Chat log started at 15.3.2010 / 18:42:16

Savage Worlds Ruleset for Fantasy Grounds II
(c) 2009 Pinnacle Entertainment Group.
[w] Dr. MacVellian: The lightbulb of evil amusement just turned on in my head
[w] -> Dr. MacVellian: Evil is always amusing. It is why I like being the GM.
What looks like half the Union army is camped on Chicago's borders, the walls bristle with cannons and steam Gatlings, the sky is a brown haze, and everywhere soul dead tinhorns shamble about their business.
Kazemi (Zach Dallas): what a lovely landscape
[w] Dr. MacVellian: Oh god, I just realized I can now use every bad Tremors quote!!
Uriel Iscariot: Lights a fine cigar. What a blessed day!
Dr. MacVellian: Nose stuck in a book. Doesn't even realize she's outside
Zach Dallas: shuffles cards
The enormous Union Blue headquarters looms over a bustling train depot. Soon you locate the so-called Hellstomme Express on the Union Blue railhead. Streamlined in brass and steel and equipped with a ghost rock boiler, the locomotive has a decidedly infernal look about it.
There’s a well-dressed black man on the platform consulting a gold watch — your employer, Dr. Elijah Bailey, brewer of linaments and tonics. He looks up as you approach, smiling at his new associates.
Dr. Elijah Bailey: Welcome, welcome indeed.
Zach Dallas: Glad to be here!
Uriel Iscariot: May the Lord Bless you Elijah!
Dr. MacVellian: Looks up at him, too awestruck to speak
Dr. Elijah Bailey: Thank you Preacher Iscariot.
Uriel Iscariot: Notice [1d6 = 4]
Tack (Uriel Iscariot): (other people introducing themselves)
Dr. Elijah Bailey: I am glad you were all able to make it here. Like I mentioned earlier in your interview, the pay will be $50 per day, and it will be about a week contract. From here to Dodge City where the Symposium is being held.
Dr. MacVellian: barely manages a nod
Uriel Iscariot: What you be reading there?
Dr. Elijah Bailey: (looks at watch) Umm...I'm not reading anything.
Uriel Iscariot: (that was a mistake ^^;)
Uriel Iscariot: Will you do me the pleasure of introducing the rest of my....associates?
Uriel Iscariot: (Looks a tad weery of tthe two standing by)
Zach Dallas: The name's Zach Dallas. Pleased to meet, you.
Uriel Iscariot: And you young lady?
Dr. Elijah Bailey: Her name is Doctor MacVellian, I'm asking her to help with my research. She seems a bit shy.
Dr. MacVellian: waves at him dismissively, too focused on Dr. Bailey
Kazemi (Zach Dallas): focused, eh?
Dr. Elijah Bailey: Now, not sure if you realize this, but the Grand Prize at the Symposium is a contract with Hellstromme industries. A very lucrative one. Now, part of the compeition is the train ride to Dodge City from Chicago.
Dr. Elijah Bailey: Given the hijinks that sometimes happen...well...protection is a must. Remember, the safety of my hardware is as important—if not moreso—than my own life!
Dr. Elijah Bailey: (looks at watch again)
Zach Dallas: I'm almost looking forward to it
Dr. Elijah Bailey: No wait...umm...my safety is paramount also, but protect the glassware.
Uriel Iscariot: Doctor, you sure have some wiley priorities there.
Dr. Elijah Bailey: Huh, what? Oh yes, umm...sometimes my mouth runs ahead of my brain good Preacher...
Dr. Elijah Bailey: (looks at watch again, brows furrow like he's trying to remember something)
Dr. Elijah Bailey: I can’t believe I nearly forgot! I’ve another appointment to keep...I must be brief. First, please locate a baggage porter and see that my equipment is properly stowed in the freight car. Second, I’ll need you to see to this.
Uriel Iscariot: Well I do say that these trains are great things for Man. Finally maybe the west will become civilized, and with that, I look forward to looking after your interests.
Dr. MacVellian: May...may I help you, Doctor?
Dr. Elijah Bailey: What...yes..yes Doctor.
Zach Dallas: raises eyebrow
Dr. Elijah Bailey: (hands MacVellian a sealed glass jar filled with a viscous brown substance)
Dr. Elijah Bailey: Apply it liberally to the main pistons under the steam engine. By liberally, I mean use it all, and spread it evenly. Whatever you do, don’t let anyone see you! When that’s done, amuse yourselves as you like, but remember the Express pulls out at high noon tomorrow. Don’t be late!
Dr. Elijah Bailey: That's my equipment.
Dr. Elijah Bailey: (points at three crates next to him)
Dr. Elijah Bailey: (runs off, quickly disappears into a crowd)
Uriel Iscariot: Hrm. What a quaint fellow he was...
Zach Dallas: Indeed
Dr. MacVellian: looks over at the pistons, trying to figure out how to do such a task w/o being seen
Zach Dallas: Well, let's grab someone to get these crates up
Zach Dallas: I'll leave the piston rubbing to the Doc
The railway station and the platform you are on is crowded with Union solders, Union Blue employees, a few members of the press, and a lot of busy people.
