and it's the captain's call wether or not to kill her, regardless, and we should know better, as a party, not to mouth off to the captain. or give him suggestions, or look at him funny...
The officer looks at Horatio with disgust before turning her attention to Rain and Dhaavan. Looking at Rain she says I am a Lieutenant in the Rahadoumi Merchant Marines. My rank should be sufficient for now. Turning to Dhaavan she says We have no intention of throwing our lives away needlessly Pirate and do not intend to give any more of an excuse for you to kill us.
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Those quick enough to spot it, Variel gives the woman a slight nod in honor of her stature and demeanor. Her actions also cause Variel to lower the pike and carry it more at ease then before. While not completely off guard, Variel will use nonlethal force from now on if warranted against the woman and her crew.
I look at the sky for a moment then I glance at her.
”You were dead and I brought you back from death. That didn’t inspire thanks from you, that’s fine. Perhaps you think that the men who planned this attack will be more generous with you then I was. You might be right; they might be much kinder then me. But somehow I doubt it. Instead, I assume that if you’re someone important then they’ll merely ransom you back to your people for sizeable coin. But you don’t ransom something unless you have control over it - some people call that ownership - others don't.”
”If you don’t like my choice of words – if you presume that my attempts of helping you merit such a filthy response - because of what you perceived to be an insult – well, that’s your choice, too.”
I shrug, then turn the others of the boarding party.
”Apologies, all,” I say sincerely, feeling genuine regret at this point ”my efforts with this person have failed, and I let you all down. I sincerely didn’t mean to – and I confess I tried my best to make something of a difficult situation. In any case, those efforts were unsuccessful. Bad luck, I suppose; but then, these things happen.”
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There is no apology Flynn. Just learn more from your failures than your victories and you will be better off in the future. Besides, if you could really bring someone back from the dead that would be impressive and should warrant more appreciations think.
While we are waiting for everything to settle down, Variel will stat casting prestidigitation cleaning up the effects of the conflict on himself and those that wish for it. Once down with the companions, he will extend this offer to the prisoners as well if they want. Forced into to fighting you to save my own life and that of my friends. Sorry about that, but the least I can do is try to make you comfortable. Would you like to be washed up and tended to?
I continue to smoke - my eyes troubled.
"You killed her crew mates, stole their gear and rifled the bodies; even as you attacked her again and again, doing what you could to bring her down. Now that she is trapped and helpless - and in your control... you offer her creature comforts while you hold her weapon in front of her - her ship damaged and her folk dead or prisoner - along with her?"
"Don't you think she'll see that as hypocritical?"
"Also - she seems to have a strong dislike for the idea of being compared to a slave. She may not have a high opinion of slaves, then."
"Yet you are admitting that you are acting without any free will in this venture - even as a slave might. And then you offer to wash her and tend to her - again, even as a slave might."
My tone is merely confused now.
"Perhaps that is the best thing, though. Perhaps after attacking her - and then apologizing for the attack and cleaning her - she may change her mind on your actions specifically. While I would assume she may find it a ploy, and treat it with contempt... I am not in my element here - and am clearly not sure of what will happen."
"I will not check your actions - I merely offer you the suggestion is all; she may see it as a sign of weakness - not kindness - "nobles" normally do, at least - the ones I have seen," I say with a sense of confusion and frustration in my voice.
"In this - I defer to your judgment, though. As I said - I seem to be out of my element."
Rain looks on as Variel speaks to Flynn and then offers to make the captured crew and female officer more clean and comfortable.
She wonders why he would belittle Flynn, his own crew mate, in front of prisoners in the manner that he just had speaking on failures and such. This showed that their group was not unified and at open odds. She wondered if that was part of the plan discussed between Flynn and Variel before they stormed the Rahadoumi ship. Still, she did not like it and kept her silence ... the last thing she wanted to do was make it appear there was greater dissension in their pressed group.
As Horatio gives his retort to the Lieutenant Dhaavan squints his eyes and breathes in through his teeth with a pained hiss, pinching the bridge of his nose between his thumb and fore-finger. Eyes still squinting he says
"And what's so filthy about what she said," giving a shrug with his slight grimace, looking at the phlegm on his boots, Flynn's boots clean.
He then turns to the Lieutenant "It's really not us what need an excuse ta kill you. We don't make the call. It's the Captain. He makes them decisions. I for one got no need ta be killin ya or yer mates at this point."
GM:
"Of course, Dhaavan - you are quite correct to chastise me. It was foolish of me to say otherwise," I say to him, contritely, my eyes still troubled, only now in the Common Tongue.
I glance between him and Variel again, confusion still on my face.
Gods - would that I were somewhere simpler; like the lumber yard - or better; the academy! Where answers were black and white - and I could see not only the answer, but also the reason.
"As I said before - this goes beyond my understanding. I am no expert in these matters," I add wearily.
I bow to the crew.
"Again - I am sorry - the stress of battle - my own near death... It did not improve my mood," I say sincerely.
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Variel voice is not one of chastisement but of trying a different tactic and being patient with the man. His words prior were also meant to be more instructional as that is how Variel perceives Flynn to be orientated. Instead of yelling at the man some cool words of wisdom might go further.
It is not hypocritical at all Flynn. It is accepting of the situation and making the most of it. It is true that I took from them the gold that they carried as dead men need no wealth. Even the weapon that was this woman's I took. To not do so would risk another conflit and more fighting. Keeping them disarmed is easiest and most humane method of keeping them at bay. This way we don't need to tie them up or place chains on their hands and feet,
I attacked quickly and ruthlessly it is true. To do elsewise is to ask for your own death. I did not attack a downed foe or acted dishonorably. Should we treat those that we vanquished as less than human? No I understand what their lives may entail since we ourselves are going through it now. Therefore, I choose to treat them with the dignity that they have earned. They may not get any from others.
*edited for preamble as to how Variel was speaking.*
Rain could not understand the guttural sounds of the language that Dhaavan spoke to Flynn but she could the ones that came from Flynn's mouth in response.
