With the realization that Kufstos had mistaken Thindruk for Lackarsson, the party made their way to Bögenhafen, securing lodgings at the Riverside Haven Inn. The rundown district led them to the ominous offices of Lock, Stock, and Borrow, where a tense confrontation awaited. A young clerk, expecting “Kazzrik Lakkarsson,” was interrupted by a shrill whistle, signaling danger. Shutters slammed shut, and a woman’s voice from outside accused Thindruk and his companions of conspiring with chaos, demanding their surrender.

Amid the chaos, Thindruk loudly denied the accusations, blaming a no-good brother for any chaos involvement. The woman outside commanded to burn the building down, leading to a cacophony of steel clattering and screams. The party narrowly escaped out the back, reaffirming their true identities amidst the confusion.

The next day, the festival was in full swing, its jubilant atmosphere a stark contrast to the previous night’s tension. Qavitrae, seeking information about the Order of the Purple Hand, found herself frustrated by the lack of records. Meanwhile, Wanda and Nora, driven by curiosity and bravado, signed up for the Grand Melee competition. Felrick’s encounter with a con artist ended with a profitable lesson in sleight of hand, showcasing his resourcefulness.

Nora, emboldened by her Blitzball prowess and a touch of drunkenness, entered a bare-knuckle boxing match against the Crusher. With Wanda’s litany of hatred weakening the opponent, Nora’s athleticism and determination saw her victorious. The barker, taken aback by her triumph, awarded her four gold crowns, though Nora, barely lucid, clutched her winnings in a daze.

As the day progressed, the party’s camaraderie shone through their interactions, from Qavitrae’s performance with street entertainers to their collective support for Nora’s reckless bravery. The discovery of Dr. Malthusius’ Zoopia piqued their curiosity further, each exhibit hinting at exotic and potentially dangerous creatures.

Their evening at the Half Measure tavern brought laughter and levity, despite the underlying tension of their mission. The fortune teller’s ominous prediction for Nora added a layer of foreboding to their otherwise festive day. As the night wore on, the party’s focus shifted from their quest to the simple enjoyment of the festival, a brief respite from the perils that lay ahead.

The session drew to a close with the group contemplating their next steps amidst the bustling Schaffenfest. The unresolved threads of the Order of the Purple Hand and the Prince of Ostland’s activities lingered in their minds, promising further adventures and dangers. Yet, for now, they reveled in their victories and the bonds forged through shared trials, their collective mettle tested and proven time and again.

As the moon rose high over Bögenhafen, the adventurers found solace in their temporary reprieve, knowing that the path ahead would be fraught with challenges. But together, they stood ready to face whatever perils awaited, their stories destined to become as legendary as the histories that preceded them.

Session Notes

  • Michael humorously recaps a previous event where the party killed and sold a horse.

  • Damian and Michael engage in banter, with Damian humorously mispronouncing Wanda’s last name as “Hahn-e-man.”

  • Brian clarifies that he gave the horse away rather than sold it, indicating he tried to avoid creating problems.

  • Joe defends Felrick’s actions, stating he created and then solved the problem, with Michael adding that Felrick solved multiple problems.

  • Luke begins narrating the session, setting a scene of moonlit intrigue and daring deeds.

  • Felrick and Qavitrae attempt to sneak into a warehouse but are thwarted by a locked door.

  • They rejoin the group for a more direct approach, with Wanda aggressively pounding and eventually hacking at the warehouse door, attracting the attention of uniformed men.

  • Thindruk cleverly claims the warehouse as his own and brands the occupants as villains, convincing the uniformed men and calling reinforcements.

  • The stevedores reveal they were hired by Herkouftsos, who just looked out the back.

  • Felrick follows Kufstos, who tries to flee on horseback. Felrick shoots the horse, causing Kufstos to vanish into the night.

  • Felrick finds a letter in the saddlebags addressed to Kufstos, mentioning a magister impedimentae, alias Kazzrik Lakkarsson, on the Middenheim Road to Altdorf, with a sketch resembling Thindruk.

  • Realizing Kufstos mistook Thindruk for Lackarsson, the party heads to Bögenhafen and secures lodgings at the Riverside Haven Inn.

  • The group ventures to the rundown district, finding the offices of Lock, Stock, and Borrow in a narrow, ominous alley.

  • Luke narrates the atmosphere, filled with coal smoke, and sets the scene for the group’s entry into the law office.

  • The party meets a young clerk who mentions Herr Barl is awaiting “Kazzrik Lakkarsson.”

  • Michael and Joe question Thindruk about using the alias Lakkarsson, with Robert revealing his true identity and explaining the letter Felrick found.

  • A sudden shrill whistle outside signals danger, followed by shutters slamming shut, plunging the room into darkness.

  • The group prepares for confrontation, with Joe drawing his weapon and Michael lighting a lantern.

  • A woman’s voice calls out, accusing Thindruk (Kazzrik Lakkarsson) and his companions of conspiring with chaos and other crimes, demanding their surrender.

  • The woman implies the party killed Herkouftsos, threatening to kill them in return.

  • Michael and Joe try to reason with the accuser, explaining their fight against chaos.

  • Thindruk (Kazzrik Lakkarsson) loudly denies the accusations, blaming a no-good brother for any chaos involvement.

  • The woman outside commands to burn the building down, leading to chaotic noises, steel clattering, and screams.

  • The party decides to escape out the back, with Robert reaffirming his true identity as Thindruk Steelbone amidst the confusion.

  • Michael humorously continues to call Thindruk “Herr Lakkarsson” despite the clarifications.

  • Initial Setting: The scene begins with the party trapped inside a steelworks building, discussing their next steps. The atmosphere is tense, and the characters are trying to figure out their predicament.

