Trellus Tuesday April 20th, 2004 4:58:35 PM
The cleric isn't particularly pleased with that white handed halfling either. However, he really can't just let him die, especially if the treadle knows something.
So, if he's not stable, Trellus casts another cure minor wounds to get him that way. But Grymash is more than welcome to tie him up and stuff him in a bag. Might do him some good.
"I've five healing potions," he announces to the group. "If you don't have one, take one of mine. You dudes need some way to heal yourselves if we get split up again."
Trellus can do nothing now but wait. He looks on as the short crew takes the prize ship back to Rattledam. And he glances over the front of the boat to see if they're gaining on the other dudes. But mostly, he waits for one of these two to wake up.
Anuk Tuesday April 20th, 2004 8:25:20 PM
Anuk manages to locate Twinge, who is basking in the sunlight near a pile of crates. Anuk hisses softly at him then says, "C'mere you." He grins as the snake moves from his resting place to perch on Anuk's shoulder. "You know, I think next time we're home I'd better spend some time teaching you about fighting. I just sorta figured it'd be natural for you, but it sure doesn't seem that way." The green viper flicks it's tongue and looks on impassively.
Anuk joins the rest of the pack, anxious to hear if the prisoners have any news.
DM George Tuesday April 20th, 2004 9:49:07 PM
Grymash strips down his halfing friend and sticks him in a sack. Trellus casts a small cure on him, but he is still unconcious, but seems on the verge of waking up as he goes into the sack.
More looking around for magic reveals the halflings shortbow, 7 arrows, some bracers and boots. Upon further scan you see the gnoll leader had a magic battleaxe and shield.
The crew gets the ship underway but the first mate starts pressing you into duties. "Flea you seem comfortable with heights, please help up top. You two seem strong (pointing at Grymash and Mac) could you take the tillers for now. That is all the help I need for now but you others might need to help in relief later."
The ship gets underway, and starts to chase after the other ship which has a big head start.
Flea Tuesday April 20th, 2004 10:28:17 PM
Flea waves her acknowledgement to the first mate from her position high atop the main mast. She secures herself by wrapping one of the lines around her leg and helps unfurl the sails as directed. Grymash and Mac, who usually tower over her, look small and insignificant from her new vantage. Once underway, the rogue keeps a steady eye on the horizon and tries to guage if they are closing on the other vessel. [Take 20 on Search = 31]
Gilan Tuesday April 20th, 2004 11:17:23 PM
Gilan gives Gry a smile. "Hey big guy, don't worry about it." He looks to the mage to see what she may say about the questions asked.
Glancing to the firstmate as he asks for help of some of the Bloodpack, he simply nods at the comment of helping out later. He turns his attention back to the matters at hand. "I have a few extra healing potions of my own if anyone is interested...just ask." He thinks it might be a good idea if they can spread out some more of the healing.
Tishe' Wednesday April 21st, 2004 12:37:03 AM
The small woman seems dissappointed that the new Captain didn't ask for her help, but one of the first things she learned when sailing was the Captain is the Captain. And besides, there are many other interesting things happening...
A mild reproving look goes across her face on seeing the callous way the prisoners are used. "On the otherhand," she says talking quietly to herself, "I can't see them getting away untless either have very good teeth."
But she is distracted from the prisoners by the small pile of magic items collected by Gilan and Grymash. With Grymash enlisted for the tiller, Tishe' moves up next to the druid.
"Gilan, how does the Bloodpack distribute magical booty? Some of this may help in the battle ahead."
Tishe' (2) Wednesday April 21st, 2004 12:38:09 AM
"I'd be interested in looking at that ring."
Jake Wednesday April 21st, 2004 1:22:06 AM
The lean half-elf watches the others move about. This whole ship is a mystery to him, he thinks, but he tries to give a hand to the sailors when he can. As it is, though, he's mostly useless, and he knows it. He looks at the halfling in the sack, and grimaces. Is that really what a raider is? He goes over to the woman tied to the mast and looks at her face closely. Is this what the evil worshippers are? He glares at her... and slaps her, while she's helpless. Damned raiders! He takes a few breaths, somewhat ashamed. At losing control of himself, not at his hatred of the woman, and all she stands for. "Why don't we just toss them in the grass...? Give back to the Plains. It'll speed us up, getting rid of the balast?"
Mac Wednesday April 21st, 2004 12:00:29 PM
The taur heads aft and takes turn at one of the tillers. He looks at Jake after his suggestion. If this is a vote then Jake doesn't have his support on that call.
Trellus Wednesday April 21st, 2004 6:52:41 PM
The blond cleric takes a deep, cleansing breath as he runs his right hand up the back of his neck.
"We can't Jake," he says quietly, but with conviction. "I got no problem killing them in a fight, but they're not going anywhere now.
Plus the beaters'll want 'em.
And they might still tell us what those other dudes are weaving."
Trellus looks sourly at the halfling and mage, another version of rapke intent on cutting his family's thread, and sighs.
"Just leave them be."
The cleric takes up a position to keep both of the prisoners in plain sight, and answers Tishe's question.
"Usually we try to figure out what the stuff is, and split it up later," he says. "You can weave whatever you like until then."
Catching Grymash out of the corner of his eye, the young man suddenly grins widely.
"We're not as keen on weaving unknown stuff as we used to be," he chuckles.
Grymash Wednesday April 21st, 2004 8:24:14 PM
Grymash while concentrating on his new task at the tiller, it finally dawns on him. "Gry be sailin'?! GRY BE SAILIN', HEE HEE HEE!! Dis shaaaddy!" He seems almost giddy after forgetting about their current mission for just a short moment. Only Jake's slap draws him back. "Whut Jake, she turns ya down too, huh?" Gry says laughingly, "Look, Gry be SAILIN'!!"
Anuk Wednesday April 21st, 2004 8:30:59 PM
As they get underway Anuk gladly gives the sailors any help they need. He stops at the bottom of Flea's mast and calls up, "How's the weather up there?"
When he has a moment, he pulls the ioun stone from his cloak and tells Trellus and Tishe', "There's room for a couple of extra spells in here. Got anything shady you'd like to add?"
DM George Wednesday April 21st, 2004 10:15:32 PM
The ship sails on throughout the day. Though the raider's ship seems to be of the same design as the Grass Swift is slowly starts to pull away. It isn't very obvious but they are making slightly better time.
The prisoners are quiet for most of the day but at the end of the day, the sack with the halfling starts to thrash about and the halfling starts to weakly yell.
The new captain does rotate crew around and he pulls Tishe aside and says, "You seem to know something about ships. I want you to become my first mate temporarily. I need someone on deck at night who knows what they are doing. Will you take this task?"
Flea Wednesday April 21st, 2004 11:01:54 PM
Flea shouts down to Anuk "Yo-ho-ho! Looks like fine sailing ahead." She stays atop until the light begins to fade before descending to the deck. She pulls aside the first mate "I don't think we are catching them" she says.
Flea wanders over to the pile of treasure on the deck and pokes through it with her dagger.
Gilan Wednesday April 21st, 2004 11:04:46 PM
Gilan glances to Tishe' but Trellus beats him to the punch and he simply nods. "He is right though, it may not be a good idea to mess with stuff too much till it is identified." He glances to Gry and shivers at the thought of another mishap.
He makes his way to the railing and watches the other ship. "Is it just me or is she getting further away from us?" This does bother him to a point, if they do not catch this ship they will find out nothing...worse yet they will not stop anything either.
He will work at whatever tasks the new captain gives him. He smiles at Gry as he goes on about his sailing and shakes his head. "It is good to forget the real problems for a time." Looking to the trashing bag he frowns and then moves that way. Not an overly violent type of person he still kicks the bag rather hard. "Shut your mouth or I introduce you to Gry again...you know the big guy that nearly cut your thread." He then goes back to his time studying the outlying plains.
[Anything of interest from a druids standpoint; ex. animals and the like?]
[Sounds like a new spell list to come too.]
Tishe' Thursday April 22nd, 2004 1:11:47 AM
"Oh" says the plain-faced woman to Trellus and Gilan, curiosity piqued at the references to some past mishap. "I would think anything these beaters were wearing would be fine." She shrugs and lets the treasure be stuffed in a bag for later.
Tishe' smiles at Grymash's unrestrained glee, and tucks an errant lock of wavy brown hair back into her pony tail as she turns to Anuk. "I can put a Spider Climb or Endure Elements in your stone, Anuk. With a little preparation, a magic missle spell."
She watches the other barge slowly increase the distance from the GrassSwift. "We've got damage. Perhaps they have more sail, or just a larger crew to capture every ounce of wind." She shakes her head. "I don't know what to do to help, but maybe if we know what direction they're going, we can beter prepare."
With only wearing a halter and trews, Tishe's blush is easily seen down past her shoulders. It nearly touches the blood red sash about her waist. "First mate on a grass merchant? Wow! But that's a big responsibility." She sobers a little "I do know something of sailing," agrees Tishe' slowly, "and I'll do the best I can. Means I need some sleep now, though." She goes to the hold to rest.
Jake Thursday April 22nd, 2004 3:13:37 AM
At one point in the day, Joe will mention to Trellus he does need a few hits of that healing stick, as he's currently still wandering around pretty battered and bruised. (Hope to get a few healed before the following) Jake listens to the sack yelp, so he wanders on over and pokes it slightly. "Hey, quit moving, ya little creep. I might just open it up for a little fresh air, if you tell us who you are and what you were doing 'bout our city."
Trellus 2d8(7+1)+3=11 d8=1 d8=6 2d8(2+6)+3=11 Thursday April 22nd, 2004 10:07:50 AM
"And where that other ship is going," Trellus adds to Jake's comment. "And what you dudes told them about us."
Trellus taps Jake again with his healing wand [16 hp healed], and then a second time if he needs it. [11 hp healed]. He also hands the fighter two potions of cure light wounds. "For the love of Alemi," he mutters to his friend, "if you're hurt, DRINK them!" Trellus is sure he'll never understand Jake's aversion to magic.
He turns to look sourly at the escaping vessel. "Maybe one of us can kick up a wind?" he asks Sterlin and Gilan hopefully.
Anuk Thursday April 22nd, 2004 7:56:34 PM
Anuk tells Tishe', "Shady, I think a magic missile spell might come in handy. Maybe that spider climb spell, too. Just let me know when you're ready and you can cast them into the stone."
He wanders over to Jake and Trellus interrogating the prisoners. "I suppose we ought to keep an eye on these two tonight. I'll be glad to take a watch."
He looks over the bag and the inert mage, then nods at Twinge. "Hey, Twinge, mind keepin' an eye on our friends here for a while?" he says with a grin. The snake drops from his shoulders and slowly slithers up the mage to rest across hers. "Don't eat 'em unless they start acting up."
Grymash Thursday April 22nd, 2004 8:23:42 PM
Grymash looks out across the horizon. "Hows far is da other boat? Are da pack not catchin' up? Yeah Trellus, wind make boat go faster. Right? Whut else make boat faster? Gry run faster than dis! Do weez got any more sails weez can sling up." Grymash looks at his pole. "Is Gry not sailin' gute enough?"
DM George "Twilight" Thursday April 22nd, 2004 9:25:55 PM
The sun goes down and the other ship disappears in the night. The new Captain softly swears and says, "I was afraid of this. They are running without lights. That is so illegal! They are whitehands for sure."
He will turn and point to the halfling's sack. One of you should question him. Maybe he knows where they are going. The will easily give us the slip tonight."
