Speaking low to my two companions I offer a hushed whisper –
”Friends – as we found in the depths below there was some coin and meager loot in the bilges themselves. I have a feeling that there may be other such caches about the ship – if we could find them! Come then – let us do what we can to search one part collectively – our three sets of eyes serving for one. Whatever we find of use, we may divide equally among us three, eh? Come – what say you?
"I'll go with you... " Seijiro will go along with Flynn to search a part of the ship... "There is someone they keep chained up down below, I saw him when I was checking out the middle deck earlier... maybe we could stop and try to talk to him... you're better at chatting folks up than I am, but perhaps we can try together while we're down there. If he's chained up, he may have no love for those who've put him there."
Down below he tries talking to the chained fellow, introducing himself and asking if there's anything he can do to ease his suffering.
If there's still time to assist with the looking around, he will do that as well.
Seeing no reason to search, now that Jiro has given me a possible direction or decision, I follow him.
I believe this man in chains is the same man who had been tortured before with tar and feathering – I decide to bring him a draught of water at the least.
I do not like to see a man in chains – even so; I am not so foolish to take him out of the chains. If I do, surely it will get back to Plugg.
Therefore – I shall do what I can to “Aid” Jiro with his “Diplomacy Check” on the man in chains, not certain how this will effect him, but I believe it is the right thing to do.
** spoiler omitted **
Jak introduces you to a foppish gnome by the name of Conchobar Shortstone. You talk for a few minutes and get to know each other eventually getting him to open up and by the time you leave he is laughing and joking with you.
As you head down into the hold and approach the large man he looks at you with a row of crooked and yellowed teeth. He has a live crab in his hands that he breaks open with his teeth and starts eating raw. When you come closer he says Owlbear! in a loud voice and starts capering around on his chain. After a few minutes of attempting to talk to him you get the impression that the man is very simple minded. You can also see what looks to be the remains of tar and feathers around his shoulders and back. Horatio, when you inspect it you see that it was healed fairly quickly and most likely with magic. The man nods his head at you and smiles when you and Seijiro pull off a feather that was tickling his back that he couldn't reach.
It is said that those who are so touched in the head are given special protection by the gods. For as the gods have made men with minds so damaged in birth; even as this one appears to be - so too has it become their own duty to take them under special care. Therefore, I must be cautious I do not rile the gods and abuse one they surely watch...
I pause a moment to observe his "capering", and seeing his smiles. I have known folk that have been born with such effects that even as they aged, they have the mind of a child. In such cases, I know that though they may be as an adult, their minds are still childlike, and though it may seem as a disrespect - the childlike mind is still pleased with childlike pleasures.
I give this man - this "Owlbear" a very wide and obvious smile at his dancing, and clap during his capering - keeping time to his step, if possible.
When he is done - I shall clap and smile.
"Well done, Mister Owlbear - you dance good," I say, speaking somewhat slowly - and using simple words so he understands me.
I turn to Jiro and speak quietly and quickly, so that I do not offend the Owlbear man, not for self-preservation, but out of pity -
"This man has been tortured, then healed - but mark his expression - he is not angry, but seems to be content? I think they hurt him for their amusement and the fellow does not know that he is so mocked."
My expression struggles to keep down the loathing for the treatment of this person - but only so I do not upset the man.
"I have known men who - as babes - were born with damage to their minds and so aged as this. It is a tragedy to have the mind so hurt; but an even blacker thing to hurt one with such a mind. This fellow, no doubt, endures more then his share of abuse - for children with minds that are called "simple" are often bullied roundly by their own childlike companions at an early age. How much worse must he suffer as a man in such foul company!" I add through gritted teeth, still smiling and nodding politely at this poor fellow.
"If ever we prevail with our allies above and so escape, we must at least try to aid this man and give him freedom - though I do not know he would accept it; doubtless he is of the mind that his true "Family" are the pirates who had already hurt him, then healed him - even so; I do not like to see the suffering of innocents - and this is a crime that angers me much," I add.
Indeed it is true - slavery is a foul thing; but to my mind, this is akin to harming a child. For though he has the body of a man - his mind seems childlike enough to me, and I would not have him injured simply for the amusement of this damnable crew.
As dawn breaks on the morning of your fifth day aboard the Wormwood, you awaken feeling more refreshed than you have the entire time you have been on the ship.
