Gateway Chronicle - April 1998

THE GATEWAY CHRONICLE
April 1998

WAR STORIES (March 1998)

A group of adventurers who are ‘regulars’ at the Ram’s Head were among those invited to the home of the Tarotmancer of Fallow Spire for a Masquerade. The adventurers found themselves in the midst of a gathering of some of the most peculiar individuals ever to visit Kaleth. The events of the day were shrouded in mystery so very little of what happened can be discussed openly in a forum such as this. If you are curious about the party you should ask someone who attended.
    One of the many entertainments offered to Zayven’s guests was something he called the ‘Laybrinth of Dreams’ which could only be visited by mages. Robin Goodfellow served as guide and told the tale of the exploration of the Laybrinth. Few who dared to enter are eager to discuss what went on but they admit to having discovered some kind of enemy lurking within that they were able to defeat.
    Toward the end of the evening Zayven began to involve many of his guests in the preparation of some kind of ritual. Some of his ‘brother mages’ created an enchanted cloth bearing a magical diagram that was rumored to have been completed by Risisin. Others discussed in secret the details of the inner workings of an imaginary mechanism. All of this was required to complete something called the ‘Nexus Configuration’ in order to obtain something called the ‘Dream Forge’.
    At the end of the day Zayven said his goodbyes and performed his ritual, using three Orbs of Power (two of which he had managed to acquire during the party) and the Nexus Configuration. The man in the monkey mask who had been questioning Zayven’s guests all day confronted the Tarotmancer and told him that he could complete the ritual and receive what he desired but if he did, he would be bound. Zayven chose to continue and was bound by strange magicks in full view of his guests with a spell that would unmake him if he misused the power he was about to receive.
    When the ritual was complete a gate opened and Zayven stepped through. The man in the monkey mask said that ‘it is done’ and followed him into the gate along with Zayven’s manservant and a striking young woman who had antagonized her host from the moment she arrived. A few moments later several of his remaining guests vanished, including the forbidding figure he referred to as ‘Death’ and a noblewoman who had given Zayven a faerie slave. Those that remained were seen to the door by Zayven’s guards.
    It was a strange evening full of high magic shaped by dark desires and few knew the significance of what Zayven had achieved but all knew that they had witnessed something whose full impact may truly be understood.

FROM THE BLACK DESK

I really enjoyed Session Twelve. It took a lot of work and a lot of people to put together but it was well worth it. Thanks to folks like Rob Wilson who was able to supply some remarkable set pieces for us and the effort put into so many of our costumes the event had a wonderfully dark look and feel.
    We had a late start, but not by much, and the rest of the event moved along right on schedule, ending at 10:00 sharp. In that six and a half hour period I indulged in nonstop roleplaying and had dozens of dramatic ‘scenes’. I got to menace, loom, laugh, tempt, flirt, mock, negotiate, meddle, torment, dance, blind, kiss, slap, seduce, yell, whisper and transcend the flesh. What more could I possibly hope for?
    My heartfelt thanks to Rob Wilson for contributing dozens of candles and the fabulous set dressing, to Vicki Martin (the Queen of Cool) for putting together my costume, to Shard for letting me borrow his belt, to Kurt and Vicki for letting us transform their home into a den of iniquity, to Tonya Angelus for preparing and serving our food, to Lou and Joanne for their ongoing support, to Jon Marcus for picking up the meat and for bringing his video camera, to Kelley Jordine for bringing the cheese, to Margaret for bringing her two headed troll and spider costumes, to Tom Dowd, Lori Ralston and Chad Brinkley for playing the ‘Planewalkers’, to Chad for serving as my manservant, to Tom Dowd for creating and conducting the ‘Proxy Tests’, to Rich Schaufuss, Dan Grendall and JoAnne Ciszewskifor putting together and running the ‘Outworld Expeditions’, to Kurt Martin for playing the ‘Dungeonmaster’ and for putting together and running the ‘Orb Expedition’, to Chad Brinkley and Aaron Loeb for designing the ‘Dreamtime Labyrinth’, to Aaron Loeb for playing Robin Goodfellow and running the Labyrinth, to Aaron, David, Chad, Margaret and Jason for traveling so far to come play with us, to Gail Peck for playing Zayven’s faithful housecat (and Newts love interest), to Robyn Tish for playing the faerie slave, to Dig Freedman for playing ‘Vermin’, to Rich Gray for playing a guardsman, to Josh ?? for playing Newt, to Eileen for waiting in her minivan, to my good lady wife for playing Zayven’s plaything and to all of Zayvens guests for their work on their masks and costumes.
    At the end of the game I gave out the first annual Black Mike Awards. These awards are intended to recognize some of the outstanding players, characters and events of the past year. Some are jokes but others were intended to acknowledge real accomplishments and in many cases were long overdue. Most of the recipients of the ‘serious’ awards received bonus karma or experience points (save those who had already been awarded for their accomplishment in some other way). The following is a summary of the Black Mike recipients for 1998. Congratulations one and all.

The Chuck Yeager Award, for being a pioneer:
Joe Adelsick, for playing the first Gatekeeper.

