Category: Gaming

  • Session 13 – Unveiling Cairo’s Hidden Threads

    Session 13 – Unveiling Cairo’s Hidden Threads

    Our party returned this week to delve deeper into Cairo’s winding alleys and cryptic lore. In typical fashion, they stumbled upon street toughs, helpful children, suspicious shopkeepers, and half-whispered references to ancient cults..

    Key Characters Introduced

    • Mahmoud – The quick-witted street urchin offering his services as a “Drago man” (guide). He has a knack for fading into Cairo’s crowded bazaars and reappearing exactly when needed—especially if a bit of money is involved.
    • Faraz Najjir – A burned, wary shopkeeper once possessed important occult “curios.” Terrified of the Brotherhood, who scarred him, he initially fled at the mention of the Carlisle Expedition but later shared details of his dangerous past dealings.
    • Uwayid (Nuri’s Son) – Scarred in the same attack that left Nuri speechless. Protective of his mother and initially wary of strangers, he ultimately allowed the group to see Nuri once she spoke again for the first time in months.
    • Nuri – An elderly wise woman, catatonic after a vicious supernatural event. She briefly became lucid upon meeting Virginia, handing her a fragment from the Red Pyramid at Dahshur. Her sudden awareness vanished just as quickly.
    • Omar Al-Shakti – Mentioned as a powerful local businessman tied to the Brotherhood. While not encountered face-to-face, his influence looms large.

    Key Events

    • Mahmoud, the Resourceful Street Guide
      • Early on, the group discovered they were being tailed by a mysterious figure who turned out to be a boy named Mahmud.
      • Though initially suspicious, the investigators decided his street smarts and knowledge of Cairo would be invaluable. Mahmoud quickly became a sort of guide—who demanded plenty of payment in exchange for his help and local intel.
    • Encounter with Faraz Najjir
      • Determined to find Faraz Najjir, the investigators tracked him to a new location in the Street of Potters.
      • Their first attempt to chat about the doomed Carlisle Expedition ended badly—simply mentioning Carlisle triggered Najjir’s terror. He abruptly closed his shop and fled.
      • On a second approach, the more diplomatic members of the group managed to gain Najir’s trust. Faraz revealed that he once sold “singular curios” to Warren Bessart, acting on behalf of the Carlisle Expedition—an act he now gravely regrets.
      • He also warned the party about a cult known as the “Brotherhood,” who burned half of his face in retaliation for crossing them.
      • Najir spoke fearfully of relics tied to a mysterious figure called the Black Pharaoh. He believes these relics (including a crown inlaid with a large zircon) point to the legend of an ancient queen known as “Necrotis.”
      • Hints emerged about a stolen mummy from a major archaeological dig in Giza from the Clive Expedition. Najir seemed convinced that the Brotherhood orchestrated these thefts.
    • Visiting Nuri, the “Wise Woman”
      • Seeking more information about Necrotis, the investigators paid a visit—by way of Mahmud’s guidance—to an old wise woman named Nuri in a quiet quarter of Cairo.
      • Nuri, apparently catatonic from a devastating supernatural attack, momentarily sprang to life at the sight of Virginia, calling her “the one.” She offered (in a brief moment of lucidity) a fragment of a pinkish limestone tablet said to be from the Red Pyramid at Dahshur.
      • Having done so, she relapsed into silence, leaving the group with more questions than answers.
    • On the Trail of Warren Bessart
      • With Faraz Najir’s leads—and Mahmud’s sleuthing—the group set out to find Warren Bessart along the Street of Scorpions in Cairo.
      • Following winding directions past small clothing shops and local stalls, they ended in front of a bright red door. If their intel is correct, this is where Bessart can be found.
      • The session ended right as they stepped inside. What revelations, or perils, await behind that red door remain to be seen…
    images-people-mahmoud

    Standout Moments

    • Virginia – Named by Nuri as “the one,” given a mysterious fragment that might hold great significance.
    • Alejandro – Ever the Wild Card jokes about boxing a walking mummy and has a knack for making social situations…unpredictable.
    • Bessie – Her medical background provided insight into unusual scars and relics—though her bedside manner can be a tad intense.
    • Omar & Ezekiel – Quietly collecting every clue, steering the group, and handling the stealthier aspects of tailing or avoiding local cult watchers.

    The Brotherhood’s influence grows more ominous daily, and the name “Necrotis” now hangs over the party like a dark cloud. Could these newly revealed relics be the key to returning an ancient power from the grave—or the only hope of stopping it?

    Stay tuned for the next session to see what lies behind the red door of the Street of Scorpions and whether Warren Bessart can illuminate more of the Carlisle Expedition’s dark history before the Brotherhood tightens its grip on the group!

    If you want to get Masks of Nyarlathotep, please click the links below. It helps the channel out if you buy from these links!

    Investigators Handbook: https://amzn.to/4fHaRdi

    Keeper Rulebook: https://amzn.to/4dilnpG

    I use Fantasy Grounds for the automation and Virtual Table Top; please check them out here: http://affiliates.fantasygrounds.com/361781/15958

  • Session 12 – Shadows of the Jackal: Arrival in Cairo

    Session 12 – Shadows of the Jackal: Arrival in Cairo

    In this week’s session of Masks of Nyarlathotep, the investigators plunged into the mysteries of Cairo, navigating bustling marketplaces, enigmatic street names, and a world of hidden dangers. A mix of humor, tension, and resourcefulness brought the group face-to-face with shadowy figures, burnt-down shops, and an eerily persistent tail.

