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Karzok stops his descent with the others and the hairs on the back of his neck rise as Sorala claims that someone is trying to sink the ship. He crashes to the deck with a grunt as the great wave slams into the hull, but is quick to regain his footing.

Through the din of thunderous waves and ominous chanting, Karzok can just barely make out Murob's calls for help. He rushes to the rail while pulling a few items from his pack. He ties the end of his silk rope to an arrow and lets loose, firing in the area of the lookout, hoping not to skewer him outright. A natural 1 here might be interesting...

Shortbow: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (1) + 4 = 5 HOLY S*$& and I roll a 1. Karzok may have just become the most hated man on the ship!

I'd recommend running two parties only if you're sure that's something you really want to do.

Otherwise, my vote would be for a mixed party of traditional and non-traditional characters. Anca would be a lovely choice, for instance.

;)

snip

Well I certainly like where you're coming from. Deep down inside I am a numbers guy too. Heck, I even like the class combination in your build. But it also gives me some flashbacks of the convoluted builds of my 3.5 days. Now I'm not saying that playing that character wouldn't be fun - and I may just look into it myself if the ranger idea doesn't pan out - but I feel like when you begin mashing up classes just to make the mechanics work, you begin to lose some idea of who the character is.

I do like how your mind works though. ;)

I think it's all but guaranteed that this will be isometric 2.5D in the BG/PoE style. Sorry, mate.

It is interesting to hear your opinion, though. I felt the exact opposite as Pillars of Eternity was the most immersive gaming experience I've had in years. The ambient sounds, the music, the art all just sucked me right in. I guess I just prefer games that leave a bit more of the experience up to the imagination. To each his/her own, of course.

It's funny that you mention NWN2, I'm just now getting around to watching a Let's Play of the game since I could never beat it due to the horrendous party AI (even with mods!). I am very much looking forward to getting back into it.

Samy/Hayato Ken/Orthos and anyone else interested in discussing an Obsidian Pathfinder RPG, here you go!

I know this is rumored to be in the works (or a future project that has yet to be started) and wanted to see what the community would like to see in the game. Would you buy it and at what price point? Should it be kickstarted? Turn-based or RTwP? Where on Golarion would you like it to take place? Etc, etc. There are hundreds of discussion points so I won't list them all.

I know it'll most likely be RTwP, but I would slightly prefer turn-based. I hope the art direction is as close to Pillars of Eternity as possible as I absolutely loved the art direction in that game. To keep it from being too generic, I'd like the game to take place in Nex/Geb/Alkenstar.

Please feel free to share your thoughts and lets get the discussion going.

JJ acting as a consultant on an Obsidian isometric CRPG based in Golarion using the Pillars engine would solidify it as the most anticipated video game of my 30-odd years of life on this planet. Please let that be a possibility.

Setzer considers Pluck's idea, scratching his chin as the gears turn (or idle?) in his head, "That may be our best course of action. I can blast them as they come in or..." He gives the rest a wry smile, "I could drop some furniture on their heads." He deflates somewhat as he realizes how ludicrous that idea sounds, "If only we had a few more bodies in here, we could use those pickaxes to break off some large chunks of stone. Now those would do some damage."

I imagine Setzer's blasts look something like this. Yes, I am obsessed with Final Fantasy VI. Maybe I should've named my character Sabin Rene Figaro instead? :D

Edit: Well, #!$% I just remembered why I modeled this character after Setzer in the first place. I forgot the whole dart/card/die part of my blast. Oops. Chalk that up to first combat jitters, I guess. This is my first fight since... April? Yeah, it's been a while.

1600

"Ah, yes. Sometimes it is best to forget." He looks down and shuffles his feet for a moment, "Yes, thank you. I believe I will join you."

He looks to Jacinth, nodding along with her approval and wry suggestion, "I'm glad I have your approval, Captain. The more the merrier as far as I'm concerned."

0000

Rata finally finishes his work for the night and drops down to the deck, taking a moment to breathe in the night air and gaze up at the starry skies. Tonight should be... interesting. He eagerly heads below, and returns Nef's wave once he enters the Steward's Cabin, and can't help but chuckle at her joyous greeting.

"Nef, I think you're not the only one that needs this. Pass me a mug!" he pulls up a stool and gladly accepts his full mug of rum. He tosses is back without much reaction, he was quite used to the strong rums sailors preferred and settled himself in for a relaxing night of (hopefully) good-natured revelry.

