PFS 6–05: Slave Ships of Absalom (Inactive)

Game Master Wilmannator

As the group heads out to the pier, Cyrus hangs in the back of the group. While his heart felt as though it would beat out of his chest back in the office, the pace and force of its beat slows considerably while they walk.

Been a while since I needed to do that, I forgot how much of a rush it is...

Approaching the docks, and the dwarf, Cyrus takes a moment to let the next step of this adventure sink in. After all, the last time he got in a fight on a boat he had an all too close brush with death.

The dwarf's command snaps him out of his reverie, and even elicits a chuckle. You let that little sleepy-eyed halfling talk about you like that? He smiles to the pilot.

I quite think that everything Ginsi said was sarcastically opposite of the truth. Cyrus mused out loud, mostly to himself. Except for the bit about someone like Amaranti rowing a boat out to a slaving vessel... The last thought sobers Cyrus up for a moment, wiping the smile off his face. With a resolute sigh, he moves to get into the boat.

Sensing the pilot's potential displeasure at what she sees, he decides a little show is in order, if at least to put her mind at ease. He winks at Zigil and ever so smoothly bends over into a handstand. He pauses for a moment, and pushes off, (Acrobatics, for flavor: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (14) + 9 = 23) executing a full backwards somersault flip in the air before landing deftly on his feet in the center of the boat, creating nary a ripple in the water.

He bows, smiles, and offers his hand to the surly dwarf. At least they don't call you Vigil Zigil for your attention to detail. That would just be rude don't you think? His smile and sincerity is genuine.

Zigil doesn't crack a smile or even raise an eyebrow at Cyrus's performance. She doesn't go so far as to refuse his handshake, however.

"Yes," she replies.

Should we pick up some disguises? I for one am a little bit leery about rowing out to a pirate ship looking like pathfinders. And do we have to take on the whole pirate ship?

See the discussion tab for more on this. I should also mention that low-light conditions (at best) prevail.

"Pilot Zigil, may I offer you a taste of the bounty of the Drunken Hero? Or would that be Captain Zigil? My apologies if I got it wrong... Perhaps you'd like another beer?"

Gunari cannot imagine a situation where a dwarf would turn down a beer, and perhaps he, he thinks, he can get the dwarf to the talk a little more.

"While it might be a little odd, having such a large group of us, perhaps we can come up with a cover story. I, for sure, can help in the rowing... Well, so can all of us, but at least I will be believable." he looks as the smaller folk, grinning, obviously he is pulling Findarin's leg. "Hopefully it won't matter, as we can hopefully rush them. Hmm.., climbing and jumping is not easy in this mail, and it is heavy. Does anyone have a spare Mage armor to cast in me if I take it off? Or should I go buy something cheap in the market? At least Cayden's barley wine has made me hale and hearty, so I can take a hit. Does anyone have non-lethal weapons? I fear my skill is primarily in the rapier, The Accidental Hero's preferred weapon. Just sayin'"

Miro glances on Gunari incredulously. "Perhaps a bit more discretion would be advised, my friend. Our good pilot here needs to focus on getting us through this maze safely." He chuckles, shrugging. The dwarf seemed as though they could tell her they meant to sail to the Nine Hells and she would steadfastly man the rudder, guiding them on with nary a facial expression.

In a more quiet voice to those around him, "Are we going to rush them? What was the point of getting paperwork of authority if we just charge in? Or is that better than trying to put on a ruse? I say we proceed as though we are inspectors and stick together. Any suggestions from you guys?"

Standing at the pier, Ibid listens to his fellow pathfinder, Gunari, while watching the young acrobat tumble gracefully into the small rowboat.

"If we are to attempt taking this Okeno pirate, Captain Wardak, alive, I will need to stop off and purchase a sap before we set out. I can pick anyone else up one as well, if they would like. My first choice would be to use one of these, to take her down, and hopefully stay out of her reach," the old man says, motioning to the stash of blunt arrows resting in the quiver on his back. "But it is considerably harder to keep from doing lasting damage, then to outright kill, even with a blunt arrow."

"I'll also pick up at least one set of manacles as well, on the off chance we are able to take this Waheeda Wardak alive."