Stepping forward, Rain states in quiet but confidant voice, "You do not have to apologise, Flynn. You have not done wrong." She glances at Dhaavan and sends him a hard look to say he should shut his mouth unless it is to sway the other side. The look she gives Variel is not dissimilar although she is confused by his response to what Flynn had been attempting to do. They are always at odds. They say it will change, but I do not see how it can ...
Sko ignores the arguement and wonders if it wouldn't have been more of a kindness to let the woman die. Seeing the Captain heal himself by eating the heart was surprising to say the least. He had never seen that kind of blood magic before. The fate in store for this woman is likely a gruesome one.
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At Rain's words spoken to Flynn, Variel nods his head in agreement. There was nothing really wrong about what Flynn did, just in how he went about doing it. If he learns more from this failure than a success then he still comes away with a small success yourself. This is the wisdom I was trying to impart, but let's see how he takes it. I don't think Rain took it how I meant though. I will have to talk to Rain soon and explain how I meant what I said. That look showed that she disapproved of my words. It's never easy...
Rain watches as Variel's nods his head in the affirmative after her statement regarding Flynn. Perhaps it is not as bad as I think it is ... Gozreh, lend me patience and understanding. Rain looks at Variel again and allows her eyes to linger a moment or two as if attempting to gauge what she is not seeing or hearing ... The initial sharpness is all but gone from her gaze.
She bows her head slightly to her Elven pressed mate and hopes they will speak tonight when things have calmed and they have time to themselves.
Her impression of Dhaavan and his actions had not changed and it would be prudent if the small human did not draw further attention to himself.
I think about Rain's words for a moment, then toss the stub of my cheroot over the side of the ship.
Then I consider Variel's comments to me, going over them in my head. I nod once, then suddenly laugh loudly; the laugh real - the stress of the battle melted away.
”By the gods, Variel – you’re right. I am being too sullen and morose; and that’s not good business,” I add with a hearty grin.
”Indeed, lad – you’re right,” I continue, giving Variel a warm clap on his back, realizing my dark mood is likely to be ruining the elation of my companions at this well deserved victory over our true enemy - and the potential for greater prizes to come, no doubt!
I turn my gaze to the shapely Rain - happy to hear her kind words, even so - I do what I can to mold my tone into something more seemly that aligns to her current position.
”Well then, Acting Officer Taneththir; what are your orders for this lot here,” I say, jerking a blunt thumb at the gaggle of prisoners.
”Have they been fully searched? I mean to say - the Captain may not like it if we brings them aboard and they have a dirk stowed down their boot, eh?”
I give Variel a friendly nod.
“Val, lad – you’re right – dead men need no loot – but I reckon prisoners don’t either. Should we relieve them of the coin before the likes of Plugg give them a full "once over" and take it for themselves?” I say, then turn back to Rain.
”And, begging your pardon, chief – what shall we be telling the captain? He may like to know that this one here,” I say, indicating the officer ”says that she’s something important back home… And speaking what we tell our own captain – what’s the plan on what we ought to say about the value of the pike? Sure’s certain he’ll find out sooner or later – but, well – seeing as how you’re acting chief – what are your orders?” I ask, in a suddenly merrier mood.
Rain looks to Flynn and then the other mates. "Search the prisoners. I would rather employ caution than haste at this point, especially where Captain Harrigan is concerned. If they later attempted an attack on his person and it seems as though we allowed it due to incompetence or motive then that would not bode well for our pressed crew."
And looking at the pike in Variel's hand, she speaks the next in Elven, not wanting the female officer or her crew to overhear/understand her,
"And regarding the pike, I would say stow it, hide it here on this Rahadoumi ship, and then we do not have to lie to the Captain. I have a feeling if we downplayed its true ability or importance, he would see right through it, being he seems to understand the nature of magic."
"Aye-aye, chief!" I say, tipping my forelock.
I will then move to one of the pirates - not caring which one - and proceed to do a "Full Search" of the person.
"Oh yeah, chief - the lad you healed up on the deck there?" I add, pointing to the sterncastle "he's likely still alive - though out cold... You want us to go haul him down here?"
Rain watches as Variel moves down to the jig boats and turns to Jiro,
Upon Flynn's words regarding the stabilised Rahadoumi sailor, she nods, speaking in Common, "Aye, bring him down here. Be mindful of his injuries", knowing full well he would being that he was a doctor.
After searching the first pirate - I nod.
"Aye-aye," I add; then rush aloft to the other lad - carrying him gingerly down to the main deck, and deposit him with the other prisoners.
"He's bad off - but could be worse. I wasted all the spells I have to cure on the lady there," I add, pointing to the officer "Otherwise I'd do what I could to tend to him..."
Glancing at Rain - and hearing her orders to Variel and Jiro - I ask -
"What about the rest of our mates, chief? You got any particular orders for them?" I ask, curious to know her next move, even as I move to the next pirate -
"Ahoy - Dhaavan lad, oh mighty "Sorcerer Supreme" - why not get your bloody ass over here and lend me a hand with this, eh?" I add cheerfully as I work.
"Sheesh, people keep snappin' at me to hurry up, or that I'm not takin' action fast enough when what I'm supposed to be reactin' to ain't barely finished happenin!"
Dhaavan looks over one of the prisoner as Jack pecks through the the third prisoner.
Looking to Sko, "Sko, keep an eye on the prisoners. Aye, a fine guard indeed for this lot. The injured boy there, can you aid him with your healing? I leave the decision to you."
And to Valeros, "Take a look around and see if there is anything else of note or value on this vessel. I would see us manned with information before we hand her over to the Captain."
"Belay that hash, bub!" I growl harshly at Dhaavan's grousing.
"She's our the bloody brass on this little shindig - so obey her gods damned orders quick-smart, or you'll be tasting the back of my hand," I add sternly.
What's his game? I think, watching Dhaavan covertly.
Hell - there's no need for any more dissention in the ranks before these maggot spawn. And if he thinks smart remarks and comments are going to win him friends and well-wishers he's wrong.
I give a quick look to Rain - seeing her blue eyes - like icy crystals.
Meantime, I got a hunch that comely elf lass my have a body that looks as soft as silk - but just underneath she's got a steel tempered edge. And I also got a hunch that Dhaavan don't want to mess with that edge - likely he'll be cut open hard and she'll have his guts for garters if he gives her more lip.