The Silver Schtick Award, for the best charater 'bit':
A tie- Kevin Stein for Fool and his blindfold, and Doug Tabb for Segial and his madness.

The Saturday Night Live Award, for the worst character 'bit':
Stan Laff, for Caladan's puppet.

The Games Workshop 5-Mile Pile of Bodies Award, for the most dead player characters:
Bob Hollister, for Dorian Rasp, Duncan, and Slayer.

The Tammy Faye Bakker Award, for the most repulsive make-up:
Corrie Hrubes, for 'Scabby' the serving wench.

The Take it Like a Man Award, for stoic acceptance when a beloved character was killed:
A tie- Rob Nichols for Count Skye, and Jon Marcus for Alejandro.

The Mark Rein-Hagen Award, for the most in-character angst:
A tie- Dave Jennings for Skurge, and Curt Martin for Turan.

The Sure Thing Award, for the female character you'd most want with you on a date:
Dawn Nystul, for Autumn.

The Xena Award, for the female character you'd most want with you in a dark alley:
JoAnne Ciszewski, for Kayla.

The Mortal Kombat 'Flawless Victory' Award, for taking a powerful foe down like a chump:
Rich Schaufuss for Kobar, and his defeat of a professional duelist in a single round.

The Zsa Zsa Gabor Award, for a slap heard 'round the world:
Corrie Hrubes, for Captain Owl's big beat-down of Count Skye.

The Bill Gates 'Junior Acheiver' Award, for financial genius:
Lou Klozik for Jacko Delight, and 'Banko Jacko'.

The 'Big Z' Award, for good sportsmanship:
A tie- Vicki Martin, for Hunter and her stone ordeal, and Rob Wilson, for the Guardian and melting in the heat.

The 'Legion of the Darned' Award, for the least-loathed 'bad guy':
Mike Malony, for Moorkoth.

The John Merrick Award, for overcoming a lack of coordination:
Tony Hrubes, for rolling dice instead of playing 'paper-rock-spider'.

The Meryl Streep Versatility Award, for playing an incredible variety of NPCs:
Chad Brinkley.

The Amway Award, for the most active Faction recruitment:
Marc Blumberg, for Reman's Cabal recruitment drive.

The Best Dressed Award, for the best effort to look like your character:
A tie- Tom Dowd for Kedrik, and Corrie Hrubes for Captain Owl.

The Least Dressed Award, for the scantiest costume:
Dawn Nystul, for Autumn.

The Most Dressed Award, for the most abundant costume:
Joe Adelsick, for Drexus Shendari.

The Best Special Effects Award:
A tie- Rob Wilson for the scrying pool, and Robyn Tisch for various last-minute props.

The Best Documentary Award:
Tom Dowd, for Chronicle Eleven.

The Best Sound Award:
Shard, for any character he plays.

The Best Direction Award:
Drew Novick, for several great games.

The Best Supporting Actor Award:
Lou Klozik, for Jacko Delight.

The Best Supporting Actress Award:
Lori Ralston, for Catherine.

The Best Actor Award:
Rob Wilson, for Andor.

The Best Actress Award:
JoAnne Ciszewski, for Kayla.

The Rags to Riches Award, for the most improved character:
David Simkins, for Risisin.

The Best Death Award:
Drew Novick, for Headless the Nameless Barbarian.

The Hopelessly Devoted Award, for selfless devotion to the game:
A tie- Kelley Jordine, for cooking, cleaning, and serving; Tom Dowd, for his work on the Chronicle and web site; Tony Hrubes, for arranging the Hollywood House and cleaning up after us; and Dan Grendell, for keeping the records and running the numbers.

The Oversight Award, for the character overlooked by the Player's Choice Vote:
Eileen Malony, for Rhianna.

The Big Belly Flop Award, for the character action that caused the most ripples in the game:
James Silverstein, for Bax Emerson's awakening of the Old Gods.

THE STATE OF THE UNION

As promised, while the last State of the Union focused on the Dukes, this one will focus on the religious powers, the groups and the individuals who hold power in the land. In short, it will focus on everyone else who is considered politically noteworthy at the moment.

SUCCESSION
Blacksteel, King of Kaleth, Count of Thallarin Capital
The King has been ruling for three years now. Two questions naturally arise. What has he done for the nobility which placed him in power and who have declared fealty to him in exchange for the promise of justice and boons? And, will he give up power when the time comes, or will he decide that his proposed experiment in short-term regency was ill advised and premature?
These questions are hard to ask, primarily because most people are afraid to ask them directly, as Blacksteel has made it clear that such questions are unwelcome. Blacksteel continues to act much as he did three years ago when he was first declared king. He continues to choose where he wants to rule directly, and he delegates the rest to his advisors. While he has been delegating authority to Arthon Jurel Blacksteel, he has not been obviously gradually shifting power to the younger man.
Blacksteel continues to keep court wherever he might be, which has generally been in his lands in Thallarin, which he continues to hold and will continue to rule after his proposed time is up. He continues to accept petitions from the populace, and he continues to take a direct hand in most matter of high justice within the realm.