    Key Characters Introduced

    • Saleem Naziz – A dragoman from the Shephard’s Hotel, Sim offered his services to help the investigators navigate Cairo and locate individuals of interest. While affable and resourceful, his motivations remain unclear.
    • Street Merchant at the Street of Jackals – A vendor reluctant to speak of Faraz Najir’s fate. With some persuasion, he revealed that Faraz had relocated to the Street of Potters after his shop was mysteriously burned down.
    • Mystery Tail – A shadowy figure who followed the group through the streets of Cairo, disappearing into the crowds whenever spotted. The investigators ultimately managed to corner this individual in an alley.

    Key Events

    • Arrival in Cairo – The investigators arrive in Cairo only to encounter aggressive porters. Their luggage was spirited to a hotel they hadn’t reserved, sparking tension and mistrust.
    • Relocation to Shephard’s Hotel – Rejecting the uninvited hospitality of Hotel du Sud, the group secured accommodations at their intended destination at the prestigious Shephard\’s Hotel. It was established as their base of operations.
    • Scheduling a Meeting with Dr. Ali Kafour – Ezekiel contacted Dr. Kafour’s secretary to secure an appointment with the renowned Egyptian curator and occult and ritual magic expert at the Egyptian Museum for February 11th.
    • Shopping and Exploration at the Street of Jackals – The group explored the bustling bazaar, purchasing local attire and souvenirs to blend into the local culture. Their inquiries into Faraz Najir\’s whereabouts met with unease and avoidance from local merchants.
    • Uncovering Faraz Najir’s New Location – A hesitant merchant revealed that Faraz Najir, whose shop had burned down under mysterious circumstances, had relocated to the Street of Potters. The information came with a warning, suggesting danger tied to Najir’s dealings.
    • Spotting a Shadowy Tail – Emerson identified someone following the group through the crowded streets, prompting the investigators to develop a plan to lose or confront the pursuer.
    • Cornering the Tail – Employing stealth and strategy, Ezekiel isolated and confronted the individual tailing the group. In a dramatic moment, the investigators found themselves face-to-face with a mysterious young boy, hands raised in surrender.
    images-people-ibi-moussa2

    Standout Moments

    • Ezekiel – Using his familiarity with Egypt, Ezekiel guided the group through the chaotic streets of Cairo, successfully locating both the train station and key locations on their map. His expert stealth allowed the group to corner a mysterious tail in the alleys near the Street of Jackals.
    • Emerson – Demonstrating a keen eye, Emerson was the first to spot the group’s shadowy tail. His cautious approach kept the group aware of potential dangers and paved the way for their eventual confrontation with the follower.
    • Alejandro – Always the flamboyant entertainer, Alejandro brought humor and levity to the session, from his fascination with exotic souvenirs to his insistence on wearing his newfound fez with pride. His interactions with locals kept the group grounded and provided valuable comic relief.

    As the session drew close, the investigators found themselves at a critical crossroads in the heart of Cairo’s labyrinthine streets. With a cornered tail, burning questions about Faraz Najir’s mysterious past, and the looming promise of a meeting with Dr. Ali Kafour, the threads of their investigation are beginning to weave into a dangerous tapestry. What secrets will the Street of Potters reveal, and who is indeed pulling the strings in the shadows of this ancient city? Next week promises more intrigue, danger, and revelations as the investigators push deeper into the heart of the mystery!

    If you want to get Masks of Nyarlathotep, please click the links below. It helps the channel out if you buy from these links!

    Investigators Handbook: https://amzn.to/4fHaRdi

    Keeper Rulebook: https://amzn.to/4dilnpG

    I use Fantasy Grounds for the automation and Virtual Table Top; please check them out here: http://affiliates.fantasygrounds.com/361781/15958

  • Session 11 – Unmasking Corruption and Dark Rituals

    Session 11 – Unmasking Corruption and Dark Rituals

    In this session, the investigators continued their infiltration of the infamous Juju House, where they stumbled upon new horrors and disturbing artifacts in a secret basement chamber. They uncovered evidence implicating a corrupt officer and ultimately saved their wrongfully accused ally from execution. Their harrowing discoveries now point them toward even darker secrets awaiting in Egypt.

    Key Characters Introduced

    • Chakota – The Chakota is a hideous, writhing amalgamation of faces and flesh fused into a single, pulsing mass. Each of its countless human faces appears to wail in agony, forming a cacophony of tormented voices that chills the soul. At its core, it’s an unnatural entity fueled by dark rituals, a living tapestry of all those sacrificed to the bloody cult that spawned it.

    Key Events

    • Encountering the Chakota – Deeper inside, they uncovered a monstrous, shifting mass of screaming faces, revealing a horrific ritual presence.
    • Collecting Damning Evidence – The team found incriminating ledgers and personal belongings linking missing victims and a corrupt police officer to the cult.
    • Hotel Attack from Above – After escaping the Juju House, a flying serpent-like creature smashed through a hotel wall, injuring one of the investigators.
    • Exposing Corruption & Saving an Ally – Working with Lieutenant Poole, the investigators provided enough proof to clear Hilton Adams of murder charges and implicate the corrupt officer.
    • Preparing for Egypt – Having shut down the Juju House (at least for now), the group gathered new research materials and made plans to travel onward to Cairo.
    chakota

    Standout Moments

    • Last-Second Pit Sealing – Even while horrified by the monstrous Chakota, the investigators kept calm and used the large winch mechanism to slam the stone covering shut, averting a worse catastrophe.
    • Life-Saving Field Medicine – After a flying serpent violently injured an investigator, a quick, improvised medical intervention prevented a fatal outcome before hospital care was possible.
    • Corruption Unmasked – Determined sleuthing and meticulous evidence-gathering not only freed an innocent man but also exposed a crooked police officer in league with the cultists.

