Seeing her animal companions fully healed gladdens Taissa's heart. Anger still resided in her heart at the memory of the bounty hunters targeting and attacking her beloved, animal friends. By the Spirits, I swear one day you shall suffer for your villany, Taissa silently muses and promises to the memory of the two fleeing hunters.
With approving smile on her face, Taissa addresses Zayna, "Priestess, you healed my animal companions and for that I am grateful. How much do I owe you for the healing?"
"Nothing. Call it a gift in hopes of our future friendship," Zayna says in reply to Taissa. She smiles back in a friendly manner. Turning to Hack she asks the injured warrior, "Hack, how are you feeling, any better?"
Taissa inclined her head at the boon. "I accept the gift."
Hearing Zayna's question to Hack, Taissa waited upon his answer. He had proven to be a trusted and loyal ally and she would not see him suffer needlessly. "Aye, I would see you hale, my friend", Taissa added, with a lopsided grin, to the large and tall barbarian.
Wondering what Polux was planning to do with the goblin that just received some healing, Taissa suggested to those present in the galley, "Let's head back up. There are still things we must discuss. And I wonder if the crew of The Seahawk have begun returning to their ship. It would be good to talk to Ren and Captain John, as well."
But before she started to climb the stairs, she turned to the goblin and added, "I do not know what your fate is. The Captain of this ship will decide whether to free you or not. What is your name?"
Melthune descends the ladder with every one else. She looks to those with the knowledge of how things are done to explain the arcane methods of 'Berths' and 'Stowing' and such.
The Goblin's presence elicits only a raised eyebrow from Melthune. Though she does reply with thanks to Zauna for her power expended with healing.
She returns to the main deck and calmly awaits the discussion there.
Aye, Zayna, thank you for the prayers. I feel better, but not completely hale.
Hack keeps scratching his beard, and he fills his pipes as he continues to look over the plans and schematics that he and Tai have been consulting for future work on the ship.
While examining things, he turns back to Zayna.
I cannot be sure, but I would think that if you join us for the long hall, you will be given the same charter we all have from our Lord in Beacon. We are heading South, but we will return to Beacon afterwords. This is a chance to gain coin, sailing, and combat experience while the winter holds things quiet in Beacon.
Tai, do we have any authority to sign others onto the charter from Beacon?
"I believe that only the Regent's aide, Casius Decimus, can formally do that. Once Zayna and Melthune sign his papers, then they will be recognised as formal citizens of Beacon, while retaining rights to their homelands. They may claim their free month's board at the barracks until they find suitable housing. If they can provide proof to the Regent and his men that they have successfully defeated Beacon's enemies, then they will be entitled to rank and title within the borders of Beacon, the same as we were offered."
Looking from Zayna to Melthune then back to Hack.
"I suppose we do have the authority to enlist help along the way. That's a start until we return to Beacon."
"Headed south? Where are you going?" Zayna asks, quite curious as to what she is getting into.
Osirion, at least that is what we were told. I do not think we will make it, and the repairs that we need to do will take some time. It may be best that we head back to Beacon? After all, if Zayna and Melthune are really interested in joinin', then we need to get them properly signed on, no?
1. The goblin cannot answer you formally, as Polux gagged it. So it can’t give its name or speak to you at this time, unless you decide to un-gag it.
2. Technically it’s only been a few minutes since you got to the ship “in-game”. I was planning on having things fast-forward after we heard from everyone, and that includes Stefan and Polux.
I don’t know when that will be, though, so – for now – I can fast forward things a bit until later tonight when Ren, Vale and Ella return from their meals.
If you recall they planned on sleeping on the ship because why bother paying for berth’s ashore when you have a perfectly good bunk on the ship?
However, folks like Uraga, Khal, Johnny and Kristin normally like to enjoy themselves a bit more. They won’t be back until much later in the evening – possibly midnight to 2:00 AM or something like that.
I have to leave for work in a little while, unfortunately, but I woke up a bit earlier so I’d have time to put something up from the gang.
Mel, Polux, Stefan
I’m going to fast-forward things a bit so I can post up some feedback from the others when they arrive. Please ret-con anything you’d like to say before they arrive (including thoughts and ideas as well as what you’re planning on doing with the goblin).
"I would be far more amenable to that than traveling all the way to Osirion in this ship as it is now. Is there not work to be had in Beacon? Like I said before, I would be willing to lend my own money to fix the ship enough to get back to Beacon, then if we could earn some more money we could finish fixing the ship and possibly head to Osirion in the spring?"
