Keelhaul him! (DM BatMark) Saturday September 22nd, 2018 4:52:58 PM Ungy, Bigby, and Barnaby all openly question the Captain’s decision, with varying degrees of courtesy, earning a hairy eyeball from her. A dwarven soldier next to the Captain turns to the mouthy party members and says in a strange accent, "Do not back-sass Le Capitan!" Askel more calmly notes that the punishment is set out in the expedition’s code.
’Lil and Caelwyn back up the Captain’s judgment, and mildly dress down their fellow party members. Caelwyn does ask whether the accused dwarf said anything before or after striking the Captain. The dwarf soldier near the Captain turns to the two and says, "You’d best get your friends under control...or maybe they were in on this little crime spree too?" He turns to look at Ungy, Bigby, and Barnaby suspiciously.
Sol and Haemir both more discreetly make inquiries of the Captain’s conclusions and intentions.
The Captain silently takes the rope handed to her by Haemir, pausing only for a moment at the questions and comments from the Bloodwitch...she does not seem persuaded to change course, despite the quiet entreaties She then turns to several of the dwarf soldiers accompanying her, handing them the rope and ordering them to bind Melin and begin his punishment. "Keelhaul him!"
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=4 ; d20+9=11 ; Saturday September 22nd, 2018 7:39:01 PM
Sol speaks up.
"I am sorry captain, I must protest. This man has not had a legal trial. I appreciate the need for a clear chain lf command and punishment, but we have no proof this sailor is guilty of anything! If you keelhaul you are simple teaching your men and women that all they need do is make an accusation and you will keelhaul the person they accuse with no real proof."
Sol attempts to argue that punishment without trial is illegal using his knowledge of History to back up his point (Persuade 4, Knowledge 11)
He turns to Haemir and Lil and Caelwyn.
"You would allow them to kill a man without trial?"
He is aghast and appears shocked and possibly even appalled at the casual disregard for life.
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+2=10 ; d20+2=22 ; Sunday September 23rd, 2018 7:40:59 AM
Haemir winces at Sol's reaction and studies him for a few seconds. "Sol, this is their ship - their rules! Remember we are guests here. We have made our cases and to further push it will only exasperate things. Anyway, generally Keelhauling doesn't kill people, it's infection after the event and we have sufficient healers between us. What's more, right or wrong - to not punish him sends the wrong message out to the crew. Pretty soon everyone will be thinking it's acceptable to steal or hit senior officers and that could cost more lives in the long term. It's a different world at Sea my friend and you'd do well to remember that." (Diplomacy:10 - he looks at his friend and realises he could have said certain things better but hopes Sol grasps the weight of the situation).
He turns to the Captain. "Forgive my colleague's outburst Captain. It's his first time in a ship and he's a soft land lubber" he says attempting to smooth things over (Diplomacy:22).
He steps over to Sol and at an opportune time whispers "How about we keep an eye on his accuser for a few days?"
Barnaby Filius Volant - (Ayla) - 7/7 HP - AC 14/12/14 - CMD 11, Active Spells = none Sunday September 23rd, 2018 11:10:08 AM
Barnaby relinquishes the fight, listening to Haemir, trusting to his experience at sea. He reassures himself that healing the dwarf post-keelhauling is probably the best course of action to keep them in good graces with the Captain and still do what they can to help.
He watches grimly, but does not speak again.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Sunday September 23rd, 2018 11:51:19 AM
Bigby looks over to the captain and then looks back to Sol and then back to the captain and then back to Haemir. He then looks back to the captain and then back to Sol. Bigby nods at Sol as if to say I got your back if you need it because at the end of the day all a wolf's got is your pack. Bigby chooses to remain silent and will see how this plays out but will be ready to defend any of his friends in the group.
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 d20=17 ; d20=17 ; Sunday September 23rd, 2018 4:45:55 PM
Caelwyn chuckles at the dwarven soldier's comment, looking amused. "You have absolutely no reason to worry about my comrades, soldier. They are all honest folk. They are simply unused to maritime or martial life, and the disciplinary code that goes along with it." (Diplomacy 25)
Caelwyn looks around to see if there are any other crew members nearby who he could speak to who may have witnessed what happened below. (Perception 19)
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 Monday September 24th, 2018 11:56:55 AM
'Lil feels her new friends have covered all the bases. She remains silent on the matter for now.
Besides, even if he didn't steal, he still assaulted the guy.
Ungy (Jort) - 10/10 HP - AC 13/13/10 - CMD 10 Monday September 24th, 2018 1:16:18 PM
Ungy speaks up: "If you do not stop this nonsense right now, I will yodel again. I swear!". He clears his throat, ready to put yodel everybody (and therefore annoy) to death.
DM Tanner Monday September 24th, 2018 11:38:18 PM
Askel Sturmsen appears to listen intently to Haemir, but ultimately shakes his head. "The evidence is clear. If we deviate from our course, it will undermine authority and order. Not only for the rest of our voyage, but once we reach landfall and try to set up the colony as well." He motions to Signi, who quickly rounds up several sailors to haul on the line. "Chaos is a weed, ladies and gentlemen. A weed that must be stamped out. I will not have roustabouts. I will not have rebels." He looks toward Melin with scorn plain on his face. "And I will not have thieves. Captain Harvaldar -- when you are ready."
Melin is picked up at the bicep by two sailors and escorted to the railing. His face is white as a sheet as they near the precipice and look over the edge. Signi speaks quickly with one sailor, who ties the end of the line around his waist and swan-dives overboard. After a minute or so, he emerges from underneath the ship on the other side. A second rope is lowered and he is hauled aboard. A half-dozen sailors line up to lay hold of the end of the line.
Signi looks to Askel. Askel nods. Signi walks over and plants a boot in the middle of Melin's back, sending him overboard. The sailors begin hauling the line in slow, rhythmic pulls.
The ship is eerily silent, save for the padding of the sailor's feed on the main deck and the hiss of the rope scraping the side of the ship. You hear splashing on the other side, and Melin is hauled aboard.
When a sailor is keel-hauled, as Haemir noted to the party, they are pulled along the hull of the ship and scraped roughly against the attached barnacles. These barnacles have shells that are sharp as knives. Melin looks like he has been flogged from his shoulders to his knees. Deep, jagged cuts cover his skin, and he alternates between sputtering for air and screaming in pain. Not just from the cuts, but from the salt water in every wound.
The sailors pull him aboard and drop him on the deck. Askel approaches, and lays a hand on his shoulder. "You have paid the price. May Ffloy forgive your trespasses and profligacy." A golden burst of light pulses beneath his hand, and nearly all of the cuts on Melin are healed. He still gulps for air from the pain, but he is no longer bleeding. Askel turns and addresses the crew. "Let this be a lesson, my brother and sisters. The law is sacred. None are above the law. There is beauty in order."
Signi raises a fist. "The law is sacred!" Nearly all the dwarves repeat in unison, "The law is sacred."
Askel motions to Signi. "Move him to the crew quarters. He can rest for the day. Perhaps some time to ponder his actions will help him to learn this lesson."
Signi hauls Melin up by the collar and marches him toward the crew quarters.
You get the distinct feeling that what you have just witnessed is exactly what Duke Rowan wanted in his employees...
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 d20=10 ; Tuesday September 25th, 2018 1:07:45 AM
Bigby looks to the captain and then back to Ungy and thinks about his yodel and shakes his head no.
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Tuesday September 25th, 2018 8:38:37 AM
Sol watches the... barbarous punishment and while he doesn't appear happy, he is at least less grim the Melin isn't dead.
After a moment he pauses and goes over Aksel and the Captain.
"I apologise for my outburst. I was under the impression you would leave the Sailor wounded or dead. I was not aware your intention was to heal him immediately. I understand that it is different on a ship, and I apologise if I said anything you feel is unfair."
He chuckles, but it is without humour.
