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

Game Master imimrtl

Indeed Jiro, but it makes me wonder why it is still here. This place looks completely abandoned but for some ghost like creatures. Surely someone should have found these before. Either that or this stash is more recent and there are other sentient creatures about that we have not discovered yet.

Variel catalogs the items as well for what he could use but looks at the other first. Any of this stuff that you guys could use or are interested in?

"Just some of the shinies for selenia. But depends on what others want. Those sapphires look like rain's eyes, perhaps you might want to claim those"

Horatio waits to see what the results of Jiro's spell will reveal, but he glances at Variel, listening thoughtfully.

Amen-set watches the gear as well, but she turns to the Man and the Elf.

"In my homeland it is said that the tombs of ancient kings were often havens to the Undead - and surely they placed many curses upon the wealth which was buried there."

"Mayhap this treasure is equally cursed? If so, we should be wary of it," she says slowly.

Then she turns to watch Jiro as well, curious to know what the results of his spell will reveal.

Until the GM lets us know the status of Jiro's Detect Magic spell, I'm a little uncertain about claiming this stuff yet. Once we know more from the GM then I'm more ready to act on what we've found.

Sorry for the delay. Not magical emanations except for those from the magic items already detailed.

"If anyone would have happened upon this trove of treasure before, good Captain, then they shouldn't have been so foolish to leave them," he says with a smile. "And I say take your shinies, Seijiro, for this lady Selenia of yours. And as far as curses or undead, there is no need to fear such things, milady, we shall overcome!" he states with a gleam in his eye and a big smile. He then aids in gathering the items up.

Rajah is totally unconcerned. No worries here. :)

"..And as far as curses or undead, there is no need to fear such things, milady, we shall overcome!" he states with a gleam in his eye and a big smile. He then aids in gathering the items up.

Amen-set smiles brightly at Rajah and bows her head in a gracious thanks to his response.

Horatio looks at the others for a moment, then ponders the Bag of Holding.

"Jiro-san - is there something in the bag already?" he asks, curious to know what - if anything - is in it.

"If not, maybe we could take the loot and put it in the sack? It doesn't seem like there's much use for most of it now, unless anyone wants the armor?"

He thinks for a moment.

"I know the scrolls might be useful later for selling, but they might also be equally useful for sprucing this place up - once we get things taken care of, that is," he adds, then lets the others decide what they want to do.

For now, I'd vote that the scrolls might be used for party loot to fix up the fort and pier later. As for the rest, he'll happily just take his cut of it later...

Once we get back to the ship with this we can divide it all equally with what we still have in the hold. However if anyone can make use of hte items themselves then please speak up and claim them now. The armor looks particularly fine for those unaccustomed to heavier armors.

AMen I am likewise not worried about curses but those that placed them if they are still here.

Following Rajah's thought Variel moves in and grabs some shinies not worried about any curse at the moment and throws them to Jiro. [b]Hear you go my good man. Make your woman happy. I will likewise follow your advice and take some of the sapphires for Rain.

Will get the loot list updated tonight. Until then grab what you want.

Seijiro happily pockets the fire opals, though in time he won't want or need them all, just a few... "Thankee, Variel... I'm sure I can have something pretty made for her from these. Those three matched sapphires should make a pretty ring and pair of earrings, or just one large ring." He grins at VAriel... and makes no other claims on any of the treasure.

Seijiro looks inside the bag, tries to discover if there's anything already inside... He'll feel around if he can't see anything.

Examining the bag, you see something strange. It seems to have three flaps that each lay over the other. Opening the largest strap shows you a normal bag of holding, opening the middle strap reveals a magical compartment that seems quite cold within, Think like a portable refrigerator, the third space opens to a ladder that descends into darkness. Should you go down, it opens into a large tent-like area of the same color and pattern as the bag material. it looks somewhat like this.

This is a small extradimensional space that you can use as you like.

sweet

Seijiro looks in each of the sections of the bag, and chuckles when he discovers the middle cold section. "That could come in handy if we have anything that needs to be preserved. Fish that isn't salted .. yum!" Then he discovers the ladder and climbs down... he wanders about in the open space and explores it all before climbing out again... "You've all got to see this! it's amazing!"

Variel approaches the bag and looks down at Jiro in the bottom. When Jiro climbs out Variel nods his appreciation. That is some trick but I might wait a bit till we get back to the ship before I explore it a bit more. I don't want to be down there should those animate dreams come back. We can dump everything though down there in the meantime as we keep searching this place.

Where to next?

Seijiro recovers his haversack, which he did NOT take inside the bag with him, and lifts the bag, hefting it on his other shoulder... "I guess I'll carry both unless someone else wants to carry the new bag."

AMen I am likewise not worried about curses but those that placed them if they are still here.

Amen-set bows her head respectfully, and says no more on the matter.

When they examine the bag, Horatio is surprised as the others, assuming only that it might have some strange oddments in it, if anything.

"That could come in handy if we have anything that needs to be preserved. Fish that isn't salted .. yum!"

Horatio's eyes widen appreciatively.

"I'm with you on that, Jiro-san, though I wouldn't mind a good, fresh cheese, or butter," he says with a grin.

Then he discovers the ladder and climbs down... he wanders about in the open space and explores it all before climbing out again... "You've all got to see this! it's amazing!"

Horatio waits for the others to go below and explore. When they return, he listens to what they discover.

That is some trick but I might wait a bit till we get back to the ship before I explore it a bit more. I don't want to be down there should those animate dreams come back. We can dump everything though down there in the meantime as we keep searching this place.

Horatio's eyes widen at that, then he pulls on his lip thoughtfully.

"Is that possible?" he says, suddenly thinking about what Variel said.

"What I mean is - that's a private place to live in comfort, with a place to store food for some time without spoiling. But - as you said - it's a place of another Plane or dimension..."

"As those Dreams haunt the beings in this Plane, if we were to go into that space - into that other dimension - wouldn't that mean that the dreams couldn't effect us, unless they also entered that Plane? I mean - it's a whole different Plane of existence, I'm just not sure what harm they could do to us if we were in there, other than harming the bag itself..."

Amen-set looks at him quizzically and Horatio continues.

"It's just that - if I were here, being pursued by monsters or these evil dreams - maybe I'd load up the cold area with fresh food, then go down there and hide from them? It would be fairly dull, I guess, but it would be safer for a person if they were alone - impervious to any attack, unless someone found the bag itself and knew what it was and tried to damage it... But if those Dreams didn't know it, then I'd say it would be a perfect place for a lone person to hide from those Dreams..."

"Is that possible?" he asks the others.

As he waits for an answer, something else occurs to him.

The symbols were for Gluttony - surely the cold part of the bag would hold dainties for a glutton - it indicated Vanity, and the room was sumptuous indeed - the symbols were also for Lust and Sloth and others... that room would afford the opportunity for those elements as well. Indeed, that space may be a fine place to hide, yet it may also be linked to the symbols we saw...

Horatio will make a Linguistic Check to try to recognize the nature of the Symbols they saw earlier - what language they were, or at least maybe what culture made them.