    With the Juju House exposed and corrupt cops hauled away in cuffs, the investigators have won a temporary reprieve. Yet the scraps of lore and ominous artifacts they carry point toward deeper, more ancient horrors festering around the world. Steeled by fresh triumph—and haunted by what they’ve seen—these investigators will soon cross the seas, bracing for the next crucible awaiting them as their first stop in Egypt.

    If you want to get Masks of Nyarlathotep, please click the links below. It helps the channel out if you buy from these links!

    Investigators Handbook: https://amzn.to/4fHaRdi

    Keeper Rulebook: https://amzn.to/4dilnpG

    I use Fantasy Grounds for the automation and Virtual Table Top; please check them out here: http://affiliates.fantasygrounds.com/361781/15958

  • Session 10 – Secrets of the Juju House: A Horrific Investigation

    Session 10 – Secrets of the Juju House: A Horrific Investigation

    In this session, our band of investigators found themselves racing against time and ever-darkening odds in Harlem’s shadowy underbelly. With the life of wrongfully convicted Hilton Adams hanging in the balance, they pushed for a temporary reprieve from his looming execution, only to uncover deeper layers of corruption and cult activity. A tense meeting at an abandoned theater revealed hidden allies, guarded secrets, and new leads pointing toward the Juju House and the insidious “Bloody Tongue” cult within. Determined not to squander their precious forty-eight-hour extension, the group broke into the mysterious shop, discovered secret passages, and descended into a gruesome subterranean chamber where the dead walked, and heads had to roll—literally—to end the nightmare.

    Key Characters Introduced

    • Millie Adams – Introduced through a tearful meeting at the Lafayette Theater, she revealed more about her husband’s innocence and the secrets of the Juju House.
    • Theodore – Appearing as Millie’s ally at the Lafayette Theater, he tested the investigators’ trustworthiness and hinted at underground activities beneath the Juju House.
    • Judge Jim – Mentioned via a phone call by Lieutenant Poole, he granted a vital 48-hour reprieve for Hilton Adams’ execution without ever meeting the investigators in person
    • M’Dari – Referenced by Millie as a key figure possibly possessing Hilton’s notebook, he emerged only by name as a sinister link to the Bloody Tongue lurking in Harlem.

    Key Events

    • Contacting Lieutenant Poole and Securing a Reprieve
      • Influenced by Virginia’s persuasion, Poole arranges a last-minute 48-hour delay of Hilton Adams’ execution.
      • The investigators clarify the need for solid proof of Adams’ innocence.
    • The Emotional Call to Millie Adams
      • The purple butterfly token from Hilton triggers an emotional response, leading to a secret meeting at the Lafayette Theater.
      • Millie hints at critical evidence (Hilton’s notebook) and mentions M’Dari connected to the Bloody Tongue.
    • Meeting Millie at the Lafayette Theater
      • Millie’s allies test the investigators’ honesty, ensuring they aren’t cult assassins.
      • The party gains a key to Hilton’s former lookout spot and learns of suspicious monthly gatherings at the Juju House.
    • Infiltrating the Juju House
      • With stealth and lockpicking, the investigators enter the shop after dark, searching for hidden spaces.
      • Beneath a concealed trapdoor, they discover a heavy, symbol-laden door leading underground.
    • Descent into the Underground Chamber
      • Deep in the basement, they encounter horrifying undead creatures that only fall when attacked at the head.
      • A fierce battle ends with the party bloodied but victorious, confirming the Juju House’s deadly secrets.
    zombies

    Standout Moments

    • 48-Hour Reprieve Secured: Lieutenant Poole, swayed by Virginia’s appeal, arranges a critical delay for Hilton Adams’ execution. This purchased time is a precious resource that the investigators must use wisely to prove Adams’ innocence.
    • Purple Butterfly Clue: Hilton secretly passes Virginia a tiny origami butterfly, which becomes a key symbol of his innocence and devotion. Its significance leads the team to Millie Adams, revealing emotional depths and crucial leads.
    • Secret Meeting at Lafayette: Millie and her allies cautiously test the investigators’ trust at the rundown theater. Their acceptance grants the party a vital key to an apartment that once was Hilton’s surveillance post.
    • Juju House Break-In: Under cover of darkness, the team bypasses locks and lifts a concealed trapdoor. They uncover hidden chambers and unsettling symbols that confirm their worst suspicions about the cult’s secretive activities.
    • Undead Showdown Underground: Facing horrific reanimated corpses, the investigators learn the brutal truth that body shots mean nothing—heads must roll. Though injured and horrified, they prevail, proving their resolve in the face of the unnatural.

    With the undead horrors dispatched and their resolve tested, the investigators now stand on the threshold of even darker discoveries. Time is ticking, and the secrets of the Bloody Tongue cult wait. Next week, they must press on, find the incriminating notebook, hopefully save Hilton, and uncover the truth—no matter the cost.

    If you want to get Masks of Nyarlathotep, please click the links below. It helps the channel out if you buy from these links!

    Investigators Handbook: https://amzn.to/4fHaRdi

    Keeper Rulebook: https://amzn.to/4dilnpG

    I use Fantasy Grounds for the automation and Virtual Table Top; please check them out here: http://affiliates.fantasygrounds.com/361781/15958

  • Session 9 – Unveiling Cult Secrets in Harlem

    Session 9 – Unveiling Cult Secrets in Harlem

    The session unfolded with the investigators navigating New York City, chasing leads tied to the mysterious Carlyle Expedition and sinister cult activity.  They visited Hilton Adams, a prisoner in Sing Sing who was suspected of being wrongly accused, and debated how to approach his case. Then, between engaging with Bradley Grey to arrange a potential meeting with Erica Carlyle and investigating the chaotic Emerson Imports, the group made steady progress while grappling with setbacks, humorous moments, and the growing intrigue surrounding the mysterious deaths and cult activities tied to Jackson Elias.