"I have never really been on a ship before, it is quite a different world. I thank you for your understanding."
He then heads over to Haemir.
"Thank you for trying to help me. I am glad the man is still alive."
Sol then moves to Bigby solemnly.
"I thank you for your look of support. I appreciate it is not easy, and we have not gotten to know one another particularly well. I would look to rectify that if you would be willing?"
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 Tuesday September 25th, 2018 9:57:40 AM
"Welp, that was unpleasant." 'Lil considers the whole ordeal over with, so she goes about her day.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Tuesday September 25th, 2018 1:23:25 PM
Bigby sees that this ordeal was hard on Sol and says to him " it's not easy to speak one's minds in the face of mutiny. Bigby intends this to said about Barnaby and Ungy as well (although he was a bit uneasy as to how the yodel would sound. I gotta get used to this music thing). You got some grit Sol. Don't let anyone tell you otherwise. Now, let's see how the mead situation is on this boat. Bigby adds in dwarven, "don't tell me these dwarves don't drink?" Bigby nods his head to Sol to go for a walk to get a drink. "Now tell me how you became a wizard over a drink, and anyone is welcome to join he says to anyone listening."
Barnaby Filius Volant - (Ayla) - 7/7 HP - AC 14/12/14 - CMD 11, Active Spells = none Tuesday September 25th, 2018 7:46:17 PM
Barnaby listens quietly and watches the proceedings with a grim face. He finds that his once favorable estimation of Askel has been much reduced. He keeps to himself but he marks the rigid adherence to the laws as something to be wary of. Laws devoid of logic verge on authoritarianism. Barnaby feels concern and seeks out some form of labor to keep his mind in check. He asks about for what he can set himself to on the ship.
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+2=7 ; d20+1=10 ; d20+5=16 ; d20+5=10 ; Tuesday September 25th, 2018 7:53:51 PM
Haemir is moderately pleased how it turned out - it could have been a lot worse he tells himself and gives a slight bow to Askel. He watches Sol and Bigby exchange words and head off in search of mead and despite feeling a desire himself he sees the dark look from Fand and decides against it. Fand heads off to scout after while (Perception:7) and Haemir offers his services helping in the ship (Perception:10 & Sailing:16) and later on he gives some lessons on tying ropes (Teaching:10) and grabs some practice rope (a couple of metres each) starting with the 'Monkey Fist' knot. Monkey Fist knott.
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 Tuesday September 25th, 2018 8:24:51 PM
While he regrets that he was not able to hear more details about how the captain and Askel ascertained Melin's guilt, Caelwyn barely winces at the sight of the dwarf's scarred back. He was used to this sort of corporal punishment, having grown up as a soldier. He nods approvingly as the dwarves intone "The law is sacred".
As the party disperses and Melin is carried to his cabin, Caelwyn joins 'Lil as she walks off. "Certainly no fun to watch, but it had to be done. I worry that our companions don't understand the kind of discipline necessary to make a ship or an army function...perhaps I will speak to some of them."
DM Tanner Tuesday September 25th, 2018 11:55:41 PM Sol shares his thoughts will several crew and party members. 'Lil is unfazed by the ordeal and goes about her business. Bigby sympathizes with Sol, and attempts to lighten the mood by inquiring as to any available liquid refreshment. Barnaby is dismayed by the events, and find himself doubting his former valuation of Askel. Haemir is relieved to see that further bloodshed was averted, and busies himself trying to be useful. His scouting is less than productive, but offering his aid to fellow sailors proves more beneficial, as does helping some of the new sailors to learn a nifty knot. Caelwyn understands the necessity of Askel's actions. He shares his thoughts with 'Lil and wonders whether he needs to speak with other party members.
The dwarves are a hardy lot, in both body and temperament, and most of the crew return to their duties without comment. A few making brief superstitious warding gestures at the blood on the deck, as though to stave off any foulness the blood of a thief might bring them. A few minutes of mopping and no evidence remains.
The Nixie Queen continues her journey, remaining within eyesight of the coast but keeping to the deep waters to avoid any potential sandbars or rocky outcroppings.
Perception DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Half a mile starboard, you see a patch of crimson water. It is roughly circular, and appears to be moving toward the ship... and slowly gaining.}
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 d20+4=6 ; Wednesday September 26th, 2018 10:09:20 AM
'Lil is enjoying the journey so much, she completely fails to notice what is almost certainly approaching danger.
Perception: 6
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+1=7 ; d20+2=12 ; Wednesday September 26th, 2018 12:41:53 PM
Haemir misses it too (Perception:7) but Fand ... flying around scouting squawks and circles above it (Perception:12) a good distance above. Haemir unable to see what is is - knows when Fand is trying to tell him something and loads his cross bow. "Something's out there or Fand wouldn't react like that" he says pointing.i
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+1=5 ; d20+6=21 ; Wednesday September 26th, 2018 1:43:58 PM
Sol smiles at Bigby, and replies in Dwarven
"Highlight to display spoiler: {I would be VERY surprised if they did not have Ale at the very least, if not it is possible they will have some rum. Thank you for your kind words though. Let us go and chat.}"
((Sol fails, Corbin passes, I must remember to use my Familiar more))
Corbin quickly flies down to Sol, and speaks to him in a hushed whisper.
"It appears that the drink will have to wait. Captain!"
Sol moves over to the Captain.
"My Raven, Corbin has seen something off starboard. Something red that is moving towards us he said. I do not know what it is and cannot see it myself."
He turns to his raven.
"Which direction was it, fly off that way so we can see it, but do not go to far from the ship!"
Corbin flies off towards the thing he saw, helping others to spot it and pointing it out to the captain.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 d20+9=27 ; d20+6=11 ; Wednesday September 26th, 2018 2:27:42 PM
Bigby laughs at Sol's response to alcohol. "good one Sol. (Perception roll 27). Bigby sees something in the horizon and hears Sol head call out for the captain. Bigby and Wolfgang shouts out that something is heading this way and points in the direction. Bigby and Wolfgang head over closer to get a better look to understand (knowledge nature 11). Bigby doesn't fully understand what danger is heading this way. Bigby will cast guidance on Wolfgang and brace themselves for any danger. They howl in unison.
Barnaby Filius Volant - (Ayla) - 7/7 HP - AC 14/12/14 - CMD 11, Active Spells = none d20+4=21 ; d20+4=20 ; Wednesday September 26th, 2018 6:25:23 PM
Barnaby stops his labors and looks in the direction of the shouts and sees the crimson shape. He stops what he is doing and takes up a defensive position beside Sol and Bigby. (Perception =21)
"Any idea what it is?" He asks Bigby and Sol
He wrecks his brain to see if he might know what it is.. (Knowledge Arcana =20)
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 d20=13 ; d20=16 ; Wednesday September 26th, 2018 9:19:43 PM
Caelwyn, also spotting the strange phenomenon, approaches his companions and the captain. (Perception 15) "I see it as well...less than a mile away, to our starboard. The water looks...almost red? And whatever it is, it seems to be moving toward us." Caelwyn racks his brain for any kind of religious connections to whatever this thing may be. (Knowledge Religion 16)
DM Tanner Wednesday September 26th, 2018 11:52:23 PM
The party, and by extension Askel and the entire crew, discover a large patch of red off the starboard bow a half-mile away.
Corbin returns, and communicates that the patch is a circular mass of livid red goo. It covered in sea foam and ambulating by unknown means. It is roughly 30 feet across.
The more learned members of the party surmise that, based on the description, it is some type of ooze or swarm. At this distance, and with only the observations of a pet bird, it is difficult to say more. Regardless, it appears to have little in the way of typical anatomy.
One of the sailors takes some quick readings with a sextant. "Captain Askelsen! The thing is gaining ground, and quickly! It may be here within the hour!"
ooc: You have 30 minutes to prepare before the 'thing' will be within 100 feet of the ship.
