To Fog Isle (DM Dave) Thursday February 22nd, 2001 10:18:07 PM
Weeks pass as the Lady Freeborn heads toward home base. During this time, Illanta begins picking up skills in animal handling from Ashira, and turns out to be an excellent student, although many of her days are filled with memories of her lost home. Each of you spends this time, gaining more skill at sea, and focusing on your training regimens.
Ever the quick one, Lem integrates into the crew easily, and spirits general rise with each day’s sun, as memories of lost companions ease somewhat. The ship is searched repeatedly, but no sign of a changling is found.
Eventually, convinced that no traitors remain aboard, Sword commands all due speed be put into reaching the pirate base. Besides getting a much needed break from the raiding life, it will also be useful to have a safe spot to perform the annual careening of the Lady Freeborn.
In past months, the crew has resorted to boot-topping to keep the barnacles, sea grass, algae, seaweed, and such off the hull of the vessel. This involved moving everything not nailed down to one side of the ship, causing it to lean over and exposing part of the hull below the waterline. Longboats were dropped and crews scraped and re-tarred the sides using a special scrubbing-broom called a "hog”. Only so much of the hull could be cleaned – so now the vessel is to be grounded and treated completely, including for things such as woodworms.
After another week at sea, Fog Isle is finally spotted, and a glad cheer erupts from the crew. The ship waits until nightfall before approaching, when a beacon of light reveals the correct path through the treacherous coral reefs surrounding the island. The crew arrives in port and begins making preparations for careening. The vessel is completely unloaded at the dock and then, at high tide, it is run aground and settled to one side.
As the process gets under way, the ship’s storemaster Cedric pulls you aside. Thrusting a list in your hand, he says, “You nobles can read and write. Take this over to Weldon’s Provisions and make sure he doesn’t pull the wool off your arse. Tell him we need the goods delivered by the time the Lady is ready and the crew has spent itself wenching and such – about six days from now.” Cedric drops several heavy coin bags on the ground at your feet to fund the purchase.
"Elf, keep an eye on these sea monkeys."
Shopping List (DM Dave) Thursday February 22nd, 2001 10:26:48 PM
15 Block and tackle sets 1000 lbs of Grain 60 Barrels of Beer 5000 yards of sail cloth 500 feet of chain 12 bullseye lanterns 700 feet of hemp rope 40 buckets 50 sewing needles 50 Chickens in coops 20 lbs of limes
Total Spending Money: 1400 gps in various coinage.
Rigging d20+3=10 Friday February 23rd, 2001 12:28:19 AM
Rigging thanks Ashira for her kindness. Later that evening he will gather all of the his raiders for prayers, toasts, and goodbyes for the lost companions. The next day, if he can get an audience with the Captain, he will bring Ari's concerns and questions to the Captain. As time passes, Rigging's heart and mood lighten and he works hard on helping the others get used to shipboard life and learning the skills needed. He will make time for conversations with Lem, exchanging backgrounds and stories. He will also try to ease the children's spirits by casting fun cantrips and telling them happier stories. Rigging will also try to keep track of where the ship is using his navigation profession.
Ashira Friday February 23rd, 2001 2:41:25 PM
As the weeks pass, Ashira is kept very busy trying to balance her duties with the ship, the kennel, and training her new prodigy. She is amazed at the raw talent the young girl possesses, especially for a human! Still, Ashira manages to find some scarce free time to converse with the new recruits. She offers to spend some time training Ashbury when things slow down a bit.
Finally, the day comes for the trip to Fog Island. Ashira has been looking forward to this trip for a long time, and eagerly anticipates meeting up with the mercharts and viewing the new wares.
As she begins to board the longboat into town, she is summond over by Cedric. Her face begins to fall as she listens impatiently while Cedric informs the party of their new assignment. Disappointment written all over her face, she turns to Cedric and says "Great...just great...one little mission gets screwed up and now the lads are put on "domestic duty". And since when have I been a babysitter?!" Grumbling the whole time, she gathers all the money sacks, distrubutes them amoung the party, and prepares to head to shore.
Rigging Friday February 23rd, 2001 3:20:58 PM
Rigging smiles in delight with the assignment. "Shopping! I can finally get some decent clothes again." Rigging snaps off a quick salute and hefts a bag of coin.
Bulldog Friday February 23rd, 2001 8:24:02 PM
Grateful for some small bits of time to visit his little sister, just need to rescue the rest of the family one day. "Ashira, Asbury really isn't an attack dog. Some simple obedience advice and work would be nice." Gathering up the bags of coin, for their shopping expedition. He follows Riggings and Ashira.
Lem Saturday February 24th, 2001 6:23:27 PM
working his time on the ship and never grousing one little bit, Lem takes his free time to get to know his new friends and tell them a little bit about himself as well.
As the group is informed of their impending shopping spree, Lem gets ready to participate as he can.
Ari Sunday February 25th, 2001 2:20:40 AM
After arriving at the ship, and receiving a good nights sleep, Ari meets up with Bulldog.
"While we were in the temple, I was forced to try to go against my father. I was initially afraid, because of this new sword my father was carrying. But when we were forced to flee, I was able to get a hold of this sword. My father is probably dead now. I currently can not use this sword. I might make one at a later time, using this as an example. I'd like you to use this greatsword, if you'd accept this gift. (Greatsword +1, considered a 'Masterwork' as listed in 3e)."
When given the task to go shopping, "I am just glad to be able to look around for awhile, and not have to worry about someone chasing us". Ari smiles as he says this.
Bulldog & Asbury Monday February 26th, 2001 12:22:33 AM
"Ari ... I don't know what to say." Bulldog stunned at the honor that his friend is bestowing upon him. "I accept." Gratefully and gracefully accepting the sword. "I will use it in our war against Ga'al. Knowing that your father made it, I will use it in his memory to fight those that slew him. He will be avenged. Along with the others from home. Thank you." Overwhwlmed by the great gift he finds a place to sit and think. The mighty fighter looks over the blade before swapping it with his old blade. Adding the old blade to the ship's armory.
Smiley Jim (NPC ADM Janell) Monday February 26th, 2001 9:52:40 AM
Waiting alongside the dock, the tall lanky pirate beams his usual garish grin at the group. "Next stop, Fog Island...home to some of the finest wenches in the region!"
Jim signals for the group to join him on the dock. He looks longingly at Ashira and says "Well, well don't you look stunningly radiant today my darling! I couldn't help but overhear that you and the lads will be doing a little shopping at Weldon's. I'm afraid I've become a little too well known by the ladies of the island. Such is the curse of a man with looks as good as mine..." Jim lets out a greatly exaggerted sigh. His smile is back in an instant. "But, I have a few items of my own to pick up at Weldon's, and it certainly wouldn't mind spending my time with a fascinating creature like you!"
Turning to the rest of the group, he adds "I'm sure that I could show you lads a few of the more interesting sites of the island. Mind if I join you?"
Legs Monday February 26th, 2001 2:31:34 PM
Looking at Jim, Legs says, "We've little need for a lascivious rake to give us his version of the place. Take your pretty face elsewhere, if you choose to engage in lechery." His face is flushed. Then, remembering he should be more polite himself, the paladin adds, "Unless you decide you can comport yourself as a gentleman where the ladies are concerned."
Rigging Monday February 26th, 2001 4:48:38 PM
Rigging watches the exchange of Legs and the newcomer Jim with amusement. He thoughts turn to possible spys and a frown quickly crosses his face. Though mundane a mission it is still critically important for the ship. He decides to keep a close watch on this Jim.
Going Shopping (DM Dave) Monday February 26th, 2001 6:31:01 PM
While conversing, the group gets a good look at the town: Wood slatted buildings are painted in garish colors - all mud-splashed from the recent rains. The smell of fish permeates all, and the sounds of robust life fill the air. Fifty or more buildings compose the town (it is hard to tell due to the different sizes) and some type of square apparently lies within the center of the community – a few blocks down from the seashore. To either side of the town stretch tracts of farm and livestock land. The dockside itself is a busy place, with three large ships in port, along with fifteen or more smaller vessels. The sky is thick with seagulls and mist.
Ashira Monday February 26th, 2001 6:35:54 PM
Ashira lunges at Jim, and appears to be preparing to unleash a devastating attack with her fists. At the last minute, she pulls back her blows and embraces Jim in a bear hug. "Jim, you old bilge rat, where have you been hiding? I haven't seen you in so long!"
Turning to the party, Ashira says "Gentlemen, may I introduce you to quite possibly one of the most notoriously egotistical Pirates of Jack... Smiley Jim. Jim and I go way back...as a matter of fact, Jim is one of the reasons I joined the Lady Freeborn. Legs, don't mind him too much, I assure you, he may not be a saint in body, but he's one at heart!"
Ashira releases her embrace upon Jim and pats him on the hind quarters. "If it were up to me, I'd love to have you join us, but you'll have to make sure the lads here agree."
Rigging (taking advantage of mulitple posting :-) ) Monday February 26th, 2001 10:38:36 PM
Rigging strides up to Jim with his hand extended and a bright smile on his face. "We always allow men of low moral character to join us," and Rigging pauses, "If they buy the first round at the end of business."
Blue Monday February 26th, 2001 11:01:57 PM
Blue listens to the banter between Jim and the shoppers with interest. The cleric himself is anxious to go shooping as he needs to replenish his healing supplies.
Bulldog Tuesday February 27th, 2001 12:01:17 AM
The burly fighter makes room for himself to greet the newly introduced pirate. "Well hello Jim, seems Ashira knows you well. If you are ok in her book, thats good enough for me."
Appolo Tuesday February 27th, 2001 1:56:28 AM
Impressions: After several weeks aboard ship, seeing to his duties and learning how to be a salior, the ship finally arrives at a friendly port to take on supplies and be refitted. When they made land fall Appolo and the rest of his friends where to go and fetch suplies, so he went along without complaint. Running into Jim the pirate (who seemed to know Ashira the half elf - who seems to have taken over leadership of the group which is perfectly fine whith him), a tall and lanky fellow like Appolo, and a rogue as well judging by his speach and demeanor. This seemed to offend Leggs and Rigging seemed to find that fact amusing. Ashira then asked the rest of the party if Jim could join them. To which Appolo replies with an apathetic "Sure" not really caring one way or another.
Smiley Jim (NPC ADM Janell) Tuesday February 27th, 2001 9:03:16 AM
"Thanks mates, I've been dying to spend some time with Ashira again, and you've afforded me just such an opportunity."
Turning to Rigging, he broadens his ever-present smile and says "Of coarse I'll buy the first round...and I have just the place in mind. But, I should probably show you gentlemen to Weldon's first. You'll have quite a time trying to get a good price out of old Fredrick...the balding, tight fisted, son of a..." Before he finishes his tirade, Jim looks at Ashira and says "Oh...sorry, I forgot I was in the presence of a lady. A thousand pardons oh majestic one!"
Chuckling, Jim begins to lead the way to Weldon's, cutting through the backstreets as though he had engineered the town to suit his needs.
"Say, did Ashira ever tell you the story about her first mission aboard the Lady Freeborn?"
Rigging Tuesday February 27th, 2001 9:15:29 AM
With a quick glance at Ashira, Rigging says, "No Jim, she never has. Enlighten us."
Ashira Tuesday February 27th, 2001 9:24:38 AM
For the first time since you've began working with Ashira, she actually seems geniunely happy. Come to think of it, isn't this the first time she's smiled?
At the mention of Weldon's, Ashira snaps out of her revelry, remembering the task at hand. "That's right, I almost forgot to tell you lads. There are a few things about our shopping spree that good old Cedric forgot to mention. Weldon's is a good enough shop, but Jim's right, we'll have to really haggle in order to get the prices down to a reasonable rate. As a matter of fact, the last group Cedric sent down here wasn't even able to get all of the supplies."
Ashira chuckles "You should have seen dear old Cedric lay into those poor souls! Oh, and of course he also forgot to mention that if we are somehow able to get all the goods, then the rest of the money is our's to spend as we see fit. Weldon's will be a good place to start, but we should probably check out some of the other shops as well."
At the mention of her first mission, Ashira groans loudly, and rolls her eyes "Really Jim, it's not neseccary to tell THAT story is it?"
Bart d10=9 Tuesday February 27th, 2001 12:06:48 PM
past time: During the trip to the Isle, Bart falls back to his normal duty aiding the ship's cook. Making bread soup and other edible stuff. When he is not in the ships galley he is on the poopdeck training his fighting skills with anyone that wants to spar with him.
current time: "Jim I love to hear THAT story, I think Ashira has to furl sail a bit. Tell it us as we drink an good beer or two. But first to Weldons. Maybe we can earn some money there."
OOC roll is for hp
Smiley Jim (NPC ADM Janell) Tuesday February 27th, 2001 3:26:30 PM
Jim broadens his smile at Bart's comment "Right then, first to Weldon's, then off for a pint or two...probably the Red Dragon's the best place for drinking and story telling. Speaking of Weldon's, we're not far now."
Ari Tuesday February 27th, 2001 6:28:34 PM
Ari tags along with the group, taking in the sights, listening to the conversations. He seems contemplative, for now.
Lem Tuesday February 27th, 2001 7:21:22 PM
Walking along side of the quieter Apollo and Legs, Lem seems almost at ease, but has a pensive look on his face. "Tell me a little about you fallen comrades. I was entrigued by something you said about them. You mentioned that they had been killed and yet helped save you back there. I'm not sure I understand."
Into Town (DM Dave) Tuesday February 27th, 2001 8:18:12 PM
The group heads toward Weldon's as the banter continues. Looking up, the group finds itself standing in front of their destination: A fairly well-kept storefront with the picture sign - of a burnt fish frying in a skillet - dangling over the entryway. Lanterns light the windowless interior.
Bulldog Wednesday February 28th, 2001 12:07:12 AM
Standing in front of the trading post, the fighter speaks up "I get the feeling we are fish about to be hauled into the boat. Ashira, what kind of battle plan do you suggest we have before we enter this war zone ?"
Rigging Wednesday February 28th, 2001 12:27:48 AM
Rigging says, "Ashira, I am going to apologize for the flurry of questions I am about to load on you. How many other shops are there? Can we go straight to the source and buy grain and chickens from the farmers? How long are we gonna be in port? I assume there are coopers and smiths we can approach. Do you want to do the talking? Are you on good terms with this fellow.
Ashira Wednesday February 28th, 2001 9:26:42 AM
"Well, I've heard that Fredrick has a son named Basil who he's trying to train to take over the business. Maybe if we can get Basil alone we'll be able to talk some good deals out of him. I also suggest that we over estimate the amount of equipment we need so that we can haggle them down to the amount we do need."
Ashira shrugs her shoulders "Rigging, I'm sorry, but I'm not sure I can answer all your questions. I've only performed this duty once. As you can imagine, I'm sure that Fredrick remembers me... it's hard to forget someone with looks as good as mine (Ashira runs her fingers through her blue hair). However, it would probably be best to have one of you smooth talking nobles do the bargaining. Don't get me wrong, I'll give it a try if you want me to, but I'm not exactly a diplomat. I'm not sure about how many shops there are here, Jim can probably help us find them. That's a very sharp idea you have about going straight to the source for some items. I'm not sure if it's exactly kosher, but it's worth a try. And yes, there are two smithies and at least one cooper in town. Sorry, but that's all I know."
Bart Wednesday February 28th, 2001 9:48:58 AM
"Warzone? we just have to do some shopping" I say
Bart opens the door of rhe store and walks in. "Ah Mister Weldon, nice day isn't it, and it will be even nicer. We have heard you are the best place in town to buy our ships provinsions. We need several goods and the must be delivered in six days to the Lady Freeborn. It is quite a lot we need, here I give you the list
15 Block and tackle sets 1000 lbs of Grain 60 Barrels of Beer 5000 yards of sail cloth 500 feet of chain 12 bullseye lanterns 700 feet of hemp rope 40 buckets 50 sewing needles 50 Chickens in coops 20 lbs of limes
So name your price and maybe we have an agreement.
Blue Wednesday February 28th, 2001 12:24:56 PM
The stocky young cleric follows the group through town. He is extremely interested in the sights and sounds of the town. Blue stays close to Bulldog, almost underfoot and he giggles at the exchanges between Jim and Ashira.
Legs Wednesday February 28th, 2001 12:41:28 PM
"Yes, Lem. Aelwyndas - Wynd - is from Adorus. We grew up together, with Catcher, and a few others here or gone. Smart, and sharp, not too fair of face, but much beloved, and a fierce fighter, with good wit. Killed a lion once, she did. She wore a ring, found by our friend Poison, also called LaDonna or Nightshade, in a Lem-blessed lightning-struck tree in the center of town the day we left. Skippy - another friend, she whom the Red Scarves killed the day of our escape from our accursed hometown, ascended to the Dragon, then made her presence known in the ring, and rendered us aid on some occasions. When we faced the many-headed Godspawn, she opened a way to save my life.
"In any event, the night of our assault upon the Ga'alian temple in Adorus, at one point a wall and the adjacent ceiling fell upon a few members of our party. I did not know it at the time, but Wynd was crushed beneath. Some of my friends tried to dig her out, but were under assault by scores of people. As she gave up her spirit, I believe the Dragon allowed her to join with Skippy, and, as I perceived, some other angelic being, to complete the destruction of the temple, and allow us our escape from overwhelming doom. This great spirit warned us to flee, and we obeyed the heavenly vision. Most still left in the building suffered death. Appolo, an inch from passing on, was rescued and healed.
"Catcher - one of the toughest friends I know, or knew." Legs pauses for a moment and looks away. "He was shrewd, and canny. He helped lead us out of Adorus, studied with us at the nobles' castle, but was called away from us when indwelt with a weird spirit found in the hills south of the great mountain. He and Nightshade went to the wall in the north. We met him again the night of the raid. I meant to ask him what had happened after last we saw him, but never had the opportunity. Early in our assault on the temple, he was cut down." Legs draws forth his long sword, and hands it to Lem for inspection. "This was taken first by Nightshade, then by Catcher, and now is mine. We found it in a cairn the night he came under possession."
Fredrick (NPC ADM Janell) Wednesday February 28th, 2001 4:17:32 PM
A short, well dressed middle aged man rushes forward to shake hands with Bart. "Good evening sir, may I be of service."
Fredrick listens as Bart makes his request, then reviews the proffered list. "Ahh...always a pleasure to do business with ambassadors from the Lady Freeborn." He runs his fingers through his well groomed auburn hair and starts making clucking noises. "Hmmm...this is quite a list Cedric has for you. Let me see what we can do to accomodate you."
Fredrick turns toward the back of the shop and calls out "Basil, come here, we have a customer that needs assistance."
Ashira Wednesday February 28th, 2001 4:27:59 PM
As Bart turns and heads into Weldon's, Ashira says to Rigging "Well, it looks like Bart has voluntered to be the spokesman. We should join him and see how the negotations are coming along." She adds in a whisper that only Rigging can hear "Is he normally that impulsive?"
"Jim, darling...are you going to join us inside, or am I going to have to hog-tie you and bring you in myself?"
Smiley Jim (NPC ADM Janell) Wednesday February 28th, 2001 4:35:30 PM
Jim looks contemplative for a moment. "Hmmm...I've always liked the sound of bondage, especially with half-elves, but really Ashira dearest, this is really neither the time nor the place for such private enterprises!" The ever-present smile is back on his face in an instant. Jim turns and enters Weldon's with Ashira.
Once inside the shop, Jim begins to amble around the store, examining the fine wares.
Rigging Wednesday February 28th, 2001 4:59:05 PM
Rigging winces at Bart's forthright manner, but decides to let him take the lead. He wanders around the store looking at the merchandise. He is looking for some clothes which would fit him. He is also looking for a shortbow.
Rigging Wednesday February 28th, 2001 5:29:58 PM
Rigging is looking around the store, looking for some leverage. Chores to be done, stolen merchandise, daughters who could be seduced, anything out of the ordinary or something that has possiblities. He keeps a sharp ear out for Bart as he does this.
Inside Weldon's (DM Dave) Wednesday February 28th, 2001 8:03:34 PM
The store is surprisingly diverse in its offerings, although not as tidy as the shops back in Adorus. Rigging quickly spots a pile of clothing, all different sizes and colors all jumbled together. Weapons of various sorts are mounted by pegs on the back wall, past the counter. Currently, there are three other patrons in the store - an old man holding the hand of a young girl, and a young man with tufts of hair standing out in different directions on his head. After a moment, Basil enters the store from a backroom.
Basil (NPC - DM Dave) Wednesday February 28th, 2001 8:13:11 PM
The short, dark haired man takes the proffered list and quickly scans down it, muttering under his breath, glancing up every once in a while in this or that direction at some item shelved here or there.
After a minute, he says, "Yep, all here. I'm assuming you'll want some or all of this delivered directly to the ship? How long until you shove off?" He glances up at Bart for a moment, but one eye is looking off to the left, while the other gazes directly at the young fighter. Waving the paper he says, "With delivery and tax, you're looking at 1,800. With all your friends making several trips, I can shave off 20."
Bulldog, the big burly friend Wednesday February 28th, 2001 11:35:03 PM
After overhearing the quote the burly fighter coughs deeply and adds quietly. "high prices like that. The supplies should be able to crawl there themselves." Sounding a bit unsure of things as he really doesn't know the value of the products. Bulldog stands behind Bart to lend support.
Blue Thursday March 1st, 2001 2:56:08 AM
Blue approaches Jim and asks, clearing his throat, "Ahem...excuse me Jim, might I have a brief word?. It seems that you know this town and the people quite well...what can you tell me about this Basil fellow?...any interesting tidbits? Also are there alternatives to this store for our needed goods? And one last question, does this vendor carry potions and weapons?"
Ari Thursday March 1st, 2001 6:21:35 AM
(sorry for missed post) Ari enters with the crew. He looks around the store, and sees if there is anything labeled, in the way of prices.
Smiley Jim (NPC - ADM Janell) Thursday March 1st, 2001 9:07:19 AM
Jim looks up from the pile of cloaks that he is sorting through. "Hmm...let me see. Basil is an interesting character. Don't let him fool you with that wandering eye trick...he's as sharp as a tack. But, it's no big secret that Basil can't exactly hold his ale, and he thinks he's quite the one with the ladies. Also, he's facinated by magic users. See, not many get out this way, and life on Fog Island can be very boring..."
"About your other questions...Weldon's is the only one-stop shop in town, so most people shop here out of convenience. However, there are several stores around town where you can pick things up. You should be able to find a few potions and weapons here (Jim shows Blue over to a display counter containing vials with liquids of various colors in them), although if you're looking for powerful magic, it's likely to cost you an arm and a leg."
Fredrick (NPC - ADM Janell) Thursday March 1st, 2001 9:22:37 AM
A large burly man enters the store, and strolls up to Fredrick. Shortly after, a beautiful woman dressed in a vibrant blue dress enters and waits patiently for the shopkeep's attention.
Fredrick runs his fingers through his hair in a nervous manner, and begins flitting from one customer to another. Finally, seeing the futility of his actions, Fredrick bellows to the backroom "Misty, get in here! We've got customers to attend to, and I don't pay you to sit around on your bum all day long!"
Misty (NPC - ADM Janell) Thursday March 1st, 2001 9:38:51 AM
Hearing Fredrick's bellow, Misty rushes into the shop, and in her haste, bowls into Rigging, knocking him into the pile of clothing. A look of absolute horror on her face, she begins to uncover Rigging from the garments, apologizing profusely. "Oh, how stupid of me! Are you all right? I'm so sorry sir... let me help you up."
As she helps Rigging to his feet, the young man is amazed at the sight before him. With her stunning features and strawberry blonde hair, this young lady could be considered beautiful. However, it looks like her hair hasn't been combed in a week, and the rags she has on can barely be considered clothing.
Misty rushes over to Fredrick almost out of breath. "I'm sorry sir, I was in the back cleaning up the store rooms. How can I be of service?"
Fredrick (NPC - ADM Janell) Thursday March 1st, 2001 9:51:55 AM
After finishing his conversation with the customer at hand, Fredrick almost pounces on the girl in frustration. "I don't want to hear any excuses out of your sorry little mouth. I want you to gather up the goods for this man and deliver them over to Sussex St."
Fredrick reels off a list of items while Misty flits around the shop picking them up. After bundling the items up, she loads the large bulky sack onto her back and follows the young man with the disheveled hair out of the shop.
Fredrick composes himself and walks over to Rigging. "I'm sorry about that sir! It's so hard to find good servants now-a-days. Is there something I can help you with?"
Bart Thursday March 1st, 2001 1:01:22 PM
"Well Mr Weldon, we where always an good customer of yours, you asking a high price, but before we further negotiate can I and my friend here (pointing at Bulldog) examine the quality of the goods?"
Lem Thursday March 1st, 2001 7:15:02 PM
Listening to Basil and Bart discuss pricing and then Lem walks up and quietly says "Now Maybe I am way off base here but, I used to have to purchase things for the abbey and I must say that your prices are quite high, at least for the things that I know about. I mean with the exception of the chain and sail cloth, which admittedly I know very little about, I could have purchased everything else for somewhere around two hundred gold, delivery included. Now given the fact that you are situated upon an island might account for some increase in price but if you factor in the lower cost of production and overhead due to procurement procedures, that increase should be easily off set. Now I truely don't mean to be rude or obnoxious but I think if we piece meal our order around to some of the smaller businesses we will get a better deal and crete more good will for our ship with the small businessman. Now I agree that will mean more work for us, but the savings that will be incurred will be more than worth a little sweat. I would suggest a price more in the line of about say 900 gold. Now I think we should take our leave and check out our options while you ponder our counter offer.
Appolo Thursday March 1st, 2001 8:42:06 PM
Appolo slips in quietly and slides out of the way and just watches and listens. He is slightly amazed that the group would let Bart do the talking and even more amazed at the way Bart tipped his hand like that. The shop keeper should have a fairly good idea of how much money we have. He is glad when Lem steps in and offers half, which sounds about right to Appolo. Appolo steps forward, "Yes, I think we should check out some of the other shops as well. 1,800 is quite steep."
Basil (DM Dave) Thursday March 1st, 2001 8:42:22 PM
Growing more impatient as he sees other customers arrive, Basil hands the list to Lem, saying, "Thank you, thank you. Feel free to inquire about any items." He steals quick glance at Misty's retreating form, distracted for a moment, then prepares to go check on another customer after giving a checking with your group to see if there are any more questions.
Weldon's Shop (DM Dave) Thursday March 1st, 2001 8:51:16 PM
None of the items have price tags, which isn't surprising, considering that most people can't read. In fact, one person is over at the counter, using hens as payment for some cloth, rather than coin. Three more people enter the store and spread out, looking at various items.
[Rules for negotiation: Keep in mind that success will mostly depend on your comments to the storekeep. However, go ahead and roll a d20 and (hopefully) increase it with your Charisma modifier when trying to influence. Applicable skill bonuses for Bluff, Diplomacy, Intimidate, Knowledge, Profession, Sense Motive, etc. may also be added, if applicable. Make sure to notate when you are relying on such skills. Who you interact with will determine your success or failure - some people's skill scores or foul tempers may make it harder for you to eck out a good deal.]
