https://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-7835e-157aa9a
Descend with me once more into the ShadowDark, this time with a brand new party, after the previous one so carelessly died. Will Ines and Larbrun fare any better? Magic eightball says not likely…
TLA Special 1: ShadowDark
Posted in podcast, The Lone Adventurer on February 3, 2024 by Carlhttps://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-me8bg-156d7e5
Hello and welcome to The Lone Adventurer, an actual play solo RPG podcast with me, Carl White.
I will be your narrator, your Game Master and your guide as we follow our heroes on their journey into the unknown. For this game I will be using the ShadowDark ruleset, along with a variety of other systems, tools and tables, as they take my fancy.
A word of warning; the following scenes will contain disturbing imagery, ghastly horror, and lots of swearing, screaming and murder. Listeners of a delicate disposition, I beg you, turn away now.
Once you descend into the ShadowDark, there is no turning back.
ShadowDark: SoloDark Playtest Session 1:
Posted in Uncategorized with tags Solo on January 31, 2024 by CarlTrapped in the Sewer of Lost Souls
Having fallen in love with the old school sensibilities and streamlined modern design elegance of Shadowdark, I was lucky enough to stumble upon the very active SoloDark discussion taking place on The Arcane Library’s Discord server (SoloDark, I’m sure I don’t need to explain, is a planned set of solo rules for Shadowdark).
As part of those discussions, Kelsey had released a very early WIP draft for playtesting, so I grabbed what was there, supplemented with Maze Rats and Perilous Wilds, and dove in.
Session 1 Report
I kick off by rolling up 2 Characters on ShadowDarklings, the amazing ShadowDark online character generator;
- Gelar, a dumb elven fighter who’s strong as an ox
- Mared, a quick fingered and quick-tongued thief who’s not quite as smart as he thinks he is
Each get 1 Luck Token. A note about Luck; PCs start with a Luck token, but at present there’s no Luck refresh mechanism. I decide to houserule that I get one for rolling a critical failure. Offsetting the disaster a little, and representing learning from the school of hard knocks.
As there’s no Secret or Prompt table yet in SD to establish character motivations, I use the Maze Rats NPC Goals table:
- Gelar yearns to destroy an item. I decide that because his background is Redeemer, it’s linked to whatever brought the name of his kin into disrepute.
- Mared wants to sabotage a faction (the city guard). His background is orphaned, so I decide his come up on the streets, and wants to get his own back for one too many shoeings.
Next I Set the Stage. As there’s no Twist table yet in the SoloDark draft to set up my opening situation, I decide to pose a few questions.
- Who set my characters on this path? I use Maze Rats tables to determine that they were hired by one Orlan Bobich, a shady character who’s calling in a debt. He’s skinny, and bears a brand mark of the Last Word, the local Thieves’ Guild.
- What did Orlan hire my bold pair to do for him? The ShadowDark adventure generator (pg 122) gives me Imprison the Vampire in the Thieves’ Guild. Well, how’s that for a coincidence.
- Why did he hire them? A roll on the Maze Rats NPC Goal table gives me Craft Item: Crown. Hmm. Maybe the vampire is the Guild boss, and Orlan needs them trapped while he creates something that will mess with them.
- And finally How: the ShadowDark Rumours table gives me The Red Owl Tavern has a trapdoor to the ShadowDark.
OK, I think I have enough to set my stage.
I should have known this caper would go tits up the moment Orlan pitched it. Follow a badly scrawled map down into the city sewers? Place a bunch of arcane wards in various locations, for a somewhat ambiguous purpose? What could possibly go wrong?
Where Orlan’s involved, pretty much everything, it turns out. Frankly it should have been obvious from the fact he was sending me and Gelar down there alone; he had something urgent he had to take care of, apparently.
What the lowlife little shit had failed to mention was that we weren’t warding against rats, or carrion crawlers, or effluent oozes. We were warding against a frigging VAMPIRE. And not just any vampire; this particular undead murder machine also happened to be Bianca LaMarque, undisputed crime boss of Briginmar, and top of every sane person’s list of people you absolutely do not fuck with.
Not that we learned any of this until it was too late, of course. By the time it became apparent just how deeply Orlan had screwed us, we had one furious, immortal crime lord caged in their sewer lair, two lost and terrified contractors (that would be us), minus one map and down to our last few soggy torches, and half the Last Word Thieves’ Guild down here with us. Who, it turns out, are were-rats. Who knew.
I figured I’d throw the were-rat thing in there. If solo RPG principle 1 is “start them off in deep shit”, principle 2 is “If in doubt, make things worse”.
