At Hack's mention of mercenaries, Taissa shakes her head in dissent.
"I will offer my skill for scouting and tracking. But I will not be a mercenary, working for any with coin enough to buy my services. Like Geser, I prefer to stay clear of wicked motives."
"We didn't even have a chance to decide amongst us what we wanted to do - not that I am saying that what one decides the others have to follow, but I was just wondering your opinion on all that has transpired"
Looking back at them, he adds - "From my part, I still think there a couple of loose ends and wildcards on all of this - I don't trust the girl found below, and would prefer not to have her on board for one. And then there is this idol. I mean, I have heard about such things, but the wrongness of it when we approached was almost palpable - fortunately I am not a religious guy" - he shrugs - "I am up for going to Osirion - I am kinda sick of this cold weather, and it seems some good coin can be made out of it all, and that is always a good thing"
Pondering for a few moments further, he adds - "I'm just a loose cannon in all of this, but I remember our conversation back at the tavern, and some of you seemed really intent on assisting Beacon getting back on its feet, so I just wanted to hear your opinion on it all"
Taissa directs her sapphire eyes on Polux.
"We are newly arrived in Beacon. We signed on to aid the town. Then we become part of the Fate's plan as translated by Priest Vale and now we are to sail to Osirion? Priest Vale seems powerful enough to destroy the tainted artefact with the aid of the Orision priests. Are we then to provide him protection in the endeavour? What will the Lord Regent, Caius Lucius Titus, make of this venture, when he hears of it?" Taissa was never one for the laws of men but she had signed a legal writ promising she and Daya would not break the laws of Beacon and protect it, and she did not want to suffer the consequences if the Lord Regent deemed them law breakers. The cold clime never bothered Taissa all that much, being used to living on the land, no matter the season.
Hmmm...good points, why not both? Why can't we start with a parcel of land, just outside town, but near to the shore? then we can add a vessel to trade n'run ops up and down the coast? Think John would let the craft go for a song?Ren considers that option a bit as he helps guide Hack at the helm for a moment.
”It has possibilities, but it comes back to the central point – assuming you all wish to continue working together, what will you do?”
”What business shall you run to keep yourself employed? Will you be simple mercenaries, fishermen, shopkeepers?” he asks.
”For folk such as yourself I would see you one day having your own land – perhaps a small estate with your own protection and defenses to plan your ventures?”
”However – what, then, do you wish to do; if you continue to work together?” he asks, genuinely curious.
...
"It is still to early for me to make such decisions Ren- for the time being, I go where the flow of things take me, and it seems Osirion is the current destination - that will keep me busy for the next six weeks or so, and when we are on the trip back, I'll count my money and see what can be done with it" - he again looks across the waters - "I am not sure of being cut out to be a land owner, or a ship captain. A mercenary..? I don't know either. I expect Beacon will show me what it needs, and where I can be of use - I'll try to be there at the right time" - he shrugs.
** spoiler omitted **
Taissa directs her sapphire eyes on Polux.
"We are newly arrived in Beacon. We signed on to aid the town. Then we become part of the Fate's plan as translated by Priest Vale and now we are to sail to Osirion? Priest Vale seems powerful enough to destroy the tainted artefact with the aid of the Orision priests. Are we then to provide him protection in the endeavour? What will the Lord Regent, Caius Lucius Titus, make of this venture, when he hears of it?"
Turning to look at Taissa, the man cannot help but appreciate her stance in face of the current situation - "Those are some of my concerns also. We can always paint the picture however we want to Lord Titus, saying that the wealth we can obtain in Osirion, in a mere short six weeks, will prove extremely useful to boost Beacon's economy and trade - after all, one needs a place to spend the money earned" - he stands up and paces around for a moment, absent mindedly swinging his Earth breaker back and forth.
"But to ourselves it is not a question of painting a picture - no point in deceiving oneself - better face the facts, and that's that - if we stay in Beacon we can be of immediate assistance in various ways, as both John and Ren have already detailed; If we decide to leave for Osirion, we are away a month and a half, hopefully coming back richer from it, and after doing... Let us call it a good deed? This good does nothing for Beacon immediately, but the gold will, if at least some of us assume to settling down, establishing infrastructures, building commerce, offering permanent protection in strategic areas, whatever..."
He looks back at Taissa - "I think that is what lies on the scale at the moment - for me personally, the weight is the same, and neither path is best"
"First of all, I am interested in all of the ideas I have heard, with one caveat--a 'merc' can be hired to do evil work as well as good, which is precisely the reason I did not cast in my lot with the Bounty Hunters' Guild. Perhaps if we considered ourselves 'bounty hunters' or 'soldiers of fortune' who work only for those who have benign interests...then I will be wholeheartedly on board for the venture."
Ren glances at Geser and holds up his hands, as if to allay some of Geser’s thoughts.
”Now hold on – not all of the Bounty Hunter Guild are bad people. Many are much like yourselves; people looking for work with the ability to hire themselves out as soldiers to do odd jobs for coin.”
