DM Immortal's Blood Red Roses: A Skull & Shackles Campaign

Game Master imimrtl

It's up to you as the Pilot to make the call as you won't have time to really confer with anyone before the decision needs to be made.

Amen-set says nothing as she continues to cast her spell, but her eyes flick to Rain as the ship cleaves the whitecaps and pushes forward.

She recalled clearly hearing that normally the Captain-General has command of the ship, but the Pilot-Major has the ultimate authority in matters of sailing while at the helm, especially if the ship might be in danger...

Still, despite the massive size of the creature and the dangers it presented, she felt nothing but a sense of calm, except for the growing exhilaration that came only from the sense of excitement from the race itself.

After all, her senet had the helm and Amen-set was completely confident in Rain's skill and talent!

Once were within the 100 ft, or start turning away, Dhaavan looses his spell and summons 1d3 + 1 ⇒ (3) + 1 = 4 small water elemental via SM 3, and orders them to go and rescue the human survivors.

They appear 45 feet out, should get to a survivor in 1 round, and next round can pull them away, round 3 return and repeat.

hopefully they can save a few and get them far enough for the turtle to find a better target, like a ship...

GM: After your last post about the steam and screams, do we know if there are still any survivors in the waters? Can we see any evidence that they're alive, or have they all been pretty much killed (at least, from what we can see)?

I ask because I'm eager to help the survivors, but I thought they were all dead; launching both of our boats to help the survivors means we'd be without boats for the rest of the race and it also means we could draw more unwanted attention from the turtle (assuming that Horatio's shot with the cannon didn't already kill it, because - here's hoping).

However, given what you said earlier about the crew of that ship (basically, they're "good people", not to mention they're sailors who need help) I'd do what I could to help them like Dhaavan is, but before we know for sure what's up, I'm kind of hoping to know their status, if possible.

If they're living Amen-set will Summon One type of thing - if they're dead, she'll Summon something else...

Do you need a Perception Check for that, or do we already know what's up?

Horatio watches the cannon ball smash into the shell of the giant creature and he grins viciously, then turns to Rajah.

"Oye, padre - you any good with guns?" he asks, even as his flick back to stare hard at the creature before them.

Rajah, if you shoot the Cannon you suffer a -4 for using Black Powder Weapons untrained, but they still resolve against a Touch Attack in the first Range Increment; so if we get to 100 feet of the Turtle, you'll be at a -4, but you'll only need to hit it's Touch Attack... And the Cannon currently has a Divine Enchantment on it, basically making it a Magical +1 Weapon for purposes of hitting/damaging and overcoming DR (if this thing has DR).

Then he waits to hear Rajah's response...

There are still definitely survivors but probably no more than 10 or 12 after the release of steam.

Rain, you have a decision to make, you can see an opening where you can slip past the dragon turtle without having to fight it and get through the pass to continue the race. This will allow you to leave the turtle to attack any other ships coming through, like the Wormwood, which would give you a definite advantage in the race but would also mean that if there are any survivors from the capsized ship they will definitely die. It's up to you as the Pilot to make the call as you won't have time to really confer with anyone before the decision needs to be made.

Risk your ship and crew for the capsized crew or take the opening and trust your piloting skills to bypass the danger?

She knew the consequence of either choice. The Captain of the Sullied Strumpet and her crew were good sailing folk and she could not in good conscience leave the remaining sailors in the water to die. She would trust in her sailing skill to make up speed if the Lady lost her lead.

She did not take the opening, instead keeping the ship steady and calling out, "Save as many as you can and fast! Keep your eye on the giant turtle and do what you can to stop or kill it. Amen call upon an air elemental if you can to lift any of the Sullied's crew from the water and the steam."

Prof Sailor to keep ship steady and ready to move fast out of way of turtle once the sailors are rescued: 1d20 + 23 ⇒ (16) + 23 = 39

If there are only 10 sailors still alive then one longboat should suffice, correct? I believe they fit 8-10 people? That way we have one remaining longboat and don't forget Rain's tricorne turns into a cutter/jig/jolly boat for 8 hours, once a day, for an additional boat, if we have need for one during this regatta.

Horatio watches the cannon ball smash into the shell of the giant creature and he grins viciously, then turns to Rajah.

"Oye, padre - you any good with guns?" he asks, even as his flick back to stare hard at the creature before them.

Rajah, if you shoot the Cannon you suffer a -4 for using Black Powder Weapons untrained, but they still resolve against a Touch Attack in the first Range Increment; so if we get to 100 feet of the Turtle, you'll be at a -4, but you'll only need to hit it's Touch Attack... And the Cannon currently has a Divine Enchantment on it, basically making it a Magical +1 Weapon for purposes of hitting/damaging and overcoming DR (if this thing has DR).

Then he waits to hear Rajah's response...

Rajah smiles and shrugs, "I've never used one, my good man! But I'll surely give it a go!" he says excitedly. "Honestly, I can do no worse than my last shot, you know," he says as a matter of fact, giving a wink and a grin. He then quickly moves to aid in readying the cannon instead.

Ready to fire when able.

She did not take the opening, instead keeping the ship steady and calling out, "Save as many as you can and fast! Keep your eye on the giant turtle and do what you can to stop or kill it. Amen call upon an air elemental if you can to lift any of the Sullied's crew from the water and the steam."

While she agrees completely with Rain’s sentiment, she gives a glance at Horatio to confirm and he nods in a brisk assent.

She then summons an Air Elemental to aid in the rescue of the men…

As she begins to direct the location of Air Elemental, Horatio speaks to Rajah and then hears his response –

Rajah smiles and shrugs, "I've never used one, my good man! But I'll surely give it a go!" he says excitedly. "Honestly, I can do no worse than my last shot, you know," he says as a matter of fact, giving a wink and a grin. He then quickly moves to aid in readying the cannon instead.

Horatio grins in response and then claps Rajah on his shoulder and he turns to the gun crew –

”Help him with it, if you can,” he says, then strides toward Amen-set and raises his arm and she slings the musket over her shoulder and tosses it into his open hand, even as the Air Elemental begins to materialize...

He catches it deftly and bounds up to the foredeck and readies the weapon to take aim on the Turtle…

As he steadies it he glances back over his shoulder for a moment.

”If anyone else is going to cast – now’s the time,” he says, then turns to study the threat before him.

Horatio will take a shot with the musket as soon as he’s in range to shoot; not sure of our current position in relation to the threat, though…

Just as you pull to about 100 feet away the various elementals begin trying to get to the sailors. They are swimming in every direction in a panic, just trying to get away from the monstrous turtle creature.

The dragon turtle breaches the waves and snaps up a screaming sailor and you can see that this turtle is even larger and more vicious than the tales you have heard of about these awesome beasts. It is easily 40' across and about the same length. It's shell is a deep bluish black while it's scaly head, tail, and legs are a deep reddish green. You spot features that make you think that this creature might have some fiendish blood to it as well.

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Round 1

Current Map

You guys are up, you are 100 feet away from the Dragon Turtle.

You guys are up, you are 100 feet away from the Dragon Turtle.