I wince at that thought, and continue to work. Then - noticing that Dhaavan barely takes a mere six seconds to glance over the pirates - I shakes my head.
"Nay lad - take your bloody time, right? This kind of work needs to be smart - and we can't afford to miss nothing... So give yourself a little room to work - six seconds, ha! Try twice that - ten times that if needed - hell, even twenty times that - and then you're sure you missed nothing, eh?" I add, hoping that Dhaavan will use the time to really make sure they had no where to hide anything.
I add absently as I search -
"I heard in the south - and many places east - they strip their prisoners naked. It's very hard to hide something on your person if you have no clothes. You can't hide a dagger, or a thin wire to garrote someone... not even a whittled toothpick to pop open a lock... it's generally the best way to make sure that there's nothing missing."
"But I reckon we can leave that choice to the captain," I say, continuing to aid Dhaavan as best as I can.
While Dhaavan tends to wear a rathar warm or pleasant expression or a jovial if not teasing expression, that fades as he glares daggers at Flynn. There's an uncharacteristic venom in his voice as he speaks his tongue the way it was meant to be spoken,
I really don't get why I don't get a damn chance to respond to what anyone says before somebody jumps down my throat, it feels like. Then I go make a simple comment, and then i get a lecture on top of it. Hells!
When the 16 rounds the GM mentioned are up, Dhaavan comments, "Sounds like things are calming down. Lets see what happens next eh?"
Seijiro, finally having something to do that was worth the doing, moves to help Variel hide the pike.
Until now, he's kept silent and still, watching the others, shaking his head in silent disbelief at their bickering under the circumstances.
This is insanity. Rain is in charge, and Flynn seems to think he's her second in command. I never heard such an order given... Flynn has no leadership abilities at all, he's just a bully, no better than Plugg really. It's no wonder he doesn't like the man, they are peas in a pod. If we DO mutiny and take the ship, and Rain becomes captain, if Flynn ends up her second, I'll be leaving for sure. I won't willingly serve under the likes of him any more than I would under Plugg. I hope all this fighting though is just the stress of battle, because I'm tired of it all. I thought maybe working together like we did might serve to make things better, but it hasn't really, just changed things up a little.
Once they are done hiding the pike, Seijiro trots back toward the rest and again stands there, arms crossed, watching the prisoners, keeping his attention off the bickering of his mates.
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Flynn what are you playing at? We have had our issues, but never before have you acted like such an ass. Is this how you take criticism and wisdom? We are going to need to have a long talk after this with everyone else's as well. Following Rain's commands is one thing, but if you think that makes you second behind her think again. If you ever try to enforce her orders yourself to me you had better have more help.
Thanks Jiro for the help. I don't know if that is going to be enough but it is the best we can do. Let's stay away from here and hope not to arouse suspicion.
Variel will walk over closer to Flynn I case hostilities arise between him and Dhaavan. Since he does not have the pike anymore he will have the cutlass out and ready instead.
Seijiro nods to Variel. "Glad to be able to help. I hope it's enough, but if they can detect magic, I'm afraid nothing we can do will prevent them finding it. Personally, I think you just hanging onto it yourself would be just as good. But I'm not gonna argue it with anyone. Wiser folk than I are making the decisions." He nods toward Rain specifically, then he shrugs and waits to see what will happen next.
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The fog dissipates as the battle dies down. The Captain comes up on deck, blood still dripping from his sword. Behind him come the other members of your pirate crew and 5 more Rahadoumi sailors that were captured. Harrigan raises the bloody sword into the air and a rousing cheer thunders across both ships. You see Rosie, and Ratline who have various gashes and cuts but are grinning nonetheless. Jack Scrimshaw looks a bit ill but you would guess that is because that was his first real engagement. Sandara is moving among the pirates and prisoners alike tending to wounds but cheers just as loud as everyone else. She is a cleric of the Pirate Queen after all and this is what pirates do. Plugg and Scourge swagger on deck, rumor has it that they stopped the Rahadoumi from scuttling the ship. Kipper is brought up on deck and looks pretty badly burned. You suspect that that might be what that explosion you heard was all about. In addition, it is distressing when you see several more crew have died in the attack. Badger Medlar, Barefoot Samms, Tilly Bracket, Syl, and Fipps Chumlett all died in the attack.
Everyone is brought back on board the Wormwood as the crew begins a large celebration. Fishguts roasts an entire pig and wine and beer are brought out and free flowing from the hold of the Man's Promise. As the celebration goes on the Captain as well as Grok and Plugg go over the plunder in the hold. The party continues over the night and into the next day. During that time all of the cargo from the Rahadoumi ship is transferred over to the Wormwood.
Finally the Captain summons the entire crew on deck of the Wormwood and announces the shares of plunder. Each member of the crew, and you all are included, receive 150gp in coinage. For capturing the Aft Deck and Sterncastle so quickly though, you seven each receive an additional 100 pieces of gold. As well...here. He tosses Rain a small satchel with seven potion vials in it. He gets a grin on his face and says In addition, though I was never in any serious danger from one of these maggots, you all did warn me about the man creeping up my back. He pulls an amulet in the shape of a charging boar as well as pulling a plain looking shortsword and scabbard from the back of his belt and tossing them to you all. Let it not be said that Captain Barnabas Harrigan is not generous with those who serve him well! The crew cheer him again.
He cuts off the cheering with a look before booming out, All right, you scurvy tars! You’ve done a right good job by me—we’ve got a second ship now, and she’s quite a prize from the looks of her. But I still have only one crew. So here’s the plan—the Wormwood will sail on to our planned destination with our new shipmates here, while Mr. Plugg will pick a skeleton crew to sail the Man’s Promise to Port Peril, where
she’ll be worth a pretty penny as salvage.
Turning his evil eye upon the Rahadoumi he says As for these fine fellows here Harrigan gestures at the remainder of the captured ship’s crew some of them will no doubt be worth a hefty ransom from their families back in Azir. And for the rest, if the life of a pirate’s not for them, they can spend the rest of their lives at sea!