”But at first there was much competition. Some folk would try to bring in an enemy to justice and end up fighting citizens in the town for the chance to get the reward first.”
”Others would undercut each other on prices until there was almost no profit in it – considering the risk.”
”When Zergev founded the guild he made sure that the rates were fair. That once a contract was formally started that no other guild member would attempt to undercut it; and that the members would not fight each other over the chance to vie for bounties.”
”He standardized rates and coordinated efforts to make sure that our own folk would not kill each other just to be the one who brings back the scalp of an orc chief, or something like that.”
Ren thinks a moment.
”To be fair, Zergev has actually done quite a bit for the town. However, it is my opinion – as well as others – that his chief efforts are to profit himself. But the only way he can do that successfully is to profit the town as a whole.”
Ren’s eyes narrow.
”However, there are other issues he has… For example, if you yourself went after a bounty that one of his folk had already laid claim to it; or if you attempted to undercut his rates by going lower… then I suspect you may have – shall we say, an unfortunate “accident”?” he says glancing at you.
”But as for being evil? No, that is not wholly fair… He is calculating, determined to succeed to the point of ruthlessness, cunning, charismatic, intelligent and very ambitious.”
”I would not call him evil…” he says with a shake of his head.
”You see, to him, sending his men to… shall we say.. discourage any competition that would jeopardize the stability and order he’s established… He sees such discouragement as merely “business”; he has no personal issues with people who wish to earn honest coin, provided it does not compromise the business he runs.”
”Yet he worships no dark gods, he summons no demons… and ultimately I think it would be best to suggest he is merely an extremely ruthless businessman who seeks to have order and power,” he adds as if he is providing a detailed synopsis on the man.
”Of course, for all of that, Johnny hates him with a passion,” he adds, suddenly giving you a wry grin.
"I will offer my skill for scouting and tracking. But I will not be a mercenary, working for any with coin enough to buy my services. Like Geser, I prefer to stay clear of wicked motives."
Ren turns his usual hard glance to Taissa, and it softens almost at once for some reason.
He clears his throat a bit and nods at her assessment.
”Indeed – I agree with your motives and ideals,” he says sincerely.
”Yet there are many in the town who know the lands well, and many more who can offer these services to citizens. What would separate your company from the rest of them?” he adds.
”Please understand – I am not trying to dissuade you, but I merely wish to help you distinguish yourselves a bit from the rest.”
"It is still to early for me to make such decisions Ren- for the time being, I go where the flow of things take me, and it seems Osirion is the current destination - that will keep me busy for the next six weeks or so, and when we are on the trip back, I'll count my money and see what can be done with it...I am not sure of being cut out to be a land owner, or a ship captain. A mercenary..? I don't know either. I expect Beacon will show me what it needs, and where I can be of use - I'll try to be there at the right time"[
Ren glances to Polux and nods.
”Well spoken,” he says.
He muses for a moment.
”Thus far we see that you have at least two decent ranged fighters and trackers; both miss Taissa and the good mister Geser,” he says thinking aloud.
”We have also two men who are skilled in the ways of city life and are good with melee weapons besides. In this I see mister Stefan and you yourself, mister Polux.”
”You have also two other melee fighters who are good with the wilderness – in that I see mister Asan and mister… er, mister Hack.”
”Finally I see miss Suny; I am not certain of her skills as a warrior, but she is at least trained in the ways of the sea.”
”Given your collective knowledge of the wilderness, perhaps you could find work in joining with Shoanti folk on raids against orc clans? There are many and the rewards would be what loot you could find in their possession.”
”Or perhaps you would wish to utilize a bit more of the cosmopolitan skills that some of you possess and try to make some thrusts into Riddleport to discover their plans for the Spring, and how to thwart them?”
”There are many small islands and coves that often house smugglers and other scum – perhaps you would content yourself to finding them and bringing them to justice, keeping the spoils as personal profit?” he adds.
”To do much of that work you will need a ship, and unfortunately, you do not have one.”
He glances at the mast of this vessel with a sardonic gleam in his eye.
”This ship is poorly built for these seas. There is little room for weapons to assail other ships; there are no gun ports and her rigging is weak…”
He shrugs.
”I think that whatever plan you begin will be better if you have capital to invest jointly. Perhaps come together and purchase a ship? Or perhaps buy a small home inside the borders of the town to plan your operations and store your gear while you are on your quests?”
”Whatever it is you decide to do; be it on land or on sea – I think that working together will be better. Then you can take your coin and invest in something unique as a company to distinguish yourself from the rest of the folk in this town.”
”In point of fact, there are plenty of things in Beacon that will occupy you, of that I am sure. But having a company of folk you can trust is a good thing. If you come together jointly I think that would be best.”