Rata gives Oren a questioning look as he refills his mug, "Ah, why so interested all of a sudden? There's not much to tell really. I grew up on my father's vessel, hoping one day to captain a ship of my own. Unfortunately, things didn't play out exactly as I had hoped..." he sobers up at that last bit. "But you all are well aware of what drives me. I hope to find out more when we get back to port." He takes a sip from his newly full mug, nursing the dark liquor this go round. "I didn't spend much time in Bloodcove as my father kept us pretty busy on the Concord. My mother... She was not well. So my father was primarily responsible for looking after my sister and I. We didn't get into much trouble, we were good kids."

He turns the question back to Oren, "What about yourself? How did you come to meet Aikane?" He reaches for a crust of bread, chewing slowly as he listened to Oren's yarn.

I feel like Rata would like to join in on the fun as well (especially considering Jacinth has shown interest in joining) but the proposed time is right smack dab in the middle of a working shift for the both of us so I'm not exactly sure how that will work. What do our work shifts involve now that we have the reinforcement of the hired hands? I feel like Rata and Jacinth's little heart-to-heart will be much more interesting with a little rum thrown into the mix, haha.

As Reknar and Nef's conversation turns to the matter of Horus and his guiding principles, Rata silently excuses himself from the dialogue. It is no secret that Rata cares little for gods. Plus, he had work to do.

During their first shift (0800-1200) Rata kept to himself, although he kept an eye on their new help. As Kal raised his voice in deep song as he worked, Rata couldn't help but feel the man's words assuage his soul, melting away his anxiety over their hardships at sea. He dropped down from the lines, padding over to the man he spoke to him in his native dialect, "Your song was... comforting to me in some way. What do the words mean? They stirred something inside of me that I can't quite put to words..." He trailed off, quite uncomfortable at the fact that he was speaking about such personal matters with a man he only just recently met.

Diplomacy to find out more about Kal's song: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (7) + 8 = 15

1200

After their short shift had ended, Rata likewise made his way down below decks to get some sleep. He stopped for a moment just outside of Jacinth's door, silently listening to her rhythmic breathing. He placed a hand upon her door, feeling the grain of the wood beneath his rough palm. Rest easy... My captain. He turned to his own room, gently closing the door behind him before collapsing into bed himself.

Rata's dreams are quite strange during his short rest, and certainly troubling to the Mwangi native…

Floating in the misty air just out of reach, Rata looks on in horror as he watches Usha chained to the center of a pond lilly stranded at sea, rough waves crashing down upon her, a terrible wound at her temple staining the side of her face crimson. Rata pleads to his beloved sister, "Usha, hold on just a little longer. I'll be there as soon as I can, just hold on!" But as hard as he tried, he never got closer, whatever was holding him in place had him held fast. He looked down at her again, and noticed that in place of her chestnut hair and rounded ears, she had long golden hair and pointed ears. Her deep tan had been replaced by alabaster skin. But it was still her face - still his biological twin. He could tell she was getting weary from the blood loss, and the waves slamming into her were taking their toll. "Usha, don’t close your eyes! Look at me!" She raised her eyes to him and they were green instead of brown, and despite the waves, he could tell that those were tears mingled with the blood staining her face. He growled at the futility of it all and strained his arms against whatever invisible bonds held him, and at last, they broke free. His jubilation was short-lived, however, as he looked down in horror to see the huge cast iron weights chained to his ankles. He screamed as he plunged straight past the huge white blossom holding his sister prisoner, slicing through the bone-chilling waters, his bellow cut short as the seas filled his lungs and silenced his protests…

1600ish

Rata woke with a gasp, drenched in sweat, his rapid fire heartbeat filling his ears. He heard voices outside of his cabin and shot out of bed and threw the door open. Sheet white and slick with sweat, he stared at the three figures in confusion, and a long moment passed before he remember who they were and where he was. ”Oren, Nef, Jacinth… I, uh… Sorry, I didn’t mean to startle you. Is something wrong?”

As the newcomer emerges onto the deck, Rata wastes no time in drawing two daggers and readying them for a throw, should he prove to be hostile.

As the man replies to Nef's greeting, he relaxes a bit. "Well, at least we share a similar outlook on slavers." he says, a slight mirth to his voice. He still holds his knives, but clearly he doesn't plan on using them unless something goes horribly awry. He maintains his position just outside of Jacinth's long shadow.

Sense motive aid another: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (5) + 5 = 10 Nice, barely.

Looking to Nef, he gives his nod of assent. "Aye, he speaks the truth from what I can gather." Looking back to the battered man, he gestures to his bruised face, "Had a rough go of things of late?"