GM - looks like we're more than 100 feet away, but my count may be wrong. If you say we're 100 feet, Horatio will snap on his Rage and take a shot with the musket leaving Amen-set to direct her elementals, as well as Rajah to take his shot with the Enchanted Cannon -

Horatio's uses a Full Standard Action to Aim his Shot with the Musket (Including Bless and Archaeologist's Luck, Deadly Aim and Range Increment of 3 (as it's a 40 Foot Range Increment or -4 to hit) for the following -

Attack on Turtle -
1d20 + 6 + 5 + 2 + 1 + 1 - 2 - 4 ⇒ (17) + 6 + 5 + 2 + 1 + 1 - 2 - 4 = 26

If it hits -
1d12 + 6 + 2 ⇒ (7) + 6 + 2 = 15

EDIT: GM - if the Turtle has a Touch AC of 26 or less, then that hits and does 15 and with the cannon that's a total of 42 Damage...

Amen-set calls to the Air Elelementals to aid the sailors, but then she begins to cast again.

Meanwhile, Adular's spell drops a bolt of lightning on the Turtle.

Also, luckily, there has been some rough winds that Rain's been sailing through - and that rough wind just means that the lightning bolts do more damage...

Adular Uses "Call Lightning" on Turtle for Round 1 (7 Rounds to go) -
3d10 ⇒ (9, 6, 4) = 19

EDIT: I believe that has now done a total of 61 Damage now, hopefully...

EDIT: Horatio - since you used all your Grit, then the only way you can hit the Turtle via a Touch Attack is if your Musket has a "Far Reaching Sight" which allows you to resolve a Two-Handed Firearm against Touch Attack so long as you use a Standard Action...

Oh but wait, you have a "Far Reaching Sight" on the musket, which is why you always lend it to me! In which case I'm sure you hit the Turtle's Touch AC... Well done :)

As the bolts begin to fall, Adular begins to cast a different spell to aid for next round.

Amen-set turns her wide eyes on the others and calls out to them with a fierce but proud voice -

"The beast is scorched, yet methinks it yet lives... Spare not thy talents and rather, sunder its life from it with all haste, else we all shall taste its wrath!"

Taking aim as they near the large beast, "Here goes nothing." Rajah fires the mighty gun, hoping to fare better than last time.

Cannon: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (20) + 4 = 24 BOOM! That's awesome.
Damage: 6d6 ⇒ (3, 6, 2, 4, 3, 6) = 24

(Crit confirm)Cannon: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 4 = 8 But THAT is not nearly as awesome. Ah well.
Damage(Just for grins): 18d6 ⇒ (3, 3, 6, 5, 6, 3, 3, 2, 3, 2, 5, 4, 5, 6, 2, 4, 5, 3) = 70

As the shot flies true, striking the dragon turtle quite solidly, "Fantastic!" he exclaims, raising a fist in the air. "Try chewing on THAT you bloody beast! Yes!"

As the shot flies true, striking the dragon turtle quite solidly, "Fantastic!" he exclaims, raising a fist in the air. "Try chewing on THAT you bloody beast! Yes!"

Horatio turns a shocked and surprised look at Rajah -

"That's a bloody amazing shot, lad," he calls out with real enthusiasm.

Rajah - from what I can tell, your BAB is 6 - you have a +2 from Dexterity for +8 at Ranged Weapons, with a -4 because you're non-proficient in cannon.

The enemy is 100 feet away, which means you suffer no penalty for range, and since it's in the first range increment it resolves against Touch Attack (all black powder weapons resolve against a Touch Attack in the First Range increment) which means you'll hit a Touch Attack of 8 to confirm.

But wait - that's not true!

See, Adular had cast Bless earlier on at the start of the Combat a few rounds back; that means you'd have a +1 to confirm your hit, so your confirmation roll would be a 9, not an 8.

But wait - Amen-set also cast the spell on the cannon "Magic Siege Engine" - which not only grants a +1 to Damage and Magical Damage, but it also grants a +1 to hit - meaning you'd confirm on a Touch Attack of 10, not 8.

Given that the weapon is considered magical, that should mean you'd do a total of 98 damage against a Touch Attack on a 10 vs. an AC of 10.

All things considered, Horatio is going to be buying you quite a few drinks after that shot, that's for sure :)

NICE SHOT!!! Normally that would still miss due to the creature having cover from being submerged in water, however it's too good of an opportunity to let pass... Mythic Surge added to confirmation roll: 1d6 ⇒ 1

Rajah, you feel time slow a bit as you touch the flame to the powder, seeing the minute explosions, a sparking chain reaction that promises death at the other end. A surge of energy pours through you, almost as if you could feel fate itself twisting in your favor.

The powder ignites and the cannon spits forth its metal sending it straight towards the dragon turtle as it is about to snap down on another sailor. You can see the cannonball approach and then strike the monstrous turtle in the neck. A bloom of red liquid erupts forth from the wound and the fiendish creature screams in agony. It dives beneath the surface, the water turning pink with it's blood.

The elementals manage to get the remaining survivors back to the ship and Rain makes for the gap at top speed.

You pick up 9 sailors, the other three you don't see and suspect they were dragged down but the current when the turtle dove.

Horatio turns a shocked and surprised look at Rajah -

"That's a bloody amazing shot, lad," he calls out with real enthusiasm.

Amen-set's eyes widen in surprise, and her lips curl into a vicious smile.

NICE SHOT!!!

Horatio keeps the musket trained on the waves as the Elementals help the sailors as best as they can. Then he slings the musket over his shoulder, tosses some ropes into the water and does what he can to help the lads onto the ship.

You pick up 9 sailors, the other three you don't see and suspect they were dragged down but the current when the turtle dove.

GM - are any of them the captain of the ship?

He beckons Adular over and the priest moves to stand between them all, then - without even studying their condition - he instantly releases a wave of Channel Energy to heal the wounds of the sailors.

Channel Energy on the recently picked up sailors -
4d6 ⇒ (6, 3, 1, 4) = 14

Horatio summons Amen-set over to aid in helping the wounded sailors. He waves a salute at Rain and Variel and then turns to Rajah.

Pulling two cheroots from his pocket he nods at the gun crew who quickly begin to reload the cannon, just in case.

"Nice shooting, lad; care for a smoke?" he says as he offers the cheroot to Rajah.

As he waits for an answer he takes the other cheroot, bites off the end and spits it out and then puts it between his teeth and lights it with a wave of his hand.

You pick up 9 sailors, the other three you don't see and suspect they were dragged down but the current when the turtle dove.

Amen-set watches Adular's energy rush through the wounded sailors and she notes that Rain is still steering the ship while Horatio is talking to their new recruit.

She turns the attention on the sailors that are on the main deck.

"Greetings and well met," she says with a loud and commanding voice.

"Thy Fate is in the hands of the... the Captain of this vessel; it is by his grace that thy are all yet spared. As for his designs for you, no doubt they shall be made clear in time," she adds, clearly having trouble recalling the word for "Captain" in the Common Tongue, being more used to speaking in her native tongue...

"For now, thou art as guests until thy destiny would manifest otherwise," she adds.

Turning to Piper as well as the other Halflings she speaks to them -

"If thy would prepare food and drink for these folk, as well as heated rum for our sailors, and hot tea for my senet, then it would be good, I deem," she adds with her usual imperious tone as Piper quirks an eye at Amen-set, then shrugs and heads below with the other Halflings to prepare food and drink for the recently rescued men as well as the sailors on their ship.

After they leave, Amen-set sees Horatio's look, and she squares her shoulders and stands at attention and remembers her manners.

"I am Amen-set Neitaker, Oathbound to my Hatey-a', Ser Horatio Flynn. What are thy names, so that we may know how to address thee better?" she asks them, hoping to learn who they are and more about them as Rain encourages their ship to full speed.

Dhaavan looks at Rajah... Um, well there's that I guess?
...
Alright ya seadogs, let's get this done and get back up to speed! Rain, you got this!