Arriving on deck in time for roll call and job assignments you see the Captain up on the stern deck, deep in conversation with the ships sailing master and mage, Peppery Longfarthing. They do not seem to pay attention to the job assignments and are engrossed in their discussion.
Scourge and Plugg step up and bring your attention back on deck. Mr. Plugg says Work hard today lads! We got some entertainment for ye tonight!
Scourge then smiles and proceeds to give out your assignments.
Rain
Seijiro
Dhaavan
Valeros
Variel
Horatio
Sko
During the day, Seijiro takes a few minutes to slip down and deal with Grok for the return of his last piece of equipment - his rapier. He finally has enough gold to pay the cost in full and if she is willing to sell it to him for 20 gp, he'll buy it back with a happy "Thank you, ma'am," to Grok for her trouble.
Survival
Dhaaven takes his assignment with a grimmace. Neither strong nor skilled in pioneering, DHaavan begins the day's work with great efforts and due diligence. As he hauls, and works he pauses a moment. I'm not cut out for this kind of work. I don't like it, and at the end of the day, I'll take a beating for it if i can't hack it is all. Hmmm, how much do i actually care about that.
He continues his work with slightly less effort, and when he sees Crimson Cogswell "Cog" working nearby, Dhaavan thinks What in the Nine am i doing! I don't give two craps about this work, and if i ever hope to not be what is tantamount to a slave on this damn boat i got to make what friends I can manage, whenever I can. Screw this "Working Diligently" when have i ever done that before. It ain't time to start now!
Strength check to haul rope
Con check to avoid fatiegue
Apparently his little revelation gave Dhaavan the physical fortitude to withstand the day's work, barely.
Diplomacy
Dhaavan lugs a rope over to Cog and starts lashing as ordered. He gives the man a sideways glance, and not interrupting him from his work, Dhaavan asks "What'd Plug mean my entertainment tonight?" as he pauses his work to give Cog an opportune hand with whatever he is doing, garnering a moment of tolerance and earning him an answer. Whatever COg's answer, Dhaavan remains short spoken, but manages to commiserate with Cog about the festivities, be it that he has no idea, and it's probably the kind of thing that the crew should know about, or he matches Cog's attitude about the activities.
Grok nods her head to you and hands you your rapier back. You notice it has been well kept and polished.
Cog looks over at you a moment before shrugging and saying Not sure. Could be a number o'things. You never really know around here. Most likely someone's gonna get keelhauled or some such although I haven't heard anything on it.
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Variel wakes up in the morning feeling refreshed and whole. Both his mind and body have been restored by the nights sleep, the healng from Valeros, and the night off from the rum. That is some potent rum and it burns going down, but it sure does help one become looser and more amicable with people here. Better take it easy and only drink it occasionally. If I feel any side effects in the morning lay off the stuff that night. Easier said than done though with those two watching us all the time. Speaking of watching, that fight yesterday took something to overcome. I better see if I can find a plae quick to meditate and get my abilities back. Variel attempts to find a secluded spot in the semidarkness to prepare his spells and replenish his arcane pool. stealth
After the hour is up, Variel looks around at who else might have noticed his behaivor. Hoping it was just his fellow companions or those friendly to him, Variel rejoins the others as everyone is headed upstairs for the daily 'converstaion' with Plugg and Scourge. Of course its only a one sided conversation.
survival Seeing the captain a converstaion with two women, Variel puts theconverstaion out of his mind. Variel is oblivious to the notion of where they are headed or what direction the captain is taking them. We are here now and someplace different tomorrow. All that matters is that we make the most of what we are presented with today. What does catch his attention is Plugg's and Scourge's words. First the fact that Plugg is happy about some festivites tonight could only mean the worse for some member of the crew. Nothing gives him a smile like someone else's suffering. Second was the dangerous task of Rain being in the top rigging working today. Nothing was as dangerous on a ship as being in the rigging on a windy day. Hopefully she would be alright. It was with relief then that he was told he would be working on repairs during the day. this would give him the opportunity to work and keep an eye on Rain should she loose her footing and fall in the rigging.
Basically just giving you a heads up that if anyone is indiferrent or better in attitude towards Variel he would try to cast featherfall on them to prevent them from crashing to the deck. This only applies if he is on deck of course. Don't know if you want a perception check each day or not. Here it is if you need it If there is a choice between a PC or NPC Variel would cast on the PC.
