The game book contain lists of the players and GMs associated with the various games that have been selected for play over the years.

AmberCon NI 2020

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Thursday – Pre-Pre-Con Game

(11am – 5pm)

Game 0/1: Murder on Carnival Row

GM: Mel M
Cast: 4 – 6
System:

Set in the Carnival Row Universe, this game will be Bespoke Diceless. You should download information about the Carnival Row setting here: https://nerdist.com/wp-content/uploads/2019/09/Carnival-Row-RPG.pdf, and/or watch the TV series on Amazon Prime.

Description:

Carnival Row offers a dark, fantastic world that calls back to the styles and social graces of Edwardian London, in a society still shakily recovering from a conflict that resembles European colonial wars — but with industrialized destruction that resembles World War I.
There’s been a murder in Carnival Row, the fairish region of the great city, The Burgue. So what? You might ask. There’s murders here every day. But this murder occurred in the vicinity of The Tetterby Hotel, run by the faerie Madame Moira, who has recently turned the place into an upmarket place for salacious entertainment of many kinds. People – well, men – come here to discover if the rumours about the fae are true. So what led Miss Jennet Gorrish, respectable young lady from the upper class Finistere Crossing on the fashionable northside of the river Beorn to be found dead in the ornamental garden of the hotel, with an expression of terror on her lovely face? Is it a one-off case … or the start of something more sinister?

Characters:

You are someone caught up in the murder investigation. You can be police, friend or family of Miss Gorish, witness or suspect (and if you are a Faerish witness, you are also likely to be a suspect). You can be human (not necessarily from The Burgue) or Faerish. Come up with a proposal, and I’ll help you shape it.

Players:

1. Mel M (GM)
2. Alan W
3. Claire M
4. Esther vR
5. Ivo K
6. Keith M
7. Kevin D
8. Scott S

Thursday – Evening Game

(7pm – 12pm)

Game 1/1: As Above, So Below

GM: Natalie A
Cast: 4-8
System: Amber Mouseguard

Description:

Characters:

Players:

1. Natalie A (GM)
2. Jason P
3. Rachel W
4. Shadow A
5. Willem-Jan W

Game 1/2: End of the Line

GM: Matthew B
Cast: 4-6
System: Amber Mouseguard

Description:

Characters:

On the day using the Amber Mouseguard System

Players:

1. Matthew B (GM)
2. Keith M
3. Kevin D
4. Mel M
5. Scott S
6. Thom dJ

Game 1/3: Red Dawn

GM: Alan W
Cast: 6-8
System: ADRPG

Description:

“A revolution is always distinguished by impoliteness, probably because the ruling classes did not take the trouble in good season to teach the people fine manners.” (Trotsky)

The Empire of Chaos has been broken in a fruitless war. In the aftermath, friend is turned against friend; neighbour against neighbour. As the Solstice ends and the long night begins, who will be strong enough to bring on the new day?

Characters:

Characters are Chaosian survivors of the PatternFall War based on 50pts.

Characters can be nobles, peasants, gangmasters, privateers…whatever you like. What’s important is that you have the backing of the cities, clans and generals of the fragmented remnants of a once-great empire.

Details on available powers can be found here:

• Shape Shift: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1OeuMGMgzOCyvcd6aHU_NYuCgGRz4A1hG
• Sorcery: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1yT4vZu0PUGmw-pBihCXjeH0x_1AL4jDa
• Trump: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1Zj5OfaFSUrUx4cw6-Wvd2whnmq439bQz
• Power Words: https://drive.google.com/open?id=1Gu47OmYaqeQ2Szf9Rp87FfuWYmUOef34

Logrus is deliberately omitted; no-one has this power at the start of the game.

• You may not buy down to Human level (if you did you wouldn’t have lasted this long!).

• +/-5pts of “Stuff” Max.

• 8pt total limit on Artifacts & Creatures

• You get 3 free “non-combat” skills. Choose wisely!

Players:

1. Alan W (GM)
2. Alastair J
3. Ivo K
4. George K
5. Robert C
6. Sean S

Game 1/4: Ten Candles

GM: Marieke K
Cast: 3-5
System: Ten Candles

Description:

Ten Candles is a zero-prep cooperative storytelling game played by the light of ten tea light candles which provide atmosphere, act as a countdown timer for the game, and allow you to literally burn your character sheet away as you play (if the hotel allows it!).

Ten Candles is described as a “tragic horror” game rather than survival horror for one main reason: in Ten Candles there are no survivors. In the final scene of the game, when only one candle remains, all of the characters will die. In this, Ten Candles is not a game about “winning” or beating the monsters. Instead, it is a game about what happens in the dark, and about those who try to survive within it. It is a game about being pushed to the brink of madness and despair, searching for hope in a hopeless world, and trying to do something meaningful with your final few hours left.

Characters:

The stories generally last between 2-4 hours.   You’ve also be using dice (ed. I know, that’s the tragic horror part!)  And other than being comfortable in a dark room, you’ll not need anything else!

Players:

1. Marieke K (GM)
2. Anna J
3. David M
4. Edith B
5. Treasa M
6. Tym N

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Friday – Morning Game

(11am – 5pm)

Game 2/1: We are the Road Crew

GM: Tym N
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

King Oberon has ordered Prince Random out of the Palace for a while. So Random is making the most of the opportunity and taking his band on a tour of the Golden Circle.

Meanwhile Queen Paulette has ordered you to keep an eye on her (as she describes him) wayward son, so you have got yourselves into his entourage as band members, roadies or the like.

Characters:

75 point characters. No Pattern Imprint, Advanced powers or Shadowknight (with the exception of broken Pattern).

As always I reserve the right to veto anything I consider unsuitable for this game.

Players:

1. Tym N (GM)
2. Edith B
3. Esther vR
4. Matthew B
5. Rachel W
6. Sean S
7. Willem-Jan W

Game 2/2: I do like to be beside the Seaside

GM: Shadow A
Cast: 3-12
System: 5th Ed D&D with Pre-Gen characters! There will be dice, silliness and a Random Encounter Table!

Coordinator’s Note: This game is ideal for folk arriving later in morning/early afternoon – just drop in!

Description:

Flora has decided to drag her brothers and sisters off on a beach holiday to make up for the slightly disappointing picnic earlier in the year.

This is a loose sequel to ‘Bring Your Own Weather’ (ACNI 2019), but it won’t make any more sense if you *were* there. New and returning players welcome!

Characters:

Players will select one of the following pre-generated characters as they arrive, from those available at that time:

Deirdre (Barbarian)
Random (Bard)
Corwin (Cleric)
Llewella (Druid)
Eric (Fighter)
Gerard (Monk)
Benedict (Paladin)
Julian (Ranger)
Caine (Rogue)
Bleys (Sorcerer)
Brand (Warlock)
Fiona (Wizard)

Players:

1. Shadow A (GM)
2. Anna J
3. Jason P
4. Natalie A
5. Paul J
6. Sally P (Returning)
7. Thom dJ

Game 2/3: Delegation from the Land of Cymnea

GM: Keith M
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

Generations ago Queen Cymnea created worlds apart from other worlds. For time unnumbered these worlds stayed apart, unknown and undisturbed. Then a new reality was forged by Prince Corwin of Amber. Ripples from that making rocked the Cymnean worlds and heroes were called to protect them. Afterwards they were apart, but known. Prince Benedict and Prince (and then King) Merlin visited often.

Now a delegation from the Cymnean worlds travel to Amber to the Court of King Random…

A loose follow up to “Holding out for a Hero”. No experience necessary.

Characters:

You are all descendants of Cymnea. That may mean that you are children of Osric, Finndo or Benedict. Or descendants many times over. Perhaps you are a child of Benedict or Merlin from their recent visits. You all have walked the Cymnean Pattern but this is your first visit to Amber.

Characters are build on 100 points plus free Pattern. All powers from the basic rule book are available. You may detail your own personal Shadow for free as well as any allies unless you are bringing them with you. In addition the Cymnean Pattern gives you FOUR abilities or skills that you are exceptional with. These became more enhanced once you had traversed the Pattern.

All characters know each other but you can keep some times quiet.

Players:

1. Keith M (GM)
2. Alan W
3. Alastair J
4. Kevin D (Returning)
5. Marieke K (Returning)
6. Mel M
7. Scott S
8. Vivek D (Returning)

Game 2/4: Curses, like chickens, come home to roost.

GM: Robert C
Cast: 5-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

You have been naughty. The amount of naughty that made the Courts of Chaos chase you for a while now. You managed to outsmart them for a long time, but in the end they caught you. Where you expected this to be the end of your good life, but the opposite is true!

You are roughly pulled out of your cell and led to a luxury salon where you are ordered to sit at a perfectly laid table on which a high tea is served. You are not the only grubby person seated at this table. Just when you want to express your surprise and plan your escape, the door flies open and a striking person enters the room. He has a slender appearance with long white hair tied back in a tail and a pair of bright blue eyes. His tight, black clothes betray his relevance within the Courts of Chaos.

As he takes the seat on the head of the table and folds his hands he starts speaking.  “Good afternoon, ladies and gentlemen. My name is Mandor of the House of Laine, and I am going to make you a proposal. An assignment in exchange for your death penalty. But before I tell you what I expect from you in exchange for your punishment, I invite you to enjoy all the goodies that have been served for you.

Characters:

You will play a Chaosian. The characters will be made on the spot.

Players:

1. Robert C (GM)
2. Claire M
3. David M
4. George K
5. Ivo K
6. Treasa M

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Friday – Evening Game

(7pm to Late)

Game 3/1: The Moving Finger [Invisible Library]

GM: Anna J
Cast: 4, 6 or 8
System: Diceless

Description:

After months of training at the Invisible Library the time has finally come, your field assessment to go from trainee to junior librarian. As always those undergoing assessment will be paired with a librarian to observe their performance and attempt to prevent serious damage to the reputation of the library, the world in question and the apprentice (in that order of descending priority). You know very little about the assessment beyond the briefing you were given – to report to the entry point to world Beta-022 – and some brief details about the world itself – a standard Victorian 19th century world with very little remarkable about it – quite well balanced between order and chaos. You know there will be 2 or 3 teams going to the same world, each with their own mission and you are under instructions not to discuss yours with the other trainees. You’re confident, you’re ready for this – after all, how hard can it be to retrieve one little book?

Characters:

Players can be trainees or the librarians supervising their assessment. Both roles will have their challenges. In order to play a credible librarian you need to have at least read the Invisible Library and understand the Language. No points, no system (not even Dewey Decimal). Briefing notes will be provided. Please submit a character background outlining the world you come from and any particular skills or experience you think relevant.

Players:

1. Anna J (GM)
2. David M
3. Gary B
4. Jason P
5. Keith M
6. Marieke K
7. Mel M
8. Shadow A
9. Treasa M

Game 3/2: War Stories

GM: Matthew B
Cast: 4-6
System: Amber Mouseguard

Description:

Characters:

On the day using the Amber Mouseguard System

Players:

1. Matthew B (GM)
2. Edith B
3. Kevin D
4. Natalie A
5. Sally P
6. Tym N
7. Vivek D

Game 3/3: Some Other Eden

GM: Alan W
Cast: 6-8
System: ADRPG

Description:

O wonder!
How many goodly creatures are there here!
How beauteous mankind is! O brave new world
That has such people in’t!