To Jacinth

Rata nods to her reasoning, "Yes, I am sure many challenges await at Dolentla. Things could be very different after our time there comes to an end." He pauses as looks out over the waters for a moment and with a long sigh, he returns his gaze to Jacinth. "After the attack on my father's ship, I thought I would never set foot on another ship, and yet here I am. Sometimes, we don't always end up quite where we'd expect." he gives her a warm look.

"Your friends, I hope - for your sake and theirs - that they have the means to fight. That they are still struggling to survive and that we find them alive." He lifts his hands from the rails and straightens, wiping the grit from a long day's work from his calloused hands. "Nobles are an eccentric lot, but they're not all bad." He squints his face, mimicking a searching look, "Then again, they were friends of yours..." He gives Jacinth a wry smile. "We will speak tonight. Until then." He gives an almost imperceptible bow and then turns to see to other matters.

Presently

A sarcastic retort about how he wasn't some errand boy died on his lips as Rata realized that Nef deserved better than that, given her current emotional state. "Ah, yeah, of course Nef. I'll see to it." He walks over to the rail, pulling a dagger from his bandolier as he does so, and slices off a tiny splinter of wood before sticking the knife between his teeth and making his way across the rope bridge to the deck of the Rita...

Continuing the dialogue with Jacinth...

A slight smile touches Rata's lips as Jacinth uncharacteristically stammers over her words. As she looks away he is emboldened by her reaction and raises a tentative hand, placing it gently upon her slender shoulder, "I'm glad you agree. I think our group would gladly accept you if you choose to remain with us once our contract has been fulfilled." He pauses for a moment, an inner monologue seeming to take place. Coming to some unseen conclusion, he continues, "Your... Harships at Dolentla. I would speak with you about them sometime. I feel- I feel like we would both benefit greatly from sharing in each other's burdens. Maybe sometime tonight? After we return to the Rita?" The smile on his lips remains as his brown eyes sparkle in the sunlight - a spot of foam in a cup of dark espresso...

Presently...

As Jacinth excuses herself, Rata quickly speaks up, Ah, of course, I'll come with-" but she is already knifing through the celebratory Tulita before he can finish his offer. He wastes no time in trotting after her, although his wider girth makes it a touch more difficult for him to maneuver through the merriment.

He catches the tail end of her comment, "Nef, what is wrong. Has something happened?" before quickly turning his gaze to the embracing couple. He notices Nef wiping her face with her sleeve and looks to the resoulte man. "Nef, are you alright?" he says over Jacinth's shoulder, concern clearly evident in his tone.

His eyes widen at the news and he can't help hide his surprise. "Zem, friend, are you sure about this? There is honor in helping your people, for sure, but there is just as much honor in helping your friends."

I concur to hiring four natives as well as mandatory nicknames. One of them must be called 'Butterfly'.

Previously...

Rata's thoughts focused on far-away cares and distant memories, he doesn't notice that the scuffle behind him is fast approaching. It isn't until Ke' tosses Hazeltree over the rails and into the azure depths that he is brought out of his reverie, screaming back to the present. Rata remains frozen in shock for a long moment, his mouth hanging agape, before he finally begins to unravel.

"Heh. Eh, heh heh heh. HA. HahahaHAHAHAAAAA!" He doubles over, slapping his knee and clutching at his flexing abdomen, the veins in his neck popping as the rush of laughter completely overtakes his body. Wiping at his streaming eyes, he slaps Ke'ahilani on the back. "Ah, that was just what this group needed. Now if that's not the best way I've ever seen of settling an arguement! Ke' you're a good man! Ha HAH!" Rata is in very rare form as he makes his way over to the other natives, grabbing up Oren en route, beckoning him to join them in their celebration of freedom.

In his reverie, he does notice the defeated look on Nef's face as she holds Zem close and he flashes her a concerned look - a look of understanding and apology. I am sorry dear friend, but I fear you must cope with the brutal truth that most freedoms aren't bought with words - they are sticky to the touch and smell and taste of iron for their price in blood is quite high.

Presently...

Rata quickly tucks away the documents and returns to the top deck. He silently awaits for a break in the conversation before getting Jacinth's attention. Whispering, "I found some documents that may interest you. They were locked away and marked with Hazeltree's seal. I believe they are shipping records. Exactly where these Tulitians were being taken is probably detailed within. Something of great interest to the right people... Or a matter for us to look into, perhaps? After our business at Dolentla has concluded, of course." He gives her a knowing look.

