The Department of Supernatural Affairs (DOSA)

A world where governments battle to put their flag on every supernatural phenomena and location.

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Posted by GreyCrownedKi, 4 days, 4 hours ago. Permalink

Recovering What's Lost.

You find a hand written note on an A5 piece of lined paper. It's crumbled in transit and has no sender nor intended receiver. It alongside 3 other copies are written with scratchy but readable handwriting, all the letters etched in capitals. The author is not going to win any cartography classes any time soon. 

I presume you've heard. We recently acquired La Arena del Reloj from those bitter at our freedom. The suited's mourning shall be our celebration. Speaking of celebrations: gather at The Old Court, 9 'o' clock at night and bear witness to the strengthening of our roots and the creation of all new ones. The most lucid wakening in our history and I get to forefront it. Who knows what 'Who we've lost' will want to share with us, teach us and mold us by.
Bring arms, assume we're expecting uninvited guests but either way we've brought something to shoot at. Bring drink, and as many trinkets as you deem fit. Just remember; No food meats, corpses or large animals. Sorry fellow Hunters, yes that means no companions. It may be our settlement now but it's yet to be our territory.
I presume you've also seen or maybe even reaped the benefits of that plane we dropped yesterday, the commercial one. A lot of good shit there, show them this note after the wakening to get your hands on some. Funny note but I will never grow tired of watching a lost westerner fall to our animals, the immediate joy in their eyes as they see a magnificient dinosaur followed by such horror: Amazing. 
On a much more sad note: Yes I know about Britney and Alex of the Sirens both going missing. The cases are directly connected I can PROMISE you that, but don't worry. We hunters swear to it that they will be safely returned to their sisters before the event. In fact some of my finest men already made flight towards that "Admission Camp" the Badged British Bastards leave so very open. 

Old Court - 9PM, Be There. 

Latest Journals

2 days, 10 hours ago: Justin Case wrote a Downtime Journal for A Pterrible Morning

Small Frame, Big Brain - Part 2

Eventually we made it to this impromptu recon base. It was quite literally a plastic and metal shack, bound together. This is where I believe I was being played for a fool, and without dear old Uncle Ben to impose authority, they had their way with me abused my small stature. These men pointed to the vent of this shack, which was how their A/C was functioning. They then stood beneath it, offering a boost. I had to commit at this point. I had to endure the smirks and giggles as I got into that vent. It wouldn't have fit a normal sized person in there, but of course I am not a normal sized person. I could hear the bastards giggling like school girls outside, shushing themselves to keep quiet. Did they cause a distraction? They did not. I swore to myself in those vents that I would have my revenge.

Inside the shack, I lowered myself down from the vents, looking at a man sleeping at a desk, face down. It was rather easy to snatch some of his paper at the desk without waking him up. His handwriting was a little scruffy, but I made out what he was trying to say. The Flagless had been planning a large gathering, and I now had the date and time of that gathering, and where it was taking place. Once again I must put forward that I am of course incredibly skilled at all things. Discovering this gathering was second-nature to me, just like how planning my revenge was also second nature. I could not reach the ventilation system again, so I instead decided to creep outside, around the shack and to the Jeep. My new friends - Or should I say enemies - that brought me here were still giggling, so that's when I decided to cut the brakes of the vehicle, just like I did in Underbay. The car slowly rolled backwards, further and further. A large crashing noise echoed around the jungle area we were in, as the Jeep went straight through the plastic and metal walls. I took the opportunity to make a run for it. But my friends were not so quick. I'm still not quite sure what happened to those two guys. Whatever happened though, they will now know not to laugh at me again.

I got back to camp eventually, and boy it was a shock. Shit had gone down.

 6 days, 4 hours ago: Uncle ben wrote a Downtime Journal for A Pterrible Morning

D-day flashbacks

It was then we discovered several boats coming towards the dock. I quickly dispatched two boats by targeting the motor while the third was able to land. What followed can only be described as a reenactment of the D-Day landings as we Swiftly gunned Down any interlopers. On the original boat that was shot was then left after his Companions were air lifted out by another large pigeon like creature while I had him in my scope. I saw the look of dejection and it was then that the Lord spoke to me and told me not to take his life So knocked him out with a rubber round. This may have saved him as his companions entered our homebase through the forest and were swiftly dealt with after the fight we checked and gathered all of the bodies by the dock and continued our search for the general. It was then the general and Mr. Case Found tinge and laughing which abruptly ended once they found the base was a scene of battle.