Gilan Thursday April 22nd, 2004 11:55:39 PM
Gilan glances to Trellus and shakes his head. "I have very few spells left at this point and a wind spell is not one of them." He glances to Anuk and nods at his request to his friend, smiling. With a soft series of buzzes he calls his two friend to his side. "Tiev...Zilia would you two be kind enough to watch over these two for me as well?" With another grin he makes another series of buzzes. "If they try to escape...give them a sting for good measure." Anyone that lives on the Plains knows that a sargrass plains wasp is poisonous.
He pulls out the orb from earlier and slowly turns with it to see if it gives him any indication of the direction of the ship. He is seeing if it is still tuned to someone on the ship or someone on their ship now.
Tishe' Friday April 23rd, 2004 1:14:23 AM
Before going for her nap, Tishe' casts Spider Climb into Anuk's iun stone. Than she notices Twinge and doesn't act with her usual curiosity. Instead, she backs up, putting a protective hand on a satchel on her hip. "How tame is your freind?" she asks. "In natural circumtances, my familiar, Wart, is a delicacy for snakes, and I would hate for anyting to happen."
Knowing Wart won't be eaten anytime soon, Tishe' naps and comes back on deck at dusk. She takes in the twighlight conversation, the non-position of the other boat, and the prisoners still tied up.
She walks over with Trellus and Jake. "In HookCity, we give prisoners to the necromancers to make them talk. They know the worst ways for a body to feel." she cocks her head thoughtfully. "Really, it's easier to ask questions once you're dead than when you're alive. If you want, Trellus, I'll study those spells for tomorrow? It would be quite interesting to see how they effect a halfling..."
She moves back to the tillers to take command of the ship for the Captain.
Trellus Friday April 23rd, 2004 8:44:39 AM
Trellus nods glumly in answer to Gilan. "Me too," he answers.
He gives Grymash a comforting slap on the back, making sure its hard enough that the half-orc will actually feel it. "You're weaving just fine," he says. "They just got a faster boat."
To Anuk -- "Have you got a healing spell in there?" If not, Trellus casts Cure Light Wounds. If yes, Trellus casts Command.
Tishe' is proving quite indecipherable. The cleric has no idea if she's joking or not. "Uh, lets ask him," he says, pointing to the halfling's bag. He walks up next to the sack.
"Well, dude?" Trellus calls to the little thief. "You gonna tell me where that other boat is weaving? Or does the witch ask your corpse?"
He continues on conversationally, "My half orc friend would love to give her yours. You remember him. hairy guy? foaming mouth? totally huge axe? Doesn't like you at all?"
"Hey Gry, come on over and say hi to spearchucker here."
Grymash d20+5=13 Friday April 23rd, 2004 11:59:16 AM "Hey Mac, watch me pole for little bit." A big toothy menacing grin forms across his face when Trellus starts talking to the halfling. Gry removes a whetstone from his side pouch and one of this daggers. As he walks over to Trellus and the halfling he begins to run the stone across the length of his blade. The grating sound of the stone against sharpened metal is obvious to anyone as to what it means.
Grymash walks up close to the bag and speaks low and deep to its contents. "Yous remember Gry. Gry kills ya like promised. But Gargul grants me wish an not take ya yet! Dat mean yous are MINE! Remember Gry sayin' me goin' ta kill ya uh hundred times. Gry only kills ya once so far! Lots more killin's comin' to ya. Me be thinkin' whut ta do next. How 'bout me debone ya first so ya not squirm so much? IF ya not fess up, Gry wills show yous whole new wurlds of PAIN!!" (Take 20 on Intimidation check of 25)
Gry gives Trellus a very wicked grin after he finishes what he says. Gry sniffs to see if he gets any whiffs of sudden urine or bowel movements from the halfling after his little speech. (Spot/Scent check 13)
Anuk Friday April 23rd, 2004 2:07:59 PM
Anuk hands the purple stone to Tishe' when she casts her spell into it. "Thank you," he says when she gives it back. "And don't worry too much about Twinge...I'll keep him on his best behavior." He turns to the viper. "Hear that? Leave her little friend alone. Understand? I'll find you something to eat from the galley." The snake looks briefly at Anuk, then turns his attention back to the mage and the halfling, his tongue flicking in and out.
When Trellus asks about the healing spell, Anuk says, "Ummm...yes. There is a curing spell in there already. How about something else instead?" After Trellus casts his spell, Anuk thanks him then goes to the new Captain. "Anything I can do to help?"
(ooc: the ioun stone now has Pass without Trace, Shield of Faith, Expeditious Retreat, Cure Light Wounds, Spider Climb, and Command.)
Mac 2d8(5+5)+2=12 Friday April 23rd, 2004 5:33:36 PM
Mac drains his CMW potion [HP: 31/48] and sighs as he stows the little empty flask away in his pack.
"We're sailing good Gry, we're just not sailing fast." He looks at the sails. "We aren't going to catch them if we're relying on the same wind they are already catching", he mutters - thinking out aloud. He considers the pole (tiller) in his hand. "Captain? Tishe'? Is there any point in trying to pole this vessel along... like a barge?"
Jake d20+2=20 Friday April 23rd, 2004 7:56:40 PM
(I thought we were already asking the halfling questions?) Jake unties the top of the sack and pulls it down over the halfling's head, allowing him to breathe. But he keeps a good grip and looks ready to, "One bad move and I just toss you, and the bag, into Grymash's dinner bowl. Now, tell us everything, and make it easy on yourself." (Bluff or Intimidate (whichever is appropriate-same bonus for both) 20 on the halfling.)
DM George "Cool hand Luke" d20=20 Friday April 23rd, 2004 11:31:40 PM
The halfling allows his eyes to adjust to the light and then takes a close look on what is going on around him. "Last thing I remember was the collision. I must have bumped my head."
He looks around and sighs, "Well it looks like you have me in a pickle. I am more than willing to do some business with you but you must give me some assurances. My life, belongings and freedom and I will tell you anything you want to know. Otherwise I will keep my lips shut."
The halfling doesn't look very intimidated. He seems like he has been in simular jambs before. Rolled natural 20 to see if he was going to be intimidated.
Gilan Friday April 23rd, 2004 11:36:38 PM
Gilan glances to the halfling and then to Trellus. "If he had anything to do with the fire in town then we would be hard pressed to honor that bargain." He glances back to the halfling and then to the others. He just shrugs his shoulder as he thinks that cutting this one too much slack would be a bad idea.
Flea d20+9=19 d20+23=42 d20-1=13 Saturday April 24th, 2004 10:15:00 AM
Flea pokes through the treasure trying to get a general idea as to it's worth (Appraise=19). When she has satisfied her curiosity, she does a quick inventory of her remaining arrows and checks the condition of her weapons. The gnome finds a spot in the shadows, where she can curl up unseen (Hide=42) and listens as the others question the prisoners. She wonders if the halfling is being truthful (Sense Motive=13) and if the pack should sail the barge back to Rattledam and warn the city.
Trellus Saturday April 24th, 2004 10:41:51 AM
Trellus cocks an eyebrow at the halfling. For a dude barely alive and stuck in a sack, he's awfully waxed.
He gives the thief a good looking over, while he tries to decide what kind of bargaining he can do. There is no way this guy is running around loose with Rattledam's location in his head. 'Course, the beaters got that 'mind wipe' thing or whatever that they pull on dudes leaving town.
"I'll guarantee your life," he replies to the halfling. "We're keeping your stuff." "And your freedom is something you gotta talk to the monks about when we get back."
Tishe' d20+9=29 Saturday April 24th, 2004 4:29:52 PM
Busy with running the ship, Tishe' doesn't pay any further attention to the interrogation. There are enough intimidating people up there already.
"I need two sailors for the poles to spell Grymash and Mac. Anuk, Gilan would you like to volunteer?" The small woman wants to rotate the tillers so no one is too tired.
"Mac, using poles in the 'Grass is like using oars on water. You can move, but is generally faster with the wind. {Sailing Craft check; 29}" But something about Mac's suggestion nags at the back of her mind awhile, and then...
"Mac, regular poles wouldn't work, but what about a tiller made of Druid Wood? Perhaps a large enough piece of Druid Wood lowered toward the Grass at the rear of the GrassSwift would work. The Wood repels the Grass, pushing the rest of the boat forward."
She shakes her head. "It won't do any good tonight anyways. The other barge can make any turn and escape us. The big problem is we have to see it or know where it is going to overtake it."
"We need some answers from the prisoners. If not the halfling, maybe the wizard."
Anuk Sunday April 25th, 2004 9:38:24 PM
"Always happy to help, Tishe'," says Anuk. As soon as Mac or Gry is ready for relief, Anuk takes over at their station.
DM George "wheeling and dealing" Monday April 26th, 2004 7:33:04 PM
The halfling sighs as he listens to the conversations around him. "I do have the information you are looking for. Well at least some of it. I know where they are going and more importantly what they are carrying."
The halfling looks around the group and says, "I am willing to give this information to you for a price. I understand that you want my items, I guess that is fair. To the victor goes the spoils. Here is what I suggest. First you heal me, give me my normal gear back plus some weapons. You provide me with 50 gps and drop me off at some other town. I will leave these parts and never come back. I will keep the secret of Rattledam a secret, though I doubt I could find my way back. I am no navigator. You must make your decision quickly though. My information is time sensitive."
The halfling seems earnest in his requests.
Jake Monday April 26th, 2004 8:27:10 PM
"Hell no! You ain't getting away while knowing the secret of Rattledam. Heck, that's something even I don't know!" With that, Jake grabs the halfling's bag and prepares to tosses it overboard in a fury (unless any one stops him, I assume that's what he'll do, too). Few things ever make Jake this angry, but little lying snots who threaten all his life AND refuse to be anything but jerky treadles get on his nerves. Actulaly, this is really the only thing that's made him angry in a long time...
Gilan Monday April 26th, 2004 10:53:03 PM
Gilan moves forward and grabs Jake by the arm. "This is a two edged sword...we need that information but yet we should not let him go." He looks to Trellus for support not sure how his friend will react. "It may just be worth the risk...especially if what they took is of great import and I believe it is...after all they stole it." He looks to the others for support as well not really liking the turn of evens but their choice is most likely been made for them.
Looking to Trellus he shakes his head again. "We may just have to make a deal with Marteaus for the safety of Rattledam." You can tell that he is not happy about this but they are sworn to protect Rattledam at all costs. "Still you could try the wizardess first...if she also has the information then maybe we could get a better deal." His smile is cruel in many ways but then again...nature is fickle.
TIshe' d20+9=22 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 1:26:25 AM
Tishe' guages the wind and the growing darkness (Craft:Sailing:22) "Aloft! Reef in some sail. Lively, now! I'd not want to strike a shoal in the dark!" She grins and continues in a more normal voice. "Or whatever passes for one in the 'Grass."
The GrassSwift isn't a huge ship, and the plain-faced woman becomes interested again in the prisoners, especially when Jake is ready to throw the halfling overboard.
"No!", "Whew!", "Hmmm..."
"What secret of Rattledam are you so warped up about, Jake? The location? Without good instruments and maps, this fine little thief would never find the town again. I mean, I know about navigation and the stars, and I couldn't find Rattledam even now, but a day's sailing away."
She cocks her head. "I say we should agree with him. We value the information as much as he values his life."
Trellus Tuesday April 27th, 2004 10:52:19 AM
The young cleric moves quickly with Gilan to intercept Jake.
"Jake! NO!" he cries, grabbing the fighter.
Whispering into his friend's ear, he says urgently, "Dude, he survives that fall and we're totally shredded."
Having gotten the halfling back onto his nice little hook, Trellus sighs heavily, and rubs the back of his neck. The treadle is likely correct about not be able to find Rattledam on his own. Probably. What to do? What to do? They have GOT to get to that other ship! He glances at Gilan and Tishe'.
Light
"All right," he says, sighing heavily again. "If what you tell us proves useful, I'll let you go with enough gear to keep your thread whole. But, that ain't happening till after we deal with your friends. And if you give me a load of piggie poop, the deal is cut."