Arthon Jurel, Prince of Kaleth, heir to Blacksteel
Still beloved among all classes in Kaleth, Arthon Jurel has matured considerably in the last three years. While he was wise for his years, dashing and courageous before, he has added patience and experienced to his virtues. Recently he has been given both praise and blame for his part in the settling of the Dwarven Miner's Strike in the Miner's Cooperative of Vathos, located in the Dragonspine mountains. The peaceful resolution to the conflict, and the general agreement, in principal at least, achieved by his acting Arbiter in the conflict, Loremaster Jacko Delight, has been judged favorably be both the King and the court.

Morgan Winterbourne, High General of Kaleth
Morgan has been maintaining position best described as "patient readiness". Readiness for what? That seems to be the question foremost on everyone's mind. By all accounts, he is a supporter of the Prince's ascension. However, many question the supreme Winterbourne's true loyalties.
The relationship between Blacksteel and Morgan is in constant flux between "cordial" and "strained". At least once every year since Blacksteel attained the monarchy, Lord Morgan has issued a formal complaint against the King and his delegates, who practice routine suprise inspections of the General's forces in their barracks on in the field, occasionally bringing gifts for the troops in garrison. Lord Morgan insists that these interruptions reduce moral and disrupt normal military order. Although claiming respect for the General's position, Blacksteel has always claimed that it is well within his rights as King to be an active participant in the care, training and use of the army. Last year in court, the King reminded the angry Winterbourne to, "Remember, you serve the crown, not the reverse." If Lord Morgan had a reply for the King, he has so far decided to share it with neither His Majesty nor the court.

Dissident Factions
Not everyone is happy with the present arrangement. However, few have come forward directly against either King Blacksteel or Prince Arthon. Still, rumblings continue, apparently centering in Evangar, where some say bands of warlords loyal to factions other than those currently in command are being encouraged to train in the hills of Evangar. Is Montrose, Duke of Evangar, collecting a private army, or is there some other danger from the hills that those in Evangar would prefer not to discuss with outsiders?
Recently some of the Counts and Merchants of Zurek and Vathos have also been rumored to be gathering supplies and developing relationships with large numbers of mercenaries. Some have gone so far as to say that rumors of the ghost ship and the reported war in Kelar are a hoax intended to relocate and train would-be adventurers from Thallarin to Vathos in an attempt to gain their loyalty. Is Kaleth once again facing a large-scale military build-up?

RELIGION
The religious situation in Kaleth has become quite complex in the last few years. All at once, and without any warning, the priests and champions of the elder gods returned to full activity a few years ago. Since then, the temples have been growing steadily. While both Church and Wheel are threatened by the rise of Pantheism, neither are in a secure place to counter the growth of the temples, particularly not in Vathos and Zurek, where they are strongest.

Church of Dain
The Church is unsettled. Both politically and in matter of religious tenants, the Church is split into several disagreeing factions. The Warrior Dain is often said to have the end of war as His goal. The Crusaders, who express Warrior Dain most vividly, have not taken any position in the Church's debate. They remain loyal servants of Dain, and continue to report to the Archbishop, but the Archbishop has been careful not to put them in a place where they may have to make their own decisions about the will of Dain. As a result, they have been used for little in the last few years, although it is said that small scouting groups have been active in the extreme regions of the Skiershorn Archipelago and in all of the waters surrounding Kaleth. Their purpose there is not fully known.
The Inquisition was disbanded, but it is not gone. Fully a fourth of the former inquisitors continue to prefer the red robes of the Inquisition to the white robes of the lightbringers. And still, the name "Inquisition" brings a chill to most who hear it. And as for the Lightbringers, their role in the new kingdom is not entirely clear. They cannot directly confront the pantheists, nor can they confront the renegade factions among the elves acting outside of their "homeland". Their hands have been tied to roles of preaching and acting as judge in semi-religious legal matters. It is clear that even those who accept the role of Lightbringer are beginning to chaff under the restrictions.
The Church as a whole continues to enjoy the support of the majority of the people and the aristocracy of Kaleth. They have advisors in the King's court and have places of honor in every court in the land. Still, their power has noticeably slipped since the coming of the Druid King, Blacksteel. Many of the devout are already calling for the archbishop to recapture the righteous authority enjoyed in Kaleth's past.