Next we need some dungeon to crawl in. In the absence of SoloDark tables yet, Perilous Wilds is a great stand-in. Here’s my City Sewers:
Name: The Sewer of Lost Souls
Size: Small
Areas: 9
Themes 2 (darkness/ death, unspeakable horrors)
Form: sewer
Situation: below ground
Accessibility: purposely hidden
Builder: human society
Function: sanitation/ concealment
Cause of Ruin: overrun by monsters
Common areas
1-2 Three way intersection
3-4 Endless sewer tunnels
5-6 Active inlet pipes
7-8 River of shit
9-10 Heavy iron grating
11-12 Rusting gantry
Unique areas
1-5 Pumping Station
6-10 The Pit
11-12 LaMarque’s lair
TLAS3 Chapter 6 Activated
Posted in podcast, The Lone Adventurer on June 29, 2023 by Carlhttps://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-sjq4y-1445fe9
The Doomspire’s machine intelligence has merged with Mina’s protector, Barbican, and the newly combined entity now poses a grave threat. But is Mina the only one at risk? And what, if anything, remains of Barbican?
Transcript:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/18DbZPOsQnYnQIUc-UqQMGCMJ0iI5LzZowDr1dtM-QyU/edit?usp=sharing
All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ and Slipstream https://slip.stream/
Twitter @TheLoneAdv
Email TheLoneAdv@gmail.com
Podbean https://theloneadventurer.podbean.com/
Blog https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/
Ironsworn: Starforged: https://www.ironswornrpg.com/product-ironsworn-starforged
Perchance TLA Random event Oracle: https://perchance.org/tla-randomevent
Mechanics
Doomspire Oracle Arrays
Exploring the Doomspire
- 1-2 Mechanical Feature
- 2-5 Vault Feature
- 6 Consult the Perchance oracle
Trouble in the Doomspire
- 1 Pay the Price
- 2-3 Mechanical Peril
- 4-5 Vault Interior Peril
- 6 Story complication
Opportunity in the Doomspire
- 1-2 Vault Interior Opportunity
- 3-4 Mechanical opportunity
- 5 Character
- 6 Story Clue
[Begin a Session] Flashback reveals an aspect of your background or nature
What is revealed? [Perchance Oracle] The event relates to a Mythic 2 Action and theme: Waste Personal
Clock: Rex in Pursuit
- Chapter 5: Does the clock advance? No
- Chapter 6: Does the clock advance? Yes (⅙)
Combat bot asset removed:
Instead Barbican is now an NPC, rank Formidable.
Secure an Advantage
When you assess a situation, make preparations, or attempt to gain leverage, envision your action and roll. If you act…
With resolve, command, or sociability: Roll +heart
[Miss: 2 + 2 + 0 = 4 vs 8 | 4] Burn Momentum
[Weak Hit: 2 + 2 + 0 = 5 vs 8 | 4]
On a hit, you succeed. On a strong hit, take both. On a weak hit, choose one.
Take +2 momentum
Add +1 on your next move (not a progress move)
Compel
When you try to persuade someone or make them an offer, envision your approach. If you…
Charm, pacify, encourage, or barter: Roll +heart
[Weak Hit: 1 + 2 + 0 = 3 vs 10 | 1]
On a weak hit, as above, but their agreement comes with a demand or complication. Envision their counteroffer.
Make a Connection
When you search out a new relationship or give focus to an existing relationship (not an ally or companion), roll +heart.
[Weak Hit: 6 + 2 + 1 = 9 vs 10 | 2]
On a strong hit, you create a connection. Give them a role and rank. Whenever your connection aids you on a move closely associated with their role, add +1 and take +1 momentum on a hit.
On a weak hit, as above, but this connection comes with a complication or cost. Envision what they reveal or demand.
Story Complication: Enemy reveals true agenda or nature.
The event relates to a Mythic 2 Action and theme: Trust Tension
Bing prompt: Genre: magitech. Mina Montisario is on a mission to stop a fleet of Dominion skyships from bombing the League of Free States. On route she has stopped at an ancient tower, the Doomspire, that appears to be part of some incredibly powerful weapons network. The network has long been dormant, but this tower seems to be active. During her exploration of the tower her faithful robotic companion, Barbican, has been blended with a hostile machine intelligence of the Doomspire. A fragile truce now exists between them, while the Doomspire-Barbican hybrid assesses her threat level and decides whether or not to eliminate her. But that truce comes at a cost; the hybrid reveals it’s true agenda or nature, which relates to the prompt words trust and tension. Describe what that agenda or nature is, and why it is a problem for Mina.
Finish an Expedition
When your expedition comes to an end, roll the challenge dice and compare to your progress.