Zach Dallas: checks for a Baggage Porter
Zach Dallas: Notice [Trait roll was a natural 1] [1d6 = 10]
Dr. MacVellian: Notice {+2 Alertness} [1d6+2 = 5]
Uriel Iscariot: I can't help but notice, little lady, that Elijah wants you to do a Man's job. Here, allow me to lend a hand
GM: You quickly spot a baggage porter.
[w] Zach Dallas: I'm keeping an eye on the crates, too
Porter: Yes?
[w] -> Zach Dallas: Got it.
[w] Uriel Iscariot -> Dr. MacVellian: what stat you want, partner?
Zach Dallas: 'scuse me, can I get a hand getting these crates into the right spot?
Dr. MacVellian: No! Doctor Bailey gave me this job!! I intend on doing it
[w] Zach Dallas: should I make a notice for that, or will my 10 count?
[w] Dr. MacVellian -> Uriel Iscariot: Huh??
[w] Uriel Iscariot -> Dr. MacVellian: Ok. No stat for you. Come back one year.
Uriel Iscariot: Alright then. May the Lord Help Ye as thou helpest thyself!
[w] -> Zach Dallas: The 10 will work for as long as you are "keeping an eye on the crates."
[w] Zach Dallas: kk
Porter: Certainly, which crates do you need loaded? Are they all going on the Hellstromme Express?
Zach Dallas: Yes, right over here
Porter: (gestures for several other porters to help him)
They quickly load the crates on to one of the freight cars. Several Union Blue guards stand attentively nearby.
[w] Zach Dallas: I'd like to keep an eye on them until we leave or I'm forced to leave them
Zach Dallas: Hey, I'm going to keep an eye on the crates. You ladies have fun
[w] -> Zach Dallas: Okay, good plan
[w] Dr. MacVellian: trying to figure out a way to do the task w/o getting spotted
Dr. MacVellian: Smarts [1d12 = 8]
Uriel Iscariot: May the Lord Bless ye soldiers, that No Harm may come to you!
Zach Dallas: Well, I suppose Father Uriel has to be a man, else he wouldn't be a priest
Under Zach Dallas' attentive eyes, the porters quickly and securely stow the crates without any unnecessary bumping or manhandling.
Kazemi (Zach Dallas): excellent
GM: You pause to consider if maybe they should be getting a tip....
[w] -> Dr. MacVellian: Well, for one thing, you get the feeling that it will be impossible this time of day. Perhaps coming back at night would be better.
Zach Dallas: tips them each a buck
[w] Dr. MacVellian: That much is a given
Porter: Wow, thanks man.
Uriel Iscariot: Ask the soldiers where they are going off to
[w] -> Dr. MacVellian: Well, it looks like you could sneak in between the tender and the locomotive and crawl underneath the engine that way. That would get you to the main pistons easily.
Soldier: Nowhere preacher. We are watching this freight until our shift ends around 2200 tonight.
Soldier: Then a couple of us might wander over to McCullen's outfitters. Me personally, I am going to listen to Mass at the Church of the Traveller. Father Greene is the best darn cusser in Illinois.
Uriel Iscariot: Righty-O. Thanks for your time :)
Soldier: No problem preacher.
GM: Okay, so it is about 3PM, the train is not departing until noon tomorrow. Any specific requests?
GM: If you are looking for things of interest:
Shoppin’ and drinkin’ can both be done at McCullen’s Outfitters, which is only a short walk from the train depot. McCullen’s was always one of the largest establishments on the continent, but since the end of the war its size and amazing selection of products has only grown.
It has a restaurant, two saloons, hotel, giant department store, etc.
There is also the Chuch of the Traveller.
[w] Dr. MacVellian: Do I have a sack or something to carry the canister in? Plus, how big is it?
[w] -> Dr. MacVellian: You have a sack you can carry it in. It is about the size of a large canning jar.
[w] -> Dr. MacVellian: (Which is about a quart if you are not familiar with canning jar sizes)
Uriel Iscariot: Hrm.
Zach Dallas: Keeps watch on the crates, discretely
Dr. MacVellian: carefully puts the canister into my sack, then carrys it and my toolkit to the nearest library or museum
GM: That would be the Museum of the West, conveniently located in McCullen's Outfitters.
TADM: (I kid you not. It is written into the adventure.)
Uriel Iscariot: Zach, I am leaving for the evening. You seem responsible and trustworthy.
Uriel Iscariot: (lay hand on shoulder)
Uriel Iscariot: Faith [1d6 = 5]
Uriel Iscariot: (boost stat, agility)
Uriel Iscariot: Take care of this for us, young one
Uriel Iscariot: (heads off to a Saloon in McCullens)
[w] Zach Dallas: tell me when I need to refresh my Notice
[w] -> Zach Dallas: Okay.
For everyone going to McCullen's Outfitters, the place is huge, crowded, and hectic, even during midafternoon.
GM: Pretty much anything and everything could probably be found somewhere. You think...
Hotel Rooms are $2 a night. The fancy suites are $3.50 a night.
Uriel Iscariot: I'll follow Dr. MacVellian there, as it seems we are both headed there.
The saloons are the least busy part of the complex this time of day. Although you get the feeling that eventually it gets really busy around here.
The Museum of the West is not a very large exhibit, but pretty crowded. It has a large number of items from out west, Indian totems, a stuffed buffalo, a stuffed grizzly bear. Even a strange creature that looks like a large jackrabbit with antelope horns stuck on its head. The placard underneath it is labeled "Jackalope."