  • Discussion and Planning:

    • Damian and Michael have a lighthearted exchange about their current situation.
    • Michael (Wanda) suggests that Rick might have insights into the conspiracy they are dealing with.
    • Brian (Felrick) checks for fire and smoke, confirming there is none.
    • Damian (Nora) checks if the door they came through is locked, which Luke (GM) confirms has been spiked shut with iron spikes.

  • Observation on the Door:

    • The party notes that the door has been spiked shut from the outside, indicating someone was prepared to trap them inside.
    • Michael (Wanda) and Brian (Felrick) discuss using force to break down the door, with Michael mentioning he has an axe.

  • Realization of a Trap:

    • The party realizes that the situation was a trap, as the presence of a lawyer in the steelworks seemed suspicious.
    • Joe (Qavitrae) suggests getting the door open and asks Wanda for help. Wanda acknowledges she could make a new door if needed.

  • Urgency to Leave:

    • The party members express their desire to leave the premises, with Michael (Wanda) jokingly asking for confirmation from Robert (Thindruk) before taking action.
    • Damian (Nora) speculates that cult members might come to their aid, showing a mix of hope and sarcasm.

  • Searching for Supplies and Evidence:

    • Joe (Qavitrae) looks for pen and ink to draft a contract, taking advantage of the lawyer’s office setting.
    • Damian (Nora) hands over a document related to Per Lackerson, suggesting they use it for the contract.
    • Brian (Felrick) starts searching through the desk for money or useful items, finding a basic writing kit but no substantial loot.

  • Breaking Down the Door:

    • Robert (Thindruk) attempts to bust down the door, using his shoulder to slam it repeatedly until it comes open.
    • Luke (GM) guides the players through the mechanics of breaking down the door, emphasizing the lack of time pressure.

  • Fear Check:

    • Luke (GM) instructs the players to make a fear check upon exiting the building, describing the gruesome scene outside.
    • The party witnesses a massacre with dismembered bodies, causing significant fear and stress among the characters.
    • Thindruk takes three levels of peril, affecting his abilities.

  • Looting and Awareness:

    • Joe (Qavitrae) searches the bodies for valuables but finds only eight pennies, hesitant to get too messy.
    • Michael (Wanda) inquires about the weapons and armor on the deceased, noting a well-made sword on a woman with an eyepatch.
    • The party observes people peeking out of windows at the carnage before quickly retreating.

  • Second Awareness Check:

    • The party makes additional awareness checks to find clues about the assailants but fails to notice anything significant.
    • Damian (Nora) and other characters express frustration at the lack of evidence of who committed the violence.

  • Looting and Leaving:

    • Joe (Qavitrae) decides to loot a quality sword from one of the bodies, recognizing its military grade.
    • Luke (GM) confirms the sword’s quality but not its fanciness.
    • Characters who failed the fear check receive six corruption points, adding to their growing sense of unease.

  • Final Decision:

    • The party decides to leave the area quickly, realizing lingering could attract unwanted attention.
    • Joe (Qavitrae) suggests finding Thindruk’s prince to secure paid work.
    • Robert (Thindruk) finally unmutes and confirms the party’s next steps.

  • Characters Present:

    • Qavitrae (Joe)
    • Thindruk Steelbone (Robert)
    • Wanda Hahnemann (Michael)
    • Nora Abendroth (Damian)
    • Felrick Flappan (Brian)
    • GM (Luke)

  • Events and Actions:

    • The party discusses the status of Flippetry and Juan, who are no longer present.
    • Michael (Wanda) and Robert (Thindruk) review their corruption points and peril thresholds, with Luke (GM) confirming the rules for taking peril.
    • Joe (Qavitrae) reflects on the gruesome sight they witnessed, relating it to past experiences in the Chaos Wars.
    • Michael (Wanda) and Joe (Qavitrae) speculate on the type of weapon used in the recent murders, concluding it was likely a heavy, non-magical weapon wielded by a large person.
    • The group plans their escape from the area without drawing attention, deciding to use stealth to blend in casually.
    • Luke (GM) sets the difficulty for the stealth check and describes the environment as an urban setting. The rolls result in Qavitrae achieving a critical success, which covers for the other party members’ failed attempts.
    • The party successfully reaches the Eisenbahn and blends into the crowd, planning to create more distance from the crime scene.
    • They decide to find a tavern to relax and gather their thoughts, aiming to meet up with Josef.
    • The party heads towards the docks to see if they can find Josef at the Half Measure tavern, a halfling establishment known for its good meals.
    • Gilda, a contact, mentions that Josef likes the cooking at the Half Measure and might be there for a meal.
    • Volmar suggests they try the stuffed lamb chops at the tavern.
    • The party receives directions to the Half Measure, located in the Alstadt part of town.
    • They contemplate taking a ferry across the river to reach the other side of town, considering it a safer option after the recent massacre.
    • Joe (Qavitrae) takes Thindruk (Robert) aside to question what they have gotten themselves into.
    • Robert (Thindruk) seems uncertain and slightly distracted during the conversation.
    • The GM (Luke) indicates it’s later in the afternoon as the party heads towards the Half Measure to find Josef.
    • The party discusses their next steps, including securing a place to stay for the night and planning to investigate the prince’s presence in town and the upcoming festival.
    • They confirm they already have rooms booked and decide to focus on finding Josef and then investigating the prince.
    • Thindruk (Robert) suggests burning an inheritance letter addressed to Kazzrik Lakkarsson, which they consider suspicious.

