSH him like he did his father and grandfather.
AGAIN the two brings their swords together in a might collison – a fiery rain of red sparks cascades down upon them. It if weren’t so brutal it may even look beautiful.
Destanial interjects himself into the fray – more than annoying Duke Gundar. He brushes off the puny Destanial with a wave of his hand, but the determined young man won’t cave.
……
As the battle between Alexus and Lt. Morder continues – Destanial is momentarily left alone, staring down the evil Duke Gundar.
He raises the blade of Solyss and cries out his name.
This is the moment Destanial has been waiting for. The vow he made to avenge his friends death is still fresh in his mind as he DRIVES the sword towards Duke Gundar.
But the vile Duke Gundar deflects Destanial’s blow [b]and shatters his precious sword![/b]
Like the blade of his deceased friend – Destanial has found his will crushed.
……
Suddenly, something snaps within Destanial. The anger and rage rushe forth like a dam bursting.
He grabs the blood rose stake and like a wild animal, jumps back into the fray.
Wheeling around with tremendous force, Duke Gundar catches Raoul’s arm with a wicked shot – BREAKING his shoulder and arm!
DM Note – TWO critical hits from the Duke using oldschool Combat & Tactics critical hit charts.
Raoul cries out in pain and crumbles to the ground.
Lt. Morder and Alexus struggle and Duke Gundar circles his fallen prey like a vulture. He licks his lips in anticipation and raises the blade of his own tighmaevril blade. He HE will use Blood Theft on Raoul! Now HE will forever sever the bond Raoul held with the land of Gundarak and its people. Duke Gundar screams out “die Drehzehl is DEAD!”
But JUST as he raises his sword up to strike the killing blow – Destanial lunges forward from his crouching position and plunges the blood rose stake into the dark heart of the Duke!
The Duke gasps in shock and horror – his blade slipping from his fingers and clattering to the blood-soaked stone floor. His body falls like a tree being chopped.
……
Perched like a crow on the chest of Duke Gundar, Destanial holds the stake firmly in place. Both the Duke and Destanial grimace with the struggle, but the stake suffiently weakens the Darklord – enough for Destanial to keep him in place. His eyes are locked on the beady pupils of Duke Gundar.
Gundar could only watch helplessly as Raoul struggled to his feet – arm dangling like a wet noodle.
With the last bit of strength he can muster, Raoul raises his tighmaevril blade high into the air bellows the cry of the Revolution.
Like an executioners guillotine, the blood silver sword cut clean through the Duke’s neck – severing his head from his body.
He lets out one last bloody hiss before his eyes glaze over forever.
The clouds of smoke and debris within Castle Hunadora mix with the rising Mistz, seemingly seeping through the stone floors themselves.
Duke Gundar is dead. Long live the Revolution…
From Episode #3 - When Black Roses Bloom
The players could now SEE their breath in the throne room – it was that cold. They could also hear the faint sounds of someone gearing up in the background – leather squeaking and armor clinking. Boot laces tightening, swords being sheathed…
……
And just like that, the last of the memory mirrors shattered and the PCs and friends were back on the cold stone floor of the throne room.
They could feel the tension in the air…
Then they heard it.
“WHO DARE DISTURB THE LORD OF NEDREGAARD KEEP!?”
I boomed the line getting both players to jump out of their seats! Another classic Ravenloft moment! All the tension finally built to a ill climax they loved.
Everybody – PC to NPC – froze in horror at the sound of Lord Soth’s voice. Again the voice boomed “who dare disturb the Lord of Nedregaard Keep!?”
Alexus bravely (foolishly?) strode forward brandishing the black rose amulet! He identified himself, his party and their goals. He wanted to give the amulet to Soth in return for safe passage out the realm. Lord Soth laughed!
Finally, the man himself emerged from the shadows to face the Players. I gave them an ill picture of Lord Soth I printed off the internet.
“You would haggle with me as though I am a sellsword as the likes of you?” Instead, he simply ordered them to hand over the amulet and he would make their deaths as painless as possible. Again, you should’ve seen the player’s faces – it’s what a DM strives for!
……
Finally, Soth had enough the bull***t dillydallying and charged Alexus.
But the broken chandelier on the ground spontaneously burst into flames, preventing Lord Soth from reaching him! This gave the PCs and friends just enough time to haul azz out the throne room.
Except for Alexus!
His player explained Alexus’ rationale and it made sense. He said the party is a bunch of girls and little kids, so they need a healthy headstart against the enraged Lord Soth. Alexus is willing to sacrifice himself to distract the Lord’s attention. He wants to see his friends escape to live.
Of course once declaring this, his best friend Destanial announces he’s staying behind too.
……
So Destanial and Alexus stayed behind to buy their party time to escape.
Lord Soth gave a soliloquy on his fighting prowess and battle field knowledge, inexplicitly stating he could crush the players any time he chose. Stating all this, he asked the players one last time if they would prefer to negotiate – as opposed to dueling it out. Of course the overmatched players wanted to talk about it.
Soth said fine.
He summoned forth Azreal into the room with two hostages – former PC Aramil Kraven and Natacha of the Wanderers! Great moment, should’ve seen the players faces.
Azreal is being exceptionally cruel and raunchy, running his tongue along Natacha’s shoulder and neck. He keeps a tight grip around Aramil’s throat, nearly turning the kid blue. NOW Lord Soth asks the players if they are ready to be reasonable…
……
Words cannot adequately describe the roleplaying encounter between Lord Soth, Alexus Darkangon and Destanial Magorian. It was very tense, with the players holding back none of their newfound knowledge while Lord Soth flexed his intimidation skills.
Finally, after much deliberation – the players angrily and reluctantly handed the amulet over to Soth.
That’s when he ordered Azreal to “dispose” of them. The players got real nervous real quick.
Your writing style is horrible, and you come off as such an egotistical, full-of-himself kid. I don't know if you've noticed, but the only people answering, and thus reading, your story here are your two lap dogs. That must mean most people can't stand your style either.
"End Transmission"
......
So, keep it real! I'm sorry that your beef with JWM cost you your account, but I'm glad to see that it doesn't mean there will be a shortage in the MSD-flow. This stuff is like dope. I gotta keep coming back for more!
......
Taking fire -- endlessly -- for telling you people the truth, rather than what you wanted to hear. Being accused of plagiarism. Being accused of being a "rampant" drug fiend. Mad Step Dad -- truly the most repugnant "fan" I've ever encountered -- spitting at my name even as I literally put myself in the hospital from stress and overwork over my concerns about protecting the quality of the Ravenloft line.
......
Your post has been reported to the proper administration.
You may feel that way, but we have a right not to sit back and listen to your flames.
......
The only verbal "masacre" to take place here had the English language as its victim.
And you were an accomplice.
......
My sincerest apologies, for only letting MSD rag on us for a mere two solid months before commenting on it.
......
For some reason, you seem "to think you're on a righteous mission, or that you have something important to say, when really you're just too immature, obnoxious, and classless to behave yourself."
And yes, I'm talking about you.
You're not welcome back. Come back under a different name, and you'll get the same response, but without the courtesy of a send-off message.
Alexus Darkagnon wrote- I think MSD is the most ELECTRFYING DM in the solarsystem. After last weeks adventure, there can’t be anybody better. Last weeks adventure had everything. There was EXCITEMENT in every scene. From ALEXUS and DESTANIAL finding out die Drehzehl did exist, to a DRUG HEIST on the dirt roads of Zeidenburg!
WHEN ME AND MY BOYZ TALK ABOUT RAVENLOFT, WE ALWAYS END THE CONVERSATION WITH ONE SENTENSE;
RAVENLOFT IS SICK!
This is just like you...
Always leaving us dangling in suspence.
And when you do come back to finish, we've already plummetted to our deaths in the ravine below.
I finally had the chance to catch up with your tale. And as always I am left hanging on for more.
Can't wait for the story to continue. MSD you are an artist of the Mist.
I'm also drawn into the Mists everytime MSD spins his stories!
Keep the good stuff coming MSD
Enough with the praise, just get on with the story already!
For your style of presenting your stories: I HATE you!
Damn dude!
Great stuff!
Jeeze, man! This stuff is sending chills down my spine! Keep it coming!
Same here. And I can't believe you managed to get them to head out to a cemetary on a full moon with a vampire. Even if this wasn't Ravenloft I would be afraid :-)
Keep it coming MSD you are Madd.
Awesome man. Truly chilling.
Keep it coming dude, never can get enough of your stories.
I've been watching your campaign since you moved it. Just wanted to say (now that I have a reason to have an account here) that I love your game. You have quite a story going on here.
I too have been closely following your campaign ever since it started way back when in Barovia. I check the posts daily for updates. Can't wait to see what your players get into. Keep up the awesome work.
Greetings to the MSD & crew. Boy howdy, this is a great story. Keep it coming!