[Progress Roll: Uncover the mystery of the Doomspire :Miss = 2 vs 5 | 8]
On a miss, your destination is lost to you, or you come to understand the true nature or cost of the expedition. Envision what happens and choose one.
Abandon the expedition: Envision the cost of this setback and Pay the Price.
TLAS3 Chapter 5 Avatar
Posted in podcast, The Lone Adventurer on June 16, 2023 by Carlhttps://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-ur42w-14358b9
The party come across a useful location within the Doomspire, and Mina makes a daring decision. It is a decision that may lead her to the answers they seek, but that also risks bringing down catastrophe upon them…
Links
Transcript:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1M2mILrKd3QW5CHAbpAFtrZCgsf7ChfVipfHTklhIivE/edit?usp=sharing
All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ and Slipstream https://slip.stream/
Twitter @TheLoneAdv
Email TheLoneAdv@gmail.com
Podbean https://theloneadventurer.podbean.com/
Blog https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/
Ironsworn: Starforged: https://www.ironswornrpg.com/product-ironsworn-starforged
Perchance TLA Random event Oracle: https://perchance.org/tla-randomevent
Mechanics
Doomspire Oracle Arrays
Exploring the Doomspire
- 1-2 Mechanical Feature
- 2-5 Vault Feature
- 6 Consult the Perchance oracle
Trouble in the Doomspire
- 1 Pay the Price
- 2-3 Mechanical Peril
- 4-5 Vault Interior Peril
- 6 Story complication
Opportunity in the Doomspire
- 1-2 Vault Interior Opportunity
- 3-4 Mechanical opportunity
- 5 Character
- 6 Story Clue
[Begin a Session: Unforeseen aid is on the way or within reach] A clue to a lifeform’s nature or vulnerabilities
Skysquid? [Ask the Oracle: Yes]
Does the tower hold this information? [Ask the Oracle: Yes]
Undertake an Expedition
When you trailblaze a route through perilous space, journey over hazardous terrain, or survey a mysterious site, give the expedition a name and rank. Then, for each segment of the expedition, envision your approach. If you…
Keep under the radar: Roll +shadow
[Miss: 4+2+0=6 vs 9 | 8]
Burn Momentum (10)
[Strong Hit: 4 + 2 + 0 = 10 vs 9 | 8]
On a strong hit, you reach a waypoint. Envision the location and mark progress per the rank of the expedition.
Exploring the Doomspire: 1: Mechanical Feature: 36 machine fabrication or repair
Is the technology similar to that of the Great machine? [Ask the oracle: yes]
Gather Information
When you search for clues, conduct an investigation, analyze evidence, or do research, roll +wits.
[Gearhead: When you make a move to craft, repair, repurpose, or modify equipment or technology, add +1 and take +1 momentum on a hit.]
[Weak Hit: 5 + 3 + 1 = 9 vs 10 | 5]
On a weak hit, the information provides new insight, but also complicates your quest. Envision what you discover. Then, take +1 momentum. (4)
Arrive Survival – The Sky Squid can be summoned and controlled. But the information about the Tower’s purpose is out of reach, too dangerous to access directly.
Secure an Advantage
When you assess a situation, make preparations, or attempt to gain leverage, envision your action and roll.
Create a map
If you act…
With expertise, focus, or observation: Roll +wits
[Weak Hit: 1 + 3 + 0 = 4 vs 2 | 8]
On a hit, you succeed. On a strong hit, take both.
Take +2 momentum (6)
Add +1 on your next move (not a progress move)
Undertake an Expedition
When you trailblaze a route through perilous space, journey over hazardous terrain, or survey a mysterious site, give the expedition a name and rank. Then, for each segment of the expedition, envision your approach. If you…
Stay vigilant: Roll +wits
[Weak Hit: 4 + 3 + 1 = 8 vs 10 | 6]
On a strong hit, you reach a waypoint. Envision the location and mark progress per the rank of the expedition.
On a weak hit, as above, but this progress costs you. Choose one.
Suffer costs en route: Make a suffer move (-2), or two suffer moves (-1).
Face a peril at the waypoint: Envision what you encounter. *
Exploring the Doomspire: 1: Mechanical Feature: 80: Mechanical environment in motion or transforming
Trouble in the Doomspire: 1: [Pay the Price: An individual or community you care about is exposed to danger]
Cadmus? [Ask the Oracle: No] Barbican is being transformed also
Companion Takes a Hit
When your companion faces physical hardship, they suffer -1 health for minor harm, -2 for serious harm, or -3 for major harm. If your companion’s health is 0, Lose Momentum equal to any remaining harm.
Then, if their health is 0 or you choose to test their resilience, roll +your companion’s health.