Pantheist Temples
The temples of the Pantheists are seen as separate entities by many in Kaleth, but since their reassurance, the priests have sought to present a united front to the people of Kaleth. By the cynical this is seen as a means of presenting to unlearned peasants used to the structure of the Church of Dain with a new religion which nevertheless has a familiar feel. However, if there is tension below the surface in the rising Temples, it is difficult to find. Outreach programs have risen alongside the Temples, often partially temple sponsored. Warriors of Mordekar serve alongside the healers of Allanara to bring comfort and relief to the destitute of Kaleth.
    Where is all of this outreach leading? Pantheism was once touted as being the choice for a few nobles and adventurers who could not hold to the edicts and values of Dain. In short, it was seen as a path for dilettante's and vagrants. Now, a new grassroots movement is spreading out from the orphans and destitute to the mass of the peasants, especially in Vathos and Zurek. While just a few years ago, there were far more Pantheist followers among the Merchants of Vathos than among the farmers and fishers. Now, the numbers are at least even and the portion of peasants embracing Pantheism increases yearly.
    In Argoth and Thallarin, pantheism remains of primary interest to a few members of the nobility, gaining no real foothold among the peasantry. Still, even its minimal popularity in Argoth has taken many off-guard. Some reactionary supporters of Dain claim that this indicates a disintegration of basic values and an unhealthy emphatuation with the ephemeral among the Argoth elite.
    No one expected the reaction to the growth of Pantheist Temples in Evangar to be favorable. However, many are surprised to hear reports of growing violence and resentment against the Temples in Thallarin. The source of the unrest is not clear, but Blacksteel has reportedly order the Duchess in no uncertain terms to make these attacks stop.

The Druidical Wheel
While the Dainittes have lost some followers on their frontier of power, the Pantheist Temples have struck the Priests of the Wheel even in their former centers of power. Vathos and Zurek, formerly refuges for those who follow the Wheel, have seen a steady decline in interest in Druidism. The reasons were are not immediately obvious, the High Spiritual Holy Days still provide as much attraction as ever, and the local priests noticed only a slight diminishment in interest in their community's reverence toward the spirits. Nevertheless, the Wheel's coffers are nearly empty. Many of the trained clergy of the Pantheists learned their trade while serving the Wheel, many claiming to have turned to the Temples after having a direct revelation from the Elder Gods. Also, many of the laypeople who followed the Wheel see no particular difference between the practices and ideologies of the two. Many attend meetings from both or either, as their interests lead them, donating the same portion of their income, but splitting it between the clergy of the two groups.
The crisis of the Wheel has been depend by the increase in heretical and counter-Wheel revolutionaries, or Rogue Druids, which have further split both the priesthood and the membership of the Wheel. At last action is being taken to bring these seperationist groups back into the fold of the Wheel, lest the Druidical way be lost, as the Elder Gods were lost. Despite some reports of ruthless oppression of dissident groups among the Druids, or perhaps because of it, the crises seem to be lessening somewhat. Nevertheless, if King or people soon does not take action, it is possible that the Wheel will begin to decline into obscurity.

OTHER GROUPS

Cabal
On an entirely different note, few who closely followed the events surrounding the treaty of Zurek could help but come to the conclusion that the Cabal has a come to have a significant say in the politics of Kaleth. However, few can indicate what kind of political power the Cabal holds. What do they want and how do they come to influence events at crucial times while they are otherwise politically notable only in the absence?
The position of the Cabal in the court of Blacksteel is secure. They serve as advisors in a capacity quite similar to those appointed to court by the Church of Dain and the Wheel, much to the discomfort of both of those factions. However, unlike both Wheel and Church, they speak only seldom in court, apparently lending their council to the King either in private or not at all. If the Prince is to succeed the King, as was original agreed, one can only guess that the importance of the Cabal will increase. If there were a resurgence of Winterbourne loyalty, their power would doubtless decrease. Despite their apparent neutrality, few question their loyalties in the question of succession.

Wood Elves
By some accounts, the frustration among the wood elves seems to be growing to a dangerous boil both within the elven community and in Thallarin. The Duchess of Thallarin has patiently withstood the raids and flagrant breaches of the homeland, most of which cause little actual harm or discomfort, but which openly flaunt the authority of both King and Duchess. Reports indicate that the Duchess is nearing the end of her patience, and the King continues to insist that she handle the matter locally. If nothing is done soon, the Duchess may be risking peasant revolts as well.