I just finished reading the end of this installment. You are amazing your ability to use the characters weaknesses against them without truly destroying them. You let them do that to themselves
Truly inspiring MSD. Can't wait for my next fix.
I hope to read more soon!
Nice work, can't wait to hear the rest of the story...
Beautiful, MSD! Just beautiful!
Keep 'em coming!!
Excellent work MSD, keep it coming.
*shudders* Very tasty detail!
So nice story MSD, keep it coming.
It's all great!
Looks like you’re nicely moving all the pieces into place to involve the PCs in one of the biggest plots in Ravenloft history. If all goes to plan you’ll have an adventure that’ll be talked about for years…
Just wanted to thank you MSD I ran a modified and not quite lengthy version of the Strange Story, but my PCs loved it!
Excellent stuff MSD and kudos to the new players, they seem to be really fitting in well with your style.
You can't leave us here in the dust.
Finish the story!
Lead on, MSD!
Keep up the posts, I for one read them avidly.
Why are you stopping?
KEEP GOING!!!
Eyey! The Stepdad returns. I've missed your tales!
Personally, I love that novelized style. Keep dragging the story out, I says!
I'll see what tips I can gleam from the great bard MSD!
Keep up the good work dude
Damn. It's been so long, I forgot how much I love this ****!
Anyways, good to see an update MSD, it's been far too long.
Hey MSD I just read about your campaign I like it, I like it Indeed.
I like how you work your campaign because your players cant expect to fight Duke Gundar. They’re gonna have to use their wits and Role-playing to prevail. Keep me updated.
I’ve read all your campaign posts, and I love them. They are really well written, and extremely fit the ravenloft theme (at least in my opinion).
Keep up the great work!
I swear, those last three posts imay not be the scariest **** I've read in a while, but it's certainly the most ominous. I'm feeling the tension here.
I'm afraid to start sounding like a giddy little fanboy, but reading about your campaign makes me all jealous.
Maybe ya should write a little Campaign Building guide someday?
WOW…you now have me hooked on your adventures in ravenloft. Ig ot done reading your posts and was looking for more.
I hipe your seession goes well tonight because I am eager to read what happens next.
Keep it up, yoou’re doing the a great community service.
Just please, don’t stop posting!
I am impressed with the detail and creativity!
Outstanding. I am captivated by your story.
I’m totally intrigued by your style of playing RL.
I’ve got more ideas from this now…
Once again thumbs up for creativity.
Peace! Carry on!
I hate you MSD for watering my mouth and then stopping like that...
Wow. I must say, MSD, that I am completely and utterly impressed. A wonderful story, and you (if I may stoop to flattery) are a wonderful storyteller
Very creative; you are a gifted author. The setting seems very alive, but you must also have very good players to be able to run that kind of serious game. I envy you.
You always leave me wanting more.
You need to write it all in a book and allow me to buy the first copy. You are truly inspiring in your portrayal of the characters and domains. YOU make it REAL!!
This is a very good story. You have obviously put a lot of thought into your planning because their is a lot of depth to the story. You must be a very good DM. If i lived anywhere near you i would gladly join one of your future campigns
Keep it up MSD!!!
Sorry i haven't posted for a while - I've been away.
Top story MSD, really liked the mafioso feel of Dorvinia. The fact that Alexus' women is in the same place that TWO Bosses want his head is brilliant.
Looking forward to the future installments and to see how all four PCs work together.
Keep em coming dude
Well let's say it straight out:
Verrrrry nice!!!!
I'm hoping the next installments will be made quicker than the last... ...I'm hungry for more...
Bravo, another tales has begun. I am sure it will be as exciting if not more so then the previous ones.
Very well written!
MSD roll on!
MSD you ARE the ILLEST!!!
It keeps getting more and more intense MSD
What an incredible story!
What can I say but truly inspring, I want to play in your campaign someday.
When’s the next update? – I need more!
Your story is worth waiting for but I am oh so impatient
I am all a’tingle with excitement
~~~
This is the full list of awards and nominees. Voting was exclusive to the What Would U Do Crew - with the exception of the "People's Choice" award - which was a poll open to the entire internet. Without further ado, I present the What Would U Do Crew 2004 Award nominees...
Best Character Duo
Alexus Darkangnon & Destanial Magorian
Destanial Magorian & Domingo dos Santos
Alexus Darkangnon & Phinean Windrider
Coolest Character
Tenrou Lee
Destanial Magorian
Alexus Darkangnon
Darius of Sithicus
Rookie of the Year
Alena Nurpašhi
Darius of Sithicus
Best Character Background
Destanial Magorian
Alena Nurpašhi
Vincent Burace
Alexus Darkangnon
Most Valuable Player
Tenrou Lee
Alexus Darkangnon
Destanial Magorian
Vincent Burace
Most Memorable Moment
Death of a Darklord – demise of Duke Gundar
Vincent’s sacrifice (Feast of Goblyns Part II)
Crucifixion of King Darkangnon (Episode #16 - Queens Embrace)
The death of Darius of Sithicus (Rite of Terror)
The Q-Monstah’s return (Unfingered Hand)
Alexus’ cedar chest revelation.
The banishment of official group D.I.C.K, Cemetery Home Outkast (Unfingered Hand).
Alena Nurpašhi gets mind-raped (Rite of Terror).
Alexus VS. Dr. Dominiani (FoG Part II)
Negotiating with Lord Soth (WBRB)
The death of Solyss Zadaraq (Love’s Bitter Sting)
Alexus Darkangnon VS. Edward Matthews – the duel (AwtLMT?)
-- Insert People's Choice award --
Best Role-Player
Tenrou's player
Alexus Darkangnon's player
Destanial's player
Darius of Sithicus' player
Originally posted by Zar Niln
I must agree with my fellow, loyal MadStepDad Disciple Lord of Illusions. If I'm ever in your neck of the woods, I am so gonna crash one of your games, MSD.
Ha! I take that as a compliment duke.
The man(MSD) has got talent when it comes to RL and since like I said I cut my DMing teeth on the RL 2E red boxed set I am happy to see him not let RL fall to the wayside along with SpellJammer, Al Qadim, etc. This kat has got ME using the Ghostsight feat in my Dragonlance campaign!
~~~
A collection of jewels condensed from the mighty MSD collection
Contained within the first few posts ever written, comes the description of a typical What Would U Do Crew-style Game. The vision of a beginners intro to Ravenloft begins here…
From Episode #1 - The River Ivlis Bandit
The story begins in the year 735 in Vallaki, Barovia. My group consists of four characters (3 PCs – 1 NPC). The players are classless at this point – just a smattering of skill points and a feat or two. I decided we would begin play with teenage PCs because I feel this gives them most room for character growth and development. My games place an emphasis on role-playing over roll playing, and they wind up taking on a cinematic feel that way.
Nothing in this adventure screamed “supernatural” or “gothic horror”. I planned a simple, generic adventure to introduce the players into our new world. I have yet to even HINT at the darkness underlying their existence.
* Good idea on your part to not use supernatural creatures or things. It helps build the way to when they’ll face their first supernatural foe.
* I agree. Great idea! Unfortunately the people I know know the ins and outs of Ravenloft, so something like that isn’t possible.
* Keep us updated, as I’m very interested in seeing their reactions.
Episode #1 - River Ivlis Bandit
The PCs are far from innocent. The early stages of my campaign detail the dark side of mankind and the underbelly of society. I don’t need werewolves or zombies to scare them. The actions of their fellow peers – some who have succumbed to greed lust, and indulgence – are a far more powerful threat.
Of course, as native Barovians they have been born with an innate fear of the nighttime. But in my version of Ravenloft, it has LESS to do with ravenous vampires and MORE to do with the packs of wolves that frequent the countryside. Of course they’ve all heard tales of that devil Strahd, but most of their fears are of the superstitious type. Suffice to say they’ve never actually witnessed a body rise from the dead…
* Sounds like you have a good start to the campaign MSD, keep the updates coming.
* To have a totally virgin party! Must be great… Make sure to let us know how things develop…
The Q-Monstah's first and only post!
I must say that I am happy with what you have done. It makes me happy to see The D.M. that got me started with D&D still having so much fun. Though I was wondering when you were going to try to come here to Germany, so you could add yet another level, to an already excellent campaign…
"Oh the naivety!
:D
From Episode #4 – Death of a Darklord
IMPORTANT NOTE – Remember, none of the PCs (or players for that matter) know Duke Gundar is a vampire.
From Episode #3 – When Black Roses Bloom
They all heard the tales before – Lord Soth left his wife and son to burn to death in the fire. But this memory mirror showed Soth SAVING them! Needless to say, the players were confused.
Destanial thought the old tales were wrong, and Lord Soth truly was a hero.
Alexus had paranoid thoughts of Magda working WITH Soth.
From Episode #8 – The Unfingered Hand
They hafta travel to a Cemetery.
In Ravenloft.
On the night of a full moon.
With an evil magical item, and a vampire as a companion.
Mwhah-ha-ha-ha-ha!