Rata crosses his arms over his chest, grunting with an air of finality, "Let's just get him back to his men so that we can get back to the Rita. We've got an ancient elven lab to find and some hostile creatures to deal with." The matter settled in his mind, he heads up to the main deck, scanning the remaining Tulitians on board before turning his gaze to the open waters in silent contemplation.

Yeah, I'm not seeing the exact reason as to why this issue has come up. Isn't arguing and disagreeing all part of the show? I say we drop it and continue on. It's been getting really good since we've been at sea and I'd like to keep the roll we're on going.

Rata doesn't care if he's charmed, confused, bewildered, or if he suddenly turns pink with green spots. He knows what he is and he disgusts him. He he. But yes, I did forget he was charmed. Maybe all of these threats will break the enchantment? Then Rata certainly wouldn't hesitate to put a dagger in his belly. Maybe that was Rata's plan all along! Yes, let's go with that. :)

Rata stands firmly behind Nef, shoulder to shoulder with Zemwaar, watching the wordsmith present an ultimatum to the outmatched and outwitted captain. His passionate nature gets the better of him, and his efforts to hold his tongue fail him.

Tactlessly, he says with cold certainty, "Make your choice quickly, Captain, for unlike my companions, my patience has run short and you should be thanking whatever gods you make your peace with that we are letting you off of this ship with your entrails entact." His fingers twitch, yearning for Hazeltree to make one false move so that he may draw his blades and make quick work of the despicable man. "Maybe in the future you will think twice about enslaving those who happen to be less fortunate than yourself?" His eyes glint like arrowheads.

Intimidate aid another: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (17) + 10 = 27

I wanted so badly to chime in during the last few days, those were some great exchanges! Luckily, I have returned. With 20/20 vision, no less. ;)

Bluff to aid another: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24

Rata seemed about to say something, but kept his silence as Jacinth's quick mind formulated the plan of feigning disease had befallen Captain Hazeltree. He followed the others to the main deck, and stands ready, anticipating the arrival of their companions and the next development in this sticky situation. I am willing to fight, and die, to see these natives freed. No man, no matter their cause or creed, should be subjected to enslavement...

Rata follows close behind Zemwaar, making no move to hide the fact that he has a veritable cutlery set strapped to his chest. He eagerly scans the crew with depressingly desperate eyes, hopeful at the chance of seeing his father, yet conscious of the fact that he most likely will not be aboard the Iron Bastion.

Perception to assist Zem: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (2) + 9 = 11

Rata gives Jacinth a silent nod, and tension eases from his shoulders. You get the impression that a part of him desperately wanted to be among those chosen to parley. A swirl of emotions rage in his mirror-like eyes, but a slight smile graces his lips as the Captain casts him a knowing look. "Thank you, Captain. Hopefully fair weather favors us again this day. And if they try anything, they will quickly find that a dagger has sprouted from their chest. A few, actually." His smile adopts a wickedness that may or may not be unsettling to the observer.

She trusts me to some extent, it seems. But do I trust her? He checks that his daggers are readily available in their sheaths and hurriedly sets to manning the tops, quick to carry out Jacinth's orders to close the distance between the Rita and the mysterious slaver ship.

"If the slaves have taken over, that is surely something worth looking into. I realize I am only one man, but I won’t tolerate slavery if I can help it. Raids by slavers were commonplace along the Slithering Coast and southern edge of the Shackles. Maybe we could provide the slaves with aid and assist them in their flight? Potential allies, perhaps?" And for all I know my father could be one.

Man that would be an awesome twist if Rata was unexpectedly reunited with his missing father, haha. I am tempering my expectations, of course, as I am aware that that is very unlikely to be the case.

Taz considers her words carefully, weighing the pros and cons. Uninterested in talk of tactics and numbers, Tazennin gets right to the point that has him most intrigued, the reward, of course, "Is there a reward involved in all this?" he says slyly, "Perhaps if we do this for you and everything goes to your liking, I can can forgo my portion of the gold and be counted among the ranks of your spies? Surely, you could use a man of my exceptional... talents." He purrs that last bit, but it comes out as more of a sickly sweet croon.

Diplomacy: 1d20 - 1 ⇒ (8) - 1 = 7

Yep, about what I expected. Her rebuttal should be a treat, hah. I toyed with playing out this proposal after our meeting, one-on-one, or over PM, but then I figured putting it out there for all to see/hear would be much more entertaining! I'll begin working on a backup character...