"In all honesty I figure myself more of a 'feet on the ground' kind of guy" - Polux pipes in - "So the first option appeals more to me, without the estate and all that - don't think I am cut to be a land owner, at least not for the time being"
He then ponders for a moment - "But I am not one to simply shutdown new options, specially if they can prove to be profitable, and for that reason I think the Osirion trip would make the perfect test run - who knows? Maybe I will fall in love with the open seas, and never look back again. In any case, it deserves a try"
"I, like Polux, prefer my feet on land. I don't need estates and political power. But having a parcel of land for our own headquarters, where we can live in peace, sounds good. I don't mind some exploration by sea, if there is need, but I don't want to live or spend extended periods on the sea."
Ren turns his usual hard glance to Taissa, and it softens almost at once for some reason.
He clears his throat a bit and nods at her assessment.
”Indeed – I agree with your motives and ideals,” he says sincerely.
”Yet there are many in the town who know the lands well, and many more who can offer these services to citizens. What would separate your company from the rest of them?” he adds.
”Please understand – I am not trying to dissuade you, but I merely wish to help you distinguish yourselves a bit from the rest.”
Taissa wonders at Ren's quicksilver change in glance but does not speak of it at the present time. She notes to ask him later, when they are alone.
"I don't know these people that stand here. Not yet. So I can't say what makes us different or better. I hope given some time and experience, I will have an answer, Ren. I understand what you are saying, however, and will give it some thought." Taissa gives a brisk nod at Ren.
Ren glances aloft and checks the wind, watching Taissa and Hack work.
”Well done, lass,” he says encouragingly at her skill manning the helm.
It wasn't often that she was praised for her work and she never expected it, if truth be told. Taissa had been on her own from 15 and then with Daya predominantly. That Ren was being encouraging was an unusual boon but sort of nice too and Taissa stumbled in her reply,
"You and Captain John are fine teachers. I hope to learn more." She gave Ren a small smile and then continued on with her work.
Ren continues to watch Hack and at the wheel as Taissa moves toward him to talk.
He steps back a bit quickly from her, clearly giving her a bit more space on the quarterdeck.
Ren’s nervous about something, but you’re not sure what it could be.
Also, Daya sees that in the north a storm is brewing. The sky is dark, but it looks like a long way off. Still, there could be snow coming.
With that info Taissa can attempt a Survival Check to predict the weather.
Via your comments about his teaching: Ren nods his head, clearly pleased that his methods are working.
He then seems to marshal himself a bit and assume a more “scholarly” attitude, as if to better live up to your praise. But he does add –
”I do not offer open flattery, miss Taissa. Your handling of the wheel just now was very good,” he says sincerely, giving you a friendly smile of encouragement.
As he listens to the group’s comments about estates and land, he eventually grins a bit, shaking his head.
”Well, the true difficulty is that – in time – you will likely need a place to sleep, and store what basic gear you collect so that it is readily available for you. You cannot simply carry everything with you; or, if you could, you have no reason to desire wealth beyond the next day’s wages,” he says, his attitude taking a more logical tact.
”If you are merely working from day to day then yes – an estate is hardly for you.”
”If you are planning on doing more than simply earning your daily bread you will likely need a place to house your goods and perhaps a warm place to sleep when you’re not exploring the world.”
”There is little land in the town proper for new homes. As you no doubt noticed, on the eastern side of the town outside the walls there are already houses constructed flush against them simply so they will be close by to the garrison and safety from raiders who come from the northlands – and the inevitable problems that will no doubt come from Riddleport.”
”If you purchase a place inside the town and then leave it unattended for days at a time, who is to say it will not be burgled? Or what if the town itself is attacked?”
”Meanwhile, if you build such a place outside the town – perhaps a few miles away for some privacy, it will certainly be attacked at some point as it is simply an empty building filled with items that may at least attract the greedy and curious.”
He glances aloft and checks the rigging again, frowns, then adjusts a rope, then continues.
”If you do not wish it to be attacked it would be good to have at least a stout door and perhaps a small wall around the property. Of course, if you are all on adventures, it might be good to have a lad manning the door or standing watch; someone who could take care of things for you in the town, to make sure when you come home things will be comfortable and that your gear is not stolen.”
”If you are successful you may gain more gear and wealth. In which case one lad may not be enough to protect it from increasingly greedy folk who are more eager to get a taste of all of this wealth, though."
"Indeed, you may need a few lads to guard such things – and if you have a few on the property, it’s possible that they may need their own place to sleep. In which case you may need a slightly larger house, with slightly better defenses… and so it goes,” he says with a dry smile.
”Now – as for this business about helping Beacon? Surely you know that our greatest threat hails from Riddleport? They have already taken this town once before, it was only through the efforts of the City States to the south that Beacon was made free and able to blossom.”
”But I would think that when the Spring comes and the ice and snow recede, then they will be back.”
”If you wish to halt threats to Beacon, I would think that the greatest threat as of now are a few orc raiders from the north and goblin raiders from the south. But when the Spring comes, I have a hunch that our true issue will be pirates in these waters… Likely from Riddleport, though it is possible they may come from other places as well,” he adds thoughtfully.
He than glances at you all with a neutral expression.
”If you would protect Beacon from threats; well, I would think that having a ship might help in that plan,” he says, then looks to the rigging again with a frown.
