One last thing, Rain here has agreed to stay on with us as our pilot. When she is at the helm, you do what she says regardless of who may have told you otherwise. The same goes for Jiro if he is piloting while Rain is busy elsewhere. The safety of the ship is paramount and if one of them is in control, you treat anything they say like it is an order from myself or Dhaavan. All right then, now that that is settled, we await the pleasure of Free Captain Pegsworthy to christen our ship and then we set sail.
Rain stands next to the others when Variel makes his announcement of her contracted position as Pilot. She is a little surprised at mention of her orders taken as word when she is at the helm, yet pleased nonetheless. The disclosure that Jiro would be aiding her at the helm when she had other matters to attend to also made her happy. He was certainly a good navigator and she had faith he would steer the ship right.
Rain smiles and nods at the crew, turning to Variel and inclining her head to him before standing at attention, eyes forward, waiting for Captain Pegsworthy.
With my gear stored on board, as well as Piper's meager belongings, I also make sure that the members of my gun crew remain together.
I want them to work closely together, to understand each other's mannerisms and methods of communication - so that when we sail and fight - they'll be properly prepared.
Make sure that you examine their berth's tonight - they need to have their bunks close together. They need to be live together, sleep together, eat together - because if we get hip deep in dung, I want them thinking as a team and acting as a team - a bloody unit, not a bunch of individuals clamoring about for individual glory...
I glance over the gear we have at this time; and wonder if the extra boards I required for a Fighting Top were purchased.
If they are not, I will take care of that myself before we sail.
On the docks,
...when variel announces Rain, dhaavan says aloud for the crew, "Oye, good ta 'ave yea back eh?" nudging the crewman next to him and nodding at others, cajoling them and whipping them into a fervored cheer for the elven pilot. He nods at she and Variel to give his approval of her order being law when she's at the Helm.
"Aye. Sounds like a plan mate," Dhaavan says, softening. He strolls off casually awaiting Horatio's convenience
Later with Flynn
Dhaavan sits casually as the man enters the private room, greeted by Jack who is perched on Dhaavan's shoulder. "So Flynn, what was it yea hd ta say? I understand Privacy and such, but here it's just us and yea know yea can trust me. " the wound man smiles at Flynn, genuine and welcoming, although his eyes show a canny sharpness beyond the young man's years.
Without benefit of Dhaavan's bargaining expertise, Seijiro takes a few minutes to cruise through the marketplace and visit Rickety as well, picking up a few things for the ship that were not on the 'list'. He and Tomo-chan stop by to visit the town druid and assure her Tomo-chan is being well cared for and happy and to thank her one last time for teaming them up.
On the docks,
[Dice=diplomacy]1d20+14
...when variel announces Rain, dhaavan says aloud for the crew, "Oye, good ta 'ave yea back eh?" nudging the crewman next to him and nodding at others, cajoling them and whipping them into a fervored cheer for the elven pilot. He nods at she and Variel to give his approval of her order being law when she's at the Helm.
"Aye. Sounds like a plan mate," Dhaavan says, softening. He strolls off casually awaiting Horatio's convenienceLater with Flynn
[Dice=sense motive]1d20+7
Dhaavan sits casually as the man enters the private room, greeted by Jack who is perched on Dhaavan's shoulder. "So Flynn, what was it yea hd ta say? I understand Privacy and such, but here it's just us and yea know yea can trust me. " the wound man smiles at Flynn, genuine and welcoming, although his eyes show a canny sharpness beyond the young man's years.
”In point of fact, I do not know the skills of the other new sailors who have come here recently.”
’It occurs to me that division would be seen as weakness by their folk.”
”As we have recently taken a ship, we wish to demonstrate a strong presence to foreign observers, such as the new captain we just met.”
”Given the nature of magic and magical observation – we may even now be being watched. I would prefer that we appear strong, rather than divided,” I add, with a neutral tone.
You notice my eyes are somewhat flat, and my skin is somewhat paler than you had recalled.
”I have made offerings this afternoon for… safe journeys.”
My eyes remain calm.
”When we get to sea; I’ll most likely won’t see you too much as I’ll be devoting most of my time to working with the newly constituted gun crew and various projects.”
”That said, I hope we have a good voyage.”
Seijiro oversees the onloading of last palette of goods onto the ship, covered in tarps. He has crew members store it down below in the hold. He also carries a small sack with him when he boards. When Variel has a few minutes after his talk with Rain, Seijiro will approach him with a little smile.
"So, cap'n, got a few minutes for a little chat? I've got somethin' ta talk with you about, private-like, if you've got the time."
On the docks,
[Dice=diplomacy]1d20+14
...when Variel announces Rain, Dhaavan says aloud for the crew, "Oye, good ta 'ave yea back eh?" nudging the crewman next to him and nodding at others, cajoling them and whipping them into a fervored cheer for the Elven pilot. He nods at she and Variel to give his approval of her order being law when she's at the Helm.
Rain marks Dhaavan's outward support of her commission as Pilot. She inclines her head toward the First Mate, as her show of respect and appreciation before the assembled crew. She was learning how to play the game; more quickly than she expected to.
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Glad that the officers and crew seemed to take well what he siad about Jiro and Rain, Variel goes about the rest of the afternoon with almost a bounce in his step. Certainly a weight has been lifted as he was struggling a bit with how to make sure everyone respected Rain and Jiro's position when they were piloting the ship. Of course there would be the minor scuffle and grumbling from some about taking orders from a woman and someone younger then them, but hopefully it wouldnt be beyond the control of the officers to handle.