Ashira Thursday March 1st, 2001 10:30:37 PM
After the commotion is over, Ashira moves in close to Rigging and speaks in hushed tones to him. "I'm not sure if anyone has mentioned this to you yet, but while slavery isn't tolerated in this region, indentured servitude is still alive and well. This Misty that you just bumped into probably came from a poor family, or was captured during a raid. She will be required to work for the Weldon's for a set number of years before she is released. Unfortunately, that is the fate that lies ahead of the children we rescued from your town. Just thought you should know."
Smiley Jim (NPC - ADM Janell) Thursday March 1st, 2001 10:41:26 PM
After Basil leaves to check on another customer, Jim ambles over to where Bart and Lem are standing. Slightly chuckling, he says "Well, I'd say that's probably less cordial than young Master Basil is accustomed to! So mates, what's the plan...there's still a little daylight left, want to find some other shops?"
Blue Friday March 2nd, 2001 12:05:06 AM
Blue thanks Jim for the shared information before he moves over to the recently entered Ari. "Ari, I have been doing a little scouting and it seems that magic users don't get this way much...Basil, the shop man, apparently is facinated by magics, perhaps an introduction to a couple of magic using lads such as ourselves may endear ourselves somewhat and improve pricing. I am anxious to get some room in our budget as this shop stocks potions and our healing supplies are badly depleted. Another tidbit is his weakness for ale...if we get him talking perhaps we can invite him for a beverage. I can't drink for religous reasons, it makes me holy sick, so I would hope to maintain some sobriety and remain sharp for possible bargining...what thinks you?"
Rigging Friday March 2nd, 2001 12:54:17 AM
Rigging is sorting through the clothes when this gorgous creature runs him down. Thinking fast on his feet, Rigging says, "Clumsy Wench! Who is your master?! He must make amends for this grievous insult upon my person! Who is your master?!"
Lem Friday March 2nd, 2001 7:55:31 AM
Well Jim, I'd have to agree with you there and yet at the same time, I've never met an honest shop keeper that wouldn't dicker some. His attitude leads me to believe that not only is he not honest, but that he knows that we have smelled him out. Right now I would be willing to bet that he is fervently praying that we don't just walk out. I however think that we truely will find better prices and good will among the smaller shops. So, shall we go in search of them?
Fredrick (NPC - ADM Janell) Friday March 2nd, 2001 8:47:46 AM
*slightly in the past*
The other customers begin to turn and stare as Rigging makes his tirade against the recently departed Misty. Fredrick is visibly shaken by Rigging's fury, and begins to appologize profusely, almost to the point of groveling. "Oh sir, I hope you're not injured! It's just been so difficult to find good servants recently. Normally, I keep her out of harms way in the back, but we've been so busy recently! Please accept my humble appologies!"
Fredrick looks up briefly, nerviously runs his fingers through his hair, and seeing the other customers still staring, continues. "I see that you were examining our fine line of clothing. Can I help you with that, or can I perhaps help you find something else? Your most humble servant is at your disposal."
Ashira d20+1=3 Friday March 2nd, 2001 9:10:45 AM
*slightly in the past*
Ashira is beginning to move toward Rigging as he begins his tirade. Sensing his plan, Ashira decides to have a little fun with Fredrick as well. (Charisma check =3)
Ashira looks livid, and begins to raise her voice toward the shopkeep. "Fredrick, what is this?! Cedric sends down these fine young nobles as ambassadors of the Lady Freedborn, and first your son treats them like they are common riff-raff, and then your servant girl tries to assault one of them?! Perhaps you don't value the long honored business relationship you've enjoyed with the Lady Freedborn! When I tell him, Cedric will be most displeased at the disrespectful manner in which you have treated our guest!"
Ashira rushes over the remaining distance to Rigging and begins to check him over to make sure that he isn't injured. Making sure she is overheard, she says "Young Master Rigging, I'm so sorry. Perhaps we should leave this 'shop' and find someplace where the keep has sense enough to recognize someone of your position!"
Bart Friday March 2nd, 2001 11:59:17 AM
Whispering to Lem, Apollo and Bulldog Hmm this is not what I had I mind 1800 is far too much maybe we can talk it down to say 1300. After we examine the grain, check the beer, the sailcloth I can say the quality is not what we expected for an total price of 1800 it is far more 900. What do you think, alright? Or shall we go and search for other shops?
Rigging Friday March 2nd, 2001 3:46:06 PM
Rigging looks down at the frantic shopkeeper and haughtly says, "This is an outrage. I don't have time to deal with you now! We will pay you 1200 gps for the items on the list. You will have the items delivered to our ship by tomorrow noon. If this isn't satisfacory to you, I will not be able to forgive this gross insult. I will have my seconds arrange for a private meeting." To Ashira, "Let's go." To Bart, "Pay him half now and half on delivery." Rigging stalks towards the door.
Legs Saturday March 3rd, 2001 4:54:32 PM
Legs steps out of the shop when the girl is sent with her burden to Susex Street. Once the doors close, he asks her, "Can I give you a hand with that, miss? I used to take deliveries myself."
Smiley Jim (NPC - ADM Janell) Bluff +11 d20+3=10 Saturday March 3rd, 2001 9:56:17 PM
Before Rigging is able to leave the shop, Jim begins to clap and laugh. "Bravo, bravo...I believe you actually had Fredrick fooled there for a minute!" He moves over to put an arm around Ashira, and addresses Fredrick. "I'm sorry Fredrick, but I just couldn't help but put my mates here up to a little practical joke. By the look on your face, I guess it worked."
He turns to face the customers (who are now staring with looks between rage and horror at Ashira and Rigging). "Imagine, pirates being in union with nobles! Ha! Next thing you know, I'll be getting married!" The female customers giggle at the last response, and the other customers return to their shopping.
Jim walks over to a very angry looking Fredrick, and pats him on the shoulder. "Look, to smooth things over, how 'bout we head over to the Red Dragon tonight. I'll buy the first round for you and Basil. What do you think?"
OOC (Roll should be d20+11, so actually is 18)
Ashira d20+1=20 Saturday March 3rd, 2001 10:07:12 PM
(Charisma check=20) The half-elf shows a wide grin and begins to laugh herself. "Mr. Weldon, I'm sorry, I shouldn't have let Jim be such a bad influence on us. I didn't think you'd actually believe our little ruse."
"Listen, it looks like you're very busy today. If you'd like, the lads and I can help you out with deliveries and such. Maybe we can spare you the further embarrassment of having to use that servant girl of yours."
Misty (NPC - ADM Janell) Saturday March 3rd, 2001 10:13:14 PM
Despite the load being obviously too heavy for the young girl, Misty looks at Legs in disbelief. "Oh no sir, I couldn't have you do that. Master Weldon would be greatly displeased if he found out that I had a customer helping me with my duties." Without looking up, she continues following the young man with the disheveled hair.
Legs Saturday March 3rd, 2001 10:59:40 PM
Once the three round this corner, Legs gently says, "I insist. You are strong, but that is heavy. And I'm not a customer - I haven't bought a thing from Weldon's shop. Please, allow me to assist. It would please me greatly, for I need the exercise." He holds out his hand to take the burden, if she allows him. "Is Mr. Weldon a relative of yours?"
Fredrick (NPC - ADM Janell) Sunday March 4th, 2001 8:10:18 PM
At the mere sound of the word "noble", Fredrick's manner changes drastically. His expression changes from that of humility to one of open hostility. For a moment, it looks like the shopkeep is going to strike Rigging down.
Then after Jim and Ashira speak, there is another drastic change of manner. Suddenly, Fredrick begins to laugh as well as the tension in the shop noticably drops. Fredrick slaps Jim on the back. "Jim, you dog, of course I'd be glad to drink some of your money away!"
Fredrick eyes the party over, and notices the well built young men (especially Bulldog!). "Of course I could use a little extra help, especially on a day like today. As a matter of fact, I have some very heavy deliveries that need to be taken care of. But I warn you... don't even think of dropping, loosing, or stealing any of my merchandise, or I'll have Cedric keel haul you when you get back to the Lady Freedborn!"
Bulldog Sunday March 4th, 2001 10:51:33 PM
A smile breaks out across the big fighters face. "Of course we can help out. And there is no need to worry about anything going missing. Ashira, looks like today is another working day after all. The faster we get done. the earlier we can join the fun. lets get going."
Blue Monday March 5th, 2001 12:26:08 AM
The young cleric joins in the deliveries and hoists his share...he wonders why Ari has gone so quiet.
Misty (NPC - ADM Janell) Monday March 5th, 2001 8:39:38 AM
Misty begins to stumble under the heavy load, but no-one except for Legs seems to notice the young girl's plight. As a matter of fact, it is almost as if the girl is invisible.
Misty re-balances the load, and continues on her way. "Sir, please, I beg you, let me finish my chores in peace, or Master Weldon will have to punish me. He is a good master and feeds me and clothes me well. If I weren't so clumsy, I probably would have paid off my debt by now. Besides... see, we're almost to Sussex St. now."
Rigging Monday March 5th, 2001 8:45:43 AM
Rigging laughs along with everybody else. He thinks to himself, "Damn! I blew that one. Will have to keep my noble statis to myself." He says aloud to the shopkeeper Frederick, "Sir I am glad you have such a good sense of humor. Let us get some drinks and discuss the supplies needed for Lady Freedborn. Your son's quoted price is way above our limit. Maybe we can provide some service while we are in town. Their are spellcasters and priests of the Dragon God among our number. Maybe we can help each other in some way."
Fredrick (NPC - ADM Janell) Monday March 5th, 2001 9:09:27 AM
Fredrick splits the groups into pairs, and assigns a couple of deliveries to each pair. He shows the party to the storeroom in the back, which is immaculately clean and organized. To each party, he points out the appropriate items and makes sure that they are packaged correctly.
He turns to the party and says "I assume that you young "nobles" (he chuckles once again) are not very familiar with Fog Island." He makes his way to each pair and quickly gives them directions to their delivery locations. "If you hurry, you might have time for one last delivery before we close shop. After you are finished, return here and we'll all head down to the Red Dragon together."
*Pairs* Ari and Bulldog Lem and Bart Rigging and Appolo Ashira and Blue NOTE: Please roll once per delivery (be sure to include if you have intuit direction, etc) to determine whether you are successful in locating your delivery location or whether you become lost. A DC of 15 or higher will be considered successful.*
Fredrick (NPC - ADM Janell) Monday March 5th, 2001 9:17:58 AM
*slightly in the past* Before entering the storeroom, Fredrick smiles at Rigging and says "Yes, Master Rigging, we can talk about pricing at the Red Dragon. However, right now I need help with deliveries. I hope this kind of work is not below a man of your station." Fredrick begins to bellow at his own joke, and takes a few minutes to compose himself before entering the storeroom.
Rigging d20=16 Monday March 5th, 2001 11:27:29 AM
Rigging looks at the deliveries to be made and at his partner Appollo. "Comon Appollo, Let's go." Rigging shoulders his part of the load and heads out. He starts following Frederick's directions, amazed at the clarity of them. He notes landmarks so he can find his way back. Having noticed Appollo's depreased state lately he decides to try to find out whats wrong with him. In a bright voice he says, "Beautiful day but you don't seem to be enjoying it. What's the matter. Don't like the company?"
Blue d20=14 Monday March 5th, 2001 4:06:35 PM
Blue orginizes his share of the deliveries and shoulders the pack. He wanders over to Ashira and in a shy voice says " Ahem...do we turn left or right once we leave the shop?...other then that I think I know how to get there."
Bulldog the Mighty d20=20 Monday March 5th, 2001 4:52:54 PM
Hefting the heavier packages over his shoulders, he awaits Ari's lead. As he has no idea where they must go. "Ari, you remember those directions? I missed them." He shrugs as if to say 'sorry.'
Ari d20=20 Monday March 5th, 2001 7:05:59 PM
(sorry for delay, left private post. Seems not accessible for time being)(roll was for gather information (figured this was close)). Ari picks up his bundles. "I think I can manage". Ari gives Bulldog a smile. Ari occassionally stops to get his bearings, but in due time, they make it to their delivery location.
Walk About (DM Dave) Monday March 5th, 2001 7:09:23 PM
The group splits up, heading in various directions. The day is still young as each pair handles the assigned tasks.
Lem d20=15 Monday March 5th, 2001 7:11:58 PM
Listening to the shopkeeper, Lem takes his half of their load and says, "Well Bart, let's go, seems we're leaving one way or another." Stopping only once on the way to their destination, Lem manages to guide them to and back to the inn without any major difficulties.
Ashira d20=12 Monday March 5th, 2001 7:19:49 PM
Ashira prepares her bundle, hefts it onto her back, and gets ready to head out with Blue. Despite her being to Fog Island before, she isn't quite familiar with the directions that Fredrick gives the pair. "Sorry Blue...I don't think I caught all of those directions either."
Before heading out, she checks with Fredrick and receives more instructions. She thanks Fredrick, and says "Ok, I think I've got it now." Signaling to Blue, she heads out into the beautiful Fog Island afternoon with her traveling partner.
Legs Monday March 5th, 2001 7:33:39 PM
Legs helps steady her load, but will not take it yet, as she is so insistent on doing it herself. "Excuse me for being so forward, but would you mind me asking the nature of the debt? How much more do you have to pay off? Ah - so this is Sussex Street, eh? Tell you what, let me at least help you get the bundle through the door and set it down. I'm impressed you carried it all this way yourself."
A Moment of Silence (DM Jerry) Tuesday March 6th, 2001 10:48:08 AM
...and for a moment, all is silent in The Wold.
Bart d20=3 Tuesday March 6th, 2001 11:57:24 AM
Ok Let's do it Lem, do you know the way? I think it is in that direction (pointing to the opposite direction Lem wants to go)
Misty (NPC - ADM Janell) Tuesday March 6th, 2001 12:40:12 PM
Upon arriving at their destination, Misty accepts Legs kind offer to help her unload the bundle. The young man with the dishelved hair stops a moment to look at Legs questioningly, then dismisses Misty with a wave of his hand.
Misty turns and begins the journey back to Weldon's, rubbing her back as she goes. "Sir, you must be new to this region. I am Master Weldon's servant. My parents are farmers that live on the other side of the island. One year the island experienced a terrible drought, and my parents didn't have enough money to pay for the next year's seed. Master Weldon was kind enough to give them seed in exchange for my service. I am not certain how long my period of service is...you would have to ask Master Weldon or my parents. But one day, I will be free, and then I'm going to join the pirates and become a great fighter one day."
Ashira d20=4 Tuesday March 6th, 2001 12:48:23 PM
Shortly after their departure, Ashira begins to examine her surroundings. After wandering a little more, the pair finds themselves in what can only be described as the "shady" part of town. Several less than reputable looking figures eye the duo over. Turning to Blue, she whispers "Hmm...this doesn't look good. Do you have any idea where we are? I hate to admit it, but I'm lost."
Blue d20=13 Tuesday March 6th, 2001 5:44:12 PM
The young cleric first looks to the left...them looks to the right. "nope...don't have a clue...I think maybe if we go back the way we came hopefully we can find the shop and try again". Blue appeals to Lemtrovex quietly under his breath. "Ahhh...we better get a move on, some of these guys are makin me nervous". With that he heads back the way they came at a stiff gait.
Appolo Tuesday March 6th, 2001 6:55:25 PM
Appolo lifts his bundle and says, "Let's go, the sooner we done the better. You have the directions, right??" And then answering Rigging's question, "No, it's the situation, and Wynd's death still bothers me. Nice day though. You know you had the shop keeper on the run. Why didn't you press your advantage? If you had we would be done by now, especially if that Jim guy hadn't butted in like that." He follows Rigging out the door and down the street.
Lem Tuesday March 6th, 2001 7:16:05 PM
Shaking his head at his partner, Lem chuckles. "No my friend it is this way we are supposed to go. Now let's hurry. I truly could use a nice mug of something frothy, and I don't mean seafoam."
Legs Tuesday March 6th, 2001 8:39:22 PM
To the fellow with the disheveled hair, Legs returns his stare with a 'what-are-you-looking-at?' glance, and, after Misty steps out of the shop through the door he holds for her, Legs offers, quietly, and with a tone of friendly advice, a quick, "Good sir, my counsel to you is this: Regardless her present station, treat that young woman - with respect." The final two words, however, are said with a carefully emphatic enunciation. He turns and follows after Misty.
"That must have been very difficult for your family during the famine. I suppose it was kind of Weldon to extend credit. Was there enough rain for a decent crop the following year? So, you'd like to join the pirates, eh? Ambitious plans. Dangerous group. Oh, here we've been walking across the city, and I haven't even told you my name. My friends call me Legs." The 6'6" lanky teen has long legs, indeed, and has in recent months sprouted the pale beginnings of a mustache. "Did I hear Weldon call you 'Misty'? Do your parents live far from here?"
Rigging Tuesday March 6th, 2001 11:18:54 PM
Rigging strolls along enjoying the sights, he takes a quick glance to see what they are delivering. "Yeah I had him on the ropes, I get the impression that they don't like nobles around here to much. Might have stepped into it by bringing that up. Don't know if Jim is on our side or not. Still think about that shapeshifter. I have a suspicion we haven't seen the last of him."
A sad look crosses Rigging's face. "I am missing Wynd a lot myself. I was hoping to get closer to her, but she always was aloof. I guess that was for the best. I am sure we will see more of our group die if we stay with the pirates. It is a violent way of life and the odds aren't with us." Rigging shakes off his foul mood. "Here we are. This is where we are supposed to make our delivery. Let's get this over with and get back to the tavern for a beer and a meal. We can't leave Bart alone with Fredrick for long. We will get half of the supplies and pay 2000 gold for them." Rigging adds the last with a wry grin.
Ashira d20=4 Wednesday March 7th, 2001 7:30:21 AM
Ashira follows Blue hoping that he has more of a clue about where they are going than she does, considering that she is hopelessly lost.
She keeps an eye on the people around them and shifts the load on her back to make it easier to throw it off and retrieve her weapons if neccessary. So far, none of the characters make any threatening moves.
Misty (NPC - ADM Janell) Wednesday March 7th, 2001 7:46:25 AM
Misty continues on the way to Weldon's. While speaking with Legs she lowers her head, never meeting his eyes. "Sir, I am not sure why you are interested in a servant like me. Surely my life history is of little interest to you. Yes, my name is Misty, but it is of little importance. Sir may call me what he pleases. And as for my parents, they live in the farming district, just a few miles from here."
Suddenly Misty's countenance brightens a little. "Is there something that Sir wishes me to do for him? Sometimes Master Weldon hires me out do odd chores for other people. I am strong, and am able to perform many different tasks."
Rond Wednesday March 7th, 2001 9:05:05 AM
As Ari and Bulldog travel, "I am happy that so many children from the village are safe. What do you think of the way things have gone?"
Speedy Delivery (DM Dave) Wednesday March 7th, 2001 7:52:49 PM
Ashira and Blue somehow manage to get their goods dropped off, and the gang eyeing them does not approach. Soon, the two are heading back to Weldon's, where they meet up with everyone else, who have made their deliveries in record time.
Ashira Thursday March 8th, 2001 8:51:17 AM
Finally making it back to Weldon's, Ashira turns to Blue with a look of relief on her face and says, "Thanks Blue, that could have been close."
She looks around the store and spots the rest of the party. "I trust everything went well? Blue and I almost ran into a spot of trouble, but it was nothing we couldn't handle. So, I don't know about you lads, but I could use a large glass of nice..." She stops mid-sentence, concern written on her face. "Where's Legs? I know he left shortly after the servant girl, but he should be back by now."
Bulldog Thursday March 8th, 2001 10:51:26 AM
After greeting his friends he asks " So what kind of deal did we end up with, or are we still working on it at the tavern ? What say you Rigging"
Blue Thursday March 8th, 2001 12:58:05 PM
"I am just glad to be back...some of those guys back there were lookin at me like I was a herbed pork chop...speaking of which, I am about ready for one myself, maybe a little glass of something cold might be nice as well".
Ari (not Rond) (no I"m not having an identity crisis, like some characters) ( ;) ) Thursday March 8th, 2001 4:56:11 PM
Once Ari returns, he looks to see if there are any more deliveries. Then he'll ask Frederick, "Is there anything more we might do?"
Fredrick (NPC - ADM Janell) Thursday March 8th, 2001 5:18:16 PM
After a few moments, Fredrick emerges from the back of the store. He heads over to the assembled group with a smile on his face. "Well, I'm impressed. It would have taken that worthless servant of mine at least twice as long to make those deliveries, and she probably would have broken something. I have a few more packages to deliver if you'd like, but..."
Fredrick's face falls, as he watches several figures rush in through the front door. All totaled, there appear to be about 15 scruffy looking characters. The last man in shuts the shop doors and blocks them as he watches to make sure that no-one enters after the gang. Ashira and Blue recognize some of the men from their recent trip into the "shady" part of town.
Snake Eye (NPC - ADM Janell) Thursday March 8th, 2001 5:29:06 PM
A large unkempt man with a scar that runs across a ruined eye heads toward Fredrick. "So, these are your delivery people, eh Fredo. Where's that delightful little wench that you used to have? It seems that you forgot to mention the rules to your new employees."
Turning to the group, he sneers and says "See, you pay us 10 gp per delivery, and me and my boys here make sure that you're safe. Fog Island can be a very dangerous place if you don't know the right people."
His eyes never break contact with the group as he makes a hand motion to the men behind them. "Now, I'll just be collecting my toll if you don't mind." The men fan out behind him, removing various and sundry weapons as they move.
Legs Thursday March 8th, 2001 6:49:33 PM
"Well, as long as you plan to call me 'sir' - I'll call you 'lass.' Well, yes, as a matter of fact, there is something. Since I'm new to these parts, I could use a guide to get to know the island. I'll speak with Weldon about it, eh, lass? That is, if you're willing to help a stranger such as I in this way."
As they return, Legs notes, "So, here we are." He goes to open the door for Misty.
Lem d20=19 d20=16 2d6(3+5)+4=12 Thursday March 8th, 2001 7:21:36 PM
Not waiting for them to attack, Lem leaps right in and attacks the leader. Using improved unarmed attack (no attacks of opportunity against him) and flurry of blows, he strikes twice (AC 21 and 18 for a total of 12 points damage).
Appolo Thursday March 8th, 2001 8:10:50 PM
After delivering the packages, and returning to the shop, Ari is just about volunteer us again, when a local street gang enters the shop and demands tribute. Appolo quickly produces two daggers and falls back silently. Saying to Rigging, "I got your back." He will play defense and only attack targets of opportunity, or to support Rigging. He thinks to himself, 'We can't even go shopping.'
Bulldog d10=8 d20=12 2d6(6+3)+6=15 Thursday March 8th, 2001 8:29:08 PM
(ooc roll was for ht pts 8+3 con bonus =11)(3rd level)
Keeping his eyes on Snake, Bulldog steps forward to make room for himself, and pulls forth his greatsword. "Dangerous place it is. Step forward to receive your payment then." (2nd roll to hit 12+8=20 for 15 dam if needed.)
Rigging d4=2 d4=4 Thursday March 8th, 2001 9:10:39 PM
Rigging puts his hands in his pockets (retrieving some spell components) and laughs a loud and hard belly laugh. "You have got to be kidding! We just faced a Quad, 3 priests of Ga'al, magic, and 100's of Ga'al controlled townspeople and peasants. We fought and killed our own parents. You think we are going to be scared by you? Run for your lives and never bother our friend Frederick again... or die." Rigging then casts his sleep spell on the enemies closest to him, trying not to include any allies in the spell.
Ashira Thursday March 8th, 2001 9:21:15 PM
Looking slightly bored, Ashira takes her time drawing her short and long swords. She yawns and then addresses Snake Eye. "Really, I think my friends and I will do just fine without your protection." She moves in front of Blue and continues speaking "But, it's been a pretty boring trip to Fog Island so far, so if you want to provide us with a little entertainment, I won't mind."
Smiley Jim (NPC - ADM Janell) Thursday March 8th, 2001 9:25:48 PM
Jim moves in beside Ashira and begins to chuckle also. "Really boys, there have got to be easier stores to hold up than this one! Why don't you go out and bother someone's grandmother. Can't you see we're busy here?"
Weasel Thursday March 8th, 2001 9:28:01 PM
Hearing the approach of Legs, the short, stocky man shouts to Snake Eye, "We're about to have company."
Bart Friday March 9th, 2001 8:03:56 AM
"Your agreement is with that damsel and maybe Frederick here, and not with US. WE won't pay for protection - does it look like WE need one?" Bart says as he draws his sword and dagger.
Ari Friday March 9th, 2001 8:42:08 AM
"I am really not in the mood to get strangled. Demanding tribute, for some reason, does not go over well. You mull your decisions, as you sit for a spell. So, without further ado," Ari casts entangle.
:) (PHB not on me, please make best grouping/use of spell. ;) )
Blue Friday March 9th, 2001 8:44:06 PM
The young cleric steps back when Ashira steps forward and draws his quarter staff while summoning energy to cast. Blue starts his prayer and finishes with a chant, "By the power of Lemtrovex the dragon over beasts...Qhaa feh". He casts summon monster to bring forth a celestial hound (the hound will remain for 3 rounds). The stocky youth gestures with his free hand towards the man standing closest to Snake eye for the hound to attack.
Legs Saturday March 10th, 2001 1:19:14 AM
"Hmm, Misty," Legs says, forgetting for the moment that he was going to call her 'lass,' "the door is stuck, or locked. Would Weldon have closed early today?"
Route (DM Dave) Sunday March 11th, 2001 11:36:12 AM
With a flurry of activity, the heroes overwhelm the thugs. Lem's blow fells the leader with a smash to the head and groin, and the sudden manifestation of magic from three of the other party members quickly incapicitates three others (Sleep), none (Entangle doesn't work in this environment), and drives two others back fearfuly in the sudden presence of the Hound (Summoned). Menaced, the remaining flee through the front of the store, plowing over Legs and Misty (roll vs. DC 15 to avoid being trampled).
Appolo Monday March 12th, 2001 11:27:57 AM
Upon seeing the morons break and run Appolo says to Rigging, "Good, maybe now we can get something to eat and drink." He begins to wander around the store checking things out.
Rigging Monday March 12th, 2001 1:30:46 PM
Rigging looks around for some rope and says, "Hey lets tie these three up and question them." He looks at Frederick to see if he is happy or upset about our quick victory.
Ari Monday March 12th, 2001 3:40:14 PM
Mumbling under his breath, Ari considers how he can make the spell work properly. Looking around, he'll help tie up, heal, and help clean up, wherever possible.
Legs d20+3=14 d20+3=22 Monday March 12th, 2001 4:00:08 PM
As the door opens, Legs sees the hordes pouring forth. He moves to protect Misty from their hasty exit, but isn't quite nimble enough to keep the thugs from running over himself (DC 14). (2nd roll to protect Misty, DC 22.)
Lem Monday March 12th, 2001 6:02:45 PM
::Grinning:: Geesh, I hate it when someone attacks you and they don't have the stomach for finishing what they begin. "Now Frederick, I do hope those weren't friends of yours?"
Bulldog Monday March 12th, 2001 6:16:56 PM
The big fighter breaks out in a hearty laughing fit, as the racketeers run for cover. "Well that should teach them not to mess with the pirates of the Lady Freeborn." Sheathing his weapon, he gets ready to leave with the others. "That made me hungry. Let's go eat." Slapping Lem and ASr on the backs as they go.
