Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T14 F15, CMD 12, HP 41/41 Tuesday January 31st, 2023 6:40:54 PM
Snark will supplement Benni's storytelling by creating a Silent Image of a boggard, though it might look just a little more fearsome than the ones we met. He'll add a Ghost Sound of croaking to the mix.
Corym Morhice (Ben V) AC20 T15 F16 CMD20, HP 32/32 Tuesday January 31st, 2023 7:07:17 PM
(Corym would like a Blowdart and either 5 or 10 darts, depending on what Snark is willing to part with.)
Corym partakes in the partying as well, chiming in on the rare occasion somebody talks to him. The quiet figure in the corner isn't the most interacted with in a time of festivity. He's obviously relieved at the result of the expedition, relaxed and enjoying himself.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T14 F15, CMD 12, HP 41/41 Tuesday January 31st, 2023 7:41:38 PM
Snark is happy to work with Corym on the loot. "No problem Corym, so long as you understand yer taking your share in items instead of gold."
(Turns out, the value of one blowgun and 10 darts is about the amount of gold that would have been Corym's share.)
Saniainen Noapte (Holly) AC 19, HP 20/20 Tuesday January 31st, 2023 9:29:39 PM
Sani observes the revelry and loot division. Her interest is piqued and she decides to introduce herself, with drinks. She gestures to a server and says "Send over another of whatever that bunch is drinking."
Then, she approaches the heroes. "Whoa!" she says to Snark, "The croaking effect is top-notch. Really brings it to life." Next she nods at Corym. "Oooh, a blowdart! I've never seen anyone use one of those. What's the range? Oh hi. I'm Sani, by the way. Ah! I took the liberty of buying you another round in celebration. Great what you did for those kids."
DM Carl Tuesday January 31st, 2023 9:52:08 PM
It seemed easy enough: escort the Woad Beer to Hook City along with Captain Rio. Heranmar gets paid, Snark gets to visit a tree wizard, and our heroes get some fresh air on the open sea. Alas, kids will be kids.
...but now that's all behind us, which is great news since the year's brewing is complete and ready to ship out! Poor Ralphus has been waiting since the dark hours for our heroes to wake up, but he was wanted to be sure everyone was rested. Luckily he poured all that energy into breakfast! The scents of sausage, bacon, and biscuits greet everyone as they wake, and a full spread is awaiting them. It seems that Captain Rio and her officers were the first to arrive and are plating up, but there is plenty for everyone. Her officers seem more interested in food than our heroes, but Rio beams a smile when they enter.
"Ah, here be ma' knights in shining armor! Last chance for decent eats, heroes. Best be making it count." A large, surly fellow glares daggers at Rio, but keeps his mouth shut.
Ralphus practically bursts with energy as he gets ready to shove food at the party. Two new faces are already at the table with their plates. They don't look like sailors. Of course, would you know a minotaur sailor if you saw one? Rio speaks up when she notices anyone looking. "Two new faces, yes? Don't you worry, I'ma vouching for them. Can't be too careful on the seas these days!"
"Or any day for that matter," opines an older man among Rio's crew. He wears an honest to goodness eye patch, but a quick check shows he has neither a peg leg, nor a hook.
OOC: Sani and Tykeas, welcome to Heranmar. You've had a chance to observe over the last few days, maybe even made introductions, but there's been a call to adventure and you've been invited!
"Listen!" says Rio suddenly, causing a hush to fall. In the quiet, one can hear light rain. "The skies will be dry before noon, and that's when we'll be departing. If you have business in town, best be getting it done." She sits to eat, approachable if there are questions, but all too happy for a moment's peace before the voyage.
***
It's been a long time since this trip was announced, at least in real world time. So here's a quick refresher: every year a shipment of Woad Beer is sent to Hook City. The proceeds are used to fund the festival, pay for the town's docks and security, and are the primary source of the income afforded to local government officials. It is vital for the health of the community!
It is far faster to reach Hook City by land, but 100 heavy barrels of beer are best carried by sea. Hence, Captain Rio and her vessel the Sea Witch have been hired to deliver it. Our heroes are along for martial support, and will also be responsible for securing payment upon arrival in Hook City.
Anyone doing any shopping should feel free to finish it up on their schedule. We won't be jumping into combat right away.
Tykeas hp 39/39 AC20/F16/T14 CMB/CMD 14/14 Tuesday January 31st, 2023 11:00:17 PM
Tykeas piles his plate full of meat. Looks around until he finds a "maid" and asks...."Got any wine? A meal like this is best complimented by a bottle of sharp wine. " .... Not really waiting to see if she takes the hint, he turns to the captain and asks...."How long you expect the journey to be?" then glancing at the other peeps in the room he says, "You may call me Tykeas. How will you prefer to be addressed?"
“Benni” AC 22/12/18. CMD16. HP 24 24 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday February 1st, 2023 1:09:09 AM
Onesimos comes to break the night’s fast, and smiles at Ralphus. ”Love of friends, community, and working your gifts all at once. I hope you know how special you are in the hearts and stomachs of all gathered!”
The elf gets a modest plate to start the day, and sits in between Tykeas and Sani to get to know them better as they banter with Captain Rio and her crew.
The elfin cleric’s pale and narrow face is framed by long brown hair untidily bound with a fragile-appearing diadem. He is in simple clothes with elaborate embroidery and counter-stitching in a wild flower motif, but most is covered by his armor and a sleeveless calf-length coat. ”Since we are together in our temporary time in the Wold, I would be pleased for you to call me ‘Benni’, as do the other Luck Makers. In combat, my main strength is in protection and defensive spells: do not look for me to magically heal every hurt.”
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 47/47 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 39/48AC 18/18/15 Wednesday February 1st, 2023 8:05:49 AM
Teddy and Gore'Thum introduce themselves to the newcomers. Teddy is a small bear person with soft brown fur and a timid and uncertain nature. Gore'Thum is a giant frog - a little smaller then a dwarf! - with brown pebbled skin and a white underbelly. Gruff and blunt, he seems to be the one to take the lead out of the pair most of the time and Teddy seems to look up to him as a mentor, which is odd because the frog doesn't seem to be all that intelligent.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T14 F15, CMD 12, HP 41/41 Wednesday February 1st, 2023 12:48:26 PM
Snark Riverstone has tan skin and pale blue hair and beard. He's dressed in a green robe that comes to about his knees with brown breeches beneath. Slung across his back is a short staff with a polished pale blue stone atop it.
The little gnome trots up to the food, and at just over 3 feet tall he has to reach for things. He gets a nice plate of sausage, bacon, and biscuits, but manages to drag his sleeve in the gravy in the process.
He nods at Rio as he goes past the captain, and he mutters a tune he once heard from a bard, "Her name is Rio and she dances on the sand..."
He goes and sits by these new folks that will be on our voyage. As he does so, he casts a little spell to clean the gravy from his sleeve.
"So, I dunno about you two, but I sure am looking forward to getting back on a ship. I gotta go see a fella about a tree near Hook City, so this ship guarding thing with my friends works out. My name's Snark Riverstone, and I'm a wizard."
To Sani he says, "Hey, thanks for them drinks the other night. Ooo, I see you got a bat. Me too!" The little gnome pulls out a small, brown bat from his pocket. "Her name is Luna. Maybe she and your bat could be friends. 'Course, bein' a familar, she's not exactly a real bat, but she's still my pal. So what's your deal - what do you do that you'll be guarding the ship with us. And how'd you come to be here in Heranmar?"
Even sitting, the minotaur towers over the little wizard. "Pleased to meet you Tykeas. Yer a big one, you are. So, rule number one is don't step on the gnome. How'd you come to be here today, you from around here? Looks like yer an archer with all them bows and arrows and stuff. Corym here's an archer too, among other things. You two should talk.
"You met Benni. He just loves meeting new people. You shoulda seen him charge after them kids yesterday. And you met our frog Gore'Thum and his pet teddy bear. Ol' Gore'Thum's not as grouchy as he likes to seem. Teddy's great, he likes healing people. Over there's Isaac, he puts the pal in paladin and he's great in a fight.