To make his point he goes over to one of the Rahadoumi sailors and grabs her by the neck in his powerful arm, he slashes her across the arm with his dagger before lifting her with one hand... and tossing her overboard and into the sea where the sharks are still circling. She begins screaming when they immediately smell the blood and attack in a frenzy. Her screams mercifully stop abruptly after a few minutes.
Harrigan looks over at the Rahadoumi left on board and says Anyone else? All of the remaining Rahadoumi except for the Officer and two others scramble over to swear their loyalty to Harrigan. The Officer's of the Wormwood proceed below deck with the exception of Plugg and Scourge.
At that point, Plugg calls out Alright you mangy dogs! You heard the Captain! Here is who is coming with me aboard the Man's Promise! When I call your name you have 10 minutes to get your s*+$ and get on board or you'll spend your first day in the bilges! I will be in charge and Scourge her will be my second. Anyone has a problem with that...then too f!!%ing bad! Shivikah, Aretta, Jape, Jak, Ratline, Tate, Conchobar, Rosie, Owlbear, Sandara, Fishguts, Patch, Maggie, Dhaavan, Horatio, Rain, Variel, Valeros, Sko, Seijiro. He also selects five members of the Rahadoumi crew who were most fervent in their swearing of loyalty to Harrigan.
Grok sees you as you go below deck and cries a bit that you all will be leaving her. Before you go she slips one of you one of the fine looking bucklers she had... ...before going to drown her tears in drink.
Seijiro stashes his newfound wealth and heads down to his locker to get his gear. When he's done, he trots back up on deck and looks around the ship. He hasn't made a lot of friends here, but he has some and despite the nature of his service here, it's been home for a few weeks. He sighs and heads over to the new ship, the Man's Promise. Once there, he slips downstairs and claims a bunk and a locker in the crew's quarters. Then he comes back up on deck and waits for the bad news on what their assignments might be.
Just wonderful, we're still not free of Scourge and Plugg. They're just in new positions now... Plugg to be captain, Scourge as his first mate... who will our new bosun be?
He barks out a laugh as he thinks to himself.. then shakes his head...
Probably one of their toadies from the Wormwood, I'm sure. At least we still have Fishguts and hopefully Sko to cook for us, and Rosie and Sandara will be coming with us too. I'm glad for that as well. Hei Feng perhaps is smiling on us a bit this time. Perhaps that mutiny that Flynn so wanted against Harrigan can happen on this ship. Maybe we can take down Scourge and Plugg with the group we have now. To do that though, we're gonna have to make some friends among the new sailors as well.
With that thought, Seijiro walks over to the new Rahadoumi crew and bows to them and introduces himself. "Hullo. I'm Seijiro. Nice to meetcha you all. He gives them a quick smile.
Sko frowns as Plugg calls their names and wonders at his selecting of them. With only a skeleton crew on the other ship Plugg and Scourge can't afford to mistreat anyone. He can't imagine what game Plugg might be playing here but his distrust of the man makes him assume he's up to something.
While Dhaavan tends to wear a rathar warm or pleasant expression or a jovial if not teasing expression, that fades as he glares daggers at Flynn. There's an uncharacteristic venom in his voice as he speaks his tongue the way it was meant to be spoken, ** spoiler omitted **
I really don't get why I don't get a damn chance to respond to what anyone says before somebody jumps down my throat, it feels like. Then I go make a simple comment, and then i get a lecture on top of it. Hells!
When the 16 rounds the GM mentioned are up, Dhaavan comments, "Sounds like things are calming down. Lets see what happens next eh?"
I stop my work a moment, striding over to him - my face dark as a storm, and my hand flashes to the hilt of my rapier - my eyes like black coals, ignited with hellfire and from my mouth comes the tongue - the words as harsh and grating as the noise of tortured souls being broken in the lowest pits of the Abyss.
"Dhaavan; I'd never hurt you lad," I roar out in rage and disgust at him.
"This is all an act - we've been arguing back and forth in front of these prisoners - we need to show them we're a team; so whatever happens later - they'll know if they screw with one of us - they'll screw with all of us."
My voice drops to a hiss - and I point at the prisoners - continuing to glare daggers at Dhaavan - my voice dropping to a grating whisper; my tone suddenly becoming more intimate and cruel...
"Mate, you're my friend; trust me, I don't want to hurt you - but those folk hale from Rahadoum. That's a land of "noble born" or "slavers". If they see us even joke around with an officer in a friendly way - they'll likely think the officer is weak; because no slave would joke around with their master, I'd wager. If they see us do it without consequences, they will likely disrespect the officer, too. And they may think we're an easy mark, and try to do something stupid, at least, that's my fear."
At that, my hand slides the hilt of my rapier an inch out of the sheathe, as I speak louder, coming to my point, as I now point to Rain, our commander.
"Of course I'm acting like an ass, sure - it's true. I'm acting like a cruel, arrogant, slave-owning noble-born; with too much pride and power who treats those under him like they're not even people, right?
"Come on lad, of course I'm acting this way - hell, I did it before - I talked of "owning them" because I'm trying to treat them like we're just like any other Rahadoum type would treat them - cruel, arrogant, ruthless, no love for the gods, and generally evil. Then maybe they'll be afraid of us. Hell, if any of the prisoners join with us - and that's pretty likely - we're already all "pressed men" and we're sure to have lost a lad or two during this - likely the captain will need more men to fill the ranks - well, we can't have them thinking we're weak, right? Or they may try something with us."
"So yeah - that's why I'm acting like an ass - that's why I'm threatening you now - that's why I'm treating you this way. Please, for all the gods sake - buckle under now - act afraid - act like I'm going to kill you or something. We can't have these folk thinking that our men fight each other and disrespect an officer - if they join with us as more pressed men - and they decide we're weak later - they may join with Plugg. You know he acts - just like I'm acting now - ruthless, evil - and they'll obey the next "noble master" that controls them. I don't need a man "obeying me" - but I don't want these folk to join with Plugg, and come after us because they think we're weak, if they aren't killed or ransomed, that is."
"Plus, I know you - you can use this - we can play "Good constable - Bad Constable" - I'm the ass - later on you'll use that honeyed tongue to sweeten them, right? But now I'm being an ass; threatening - being cruel - but it really is an act; I'd never beat you just for making joke, come on."
