"How many men crew the Dragon's Tail, excluding the captain," Ptahh asks Sorrin as they headdown the boardwalk toward the ship. "There seem to be few here... and I should like to take some to guard the Baron."
Looking around at the lone dragoon on patrol, he continues without waiting for a response, The docks seem oddly quiet... A concerned expression emerges on his face. Something doesn't feel right.
"I'm sure you are more than capable to handle yourself." He says with confidence. "Yes, I asked around about you but not to Father Zalen. Belok was able to guide me in your direction. I was actually heading to the Chapterhouse to seek you out." He stops speaking for a few paces. "I think it is you, who can help me with a situation."
The drunks reconsider their initial plans. they grumble and stumble in another direction leaving the Astri and Bri along.
"Really?" She comes to a complete stop, surprised by the statement. Jin, a more than capable fighter and champion of the Broken Skull needed her help for something. What could she possibly do that he couldn't handle alone? Even if she wasn't naturally helpful, curiosity would have been enough. "What do you need? Oh. Wait." She leans forward again, voice low. "Can you say it out loud or should we continue to the Chapterhouse?"
Once inside the Chapterhouse he discloses his purpose. "When I fight, I do it for others, those who need a champion. There is a house in Bawd District, it is where the unwanted children go. I think in your language it is called an orphanage. I give my winnings to it, I need very little for myself, but there are two children there who were bit by sharks today." He looks at the priestess.
Bri will continue to head on to the Whore with Astri then. Glad I didn't need to bother wasting a spell on those scum.
The two guards on the Dragon's Tail spend a few moments eye-balling the half-orc.
You see a couple others tossing some knuckle bones on the deck and there is movement in the large hold below.
"Oh. I am sorry to hear that. And Father Zalen is probably too busy to help with the Chapterhouse under-manned. All right. I'll help. The sooner the better." Chell pauses at the door. This could be as simple as it sounds. A hurt child. Or it could be far, far worse. Best not to take chances. "Wait here," she says. The priestess hunts through the store room for bandages and other mundane healing supplies and also grabs two doses of Wolfsbane if available. Otherwise she will have to make a pit stop by the Divinity store again or an apothecary. She leaves 71gp behind to pay for the supplies and then some. If she happens upon Father Zalen along the way she gives him an synopsis of what is going on. "Sorry. I'll be by tomorrow at some point." Then she follows Jin to the Orphanage.
Chell you don't see father Zalen around and in fact, nobody has seen him since lunchtime, but the acolyte is able to help you find some wolfbane and to your surprise the chapterhouse actually has several bundles of roots from this bluish flowered plant.
"You ok to go, now?" Jin asks.
That's odd. Its the only thought she can spare for the moment on Zalen's disappearance. "Yep."
Astri and Bri as you approach the Quell's Whore her sleek lines stand out to you, the darkwood sloop is a beauty. Standing on the docs are two sailors on guard duty and they have two counterparts at the foot of the gangplank. A pair of eyes follow you form the crows nest, as ship not likely to be caught unaware.
"How can we 'elp ladies?" the sailor asks in a professional tone.
Jin seems on the level to you.
Astrianna grins and gives Bri a squeeze on the shoulder. "Nice work. I wanted to rough them up a little, maybe see that new spell of yours, but you have a minotaur waiting."
As they approach the Quell's Whore she takes a moment to admire the ship's sleek form. Beautiful. I can't wait to see how the Baron handles. The Baron might be a freighter but we're going tomake her into a force to be reckoned with.
When they meet the sailors on guard duty the bard smiles. How professional. I'm going to like these sailors. The half-elf introduces them. "Astrianna Sparacello and Embrianna. Jonah and Korg invited us over for drinks."
Yooooooo, tell Boarding Mate Jonah and First Mate Korg they have visitors." Word is passed to the men on the ship and a few minutes later the two appear foredeck.
"Permission to come aboard granted!" The first mate yells down.
Bri whispers to Astrianna. "It would definitely be hard to sneak aboard this ship for any reason. Amorous or otherwise."
She will cheerfully walk on up the boarding plank with Astri, looking about for Jonah and/or Korg since at least one if not both should be there to meet up with them.
Astrianna leans in to Bri's whisper and nods her head. "Not surprising. Captain Razor has probably made many enemies privateering."
The bard walks up the boarding plank and surveys the ship for a moment, smiling at Jonah and Korg. "Jonah, Korg, good to see you. We're here to celebrate." She spreads her arms wide in a happy gesture. "We are the new owners of the Baron of the Tide!"
She sighs and looks behind her at the unattending companions. "Unfortunately Chell wasn't feeling well and Sorrin was all in a tizzy about securing our new ship. I guess he thinks someone is going to steal it or something. Ptahh, our new sword, went with him. So it's just us two for now." Astrianna slips an arm around Bri's shoulder and grins. "But honestly, we're the only ones that know how to have fun of the group, so no loss."
