Happy Krampusnacht! Krampus and Saint Nicholas for the Ghastly Affair RPG.

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18th Century, Austria, Bavaria, Christian Folklore, Christmas, Christmas Tradition, Devil, Devils, Eighteenth Century, Folklore, Ghastly Affair, gothic game, Gothic Gaming, Gothick, Medieval Folklore, Napoleonic, role-playing game, Romantic Horror, rpg, Scary stories for Christmas, Styria, weird tradition, Yule

The following take on Krampus and Saint Nicholas also incorporates a certain notorious Styrian from one of the classics of Gothic literature. Remember, this is all just for fun, and definitely not meant as a commentary on anybody’s beliefs.

Krampus
The Devil who punishes wicked children at Christmastime.

Creature Class: Spirit (Devil)
Number Appearing: 1
Initial Impression: The sound of cowbells and crying children, followed by the sudden appearance of an extremely hairy, grotesque man with a long, protruding tongue and large, goat-like horns. He carries a birch switch, has a basket on his back, and and is bound in chains from which several heavy bells are suspended.
Size: Human-sized

Perversity: 21
Disposition: Aggressive
Charisma: 7 Intelligence: 9 Wisdom: 15
Strength: 18 Dexterity: 15 Constitution: 18
Speed: 9

Armor Class: 4
Hit Dice: 5 (30 hp)
Attacks: 1 (claws, or grab)
Special Abilities: Diabolical Characteristics
Weaknesses: Diabolical Weaknesses, Distracted by Alcohol and Pretty Women
Assets: Skilled Torturer, Expert Grappler
Afflictions: Encumbered (by chains, heavy bells, and having two different feet)
Preternatural Powers: Cause Fear, Detect Evil, Detect Lies, Dimension Door, Knock, Invisibility, Major Creation (usually used to make birch switches and coal), Walk Through Shadows, Walk Through Walls

Natural Habitat: Wherever children are found at Christmastime (Bavaria, Austria, and adjacent areas). The dark and sulfurous caves of Hell.
Level: 5

In centuries past, Saint Nicholas put magical chains upon a Devil, and bound him to be the punisher of wicked children. Every night of December the 5th since then, the Devil Krampus has been summoned by Saint Nicholas to accompany him as he visits the children of Austria (and the surrounding lands). Good children receive gifts from Saint Nicholas. Wicked children receive the attentions of Krampus instead.

Krampus’ body is covered with shaggy hair, and he sports a large pair of goat horns. An extremely long tongue hangs from his fanged mouth, and his eyes burn like coals. One of his feet is human-like; the other is a cloven hoof. He always carries a switch of birch branches. The steel chains that bind him are attached to his wrists by manacles, and wrap around his body. Hanging from them are the large cowbells that announce his approach. On his back is strapped a basket, from out of which the small hand of a child will occasionally appear, accompanied by pitiful pleading.

Krampus’ punishments vary in severity, depending on his whims, and the extent of the child’s misdeeds. The most mild punishment consists of Krampus taunting the child with a present of coal, while he (or she) must watch other children enjoying the nice gifts given to them by Saint Nicholas. If Krampus is feeling especially mean, the coal will be glowing hot. Next in severity is a thorough birching, administered with the switch that Krampus carries for that purpose. Sometimes Krampus will then present the birch switch to the child or their parents, as a reminder. The very worst children are seized and stuffed into Krampus’ magical basket. Such unfortunates will be carried back to Hell, never to be seen again.

Although Krampus delights in the suffering of the wicked, he is himself thoroughly reprobate. His lust for schnapps and pretty girls is legendary. The moment Saint Nicholas is distracted, Krampus will take the opportunity to break valuable objects and cause general mischief.

Krampus is skilled at grabbing children and throwing them into his basket before they can wriggle free of his clutch. If challenged to a direct fight by an adult, however, Krampus will throw aside his birch switch and attack with his clawed hands. Saint Nicholas will not interfere in any fight involving Krampus, provided the Devil’s opponents are not themselves evil. If Krampus’ physical form is killed, he will disappear along with his chains. His basket will remain, however, dropping and spilling out all the children abducted that night. The fleeing children will then be given a stern warning by Saint Nicholas that they won’t escape punishment next time!

Some whisper that it was because of the wickedness he found in a certain family of Styrian aristocrats that Saint Nicholas first decided to take strict measures to instill virtue in Alpine children. In 1687 Saint Nicholas and Krampus paid another visit to that same aristocratic family, where they encountered a young daughter of the clan named Mircalla. That girl never forgot her humiliation by Krampus, even after her death. Thus, the Vampyre Carmilla Karnstein became Krampus’ eternal adversary, and she will stop at nothing to end his yearly visits to Styria.

Krampus’ Special Abilities

Basket of Imprisonment: The inside of Krampus’ basket is an infinitely large, pitch-black space with a cold stone floor. Krampus can always reach into the basket and pull out any child desired, however. The sound of crying children continually emanates from the Basket, and every so often a small hand or foot will peak out from under the lid.

Diabolical Characteristics: Krampus is immune to all weapons, except those which are made of silver, blessed, or otherwise enchanted. He cannot be harmed by fire, poison, disease, or any Special Ability or Preternatural Effect which target minds or emotions. Krampus can see perfectly regardless of illumination, is immune to blindness or any other debility caused by extremely bright light, retains the ability to distinguish colors in conditions of total darkness, and does not need time to adjust his eyes to changing light. He can speak, write, and understand all languages and forms of communication.