    Key Characters Introduced

    • Bradley Grey: Erica Carlyle’s polished and guarded lawyer, who was hesitant to assist the investigators but offered a potential meeting after some persuasion.
    • Erica Carlyle: Mentioned as the wealthy sister of Roger Carlyle, the last known leader of the Carlyle Expedition and a potential source of critical information about her brother’s disappearance.
    • Hilton Adams: A prisoner in Sing Sing, suspected of being falsely accused of murders in Harlem, offering a potential link to the cult activities surrounding Jackson Elias’s death.

    Key Events

    • Recap and Lead Consolidation
      • The session began with the group reviewing their current location and leads and confirming that they were still in New York City.
      • Key leads included the Juju House, Erica Carlyle, Hilton Adams at Sing Sing, and the Emerson Imports card found on a victim.
      • The investigators recapped prior interactions with NPCs.
    • Interaction with Bradley Grey
      • The party visited Bradley Grey’s office, Erica Carlyle’s lawyer, to request a meeting with her.
      • Several attempts at persuasion and charm were made, with humor and awkward moments, such as overly persistent handshakes and a failed bribe with “rejuvenating bath salts.”
      • Virginia ultimately secured a tentative promise to meet with Erica Carlyle, with instructions to return in the evening.
    • Meeting with Erica Carlyle
      • After securing an introduction through Bradley Grey, the investigators met Erica Carlyle at her opulent mansion. Her composed demeanor contrasted sharply with the weight of the topics discussed.
      • Erica revealed her strained relationship with her brother, Roger Carlyle, describing him as aimless and emotionally unstable before his sudden obsession with an enigmatic African woman, Bunay, whom he claimed showed him “hidden truths.”
      • She recounted her efforts to save Roger from financial ruin and bad influences, including attempts to see him psychiatrists, though none could dissuade him from his ill-fated expedition.
      • Erica confirmed that she had personally traveled to Africa after the group’s disappearance and funded efforts to recover their remains, which yielded no conclusive evidence of their fate.
      • When asked about Roger’s journals or documents, Erica mentioned keeping some of his belongings locked in a safe but expressed skepticism about their usefulness to the investigation.
      • She eventually provided access to the books, which included cryptic notes and references to dreams, cults, and rituals, further deepening the mystery of what truly happened to Roger Carlyle and his expedition.
    • Meeting with Hilton Adams at Sing Sing
      • The investigators traveled to Sing Sing prison to speak with Hilton Adams, a man they believed to be wrongly accused of a series of gruesome murders in Harlem.
      • Hilton revealed his deep frustration at being framed, explaining that his attempts to uncover strange disappearances in Harlem led him to be targeted by a corrupt police officer from the Harlem precinct.
      • He recounted eerie details of his investigation, mentioning strange symbols, chants heard at night, and a shadowy figure watching him before his arrest.
      • The group learned about Hilton’s wife, Millie, who might have additional information as she campaigned for his innocence outside the prison walls.
      • Despite his dire situation, Hilton remained determined to expose the cult-like activities he had uncovered. He urged the group to continue his work and provided names and locations tied to his research.
    • Investigation at Emerson Imports
      • The investigators arrived at Emerson Imports, a bustling warehouse filled with workers loading and unloading goods worldwide, including crates labeled with destinations like Africa, Australia, and England.
      • Initially met with suspicion by a worker, the group managed to track down the warehouse manager, Arthur Emerson, to inquire about the card found on the murder victim.
      • Arthur confirmed that the card belonged to Silas N’Kwane, the proprietor of the Juju House. This indicates a clear business connection between Emerson Imports and the mysterious shop.
      • Emerson revealed that N’Kwane regularly received shipments from Africa through his company but claimed not to know the specifics of what was being imported.
      • Under further questioning, Emerson appeared uneasy, admitting that N’Kwane was an unusual client who paid well but was secretive about the contents of the shipments.
    ericacarlyle-mon-coc-rpg

    Standout Moments

    • Virginia secures a meeting with Bradley Grey: After others’ numerous failed attempts to charm the lawyer, Virginia succeeds with a mix of poise and persuasion, earning the group a potential audience with Erica Carlyle.
    • Bessie’s bath salts bribe falls flat: Despite her passionate delivery, Bessie’s elaborate pitch about magical rejuvenating bath salts from Patagonia was met with skepticism and rejection.
    • Alejandro suggests kidnapping Bradley Grey: In a morally questionable yet amusing turn, Alejandro proposed abducting the lawyer as a quick solution to their lack of access to Erica Carlyle.
    • The team debates the fate of Africa’s Dark Sects: The Keeper humorously mispronounces the name of the rare book, leading to some unintended innuendos while discussing how to find a copy.
    • Hilton Adams shares eerie details of Ju-Ju House: Hilton’s haunting descriptions of strange symbols, shadowy figures, and chilling chants provided a deeply atmospheric moment that added tension and mystery to the investigation.
    • The Juju House vanishing act revisited: The team speculated about N’Kwane’s bizarre disappearance during their previous encounter, with Alejandro notoriously blaming it on his extended bathroom break.

    As the investigators piece together the web of connections between the Carlyle Expedition, African cults, and the eerie happenings in Harlem, they find themselves on the verge of uncovering dangerous secrets. With new leads to pursue and mounting tensions, their next moves could bring them closer to the truth—or deeper into the madness.

    If you want to get Masks of Nyarlathotep, please click the links below. It helps the channel out if you buy from these links!