"Zigil, if I may, do the rowers which would normally accompany these registered pilots travel as well armed as we six?" asks Ibid, turning to Zigil and tapping his index finger upon his chin, obviously lost in thought. "If this amount of weaponry is abnormal for the standard rower to have on their person, we may need a tarp or blanket, to hide our arsenal from the sight of any sentries aboard the Kat Season while we approach."

"And, I do agree with Master Miro," the old man nods to his compatriot. "A bit of subterfuge to help us board the vessel, could increase our odds of success. At least then, we won't be attempting to scale the sides of Kat Season through a hail of crossbow bolts. In addition to Miro's suggestion, if we could approach undetected, a few of our more agile members could climb aboard and remain hidden while those remaining make their way up to the deck, in plain view, as inspectors, and help distract their crew while we get into position to launch the assault on our terms."

Ibid offers to purchase saps for the other's if they would like, and asks is there is any additional equipment the others think they may need during this engagement.

Ibid will buy 1 sap (1 gp), unless anyone else would like one, in which case he will buy more, and one set of manacles (15 gp).

Miro politely declines the sap. If a strike from him would be mortal, the man or woman was doomed to die, anyway.

"I don't need equipment, but I can potentially put a few of the pirate's cohorts out of commission with some well-placed spells. Hopefully we can get them to cluster up. If not, then I will sing and sling, like the halfling heroes of old. If there are any." Miro grins at his companions.

Pilot Zigil barely raises an eyebrow as Gunari offers her the beer. The priest of Cayden Cailean believes he sees at least a small twinkle in her eye at the mention of her people's favorite beverage.

"No," she replies.

"Oh, great to see you guys are getting along so well!" comes the cheery and familiar voice of Inspector Ginsi, "And good to catch you before you set off. Lady Darchana has sent you a few things to help you in your endeavors." The halfling sets down a small brown sack. Inside, you can hear the clinking of glass on glass.

Inside are four clearly labelled items: potions of cure light wounds (2), thunderstones (2) and a note that says, 'Use them well.' Please just post that you take one (or more) of these items. Don't worry about asking if someone else minds, first come first served.

Ginsi sees fit to answer Ibid's question on Zigil's behalf, "You are certainly better armed than most rowers - though the rowers to go armed. Most do not carry a lance, however. Ibid, you could probably board without raising attention, as could Gunari in some lighter armor. Cyrus, too, if he hid that sickle and opened his shirt a little. Amaranti could perhaps disguise his lance as an oar in the dim lighting conditions. Miro and Finarin, I'm afraid it would be very hard for them to believe either of you are rowers. Finarin could perhaps pass as an inspector of some kind, but it would need to be something that wouldn't tip them off. In all, I'd say you could get three of you on board, with some fancy talking, before they'd expect Pilot Zigil here to come up with you.

"We have as many sailor's outfits and tarps as you could possibly want. You're welcome to them all," Ginsi indicates the crew quarters and supply shed, "As for manacles, all we have is rope. I dare say they'll have plenty of manacles on board, however. Do you need anything else?"

@Miro: The paperwork authority was to get legal permission from the Harbormaster to do exactly what you're about to do. Showing them the paperwork would most definitely not be a good idea.

"No problem. Amaranti can row, is good exercise", the Garundi says enthusiastically, waving his arms in a motion that actually looks a bit more like paddling than rowing. "How big is the boat? Amaranti has a friend, Kaisharga, who look not like a rower. Can we hide it under tarp if room in boat?"

". Hmm.., climbing and jumping is not easy in this mail, and it is heavy. Does anyone have a spare Mage armor to cast in me if I take it off? ... Does anyone have non-lethal weapons? I fear my skill is primarily in the rapier, The Accidental Hero's preferred weapon. Just sayin'"

"Amaranti has stick with this spell, can use on Gunari if he wants" As for non-lethal weaponry, Amaranti scratches his head for a moment, turns his lance around and gives it a few strikes. After some experiments, he shakes his head disapprovingly. "Maybe Amaranti tries to hit less hard..."

The row boat they selected for you is a large one. It is occasionally also used to rescue sailors who attempt to sail the Ships' Graveyard without a pilot and fail. Kaisharga can fit under a tarp. I'll assume Amaranti summons his eidolon and does so.

Also, don't worry about nonlethal damage when facing off against anyone except the captain (and even then...).

Yes, Amaranti will summon Kaisharga, since there is a way to hide it in the boat.