Horatio turns a shocked and surprised look at Rajah -

"That's a bloody amazing shot, lad," he calls out with real enthusiasm.

As he notices the beast go motionless and vanish beneath the water, Rajah turns to Horatio and gives a wink and a nod before excitedly punching the air in front of him and giving once more an emphatic, "YES!" before quickly moving to the edge of the boat. "Now let's procure us some shipwrecked sailors, shall we?!" He aids in any way he can to help save as many as possible.

Horatio summons Amen-set over to aid in helping the wounded sailors. He waves a salute at Rain and Variel and then turns to Rajah.

Pulling two cheroots from his pocket he nods at the gun crew who quickly begin to reload the cannon, just in case.

"Nice shooting, lad; care for a smoke?" he says as he offers the cheroot to Rajah.

As he waits for an answer he takes the other cheroot, bites off the end and spits it out and then puts it between his teeth and lights it with a wave of his hand.

"No thank you, my good man! But I do appreciate the offer," he says with a nod. He then turns his attention to Amen-Set and her conversation with the newcomers, curious himself as to who they are.

Dhaavan looks at Rajah... Um, well there's that I guess?

Horatio turns a glance and Dhaavan and nods with a smile.

As he notices the beast go motionless and vanish beneath the water, Rajah turns to Horatio and gives a wink and a nod before excitedly punching the air in front of him and giving once more an emphatic, "YES!"

"Nice shooting, lad; care for a smoke?" he says as he offers the cheroot to Rajah.

"No thank you, my good man! But I do appreciate the offer," he says with a nod. He then turns his attention to Amen-Set and her conversation with the newcomers, curious himself as to who they are.

Horatio nods and takes back the cheroot and puts it in his coat pocket.

Meantime, he also waits to hear more about the new sailors, including at the least their names and positions.

From what he recalled of their captain, they seemed like good folk.

Well, as good as pirates can be, I suppose...

A sardonic light gleams in his eye as he watches Amen-set talk to the men.

Then he notes that while they wait for answers, Dhaavan takes charge of the rest of the ship with his usual talents.

Alright ya seadogs, let's get this done and get back up to speed! Rain, you got this!

At Dhaavan's words Horatio tosses a glance at Rain, curious to know how they were doing given the troubles in the waters.

He was also pleased that Amen-set had elected to get food and drinks for all of them, especially the newcomers; though he wondered how they'd take her tone and attitude.

They just lost their ship and more than likely most of their mates... I'd wager they're in shock now, but that won't last long, then we'll see...

As he too waits to hear the ship's status from Rain or the information from the new sailors, something occurs to him and he glances at Dhaavan.

"That turtle thing - I think it was Fiendish... you reckon that has any connection to those gods damned Chelaxian plans we heard of?" he asks, knowing that Dhaavan is more versed in certain lore than he.

Still, he does not share too much about that information in front of strangers, using only innuendo to communicate with Dhaavan, trusting that the First Officer would deduce his purpose without so many details.

Then he continued to wait for information with the rest of them...

Variel was ready to jump into the fight with cutlass drawn again but he never had the chance. Looking at Rain, Horatio, Amen-set and Rajah it seemed that they had everything well in hand. Excellent job all. I could not have envisioned a better result than what happened. Rain you managed to steer the ship in the perfect course to help the sailors and not compromise our position in the race. Horatio and Rajah, consider your names being etched into the side of the cannon there for your shooting prowess. We have our gunners that is for sure. Amen and Dhaavan, well done aiding the sailors. Calling out to Jiro up above, Keep on looking out ahead of us Jiro. With your eyes and Rain's skill we can avoid all of the dangers ahead of us.

Turning to his crew Variel praises them as well. Fine work there everyone. You will surely be earning your bonus at the end of this race! Keep listening to Rain and we will have our victory!

As the ship is still in the race Variel holds off on any more banter to let the crew continue to work as they need to. However there was 9 individuals that just came on board and Variel thought it only wise to check on them especially after Amen had addressed them already. Nothing wrong at al Flynn with her talking to them. Just coming over as well to add my 2cp and to try and recruit them to our ship. Approaching the least shell-shocked (pun intended), Welcome aboard the Lady. We saw what happened and had to help. However we are still in the Regatta. If you wish to help us then you will be paid for it. Otherwise there is room below decks to recover from your swim.

diplomacy 1d20 + 11 ⇒ (12) + 11 = 23

Welcome aboard the Lady. We saw what happened and had to help. However we are still in the Regatta. If you wish to help us then you will be paid for it. Otherwise there is room below decks to recover from your swim.

Amen-set turns and bows respectfully to Variel, clearly doing what she can to demonstrate to these newcomers that their captain is one of power and great prestige.

"Hearken then to our Sekhrey... Our Captain," she says, her tongue lapsing into Osirioni for a moment, then reverting back to Common "his mercy is mighty indeed; and thus by his grace are thy lives to be spared," she adds with a grave yet polite voice, hoping to echo and Aid Variel's Diplomacy -

Diplomacy Check to Aid Variel -
1d20 + 14 ⇒ (13) + 14 = 27

"For such generosity he seeks no boon from thee naming but one - that thy would pledge only thy friendship."

"If thy would accept the offer of friendship than do so with an eager heart and know that he rewards his allies justly - and with that enthusiasm to lend thy aid it is a truth that he might know thee better, starting first with thy names," she adds, hoping to learn more about the folk that had boarded their ship - not merely their names, of course, but she also wondered if they had rescued any of the officers of the ship, too...

A bloom of red liquid erupts forth from the wound and the fiendish creature screams in agony. It dives beneath the surface, the water turning pink with its blood.

The elementals manage to get the remaining survivors back to the ship and Rain makes for the gap at top speed.

She gave a small, triumphant cry when the wounded turtle dived beneath the surface of the bloodied water. Yet, she was not certain it was dead and so she was vigilant and continued to steer the Lady toward the gap with keen determination.

Rain could hear the conversations around her - moreso those closest to her. She inclined her head at Variel's praise and also quickly passed along hers to all. She did not have the luxury of time to introduce herself to the Sullied's sailors recently plucked from the ocean, so she called to Jiro via the message spell, "The giant turtle may not be dead. Keep watch, Jiro, and advise me if you see it surface once more."

Rain, determined to keep her position and not permit the Wormwood to gain any ground and pass her, continued driving the ship forward toward/through (?) the gap.

Prof Sail: 1d20 + 23 ⇒ (18) + 23 = 41

Rain, determined to keep her position and not permit the Wormwood to gain any ground and pass her, continued driving the ship forward through the gap.

As Horatio waits to hear what Dhaavan might have to say about Fiends in general, and Amen-set waits to hear the new sailors introduce themselves formally - Piper has come aloft bearing a bevy of hot beverages and some food for the men.

But before she can pass out the food to the sailors, Amen-set gives her a hard stare and then flicks her eyes at the helm until Piper - somewhat confused - realized what the girl is about and stifles an exasperated sigh and moves to the quarterdeck.

"Begging your pardon... um, your Ladyship?" Piper says, not entirely sure how she should formally address Rain in front of strangers, but nevertheless, she continues - "this is compliments of the young lass," she adds with a nod of her had at Amen-set.

She offers a tin flask held inside a leather wrap which would make sure anyone holding it would not burn their hands.

The flask can hang easily around a person's neck by a cord, and it is filled with herbal tea - heated to just the best temperature, and prepared the way Amen-set knows Rain likes her tea.