”But as an old mentor of mine used to say… I like to think there are always… possibilities…,” he says with a friendly glance back at you all as he adjusts the lines again.
Ren continues to watch Hack at the wheel as Taissa moves toward him to talk.
He steps back a bit quickly from her, clearly giving her a bit more space on the quarterdeck.
Ren nods his head, clearly pleased that his methods are working.
He then seems to marshal himself a bit and assume a more “scholarly” attitude, as if to better live up to your praise. But he does add –
”I do not offer open flattery, miss Taissa. Your handling of the wheel just now was very good,” he says sincerely, giving you a friendly smile of encouragement.
Taissa notes the space Ren made for her on the quarterdeck. He didn't seem to want to draw too close to her.
"If I believed it was mere flattery, Ren, I wouldn't be showing my gratitude. I am glad to hear that I am fulfilling my duties aboard the ship. Gaining new skills is advantageous." She wanted to make him feel more comfortable around her for he seemed strange lately. She was unsure as to the reason why and wondered if it was better not to ask. People were entitled to their own thoughts. She wanted to change the subject, so Taissa casually enquired, "Why did Captain John name his vessel The Seahawk?"
Hearing Ren discuss the various sources of threats to Beacon, she asks him, "So the greatest threat to Beacon comes by sea? Pirates? How many generally? How many times do they attack?" She wished the Lord Regent had been more forthcoming with this kind of information. Least they had Ren to advise them now. Taissa and her travelling companions would need to learn quickly about ships and how to outrun or defeat pirates.
Also, Daya sees that in the north a storm is brewing. The sky is dark, but it looks like a long way off. Still, there could be snow coming.
With that info Taissa can attempt a Survival Check to predict the weather.
Taissa watched overhead as Daya circled and then landed on deck, screeching swiftly, relaying what she had discovered from her vantage in the sky.
Taissa turned to the north, inspecting the dark, thickening clouds in the far distance. She notes the direction of the wind and the choppiness of the ocean waves attempting to gauge the weather on their journey to Beacon.
Once people are settled, cleaned, fed etc Suny will take the opportunity to approach Layla/Amun-ta Menhai. Bouncing forwards, she presents a hand held outwards to wards the other girl/woman.
"Okeys then!" Suny exclaims with her usual bright smile, "I can see we's got off ta' completely th'a wrong foots>" So saying she waits for Layla to accept the invitation to shake hands.
Suny's grin brightens even more and she takes Layla's hand in both of hers to pump said up and down vigorously, continuing the conversation,
Suny waits...and looks from her hand to Lalya...and glances from her hand to Layla...and waits some more...before eventually lifting her own hand to look at it before scratching her blond mop of hair and continuing,
"Okeys...Me name be 'Suny' in'a speakin' of tha' peoples an' fine I am ta' be meetin' ye." She proceeds to flop forwards in a fluid, almost head touching deck, bow.
"Now..I un'erstand ye bein' all rilled up an' upset an' such over whut them's fellers done t' ye an' yours an' these other lasses." Suny frowns as she thinks of the trials and hardships the poor women have undergone.
"So...other than sayin' agin that tha' speakin' in'a manner of tha' peoples in't rilly somat I be right good at, I'd be more'n happy ta' be allyin' yer fears about m'self." And Suny grins, "I mean, I in't sure whut ye be hearin' of Elfs? But I be right happy ta' speak t'ye about 'em an' helpin' yer understandin'." (^_^)
Seeing your proffered hand she looks at you, and the hand, with a little suspicion and confusion. But, given your extremely diplomatic approach, she gradually reaches out to take your hand and holds it in some confusion, clearly not familiar with the custom of “Shaking Hands”, but at least trying to make a go of it.
She looks at you thoughtfully for a moment.
”There are few elves in Osirion,” she says slowly.
”The elven folk roam the deserts, mostly, it is said. The folk in the cities name thy cousins in the east “Dune Runners” for it is a truth they are adapted like many of thy people to various terrains. They are taller than your kind – standing nearly seven feet in height, and lean. Their hair is black and their skin is akin to my own color, not fair like yours.”
She frowns a little.
”Their bodies are adapted to live in the desert and they can run with great speed, however – a Dune Runner can run for a day and night, it is said, and their folk can run nearly forty miles in that time; an advantage when one has no cavalry to carry you and your tribe is nomadic, moving from water source to water source.”
”The few that we have seen – the “half-elves” – they are generally slaves in the city; for they are counted unique and their adaptability gives them a way of being with other folk that allows them to learn to blend in well; better than nearly any other species I have seen.”
”They despise outsiders generally, unless thou art a member of their tribe; and they steal without any thought of consequence. If thou should meet a Dune Runner and are not part of their tribe, be warned – they will take any of thy gear with great skill and no fear of reprisal. They do not consider theft of those beyond their tribe a crime… and if one tries to bring a thief to justice their tribe will cause much trouble for the offended party.”
She looks at you keenly.
”You have an odd way of speaking; yet you show more courtesy. It is good; I am well-pleased,” she says with a friendly nod of her head.