During the day after making final inspections, Jiro approaches and asks for a talk. Figuring the safest place to talk would be the captain's quarters and it wouldnt be too suspicious for the captain to talk to an officer in private, Variel leads Jiro in.
Sure Jiro, what's gotten under your skin that I can help you with? Surely it can't be that bad already can it? I mean we just got the ship loaded and ready to set sail. IS there something wrong with the ship that you found?
Seijiro enters Variel's quarters, carrying a sack with a small load inside it. "Oh no, nothing like that, Variel.. nothing's wrong. It's just well..." He shuffles his feet a little, and looks down, then back at Variel. He chatters on hurriedly now.
"I know you're fond of yer new hat and all, but then it seemed that whoever was at the helm might be getting better use of it, especially if and when we hit a rough patch or somewhat. So in case yer willing to share it, I got you this. It's not from ship's stores, this is from me to you, so it didn't make a dent in our ship's money or nothin'."
Out of the sack, he pulls a really nice tricorn hat, and runs it around his hands, twirling it slightly before he presents it to Variel with a little bow.
"If you're so inclined to accept it anyway. No obligations or nothin' if you don't want to, I just thought.... " He lets the last words trail off as he offers the hat.
Seijiro, after talking with Variel, , heads out looking for Flynn.
When he finds him he beams the man a wide grin. "Flynn-san! I have good news for you. I know you a little by now, and I know you're going to want to tinker with the ship, maybe build a flying top like you did for our last berth, so I got a full palette of lumber for you to do your projects with. Its in the hold, covered with a tarp. I hope it's enough, but Rickety seemed to think it might hold you over til we hit our next port." He looks serious for a moment, then flashes Flynn one of his trademark smiles again. "Anyway, I hope it's enough for you and Piper to work with. Did you get everything else you needed?... If not, best speak up now, while I still have a couple of hours to hit the market before we sail."
"Offerings? Well that's awful cryptic. What kind of offerings are you talking about and to whom? You look mighty paler than usual."
Dhaavan stands and paces a minute before continuing, "Look mate have you been alright? Lately yea've been given ta strange color, dark moods, strange cursing adn then there was desecratin' Plugg and Scourge's bodies like that? Still don't get why, unless yer takin ta followin some dark gods or another but then why would yea take so ill ta a food raid on a village. I just can't make heads or tales of it, and it's startin ta worry me a little."
"I don't know of a lot of Blood-gods that I'd get cozy with. Things like that take heavy prices. Very heavy prices."
"I wanted to ask what was going on with Rain, and why yea started talkin that strange tongue. I get wanting to be private, like I said, but being that secretive is a concern. presentin a united front is one thing, but havin one is more important, and i want to make sure we do."
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Not quite sure what to expect, Variel prepares for the worst. As Jiro starts to explain himself and the reason he is here, Variel has to keep himself from laughing out loud. NOt wanting to offend Jiro, in fact quite the opposite, Variel hurries to explain himself. No Jiro I am not laughing at you at all. I am laughing because Rain herself expressed those same concerns to me earlier today. If I didn't know better I would have thought you were listening in our conversation. I will tell you the same that I told her. I wished to claim the hat as my education and skill with piloting a ship is for want of a better word lacking compared to you and her. The magical abilities bestowed upon the wearer would help me to refine my knowledge and abilities. Part of it was a hope that it would allow me to perform my job better, but the other was pride as well. I did not want to look foolish with my lack of knowledge and wisdom in piloting or running The Dread Lady. I can see however that while one of you is piloting the ship, the hat would better be put to use there than on my head in vain pride. Very well, you and Rain have convinced me. The pilot shall have use of the hat and I will gladly wear this one in its place. I do believe this hat compliments me more so anyways. Thank you Jiro not only for the hat but for your wisdom in making me see how vain pride benefits none of us.
After Variel tries the new hat on a thought comes to him. A quick question to you Jiro and I would like your honest opinion. If we find ourselves in a situation again where we are off the ship would you be offended if I wore the original hat? The reason I ask is because of the hat's other power. As a follower of Besmara, Rain or I could cause it to turn into a small boat if we need it to. I ask to make sure you are ok with this use of the hat Sandara gave us.
"I have no problem with that... It sounds fine to me. Obviously I can't make it turn into a boat or nothin' like that like you two can! And it's not that I have any objection to you wearing Sandara's hat, too. I just can see why you'd not want to be without a proper captain's hat if someone else were wearing Sandara's from time to time. Don't get me wrong that I think you're not fit to wear Sandara's hat too... I just thought.. well... from time to time, you know?" He blushes furiously, but smiles too.
Rain makes a mental note to seek Jiro out after Pegsworthy gives his blessing and they are free to prepare to leave port.
It would be good if she, Variel and Jiro could glance over the charts together and look at the alternate course Variel's has plotted in order to test The Dread Lady out in open water.
** spoiler omitted **
I turn an almost bland look to Dhaavan.
”Regarding my health? Yes… that is regrettable.”
”I have taken precise notes on the matter; and traced it to the incident right before our confrontation with the late mister Plugg and his ilk.”
”Naturally you would recall that a select few members of our group were struck by a mysterious disease. I can only stress a select few.”
”While I feigned a belief that it was a common disease – if you know me at all, you would know that is impossible.”
”The “diseases” that I suffered under was – in my specific opinion – a direct curse from the gods themselves, and nothing else.”
”It was not natural – nor was it random, in my opinion; a but a specific attack on certain members of ourp arty. And, be it through arcane or divine auspices – coincidently pressed upon those of us who – if they were afflicted by its nature and suffered the penalties – the party would feel that suffering far more acutely than if others were troubled by such a disease.”
