Tag: Role Playing

The investigators continued their perilous journey through Shanghai, chasing leads that tied the mysterious Dark Mistress to a powerful cult. Their search led them to Fergus, a wary bartender who revealed the existence of the Order of the Bloated Woman and its feared leader, Ho Fang. After a brief respite of rest and shopping, the group pressed deeper into danger, ultimately breaking into Ho Fang’s warehouse, where new secrets and new threats awaited.

Key Characters Introduced

• Fergus Chum: Bartender at the Stumbling Tiger Bar who distrusts outsiders but eventually reveals information about the local cult.
• The Order of the Bloated Woman: Cult revealed during the session, feared in Shanghai and connected to sinister activities.
• Ho Fang: Powerful Shanghai figure, suspected leader of the cult, with influence tied to a warehouse on the Whangpoo River.

Key Events

1. Observation of the Dark Mistress
   • The group spent the early morning hours watching the ship. They noticed its industrial, reinforced design, very different from other local vessels, and saw it depart Shanghai. This raised immediate suspicion about its purpose and its crew.
2. Following the Crewman into Shanghai
   • Bessie, Virginia, and Ezekiel tailed one of the ship’s men to a house where he entered and extinguished the lights soon after. The team marked the address, giving them a potential lead to pursue later.
3. Meeting Fergus at the Stumbling Tiger Bar
   • At dawn, the party returned to meet Fergus, the bartender tied to their matchbook clue. After some awkward exchanges, Fergus reluctantly shared the cultist’s details with the party, being especially wary of Percy. His information confirmed their suspicions of a larger network in Shanghai.
4. Revelation of the Order of the Bloated Woman
   • Fergus revealed the cult’s name and its leader, Ho Fang. He explained that they controlled the Dark Mistress and spread fear throughout Shanghai. This marked a turning point, providing investigators with a concrete enemy and faction to pursue.
5. Link to Sir Aubrey Penhew
   • A visit to the British Consulate revealed the Dark Mistress was registered to Sir Aubrey Penhew, a member of the infamous Carlyle Expedition believed to be dead. This shocking discovery tied their current investigation back to the global conspiracy.
6. Rest and Resupply at the Palace Hotel
   • After being awake all night, the investigators took much-needed rest. This scene emphasized Call of Cthulhu’s mechanic of exhaustion and gave time for character interactions, including shopping for clothes, books, and supplies.
7. Planning and Suspicion Around Short Round (Li Wen Chen)
   • Doubts grew about their local guide, Short Round, as some investigators suspected his intentions were not entirely trustworthy. Fergus later confirmed that Li Wen was a legitimate guide, but tensions within the party persisted regarding their trust in him.
8. Staking Out Ho Fang’s Warehouse
   • The team discovered Ho Fang’s warehouse along the river. They noticed a second ship, the Luxuriant Goddess, moored nearby. Both the location and the vessel hinted at larger cult operations and wealth.
9. Breaking into the Warehouse
   • Under the cover of darkness, Omar picked the lock to the warehouse. Inside, they discovered multiple offices filled with shipping papers and documents, which Omar photographed. This party believed that cult activity was hidden behind legitimate trade.

Standout Moments

• Omar: Boldly picked the lock to Ho Fang’s warehouse, opening the way for the investigators to uncover hidden evidence of cult operations.
• Virginia: Shined her flashlight to guide the party inside the warehouse, discovered an office full of papers, and set them up for Omar to photograph.
• Ezekiel: Joined Emerson in forming a “book club,” spending downtime poring over Mythos texts, showing his scholarly focus amidst the chaos.
• Bessie: Secured valuable supplies during the shopping trip, including a new dress and essentials like batteries, proving her practicality and foresight.
• Emerson: Stood guard and kept a watchful eye outside and inside the warehouse, embodying his role as the party’s protector during their risky infiltration.
• Percy: Ventured upstairs alone, uncovering a loose stair with light glowing beneath it. His discovery closed the session on a tense cliffhanger, making his moment the most significant.

Session 23 in Shanghai took the investigators deeper into the city’s shadows, where whispered cult names and hidden ledgers hinted at a larger conspiracy. Fergus’s uneasy cooperation confirmed what they had feared: the Order of the Bloated Woman holds sway in Shanghai, with Ho Fang and his warehouse at the center of its influence. Each step drew the party closer to danger, yet also closer to the truth.

The session ended on a knife’s edge, with Percy alone upstairs, discovering a loose stair hiding a strange glow beneath it. What secrets lie beneath Ho Fang’s warehouse, and how far will the cult’s influence reach? The answers await in the next chapter of their perilous journey through Masks of Nyarlathotep.

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

The investigators finally arrive in Shanghai, following the tangled trail of the Carlyle Expedition and Jackson Elias’s clues. Guided by a new contact, they settle into the city and begin unraveling its dangers. Their search quickly leads them to the Stumbling Tiger Bar, where hidden eyes watch their every move, and then to the docks, where they discover the mysterious ship Dark Mistress. With tensions rising and cult activity lurking in the shadows, the group edges closer to uncovering Shanghai’s dark secrets.

Key Characters Introduced

• Li Wen-Cheng (“Short Round”) – A young Chinese comprador sent by Carlton Ramsey, he meets the investigators at the Shanghai docks with a letter of introduction and offers to act as their translator and guide.
• Fergus Chum, Bartender of the Stumbling Tiger Bar – The cautious and nervous owner who pretends not to know anything about Jackson Elias or the Carlyle Expedition but secretly arranges a meeting after the investigators press him.
• Suspicious Patrons at the Stumbling Tiger Bar – Several shadowy figures scattered through the bar who watch the investigators closely, with one feigning drunkenness while observing the group.
• Guards of the Dark Mistress – British-looking men with unsettling appearances who stand watch over the ship at the Shanghai docks; Omar notices their strange, almost poisoned or unnatural eyes.