Rata currently rests soundly belowdecks. But prior to him bedding down he was plagued with thoughts. No, not those of Usha or the whereabouts of his father, but thoughts of a certain woman. An elvish woman to be exact...

2100... or thereabouts

Gazing up at the stars, the calm night a welcome reprieve from the chaotic weather typical of the Razor, Rata's ponders, Jacinth. The way she dealt with Filthy Jack so swiftly, just like Usha would've done - Like I would've done. I know she has never been to Bloodcove or the Mwangi, but she acts like one of us. And noble to boot. He shakes his head at that last thought, Foolish she may have been for leading such an unprepared crew to seek whatever ancient alchemist's chamber she had her sights set on, but can I really fault her for being so passionate about something? When was the last time I was that driven for something, aside from my own quest for revenge?

Wiping a hand across his face he is surprised to see the wetness of tears glistening on his fingers, She holds her head high while doing what she can to make amends for her mistakes, and I can barely bring myself to board a ship. Am I really that weak? How can she be so strong? Maybe... Maybe there is common ground there. Is there a chance that we could build something meaningful on the foundation of our past disgraces? I... I'm not quite sure. But, maybe...

Rata jumps down to the main deck just as Nef and Jacinth are finishing up their discussion of pending weather patterns. Luckily, as Nef excuses herself belowdecks, Jacinth lingers a moment longer. Now's my chance, but what to say? Struggling for words, he blurts out the first thing that comes to him, "A-a lovely night. Don't stay up too late. You need your rest as much as the rest of us..." Caught up in the awkward moment of silence that followed, and quite tongue-tied, he hurriedly excused himself as well, and disappeared belowdecks with a small, but helpless grin.

No need for that Nef, if we're following the schedule you posted in the discussion earlier, then I will simply follow that. Thanks as always for your efforts in clarifying things. You are the winds that fill the sails of this campaign. Too cheesy? Haha.

And about Jacinth, funny you should mention that... Stay tuned.

Rata laughs at Oren's abrupt manner, and nods along with him, although he still gives the man-shark a hard glare, "In the Mwangi, stowaways are dealt with swiftly and without mercy. Make him walk the plank, he'll be out of our hands and most likely survive the encounter, since you are so worried about saving him - this "man". As far as I'm concerned he is a man no longer. No man that I am aware of can shapechange into a shark and thirsts for blood." Gesturing to his daggers, "If it were up to me, I'd slit his throat and be done with it. After we question him, of course. I am curious as to how he came to be upon our ship."

Diplomacy?: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (3) + 8 = 11

If we're going to agonize over every little detail of this trip, it's going to be a long voyage, indeed...

Rata found it quite strange that everyone was attempting to heal the fellow while his dagger was still lodged in the man's chest. Bending down, he grasped the hilt and quickly pulled it free, causing a sickening slihnk sound. He quickly found a rag in the hold and proceeded to clean the blade before sliding it back into it's usual place across his chest.

He had to smirk at Jacinth's comment, "Yes... Ships and fire. Not the best combination." He smiles at Ke', tapping his head with a finger indicating think before you act. Looking down at the man, half-kidding and half-serious, "So, he walks the plank, then? But maybe he should answer a few questions first." He turns a cold-eyed gaze on the man.

Intimidate: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (19) + 10 = 29

Rata's jaw goes slack as he sees the wereshark tear into the eagle's wing, "Look out, Wedjat!"

If the eagle's ridiculous flurry of attacks haven't already slain the creature...

Rata pulls one of the many daggers from the bandolier across his chest and flings it at the beast's open maw.

Thrown mwk dagger with deadly aim and precise strike and Nef's buffs and the penalty for being in melee: 1d20 + 13 - 2 + 3 - 4 ⇒ (4) + 13 - 2 + 3 - 4 = 14
Damage: 1d4 + 9 + 4 + 5 + 3 ⇒ (4) + 9 + 4 + 5 + 3 = 25

FYI, Rata's daggers go BOOM. And I love your buffs Nef. I play a flagbearer buff bard in another game and it is very nice to be on the receiving end of those buffs for once, haha!

Rata easily dropped the last five feet to the main deck, taking a moment to stretch his limbs and back. With a sigh of contentment, the long day's work having done well to keep his mind off of darker thoughts, he was about to head belowdecks when Aikane taps him on the waist. "Huh-?" he replies, but quickly silences his inquiry as he notices Aikane flashing the signal for silence. His brow furrowed in curiosity, Rata gives a silent nod after Aikane indicates the hatch leading down to the hold. He crouches down low and begins crawling over to the hatch, but, unfortunately, as he does so one of his joints gives a loud crack, and a startled exclamation escapes his lips. Giving Aikane an apologetic look, he approaches the hatch, listening intently for whatever sound that might've stoked the menehune's cause for concern.