"While I'm at it, did anyone else recognize the language that those symbols were written in?" he asks the group, curious to their nature.

Linguistic Check -
1d20 + 8 ⇒ (11) + 8 = 19

EDIT: If anyone wants to do an Aid check, I won't mind :)

Shaking his head, "Not me, my good man. But this helm and gloves might come in quite the handy," he nods as he examines them.

ling: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (3) + 8 = 11 wow just barely enough to aid.

"not really sure, maybe something too foreign or ancient to know?"

Seijiro admires the elven chain for a moment, then shakes his head. "Light and supple, but still too much for me, I think."

Variel turns to Horatio and expounds on what he meant earlier. I believe you are correct Horatio. What I meant is that I don't want t be down there if thy come back up here to attack you. We had enough of a fight already and I don't want to get separated again.

Turning to Rajah, As far as I am concerned if no one else is claiming them then they are all yours.

The language is Ancient Thassilonian.

Horatio ponders the mystery of the language, and with Jiro's mentioning of its antiquity, something clicks in his thinking...

"Banzai, Jiro-san," he says with a grin, then turns to the others.

"The language is an ancient version of Thassilonian," he says.

Quickly Taking 10 on all knowledge Checks and then share what I know...

"The Thassilonian's worshiped a goddess named Lissala - a goddess of runes and magic... A lawful goddess, but very evil," he adds, thinking of the runes they saw and their meaning.

He rubs his hand on his chin absently.

"From what I remember from my history, Lissala was an Azlanti goddess, too... But the Alzant were destroyed ages ago after something to do with the Starstone..." he adds.

At that, Amen-set's eyes widen, though she says nothing and waits for the others to speak.

Variel turns to Horatio and expounds on what he meant earlier. I believe you are correct Horatio. What I meant is that I don't want t be down there if thy come back up here to attack you. We had enough of a fight already and I don't want to get separated again.

Horatio nods his head.

"I understand completely... But I guess what I was also wondering - could it be that this was used for someone living here for that very purpose? Damned if I didn't look for any tracks in the dust getting down here, but if that's possible - maybe we'll find someone coming back to this piece soon... or maybe not," he adds, then shrugs.

"Either way, it sounds pretty handy!"

"From what I remember from my history, Lissala was an Azlanti goddess, too... But the Alzant were destroyed ages ago after something to do with the Starstone..." he adds.

Starstone...

Amen-set continues to listen to the others - but suddenly her mind turns to the mysterious box which they had discovered earlier - and its contents...

let me know what you guys want to do. Great RP right now! Oh also...one more thing...Not really important but...

let me know what you guys want to do. Great RP right now! Oh also...one more thing...Not really important but...

Do we take care of that now, or do we need to bed down for the night in-game, first?

Horatio glances around the room at the others, but says nothing, curious to know what they had to say.

After a moment he shrugs.

"Well, at this point I feel like we're not getting much done now... You guys want to go back to the ship and crash out for the night?"

Despite his comment, it's still mid-afternoon, yet he seems eager to return to the ship for some reason.

Amen-set glances at Horatio and her lips purse as she continues to consider what Horatio had said earlier about the history of the runes... and the history of those who made them.

Variel pauses and looks at Horatio quizzically. You know that is a thought. But how long could someone stay in there? We ran into that assassin that needed the bottle of air to survive. Would the same be needed for this space? I do not know.

Considering the other topic that Horatio is debating, I would think we could continue exploring before we head back to the ship. If we need to rest though before leveling...If you think in we need to check in on the ship though quickly we can. Let them know what we found and give them a heads up that ghosts and giant squids are around.

Variel pauses and looks at Horatio quizzically. You know that is a thought. But how long could someone stay in there? We ran into that assassin that needed the bottle of air to survive. Would the same be needed for this space? I do not know.

Horatio nods slowly at that.

"The air thing is a good point - I forgot about that... But I'm not really an expert on Planes... but here's another question - Planes of existence are separate from ours, that said - what about time?"

"What I mean is; if we spent an hour in that realm would we come back to find an hour has passed here, or a day - or maybe no time at all?" he asks.

I have no idea at all, but this idea does intrigue me. It makes me think of Narnia for some reason, and how time passage worked there. Is this even a possibility in the rules? I don't honestly know, but it got me curious is all...

Considering the other topic that Horatio is debating, I would think we could continue exploring before we head back to the ship. If we need to rest though before leveling...If you think in we need to check in on the ship though quickly we can. Let them know what we found and give them a heads up that ghosts and giant squids are around.

He shrugs helplessly.

"I honestly don't know... I mean, the fact is between me shooting this thing," he says, patting his hand on the butt of his pistol "and the roars of that 'thunder lizard' thing outside crashing about, and all the fighting we've already done here - I don't know; I figure that any living creature in a two mile radius that could be a threat to us might be coming in to check things out and see who we are and what we've been doing..."

"At this point it's like we're wandering from room to room, trying to make enough noise so that we manage to tempt whatever's crawling around to poke it's head up so we can either befriend it or kill it."

"Hell, why do you think I kept running off? I was just trying to get whatever may still be hiding in this joint to pop up so we could deal with it, one way or the other..."

He frowns and shakes his head.

"I don't know... If this fort is still dangerous then it's sure as hell taking it's time doing anything. I mean, what are we supposed to do; keep pushing from room to room in this fort until every single place is judge "clear" and we can then get the rest of the lads? Ah, who the hell knows?" he adds.

He glances around the room, his thoughts tacking to more pragmatic options.

"I do know one thing - we're on a tight time schedule. If we have the chance, I'd like to get a survey team down those ruined docks and check the fathoms to see how shallow it is... Also, if we've got the ability I'd not mind sending some sort of aerial scout, or spell, and figure out what those ruins we saw on the north side of the island were, among other stuff."

"Point is - if we're supposed to keep searching this fort; then let's get it done, you know? And if not, we can at least go back to the ship and let the lads know how we're doing so far. But if there's other options, I guess I'm open to them - I just can't think of any..."

about using the extradimensional space to hole up in, if no one stays out to watch over the satchel, anyone could pick it up and walk off with it (and us inside)... not to mention the haversack and any other extradimensional spaces would have to be left outside as well... just sayin'

about using the extradimensional space to hole up in, if no one stays out to watch over the satchel, anyone could pick it up and walk off with it (and us inside)... not to mention the haversack and any other extradimensional spaces would have to be left outside as well... just sayin'

A very valid point. But I just re-read Treasure Island again after watching Treasure Planet last week, and I kept thinking if I was stranded on a deserted island like Ben Gunn then that would be a pretty good place to hole up in. Nothing but random animals - and they wouldn't mess with a bag laying on the ground - especially one hidden so well as this.

Also, I'm not really planning on hiding in the bag myself, but I really was hoping that the GM would give us a heads-up on if the bag itself had its own time/space in it.

Also, I'm seriously considering having Horatio take out his ink pen and write "T.A.R.D.I.S." on the bag, unless anyone has an issue with that :)

You can take the level before resting. Don't worry about it this time.