Ashira Monday March 12th, 2001 7:58:55 PM
Ashira retrieves some rope from a basket on the floor, and begins to help tie up the unfortunate thugs. After all the villains are effectively incapacitated, she walks around to the heroes, slaps them on the back, and says, "Well done mates... I don't think we'll see the rest of those boys in the near future!" She begins to laugh... "They didn't even know what hit them!"
Misty (NPC - ADM Janell) Monday March 12th, 2001 8:05:17 PM
"No sir, Master Weldon didn't mention anything about closing early...".
As she is speaking, a flurry of activity occurs. Before she knows it, Misty is thrown into the side of the building by Legs as several figures dash out into streets. As she regains her balance, she rushes over to where Legs lies in front of the shop doors.
"Oh, sir, sir, are you all right? Let me help you up. I wonder where all those people were going in such a hurry." Misty looks down at Legs with concern etched on her face as she offers a hand to help him up.
Fredrick (NPC - ADM Janell) Monday March 12th, 2001 8:17:23 PM
After the short confrontation, Fredrick continues to stare at the hogged tied and gagged Snake Eye for a few minutes in disbelief. Then, as if awakening from a dream, Fredrick slowly gazes at each of the party as a large smile breaks out on his face.
He begins to laugh as he approaches Rigging. "Well, who would have thought that a bunch of nobles would come in so handy!" He turns to Lem and adds, "No young sir, needless to say, these are NOT friends of mine. As a matter of fact, these characters have been harassing several of the shops around town. The town guards have posted a reward for their capture, but no-one has been able to lay hands on them so far. I dare say that the captain of the guard will be quite pleased when he sees what you caught!"
Turning to Bulldog, the middle-aged shop keeper grins and says, "Yes, all this excitement has made me hungry too. Why don't you nobles take your catch over to the guard station, and Basil and I will join you over at the Red Dragon after we've finished closing shop." Fredrick begins to walk through the store and tidy things up for closing.
Smiley Jim (NPC - ADM Janell) Monday March 12th, 2001 8:22:14 PM
After the prisoners are bound, Jim beams down on the adventurers. "Very nicely done! I don't think these boys will be going anywhere any time soon! My, my, all this action has made me thirsty. I don't think we should waste any time. If you will follow me, I'll show you to the guard station, then it's off for some well deserved ale!"
Law, Order, and Ale (ADM Janell) Monday March 12th, 2001 9:00:38 PM
As Jim begins to lead the party (dragging the captives behind them) out to the streets, they encounter Legs and Misty. After a brief explanation of the confrontation, Misty hastily excuses herself, and heads back into the shop in order to attend to the Weldon's needs.
Jim invites Legs to join the parade as they lead their captives toward justice. After traveling down a few twisty roads, the party arrives at a large, stark gray stone building with no windows. A guard dressed in a gray uniform with a red sash watches with curiosity as the party approaches the doors.
Once they reach the doors, Jim briefly explains the situation, and asks to see the captain of the guard. The party and captives are escourted into the building and asked to wait in a small room with benches lining the walls.
After a few minutes, a tall neat looking man with a military appearance enters the room. He looks down on the prone forms of the captives with mirth. "So... this is the infamous Snake Eye gang, eh? Doesn't look that menacing to me!" Looking at the bruises on Snake Eye's face, the captain adds "Although, I'd hate to run into your party in a dark alley! I'm not sure how you managed it, but well done!"
The captain signals, and three guards enter the room and remove the captives. "Now, if you'll excuse me for a moment." The captain leaves, and returns shortly with a small bag. "As you probably know, there was a reward out for these characters." He jingles the bag. "200 gold pieces... not bad for a day's work! Now, you must pardon me, I have many more criminals to track down." He hands the bag to Jim and exits.
Once the criminals are in custody, Jim leads the party into the streets once again. After winding down a few alleys, the party finds itself in front of a very weathered looking wooden building. The sign out front shows a large red dragon drinking from an ale mug.
"Well, here we are... the Red Dragon. Looks like we've managed to get here before the crowd." Jim holds the door open for the party. After entering, Jim finds a table large enough for the group and sits down. While waiting for a waitress, Jim turns to Rigging, hands him the reward bag and says "I believe this belongs to you mates."
Rigging Monday March 12th, 2001 11:19:14 PM
Rigging takes the sack of money and hefts it. He looks around to his friends and says, "Guys, I think I know of a good use for this money. All of those kids are doomed to becoming virtual slaves. I am feeling bad about killing their parents, dragging them away from their homes, and now basically enslaving them for years. We should try to set up a home for them. What do you think? Looking at Frederick, "Before we get to far in our cups. Let's settle our bill. Looking at the service we did for you tonight between the deliveries and stopping the shake down. I think 1200 gps is fair for the supplies we need. We will transport it to the ship."
Blue Tuesday March 13th, 2001 12:48:15 AM
When the ruffians fled the store the hound remained on their tails gnashing at any part that was sticking out or moving to slow...Blue concerned that the spell driven beast may run amuck in town chases after the fleeing mass of teeth and tattered clothes. As they are about to round a corner the young cleric skids to a stop and focuses his energy and calls out "By the power of Lem over beasts...desist". The celestial hound blinks out dropping the well chewed shoe that was in it's jaws to the cobble. Feeling a wave of relief the stocky lad becomes aware of the stares. He stands up straight and brushes the dust from his cloak and starts to whistle. He casually turns on his heel and starts to walk away... then breaks into a run heading back towards the Inn bound troupe.
Legs d6=1 Tuesday March 13th, 2001 2:31:17 AM
Legs pulls his face up from the ground, dirt ground in to a light abrasion on his cheek.[Rolled d6 for trampling damage - just 1 hit point.] He grins up at Misty. "Looks like you kept your balance better than I, lass. Are you okay, kiddo?" He accepts her hand up, and brushes himself off. "Them?" he responds to her question about the retreating gang. He shrugs his shoulders. "Maybe Weldon outnegotiated them."
After they learn of what happened inside, Legs thanks Jim for the invitation. "Tell you what, I'll see if I can join you all a bit later. The Red Dragon, right? I'll get directions. Need to talk to Weldon about something, first. Go on without me for now. Since I won't be with you, I figure Rigging can handle things." He gives his shipmates a wink, then heads on in to talk with Weldon.
Lem Tuesday March 13th, 2001 8:12:39 AM
once inside the inn, Lem orders only water to drink. In fact the entire time you have known him, even on ship, you have never seen him drink anthing alcoholic.
Appolo Tuesday March 13th, 2001 2:36:52 PM
Appolo sits down at the table, trying to maintain a certain space around himself. He then orders steak, eggs, potatoes, fresh vegetables and fresh milk, along with water. He does so in polite, quiet and rather monotone disinterested manner. He then sits back and relaxes, resting his hands in his lap. He just watches and listens, checking out his surroundings, looking for other rogues, thieves and anyone who might be paying a little too much attention to him and his shipmates.
Ari Tuesday March 13th, 2001 4:16:46 PM
" I do not know that we'll be able to set up a home for them. But we might want to see if we could get them enrolled in a trade, or have someone look out for them. But I think some of this is going to depend upon how often we'll be able to come back to the island, or not."
When the group makes it to the Inn, Ari will look over the alcohol selections. Wine is his first choice, beer otherwise. He'll also order a large helping of food (anything not salted, and some fresh fruit).
Fredrick (NPC - ADM Janell) Tuesday March 13th, 2001 4:26:07 PM
Fredrick is busy cleaning up shop when Misty enters followed shortly by Legs. Upon their enterance, Fredrick glances up for a moment, fearfull that the thugs have returned. Relief fills his face when he sees that it is Misty and Legs. "Misty, it's about time you got here. We're closing up shop early and heading over to the Red Dragon. Finish tidying up the store and make sure we're ready for business tomorrow. Oh, and no need for supper tonight... we'll be dining out. Just clean up that pig sty you call your living quarters."
Turning to Legs, Fredrick says "Weren't you one of the members of that party of "nobles"? Yes, yes, I recognize you now. Is there something that I can help you with? If it's business, I hope it can wait until tomorrow. As you've probably heard, it's been a busy day." He calls Basil to him, and waits for Legs' response before heading over to the Red Dragon.
Smiley Jim (NPC - ADM Janell) Tuesday March 13th, 2001 4:37:06 PM
"Let's see here, a deal's a deal, I'll take care of the first round." Jim polls the party as to what they care to order, then reels off the list once the waitress arrives. "I've got to say, mates, it's been a long time since I've seen a fight that was that short! Did you see the look on those poor blokes faces when the hound appeared out of thin air? I think more than one of them will have to go home to change their skivies tonight!"
He laughs a heartfelt laugh, and then quickly downs his mug of ale once it arrives. Patting the waitress on the rear end, he says "It's been a long day...I think you're going to have to keep the mugs coming!"
Ashira Tuesday March 13th, 2001 4:50:08 PM
Ashira listens intently while Rigging and Ari state their opinions as to the fate of the rescued children. Her face takes on the serious expression that normally resides there as she speaks up. "Rigging, it's true that the lives those children face aren't going to be pleasent. However, as Ari mentioned, I don't believe our reward will be enough to compensate building an orphanage. There is a temple of Lem on this island. Perhaps we can talk with the priests and see if we can make some arrangements to take care of the children."
Ashira begins to smile once again as the ale arrives. She too downs the mug as if it were water, and seconds Jim's notion. When Jim pats the waitress, she clucks at him in mock disapproval "Jim dear, isn't it a little early to be admiring the help? You usually don't start doing that until all the other women in the bar have turned you down!"
Bulldog Tuesday March 13th, 2001 7:17:29 PM
To Fredrick the impressed "There's no noble blood in this body, my dear shopkeeper. Just of common stock." Traveling to the inn the long way through the captains office make the young fighter even more hungry. Unable to control himself after Appolo list of a string of delectable, Bulldog adds in "I'll two of what he is having" A huge smile crosses his face as he awaits in anticpation.
Blue Tuesday March 13th, 2001 7:20:08 PM
Huffing and puffing from his run Blue enters the Inn and heads over towards the others and grabs a seat beside Ashira. When he catches the waitress's eye he orders a large cold mug of lemonade or water if lemonade isn't available. When there is a break in the conversation he asks "has Basil arrived yet?", craining his neck to see if he sees the shopkeeper's son.
Rigging Tuesday March 13th, 2001 8:47:24 PM
Rigging looks thoughtful for a few minutes after placing his order for steak and vegatables. "Ashira, How can we get our hands on some land? We wouldn't need much. Maybe 10 acres. We are all young and strong. We could make some longhouses and a barn. I think we could recruit some of the other pirates to help. Many have started to care for the kids as well. We would have to find a couple to help guide and care for the kids but many of the older ones could help. If we could get some land, and we are willing to part with some gold, we can do this."
Ashira Tuesday March 13th, 2001 10:09:02 PM
While waiting for the next round to arrive, Ashira mulls over Rigging's suggestion. "Hmm...Rigging, I'm not a regular around here, so I'm not sure where one would go to buy land. But I think there's a flaw in your plan. What you're suggesting will take more than the five days we have left on shore, and I don't think the Captain will want to give us more shore leave for social work. Don't get me wrong, I would like to help the children out, but I'm not sure if that is the way to do it. Besides, once the children grow up, what will they do with their lives? At least by going into servitude, they have a chance of picking up a trade or making favorable contacts. Not all servants are treated as poorly as Misty."
Hot, Fresh, Now (ADM Janell) Tuesday March 13th, 2001 10:24:03 PM
After a few moments, the waitress arrives with the food and a pitcher of ale. She smiles and winks at Bulldog while placing the double order in front of the growing young man.
Ashira pours herself another mug of ale, and orders the lobster and shrimp platter. Jim pipes in that he would like the special of the day and also pours himself more ale.
After making sure that their are no more special requests, she heads back into the kitchen to place Blue's order for lemonade.
A silence falls over the table as those who ordered food dig in, while others continue to partake of a liquid diet. Even though the food is served on cracked and chipped plates, and isn't very appetizing to look at, it is probably some of the best tasting food the party has had in the past few years.
After another brief period, the waitress arrives with Ashira and Jim's orders, and makes sure that the party is supplied with sufficient ale. There is still no sign of Fredrick or Basil as of yet.
Legs Wednesday March 14th, 2001 3:00:59 AM
"That was one of the most enthusiastic exits from a building I have seen in a long time," comments Legs with a smile. "My friends can be resourceful. Yes, we are mates," Legs answers Fredrick. "It may be you can help me, or I you." He steps out of earshot of Misty, adopts a serious face, and says, "I understand the lass here is working off a debt owed by her parents. You were kind enough to give them seed when the drought took their crops. I've learned that life can be very short, so I'll not beat around the bush. Perhaps you will think it is not my concern, but how much seed did you give them, and what is the size of their indebtedness?" He nods briefly to Basil, then returns his attention to Fredrick as he awaits the proprietor's reply.
Appolo Wednesday March 14th, 2001 10:25:36 AM
Appolo quietly and swiftly eats his food and drink, almost inhaling it. He then orders more water and quietly sits listening to the others discuss the children as if they weren't themselves children or at least teenagers. Thinking the whole conversation ridiculous, because taking the children was ridiculous as far as he is concerned, but then no one listens to him anyway.
Ari Wednesday March 14th, 2001 1:54:14 PM
While Ari enjoys his meal, he continues talking, at interval, about the children.
"I think talking with the priests, and asking them to keep an eye on the children, and to maybe tutor the children, might be the way to go. With an appropriate amount tithing, I'm sure they might be interested. Of course, every time we stop by, we'd have to tithe, or see if there was some way that we could get the funds to the local temple here, from wherever we are."
Bart Wednesday March 14th, 2001 2:52:03 PM
"I think we have to give it a try to find a proper shelter for the children. As some of you know I'm also an kind off orphan. So I know what they are feeling.
"Ah waitress an nice steak and bread souns good to me, but first I want some of that good smelling soup off yours."
Fredrick (NPC - ADM Janell) Wednesday March 14th, 2001 4:35:32 PM
Fredrick adopts a serious face as he runs his fingers through his hair. "Ahh...so you've been talking to Misty, eh? It's true that I helped her parents out several years ago. It was a very dry year, and many farmers had a rough go of it. Their daughter seemed to be strong and healthy, so in return for 500 pounds of grain I bought their daughter's services for 10 years. However, I'm beginning to think that they got the better end of the deal. Half the time she's breaking goods, and the other half she's burning dinner. Just between you and I, I've been thinking of pawning her off and picking up someone less clumsy. I've heard that there's a new shipment of young children just arrived... but unfortunately, everyone in town knows how clumsy the wretched girl is."
Fredrick sighs, and a look of curiosity passes over his face. "Tis a sad story all around, but may I ask why you are so interested in Misty?" A large growl emerges from the shopkeep's stomach as he adds "And would it be possible to talk about this later? We really should head over to the Red Dragon before the crowds get there."
Blue Wednesday March 14th, 2001 5:48:48 PM
Blue turns to Ari and says, "I think the temple idea is a good one...the brother's will likely go for it especially if we talk about continued tithing...and I think thats a great idea , us sponsoring those kids. It gives us an incentive for treasure hunting, wow, thats exciting."
When the waitress returns with some of the food and drink order the young cleric asks her for a big bowl of soup with a loaf of black bread, he then asks the group in general, "Have we saved any money for extras? They had a good selection of potions back there and guys, we really need to beef up our healing supplies, especially if we continue to get in these scrapes.
I have an idea to make poultices out of herbs and healing potions, so that I can heal in mid skirmish, I can just jam one in a hole when needed." Blue starts to titter because he thinks that's a good joke, "he he, I'll just stuff one in the gaping hole...ha ha".
Lem Wednesday March 14th, 2001 6:17:29 PM
Drinking only water and eating fruits and vegetables Lem listens and then says, "Even with the priests, life will be hard, possibly harder than they have known. Not meaning to show any favoritism, but do any of you or those you lost have kin among the children saved? If so perhaps you might arrange something for these few.
Rigging Wednesday March 14th, 2001 8:33:56 PM
Rigging listens to the conversation while enjoying his meals. He drinks some wine, wipes his mouth on his napkin and says, "OK, We need to finish our mission first. If we can take advantage of Frederick's good feelings towards us, we might be able to get a good price on the the goods we need. Then we will be able to use the bonus to help the children and possible pick up some healing potions." Rigging notices Appollo sulking. He thinks he will have to speak to him soon and see what is wrong.
Bulldog Wednesday March 14th, 2001 9:21:34 PM
Bulldog Smiles back at the waitress as she delivers the food. As the conversation turns to the rescued children from home. He replies to Lem "My sister is in the group. Not to mention that a few of us know many of the families of this kids. It was a small town, back home, and everyone knew each other. So I would like to see something done to help. .... I did swear to free my people after all." finishing with a serious tone.
Ashira Wednesday March 14th, 2001 10:02:55 PM
Ashira continues to attack the pitcher of ale with fervor. When her meal arrives, she slowly savors the wonderful seafood bounty set before her. She listens to the continued discussion regarding the fate of the "rescued" children. She begins to sober as she thinks of the fate of these poor outcast children... taken away from their kin at such an early age. She thinks back on her own childhood as images of flit through her head. Other children... laughing, playing, but never with her. The adults... so condescending and cold. Why was it that she was always the one on whom the blame was placed? Why couldn't people just learn to accept those who are different? Same thing, all the world over... every group of people sees themselves as being superior to another.
As her thoughts begin to dwell on the darker aspects of life, Ashira begins to retreat inward while increasing the pace of ale consumption. Unconsciously she stops eating halfway through her meal, and begins to play with the uneaten food with her fork.
Smiley Jim (NPC - ADM Janell) Wednesday March 14th, 2001 10:11:58 PM
When his food arrives, Jim begins to partake of the feast. He listens in on the conversation regarding the children with mild interest. After a few minutes, he notices the sudden change in Ashira's demeanor. Suspecting that she is reflecting on her own childhood, Jim suddenly pushes away from the table and heads over to the corner by the fireplace where a minstrel sits cleaning his flute. After a brief discussion with the minstrel, Jim returns to the table while a beautiful tune begins to lilt through the air. He approaches where Ashira is sitting, taps her on the shoulder and says "Pardon me, but I couldn't help but admire your beauty...would you care to dance?"
Dirty Dancing (ADM Janell) Wednesday March 14th, 2001 10:23:39 PM
Ashira and Jim walk out into the middle of the common room and perform a beautifully intricate dance which looks as though it would take years to perfect. Slowly but surely, Ashira begins to smile again as they float over the hardwood floors.
Slowly, more people begin to fill the Red Dragon as dinner time approaches. Lively conversation fills the room, and a few more couples make their way to the dance floor.
The waitress shifts into overdrive as she tends to more and more tables. She returns to the party's table and tends to the requests for food and drink. Overhearing Blue, she smiles and points over to a sign hanging on the bar which says "NO TITTERING".
Legs Thursday March 15th, 2001 1:07:13 AM
"Yes - I know those children. They are orphans from my hometown. Look, Fredrick, my father ran a store similar in some ways to yours. I took deliveries for him, helped out around the place. By the way, people call me Legs. How about if you ask Misty to tell me what needs doing to clean up - then you go ahead on over to the Red Dragon. I'll help her out, make sure everything is shipshape, then join you all later. Maybe we can work out something. What do you think? I'm not so clumsy," he says with a modest smile. "I know you don't know me yet, so I'll understand if you say no, or at least not yet - but a canny merchant such as yourself might be open to even greater prosperity, no? Ask any of my mates whether they think me trustworthy or not."
Fredrick (NPC - ADM Janell) Thursday March 15th, 2001 8:56:38 AM
Fredrick gazes longingly in the direction of the Red Dragon and absently says "Yes, yes, that's fine...just make sure that Misty locks up. Shall I assume that you'll meet up with us at the Red Dragon later?" Fredrick calls Basil to join them, and soon they are out the door and headed to the Red Dragon.
Appolo Thursday March 15th, 2001 2:40:31 PM
Appolo watches as Jim and Ashira take to the dance floor and start dancing, then other couples start to join them. Appolo just watches and decides to order some dessert, and some more fresh milk. {Whatever type of pie there is.} He finds himself feeling slightly jealous of the people on the dance floor for some reason, but Appolo just continues to watch.
Fredrick (NPC - ADM Janell) Thursday March 15th, 2001 6:21:17 PM
Cursing quietly to himself at allowing one of the newcomers to make him so late, Fredrick enters the Red Dragon with Basil in tow. He looks around for a few moments before locating the party's table, pulls up a chair, and seats himself. "Sorry I'm so late, but one of your mates dropped by and was asking all sorts of questions about Misty. Strange, that one. I assume that he's trust worthy?" Fredrick let's the question linger while he looks longingly at the pitcher of ale. When the waitress returns, he orders a mug of ale for Basil and himself, then proceeds to order a leg of lamb with a side of rice. He beams at the party and says "I haven't missed any more action have I?"
Blue Thursday March 15th, 2001 9:38:45 PM
Blue has been somewhat anxious awaiting the arrival of Basil and his father...when they arrive he greets them openly and moves over beside Basil. "Basil, I hear that you are fond of magic...do you know any spells yourself?"
Basil (NPC - ADM Janell) Thursday March 15th, 2001 10:45:49 PM
Following his father into the pub, Basil finds a seat and orders shepherds pie and seasoned potatoes. As Blue speaks, Basil's face glows with anticipation. "No..no, I don't know any magic. Are you a magic user?! Can you show me some of your spells?" Basil begins to stammer on about stories he's heard about spellcasters, his left eye wandering about restlessly as he speaks.
Ashira Thursday March 15th, 2001 10:53:48 PM
Once the song has finished, Ashira (accompanied by Jim) makes her way back to the table, laughing and smiling once again. Spying the newcomers, she grins and says "Glad you could make it, we were beginning to wonder whether we would have to form a search party for you!"
Surveying her half-eaten food, the half-elf once again begins to partake of her feast. Once finished, she begins to attack the pitcher of ale with a renewed zeal.
Smiley Jim (NPC - ADM Janell) Thursday March 15th, 2001 10:59:27 PM
Jim seats himself. "Ah, glad you could join us Fredrick and Basil. As you can see, the fun has just begun. Have you placed your orders yet?" Acknowledging the affirmative nods from Fredrick and Basil, Jim turns to Basil and says "Basil, you're in luck, it just so happens that there are magic users in our midst. Perhaps if you are polite, they will show you a few of their spells."
A Short, Tall Tale (ADM Janell) Thursday March 15th, 2001 11:16:38 PM
The waitress returns in a few minutes with Fredrick and Basil's orders and then stays busy keeping the party satisfied, as well as tending to her other tables. Conversation consists mostly of small talk (spattered with zealous questions about magic from Basil) as the table partakes of their various meals.
Soon, the meals are devoured, ale is consumed, and talk returns to more serious matters. Fredrick re-hashes the tale of the confrontation with Snake Eye's gang for Basil (who, unfortunately was in the storage area at the time), embellishing as he goes. When he is finished, Fredrick turns to Rigging and says "I still can't believe how fast you took care of those thugs...they've been hitting us up for months! I am very much in your debt."
Rigging Friday March 16th, 2001 12:38:04 AM
Rigging casually picks up the pitcher of ale and walks gracefully over to Frederick's side. He smiles and tops off Frederick's ale. "Frederick, We were glad to be of service to you. There might be a way for you to repay us. We need to get the Lady Freeborn refitted and restocked. Our mission is to get that done quickly and efficiently. We could run all over town and out into the countryside visiting farms and other tradehouses, but we would rather deal with friends. How about you give us the supplies we need for lets say..." Rigging pauses apparently doing some figures in his head. "1000 gps even." Before Frederick can say anything, Riggings says, "Wait, I know that is cheap but I am not done. We will arrange transport of our goods back to the Lady Freeborn. I will give young Basil here some magic lessons and testing to see if he has any aptitude for the study of magic. If he does, mabye we can work out an apprenticeship for him." Rigging stops and places an arm on Frederick's shoulder and adds, "Finally I would consider you my friend. Friends watch out for each other and help each other whenever the other needs it. What say you Frederick? Do you desire my and my companion's friendship?"
Bulldog Friday March 16th, 2001 2:07:34 AM
Offhandedly replying to Fredrick's questions of Legs' trustworthiness, Bulldog comments, "Legs, ... as trustworthy as they come. A dear friend of mind he is." The big fighters notices Ashira's withdrawal into her own thoughts. He becomes very relieved as Smiling Jim brightens her mood. Thoughtfully nodding his approval of his great job. Jumping back into Fredrick's conversation with Rigging, "We stick together pretty darn strongly, Fredrick. We do take our friendships with vigor. You may have noticed."
Blue Saturday March 17th, 2001 12:37:51 AM
Blue is glad that Basil is excited about magic, he replies to his previously asked question, " I am a cleric and yes, I use magic...you heard about the magic hound that appeared and helped chase off those bad guys today...well that was my magic at work. I noticed you have a good selection of potions at the shop, can you tell me what kinds you have?"
Legs Saturday March 17th, 2001 2:17:03 AM
"Lass, Mr. Weldon spoke to me about helping you clean up the shop tonight. I worked in my father's store. Looks like someone knocked over this rack of clothes here," Legs says, picking up and reorganizing the jackets for display. "Tell you what, show me what needs to be done out front here, and then I'll get it ready, and you take care of your room. Then, put your best clothes on, and, if you want, come with me, and we'll join my mates at the Red Dragon, and get some food. Sound okay, Misty?" he asks as he puts a coil of rope back up on the wall hook.
Ari Monday March 19th, 2001 8:34:17 AM
When Lem comments, "As far as I am concerned, anyone from my village is considered Kin. I prefer life to be hard, than to lose control of who I am, and what I can do. Because of our choices, and what has happened, I will NEVER leave anyone behind, if I can help it."
As the conversations die down, Ari relaxes somewhat, sipping at his wine. He takes in the conversations around him, and tries to get a general feel of the atmosphere around him. (gather information check?)
Lem Monday March 19th, 2001 7:06:22 PM
Oh I understand, I just meant that perhaps Wynd or your other friend had some kindred in the group that you might help as way of closure with the loss of your friends.
Into the Evening (DM Dave) Monday March 19th, 2001 8:52:59 PM
Misty scampers off to change for the evening meal while Legs finishes up chores around the shop. Over at the pub, it is a relaxing and invigorating time for all. Blue compares notes with Basil on items magical - Basil lets the group know that just about any type of magical potion can be had, for the right price, stating, "We can't really discuss exactly what we have in stock, as it changes quiet a bit."
Meanwhile, Frederick turns to Rigging's conversation, "A friend you may be, but mixing friendships with business will bring both to ruin. One good reason I use slaves, rather than hire friends, is to avoid the heartaches that arise." Seeing your concerned looks, he quickly adds, "All debts are eventually paid, and my workers freed. Don't worry yourselves about that. They walk away with a good set of skills and some money to boot." Readdressing Rigging, he continues, "No, that price is too little. It's a business I run, not a charity, and I'd be selling below cost at that rate. Now, you have been good to me and Basil, that's no doubt, so I will take you up on that offer to transport your purchases, and shave off 300 on the price - so that'll be 1500 gp!" He looks around, pleased.