Barnaby Filius Volant - (Ayla) - 7/7 HP - AC 14/12/14 - CMD 11, Active Spells = none d20+4=21 ; d20+4=20 ; Thursday September 27th, 2018 9:35:13 AM
Barnaby stops his labors and looks in the direction of the shouts and sees the crimson shape. He stops what he is doing and takes up a defensive position beside Sol and Bigby. (Perception =21)
"Any idea what it is?" He asks Bigby and Sol
He wrecks his brain to see if he might know what it is.. (Knowledge Arcana =20)
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 Thursday September 27th, 2018 11:05:32 AM
'Lil helps folk prepare best she's able. When the thing is almost upon them, she'll gather everyone up and bless the party. Then, she'll cast magic weapon on Ramona.
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20+9=14 ; d20+9=28 ; d20+9=20 ; Thursday September 27th, 2018 1:14:24 PM
((Knowledge: Arcana, History and Planes, in that order))
Sol beings to wrack his brains to see if he has ever heard of anything like this before, either a Magical Creature, in the Histories of the Wold to see if he has ever read about anything like it in the past, or even in his studies of the other planes.
"I may have a few ideas about what it could be... give me a moment to think..."
Ungy (Jort) - 10/10 HP - AC 13/13/10 - CMD 10 Thursday September 27th, 2018 1:41:21 PM
Ungy prepares himself mentally, softly singing a traditional battle song under his breath. He is not a fan of the color red, and this thing is too red for his liking.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Thursday September 27th, 2018 1:55:17 PM
Bigby has what seems to have an epiphany look upon him (or to others a look of I just went number 2 in my pants) and he and Wolfgang are off. He asks the captain and anyone around "If anyone wants to assist me in gathering some seaweed from the boat or from the water we can place it in a controlled area on the boat where it looks like maybe this red blob thing will board us and I can cast an entangle spell. This may help slow and control this thing and may buy us some time to fight this thing. Who's with me? just place it all over here if your in. Oh and just make sure you aren't in that area or you may get entangled as well. I'll try to offset the radius of it as best I can." Bigby doesn't wait and heads off to gather what he can with Wolfgang assisting him. 30 minutes...it has to work...you're a druid you can do this Bigby. It's the practical thing to do. Bigby will collect what seaweed he can and place it near where the creature looks like it will board.
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+7=11 ; d20+7=21 ; Thursday September 27th, 2018 7:52:06 PM
Haemir moves to help Bigby after loading his xbow. As he does he ponders (Knowledge: Nature:11 & Dungeoneering:21) any clue of what it is. "Anyone any ideas.."?
Fand continues tracking it from high above.
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 d20=1 ; d20+2=9 ; Thursday September 27th, 2018 8:39:30 PM
Caelwyn weighs the risk of wearing armor on board a ship and decides to don his armor and shield. After this he will take his full panoply of weapons (longsword, shortspear, trident, crossbow) with him above decks. He wants to be fully prepared for whatever this is. He continues to think about whether there are any religious connections to the thing he has seen. (Knowledge religion Natural 1).
Caelwyn stands on the deck, watching the thing approach, and offers another prayer to Domi for protection. (Perception 9)
DM Tanner Thursday September 27th, 2018 11:55:46 PM
The red patch nears within 100 feet, and the crew and your party are afforded a closer look. The 'patch' is actually a swarm composed of several hundred palm-sized balls of ooze that all swim along as a single unit.
Barnaby, Sol, and Haemir all successfully identity the patch an an ooze swarm, a super-organism of smaller oozes.
ooc: You all rolled very well. Here are some tidbits about oozes!
Barnaby, Sol, and Haemir Highlight to display spoiler: {Mindless: No Intelligence score, and immunity to all mind-affecting effects (charms, compulsions, phantasms, patterns, and morale effects). Blind (but have the blindsight special quality), with immunity to gaze attacks, visual effects, illusions, and other attack forms that rely on sight. Immunity to poison, sleep effects, paralysis, polymorph, and stunning. Some oozes have the ability to deal acid damage to objects. Not subject to critical hits or flanking. Does not take additional damage from precision-based attacks, such as sneak attack. Proficient with its natural weapons only. Proficient with no armor. Oozes eat and breathe, but do not sleep.}
You all note, however, that this ooze swarm is much larger than the typical one found in dungeons!
ooc: It is now 100 feet away and will arrive in 10 rounds. What will you do to prepare a fight against a 30'-wide hungry blob?
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Friday September 28th, 2018 1:45:29 AM
Bigby will place as much seaweed on the starboard side of the ship where everyone is anticipating and watching the red ooze to come upon and he will then ready an entangle spell when the ooze enters. Bigby shouts out, "it's mindless and may be acidic. We have to be practical in this battle." Bigby has his spear ready in his other hand.
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Friday September 28th, 2018 3:04:55 PM
Sol, after thinking through what the creature is, brushes his hair back behind his ears for a moment, thinking about what to do next.
"It is not intelligent, but it may appear to see us as either prey or a mate... either way it would not be good..."
He thinks for a moment.
"Perhaps we should try distracting it with lights? Does anyone have a way for causing lights to appear and perhaps we could draw it away?"
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 Friday September 28th, 2018 4:23:00 PM
'Lil is still holding her magic weapon and bless spells until the thing is almost upon them (the two rounds before it's here).
"How're we supposed to smash a bunch'a little oozes, anyway? Guess we'll see."
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 Friday September 28th, 2018 7:27:56 PM
Haemir chants and waves his fingers an lights float towards it (Dancing Lights appear 90' away and move to the side as if trying to draw "it" away) "I'll try it will still be right on top of us. Is there anyway we can launch fire at it Captain? Any powder bombs we can throw, fire or drop?"
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 Friday September 28th, 2018 7:48:08 PM
Caelwyn decides to use his longsword against the oozes - not ideal, but better than a spear or crossbow, he thinks. "I doubt we can intimidate it, but does anyone have suggestions about what will hurt or kill these things? Do they have any weaknesses?"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Friday September 28th, 2018 9:41:41 PM
Ooc can we do knowledge nature to check for weaknesses
DM Tanner Sunday September 30th, 2018 11:40:04 PM
FRIDAY POST
Knowledge (nature) or Wisdom DC 10 Highlight to display spoiler: {Oozes are mindless. Perhaps a distraction would help? Lights might work... Or food.}
Various party members begin their preparations. Crew members scramble about preparing gaff hooks and boarding pikes to repel the ooze. Captain Askel is taken aback by the developments. While seasoned sailors and warriors are on board, none of them are dedicated marines with shipboard combat experience.
The ooze patch is 9 rounds and 90 feet away.
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 d20=14 ; Sunday September 30th, 2018 11:54:00 PM
Caelwyn thinks for a moment. "Captain!" he calls out. "These oozes are essentially mindless creatures. Haemir's lights may work to distract it for a moment, but we will need something more lasting to escape. How much food could we afford to throw overboard as a distraction?"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Monday October 1st, 2018 12:55:13 AM
Bigby speaks out loud "if it comes to a fight, and let's hope that I can entangle it, then I suppose fire might do the trick. Let's just hope we don't burn down the boat." Bigby chuckles a bit at that absurdity...a fire on a boat.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 d20+9=17 ; Monday October 1st, 2018 10:03:50 AM
(ooc accidentally rolled perception but meant to roll knowledge nature. should be minus 3 more from result=14). "I can help with light also."
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 d20+4=13 ; Monday October 1st, 2018 12:11:24 PM
Wisdom: 13
'Lil heads down to the galley, looking for scraps. "Ya got anything bloody? Maybe somethin' that's gone off & smelly?" She starts looking through the pantry, sniffing anything that looks gross. If she finds something, she'll run back up and start hurling it near, but not at, the ooze swarm. Preferably in a location that would take it off its current course.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Monday October 1st, 2018 12:16:43 PM "If anyone is going to toss something to distract that thing, I'll cast light spell on it before you toss it over. Seems practical."