From Episode #6 - And Wilt Thou Leave Me Thus?
Destanial makes his way onto the steamboat with as pleasant a façade as he can conjure. Harold Membrose introduces Count Magorian to his “business associate”. His name is Nathan Timothy. The gruff sailor hesitates a moment before clasping Destanial’s hand in a very firm shake. Destanial can see a slight sneer from beneath Nathan’s bushy black beard.
DM Note – D’s player has NO IDEA of the significance in this encounter!
What Would U Do when your party wants to separate on you? MSD illustrates his technique with split-party gaming.
From Episode #2 – Love’s Bitter Sting
Next up: my Ravenloft virgins. Y’all love them! How do I get them to sit through a one-character solo trek? A buncha ways.
For the most part, my Games play out cinematically – so it’s really easy to visualize. The one character treks are very rarely “boring” and they usually don’t last that long anyways. Plus all the players take an interest in everybody else’s character. For the LONG solo missions, I incorporate the other players into it. They can play anything from the guy at the stables trying to sell the PC a horse – to the renegade soldier who seeks the PC out for advice. This gives them a chance to flex those dreaded “role-playing” skills. Plus it’s madd fun to watch!
From Episode #5 – The Beast of Solyss
I was reading a post on these boards about the same thing. It focused on group unity and party separation – how do you orchestrate it and when is it enough?
Some people have varying theories on the subject, and the effect it has on a players’ psyche.
Some DMs have players that are terrified to split from the party – and the DMs wear their players fears as a badge of honor. Other speak of the same problem, but seek a solution.
Myself – I’ve never had a problem with players striking out on their own if the story calls for it. There are no surprises or sneak attacks as soon as one PC steps out of the picture for a **** break. It’s only natural that the characters not spend every waking moment attached to each other’s hips.
Till Death do us Part – and everything in between. Dealing with character growth in a long term campaign.
From Episode #8 – The Unfingered Hand
Another DM Note (I’m blazed now, so bear with me as I ramble some more): This is another long-term goal of my campaign: Make The Ongoing Story More Important Than The Sum Of It’s Parts. Meaning, the STORY is bigger than any individual character. I encourage the players to explore Ravenloft further by experimenting with different characters and concepts. If a players seeks or chooses to retire their character in favor of a new one, I’m all for it (as long as it fits the storyline, of course). For example: waaaaay back in the day when I ran When Black Roses Bloom (before the players slayed Duke Gundar and before they become Counts and Lord) the players were still low-level young commoners. During the course of the adventure, they met up with Magda and her Wanderers, which included an NPC of my own creation named Jalise, neice to Magda (I only did that cuz I wanted a love interest for Destanial, and Magda was too old). As I planned, he was smitten by Jalise (not the feat) and their love grew stronger as the adventure unfolded. At its conclusion, it would have been PERFECTLY ACCEPTABLE for Destanial to announce he was staying behind in Sithicus to help the Wanderers rebuild. Instead, he chose to temporarily break off his relationship with Jalise in favor of a higher sense of purpose: the defeat of Duke Gundar, Darklord of Gundarak. Another example: during the MSD-Exclusive adventure This Thing Of Ours. Lord Alexus Darkangnon met the Dilisnyan mob mistress Bellizza. He could have just as easily stayed behind and fought the war alongside her, but he too felt a stronger sense of duty and moved on. This whole scene right now is another example: the clerics of the Overseer are looking to recruit the young, naïve and scared Misha tha Lost into their ranks, cuz they know she’s moldable like a piece of putty. If Misha’s player chose to accept their offer, her character would live on as an NPC in the Temple, and she’s free to create another character concept. Ya dig? I just think it gives the world a bigger, better feel. Enough selling, on with the telling…
Add more style to your everyday Dming.
From Episode #8 – The Unfingered Hand
The recipe for success calls for copious amounts of fluffy flavor text. And if you want my advice (who doesn’t?) try to memorize the text, or at least have a decent freestyle in ya. Cuz it kinda takes away from the moment when the DM is reading from a book verbatim. This doesn’t apply ALL the time, just some of the time. Especially when you’re trying to build tension or lead to a climatic encounter.
So there I am, standing on my throne waving my arms around like a maniac, trying to conjure the proper kind of mood for this send-off. I got the ill 6th Sense joint riding in the background, the candles are flickering in the breeze and my four players are following along with rapt attention.
Fate VS. Coincidence – MSDs eternal struggle.
Is it the fluidity of the campaign that allows any product to mesh?
Or does any D&D product simply fit into any D&D campaign?
From Episode #10 – Corrupted Innocents
DM Note: I think it's a testament to our tightly woven storylines that almost every piece of written Ravenloft literature to coincide with our campaign happenings. Many before have stated that these Book Of Crypts adventures can't be inserted into ongoing Ravenloft campaigns without serious renovations, but for the most part I have ran these adventures untinkered. I may add another layer or two of storyline, but I never change the main premise. Corrupted Innocents, as stated, was run pretty much as is.
That's why I kinda had to chuckle to myself when I read Madame Nygar's "dark scryings" for the first time.
"One among you thinks to do the right thing, but does evil..." sounds like it could be a reference to Destanial, for every one of his noble and honorable goals seems to degenerate into twisted parody. Revealing the existence of die Drehzahl to the Tribe of Hyksosa, submitting to the clutches of Nostalia Romaine and the Count's dealings with the Green Eye warriors all turned out much worse than he ever anticipated. "One among you, though good once and kind, had been turned to great evil by this land..." could be directed towards Alexus. Although I don't know how "good and kind" he once was, he most certainly has been "turned to great evil by this land". Obviously, both Alena and Alexus have been deceived.
MSD loves the old TSR web
From Episode #3 – When Black Roses Bloom
I’m definitely taking my time revealing the sublte Dragonlance ties. That’s another thing I find so beautiful about Ravenloft – the “real-world” settings that got absorbed into the mix. This allows me to run through and explore ALL the old boxed sets I got. All under the pretense of “unraveling Ravenloft!”
Once again preaching the importance of dice in RPGing
From Episode #12 – The Rite of Terror
Now I’ll be the first to admit it – I can be a softie sometimes when it comes to Dming. I have a soft spot in my heart for fully developed characters that I’m just really FEELING. And sometimes MAYBE there MIGHT be a little bias when it comes to the PCs. Nothing blatant or obvious – you’d probably never be able to even tell. But I’m not out on a mission to mess with the players or teach them a lesson. But tonight… I may just have to reconsider.
See, Ravenloft is a scary-azz place! Probably the scariest of ALL the old-school TSR worlds. I’ve succeeded in creating and fostering this genuinely frightening gaming environment for my players to enjoy. The players have indeed been in some very tight situations before, but they’ve alwayz managed to evade the hangman’s noose. With the exception of their old friend Solyss (the actual PC – not the village), they haven’t lost anybody close to them.
What am I trying to say? Well folks, let me just put it this way – when people say you shouldn’t mosey around after dark in Ravenloft – you should probably sit down, shut up and listen. Cuz eventually, even the most generous DM will be forced to let the dice roll where they may…
For example – Visual Aids and Props
From Episode #7 – This Thing of Ours
As far as scenery goes, I have a “Nature’s Beauty” calendar that works WONDERS as a visual prop. There is one picture in there that I SWEAR was taken straight from Borca itself. It’s a beautiful field of large (and strange looking) purple-tinged flowers. In the background, you can see the clear blue sky as well as the Balinok mountain range (I think it’s the Balinok: I don’t have the map with me right now). I used this picture to introduce them to Borca, as they gaze longingly out their carriage window. Quite breathtaking if I do say so myself.
From Episode #3 – When Black Roses Bloom
A few minor changes in gaming scenery really helped accentuate the mood. I alwayz use the two candles-and-a-breeze trick, so that’s nothing new. For this session I dropped the Ravenloft DM screen (from the Red Box, son!) and used the Dragonlance screen from the DL boxed set. Beautiful, beautiful screen – including a picture of Lord Soth himself!
Also, HIGHLY recommended reading – Dragonlance Warriors Volume VI – Lord Soth. A novel meticioulsy detailing the rise and fall of Lord Loren Soth. The story begins with the murder of Lord Soth’s half brother and sister before ending the with the great fire tat sweeps Dargaard Keep.
How to you get your players to actually ROLEPLAY? MSD offers advice
From Episode #4 – Death of a Darklord
As a roleplaying exercise, to get everybody into the swing of things – I asked each of the players to revisit how their characters began this journey. What was their ORIGINAL motivation? What drew them into a life of adventuring to begin with? How did the events of Episode #2 – Love’s Bitter Sting change the characters? How are the characters different from when they first entered Sithicus? Did the events of Episode #3 – When Black Roses Bloom change them? What are their goals and motivations NOW? What inspires them? That kind of thing. It helped ease us back into the game after a two session hiatus.