Key Events

1. Recap and Arrival in Shanghai
   • The Keeper reviews the journey so far, including the Carlyle Expedition, Jackson Elias’s death, and the cults tied to Nyarlathotep.
   • The investigators disembark in Shanghai, carrying clues such as the matchbook from the Stumbling Tiger Bar and the photo of a mysterious ship.
2. Meeting Meeting Li Wen-Cheng (“Short Round”)
   • At the docks, the group meets Li Wen, a comprador arranged by Carlton Ramsey to serve as translator and local guide.
   • Emerson grows suspicious, but Bessie confirms the legitimacy of his letter through her legal expertise.
   • The party debates whether to trust him but accepts his help for now.
3. Settling into Shanghai and Strange Encounters
   • Li Wen arranges rooms for the investigators at the Palace Hotel, where they enjoy unfamiliar Chinese dishes.
   • Omar discovers and panics over his embarrassing tattoo, providing comic relief.
   • The party begins plotting their first steps in the city, focusing on the clues pointing to the Stumbling Tiger Bar.
4. Visiting the Stumbling Tiger Bar
   • The group locates the Stumbling Tiger Bar using the matchbook found on Jackson Elias, they travel there by riverboat, taking in Shanghai’s bustling harbor along the way.
   • Inside, Omar insults the locals by loudly asking for “sake” instead of ordering baijiu, drawing annoyed stares.
   • Several suspicious patrons are spotted: three individuals scanning the room without drinking, and one man faking drunkenness while watching the party.
   • Emerson and Percy step outside to draft a note, then return to discreetly slip it to the bartender. Percy flubs the roll and Omar distracts one of the watchers by showing off his ridiculous tattoo, which unexpectedly works.
   • The bartender, clearly frightened, whispers a secret meeting time to Ezekiel: 5:00 a.m. the following morning at the bar.
5. Discovery of the Dark Mistress
   • After leaving the bar, the group notices a ship docked nearby with the name Dark Mistress, matching the photo they carried.
   • Omar approaches the guards on patrol at the boat and dock, looking distinctly British yet sickly.
   • The investigators split up: Emerson and Percy stake out the Dark Mistress while the others follow a man leaving the boat.
6. Following A Man
   • Omar spots the man that left the boat slipping into a side street, and the pursuing group follows him to a suspicious house at the edge of Shanghai.
7. Session Close
   • The rain begins to fall as the group debates their next move.
   • The session ends with the investigators poised between two dangerous leads: the guarded ship Dark Mistress and the mysterious house tied to its crew.

Standout Moments

• Virginia – Casually sipping whiskey, she keenly observes that suspicious patrons are watching Bessie and Ezekiel, helping the group spot danger inside the Stumbling Tiger Bar.
• Percy – Joins Emerson in writing and delivering a secret note to the bartender, risking exposure to get vital information.
• Bessie – Uses her legal expertise to confirm the authenticity of Li Wen’s letter, convincing the others that he is a legitimate ally.
• Emerson – Tries to bribe the bartender for information on Jackson Elias, triggering the man’s nervous response and alerting the group to hidden dangers.
• Ezekiel – Receives the whispered message from the bartender, securing a secret meeting time that propels the Shanghai investigation forward.
• Omar – Distracts a suspicious watcher in the bar by flashing his embarrassing tattoo, turning ridicule into a clever diversion that prevents the group from being exposed.

The investigators’ first night in Shanghai proved anything but simple. What began with a cautious welcome from their new guide quickly spiraled into tense encounters at the Stumbling Tiger Bar. Surrounded by hidden eyes and shadowy figures, the group had to rely on sharp instincts, bold improvisation, and even questionable tattoos to avoid disaster. Their persistence earned them a secret meeting and confirmed that Shanghai holds both answers and new dangers.

With the sighting of the mysterious ship Dark Mistress and the trail of a suspicious figure leading into the city, the stakes have risen once again. Shanghai is alive with secrets, and every step could draw the investigators deeper into the web of Nyarlathotep’s cults. The coming session promises confrontation, discovery, and perhaps the unraveling of truths better left hidden.

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

In this session of Masks of Nyarlathotep, the investigators made a daring escape from Omar’s Egyptian plantation after looting his library and safe for critical clues. Their flight led to a tense, though comically inept, encounter with armed guards before they regrouped at their Cairo hotel. With new leads pointing toward Shanghai, the group secured passage aboard a month-long ocean voyage, where they recovered from injuries, studied forbidden tomes, and stirred up trouble among the passengers by the time they docked in China, madness, obsessions, and uneasy alliances had set in along with the suspicious welcome of a stranger claiming to be sent by an old ally’s lawyer.

Key Characters Introduced

• Short Round – A young Chinese boy who greets the investigators upon arrival in Shanghai, claiming to be sent by Jackson Elias’s lawyer to escort them to their hotel.

