Tatters of the King - User contributions [en-gb]

The Order of the Sword of St. Jerome

2006-09-07T04:57:06Z

202.74.213.227:

According to Nathaniel Browne, who has an interest in all matters occult, the following is the rumoured truth of the Order to which [[Umberto]] belongs, or belonged.`

This paranoid and secretive religious order once operated under the auspices of the Catholic Church, but since its former dissolution in the late 19th century it has operated only in secret. Responsible for the collection of the original 'Z' collection rumoured to be part of the vatican library, the Order of St. Jerome is devoted to the rooting out and destruction of supernatural evil.

The Order is said to have a secret Alpine headquarters in which they have copies of much of the forbidden books of the 'Z' collection, and more besides.

Most of the order's members are wnadering holy men travelling the world, living on charity while seeking out evil. They are willing to lay down their lives if necessary, and are said to be willing to sacrifice the lives of others if it serves the greater good in full belief that any innocent who dies in the crossfire of this noble war will be assured a place in heaven.

Session 12

2006-09-06T10:58:15Z

202.74.213.227: /* Wednesday January 10th 1930 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 4th September, 2006==

=== Monday December 31st 1929 ===

Wimbledon Cemetary, the funeral of Doctor Frederick [[Bartlett]]. In the face of some cold stares from Bartlett's family, the investigators retire to a nearby pub and make plans to travel to Nepal. It is decided to book passage on the next available ship, which will be '[[The Viceroy of India]]', a new P&O liner which leaves Southampton on Friday.

It is agreed that to avoid the crossing of the Bay of Biscay, never pleasant at this time of year, the investigators will travel by train to Marseilles and meet the boat there on Sunday.

=== Friday January 5th 1930 ===

The investigators leave England and head to France, taking a train south to the port of Marseilles, where they buy the gear they feel they need for the joirney - walking shoes, packs, alpine rations and survival gear.

=== Saturday January 6th 1930 ===

All 3 investigators experience disturbing dreams containing themes and imagery from the Hastur mythos. All feel the influence of [[the King in Yellow]] is growing.

=== Sunday January 7th 1930 ===

The investigators board [[The Viceroy of India]] for the 11 day voyage to [[Bombay]]. Over the next week and a half they will spend a lot of time with their dining companions on Table 8, who they meet that lunchtime (with the exception of Mr Thomas, who does not appear until dinner).

[[Julian Knight]] - a diplomat returning to India, who implies that he may be some kind of a spy and clearly has an eye for the ladies and a taste for brandy

The Reverend [[Ian Gore]] - a missionary with the British Bible Society, on his way to continue spreading the Word in the interior of India

Mrs [[Henrietta Tullis]] - the matronly wife of the Cultural attache in Bombay, returning from visiting her sick sister and very much the 'mother hen' of the group

[[Stephen Thomas]] - a pudgy, bespectacled man. A minor civil servant taking up a new post in India, Stephen always has his head in a book.

Miss [[Francesca Nicholson]] - a pretty, vivacious typist on her way to visit relatives and see the sub-continent. She knows [[Nathaniel Browne]]'s work and is happy to meet him.

Miss [[Patricia Berry]] - Francesca's quieter, less glamorous friend and travelling companion. from a monied background, she busies herself in voluntary work. Julian Knight immediately latches on to her.

''Note: At this point, Julian Knight is being played by [[Marcus Gustafsson]] and the other players think that Julian is his new character in the campaign.''

By dinner that evening, Francesca has attached herself to Browne as is hanging on his every word, while poor Patricia finds herself the object of Knight's attentions, something that is making her increasingly uncomfortable.

During dinner Saunders sees a swarthy looking man looking into the dining room and was sure he'd seen him before, but could not place him.

At the end of the meal, when it is time for the ship's orchestra to strike up, [[Withers]] notices Knight is ordering a drink and chivalrously steps in, inviting Patricia to be his dance partner for the evening. Thus paired up, Withers and Browne go to the dancefloor, Knight to the bar and [[Andrew Saunders]] wanders off on his own for the evening.

Francesca returns to Nathaniel's stateroom where she discovers a copy of [[Talbot Estus]]'s play amongst Nathaniel's books. Remembering the dedication from '[[Tatters of the King]]' she asks if she can borrow it. Browne agrees.

Late that night, Withers hears Saunders return to his cabin. He wonders quite where his friend has been.

=== Monday January 8th 1930 ===

The ship steams on across the Mediterranean. A game of deck quoits takes place, and [[Henrietta Tullis]] presses the investigators into competing against the reverend [[Gore]]. Withers and Browne encounter [[Francesca Nicholson]] and [[Patricia Berry]] once more, and Patricia is impressed to see Withers win handily.

During the game, [[Saunders]] sees the swarthy stranger once more, but still cannot place him, or catch up with him.

[[Julian Knight]] arrives and tries once more to ingartiate himself with Patricia. while [[Browne]] continues to get on with Francesca like a house on fire.

By dinner, Saunders is constantly looking out for the stranger, and the others are starting to get a little worried about him. During the meal, Mrs Tullis and the Rev Gore box Knight in to stop him from bothering Patricia, and Withers finds himself once more spending time with young Miss Berry, whose reticence and shyness is slowly fading.

After dinner, as the orchestra strikes up, Withers notices Saunders sneaking off, so decides to follow him. Saunders passes into an area signposted as for 'Staff only'. Withers follows and runs into a lascar seaman. The lascar's raised voice alerts Saunders who emerges from a nearby door with an unreadable look upon his face. Withers sees the name "Head Steward Wilkins" on the door from which Saunders has emerged.

Saunders tells Withers that Wilkins is an old friend and refuses to say any more.

Back in the ballroom, Knight has managed to get Patricia to dance with him, unprotected by Francesca and Nathaniel who have gone for a walk together. When Knight goes for a drink, Withers rescues her and when Knight returns, Mrs Tullis asks him to dance. Knight drains his brandy glass and accepts his fate.

=== Tuesday January 9th 1930 ===

The ship steams into Port Said. Many passengers disembark to explore the ''souk'' and experience some exotic culture.

[[Browne]] spends his time ashore with [[Francesca Nicholson]]. It is obvious to everyone that romance is blossoming.

Back aboard, dinner that evening has an Egyptian theme. Over dinner, [[Julian Knight]] shows another side to his personality, taking a great interest in the investigators and their travels. Soon this becomes a suspicious amount of interest, as if he is trying to find out something specific. The investigators become suspicious.

In the middle of dinner a note is hand-delivered to [[Withers]]. The note requests a meeting at the ship's bow at 10 o'clock that evening, and is signed '[[Aldones]]'. Withers is to come alone.

At the end of dinner, to the great surprise of the investigators, Knight does not attempt to get Patricia to dance, but simply stands up and leaves. The investigators discuss the mysterious note and decide that Withers will go, but Saunders will follow and watch from the shadows.

At the bow, nobody turns up. Withers waits for only a few minutes, then convinced that this is a transparent plot of Knight's decides to return to the ballroom where, at about 5 to 10, Knight had turned up and immediately started to work once more on Patricia's affections.

Just as Withers starts to leave a lascar turns up with another note, requesting a 15 minute delay prior to the meeting. Withers does not buy this and hurries back to the ballroom where once more he waits for his chance and rescues Patricia from Knight. Patricia is starting to think that Withers has a real romantic interest in her, and tells Francesca who in turn tells Nathaniel.

Saunders hangs back near the bow and sees a shadowy figure arrive at 10.15, wait for a minute then slip away. Saunders fails to follow him.

=== Wednesday January 10th 1930 ===

[[Image:Suez.jpg|right|200px|thumb|The Suez Canal]]

The day is spent travelling through the Suez Canal, a fascinating and unique maritime experience.

At lunch [[Henrietta Tullis]] mentions the traditional end of voyage show at which each table puts on a small act. [[Francesca Nicholson]] happily suggests a performance of part of 'Carcosa: or the Queen and the Stranger', but both [[Withers]] and [[Saunders]] veto this, citing emotional reasons around the death of their 'friend' [[Talbot Estus]]. Instead it is agree to put on a recitation of Gilbert and Sullivan songs.

That afternoon the traditional Port vs Starboard indoor cricket match takes place. All of the investigators take part, but it is [[Andrew Saunders]] who shines, very oddly for a Scot. Winning the match virtually single-handedly, Saunders is carried to the bar in triumph!

Returning to his stateroom, [[Browne]] is shocked to find that he has been burgled, [[The Turner Codex]] is gone. Browne accuses [[Julian Knight]] of involvement, citing his recent behaviour and the mysterious notes. Knight is questioned by the Chief Purser and instantly cracks under the slightest pressure, revealing his involvement with a mysterious Italian who offered to get [[Withers]] out of his way in return for all he could learn about the investigators' reasons for travel to India.

Knight also reveals that he was told that a note left for 'Aldones' at the telegraph office could be used to make contact.

It is decided to draft such a note suggesting a midnight meeting somewhere on the ship, and that whoever picks up the note should be identified or even followed if possible.

The note is so drafted, delivered and picked up. The man who picks up the note is identified as [[Umberto]] Zavaroni from stateroom 217.

That evening no dancing follows dinner. Knight stays well away from Patricia and the ladies retire to play cards to allow the men to carry out their business.

Saunders, Withers and a couple of burly crewmen head to the bow while the chief purser and Browne let themselves into the room opposite Zavaroni's and wait.

At 11.45 a man appears at the door to 217, knocks and speaks in Italian. Watching through the peephole, brown sees him draw a stilleto as the Zavaroni's door starts to open.

Browne bursts into the corridor shouting a warning, Zavaroni opens the door. The assassin strikes, glancing a blow off of his target's money-belt. Browne steps out, swings a fist and smashes the attacker's nose back into his face knocking him out cold. The stilleto falls to the ground. A Yellow Sign is embossed on its handle.

''At this point, [[Marcus Gustafsson]] starts to play [[Umberto]] to everyone else's surprise. It is not revealed that Knight was never his player character, but a mere piece of misdirection, and instead he will be playing Umberto.''

It is soon revealed that the inconscious assassin burgled Browne's cabin and that Umberto has long been a thorn in the side of [[the Brothers of the Yellow
Sign]]. He says that 'Zavaroni' is a fake name, but that they can call him 'Umberto'.

The other investigators arrive in time to hear Umberto's tale of following their footsteps for months after his investigation of the activities of the Brotherhood caused him to become aware of their group. A former Vatican investigator, he takes the threat of [[Hastur]] very seriously and hopes they can be allies.

Saunders, Withers and Browne look at each other, in their eyes the unasked question - 'Can we trust this man?'. Browne notices that Umberto wears the symbol of [[The Order of the Sword of St. Jerome]], the Vatican's (surely mythical?) occult investigation arm.

Session 12

2006-09-06T10:56:15Z

202.74.213.227: /* Tuesday January 9th 1930 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 4th September, 2006==

=== Monday December 31st 1929 ===

Wimbledon Cemetary, the funeral of Doctor Frederick [[Bartlett]]. In the face of some cold stares from Bartlett's family, the investigators retire to a nearby pub and make plans to travel to Nepal. It is decided to book passage on the next available ship, which will be '[[The Viceroy of India]]', a new P&O liner which leaves Southampton on Friday.

It is agreed that to avoid the crossing of the Bay of Biscay, never pleasant at this time of year, the investigators will travel by train to Marseilles and meet the boat there on Sunday.

=== Friday January 5th 1930 ===

The investigators leave England and head to France, taking a train south to the port of Marseilles, where they buy the gear they feel they need for the joirney - walking shoes, packs, alpine rations and survival gear.

=== Saturday January 6th 1930 ===

All 3 investigators experience disturbing dreams containing themes and imagery from the Hastur mythos. All feel the influence of [[the King in Yellow]] is growing.

=== Sunday January 7th 1930 ===

The investigators board [[The Viceroy of India]] for the 11 day voyage to [[Bombay]]. Over the next week and a half they will spend a lot of time with their dining companions on Table 8, who they meet that lunchtime (with the exception of Mr Thomas, who does not appear until dinner).

[[Julian Knight]] - a diplomat returning to India, who implies that he may be some kind of a spy and clearly has an eye for the ladies and a taste for brandy

The Reverend [[Ian Gore]] - a missionary with the British Bible Society, on his way to continue spreading the Word in the interior of India

Mrs [[Henrietta Tullis]] - the matronly wife of the Cultural attache in Bombay, returning from visiting her sick sister and very much the 'mother hen' of the group

[[Stephen Thomas]] - a pudgy, bespectacled man. A minor civil servant taking up a new post in India, Stephen always has his head in a book.

Miss [[Francesca Nicholson]] - a pretty, vivacious typist on her way to visit relatives and see the sub-continent. She knows [[Nathaniel Browne]]'s work and is happy to meet him.

Miss [[Patricia Berry]] - Francesca's quieter, less glamorous friend and travelling companion. from a monied background, she busies herself in voluntary work. Julian Knight immediately latches on to her.

''Note: At this point, Julian Knight is being played by [[Marcus Gustafsson]] and the other players think that Julian is his new character in the campaign.''

By dinner that evening, Francesca has attached herself to Browne as is hanging on his every word, while poor Patricia finds herself the object of Knight's attentions, something that is making her increasingly uncomfortable.

During dinner Saunders sees a swarthy looking man looking into the dining room and was sure he'd seen him before, but could not place him.

At the end of the meal, when it is time for the ship's orchestra to strike up, [[Withers]] notices Knight is ordering a drink and chivalrously steps in, inviting Patricia to be his dance partner for the evening. Thus paired up, Withers and Browne go to the dancefloor, Knight to the bar and [[Andrew Saunders]] wanders off on his own for the evening.

Francesca returns to Nathaniel's stateroom where she discovers a copy of [[Talbot Estus]]'s play amongst Nathaniel's books. Remembering the dedication from '[[Tatters of the King]]' she asks if she can borrow it. Browne agrees.

Late that night, Withers hears Saunders return to his cabin. He wonders quite where his friend has been.

=== Monday January 8th 1930 ===

The ship steams on across the Mediterranean. A game of deck quoits takes place, and [[Henrietta Tullis]] presses the investigators into competing against the reverend [[Gore]]. Withers and Browne encounter [[Francesca Nicholson]] and [[Patricia Berry]] once more, and Patricia is impressed to see Withers win handily.

During the game, [[Saunders]] sees the swarthy stranger once more, but still cannot place him, or catch up with him.

[[Julian Knight]] arrives and tries once more to ingartiate himself with Patricia. while [[Browne]] continues to get on with Francesca like a house on fire.

By dinner, Saunders is constantly looking out for the stranger, and the others are starting to get a little worried about him. During the meal, Mrs Tullis and the Rev Gore box Knight in to stop him from bothering Patricia, and Withers finds himself once more spending time with young Miss Berry, whose reticence and shyness is slowly fading.

After dinner, as the orchestra strikes up, Withers notices Saunders sneaking off, so decides to follow him. Saunders passes into an area signposted as for 'Staff only'. Withers follows and runs into a lascar seaman. The lascar's raised voice alerts Saunders who emerges from a nearby door with an unreadable look upon his face. Withers sees the name "Head Steward Wilkins" on the door from which Saunders has emerged.

Saunders tells Withers that Wilkins is an old friend and refuses to say any more.

Back in the ballroom, Knight has managed to get Patricia to dance with him, unprotected by Francesca and Nathaniel who have gone for a walk together. When Knight goes for a drink, Withers rescues her and when Knight returns, Mrs Tullis asks him to dance. Knight drains his brandy glass and accepts his fate.

=== Tuesday January 9th 1930 ===

The ship steams into Port Said. Many passengers disembark to explore the ''souk'' and experience some exotic culture.

[[Browne]] spends his time ashore with [[Francesca Nicholson]]. It is obvious to everyone that romance is blossoming.

Back aboard, dinner that evening has an Egyptian theme. Over dinner, [[Julian Knight]] shows another side to his personality, taking a great interest in the investigators and their travels. Soon this becomes a suspicious amount of interest, as if he is trying to find out something specific. The investigators become suspicious.

In the middle of dinner a note is hand-delivered to [[Withers]]. The note requests a meeting at the ship's bow at 10 o'clock that evening, and is signed '[[Aldones]]'. Withers is to come alone.

At the end of dinner, to the great surprise of the investigators, Knight does not attempt to get Patricia to dance, but simply stands up and leaves. The investigators discuss the mysterious note and decide that Withers will go, but Saunders will follow and watch from the shadows.

At the bow, nobody turns up. Withers waits for only a few minutes, then convinced that this is a transparent plot of Knight's decides to return to the ballroom where, at about 5 to 10, Knight had turned up and immediately started to work once more on Patricia's affections.

Just as Withers starts to leave a lascar turns up with another note, requesting a 15 minute delay prior to the meeting. Withers does not buy this and hurries back to the ballroom where once more he waits for his chance and rescues Patricia from Knight. Patricia is starting to think that Withers has a real romantic interest in her, and tells Francesca who in turn tells Nathaniel.

Saunders hangs back near the bow and sees a shadowy figure arrive at 10.15, wait for a minute then slip away. Saunders fails to follow him.

=== Wednesday January 10th 1930 ===

[[Image:Suez.jpg|right|200px|thumb|The Suez Canal]]

The day is spent travelling through the Suez Canal, a fascinating and unique maritime experience.

At lunch [[Henrietta Tullis]] mentions the traditional end of voyage show at which each table puts on a small act. [[Francesca Nicholson]] happily suggests a performance of part of 'Carcosa: or the Queen and the Stranger', but both [[Withers]] and [[Saunders]] veto this, citing emotional reasons around the death of their 'friend' [[Talbot Estus]]. Instead it is agree to put on a recitation of Gilbert and Sullivan songs.

That afternoon the traditional Port vs Starboard indoor cricket match takes place. All of the investigators take place, but it is [[Andrew Saunders]] who shines, very oddly for a Scot. Winning the match virtually single-handedly, Saunders is carried to the bar in triumph!

Returning to his stateroom, [[Browne]] is shocked to find that he has been burgled, [[The Turner Codex]] is gone. Browne accuses [[Julian Knight]] of involvement, citing his recent behaviour and the mysterious notes. Knight is questioned by the Chief Purser and instantly cracks under the slightest pressure, revealing his involvement with a mysterious Italian who offered to get [[Withers]] out of his way in return for all he could learn about the investigators' reasons for travel to India.

Knight also reveals that he was told that a note left for 'Aldones' at the telegraph office could be used to make contact.

It is decided to draft such a note suggesting a midnight meeting somewhere on the ship, and that whoever picks up the note should be identified or even followed if possible.

The note is so drafted, delivered and picked up. The man who picks up the note is identified as [[Umberto]] Zavaroni from stateroom 217.

That evening no dancing follows dinner. Knight stays well away from Patricia and the ladies retire to play cards to allow the men to carry out their business.

Saunders, Withers and a couple of burly crewmen head to the bow while the chief purser and Browne let themselves into the room opposite Zavaroni's and wait.

At 11.45 a man appears at the door to 217, knocks and speaks in Italian. Watching through the peephole, brown sees him draw a stilleto as the Zavaroni's door starts to open.

Browne bursts into the corridor shouting a warning, Zavaroni opens the door. The assassin strikes, glancing a blow off of his target's money-belt. Browne steps out, swings a fist and smashes the attacker's nose back into his face knocking him out cold. The stilleto falls to the ground. A Yellow Sign is embossed on its handle.

''At this point, [[Marcus Gustafsson]] starts to play [[Umberto]] to everyone else's surprise. It is not revealed that Knight was never his player character, but a mere piece of misdirection, and instead he will be playing Umberto.''

It is soon revealed that the inconscious assassin burgled Browne's cabin and that Umberto has long been a thorn in the side of [[the Brothers of the Yellow
Sign]]. He says that 'Zavaroni' is a fake name, but that they can call him 'Umberto'.

The other investigators arrive in time to hear Umberto's tale of following their footsteps for months after his investigation of the activities of the Brotherhood caused him to become aware of their group. A former Vatican investigator, he takes the threat of [[Hastur]] very seriously and hopes they can be allies.

Saunders, Withers and Browne look at each other, in their eyes the unasked question - 'Can we trust this man?'. Browne notices that Umberto wears the symbol of [[The Order of the Sword of St. Jerome]], the Vatican's (surely mythical?) occult investigation arm.

Session 12

2006-09-06T10:53:13Z

202.74.213.227: /* Sunday January 7th 1930 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 4th September, 2006==

=== Monday December 31st 1929 ===

Wimbledon Cemetary, the funeral of Doctor Frederick [[Bartlett]]. In the face of some cold stares from Bartlett's family, the investigators retire to a nearby pub and make plans to travel to Nepal. It is decided to book passage on the next available ship, which will be '[[The Viceroy of India]]', a new P&O liner which leaves Southampton on Friday.

It is agreed that to avoid the crossing of the Bay of Biscay, never pleasant at this time of year, the investigators will travel by train to Marseilles and meet the boat there on Sunday.

=== Friday January 5th 1930 ===

The investigators leave England and head to France, taking a train south to the port of Marseilles, where they buy the gear they feel they need for the joirney - walking shoes, packs, alpine rations and survival gear.

=== Saturday January 6th 1930 ===

All 3 investigators experience disturbing dreams containing themes and imagery from the Hastur mythos. All feel the influence of [[the King in Yellow]] is growing.

=== Sunday January 7th 1930 ===

The investigators board [[The Viceroy of India]] for the 11 day voyage to [[Bombay]]. Over the next week and a half they will spend a lot of time with their dining companions on Table 8, who they meet that lunchtime (with the exception of Mr Thomas, who does not appear until dinner).