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As Ren and Taissa talk about things, he notices that she seemed curious to broach a different subject.
Why did Captain John name his vessel The Seahawk?"
Ren shrugs a little.
”It is hard to say; I think he did it honor his mother. The bird was her favorite or all the birds. There was something about a creature that flies – the absolute freedom it has; coupled with the fierceness and spirit of a hawk, and of course – one that is aligned to the sea couples both of those qualities together; the freedom the sea provides, the freedom that flying provides and an inherent fierceness and commitment to fight to survive.”
”Those are likely the reasons he chose the name, but he may have others. Johnny is generally fairly easy-going, but sometimes he keeps things more private than people might guess,” he adds thoughtfully.
As Ren watches Hack and Taissa work, she considers his words on piracy.
"So the greatest threat to Beacon comes by sea? Pirates? How many generally? How many times do they attack?"
He thinks about it a moment before responding.
”Well, that is a complicated set of questions. The short answer is that Beacon was not always called “Beacon”; it was first called “Roderic’s Cove”, as you may know.”
”There was a minor colony, it began to flourish because the terrain is relatively flat and easy to cultivate for crops - when you start heading north of the town and wetlands. Also, it is well situated by the sea and a good point to launch ships to ferry goods between the City States which surround it.”
”Folk from Riddleport took it over a few years ago and made it a den of thieves, as it were. But more disturbing to the City States to the south, the eventual criminal bosses who ran Roderic’s Cove were employed by superiors from Riddleport.”
”It was clear Riddleport wanted to expand south; it was clear that they were extended their reach and that Roderic’s Cove – if properly enforced – would be a good jumping off point to launch a better invasion to the next target.”
He shrugs.
”So the City States invaded Roderic’s Cove and took it back. You can still see the architecture of the old town near the south side; the inn The Floating Log was initially the home of the former master of the town, so I heard.”
”They tried it once before when Roderic’s cove was a mere village with a few interesting buildings to claim and were successful.”
”Beacon now has a proper harbor with towers and cannon to defend it. Also, it has a fortified keep and armories and warehouses with food. It is far superior than it was, but not enough to defend against a more serious invasion. So if they attacked again in massive force, they might take it over. But as it stands? If they took it over formally with more men and more supplies, given it’s current condition as a growing town from a mere village I believe it would be far more difficult to get them out a second time.”
”In any case, we know enough at least to know that in the past year there is more troubles from the North. Irrissen is sending out forays into northern Varisia; the orc tribes are attacking as Shoanti tribes are expanding and food and resources are growing more scarce.”
”They may attack again this Spring, or perhaps next year… the more people in these areas the more they’ll need resources, and there is a limited supply on arable land with all the mountains around. Further, the more successful Beacon grows the more enviable it will be.”
”The orc raids will likely be against the Shoanti tribes – for they stand between us and the orcs. We have recently made arrangements with some of their tribes to trade foodstuffs for protection and support against the orcs. In reality, this is almost a bribe – in my opinion – as it encourages the Shoanti to not want to attack us for food, but leave us in peace to grow in strength.”
”But with the folk from Riddleport, such deals cannot be made in good faith. The Shoanti generally have a code or some type of honor – but with the pirates from Riddleport, they may take the money you offer in bribe and then decide to kill you anyway. They have no central government, merely a loose confederation of ship captains who act as crime bosses; controlling their crews as if they were small companys of soldiers. You may be able to make a deal with one of them, but all of them? No – it is too risky. But as to when they may attack specifically? As of now, no one knows – but we do suspect them to be the greatest threat in the long run, if not that this year, then perhaps another; it is only a matter of time.”
Well, it sounds like everyone needs to decide as a group. I'm thinkin' it makes sense to have some base of operations for our group no matter the form.
As the ships move forward, Suny, Taissa and Hack do what they can to aid in the speed with their efforts to help sail.
Meanwhile, as they consider options, Hack offers his opinions.
Well, it sounds like everyone needs to decide as a group. I'm thinkin' it makes sense to have some base of operations for our group no matter the form.
Ren glances at him and nods.
”Aye! I suspect it will be easier to decide what form of headquarters you wish once you achieve the wealth at the end of this voyage. Who knows? You may have more money than you expect,” he says with a hint of optimism.
As a chill wind blows over the sea, his eyes narrow as he hears the timbers creak in yardarms above.
”Or perhaps less….” he mutters, watching the ship.
At the talk of 'establishing' Suny's face takes on a 'mue' of concentration.
"Well...if we stay in town...We can leave tha' ship at wharf and pay ta' have her look-ied after fer a while out'a whut ever t'is we make off'n whut we've found. Then, we can wander about an' settle in, as it were. As fer the trip to warmer waters? Seems we has ta do that any way ta' get tha' moneys fer said ship." Suny shrugs.
"Rilly, tha' ship sellin' be somat we can bide time on. She'll sit at anchor fer a while with no worries. Heck, careen her on'a beach an' just leave her there fer a season. Thence, we dun't have ta' scrape her none when we's ready ta' sail." Suny adds absently, her attention returning to Elliana and what ever it is the pair are doing while the conversation is resolving.