*edited spoiler*
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During the day, between keeping an eye on Rain in the upper rigging and performing routine repair work on the deck, Variel work takes him closer to a woman that he had not met yet. By appearance the woman was an mature half-elf with a peculiar hairstyle. In elven, Pardon me but I have not met you before. My name is Variel and it is so rare to speak in my home language that I am hoping you would be willing to speak with me while we work? It would make the day go faster without the boredom.
Daily check: Influence "Badger"
repair work Variel was too distracted while working and his job suffered for it. Nothing to do for it now but to take the lumps and hope the punishment wasn't too harsh.
"Huh, well another keelhauling'd be pretty wretched. That kind of thing happen that often here? It's barely been a week since the last one." Dhaavan says, matching Cogs disinterest. "Guess we'll find out tonight then" Dhaavan gets back to work, not wanting to push his luck with Cog, figuring after the event, he can approach and make another play at him.
He does at some point track down the riggers if they come down, and reparemen, although it seems that Variel is (hopefully) occupied talkign to the Half-elf. He quietly speculates with them about the events coming up, probably something awful. "You hear any rumors about it? Guessing it's something particularly savage, judging on Plugg and Scourge's faces, but I dunno."
When he comes up to fish, Dhaavan'll try to strike up a conversation with the quiet man, grasping at straws to ask, "What's on the menu today, eh?"
Glancing at the sun, I squint a moment, then gauge that – based on this time of day – we’ve tacked course!
I frown a bit. I am not sure where we were sailing to begin with - but Port Royal was on the north west coast of Sargova - so I thought. This suggests we are heading out fast to deeper water - which means we're tacking course away from land and into uncharted territory.
Of course - there are many things out there that may not be on a chart. We may be skirting a pirate cove - or some other hidden base where they could hove to and careen their hull - or other mundane work.
Only time will tell, I suppose...
Meanwhile, work is dull – but I go through the motions and consider my options.
Despite the efforts; I do what I can to shrug off the fatigue of the day.
When I am able to – I ponder what tasks I have before me – and my next options.
I have met with – or talked to, and tried my best to influence any member of the crew that I can to our cause. However, despite my best efforts; there seems to be a clear division between those who may be swayed – and those who should have their throats cut swiftly.
I sigh at this situation – and consider my options.
Still the only one that I have met who seemed to be in a position that may be swayed, and certainly – one that could be helped; is this fellow called “Owlbear”. He at least could be helped somehow – though I do not know how I could help him; given the current situation.
My thoughts range over the issues regarding my mother’s teachings of the goddess Milani. And while I am not generally a religious man (this voyage eroding what little faith I had somewhat) – still my conscience pricks at me.
This fellow is treated foully – he is abused, and childlike in thought and mind; this should not be tolerated. And in any case, sense it seems impossible for me to influence any other member of this crew with more success then my mates – and since it seems unlikely that any other action I take be met with some success – I shall at this time, at the least – again attempt to offer this lad who is made to suffer some comfort.
Dhaavan’s sly hint at another “keel-hauling” echo in my ears. If they intend to keel-haul this fellow tonight for amusement – at the least his last moments should be among friendly folk.
Therefore – when I get a free moment – I shall head down and again try to comfort the man, hoping that if he is to die tonight is some barbaric method so that Plugg and his scum can demonstrate their power – at the least he will know he has one friend among us before that tragedy may occur.
Again, I will bring him water, and hope that he enjoys my company.
Oh well - I guess we'll see what happens tonight :)
Via the officer I interviewed with the natural 20 Diplomacy check - you indicated she was the chief gunner's mate. Was there any way for me to determine if by "gunner" you refer to "Cannon" - or is this a general term for ship's artillery - such as balista or catapult? As a "Gunslinger" I would have asked about that, and if it is possible, would I discover that information?
Paying closer attention to Plugg, the Captain and the others, Rain does not heed the position of the sun and direction the Wormwood has taken as her mind is on other matters, especially the pronouncement of entertainment in the evening. The way Plugg had said it made Rain wary. What perverse pleasure will you take delight in tonight, Plugg...? By the gods, why is such cruelty not punished?!