[Weak Hit: 5 + 3 + 0 = 8 vs 10 | 1]
On a weak hit, if your companion’s health is not 0, you may Lose Momentum (-1) and give them +1 health. Otherwise, they press on. (Momentum 5, Barbican health 4/5)
Face Danger
When you attempt something risky or react to an imminent threat, envision your action and roll. If you act…
With expertise, focus, or observation: Roll +wits
Gearhead: When you make a move to craft, repair, repurpose, or modify equipment or technology, add +1 and take +1 momentum on a hit.
[Weak Hit: 1 + 3 + 1 = 5 vs 1 | 9]
On a weak hit, you succeed, but not without a cost. Make a suffer move (-1).
Endure Stress
When you face mental strain, shock, or despair, suffer -1 spirit for minor stress, -2 for serious stress, or -3 for major stress. If your spirit is 0, Lose Momentum equal to any remaining stress.
Then, if your spirit is 0 or you choose to resist the stress, roll +spirit or +heart, whichever is higher.
[Weak Hit: 4 + 3 + 0 = 7 vs 7 | 6]
On a weak hit, if you are not shaken, you may Lose Momentum (-1) in exchange for +1 spirit. Otherwise, press on.
(Spirit 3)
Barbican becomes a gestalt entity, part Mina’s magical construct, part repository of a fragment of the Doomspire’s intellect.
Is Doomspire-Barbican hostile? [Ask the Oracle: Yes]
TLAS3 Chapter 4 Descent into Darkness
Posted in podcast, The Lone Adventurer on May 31, 2023 by Carlhttps://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-wju2d-14209fa
The crew of the Dead Reckoning face death by SkySquid. And should they survive that peril, an even more ominous threat awaits; the dark interior of the Doomspire.
Links
Transcript:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fTPrz_y4iogQMs12PdeQ6kHon3113ysjwpOCEHTvExY/edit?usp=sharing
All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ and Slipstream https://slip.stream/
Twitter @TheLoneAdv
Email TheLoneAdv@gmail.com
Podbean https://theloneadventurer.podbean.com/
Blog https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/
Ironsworn: Starforged: https://www.ironswornrpg.com/product-ironsworn-starforged
Perchance TLA Random event Oracle: https://perchance.org/tla-randomevent
Mechanics
React Under Fire: When you are in a bad spot and take action in a fight to avoid danger or overcome an obstacle, envision your approach and roll. If you are…
In pursuit, fleeing, dodging, getting back into position, or taking cover: Roll +edge
Remaining stalwart against fear or temptation: Roll +heart
Blocking or diverting with force, or taking the hit: Roll +iron
Moving into hiding or creating a distraction: Roll +shadow
Changing the plan, finding a way out, or cleverly bypassing an obstacle: Roll +wits*
With Wits [Weak Hit: 2 + 3 + 0 = 5 vs 4 | 6] (extend the shields)
On a weak hit, you avoid the worst of the danger or overcome the obstacle, but not without a cost. Make a suffer move (-1). You stay in a bad spot. (hull under pressure and all three squid close in)
Withstand Damage: When your vehicle faces a damaging situation or environment, suffer -1 integrity for minor damage, -2 for serious damage, or -3 for major damage. If your integrity is 0, Lose Momentum equal to any remaining damage.
Then, if your integrity is 0 or you choose to resist the damage, roll +integrity.
[Strong Hit: 5 + 5 + 1 = 10 vs 2 | 9] Shields repel damage
On a strong hit, choose one.
Bypass: If your vehicle is not battered, take +1 integrity*
Ride it out: Take +1 momentum
Clash: When you are in a bad spot and fight back against a foe at close quarters, roll +iron*; when you exchange fire at a distance, roll +edge.
[Strong Hit: 5 + 1 + 0 = 6 vs 5 | 3]
On a strong hit, mark progress twice. You overwhelm your foe and are in control. (approach vents, charge shields with arcanicity, zap!)
Gain Ground: When you are in control and take action in a fight to reinforce your position or move toward an objective, envision your approach and roll. If you are…
In pursuit, fleeing, or maneuvering: Roll +edge*
[Weak Hit: 5 + 1 + 0 = 6 vs 5 | 8]
On a hit, you stay in control. On a weak hit, choose one.
Mark progress* (8 progress)
Take +2 momentum
Add +1 on your next move (not a progress move)
(Into vents: ironside Doomspire)
Take Decisive Action: When you seize an objective in a fight, envision how you take decisive action. Then, roll the challenge dice and compare to your progress.
If you are in control, check the result as normal. If you are in a bad spot, count a strong hit without a match as a weak hit, and a weak hit as a miss.