Galafar is gonna be totally warped when he hears about this.
Anuk Tuesday April 27th, 2004 10:53:54 AM
"Aye, aye, cap'n," Anuk says with a wink to Tishe'as the craft sails on.
From his position guiding the ship, Anuk can only hear a little of the questioning, but he can hear enough to know the pack has not yet gotten the information they need.
Calling out he says, "Trellus...maybe we ought to soak the little treadle in water, tie him to a ten-foot rope, and let him dangle off the back of the ship while we sail. See if the grasses and the bugs open his mouth a little."
Flea d20+8=21 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 4:53:58 PM
The rogue listens to the debates with the halfling. Sensing that the leaders of her pack have matters well in hand, the rogue returns to the pile of treasure confiscated from their attackers. After poking around, again using her dagger, Flea finds what she has been looking for. After a covert glance to ensure that she isn't being watched, the rogue picks up the ring confiscated off the mage. She will try to read any words that are inscribed on the ring, before slipping it on her right index finger. (Decipher Script=21)
Grymash d20+7=23 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 5:40:29 PM
Grymash cant believe what he's hearing. "Yous all gonna trust da little treadle. Halflin' says nothin' but lies. Gargul spares him for Gry. Da halfin' belongs ta ME! An ME says weez got female magik flinger, she wills talk. Me say I cuts out his tongue! Halfin' lyin' voice curses Gry ears!"
Grymash draws his dagger in close to the halflings face. "Any last words, Piggie?"
(Intimidate 23)
Gilan Tuesday April 27th, 2004 7:16:03 PM
Gilan takes a turn to spare whichever of the two big guys needs a break. He listens to Gry as he goes into a slight rage at the idea of hearing the halfling out. He shakes his head and then decides that Trellus will handle it better.
He walks over to see Flea during his own break and see if she has tried to check out any of the loot. "Flea...you try to see if any of this stuff has writing on it that maybe useful?" He is not sure if she will have any luck and he knows that they cannot get any of it identified right away. He absently wonders if they should try some of it the hard way again.
DM George "Brave little halfling" d20+11=25 intimidate check Tuesday April 27th, 2004 8:16:47 PM
The halfling looks at Jake and then at Grymash. He sighs again and then looks to the more reasonable of the Bloodpack Trellus. "Can you please keep your tame ape under control? Just because I shot him a couple times is no reason for him to act this way. By the gods, he struck me down with a huge axe, the big bully.
I can tell you where the destination of the ship is but not exactly where it is going. I can't give you that information for the same reason, I can find Rattledam again. I am not a navigator. All the grass looks the same to me.
Even more importantly, I can tell you the cargo of the ship."
He looks around at his hostile audience and seems to deflate a little. "I am a mercanary. I do what I am paid to do and honor my contracts. I was paid to help spy on Rattledam. I did that. I will follow the mercanary code and keep your trust...if you free me and let me on my way. I really just want to go home."
Flea Tuesday April 27th, 2004 9:02:47 PM
Totally distracted by the loot, Flea doesn't pay any attention to the halfling and his predicament. She gives a little jump, when Gilan surprises her, and at first puts her right hand behind her back. When Gilan makes his enquiry, she sheepishly holds out her hand with the captured ring on her index finger. "Nothin's happened yet, but it is pretty," she volunteers. Then, turning to the often serious druid she asks, "didn't you find some of that special wood that seems so valuable in Rattledam?"
The gnome looks into the sky to see what she can see. Maybe some stars or the coming dawn? She yawns, covering her mouth with the back of her hand. Addressing Gilan, she says, "have a look at this stuff and see if there is anything that might be useful to you. I'm going to catch a few winks."
Flea will check in with Tishe', pointing to a nest of coiled rope, "I'll be catching a few winks over there. Wake me at dawn, and I'll climb the mast again to see what I can see."
With that, Flea curls up amongst the ropes, her head resting on her pack, and her new Cloak of Comfort over her like a blanket.
Trellus d8+5=8 d8+5=10 Tuesday April 27th, 2004 9:36:38 PM
The young blond headed man grabs Gry's arm, and tries to steer him out of earshot of the halfling "Gry," he hisses quietly, urgently. "Please, just...just...light, I don't know what to do." The last phrase is barely audible, mostly to himself really.
Trellus stands there for several minutes, holding Gry's arm and staring out at the Grass. If that halfling knows, and the mage doesn't, they have to deal. "When it gets dark, we're gonna lose that ship," he says aloud.
Turning to his friend, he looks up at the big half orc. By Domi, sometimes he'd love to be as blindly sure of things as Grymash always is. "Please, Gry. Let me weave this. Please."
Trellus returns to the halfling. "You'll stay alive longer if you don't call people names," he growls. The cleric turns and casts CURE LIGHT WOUNDS on the magic user (8hp healed). If that doesn't do it, he casts another (10 hp healed).
"Where is that other ship going, who is on it, and what do they know about Rattledam?" he demands when she wakes up.
Grymash Wednesday April 28th, 2004 12:43:23 AM
Grymash glares at Trellus in frustration when he pulls him aside. As Trellus explains to him the situation he stabs his dagger back into his scabbard and crosses his arms. Grymash listens to every word, as much as he can. He's on his last nerve. Grymash considers what he says as his eyes stray outward into the darkness. As Gry calms down, he wipes his mouth with the back of his hand. He turns back to Trellus and whispers, "Ok then, talk wit da treadle. But Gry swear if he be lyin', me hangin' his head on uh pole! Anyways, whut is uh APE!!??"
Tishe' Wednesday April 28th, 2004 12:59:12 AM
The plain-faced woman smiles in response to Anuk's teasing, and acknowledges Flea's bedtime with a wave and a nod. "As Thermo rises in the east, I'll wake you from your dreams."
Tishe' doesn't know about the halfling, but SHE'S certainly frightened of Grymash right now! Keeping an eye on the ship, she edges around the big barbarian, eyeing him as if he was a dangerous stranger, and speaks to Trellus.
"Trellus, the halfling said he was a mercenary." she speaks quickly and softly. "Protection squads are a valued profession in HookCity, and he could have been picked up nearly anywhere."
Jake Wednesday April 28th, 2004 1:44:21 AM
Jake mutters to himself, a bit from the others, "a halflin' mercenary? What ah brightassed liar that little sprout is..." He resolves that, even if Trellus makes a deal and agrees to let the halfling go, the little jerk will vanish, having been kicked off the boat. With a bit of water splashed on him. It's not that I like killing people, Jake thinks to himself, it's just this guy has no moral compunction whatsoever about ruining the lives of all of Rattledam, for money!
Anuk d20=6 Wednesday April 28th, 2004 10:17:55 AM
Anuk continues at his post. Light's getting low, he thinks. Hope we can figure out soon where to steer this thing.
He knows Trellus and the others will be able to get the information eventually. He just hopes it will be in time. "Buncha sunbaked cowards on that ship, leavin' the mercenaries behind to do their fighting for 'em," he says quietly, looking to the lowering sun on the horizon.
If the mage is roused by Trellus, Twinge begins slowly circling around her neck and shoulders, occasionally baring his fangs and hissing as he passes her face. His bravado, however, is more entertaining than frightening to those looking on. (intimidate 6)
DM George "Awakenings" Wednesday April 28th, 2004 8:52:07 PM
Trellus casts his cure on the magicuser and she comes awake with a start. Her intelligent eyes dart around as she gathers in her situation.
"Where is the Captain?" she murmurs to herself. She seems to hear Trellus's questions but is still to disconcerted to answer them yet.
The halfling pipes up. "I would be careful. Trina has a temper and when she finds out you killed the Captain, she might lose it."
Trina's head snaps in the halfling's direction at the speech and her eyes narrow. Hate, anger and despair struggle for dominance in her eyes.
She thens seems to get control of herself and asks, "Excuse me but did you say something?" She directs her question to Trellus.
Flea doesn't notice anything special happen when she puts on the ring but it seems to shrink down to fit her finger very nicely.
Gilan Wednesday April 28th, 2004 10:08:50 PM
Gilan lounges around as they go about getting answers to questions. He cannot help but wonder just what the cargo had been. He glances to the mage as she comes to life and he smiles, his eyes sparkling. "Remember to watch her closely...she is a mage." He looks to Gry and motions him to take a spot by the mage. "Gry...you can take her head if she even tries a spell." He hopes that that will keep Gry occupied for awhile and happy. He knows it will make him happier that is for sure.
He noses through the treasure as he keeps one eye on the proceedings. He looks for anything of interest in it, especially stuff that has a forest or nature feel to it.
[Cannot remember what all was in the treasure pile anyways.]
Trellus Wednesday April 28th, 2004 10:11:10 PM And so you just happen to blurt out that very fact as soon as she wakes up, Trellus silently finishes for the halfling. How stupid do you think I am?
The cleric gazes impassively at the magic user all the while. He glances to her hands, making sure they're tied securely. This one is the dangerous one.
"I said," he responds levelly, "Who's on that other ship, where are they going, and what do they know about Rattledam?"
"Jake, can you take spearchucker to the other end of the ship?"
Flea Wednesday April 28th, 2004 11:08:45 PM Flea dreams about the large golden door in the tunnels beneath Rattledam. As she stands in front of the door she nervously twists the ring on her finger...
Grymash d20+7=22 Thursday April 29th, 2004 1:11:45 AM
Grymash decides to take a quick look at the newly acquired magical items.
(Here is a list of all the magic items that I could find from previous posts.
Grymash picks up the dagger. The battle axe looks interesting. Of course, all axes are interesting. The shield is ok. Gry sniffs the bloody chainmail. Not interested. Gry is repulsed by the halfling's items. The little ones stench is all over them.
Gry takes the dagger and the axe and sits down in front of the female mage. His shadow engulfs her. He doesnt take his eyes off her for the first couple of moments. Grymash takes her dagger and draws the blade from its scabbard and gives it a quick glance. The setting sun behind Grymash blinds the mage of the half-orcs facade. All she can see is his darkened silhouette the slightest red glow from his eyes as they adjust to the dying of the light. He carefully takes the dagger by its blade and starts to scrape the grime from underneath his overgrown fingernails. A tooth-filled grin forms across his face. Grymash then inquires, "Yous wasnt uh man at one time, weres ya? Gry mean, yous were birthed uh female, right?!" (Intimidate 22)
Jake Thursday April 29th, 2004 2:42:37 AM
Jake grabs the sack's drawstring (the halfling's still up to the neck in it) and tightens it, so that hte halfling is once more pinned up to his neck. Then he grabs the bag and totes it along towards the other end of the ship. He doesn't act out any vendetta by smacking the halfling along the way, instead just doing what he was asked quietly.
"Ya know...working for the raiders, that's pretty blasted sun-baked of ya," he says casually as they arrive at the other end. "Ah know you 'mercenary' types only carry about money, but these guys are devoted to the death and suffering of everybody. Dont'cha have any bitta decency in ya?"
Tishe' d20+9=26 Thursday April 29th, 2004 3:36:46 AM
Takes out her star wheel and concerns herself with the sailing of the GrassSwift (Craft:Sailing:26)
Anuk Thursday April 29th, 2004 3:05:30 PM
Anuk continues along at his post, following any orders from Tishe' and growing more and more anxious at the thought of the raider ship escaping.
DM George "Where did he go George...Where did he go? Thursday April 29th, 2004 7:57:57 PM
The group looks around and notices that Sterlin and his spider friend aren't on the boat. If fact they are heading back to Rattledam on the captured prize. OOC Kevin needed to go on a leave of absense for a while.