Krampus’ Weaknesses

Chains of Binding and Warning: The magical chains that Krampus wears allow Saint Nicholas to summon him at will, forces the Devil to obey direct commands from the Saint, and inflict 1d6 point of damage on their wearer if he touches anyone with a Perversity of 6 or lower. Furthermore, the bells attached to the chains are audible even when Krampus is Invisible.

Diabolical Weaknesses: Krampus is burned by holy water as if it was acid, cannot enter holy ground or touch blessed objects, and is subject to the power of Faith. He is Vulnerable to Silver, and will not voluntarily touch it. As a Spirit, he is susceptible to all Preternatural Effects that target spiritual entities. Additionally, the initial appearance of Krampus will cause the entire Nearby Area to momentarily smell like burning sulfur.

Distracted by Alcohol and Pretty Women: If confronted by an offer of strong drink, or a particularly attractive young woman (especially one with an ample bosom), Krampus must make a Charisma Save. If he fails he will immediately break off whatever he is doing to drink the alcohol, or pursue the young woman.

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Saint Nicholas
The generous but testy Patron Saint of children, merchants, and mariners.

Signs & Portents: If encountered at Christmastime, a light snow falls, and children become giddy. If at sea, the winds become favorable, and fish are drawn to the nets and hooks of anglers.
Initial Impression: A mature, white-bearded man with a dark complexion, dressed in the white, red and gold vestments of a bishop. A halo of light surrounds his head. He bears a golden crozier in one hand, and with the other holds a sack filled with oranges, gold coins, and small toys. The odor of fine incense emanates from his body.
Size: Human-sized

Perversity: 5
Disposition: Determined
Charisma: 20 Intelligence: 20 Wisdom: 20
Strength: 20 Dexterity: 20 Constitution: 20
Speed: 9

Armor Class: 10
Hit Dice: 20 (120 Hit Points)
Attacks: 1 (punch in the face)
Special Abilities: Angelic (Saintly) Characteristics | True Resurrection
Weaknesses: Limited Power Over Spirits (Angels only) | Intolerant of Disbelief
Assets: Master of All Crafts | Master Mariner | Brilliant Businessman | Skilled Boxer
Afflictions: Short Temper
Preternatural Powers: All Transmutations, all 0 – 3rd Level Blessings, Divinations, Evocations, Fascinations, and Glamors, but no Maledictions.
Favored Preternatural Powers: Augury, Control Winds, Consecrate Object, Create Food and Water, Cure Serious Wounds, Detect Evil, Enchant Weird Object, Fertility, Fly, Invisibility, Knock, Major Creation (permanent, and can make precious objects), Rain of Fish, Read Minds, Teleport

Usual Surroundings: Wherever children live at Christmastime. Wherever his holy relics are found. Ships at sea. The shops of pious merchants. Poor houses with unmarried daughters.
Level: 10

Saint Nicholas is among the Saints who take a very active interest in events on Earth. On the night of December 5th every year (the eve of his Feast day) he visits homes, distributing small gifts to good children. Centuries ago, however, he became disgusted at the wickedness he found among some children in the German-speaking Alpine regions. He decided to bind a Devil named Krampus into his service, and he charged the diabolical being with the task of punishing misbehaving youngsters. Since that time the two have traveled together to reward the virtuous, and torment the wicked.

Although he is renowned for his generosity, Saint Nicholas’ short temper is just as legendary. When he lived on Earth he was a delegate to the Council of Nicea, where he famously punched the unorthodox theologian Arias in the face. The Saint will become incensed by any heretical or rationalist argument, which can cause his physical incarnation to actually explode with anger!

Although best known as the patron Saint of children, mariners and merchants also pray for Saint Nicholas’ intercession. The Saint can calm storms, and his presence causes the nets of fishermen to become filled. His powers allow him to make almost anything he wants from thin air, including Weird Objects. Unlike human magicians, he can even make objects of precious metal or gemstone through his Preternatural power of Major Creation. He can restock a poor merchant’s entire inventory, and create dowries to keep poor unmarried girls from resorting to prostitution. His mightiest power, however, is his ability to resurrect the dead, without the baleful consequences that often result when profane sorcerers attempt the same miracle.

It is whispered among certain Demon Hunters that it was the twisted spawn of the infamous Karnstein family that first made Saint Nicholas so angry that he decided to employ Krampus. To this day the sole remaining Karnstein, the Vampyre Carmilla, schemes to destroy Saint Nicholas (and his diabolical servant). Of course, Saint Nicholas is immortal (and can repel Carmilla with his Faith), but still she seeks some way to eliminate him from the Earth forever.

Saint Nicholas has a great rivalry with the Yuletide Fairies and Elves of the Winter Court, such as Father Christmas, Père Noël, and La Befana. While Saint Nicholas stands for morality and religious observance, Father Christmas and his ilk promote feasting and general good cheer, without concern for the religious significance. Perhaps some kind of accord is possible, if Saint Nicholas could learn to be more jolly, and the winter elves agreed to help make toys. Otherwise, the dispute regarding the proper celebration of the Holiday may well result in Saint Nicholas punching one (or more) of the other powers in the face.