I slam my rapier fully back into the sheath - then point at Rain again - then, fold my arms and stare darkly at Dhaavan as I finish my speech; my eyes grinding into him.
"Please trust me lad - show them that our officers are something to obey and be afraid of - if they act up later and Plugg or the captain kills one just to make an example of them for acting up - then we lose a possible reward from ransom - and we certainly lose the chance to make an ally we can have against Plugg or the captain when we try to get away. Hell, think about it - now we have a second ship, right? Well, you think the captain will scuttle her? No - he'll want to take it - sell it, more than likely - and that means a crew will need to get her to port."
"And who's the Captain of this ship while it sailed to the next port? Why - I'd wager my last copper penny Harrigan will make the captain of this ship be his First Officer - and that means Plugg! Plugg will need a crew - if we sail with him - with lads we can trust - we can kill him soon, then take the ship!"
"But we need more lads - more folk we can trust. So I'm being that ass now - I'm being the "Bad constable" now - if you knuckle under now - and these prisoners join our ranks - that means - especially after they all saw me treat you like you're just a "low born, slave type"; most likely just like them - well, I'm hoping that when you be the "Good constable" with them later - that my treatment of you will give you an edge, you know... kind of like, maybe - well; call it a bonus to the circumstance - if you catch my drift?"
"That's why I'm being this way - I like you lad - I do; trust me on that. I'm being the ass for a purpose. Now please, trust me - and, if you wouldn't mind - please apologize to our officer Rain - kiss her ass in front of these folk - in the Common Tongue so they understand you - and then; work your sweet magic on them later. I'm sorry for not letting you in on the plan - I didn't have time - I just saw a chance and took it - even this speech; me yelling now, the thing with my sword - it's all made to look like I'm an ass for their benefit. But I promise you it's an act - when we get back to the ship - I'll buy you a drink with our prize money - if we get any. And when we get to the next port of call - if it's anywhere near my homeland - I'll definitely set you up with a drink and few lasses I know from the academy. Like I said, you're my friend - please, trust me and go along with this, I'm begging you," I say, my eyes sincere, hoping he'll make a big show about apologizing to our commander Rain in front of these prisoners.
I pray that Dhaavan knows I'm being completely sincere, too. All that talk I made earlier of "owning folk"? From a man who's own mother was murdered just to help free slaves from a plantation? Surely he'd know that I would never want to be a slaver myself; and I hope he knows that when it comes to "mates" that I'd never hurt a friend; not intentionally - and since Dhaavan's clever - he can use my little ploy to an advantage for our group.
I pray all of this, and trust to his next action - hoping he'll show these folk that our officers aren't ones to be trifled with - I know he can sweet talk them later, though. If he apologies in front of them in Common, so they understand him - they may hate me - but they'll see him as someone they may be friends with later - I hope!
Then, my harsh critique finished, my black speech truncated, and my demands made - I give Dhaavan and cold, cruel and contemptuous look, and await his response!
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Hearing from the captain that a new group was to be assembled to sail the captured ship, Variel's heart rose for a brief second until he heard who was captaining the new vessel. At least under Harrigan there was reward for good service. Under Plugg it was nothing but harsh abrasiveness and unrelenting punishment. Regardless, Variel hurries to gather the remainder of his kit. Stopping just long enough to ask Grok if any MW or scrolls were obtained in the attack, Variel goes to stow his gear on the new ship.
Trying to avoid the jig where the pike was stored, Variel nonetheless keeps an eye open for those approaching it. Hopefully the pike is still there and can be retrieved just after the ships part. Perhaps Jiro can grab it sometime when no one is looking. Of everyone gathered, Rain would probably be the best suited to using the reach weapon to full effect.
Speaking of Rain, once he ha a chance, he will approach her. Listen Rain, I saw that look that you gave me when I spoke initially to Flynn about failure. I wasn't trying to egg him on just to help him realize that some good can still come from failure. That is all that I meant about him failing. Just wanted to clear the air since we have had our past and all. I am trying to respect him and his ways and thought you should know. Nice job today. You took the lead like you were born to it. I'd follow your lead anytime.
glancing at the pouch that Harrigan threw her, Yu mind if I take one of the healing potions. I know I have one already, but the other I don't think would do me as good. I'll defer to you though since he tossed them your way. What do you think about that other stuff Harrigan said? 'He treats well those that serve well'. Seems funny that he hands over his own stuff like that. Wish Plugg and Scourge would take a tip from him.
250gp
Request for potion of cure mod
Flynn what are you playing at? We have had our issues, but never before have you acted like such an ass. Is this how you take criticism and wisdom? We are going to need to have a long talk after this with everyone else's as well. Following Rain's commands is one thing, but if you think that makes you second behind her think again. If you ever try to enforce her orders yourself to me you had better have more help.
Thanks Jiro for the help. I don't know if that is going to be enough but it is the best we can do. Let's stay away from here and hope not to arouse suspicion.
Variel will walk over closer to Flynn I case hostilities arise between him and Dhaavan. Since he does not have the pike anymore he will have the cutlass out and ready instead.
Seeing Variel stepping toward me with his hand on his cutlass, my eyes flash darkly to him.
”I’d watch it, elf – now’s not the time! Don’t you have orders to obey?” I growl, my face nasty.
”Oh! Well - maybe the boss wasn’t clear enough for you, elf! Maybe you don’t understand civilized speech, eh? Fine, then, in your own bloody lingo!”
I speak rapidly, my face still dark, my look still nasty, my tone cruel through the elven words.
I pray that any who can understand elven will at least understand my words, and I pray, too - they'll finally get what the hell I've been up to, if they haven't guessed already.
”Variel – trust me – I’m acting like an ass on purpose. It’s an act – I told you before. These folk are from Rahadoum – yes? There’s a huge caste system of slaves and low-born. Then they have the ruling class; you know - officers and noble-born.”
”Slaves can be killed for disrespecting their masters – I’d wager the same is true for common sailors to disrespect an officer; kind of like how Plugg treats us, right?”