THE RUMOR MILL

Phantor has nearly recovered from the shock of having been left off the guest list of what is likely to have been the party of the century. Most of what Phantor has to tell you this day are tales being told about that already legendary event.
    Those of you who are as interested in antiquities as Phantor know Gretchen quite well. While this lady seems 'shy' and 'demure' it seems that in truth she is anything but! Seen dancing, kissing, and even more at the recent debauch at Zayven's tower, this so-called 'lady' showed her true colors.
    If Phantor hears true the Draekor warrior Vrexir came away from the Masquerade with more than most. According to Glayson of Thren his host, Zaven the Tarotmancer, cursed the big man with sleeping sickness. Could this have been the beginning of an unfortunate reversal of Vrexir’s fortunes? After months hearing great things about the bellowing brawler and his ‘destiny’ most of what Phantor has heard lately has to do with Lythe, one of the "pale" Draekors and the leader of a stronghold opposed to Vrexir and his allies.
    Does the "tavernkeeper" of the Ram's Head Tavern have aspirations that transcend the culinary? Reynn was seen in heated discussion with Zayven at the Masquerade... What could those two have been talking about and who was that scarred man drunk out of his socks at the Sea Captain's Lady? Could it have been Reynn he was claiming had “cheated of his due"? Let’s hope not.
Phantor has heard that Segial was among a handful of those able to see and converse with Zayven’s ‘unseen’ guests. This comes as no surprise to Phantor. Segial is rumored to have all kinds of strange powers. On the one-year anniversary of the day he is said to have raised the dead near the town of Aledale in Evengar those dead rose again, calling his name. Needless to say, the locals are not pleased. Darshan the dweomermaster has supposedly spent his time away from the inn dabbling in the necromantic arts with Segial as his guide and was left to tend their workshop while Segial went to the Masquerade.
    Was that a debt being repaid to Kantr the Elf by Zaven the Mage at the Winter Masquerade at Zaven's place? Certainly seemed to be... And what is the item that keeps being passed back and forth between Kantr and Commander Owl? Friends who would no longer be friends if Phantor shared their names with you have whispered that the Commander is in league with the Legion of the Damned and that someone called Skurge corrupted her. Supposedly Owl and the erstwhile Jacko Delight are at odds about payment for protection of the Count Skye Memorial Library. Apparently Jacko is broke and is desperate to recoup his fortune, which may explain some of his rather odd behavior during the party.
    Caladan arrived late to the Masquerade. One possible explanation - rumor has it that the mage burned down his home village and killed several people with his experiments. His fellow villagers are too afraid to expel him.
    The new Gatekeeper seemed troubled by many events that occurred at Zaven's Masquerade. There seemed to be one event in particular that affected him, though he will not speak of what it was. While we are on the subject of the Kytheri Keybearer Phantor has heard that he has been seen trying on expensive clothing in the finest tailor shops of coastal Vathos. Phantor heard from someone who knows that the Gatekeeper looked striking in a deep purple Temessian Overcoat...
    Word is Liam was reluctant to attend the party but he went to begin recruiting warriors for a new "Falcon Guard", under the command of Elestan Dumar. This new Falcon Guard is rumored to have made a secret pact with the loyalists of House Winterbourne. Elistan was invited to the Masquerade but did not attend. Perhaps he should have. Without Liam at his side the bladesman fell prey to one of his moods and fought twelve drunken duels in three hours. Fortunately all twelve of his opponents were notorious dastards and all twelve fell before his righteous rage. Ouch.
    Robin Goodfellow provided entertainment to Zayven’s guests and continues to enjoy high profile commissions in Evengar and Zurek. Many of his latest poems prominently feature Liam as the hero. Robin has also been frequently seen in the company of a young man named Newt, speaking with him at great length and accompanying him to a local tailor who is popular with the upper class of Evengar. Newt has supposedly undertaken a quest for the Church of Dain to perform some task on behalf of the Inquisition. Umbar the Lightbringer is mentoring him in this effort. Those who have spoken to Phantor of Umbar have few good things to say. In an effort to revive the Inquisition, Umbar has been heavy-handed with all but the devout and has alienated many who once called him friend. Phantor wonders how Umbar feels about Newt’s Changeling companion?
    Since Zayven’s party Malachi has secreted himself deep within the depths of the library where he has been talking to himself or some unseen companions. Meanwhile, the villain of the most popular play in Evangar is a wizard named ‘Malak Ki’ who turns out to be a cannibal who is stoned in effigy by the audience after he confesses to sins against god, man and himself. Phantor has yet to see it but the audience participation is an excellent touch.
    Hunter elf-friend was turned to stone years ago and by some twist of circumstance ended up in the Zayven’s audience chamber. According to reliable sources she was restored by one of Zayven’s guests only to discover that she is being held responsible by the elves for the crowning of the upstart king and that she has been barred from the Great Wood. Phantor has heard that Autumn refused to go to Zaven's party even though she was told that her "sister" Hunter was going to be restored to life there. Has there been a falling out between the two? Blood is the deepest bond and when all is said and done Autumn is elven and Hunter is not.
Phantor has saved the strangest for last. Reman is said to have "unmanned" himself at the party as part of some bizarre parlor game. Apparently, he took a knife to his most private areas. Phantor would have discounted the rumor out of hand were it not offered by several diverse sources.
    Some other things Phantor has heard in the past few weeks;