Stefan spends much of the first day catching up on sleep (fought at night and then stood watch until next morning). The next morning he wanders about the ship gauging the mood and interests of the rest, not offering any opinions.
It seems they all more or less desire the same situation that I do. The question is which path? Osirion is a good ways off, but it seems little will happen during the winter here. Perhaps we can afford such a foray. I will wait to see what direction the others lean towards first.
Geser lets the others talk; their hearts seem to be in the right place, and that's what's important. They'll come to the best decision between them. He decides to pitch in at least one shift of sailing work, to continue to sharpen his lackluster skills, and in the meantime, he vows to keep a surreptitious eye on the priest.
Looking to Ren and then the others, Taissa shares her observations,
"Snow's coming. In about 4 days. We need to be wary of heavy frost on the sails and a slippery deck due to ice. Hopefully we will reach Beacon by then, but if it takes a day longer, we must be careful."
You have returned to Beacon. A day later than you had initially planned, but sooner then you expected, due largely to your combined efforts to sail.
Both ships are in the harbor – only the military frigate is in the bay, and despite the early hour you see no one on the streets, but you do notice there is a lone sentry on the tower under the covered awning looking toward the harbor.
Both ships are moored in port, and John has left Uraga on The Seahawk and Khal on the other ship. The now freed slaves have been given their promised coin and Ella is escorting them to a place that John thinks they will be able to start a better life for themselves.
He, Ren and priest Blackroot are heading to meet with some folk and try to make some deals and get some information about what they found while Amun-ta will come with you all to wherever it is that you wish to go. For now, the young elf child is going with Suny, though if she will continue to travel with all of you depends largely on the group.
Meanwhile John has advanced you each 250 gold pieces from your cut of the loot, enough to purchase any personal items here or enjoy yourself. He lets you know that it will take him some time to get the goods purchased and stored, but wants to sail the next day at noon once things are underway.
Asan politely excuses himself from the others to walk about town. Breathing in the cold air, he contemplates the next move. Am I still on the path?
Eventually, he will look for a dark place to meditate on the decision ahead.
Giggling brightly, Suny quickly bends down and begins to scoop up more of the white stuff. (^_^)
Unfazed by the extreme miss with the snowball, Asan sighs and offers the elf a weak smile and a nod, but continues on his walk.
After Ella has dropped off the girls she moves back to her companions.
She notices that Stefan, Hack, Polux, Taissa and Geser are still contemplating options while Asan is going for a walk through the snow-covered streets and Suny is unable to hide very well for snow ball fights because the adolescent elf who is following her doesn't seem to be very stealthy at this point.
Kit stares at them all with very wide eyes and tries to stalk around, but unfortunately sinks in the snow, so he turns to hop on Ella's shoulder and she promptly cuddles him in her cloak.
Ella looks at you all with surprise.
"Whoa! Ya'll know that Johnny gave you your cut to buy what goods you think are best here. And you do realize that ya'll are going to be conning that poxing, whore-bellied excuse for southern ship 'till we sell it?" she adds.
"Meantime, you got mister Vic that needs his loot for your rooms and you ain't seen him yet to pay him and you've been here for at least an hour - and mister Vic? He don't like folk that welch on deals, by the way - in fact, this whole town don't like new folk who don't pay their debts much, either."
"Further, ya'll been crying over the hash you found on account of supposed curses and yet none of ya'll wants to learn more about it? Also, Ren said that some of you folk are looking to know about what them basterds from Riddleport may got up their sleeves come Springtime and no one thinks to ask no one for news?"
She shakes her head.
"Alright, alright - don't mind me, just a bit confused on ya'll's tactics, I guess."
Then she points a finger at you guys.
"Just saying, though - if ya'll are on the seas and your ship cracks a spar - any of you lot got at least a hammer to fix it? And if you're looking for handy supplies in case you get into a tango from here to there on account of the fact that you ain't got healing... well, you plan on getting some soon? Gods' blood!" she mutters to herself as Kit peeks out of his spot by her shoulder to give you all a stern look.
At this point the young elf girl turns to Suny. Clearly she is not as bothered by the cold as the others were and cocks her head, looking at Suny curiously.
"Mistress, you said we are to be friends... But I am hungry... it is near lunchtime, can we please get some food?" she asks you with a soft voice.
As they approach the harbour, Polux stares at the town of Beacon lost in his own thoughts - it seemed like some sort of miniature playing thing - all covered in snow and dotted by spots of light here and there, smoke coming out of its chimneys.
Jumping ashore, he comments to the others - "It feels good to have my feet back on dryland, I'll have to admit - I am going back to Vick's - want to pick up my tab there, and have a drink. You all staying here?"
As he walks towards the Floating Inn, he takes the opportunity to buy himself a cold weather outfit, planning on returning the loan as soon as he meets back with the Seahawk crew.
