"I know, but I swim as fast a manta ray, and the information I could gather might be worth the risk. I'm pretty much done for healing as it is."
"I know, but I swim as fast a manta ray, and the information I could gather might be worth the risk. I'm pretty much done for healing as it is."
Horatio glances at Adular and Amen-set appears with his kit bag.
"I won't stop you, but if you'd like, Amen-set could send Horus over to get close and spy on them and report back; that we can find out what's up and at the least you won't be at risk."
"Either way, it's up to you," he adds, then turns back to face the enemy ship.
Seijiro watches silently and with great curiosity the other ship as it seems to be sinking a bit and some kind of fight going on there...
he softly says to himself, "Yurei?... Dhaavan's ghost come to save us...? " he throws a handful of gold over the side with a prayer to Hei Feng to protect the Dread Lady and her crew.
Amen-set notices Seijiro making an offering to appease the mighty wrath of Dhaavan's spirit and she nods at the gesture, a look of pride on her face as she watches the seas bubble and froth in front of them.
"Bi-la kaifa!," she says at Seijiro's words and nods at the kitsune with gracious courtesy.
After making his way to the lake Dhaavan hesitates as he looks down but then thinks Into the breach!
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Variel nods to Adular to go find out what he can see. We need to know what is going on over there. Take this as well to hide you for the short term. Variel then casts vanish on Adular before he hops over to find out what is going on.
Perception to see what is going on
While waiting for Adular to report Variel takes the opportunity o grab the ring of protection +3 and the belt so at least he can use them during the coming possible fight.
The fighting dies down and you see the ship is sinking fairly rapidly now. You are unsure as to what has occurred but it seems strange to say the least. While watching you begin to see what looks like a large fin slicing through the water towards your ship. The fin is ribbed and speckled with brilliant green and brown. As it gets closer, you see that it is approximately the size of a juvenile dragon (Large Size) and seems to swim with a swishing movement like a crocodile. As it surfaces, you see an attractive, though not necessarily beautiful, woman perched on the creatures shoulders. She wears intricately carved wooden armor, and has a wooden scimitar and a wooden shield strapped to her back. She sports the long pointed ears of an elf but her eyes are burnished gold and her hair seems to move on it's own even with no wind in the cove. Drawing herself up to full height, she stands upon her companions back and says to you all I am Anasrianna! I seek the one called Dhaavan of Clan Idolis!
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Seijiro pops the items out of the haversack that Variel wants and hands them over... then moves to the railing to better see the dragon and the woman riding on his back.
He thinks to himself the best response to such a request... and decides it would be to say he's 'unavailable' because the woman doesn't look like she'd be too happy to hear Dhaavan's dead... but instead of speaking he just looks to Variel, letting the captain speak for all in this instance.
I am Anasrianna! I seek the one called Dhaavan of Clan Idolis!
Amen-set moves forward, staring at the female with a stern look.
"Dhaavan has been pierced by foul steel - his mortal flesh perished but his Sekhem is strong," she says to the elven woman.
"If you come to parlay on his behalf then I shall hear your words, and hearken! if you are his ally, then you are my ally!" she says as she looks at the Elf steadily, her eyes bright and fearless.
Adular nodded, and hit the water and swam towards the ship as soon as the Captain cast vanish on him.
Of course, he had barely time to start when...
I am Anasrianna! I seek the one called Dhaavan of Clan Idolis!
"Well, hello there, lass. Adular, in service to Besmara. Seeing as it's already been said aloud on his fate , might we ask your business with the departed? The Captain's a reasonable man if you want to talk direct to the fellow in charge"
Horatio stiffens at Amen-set's words and he moves from his place by the siege engines and turns to stare at the newcomer, his hands casually sliding to rest easily on his weapons as he watches.
She doesn't look surprised at the mention that he is dead. She says I can speak plainly to all of you of my intentions which are to bring Lord Dhaavan back from where he now rests beside the Lake of Mortal Reflection in Pharasma's Boneyard. May we come aboard? There is much that we must discuss. She awaits your answer.
She doesn't look surprised at the mention that he is dead. She says I can speak plainly to all of you of my intentions which are to bring Lord Dhaavan back from where he now rests beside the Lake of Mortal Reflection in Pharasma's Boneyard. May we come aboard? There is much that we must discuss. She awaits your answer.
"If you can reunite his spirit and flesh then you are my friend and there will be a debt of blood between us. Come, then," she says to the Elf.
Amen-set will throw her a rope.
From her place by Variel's side (Neko by her feet), she guardedly and curiously watched the newcomer as she bid to speak with the late sorcerer. Since Amen-set and Adular both responded in greeting and explanation, she waited for Variel to formally approach the unusual female.