[[Julian Knight]] - a diplomat returning to India, who implies that he may be some kind of a spy and clearly has an eye for the ladies and a taste for brandy

The Reverend [[Ian Gore]] - a missionary with the British Bible Society, on his way to continue spreading the Word in the interior of India

Mrs [[Henrietta Tullis]] - the matronly wife of the Cultural attache in Bombay, returning from visiting her sick sister and very much the 'mother hen' of the group

[[Stephen Thomas]] - a pudgy, bespectacled man. A minor civil servant taking up a new post in India, Stephen always has his head in a book.

Miss [[Francesca Nicholson]] - a pretty, vivacious typist on her way to visit relatives and see the sub-continent. She knows [[Nathaniel Browne]]'s work and is happy to meet him.

Miss [[Patricia Berry]] - Francesca's quieter, less glamorous friend and travelling companion. from a monied background, she busies herself in voluntary work. Julian Knight immediately latches on to her.

''Note: At this point, Julian Knight is being played by [[Marcus Gustafsson]] and the other players think that Julian is his new character in the campaign.''

By dinner that evening, Francesca has attached herself to Browne as is hanging on his every word, while poor Patricia finds herself the object of Knight's attentions, something that is making her increasingly uncomfortable.

During dinner Saunders sees a swarthy looking man looking into the dining room and was sure he'd seen him before, but could not place him.

At the end of the meal, when it is time for the ship's orchestra to strike up, [[Withers]] notices Knight is ordering a drink and chivalrously steps in, inviting Patricia to be his dance partner for the evening. Thus paired up, Withers and Browne go to the dancefloor, Knight to the bar and [[Andrew Saunders]] wanders off on his own for the evening.

Francesca returns to Nathaniel's stateroom where she discovers a copy of [[Talbot Estus]]'s play amongst Nathaniel's books. Remembering the dedication from '[[Tatters of the King]]' she asks if she can borrow it. Browne agrees.

Late that night, Withers hears Saunders return to his cabin. He wonders quite where his friend has been.

=== Monday January 8th 1930 ===

The ship steams on across the Mediterranean. A game of deck quoits takes place, and [[Henrietta Tullis]] presses the investigators into competing against the reverend [[Gore]]. Withers and Browne encounter [[Francesca Nicholson]] and [[Patricia Berry]] once more, and Patricia is impressed to see Withers win handily.

During the game, [[Saunders]] sees the swarthy stranger once more, but still cannot place him, or catch up with him.

[[Julian Knight]] arrives and tries once more to ingartiate himself with Patricia. while [[Browne]] continues to get on with Francesca like a house on fire.

By dinner, Saunders is constantly looking out for the stranger, and the others are starting to get a little worried about him. During the meal, Mrs Tullis and the Rev Gore box Knight in to stop him from bothering Patricia, and Withers finds himself once more spending time with young Miss Berry, whose reticence and shyness is slowly fading.

After dinner, as the orchestra strikes up, Withers notices Saunders sneaking off, so decides to follow him. Saunders passes into an area signposted as for 'Staff only'. Withers follows and runs into a lascar seaman. The lascar's raised voice alerts Saunders who emerges from a nearby door with an unreadable look upon his face. Withers sees the name "Head Steward Wilkins" on the door from which Saunders has emerged.

Saunders tells Withers that Wilkins is an old friend and refuses to say any more.

Back in the ballroom, Knight has managed to get Patricia to dance with him, unprotected by Francesca and Nathaniel who have gone for a walk together. When Knight goes for a drink, Withers rescues her and when Knight returns, Mrs Tullis asks him to dance. Knight drains his brandy glass and accepts his fate.

=== Tuesday January 9th 1930 ===

The ship steams into Port Said. Many passengers disembark to explore the ''souk'' and experience some exotic culture.

[[Browne]] spends his time ashore with [[Francesca Nicholson]]. It is obvious to everyone that romance is blossoming.

Back aboard, dinner that evening has an Egyptian theme. Over dinner, [[Julian Knight]] shows another side to his personality, taking a great interest in the investigators and their travels. Soon this becomes a suspicious amount of interest, as if he is trying to find out something specific. The investigators become suspicious.

In the middle of dinner a note is hand-delivered to [[Withers]]. The note requests a meeting at the ship's bow at 10 o'clock that evening, and is signed '[[Aldones]]'. Withers is to come alone.

At the end of dinner, to the great surprise of the investigators, Knight does not attempt to get Patricia to dance, but simply stands up and leaves. the investigators discuss the mysterious note and decide that Withers will go, but Saunders will follow and watch from the shadows.

At the bow, nobody turns up. Withers waits for only a few minutes, then convinced that this is a transparent plot of Knight's decides to return to the ballroom where, at about 5 to 10, Knight had turned up and immediately started to work once more on Patricia's affections.

Just as Withers starts to leave a lascar turns up with another note, requesting a 15 minute delay prior to the meeting. Withers does not buy this and hurried back to the ballroom where once more he waits for his chance and rescues Patricia from Knight. Patricia is starting to think that Withers has a real romantic interest in her, and tells Francesca who in turn tells Nathaniel.

Saunders hangs back near the bow and sees a shadowy figure arrive at 10.15, wait for a minute then slip away. Saunders fails to follow him.

=== Wednesday January 10th 1930 ===

[[Image:Suez.jpg|right|200px|thumb|The Suez Canal]]

The day is spent travelling through the Suez Canal, a fascinating and unique maritime experience.

At lunch [[Henrietta Tullis]] mentions the traditional end of voyage show at which each table puts on a small act. [[Francesca Nicholson]] happily suggests a performance of part of 'Carcosa: or the Queen and the Stranger', but both [[Withers]] and [[Saunders]] veto this, citing emotional reasons around the death of their 'friend' [[Talbot Estus]]. Instead it is agree to put on a recitation of Gilbert and Sullivan songs.

That afternoon the traditional Port vs Starboard indoor cricket match takes place. All of the investigators take place, but it is [[Andrew Saunders]] who shines, very oddly for a Scot. Winning the match virtually single-handedly, Saunders is carried to the bar in triumph!

Returning to his stateroom, [[Browne]] is shocked to find that he has been burgled, [[The Turner Codex]] is gone. Browne accuses [[Julian Knight]] of involvement, citing his recent behaviour and the mysterious notes. Knight is questioned by the Chief Purser and instantly cracks under the slightest pressure, revealing his involvement with a mysterious Italian who offered to get [[Withers]] out of his way in return for all he could learn about the investigators' reasons for travel to India.

Knight also reveals that he was told that a note left for 'Aldones' at the telegraph office could be used to make contact.

It is decided to draft such a note suggesting a midnight meeting somewhere on the ship, and that whoever picks up the note should be identified or even followed if possible.

The note is so drafted, delivered and picked up. The man who picks up the note is identified as [[Umberto]] Zavaroni from stateroom 217.

That evening no dancing follows dinner. Knight stays well away from Patricia and the ladies retire to play cards to allow the men to carry out their business.

Saunders, Withers and a couple of burly crewmen head to the bow while the chief purser and Browne let themselves into the room opposite Zavaroni's and wait.

At 11.45 a man appears at the door to 217, knocks and speaks in Italian. Watching through the peephole, brown sees him draw a stilleto as the Zavaroni's door starts to open.

Browne bursts into the corridor shouting a warning, Zavaroni opens the door. The assassin strikes, glancing a blow off of his target's money-belt. Browne steps out, swings a fist and smashes the attacker's nose back into his face knocking him out cold. The stilleto falls to the ground. A Yellow Sign is embossed on its handle.

''At this point, [[Marcus Gustafsson]] starts to play [[Umberto]] to everyone else's surprise. It is not revealed that Knight was never his player character, but a mere piece of misdirection, and instead he will be playing Umberto.''

It is soon revealed that the inconscious assassin burgled Browne's cabin and that Umberto has long been a thorn in the side of [[the Brothers of the Yellow
Sign]]. He says that 'Zavaroni' is a fake name, but that they can call him 'Umberto'.

The other investigators arrive in time to hear Umberto's tale of following their footsteps for months after his investigation of the activities of the Brotherhood caused him to become aware of their group. A former Vatican investigator, he takes the threat of [[Hastur]] very seriously and hopes they can be allies.

Saunders, Withers and Browne look at each other, in their eyes the unasked question - 'Can we trust this man?'. Browne notices that Umberto wears the symbol of [[The Order of the Sword of St. Jerome]], the Vatican's (surely mythical?) occult investigation arm.

Session 12

2006-09-06T10:51:59Z

202.74.213.227: /* Monday January 8th 1930 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 4th September, 2006==

=== Monday December 31st 1929 ===

Wimbledon Cemetary, the funeral of Doctor Frederick [[Bartlett]]. In the face of some cold stares from Bartlett's family, the investigators retire to a nearby pub and make plans to travel to Nepal. It is decided to book passage on the next available ship, which will be '[[The Viceroy of India]]', a new P&O liner which leaves Southampton on Friday.

It is agreed that to avoid the crossing of the Bay of Biscay, never pleasant at this time of year, the investigators will travel by train to Marseilles and meet the boat there on Sunday.

=== Friday January 5th 1930 ===

The investigators leave England and head to France, taking a train south to the port of Marseilles, where they buy the gear they feel they need for the joirney - walking shoes, packs, alpine rations and survival gear.

=== Saturday January 6th 1930 ===

All 3 investigators experience disturbing dreams containing themes and imagery from the Hastur mythos. All feel the influence of [[the King in Yellow]] is growing.

=== Sunday January 7th 1930 ===

The investigators board [[The Viceroy of India]] for the 11 day voyage to [[Bombay]]. Over the next week and a half they will spend a lot of time with their dining companions on Table 8, who they meet that lunchtime (with the exception of Mr Thomas, who does not appear until dinner).

[[Julian Knight]] - a diplomat returning to India, who implies that he may be some kind of a spy and clearly has an eye for the ladies and a taste for brandy

The Reverend [[Ian Gore]] - a missionary with the British Bible Society, on his way to continue spreading the Word in the interior of India

Mrs [[Henrietta Tullis]] - the matronly wife of the Cultural attache in Bombay, returning from visiting her sick sister and very much the 'mother hen' of the group

[[Stephen Thomas]] - a pudgy, bespectacled man. A minor civil servant taking up a new post in India, Stephen always has his head in a book.

Miss [[Francesca Nicholson]] - a pretty, vivacious typist on her way to visit relatives and see the sub-continent. She knows [[Nathaniel Browne]]'s work and is happy to meet him.

Miss [[Patricia Berry]] - Francesca's quieter, less glamorous friend and travelling companion. from a monied background, she busies herself in voluntary work. Julian Knight immediately latches on to her.

''Note: At this point, Julian Knight is being played by [[Marcus Gustafsson]] and the other players think that Julian is his new character in the campaign.''

By dinner that evening, Francesca has attached herself to Browne as is hanging on his every word, while poor Patricia finds herself the object of Knight's attentions, something that is making her increasingly uncomfortable.

During dinner Saunders sees a swarthy looking man looking into the dining room and was sure he'd seen him before, but could not place him.

At the end of the meal, when it is time for the ship's orchestra to strike up, [[Withers]] notices Knight is ordering a drink and chivalrously sterps in, inviting Patricia to be his dance partner for the evening. Thus paired up, Withers and Browne go to the dancefloor, Knight to the bar and [[Andrew Saunders]] wanders off on his own for the evening.

Francesca returns to Nathaniel's stateroom where she discovers a copy of [[Talbot Estus]]'s play amongst Nathaniel's books. Remembering the dedication from '[[Tatters of the King]]' she asks if she can borrow it. Browne agrees.

Late that night, Withers hears Saunders return to his cabin. He wonders quite where his friend has been.

=== Monday January 8th 1930 ===

The ship steams on across the Mediterranean. A game of deck quoits takes place, and [[Henrietta Tullis]] presses the investigators into competing against the reverend [[Gore]]. Withers and Browne encounter [[Francesca Nicholson]] and [[Patricia Berry]] once more, and Patricia is impressed to see Withers win handily.

During the game, [[Saunders]] sees the swarthy stranger once more, but still cannot place him, or catch up with him.

[[Julian Knight]] arrives and tries once more to ingartiate himself with Patricia. while [[Browne]] continues to get on with Francesca like a house on fire.

By dinner, Saunders is constantly looking out for the stranger, and the others are starting to get a little worried about him. During the meal, Mrs Tullis and the Rev Gore box Knight in to stop him from bothering Patricia, and Withers finds himself once more spending time with young Miss Berry, whose reticence and shyness is slowly fading.

After dinner, as the orchestra strikes up, Withers notices Saunders sneaking off, so decides to follow him. Saunders passes into an area signposted as for 'Staff only'. Withers follows and runs into a lascar seaman. The lascar's raised voice alerts Saunders who emerges from a nearby door with an unreadable look upon his face. Withers sees the name "Head Steward Wilkins" on the door from which Saunders has emerged.

Saunders tells Withers that Wilkins is an old friend and refuses to say any more.

Back in the ballroom, Knight has managed to get Patricia to dance with him, unprotected by Francesca and Nathaniel who have gone for a walk together. When Knight goes for a drink, Withers rescues her and when Knight returns, Mrs Tullis asks him to dance. Knight drains his brandy glass and accepts his fate.

=== Tuesday January 9th 1930 ===

The ship steams into Port Said. Many passengers disembark to explore the ''souk'' and experience some exotic culture.

[[Browne]] spends his time ashore with [[Francesca Nicholson]]. It is obvious to everyone that romance is blossoming.

Back aboard, dinner that evening has an Egyptian theme. Over dinner, [[Julian Knight]] shows another side to his personality, taking a great interest in the investigators and their travels. Soon this becomes a suspicious amount of interest, as if he is trying to find out something specific. The investigators become suspicious.

In the middle of dinner a note is hand-delivered to [[Withers]]. The note requests a meeting at the ship's bow at 10 o'clock that evening, and is signed '[[Aldones]]'. Withers is to come alone.

At the end of dinner, to the great surprise of the investigators, Knight does not attempt to get Patricia to dance, but simply stands up and leaves. the investigators discuss the mysterious note and decide that Withers will go, but Saunders will follow and watch from the shadows.

At the bow, nobody turns up. Withers waits for only a few minutes, then convinced that this is a transparent plot of Knight's decides to return to the ballroom where, at about 5 to 10, Knight had turned up and immediately started to work once more on Patricia's affections.

Just as Withers starts to leave a lascar turns up with another note, requesting a 15 minute delay prior to the meeting. Withers does not buy this and hurried back to the ballroom where once more he waits for his chance and rescues Patricia from Knight. Patricia is starting to think that Withers has a real romantic interest in her, and tells Francesca who in turn tells Nathaniel.

Saunders hangs back near the bow and sees a shadowy figure arrive at 10.15, wait for a minute then slip away. Saunders fails to follow him.

=== Wednesday January 10th 1930 ===

[[Image:Suez.jpg|right|200px|thumb|The Suez Canal]]

The day is spent travelling through the Suez Canal, a fascinating and unique maritime experience.

At lunch [[Henrietta Tullis]] mentions the traditional end of voyage show at which each table puts on a small act. [[Francesca Nicholson]] happily suggests a performance of part of 'Carcosa: or the Queen and the Stranger', but both [[Withers]] and [[Saunders]] veto this, citing emotional reasons around the death of their 'friend' [[Talbot Estus]]. Instead it is agree to put on a recitation of Gilbert and Sullivan songs.

That afternoon the traditional Port vs Starboard indoor cricket match takes place. All of the investigators take place, but it is [[Andrew Saunders]] who shines, very oddly for a Scot. Winning the match virtually single-handedly, Saunders is carried to the bar in triumph!

Returning to his stateroom, [[Browne]] is shocked to find that he has been burgled, [[The Turner Codex]] is gone. Browne accuses [[Julian Knight]] of involvement, citing his recent behaviour and the mysterious notes. Knight is questioned by the Chief Purser and instantly cracks under the slightest pressure, revealing his involvement with a mysterious Italian who offered to get [[Withers]] out of his way in return for all he could learn about the investigators' reasons for travel to India.

Knight also reveals that he was told that a note left for 'Aldones' at the telegraph office could be used to make contact.

It is decided to draft such a note suggesting a midnight meeting somewhere on the ship, and that whoever picks up the note should be identified or even followed if possible.

The note is so drafted, delivered and picked up. The man who picks up the note is identified as [[Umberto]] Zavaroni from stateroom 217.

That evening no dancing follows dinner. Knight stays well away from Patricia and the ladies retire to play cards to allow the men to carry out their business.

Saunders, Withers and a couple of burly crewmen head to the bow while the chief purser and Browne let themselves into the room opposite Zavaroni's and wait.

At 11.45 a man appears at the door to 217, knocks and speaks in Italian. Watching through the peephole, brown sees him draw a stilleto as the Zavaroni's door starts to open.

Browne bursts into the corridor shouting a warning, Zavaroni opens the door. The assassin strikes, glancing a blow off of his target's money-belt. Browne steps out, swings a fist and smashes the attacker's nose back into his face knocking him out cold. The stilleto falls to the ground. A Yellow Sign is embossed on its handle.

''At this point, [[Marcus Gustafsson]] starts to play [[Umberto]] to everyone else's surprise. It is not revealed that Knight was never his player character, but a mere piece of misdirection, and instead he will be playing Umberto.''

It is soon revealed that the inconscious assassin burgled Browne's cabin and that Umberto has long been a thorn in the side of [[the Brothers of the Yellow
Sign]]. He says that 'Zavaroni' is a fake name, but that they can call him 'Umberto'.

The other investigators arrive in time to hear Umberto's tale of following their footsteps for months after his investigation of the activities of the Brotherhood caused him to become aware of their group. A former Vatican investigator, he takes the threat of [[Hastur]] very seriously and hopes they can be allies.

Saunders, Withers and Browne look at each other, in their eyes the unasked question - 'Can we trust this man?'. Browne notices that Umberto wears the symbol of [[The Order of the Sword of St. Jerome]], the Vatican's (surely mythical?) occult investigation arm.

Session 12

2006-09-06T10:49:51Z

202.74.213.227: /* Sunday January 7th 1930 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 4th September, 2006==

=== Monday December 31st 1929 ===

Wimbledon Cemetary, the funeral of Doctor Frederick [[Bartlett]]. In the face of some cold stares from Bartlett's family, the investigators retire to a nearby pub and make plans to travel to Nepal. It is decided to book passage on the next available ship, which will be '[[The Viceroy of India]]', a new P&O liner which leaves Southampton on Friday.

It is agreed that to avoid the crossing of the Bay of Biscay, never pleasant at this time of year, the investigators will travel by train to Marseilles and meet the boat there on Sunday.

=== Friday January 5th 1930 ===

The investigators leave England and head to France, taking a train south to the port of Marseilles, where they buy the gear they feel they need for the joirney - walking shoes, packs, alpine rations and survival gear.

=== Saturday January 6th 1930 ===

All 3 investigators experience disturbing dreams containing themes and imagery from the Hastur mythos. All feel the influence of [[the King in Yellow]] is growing.

=== Sunday January 7th 1930 ===

The investigators board [[The Viceroy of India]] for the 11 day voyage to [[Bombay]]. Over the next week and a half they will spend a lot of time with their dining companions on Table 8, who they meet that lunchtime (with the exception of Mr Thomas, who does not appear until dinner).

[[Julian Knight]] - a diplomat returning to India, who implies that he may be some kind of a spy and clearly has an eye for the ladies and a taste for brandy

The Reverend [[Ian Gore]] - a missionary with the British Bible Society, on his way to continue spreading the Word in the interior of India

Mrs [[Henrietta Tullis]] - the matronly wife of the Cultural attache in Bombay, returning from visiting her sick sister and very much the 'mother hen' of the group

[[Stephen Thomas]] - a pudgy, bespectacled man. A minor civil servant taking up a new post in India, Stephen always has his head in a book.

Miss [[Francesca Nicholson]] - a pretty, vivacious typist on her way to visit relatives and see the sub-continent. She knows [[Nathaniel Browne]]'s work and is happy to meet him.

Miss [[Patricia Berry]] - Francesca's quieter, less glamorous friend and travelling companion. from a monied background, she busies herself in voluntary work. Julian Knight immediately latches on to her.

''Note: At this point, Julian Knight is being played by [[Marcus Gustafsson]] and the other players think that Julian is his new character in the campaign.''

By dinner that evening, Francesca has attached herself to Browne as is hanging on his every word, while poor Patricia finds herself the object of Knight's attentions, something that is making her increasingly uncomfortable.

During dinner Saunders sees a swarthy looking man looking into the dining room and was sure he'd seen him before, but could not place him.

At the end of the meal, when it is time for the ship's orchestra to strike up, [[Withers]] notices Knight is ordering a drink and chivalrously sterps in, inviting Patricia to be his dance partner for the evening. Thus paired up, Withers and Browne go to the dancefloor, Knight to the bar and [[Andrew Saunders]] wanders off on his own for the evening.

Francesca returns to Nathaniel's stateroom where she discovers a copy of [[Talbot Estus]]'s play amongst Nathaniel's books. Remembering the dedication from '[[Tatters of the King]]' she asks if she can borrow it. Browne agrees.

Late that night, Withers hears Saunders return to his cabin. He wonders quite where his friend has been.

=== Monday January 8th 1930 ===

The ship steams on across the Mediterranean. A game of deck quoits takes place, and [[Henrietta Tullis]] presses the investigators into competing against the reverend [[Gore]]. Withers and Browne encounter [[Francesca Nicholson]] and [[Patricia Berry]] once more, and Patricia is impressed to see Withers win handily.

During the game, [[Saunders]] sees the swarthy stranger once more, but still cannot place him, or catch up with him.

[[Julian Knight]] arrives and tries once more to ingartiate himself with Patricia. while [[Browne]] continues to get on with Francesca like a house on fire.