Stealth: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (4) + 5 = 9
Perception: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (12) + 9 = 21

Feeling refreshed after a good 8 hours of sleep, Rata rises and once again returns to manning the sails and lines of the tops. He breathes in deep, the salty air clearing his lungs and his mind alike. The wind rips through his hair, causing the beads and shells woven within to tinkle and flash. He gives Oren and Aikane a wave, signalling that everything seems to be running smoothly for the moment. He turns his gaze to the east, anticipating a glorious sunrise on this brand new day. The blazing red globe illustrating his thoughts... The color of blood.

Usha, if you can hear me, I will find them. It won't be today, and it probably won't be tomorrow, but I will find the men that took your life. Their blood will be spilled.

---

I've placed Rata next to Wedjat, signifying his place among the tops. Feel free to move him if another square would better represent his current location.

I'm kinda lost in the sheer volume of posts from this past weekend so someone nudge Rata when he's supposed to wake up for his shift and I'll pick up from that point, haha. These weekend posts never cease to amaze me!

Meanwhile I'll take a gander at adding in the Navigation skill to Rata's repertoire and as soon as someone can tell me where Rata currently is (with him failing that Fort save, I honestly have no idea) I'll gladly edit that here map thingy.

Edit: Welp, apparently I don't have any skills in survival or kn. geo. so I guess Rata's navigation is staying at nil unless I can pull from other skills.

Once the odd business of the minotaur was done, Rata watched Aikane run off after the lumbering brute. What is he up to, indeed… He hailed the Captain and Jenks aboard, leading them belowdecks to a private chamber where they could talk.

Sitting himself across from the Captain, Rata clears his throat, ”Thank you for taking the time to meet with me, Captain Montgomery. I apologize that you had to go out of your way to track me down at the Rita, I would’ve gladly returned to the Pig’s Whistle to speak with you there.” Rata appears quite sincere in his apology, as he didn’t want to burden the obviously troubled captain any further.

Continuing, “As Jenks here has probably already informed you, I am Rata Fenn and I seek information pertaining to a pirate vessel, the Wailing Gypsy. It was this vessel that was responsible for sinking my father’s merchant vessel the Concord. I lost my-“ He breaks eye contact with the man, looking down at the table and swallowing hard before continuing, ”I lost my sister, Usha, in the attack and my father’s whereabouts are currently unknown, but I hold out hope that he is still alive somewhere in the Razor.”

After a pause, ”I am wondering if you might have any connections to, ah, the seedier side of dealings in Port Shaw. I have yet to find anyone who has heard of the ship, and I fear it may have been rechristened. Or, possibly, if you might know of anyone with any past or present dealings in piracy. Surely, the Wave Riders have put down a pirate ship or two in their time.” Rata smiles at this, hoping to bring out some sort of reverie in the gruff captain. ”Any assistance you would be willing to offer me would be a great help I can assure you. I fear I would be rebuffed if I attempted to seek the help of Bonaduce and his Dragoons.” Rata looks at him with genuine pleading in his eyes. He eagerly awaits the Captain’s reply, hoping to finally have some answers to his long sought after questions.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18

At Jacinth's confession, Rata couldn't control himself. Torn from his silent spectatorship, he flew off the rails, a few quick strides bringing him right in front of the interrogated woman, "Low risk, high reward you say? Surely, you know these waters hold perils that would make short work of your small ship and your "crew". How could you be so nieve? What kind of a captain are you that you would risk the lives of your friends for some... lab!" His chest heaved as his pulse raced. The words practically flew from his lips, the daggers splayed across his chest never more apparent, their razor's edge glinting just in front of the woman's shocked expression.

"Some of us have lost much to the perils of the sea. And they would give anything, anything to have them back. And here you stand, confessing to throwing away the lives of so many, and so carelessly." Rata visibly deflates, but his anger boils like a kettle close to bursting.

Rata leans against the rails of the ship, watching the spectacle unfold before him.

Nef seems intent on ripping the truth right out of her, and I can't blame her, but... I have no questions that I would ask out in the open in front of our crew. I do have much to discuss with Jacinth behind close doors... Perhaps after our journey has begun.