”Naturally this was a curse of the gods; that only a few members of the crew would feel a sudden and deliberate disease before such an important battle was suspicious enough – but you’ll notice that, upon examination, the disease was diagnosed as a specific blood born pathogen. That is to say – there is no possible way I could have been infected by such a disease, unless I had been bitten by something that was a carrier – of course, I had not been bitten by anything, nor scratched or injured by anything that was carrier. You can trust me on that, I was very sure of it.”
My eyes look like gray death.
”It was suggested that the disease was possibly delivered through the air; that I had “breathed in” bad air, and suffered the effects of such a disease.”
My eyes narrow coldly.
”The minute I discovered that as some sort of “explanation” – I instantly knew that not only was it a lie, but in fact, proof that we had been assailed through either divine or arcane means.
"This much is clear – no medical journal ever had evidence of such a disease being so diagnosed as an air born, and I knew that evidence to the contrary of the rules of science and medicine would only evoke further lies – so I said nothing on it, but clearly I do not believe it.”
”After all, if I had sincerely believed that I was infected by a never before diagnosed air born disease – I would have instantly insisted that all with the symptoms should be quarantined to that island so that we didn’t effect the crew of our own ship – something I have been afraid of in the past.”
I spit a hard stream of tobacco juice to the leeward and scowl.
”I didn’t even waste my bloody time – why bother? There is no such disease and there never was – it seems, however, that some version of it appeared just in time to weaken our company before a rather challenging battle – very odd, don’t you think?” I say, giving you a hard look.
I turn away, my eyes on the sea – clearly my anger is directed at something beyond anyone in my company.
I turn back to stare at him.
”Did you not wonder why I insisted on pressing you for answers on the chance that Harrigan could find us and curse us from miles away? Isn’t it odd that right before a major battle that decided our fate the we should have only a few members of the company suddenly find they had an illness which weakened their combat effectiveness; an illness what was determined to be “air born” – which would mean that everyone the ship would likely have suffered for it; but only those who went into battle with Plugg suffered for it and no others?”
”But no – you and the others were quite certain that Harrigan would not waste his time on such matters; perhaps you’re right, I don’t know – but I know this: on that day I resolved that if I am forced to suffer under the casual whims of the gods, than I shall not slip quietly away under their desires. I will say nothing more on that subject, but it has not left me the same…”
I turn back to the sea.
”I spoke privately to Rain because I wanted to make sure we weren’t watched by this captain Pegsworthy and his men. He is an important man in these waters and his words aer weighed as such. I do not think it wise to give a man like that, with that many connections and power - the chance to see us in a bad reputation after our meeting."
I watch the waves and his first question suddenly prickled through me.
”Offerings? Oh yes – those,” I add with the ghost of a smile.
”They were an investment in blood. If you prefer – such things can be considered “spiritual currency”,” I add, giving an off-hand explanation.
His other comment surprises me a bit.
”Hmm? “Blood gods” – no, nothing like that,” I add with a grim smile.
”I have looked in many directions for answers on things, and have not found what I seek, nor have I found what I wished for. Is it any wonder that I turn a bit to faith when I look for certain guidance?” I add with a suddenly pleasant voice.
Seijiro, after talking with Variel, , heads out looking for Flynn.
When he finds him he beams the man a wide grin. "Flynn-san! I have good news for you. I know you a little by now, and I know you're going to want to tinker with the ship, maybe build a flying top like you did for our last berth, so I got a full palette of lumber for you to do your projects with. Its in the hold, covered with a tarp. I hope it's enough, but Rickety seemed to think it might hold you over til we hit our next port." He looks serious for a moment, then flashes Flynn one of his trademark smiles again. "Anyway, I hope it's enough for you and Piper to work with. Did you get everything else you needed?... If not, best speak up now, while I still have a couple of hours to hit the market before we sail."
”Arigato, Seijiro-san,” Horatio says, giving a polite bow.
”I will have my men begin work on the project starting the day after we weigh anchor. I believe we’ll need all the hands we can spare to get the ship out of the harbor.”
”At this time of year, especially with the heat, I would suspect that the winds are fairly dull now; at the least we’ll likely need a longboat to tow the ship out of the bay into the sea lanes, though that may not be correct, we shall just have to see.”
”But rest assured that things will be taken care of as quickly and safely as possible. Thank you again for any help you can proved.”
For now I’ll have my gear and berth moved to on the map.
The location guide suggests this is storage – but currently empty.
I’ll also move Piper’s gear and equipment there as well, and the supplies I need to craft or produce specific or quality goods.
I will have a low table in the work area to wok on projects there.
The day goes by in a flurry of activity as you get ready to set sail. Rickety and his crew help to load the vessel and assist you in getting it ready for the ocean. He also takes you privately below deck to the very bottom where he shows you the smuggling compartments. After what seems no time at all, the ship is ready.
A crowd gathers on the docks just as the sun begins to sink below the horizon. Your crew is lined up along the rail of The Dread Lady and look eager to depart and make their mark upon the Shackles. The officers are lined up on the dock edge along with Captain Merril Pegsworthy.