By dinner, Saunders is constantly looking out for the stranger, and the others are starting to get a little worried about him. During the meal, Mrs Tullis and the Rev Gore box Knight in to stop him from bothering Patricia, and Withers finds hismelf once more spending time with young Miss Berry, whose reticence and shyness is slowly fading.

After dinner, as the orchestra strikes up, Withers notices Saunders sneaking off, so decides to follow him. Saunders passes into an area signposted as for 'Staff only'. Withers follows and runs into a lascar seaman. The lascar's raised voice alerts Saunders who emerges from a nearby door with an unreadable look upon his face. Withers sees the name "Head Steward Wilkins" on the door from which Saunders has emerged.

Saunders tells Withers that Wilkins is an old friend and refuses to say any more.

Back in the ballroom, Knight has managed to get Patricia to dance with him, unprotected by Francesca and Nathaniel who have gone for a walk together. When Knight goes for a drink, Withers rescues her and when Knight returns, Mrs Tullis asks him to dance. Knight drains his brandy glass and accepts his fate.

=== Tuesday January 9th 1930 ===

The ship steams into Port Said. Many passengers disembark to explore the ''souk'' and experience some exotic culture.

[[Browne]] spends his time ashore with [[Francesca Nicholson]]. It is obvious to everyone that romance is blossoming.

Back aboard, dinner that evening has an Egyptian theme. Over dinner, [[Julian Knight]] shows another side to his personality, taking a great interest in the investigators and their travels. Soon this becomes a suspicious amount of interest, as if he is trying to find out something specific. The investigators become suspicious.

In the middle of dinner a note is hand-delivered to [[Withers]]. The note requests a meeting at the ship's bow at 10 o'clock that evening, and is signed '[[Aldones]]'. Withers is to come alone.

At the end of dinner, to the great surprise of the investigators, Knight does not attempt to get Patricia to dance, but simply stands up and leaves. the investigators discuss the mysterious note and decide that Withers will go, but Saunders will follow and watch from the shadows.

At the bow, nobody turns up. Withers waits for only a few minutes, then convinced that this is a transparent plot of Knight's decides to return to the ballroom where, at about 5 to 10, Knight had turned up and immediately started to work once more on Patricia's affections.

Just as Withers starts to leave a lascar turns up with another note, requesting a 15 minute delay prior to the meeting. Withers does not buy this and hurried back to the ballroom where once more he waits for his chance and rescues Patricia from Knight. Patricia is starting to think that Withers has a real romantic interest in her, and tells Francesca who in turn tells Nathaniel.

Saunders hangs back near the bow and sees a shadowy figure arrive at 10.15, wait for a minute then slip away. Saunders fails to follow him.

=== Wednesday January 10th 1930 ===

[[Image:Suez.jpg|right|200px|thumb|The Suez Canal]]

The day is spent travelling through the Suez Canal, a fascinating and unique maritime experience.

At lunch [[Henrietta Tullis]] mentions the traditional end of voyage show at which each table puts on a small act. [[Francesca Nicholson]] happily suggests a performance of part of 'Carcosa: or the Queen and the Stranger', but both [[Withers]] and [[Saunders]] veto this, citing emotional reasons around the death of their 'friend' [[Talbot Estus]]. Instead it is agree to put on a recitation of Gilbert and Sullivan songs.

That afternoon the traditional Port vs Starboard indoor cricket match takes place. All of the investigators take place, but it is [[Andrew Saunders]] who shines, very oddly for a Scot. Winning the match virtually single-handedly, Saunders is carried to the bar in triumph!

Returning to his stateroom, [[Browne]] is shocked to find that he has been burgled, [[The Turner Codex]] is gone. Browne accuses [[Julian Knight]] of involvement, citing his recent behaviour and the mysterious notes. Knight is questioned by the Chief Purser and instantly cracks under the slightest pressure, revealing his involvement with a mysterious Italian who offered to get [[Withers]] out of his way in return for all he could learn about the investigators' reasons for travel to India.

Knight also reveals that he was told that a note left for 'Aldones' at the telegraph office could be used to make contact.

It is decided to draft such a note suggesting a midnight meeting somewhere on the ship, and that whoever picks up the note should be identified or even followed if possible.

The note is so drafted, delivered and picked up. The man who picks up the note is identified as [[Umberto]] Zavaroni from stateroom 217.

That evening no dancing follows dinner. Knight stays well away from Patricia and the ladies retire to play cards to allow the men to carry out their business.

Saunders, Withers and a couple of burly crewmen head to the bow while the chief purser and Browne let themselves into the room opposite Zavaroni's and wait.

At 11.45 a man appears at the door to 217, knocks and speaks in Italian. Watching through the peephole, brown sees him draw a stilleto as the Zavaroni's door starts to open.

Browne bursts into the corridor shouting a warning, Zavaroni opens the door. The assassin strikes, glancing a blow off of his target's money-belt. Browne steps out, swings a fist and smashes the attacker's nose back into his face knocking him out cold. The stilleto falls to the ground. A Yellow Sign is embossed on its handle.

''At this point, [[Marcus Gustafsson]] starts to play [[Umberto]] to everyone else's surprise. It is not revealed that Knight was never his player character, but a mere piece of misdirection, and instead he will be playing Umberto.''

It is soon revealed that the inconscious assassin burgled Browne's cabin and that Umberto has long been a thorn in the side of [[the Brothers of the Yellow
Sign]]. He says that 'Zavaroni' is a fake name, but that they can call him 'Umberto'.

The other investigators arrive in time to hear Umberto's tale of following their footsteps for months after his investigation of the activities of the Brotherhood caused him to become aware of their group. A former Vatican investigator, he takes the threat of [[Hastur]] very seriously and hopes they can be allies.

Saunders, Withers and Browne look at each other, in their eyes the unasked question - 'Can we trust this man?'. Browne notices that Umberto wears the symbol of [[The Order of the Sword of St. Jerome]], the Vatican's (surely mythical?) occult investigation arm.

Session 12

2006-09-06T09:27:28Z

202.74.213.227: /* Wednesday January 10th 1930 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 4th September, 2006==

=== Monday December 31st 1929 ===

Wimbledon Cemetary, the funeral of Doctor Frederick [[Bartlett]]. In the face of some cold stares from Bartlett's family, the investigators retire to a nearby pub and make plans to travel to Nepal. It is decided to book passage on the next available ship, which will be '[[The Viceroy of India]]', a new P&O liner which leaves Southampton on Friday.

It is agreed that to avoid the crossing of the Bay of Biscay, never pleasant at this time of year, the investigators will travel by train to Marseilles and meet the boat there on Sunday.

=== Friday January 5th 1930 ===

The investigators leave England and head to France, taking a train south to the port of Marseilles, where they buy the gear they feel they need for the joirney - walking shoes, packs, alpine rations and survival gear.

=== Saturday January 6th 1930 ===

All 3 investigators experience disturbing dreams containing themes and imagery from the Hastur mythos. All feel the influence of [[the King in Yellow]] is growing.

=== Sunday January 7th 1930 ===

The investigators board [[The Viceroy of India]] for the 11 day voyage to [[Bombay]]. Over the next week and a half they will spend a lot of time with their dining companions on Table 8, who they meet that lunchtime (with the excpetion of Mr Thomas, who does not appear until dinner.

[[Julian Knight]] - a diplomat returning to India, who implies that he may be some kind of a spy and clearly has an eye for the ladies and a taste for brandy

The Reverend [[Ian Gore]] - a missionary with the British Bible Society, on his way to continue spreading the Word in the interior of India

Mrs [[Henrietta Tullis]] - the matronly wife of the Cultural attache in Bombay, returning from visiting her sick sister and very much the 'mother hen' of the group

[[Stephen Thomas]] - a pudgy, bespectacled man. A minor civil servant taking up a new post in India, Stephen always has his head in a book.

Miss [[Francesca Nicholson]] - a pretty, vivacious typist on her way to visit relatives and see the sub-continent. She knows [[Nathaniel Browne]]'s work and is happy to meet him.

Miss [[Patricia Berry]] - Francesca's quieter, less glamorous friend and travelling companion. from a monied background, she busies herself in voluntary work. Julian Knight immediately latches on to her.

''Note: At this point, Julian Knight is being played by [[Marcus Gustafsson]] and the other players think that Julian is his new character in the campaign.''

By dinner that evening, Francesca has attached herself to Browne as is hanging on his every word, while poor Patricia finds herself the object of Knight's attentions, something that is making her increasingly uncomfortable.

During dinner Saunders sees a swarthy looking man looking into the dining room and was sure he'd seen him before, but could not place him.

At the end of the meal, when it is time for the ship's orchestra to strike up, [[Withers]] notices Knight is ordering a drink and chivalrously sterps in, inviting Patricia to be his dance partner for the evening. Thus paired up, Withers and Browne go to the dancefloor, Knight to the bar and [[Andrew Saunders]] wanders off on his own for the evening.

Francesca returns to Nathaniel's stateroom where she discovers a copy of [[Talbot Estus]]'s play amongst Nathaniel's books. Remembering the dedication from '[[Tatters of the King]]' she asks if she can borrow it. Browne agrees.

Late that night, Withers hears Saunders return to his cabin. He wonders quite where his friend has been.

=== Monday January 8th 1930 ===

The ship steams on across the Mediterranean. A game of deck quoits takes place, and [[Henrietta Tullis]] presses the investigators into competing against the reverend [[Gore]]. Withers and Browne encounter [[Francesca Nicholson]] and [[Patricia Berry]] once more, and Patricia is impressed to see Withers win handily.

During the game, [[Saunders]] sees the swarthy stranger once more, but still cannot place him, or catch up with him.

[[Julian Knight]] arrives and tries once more to ingartiate himself with Patricia. while [[Browne]] continues to get on with Francesca like a house on fire.

By dinner, Saunders is constantly looking out for the stranger, and the others are starting to get a little worried about him. During the meal, Mrs Tullis and the Rev Gore box Knight in to stop him from bothering Patricia, and Withers finds hismelf once more spending time with young Miss Berry, whose reticence and shyness is slowly fading.

After dinner, as the orchestra strikes up, Withers notices Saunders sneaking off, so decides to follow him. Saunders passes into an area signposted as for 'Staff only'. Withers follows and runs into a lascar seaman. The lascar's raised voice alerts Saunders who emerges from a nearby door with an unreadable look upon his face. Withers sees the name "Head Steward Wilkins" on the door from which Saunders has emerged.

Saunders tells Withers that Wilkins is an old friend and refuses to say any more.

Back in the ballroom, Knight has managed to get Patricia to dance with him, unprotected by Francesca and Nathaniel who have gone for a walk together. When Knight goes for a drink, Withers rescues her and when Knight returns, Mrs Tullis asks him to dance. Knight drains his brandy glass and accepts his fate.

=== Tuesday January 9th 1930 ===

The ship steams into Port Said. Many passengers disembark to explore the ''souk'' and experience some exotic culture.

[[Browne]] spends his time ashore with [[Francesca Nicholson]]. It is obvious to everyone that romance is blossoming.

Back aboard, dinner that evening has an Egyptian theme. Over dinner, [[Julian Knight]] shows another side to his personality, taking a great interest in the investigators and their travels. Soon this becomes a suspicious amount of interest, as if he is trying to find out something specific. The investigators become suspicious.

In the middle of dinner a note is hand-delivered to [[Withers]]. The note requests a meeting at the ship's bow at 10 o'clock that evening, and is signed '[[Aldones]]'. Withers is to come alone.

At the end of dinner, to the great surprise of the investigators, Knight does not attempt to get Patricia to dance, but simply stands up and leaves. the investigators discuss the mysterious note and decide that Withers will go, but Saunders will follow and watch from the shadows.

At the bow, nobody turns up. Withers waits for only a few minutes, then convinced that this is a transparent plot of Knight's decides to return to the ballroom where, at about 5 to 10, Knight had turned up and immediately started to work once more on Patricia's affections.

Just as Withers starts to leave a lascar turns up with another note, requesting a 15 minute delay prior to the meeting. Withers does not buy this and hurried back to the ballroom where once more he waits for his chance and rescues Patricia from Knight. Patricia is starting to think that Withers has a real romantic interest in her, and tells Francesca who in turn tells Nathaniel.

Saunders hangs back near the bow and sees a shadowy figure arrive at 10.15, wait for a minute then slip away. Saunders fails to follow him.

=== Wednesday January 10th 1930 ===

[[Image:Suez.jpg|right|200px|thumb|The Suez Canal]]

The day is spent travelling through the Suez Canal, a fascinating and unique maritime experience.

At lunch [[Henrietta Tullis]] mentions the traditional end of voyage show at which each table puts on a small act. [[Francesca Nicholson]] happily suggests a performance of part of 'Carcosa: or the Queen and the Stranger', but both [[Withers]] and [[Saunders]] veto this, citing emotional reasons around the death of their 'friend' [[Talbot Estus]]. Instead it is agree to put on a recitation of Gilbert and Sullivan songs.

That afternoon the traditional Port vs Starboard indoor cricket match takes place. All of the investigators take place, but it is [[Andrew Saunders]] who shines, very oddly for a Scot. Winning the match virtually single-handedly, Saunders is carried to the bar in triumph!

Returning to his stateroom, [[Browne]] is shocked to find that he has been burgled, [[The Turner Codex]] is gone. Browne accuses [[Julian Knight]] of involvement, citing his recent behaviour and the mysterious notes. Knight is questioned by the Chief Purser and instantly cracks under the slightest pressure, revealing his involvement with a mysterious Italian who offered to get [[Withers]] out of his way in return for all he could learn about the investigators' reasons for travel to India.

Knight also reveals that he was told that a note left for 'Aldones' at the telegraph office could be used to make contact.

It is decided to draft such a note suggesting a midnight meeting somewhere on the ship, and that whoever picks up the note should be identified or even followed if possible.

The note is so drafted, delivered and picked up. The man who picks up the note is identified as [[Umberto]] Zavaroni from stateroom 217.

That evening no dancing follows dinner. Knight stays well away from Patricia and the ladies retire to play cards to allow the men to carry out their business.

Saunders, Withers and a couple of burly crewmen head to the bow while the chief purser and Browne let themselves into the room opposite Zavaroni's and wait.

At 11.45 a man appears at the door to 217, knocks and speaks in Italian. Watching through the peephole, brown sees him draw a stilleto as the Zavaroni's door starts to open.

Browne bursts into the corridor shouting a warning, Zavaroni opens the door. The assassin strikes, glancing a blow off of his target's money-belt. Browne steps out, swings a fist and smashes the attacker's nose back into his face knocking him out cold. The stilleto falls to the ground. A Yellow Sign is embossed on its handle.

''At this point, [[Marcus Gustafsson]] starts to play [[Umberto]] to everyone else's surprise. It is not revealed that Knight was never his player character, but a mere piece of misdirection, and instead he will be playing Umberto.''

It is soon revealed that the inconscious assassin burgled Browne's cabin and that Umberto has long been a thorn in the side of [[the Brothers of the Yellow
Sign]]. He says that 'Zavaroni' is a fake name, but that they can call him 'Umberto'.

The other investigators arrive in time to hear Umberto's tale of following their footsteps for months after his investigation of the activities of the Brotherhood caused him to become aware of their group. A former Vatican investigator, he takes the threat of [[Hastur]] very seriously and hopes they can be allies.

Saunders, Withers and Browne look at each other, in their eyes the unasked question - 'Can we trust this man?'. Browne notices that Umberto wears the symbol of [[The Order of the Sword of St. Jerome]], the Vatican's (surely mythical?) occult investigation arm.

Session 12

2006-09-06T09:26:22Z

202.74.213.227: /* Wednesday January 10th 1930 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 4th September, 2006==

=== Monday December 31st 1929 ===

Wimbledon Cemetary, the funeral of Doctor Frederick [[Bartlett]]. In the face of some cold stares from Bartlett's family, the investigators retire to a nearby pub and make plans to travel to Nepal. It is decided to book passage on the next available ship, which will be '[[The Viceroy of India]]', a new P&O liner which leaves Southampton on Friday.

It is agreed that to avoid the crossing of the Bay of Biscay, never pleasant at this time of year, the investigators will travel by train to Marseilles and meet the boat there on Sunday.

=== Friday January 5th 1930 ===

The investigators leave England and head to France, taking a train south to the port of Marseilles, where they buy the gear they feel they need for the joirney - walking shoes, packs, alpine rations and survival gear.

=== Saturday January 6th 1930 ===

All 3 investigators experience disturbing dreams containing themes and imagery from the Hastur mythos. All feel the influence of [[the King in Yellow]] is growing.

=== Sunday January 7th 1930 ===

The investigators board [[The Viceroy of India]] for the 11 day voyage to [[Bombay]]. Over the next week and a half they will spend a lot of time with their dining companions on Table 8, who they meet that lunchtime (with the excpetion of Mr Thomas, who does not appear until dinner.

[[Julian Knight]] - a diplomat returning to India, who implies that he may be some kind of a spy and clearly has an eye for the ladies and a taste for brandy

The Reverend [[Ian Gore]] - a missionary with the British Bible Society, on his way to continue spreading the Word in the interior of India

Mrs [[Henrietta Tullis]] - the matronly wife of the Cultural attache in Bombay, returning from visiting her sick sister and very much the 'mother hen' of the group

[[Stephen Thomas]] - a pudgy, bespectacled man. A minor civil servant taking up a new post in India, Stephen always has his head in a book.

Miss [[Francesca Nicholson]] - a pretty, vivacious typist on her way to visit relatives and see the sub-continent. She knows [[Nathaniel Browne]]'s work and is happy to meet him.

Miss [[Patricia Berry]] - Francesca's quieter, less glamorous friend and travelling companion. from a monied background, she busies herself in voluntary work. Julian Knight immediately latches on to her.

''Note: At this point, Julian Knight is being played by [[Marcus Gustafsson]] and the other players think that Julian is his new character in the campaign.''

By dinner that evening, Francesca has attached herself to Browne as is hanging on his every word, while poor Patricia finds herself the object of Knight's attentions, something that is making her increasingly uncomfortable.

During dinner Saunders sees a swarthy looking man looking into the dining room and was sure he'd seen him before, but could not place him.

At the end of the meal, when it is time for the ship's orchestra to strike up, [[Withers]] notices Knight is ordering a drink and chivalrously sterps in, inviting Patricia to be his dance partner for the evening. Thus paired up, Withers and Browne go to the dancefloor, Knight to the bar and [[Andrew Saunders]] wanders off on his own for the evening.

Francesca returns to Nathaniel's stateroom where she discovers a copy of [[Talbot Estus]]'s play amongst Nathaniel's books. Remembering the dedication from '[[Tatters of the King]]' she asks if she can borrow it. Browne agrees.

Late that night, Withers hears Saunders return to his cabin. He wonders quite where his friend has been.

=== Monday January 8th 1930 ===

The ship steams on across the Mediterranean. A game of deck quoits takes place, and [[Henrietta Tullis]] presses the investigators into competing against the reverend [[Gore]]. Withers and Browne encounter [[Francesca Nicholson]] and [[Patricia Berry]] once more, and Patricia is impressed to see Withers win handily.

During the game, [[Saunders]] sees the swarthy stranger once more, but still cannot place him, or catch up with him.

[[Julian Knight]] arrives and tries once more to ingartiate himself with Patricia. while [[Browne]] continues to get on with Francesca like a house on fire.

By dinner, Saunders is constantly looking out for the stranger, and the others are starting to get a little worried about him. During the meal, Mrs Tullis and the Rev Gore box Knight in to stop him from bothering Patricia, and Withers finds hismelf once more spending time with young Miss Berry, whose reticence and shyness is slowly fading.

After dinner, as the orchestra strikes up, Withers notices Saunders sneaking off, so decides to follow him. Saunders passes into an area signposted as for 'Staff only'. Withers follows and runs into a lascar seaman. The lascar's raised voice alerts Saunders who emerges from a nearby door with an unreadable look upon his face. Withers sees the name "Head Steward Wilkins" on the door from which Saunders has emerged.

Saunders tells Withers that Wilkins is an old friend and refuses to say any more.

Back in the ballroom, Knight has managed to get Patricia to dance with him, unprotected by Francesca and Nathaniel who have gone for a walk together. When Knight goes for a drink, Withers rescues her and when Knight returns, Mrs Tullis asks him to dance. Knight drains his brandy glass and accepts his fate.

=== Tuesday January 9th 1930 ===

The ship steams into Port Said. Many passengers disembark to explore the ''souk'' and experience some exotic culture.

[[Browne]] spends his time ashore with [[Francesca Nicholson]]. It is obvious to everyone that romance is blossoming.

Back aboard, dinner that evening has an Egyptian theme. Over dinner, [[Julian Knight]] shows another side to his personality, taking a great interest in the investigators and their travels. Soon this becomes a suspicious amount of interest, as if he is trying to find out something specific. The investigators become suspicious.

In the middle of dinner a note is hand-delivered to [[Withers]]. The note requests a meeting at the ship's bow at 10 o'clock that evening, and is signed '[[Aldones]]'. Withers is to come alone.

At the end of dinner, to the great surprise of the investigators, Knight does not attempt to get Patricia to dance, but simply stands up and leaves. the investigators discuss the mysterious note and decide that Withers will go, but Saunders will follow and watch from the shadows.

At the bow, nobody turns up. Withers waits for only a few minutes, then convinced that this is a transparent plot of Knight's decides to return to the ballroom where, at about 5 to 10, Knight had turned up and immediately started to work once more on Patricia's affections.

Just as Withers starts to leave a lascar turns up with another note, requesting a 15 minute delay prior to the meeting. Withers does not buy this and hurried back to the ballroom where once more he waits for his chance and rescues Patricia from Knight. Patricia is starting to think that Withers has a real romantic interest in her, and tells Francesca who in turn tells Nathaniel.