DM George d20+7=17 d20+13=27 Thursday April 29th, 2004 10:18:50 PM
Trina tries to back away from Grymash as much as she can. "Why do you want to know...your not going to rape me are you!?" She looks frantically around and sees Trishe. "Help Help.." she screams. "He is going to rape me! Please don't let him touch me. Help"
The halfling shakes his head as he is carried away. "Humans...when the chips are down, they come apart." He then addresses himself to Jake. "Well the baron's tell a different story about Rattledam and its inhabitants. The monks are really mages who use their mighty arts to enslave the population. They can erase all your memories of family and friends and make you work day and night for no wages and little food. They hoard all the water to themselves and won't share it with their neighbors. They promote the special grasses and try to mutate it for strange uses. They dominate and control the druid wood so only they can sail on the grassses. You call me evil. Ha... you are in league with them. Yes I am a mercanary and except gold but my heart is just."
Flea is standing in front of the door when suddenly it opens and in front of her is a kindly looking old man in clerical garb. He smiles at her and says, "Soon little one...yes soon we will met. I think you and your friends might be the ones I have been searching for. I will summon you soon for an important task. Now go back to your friends, they need your wisdom."
Flea jerks away startled at the realism of the dream.
The gloom gets deeper and you lose sight of the other boat as it pulls further away.
Flea Thursday April 29th, 2004 10:52:46 PM Flea jerks awake
Startled at the realism of her dream, she rubs her eyes and looks about. The rogue then yawns and stretches, scratching her belly.
She puffs out her chest a little, he said the pack needs my wisdom! she thinks, remembering the chiding of her mentor, who used to shake his head and lament at her apparant lack of that very ability.
Jumping to her feet, she straightens her leathers, then goes to find Tishe' and tell her about the dream she had. If Tishe' will listen to her, the gnome will also show her the ring, and ask the curly-haired woman if she ever saw anything like it before, or can tell what it might do.
Gilan Friday April 30th, 2004 12:57:43 AM
Gilan thumbs through the stuff and then looks at the cloak a little closer. He does not try it on or anything but it does appear to be of good make. Laying the cloak back down he picks up the boots and turns them over and over. "Kind of small...but if magical they would size to fit." He ponders that awhile as he waits to see what the rest are going to do.
Glancing to Trellus he sighs and then shakes his head. "Just give the little blighter what he wants...that way we can be on our way and stop them." He is getting a little impatient with all the slowness of this. "Remember Rattledam and our obligation...it far outweighs our current concerns with the thief." You can tell that he is getting anxious and they are wasting time in foolery.
Tishe' d20+9=13 Friday April 30th, 2004 2:35:29 AM
Sailing a boat this size takes a lot of concentration (Craft:Sail:13), but Tishe's mind tends to wander.
She is so amazed at this Trina's outburst, she can't suppress a laugh. "Though Grymash may be fierce and can't control his temper, I assure you, he is a perfect gentlemen in matters of a lady." Her eyes grow thoughtful, "Just be sure you act like a lady", she suggests.
"The halfling's words are perilously close to what I've observed", mutters Tishe' to herself. "Could it be that he is weaving right?"
She shakes her head, chiding herself. "If he were, the Barons wouldn't kill and enslave and use fear and evil gnolls for thier purposes. No, that is only enough truth to make it convincing." She turns aside to Anuk. "If that is what the Barons are saying, there is little wonder they have a large following."
And she sees Flea arrive. The dream she says she's had is very interesting. "And you've dreamed this shady man more than once? I don't weave the meaning of dreams, but I think it is no less true for all that. Let's take Trellus and Gilan off to the side after they are done with the prisoners."
"Gilan!" she calls, "when you are done, can you take over Mac's steering pole? He could use a break." She looks fondly at the huge man, seeing he could steer for a couple of days if needed.
Trellus Friday April 30th, 2004 11:41:17 AM
Trellus rolls his eyes as the girl goes into hysterics. Oh, for the love of Domi, he thinks impatiently.
The growing gloom and Gilan's comment decide it for him. With a quick "keep an eye on her" to Grymash, the young man purposely moves to the bagged thief.
"Deal," he states curtly. "You tell me what you know, I let you go with enough gear to keep yourself intact. So spit it."
Mac (HP:31/48) Friday April 30th, 2004 5:11:27 PM
The taur's eyes focus back in on the here and now after having been hundreds of miles away.
"I'd be happier if someone'd take the other tiller - two's a bit o' a stretch."
Grymash Friday April 30th, 2004 8:59:15 PM
Grymash looks back and Tishe' with a perplexed expression. "Gentleman?! When have Gry ever be gentle?" Gry chuckles a little and returns back to his intimidating gaze focused on the female prisoner.
"Rape! Yous think yous be a gute mate for Gry? Dont fladder youself! What Gry do want from yous is dis. See dis dagger," Gry shows her the magic dagger, "Gry want yous ta tell me whut its magik do. Da ring too. An da sword, cloak, da potion ... ALL DA STUFF! Weez no have da time to be figurin' it out. An yous will have even less time if yous not say, Piggie!"
Gilan Friday April 30th, 2004 9:50:18 PM
Gilan moves and takes over the steering for Mac, seeing as how he needs some rest. He nods to Tishe' and then looks to Flea as she talks some more to Tishe'.
Finally hearing Trellus's words he shakes his head. "At last some results." He seems happier now that they may get some straight answers. He pulls Tishe' to the side, if he can get her attention.
Glancing to make sure that he cannot be overheard that easily he kneels to be more on her level. "Do you think you could fake a truth spell for us. We can take the wizardess out of the picture to help make it more real and she cannot say anything. Maybe the thief will be more inclined to tell us whole truths." Once Trellus comes over as he most likely will as Tishe' said her and Flea needed to talk to them he will give his idea to Trellus.
DM George d20+7=27 Friday April 30th, 2004 10:46:21 PM
The halfling's face lights up into a huge smile when he hears Trellus give his word. "You are truly an honorable man and I will tell you all I know."
The halfling seems to relax and starts his story. "My name is Driblin the Swift. We were hired by the baron's with several missions in mind. First we were to determine the exact location of Rattledam and put it on a map and bring it back to them. We were successful in that mission as you know.
We then were to interrupt the shipping of the traders trying to capture as many ships as possible. They were harvesting the magic wood to make their own navy. Our ship is an example of the navy they are assembling to come against Rattledam.
The Baron's have burned down the grasses and built a small camp close to the Cyrstal Mountains and are building a staging area there. They have a small ship yard there. I wish I could give you more complete directions but it is more to the west than we have been travelling. I expect the other ship to turn that way when the sun sets and you can't see them. It is a couple of days sailing at least from Rattledam.
The biggest news is on that ship they have captured a young druid. She was carrying a special nut that she planned on planting somewhere. I know the Captain was very excited about it. Something about having their own source of magic wood.
If you can catch up with the ship, you shouldn't have to much trouble with it. Most of the heavy weights were on this ship. They are mainly normal people on that ship but all experience sailors.
There that is all I know. Now please untie me and return my belongings. I won't cause you any trouble. I just want to get back to where you don't have to eat slugs all the time."
The female mage seems to get control of herself when the others reassure her that she won't be raped by the ugly 1/2 orc. "Why should I help you. Your all barbarians. I have heard stories on how you enslave the plains people. How you drive them out of their homes. How you hunt them. I will not tell you anything."
She looks at the pile of loot and smiles, "You lost the best thing anyway. I don't see my wand there. One of you steal it from the others maybe?"
Grymash Saturday May 1st, 2004 2:18:58 AM
Her sudden injection of bravery surprises Grymash. It must be an act. She was crying like a slobbering pup just moments before. His eyes turned wide and feral. Any civility left just melted away from his expression. His huge left hand quickly shoots forward and grabs her by the neck and lower jaw. He forcefully presses her head back against the mast of the boat. His grip is like a vice but not too much to restrict her air flow completely. Grymash leans in very close. So close that Trena can feel his hot breath against her cheek.
"No ones here is uh barbarian ... excepts MEEEE!! ARES YOUS STUPID, GIRRL?! Yous have no idea ta who yous talk to. Weez da BLOODPACK ... yous know whut dat mean?" Grymash slowly brings the magical dagger up to her face and lets the cool flat-side of the blade glide across her cheek. The cold sickening tingle of black death engulfs the two (channeling negative energy). "Ohhh yesss, yous feel dat? Ohhh so close ... so close!" A very different and heavy voice takes the place of Grymash's as he breathlessly whispers in her ear. As he talks his armor morphs and twists into something black and wicked.
"Do not play games with me, girl. I am the wrath of a god, an angel of death. I am a servant of the high lord Gargulll. Even now he speaks to me. Do you not hear him too? He has many voices. Mine is one of them. The barbarian before you is my loyal servant. It isnt wise to oppose him. His soul has dark passions that go far beyond rape, you stupid stupid short-sighted little girl. He comes from a long bloodline of savagery. His soul is ancient, and with it comes the combined essence of all those who have fallen to him since the first. Dont allow yourself to join us, child. Your ultimate fate will be determined by your next words. Choose them wisely."
With that being said, the heavy breathing stops and the voice of Grymash returns. "Tell Gry NOW whut dis magik stuff do!!" Grymash shakes violently. Any gentleness he once possessed is gone. He begins to yell into ear. "TELL GRY NOW, YOUS MITZ BOTSCEECH!! KLUE MA TA-MUTOOK JOT HEBOCTU!" In his anger Grymash unknowingly reverts to his orcish tongue.
(Take 20 on Intimidate. DC is 27)
Mac (HP:31/48) Sunday May 2nd, 2004 8:04:54 AM
"Thank ye Gilan!", says Mac with a grin ashe hands over Gry's tiller and continues to man his own.
He responds to Trina's comments about the wand with, "Your wand probably fell o'erboard when you fell over geting from one ship to another. Frankly, I couldnae care less if it was never foond. An' I think ye don't knoo much 'bout ye new friend's allegiances and temper if ye think he would be distracted by sucha pathetic attempt." He doesn't expect to be heard over Gry's 'up close and personal' conversation with her, but he felt better having said it.
Tishe' d20+9=19 Sunday May 2nd, 2004 1:41:17 PM
Sailing in the dark is hard work, thinks Tishe'. "Weaving spells is a whole lot simpler."
She looks at Flea's ring closely. "The best I can tell, because it fits your finger as well as that mage's finger, it's magical."
"In fact, since they were using them, I think they should all be shady."
Flea Sunday May 2nd, 2004 5:10:01 PM
The gnome stands beside Tishe'. She's not comfortable with the tenor of Gry's interogation, but then, due to her small size, the rogue has usually employed other methods to get unwilling subjects to talk. A good bottle of wine, or a few Flaming Gnomishes make a good lubricant for the tongue.
Flea frowns and ponders the accusations flung out by the halfling and the mage. There is some truth to what they say, although coming from their enemies, it seems a distortion of what Flea holds to be true. If she can remember, she will talk of her concerns with Trellus, and maybe, when they are back in the city, to their mentor.
Flea looks around for Anuk, or anyone else who might be able to tell what time it is, and how long before the sun will rise. "We need to decide on a plan, so we can get going as soon as it is light! For Rattledam or after that ship, and the Crystal Mountains?", she asks to those within hearing range.
Trellus Monday May 3rd, 2004 10:42:30 AM
The cleric nods as Driblin speaks. He turns to the Captain.
"They're gonna turn westward any minute," he says. "Can we turn now to cut them off? And no lights. We don't want them seeing us."
In answer to Flea, the young man responds, "We catch that ship. They can't get to the Baron's camp with the location of Rattledam."
DM George 'whimpers" Monday May 3rd, 2004 5:07:24 PM
The Captain starts the ship on an intercept course and orders more sail up. You seem to speed up a little but it is tough to say.