 2 weeks, 1 day ago: Danny Plentitude wrote a Downtime Journal for Theropod Hour

What is America?

It's a country. A feeling. A state of existence. At least, that's what I thought. Being on this island is making me realise that America is alone in some ways. For example, a pledge to the flag in the morning, before work begins. No other place does that. Even lands ruled by Kings and Queens don't recite a pledge to the monarchy. Which gets me thinking. Why am I so patriotic to America?

 

I am a businessman, with my hands in things around the world. America, as the years have gone on, has begun to become more corrupt. Politics seems more important than ever. It worries me.

 

I don't have a wife, a child or a family. To recount why would take too long. But, if I was a parent to a child within America, would I be giving the chance in life they deserve? 

 

These are merely musings. Think nothing of it. 
2 weeks, 6 days ago: Justin Case wrote a Downtime Journal for You Wouldn't Steal a Pirate

Confronting The Truth

As I've stated many times, and perhaps what is quite known about me - I don't have much in terms of friends. I was comfortable with this, focusing on my fame and fortune. I used people for my own gain, and had a clear conscience - I still do. However, as I spend more and more time with my fellow compatriots, I've been struggling with my own thoughts, fighting a battle of my own inside my head. These people I've come to know for the past week or so are unique. They're different. Yes, sometimes they are quite unpredictable, maybe outright insane. But, they're entertaining. They all have their own troubles, but we're all united for one sole purpose, united through this contract we all signed. United through these gifts.

It begs the question - Are these my allies, or perhaps more than that? I oppose the idea of having friendships, it can always lead to betrayal. And, betrayal, I despise with every fibre of my being. But, I must admit, I've come to rather enjoy their company. Whilst in Underbay, Danny sent some Eagle to defend me against any harm. Why would he do that? What would compel him to act so selflessly to make sure that no harm would befall me? I'm not sure, but my instincts point to the fact that maybe these people actually care about my own wellbeing. Isn't that what friends do? Ah, anyway, no point getting muddled up in all these fruitless theories. We have a job to do. When this is all said and done, I'll return to my day-to-day routine, and forget this ever happened.

 3 weeks ago: Uncle ben wrote a Downtime Journal for You Wouldn't Steal a Pirate

He pointed the way

Pt2. Of course, I did not move because I do not unless commanded by ilsan al gaieeb. He did so do I went out a carried his order, I came across Andre being manhandled by a small woman. She seemed to want to plunge into a dark hole. I quickly told her that it would be a waste of the precious life source in his body that is water. She seemed to understand and took him away instead. I fetched the ‘spannir’ and completed my task given to me by Maudeeb. After some further conversations, we eventually ended up talking to the small woman, just myself and the great prophet. She seemed to want to try swaying my loyalty towards her but she failed, my faith only belongs to Islan Al Gaieeb. Eventually, a fight broke out which we quickly subdued the small woman and her sister and fled in a metal box with wheels.

 3 weeks ago: Justin Case wrote a Downtime Journal for Theropod Hour

Even More Downtime

Downtime, Downtime, Downtime. Is this the same period of time that I have already been down for? Yes. Does the General care? No! And so, I shall write more for this man.

He intimidates me. To be fair, most things do. I'm like 4"6 (Round it up to 5"0). Especially things that I can't just shoot. The man definitely has some sort of secret energy bubble that will squash me like a bug if I even attempt to harm him. I bet the man also has 10 locked iron doors just to enter his front garden. He strikes me as the no-nonsense type. But, he's generous with letting us act like complete morons. Apparently he hand-picked us or something? I'm sorry, but what a random group of rag-tag allies we all are. Not that I'm necessarily complaining. Ever since I joined up, I've experienced power that is quite frankly addicting.