”So I’m acting like they would – or how I think they would – so they are afraid of our officers. Come on – our ship has pressed men, right? We just had a big fight – we may have lost some lads – not counting the ones we lost before the fight in the hold.”
”We have a new ship here – right? Someone will need to captain it – chances are that will be the first officer of our own ship; and that would mean Plugg, right? Now, if we are on this ship – and sailing with Plugg, well... we may have our chance to get some payback against that sod – and make our move for freedom!”
”But I’ve never sailed a Rahadoum ship before – maybe not many of our lads have. So these prisoners, the ones that surrendered; well… Some of them will likely be on this ship, too; to show us the ropes.”
”Dhaavan made a joke to Rain, our officer. If you did that with your master – or an officer, and you came from Rahadoum – they’d likely just kill you outright! So I’m trying to be harsh with Dhaavan now – I’m hoping to convince them that we’re not weak; that we’re not someone to be trifled with.”
”But it’s all a bloody act! I told you that before the officer woke up – I begged you to trust me – I told you I hate slavers – I told you then it was an act – and yes, I’m still acting now. Yes – I’m acting like an ass – yes I’m acting like bloody slave owning, noble-born, arrogant, cruel, evil, godless, basterd! – but that’s on purpose! I planned to do that the minute I realized that we took a Rahadoum officer, I hoped my plan would work with her then, it didn't - but I dug that grave, now I have to lie in it. I can't suddenly be nice now, because then they would see through my sham. But I want them to be afraid, at least of Rain, or any other officer... just for now, though.”
”Hell, if they think we’re weak, they may cause trouble with folk like Plugg, and you know what he'll do to them, then. And if Plugg acts like a slave-master with them - and they join with our crew - they may decide to follow Plugg, because at least he acts strong and can protect them."
"Come on, now - these sailors aren't nobles, hell, they may even be pressed men like us, if not low-born types. I doubt any of them have known anything but being slaves or low-born and living in fear of reciprocity; well, except maybe their officer. But I doubt she'll matter much when the captain gets her; if she's really important as she say, likely the Captain will throw her in a the brig or something and keep her safe from harm, as a valuable person to be ransomed."
"But lad, think of the sailors, right? I'd wager they’ve only known slavery or living as low-caste folk all their life – and I reckon that being too generous with men who we just pirated probably will make them suspicious; no slave owning "noble-born" would do that to them, right? Hell, they'd probably think we’re just trying to manipulate them; even if we're sincerely nice to them.”
”So I’m being an ass now – yes. I’m being the “bad constable” now. And praying to all the gods that they think that our officers aren’t to be trifled with – and that we aren’t to be trifled with – and that our ship has no division – no disunity – that we’re a solid team; and if they join us – as is likely – as we had pressed men and will probably need more after this battle – that maybe they won’t think we’re weak enough to trifle with later.”
”You may not think I’m wonderful – but trust me; I know about folk from Rahadoum; I’m doing what I can to act like them. If they think they can “mouth off” to our officers... Well, what if they do that to the captain, or to Plugg just because they think they can get away with it?”
”They’ll be killed by Plugg or that lot – and I’d rather have them as living friends later then dead because they make a mistake.”
”So yes – I’m acting like an ass! Yes – I’m acting like a slave-owning basterd from Rahadoum. It’s an act, lad – I told you before I revived the officer, don't you remember?"
"Now, that whole business with Dhaavan just now? I just explained the whole thing to him in the black speech of the Infernal Tongue. He knows my plans – and all that business with me yelling at him, and rattling my rapier was also part of the act. But Dhaavan knows my plans now, and why I am still acting this way.”
I muster my patience, the strain of being a two-faced basterd hurting my chest and head, and the continued act causing me physical stress.
”You’re treating them like you would a good decent person. It's your nature, I understand it and I don’t fault you for that; but I don't think it will work well with folk from Rahadoum."
"You may disagree with me, - but please - I'm begging you; if you keep debating with me in the Common Tongue, all they'll see is we keep fighting each other. I don’t want us to fight at all, especially in front of prisoners. Please – if you need to respond to me – or say something to me; please, please, please – do it in Elven! They say elves don’t live in Rahadoum – there’s a good chance they can’t speak the language. But if they see us continue to fight, and be too familiar with our officers, I am gambling they’ll think we’re weak; and that our officers are weak, and that may tempt them to a foolish course before someone can explain that if they join with us, instead of doing something to the officers on our own ship – like Dhaavan did with Rain – if they did that with Plugg it could get them killed. Hell - he lashed me for asking to take a boat on a fishing trip! What do you think he'd do to these folk if they thought they could back-talk to him?”
”Variel - whatever you have to say to me, at least for now – please keep it in Elven. And please trust this is an act. My mother was murdered for trying to free slaves! You think I would be a slaver, too? Come on lad – this is only an act. Please trust me! Dhaavan can sweet talk them later, but for now I’m the “Bad Constable” to his “Good Constable”. Please trust me, and believe me when I said I was doing these things on purpose.”
I pray again that my words to Variel make sense. I told him it was an act before, but he didn’t seem to understand it. I pray also that my ruse works. My mind recalls everything I read of folk from Rahadoum. All the lore I've studied suggests that those in charge rule through intimidation and fear. After a lifetime of seeing the leaders treat you with ruthless intimidation; I'd wager that the sailors may not be used to friendly treatment from anyone. Especially those who just attacked them, and indeed – they may distrust it as a trick.
But I don’t know what the gods will bring me… I tried that ploy with the officer; acting like I assumed any “noble-born” officer-type would; who only received their commission because of their birthright – not merit. I gambled my words would have done the job; they didn’t.
So now I act like this crew’s Plugg, or more likely, the “Master Scourge”. I am acting like the dull-witted bully; who may be hated, but is at least is feared. I am hoping that this is enough; that these new sailors will see my actions, hate me if they want, but at least they won’t do something stupid with our own officers. Plugg is not as merciful as our pressed crew; that much I know.
I feel a horrible cramping in my stomach. All of my plans, all of my intentions; everything that I do to try to help my mates… It only alienates me from them further. They don’t like me and are suspicious of me. I think they believe my acting the way I do is the “real me”, instead of who I really am.