He will ask, "Is it possible for any of you to travel ahead and slow that ship down a little?"
The remaining crew is starting to move in wide circles around Grymash and the mage. She breaks into tears again and slumps down. "Dagger has enchantments to make it sharper and penetrates armor more easily. My ring also can deflect blows." She is wheezing and crying looking totally pathetic as she continues.
"The Captain's sword was like my dagger. It could cut deeper and more easily. His armor was magically enchanted to turn blows more effectively. His cloak gave him a resistance to spells, poisons and the like. I don't know what the potion did."
When she sees Grymash's face darken, she quickly continues. "The halfling's boots made him move much more quickly than normal. His bracers acted like armor. His bow was enchanted to hit better as were the arrows.
I don't know what the gnolls items did. I don't socialize with monsters." She then looks up at the 1/2 orc Grymash and her eyes bug. "I mean... I mean...Oh nooooo..." She bursts into tears and whimpers, "I am sorry. Didn't mean it. Please don't hurt me."
Jake Monday May 3rd, 2004 6:20:58 PM
Jake pulls the halfling along to the edge of the ship. "We'll let you go when we're danged clear of this current mess. Look, ah grew up in Rattledam mah entire life, and ah know the people. And that's what tha Barons want to destroy." He sighs, scratching his jaw. He's not good at giving arguments, he realizes, and so the half-elf just sits and tightens the string sot hat the halfling can't escape.
Anuk Monday May 3rd, 2004 6:44:55 PM
Anuk keeps to his post on the tiller, talking with Tishe' and discussing the new information as it comes from the prisoners.
"I was a stranger to Rattledam once as well. Things may seem strange at first, but it is a good place. The halfling may believe what he has said, but he is wrong. The monks of Rattledam may be beaters -- especially Galafar -- but they are not evil. They only want to live in peace. They may distrust the outside world, but only because they wish to protect their home."
As darkness envelops the ship, Anuk tries to think of some way to catch the other ship, but can think of nothing. At least the news that resistance will be light is a welcome relief.
Flea Monday May 3rd, 2004 10:56:53 PM
When the mage mentions the power of the ring, Flea whistles a long low whistle and twists the shiny circlet about her finger. All the stuff sounds interesting, but the rogue's slightly pointed ears perk up when the halfling's boots are mentioned.
The gnome will sidle up to Trellus, and volunteer, "if you think the captain's idea has merit, I'll volunteer to go 'cross country and try to board the enemy vessel." With a hopeful smile, Flea adds, "the halfling's boots look like they would be a perfect fit, and I'll gladly toss the ring back into the pile, in exchange."
The rogue shakes her head at the spectacle of the whimpering mage. "Maybe we should all head out over the plains and just send the merchant ship and the prisoners back? Parcel up the halfling in a mail sack and send him to the north country? The monks can deal with the woman."
Flea looks around to see how her idea is recieved.
(OOC: I have no idea if the party would make better time on foot, then on the trading ship.)
Tishe' Tuesday May 4th, 2004 12:40:24 AM
Like mercury, the small woman's mind races from idea to idea, and her mouth isn't far behind.
"The ship and the base at the Crystal Mountains is the place to go." Tishe' confirms as Trellus and the Captain move to action.
"I already have bracers that magically act like armor, so if any have objection, I'd like the cloak. I'm sure the dagger may also proove useful if someone else wants the cloak."
"Isn't cross-country dangerous? Not only the animals of the Plains, but with the Sargrass so high, we'd have no idea where we're going. Sending someone ahead to slow them down is great if we'd be sure of finding them."
"And in any case, I'm pretty much useless until I rest and study some spells. Since the Captain is up, I'm off to sleep."
She picks up the cloak to wrap herself in, and heads to belowdecks.
Gilan Tuesday May 4th, 2004 12:51:43 AM
Gilan glances to the halfling and shakes his head. So they are headed to the mountains. Then he hears the words young druid and special nut. That makes his eyes narrow to mere slits and he literally hisses through his teeth.
His eyes go distant as he looks in the direction that the ship had been last traveling. "Traveling at night would not be wise...few of us can see in the dark and water is more of a danger at night." He knows that water bulges are easier to see in the day not at night and to step in one will spell much disaster. "In the morning I can take the form of a wasp again and make my way to spy on the ship...I have five hours so I hope that they are not too far ahead of us...I would like to make it back to the ship." You get the feeling as he turns back around that a great misdeed has been done.
Mac (HP:31/48) Tuesday May 4th, 2004 12:46:47 PM
"If there is the magic and the will, I'd be game t' chase after them. I could slow them down. I could get a light on deck so ye can see us. The mornin' is too long a wait." He pauses for a moment in contemplation. "The dark doesnae bother me. Oh, an' can I further prevail 'pon some healin'?"
Grymash d8+1=6 d8+1=4 d8+1=9 Tuesday May 4th, 2004 3:58:00 PM
Satisfied with her answers, Grymash backs away from the whimpering female and snaps the magic dagger back into its scabbard. "Finally, look how excited Gry haveta gets to gets uh straight answer! Gry not understand why da question soo hard ta answer!" Grymash quickly turns around and hands the dagger to Tishe'. "Here, figures out who needs stuff most. Gry thinks Mac need da magik chainmail da most. Jake, take uh look at da shield, any ideas!"
Before Grymash goes back to the tiller, he looks at the whimpering female and says, "Yeah!! Yous beez smart not ta socialize wit da likes of mee!!!" Grymash then takes out his Feel Good stick and zapps Mac three times. (19 points of healing)
Trellus d20+7=23 2d8(2+5)+3=10 2d8(7+8)+3=18 Tuesday May 4th, 2004 4:09:20 PM
The young man looks sourly at the horizon as the Captain asks his question. "I can't do anything till morning," he replies.
He looks over at the Grass below, trying to get a sense if the Bloodpack (especially Flea) could actually outpace this vessel over the long term. [Knowledge - Sargass Plains check 23]
The cleric taps Mac a couple times with his healing wand. [Total 28 hp healed]
"Running around the Grass in the dark is kinda bright, dude." He responds to Mac "You're likely to run into all kinds of totally baked critters."
"And unless those boots keep you fast all the time, we got nothing to warp up and get that boat until the sun comes up."
Trellus looks impatiently at the horizon again. "I'm with Gilan. We hope we can stay close, and come morning we find 'em, and we stop em. Let's set up shifts to watch the prisoners and help sail this boat, and everyone else get to sleep."
DM George "ZZZZZZZ" Tuesday May 4th, 2004 4:16:50 PM
The Grass Swift sails on during the night. Trellus rightfully figures that the ship is moving faster than the group could move on foot. They might be able to outpace the ship for a while but thick grasses, nasty creatures, insects and battle exhaustion would slow them quickly.
The group sleeps and some are awakened for sailing duty. Dawn arrives and the other ship isn't in sight.
Flea d20+11=27 d20+7=25 Tuesday May 4th, 2004 9:33:01 PM
Upon rising, Flea will scramble up the rigging to the main top gallant where she will assume her post atop the mast. As Flea scans the horizon, tears run down her cheeks from the effort of keeping her eyes open in the brightness of the sun. (Search=27) She will search particularly for any sign of the enemy ship. (Spot=25)
Tiev and Zilia Tuesday May 4th, 2004 9:36:09 PM
Two silvery insects will hover lazily on the early morning updrafts, enjoying an early morning on the Sargrass Plains.
Gilan Tuesday May 4th, 2004 11:45:02 PM
Gilan wakes early in the morning to spend his normal time in repose with nature. He puts himself off to the side and out of theway as he faces the rising sun. A smile touches his face as he opens his eyes to the marvels before him. "Thanks you Wold Mother for this." He spreads his hands to encompass the whole Plains. He warmly greets his two little friends and makes sure they get alittle bit of food this morning, though they have most likely already scavenged for themselves. With a little sad sigh he stands and moves away to the front of the ship.
He reaches into one of his pouches and pulls out the orb to check what direction it would suggest they go. He feels it would be wise if he found out if they could still track their prey with this item.
He will go to Trellus as soon as the man wakes and has done his own morning rituals. Munching on one of the few biscuits that he has he waits patiently for the priest to finish. "With a nights rest I have the powers of nature back at my disposal...I could scout ahead and see if I could find the boat we seek?" He looks to the others and wonders how much ground they have lost on the other ship. "I could also send out a scout if you would prefer?"
[spell list to come] [the cloak would be one thing that would help out Gilan, but it might help out someone else more. not sure if anything else would be of use.]
Tishe' Wednesday May 5th, 2004 2:01:51 AM
Thanks Grymash for the dagger before turning in for the night.
Dawning bright and cheery, the plain-faced woman stretches on deck after contemplating her spells. Since no one else has mentioned them, she is wearing the cloak and the dagger this morning.
She then consults with the Captain on the sailing of the GrassSwift and closest course to the Crystal Mountains. "I think if we can't find the other boat, the best bet would be to sail directly to the mountains then head west until we find the camp. That way, we couldn't miss it."
Tishe' pulls her wavy brown hair into a pony tail and walks over to Trellus as he ends his meditations. "I've got several spells, but none to help us now. I've got...
Four White spells: Detect Magic, Mage Hand, Message, and Read Magic Five Red Spells: Comprehend Language, Shield, Spider Climb, Summon I, and Magic Missle Four Orange Spells: Glitterdust, Web twice, and Knock"
Trellus (Zone of Truth) Wednesday May 5th, 2004 10:48:49 AM
Trellus rises early, and scans the horizon with the coming dawn. Nothing. Heaving a sigh, he finds a quiet place to commune with Domi.
When the young man finishes, he rises to be greeted by Gilan. "Send a scout right now," he answers. "We might need you later." He looks up at the sails. "Any way you can make us go faster?"
He nods in acknowledgement of Tishe', but doesn't answer. The cleric has something on his mind. He strides over to the halfling, and wakes him up. "Good morning, Driblin," he says, and casts a spell centered on the pole the rogue is hanging from.
"I've just cast a spell to make sure the news you gave me yesterday is shady. I need a yes or no, or I'll think your lying. 1) Do you know how to get to Rattledam? 2) Is there a young druid prisoner on the other ship? 3) Do you know the location of the Baron's base by the Crystal Mountains?"
"Anybody else?" he asks his packmates.
Zone of Truth - Will Save DC 16, or unable to tell delibrate or intentional lie. 20' radius from the pole. Affected creatures are aware of the enchantment.
Spell List -- 0 -- Create Water, Detect Magic, Detect Poison, Guidance, Read Magic 1- Command, Bless, Remove Fear, Shield of Faith 2- Hold Person, Spiritual Weapon, Zone of Truth 3- Shatter, Wind Wall
3rd Level: Protection -- Protection from Energy (Fire)*
Grymash d20+7=17 d20+4=18 Wednesday May 5th, 2004 12:59:16 PM
Grymash gets up in the morning and he does his normal thing. He's bewildered how the other ship isnt in sight.
"Wheres are thay? Gry no see them." He scans the horizon (Spot 18, Survival 18). "There be no place ta hide, weez out in wide open!" Grymash thinks for a second. "Except da grass. Da only place ta hide is down in da grass!"
Mac Wednesday May 5th, 2004 4:43:54 PM
"Thank ye Grymash." Mac considers the chainmail, and slowly shakes his head. "It'd make me slow, less agile, poor jumping an' I'd swim like a big rock. I woold like to leave that for someone else. Maybe something less... bulky?" It's clear he has no wish to argue over what spoils he gets, but he does give reasons for not taking stuff he doesn't want.
The dawn makes for a wonderous sight and Mac is staring out, deep in thought as the ship begins to get busy again.