  • Detailed Dialogues:

    • Joe (Qavitrae) mentions seeing worse things in the Chaos Wars but notes it’s unusual to see men torn limb from limb.
    • Michael (Wanda) speculates on the type of sword used in the murders, suspecting it was something heavy.
    • Joe (Qavitrae) and Michael (Wanda) discuss the noise they heard, considering it was likely the murderer running on the roof.
    • The group discusses their stealth approach, with Michael (Wanda) emphasizing the importance of not drawing attention by acting normally.
    • Joe (Qavitrae) expresses concerns over the chaos and violence they are encountering, questioning Thindruk (Robert) about the situation.
    • The party debates the significance of the prince’s visit to Bögenhafen and possible motivations.
    • They consider the safety of burning a fake inheritance letter, weighing the potential consequences.

  • Character Moments:

    • Qavitrae’s critical success in the stealth check demonstrates her leadership and composure under pressure.
    • Thindruk’s distraction and uncertainty hint at deeper concerns or a lack of full awareness of the situation.
    • Wanda’s tactical thinking and insistence on maintaining a calm demeanor highlight her experience and practicality.
    • The group’s camaraderie and mutual support are evident as they navigate the tense situation and plan their next moves.

  • Thindruk’s Denial: Thindruk Steelbone, voiced by Robert, denies any knowledge of an affidavit referring to him as Kazzriklakkarsson. He insists he’s just Thindruk seeking honest work from the Prince.

  • Nora’s Suspicion: Damian, playing Nora Abendroth, expresses suspicion and curiosity about Thindruk’s true intentions, emphasizing the need for clarity given previous announcements and actions.

  • Burning Evidence: Thindruk is in the process of burning documents, which raises further questions among the party members, particularly from Nora and Wanda.

  • Thindruk’s Explanation: Under pressure, Thindruk reveals the man they found by the road was not his brother but a bad man involved in a dubious business scheme. Thindruk admits to taking advantage of a letter stating the man had no next of kin to inherit a lordship.

  • Wanda’s Ultimatum: Wanda, played by Michael, demands honesty from Thindruk, emphasizing the group’s need for trust and transparency.

  • Thindruk’s Status: Despite the chaos, Thindruk reaffirms his status as a Viscount, albeit an unlanded one, and acknowledges the need to prove their honest business with the Prince to stay alive.

  • Order of the Purple Hand: The party recalls the tattoo of a purple hand found on the dead man, linking it to the mysterious “Order of the Purple Hand.”

  • Discussion on Plans: The group discusses their next steps, including enjoying the Schaffenfest and dealing with the Prince’s business. They humorously note their precarious situation and Thindruk’s dubious status.

  • Social Interactions: The party heads to the Half Measure tavern, where they find Josef and a group of halflings enjoying themselves. The mood is positive, and the tavern is bustling with pre-festival excitement.

  • Qavitrae’s Engagement: Qavitrae, played by Joe, joins the halflings at their table and engages in a game of tall tales, earning a smirk from one of the halflings. She later excuses herself to try and earn some money through gambling.

  • Gambling Session: Qavitrae sizes up a table of drunk and stoned rubes and halflings, realizing the halflings are skilled gamblers likely aiming to rob the unsuspecting visitors. She manages to win 12 pennies before the rubes excuse themselves.

  • High-Stakes Invitation: One of the halflings, impressed by Qavitrae, invites her to a high-stakes game. He suggests she could use her sword as a buy-in or take a loan from a friend. Qavitrae offers her fine daggers instead, reluctant to part with her sword.

  • Joe (Qavitrae) pulls out two bollock daggers, which are simple melee weapons.

  • Luke (GM) confirms the value of the bollock daggers, which are worth about 10 shillings each, totaling one crown for two.

  • Joe (Qavitrae) decides to use the daggers as stakes for gambling and engages in a conversation with another gambler who expresses a liking for Qavitrae.

  • Luke (GM) requests a gamble check from Qavitrae, implying a gambling session in a backroom (basement) dominated by halflings.

  • Joe (Qavitrae) wants to observe if the gamblers are cheating and makes an awareness check.

  • Luke (GM) notes that if the gamblers are cheating, they are very skilled, and requests a gamble check from Qavitrae.

  • Damian (Nora) reacts with concern.

  • Joe (Qavitrae) uses a coin to improve his gamble check result.

  • Luke (GM) describes a suspicious moment where a halfling rolls doubles unexpectedly, hinting at possible cheating.

  • Joe (Qavitrae) sarcastically responds to the halfling’s surprise.

  • Luke (GM) narrates Qavitrae’s departure from the game with whatever money remains from the daggers’ worth, which was eightpence.

  • Joe (Qavitrae) removes the bollock daggers from his inventory.

  • Michael (Wanda) comments on weapon quality, discussing the benefits of a Martelmeyer weapon.

  • Luke (GM) confirms the Martelmeyer weapon’s superior qualities, emphasizing its positive and lack of negative tags.

  • Luke (GM) transitions to describing the party’s evening at the Half Measure tavern, highlighting the fun despite the gambling loss.

  • Joe (Qavitrae) reflects on the purpose of the daggers, noting they were from corpses and served to teach a valuable lesson about gambling.

  • Luke (GM) clarifies the nature of the gambling game as a serious, backroom activity.

  • Michael (Wanda) and Joe (Qavitrae) discuss the experience and potential lessons learned.

  • Luke (GM) inquires if anyone got intoxicated, prompting rolls for those who failed fear checks.

  • Damian (Nora) confirms Nora had some drinks.

  • Brian (Felrick) and Robert (Thindruk) express their characters’ likelihood of drinking.

  • Luke (GM) requests toughness checks from those who got drunk.

  • Michael (Wanda) and Joe (Qavitrae) note their characters’ successful rolls, avoiding intoxication.

  • Robert (Thindruk) mentions his character’s “Cruising” talent, deciding Thindruk is a friendly drunk for the evening.