With other things to purchase in mind, he decides to leave it for later in the day - after lunch perhaps - and heads out to the inn.
He enters the familiar, spacious common area, feeling comforted by the warmth coming from the fireplace, which he had expected would be burning as the last time he was here. Warming his hands momentarily without a word, Polux then heads to the masssive bar, expecting to find Vick there - "Well met again Vick" - he greets - "What is on the menu today?" - he asks, cracking up the faintest of grins.
The tavern is filled full – apparently the snow has caused most of the folk who look for a meal to come here as it’s one of the largest buildings and is extremely warm and well-supplied.
Also, given the fact that the cheap houses outside the wall aren’t very sturdy, you see a lot of folk who look less wealthy and garbed somewhat more poorly. You suspect that they come from the poor homes, though it is a bit surprising that, given the cold weather, they aren't as prepared for snow.
Perhaps something else is going on?
"Well met again Vick" - he greets - "What is on the menu today?" - he asks, cracking up the faintest of grins.
Looking up from his spot behind the bar Vic can barely hear you, but waves you over.
”Afternoon, young master,” he cries out over the din.
”We got soup and bread on the menu today – lots and lots of bloody soup,” he says with friendly voice as he moves over to you and looks you up and down.
”My lads said that they saw two ships come in and your folk was on both of them?” he says with a bright smile.
”That’s some good work, my lad! It looks like fate smiles on you indeed! Hell, it demands a drink – on the house!” he adds as he steers you over to a somewhat cramped space by the bar.
”Sorry about naught but soup – but you can take a whole venison steak and greens for one lad and make enough soup with that, some water and spices, to feed up nearly four, and – as you can see – we’re hopping!” he adds with excitement.
”We also had that issue with the ogres two nights ago – don’t got tell you – that was some ugly business, yes indeed sir!” he continues as one of his girls brings you a hot cup of steaming coffee, sweetened with a bit of molasses.
”I still got your rooms above, though I got to say – if you hadn’t come back today, I’d have to auction off your gear and make space to them that needs a place to sleep… nothing personal, but with the snow and all folks come to here and a few other places just to get food and some warmth,” he adds.
”Guess it’s a good thing your crew was able to sail home as soon as they did,” he says with a wink at you.
In moments a bowl of hot soup is placed before you with a hunk of black bread.
He looks at you a bit expectantly then shrugs.
”I can collect for your rooms and meals in a bit – but I got to admit – the sooner I get the coin the better; I got to send out a lad for more supplies and things have been tight with snow and all,” he adds.
”Are you paying for your friends, too – or will they be putting up their coin?” he asks you.
”Whoop! I got to go – sorry, lad – it’s damn busy in here now!” he adds and hurries off leaving you with your cup and rushing away.
Hack walks with Polux back to Vick's.
At this point the young elf girl turns to Suny. Clearly she is not as bothered by the cold as the others were and cocks her head, looking at Suny curiously.
"Mistress, you said we are to be friends... But I am hungry... it is near lunchtime, can we please get some food?" she asks you with a soft voice.
Suny happily drops her handful of snow and hugs her friend. Reassuring Elliana and, arm in arm, wanders off to seek out some 'vittles'...While chattering away happily about al sorts of things.
(^_^)
As you enter the inn you notice that Polux is immediately brought to the bar and has a rather brief but interesting conversation with Vic. You suspect he may have spoken to you as well, but given the fact that the place is packed, he barely has a chance to talk to anyone unless they can ask him a question.
You can barely find a place to sit down, though there are a few places to stand around low shelves to rest a drink on.
As you feel the warmth and energy of the place you notice that the general conversation seems to be about the recent attack a few days ago by ogres.
Perhaps it has the good results that Poluxed inspired with Vic, but after a moment a girl comes over and brings you all mugs of steaming coffee sweetened with molasses and a tot of mead for Hack.
Elliana takes a drink of the coffee. She doesn't know how to act with it, but tries to put on a bold face with the flavor.
As the ebb and flow of people around you move about you, Elliana turns to Suny and looks at her.
”The gnome said that your company would be conning the ship to Osirion, mistress – who among you will pilot the vessel?” she asks you curiously, obviously not really concerned about the ogres as she is about the sea.
"Also, this drink is very... good. But I am still hungry," she says to you again.
Suny does her best to get the pair of them at least a space in which to have a meal of what ever is on offer. Suny also does her best to being getting Ellianna used to at least a more 'casual' tone..As in 'Suny' and not 'Mistress'...
Hack takes a good pull on the mead, and licks his lips.
Aye, good stuff, there. I am a fair sailor, but certainly would not be bettin' on me to get us all the way to the south.
Stefan will see if there is a good haberdasher in town and then make his way back to Vick's to settle accounts and meet with the others for a final decision.
He will also chat people up for info on possible needed crew for hire (specifically, navigator and healer).
He will also chat people up for info on possible needed crew for hire (specifically, navigator and healer) = Gather Information total: 16
You discover two different types of haberdasher shops in town.