Key Events

1. Escape from Omar’s Plantation
   • Guards spot them crossing the grounds, but a series of fumbles leaves the enemies tripping over each other.
   • The party flees back to their Cairo hotel without further incident.
2. Reviewing Clues in Cairo
   • They examine a matchbook from a suspicious bar and a blurry photograph showing a vessel marked “DAR.”
   • Papers reveal Egyptian artifacts being shipped to Ho Fang Import & Export in Shanghai and Randolph Shipping in Australia.
   • Debate ensues over which lead to pursue next, with Shanghai chosen as the destination.
3. Securing Passage to China
   • Mahmoud arranges ship tickets for the party.
   • A booking error nearly sends Percy to Japan instead of China.
   • Percy manages to switch tickets after some fast-talking, though at an extra cost.
4. Life Aboard Ship – Four Weeks at Sea
   • Percy studies Cantonese and tries (unsuccessfully) to charm a passenger.
   • Omar charms the crew, discovers a hidden drug stash, and throws a wild party.
   • Bessie experiments with mysterious substances, improving her pharmacy skills and reprogramming Percy to stop calling her “sir.”
   • Virginia reads Life as a God, uncovering dark lore about the Black Pharaoh and developing a troubling obsession.
   • Emerson studies the Pneumonic Manuscripts, learns a dangerous spell, and suffers a bout of madness.
   • Ezekiel attempts to regain sanity but instead develops a new compulsion.
5. Disappearance and Recovery of Emerson
   • Emerson disappears for several days toward the end of the voyage.
   • Omar and Ezekiel eventually find him hiding in a ship’s bathroom.
   • Emerson emerges with a new mania, Amaxomania, A compulsion or over-desire to be in vehicles, such as automobiles or buses..
6. Arrival in Shanghai
   • The investigators disembark and are approached by a young man named Short Round.
   • He claims to be sent by Jackson Elias’s lawyer to escort them to a prearranged hotel.
   • The session ends with the party following him, uncertain if he is friend or foe.

Standout Moments

• Omar – Discovered the ship’s secret liquor stash, unlocking a trove of booze and other contraband, then hosted an unforgettable party that became the voyage’s highlight.
• Emerson – Immersed himself in the Pneumonic Manuscripts, learned a forbidden spell, and spiraled into a bout of madness that left him hiding in a ship’s bathroom for days.
• Bessie – Conducted bold chemical experiments with mysterious samples and heroin, honing her pharmacy skills while successfully reprogramming Percy to stop calling her “sir.”
• Ezekiel – Tried to restore his sanity through reflection on his archaeological roots, but instead developed a troubling compulsion that will haunt him in future sessions.
• Virginia – Delved deep into Life as a God, uncovering disturbing lore about the Black Pharaoh’s throne room and gaining a new, potentially dangerous obsession.
• Percy – Nearly ended up on the wrong ship bound for Japan, then salvaged the mistake with fast-talking, securing his place on the China voyage alongside the rest of the team.

With their month-long voyage behind them, the investigators arrive in Shanghai carrying more than just luggage. Each member of the party has been transformed by the journey, either acquiring hard-earned skills, making unsettling discoveries, or suffering mental scars that may shape the battles ahead. The camaraderie forged over Omar’s legendary party contrasts sharply with the shadows cast by cursed tomes, creeping obsessions, and bouts of madness that hint at the dangers still lurking on the horizon.

Now, in this bustling and unfamiliar city, a mysterious stranger offers them guidance, but his true intentions remain uncertain. Whether Short Round is a much-needed ally or the opening move in yet another deadly trap, the next chapter of their investigation promises intrigue, peril, and the ever-present influence of Nyarlathotep. The road or rickshaw forward is set, and the fate of the party may hinge on the choices they make next.

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

After a long hiatus, our investigators plunged back into the black heart of Egypt’s mythic dread. Deep within the pyramid’s cursed chambers, the group faced the terrifying consequences of awakening an ancient power. In the last session, with the ominous arrival of Nyarlathotep in his Black Pharaoh guise, Alejandro met a dramatic and final fate, his body reduced to dust, leaving behind only a mysterious girdle and a lingering sense of betrayal.

As the remaining investigators struggled with grief and confusion, they scrambled to collect Alejandro’s remains and interpret the cryptic warnings about three ritual sites that could spell the world’s end. But there was no time to mourn, dark cultists closed in, torches flickering in the gloom, and steel clashed in a deadly confrontation. The fight for survival in the tomb had begun..

Key Characters Introduced

• Cultists in Robes – A group of five hostile figures encountered near the pyramid entrance, emerging with torches and swords, demanding answers and quickly engaging in battle.
• Percy – Introduced at the end of the session, a marine and old friend of Jackson Elias, who arrives through the tunnels to reinforce the investigators.
• Omar al-Shakti – The elusive and powerful head of the Brotherhood of the Black Pharaoh, finally confirmed as a major antagonist.
• Armed Plantation Guards – Described as patrolling with guns and flashlights near the main building, likely cultists or loyal to al-Shakti, they present a real threat to the investigators as they stealthily approach under the cover of night.
• Mysterious Workers – Though not named, the plantation staff are implied to be either cultists or deeply fearful locals, hinted at in their eerie silence and disciplined movements. Their subdued behavior adds to the tense atmosphere.