Saunders hangs back near the bow and sees a shadowy figure arrive at 10.15, wait for a minute then slip away. Saunders fails to follow him.

=== Wednesday January 10th 1930 ===

[[Image:Suez.jpg]|right|200px|thumb|The Suez Canal]]

The day is spent travelling through the Suez Canal, a fascinating and unique maritime experience.

At lunch [[Henrietta Tullis]] mentions the traditional end of voyage show at which each table puts on a small act. [[Francesca Nicholson]] happily suggests a performance of part of 'Carcosa: or the Queen and the Stranger', but both [[Withers]] and [[Saunders]] veto this, citing emotional reasons around the death of their 'friend' [[Talbot Estus]]. Instead it is agree to put on a recitation of Gilbert and Sullivan songs.

That afternoon the traditional Port vs Starboard indoor cricket match takes place. All of the investigators take place, but it is [[Andrew Saunders]] who shines, very oddly for a Scot. Winning the match virtually single-handedly, Saunders is carried to the bar in triumph!

Returning to his stateroom, [[Browne]] is shocked to find that he has been burgled, [[The Turner Codex]] is gone. Browne accuses [[Julian Knight]] of involvement, citing his recent behaviour and the mysterious notes. Knight is questioned by the Chief Purser and instantly cracks under the slightest pressure, revealing his involvement with a mysterious Italian who offered to get [[Withers]] out of his way in return for all he could learn about the investigators' reasons for travel to India.

Knight also reveals that he was told that a note left for 'Aldones' at the telegraph office could be used to make contact.

It is decided to draft such a note suggesting a midnight meeting somewhere on the ship, and that whoever picks up the note should be identified or even followed if possible.

The note is so drafted, delivered and picked up. The man who picks up the note is identified as [[Umberto]] Zavaroni from stateroom 217.

That evening no dancing follows dinner. Knight stays well away from Patricia and the ladies retire to play cards to allow the men to carry out their business.

Saunders, Withers and a couple of burly crewmen head to the bow while the chief purser and Browne let themselves into the room opposite Zavaroni's and wait.

At 11.45 a man appears at the door to 217, knocks and speaks in Italian. Watching through the peephole, brown sees him draw a stilleto as the Zavaroni's door starts to open.

Browne bursts into the corridor shouting a warning, Zavaroni opens the door. The assassin strikes, glancing a blow off of his target's money-belt. Browne steps out, swings a fist and smashes the attacker's nose back into his face knocking him out cold. The stilleto falls to the ground. A Yellow Sign is embossed on its handle.

''At this point, [[Marcus Gustafsson]] starts to play [[Umberto]] to everyone else's surprise. It is not revealed that Knight was never his player character, but a mere piece of misdirection, and instead he will be playing Umberto.''

It is soon revealed that the inconscious assassin burgled Browne's cabin and that Umberto has long been a thorn in the side of [[the Brothers of the Yellow
Sign]]. He says that 'Zavaroni' is a fake name, but that they can call him 'Umberto'.

The other investigators arrive in time to hear Umberto's tale of following their footsteps for months after his investigation of the activities of the Brotherhood caused him to become aware of their group. A former Vatican investigator, he takes the threat of [[Hastur]] very seriously and hopes they can be allies.

Saunders, Withers and Browne look at each other, in their eyes the unasked question - 'Can we trust this man?'. Browne notices that Umberto wears the symbol of [[The Order of the Sword of St. Jerome]], the Vatican's (surely mythical?) occult investigation arm.

Session 12

2006-09-06T09:25:43Z

202.74.213.227: /* Wednesday January 10th 1930 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 4th September, 2006==

=== Monday December 31st 1929 ===

Wimbledon Cemetary, the funeral of Doctor Frederick [[Bartlett]]. In the face of some cold stares from Bartlett's family, the investigators retire to a nearby pub and make plans to travel to Nepal. It is decided to book passage on the next available ship, which will be '[[The Viceroy of India]]', a new P&O liner which leaves Southampton on Friday.

It is agreed that to avoid the crossing of the Bay of Biscay, never pleasant at this time of year, the investigators will travel by train to Marseilles and meet the boat there on Sunday.

=== Friday January 5th 1930 ===

The investigators leave England and head to France, taking a train south to the port of Marseilles, where they buy the gear they feel they need for the joirney - walking shoes, packs, alpine rations and survival gear.

=== Saturday January 6th 1930 ===

All 3 investigators experience disturbing dreams containing themes and imagery from the Hastur mythos. All feel the influence of [[the King in Yellow]] is growing.

=== Sunday January 7th 1930 ===

The investigators board [[The Viceroy of India]] for the 11 day voyage to [[Bombay]]. Over the next week and a half they will spend a lot of time with their dining companions on Table 8, who they meet that lunchtime (with the excpetion of Mr Thomas, who does not appear until dinner.

[[Julian Knight]] - a diplomat returning to India, who implies that he may be some kind of a spy and clearly has an eye for the ladies and a taste for brandy

The Reverend [[Ian Gore]] - a missionary with the British Bible Society, on his way to continue spreading the Word in the interior of India

Mrs [[Henrietta Tullis]] - the matronly wife of the Cultural attache in Bombay, returning from visiting her sick sister and very much the 'mother hen' of the group

[[Stephen Thomas]] - a pudgy, bespectacled man. A minor civil servant taking up a new post in India, Stephen always has his head in a book.

Miss [[Francesca Nicholson]] - a pretty, vivacious typist on her way to visit relatives and see the sub-continent. She knows [[Nathaniel Browne]]'s work and is happy to meet him.

Miss [[Patricia Berry]] - Francesca's quieter, less glamorous friend and travelling companion. from a monied background, she busies herself in voluntary work. Julian Knight immediately latches on to her.

''Note: At this point, Julian Knight is being played by [[Marcus Gustafsson]] and the other players think that Julian is his new character in the campaign.''

By dinner that evening, Francesca has attached herself to Browne as is hanging on his every word, while poor Patricia finds herself the object of Knight's attentions, something that is making her increasingly uncomfortable.

During dinner Saunders sees a swarthy looking man looking into the dining room and was sure he'd seen him before, but could not place him.

At the end of the meal, when it is time for the ship's orchestra to strike up, [[Withers]] notices Knight is ordering a drink and chivalrously sterps in, inviting Patricia to be his dance partner for the evening. Thus paired up, Withers and Browne go to the dancefloor, Knight to the bar and [[Andrew Saunders]] wanders off on his own for the evening.

Francesca returns to Nathaniel's stateroom where she discovers a copy of [[Talbot Estus]]'s play amongst Nathaniel's books. Remembering the dedication from '[[Tatters of the King]]' she asks if she can borrow it. Browne agrees.

Late that night, Withers hears Saunders return to his cabin. He wonders quite where his friend has been.

=== Monday January 8th 1930 ===

The ship steams on across the Mediterranean. A game of deck quoits takes place, and [[Henrietta Tullis]] presses the investigators into competing against the reverend [[Gore]]. Withers and Browne encounter [[Francesca Nicholson]] and [[Patricia Berry]] once more, and Patricia is impressed to see Withers win handily.

During the game, [[Saunders]] sees the swarthy stranger once more, but still cannot place him, or catch up with him.

[[Julian Knight]] arrives and tries once more to ingartiate himself with Patricia. while [[Browne]] continues to get on with Francesca like a house on fire.

By dinner, Saunders is constantly looking out for the stranger, and the others are starting to get a little worried about him. During the meal, Mrs Tullis and the Rev Gore box Knight in to stop him from bothering Patricia, and Withers finds hismelf once more spending time with young Miss Berry, whose reticence and shyness is slowly fading.

After dinner, as the orchestra strikes up, Withers notices Saunders sneaking off, so decides to follow him. Saunders passes into an area signposted as for 'Staff only'. Withers follows and runs into a lascar seaman. The lascar's raised voice alerts Saunders who emerges from a nearby door with an unreadable look upon his face. Withers sees the name "Head Steward Wilkins" on the door from which Saunders has emerged.

Saunders tells Withers that Wilkins is an old friend and refuses to say any more.

Back in the ballroom, Knight has managed to get Patricia to dance with him, unprotected by Francesca and Nathaniel who have gone for a walk together. When Knight goes for a drink, Withers rescues her and when Knight returns, Mrs Tullis asks him to dance. Knight drains his brandy glass and accepts his fate.

=== Tuesday January 9th 1930 ===

The ship steams into Port Said. Many passengers disembark to explore the ''souk'' and experience some exotic culture.

[[Browne]] spends his time ashore with [[Francesca Nicholson]]. It is obvious to everyone that romance is blossoming.

Back aboard, dinner that evening has an Egyptian theme. Over dinner, [[Julian Knight]] shows another side to his personality, taking a great interest in the investigators and their travels. Soon this becomes a suspicious amount of interest, as if he is trying to find out something specific. The investigators become suspicious.

In the middle of dinner a note is hand-delivered to [[Withers]]. The note requests a meeting at the ship's bow at 10 o'clock that evening, and is signed '[[Aldones]]'. Withers is to come alone.

At the end of dinner, to the great surprise of the investigators, Knight does not attempt to get Patricia to dance, but simply stands up and leaves. the investigators discuss the mysterious note and decide that Withers will go, but Saunders will follow and watch from the shadows.

At the bow, nobody turns up. Withers waits for only a few minutes, then convinced that this is a transparent plot of Knight's decides to return to the ballroom where, at about 5 to 10, Knight had turned up and immediately started to work once more on Patricia's affections.

Just as Withers starts to leave a lascar turns up with another note, requesting a 15 minute delay prior to the meeting. Withers does not buy this and hurried back to the ballroom where once more he waits for his chance and rescues Patricia from Knight. Patricia is starting to think that Withers has a real romantic interest in her, and tells Francesca who in turn tells Nathaniel.

Saunders hangs back near the bow and sees a shadowy figure arrive at 10.15, wait for a minute then slip away. Saunders fails to follow him.

=== Wednesday January 10th 1930 ===

[[Image:Suez.jpg]|right|200px|thumb|The Suez Canal]

The day is spent travelling through the Suez Canal, a fascinating and unique maritime experience.

At lunch [[Henrietta Tullis]] mentions the traditional end of voyage show at which each table puts on a small act. [[Francesca Nicholson]] happily suggests a performance of part of 'Carcosa: or the Queen and the Stranger', but both [[Withers]] and [[Saunders]] veto this, citing emotional reasons around the death of their 'friend' [[Talbot Estus]]. Instead it is agree to put on a recitation of Gilbert and Sullivan songs.

That afternoon the traditional Port vs Starboard indoor cricket match takes place. All of the investigators take place, but it is [[Andrew Saunders]] who shines, very oddly for a Scot. Winning the match virtually single-handedly, Saunders is carried to the bar in triumph!

Returning to his stateroom, [[Browne]] is shocked to find that he has been burgled, [[The Turner Codex]] is gone. Browne accuses [[Julian Knight]] of involvement, citing his recent behaviour and the mysterious notes. Knight is questioned by the Chief Purser and instantly cracks under the slightest pressure, revealing his involvement witha mysterious Italian who offered to get [[Withers]] out of his way in return for all he could learn about the investigators' reasons for travel to India.

Knight also reveals that he was told that a note left for 'Aldones' at the telegraph office could be used to make contact.

It is decided to draft such a note suggesting a midnight meeting somewhere on the ship, and that whoever picks up the note should be identified or even followed if possible.

The note is so drafted, delivered and picked up. The man who picks up the note is identified as [[Umberto]] Zavaroni from stateroom 217.

That evening no dancing follows dinner. Knight stays well away from Patricia and the ladies retire to play cards to allow the men to carry out their business.

Saunders, Withers and a couple of burly crewmen head to the bow while the chief purser and Browne let themselves into the room opposite Zavaroni's and wait.

At 11.45 a man appears at the door to 217, knocks and speaks in Italian. Watching through the peephole, brown sees him draw a stilleto as the Zavaroni's door starts to open.

Browne bursts into the corridor shouting a warning, Zavaroni opens the door. The assassin strikes, glancing a blow off of his target's money-belt. Browne steps out, swings a fist and smashes the attacker's nose back into his face knocking him out cold. The stilleto falls to the ground. A Yellow Sign is embossed on its handle.

''At this point, [[Marcus Gustafsson]] starts to play [[Umberto]] to everyone else's surprise. It is not revealed that Knight was never his player character, but a mere piece of misdirection, and instead he will be playing Umberto.''

It is soon revealed that the inconscious assassin burgled Browne's cabin and that Umberto has long been a thorn in the side of [[the Brothers of the Yellow
Sign]]. He says that 'Zavaroni' is a fake name, but that they can call him 'Umberto'.

The other investigators arrive in time to hear Umberto's tale of following their footsteps for months after his investigation of the activities of the Brotherhood caused him to become aware of their group. A former Vatican investigator, he takes the threat of [[Hastur]] very seriously and hopes they can be allies.

Saunders, Withers and Browne look at each other, in their eyes the unasked question - 'Can we trust this man?'. Browne notices that Umberto wears the symbol of [[The Order of the Sword of St. Jerome]], the Vatican's (surely mythical?) occult investigation arm.

Session 12

2006-09-06T09:21:04Z

202.74.213.227: /* Wednesday January 10th 1930 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 4th September, 2006==

=== Monday December 31st 1929 ===

Wimbledon Cemetary, the funeral of Doctor Frederick [[Bartlett]]. In the face of some cold stares from Bartlett's family, the investigators retire to a nearby pub and make plans to travel to Nepal. It is decided to book passage on the next available ship, which will be '[[The Viceroy of India]]', a new P&O liner which leaves Southampton on Friday.

It is agreed that to avoid the crossing of the Bay of Biscay, never pleasant at this time of year, the investigators will travel by train to Marseilles and meet the boat there on Sunday.

=== Friday January 5th 1930 ===

The investigators leave England and head to France, taking a train south to the port of Marseilles, where they buy the gear they feel they need for the joirney - walking shoes, packs, alpine rations and survival gear.

=== Saturday January 6th 1930 ===

All 3 investigators experience disturbing dreams containing themes and imagery from the Hastur mythos. All feel the influence of [[the King in Yellow]] is growing.

=== Sunday January 7th 1930 ===

The investigators board [[The Viceroy of India]] for the 11 day voyage to [[Bombay]]. Over the next week and a half they will spend a lot of time with their dining companions on Table 8, who they meet that lunchtime (with the excpetion of Mr Thomas, who does not appear until dinner.

[[Julian Knight]] - a diplomat returning to India, who implies that he may be some kind of a spy and clearly has an eye for the ladies and a taste for brandy

The Reverend [[Ian Gore]] - a missionary with the British Bible Society, on his way to continue spreading the Word in the interior of India

Mrs [[Henrietta Tullis]] - the matronly wife of the Cultural attache in Bombay, returning from visiting her sick sister and very much the 'mother hen' of the group

[[Stephen Thomas]] - a pudgy, bespectacled man. A minor civil servant taking up a new post in India, Stephen always has his head in a book.

Miss [[Francesca Nicholson]] - a pretty, vivacious typist on her way to visit relatives and see the sub-continent. She knows [[Nathaniel Browne]]'s work and is happy to meet him.

Miss [[Patricia Berry]] - Francesca's quieter, less glamorous friend and travelling companion. from a monied background, she busies herself in voluntary work. Julian Knight immediately latches on to her.

''Note: At this point, Julian Knight is being played by [[Marcus Gustafsson]] and the other players think that Julian is his new character in the campaign.''

By dinner that evening, Francesca has attached herself to Browne as is hanging on his every word, while poor Patricia finds herself the object of Knight's attentions, something that is making her increasingly uncomfortable.

During dinner Saunders sees a swarthy looking man looking into the dining room and was sure he'd seen him before, but could not place him.

At the end of the meal, when it is time for the ship's orchestra to strike up, [[Withers]] notices Knight is ordering a drink and chivalrously sterps in, inviting Patricia to be his dance partner for the evening. Thus paired up, Withers and Browne go to the dancefloor, Knight to the bar and [[Andrew Saunders]] wanders off on his own for the evening.

Francesca returns to Nathaniel's stateroom where she discovers a copy of [[Talbot Estus]]'s play amongst Nathaniel's books. Remembering the dedication from '[[Tatters of the King]]' she asks if she can borrow it. Browne agrees.

Late that night, Withers hears Saunders return to his cabin. He wonders quite where his friend has been.

=== Monday January 8th 1930 ===

The ship steams on across the Mediterranean. A game of deck quoits takes place, and [[Henrietta Tullis]] presses the investigators into competing against the reverend [[Gore]]. Withers and Browne encounter [[Francesca Nicholson]] and [[Patricia Berry]] once more, and Patricia is impressed to see Withers win handily.

During the game, [[Saunders]] sees the swarthy stranger once more, but still cannot place him, or catch up with him.

[[Julian Knight]] arrives and tries once more to ingartiate himself with Patricia. while [[Browne]] continues to get on with Francesca like a house on fire.

By dinner, Saunders is constantly looking out for the stranger, and the others are starting to get a little worried about him. During the meal, Mrs Tullis and the Rev Gore box Knight in to stop him from bothering Patricia, and Withers finds hismelf once more spending time with young Miss Berry, whose reticence and shyness is slowly fading.

After dinner, as the orchestra strikes up, Withers notices Saunders sneaking off, so decides to follow him. Saunders passes into an area signposted as for 'Staff only'. Withers follows and runs into a lascar seaman. The lascar's raised voice alerts Saunders who emerges from a nearby door with an unreadable look upon his face. Withers sees the name "Head Steward Wilkins" on the door from which Saunders has emerged.

Saunders tells Withers that Wilkins is an old friend and refuses to say any more.

Back in the ballroom, Knight has managed to get Patricia to dance with him, unprotected by Francesca and Nathaniel who have gone for a walk together. When Knight goes for a drink, Withers rescues her and when Knight returns, Mrs Tullis asks him to dance. Knight drains his brandy glass and accepts his fate.

=== Tuesday January 9th 1930 ===

The ship steams into Port Said. Many passengers disembark to explore the ''souk'' and experience some exotic culture.

[[Browne]] spends his time ashore with [[Francesca Nicholson]]. It is obvious to everyone that romance is blossoming.

Back aboard, dinner that evening has an Egyptian theme. Over dinner, [[Julian Knight]] shows another side to his personality, taking a great interest in the investigators and their travels. Soon this becomes a suspicious amount of interest, as if he is trying to find out something specific. The investigators become suspicious.

In the middle of dinner a note is hand-delivered to [[Withers]]. The note requests a meeting at the ship's bow at 10 o'clock that evening, and is signed '[[Aldones]]'. Withers is to come alone.

At the end of dinner, to the great surprise of the investigators, Knight does not attempt to get Patricia to dance, but simply stands up and leaves. the investigators discuss the mysterious note and decide that Withers will go, but Saunders will follow and watch from the shadows.

At the bow, nobody turns up. Withers waits for only a few minutes, then convinced that this is a transparent plot of Knight's decides to return to the ballroom where, at about 5 to 10, Knight had turned up and immediately started to work once more on Patricia's affections.

Just as Withers starts to leave a lascar turns up with another note, requesting a 15 minute delay prior to the meeting. Withers does not buy this and hurried back to the ballroom where once more he waits for his chance and rescues Patricia from Knight. Patricia is starting to think that Withers has a real romantic interest in her, and tells Francesca who in turn tells Nathaniel.

Saunders hangs back near the bow and sees a shadowy figure arrive at 10.15, wait for a minute then slip away. Saunders fails to follow him.

=== Wednesday January 10th 1930 ===

The day is spent travelling through the Suez Canal, a fascinating and unique maritime experience.

At lunch [[Henrietta Tullis]] mentions the traditional end of votage show at which each table puts on a small act. [[Francesca Nicholson]] happily suggests a performance of part of 'Carcosa: or the Queen and the Stranger', but both [[Withers]] and [[Saunders]] veto this, citing emotional reasons around the death of their 'friend' [[Talbot Estus]]. Instead it is agree to put on a recitation of Gilbert and Sullivan songs.

That afternoon the traditional Port vs Starboard indoor cricket match takes place. All of the investigators take place, but it is [[Andrew Saunders]] who shines, very oddly for a Scot. Winning the match virtually single-handedly, Saunders is carried to the bar in triumph!

Returning to his stateroom, [[Browne]] is shocked to find that he has been burgled, [[The Turner Codex]] is gone. Browne accuses [[Julian Knight]] of involvement, citing his recent behaviour and the mysterious notes. Knight is questioned by the Chief Purser and instantly cracks under the slightest pressure, revealing his involvement witha mysterious Italian who offered to get [[Withers]] out of his way in return for all he could learn about the investigators' reasons for travel to India.

Knight also reveals that he was told that a note left for 'Aldones' at the telegraph office could be used to make contact.

It is decided to draft such a note suggesting a midnight meeting somewhere on the ship, and that whoever picks up the note should be identified or even followed if possible.

The note is so drafted, delivered and picked up. The man who picks up the note is identified as [[Umberto]] Zavaroni from stateroom 217.

That evening no dancing follows dinner. Knight stays well away from Patricia and the ladies retire to play cards to allow the men to carry out their business.

Saunders, Withers and a couple of burly crewmen head to the bow while the chief purser and Browne let themselves into the room opposite Zavaroni's and wait.

At 11.45 a man appears at the door to 217, knocks and speaks in Italian. Watching through the peephole, brown sees him draw a stilleto as the Zavaroni's door starts to open.

Browne bursts into the corridor shouting a warning, Zavaroni opens the door. The assassin strikes, glancing a blow off of his target's money-belt. Browne steps out, swings a fist and smashes the attacker's nose back into his face knocking him out cold. The stilleto falls to the ground. A Yellow Sign is embossed on its handle.