From Episode #7 – This Thing of Ours
I opened this weeks session with a brief role-playing exercise I call “Three Questions”. It’s designed to get the players into their characters heads. You know that oft-used theatrical expression “what’s my motivation?” Well this is the answer.
Ravenloft is putty in my hands – MSD offers his vision.
Episode #6 - And Wilt Thou Leave Me Thus?
DM Note- my own version of the Core is similar to US. Meaning each domain represents a state, not a country. The whole core speaks common (like English) but each domain has it’s own regional accent. Well, it’s not that cut-and-dry but you get the picture. That’s just how I’M doing it…
Spread the Disease – your duty as an RPG fan and consumer
Episode #8 – The Unfingered Hand
As far as our female player goes, consider her hooked. We inserted the needle in her vein and she is officially one of us now. It is a reoccurring theme of mine as DM to get new players completely strung-out, and homegirl was no exception. She couldn’t believe what she had been missing and was kicking herself for not getting into the Game sooner. Matter of fact, soon thereafter she went out and copped a bunch of 3E books and dice and stuff, so I’m ecstatic I can introduce somebody to the Game who will actually support it. She even runs her own Farscape d20 game with her own group of D&D newbies.
SEE GUYS!? THIS IS YOUR DUTY AS D&D PLAYERS!!! SPREAD THE LOVE!!!
Middle Finger U.
From Episode #9 – The Cedar Chest
Most of the Book of Crypts pieces... are only okay as one-shots and remarkably ill-suited to putting into ongoing
EXACTLY. And that's EXACTLY why I chose to incorporate them into my Game. To prove that it CAN be done. I remember reading most of the reviews on BoC and they weren't too flattering. But this should be proof positive anything is possible (especially in Ravenloft).
From Episode #7 – This Thing of Ours
DM Note:
Remember one VERY important fact: this is MY game.
I run it however the hell I wanna run it.
There.
With that being said, I’d like to introduce you to MY version of Dorvinia.
A little bit of canon with the ill MSD-twist. Read on…
OK, another quick aside. As many of you know (you all SHOULD know) that we represent Broken City, Massachusetts State to the death. There’s nothing too special or glamorous about Broken City. It’s just Any Ghetto, USA. And we’re not too far away from Bean Town, Boston itself (we’re south of the city). If you’ve never been to Boston, you missing out, kid. But my whole point is this: I based Dorvinia on Little Italy!
I gave it an Italian flavor with some Italian dressing, and bread sticks on the side.
I made Dorvinia into the Godfather domain!
I don’t care WHAT y’all say, that’s how I run thangs ‘round hea. So check it:
* Man, you rock! Your version of Ravenloft kicks so much arse, bringing (un)life to otherwise forgotten and boring domains.
* Real nice your version of Dorvinia!
I really like your style... it's very... ...EVIL!
* Very flashy... I admit I never would've thought of handling these lands this way
* Mafia in Ravenloft? I'd never have interpreted Dorvinia that way but it works and it does inspire a different kind of fear than normal.
Converting Dorvinia into a Godfather-flavored domain actually went over pretty well. AND it coincided with the Godfather trilogy being shown on TV at the time. So now, as I read mentions of Ivan or Dorvinia in the Ravenloft products, they make even MORE sense after taking my changes into consideration.
Ravenloft – The Patchwork Collection
Episode #3 – When Black Roses Bloom
I really wanted to stress the othworldliness of the domain, and it’s foreign history. This will hopefully slowly lead the PCs to the revelation that Ravenloft draws its inhabitants from beyond the misty confines. Again, I play with Ravenloft virgins – neither the players OR the characters know much about “domains”, “darklords” or “outlanders”. This should be a great opportunity to wow the players when the time is right.
Stuck in a time warp – Old school for a reason or rebellion?
On another tangent, I KNOW some of y’all are wondering why MSD is stuck in the past. WHY the hell is he running a grand conjunction campaign in 736? Close to TWENTY YEARS from the current day timeline.
Well I know, and YOU know the secrets and history of Ravenloft. But my players do NOT. For all intents and purposes they are complete virgins to the genre. And seeing as how I have EVERY DAMN 2E Ravenloft supplement EVER made, it would just be such a waste if I didn’t use them. Ya feel me?
I didn’t want to drop the players in the middle of the story and say “all this stuff happened before you”. I want to actually SHOW them the stuff that happened before.
The Grand Conjunction.
The Grim Harvest.
The Death of Rudolph van Richten.
The list goes on and on!
These are seminal events that I want the players to FEEL. I don’t want to just throw a book in front of them and say “this is written by a deceased monster hunter named Rudolph”. If I did that, it would mean NOTHING to them. I want them to KNOW Doctor van Richten. So therefore, I’m starting at the beginning of the official Ravenloft saga (735 by Black Box standards). NOW do ya feel me? Let’s continue…
I tried, I really did – the miniature experiment
From Episode #7 – This Thing Of Ours
This is the part where the boyz and I just cut loose. It was about this time when the Kargatane boards were discussing that new miniatures book coming out, and how miniatures were going to figure big-time into 3E. So I thought we might as well dust off the old miniatures box and see if we could hop onto the bandwagon (or at least update ourselves to full 3E compatibility).
Now, this IS something we’ve tried in the past (years ago) but dropped rather quickly. But with the infinite wisdom gained in our maturation processes, I figured now would be the best time to hit the drawing board again.
Anybody familiar with dem old-skool TSR boxed sets from the early 1980s? The ones with titles like “Top Secret”, “Boot Hill” and “Gangbusters?”
Well, as I said before, I tend to be a Madd Completist so I’ve garnered myself copies of ALL that good stuff. Boxed sets AND all adventure modules. For the record, we HAVE played games of Gangbusters in the past (with my manz Marty M in Plymouth County. Represent, dawg!) and I created a Boot Hill campaign that never really took off. I figured now more than ever would be a great opportunity for me to break out these relics and re-use them in our Ravenloft 2003 campaign.
I mean, they’re embroiled in a Dorvinian gang war, for Morninglord’s sake! What could be more appropriate than a run through the Gangbusters set?
For this sess, I used the huge folding map included in the Gangbusters set for the city of Lechberg. Obviously, minor tweaking was needed to convert eras, but for the most part, it worked wonderfully.
Now we had the various taverns and watering holes. Bootleggers havens and guild houses. City streets and darkened alleyways. Gambling spots and prostitution lots. It’s ALL laid out before the players’ eyes for their maximum gaming convenience.
……
But the ulterior motive of the entire adventure was to simply try out the miniature rules for our 3E campaign. And I can safely say we will NOT be doing it again. It kinda slowed down play and cluttered the table top. It was a lot harder to actually envision the battle too, as the clunky miniatures just sit there like lumps. So, it’s back to strictly Mind Eyez Theatre. Except for the occasional rough pencil sketching. I KNEW there was a reason we didn’t like playing with miniatures. Remember the old Combat & Tactics book? We tried it then too. Still wasn’t fun.
From Episode #8 – The Unfingered Hand (version 2.0)
A healthy "whassup y'all" to the people populating the IC today. My name is the MadStepDad, and I have a tale for you. It takes place in the darkest corners of the Dread Realms, where very few ever escape to see the light of day.
Unfortunately (or is it fortunately?), I am one of the rare few that was "expelled" from the Land of Mists, via my ill subliminals! Anywayz, I hope to see some of my TRUE homies from the old boards here someday. So if you down, holla at ya manz. Peep it:
* Hey MSD,
You know I followed ya here. I really need to know what happened to ya. I musta missed all the fun. Hope to catch ya on aim so you can tell me the tale that got ya expelled.
* Yo my man, here I am, also listening to your ramble (this time on the wizards' board)!
Keep on...
* Okay dude, I've registered on the wizards board just for you.
Do you feel the love.........
* Glad to see you found another place to continue the story
From Episode #10 – Corrupted Innocents
On a side note, I specifically remember Alexus and I getting lifted after the sess and watching the local news. Them trees were pretty sweet and I SWEAR TO GOD I thought I was watching an episode of Saturday Night Live, or something. The news came off like a straight parody, but it was all real! I remember this night, cuz at the SAME time Alexus was licking a shot in the game, just down the street a convenient store clerk was being shot and killed. When we watched the news update, they said the police were "looking for a black male with baggy clothes". Now that just sums it up, doesn't it?
January 29, 2004
Hey y'all! It's the return of your favorite gaming crew, fresh from celebrating the big 2-4 yesterday. Madd, madd love to everybody that sent their well-wishes. I really appreciated it.
Alexus’ player shouts out an old-school MSD Player Character
Sorry, MSD but I had to do it. Alexus is not just some cold blooded killer, he has Principles. Although I will admit that sometimes the principles go against some other peoples principles like for instance the principles of Godfried Goldbane.(Yes MSD I put his name out there)
peace y'all
p.s. if anyone would like to know who the infamous, and world renowned evil slayer(lol) Godfried Goldbane is I'm preety sure MSD could tell you
Episode #6 - And Wilt Thou Leave Me Thus?