Ah gentlemen, it seems that is particular part of the mission is a bit ... unwieldy for me. I will do my best to stay unobtrusive and .... unnoticed. But Gunari, my strength might surprise you." Finarin grins a rare, joyful grin. He happily allows the others to formulate the plans.

Whispering to Ibid, "I'll take a sap if you please." Bouncing it up and down he contemplates striking the good pirate captain right upside the head.

Alrighty, noted.

Miro nods at Ginsi. If there is any dark or neutral-colored sailor's clothing, he accepts it, putting it on over his more brightly-colored garb.

"I will remain unobtrusive and board when appropriate."

After his quick excursion to pick up a few saps and a set of manacles, Ibid returns and passes one of the indelicate weapons to his elven friend. "It's not my first choice either," the old man says with a sigh, looking over his shoulder longingly toward his longbow.

A moment later, Ibid has removed the longbow previously slung diagonally across his body and places it, along with a compliment of arrows, in the bottom of the cutter. After replacing the tarp covering, Ibid steps ungracefully into the small vessel, shooting a nervous grin at the young rogue. As the rowboat rocks and rolls, Ibid clutches at Cyrus for balance.

"Always showing off, my friend," Ibid says referring to Cyrus' acrobatic stunts, tumbling into the boat. After a few moments, Ibid releases his clutching grip on Cyrus' forearm, and appears to regain his balance, so long as he remains sitting. "Just be careful this time, and try to remember what happened aboard the Lionfish off the coast of Riddleport."

Cyrus unbuttons the top couple of buttons on his shirt and strikes a dashing sailor pose.

"My friend Gunari, I don't think you will need to worry too much about the lethality of your weapon. I think we can subscribe to the theory that when the first one falls to our blades, if the rest don't surrender, then they only have themselves to blame when they are knocking on fate's door. I don't have much pity for slavers anyways."

Cyrus nods at Ibid's reminder of the Lionfish. "Not that I would willingly put myself in that position again, but I do remember your reaction was rather... effective," Cyrus says with a sly grin.

After helping the old man aboard the boat, Cyrus takes a sap from Ibid's stockpile as he continues, "Now our little weedwacker captain, on the other hand.... I won't shed any tears if she falls, but her value in capture is worth the extra effort in trying to keep her alive." He chuckles at the apparent clumsiness of Ibid as he sits.

I remember the way he handled himself in those slippery caves during our confirmation, maybe he just doesn't trust his old bones...

Whispering to Ibid from the corner of his mouth, "Thanks for thinking of the sap, and the manacles, and the other stuff..."

"As for our plan, I like Miro's idea of getting aboard as inspectors, and I like Ibid's suggestion of having some of us sneak aboard before we launch our ambush. I would be happy to volunteer if my stealth skills are better suited to that portion of the plan." With that he sits in the rowboat, smiling, eating an apple that has suddenly appeared from his sleeve.

Finarin looks at the dirty sailor clothes. He instinctively reaches for his silken rag to wipe the grease and grim off the threadbare clothing. He realizes that it would be a futile task and quickly squirrels the rag away. Pulling the clothing over him, he gracefully enters the boat.

Once in the boat he turns to the other Pathfinders, "We should have a plan of action once we reach the ... ship. Once aboard, Cyrus and Ibid should concentrate on the ... Lady Captain, while Gunari, Amaranti, Kaisharga, Miro, and I take on the ... dross. Thoughts friends?"

I just read those posts. Classic. Ibid 4 Cyrus 4EVA. Ahem. Sorry. Great to have other PbPs to point to as an historical record!

Inspector Ginsi looks skeptically at Ibid's longbow, "Are you daft? No sailor in his right mind would use such a tool, except perhaps in ship-to-ship combat. It's far too unwieldy to use in close quarters. Most sailors prefer a hand weapon that can also be thrown, like a dagger or hand axe. Some use pre-loaded crossbows, but a drawn bow both takes too long and can get caught up in all kinds of stuff on deck. Best to leave it under the tarp for good... no sense in taking that on board." There are no Pathfinder mechanical reasons why a longbow is an inappropriate weapon for on-deck combat. Only flavorful reasons. Also, did you edit your post? I could swear you were asking Ginsi about it when I first read it.

I'll give you guys a little while longer to discuss tactics, and then we'll pull up alongside the Kat Season to get things started some time this afternoon CDT.

Cyrus pulls two daggers from hidden spots somewhere on his person and hands them to Ibid. "These could be useful. If we are lucky you won't need any more than that," the suddenly overconfident ninja says with a smile.

Under his breath he says "What does she know anyways, those blunt arrows would be ideal if I can't get the captain down in one shot with this handy sap..."

"I like where your head is at Finarin. I bet Ibid could board as the inspector, with Finarin and Amaranti as his, *ahem* assistants, if you pardon my meaning."

Even suggesting they pretend to be slaves is uncomfortable...

"Gunari could board as his armed muscle, though it might be advisable to conceal your holy symbol until the time is right, with apologies to the drunken hero. And I just had a sudden thought. What if Miro posed as a Pilot in training? I have no doubt Miro that you could fool anyone with that smile and charm. I could then sneak aboard from behind and try to get in a position to surprise the captain. Just a thought, but that might be a good excuse to get so many of us aboard..."

At the suggestion of having Gunari hide his holy symbol, Cyrus takes a minute to make sure his precious Wayfinder is properly concealed. EDIT Cyrus grabs one of the potion bottles and a thunderstone, for good measure.

Gunari had joined Ibid in his quick trip to the market, and picks up the following items (to help with his cover).

• Chain Shirt (unless he can't wear it under his clothes, then he'll get an armored coat)
  
• 2 potions: Touch of the Sea
  
• 5 doses Alchemist's kindness (heals a hangover... no idea why Gunari would want this!)
  
• Healer's Kit
  

Total cost 255gp, or 205gp if I need t go with the armored coat.

He will also take one of the CLW potions, and keep it available... in case he goes down, anyone can use it on him!

"Ibid, if it makes more sense, you could use my short bow. Cayden knows I can barely use the thing! And I should think that the more dextrous of us should use the tanglefoot bags. I would be afraid of dropping the damned things on myself!"

Gunari thinks about things a moment, and then continues, "You know, perhaps I could just pose as a healer. We could claim that there have been some instances of plague coming in on slave ships, or maybe just ships coming in from foreign lands, and we need to check the crew, passengers, and cargo to be safe. It could just work, especially if I am not the one doing the talking!"

I forgot... Gunari also buys a buckler.

Ibid will follow Gunari's lead and also buy a buckler and two Touch of the Sea potions. Thanks for the heads up on that great call, Gunari!

The group of intrepid investigators finishes boarding the rowboat. Only when everyone else is aboard does Pilot Zigil set her sturdy feet down on the aft of the rowboat. She holds the lantern aloft, and aims the beam of light to the left. "Port," she says, in a voice that would not be out of place coming from an incredibly strict teacher. Zigil points the light to the right, "Starboard." Finally, she lights water in the front of the ship, "Forwards."

"Clear?" when the pathfinders nod like cowed school children she repeats, "Forwards." Amaranti and Gunari row the boat safely from the pier and out into the black, flotsam strewn waters of Ships' Graveyard.

Absalom’s harbor is an inky, shifting landscape of shadows at night, illuminated only by the city’s lights, the waxing moon, and the distant blaze of the Absalom Lighthouse on Pilot’s Island. Eventually, a three-masted ship with white sails comes into view. It’s just over one hundred feet in length, and its bowsprit is a weatherworn representation of a canine-headed mermaid. The crew is busy as they await an escort through the Ship’s Graveyard. A rope ladder hangs from the rail of its starboard to a foot above the waterline.

As they approach the Kat Season most of the pathfinders notice that the letters K- and -SON have been hurriedly painted on. They are a slightly different size to the rest of the letters, and paint dribbles can be seen around their edges.

On the top deck, two cackling figures with heads that resemble a dog's hold onto the rope ladder to try and keep it steady. The group recognizes these humanoids as gnolls. Lucky for the pathfinders, a low mist covers your rowboat and you doubt gnoll crew members would be able to see how many you are. As the first pathfinder nears the top of the ladder, he can see the scowling face of the half-orc first mate, Curtzog (according to the ledger). His lower canines are even more elongated than usual for a half-orc, and his close-set eyes combined with his thick, low brow give the impression that he is a very unintelligent creature.

Climbing the rope ladder is the easiest way aboard the ship. The boat sways from side to side in the not-quite still waters, and it is a DC 10 climb check. I strongly recommend taking 10 if it will get you there. There are no points for exceeding the check, and quite a penalty for failing. Any sailor worth his salt would just climb it.

Okay everyone, let me know how you're getting aboard. I've put a map of the At Sea here. The top map is actually belowdecks (yeah, I should have done it the other way in Photoshop... sorry). I'll remove the grey bit when you get down there. I have placed you roughly where the rowboat is. The bright green square is where the rope ladder is.

I have also made a heap of private rolls, mostly disguise and perception. I gave you significant circumstance bonuses due to your absolutely stellar preparation. You will be pleased to know that your disguises are absolutely fantastic and have the crew of the At Sea completely fooled - for now. Wait until you open your mouths. ;-)

GM - Is it feasible to climb to a different area of the boat and not use the rope ladder? Based on the situation as it is, that might not be necessary, but I would like to make an informed decision...

Anything is possible! There are a number of things you can grab onto, but the surface is completely sheer - almost angled towards you in places. The rocking of the ship won't make it easy either. DC 25.

Thought the sails were supposed to be yellow?

Miro frowns as they approach, the ladder seeming a bit of an obstacle to him, even. Reluctantly, he shrugs out of his chain shirt, leaving it in the boat to make the climb and stealthing easier. He will wait for the others to board before sneaking aboard. Taking 10 for a net whopping 11.

@Finarin: You are correct about the yellow sails. These sails, even in the dim lantern light, are plainly white.sails can be switched out, though, and Finarin is canny enough to realize that if they bothered to change the name of the ship, they'd probably have changed the sails also.

Miro ascends the latter with only a few gut-wrenching moments as he ship sways this way or that. He reaches the top and is helped on board by the two gnolls, who leer at him as he sets foot on the deck. It is Curtzon that speaks however, from a short way across the deck, "Well, I guess I should be welcomin' ye aboarrd tha At... *cough*... tha Kat Season," his voice is deep and gravelly and he is definitely just going through the motions. He peers behind Miro and adds, "Wharr's me pilot?"

When you lie to these mopes, please make your bluff rolls also. I will make their sense motive checks in the open. No need for disguise rolls, as I mentioned earlier you have them completely fooled on that front - as indicated by their helpfulness and complete boredom at the whole set of proceedings.

I'll roll with it if you want, but I stated that I was going to wait until the others got on (that way I could be sneaky sneaky). :)

Oops! That last part will apply to the first person to climb aboard then. Sorry, Miro.

I will climb up 4th and take 10 for an exact Climb 10

If am to pose as the inspector, I can climb up first and respond to the First Mate, Curtzog. Also, the post below is Ibid trying to buy time for the group to get into position, by droning on and on to the crew of the Kat Season. Sorry the length of this post. By no means should anyone feel the need to read the whole thing, not even the GM :)

After checking to make sure the sap and buckler are secured on his person, Ibid ascends the ladder and welcomes the help of the knolls to reach the deck.

Ibid will take 10 on the climb up the ladder. 10 + (6) = 16

Once on board, but before responding to the half-orc, the old man removes his hat and wipes the sweat from his brow with the sleeve of his jacket. A moment later, Ibid rustles through his satchel and pulls out his large, weatherworn journal, and flips to a blank page.

"Good evening, Sir. Your certified pilot will be up in a few moments. However, there is just a procedural question or two for which you will need to confirm the answers, before your pilot is authorized to take you into the docks. No need to worry, these go very quickly, they're are basically just boxes to be checked for the quill pusher up in the Accounting Guild, trying to squeeze out and tax every last copper from the fair and noble traders visiting our city," Ibid begins, trying to buy time for the others to climb up or make themselves hidden.

The old man readies his quill to write the half-orc responses as they are spoken, fully prepared to plaster a cheerful smile on his face and nod in thanks to each answer given. "Now, I see from the ledger that your vessel is called the Kat Season. Could you please confirm this?"

"Additionally, this vessel makes birth in Sedeq, Qadira. Is this correct?" Ibid stops and thinks for a moment, trying to this of a story to buy more time for his friends. "You know, I once knew a pirate captain who sailed out of Sedeq. Ol' Captain Lopdoop Schalongly, he was quite a character. He once killed a Chelish naval officer, took the monkey handles from the uniform of the corpse and then wore those same epaulettes on his own jacket upside-down."

"Anyway, sorry about that. I got lost in one of my stories, and I promised you this would be quick! Lastly, it would appear you have a fresh set of slaves inbound for sale or trade within the city. I will need a declaration of the estimated value of this cargo, and access to your hold to verify this declared value for myself." Ibid pauses for a moment, "Again, the quill pusher... for tax purposes, you know."

Following a few taps of his quill on the open journal, Ibid attempts to channel what knowledge of sailing he may have to attempt a fleeting bond between sailors with the half-orc. "See, it's just a few simple questions and a small inspection, and then you'll be on your way into the city. You'll be in and out of Absalom before you know it," Ibid stops to notice the northerly wind drifting across the deck at that moment. "Expect this beautiful tramontana blowing it's way up from Garund might make your travels back south a bit tougher. You certainly won't be plying the Inner Sea on a full beam reach all the way home. You're as like to be in irons, most likely tacking your way to Qadira, or close-hauled if you're very lucky," the old man laughs to himself, before feigning it has just come to him that he is wasting everyone's time.

"Now, as you are bringing slaves into the city, I must also bring to your attention that there has been precipitous outbreaks of various diseases within the section of Absalom known as Misery Row, due to unhygienic quality of recent 'living' cargo brought into the city by various traders. These outbreaks are basically under control, but it my duty to alert of this condition for two reasons," Ibid holds up his finger toward the half-orc.

"One: The city of Absalom takes no liability for any damage or expiration of living property brought within it limits due to any perceived unfavorable living conditions."

And raising a second finger, ibid continues, "Two: The city of Absalom shall provide personnel to inspect for, and treat, any unfavorable diseases deemed hazardous for all vessel transporting 'live' cargo within the city of Absalom, in order to stem to the tide of these outbreaks. My associate, Mr. Gunari, has been brought along to fulfill this responsibility."

bluff w/ one use of Inspiration: 1d20 - 1 + 1d6 ⇒ (18) - 1 + (1) = 18

Let me know if I need to make a sense motive check, or any additional check for this monologue :)

Cyrus watches his companions start to go up one by one, and hears the chatter of Ibid as he addresses the deckhands.

Where does he get this from? Seems like he knows everything...

Wanting to give his group the element of surprise, and perhaps show off a bit by knocking out someone from behind with this handy new sap, Cyrus, definitely foolishly, steps off the side of the boat in an attempt to scale the sheer side of the boat.

Climb: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22

I had to look up how the failure works, and thankfully, when you fail by less than 4 you just make no progress... Though I may have put myself in a very precarious position...

His fingers, arms, shoulders, toes and legs all strain and burn as he clings to the side of the ship, but the gentle rocking motion prevents him from moving anywhere.

Thiiiiis might be one of the more stupid things you have done....

@Ibid: Wow. Just wow. Contrary to what Ibid said, if you didn't read the full thing, go back and do so. Stellar work. I've got rolls at the very bottom because it makes the most sense to read the story first.

@Cyrus: Wow. Just wow. Actually laughing out loud. You needed a 19+ and you still went for the climb? Sorry, still laughing.

Curtzog impatiently listens to Ibid's story, pacing the decks. The gnolls quickly tire of Ibid's droning and return to their unfriendly game of "you flinched", completely missing that you are not supposed to hit the opponent, just make them think you will. The canny investigator is able to maneuver the first mate over to the port side of the ship, staring out into the waters of the bay and towards far off Sedeq (with the gnolls barking "Ow!", "Vostè es va estremir!*").

This allows the pathfinders the time they need to climb aboard unnoticed - except perhaps the embattled Cyrus, clinging for dear life to the side of the ship.

"Knock it off'n get tha Cap'n!" yells Curtzog to one of the gnolls, "She'll need t'be makin' wi' tha declarin' o' goods. Tell 'er t'bring tha ledgarr." The last gnoll to flinch disappears belowdecks, shoulders slumped.

Listening with growing concern regarding disease, Curtzog replies, "Best t'be bringin' tha healarr on board, then." He pauses for a moment in thought before turning to the remaining gnoll, "Get tha slaves. One't a time, mind. They'll be needin' checkin' out."

That gnoll heads below just as the last one arrives back above decks with a woman who must be Captain Waheeda Wardak. She is obviously a Keleshite, is dressed in studded leather and wears two ornately decorated kukris at her waist. Her black hair is held out of her face by a faded yellow bandana. She has a dark mole on her left cheek just below her eye. She is carrying what appears to be the ship's ledger.

In a tired and very annoyed voice, she addresses Curtzog, "Now, what is the meaning of this?"

"Health inspectarrs," sneers Curtzog, not responding well to Waheeda's annoyance, "Come t'check tha slaves f'r disease."

Any time from when the first gnoll disappears, you can spring an attack (initiative rolls below). You will definitely get in a surprise round. Waheeda Wardak will arrive 1d4+2 rounds after you attack if you decide to do it before she arrives. Alternatively, when she arrives or see how this plays out. Feel free to discuss a little on the discussion tab (boring) or just leap in (what fun)!

Cyrus, you can have a reduced climb DC to 15 (surface with adequate handholds DC 10, boat's motion +5), but you'll need to use windowsills of the portholes to climb up. As such, you'll also need to make a stealth roll or be spotted (and be almost automatically spotted by anyone with low-light vision or better). I will also allow you to drop back into the boat (DC 10 acrobatics) and just use the ladder.

Cyrus takes a few quick breaths to center his focus, and calm his suddenly racing heartbeat.

You can do this, you can do this, don't panic...

Cyrus, unsure if his foothold will even stay on the boat, reaches for a nearby porthole, and closes his eyes.

Climb: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17

Whew

Whew... He thinks as his fingers find purchase, and he slowly works his way up the side of the ship, inch by inch. His arms and legs burn as he finally grips the top rail and pulls himself over.

Uhh... hopefully no one notices me now

Stealth: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (2) + 9 = 11

Miro sneaks over the side, seeing Ibid engaged with the half-orc mate. The halfling hunches over and carefully moves to the right, taking care to place his feet on solid-looking planks of the deck. Seeing the gnoll (and any others over there, he begins chanting softly, waving his hands emphatically as he preps a spell.

Casting 'Sleep', which is a full-round action. This was my standard, so it will consume a move action on my next turn.

My vote was 'fun'.

Forgot to mention, Wardak hasn't surveyed the ship yet. If you would like to remain unnoticed, stealth rolls please. If you just want to attack when she appears, no need. She won't likely be as happy as her first mate to see 6 armed individuals aboard her illegally docked ship... place yourselves where you like (you were aware she was coming, so favorable positions are fine) and have that surprise round should you choose!

Didnt notice Miro's post. I'm not sure of the mechanics of splitting an action between surprise and regular rounds. Let's just say that Miro's cast sets off the surprise round.

Waheeda will save: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (8) + 2 = 10

The half-orc and gnoll are both stunned into silence as their captain falls to the ground and begins snoring softly.

Gunari, upon being mentioned, makes his way up the rope ladder. With his new armor (AC16... gah!) he is at a +0 on his climb check -- without the buckler on. climb: 10 + 0 = 10. He glares a little at Ibid during the dissertation, partially for rambling, and partially for giving his real name. 'So what if I wouldn't have remembered whatever alias he gave me. You never give your real name when you are on a scam'

"Yeah, um, I'm Dr. Gunari. *hic*" He plays up the sway of the ship, with the swagger of a drunk. "Them bastards in Abs'lom make me come an' inspect all da 'cargo', just 'cause dey I couldna save dat guard a while back. Ain't me fault I was drunk when dey came, right? You know what I mean?" bluff - GM add any circumstance or RP bonuses: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (6) + 0 = 6

When he notices Miro starting to chant, he quickly continues, while slipping on his buckler. "Dis here be my 'prentice. He just castin' a purifisomfin spell... to make it clean here. I gots to channel the Drunken Hero as well... makin' me see disease and whatnot." Gunari casts Shield of Faith, making his AC 18. The horror! The profound lack of metal protecting his precious skin!

Amaranti climbs the ladder slowly, quite nervous about the dark body of water below him. While climbing, he tries hard to figure out a role for himself in this play. Therefore, the Garundi is rather relieved to discover the fun has already started, and no more need for masquerade.
Climb, take 10: 10 + 4 - 1 = 13

Hearing Miro and Gunari beginning their spellcasting, Amaranti joins the chant. Cast Shield on himself

Gunari, you succeed without the bonuses, but you share the +7 with Ibid (your good RP continues the +5 bonus, the disguise is still in effect for the other +2). He set 'em up, you all knock 'em down... so to speak. Also, Curtzog got a 4 on sense motive. You're all good.

Reading over the initiative rolls, I noticed that I completely neglected to relay the results of your (largely) stonkingly good perception rolls. Here it is:

As they position themselves on the deck, the pathfinders notice the following things:

• Firstly, there are several large, bright yellow sails concealed beneath some canvases, along with a large tin of paint and an uncleaned brush stuck by its own dried paint to the deck next to it. The paint is the same color as the K- -SON portion of the sign, and more or less the same color as the -AT SEA- portion.
  
• Secondly, the grates above the deck are made of quite a flimsy wood.
  
• Lastly, Kaisharga can see past the grating (with his very special eyes) four slaves chained to the deck below.

Ninja Amaranti! Everyone act as you post for the surprise round. The initiative groupings for round 1 will be:

Ibid, Amaranti, Cyrus, Finarin, Wardak, Gnoll 1, Gnoll 2 (belowdecks), Curtzog, Miro, Gunari, Kaisharga.

Amaranti, I'll let you post Kaishgara's actions with yours if you like. They won't take effect until after the baddies have acted, but it'll save you having to wait a whole day (potentially, from your timezone) to be able to post Kaishgara's next turn.

Cyrus hops over the rails to the deck and remains as still as possible for a few moments, hoping to enhance his not so great attempt at sneakiness. He is relieved to know that only a few seconds later, any failures of his to remain unseen are rendered moot, as his comrades pounce on the immediate opportunity for the relative upper hand. He smiles as he sees the captain crumple with a sudden case of narcolepsy.

He doesn't hesitate to press the advantage, moving quickly over to the gnoll next to the captain, drawing his sickle on the way, and taking a slash at the still reacting deckhand.

Attack v Flatfooted: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (11) + 6 = 17 for Damage w/ Sneak Attack: 1d6 + 1 + 1d6 ⇒ (2) + 1 + (1) = 4

Gunari uses his trained eye to determine the weaknesses of the grates.
Kn:Engineering: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (16) + 6 = 22 Another great roll! He's holding back for now, since we didn't set up a Message spell... but he looks at the grates, and smiles.

Before his eyes, Captain Waheeda Wardak slumps to the deck ungracefully and unconscious. As Gunari speaks and begins to apply his equipment, the old man is roused from his nearly incoherent stammering and quickly moves across the deck toward the sleeping captain, grateful this motion is also moving himself away from the tower half-orc, first mate.

Ibid draws the newly purchased set of manacles from his satchel while moving across the deck, as his eyes survey the grating to the ship's hold, attempting to study their structural condition. In a hurried rush, Ibid works to get the Captain's arms behind her back and into the bindings.

Knowledge(engineering): 1d20 + 7 + 1d6 ⇒ (11) + 7 + (4) = 22

Belowdecks, the pathfinders here something of an argument filtering up through the grate. It's not loud enough to be distinguishable, but one of the voices belongs to a gnoll.

That strange diplomacy check again: 1d20 + 0 ⇒ (6) + 0 = 6

In his excitement, Cyrus's attack isn't quite as deadly as he is used to. However, it still draws a long line of blood along the deckhand's arm. The gnoll snarls in pain as it continues to fumble for the cutlass at his side.

Ibid expertly flips the captain over and binds her hands with the manacles. She awakes groggily, "Wha'? S'goin' on..."

Seeing that the captain is evidently taken care of... Gunari takes an interesting opportunity (goes recklass, whatever).

"Cayden Cailean, Guide my folley!" (casts Guidance) He steps out onto the weakened grate, while drawing his rapier, hoping it will collapse under his weight. He definitely hopes to land on his feet, but doesn't expect it (he really didn't think this through).

acrobatics to land semi-safely: 1d20 - 1 + 1 ⇒ (15) - 1 + 1 = 15 This should be a DC15 Acrobatics to avoid the first 10' of damage... if he takes damage, he'll still be prone

Quick post so the game can move on... Amaranti attacks the half-orc. Draws lance during move

Lance attack: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (13) + 6 = 19
Damage, AS: 1d8 + 6 + 1 ⇒ (8) + 6 + 1 = 15