''At this point, [[Marcus Gustafsson]] starts to play [[Umberto]] to everyone else's surprise. It is not revealed that Knight was never his player character, but a mere piece of misdirection, and instead he will be playing Umberto.''

It is soon revealed that the inconscious assassin burgled Browne's cabin and that Umberto has long been a thorn in the side of [[the Brothers of the Yellow
Sign]]. He says that 'Zavaroni' is a fake name, but that they can call him 'Umberto'.

The other investigators arrive in time to hear Umberto's tale of following their footsteps for months after his investigation of the activities of the Brotherhood caused him to become aware of their group. A former Vatican investigator, he takes the threat of [[Hastur]] very seriously and hopes they can be allies.

Saunders, Withers and Browne look at each other, in their eyes the unasked question - 'Can we trust this man?'. Browne notices that Umberto wears the symbol of [[The Order of the Sword of St. Jerome]], the Vatican's (surely mythical?) occult investigation arm.

Gore

2006-09-06T09:19:50Z

202.74.213.227:

#redirect [[Ian Gore]]

Session 13

2006-09-06T09:19:06Z

202.74.213.227: /* Thursday December 11th 1929 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 11th September, 2006==

=== Thursday December 11th 1929 ===

The ship docks for a couple of hours at the port of Suez to pick up and drop off mail, then starts down the Red Sea on the 2-day leg to the port of Aden.

In mid-morning, Withers receives a telegram. Though he does not immediately reveal its contents it clearly gives him pause.

Session 13

2006-09-06T09:18:06Z

202.74.213.227:

==Session Report - Played Monday 11th September, 2006==

=== Thursday December 11th 1929 ===

The ship docks for a couple of hours at the port of Suez to pick up and drop off mail, then starts across the Indian Ocean on its seven day voyage to Bombay.

In mid-morning, Withers receives a telegram. Though he does not immediately reveal its contents it clearly gives him pause.

Session 12

2006-09-06T09:13:38Z

202.74.213.227: /* Wednesday January 10th 1930 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 4th September, 2006==

=== Monday December 31st 1929 ===

Wimbledon Cemetary, the funeral of Doctor Frederick [[Bartlett]]. In the face of some cold stares from Bartlett's family, the investigators retire to a nearby pub and make plans to travel to Nepal. It is decided to book passage on the next available ship, which will be '[[The Viceroy of India]]', a new P&O liner which leaves Southampton on Friday.

It is agreed that to avoid the crossing of the Bay of Biscay, never pleasant at this time of year, the investigators will travel by train to Marseilles and meet the boat there on Sunday.

=== Friday January 5th 1930 ===

The investigators leave England and head to France, taking a train south to the port of Marseilles, where they buy the gear they feel they need for the joirney - walking shoes, packs, alpine rations and survival gear.

=== Saturday January 6th 1930 ===

All 3 investigators experience disturbing dreams containing themes and imagery from the Hastur mythos. All feel the influence of [[the King in Yellow]] is growing.

=== Sunday January 7th 1930 ===

The investigators board [[The Viceroy of India]] for the 11 day voyage to [[Bombay]]. Over the next week and a half they will spend a lot of time with their dining companions on Table 8, who they meet that lunchtime (with the excpetion of Mr Thomas, who does not appear until dinner.

[[Julian Knight]] - a diplomat returning to India, who implies that he may be some kind of a spy and clearly has an eye for the ladies and a taste for brandy

The Reverend [[Ian Gore]] - a missionary with the British Bible Society, on his way to continue spreading the Word in the interior of India

Mrs [[Henrietta Tullis]] - the matronly wife of the Cultural attache in Bombay, returning from visiting her sick sister and very much the 'mother hen' of the group

[[Stephen Thomas]] - a pudgy, bespectacled man. A minor civil servant taking up a new post in India, Stephen always has his head in a book.

Miss [[Francesca Nicholson]] - a pretty, vivacious typist on her way to visit relatives and see the sub-continent. She knows [[Nathaniel Browne]]'s work and is happy to meet him.

Miss [[Patricia Berry]] - Francesca's quieter, less glamorous friend and travelling companion. from a monied background, she busies herself in voluntary work. Julian Knight immediately latches on to her.

''Note: At this point, Julian Knight is being played by [[Marcus Gustafsson]] and the other players think that Julian is his new character in the campaign.''

By dinner that evening, Francesca has attached herself to Browne as is hanging on his every word, while poor Patricia finds herself the object of Knight's attentions, something that is making her increasingly uncomfortable.

During dinner Saunders sees a swarthy looking man looking into the dining room and was sure he'd seen him before, but could not place him.

At the end of the meal, when it is time for the ship's orchestra to strike up, [[Withers]] notices Knight is ordering a drink and chivalrously sterps in, inviting Patricia to be his dance partner for the evening. Thus paired up, Withers and Browne go to the dancefloor, Knight to the bar and [[Andrew Saunders]] wanders off on his own for the evening.

Francesca returns to Nathaniel's stateroom where she discovers a copy of [[Talbot Estus]]'s play amongst Nathaniel's books. Remembering the dedication from '[[Tatters of the King]]' she asks if she can borrow it. Browne agrees.

Late that night, Withers hears Saunders return to his cabin. He wonders quite where his friend has been.

=== Monday January 8th 1930 ===

The ship steams on across the Mediterranean. A game of deck quoits takes place, and [[Henrietta Tullis]] presses the investigators into competing against the reverend [[Gore]]. Withers and Browne encounter [[Francesca Nicholson]] and [[Patricia Berry]] once more, and Patricia is impressed to see Withers win handily.

During the game, [[Saunders]] sees the swarthy stranger once more, but still cannot place him, or catch up with him.

[[Julian Knight]] arrives and tries once more to ingartiate himself with Patricia. while [[Browne]] continues to get on with Francesca like a house on fire.

By dinner, Saunders is constantly looking out for the stranger, and the others are starting to get a little worried about him. During the meal, Mrs Tullis and the Rev Gore box Knight in to stop him from bothering Patricia, and Withers finds hismelf once more spending time with young Miss Berry, whose reticence and shyness is slowly fading.

After dinner, as the orchestra strikes up, Withers notices Saunders sneaking off, so decides to follow him. Saunders passes into an area signposted as for 'Staff only'. Withers follows and runs into a lascar seaman. The lascar's raised voice alerts Saunders who emerges from a nearby door with an unreadable look upon his face. Withers sees the name "Head Steward Wilkins" on the door from which Saunders has emerged.

Saunders tells Withers that Wilkins is an old friend and refuses to say any more.

Back in the ballroom, Knight has managed to get Patricia to dance with him, unprotected by Francesca and Nathaniel who have gone for a walk together. When Knight goes for a drink, Withers rescues her and when Knight returns, Mrs Tullis asks him to dance. Knight drains his brandy glass and accepts his fate.

=== Tuesday January 9th 1930 ===

The ship steams into Port Said. Many passengers disembark to explore the ''souk'' and experience some exotic culture.

[[Browne]] spends his time ashore with [[Francesca Nicholson]]. It is obvious to everyone that romance is blossoming.

Back aboard, dinner that evening has an Egyptian theme. Over dinner, [[Julian Knight]] shows another side to his personality, taking a great interest in the investigators and their travels. Soon this becomes a suspicious amount of interest, as if he is trying to find out something specific. The investigators become suspicious.

In the middle of dinner a note is hand-delivered to [[Withers]]. The note requests a meeting at the ship's bow at 10 o'clock that evening, and is signed '[[Aldones]]'. Withers is to come alone.

At the end of dinner, to the great surprise of the investigators, Knight does not attempt to get Patricia to dance, but simply stands up and leaves. the investigators discuss the mysterious note and decide that Withers will go, but Saunders will follow and watch from the shadows.

At the bow, nobody turns up. Withers waits for only a few minutes, then convinced that this is a transparent plot of Knight's decides to return to the ballroom where, at about 5 to 10, Knight had turned up and immediately started to work once more on Patricia's affections.

Just as Withers starts to leave a lascar turns up with another note, requesting a 15 minute delay prior to the meeting. Withers does not buy this and hurried back to the ballroom where once more he waits for his chance and rescues Patricia from Knight. Patricia is starting to think that Withers has a real romantic interest in her, and tells Francesca who in turn tells Nathaniel.

Saunders hangs back near the bow and sees a shadowy figure arrive at 10.15, wait for a minute then slip away. Saunders fails to follow him.

=== Wednesday January 10th 1930 ===

The day is spent travelling through the Suez Canal, a fascinating and unique maritime experience.

At lunch [[Henrietta Tullis]] mentions the traditional end of votage show at which each table puts on a small act. [[Francesca Nicholson]] happily suggests a performance of part of 'Carcosa: or the Queen and the Stranger', but both [[Withers]] and [[Saunders]] veto this, citing emotional reasons around the death of their 'friend' [[Talbot Estus]]. Instead it is agree to put on a recitation of Gilbert and Sullivan songs.

That afternoon the traditional Port vs Starboard indoor cricket match takes place. All of the investigators take place, but it is [[Andrew Saunders]] who shines, very oddly for a Scot. Winning the match virtually single-handedly, Saunders is carried to the bar in triumph!

Returning to his stateroom, Browne is shocked to find that he has been burgled, [[The Turner Codex]] is gone. Browne accuses [[Julian Knight]] of involvement, citing his recent behaviour and the mysterious notes. Knight is questioned by the Chief Purser and instantly cracks under the slightest pressure, revealing his involvement witha mysterious Italian who offered to get [[Withers]] out of his way in return for all he could learn about the investigators' reasons for travel to India.

Knight also reveals that he was told that a note left for 'Aldones' at the telegraph office could be used to make contact.

It is decided to draft such a note suggesting a midnight meeting somewhere on the ship, and that whoever picks up the note should be identified or even followed if possible.

The note is so drafted, delivered and picked up. The man who picks up the note is identified as [[Umberto]] Zavaroni from stateroom 217.

That evening no dancing follows dinner. Knight stays well away from Patricia and the ladies retire to play cards to allow the men to carry out their business.

Saunders, Withers and a couple of burly crewmen head to the bow while the chief purser and browne let themselves into the room opposite Zavaroni's and wait.

At 11.45 a man appears at the door to 217, knocks and speaks in Italian. Watching through the peephole, brown sees him draw a stilleto as the Zavaroni's door starts to open.

Browne bursts into the corridor shouting a warning, Zavaroni opens the door. The assassin strikes, glancing a blow off of his target's money-belt. Browne steps out, swings a fist and smashes the attacker's nose back into his face knocking him out cold. The stilleto falls to the ground. A Yellow Sign is embossed on its handle.

''At this point, [[Marcus Gustafsson]] starts to play [[Umberto]] to everyone else's surprise. It is not revealed that Knight was never his player character, but a mere piece of misdirection, and instead he will be playing Umberto.''

It is soon revealed that the inconscious assassin burgled Browne's cabin and that Umberto has long been a thorn in the side of [[the Brothers of the Yellow
Sign]]. He says that 'Zavaroni' is a fake name, but that they can call him 'Umberto'.

The other investigators arrive in time to hear Umberto's tale of following their footsteps for months after his investigation of the activities of the Brotherhood caused him to become aware of their group. A former Vatican investigator, he takes the threat of [[Hastur]] very seriously and hopes they can be allies.

Saunders, Withers and Browne look at each other, in their eyes the unasked question - 'Can we trust this man?'. Browne notices that Umberto wears the symbol of [[The Order of the Sword of St. Jerome]], the Vatican's (surely mythical?) occult investigation arm.

Session 12

2006-09-06T09:09:27Z

202.74.213.227: /* Wednesday January 10th 1930 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 4th September, 2006==

=== Monday December 31st 1929 ===

Wimbledon Cemetary, the funeral of Doctor Frederick [[Bartlett]]. In the face of some cold stares from Bartlett's family, the investigators retire to a nearby pub and make plans to travel to Nepal. It is decided to book passage on the next available ship, which will be '[[The Viceroy of India]]', a new P&O liner which leaves Southampton on Friday.

It is agreed that to avoid the crossing of the Bay of Biscay, never pleasant at this time of year, the investigators will travel by train to Marseilles and meet the boat there on Sunday.

=== Friday January 5th 1930 ===

The investigators leave England and head to France, taking a train south to the port of Marseilles, where they buy the gear they feel they need for the joirney - walking shoes, packs, alpine rations and survival gear.

=== Saturday January 6th 1930 ===

All 3 investigators experience disturbing dreams containing themes and imagery from the Hastur mythos. All feel the influence of [[the King in Yellow]] is growing.

=== Sunday January 7th 1930 ===

The investigators board [[The Viceroy of India]] for the 11 day voyage to [[Bombay]]. Over the next week and a half they will spend a lot of time with their dining companions on Table 8, who they meet that lunchtime (with the excpetion of Mr Thomas, who does not appear until dinner.

[[Julian Knight]] - a diplomat returning to India, who implies that he may be some kind of a spy and clearly has an eye for the ladies and a taste for brandy

The Reverend [[Ian Gore]] - a missionary with the British Bible Society, on his way to continue spreading the Word in the interior of India

Mrs [[Henrietta Tullis]] - the matronly wife of the Cultural attache in Bombay, returning from visiting her sick sister and very much the 'mother hen' of the group

[[Stephen Thomas]] - a pudgy, bespectacled man. A minor civil servant taking up a new post in India, Stephen always has his head in a book.

Miss [[Francesca Nicholson]] - a pretty, vivacious typist on her way to visit relatives and see the sub-continent. She knows [[Nathaniel Browne]]'s work and is happy to meet him.

Miss [[Patricia Berry]] - Francesca's quieter, less glamorous friend and travelling companion. from a monied background, she busies herself in voluntary work. Julian Knight immediately latches on to her.

''Note: At this point, Julian Knight is being played by [[Marcus Gustafsson]] and the other players think that Julian is his new character in the campaign.''

By dinner that evening, Francesca has attached herself to Browne as is hanging on his every word, while poor Patricia finds herself the object of Knight's attentions, something that is making her increasingly uncomfortable.

During dinner Saunders sees a swarthy looking man looking into the dining room and was sure he'd seen him before, but could not place him.

At the end of the meal, when it is time for the ship's orchestra to strike up, [[Withers]] notices Knight is ordering a drink and chivalrously sterps in, inviting Patricia to be his dance partner for the evening. Thus paired up, Withers and Browne go to the dancefloor, Knight to the bar and [[Andrew Saunders]] wanders off on his own for the evening.

Francesca returns to Nathaniel's stateroom where she discovers a copy of [[Talbot Estus]]'s play amongst Nathaniel's books. Remembering the dedication from '[[Tatters of the King]]' she asks if she can borrow it. Browne agrees.

Late that night, Withers hears Saunders return to his cabin. He wonders quite where his friend has been.

=== Monday January 8th 1930 ===

The ship steams on across the Mediterranean. A game of deck quoits takes place, and [[Henrietta Tullis]] presses the investigators into competing against the reverend [[Gore]]. Withers and Browne encounter [[Francesca Nicholson]] and [[Patricia Berry]] once more, and Patricia is impressed to see Withers win handily.

During the game, [[Saunders]] sees the swarthy stranger once more, but still cannot place him, or catch up with him.

[[Julian Knight]] arrives and tries once more to ingartiate himself with Patricia. while [[Browne]] continues to get on with Francesca like a house on fire.

By dinner, Saunders is constantly looking out for the stranger, and the others are starting to get a little worried about him. During the meal, Mrs Tullis and the Rev Gore box Knight in to stop him from bothering Patricia, and Withers finds hismelf once more spending time with young Miss Berry, whose reticence and shyness is slowly fading.

After dinner, as the orchestra strikes up, Withers notices Saunders sneaking off, so decides to follow him. Saunders passes into an area signposted as for 'Staff only'. Withers follows and runs into a lascar seaman. The lascar's raised voice alerts Saunders who emerges from a nearby door with an unreadable look upon his face. Withers sees the name "Head Steward Wilkins" on the door from which Saunders has emerged.

Saunders tells Withers that Wilkins is an old friend and refuses to say any more.

Back in the ballroom, Knight has managed to get Patricia to dance with him, unprotected by Francesca and Nathaniel who have gone for a walk together. When Knight goes for a drink, Withers rescues her and when Knight returns, Mrs Tullis asks him to dance. Knight drains his brandy glass and accepts his fate.

=== Tuesday January 9th 1930 ===

The ship steams into Port Said. Many passengers disembark to explore the ''souk'' and experience some exotic culture.

[[Browne]] spends his time ashore with [[Francesca Nicholson]]. It is obvious to everyone that romance is blossoming.

Back aboard, dinner that evening has an Egyptian theme. Over dinner, [[Julian Knight]] shows another side to his personality, taking a great interest in the investigators and their travels. Soon this becomes a suspicious amount of interest, as if he is trying to find out something specific. The investigators become suspicious.

In the middle of dinner a note is hand-delivered to [[Withers]]. The note requests a meeting at the ship's bow at 10 o'clock that evening, and is signed '[[Aldones]]'. Withers is to come alone.

At the end of dinner, to the great surprise of the investigators, Knight does not attempt to get Patricia to dance, but simply stands up and leaves. the investigators discuss the mysterious note and decide that Withers will go, but Saunders will follow and watch from the shadows.

At the bow, nobody turns up. Withers waits for only a few minutes, then convinced that this is a transparent plot of Knight's decides to return to the ballroom where, at about 5 to 10, Knight had turned up and immediately started to work once more on Patricia's affections.

Just as Withers starts to leave a lascar turns up with another note, requesting a 15 minute delay prior to the meeting. Withers does not buy this and hurried back to the ballroom where once more he waits for his chance and rescues Patricia from Knight. Patricia is starting to think that Withers has a real romantic interest in her, and tells Francesca who in turn tells Nathaniel.

Saunders hangs back near the bow and sees a shadowy figure arrive at 10.15, wait for a minute then slip away. Saunders fails to follow him.

=== Wednesday January 10th 1930 ===

The day is spent travelling through the Suez Canal, a fascinating and unique maritime experience.

At lunch [[Henrietta Tullis]] mentions the traditional end of votage show at which each table puts on a small act. [[Francesca Nicholson]] happily suggests a performance of part of 'Carcosa: or the Queen and the Stranger', but both [[Withers]] and [[Saunders]] veto this, citing emotional reasons around the death of their 'friend' [[Talbot Estus]]. Instead it is agree to put on a recitation of Gilbert and Sullivan songs.

That afternoon the traditional Port vs Starboard indoor cricket match takes place. All of the investigators take place, but it is [[Andrew Saunders]] who shines, very oddly for a Scot. Winning the match virtually single-handedly, Saunders is carried to the bar in triumph!

Returning to his stateroom, Browne is shocked to find that he has been burgled, [[The Turner Codex]] is gone. Browne accuses [[Julian Knight]] of involvement, citing his recent behaviour and the mysterious notes. Knight is questioned by the Chief Purser and instantly cracks under the slightest pressure, revealing his involvement witha mysterious Italian who offered to get [[Withers]] out of his way in return for all he could learn about the investigators' reasons for travel to India.

Knight also reveals that he was told that a note left for 'Aldones' at the telegraph office could be used to make contact.

It is decided to draft such a note suggesting a midnight meeting somewhere on the ship, and that whoever picks up the note should be identified or even followed if possible.

The note is so drafted, delivered and picked up. The man who picks up the note is identified as [[Umberto]] Zavaroni from stateroom 217.

That evening no dancing follows dinner. Knight stays well away from Patricia and the ladies retire to play cards to allow the men to carry out their business.

Saunders, Withers and a couple of burly crewmen head to the bow while the chief purser and browne let themselves into the room opposite Zavaroni's and wait.

At 11.45 a man appears at the door to 217, knocks and speaks in Italian. Watching through the peephole, brown sees him draw a stilleto as the Zavaroni's door starts to open.

Browne bursts into the corridor shouting a warning, Zavaroni opens the door. The assassin strikes, glancing a blow off of his target's money-belt. Browne steps out, swings a fist and smashes the attacker's nose back into his face knocking him out cold. The stilleto falls to the ground. A Yellow Sign is embossed on its handle.

''At this point, [[Marcus Gustafsson]] starts to play [[Umberto]] to everyone else's surprise. It is not revealed that Knight was never his player character, but a mere piece of misdirection, and instead he will be playing Umberto.''

It is soon revealed that the inconscious assassin burgled Browne's cabin and that Umberto has long been a thorn in the side of [[the Brothers of the Yellow
Sign]]. He says that 'Zavaroni' is a fake name, but that they can call him 'Umberto'.

The other investigators arrive in time to hear Umberto's tale of following their footsteps for months after his investigation of the activities of the Brotherhood caused him to become aware of their group. A former Vatican investigator, he takes the threat of [[Hastur]] very seriously and hopes they can be allies.

Saunders, Withers and Browne look at each other, in their eyes the unasked question - 'Can we trust this man?'

Session 12

2006-09-06T09:04:40Z

202.74.213.227: /* Tuesday January 9th 1930 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 4th September, 2006==

=== Monday December 31st 1929 ===

Wimbledon Cemetary, the funeral of Doctor Frederick [[Bartlett]]. In the face of some cold stares from Bartlett's family, the investigators retire to a nearby pub and make plans to travel to Nepal. It is decided to book passage on the next available ship, which will be '[[The Viceroy of India]]', a new P&O liner which leaves Southampton on Friday.

It is agreed that to avoid the crossing of the Bay of Biscay, never pleasant at this time of year, the investigators will travel by train to Marseilles and meet the boat there on Sunday.

=== Friday January 5th 1930 ===

The investigators leave England and head to France, taking a train south to the port of Marseilles, where they buy the gear they feel they need for the joirney - walking shoes, packs, alpine rations and survival gear.