Anuk Wednesday May 5th, 2004 5:32:21 PM
When morning arrives, Anuk finds a quiet corner and spends some time in contemplation (prepares Endure Elements). Then he joins the sailors on deck, lending help wherever it's needed.
Twinge, meanwhile, suns lazily atop some old crates.
DM George d20+3=19 d20+3=16 d20+3=5 d20+3=21 d20+3=6 Wednesday May 5th, 2004 11:17:19 PM
The halfing looks at Trellus straight in the eye and says "No...Yes....No. Any other questions?"
The day dawns and it looks to be a hot one. Many of the bloodpack are starting to get the hang of sailing the ship and things look to be going more smoothly, but you are still far from professional sailors.
The group discusses the various magic items and starts claiming them for themselves. (Please make the decisions soon and update character sheets. I will be handing out hero points for the last combat on Friday. Feel free to give an opinion.)
OOC Just to be a pain, had the halfling make 5 saves and then had a friend pick a number 1-5. Have to keep things interesting now don't I?
Gilan Thursday May 6th, 2004 12:16:44 AM
Gilan nods at Trellus's comment and then turns to summon his two wasps over to him, with a series of quick buzzes.
Moving off to the side so that Trellus can deal with the halfling he casts a spell that he likes very well. The next few minutes are spent in communication with his two wasps, asking them to do him a little favor.
He sends them out to scout for the ship and then report back as soon as they can but not to push themselves too hard. He watches them go with a pit of worry in his stomache. He often wonders if this will be the last time he sees them.
[cast speak with animals]
SPELLS
0th: create water(2), detect magic, read magic, light 1st: endure elements, faerie fire, speak with animals(2#) 2nd: barkskin(2), spider climb 3rd: cure moderate wounds, meld with stone
Tishe' d20+9=20 Thursday May 6th, 2004 12:46:49 AM
Continues to direct the sailing (Craft:20) allowing the Captain to get a couple hours rest. Continuing to sail South towards the Crystal Mountains.
Jake Thursday May 6th, 2004 2:28:01 AM
At first reluctant to do anything resembling work, Jake soon finds himself helping out here and there, tying knots, fixing up boards that were damaged, and other menial jobs. "I'd say we'd head ahead to get to the ship, but there's no way to travel this fast over theg rass other than by ship, is there? Unless we could fly.." He imagines one of those sargrass moths and pictures flying it in his imagination...
Trellus d20=19 Thursday May 6th, 2004 9:49:58 AM
Trellus looks at the halfling for a long minute. "Nope," he finally replies. "I'm done. We'll let you go as soon as we get near someplace civilized."
The cleric watches the wasps take off. "Good luck, little dudes," he whispers.
With a smile at Gry, he tries to help. The ship is too far away, Gry. You know how something looks smaller when it gets farther away from you? Well, the other ship is so far, its gotten small enough to hide behind the tiniest hill." This should be interesting, he thinks to himself as he watches the half-orc process that.
"So who wants this stuff? Jake? Shield? Sword? C'mon dude, take something. Anuk, how 'bout those arrows?" Trellus mentally tallies what is available and what's been claimed:
The cleric will taste the potion in an effort to figure out what it is. He's sort of interested in the chainmail, but won't switch armor until he's sure what it is.
[Rolled a 19 to id the potion. Not sure what kind of check to apply. It comes out to: Appraise 21 Knowledge(Religion) 26 Spellcraft 25]
Anuk d20+1=2 Thursday May 6th, 2004 4:55:31 PM
Anuk takes a break from helping with the ship and checks through the new items in the pack's possesion. "I think I will have a look at those arrows, Trellus." He picks one up and looks it over but can't seem to find anything unusual about it (appraise 2). "Enchanted, eh? Well, I can't tell a difference. Still, can't hurt to have a few extra on hand." He adds the arrows to his quiver, noting the differences between the fletching on those arrows and his own.
Flea d20+11=24 Thursday May 6th, 2004 5:24:10 PM
With a hand to her mouth to amplify the sound, Flea calls down, "I surely would like to try out the boots, Trellus! An' after eveyone has checked out the stuff, if no one wants the ring or the short bow, I'll at least carry them and try them out. We can always share things like the ring."
Flea continues to scan the plains. (Search=24)
Tiev and Zilia d20+7=9 d20+9=16 d20+7=26 d20+9=10 Thursday May 6th, 2004 5:28:42 PM
Using their natural intuitiveness to sense a proper direction, the wasps fly a reconaissance of the area searching for the ship described by Gilan.
Mac Thursday May 6th, 2004 7:38:40 PM
The long-haired taur pitches in on deck - hauling ropes and other such when he isn't on the tiller.
When the spoils start being divied and requested, Mac asks, "Could I have the bracers? I think they are more my thing."
Gilan Thursday May 6th, 2004 9:15:18 PM
Gilan watches as everyone takes what they need of the spoils. He is not worried as nothing was of overly great use to him. He is just hoping that they can make the best use of what they have.
Moving back to stand by Trellus he cannot help but smile. "Hopefully my friends will return with good news." He leans on the rail as he considers what the halfling had said earlier. "Did he speak the truth about the druid and the seed?" He seems worried about that particularly.
SPELLS
0th: create water(2), detect magic, read magic, light 1st: endure elements, faerie fire, speak with animals(2#) 2nd: barkskin(2), spider climb 3rd: cure moderate wounds, meld with stone
DM George Thursday May 6th, 2004 10:30:12 PM
The two wasps return after several hours away from the ship. The buzz around Gilan excitely and then buzz to the northwest and back.
The halfling calls from his sack, "Uh good Trellus!" He sounds anxious. "Can you please untie me. I really have to go!"
When Trina hears Driblin she will say, "Oh please I have to go too and I am so hungry and thirsty. Just a little water please?"
Jake Friday May 7th, 2004 1:45:51 AM
"Ah personally don't think ya'll are gonna get ta see freedom till you apologize to tha druids..." Grudgingly, Jake unties the top of the sack and leads the halfling over to the lavatories, one hand on his shoulderin a pretty strong grip to make sure he doesn't get away. "But ya know, if y'all do something particularly dumb, or anything to really offend me, ye're sure ta become piggie dinner." Afterwards, he gets the halfling a bit of food, but (not to be maleficient, but more to amusingly see it) while getting it, puts some of the spicy sauce he's been experimenting with. It's called Jake's ole "AWoOOo-HAH!" hot sauce, he thinks to himself, and waits to see the effects.
Tishe' d20+8=27 Friday May 7th, 2004 5:31:54 AM
Tishe' feels confident in sailing the barge (Craft: 27) and effeciently has sailors (and the Bloodpack) moving to get the GrassSwift where Trellus and Gilan say to go.
"I've also got the dagger after Grymash gave it to me." calls the small woman from the tiller-deck.
Grymash crosses his arms and stares at Trellus sullenly. "Do Trellus think Gry dat stupid. Gry not all dat smart but me not uh brain-baked piggie morono!! Gry knows thangs get smaller when thays move far away. Me see da tiny boats befores. Da world only so big, thangs hafta get small ta make more room. When ya gets close, thay grow big again! Everybodies know dat!!" Grymash turns and walks back to his tiller. He continues to grumble, "Gee, everyones think Gry not know thangs gets small when thay go away. Gry not stupid!"
DM George Friday May 7th, 2004 10:08:25 PM
I am gonna hold off posting until I get some more posts from people. Will post over the weekend
Gilan Friday May 7th, 2004 11:37:36 PM
Gilan glances to his wasps and interprets that the ship is in the direction that his friends are indicating. Maybe they can still catch it after all.
He glances to Jake as he takes the halfling to take a leak and then glances to the wizardess as well. "Maybe one of the females should take her or both." He glances to Trellus and shrugs his shoulders. "After all...we are not the monsters they think we are." He will take care of it himself if he has too, but it would be an uncomfortable thing.
SPELLS
0th: create water(2), detect magic, read magic, light 1st: endure elements, faerie fire, speak with animals(2#) 2nd: barkskin(2), spider climb 3rd: cure moderate wounds, meld with stone
Trellus Saturday May 8th, 2004 1:28:23 PM
"Northwest, Captian!" Trellus cries. "Follow those wasps.
The cleric wears a half grin as Grymash stomps off. He is really fond of that big lug.
The mage's request gives him some pause. "Hmmm." "Flea!" he calls up to the top of the boat. "Could you come down here?" Once the rogue is on the ground, Trellus looks uncomfortable. "She, uh...she has to go," he says, distinctly uncomfortable. "Umm, we really shouldn't untie her hands........." Trellus trails off, looking pleadingly at the gnome.
Flea d20+11=20 d20+6=15 Saturday May 8th, 2004 9:14:49 PM
Flea scrabbles down from the rigging when Trellus calls. "I'll take her to the head," volunteers the gnome. Flea performs a quick search of the female mage (Search=20) to ensure that the others haven't missed anything.
The gnome takes her new hooked hammer in hand as she escorts the female prisoner to the front of the vessel. If the woman tries any funny business, Flea will try to trip her with the pointy end of the weapon. (Hit AC 15)*
*Don't know if you want me to apply the 'new rules' for trip attacks.
DM George Saturday May 8th, 2004 11:11:24 PM
Trina seems humble enough as she goes to the head. She will look Flea up and down and say, "Could you please untie my hands or at least tie them in fron to me? I can't lift my smock this way? Where am I going to go?"
The ship changes direction and starts to follow the correct course but the Captain speaks up and says, "They are still faster than us even if we are on the right course. They have a more experienced crew and a big lead. We need to slow them down if we expect to catch them."
Flea Sunday May 9th, 2004 9:58:07 PM
"I don't think so," smirks Flea as she moves behind the mage and prods her with the end of the hammer in the direction of the head. Once they are near the place where the sailors perch when it is time to lighten their load, the gnome picks up the woman's robes, and tucks the skirt up over her hands where they are tied together. "This should do the trick," she says as she dispassionately pushes the woman backwards, then down by the shoulders until she is seated. Flea looks down at the scrubbed planks of the deck, but makes sure to keep the mages feet in view. Her hand is firmly wrapped 'round the leather bound handle of her hammer.
Tishe' d20+8=27 Monday May 10th, 2004 1:37:26 AM
"Northwest it is." confirms Tishe' and continues to sail the GrassSwift (Craft:27)
She pulls at her wavy brown ponytail and ponders how to slow down a vessel they can't see or catch up to on the ground.
"I'm fresh out of flying magic, but if we get someone to wreck the other boat's steering oars or sails, that would slow them down."
The small woman continues, thinking aloud. "Can't run them down, don't have a faster boat, the only way to stop them short is to fly. The only one who can fly is Gilan shaped like a wasp."
"If Gilan were loaded down with alchemist fire, he could burn the sails, and bespell the Grass to entangle the steering poles. That will slow the barge down!"
She hurries to tell Trellus and Gilan.
Trellus Monday May 10th, 2004 8:47:38 AM
The young man sighs with deep exasperation at the Captain's words. "How are we supposed....." he begins, only to get cut off by Tishe'.
Trellus is skeptical. "Does anyone have Alchemist's Fire?" he asks. "And how does Gilan throw the stuff if he's a wasp?"
He turns to the druid. "What do you think?"
Grymash Monday May 10th, 2004 11:13:49 AM "If Gry an Mac fly again, dat wood lighten up da load. An me think dat weez could slow down da other boat. Weez have ways dont we, Mac?" Grymash says with a devilish grin.
Gilan Monday May 10th, 2004 4:39:13 PM
Gilan listens to the propossed idea and shakes his head. "I would have to take my human form again to bomb them with the alchemists fire and that would leave me at a big disadvantage." With a quick review of his other spells that he could have gotten today he shakes his head. "I should have asked the Wold Mother for a wall of air." He shakes his head and casts about for another idea.