  • Joe (Qavitrae) appreciates Thindruk’s friendly demeanor, reflecting on the day’s activities.

  • Michael (Wanda) humorously interacts with Thindruk, emphasizing camaraderie.

  • Luke (GM) describes the party’s late-night return to the Riverside Haven, including an amusing incident where a lamb chop is slid under a door.

  • Luke (GM) confirms the party’s safe rest and full recovery from peril.

  • Brian (Felrick) and Damian (Nora) joke about the constant worry of being stabbed in their sleep.

  • Luke (GM) narrates the next morning, marked by criers in the streets announcing the Schaffenfest festival.

  • Michael (Wanda) and Damian (Nora) humorously describe their characters’ morning activities, highlighting Nora’s athleticism.

  • Joe (Qavitrae) decides to investigate the Order of the Purple Hand, planning to visit a guild registrar or library.

  • Michael (Wanda) suggests Thindruk wear a mask, leading to a humorous discussion about dwarf beards.

  • Luke (GM) directs Qavitrae to the administrative hub of Bögenhafen, specifying the Halls of Records near the town hall.

  • Joe (Qavitrae) follows the instructions, seeking information about the Order of the Purple Hand.

  • Luke (GM) confirms the location in the Driekeplatz and requests a charm or education check from Qavitrae to gather information.

  • Joe (Qavitrae) opts for an education check due to being trained in it, though the check is routine.

  • Brian (Felrick) and Damian (Nora) react to the process.

  • Luke (GM) narrates Qavitrae’s inquiries, noting the lack of conclusive answers and the confusion among the clerks about the term “Purple Hand.”

  • Luke: Describes a bureaucratic quest for information that ends in frustration, mentioning that no one recognized the name and there was no conclusive answer.

  • Joe: Makes a brief comment, expressing frustration with poor record-keeping.

  • Luke: Mentions that this took a significant part of Qavitrae’s morning.

  • Michael: Expresses a desire to use the Rumor skill to find out about the Prince’s location.

  • Brian: Mentions wanting to participate in the Schaffenfest.

  • Luke: Encourages Michael to gather information and make a Rumor check, noting that Brian will assist.

  • Michael: Successfully flips to succeed on the Rumor check with Brian’s assistance.

  • Luke: Describes the process of asking around, eventually leading to a dockmaster who mentions that the Crown Prince of Ostland, von Taschnik, passed through Bögenhafen five days ago on a fancy barge.

  • Michael: Corrects the name to von Tesselhoff and jokes about the blooming onion.

  • Luke: Continues discussing the Prince, stating he had business in the Grey Mountains, and left quickly after a brief stay.

  • Michael: Mentions that the information about the Grey Mountains aligns with their quest.

  • Luke: Adds that the Prince likely traveled up the river towards Merlinfort.

  • Michael: Discusses the logistics of following the Prince and the challenges involved.

  • Brian: Expresses doubt about catching up with the Prince since it was five days ago.

  • Michael: Suggests focusing on the Cult of the Purple Hand instead.

  • Robert: Agrees, suggesting their best cover is to appear as though they are there for the festival.

  • Brian: Jokes about just wanting to enjoy the festival.

  • Michael: Shares a story about a homebrewers festival in Colorado where attendees wore pretzel necklaces.

  • Luke: Describes the bustling Schaffenfest, highlighting various activities such as livestock trading, food stalls, face-painting, fortune-telling, and performances.

  • Michael: Expresses interest in getting his fortune read.

  • Luke: Mentions the presence of jousting lists and a Grand Melee competition open to commoners.

  • Michael: Excitedly decides to compete in the Grand Melee, noting it as a prestigious opportunity.

  • Damian: Agrees, suggesting that Wanda and Nora will both sign up.

  • Luke: Explains the entry process, highlighting the entry fee of six pence.

  • Michael: Affirms he can pay the fee and mentions his blunt weapons.

  • Luke: Describes the more official and elaborate setup of the jousting lists and fighting rings, with Reikland nobles and their well-armored retainers present.

  • The session begins with the GM, Luke, describing the presence of well-armored bodyguards overseeing the crowds.

  • Michael, playing Wanda Hahnemann, asks Joe if Qavitrae wants to join them. Joe, playing Qavitrae, mentions she will be researching until midday and will join the group thereafter.

  • Michael suggests signing Qavitrae up for an event, and Luke confirms they can do so for a sixpence fee.

  • Damian, playing Nora Abendroth, expresses interest in including Thindruk Steelbone in their plans. Robert, playing Thindruk, declines, stating it wouldn’t be appropriate for him to participate.

  • The group discusses the appropriateness of Thindruk joining commoner activities, with the consensus being that it’s better suited for commoners.

  • Michael takes the initiative to sign Qavitrae up for the event.

  • Joe reminisces about his wife’s recent viewing of “My Lady Jane,” comparing it to “A Knight’s Tale.”

  • Luke takes a brief break, leaving the players to discuss their plans for the Schaffenfest.

  • Michael expresses interest in visiting a fortune teller, anticipating an ominous prediction about their futures.

  • Damian supports the idea, adding that he expects something awful from the fortune teller.

  • Robert mentions Thindruk will spend his time drinking and socializing, fitting his character’s disposition.

  • Joe notes that their primary reason for being at the festival has passed, suggesting they should focus on making names for themselves by taking out the Order of the Purple Hand.

  • Michael and Damian discuss the nature of the Order of the Purple Hand, speculating whether it’s a local gang or a larger organization.

  • Michael proposes a pact among the three of them to support each other in the tournament until it comes down to just them.

  • Luke explains that the tournament will be a series of battles, with the top 16 participants entering a more formal competition.

  • Damian reiterates his interest in visiting the fortune teller and watching the jousting event.

  • Luke confirms that these activities are ongoing throughout the day.