"It's damp, cold, wet and windy - this should heat you up proper," she adds with a grin, then turns her gaze to watch the wake of their ship slicing through the waves.

Then she turns to look at the other officers.

True to her word she's brought them options of heated, mulled wine; heated brandy and even a flask of sake, heated as was custom, which one of the Halflings carries up to Jiro.

There is also a platter the other Halflings are carrying that has rashers of broiled salt pork, boiled hardtack, and a plate with what looks like some limes cut up into thin slices so that everyone - including the newcomers - may have a bit of food with their drink, if they wish...

"Will there be anything else?" she says to anyone - including not just Rain, but any of the other officers as well...

As soon as I learn more, I'll take my next action :)

Seijiro continues to keep watch, both for the turtle resurfacing ... that shell would bring a pretty penny if it came up close to the ship and wouldn't slow them down to collect... though the cannon DID damage it a goodly amount so maybe not... and he keeps watch for any more reefs or other impediments under the water.

When one of the halflings climbs up with a cup of sake, he gives him/her a bow and a soft "Thank you... that was a skillful climb and I am in awe that you did it with hot sake in your hand as well... Be careful on your way down!"

When one of the halflings climbs up with a cup of sake, he gives him/her a bow and a soft "Thank you... that was a skillful climb and I am in awe that you did it with hot sake in your hand as well... Be careful on your way down!"

The Halfling seems surprised but genuinely pleased by the bow, and tips his hand to his forelock respectfully to Jiro.

"Thank ye, indeed, Chief," he says with a rough accent, but with sincere courtesy.

"Ye let me know if ye be needing anything else, or if'n ye got a hankering fer anything special fer eatin' near grub-time and I'll make sure it's seen to, no worries, savvy?" he adds with another tip to his forelock and a bright smile.

hey guys and gals, sorry for the lack of posting. Fell asleep while posting last night and never submitted.

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You successfully haul the remaining crew aboard the ship and find that only one officer survived, the rest being an assortment of riggers and swabs that managed to jump clear of the ship when it was struck.

I'll have the officer up in a moment.

You manage to make it through the two spires without further incident and reach open water again. The next part of the journey is the most fraught with peril however as you have only about an hour before you actually must enter the Eye of Abendego itself!

I'll have the officer up in a moment.

Horatio will make sure that the wounds of the new folk are tended to - if any - and that they're given food and drink, if they wish.

Until he hears names, there's little more he feels like saying to them at this point...

Knowledge Checks on Eye of Abendego

Arcana: 18
Dungeoneering: 18
Engineering: 25
Geography: 22
History: 18
Local: 20
Nature: 18
Nobility: 18
Religion: 18

"Begging your pardon... um, your Ladyship?" Piper says, not entirely sure how she should formally address Rain in front of strangers, but nevertheless, she continues - "this is compliments of the young lass," she adds with a nod of her had at Amen-set.

She offers a tin flask held inside a leather wrap which would make sure anyone holding it would not burn their hands.

The flask can hang easily around a person's neck by a cord, and it is filled with herbal tea - heated to just the best temperature, and prepared the way Amen-set knows Rain likes her tea.

"It's damp, cold, wet and windy - this should heat you up proper," she adds with a grin, then turns her gaze to watch the wake of their ship slicing through the waves.

She almost chuckled aloud at the formal title Piper had granted her. "Piper, you may call me Rain. Thank you to Amen-set and yourself for the flask of tea. It will help the closer we get to the Eye of Abendego." She took a small sip and then using one hand, placed the corked flask around her neck.

You manage to make it through the two spires without further incident and reach open water again. The next part of the journey is the most fraught with peril however as you have only about an hour before you actually must enter the Eye of Abendego itself!

Calling out to the officers and crew, "We have an hour before we reach the Eye. Those on lookout, keep vigilant and secure. We must prepare the ship for we will receive a fair lashing from wind and rain soon enough."

Survival to navigate a course through the more/most dangerous sections of waters of the Eye: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (17) + 18 = 35
Prof Sailor: 1d20 + 23 ⇒ (19) + 23 = 42
Know. Geography to navigate surely through the ocean terrain: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (14) + 15 = 29

She almost chuckled aloud at the formal title Piper had granted her. "Piper, you may call me Rain. Thank you to Amen-set and yourself for the flask of tea. It will help the closer we get to the Eye of Abendego." She took a small sip and then using one hand, placed the corked flask around her neck.

"I am glad you like the tea," she says with a nod friendly smile.

"Please let me know if I can aid you with anything else," she adds with a polite voice.

Calling out to the officers and crew, "We have an hour before we reach the Eye. Those on lookout, keep vigilant and secure. We must prepare the ship for we will receive a fair lashing from wind and rain soon enough."

Horatio nods at her observations about the upcoming threat of the storm.

"Aye! Meantime I'll do what I can to make sure we're ready for any threats - if they happen to surface," he adds, then turns to Rajah, gesturing broadly at the siege guns, curious to know if the man would like to continue to aid him in with these weapons.

For now he trusts Variel and Dhaavan to handle the particulars about readying the ship from a storm, and Jiro to continue to keep watch.

As for himself, he is personally more intent on The Wormood, more concerned about her position, speed, bearing - and intentions...

He had not forgotten the press gang, nor the assassins that nearly killed him on Harrigan's ship - nor had he forgotten languishing in the "hot box" as punishment for defending himself against those same assassins.

Further, while he guessed that Harrigan might have forgotten such things, he doubted highly that Harrigan had forgotten the less genteel remarks that he himself had made about Harrigan in front of the Pirate Council and the Pirate King and grunted with a sardonic gleam in his eye at that recollection.

In certain matters Blood is the only argument that can prevail..

In any case, for now the others could keep watch on the sea and sky, his own attention was focused on Men.

Which reminded him...

Turning to the recently saved sailors who were feasting on the food and drink, he fixes his eye on the officer.

"I'm sorry - I don't think I caught your name..." he adds, turning from his place by the cannon.

"Aye! Meantime I'll do what I can to make sure we're ready for any threats - if they happen to surface," he adds, then turns to Rajah, gesturing broadly at the siege guns, curious to know if the man would like to continue to aid him in with these weapons.

Grinning, Rajah gives Horatio a thumbs up before rubbing his hands together in excitement and moving to reload the cannon and light ballista, readying them for another possible attack.

Grinning, Rajah gives Horatio a thumbs up before rubbing his hands together in excitement and moving to reload the cannon and light ballista, readying them for another possible attack.

Seeing Rajah's reaction, Horatio chuckles a bit.

"You fancy learning how to shoot, I'd be happy to show you," he says as he takes a long drag from the smoke, then glances back at the new sailors.

While he would have done what he could to learn more details about them, his mind was currently focused on the issues regarding the Eye and how that information might be able to help Rain.

Not to mention that whoreson Harrigan...

Speaking of whoreson's...

"Does anyone know who that mysterious Man in Black is that is at the helm of The Wormwood?" he asks.

"Also - that Man in Black? From what I could tell, he seemed to be favoring his left hand, but something tell's me that he's not really left-handed," he adds as he rubs his chin and Ame-set rolls her eyes and lets out an audible sigh for some reason.

Rain was outdoing herself again at the helm. Still Variel did not want her straining at the wheel this entire time. As it seemed the worst was over for the time being Variel approached her after Piper gave her some food and tea. Do you want e to hold the wheel for you to give you a break. At least relax your arms a bit until we hit the rougher waters of the Eye. Then by all means I would want you back at the wheel.