    Investigators Handbook: https://amzn.to/4fHaRdi

    Keeper Rulebook: https://amzn.to/4dilnpG

    I use Fantasy Grounds for the automation and Virtual Table Top; please check them out here: http://affiliates.fantasygrounds.com/361781/15958

  • Session 8 – Uncovering More Clues

    Session 8 – Uncovering More Clues

    The investigators gather at Jackson Elias’s funeral, where they meet key figures from his life, including his publisher, Jonah Kensington, and lawyer, Carlton Ramsey. As they mourn their friend, they uncover eerie clues about his final days, including letters that hint at his obsession with the ill-fated Carlyle Expedition. With Elias’s will urging them onward, they prepare to delve deeper into the web of cults, dark forces, and mysteries he left behind.

    Key Characters Introduced

    • Jonah Kensington – Jackson’s publisher at Prospero House, who meets the team at the funeral and later provides them with key letters Elias sent, hinting at the mysteries of the Carlyle Expedition.
    • Carlton Ramsey – Jackson’s lawyer and executor of his estate, who invites the investigators to a reading of the will. He reveals Jackson’s funds are set aside to support their investigation and hands over important documents left by Jackson.
    • Rebecca Schosenburg – A reporter who shares details of the recent murder cases and offers to help the investigators as they dig deeper, even inviting them to contact her at the New York Times.
    • Hilton Adams – Mentioned as a key person for the investigators to interview; he is currently imprisoned at Sing Sing for murder, though his involvement in cult activities remains uncertain.
    • Professor Anthony Cowles – A Miskatonic University professor specializing in Polynesian and Pacific cults, who shares insights about a disturbing cult linked to sacrifices and bat deities, possibly tied to the mysteries Jackson was investigating.
    • Erica Carlyle – Mentioned as the heir to the Carlyle fortune and sister to the missing Roger Carlyle. Her involvement with Jackson’s leads is critical, though meeting her may require going through her legal counsel.
    • Bradley Grey – Erica Carlyle’s lawyer, mentioned as a possible point of contact if the investigators wish to gain access to Erica and the Carlyle estate records.

    Key Events

    • Meeting with Jonah Kensington
      • At the funeral, the investigators meet Jackson’s publisher, Jonah, who offers to share Jackson’s recent letters and invites them to visit his office for more information.
    • Receiving Jackson’s Last Letters
      • Jonah shares Jackson’s cryptic letters from Nairobi and Hong Kong, where Jackson details his findings on the Carlyle Expedition and hints at his growing fears and suspicions about surviving expedition members and cults.
    • Introduction to Professor Anthony Cowles
      • The investigators travel to Miskatonic University to meet Professor Cowles, who shares insights about a bat-worshipping cult from Polynesia, and provides background that may tie into their investigation.
    • The Carlyle Will Reading
      • Carlton Ramsey conducts the reading of Jackson’s will.
      • It reveals that Jackson’s estate has been set aside to fund the investigators’ work.
      • It also encourages them to continue their pursuit of the Carlyle Expedition’s mysteries.
    • Discussion of Potential Leads
      • After the will reading, the investigators discuss key locations and individuals they need to pursue:
        • Ju Ju House in Harlem
        • Hilton Adams in Sing Sing
        • Erica Carlyle
        • A journey to Australia to follow Jackson’s trail further.
    callofcthluhu-masksofnyarlathotep

    Standout Moments

    • Unveiling of Jackson Elias’s Final Letter – The moment Jonah Kensington shared Jackson’s cryptic final letter, full of frantic warnings about the Carlyle Expedition and mysterious “psychoanalyst files,” sent a chill through the group. The dramatic language hinted at terrifying dangers, leaving everyone intrigued and eager to follow the leads.
    • Professor Cowles’s Description of the Cult of the Sand Bat – During their visit to Miskatonic University, Professor Cowles’s passionate recounting of the horrific practices of the bat-worshipping cult, including human sacrifices and monstrous transformations, gripped everyone. The possibility that such a cult could be linked to their own investigation sparked curiosity and dread.
    • Carlton Ramsey’s Reading of Jackson’s Will – The reading of Jackson’s will was a surprising and emotional moment, as Ramsey revealed that Jackson had left a significant fund to aid the investigators in continuing his work. This act of trust and dedication from their deceased friend galvanized the team, reinforcing their commitment to uncovering the truth behind the Carlyle Expedition.

    As the investigators prepare to dig deeper into the web of clues left by Jackson Elias, they carry forward his unyielding drive for the truth. With chilling discoveries already surfacing and even darker mysteries awaiting them, the team is on the brink of an adventure that promises not only to test their courage but to pull them ever closer to the edge of madness. The path ahead is fraught with danger, but they are willing to face the horrors lurking in the shadows.

    If you want to get Masks of Nyarlathotep, please click the links below. It helps the channel out if you buy from these links!

    Investigators Handbook: https://amzn.to/4fHaRdi

    Keeper Rulebook: https://amzn.to/4dilnpG

    I use Fantasy Grounds for the automation and Virtual Table Top; please check them out here: http://affiliates.fantasygrounds.com/361781/15958

  • Session 7 – America – The Funeral Invitation and More Dark Revelations

    Session 7 – America – The Funeral Invitation and More Dark Revelations

    The investigators regroup after Jackson Elias’s murder and receive an ominous invitation to his funeral. At the police precinct, they charm Lieutenant Poole into revealing that Elias’s death is linked to ritualistic murders in Harlem, casting doubt on the guilt of imprisoned suspect Hilton Adams. A visit to Dr. Mordecai Lemming confirms the murders resemble the work of an African death cult, though it may be a copycat. With new leads pointing to a Harlem shop called the Juju House, the group prepares for the funeral, knowing more dangers lie ahead.