She wondered how the crew were faring below -- with the repairs to the rudder. And now the hull was damaged. Least the enemy ship had sunk mysteriously, or probably not so mysteriously with the sudden appearance of Anasrianna atop her swimming, dragon-like mount.
Anasrianna looks at Amen and says I am unfamiliar with the customs of some of the Shackles sea folk. Is it not required to get the invitation from the Captain? Or are you an officer such that I can receive from you on his behalf? I do not wish to offend as a starting point. She seems genuinely a bit flustered and concerned. As if she knows what social customs are from reading them out of a book.
"The captain is here, and will give you his answer, but I am an officer and if what I say makes a difference, you are welcome if you bring tidings that will result in Dhaavan-san's return to us from the land of the dead."
Anasrianna looks at Amen and says I am unfamiliar with the customs of some of the Shackles sea folk. Is it not required to get the invitation from the Captain? Or are you an officer such that I can receive from you on his behalf? I do not wish to offend as a starting point. She seems genuinely a bit flustered and concerned. As if she knows what social customs are from reading them out of a book.
She just her chin out formally.
"I am neither captain nor officer. I am merely a girl who serves the Great Father."
"For myself I do not care for those customs - only that those I care for are safe."
"But know that this is not a crew of honorable sailors nor even a crew of privateers - you seek to enter a ship of corsairs who seek wealth and glory. With such folk there can be no talk of 'formalities'," she adds with a grunt.
"I will fight by your side, though, if you would aid Dhaavan," she says without looking at the others.
Horatio’s eyes narrow a bit at the conversation.
”Begging your pardon, my lady; but on this vessel what any of us says matters; we are not Royal Navy but free men and women who value the wisdom of anyone, no matter what their rank or station,” he says, responding to the Elf and moves to the gunwale.
”If you are waiting for a formal invitation it’s sure to be forthcoming if you’re here to help our friend.”
”As for myself I am Doctor Horatio Flynn; Ship’s Chief Gunner and that is Amen-set, my ward,” he says.
”I bid you welcome and I thank you for whatever friendship you are prepared to offer us in advance,” he adds and bows low and graciously before her.
Adular chuckles at something but lets it be. He does however look over the stranger for signs of holy items or the like.
Amen-set stiffens at Horatio’s chastisement for her words and move to his side and bows low before the Elf beside him.
Horatio stands and peers at the woman.
”Your pardon, m’lady; while you wait to come aboard, would you be so kind as to tell us your name?” he asks her, studying her carefully as Amen-set seems to fidget somewhat, clearly eager for her to come on the ship and move to help Dhaavan.
she nods her head and says Thank you. Again I wish not to offend. Turning to the creature she says Brightscales, up on deck please. Brightscales then begins to climb up the side of the ship and over the railing. He stands about 8 feet tall and his scales are a brilliant polished green with mottling of blue and brown. He tilts his head slightly like a bird and bobs a bit when he walks with several thudding steps.
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Variel stands center deck and sees the opposing ship start to sink rapidly. Yelling to the crew, Launch the longboats and save a couple of them. I want to know who they are and where they came from. With that task completed Variel turns to the reason the opposing ship sank. I am Captain Nightstorm and as my officer, indicating Jiro, has stated, you are welcome aboard with a few conditions. First you must toss up your weapons and come unarmed. Second you must submit to a search of your person. Only then will I allow you to come aboard. We have had a rough day and I am not willing to risk any more harm to myself, my crew, or my ship at this moment.
This may seem unreasonable to you but that is the price of coming aboard. I will tell you truly that I do not trust you as Dhaavan has only crossed the veil an hour ago and yet you claim to know about it. further more you would have had to known about it previously in order to arrive at this hour.
she nods her head and says Thank you. Again I wish not to offend. Turning to the creature she says Brightscales, up on deck please. Brightscales then begins to climb up the side of the ship and over the railing. He stands about 8 feet tall and his scales are a brilliant polished green with mottling of blue and brown. He tilts his head slightly like a bird and bobs a bit when he walks with several thudding steps.
Amen-set stares at the creature with both awe and suspicion; but she says nothing to it.
Horatio nods to her.
"Aye - and I am pleased to make your friend's acquaintance, but you haven't yet told us your name, lady," he says to her courteously.
He studies her thoughtfully.
"How can you help our fallen comrade?" he asks her, then waits for an answer.
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Variel hears Amen-set's words to the stranger and gives Horatio a look and a quick whisper if he is within hearing range. Horatio, I can not have her giving approval to have people come aboard this ship. She does not have that authority. As your ward would you please speak to her about that? While not The Royal Navy we still have 'formalities'.