Variel gently lays his hand on hers upon the wheel knowing that she will understand he is not forcing her into this but just caring about her well being and strain. Calling a quick cantrip to mind Variel dries Rain off from the damp and cold. There my dear.

After he hears Rain's response he calls out for the crew to take shifts and get some relaxation before the big push through the eye. Take shifts and grab some grub. Don't leave your positions for long but make sure you get a chance to stretch if you need to.

Someone give Jiro a chance as well to get some rest. He has been up in the crow's nest this entire time and might need a break for his eyes.

The officer, a woman of slight build but with a feel of wiry strength to her, nods her thanks and says in a very strong Aldoran accent My greatest thanks to you all. The Dragon Turtle came out of nowhere and scuttled us good. Never had a chance after that. She looks over at Rajah and says I saw the cannon shot that took down the beastie. That was a mighty fine one by your cannoneer. Not sure if it's dead but it ain't goin' to be causing any more trouble for a right while.

The rest of the crew flop down, exhausted from their swim, giving profuse thanks to you all as they do so.
-------------------------------------------

Eye of Abendego

The intensity of the Eye is variable. At its weakest it can tear the sails off the biggest ships. At its strongest, the wind alone can blow a large vessel into splinters. The Eye periodically spawns smaller storms which travel up and down the Garundi coast, bringing torrential rain and hurricane-speed winds to outlying regions. It is these storms that brought down the countries of Lirgen and Yamasa, creating the Sodden Lands.

--------------------------------------------

Rain, sailing the Eye is unlike anything in the world. It is extremely unpredictable and you will need the entire crew. With your skill you make it possible, a lesser pilot wouldn't even have a chance.

The officer, a woman of slight build but with a feel of wiry strength to her, nods her thanks and says in a very strong Aldoran accent My greatest thanks to you all. The Dragon Turtle came out of nowhere and scuttled us good. Never had a chance after that. She looks over at Rajah and says I saw the cannon shot that took down the beastie. That was a mighty fine one by your cannoneer. Not sure if it's dead but it ain't goin' to be causing any more trouble for a right while.

Horatio looks at the woman with narrowed eyes.

"Outstanding," he says with a dry voice "I'm glad we could help."

He turns to The Blue Rajah -

"If you do manage to find out her name, please let me know, I'd appreciate it," he adds with a nod to the Warpriest.

The rest of the crew flop down, exhausted from their swim, giving profuse thanks to you all as they do so.

Horatio glances at the sky, then turns back to the others.

"I'm sure we do appreciate your thanks, but we got some hard chop before us... perhaps something a bit more pragmatic might be handy?" he says as he watches them, then looks at Amen-set and sees her staring hard Variel, her full, lush lips twisting into a tight line.

Rain was outdoing herself again at the helm. Still Variel did not want her straining at the wheel this entire time. As it seemed the worst was over for the time being Variel approached her after Piper gave her some food and tea. Do you want e to hold the wheel for you to give you a break. At least relax your arms a bit until we hit the rougher waters of the Eye. Then by all means I would want you back at the wheel.

Horatio's eyes roam to watch Variel and he listens to his talk, but in an effort to forestall any issue that Amen-set might precipitate, he attempts some more diplomatic options...

"Begging your pardon, Captain-General," he says with tight voice "but - no offense - I ask that you belay that talk at this time."

He glances to Amen-set and she stiffens and bows, saying nothing.

He turns back to Variel, keeping up the show of forced decorum and overt manners to try to impress the new folk on the ship with the professionalism of the crew of The Dread Lady, in the off chance that they all survived and returned to mingle with others he was determined to demonstrate that they did things proper on this ship.

"The Pilot-Major has the con; it's her right to surrender the wheel when and if she feels it safe to do so... Meantime, she made it very clear that we have less than an hour to get this ship ready to handle some of the ugliest weather in The Shackles; maybe that's the thing we ought to be focusing on right now - and finally, when it comes to matters of seamanship and sailing, as the Pilot-Major it's her purview to give orders to the rest of us for the safety of the ship."

"She gave The Word - so it seems that our job is to get the ship ready for that, and not lollygagging, begging your pardon," he says tipping his hand to his forelock in a salute.

He quickly switches to Aquan, hoping that the new crew members don't speak it -

Not sure specifically what checks need to be made; but Horatio does have some skill as a Carpenter, and so does Piper - if we need to do any work to jury-rig any improvements to the ship to help Rain, just let us know what we need to roll and it will be done!

Someone give Jiro a chance as well to get some rest. He has been up in the crow's nest this entire time and might need a break for his eyes.

Rajah takes a glance up at the fellow in the crow's nest while he works. "Captain Variel!" he calls out. "I've somewhat of a keen eye, good sir. I would be more than willing to take his place if need be. And, of course, as long as Sir Flynn does not need me at the gunnery for a time," he tells him as he continues to work.

The officer, a woman of slight build but with a feel of wiry strength to her, nods her thanks and says in a very strong Aldoran accent My greatest thanks to you all. The Dragon Turtle came out of nowhere and scuttled us good. Never had a chance after that. She looks over at Rajah and says I saw the cannon shot that took down the beastie. That was a mighty fine one by your cannoneer. Not sure if it's dead but it ain't goin' to be causing any more trouble for a right while.

The rest of the crew flop down, exhausted from their swim, giving profuse thanks to you all as they do so.

Overhearing the compliment, "Thank you, milady!" he interjects without interrupting his work.

He turns to The Blue Rajah -

"If you do manage to find out her name, please let me know, I'd appreciate it," he adds with a nod to the Warpriest.

Listening as he wipes his hands off with a rag, Rajah looks over at the woman a moment before looking back at Horatio. "I will see what I can do, Sir Flynn," he says with a grin, nodding.

Making his way to the officer, "Madam, if you would, please allow me to introduce myself: 'The Blue Rajah' at your service," he says with a bow. "But Rajah will do. It's far simpler. And, if I may ask, by what name do you travel with, milady?" he asks politely, grinning.

Seijiro stays in the crow's nest unless someone comes to relieve him... with the winds of the Eye coming closer, he ties a strong rope around his waist and secures it to the mast, so if anything happens that might affect his stability or the integrity of the nest or the mast, he can swing to safety before he becomes a statistic.

If someone comes to relieve him, he'll climb down and take a short break, having something very light to eat... He doesn't want a full stomach for the next leg of the race.

He sends Tomo to his cabin with the door secured behind him, to ride out the Eye in the relative safety of the enclosed room. "Be safe, little one and stay inside until I give you the all-clear." The little monkey reluctantly but obediently complies.

He turns to The Blue Rajah -

"If you do manage to find out her name, please let me know, I'd appreciate it," he adds with a nod to the Warpriest.

Listening as he wipes his hands off with a rag, Rajah looks over at the woman a moment before looking back at Horatio. "I will see what I can do, Sir Flynn," he says with a grin, nodding.

Horatio watches the exchange thoughtfully as he takes a last tug from his smoke and then throws the butt of the cheroot over the side of the ship.

He had asked the same question of the woman, of course, as had Amen-set.

Still, perhaps she would be more kindly disposed to Rajah?

Only time would tell...

Then he notices Tomo run off for the hatch below and frowns - annoyed at himself for not have ordered snacks for the little monkey earlier, but relieved that he would be safe during the storm.

He cocks his head and then looks back at Rajah.

"I don't know how things are going to turn out, but I'm glad to have you aboard," he says to the man with a sincere voice.