Locked in his miserable fortress Oberon, King of Ashes, is not considered a threat. And yet who is this flame-haired queen that has taken charge? What might the calming of Kolvir portend? And why has a golden staircase risen from the sea?

A sequel to “For in that Sleep of Death…” (ACNI 2019)  New and returning players welcome.  Characters are Champions of Arden. Events occur during Oberon’s reign, when Amber begins its rise to greatness.

Characters:

100pt characters; details on Powers from the GM.

Players:

1. Alan W (GM)
2. Sean S
3. Ivo K
4. Thom dJ
5. George K (Returning)
6. Willem-Jan W

Game 3/4: The Elders the World Forgot

GM: Paul J
Cast: 5-7
System: ADRPG

Description:

It is many years before the events recounted in Corwin’s chronicles. Indeed, Corwin is still long missing, and Oberon vanished a while ago, not to mention certain other family members, most notably Osric, Finndo, Delwin, and Sand. But there were others never mentioned in Corwin’s later account….

Characters:

Player characters are children of Oberon built on 125 points plus Pattern for free. No advanced powers are available, and nothing associated with the Primal Pattern nor the other, currently unknown, end of reality: so no Logrus nor shapeshift either (or any Shadow Knight stuff). No single item may cost more than 5 points, though you can have as many items as you like. I might be persuaded to allow a minor (10 point) power that is not part of the usual rules if it amuses me but don’t bank on it. No player character may be the child of a mother recognised in the official lineage. Players are free to allocate themselves a mother of their own design (no stats needed, merely a name and, perhaps, a vague description), or have the GM allocate you one. It makes no difference really, as your mother is probably dead anyway.

Players:

1. Paul J (GM)
2. Alastair J
3. Claire M
4. Esther vR
5. Rachel W
6. Robert C
7. Scott S

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Saturday – Morning Game

(9am – 5pm)

Game 4/1: The Seven and a Half Deaths of Evelyn Flaumel

GM: Rachel W
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

Characters:

No pre-con prep required. There’ll be a short questionnaire at the beginning of the game.

Players:

1. Rachel W (GM)
2. Anna J
3. David M
4. Paul J
5. Treasa M
6. Tym N
7. Willem-Jan W

Game 4/2: All good things….

GM: Jason P
Cast: 5-7
System: ADRPG

Description:

Characters:

Players:

1. Jason P (GM)
2. Alan W
3. Alastair J (Returning)
4. Edith B (Returning)
5. Marieke K (Returning)
6. Matthew B (Returning)
7. Scott S (Returning)
8. Vivek D (Returning)

Game 4/3: Nine Princes in IKEA

GM: Sean S
Cast: 4-6 Players
System: ADRPG

Description:

The Throne of Amber has been stolen and a flatpack shoe cabinet left in its place. Markings on it suggest that it has come from a place called ‘IKEA’ in one of the less interesting Shadows of Amber. King Oberon has sent for his finest troubleshooters to solve the problem, but unfortunately they all died in terrible boating accident, so he’s sent for the backup team. They are tasked with finding the thieves from the Kingdom of IKEA and returning the throne at once!

Characters:

A light-hearted romp through everyone’s favourite Swedish furniture store. Players: 4-6.

Players:

1. Sean S (GM)
2. Claire M
3. Ester vR
4. Ivo K
5. Mel M
6. Sally P
7. Thom dJ

Game 4/4: Before the Dawn

GM: Shadow A
Cast: 6-8
System: ADRPG

Description:

Before the Dawn will follow the adventures of several intrepid scions of Chaos who have left the Courts together each for their own reasons.

Characters:

I expect that there will be multiple character deaths; a player whose character dies will have a choice of ways to continue to play – for example as a new character that is about to become significant to the story.

All characters will be pre-generated. Initial characters will be circulated shortly before the con; they will all be younger members of House Barriman out to seek fame, glory, a quiet life or just some fun. If there’s a particular motivation you fancy, let me know – but don’t get too attached to the character…

Players:

1. Shadow A (GM)
2. George K
3. Keith M
4. Kevin D
5. Natalie A
6. Robert C

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Saturday – Evening Game

(7pm – Late)

Game 5/1: It was this way when we found it

GM: Anna J
Cast: 4-8
System: Diceless

Description:

The cry of any self-respecting St Mary’s historian in response to a multitude of questions including – what happened here?  are you responsible for the damage to the rear lawn?  what is that strange smell emanating from pod three? – but not normally applied to history itself (even by the admittedly disaster prone faculty of the St Mary’s Institute for Historical Research).  The newly appointed director of St Mary’s – Dr Maxwell – has designed the perfect in-and-out mission to test out the latest batch of newly qualified trainees.  A quick jaunt to 1613 to see the King’s Men perform Cardenio, establish its authorship and if at all possible track down a copy.  What could possibly go wrong?

Characters:

Players can be security personnel or historians (both will be going on the mission) – please design an appropriate background accordingly – those familiar with the St Mary’s Institute may wish to design more senior staff to accompany any newly qualified trainees.  No points, no system, but lots of tea and biscuits.

Players:

1. Anna J (GM)
2. Alan W
3. David M
4. Edith B
5. Treasa M
6. Vivek D

Game 5/2: Amber 2020

GM: Matthew B
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

Characters:

Players:

1. Matthew B (GM)
2. Esther vR
3. George K
4. Natalie A
5. Paul J
6. Scott S
7. Shadow A
8. Thom dJ

Game 5/3: Pax Britannica

GM: Alastair J
Cast: 6
System: Diceless/Cinematic

Description:

If you don’t do stupid things, you won’t end up in tragedy.  – Chinese Proverb

Lord M has the team heading off to The East to find what will hopefully be the last missing piece of whatever it is they’re collecting. Needless to say it’s not going to be easy. Well, the current Miao rebellion is a slight inconvenience, it has to be said.  And they’re not alone which could make life a tad interesting. But not to worry; Lord M’s team has been tasked to complete the operation with “a certain degree of secrecy and tact”. So there shouldn’t be anything to worry about, right?

Huzzah!

Characters:

It is the year 1872 and Britain is riding high with its technology and
industry delivering advances in military prowess as well as for the economy. The power of steam, advances in clockwork and creation of difference engines have delivered not just economic changes but also social and environmental ones too, even resulting in flight. But there is no room for complacency though as other countries and empires seek opportunities to advance their various causes usually at the cost of others.

For various reasons which are unique to each character, you are working for the Government, in particular Viscount Lord Melbourne (nephew of the Queen’s first PM). You have been chosen because of your exceptional if not unique abilities and prowess which Lord M, as he is affectionately referred to, puts to use when awkward complications arise.

Although this is a continuation game, new players are very welcome.

Players:

1. Alastair J (GM)
2. Claire M (Returning)
3. Jason P (Returning)
4. Keith M (Returning)
5. Marieke K (Returning)
6. Mel M (Returning)
7. Sally P (Returning)
8. Sean S (Returning)

Game 5/4: Those Dead but Dreaming – Black Key White Sands

GM: Gary B
Cast: 4-6
System: Lords of Gossamer and Shadow

Description:

No blood can be spilt on the white sands of Pu’uloa, a place of great beauty, a haven of healing and rejuvenation. The islanders are naturally healthy and long-lived as a consequence and many Walkers sojourn in the mansions of the whites sands to recuperate their physical or mental injuries. The waters are pure and the weather almost permanently clement. A true paradise. However, an artefact of foul intent has been brought to Pu’uloa which threatens to corrupt and twist the minds of its once peaceful inhabitants. Three men who carried the key to the idyllic archipelago world have died at their hands. Agents of the Lords and Ladies of Gossamer have been dispatched to this important world to defend it and to find the source of the evil behind the Black Key.

Characters:

You are an agent of one of the Lords or Ladies of Gossamer. The Black Key is clearly a powerful artefact of a dark power yet unseen. Has your Lord sent you to retrieve it for further study or to destroy it? Can the corrupting nature of the key be prevented or turned against the enemy?

Players:

1. Gary B (GM)
2. Ivo K
3. Kevin D
4. Rachel W
5. Robert C
6. Tym N
7. Willem-Jan W

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Sunday – Morning Game

(9am – 5pm)

Game 6/1: Wake Up, Blandings!

GM: Mel M
Cast: 10 – 12
System:

The game is a crossover between Amber and the novels of PG Wodehouse, e, set in the Wodehousian universe, with elements of the thrillers of the 1930s – Dornford Yates, Sapper, John Buchan and Bulldog Drummond. The system is a variant of the Gentlemen and Players rules, created by Timothy Ferguson (see http://timothyferguson.wordpress.com/ephemera/amber/gentlemen-and-players/). Full notes will be supplied.

Description:

Your Great Aunt Harla lived in a decaying (what else?) mansion in Ireland with her two children, Delwin and Sand. She has, sadly, recently died … and for some reason Uncle Caine feels you should represent the Family at the funeral (and, of course, the all-important Wake). It’s prime hunting country, by the way. In fact, according to rumour, that was the end of Great Aunt Harla. Mounted on a spirited bay she took a hedge not realizing there was a ditch the other side. Still, at 87, it was probably the way she would have chosen to go. Uncle Caine will have a special mission for some of you … and Tom Travers is earnestly asking for a Word (Ireland is, of course, famous for its dairy products. And its Georgian silver).

Characters:

100 point characters. The characters are children of the Blandings version of Amberites (except that Fiona and Flora are Aunts). Mirelle and Random Threepwood are too young to have adult children, so also out. People who have played this game at ACUK – it’s intended to be a side game, not a part of the ongoing main story (although they are becoming rather entwined). You can play your usual character, or create a new one for this game.

Players:

1. Mel M (GM)
2. Alan W (Returning)
3. Alastair J (Returning)
4. Anna J (Returning)
5. Claire M (Returning)
6. Edith B
7. Jason P (Returning)
8. Marieke K (Returning)
9. Sean S (Returning)
10. Tym N (Returning)
11. Vivek D (Returning)

Game 6/3: Hamelin

GM: Kevin D
Cast: 4-7
System: ADRPG or LoGaS

Description:

The sleepy town on the outskirts of Arden known as Hamelin is no more!  In its place a thriving trading community and at the centre of it all, the virtuous, the magnanimous, the ever faithful… Trusty John!  (Trusty John, Trusty John….)   Well, maybe it isn’t exactly Trusty John’s doing, but it must surely be his statue that has brought prosperity and good will to the town – something it’s mayor will be ever grateful for.

Unbeknown to many though, a garrison of Julian’s woodsmen has taken up residence in Hamelin… why you ask?   Better not know.  Unless of course, you listen to the rumours and, of course, you do.  You see, apparently there’s some sort of passage under the statue… that leads to… somewhere in shadow and they’re guarding it!  Amazing.   Then of course there’s the missing few.   Apparently Goldie Locks has gone missing… again.  The Three Bears have a reward out for her ‘safe’ return.   There’s a Prince in town apparently looking for a certain Princess and her skillet… and a wolf pack prowls the forest’s edge… who knows why.  Regardless, there’s something odd happening in Hamelin.