The feasting continues, with Ashira getting thoroughly into her cups, keeping the barmaids running. The food is excellent, and the music isn't half bad! Something you haven't felt in a long time, a sense of peace, settles on the group.
Appolo Monday March 19th, 2001 10:03:01 PM
Appolo politely excuses himself and heads for the outhouse to relieve himself. As he heads out he takes care to make sure he isn't being watched or followed.
Bulldog Monday March 19th, 2001 10:47:14 PM
Quite happy, now that he has a full stomach, the big fighter leans back to relax abit and take in the conversations. He smiles as Frederic comes back with a firm price for the goods. He thinks to himself that it looks like a little sum of gold will be put into their pockets after all. Life is good. His mood changes a little as he remembers his sister being on board the Freeborn. Being closer, maybe not safe totally, but aleast he will be able to look out for her now. He lifts his mug to toast with his friends "To things coming together. A brighter future and harder work."
Rigging Monday March 19th, 2001 11:47:24 PM
Rigging looks at Federick with visible dismay. He says quietly but loud enough to be heard, "You don't want to be friends." He then sighs deeply. He brightens up and says, "OK Frederick. I understand completely. Doing business with friends can be a pain in the ass.
"Here is the way I see it. We have made difficult deliveries for you in dangerous situations. You knew of the possible danger but kept that information to yourself. The sheriff did say that this shakedown has been going on for a while. We successfully made all the deliveries in record time. Your own words, I will remind you. We then defended you, your son, and your goods from 10 armed and vicious attackers who were demanding gold from you. We attacked using sword and magic in your defense capturing 3 and driving the others away. Here is my tally, 25 gps per pair of delivery persons," he says nodding at Ashira. That should equal 100 gps. My sleep spell used in your defense is another 150 gps. Blue's summoned hound is another 150 gps. Our fighters drawing their weapons and attacking... hmmm. What do you think Bulldog, Ashira. We will make it a round 100 gps. You wanted to originally charge us 1800 gold minus our expenses of 500 gold is 1300. You take care of delivery. It is a shame really. We could have been friends." Rigging sighs and when he sees Appolo heading for the jakes he calls out. "Wait up buddy. There is a rule that you can't take a whiz by yourself you know."
Appolo Tuesday March 20th, 2001 2:44:16 AM
Appolo slows down a bit and looks over his shoulder and drops a dagger in his left hand. Upon seeing Rigging, he slides the blade back up his sleeve and stops a few seconds to wait. Then he continues silently on.
Legs Tuesday March 20th, 2001 3:15:06 AM
Legs continues busying himself in straightening things up, working at getting to know what all they have in the store. He mentally compares prices for things here with the cost of goods in his hometown, in Singer's city, and elsewhere. He didn't really have much of a chance to do any shopping in Ailthmar. He starts mentally working his way through what Fredrick paid for a decade of service from Misty. '*Let's see - 500 pounds of grain... my father sold a ten pound sack of ground wheat for a silver. So, at my father's prices, that would have been ... 50 gold pieces. Of course, seed grain isn't ground... but the price couldn't be too far off that. Oh - but in a famine, it would be more dear, I suppose. Double? Triple? Sevenfold? Of course, the grain cost Father less than that. He told Mother once that it cost him about half what he charged people, and that profit took care of keeping the business going, and feeding us, and such. Fredrick seems shrewd... I think he got himself too good a bargain. Ten years service for fifty sacks of grain? Or just ten sacks of 50 pound bags... Of course, a deal is a deal. But, is it right to take advantage of those who are weak? But then again, they were helped by the grain, surely.*' Legs wonders what Misty's parents are like, and how they are getting along these days. Does she have many brothers or sisters? Are any of them clumsy? Gosh, she sure is pretty, and works pretty hard, too. Wonder what kind of things she thinks pirates do?
"I'm just finishing up here. Are you ready to inspect my work?" the young paladin calls out to Misty. He wipes some light perspiration from his brow.
Bart Tuesday March 20th, 2001 11:50:41 AM
Bart nods when Rigging is talking to Frederick, but frowns his eyebrows lightly when money is charged for drawing a sword. Mmm lert me think we should go for 1400 so we stay in our budget an have all the goods we wanted. No drinking money left, but who cares we still have that money from the streetgang sure we can thake some of that
Ari Tuesday March 20th, 2001 2:18:21 PM
Ari relaxes, as much as a good meal can let one relax. He continues to sip on his wine, taking in the conversations at the table, and around him. He thinks, 'Now is not the time to let loose, we are still doing a job at this point.'
Ashira Tuesday March 20th, 2001 6:16:43 PM
More than just a little tipsy from the excessively fine Red Dragon ale, Ashira is in no mood to haggle. She turns to address Fredrick, "Looksh here Master Weldon, young Master Rigging (insert girlish giggle) is right... we put ourselves through a lot of trouble and hassle to help you out. We don wantsh to rob you, but yoush and Ish know that 1300 is a fair price. I know you won't quite make the profit that you wanted, but sooometimes life is like that. Besides, if you'rrrre nice, maybe we'll through in the delivery after all..." She pours herself another mug of ale as she waits for Fredrick's response.
Misty (NPC - ADM Janell) Tuesday March 20th, 2001 6:27:39 PM
Misty emerges from the back room, and the transformation is breath-taking. Before Legs stands a young woman whose beauty seems to illuminate the darkening shop. Her beautiful hair (now washed and combed) streams down over a tattered, but dignified looking peach colored dress. She walks over to Legs, quietly surveys the now neat and orderly store, and nods in approval. "Thank you for inviting me tonight. You are a very kind man. It is normally improper for a servant to dine at a resturant, but I have a few gold pieces I've earned, and Master Weldon didn't seem to care..." As the comment hangs in the air, Misty looks into Legs eyes (the first time since they've met), and she states in a curious tone, "Sir, I'm confused as to why you are so kind to me. I am nothing more than a mere servant."
Athlemdar Tuesday March 20th, 2001 6:32:07 PM
Listening to the dickering going on and then to Ashira's comments, Lem chirps in, "Actually Ashira, with the capture of Snake's band, I expect that our friend merchant here will make more profit over the long run. If Snake was getting 10 gold each delivery, we alone just saved him 40 gold. At an average of say just 5 deliveries a day and 6 days that's 300 gold saved in just one week.
"Knowing that he is an intelligent man and a smart businessman, I am sure that he took into account how much he was having to pay out to Snake and his men when he prices his goods. It is all in the overhead, right Fredrick?"
Legs Tuesday March 20th, 2001 11:44:30 PM
Legs holds Misty's gaze for a moment as he considers his answer. He turns away then, ostensibly to straighten a row of jars, but really so that she will not see the color creeping up into his own fair cheeks. He speaks, softly, as his hands occupy themselves with this task. "I saw today a young woman clothed in the virtues of humility, diligence, and modesty. Her eyes, though beautiful, are not haughty. She behaves seemly, not in a forward manner. Gratitude, I believe, is an element of wisdom. In the face of hardship, she shows gratitude to her master. She honors her father and her mother. She proves herself both frugal and resourceful. She carries the burden life assigns her without shirking. Such a blend of qualities is rare, her beauty like a flower coming into bloom, her worth greater than a precious jewel."
The young paladin turns more toward her, yet not meeting her eyes. "Misty, I have known the life of a worker, a noble, a pirate, an adventurer, a traveler. In some ways, I care less for a person's station in life, than I do for his - or her - character."
"Misty, you intrigue me. You have worked hard today. Tonight, if you don't mind, I will treat you. I should count it an honor to have you dine with me and my friends." He holds out his arm for her to take, if she will. He says, "I'll pretend to lead, if you'll tell me where the Red Dragon is. By the way, the color of your dress nicely compliments your complexion." He pauses a moment to look at her hair, her face. "You look radiant, if you don't mind me saying so, Misty. We go left up there?"
In the Heat of the Night (DM Dave) Wednesday March 21st, 2001 6:55:06 AM
Legs and Misty make their way to meet with the others with the glitter of stars to light their path.
Meanwhile, back at the Inn, Frederick gets a frustrated look, and says to his guests, "Yes, yes, I know of your value: Perhaps you did not realize that it was I who mainly funded the reward for Snake's capture? Do not forget it was I who directed you to turn in the thugs to the watch to claim your reward!" He takes a long draw on this tankard, before looking up under bunched eyebrows, "I am paying for your meals and lodging tonight. I've offered you an at-cost rate for your supplies. I've entrusted one of your own to close up my shop, left alone with one of my servants. Pah!" He throws up his hands, and getting up from the table calls over the barmaid. Handing her a bag of coins, he states, "This should cover your evenings expenses. I've lost my appetite. You have shamefully disregarded the gift extended to you, and I will have nothing further to do with you." Spinning and stalking away, he states, "Bring 1400 gps in the morning to the shop, and Weldon will deliver your supplies."
Smiley Jim (NPC - ADM Janell) Wednesday March 21st, 2001 9:01:42 AM
Jim watches as first Fredrick, and then, reluctantly Basil depart the Red Dragon. Then he turns to the party, all smile, and says "I must say, well done mates! You played Fredrick like a well tuned fiddle. Not only did you get him to lower his price by 800 gps, but he threw in the food, lodging, and delivery too! Mind you, he'll think twice about doing business with your crew anytime soon!"
Ashira Wednesday March 21st, 2001 9:19:14 AM
Looking very relieved after the departure of Fredrick and Basil, Ashira rolls her eyes and says "Finally...I thought that old windbag would never leave!"
She smiles at Blue as a familar song lilts through the air and says "Would you care to dance young man?" Ashira gingerly rises from the security of the table, walks over to Blue, and offers her hand.
Rigging Wednesday March 21st, 2001 9:25:43 PM
Rigging sits back and orders more wine. "Oh well, I am glad we are getting the supplies but I wanted the extra funds to help the kids." His mood brightens and as he follows Appollo to the jakes, he calles to Ashira, "Save a dance for me!"
Bulldog Wednesday March 21st, 2001 9:32:18 PM
Seeing some of his friends making for the dance floor, the big fellow leans back to watch. Quite happy to keep his big feet under the table instead of on someone else's toes.
Blue Wednesday March 21st, 2001 11:30:37 PM
The blushing cleric stammers out "Iii... t'would be my honor mmmmadame." The lad bows his stocky frame to the poised hand with a light kiss... then takes the slim hand gently and turns to the dance floor. As the couple engages the music Ashira can hear Blue counting the steps under his breath, "1,2,3,4...1,2,3,4." What the boy lacks in skill he makes up for with enthusiasm, "1,2,3,4...1,2,3,4"
Ari Thursday March 22nd, 2001 1:01:45 AM
Waiting for a moment when everyone is back at the table Ari asks, "Are we on free time, then, till tommorrow morning? I'd like to check out more of the town, and see what there is about this place."
A Row with the Ocean
Vacation (DM Dave) Thursday March 22nd, 2001 6:04:07 AM
The evening continues on in a pleasant manner, and Rigging and Ashira manage several songs together before Weasel, one of the ship's crew, comes into the Inn. Going over to the group, he informs them that they are needed back at the ship at sunrise, at the storemaster's request.
The evening passes and Frederick's funds are well-used. The next morning, a little bleary-eyed, the group manages to make its way down to the beach, where work is still progressing on the Lady Freedborn.
Cedric is sitting over at the netting supply shack, speaking with Jack and watching the crew scrape barnacles from the sides of the Lady Freedborn. Jack nods to you as he strides off, and Cedric turns to you, "Well, pack your things, you're going on vacation. Our man Theo was to have delivered a shipment to us a couple weeks back, but hasn't shown his old mug. Jack is worried just enough that you're going to check on the geezer."
Pointing to an small fishing vessel with a single mast, he says, "Take the Lazy Suzie out to his island and see what the hold up is."
The Lazy Suzie is usually used in spying near the mainland, and the pirates won't dare have anything bigger noticed by the Aisildurian navy near Theo's island. You've heard of Theo: A bald, old man who is very knowledgeable and doesn't have a violent bone in his body. From what crewmembers have said, he's provided invaluable advice to the commanders over the years, along with numerous magical concoctions. Theo lives alone on a paradise of an island, where he spends his time, when not gardening, in his lab studying cures and such.
"Frederick over at Weldon's caught up with me last night and filled me in on the arrangements for the supplies. I'm sending Weasel over to make payment." Cedric directs Weasel to take your coin bags.
"Well, watcha waiting for? Grab your maps and bags and get out of here!" growls Cedric. He looks at you for a moment as he sees your questioning glances.
Rigging Thursday March 22nd, 2001 9:11:53 AM
Rigging sighs and winces at the growls of Cederic. He mumbles, "Not so loud." He heads up to the ship to quickly change clothes, and grabs a short bow and arrows out of the ship's armory. Rigging grabs his spell book knapsack so he can replace his sleep spell while sailing. (occ 2 questions What is Ashira's rank? Does Rigging still have cantrips under 3rd edition rules?)
Bart Thursday March 22nd, 2001 12:17:09 PM
How long do we have to sail to Theos island? We need some supplies, fresh water and some food for example. And, Cedric, where is the island exactly? Do you have a map of it?
(so far as i know all cantrips are replaced by 0-lvl spells)
Appolo Thursday March 22nd, 2001 1:50:46 PM
Appolo heads to his quarters and grabs various things he feels he'll need. Clothes, shoes, shortbow, daggers, rope & grappling hook, thieves tools, and a short sword he has been practicing with. He then heads to the Lazy Susie. As he heads toward the fishing ship, he skips gracefully and silently along with his pack and seems to be in a better mood.
Ashira Thursday March 22nd, 2001 6:15:14 PM
Head pounding with the waves on the shore, Ashira boards the Lady Freeborn, changes, explains her departure to Illanta, fetches Zeke, Hermes, and Ripper and a few other supplies. Then, she returns to Cedric, hands him a bag with various coinage, and says "Make sure that Weasel picks up my supplies from Weldon's as well." She boards the Lady Suzie, and lets the back and forth rolling motion of the sea ease her headache.
When Rigging boards, she looks over at him and says "Well, it was fun while it lasted, but here we go again!" Noticing his grimace, she reaches in a pouch, and withdraws a tiny wad of material that looks vagely like seaweed. She hands it to Rigging, and says "Here, looks like you could use some Gillyweed. Tastes like guano, but should take care of your headache."
OOC (After dancing with her last night, Rigging couldn't help but notice the four swords tattoed on her right shoulder. Rigging, you naughty boy!)
Blue Thursday March 22nd, 2001 7:45:33 PM
"Hey, we are going to sea, great...and to see Theo, maybe I can get some healing supplies finally...I wonder if he is willing to teach me a few things?" The young cleric grabs his meager posessions, tops up his water bottle and clambers into the little craft.
Smiley Jim (NPC - ADM Janell) Thursday March 22nd, 2001 10:40:42 PM
Jim accompanies the party back to the docks, and listens as Cedric describes the mission. He smiles, embraces Ashira in a big hug, and kisses her on the check before she enters the Lazy Suzie. "I would love to join you mates on your search for Theo, but I've got some work to do around here."
He winks, turns to Bulldog and Rigging, and says "I'm holding you two personally responsible for this you lady's safety. I want to see her back in the same shape as I left her!"
As Ashira boards, he blows her a kiss. "Try to stay out of trouble little sister!"
Heave To! (DM Dave) Friday March 23rd, 2001 6:31:05 AM
Cedric answers Bart, "The maps and such are already aboard. We should be done re-outfitting the Freedborn in 6 days, plenty of time for you to get out to Theo and back. No don't lollygag - get a move on while the tide is still up, and watch out for those reefs!"
The sun has not cleared the horizon, the lighthouse beam showing the safe exit from the harbor still shines brightly.
Legs arrives as the group is heading to the Lazy Suzie. A calm air is about him. With hand-clasps and hugs, he takes his leave of his friends, stating that he has decided to stay on the island, at least for now.
The group gets the fishing vessel underway.
[All cantrips in the 2nd edition are now 0-level spells in the 3rd. I need skill checks for navigation and such while you are piloting the vessel...what, you do have skills in this area, right?]
Rigging d20+3=22 Friday March 23rd, 2001 1:52:29 PM
When Rigging gets back from the ship with his belongings and supplies, his companions notice him chewing the bark Ashira gives him grimacing the entire time. He puts his hand on Legs shoulder and says, "I know she was pretty, but are you sure you want to stay here? Settling down this early in life is crazy. Too much to see." Rigging gives Legs a quick hug and says, "Good luck." He then boards the fishing vessel and starts looking at the charts, sun and tides. "C'mon guys! We need to catch the tide or you will be rowing." (Knowledge check for navigation Aced!)
Bulldog the Non-navigator Friday March 23rd, 2001 9:55:25 PM
"We'll be back to see you soon enough." As he waves goodbye to Legs. Then turns to smiling Jim "We'll keep an eye on Ashira for you. No worries there, but I think Rigging may overdo it , if you know what I mean." He smiles as he boards and whistle as he works. "another fun sea cruise" The big fighter is in a grand mood as they get underway.
Lem d20=6 Saturday March 24th, 2001 10:33:00 AM
Folowing along with the others, Lem too gets on board the smaller vessel. "Why do I get the feeling that this little 'vacation' is not just a walk through the woods? Let me know what I can do to help with the sailing of this vessel. What boating skills I have learned I have just learned since I joined you. There was no need to know about boats at the Abbey.
Blue Saturday March 24th, 2001 11:49:51 AM
Blue stows his gear forward, removes his cloak and raps it around his belongings and wedges his staff between his pack and the hull. He encourages other mates to tend forward and aft lines in preparation to shove off and then moves to the mast and frees up foresail sheets and does the same for the mainsail. He checks to see that all the cleats are free and then stands ready for the order to raise sail
Legs Saturday March 24th, 2001 7:26:34 PM
Legs answers Rigging, "Didn't say I'm settling down." His face at first is serious. Then, a smile works its way to the surface. "Let's just say - I'm recruiting for the pirates. Lem's strength be yours, Rigging."
He gives Bulldog an affectionate punch to the shoulder - with just enough force to be memorable, knowing how tough his friend is.
After helping to push the Lazy Suzie off from the docks, Legs raises his voice. "Farewell till next we meet, all! I shall not fail to keep you each in my prayers! Yes, even you, Appolo!"
Ashira d20+7=11 Saturday March 24th, 2001 10:21:56 PM
Blowing a kiss back to Jim, Ashira shouts out "Ha! You're the one that had better stay out of trouble!"
She looks at Rigging and Bulldog, flashing a serious face. "By now, you two better know that I don't need any looking after!"
Ashira waves goodbye to Legs, and wishes him luck. She stows her gear, and assists with whatever needs to be done to get the vessel to sea.
Bart Sunday March 25th, 2001 4:13:49 AM
Bart stows away his belongings, and with a quick look he inspects the ship's galley (if there is one) and supplies. He then goes to deck and, not a navigator himself, he aids Blue with the sails.
And Away We Go! (DM Dave) Sunday March 25th, 2001 11:31:59 AM
The group skillfully navigates out of the harbor and into the broad expanse, tacking southeast according to the maps provided. The Lazie Suzie is a 50 feet long by 15 feet wide small keelboat, equipped with single sail and four oars. From the charts, it looks to be a 3 day voyage out to Theo's island.
The first two days are uneventful, with beautiful weather and flying fish to enjoy. Skills are brushed up on, and the larder isn't half bad.
Shortly after dawn of the third day, things get interesting, as the the waters churn from a tremedous tempest. However, the skies are clear, and the wind is moderate! The ship rocks violently in water that stands calm only a few feet away from the edges of the boat.
Bart Sunday March 25th, 2001 11:39:20 AM
Ahh ... this will spoil the soup, no hot breakfast today! What is happening? He grasps for his sword and runs to the deck, a clear day, no strong winds! "Is a beast rocking the boat?" he says when he is trying to look down in the waves.
Ashira d20+7=24 d20+7=8 Sunday March 25th, 2001 2:34:21 PM
Sighing as the weather in the immediate vicinity becomes turbulent, Ashira looks at Rigging with a half-smile on her face. "What is it about this party that attracts trouble? First we can't even go shopping, now we can't even go a few yards on a calm sea without running into problems!"
Turning to the rest of the group, she says, "Well, I wouldn't be much of a ranger if I didn't recognize that these seas are not behaving naturally. So, either we've got a beasty to deal with, or this is spell caster territory. Any of you magic users got any ideas, or should we just hunker down and hope for the best?" While she is asking the question, Ashira darts around the craft trying to make it as sea-worthy as possible during the current conditions.
(ooc, 1st roll for nature lore to determine if this is a beast, 2nd roll for profession (sailor).)
Bulldog Sunday March 25th, 2001 9:30:35 PM
Being knocked about the fighter grapples for a handhold to steady himself. Pulling forth a javelin, as he looks about for a beasty target. "I thought things were going too well." The big fighter scans over his friends to see if everyone has stabilized for what is to come. Quietly adding, 'wish Legs was he here' he already misses the steady Paladin.
Rigging d20+3=10 Sunday March 25th, 2001 11:40:32 PM
Rigging looks baffled and confused by the unnatural weather. He heads to the tiller to try to lead us out of the froth. He yells, "Try to tie yourselves off. We don't want to lose anybody!" Rigging then follows his own advice quickly tying himself to the tiller with about 20' of slack. He struggles a bit in the rough weather but finally succeeds.
Ari (aackk) Monday March 26th, 2001 12:36:06 AM
To Legs, "Well, this would seem to take care of us worrying about the children. You keep an eye on things here, then."
Ari collects all his gear, and boards the boat.
Ari does his best to help with the boat, which is to say, that the best he can do, is either pull an oar, or point in a direction and say 'go'.
Commenting to Ashira, "We rarely ever get a moment of peace." Ari proceeds to prepare for whatever comes next.
Ari Monday March 26th, 2001 12:40:06 AM
[OOC to the group: Did we decide how the money has been split, for the criminals, any delivery fees or tips, and the difference from getting the equipment?! Or did it all get pooled together in order to support the children?]
Appolo Monday March 26th, 2001 7:28:44 PM
Appolo quickly ties himself to the mast and continues to work the sails in order to keep the ship under power and moving into the waves. He seems to very calm as the ship is tossed, and not the least bit worried.
Boom (DM Dave) d8+5=13 Monday March 26th, 2001 8:59:40 PM
A methodical booming sound is heard from the belly of the ship, which reverberates throughout the hull. Looking over, neither Bart nor Bulldog see anything in the waters surrounding the boat.
Rigging Monday March 26th, 2001 10:16:27 PM
Rigging yells to his companions, "Are we being attacked!? Have we run aground? Blue check our depth!"
Appolo Tuesday March 27th, 2001 12:20:56 AM
Appolo yells, "I'll go below and check to see if we are taking on water." He unties ties himself and heads below to have a look around and if necessary grab his stuff.
Arislan Tuesday March 27th, 2001 1:12:08 PM
Ari will cast Guidance on himself, muttering "Guide us Lem". If not, Ari waits, to see how he can help.
[OOC: I'm not sure we're missing something for spell casters. On a character sheet that I have, I see it lists a DC value for my 0 and 1st level spells. Do I need to roll this everytime I do a spell, or is this only whenever there is the possibility of being distracted?]
Bart Tuesday March 27th, 2001 4:13:05 PM
"This pisses me off, There must be something down there!!!" He looks for an large boom or something like that. He will try to poke it under the boat.
Ashira Tuesday March 27th, 2001 6:11:56 PM
Having just about enough of excitement for at least a month, Ashira is not amused. A snarl on her face, she scours the ship for a harpoon. Upon locating what she seeks, Ashira turns to Rigging and says "I've had enough of this... I'm going to check things out with Apollo." She races below deck, and checks for damage.
Lem Tuesday March 27th, 2001 7:37:12 PM
Unsure about what to do and unable to really help, Lem tries his best to keep out of the way and help when asked.
Blue Tuesday March 27th, 2001 7:55:50 PM
Responding to the command Blue grabs the knotted, weighted rope and after one twirl over his head to get momentum launches the weighted end over the gunwale and into the depths. As he feeds out rope he wedges his feet into the floor boards to gain some stability in the pitching craft. The lad waits for the rope to go slack indicating the bottom. He is a little concerned that some big fishy may think he is trolling and take a bite.
BOOM (DM Dave) d8+5=8 Tuesday March 27th, 2001 10:01:36 PM
Ashira and Appolo go below deck, and are greeted by the screams of wood as the pounding continues unabated. The hull is holding, barely.
Blue's line immediately gets a bite upon hitting the water (make DC 17 check to maintain hold of line - add strength bonuses). Meanwhile, Bart's proddings under the boat meet nothing but water, but is being visciously jerked from his hands (make DC 17 check to maintain hold as above).
{OCC to Ari: The DC check for spells is what an opponent would roll to resist the spells effect.}
Rigging Tuesday March 27th, 2001 11:20:51 PM
Rigging is confused and concerned. He yells again. "Blue are we aground?"
Bulldog Tuesday March 27th, 2001 11:41:47 PM
Holding his position in the center of the boat, the mighty fighter waits out the storm. He watches as Ashira races downstairs. "Call out if you need me down there, Ashira."
Blue d20+2=4 Wednesday March 28th, 2001 10:43:22 AM
When Blue's line breaks the water, it feels like it comes alive, immediately taut, then it runs. The lad's grip was light and the heavy jute rope flees through his fingers. He makes an attempt to grip and lean against the weight, but he cant bind the line. The rope is gone... Blue stands with some disbelief, frozen with his scalded hands reaching in front of him, his eyes glued to the place on the gunwale where the rope disappeared.
As if from a distance he hears Rigging's voice. He responds with an unsteady tone, "Aground - I think not - this is a living force."
Bart d20+3=16 Wednesday March 28th, 2001 10:53:13 AM
"Wha...aaat (losing pole) the heck is going on!?! Something must be under the boat!!"
"Lem - find a bow and shoot some arrows into the waves."
Meanwhile Bart will look for a harpoon or another pole with a sharp end.
Ari Wednesday March 28th, 2001 2:34:49 PM
[thanks for the answer]
If Ari can notice, he'll jump to try to help either one of the people losing their equipment ( ;) ).
If not, he'll say (also said after above actions, if allowable), "maybe a change of course could be accomplished."
Ashira d20=2 d20+4=24 Wednesday March 28th, 2001 3:22:17 PM
Racing back up top, Ashira reports her findings to Rigging. "She won't hold up much longer under these conditions. We've got to find out what's going on. I hope I'm not making a mistake here, but if we just let this thing tear the ship apart, we'll all be in the water soon."
Ashira strips down until she is mostly modest, but unencumbered by clothing. Those close enough to notice, and not distracted by the fervently pitching ship, find her bluish-green tinted skin eerie, yet alluring. She sorts through her pouches and removes a small pink and yellow shell necklace and ties it tightly around her neck. Retrieving the harpoon, she tells Rigging, "Watch out for my stuff." Not waiting for a response, she braces herself and jumps into the still waters a few feet out from the ship.
OOC (d20=2 for Spot, d20=24 for Swim.)