The woman turns and lays her eyes on Flynn after the comment and bristles a bit before a calm comes over her and she says quite simply, My apologies for forgetting to announce my name and station upon entrance to your vessel. I can only humbly beg your forgiveness and request you not take any insult out upon my men that I may have caused. I alone bear that responsibility as First Mate of the former Sullied Strumpet, may she rest beneath the waves. I am Madeline Melion and am at the service of you all aboard the famous Dread Lady. Looking over at Variel she says Captain Nightstorm, your fierce reputation precedes you, as does the skill of your helmswoman. Rain Tanetthir correct? I saw the driving you displayed at the race start and was incredibly impressed. We knew our only hope of beating you was to take the suicidal route past the Hangman's Atoll and one of our former crew was a Locathah who knew a secret way through the Raker Shoals that allowed us to get past you.

It is at this point you see her eyes begin to roll up in her head and she begins to faint in front of you all.

Oh bloody hell! Somebody check on her and see what's wrong! I cant tell if she just went faint or if there's a medical malady what's responsible.

Dhaavan takes a moment to call up his Second Sight to detect magic and see if some maker of curse or spell put her under.
Spellcraft: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (12) + 12 = 24
If Dhaavan does detect any magic that he does not recognize he calls out, Cap'n, come on down here. Can you tell what in the nine this is?

as we are heading into the eye, And I don't want to delay if I don't get to the thread the first mate will order Alright, the eye's treacherous, and skilled as she is, we don't want to make Rain pilot a Broken boat. These seas can sink even a most stalwart ship and I for one won't be seeing my Lady hurt, so any with the magic to do so, will be casting minor spells of mending if you see ANY damage to our girl here and counteract the weather. I can bring some more significant charm to bear a few times to perform repairs, and any with Greater magic at their disposal, we may need it in a pinch so hold that in reserve

Dhaavan will be using Mending as much as needed, and can cast Make whole with MP. Anyone with Greater Make Whole should save that and may need to use it for a bigger heal

He also wreathes himself in darkness as we get into the storm... who knows what's coming {ooc]Cloak of Darkness[/ooc]

Variel takes Amen-set's glare and Horatio's comments in stride. Instead of explaining himself Variel simply responds back with a simple Noted, Master Gunner in common.

In Aquan though Variel elaborates slightly, IT was an offer not a command Horatio. The strongest steel will break if too much force is applied for too long. A little respite to keep her fatigued may give her the energy needed for later.

Variel looks towards Rain to see what her wishes are.

"I don't know how things are going to turn out, but I'm glad to have you aboard," he says to the man with a sincere voice.

Rajah turns his head toward Horatio and grins, nodding in thanks.

As the woman nearly topples over, Rajah quickly moves to catch her, laying her down gently. "I've got her, Lord Dhaavan! Do not fret, my good man!" He then immediately moves to retrieve his pack and comes back with it, removing his healer's kit from within. He then proceeds to check her symptoms.

Heal: 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (2) + 12 = 14 Yeesh. Will use Mythic Surge
Mythic Surge: 1d6 ⇒ 6 = 20
(2/5 used). Alright, that's much better.

Is it possible to take 10 on a heal check? I don't really know.

As the woman nearly topples over, Rajah quickly moves to catch her, laying her down gently. "I've got her, Lord Dhaavan! Do not fret, my good man!" He then immediately moves to retrieve his pack and comes back with it, removing his healer's kit from within. He then proceeds to check her symptoms.

Horatio glances at Rajah -

"Don't worry, we don't do much "fretting" on this ship - we ruminate, sometimes even exasperate, but fretting's not much of our style..." he says with a sardonic grin.

Then he drops a knee next to her to aid him.

Heal Check to Aid Rajah
1d20 + 10 ⇒ (13) + 10 = 23

EDIT: Rajah, with Horatio's "Aid Check" you have a +2 to your roll, giving it a 22, I believe...

He looks at the woman thoughtfully.

"She was already healed by the other priest as soon as this lot touched deck..." he muses with a thoughtful voice "but I'd be willing to bet that losing her ship, her captain, her crew, her home, and her livelihood - and all in less a minute - well, it might have been a bit much to handle..." he adds, as he pauses to press his fingertips gently on her flesh to feel her pulse, then slides her eyelid back to see if her pupils are dilated.

As he considers things, a sudden thought occurs to him.

Horatio will search her body for any weapons, as well as any other items of gear of note - he puts anything of value (especially dangerous stuff) on the deck next to her, just in case...

Once that is done, he defers to Rajah's medical skill...

Sighing, "I would be hard pressed to disagree, Sir Flynn. That amount of loss in a mere matter of moments would assuredly take its toll upon one. I shall make her as comfortable as possible." He reaches back into his pack and pulls out a blanket, folding it upon itself and using it to prop her head upon it. "There; that'll give her something a bit more comfortable than the ship's deck to lie upon."

Do you want me to hold the wheel for you to give you a break. At least relax your arms a bit until we hit the rougher waters of the Eye. Then by all means I would want you back at the wheel.

Variel gently lays his hand on hers upon the wheel knowing that she will understand he is not forcing her into this but just caring about her well being and strain. Calling a quick cantrip to mind Variel dries Rain off from the damp and cold. There my dear.

She had not said it of course, because of the furious pace of the race and then the rescue, but she enjoyed Variel's company by her side -- it strengthened her resolve to do right by the crew and ship in the regatta.

"I could take a moment to stretch my muscles and thank you for removing the damp," a grateful smile playing on her lips as she granted Variel control of the Wheel so she could rest a moment. She had given the ship a nice lead and she looked about topside - at the newcomers and the regular crewmen. She stretched her arms and rotated her shoulders as she did so, taking a another sip of tea from the flask around her neck.

"The Pilot-Major has the con; it's her right to surrender the wheel when and if she feels it safe to do so."

She had heard Flynn's words and cast a glance in his and Amen-set's direction. "It is safe at this time and will give me some ease for the harder work to come."

Hearing Variel mention Jiro's time in the Nest, she called to one of the nearby riggers, "Ahoy, Ratline. Climb the Nest and relieve the quartermaster for the next half hour."

"I've somewhat of a keen eye, good sir. I would be more than willing to take his place if need be. And, of course, as long as Sir Flynn does not need me at the gunnery for a time," he tells him as he continues to work.

She heard Rajah say he could take Jiro's place but wondered if Flynn would grant him leave from the gunnery and preparing for the next part of the race.

"You may relieve Ratline if you have the time, Rajah," remembering the sailor's unusual name even though they had not been formally introduced.

"Rain Tanetthir correct? I saw the driving you displayed at the race start and was incredibly impressed. We knew our only hope of beating you was to take the suicidal route past the Hangman's Atoll and one of our former crew was a Locathah who knew a secret way through the Raker Shoals that allowed us to get past you."

Rain inclined her head in respect at the lady first mate. She did not give voice that had the Sullied Strumpet not taken the suicidal route, then the Lady would have come face to face with the dragon turtle. Too many of their sailors had died, including the captain, so such words would not have been seemly. Instead she answered, "I am sorry for the loss of your ship and your crew mates. You are welcome on the Lady."

Then just mere moments later, Rain watched as the first mate fainted dead away and was then administered to by Dhaavan, Rajah and Flynn. "Make her comfortable," Rain called out. Then added, "Rajah continue tending to Madeline. Ratline will be fine in the Nest."