Captain Merril steps forth and begins to speak. Besmara! Lady of the savage sea! Queen of Pirates and Banshee of the Sea! May this ship and her crew know the freedom they so revere! May they travel the seas in camaraderie and fellowship! Păstra Beng sempe'ramanenta mușcă tocuri! Hei Feng wa kono fune o shukufuku shi, subete no hito ni kanojo o kōkō! Gozreh, Lord of Storm and Sky! May this ship be blessed with fair winds and calm seas as they pursue their prey! Finally, the traditional blessing of the Shackles! Good fortune and sure sails await what one that can crack Tidewater Rock! With that he takes the bottle of wine from Variel and smashes it against the bow of the ship. Blood red wine explodes out like an arrow piercing the heart of a great beast. Captain Merril turns to you all and says Good luck and safe voyage! Know that anyone who tweaks Harrigan's ugly nose is good by me. With that he raises his hand and a loud thundering boom is heard from the Strix and you see smoke coming from one of the port holes on the side. Apparently my crew wanted to send you off in style as well he says with a grin.
After his chat with Variel but before the blessing, Seijiro slips into the officer's quarters and claims a spot, then heads over to the officer's storage and stashes his few items in a locker there. Finally stripped down to just his clothing and weapons, relieved of extra baggage, he is ready for the formal launching of the vessel.
He joins the others at the railing and grins as Captain Pegsworthy says words blessing the vessel by a myriad of gods, all of whom would hopefully see her and those aboard her safe. He gives an uncharacteristic loud cheer at the gun salute and then blushes, still grinning.
"Finally back on the water again. A week on shore is too much. This feels wonderful!"
He stifles the urge to say something to the sailors lining the rails about getting to work, realizing it wasn't his job but Valeros' as bosun. Still, the ship wouldn't be going anywhere with the crew all standing at the rails, so to encourage them to get moving, he pushes off from the railing himself.
Now what do I do with myself?... I've got no real duties right now, maybe it's no wonder that Grok spent so much of her time drunk. I've got to find something else to do with myself between official duties.
He pulls out his harmonica as if considering playing a tune, then puts it away again... Finally, he settles down on a coil of rope that's not in use at present and watches as the crew get to work doing what until recently had been his own duties.
Plans –
1. First things first…
I will immediately begin work on measuring and analyzing the damaged or missing limbs of Ratline for the specific purpose of crafting him something more useful and substantial than a simple peg-leg and hook hand.
While I have already crafted Ratline both of these items during the trip to the port to begin with; the recent observations via Piper have encouraged me to believe that there is a possibility in creating something more unique than a simple hook or peg.
While I know I do not have the expertise for this task specifically, I will be taking notes in my journal on his condition and attempting to solve the problem – either by magical or mundane means.
2. I will make sure that the gun crew is formally assembled and plans are discussed.
They are (as already mentioned): Conchobar, Shivikah and Jak. Adding to this group I am putting Piper on the crew.
At this time I will rearrange their bunks (excluding Piper at this time) to make sure that they are sleeping next to each other. It is my opinion that familiarity will breed a stronger harmony with the group. A greater sense of “team unity” with these folk will be better when they end up manning the siege weapons.
During each day I will insist also that they spend at least one hour on weapons training with our modest siege weapons as a team; and I shall oversee it myself.
When they are not on that task, they we will be requisitioned for the job of building a “Fighting Top”.
This project was done before on our old ship – it is not difficult or challenging; but I want them to work on this project together as a unit, as I hope to put a weapon on that deck to be used to fire at enemies later.
Therefore, I want them to be familiar with it.
3. Other than carrying crafting supplies – I will be carrying my whip and mother’s dagger. The rest of my gear and weapons will be stored below; excepting my pistols and ammo belt, which I wear on my person for convenience sake.
I will recommend to the other officers that I feel it would be better to catalog and store all weapons and armor in weapons lockers – excepting for officers. There is no reason to be wearing weapons on ship, unless we are in danger of being attacked; in which case we can have the quartermaster issue them (technically the bousn – but I don’t think it really matters who does it formally) when the alarm is sounded.
Personally, I don’t want to deal with a mutiny, or attempted mutiny.
This idea is only a suggestion – I won’t try to push it if none of the other officers are interested.
4. Finally, I will spend most of my time with the “gun crew” and Piper – and time also with the common sailors. I will be working mainly with the gun crew, but the majority of my time will be working with the sailors specifically.
During the evening or “down time” I will be drinking and eating with them, and (weather permitting) – I will also participate in some sparing or boxing matches with them for sport and wagers.
That is the conclusion of my plans and actions while on the sea now that we’ve set sail.
The day goes by in a flurry of activity as you get ready to set sail. Rickety and his crew help to load the vessel and assist you in getting it ready for the ocean. He also takes you privately below deck to the very bottom where he shows you the smuggling compartments. After what seems no time at all, the ship is ready.
A crowd gathers on the docks just as the sun begins to sink below the horizon. Your crew is lined up along the rail of The Dread Lady and look eager to depart and make their mark upon the Shackles. The officers are lined up on the dock edge along with Captain Merril Pegsworthy.
Captain Merril steps forth and begins to speak. Besmara! Lady of the savage sea! Queen of Pirates and Banshee of the Sea! May this ship and her crew know the freedom they so revere! May they travel the seas in camaraderie and fellowship! Păstra Beng sempe'ramanenta mușcă tocuri! Hei Feng wa kono fune o shukufuku shi, subete no hito ni kanojo o kōkō! Gozreh, Lord of Storm and Sky! May this ship be blessed with fair winds and calm seas as they pursue their prey! Finally, the traditional blessing of the Shackles! Good fortune and sure sails await what one that can crack Tidewater Rock! With that he takes the bottle of wine from Variel and smashes it against the bow of the ship. Blood red wine explodes out like an arrow piercing the heart of a great beast. Captain Merril turns to you all and says Good luck and safe voyage! Know that anyone who tweaks Harrigan's ugly nose is good by me. With that he raises his hand and a loud thundering boom is heard from the Strix and you see smoke coming from one of the port holes on the side. Apparently my crew wanted to send you off in style as well he says with a grin.