Seijiro bows to Variel... "You are wiser than I captain-sama... and you are most correct in having her surrender her weapons. I wish I'd thought of that myself, but that's why you're captain, eh?" Despite the formality of the bow and the beginning of his speech, he smiles impishly as he finishes most informally. Then he turns to watch the dragon and it's rider come aboard the Dread Lady.
When Anasrianna and Brightscales climb on board, he says aloud in wonder... "Tatsu...Shiny...!"
"She's a servant of Magdh, captain," He answers, "Old goddess indeed, 'eldest of the first world'. A goddess of prophecy and readings of fate, if I recollect what I learned between study and bar tales." He says speaking of the new comer, "Besmara and she have very different outlooks, but they're not foes that I've ever heard of."
Variel hears Amen-set's words to the stranger and gives Horatio a look and a quick whisper if he is within hearing range. Horatio, I can not have her giving approval to have people come aboard this ship. She does not have that authority. As your ward would you please speak to her about that?
Horatio waits for her to respond and as he does he turns to Variel thoughtfully, his eyes glancing toward the setting sun.
"The hour grows late for long words now; yet I hear thy concerns for Amen-set. In truth, I myself was surprised that she would seek to extend an invitation so casually."
"Perhaps her boldness was prompted by frustration at having her crewmates ignore her? After all, she is her own woman and she has tried time and and again to extend her friendship yet there are those aboard who have done naught but ignored her efforts," he says.
"Or perhaps her concerns were merely encouraged by her genuine concern for Dhaavan, for she cares for him and likely would not dally if he could be aided."
"Who can say?"
He glances to Amen-set again.
"Yet I tell you, do not worry overmuch about "allowances". After all, she speaks her mind and has a fierce heart and some women are like that. Why should a woman be chastised for being who they are?"
"But as it is late, if you would prefer, we can speak on these matters at length at another time," he adds with a polite voice.
He turns back to the woman.
"My apologies, lady; me and my companion needed a moment to speak privately," he says with a courteous nod to her.
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Variel nods to Adular, Thank you Adular. That at least partially explains why you are here now Anasrianna. It alleviates some of my concerns. Still. we must be cautious. Too many personal attempts on my life alone has taught me to be guarded with strangers. Looking at Brightscales, I don't think he is going to be fitting inside. Perhaps we can speak here if that suits you. and it keeps you where we can all see you and surround you if need be. The perfect time to attack is if we are an officer short which she knew already.
Turning to another crewmen Variel whispers, I need 10 men in the water now guarding the ship and the repair crew.
Rain, from her place, stared at the very large mount as it climbed aboard the Lady. The golden cat by her feet paused in her general ministrations and gave a low hiss before settling back down by her mistress' feet, paying no further heed to it.
Finding her voice, she bid the female welcome, "I am Rain and the pilot of this fine vessel. Welcome aboard." She gave Anasrianna a small smile as she took in her person; a cursory glance for now.
Hearing Variel giving order for more men to protect the ship and repair crew, she asked him quietly, "I can assist in repairing the rudder and hull ... if you think it the best utility of my time and skill at present? Or would you rather I remain here, since we have a guest?"
Horatio glances to Variel and rubs his hand against his chin thoughtfully.
"My friend, remember; who cares for weapons of steel or iron when you may sink a ship with magic, eh? Thou art crafty with knowledges of Arcane purposes, perhaps it would be best to make sure that she does not cast a spell, then?" he adds.
His tone is sincere; Horatio respects caution, and though he is outwardly courteous; they all saw what she did to the other ship. For himself, he's more afraid of her magic than mundane weapons at this point, but he does appreciate the value of keeping an eye on her.
"I am Rain and the pilot of this fine vessel. Welcome aboard." She gave Anasrianna a small smile as she took in her person; a cursory glance for now.
Amen-set turns to Rain and smiles broadly, glad to see how her adopted senet treats this newcomer.
She cocks her head and looks at this Anasrianna.
"You have powers and seek Dhaavan, then; to aid him?" she asks, standing somewhat taller, her eyes studying the serpent creature with a hard look, but then flitting back to the newcomer with a pleased expression.
"Was it you who also sunk that ship which attacked our own?"
"If so, then I honor you for your skill in battle. The killing of an enemy is surely a good thing!" she adds with a pleased gleam in her eyes.