First things first a healthy shout-out to my boy Q, all the way across the planet in Germany. I know you reading, dawg – holla!
And of course a very special shout-out to the homeboy Butch McKenzie (government name withheld) doing time in Plymouth County. I’m about to send you the latest update son! Keep ya head up, we keeping your spot open at the Table. One love!
From Episode #7 – This Thing of Ours
MSD foreshadows the real-world wars in Broken City over the summer months... in July 2004 there have already been a spree of murders
Monday, June 3rd 736
The weather is getting warmer, which can only mean one thing: Heat.
Heat in the air, Heat in the hand and Heat on the street. And from where I sit (behind the DM Screen), the Summer of 736 could be the hottest of them all…
Thursday January 9, 2003
I wanna say thanks to everybody who left feedback. The posts haven’t been updated recently, cuz we play on Wed nights. And last Wed was New Years day – the week before Christmas. So we’ve been on a two-week holiday hiatus. But we started fresh again last night, and we’re ready to steam ahead into 2003.
Alexus' player gives his DM props
i also i want to give my dm MSD a shout out due to the last adventure. that shi* "was off the meters." (it was everything you could exspect from a Ravenloft adventure, and more)
sorry for braggin' about adventures you guys and Ladies probably won't be able to read for months, but i have to give respect, where respect is due.
and i promise to get MSD to catch up on the posts.(lets see how fast you can type MSD with a gun to the back of your head. )
just kiddin' homie.(i really ain't though)
BONUS ADVENTURE – New England Blizzard Style
Hey hey y’all! Word round the way is we beat the Blizzard of ’78 by 4 tenths of an inch. I cannot confirm nor deny these rumors, so take them as you will.
But yes INDEED I got the day off yesterday on account of the snow (2-18-03) and we left the day BEFORE at noon time! So I was parlayin with Alexus on the day of my early dismissal – one thing led to another – and what do ya know? We back at the gaming table for a bonus session…
From Episode #8 – The Unfingered Hand
Now, to understand the full ramifications of this scenario, you need to know a bit about Alexus. All my friends from the old posts will know the deal, but for you new cats, I summarize:
Alexus is all about The Rush. Whether it’s generated through adrenaline, violence, sex or even the drugs he abuses, Alexus lives for that next high. That’s what he’s constantly searching for in life.
And the rush he felt as he lit the candle was one of the sharpest, most intense highs of his life (second only to the killing stroke of his Black Razor sword). He could look around, and see the seconds tick by. He could feel the energy surging through his body. He felt as if he could march right over to the window and snatch a raindrop out the sky. The other’s watched him closely, but they appeared to be moving at half speed (like they’re stuck in molasses, or something). Life around him moved along in slow motion, but he still had his quickness of wit and speed of body. It was like living in a dream, but he quickly accepted it as reality. The other characters had no idea why Alexus was beaming from ear to ear with that trademark devilish smirk.
His lifelong traveling companion Count Destanial Magorian interjected (remember, I’m playing him as an NPC for now). He could sense the candle was playing a number on Alexus, and he demanded it be extinguished. Alexus just laughed him off, so Destanial moved to snuff the candle out. And guess what? It didn’t go out.
He tried snuffing it with his fingers, then with a bowl. Then he tried to wet the wick. All to no avail (by this time, Professor Ellis Valdemear is going “See! See! I told you! I told you it was bad!”)
But Alexus just rolled his eyes (I slipped him a note, as the methods of the candle now came natural to him). As the others watched him, Alexus approached the table where the Unfingered Hand rested. He procured his sharpened dagger from its sheath, and proceeded to draw a thin line across his fingertip.
The others players gasped in mock revulsion as a drop of Alexus’ tainted blood dangled precariously from his finger (he has the “Unwholesome Ichor” feat, a by-product of his drug addictions). As the blood drop hit the wick, there was a sizzle and a pop. The flame was successfully extinguished.
DM Note: At this time, I asked to see Alexus’ character sheet. I took his sheet behind my screen, and everybody watched as I did some revision work. All I did was add a year to his current age, but it was MADD hilarious watching the other players analyze the sheet, looking for changes.
You see, the Unfingered Hand works like a Haste spell (only souped up considerably). The drawback is, for x-amount of time spent with the candle burning, x-amount of years are added to your life (the exact figures escape me at this point). So it took a little while for Alexus to find what I changed on his sheet, and when he did he didn’t even really care (which is GOOD cuz he’s underestimating the curse of the Hand). But of course, the other players still have no idea and they were eyeing Alexus suspiciously
* That was bloody awesome. I'd like to give you all the credit for such a great story, but the player of Alexus does a damn fine job of weaving it with you.
……
Time and time again, he vows to NEVER be a pawn in the Game, only to find himself playing that role at the adventure’s conclusion. When will he learn that Evil is never truly rewarded? He should have known better to accept the bargain with Q, even with the promise of immortality on the line. Oh well, better luck next time, pal. And for your information, he WAS forced to roll a Dark Powerz check at the conclusion of the adventure (for betraying and backstabbing his “ally” Professor Valdemear).
The Evolution of his Ghostsight
DMs Note – When Cemetery Home Outkast left the Game for the first time, he left behind his sorcerer PC Aramil Kraven. In his absence, his character sheet was dissected and the other players got the crunchy breakdown on his character’s in-game exploits. One of the new feats that jumped out at Alexus was “ghostsight”. Now he wanted it. So as DM, how could I go about incorporating a new ability of such magnitude? Like this…
Episode #4 – Death of a Darklord
DM Note – Another clever bit of foreshadowing – I made it a point to express to Destanial’s player the strange feelings of loss and isolation that washed over him when they passed by the old Orchard.
Van Richten shivered and exclaimed “there’s a lot of history there…”
……
DM Note – Another clever bit of foreshadowing – I made it a point to express to Alexus' player the strange feelings of loss and isolation that washed over him when they passed by the old Orchard.
Allein Verstoben shivered and exclaimed “there’s a lot of history there…”
……
A group of robbers led by Allein Verstoben (and including Alexus Darkangnon) make their move on one of Duke Gundar’s Agony convoys.
Allein Verstoben kept the main tied up as long as he could – all the while shouting for Alexus to get the goods. Finally, rummaging through the one of the crates – Alexus found what he was looking for.
A small wooden box with a lock. Staring at in awe and nervous anticipation, Alexus totally missed the club heading for his head. Until it was too late.
He could feel himself falling through the air and landing in a heap on the cold hard ground. Everything was really hazy, but he couldn’t tell if it was his head or the fog that continues to swell around him.
He blindly stumbled through the fog, listening for the sounds of his companions. But he heard nothing. He called out for Natacha, but the Mistz muffled his words. He continued to wander aimlessly until he passed by that same Orchard from earlier. He took a seat on the grassy knoll, and looked at the box of narcotics in his lap. It was silently calling his name.
He failed his willpower check, so he had to break into the drugs early.
It wasn’t long before the wind blowing through the Orchards transformed intoa a symphony of moans. He began to catch glimpses of shapes and colors out of the corner of his eye. Figures darted to and fro through the fog. He could a child crying, and the sounds of angry chanting.
When the drug began to overtake his body, he already knew he had too much. Everything was swirling around him, and cries of torment rose from the soil. Alexus tried to walk but lost his balance and crumbled to the ground. He was becoming increasingly nauseous and nervous (like a very bad acid trip).
A CRACK of lightning briefly illuminated the fields around him, and he saw dozens of dead men hanging from nooses!
The bodies were everywhere! Swinging from the dead tree branches and reaching out towards him! Alexus SCREAMED and crawled into a shivering fetal position. THE DEAD WERE ALL AROUND HIM!
DM Note- You may recall from the previous post that Alexus wanted the Ghostsight feat from RL3 (after Cemetery Home Outkast left the Game – his PC Aramil was the first with the feat). Alexus had requested that when the effects of the Ghostsight become apparent, that his own eyes turn a bloodshot red. Of course the best way to meld the two is through drug intoxication! Now Alexus will alwayz have that uncertainty. Whether the visions he saw were real and true – or just drug induced hallucinations…
From Episode #8 – The Unfingered Hand
They stayed briefly in the Dwarven village of Corvia, where they sent word of their arrival to Aramil Kraven in Il Aluk. Alexus spent much time in deep contemplation, pondering the meaning of his ghostsight. It is an intoxicating, overwhelming rush of sights and sounds that assault his senses. It is brought about suddenly, and seemingly without reason. Yet he knows it all began with a near-death overdose. Could they be hallucinations? Hideous, nightmarish hallucinations, yet they seem so vivid and real? Alexus hesitates to admit it could all be in his mind. The thought makes him shudder.
Episode #6 – And Wilt Thou Leave Me Thus?