...
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Variel once again thanks Pegsworthy for his services. You have the right of it though. I have had enough of Harrigan and his ilk that I would see him knocked down a notch. Not that we are in any place to harass him, but it would do my heart good to see others spite him as well.
VAriel stands on the sterncastle watching the crew busy below and above him, his new tricorn hat on for all to see. Waiting for Valeros to give the signal that all is prepped and underway, there was not much else for Variel to do but stand there being a figurehead for the moment. He is ok with that. The time would come when he would need to act and act fast. For now though everything else was structured and organized around him. All he had to do was give the order to set sail and let Rain and the others do their job.
Once Valeros gave the signal, Variel cried out, Let her go. Its time we sailed the seas again and found our destiny among the waters.
Once out of the port and in the open water again, Variel stays on the sterncastle enjoying the freedom again. He watches the sails fill with wind and the grace at which [i[The Dread Lady[/i] moves through the water. Even though it is almost nightfall, Variel does not wish to leave and go down for the night. Instead, he stays up and volunteers to take the first night shift at the helm unless Jiro offers first.
I will continue to work with Ratline.
In this project I shall enlist Piper specifically – I want her skills as a crafter; but I also suspect she may function well as a nurse in this project as they are both Halflings and I hope that she can keep Rat calm.
As there was no information about the existence of a small charcoal brazier for me to use below; nor was their the chance to get one or procure it after I requested it; I shall make a note to turn the project over to Piper while the others work on the Fighting Top.
I will inform her that I would like the project completed as soon as possible.
As the brazier should only be a small box to hold coals, with small pegs for legs, and a metal lid over it to rest things on that I wish to get hot, I doubt it will take her long to work on the project.
Our first night out and Seijiro is just enjoying being on the water, though he is a bit at odds with what to do with himself as there is little for the quartermaster to do. Still, he defers to Variel for the first night shift, knowing he, too, is itching to do something decisive in the guiding of the ship, especially at such an auspicious time.
Seijiro has found a coil of rope to sit on and eventually pulls out his harmonica and plays for the crew while they work, mostly soft, cadenced music, good for working to, not overly bright or cheery, but not morose or moody music either. Instead he tries to find something that will match the moods of the crew and officers... a bit of excitement and expectation and bright hopes.
Tomo-chan sits on Seijiro's shoulder, grooming his hair and chittering softly. Seijiro keeps Tomo on a short leash, at least initially, until he's sure the little fellow has his 'sea legs' and isn't going to do anything unwise, like fall overboard or get underfoot.
On Variel's command, Rain steers The Dread Lady out of port and into open water with skilful ease. She is excited and anxious at the helm of such a large ship, and would prove herself and keep the Lady on a straight course and afloat.
Rain is mindful of the weather conditions, wind, and look of the sky and sea. She is hoping to spot a familiar coastline or something out of the ordinary. The smell of the sea air and the sun beating down on her as her hands hold steady on the wheel gives her a true sense of purpose and exhilaration.
She senses Variel over her shoulder on the sterncstle, surveying all about him throughout the day.
At dusk, Variel approaches and informs her that he will man the helm throughout the night. "You are not tired, Nikerym?", Rain enquires.
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When Rain turns to him and inquires about staying up all night at the helm, he smiles at her pleasantly. No, Rain, I am not tired. I feel invigorated tonight as I have only felt a couple of times my entire life. Once was this morning and the other was when I found for the first time Shanxia on the island. I feel as if we were meant to be here and all the world is as it should be. I shall be fine tonight and then I can rest tomorrow morning before you come and educate me. Besides I think it would do the crew well to see that the captain is willing to endure the same as he will ask of them. Perhaps to ensure I get a decent rest though I will use the lovely hammock we found. Not that I wish to be considered soft, but it would not do at all to be tired and asleep when you teach the finer points of geography and nature.
Variel will forgoe the hat that evening proffering to wear the one that Jiro gave him.
Profession sailor if taking ten is not an option
Perception
Fort check for fatigue if needed
At Variel's mention of this morning's invigoration, Rain's gaze levels on him and her turquoise eyes stand out vividly against the quickening sky.
Jiro's gentle music wafts around them like a silken web. It has a lulling effect and brings a deeper gratification to the day.
"I shall convey as much knowledge as I can during our meeting on the morrow." In lower voice, "I will be your teacher and you my student." There is a light tone to her voice during the last statement, like she is teasing him or sharing in a private joke.
She then calls over to Jiro, "Pretty melodies, Jiro. Perfect for such an evening as this."
Rain is not overly tired herself and lingers for some idle banter before retiring to rest. It would be a long day tomorrow and an exciting one.
Seijiro smiles at Rain around the harmonica, his eyes glinting with pleased appreciation. He continues playing for quite some time... enjoying the relaxation after the rush of the final preparations for sailing that afternoon. He listens to the voices of the sailors among the rigging and finally feels the call of his bunk.
He heads over to the helm and chats with Variel for a very brief moment. "All well, Variel-sama? If you need me, I'll be in my quarters, if that's alright with you. Otherwise, see you in the morning."
Then, sure that all is well, he and Tomo cross the main deck to his quarters where he settles in for the night, lulled swiftly to sleep by the gentle rocking of his berth.
Sometime later into the evening, after the majority of the officers have gone to sleep...
The sounds of laughter and whispers echo in his ears as he rocks up on the ball of his feet.