You can take the level before resting. Don't worry about it this time.

As Horatio studies the others, he glances the bag and tries to piece things together about this mystery...

Knowledge: Planes
1d20 + 9 ⇒ (14) + 9 = 23

"I'm not sure but this seems more akin to a tiny demiplane rather than just a regular extradimensional space... I could be wrong, and I think it might take some exploring or experimentation, but I suspect it is more than just a fancy bag of holding... In other words; that there is a constant state of atmosphere within it's confines..." he says to the others.

He rubs his chin thoughtfully as he stares at the bag, thinking of similar stories relating to these sorts of things, of course - such stories were always more akin to tall tales or legends - and now it seems that they are all experiencing such tales and legends in real life!

Well, this is just another fine myth we've gotten ourselves into...

"I wonder if it's possible to pull the bag in on itself so you don't have to worry about someone walking off with it while you're inside, but contemplating the whole idea of it and how that might work is making my brain hurt. I will leave it to the more knowledgeable among you to figure that one out."

"I wonder if it's possible to pull the bag in on itself so you don't have to worry about someone walking off with it while you're inside, but contemplating the whole idea of it and how that might work is making my brain hurt. I will leave it to the more knowledgeable among you to figure that one out."

Horatio gives Jiro a grin and nods.

"Yeah, I know what you mean."

Glancing around he scratches his chin absently.

"Well, if we're not going to rest, maybe we should continue to just move room to room until we've discovered everything there is to discover."

"Even if we wiped this place clean of threats - and I'm not saying we have - the fact is that there's a lot of things that are worth exploring if we're going to make this place our own," he adds.

Horatio has no problem moving on to the next room, but for a change of pace, he's not going to run off without the others :)

Variel adjusts back to the conversation at hand. I think we should just put the rest of these items in the pack and keep exploring. There is a lot of area left in the fort in explored and who knows how many other areas with treasure we might find. However if it is a demiplane like you are thinking then anything or anyone that can plane shift would be able to go in and out. I wonder if those dreams can do that?

As for someone living in this bag...well once we take it with us we are sure to find that person once they come after us to claim it back.

Not a preference of where we go so if someone wants to lead Variel will go with them.

Variel adjusts back to the conversation at hand. I think we should just put the rest of these items in the pack and keep exploring. There is a lot of area left in the fort in explored and who knows how many other areas with treasure we might find. However if it is a demiplane like you are thinking then anything or anyone that can plane shift would be able to go in and out. I wonder if those dreams can do that?

As for someone living in this bag...well once we take it with us we are sure to find that person once they come after us to claim it back.

Horatio nods in agreement about Variel's recommendation to continue, also eager to make sure the fort has been cleared of threats and they can move to the next step.

As for the comments about the Dream creatures, he is equally unsure of their powers. For now, it seems that they shall deal with that issue when it comes up.

As for the bag, at this point he feels like it could have many practical uses, but though discussing the nuances of various planes seems - at least to him personally - a fun activity, it is clear that sort of thing would be best done when they had some actual leisure time.

Horatio glances at the rooms.

"These chambers seem to be pretty much cleaned out of threats."

"I'd recommend we go back upstairs and hit the two rooms in this building we had not yet explored - (they're still covered with gray boxes on the map) - then move to the building near the western wall and continue building to building."

So for now, basic Dungeon Crawl protocol? In this case I'm guessing our Marching Order is having Jiro on point to search for traps; followed by Variel who can move up for combat; followed by Rain (as she has reach with her weapon and can do combat), followed by Dhaavan as he's crunchy and can go in the middle for safety, followed by Horatio as he has ranged weapons; followed by Rajah as he can heal people, then Amen-set in the rear as she can also heal and is also crunchy?

With that in mind, Horatio will "Take 20" (or Take 10, or whatever) to go over all the entire chamber to search for Secret Doors, Passages or clues. He can't take 10 on Searching for Traps, though (at least, I don't think I can?) - just let me know.

Horatio's Perception via Taking 10 on Searching for clues, hidden treasure, secret passages in the basement (yes it will be slow, but better that then miss things) -

He'll also be using "Detect Magic" (as will Amen-set to speed things up) to make general sweeps for anything magical we may have missed.

Taking 10 via Perception to find any missing things: 26

Then we head up to explore the two uncovered rooms upstairs, and repeat the Take 10's for searches there, too.

Sounds like a plan Horatio. Onward and upward.

Sounds like a plan Horatio. Onward and upward.

Good times! Meanwhile, I actually meant the "eastern wall" in my earlier post as it looks like we covered the west side...

For now I guess we wait for the GM to respond!

"I'd recommend we go back upstairs and hit the two rooms in this building we had not yet explored - (they're still covered with gray boxes on the map) - then move to the building near the eastern wall and continue building to building."

So for now, basic Dungeon Crawl protocol? In this case I'm guessing our Marching Order is having Jiro on point to search for traps; followed by Variel who can move up for combat; followed by Rain (as she has reach with her weapon and can do combat), followed by Dhaavan as he's crunchy and can go in the middle for safety, followed by Horatio as he has ranged weapons; followed by Rajah as he can heal people, then Amen-set in the rear as she can also heal and is also crunchy?

I'm good with that marching order and also the search plan.

Rain has a +1 Mithral Shirt. Is the +1 glammered Elven Chain any better?

Sorry for delay, having some bad computer issues myself. Also having issues with my account on here again. Not sure what's going on but I keep getting kicked out of my account.

Inside the treasure room you find another hidden door on the opposite side from where you entered. This door leads to another hallway that leads to a blank masonry wall like the kind used in the foundations of large buildings. Arcane sigils line the stone of an unknown origin. They look similar to the symbols you saw at the top of the tower near the strange crystal. You think you may actually be at the base of the tower.

Variel detects magic and studies the sigils wondering if there is anything that he can decipher about them.

spellcraft 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (19) + 13 = 32
know arcana 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24

Inside the treasure room you find another hidden door on the opposite side from where you entered. This door leads to another hallway that leads to a blank masonry wall like the kind used in the foundations of large buildings. Arcane sigils line the stone of an unknown origin. They look similar to the symbols you saw at the top of the tower near the strange crystal. You think you may actually be at the base of the tower.

Note to Self - make sure to do the search stuff more frequently...

Horatio will cast "Detect Magic" to determine if there is any aura.

He will also use all his standard Knowledge Checks to learn more -

Taking 10 On Knowledge Skills

Arcana: 19
Dungeoneering: 19
Engineering: 27
Geography: 23
History: 19
Local: 21
Nature: 19
Nobility: 19
Planes: 19
Religion: 19

GM - whatever I discover via the Knowledge skills, just let the party know.

When me or Variel learn more, then I'll take my next action...

Rajah also looks upon the symbols and tries out his new 'hat' to see if he can understand them.