Key Events

1. Return to the Pyramid and Recap
   • The session begins with players reconnecting after a break and reorienting to the story.
   • The group is reminded that they activated a portal in the pyramid, resulting in the manifestation of Nyarlathotep as the Black Pharaoh.
   • They are reminded of three ritual sites associated with Nyarlathotep’s arrival.
2. Alejandro’s Transformation and Death
   • Alejandro merges with Nyarlathotep, giving himself entirely to the malevolent deity, crumbling into a pile of dust, leaving behind only Queen Nitocris’ girdle while his gear, weapons, clothes, and even his backpack are entirely consumed.
   • Bessy gathers and stores what remains of the “Dust of Alejandro” in one of her alcohol containers, uncertain whether it’s ash, powder, or whatever it is has some other worldly properties.
3. Emotional Fallout and Mourning
   • Omar mourns Alejandro with a symbolic liquor pour and makes the sign of the cross.
   • Emerson jokes and muses about Alejandro’s transformation, creating a contrast between grief and dark humor.
   • Several investigators reflect on whether Alejandro’s final act was noble, foolish, or damned.
4. Mysterious Cultist Movement to the North
   • The group hears shuffling and movement to the north, the same direction from which cultists previously approached.
   • Flashlights are checked, torches are improvised using bones and cloth soaked in alcohol.
   • A battle ensues where Percy show’s up to shoot 3 of the cultists dead.
   • Percy shows the party an escape route, and they run from the pyramid.
5. Arrival at Omar al-Shakti’s Plantation
   • After escaping and regrouping, the party arrives at Omar al-Shakti’s plantation.
   • They observe armed guards with rifles and flashlights patrolling the grounds.
   • The investigators plan a stealthy infiltration and debate splitting up, sneaking in, or observing first.
6. Discoveries Inside Omar al-Shakti’s Plantation
   • Business records, including a log book, showing the last 5 years of shipments of ancient Egyptian artifacts sent to Ho Fang Import/Export in Shanghai and the Randolph Shipping Company in Australia.
   • 250 Egyptian Pounds.
   • Edward Gavigan’s business card, identical to the one found in Jackson Elias’ New York hotel room.
   • A receipt with initials’ A.P.’ regarding a scarab brooch.

Standout Moments

• Emerson – Accidentally launched his magical sword across the chamber while trying to be stealthy, triggering combat with the cultists.
• Virginia – Tried to bluff the cultists as a lost tourist, got slashed in return, then shot her attacker point-blank and disappeared into the darkness.
• Ezekiel – Landed two clean shots in the firefight, nearly dropping a cultist in a controlled and efficient display.
• Bessie – Tried to support Virginia’s bluff, failed comically, then panicked and shouted “I choked!” while fleeing mid-gunfire.
• Omar – Delivered a solemn ritual farewell to Alejandro with a liquor pour and cross, then questioned the fallen’s salvation, while taking a short nap in between various parts of the session, in Omar’s signature style.
• Percy – Dramatically entered mid-session as a new investigator, bringing military energy and discipline to a team in disarray.

With the death of Alejandro still lingering heavily, and the echoes of cultist blades fresh in their minds, the investigators have narrowly survived another brush with the Black Pharaoh’s influence. The tomb’s darkness gave way to gunfire, loss, and the sobering confirmation that their enemies were not only numerous but also deeply entrenched in the world above. Omar al-Shakti’s plantation revealed the cult’s reach into the daylight world.

But there’s no time to grieve. With clues in hand and the girdle secured, the investigators now turn their eyes eastward to Shanghai, China. What awaits them there is unknown, but with cultist networks spanning continents and the pieces of Nyarlathotep’s Great Plan falling into place, the stakes are climbing faster than they can run. The descent into madness or triumph against Nyarlathotep has just started to heat up!

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

In this chilling installment, the investigators delve deeper into the heart of the Great Chamber beneath the Pyramid, confronting eerie mysteries that defy both science and sanity. As they examine the uncanny preservation of Queen Nitocris’s mummy and the swirling, inky black portal embedded in the chamber wall, tensions rise and theories abound. Magic stirs, relics shimmer, and unsettling sounds from the darkness signal that they are not alone. With each step, the line between the rational and the unknowable blurs, setting the stage for a confrontation with forces far beyond human comprehension.

Key Characters Introduced

• Queen Nitocris’s Mummy – The preserved body of the ancient queen lies on a platform behind the throne; her unnaturally pristine condition raises alarm and curiosity.
• Nyarlathotep as the Black Pharoah – The Crawling Chaos makes his presence known through him appearing on the throne as the Black Pharoah, marking a terrifying escalation in the investigators’ journey.
• Unknown Presence to the North – The investigators hear approaching footsteps and movement echoing from the northern tunnel, suggesting that something—or someone—is coming, but they do not yet know who or what it was.

Key Events

1. The Mummy of Queen Nitocris is Examined
   • The investigators closely inspect the ancient mummy on a black ebony platform.
   • Bessie notes the unnatural preservation of skin and teeth—far too pristine for a 4,000-year-old corpse.
   • Alejandro pokes the mummy’s abdomen and senses something solid inside, which should be impossible given traditional mummification practices.
   • Attempts to cut or damage the wrappings with knives fail; the cloth seems impervious.
2. Clues Suggest Supernatural Protection
   • Ezekiel recalls ancient texts about protections used in Egyptian burial rites.
   • He deduces that special rituals may be required to pierce the mummy’s wrappings.
   • Even Bessie’s attempt to collect a skin sample results in no success—the mummy’s flesh resists all efforts.
3. The Party Encounters the Inky Black Portal
   • Behind the throne, a massive swirling black circle pulses with an otherworldly energy.
   • Emerson places his hand on it and is unable to pull it away, becoming physically stuck to the portal wall; it takes the strength of multiple investigators to pull him free.
   • The portal feels cold and solid like stone, but its surface undulates with liquid-like ripples.
   • The group recognizes that the portal may be selective in its interactions with living matter.
4. They Test the Portal Using the Mummy
   • The investigators drag Queen Nitocris’s mummy to the portal to test its effect on her.
   • Multiple party members attempt to push her into it, punch her, and observe for any reaction—none occurs.
   • The mummy remains inert, behaving like a weighted training dummy, regardless of their efforts.
5. Voices and Footsteps Are Heard Approaching
   • Bessie and Ezekiel hear faint movement and murmuring sounds from the northern corridor.
   • The group begins preparing for potential combat, drawing weapons and positioning themselves defensively.
6. Nyarlathotep Speaks and Alejandro Dies
   • The presence of Nyarlathotep manifests as the Black Pharaoh, speaking to the investigators.
   • The tone, words, and timing hint at a climactic turning point in their descent into the mythos.
   • In a climactic and horrifying moment, Nyarlathotep claims Alejandro’s soul, crumpling his body and turning it into a heap of ash as the rest of the party watches in shock and horror.