Gesturing to Sani and Tykeas, he adds, "So, what's the deal with you two - are you a couple?"
Corym Morhice (Ben V) AC20 T15 F16 CMD20, HP 32/32 Wednesday February 1st, 2023 7:42:22 PM
Corym smiles when approached by Sani. "Not quite sure myself, if I'm being honest."
He grabs a small breakfast before sitting down. "You can call me Corym. Nice to meet you Tykeas." Like usual, he allows the conversation to flow around him, just absorbing. When Snark brings up his archery, he smiles at the two conversating "I'd be enthused to have a conversation about archery. So much to discuss."
DM Carl Wednesday February 1st, 2023 10:27:24 PM
Tykeas soon discovers that it's just Ralphus helping dish up, but that it's mostly self serve. There is absolutely wine to be had if that's what he's thirsty for.
In fact, Ralphus is already joining him. He raises a toast with what smells like cider at Benni's words. The elf introduces himself to the newcomers, ensuring they know he is not there to kiss boo boos and make them all better.
Gore'Thum navigates the interior remarkably well for a giant frog, though Teddy will likely have to dish him up a plate. Most wouldn't want to follow a frog and his tongue at a buffet.
Snark chats up a storm. Seems he's excited about getting out of here. He wonders is the human and minotaur are dating. That is not, contrary to popular demand, where beastfolk come from.
Corym soon discovers that he has a fellow archer in his midst. One with a sling even! How exotic!
Captain Rio takes a moment to introduce her senior crew. "The pointy fellow there be my first mate, Hook." It's unclear if "pointy" refers to his elven ears, or the hook he has for a left hand. He's not very built, but he's the epitome of grace. He even eats with lithe, fluid movements! His skin is very dark for an elf (well, unless he's a secret drow). It's probably from the sun (he's totally not a drow*).
"Good to have some help on this trip. Pirates in this area are getting less and less likely to just ask politely for treasure like they used to." His voice is surprisingly melodious for a sailor.
Rio continues. "Patch there does...Patch, what is it you do again?"
"Paperwork, Captain. I do paperwork. Someone's got to make sure we've got enough food and water..." He must be the quartermaster. It appears the naming conventions among Rio's crew are pretty standard, as Patch indeed does appear to be missing an eye. The human's about as well worn as Hook, but much more heavily built.
"And Happy here cooks our food." The bald, surly looking man glowers at Rio, who stares him back down. "I'll not be callin' ya Scab! Ain't nobody want to eat food cooked by a 'Scab'."
Scab just grumbles before he gets back to eating. The man just exudes unpleasantness.
Outside is a cacophony of noises, including the sounds of many wheelbarrows moving back and forth. Loading up 100 barrels of alcohol is hard work, after all, and there are only so many in town who can handle that sort of thing. Plates start to empty as bellies fill.
*No really, he's just an elf.
“Benni” AC 22/12/18. CMD16. HP 24 24 Onesimos (SteveK) Thursday February 2nd, 2023 12:52:48 AM
Onesimos gives pleasantries to Captain Rio, Hook, Patch, and Happy. He makes an inquiry on coordinating defenses against any pirate or monster attack. ”Are your sailors part of the defense, or is it their job to stay out of the way for any fight? I would prefer to work with any of your established procedures, Captain.”
The elf is no kind of sailor, but has endured voyages before, he explains to Sani and Tyk. ”I am from the Northern Continent, Amberdale in New Elenna. I was young in the Year of Ascension, maybe 120 years ago, when Marteus killed all the gods but was foiled by cunning Gargul. It was the moment Flower ascended to become a god, and I became one of her first acolytes. When ready, the Temple sent me on the very long voyage to the Southern Continent. It seems most gods are not trusted here, so my lifelong duty is to show differently.”
Benni gratefully takes his share and uses the morning to shop at the Catacombs. He’s got funds burning a hole in his pocket!
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 47/47 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 39/48AC 18/18/15 Thursday February 2nd, 2023 8:08:36 AM
Teddy is intimidated by all the new people and sort of slumps in his chair as he's eating. Gore'Thum would have gotten help getting a plate and is happily munching completely unperturbed.
Tykeas hp 39/39 AC20/F16/T14 CMB/CMD 14/14 Thursday February 2nd, 2023 8:40:23 AM
Tykeas (teek eye as) stands slowly but very smoothly. His almost 9 ft height seems to dwarf most if not all of the others in the room. He reaches up and hits the "cup" on his broken horn and whispers a quick word or two. Those who hear recognize it as a saying of the towns folk to ward away bad luck. He heads back to the "buffet" for a second helping, making sure that his crossbow, swinging slightly from his hip, doesn't disturb anyone else's breakfast. "So, Captain Hook or whatever your name is, will you be replenishing any ammo used? Or will I need to pick some or make some extra "stones" before we leave? As he waits an answer to his 2 questions he heaps more meat on his plate and then heads back to his place by the miniscule gnome, Snark.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 62/62 AC24/ T13 / FF 20 Thursday February 2nd, 2023 6:31:07 PM
Isaac takes a swig of juice he was drinking he had been a bit to focused on the food. As Snark introduce him he looks up and hastily composed him self. Running a hand through his dirty blonde hair in a attempt to make it behave. "Sorry I didn't introduce my self right at the start. I'm Isaac" Isaac brushes any crumbs off his dark blue linen shirt and stands up. Besides the blue shirt he's dressed in a dark linen pants with thick leather boots. Over the shirt is a chainmail armor. He offers a handshake to both Tykeas and Sani. "My specialty is fighting close up but I can patch people up in a pinch. If you want to talk you'll have my full attention."
Corym Morhice (Ben V) AC20 T15 F16 CMD20, HP 32/32 Thursday February 2nd, 2023 8:28:29 PM "it's a wonderful place. Hook City, that is. I got up to some shenanigans there. I wonder if that warrant's still out.." Corym says to nobody in particular, almost half in thought. He spends some time waxing his bowstring (no, not a euphemism) before settling down. He doesn't have much he wants to buy at the moment, so he wishes Benni good luck and good deals.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T14 F15, CMD 12, HP 41/41 Thursday February 2nd, 2023 10:18:09 PM
Snark hopes to prepare some things before the sea voyage, and hopes the Luck Makers will have a few days off between assignments.
"Cap'n Rio, beggin yer pardon maam, but when do we ship out? I got a couple things to do first if I can. Also, do you know how many days we'll be at sea? Maybe I can get my stuff done on our trip?"
He whispers to Corym, "Don't worry, I got yer back. But what'd you do in Hook City? I got a grouchy dwarven wizard there I'd like to avoid myself. I may have borrowed a few things of his when I left. Nothing I wasn't owed you understand, but I'm not sure he sees it that way."
DM Carl Thursday February 2nd, 2023 10:49:05 PM Benni asks if Rio's crew fight or stay out of the way.
"Ain't no place on ma'ship for folks who aren't willing to defend their home, Benni. I expect everyone who calls themselves one'a my sailors to fight."
He chats about backstories with the newcomers.
Teddy grapples with social anxiety.
Tykeas wards off indigestion before getting seconds, then asks about ammo. The elf gives him a look that's somewhere between pity and incredulity.
"Sir, I'd ask you show Captain Rio her due respect. You may call me First Mate Hook if you want to address me by title. To answer your question, no. We are providing transport to yourselves and the town's cargo. Your gear is your own concern."
Isaac snaps out of his technical difficulties and introduces himself.
Corym reminisces, then gives his DM a plot hook. Thank you for that...
Snark asks about timeframes*.
"We ship out when the rain stops. Should be close to midday. Journey should take about 2-3 weeks."
Breakfast ends soon enough and folks get back to work. Many of our heroes have coin to spend, so they rush off to do so before the trip.
The town bustles with energy. Every able-bodied man and woman help load the year's supply of beer to the docks. The Sea Witch's crew loads them aboard, as only crew and approved passengers are allowed past the docks. You are all free to board when you'd like. You'll share a communal berth with each other located near the captain's quarters. You'll find adequate space for your belongings. It looks like the sleeping arrangements have been tailored for you, consisting of seven hammocks (each stacked 2 high) and a large minotaur-sized straw mattress. The odd hammock is strung nearby a large circle of straw covered with a blanket. It is roughly giant frog-sized.