"What's in Osirion?" Zayna asks, curious why they would go so far.
After everyone has talked you eventually see a trio of folk moving up to a nearby ship.
Though it is after dark, there is some dim moonlight as well as lanterns set up by the docks which provide some light for sailors and guards to see better with.
Of the trio you can see that two of them look almost like children, but you realize that one of them is the robed Halfling priest Vale Blackroot, and the ship’s gunner; Ella Twofer, a gnome. The third individual is a taller fellow. You suspect that this is the half-elf nicknamed “Ren”. He is wearing a long heavy cloak but you know from what the others have said that he is carrying a pistol and a rapier at his side.
Hailing your company he breaks off from the group and moves to the gangplank and asks permission to come aboard, which is easily granted at this time.
Moving up he nods to his friends and takes a moment to consider the two newcomers thoughtfully.
”Well met, then. I am the First Officer of The Seahawk,” he says politely as he bows somewhat formally before the two ladies.
”It is a pleasure to meet you,” he adds politely.
He glances around the ship for a moment.
”I understand you have thoughts on what to do next,” he says.
”Your pardon, but I have not yet eaten. The priest wished to prepare us supper. As he is an excellent chef I agreed, but I wouldn’t mind for a small drink to banish some of this evening’s chill,” he adds.
”Is it possible that we may head below to talk for a bit?” he adds.
Following the others below, he seems surprised to see the goblin bound and gagged. He turns to you all.
”Should we discuss options openly in front of this one?” he says to you.
Surgeon's Tools 20 gold
Masterwork Silver Kukri 328
Alchemical Crafting Materials 200gold
Ship's fund
Remaining 59 gold
Seeing the two women on the dock seeking permission to board, Taissa gives it. Bringing them before Polux, she introduces the women to him and the other crew they have not met. [/b]
Polux offers his greetings to the two new arrivals - "Welcome aboard. I am Polux. Good to have you join our crew. The Scorpion is defintely needing to be manned... Or wommaned. I am in the process of assigning roles on board - tell me, what skills can you offer aboard a ship?" - he questions.
"Ren is right. We have no weapons and the ship's coin is low. It is good we will get The Scorpion seaworthy, again. But if she is chased, we have no way to defend ourselves except to try to outrun and we are slower than other ships. I would like to change the sails and rigging, to help with the speed, yet we do not presently have the coin."
Polux nods - "You are right of course Taissa. Though... Well, it seems like ages ago but if I remember correctly we signed up for this with an offer from Vale and his crew. It is my understanding that we are still working under such agreement, with the expectation of gaining something out of it all, and also in some cases, expecting to do the right thing like preventing people from being sacrificed to some ages old God, which would bring about an hecatombe of sorts" - he shakes his head, then tries to to imitate Vale - "Dark things be a comin', ya know buoy?"
Looking at the Seahawk docked nearby, he adds - "That being said, and if they still want us to tag along, I would find it perfectly reasonable that The Seahawk slows down his sailing to offer protection to the Scorpion - after all, we are protecting an asset which we had agreed to either sell on arrival at Osirion, returning to Beacon aboard the Seahawk; or simply sail it back ourselves if it is deemed worthy. If the Seahawk crew agrees to this, we should be safe enough. Besides... Without danger, things would be kinda bland, would they not?"
"Who is Ren?" Zayna asks. "You didn't tell me your ship was heavily damaged back at the inn. If I join you, where will we be sailing? I was planning on heading towards Beacon, like I mentioned before. Have you thought about hiring more crew? There are barely enough people here to keep a ship like this going..." Zayna looks a little underwhelmed by the damaged, amateur crewed ship. "I have quite a bit of money. I might be willing to invest in getting this ship to the point where it's actually worth using. At a minimum though, I'd need a contract guaranteeing that I'd be repaid fully from any future proceeds before any loot discovered is divided amongst the crew."
Polux frowns - "This is a team - I have been appointed Captain regarding only what pertains the Scorpion, so the decisions on what to do are taken as a team. Regarding your offer, I would politely decline - I don't really feel like indebting myself to someone I do not know. Take no offense, it is simply an opinion. From where I stand, either we can do this, and agree to the level of risk - depending on Vale and John's input on my idea before of having them escorting us, or we don't do it at all, sell this one and take it from there. One option could be that we all move aboard the Seahawk - after all, that was the initial plan"
Zayna raises one eyebrow at the goblin. "What's that thing doing here?"