Standout Moments

• Alejandro
  • Sacrificed his soul to Nyarlathotep during the terrifying climax of the session, his body left vacant as the entity took hold, shocking the entire group.
• Bessy
  • Dragged Queen Nitocris’s mummy across the chamber by herself with sheer determination, then tried to analyze and pierce the mummy’s unnaturally preserved skin despite supernatural resistance.
• Emerson
  • Got physically stuck to the inky black portal wall, requiring the group to pull him free, and later joined in comically and scientifically testing the mummy’s interaction with the portal.
• Ezekiel
  • Identified magical protections surrounding the mummy and recalled arcane knowledge that pointed to ancient rituals being required to breach the wrappings.
• Virginia
  • Lit the chamber with her flashlight, helped guide Emerson through the darkness, and kept a keen watch as events spiraled toward an encounter with Nyarlathotep.
• Omar
  • Attempted to test the mummy’s response to chemical spray (flit) and pushed for experimental interactions, adding a quirky but earnest scientific curiosity to the group’s investigation.

As the dust settles in the torchlit chamber, the investigators are left reeling from their brush with the supernatural. The mummy of Queen Nitocris remains a sealed enigma, resistant to blades, science, and reason itself. The black portal pulses with unnatural life, and worse still, Nyarlathotep has made his presence known—not with a scream, but with a whisper that stole Alejandro’s very soul. What began as an archaeological mystery has become a battle for sanity and survival.

With threats echoing from the northern corridor and a cosmic entity now directly engaged, the party faces a harrowing decision: confront what lies beyond the veil or retreat with what little humanity they have left. One thing is certain—after this night, nothing will ever be the same.

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

In this suspenseful chapter of our Masks of Nyarlathotep journey, the investigators descend into a shadowy, subterranean hall marked by slick ebony floors, bizarrely twisted pillars, and an unsettling red mist concealing a staircase into mysteries below. As whispers, moans, and eerie sounds drift upward from unseen depths, Alejandro boldly ventures forward, only to collapse mysteriously amidst the swirling haze, sparking frantic rescue efforts and desperate magical intervention. With strange forces at play and sanity unraveling, the group cautiously explores the chamber, confronting unnatural phenomena, hidden dangers, and the growing dread that something sinister awaits beneath the surface.

Key Characters Introduced

• The mummy of Queen Nitocris – The investigators spotted a glowing green ceremonial platform topped with an ancient casket, believed to contain the remains of Queen Nitocris, hinting at her lingering influence and the dark rites connected to her resurrection.

Key Events

1. Exploration of the Grand Ebony Hall
   • The party enters a vast underground chamber with ebon marble floors and towering columns made of the same material.
   • The room is dimly lit by torchlight in a few areas, with visibility limited by darkness at the edges.
   • Strange architecture twists into unnatural shapes, and sound echoes hauntingly throughout the space.
   • A mysterious ceremonial platform with a glowing green light and a casket is spotted—possibly the resting place of Queen Nitocris.
2. The Red Mist Staircase
   • A grand staircase descends into a dense red mist that obscures vision and emits unsettling sounds.
   • Whispers, moans, and shrieks rise from the mist, unnerving the group.
   • Emerson warns the party about possible dangers in mist-filled enclosed spaces, likening it to CO₂ poisoning on ships.
3. Alejandro’s Descent and Collapse
   • Alejandro boldly descends the staircase without proper protection.
   • The red mist irritates his lungs, but he insists it’s fine—until he vanishes below and a loud thump is heard.
   • The party fears he has collapsed or worse.
4. Ezekiel’s Desperate Use of Magic
   • To save Alejandro, Ezekiel casts a protective spell, forming a massive shimmering force barrier 100 yards in diameter.
   • The magic repels the red mist long enough to reveal Alejandro unconscious at the bottom.
   • Ezekiel suffers temporary insanity and amnesia from the strain of casting the spell.
   • He forgets recent events and is confused about why they’re not still eating breakfast.
5. Rescue and Recovery
   • With the mist temporarily pushed back, the team rushes down and finds Alejandro propped up against an invisible barrier.
   • They pull him back to safety before the mist returns.
   • Once conscious, Alejandro recalls disturbing visions in the mist—dead bodies and screaming faces.
6. Investigation of the Chamber’s Features
   • The group notices the ceremonial platform glowing green and suspects it holds the mummy of Queen Nitocris.
   • They also discover a black pool with a tethered wooden raft and a gondola-like pole.
   • The pool appears inky and impenetrable to light, prompting the group to test its properties.
   • Bessie and Alejandro board the raft; Omar spots footprints, suggesting previous use.
   • Suspicion grows that the raft is intended for ritualistic passage—or something worse.

Standout Moments

• Alejandro
  • Alejandro volunteered to explore the eerie mist-filled staircase alone, only to pass out dramatically, becoming the catalyst for a major rescue and magical intervention.
• Bessy
  • With fearless curiosity, Bessy stepped onto the strange wooden raft floating on an inky underground pool, determined to uncover its purpose.
• Virginia
  • Virginia’s flashlight and foresight to bring spare batteries helped the group navigate the oppressive darkness, and her level-headedness grounded the team amidst growing fear.
• Omar
  • Omar slipped away from the group and moved with near-invisibility, prompting confusion and concern as the rest of the party realized they had no idea where he went.
• Ezekiel
  • In a desperate act, Ezekiel tapped into forbidden magic, creating a massive force field to repel the deadly mist—at the cost of his own sanity and a temporary bout of amnesia.
• Emerson
  • Emerson clung to his skepticism until even he admitted something supernatural was afoot, delivering a chilling reminder: “If you don’t believe there’s worse stuff going on, you haven’t been paying attention.”