>> Apparently, these days the fashion craze that is sweeping the noble class is jewelry crafted by none other than Gwen, the cook. Supposedly, her rings, necklaces and other baubles are becoming a ‘must’.
>> Bax, the first Saint of the Pantheist church in over a century, has been called before the assembled high priests of Kaleth. No news of the details of this meeting has been released.>> Kobar has been seen talking to known members of the Cabal.
>> Branywn has not been seen in months. Rumor has it that she was trying to start her own Druidical faction and her subversive efforts prompted the Wheel to send the Black Robes for her.
>> Andor has recently reappeared after many months of seclusion. He seems quiet and introspective, and when questioned about where he's been and what he's been doing, he's refused comment.
>> Turan the ‘crusader’ was forced into marriage by an angry father...
>> Nolan Quintisarious was seen arguing with a nomadic warrior from the Desolation. The black-clad warrior demanded something from Nolan that he didn’t have.
>> The jilted bride of Gregor Rhys has been looking for the missing hero as have his many friends but all they have found thusfar are his shield and a black rose, which was claimed by Robin Goodfellow on behalf of the Order of the White Rose.
>> Moorkoth has been seen prowling the desolated sites of great final battles between the Legion of the Damned and the armies of Righteousness.
>> It is said that Pier's once apprenticed with the most skilled glasser in Kaleth. When he left, he stole thousands of gold in sculpture and has been living on the run since.
>> Fool, formerly human, has been turned into a High Elf by powerful elf magic.
>> A dwarf known only as "Rock" has been seen promoting the cause of Dwarves among humans.
>> Some of those who claim to have spoken with Slayer tell tales of a man who does not remember the details of his past. Could this ‘new’ Slayer be an imposter?
>> Word has come from many peasant families in Zurek that Tyler has been providing healing herbs and poultices free of charge.
>> Kedrik's recent absence from the Ram's Head Inn may be the precursor to his excommunication of the current patron and staff for their excesses. It is rumored that the decree will condemn the Inn as well, and all who continue as patrons of it.
>> Captain Swift has been continuing to train soldiers and has been spending a great deal of time with many more experienced mercenaries. He has also been seen at wee hours of the night leaving the homes of various learned sages..
>> And finally - congratulations to Rhianna, who had a healthy baby boy. The Duke of Zurek discretely quieted rumors in court that Arthon Jurel would name the baby his successor until Jurel had one of his own.

AND YOUR FAVORITE PLAYERS WERE...

Zaven’s little shin-dig produced a number of memorable sights, and characters. But in the end, the favorite PC characters were:

Liam (Kevin Stein) Reman (Marc Blumburg)
Robin Goodfellow (Aaron Loeb) Rhianna (Eileen Malony)

Rounding out the favorites, we once again voted for favorite NPCs, who were:
Gail Peck (Miss “Kitty”)
Robyn Tisch (the Faerie)
Lori Ralston (the, um, “Pain Mother”)
Congratulations to all!

TELLIN TALL TALES

Storytellers have been in place for a couple of sessions now and as one might expect everyone is taking time to grow into the new system. For the Storytellers, its been about learning what information needs to be circulated among the Storytellers, what shouldn’t, and what information needs to be fed through Mike.
A    lmost immediately another layer was added, one that players will probably only rarely encounter. Certain meta-plotlines are now being “managed” by a single Storyteller who is responsible for compiling all available information on the plotline, dispersing only the information a Storyteller needs to know to them (and thereby keeping the secrets secret), and tracking any global changes to that story. Two example? The Guild and the Dainite “Schism”.
    Also, we’ve come to understand just how important communication is between the Storyteller and his player. Without the Storyteller and the player each telling the other what they both want and need the system bogs down. To this end we’re encouraging Storytellers and their players to touch base at the end of a Session. This occurred (for the most part) at the end of Session 12 and seemed very successful. The player and his or her Storyteller should talk about any major events that happened to the player, the status of Proxy Plots, any major items acquired (especially keyword items), and what other events of significance occurred that might have long-term implications. If the player has some idea at that time about how they want to spend their Between Time that can be discussed with the Storyteller as well. This should save time between Sessions for both the player and the Storyteller.
    Lastly, if the character is intended to create a magic items, perform any rituals or skill tests during the set-up for the next Session both the Storyteller and Dan Grendall need to be informed ahead of time. This includes things like scrolls, potions, craftsman, and so on. By letting the Storyteller and Dan know ahead of time we can hopefully minimize confusion and speed up set-up.
    While on that subject, its come up that some players have been holding on to item cards between Sessions for fear of loosing them. Since we need to track all such cards (and their plot threads) please turn all such cards into Dan at the end of a Session. From now on, if an item card isn’t turned in at the end of a Session it doesn’t exist. You Have Been Warned! (And since we’ll be changing the money soon if you’ve been hoarding that its time to cash in…)

Will This All Be Worth It?
Andor Orban, Crusader of Dain.
(as written and played by Rob Wilson)

I am but eight years old.
I have never played catch or even hide and seek with other children.
I am alone, but never quite alone.
I am the only child at the seminary, but I am always surrounded by adults.
“How come I do not get to play like other children?” I would ask.
“Because Andor, you are not like other children, not even remotely.” She said.
“You are very special. Dain has a great plan of purpose for you.
You have much to do in your life, and very little time to do it.” She continued.
“What does Dain have planned for me?” I would ask as I have countless times before.
The answer is always the same, “Only Dain knows for sure, but you must be ready.”
“But I feel so alone.” I would reply.
“You are never alone, Andor. Dain and all those who have passed from this life are always with you, always.”
So, I would return to my studies or training with reluctance.

Once as a parting comment, I said “I wish someone had asked if I wanted all this, it sure isn't fun.”
The Bishop glared at me quite sternly,
“Do not say that, or even think that way for that matter.
You will one day wield great power, it is your purpose.
You must not think that your sacrifice is for nothing.
Many people have sacrificed much for you to be here, and yes,
yours is the greatest sacrifice.
But you will become an instrument of Dain and help many.
With great power comes even greater responsibility, Andor, never forget that.
Your reward will not be on this earth.”
“Yes your eminence.” And I left her standing in the courtyard looking troubled.