 3 weeks ago: Justin Case wrote a Downtime Journal for Dead Air Tells No Air

Life, Death and Uncle Ben

Contrary to the performance my good fellow Uncle Ben puts on, he can provide some very good wisdom if you ask the right questions. On our way back towards the camp, I found myself conversating with the man (Or this time, Grandma Ruckus?) about all things life. It was insightful. I discovered that he has endless bounds of information that may spurt out between each 'character'. Each character has vastly different views, personality and styles to them. One day he may tell you that a meteor is coming down to Earth and that we must take shelter, the next he may tell you to Storm Normandy with him and end the war. The man never breaks character either, so I may have to resort to a set of questions, and ask that set of questions everyday to the new character. I will be very interested to hear the results and then compare them. 

 

Whilst in-between the contracts, It might provide much needed entertainment. Perhaps I can find a way to influence what character he may take on next? I don't know....It's probably not possible, but I guess it's something to do between missions.

 3 weeks ago: Justin Case wrote a Downtime Journal for Nightmare on Olm Street

Reuniting With The Troops

After all that tomfoolery nonsense with my briefcase, I headed back into camp. And boy, apart of me appreciates missing that mission.

Uncle Ben was nattering on about some foxhounds and racially abusing minorities? He then spoke briefly to me about American's leaving the Empire? 

Danny looked like hell too. The man was barely standing on his own. His awesome suit was all mucked up as well. I almost pitied him, but an opportunity presented itself. I should buy some cheaply made suit, spray paint it red, white and blue, then flog it to him for triple the price. He's absolutely minted - He won't be bothered about spending a fortune on a new suit!...Or maybe, just maybe, I shouldn't do such a thing because I'm rather fond of Danny.....Na, I'll flog him a suit.

I didn't talk much to Selene, she seemed pretty quiet. No sassy remarks, no snarky looks. It was like when the family dog runs away. You're desperate for it to return, and whilst it's gone, nothing really feels the same.

 

Anyway, I tried informing the group about my perilous expedition to retrieve my briefcase. They were not so interested as I had first presumed.

I will say this. A part of me is glad they're all ok. I can't do any of this by myself. I'm not really sure how to process these feelings. Perhaps they're becoming my friends? is there really more in this world than just clients and the courts for me?

 

Latest Completed Contracts

7 Contracts have been run in this Playgroup

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Earth, Modern day

The year is 2025: the world had been mapped, humans have risen to space, sunk to the deepest depths of oceans. Governments of all nations debate and argue over claiming any unclaimed phenomena leading them to the strangest places. Cryptozoology, Folklore and Mythos join the potential spoils to battle over.

House Rules

Contractors from The Department of Supernatural Affairs (DOSA) Are NOT portable, and may NOT visit other Playgroups to participate in Contracts.
The Department of Supernatural Affairs (DOSA) grants 6 Experience points to GMs who achieve the Golden Ratio.

1. Scheduling:

  1. Sessions will be held every Thursday or Friday unless stated otherwise.
  2. If we are missing 2 or more players that session, the remaining players are forbidden from starting new main missions. Already began main missions are fair game.
  3. If we are missing 1 player, it is up to the missing player to decide on whether the remaining players can start new main missions.

2. Campaign Structure:

  1. The Contract RPG™ system is designed with episodic sessions in mind. Think continuous DnD One-Shots with returning characters, rather than long form campaigns like in typical DnD. This playgroup is an attempt to explore how a long form campaign could work in this system and to introduce you guys to my favourite system.
  2. Throughout the campaign main missions and side missions will be uncovered. Some Side missions will be written whilst others may be entirely invented via player drive to do something, go down any rabbit hole you desire. 
    1. Main missions: All main missions will always grant the players a gift point (via a victory) and/or trophy alongside giving pushing the narrative forwards. These are longer missions and may take multiple sessions depending on your pace
    2. Side missions: Not all side missions will grant the players with a trophy but will usually give the players a gift point and experience (via a contract victory). Side missions may not directly push narrative forward but may make main missions easier in the form of clues, trophies or party members. 
  3. This is a new system for most of you so please please please ask questions when you have them. 