With another thought he makes a suggestion that would be just as bad as alchemist fire. "With a little support...maybe three of us could fly ahead to the ship. We all know how well water draws the creatures of the Plains...I could cast a water spell on the ship, drenching as much as possible in water and the bugs should slow it down." It is only a suggestion but he is running out of other ideas.
Looking to Grymash who had volunteered earlier he jabs his thumb in his direction. "If someone can make the two big guys fly I could use their help out there. That might allow me to save my shapechanging ability as well if they grew a little." Now he just has to wait and see what they can do.
SPELLS
0th: create water(2), detect magic, read magic, light 1st: endure elements, faerie fire, speak with animals(2#) 2nd: barkskin(2), spider climb 3rd: cure moderate wounds, meld with stone
Jake Monday May 10th, 2004 10:47:49 PM
(I assume that Jake waits until the halfling is completely done, then shoves him in the sack. Then, he will do the following.)
Jake looks at a potion he has on his belt. Won it in a lottery, once. Makes him go faster, they say. But he doesn't mention it... trusting to that magic might have similar consequences to flying around crazily again. "This might sound like a stupid question, but uh, can we run faster than the boat? Ah mean...ah don't understand how fast this goes. And how Gilan can change into a wasp."
To be honest, he has no real ideas....other than dumping excess cargo, like the halfling. The woman he doesn't trust much either, since she uses magic...
DM George "Deals" Monday May 10th, 2004 11:09:45 PM
Trina calls to Trellus and when he comes over will say, "I have heard that you are letting my halfling friend go. Maybe we can work a deal as well. I have some magical talent and might be able to help you if you agree to allow me to go as well. I am a sorcerous and know the fly spell. If you let me go, give me some food and some seed money, I will cast the spell for you."
Tishe does and excellent job of helping with the running of the ship and is getting compliments from the real crew.
The ship sail on towards the Northwest.
Anuk Tuesday May 11th, 2004 12:39:47 AM
Anuk anxiously peers ahead toward the horizon. No sign of the other ship, but he knows they can't be far.
Listening in on the talking, Anuk pipes up with, "I agree...if we can manage to get Mac and Gry flying again, that might help. I think keeping them invisble would be good, too...no sense in offering our biggest targets to the enemy. I don't know that I trust the mage...any ideas on how to tell if she's gonna keep her word? At any rate, whatever happens to her, I say she goes to the monks before she goes free."
Tishe' d20+8=28 Tuesday May 11th, 2004 1:36:27 AM
The small woman continues in directing the sailing so the Captain can have some time off (Sailing: 28)
Yet her energetic mind can rarely concentrate on only one thing at a time, and she comes back to what Trina has offered.
"Trellus, I say accept the offer. There are only so many spells she could cast, and if she uses the opportunity to attack us, she'll get killed. I know I would if it was me against all of you." she grins.
And soon turns serious. "It's the best way to stop the other ship."
And turns thoughtful. "And proof that she's a mercenary, willing to cut her losses when there is no profit."
Mac Tuesday May 11th, 2004 3:06:27 AM
"Count me in. I'm 'appy to do what I can, but..." Mac pauses as a thought strikes him. "...without a mast they'd slow down. Gry an' I could try a lightning quick attack against the masts, or... do any of our magickers know how to warp something as thick as a mast?"
Trellus Tuesday May 11th, 2004 11:30:29 AM
The young man runs his hand over the back of his head. The sorceress' offer comes uncomfortably close to what he was just thinking about.
Sourly, his mind flails about for any other option, and he comes up empty.
"Oh, LIGHT!" he growls. "OK, you spell up Mac and Gry with the Fly spell, and when they get back with their thread intact, we'll talk about what you get to take with you."
He turns to the half orc and the taur. "Look dudes, nothing fancy. Shred their sails, break their steering poles, slow them down. DO NOT take on the whole ship! Gilan and his wasps'll go with you to point it out."
He glances over at Trina. "How long does this spell last?"
DM George "Hopes dashed?" Tuesday May 11th, 2004 4:39:43 PM
The bright look in Trina's eyes suddenly diminishes and she mumbles, "Around 7 minutes or so....guess that isn't enough time to get you there. I am sorry."
She looks up and says, "If you even get one man aboard that ship though, you will be able to beat it. The captain has a knowledge of arms but the rest are regular sailors. They might swing a sword but won't have any real skill."
OOC Folks we might have to admit the ship has gotten away unless you come up with a workable plan in the next couple of days. Need to move forward with the module....George
Completely aggrivated at this point, Grymash bellows, "GRY SICK OF DIS! WEEZ MOVIN' TOO SLOW. ME JUS WANT TA GET OFF AN PUSH DIS SORRY SUN-BAKED BARGE!!! AUUGGHHH!!" Suddenly his eyes go wild with thought. "Weez PUSH ... weez PULL ... weez FLY!"
Grymash pulls out several large coils of rope from his handy haversack and they go plop on the deck. "Demontaur Mac is strong, like Gry, but he bigger. Weez cast Flyin' magik on Mac an pull boat wit ropes. Weez go faster. When magik be unwoven, an Mac fall, weez weave da Flyin' magik again!! Huh, wut ya think?" Then his eyes get even wider. "Woooaaahh!! Wit Mac off boat, boat lighter... goo faster! WOW, Gry smart!!"
Flea Tuesday May 11th, 2004 9:43:26 PM
Since Trellus doesn't need her to piggie-sit the mage, Flea seeks out her new friend Tishe'. She weaves a plan for the woman, who appears to know a thing or two about sailing, and asks for an opinion.
"Cap'n" jokes the rogue, "I don't know much about the winds on the plains, or how these boats work," Flea continues, "but, if I wanted to catch an enemy by stealth, I wouldn't go chasing them around." The gnome takes a big breath, "I'd do a little math, try and figger' out where they're heading, and cut them off."
Flea looks for Tishe's reaction, then scratching her neck under her chin, and looking out of the corner of her eyes, she adds "or, we could feint distress! You know, run up signal flags, shoot up some flare-type spells. Maybe we could bluff them into coming to our rescue, thinking they might capture us?"
Gilan Tuesday May 11th, 2004 9:43:49 PM
Gilan glances to Gry and then nods his head. If they do not slow down that ship then they are not going to catch it.
He nods to Trellus and then speaks. "Using my ability to change shape I could easily make it to the ship. Maybe with the right summoning I could punch holes in the sails or rip them to shreds." He looks to the others and then shrugs. "Of course I cannot guarantee that I will make it back alive...I would have to trek through the grasses on my own for some miles to get back."
Looking to the mage again he wonders if she has any spells that would also help them out. "How far do you think that Gry and Mac could get with the sorceress's fly spell anyway?" He glances to the boots that will aid in movement and shrugs. "Maybe the boots would allow one of them to get to me...at least in time to keep me alive." He is grasping at straws and those closest too him will realize this.
SPELLS
0th: create water(2), detect magic, read magic, light 1st: endure elements, faerie fire, speak with animals(2#) 2nd: barkskin(2), spider climb 3rd: cure moderate wounds, meld with stone
Tishe' d20+8=22 Wednesday May 12th, 2004 12:21:18 AM
Tishe' sits on a handy coil of rope with Flea. Her earlier enthusiasm has run out, and the small woman is equally despondent.
She gives a sad smile to the gnome, but shakes her head. "Each are good plans if the beaters were not trying to run straight away from us. There is no corner to cut, nor are they likely to stop for a distressed ship."
Grymash and Gilan's plans only seem to be like the frenetic actions of the weaver who is working with glass thread.
She sighs again, but the energy in her can't stay desolate for long. A fire comes back to her eyes, and she turns to Flea with a fresh briskness. "If the ship has escaped, our course is clear. We'll see Trellus to tell us to go to the encampment soon."
And she gets back up and returns to her purpose of sailing the ship (Craft: 22)
Trellus Wednesday May 12th, 2004 10:23:30 AM
The young man sits on the deck, thinking hard. It would probably be best just to go home and warn the monks, but maybe Gry's idea would work. He's at the last thread, but he's gotta try something.
"If we can just get close enough to see them, Gilan would probably be OK" he muses.
"Let's try Gry's idea. Trina, keep Mac flying till you can't anymore. How many times can you cast that spell?"
"And what's this encampment like? How many defenders? How strong? And where is it?"
"Tishe, have you got Alchemists Fire?"
"Let's get Mac rigged up."
Mac Wednesday May 12th, 2004 4:40:34 PM
"Okay then, rig me! Can ye give me an idea how much I'll be carrying? If I can carry everyone an' everything then that would be less spells, right?"
"An' Gry? No sheddin' blood!" he says with half a smile.
"Gilan, are you coming along? An' if so, how big'r'ye going t'be?"
Trellus Wednesday May 12th, 2004 4:49:40 PM
"No, no, Mac. You're gonna pull THIS boat," the man corrects him.
Anuk Wednesday May 12th, 2004 8:09:38 PM
As they settle on the plan, Anuk checks to make sure all his equipment is with him and available. As the others rig up Mac, he returns to the tiller, following any orders coming from Tishe'.
"Good luck up there, Mac!" he calls out.
Jake Wednesday May 12th, 2004 8:11:20 PM
Jake silently agrees with Grymash, but making a big whine of himself wouldn't quite work out. He's too sensible for that. Instead, he looks at Gilan. "Uhmm...ah think ya should go ahead and try to get there by yarself. If ya need this, take this.. to go twice as fast." He hands over his potion of speed. "Ah dunno how long it lasts, tho. Ah also have this one, of invisibility. So, you could be pretty danged effective, no?"
Gilan Wednesday May 12th, 2004 10:12:03 PM
Gilan looks to Jake and shakes his head in thanks. He turns to Trellus and grins. "With the invisibility potion I could beat a hasty retreat that is for sure and still do them in." He has more confidence in the plan than he did just a few minutes ago.
He looks to the others with an ever widening grin. "Give the word Trellus and you have one stopped ship...I can almost guarantee it." Are his words just idle boasts or can he really do it, that is still to be seen.
Glancing back to Jake he takes the invisibility potion. "This one will be fine and you keep the other one." He gently taps near a small disc that is afixed to his arm and smiles. "Remember the little disc that gave us greater movement speed for a short time...I still have that."
SPELLS
0th: create water(2), detect magic, read magic, light 1st: endure elements, faerie fire, speak with animals(2#) 2nd: barkskin(2), spider climb 3rd: cure moderate wounds, meld with stone
DM George Wednesday May 12th, 2004 10:32:44 PM
Trina will call out to any who will listen, "I don't think having the minotaur is going to be very effective. He might speed up the boat for 1/2 an hour but it won't be nearly enough to catch the other ship.
I will cast the spells, as I want to help and earn my freedom but this plan won't work. If the other ship is even moving 1/2 a mile an hour faster than you, it gained 6 miles distance last night. If the druid can slow or cripple the other ship, then I can help more as you board when you get closer. You would be wasting the spells now. If you want to though, I am willing."
Gilan transforms himself into a wasp and buzzes off being lead by his other wasp friends. (How long can Gilan stay transformed?) He has his potions on him but they aren't accessible in his wasp form.
Trina goes on to say, "The camp will be a tough nut to crack. It will have at least 100 soldiers plus several officers and other hunter groups like us. It will also depend on if there is any ships in port. If it is a raiding ship, you could face another crew like my old one.
Then there is the General in charge of the encampment. Her name is General Likara. She is one tough customer. I have never seen anyone swifter with a sword. No offense but the camp is beyond your ablilities. You would all die there.
I don't know how to get there from here. I might be able to figure my way once you get closer to the mountain range, where I can get my bearings and maybe recognize a landmark."