  • Michael emphasizes his curiosity about the fortune teller’s predictions.

  • A discussion about Michael’s pet dog ensues, providing a brief moment of levity.

  • Michael decides to use his rumor skill to gather information about the Grey Mountains and the Prince of Ostland’s activities.

  • Luke sets the difficulty for the rumor check as easy, considering the festive environment and people’s willingness to share information.

  • Michael succeeds in his rumor check, learning that the Prince of Ostland is dealing with mutant pirates on the river Bergen, who have been sinking barges.

  • The GM provides some geographical context, indicating that Castle Gruenberg is likely located along the river, west of Bögenhafen, serving as a military position.

  • The group turns their attention to the fortune teller for Nora.

  • Luke introduces the fortune teller as a man with deeply tanned skin, an exotic accent, and an intricately wrapped cloth on his head, indicating his mysterious and foreign nature.

  • Michael (Wanda) and Brian (Felrick) accompany Damian (Nora) to the fortune teller, with Felrick joining despite being drunk.

  • Damian pays the fortune teller a shilling for his services.

  • Luke asks Damian to make a blind GM roll to determine the reliability of the fortune teller.

  • The fortune teller, introducing himself as the mystic Magritte, begins reading Nora’s palm, describing a dark, narrow place with water and death, and warns of a dangerous, deceptive man.

  • Nora (Damian) initially dismisses the warning as referring to Thindruk but becomes more contemplative after the fortune teller emphasizes the danger.

  • The fortune teller advises Nora to be cautious and offers to provide more insights after resting until the end of the day.

  • Nora agrees to return later, feeling a mix of skepticism and concern.

  • The session concludes with the group stepping back into the bustling festival atmosphere, planning their next moves.

  • Scene Setup

    • The GM, Luke, describes a character at a small table wearing a Robin Hood-style hat with a single long feather. The character is meagerly dressed.
    • The character invites passersby to engage in a game of chance involving three cups and an acorn, claiming it to be a game of skill for those with keen eyes.

  • Felrick’s Interaction with the Con Artist

    • Felrick (Brian) agrees to participate in the game, showing eagerness and confidence.
    • Thindruk (Michael) warns Felrick, suggesting that it’s difficult to scam a scammer.
    • The GM instructs Felrick to make a very hard (arduous) perception check to follow the acorn under the cups.
    • Felrick makes the check but fails, leading to the loss of a shilling.
    • Felrick decides to double his bet, placing two shillings on the table.
    • Felrick succeeds on the second arduous perception check, identifying the correct cup.
    • The con artist reluctantly pays Felrick four shillings, acknowledging his keen eye.

  • Felrick Learns the Trick

    • Felrick asks the con artist to show him how the trick works.
    • The GM requests a charm check from Felrick to persuade the con artist.
    • Felrick uses a special ability, “Way of the Gnome,” to aid his charm check and succeeds.
    • The con artist, impressed by Felrick’s charm, explains the sleight of hand technique, including palming the acorn and switching cups to mislead players.
    • The con artist emphasizes that while his game involves some deception, he does not consider it outright cheating.

  • Festival Atmosphere

    • The GM describes a busy festival scene with many people roaming around.
    • Felrick, feeling pleased with his interaction, plans to send his friends to the con artist, referring to them humorously as “chumps.”
    • Wanda (Michael) is busy trying to eat pretzels and drink beer simultaneously.
    • Qavitrae (Joe) arrives and joins the group after searching the festival crowd.

  • Intoxication Check

    • The GM asks all characters who have been partaking in the festival festivities, including drinking beer, to make an intoxication check using their toughness stat.
    • Multiple characters, including Thindruk and Wanda, make their checks.
    • Nora (Damian) critically fails her intoxication check, leading to her becoming incapacitated.
    • The GM describes the effects of the intoxication, noting that Nora is barely lucid and suffering from paranoia, often mistaking people for doppelgangers.

  • Grand Melee Competition

    • The group discusses their participation in the Grand Melee competition.
    • Qavitrae asks about the prize for the competition, which includes a cash prize and the opportunity to swear fealty.
    • Wanda and Nora are signed up to fight in the competition.

  • Search for the Handsome Man

    • Nora, despite her intoxicated state, insists on finding a “handsome man” she believes to be at the festival.
    • The group recalls that this man was previously chased by Felrick.
    • Wanda decides to ask around for rumors about the handsome man, planning to make an awareness check at an arduous difficulty level.

  • Luke: Indicates the scene’s context, mentioning that the festival is bustling, making it hard to find specific individuals.

  • Michael: Suggests he has a good description of the person they’re looking for and knows his name.

  • Luke: States it will still be an arduous check to find this person in the crowd.

  • Michael: Acknowledges the difficulty but remains determined.

  • Michael: Asks Felrick for help.

  • Brian: Jokingly remarks that once Felrick was mentioned as the second favorite, he was onboard.

  • Michael: Continues the banter about the bounty hunter’s rank in his favorites.

  • Luke: Confirms the arduous check, flipped to succeed, and assisted.

  • Michael: Rolls for the check but realizes it’s challenging due to the crowd’s size and noise.

  • Luke: Suggests that the only way to get noticed would be to make a dramatic announcement, which would be counterproductive if the person is keeping a low profile.

  • Brian: Comments about the individual’s likely behavior based on past encounters.

  • Michael: Accepts that despite his efforts, he can’t find the person.

  • Luke: Agrees and transitions the scene.

  • Luke: Instructs all players except Felrick to roll 1d100 to determine the highest roll.

  • Joe: Rolls and notes that his character, Qavitrae, rolled the highest.

  • Luke: Directs Qavitrae to roll again and announces a small sideshow catches her attention.