No idea if the helm works for this or not but might as well try. :)

Seijiro searches the area for traps and secret doors, sigils and such being a little out of wheelhouse.

perception: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (15) + 13 = 28

Rain and Neko move up behind Variel and Rain casting Detect Magic begins looking upon the sigils, hoping to aid Variel, as best as she can, in his endeavour. Neko casts her gaze about the area, lifting her nose and sniffing the air as she does.

Rain's Spellcraft to aid Variel: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10 (+2 to Variel for a total of 34)
Neko's Perception via scent: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (18) + 13 = 31

Given what Variel and Horatio have discovered, and given that the others are also searching, Amen-set seems generally confident that there is not much more to discover with searching. Therefore, she decides to try to "Aid" Horatio with the few Knowledge Checks she currently has...

Knowledge: Geography
1d20 + 5 ⇒ (8) + 5 = 13

Knowledge: Planes
1d20 + 5 ⇒ (4) + 5 = 9

Knowledge: Religion
1d20 + 5 ⇒ (20) + 5 = 25

EDIT: Failure on the "Planes" one, but Horatio's new bonus to Geography bumps it to a 25. Also, it seems Horatio is now aiding her, giving her a Knowledge Religion of 27 - with a natural 20 to boot.

The language is Ancient Cyclopsean. They are magical runes of strength, fortitude and protection for the foundation of the tower.

Seijiro and Horatio also sees that there is no trap but has detected a concealed door.

Seijiro inspects the door and shows it to Variel... "Maybe we should check this out, Variel-sama."

Variel nods to Jiro to proceed. Keep on going Jiro. I will be right behind you should you need anything. We need to explore everything in this keep to make sure it is safe before we start on the repair work.

Horatio and Amen-set will continue their place in the marching order as Jiro leads Variel into the next room.

GM - what is behind the concealed door?

Horatio and Amen-set will continue their place in the marching order as Jiro leads Variel into the next room.

GM - what is behind the concealed door?

Horatio glances at the Runes thoughtfully.

"These runes are of the Cyclopsean language - they stand for Strength, Fortitude and Protection."

"I would guess that they were etched into the stonework by whatever race created the original structure... I would further guess this is good news to us, given that if we manage to clean out the hash walking around this place then these runes may give this place extra advantages from any attack..."

He doesn't mention the pirate lord Harrigan, but it is clear by his tone that this threat is on his mind. It is no secret that they now "own" the island formally, and have been charged with cleaning up the place, but once they've done the "heavy lifting" of getting the place presentable, it would be unwise to neglect defenses from those who would try to take it from them.

As Jiro takes Variel with him, Horatio will pause and use "Detect Magic" on the runes...

He's using that to specifically gauge the power of the spells used to fashion them (i.e. - what bonus specifically, and what radius, and so on). Like, is this something as mundane as a "Bless" spell with permanence, or is something far more potent?

Basically looking for "Aura Strength" and "Lingering Aura" to try to gauge the potency of the runic power - also; using Knowledge: Arcana at 19 to learn more if applicable...

Seijiro will cautiously open the concealed door and try to shed some light on what is beyond it... he has low light vision... and the open door should let some light in

Flynn you would guess that the runes are used to increase the natural strength of the stone foundations and to provide a means of magical energy to the crystal at the top of the tower. The power is quite potent, well above any of your magical levels.

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

Opening the door, you see a circular room, dimly lit from the light from the hall you are in. Collapsed rubble fills this dusty cellar, spilling from the east and northwest walls. Dozens of pale quartz crystals lie scattered among the rocks, and several more decorate the perimeter of the room. A single carved column supports the twenty-foot high ceiling overhead. The secret door swings open the rest of the way on it's own as a voice echos from around the room.

"THE LIVING?! ... The living?! ... The Living?! ..."

From another direction the voice issues,
"WHY HAVE THEY COME?! ... Why have they come?! ... Why have they come?! ..."

From still another direction, the voice issues again, THEY MUST GET IT! ... They must get it! ... They must get it! ..."

Oooh, look... dilithium crystals! We could power our ship for warp drive!

living? aye, that we are... and.... um.. what must we get?"

Seijiro casts detect magic and scans the room.

Variel sees the crystals on the round but before he has a chance to inspect them closer he hears the voice echoing off the walls. Clutching his cutlass tighter he steps up next to Jiro and waits for a response as he asks as well, Who are you? Show yourself.

Go down, you blood red roses, go down...

Step right up men and put down yer mark! Looking for men and women who want a life of hard labor, long hours, and almost certain death at the end! If that sounds like you then the life of a Pirate might just be right for ye!

Campaign Guidelines

Posting: Minimum of 1-2 posts per day M-F. If you are going to be gone for more than a day please let me know so I can NPC you and move the game along.

Maturity: This campaign WILL have some mature content in it. I am not planning on going over the top but executions, lashings, and other such unpleasantness will be occurring. Depending upon how things go, it may even be your character that is subjected to things like this. I'm not overly harsh but I don't pull punches either.

Play Nice: Even though this is a pirate game, I'd like to keep Player vs Player conflict to a minimum. There are more than enough NPC's for you to hate and fight with so you shouldn't need to worry about each other.

Character Creation (crunchy bits):

Character Level: 1st
Race/Class: Core, APG, UC, UM, ARG (no custom races)
Abilities: 20-pt Buy
Alignment: Any non-evil and no Lawful Good, I will accept 1 Lawful Evil so long as they can play well with others.
Wealth: Average by class
Character Traits: Two traits plus one Campaign Trait (from S&S Players Guide)

I currently have 3, maybe 4, slots preselected. As such I am looking for 2-3 characters to round out the crew.

The current characters are:
Elven Freebooter Ranger
Human Buccaneer Gunslinger
Tattoo Infernal Bloodline Sorcerer (Unknown Race currently)
Potentially one more but no response yet on race or class

Character Submission:

1. Good writing and a good backstory are paramount with these submissions.
2. You do not need to have a fully detailed sheet or profile (It won't hurt but it won't replace a good well written backstory)
3. As has been done well in the past, please answer the following questions (None of these questions will hurt your chances. They just give me a feel for your character):

1. What position do you see yourself eventually in on a ship?
2. How do you feel about piracy in general? (This includes stealing, killing, plundering, etc.)
3. Which campaign trait are you selecting and why?

Last but certainly not least, I have seen this used to great effect and it is a bit of fun while waiting for recruitment to close but after you submit the basics out of character, start RPing with each other so I can see about group dynamic and your writing style. The scene to RP in is the night you are all taken from the bar in Port Peril. The music is blaring and the night is raucous!

That's about it! I'm really looking forward to seeing what everyone comes up with!

Sounds interesting! I'll try to come up with an application, most likely a druid.

I would be interested in joining your Campaign. Though I must let you know, I am new to this type of game, and PF in general... I am in a campaign with my friends, so I do know the VERY basics of the game, and how to create my own character and things.

Not sure how to do a back story, and am not to good at RP.... I am still learning things. Also, this will be my first online campaign, so you may need to kind of let me know how it works. Thank you.