Outside on the docks, Rio and her officers are in conversation with an unidentified man. Things look tense.
*Edit: Looks like you posted while I was posting. Also, a week in the Wold is 5 days.
“Benni” AC 22/12/18. CMD16. HP 24 24 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+6=15 ; Friday February 3rd, 2023 1:41:02 AM
Onesimos comes back with a new cloak and polish for his breastplate that provides a better defense. He has already paid his scot with Ralphus and emptied his room, and had a time to converse with the two clerics, Reshakka and Roland, who keep the Sanctuary of the Sea: giving and receiving blessings of safe home and passage.
When ready, he walks with the team to the docks and stows his stuff, taking an upper hammock. After that, he keeps out of the way, figuring Captain Rio wouldn’t want a novice messing things up on her boat. He takes a position near the bow and tries to overhear the conversation on the docks… ……
Perception. 15
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 47/47 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 39/48AC 18/18/15 Friday February 3rd, 2023 8:07:54 AM
Teddy and Gore'Thum go ahead and explore the ship and get used to the place they will be spending weeks in. Gore'Thum approves of his bed.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T14 F15, CMD 12, HP 41/41 Friday February 3rd, 2023 8:26:16 PM
Snark lays in some scroll making supplies and materials for making magic items while on the ship. He also picks up some cheese, cured sausage, and nuts and dried fruit as available. Not for food so much as for snacks on the trip. Mmmm - snacks.
The little gnome considers himself part of the crew as he walks to get on the ship, hoping to at least get a bunk he can reach. So as he comes across Captain Rio and her men in a tense conversation with someone, he walks up boldly so as to side with the good Captain.
He puts his hands on his hips and glares up at this unidentified man.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 62/62 AC24/ T13 / FF 20 d20+6=24 ; Friday February 3rd, 2023 9:31:13 PM
Isaac is helping where he can. When he notices the tense stand off with Rio and the strange man, Isaac comes over "Captain is something wrong?" Isaac looked over at the man trying to guage his intent. Sense motive:24
Tykeas hp 39/39 AC20/F16/T14 CMB/CMD 14/14 Friday February 3rd, 2023 10:37:35 PM
Tykeas meanders to the ship and then looks over his "bed." Not very satisfied with the accomadations, he shrugsThat's what you get when your among the smaller folk. Returning on deck, he walks over to various positions around the deck, crouching and then lunging up and forward. Seeing that it is well made and can holdhis massive weight, he strolls from the deck toward the captain.
Corym Morhice (Ben V) AC20 T15 F16 CMD20, HP 32/32 Friday February 3rd, 2023 11:26:53 PM
Corym replies quickly to Snark. "Oh you know, just a bit of stealing, a bit of cheating, a bit of insurance fraud. A little bit of everything. Don't play cards with those guys."
Corym takes a bottom bunk and sets his things down before noticing the commotion and walking back down to the captain. "Everything alright?
DM Carl Saturday February 4th, 2023 12:20:52 PM Benni comes back with new toys. Doing good and helping others are great, but that new breastplate smell? That's what it's all about. He tries (and succeeds!) to overhear the conversation, assumedly without being seen. OOC: Conversation is below.
Teddy and his friend find their new digs acceptable. It's not every ship that would know not to keep him in a pen.
Snark picks up snacks for the trip. Maybe Scab the Cook didn't fill him with positive vibes, or maybe the little guy likes snacks. He provides Captain Rio with some extra intimidation.
Isaac lends a helping hand, including making sure Captain Rio's not in trouble. It should be noted that Rio looks like she could absolutely trounce the strange man. She doesn't appear to be in danger, so much as annoyed and/or amused by the stranger.
Tykeas isn't a fan of his straw bed. There's time to improve his comfort before they leave if he has any ideas. The room isn't long enough to hang a large-sized hammock, but the taur probably has some experience making himself comfortable in a human-sized world.
He then goes on to stress test the ship. He finds it to be truely well-built. The boards don't even creak under his weight. It's also obviously very well cared for. Decks are swabbed, barnacles are scrapped, brass is polished, and even the kitchen is nice and shiny clean.
Corym continues to add to his Hook City criminal record.
Snark, Isaac, and Corym all approach the conversation. Benni hears, but remains out of sight. The man in question is well dressed in what looks like more traditional ship's captain attire and seems friendly enough. Rio's demeanor indicates she's not at all worried about him. She gives a warm smile before answering, "don'na worry, heroes. This be Jefferson Lee. He be tryin'a poach some crew for Lord Ellington's mission t'go after Cortez's treasure. It's a damned fool's errand, sure'nuf, but don't hold that against Jeff here. If the Lord wants to throw money away, that's his business."
Jefferson Lee bristles at being called Jeff, but lets it go. "Ours is not to question the intentions of our sponsor, Captain. We were hired to mount an expedition to search for a shipwreck and recover any valuables. There's nothing untoward about that! Still, I see I've chosen a poor time to come looking for additional crew. I bid you good day."
Sense motive DC22, Highlight to display spoiler: {Jefferson Lee seems nervous about something. His gaze kept going back to Patch more than the others.}
Unless the party has words for the man, he departs. Captain Rio chuckles once he's out of earshot and shakes her head. "Idiots, all of them," is her entire commentary on the situation.
The morning progresses, and true to Rio's word the rains start to ease up. The last of the barrels are brought aboard. Ralpheus wheels the last barrel himself, but sets it on a stand on the docks and taps it. He pours a large tankard of the stuff and holds it up in the air before shouting out, "a toast!" This has the desired effect of bringing absolutely everyone in earshot streaming towards the drink. Ginifred and the kids start handing out smaller cups of the Woad Beer to anyone who would like one...
“Benni” AC 22/12/18. CMD16. HP 24 24 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+14=21 ; Saturday February 4th, 2023 4:14:07 PM
Onesimos has a moment that he thinks… but no, it looks like everything was handled.
Nothing to do but participate in what the elf is sure is a community event: having a mug of Woad Beer. The Captain and crew and Luck Makers have to trust each other on the trip, and Benni feels the comradely around the barrel is important to that goal.
He makes sure he only has one…
….. Sense Motive 21. So close!
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T14 F15, CMD 12, HP 41/41 d20+4=23 ; Sunday February 5th, 2023 12:57:04 AM
(Sense Motive 23)
"Cortez's treasure eh? What's that?"
Snark will grab a couple of cups of Woad Beer and drink them both.
He'll walk over to Benni. "You know Benni, we oughta keep an eye on that Patch fella. Ol' Jeff seemed mighty nervous about something, and his gaze kept going back to Patch. There might be something fishy going on with those two."
Then Snark will go below decks and pick a lower hammock that he can reach.
Saniainen Noapte (Holly) AC19, CMD 15, HP 20/20 Sunday February 5th, 2023 7:12:33 PM
Sani is a sweet-tempered human sorcerer with long braids, dancing eyes, and a little bat familiar named Flyst nestled in her hair. She wears a blue tunic cut on the bias with a ridiculously capacious belt and chest strap that is absolutely stuffed full of... stuff. Her leg coverings are deep red leather, and she wears sturdy brown boots chased with gold. She erupts in a gale of laughter in answer to the question about her romantic status. "Nay, pure happenstance that we fell in with you lot around the same time. Tykeas here, like all of you, is a new friend to me. Now, give us a mug. To new adventures!" She surreptitiously casts the Detect Magic cantrip on the beer.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 47/47 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 39/48AC 18/18/15 Sunday February 5th, 2023 9:44:20 PM
Teddy and Gore'Thum will take small beers and wait to see what is going to be toasted. Well Teddy takes two and is ready to help Gore'Thum drink out of the tiny cup when it's time. The frog is really more well suited to a bowl.