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+7=8 ; Monday October 1st, 2018 6:14:16 PM
Haemir concentrates on the dancing lights - they hover just in front and then move in pace with the ooze before moving slightly to one side. Lowering and testing different heights to find the right spot. He is too locked in thinking and concentrating to properly consider if these things are part of nature (rolled my first "1" on Nature). He tries to slowly direct them at an angle.
"Fand..." the Macaw hears her name and flies (80') back to the ship.
"Fand can drop things if you want to test the meat idea?"
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 Monday October 1st, 2018 7:55:31 PM
"Yes, let's try that", Caelwyn says, helping look for any kind of spare or rotting food that could be thrown to distract the oozes. "This and the lights may be our best chance to distract it long enough to get away. Can we make this ship go any faster?"
Barnaby Filius Volant - (Ayla) - 7/7 HP - AC 14/12/14 - CMD 11, Active Spells = none d20+3=9 ; Monday October 1st, 2018 8:35:56 PM
Barnaby looks at the other preparing various spells and watches and waits, preparing jolt in the event that the goal of distraction is not successful.
Knowledge nature = 9
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None d20=19 ; Tuesday October 2nd, 2018 5:27:32 AM
(Wisdom roll - 19)
Sol thinks for a moment.
"Do we have anything it might consider food? Chum maybe? Perhaps we could throw some of the side of the boat, move away from it and then cast some lights above it to try and draw the creature off?"
DM Tanner Tuesday October 2nd, 2018 10:54:28 PM
ooc: My apologies for missing yesterday. We had company over and I let time get away from me.
Askel Sturmsen hears your ideas and nods in agreement. "Yes, yes, let's see if the beast will enjoy a meal of animal flesh rather than dwarf flesh." He turns to Signi. "Captain Harvaldar! Bring up one of the goats."
Captain Harvaldar disappears below deck quickly, and re-emerges in short order with a fat goat wriggling in her arms.
"Bloody it first." Askel calls out.
Signi nods. She sets it down on the deck, holding one horn with a gauntleted hand, and reaches for a dagger with the other. (ooc: Assuming no one tries to stop her.) With one quick motion she slits the goat's throat. She tosses it overboard while it flails madly, landing with a splash and quickly turning the surrounding water red.
The ooze swarm is now 50 feet from the ship and 40 feet from the goat.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Tuesday October 2nd, 2018 11:35:06 PM it all happened so fast. STOPPPPPP I thought I said...but nothing came out of my mouth. And then the goat's throat was slit. Bigby's shoulders slump a bit and he looks down as he is distraught with not being able to help the animal. Wolfgang looks up sympathetically with Bigby and then snarls. Bigby snaps out of it. "Yeah you're right Wolfgang, if we were out in nature, and hungry, our pack would have eaten him. Well let's see if his sacrifice saves us." Bigby casts light on the goat to hopefully assist in distracting the ooze. You have to be practical about these things.
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Wednesday October 3rd, 2018 2:55:47 AM
Sol watches as they throw the goat overboard, once it is illuminated he looks out towards the swarm to see if it is coming after them or being distracted as they planned. He is holding his breath without realising as he realises he is very unprepared for this sort of problem today.
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 Wednesday October 3rd, 2018 5:54:42 AM
Haemir notices the ooze is completely ignoring his dancing lights so shrugs... Fand lands on his shoulder. He winces at the goats treatment but does nothing to stop it.
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 Wednesday October 3rd, 2018 10:26:35 AM
"Aww, too bad they had to kill a goat. I was hopin' they just had some stuff that'd gone off. I doubt oozes are too fussy about what they eat."
'Lil watches from the railing of the ship, real curious about how the ooze swarm will react.
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 d20=9 ; Wednesday October 3rd, 2018 7:39:13 PM
Caelwyn watches as well, interested to see how the swarm will react to the possibility of gaining a free meal. He also takes a quick look around the ship in every direction, to be sure they are not ignoring any other dangers while focusing on the oozes. (Perception 9)
DM Tanner Wednesday October 3rd, 2018 11:45:55 PM
The party observes that the ooze appears indifferent to magical light. You surmise that is likely because it is broad daylight. At night, your lights may have found more success.
The ooze approaches the goat, hesitates, then engulfs it outright. The goat's bleating is silenced as quickly as it disappears from your view. The ooze swarm quivers as it packs into a tight ball around the animal. It is no longer following the ship.
"Full sails!" screams Askel. "Full sails, brothers! We must take advantage of this precious time!"
The sailors quickly clamber up the masts and unfurl the sails. Every eye watches the red patch, which does not appear to follow as the Nixie Queen plows onward.
All hands give hearty sighs of relief and several make brief intonations to the gods in thanks. Askel and Signi are beaming. "Thank the ancestors!" Signi calls out. "That was some quick thinking, adventurers! I'm glad we have you aboard. No doubt this lot would have tried to axe and hammer their way through the beast."
It appears your quick thinking has spared you a difficult fight!
ooc: No joke, I had a map ready and everything. You each gain 200 experience points.
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Thursday October 4th, 2018 2:59:48 AM
Sol breathes a hearty sigh of relief, glad that their plan managed to dodge the fight.
He turns to Bigby, "Perhaps now we can have that drink?"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Thursday October 4th, 2018 10:14:59 AM
Bigby's a bit stunned by the recent events, but he hears Sol mention drink and thinks that would be very appropriate for the given previous situation. Bigby nods his head yes and says "ok, but nothing red." Bigby heads off to get a drink with his friend.
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 Thursday October 4th, 2018 10:15:38 AM
"Are all voyages this busy?" asks 'Lil to the closest sailor. "We've had sahaguin, oozes, keel-hauling...it's been busy. Not complainin' or nothin', just curious."
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+5=18 ; d20+2=11 ; Thursday October 4th, 2018 1:43:56 PM
Haemir leaps in to help the ship get underway (Sailing:18) whilst Fand flies off scouting agphead (Perception:11). After a while he joins the others below deck for a drink.
"Close shave..."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Thursday October 4th, 2018 2:26:19 PM
Bigby is glad to have Haemir join for a drink. With his hairy face and well lets face it his hairy body he looks at Haemir and asks "what a shave?"
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 d20=5 ; Thursday October 4th, 2018 10:24:44 PM
"Excellent." Caelwyn breathes a sigh of relief as the ship makes good its escape. The thought of trying to cut his way through a swarm of those oozes had not been an appealing one. He offers a prayer of thanks to Domi for their narrow escape.
Caelwyn takes another quick look around to ensure that there is no other imminent danger to the ship. (Perception 5) He then goes to the forecastle and stands at the rail, watching the waves crashing asunder before the keep of the ship and the horizon eternally drawing nearer.
DM Tanner Thursday October 4th, 2018 11:57:59 PM
No other dangers to the ship appear on the horizon, and the red dot dwindles into nothingness as the winds carry you across the open waters.
The next several days pass in relative peace. No monsters, no punishments, no drama... nothing. What will you do to occupy your time?
ooc: Long stretches of ocean voyages were actually quite boring in real life. I don't want you to think that sailing in the Southern Continent is just a wild roller coaster!
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Friday October 5th, 2018 12:37:54 AM
Bigby says to Wolfgang, "let's be sailors Wolfie!" They go over to Haemir and ask to continue sailing lessons before they were interrupted the keelhauling and red blobs. "Teach us to be sailors?"
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+4=19 ; d20+5=14 ; d20+5=6 ; d20+5=23 ; d20+5=6 ; d20+5=24 ; Friday October 5th, 2018 4:04:19 AM
Haemir smiles at Bigby's question about shaving. "Some like to cut hair when it gets too long. Better that than to trip over it..."