When she hears her task for the day she is not surprised as she knows by now that Plugg takes pleasure in positioning her aloft. Least I am not as high up today and only in charge of the upper rigging. She takes firm hold of the rope/s and begins the climb (50 ft), ensuring her footing is sure on the slippery spars, taking some time to get her feet and hands to move right on the ropes. She manages the climb in good enough time and is relieved, especially on the last 20 ft which she manages to climb more swiftly. Perhaps the inducement of the cool air was pushing her forward (or getting as far away as possible from Plugg and his less-than-subtle leers).
Rain spies the rigger Maheem close to her rope lines. He was a large man, a foreigner by his looks, and he wore a permanent scowl from what she had seen of him over the five days she had been aboard the Wormwood. I should try to get to know the man, at least spare a word in hopes of drawing him as would-be ally.
Rain looks down toward the deck, determining whether it was safe to have a brief word to the large rigger man. I can't have Plugg notice my talking with one of his rigging crew. She cannot see Plugg's eyes on her, so she takes the opportunity to draw the human into conversation,
In sweet, discreet voice and with a gentle smile on her face, she attempts to draw the attention of the large rigger and then begins speaking,
"Hello, Maheem? I'm Rain. We haven't spoken before and I wanted to remedy that. I do not want either of us to get into trouble but I must ask, are you looking forward to tonight's entertainment or should I be worried?", subtly glancing down toward the deck with troubled eyes then back up at the rigger.
As the day’s activities progress slowly, I decide to track down Jiro a moment and ask him a quick question.
”Oye – Jiro-san,” I begin, as covertly as possible ”Do you remember your plans and policies to see that our mates are as fully equipped as they may be?”
”For myself – I am not so equipped – yet. I had hoped that you may be able to sell that very expensive buckler to Grok – and with the earnings give me a cut so that I could buy the rest of my gear; I have a little less then 30 gold worth of items I would purchase – mainly my armor.”’
I glance around to make sure no one can hear.
”If Plugg means to cause us more mischief tonight, I would rather be as well prepared as possible. As of now – I am still missing the armor I had on me when I was picked up on this little adventure, as well as a few minor odds and ends. Come – what say you? No one seems interested in the use of the buckler shield in any case, and it may fetch a decent price – if none among us need the shield, I would surely use the coin to at least buy back the armor I am missing. Will you sell it, and so help me reclaim my stolen gear?”
”Again – I would not ask, but if trouble happens this evening with Plugg and his fools, I would prefer to be armored, rather than not, eh?” I add quickly, hoping that Jiro is able to sell the buckler shield and help me get my remaining gear back.
Of course, as he still has the shield, the decision is up to him. But I feel that it does seem reasonable – given the circumstances.
The woman has greyish silver hair shaved into three stripes across her head. This is probably where she got the Badger moniker. Looking over at you with a curled lip, she softens a bit as you two talk. Responding in Elven, she says It has been a while since I had any civilized conversation. The human tongue is so coarse sometimes. You all seem to have stepped into it a bit over the last few days eh?
Jack heads your way on his way down and when you ask says Eh it could be anything really. Most likely some sort of contest of some sort as I ain't heard of anyone getting a severe punishment. You know what it is?
When you head downstairs, Owlbear greets you with a crooked grin and seems genuinely pleased that you are talking to him...even though he has trouble fully understanding you.
Maheem looks at you and sneers before saying Oh so Plugg's plaything wants to talk now does she. You and your friends try to kill me and now you want to talk as if nothing's happened eh? How about you get back to work wench and I'll get back to mine.
When you head downstairs, Owlbear greets you with a crooked grin and seems genuinely pleased that you are talking to him...even though he has trouble fully understanding you.
"Flynn-san, I still have the buckler and forgot to sell it to Grok when I went to see her earlier... I was hoping to get the gold to distribute to all, I simply forgot. What would it take for you to get your armor back? I have a little gold you are welcome to if that would help... as for the buckler, you are welcome to that, but as you said, it belongs to all of us and its distribution should be a group decision. You are welcome to use this though, as it is mine."
He hands Flynn a pouch surreptitiously. "There is twenty-two gold in there, all I have left. Use it to get your armor back if that would help. But I would like the pouch back when you're done." He smiles and winks, as that is the pouch that the 14 gold was in that was found in the bilges.
Valeros spent his day hunched over the deck, working on replacing some planking that had become warped in the sea air. Finding a moment to himself while he waited for the latest planking to set, he snuck down to the main hold to try to find this Grok person he'd heard about. He'd grabbed the axe Variel had given him, hoping it was enough to get his things back.