His hair is pulled back and knotted with hemp. He is wearing loose trousers and his shirt is off, his feet are bare to catch better footing on the wooden slats of the deck.
Standing at his elbow Piper takes a long roll of cloth and begins to wrap it tightly around his fingers, as he slowly curls them into fist – her deft hands quickly wrap them tighter and more secure as he bunches them up and begins to crisscross the bandages slowly down his wrists.
”Oye, chief – I ain’t sure on this idea; I don’t think you can beat him, eh?” she says, casting a nervous glance at the figure looming the dark shadows, somewhat obfuscated by the light which shines down beneath the metal slats into the empty hold.
’Aye,” he responds with a numb voice.
”Yeah, but I mean – that basterd will grind you up, chief. God’s damn! You ain’t going to win, hey?”
”Just wrap the damn bandages, I don’t want my bloody wrist broken,” he spits out, his eyes staring ahead, catching the gleam of moonlight off the hard muscles playing under the oiled skin of the hulking form in front of him.
”Sure thing, chief, sure thing,” she adds hastily as she complies, seeing the look in his face.
”Come on you pox-mucked, whoreson’s – place your bloody bets,” growls a hoarse whisper in the dark; and quickly others line up to doll out silver pieces – some gold – all in a heap.
The odds where long against him, and he spat the foulness from his mouth.
The two men stare at each other and Ratline stumped up from the shadows and stares sidelong at Horatio.
”You sure about me calling this match…”
”Just do it – you’ve got a fair eye, and everyone knows you’re trusty,” Horatio responds.
”Besides – if anyone complains, just say it’s a poxing order,” he adds, his lips forming a rare grin, and many of the others chuckle a little nervously.
Ratline shrugs awkwardly.
”Alright, than – orders it is, sir,” he says with a somewhat lopsided smile.
Holding up a small tin cup and a spoon – he swiftly gives the cup a metallic whack.
From the shadows the somewhat simpleminded but powerfully built man known as “Owlbear” lumbers forward, his frame dominated by heavy knotted muscles suddenly charges out to crash into Horatio with a simple, eager brutality.
Even as he moves forward Horatio’s hips swing back a bit, and his leg pivots slightly, letting Owlbear’s momentum carry him forward to charge against his chest. At the same time, Horatio’s own fist swings around behind the powerful man and jabs hard and swift into Owlbear’s kidneys.
The brutish man with the shaved head bellows, and the sailors who have gathered below decks to watch or wager, cheer or curse the luck at the punch.
Horatio steps back, his bare feet sliding across the deck, and he ducks slightly dodging out of the way of the heavier man’s fist. His own fist slides forward quickly, and it drives deep into the solar plexus of the man, who grunts in pain, gasping a bit.
A quick step forward and he follows it up with another set of punches, but though the timing was good, Horatio’s luck was not. The blows are fast and fierce, but they smash hard against Owlbear’s forearms as he raises them just in time to ward of any serious damage, and suddenly jabs forward hard with his own blow.
Horatio dodges it quickly and comes back for a counterattack – but he misjudged badly the ferocity he had awakened in Owlbear, for as soon as the first blow was launched, the larger brute made no effort to block his torso and swung another punch at Horatio’s face.
The young gunner didn’t expect it. It was a stupid move – tactically unsound; his enemy just left himself wide open.
But it was that very same intensity which made Owlbear both so unpredictable in a fight, and so dangerous; for that second hand pushed forward a massive fist right across the bridge of Horatio’s nose; cracking it open and letting a wide flow of blood gush out.
”Gods!” he cried out, his eyes clenched shut at the blinding pain, holding up his hands to ward off another blow; but his efforts were in vain.
Owlbear moved on the blood like a shark; and swung hard.
Only fate or good fortune allowed Horatio’s flailing arms to manage to cause the blow to glance aside and smash into his chest; the wound causing him to stagger back against his comrades, who pushed him forward back into the fray – cheering him on.
Shaking his head, he felt the flow of blood from his nose drip down over his lips and suddenly sucked a large gulp into his mouth, holding it. When Owlbear charged forward gleefully to bash him with another punch, Horatio spat out the blood into his assailants face; momentarily blinding him with the blood and spit.
Owlbear’s swing went wild and the doctor ducked back, the force of the air swishing by him rushing past his face.
He swung hard, and his fist was fast and direct, it smashed up against Owlbear’s cheek, and he felt his fingers on his left hand scream in pain as they jammed hard and dislocated from the knuckle joint, despite the heavy wrapping.
Owlbear stepped back, his massive head lowering, his eyes glowering darkly – the sounds of yells and cat-calls sounding around them in the dank hold.
Horatio’s left hand was swollen and in pain, he held his arm up – not to punch, but to block. His other hand was ready in a fist and as he moved forward he made a fierce jab at Owlbear’s cheek again – but the gnarled corsair in front of him simply ducked his head down and smashed forward into Horatio’s fist with the dense part of his forehead.
The two men both felt pain shoot through each of their bodies, and it wracked them each in their own way – but when Horatio had spent his time in libraries and academies Owlbear had spent his time before the mast; feeling the gentle remonstrations of the cat across his body; while the whispers of the lash were his only councilors. The pain passed swiftly for Owlbear, and he shrugged it off hard even as Horatio was still wincing under the suffering which throbbed from his right hand.
With a bellow he charged hard at the gunner; his heavy hand smashing hard against the doctor’s nose again, as if it was nothing but a blood covered target.
The pain was intense and sudden, Horatio still too agonized from the head butt to his fist, which nearly sprained his wrist, and would have if he hadn’t wrapped them beforehand.