[Progress Roll: Escaping the Skysquid: Strong Hit = 8 vs 4 | 3] 9 momentum
On a strong hit, you prevail. Take +1 momentum.
Escaping the Sky Squid complete
Journey to Conflict: one box filled (3/10)
Vow: 2 ticks on Disrupt Armada at Conflict (.5/10)
Technomancy
When you immerse yourself in arcane technology, roll +wits.
[Weak Hit: 3 + 3 + 0 = 6 vs 2 | 10]
Strong hit : Add the value of the action die to your arcanicity track. You may Secure an Advantage or Face danger +arcanicity to create minor magitech effects. If you do, suffer -1 arcanicity, and take +1 momentum on a hit.
Weak Hit: as above, but it’s exhausting. Endure Stress (2 Stress).
Endure Stress
Suffer: Ironsworn: Starforged Rulebook (pg. 202)
keyboard_arrow_down
When you face mental strain, shock, or despair, suffer -1 spirit for minor stress, -2 for serious stress, or -3 for major stress. If your spirit is 0, Lose Momentum equal to any remaining stress.
Then, if your spirit is 0 or you choose to resist the stress, roll +spirit or +heart, whichever is higher.
[Strong Hit: 6 + 3 + 0 = 9 vs 8 | 4] +1 Spirit (4)
On a strong hit, choose one.
Shake it off: If you are not shaken, take +1 spirit
Embrace the darkness: Take +1 momentum
Secure an Advantage
Adventure: Ironsworn: Starforged Rulebook (pg. 148)
keyboard_arrow_down
When you assess a situation, make preparations, or attempt to gain leverage, envision your action and roll. If you act…
With expertise, focus, or observation: Roll +wits
[Strong Hit: 5 + 3 + 0 = 8 vs 5 | 1]
On a hit, you succeed. On a strong hit, take both. On a weak hit, choose one.
Take +2 momentum
Add +1 on your next move (not a progress move) *
Infiltrator: When you make a move to break into a secure site, infiltrate a protected area, or hack or manipulate a secure system, add +1 and take +1 momentum on a hit. On a strong hit with a match, access is easier than expected; take another +1 momentum.
Undertake an Expedition
Exploration: Ironsworn: Starforged Rulebook (pg. 169)
keyboard_arrow_down
When you trailblaze a route through perilous space, journey over hazardous terrain, or survey a mysterious site, give the expedition a name and rank. Then, for each segment of the expedition, envision your approach. If you…
Keep under the radar: Roll +shadow
[Weak Hit: 5 + 2 + 2 = 9 vs 10 | 7]
On a strong hit, you reach a waypoint. Envision the location and mark progress per the rank of the expedition (1 box)
On a weak hit, as above, but this progress costs you. Choose one.
Suffer costs en route: Make a suffer move (-2), or two suffer moves (-1).
Face a peril at the waypoint: Envision what you encounter.*
Vault Waypoint:
First Look: Excessive heat, Signs of invasive lifeforms
Feature: Looted or empty containers
Peril: Toxic atmosphere, Rivals seek what lay within
Doomspire Oracle Arrays
Exploring the Doomspire
- 1-2 Mechanical Feature
- 2-5 Vault Feature
- 6 Consult the Perchance oracle
Trouble in the Doomspire
- 1 Pay the Price
- 2-3 Mechanical Peril
- 4-5 Vault Peril
- 6 Story complication
Post-credit scene:
- The event relates to a New NPC
- They are Bold, Fast and Determined
- Their CANOE profile is:
- Conscientiousness: 4
- Agreeableness: 3
- Neuroticism: 1
- Openness: 1
- Extraversion: 1
- If required, here’s a Starforged Action and Theme: Transform Rival (assimilate)
- And here’s a Starforged Descriptor and Focus: Damaged Creation (emotionally broken assassin)
Spends time preparing
Finishes important tasks right away
Pays attention to detail
Enjoys having a set schedule
Emotionally stable
Deals well with stress
Rarely feels sad or depressed
Doesn’t worry much
Is very relaxed
Dislikes Change
Does not enjoy new things
Resists new ideas
Not very imaginative
Dislikes abstract or theoretical concepts
Prefers solitude
Feels exhausted when having to socialize a lot
Finds it difficult to start conversations
Dislikes making small talk
Carefully thinks things through before speaking
Dislikes being the center of attention
Faction: House Montisario
Is Alexis revealed to be a shapeshifter? 77 (no)
TLAS3 Chapter 3 The Doomspire
Posted in podcast, The Lone Adventurer on May 17, 2023 by Carlhttps://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-cd739-140eafa
The crew of the Dead Reckoning navigate the perils of the Void Sea, finding refuge but also a profound and possibly deadly mystery. That mystery, however, must wait; Mina, Cadmus and Barbican have a far more immediate threat to deal with.