Finding the half-orc woman, he tried to give her a charming smile. Afternoon. My friend Variel, the elf, said you might be the one I could talk to about getting some of my things back. I ain't got much but this axe is an impressive enough weapon and should be worth something to ya'.
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Still in elven to Badger, Aye, we have stepped into it as you say. What exactly 'it' is I am still not sure. Some days I think this is just a typical ship with demanding officers. Other times, like this morning when Plugg announced that we would have entertainment, I am not sure what this ship is all about. Do you have any idea what this entertainment is about? I fear that it is nothing good and uplifting like the impromptu dance the other night.
As far as the civilized tongue, I feel that elven is a better language, but the civility comes from the person using the language.
Grok grins as you hand her the axe and she spins it around with a practiced arm. Aye. This will do nicely me thinks. Here you are and a bit more besides. Grok gives you back all of your gear plus the rest of the parties gear as well.
Could be any number of things. We shall just have to see later when Plugg announces it. With that she returns back to her work.
The sun steadily drifts into the water as you complete your tasks. One by one you file your way onto the main deck for the bloody hour. As various members of the crew are brought forth your mind wonders about this "entertainment" Plugg has in store for you tonight. Variel is brought forth and given three bashes with the rope before being sent back with the others.
The evening meal arrives with your rum rations and the food is fair today due to the mediocre fishing.
Variel Minor Addiction Save Charisma Bonus Fatigue Wis Damage
Sko Minor Addiction Save Charisma Bonus Fatigue Wis Damage
Dhaavan Minor Addiction Save Charisma Bonus Fatigue Wis Damage
Horatio Minor Addiction Save Charisma Bonus Fatigue Wis Damage
Rain Minor Addiction Save Charisma Bonus Fatigue Wis Damage
Seijiro Minor Addiction Save Charisma Bonus Fatigue Wis Damage
Valeros Minor Addiction Save Charisma Bonus Fatigue Wis Damage
As the meal is finished, You see Plugg pulling on a set of chains coming up from below deck. Climbing up on deck behind him, still wearing a grin, is Owlbear. The big man looks around at the crew when Plugg's men and some of the other crew start laughing at him he starts laughing too...though obviously oblivious to the fact that they are laughing at him and not with him. He capers for a second before yelling OWLBEAR! which sends the crew into even more laughter. Sadly this just causes Owlbear to smile wider thinking he is doing something good.
Plugg steps forward and brings Owlbear with him on his leash. Looking at your group he says Alrighty! Here be the entertainment for the evening. You all like to fight so it seems from that little encounter in the hold. I got 100 gold that says Owlbear here can beat yer best man...or woman. he says with a leer towards Rain Ye got five minutes to pick yer man and I ain't askin! One o'ye will fight or ye all get the lash. Oh and one more thing! This'll be a stand up fight! I see any magic or such and you get a taste of the cat! Not the lash! You understand me maggots?!
The crew begin to make a circle around the main mast to see the fight. Apparently this has happened before. You begin to hear some betting going on as people start wagering. The Captain and Scourge are standing up on the stern deck watching the proceedings.
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The rope bashes annoyed him. Not so much from the pain, but rather that he was unable to fulfill that job even with it being so easy. The pain from yesterday with the rat bites was worse. No this annoyance was self inflicted and easily remedied. However, it was minimal when compared to the fact that he was looking out for his mates up in the rigging. It was a burden that he would gladly bear.
The food was fair by the standards of the sea. Not nearly as good as some might have it, but it kept the strength up. The food may have been better if Variel wasn't preoccupied with wondering what the entertainment for the night was. As such Variel continued to watch and wait. When the rum came by, Variel thought about downing it, but thought better of it. Drinking now before he knew what was coming was a sure way to get himself into trouble or worse one of his fellow mates. As discretely as possible, Variel emptied the rum into the sea behind his back. Stealth check Luckliy for him none of the officers noticed and it was with a clearer mind that he waited for Plugg and Scourge to start the festivities.