Of course, those in the know will know the truth!   What?   You don’t know?  Well… that’ll cost you.   Baked goods you say?   A tankard of the Old Inn’s finest?   Excellent!   Let’s begin…

• Contributions can include:
  • 10 – For an image of your good self  to share with the company.  A picture does, after all, tell a thousand words.
  • 10 – For a suitably convoluted background within the realms of a fairy tale (or indeed Gossamer) of your choice (though the more well known the tale, the better!)
  • 10 – Baked goods and vitals to share – Little Red Riding hood was not the only young lady who knew how to bribe her grandmother!

Players:

1. Kevin D (GM)
2. George K (Returning)
3. Keith M
4. Scott S
5. Shadow A (Returning)
6. Ivo K
7. Robert C

Game 6/4: A Trip to the Seaside

GM: Paul J
System: Modified ADRPG

Description:

Fable, the daughter of Mandor and Princess Florimel, is now 12, and going stir crazy after a year bottled up in Castle Amber. She needs a holiday. And who better to take her on a trip to the seaside on florimel’s favourite shadow, than the Princess’s favourite servants? But when a massive shadow-storm cuts off all contact between Shadow-Earth and Amber, and the body count starts to rise, can those same servants really protect the young princess from being the next victim?

Characters:

This game is a sequel to last year’s A Family Secret, and returning players, as well as new ones, will be welcome. Time-wise, a year has passed since the events of last year’s game.  Characters are servants of the castle based on 0 points and generated according to rules set out by the GM and sent out prior to the Con, though they are primarily based on regular Amber rules with a few minor tweaks. Last year, the characters were based on -10 points, returning players will, therefore, have another 10 points to spend this time.

Players:

1. Paul J (GM)
2. Natlie A (Returning)
3. Rachel W
4. Sally P (Returning)
5. Thom dJ
6. Willem-Jan W

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Sunday – Evening Game

(7pm – Late)

Game 7/1: Dragons over Amethyst

GM: Natalie A
Cast: 4-7
System: Modified ADRPG

Description:

The fair city of Amethyst is the jewel in the crown of the Amethyst Trade League, ruled from the Glass Palace from Prince Martin; who has summoned you all out of Shadow for what he calls a coming of age ceremony.

In the days running up to the ceremony he explains that the multiverse you’ve known all your life is actually just a small corner of a much larger set of Shadows centred on a location known as Amber; and that he is going to give you keys to enter and exit the realms of Amethyst into the wider multiverse at the ceremony.

However preparations for the ceremony itself are disturbed by multiple sightings of Dragons in the skies over Amethyst and the Trade League of unknown origin which flicker in and out of shadows in a way quite unlike the Patternwalking to which you are used.

Prince Martin will ask you to investigate while he calms down the local populace and prepares for what may come.  He will give you the most basic of further briefing about Amber and the keys that he promised.

(This game will be strategically oriented, so the answers are more likely to be “investigate, plan, engage” than “hit it with my sword”.
It is in the same setting, and after, my game from 2018 – The Track Not Taken; but not in any meaningful sense a continuation)

Characters:

1. Natalie A (GM)
2. Alan W
3. David M
4. Jason P
5. Matthew B
6. Shadow A
7. Paul J
8. Willem-Jan W

Game 7/2: Bring me the Trumps of Alfredo Garcia

GM: Tym N
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

Caine has a problem: His secretary, the delightful Samantha, has gone missing and he would like you to find her. She said that an Italian gentleman friend has promised to take her out for an ice cream, and she likes nothing better than to spend the evening licking the nuts off a large Neapolitan and he hasn’t been seen since.

Characters:

A lighthearted game of investigation and smut for 4-6 players.

Characters: 100pt characters. No Advanced Powers, no Shadowknight, 5pt Stuff limit.

Note:

This game draws heavily on “I’m Sorry I haven’t A Clue” and other Radio 4 comedies and as such will contain a lot of double entendre and innuendo, don’t say you haven’t been warned.   While it isn’t necessary to know about ISIHAC, it might help with the jokes.

Players:

1. Tym N (GM)
2. Mel M
3. Rachel W
4. Robert C
5. Sally P
6. Treasa M

Game 7/3: Burning Coal

GM: Vivek D
Cast: 4-8
System: Burning Coal

Description:

It is the turn of the 19th century: The great imperial powers vie for dominance, fuelled by coal and steered by the industrial combines and their brass-and-steel difference engines:

But not all their conflicts are played out in the open, by displays of military might or commercial conflicts – there are other, more shadowy arenas where the Great Game is also played.

At the heart of the British Empire we find The Ministry (it has a name, officially, on paper – but never speak it. It is always just The Ministry).

Home to the freak, the monster, the superhuman, the undead, the spy, the assassin and the mad scientist* and those simply… less trammeled by ordinary moral considerations.

This means you.

Characters:

Players should pick an archetype or template to build their character on – Mad Scientist*, Monster, Super-spy, Werewolf, Golem, Demon-ridden Sorceress – feel free to plunder any and all of Pulp, Sci-Fi, Fantasy for an idea (or even come up with your own).

That’s who your character is. There should be a reason the ministry would want to employ you – some extraordinary ability, power or skill-set. There should also be a reason you work for the ministry: They might have stayed your execution for a crime (real or framed) in return for your service. Maybe they pay you vast sums of money. Perhaps they are the only source of a drug you need. Or possibly you’re just the right mix of patriotic and amoral that you do it because you want to.

Players:

1. Vivek D (GM)
2. Alastair J
3. Anna J
4. Calire M
5. Edith B
6. Gary B
7. Ivo K
8. Marieke K
9. Sean S

Game 7/4: Where’s my brandy…?

GM: Scott S
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG, No Shadow Knight

Description:

It’s been 20 years since Patternfall.  Random is King and other than a small blip involving a little bit of weather at the start of his reign things are going well.  Or they were.

A drop in trade ships coming into Amber has been noticed.   Goods from deep Shadow are becoming rare and the King’s favourite brandy is down to the last 100 bottles in the castle cellar.  Random wants some answers….

Characters:

Character are children of Amber who are young enough to NOT have fought in Patternfall or been involved.  You WILL have walked the pattern and will be acknowledged as a child of Amber (Random would not pick you for this mission if not)

100 points with pattern for free

Players:

1. Scott S (GM)
2. Esther vR
3. George K
4. Keith M
5. Kevin D
6. Thom dJ

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Monday – Bonus Slot

Game 8/1: Game On!  Hold….

GM: –
Cast: –
System: –

NOTE:

As so few people have signed up for this ‘after-con’ slot, we’re putting it on hold and we’ll possibly play a card game or two while we chat and say our goodbyes.

Description:

An as yet undetermined game for those who will be here until later in the evening.  The slot will probably take the form of a game from 10:30ish to 4:30ish with a break for lunch.

If you’re keen to play during this slot, please sign up here so I can gauge the mood!

Players:

1. –

Game 8/2: Reminisce

Cast: Anyone

Description:

After a looong weekend of gaming, many folk enjoy a ‘quiet’ Monday morning where they can relax and reminisce while waiting to a) wake up b) catch a taxi… rather than focus on playing a game.

If you’re one of those folk, please sign up here so I know what you’re intending doing!

Players:

1. Pretty much everyone…!

NOTE:

The plan is normally to have breakfast, check out, and then take up residence in the Library to chat, reminisce and say our goodbyes! 🙂

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Backup Games

For GMs kind enough to offer ‘extra’ games even though they would prefer to be playing!

Game B/1: VK

GM: Kevin D
Cast: 4 – 6
System: ADRPG or LoGaS

Note:

Moved to ‘Backup’

Description:

School.  What a drag!   And now they’ve gone and announced an exchange programme.   Some of ‘them’ will be joining us.

Can’t stand them?  Neither can we!  We’ll have to get rid of them.   What’s the plan?

Characters:

So who are you?  Looking for 50pt tearaways from either Amber or Chaos (Corwin’s Fenneval?  Or somewhere completely different!) with a grudge, chip on your shoulder or really any reason to dislike the ‘other’ side.

Players:

1. None

Cancelled Games

Due to unforeseen circumstances, these two games had to be cancelled.  Maybe next year! 🙂

Game C/1: An idle brain is the Devil’s workshop

GM: Esther vR
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

There is turmoil in Amber. Everything is disappearing, and not just ordinary things .., no, also very, very personal items are lost. At first it just seemed like an incident. The magic hairbrush from Flora was gone. Flora claimed it was surely stolen, but nobody took her seriously. She just must have misplaced it. But as the week progressed, more and more items disappeared; Fiona’s Book of potions, the lucky socks of Random, but also Bleys’ favourite Spikard and Julian’s well-trained hawk.  It soon became clear that it was the handiwork of a very clever thief and not only the Courts of Amber were his work field. The distinguished gentlemen and ladies from the courts of Chaos also lost a few very cherished things. But who was this bright thief? Where was his lair, and what were his goals….?
In this game, you play a stolen item / animal from an owner of your choice. It is your job to get back to where your owner left you or where he/she preferred to keep you. And if you manage to grab the thief that has stolen you on the process, that is a bonus!

Characters:

You will play a 25 point unique construct, creature or demon that you create yourself as described in Shadowknight. It at least has to be intelligent. Ownership or autonomy is up to you.

Players:

1. Esther vR (GM)
2. Anna J
3. Ivo K
4. Kevin D
5. Mel M
6. Natalie A
7. Shadow A

Game C/2: Samhein Circus

GM: Esther vR
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

It is a cold October evening when six young adolescents find a mysterious glowing envelope on their pillow.  It has their name on it and it is sealed with the symbol of a Unicorn.  Curious, the youngsters all open their envelopes and as they break the seals, glowing portals appear in their bedrooms.  Each envelope also contains a letter urging them to step through and learn the truth about their heritage.

Boring lives set aside, they accept the challenge and step through their portals, finding themselves in a huge room covered with mirrors and they also find out that they were not the only ones who had received an invitation.

A man awaits them dressed in a suit and wearing a top hat and welcomes them with a big grin.

“There you are, my fresh little nuggets. Cup of tea anyone? Are you ready for some adventure? Well step right up!”

Samhein Circus will be a game filled with mystery and puzzles that need to be solved for answers or personal quests.

Characters:

Your characters will be pre-generated. You will be playing an adolescent Amberite aged between 14 and 18 years old.   You will receive a character sheet, background description and a letter addressed to your character.  There are six characters to choose from with different backgrounds available before the convention.

Players:

1. Esther vR (GM)
2. Keith M
3. Kevin D
4. Mel M
5. Scott S
6. Thom dJ

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AmberCon NI 2019

Thursday – Bonus Evening Game

(9pm – 11pm)

Game 1/1: Guilty Until Proven Innocent

GM: Kevin D
Cast: 4-7
System: ADRPG

Description:

Eric leaned forward and whispered to me, “Your eyes have looked upon the fairest sight they will ever hold…Guards! Take Corwin away to the smithy, and let his eyes be burnt from out his head! Let him remember the sights of this day as the last he might ever see! Then cast him into the darkness of the deepest dungeon beneath Amber, and let his name be forgotten!”