A slight smile graces his lips when Nef speaks of her feelings towards him, but, for now, he was content to play the role of silent spectator, his curiosity firmly in check.

Sounds like a solid plan to me. Tack on a 10' pole? Never go wrong with that.

As the group departs the Tolchrist manor, Rata can't contain his elation, "Six thousand additional gold!? Haha! Maybe we should make appointments with all of the houses before we leave-" He stopped short when he realized what he was saying. These families were all fearful that they had lost a daughter or a son. He realized his words were extremely tactless and insensitive. His demeanor changed isntantly, "What am I saying? These people suffer the crushing burden of loss. Uncertain whether or not they will ever see their loved ones again." He swallowed hard, "Much like myself... And my father. And here I am celebrating about getting more money. What kind of monster am I...?" Rata drops to the back of the group, brooding once again with his own inner monologue.

. . .

After Rata has had some time to compose himself, he would make his way to the Pig's Whistle once again to check up on Captain Montgomery before their 2 o'clock meeting on the Rita.

Anticipating the fact that Jenks had told the Captain of his earlier visit and what information he sought, he will once gain voice his questions regarding the whereabouts of the Wailing Gypsy. I figured it would be kind of redundant to type the same thing out all over again.

---

In terms of shopping, I as a player run into a few problems. First off, as I expressed in the discussion, I know next to nothing about nautical travel, so I will defer to the rest of the group in that regard. Secondly, I have actually never played at this high a level in my short career as a Pathfinder player (I have many times in D&D, but that was years ago) and it seems like Oren's list of precautionary items is all inclusive, so I am more than happy to volunteer Rata's share of the gold towards that effort.

Also, Zem, if it makes any difference, Rata already has a compass that he would be more than happy to lend to you or whomever else may wish to use it.

Ah, I forgot about our meeting with the Tolchrist family. In that case I will pursue Donovan Montgomery since he is the closest nearby.

Entering the Pig's Whistle, Rata makes a beeline for the bartender, "Good morning. Has Donovan Montgomery been by lately? Or is he staying here, perhaps? I wish to speak with him."

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (18) + 8 = 26

Last night...

"But, of course I'll go with you, Nef. You don't even need to ask. Same for all of us, I'm sure."

Rata spoke up abruptly, "Ahem, actually I have some things I want to attend to-" But then he remembered his promise to Lucky. To check up on him and make sure he was keeping off the pipe. But, then again, that had only been two days ago (I think?) so he decided to give the struggling man more time to recover.

"Yes, I believe I will attend to other matters on the morrow. As you know, this land and it's practices are quite foreign to me, even though my father and I have sailed here many times before." He paused at that, pain flashing across his face. He gulped, but continued in a strong voice, "I didn't have the chance to interact with the locals to learn their ways as my father kept me busy hauling freight while we were at port. Besides," he says with a note of finality to his voice, "in my experience, the terrors of the sea are quite real, and not manifestations of spirits or gods. Good luck in your efforts, I will check in here around midday." And with that he downs his drink and heads up to his room.

Today

Rata will wake up early and start his search. Recalling the rumors the group had gathered over the last few days, he decided to try to track down some of the old members of the Wave Riders, thinking ex-adventurers accustomed to sailing the waters around the Razor would know of a pirate or two. He begins asking around about the whereabouts of Jalia Ramires, Captain Donovan Montgomery, Belok Talorg, and Zalen Trafalgar focusing his efforts in the Bawd district, and expanding into the Tide district.

Gather Information: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18

Rata is a very practical man who prefers to address tangible issues in the here and now. Since the attack he doesn't have a shred of spirituality left in his body, so he isn't particularly interested in appeasing the Whale, whether or not the idea proves to be fruitful. Also, just as a small aside, Nef you keep referring to Rata as a swordsman, but he actually wields lots and lots of daggers. He's got a bandolier of them strapped across his chest and throws them more than he wields them in melee. If you want to know more here is the flying blade archetype.

Yes, you've been a breath of fresh air on these boards. Thanks again for taking the helm, Almighty Toothed One.

As Rata massages his temples, a thought occurs to him. "Now that I've had a chance to think things over with a clear head, did anyone else notice that Relgin claimed the Rita to be named after Harok's late wife, while we overheard that he was calling out to his wife Jessica when he was found after he supposedly murdered his family?" He considers for a moment, "Maybe he had more than one wife? Or perhaps it was from a previous marriage?"