Moving along with the crew down below, Polux notes down their reaction to the imprisoned Snaga, turns to the goblin and approaches him - "I have not forgotten about you" - the man states calmly - "You will have our decision soon enough, but rest assured you will not be executed"
When there is the possibility of addressing the crew priately, without Snaga overhearing, Polux approaches the subject quite bluntly - "I had a long talk with the goblin down below, and after also sharing some impressions with Taissa regarding goblin mentality and attitude, I would like to propose having him join the crew for the time being - I like his attitude, and he seems smarter than most goblins - yep, that is a two edged blade but we DO need more crew, and this one would do it for free, at least for now, if we spared him his life. I'm thinking he could be given minor assignments until he has proven himself" - he looks at the group with a smile - "The critter's name is Snaga, and I would like to give him a shot"
”Should we discuss options openly in front of this one?”...
Polux, er...Captain, our real agreement is with Beacon. We really have no obligation to Ren or The Seahawk. Our only obligation is to protect beacon. That is what I signed on for. This was a chance to adventure during the winter months, but this ship is simply not ready.
Polux smiles at Hack - "Brother, don't call me captain - you know my name. And we already had an agreement with Beacon before leaving - granted, we head out with the intent of checking out the island and preventing some sort of ritual, with the understanding that doing so would benefit Beacon, correct? - he questions.
"It seems we have uncovered more than we expected - 'more will be coming' - I believe those were the words from the half-orc? I guess it means some hassle may be heading towards Beacon, maybe even Korvosa. And I remember we concluding that winter, in spite of the border attacks, was actually a 'slower' time, in what concerns Beacon - wasn't that why we took to the sea in the first place? Why not make the best of the winter time left, and investigate this thoroughly?"
Shrugging, Polux adds - " I am no patriot, you know that - it just strikes me like the best thing we could do with at least some of our winter time, based on our earlier decisions, and what we have uncovered. I'm not the boss though, we take it wherever you boys and girls want to"
Ren nods at Snaga’s appearance thoughtfully, as if considering things a bit.
He says little, merely content to listen to all the talk, trying to gauge reactions and opinions from everyone.
After hearing everyone he waits for the chance to speak, then offers his opinions.
”First, let me clarify a few things for you all, in case there was any confusion.”
”As of now we found a few dark relics of ancient evil on an expedition. During that expedition several of you were contracted to work with us to help us get to our destination and fight when we arrived. You did this, and did an excellent job,” he says.
”During that mission the enemy ship was captured and we have spent time trying to decode its log, a laborious process, I assure you. From what we have discovered so far it seems like the majority of the gear and equipment usually found on such ships was missing on purpose.”
”The captain of that vessel used sorcery to navigate. This demonstrated his power far more aptly than science would, but we believe it is a sure sign of paranoia which is connected to followers of such dark gods. In other words, we feel he distrusted even his own crew, and that was another reason he kept such weapons from them. If you cannot navigate your ship, you are as good as dead in the water, and of course, if you have no tools to navigate with; well, to mutiny against the captain would be foolish, for even a victory would leave the winners unable to plot a course to safety.”
He pauses a moment to sip some brandy, then continues.
”At this time we had intended to sail to Osirion for several reasons – the first is to get rid of the artifacts. We had hoped that priests dedicated to a righteous cause could destroy them properly. If we failed to destroy them properly – say, if we threw them into the sea – it is possible that they may be found again, or that their very existence in the waves could call forth trouble.”
”Priests that are opposed to this dark cult would be very pleased to destroy these weapons – pleased enough that we believed that they would pay us good coin; part of that coin you could keep, as you would have helped us achieve this goal.”
He glances around, considering The Scorpion.
”The ship we are on currently is not made for northern waters. It does poorly here; we had hoped to sell it outright when we reached Osirion; however, none of our crew had realized that your own people would be so hard pressed getting it to Osirion; but this is because she is of a class of ship we are not familiar with.”
He looks at you all thoughtfully.
”There are other alternatives, of course,” he says.
”One such alternative is to sell the ship here and use the coin as you see it. You could travel with us to Osirion – a land of exotic cultures and very schooled in ancient rituals and magic; where priests are like nobles and they posses a great deal of power in their mysterious rituals, so it is said…”
”Another option is to sell the ship again and invest that coin in a new possibility.”
He gestures to the schematics.
”There are few ships in the sea that can match The Seahawk for speed; this is because she is a new class of ship from Andoran.”
”When we arrive at Osirion we could send word to family in Andoran and leave commission work for another similar class of ship to be built. If we laid keel a week after reaching Osirion you could have a ship like ours in roughly four to five months from today.”