As the investigators inch deeper into the heart of this subterranean nightmare, the dangers become more surreal, the air more toxic—both literally and figuratively—and the sanity of the party ever more fragile. With ancient horrors lurking behind every twisted pillar and the ominous casket of Queen Nitocris pulsing with grim portent, the choices ahead are not yet clear: but one thing is they will descend further into the unknown and find a way to survive the truths already uncovered.

Session 18 leaves us with more questions than answers. What secrets lie within the coffin? What force animates the red mist? And just how far will the investigators go—physically and mentally—to stop what’s coming? The deeper they go, the darker it gets. Stay tuned.

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

In this tense and intriguing session of Masks of Nyarlathotep, the investigators found themselves navigating the complexities of Cairo and the mysterious pyramids of Giza. The team decided to investigate further by visiting the pyramids. Their attempts to interact with Dr. Henry Clive of the Clive Expedition quickly turned sour, leading to an awkward confrontation and forced retreat.

After regrouping, the investigators cleverly disguised themselves as tourists, scouting the pyramids’ vicinity and discovering hidden footprints leading to a secluded location. Determined to uncover more secrets, the team planned a stealthy return under the cover of night, preparing themselves for whatever ancient horrors await beneath the Egyptian sands.

Key Characters Introduced

• Dr. Henry Clive – The stern leader of the Clive Expedition encountered at the Giza dig site who swiftly dismissed the investigators and demanded they leave. Also found his signature on some of the paperwork stolen by Ezekiel.
• Martin Winfield – One of the individuals whose signature appeared in the financial documents Ezekiel took from Dr. Clive’s office.
• James Gardner – Another name discovered on financial paperwork stolen by Ezekiel from the Clive Expedition’s administrative building.

Key Events

1. Confrontation with Dr. Henry Clive
   • Bessie attempts unsuccessfully to guide diggers toward discovering something noteworthy.
   • Dr. Henry Clive, leader of the Clive Expedition, confronts the investigators about trespassing at the dig site.
   • Alejandro humorously tries and fails to bluff his way in, claiming authority from a nonexistent “Pyramid Inspection Bureau.”
   • Emerson and Virginia attempt to smooth things over by mentioning Jackson Elias and the Carlyle Expedition, noticing subtle, suspicious reactions from Dr. Clive.
   • The team draws attention quickly, prompting a direct encounter with authorities.
2. Ezekiel Steals Important Documents
   • Amid the confrontation, Ezekiel stealthily slips away into the Clive Expedition’s administrative building.
   • Successfully grabs financial documents and signatures belonging to Dr. Clive, Martin Winfield, and James Gardner.
   • Ezekiel narrowly escapes detection and rejoins the group just as authorities force them to leave.
3. Team Regroups and Discusses Next Steps
   • Returning briefly to Cairo, the investigators examine Ezekiel’s stolen documents, finding mostly financial records.
   • Mahmoud joins them again, though Emerson grows suspicious and bluntly questions Mahmoud’s allegiance to the Brotherhood, creating tension.
   • Team discusses forging signatures from documents but acknowledges their lack of skill to do so convincingly.
4. Second Visit to Pyramids as Tourists
   • Investigators disguise themselves as tourists to avoid earlier detection issues.
   • Alejandro humorously interacts with a local tour guide, who invents bizarre stories involving aliens and teleportation to earn money.
   • Omar stealthily graffiti-tags one of the pyramids without being noticed.
5. Discovery of Secret Footprints and Planning Night Raid
   • Bessie discovers hidden footprints leading away from the main tourist area toward an isolated building.
   • Realizing they cannot investigate openly during daylight without suspicion, the group decides to return under cover of night.
   • Ezekiel skillfully conceals the team as tourists depart, successfully positioning the investigators to explore unnoticed after dark, thus finding secret tunnels in the desert.
6. Navigating the Pyramid Tunnels
   • Investigators cautiously moved through winding, disorienting tunnels beneath the pyramids, marking their path with shoe polish to avoid becoming lost.
   • The group encountered an overpowering stench of decay, causing several members to become nauseated.
7. Encounter with the Children of the Sphinx
   • The party was attacked by two creatures, one of them looked like a crocodile-headed humanoid and an eagle-headed humanoid.
   • Alejandro decisively ended the threat, skillfully dispatching the creatures with precise gunfire.
8. Entering the Great Chamber
   • After surviving their harrowing battle, the group emerged into an enormous and eerie chamber.
   • They saw a vast hall with black marble floors, columns twisted into unsettling shapes, and a mysterious central pool with a raft moored nearby.
   • At the chamber’s far end, a large dais and a monumental throne carved from black marble loomed ominously, behind which lay a massive hole of impenetrable darkness, indicating deeper mysteries to uncover.

Standout Moments

• Ezekiel – Skillfully infiltrated Dr. Clive’s administrative building, stealthily stealing valuable financial records without being detected.
• Alejandro – Humorously attempted to bluff Dr. Clive by claiming authority from the fictional “Pyramid Inspection Bureau,” though he failed spectacularly.
• Bessie – Sharply spotted hidden footprints leading toward a concealed location near the pyramids, setting the stage for the night mission.
• Virginia – Observed Dr. Clive’s subtle, suspicious reaction upon mentioning Jackson Elias and the Carlyle Expedition, revealing his deeper connections.
• Omar – Managed to graffiti the pyramids covertly, humorously leaving his mark without drawing attention.
• Alejandro (Combat Moment) – Took charge during the deadly encounter beneath the pyramids, swiftly and effectively eliminating the monstrous Children of the Sphinx.
• Emerson – Created awkward tension at lunch by openly questioning Mahmoud’s allegiance to the Brotherhood, reflecting growing paranoia and suspicion within the team.