Variel's back is turned when the big man is brought forth. Even the laughing and chuckling of the crew does not catch his immediate attention. It isn't until the big man hollers out Owl Bear that Variel turns back around. Its a shame what these 'men' do. This is no way to treat a person. It is a blessing that he does not understand what they do to him. When Plugg announces that one of the new crew is to fight Owl Bear, Variel first inclination is to laugh it off and not fight him. When Plugg looks at Rain and adds woman though, that thought leaves and he prepares himself to throw his name in the hat to fight.
As the group gets together, I will fight if no one else wants to. Throw mine name in the hat. Whomever fights, remember that Owl Bear is mocked and ridiculed worse than us. Show leniency if you can. If i am to fight,I will ask Sandara for some healing to remove the rope bashes first. Valeros, you have my back should something happen?
Dhaavan sighs, as Plugg announces a fight, glad that we get to choose who goes into the ring as opposed to picking for us. Certianly ain't gonna be me, is all I know for sure.
He trudges up to the group, and as Variel volunteers, Dhaavan shrugs. Better you than me, mate. Wish there were something I could do for ya, but don't got nothin what could be useful in a fight like this one. By the look o' things, tho not only is this fellow's gonna hit hard, and not go down easy, but he's done this before, and that idiot grin worries me. He's don't need to know what he's doin, but with the crew laughin as he beats yer face in, he's gonna have a great time doin it, thinkin he's a good boy!"
Dhaavan doesn't know the big man, and doesn't want to get put into a ring. THis whole affair is rather odious and uncivil to him. Sure some folks like to play at a fight, and if two folk want to do it, then more power to em, let em have their fun, but forcing folk to fight like this... Fighting isn't something Dhaavan likes, not really gets, not these petty brawls. His eyes have lit up on occasion watching his birds reek havoc, and hurling acid about, but that was some dangerous stuff going on. It is clear that there is a disconnect between what the slight man does, and this crass tomfoolery.
"If ya think ya can beat 'im, then go ahead, but I'd say the best one to send in is whoever thinks they can live through that kind of thrashing..."
"Flynn-san, I still have the buckler and forgot to sell it to Grok when I went to see her earlier... I was hoping to get the gold to distribute to all, I simply forgot. What would it take for you to get your armor back? I have a little gold you are welcome to if that would help... as for the buckler, you are welcome to that, but as you said, it belongs to all of us and its distribution should be a group decision. You are welcome to use this though, as it is mine."
He hands Flynn a pouch surreptitiously. "There is twenty-two gold in there, all I have left. Use it to get your armor back if that would help. But I would like the pouch back when you're done." He smiles and winks, as that is the pouch that the 14 gold was in that was found in the bilges.
** spoiler omitted **
"Aye - the buckler is fair distribution for all..." I say, pondering a moment.
"The best thing for it, as I see it - let us sell the buckler outright for coin. Once we have the coin - we can better divide it among us, so that all could use it in the way they see fit. Also, no one seems very interested in the buckler for itself - and if is as rare as you suggest, crafted by a master - we may fetch a fair price for it. Also - I think Grok may be persuaded to do business - I have worked well with her before..."
Seijiro speaks softly to the others, "I kinda made friends with the bloke, so I might be a good choice, maybe he'll take it easy on me since we spoke earlier, I dunno... I'm not a great fighter, though I do dodge well. I'm sure there are those among us who are stronger and just as fast as I am however. I'm willin' ta make it look good and take a fall if y'all wanna bet against me and make some coin.. I know I can make it look good, no matter what. THAT at least I can do well..."
I respond to the threat from Plugg -
"I will not fight him," I say loudly and somewhat emphatically as my eyes flash a moment at this sham.
"To abuse him physically is weak and petty - but he has the mind of a child; and for all of his physical strength - I see in him no worse then a child's lack of understanding."
"No - I will not fight him; not for the entire purse Plugg promises - for if I succeed, I shall at the least hurt him, and that is not something I relish - any more then hurting a child."
Dhaavan nodds at Sejiro's suggestion, "Well, if you can avoid taking to bad a beating, and take a believable dive, then I'd say go for it. Try to get a few licks in if you can, just to keep the crowd goin' and so it don't look too obvious. I bet he'd barely care if you don't get him too good or sucker-punch him or something. BUt the whole bob'n'sewing thing with the fake punching and stuff..." Dhaavan clearly has no idea how to fight, as he's "put up his dukes and is wobbling about lamely. He gives a shrug, "You'd know better'n me. Don't get yerself too beat up..."