Saint Nicholas’ Special Abilities

Angelic (Saintly) Characteristics: Saint Nicholas is immune to all mundane weapons, all poisons, all diseases, any effect of an electrical nature, and all Fascination effects. He can see perfectly regardless of illumination, is immune to blindness or any other debility caused by extremely bright light, retains the ability to distinguish colors in conditions of total darkness, and does not need time to adjust his eyes to changing light. Saint Nicholas can speak, write, and understand all languages and forms of communication.

True Resurrection: Saint Nicholas can resurrect any dead person to full life, no matter how long they have been deceased, or the condition of their body. The resurrected person suffers no ill effects or increase in Perversity.

Saint Nicholas’ Weaknesses

Intolerant of Disbelief: If for some reason one wished to send Saint Nicholas back to Heaven, the surest way is to beat him in a theological debate over the supremacy of reason over faith. Naturally, since he is a Saint and prodigiously Intelligent to boot, it’s extremely difficult to do so. A debater must first succeed at an Intelligence check, to make a point solid enough that Saint Nicholas takes it seriously. Then, the debater must succeed in 3 successive Intelligence Contests against the Saint, without losing a single one. A debater that fails will be quickly, and repeatedly, punched in the face by Saint Nicholas. If the Saint is defeated, however, his face will turn red and emit steam, just before his physical body explodes. Naturally, once Saint Nicholas is able to return to Earth he will deal with the blasphemous disbeliever!

Limited Power Over Spirits: Saint Nicholas can only target Angels when he employs the following Preternatural Powers: Banish Spirit, Bind Spirit, Summon Spirit. He can, however, repel creatures of supernatural Evil through Faith. When he bound Krampus to his service, he first punched the Devil in the face, and then placed the Chains of Binding and Warning on him.

Bring Back the Christmas Ghost Story!

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American folklore, American Legend, apparition, Christmas, Christmas Tradition, English folklore, English Legend, English literature, Ghost, Gothic Horror, Gothic Literature, Gothic Romance, Gothick, Holidays, Medieval Folklore, Romantic Horror, Solstice, specter, Tradition, Urban Legend, Victorian, Victorian Gothic, Yule

Christmas time is here again. It’s the season for decorations and songs. Eggnog and cookies. Little men moving in the night, and a spirit of justice flying through the air. There’s darkness around those Christmas lights, and it’s always been there.

Americans have largely forgotten the tradition of the Christmas ghost story, but it was once a vital part of our celebration. We love “A Christmas Carol”, but fail to acknowledge the tradition of Yuletide horror that it represents. But, what could be more appropriate on a cold winter’s night than to shudder at a chilling tale? When our ancestors shivered from the cold, they also told stories to send shivers down their spines!

This year, have a truly traditional Christmas. Help bring back the Christmas ghost story! Remember that elves are kin to goblins, and Krampus comes too. It isn’t just the living who yearn to be with their families, and mischievous sprites still lurk in your Christmas tree.

Look outside. What left such strange tracks in the new-fallen snow?

Horror doesn’t end at Halloween!

Two Mysterious New Preternatural Effects for the Ghastly Affair RPG

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Ancient Folklore, Folklore, Free RPG, Ghastly Affair, gothic game, Gothic Gaming, Gothic Horror, Gothic Literature, Gothic Romance, Gothick, Magic, Medieval Folklore, Medieval Magic, Romantic Horror, Spells

Mysterious Building (Glamor)
Level: Incantation 5, Ceremony 3, Pact 5, Preternatural Power 5
Affected Area: 1 building occupying no more than 5,000 cubic feet in area.
Duration: Until Dawn
Saving Throw: Special

The User creates a quasi-real structure of any form desired, but which can occupy no more than 5,000 cubic feet in total volume. The apparent material, architecture, and interior furnishings are subject only to the imagination of the User. The User could create a 50-foot tall crenelated tower, a small but luxuriously appointed villa, or even a simple thatched hut. The Mysterious Building will give shelter from the elements, just like a normal building. There will be no clothing, food, or water in the Mysterious Building, however, nor will there be any servants. There may be a usable kitchen, depending on the will of he User. Anyone who has reason to disbelieve the reality of the Mysterious Building can make a Saving Throw. If they succeed, the structure simply does not exist for them. To the eyes of such a disbelieving person, anyone entering the Mysterious Building will simply disappear from sight.

A Mysterious Building always disappears at dawn. Anyone inside will find themselves at the exact spot where they apparently entered the structure the day before, regardless of where in the building they believed themselves to be.

Mysterious Transport (Evocation)
Level: Incantation 4, Ceremony 2, Pact 3, Preternatural Power 3
Affected Area: 1 horse, carriage, or boat
Duration: Until Dawn
Saving Throw: None

The User summons mysterious horse, carriage, or sailing boat that will serve until dawn. The horse will be completely black in color, and equal to a War Horse. The black carriage will have room for four passengers (plus their luggage), be pulled by four black Carriage Horses, and be driven by a figure clothed completely in black. The black boat will be manned by a sailor clothed completely in black, have room to transport a dozen people, and will always have the wind no matter what direction it goes. The driver of the carriage and sailor on the boat will obey all orders, but will not otherwise communicate. Nothing summoned by the Effect will fight for the User, or can be harmed by weapons or Preternatural Effects of any kind (except Dispel Magic).

The Mysterious Transport always disappears at dawn, whether or not anyone is currently employing it.