  • Luke: Describes the sideshow consisting of a fire eater, a sword swallower, and two jugglers, who notice Qavitrae.

  • Luke: Narrates one juggler’s reaction to Qavitrae, recognizing her as a wood elf.

  • Joe: Responds in character, acknowledging the juggler’s greeting.

  • Luke: The juggler loudly announces Qavitrae’s presence to the crowd, drawing attention.

  • Joe: Modestly corrects the juggler’s description of her age.

  • Luke: Explains the juggler is trying to draw Qavitrae into their performance.

  • Joe: Agrees to participate and decides to involve Thindruk.

  • Luke: Accepts this and the juggler mentions the historical conflict between elves and dwarves.

  • Robert: Laughs at the reference.

  • Joe: Jokes about not shaving Thindruk’s beard, indicating peace.

  • Michael: Suggests adding Felrick to the performance, humorously referencing gnome existence.

  • Robert: Plays along, expressing disbelief at gnomes.

  • Michael: Warns about doppelgangers playfully.

  • Luke: Asks Qavitrae and Thindruk to make charm checks if they want to engage with the performance.

  • Joe: Agrees and asks Thindruk about his charm skill.

  • Robert: Notes he is a friendly drunk, which gives him a charm bonus.

  • Joe: Sets the roll to standard.

  • Robert: Confirms the bonus.

  • Joe: Successfully rolls for charm.

  • Luke: Describes the performer’s storytelling and crowd engagement, which results in a shower of coins.

  • Luke: The performer shares some of the earnings with Thindruk, giving him 20 shillings.

  • Joe: Compliments the performer’s storytelling.

  • Michael: Jokes about the wealth gained.

  • Luke: Transitions to a new scene, mentioning the time of day and the festival’s ongoing events.

  • Michael: Asks about night events.

  • Luke: Explains the jousting lists are the major ongoing events with various performances scheduled throughout.

  • Michael: Jokes about wanting to see a musical performance.

  • Luke: Indicates they find themselves at the Livestock Fair, with a rowdy crowd and the sound of fist fights.

  • Michael: Mentions keeping Nora upright as they navigate the festival.

  • Luke: Asks Nora to make a resolve check due to her inebriated state.

  • Damian: Rolls successfully.

  • Luke: Narrates Nora seeing someone she believes is a doppelganger, leading to a confrontation with festival watchmen.

  • Damian: Decides to punch one of the watchmen.

  • Luke: Asks for a simple melee check.

  • Damian: Prepares to roll but confirms he will use bare hands.

  • Luke: Provides the barehanded strike option and sets the opponent’s parry at 40.

  • Damian: Rolls successfully and hits the watchman.

  • Luke: Describes the watchman’s reaction and the escalating situation.

  • Michael: Steps in to bribe the guard, offering five brass pennies.

  • Luke: Sets the check to routine.

  • Joe: Assists with the bargain check.

  • Michael: Uses his Cosmopolitan trait to flip to succeed on the bribery roll.

  • Luke: Accepts the bribe, allowing them to avoid further trouble.

  • Damian: Describes Nora’s drunken shouting as she’s led away.

  • Luke: Transitions to the next scene at the livestock area, noting a rowdy crowd and the sound of fist fights.

  • Joe: Thanks the group for their efforts.

  • Brian comments on the group having just heard something.

  • Joe agrees, stating that they just did it and calls it magnificent.

  • Michael starts to say something but gets interrupted.

  • Luke narrates, describing a man in a garish costume standing at the edge of a ring. The man seems to have a tail.

  • Robert confirms the presence of a tail.

  • Michael is impressed and asks if the man has a tail.

  • Luke explains that the man is a carnival barker in a motley suit, energetically engaging the crowd.

  • The barker, adopting a posh accent, challenges the crowd to face “the Crusher,” promising two crowns for lasting three minutes and four crowns for defeating the champion in that time.

  • Thindruk realizes the barker is a lowborn impersonating a posh accent, unlike the rest who see him as sophisticated.

  • Luke describes the Crusher, a muscular and bloodied brawler, as a big man who looks exhausted but still formidable.

  • Brian and the group repeatedly call out for Nora, emphasizing her name.

  • Luke continues the barker’s spiel, hyping the challenge to the crowd.

  • Joe and Damian inquire about placing wagers on the Crusher.

  • Michael’s character, Wanda, sets up a side-betting bowl.

  • Luke narrates the barker’s offer of two crowns for three minutes in the ring and four crowns for defeating the champion.

  • Brian describes Felrick hyping up Nora, who is contemplating her blitzball.

  • The barker points out Nora, insinuating she looks capable despite her drunken state.

  • Michael makes a side comment about boxing rounds.

  • Luke continues, encouraging Nora to demonstrate her strength for a two-shilling entrance fee.

  • Brian offers to pay the fee as Damian’s character, Nora, questions why she’s being yelled at.

  • Michael explains to Nora that she can win money by fighting, humorously convincing her it’s the man who tried to arrest her.

  • Luke confirms the payment and details the litany of bolstering someone in combat.

  • Michael clarifies the use of the Litany of Hatred to reduce the opponent’s damage threshold.

  • Luke emphasizes the barker’s intent to intimidate, setting a harder difficulty for the speech.

  • The group discusses strategy, with Michael and Joe planning to use inspiring words to support Nora.

  • Luke sets the scene with tokens for Nora and the Crusher, preparing for a combat encounter.

  • The group discusses armor and damage thresholds, with Nora adjusting her armor to reflect her current state.

  • Luke describes the Crusher’s attack, a straightforward attempt to down Nora quickly.

  • Nora successfully parries the attack, demonstrating her reflexes from Blitzball.

  • Luke narrates the Crusher’s reaction, giving Nora her turn.