While Destanial curls up in his bedroll, Alexus has a smoke and enjoys the serenity of their surroundings. Gazing out onto the lake, he sees what appears to be a ghostly female form taking shape in the center – like the water is solid ground. As Destanial snores lightly in the background, Alexus is compelled to visit the lady on the pond…
Luckily, Destanial is awoken by the splashing sounds and shoots up to see Alexus wading into the pond (fully-clothed). He tries to holla at Alexus, but he appears to be off in another one of his drug-induced trances. Destanial rolls his eyes and begins stripping off his clothes. But suddenly, Alexus DIPS beneath the water and disappears (like the swimmers in JAWS). In a flash Destanial is diving into the pond after his homeboy…
......
After Alexus reaches the deserted Joson estates...
Gazing longingly towards the house that sits on the hill, Alexus hears a low whisper carried in on the breeze… (Race? ****? Rafe?) When he sees a light suddenly flicker on in the attick area, Alexus is compelled to travel towards it – a moth to the flame.
He travels up the long cobblestone walkway that is overrun with grass and waeeds. The whole yard is eerily desolate, as if the occupants left the premises in a hurry. Dead red roses float ina fountain (center of the yard). A porch swing creaks lazily in the breeze. From his vantage point in the front yard, Alexus can look down upon that pond. That still pond that haunts his dreams.
He briefly contemplates entering the deserted house, but instead makes his way back to the pond. There is something odd, yet vaguely familiar about it. Alexus goes all the way to the edge of the pond, until the water laps at the toes of his riding boots. A thin layer of mist rists on the waters surface, barely obscuring the reflection of the moon.
SUDDENLY
A voice cuts through the air like a knife.
“RAFE!” she screams.
Just as quickly, something reaches out of the water and eagerly clutches at Alexus’ legs! Before Alexus can even gasp in horror, he loses his balance and collapses back first onto the ground. Cold, bloated hands are dragging him into the murky depths of the pond!
The Effects of Agony
From Episode #7 – This Thing of Ours
Lord Alexus Darkagnon (he of the 18 charisma PLUS intoxicated by Silent Screams) is completely in his element.
DM Note- For those unaware, the secondary effect of an Agony dosage (Silent Screams is a weaker version of Agony) adds 1d4 points to your Charisma score! Silent Screams adds only a 1d2 bonus, but still. ANY bonus to an already 18 score is pretty damn good. Fantasy-land Agony simply duplicates the effects of Real-world Ecstasy.
Alexus & The Black Razor
Episode #7 – This Thing of Ours
Another storyline thread to keep your eye on: the battle of wills between Lord Darkangnon and the Black Razor sword. Slowly but surely, the Razor is worming its way into his mind, corrupting it with thoughts of murder and mayhem. All to satisfy the RUSH you know he craves so much. Whether it’s coming from drugs, sex or his lust for violence, one way or another he must feel the Rush. The Black Razor sword is instrumental in helping him achieve this.
Episode #8 – The Unfingered Hand
Luckily for him he passed, and his slow descent into darkness remains at a standstill. But how long can he count on the luck of the dice? Another important factor to keep your eye on: The Black Razor. When he drove it into the Professors back (at the Q-Monstah’s behest) something within the sword awoke. A dark, nefarious force that will play an integral part in the next chapter. Be on the lookout for the Cedar Chest, hitting up messageboards near you soon!
Episode #6 – And Wilt Thou Leave Me Thus? (in Alexus’ own words)
CONFESSION:
Honestly, it's not me doing these "EVIL" acts.
there is something inside of me that Yearns for blood shed.
Now, i don't tell to many people this, but i feel i can trust you.
I have trained in the dark arts of killing.(2nd level ASSASIN)
and I really can't put my finger on it why i chose to go down that past.
but i will tell you something else, ever since i have had the Black Razor, i needed more Blood shed.
let me put you in on a secret, sometimes, in my sleep i wake up and find myself over dozens of bodies.
at this moment, i was able to paralyze my thirst for blood, but i don't know how longer i can last, without feeling the rush of someones lifeforce course through my veins.
but you know Atma, it's weird, sometimes when i kill i don't know if its the sword, or am i in denial and its really me that craves for the warm crimson splash of life across my face.
sorry if i have taken to much of your time up.
I just needed to get that off my chest.
see ya around,
Lord Alexus Darkangnon
From Episode #7 – This Thing of Ours (as told in his own words)
QUESTION: do any of u gamers know what it is like to
to play a character, who basically has symptoms of a schizophreniac?
because the Black Razor (Lord Alexus' 4th arm ) has its own personality. and because i weild it, (like a tool for brain surgery i should say) i suffer the consequences that happens when Elrich Spellbinder (the name of the very powerful wizard that is trapped in the sword)takes over.
and what does Mr. Spellbinder want?
he wants death.
but i'll tell you something, when it starts to happen and Elrich starts to take over i don't even fight it.
because of the rush i get, when i land that last blow.
that feeling is more addictive then the drugs i consume.
share your thoughts.
i'm off this, PEACE!
From Episode #9 – The Cedar Chest
Lord Darkangnon silently nodded in agreement, all the while hating himself for having to deceive his best friend (Remember, Destanial AND his player have NO idea Alexus was the one behind the attack: that's what happens when you miss two sessions in a row!). But even Alexus couldn't explain the overwhelming rush of anger and greed that surged through him in the cemetery. And he refused to believe the possibility the Black Razor was directing his attack, even though he could feel it guiding his hand as he plunged it into the professors back.
……
Lord Darkagnon has escaped unscathed from the searing eye of the Law. His allies Count Magorian, his bodyguard Domingo and Alena are NONE the wiser. But that nasty little obsession he has with the Black Razor will continue to linger...
Episode #11 – The Strange Story of Darkangnon Estates
The surge Alexus felt was indescribable. A euphoria of conflicting emotions and physical ecstasy. For the one brief moment as the blade slid through that mans body – Alexus felt complete. When he came to, he was on both knees in the middle of the street looming over the dead mans corpse. His body still tingled with excitement, and he watched the blood wash away beneath the pounding rain. He looked down at the Black Razor and knew something was wrong… but he quickly brushed that though away.
It was HE who controlled the Black Razor. The Razor didn’t control him…
Just then—the doors of the manor swing inward, exposing the violent storm beyond. The silhouetted figure of Lord Darkangnon looms in the center. The servant girls jump and gasp. The Lord of Darkangnon Estates enters the foyer and slowly shuts the big double doors behind him. He is drenched from the storm, with a soggy hat lowered over his eyes. The girls can’t tell, but his pupils are the size of quarters.
He saunters past the girls without even a nod of recognition. As he passes them, the Black Razor bobs rhythmically in the scabbard upon his back. Both girls feel a chill race up their spines. Then, Lord Darkangnon pauses before turning back to face the servants.
Not a word is spoken – but in his eyes Gurtchen sees that same “black fire” burning bright. She is aghast and frozen in her tracks. No words escape her lips – only a light gasp. Ismedla says nothing, but can tell by the look on her friend’s face that she’s been spooked. Alexus just chuckles to himself and moves upstairs to confront his wife.
Alexus, on the other hand, didn’t get much rest after returning to bed after breakfast. He tossed and turned and his body curled in pain. He vomited uncontrollably and could feel his insides rotting away. He never felt so sick. There was only one thing that could offer him solace in situations such as this: the Black Razor. Much as it had done the night before (when he murdered that unlucky drunk), the Razor was calling to Alexus with soothing promises of rejuvenation. All that it asked was for the Lord to pick it up and remove it from the sheath. For that, the Lord will be rewarded with respite from his withdrawal.
How I presented this to Alexus was by clearly illustrating the trauma he was suffering, and contrasting it with the pleasures and relief the Razor offered. But I made DAMN SURE he realized the “price” he would pay would be great. If he chose to take the Razor instead of accepting the sins of his own indulgences, there’s no telling what the Razor might take in return – but it sure ain’t nice.
So the Lord mulled it over a bit, with the other players shaking and nodding their heads. They all knew the Razor was bad news, but figured Alexus would accept it. Plus they kinda wanted to see what would happen if he did. After a few moments of contemplation, Alexus’ player smirked and said “f- it, I’mma grab it”.
So he dragged his sick, weak carcass off the bed over to the bedside bureau. His bones were on fire and his cranium throbbed from exertion. He pulled himself up the bureau until his grasping fingers felt the comfort of the Razor. With the last bit of energy he could muster, and with a devilish gleam in his eyes – the Lord unsheathed the Black Razor triumphantly…
A scant few seconds later, the two doors to the Lord’s chambers swung inwards. In strolled the servant-girl Gurtchen, who came to perform her daily cleaning chores. She was startled to see the Lord leering at her from across the room. He sized her up and down with lascivious intent. He ordered her over to him, and she reluctantly obeyed.
I’ll leave it up to you to guess whether the monstrous, inhuman veneer the Lord suddenly adopted was real -- or a side effect of Gurtchen’s “illness”...
Either way, this was not the Lord she recognized. Instead it was a snarling, raging lunatic that thrust her upon his bed before tearing her garments to shreds. He covered her pitiful screams with his hand and proceeded to have his way with her, in most despicable fashion.