"Huh! Plugg bet 100 gold pieces on this event - if you were discovered to "take a dive" that could be trouble. It may suggest that you were hand in glove with Plugg on the entire wager - and that this "Dive" you took was part of a more complex set of duplicity for him to simply hustle gold from the crew who would choose to bet against him. Why - can you imagine how the crew would react to being cheated? It would be scandalous!" I say with a growl; but a sudden knowing nod to Jiro...
"It might be too obvious if y'all were to bet against me though... and what happens if the unthinkable occurs and I accidetally win? you'd all lose your money... 'course if that happened, we'd have the purse ta split up. I suggest not betting much - or split your bets... some going one way, some the other, just in case y'all really want me ta try this."
Seijiro grins, sure of his ability to take a dive with panache, just not so sure of his ability to judge just when to do it... Timing is everything, after all.
Dhaavan gives Flynn a sly look, whispering, "Very clever Flynn." then looks at Jiro, to see if he thinks he can pull off this complicated a bluff. "Maybe we want it to be obvious, not so much that everybody knows it happened, but if the crew suspects, we can tell em it was a fake at any time, lighting the fuse as it were."
Jack Thrush adds in infernal "And we wait for the most opportune moment."
Dhaavan nods, "yup, the most opportune moment."
"You mistake me, sir," I respond somewhat sternly.
"Firstly - I have no coin to bet - still awaiting the chance to reclaim that which was stolen from me. Second - I would not place a wager in which two of my friends thrashed each other, and my victory was the result of one of those friends suffering more than the other."
My voice softens a little -
"This man is ill-used, but I feel he has a good heart beneath it all - and though he and I may not have complex and deep conversations - I would consider him a friend, and sense the same from him."
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I don't know abut taking a dive. It seems riskier to take a dive than the punishment this Owlbear would inflict. I agree Horatio that it seems harsh to fight him, but what other alternative is there. If we don't fight him, then we will suffer the cat, possibly all of us. I would rather take a beating and have Valeros heal me than that alternative. What do you think Rain? Try for the 'honest' fight or have Jiro try and take a dive.
Plugg looks at Horatio with disdain before saying Just as I thought. A coward! Are there any of you who have the stones to tangle with the Owlbear. I've had enough of that womanly bleating for a lifetime. Turning to the crowd he says What do you think? You ready for a show? The crowd seems even more into it than they were before after Horatio's little lecture on morality.
Owlbear laughs and smacks his fists together. He puts his hands in the air and yells out OWLBEAR! The crew cheers him on...you get the suspicion that there aren't a whole lot of bets going your way right now.
After another minute Plugg roars out, Alright! Times up! Which one of you ladies is man enough to face the Owlbear.
"I'll do it," Sko mutters to the others. "I doubt I can actually win and Owlbear is clealry used to this sort of thing; it's one of the few times I've heard of him being happy. So he beats me, everyone is spared the lash, and the crew goes a day or two with inferior food; including the Captain. This is the best way to avoid harm for everybody, I think."
If no one moves to stop him, Sko will step forward.
What do you think Rain? Try for the 'honest' fight or have Jiro try and take a dive.
"Fairly Variel, I would rather we only fought enemies. But if we have to fight this Owlbear, then I say honest fight. Taking a dive seems too fraught with mischance."
Seijiro seems ready to go and makes a half step forward but stops when Sko volunteers. "If you're clearly willing to do this, fine, but if things go badly and the field opens, I will step in if you want... " He mutters something again in Minkaian and sits back down.
Dhaavan shrugs as Sko steps up to fight, and turns to walk to the back of the crowd. WHile they watch intently, Dhaavan pulls a little piece of wire and starts playing with it. With a whisper and a gesture, he casts when he gets away from prying eyes ads the rest watch, and whispers into Sko's ear from the other side of the ship, "If you can, make it look like you were trying to lose. If ya manage that it may give us some ammunition for later..." but at the end of it, he's not exceptionally excited about the proceedings.
Whenever the fight starts, however, Dhaavan takes interest, studying Owlbear some, but primarily focusing on the attitudes of the onlookers, Those he's befriended, and those whom he does not yet know well. He makes a mental note of any that do not particularly care for watching Sko and the brute duke it out.
Sko steps forward but deliberately refrains from looking at Plugg.
"Well, Owlbear," Sko manages a smile, "let's have a good fight then."