With the fall of Prince Corwin, so came your fall…  Welcome to the Dungeons of Amber.

Characters:

So…
1) What were the circumstances of your capture?
2) What crime were you convicted of?
3) Are you innocent? No really, are you innocent?
4) Where are you from and how did you end up in Amber?
5) Who are your Enemies, Friends or Family?
6) Have you ever killed anyone? How did it make you feel?
7) What’s your deepest fear? And your greatest hope?
8) What’s your best memory?
9) What was worst thing they ever did and why?
10) How trusting or suspicious are you?

Characters should be designed using 120pts using ADRPG.

• Contributions can include:
  • 10pts – For an image of your good self  to share.  A picture does, after all, tell a thousand words.
  • 10pts – For answering the above questions with more than just one-work answers!
  • 10pts – Baked goods and vitals to share – you are squirrelling things away in the Dungeons of Amber after all!

Players:

1. Kevin D (GM)
2. Alastair J
3. Anders W
4. Annika O
5. Hanna P
6. Keith M
7. Rachel W
8. Scott S

Game 1/2: A Game of Thrones

GM: Anna J
Cast: 4-8
System: ADRPG

Description:

It’s that time of year again – time to complete against your extended family to gauge whose skills and powers are the strongest – there are several different categories to compete in, including the melee where team participation is required – always an interesting job putting a team together from your blood relatives but then those are the rules…and the extra points from a melee victory are often the different between winning and losing the tournament overall – you’re pretty sure Random designed the scoring that way…sneaky little fink…because only those who have walked the Pattern may participate.  The only other rules are no fatalities (automatic disqualification) and no maimings – well technically no deliberate maimings so that does leave quite a bit of room for manoeuvre…  All in all the annual games are one of your favourite new traditions instituted by King Random.

 

However something different appears to be in the works this year.   Gossip is swirling around that Random has a significant announcement to make at the opening ceremony – no-one knows what exactly but speculation is rife and consequently turn out from your siblings, nieces, nephews and other extended family is likely to be far higher than usual in order to hear the big speech.  Rumour has it that Benedict is even making an appearance although he has apparently ruled himself out as a competitor.

Characters:

150 point characters – you can be anyone living after Patternfall – including previously unknown descendants – except Benedict, Random or Dworkin.  First come first served on characters.  Please explain your reasons for participating in the tournament.

Players:

1. Anna J (GM)
2. Damian F
3. Jonathan A
4. Maria L
5. Fredrik J
6. George K
7. Sara J
8. Shadow A
9. Willem-Jan W
10. Vendela U

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Friday – Morning Game

(11am – 5pm)

Game 2/1: One Way or Another

GM: Anna J
Cast: 4-15
System: ADRPG

Description:

While journeying through shadows on your way to Amber you come across a tavern just as you are starting to feel a hint of hunger and a tinge of thirst.   The food is excellent, the wine distinctly quaffable and as a wave of tiredness sweeps over you you decide this would be a comfortable spot to rest for the night before continuing your journey…

…When you wake the first thing you are aware of are the sounds of a few familiar voices also coming to.  Opening your eyes groggily you realise you are somewhere else entirely.  A featureless windowless room made of plastic and metal.  There are two doors at opposite ends and no furniture.  In fact the only thing in the room are several of your close relations all in the process of getting to their feet and looking equally surprised to be there.   You compare notes and find you all have similar stories about how you got here.  You’re also aware of an odd sensation The question now is where are you and which way is out?

Characters:

150 point characters.  Please include a summary of what you were doing in shadow before your abduction.

Players:

1. Anna J (GM)
2. Alan W
3. Alastair J
4. Anders W
5. Annika O
6. Damian F
7. Fredrik J
8. George K
9. Hanna P
10. Keith M
11. Kevin D
12. Maria L
13. Rachel W
14. Scott S
15. Vedela U
16. Willem-Jan W

Game 2/2: Bring Your Own Weather

GM: Shadow A
Cast: 3-12
System: 5th Ed D&D with Pre-Gen characters!  Yes, there will be dice, silliness and a Random Encounter Table!

Coordinator’s Note:  This game is ideal for folk arriving later in morning/early afternoon!

Description:

Once upon a time, long before the events documented in the Chronicles, Florimel organised a picnic in Arden…

Characters:

Players will select one of the following pre-generated characters as they arrive, from those available at that time:

Deirdre (Barbarian)
Random (Bard)
Corwin (Cleric)
Llewella (Druid)
Eric (Fighter)
Gerard (Monk)
Benedict (Paladin)
Julian (Ranger)
Caine (Rogue)
Bleys (Sorcerer)
Brand (Warlock)
Fiona (Wizard)

Players:

1. Shadow A (GM)
2. Claire M
3. Danielle B
4. Jason P
5. Jonathan A
6. Marieke K
7. Paul J
8. Mel M
9. Sally P
10. Sara J

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Friday – Evening Game

(7pm to Late)

Game 3/1: A Family Secret

GM: Paul J
Cast: 5-7
System: ADRPG

Description:

Princess Florimel has a guilty secret.  Now she needs those royal servants she trusts, especially those who helped her a year ago, to sort it out for her, without alerting the rest of the royal family, or indeed anyone else.   

This game is a sequel to last year’s Downstairs Downstairs, and returning players, as well as new ones, will be welcome.  Timewise, a year has passed since Patternfall and the events of last year’s game. Castle Amber is safe, but an altogether more suspicious place, but then you will be leaving it for the first time in your lives…

Characters are servants of the castle based on -10 points and generated according to rules set out by the GM and sent out prior to the Con, though they are primarily based on regular Amber rules with a few minor tweaks.  Last year, the characters were based on -20 points, returning players will, therefore, have another 10 points to spend this time

Characters:

–

Players:

1. Paul J (GM)
2. Alastair J (R)
3. Jonathan A (R)
4. Rachel W (R)
5. Sally P (R)
6. Scott S
7. Shadow A
8. Willem-Jan W (R)

Game 3/2: Holding out for a Hero

GM: Keith M
Cast: 4-7
System: Simplified ADRPG

Description:

Where have all the good men gone
And where are all the gods?
Where’s the streetwise Hercules to fight the rising odds?
Isn’t there a white knight upon a fiery steed?

You are the best in all the land. Stories of your deeds have become legend. Every bar knows your name. Your counsel is sought by the greatest rulers. Your opinion changes fashion. You could have anything and anyone you
desire. You are loved by millions and feared by all that might try and oppose you. No task is too hard for you.   Until perhaps today…

You are the preeminent hero of your Shadow/Land. The greatest gunfighter, the most wise wizard, the deadliest swordsman, the most noble starship captain, the most loved superhero, the most honest politician. Whatever
profession or calling you have chosen you are without peer.   Then one day a travel weary man arrives. He is battered and bruised but there is something about him that makes you want to trust him, help him. He arrives at your favourite tavern, library, bowling alley, coffee shop etc.
Like many people he needs your help. Unlike other people he says that you need help. He has scoured the whole of Reality for others to help. The stakes are bigger than any you have faced because it is your Reality that is at
risk. Being the Hero that you are you agree to aid him and once you have collected your things and done your preparations he Teleports you both away in a rainbow of colours. You arrive in a rustic tavern and the man,
Merlin, introduces you to your new companions.

People that you have never heard of but are also really good at stuff.  People that you have never met but, like Merlin, you almost feel you already know, people that you vaguely remember in your dreams. It made no sense as you grew up and became – hero but perhaps now it might.

Characters:

You are the best. You are the lands best hero. But heroes come in many shapes and guises. Describe your character and a little background. Detail any important items as to what they look like and what they can do.
What are the four things that your hero is known for being exceptional at. Dagger fighting, Luck, Prodigious Strength, Fireballs, Flight, Sarcasm, Always finding a great beer, Crossword solver, etc. Whatever it is you are the best at it in your land.

Players:

1. Keith M (GM)
2. Kevin D
3. Vivek D
4. Gary B
5. Anders W
6. Fredrik J
7. Hanna P
8. Anna J

Game 3/3: For In That Sleep of Death What Dreams May Come

GM: Alan W
Cast: 6-8
System: ADRPG

Description:

…the wind cries of late
In the whispering grass
Our way of life is held
In the spinning wheels of chance
I believe in a way of long ago
…Tell me more about the forest
That you once called home.

(Dead Can Dance)

King Oberon has returned to Amber and creation holds its breath. With one hand on the Jewel of Judgement he proclaims:

“Arden will return my sons or face the hammer that has pounded Shadow and Chaos to my will. Know this: where the blow falls there will be no mercy and no hiding place.”

Characters:

Characters are denizens of Arden. Events occur during Oberon’s reign, when Amber begins its rise to greatness. Details on Powers from the GM.

100pt characters; Constructs developed with the Shadow Knight rules will be considered if submitted before the Con.

Players:

1. Alan W (GM)
2. Damian F
3. George K
4. Jason P
5. Maria L
6. Marieke K
7. Vendela U

Game 3/4: The Hand in the Library

GM: Mel M
Cast: 4-6
System: Bespoke Diceless

Description:

Long, long ago, the Library was the repository of all knowledge. Then it was overtaken by a terrible disaster as a vast monstrous Hand forced its way up from deep below the earth into the heart of the Library, tearing and twisting and destroying. And the Electomages saved us all. It was they who held the Hand at bay, locking it in a state of stasis, and they saved the world by sealing the entire Library in a vast bubble, sustained by the power of electromancy. But they – and those who used the LIbrary – were trapped inside the bubble with the grotesque Hand.

Or so the story goes …

For there are others who say that the Electromages, with their dangerous experiments, awoke the beast that lived deep underground and brought him into the Library, roaring for revenge. There are even a few who claim that the Hand was reaching out in an effort to prevent the Electomages from destroying the world.

Over the years, a society has evolved in the Library from the descendants of the original librarians, electromages and library-goers. Most people live in the vast Stacks, turning the reading carels into homes. A powerful few (the Electromages and the families of the hereditary Ruling Council) live on the Heights in the tops of the towers of the Library, where they can benefit from the light that comes in from the opaque dome.

Now the rumours say that the Electromages have a plan to boost power and restore the Library to the world again.

But what effect will that have on the Hand, still trapped as it clawed its way up through the Library?

Characters:

You are living in the Library. Your family may be from the Heights (the aristocracy) or the Stacks (everyone else).

Players:

1. Mel M (GM)
2. Annika O
3. Claire M
4. Danielle B
5. Sara Johansson

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Saturday – Morning Game

(9am – 5pm)

Game 4/1: Prophecy

GM: Anna J
Cast: 4-7
System: LoGaS

Description:

Characters:

Players:

1. Anna J (GM)
2. Anders W
3. Alan W
4. Damian F
5. George K
6. Paul J
7. Willem-Jan W

You were going about your normal every day life when you heard the scream… and the sky cracked open. Overcome with waves of vertigo and nausea, you staggered to the nearest wall for support, only to realise that no-one else seemed to have head the cry.  Or noticed that the sky was broken.