He studies them thoughtfully.
”That is an investment, of course, because to have such a ship would mean that you could pilot needing only a minimum crew of four, and to sail her well a crew of eight; very reasonable for a small group.”
”When the spring and summer comes the Corsairs from Riddleport will likely sail south hard and harass the shipping between their City State and Beacon. Having a vessel like The Seahawk at your disposal would help you quite a bit, if you wished to stop them from attacking you on the sea.”
He leans back, taking another taste of the brandy.
”Of course, this leaves you to the needs of paying for the rest of the ship, and what you will do between now and then.”
He glances at Snaga, then back to Polux, studying him.
”You were cautioned against raiding south of Beacon during the winter. The concern was that – while there are many goblin dens – most of them would either be empty, or they would be a collection of tribes that banned together in the winter for warmth and protection.”
”If you were to travel overland from here to Beacon after investing the money for selling this ship now into a new vessel, and if you had someone who was... smarter than most goblins, yet knew the locations of many goblin dens from experience; dens that now housed tribes that were enemy to his own, then you might be able to find quite a bit of reward between here and Beacon, if you had a trustworthy guide and new where to look for such places... that is, if you returned on foot.”
He glances at the others, realizing that they just invested quite a bit of coin in improving the ship and holds up his hand to forestall any concern.
”Don’t worry overmuch about an investment in this ship so far… If you do decide to sell her now, I promise you that any potential buyer will see the ship which is fully stocked and ready as a boon. I am not sure, but I believe that we can potentially regain any investment you put into the ship; and increase that investment by quite a bit if you decide to sell her now as she is fully stocked.”
He glances at Polux at this point.
”If you are indeed resolved to go Osirion directly; you could still sell the ship now, transport your goods to our own; then we’d all move together as one and get to Osirion with greater speed. From there, you’d claim your cut of wealth from the priests who reward us for destroying the relics, and you’d also be in a better position to find more – unique gear of a supernatural bent…”
”I should say that selling the ship here will earn you less coin than it would in Osirion; this is true. But on the other hand, it would be safer and faster if you chose to do that. I know some of you laugh in the face of danger, but when it comes to returning to Beacon with speed – that may, perhaps, be the best course the deal.”
”Or you could sail her to Beacon. But if you did, you’d have a poorly made ship that would rest in its harbor with little chance of reselling it there. Further, it would prevent you from scouting the lands on foot between here and Beacon, if you do return to your new home.”
He considers the potential goblin dens and discovering what is really in them on their return trip home.
”I suspect that such an adventure would likely be worth something to certain people in Beacon… assuming, of course, you can trust this one,” he says glancing at Snaga.
Then his mind tacks back to the chance of them simply buying a corvette class ship outright.
”Ultimately if you decide to get your own ship in time I would recommend one such as ours. As I said, they are very rare at this time; and they are very handy for a small company, such as yourselves, that is more interested in getting from one point to another quickly so that you could enjoy what adventures you seek on new shores without needing roughly twenty sailors under your employ just to see that she stays afloat…”
”Of course, that is only my opinion,” he says politely, letting you all consider things again.
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Meanwhile, as Ren talks at length, White Fang has been rushing all over the place getting people to throw him the ball and seems to have finally tired himself out.
Dropping the ball by Taissa he insists on being picked up and held while he sleeps.
The image looks something like this (Taissa, remember, White Fang is still very small, hence his size in the picture).
Eärendil “Ren” Tuor is a thin, lean individual. A half-elf basterd, and orphan as well, he grew up on the streets until he befriended a boy named John Dodger. John was younger then him physically, but they were both the same sort of adolescent in mental age (given the aging between human and half-elf). John brought Ren home and encouraged his mother to formally adopt him into his house and help take care of him.
John’s mother is a priestess and is a bit formal and believes in good education.
To honor her kindness Ren studied quite a bit. He’s bookish and far more serious then John is, though they are like brothers.
Ren’s an excellent shot with a pistol, but prefers melee weapons; being very good with a rapier. He’s quieter, more thoughtful and studious than John is, but he’s very protective of his friends and those he considers family.
He has long black hair which he keeps swept back and has the standard blue-gray eyes common for many elven seafarers.
His rough appearance can be found Here.
Vale Blackroot was taken as a very young boy from Cheliax and sold as a slave to thugs in Rahadoum for sport to be used in the arena. Instead, he managed to escape and went south to the Mwangi Expanse. There he was found by a tribe and semi-adopted by the Mwangi shaman.