Yo! Sorrin, returning with Ptahh. He's our guest!
Permission to come aboard! Sorrin knows the ship is his, but decides to be formal.
Johan looks at the two ladies and waves them aboard, "Good ...good to see you, come drink. So what do you think of your new ship...how's the helm, I bet you've explored every inch of her."
Korg rumbles in giant his greeting, picking up Bri in huge minotaur hug.
"Permission granted...of course you're welcome aboard." The sailor a bit informally asks, "So did you sell the ship? Well that is what we 'eard when the folks from the office were walking around the dock. Capt. Donovan refused to let 'em on though, not without your permission." He shrugs a bit concerned. "We are we moving or are we out of job?" He is wide eyed. The crew clearly needs more training.
Astrianna laughs. "Haven't taken her out yet, but when we toured her she was beautiful. Not quite as elegant as the Quell's Whore, but incredible none-the-less. I'm very excited to explore her and see how she handles. Might even be some smuggling compartments the Dragoons missed... something Baron Shade stashed away, maybe? Wishful thinking."
The half-elf is on the hunt for some wine. "I could fiddle a piece or two in the mess if the crew is up for it."
Johan has a dumbfound expression, "You bought a ship," he shakes his head in disbelief, '...and haven't explored it post purchase...yet? Have you even gone aboard since you bought her?"
"Er...well we can get those on board to come up for some fiddling, if you want. Care for some wine?" His manners coming to him.
When Bri manages to catch her breath from Korg's hug, she'll laugh and comment: "Astri and I figured that we had best stick with our previous decision to come and visit first. Otherwise who knows when you two fellow would see us again?"
Sorrin boards with Ptahh, beside him. He makes introductions until he's within earshot of Captain Donovan.
His time is solemn. Gentlemen, your services are no longer required on the Dragon's Tail...
... because, you'll be stationed on the Baron of the Tides! So let's get the word out to the rest of the crew and start moving out!
Sorrin introduces Ptahh to Donovan and Jenkie and Roland if they're there then takes the time to deliver the details. He leaves out any editorial.
Jin leads you through the city a few times on the trip crowds seem to appear out of no where flock to him, seeking to ask him questions about various fights. He politely exchanges words to most but is quick to continue on with his journey. Of course, there are stares at his female companion. Several of the woman fixate on you like nasty daggers.
Eventually, you are lead through a couple dark twisting alleys until you come to an old weathered pine door with a stone knocker. There's a small sign over the archway, Urchins Home. Jin raps on the door with his knuckles.
There is a screech behind you. Two cats snarl and hiss at one another fighting over garbage. A creaking door opens, a bare flicker of light pierces the darkness.
"We've no more beds. No more waifs tonight." The old voices announces. A few whispered words are offered between Jin and the matron, then the door is opened. "Yes...yes do come in."
Korg's heavy breath warms your spine Bri, as the fur on his arms stands up at the contact. "You've a sight for weary eyes. You smell flowery." His giant hand rests comfortably on the small of your back.
Johan has a dumbfound expression, "You bought a ship," he shakes his head in disbelief, '...and haven't explored it post purchase...yet? Have you even gone aboard since you bought her?"
"Er...well we can get those on board to come up for some fiddling, if you want. Care for some wine?" His manners coming to him.
Astrianna shrugs and chuckles. "You would rather us be inspecting the rigging rather than being entertained by you all?" She says teasingly. "That's on tomorrow's agenda, she's not going anywhere. Besides, Sorrin has it covered. Look, I got a hell of a deal on selling the Dragon's Tail and purchasing the Baron. Celebration first, work later." She waves a hand dismissively.
When the wine is offered she gives an enthusiastic yes and takes a glass. "Absolutely, bring up the whole crew! I'll put on a show. I definitely won't be able to fiddle after I start drinking, so best do it now. Oh, and could we get a tour later? This ship is marvelous." The half-elf takes a sip of her wine and smacks her lips. "Mmm. Cheliaxian?"
Chell is surprised by Jin's popularity but she shouldn't have been. Popular in the ring for his fighting and popular in the city for his generosity. That she didn't know about but respected none-the-less. A caring soul here in Port Shaw. A rare find indeed. She found herself looking at him in a new light on the way over. How people crowded around him. How they smiled. She smiled herself. And some women happened to notice. The dirty looks surprised her. That is happening a lot nowadays. And she didn't deserve such ire...maybe. She stuck her tongue out at them. Childish yes, but maybe they would think differently.
He was handsome.