Nobody else seemed to feel the pull, either. The calling, as some vast and sudden emptiness tugged at you, drawing you towards… what?

Game 4/4: LIVE EVIL: Harvest Moon

GM: Marieke K
Cast: 4-5
System: ADRPG

Description:

Welcome to Lybrook, OR population 815.  There is a main street, a small theatre, a grocery store, a library, everything you need to survive except modern conveniences (the only deliveries that happen here seem to be from someone else in town and the internet? What is that?)  In Lybrook, they keep up with the local news through the town’s paper.

As far as the PCs know, they have been raised here.  There might be something gnawing at you, though, some idea that something is different from how it should be.  But the daily life in Lybrook goes on, and soon it will be time for the Harvest Festival.  There will be a great deal of good cheer and forced celebration.

Are you under a ‘good curse’?  Maybe you like it here in Lybrook. Maybe you think freedom of choice would be a nice change.  Survive and thrive in Lybrook with good cheer, or escape and get justice–well revenge at least against whatever parent put you under this terrible curse.

This is your chance to tell your story, to get your happy ending, or to wreck one.

Characters:

Characters are the children of an elder Amberite and a Disney Villain, with some reason in their past to have been cursed even if that is ‘good intentions’.  Please send me a description of your character, including:

• • Preferred parentage

• • Your occupation/role/place in Lybrook and your feelings about these

• • Your hopes and dreams, do you want to leave Lybrook?  Do you think this isn’t really all that bad?

• And a reason why you could have been cursed – if your life had not always been in Lybrook.  What if you were raised in Amber instead, why would someone have cursed you?

A public description would be nice as well, as you have lived in this same small town all your lives.  You probably know each other, and will have reasons to like or dislike each other (maybe even both!).

NOTE 1: Please note that due to RL I will not be available for prep until January 23!

NOTE 2: This story is originally Mary Argent’s idea and has been used with her permissions.

NOTE 3: We’ll probably start a bit later than expected – so we can all enjoy a longer breakfast/short lie-in!

Players:

1. Marieke K (GM)
2. Alastair J
3. Danielle B
4. Jason P
5. Keith M
6. Mel M

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Saturday – Evening Game

(7pm – Late)

Game 5/1: Monochrome

GM: Alan W
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

“They’re dancing around
It sends a shiver down my spine
I run to look in the sky and
I half expect to hear them asking to come down
Will they fly or will they fall?”

(The Sundays)

Did the Collapse ever happen? What happened to the Dream? And why has a fleet of alien spacecraft appeared to orbit the Earth with quiet menace?

Characters:

A sequel to “This Woman’s Work” (and its prequels), new and returning players welcome. Characters are from a future Shadow Earth, specialists in their chosen field. No points required, just a description.
Details provided by the GM.

Players:

1. Alan W (GM)
2. Annika O
3. Gary B
4. Paul J
5. Sara J
6. Willem-Jan W

Game 5/2: Madness in the shadow of the Rising Sun

GM: Jason P
Cast: 5-7
System: –

Description:

The year is 1935, and we return to where it all began, Hong Kong.. It is New Year and among the celebrations, the sky is briefly lit by a new light, a silvery coloured meteorite streaking northwards as it falls, A local and infamous fortune teller is preaching that new object is one of ill omen to anyone one who would listen, nothing new in that. However next morning the fortune teller is found dead, and local authorities need help to investigate the death and it seems there is more than one group interested in his death.

Characters:

Characters are exceptional Shadow dwellers, heroes and heroines typical of those found in pulp action fiction, and have a reason to be in Hong Kong.   A modified character system is being used and I will send details to players once the games have been allocated. New Players and Returning players from previous years I’ve run at ACNI are welcome,

Players:

1. Jason P (GM)
2. Anders W
3. Danielle B
4. Jonathan A
5. Maria L
6. Marieke K
7. Shadow A
8. Vivek D

Game 5/3: Pax Britannica

GM: Alastair J
Cast: 6
System: –

Description: 

Pax Britannica (Latin for “British Peace”) is the period of relative peace in Europe and the world (1815 – the present) during which the British Empire has become the global hegemonic power and has adopted the role of a global police force.

We look forward to the time when the Power of Love will replace the Love of Power. Then will our world know the blessings of peace.

William Ewart Gladstone, PM

It is the year 1872 and Britain is riding high with its technology and industry delivering advances in military prowess as well as for the economy. The power of steam, advances in clockwork and creation of difference engines have delivered not just economic changes but also social and environmental ones too, even resulting in flight. But there is no room for complacency though as other countries and empires seek opportunities to advance their various causes usually at the cost of others.

Characters:

For various reasons which are unique to each character, you are working for the Government, in particular Viscount Lord Melbourne (nephew of the Queen’s first PM). You have been chosen because of your exceptional if not unique abilities and prowess which Lord M, as he is affectionately referred to, puts to use when complications arise that “require a certain degree of secrecy and tact”.  You will be briefed on your mission by Lord M on a strictly need-to-know basis.  Huzzah!

Although this is a continuation game, new players are very welcome.

Players:

1. Alastair J (GM)
2. Claire M
3. Fredrik J
4. Mel M
5. Keith M
6. Sally P
7. Vendela U

Game 5/4: Divided We Fall (aka the Corwin Conundrum)

GM: Rachel W
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

A few years post-Patternfall, Corwin is suddenly taken ill, and his siblings refuse to go near him. Perhaps they fear becoming infected, but then again none of the servants are sick, so perhaps there’s some other reason. The Royal Physician, who is unable to find any underlying physical cause for the illness, and having received no help from the Elders, approaches the next generation of the Royal family for assistance.

Characters:

Children of the Elder Amberites, with some interest in investigating Corwin’s illness (potentially in defiance of your parents wishes). GM will assign parentage but feel free to state a preference. Standard ADRPG rules, 100 point characters plus free Pattern. Each character should create a pet, minion or assistant of some kind using the item building rules.

Players:

1. Rachel W (GM)
2. Anna J
3. Damian F
4. George K
5. Hanna P
6. Kevin D
7. Scott S

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Sunday – Morning Game

(9am – 5pm)

Game 6/1: Blandings and the City of Lights

GM: Mel Mason
Cast: 6 – 10
System: The game is a crossover between Amber and the novels of PG Wodehouse, e, set in the Wodehousian universe, with elements of the thrillers of the 1930s – Dornford Yates, Sapper, John Buchan and Bulldog Drummond. The system is a variant of the Gentlemen and Players rules, created by Timothy Ferguson (see http://timothyferguson.wordpress.com/ephemera/amber/gentlemen-and-players/). Full notes will be supplied.

Description:

It’s springtime in Paris, a time when designers are frantically readying their new collections – and the wealthy pour in to the city to see the new fashions, and be seen too – in their most glamorous outfits and wearing their most exquisite jewels. But there’s another side to Paris too – a different form of society composed of artists, writers and musicians. The two worlds might come into contact at the famed musical extravangzas or those clubs were the jazz is hot and there is an edge of danger …

To Paris, then, some of the Blandings crowd will be going. It’s up to you what draws you there … but with Uncle Corwin on the loose (and possibly trying to sell his memoirs), and Aunt Fiona in evidence at the fashion shows, it’s clear something is in the wind.

And then you receive an unsigned note, informing you that a room has been reserved for you at the Monteleone (a famously discreet but stunning hotel near the Opera).

People who have played this game at ACUK – it is to some extent a side game, not a part of the main ongoing story. You can play your usual character, or create a new one for this game.

Characters:

100 point characters. The characters are children of the Blandings version of Amberites (except that Fiona and Flora are Aunts). Mirelle and Random Threepwood are too young to have adult children, so also out.

Players:

1. Mel M (GM)
2. Alan W (R)
3. Alastair J
4. Anna J
5. Claire M (R)
6. Jason P (R)
7. Marieke K (R)
8. Maria L
9. Rachel W (R)
10. Scott S (R)
11. Vivek D (R)

Game 6/2: Incursion Earth 626

GM: Paul J
Cast:  5-7
System: LoGaS

Description:

The Grand Stair may or may not be infinite.  It is certainly unbelievably long. If you travel it enough you come to recognise that there may be nearly an infinite number of Earth-worlds, each one similar but different from the next.  Their numbering accords with the order in which they were first visited and recorded by Lucien. Lucien was also the first to record the stories of the legendary Incursion: technocratic overlords given to invading gossamer worlds, draining their resources and enslaving the inhabitants.  The Gossamer Lords had successfully pushed back earlier incarnations of the Incursion, but Lord Drake remains ever watchful. Now he believes that they are back, and that Earth 626 has been an initial target. So he is sending a small team of his best agents and/or specialists to infiltrate and find out what has been happening and what action needs to be taken (and, perhaps, taking it).

Characters:

Player characters should be built on 80 points using normal LoGaS rules (plus Walker of the Grand Stair for free – worth 5 points of Grand Stair), but partial power system is available, and recommended.  Channelling and Invocation are not available, nor are items with conferred powers.

For agents of Lord Drake the usual powers are available: Eidolon, Umbra, Wrighting, Grand Stair, Wrighting, Sorcery, and Cantrips. Other powers only by agreement with the GM.  Partial powers can be provided by the GM.

Up to two player characters (first come first served) may be members of a local team assigned to aid Drake’s people.  These Earthers have only one power available to them: Psionics. Details of this power will be provided to the players concerned, but you should budget for spending a minimum of 30 points on it.

This adventure uses the LoGaS supplement: Incursion Earth 626 as a setting only.  Familiarity/ unfamiliarity with that will be neither advantage nor disadvantage as it is a setting not an adventure.  You will be briefed by Drake on what you need to know (Earthers by their local leader).

Players:

1. Paul J (GM)
2. Damian F
3. Fredrik J
4. Gary B
5. George K
6. Keith M
7. Kevin D
8. Sara J

Game 6/3: Last Exit to Babylon

GM: Jonathan A
Cast: 4-7
System: Low-powered modified LoGaS

Description:

Characters:

1. Jonathan A (GM)
2. Anders W
3. Annika O
4. Hanna P
5. Shadow A
6. Vendela U
7. Willem-Jan W
8. Danielle B

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Sunday – Evening Game

(7pm – Late)

Game 7/1: The Many Faces of Merlin

GM: Rachel W
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

In his search for his father, Merlin walks Corwin’s pattern. On the other side, he meets several other people also claiming to be Merlin.

Characters:

Characters are Merlin. 100 points plus free Pattern and Logrus.

Players:

1. Rachel W (GM)
2. Keith M
3. Kevin D
4. George K
5. Jonathan A
6. Mel M
7. Paul J

Game 7/2: CSI Thelbane

GM: Shadow A
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

Characters:

Players:

1. Shadow A (GM)
2. Alan W
3. Damian F
4. Danielle B
5. Jason P
6. Sally P

Game 7/3: Burning Coal

GM: Vivek D
Cast: 4-8
System: Burning Coal

Description:

It is the turn of the 19th century: The great imperial powers vie for dominance, fuelled by coal and steered by the industrial combines and their brass-and-steel difference engines:

But not all their conflicts are played out in the open, by displays of military might or commercial conflicts – there are other, more shadowy arenas where the Great Game is also played.