Khord Briarmark AC20 T15 FF15 CMD 20 HP 43/43 Monday February 6th, 2023 3:38:56 PM "Did someone propose a toast?" Asks a tall and wiry half-orc as be bounds up out of the hold with a shaggy looking wolfhound trailing behind him. He descends down to the docks and reaches for a tankard and after filled raises a cup to all around.
He wears some sort of silvery white chain shirt under well worn traveling clothes in differing shades of green, grey, and black, a pair of short swords in scabbards at his hips. A close observer would notice other light weapons stowed about his body. He wears a well built pack on his back but does not seem to have many other possessions. He has a short trimmed beard, head shaved on the sides and a mop of hair atop his head that is held back with a tie. He scratches the hound about the head as he drains his cup. "To a safe journey friends," he says as he nods toward the ship.
DM edit: Close syntax tags with a / symbol, like this but with brackets {/b}.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T14 F15, CMD 12, HP 41/41 Monday February 6th, 2023 5:52:37 PM
Snarks eye go a bit wide at the arrival of the half-orc with the giant dog. He moves next to Teddy, "You know, if he put a saddle on that thing we could ride it. Let's hope, as the little guys here, that he keeps that thing well fed."
The little gnome has tan skin and pale blue hair and beard. He's dressed in a green robe that comes to about his knees with brown breeches beneath. Slung across his back is a short staff with a polished pale blue stone atop it. At just over 3' tall, even the dog towers over him.
The wizard looks up as he addresses this new guy, reaching up to shake the half-orc's hand. "Hey pal, well met! My name's Snark - what's yours? What's yer dog's name? He's a big one alright. Does he bite?"
DM Carl Monday February 6th, 2023 7:01:19 PM Benni feels like he's on the cusp of figuring something out, but it slips away. No time to worry about that, though. There's beer to drink.
Snark catches Jefferson's disposition towards Patch and thinks they should keep an eye on the Quartermaster. He gets himself a cup of beer and goes to drink it, but Ralpheus clears his throat and gestures to everyone else holding their beer and waiting for the toast.
Sani finds the beer is not magical. It's actually a pretty light beer. It has a pleasant, fruity taste but is not as filling as heavier brews.
OOC: Post whenever works for you. I try to post at around the same time everyday.
Khord hears beer and decides it's time to jump in. Captain Rio raises an eyebrow at the latecomer. "Figure'd ya decided to bow out! Get yer stuff on board after the toast. We leave soon for Hook City!" Snark is immediately taken with Khord's dog.
Ralpheus waits until everyone's got a cup, then speaks up. "Another year, another hundred barrels of this stuff. Lets give a toast to Captain Rio's crew and our chosen emissaries! Our entire existence rests upon your successful completion of this mission!" He flashes a smile at the Captain, finding her downing the beer already. She lets out an impressive belch before answering "Don'na you worry Ralph. The Sea Witch will get it there!"
Cries of "hear, hear!" go up among laughter from the crowd. As mentioned earlier, Woad Beer is a lighter beer than many may be used to and is less intoxicating. Indeed, drinking a whole cup doesn't even put someone Snark's size in danger of intoxication. That may not sound like a good thing, but after drinking it everyone notices that things just seem...better! Like they can take on anything!
OOC: Drinking Woad Beer gives a +1 luck bonus to every D20 roll for 24 hours.
Rio waves as she walks up the gangplank. "All aboard!" she shouts.
Corym Morhice (Ben V) AC20 T15 F16 CMD20, HP 32/32 Monday February 6th, 2023 8:06:55 PM
Corym enjoys a mug of beer, feet kicked back and quite obviously enjoying the camaraderie. He introduces himself to the tall half-orc, shaking his hand. "The name's Corym. I'm scared of dogs. Please don't let it eat me." After introducing himself, he goes to sit back down.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 62/62 AC24/ T13 / FF 20 Monday February 6th, 2023 9:24:51 PM
Isaac takes a mug of beer and drink heartily. It's taste was divine. He made sure all his shopping was done before getting on the ship. Isaac does comment it will be good going back home I need to see my family and my friends in the City Watch will want an update haven't written to them for awhile" He smiles as he boards the boat.
Tykeas hp 39/39 AC20/F16/T14 CMB/CMD 14/14 Monday February 6th, 2023 11:42:25 PM
After seeing that the Captain has all in regulation, Tykeas turns and lopes up the runway and onto the ship. At mention of a toast, he fills his mug and joins in Wine would be better but this isn't that bad He looks over the new comer and his dog and muses if the owner or the dog will eat more on this sojourn.
Saniainen Noapte (Holly) AC19, CMD 15, HP 20/20 Tuesday February 7th, 2023 1:47:07 AM
Sani smells that salt air and grins in anticipation. It's been a while since she's been on a ship and she can't wait to be at sea-- the sea is freedom. She gulps down her beer, settles her pack on her back, and strides up the gangplank. She immediately sets out to find and make friends with Khord's dog.
“Benni” AC 22/12/18. CMD16. HP 24 24 Onesimos (SteveK) Tuesday February 7th, 2023 2:30:11 AM
Onesimos toasts the venture and enjoys the Woad Beer. The elf is startled at the sudden appearance of Khord and wolf, but Captain Rio seemed to have expected him. His pleasant tenor calls out: ”Well come to the Luck Makers, and our temporary company within the Wold.”
“Ralphus does not exaggerate, my friends. The Woad Beer is nearly the only export for Heranmar, and can be the difference between thriving and just surviving. And we non-sailors are here to ensure the cargo arrives safely. I think we need to see how our skills work together best.”
The brown-haired elf goes first. He explains he is a cleric of Flower, goddess of the seven loves, and he will use his magic for defense and protection. He is also well armored and can defend well in melee, but not really mobile or agile.
…. +1 Luck on all d20 rolls (24 hours)
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 47/47 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 39/48AC 18/18/15 Tuesday February 7th, 2023 6:39:03 AM
Teddy and Gore'Thum down their alcohol. Gore'Thum really likes the stuff and Teddy think's it's pretty neat too. Khord and the captain might have to watch the pair to make sure they don't drink too much on the trip - that stuff is supposed to be sold at the destination not drunk on the way there!
Saniainen Noapte (Holly) AC19, CMD 15, HP 20/20 Tuesday February 7th, 2023 1:56:30 PM
Sani turns to Benni. "Glad to hear there's a cleric among us! I'm a sorcerer and a bit of a magpie-- I haven't got a specialty, per se. If I know it, I cast it. I do love a good Lightning Bolt though. And of course, misdirection is always fun. The one thing I don't hold with is necromancy. For... reasons."
Khord Briarmark AC20 T15 FF15 CMD 20 HP 43/43 Tuesday February 7th, 2023 3:25:07 PM "Well met friends, my name is Khord Briarmark and my partner in crime here is Niko." The hound cocks his head as he hears his name. "I don't think you would want to ride him Snark, he gets muzzle deep into whatever scraps we get ourselves into. He is trained for fighting, but he is far better behaved than I am at times. When there is no danger about, he is just a big puppy at heart. Corym is it, he might try to nuzzle you or give you a lick but he doesn't have a taste for elf." Khord gives a chuckle at his last comment.
As he downs his beer, the good feeling he gets reminds him of his parent's brewery back home. Heartened by the beer, he listens to Benni and Sani explain their abilities. He offers that he is a Brother of the Guild of Twilight Rangers from Dirt City, skilled at finding things and people especially in urban environments but in the wild as well. He and Niko fight as a unit, Khord wielding his short swords up close while Niko flanks and keeps their foes off their guard. He joined this adventure as he is tracking down a lead in Hook City for an employer from back home.
"But how much trouble can we get into on this glorified beer run anyway?" Khord says as he walks up the plank and boards the ship.
Saniainen Noapte (Holly) AC19, CMD 15, HP 20/20 Tuesday February 7th, 2023 4:50:42 PM
Legend tells of a mustachioed rogue of old, known as Bandit, who once led a glorious beer run. He narrowly escaped the dark paladin Smokey. Trouble was had, but the tales sound like it was fun.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T14 F15, CMD 12, HP 41/41 Tuesday February 7th, 2023 5:10:19 PM
The little gnome reaches up to scratch Niko behind the ears. "So, we got a frog, but I can ride him neither. Glad to have you fellas here."