Lem d20-8=11 Wednesday March 28th, 2001 7:18:48 PM
Lem ever the one to try and be helpful looks around for a bow even though he knows not how to fire one. eventually he gets it together and loaded he leans over the rail and lets loose. (Ac 11)
BOOOOOM (DM Dave) d8+5=10 Wednesday March 28th, 2001 9:24:18 PM
Ari is unable to act quickly enough to catch the equipment pulled into the ocean.
Lem's arrow plunges into the water, with no apparent effect. Ashira dives in soon afterwards, with weapon in hand. At about the same time, a splintering noise is heard below deck.
From the depths, Ashira spots her dolphin companion Taker, following the vessel from a distance. Around the vessel itself, nothing can be seen, except for a pair of glowing-green orbs (about 6" in diameter) a few feet from the hull.
Appolo Wednesday March 28th, 2001 10:27:33 PM
Upon finding out the ship is under attack, Appolo quickly heads for his quarters and grabs his stuff and then heads quickly back upstairs. He runs over and puts his stuff in a life boat. He then runs back downstairs gathering food, water and various supplies. He is obviously preparing to abandon ship.
That's when a loud crash and splintering noise is heard from below. Appolo yells, "Time to abandon ship!!" Heading for the life boat.
Ashira d20=3 Wednesday March 28th, 2001 10:47:15 PM
Ashira blows on the pink and yellow shell, indicating for Taker to come to her. Then she lets loose with the harpoon, trying to nab one of the orbs, but failing miserably. She curses silently to herself as a hole forms in the ship's hull.
OOC (Don't know the modifiers for harpoon, but positive that 3 is not a hit.)
Ari Thursday March 29th, 2001 12:41:19 AM
Ari cautiously heads below, to try to check out how badly damaged the ship is. "I will find out how badly damaged the ship is."
Bart d20+6=23 d10+4=10 Thursday March 29th, 2001 1:55:46 PM
Seeing he can't do anything on deck Bart rushes below deck to the galley grabbing his chain, sword, blanket and a barrel of drinking water and all the other supplies he can handle. Back on deck he throws all in the small boat.
If the boat is still floating, and not sinking too fast, he will go down again taking his sword with him. If he sees anything he tries to attack it (hit ac 23 for 10 damage).
Rigging Thursday March 29th, 2001 5:07:49 PM
Rigging fingers tighten around the tiller until they are white. He screams, "Appollo Bart, get below decks and check on damage. Try to shore it up. Let's try to save this boat. Whatever can sink this boat will make kindling out of the lifeboat! Bulldog Strip down and arm your self with daggers. Tie a rope around yourself and go over the side to see if you can help Ashira. I going over too." Rigging is already tied off. He kicks off his boots. Pulls out his main-gauche and another dagger and dives in after Ashira
Lem Thursday March 29th, 2001 7:23:26 PM
Lem makes with the quick packing of all their things, packs and all in the smaller life boat and then stands at the ready to launch it if necessary.
Appolo Thursday March 29th, 2001 8:36:07 PM
After securing his supplies in the lifeboat, Appolo says, "Come on Bart, let's see what can be done to try and save this ship. We'll need tools, wood, canvas, nails and pitch and tar. Hurry we don't have much time. Lem we'll need your help too."
Bulldog d20=1 Thursday March 29th, 2001 8:44:20 PM
Heeding Rigging's orders. Bulldog strips down to his underthings. Taking a moment to restrap the greatsword to his back, before grasping two daggers and making the jump into the water. Moving towards the underneath of the boat he looks about. (rolled a 1 for swim check str bonus need to be added +4)
Living Waters (DM Dave) d20+7=25 d8+5=13 Thursday March 29th, 2001 9:10:44 PM
Some of the crew begins rapidly filling up the lone rowboat sitting on deck, while others head below deck or into the ocean.
Ari discovers the ballast compartment flooding rapidly.
Underwater, Ashira and Taker can now make out a hole about 1x2 foot in the bottom of the boat. The harpoon flies harmlessly past the orbs, which move away from the ship and toward Ashira.
After a moment, an old aquatic elf's tale comes to mind: Things of the deep known as 'Live Water'. In all the stories, only items of power seemed to touch these beings.
A cold fist of water pounds at Ashira (13 points of damage - make Reflex save for half due to Aquan nature).
Up on the ship, the turbulent waters suddenly cease.
Bulldog and Rigging hit the water in time to see a pair of green orbs near Ashira and a dolphin.
Ashira d20+2=18 Thursday March 29th, 2001 11:40:18 PM
Stunned by the impact of the living waters, Ashira reels backward and collides with Taker. Grabbing his dorsal fin, Ashira slaps him on the side indicating that they should flee.
As the two proceed in a direction away from the ship, Ashira spots Rigging and Bulldog, and, with her free hand, attempts to signal to them that they should return to the ship. She watches anxiously to see whether the two orbs follow her flight.
OOC (Reflex save=18, ought to be enough)
Appolo Friday March 30th, 2001 2:16:13 AM
Heads below grabbing various tools, wood, canvas, pitch and tar. "Bart hurry we don't have much time." "Ari - where's the hole? We'll use the canvas and the pitch to plug the leak and the wood to nail it down. The pitch and tar should make an airtight seal."
lem Friday March 30th, 2001 7:46:45 AM
Listening to Apollo's words, Lem chimes in. "I think it would be best if you first use some canvas from the other side to stop the flow of water a bit - then you won't have the rush of water to contend with." That said, Lem grabs a piece of canvas about twenty feet wide and long enough to reach from the railings of the boat down past the hole, ties ropes to two corners and then ties the ropes to the cleats on the railing. Weighting the other end with whatever he can find, Lem drops the loose end and watches it sink along side of the boat. (This should allow for the pressure of the rushing water to actually make the patch itself by sucking the canvas across the hole allowing the others to work from the other side.)
Bart d20=13 Friday March 30th, 2001 10:57:54 AM
Down below, he looks for a large cloth to put in the hole to prevent that more water is streaming in the ship.
If the water level rises too fast and the current is too strong, Bart suggests that we abandon ship. But if there is a chance to save the ship he takes it.
Blue Friday March 30th, 2001 8:02:55 PM
Blue follows Bart down, locates a bailing implement (bucket, pan, cloth pail, whatever) he starts scooping and climbs topside an empties over the side... down again... up again...
Bulldog Friday March 30th, 2001 10:24:28 PM
Moving towards Ashira, Bulldog notices her turning to flee and signalling for him to do the same. Bulldog turns about and swims to the surface. Grasping at the heaving ship's rail, he grasps it and pulls himself back onboard.
Rigging Friday March 30th, 2001 10:52:51 PM
Rigging sees the situation and taps Bulldog on the shoulder and points up. He then uses his own rope to scamper up the side of the boat. When he gets a leg over, he yells, "Water Elemental! We need magic to fight it!" He then looks to assist both his friends in getting aboard.
Ari Friday March 30th, 2001 10:56:00 PM
Agreeing with Lem, Ari says above the sound of turbulence, "I haven't had time to figure that out just yet, but I'm sure the pressure of the incoming water is too much for us to overcome from inside."
Damage Control (DM Dave) d8+5=10 Saturday March 31st, 2001 9:41:59 AM
Ashira and Taker speed off, and the Living Water moves even more quickly, but back to the ship rather than pursuing the two.
Those journeying into the belly of the vessel quickly discover that the water pressure is too great to be plugged from the inside. Lem's canvas swirls towards the hole from the outside, wadding up and partially blocking the flow.
Bulldog and Rigging make it back to the deck and shout their warning as the creature once again begins its rhythmic pounding of the hull.
Ashira's flight takes her into the depths, where she spots a sunken vessel.
Ashira d20=6 Saturday March 31st, 2001 11:11:26 AM
Realizing that she cannot help her friends without the aid of a magical instrument, Ashira spurs Taker on toward the sunken vessel. She begins to search the ship for weapons, or anything glowing, etc., hoping she can find something magical to aid with the fight against the Live Waters.
OOC (d20=6 for Search)
Ari Sunday April 1st, 2001 11:34:41 AM
"Does anyone know if they've engaged these creatures? I do not think the ship is going to hold up to this pounding much longer." With that Ari works his way to his belongings, and prepares to depart the ship.
Bart Sunday April 1st, 2001 2:33:56 PM
"The water is coming in too fast, we need another sail from the outside!"
"Damn - the monsters are back! Blue, can you do something with your divine powers? My sword is useless against these creautures."
Back on deck Bart tries to place another sail over the hole, imitating the technique of Lem.
Rigging Monday April 2nd, 2001 10:31:00 AM
After helping Bulldog up, Rigging looks for Ashira, concern on his face. "Who has magic weapons!?" he shouts. He then looks around for land to escape to.
Bart Monday April 2nd, 2001 1:58:12 PM
"I have, it's the dagger my stepfather gave me. It's magic but I don't know what you can do with it."
Appolo Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 12:02:18 AM
Appolo continues to work furiously, nailing down pieces of wood around the whole and slopping down pitch and tar cover pieces of cloth over the wood. "Somebody better go play tag with those things and try to keep them away from the ship. Ari I need some more help over here!!" As Ari heads toward his quarters.
Blue Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 12:06:01 AM
"Is it a water creature we are dealing with?" With the question asked, Blue approaches the gunwale and leans over, he shouts into the water in his very best Aquan..."what do you want from us?"...he waits for a response.
Water, Water Everywhere (DM Dave) d8+5=13 Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 5:59:00 AM
Below the waves, Ashira heads to the sunken vessel and begins looking over the wreckage. The boat lies broken in half, with skeletons strewn about. So far, she discovers little else than a few crabs crawling about.
Back up on the ship, the pounding continues while Bart works to duplicate Lem's earlier tactic of dropping more canvas over the side of the ship. Appolo waits below for the pressure to drop enough to begin patching the hull. Ari quickly loads up the little row boat.
According to the navigation charts, it is a least a good day's travel in the Lazy Suzie before you would reach Theo's island.
Ashira d20=2 Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 11:04:06 AM
Frantic and knowing that her friends onboard the Lazy Suzie have little time, Ashira begins to scour through the skeletons. She thinks to herself that this is the last chance she'll have to search through the remains before she needs to head up top and find another means to help her companions. Not being particularly religious, she none-the-less cries out for assistance from any available deity.
OOC (d20=2 for Search)
Appolo Tuesday April 3rd, 2001 3:07:36 PM
"Someone get on the bilge pump!" Appolo yells as he continues to work.
Bulldog (DM Dave) d20+6=17 Wednesday April 4th, 2001 6:07:23 AM
Bulldog will take the Bart's magic dagger, or any magic swords offered, and jump back into the water, swim under the hull, and attack the creature. He hopes to draw it away from the ship before the Lazy Suzie springs another leak.
Bart Wednesday April 4th, 2001 11:41:22 AM
"Bulldog take care!!" Bart shouts when he runs to the pump and starts pumping.
Rigging Wednesday April 4th, 2001 5:01:04 PM
Rigging marvels at Bulldog's bravery and wishes he could duplicate it. He starts to put more sail up to see if they can break free from the elemental's grasp. He looks for any kind of land that might be closer than the island they are heading for. They might need to beach the ship and patch it.
Blue Wednesday April 4th, 2001 5:09:37 PM
The cleric receives no response to his query. He sheds his jerkin and boots and dives over the side. He turns and scans the area around the boat. Blue believes he sees some movement and calls out, projecting his voice underwater the best he can in Aquan, "Why do you attack us? We mean you no harm." Blue prepares himself to cast summon creature if he feels the need for an attack.
Plunging Ahead (DM Dave) d8+5=9 d20+6=20 d8+5=9 Wednesday April 4th, 2001 9:35:40 PM
Ashira commences searching the skeletal remains, not locating anything during the first 6 seconds. Meanwhile, another hole has been smashed into the hull, causing the water levels to rise precariously (the first hole is about 80% plugged at this point).
Rigging, considering the charts, quickly concludes that no land lies closer than Theo's island - some 30 miles away.
Bulldog plunges into the salty brine and slashes at the water surrounding the lower portion of the boat, and succeeds in getting the creature's attention. A column of water connects with the fighter, knocking him into the depths (9 points dmg) and the vessel is temporarily ignored.
Blue's voice received a muffled response ::All who cross this path must perish::
Lem Wednesday April 4th, 2001 9:39:24 PM
Almost spinning in place as he gets people calling for help in all directions, Lem calls down below what do you need from me? More hole covers or pumps or sails or what?
Appolo Wednesday April 4th, 2001 10:19:37 PM
"Shit another hole!!" Appolo yells. "Lem I need your help down here, Ari you too!!" He quickly changes his focus to deal with the new hole.
Blue Wednesday April 4th, 2001 10:51:20 PM
Blue forces a plea to the creature, "allow us to leave and we will not cross your path...we have no wish to offend or threaten you...perhaps we can give a boon". The young cleric's lungs are straining and he kicks to the surface gasping for fresh air.
Ashira d20=9 Thursday April 5th, 2001 9:01:45 AM
Swearing loudly in Aquan, Ashira decides to search one last time, and then return to her companions. Before leaving, if she is unable to find anything interesting, Ashira will attempt to locate a fishing net and possibly a harpoon before returning to the ship.
OOC (d20=9 for Search).
Lem Thursday April 5th, 2001 7:42:36 PM
Hearing the call, Lem heads down in to the bowels of the ship to help where he can.
Rigging d4+1=2 Thursday April 5th, 2001 9:55:14 PM
Rigging puts down the charts in despair. He yells to his companions, "We need to save this ship! Land is to far away!" He looks into the water and casts a magic missle spell at the elemental if he can locate him.
Ari Friday April 6th, 2001 12:43:10 AM
Having gotten all his gear prepped, Ari heads to Appolo's call. "where"
Bulldog (DM Dave) d20+6=13 Friday April 6th, 2001 5:42:21 AM
Encouraged that he actually hit the thing, Bulldog decides to attack one more time (if able) before trying to get away.
Plugging Away (DM Dave) d20+6=7 Friday April 6th, 2001 5:59:14 AM
Blue gets no further response from the creature.
The heroes finally manage to slow the first hole to a gurgle. However, the other hole is freely filling the ship. The whole lower compartment is full at this point, and the ship is sitting low in the ocean as the cabins start to fill.
Bulldog is unable to connect with the creature, but manages to avoid being pounded again.
Unfortunately, from Rigging's vantage point on the surface, the waves and sun's reflection prevent him from spotting the green orbs or Bulldog beneath the water.
Ashira continues searching the wreck, and thinks she spots a sword that doesn't show corrosion on it. A hint of movement out of the corner of her eye turns out to be a huge black tentacle starting to snake it's way from the belly of the wreck.
Ashira d20+2=13 Friday April 6th, 2001 3:20:03 PM
Desperate to return to her friends, Ashira tries to free the sword and return to the ship quickly with Taker. If the black tentacle looks like it will reach her before she is able to free the sword, Ashira will leave it and return to the ship empty handed.
OOC (d20=13 for Initiative if needed)
Rigging Saturday April 7th, 2001 1:01:32 AM
Rigging dashes over to Bart and grabs his dagger. He checks his rope to see if it is clear and unbroken. He says to the other, "Half bail and half of you plug those leaks. I will try to buy you some time. We are to far away from land to lose the ship!" He then dives into the water.
Bart Saturday April 7th, 2001 1:47:21 PM
Bart atempts another try with a big cloth to close the hole in the bottom. It did work the first time...
({thoughts] mmm I think we loose the ship if those creatures stay alive, first kill them and then try to repair the ship.... maybe this was happenend to theo also, no wonder noone has heard of him anymore.....I wait what rigging bulldog and ashira can do, otherwise i will jump in too and fight those creatures)
Blue Saturday April 7th, 2001 1:50:01 PM
The young cleric sees frantic movement on the ship as he fills his lungs for a second plunge. Head down, kicking, his feet drive him back below the surface. He frog kicks down scanning for movement in the murch, listening for any response. He sees Bulldog and some greenish movement. In his mind he utters a curse and a prayer. Focusing his energy and thrusting his hands in front of him he casts summon monster, chanting through bubbles, "By Lem over creatures... Aqua feh." A shimmer appears in front of Blue and a large fiendish squid appears.
Blue focuses his mind and body on the greenishness under the ship. The squid rapidly pumps and glides in the direction of the ship and the green, ready to attack. (The squid will remain for 3 rounds.)
Lem d20+2=16 Sunday April 8th, 2001 2:18:46 PM
Looking at the new hole in awe, Lem sizes it up and grabs a barrel that is as close to the same size as the hole and approaches from the side and then tries to force it in to the gap against the water flow. (Don't know what DC I would need so I will let you decide after the fact. Rolled a 16.)
Appolo Sunday April 8th, 2001 7:58:05 PM
Appolo continues to work ferociously on the second hole. He looks at Ari. "What do you think!? I think Rigging's right - we can't lose this ship! Come on!!" He then redoubles his efforts.
Bulldog (DM Dave) d20+6=23 Sunday April 8th, 2001 9:22:03 PM
Bulldog slashes again at the water creature, trying not to lose his sense of direction as he swims around frantically.
Water Fight (DM Dave) d20+6=9 d20=17 Sunday April 8th, 2001 10:05:21 PM
Ashira manages to yank the longsword and begin swimming upward (with Taker's help) before the dark tentacle reaches her. More tentacles sprout from the opening as she makes her way toward the Lazy Suzie.
Bulldog manages to land another stroke on the Living Water, and elude its powerful punch once more.
Rigging goes to retrieve Bart's dagger, only to discover that Bulldog took it earlier. Lacking a weapon, he stays shipside.
Bart looks around and realizes the only canvas left is up on the mast (will take another round to finish bringing it down, tying it off, and dropping it over the side of the ship). Lem's attempt to plug the hole with barrel is stymied by the incredible amount of water pressure - the sea continues to gush in (most of the lower decks are filled at this point, requiring the crew to hold their breathes while swimming to the hole).
Blue realizes that he will not be able to cast his summoning spell once in the water, so he spends his time adeck calling forth the squid for combat.
Ari Monday April 9th, 2001 9:33:20 AM
"From in here, it looks like we cannot do very much. I think we need someone to work from the outside of the ship to plug the current hole.
"I hear that the creature is not attacking the ship (ooc dm change if I'm incorrect) anymore. We've not heard from anyone that it is impossible to do any harm. I'm wondering whether we should send one or two people overboard to plug the hole, and everyone else join in the battle.
"If you think that might be an idea, I can either help in the fight, where I have some spells that might help, but would take some extra seconds to prepare. Or I can plug holes."
Appolo Monday April 9th, 2001 11:05:35 AM
"Plug the hole first -- won't do us much good to defeat the monsters if we can't save the ship!!" Appolo yells as he tries to catch his breath.
Ashira d20+3=13 Monday April 9th, 2001 3:25:56 PM
As she and Taker race toward the Lazy Suzie, Ashira checks behind her to see if the tentacles look like they are continuing their pursuit. She lets out a silent prayer to any available deity that the tentacles (and their owner) will not continue to pursue once she reaches her friends.
If she is able to reach the Lazy Suzie this round, Ashira will attack the Live Waters with her new found longsword.
OOC (d20=13 for Attack, not sure if there are penalties for being underwater. DM please change as needed.)
Bart Monday April 9th, 2001 5:45:27 PM
No cloth left, the sail?.... no blankets can do the job! So I go down, collect some blankets, tie two ropes and some weight on it and try to cover the hole.
Rigging Monday April 9th, 2001 11:48:32 PM
Rigging doesn't think he can help in the battle so he decides to try to save the ship. Rigging runs over to the waterbarrel and graps the cover. He goes over to the ship's toolbox and grabs a hammer and some nails. He calls, "Ari come with me! I hold and you hammer!" Rigging hands Ari the tools and grabs the lid and jumps overboard.
Bulldog (DM Dave) Tuesday April 10th, 2001 6:12:07 AM
Lungs aching from the strain, Bulldog heads back to the surface for air.
Scrambling About (DM Dave) d20+6=15 d8+5=7 Tuesday April 10th, 2001 8:12:00 AM
The crew continues to work on plugging the remaining leak. Meanwhile in the ocean, Bulldog tries to claw his way to the surface, and is hit by the creature, driving him even deeper (7 hps damage). Ashira manages to make it up to the combat and swings, but fails to connect. Blue's summoned squid attempts to attack, but doesn't seem to be able to affect the Living Waters.
Ashira d20+3=14 Tuesday April 10th, 2001 8:31:52 AM
Determined to take care of the situation at hand, Ashira signals to Bulldog to hand her the dagger. She takes another swing at the Live Waters with the longsword, hoping to end the battle quickly. In the midst of the battle, Ashira asks the Live Waters, "Who assigned you to guard these waters?"
Ari Tuesday April 10th, 2001 8:42:39 AM
Ari jumps in the water with Rigging, and prepares to help out with the nailing of the lid to the ship.
Lem d20+2=7 Tuesday April 10th, 2001 7:39:26 PM
Fighting with every ounce of strength he posseses, Lem tries once again to jam the barrel into the hole and literally gets pushed back to the other side and to the surface of the water.
Rigging d20=18 Tuesday April 10th, 2001 10:20:11 PM
Rigging looks at Ari and nods below. He then dives under pushing the "hopeful patch" ahead of him. He locates one of the holes and pushes the barrel top against it and waves to Ari to start nailing. (Made a successful swim check to haul the cover underwater to the hole.)
Patchwork (DM Dave) d20=13 d20=10 d3=3 Wednesday April 11th, 2001 8:05:01 AM
Lem notices a marked drop in the water pressure as Rigging and Ari get a portion of the hole covered with the barrel lid. The ship is sitting at that critical point where it could either sink or float.
Underwater, Bulldog continues struggling upward, and is ignored while the Living water confronts Ashira and the Squid. Ashira's blow goes wide, and the Squid is ineffectual in touching the enemy.
In response to Ashira's query, the water begins to swirl violently in a counterclockwise motion, forming a funnel within seconds. The squid gets sweep in, along with Taker, each taking damage from the buffeting (3 hps - Ashira, Rigging, Bulldog, and Ari needs to make a Reflex save vs. DC 15 to avoid being pulled in. Failure results in 6 points of dmg this round, except for Ashira, who would take 3 due to her aquatic nature), making it more difficult to swing weapons without endangering the trapped creatures.
Up above, the ship starts to rotate.
Bulldog (DM Dave) d20-2=1 Wednesday April 11th, 2001 8:14:38 AM
Getting turned around, Bulldog manages to swim straight into the vortex, and finds himself getting banged against the dolphin and squid, barely avoiding blacking out (down to 2 hps) while struggling to hold his breath.
Ashira d20=8 d20=11 d20-1=16 Wednesday April 11th, 2001 8:38:12 AM
Ashira attempts to swim out of the vortex, but fails. Taker is also temporarily trapped in the swirling waters. Ashira begins to swear loudly and profusely in Aquan, then regains her composure, and once again attempts to attack the Live Waters with the longsword.
OOC (d20=8, DC Ashira; d20=11 DC Taker; d20-1=16 Attack) Did Bulldog succesfully pass the dagger to Ashira?
Ari d20=12 Wednesday April 11th, 2001 9:13:40 AM
Ari focuses his concentration on trying to get the barrel lid in place. Too late, he notices that he is being pulled further underwater. Ari begins to struggle, trying to climb to the surface.
Rigging d20=8 d6=3 d6=6 Wednesday April 11th, 2001 4:46:44 PM
Rigging is sucked into the vortex and bangs heads with Bulldog. Rigging quickly grabs the rope securing him to the boat and pulls himself back out. Seeing Bulldog confused he will try to get Bulldog to follow Rigging's rope to the surface. OOC Sorry about the 2nd 6 die roll. It was an accident.
Lem Wednesday April 11th, 2001 6:58:48 PM
First noticing the settling of the boat and the beginning of the slow spin, Lem tries to get back to work at the pump, first making sure that the pump's hose/exit is clear of the water.
Shaken not Stirred (DM Dave) d20-1=10 d6=3 d20-1=1 d20-2=18 d20+4=6 d20+4=20 d6=5 Thursday April 12th, 2001 5:36:29 AM
Ashira slices into the Water, followed up with a dagger stroke that fails to connect and cuts past Bulldog as he climbs up Rigging's rope (dagger misses Bulldog).
Bulldog and Rigging both manage to pull themselves to the surface. Taker remains trapped in the whirlpool, while the squid manages to escape (Ari can make a Reflex save vs. DC 15 to try to swim out of the vortex - either attack or escape, but not both are possible). All remaining in the turbulence take 5 points of damage (2 for aquan creatures).
Lem frantically works to clear the vessel of saltwater. And Blue?
Ashira d20-3=16 d20-3=3 d20=8 Thursday April 12th, 2001 6:55:18 AM
Feeling successful after her last attempt, Ashira once again attempts to slice the living waters, taking a swipe with both the longsword and the dagger. Feeling the longsword connect, she calls out to the creature in Aquan, "Enough! There is no point to this combat. All we wish is safe conduct. But if I have to kill you..."
Meanwhile, Taker once again attempts to escape the whirlpool, but fails yet again.
OOC (d20-3=16 Attack longsword; d20-3=3 Attack dagger; d20=8 DC Taker)
Ari d20=9 Thursday April 12th, 2001 7:15:52 AM
Ari continues to tumble, temporarily losing sight of what is up, and what is down.
Ari mutters a short prayer,
"Lem, protect my friends, for I fear I may not be of any help."
Appolo Thursday April 12th, 2001 11:12:06 AM
Appolo is oblivious to anything but trying to plug the whole and save the ship.He is conyinuely coming up for air rasting and then diving back down toplug the whole anyway he can think of.
Bart Thursday April 12th, 2001 12:10:33 PM
"Abandon ship!!!!!
"Lem help to get the small boat into the water."
Bart starts to launch the small boat, readying the small sails. He will wait with rowing and sailing away until the others are back on the surface or when he thinks the vortex is too strong to row and sail away from it.
Blue Thursday April 12th, 2001 1:15:06 PM
Back aboard the seemingly doomed vessel Blue struggles for strategy to help himself and his friends...from this vantage point Blue cannot tell what his squid is doing, although judging from the apparent destruction of the boat and the growing vortex it seems the squid is having no favorable impact. Blue's shoulders drop...he feels defeated, helpless as he watches his comrades struggle to fight this mysterious force...the boy grabs a pot that floats by on the rising water and leans of the gunwale and starts pitching water over the side as fast as he can. He sets his jaw and mutters a prayer, "shinning lady help us, for we are surely doomed".
Rigging d20=16 Thursday April 12th, 2001 4:16:55 PM
Rigging climbs up on board and sees Bart manning the lifeboat. "Bart! Get out and start bailing! I am going back for Ari!" Rigging dives under the water looking for his friend. Made a swim check if needed
Lem Thursday April 12th, 2001 5:48:02 PM
Still below decks, pumping his hardest, Lem keeps an eye out to see if more water is leaving than coming in. If he seems to be making any headway he keeps pumping. if it appears to be a losing battle, Lem heads up the ladder.
Appolo Thursday April 12th, 2001 8:42:55 PM
Appolo upon hearing Bart yells, "Bart get down here and help me. Whatever is attacking us will just go after the small boat as soon as it hits the water. Besides we're too far from land. Hurry!!' With that, he dives back down to continue to plug the hole.