3 More Preternatural Effects For Ghastly Affair

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Ancient Folklore, Folklore, Free RPG, Ghastly Affair, gothic game, Gothic Gaming, Gothic Horror, Gothic Literature, Gothic Romance, Gothick, Magic, Medieval Folklore, Medieval Magic, Romantic Horror, Spells

Here are three more Preternatural Effects for Magicians and Spirits in the Ghastly Affair RPG.

Consecrate Location (Blessing)
Level: Ceremony: 3, Pact 5, Preternatural Power 5
Affected Area: 1 building or plot of land no larger than an acre.
Duration: Permanent until desecrated
Saving Throw: None

A location becomes specially consecrated, repelling supernatural Evil. Demons and Devil are generally unable to enter a Consecrated Location at all. Ghosts and Revenants must make a Moral Check to enter, and another every Turn to keep from leaving the location. Fairies are disgusted by Consecrated Locations, but can enter them if they want. Churches, graveyards, and other holy sites are commonly Consecrated, although the special protection of the Consecration is often undone by human actions.

A Consecrated Location can be desecrated by people deliberately performing immoral acts within it boundaries. The powers of Evil make a particular point of arraigning for the desecration of Consecrated Locations.

Discover Thief (Divination)
Level: Ceremony 2, Talisman 5, Pact 3, Preternatural Power 3
Affected Area: 1 thief
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: Avoids discovery

The User learns who stole a missing item, and the current location of the thief. The User can only inquire regarding one item at a time, although such things as a quantity of gold coins in a chest, or a bag of rubies, count as a single thing. The usual forms of this Effect only reveal where the thief was at the time of the question – the person may not still be in that location by the someone travels there. The name revealed will be the one most frequently used by the thief – not necessarily their birth name, or their current alias. Furthermore, the effect does not track the location of the stolen goods; either other Preternatural Effects (such as Locate Object) or mundane detective work will have to be used.

The Talisman form of the Effect automatically tells the wearer of the Talisman whenever anything belonging to them has been stolen, who took it, and the current location of the thief (or thieves).

In all cases the thief is entitled to a Saving Throw to avoid discovery.

Find Person (Divination)
Level: Ceremony 3, Pact 4, Preternatural Power 3
Affected Area: 1 person
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: Avoids discovery

The User learns the location of a single named person, wherever they may be. The User must know the actual birth name of the person – aliases and nicknames do not count. Most version of this effect only indicate where the person is at the moment the Effect is used. They might subsequently move from that location.

The Talisman version of the Effect allows the wearer to instantly know the current location of anyone desired, provided the wearer knows the person’s actual birth name.

The person to be found is entitled to a Saving Throw to avoid detection.

“Reverse Aging” and “Stop Aging” – Two Preternatural Effects For the Ghastly Affair RPG.

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Ancient Folklore, Folklore, Free RPG, Ghastly Affair, gothic game, Gothic Gaming, Gothic Horror, Gothic Literature, Gothic Romance, Gothick, Magic, Medieval Folklore, Medieval Magic, Romantic Horror, Spells

Who could resist the temptation to stop or reverse the aging process, if one could? Of course, the price of such power may be far more than you ever wanted to pay…

Reverse Aging (Transmutation)
Level: Ceremony 3, Pact 4, Mad Invention 5, Preternatural Power 4
Affected Area: User or Recipient
Duration: Permanent
Saving Throw: Negates if undesired

The physical effects of one year’s worth of aging are reversed. The effects are physical and permanent. True Seeing and similar Effects will not reveal the Recipient’s actual age. There is no limit to how youthful the Recipient can ultimately become, but only one year of aging can be undone per use. For example it will take 10 separate Ceremonies to undo 10 years worth of aging.

The means of creating this effect are often vile in the extreme. The Recipient must immediately make a Charisma Check to avoid gaining a Point of Perversity. This Check is in addition to any one that must be made to avoid gaining Perversity at the end of the Game Session.

A Vampyre of 7th Level of Higher can acquire Reverse Aging as a Vampyric Power. Such a Vampyre can decrease the apparent age of their own body, if they have allowed it to age through exposure to sunlight. A Vampyre cannot reverse the aging of others, however

Stop Aging (Transmutation)
Level: Ceremony 3, Pact 4, Talisman 5, Mad Invention 5, Preternatural Power 4
Affected Area: User or Recipient
Duration: 1 Week
Saving Throw: Negates if undesired

The Recipient stops aging for a period of 1 week. During that period the Recipient is also immune to all Preternatural Effects that might cause aging. A Vampyre who is the Recipient of this effect will find that their body does not age if exposed to sunlight for the course of the week.

Much like the Reverse Aging Effect, the Ceremonies, Pacts, and Magical Rituals that Stop Aging are frequently abominable. Mad Inventions that Stop Aging tend to do so through grotesque and grisly means.

The Talisman version of this effect stops the aging process completely for a year, after which the Talisman loses its charge. Such Talismans are almost priceless, if genuine. They are often used by wicked sorcerers to control vain people in positions of authority.

Miscellaneous Maledictions for Ghastly Affair

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Ancient Folklore, Folklore, Free RPG, Ghastly Affair, gothic game, Gothic Gaming, Gothic Horror, Gothic Literature, Gothic Romance, Gothick, Magic, Medieval Folklore, Medieval Magic, Romantic Horror, Spells

Here are more effects of the kind beloved by vile Black Magicians and murderous Mad Scientists.