Over the next few days Haemir refreshes his spell by meditating (Concentration:19) and after acquiring permission from the dwarves teaches anyone who wants to learn how to sail. Generally staying out of the way of the crew and joining them whenever they can help - to hoist sails etc.
As the days progress Haemir runs through all the names of the sails, masts, commands and what each means. Different knots and how/why they are used and how to climb the masts. How to store the ropes, the process of dropping the anchor and how to ensure the ship is facing the right direction when weighing the anchor (raising it), along with how the direction of the wind allows some obvious and some very advanced direction changes. One thing becomes apparent there is a lot to learn... (series of teaching rolls made ranging from 6 - 24) and he enjoys seeing everyone's progress.
(OOC I found a video that was made probably in the 70's that shows some of the basics and gives you an idea hiw sailing a ship like ours actually works): How to sail a three mast ship
Fand joins in and watches, comments, berates and compliments the students and probably teaches a few sea-worthy cusses in the process.
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Friday October 5th, 2018 10:17:46 AM
Sol spends the next few semi boring days, talking to the party, trying to get to know them better, and when they allow, write it in his book. He will also offer his assistance to anyone who asks, as long as it is based on his mental abilities.
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 d20=1 ; Friday October 5th, 2018 8:45:52 PM
Caelwyn spends his time keeping watch for danger, offering prayers to Domi, and talking to his companions and the crew. He does his best to learn something of sailing from Haemir, determined not to waste his time.
On an impulse, Caelwyn looks around one day to see if he can spot the dwarf who had been keelhauled for stealing. (Perception 1)
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 Friday October 5th, 2018 9:50:03 PM
'Lil keeps on learning how to sail. She spends her nights drinkin', and learning as many bawdy drinking songs as she's able from the sailors.
She checks on Scyner when she's able. She figured the healer would be back on her feet by this point.
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+2=18 ; Saturday October 6th, 2018 3:18:37 AM
Fand also takes to the air and scouts (Perception:18)
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Saturday October 6th, 2018 12:53:16 PM
Bigby works with Haemir on sailing lessons. "Tell me again about Fand. He...is Fand a he? Well seems special. You never finished your story in the giggling ghost. Tell me more about you two, if that's ok."
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 Sunday October 7th, 2018 4:59:03 AM
"Ah yes, I did promise to tell you... well Fand is technically a he and a she. Let me explain..." Finishing tying his knot he puts the rope down and looks out to sea where the Macaw is scouting. "The bird itself is a he. He really did join our ship as a mascot. But after disaster struck and I was hanging on to a lump of wood in amidst the storm I needed help. So... well... I um..." clearly struggling for words he eventually spits them out as he turns to face Bigby, "Wel it's like something helped me - it gave me the knowledge of how to summon a spirit. I summoned one in to him. Turns out the spirit was a 'her'... Fand in fact. She saved my life by going for help and bringing another ship to me."
He pauses a while as if remembering. "That's why Fand is not like normal familiars. I believe part of them comes from the essence of the Mage? None of Fand comes from me"
DM Tanner Sunday October 7th, 2018 11:58:15 PM
FRIDAY POST
The Nixie Queen continues to sail without complications, altercations, or consternations.
After three and a half days the crew is abuzz. The lookout in the crow's nest excitedly gestures and calls down. Ahead the coast curves. "The River Sargrass!" exclaims Askel. He points an eyeglass forward. "We will be able to leave open water and escape the dangers of the ocean." He lowers the eyeglass. "Signi! Have the men break out the oars."
The crew busies itself with lowering sails, breaking out long oars and fixing them in their sockets, and preparing to traverse the river.
"I must warn you, adventurers. Askel fixes you with a grave stare. "We are about to enter the lands of the Dre Moria elves. They are territorial, brutish, and xenophobic. We will try to avoid their notice. If we cannot, we can expect a rude welcoming, if not outright violence. They are not welcoming of outsiders, even those who are just passing through."
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 Monday October 8th, 2018 9:57:36 AM "..but we're so friendly." is all 'Lil can think to say. She didn't have much patience for xenophobes.
She stays on her guard, patrolling the perimeter of the ship with Ramona in hand.
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Monday October 8th, 2018 1:35:59 PM
Bigby listens to Signi talk about the dangers out there. Bigby thinks to himself, there's always danger out there, in here, even within myself. It's not an issue of avoiding it, well maybe sometimes...like that red blob...good thing we avoided that...but anyhow...it's more of an issue as to what we are made of when we are faced with the danger. Bigby asks Haemir, "what do you make of all this Dre Moria Elves stuff?"
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Monday October 8th, 2018 3:40:47 PM
Sol looks a little worried at the idea of being attacked yet again, as this has been the most dangerous journey he has ever been on.
"Could we not barter passage with the elves? Would they not accept some payment to allow us safe passage?"
DM Tanner Tuesday October 9th, 2018 12:00:16 AM
MONDAY POST... almost made it.
Askel shakes his head. "From what I gather from intelligence reports, the elves of Dre Moria care only for preserving their society. That means any and all outside influence is shunned. Forcefully. They accept no peddlers, diplomats, gleemen, sages, or explorers. There may be some among them more interest in self-enrichment than the rules of their government, but one has never been found. Believe me, if we could pay them off, we would have planned for it."
He points toward the rigging and siding, "I think you should take position in case we run into any of them. What would you like to do to prepare in case they find us?"
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 Tuesday October 9th, 2018 10:01:28 AM "How do they typically attack? Ranged weapons? Do they try to board vessels? If we knew that, we'd better be able to prepare."
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 Tuesday October 9th, 2018 3:12:17 PM
"Never heard of them Bigby..."
Fand lands nearby in the rigging for a while and preens whilst Haemir loads his xbow and waits to hear what the Dwarves know.
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Tuesday October 9th, 2018 4:42:46 PM
Sol nods at Lil's suggestion.
"Knowing more about their combat style would make a big difference and let us know how and what to prepare."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Tuesday October 9th, 2018 4:42:53 PM
Bigby's eyebrow raises at Haemir's response. "I suppose we will find out together." Bigby will gather up all of his seaweed and prepare to use for another entangle situation.
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 Tuesday October 9th, 2018 7:22:39 PM
Caelwyn frowns, thinking. "While we must be ready to defend ourselves, it would be best if we could try to resolve any potential conflict without conflict. Perhaps I could speak to them, try to convince them that our presence here will be to their benefit."
He turns to Askel. "Sir, what do these elves think of half-elves such as myself? Would they be willing to listen to me, or would even the sight of me be enough to provoke an attack?"
DM Tanner Tuesday October 9th, 2018 11:46:22 PM
Askel looks at Caelwyn with all seriousness. "They would kill you for speaking to them. If they even saw you, they would cut off your ears to make certain no one would ever look at you and see elven blood. I strongly suggest you wear a hat if you plan on trying diplomacy."
He turns to 'Lil, "They do not differ from other clans of elves when it comes to war -- archery, magic, and needle-like swords. They have swift river ships with flat bottoms, and small fortifications built on their decks. Like little wooden castles. I have heard they use a spellcaster to send a message spell with their demands, and turn your crew into pin cushions if you do not cooperate. They do not even bother to plunder a ship! They tow it to the ocean and set it aflame so the wreckage does not pollute their river."
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 Wednesday October 10th, 2018 12:12:15 PM
"Well, at least they try to talk first. That's a plus." She remembers the whole ordeal with the thief a few days ago. "We should pick a speaker before hand. I'm actually a pretty good talker; priests of Domi expect their own to represent them civilly. Not my ship, though. I'll defer to the Cap'n if he's got other plans.
"If we gotta attack, maybe we light their little wooden castle boats on fire? We got any oil to throw at'em? If we keep'em so they're only attacking from the shore, we got the whole ship as cover."
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Wednesday October 10th, 2018 1:30:41 PM
Sol listens to Lil
"I am capable of speaking, but perhaps not as well as yourself, I would prefer not to be the one that we pin our hopes on for a diplomatic solution."