Bulldog (DM Dave) d8+4=12 Thursday April 12th, 2001 9:58:10 PM
Heaving with exertion, Bulldog pulls himself over the significantly lower railing of the ship. Seeing Bart, he yells in unison with the others, "Bail the boat, don't bail out! We'll never make it on the high seas in that little thing!" He downs his last potion of healing, feeling significantly better, and proceeds to help fling out water with the others.
Good to the Last Drop (DM Dave) d20=5 d6=4 Thursday April 12th, 2001 10:07:41 PM
The hole plugged enough to reduce the flow to a trickle, the group is able to focus more on getting water tossed out of the ship.
Down in the depths, Ashira manages to connect once again with the Water creature, but her dagger attack misses, nearly hitting Ari who is hurtling past in the wrong direction.
Those trapped in the vortex take another 4 points of damage (half for Aquans) and then the swirling abruptly dissipates.
Ari d20=8 Friday April 13th, 2001 3:06:10 AM
Ari tumbles about for a few more seconds. When the swirling stops, it doesn't take long for Ari to figure out which way is up, and he starts to head for the surface. (ooc assuming it will take this next round to get to the surface. Let me know if it will take longer)
Lem Friday April 13th, 2001 9:49:46 AM
Pumping as hard as he possibly can, Lem is heartened by the small signs of progress.
Ashira d20+4=12 d20+1=9 d20+1=7 Friday April 13th, 2001 9:51:37 AM
Thankful that the vortex has dissipated, Ashira looks around to see if she can spot the Live Waters.
If the Waters have disappeared, then she will head back up to the ship.
If the Waters are still present, and appear to be ready to attack the ship (or herself) again, then Ashira will attack with longsword and dagger.
If the Waters are still present but do not seem willing to attack either the boat or Ashira, then Ashira will say in Aquan, "Wise decision." She will then swim back up to the ship.
OOC (d20=12 for Swim, d20=9 Attack longsword, d20=7 Attack dagger)
Appolo Friday April 13th, 2001 4:34:18 PM
After slowing the flood to a trickle, Appolo crawls out of the bottom of the ship, finds a relatively dry place on the quarter deck and collapses, completely soaked and completely exhausted. He lays down on his back and passes out.
Blue d20=20 Monday April 16th, 2001 2:34:43 PM
Blue is so focused on pitching water over the side at first he doesn't notice Appolo come from below decks, but when the young man slumps to the deck, Blue hears him. The thick boned cleric quickly moves to Appolo's side and scans him for injury. Then, under his breath he thanks Lemtrovex for his grace and asks for assistance to aid his friend. Blue then lays his hands upon his exhausted comrade and uses his healing powers to refresh and restore. The lad can feel much energy pass from himself to the fallen friend.
Bart Monday April 16th, 2001 3:25:19 PM
All right, back on pumping and throwing water over board, hope we will stay out of the vortex.
Rigging Monday April 16th, 2001 10:06:58 PM
Rigging finds Ari under the water and helps him to the surface. He climbs aboard and yells, "Keep bailing. We need to reduce the weight of the ship." He tries to get the boat moving on course again and keeps an eye out for Ashira.
Appolo Tuesday April 17th, 2001 4:50:38 PM
Appolo comes to looks up at Blue and says, "Thank you. Now go help the others. I'll just lay here and rest for a while."
Sea Sinister (DM Dave) Tuesday April 17th, 2001 7:02:21 PM
Ashira sees the pair of glowing globes head down into the depths, toward the ancient shipwreck. Aboard ship, efforts are made to keep the ship above the waterline and get it underway. Unfortunately, all canvas has been used in hole-plugging, leaving only oars as a method of propelling the vessel.
Rigging Tuesday April 17th, 2001 10:08:33 PM
Rigging says, "We need to move the boat now. I will work the pump. Ari, Bart, Bulldog, Blue will row. Lem will work the tiller. Appollo you are on break. You get 15 more minutes and then you take the tiller. After another 15 minutes you pump, and then row. Everyone get it? We will row for 2 hours and then reevaluate our situation. If we can make different repairs, then we can get the sails back up. Blue do you have anyway of summoning a creature that maybe could tow us?" Rigging keeps a look out for Ashira and patch materials.
Ashira (DM Dave) d20=3 Wednesday April 18th, 2001 5:00:00 AM
Seeing the direction the glowing balls are going, Ashira swims to the surface to warn her friends, "Hey guys, we're about to have a bigger reception if we don't skidaddle." She takes some rope and tries to make a harness for her and Taken to pull the ship with.
Bulldog (DM Dave) Wednesday April 18th, 2001 5:02:46 AM
Bulldog leans into to the oars, giving it everything he can. He starts up a sea chant to help keep everyone going, "Down by the sea, see the wee folk..."
Ari Wednesday April 18th, 2001 7:28:27 AM
Ari sits down to pull on the oars. As he sits he comments, "Do you think Blue or I to be on break first? Since we can do healing, as we travel?"
Bart Wednesday April 18th, 2001 5:01:22 PM
Row, row, rowing boat rowing on the sea...
Lem Wednesday April 18th, 2001 6:41:59 PM
Relieved to be relieved from the pumps, Lem makes his way to the tiller and braces himself for a handling a recalcitrant ship.
Blue Wednesday April 18th, 2001 7:44:42 PM
"I have wasted my summon monster spell for the day unfortunately. I have nothing else that could help to propel the ship except my stout back." With that response Blue grabs an oar and uses his considerable strength to help move the floundering vessel.
Uplifting Experience (DM Dave) d20=18 d20=5 d20=20 d20=16 d20=16 d20=16 d20=1 d20=14 Wednesday April 18th, 2001 10:23:49 PM
The heroes put their backs into it as they struggle to get out of the area of the attack. Ashira struggles in getting the harness put together.
Immediately, the air becomes cloying, leaving your lungs heaving for breath. The placid waters immediately erupt all around the ship as huge midnight tentacles thrust up around the Lazy Suzie, raising her to the sky. Somehow, she lands rightside up, most of the water in her belly now disgorged. All hands manage to maintain position.
A cry is heard, and looking aft, you see Bulldog wrapped in one of the huge (200' long) tentacles as he sinks beneath the waves.
After the disappearance of the nightmarish creature, the air loses its grip in your lungs.
Ashira (DM Dave) Wednesday April 18th, 2001 10:31:43 PM
Looking at the creature, and remembering more from the legends told by her father, Ashira curses under her breath. Ducking her head underwater to verify, she comes back up and announces, "The sea has claimed its victim for our passage. Best we move before it claims another." With that, she gives up on the harness and helps to row the (now considerably lighter) boat as fast as possible, asking Rigging, "Still got those sea charts?"
Ari Thursday April 19th, 2001 12:32:33 PM
Visibly shaken by the event. Ari offers up a prayer: "Lem, if that is the end of our friend Bulldog, I hope he finds peace with you."
Blue Thursday April 19th, 2001 2:23:54 PM
"NO... NO... NOOOOO!" the stricken cleric screams. Blue throws down his oar and leaps to the gunwale. He hears Ashira's claim of Bulldog lost... his mind struggles to comprehend. Mindlessly he sinks to the floorboards and stares vacantly into space. More softly now he continues, "noooo, no."
Rigging Thursday April 19th, 2001 10:49:08 PM
Tears course down Rigging's face. He stumbles over to Bulldog's oar and starts pulling. "C'mon - we need to get out of here." Rigging checks and says, "Yeah the charts are ok. I have the way memorized anyway."
Lem Friday April 20th, 2001 10:27:02 AM
"Um Rigging, Ashira -- one of you want to make sure I'm pointing us the right way before I head us out to sea?"
Bart Friday April 20th, 2001 12:34:31 PM
"May he rest in peace. And let these creatures rotten in hell."
Mission: Locate Theo
Black Mood (DM Dave) Friday April 20th, 2001 12:41:56 PM
The Lazy Suzie heads away from the scene of turmoil, everyone heaving on the oars. Half an hour later that, exhausted, the heroes must let up on their pace. Bearings are taken, and a new course is set. Work is done to ease the slightly leaking hole, and some of the canvas is retrieved to make partial sails, easing the burden somewhat on the rowers.
It isn't until mid-day the next day that Theo's island is spotted. That evening, you locate a dock with a small yacht floating next to it and a foot path heading through the vegetation into the interior. The island is roughly circular in shape, about 1/2 mile across at its widest point.
Rigging d20+3=19 Friday April 20th, 2001 4:19:54 PM
Rigging scans the area for a beach. He says, "We need to beach this tub to patch it correctly. Anybody here have carpentry skills? We can use the dock for now, but I am not sailing this tub back until it is repaired." Rigging expertly sails the craft to the dock without even a bump. (made sailing roll)
Blue Friday April 20th, 2001 4:26:01 PM
As they dock, Blue jumps ashore and makes fast the moorings. As he stands, he turns and scans the island. "Nice place, I wonder if they have any bananas?" The young cleric grabs his cloak and quarter staff and heads down the dock towards the path.
Bart Saturday April 21st, 2001 12:21:16 PM
"Let's search for Theo."
Lem Saturday April 21st, 2001 3:01:45 PM
Helping to beach the boat or dock it depending on what is decided, Lem steps on to the island and looks around for any signs of recent visitation.
Ari 2d8(1+6)+1=8 Sunday April 22nd, 2001 2:51:10 AM
"I think before we do much of anything, we should just rest and heal, and give Theo time to know that we are here, and that we are not here to attack him."
With that said, Ari casts a spell. His color improves somewhat as you stand watching. Seemingly not satisfied, Ari casts another spell. Once again, his color improves.
Raft (DM Dave) Sunday April 22nd, 2001 7:06:32 PM
Looking around, Lem notices a raft bobbing up and down on the other side of the dock area, with a person prone across it, arm dangling in the water.
Rigging and Ashira recognize that the Lazy Suzie will need to be beached for any meaningful repairs to take place.
Blue and Bart head down the pier and onto the path into the jungle.
Ari successfully casts healing on himself.
Lem Sunday April 22nd, 2001 7:28:51 PM
As Lem works his way carefully on to the raft. he calls out. Umm Hey Guys, I hope its not true but I think I may have found Theo. What did he look like again? Lem will inspect body for life signs.
Ashira d20+2=11 Sunday April 22nd, 2001 7:58:18 PM
After diagnosing the situation with the Lazy Suzie, Ashira turns and motions to Ari. As she closes, Ari can see several nasty looking contusions that were not obvious to the casual eye. Speaking in whispered tones, she says, "You wouldn't mind casting one of those healing spells on me would you? I'd feel a lot better heading into unknown territory once some of these wounds were taken care of."
Looking over at Rigging, she says, "Well, now is as good of a time as any to beach the ship."
Upon hearing Lem's cry, Ashira pulls out her newly acquired longsword and heads over to the raft. As she peers into the vessel, she readies herself to attack, should the form inside prove hostile.
OOC (d20+2=11 for Attack)
Rigging Sunday April 22nd, 2001 11:12:08 PM
Rigging stays on the ship and keeps a look out. He watches the shoreline and the ocean for possible attack. He readies components to his spells so he will be able to cast them more quickly.
Blue Monday April 23rd, 2001 5:06:14 AM
The young cleric hears the commotion on the dock about the raft and stops and turns to see what is going on. When he sees that they have found a body, Blue heads back to see if anyone needs his healing abilities.
Investigating the Body (DM Dave) Monday April 23rd, 2001 7:26:48 AM
A female with pointy ears and coppery red hair is lying face down on the raft, apparently dead or unconcious. Next to her are a pile of equipment, including a worn studded leather jacket, a bow and quiver, and a scythe. From the redness of her skin, she's been stranded at sea for some time.
Bart Monday April 23rd, 2001 1:48:53 PM
Bart follows Blue back to the dock, when he sees the raft with the body in it. He runs to the dockside and jumps into the water to bring the almost(?) lifeless body back on land.
Appolo Monday April 23rd, 2001 1:59:06 PM
***This post removed as covers actions resolved earlier***
Rigging Monday April 23rd, 2001 3:12:09 PM
Rigging keeps watch, but grabs a waterskin and heads over to the castaway.
Lem Monday April 23rd, 2001 7:17:07 PM
Being very careful to not to be caught unawares, Lem looks for any breathing and then nudges the weapons out of the lady's reach.
Ashira Monday April 23rd, 2001 11:55:00 PM
Comforted by the nearness of her companions and feeling the urgency to help one of her distant cousins, Ashira sheaths her longsword and rushes over to the shore when Bart brings the body. She quickly examines the elf and determines her status. If the elf is still alive, Ashira will shout over to Blue and Ari, "You two, get over here and help this one out!" If the situation is more urgent, then Ashira will remove her healing potion and administer it to her fallen kin.
Blue d8=3 Tuesday April 24th, 2001 2:05:46 AM
The young cleric works his way through his companions to the prone female. He immediately checks for signs of life. As he touches her skin he starts to run healing energy into her weathered frail body. If he senses any response he casts heal light wounds (1d8=3). "We need fresh water!" he calls out.
Just Add Water (DM Dave) Tuesday April 24th, 2001 4:44:05 AM
You (barely) detect signs of life, and Blue's healing does seem to help, but lack of water seems to be the biggest issue for this stranger, with her breathing still ragged and dry.
Her eyes squint open.
Valanthe Tuesday April 24th, 2001 10:55:31 AM
With great effort, Valanthe manages to open her eyes. As she looks up at the sky, she wonders if she's dead. She draws breath and the pain reminds her that she is not. Then sees somebody out of the corner of her eyes. She turns her head and gazes upon Blue, but all she sees is a blurred face. Her dry lips move, but no sound comes out. Eventaully she manages to say, "W...Where am I?"
Bart Tuesday April 24th, 2001 12:08:14 PM
Seeing the state she is in, and now in the capable hands of Blue, Bart will go back to the ship to get some fresh water for this lady.
Ari Tuesday April 24th, 2001 1:49:58 PM
Addressing Ashira, Ari says, "I too was pretty beat up, from getting caught in that whirlpool. I have used up my minor healing for now. Maybe Blue can help out for now."
Stranger found:
At the other's cry, Ari will come over to assist with healing of the stranger. Seeing that the person is alive, Ari lets Blue control the healing process.
Lem Tuesday April 24th, 2001 6:44:44 PM
stepping aside to let the healers in to work, Lem heads back to the shore looking for any other sign of habitation.
Ashira Tuesday April 24th, 2001 6:45:59 PM
Shocked at the sight of another elf in these parts, Ashira speaks with the stranger as the others administer to her needs. As she speaks in Elven, astonishment sounds in her voice. "You are on an island in the region of Aisildur. How did you manage to get this far...I thought the barrier prevented any of your kind from entering the region. Where are you originally from?" She waits for the young lady's energy to return before she probes her with any other questions.
Appolo Tuesday April 24th, 2001 6:46:05 PM
After the death of Bulldog Appolo becomes withdrawn and sullen. He continues to do his job but that is all. Then they finally make landfall and it is determined that they need to beach the ship in order to make proper repairs. Appolo grabs his gear and walks up the dock. He then hears some commotion down on the beach. He heads down to see what is going on. When he reaches the beach he puts his stuff down and goes to see what's in the raft. Upon seeing that it is a Female elven castaway, he sprints back to his gear and returns with a Water Skin and a Blanket. "Here" handing the waterskin and blanket to Blue. "Bart help me get her out of the Raft and further up the beach into the shade. "Poor girl."
Appolo Tuesday April 24th, 2001 6:49:51 PM
OOC: Sorry about the previous post.I had only read up to when the ship was attacked by the Giant Squid and we lost Bulldog.
Valanthe Tuesday April 24th, 2001 7:27:53 PM
Valanthe's body remains limp as she's carried into the shade. Without thinking she responds in elven. "I'm from a small village in an unknown forest far from here. I was captured by slavers. I don't know how long I was a prisoner. Then there was a problem, I'm not sure what it was, but I was able to fight my way out and escape in a boat. I thought that I would die out there."
Rigging Tuesday April 24th, 2001 8:39:00 PM
Rigging hurries over with his waterskin. If he is the first, he will lift her head and give the elvish women slow sips of water. "Pleasure to meet you. My name is Rigging. Welcome to freedom."
Blue Tuesday April 24th, 2001 8:50:19 PM
After the move to shade and water is shared with the stranger, Blue continues to run healing energy. When she sits up the young cleric backs away and lets Ashira continue her questioning. He turns to the others and asks, "does anyone else have hurts that need tending?".
Tropical Paradise (DM Dave) Wednesday April 25th, 2001 7:30:24 AM
The group continues tending to Valanthe as the sun starts past its zenith. In the background, the waves pound the beach as a wind rustles palm leaves overhead. A few gulls cry out, and sandcrabs scuttle about.
Bart Wednesday April 25th, 2001 4:44:20 PM
"Rigging, Appollo and Lem, what do you think about a search for Theo, and let the Elf in the hands of Ari, Blue and Ashira?" Bart suggestively inquires.
Rigging Wednesday April 25th, 2001 6:24:04 PM
Rigging looks up from the elf maiden. He says, "Bart when you are right, you are right. Daylight is burning and we have many chores ahead. I think Blue should come with us. He knows Theo." Rigging raises up and claps Bart on the shoulder, "We wouldn't want to scare the poor man with your stern visage without a friendly face to soften the blow." He turns to Ashira and Ari. "Are you to willing to care for our new friend while we seek out Theo?"
Ari Wednesday April 25th, 2001 7:11:40 PM
"I imagine that we can, if we have to," Ari answers Rigging. "But being evening, and that we cannot go anywhere soon, might I suggest an alternate plan? I would suggest that we reconnoiter the beach for food, set a watch, and give everyone here the night to recover. Our visitor may or may not be able to join us then tomorrow, along with having daylight to search, and a full day to consider what we find. We're pretty beat up at this point. We're also going to need to go through Bulldog's stuff, also. Our visitor appears to have been here for more than a day, so our immediate area should be safe."
Blue Wednesday April 25th, 2001 7:46:34 PM
"Actually Rig," the young cleric exclaims, "I know of Theo, but I have never met him, although I am sure he knows and trusts Qwen. When he hears I am Qwen's apprentice I would hope that would buy us some hospitality. I would like to go with you to find him... I hope to learn much from him."
Valanthe Wednesday April 25th, 2001 9:31:19 PM
Sitting up, Valanthe feels better than she has in days. In common she says, "Thank you Blue, thank you everyone. I owe you much, but as you can see I have little. I am lucky that I have clothes to wear and a weapon for my hand."
Ashira Wednesday April 25th, 2001 11:16:07 PM
Visibly relieved to see the elven maiden doing much better, Ashira turns to address Rigging. "I think Ari is right. We should remain together tonight and rest. If our new friend is able to accompany us tomorrow, then we will all go together. Otherwise, I would be glad to stay with her. But, I think we should post a watch tonight. It makes me nervous whenever someone "goes missing", and I'd rather not be awakened in the middle of the night by something unexpected. I volunteer to take the first watch."
After she finishes her conversation with Rigging, Ashira pulls Blue aside, and asks him if he can use some of his healing abilities to tend to her wounds.
Once Blue is finished, Ashira returns to Valanthe and asks her more about her recent struggles. As Valanthe recounts her tales, Ashira listens intently as she thinks to herself "So much cruelty and discrimination in the world...when will people learn."
Valanthe Wednesday April 25th, 2001 11:55:19 PM
Upon seeing that Ashira is concerned for her well being, tears begin to well up in her eyes. She reaches over and hugs Ashira and starts to cry. "It has been so long since I've even seen any kin. Let alone anyone that is concerned about me." Then Valanthe recounts her tale from the beginning -- about the brutal slaughter of her village when she was still a child, and the many years she was alone in the wild.
This or That (DM Dave) Thursday April 26th, 2001 4:53:33 AM
The lunch hour passes as Valanthe is tended to, and the group debates whether or not to do any exploring for the day. Vital supplies are unloaded from the Lazy Suzie and a tentative camp on the beach is laid out.
Lem Thursday April 26th, 2001 7:34:39 AM
"If nothing else I suggest a quick perimeter check of at least one hundred yards around our camp site so we best know where any attack might come from," Lem says. "Then perhaps we can set up a few surprises for any interlopers. I also think we should buddy up, until we know we are safe and during watches tonight. If only for the fact that there are slavers around."
Ari Thursday April 26th, 2001 9:32:34 AM
"If you wanted, we could set up overlapping shifts for the watches. Ashira could have the first watch for two hours or however long as necessary, and Rigging or I can set up a magical alarm. Then after the first hour someone else could join Ashira on watch. Then the next hour Ashira goes to bed and the next person comes on watch. Etc..."
Bart Thursday April 26th, 2001 6:10:58 PM
I still think a investigation of the island is the best thing we could do right now, the is land is not soo big I think we can walk around it in a few hours, enough time to find Theo before sunfall!. But if you all think we have too stay here on the beach until tomorrow that's fine with me. I will cook us a dinner then.
Ashira Thursday April 26th, 2001 9:10:59 PM
Looking shocked by the outpouring of emotion from the young elven maiden, the Aquan half-elf awkwardly returns the hug. "Actually, I believe we're distant cousins, but what does it matter? You're safe here." Ashira listens patiently as the girl (?) recounts her story. Tears begin to stream down her greenish-gray tinted face as she listens to the brutal slaughter of Valanthe's village. Then, as the girl continues telling of her wild upbringing, and then consequent capture by slavers, Ashira's face turns into a mask of rage with a tinge of red working its way up to her slightly pointed ears. Unwelcomed memories, accusing faces, and pointing fingers work their way to her mind. She turns her head and says, "I must ready myself to post watch. You rest now little one... we'll talk more when you're better."
Ashira walks over to Rigging and says, "Ari's got a good idea. We should circulate the watches. It's up to you whether we should send people out to explore the island first." That being said, Ashira stakes out a perimeter and begins to walk it.
Rigging Thursday April 26th, 2001 10:09:46 PM
Rigging looks at Blue and says with a smile, "Blue, I have to tell you. I will turn you into a mouse and put you into a box full of cats if you ever call me Rig again. A rig could be anything. Rigging is only found on beautiful ships of the sea. They are masterpieces of engineering and intelligence." He says all of this with a smile on his face. He turns to Bart, "I agree with you my friend. If Theo saw us coming, it would be rude not to say hello. You and I will do a little scouting. Ashira -- if you would look for some materials that would be helpful in making some patches while we are gone, it would be very helpful. I want everyone to keep alert. If Bart and I aren't back by dinner, start getting concerned."
Valanthe "Val" Thursday April 26th, 2001 10:31:17 PM
Val was embarrassed by her outburst, but by elven standards she was still a child. She laid back on the soft grass; which helped her aching body. As exhausted as she felt, Val could not sleep. She tried and tried, but ended up watching the others go about making plans for the night. That's when Val realized what pain she caused herself by remaining alone. After seeing them work together, she felt somewhat out of place. Turning her attention to something else, Val decided to go through her equipment and see what she still had. Carefully she laid out her armor, scythe, bow, and quiver of arrows. Grabbing a rag, she started wiping off her scythe.
Coming and Going (DM Dave) Friday April 27th, 2001 12:32:17 AM
Rigging and Bart head up the path while the rest of the group deal with camp and boat issues.
It is discovered that the boat is leaking again, with several inches of water standing in the lowest part of the vessel.
Camp is easily established, and guard duties set.
Meanwhile, Rigging and Bart head several hundred yards up a gradual incline, and come out of the heavily forested area into a clearing dominated by a multistory domed building, in front of which sits a small white cottage, surrounded by a fenced area with chickens pecking about.
Bart Friday April 27th, 2001 4:05:27 PM
"Ahh that must be Theo's house, bigger than I thought. Let's go to cottage first." When Bart goes forward, he looks for any strange situations and possible dangers. Theo didn't report, something can be wrong but on the other hand there can be a simple clarification for it.
Appolo Friday April 27th, 2001 7:40:04 PM
Seeing that the young woman is conscious and safe, Appolo says, "I'm with Ari -- we need to make camp for the night, we search for the wizard tomorrow." With that he heads back, picks up his gear, and looks around for a good place to make camp.
Rigging Friday April 27th, 2001 10:05:11 PM
Rigging grabs Bart's arm stopping him from moving forward. "Hold up Bart. Theo doesn't know us and might be nervous with a bunch of strangers around. Let's call out first and announce ourselves." Rigging cups his hands to his mouth and yells, "Theo! Theo! We are from the Lady Freeborn! We were sent to check on you! We mean no harm!" Rigging waits for an answer.
Blue Saturday April 28th, 2001 2:14:07 AM
While others are scouting and preparing camp, Blue hunts fallen or beached logs to beach the boat on. When he finds one of suitable size, he drags, rolls and prys it down to the beach.
Lem Saturday April 28th, 2001 2:25:05 PM
Joining Blue on the log mission, Lem says, I think you read my mind. let's at least get a start on getting our transportation seaworthy again.
Valanthe "Val" Saturday April 28th, 2001 8:26:27 PM
Watching the others make camp, Val begins to feel guilty about not doing anything. After a few minutes she works up the nerve to speak, "Is there anything I can do to help?"
Bart Sunday April 29th, 2001 12:12:39 PM
"You are right Rigging -- Let us see if someone reacts!"
Ashira d20=10 d20=14 Sunday April 29th, 2001 5:38:17 PM
While walking her post, Ashira hears Rigging's instructions and begins to look for materials to aid in the repairs while she walks her perimeter. Whenever she finds something useful, she drags it back to the camp site that Ari is preparing. She also searches for any sign of material that can be used to repair the sails.
Whenever Blue gets close enough to her so that she can speak in low tones, Ashira says "I know things got pretty hectic out there with the discovery of the girl, so I realize you may not have heard my request for your healing skills. Are you still offering your abilities, or should I use my healing potion?" Ashira remains vigilant on her post while she awaits Blue's response.
Upon hearing the girl's offer of service, Ashira calls out "No little one, you've had a long, hard journey. You rest now...I'm afraid with our luck, you'll have plenty to do tomorrow."
OOC (d20=10 Search for sail material, d20=14 for watch)
Out and About (DM Dave) Sunday April 29th, 2001 6:16:55 PM
Rigging's calls go unanswered. No smoke is issuing from the chimney, and no sign of movement is seen behind the windows.
The yard surrounding the property is fenced off in several sections, with the chickens having a run of the place in the front, and various gardens to either side.
Back at the beach, Blue and Lem manage to get several downed palm tree over to the beach for use. Ashira doesn't spot any type of storage area for canvas, although the yacht tied up at the dock has several furled sails on its masts...
At this point, camp has been completely established.
Valanthe "Val" Sunday April 29th, 2001 8:30:39 PM
Upon hearing the girl's offer of service, Ashira calls out "No little one, you've had a long, hard journey. You rest now...I'm afraid with our luck, you'll have plenty to do tomorrow."
Val looks down and pouts. She grabs her scythe and starts cleaning it again. "I may not be at full strength, but I'm not useless." She thinks to herself.
Appolo Monday April 30th, 2001 1:00:30 AM
After seing to his gear and making camp, Appolo takes a seat next to Val and says "Shes right, there's going to be plenty to do, don't worry about that." He then leans back against a palm tree and closes his eyes for a few minutes.