Dotting for interest I may just use one of my aliases (from another S&S game) unless that one pick back up again -- was going very slow after the first couple of posts

I would be interested in joining your Campaign. Though I must let you know, I am new to this type of game, and PF in general... I am in a campaign with my friends, so I do know the VERY basics of the game, and how to create my own character and things.

Not sure how to do a back story, and am not to good at RP.... I am still learning things. Also, this will be my first online campaign, so you may need to kind of let me know how it works. Thank you.

It's not difficult. I played on an Exalted PbP and it's fairly easy; you just need to create a well thought out paragraph with what your character is saying and doing. Rolls, in my experiences, were done at the request of who was running the story and whenever a player thought it was something of interest for her character.

Backstories, I am guessing, are how your character grew up and why she became an adventurer.

Profile to be made soon:

Assuming someone at the bar asked about him...

I am Suuktidi, of de Bekyar (Mwangi). When I jus' a lad, anotha' Bekyar, he come to mah village an' he take de lads. He take us to work on boats. Big boats. I not see mah village since. On de boat, dey see I good wit' mah hands. Dey make me to work with de carpenter. Dat carpenter, he teach me to fix boats. He also teach me to fix sailors. But mos' of all, he teach me to respect Papa Gozreh. I learn. I learn good. Later, carpenter dies of infection. Now I carpenter of de boat. I work hard. De captain, he like me. He let me lead prayers to Papa Gozreh. He even pay me some, even dough I be a slave. I work for da captain 4 years. We take much plunder. Last month, I save enough coin to buy freedom. De captain, he put me in port here dis morning. In da morning, I go to find mah village. I go to find da black'eart who take me from mah village. If one ting I learn from da captain, it be dat de ocean has sharks an' de ocean has fish. Sharks live. Fish die. I will be a shark.

This is the IC, quick version. Suuktidi is a cleric of Gozreh with the Weather and Animal domains. He has worked as a ship's carpenter and surgeon. He has no problem with piracy...he knows "sharks live, fish die." He took the "ship's surgeon" trait. I have a character bio sheet that I've made for myself. I'd like to email it to you if you'll share your email. It's a word document. It will have much more detail about who Suuktidi is. And I'll get that profile up asap for character mechanics.

For anyone that needs it, here is a character survey I use for my characters to flesh them out a bit and get the proverbial juices flowing. This is not a requirement and is just here for help to any who need it.

Dotting for interest since the S&S game I had joined seems to have petered out. I'll be using Henk here and will do a little more fleshing out of history and take a stab at your survey. Henk is a harpooner and has spent long days at sea hunting whales.

Here is Suuktidi. Again, a lot of this info is pretty basic. I have a more detailed thing written up to share.

Ok. Here is Henk for this came. Stats are in the profile. I'll answer athe questions you have here, please tell me if I need to add more.

1. Henk is a bit unsure right now about future positions. He is wary of taking any officer role(Especially captain.) since he has seen the bloody aftermath of mutinies and doesn't want that to happen to him. Overly cruel captains will make him reconsider any neutrality.
2. As for piracy, Henk has few problems with makign off with soemone elses's property at the point of a sword. he knows that fighting and killing is part of piracy and will cut down anyone who tries the same with him. Henk will take surrenders and despises rapists and those who kill for the joy of it.
3. Buccaneer's Blood. Henk's father was both pirate and whaler and often used his modified ship as cover for piracy and a source of income when needed. He raided some ships and gained ome measure of infamy which he passed alogn to Henk.

Who am I? Henk. Just call me Henk. Son of a whaler and oppurtunist. Born in a seaside town and brought on board by my Ma when they had to go out for huntss, learned to walk and swim before I could speak and held a harpoon as soon as my fingers could wrap around one. pa gave me his harpoon here and I'm hoping I'll have the chance to pass it along. Of course, more than likely that I'll be shark food before that happens. hehe.

Hope that works out okay – if not, let me know!

I'm developing a Human Druid (Shark Shaman) and will post when I have him more completed.

Ok. Here is Henk for this came. Stats are in the profile. I'll answer athe questions you have here, please tell me if I need to add more.

1. Henk is a bit unsure right now about future positions. He is wary of taking any officer role(Especially captain.) since he has seen the bloody aftermath of mutinies and doesn't want that to happen to him. Overly cruel captains will make him reconsider any neutrality.
2. As for piracy, Henk has few problems with makign off with soemone elses's property at the point of a sword. he knows that fighting and killing is part of piracy and will cut down anyone who tries the same with him. Henk will take surrenders and despises rapists and those who kill for the joy of it.
3. Buccaneer's Blood. Henk's father was both pirate and whaler and often used his modified ship as cover for piracy and a source of income when needed. He raided some ships and gained ome measure of infamy which he passed alogn to Henk.

Who am I? Henk. Just call me Henk. Son of a whaler and oppurtunist. Born in a seaside town and brought on board by my Ma when they had to go out for huntss, learned to walk and swim before I could speak and held a harpoon as soon as my fingers could wrap around one. pa gave me his harpoon here and I'm hoping I'll have the chance to pass it along. Of course, more than likely that I'll be shark food before that happens. hehe.

Henk appears to be a man right out of his youth but is hardened by the salt and sea. Dirty blond hair is roughly cut and his lgihtly stubled face has a scar along his jawline. Not looking like someone tried to slit his throat, but perhaps an accident.

He has a brown shirt rolled up to the elbows and gloves that are worn more for protection for his hands rather than anthing else. Tan pants tucked into his boots complete the wardrobe and he has a cutlass sheathed at his waist. Next to him is a backpack with a chainshirt folded on it along with other sundry equipment.

@Suuktidi: Do you have family you are going back to at your village? Also thanks for the background stuff, it really gave me a better impression of Suuktidi's history and personality. Also if you could answer the three questions that would be awesome!

@Henk: Good so far and thanks for answering the questions. Why are you looking for work? Why aren't you working with your father? What happened? A little bit more background will help a lot.

@Sir Jolt: Looking forward to seeing it!

@Suuktidi: Do you have family you are going back to at your village? Also thanks for the background stuff, it really gave me a better impression of Suuktidi's history and personality. Also if you could answer the three questions that would be awesome!

@Henk: Good so far and thanks for answering the questions. Why are you looking for work? Why aren't you working with your father? What happened? A little bit more background will help a lot.

@Sir Jolt: Looking forward to seeing it!

Henk is looking for work because his father decided to take a tough-love approach to Henk coming of age and said he needed to leave the ship that his father ran. This was to avoid neoptism and riding on his father's status rather than standing on his own two feet. Henk of course wasn't abandoned and his father passed along the family harpoon and made sure Henk's purse was full before dropping him off at the harbor. "Come back to The Shackles once you get yourself a new life, and hopefully a wife, my boy. This creaky knee needs a young'in to bounce on it."

@Henk: Thanks that helps. If you want to walk into the bar and have a seat there is a table open.

Henk looks up at the battered sign above the bar and shouldered his heavy pack. Da was right, can't be running some ship just because he stabbed some whales and plundered some merchents. Just gotta wonder what is gunna happen. Henk sighed and stolled in.