=== Saturday January 6th 1930 ===

All 3 investigators experience disturbing dreams containing themes and imagery from the Hastur mythos. All feel the influence of [[the King in Yellow]] is growing.

=== Sunday January 7th 1930 ===

The investigators board [[The Viceroy of India]] for the 11 day voyage to [[Bombay]]. Over the next week and a half they will spend a lot of time with their dining companions on Table 8, who they meet that lunchtime (with the excpetion of Mr Thomas, who does not appear until dinner.

[[Julian Knight]] - a diplomat returning to India, who implies that he may be some kind of a spy and clearly has an eye for the ladies and a taste for brandy

The Reverend [[Ian Gore]] - a missionary with the British Bible Society, on his way to continue spreading the Word in the interior of India

Mrs [[Henrietta Tullis]] - the matronly wife of the Cultural attache in Bombay, returning from visiting her sick sister and very much the 'mother hen' of the group

[[Stephen Thomas]] - a pudgy, bespectacled man. A minor civil servant taking up a new post in India, Stephen always has his head in a book.

Miss [[Francesca Nicholson]] - a pretty, vivacious typist on her way to visit relatives and see the sub-continent. She knows [[Nathaniel Browne]]'s work and is happy to meet him.

Miss [[Patricia Berry]] - Francesca's quieter, less glamorous friend and travelling companion. from a monied background, she busies herself in voluntary work. Julian Knight immediately latches on to her.

''Note: At this point, Julian Knight is being played by [[Marcus Gustafsson]] and the other players think that Julian is his new character in the campaign.''

By dinner that evening, Francesca has attached herself to Browne as is hanging on his every word, while poor Patricia finds herself the object of Knight's attentions, something that is making her increasingly uncomfortable.

During dinner Saunders sees a swarthy looking man looking into the dining room and was sure he'd seen him before, but could not place him.

At the end of the meal, when it is time for the ship's orchestra to strike up, [[Withers]] notices Knight is ordering a drink and chivalrously sterps in, inviting Patricia to be his dance partner for the evening. Thus paired up, Withers and Browne go to the dancefloor, Knight to the bar and [[Andrew Saunders]] wanders off on his own for the evening.

Francesca returns to Nathaniel's stateroom where she discovers a copy of [[Talbot Estus]]'s play amongst Nathaniel's books. Remembering the dedication from '[[Tatters of the King]]' she asks if she can borrow it. Browne agrees.

Late that night, Withers hears Saunders return to his cabin. He wonders quite where his friend has been.

=== Monday January 8th 1930 ===

The ship steams on across the Mediterranean. A game of deck quoits takes place, and [[Henrietta Tullis]] presses the investigators into competing against the reverend [[Gore]]. Withers and Browne encounter [[Francesca Nicholson]] and [[Patricia Berry]] once more, and Patricia is impressed to see Withers win handily.

During the game, [[Saunders]] sees the swarthy stranger once more, but still cannot place him, or catch up with him.

[[Julian Knight]] arrives and tries once more to ingartiate himself with Patricia. while [[Browne]] continues to get on with Francesca like a house on fire.

By dinner, Saunders is constantly looking out for the stranger, and the others are starting to get a little worried about him. During the meal, Mrs Tullis and the Rev Gore box Knight in to stop him from bothering Patricia, and Withers finds hismelf once more spending time with young Miss Berry, whose reticence and shyness is slowly fading.

After dinner, as the orchestra strikes up, Withers notices Saunders sneaking off, so decides to follow him. Saunders passes into an area signposted as for 'Staff only'. Withers follows and runs into a lascar seaman. The lascar's raised voice alerts Saunders who emerges from a nearby door with an unreadable look upon his face. Withers sees the name "Head Steward Wilkins" on the door from which Saunders has emerged.

Saunders tells Withers that Wilkins is an old friend and refuses to say any more.

Back in the ballroom, Knight has managed to get Patricia to dance with him, unprotected by Francesca and Nathaniel who have gone for a walk together. When Knight goes for a drink, Withers rescues her and when Knight returns, Mrs Tullis asks him to dance. Knight drains his brandy glass and accepts his fate.

=== Tuesday January 9th 1930 ===

The ship steams into Port Said. Many passengers disembark to explore the ''souk'' and experience some exotic culture.

[[Browne]] spends his time ashore with [[Francesca Nicholson]]. It is obvious to everyone that romance is blossoming.

Back aboard, dinner that evening has an Egyptian theme. Over dinner, [[Julian Knight]] shows another side to his personality, taking a great interest in the investigators and their travels. Soon this becomes a suspicious amount of interest, as if he is trying to find out something specific. The investigators become suspicious.

In the middle of dinner a note is hand-delivered to [[Withers]]. The note requests a meeting at the ship's bow at 10 o'clock that evening, and is signed '[[Aldones]]'. Withers is to come alone.

At the end of dinner, to the great surprise of the investigators, Knight does not attempt to get Patricia to dance, but simply stands up and leaves. the investigators discuss the mysterious note and decide that Withers will go, but Saunders will follow and watch from the shadows.

At the bow, nobody turns up. Withers waits for only a few minutes, then convinced that this is a transparent plot of Knight's decides to return to the ballroom where, at about 5 to 10, Knight had turned up and immediately started to work once more on Patricia's affections.

Just as Withers starts to leave a lascar turns up with another note, requesting a 15 minute delay prior to the meeting. Withers does not buy this and hurried back to the ballroom where once more he waits for his chance and rescues Patricia from Knight. Patricia is starting to think that Withers has a real romantic interest in her, and tells Francesca who in turn tells Nathaniel.

Saunders hangs back near the bow and sees a shadowy figure arrive at 10.15, wait for a minute then slip away. Saunders fails to follow him.

=== Wednesday January 10th 1930 ===

The day is spent travelling through the Suez Canal, a fascinating and unique maritime experience.

At lunch [[Henrietta Tullis]] mentions the traditional end of votage show at which each table puts on a small act. [[Francesca Nicholson]] happily suggests a performance of part of 'Carcosa: or the Queen and the Stranger', but both [[Withers]] and [[Saunders]] veto this, citing emotional reasons around the death of their 'friend' [[Talbot Estus]]. Instead it is agree to put on a recitation of Gilbert and Sullivan songs.

That afternoon the traditional Port vs Starboard indoor cricket match takes place. All of the investigators take place, but it is [[Andrew Saunders]] who shines, very oddly for a Scot. Winning the match virtually single-handedly, Saunders is carried to the bar in triumph!

Returning to his stateroom, Browne is shocked to find that he has been burgled, [[The Turner Codex]] is gone. Browne accuses [[Julian Knight]] of involvement, citing his recent behaviour and the mysterious notes. Knight is questioned by the Chief Purser and instantly cracks under the slightest pressure, revealing his involvement witha mysterious Italian who offered to get [[Withers]] out of his way in return for all he could learn about the investigators' reasons for travel to India.

Knight also reveals that he was told that a note left for 'Aldones' at the telegraph office could be used to make contact.

It is decided to draft such a note suggesting a midnight meeting somewhere on the ship, and that whoever picks up the note should be identified or even followed if possible.

The note is so drafted, delivered and picked up. The man who picks up the note is identified as [[Umberto]] Zavaroni from stateroom 217.

That evening no dancing follows dinner. Knight stays well away from Patricia and the ladies retire to play cards to allow the men to carry out their business.

Saunders, Withers and a couple of burly crewmen head to the bow while the chief purser and browne let themselves into the room opposite Zavaroni's and wait.

At 11.45 a man appears at the door to 217, knocks and speaks in Italian. Watching through the peephole, brown sees him draw a stilleto as the Zavaroni's door starts to open.

Browne bursts into the corridor shouting a warning, Zavaroni opens the door. The assassin strikes, glancing a blow off of his target's money-belt. Browne steps out, swings a fist and smashes the attacker's nose back into his face knocking him out cold. The stilleto falls to the ground. A Yellow Sign is embossed on its handle.

''At this point, [[Marcus Gustafsson]] starts to play [[Umberto]] to everyone else's surprise. It is not revealed that Knight was never his player character, but a mere piece of misdirection, and instead he will be playing Umberto.''

Session 12

2006-09-06T08:28:47Z

202.74.213.227: /* Monday January 8th 1930 */

Session 12

2006-09-06T08:28:26Z

202.74.213.227: /* Monday January 8th 1930 */

Session 12

2006-09-06T08:13:13Z

202.74.213.227: /* Sunday January 7th 1930 */

Session 11

2006-08-29T01:08:04Z

202.74.213.125: /* Thursday December 19th 1929 */

=== Monday December 16th 1929 ===

The investigators meet this evening at Dr. [[Bartlett]]'s house to discuss events in the Severn Valley and what should be done with the information gathered there. [[Saunders]] has arrived back in England that very morning.

the decision is made to visit Milan as quickly as possible in order to be back in London by Christmas.

=== Tuesday December 17th 1929 ===

Tickets and guidebooks are purchased, excuses are made to spouses, bags are packed.

=== Wednesday December 18th 1929 ===

The 8.30am boat-train is caught, via Dover, arriving in Paris in late afternoon. With 4 hours to kill before the sleeper rain leaves for Milan, the investigators walk by the Seine and dine at a pleasant bistro in the shadow of Notre-Dame. The sleeper train leaves for Milan.

=== Thursday December 19th 1929 ===

The investigators arrive in [[Milan]] at 7.30am and book into the Hotel des Anglais. The desk clerk arranges an interpreter/guide, and young [[Paolo Tuminardo]] - well-dressed, polite and a fervent member of the Fascist party is introduced.

The investigators tell him they need a guide for the tourist sites later, but for now they need an interpreter to help them with some urgent business. They ask for his aid in finding the shipping office of [[Giuseppe Colombo]] in Milan's ''navigli'' region and he leads them to a cab and thence into the winding streets of Southern Milan's canal district.

Asking for directions at a small cafe, Tuminardo locates Colombo's office and leads the way inside.

In the office a strange pair of companions sit at a desk above which hangs a version of Da Vinci's "Last Supper" painted from the rear. The two men in the office are wizened, balg old man with a milky eye and a sour expression and a somewhat effete looking young man with a startlingly sharp nose and long hair.

Tuminardo explains that his friends are looking for [[Malcom Quarrie]] or [[Thomas Villiers]], at which point the young man stands and introduces himself in a refined English accent as Villiers.

The old man sits silently, scowling. "Don't mind Signor Colombo." says Villiers.

The investigators ask about Quarrie, at which point Villiers happily responds "The official story is that they have gone to Tibet, but in reality they are on a Pilgrimage..."

Colombo explodes into angry, rapid Italian invective. Obviouslyher understands enough English to realise what Villers is discussing. The old man shouts at Villers, telling him that he should not tell these starngers such things and that the [[King in Yellow]] will crush the likes of them.

Villiers suggests to the investigators that they accompany him to his studio, he has no idea whats got into Giuseppe, but clearly they have outstayed their welcomes. On the way tp his studio, a few doors from Colombo's, Villiers explains that he knw Quarrie in London and came to Italy with him when they both broke with their former friends in England.

The investigators dismiss Paolo and tell him to meet them outside later, then enter Villiers' cramped studio. they are surrounded by dark abstract paintings and blank canvasses. Villiers goes to get a bottle of grappa and some glasses and returns to explain the philosopy of [[The Brothers of the Yellow Sign]] and the purpose of [[Malcolm Quarrie]]'s Pilgrimage.

He tells how they believe the Christian Trinity is a distorted version of the true Trinity of Hastur and that Quarrie, along with the university professor [[Roberto Anzalone]] have gone in search of their god. At about this time [[Browne]] notices a page of notes pinned to a blank canvas. Several phrases leap out at him - '[[Springer Mound]]', '[[The King in Yellow]]', '[[Nepal]]' and '[[Drakmar]]'. It seems to be notes for a planned tryptich showing the Trinity of hastur. Browne pockets the paper.

Just as Villers is about to explain the Pilgrimage in detail he suddenly stops talking. A strange look comes across his face as if he's suddenly realised that he's telling private business to stangers. He says 'I just need to get something' and makes for the door.

Before anyone can react, the artist opens the door and cries out "Angel! I bound you and I release you!". He steps out, slams the door shut behind him and a heavy thump comes from the roof.

The investigators look up just as the skylight implodes and a[[byakhee]] crashes down to the floor, almost on top of [[Bartlett]]. Bartlett barely has time to register surprise as the creature tears his stomach open with a single grab of its great claws, spraying gore across the room.

Browne dives for the window, Saunders grabs an easel and Withers picks up a nearby poker and lays into the monstet, cracking a perfect blow against its snout, breaking bone and crushing flesh. the byakhee shrieks and with a thundrous flapping of wings flies staight up and out into the night sky.

Outside, Browne gives chase to Villiers, catching him, landing an ineffective blow and then receiving a well-aimed kick to his bad ankle that leaves him writhing as Villiers flees into the night.

Back in the studio, the others try to aid Bartlett, but he is already dead.

Session 11

2006-08-29T01:07:30Z

202.74.213.125: /* Thursday December 19th 1929 */

=== Monday December 16th 1929 ===

The investigators meet this evening at Dr. [[Bartlett]]'s house to discuss events in the Severn Valley and what should be done with the information gathered there. [[Saunders]] has arrived back in England that very morning.

the decision is made to visit Milan as quickly as possible in order to be back in London by Christmas.

=== Tuesday December 17th 1929 ===

Tickets and guidebooks are purchased, excuses are made to spouses, bags are packed.

=== Wednesday December 18th 1929 ===

The 8.30am boat-train is caught, via Dover, arriving in Paris in late afternoon. With 4 hours to kill before the sleeper rain leaves for Milan, the investigators walk by the Seine and dine at a pleasant bistro in the shadow of Notre-Dame. The sleeper train leaves for Milan.

=== Thursday December 19th 1929 ===

The investigators arrive in [[Milan]] at 7.30am and book into the Hotel des Anglais. The desk clerk arranges an interpreter/guide, and young [[Paolo Tuminardo]] - well-dressed, polite and a fervent member of the Fascist party is introduced.

The investigators tell him they need a guide for the tourist sites later, but for now they need an interpreter to help them with some urgent business. They ask for his aid in finding the shipping office of [[Giuseppe Colombo]] in Milan's ''navigli'' region and he leads them to a cab and thence into the winding streets of Southern Milan's canal district.

Asking for directions at a small cafe, Tuminardo locates Colombo's office and leads the way inside.

In the office a strange pair of companions sit at a desk above which hangs a version of Da Vinci's "Last Supper" painted from the rear. The two men in the office are wizened, balg old man with a milky eye and a sour expression and a somewhat effete looking young man with a startlingly sharp nose and long hair.

Tuminardo explains that his friends are looking for [[Malcom Quarrie]] or [[Thomas Villiers]], at which point the young man stands and introduces himself in a refined English accent as Villiers.

The old man sits silently, scowling. "Don't mind Signor Colombo." says Villiers.

The investigators ask about Quarrie, at which point Villiers happily responds "The official story is that they have gone to Tibet, but in reality they are on a Pilgrimage..."

Colombo explodes into angry, rapid Italian invective. Obviouslyher understands enough English to realise what Villers is discussing. The old man shouts at Villers, telling him that he should not tell these starngers such things and that the [[King in Yellow]] will crush the likes of them.

Villiers suggests to the investigators that they accompany him to his studio, he has no idea whats got into Giuseppe, but clearly they have outstayed their welcomes. On the way tp his studio, a few doors from Colombo's, Villiers explains that he knw Quarrie in London and came to Italy with him when they both broke with their former friends in England.

The investigators dismiss Paolo and tell him to meet them outside later, then enter Villiers' cramped studio. they are surrounded by dark abstract paintings and blank canvasses. Villiers goes to get a bottle of grappa and some glasses and returns to explain the philosopy of [[The Brothers of the Yellow Sign]] and the purpose of [[Malcolm Quarrie]]'s Pilgrimage.

He tells how they believe the Christian Trinity is a distorted version of the true Trinity of Hastur and that Quarrie, along with the university professor [[Roberto Anzalone]] have gone in search of their god. At about this time [[Browne]] notices a page of notes pinned to a blank canvas. Several phrases leap out at him - '[[Springer Mound]]', '[[The King in Yellow]]', '[[Nepal]]' and '[[Drakmar]]'. It seems to be notes for a planned tryptich showing the Trinity of hastur. Browne pockets the paper.

Just as Villers is about to explain the Pilgrimage in detail he suddenly stops talking. A strange look comes across his face as if he's suddenly realised that he's telling private business to stangers. He says 'I just need to get something' and makes for the door.

Before anyone can react, the artist opens the door and cries out "Angel! I bound you and I release you!". He steps out, slams the door shut behind him and a heavy thump comes from the roof.

The investigators look up just as the skylight implodes and a[[byakhee]] crashes down to the floor, almost on top of [[Bartlett]]. Bartlett barely has time to register surprise as the creature tears his stomach open with a single grab of its great claws, spraying gore across the room.

Browne dives for the window, Saunders grabs an easel and Withers picks up a nearby poker and lays into the monstet, cracking a perfect blow against its snout, breaking bone and crusing flesh. the byakhee shrieks and with a thundrous flapping of wings flies staight up and out into the night sky.

Outside, Browne gives chase to Villiers, catching him, landing and ineffective blow and then receiving a well-simed kick to his bad ankle that leaves him writhing as Villiers flees into the night.

Back in the studio, the others try to aid Bartlett, but he is already dead.

Session 11

2006-08-29T01:06:59Z

202.74.213.125: /* Thursday December 19th 1929 */

=== Monday December 16th 1929 ===

The investigators meet this evening at Dr. [[Bartlett]]'s house to discuss events in the Severn Valley and what should be done with the information gathered there. [[Saunders]] has arrived back in England that very morning.

the decision is made to visit Milan as quickly as possible in order to be back in London by Christmas.

=== Tuesday December 17th 1929 ===

Tickets and guidebooks are purchased, excuses are made to spouses, bags are packed.

=== Wednesday December 18th 1929 ===

The 8.30am boat-train is caught, via Dover, arriving in Paris in late afternoon. With 4 hours to kill before the sleeper rain leaves for Milan, the investigators walk by the Seine and dine at a pleasant bistro in the shadow of Notre-Dame. The sleeper train leaves for Milan.

=== Thursday December 19th 1929 ===

The investigators arrive in [[Milan]] at 7.30am and book into the Hotel des Anglais. The desk clerk arranges an interpreter/guide, and young [[Paolo Tuminardo]] - well-dressed, polite and a fervent member of the Fascist party is introduced.

The investigators tell him they need a guide for the tourist sites later, but for now they need an interpreter to help them with some urgent business. They ask for his aid in finding the shipping office of [[Giuseppe Colombo]] in Milan's ''navigli'' region and he leads them to a cab and thence into the winding streets of Southern Milan's canal district.

Asking for directions at a small cafe, Tuminardo locates Colombo's office and leads the way inside.

In the office a strange pair of companions sit at a desk above which hangs a version of Da Vinci's "Last Supper" painted from the rear. The two men in the office are wizened, balg old man with a milky eye and a sour expression and a somewhat effete looking young man with a startlingly sharp nose and long hair.

Tuminardo explains that his friends are looking for [[Malcom Quarrie]] or [[Thomas Villiers]], at which point the young man stands and introduces himself in a refined English accent as Villiers.

The old man sits silently, scowling. "Don't mind Signor Colombo." says Villiers.

The investigators ask about Quarrie, at which point Villiers happily responds "The official story is that they have gone to Tibet, but in reality they are on a Pilgrimage..."

Colombo explodes into angry, rapid Italian invective. Obviouslyher understands enough English to realise what Villers is discussing. The old man shouts at Villers, telling him that he should not tell these starngers such things and that the [[King in Yellow]] will crush the likes of them.

Villiers suggests to the investigators that they accompany him to his studio, he has no idea whats got into Giuseppe, but clearly they have outstayed their welcomes. On the way tp his studio, a few doors from Colombo's, Villiers explains that he knw Quarrie in London and came to Italy with him when they both broke with their former friends in England.

The investigators dismiss Paolo and tell him to meet them outside later, then enter Villiers' cramped studio. they are surrounded by dark abstract paintings and blank canvasses. Villiers goes to get a bottle of grappa and some glasses and returns to explain the philosopy of [[The Brothers of the Yellow Sign]] and the purpose of [[Malcolm Quarrie]]'s Pilgrimage.

He tells how they believe the Christian Trinity is a distorted version of the true Trinity of Hastur and that Quarrie, along with the university professor [[Roberto Anzalone]] have gone in search of their god. At about this time [[Browne]] notices a page of notes pinned to a blank canvas. Several phrases leap out at him - '[[Springer Mound]]', '[[The King in Yellow]]', '[[Nepal]]' and '[[Drakmar]]'. It seems to be notes for a planned tryptich showing the Trinity of hastur. Browne pockets the paper.

Just as Villers is about to explain the Pilgrimage in detail he suddenly stops talking. A strange look comes across his face as if he's suddenly realised that he's telling private business to stangers. He says 'I just need to get something' and makes for the door.

Before anyone can react, the artist opens the door and cries out "Angel! I bound you and I release you!". He steps out, slams the door shut behind him and a heavy thump comes from the roof.

The investigators look up just as the skylight implodes and a[[byakhee]] crashes down to the floor, almost on top of [[Bartlett]]. Bartlett barely has time to register surprise as the creature tears his stomach open with a single grab of its great claws, spraying gore across the room.

Browne dives for the window, Saunders grabs an easel and Withers picks up a nearby pokert and lays into the monstet, cracking a perfect blow against its snout, breaking bone and crusing flesh. the byakhee shrieks and with a thundrous flapping of wings flies staight up and out into the night sky.