Links
Transcript: https://docs.google.com/document/d/1C6nWp8jjIFCv-GollpiWTMpWMFwrm0GGnQ3qk7QaPWE/edit?usp=sharing
All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ and Slipstream https://slip.stream/
Twitter @TheLoneAdv
Email TheLoneAdv@gmail.com
Podbean https://theloneadventurer.podbean.com/
Blog https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/
Ironsworn: Starforged: https://www.ironswornrpg.com/product-ironsworn-starforged
Perchance TLA Random event Oracle: https://perchance.org/tla-randomevent
Google Docs Voice Typing commands: https://support.google.com/docs/answer/4492226?hl=en#zippy=%2Cadd-punctuation%2Cselect-text%2Cformat-your-document
Lady Blackbird: chrome-extension://efaidnbmnnnibpcajpcglclefindmkaj/https://ladyblackbird.org/downloads/lady_blackbird.pdf
Mechanics
Begin a session: peril lies ahead, or lurks just out of view
Auto-oracle: The event relates to a Starforged Descriptor and Focus: Exposed Relic
Bing Prompt: Genre; magitech. Interpret this prompt for a remote event, in the context of an intrigue-heavy adventure, in which skyships travel across the Void Sea: Exposed Relic. The answer has something to do with a peril that lies ahead, or lurks just out of view.
Bing response: A massive metal structure rises from the mist. It is a doomspire, a colossal weapon of war that could shoot beams of pure energy and destroy entire fleets. doomspires are ancient, and supposedly long-dormant, but this one seems to be active.
Secure an Advantage: When you assess a situation, make preparations, or attempt to gain leverage, envision your action and roll. If you act…
With expertise, focus, or observation: Roll +wits
[Weak Hit: 6 + 3 + 0 = 9 vs 5 | 9]
On a hit, you succeed. On a weak hit, choose one.
Take +2 momentum
Add +1 on your next move (not a progress move)
Undertake an Expedition: When you trailblaze a route through perilous space, journey over hazardous terrain, or survey a mysterious site, give the expedition a name and rank. Then, for each segment of the expedition, envision your approach. If you…
Stay vigilant: Roll +wits
[Weak Hit: 4 + 3 + 0 = 7 vs 7 | 4]
On a strong hit, you reach a waypoint. Envision the location and mark progress per the rank of the expedition.
On a weak hit, as above, but this progress costs you. Choose one.
Suffer costs en route: Make a suffer move (-2), or two suffer moves (-1).
Face a peril at the waypoint: Envision what you encounter.
Burn Momentum? No
Lose Momentum: When you are delayed or disadvantaged, suffer -1 momentum for a minor setback, -2 for a serious setback, or -3 for a major setback.
Nature of Waypoint: 70
1-40: void sea
41-80: landmass
81-90: derelict
91-00: ancient site
Oceanic landmass
Settlements: none
Seen from distance: orbiting moon, strong tide
Undertake an Expedition
When you trailblaze a route through perilous space, journey over hazardous terrain, or survey a mysterious site, give the expedition a name and rank. Then, for each segment of the expedition, envision your approach. If you…Stay vigilant: Roll +wits
[Strong Hit: 6 + 3 + 0 = 9 vs 1 | 1] MATCH
On a strong hit, you reach a waypoint. Envision the location and mark progress per the rank of the expedition.
Waypoint: Void Sea: Debris field:
Sighting: Creature boneyard
Opportunity: Advance warning of an environmental threat (+1 from Match)
Explore a Waypoint: When you divert from an expedition to examine a notable location, roll +wits.
[Miss: 4 + 3 + 1 = 8 vs 9 | 9] MATCH
On a miss, you encounter an immediate hardship or threat, and must Pay the Price. On a miss with a match, you may instead Confront Chaos.
[Confront Chaos: Site of a baffling disappearance]
[Confront Chaos: Technology warped for dark purpose]
[Confront Chaos: Destructive lifeform of monstrous proportion] multiple skysquid
Enter the Fray: When you initiate combat or are forced into a fight, envision your objective and give it a rank. If the combat includes discrete challenges or phases, set an objective with a rank for each.
Then, roll to see if you are in control. If you are…
On the move: Roll +edge
Facing off against your foe: Roll +heart
In the thick of it at close quarters: Roll +iron *
Preparing to act against an unaware foe: Roll +shadow
Caught in a trap or sizing up the situation: Roll +wits
[Weak Hit: 6 + 1 + 0 = 7 vs 4 | 10]: In control
On a weak hit, choose one.