He smiles self deprecatingly at this point.
"However if we are planning on moving through their territory would it not be wiser to try and avoid them altogether, is there anyway to make the ship difficult to see? Especially at night? As if we cause a scene immediately on appearing within their territory they will likely harass us until we leave, which through sheer attrition would mean we would probably not make it."
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 Wednesday October 10th, 2018 2:15:30 PM
"I'm more concerned about them setting fire to our ships. Anything we can do about that? It sound s like talking isn't going to happen. Xenophobic means ittarional hate... talk if you think it worth it Lil."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Wednesday October 10th, 2018 3:37:00 PM "fire to the ships. That's not good thing. But you gotta give it to the xenophobes, they know how take down those they hate."
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 Wednesday October 10th, 2018 7:30:19 PM
Caelwyn smiles grimly. "As I expected. I am a capable diplomat, but my half-blood status will certainly be enough to turn them against us. While I am willing to talk to them if disguised, it may be a greater risk than it is worth, should they discover I am trying to deceive them." He turns to his comrades. "Whatever you all think is best, my friends. Either way, we should prepare as best we can for a possible attack."
Caelwyn walks about, studying the ship. "As long as they don't have any siege equipment or fire that could threaten the ship, we should make them come to us. Then we can have the cover of the ship to protect us from their archers, and hopefully kill enough of them as they board that they will decide it is not worth attacking us."
He turns to Askel. "Any chance they will have siege equipment or the sort of fire that could honestly threaten the ship? Or perhaps a way of blockading the river? That could spell doom for all of us."
DM Tanner Wednesday October 10th, 2018 11:51:36 PM
ooc: So many questions!
Askel responds to all of your queries.
'Lil - "Yes, we have plenty of oil. Barrels of it, in fact. We had planned on using it for torches after we made landfall at the building site... but making it to the site is perhaps of more pressing concern." A quick inventory finds that there are 10 barrels on board with 30 gallons each. A bit unwieldy, but there are plenty of leather sacks on the ship as well.
Sol - "We can limit our sailing to night, if you wish. Elves may be able to see well in twilight, but dwarves can see in pitch blackness. I don't know about you humans, however."
Haemir - "We can deploy buckets of water, and have dedicated fire teams. The best protection would be to coat the deck in wax, but that would take days of preparation and we're in a bit of a hurry to get through their territory as quickly as possible."
Caelwyn - "Unlikely. Their hostility to outsiders works to our advantage on that point... Interacting with other races is seen as so odious, so repugnant, that scouting duty is seen as a punishment. The Dre Moria elves we are likely to encounter, on the edge of their territory, will be low on the social ladder. They will be relatively inexperienced and poorly equipped. But if they decide they don't like you and get away to warn their brothers... Well, at that point you had best wish your boat is faster than theirs."
In terms of concrete preparation, you have barrels of oil earmarked for your use. Anything else?
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 Thursday October 11th, 2018 11:24:53 AM
'Lil can't see in the dark, but she won't be the one steering the ship.
"If we can make it through their whole territory in one night, maybe it's best to try and slip past them. Is that even plausible?"
Either way, she'll fill about 5 leather bags with oil. She also takes 5 strips of whatever cheap cloth is available and soaks them in oil, which she uses to tie them up. She secures the bags to her belt when it's time.
"I'm thinkin' I can light the cloth on fire, then throw the bag. I didn't tie'em that tight, so they should open up when they splat against somethin'."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Thursday October 11th, 2018 11:38:27 AM
Bigby fills up a barrel with seaweed. And just listens to everyone else.
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Thursday October 11th, 2018 1:21:10 PM
Sol nods.
"Well I cannot see at night, since it is unlikely I will be required to do anything with regards to the ship on deck, perhaps that is not an issue. Though if the intention is to use bags of oil to light them on fire, perhaps if we only travel at night we could have a dwarf throw the bags of oil to illuminate the opposition allowing myself and others who cannot see at night a good chance of hitting them?"
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 Thursday October 11th, 2018 3:59:03 PM
"Once we have seen them I might be able to disguise myself as one of them and stand on point... maybe it will buy us some time...?
Travelling by night sounds best. Then if it comes to it we can light the way for those that need it...
Dedicated fire teams sounds sensible.
Any other ideas?"
DM Tanner Thursday October 11th, 2018 11:57:11 PM
'Lil prepares 5 bags of oil for rapid deployment and secures them to her belt. Signi offers to position a brazier of coals near the side railing so that they can be quickly lit.
Bigby fills a barrel with seaweed and places it on the main deck.
ooc: If there are any other concrete preparations, please let me know. We can also hand-wave your efforts and say they occurred in wibbly-wobbly time.
The Nixie Queen breaches the mouth of the River Sargrass. At this point, the river is a wide and shallow delta with numerous sandbars. The lookouts on the prow keep a sharp eye, and call out directions to the crew manning the oars. They are able to navigate without significant difficulty, with just one or two small bumps when the ship strays too close to a sandbar.
The ship travels upriver at a slow pace. Your boat is designed for ocean voyages, and the narrow keel does not make it easy to move against the current. After several hours, one of the lookouts in the rigging calls down. "Sails ahead! Sails ahead! Silver sails!"
Askel sighs deeply. "Silver sails! That sounds like the Dre Moria." He takes a look through his eyeglass and mumbles some calculations. "They're coming downstream. They will be within earshot in perhaps half an hour." He lowers the eyeglass. "Signi! Break out the crossbows and tower shields! I don't want us caught with out pants down."
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 Friday October 12th, 2018 10:06:02 AM
'Lil wonders out loud what the seaweed is for.
"I ain't too good with fighting at a distance, so aside from throwin' these oil bags, I'm gonna stay put and support against any boarders. You wants me to do the talkin'?" She cocks her head as she waits for a response from the Cap'n.
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: None Friday October 12th, 2018 1:11:48 PM
Sol looks unsure of this course of action, but doesn't say anything, this is not his speciality after all.
"Corbin, can you go and have a look and see if the ship is crewed by elves and report back?"
Sol shrugs before turning to the captain.
"If we can confirm it is the elves we can strike first if that is needed. I would rather not strike out at innocents by accident."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Friday October 12th, 2018 1:50:00 PM
Bigby says "just don't step next to the seaweed because I'll see if I can use that with an entangle spell. It may not work the way I want it too, but don't want you guys to get stuck in it also."
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 Friday October 12th, 2018 3:40:55 PM
'Lil punches Bigby in the arm playfully. "Check out the big brains on Wolfy here," she says with a smile. "Thinkin' like that's gonna make us heroes one day, Bibgy. Just you watch..."
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 Friday October 12th, 2018 4:19:19 PM
Haemir watches Lil and adopts the same idea making three oil bags. "If no one is using the second fishy-mans xbow I'll make use of it ..." (If Sycnir or one of the non-combatant/fire crew are happy reloading he'll switch between shows each round). Lastly he finds a place behind some shields and loads up the second xbow. "Stay close Fand..."
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 Friday October 12th, 2018 4:38:50 PM
Caelwyn follows suit, filling five bags with oil. He ensures his armor is fastened properly and his weapons are sharpened. He comes on deck fully equipped with his longsword and shield, bearing also his shortspear and one of the masterwork crossbows. His hood is pulled well over his head to hide any hint of his ears. "Well Askel", he says with a smile, "if I need to talk them, should I pretend to be fully human or fully elf?"
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 Saturday October 13th, 2018 2:11:20 AM
Haemir grabs his old xbow as his second weapon
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 d20=11 ; Sunday October 14th, 2018 4:32:43 PM
Bigby falls over from 'Lil's punch as he wasn't ready for it. And quickly gets back up as though he expected that and he didn't do anything embarrassing like fall over from a punch in the arm. (bluff: 11). Bigby adds, "heh thanks."