Blue Monday April 30th, 2001 1:19:10 AM
The young cleric sets down the end of the log he was dragging and responds to his comrade, "I am sorry Ashira, I didn't mean to forget your needs. You are right I have been caught up in recent events and my own thoughts. Please sit on this log for a minute while I assess your wounds". Blue notices Val's hang dog and calls out to her, "Val, can you help me please, would you fetch some fresh water, I need to clean Ashira's hurts".
To Ashira, Blue says quietly, "What is your sense of the little one? Should I be casting for detect evil? She seems harmless, looks like she needs a family". While he talks he gently explores Ashira's wounds and uses his natural abilities to run healing energy.
Ashira d20=15 Monday April 30th, 2001 1:26:03 PM
Sitting down while Blue tends her wounds, Ashira none-the-less remains constantly vigilant of her surroundings, not wanting to be found lacking on her watch. She winces a few times when Blue tends to the deeper lacerations left by the encounter with the orbs, but never cries out in pain (even though the wounds seem very deep). As Blue tends to her needs, her can tell that despite her facade, Ashira is very close to exhaustion.
When asked about her opinion of Valanthe, Ashira manages a grin in between the winces. She speaks in low tones "I like the little one, and am pre-disposed to trust her completely. However, with our recent string of bad luck, I think it would be a good idea to check her alignment. If it was me, I wouldn't be offended if you cast your spell, considering our recent string of luck. We should probably keep a close eye on her for the next few days."
Ashira sits patiently as Blue tends to her wounds, but quickly returns to her post when he is finished.
OOC (d20=15 for Search on watch, How many hp's did Blue restore?)
Rigging d20=2 Monday April 30th, 2001 2:00:25 PM
The young noble scans the clearing looking for anything out of the ordinary. He says to Bart, "Wait here and cover my back. I am going to go knock on the door and see if anyone is home." Rigging climbs the stairs up to the cottage slowly looking for obvious traps (spot check not my best roll) and heads over to the door. He will look for runes or carvings around the door have heard about glyphs of protection. If he sees nothing, he will knock on the door. If he doesn't get a response, he will peer into a window to see if he can see anything. He will finally check the front door to see if it is unlocked.
Bart Monday April 30th, 2001 3:14:34 PM
As rigging walks to the cottage Bart keeps an eye on the surrounding ready to aid Rigging if he is under attack.
While Rigging waits at the door for an answer Bart slowly walks to the cottage.
Lem Monday April 30th, 2001 7:49:59 PM
Having gathered what material he can to help with the ship, Lem wanders back to the campsite and starts stretching and working out the kinks. Before he does so, he removes an odd pair of short, metal posts joined with a short length of fine meshed wire (nunchaku), several hand axes and lays them alongside his staff on the ground. Lem then kneels down and facing north bows twice and then remains seated for several minutes. When he rose he did a bit of stretching and then moves into a flurry of movement.
Valanthe "Val" Monday April 30th, 2001 10:01:34 PM
Val smiles upon hearing Blue's request. "Sure, I'll be right back." Grabbing her scythe and empty waterskin, Val skips off into the forest humming.
After drinking heavily from the stream, Val returns with fresh water for Blue to use. "If you need more, I'll go back." Val returns to her spot in the grass and looks into the sky. For the first time in a long time, Val is able to relax.
Ari Monday April 30th, 2001 11:51:56 PM
After camp has been set, Ari spends some time in quiet contemplation. Before he decides to rest, Ari asks, "Has anyone set up any rotation just yet?"
A Work in Progess (DM Dave) Tuesday May 1st, 2001 7:45:08 AM
Rigging's knocking goes unanswered and, finally testing the door, he finds it unlocked. Inside he finds a small living room, a smaller kitchen, an even smaller bedroom, and a huge laboratory at the back of the house, with a door leading to stairs winding upward into the three-story domed tower.
Val's wanderings lead her through flora that she has never seen before. Searching about for a stream, she finally comes upon a clearing and spots Bart near a cottage with a tower in back. A well is located to the side of the house.
Rigging Tuesday May 1st, 2001 9:46:02 AM
Rigging goes and calls to Bart, "Hey, c'mon I am gonna check out the tower. The cottage is empty. I am not having a good feeling about this." As he says this he spots Val heading towards the well, "Val!" he calls, "Would you have someone check out the yacht? Make sure that one no one is on it and two that it is seaworthy and provisioned. If we have to leave quickly, I want to be prepared." After saying this he waits for Bart to follow and goes and explores the tower using caution.
Bart Tuesday May 1st, 2001 2:16:00 PM
Bart draws his sword as he follows Rigging into the cottage and as rigging goes upstairs he leaves a few feet distance between Rigging and him.
"Rigging maybe this is not Theos house, maybe he is in the big house. Although this one has an tower and all wizards houses have an tower, everyone knows that."
Appolo Tuesday May 1st, 2001 6:51:37 PM
After resting for a few minutes,Appolo gets up and wanders over next to Ari saying "We should get fire going and have something to eat first,then when Rigging and Bart get back,we can discuss setting a watch.Some hot food and coconut milk might do us some good. "He then whispers to Ari that Ashira needs more rest then rest of the group and should be allowed to sleep the whole night. He then walks over too the Skiff to see if there is any thing they can use too fish with.
OOC: Fishing Rods, Nets Etc...
Blue Tuesday May 1st, 2001 8:51:08 PM
When Val returns with the fresh water Blue thanks her and finishes with Ashira. As Val walks away Blue turns towards her retreating form and mutters quietly a brief praise to Lem and then raising his right hand with palm open, casts detect evil. The youth then closes his eyes and opens himself for a response from the spell.
Valanthe Tuesday May 1st, 2001 9:31:26 PM
On her way to the well, Val stops and smells the flowers. She draws from the well and heads back.
OOC: I hope this catches things up
Of Towers and Ships (DM Dave) Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 7:23:42 AM
Rigging and Bart head up a stone spiral stair, and come out on deck with a huge mounted telescope as the centerpiece. Various levers seem to be used for rotating this great device, and others are perhaps for opening the shuttered doors in the dome of the building.
During Val's stopoff in the garden, she discovers that a majority of the plants seem to be herbs, with a smaller section dedicated to foods. Against the back of the cottage, next to the tower, are the doors to the root cellar.
Back at the beach, Appolo searches the Midnight Moon (the yacht) and discovers that its larder is well-stocked. Various types of lesser fishing equipment is available in various stow bins.
Bart Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 11:35:40 AM
Hmm interesting, but no sign of Theo let's go to the big house
Rigging Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 5:35:23 PM
Rigging immediately recognizes the telescope having studied a much smaller one in his navigation studies. He is amazed at the scope of this one. "Bart, this is the big building. This is an area for studing the stars. Our Theo must be quite the scholar to have built this. I will definitely want to study this later. Right now we either need to find him or get back to the beach and our people. Why don't you go check out the yard and outbuildings. I want to check over his labratory real quick. Shout if you find anything."
Blue Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 7:28:06 PM
Beads of sweat start to appear on the young clerics forehead as he struggles to maintain concentration on his detect evil spell...He focuses and waits....for a response...
Lem Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 7:38:26 PM
Finishing his workout, Lem strips down to his shorts and dives in to the ocean to cool off. After only a few seconds under water and looking around, he surfaces and heads to shore. Back on shore he dries off redresses and heads over to the camp to see what's going on.
Appolo Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 8:47:28 PM
Appolo collects some fishing gear and some food and heads back toward camp.
Valanthe Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 11:16:35 PM
Val sets her gear to the side and prepares to turn in for the night. A disturbing thought keeps running through her mind. "I was just wondering something. Back through the woods there is an extremely large house. Doesn't that mean we should be watching out for possible giants?"
Ashira Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 11:50:28 PM
Overhearing Val's question, Ashira comes over to inquire of the girl about what she saw on her water hunt. She knows that Rigging and Bart have been gone a while and is interested about any news or information about what is outside the perimeter she's been walking. Ashira is concerned that there might be more to worry about from beyond there camp or possibly no need to camp, if there is a friendly place to stay the night nearby.
Ari (campsite) Wednesday May 2nd, 2001 11:58:14 PM
"You've done some exploring then?"
Discoveries (DM Dave) Thursday May 3rd, 2001 8:11:01 AM
After retrieving water, Val heads back to the beach. Blue's spell doesn't register evil on Val's retreating form (after she delivers the water).
Bart and Rigging head out of the tower and into the lab, where Bart continues on to scout out the exterior of the building (and discovers the cellar doors noted by Val earlier).
The lab itself is overwhelming. Tubes, beakers, chemicals, and such litter several workbenches, and any spare space is cluttered with sheets of paper filled with a spidery-handwriting style, some seemingly in a foreign language filled with dots and slashes joined together with gaps here and there.
At the back of the room, partially hidden by more equipment, is a small metal wall safe.
At the other end of the room sits a strange contraption. About 35 feet long and 10 feet wide, this thing looks like a dented metal potato with a trap door on the side, a glass window set in one end, and stove pipes sticking out of the other.
Inside, bolted to a metal floor, is a chair facing toward the window, some empty sacks mounted to the walls, and a metal rack of some sort in the back, covering the stovepipes. And there's a chicken coop mounted at the back as well. All sorts of rods, wires, and pipes stick out near the metal rack, and up at the front, near the window, strange knobs and dials may be seen.
The whole thing sits on a short metal track that ends at the wall of the lab. A couple of levers on the wall apparently allow for a portion of it to swing out into the yard.
Rigging Thursday May 3rd, 2001 9:01:19 AM
Fascinated, Rigging looks in the metal door's window. He looks at the safe and his fingers start itching a little but he moves on, still looking for Theo. He will head out after Bart, after he assures himself that Theo isn't in the lab. He occasionally calls out, "Theo! We are friends from the Lady Freeborn!"
Bart Thursday May 3rd, 2001 12:30:06 PM
Bart knocks at the cellar doors and calls, "Theo are you in here? We are from the Lady Freeborn!"
Expecting no response, Bart tries opening the doors.
OOC sorry about the babylonian miscontrue; I thought we had two buildings a main house and a smaller cottage in front
Ashira Thursday May 3rd, 2001 10:49:24 PM
As she continues to walk her post, Ashira suddenly lurches and stumbles, almost colliding with a nearby tree. Although she manages to avoid getting a mouthful of bark, those who happen to be watching notice that Ashira is not her normal attentive self. She seems extremely fatigued, and perhaps a little more cranky than normal. Cursing in Elven, she quickly brushes herself off, and resumes walking her post, pretending that nothing has happened.
Hola Theo? (DM Dave) Friday May 4th, 2001 11:21:25 AM
Bart's and Rigging's calls continue to remain unanswered. As the cellar doors swing open, an earthy, musty scent greets Bart's nose. Wooden steps descend into the darkness.
Back at the beach, a dark line of clouds on the horizon have been steadily advancing their way eastward, and now a steady breeze is felt coming from that direction.
Blue Friday May 4th, 2001 4:04:15 PM
The young cleric is lost in his thoughts for a moment. He feels satisfied that Val presents no major threat to the family, and he agrees with Ashira that she is a likable young lady and appears to need some family support. As he continues to ponder he decides to keep an eye on her anyway as there are many unanswered mysteries lately.
Blue looks to Ashira and hurries to her side. He was concerned about her fatigue when he worked healing on her. "Ashira", he calls out, "Why don't you take a break? looks like a storm is going to hit, you should get some cover. I have my heavy cloak to warm me and to keep me dry, how about me taking the next shift? I should be good for a couple hours yet."
Bart Friday May 4th, 2001 5:27:47 PM
Bart yells, "Theo are you in there?"
.....
Bart says, "Rigging I don't think he is in here and it is too dark inside to see. Let's go back to camp. There we can discuss with the others what to do. Maybe we can search the other boat for an trail off him."
Bart closes the doors of the cellar, and waits for Rigging to join him on his way back to camp.
Valanthe Friday May 4th, 2001 9:48:32 PM
Val lies close to the fire for warmth with no blanket or bedroll of her own. As she looks upon the faces of what will hopefully be her new friends, Val remembers the past and ponders the future. Even though she has been given nothing, but kindness Val is hesitant to go to sleep. She was taken in openly without much question. Thats not something she would have done. Rubbing her arms for warmth, Val drifts into a restless sleep.
Rigging Friday May 4th, 2001 11:11:47 PM
Rigging catches up with Bart and says, "Let's take a quick look. It would be a shame if Theo is here and we didn't take a quick peek." Rigging reopens the door and heads down the stairs. If it is just a root cellar, and nothing grabs him or he doesn't see Theo, He will head back to the beach. As he heads down the stairs Rigging comments, "Bart, we should get the boat beached soon. Looks like weather is heading our way. We might as well use the house for a base camp tonight and search the island tomorrow. OOc How long have Bart and Rigging been searching for?
Best Cellar? (DM Dave) Saturday May 5th, 2001 6:29:03 AM
Tromping down the stairs, Rigging nearly collides with several metal cannisters sitting at the base (due to the darkness). A few minutes to allow for the eyes to adjust, and not much else may be seen of the cellar, except for various sections of the floor being fenced off with different mushrooms growing in each.
It has been roughly half an hour since Bart and Rigging left the beach in search of Theo.
Bart Sunday May 6th, 2001 1:42:46 PM
Bart says to Rigging, "So he isn't here too Rigging! Let's go to the beach, talk with the others, and decide if we use the cottage for this night instead of camping on the beach. I don't know what Theo would say if he founds his home full with unexpected visitors. Maybe he is somewhere else on this island. But because there is another ship laying in the harbor I don't think he is at sea. But at the other hand I don't think he is at island at least not healty or even alive. Otherwise he had greeted us in some way."
Lem Sunday May 6th, 2001 9:33:33 PM
Lem looks at Val, and then the approaching sky line. "Well do we want to get soaked or shall we head to the house with the others?" As the monk awaits a response, he tries to explain his companions to the new-found elf. "We," he begins, then amends it to, "They have lost a large part of their family in a very short time. I myself just joined them recently and there has been little or no time for relaxation since I joined them. They are a very open group of individuals that seem to trust quickly and accept people for who they are. I expect too from what I have seen, that they would be totally without mercy to anyone who harmed or betrayed one they considered family."
Rigging Monday May 7th, 2001 12:11:57 PM
Rigging stumbles into the cannisters, and curses to himself. "Great - another bruise." After listening to Bart's ideas he agrees to go back to the campsite and join the others. He is worried about the boat filling with too much water and sinking by the dock. He wants to get it beached. On the journey back his mind keeps flitting to Bulldog. He misses his big friend. If Bart looks closely he will see Rigging's eyes all watery. Rigging shakes his head angrily and thinks to himself, "There isn't time for this now. Have to keep busy and keep everyone safe."
Ashira Monday May 7th, 2001 1:13:40 PM
Fatigue written on her face, Ashira gives Blue a small grin and says, "Yeah, it's probably time to change shifts. I'm worried about the upcoming storm... looks like it could be a bad one. I wonder whether we should try to take shelter in the house? Although, if Theo is around, he might not take too kindly to a bunch of vagabonds like us camping out on his front porch!" Ashira manages a small laugh at this, and then heads over to where Valanthe lies and lays nearby the young elf. She turns over to Ari and says, "Wake me up when Rigging gets back." Then she lays down her bed roll and falls into a fitful slumber.
When she is awoken, she pulls Rigging aside and speaks to him in low tones. "Rigging, I don't think that anyone here would doubt that you're the leader. Really, you're the only one qualified for the job. I definitely don't have the trust built up with the others, nor do I want the job. That being said, I feel the need to make a few suggestions. First, it's been crazy since we lost Bulldog, and none of us has had the chance to mourn his death. I think it would be good for the morale of the others if, provided circumstances allow, we perform a memorial service for him tomorrow morning. Second, while on watch, I located a yacht nearby with some sails. So, how anxious are you to repair the Lazy Suzie? We can take the sails now, but I don't think it would be received well. I think we should probably wait until we've sorted out this Theo thing, and then assess our situation. What's your take?" Ashira waits patiently for Rigging's response.
Valanthe Monday May 7th, 2001 11:38:35 PM
OOC: I appreciate the involvement Lem, but I didn't know what else to do so Val is asleep.
All Together Now (DM Dave) Tuesday May 8th, 2001 7:34:24 AM
For those asleep, it is only a few short minutes before your awakened by Bart and Riggings' reappearance. Information is quickly exchanged as big drops of rain start to hit the sand here and there sporadically. In a minute, the palm trees start whipping in the wind, with one or two coconuts dropping to the ground.
Valanthe Tuesday May 8th, 2001 11:51:20 AM
The sound of a cocconut hitting the ground startles Val awake. She instinctively reaches for her weapon, expecting danger. Seeing that Bart and Rigging have returned, Val releases her weapon and rolls onto her back. "With the storm coming, we can't stay here. Anybody have any ideas?"
Bart Tuesday May 8th, 2001 2:12:58 PM
"We could use Theo's house. Maybe he isn't happy with it, but I hope he understands.
"What shall we do with the Lazy Suzie -- leave her here or beach her? I opt for beaching her."
Appolo Tuesday May 8th, 2001 5:05:11 PM
Appolo after putting the supplies down sit comfortablely watching the sea. After awhile he notices that Ashira doesn't look well, and he notices that a storm is coming. Blue walks over to talk to Ashira. Then Rigging and Bart return. He gets up and walks over to Rigging "I agree with Bart we should beach the ship, but I also think you should tell Lem to take Ashira and Val to the house Ashira looks like she's about to drop from exhuastion.The rest of us can handle beaching the ship and gathereing up our stuff." He says this quitely so only Rigging can hear him,just as the wind begins to pick up and the first drops of rain beginning to fall.
Ashira Tuesday May 8th, 2001 6:33:43 PM
Wiping rain from her face, Ashira waits patiently for Rigging's response. As the rain worsens, she further adds, "I don't particularly like it, but I think we should take shelter in Theo's house. We should definitely still post guards."
After receiving her response, she heads over and picks up her gear and prepares to head over to Theo's house. As she is doing so, she notices Appolo heading over to have a private word with Rigging. For a brief moment, she wonders if the two are talking about her, but she quickly brushes the thought aside.
Blue d20=20 Tuesday May 8th, 2001 7:49:59 PM
Blue Listens to the report, but maintains a sharp look out. Briefly he adds his two cents to the discussion about shelter. " At first I was resistant to invade Theo's house and holdings with-out invite, but with this weather brewing I think he would want us to take shelter. I am a little concerned that we haven't seen him so far. With Val lying unconscious on the beach suggests that no one is around. I am worried that there may be foul play at work. Maybe Theo is out gathering herbs and will show up soon, either way we should stay warm and dry and vigilant." With his peace put in, Blue continues his patrol huddled warmly under his cloak.
Valanthe Tuesday May 8th, 2001 11:09:38 PM
Seeing Ashira heading to the house she saw earlier, Val grudgingly gets up. Gathering her gear, she follows Ashira. At this point, she'd kick a bear out of its cave if that meant she could get some sleep.
Ari Wednesday May 9th, 2001 2:29:05 AM
Having done his mediations, Ari sits with the rest of the group as everyone gets updated on what has been found so far.
"I agree that we should take shelter, since it looks like there might be a storm coming. Beyond that, I think we should wait and see what we find here on the island before we commit ourselves one way or another."
Consensus (DM Dave) Wednesday May 9th, 2001 4:58:38 AM
The group packs up and heads up the trail, leaving behind the beach and a rapidly angry sea. Rain is now freely falling, and everyone is drenched before going the hundred or so yards to Theo's cottage.
Lem Wednesday May 9th, 2001 6:03:17 PM
Once inside, Lem takes a look in the fire place and up the chimney and sets about getting a fire going.
Blue d20=13 Wednesday May 9th, 2001 6:48:35 PM
Blue enters the cottage and stows his meager gear in a dry corner. Retaining his quarter staff he checks out the windows and finds a good perch to keep an eye out. He takes a brief look at the party as they settle in then returns to his watch.
Valanthe Wednesday May 9th, 2001 11:20:29 PM
Val sets her gear downagainst a wall and strips down to the bare essentials (skimpy undergarments). She lays her wet clothes near the fire to dry and sits against the wall. "I'll take 4th watch if nobody minds."
Ashira Thursday May 10th, 2001 12:57:01 AM
Once inside the cottage, Ashira stakes out a spot close to the door, and lays down her bed roll. She goes over to Blue and whispers "I think we better have someone join Valanthe on the 4th watch...just to be on the safe side." She returns to her spot, lays down, and falls asleep as soon as her head hits the floor.
Ashira drifts into exhaustion induced sleep, tossing and turning. Far from being restfull, she begins to dream. Dreams turn to nightmares, and somewhere around the middle of the night, Ashira wakes up screaming "Mommy, mommy" in Elven. As she wakes, she tries to shake the image of her mother's lifeless form lying limp in her fathers arms.
Unable to sleep any further, Ashira gets up and stokes the fire in the fireplace. Finding whomever is on watch staring at her, Ashira says "Sorry, must have been something I ate. I don't think I can sleep anymore...you want me to finish up your watch?"
Dawn's Early Light (DM Dave) Thursday May 10th, 2001 6:35:50 AM
A night of rest has wonderful effects on the exhausted party. For some, the only disconcerting thing is to wake without the rocking of the ocean beneath you.
Another quick scan of the perimeter turns up no further signs of Theo. Effects from last night's storm are obvious in the number of leaves lying scattered about, with a couple of downed trees in the yard. The chickens seem none the worse for wear, apparently their housing withstood the winds well.
Bart Thursday May 10th, 2001 11:33:44 AM
Bart wonders how the ships had stand the storm. Before teken care for breakfast he walks to the beach to check the boats.
Blue Thursday May 10th, 2001 12:14:43 PM
Through the night Blue watches over his comerades and continues to check out the windows. From time to time he does a quiet patrol of the cottage.
When Ashira stirs in the night, the young cleric hears her soft calls for her mother. His thoughts turn to his father and in his minds eye he watches once again the torture and bloody murder of his father at the hands of a quad. He shudders as he always does when this memory returns.
When Ashira wakes and claims an ill meal, Blue nods to acknowledge her. He feels closer to her somewhat, knowing that she was likely dreaming of her family lost. His gaze washes over the sleeping group as he realizes they have all lost family and they all must have fitfull dreams sometimes. An image of Bulldog and Wynd passes for a second in his memory. With a sigh he deceides that he is glad they have formed this new family and he feels strenghtened thinking about the bond they share.
When Ashira offers to take the watch, Blue surrenders it willingly and takes her vacated warm place to catch some quick sleep. As he drifts off, the young cleric whispers a prayer of thanks.
Rigging OOC Thursday May 10th, 2001 3:11:34 PM
Sorry guys for not posting. Laptop harddrive quit on me.
Rigging Thursday May 10th, 2001 3:19:58 PM
Rigging gets back to the beach and says, "OK Let's use Theo's house. With this weather brewing, I want to beach the boat or we are going to lose her. Let's get that done and then head up to the cottage. In the morning I want to hold a service for all of our lost comrades. We haven't taken time to mourn properly for many of them. Blue if you would say a few words, we all would appreciate it." Rigging starts heading to the ship. With the help of the others, he will cast off and sail the ship about 50 yards off shore. He will head for a nice soft sandy spot and run her up a ground. He yells, "I want 2 lines tied to trees and the anchor line with the up on the treeline. After this is done, Rigging will grab his backpack and belongings and head to the cottage.
Bart OOC Thursday May 10th, 2001 5:48:42 PM
OOC 1 a flashback Rigging? OOC 2 going away for a diving trip this weekend back on sundayevening GMT see you then dm feel free to delete this post
Valanthe Thursday May 10th, 2001 9:37:14 PM
Valanthe wakes for her watch feeling great. better than she has in a long time. Val puts on her armor as quietly as possible so she doesn't wake any of the others. After 10 minutes of quiet, Val gets ansy and bored. To the person on watch with her she says, "I'm going to go out front and get a morning workout in." Grabbing her scythe and bow, Val heads out front. As the morning sun spreads over the land, Val spins her scythe over her head. For the next 30 min, Val doesn't think. She just reacts to the imaginary battle situations in her mind.
Ashira Thursday May 10th, 2001 11:16:03 PM
After finishing Blue's watch, Ashira finds another spot close to the door, and once again lays down to sleep. This time, she is able to rest undisturbed, and is finally awakened to the sounds of the waking party. Feeling slightly better, Ashira rises and works the kinks out of her knotted muscles. She looks around the party, and is disturbed to find that Valanthe is missing. Asking Ari, who was on duty with her, Ashira determines that she is outside, and joins her. She arrives just in time to catch the last few minutes of Valanthe's workout. Impressed by the fervor and agility of the girl, Ashira watches in silence. When the girl is finished, Ashira says "I hope you rested well. I'm afraid we're going to have a lot of work to do today." Nodding at Valanthe's scythe, Ashira finishes with "But, it looks like you're prepared. Shall we go inside and join the others?"
Valanthe Thursday May 10th, 2001 11:36:41 PM
Val pulls out a small rag from the ground near her feet and wipes the sweat from her brow. "Sure, but I may need to go hunting. I'm rather hungry and ran out of rations at sea." Val grabs her bow and heads inside with Ashira. "You might not believe how much better a wooden floor feels than a boat. I feel much better now. What are we going to do today?"
Appolo Friday May 11th, 2001 12:44:51 AM
After helping Rigging and the others beach and secure the ship.Appolo gathers up his gear and trudges up to the cottage int he rain.He then finds a quiet corner of the cottage to settle in for the night.He sleeps quitly through the night.Until Ashira's cry awakens him.after making sure everthing is ok he goes back to sleep. and sleeps until awakened for breakfast.
Morning Actions (DM Dave) Friday May 11th, 2001 7:26:38 AM
After a quick trip to the dock to check on the boats (both are still there and in the same condition as last night), the group manages to scour the island (which is only 1/2 mile across at its widest point) without locating any further signs of Theo. Lush tropical plants cover most parts of the land, and its easy to see why someone would choose this paradise to make their home.
Rigging Friday May 11th, 2001 8:59:40 AM
Rigging awakes thinking of his lost friends. He stretches and wanders over to Blue. "Blue, What is the official title of a priest of Lem? Do we call you father, reverend, master, what? I want to do the service right after breakfast if that is ok with you." During breakfast Rigging says, "Family, today we mourn lost comrades. We will have a service after breakfast and then we will take the rest of the day for contemplation and rest. We all could use a day off. If you feel like exploring, don't go alone." Rigging looks at Val. "Val, why don't you take this time to tell us about yourself and how you got here?"
Ashira Friday May 11th, 2001 9:03:03 AM
On their way into the cottage, Ashira replies, "It may not be necessary for you to go hunting. Let's check on our supplies first."
Ashira smiles at the girl. "I'm not sure about being more comfortable on the floor. The sea is my security blanket... being Aquan, I get nervous if I stray too far from the sea. As for our assignment today..." Ashira sighs. "We've been asked to look for a magician. He has been out of contact for a while, and we've been asked to check on him. This is his island. The others have scouted the area, with no signs of him. Looks like we're going to have dig a little deeper. I get the feeling that something is wrong... which with our luck means that we're in for some trouble... it's just a matter of time."
Before they enter the cottage, Ashira adopts a serious face and says, "As long as you like, you are a welcome member of our party. Of course, we will be watching you for a little while to make sure that you're not deceiving us... please don't take it personally. We've been through a lot, and tend to be slightly cautious. But, you're elven, and that means a lot to me. It looks like you'll fit in well with our ragged lot."