Rain looked back at Variel and taking a few steps came to stand by the Wheel. "Thank you, A'maelamin. But you must go and see to the needs of the crew and ensure all are ready when the time comes. If the Sullied's first mate does not come to, then she must be taken below deck where it is safer and can be tended there." Effortlessly she took control of the ship from the Captain. Looking down at Neko laying down by the side of the Wheel, she instructed her below, "You, too, should go below soon as we will suffer storms and wild sea as we sail through the Eye." The golden cat stared up with her deep emerald eyes, gave a nod and then stood and padded down the stairs and down below. Through their telepathic link Neko relayed, //If you need me, call to me and I will return.//

She raised her voice to the sailors around her, "The Eye of Abendego is most unpredictable. With its hard rain and storms it will take all of us to overcome the obstacles to come, so watch, listen and act as one. This I say also to any of the Sullied's crew hale enough to aid us in this regatta. I hope the new sails will hold in the gale winds, but in case they do not, I want the backup sails readied. Any with carpentry skill should have tools readied if the winds begin to splinter the ship. Any topside should secure themselves with rope lest they are washed overboard. Especially anyone in the crow's nest or by the rails. Set lanterns about the ship for it will grow darker and we will need light to see by. We will need lookouts to help guide us through treacherous waters."

Looking down to Flynn and Rajah, "Make certain the powder for the cannons remains dry. We could be set upon by another sea creature as we cross the Eye and it will not do us good if we cannot fire our weapons." (And anything else that needs to be dry to work. ;))

Anything else she would leave to Variel to address and command as he saw fit as the Captain.

"Make her comfortable," Rain called out. Then added, "Rajah continue tending to Madeline. Ratline will be fine in the Nest."

Horatio glances at Rajah, then hauls himself to his feet. He stares at the pile of gear and he took from her and uses his toe of his boot to slide any of her weapons and gear from her fallen form.

It was a fact that he typically advocated stripping prisoners because everyone knew that clothes could hide hidden weapons and magical items, but in this case he'd settle for simply making sure she was unarmed of obvious weapons before turning his back on her.

Does anyone know what Horatio found on the fallen First Officer? In theory she should be grateful, but it doesn't hurt to play the percentages if she's going to be taken below decks...

"Thank you, A'maelamin. But you must go and see to the needs of the crew and ensure all are ready when the time comes. If the Sullied's first mate does not come to, then she must be taken below deck where it is safer and can be tended there." Effortlessly she took control of the ship from the Captain.

Horatio glances up from the prostrate woman and watched Variel, waiting for him to say something - to act or speak - to address the crew as the Pilot-Major advised.

As he waited he turned to Rajah -

"In matters of gunnery, I think it would be better if you stayed aloft... As for the woman?" he adds, then his eyes flick to Adular, then back to Rajah.

"We have a priest among us who seems less eager to fight than others - he can go below and tend to the woman and you can stay aloft with us," he adds.

This seems like a good gambit to move Adular into the NPC zone, and it leaves Rajah on the Main Deck for action - this assumes that our combined Heal Checks didn't reveal more information from the fallen, though...

"The Eye of Abendego is most unpredictable. With its hard rain and storms it will take all of us to overcome the obstacles to come, so watch, listen and act as one. This I say also to any of the Sullied's crew hale enough to aid us in this regatta. I hope the new sails will hold in the gale winds, but in case they do not, I want the backup sails readied. Any with carpentry skill should have tools readied if the winds begin to splinter the ship. Any topside should secure themselves with rope lest they are washed overboard. Especially anyone in the crow's nest or by the rails. Set lanterns about the ship for it will grow darker and we will need light to see by. We will need lookouts to help guide us through treacherous waters."

Horatio nods at her orders, especially approving of the use of Life Lines to make sure none of the lads are washed over.

As for the lanterns, he moves forward to the main mast and casts "Light" on its base, and nods to Amen-set, then jerks his head to the foredeck and she nods and rushes forward to the helm, then reaches down and casts "Light" on their figurehead so that the prow shines like a beacon in the darkening sky.

He trusts the others to tend to lighting lanterns, though.

Looking down to Flynn and Rajah, "Make certain the powder for the cannons remains dry. We could be set upon by another sea creature as we cross the Eye and it will not do us good if we cannot fire our weapons."

He nods to Rain and then turns to look at Rajah -

"You're able to cast, eh? Do you have the Cantrip Prestidigitation? It'd be handy for that sort of thing," he asks.

"If there is a problem with the powder, though, we can swap to the ballista and catapult," he adds and considers things for a moment.

It was a certainty that the man called "The Master of Storms" had indicated combat between ships was not permitted - that could only mean he was using Divination to scry on their vessels to insure this order was obeyed... though, like Rain, he felt it would be better to be prepared for any eventuality.

His eyes moved aft and he watched Variel for a long while, then he turned his attention back to the cannon.

It seemed very clear that they were being watched and likely judged, and not just by the Master of Storms, but also likely the new men they had freed from the chop. Men who - if they survived - would likely tell tales of the deeds of The Dread Lady and their crew upon their return to port...

Since the entire intention of this race was to prove their worth to the Pirate Council then he felt it was wise to continue to maintain their professionalism.

That said, he waits for a moment before either the Captain-General or the First Officer would address the crew to get them to act - and not because he disagreed with Rain's orders in the slightest, in point of fact, he agreed with her orders completely.

As his eyes move back and forth between Variel and Dhaavan he called out to some others -

"Rosie, take three likely lads to the Fighting Top with bows and full quivers of arrows," he says, knowing that in such situations the Master Gunner was formally in charge of ship's security - unless, of course, the Captain-General or the First Officer overruled his orders "Cast light on one of your arrows and if we see a threat, let your first shot be with that arrow so we know what we're shooting at," he adds to her.

He turns to Piper -

"The Pilot-Major's ordered us to be ready for storms - do what you can to help the crew to the best of your abilities," he says and she snaps a salute to him, then turns and bows to Rain.

Horatio eyes flick to Variel and Dhaavan again, but he says nothing.

Then he turns to look at Rain as he mentally reviews her orders again and smiled grimly at her wisdom, giving her a small nod.

"Aye-aye, Pilot-Major," he calls out with a loud and respectful voice, and then gives her a salute.

Then rushes to obey.

Through Rajah and Horatio's examination of Madeline, you find out she has a large swelling on the back of her head and suspect some sort of brain trauma. You know from experience that injuries to the brain can be tricky to treat and don't always respond to pure healing. Through a combination of magical healing and surgery to relieve the pressure you can heal her.

Leaving this open to you all to decide how to proceed. IF you are going to do the surgery you have to do it REALLY fast! You will be hitting the Eye in less than an hour. You will need both Rajah and Flynn to pull this off and save her but with unique ideas and good description of the surgery I will give bonuses!

-----------------------------------------------

Rain you see about 20 minutes behind you that the Wormwood is there.

After the orders are acted upon Horatio returns to study the woman again with Rajah.

Through Rajah and Horatio's examination of Madeline, you find out she has a large swelling on the back of her head and suspect some sort of brain trauma.

Horatio lets out a long sigh, as if the rigors of the day have worn hard on him and the strain is starting to show.

However, orders are orders and he has a duty to perform.

”I’ve seen cases like this before, but I seem to remember some treatment procedures from a translation of an Osirioni Text I read at the Sargavan Medical school,” he says to Rajah, though his eyes are on the woman.

He pauses to take a deep breath as if thinking on options, his eyes flicking to Rajah.

”I had a friend when I was younger; he was struck in the head when we working at the lumber yard with my uncle – a few weeks later he used to have fits – some called them “epilepsy”…”

”I knew a surgeon then, a man named Jacopo – he hailed from Elesomare; he was skilled in medicine as well as lumber – but he had skill in working with such cases as well,” Horatio continues, as if talking helps him focus.