No. Bad. Focus. There was work to do. A lot of work to do. A. Lot. Maybe this wasn't the best line of thought either. Sharks meant Dajobas and after the were-sharks that meant every bite should be treated as a potential infection. If they were bitten recently then there was a chance to save them if that was the case. She wished she knew about the sharks earlier. After three days there was almost nothing they could do anymore. Not with Archibald gone. None were strong enough to dispel it. It was starting to smell like a plan. An evil plan.
"Um, hi. I am Chell Silves, cleric of Quell. Jin here tells me that some children were bit by a shark. He asked to help and it is my duty and pleasure to do so." She smiles and walks in.
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Ptahh greets Captain Donovan, Jenkie and Roland with a hearty shake of their hands and a long look in their eye. The cap'n seems a good man... he's seen death... might be longing for it... but not scared of it, I think. His firstmate is loyal to him, that's for sure... Roland... not sure where his loyalties lie... to the coin or to the crew?
Pleasure to meet you, Captain. And the two of you. I've heard good things from Sorrin and the ladies. Looking forward to our future endeavors. Where is the rest of the crew? We'd like to get the Baron secured tonight if possible.
On board the Dragon's Tail there are 11 crew members plus Capt Donovan present. Jenkie and the other 11 crew are on shore leave. Major Rowland happens to on board the ship also chatting with the Captain.
"Pleasure. The crew is on shore leave along with First Mate Jenkie. We have found it best to rotate leave to give a break between the training sessions. In fact Major Rowland was giving me a update on the progress of the primary marine boarding team." He glances over at Sorrin.
He stops then back tracks slightly, "We have a total of 22 crewman. Of those there are 6 Landsman, 4 Seaman, 7 Marines, and 5 Able Seaman. clearly 11 of those souls are as raw as moth'r nip after feeding. On board currently we have 3 Landsman, 2 Seaman, 4 Marines, 2 Able Seaman, Major Rowland and myself."
Ptahh you know that “Landsman” possess no special skills required for sailing or maintaining a ship but they can learn which is apparently what is going on here. As of right now the ship is going to run sloppy but it will sail.
"Congratulations on the acquiring the Baron of the Tide, he's a fine ship. She's much larger than this one and requires many more men to run effectively. He has 5 hull sections and 4 rigging sections so to skeleton him you'll need 27 men. Preferably sailors."
"I was walking his deck this morning and checked out the rigging, although he has 4 riggings, he only has enough sail for 3, so that will effect the speed and maneuverability. There's a a catapult hole through the main sail that will need repair."
Apologies, Captain... everything you speak of will need to pass through committee. I'm simply here as porter to help you move from one ship to the other.
My conscience would not allow otherwise. I'd thought it best to give you a status or situation report. If you need gold immediately to accomplish any task, I can offer it personally and freely. However, I do not have access to the communal or company funds.
Sorrin catches his breath.
I believe we have until noon tomorrow to complete our evacuation of the Dragon Tail. The Baron is available for immediate occupation. Paperwork, the payment of docking fees and such should have been finalized with Boris, upon some insistence.
Last I knew, we were negotiating fees and dock position possibly by the Barnacle, if not anchoring off shore all together. We need ever copper.
Quell you notice the dank interior of the run down three story building is in desperate need of repair. There are shoes and an assortment of clothing lining the entry hall but it does appear to have some order to it. the shoes are in small cubbies each marked with name.
"Oh thank Quell your 'ere. Little Tommy One Thumb and Tiny were bit while fishing. I did the best I could." she will escort you up to the second floor and an overcrowded room filled with 5 boys. Two of which have been bitten by sharks. One thumb is scrawny little rat of a boy that is missing part of his left hand. While Tiny is a heavy rotund boy. Each has their leg wrapped in bloody bandages.
"We care for 44 kids here...I say we but it really is only me, Auntie Murth she does the cooking, and cousin Maballe who helps with cleaning and the kids letters." She brightens up. "But since the gods brought us Jin 5-weeks ago things have gotten much better at least we have food, newer shoes and britches."
"So we still have responsibility of Dragon's Tail until noon tomorrow, so how many men do you want to move over to the Baron this evening?"
Ptahh looks at Sorrin, "I'd say half the crew, at least. The Captain stays with one and we... or I... stay at the other. Should be adequate to keep a full watch tonight at each ship... I'd rather be over cautious with the more expensive & newer ship."
Leaning in a little closer, he continues in a quieter voice, "Worst case... we lose a ship. Seems better to return the 4,200 for the Dragon's tail to Boris rather than risk our 9,600 gold investment in the Baron... preferrably it's a quiet, uneventful night on both ships."
Honestly, more over there... I agree. Everyone there, you and me here? He shrugs.
"Let's keep Rowland and three marines with us tonight. The four of them can rotate the watch, two at a time at the top of the gang plank... you and I alternating shifts patrolling the deck, as well... every 3 hours... we all sleep on the deck."