Hear me gods – I pray to you now about my comrades. I pray that you will ease the issues between us, and I pray that from now on they can give me the benefit of the doubt. That they can at least trust me, for a little while; until they can ask me my intentions in private so I can explain, if my actions rankle them; instead of just assuming the worst of me over and over. Oh gods – I have already given my blood for answers and the chance for freedom! I will offer more to you when I can...
Oh Milani – goddess of freedom and battle; hear my heart, know my soul: I will offer you more than just a trifling of blood, if you can only show help me persuade my comrades that my true heart is different than the face I wear among our slavers and our jailors. Please goddess, show me the way – show me what I need to do! I ask for your blessings on this, and pray it in your name! Please give me the chance to show my allies my true heart, not the sham that I wear for slavers!
I tilt my head back slightly at Variel at the conclusion of my brief words, looking down my nose at him with a sneer on my face; now that I’ve communicated my opinion of the situation in the “low-born” language of mere elves. Then, as my explanation complete, I suddenly turn my back on him with a flourish; seemingly unafraid of any potential threat from a simple sailor.
The fog dissipates as the battle dies down. The Captain comes up on deck, blood still dripping from his sword. Behind him come the other members of your pirate crew and 5 more Rahadoumi sailors that were captured. Harrigan raises the bloody sword into the air and a rousing cheer thunders across both ships. You see Rosie, and Ratline who have various gashes and cuts but are grinning nonetheless. Jack Scrimshaw looks a bit ill but you would guess that is because that was his first real engagement. Sandara is moving among the pirates and prisoners alike...
Right, so my character has not acted as friendly as he might - especially lately. While that was mostly in character - it seems my actions or intentions are simply not understood by the majority of the crew.
I may have also confused you too, regarding my actions and intentions. So I took the liberty of explaining them a bit more in detail via spoilers.
They may have taken more then the few seconds we had before the captain made his move - but I'm hoping that you'll forgive the time difference. If it took too long, I do apologize, but in the interest of laying all my cards on the table as clearly and succinctly as possible - and to eliminate any confusion from anyone I did what I could just now to make it work.
I hope that works for you; if I didn't have time for those explanations, they were social RP after all; I hope you'll forgive it, especially considering your recent post.
I thought my plans were clear and it seems like they weren't, a common problem with communication in text, I find. In any case, if those explanations I made - both to Dhaavan - and anyone who understands elven (at the least that's Variel, Rain, and Jiro - and I'm not sure about Valeros and Sko) take too long - my apologies.
But I felt that it would be better to explain my intentions more clearly, even if it would have taken a little longer. Hope that's okay.
By the way - I sent you a Private Message regarding the rest of the post.
Dhaavan listens to Horatio as he speaks, giving a nod, but maintaining his grimace. He then responds to Flynn in the same harsh tongue raising his voice on occasion and gesturing angrily. The foul words flow off the tongue as he "rips into" Flynn harshly.
"I get what you're saying, and I'm sorry for taking it the wrong way. The fight and all, I would normally have asked what your problem was instead of getting angry, but I was feeling a little hot-blooded. I'm sure you understand. So for the sake of maintaining the image that we're at odds I'll keep the tone."
"That's not really a play that I care for, seems a little underhanded, but it does make sense. I'm just better at the honey, and really got no real talent with deception, jsut don't feel right to me, Like it don't make sense. I dunno, it's weird"
"It's strange how it's actually easier to speak in this tongue while angry. I've never really had the chance to talk like this, almost as if the vocabulary was designed around the sound of cruel words, and hate. Just an interesting linguistic artifact of the tongue. Like Orc sounding natural when it's shouted and dwarves seems easier to speak drunk! Languages are strange like that."
"Anyway, if you thought that i was being snarky with Rain, then she may have too, so i'll go apologize to her, and let her in on our game. Playing on us arguing. SInce i don't think they like you, they may be more willing to gimme their ear if I don't seem to like ya either. So long as we on the same page, guess everything's fine with us."
The disconnect between Dhaavan's tone and expression and the topic of conversation and reasonable word-choice is very clear to Horatio. Then to joke around about linguistics, Dhaavan is clearly not feeling the emotion he is so strongly conveying, he's just playing along with Flynn.
He then turns from Horatio with a harsh glare. Taking a breath he approaches rain and softly says to her,
GM:
for a good deal on the potion, grabbling both if they are cheep enough, as well as another spring-loaded Wrist sheath (5gp)
"Was good sailin wit' yea. To bad we gotta split," Dhaavan talls the Half-orc with a frown. "Thanks for all the help yea givin our crew. Things would have been really miserable weren't it for you, so from all o' us, we appreciate it.
'May the waves gently push you on;
May the wind be always at your back,
the sun shine warm upon your face,
The rain fall soft upon yer deck,
And 'til we meet again,
Besmara bless yea and guide yer blade!'
It's a twist on an old blessing from home. Anyway, I gotta get my gear!"
After some last second shopping, Dhaavan grabs his sack of things, what he kept all his stuff in even with the locker as force of habit from making quick getaways. Luckily he maintained that tendency as if he had to pack he may not have made it within Plugg's ten minutes.
After loading his bag in a locker, Dhaavan glances at the Rahadoumi to see if he recognizes any of em as the ones he fought, or if they were another group, and tries to gauge their reaction to Sejiro.
Hearing that Tilly Bracket was among the dead, Jack hop up and wings over to see ehr body, and flits around till her body is dealt with, then just perches nearby, not really moving or preening as he often does when he flits around or sits on Dhaavan's hat.
Moments before the ship leaves, Jack Thrush flits back to the group, landing on Dhaavan's shoulder, burying his head. The young man gently pets the bird's head and nods.
Jack looks up to Dhaavan and says,
I go below and grab my gear, my head pounding - stress twisting at me.
Mechanically I grab my things - my eyes bleary, considering the mere 100 gold the captain gave each of us - including the few potions and those two enchanted items.
Fool! It was 100 gold in addition to 150 he gave you... That's 250 gold... How did you miss that?
I shake my head - not even knowing; the battle fatigue still hard on me.