As the investigators stand before the foreboding throne and peer into the abyssal darkness beyond, one thing is clear—what awaits them is more sinister and dangerous than anything they’ve faced before. Will their bravery carry them through the terrors beneath Giza, or will the ancient evils finally prove too much? Find out in our next chilling chapter of Masks of Nyarlathotep.

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

In this adrenaline-fueled session of our Masks of Nyarlathotep campaign, our intrepid band of investigators finds themselves in the heart of Cairo, unearthing a hidden mosque and its closely guarded relic. Between whispered rumors of a nefarious cult and tense midnight stakeouts, they soon discover that something far more horrific lurks beneath the city’s ancient streets. With the fate of a powerful artifact on the line, our heroes brace themselves to face both human conspirators and otherworldly monstrosities in a place where faith and fear collide.

Key Characters Introduced

• Ahmed al-Dhahabi– The dedicated caretaker of the mosque who reveals its secret artifact, meeting the investigators after a local worshipper vouches for them.
• Mosque Guardians – A trio of sword-wielding defenders sworn to protect the Girdle, first encountered in the hidden chambers during the serpent creature’s attack.
• Unnamed Worshipper – A passerby within the mosque who notices the foreigners and directs them to Ahmed, setting the stage for the group’s secret meeting.
• Serpent Creature – A monstrous being that emerges from the shadows to assault the guardians, confronting the investigators during their late-night watch.

Key Events

1. Arriving at the Mosque
   • The investigators split up to quietly survey the building’s exterior.
   • A curious local worshipper notices their presence and leads them to speak with Ahmed Al-Habi.
2. Revelation of the Girdle
   • Ahmed reveals that his mosque secretly guards the Girdle of Nitocris.
   • He explains the Brotherhood’s repeated attempts to seize the artifact.
   • The investigators agree to help protect the relic overnight.
3. Preparing for the Night Watch
   • The group arranges a system of shifts to monitor the mosque’s hidden chambers.
   • Each member settles into makeshift sleeping areas to rest between watch rotations.
   • Tension rises as they anticipate an impending assault by cult forces.
4. Serpent’s Sudden Attack
   • Strange scratching and clanging noises rouse the investigators during the final watch.
   • A monstrous serpent creature appears, attacking mosque guardians with frightening speed.
   • Gunfire and desperate melee ensue as the investigators fight alongside the mosque’s defenders.
5. Triumph and Aftermath
   • The combined effort of the investigators and guardians brings the serpent down.
   • Its body dissolves into a foul, smoking residue, leaving behind no solid remains.
   • With the immediate threat quelled, the investigators are left to wonder what new horrors the Brotherhood may unleash next.

Standout Moments

• Alejandro
  • Agrees to Emerson’s plan to pretend he’s mute, causing a few comedic confusions.
  • Unloads multiple shots into the serpent creature, only to discover its near-impervious hide.
• Bessie
  • Delivers the decisive point-blank shot that brings the serpent monster down.
  • Investigates the dissolving remains, undeterred by the bizarre and unsettling aftermath.
• Virginia
  • Connects the dots between this serpent and a past encounter in New York, warning the team of its deadly potential.
  • Helps organize the group’s watches and first discovers suspicious noises in the corridors.
• Emerson
  • Convinces Alejandro to maintain cover by feigning muteness, hoping for a subtle infiltration strategy.
  • Bravely leaps into the fray with his machete, despite suffering a string of near-miss attacks.
• Omar
  • Ever the intrepid documentarian, snaps a photo mid-battle—camera in one hand and crowbar in the other.
  • Wrestles with the culture shock in the mosque while brandishing his trusty stogie.
• Ezekiel
  • Stays focused during the late-night stakeout, ready to protect the Girdle at a moment’s notice.
  • Attempts several shots on the serpent, narrowly missing and highlighting just how elusive the creature is.

With the monstrous serpent slain and only a sludgy residue left behind, the investigators stand victorious—but the Brotherhood’s ambitions are far from dead. As rumors of other hidden artifacts and ever more dangerous horrors surface, our heroes must press on, knowing each victory only pulls them deeper into the labyrinthine mysteries of the Masks of Nyarlathotep. Prepare for more terrifying encounters, cunning cultists, and desperate acts of heroism in our next thrilling session.

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

In this session of Masks of Nyarlathotep, the investigators review important clues. They discussed the Brotherhood’s possible role in stealing the mummy of Queen Nitocris. They also talked about suspicious events around the local pyramids. Contacts in Cairo warned them about Omar Al Shak Shakti, the dangerous leader of the Brotherhood. The group thought about secretly investigating his plantation. Warren Besart shared disturbing stories about the supernatural fate of the Carlyle Expedition at the Bent Pyramid, highlighting the serious danger they faced.

The investigators then visited Dr. Ali Kafur at the Egyptian Museum. He gave them unsettling information about the Black Pharaoh. Dr. Kafur explained that ancient prophecies hinted the Black Pharaoh might soon return. This return could be connected to missing artifacts and Queen Nitocris’s stolen mummy. Dr. Kafur offered to help them understand some important texts they found. They agreed to meet again for further study. The session ended with the investigators feeling uneasy but determined to continue carefully.