Snark responds Saniainen, "Yeah, I heard about that guy. He had a sidekick that had a dog too. Eastbound and down I hear he went. Wonder whatever happened to him.
"Anyway, glad to know you can throw lightning bolts. I can do fireballs. Maybe we oughta compare spells." Snark will share his spell book with Saniainen so she knows what he can do. (Feel free to look at his character sheet, including his stuff and his spellbook.
DM Carl Tuesday February 7th, 2023 5:43:06 PM
Corym takes it easy for a few moments before the adventure begins. All he asks for is to not be eaten by a dog. That’s pretty reasonable.
Isaac is eager to get back home and see his guard friends. Being from Hook City, he’s likely heard tales of how difficult the bureaucracy can be for merchants. Let’s hope they were exaggerating!
Tykeas prefers wine to beer, but the Woad Beer isn’t bad. He also pays attention to the dog.
Sani is evidently very excited to be out to sea! She strides up the gangplank, ready to tackle the important task before her. That task is, of course, making friends with Khord’s dog.
Gore’Thum and his rider both like the beer. They’re pretty sure they’re not supposed to drink the inventory that’s on the ship, but maybe there will be some left in the barrel that Ralpheus opened on the docks…
Khord ensures everyone that his giant, bred to kill dog is a big puppy at heart, but that doesn’t mean he’ll be ok with anyone jumping on his back. Even a gnome! He asks how much trouble a glorified beer run can be, unknowingly jinxing the entire adventure.
Sani shows Snark he may have some competition for Pun Master of the Luck Makers, but Snark shows he’s prepared to fight for it. He offers to compare spells with Sani, though the
Captain Rio waits on board for the adventurers she’s ferrying to Hook City. She still has a smile on her face, but there’s definitely been a shift in her personality. Her accent is a little less folksy, and she has a more serious air about her. She’s still pretty approachable, but her Captain’s hat is firmly on her head.
”Welcome aboard the Sea Witch, heroes. You’re all welcome on deck and in the galley, as well as your quarters and the cargo hold containing the beer. The other cargo holds, the crews’ quarters, the larder, and anyplace else I ain’t said you’re allowed are all off limits. We’d appreciate your help should monsters or miscreants attack, but don’t interfere with the crew, especially in poor weather! If anyone breaks the rules…” She sighs and relaxes. ”Look, don’t break the rules, a’right? I like all’a you and it wouldn’t feel right.” She smiles one last time before she takes off and gets busy preparing her ship to make way.
The crowd at the docks cheer and wave as Rio orders her crew to weigh anchor. Looks like it’s time to set sail…
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 62/62 AC24/ T13 / FF 20 Tuesday February 7th, 2023 5:59:10 PM
Isaac looks back Khord as they board the ship "Be careful about what you say people here are superstitious. Start talking like that and they'll blame us if we end up knee deep in fish people."
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T14 F15, CMD 12, HP 41/41 Tuesday February 7th, 2023 6:38:08 PM
Snark will look for a place where he can work undisturbed for 8 hours. He will clear this with Captain Rio. "I got some magic work to do and if it's possible, I'll need a quiet place to work for about 8 hours. Not the whole trip you see, just a few days. But I want to make sure it's OK with you and doesn't interfere with the rhythm and flow of the ship. And of course, if there's a problem I can always respond."
(Kindly let me know if Snark can get 8 hours of undisturbed work done today.)
He will also use the Message cantrip to have a private conversation with the Luck Makers, and he'll include the new folks as well. Except the dog, because, you know, he's just a dog.
"We oughta keep an eye on that Patch fella. Ol' Jefferson seemed mighty nervous about something, and his gaze kept going back to Patch. There might be something fishy going on with those two. But here's what else - Cap'n Rio doesn't want us snooping around. It's always possible that she's the problem here and Jeff and Patch were worried about what she was doing. Just keep yer eyes open, that's all I'm trying to say."
Corym Morhice (Ben V) AC20 T15 F16 CMD20, HP 32/32 d20+11=31 ; Tuesday February 7th, 2023 7:09:04 PM
Corym nods at the information presented in the Message. He hadn't picked up on that cue, but now that he'd been informed he would keep a close eye on it. He starts doing some maintenance work on his bow, the sea air didn't seem to mesh well with the bowstring.
He also uses this mundane task as an excuse to spy a bit on the interactions between Patch and the Captain. (NAT 20, 31 perception or 21 SM, whichever applies better)
Tykeas hp 39/39 AC20/F16/T14 CMB/CMD 14/14 d20+13=21 ; Tuesday February 7th, 2023 9:26:26 PM
The minotaur retreats to his bed"pile" for a bit thinking on the "possible problem" of patch and the other. Finally deciding on a course of action, he grabs a small handful of straw and heads above deck. Finding a spot that doesn't see alot of traffic, he sits down and places a single straw in his mouth. He closes his eyes and appears to be in a deep trance. He is in actuality, thinking on the problem and listening to the talk of the sailors. Perception to overhear sailor convo's Roll 21
Saniainen Noapte (Holly) AC19, CMD 15, HP 20/20 Wednesday February 8th, 2023 12:48:32 AM
Sani acknowledges the Message from Snark, and wonders if the Luck Makers should form a plan to distract the crew so we can, you know... poke around a bit. (Shoulda taken Invisibitly at L3....) Using a Message cantrip of her own, she asks if anyonen the group is adept at schnnneaking. (Also, mayhap we shouldn't schneak. I mean, I love a schneak as much as the next girl. However, I didn't take Boyancy, so good Capn' Rio could HAPPILY keelhaul the lot of us.)
Saniainen Noapte (Holly) AC19, CMD 15, HP 20/20 Wednesday February 8th, 2023 12:53:17 AM
Question to our DM: Are the corridors warded against us magically? And, are there guards? I don't want to step on the Capn's toes mind yeh. But... jes' probin' if I mights magcially, ehhhh, schneeeak (Sorry for the pirate patois. Something about being on a ship! HUZZAH! Oh c'mon. Yo ho ho?)
“Benni” AC 22/12/18. CMD16. HP 24 24 Onesimos (SteveK) Wednesday February 8th, 2023 1:22:25 AM
Onesimos keeps to the gunwale and waves at Heranmar until safely out of the harbor.
The cleric listens soberly to Captain Rio. Her ship, her rules, and they seem reasonable. He says so aloud. ”There is probably little privacy on a ship, so the rules help keep the community together and your non-sailors out of potential danger.”
The elf nods at Snark and Sani’s Messages, and notes Tykeas already has a plan. ”Be aware of things onboard and away. Good. I don’t think we need a specific guard in the Beer Hold right now, but each of us randomly looking in to ensure no leaks or pilferage is a good idea.”
Benni spends his days near the stern to be on hand to speak with Rio or Hook. He makes occasional trips to the Beer Hold to check it out.
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 47/47 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 39/48AC 18/18/15 Wednesday February 8th, 2023 7:30:28 AM
Teddy is happy to follow all of the rules carefully. He suspects nothing and no one and is looking forward to the trip and Snarks message just makes him think the gnome is being paranoid. Or maybe just really, really hoping the gnome is just paranoid. Gore'Thum,is more willing to listen to Snark's suggestion but has no idea what to do with it.
Khord Briarmark AC 20 T15 FF15, CMD17, HP 43/43 d20+11=23 ; d20+11=20 ; Wednesday February 8th, 2023 4:48:03 PM
Khord hears the messages in his head and tries not to look too surprised. He mills about the deck for a short time and then he leads Niko down to the beer hold and has a look around. he checks out the hatches to the other holds, looking for any extraordinary measures taken to keep people out. (perception 23).
Then after having a good look, he heads back up to the main deck and tries to look casual while keeping an eye on Patch (perception 20).