Looking around, he noticed a table had an empty chair and flumped down on it, makign sure his pack and harpoon were close by. Oy girl! He waved to a serving wench. Ale and stew if ya got it.

Apologies - here are the answers to the questions formally.

1. What position do you see yourself eventually in on a ship?

Ship's Surgeon.

2. How do you feel about piracy in general? (This includes stealing, killing, plundering, etc.)

Piracy - like any action - is judged as good or bad via the situation. For example - the only difference between a "pirate" and a "privateer" is - legally - letters of marquee.

As for more esoteric questions regarding my stance on killing and plundering?

I am not excited to kill; but I will kill if necessary to protect my ship, my crew-mates, my friends and my family.

As for when killing is necessary? The necessities of killing are best dictated by circumstance.

Meanwhile - regarding plunder and other spoils? If on the seas I am ordered to attack a vessel or a town - it is only fitting that the rewards of the vessel or town be given to the victor.

3. Which campaign trait are you selecting and why?

I have selected "Ship's Surgeon".

As to why?

As the son of a priestess who was martyred for her faith when I was young, even now I have a strong desire to make my mother proud. I know that following in her footsteps would accomplish this goal - even though I myself am not particularly religious. I never forget the values of my mother and her goddess - even so, I also remember also the value of a good education, which was extremely important to what little family I had.

Having never known my father, after my mother's murder I was then raised by my uncle - a man of many talents who worked in the lumber yards in Sargava where I and my mother lived. He was a stern caretaker and insisted that I have a better life then his, always pushing me to excel.

My uncle and I survived over the years thanks to the earnings we made with various odd jobs until I grew older. When I reached my mid teens I began to save in earnest what money I could so that I could formally study at Eleder's Academy for Alchemy and Medicine.

During the summers I earned coin as a fisherman; and during Yuletime I would help citizens of the city with repair work on their homes to earn coin for schooling until I finished my time with the academy.

Having recently graduated with my degree as a Surgeon: First Class, I am regrettably left with hardly any funds to my name. With barely the clothes on my back and some meager gear on my person, I have made my way to a local bar to seek refreshment and perhaps the chance for employment.

@Horatio: Excellent, thank you!

@Henk: A pretty serving girl with red hair and a saucy smile comes over and sets down an ale and a plate of a spicy fish stew. At the table with you is a young man in a dark frock coat smoking a pipe. The serving wench looks over at him and says Care for another glass of port, sir?

FYI Horatio is one of the preselected players.

Henk nods and grins at the serving girl, his eyes wandering up and down as he digs into his stea. Dern good to get something hot and filling tonight.

Henk gives a nod to the man sitting next to him after the girl leaves. Evenin.

@Horatio: Excellent, thank you!

@Henk: A pretty serving girl with red hair and a saucy smile comes over and sets down an ale and a plate of a spicy fish stew. At the table with you is a young man in a dark frock coat smoking a pipe. The serving wench looks over at him and says Care for another glass of port, sir?

FYI Horatio is one of the preselected players.

”Thank you madam; but – apologies, I feel that one glass is all that I need at such an hour,” I respond to the barmaid with a slightly awkward smile.

Glancing to the well armed and geared man sitting down next to me I take another pull of smoke and watch him order his meal and drink.

Hmm… a full pack; and look there – a water skin – in a tavern? This is a lad that means to travel or recently come to land. If he has come to land, then it is likely that he may have news of work – or perhaps not. In any case – circumstance has thrust us together, perhaps I should seize upon it?

”Beg pardon sir – you’ve come recently to this tavern, clearly; is it for work or pleasure? I confess readily that I seek employment on a vessel. Do you know of any such ships that would seek skilled laborers?”

Henk turns to his adresser. Work, and maybe a little pleasure. Henk grins at the retreating backside of the maid. Recently got off a ship to find something. Gotta find new ships so I don't get all rusty doing something for too long. As for work for yerself, You might check the docks for the 'Whale's Doom' whaling boat that might be suitable for what you want to do.

1. Suuktidi would aspire to be a ship's carpenter/ship's surgeon. The S&S Player's Handbook says the two go hand-in-hand so I've built him to do both.

2. Suuktidi has been "raised" on a pirate ship. Piracy is a part of his life. To him it's a matter of nature - predators feed on prey.

3. He took the Ship's Surgeon campaign trait because he was trained by a master carpenter who doubled as the ship's surgeon. He learned how to mend both ship and man under that tutelage.

Suuktidi did have family in his village - a father, Suuktari, and a mother, Mishka, grandparents, and uncles. His believes his father and uncles were killed in the raid that took the boys from their homes. He expects his grandparents would be dead by now anyway. He has hopes that his mother, Mishka, is still alive. He doesn't know the name of the slaver who ruined his life, but he intends to hunt the man like a boar.

Dotting for interest will have a elven magus up tomorrow.

Henk turns to his adresser. Work, and maybe a little pleasure. Henk grins at the retreating backside of the maid. Recently got off a ship to find something. Gotta find new ships so I don't get all rusty doing something for too long. As for work for yerself, You might check the docks for the 'Whale's Doom' whaling boat that might be suitable for what you want to do.

"Whaling? Nay - that is not of my interest,” I respond, thinking of the time when I saw whalers during my youth.

The fine fountain of water that would spray forth from the blowhole and darken the sky as it obfuscated the dawn. The sudden thrust of their bodies shattering the hulls of the longboats and the force of their collapse back into the sea – crushing boat and man alike under their weight. And always the presence of the sharks which swam about like ravenous dogs, eager for the scraps of flesh and blood that would roil from the still fresh carcasses of the beasts that were butchered on the open sea.

Killing a man in clean combat was one thing perhaps – but the slaughter of such creatures seemed uncouth and unseemly – and not to my taste.

Smiling a bit, I continued.

”I confess that such action does hold draw for some men, perhaps - but for myself? I find there to be a certain coarseness to the butchery of animals when there are more prudent ways of gaining what rewards there may be drawn from rendering the fat of such beasts; no disrespect to you, sir. Every man must earn his bread, of course, and I do not begrudge any of the task of such labors,” I add, my eyes avoiding the presence of the well-used harpoon which lay propped against his chair.

”For myself – though whaling ships need skilled surgeon’s, it is true – I would rather put my services to the use of men with more noble causes.”

I lean in – somewhat conspiratorially.

”Sir – as a man versed in the sea, surely you are aware of the presence and encroachment of the scum from Cheliax who – from time to time – seek to cause unrest in our fair nation? Could it be doubted? Their own folk follow demons, ‘tis said – and often seek to do great harm to their neighbors,” I add with a vague gesture with my pipe – waving it somewhere northwards to suggest their imminent presence and encroachment on our waters.

”It is said that men of iron will guard these waters – at cost of a stern levy, 'tis is true – but it seems that it would be not only a wise course, but a clever one, to follow these men who would guard our waters, and; to seek to assist such sailors in the prevention of those who hail from Cheliax - a land governed by demons. For myself, I would seek such a vessel – and offer my service to such a captain as that,” I add the last somewhat emphatically.