"Also, I'm uncertain how he can claim that "man-sharks" were responsible for the deaths of his loved ones when his mouth was covered in blood. Maybe both parties were involved? A troubling tale, either way..." Rata looked as if he were physically wilting. Apparently, thoughts of their present concerns weren't much better than the dark visions of his past. "Ugh, I could use a stiff drink right about now."

In response to Nef's proposed plan...

Slightly tipsy, Rata nods his silent ascent, agreeing that they should know the full story before risking their lives on the voyage to save Jacinth's companions.

Awesome, thanks Nef. I'll copy that into my Razor Coast doc. While we're at it, at the rate this game is going, we should rechristen this land Rumor Coast, hah.

Edit: Well, now I'm really confused. In my rumor notes, I have Harok McFarrows' wife's name as Jessica. Maybe the ship was named after Relgin's wife?

Rata followed along with the exchange concerning which ship would best suit their needs. He chimed in whenever his expertise as a sailor seemed helpful. As Jacinth argued that the Rita wouldn't hold up against pirates... A low groan escaped his lips and his vision clouded over with images of his past. He remembered...

The screams... The harsh reality that Usha was truly dead. He would never see her smile, hear her laugh... The anger, the rage, the hollow press of crushing sorrow. Murder, blood, vengeance... But ultimate failure."

Rata's knees went slack as the sensation of plunging into frigid waters, stabbing his flesh like ten thousand needles, assaulted his very being. His face pressed against the slick boards of the dock, his arms covering his head as if to ward off the memory, his jaw locked as he began to convulse uncontrollably...

"F-f-f-failed her... I failed her! F-f-father are you out there? Can you hear me!?"

Rata loks to Nef, the faint smile on his lips wilting slightly, "For now, yes. When we set sail, though... That remains to be seen." He took comfort in her concern, but the passageways of the mind could often lead to dark and disturbing places. He wasn't certain he had the strength to traverse their halls.

He looked her directly in the eyes, "I couldn't help but feel a kinship with the woman, having gone through much of the same thing. It was terrifying and something I would rather not dwell on, but maybe the time will come when I can share my story with her." His eyes were distant as he couldn't help but remember...

It was a long moment before he brought himself back to the present, "But until that time, with all of your support, I am sure it will be something I can overcome. Lend me your strength and we will get through this together." The slight smile returned.

Rata looks at Nef like she has gone utterly insane, but when he sees he's the only one reacting in this manner, he realizes she is serious. "Yes, a spirit whale... Well, spirit or no, any encounter with an angry whale at sea is an encounter I'd rather avoid, so if you think there is a peaceful way to go about it, I'm all for it."

He turns to Senegar, "I would hear more of these ships."

Rata brightened visibly when talk shifted from contractual disputes to finalizing the deal over lunch.  He realized that he hadn't yet eaten that day.  As he listened to the woman he got a sense that there was something more to be garnered from her words...

Sense motive: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (5) + 5 = 10

...but apparently his gnawing hunger was causing him to imagine things.  Eagerly, he began scanning the room for a menu...

Hah, nice ninja edit!

...but noticed that Oren had already flagged down a server and was ordering enough to feed the entire district. Hmmm, good man.

Rata chimes in after being prompted by Nef, "I am fine with aiding the Viscount and his niece since it seems we will benefit from having him as an ally in the future.  Plus, I can't help but feel sympathetic to the girl, having lost loved ones at sea." Rata pauses long, considering the woman in a newfound light.  He continues, "You may need to lend me your strength as we shove off as I have not been aboard a ship since the Concord.  I am unsure how I will react once we set sail for troubled waters."  His eyes turn dark and distant as he remembers their screams - the waters turned crimson with the blood of his family and friends...

Shaking himself, he returns to the present and the task at hand, "Otherwise, I say aye, let us be on with this mission.  The sooner we're done with it, the better." 

Hmm, not my best writing. It would seem the words aren't flowing as well this morning.

Having served as guard upon the Concord, Rata was never involved in contractual discussions or trading agreements, his father being the one who handled those matters. Therefore, as he perused the documents he wasn't entirely sure what he was looking at, although his eyes narrowed as they passed over the clause mentioning possibly being sunk by the Dragoons. His confidence bolstered by the arrival of the rest of their allies, he looked over the papers with an intent eye, giving Nef a silent nod of approval after an appropriate amount of time.

Bluff: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (10) + 8 = 18

Rata's silence continued as he decided to only speak if spoken to. He just wanted to get this meeting over with so that they could do whatever task required of them so they could have access to the viscount's extensive social network. His primary goal would not be swayed from tracking down the Wailing Gypsy.