At the heart of the British Empire we find The Ministry (it has a name, officially, on paper – but never speak it. It is always just The Ministry).

Home to the freak, the monster, the superhuman, the undead, the spy, the assassin and the mad scientist* and those simply… less trammeled by ordinary moral considerations.

This means you.

Characters:

Players should pick an archetype or template to build their character on – Mad Scientist*, Monster, Super-spy, Werewolf, Golem, Demon-ridden Sorceress – feel free to plunder any and all of Pulp, Sci-Fi, Fantasy for an idea (or even come up with your own).

That’s who your character is. There should be a reason the ministry would want to employ you – some extraordinary ability, power or skill-set. There should also be a reason you work for the ministry: They might have stayed your execution for a crime (real or framed) in return for your service. Maybe they pay you vast sums of money. Perhaps they are the only source of a drug you need. Or possibly you’re just the right mix of patriotic and amoral that you do it because you want to.

Players:

1. Vivek D (GM)
2. Alastair J
3. Claire M
4. Anna J
5. Gary B
6. Marieke K
7. Scott S
8. Willem-Jan W

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Monday – Bonus Slot

Game 8/1: Pot Luck

GM: Anyone.  Just meet in the Library!
Cast: Anyone who’s awake enough to participate!
System: Unknown

Description:

Most folk are unsurprisingly burnt out by this stage but we do tend to gather in the Library and chat and who knows, there may still be some energy left to get something on the boil.  Sign up here for both the chance to chat and the possibility of more!

And if folk are SUPER keen, I could be persuaded to run Order 66 (See the backup games section!)

Players:

1. Alan W
2. Alastair J
3. Anna J
4. Claire M
5. Damian F
6. Fiona J
7. Jason P
8. Kevin D
9. Marieke K
10. Paul J
11. Rachel W
12. Sally P

Game 8/2: Mouseguard

GM: Jonathan A
Cast: As many as want….
System: Amber Mouseguard

Description:

In honour of Matthew, Jonathan is offering us a taste of Mouseguard.   Description and info to follow….

Characters:

–

Players:

1. Jonathan A (GM)
2. Danielle B
3. Gary B
4. George K
5. Keith M
6. Mel M
7. Shadow A
8. Scott S
9. Willem-Jan W

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Backup Games

For GMs kind enough to offer ‘extra’ games even though they would prefer to be playing!

Game B/1: Order 66, a fresh start

GM: Kevin D
Cast: 4-7
System: LoGaS

Description:

So we know the story and we know the outcome.  But what we didn’t know was who we really were.  As far as we knew, we were students in the Jedi Temple on Coruscant and somehow… we survived.   Despite all the odds, we survived.

In fear and hiding, we had the oddest of day dreams, dreams or possibly even nightmares:

You see an older man wearing odd though formal attire who is now halo’d in a rainbow of reflective colour.   Despite your sleep you feel that it has an oddly realistic feel to it and despite the setting you find yourself struggling to listen as he speaks, “My Son, my Daughter.  I unfortunately can’t come to you right now.   You need to make your way to me.  Find your siblings and make your way to Chambers of the High Council.   I’ll leave more for you when you get there.

The rest of the dream (possibly nightmare) continues on and you wake remembering it clearly.

Characters:

Character are LoGaS newbies running with 50pts.

Players:

1. Kevin D (GM)
2. –
3. –
4. –
5. –
6. –
7. –
8. –

Game B/2: The Morning After the Night Before

GM: Anna J
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

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Cancelled Games

For games that sadly had to be cancelled.  Saved here in the hope of the games being run at some future point!

Game X/1: Usagi Amberite

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AmberCon NI 2018

Thursday – Bonus Evening Game

(9pm – 11pm)

Game 1/1: All Bar None (aka Pot Luck)

GM: Kevin D
Cast: Anyone interested….
System: Unknown

Description:

This will be the first time I try a ‘Pre-Con’ game prior to the already ‘Pre-Con’ Friday morning game that has now become a standard offering!   Considering how many people are flying in early, there’s actually a chance folk may want to gather, share stores, play a game or two of cards, Hearthstone or settle for actually playing something.

Regardless, I’ll be there and if you’re keen on joining, please sign up for this slot and state your preference for what you’d like to do!  Chilling and chatting after your flight is a perfectly viable option – but then so is getting a head start on the you con kill count!

Update:

By the seems of it, most folk attending Pot Luck voted for a natter at the bar!

Players:

1. Kevin D
2. Alastair J
3. Dave C
4. Fiona J
5. Jonathan A
6. Matthew B
7. Rob Israel
8. Tym Norris

Game 1/2: A Midsummer Night’s Scream

GM: Carsten D
Cast: Anyone interested….
System: ADRPG

Description:

The courts of chaos are in an uproar. Suhuy, master of the Logrus, did not wake from his last slumber and no one has a clue what is going on. The King of Chaos in his desperation sends a demon messenger to Amber with an offering for a truce and a call for help. Now some family members, who are quiet familiar with all kinds of theories concerning shadow, have to face the fact that this might be true for material worlds – but not for the mysterious realm of the Dreaming. With the aid of a strange wizard they enter the realm beyond the walls of the wakening worlds and face a danger far greater than they would ever expect.

Characters:

Pre-generated classic Amberites will be provided, so players don’t have to build their characters.

Players:

1. Carsten D (GM)
2. Anna J
3. Elizabeth B
4. Jocelyn B
5. Keith M
6. Mark N
7. Rachel W
8. Stephen Z

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Friday – Morning Game

(11am – 5pm)

Game 2/1: Spares

GM: Matthew B
Cast: 3+ and it will handle drop-ins when you get to the hotel!
System: ADRPG

Description:

You have woken up wet and naked in a room. There is sticky liquid covering you, a wash basin and a towel on a stand nearby and clothes in your colours lying folded on a table, along with weapons in a style you prefer.

You clean yourself, dress and step out through the door.

Characters:

Describe your idea of an elder and their abilities. Also include your likely arrival time (although if you arrive early or later that’s fine).

Players:

1. Matthew B (GM)
2. Alan W
3. Claire M
4. Dave C
5. Elizabeth B
6. Gary B
7. Jocelyn B
8. Kevin D
9. Marieke K
10. Mark N
11. Paul J
12. Mel M
13. Sally P
14. Tym N
15. Paul J

Organiser’s Note:

Matthew B has kindly prepared a game suitable for those arriving during the Friday morning.  If you’d like to drop in, please sign up here!

Game 2/2: Hunt of the Nephilim

GM: Rob I
Cast: 4-8
System: Homebrew ADRPGish

Description:

The Council of Arcadia has decreed that the rogue sorcerer and known nephilim, Claudius Hyde, must be made to face justice for crimes against reality and the people of Arcadia.

Leading this crusade are members of the Servants of Isthar, colloquially known as the Green Order, who make their life’s work defending the multiverse against those that abuse magic and power over reality.  Supplementing this mission are a guide to the paths through realities, members of other Orders who also seek justice, and a ruthless mercenary or two just in it for the cash.

Characters:

Characters will be pre-made, each with their own personal ‘victory condition’ goal (as well as the universal victory condition of a successful hunt).  Players will bid on which character they wish to play at the start of the game, and leftover points can be used to purchase certain add-on items.  Leftover/overspent points are “stuff”.

Gameplay will be focused on travelling through strange realities on the path of a dangerous criminal, so combat, survival, and roleplaying interactions with those you come across on the path will play a significant part of this game.

If the players don’t complete the mission by the end of the session time, the evil nephilim escapes!

Players:

1. Rob I (GM)
2. Alastair J
3. Anna J
4. Carsten D
5. Jonathan A
6. Keith M
7. Rachel W
8. Scott S
9. Stephen Z

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Friday – Evening Game

(7pm to Late)

Game 3/1: It was this way when I found it.

GM: Dave C
Cast: 4-8
System: Lords of Gossamer and Shadow (LoGaS)

Description:

Time: 02:17:22

Date: 03/02/18

Location: London

It is one of those mornings – you know the type. The type when your phone goes off at some Gods awful time in the wee small hours. Not your phone of course, no that one is still dormant, no this is the other phone – the one they gave you.

Time to get yourself together. Time to do what you do. Something has changed and someone or something is threatening London.

Characters:

10 point LoGaS characters – you may buy down as many stats as you want up to -25 (buying down in chunks of -10 or -25). I would advise against using any of the Great Powers with a Psyche or Endurance of less than -10. Let me repeat that I would strongly advise against using any of the Great Powers with low stats unless you have another mechanism in place. If you intend to take any of the great powers please consider how you came to learn them and how you have failed so far to cause major mayhem in the world around you.

Every character must be a member of some sort of secret organisation – MI5, The Laundry, The Golden Dawn. Whatever you want but you have to let me know and what your role is in that organisation. Should you choose to be part of a non-esoteric but still secret organization all good but expect some whiplash moments as reality and preconception may are may not tally.

No artifacts above 4 points.

Stuff capped at +5/-5

Wrighting and Invocation although not impossible would potentially prove inadvisable.

Allies – please buy some.

Every character must have a dim, dark, dirty secret – either you write it or I’ll give you one. On the whole you’ll probably prefer to determine your own problems.

Please may I have characters as soon as possible, by preference no more than 1000 words/ character. Let me know what your character does, where they came from, where they live, what they like, what they hate, what they do. The usual oh and did I mention a dark secret – one of those please. Whatever you want to play you have to be able to work in London in 2018 without drawing attention to yourself.

Players:

1. Dave C (GM)
2. Alan W
3. Anna J
4. Jocelyn B
5. Kevin D
6. Paul J
7. Rob I

Game 3/2: Can’t See The Woods For The Trees

GM: Tym N
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

Arden Forest, a dark and mysterious place, no-one really knows all of it except Julian and he’s vanished. So a group of his friends, children and employees have decided to go looking for him.

Characters:

Standard 150pt character created before the con.

Players:

1. Tym N (GM)
2. Carsten D
3. Claire M
4. Elizabeth B
5. Jonathan A
6. Stephen Z
7. Willem-Jan W

Game 3/3: Fall of Magic

GM: Gary B
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

“Magic is dying, and the Magus is dying with it. We few companions must travel together to the realm of Umbra where magic was born.”

Characters:

Fall of Magic is a diceless, collaborative storytelling game where the players assume the roles of a group of travellers in the company of the Magus. The destination is the mysterious source of all magic though why the players seek this mythical place is up to them. On the way, You will encounter strange hosts, fantastic places, and perilous choices as we play to discover who our characters are, how they relate, and how our journey changes them.