Combust (Malediction)
Level: Incantation 1, Ceremony 1, Pact 1, Mad Invention 2, Preternatural Power 1
Affected Area: 1 Nearby target
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: Negates

The User causes the target to burn for 1d6 points of Lethal Damage. If the Effect is directed to an ordinarily combustible object (such as a torch or bale of hay) it will catch fire and burn as normal. If the effect is directed towards a living being who survives the Lethal Damage, the Recipient will evidence burns on their skin. If a living being is slain by means of a Combust Effect, however, they will erupt in flames and burn until they are reduced to ashes.

The Ceremony version of Combust is often used by Witches and Black Magicians to kill targets at a distance. Many such victims are found mysteriously burned to death, in rooms where seemingly nothing else has caught fire.

Because it is a Preternatural Effect and not natural fire, Combust does not inflict additional damage against Fairies or other beings that are Vulnerable to Fire.

Cut (Malediction)
Level: Incantation 1, Pact 1, Mad Invention 2, Preternatural Power 1
Affected Area: 1 Visible target
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: Negates

The User can slash any visible target as with an invisible knife. Living Recipients of a Cut Effect receive a Saving Throw to avoid being injured, with their Armor Class as a Bonus. Otherwise they suffer 1d6 Lethal Damage (Damage Bonus does not apply). The effect can also be used to sever ropes, cut foliage, or anything else an ordinary knife could do. The Recipient of a Cut Effect can be any distance away, as long as the User can still see what they are attacking.

Deadly Vapor (Malediction)
Level: Incantation 3, Pact 3, Mad Invention 4, Preternatural Power 3
Affected Area: The entire Nearby Area around a spot within visual range
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: Halves damage

The User causes the air in a visible location to become filled with poisonous fumes that inflict 3d6 points of Lethal Damage. Nonliving, naturally incorporeal, or non-breathing Creatures (including most Spirits, but not Fairies) are immune to a Deadly Vapor Effect.

Electric Discharge (Malediction)
Level: Incantation 2, Pact 2, Mad Invention 3, Preternatural Power 2
Affected Area: 1 Nearby target
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: Halves damage

An arc of electricity strikes a single Nearby target for 2d6 points of Lethal Damage. The User must have a direct line of sight to the target, who must be Nearby.

Fiery Dart (Malediction)
Level: Incantation 2, Pact 2, Mad Invention 3, Preternatural Power 2
Affected Area: 1 Nearby target
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: Halves damage

A bolt of flame strikes a single Nearby target for 2d6 points of Lethal Damage. Combustible objects will be set ablaze, and thereafter burn as usual.

Freeze (Malediction)
Level: Incantation 1, Pact 1, Mad Invention 2, Preternatural Power 1
Affected Area: 1 Nearby target
Duration: Instantaneous
Saving Throw: Negates

The User causes the Recipient to experience an extreme chill that inflicts 1d6 points of Lethal Damage. The Effect can also be used to instantly freeze up to a gallon of ordinary water.

Rain of Stones (Maladiction)
Level: Incantation 5, Ceremony 3, Pact 5, Preternatural Power 5
Affected Area: 150 foot radius around User
Duration: 1 Round
Saving Throw: Halves damage

The User causes stones to rain down in a 150-foot radius, inflicting 5d6 points of Lethal Damage to all other exposed Creatures in that area. No stones will fall on the User. The stones will persist and cover the Affected Area after falling.

Suffocate (Malediction)
Level: Incantation 2, Pact 2, Mad Invention 3, Preternatural Power 2
Affected Area: 1 Nearby Recipient
Duration: 10 Rounds
Saving Throw: Negates

The User makes a living being temporarily unable to breath, inflicting 2d6 points of Lethal Damage, plus 2d6 points of Nonlethal Damage. Nonliving, naturally incorporeal, or non-breathing Creatures (including most Spirits, but not Fairies) are immune to a Suffocate Effect.

Unbreakable Bargain – A Preternatural Effect For Ghastly Affair

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Ancient Folklore, Folklore, Free RPG, Ghastly Affair, gothic game, Gothic Gaming, Gothic Horror, Gothic Literature, Gothic Romance, Gothick, Magic, Medieval Folklore, Medieval Magic, Romantic Horror, Spells

An Unbreakable Bargain seems like a good idea… until you’re in one! Those foolish enough to make deals with Spirits may find themselves subject to the terms of such contracts.

Unbreakable Bargain (Fascination)
Level: Incantation 3, Ceremony 1, Preternatural Power 2
Affected Area: Two Creatures
Duration: Until fulfilled, within 1 month
Saving Throw: None

The User and Recipient create a bargain that cannot be broken by any means. No matter how either side may seek to prevent fulfilling their side of an Unbreakable Bargain, its terms will always be fulfilled within one month. For example, a Magician offers his left foot as part of an Unbreakable Bargain with a Demon who promises to resurrect the Magician’s dead wife. No matter how either side may try to break the Bargain, the Magician will lose his foot, and the Demon will bring the dead woman back to life. Even if the Magician tries to keep himself from all harm, fate will intervene to cause the loss of the foot. Likewise, even if the Demon wants to cheat the Magician he will wind up somehow causing the resurrection of the woman, in spite of himself. Unbreakable Bargains are very similar to magical Pacts, except that they can be used to force performance of any action, not just the creation of Preternatural Effects.