Owlbear roared out with savage glee, his other hand swinging around like a hammer stroke into Horatio’s chin; the blow vicious and powerful, spinning the doctor around and against his fellows, who again pushed him forward.
But the next blow was telling, for it crushed against Horatio’s left eye, and he saw stars swimming before him and slipped to the deck on one knee; his right arm raised to ward off another blow, but it wavered as he was feeling the drunken dizziness from loss of blood and too much sudden injury.
Owlbear lifted his heavy fist and smashed down Horatio’s arm, the blow nearing felling the doctor.
A slow, almost deliberate aim allowed Owlbear to pause – than swing his fist hard into the doctor’s left temple, slamming Horatio hard into the deck.
Laugher, cheers and some booing bounced around the wooden hull, barely muffled by the freshly tarred beams.
A signal from Ratline and the lads move forward to check Owlbear’s next flurry of punches as the batltelust has him full on. He looked enraged, than startled – as if suddenly realizing he beat down the man who had helped him gain his freedom, and treated him so nicely when others scorned him.
A sudden slop of chilly seawater slams into Horatio’s face, and he startles hard, even as the lads scramble to collect or give up their earnings.
”By Besmara’s Tit’s little man; you may know how to handle those sodding black powder weapons – but you better learn how to duck, you sorry basterd,” comes a booming voice and deep belly laugh from Shivikah as she presses her foot into Horatio’s ribs and rolls him over on his back; his good eye blinking the pain from it as he groans in agony from the deck beneath her.
She laughs again at the groan, and reaches down a powerful arm to grab him and jerk him hard to his feet.
Horatio staggers a bit under the unfamiliar swaying of his body – not from ocean, but from his head. He blinks his good eye, the other nearly swollen shut – and he whisper a few words that cannot be understood even as the others grub and scramble for coin around him.
A shimmering light glitters over his flesh for a second, and the blood still pouring from his nose seems to congeal and stop running. His head clears a bit, but it still throbbing. He turns and looks at Owlbear – wounded, but not nearly as bad as he was.
Reflecting on the fight, he realizes that some of Owlbear’s attacks were far more brutal than his own; and believes that the larger man may have forgotten himself in the bloodlust and struck out with rage blows which were far from non-lethal.
Even so – he limps to Owlbear slowly, and stares up at the heavy man who regards him with a simple-minded face now etched with guilt for what he had done to his friend.
Horatio laughs.
”Well done, you sorry son of a… hell; it was well done Owlbear,” he says, even as the crew watches the exchange between an officer and a sailor who had beat him.
Horatio lifts his swollen hand and places it on Owlbear. More magical light glitters between them, and Owlbear’s own wounds slowly recede; though both men are still certainly wounded.
Looking up the others, he attempts to smile, the pain still throbbing in his head.
”Hey; I lost – sorry for any of you who bet for me – but just give me a brace of bloody pistols and I’ll show you what’s what,’ he says in a brave but raw voice, yet it was loud enough so that everyone in the hold could hear him.
”And if any of you were dumb enough to bet on me over Owlbear you deserved to lose your money,” he adds, evoking some laughs from the crew around him ”but, what the hell? Among mates I reckon I can’t leave you losing out like that. So on account of my poor showing, and also, by way of saying Thank you for your crazy trust – I’m covering all lost wages,” he says with a grin and a weak wave.
The crew in the hold laughs at that comment, and there is general praise for his courage and ability to take a punch, but get right up again. Not to mention the fact that he had the decency to cover the losses of anyone who trusted in him.
”By the bloody gods... Oye, will someone get me to a place where I can sleep heavy? That was a gods damned battle royal, and my whole damn body is aching for some kind of rest.”
”But as for you sorry basterds, drink up and enjoy yourselves – but not too much, on account of tomorrow we got work to do – but don’t worry, I’ll be right there with you to do it,” he adds a little weakly.
General laughing and some scattered applause can be heard at his words, and Horatio, helped by Shivikah and Jak, staggers to a hammock which he collapse on, even as many of the lads grin on at the fight and his generosity.
Gods damn, that went well. Now I can get some bloody sleep…
Assuming our first night at sea again is uneventful, Seijiro wakes early and hops out on deck, looking forward to the day ahead. He climbs the rigging, letting Tomo climb on his own too, and surveys the waters surrounding them, enjoying the heights.
After a brief time up in the rigging, chatting with some of the crew who are on duty, he climbs down and checks in with Variel to see if he needs relief until Rain takes over the daytime helm.
"That's a good idea, Flynn-san, for Dhaavan and myself to find us friends and contacts in the towns we visit peacefully. How about it Dhaavan-san? Sound good to you, too? We can meet folks and maybe you can win them over. I might even be able to find us a few contacts that aren't so... well... I guess you'd say 'easy' to ferret out. We'll have to see how it goes." Seijiro gives Dhaavan a broad wink and a wicked grin.
Towns often have collectives of those who live and work outside the law. I can probably meet some of these folks and we can possibly trade with them for some items that might not be available in the open markets. Or sell goods through them that the open market won't bear.
"So if you find the folks what yer referring to, I'd be more than ready ta make arrangements wit 'em. I do have a way of getting folks ta talk, so if yea point me in the right directin, I'll bet I ken track em down by word o' mouth." Dhaavan and Jiro would make a good pare for that.
Dhaavan bows a fond fare-well to his acquaintances at Rickety's tossing a wink at a young maid, secretly hoping to have reason to come back to the squib's for further diversion, but hungry for the next adventure and what fun there will be to be had.