This was one of those fade-to-black scenes, but the message was clearly delivered. It worked too, cuz the other players (who had been looking on with rapt interest) now turned to Alexus and sneered for his cruel decision. Alexus’ player (who had NO idea this would happen) was greatly ashamed by his decision. It was one of those turning points when the fun-and-games of the Black Razor became a traumatizing reality. A reality that would only hasten Gurtchen’s descent into madness…
Alexus VS. Elenia Windalla (from the Book of Crypts)
Episode #10 – Corrupted Innocents
This part is in the module, where she uses all her wiles to convince the Lord once and for all to be with her. She gives him the big sob story, saying she “just wants a daddy”. Alexus will be her father, she will be his daughter and together they will be one big happy family. Or else. So what does the Lord of Solyss do, as he gazes deeply into her enchanting azure eyes? Does he try to force her off him? Does he swing around to help Destanial who is still struggling with the doll golem? Does he try to reach his Black Razor, which is sheathed by his bedroll? NONE OF THE ABOVE!
Instead, the Lord stares intensely into Elenia’s eyes, their faces mere inches apart. A soft smile brushes over his lips, and he drops his voice to a soft whisper. “Of course we can be together, Elenia. It’s meant to be,” he gently urges.
Now as DM, this caught me a LITTLE bit by surprise. Even though the module does say to anticipate this happening. So I reacted quickly, and Elenia overcame her initial shock as well. She slipped right into “Innocent” mode, and clutched Alexus’ hand tightly, urging him to move along.
But Alexus was very kind and gentle, when he pulled back her hand and pointed towards Destanial (who FINALLY smashed the doll to pieces, but lay battered and beaten on the ground). Elenia cast a tearful eye towards the Count (who was struggling to his feet), but had no idea was Alexus was trying to say. She figured he was charmed by her innocent façade.
Instead, Alexus reared back with all his might and PIMP-SLAPPED the little girl across the face! He got real stern (and intimidating) when he told her she was a “bad girl, bad girl!” and chastised her for disobeying his commands. He distinctly told her NOT to act this way in front of company, and insisted she be punished. Then he began to uncoil his trusty whip dagger…
So imagine this scene: the silhouette of the girl-child Elenia Windalla stands before the fire, the long, gnarled shadow of her true form looming over the fallen Destanial. He begins to edge himself backwards towards his tighmaevril sword, while she threateningly stalks towards him.
Alexus rises up from beside Alena Nurpašhi, and calls out for his “daughter” to halt her advance. Again she looks towards the Lord with large, watery eyes.
“But daddy, you hurt me!” she cries out, but Alexus slips back into his calm, comforting persona. He slowly makes his way towards the child, with his hands in the air and whispering soothing words the whole while. A few rolls of the dice later, and it was decided that Elenia bought his trickery and stopped moving towards the down Count. This give Destanial enough time to grab his blade and struggle to his knees. All the while, the Lord is cajoling the little girl and getting her to drop her defenses.
Words can’t do this scene justice, as I can’t recall the exact transcript. But despite the Lord’s appearance on these boards not too long ago, I assure you he can be an eloquent speaker when he chooses to. And tonight, his wit and 18 charisma were put to the maximum test.
“You’ve been a good girl, Elenia” the Lord said, still slowly moving towards her. “You’ve been so well behaved tonight, that daddy has a little treat for you”. He reaches behind him to retrieve a “lollypop for daddy’s little angel”.
Elenia is glowing with excitement and joyously exclaims “Daddy, you’ve come home! You’ve come to take me away from the bad place!”
“Yes, angel. Daddy has come to take you away.” The Lord replied. “Take you away forever…”
Little Elenia Windalla, the corrupted innocent, outstretched her arms in a welcoming embrace.
Lord Darkagnon’s right hand reemerged from behind him, but in it was not a lollypop as promised. Instead, he brandished his single-shot dueling pistol from Arkandale.
A single look of shock and horror washed over the child’s features, before the CLAP of the pistol rocked the woods and echoed through the night.
Her once innocent child-like face shattered from the impact, and her tiny body plunged backwards into the fading flames of the bonfire. The sudden force of her landing caused the flames to fan higher and brighter, engulfing her body and roaring over her howls of agony.
Lord Darkagnon slowly lowered the smoking barrel of the wheelock, and watched the flames swallow the little girls body. Count Magorian silently moved beside him, and without a word pitched the broken body of her doll into the fire alongside her. Elenia Windalla is dead.
* That's one hell of a lollipop!
Alexus and Phinean wreak havoc
From Episode #12 - The Rite of Terror
Meanwhile, we join the party in progress down at the Parsed Lip. As stated earlier, Lord Alexus Darkangnon has been getting an earful from the merchant’s guilds about the extortion racket perpetuated by his associate Phinean Windrider. He promised the merchants he would “take care of the problem tonight”. So here he is.
The unsavory types that permeate the establishment roundly greeted him. Nansen, the tavern proprietor (introduced earlier) gave the Lord a hero’s welcome. He knows that without the Lord’s influence, he wouldn’t be able to get away with a lot of what he gets away with. Suffice to say, Lord Darkangnon is feeling the love in what is arguably one of the most hardcore establishments in the village.
He spots Phinean seated in the back, surrounded by associates and other yes-men. Of course he’s flanked by Zex (Phinean’s big-azz fiendish bodyguard). When Phinean sees Alexus approaching, he stands and broadly motions for the Lord to join them. As all eyes at the table turn to see the approaching Lord of Solyss Gundarak, Phinean launches into a soliloquy of praise – extolling the virtues of their fearless leader. His speech is only slightly slurred from the amount of alcohol he’s already consumed.
After gassing up the Lord (the others at the table all politely applaud him as he takes his seat) Phinean offers to buy Alexus a drink. Which he accepts. Which also turns into another three or four more. All the while the whole table is conversing, discussing and guffawing.
Later into the night (after the herd had thinned a bit) Alexus gets to discussing the important extortion issue with Phinean. The two friends lingered around the back of the tavern after Phinean dismissed his bodyguard Zex. There, amidst the cobwebs and shadows, the guild master and his assistant touched on the subject.
Alexus told him how he was accosted by two angry merchants threatening to take their charges to the authorities if something wasn’t done soon. This was indeed a serious charge – one that might even call forth Emperor Raoul Szerezia from Zeidenburg to deal with it personally. Think of the shame, the humiliation and of course – the punishment.
Both Phinean and Alexus agreed this was bad news and they couldn’t let it get that far. So how do they go about stopping this threat to their rule? Do they shape up and ship out? Does Phinean lower the tax so as to not draw the ire of the merchants? Or does Alexus ban the tax outright? Well, you should know Alexus’ character by now and you should know that he chose Option D – None of the Above.
The only way Alexus and Phinean could figure out how to stop the damning words from reaching their final destination was to cut them off at the throat. Yes, that’s right – they won’t give those merchants a CHANCE to contact the authorities. They’re gonna be all over the complaining merchants like flies on sh**. It was after much liquor and other inebriants had been consumed that Phinean and Alexus came to this conclusion. They are suitably zooted, flagrantly faded and looking for some serious drama.
The two decide to get all “retro” and return to their roots as Smoke team revolutionary assassins. They slip out of the Parsed Lip without anybody noticing and head out into the inky black night. They have bad intentions.
That night, those two merchants disappeared from their home. They were never seen again. All that could be seen on that cold dark night was a lone carriage rocking back and forth beneath the pale moonlight – just past the outskirts of Solyss. The horrible song of depraved torture and acute suffering can be heard emanating from within. Both Alexus and Phinean (caught up in the rapture of their drug-induced euphoria) catch an even bigger high as their torturing of the poor merchant goes well into the early morning hours. Faces splattered with blood, and wet instruments of torture at their feet, Alexus and Phinean make certain that their little secret stays within the circle.
[i]DM Note- I’d like to hear your opinions on this one: Act of Ultimate Darkness or not? As stated many times prior, I’m kinda lenient when it comes to my Dming and I alwayz try to give the players a chance – no matter how small or big. And instead of instantly damning Alexus (and Phinean) with an automatic DPz failure, I gave him a percentile roll instead. I set the figure at 9%, which he easily passed (I rolled for Phinean who passed too). What do you think? Too lenient? The only time I ever called for an AoUD was way back in Episode #7: This Thing of Ours when Alexus assassinated a mother and her two young children. Should the brutal torture of this merchant to prevent word of Alexus’ corruption from leaking deserve an AoUD? Your thoughts please…[/i]
From Episode #3 – When Black Roses Bloom
Destanial was lost in thought, dwelling on the death of Solyss Zadaraq – his brother from another mother. The rage he felt over his friends senseless demise fueled him on. Duke Gundar would pay for his sins. Patting the longsword that belonged to Solyss, Destanial didn’t even see notice the dead leaves crunching beneath his every step… only they weren’t leaves. They were cockroaches, a virtual sea of them. Flooding the run down paths and cracked cobblestone walkways. Shrieks of disgust arose from the party – but not Destanial.