DM Tanner Sunday October 14th, 2018 11:57:57 PM
FRIDAY POST
Askel nods to 'Lil. "By all means. Dwarves are not reknowned for their diplomacy -- they are reknowned for their common sense. Which is why I leave the task to you."
Corbin the Crow takes off and flies toward the ship in the distance. Askel is somewhat worried. "If you think that is prudent... ambushing them might be the best option. We would not want them warning others."
Bigby explains that his barrel of seaweed is for entangle spells. 'Lil compliments his strategic thinking.
Haemir prepared his own oil bags, and readies a crossbow behind some shields (ooc: You gain half cover).
Caelwyn prepares five bags of oil, readies his armor, and stands ready for battle.
---
Corbin the Crow flies toward the ship with the silver sails. He barely closes two-thirds of the gap before a volley of arrows erupts from the other ship. The bird wheels in the air, frantically flying back toward the Nixie Queen. A few stray arrows follow, but fall short. Corbing makes it back, shaking badly while his tiny chest heaves. "Caw! Caw! Elves! Elves! Caw!"
Askel stamps his foot in frustration. "That's it, then. They saw the birdie take flight from our ship, and knew he was scouting. We had best be prepared for a sour welcoming."
ooc: Any other last minute preparations? You likely have about 5 minutes before their ship comes alongside yours.
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 Monday October 15th, 2018 1:00:41 PM
"Is there some kinda flag you can fly that means, 'Hey, we wanna talk' or something? I don't wanna stand up and wave my arms or nothin' when it looks like they shoot first and talk second."
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Monday October 15th, 2018 1:45:38 PM
Sol will look after Corbin, helping the Raven to relax a bit after his ordeal, he will also take this opportunity to cast Mage Armour on himself.
"It helps to be prepared. I am ready to begin using my spells at your discretion Captain. I have cantrips available, and a Magic Missile and Summon Monster available."
He smiles at Lil.
"Good luck friend, I will stand with you if you feel it will help."
DM Tanner -- Sorry, he's a raven. Not a crow. ;)
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 d20+2=4 ; Monday October 15th, 2018 7:45:36 PM
"I don't suppose there is some kind of tax we could pay in order to obtain safe passage?" Caelwyn wonders aloud. "Although given what you have told us already, I don't think that will be an option...if negotiations fail, we should make them attack us, we have the advantage here."
He looks around to ensure no other enemies are closing in on them unnoticed (Perception - 4). "If we must fight them, Askel, and we manage to escape, will they pursue us as we depart their territory? Should we kill all of them to ensure that they don't call for reinforcements and run us down?"
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 Monday October 15th, 2018 8:09:59 PM
"I don't think they're interested in talking. I'm also not interested in killing all of them either. Is everyone ready..." He pats his civilian loader on the shoulder. "[b]Stay crouched behind the shield[b]"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Monday October 15th, 2018 8:47:47 PM
Bigby and Wolfgang will try to take cover behind something (not the barrels filled with oil or seaweed) and take total defensive stance just in case arrows come flying. "Watch for arrows Bigby yells"
DM Tanner Monday October 15th, 2018 11:56:13 PM
A MAP is available. Caelwyn is dark blue (you need character art!). Sol is green (you need character art!). Dwarf sailors are light blue and each have a tower shield. Dre Moria sailors are red. Dre Moria captain is maroon.
Tense minutes are spent waiting, until a slim, sleek, stream-lined elven vessel comes within view. It's hull is polished birth almost white in color, while its sails are ivory interwoven with threads of silver. The prow of the ship bears the insignia, Assernerairan.
Elven Highlight to display spoiler: {The ship's name means "River-Swift-Spear" in Common.}
A complement of Dre Moria elves stand on the deck. While they possess the typical lithe frames and angular features found in most elves, their dress is decidedly different from what you have seen before. All of them wear half-masks covering their faces from their hairline to their cheeks. Each mask is decorated or carved in a unique pattern. All of them have gray hair like the color of steel. Their clothes are dark and drab, mostly in black, gray, or dark blues and greens. One among them stands imperiously, holding a staff in one hand. His mask is blood red. The others stand ready with spears and bows.
Their ship pulls alongside and comes to a rest. The tall Dre Moria elf clears his throat and calls out. "Le yiNkosi iKororir, oyinhloko yale nqanawa. Usemasimini aseDre Moria, unobungozi obubi. Yichaze injongo yakho. Ngoku."
Elven Highlight to display spoiler: {"This one is Lord Quoronir, master of this vessel. You are in the lands of the Dre Moria, you ill-bred profligates. State your purpose. Now."}
Askel sighs and mutters. "Of course... why would xenophobic elves speak anything but Elven...?"
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 Tuesday October 16th, 2018 5:10:16 AM
"Wow, they're actually talking..." he says quietly to himself. "I know some of you speak Elven but for those that don't he says Lord Quoronir is the master of their vessel and that we are in the lands of the Dre Moria, and he wants us to state our purpose...." he bites his lip for a second and then adds, "he um, well, he commented on our breeding and wasn't very polite but that was to be expected".
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 d20+8=13 ; Tuesday October 16th, 2018 11:02:46 AM
'Lil don't speak nothin' but common, so she turns to Haemir. "Ok buddy, I talk, you translate." She talks quietly and ducks down behind the ship's railing. She doesn't want the elves to know the words are hers.
She clears her throat. "Lord Quoronir, we seek only to leave your lands as soon as possible. Were there any other way for our vessel to reach its destination without intruding on your lands, we would have taken it. We recognize your sovereignty, and would have requested passage before hand had we the knowledge of how to do so. We humbly request that we be allowed to proceed, and assure you we will make all haste to exit your lands."
Diplomacy: 13
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Tuesday October 16th, 2018 1:28:19 PM
Sol listens to the Elven, even giving a small chuckle at Haemir's, err... diplomatic translation. He however allows Haemir to continue to translate, but keeps his eye on the Captain of both vessels to see if he can judge when he should begin using his spells.
He does however speak to others in his merry band, and some of the sailors of the dwarven ship who may be a bit too tense for comfort.
"Perhaps, friends, we should wait to see if this diplomatic solution bears fruit before attacking."
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Tuesday October 16th, 2018 4:51:44 PM
Bigby makes a perception check to see if there's anything on their ship that can be used to our advantage, such as flammable oil, barrels of seaweed because you never know).
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+2=12 ; d20+1=11 ; d20+5=8 ; Tuesday October 16th, 2018 7:47:09 PM
Sat down Haemir mutters quietly (casts Detect Magic) & then stands up crouching so only his head shows (using the shield as cover) and translates (am I assisting Lil? Diplomacy:12), whilst concentrating. He scans the ship for anything interesting (weak points etc. Perception:11) & tries to think of some legitimate reasons as to why they can't turn back, the tide etc. But doesn't come up with anything he can blag (Profession: Sailing:8).
As soon as he finishes speaking he ducks back down & grabs the heavy xbow.
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 Tuesday October 16th, 2018 8:30:19 PM
Caelwyn listens to the exchange, sitting with his back to the side of the ship. He ensures his crossbow is loaded and ready.
DM Tanner Tuesday October 16th, 2018 11:56:14 PM
Between 'Lil and Haemir, the elven captain appears somewhat mollified (ooc: nice assist, the DC was 15!). His voice and body language now appear bored and condescending rather than challenging.
Elven -- Highlight to display spoiler: {"State your home port, destination, cargo, and purpose. Quickly. You are keeping this one from his nap time, which is far more important than anything you are doing."}
Those who survey the other ship see that a brazier of burning coals sits near their main mast. The archers nearby have their arrowheads wrapped in cloth...
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Wednesday October 17th, 2018 9:07:51 AM
Sol takes a deep breath, happy that their tone and posture has changed.
He moves up and down the ship, glancing at the Elven one, and notcing the enemy arrows, gets set back on edge.