    Key Characters Introduced

    • Lieutenant Martin Poole: Detective working the Jackson Elias case at Precinct 7. Helpful but cautious, sharing insight into the connection between Elias’s murder and prior ritualistic killings. Develops a soft spot for Virginia, offering extra assistance to the group during their visit.
    • Dr. Mordecai Lemming: A slightly disheveled and eccentric folklorist residing in Manhattan. Provides critical insight, linking the ritual markings on the victims to an African death cult. Hospitable and eager to help, though prone to tangents about various cult practices.
    • Carlton Ramsey: Ramsey approached the investigators at Jackson Elias’s funeral and introduced himself. He is the executor of Elias’s will.
    • Rebecca Shosenburg: A journalist who attended Jackson Elias’s funeral.Known for her reporting on crime and corruption, particularly on the Harlem murders linked to Elias’s case.The investigators may find her to be a valuable ally in uncovering hidden truths.

    Key Events

    • Regrouping at the Hotel Chelsea
      • The investigators regroup in the morning after evading the police following Jackson Elias’s murder.
      • A porter delivers an invitation to Elias’s funeral, set for January 17th at Cypress Hill Cemetery, Brooklyn. The personal nature of the message raises questions about how the organizers knew the investigators’ identities.
    • Police Precinct Visit – Meeting Lieutenant Poole
      • Omar, Virginia, and Alejandro visit the police precinct to gather information on the case.Lieutenant Martin Poole reveals troubling details:
      • Elias’s death matches nine other ritualistic murders across Harlem over the past two years.
      • Hilton Adams, imprisoned at Sing Sing, was convicted of these killings, but Poole doubts his guilt, hinting at possible corruption involving Officer Robson.
      • Each victim had the same mysterious symbol carved into their foreheads.
      • Virginia charms Poole, who offers extra hospitality and agrees to stay in touch with the investigators.
    • A Strange Encounter with Dr. Mordecai Lemming
      • The investigators visit Dr. Lemming’s residence in search of more information about the symbol found on Elias’s body.
      • Lemming confirms the symbol is linked to an African death cult, explaining it serves as a mark of power and fear.
      • He suggests the possibility that the killer may be a copycat rather than an actual cult member.
      • Lemming also directs the investigators to Silas N’Kwane, proprietor of the Juju House in Harlem, who may have deeper knowledge. However, the shop is likely closed until Monday.
    dr.-lemmings-apartment

    Standout Moments

    • Virginia Charms Lieutenant Poole – Virginia wins Lieutenant Poole’s favor with her charm, gaining crucial information about the Harlem murders and corruption within the police force.
    • Omar’s Blunder at the Precinct – Omar fumbles his attempt to fast-talk the police, almost drawing unwanted suspicion toward the group.
    • Bessie’s Emotional Funeral Preparation – Bessie purchases oversized sunglasses to hide her potential tears at the funeral, hinting at a personal connection to Jackson Elias.

    With Jackson Elias’s reading of the Will looming, the investigators brace themselves for an emotional farewell and the unsettling possibility that new dangers await. Armed with fresh leads, including Hilton Adams, the secrets hinted at by Dr. Lemming and the mysterious Juju House the group knows their next steps will plunge them deeper into the cult’s dark web. As they prepare for what lies ahead, one thing is certain—this journey is far from over.

    If you want to get Masks of Nyarlathotep, please click the links below. It helps the channel out if you buy from these links!

    Investigators Handbook: https://amzn.to/4fHaRdi

    Keeper Rulebook: https://amzn.to/4dilnpG

    I use Fantasy Grounds for the automation and Virtual Table Top; please check them out here: http://affiliates.fantasygrounds.com/361781/15958

  • Session 6 – America – Tragedy at the Chelsea Hotel

    Session 6 – America – Tragedy at the Chelsea Hotel

    After a tense conclusion in Peru, the investigators found themselves drawn back into the mystery by none other than Jackson Elias. It was a snowy day in New York when they received the call to meet Elias at the Chelsea Hotel, and with a sense of urgency, they made their way to the fourth floor, room 410. But instead of answers, what awaited them was a grisly scene.

    Key Characters Introduced

    • Three Mysterious Cultists: The attackers who were responsible for Jackson’s death. Two were still in the room, standing over Jackson’s body with bloody knives, while the third was attempting to escape via the fire escape. They wore red bandanas, possibly signifying their connection to a more considerable organization.
    • Carlisle Expedition: Although not directly involved in this session, the mention of the Carlisle Expedition in the telegram from Jackson connects their mysterious disappearance with the events in New York. The investigators will likely delve deeper into the expedition\’s role in the larger conspiracy.