Key Characters Introduced

• Dr. Ali Kafur – Egyptologist at the Egyptian Museum; knowledgeable about ancient Egyptian artifacts and myths, especially about the Black Pharaoh.
• Omar Al Shak Shakti – Leader of the dangerous Brotherhood cult in Cairo; owns a heavily guarded plantation.
• Queen Nitocris – Historical Egyptian queen whose stolen mummy may be crucial to the Black Pharaoh’s return (mentioned but not directly encountered).
• Nephren-Ka (the Black Pharaoh) – A legendary, evil figure linked to ancient prophecies and dangerous cults; central to the investigators’ current inquiry (mentioned but not directly encountered).
• Edward Gavigan – Current director of the Penhew Foundation, which is connected to suspicious activities and possibly involved with missing artifacts (mentioned but not directly encountered).

Key Events

1. Group Recap and Discussions in Cairo
   • Reviewed recent events involving Warren Besart and Faraz Najir.
   • Discussed the Brotherhood’s possible involvement in stealing Queen Nitocris’s mummy.
   • Considered plans to investigate Omar Al Shak Shakti’s plantation.
2. Meeting with Informant Mahmoud
   • Mahmoud provided information about Omar’s heavily guarded plantation.
   • Mahmoud warned the investigators about Omar’s dangerous reputation in Cairo.
3. Investigators Met Dr. Ali Kafur at the Egyptian Museum
   • Dr. Kafur warmly welcomed Ezekiel, indicating a prior acquaintance.
   • Shared detailed information about Nephren-Ka (the Black Pharaoh).
   • Explained the historical significance and prophecies related to Queen Nitocris.
   • Offered insight into stolen artifacts connected to potential supernatural events.
4. Important Information from Dr. Kafur
   • Mentioned the Carlyle Expedition’s interest in the Black Pharaoh.
   • Confirmed that Queen Nitocris’s stolen mummy could trigger Nephren-Ka’s return.
   • Revealed possible supernatural protections within the museum.
5. Agreement to Study Ancient Texts
   • Dr. Kafur agreed to help the group decipher significant occult texts.
   • Investigators debated which texts to study, choosing between two important manuscripts.
   • Scheduled multiple nights to study these texts in detail.

Standout Moments

1. Ezekiel – Reunited with Dr. Ali Kafur, deepening his understanding of the Black Pharaoh.
2. Emerson – Experienced an unsettling moment witnessing Dr. Kafur’s supernatural door-opening ritual.
3. Virginia – Learned critical details about the stolen mummy’s connection to prophecies from Dr. Kafur.
4. Alejandro – Successfully interpreted historical texts about the Black Pharaoh at the museum.
5. Bessie – Advocated for careful planning and caution about investigating Omar’s plantation.

As darkness settles over Cairo, the investigators find themselves edging closer to ancient secrets that carry both promise and peril. With every discovery, the veil between sanity and madness grows thinner, challenging their resolve. The stage is set for even darker revelations in the sessions ahead.

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

Welcome back, dear readers, to another installment of our globetrotting Call of Cthulhu campaign, Shadows of the Jackal. In our previous session, the investigators continued their exploration of Cairo, gathering clues about the elusive Brotherhood and the tangled past of the Carlyle Expedition. This time around, they dove headfirst into chaotic encounters, brandished a few too many weapons for Cairo’s comfort, and nearly torched a tailor’s shop along the way. Let’s unravel the latest mystery together!

Key Characters Introduced

• Udi – A local cloth merchant running a fine fabrics shop on the Street of Scorpions.
• Warren Besart – A gaunt, disheveled foreigner once connected to the Carlyle Expedition.
• Three Unnamed Strangers – A trio of local men whose identities and intentions remain unclear.

• Udi – A local cloth merchant running a fine fabrics shop on the Street of Scorpions.
• Warren Besart – A gaunt, disheveled foreigner once connected to the Carlyle Expedition.
• Three Unnamed Strangers – A trio of local men whose identities and intentions remain unclear.

Key Events

• Exploring the Fabric Shop
  • Bessie, Virginia, Omar, and Alejandro enter a local fabrics store on the Street of Scorpions.
  • Omar accidentally drops cigar ash on delicate cloth, causing a minor fire scare.
  • Bessie negotiates for a custom dress design and investigates the shop’s back rooms.
• Discovery of Warren Besart
  • Bessie finds a disheveled stranger hiding in a storage room.
  • He appears anxious, gaunt, and heavily under the influence of various substances.
  • The group engages him in conversation to learn more about his background and possible connections.
• Outside Confrontation
  • Emerson stands guard and notices three suspicious individuals repeatedly passing by.
  • Tensions rise as the strangers attempt to enter the shop.
  • Alejandro and Bessie brandish firearms, prompting the trio to back away and leave.
• Regroup at the Hotel
  • The investigators reconvene at their lodgings with new information and renewed concerns.
  • Mahmoud, the streetwise youth helping them navigate Cairo, joins them for a meal.
  • Plans form to further investigate Warren Besart’s revelations and prepare for any local threats.

Standout Moments

• Omar – Accidentally dropped cigar ash on fine cloth, sparking a small fire that he hastily concealed.
• Bessie – Ventured beyond the main store area and discovered Warren Besart hidden in the back room.
• Virginia – Used her charm to keep the anxious Besart calm and prevent him from fleeing in panic.
• Alejandro – Brandished a weapon in the street to intimidate potential cultists into backing down, almost getting himself in trouble in the meantime.
• Emerson – Stayed alert outside, first stalling suspicious strangers with small talk, then assisting in defusing the confrontation.
• Ezekiel – Rushed in to help restrain Warren Besart when he tried to bolt, adding to the group’s overall effort to keep the situation under control.

With tension mounting in the labyrinthine streets of Cairo, the group ends Session 14 with more questions than answers. The shadow of the Brotherhood looms, and a traumatized informant provides only fragmented warnings. What happens next may draw the investigators even deeper into the dark heart of Egypt’s hidden horrors.

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