"It seems they are willing to at least listen."
He then stands next to the captain, waiting to see what orders come next.
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 Wednesday October 17th, 2018 12:02:03 PM
Back against the shield/deck Haemir relaxes a bit and noticing his knuckles are white from gripping the xbow. Lowering his voice he says: "It seems to have done some good, he wants to know where our home port was and what our destination, cargo, and purpose are".
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 d20+8=15 ; Wednesday October 17th, 2018 8:16:04 PM
'Lil takes a breath. They were here to colonize a nearby wilderness. That probably wouldn't play well. She wracks her brain, thinking of a way to tell the truth without getting them killed.
"We're an exploratory vessel. We carry able-bodied men and women, plus a modicum of supplies to ensure we can set up a base camp at our destination. Which, I assure you, is several miles outside of your sovereign lands."
Diplomacy 15
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+2=9 ; d20+2=9 ; Wednesday October 17th, 2018 10:34:58 PM
Haemir was mulling over what not to say and almost breathed a sigh of relief when Lil decided to omit certain elements - As he translates he tries to emphasise that the distance is not just miles but well beyond their borders (Diplomacy assist:9 - ignore the second roll hit the button twice). But then realises he has no idea where their border ends exactly, so he chooses a word in Elvish that means to distant horizons - then he remembers the other ships, hmmm do we tell them there are more ships he ponders...
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 Wednesday October 17th, 2018 11:29:25 PM
So far so good, Caelwyn thinks. They haven't begun shooting at us, at least.
He notes the fire arrows which the elves seem ready to use. If they attempt to use them, perhaps our best bet is to attack their ship and try to board...we might need another vessel if they set fire to the Nixie Queen...
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Wednesday October 17th, 2018 11:34:54 PM
Bigby thinks if only he had memorized that create water spell to cast on the coals on the other boat if and when needed.
DM Tanner Wednesday October 17th, 2018 11:41:51 PM
Lord Quoronir narrows his eyes. He appears miffed.
Elven -- Highlight to display spoiler: {"Are you deaf? State your home port and destination! This one will not have vagrants and tramps wandering vaguely near lands of the Dre Moria. You will say exactly how far, and this one will inform you if it is acceptable!"}
The elven captain snaps his fingers, and his sailors holds their arrows as close to the fire as possible without setting then alight. They do not appear to be chomping at the bit for a fight, but are not interested in anything less than complete compliance.
Askel winces. "It was going well! Get us back on track!"
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Thursday October 18th, 2018 3:50:31 AM
Bigby translates, "yeah he's pretty pissed. He wants to know our home port and destination. Exactly how far away it is."
ooc: it puts the lotion on the skin. Third person always reminds me of that.
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 Thursday October 18th, 2018 10:40:37 AM
'Lil chides herself. Her diplomacy teachers woulda smacked her knuckles silly had they seen her mishap.
"Apologies. We hail from Hook City, en route to the rediscovered Sargrass."
She decides its best to keep it short. If she knows how far that is, she'll say so, otherwise she'll whisper harshly to Askel to provide an answer.
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 d20+2=14 ; d20+2=15 ; Thursday October 18th, 2018 10:49:30 AM
Haemir translates gritting his teeth for the first two words... "My apologies", (bluff:14) but tries to hide it. More angry with himself for not pointing out what was amiss in their answer. He tells the group what he intends saying before he says it - and will adjust anything accordingly. "Our home port was Hook City although most of us are from behind there. We cannot say exactly where our destination is as stated we are explorers and also unaware where your borders are. However if you would be so gracious to inform us - we will ensure we pass through your land without stopping. Only a fool would incur your wrath Lord Quoronir. It is our intent to pass through your lands and also to not cause you any problems. Does this meet with your approval?" (Diplomacy:15 - plus any assists before translation).
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Thursday October 18th, 2018 4:41:30 PM
Sol listens to the words being exchanged, and quickly asks the Captain if they have a name for the place they're heading, more specifically than "The Sargrass".
He whispers to Haemir.
"I do not think they will accept that, they seem to adamantly want to know where we are going."
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 Thursday October 18th, 2018 5:39:02 PM
Haemir will armed what he's saying if somineone adds to it...
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Thursday October 18th, 2018 7:41:59 PM
Bigby looks to the captain and suggests softly, "Perhaps the captain knows exactly where we are going?"
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 Thursday October 18th, 2018 10:38:36 PM
Caelwyn feels himself beginning to tense up as he listens to the conversation, and his hands tighten around his crossbow. "They want to know exactly where we are going...if we cannot give them a plausible destination, I feel certain they will attack" he whispers to his companions. "Captain, what lies beyond our destination that we might travel to? We need a feasible alibi"
DM Tanner Friday October 19th, 2018 12:11:52 AM
THURSDAY POST (just a few minutes late!)
Lord Quoronir's mood is mercurial indeed, and just as quickly as he is angered he is again bored and dismissive.
Elven -- Highlight to display spoiler: {"Ewww... the Sargrass. This one supposes it has to be better than that latrine you call Hook City."}
He makes a lazy wave toward the archers, and the sailors lower their bows.
Elven -- Highlight to display spoiler: {"The Sargrass is far outside of Dre Moria lands. You would do well to stay there. If you happen to encounter any lands that look fair and bright... it is probably ours."}
He snaps his fingers toward a young elf wearing robes. The young elf jumps, quickly reaching into a pocket and retrieving a small marble. He whispers a brief incantation, causing the marble to glow, before he takes a small slingshot from his sleeve and fires the marble at the Nixie Queen!
It bounces harmlessly off the hull. A small glowing rune appears, then fades. (ooc: arcane mark)
Elven -- Highlight to display spoiler: {"Your ship is marked for future patrols."} Lord Quoronir waves down the river. Elven -- Highlight to display spoiler: {"Tell them what you told this one. This one suggests you do not make them wait. Not all are as patient as this one."}
The Dre Moria vessel begins to slowly turn around and the sailors on board go about their duties.
Askel heaves a heavy sigh. "By the golden scales of Ffloy! That was a close one!" The dwarven crew are, likewise, in various stages of relief.
ooc: Congratulations! You have successfully resolved the encounter. Every party member receives 250xp!
BigbyWolf ( Michael) 10/10 HP - AC/T/FF: 16 /13 /14 - CMD 13 -Animal Companion: HP: 19/19 -AC 17 Friday October 19th, 2018 1:21:54 PM "He said our ship is marked for future patrols. And something colorful about the Sargrass."
ELIJAH "SOL" SOLOMON (DANIEL) HP: 6 AC/T/FF:11/11/10 Active Spells: Mage Armour Friday October 19th, 2018 5:07:18 PM
Sol lets out the breath he hadn't realised he was holding.
"That was certainly a close one. At least we have our answers prepared for next time, should we run across any other patrols."
'Lil - (Carl) - 13/13 HP - AC 17/11/16 - CMD 13 Friday October 19th, 2018 5:10:37 PM
"Welp, that coulda been a lot worse, eh?" 'Lil stands from her place behind the railing.
Haemir - (Rich) HP:8/8 - AC/T/FF:15/13/12 - COMPANION: HP:18/18 AC:17 Friday October 19th, 2018 6:23:27 PM
Haemir breathes a sigh of relief... "I think we should prepare a scroll or something and I'll get Fand to take it back down stream...maybe we can let any of our other ships know what to do... Fand can either deliver it or leave it hanging nearby the river entrance maybe?"
Caelwyn Alterius - (Casey) - 13/13 HP - AC 19/10/19 - CMD 14 Friday October 19th, 2018 7:04:24 PM
Caelwyn smiles, glad to have avoided unnecessary conflict. "I agree with that idea, Haemir, we need to alert the other ships. But we can't leave it just hanging there - if the Dre Moria find it, they might realize we have not been entirely honest with them, and it might go far worse for our comrades (or for us, if they catch us again...)"
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