I ponder the rest of the goods aloft - the short sword, magical though it may be - it wasn't something I could use, being more of a finesse fighter... So the sword would not help me much, assuming I could claim it - not even with its enchantments.
The amulet could be useful...
Yes - it could. But it's not yours. You can't claim it. The amulet was now the property of our entire boarding party...
I glance at the beams above me; as I stuff my gear into a rucksack and wonder what to do next.
Just keep your gods damned mouth shut! You've pissed off enough people on this journey... You say something about the loot, it's likely that you'll just piss people off even more.
I briefly considered the faces of the others when I tried to put the plan in effect with the Rahadoum officer - the disgust or contempt, or distrust.
I sigh and glance around me.
I consider rifling the lockers of the pirates - as they are upstairs and I am down here, but dismiss it. At any moment one of them could come down.
If they saw you do that, you'd only end up making it worse.
Grabbing my gear, I head upstairs and get ready to get aboard the other ship.
Knowing I don't want another fight, I decide I won't say anything about the gear we were given.
The last thing I want to do at this point is cause any more problems - not with the press gang - not with the new pirates - not with the gods themselves...
While I wait for the others to pack, I'll roll a cigarette and smoke in silence.
Apologies via the PM - I missed the extra 150 gold and thought it was 100 gold, not 250. Sorry about that.
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Retcon with Flynn...
Variel just shakes his head at Flynn as the man tries to explain being harsh with everyone. it just didn't make sense to him regardless of the explanation. Why treat those that you have never dealt with in a cruel and demeaning way. It doesn't make sense and all it does is foster resentment and continued prejudice of what you have heard of people you don't know.
trying to at least humor Flynn Variel will speak in elven this time
Variel will continue to offer to clean the prisoners if they so wish.
Speaking of Rain, once he ha a chance, he will approach her. Listen Rain, I saw that look that you gave me when I spoke initially to Flynn about failure. I wasn't trying to egg him on just to help him realize that some good can still come from failure. That is all that I meant about him failing. Just wanted to clear the air since we have had our past and all. I am trying to respect him and his ways and thought you should know. Nice job today. You took the lead like you were born to it. I'd follow your lead anytime.
glancing at the pouch that Harrigan threw her, You mind if I take one of the healing potions. I know I have one already, but the other I don't think would do me as good. I'll defer to you though since he tossed them your way. What do you think about that other stuff Harrigan said? 'He treats well those that serve well'. Seems funny that he hands over his own stuff like that. Wish Plugg and Scourge would take a tip from him.
250gp
Request for potion of cure mod
She watches Variel's approach and then listens as he speaks, explaining his attitude and attempt with Flynn.
In low Elven she replies to him,
Reverting back to the Common tongue when Variel mentions requiring a healing potion from the satchel the Captain had tossed her way. "Aye, you may take a healing potion. I will have three remaining, and will decide how to divide the rest."
Having heard the question in relation to Captain Harrigan and Plugg, she adds discreetly, "I have a feeling the Captain understands the nature of trade and service. Plugg on the otherhand is more concerned with other things. We will have to watch him and Scourge."
Seijiro will walk up to Rain and bow slightly. "Rain-san, now that we're out of danger and have a moment, I'd like to talk to you about the things we found or were given. I'm hurt pretty bad and no one has offered to heal me, so could I get one of the potions of curing? Also, I'd like one of the invisibility potions. It could come in really handy for me at some point. I have a pretty good chance of moving around without being heard, so not being seen as well could be very advantageous. Since you have all the items, I thought I'd come to you with my requests, though I guess we need to all discuss who gets what, neh?"
He steps back away from Rain, to give her time to consider his query, and slips back over to the railing, where he looks out to sea for a bit.
I wonder who will end up as bosun here... Aretta? Jape? surely it would be one of their lackeys, though the politic thing to do would be to choose Rain, but Plugg is a bully like Flynn, and would never do something wise or smart like that. He'll pick one of his own toadies, that's for sure. This is likely to be a worse voyage than the Wormwood has been 'til now, but if we get to port quickly enough, perhaps the opportunity will arise to get off the Man's Promise and find another berth. Now THAT would be a sweet end to this adventure.
Before we head over to the new boat, Dhaavan sidles by Valeros and says to the Gillman, "Oye, mate. Jiro, over there looks like he ain't in a great way and could use a boost. Yea got any healing left in ya ta help 'im out?"
Valeros comes out of his stupor for a moment......and moves over to Jiro. Apologies. The horrors of the battle have taken their toll on me it seems and I was lost in thought. Of course I will heal you.
Seijiro breaks into a huge smile and bows to Valeros. "Thank you so much Valeros-san. I feel much better... only a slight scratch left and I'm sure that will heal on its own quickly. Most appreciated!"
While his clothes are still stained with blood and suffered a bit of damage, he physically looks much better himself. He looks down at himself and sighs softly. "I guess I should have got a sewing kit from ol' Grok before we came over here. Didn't even think about it. I don't suppose anyone has needle and thread I can borrow?
He pulls the rent edges of his torn kimono closed for the sake of decency and propriety then sighs. At least he was covered by his haramaki as well. He shrugs and then cracks a crooked, embarrassed smile even as he blushes.
Seijiro will walk up to Rain and bow slightly. "Rain-san, now that we're out of danger and have a moment, I'd like to talk to you about the things we found or were given. I'm hurt pretty bad and no one has offered to heal me, so could I get one of the potions of curing? Also, I'd like one of the invisibility potions. It could come in really handy for me at some point. I have a pretty good chance of moving around without being heard, so not being seen as well could be very advantageous. Since you have all the items, I thought I'd come to you with my requests, though I guess we need to all discuss who gets what, neh?"
He steps back away from Rain, to give her time to consider his query, and slips back over to the railing, where he looks out to sea for a bit.
"Jiro, if the others are in agreement too, I have no issue with you taking one of each of the potions. You already have a knack for slipping in and out of places unseen so the invisibility potion would certainly give you an even greater advantage."
"See to some healing from Valeros. I believe his healing magic is yet unspent."
Seijiro bows slightly to Rain. "I look forward to hearing what the others say then. Until then I shall practice patience."