An Unbreakable Bargain cannot be coerced. Both parties must willingly accept it. The actions specified in the Unbreakable Bargain must always be ones within the power of the relevant party to accomplish. For example, a Fairy cannot enter into an Unbreakable Bargain to restore someone’s youth if the Fairy does not have the ability to do so.

Three New Preternatural Effects For Ghastly Affair

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Ancient Folklore, Folklore, Free RPG, Ghastly Affair, gothic game, Gothic Gaming, Gothic Horror, Gothic Literature, Gothic Romance, Gothick, Magic, Medieval Folklore, Medieval Magic, Romantic Horror, Spells

Promises of Knowledge, Skill, and Beauty are perfect for tempting unwary Characters to bargain with the powers of darkness.

Acquire Knowledge [Specific Field] (Divination)
Level: Ceremony 1, Talisman 4, Pact 2, Mad Invention 3, Preternatural Power 2
Affected Area: User or Recipient
Duration: Until Dawn
Saving Throw: None

The Recipient temporarily acquires knowledge equal to that of the best-informed expert in a field of study, such as English History or Biology. The character will need not make any Ability Check to recall information in the relevant area. The knowledge acquired is only that which is known at the current time. For example, if the Effect is used to Acquire Medical Knowledge during the Bloody Era the Recipient will know about the basic principle of inoculation, but will also believe that bleeding is an effective remedy. The Recipient will not acquire modern knowledge of genetic disorders, for example.

Acquire Skill [Specific Skill] (Blessing)
Level: Ceremony 1, Talisman 4, Pact 2, Mad Invention 3, Preternatural Power 2
Affected Area: User or Recipient
Duration: Until Dawn
Saving Throw: None

The Recipient becomes temporarily skilled in a particular field of endeavor, such as sculpture, shooting, or lock-picking. The Recipient can automatically perform ordinary tasks associated with the skill, and enjoys a +1 on Ability Checks to function exceptionally well (or under duress). If Acquire Skill is used to bestow a fighting-related skill (such as shooting, boxing or swordsmanship) it grants a +1 Bonus on appropriate Checks during fights.

There is a separate version of the Acquire Skill Effect for each field of endeavor. For example, one version of the Effect may make a Recipient a skilled equestrian, while another makes the Recipient a good dancer. Each version of the Effect must be located and learned separately.

Beautify (Glamor)
Level: Ceremony: 0, Pact 1, Talisman 3, Mad Invention 2, Preternatural Power 1
Affected Area: 1 Recipient.
Duration: Until Dawn
Saving Throw: None

The Recipient’s physical appearance is temporarily brought closer to their culture’s ideal of beauty, conferring the Asset “Beautiful”. The recipient is still recognizable, but their facial features and body characteristics will be subtly altered to be more desirable to others. For the typical inhabitant of the Old World during the Ghastly Age, that means that crooked, rotten teeth will be made straight and whole; facial features will be made more symmetrical; and any smallpox scars will be eliminated. Stooped postures will be corrected, and withered limbs will assume a healthy appearance (although paralyzed or otherwise useless limbs will remain so). All noxious bodily odors will be temporarily suppressed. Bodies will be reshaped to be closer to the forms of classical statues (but actual Strength, Dexterity, and Constitution scores remain unaffected). The Recipient receives a +3 Bonus in all situations where a positive first impression and physical beauty are important.

Beautify cannot be used as a method of disguise. The Recipient always remains recognizable, and will actually tend to attract attention.

The Incarnation of Demogorgon

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Ancient Folklore, Christian Folklore, Demon, Demons, Folklore, Ghastly Affair, gothic game, Gothic Gaming, Gothic Horror, Gothic Literature, Gothic Romance, Gothick, Infernal, Infernals, Medieval Folklore, Medieval Magic, OGL, Romantic Horror

“The Dreaded Name” Demogorgon is inspired by literary sources including Milton, Percy Shelley, and Voltaire. This is probably not the Demogorgon you think you know.

Demogorgon (The Dreaded Name)
A primordial demon-god whose name is not to be spoken.

Signs & Portents: The sound of strange music from no discernible source. Intermittently strong winds. People are gripped with either manic elation or hopeless melancholy.
Number Appearing: 1
Initial Impression(s): A turbulent black cloud of no definite form. An ancient man wearing golden robes, and a barbarically ornate crown of gold and enormous gems.
Size: Human-sized

Perversity: 30
Disposition: Aggressive or Friendly (equal chance per encounter)
Charisma: 20 Intelligence: 20 Wisdom: 20
Strength: 20 (or by form) Dexterity: 20 (or by form) Constitution: 20 (or by form)
Speed: 9 (or by form)

Armor Class: 10
Hit Dice: 20 (120 Hit Points)
Attacks: 1 (by weapon type)
Special Abilities: Demonic Characteristics, Creation
Weaknesses: Demonic Weaknesses, Limited Power Over Spirits, Sensitive to Ridicule
Assets: None
Afflictions: Insane
Preternatural Powers: All Maledictions, all 0 – 3rd Level, Divinations, Evocations, Fascinations, Glamors and Transmutations, but no Blessings.
Favored Preternatural Powers: Augury, Cause Critical Wounds, Confusion, Curse, Darkness, Infest Wounds, Prodigious Regurgitation, Rain of Fish, Rain of Flesh, Rain of Frogs, Summon Spirit III (Possessor Demon), Stinking Cloud

“The Dreaded Name” Demogorgon reigns from throne of pure black stone deep within the highest mountain on Earth. Utterly insane, Demogorgon claims to be the creator of the Earth, its ultimate sovereign, and also the force that will eventually destroy all of creation. It also claims to be the Lord of Fate. According to certain stories, the being is the offspring of Chaos and Night – others state it to be the child of the god Jupiter, or a mysterious entity called “The Demiurge”. Apparently, Demogorgon has remained (or been trapped) in its current Incarnation for at least several thousand years, and perhaps since before the Earth came into being.