Flea d20+5=9 Wednesday May 12th, 2004 11:58:39 PM
Although she tries not to show it (Bluff=9) Flea is frightened. She's not afraid of the mage, but the tapestry the woman weaves with her words alarms the little rogue.
With a strained smile, and terror in her eyes, Flea petitions her pack, "Trellus, Tishe', Gry, guys....lets go back. We can't do this alone."
Tishe' d20+8=11 Thursday May 13th, 2004 1:29:28 AM
"I have 2 vials of Alchemist Fire", replies the small woman, digging into her satchel. She produces two small clay vials, carefully stoppered and sealed with wax.
Other than that, the conjurer is out of ideas.
She continues to sail the ship (Sailing:11), but her mind is only half on how they are getting to wherever they are going.
Mac Thursday May 13th, 2004 9:24:36 AM
"Not that I wouldn't want to, but I thought that the idea was dismissed as sunbaked last night?" He tilts his head to the side for a moment, and then start talking again. "Okay, I'll save the enlarge for once I'm up an' flying. Does anyone have a Strength o'the Bull potion?"
Trellus Thursday May 13th, 2004 11:22:53 AM
Trellus has spent a whole lot of time this morning rubbing the back of his head, an action his long time packmates easily interpret as his "what do I do now?" habit.
"We will not attack the base," he announces. "Not with that many treadles in it."
"And, we will not try to fly this boat any faster. Trina is right, there is no point."
He sighs. Gilan has a bad habit of getting weft and web with mostly dead. But, there are no options.
"OK Gilan. You're on. If that ship is within sight of their base, don't weave anything and get back here as fast as you can."
"Everybody give those potions and things to Gilan. Them boots too. They could help on the way back."
Trellus watches his friend take off.
"Be careful, dude," he whispers.
Tiev and Zilia Thursday May 13th, 2004 12:35:52 PM
The two wasps flank their friend as he heads off on his scouting mission towards the ship.
Anuk Thursday May 13th, 2004 3:59:15 PM
With the shift in plans, Anuk draws up alongside Gilan before he transforms. "We want you back, Gilan. Trellus is right...you see anyone else aside from those on the ship and you get back as fast as you can." After a brief pause he touches Gilan on the shoulder and says in a quieter voice, "Many shadows, my friend. Thank you for doing this."
When Gilan flies off, Anuk sends a heart touch after him.
DM George "Sightings" Thursday May 13th, 2004 9:19:31 PM
The Grass Swift keeps on gliding along and the wasps all soon disappear from sight. The pack looks at each other and wonders if they will ever see their friend again.
Gilan flies for about two hours and then sees the ship he is pursuing in the distance. It has 3 sails up and he sees humans moving around on the deck. Two humans are working the steering poles and 3 more are up in the rigging.
The ship is very simular to the Grass Swift.
Gilan - HP: 43, AC: 18 d3=3(amount of fire elementals summoned) Thursday May 13th, 2004 11:54:28 PM
Gilan catches up with the ship a little faster than he would have planned, but that meant that his friends might catch up easier. Using his smaller size to his advantage he surveys the ship and the surrounding area for a base or to see how close to the mountains they are.
If they are far enough away to allow him ample time to do that which he has to do he will pull up in front of the ship and off to the side. He will then change back to his human form. This should give him enough time to cast his spell as the mast is passing by. He casts a summoning spell that will conjure up three fire elementals. He will place them as high in the rigging and sails as possible so that they can set fire to things as they move down.
OR
If the ship is too close to make an attempt at slowing it down or stopping the ship he will return to his friends with the news.
[burn - meld into stone for summon nature's ally III]
Grymash d20+7=20 Friday May 14th, 2004 1:55:17 AM
After hours of waiting impatiently, Grymash catches what he thinks is a whiff of something. Gry asks to no one in particular, "Yoouz smell dat?!"
(Survival 20)
Tishe' d20+8=9 Friday May 14th, 2004 2:16:17 AM
Stymied of anything else useful to do, the small woman bustles around, trying to get the most out of the sailors and the GrassSwift. (Nat 1!) She only gets in her own way, countermanding her own orders and making it a frustrating time for all.
"Ooohhh ... PIGGIES!!!" she yells in exasperation.
Flea d20+1=18 d20+11=31 d20+7=17 Friday May 14th, 2004 7:36:51 AM
Flea once again climbs (Climb=18) up the main mast, and twines her legs through the cross bar supporting the main top-gallant. With her hand shielding her eyes she scans the horizon for any signs of The enemy boat, Gilan or anything else of interest (Search=31, nat 20!, Spot=17). She will shout down to the pack if she sees anything.
Trellus Friday May 14th, 2004 9:12:09 AM
Trellus paces...and paces some more.
After a while, he approaches the Captian. "I want to thank you for your efforts," he tells the man. "Are there any nearby places we can unload these two," he asks, indicating the halfling and mage.
"And how far are we from both Rattledam and the Crystal Mountains?"
Anuk Friday May 14th, 2004 3:02:33 PM
Anxiety over Gilan's welfare grows as the time passes, and Anuk tries to keep his mind on the tasks of helping to run the ship. He stifles a small chuckle as he watches Tishe' run around, commanding this and that. He knows she's trying to keep busy as well during the wait. When she finally gives in to exasperation and shouts her expletive, Anuk breaks out into a belly laugh.
"That's not bad, Tishe'," he says, "but you might want to take a few lessons from Gry if you really want to learn the art of swearing."
DM George d20+2=14 d20+2=14 d20+2=16 d6=5 d20+3=4 d20+3=12 d20+3=12 d4=2 d4=2 d4=3 d4=1 d100=63 Friday May 14th, 2004 4:33:23 PM
Gilan's scene. Gilan has no trouble catching up with the ship and passing it. The cyrstal mountains are in view but still many miles away.
Gilan summons his fire elementals and they gleefully start burning up the sails and masts. Shouts of outrage and panic can be heard from the ship as the sailors try to put out the flames and drive away the elementals.
Gilan sees one sailor screaming in agony as he catches fire from attacking the elemental and then falls out of the rigging into the grasses below. Another burning sailor crashes to the deck.
The ship sails by but it is sending up a lot of smoke and sparks are starting to land in the dry grasses around it.
The Grass Swift; The ship sails on racing to try and catch up with the other ship.
The Captain says, "We are a couple of days from Rattledam and a couple of days from the mountain range. About in the middle...why? He will inquire.
Grymash thinks he smells something but one of the sailors behind hims puts his hand over his face and blushes. "Sorry...excuse me..." he hurries away.
Gilan - HP: 43, AC: 18 (spider climb) Friday May 14th, 2004 10:33:55 PM
Gilan smiles in satisfaction as his fire elementals go to work on the sails and the sailors. He watches as the ship starts to move past him and then begins another spell. With a last look to the grasses that have caught a little on fire he touches his hands to the passing ship.
"That should slow them down a little maybe." With a slowness born of new caution he starts to slowly work his way up the side of the ship. He will peek over the side to see the true outcome of the battle with his pets.
[3 Small Fire Elementals - 4 rounds] [Spider Climb - 50 minutes 0 seconds] SPELLS
Tishe' d20+8=10 Saturday May 15th, 2004 6:29:30 AM
The plain-faced woman stares at Anuk for a second, then has to laugh herself. "Thanks Anuk," she says and lays a hand on his arm, "I needed that." Speculatively, she continues, "It would take more time than I have to learn swearing as well as Grymash, though."
She turns back to running the ship, but her anxiety shows and still does a mediocre job.
[OOC: rolled a 2? What is this! :)]
Flea d20+7=20 d20+11=26 Sunday May 16th, 2004 3:23:22 PM
The gnome clings atop the main mast, scanning the plains and sending out a quiet prayer to whatever god might hear the words of a small gnome. She asks that Gilan be returned safely to the pack after he has done what he sees fit to do.
(Spot=20, Search=26)
Anuk d20+10=16 d20+8=15 Sunday May 16th, 2004 7:04:10 PM
Anuk returns to helping run the ship, but keeps an eye on the horizon for any sign of Gilan...or the enemy ship.
(spot 16, search 15)
Jake Sunday May 16th, 2004 11:01:12 PM
The crusty fighter chuckles. "Tha only reason y'all think Grymash can swear is 'cause of 'is volume. Ah tell ya, that boy has no technique whatsoneveh." Jake, expecting Grymash to try some trick like sneaking up and dumping a bucket of water on him after this speech, volunteers for the crow's nest.
Trellus Monday May 17th, 2004 3:12:19 PM
"Just wondering about how we'd do if we had to run for it," Trellus answers.
"Also, I'd like to unload these two."
Grymash d20+7=13 d20-2=-1 Monday May 17th, 2004 7:50:52 PM
Grymash winces slightly as the sailor hurries off. "Huhh!" mutters Grymash as he sniffs the air again. "No, not you Grass Biter. Gry smells somethin' else!" (Survival 13)
Grymash turns to Jake and the others. "Gry swears in two tongues. Orc tongue be filled wit lots of curses. Most ya hafta says loud. Their be one tongue dat Gry know of dat is nothin' but words of hate, curses, lies and biggie meaniness. It called ... uhh, infurr... enpurr (Intelligence -1) mebobbopernal, uhh, OHHHH PIGGIE DUMPS!" bellows a frustrated Grymash. "Gry not knows wut called. It be Demon-speak."
DM George Monday May 17th, 2004 10:25:46 PM
Gilan's scene: The ship's rigging is totally ablaze and the elementals are starting to move down the masts and onto the decks. Only one person is putting any kind of resistance up and trying to lead a defense. He is better dressed than the others and the sailors are listening to him. Gilan assumes it is the Captain.
With his orders the sailors attack the elementals and quickly dispatch them, but the damage is done. The ship's rigging is totally destroyed and the sparks and flying debris has fallen into the grasses and start several fires there.
Gilan easily climbs to the top of the ship and looks over the railing.
Grass Swift: The ship moves on and Grymash starts to sputter and rage around trying to say something but nobody really understands what he is talking about.
The Captain will tell Trellus that their is a small trading encampment around 1 days journey to the East or they could just head back to Rattledam to drop the prisoners off.
Flea from her perch on the crow's nest can see far in the distance smoke starting to rise from the plains.
Flea Monday May 17th, 2004 10:47:49 PM
From her perch the gnome will gesticulate wildly, trying to catch the attention of those below, all the while yelling at the top of her voice, "Fire! Fire on the plains!"
Anuk d20+10=30 d20+8=10 Monday May 17th, 2004 10:58:05 PM
Anuk hears Flea's voice coming from above. He looks up and cups a hand to one ear.
"Wha?...Fire?" He looks to the horizon to see what Flea is pointing at.
Hope Gilan is okay, he thinks. Hope we're okay, too, when those flames reach here.
Anuk climbs up the rigging a ways to look around for any patches of bare ground or low grass that might act as a fire break.
(spot 30 - natural 20!, search 10)
Gilan - HP: 43, AC: 18 (spider climb) Monday May 17th, 2004 11:57:43 PM
Gilan supresses a smile as he looks at the destruction on the ship but he is not too happy about the fire on the plains. Still it should not spread too far when it hits some of those water bulges, then again some of the grass is fireproof on its own.
He watches as the assumed Captain pulls the sailor together and quickly crushes his elementals. "That one will be a small problem if the others do not get here soon." He takes a look to see how well the ship is still moving. He has hoped to have slowed it down at least enough that his old ship can catch them.
Tishe' d20+8=11 Tuesday May 18th, 2004 1:48:15 AM
Keeps the ship running on an even course (Craft: 11), but is still too worried to pay much attention.
On Flea's cry from the mast, the small woman smiles and stops playing with her pony tail. "That must be Gilan," she says satisfatorily, "I hope he gets good use out of the 2 jars of alchemist's fire I gave him."
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