The years have passed and I have been a Crusader for many years now.
I have helped countless thousands by now.
I have witnessed joy through the eyes of others.
I have also felt the pain and sorrow of mans’ wickedness on the weak.
I have fought necromancers bent on power over men.
I have fought demons wanting power over men’s souls.
I have faced those who despise me for my faith,
those who would slander my good name, I just look away from them,
and that hurts more than any attack I sustain in combat.
I have faced countless horrors and unimagined evil, each time I feel a piece of me is lost.
I have lost my right hand in Dain’s service.
I have never personally known happiness.
I am still alone.
I have never even had any family, only a name.
But I know that this is all for the well-being of others.
Many would suffer and many would die if I was not who I was,
if I did not make this never ending sacrifice.
And yet, I always wake up and wonder,
“Will this all be worth it?” I say to my reflection…
Dain, I hope so.

A WORK IN PROGRESS

The rules are nearing completion but there are still a few pesky little bugs that needed fixing. One of the things I have never really been happy with is the penalty for using multiple Portals or Translocation spells in the same session. A wound for every Translocation after the first isn’t much of a penalty when you consider how few Portals are actually available in your average session. Planebound and Planelocked are two of the best deals in the game and Gate Tolerance isn’t really worth the points.
All of that is about to change.

AFTERSHOCK
Translocation is an incredibly stressful experience. Mortal bodies aren’t meant to be shifted from place to place or through other dimensions.
    Whenever a character is Translocated in any way (including Teleportation spells, Dimensional travel and the use of Portals) his system becomes strained and he accumulates a point of ‘Aftershock’ which is indicated by marking his nametag with an ‘O’.
    If a character who already has one or more points of Aftershock is Translocated his Wound Capacity is temporarily reduced by 1 and he takes a wound for every point of Aftershock he has accumulated. Temporary loss of Wound Capacity is indicated by marking his nametag with an ‘X’. When the effects of any Aftershock he already had are resolved the new point of Aftershock is added.
    Points of Wound Capacity lost to Aftershock can be restored by the Revitalize spell. If a characters Wound Capacity is reduced to 0 by Aftershock he is killed.
    All of this means that few adventurers will be able to Translocate more than twice without losing consciousness. This will limit the ability of your characters to go on multiple Expeditions without a high Wound Capacity, Gate Tolerance or a protective spell of some kind.

For example: Hrugir is an adventurer with a Wound Capacity of 5. The first time he steps through a Portal he takes no damage because he has no Aftershock when he is Translocated but the experience gives him his first point of Aftershock. After lunch he agrees to allow himself to be Teleported. He has a point of Aftershock when he is Teleported so he loses a point of Wound Capacity (reducing his Wound Capacity to 4) and he takes a wound. His second Portal of the day is his third Translocation (because of the Teleport spell) so he has 2 points of Aftershock which reduces his Wound Capacity by another point and he takes two wounds, so he is conscious (but barely, because of his current Wound Capacity of 3). A fourth Translocation would reduce his Wound Capacity to 2 and he would take 3 wounds so he would pass out when he appeared.

GATE TOLERANCE
6, 11 or 15 pts for lvl 1, 2 or 3

NOTE: This Advantage used to be an all-or-nothing affair but I have changed the cost structure and the effects to reflect the revised Aftershock rules. Gate Tolerance will be less expensive for certain nonhuman races but I’m not sure which ones or by how much - we are working on that section now
Characters with Gate Tolerance are better equipped to deal with the rigors of Translocation. When a character with Gate Tolerance is affected by the loss of Wound Capacity caused by Aftershock his Wound Capacity is treated as though it were a point higher for every level of Gate Tolerance he has. When a character is instructed to lose a point of Wound Capacity but he has enough Gate Tolerance to cover the loss he marks his nametag with a ‘T’ instead of an ‘X’. Revitalize can be used to remove the ‘T’ marks but only after any ‘X’ marks are removed first.

For example: A character with a Wound Capacity of 5 and Gate Tolerance 2 goes through his fourth Portal of the day. Assuming he hasn’t had Revitalize cast on him he would normally have lost a total of 3 pts of Wound Capacity to Aftershock, leaving him with a Wound Capacity of 1 but the first two points were absorbed by his Gate Tolerance so his Wound Capacity was only reduced by the third point of Aftershock, leaving him with a Wound Capacity of 4. When all is said and done his nametag would have four ‘O’ marks, two ‘T’ marks and one ‘X’ mark. He still takes 3 wounds from his fourth Translocation but if he wasn’t wounded when he went through the Portal he will he will be able to pass through without losing consciousness.

FILTHY LUCRE

As we touched upon in the last Chronicle and at the end of the last session we need to think about how much money we are willing to put into the game. At present the event fee is $8.00, which isn’t much and isn’t really enough. We are paying out for a site about half the time, we are paying for food, we are paying to get the Chronicle out, we are paying for props and we are paying to get the rules done. This is a lot to expect from $8.00.
I would like to put a change into effect this month so when you contact your Storyteller to let him know if you are coming to the next session please let him know what you would like to do about our financial situation.
To make it easier to tabulate your collective opinion I have come up with several opinions, all of which are acceptable solutions to our current problem.