The shaman taught Vale quite a bit about magic, sorcery, superstition, the gods and many ancient things. He is more learned in some ways than many priests are when it comes to poisons and potions and dark rituals.
He spent nearly 33 of his 50 years in the Mwangi nations, having been taken there at the tender age of 15 (young for a Halfling) and having spent the last two years with Johnny and Ren.
He’s very unusual; his accent thick and laced with Mwangi dialect. He wears his long hair in dark dreadlocks and his small totems and charms woven into his locks.
He is very temperamental and somewhat dangerous and has occasional fits when he sees visions. Despite his odd quirks he is ruthlessly loyal to his comrades and has no qualms in killing anyone who would hurt his friends. He journey’s with Johnny because Vale claims to see a strange destiny on him.
Less bones, more beads, though, but just as cheerful and pleasant looking. A rough sketch of him can be found Here.
Ella is a gnome who loves to experiment with weapons – specifically black powder. She is skilled with making bombs, guns, and alchemical weapons in general. She loves to tinker with things and is generally a free spirit who enjoys fun, but is happy to help out on the ship.
She acts as if the others are kind of like her “older brothers” and feels like part of the family. In general she’s always coming up with new and interesting inventions. She loves animals and fun, but is still fairly young for a gnome, and often left with the job of "Guarding the Ship" when things get a bit too rough.
A rough sketch of her can be found Here.
Taissa had listened quietly as Ren discussed the merits of the various options regarding the quest and the ship.
"If we do sell The Scorpion here in Korvosa, fully stocked as she is now, and take the coin, do you suggest we all come aboard The Seahawk and travel to Osirion with your lot to finish this business with the artefacts?"
Seeing the tired pup, Taissa picks White Fang up and nestles him back inside the sling/pouch to sleep.
"What's in Osirion?" Zayna asks, curious why they would go so far.
"There are priests there that can help Vale Blackroot destroy an evil statue. These artefacts were used in a dark ritual, involving blood sacrifices performed by evil priests, which our group and Captain John's thwarted, on a island a few days out from Beacon. it seems to be part of much grander, darker plan, and Priest Vale believes it is important enough to warrant destroying. Vale receives visions from the Fates, as he calls them. The Fates led him to us and since then our paths have been connected."
"If we do sell The Scorpion here in Korvosa, fully stocked as she is now, and take the coin, do you suggest we all come aboard The Seahawk and travel to Osirion with your lot to finish this business with the artefacts?"
Ren gives Taissa a rather shy look and clears his throat.
"I cannot say one way or the other - both have certain advantages..."
"One would take your company over the land; moving through wild country and finding dark places where goblins make their homes... Such places would likely have less wealth, perhaps, but it would get you to Beacon sooner with the potential of a reward from delivering the news to the lords of Beacon; I cannot say what such a reward might be; perhaps merely gratitude, but at the least your reputation would go up very much if you did destroy a few such dens near Beacon when others had not been successful..."
"Of course, if you continued to sail to Osirion you will likely find more coin for your pockets and more... unusual items, once you get there."
"You could purchase a new class of ship then, or other rare or unique items... but I would think that lands of Osirion would be very different. But you would get there much faster if you traveled on our ship and we sailed there together," he adds, then takes another taste of the brandy.
"The choice will have to be your own, but in either case, for your earlier efforts you can count on our friendship in the future," he says, his eyes drifting to White Fang and he smiles at the pooped pup as Taissa puts him back in her sling.
Taissa wasn't certain she wanted to go from goblin den to goblin den killing the creatures. She had no qualms with travelling over the wild lands, however, as that was normal for her.
Turning to look at Polux, "If you mean to finish this dark business, then I have no issue with selling the ship here and travelling with the crew of The Seahawk to Osirion. We could always commission a better, faster ship once the deed is done and return to Beacon to make reports and man its borders."
Melthune stands silently, listening intently as the conversation moves around the cabin/room/space.
When there is a lul she looks to Ren thence to Polux. Standing at ease she adds her piece.
"So...this ship is an asset for which there is lacking offence, defence and even basic manning levels?" Her comment seeming more rhetoric and a way to marshal her own thoughts.
"My thought. Sell this. Use the money as suggested to start the construction of this new vessel. One, which by the sound of it, will be more trustworthy as you'll know all of its history." Her gaze drifts as she speaks. Focusing on her thoughts,
"Consolidate the crew on the other ship. More bodies to aid in the work, defence and attacking with it. Maximise everything there. Make it the strong point." She nods to herself.