  • Michael, as Wanda, performs the Litany of Hatred, reducing the Crusher’s damage threshold.

  • Michael successfully rerolls a failed attempt using the “Pay the Piper” ability.

  • The group discusses the effects of Litany of Hatred, confirming it reduces both damage and peril thresholds for the opponent.

  • Michael: Mentions, “Minus one damage and peril.”

  • Luke: Confirms the reduction and states he has updated the character sheet.

  • Luke: Describes the opponent’s reaction, asking what vitriolic comment was made.

  • Michael: Declares that “she murdered mutants with her bare hands” and taunts the opponent.

  • Michael: Continues to insult, saying the opponent will be “ground into the mud” before Schaffenfest ends.

  • Brian: Adds that Nora has a “dead, drunken stare” and doesn’t seem to notice the opponent.

  • Michael: Calls out, “Nora, attack!”

  • Luke: Signals that it’s Nora’s turn.

  • Damian: Nora, hearing her name, asks for clarification and confirms this is a bare-handed fight.

  • Luke: Confirms and notes the drunken state might influence actions.

  • Damian: Agrees, mentioning Nora wouldn’t think to use a weapon due to her drunken state.

  • Luke: Reminds the players about the three action points.

  • Michael: Enthusiastically mentions Thindruk would act swiftly.

  • Damian: States Nora will use “Spirit of the Wolf” for an additional action point, totaling four.

  • Luke: Confirms the use of the ability.

  • Damian: Describes Nora’s proximity to the opponent and decides on a takedown.

  • Luke: Confirms it’s a coordination check.

  • Damian: Reads the rules for the takedown, confirming the opponent must resist with coordination.

  • Luke: Agrees and asks for the opponent’s coordination roll.

  • Damian: Attempts a takedown but fails due to a poor roll.

  • Luke: Describes the failed takedown, noting the mud caused Nora’s foot to get stuck.

  • Damian: Acknowledges the failure and notes one action point used.

  • Luke: Confirms and outlines the remaining action points and rules for actions.

  • Damian: Plans for Nora to swing barehanded.

  • Luke: Notes the opponent will try to parry.

  • Michael: Comments on the opponent’s parrying skill.

  • Luke: States the opponent successfully parries, using their last action point.

  • Damian: Decides to hold the last action point for defense.

  • Joe: Encourages Nora with a motivational speech.

  • Luke: Agrees that Nora gets a morale boost.

  • Luke: The opponent seems to be re-evaluating, showing a potential knee injury.

  • Luke: Describes a feint from the opponent, prompting a guile check.

  • Damian: Rolls a scrutinize check but critically fails.

  • Luke: Describes the opponent’s successful feint, leading to a bonus damage attack.

  • Damian: Declares a parry attempt.

  • Luke: Notes the successful parry.

  • Luke: The opponent attempts another regular attack as Nora has no action points left to defend.

  • Luke: Rolls for damage, resulting in significant harm to Nora.

  • Damian: Confirms the damage calculation, noting Nora is moderately wounded.

  • Luke: Describes the opponent’s headbutt, causing Nora to stumble back.

  • Michael: Considers using another litany but decides against it due to lack of training.

  • Michael: Cheers for Nora from the sidelines.

  • Damian: Asks if Nora stumbled back enough to charge.

  • Luke: Confirms she can charge.

  • Damian: Describes Nora using “Runamuck” ability for a plus 20% bonus.

  • Damian: Declares a takedown attempt with athletics, successfully executing it.

  • Luke: Confirms the opponent fails to resist, resulting in them being knocked prone.

  • Damian: Plans to attack the prone opponent, gaining a bonus Chaos die.

  • Luke: Describes the difficulty for the opponent to parry from the ground.

  • Luke: Opponent fails the parry.

  • Damian: Rolls for damage, using fortune points to increase the total damage to 27.

  • Luke: Describes Nora’s victorious moment, pummeling the opponent until the barker intervenes.

  • Joe: Kavitrae grabs Wanda’s arm, exclaiming “STUFF AND FIST!”

  • Luke: Concludes with the opponent, the Crusher, lying in the dirt, bloodied and defeated.

  • Luke (GM): Describes the character who has been fighting for his livelihood with a face that is lumpy, damaged from many punches, and cauliflower ears. The barker hauls Nora up to her feet and declares her as the victor, announcing to the crowd that the Crusher can be beaten. The barker then pulls Nora aside, expressing surprise that she beat the Crusher, and gives her four gold crowns.

  • Michael (Wanda): Checks the coins to make sure they are the correct amount. Wanda confirms that the coins amount to four crowns, which includes gold coins and shillings.

  • Damian (Nora): In her current state, Nora is not lucid and simply clutches the coins before sitting down and staring at her ball.

  • Luke (GM): Describes the barker still talking in the background and suggests talking to Nora in the morning when she is more coherent.

  • Michael (Wanda): Suggests it’s time for Nora to sleep.

  • Joe (Qavitrae): Notes that this marks the ending of the first day of Schaffenfest.

  • Luke (GM): Mentions that the Crusher also needs a break and will be back later. Discusses healing in the game and notes that Nora is moderately wounded but has no serious injury.

  • Luke (GM): Nora has a split skin above her eye and suggests that seeing a doctor would be beneficial.

  • Michael (Wanda): Agrees to find a doctor for Nora.

  • Luke (GM): Describes finding a tent with acolytes of Shalya, the goddess of mercy and healing, who are attending to those injured during the Schaffenfest.

  • Michael (Wanda): Recognizes the medical tent as a place for all the drunks to get treated.

  • Luke (GM): Notes that the acolytes will attend to Nora but ask for a small donation.

  • Damian (Nora): Nora, still not fully aware, would give away a gold crown if not stopped.