Then, realizing I may have said too much, I lean back a bit, – and consider that the last comment a bit too sentimental, perhaps. However, after my mother passed and my uncle raised me I heard many times from him and his colleagues that the work we did in the lumber yards was to pay local captains for their protection against such evil as the scum from Cheliax.

It stirred my blood readily to ally with a noble captain as the one's who's legends were bandied about taverns and campsites – indeed; even one with a shadowed heart – surely, in time, he would show his true colors at the presence of such villainy. Then I could, with greater ease, lift steel as the captain would lead us in a charge take his crew to task in the duty of wiping clean the sea lanes of any enemy to my native country.

At least that was the thought that was greatest in my heart. Still – exposing such sentiment could be dangerous in such a place. Quickly I did what I could to conceal my true feelings.

”Besides,” I added with a bit of a grunt ”The pay would be far greater to serve with such men who can crush enemy ships and take what prizes they offer! Better that then wasting time trying to bandage impoverished sailors on a mere whaling ship, eh?” and offer my best effort at a boisterous laugh to accompany my grim jest.

Even so – a sailor is a sailor, be he whaler or privateer – therefore, do not laugh so easily at the agony of a dying man, no matter what his profession, for it is unseemly.

I hear the words in my head – my mother’s admonishment, perhaps – and do my best to keep that part of my mind from showing on my face.

I will have a character up tomorrow. Thinking of creating a samurai, or cleric. I don't think a samurai really fits the setting. Thanks.

I will have a character up tomorrow. Thinking of creating a samurai, or cleric. I don't think a samurai really fits the setting. Thanks.

What about wako? The samurai of the sea :)

If you will allow it lol. I have only ever played a Wizard, and Paladin. Interested in Samurai, and Magys, but don't have UM book yet.

Henk shrugs at the man's words. No stomach for whalen? Yer choice of course. Fighten against a whale be just like fighting a man many a time. Whales not all be gentle giants of the sea. A whole pack of orca be something that sends sharks fleeing.

At the mentain of Cheliax, I have heard of them. Them and their demon friends, selling yer soul to some hellspawn for power just isn't worth it. A hundred years if a man is lucky for an eternity in the pit? Henk makes a sign across his chrst. Give me a clean death at sea before I sign some hell paper.

As for guarding our waters? More like self preservation mixed with pride. Keeping the Cheliax out and The Shackles hell free is good sense for any man who doesn't have a heart as lack as the byss. Don't let that fool you though, many a pirate have a demon's heart, one doesn't become a pirate by being a noble man. Just make sure you watch yourself when you do sign on and keep your gear packed if you find yourself on the wrong ship.

Henk quaffs some more ale. Well anyway, here is to finding a captain who hans't lost his soul yet. Name is Henk by the way.

OKeys, dottin' fer interest.

I be in'a game already, but the DM went up an' disappeared on our crew a couple weeks gone by now an' I be loosin' hope o' them returnin'.

Am lookin' t' cast me eye afield t'seek adventure, spoils an' such.

Hope me postin' meets with the DM's want fer things. (^_^)

A tall, lithe Elf wanders into the tavern. Her blond mop of hair and tanned physique indicate a life spent under the sun. Her clothing seems to consist of little more than a shirt and skirt, though the handle of a large-ish sword does rise above her shoulder. A small back-pack might hold the rest of her earthly possessions.

She pads barefoot up to the bar, leans against the wood and her lips move in silent concentration as she reads the menu scrawled across the chalk-board there...eventually she seems to understand the goods on offer and leans back, looking over at the Bar-keep,

I'll be havin' a jug o' yer neatest Rum...an' perhaps be lookin' fer lodgin'." She says even as she turns and surveys the rest of the room and its occupants.

Oy Suny! Long tiem no see. Been watchin your exploits on the other S&S board.

Hee! (^_^) Hey-ya there! Aye, t'is fun. Though the Dm o' th' game up an' disappearin' in't the either dun't help nun a'tall! Hope things be swell fer ye an' yours! (^_^)

@Suuktidi: Thanks! That helps.

@Variel: That trait is fine. Looking forward to seeing what you come up with.

@Sunny: Good submission so far and great job on the survey. What class are you planning on? If I could get your answers to the three questions also that would be awesome.

@Rapth: Samurai are fine.

Ok here are the submissions so far.

Horatio Flynn: Human Gunslinger (Preselected)
Unnamed Tattoo Sorcerer (Preselected)
Unnamed Elven Ranger (Preselected)
Sunny Elven ???
Henk Human Fighter
Suuktidi Human Cleric of Gozreh
Sir Jolt's Druid (Shark Shaman)

Please let me know if I missed anyone.

Full name: Raina Taneththir, but I go by the name Rain.
Elf, Female Freebooter Ranger.
5'10", 110 lbs, Long, Dark Blue Hair, Fair Skin, Turquoise Eyes (my unusual hair and eye colouring come from an aquatic elf ancestor, so I am told). Tall, lithe, exotically pretty. Only child to an only child (my father), I am the single living reminder of my father in this world and my surviving grandparents treated me as special and raised me to understand life in its many guises. I grew up around craftsmen of boats, ships and sails since we lived in a fishing town.

1. What position do you see yourself eventually in on a ship? Sailing Master.
2. How do you feel about piracy in general? (This includes stealing, killing, plundering, etc.) In a perfect world, I would only steal and plunder from those wealthy enough to endure the loss. I enjoy the challenge. I will kill in order to protect myself, ship, crew-mates, family and friends. So, I will not kill for killing's sake or from a bloodthirsty heart. I do not relish the killing but understand its purpose and need in a dangerous world.
3. Which campaign trait are you selecting and why? Besmara's Blessing. My family were faithful folk and my father had been dead near six months. When I was still inside my mother Cristiel's womb, she and my paternal grandparents, Varyan and Eleniel Taneththir, sailed to the small island of Besmara's Throne to undertake a pilgrimage to the holy site of Queen Bes. It was the anniversary of my father's death. As they waited dockside for the ship to return them to Tempest Cay, my mother went into labor and delivered me right there upon the dock. My grandfather swore he saw a light soar overhead and careen into the deep waters of Besmara's Throne -- a good omen, he said, to anyone who would ask. I always felt a kinship with the ocean and with the Pirate Queen, Besmara, and believed a great destiny awaited me if I chose to answer its call.

@Rain: Excellent thank you!

Dreaming Warforged's application: Noche'WA, a Shoanti Oread Aquatic Druid.

Looking forward to your comments. I am away for a few days though, starting tomorrow, and will have a harder time posting.

Henk shrugs at the man's words. No stomach for whalen? Yer choice of course. Fighten against a whale be just like fighting a man many a time. Whales not all be gentle giants of the sea. A whole pack of orca be something that sends sharks fleeing.