GM: A man with his wife and six children are clustered around the Jackalope, staring at it strangely.
Abe Hovey: No Lisa, it does not look real at all. I bet those horns were glued on.
GM: One of the kids snickers and points at it. A little girl says, "It looks cute, can I have one for a pet?"
Abe Hovey: No Jenny, you can't have one as a pet.
Abe Hovey: Now come on kids, we have a lot of packing to do before we leave tomorrow on the train. We are all going to Dodge City.
GM: The kids cheer and scamper off.
Uriel Iscariot: How Cute (said in passing)
Abe Hovey: (answers Uriel) Looks like a dangerous varmint to me. (runs off after kids)
Dr. MacVellian: Notice to see if the horns are glued on
Dr. MacVellian: Notice {+2 Alertness} [Trait roll was a natural 1] [1d6+2 = 5]
[w] -> Dr. MacVellian: If they are, it is the best grafting and gluing job you have EVER seen.
Uriel Iscariot: Tucks in his collar, puts his Fedora on.
Uriel Iscariot: Dr. MacVellian, I shall see thee anon, enjoy the eve.
By the time MacVellian and Iscariot are done wandering through the Museum, the crates are completely buried behind other freight. Zach also notices that it was a good thing he not only watched the porters, but tipped them also. Since they are not as gentle or careful with the equipment of those who do not watch them and tip them.
Porter: Whoops, that one crate is leaking something. Take it off the train and move it over to quarantine.
GM: He is not talking about one of Doctor Bailey's crates though
Kazemi (Zach Dallas): money well spent
Uriel Iscariot: I am headed over to that saloon if you want to know.
Uriel Iscariot: Persuasion [1d6 = 4]
Uriel Iscariot: Woudn't you want to get some food or a drink there?
Uriel Iscariot: Dr. MacVellian?
Dr. MacVellian: frowns
Kazemi (Zach Dallas): OH YOU BAD PRIEST
Tack (Uriel Iscariot): How?
Dr. MacVellian: I saved up just for this toolkit. I don't have any money for food until Dr. Bailey pays us
TADM: Hey little girl, want some candy?
Tack (Uriel Iscariot): Lol im trying to keep the party on the same page.
Uriel Iscariot: The body is a gift from the Lord! Thou must cherish and protect it. You must eat!
Dr. MacVellian: Oh, nevermind. But I think I'll get something a llittle more civilized. No telling what the quality of food on the train will be
Uriel Iscariot: Peace be with you.
Uriel Iscariot: (Walks off to the saloon) Its bussiness time!
GM: Who is entering the saloon?
Uriel Iscariot: I definetly am
Dr. MacVellian: headed to the restaurant
In the saloon:
You spot a ruggedly handsome man dressed as an African Safari Hunter, complete with strange British Pith hat. There are at least five saloon girls, and a couple more reputable looking woman near him. They are hanging on his every word.
Patton Riddle: So there I was, deep in the jungles, when I saw a large ferocious tiger...(makes snarling tiger face, the women all giggle.)
Zach Dallas: Heads into the saloon
Uriel Iscariot: Notice [1d6 = 4]
Uriel Iscariot: On Patton
Zach Dallas: Notice [1d6 = 7]
Zach Dallas: also on the very noticible Patton
Despite his somewhat foppish appearance, you get the feeling that he is not lying about his exploits. He actually has been to the places he is describing.
Patton Riddle: Then it came to me...a brilliant simple concept for rocket-propelled munitions. I was so caught up in the simplicity of my design that I barely had time to skewer the ferocious man-eating tiger before it bore me down. Really, killing tigers with my bare hands is such a bore...Barman...more beer!
Uriel Iscariot: Take a seat, Light a cigar, get some food. Blend into the woodwork.
Zach Dallas: Rocket-propelled munitions?
Patton Riddle: Yes good sir! And it was those very things that led me to second place in last year's symposium.
In the restaurant:
It seems that a number of inventors are sitting in the restaurant.
There is a man sitting in the corner, with three tough looking Asian bodyguards near him. He is tinkering with some sort of mechanical device between bites of prime rib.
In another area is a middle-aged woman with fiery red hair who is ordering food. She has a thick Irish accent and keeps pushing spectacles up on her nose.
Lastly, conversing with a group of Union Blue employees is a well-dressed man, it only takes a few sentences to pick out his New York accent.
There are plenty of tables to sit at, and a hostess comes up and asks you how many are in your party.
Dr. MacVellian: Just one, please. Sorry to inconvenience you
GM: She smiles and leads you to a nice table overlooking the main floor of McCullens, where you can watch hundreds of people moving about. The food here is expensive, but smells very good.
Dr. MacVellian: Orders something around $10, and a sarsaparilla
An expensive meal costs you about a $2. A sasparilla costs 25 cents.
Dr. MacVellian: Sorry $2
The food is delicious.
GM: No one bothers you, so if you do not wander over and talk to them, they leave you in peace.
GM: Although the Irish woman does smile nicely at you, but she seems to smile at everyone.
Dr. MacVellian: trys to detect if ghost rock has been used as a seasoning
Dr. MacVellian: Ghostrock Finding {+4 Nose for Rock,+2 Alertness} [1d6+6 = 17]
Ghost Rock has definitely NOT been used as a seasoning. In fact, you remember reading that any food mixed with Ghost Rock is generally considered unhealthy. Although some people claim Ghost Rock is an ingredient in some very effective medications.