Every five years The Incarnation of Demogorgon calls all the lesser Spirits dwelling on Earth to pay homage to it. It should be noted that unlike other Incarnations, Demogorgon can Summon, Bind and Banish Spirits of any type (up to Level 5), as long as they are already in the Mundane World. Naturally, the Fairies (who enjoy living away from their native Otherworld) are the ones most affected.

It is said that Demogorgon can hear its name whenever it is spoken, and wise people avoid saying it.

Special Abilities:

Creation: If it takes no other actions, Demogorgon can create any object, material, or non-supernatural creature it desires, at the rate of a 10′ cubical section per minute. It could create a carriage, a lady’s gown, or a tiger, for example. Given enough time, for example, Demogorgon could create a palace. It claims to have created the Earth itself in this way.

Paradoxically, Demogorgon can create items made of iron or salt, although he will not touch them thereafter. Things created by the Incarnation of Demogorgon endure for their normal lifespans, or until the material form of their creator is defeated or destroyed.

Demonic Characteristics: Demogorgon is immune to all weapons, except those which are made of iron, blessed, or otherwise enchanted. It cannot be harmed by acid, cold, disease, or any Special Ability or Preternatural Effect which target minds or emotions. “The Dreaded Name” can see perfectly regardless of illumination, is immune to blindness or any other debility caused by extremely bright light, retains the ability to distinguish colors in conditions of total darkness, and does not need time to adjust its eyes to changing light. Demogorgon can speak, write, and understand all languages and forms of communication.

Weaknesses:

Demonic Weaknesses: Demogorgon is burned by holy water as if it was acid, cannot enter holy ground or touch blessed objects, and is subject to the power of Faith. It is Vulnerable to Iron, and will not voluntarily touch it. Additionally, Demogorgon is repelled by pure crystalline salt. The being is susceptible to all Preternatural Effects that target spiritual entities. The entire Nearby Area around Demogorgon is discernibly cold.

Limited Power Over Spirits: While Demogorgon can use Summon Spirit, Banish Spirit, and Bind Spirit against Spirits of any type, he can only do so if the Spirit is already on the Earth. He can Summon a Possessor Demon that is inhabiting a nun in France, for example, but not snatch an Imp from out of Hell.

Sensitive to Ridicule: Demogorgon cannot bear to be ridiculed. If subjected to a full minute (6 Rounds) of uninterrupted insults and belittlement by a single person who is doing nothing else, Demogorgon will be defeated. Of course, any being who attempts to ridicule Demogorgon will have to survive for a full minute while the demon-god does everything in its power to stop them. If Demogorgon is to be believed, the Earth itself will also be destroyed along with his Incarnation. Of course, the demon-god might be lying…

The Incarnation of Lucifer

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Ancient Folklore, Angel, Angels, Christian Folklore, Demon, Demons, Devil, Fallen Angels, Folklore, Ghastly Affair, gothic game, Gothic Gaming, Gothic Horror, Gothic Literature, Gothic Romance, Gothick, Hebrew Folklore, Hell, Infernal, Infernals, Medieval Folklore, OGL, role-playing game, Romantic Horror

Authors from Milton to Baudelaire have been intrigued by the tragic character of Lucifer, a former creature of light brought down by his own pride and ambition. The Devil’s Incarnation might appear and offer to help the characters out of seemingly inextricable trouble, asking merely for their souls in exchange. Perhaps his endless schemes are actually the ultimate source of their problems. Maybe his true agenda is to gain the love of an innocent whose purity and beauty remind him of long lost Heaven.

Lucifer (The Devil, Satan, The Archfiend of Pride, The Son of the Morning, The Father of Lies, Lord of This World, Emperor of Hell)
The ruler of the infernal realm.

Signs & Portents: A whiff of sulfur. A crack of thunder, and a lightning strike. Bats, rats, wolves, cats, goats, and crows in the area will become aggressive and attack any people they encounter. There will be a noticeable increase in betrayal, deception, and venery. Note that these Signs and Portents do not occur if Lucifer has allowed himself to be temporarily redeemed by a True Innocent’s love (see below).
Initial Impression: A handsome and well-dressed man with red skin and small horns. A handsome man dressed in the height of fashion. A red-skinned satyr with bat-like wings and a barbed tail. A blond and blue-eyed child. A crowned, black-winged angel surrounded by a nimbus of light. In all his forms, Lucifer usually bears a trident, but may carry a dueling sword instead.
Size: Human-sized

Perversity: 25
Disposition: Scheming
Charisma: 20 Intelligence: 20 Wisdom: 20
Strength: 20 Dexterity: 20 Constitution: 20
Speed: 9