Option One - Leave things as they are and try do as much as we can through volunteers and donations. If this is the consensus you will to be asked to bring things to some events which you will be expected to provide in addition to your event fee.

Option Two - Raise the event fee. When I asked for a little more money to cover my expenses for Session Twelve most of the players kicked in $10.00 instead of $8.00. I discovered that the $2.00 boost helped but wouldn’t solve our problems or allow for things like building our costume, weapon and prop collections. If you choose this option please let us know how much you would be willing to contribute. I suggest $12.00 to $15.00.

Option Three - A one time membership fee will allow us to build up a reserve of cash that can be used to do things like pay site fees in advance. We would probably ask for an amount equal to our usual event fee and we wouldn’t ask newcomers to pay the membership fee until they are willing to commit to playing an ongoing character. Because the $8.00 event fee has proven to be too little it would bleed off the reserve so if this option is the consensus we will probably also raise the event fee to $10.00 to stop the hemorrhaging which means you would be asked to come up with $20.00 in April to build the reserve.

My personal preference is for Option Three. We originally came up with that plan to try to figure out a way to pay me to finish the rulebook so I could rationalize my way past the fact that I was spending all my time on Gateway instead of working on Crusade but since the subject first raised its ugly head I realized I’m doing this because its my hobby and I hired someone else to help me finish the rules.
If we go with Option Three the Storytellers will probably come up with some kind of ‘membership pack’ (we have already worked out a hobby shop discount card).
Whatever we decide I thank you for your ongoing support. This is a not for profit group effort and I think we have achieved something remarkable by keeping the campaign afloat for as long as we have on a shoestring budget. As always, money isn’t our reason for doing this so if you are worried that financial concerns will keep you from playing please talk to Aaron (our treasurer) and he will try to work something out for you.

NEXT SESSION (April 18, 1998, Hollywood House)

As this Chronicle goes to press we know that the next session is going to be held April 18th with a set-up time of 1 PM sharp. The location is the Hollywood House in Old Brookville, IL. . If you need more information, or directions, contact your Storyteller or visit the website at http://www.jcn.com/tdowd.

Advance Notice...
The current plan is for the May session to be hosted by Dave Simkins and Aaron Loeb. It’ll be an “away game” hosted downstate in Champaigne, IL, which is about a 2 – 3 hour drive from Chicago. Due to the nature of the game, Aaron and Dave need to know as soon as possible if you are or are not going to be able to attend. Please contact Dave or Aaron at dsimkins@jaka.ece.uiuc.edu or aaron@gamepen.com respectively. Dave and Aaron can also give you information on travel, directions, nearby motels (if needed), daycare, etc.
No information is currently available for the June session. (Nor is there in fact confirmation of a June session.) If it occurs it will most likely be on the third Saturday of that month.
July, however, will be hosted by Tom Dowd, Rob Nicholls, Lori Ralston, and Tom Peters and will be held in Geneva, IL. That session will be held on July 18th. If anyone in the group has access to pavilion-style tents please contact Tom Dowd at tom.dowd@ix.netcom.com.

Round Up….
If, by the time you read this, you have not been in contact with your Storyteller at some level about session 13 get in touch with them ASAP. Also, please contact Dawn immediately about whether or not we can expect to see you on the 18th.
Lastly, if you have not been in contact with Dan Grendal, a.k.a. “Flake” and the archivist of the game, about what your character is doing between session and how you want to spend any experience points you may have please do so. His e-mail address is: udun@aol.com. If you need his phone number, or the phone number of your Storyteller, please contact Dawn Nystul. Her number you should have.

See y’all next time.

This edition of the Gateway Chronicle was created by:

War Stories (Session 11), From The Black Desk, Filthy Lucre and A Work In Progress—
Mike Nystul
State of the Union—Dave Simkins
“Will It All Be Worth It?”— Rob Wilson
Rumor Mill—Tom Dowd, Aaron Loeb, Mike Nystul, Rich Shaufuss, Dave Simkins, Kevin Stein, and Doug Tabb,
Layout, Production, and additional writing: Tom Dowd

The Gateway Chronicles Staff

Primarch: Mike Nystul (PariahMike@aol.com)
Game Coordinator: Dawn Nystul (ElvenDawn@aol.com)
Treasurer: Aaron Loeb (aaron@gamepen.com)
Archivist: Dan Grendel (udun@aol.com)
Chronicler/Webmaster: Tom Dowd (tom.dowd@ix.netcom.com)

Storytellers:
Tom Dowd (tom.dowd@ix.netcom.com)
Aaron Loeb (aaron@gamepen.com)
Rich Shaufuss (lyranathor@aol.com)
Dave Simkins (dsimkins@jaka.ece.uiuc.edu)
Kevin Stein (duespax@aol.com)
Doug Tabb (dougtabb@aol.com)