GM: So it is sort of ambiguous, although the entire Ghost Rock industry is only about 10 years old.
Uriel Iscariot: If nothing is occuring in this Saloon, I would like to try another after paying for my stuff
Dr. MacVellian: Leaves a 50 cent tip, then leaves very full
GM: Fast Forwarding to about 9pm.
GM: The sun is down and it is now possible to get back to that whole "second order of business" that Dr. Elijah Bailey left for you.
GM: Although you can wait further if you want.
Uriel Iscariot: I do want to wait a bit in the Saloon
By 9pm the main store is rather quiet but the Saloons are bursting at the seams with hundreds of Union Blue employees, people fresh off the trains, railyard workers, and a myriad host of other people.
Dr. MacVellian: heads back to the station
GM: Eventually, Patton Riddle wanders off, a woman on each arm.
Tack (Uriel Iscariot): How far away is the station again?
[w] Dr. MacVellian: Wouldn't they move the train? I know it's a big express line in a big station, but it wouldn't make sense to waste a loading platform for a whole day
The station is less than half a mile from here. A glance outside reveals that tonight there is a full moon.
[w] -> Dr. MacVellian: Nope. For reasons of a political nature that you are not privvy too.
[w] -> Dr. MacVellian: Otherwise yes, they would move the train off the platform.
Uriel Iscariot: Aight. Ill stay in the Saloon until this Cigar runs out. (lights up fresh)
Uriel Iscariot: Notice [1d6 = 10]
Zach Dallas: Notice [Trait roll was a natural 1] [1d6 = 5]
Dr. MacVellian: Notice {+2 Alertness} [1d6+2 = 13]
Uriel:
The saloon is busy, you quickly segregate everyone into categories based on employment. A few tables of poker start up, as well as Faro. The crowd gets noisy and boisterous. One thing you pick out is that all the bouncers here are armed. They are also all Union soldiers.
Uriel Iscariot: I will wait for the first patron to pass out drunk, then take him away:
Uriel Iscariot: (after paying my tab+tip)
GM: Well, by 9:15pm you have your first contestant on the "falling down drunk" game.
Uriel Iscariot: "I will take care of this lost child. A moment please"
GM: The man's friends shrug and watch you warily.
Uriel Iscariot: Faith [1d6 = 9]
Uriel Iscariot: Healing
Uriel Iscariot: Lost Sheep of the Lord, Why do you drink so?
GM: The man stands upright, refreshed. He thanks Uriel profusely and tries to give him two bits for helping him see the error of his ways.
Uriel Iscariot: Persuasion [1d6 = 14]
Uriel Iscariot: Thou shalt not drink like this!
GM: Uriel then convinces the man to join the prohibition movement, give up his worldly possessions, and form a leper colony.
Random Bar Patron: HOLY SHIT! I don't want what that man was drinking!
Kazemi (Zach Dallas): AHAHAHAHAHA
Uriel Iscariot: Son, you do want what that man just drank, he drank the wine of life, the GOOD WORD!
Uriel Iscariot: (looks around)
Random Bar Patron: Wow, that sounds great. How about you head over to the Church of the Traveller and let me drink in peace?
Uriel Iscariot: Sure thing, Random Patron Man. I am here to do just that as well. :3
Random Bar Patron: Thanks named Player Character dude.
Uriel Iscariot: Try to get in a game and go unnoticed for a bit
Uriel Iscariot: Gambling [1d6 = 9]
Uriel manages to win about $3 in gambling in short order. The other people at the table grumble slightly about his incredible good fortune.
Uriel Iscariot: I should make my way to the hotel for the evening. What is the total charge at the saloon?
GM: The total for the night is $2.50 Uriel.
Uriel Iscariot: Sure. Ill pay the damn 2.00. I will be very attentive and say my prayers and a few rosaries before retitiring for the eve.
Zach:
There are tables playing both Faro and Poker. You could probably squeeze into any of them. It looks like the "high-stakes" game sits at $1 max bid. They look more like social games than competitive games.
Zach Dallas: I play for a good time, then
[w] Zach Dallas: is there anyone who takes my fancy while we're playing?
[w] Zach Dallas: I'm going to make myself break even, but I'm also going to give someone a bit of "luck" if they amuse me enough
[w] -> Zach Dallas: Nah, none of the inventors are around. The only other player who "takes your fancy" is a Southerner who is winning nicely. Not enough to make people angry, but enough that you get the idea he plays in non-casual settings.
[w] Zach Dallas: I'm going to get looking for our employer
Zach Dallas: Notice [1d4 = 2]
[w] -> Zach Dallas: He is nowhere to be seen. Especially with that roll.
[w] Zach Dallas: check the Hotel?
Zach Dallas: Notice [Trait roll was a natural 1] [1d6 = 17]
[w] Zach Dallas: thouroughly?
[w] -> Zach Dallas: Okay, well with THAT roll. You find out that he is not staying here. Evidently he has friends in town that he stays with.
[w] -> Zach Dallas: However, you are pretty certain that every other person traveling on the Hellstromme Express is staying at the hotel. There are plenty of interesting names on the list.
[w] Zach Dallas: any that catch my attention?
[w] Zach Dallas: also, if I see Uriel's name there I'm going to room with him
[w] -> Zach Dallas: Well, it seems that one of them is a Knighted member of the British Empire.
[w] Zach Dallas: oh, sweet. Name?
[w] Zach Dallas: or is he minor?
[w] -> Zach Dallas: Sir Clyde Reed Cannon
Tack (Uriel Iscariot): eh?
[w] Zach Dallas: while he's doing his rosaries, I'm going to use Hunch on him to check on his background a bit
Zach Dallas: Spellcasting [1d8 = 11]
[w] Uriel Iscariot -> Zach Dallas: Son, You best pray to the good lord before bed.
[w] Zach Dallas -> Uriel Iscariot: I'm praying with my cards, sir
[w] Zach Dallas -> Uriel Iscariot: I'm letting the Lord speak to me through the random placement
[w] Zach Dallas: do I learn anything about Tack?
[w] -> Zach Dallas: You see an image of him being ordained. Evidently he is a real preacher.
[w] Zach Dallas: any specifics?
[w] Zach Dallas: things I could use to creep him out?
Uriel Iscariot: What the hell is that Zach guy up to;
Uriel Iscariot: Kn Occult [1d6 = 4]
[w] -> Zach Dallas: Nothing that is recognizable to you.
Uriel Iscariot: Notice [Trait roll was a natural 1] [1d6 = 13]
[w] Zach Dallas: he's at -2
Uriel Iscariot: What in all creation are you doing there son?
Zach Dallas: I'm letting the Lord speak to me
Zach Dallas: describes the scene of your ordenation
Uriel Iscariot: Is it accurate?
Zach Dallas: Oh, yeah
[w] -> Uriel Iscariot: You suspect that he is doing some sort of fancy card trick, but you are not sure what. It is definitely not the Lord's Work. That's fer sure!
Uriel Iscariot: Aight son. You keep up with 'dem tricks. But don't you go on a'thinkin that I'm not aloof things :3
MacVellian:
After observing for a couple minutes, you spot the routine the guards are following. You are relatively certain that a good sprint (albeit quietly) will get you past them. The Conductor might be a bit more difficult to get past. From where he is standing, puffing on a cigar, you get the feeling that he is specifically guarding against people tinkering with the engine.
[w] Dr. MacVellian: Could I sneak under the coal car and crawl underneath to avoid his notice?
[w] -> Dr. MacVellian: Probably if you made some really good Stealth checks.
[w] Dr. MacVellian: Okay new plan
Dr. MacVellian: waits for the guards to be at my "safe points", then sprints for the train
GM: Stealth check for MacVellian
Dr. MacVellian: Agility [Trait roll was a natural 1] [1d6 = 2]
Dr. MacVellian is using a benny
Dr. MacVellian: Agility [1d6 = 4]
Dr. MacVellian has been awarded a benny
Dr. MacVellian: Stealth {--2 Untrained} [Trait roll was a natural 1] [1d6-2 = 0]
Dr. MacVellian is using a benny
Dr. MacVellian: Stealth {--2 Untrained} [1d4-2 = 1]
GM: MacVellian makes it to the train without any issues.
GM: Soldier, Veteran: Notice [1d8 = 6]
Dr. MacVellian: walks up to the Conductor, acting like I got lost while checking out the station
Dr. MacVellian: Kn Trains [1d6 = 3]
Dr. MacVellian is using a benny
Dr. MacVellian: Kn Trains [1d6 = 4]
Aristotle Lewis: Hello miss. This is the Hellstromme Express. Can I help you?
Dr. MacVellian: Hello sir. Are you the conductor for the Express? That must be an exciting job!
Aristotle Lewis: It is. This is one of the fastest locomotives in the country. Hellstromme does make a nice engine.
Aristotle Lewis: Although I have to admit, not many women are interested in the mechanics of train engines.
Dr. MacVellian: I've always been fascinated with trains. Mind if you show me around?
Kazemi (Zach Dallas): seduce him! seduce him!
Aristotle Lewis: Sorry, I'm on duty right now. See, Inventors on the way to the symposium take it upon themselves to "tinker" with the train and I cannot allow that to happen.
Aristotle Lewis: But I can call over the brakeman, Tung Li, and he can show you around the train.
Dr. MacVellian: Why do they tinker with it?
Aristotle Lewis: Oh, they "tinker" with it because it scores them points towards the final judging to see who wins the Hellstromme contract.
Dr. MacVellian: If it scores them points, why not just let them do it? Then, just have a skilled engineer on board to fix any problems in case in hinders the train?
Aristotle Lewis: Clearly you are not familiar with the process of Ghost Rock Inventors, their Infernal Devices, and their complete lack of safety. Just "letting them do it" will result in the deaths of everyone on board.
Dr. MacVellian: Oh. Yeah, that would be bad.
Aristotle Lewis: Glad you agree, now, would you like me to call Tung Li over to give you a tour? He's a nice Chinaman, English is understandable. Plus he is great at running along the roofs of cars while the train is under speed.
Tack (Uriel Iscariot): (BRB)
Dr. MacVellian: That would be wonderful! Thank you very much.
GM: He calls over the brakeman, who smiles at you and gestures for you to follow him.
Dr. MacVellian: follows
Tung Li shows you around the train, giving you a pretty good look at the interior of the cars, except for the tender, locomotive, and caboose. It is a really nice train, this is definitely nothing but first class accommodations all around.
Dr. MacVellian: Very impressive
[w] Dr. MacVellian: ...the best laid plans of mice and men
Tung Li: Thanks you ma'am.
Tung Li takes you back up to the locomotive, where the Conductor is still waiting. Then the Brakeman wanders off.
GM: By now it is almost 10:30 PM.
Aristotle Lewis: Well, hope you enjoyed the tour.
MacVellian hears the click of something metal jangling behind her. The Conductor's attention turns from her to the source of the noise.
Dr. MacVellian: turns around
Near the front of the train, in a long duster, with a floppy wide brimmed hat, is a woman. Even though the platform has some light, you cannot make out much of her features because of the darkness and her thick baggy clothing. One thing that does strike you as odd is a long, two inch wide streak of white hair that rolls from her left temple to halfway down her chest. It stands out from the rest of her raven black hair.
She walks over to the locomotive, and you get a better glimpse of her face. She has sparkling green eyes and chiseled marble features, but overall you (being a female PC) get a distinct feeling of physical inferiority just being near her.
Kazemi (Zach Dallas): as well you should
GM: This is further reinforced by the fact that the Conductor is staring at her with his mouth hanging open.
Tack (Uriel Iscariot): Better than being instantly "persuaded" into being her mindless servant. =)
Woman: You are Aristotle Lewis, conductor of the Hellstromme Express?
Aristotle Lewis: Duh...blah...duh...
Woman: Good, here is my ticket. I would like to be shown to my room.
Aristotle Lewis: Errr...ughh...gah blah gah
Woman: Please lead on.
Aristotle Lewis: Erf ugh nog...duh goo....(walks towards the back of the train)
Woman: Thank you. (follows him)
Dr. MacVellian: quickly darts under the train to do Dr. Bailey's task
Tack (Uriel Iscariot): Oh nice save!
It takes you a few seconds to find the main pistons. You open the large jar and look at the grease inside. It smells rather odd, but nothing seems that unusual about it.
GM: How are you going to apply the grease to the axle?
Dr. MacVellian: Crap. Well, since we're by the store and i can get a new sack (or something), I'll just tear/cut it into gloves and use them to rub it into the axle
GM: Okay, you perform some impromptu-under-railroad sewing and fashion a workable rag/glove with which to apply the grease.
Nick (Dr. MacVellian): If I only had some duct tape and a paperclip, I could make the train run on nuclear fusion!
Tack (Uriel Iscariot): that was last campaign
TADM: I think you might get fined a benny for that.
Tack (Uriel Iscariot): Then agian, I should go all Father Dowling on you to raise you an 80s Show. =)
It takes you about fifteen minutes to apply all the grease over the pistons and axles.
During that time, the Conductor wanders back...humming tunelessly and wandering around the locomotive in a seemingly random fashion.
Dr. MacVellian: crawls under the loco and coal car, then sneaks away
Nick (Dr. MacVellian): Do I escape? I'd like to burn the gloves somewhere, too. Call it an experiment
MacVellian is successful in escaping from the bottom of the train and makes her way back to McCullens. (Unless there is somewhere else she wants to go)
GM: The gloves do not burn. It seems whatever is in the grease is not-flammable.
Zach Dallas: It's all fun and games....
Zach Dallas: Solitaires a bit
Zach Dallas: Gambling [1d8 = 7]
Uriel Iscariot: ./sleep
Zach Dallas: then sleeps
Nick (Dr. MacVellian): Hmmm...interesting.
[w] Zach Dallas: am I guarenteed to see different things each time I use Hunch on someone?
Dr. MacVellian: I'll go to the hotel too. Need sleep.
[w] -> Zach Dallas: Nope.
[w] Zach Dallas: awww
[w] Zach Dallas: does sleep regenerate my 3 points?
[w] -> Zach Dallas: Yes
The night passes uneventfully. The sun comes up the next morning. Things look pretty normal around Chicago.
Uriel Iscariot: Aight son. Let's get to that Train!
Everyone wakes up by 7:30AM unless they normally rise earlier than that.
Uriel Iscariot: Prayers in the mornin!
Dr. MacVellian: rises a little earlier to go buy some stuff before we leave (since I have money)
GM: No problem, the main store is actually open 24x6. Closed on Sundays.
Nick (Dr. MacVellian): If anyone has a good suggestion for stuff to get (since I don't have the Deadlands books), let me know
Zach Dallas: grabs snacks
Uriel Iscariot: On Zach
Uriel Iscariot: Notice [1d6 = 3]
Zach Dallas: what?!
Zach Dallas: two can play at this gaem: Notice on Uriel
Zach Dallas: Notice [Trait roll was a natural 1] [1d6 = 3]
The clock gets close to noon. Everyone heads over to the paltform where the Hellstromme Express is waiting.
Uriel Iscariot: Notice [1d6 = 3]
Uriel Iscariot: Weather?
Zach Dallas: Notice [1d4 = 14]
Zach Dallas: checking the crowd
Zach Dallas: since Weather shouldn't even need a check
The platform is a riot of baggage porters, heaps of crates, and repeated camera flashes. Inventors are turned out in their best bibs and tuckers, most of them shooting their mouths off to reporters from the Tombstone Epitaph and Chicago Tribune.
[w] Dr. MacVellian: backpack, blanket, normal clothing x2
Picking through the crowd, you note a proper English gentleman in bowler and waistcoat, escorted by a trio of watchful Chinese men.
[w] -> Dr. MacVellian: That will be no problem to buy.
A robust, grinning man dressed in khaki with a hunter’s pith helmet loudly oversees the stowage of his gear, while reporters note every word and gesture.
A matronly woman with frizzy red hair and an Irish brogue demonstrates outlandish, buzzing headgear.
A mild-faced gentleman in a red plaid suit attempts to avoid a brace of reporters, a slim clockwork automaton clanking clumsily along at his side.
Three Union Blue repairmen make last-minute adjustments to the locomotive, one of them giving commands to the other two, before they all board the train.
Dr. Elijah Bailey: Oh very good, very good.
The Doctor smiles as he sees you.
Uriel Iscariot: Lets g'et aboard! Blessed Morning to you Elijah!
[w] Dr. MacVellian: actually, it is a problem, as i'm 5 short. Oh well, 3 sets of clothes should work for a while
Dr. Elijah Bailey: I trust your evening was pleasant? And you squared everything away without incident?
Dr. MacVellian: Yes...yes sir.
Uriel Iscariot: Verily.
Zach Dallas: Quite
Bailey turns and smiles at the precise moment that someone snaps a photograph of him.
Dr. Elijah Bailey: Let's get on board, shall we?
Dr. Elijah Bailey: (boards train)
Zach Dallas: jumps on afterward
Uriel Iscariot: Makes a sign of the cross before boarding
Dr. MacVellian: hops on board also
At exactly noon the conductor cries “All aboard!” and the engineer gives a long blast of the whistle. Moments later the locomotive begins to chug and the train lurches forward, slowly at first, but steadily gaining speed. Inside an hour the Express speeds across a flat landscape of wheat, corn, wheat, and more wheat.
Once everyone is settled, the Conductor enters the main cabin where the Inventors, bodyguards, and what looks like most of the passegers are gathered.
Aristotle Lewis: Greetings all, my name is Aristotle Lewis and I am the Conductor on the Hellstromme Express.
Zach Dallas: Notice [1d4 = 3]
Zach Dallas: on the people in the car:
Aristotle Lewis: Now, I know many of you are eager to reach the Dodge City Science Symposium, but there are a few things that you need to know.
Aristotle Lewis: First, this is my third year on this train, and I expect to live through it. So keep all your Infernal devices away from my engine.
Aristotle Lewis: Second, the Freight Cars, Locomotive, and Caboose are off-limits. Anyone caught loitering around them will be locked in the jail in the caboose.
Aristotle Lewis: Third, as a member of Union Blue railways, I would like to thank you for traveling with us, and if there is anything we can do to make this a better trip, short of violating the first two items, let me know.
In the passenger car with you are the following people: The Irishwoman, the Englishman with his three Chinese bodyguards, the Pith-Helmet Hunter guy.
[w] Uriel Iscariot: GM did my notice die get downgraded?
[w] -> Uriel Iscariot: Why would it be?
The well-dressed man from New York. A chubby man with a thick Southern accent.
[w] Uriel Iscariot: GM no reason, I musta misclicked it
Uriel Iscariot: Light a Cigar
A preacher (another one aside from Uriel), the family you saw in the museum yesterday (the husband, wife, and six kids)
The guy with the Southern accent who was playing cards in McCullen's last night.
Kazemi (Zach Dallas): does the passenger car have booths and tables?
Uriel Iscariot: Hey Preacher, What be thy Name?
GM: (Oh, and Elijah Bailey and you, since I didn't mention him.)
The train—known to just about everyone as the Hellstromme Express—consists of a Wasatch-manufactured locomotive and tender, followed by nine Union Blue cars: two passenger cars, a dining car, a lounge car, two sleeper cars, two freight cars, and a caboose (in that order).
Zach Dallas: practices menial card tricks
Zach Dallas: Agility [1d8 = 7]
GM: The little kids look highly amused by your cards tricks.
Dr. MacVellian: So, Dr. Bailey, what was that canister for, anyway?
Dr. MacVellian: (out of earshot of the conductor, of course)
Dr. Elijah Bailey: (smiles) All in good time my dear, all in good time.
Lottie Galloway: (the Irishwoman) Oh, the abominable smell of this place. All this dust must be unhealthy.
Sir Clyde Reed Cannon: It's a well-known fact that the only thing that doesn't kill Irish-people is Whiskey. Or cat-piss as I like to call it.
Lottie Galloway: Sorry, I couldn't hear you over the sound of oppressing native people because you can.
Zach Dallas: bumps Uriel
Father Jubel Croy: (looks at Uriel) Ah, a fellow man of the cloth, here to try and save these fools and their souls from the Infernal devices they pander to?
Father Jubel Croy: For these are wicked folk! They are in need of healing.
Zach Dallas: oh, this is going to get progressively worse...
Uriel Iscariot: Yes Indeed Father.
Conrad Judson: Spoken like a damned Yankee.
Uriel Iscariot: However, out here, just remember....A halo becomes a noose so very fast. =)
Uriel Iscariot: Watch yourself out here.