Turning to the Captain, "Captain Donovan, I'm sure the shore leave was well-deserved, but there is work to be done yet tonight. Send two reliable men to recall Jenkie and any of the others that can be readily found. Let all the men know that I'll treat them to a night rum... I'm not all work and no fun," Ptahh says with a large grin.
"Sorrin, want to take the Captain and the Able Seamen to go secure the Baron? I'll stay here with Rowland and wait for the First mate and the others."
The Captain nods to Major Rowland who grins, "Aye good to have you aboard." He's appreciative to have a decisive command given. "You heard the man...Hook and Clubby go fetch those you can find." He then points to those comprising of the teams. They gather their personal equipment and a days rations. Leaving behind the other meager supplies.
With a little more gusto, Ptahh looks to the quartermaster, "Major Rowland, have the landsmen and seamen pack up the remaining supplies and any gear that is coming with us and have them bring it topside. Once everything is ready, have two marines accompany them as they make trips hauling it to the Baron."
Turning to Captain Donovan, Ptahh continued his unprecedented barrage, " As the men on shore leave return, we'll continue to send supplies and gear along with marines. With your leave, Cap'n, I'm going to have a look around the Dragon Tail."
Hmm... that felt good... Ptahh raises to his full height, his hands on his hips as he looks about the deck watching the men move about. He hadn't given a general order before, only battle commands to a few marines on the rare occasion that someone had attempted to board the Weasel without permission. The nerves that he had first felt as he spoke to the Captain tonight were gone; a confidence was growing in him. And he felt it.
Now, if only I could feel this way when the ladies are here...
44? Good gods that's a lot of work. Chell runs her hand over part of the wooden building. It was an impressive place. Three stories was rare, even in a place like Port Shaw. They were lucky to have that much space. But age and location probably played a factor. She could see broken or warped boards. Missing, broken and protruding nails. Squeaky hinges and chipped paint. It wasn't safe for children but it was all they had and all they could do to keep it standing. It would take days and all of her magic to make any headway.
As with most places full of children, they ran to and fro with frightening speed. They knew the building intimately and dodged the worst places nimbly. And as accustomed to running children as she was, Chell dodges the children just as nimbly and Jin could dodge punches. Even when she appeared to be paying attention to someone else she never got in the way of a game of tag. But neither did their guide.
Before seeing to the two boys she leans over to their guide and asks for a clean bucket or a basin. She takes in the small, cramped space that is the home for 5 boys. Thin canvass covered the window in place of glass, cobwebs hung in the corners, and the beds, if you could call them that, were flat and hard. One thing that surprised her was that two of the boys were playing checkers on a makeshift board of wood and charcoal and rocks as pieces. She approaches them with a caring smile and a gentle hand. "Hi. My name is Chell. Would like to see some magic?" At their nod she indicates the board. "May I?" She then takes the board and the rocks and sits them in front of all the kids. With a little concentration and few uttered words of power, all the rocks pop up and transform into crude looking knights vs warriors. Now they had a real checkers game.
While they are distracted by the new pieces she places her hand on the edge of the basin and fills it from the bottom up with water. She then approaches the two wounded boys. "May I have look at your wounds? What I am going to do might hurt a bit but I promise you won't even know you were wounded when I am done. Okay?" If they accept she pulls out bandages, vials and other healing items and begins her work. She soaks both boy's legs in the water and gingerly removes the bandages. She looks them over for signs of infection, specifically for Lycanthropy.
Whether she sees something or not her face remains blank as if nothing is wrong. She then takes of hold of their leg gently and pours positive energy into the wounds, accelerating the healing process and leaving only a mildly pink scar.
The checker players ooh-and-ah with their new pieces. After brief argument they settle on who would be the knight and who would be the warrior.
The injured boys are both feverish and their wounds, although clean, are raw and angry. There's a clear oily ointment on the wounds to prevent infection and that appears to be doing the job. Your thorough examination of each boy reviews that they do in deed have the lycanthropy affliction. Their skin knits back together with your healing spells, this brings about smiles from your patients and the others in the room.
Onboard Quell's Whore:
The wine and ale begin to flow when Astri picks up her fiddle to play. the crew stomps and dances, Korg swings Bri around.
2 Seaman (Hook and Clubby) go revoking shore leave. They are reliable and they know by sight the other crew members.
Sorrin, Capt Donovan, 2 Marines, 2 Able Seaman head to the Baron of the the Tide.
Ptahh, Major Rowland, 3 landsman and 2 Marines stay on the the Dragon's Tail. Preparing items to be moved to the Baron.
Astrianna smiles as the crew gathers to hear her performance, removing the The Brightening from its case. Thank goodness for this haversack... my violin would have never survived the Hungermarsh.
She tunes the instrument and warms up before launching into a furious rendition of Drunken Sailor, encouraging the crew to sing.
The air itself threatens to catch fire with her vibrant sawing!