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 62/62 AC24/ T13 / FF 20 d20+10=23 ; d20+6=17 ; Wednesday February 8th, 2023 5:25:37 PM
Isaac not one for subtlety decides to just get straight to the point. He walks over to Patch and asks "Hey patch you got time for a question or is this a bad time?" If he can and the captain is not in ear shot he asks "That Jefferson Lee person seemed a little odd do you know anything about him or worked with him before?" Diplomacy:23 Sense Motive:17
Saniainen Noapte (Holly) AC19, CMD 15, HP 20/20 Wednesday February 8th, 2023 6:59:17 PM After listening to Benni's wise counsel, I'm less worried about the crew or cargo than about the pirates.
Corym Morhice (Ben V) AC20 T15 F16 CMD20, HP 32/32 Wednesday February 8th, 2023 7:20:49 PM
Corym's reply to Sani's message is quick and to the point. "I can sneak."
Corym will relax on the bow of the ship, continuing to attempt to sus out the relationship between the two.
Tykeas hp 39/39 AC20/F16/T14 CMB/CMD 14/14 Wednesday February 8th, 2023 8:04:19 PM
Tykeas continues to present himself as meditating and continues to listen to the general banter of the crew as they go about their buisness.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T14 F15, CMD 12, HP 41/41 Wednesday February 8th, 2023 8:31:55 PM
Snark offers to do his magic item construction work in the beer hold. Afterall, noone should be going in or out much, and the little gnome really doesn't take up much space. In fact, he can even hang his hammock in there if it will be helpful.
DM Carl d20+13=20 ; Wednesday February 8th, 2023 8:46:48 PM
The Sea Witch glides out to sea as the onlookers back at dock cheer and wish you good luck.
Isaac warns Khord about the power of jinxing.
Rio will provide Snark with a workspace down in the cargo hold with the beer. Days will be clearly delineated, and you'll have plenty of time to work should you choose to.
Corym keeps an eye on Patch and Rio. He sees nothing worth mentioning at first, but the more the ship gets out to sea, the more the behavior of the crew seems to change. They were never the friendliest bunch, but they seem to go out of their way to avoid any of the Luck Makers.
Sense Motive DC15, Highlight to display spoiler: {You're not just being paranoid, either. The crew really is acting more aloof and distant.} DC25, Highlight to display spoiler: {Even Captain Rio's acting a bit off, but she hides it much better.}
*This is a single roll, not one roll for each spoiler. Anyone can make this roll, so long as they're not hunkered down at a work bench or something. Corym uses his 21.
Tykeas uses the old "look like you're lost in thought so people talk around you" trick, but the sailors go out of their way to keep their distance anyway (make the same sense motive roll above).
Sani decides it might be worth investigating why they don't want the Luck Makers poking around.
OOC: Not that you can tell, but they wouldn't necessarily be glowing blue or anything if they were. There aren't guards posted at the entrance to places you're not supposed to be, but the crew regularly enters and exits those places. It would take some real good schnnneaking.
Benni's understanding of the rules gets him a big smile from Rio. He spends the first day at sea on deck with trips down to check on the beer. Nothing he sees down in the hold gives him pause. Rio runs a tight ship.
Teddy is happy to follow the rules, and seems to hope Snark will do the same. Gore'Thum seems more ready to get into trouble. Maybe not a bad idea? Most people probably assume he has only animal intelligence.
Khord leads his hound down to the cargo hold to check the beer and scope out the security. There doesn't seem to be any effort made to protect the beer from the crew. In fact, the crew regularly comes and goes. Seems the hold is not solely dedicated to the beer. There's a store of ropes, rigging, sails, and other boat stuff kept down there.
A few of the Luck Makers seem to be keeping an eye on Patch. After a few hours, he starts to act a little squirrelly. He regularly turns quickly to see if anyone's watching him, but never catches anyone directly.
Isaac grabs the bull by the horns and just asks Patch if there's history. That gets a smile on the old sailor's face. "Saw that, did you? It ain't proper to try'n poach sailors off a ship right before they leave. May look like we're all just milling about doing ship stuff, but there's a lot of work that goes into planning a voyage! Not enough food, folks go hungry. Hungry sailors are bad news. Too much food, it goes bad and we lose money." He shakes his head, showing a bit of disgust. "And Mr. Jefferson Lee knows that! He just don't seem to care cause he's working for a Lord. I may have given Lee a piece of my mind on the matter." He smiles in a way that makes clear he absolutely gave Lee a piece of mind on the matter.
Isaac only, sense motive DC10. Highlight to display spoiler: {He seems to be telling the truth.} DC 22, Highlight to display spoiler: {He's telling the truth, but maybe not the whole truth."} If sense motive is 5 or lower, Highlight to display spoiler: {He's lying! The old man's hiding something.}
Rio calls everyone over at some point to show them the map of their voyage. "There's a lot of reefs and sandbars close to shore on the way, but that's a lot safer than what yer likely to find in the deep ocean." She points out a few places where reefs are marked on the map. "We'll need to go slower 'round these parts, but we'll make it. It ain't our first trip to Hook City." She rolls the map up. "Anyway, we shouldn't be outta sight of land too often on the trip. Worse comes to worse, we'll be in swimming distance to shore!"
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 47/47 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 39/48AC 18/18/15 d20=18 ; d20=11 ; d20=6 ; Thursday February 9th, 2023 7:29:59 AM
Teddy notes the tension and is unhappy with it (sense motive 23). Gore'Thum not so much, though he trust Snark's instincts. Gore'Thum decides to wander the ship on his own and see what he can see and hear (perception 9)
“Benni” AC 22/12/18. CMD16. HP 24 24 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+14=28 ; d20+14=33 ; Thursday February 9th, 2023 11:24:17 AM
Onesimos looks intently at Captain Rio’s map and intended route. ”I trust you, Captain: weighing the dangers of reefs or pirates or sea monsters. It sounds like pirates may be more likely to defend against, and because they would want the cargo, we can assume no fire or catapults. Good.”. This last is more of a question than statement, hoping Rio or Hook will confirm his thoughts.
Benni makes up for his missing Jefferson Lee’s attitude by being his usual, insightful self. At the first night, when just the Luck Makers are together, the elf tells what he knows. ”We are not just being paranoid, either. The crew really is acting more aloof and distant. Even Captain Rio's acting a bit off. I believe most people act this way when they think they know something but are afraid to say it. What I don’t know is if it is something to do with our trip or to do with rumors about us. Any ideas on how to run that down?” ….
Sense Motive. 28 and 33
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T14 F15, CMD 12, HP 41/41 d20+4=22 ; Thursday February 9th, 2023 1:40:38 PM
Snark is a little puzzled by the aloof and distant nature of the crew. (Sense Motive 22)
He will take a break from his work to cast Detect Magic, but he casts this on his bat Luna (Share Spells). He will walk below and about the ship where permitted, having Luna sense for magic, letting him know where and what is magic. This prevents him from looking too obvious since the person (or bat in this case) detecting must concentrate to sense the magic as he goes. Luna will be peeking out from under his cloak as he goes.
He will also stop by to talk to Scab the cook at some point. "Say Scab - I just wanted to say I appreciate your honesty around here. I know the Captain likes to call you Happy, but from one realist to another, the world ain't all that rosy all the time. If there's any way I can help you out, lemme know. I can even conjure up a spirit to clean up after dinner if you like. My name's Snark."
Beyond this, the little gnome works on his magic items.
Khord Briarmark AC 20 T15 FF15, CMD17, HP 43/43 d20+9=10 ; Thursday February 9th, 2023 4:25:58 PM
Sense Motive (natural 1 for a 10): Khord assumes there there is always this air of tension abord a ship, and thinks sailors are a weird lot. He takes Patch at his word. He takes a look at the map with Captain Rio, noting the course but being a stranger to these lands not having much context for what to expect.
He spends the remainder of the day working on teaching Niko the Quiet watch trick since they have a couple weeks on their hands.
Niko AC17 T13 FF14 CMD20 HP 52/52 sniffs at the salt air and is working on getting used to the rocking of the ship. He wonders if there are any snacks about
Later that night, responding to Benni, "maybe they know how important the cargo is to the prosperity of Heranmar, there are many families relying on the gold from the Woad Beer. Plus, what rumors are there about us they would be concerned with. Is there something I should know about you lot?"