3. Rules on Gifts:

  1. Gift are what make your character extra special, go wild and crazy.
  2. Make your gifts whatever you want, you can focus on flavour and find what best fits your backstory or you can completely min max this and make yourself as powerful as possible, whatever sounds fun to you: do that.
  3. Rule of Cool for Gifts will often come over actual gift mechanic, with flavour being in the foreground. This works both ways though, if you put in your gift description that you must speak to activate it yet it doesnt say that in the mechanics, we gotta follow the flavour muhaha.
  4. Gift points earned from main missions and accumulated from side missions will be granted to players via victories. Victories give a singular gift point and a small dosage of experience. More importantly, victories push your character towards becoming Seasoned and then eventually Veteran, which are ranks that allow you to choose more powerful gift types and gift enhancements.
  5. Please do not use seasoned and veteran gift types or enhancements without GM permission.
  6. Please do not improve, change or grant new gifts during a side or main mission with GM permission. Do this between sessions or at the end of a mission. 
  7. Please keep track of your gift costs (usually an exertion of mind or source), that is your responsibility as the player, not the GM (honest mistakes are ok though, its a brand new system for most of you).
  8. Please become familiar with your gifts, purely just to make it easier for the GM. Feel free to ask questions.

4. Changes to the system (WIP):

  1. Player Recap Act 2005
    1. At the start of every session, the GM will ask the players for one of them to recap what happened previously. The first volunteer will receive a Moxie token upon the recap.
    2. Moxie tokens are tokens that remain on a player until spent or until the end of that session. A player cannot hold onto more than one Moxie token at a time.
    3. Moxie tokens have the following effects when spent:
      1. 1-4 Victories: Counts as an exertion for that round (AND ignoring penalty, adding +1 Outcome).
      2. 10-24 Victories: The roll cannot be Botched.
      3. 25+ Victories: If applicable, Will to Survive is reset for the current mission.
  2. Repeated Action (Non-Combat) Act 1993
    1. A character attempting the same non-combat action under identical conditions will always achieve the same result. To attempt again, something meaningful must change. A new tool, a circumstance, a piece of knowledge, or external assistance. The world is not a slot machine; it's a puzzle to be outwitted.

    2. As combat is inherently fluid and reactive, players may repeat actions freely; circumstances are assumed to shift moment by moment, even if subtly.

  3. Manipulation of Alien Fauna Act 2025
    1. For any sessions taking place on Islas Buitres, any gift with a seasoned enhancement allowing the player to manipulate, control, possess or suggest towards Alien Creatures can be taken at novice (4+ victories), rather than seasoned (10+ victories). 
    2. For context on what an Alien Creature is for Islas Buitres: vaguely, anything that does not exist in real life; more specifically, dinosaurs, pterosaurs, giant equilavents of real species (Cave dragons, Buitrean arowana, man-eater owls).

Full Setting Description

We wouldn't be doing our job well if we told you.

World Events

Posted by GreyCrownedKi, 4 days, 4 hours ago. Permalink

Recovering What's Lost.

You find a hand written note on an A5 piece of lined paper. It's crumbled in transit and has no sender nor intended receiver. It alongside 3 other copies are written with scratchy but readable handwriting, all the letters etched in capitals. The author is not going to win any cartography classes any time soon. 

I presume you've heard. We recently acquired La Arena del Reloj from those bitter at our freedom. The suited's mourning shall be our celebration. Speaking of celebrations: gather at The Old Court, 9 'o' clock at night and bear witness to the strengthening of our roots and the creation of all new ones. The most lucid wakening in our history and I get to forefront it. Who knows what 'Who we've lost' will want to share with us, teach us and mold us by.
Bring arms, assume we're expecting uninvited guests but either way we've brought something to shoot at. Bring drink, and as many trinkets as you deem fit. Just remember; No food meats, corpses or large animals. Sorry fellow Hunters, yes that means no companions. It may be our settlement now but it's yet to be our territory.
I presume you've also seen or maybe even reaped the benefits of that plane we dropped yesterday, the commercial one. A lot of good shit there, show them this note after the wakening to get your hands on some. Funny note but I will never grow tired of watching a lost westerner fall to our animals, the immediate joy in their eyes as they see a magnificient dinosaur followed by such horror: Amazing. 
On a much more sad note: Yes I know about Britney and Alex of the Sirens both going missing. The cases are directly connected I can PROMISE you that, but don't worry. We hunters swear to it that they will be safely returned to their sisters before the event. In fact some of my finest men already made flight towards that "Admission Camp" the Badged British Bastards leave so very open. 

Old Court - 9PM, Be There. 

View all World Events