"This will put us in a stronger position to sail where is needed."
I would rather sell it and travel overland to Beacon, cleaning out goblins on the way. We could even use the money to build or buy something on land for our group. When The Seahawk returns, we could hire it out to help us with the pirates. Do we really need to go to Osirion?
It was easier being on her own with her animals. She then only had to worry about the needs of her small pack, as leader.
Taissa wondered what the other silent members of their party were thinking. She looked to Polux and did not envy him his captaincy.
"It seems we must put the decision to vote. Will all accept the decision of the majority? Who is by ship for Osirion? And who is by land for Beacon? Let's have a say and then be done with it."
Melthune purses her lips at Taissa's comment.
"I think there are more factors than just two options. We need to list them all, the better to parse them into manageable tasks."
Taissa glared at the armoured newcomer, opting to say naught to Melthune. If the woman wanted to waste time making lists, then it was her own time she would waste.
Taissa carefully moved over to the stove (with the sleeping pup in her sling) and stirred the pot of stew she had slowly cooking there. She was hungry, if the others weren't.
Melthune doesn't notice Taissa's glance in her direction. The armored woman waits to hear further comments and discussion.
Stefan interrupts the process to interject what he has found out.
"Before we so readily give up on proceeding to Osrion, I think I have some information that might help decide things. I have been told that this evil is persistent and seeks new places for their blood sacrifices. I was also informed that we should seek in the high places of Osirion for those that battle this ancient evil and that they may be able to aid us. The other worry I have is the focus of these people on the ancient ruins of Thassilon. Perhaps they know of something that will greatly aid their cause that exists somewhere in Varisia. If so, then we should bend every effort to thwart them as that would be a direct threat to Beacon. I fear that a resurgence of the Serpent worshipers power would lead to much devastation in our realm."
Melthune nods, acknowledgeing Stefan's words.
"So....Proceeding to the lands of Osirion is important. We should then consolidate crew aboard one ship to maximise our force. Increasing our ability to get there." She states.
Putting the wooden spoon down and facing the group once more, Taissa listened to Stefan's acquired information.
"The source from whom you've obtained this information, do you believe they are speaking the truth, Stefan?" They seemed to have stumbled on a much larger, darker quest than she first imagined. But was it really up to them to solve it? Did Vale know more than he was saying?
"So your vote would be to go to Osirion, Stefan?" She asks, trying to figure out what Stefan wants to do.
While she waited for Stefan or one of the others who had not voiced their choice to do so, Taissa drew nearer to Ren (who stood silently to the side observing them all) and had a quiet word with him.
"If you are hungry, you are welcome to sup with us. The stew may not be how Vale makes it, but it's still good."
They hadn't really spoken to one another since last eve and she was a little hesitant/shy around him.
"You all know my vote on this" - Polux adds again - "I say Osirion"
Then turning to Melthune and Zayna, he continues - "Again, take no offense but... I am not considering your vote for this one. Your opinion is most welcome however" - he finishes.
Stefan interrupts the process to interject what he has found out.
"Before we so readily give up on proceeding to Osrion, I think I have some information that might help decide things. I have been told that this evil is persistent and seeks new places for their blood sacrifices. I was also informed that we should seek in the high places of Osirion for those that battle this ancient evil and that they may be able to aid us. The other worry I have is the focus of these people on the ancient ruins of Thassilon. Perhaps they know of something that will greatly aid their cause that exists somewhere in Varisia. If so, then we should bend every effort to thwart them as that would be a direct threat to Beacon. I fear that a resurgence of the Serpent worshipers power would lead to much devastation in our realm."
"Apologies Stefan but, 'you were told'? 'You were informed'? May I ask where you got the information?"
"I really have no desire to return to Garund, Osirion least of all. If I am going to join your group I will certainly have a vote. There are evil cults and monsters in every corner of the world, trying to chase them down and stop them all is a fool's errand. I agree with Hack that we should go overland to Beacon and raid some goblin tribes along the way."
"If you are hungry, you are welcome to sup with us. The stew may not be how Vale would make it, but it's still good."
He looks up at Taissa.
"Thank you, but for now I am content with the company I think. Besides, if I ate a meal prepared by another, I'm not sure how the priest would take it," he says with a little grin.
Ren takes another drink of the brandy and glances around.
"I must admit; moving through the swamps in winter would be more pleasant than summer, but when you reach a den filled with goblins I suspect it would be a bit difficult to deal with."
He thinks for a moment, considering such things.