Players:

1. Gary B (GM)
2. Andy R
3. Keith M
4. Mel M
5. Rachel W
6. Sally P
7. Vivek D

Game 3/4: Perils in a Pacific Paradise

GM: Jason P
Cast: 5-7
System: Homebrew

Description:

Players:

1. Jason P (GM)
2. Alastair J
3. Marieke K
4. Mark N
5. Mascha D
6. Matthew B
7. Scott S

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Saturday – Morning Game

(9am – 5pm)

Game 4/1: This Woman’s Work

GM: Alan W
Cast: 4-6
System: Modified ADRPG

Description:

I should be crying but I just can’t let it show
I should be hoping but I can’t stop thinking
All the things we should’ve said that are never said
All the things we should’ve done that we never did
…Oh darling make it go away

There are two worlds, Marcuria, the world of magic and Stark, the realm of science. You must walk the paths in between. Saved April. Saved the world. Can you save yourselves?

Characters:

A sequel to “Tower of the Mind”, new and returning players welcome. Characters are from a future Shadow Earth, specialists in their chose field. No points required, just a description. Details provided by the GM.

Players:

1. Alan W (GM)
2. Claire M
3. Kevin D
4. Paul J
5. Mel M
6. Willem-Jan W

Game 4/2: Escape from Gulag 13

GM: Matthew B
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

The Farnese-Kashfa war has been going for a few years but it’s about to end and the military industrial complex of Farnese is about to get a clobbering, and one that Amber supports (although not officially).  There is one simple problem with this, Kashfa can’t afford to win. The Farnese have captured a large number of Kashfan nobility with the intention of negotiating ransoms when the war ends, Kashfa can’t pay and Amber doesn’t want Farnese getting that much money anyway. It also doesn’t want to see a number of Kashfan nobles suddenly executed.

King Random’s plan is to find some volunteers to be arrested as escaped Kashfan prisoners of war and have them sent to the notorious Gulag 13 to arrange for a jail break. Of course the people sent can’t use pattern or powers very much (that would be noticed) and Amber should be able to deny their existence if they get caught.

Characters:

100pt characters. Amber Diceless RPG. No shadow knight weirdness. No items or sets of items over 4 points. Stuff limit 5pts. No stats below chaos. All characters must either come with a decent criminal record from the reign of Eric/Oberon/Corwin or Random, be the children of Amberites not in favour in the court (Eric/Brand etc) or just be good guys out to prove themselves. [If prisoners have items, animals or allies then they will be returned by Random when the characters accept] [All characters should be willing to accept this deal at the start of the scenario.] [Farnese is a sword and musket style world]

Additional: If a player has taken part in the Vialle 2.0 campaign before (eg in Where Amberites Dare) then their character can  return if they wish.

Players:

1. Matthew B (GM)
2. Anna J
3. Elizabeth B
4. Jocelyn B
5. Jonathan A
6. Mark N
7. Mascha D
8. Rob B

Game 4/3: Jigsaw

GM: Carsten D
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

You’ll discover the private Shadow Shelter of Oberon and uncover some terrible secrets and face deadly guardians. Will you solve the mystery of the Oberon’s last will and testament?   Or will they fail and pay the price?

Characters:

100pt characters from the core Amber family (though relatives are allowed)

Players:

1. Carsten D (GM)
2. Gary B
3. Keith M
4. Rachel W
5. Sally P
6. Scott S
7. Stephen Z

Game 4/4: Burning Coal

GM: Vivek D
Cast: 4-8
System: Burning Coal

Note: While the game description is the same as 2/2, the game will be very different – even for players playing both!

Description:

It is the turn of the 19th century: The great imperial powers vie for dominance, fuelled by coal and steered by the industrial combines and their brass-and-steel difference engines:

But not all their conflicts are played out in the open, by displays of military might or commercial conflicts – there are other, more shadowy arenas where the Great Game is also played.

At the heart of the British Empire we find The Ministry (it has a name, officially, on paper – but never speak it. It is always just The Ministry).

Home to the freak, the monster, the superhuman, the undead, the spy, the assassin and the mad scientist* and those simply… less trammeled by ordinary moral considerations.

This means you.

Characters:

Players should pick an archetype or template to build their character on – Mad Scientist*, Monster, Super-spy, Werewolf, Golem, Demon-ridden Sorceress – feel free to plunder any and all of Pulp, Sci-Fi, Fantasy for an idea (or even come up with your own).

That’s who your character is. There should be a reason the ministry would want to employ you – some extraordinary ability, power or skill-set. There should also be a reason you work for the ministry: They might have stayed your execution for a crime (real or framed) in return for your service. Maybe they pay you vast sums of money. Perhaps they are the only source of a drug you need. Or possibly you’re just the right mix of patriotic and amoral that you do it because you want to.

Players:

1. Vivek D (GM)
2. Alastair J
3. Andy R
4. Dave C
5. Edith B
6. Jason P
7. Marieke K
8. Tym N

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Saturday – Evening Game

(7pm – Late)

Game 5/1: Reflections and Echoes

GM: Dave C
Cast: 4-7
System: LoGaS

Description:

In the realms of the Oneiroi there is only you. Loose ends and faded memories collide and perhaps from these things revelation or forgiveness may be found. If you are one of those that have faced Great Soulded Sam and survived then the last thing you recall was the screaming whine of Eidolon engines tested to destruction as Slake’s vessel roars towards oblivion.

For those lucky enough never to have met the Buddha then there was a flash and then beautiful arcing tracery the likes of which can never be replicated and have never been seen before. The lines of imperfection fading across scorched retinas fall into darkness mixed with the smell of cordite and tobacco smoke and the sound of a woman’s laughter and dogs in the background.

Elsewhere on the stair Ma Geneva turns to her Bill “Oi you useless fing get them nice cups out someone’s cummin’ in’t they? An’ no nicking them jammy dodgers thems for guests.”

Down behind the corners and the corridors a man in orange turns at a noise in the shadows, “Oh fuck! But you’re dead. I saw….”

Finally storm clouds form up over an old observatory and the flashes of lightning mark the night sky. It is the season of rains in this place and the river is coming into flood. With each flash the walls of the observatory become more picked out as the purple flowers are picked out clean against the stone.

Characters:

For those who have faced Great Souled Sam and survived it.

Additionally new characters built on 150 points character to be submitted to me before game time of new.

Old characters please let me have up to 10 loose ends and threads you would like to be unravelled for you in the land of dreams.

Usual warning – I advise against invocation and Eidolon/ Umbra can be bought at lower levels.

All players must contact me prior to game by email please.

Players:

1. David C (GM)
2. Alan W (r)
3. Edith B (r)
4. Gary B (r)
5. Kevin D (r)
6. Paul J (r)
7. Tym N (r)
8. Vivek D (r)

Game 5/2: Pax Britannica

GM: Alastair J
Cast: 6
System: –

Description:

Pax Britannica (Latin for “British Peace”) is the period of relative peace in Europe and the world (1815 – the present) during which the British Empire has become the global hegemonic power and has adopted the role of a global police force.

We look forward to the time when the Power of Love will replace the Love of Power. Then will our world know the blessings of peace.

William Ewart Gladstone, PM

It is the year 1872 and Britain is riding high with its technology and industry delivering advances in military prowess as well as for the economy. The power of steam, advances in clockwork and creation of difference engines have delivered not just economic changes but also social and environmental ones too, even resulting in flight. But there is no room for complacency though as other countries and empires seek opportunities to advance their various causes usually at the cost of others.

Characters:

For various reasons which are unique to each character, you are working for the Government, in particular Viscount Lord Melbourne (nephew of the Queen’s first PM). You have been chosen because of your exceptional if not unique abilities and prowess which Lord M, as he is affectionately referred to, puts to use when complications arise that “require a certain degree of secrecy and tact”.  You will be briefed on your mission by Lord M on a strictly need-to-know basis.  Huzzah!

Although this is a continuation game, new players are very welcome.

Players:

1. Alastair J (GM)
2. Andy R
3. Claire M
4. Jason P
5. Marieke K
6. Mascha D
7. Sally P

Game 5/3: Caine and Abel

GM: Rachel W
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

When Caine breaks into Oberon’s old study and then mysteriously disappears, King Random is adamant that it’s the younger generation that must find him and bring him home.

Characters:

Children of the elder Amberites. 100 point characters, no Shadow Knight.

Players:

1. Rachel W (GM)
2. Carsten D
3. Elizabeth B
4. Jonathan A
5. Mel M
6. Stephen Z
7. Willem-Jan W

Game 5/4: Storms over Amber

GM: Scott S
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:
Its been one year since Random took the crown.  Things were good at first.  Wounds healed, cities were rebuilt and those nasty Chaosians have kept themselves to themselves .  Random has been a… Boisterous …king.  sometimes partying so hard some of his guests have died from exhaustion.  Only Vialle seems to be able to get him to give the court a break and to focus on the job of running the kingdom.  For Random  Delegation is a magic word and Flora and Vialle have taken on much of the work.

The first storm wasn’t that bad…..a slightly larger than normal swell that caused issues around the docks.  Subsequent storms were worse.   Amber’s lower city was flooded and Random has taken to standing atop the castle walls, Jewell of Judgement held high shouting at the storm to prevent further damage.

After the latest storm you are called into a private meeting with the King……

Cannon:
The 1st set of books can be considered cannon….or at least Corwin’s official viewpoint.  Ignore then second set.  Nothing is known of Merlin et all

Characters:
Characters will be Amberites. Lineage will be known….but any Amberite can be your parent….as long as you come up with a public story of why you are at court and at least respected and considered loyal to the family.

150 points.  Pattern is free but you don’t have to take it (no points back though)
No advanced powers
No Shadow Knight stuff
All items subject to GM approval
Max 5 points of stuff good or bad

Players:

1. Scott S (GM)
2. Anna J
3. Jocelyn B
4. Keith M
5. Mark N
6. Matthew B
7. Rob I

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Sunday – Morning Game

(9am – 5pm)

Game 6/1: Blandings, Biarritz and Baccarat

GM: Mel M
Cast: 6-9
System:

The game is a crossover between Amber and the novels of PG Wodehouse, e, set in the Wodehousian universe, with elements of the thrillers of the 1930s – Dornford Yates, Sapper, John Buchan and Bulldog Drummond. The system is a variant of the Gentlemen and Players rules, created by Timothy Ferguson (see http://timothyferguson.wordpress.com/ephemera/amber/gentlemen-and-players/). Full notes will be supplied.

Description:

It’s early February, cold and dank at Blandings Castle, and a fair few inhabitants are recovering from flu. So when a restorative trip to Biarritz is suggested, it seems like a tophole plan. And someone has to keep a watchful eye on certain of the Uncles who might otherwise see themselves as off the leash and in the vicinity of a rather fine Casino …
But the news that Uncle Caine is also in Biarritz (doing whatever the Empire needs him to do), as well as that dangerous couple Lord and Lady Tilbury (aka George and Dara Sawall) might suggest that other plots are afoot.

Characters:

100 point characters. The characters are children of the Blandings version of Amberites (except that Fiona and Flora are Aunts). Mirelle and Random Threepwood are too young to have adult children, so also out.
People who have played this game at ACUK – it’s intended to be a side game, not a part of the ongoing story. You can play your usual character, or create a new one for this game.