    Key Events

    • Reunion at the Chelsea Hotel: The investigators gathered in New York to meet their old friend Jackson Elias at the Chelsea Hotel. The reunion was cheerful initially, with drinks at a speakeasy and shared memories of their past adventures in Peru.
    • The Disturbing Cry for Help: Upon reaching Jackson’s room, the investigators heard a faint call for help through the door. Alejandro quickly broke down the door, leading to the discovery of a horrific scene.
    • Discovery of Jackson\’s Murder: Inside room 410, the group found Jackson Elias dead on the bed, with his stomach gruesomely cut open and symbols carved into his forehead. Three cultists were present—two standing over his body and one escaping through the window.
    • Fight with the Cultists: The investigators sprang into action. Virginia and Alejandro confronted the cultist still in the room, with Bessie delivering a deadly shot. Emerson and Omar pursued the other two cultists out the window and down the fire escape.
    • The Chase on the Fire Escape: Emerson followed the escaping cultists down the fire escape, engaging in a dangerous chase. Though he managed to catch one of the attackers, the others slipped away in the chaos of the snowstorm and the rickety fire escape.
    • Jackson’s Last Moments and Investigators\’ Emotions: While Virginia and Ezekiel checked Jackson for any signs of life, it was clear he had already passed. Bessie, overwhelmed with emotion, took a vengeful shot at the remaining cultist while Ezekiel examined the strange carvings on Jackson’s forehead.
    • Escape from the Crime Scene: After the battle with the cultists and the discovery of Jackson’s brutal murder, the investigators quickly realized they were in a precarious position. With one cultist dead, another gravely injured, and the remaining one fleeing, they needed to act fast. The group made a hasty decision to leave the scene before drawing too much attention, as they contemplated their next steps and the deeper mystery surrounding Jackson’s death and the Carlisle Expedition.

    Standout Moments

    • Alejandro Breaks Down the Door: In a display of strength, Alejandro wasted no time breaking down the door to Jackson’s room after hearing the faint cry for help. His forceful entrance set the tone for the chaos that followed.
    • Bessie’s First Deadly Shot: Bessie, typically reserved, took a critical shot at one of the cultists in the room, hitting him squarely in the chest. This was a standout moment for her, as she showed her determination to seek justice for Jackson.
    • Emerson’s Chase on the Fire Escape: Emerson, determined to capture one of the fleeing cultists, followed him out the window and down the fire escape in a dangerous pursuit. As the fire escape collapsed, he used one of the cultists as a surfboard he rode to safety, critically injuring the cultist. His tenacity showed his willingness to risk it all in the heat of the moment.

    As the investigators reel from the loss of their friend and the shocking events at the Chelsea Hotel, they are left with more questions than answers. With the Carlisle Expedition still looming over them, the mystery deepens, and their next move could uncover even darker truths.

    If you want to get Masks of Nyarlathotep, please click the links below. It helps the channel out if you buy from these links!

    Investigators Handbook: https://amzn.to/4fHaRdi

    Keeper Rulebook: https://amzn.to/4dilnpG

    I use Fantasy Grounds for the automation and Virtual Table Top; please check them out here: http://affiliates.fantasygrounds.com/361781/15958

  • Session 5 – Peru – The Mummy in the Temple

    Session 5 – Peru – The Mummy in the Temple

    This is the 5 session of our adventure. If you want to get Masks of Nyarlathotep, please click the links below. It helps the channel out if you buy from these links!

    Masks of Nyarlathotep Adventure: https://amzn.to/3B0Ztt0

    Call of Cthulhu Investigators Handbook: https://amzn.to/4fHaRdi

    Call of Cthulhu Keeper Rulebook: https://amzn.to/4dilnpG

    I use Fantasy Grounds for the automation and Virtual Table Top; please check them out here: http://affiliates.fantasygrounds.com/361781/15958

    The group’s perilous adventure in Peru in this episode reaches a dramatic crescendo. Following the battle with the Kharisiri, the investigators push deeper into the temple’s dark corridors. Amidst all the chaos, they face a terrifying mummy, uncover mysteries surrounding Augustus Larkin’s true identity, and deal with both physical and mental trials. The episode concludes with a setup for their next adventure in New York.

    The session begins with a tense atmosphere as the investigators stand before a rancid pool of white liquid. Bessie had just been attacked by worms, and the group was recovering their composure. After a brief attempt to regain luck, tension mounts as the group discusses what to do next. They quickly realize that they are in far more danger than anticipated.

    mummy-in-temple

    Key Characters Introduced

    • Mummy: The group finds a mummy stalking them after making too much noise in the temple.
    • Larkin: Larkin is much more than he seems!

    Key Events

    • Alejandro’s Discovery of the Mummy
      • While exploring a nearby hallway, Alejandro stumbles upon a terrifying mummified figure. His shouts alert the group, but they are unprepared for the horrors that follow.
    • Larkin’s Monologue and Transformation
      • Augustus Larkin, now revealed to be possessed by an ancient force, begins vomiting black goo and delivers a chilling speech. His glowing chest tattoo reveals his connection to something far darker than the group had anticipated.
    • Bessie, Emmerson and Ezekiel’s Descent into Madness
      • Bessie witnessed the terrifying sight of the mummy and fell into a state of hysteria. She screamed and denied the reality of what she saw, becoming temporarily incapacitated. She spent several rounds repeating, “This isn’t happening,” while trembling in the corner.
      • After seeing the mummy, Emerson became convinced it was a bull. He developed a new phobia of bulls, shouting about an imaginary bull and retreating into a corner.
      • Ezekiel lost his sanity and began firing his revolver uncontrollably. He couldn’t differentiate between allies and enemies for several rounds, and his shots went wild as he panicked during the fight with the mummy.
    • Omar’s Decisive Strike
      • In a moment of desperation, Omar uses his machete to deliver a critical strike, slicing open the mummy’s skull and revealing white worms crawling inside. His action is instrumental in weakening the creature.
    • Alejandro Seals the Temple
      • Alejandro returns a golden piece to the temple wall in a pivotal moment. His strength and quick thinking restore the temple, stopping the chaos, sealing the cracks, and allowing Larkin to die peacefully, free from the possession that had tormented him.

    Intermission: Preparing for New York

    • Four Years of Training
      • The group spends the next four years honing their skills in preparation for future challenges. Ezekiel focuses on medicine and first aid, while others, like Virginia, train with weapons. Letters are exchanged, but the group remains apart, preparing for what’s to come.
    • The Call from Jackson Elias
      • In 1925, the investigators received a telegram from Jackson Elias, who invited them to New York with crucial new information on the Carlyle Expedition. The team is called to gather on January 15, 1925, setting the stage for their next global adventure.