Outside, Browne gives chase to Villiers, catching him, landing and ineffective blow and then receiving a well-simed kick to his bad ankle that leaves him writhing as Villiers flees into the night.

Back in the studio, the others try to aid Bartlett, but he is already dead.

Session 11

2006-08-29T01:06:22Z

202.74.213.125: /* Monday December 16th 1929 */

=== Monday December 16th 1929 ===

The investigators meet this evening at Dr. [[Bartlett]]'s house to discuss events in the Severn Valley and what should be done with the information gathered there. [[Saunders]] has arrived back in England that very morning.

the decision is made to visit Milan as quickly as possible in order to be back in London by Christmas.

=== Tuesday December 17th 1929 ===

Tickets and guidebooks are purchased, excuses are made to spouses, bags are packed.

=== Wednesday December 18th 1929 ===

The 8.30am boat-train is caught, via Dover, arriving in Paris in late afternoon. With 4 hours to kill before the sleeper rain leaves for Milan, the investigators walk by the Seine and dine at a pleasant bistro in the shadow of Notre-Dame. The sleeper train leaves for Milan.

=== Thursday December 19th 1929 ===

The investigators arrive in [[Milan]] at 7.30am and book into the Hotel des Anglais. The desk clerk arranges an interpreter/guide, and young [[Paolo Tuminardo]] - well-dressed, polite and a fervent member of the Fascist party is introduced.

The investigators tell him they need a guide for the tourist sites later, but for now they need an interpreter to help them with some urgent business. They ask for his aid in finding the shipping office of [[Giuseppe Colombo]] in Milan's ''navigli'' region and he leads them to a cab and thence into the winding streets of Southern Milan's canal district.

Asking for directions at a small cafe, Tuminardo locates Colombo's office and leads the way inside.

In the office a strange pair of companions sit at a desk above which hangs a version of Da Vinci's "Last Supper" painted from the rear. The two men in the office are wizened, balg old man with a milky eye and a sour expression and a somewhat effete looking young man with a startlingly sharp nose and long hair.

Tuminardo explains that his friends are looking for [[Malcom Quarrie]] or [[Thomas Villiers]], at which point the young man stands and introduces himself in a refined English accent as Villiers.

The old man sits silently, scowling. "Don't mind Signor Colombo." says Villiers.

The investigators ask about Quarrie, at which point Villiers happily responds "The official stopry is that they have gone to Tibet, but in reality they are on a Pilgrimage..."

Colombo explodes into angry, rapid Italian invective. Obviouslyher understands enough English to realise what Villers is discussing. The old man shouts at Villers, telling him that he should not tell these starngers such things and that the [[King in Yellow]] will crush the likes of them.

Villiers suggests to the investigators that they accompany him to his studio, he has no idea whats got into Giuseppe, but clearly they have outstayed their welcomes. On the way tp his studio, a few doors from Colombo's, Villiers explains that he knw Quarrie in London and came to Italy with him when they both broke with their former friends in England.

The investigators dismiss Paolo and tell him to meet them outside later, then enter Villiers' cramped studio. they are surrounded by dark abstract paintings and blank canvasses. Villiers goes to get a bottle of grappa and some glasses and returns to explain the philosopy of [[The Brothers of the Yellow Sign]] and the purpose of [[Malcolm Quarrie]]'s Pilgrimage.

He tells how they believe the Christian Trinity is a distorted version of the true Trinity of Hastur and that Quarrie, along with the university professor [[Roberto Anzalone]] have gone in search of their god. At about this time [[Browne]] notices a page of notes pinned to a blank canvas. Several phrases leap out at him - '[[Springer Mound]]', '[[The King in Yellow]]', '[[Nepal]]' and '[[Drakmar]]'. It seems to be notes for a planned tryptich showing the Trinity of hastur. Browne pockets the paper.

Just as Villers is about to explain the Pilgrimage in detail he suddenly stops talking. A strange look comes across his face as if he's suddenly realised that he's telling private business to stangers. He says 'I just need to get something' and makes for the door.

Before anyone can react, the artist opens the door and cries out "Angel! I bound you and I release you!". He steps out, slams the door shut behind him and a heavy thump comes from the roof.

The investigators look up just as the skylight implodes and a[[byakhee]] crashes down to the floor, almost on top of [[Bartlett]]. Bartlett barely has time to register surprise as the creature tears his stomach open with a single grab of its great claws, spraying gore across the room.

Browne dives for the window, Saunders grabs an easel and Withers picks up a nearby pokert and lays into the monstet, cracking a perfect blow against its snout, breaking bone and crusing flesh. the byakhee shrieks and with a thundrous flapping of wings flies staight up and out into the night sky.

Outside, Browne gives chase to Villiers, catching him, landing and ineffective blow and then receiving a well-simed kick to his bad ankle that leaves him writhing as Villiers flees into the night.

Back in the studio, the others try to aid Bartlett, but he is already dead.

Tatters of the King

2006-08-18T04:01:12Z

202.74.213.250: /* Sessions */

[[Image:Tatters_Cover.gif|right]]
'''Tatters of the King'''[http://catalog.chaosium.com/product_info.php?products_id=773&osCsid=07f84f248e3a49f3cf6199ee7fbb6629] is a new Call of Cthulhu campaign written by Tim Wiseman and published by [http://chaosium.com Chaosium] and through which our role-playing [http://tentaclesandunderpants.info group] is currently being run. Play started on May 8th 2006. See [[current events]] for next session date.

The game is being played in the suburb of Ellerslie, in [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Auckland Auckland, New Zealand].

==Setting==

The game is initially set in [http://www.yog-sothoth.com/docs/article-london-guide-1928.pdf London], [http://greywolfnz.homeip.net/wiki/attachments/1928.doc 1928]. It is the start of a bitterly cold winter, the worst in decades.

London is the capital of an empire covering a quarter of the globe and governing one quarter of the human race. The people busy themselves with concerns of politics and government, finance and production, work and recreation. How fragile things are. What ignorance there is.

There are those whose engage in different pursuits - who would see an inhuman power come to Earth such that it would make mundane activity seem like a last twitch before dying.........

==GM==

The Keeper of Arcane Lore is [[Mark Chiddicks]]

==Players==

The players are:

[[Nicola Bishop]]

[[Julia Blackmore]]

[[Marcus Gustafsson]]

[[Darryn Mercer]]

==[[Player Characters]]==

[[image:crew.jpg|right|200px]]

[[Doctor Frederick Bartlett]] - Eminent research psychologist, played by Marcus Gustafsson.

[[Nathaniel Browne]] - A failed writer, looking for his big story, played by Darryn Mercer

[[Andrew Saunders]] - British Museum curator and proud Scot, Played by Julia Blackmore.

[[Captain George Withers]] - Coldstream Guards. Career soldier. Played by Nicola Bishop.

==Notable Non-Player Characters==

'''Prologue'''

[[Talbot Estus]] (deceased) - American novelist, now debuting as a playwright

''The Group'' - an amateur theatrical troupe:

[[Michael Gillen]] - Retired publisher, amateur actor and acquaintance of [[Doctor Frederick Bartlett]]. Estus's friend and companion.

[[Hannah Keith]] - Amateur Actress and sister of [[Andrew Saunders]]

[[George Keith]] - Amateur Actor and husband of [[Hannah Keith]]

[[Walter Paige]] - Amateur Actor

[[Jean Hewart]] - Amateur Actress

'''Chapter One'''

[[Dr. Charles Highsmith]] - Asylum Superintendent

[[Alexander Roby]] - Incarcerated Madman

[[Lucius Harriwell]] - Incarcerated Madman

[[Price and Evans]] - Asylum Nurses

'''Chapter Two'''

[[Dr. Lionel Trollope]] (deceased) - Roby family physician

[[Grahame Roby]] - Financier, Alexander Roby's brother

[[Detective Inspector Andrew Taylor]] - of New Scotland Yard

[[Delia Hartston]] - Alexander Roby's former fiancee, now [[Delia Morrison]]

[[Peter Morrison]] - Abusive husband of Delia

[[Vincent Tuck]] - Private Detective, hired by Grahame Roby

[[Coombes]] (deceased?) - Sinister stalker, Bacon's ex-bodyguard.

'''Chapter Three'''

[[Harold Jennings]] (deceased) - Unfriendly Suffolk farmer

[[Wilfred Gresty]] - Mysterious letter writer

[[Montague Edwards]] (deceased) - Alexander Roby's secret guardian

[[Lawrence Bacon]] (deceased?) - Antiquarian, occultist and sorcerer

[[Malcolm Quarrie]] - Elusive scientist and occultist

[[Hillary Quarrie]] - Estranged wife of Malcolm

[[Atkinson]] - Cult leader from the West Country

'''Chapter Four'''

[[Cec Watts]] (deceased) - Tabloid Journalist

[[Henry Lister]] - Terrified cultist and necrophobe

[[Quentin Spence]] - Poet and Failed Cultist

[[Noss]] of Yhtill - Leather worker from an alien world

[[Yolanda]] - Noblewoman from [[Cassilda]]'s court

==Literary Works==

[[Carcosa, or The Queen and the Stranger]] - a fantasy in two acts, [http://greywolfnz.homeip.net/wiki/attachments/CARCOSA.pdf script] by [[Talbot Estus]]

[[Le Roi en Jeune]] - a rare French play, playwright anonymous

[http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/The_King_in_Yellow The King in Yellow] - a collection of short [http://www.yankeeclassic.com/miskatonic/library/stacks/literature/chambers/stories/kinginye/contents.htm stories] by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Robert_W._Chambers Robert W Chambers]

[[An Inhabitant of Carcosa and Haita the Shepherd]] - by [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Ambrose_Bierce Ambrose Bierce]

[[Der Wanderer durch den See]] - by [[Alexander Roby]]

[[British Gods]]: Religion and Myth in the Western Kingdoms of Anglo-Saxon Britain - by [[Malcolm Quarrie]]

[[The Turner Codex]]: A translation of Mesoamerican prayers and libations to Hastur - trans. M. Turner ''et al''

==Locations==

[http://www.mdx.ac.uk/www/study/mapengwa.htm Map of England and Wales, 1928]

[http://www.yog-sothoth.com/docs/article-london-guide-1928.pdf London], England - [http://www.londonancestor.com/maps/roads-central.htm Map of London, 1926]

The [[Scala Theatre]], Charlotte St, London

[[St Agnes Asylum]], [[Weobley]], Herefordshire, England

[[Clare Melford]], Suffolk, England

[[Loch Mullardoch]], near Inverness, Scotland

[[Carcosa]], a dream city made flesh

==Sessions==

''As referred to in the session reports below, there have been a number of [[murders]] related to the Roby case.''

[[Session 1]] - Opening Night

[[Session 1.5]] - The Madman

[[Session 2]] - The Plot Thickens

[[Session 3]] - Alexander's Friends

[[Session 4]] - Teeth of Winter

[[Session 5]] - Four Go Mad in London

[[Session 6]] - Death by Night, Death by Day

[[Session 7]] - Missing Persons

[[Session 8]] - To Walk Upon the Earth in Carcosa

[[Session 9]] - Aftermath - a Year in the Lives...

[[Session 10]] - The Man From Goatswood

Tatters of the King

2006-08-18T03:59:37Z

202.74.213.250: /* Notable Non-Player Characters */

Session 9

2006-08-18T03:55:27Z

202.74.213.250: /* April 1929 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 7th August, 2006==

=== December 1928 ===

Inverness, the morning after. [[Bartlett]] is hospitalised and sedated, his wife hurries to be by his side. [[Saunders]], though critically hurt, is conscious, and Jennifer and the rest of his family flock to his side.

Meanwhile, [[Browne]] and [[Withers]]. More or less intact, use their experience of such things to spin a tale to the Scottish police which convinces them that their attacker was [[Alexander Roby]], who killed [[Edwards]] with some kind of acid then stabbed [[Saunders]] before fleeing. Though there are many holes in the story, its the best the police have, and the investigators are released.

Local newspapers report the [http://www.artistmonkey.com/Downloads/19_Newspaper_Article_on_Events_in_the_Highlands.pdf deaths of a number of villagers] in Cannich on the night that Carcosa vanished

On the 14th, Browne returns to London, where his is inspired to start turning his exoperiences into short stories. He is joined a couple of days later by Withers. They still want to find [[Malcolm Quarrie]] and [[Wilfred Gresty]].

[[Browne]] sends a letter, by hand, to 'Occult Magazine', offering a book of [[Bacon]]'s to the author of the dead occultist's obituary. the next day he recieves a call from a man claiming to be the writer, and an invitation to meet that evening by [http://k-punk.abstractdynamics.org/archives/east_karl_marx_tomb.jpg Karl Marx's Tomb]in Highgate Cemetary.

Browne arrives early, and Withers hides behind a nearby gravestone. It is a chill evening. A middle-aged man arrives and introdcues himself, though browne instantly recognises [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aleister_Crowley Aleister Crowley], the self-styled 'wickedest man alive".

Crowley thought little of Bacon, and is disappointed that the book on offer is merely a copy of '[[Le Roi en Jeune]]', but he's much more interested in [[Edwards]] and [[Malcolm Quarrie]] and attempts to trade for information. He reveals that Quarrie went to Italy to seek 'Il Fratelli di Signo Giallo' (the [[Brothers of the Yellow Sign]]), a society who perform a version of '[[The King in Yellow]]' annually.

Shortly after this, Browne realises Crowley is attempting to use Mesmerism, or some other form of mental domination on him. When Crowley realises his attempts have fails he says that he must leave, but invites browne to a party he is holding the next week. As he leaves the cemetary, Crowley tells Withers 'you can come out now'.

Browne goes to the party - from which Crowley is sadly absent, and learns many things about the appetites of the rich and bored. He bathes in sin for a few hours, and returns to write more stories.

Over the next week or so, in the run up the Christmas, Withers is busy with duty and Browne with writing, so no further leads are uncovered.

Bartlett wakes from his induced coma, screaming about 'the eyes', and has a nervous breakdown.

Christmas comes. Bartlett is under sedation, Browne at his neices, Withers is at the Windsor castle celbrations, witht the King himself and Saunders, though hospitalised, has a family christmas as far as possible.

On Hogmanay, Saunders is spirited out of the hospital by his cousin and has so much fun he sets his recovery back by a month.

1928 ends.

==January 1929==

[[Browne]] finished his book of short stories and submits them to his publisher. With [[Withers]] he visits Tewkesbury, but can trace no living realtive of [[Malcolm Quarrie]].

All leads reach dead ends.

==February 1929==

[[Saunders]] is released from hosptal, returns to london and dines with his friends. [[Browne]] is delighted to reveal that his book is to be published!

Withers and [[Delia Hartston]] drift ever closer, still kept apart by social convention.

[[Bartlett]], physically mended (though badly scarred) is transferred to a private hospital in London, and his friends visit him. He starts therapy for his mental injuries.

Saunders returns to work.

==March 1929==

The Hyades dip below the horizon and with that the influence of [[Hastur]] stops dead. The dreams stop - those artists, like [[Browne]] filled with inspiration based on the Carcosa mythos feel themselves bereft of ideas - though slowly their sane, everyday muses return.

The long cold winter ends.

Browne's book is published, and sells in truckloasds to all those whose dreams of Carcosa have just left them. He is a great success, and starts to enjoy the novel experience.

[[Bartlett]] is released to the care of his wife. A combination of medication and psychotheraspy is slowly returning him to mental health.

==April 1929==

Spring is in full bloom, and, in the absence of further leads, the investiagtors forget about [[Malcolm Quarrie]] and [[Wilfred Gresty]] and enjoy their lives.

==May 1929==

There is talk of a US publication for [[Browne]]'s stories.

==June thru November 1929==

The events of the previous year sink ever further into memory, and the investigators meet less frequently. All seems right with the world until the middle of the month.

On the 17th, the Hyades rise, and the dreams return with a vengance. Both [[Browne]] and [[Saunders]] find their dreams of the previous year extended to dark, disturbing conclusions. once more [[the Yellow Sign]] and [[the King in Yellow]] start to appear in graffiti, art and whispered rumour.

On October 29th, the American Stock Market crashes dramatically. It seems to mae\rk the end of the good times.

the investigators meet and decide to start looking for clues all over again, but November is a frustrating, fruitless time.

==December 13th 1929==

Suddenly, a breakthrough. The papers [http://www.artistmonkey.com/Downloads/20_Newspaper_Article_on_Grestys_Arrest.pdf report] the arrest of a '[[Wilfred Gresty]]' for an assault on a priest in a London Church, and reveal the location and time of his appearance before the magistate, later that very day.

At long last, the game is, once more, afoot!

Session 9

2006-08-18T03:54:52Z

202.74.213.250: /* June thru October 1929 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 7th August, 2006==

=== December 1928 ===

Inverness, the morning after. [[Bartlett]] is hospitalised and sedated, his wife hurries to be by his side. [[Saunders]], though critically hurt, is conscious, and Jennifer and the rest of his family flock to his side.

Meanwhile, [[Browne]] and [[Withers]]. More or less intact, use their experience of such things to spin a tale to the Scottish police which convinces them that their attacker was [[Alexander Roby]], who killed [[Edwards]] with some kind of acid then stabbed [[Saunders]] before fleeing. Though there are many holes in the story, its the best the police have, and the investigators are released.

Local newspapers report the [http://www.artistmonkey.com/Downloads/19_Newspaper_Article_on_Events_in_the_Highlands.pdf deaths of a number of villagers] in Cannich on the night that Carcosa vanished

On the 14th, Browne returns to London, where his is inspired to start turning his exoperiences into short stories. He is joined a couple of days later by Withers. They still want to find [[Malcolm Quarrie]] and [[Wilfred Gresty]].

[[Browne]] sends a letter, by hand, to 'Occult Magazine', offering a book of [[Bacon]]'s to the author of the dead occultist's obituary. the next day he recieves a call from a man claiming to be the writer, and an invitation to meet that evening by [http://k-punk.abstractdynamics.org/archives/east_karl_marx_tomb.jpg Karl Marx's Tomb]in Highgate Cemetary.

Browne arrives early, and Withers hides behind a nearby gravestone. It is a chill evening. A middle-aged man arrives and introdcues himself, though browne instantly recognises [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aleister_Crowley Aleister Crowley], the self-styled 'wickedest man alive".

Crowley thought little of Bacon, and is disappointed that the book on offer is merely a copy of '[[Le Roi en Jeune]]', but he's much more interested in [[Edwards]] and [[Malcolm Quarrie]] and attempts to trade for information. He reveals that Quarrie went to Italy to seek 'Il Fratelli di Signo Giallo' (the [[Brothers of the Yellow Sign]]), a society who perform a version of '[[The King in Yellow]]' annually.

Shortly after this, Browne realises Crowley is attempting to use Mesmerism, or some other form of mental domination on him. When Crowley realises his attempts have fails he says that he must leave, but invites browne to a party he is holding the next week. As he leaves the cemetary, Crowley tells Withers 'you can come out now'.

Browne goes to the party - from which Crowley is sadly absent, and learns many things about the appetites of the rich and bored. He bathes in sin for a few hours, and returns to write more stories.

Over the next week or so, in the run up the Christmas, Withers is busy with duty and Browne with writing, so no further leads are uncovered.

Bartlett wakes from his induced coma, screaming about 'the eyes', and has a nervous breakdown.

Christmas comes. Bartlett is under sedation, Browne at his neices, Withers is at the Windsor castle celbrations, witht the King himself and Saunders, though hospitalised, has a family christmas as far as possible.

On Hogmanay, Saunders is spirited out of the hospital by his cousin and has so much fun he sets his recovery back by a month.

1928 ends.

==January 1929==

[[Browne]] finished his book of short stories and submits them to his publisher. With [[Withers]] he visits Tewkesbury, but can trace no living realtive of [[Malcolm Quarrie]].

All leads reach dead ends.

==February 1929==

[[Saunders]] is released from hosptal, returns to london and dines with his friends. [[Browne]] is delighted to reveal that his book is to be published!

Withers and [[Delia Hartston]] drift ever closer, still kept apart by social convention.

[[Bartlett]], physically mended (though badly scarred) is transferred to a private hospital in London, and his friends visit him. He starts therapy for his mental injuries.

Saunders returns to work.

==March 1929==

The Hyades dip below the horizon and with that the influence of [[Hastur]] stops dead. The dreams stop - those artists, like [[Browne]] filled with inspiration based on the Carcosa mythos feel themselves bereft of ideas - though slowly their sane, everyday muses return.

The long cold winter ends.

Browne's book is published, and sells in truckloasds to all those whose dreams of Carcosa have just left them. He is a great success, and starts to enjoy the novel experience.

[[Bartlett]] is released to the care of his wife. A combination of medication and psychotheraspy is slowly returning him to mental health.

==April 1929==

Spring is in full bloom, and, in the absence of further leads, the investiagtors forget about [[Quarrie]] and [[Gresty]] and enjoy their lives.

==May 1929==

There is talk of a US publication for [[Browne]]'s stories.

==June thru November 1929==

The events of the previous year sink ever further into memory, and the investigators meet less frequently. All seems right with the world until the middle of the month.

On the 17th, the Hyades rise, and the dreams return with a vengance. Both [[Browne]] and [[Saunders]] find their dreams of the previous year extended to dark, disturbing conclusions. once more [[the Yellow Sign]] and [[the King in Yellow]] start to appear in graffiti, art and whispered rumour.

On October 29th, the American Stock Market crashes dramatically. It seems to mae\rk the end of the good times.

the investigators meet and decide to start looking for clues all over again, but November is a frustrating, fruitless time.