Take +2 momentum
You are in control *
Gain Ground: When you are in control and take action in a fight to reinforce your position or move toward an objective, envision your approach and roll. If you are…
In pursuit, fleeing, or maneuvering: Roll +edge
Charging boldly into action, coming to the aid of others, negotiating, or commanding: Roll +heart
Gaining leverage with force, powering through, or making a threat: Roll +iron
Hiding, preparing an ambush, or misdirecting: Roll +shadow
Coordinating a plan, studying a situation, or cleverly gaining leverage: Roll +wits*
[Weak Hit: 4 + 3 + 0 = 7 vs 4 | 9]
On a hit, you stay in control. On a weak hit, choose one.
Mark progress
Take +2 momentum
Add +1 on your next move (not a progress move)
Strike: When you are in control and assault a foe at close quarters, roll +iron; when you attack at a distance, roll +edge*. (Cadmus and Barbican man the light cannon)
[Weak Hit: 3 + 1 + 0 = 4 vs 5 | 1]
On a weak hit, mark progress twice, but you expose yourself to danger. You are in a bad spot.
TLAS3 Chapter 2 Crossing the Rubicon
Posted in podcast, The Lone Adventurer on May 3, 2023 by Carlhttps://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-4w34x-13fa97b
With scap pirates closing in, Mina and her companions must think quickly: will they flee, or stand and fight? And even if they should escape, what then? How will they survive, uncertain and unprepared, in one of the most hostile environments in the Chained World?
Links
Transcript:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1fTPrz_y4iogQMs12PdeQ6kHon3113ysjwpOCEHTvExY/edit?usp=sharing
All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ and Slipstream https://slip.stream/
Twitter @TheLoneAdv
Email TheLoneAdv@gmail.com
Podbean https://theloneadventurer.podbean.com/
Blog https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/
Ironsworn: Starforged: https://www.ironswornrpg.com/product-ironsworn-starforged
Perchance TLA Random event Oracle: https://perchance.org/tla-randomevent
Mechanics
Secure an Advantage: When you assess a situation, make preparations, or attempt to gain leverage, envision your action and roll. If you act with expertise, focus, or observation: Roll +wits
[Strong Hit: 3 + 3 + 0 = 6 vs 2 | 3]
On a hit, you succeed. On a strong hit, take both:
Take +2 momentum
Add +1 on your next move (not a progress move)
Mina checks out the ship’s systems, and determines her hull will survive the cloud layer far better than the enemy ship
Face Danger: When you attempt something risky or react to an imminent threat, envision your action and roll. If you act…
With resolve, command, or sociability: Roll +heart
[Weak Hit: 3 + 2 + 1 = 6 vs 2 | 10] On a weak hit, you succeed, but not without a cost. Make a suffer move (-1).
Withstand Damage: When your vehicle faces a damaging situation or environment, suffer -1 integrity for minor damage, -2 for serious damage, or -3 for major damage. If your integrity is 0, Lose Momentum equal to any remaining damage. Then, if your integrity is 0 or you choose to resist the damage, roll +integrity.
Reinforced Hull: When you Withstand Damage, add +1. On a strong hit, take +1 momentum.
[Strong Hit: 4 + 4 + 1 = 9 vs 6 | 3] On a strong hit, choose one.
Bypass: If your vehicle is not battered, take +1 integrity
Ride it out: Take +1 momentum
Mina is able to crank up the magical shields. 5 Integrity, +1 momentum. Safe (for now).
Undertake an Expedition: When you trailblaze a route through perilous space, journey over hazardous terrain, or survey a mysterious site, give the expedition a name and rank. Then, for each segment of the expedition, envision your approach. If you Stay vigilant: Roll +wits
[Miss: 4 + 3 + 0 = 7 vs 7 | 9] On a miss, you arrive at a waypoint to confront an immediate hardship or threat. Do not mark progress, and Pay the Price.
Waypoint: Interestingly Lonely (a derelict ship)
Name: Rubicon
Condition Heavily damaged
Outer First Look Sending a signal or message
Inner First Look Corroded surfaces
Board to find navigation equipment & supplies
Check Your Gear: When you check to see if you have a specific helpful item or resource, roll +supply.
[Strong Hit: 3 + 5 + 0 = 8 vs 3 | 4] On a strong hit, you have it, and are ready to act. Take +1 momentum.
Explore a Waypoint: When you divert from an expedition to examine a notable location, roll +wits.
[Strong Hit: 3 + 3 + 0 = 6 vs 5 | 5] On a strong hit, choose one.