The first is a sort of “generic” clothing store. Inside it you find that the shopkeeper sells cloaks, coats, hats, belts, bags, sacks, boots, moccasins and some other various gear that goes with them – specifically some repair tools, gardening tools, and that sort of thing.
The owner is a human from Cheliax. His name is Nemo Sartorius and he seems like a good fellow, decent, but a bit gruff.
The second shop you enter is – perhaps – more of your style.
The owner is a gnome, fairly old with spectacles perched on his somewhat bulbous nose. He hails from Absalom originally, though he has traveled quite a bit. His name is Grahm Abarnathy.
His store has few clothes in it. Instead, he has bolts of cloth and a few books of patterns and styles.
He seems to have fewer customers, but those who visit pay a higher price.
During your search you end up running into Ren and John; they had made a stop at one of the shops you were frequenting while looking for a tailor and they hear that you’re concerned that you won’t have a skipper, or a healer.
Ren glances at John who informs you that normally he’d be happy to have Ren continue to con your vessel for you; but the way things are now, he’ll need all of his crew to move his ship at full speed, and that will likely include the girl Amun-ta.
John also informs you that he needs Ren on his ship because your vessel has no guns or any weapons to defend itself from an enemy ship. If an enemy ship attacks you, he’ll need everyone he can get on his ship to act as an escort.
However, you do raise a good point about both a healer and a pilot.
He considers the issue for a moment –
”I know a few folk around town; if you want, I can maybe track someone down who’s reliable to give you a hand on the ship – at least until we reach Osirion.”
He rubs his chin thoughtfully.
”It may cost a bit, though… what are you interested in more at this point – a good healer, or a good pilot? Say the word and I’ll do what I can to find one for you, I just don’t think you’ll be able to afford both for such a long journey,” he says lighting a cheroot casually and drawing in the smoke.
”Or at least – it will certainly effect your profit margin,” he says with a little grin.
”So – as you asked – just let me know your preference: pilot of healer? Like I said, I know a few folk… say the word and I’ll find someone who’s handy.”
Ren glances at Stefan thoughtfully for a moment.
”Do not fear – we have learned your disposition well. I should think that any who Johnny might find will certainly be more… amicable… than some that you have traveled with,” he adds sensing any concerns you may have for shady or outright antagonistic types giving you a friendly nod.
Elliana looks from Suny to Hack and watches him drink the mead.
"Sailing is easy if you do not care where you go."
"Finding a place on the maps is not easy, though. It takes lots of learning for that, even if you can read the stars," she says a bit shyly to the big man.
She looks back at Suny.
”I heard about ogres, too. They are foul creatures – but it seems that they were all killed for attacking here.”
She chews her lip a bit.
”Can I please have some food now?” she says again to Suny.
Geser heads over to the inn to cover his tab, and then leaves immediately to see if he can locate Asan. If anyone in the group will be able to understand his thoughts, it's the other seemingly spiritual person.
Geser, during your voyage from the island to Beacon the priest has been on The Seahawk. Your company was on the other ship, with the exception of Ren.
During your journey the priest has the captain’s log and he, Vale, and the girl Amun-ta have been trying to crack the code and get as much information from it as possible.
As to the details on the idol, Asan got a large amount of information about it from his studies, but he has not formally shared it with the company at this time.
For now, I’m going to assume that you are easily able to find Asan as he’s not that far from the inn and tracking a person in the snow should be fairly easy, especially considering your abilities. That said – if you have any direct questions for him about the idol, toss ‘em up!
Vick comes over to you and listens to your questions; brief as they are – and gives you a quick response through his work.
”Oh yeah! We got hit by the ogres three nights ago. They came in the night when the snows hit us… came against those houses on the outside of the wall at night in the snow… killed two lads, wounded fourteen… four houses destroyed completely and seven were damaged bad… they’re being fixed now, but it’s hard in this winter… We killed ‘em, though… Four adult males… Sent a team to track where they came from as soon as the morning came… Team’s been gone these past two days… Twenty outriders left… Six bounty-hunters left to find news, too…”
”Hoping they find something soon… Odd for four males to be striking the place… They like to ambush not raid strong places… Could be desperate for food… we’ll find out more soon… lot of folks moved from the huts outside to inside the wall… got extra guards on the walls, too…”
Geser approaches Asan wherever he finds him, hopefully in a more secluded area.
"Friend Asan, I would like to speak when you have a moment. In a very short time, I have realized that we work with a worthy group--but you, above all the others, strike me as the one most like myself. You seek spiritual and moral truth, and you seem to take it quite seriously. I have misgivings about our new...ally? The one called Blackroot. Do you trust him? Do you feel it is wise for him to have possession of that dark idol we discovered?"
Although not the most refined of speakers, upon making landfall Taissa attempts to locate an apothecary and obtain some healing medicines and tonics at a reasonable price. The last battle saw many of her allies fall in injury, and, with no dedicated healer in the group, powders and tonics were necessary if they were to survive in Osirion.
She asks Daya to wait by the door.
"Good day. I am in need of healing medicines and tonics. What kind do you have in your store?"