==December 13th 1929==

Suddenly, a breakthrough. The papers [http://www.artistmonkey.com/Downloads/20_Newspaper_Article_on_Grestys_Arrest.pdf report] the arrest of a '[[Wilfred Gresty]]' for an assault on a priest in a London Church, and reveal the location and time of his appearance before the magistate, later that very day.

At long last, the game is, once more, afoot!

Session 9

2006-08-18T03:54:15Z

202.74.213.250: /* January 1929 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 7th August, 2006==

=== December 1928 ===

Inverness, the morning after. [[Bartlett]] is hospitalised and sedated, his wife hurries to be by his side. [[Saunders]], though critically hurt, is conscious, and Jennifer and the rest of his family flock to his side.

Meanwhile, [[Browne]] and [[Withers]]. More or less intact, use their experience of such things to spin a tale to the Scottish police which convinces them that their attacker was [[Alexander Roby]], who killed [[Edwards]] with some kind of acid then stabbed [[Saunders]] before fleeing. Though there are many holes in the story, its the best the police have, and the investigators are released.

Local newspapers report the [http://www.artistmonkey.com/Downloads/19_Newspaper_Article_on_Events_in_the_Highlands.pdf deaths of a number of villagers] in Cannich on the night that Carcosa vanished

On the 14th, Browne returns to London, where his is inspired to start turning his exoperiences into short stories. He is joined a couple of days later by Withers. They still want to find [[Malcolm Quarrie]] and [[Wilfred Gresty]].

[[Browne]] sends a letter, by hand, to 'Occult Magazine', offering a book of [[Bacon]]'s to the author of the dead occultist's obituary. the next day he recieves a call from a man claiming to be the writer, and an invitation to meet that evening by [http://k-punk.abstractdynamics.org/archives/east_karl_marx_tomb.jpg Karl Marx's Tomb]in Highgate Cemetary.

Browne arrives early, and Withers hides behind a nearby gravestone. It is a chill evening. A middle-aged man arrives and introdcues himself, though browne instantly recognises [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aleister_Crowley Aleister Crowley], the self-styled 'wickedest man alive".

Crowley thought little of Bacon, and is disappointed that the book on offer is merely a copy of '[[Le Roi en Jeune]]', but he's much more interested in [[Edwards]] and [[Malcolm Quarrie]] and attempts to trade for information. He reveals that Quarrie went to Italy to seek 'Il Fratelli di Signo Giallo' (the [[Brothers of the Yellow Sign]]), a society who perform a version of '[[The King in Yellow]]' annually.

Shortly after this, Browne realises Crowley is attempting to use Mesmerism, or some other form of mental domination on him. When Crowley realises his attempts have fails he says that he must leave, but invites browne to a party he is holding the next week. As he leaves the cemetary, Crowley tells Withers 'you can come out now'.

Browne goes to the party - from which Crowley is sadly absent, and learns many things about the appetites of the rich and bored. He bathes in sin for a few hours, and returns to write more stories.

Over the next week or so, in the run up the Christmas, Withers is busy with duty and Browne with writing, so no further leads are uncovered.

Bartlett wakes from his induced coma, screaming about 'the eyes', and has a nervous breakdown.

Christmas comes. Bartlett is under sedation, Browne at his neices, Withers is at the Windsor castle celbrations, witht the King himself and Saunders, though hospitalised, has a family christmas as far as possible.

On Hogmanay, Saunders is spirited out of the hospital by his cousin and has so much fun he sets his recovery back by a month.

1928 ends.

==January 1929==

[[Browne]] finished his book of short stories and submits them to his publisher. With [[Withers]] he visits Tewkesbury, but can trace no living realtive of [[Malcolm Quarrie]].

All leads reach dead ends.

==February 1929==

[[Saunders]] is released from hosptal, returns to london and dines with his friends. [[Browne]] is delighted to reveal that his book is to be published!

Withers and [[Delia Hartston]] drift ever closer, still kept apart by social convention.

[[Bartlett]], physically mended (though badly scarred) is transferred to a private hospital in London, and his friends visit him. He starts therapy for his mental injuries.

Saunders returns to work.

==March 1929==

The Hyades dip below the horizon and with that the influence of [[Hastur]] stops dead. The dreams stop - those artists, like [[Browne]] filled with inspiration based on the Carcosa mythos feel themselves bereft of ideas - though slowly their sane, everyday muses return.

The long cold winter ends.

Browne's book is published, and sells in truckloasds to all those whose dreams of Carcosa have just left them. He is a great success, and starts to enjoy the novel experience.

[[Bartlett]] is released to the care of his wife. A combination of medication and psychotheraspy is slowly returning him to mental health.

==April 1929==

Spring is in full bloom, and, in the absence of further leads, the investiagtors forget about [[Quarrie]] and [[Gresty]] and enjoy their lives.

==May 1929==

There is talk of a US publication for [[Browne]]'s stories.

==June thru October 1929==

The events of the previous year sink ever further into memory, and the investigators meet less frequently. All seems right with the world until the middle of the month.

On the 17th, the Hyades rise, and the dreams return with a vengance. Both [[Browne]] and [[Saunders]] find their dreams of the previous year extended to dark, disturbing conclusions. once more [[the Yellow Sign]] and [[the King in Yellow]] start to appear in graffiti, art and whispered rumour.

On October 29th, the American Stock Market crashes dramatically. It seems to mae\rk the end of the good times.

the investigators meet and decide to start looking for clues all over again, but November is a frustrating, fruitless time.

[[December 13th 1929]]

Suddenly, a breakthrough. The papers [http://www.artistmonkey.com/Downloads/20_Newspaper_Article_on_Grestys_Arrest.pdf report] the arrest of a '[[Wilfred Gresty]]' for an assault on a priest in a London Church, and reveal the location and time of his appearance before the magistate, later that very day.

At long last, the game is, once more, afoot!

Session 9

2006-08-18T03:53:48Z

202.74.213.250: /* December 1928 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 7th August, 2006==

=== December 1928 ===

Inverness, the morning after. [[Bartlett]] is hospitalised and sedated, his wife hurries to be by his side. [[Saunders]], though critically hurt, is conscious, and Jennifer and the rest of his family flock to his side.

Meanwhile, [[Browne]] and [[Withers]]. More or less intact, use their experience of such things to spin a tale to the Scottish police which convinces them that their attacker was [[Alexander Roby]], who killed [[Edwards]] with some kind of acid then stabbed [[Saunders]] before fleeing. Though there are many holes in the story, its the best the police have, and the investigators are released.

Local newspapers report the [http://www.artistmonkey.com/Downloads/19_Newspaper_Article_on_Events_in_the_Highlands.pdf deaths of a number of villagers] in Cannich on the night that Carcosa vanished

On the 14th, Browne returns to London, where his is inspired to start turning his exoperiences into short stories. He is joined a couple of days later by Withers. They still want to find [[Malcolm Quarrie]] and [[Wilfred Gresty]].

[[Browne]] sends a letter, by hand, to 'Occult Magazine', offering a book of [[Bacon]]'s to the author of the dead occultist's obituary. the next day he recieves a call from a man claiming to be the writer, and an invitation to meet that evening by [http://k-punk.abstractdynamics.org/archives/east_karl_marx_tomb.jpg Karl Marx's Tomb]in Highgate Cemetary.

Browne arrives early, and Withers hides behind a nearby gravestone. It is a chill evening. A middle-aged man arrives and introdcues himself, though browne instantly recognises [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aleister_Crowley Aleister Crowley], the self-styled 'wickedest man alive".

Crowley thought little of Bacon, and is disappointed that the book on offer is merely a copy of '[[Le Roi en Jeune]]', but he's much more interested in [[Edwards]] and [[Malcolm Quarrie]] and attempts to trade for information. He reveals that Quarrie went to Italy to seek 'Il Fratelli di Signo Giallo' (the [[Brothers of the Yellow Sign]]), a society who perform a version of '[[The King in Yellow]]' annually.

Shortly after this, Browne realises Crowley is attempting to use Mesmerism, or some other form of mental domination on him. When Crowley realises his attempts have fails he says that he must leave, but invites browne to a party he is holding the next week. As he leaves the cemetary, Crowley tells Withers 'you can come out now'.

Browne goes to the party - from which Crowley is sadly absent, and learns many things about the appetites of the rich and bored. He bathes in sin for a few hours, and returns to write more stories.

Over the next week or so, in the run up the Christmas, Withers is busy with duty and Browne with writing, so no further leads are uncovered.

Bartlett wakes from his induced coma, screaming about 'the eyes', and has a nervous breakdown.

Christmas comes. Bartlett is under sedation, Browne at his neices, Withers is at the Windsor castle celbrations, witht the King himself and Saunders, though hospitalised, has a family christmas as far as possible.

On Hogmanay, Saunders is spirited out of the hospital by his cousin and has so much fun he sets his recovery back by a month.

1928 ends.

==January 1929==

[[Browne]] finished his book odf short stories and submits them to his publisher. With [[Withers]] he visits Tewkesbury, but can trace no living realtive of [[Malcolm Quarrie]].

All leads reach dead ends.

==February 1929==

[[Saunders]] is released from hosptal, returns to london and dines with his friends. [[Browne]] is delighted to reveal that his book is to be published!

Withers and [[Delia Hartston]] drift ever closer, still kept apart by social convention.

[[Bartlett]], physically mended (though badly scarred) is transferred to a private hospital in London, and his friends visit him. He starts therapy for his mental injuries.

Saunders returns to work.

==March 1929==

The Hyades dip below the horizon and with that the influence of [[Hastur]] stops dead. The dreams stop - those artists, like [[Browne]] filled with inspiration based on the Carcosa mythos feel themselves bereft of ideas - though slowly their sane, everyday muses return.

The long cold winter ends.

Browne's book is published, and sells in truckloasds to all those whose dreams of Carcosa have just left them. He is a great success, and starts to enjoy the novel experience.

[[Bartlett]] is released to the care of his wife. A combination of medication and psychotheraspy is slowly returning him to mental health.

==April 1929==

Spring is in full bloom, and, in the absence of further leads, the investiagtors forget about [[Quarrie]] and [[Gresty]] and enjoy their lives.

==May 1929==

There is talk of a US publication for [[Browne]]'s stories.

==June thru October 1929==

The events of the previous year sink ever further into memory, and the investigators meet less frequently. All seems right with the world until the middle of the month.

On the 17th, the Hyades rise, and the dreams return with a vengance. Both [[Browne]] and [[Saunders]] find their dreams of the previous year extended to dark, disturbing conclusions. once more [[the Yellow Sign]] and [[the King in Yellow]] start to appear in graffiti, art and whispered rumour.

On October 29th, the American Stock Market crashes dramatically. It seems to mae\rk the end of the good times.

the investigators meet and decide to start looking for clues all over again, but November is a frustrating, fruitless time.

[[December 13th 1929]]

Suddenly, a breakthrough. The papers [http://www.artistmonkey.com/Downloads/20_Newspaper_Article_on_Grestys_Arrest.pdf report] the arrest of a '[[Wilfred Gresty]]' for an assault on a priest in a London Church, and reveal the location and time of his appearance before the magistate, later that very day.

At long last, the game is, once more, afoot!

Session 9

2006-08-18T03:53:14Z

202.74.213.250: /* December 1928 */

==Session Report - Played Monday 7th August, 2006==

=== December 1928 ===

Inverness, the morning after. [[Bartlett]] is hospitalised and sedated, his wife hurries to be by his side. [[Saunders]], though critically hurt, is conscious, and Jennifer and the rest of his family flock to his side.

Meanwhile, [[Browne]] and [[Withers]]. More or less intact, use their experience of such things to spin a tale to the Scottish police which convinces them that their attacker was [[Alexander Roby]], who killed [[Edwards]] with some kind of acid then stabbed [[Saunders]] before fleeing. Though there are many holes in the story, its the best the police have, and the investigators are released.

Local newspapers report the [http://www.artistmonkey.com/Downloads/19_Newspaper_Article_on_Events_in_the_Highlands.pdf deaths of a number of villagers] in Cannich on the night that Carcosa vanished

On the 14th, Browne returns to London, where his is inspired to start turning his exoperiences into short stories. He is joined a couple of days later by Withers. They still want to find [[Malcolm Quarrie]] and [[Wilfred Gresty]].

[[Browne]] sends a letter, by hand, to 'Occult Magazine', offering a book of [[Bacon]]'s to the author of the dead occultist's obituary. the next day he recieves a call from a man claiming to be the writer, and an invitation to meet that evening by [http://k-punk.abstractdynamics.org/archives/east_karl_marx_tomb.jpg Karl Marx's Tomb]in Highgate Cemetary.

Browne arrives early, and Withers hides behind a nearby gravestone. It is a chill evening. A middle-aged man arrives and introdcues himself, though browne instantly recognises [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aleister_Crowley Aleister Crowley], the self-styled 'wickedest man alive".

Crowley thought little of Bacon, and is disappointed that the book on offer is merely a copy of '[[Le Roi en Jeune]]', but he's much more interested in [[Edwards]] and [[Malcolm Quarrie]] and attempts to trade for information. He reveals that Quarrie went to Italy to seek 'Il Fratelli di Signo Giallo' (the [[Brothers of the Yellow Sign]]), a society who perform a version of '[[the King In Yellow]]' annually.

Shortly after this, Browne realises Crowley is attempting to use Mesmerism, or some other form of mental domination on him. When Crowley realises his attempts have fails he says that he must leave, but invites browne to a party he is holding the next week. As he leaves the cemetary, Crowley tells Withers 'you can come out now'.

Browne goes to the party - from which Crowley is sadly absent, and learns many things about the appetites of the rich and bored. He bathes in sin for a few hours, and returns to write more stories.

Over the next week or so, in the run up the Christmas, Withers is busy with duty and Browne with writing, so no further leads are uncovered.

Bartlett wakes from his induced coma, screaming about 'the eyes', and has a nervous breakdown.

Christmas comes. Bartlett is under sedation, Browne at his neices, Withers is at the Windsor castle celbrations, witht the King himself and Saunders, though hospitalised, has a family christmas as far as possible.

On Hogmanay, Saunders is spirited out of the hospital by his cousin and has so much fun he sets his recovery back by a month.

1928 ends.

==January 1929==

[[Browne]] finished his book odf short stories and submits them to his publisher. With [[Withers]] he visits Tewkesbury, but can trace no living realtive of [[Malcolm Quarrie]].

All leads reach dead ends.

==February 1929==

[[Saunders]] is released from hosptal, returns to london and dines with his friends. [[Browne]] is delighted to reveal that his book is to be published!

Withers and [[Delia Hartston]] drift ever closer, still kept apart by social convention.

[[Bartlett]], physically mended (though badly scarred) is transferred to a private hospital in London, and his friends visit him. He starts therapy for his mental injuries.

Saunders returns to work.

==March 1929==

The Hyades dip below the horizon and with that the influence of [[Hastur]] stops dead. The dreams stop - those artists, like [[Browne]] filled with inspiration based on the Carcosa mythos feel themselves bereft of ideas - though slowly their sane, everyday muses return.

The long cold winter ends.

Browne's book is published, and sells in truckloasds to all those whose dreams of Carcosa have just left them. He is a great success, and starts to enjoy the novel experience.

[[Bartlett]] is released to the care of his wife. A combination of medication and psychotheraspy is slowly returning him to mental health.

==April 1929==

Spring is in full bloom, and, in the absence of further leads, the investiagtors forget about [[Quarrie]] and [[Gresty]] and enjoy their lives.

==May 1929==

There is talk of a US publication for [[Browne]]'s stories.

==June thru October 1929==

The events of the previous year sink ever further into memory, and the investigators meet less frequently. All seems right with the world until the middle of the month.

On the 17th, the Hyades rise, and the dreams return with a vengance. Both [[Browne]] and [[Saunders]] find their dreams of the previous year extended to dark, disturbing conclusions. once more [[the Yellow Sign]] and [[the King in Yellow]] start to appear in graffiti, art and whispered rumour.

On October 29th, the American Stock Market crashes dramatically. It seems to mae\rk the end of the good times.

the investigators meet and decide to start looking for clues all over again, but November is a frustrating, fruitless time.

[[December 13th 1929]]

Suddenly, a breakthrough. The papers [http://www.artistmonkey.com/Downloads/20_Newspaper_Article_on_Grestys_Arrest.pdf report] the arrest of a '[[Wilfred Gresty]]' for an assault on a priest in a London Church, and reveal the location and time of his appearance before the magistate, later that very day.

At long last, the game is, once more, afoot!

Session 9

2006-08-18T03:52:23Z

202.74.213.250: /* Tuesday December 11th */

==Session Report - Played Monday 7th August, 2006==

=== December 1928 ===

Inverness, the morning after. [[Bartlett]] is hospitalised and sedated, his wife hurries to be by his side. [[Saunders]], though critically hurt, is conscious, and Jennifer and the rest of his family flock to his side.

Meanwhile, [[Browne]] and [[Withers]]. More or less intact, use their experience of such things to spin a tale to the Scottish police which convinces them that their attacker was [[Alexander Roby]], who killed [[Edwards]] with some kind of acid then stabbed [[Saunders]] before fleeing. Though there are many holes in the story, its the best the police have, and the investigators are released.

Local newspapers report the [http://www.artistmonkey.com/Downloads/19_Newspaper_Article_on_Events_in_the_Highlands.pdf deaths of a number of villagers] in Cannich on the night that Carcosa vanished

On the 14th, Browne returns to London, where his is inspired to start turning his exoperiences into short stories. He is joined a couple of days later by Withers. They still want to find [[Malcolm Quarrie]] and [[Wilfred Gresty]].

[[Browne]] sends a letter, by hand, to 'Occult Magazine', offering a book of [[Bacon]]'s to the author of the dead occultist's obituary. the next day he recieves a call from a man claiming to be the writer, and an invitation to meet that evening by [http://k-punk.abstractdynamics.org/archives/east_karl_marx_tomb.jpg Karl Marx's Tomb]in Highgate Cemetary.

Browne arrives early, and Withers hides behind a nearby gravestone. It is a chill evening. A middle-aged man arrives and introdcues himself, though browne instantly recognises [http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Aleister_Crowley Aleister Crowley], the self-styled 'wickedest man alive".

Crowley thought little of Bacon, and is disappointed that the book on offer is merely a copy of '[[Le Roi en Jeune]]', but he's much more interested in [[Edwards]] and [[Quarrie]] and attempts to trade for information. He reveals that Quarrie went to Italy to seek 'Il Fratelli di Signo Giallo' (the [[Brothers of the Yellow Sign]]), a society who perform a version of '[[the King In Yellow]]' annually.

Shortly after this, Browne realises Crowley is attempting to use Mesmerism, or some other form of mental domination on him. When Crowley realises his attempts have fails he says that he must leave, but invites browne to a party he is holding the next week. As he leaves the cemetary, Crowley tells Withers 'you can come out now'.

Browne goes to the party - from which Crowley is sadly absent, and learns many things about the appetites of the rich and bored. He bathes in sin for a few hours, and returns to write more stories.

Over the next week or so, in the run up the Christmas, Withers is busy with duty and Browne with writing, so no further leads are uncovered.

Bartlett wakes from his induced coma, screaming about 'the eyes', and has a nervous breakdown.

Christmas comes. Bartlett is under sedation, Browne at his neices, Withers is at the Windsor castle celbrations, witht the King himself and Saunders, though hospitalised, has a family christmas as far as possible.

On Hogmanay, Saunders is spirited out of the hospital by his cousin and has so much fun he sets his recovery back by a month.

1928 ends.

==January 1929==

[[Browne]] finished his book odf short stories and submits them to his publisher. With [[Withers]] he visits Tewkesbury, but can trace no living realtive of [[Malcolm Quarrie]].

All leads reach dead ends.

==February 1929==

[[Saunders]] is released from hosptal, returns to london and dines with his friends. [[Browne]] is delighted to reveal that his book is to be published!

Withers and [[Delia Hartston]] drift ever closer, still kept apart by social convention.

[[Bartlett]], physically mended (though badly scarred) is transferred to a private hospital in London, and his friends visit him. He starts therapy for his mental injuries.

Saunders returns to work.

==March 1929==

The Hyades dip below the horizon and with that the influence of [[Hastur]] stops dead. The dreams stop - those artists, like [[Browne]] filled with inspiration based on the Carcosa mythos feel themselves bereft of ideas - though slowly their sane, everyday muses return.

The long cold winter ends.

Browne's book is published, and sells in truckloasds to all those whose dreams of Carcosa have just left them. He is a great success, and starts to enjoy the novel experience.

[[Bartlett]] is released to the care of his wife. A combination of medication and psychotheraspy is slowly returning him to mental health.

==April 1929==

Spring is in full bloom, and, in the absence of further leads, the investiagtors forget about [[Quarrie]] and [[Gresty]] and enjoy their lives.

==May 1929==

There is talk of a US publication for [[Browne]]'s stories.

==June thru October 1929==

The events of the previous year sink ever further into memory, and the investigators meet less frequently. All seems right with the world until the middle of the month.

On the 17th, the Hyades rise, and the dreams return with a vengance. Both [[Browne]] and [[Saunders]] find their dreams of the previous year extended to dark, disturbing conclusions. once more [[the Yellow Sign]] and [[the King in Yellow]] start to appear in graffiti, art and whispered rumour.

On October 29th, the American Stock Market crashes dramatically. It seems to mae\rk the end of the good times.

the investigators meet and decide to start looking for clues all over again, but November is a frustrating, fruitless time.

[[December 13th 1929]]

Suddenly, a breakthrough. The papers [http://www.artistmonkey.com/Downloads/20_Newspaper_Article_on_Grestys_Arrest.pdf report] the arrest of a '[[Wilfred Gresty]]' for an assault on a priest in a London Church, and reveal the location and time of his appearance before the magistate, later that very day.

At long last, the game is, once more, afoot!