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Variel nods as Horatio's words. Turning again to the newcomer Variel states politely yet firmly. As the good doctor has indicated to me I will need to have your holy symbol, component pouch and other means of spellcasting. If you wish to place them in the open nearby I will order it that none touch them in the meantime. Again I apologize for the inconvenience yet necessity dictates such actions sometimes.
diplomacy to soften the demand/request
Perhaps it was the long day but there was more of an edge to Variel's voice than he intended. Still if it kept the ship, crew and Rain safe it was worthwhile.
Amen-set turns to Rain and smiles broadly, glad to see how her adopted senet treats this newcomer.
Catching Amen-set's smile, Rain returned the smile and nodded her head. Any talk between them would have to wait until all their pressing matters had been attended to.
Variel's reply satisfied her well enough, yet her thoughts slipped momentarily to those below working diligently on the repairs. She responded as quietly, "Alright. I will remain, here, to answer any questions and give insight."
Upon Variel's instruction to the newcomer regarding the removal of her magical items, Rain added, in hopes of smoothing any ill-tempers, "We do not ask any more of you than we do any other guest aboard the Lady, Anasrianna. It is simple precaution. We will respect your possessions as if they were our own."
Catching Amen-set's smile, Rain returned the smile and nodded her head.
Amen-set beams at the response and turns and speaks softly to Neko -
"Observe, my friend; this one moves with that beast; and mark well, he stands in the likeness of Sobek! Surely this is a goodly omen,"
Then she glances to the others and waits to see what happens next, eager for them to bring the body of Dhaavan out so that the ritual may be performed and he can be brought back safe and whole.
Seijiro lofts a brow at the comment about respecting her belongings as if they were our own... if they were ours, we'd take them and split them up among us, he thinks... then bites his lip to keep from smiling for a brief moment, knowing better of course.
He turns his attention back to the dragon, creature of legends back in Minkai... he glances at each of the others for a moment to see if they are as much in awe of it as he is. He keeps Tomo on a tight leash so to speak, even though there is no physical tether between them, not wanting the curious little monkey to end up a dragon snack.
Finally he tears his eyes away from the dragon to it's unusual rider, who seems to have a strange link to Dhaavan, knowing not only his given name, but his clan and of his unfortunate condition... Is she a messenger from the gods then? Adular said she was a servant of an elder god. Does she bring us tidings of his fate? Her eyes.. are so penetratingly bright... I've never seen the like before.
Adular , still in the water, does as the captain asked and sees if there are any survivors from the Thresher.
Adular , still in the water, does as the captain asked and sees if there are any survivors from the Thresher.
1d20+6
Horatio, realizing that Adular will be in the waters almost alone, and noticing that Amen-set's words seem to be putting others on edge, carefully unslings his musket and passes it over to her.
"Amen-set, why don't you follow the padre and make sure he's safe," he says, giving her a friendly nod.
She looks from the newcomer to Adular and opens her mouth to say something, but then shuts it and nods to Horatio.
Taking the musket she leaps over the side of the ship and follows after him, flying somewhat clumsily in the air about forty feet over the water, the musket loose in her hands.
Anasrianna acquiesces to your requests and takes off her holy symbol and spell components and submits to a search. You remover her items and see that there are a large number of magical goods and gear on her but none overly powerful. Her sword, shield, armor, headband, ring, amulet, and clothes all radiate magical energy of one type or another.
She looks at each of you in turn and says My thanks for your welcome and I understand the need for caution. However if I am to bring Dhaavan of Clan Idolis back from the Boneyard, I will need them back once our discussion is finished, although I would like for Dhaavan to have a say as well. I can discuss the spell I am to cast with one of you who is learned in the divine arts if that will allay suspicion?
She turns to Brightscale and says, Lay down my sweet. These people mean me no harm.
The creature turns and looks at each of you as well before nodding and laying down, trying to stay out of the way of your sailors working on making the ship ready. Giving a massive yawn, you see the massive number of teeth and muscle in his jaw, not unlike a crocodile or alligator. Now that you see him up close, you see that what you thought was mottled brown was actually studded leather barding, custom made to fit his size and shape. He also has a collar around his neck as well that seems custom made.
When Neko hisses at him, he looks curiously at her before laying his head down on deck.
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Variel nods his appreciation to Anasrianna as he sees multiple magical items flash before him, Thank you for understanding. Now that that formality is out of the way I feel safe enough to listen to what you have to say and why you are here. Please explain what brings you at this time and moreso why and how.
With something of a bit of regret, Seijiro removes his healing belt, which he treasures, though he rarely has time to use it, and dons the new belt from the treasure hoard of the Sahuagin.
"Adular, this belt might be something you could use, would definitely up your healing abilities, as you can use it to heal others or yourself."