  • Robert (Thindruk): Offers a couple of silver shillings as a donation, which the acolytes accept happily. They clean Nora’s wounds and stitch the cut on her brow.

  • Michael (Wanda): Mentions they managed to stop Nora from giving away a gold crown.

  • Brian (Felrick): Laughs at the situation.

  • Luke (GM): As the day continues, the party finds a semicircular rope enclosure against the town wall, indicating Dr. Malthusius’ Zoopia.

  • Luke (GM): Describes signage for Dr. Malthusius’ Zoopia, an exotic animal exhibition with creatures from all corners of the world.

  • Michael (Wanda): Recognizes the area on the map.

  • Luke (GM): Describes the crowd gathering to see the exhibition. Decides to wrap up the session here.

  • Joe (Qavitrae): Expresses curiosity about what the exhibition will include.

  • Brian (Felrick): Echoes the curiosity.

  • Luke (GM): Confirms that Nora earned four gold coins.

  • Michael (Wanda): Clarifies that they took a moderate wound but earned four gold coins.

  • Brian (Felrick): Acknowledges the worth of the experience despite the wound.

  • Damian (Nora): States that the party lost their fortune.

  • Joe (Qavitrae): Remarks on Nora’s victory over the Crusher and anticipates the tales that will be told about the event.

  • Damian (Nora): Expresses satisfaction with the day’s events.

  • Joe (Qavitrae): Praises Nora’s fighting effectiveness.

  • Luke (GM): Reminds the players to adjust Nora’s armor back up to four.

  • Michael (Wanda): Reflects on the enjoyment of the Schaffenfest, noting the shift in the party’s focus from their mission to enjoying the festival.

  • Joe (Qavitrae): Comments on the lack of information found about the Order of the Purple Hand and suggests the festival is their main interest.

  • Damian (Nora): Highlights the party’s shift in focus as a positive change.

  • Joe (Qavitrae): Mentions Qavitrae’s progress in winning her wager with Thindruk.

  • Michael (Wanda): Brings up the fortune teller Nora needs to revisit, questioning if she will remember due to her current state.

  • Damian (Nora): Doubts Nora’s ability to recall the fortune teller visit due to her inebriated state.

  • Luke (GM): Asks Brian about his recollection of events.

  • Brian (Felrick): Remembers the events of the day with excitement, noting the commonality of parties taking the bait in the campaign.

  • Luke (GM): Reflects on the player’s past campaign decisions and their impact on the current game.

  • Michael (Wanda): Enjoys the unpredictability of the campaign and the series of unexpected events.

  • Brian (Felrick): Mentions a previous campaign where their party made different choices, leading to a separate adventure.

  • Luke (GM): Discusses past campaign events and the flexibility of the narrative.

  • Michael (Wanda): Compliments the GM’s world-building and narrative.

  • Brian (Felrick): Recalls having fun with past Schaffenfest activities.

  • Luke (GM): Appreciates the players leaning into the festival atmosphere.

  • Brian (Felrick): Expresses excitement about the festival living up to expectations.

  • Joe (Qavitrae): Mentions attempting to follow the plot threads despite poor dice rolls.

  • Michael (Wanda): Considers the prince’s plotline a dead end.

  • Brian (Felrick): Agrees and reflects on making the best of the situation.

  • Luke (GM): Encourages the players about the upcoming content and rolls for corruption.

  • Brian (Felrick): Reminds the group about the significant corruption checks.

  • Damian (Nora): Asks for a reminder on how to roll for corruption.

  • Luke (GM): Explains the process of rolling a D10 for corruption.

  • Brian (Felrick): Clarifies the mechanics of rolling over or under corruption.

  • Luke (GM): Notes that rolling over corruption is the goal.

  • Damian (Nora): Rolls and gains a chaos point.

  • Brian (Felrick): Also gains a chaos point.

  • Michael (Wanda): Comments on the mechanics of gaining chaos.

  • Robert (Thindruk): Successfully rolls over corruption, indicating a positive result.

  • Luke (GM): Explains how to reset corruption points and acknowledges Robert’s good roll.

  • The session starts with Luke mentioning that a character gains an order point.

  • Robert acknowledges this with a “Yes.”

  • Michael adds that both fields mentioned are winning fields and suggests that the goal is to max them both out.

  • Joe explains that one of the fields grants more fate points, while the other offers cool mutations and insanities.

  • Brian confirms Joe’s explanation with “That’s right.”

  • Luke agrees and mentions the possibility of gaining a subtle mutation that functions almost like a superpower, noting that such mutations do exist.

  • Brian responds affirmatively with a “Sure.”

  • Michael comments with “Ah, paranoia.”

  • Joe humorously suggests that a character could hide a third arm under a big cloak.

  • Luke agrees, adding that the third arm could wield a sword, effectively giving the character three swords.

  • Joe agrees, saying that it would be a bonus.

  • Michael shares a humorous anecdote about a webcomic he saw where a character’s third arm appears while bench-pressing, commenting “Nice gains, bro!”

  • Brian acknowledges the anecdote with “Yep.”

  • Michael then says “Alright, enjoy your… Yeah!”

  • Joe announces his departure, saying it was great to see everyone and wishing them a good day tomorrow.

  • Luke responds with “All right.”

  • Joe reiterates his farewell, saying “Enjoy your first enjoyable day tomorrow.”

  • Brian responds with “Yep.”

  • Luke agrees, saying “Yep,” and adds that it was a lot of fun.

  • Damian also agrees, saying “Yeah!”

  • Luke bids everyone good night.

  • Robert says “Night, everyone!”

  • Damian wishes everyone a good night, saying “Have a good night, guys.”

  • Brian echoes with “Yep.”

  • Michael concludes with “Yeah!”