From Episode #4 – Death of a Darklord
Destanial wrote…
I must be in a dream. What is this place? I was with Doctor van Richten and Gavin fighting a vampire when she sprang back from a blow that I inflicted and bit me on my neck then every thing went black.
I am a young adventurer who lost a dear life-long friend to a malevolent beast. The tyrant of Gundarak, Duke Gundar.
I VOW TO PLUNGE A STAKE INTO THAT BLACK HEART OF HIS!!
Luck of the Die
From Episode #3 – When Black Roses Bloom
JUST THEN – they hear another door opening down the hall. The gruff sounds of a man cursing can be heard. Destanial recognizes the voice as belonging to Azreal! – the look on his players face was priceless.
So as Alexus and Natacha are pulling on their clothes in the other room, they too hear the voice. And he’s getting closer to them! In various states of undress, the two sex addicts quickly struggled to clothe themselves as Azreal closed in. Alexus considered the windows, but couldn’t get them open. He slid Natacha under the cot, but had nowhere to go himself. So he quickly shuttled behind the chamber doors as they opened inward from Azrael’s arrival.
Luckily, Azreal didn’t close that door behind him – so Alexus stay concealed. He held his breath and hoped Azreal wouldn’t notice him, as the angry dwarven lycanthrope tore through desk drawers muttering under his breath. By the time Azreal found what he was looking for – Destanial and Jalise had silently moved into position. Alexus just wanted Azreal to leave.
But Azreal didn’t leave.
In fact, he got downright suspicious.
Alexus could see the dwarves nostrils flaring – taking in the raunchy odor of hot sex. Slowly, Azreal approached the cot with his mouth watering. Alexus took action.
He bravely (foolishly) strode into the center of the room and asked “remember me?” Azreal sure did and flew into a rage.
…..
Azreal focused all his anger on Alexus, as Destanial snuck from the rear. Destanial snuck in a CRUCIAL critical sneak attack with his blessed dice. I couldn’t believe the amount of crits the kid would roll throughout the night!
……
Finally, a stiff shot from Azreal sent Destanial crashing over the cot and onto the hard stone floor. Azreal was more concerned with Alexus and he had him right where he wanted him – by the collar. He lifted Alexus off his feet and prepared to heave him through the window and off the balcony. Destanial had little time to react and he responded in EXTRA dramatic fashion.
Slowly rising from behind the cot, battered but determined Destanial lets his dagger fly with a called shot to Azreal’s head. ANOTHER natural 20!
Azreal himself ended up crashing out that window and through the balcony, disappearing into the dark recesses of Nedregaard Keep. They made a future Darklord-in-training (Editors Note – Or so we all thought at the time) flee in battle!
(SPOILER!) Episode #17 – Spectres of the Past
There he stood, a few scant yards from the battered ex-Count Destanial Magorian. Obscured by the rolls of black smoke from the farmhouse choking the night sky, Orkus was an intimidating sight.
The heavily armored beastly goon was once when of D’s men. It was only months before that Destanial assumed the position of General in the Homloch forces – leading an elite group of warriors known as the “Shadow Guild”. A hand-selected unit of savage killers that served the new General Destanial Magorian exclusively. Out-of-Game Destanial’s player took the time to carefully label and organize his new group. He came up with names, classes, stats and powers for each of his 12 men. This was his dark fantasy. The one answered by the Black Sorceress Radaga!
But that was then, this is now.
Now, Destanial stood ragged on the brink of collapse. His body ached and he could barely muster the strength to cradle his sword. His clothing was tattered; his armor reduced to scraps. Nothing but black smoke and the sounds of chaos separated the weak Destanial from Orkus the Destroyer.
Destanial bent low to the ground where the fresh corpse of a soldier lay. The ex-General Destanial Magorian still knew the best strikes come from shadows – and so he struck this soldier down unawares. The dead goon never saw it coming.
Destanial used his newly-acquired Shadow sword (acquired in Episode #16 – The Queen’s Embrace) to sever the head of the downed fighter. While big Orkus still watched the destruction before him, and feasted on the people’s lamentations – Destanial was rolling the decapitated head towards him like a bowling ball. When the severed head of his own ranked soldier rolled to a stop at his feet, a look of shock and anger washed over Orkus’ face. He immediately looked off into the black smoke where the rolling head originated from.
He strained to see the culprit. All he caught was the silhoutte of a cloacked figure standing a few yards away. Orkus angrily strode through the smoke towards it.
Destanial’s player announced he was gonna let Orkus get within a few feet of him before ordering him to halt. So he watched big Orkus lumber towards him, cracking his mailed knuckles. When Orkus reached the specified distance, Destanial ordered him to stop.
I gave Orkus a spot check (modified by the surroundings) and he passed. He recognized the cloaked stranger as his former General, Destanial Magorian! The same ex-General that is now a wanted fugitive in the state of Homloch. The head of Destanial Magorian would instantly bring Orkus infamy and fortune. Upon seeing this wanted criminal before him, Orkus unsheathed his massive sword. Again Destanial ordered Orkus to halt. The gruesome smiled his yellow grin and continued his approach.
So Destanial’s player announced he’s hurling his dagger at Orkus, as the monster hungrily licks his lips in anticipation. After D throws the dagger he wants to retreat.
Destanial’s player rolls to attack and gets a natural 20! A critical threat!
He grabs the die again and rolls the threat – another NATURAL 20!
So that’s definitely a critical hit. Could it be more? Keep in my mind – this is our FIRST session at my new place, and my girl (her friend and her friend’s boyfriend) are all there too. They’re alerted to all the hooting and hollering after the two 20’s so they come into the Game room to watch. D’s player picks up the die again to see if it’s a coup de grace.
He rolls a 3rd NATURAL 20!!!
Wow. The table erupted into cheers and high-fives. That izh was ultimate. Orkus was left lying on the muddy ground, twitching involuntarly. His fingers grasped for the heavy sword that was no longer there. Orkus the Destroyer lay dead at the feet of his ex-General. [/b]
Moon Madness
Episode #6 – And Wilt Thou Leave Me Thus?
This wasn’t the first time Destanial fell victim to this strange outburst. And it certainly won’t be the last. It’s a feeling that can’t be described. He feels it coursing through his veins, as if the very affliction were part of his bloodline. Peep this:
MadStepDad date=05/18/03 at 08:33:19
TUESDAY, APRIL 3, 736 (full moon)
The stress of the previous few weeks weighing heavily on his mind, and dire word returning to him from Solyss stating the possibility of a peasant revolt, Count Destanial Magorian strips himself of his earthly remnants, and immerses himself in the sanctity of his natural surroundings. He runs nude through the country fields of Union Veil, with the moon's bright light shining down on him.
……
An hour (or two) passes, before the worn, haggard Count of Solyss, Gundarak makes his way back to the main streets of Levkarest, Borca. The full moon continues to whisper his name. He is tired, yet strangely fulfilled. In his arms he carries with him his gear, and in his mind he carries with him the pure thoughts of honor and clarity. His system has been purged of all that is wanton and sinful. He is cleansed.
……
From Episode #7 – This Thing of Ours
Maybe it was the summer heat. Maybe it had to do with the sweltering chemistry the Count shared with Nostalia Romaine. But most likely, it had something to do with the full moon above. Regardless of the source, Count Destanial Magorian sweat it out beneath the heat of a hundred summers. He couldn’t even think straight, his thoughts were muddled and confused. His body was shaking and the wilds called his name. JUST as Nostalia reached out with her hand to stroke his chest, the Count suddenly BOLTED out the door at top speed! He didn’t even realize what he was doing. His legs seemed to have a life of their own. Tearing off down the street at breakneck speed, he began to peel off his garments one by one.
Destanial VS. The Green Eyez
From Episode #6 - And Wilt Thou Leave Me Thus?
”Now I know the wolves in Arkandale are abundant…” Harold Membrose begins, “but I’ve NEVER seen an animal make these kind of marks.” (gestures to the gouges). “I’ve lost many a good man to these wilds. So much so, it’s getting hard to find a decent worker willing to take the job! Even at the rates I’m paying!” Harold laments. Destanial just looks on curiously. “But rest assured, Count Magorian, I have hired some qualified hunters to take care of this menace for me. Thus far, they haven’t had much luck and I keep losing men... but faith prevails”.
…..
But even MORE horrifying to Destanial, is the fact that the mysterious attacker is PERCHED ON THEIR CHESTS – gnawing away at their flesh! Destanial gasps in shock and the humanoid creature NOTICES HIM! It’s one of those darkskinned slaves and he’s wearing an old raggedy cloak. Destanial instinctively unsheathes his tighmaevril blade and the slave LEAPS off the victim, darting back into the forests. Destanial immediately gives chase…