"Moving through cramped tunnels that might have murder-holes for them to drop boiling oil on you, shoot arrows at you, or dump poisoned vermin on you that will assail you with disease and rot is a common tactic, I believe..."
"Then, once you are trapped in the narrow confines and feel the bite of the vermin crawling over you and biting into your flesh and infecting you with disease - whether you survive or not does not matter as they will typically light the oil on fire..." he adds with a sigh and a shake of his head.
"The goblins you fought before were in the open fields - easy to deal with as you were able to fire ranged weapons at them from a distance as your allies moved in to swarm them."
"But in their tunnels - when they are also trying to protect their young - I suspect they would be a bit more...challenging," he adds thoughtfully.
Then he shakes himself out of his musings and glances at Stefan, listing intently to his words about the enemies who would be coming to Varisia and seek to rouse dark powers.
His gray eyes grow concerned at this idea.
"If what your companion says is true about these things then we must consider the implications... Part of the log we deciphered suggested one of the things that these foul cultists will attempt is try to raise the dead; to use them as soldiers in their foul practices."
"Such things would be a grave threat..." he adds.
He looks at you all, his eyes glancing around almost nervously.
"The start of this year, the first day; the moon was black - the priest said it was a dark omen; that we entered the year in darkness, without the light... that dark things were coming for us."
He wets his lips.
"In less than four months on Gozran the 14th there will be something called a "Blood Moon"... these are rare things and often are further omens of darkness... There will be another blood moon six months from the one in Gozran..." he says glancing around.
"Entering the year in darkness and two blood moons arising... it is disturbing to the priest, and others..."
"There are lost cities beneath the waves; if a priest wished to summon forces of Undead to rise to fight for them, what better army could there be then the dead that lay beneath the sea? And an undead army of folk who were drowned by the gods themselves for following this "Serpent" abomination... if they rose again..." he does not finish his sentence.
"Soon the springtime shall come and the snows will have melted; the Shoanti will come down from the highlands to raid the plainsmen... the goblins will stab north from the southern swamps to sack the cities and villages that we inhabit and the trolls and giants will roam into the realms of men to bring death.... And then, when we are beset on all sides by those troubles then the Blood Moon shall rise and the cultists will use their cursed sacrifices to call forth the dead from dark places beneath the waves..."
He glances at you all.
"Unless folk stand together as one and combat these things," he adds.
"I really have no desire to return to Garund, Osirion least of all. If I am going to join your group I will certainly have a vote. There are evil cults and monsters in every corner of the world, trying to chase them down and stop them all is a fool's errand. I agree with Hack that we should go overland to Beacon and raid some goblin tribes along the way."
"I think you are looking at it the other way around" - Polux retorts - "After we have made our decision, you can decide whether to join us or not" - his tone is matter of fact - "As I said, I don't really know you, but I will listen to your opinion. The final decision is not yours to make however"
Taissa nodded her head as Ren declined the invitation. "I would not see you incur Vale's wrath."
Stepping back, closer to the stove, she grabed a cotton cloth and removed the pot - the stew was cooked and ready for supper.
She listened as Ren told of the cunning goblins and the blood moons and darkness. Her thoughts warred silently in her mind, trying to determine the best course for her and the animals. The Spirits played a part in this, she was certain. Guiding her here and waiting for her choose: to accept or decline the path. The choice suddenly became clear.
Looking Polux and then Ren in the eyes, she simply stated, "I would stand as one and fight. My vote is for Osirion."
Melthune watches and listens to the conversation. To Polux's declaration/demacation to Zayna, Melthune shows no reaction,
"The die seems to be cast for Osirin. The next question. One boat or two?" She states.
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"There are evil cults and monsters in every corner of the world, trying to chase them down and stop them all is a fool's errand."
Ren glances at Zayna.
"Perhaps you're right," he says thoughtfully.
"It is possible that I am making too much of this, of course."
"But I thought it was worth mentioning, especially as one of your own folk had heard similar rumors."
"Still, I suppose our own folk could go to Osirion on our own and return with what news we have for you, if that is your wish?" he says.
"But I would recommend that working together word be better for all of you, rather than working alone, no matter what it is your company decides on," he adds.
Upon Melthune's question, the decision wasn't a hard one. They simply did not have enough coin to improve the ship regarding sails or weapons, or, people to run the ship at full crew.
