01 - The Curse of Chaugnar Faugn - Old Flames
Summary
The Grizzly Peaks Radio crew begins a new Call of Cthulhu campaign, "The Curse of Chogna Fawn," set in 1925 New York City. The episode introduces three investigators: Darius Blaze, a British author; Tilly Price, a photojournalist; and John, a medical intern. They are summoned by Violet Staunton, John’s former love, who reveals her archaeologist father is deteriorating after bringing back a cursed idol from Tibet. Violet describes terrifying visions and an attack by a mysterious figure, prompting the group to investigate the mystery surrounding the Elephant God of Tsang.
Topics discussed
Introduction and the 'Two-Headed Serpent' crew
Source material: The Cthulhu Casebook (1985/86)
Character prerequisites and group composition
Scene setting: Darius Blaze's tenement apartment
Darius's background and British accent attempt
Tilly's arrival and the headless body
Tilly's character description and profession
The telegram from Violet Staunton
Violet's backstory and the poetry night
Darius and Violet's past relationship
Professor Staunton's expedition and controversy
Recalling a previous 'damsel in distress' run
Darius's prize possessions from past investigations
Violet arrives at the apartment
Introductions and Violet's request for help
The Elephant God of Tsang and the museum
The argument with Uncle Paul Riccoletti
Professor Staunton's deteriorating health
Strange words: Lang and Chognophon
Violet's nightmares and panic attack
Tilly's photography and the scene's emotion
The intruder in the father's room
Plan to visit the father and meet Riccoletti
Reconciliation between Darius and Violet
Newspaper report: Horror at the Museum
Description of the grotesque statue
Silly season news: Dragon in Central Park
Discussion on nomenclature and the dragon
Research at the New York Public Library
Werewolf dentist article and James Anderson
Academic trouble and university identification
Travel to Columbia/Morningside Heights
Montage of medical supplies and Bengay
Closing thoughts on the love triangle
Patreon thank yous and episode outro
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