Armor Class: 10
Hit Dice: 20 (120 Hit Points)
Attacks: 1 (weapon, usually a trident)
Special Abilities: Diabolical Characteristics, Infernal Bargain
Weaknesses: Diabolical Weaknesses, Limited Power Over Spirits, Must Accept Challenges
Assets: Artist of All Media; Brilliant Debater; Connoisseur of All Art, Food, and Drink; Good Shot; Great Dancer; Great Singing Voice; Handsome; Master Swordsman; Musician of All Instruments, Seductive, Skilled Lawyer
Afflictions: Easily Angered, Extreme Arrogance
Preternatural Powers: All Fascinations, all 0 – 3rd Level Blessings, Evocations, Glamors, Maledictions, and Transmutations, but no Divinations.
Favored Preternatural Powers: Alter Self, Charm Person, Inflict Love, Fame, Fly, Mass Confusion, Overwhelming Fear, Phantasmagoria III, Suggestion, Summon Dark Beast

Natural Habitat: A barbarically splendid palace in the lowest pit of Hell. Masquerade balls and salons. Ballets and opera performances. Musical performances and art expositions. Any place of power and prestige.
Level: 10

Once the greatest and most beautiful of the angels, Lucifer is now dedicated to thwarting the Divine Will wherever he can. Despite being the prime adversary of humanity, he is also the Archfiend whose desires and feelings are closest to those of people. He is extremely well mannered, a brilliant conversationalist, and has a great sense of humor (except about himself). He is the only diabolical being who can incarnate and leave Hell without being Summoned, and may do so for other purpose than to attend the opera. He is even known to fall in love. Lucifer is supremely comfortable in human High Society. Some say he created it.

Lucifer represents the most insidious form of evil. He is a master manipulator, and even good people will go along with his reasonable-seeming propositions. Lucifer will present his schemes as being mostly beneficial, or at least preferable to the plans of more obviously destructive entities (such as The Dreaded Name Demogorgon). He inspires sympathy by presenting himself as a tragic victim of Divine injustice, and a fellow sufferer at the hands of a hypocritical God. Gradually, however, those who succumb to his charms find themselves increasingly Lucifer’s slaves, and all the worse off because they willingly submitted.

Lucifer is the proudest being in the Universe, and will insist upon being treated with the utmost courtesy. Unlike most of his diabolical subjects, who are monstrously brutal beings fond of abusive and obscene threats, Lucifer is a suave and urbane schemer. It takes only a single insult, though, for Lucifer to fly into an implacable rage.

Lucifer cannot resist beautiful young women of exceptional virtue. Some speculate that periods of great peace and happiness on Earth correspond to the times when Lucifer has allowed himself to temporarily redeemed by the love of a True Innocent. Then he will resume his once-benevolent in character, teaching people to improve their lives and perfect their talents. Note that Lucifer will never try to Inflict Love on a person he truly cares for, but will desire that their feeling for him be genuine. Inevitably, however, Lucifer’s beloved will die or become corrupted, and he will return all-the-more fiercely to his war on mankind and the forces of Heaven.

Lucifer is obsessed with producing the Antichrist, a son who rule the Mundane World and defeat the forces of Heaven on Earth. So far, all of his children have failed, but the Devil is nothing if not persistent.

Lucifer’s power is constantly challenged by Beelzebub, the “Lord of the Flies” who is the Archfiend of Gluttony.

Special Abilities:

Diabolical Characteristics: Lucifer is immune to all weapons, except those which are made of silver, consecrated, or otherwise enchanted. He cannot be harmed by fire, poison, disease, or any Special Ability or Preternatural Effect which target minds or emotions. He can see perfectly regardless of illumination, is immune to blindness or any other debility caused by extremely bright light, retains the ability to distinguish colors in conditions of total darkness, and does not need time to adjust his eyes to changing light. He can speak, write, and understand all languages and forms of communication.

Infernal Bargain: Lucifer can grant almost any imaginable wish or desire to another, provided the recipient willingly signs a contract condemning their soul to Hell after their death. The contract must be signed in the person’s blood, and usually specifies the remaining term of their life (generally 6 years). The Devil specializes in granting enormous wealth, and raising the damned to positions of great power. Those who would sell their souls should be aware that Lucifer will adhere strictly to the letter of a contract, while perverting it’s spirit at every opportunity. A man who becomes Emperor of the World, for example, may find his reign troubled by incessant rebellion, and himself subject to constant assassination attempts.

Note that Lucifer can grant simple Fame without the need for a contract, if he so chooses.

Weaknesses:

Diabolical Weaknesses: Lucifer is burned by holy water as if it was acid, cannot enter holy ground or touch blessed objects, and is subject to the power of Faith. He is Vulnerable to Silver, and will not voluntarily touch it. He is susceptible to all Preternatural Effects that target spiritual entities. Additionally, the Lucifer’s initial appearance will cause the entire Nearby Area to momentarily smell like burning sulfur.

Limited Power Over Spirits: Lucifer can only target his fellow Devils when he employs the following Preternatural Powers: Banish Spirit, Bind Spirit, Summon Spirit.

Must Accept Challenges: Lucifer’s pride compels him to accept any challenge to a one-on-one contest of weapons, artistic ability, or connoisseurship. The stakes will always be the same. If the mortal wins, Lucifer is defeated, and banished back to Hell. If Lucifer wins he will also return to Hell, but will take the challenger, body and soul! Unlike Death (who will also accept challenges), Lucifer will not wager on things like horse races, or bet on games of chance. He will only engage in contests of pure skill and ability.