Find an opportunity: Envision a favorable insight, situation, resource, or encounter. Then, take +2 momentum.
Gain progress: Mark progress on your expedition, per its rank.
On a strong hit with a match, you may instead Make a Discovery.
Is there anything of interest aboard? The event relates to a Situation: War on the League of Free Nations
If required, here’s a Mythic 2 Action and theme: Deposit Opposition
And here’s a Mythic 2 Descriptor and Focus: Loyally Modern
Deposit Opposition: The Rubicon was once a secret weapon of the Empire, capable of depositing powerful bombs on enemy cities from high above. However, it was sabotaged by a group of rebels who opposed the Empire’s tyranny and wanted to end the war. They managed to infiltrate the skyship and plant explosives that caused it to crash into the Void Sea, where it remained hidden.
Loyally Modern: The League of Free States is a coalition of former colonies that broke away from the Empire and formed their own independent nations. They are loyal to each other and share a common vision of progress and innovation. They have developed advanced magitech that rivals the Empire’s, such as airships, firearms, and automatons. They are determined to defend their freedom and sovereignty from the Empire’s aggression.
TLAS3 Chapter 1 Dead Reckoning
Posted in podcast, The Lone Adventurer on April 19, 2023 by Carlhttps://www.podbean.com/media/share/pb-9wrt3-13e86dd
With the Web lost beneath the ruins of the opera house, it falls to another to take up the baton in the struggle against the Unseen. But how to strike back against so implacable a foe?
Links
Transcript:
https://docs.google.com/document/d/1E96oWUXGTb3SOOhZnqrY18VFat6PaAPmN7U931KQK-I/edit?usp=sharing
All music is royalty-free, and courtesy of Pixabay: https://pixabay.com/music/ and Slipstream https://slip.stream/
Twitter @TheLoneAdv
Email TheLoneAdv@gmail.com
Podbean https://theloneadventurer.podbean.com/
Blog https://carlillustration.wordpress.com/
Ironsworn: Starforged: https://www.ironswornrpg.com/product-ironsworn-starforged
Perchance TLA Random event Oracle: https://perchance.org/tla-randomevent
Mechanics
Roll to find out who makes it to the ship alongside Mina:
- Barbican Y
- Cadmus Y
- Tatters
- A vampire
- Dr Kropp
CEO odds set: 1/6 chance of extended event
[Begin a Session: Seemingly unrelated situations are shown to be connected]
TLA Oracle (what situations?) The event relates to a Starforged Action and Theme: Uncover Resource
TLA Oracle (what resource?) The event relates to a Starforged Descriptor and Focus: Automated Creature
Swear an Iron Vow (Heart) (Disrupt armada at Conflict) [Weak Hit: 5 + 2 + 0 = 7 vs 8 | 5]
On a weak hit, you are determined but begin your quest with more questions than answers. Take +1 momentum (3), and envision what you do to find a path forward: Board the skyship and…
Face Danger (Shadow) Trick the pilot out of the drop chute [Weak Hit: 4 + 2 + 0 = 6 vs 5 | 6]
On a weak hit, you succeed, but not without a cost. Make a suffer move (-1).
Endure Stress (Spirit) [Weak Hit: 4 + 4 + 0 = 8 vs 10 | 7]
On a weak hit, if you are not shaken, you may Lose Momentum (-1) in exchange for +1 spirit. Otherwise, press on.
Gearhead: With sufficient time (a couple of hours or more), you may Face Danger to assemble or enhance a device for a powerful but limited role. On a hit, the device is ready for use. One time only, when you or an ally make a move aided by the device, take an automatic strong hit. If you are in a fight, also mark progress.
Face Danger (extract Cadmus and Barbican from the box: On a strong hit, you are successful. Take +1 momentum.
Does Mina know how to fly a Skyship? 50/50 [Ask the Oracle: Yes]
Set a Course (escape the city): When you follow a known route through perilous space, across hazardous terrain, or within a mysterious site, roll +supply.
[Strong Hit: 4 + 5 + 0 = 9 vs 4 | 1] On a strong hit, you reach your destination and the situation there favors you. Take +1 momentum.
Undertake an Expedition When you trailblaze a route through perilous space, journey over hazardous terrain, or survey a mysterious site, give the expedition a name and rank. Then, for each segment of the expedition, envision your approach. If you Keep under the radar: Roll +shadow [Miss: 3 + 2 + 0 = 5 vs 7 | 5]
On a miss, you are waylaid by a crisis, or arrive at a waypoint to confront an immediate hardship or threat. Do not mark progress, and Pay the Price.
Pursuit? No. Ship ahead (Bargain Project)
Stupid, Reckless and Overwhelmed 