"Out of necessity and practicality, my answer is one ship. My vote is to sell The Scorpion and sail aboard The Seahawk as a united force." Once the words were spoken, Taissa hazarded a look at Polux, being familiar with his personal issues with Vale. She wondered how Polux would feel about travelling on the same vessel as the strange priest for an extended period of time.
"I believe in Polux as captain, and, one day we will have a better, faster ship of our own that he can command."
Thinking of another question to ask of Ren, "If we do sail with you, are we then deemed to be under the sole command of Captain John? Or are we still independent and able to make decisions of our own? I mean no disrespect to Captain John, but we are already tethered to the Regent and we have our own orders and such. I would not disrespect your Captain for I like him thus far. But I would know where we stand on this matter."
Melthune shrugs. "One ship...One Captain." She says succinctly.
"My question, in regards to myself. Will I be fighting and defending the ship? Or will I be learning the ways of sailing?" She folds her armored arms.
"I've been honing my skills as a fighter for a good amount of time. However, should the Captain insist, require crew and not 'Marines'...?" Melthune leaves her question open and hanging.
"If we do sail with you, are we then deemed to be under the sole command of Captain John? Or are we still independent and able to make decisions of our own? I mean no disrespect to Captain John, but we are already tethered to the Regent and we have our own orders and such. I would not disrespect your Captain for I like him thus far. But I would know where we stand on the matter."
Ren sips his brandy again and glances at Taissa.
"Captain Dodger does not seek to put himself over others," he says glancing at the group as a whole.
"However, when it comes to matters of seamanship, I'd venture that on any ship there can only be one captain, at least, that's what Johnny would say," he adds with a shrug.
He glances at you.
"I think that on the ship you would be likely considered as passengers, in all matters other than seamanship."
"So long as you do do what you can to help us and do not hinder our efforts I do not foresee any issues."
He smiles a little.
"I have known Johnny to be many things, but I have never known him to lord his position over anyone. Indeed, he has always been fair with everyone - he splits all findings equally with folk, not keeping his due as captain or showing favoritism... he was even generous with the slaves that we liberated, granting them perhaps more coin than some of your own company thought was reasonable, if I recall correctly..."
"But I would not worry overmuch regarding such things," he says with nod.
"I am sure if you decide to sail with our company our folk will do all that they can to work well together with you as a crew."
After Ren answered her question and she was content in the answer,
Taissa ladled a bowl of the stew for herself and then placed the pot in the centre of the wooden galley table. She set the newly purchased wooden bowls and utensils by the pot (of fragrant beef, onion and potato stew) for those who would eat to serve themselves. There was fresh water in a clay jug, mugs, ale and wine for those who would partake.
She quietly excused herself and walked up the stairs to the top deck with a ration of beef she had pulled out for Daya.
Taissa would feed White Fang when he woke. She let the tired puppy sleep for now.
She looked across the lit deck and over the shadowed dock and water, hoping to spy anything out of the ordinary.
In her observance, she had a quiet word with Daya, "Anything out there we should be worried about?"
"I've been honing my skills as a fighter for a good amount of time. However, should the Captain insist, require crew and not 'Marines'...?" Melthune leaves her question open and hanging.
Ren turns to Melthune.
"A valid question."
"In truth, to sail our ship requires only a good crew of eight sailors. This we have... your company will improve those odds greatly."
"I would think that there would be little for you to do while sailing; still, there are many possible threats between here and Osirion - if you do intend to travel that way."
"It is likely that at some point we may be attacked. If so, we can outrun most rather than fight."
"But if we do run into trouble we may have need a warrior who is able to repel boarders or - if the need warrants - move to the enemy ship and destroy them."
He glances at Hack.
"Do not fear overmuch - I suspect that there will be little combat on the seas; we are not a Man o' War or a Battleship - but it is a possibility..."
"You were bred in the highlands and meant to fight in such hard country; these high-seas adventures do not tempt you overmuch - but I would not worry too much about them... After all, blood is blood, no matter where you spill it. Soon you will have returned to your home with weapons of steel and power to take battle to your enemies on the field and so earn honor and renown."
He grins a little.
"The sea is merely one path your company shall tread 'ere their journey is done; yet it is not the only path," he adds, trying to relieve the warrior in front of him.
In her observance, she had a quiet word with Daya, "Anything out there we should be worried about?"
Daya sees nothing untoward.
However, Taissa is free to make a Sense Motive check -
Hunch: This use of the skill involves making a gut assessment of the social situation. You can get the feeling from another's behavior that something is wrong, such as when you're talking to an impostor. Alternatively, you can get the feeling that someone is trustworthy.
More to come after you make your roll...