Players:

1. Mel M (GM)
2. Alan W
3. Claire M
4. Jason P
5. Marieke K
6. Mascha D
7. Scott S
8. Tym N
9. Vivek D

Game 6/2: The Widows Revenge

GM: Andy R
Cast: 3-6
System: ADRPG with GM’s tweaks

Description:

Players:

1. Andy R (GM)
2. Carsten D
3. Elizabeth B
4. Rob I
5. Stephen Z

Game 6/3: Downstairs, Downstairs

GM: Paul J
Cast: 6-8
System: ADRPG

Description:

As a faraway war begins, in a place about which we know little, and the Royal Family of Amber leave to go to fight the enemy, the mighty and impregnable Castle of Amber is left to the supervision of the Princess Florimel. You, its humble Royal servants, can expect no problems from actions a universe away. So it feels like the dawning of an unexpected holiday with no-one to wait on, or clean for, or clean up after.

Characters:

Characters will be servants of the castle generated according to rules set out by the GM and sent out prior to the Con, but they will be based on regular Amber rules.

Players:

1. Paul J (GM)
2. Sally P (GM)
3. Alastair J
4. Jonathan A
5. Keith M
6. Rachel W
7. Willem-Jan W

Game 6/4: Wide Awake

GM: Anna J
Cast: 6-8
System: ADRPG

Description:

“After its recent breakthroughs in cryogenic stasis and plasma rocket propulsion, Google aims to establish a permanent human settlement on Alpha Centauri. Several unmanned missions will be completed first, delivering supplies and establishing a suitable landing site before the first carefully selected crew will depart on a one-way mission. If we all work together, we can make this happen. We’re going to Alpha Centauri – come with us!

The global search has begun for the first humans to set foot on Alpha Centauri and make it their new home. In an extensive training period, candidates will learn the skills they will need on arrival and in establishing an initial base camp. The combined skill set of each astronaut team member will therefore need to be multi-disciplinary.

Just think, 1000 years from now, everyone on Earth will still remember the names of the first pioneers to set foot on Alpha Centauri! Please explain in 1000 words or less who you are and why your skills, experience and other personal qualities should earn you a place on our crew.”

You can’t believe that your application has been accepted and that you’re in the running to be one of the lucky crew of pioneers making the first manned 88 year trip to Alpha Centauri. Astronaut training goes well and you’re not one of the many disappointed wash-outs.

Then the news you’ve been waiting for – you made the final cut for the first crew which will be captained by one of your heroes – veteran astronaut Captain Eleanor Raymond – first person to set foot on Mars back in 2027. You get into your cryo-pod and gradually everything fades to black, just like the briefing they gave you…

…as you come back from the depths the first thing you become aware of is the sound of alarms ringing. Even in a foggy state you’re pretty sure that wasn’t meant to happen. Also you feel really cold…was that in the briefing on possible post-stasis side effects? As your vision slowly returns you can see flashing red lights to go with those alarms. All around you your fellow astronauts are waking up looking similarly confused.

You groggily sit up and that’s when it hits you – or to be more precise the absence of it hits you – no sign of Alpha Centauri on the forward display viewer. In fact nothing you recognise from the navigation training you received. And that’s when you notice the dead body and you realise it’s the Captain…

Characters:

Please submit your character’s application to the advert (1000 words or less) and an accurate summary of your psychological profile (as written by a trained professional rather than by your character!) in advance.

All characters are normal humans and start with average human base stats of 0.  Pysche in this context governs perceptiveness, intuition and emotional intelligence.  Warfare covers intelligence and recall as well as the usual. Strength and endurance as normal.  You have 15 points to spend and can down-sell one attribute only by up to 5 points although you’ll need to explain how your character would still be selected for the mission with that shortcoming.   No more than 3 points of stuff in either direction.

Briefing notes will be provided to cover important information from your astronaut training including your rank in terms of the command structure.

Players:

1. Anna J (GM)
2. Dave C
3. Edith B
4. Jocelyn B
5. Kevin D
6. Mark N
7. Matthew B

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Sunday – Evening Game

Game 7/1: Mouseguard: The Fall

GM: Matthew B
Cast: 4-6
System: ‘Amber Mousegauard’ (Bespoke)

Description:

It is Autumn, the winds are warm, the sun shines down and the crops are being harvested. Things have become quieter again and the forces within the guard trying to tear it apart have been uncovered.

This is a busy time of the year, there is maintenance on the paths to perform, messages to deliver, and pre-winter maintenance to perform in Guard Keep. In the background people are talking about Paulette’s desire to retire at the end of the year and whether or not a suitable replacement can be found.

Characters:

Character Creation: On the night using the Amber Mouseguard rules. Returning characters possible.

Players:

1. Matthew B (GM)
2. Carsten D
3. Claire M
4. Gary B
5. Mascha D
6. Rachel W
7. Stephen Z
8. Vivek D

Game 7/2: Betrayed

GM: Kevin D
Cast: 4-8
System: ADRPG

Description:

Who wasn’t a traitor in Amber?

The Patternfall War concluded ‘without a hitch,’ a small family disagreement was resolved, and Amber now has a new King.  Unfortunately, those history books you were so sure would write a fanciful tale of victory and success are painting a much grimmer picture – a story of Betrayal, Murder and worse.    Some even go so far as saying that it was entirely a… farce.

Will the throne survive the inevitable uprising?

Who knows, but with Amber’s Royal family a shell of its former self, it’s up to you stabilise this boat, to right the wrong, to hit them where it hurts, to… <insert cliche here>. Let’s get real, it’s once again your chance to claim (or indeed keep!) the Crown of the One True Throne.

The real question is… will you survive?

Characters: Characters:

Characters will be built using 250pts using standard ADRPG rules.  To spice things up, there will also be an additional ‘auction’ at the start of the game.  How do you pay for the items?   That’s up to you to provide….  Novel ideas welcome!

The only character requirement is that you, yes you, have a burning desire to claim the Throne of Amber.  We’re not here to pussy-foot around, Amber needs you!

Players:

1. Kevin D (GM)
2. Alan W (r)
3. Alastair J (r)
4. Anna J
5. Dave C
6. Edith B (r)
7. Jason P (r)
8. Paul J (r)

Game 7/3: The Last Roll Of The Dice

GM: Tym N
Cast: 4-6
System: ADRPG

Description:

The Courts of Chaos; Despite the blessing of the Serpent, despite overwhelming numerical superiority, and despite having a traitor in the enemy’s midst – you’re still losing!

Desperate times call for desperate measures, so an elite band of Chaosian troops is sent deep into enemy territory to capture the Eye Of The Serpent.

Characters:

200 point characters generated before the convention.  No Pattern, No Shadow Knight other than that everything is available.

Players:

1. Tym N (GM)
2. Elizabeth B
3. Jocelyn B
4. Keith M
5. Marieke K
6. Sally P
7. Willem-Jan W

Game 7/4: The Track Not Taken

GM: Jonathan A
Cast: 4-6
System: Modified ADRPG

Description:

The fair city of Amethyst is the jewel in the crown of the Amethyst Trade League; ruled from the Glass Palace by Prince Martin.  One evening when the Prince is away on state business the young Dukes (and Duchesses), Earls (and Countesses), Marquesses (and Marchionesses) decide to head into the city for a night of entertainment.

However as their train leaves the private station beneath the Palace they observe a wizened hunchback to the side of the trak and the train veers off down a siding none of them had ever noticed before…

Characters:

Characters will be younger Amberites (children of Martin, Merlin, Luke, Coral, or someone else of that age) who have grown up in a steam/cyber punk world.

More details including character creation will appear at http://www.ysolde.ucam.org/playersguide/The_Track_Not_Taken/

Players:

1. Jonathan A (GM)
2. Andy R
3. Mark N
4. Mel M
5. Rob I
6. Scott S

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Monday – Bonus Morning Game

Game 8/1: Pot Luck

GM: Kevin D
Cast: Anyone who comes
System: Unknown

Description:

As with the early game, sign up here if you have the morning free and want to do something!   This could take the form of lazing around in the hotel… or it could be a walk down to the beach through the forest.   Not sure.  We’ll see how many people sign and up and decide as a group what to do!

Update:

Currently we have 18!! Yes, 18 players signed up for a Monday game.   This is far beyond what I expected.   As such, I’m looking to try and organise something game-wise for Monday and we’ll what Potted Luck I’m able to uncover! 🙂  Watch this space!

Players:

1. Loads!!

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Backup Games

For GMs kind enough to offer ‘extra’ games even though they would prefer to be playing!

Game B/1: Amber Zero Dawn

GM: Alan W
Cast: 6-8
System: ADRPG

Description:

GAIA: If you had had a child, Elisabet, what would you have wished for him or her? Sobeck: I guess… I would have wanted her to be… curious. And wilful — unstoppable, even… but with enough compassion to… heal the world… just a little bit.

Nature has reclaimed the ruins of forgotten civilisation but humanity lives on in primitive tribes. In this new wilderness, they fight for survival against the machines; ferocious mechanical creatures of unknown origin.

Characters:

Characters are a disparate group of outlanders hoping to make sense of the strange gifts they have inherited from the Old Ones. Details from the GM.

This game was run previously at ACUK.

Game B/2: It was the land of my Father

GM: Dave C
Cast: 4-6
System: LoGaS

Description:

“Prydain, the Land of my Father’s runs from the cold seas in the North where the great river runs into the woods in which the painted men abide. It is bound to the East where the sun rises by the river and woods and hills, the old bridges now long wrecked with war and storm and the time since the Empire left. To the South the coast has three rivers and warmer waters to the lands of Llyonaise in the mists and further to the heart of the Empire that is no more. To the West where the sun dies the slavers and raiders live, the sea provides some protection and towards the North of that border it is said that amongst the skerries and broken ships there is a way to the Golden Isle.” – Nennius Minimus, Annales Prydain ab initio.

Magnus left with the best of you and now the land is beset on all sides. The priests of the one God and the wise folk of the Old Gods all take the words and gifts of the many and sometimes provide miracles. Now though beset on all sides rumour runs that Caer Dolbadarn has been burnt to the ground and the last of the blood of the High Kings is gone and with him the greatest treasures of Prydain. If the Prince is gone who will defend Prydain? Someone must find what has happened to the Prince and what has happened to the treasures. In that vein Hen Coel has called the greatest amongst the lands of Prydain to his Caer to bid them act for the good of the lands.

Characters:

LoGas Characters 10 pts Talk to me – but simply put no artifacts above 4 points. Tell my why you’re a hero, they come in all forms. The famer who wouldn’t give in, the soldier who refused a bribe, the priest who knew only faith or indeed the wisewoman who knew too much. Game brief will go out before game (Please read before writing a character and for the love of all that’s holy talk to me on line before Belfast).

Game X/1: Cognitive Dissonance

Organiser’s Note:  Matt sadly could not make the con, but I’ve kept his publish game blurb here in the hope that we’ll be able to play it at some point in the future!

GM: Matt N
Cast: 4-6
System: A murder mystery mash-up of the Chronicles of Amber and the Dresden Files

Description: