To Rule the Razor! (Inactive)

Game Master Eric Swanson

A varied band of intrepid adventurers, led by a beautiful priestess from a faraway land, travel to Port Shaw to spread the word of Horus. Little do they realize the denizens of Port Shaw have their own agenda...

Current Date: 10 Pharast (March) 4715 AR.
T plus 10 days.

Time Check: Mid morning, Day 10.

COMBAT MAP


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Derp, my last post is what happens when I post late - I forget rather important details like not being able to see my target! Also, if anyone wants any further dialogue with Jacinth here, I'm happy to backfill.

Jacinth lowers her bow, breathing a sigh of relief. "Yes, good work all. Everyone may return to their posts...or to their beds, whichever you were manning." Feeling a dull pounding in her head, she turns to head back below deck before pausing to look back at the others. "By the way Aikane, that was glorious but I would prefer that you not behave as though you have a death wish the next time we cross paths with something foul. It would be nice to actually return to Port Shaw with all of my crew this time." She takes a step or two down the stairs before pausing again and calling, "Oh and Nef? If you're going to make flying while inebriated a habit, I will have to insist that we fashion some method of keeping you in your seat if there is not one already. To everyone else, good night...or rather, good morning. I will see some of you in a few hours providing nothing else attempts to make a meal of us between now and then." The elven woman then continues below deck and returns to her cabin, wearily putting her weapons away before flopping back into bed.


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M Human (Tulita) Alchemist (Chirurgeon) L9/Barbarian L1 | AC 19 | HP69/69 | Saves F10 R8 W4 | Percep +8 | Init +2 | Bombs: 16/16 | Status: 100%

About to drop the catalyst into the bomb, Ke' stopped as he saw the creature roll over and sink into the depths.
He stared at the empty sea, his thoughts dark.
Slowly he returned his bomb back into its bandoleer.
Well, next time then laddie; I'll make a proper blazing funeral pyre for a friend..."
He turned and went back to the wardroom and clutched at the bottle again.


Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points

0530 Hours

Unable to sleep any longer, Nefertiti wakes up with a raging headache but a cleansed soul. Zem was not lost. He was out there, somewhere, helping their people and following the calling of his heart. After all this was over, she would find him again, or he would find her. He loves her. She knows this now, the doubts of the previous day banished.

She rolls out of her hammock, splashes her face with fresh water, and climbs to the deck to do her prayers. She nods to Reknar, Aikane, Maka and Dirty Pete, and then turns to face the sunrise. She feels renewed and lit from within. Raising her feather over her head, she communes with Horus, her spirit soaring with her god, wings outstretched and taking flight.

0630 Hours

Nef goes back down to the galley, and starts breakfast. As the oatmeal is cooking and the cold press coffee steeps, she cuts slices of fruit and fries bacon for the morning meal. Then, once everything is set up, she sets about delivering it to crew on duty. The off duty crew is still asleep, but the second round of breakfast is prepped and ready for her to cook before she wakes them at 0800 hours.

She feels somewhat healed, but then she thinks of someone that Zem left without any assurance of future love. She thinks of Ke'ahilani, and how painful it must have been to be left by a brother. She has loved Zem for two months. Lani loved him for years.

Zem, I love you. But when I find you again... chances are, I'm going to yell at you until my vocal chords give out for how you treated Lani when you left.

She finds Lani in the Wardroom and takes the gourd out of his hand, then gently wakes the witchdoctor. "Come on, Lani," she says, helping him up, and putting his arm around her shoulder so that he can balance. "You need to eat. And drink something that isn't from your gourd. And then... let's talk. Okay?"

She guides him out, making sure he gets a full meal into him.

"Lani, I miss him too, but the group needs both of us to be strong now." She looks at Lani, and takes his hand. "If you think you need to drink, come talk to me... Or if I think I need to drink again, maybe I can come talk to you? You're my guide now, but the learning flows in both directions, right? You can never teach someone without learning a little yourself. Let me help you Lani. Together we can get through this."


Once the menehune is treated for his injuries, the Rita once again resumes course leaving the devilfish to sink into the sea depths. As the early morning light bathes the ship, those sailors on duty see off in the distance a dark grey mass of clouds, interspersed with jagged flashes of lightning. This is a thunderstorm and a fairly intense on by the looks of it.

The morning sunrise is obscured by the clouds and there is a growing sense of trepidation among the crew concerning the storm, which is bearing down on you rather quickly. Being unable to avoid the storm, Jacinth orders the sails reefed (so they do not get torn to pieces by the high winds) and the hatches battened down.

The storm strikes the ship around mid morning, with driving sheets of rain accompanied by loud cracks of lightning and rolling booms of thunder. The waves crash against the Rita sending shudders through the vessel. Topside, the winds howl, threatening to drive the Rita far off her course....

I need the Helmsman (who I will allow you to designate in advance) to roll a Profession (Sailor) check here. I will allow two Aid Another checks here as well.

Time Check 1200 hours, Day 5.


Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points

Query for the Kraken: Does Nef remember from her Read Weather spell of yesterday how long this storm will last? If not, she will cast it again and see if she can get a clearer prediction now that we're closer to the event.
__________________________

0900 Hours, Day 5

Nef goes over the schedule with Jacinth quickly, doing a last minute shuffle to allow our most skilled hands to be on duty during the storm, to be relieved by other crew after it lets up.

"You're by far our most experienced person at the helm, Jacinth, though Reknar and Rata can both do quite well. Aikane, Reknar and Rata are the most likely to keep their footing in the tops. Whom do you want up there, if anyone? Will we even need topsmen if the sails are reefed?"

She looks over her notes, frantically changing names on the schedule. "I've banked the galley fires, and plan to serve an early cold snack for everyone before the storm hits. Both Wedjat and I will be down below, as neither of us are any good in storms. I may use the storm to try to catch up on sleep, with your permission, assuming that I can sleep in that sort of gale. Do you have anything else you need to prep for this?"


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Inactive

0900 Hours, Day 5

Jacinth thinks for a moment, furrowing her brow. "Yes, I think it would be best to have Rata, Reknar, and Aikane, assuming he is ready and able to return to duty for a time, on deck when this storm catches up with us. Once the sails are reefed I also believe it would be best for the men to stay clear of the tops until the storm abates somewhat, unless absolutely necessary. Watch will simply need to be kept to make sure that the sails are not loosened by the wind."

As Nef goes over the list of tasks she has either completed or plans to complete, the elven captain nods her head in approval. "A sound plan, every bit of it. We may not have the chance to eat again for some time and I certainly agree that you and Wedjat would be best positioned below deck for this. If you are able to find sleep amongst the storm, by all means take advantage of it. Otherwise, I cannot think of anything else that needs my immediate attention or needs to be prepped...oh!" Looking around, she procures some nearby rope. "Lifelines."

1200 Hours, Day 5

As the storm falls upon them with all its fury, Jacinth struggles with the rest of her on-duty crew to keep the Rita both afloat and on course, the whole of her attention focused on the task at hand. She finds herself feeling thankful for the presence of Rata and the others on deck with her, as she is certain that this is something that she could not have done on her own.

Profession: Sailor: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (14) + 7 = 21


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Tien Female Mutagenic Mauler 7 | HP 66/66 | AC (26)23/15/21| F+8(+11),R+8(+11),W+4(+7)(+2 v. , compulsion and emotions) | Init.+2, Perc.+11 | CMB +2 (+14 Bull Rush)(+13 Sunder); CMD 24 (26 v Bull Rush)(25 v Sunder)| while under effects of mutagen, gain +10 to speed, +2 to damage and low light vision.

The violent thunder wakes Oren, despite his best efforts. He notices Nef heading below deck and waves her off when she offers a snack. "Not for me, thanks. Need a few more hours for my stomach to get right again, later, I'll be hungry enough to eat an auroch, but now, I'll pass.".

He rolls over and again tries to get comfortable. "How bad does it look up there?"


Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points

0900 Hours

"Thank you, Captain." Then she pauses, and says, in a low voice, "Kaiku, this one looks bad. Please, all of you... be careful."

She clasps her friend's hand, then scurries below with storm schedule. When she sees Reknar, she says, "As much as you relish hard work... you're going to get a lot of it very soon. Best get a little rest for the next hour before this hits, okay?"

________________________

Day 5 Storm Schedule:

1200-0400 Storm Duty

Jacinth Helm
Reknar
Rata
Aikane Backup

0400-0800 Post Storm Deck Duty

Kaleo
Butterfly
Oren (Helm)
Nef and Lani Backup

0800-Onwards
Back to Normal Schedule


________________________

1145 Hours

She hoists herself up on the hammock next to Oren's, to better talk with him. "Not hungry? You?" She raises an eyebrow.

"I'm not really hungry either," she admits. "I'm being too much of a mama hen again, aren't I? That's how I best deal with stress -- taking care of people and bossing them around." She smiles ruefully.

Then she flops back and looks at the ceiling of the wardroom, the hammock already rocking back and forth to the storm. "I won't lie. This storm looks bad, Opu. And my schedule just assigned the people who have to go up and face it. Our friends. I'm worried about them..."

She pauses and turns back to Oren, her brown eyes wide. "The Kolohe is going to be facing this same storm. They have more stations to man then we do -- it's a bigger ship. And you know Zem. He'll have already volunteered to be up there, in the worst of it. Do you think they'll be okay?"

Please Horus, watch out for them... and us.

She reaches out and grabs his hand, and squeezes it tight. "By the way, thank you for helping put me back together yesterday. You're the best big brother a girl could ask for, you know that?"


Tien Female Mutagenic Mauler 7 | HP 66/66 | AC (26)23/15/21| F+8(+11),R+8(+11),W+4(+7)(+2 v. , compulsion and emotions) | Init.+2, Perc.+11 | CMB +2 (+14 Bull Rush)(+13 Sunder); CMD 24 (26 v Bull Rush)(25 v Sunder)| while under effects of mutagen, gain +10 to speed, +2 to damage and low light vision.

Oren keeps his back to Nef, so she won't see him smile. "Aw, you'll be fine, Nef. Keep your head up. And so will that other ship. As big as it it, it'd take a typhoon to bother them at all. Zem will get them all back to shore safely, don't worry. You and I will batten down the hatches down here, and ride it out. Those above deck are good enough to get us through this. Keep your faith alive. This just might be a really good day, who knows?"


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M Human (Tulita) Alchemist (Chirurgeon) L9/Barbarian L1 | AC 19 | HP69/69 | Saves F10 R8 W4 | Percep +8 | Init +2 | Bombs: 16/16 | Status: 100%

Before he went below...
Noticing Aikane was kinda injured, Ke' stumped over and looked him over critically. He looked at the bomb he still held in his hand.
"Eh, this should be good enough."
He seized Aikane's head and tipped it back. He uncorked the bomb and poured its contents down his throat, then popped open the mutagen case and put something down his throat he's probably glad he didn't quite see. Then he put his hand over Aikane's mouth.
"That should do the trick!" He said confidently.
Cure Moderate Wounds: 2d8 + 5 ⇒ (5, 2) + 5 = 12
A brief burst of fire and smoke erupted from Aikane's nose and ears; simultaneously healing, and clearing the sinuses.
"Ow!" Ke' exclaimed as he pulled his hand back from the flames.
He looked critically at the fine smoke still coming from Aikane's ears.
"Well, THAT's never happened before." He mused aloud.
"OK, that should go away after a while. Come to me tomorrow if it doesn't!" He said cheerily, then turned and stumped off to the wardroom again.
He turned back after a couple of steps.
"Oh! Hey, was that enough? Do you need more?" He asked innocently.


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M Human (Tulita) Alchemist (Chirurgeon) L9/Barbarian L1 | AC 19 | HP69/69 | Saves F10 R8 W4 | Percep +8 | Init +2 | Bombs: 16/16 | Status: 100%
Nef wrote:
"Come on, Lani," she says, helping him up, and putting his arm around her shoulder so that he can balance.

Ke' mumbled blearily, but allowed her to haul him upright.

Nef wrote:
"You need to eat. And drink something that isn't from your gourd. And then... let's talk. Okay?"

Ke's eyes popped open, suddenly approaching cold sober.

A woman says we need to talk? This can't be good! He thought in panic. He glanced around for possible avenues of escape, but only saw Wedjat deliberately nose the door shut and wheeze/cackle evilly.
Traitorous bastard! You'll pay for that! He swore mentally.
Stiffly, he patted her shoulder. Aloud he only said; "Ah, whats on your mind?"

Nef wrote:
"Lani, I miss him too, but the group needs both of us to be strong now." She looks at Lani, and takes his hand. "If you think you need to drink, come talk to me... Or if I think I need to drink again, maybe I can come talk to you? You're my guide now, but the learning flows in both directions, right? You can never teach someone without learning a little yourself. Let me help you Lani. Together we can get through this."

Ke' looked at her blankly, then frowned.

"You... think I am some kind of drunkard?"
He pushed her out to arms length.
"Nef. Zem and I... there was a time you could not tell us apart; in looks or manners. We were inseparable. But we had our fair share of fights even then." He looked away. "And while I wish we could be that again, well, we are very, very different now."
He stooped to pick up the gourd.
"Besides, there is nothing wrong with getting drunk. If it is in its proper place. The alcohol is a byproduct of several of the reactors I use to make potions. I have to get rid of it somehow, and just dumping it seems wasteful."


Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points

Earlier conversation with Lani

Ke'ahilani wrote:

"You... think I am some kind of drunkard?"

He pushed her out to arms length.

And now you've offended him. Great job, Nef. She accepts the distance that Lani set, wanting him to have the space he needs to feel comfortable.

Nef raises her eyebrows. "I've only ever seen you drunk today," she admits. "Which is also the only time you've ever seen me drunk. I just..." she pauses, searching for the right words, "...know how tempted I'd be to do it again. To drink myself senseless trying to forget the hole that he's left."

Ke'ahilani wrote:
"Nef. Zem and I... there was a time you could not tell us apart; in looks or manners. We were inseparable. But we had our fair share of fights even then." He looked away. "And while I wish we could be that again, well, we are very, very different now."

"Lani... You do know that I don't want you to be Zem, right? Zem's good and honorable but also rigid and unbending. I fell in love with him, flaws and all, but if you'd been exactly like him..." she starts abruptly to laugh, just laugh, imagining two Zems, and all the trouble they'd give her. "I don't think I could have handled that!"

She wipes tears from her eyes, and smiles at Lani. "Zem's vision of the Tulita, what they could be, who they are now... it's beautiful, but one-sided. Maybe what I need for a guide -- at least for a little bit -- is a man who has seen horror, survived it, and figured out his own path through. So that I can better understand and serve the people I've adopted."

Ke'ahilani wrote:
"Besides, there is nothing wrong with getting drunk. If it is in its proper place. The alcohol is a byproduct of several of the reactors I use to make potions. I have to get rid of it somehow, and just dumping it seems wasteful."

She mutters under her breath, "أعطيتك يدي، وكنت ملأها الحصان أنبوب."*

*Keleshite:

"I gave you my hand, and you filled it with horse poop."

"Lani... You can't think of any way to use alcohol other than drinking it? It can be used as a cleanser. It can be used as a better smelling fuel than the coal oil we've been using." She shakes her head. "Neither of us were at our best yesterday. We were both stupid with grief and drink and pain. But the others need us to be better than that."


Male Haast's Eagle Animal Companion 5 | HP 42/42 | AC 19 (21) | T 16 | FF 16 | CMD 22 | F +6 | R +7 | W +2 | Init +3 | Per +5
Ke'ahilani wrote:

A woman says we need to talk? This can't be good! He thought in panic. He glanced around for possible avenues of escape, but only saw Wedjat deliberately nose the door shut and wheeze/cackle evilly.

Traitorous bastard! You'll pay for that! He swore mentally.

"Screeeeee!"

Better you than me, bub.


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Nefertiti Abdul wrote:
She turns to Reknar and touches his shoulder. "Thanks for having Aikane's back -- and ours. You're a good addition to the team."

"Just doing my part" - he nods at Nefertiti - "You've been together for some time, so I'm just going with the flow here. You lead, and I'll find my spot" - he offers a wink - "For now"

----------During the storm----------

Almost without realizing it, and since there was no need to man the sails, Reknar gravitated toward the helm, and without a word, offered his assistance to Jacinth in steering the vessel, hands in a tight grip on the steer.

Sailor Aid: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14


The storm rages all around the Rita for what seems to be forever, though those who have sailed the Razor before know this storm is actually more typical of these springtime storms. Thanks to the efforts of Captain Jacinth, assisted at the proper times by both Rata Fenn (who tends to stick a mite closer to the elf woman than what would be proper under normal circumstances) and by the newcomer Reknar, who ably demonstrates his own sailing prowess, the ship rides out the storm none the worse for wear.

As the storm blows over the skies are clear and thanks to Nefertiti's spell you know the rest of the journey to Dolenta Island should be free of storms, if nothing else. The rest of the day and the evening passes quietly which allows those who were disturbed the night before to recover and get back to their accustomed shifts. As the evening passes into nighttime, the weather remains clear with but several scattered clouds marring what is otherwise a beautiful night sky.

You set your watches on extra guard for any additional nocturnal visitors but the night thankfully passes uneventfully. As the morning dawns, Jacinth takes a navigation reading and realizes that despite all of the storms and other encounters, the Rita is making good time and should arrive at Dolenta Island the following morning.

This news is received with welcome ears by the newly christened Tulitan crew, though you do detect an increased nervousness as you discuss your destination among yourselves.

Time check 0800, Day 6. I will pause here to give you guys a chance to RP here.


Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points

1200 hours, Day 5 -- Conversation with Oren, Kaleo, Butterfly, Maka and Dirty Pete

Oren wrote:
"You and I will batten down the hatches down here, and ride it out. Those above deck are good enough to get us through this. Keep your faith alive. This just might be a really good day, who knows?"

Nef nods. "You're right. We've got a great crew."

She looks at the other Tulitans in the wardroom, still nervously holding their sandwiches as the Rita begins to rock in earnest with the storm winds.

She grins at them, hoping to take their minds off the storm. "How about you guys? You've had your first full day. Any concerns, ideas or suggestions for us? I'm here to listen and be your advocate if needed."

Diplomacy, Gather Information: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (20) + 13 = 33

Later... After talking with them for a bit, an exhausted Nef ties herself into a hammock and attempts to sleep.

________________________________________

1530 hours, Day 5

As the storm starts to finally blow itself out, Nef wakes and unties herself from the hammock. Her muscles ache, knotted and cramped from having to sleep tied. It takes a while to stretch them out again.

"Maka or Dirty Pete, would either of you be willing to cover Helm for a few minutes at 1600 hours? I'd like to have Oren with me while I cast a spell."

She waits for assent from one of them, and then makes her way to the map room with Oren, where she takes out her carefully wrapped slivers from the life boats and the Kolohe.

"Opu, can you help me unroll the map, and make sure I've got the correct chart?"

Carefully, they unfurl the nautical chart that covers the Razor. Then she casts Track Ship twice, once on each sliver.

She waits, breath held, hanging tightly to Oren's hand. Will ghost icons of the targeted boats appear on the map, or will she only see a skull and crossbones where a ship should have been?

Please, Horus, keep Zem and the others on the Kolohe safe...

The spell lasts for five hours. We'll be able to see the icons move on the map as their ships move. Jacinth and any other curious members of the crew can come check out the magical model at any time from 1545-2045 hours.


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1200 hours, Day 5 -- Conversation with Tulitan Crew.

The Tulitan crew fidgets nervously and look to the floor, clearly uncomfortable. Nefertiti's calm demeanor is enough to put the Tulitans at ease and Kaleo speaks up, "We travel to the...bad place? To rescue your...friends?" He shakes his head and mutters a soft prayer to Pele. "I...I do not want to speak ill of our Captain, but we have heard tales...our Tulitan ancestors who lived on Dolentla Island turned their backs on the old gods and..." here his voice drops to a near whisper. "...made blood sacrifices to the dark spirit of the island."

1545-2045 hours, Day 5

As Nefertiti casts her spell first on the sliver of the lifeboat, the spell fails to register, indicating the lifeboat either reached shore or sailed out of range of the area shown on the nautical chart. Considering the time elapsed since the lifeboat set forth (over 30 hours ago) it is a reasonable assumption the lifeboats made it ashore.

The second casting of the spell showing the former slave ship is still at sea, making its way southward towards Port Shaw though its final destination is as yet unclear. The course of the ship changes several times during the spell's duration but thankfully the dreaded skull symbol does not appear.


Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points

1200 hours, Day 5 -- Conversation with Tulitan Crew

"Blood sacrifices?" Nef's notebook falls from her hands as she exchanges a glance with Oren, then looks to Kaleo. "Dark spirit of the island? What dark spirit? Kal, this is the first time we've heard of this. Can you tell us anything more?"


1545 -- Map Room -- Day 5

She raises an eyebrow when the lifeboat filled with slavers simply failed to appear on the map. "Surely if it were docked somewhere, it would appear. Huh."

Then she shrugs. They clearly made it to shore somewhere. The fate of the slavers was no longer her concern.

The icon for the Kolohe is far different. She reaches out to the transparent ship, making its way on the map towards Port Shaw, almost but not quite touching it. She looks up at Oren, face lit with joy. "They made it through the storm!"

Both sets of information will be shared with full crew post storm.


Tien Female Mutagenic Mauler 7 | HP 66/66 | AC (26)23/15/21| F+8(+11),R+8(+11),W+4(+7)(+2 v. , compulsion and emotions) | Init.+2, Perc.+11 | CMB +2 (+14 Bull Rush)(+13 Sunder); CMD 24 (26 v Bull Rush)(25 v Sunder)| while under effects of mutagen, gain +10 to speed, +2 to damage and low light vision.

"Don't you worry, Kaleo. You will stay here on the vessel while we look for the others. You will be nice and safe and sound here away from the island. Hopefully, we will just be there quickly...find the others and head back home. If there are others there, who have made blood sacrifices, en they might have to be dealt with as well."

Oren turns to Nef after her casting. "I knew they'd make it. That big ole ship probably cut through the wind and rain like a hot knife through butter. They'll be warm in bed lickety split. I'm already jealous of them," he says with a smile.

Fighting off a cold, so I might not be around much for the next day or two. Trying to sleep it off!


Inactive

For simplicity's sake, I'm assuming that the four Tulita relieve Jacinth and the others for the moment as none of them have been working and all of them can take helm or tops. I figure we can then assume that the schedule gets itself worked back out to something resembling normal by Day 6 like the Kraken mentioned.

Day 5 - 0900 Hours

Nef wrote:

"Thank you, Captain." Then she pauses, and says, in a low voice, "Kaiku, this one looks bad. Please, all of you... be careful."

She clasps her friend's hand, then scurries below with storm schedule.

"I...yes. I will do my best, as will the rest of the crew, I am sure. In the meantime, do try and get some rest Nef. You look tired," Jacinth says quietly, giving Nef's hand a reassuring squeeze before they part ways to attend to their respective duties.

Day 5 - During the Storm

Though grateful for Rata's assistance (and somewhat unsurprised at the proximity he keeps to her), Jacinth does find herself a bit startled as Reknar joins her at the helm without being prompted, lending his strength and skill to hers and Rata's so that they may weather the storm.

No time for questions, no time to wonder whether or not Rata thinks less of me for leaving my friends, no time to wonder whether Reknar is who and what he claims to be or not...

We work. We trust.

Despite the seriousness of the situation, she feels a determined smile creep across her face as her spirits are bolstered by the presence of her crew, even the ones currently below deck.

Day 5 - After the Storm

With the storm finally past, Jacinth breathes a sigh of relief as the four Tulita crewmen come to relieve them. "Good work everyone," she smiles. "You all have more than earned a rest...especially you, Reknar. I believe you have essentially worked a double shift have you not? I apologize, but it seemed prudent to have our most experienced sailors on deck for a storm of that strength. Between that and our scuffle with that sea creature this morning, well...I am certainly glad that you joined with us. Keep up the good work. You too," she nods at Rata and Aikane. "Go eat and take a rest for a bit; I will go find Nef and see what we can do with the schedule since the storm passed sooner than expected."

Jacinth then makes her way below deck, checking around until she eventually makes her way to the map room where she finds both Oren and Nef. "There you are, Nef! I wondered where you had gotten off to. It seems that the storm has passed with the Rita none the worse for the wear, thankfully. I-what is this?" she breaks off, noticing the little ghost ship moving over the chart. She looks puzzled for a moment before recognition dawns in her eyes as she realizes that she's gazing upon a tiny version of the Kolohe. "Some sort of scrying magic? Very clever! How does it work?"


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Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points

1200 hours, Day 5 -- Conversation with the Tulita Warriors

Nef sighs as she watches Oren simultaneously reassure the warriors and wound their pride by saying that they'd all stay nice and safe on the ship.

These are warriors. They may be terrified of whatever spirit is on the island, but they want to be part of our crew, and knowing that they are doing an important job.

"What Opu means is that you'll be guarding the ship, watching our backs, and making sure the ship is ready when we rescue those children from that awful island. Now... speaking of that island... I want anything you remember of Dolentla and its dark spirit."

She glances around at each of the warriors in turn, meeting each of their gazes frankly and openly. "We'd heard tales of bestial man beasts and a maddened whale. Could the dark spirit have corrupted them? Are these its followers? Servants? What sort of blood sacrifices did the spirit call for? Are the young people we're trying to save at risk?"

Nef thinks hard about all she was taught about the Tulita gods and their adversaries by Elemakule. Did she ever hear of a dark spirit that demanded blood sacrifices?

Blood sacrifices doesn't sound like Dajobas. He just wants to EAT his victims. This sounds like something else...

Knowledge Religion: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (14) + 9 = 23

Does Nef recall anything?


After the storm -- In the Map Room with Oren, Jacinth, and Whomever Else Joins Us

Nef grins. "It's a ship tracking spell, Kaiku. You need a sliver of wood from the ship you're tracking, and a map, and it will show you where the ship is, real time. My father used it to keep track of his fleet. It's too bad we don't have a piece of the Wailing Gypsy; we could have tracked down the people Rata's hunting."

She reaches out and hugs Jacinth. "Kaiku, we have to talk." She shares all the information that she got from Kaleo and the others. "We all know that there's something wrong with that island. Maybe it's not a dark spirit. Maybe it's something else. But with Zem gone, I'd feel better if we had another fighter with us on the island. Someone brave and strong-willed."

She pauses, and then asks, "What do you think of Reknar?"


Nefertiti thinks back on her religious training and studies, especially of the dark god Dajobas. She soon realizes the god does not usually propitiate blood sacrifices, as that implies a more organized form of worship. Still Dajobas would not refuse such sacrifices either...

The Tulitan crew all shake their heads. "We know little else of the island, only what tales our loreskeepers pass down to us."


Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points

1200 Day 5

"I understand." Nef nods. "I know you guys don't know more than what you remember from the..."

...lorekeepers...

Her eyes widen. Whale must know this story! He must... but so far our story telling sessions have only gone one way.

She pauses, still going over the ramifications in her head. Then she turns to the young men and Oren before her and finally asks, "Can you at least tell me how old this story is? Do the stories of the dark spirit at Dolentla predate the coming of the elves?"

If the warriors don't know...

"Oren, can you think if you remember anything about this? We should see if Aikane or any of the others have ever heard anything on this matter."

Can we get everyone who has Knowledge Local to help on a roll?


Tien Female Mutagenic Mauler 7 | HP 66/66 | AC (26)23/15/21| F+8(+11),R+8(+11),W+4(+7)(+2 v. , compulsion and emotions) | Init.+2, Perc.+11 | CMB +2 (+14 Bull Rush)(+13 Sunder); CMD 24 (26 v Bull Rush)(25 v Sunder)| while under effects of mutagen, gain +10 to speed, +2 to damage and low light vision.

Knowledge Local 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (19) + 10 = 29

"Let me see...blood sacrifices and dark spirits. I'm sure there's been plenty around these parts," he laughs.


Jacinth Deepwarder wrote:
"Good work everyone," she smiles. "You all have more than earned a rest...especially you, Reknar. I believe you have essentially worked a double shift have you not? I apologize, but it seemed prudent to have our most experienced sailors on deck for a storm of that strength. Between thatand our scuffle with that sea creature this morning, well...I am certainly glad that you joined with us. Keep up the good work....

"I'm good - up top was where I were supposed to be" - he nods - "I will welcome a couple hours of sleep and a drink though, that's for sure" - he smiles, then moves to remove the wet clothes.


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Inactive

Day 5 - Conversation w/ Reknar

"Good attitude to have, too!" Jacinth smiles, pleased. "I think you will fit in well with the rest of the crew. In the meantime, enjoy your break."

Day 5 - Map Room

Jacinth whistles in admiration. "That is amazing! I wonder if any of the merchant families in Port Shaw utilize this magic? If all that is needed is a sliver of the ship in question, then the main cost would be having someone on staff that is capable of casting the spell." She watches the miniature Kolohe inch along on the chart for another moment before looking up, a sheepish expression on her face. "Forgive me, I have heard of magics similar to this but I have never actually seen such in action before. It's very fascinating."

Her eyes then widen as Nef reaches out and pulls her into a hug, but she does not pull away. Smiling a bit awkwardly, she tentatively returns the hug and pats the tiny priestess on the shoulder before they part. "Very well Nef, I had wanted to ask you about the schedule now that the storm has passed but it sounds as if you have something more pressing on your mind. What is it?" She listens intently as Nef shares everything she had learned from the other Tulita crewmen about Dolentla Island, grimacing in distaste at the mention of 'blood sacrifices.'

"Wonderful...a mad whale, feral man-beasts, and now dark spirits and blood sacrifices? We had better be prepared for anything once we arrive," she sighs. "You ask for my opinion of Reknar? Well, you have had more time to speak with him than I. However, based on what I have seen of him so far - our fight against that sea creature this morning and fighting through today's storm - I believe that he would be an asset to us on the island." She pauses, thinking. "As far as personality is concerned? So far, he seems to get on with everyone else. That might change in the future of course, but for now, he seems to fit relatively well with the rest of the crew."

"As for whether these tales predate the arrival of my own people to the Razor Coast, let me think..."

Kn. Local (Oren Aid Another?): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (13) + 9 = 22
Kn. History: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24


Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points

Day 5 Map Room

Nef smiles, pleased that Jacinth likes the ship tracking spell as much as she does.

Then she nods, all business once again at Jacinth's assessment of Reknar. "He's got a solid work ethic. He throws himself into everything he does. He's very strong, has had warrior training of some sort, and..." She turns to Oren. "Do you remember in the battle when he pulled out a wand? I think he's some sort of caster, too."

She turns back to Jacinth. "Personally, he's very open and helpful. When I thanked him earlier, he said that he was just trying to find a spot on our team. He told me that if we lead, he'll follow." She sighs. "The only strike I have against the man is that he signed with the Bastion -- but according to Kaleo, Reknar lost his position by protecting some slaves during a raid."

"My gut says he'd be good. I'd like to ask Aikane, Lani and Rata what they think of him. If they approve, I think we should ask him to come with us to Dolentla -- to share the risks and the rewards."

She looks at Oren and Jacinth. "Should I?"

1830 hours -- Whale Storytime

Before sunset, Nef ties herself to the bowsprit and once again preps to tell a story to Tohorara...

Perform Oratory: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (13) + 9 = 22


Oren knows the tales of the Tulitan natives of the Dolentla island turned from worshiping Pele long before the arrival of the elves and the Elf-Tulita wars which led to the destruction of the Sammerlock Sails stronghold by the spurned goddess Pele.

Jacinth recalls the elves concealed something on Dolentla Island near Sammerlock Sails. Speculation includes a magnificent armory, a cache of experimental weapons, a treasure trove, or an artifact belonging to Pele. Judging from what she has already learned about the elvish laboratory rumored to be located there, it could be any, or all of the above. Unfortunately, you have not heard anything more substantial than what other rumors you have come across.


Inactive

Day 5 - Map Room

"Perhaps he did not fully realize what signing on with the Bastion entailed at the time that he signed on? If what Kaleo said is true, it sounds as if he came to regret his decision," Jacinth offers. At the mention of Reknar having a wand, she raises an eyebrow quizzically. "If that is true, then he is a man of many talents. Though we already have one practitioner of the arcane arts," she nods at Oren "having a second one would be even better!" She nods at Nef. "I agree, it would be good to find out what the others think of him. Though I may be Captain while at sea, I...do not hold authority over this group otherwise," she says quietly. "It shall be as much your decision as mine."

As her eyes turn once more to the tiny ghost ship on the map, something suddenly comes to mind from her earlier lessons and research. "All I can really tell you about these rumors concerning Dolentla is that my people concealed something there. It could be a number of things - an armory, experimental weapons, treasure, or even an artifact that belongs to...Pele," she finishes reluctantly. "That is all I am able to tell you, though. It could be all of those things or something else entirely." She shrugs helplessly. "All I have are rumors and speculation."


Tien Female Mutagenic Mauler 7 | HP 66/66 | AC (26)23/15/21| F+8(+11),R+8(+11),W+4(+7)(+2 v. , compulsion and emotions) | Init.+2, Perc.+11 | CMB +2 (+14 Bull Rush)(+13 Sunder); CMD 24 (26 v Bull Rush)(25 v Sunder)| while under effects of mutagen, gain +10 to speed, +2 to damage and low light vision.

"All I remember about the rumors of the Tulitan natives of the Dolentla island turned from worshiping Pele long before the arrival of the elves and the Elf-Tulita wars. This led to the destruction of the Sammerlock Sails stronghold by the spurned goddess Pele. Sounds pretty grim, to be honest."


Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points

Day 5, Map Room

At Jacinth's comment about not holding authority, Nefertiti smiles and says, "Who does? We're a headstrong and independent lot. Jacinth... At 0800 hours, the whole team is awake. Assuming we don't have another high noon storm coming, do we want to have a lunchtime group meeting before heading into Dolentla?"

"So that dark spirit on Dolentla long predated the Elvish lab? And the Elvish Lab may have some sort of artifact? Who knows how those two could have interacted?" Nefertiti rubs the bridge of her nose, trying to stave off a headache. "We need to discuss these rumors as a team, talk over strategies, and plan for this upcoming island trip as best we can."


Day 5, Throughout the Day until 2045

Nefertiti returns to the map room again and again in between Whale Storytime and other duties, to stare at the ghostly version of the Kolohe. At 2040, she whispers, "Keep them safe, Malama. Bring them home, then find me when this is all over. I miss you so much." She leaves before the spell ends, unable to bear watching Zem's ship wink out.


Day 5, 2200 hours

She asks Oren to wake her before shift change, and then goes to bed a few hours early so that she can wake later talk to the individuals of Team One on their shift.


Day 6, 0100 hours

Because the night is quiet, she steals a few minutes to speak quietly to each Aikane and Ke'ahilani. To each she asks, "I'm thinking of inviting Reknar to stand with us when we visit Dolentla. Do you have any objections or concerns before I do this?"

As Reknar is a PC, I assume there wouldn't be, but with this group... It's best to check.

She also steals some time to talk with Reknar himself while in the Crow's Nest. "You were great in yesterday's fight, but we know so little about you... Can you tell me a bit about how you got your warrior training? Also, I'm curious about the wand. Are you some kind of battle mage?" She does this conversationally, also trying to sound out how Reknar feels about the group, and about Dolentla Island. "Has Jacinth told you about our mission to Dolentla yet?"

Diplomacy, Gather Information: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (15) + 13 = 28

Reknar, here's your chance to toot your horn...


"Not sure if there is much to tell Nefertiti" - Reknar seems to ponder the question for a moment - "I was in the army for a long time - too long in fact. Learned a couple of things though, one of them was how to swing a blade and cleave a head" - he begins - "And quite a bit about fighting in a group. Guess that was it honestly - war isn't about learning anyway, it's about staying alive longer than the others" - he chuckles - "Oh yeah... Learned that too"

He laughs heartily at the battle mage suggestion - "Naaah, not even close" - shaking his head - "Learned a few magic tricks from my friend, the same one that forced me to admit that swinging a blade, and cleaving a head are not enough" - he continues, still wearing an open smile - "Even if all you know how to do is fight, you can always aim at doing it better - or at least he always argued. Kind of an idealist he is, so to speak"

Drawing out the wand from his wrist sheath in a swift movement, Reknar twirled it in his hand - "He taught me the basics of arcane magic, enough to be able to tap into the spells stored in these. You see, there will always be someone that hits harder or faster than you - learned that the hard way" - the smile is now gone - "I was told I had the intellect to master this" - he holds the cedar wood wand in one hand, and laughs again - "The intellect! Go figure! Doesn't matter what I thought about it though - I was shown I could do it, so I'd be damned if I would pass on any chance at getting an edge. So I learned" - his dark eyes stare back at Nef.

"The rest I know about strategy or tactics, is from what I was able to scrape off books, written by those that know much more about it than I do. Or fighting alongside others still, best at what they did. What you know doesn't do much for you when you die screaming though, now does it? And they all did, one way or the other. Another lesson learned I guess" - those last words are almost spat out, as he fiddled with the crude dragon figurine around his neck.

Turning back to Nef, he follows up - "Dolentia? Yeah, the Captain told me something about some rich kids that got in over their heads, and had a close encounter with a whale or some such?" - he shrugs - "Why do you ask?"


Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points

Day 6 -- 0100 Hours -- Conversation with Reknar

Nef swings her feet in the Crow's Nest, leaning up next to the warm feathered body of Wedjat, who has dozed off after getting Nef up to the Crow's Nest.

She listens intently to Reknar's stories of the army and of his arcane training with a friend. She nods, appraising him.

"The intellect doesn't surprise me. Winning battles isn't just a matter of who has the greatest resources, it's a matter of out thinking the enemy and planning ahead." she says softly. She looks out to the sea, appreciating the sight of stars reflected in the dark waters below. It looks like our whole ship is sailing the firmament of the heavens... Then she turns her steady gaze back on Reknar. "You may have already realized this, but I'm one who likes to plan ahead, and give my team every advantage that I can."

Seeing Dog poke his head out Reknar's pack, Nefertiti glances at Reknar for permission before sharing some of the smoked meat she'd brought with the weasel. "Can I ask you one more question before we talk of Dolentla? Can you tell me about the dragon you wear around your neck?"


"You can ask me all the questions you want " - Reknar answers, suddenly aware he had been fidgeting with the miniature dragon - "This here? A young lad once told me I should be part of something he called 'The Order of the Blazing Dragon' - he was full of hopes and dreams about 'belonging', and 'laying yourself on the line for others' see?" - he takes the simple cord from around his neck, and stares at it with blank eyes - "He got 'controlled', or something like that, by a nasty old crone we rooted out in the Mwangi Expanse, and tried to kill us, no matter how hard we tried to restrain him"

Gripping the figurine tight in his hand, the man's voice again turned sour - "It was mayhem in our ranks - we were being peppered by goblin poisoned arrows from every side, by the hag's spells, and no one managed to act against him - freaking spell was gonna break us from the inside. I killed the boy, and kept the dragon" - he finishes with ice in his words - "And we defeated the witch"


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Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points

Nefertiti lays a hand on his shoulder. "I'm sorry for your loss," she says softly. "It's not the way any of us would choose to lose a friend, but I'm glad that you kept the dragon to honor his memory."

She pauses, knowing that she needs to step carefully here. You're eighteen and small. He's called you, 'girl,' before. He probably sees you as green as the boy that he lost.

"Qadirans have a saying. The first time you ride through the valley of death, you survive because fate has smiled upon you. The second time you ride, you survive because you sought an alternate path to your destination."

She turns her gaze on him. "We're traveling into unknown dangers on a haunted island controlled by a dark spirit that has fed on blood sacrifice. I'm expecting mind control magic and other horrors. Reknar, I need your experience. I need you."

"Will you help me plan this? Will you help me get my team in and out of Dolentla, with the kids we're trying to rescue?"


Tien Female Mutagenic Mauler 7 | HP 66/66 | AC (26)23/15/21| F+8(+11),R+8(+11),W+4(+7)(+2 v. , compulsion and emotions) | Init.+2, Perc.+11 | CMB +2 (+14 Bull Rush)(+13 Sunder); CMD 24 (26 v Bull Rush)(25 v Sunder)| while under effects of mutagen, gain +10 to speed, +2 to damage and low light vision.

Oren spent most of the next day sleeping, when he wasnt working his duties. He was
Conserving energy, knowing they were getting really close to the island. And maybe Whale.

Still fighting my cold. Apologies for the lack of posting. As I start feeling better I'll get more active again.


Male Menehune Rogue 5 [HP 15; AC 21 / FF 21 / T 15; F: +3/ R: +7/ W: +3; Init +3; PerC: +12]

Aikane spends the next couple of days taking it easy and keeping mostly to himself. In particular he does speak with Reknar at one point, appreciating the Human's skill with his weapon.

The menehune spends the time recovering.


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Day 5 - Map Room

Jacinth's lips twitch at the words 'headstrong' and 'independent'. "No doubt. I think having a meeting prior to arriving and going ashore would be wise. Having even general plans in place to cover as many scenarios as possible will be important. Unless something else happens before then, let us plan on it." She pats Nef on the shoulder as the tiny woman rubs at her nose. "Planning is important no doubt, but try not to let it stress you today. Between all of us, we can surely come up with strategies that will be invaluable on the island. But there is no sense in letting what-ifs trouble us until we know more."

Day 5 - Rest of the Day

Knowing that they draw close to their destination, Jacinth finds herself unable to do more than doze when she attempts to rest, her mind inevitable returning to a state of wakefulness as she can't help but wonder what they will find when they arrive. With a sigh, she gives up on getting any rest for the time being and rises to her feet.

Not very good at following your own advice, are you?

She makes her way to the galley to grab a quick snack before heading up on deck, ready to resume her duties at the helm for the time being. As those who needed rest obtain it and the work shifts even back out to where they should be, she opts to enjoy the peaceful weather and relative quiet, knowing all too well that it wasn't likely to last. She can't help but find her eyes occasionally straying to Rata as he works, despite her best efforts to keep them on the horizon ahead.

I shared too much last night...and not just with him, but with Nef, Oren, and Ke'ahilani...this is why Uncle always cautioned against drinking to excess...it loosens the tongue more than we might like. And it seems Nef learned that the hard way too. But, there is no use fretting about it now I suppose. What's done is done. Besides...

She chuckles as her mind replays the previous evening's revelry, despite the scattered moments of darkness throughout.

It was rather...fun. Who knew that Nef had such a silly side to her? Oren and Ke'ahilani are hilarious...and I do not know how, but Rata seemed even more...charming than usual. For a human.

As her eyes once again drift to the Mwangi, a smile creeps across her face...one of genuine affection. As the sound of Kaleo's singing drifts down from the tops, a surprising feeling of peace and contentment washes over the elven woman. Her spirit once again bolstered by the presence of her crew, one of them in particular, she enjoys the rest of her evening shift at the helm, including Nef's evening story to Whale. Once midnight and the shift change rolls around, she passes control of the helm off to whoever decides to take it for the rest of the night. "All has been quiet so far," she addresses the new shift, including Nef, as she gives report. "And surprisingly peaceful...it is a beautiful night tonight. I hope it remains that way. Have a good evening and I will see everyone in the morning. Stay safe, okay?" Unless anyone has any questions or wishes to speak to her, she then turns and heads below deck to bed.


Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points
Aikane Redvane wrote:
The menehune spends the time recovering.

Aikane, you got back 15 from Nef and another 12 from Ke'ahilani. Huh. You took 35, so you're still down--just not as much as you thought.

0100 hours

While discussing Reknar's abilities with Aikane, Nef notices that the menehune is still hurt.

"Allow me?"

Cure Light Wounds: 1d8 + 5 ⇒ (7) + 5 = 12


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Nefertiti Abdul wrote:
Nefertiti lays a hand on his shoulder. "I'm sorry for your loss," she says softly. "It's not the way any of us would choose to lose a friend, but I'm glad that you kept the dragon to honor his memory."

"Don't be. It wasn't my loss but his. Life is like that. Sometimes it pays off, but not often" - Reknar answers.

Nefertiti Abdul wrote:

She pauses, knowing that she needs to step carefully here. You're eighteen and small. He's called you, 'girl,' before. He probably sees you as green as the boy that he lost.

"Qadirans have a saying. The first time you ride through the valley of death, you survive because fate has smiled upon you. The second time you ride, you survive because you sought an alternate path to your destination."

She turns her gaze on him. "We're traveling into unknown dangers on a haunted island controlled by a dark spirit that has fed on blood sacrifice. I'm expecting mind control magic and other horrors. Reknar, I need your experience. I need you."

"Will you help me plan this? Will you help me get my team in and out of Dolentla, with the kids we're trying to rescue?"

"Can't say I know what the destination is, or even if there is actually one - but I'll keep that in mind" - he winks at her with a grin.

"As for giving you a hand on the island, why the heck not? The crew took me on board in a heartbeat, you silent friend released me from the shackles without a question, so I guess I owe you one" - he again shrugs - "Get me a share of that reward I heard about, and you can count on me to kick some of those 'horrors' around, and return the kids to their soft life back in Port Shaw, as it should be" - he is still grinning.


Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points

0100 Hours -- Conversation with Reknar in the Crow's Nest

Always a kinetic thinker, Nefertiti swings her feet out again, processing Reknar's words. "The dragon is a memento of one loss, the tattooed rose the memento of another." Cocking her head, she studies him. "Do you hold on to joy as fiercely as you guard your sorrow? Do you hold a similar keepsake to remember your living friend, the mage? Or does the wand serve that purpose for you?"

She looks up at the stars, and then back at him. "You intrigue me, Reknar. You talk about how how life does not pay off very often, but then you leap towards new opportunities fearlessly." She grins back at him. "I like that about you."

She catches him up fully on the mission, answering his questions and giving him every detail she had amassed in her notes. "If you're taking a full share of the risk with us, it's only right you get a full share of the reward."

She also talks about the strategies and battle tactics that she had observed her friends use in fights. "As for me, my job is to make all of you fight better. You've already seen that I can bolster allies; sometimes I can also channel and daze our opponents. I want to tilt the odds in our favor, Reknar. That's why I want you and all the skills you bring."

Her hand brushes a loose eagle feather, shed on the Crow's Nest. On impulse, she hands it to Reknar. "A new keepsake for your collection. Welcome to our Merry Band."


Nefertiti Abdul wrote:

0100 Hours -- Conversation with Reknar in the Crow's Nest

Always a kinetic thinker, Nefertiti swings her feet out again, processing Reknar's words. "The dragon is a memento of one loss, the tattooed rose the memento of another." Cocking her head, she studies him. "Do you hold on to joy as fiercely as you guard your sorrow? Do you hold a similar keepsake to remember your living friend, the mage? Or does the wand serve that purpose for you?"

"I don't really give it much thought to be honest - but whenever I see this" - he shows the tattoo and the miniature - "I make sure the lessons learned are not forgotten"

He again smiles at the mention of his friend - "I always remember him when I grab my backpack - it weighs a ton because he stuffed it full of books when we parted ways. I even managed to read parts of some of them actually"

Nefertiti Abdul wrote:
She looks up at the stars, and then back at him. "You intrigue me, Reknar. You talk about how how life does not pay off very often, but then you leap towards new opportunities fearlessly." She grins back at him. "I like that about you."

"There is no other way to move, but forward, is there? Either that, or laying down to die. I'm not ready to take that option just yet" - he finishes with a jest.

Nefertiti Abdul wrote:

She catches him up fully on the mission, answering his questions and giving him every detail she had amassed in her notes. "If you're taking a full share of the risk with us, it's only right you get a full share of the reward."

She also talks about the strategies and battle tactics that she had observed her friends use in fights. "As for me, my job is to make all of you fight better. You've already seen that I can bolster allies; sometimes I can also channel and daze our opponents. I want to tilt the odds in our favor, Reknar. That's why I want you and all the skills you bring."

Her hand brushes a loose eagle feather, shed on the Crow's Nest. On impulse, she hands it to Reknar. "A new keepsake for your collection. Welcome to our Merry Band."

"Thanks" - the man takes the feather - "I don't know if I bring that many skills to the table, but I'll find a way to fit in. Just so you know, I may tend to start barking orders every once in a while. Remnants from back in the day, and old habits die hard as hell. Make nothing of it" - he adds.