    As the dust settles in the Peruvian temple, the investigators emerge physically and mentally scarred. With Larkin’s death and the temple’s mysteries sealed, they are left to reflect on the horrors they have faced and the supernatural forces at play. Though victorious, their minds are fractured, and the reality of what they’ve encountered continues to haunt them.

    But their journey is far from over. As they prepare for their next chapter, a message from their old friend, Jackson Elias, brings new intrigue and challenges. The investigators are called to New York, where more profound mysteries surrounding the Carlyle Expedition await. The team must gather their strength, hone their skills, and brace for the dark unknown as their adventure crosses the ocean and into the heart of America. What lies ahead may be even more perilous than what they’ve left behind in Peru.

  • Session 4 – Peru – Arriving at the Temple

    Session 4 – Peru – Arriving at the Temple

    This is the 4th session of our adventure. If you want to get Masks of Nyarlathotep, please click the links below. It helps the channel out if you buy from these links!

    Masks of Nyarlathotep Adventure: https://amzn.to/3B0Ztt0

    Call of Cthulhu Investigators Handbook: https://amzn.to/4fHaRdi

    Call of Cthulhu Keeper Rulebook: https://amzn.to/4dilnpG

    I use Fantasy Grounds for the automation and Virtual Table Top; please check them out here: http://affiliates.fantasygrounds.com/361781/15958

    In this session, the investigators continue their journey through the treacherous Peruvian wilderness. After surviving the Kharisiri attack in Puno, they trek towards a mysterious pyramid deep in the jungle. Along the way, they encounter an injured boy and a wary farmer, Julio, who is helping to save the boy’s life. The group presses on toward their destination, but the journey proves more dangerous as strange creatures and unsettling discoveries emerge.

    kharisiri-puke

    Key Characters Introduced

    • Julio Cespedes: A Peruvian farmer whose son was nearly killed in a Kharisiri attack. Grateful for the group’s help, he provides them with food and shelter, warning them of the dangers ahead, especially the cursed pyramid.
    • Domingo Cespedes: The farmer’s boy, who had bite marks on his chest, was at the death’s door when the party found him.

    Key Events

    • Helping Julio’s Son:
      • The investigators encounter a young boy gravely injured from what appears to be a Kharisiri attack. Bessie expertly tends to the boy’s wounds, using the last of her medical supplies, saving his life. Julio, the boy’s father, is profoundly thankful and offers the group food and shelter for the night. During their stay, they learn more about the Kharisiri and the cursed pyramid they are approaching.
    • The Journey to the Pyramid:
      • After a restful night, the group resumes their journey toward the pyramid. Along the way, they face the challenges of altitude sickness, hunger, and a growing sense of dread as they witness the aftermath of the Kharisiri attacks.
    • The Creature at the Pyramid:
      • Upon arriving at the pyramid, the group spots a terrifying figure with a grotesquely distended stomach. The figure vomits a putrid white fluid into a crack in the pyramid’s structure before disappearing. Those who witnessed the sight struggled with their sanity, shaken by the strange ritual they had just seen.
    • Exploring the Pyramid’s Exterior:
      • The investigators approach the pyramid cautiously. They observe strange wind patterns, causing eerie whistling sounds as they pass through gaping mouths carved into the stone. Omar and Emerson make a disturbing discovery—a pit filled with bodies, some only a few days old, and a hidden tunnel at the bottom that appears to lead deeper underground.
    • Descent into the Pyramid:
      • The group enters the pyramid, some climbing down through shafts and some through the pit of dead bodies they found. As they make their way inside, the structure proves to be as treacherous as it is mysterious. Some fall through concealed shafts, landing in a short hallway within the pyramid’s depths.
    • Discovering the Kharisiri on their Beds
      • As the group ventures deeper into the pyramid, they come across a chamber that looks like a resting area filled with artifacts and gold. To their horror, they find two Kharisiri lying on makeshift beds, their grotesque, pale bodies still and silent, as if in some form of hibernation. The investigators are torn between wanting to kill the creatures before they awaken and the fear of alerting anything else in the pyramid. After tense deliberation, they decide to kill them before they wake.
    • Encounter with the Larva:
      • Inside the pyramid, the investigators come face-to-face with the larva of the Kharisiri. These grotesque, worm-like creatures attacked Bessie as she entered the pool of fat. The investigators realize these larvae are likely responsible for the Kharisiri’s ability to spread their parasitic curse.

    Standout Moments

    • Bessie’s calm and collected demeanor while tending to Julio’s son demonstrates her medical expertise. She earns the group the trust of the locals, who become an ally in their journey.
    • The grotesque sight of the distended creature vomiting white fluid into the pyramid’s crack was a moment of sheer terror, forcing multiple investigators to make sanity rolls.
    • Omar’s discovery of the hidden tunnel beneath a pit of bodies was a chilling realization, signaling they would face even darker horrors ahead.
    • The group’s entry into the pyramid’s lower chambers is tense, especially as they come into contact with the sleeping Kharisiri and grotesque larva wriggling in the pool of fat.

    As the investigators navigate the labyrinthine depths of the cursed pyramid, they face horrors beyond their imagination—from grotesque larvae writhing in the pool of fat to the unsettling sight of dormant Kharisiri. With every step deeper into the ancient structure, the danger increases, and the group realizes that the true heart of this mystery may be far darker than they had ever anticipated. What other secrets—and terrors—lie ahead, waiting for them in the shadows? Only time will tell, but the investigators know that retreat is no longer an option.