Sylvester Tate: Says the incompetent Southerner...what was your invention again? The idiot detector? Did it misfire when you pointed it at yourself?
Father Jubel Croy: Indeed good fellow preacher, but these people must see the error of their ways!
Another Inventor walks in, a midget-sized clockwork automaton walks next to him. The man is carrying a large suitcase that he clutches tightly. He sits down away from everyone else and stares out the window.
[w] Zach Dallas: notice check on Bailey's reaction. I think this might have something to do with his ointment
Zach Dallas: Notice [1d4 = 3]
Dr. MacVellian: Notice {+2 Alertness} [1d6+2 = 5]
[w] -> Zach Dallas: Doctor Bailey keeps looking down at his watch, like he is forgetting something.
Uriel Iscariot: Peace you two! (lookign at Conrad and Syvester). It don't take a very big person to carry a grudge.
Conrad Judson: Are you saying I'm fat? No one asked you into this conversation preacher-man!
Sylvester Tate: I don't think he's saying you're fat. I think the word "enormous" came to mind.
Conrad Judson: That's it Union boy, put up your dukes!
Uriel Iscariot: Listen son. Don't be a sensitive sissy. Im tellin you both to grow up and act like Men!
Zach Dallas: Are you guys sure you want to risk getting disqualified?
Sylvester Tate: How typical, a Southerner who only knows how to resort to violence.
Sylvester Tate: (opens book and begins reading, ignoring Conrad Judson's retort.)
Dr. Elijah Bailey: Umm...Zach. For the record, it is impossible to get disqualified. Even mortally injuring another entrant is fine as long as the device you do it with has merit. For that man...
Dr. Elijah Bailey: (gestures with his thumb to a man sitting in the back corner, holding a notebook and scribbling notes.)
Uriel Iscariot: Keep an eye on Conrad.
Dr. Elijah Bailey: He is the representative of Hellstromme Industries and is one of the judges of the competition.
The rep is a cryptic figure in black suit and top hat, prominent moustache impeccably waxed and curled, coolly observing from behind smoked-glass spectacles.
Conrad Judson: (blusters and stomps a lot, then sits back down)
Patton Riddle: All these open fields remind me of when I was hunting in the open savanna, south of Egypt.
Bogan: Anyone want to try their hand at a card game or two? Sure beats listening to inventors brag....
Zach Dallas: I'll take you up on that offer
Abe Hovey: Come on kids, let's go find the sleeper cars and get things unpacked.
Sylvester Tate: Sure, I'll play a hand or two of cards.
Patton Riddle: Yes, there I was, in the open field, when I saw a herd of elephants...
Uriel Iscariot: To Mr. Tate:Never approach a bull from the front, a horse from the rear or a fool from any direction.
Uriel Iscariot: Take it easy with folks.
Lottie Galloway: The poor air quality on this train is revolting. To say nothing of the strange smells...
Uriel Iscariot: ./join card game
Sir Clyde Reed Cannon: Well, play cards or listen to the Irish woman whine and the Great White Hunter over there brag. Hmm...deal me in.
Dr. Elijah Bailey: (looks at watch and smiles)
[w] Zach Dallas: I'm going to pull up my kerchief to cover my mouth. Helps hide my face AND it works as a way to purify the air a bit
Zach Dallas: pulls kerchief over mouth
Zach Dallas: Gambling [Trait roll was a natural 1] [1d6 = 2]
Dr. Elijah Bailey: This train seems to be lacking in velocity. Perhaps it could use some axle grease.
Zach Dallas: Assuming that wouldn't instantly derail us, since the rails are only made to keep trains on tack at certain speeds
A few seconds pass. Some travelers look about in confusion. Other scientists in the car seem interested, but they strain to appear aloof. Suddenly there’s a surge of speed that momentarily presses everyone back into their seats.
Zach Dallas: that'd be great
Uriel Iscariot: Curses! this speed is going to give me the backdoor trots!
Patton Riddle: (snorts) How silly. Why would I waste my time on a simple locomotive when there’s a contest to be won?
Sir Clyde Reed Cannon: Ha, well I added a series of Magnetic Coils to the wheel assemblies to increase stability and speed!
Zach Dallas: Stability was a good thing, speed not necesarily so
Lottie Galloway: Well at least I did something useful. (Claps her hands) Everyone breathe easier, for the new air filtration system has been installed. (smiles widely)
Kazemi (Zach Dallas): I swear, if the air turns poisoned....
Sylvester Tate: Here...uh...deal me in. Oh, and I added a Cyclonic Projector to the Engine, which should increase steam pressure by a factor of ten, and therefore lead to better speed and efficency.
Conrad Judson: Don't you all realize that tampering with the engine is illegal! Morons!
Zach Dallas: Uh...
Zach Dallas: Do you realize that massive pressure causes EXPLOSIONS?
Father Jubel Croy: You fools! Your tinkering with devil devices has damned us all!
Uriel Iscariot: These Persnickity Crazies are going to make us all cash in our chips!
Bogan: Right, I'll take 10:1 odds that we don't survive another 30 minutes. Any takers?
GM: Okay, XP has been awarded and bennies are reset.
GM: Tune in next week for "The Inventor's Mad Dash!"
Campaign saved.