”It seems obvious she has suffered Traumatic Brain Injury,” he continues, and tilts her head back slightly, using his fingers to gently open her mouth. Then, when her mouth is opened, pulls a clean rag from his pocket and slides it into her mouth and gently sweeps it of any obstructions that may be blocking the airway, pulling her tongue slightly forward in her mouth so it does not restrict air flow.

He then places another similar reed slowly and delicately down her throat, then attaches a small thing that looks like a little ball made of the sap of a rubber tree onto the protruding side of the reed and squeezes it gently, forcing the reed to expand in her windpipe somewhat. Then he pulls the plunger off and this forces the reed in her airway to allow more easy access to air flow into her lungs.

He glances at Rajah –

”Sorry – that’s just a bit of a trick to help her get more air into her lungs.”

”If she was struck in the head by the Turtle Shell, or some debris, then that is likely what caused this accident. Further, it is also likely that we only have a short time to work, as the subject may be suffering from cerebral hypoxia,” he says with an almost apologetic tone, hoping that his somewhat crude explanations to don’t seem too pedantic – or even worse; to crude or simplistic.

Amen-set has moved to observe and she peers at the woman with a curious expression and Horatio looks up at her.

”Cerebral hypoxia in this case is likely caused by ischemia,” he adds, then returns his gaze to the woman and he pulls from his medical kit a long, thin flexible reed and gently inserts it into her right nostril and delicately slides it until the reed is able to reach the back of her throat and force open her nasal passages to allow more air to enter.

”Ischemia is essentially insufficient blood flow – and that can lead to cerebral hypoxia, which is basically when the brain doesn’t get enough oxygen,” he says as Amen-set nods slowly.

He unfolds his full Masterwork Medical Kit and Surgical tools and looks at Rajah.

”Obviously we have a very short time to act,” he says with a brisk tone.

”First, we must make sure the patient’s neck is absolutely straight and that her head is elevated properly,” he says, making sure Rajah keeps her legs and back as straight as can be so that there is no pressure put on the veins near her neck ”this will help alleviate some of the fluid that may be pressing on her brain,” he adds as he delicately adjusts her head and shoulders – making sure that that they are raised, but not in a way that would impede blood flow.

”Next, we must try some of this,” he says as he gently removes a small vial from his kit and with some tweezers takes a few white, grainy looking crystals and places them on her tongue and lets them dissolve.

”That substance taste sweet – like sugar, but it’s main effect is that it should reduce the pressure insider her head – it inhibits inner-cranium swelling,” he adds to Amen-set who’s eyes widen in acceptance at Horatio’s words, but she still seems a bit out of her depth.

”Next, we must try this,” he says, and then pulls a small tin spoon and adds some water to it as well as some powder to the water. He then casts a quick Cantrip on it and it causes the liquid in the spoon to bubble and the powder to merge with it, until it is a clear fluid.

He takes a thick cord and wraps it around her forearm and taps her skin, feeling for a vein. Then – finding the vein – he takes a needle out and it seems hollow with another similar, smaller rubber fixture at the end.

To this he hangs a small flask from a metal tripod and pours the contents of the melted spoon into the flask, as well as more water – which he creates with a minor spell so it is fresh and pure.

The tube runs from the flask down to the needle and he gently plunges the needle into her arm and lets the fluid drip slowly into her vein – the process barely taking more than a few minutes.

He turns to Amen-set –

”Hold the needle firm in her arm, we are letting the nutrients in this fluid into her blood; this is important, especially if she is unconscious, as the production of such things will be at its lowest and that will mean her heart will not beat strongly – and this can lead to even worse issues with ischemia,” but Amen-set nods, as this is fairly obvious; instead, she focuses on keeping the needle still so the fluids can enter her blood safely.

He studies her for her reaction for a few minutes, but clearly does not like what he sees.

”How did thy learn such feats of medicine?” Amen-set asked, clearly surprised that he seems so skilled and learned in this particular subject.

Horatio grunted in response, then lifted the woman’s eyelid to peer at her pupils and frowns.

”As I said – that man, Jacopo – he taught me. As for this type of medicine in particular? As I said, I had a friend who had something called epilepsy – if you have ever had to treat someone with that condition, all of this medical information is fairly common knowledge,” he adds and Amen-set’s eyes widen in a surprise.

He shakes his head after studying her and looks at Rajah.

”I was afraid of this – we must attempt a Trepanning,” he says to Rajah, then reaches into his surgical tools and removes a strange instrument and places it on a clean linen cloth, then pulls out some scissors and begins to pull her hair from her scalp and gently cut away the hair so a small, fairly bald, spot can be seen on her scalp.

Then, gingerly, he places the edge of the surgical tool against the scalp and looks at Rajah and Amen-set.

”She may not be conscious, but I shall need all of your Aid to perform this task; if she has a fit – or even flinches – things may go ill. Please, do what you can to aid me,” he says, petitioning them both.

Obviously Horatio will indeed attempt a Trepanning. By the way; all the medical information pursuant to this is included with the various links to medical and historical references which may be referenced for not only accuracy, but a better understanding the procedure. Every link is directly related to something in this medical task; feel free to study them for more information, if you’d like.

To be fair, most of it is pretty basic medical stuff for anyone who’s had issues with head trauma – or seizures; but if you’d like to know more, I hope it’s fun reading.

Finally – the big moment (and here’s hoping the research augments this)…
Heal Check (Including bonuses from Tools) – and, for what it’s worth, Hoartio won’t say no to any Aid checks –
1d20 + 10 ⇒ (6) + 10 = 16

EDIT: Can't stress this enough - that roll sucked; please let me know if anyone Aids him - that would be great. Thanks!

GM - I hope the narrative and notes help the roll; I wish I could have had something more comprehensive, but today was a rather long day for me; here's hoping this will work :)

When he gets relieved, Seijiro will swing down from the crow's nest and spend a little time with Tomo relaxing, and then preparing himself for the rigors of being in the nest during their trip through the edge of the Eye. After a short time meditating and having a cup of tea, he heads back out of his cabin and climbs up to the crow's nest again, thanking his relief... "Thank you for giving me a little breather. You can head back now, and be safe... this is going to be a rough trip."

He casts another message spell and connects himself to Variel and Rain, with plans to renew the spell every 20 minutes until they are out of the Eye again.

First thing he does is spot the closest ships and pass the information on their relative positions and determinable speeds through the message spell.

Rajah listens intently and helps Horatio in every way possible needed.

Rajah will aid another with a +12. Which that should give it a +2 more. He will use his fervor to keep her healed as often as he must. He will also convert any leftover spells to cure spells if necessary.

Dhaavan groans, and grumbles a little. Ugh, this medical shenaniganery isn't in my whealhouse, but I have healing that works well for it. You let me know if something isn't quite right Or there's too much blood, and I'll do like I did with the boy back at The Rock.

heal: 1d20 ⇒ 14 aides. Dhaavan is able to intuit when to use his magic and assists with tools, and sanitation using prestifigitation.

To ensure there are not further complications Dhaavan will apply infernal healing as needed, as fast-healing is a more organic and slower regeneration of tissue rather than the burst of positive energy of traditional healing. And while not necessarily good for nerve tisue (iunno) IH will heal ruptured blood vessels, incisions and accidental cuts, etc for critical minutes. He can also use it to complete the surgery, as stitches are so goushe.

Lemme know how many castings I need to use