"One last thing, if you don't mind me asking" - he does follow up - "Don't take this personally but... I don't know you or any of the others, and am definitely not the religious type so... What was that, back in the fight against the crazed fish - your words pierced my head somehow. Is that magic of some sort? I could feel its effects, but I don't know why"


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Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points

0100 Hours -- Conversation with Reknar

In response to his question about the bardic performance, she says, "If I can ask you any question I like, then this privilege should go both ways. I have some unique divine gifts from Horus. I don't think I'm like any other priest you'll meet on the Razor. I have the ability to inspire people with my voice, and for my voice to carry. It is magical -- though not a spell per se -- just a part of me."

"As for you barking orders..." She grins. "Good. There are times when we'll need the direction. I did make it clear that we need your experience?"

"There's something you should know, since you're new." She pauses. "I boss people around all the time. Gently. I'm kind of like a mama hen." She looks a little worried. "I don't know why they put up with it, actually."

Then she takes a deep breath and says quietly, "I can lead but I can also follow. It's not being in charge that I value, but getting the job done."

She offers him her hand. "Take the lead when you need to do so -- deal?"


"Deal" - Reknar nods - "I wouldn't fret much about the 'mama hen' thing. They're all grown up it seems, so if they let you do it, it's because they want to" - he adds.

"As for me, don't worry. I'm 'immune' to being bossed around" - the man finishes.


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Tien Female Mutagenic Mauler 7 | HP 66/66 | AC (26)23/15/21| F+8(+11),R+8(+11),W+4(+7)(+2 v. , compulsion and emotions) | Init.+2, Perc.+11 | CMB +2 (+14 Bull Rush)(+13 Sunder); CMD 24 (26 v Bull Rush)(25 v Sunder)| while under effects of mutagen, gain +10 to speed, +2 to damage and low light vision.

Nice conversation you two. Give me a bit more time to get back on my feet. I've got a doctor's appointment tomorrow and hopefully I'll be feeling better lickety split. sorry for he continued delay.


Male Haast's Eagle Animal Companion 5 | HP 42/42 | AC 19 (21) | T 16 | FF 16 | CMD 22 | F +6 | R +7 | W +2 | Init +3 | Per +5
Oren Mitabu wrote:
Nice conversation you two. Give me a bit more time to get back on my feet. I've got a doctor's appointment tomorrow and hopefully I'll be feeling better lickety split. sorry for he continued delay.

Good. Because if you don't get better soon, Nef has been muttering about siccing Ke'ahilani on you.


Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points
Reknar. wrote:

"Deal" - Reknar nods - "I wouldn't fret much about the 'mama hen' thing. They're all grown up it seems, so if they let you do it, it's because they want to" - he adds.

"As for me, don't worry. I'm 'immune' to being bossed around" - the man finishes.

Nef puts down the hand she'd given him to shake. Not everyone likes to be touched, she reminds herself.

She raises her eyebrow at his immunity comment, but doesn't press him. "That immunity will likely prove useful on Dolentla." Now let's hope it's true.

"Goodnight, Reknar. Thanks for talking with me."

She wakes her dozing eagle, and then flies back down to the deck and heads to bed.

______________________
Kraken, I know I still have Whale Storytime to put in here, but it can totally be backfilled. If you want, feel free to move time forward again.


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Tien Female Mutagenic Mauler 7 | HP 66/66 | AC (26)23/15/21| F+8(+11),R+8(+11),W+4(+7)(+2 v. , compulsion and emotions) | Init.+2, Perc.+11 | CMB +2 (+14 Bull Rush)(+13 Sunder); CMD 24 (26 v Bull Rush)(25 v Sunder)| while under effects of mutagen, gain +10 to speed, +2 to damage and low light vision.

Sitting in the doctor's office as we speak. Think I'm feeling a touch better. Oren is ready for whatever happens next.


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Female Human (Keleshite) Evangelist Cleric 5 | HP 37/38 | AC 16 (18) | T 11 | FF 15 | CMD 13 | F +7 | R +3 | W +7 | Init + 3 (5 in surprise rounds) | Per +7 | Status: Wisdom Restored
Resources:
15/17 rounds bardic performance | 8/8 rounds channeling | 28/50 charges CLW wand | 2 hero points

PAST -- 1830 Hours, Day Five

Story to Tohorara, the Whale, Day Five -- Always Remember Who You Are

As Horus continued his journey to the Haunted Isle to save the friends of Princess Kalena, the men of his ship brought him disturbing rumors of the island to which they were traveling. They told him tales of a dark spirit that fed on blood sacrifice, of bestial man monsters, an ancient elven lab and... a maddened whale who sunk ships.

Alarmed, Horus flew out to his friend, Tohorara, the Whale, but Whale was nowhere in sight. "Whale! Whale, please speak to me!"

Horus landed on the little boat that Whale had provided him as a perch, so long ago. "Whale, for your sake I've traveled the Razor, met the love of my life, and let her go. I've battled weresharks, and freed people from the chains of slavery and addiction, and made a promise to bring dignity to the Outskirts."

Crooning to the waters, he spoke. "Whale, you saved me. You fed me, protected me, grieved with me. You gave me a purpose when I was lost. You are the family of my heart."

Horus extended his wing, trailing the very edge lightly in the sea, wishing for the first time that he could swim. "If I could, I would dive beneath these waters now and find you. For now... For now, I will content myself with reminding you, Whale, of who you are."

"You are Whale! Eldest of the three! You came to this ocean, and with your song, you dreamed of a set of beautiful islands where your family could play and grow. You were the one who warned Shark that he was playing with fire when he brought Pele to the islands, allowing her to surf on his back. You were the one wise enough to set Pele free, knowing that she was too fierce and glorious to be contained."

"You were here when the stories began, and you have kept them safe for your people ever since." Horus spread his wings, flying over the waters, calling out Tohorara's name. "You sing... and dream... and live... deeply."

And then Horus whispered, "You are Whale! Your people need you. I need you. Always remember who you are."


1900 Hours, Day Five

Her story done, Nefertiti looked out over the sea, as the sun set in the Razor. The waters all around were bathed in a fiery, glorious light.

"Whale, if you're still listening... I'll admit that I'm a little scared. Scared for me. Scared for those poor lost kids on Dolentla. Scared for you. There's a dark spirit on that island, and I'm afraid that it has stolen one of your children from you. If one of your whales is lost and mad, I will try to remind him of who he is. Help me, Whale. Please."

She shimmies back from the bowsprit, and returns to the Rita.

__________________________

Glad to hear that you're feeling better, Oren. We've missed you.


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Tien Female Mutagenic Mauler 7 | HP 66/66 | AC (26)23/15/21| F+8(+11),R+8(+11),W+4(+7)(+2 v. , compulsion and emotions) | Init.+2, Perc.+11 | CMB +2 (+14 Bull Rush)(+13 Sunder); CMD 24 (26 v Bull Rush)(25 v Sunder)| while under effects of mutagen, gain +10 to speed, +2 to damage and low light vision.

Oren stirs from his prolonged break, he goes looking for the group. "Remind me that damned rum has a stronger effect on me than I remembered," he laughs, rubbing his gut. "Habe I missed anything? You know I've not been feeling well when I slept and didn't even dream of my mermaid. Damn shame, it is."

"Has everyone gotten along well? I know my Tulita have probably been quiet, getting used to their new surroundings, but I'm sure they will do well with us. How about Reknar? Is he trustworthy?"

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