At the mentain of Cheliax, I have heard of them. Them and their demon friends, selling yer soul to some hellspawn for power just isn't worth it. A hundred years if a man is lucky for an eternity in the pit? Henk makes a sign across his chrst. Give me a clean death at sea before I sign some hell paper.

As for guarding our waters? More like self preservation mixed with pride. Keeping the Cheliax out and The Shackles hell free is good sense for any man who doesn't have a heart as lack as the byss. Don't let that fool you though, many a pirate have a demon's heart, one doesn't become a pirate by being a noble man. Just make sure you watch yourself when you do sign on and keep your gear packed if you find yourself on the wrong ship.

Henk quaffs some more ale. Well anyway, here is to finding a captain who hans't lost his soul yet. Name is Henk by the way.

”Well met Hank. My name is Hora.. er… call me Doctor Flynn; well, no, actually I suppose “Flynn” will do just as well,” I add, feeling both my given name, and my title, somehow out of place in this establishment as I offer my hand to Hank.

To cover my embarrassment my mind instantly tacks course to the more academic element of my raising.

”And, as for whaling? You speak the truth – do not mistake me there – I’ve seen whales crush the hull of schooners with their heavy heads as they plow into them, and the slap of their tail can break a longboat into matchwood – aye, they are no peaceful beast, especially if riled. Even so – they are beasts, not men,” I add, a touch of intensity in my voice I try to push down a bit.

”Men have free will – and the choice to do good, or evil – that choice is in their power. They know, or should know – that if they are prepared to do great harm to another then it comes from that choice. A whale has no such education – it acts to protect itself and its mate or young – I do not fault an animal, or even a man, for that. And to kill a man who intends to do me murder does not overly vex me – yet to abuse or mistreat an animal seems a different issue – I find that a man unmasks a perversity in himself when he chooses to harm a beast. An animal, be it a dog or even a whale is only a simple creature that is without education or even the wits to know right from wrong – and yet is mistreated simply for a man’s personal amusement… though of course, hunting them - for the necessities of life - that is a different story,” I add hastily; reminding myself of his profession.

Swallowing down my longing look at his rich stew, I plow on in my comments, though.

”I agree on your point about those who would sell their souls to demon masters; yet I cannot agree with the issue of survival being the only reason to guard this place. There are some – though not all – who have roots here; who have history. Again, I am no idealist – but I refuse to believe that no captain who sails these waters, even if they should take “protection money” to watch the costs and harbors – has no sense of sentiment or consideration for the community he guards.”

”Surely there are captains who – knowing the danger of the armies of Cheliax and the wealth they can offer in bribes - are ambitious enough to accept those bribes rather then our own offers of coin for protection. But I have heard of none that succumb to these temptations. My heart tells me that though it is likely many of the men who ply these waters may in fact be cutthroats – or worse – even still; the essence of their heart cannot wholly be erased. Surely inside those who have not sold their souls to demons beats the heart of a man who has at the least a love for the place he calls his own, and will not suffer the domination of no other men?” I add, my speech growing somewhat lengthy.

Pausing a moment, I take a deep breath – I am not in a lecture at the academy; but a barroom sitting across from heavily armed men who have drank of deep spirits and may not be inclined to listen to such long words.

I shrug a bit at the words, smiling to take the edge off of such a long commentary.

My eyes flick up then as the door opens and they see the presence of a young female elf. Instantly my eyes are drawn to her; for she is a different quality of the females I have met or known, even in passing.

She has neither the fair aristocratic features of the “colonials” who live in Sargava, nor does she have the dark sensuality of the women of Mwangi. Her body is lithe and her skin looks like honeyed cream. A mop of golden hair shrouds her face somewhat – and she has little in the way of clothing.

I know little of elves – but what I studied in the academy (taking a course or two in “Elven” so I could learn more about these unique people), but to see one so close and so… bereft of modesty? It was indeed a bit of surprise.

My concentration was somewhat moved from Hank, and – despite my efforts – I couldn’t help my eyes as they traveled the trim lines of her small frame as she ordered a drink.

Knowing that I was without more food, and that a drink would do much to ease my tension this night (further it was my chance to celebrate graduation) – I determined I would order another drink.

”Apologies Hank – I think I will be getting something from the bar,” I add politely, and move up to the bartender.

Looking at the elf, and watching her lift the mug, I smile at the bartender.

”Greetings,” I say to him.

Looking out of the corner of my eye at the lady I add to the bartender ”Your pardon – but I, too shall order a tot of rum, if you would be so kind?”

I then turn to the elven lady and do my best to offer her a polite smile.

Um DM Immortal...which three questions would they be?

As fer class?

There be a method t'me madness. (^_~)

Much cheers to all.

Sunny holds the mug on both hands. Lifting the (Earthen ware?) vessel to her lips for what seem to be small sips, after which each is followed by a quick flick of her tongue to make sure all the Rum is had.

Island Elf (^_^)

As she leans against the bar her gaze wanders slowly around the room. Seeming just as interested in what ever holds the roof up as what lays about upon the floor. When one of the other patrons swaggers over to the counter and orders Rum, then turns and offers a smile to her Sunny instantly grins back. (^_^)

Submissions still open? You know I gotta throw my hat in on this one if there's a shot.

@Jonasty:

Definitely still open Jonasty and awesome to see you! They'll be open until probably friday or saturday.

@Sunny:

1. What position do you see yourself eventually in on a ship?
2. How do you feel about piracy in general? (This includes stealing, killing, plundering, etc.)
3. Which campaign trait are you selecting and why?

Dotting. Ill have a sea reaver barbarian probably

Henk shakes the hand that is offered. Pleased to meet you. When the attractive elf wanders in, Henk's eyebrows rise and he makes a low whistle. Hmm..Now that is a high quality streetlass. Henk nods at Flynn as he walks up and returns to his meal.

Noche'Wa has been sitting for a while now, sipping a soup that certainly did not grant the Formidably Maid its reputation.

Or perhaps it did...

He smiles at the sheer exoticism of the place. What they said was true... This is a great place to find a ship. I'll come back after my walk by the shore. It had been a while now that he didn't get a chance to walk on the edge between sand and sea, something that brought peace to him and reminded him of his mother. If I'm lucky, the moon will be out to great me. He takes a big swallow and is about to cough as he hears the Doctor talk about animals. He listens some more, then finds he mostly agree with the man.

As though he's heard his thoughts, the Doctor turns to face the Shoanti. The broad sculpted man smiles back, mostly covered in a simple woollen cloak: "Well met! Well met! Ah! Ah! Ah! Indeed, those poor beast often show more wisdom than us, and it's a waste to make them suffer. Unless of course we are hungry! And unless of course THEY are hungry! Ah! Ah! Ah! I am Noche'Wa. A pleasure!"

"Oh, and pass the soup..."

Sunny, I think he will need a first level version of your character.

Asked some questions @Sunny.....

*Giggles* I done answer them, silly! *Points back up thread*

So, there they be agin fer ye benefit. (^_^)

Much cheers to all!

My mistake Sunny thanks for clearing it up. Apparently I need to check my prescription lol.

Noche'Wa very well done.