Saniainen Noapte (Holly) AC19, CMD 15, HP 20/20 Thursday February 9th, 2023 5:10:12 PM
Sani only got a brief glimpse of the map, but it looked like the parts one might need to "go slower 'round" were the narrow straits near the North Downs. She tries to recall any reports of wreckers in those coves. She addresses the Luck Makers: "I agree that there's something strange going on. The Capn' mentioned this isn't their first trip to Hook City. I wonder what happened on previous trips? I'm going to go strike up some conversations."
Corym Morhice (Ben V) AC20 T15 F16 CMD20, HP 32/32 Thursday February 9th, 2023 9:22:21 PM
Corym notices the distant nature of the crew and decides that perhaps their initial behavior was just a façade at first to get them on the ship - more hands to keep pirates at bay, or something like that.
Despite noticing this, he doesn't change his behavior in the slightest. Just keeps to himself and observes. Call it creepy, but his eyes see a lot.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 62/62 AC24/ T13 / FF 20 d20+10=12 ; Thursday February 9th, 2023 10:45:20 PM
Isaac thanks Patch for indulging his questions. Later he tells the others what Patch told him." Apperantly Mr.Lee was trying to poach some sailors including Patch. He needed a Quartermaster( I think that's the term) and was trying to get Patch. I think Patch knows what he talking about but their might be a little more to it. I've also noticed the odd behavior around the ship but until something happens if we're to obvious about poking around they'll just be more paranoid about us." Isaac does try and make small talk around the ship and try to join in some of gambling if the crew is playing. Diplomacy:12
DM Carl Thursday February 9th, 2023 11:21:21 PM
Teddy and Gore'Thum find themselves on the receiving end of many stares and curious looks. Teddy's the only beastfolk on the ship, but the giant frog seems to be a sort of minor celebrity. After the sailors realize he's not just an animal, many take a liking and welcome his company. They have plenty of questions when Teddy's around.
"Does he talk? Can he understand me?" "Does he eat rats? Cap'n Rio don't like cats, but ships could always use something to eat the vermin!" "Can I pet him? Is he slimy?"
By extension, the crew seems more inclined to be welcoming around Teddy too.
Benni discusses the dangers of pirates. This gets Rio talking. "Well, most pirates just wanna take your valuables and go. Most'a the time if you hand over a big chest full'a gold they thank you and leave. Folks on both sides tend to die once the stabbin' starts. Problem is our 'treasure' is a few tons of beer. That ain't something we can just hand over, even if we were willing to forsake your kin back home. Nah, if pirates come, we're gonna have a fight."
Sense motive DC 12, Highlight to display spoiler: {Rio seems excited about that possibility.}
Snark does some recon. He discovers the captain, Hook, and Patch all carry some magic on them. Other than that, there's not a lot of the stuff to be found. At least, there's none in the areas Snark is allowed.
Then, he visits the cook. Scab doesn't seem to appreciate Snark's company until he mentions a spirit that can clean. "Like some sorta water spirit that washes everything?" He looks around the dingy galley. "Well, that might be pretty helpful, yea!" He looks expectantly at Snark, who notices the place could use a good scrub already. Hard to say if it's ever had a good scrub now that he looks at it.
Khord figures sailors are just weird people. He's not wrong. He spends his spare time teaching Niko. He wonders if the sailors have reason to be wary about the Luck Makers. Has he thrown his hat in with miscreants?
Sani tries to remember anything she may have heard about the dangers for ships on their route.
OOC: Sani, give me a knowledge, local roll.
She decides she's going to talk to the crew & sus out what's going on.
Corym will not miss the previous geniality of his hosts. His creepy eyes see all.
Isaac fills his comrades in on his conversation with Patch.
The day passes peacefully. True to Rio's word, the weather stayed pleasant. The ship did lose sight of the land for a brief period of time, but as the sun sets distant peeks come into view.
Knowledge, Geo DC10, Highlight to display spoiler: {Those are almost certainly the peeks of the North Downs. It seems the ship has been travelling in the correct direction.}
Tykeas hp 39/39 AC20/F16/T14 CMB/CMD 14/14 Thursday February 9th, 2023 11:26:51 PM
Tykeas gives up the pretense of meditating. He moves to the bow and retrieving several stored stones, practices throwing the stones off the ship while moving and crouching in various stances.
Saniainen Noapte (Holly) AC19, CMD 15, HP 20/20 d20=10 ; Friday February 10th, 2023 12:04:59 AM
Knowledge roll: 10 +1 modifier, for 11
“Benni” AC 22/12/18. CMD16. HP 24 24 Onesimos (SteveK) d20+9=21 ; Friday February 10th, 2023 12:26:27 AM
Onesimos senses Rio is excited about a fight with pirates. While Benni doesn’t share a word like ‘excitement’, he doesn’t like those who deliberately prey on good people trying to live good lives together. Yes, the elf will be able to do his share if it comes to that.
Benni is thinking about magic like Snark to support the Sea Witch. But before making any grand offers, he says a blessing over the next meal and adds a Purify Food and Water spell. He wants to see that if, being away from Heranmar and the land, is magic still difficult to do?
…… Sense Motive +14, auto pass Concentration. 21 to cast Purify F&W on the meal
0 - Create Water, Purify Food and Drink, Stabilize, Detect Poison 1 - Bless(D), Magic Weapon, Sanctuary, Remove Fear, Prot v Chaos 2- Shield Other(D), Augury, Silence, Remove Paralysis, Make Whole 3- Prayer(D), Create Food and Water, Water Breathing, Daylight
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 47/47 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 39/48AC 18/18/15 d20=7 ; d20=13 ; Friday February 10th, 2023 7:47:13 AM
Teddy is personable enough, happily answering any questions the crew has, explaining that Gore'Thum is his mentor and taught him everything he knows. He's far to nervous to actually gather information though (diplomacy 7 so he won't be getting any answers that way). Gore'Thum is not personable, but appreciates the attention and has a sort of grumpy charm to him.(diplomacy 11)
Khord Briarmark AC 20 T15 FF15, CMD17, HP 43/43 d20+9=21 ; d20+5=21 ; d20+6=12 ; Friday February 10th, 2023 3:24:53 PM
Sense Motive 21 Know (Geography) 21 Diplomacy 12 (to draw info from captain)
Attempting to draw more our of Captain RIo, So what kind of tactics can we expect if pirates attack? Will they try to board us and fight in close quarters or will they keep there distance and bombard us with arrows and worse? Have you had to deal with them often in this stretch of water?"
Khord marvels at Tykeas' agility as he watches him throwing stones. "mighty impressive, Tykeas. Remind me to stay out of your line of fire when we get into a scrap."
Looking out at the horizon, he sees what he thinks are the North Downs, Scratching Niko behind the ears, he wonders what awaits over the horizon.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T14 F15, CMD 12, HP 41/41 Friday February 10th, 2023 3:42:56 PM
Snark will spend a few minutes before dinner cleaning up the Galley. Each casting of Prestidigation cleans one cubic foot and takes 6 seconds. So pretty soon the tables and counters and such are sparkling clean. He can also cast Mending here and there to repair cracks in counters or broken handles. "There ya go Scab. Good as new."
He returns to work on his magic items.
At dinner, Snark can tell Benni purified the grub (take 10 - spellcraft 28). He nods approval to the elf. And once dinner is through, he will conjure an Unseen Servant to clean up - wash dishes, clean tables, mop, etc.
Saniainen Noapte (Holly) AC19, CMD 15, HP 20/20 Friday February 10th, 2023 7:55:02 PM
Sani is delighted by the cleaning spell. Snark, you gotta teach me that one! She then heads toward the starboard side of the Sea Witch to watch the terrain slide by.
Isaac Harker (Justin M) HP 62/62 AC24/ T13 / FF 20 d20=18 ; Friday February 10th, 2023 7:58:26 PM
Isaac thinks about if he should try and detect any evil taint around the ship but thinks it might be rude to go around and stare at people. He does ask the more magically inclined members about the Ioun stone he got.
As the peaks of the North Downs he feels at ease seems the ship is heading in the right direction.