She enters the cottage, and seeks out Bart. "Bart, how's our larder from the Lazy Suzie holding up? Do we need to "borrow" some food from the garden out back?"
Valanthe Friday May 11th, 2001 1:16:57 PM
Val sighs and remains silent for a few moments. She calms herself and prepares to deal with some painful memories she tries to forget. "I lost my home and my family when I was very young -- 18 winters old, I think. I'm not sure who it was. All I remember is some orcs and goblins, not much else." Val takes a deep breath and closes her eyes. Even after all these years, the horrors of that day remain fresh in her mind. "After that I was on my own. I had to learn how to survive. There were several times when I thought I was going to die. When I learned, I started to travel. No matter where I went there was never anything worth staying for. Many months ago I was captured in my sleep. There were too many men to fight off. They must have seen me in the area alone, or something like that. I was locked up for a long time at sea. One night the crew got really drunk. Probably happy on the money they were going to make. Anyway the crew decided to take liberties with the cargo. One of them came into my cell and tried to force hinself upon me. All I remember is that I got realy mad. The next thing I know is that the sailor was a bloody heap at my feet. With everybody drunk, I managed to escape in a lifeboat. Now I realize that it was a stupid thing to do without more supplies." Val is visibly shaken by the story. Standing up, she manages to say with tears forming in her eyes, "Excuse me," before quickly heading out the front door.
Blue Friday May 11th, 2001 2:33:25 PM
Blue says, in response to Rigging's question, "Well, since we are a rebel church we have kept it fairly simple. There is three basic levels. First is novices and apprentices which are addressed as 'Sisters' and 'Brothers' then there is ordained priests who are addressed as 'Mother' or 'Father' finally are our leadership which are addressed as 'Mistress' or 'Master'. There is many levels within levels depending on the focus of the individuals work."
The youth continues, "I am a apprentice to Mistress Qwen. My formal title is Brother Adarul or Brother Blue, but we are all family here so Blue is good enough. You can call me what you wish."
After clearing his throat Blue finishes with, "we have gone from the frying pan to the fire so many times I haven't had time to talk of 'religous' matters to the family. I do have some responsiblity to the spirtual and physical well-being of the group. I have been assigned by Qwen to see to these matters, sort of like a parish. So I will glady say a few words to honor and comfort our crew. Just let me know when".
Valanthe Saturday May 12th, 2001 12:57:51 AM
Outside, Val sits under a large tree. She hugs her knees and buries her head. Try as she might, Val can't control herself. Images of her childhood village along with her friends and family won't leave her mind. Quickly the images turn into the aftermath of the raid. In the light of early morning, Val weeps again for those that died on that fateful day.
Lem Sunday May 13th, 2001 10:27:13 AM
Up and out early Lem goes chicken egg hunting, and depending on how successful he raids Theo's larder and goes about preparing a hot breakfast for this band of misfits.
As Valanthe tells her tale, Lem gets very quiet as her story brings forth memories that Lem had thought were already buried.
Moments after Val goes outside and sits< Lem carries some breakfast out to her. quietly squatting in front of her, Lem places the plate on the ground at her feet and waits. Moments later, He says in a quiet and almost quivering voice. I have lost those who I called family twice now in a couple of years. My real family was killed or taken by the G'aalian priests in my thirteenth year. That is when I too ran off, planning to live in the wilds on my own. I was found by a group of monks who worshipped Lemtrovex and they took me in, trained and raised me for the past two years. Just days before I met these guys our compound was over run by more G'allian priests. I again managed to escape, but not before I once again watched as those I loved were killed and herded off.
From what I have learned from our new friends, most all of our stories are very similar. I think that is what in part binds them and us together. We are perhaps creating a new family for ourselves.
After saying his piece, he remains squatting for a few moments and then he quietly gets up and turns to go back into the house.
Bart Sunday May 13th, 2001 1:33:35 PM
When Bart returns from the beach he waits outside of the cottage, waiting for the memorial service for his comrade Bulldog. He is also worrying about Theo's disappearence.
"Rigging after the mass we heve to search the house again maybe we find some papers or another clue about Theo's whereabouts. After that we have to search the island, maybe he lies somewhere injured.
Valanthe Sunday May 13th, 2001 9:48:43 PM
Lem carries some breakfast out to her. quietly squatting in front of her, Lem places the plate on the ground at her feet and waits. Moments later, he says in a quiet and almost quivering voice. "I have lost those who I called family twice now in a couple of years. My real family was killed or taken by the Ga'alian priests in my thirteenth year. That is when I too ran off, planning to live in the wilds on my own. I was found by a group of monks who worshipped Lemtrovex and they took me in, trained and raised me for the past two years. Just days before I met these guys our compound was over run by more Ga'allian priests. I again managed to escape, but not before I once again watched as those I loved were killed and herded off."
As Lem speaks, Val looks up and wipes away the tears. Softly, Val says "At times, it's just so very hard. Elves rarely sleep. Instead they enter a sleep like state. They enter a sleep like state where they vividly relive past memories, both good and bad. I get a lot of the bad. A lot of the time I wonder why I lived. Why was I spared. What am I supposed to do? I've been wondering this for about 80 years. Maybe I'll figure it out someday." Val glances down at the plate of food and realizes how hungry she is. Not meaning to be rude, Val attacks the food like a starved woman (which she happens to be).
Ari Sunday May 13th, 2001 11:44:32 PM
Awoken for his watch, Ari assumes the last watch without much fanfare. When Val comments that she's headed outside, he waves her on without comment. Making sure to set his watch where he can keep an eye on her, the rest of his watch passes uneventfully. As various people awaken, and ask where Val is, Ari will keep showing where she is. Once everyone is awake, Ari moves outside to listen to everyones story.
"Ashira, are you still feeling a bit under the weather? I am assuming that Blue and I can help you with that"
Full Bellies (DM Dave) Monday May 14th, 2001 6:17:34 AM
Still no sign of the talented Mr. Theo. Fasts are broken and old wounds revisited as the party takes stock of its situation.
Rigging Monday May 14th, 2001 1:03:13 PM
Rigging leads the group back down to the beach for Bulldog's memorial. After the ceremony, tears still staining his cheeks, he pulls Val to the side and says, "This is an all too common event for us. We are dedicated to freeing our kinsmen and countrymen from the evil grasp of Ga'al. If you want to join that fight then I say welcome. You would have to become a member of the Pirates of Jack. If you don't we will give you some provisions and wish you well." Rigging beckons Ashira over. "Val is thinking about joining our group. I want you to check her over for signs of the heartseed." Rigging looks to the rest of the group. "We need to fix the ship, go through the cottage and workshops, and explore the rest of the island. I want three teams. Ashira, Val, and myself will stay and try to repair the boat. Ari, will explore the cottage and labratory by himself. We will be close enough to back him up if he needs it. Appolo and Bart form into one team to scout the island. Lem and Blue form another one. We meet here three hours before dark at the latest. Anybody have any questions, comments or better yet ideas?
Bart Monday May 14th, 2001 3:54:56 PM
"Fine with me Rigging. What about you Appolo? We will take the westside as Lem and Blue take the left side. I only need my bow and chainshirt. Not that I think I need the last one -- but you never know."
Blue Monday May 14th, 2001 5:10:37 PM
After a short bitter-sweet ceremony where the family's fallen were named and remembered and a brief vow of allegiance and a pledge to the fall of Ga'al was shared, Blue takes a moment to pray for guidance and strength for the family and for himself.
The young cleric gathers his gear and joins Lem to follow Rigging's orders. To Lem he says, "I look forward to our task. We have not had an opportunity to talk. I am anxious to share tales." The stocky youth smiles broadly and heads towards the eastern path.
Valanthe Monday May 14th, 2001 9:52:46 PM
Through the ceremony, Val is quiet. She didn't know Bulldog and ran out of tears for those she knew. She didn't know this Ga'al, but guessed that it was another evil deity. She didn't like the idea of being a pirate, but they don't appear to be the type of people to destroy and pillage. They helped her after all. After the ceremony she says to Rigging, "I will help you for now. I'll stay until it appears my path was meant to be elsewhere. I'm not too keen on being a pirate, but I'll give you the benefit of the doubt." Turning away she continues, "Um... I'm not sure how much help I'll be fixing a boat. I don't have any carpentry skills, but I'll try to do what I can."
Lem Monday May 14th, 2001 10:41:24 PM
I too look forward to a walk around the island if for no other reason than to clear my head a bit. I will be glad to speak with you about our tales.
Ashira Monday May 14th, 2001 11:15:02 PM
Ashira stands next to Blue during the memorial service and listens while the cleric delivers his speech. Touched by the priest's eloquent eulogy, Ashira waits until the service is over, and then turns to Rigging and Blue and says "I didn't know either of your commrades very well, although I'd like to think that Bulldog counted me as a mate. If you don't mind, I'd like to perform a small Aquan service for your lost companions...particularly since Bulldog was claimed by the sea."
Ashira then excuses herself, strips down, and disapears into the ocean. A few minutes later, she reappears, carrying two fist sized black pearls (which look as though they could easily be sold for a fortune). She asks Rigging the name of the other companion that was lost during the siege on the temple (Wynd), and stoops down and writes Wynd's and Bulldog's names in the sand in Elven. She places the pearls in the middle of the names, and recites a short prayer to Delcos (the sea god). Immediatley after the prayer, the pearls are consummed in a blue-green fire that imminates no heat. "This ceremony is said to aid in a peaceful journey to the other world."
Ashira listens as Rigging unveils his plan for the search. "Sounds good Rigging, although I really think it's best that someone join Ari on his search. A wizard's laboratory is not the place to be poking around all alone in. Perhaps Valanthe should join him...she's better suited to that line of work."
Rigging Tuesday May 15th, 2001 7:26:06 AM
Rigging watches Ashira's ceremony and listens to her comments about Val. He ponders what she says awhile and then says, "Val are you a warrior, priest, thief, or wizard? What are your skills? Can you read? Ari what do you think. Do you want company? Last time we left you alone; you ran into a shapeshifter." After it is decided, Rigging will head down to the damaged vessal and do a more thourogh inspection of the damage. As Rigging heads down to the beach, he will calls over his shoulder, "If anyone sees any planks or boat building supplies please let Ashira or myself know."
OCC Rigging Tuesday May 15th, 2001 7:29:53 AM
Dave, Will be leaving town for a few days and still am laptopless. Am trying to arrange having Peer run me while I am gone but if you don't see a post and need one, feel free to pinch hit. I will try to find some libraries with internet access and post but can't guarrentee it.
Divide and Conquer (DM Dave) Tuesday May 15th, 2001 7:36:29 AM
The rest of the day is spent in combing the island thoroughly (no sign found of Theo), repairing the two holes in the hull of the Lazy Suzie (perhaps not as good as a shipwright's handiwork, but not half-bad, either), and going through Theo's cottage and laboratory.
Besides discovering what Rigging noted earlier, looking through the copious notes stacked throughout the lab reveals detailed schematics for the construction of the strange metal potato device, with the cannisters of liquid (down in the root cellar) apparently to be used as fuel. All sorts of warnings are provided about the volatility of the liquid, and apparently some of it was set aside for use by the Pirates of Jack.
Bart Tuesday May 15th, 2001 5:34:39 PM
Bart Says To Rigging: Nowhere at the Island, I will search the other vessel for any signs of Theo. If not.. we have to return to the Lady Freeborn
Valanthe Tuesday May 15th, 2001 9:54:18 PM
Rigging watches Ashira's ceremony and listens to her comments about Val. He ponders what she says awhile and then says, "Val are you a warrior, priest, thief, or wizard? What are your skills? Can you read?.....
With a semi- puzzled look Val says, "Well I'm not a thief or a wizard and I've never considered myself a warrior. In my travels the only people I met were other women who called themselves Amazons. I consider myself an Amazon. I once knew how to read, but I've long since forgotten."
Ashira Wednesday May 16th, 2001 12:01:44 AM
After a long hard day of keeping busy with the various tasks at hand Ashira seeks out Ari or Blue for another request for healing. She's feeling her strength return but only feels about half as able as she did when she started the journey. She also asks Val for a private moment when she may confirm the absence of heart seeding.
Ashira suggests to Rigging that they inspect the egg shaped object in further detail and for the possibility that it may have something to do with the absence of Theo. With no signs of foul play and the ship in the harbor it seems odd that there is no signs pointing to his whereabouts. Noting that some of the liquid was to be set asside for the Pirates of Jack, they may want to load that into their boat the next day. It is also getting time for them to return to the Lady Freeborn before she leaves port without them.
Valanthe Wednesday May 16th, 2001 12:20:15 AM
When Ashira and Val have a private moment,Val asks "What is a heart seeding?"
During the day and the activities that ensue, Val noticably relaxes. In the morning she's quiet and a bit tense. In the evening she talks more and acts more casually.
Blue Wednesday May 16th, 2001 12:30:43 AM
After a day of searching with no sign of Theo the young cleric was at least glad for a day with his fellow theologian Lem. Blue told Lem about his family and his early training. He also shared the basis of his simple beliefs and his vows to serve the people of Aisidlar in Lemtrovex's cause.
When he returned with Lem to camp and heard the reports that there is no sign of Theo, the young cleric was puzzled. He ponders out loud to the family members, "There is no sign of Theo, and no sign of foul play. His ship appears to be here and no evidence of him leaving. Hmmmm. What was found in his laboratory? Any sign of magics that might be used as transport?"
Valanthe Wednesday May 16th, 2001 12:52:34 AM
As the group discussed where Theo could be, Val felt a little lost. She wanted to help, but didn't know how or where. When she heard that Theo had a ship Val began to wonder. "Um, Blue. I'm not sure if I heard you right. Did you say that Theo had a ship? During assignments this morning I don't remember anybody going to check his ship out. Perhaps a clue will be there."
(OCC: I don't know if this was covered before I joined or how big his vessel is, but we seem to be short on answers.)
Ari d8+1=7 d8+1=9 Wednesday May 16th, 2001 5:56:22 AM
After the short ceremony for Bulldog, Ari offers up his own private concerns for Bulldog.
(Ooc Is there any of his equipment left onboard, or was he wearing/ did we lose it all?)
As Rigging hands out assignments, Ari's eyes seem to light up a little, at the mention of going through Theo's Lab. When asked, "I think I should be fine on my own. You guys are at least not tied up with something, should I need help!" Ari smiles at those who participated at the temple raid.
The day is spent checking out the lab and its effects. As the group comes back together, "There is no clue in the lab as to where Theo is. Seems he's working on some type of vehicle. The stuff Sword wanted us to find is down in the basement."
When asked by Ashira, "I can help you with that, then." Ashira feels much better after the first pass (healed for 7 points). Ari checks her out, and sees she is still a little under the weather. Casting one more time, bring her up to full (healed for 9 points)(good rolls! :) ).
Rigging (DM Dave) Wednesday May 16th, 2001 7:50:01 AM
Rigging says, "We checked Theo's ship last night for supplies, and didn't find anything out of the ordinary. Bart, you Blue, and Val get the cargo loaded up on the Lazy Suzie. I'm not looking forward to telling the Resistance that we couldn't locate one of their primary contacts. Ari, let's go ahead and take the safe's contents with us: I don't want someone else stumbling into any of the Pirates of Jack's secrets Theo may have locked away in there. Go ahead and clean out any incriminating materials in the lab as well, and leave a note for Theo that we'll send someone back by to check on him."
Evening Chores Wednesday May 16th, 2001 7:57:12 AM
After coming back together and comparing notes, a last search is made of Theo's vessel (no additional items noted) and the cannisters loaded onto the Lazy Suzie.
Appolo Wednesday May 16th, 2001 11:02:26 AM
Except for one minor disturbance, Appolo slept through the night like a baby, conveniently avioding taking watch. He was the last to wake and the last to eat. While eating he listened to Valanth's tale. He felt sorry for the girl, but was largely unmoved, feeling the story to be pretty standard for this group. Nothing to cry about. The last couple of years has made him fairly hard both physically and emotionally.
After that they go down to the beach and hold a memorial service, with the others getting pretty emotional, but Appolo remains expressionless. Looking at him you wouldn't think that he cared. When it was over he said a silent prayer for the others, asking whatever god there was to protect them.
Appolo then received his orders and spent the rest of the day with Bart searching the island. Not finding any sign of Theo, they head back and made their report.
He then went and started loading supplies aboard the Lazy Susan and preparing for the trip home, hardly saying a word to anyone.
Rigging d20+3=21 d20+3=8 Wednesday May 16th, 2001 11:34:46 AM
Rigging checks the charts and computes some navigation to get them around the area where they encountered the "living water". When the tide is right he orders the ship pushed out to sea and the sails raised. He then jumps down into the hold and checks on the patch. "Val, I have a job for you. Since I don't believe you are ship trained could you be responsible for checking the patch and making sure it doesn't leak to much? Also since we are a man down," Rigging pushes past the lump in his throat, "Could you man the galley for us? Don't worry if you can't cook well. Anything has to be better than Appolo's cooking!" Rigging pats Appolo on the shoulder trying to draw him out.
Valanthe d20=20 Wednesday May 16th, 2001 4:15:13 PM
Val smiles, "Sure. I can barely tolerate what I make for myself. After this you might prefer raw fish. I'll give it my best shot though." Val busies herself cooking up whatever she can, occasionally checking on the patch.
(OOC: cooking check- 20. I make her out to be a bad cook and look at that.)
Ashira Wednesday May 16th, 2001 5:02:57 PM
After confirming that Val is not implanted with a heartseed, Ashira addresses her inquiry. "This region is the territory of an evil god named Ga'al. In order to control the population, he has the people implanted with an organism called a heartseed which controls their actions. That is just one of the reasons that the Pirates of Jack are dedicated to destroying the Ga'al's tirany." Ashira looks at Valanthe with motherly concern. "You've already found out that the world is quite a cruel place. I wish you would reconsider joining the Pirates. They truly are dedicated to a good cause, and we are not like the traditional impression of pirates. We are freedom fighters trying to stamp out tyrany and oppression...a cause I would think you would be interested in. Anyway, we could certainly use your skills. Think it over."
Returning to the party, Ashira is tended to by Ari. After both sessions, Ashira is filling up to her full potential, and is anxious to return to the Pirates. She thanks Ari and then goes over to Rigging. "I don't want to get caught in a sea storm with this flammable material on board! Are the winds in our favor? Hopefully we'll have better luck on this trip than last one."
Bart Wednesday May 16th, 2001 5:19:18 PM
"Rigging wasn't my cooking good enough?" Bart asks with a smile. Bart shows Val how to handle the firepit in the galley and is impressed by the way she manages it to cook a dinner. "Sure you have didn't it before?" he asks Val. After checking everything is all right he goes back on deck and helps steering and sailing the boat.
Blue Wednesday May 16th, 2001 6:34:48 PM
Blue helps load and prepare the Lazy Suzie for her journey. He makes sure his meager equipment is on board and stowed. Then he seeks out Valanthe and speaks to her privately.
He says, "Val, I have a confession to make. I have a responsiblity to the family and their safety, so I used a spell on you to try to detect your nature. My intent was to see if you were evil in disguise. My spell did not detect any evil at all."
"I don't go around using magic on family members without their knowledge. As I now consider you family, I felt you had a right to know what I did. I hope you ... this doesn't cause hard feelings between us."
After his talk with Valanthe, Blue seeks out Ari. He takes him aside for a quiet confab. Somewhat excitedly he says to Ari, "I am still puzzled about Theo. Theo is renowned as a wise man and as a magic user. I am sure he can take care of himself and likely would be hard to sneak up on. So, that can only mean he has gone on a journey, yet his ship is still in safe harbour. That means he has other ways to travel. Likely, magic ways. What did you find in his lab? Any spell book or sign of a spell cast? How did Theo do it? How did he leave the island without his boat?"
Valanthe Wednesday May 16th, 2001 7:39:16 PM
To Ashira after the confirmation of no heartseed: Val looks horrified when she learns that people are losing their free will. "I've seen the evils pirates cause and will not do those things myself. It appears that you use the term pirate for camoflage. I'll join you and help you against this Ga'al on one condition. That you teach me to read and write the elven language."
To Bart: "No I've never worked in a galley like this. The only thing I've done is roast beasts over a campfire. I think that I got everything. I'm sure that there are better things to do than babysit me."
To Blue: At first Val is angry at being the recipient of a spell without her knowledge. Upon hearing that Blue considers her family, Val calms down and smiles, "It's all right, just don't do it again. Nothing personal, but I've always been uneasy around magic users."
Appolo Wednesday May 16th, 2001 9:12:47 PM
After getting the provisions aboard and taking whatever canvas and lumber can be found and loading it aboard, Appolo helps put the ship to sea.
Then Rigging mentions his cooking and Appolo replies, "Ain't that the truth," and continues on with his chores. After he is done he heads below into the hold to practice with an old shortsword he picked up.
Ari Thursday May 17th, 2001 6:22:24 AM
Ari helps to load up the Lazy Suzie.
When approached by Blue, Ari respond, "It is hard to say. I found in his notes something about a metal potato like container, that uses this fuel to somehow travel. But as far as I could see, it did not suggest anything in the way of spells. Though his notes did not suggest how far he could travel, either. Although, with all the warnings he has about this fuel stuff. I wonder how he could travel and not be detected somehow, by someone.
Rigging (from the mall) d20+3=23 Thursday May 17th, 2001 11:06:29 AM
Rigging is pleased with how well the crew is meshing. The burdens of leadership have been heavy for the young noble. He has found a new respect for his father for his leadership skills. He vows to himself to find a cure for the heartseed and get it to his father. After hearing Ashira's questions and computing the currents, winds, drag of the patch, lost weight of Bulldog, added weight of Val and supplies, cargo, and food consumed (rolled for navigation skill) he tells Ashira, "Looking at the data available and taking into account shifting winds, we should make port at 6:17 pm tomorrow evening." One eyebrow raises as he says this.
Head 'Em Up, Move 'Em Out (DM Dave) Thursday May 17th, 2001 4:59:54 PM
The group scurries around and quickly gets the Lazy Suzie underway. Only once the crew is at sea does it come up that Ari was unable to get Theo's safe open (lack of thieving skills having something to do with it, perhaps?).
Good weather greets the party on the high seas as it heads back to rendezvous with the pirate base.
Ashira Thursday May 17th, 2001 7:02:30 PM
Once the vessel is underway, Ashira takes her turn rowing. When her shift is over, she heads over to the galley for a quick meal. While there, Ashira converses with Valanthe. "We can begin your Elven lessons as soon as you wish... although it will have to be in our spare time, of course. Things will be a little more difficult once we rejoin the Pirates. I serve as the kennel master there, and I have recently taken a protege." Ashira grins. "Plus, you will be kept very busy learning introductory pirating skills... you know... looting, pillaging, etc. Seriously, you will have chores assigned to you, depending on your skills. Do you know how to swim? If not, we will definitely have to work on that!" Ashira laughs at her own joke, and then heads some place quiet to take a quick nap.
Valanthe Thursday May 17th, 2001 10:15:38 PM
Val serves Ashira as best as she can, surprised that the rest of the crew can actually eat the stuff. When Ashira mentions looting and pillaging, Val gets an angry look on her face. "I will not loot or pillage, and I can swim. I don't think any of my skills will prove useful on ships. I can't even cook. I'm surprised this stuff isn't eating through the hull." Calming down, Val continues, "Anyway about the lessons, whenever you're free is fine with me. I'm probably going to be more trouble than use. I can't do anything to be useful on a pirate ship. I've lived most of my life in forests and the wild."
Ari Friday May 18th, 2001 8:52:18 AM
As the Lazy Suzie gets underway, Ari takes time to double check the health of the crew. Once the crew checks out, he heads for the patch, and double checks its condition.
While Ari performs his chores, he thinks about his Father's sword, hoping it will come to great use. He also spends time going over whatever he can of Theo's to make more sense of what is going on.
Appolo Friday May 18th, 2001 11:02:28 AM
After practicing for a little while with his old short sword, Appolo heads up to the galley and grabs a bite to eat. Looking at Val, "Not bad, it's at least as good as mine." He then finishes up and heads aloft to check on the ship's rigging and climb into the crow's nest for a while.
Blue Friday May 18th, 2001 1:48:30 PM
Now that the ship is back at sea and the chores are all done, Blue takes a little time for prayer and meditation. He remains puzzled by Theo's disappearance and disappointed that he did not to get to meet the great man and the missed opportunity to learn from him. " Oh well", he sighs, "There is much I do not understand of the great unfolding and the mysterious ways in which Lemtrovex works." The young cleric surrenders his worries and his doubts and prays for guidance and strength to follow Lemtrovex's will.
Lem Saturday May 19th, 2001 12:47:30 PM
Noting Val's sour expression at Ashira's light-hearted, pirating humor, Lem grins and with a serious tone to his voice says, "Val, you need to lighten up just a bit, she was kidding about the looting and pillaging, at least for the most part. The only people we take things from are those that that are abusing and stealing from the people, meaning primarily the evil baddies of Ga'al." Lem takes this trip to work hard on his sailing skills, helping where ever and whenever he can.
Valanthe Saturday May 19th, 2001 9:17:16 PM
Val just says, "Oh, well I take things like that very seriously. I hope they need another blade because that's all I can provide." Val begins to wonder about her position on this ship. It seems there was a lot more than she was led on to believe. Val became uneasy and a bit scared at the thought of what could happen.
(OCC: Val has no sense of humor. Maybe she'll get one.)
Mission Aborted
Rigging Sunday May 20th, 2001 9:47:26 PM
Rigging calls both Val and Ashira over. He says to both, "Do you both speak elvish or is your language a different version Ashira? The reason I bring it up is I would like to learn and I want you to teach our company as well. It might be a nice advantage having a language our enemies wouldn't understand. What do you think? Will either of you teach me? I am a quick learner."
Valanthe Sunday May 20th, 2001 10:35:49 PM
"I can speak elven, but cannot read or write. Ashira was going to teach me in our spare time. However I could teach the verbal language given time."
Ashira Sunday May 20th, 2001 10:48:03 PM
After hearing the fury in Valanthe's voice, Ashira attempts to explain herself to the young warrior. "I'm sorry, the part about the pillaging and looting was a bad attempt at a joke. You will spend most of your time learning basic sailing skills, as well as tactics. It looks like you don't need much help in the fighting department, so we won't need to spend much time on that. Plus, others will evaluate your skills and see if you can be trained to fill specific areas of need for the Pirates. Don't worry, it's not as complex as it sounds."
The half-elf adopts a serious face as she thinks over Rigging's proposal. "Yes, I believe you are correct, it would be very advantageous to have a language our enemies would not understand. And, to answer you question, I speak both Elven and Aquan, which, although related, are not the same language."
"However, and please don't take this personally, I'm not sure that a full blooded human can understand the subtilties of the Elven language... it is much more precise of a language than Common. I am willing to attempt to teach you. I was just talking to Valanthe about teaching her to read and write the language, and the only problem is the amount of free time that I will have once we are back amoungst the Pirates. Perhaps Valanthe will be able to spend more time with you."
Appolo Monday May 21st, 2001 1:43:25 AM
Appolo continues to quietly and comfortably ride in the crow's nest, half sleeping.
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