Corym Morhice (Ben V) AC20 T15 F16 CMD20, HP 32/32 Friday February 10th, 2023 10:32:43 PM
Corym, after a fruitful day of staring at people, goes to find Snark. He nervously says
"I want to be more like you. At one point I was a student under another mage, but my tutelage didn't go very far. I can see that you're strong in terms of spellcasting, and I want to be as well. I'm not sure if our schools align, but I'd like to study under you, if that is alright. You won't even notice I'm there."
Tykeas hp 39/39 AC20/F16/T14 CMB/CMD 14/14 Saturday February 11th, 2023 12:46:39 AM
Tyreas continues to sling stones as he watches the rest of the crew and his "fighting" companions. He tests the edges of the railing several times to test its weight against his massive bulk.
“Benni” AC 22/12/18. CMD16. HP 24 24 Onesimos (SteveK) Saturday February 11th, 2023 2:41:12 PM
Onesimos spends time through the day with each of the Lick Makers, taking special care to get to know Sani, Tyler’s, and Khord. It must be hard for each of them to get suddenly thrust into a group who have been working together for a while.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T14 F15, CMD 12, HP 41/41 Saturday February 11th, 2023 3:19:10 PM
Snark replies to Sani, "Whoa, a sorcerer thinking a wizard can teach them something. That's impressive. Usually, sorcerers are also most as arrogant as wizards about their spell casting. I like you Sani."
Later he takes Corym aside. He scratches his chin as he says, "Hmmm. Me bein' a tutor. Well, I had a mentor and he was a jerk. So I guess I at least know what not to do. Lemme think about that."
The little gnome lights his pipe and wanders off for a bit. Eventually he comes back to Coyrym.
"Alright Corym, I'll do it.
"Now, first thing we gotta go over is where you're headed with your studies. You going for more wizard, or are you thinking about being an Arcane Archer or maybe Arcane Trickster? Since you got got some roguish skills, that last one might be something to consider. I can't teach you nothing about no thieving stuff, but magical stuff I got down.
"So, here're the spells I got - you might want to copy some of these into your spellbook. That's up to you. And lemme see a couple of your arrows - I'll put some enchantments on them later."
Snark takes the two arrows and wraps some leather around the pointy ends before shoving them into a pocket that seems impossibly small for the arrows. Then he pulls a spellbook out of his other pocket, which again seems impossible to have held the book. He'll share his spellbook with the archer in case there are any spells in there he want to learn and copy into his own spellbook.
Tykeas hp 39/39 AC20/F16/T14 CMB/CMD 14/14 Saturday February 11th, 2023 6:38:06 PM
Tykeas walks around the ship counting the width and legnth and commiting it to memory. Benni? Tyjeas states with some questioning in his tone. What are the tools you bring to the team? I prefer the range over melee if it comes to a fight. I was injured and have never fully regained all my stamina.
Khord Briarmark AC 20 T15 FF15, CMD17, HP 43/43 Sunday February 12th, 2023 7:25:26 AM
When approached by Benni, Khord is all to eager to share. He tells any who will listen about his upbringing in Dirt City, his parents brewery, how his mom (a half-orc) taught him that the looks and whispers about him were just the ignorance of the townspeople. Nonetheless he was always a bit of an outsider.
He shares how he saved his family from a goblin attack on there wagon by distracting and evading them until a couple of Twilight Rangers showed up. They saw the potential in him and brought him in, over his father's (human) mild objection (he was upset to be losing a set of hands in the brewery). Khord found that he needed the brotherhood that came with joining the guild, something that once he became a journeyman agent and bounty hunter he feels like he has lost. He is excited about the possibilities of allying with the Luck Makers as it would allow him to find that sense of family again while on missions in foreign lands.
Saniainen Noapte (Holly) AC19, CMD 15, HP 20/20 Sunday February 12th, 2023 2:16:08 PM
Before he wanders off to enchant arrows and pull useful stuff from pocket dimensions, Sani grins at Snark. "I've always figured magic is magic. We just access it in different ways. I have a lot of respect for wizards. Clerics, too. Healing... that's something I always wanted to do. Oh well; not everyone has an intense connection with the divine. I envy those who do."
Gore'Thum and Teddy Treeborn (Mitch) HP 47/47 AC 12/11/12 CMD 11 Gore'Thum HP 39/48AC 18/18/15 Sunday February 12th, 2023 4:42:34 PM
At some point it is discovered Gore'Thum an sing sea shanties. His deep basso makes a striking addition even if he's not particularly skilled with it.
DM James: Northern Downs (End Day 1) Sunday February 12th, 2023 6:08:48 PM tykeas stops meditating and moved onto the bow of the ship and practiced with his sling. Sani thought about the waters and what she'd heard. She is also amazed by Snarks magic. Benni isn't as excited as Rio about a naval battle as the captain, but is ready if one starts. He blessed and purified the food. Teddy enjoyed tnf the attention but wasn't much good at information gathering. Khord asked Rio about her tactics at sea. Snark used his magic to clean the galley. Issac considered using his ability to detect evil, but thought it was rude and decided against it. Corym asked to be Snarks apprentice.
Sani doesn't remember much about the waters around the northern downs. Just the typical things like pirates, shoals and sandbars.
Khord studied Rio's response to his question. She honestly replied. "Depends on the seas and their state of mind. Calms seas they'll try to board, rough seas they'll try to disable us. If they are crazy there is no telling. Some pirates relish seeing the eyes of those they kill."
Khord - Highlight to display spoiler: {HYour knowledge of the geography tells you that the transit around the Northern Downs will be dangerous in spite of the crews calm demeanor.}
Like most coast hugging vessels the Sea Witch turned towards the shore and anchored for the night within sight of the coast. As the sun was setting and the crew was setting the deck in order the dinner bell rang. After a few quick shifts in the small galley all were fed and back out on deck or in their bunks while they slept and waited for their time at watch.
“Benni” AC 22/12/18. CMD16. HP 24 24 Onesimos (SteveK) Monday February 13th, 2023 1:12:46 AM
Onesimos nods with Khord’s tale. ”Friendship and shared goodwill is as strong as any other type of love. I also hope we can be mutually supporting while helping good people where we travel.”. The elf is interested in how Twilight Rangers differ from other types. Is it just focusing on Urban settings or are there other differences.
The cleric has been getting his sea legs and the feel of how the ship and crew work together. After evening anchoring, Benni suggests that the Luck Makers, too, have a Watch at night. Perhaps:
Snark and Sani, Tykeas and Teddy, Isaac and Khord, and Benni and Corym.
That puts the strongest members of the team in deep night where a surprise attack would be most likely.
Snark Riverstone (MarkB) AC17 T14 F15, CMD 12, HP 41/41 Monday February 13th, 2023 2:23:43 AM
Snark listens to Khord's story. He shudders as he says, "Goblins are bad critters. I helped one out once, and to thank me the stupid Nosepick Tribe kidnapped me for 2 years. Lemme tell you, they lived up to their name. I never wanna go through that again. Glad you're with us Khord."
He is good with Benni's proposed watch schedule.
He stays up a bit late working on his magic item for the day since he's on the first watch. He tells his little bat Luna to spend the night above deck in the rigging, and to alert him if there's trouble. When his watch is over, the little wizard crawls into his hammock to sleep.
Saniainen Noapte (Holly) AC19, CMD 15, HP 20/20 Monday February 13th, 2023 12:28:38 PM
Flyst makes lazy circles above the Sea Witch as Sani takes the first watch.
Khord Briarmark AC 20 T15 FF15, CMD17, HP 43/43 Monday February 13th, 2023 4:20:58 PM
Khord explains to Benni that the twilight rangers are more at home in urban settings, but still have some skill in the wilderness. Originating in Dirt City, the city of thieves, they grew out of a need to protect the common people of the city and the work to protect their interests. "We don't learn to cast spells or talk to the wild things of the woods, we learn to sneak and be crafty and speak the language of the street."
The watch order sounds reasonable to Khord. His darkvision will be of most use in those hours. He feeds Niko and they settle in for some sleep.
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