Quick description of Dhaavan's plan (more to come tonight when i get home from RL game)
1 As mate, Dhaavan strolls around the ship keeping an eye on the work the crew is doing, making sure they stick to the assignments Valeros has given them
- Interestingly, when Dhaavan does finally turn in, Jack's sharp eyes can be seen all over the ship watching the crew, doing Dhaavan's job as the sorcerer recuperates.
2 Dhaavan does assist the crewmen, not lord over them. He uses his Prestidigitation to clean away particularly grimey spots to make things a bit easier on the swabs, as well as taking care to keep Rickity's fine detail-word and craftsmanship prestine.
He'll also lent a mage-hand to make sure no ropes slip, mostly to ensure nobody gets hurt and can't work well enough.
through his hands-on and encouraging motivational style, the jovial mage keeps the crew in high spirit, and working harder and more effectively than they had managed under Harrigan.
He does pay close attention the see how the Rahadoumi and the 5 from Rickety's are acclimating.
GM: we don't have any details on the new recruits? are there going to be any, or at least a number up on the page? not to rush, jsut asking what the plan is.
Seijiro watches Dhaavan at work as mate and grins from time to time. He DOES have a way with people, that's for sure, and using his magic to help out too!
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You have three new recruits, all three humans of various backgrounds. Riisa, is a Varisian young woman of about 23 with long black hair. She is flirty and fun and takes to the crew with an easy grace. Johnson, can be identified by his signature red shirt. He is eager to go on what he calls "away missions" from the ship and he says he will die for the crew if need be. Damien, is a young man of pale skin and jet black hair who is constantly looking over his shoulder as if someone is chasing him....no one is, he's just paranoid.
"That's a good idea, Flynn-san, for Dhaavan and myself to find us friends and contacts in the towns we visit peacefully. How about it Dhaavan-san? Sound good to you, too? We can meet folks and maybe you can win them over. I might even be able to find us a few contacts that aren't so... well... I guess you'd say 'easy' to ferret out. We'll have to see how it goes." Seijiro gives Dhaavan a broad wink and a wicked grin.
Towns often have collectives of those who live and work outside the law. I can probably meet some of these folks and we can possibly trade with them for some items that might not be available in the open markets. Or sell goods through them that the open market won't bear.
"So if you find the folks what yer referring to, I'd be more than ready ta make arrangements wit 'em. I do have a way of getting folks ta talk, so if yea point me in the right directin, I'll bet I ken track em down by word o' mouth." Dhaavan and Jiro would make a good pare for that.
Dhaavan bows a fond fare-well to his acquaintances at Rickety's tossing a wink at a young maid, secretly hoping to have reason to come back to the squib's for further diversion, but hungry for the next adventure and what fun there will be to be had.Quick description of Dhaavan's plan (more to come tonight when i get home from RL game)
1 As mate, Dhaavan strolls around the ship keeping an eye on the work the crew is doing, making sure they stick to the assignments Valeros has given them
- Interestingly, when Dhaavan does finally turn in, Jack's sharp eyes can be seen all over the ship watching the crew, doing Dhaavan's job as the sorcerer recuperates.
2 Dhaavan does assist the crewmen, not lord over them. He uses his...
At some point during breakfast he will give Piper a small scarp of paper, neatly folded.
”This is your project today – get it done as soon as possible. You can start work on it after breakfast,” he tells her quickly and quietly, his tone neutral.
Piper takes the paper without opening it, nods, and than tucks it into her tunic.
The two will continue to eat their breakfast; after which Horatio will go about his business with the crew and work and Piper will excuse to work on the project privately.
He will first examine Owlbear to see how the man is doing; if he did not fully recover during the actions during the night before, he will heal him. Otherwise, he will direct what healing he can on himself.
When the crew are on duty he will take his turn with them; working the rigging.
During the afternoon – he will begin to sing a shanty while working with the men, to invigorate them.
Chorus
Well, I’ve a whale of tale to tell you lads –
- a whale of a tale, it’s true!
From the bloody swords, and the ships I love; the sea beneath and the sun above
A whale of a tale and it’s all true; I swear by my tattoo!
We were all a’ drinking – when we tangled with a press gang;
We woke on their ship – and right away things weren’t the same
They beat us hard, too – then they figured we were tame!
But they were fools
- as you will hear;
And for their fate I’ll shed no tear,
– cause we cut their throats from ear to ear!
Chorus Repeats
Now we had a ship, lads – and we sailed her off to this here port
It ain’t a palace – but we sure as hell ain’t the kingly sort
But food and drink, now – well for me that’ll serve for a royal court!
For the grub was great;
– and the drink was strong;
We wined and dined and sang our songs
– well you know the score, now sing along!
Chorus Repeats
We’re on the sea now – where’s the port we’re headed too?
Who cares for that lads – if loot is split twixt me and you
You know it is, mates – for we’re all for one here in this crew!
From the captain there,
– to the swabs below
For fame and loot; come on, let’s go
– now grab that rope and “All sails, Ho!
Chorus Repeats
.
She will go below, examine the document that Horatio gave her, and then she will take the appropriate materials from his supplies.
She is using Horatio’s Masterwork Carpentry Tools to do this crafting project.
It is considered a “typical item” – though it naturally has somewhat magical/religious properties which are involved for a DC of 15.
In any case – she will work in private, and make the roll to craft.
As suggested, this will represent her work completed in a week – I will than divide that total by 7 to determine how many days it takes to complete.
To make this faster, she will use "accelerated crafting" - which grants a +10 to the DC - for a total DC of 25.
Despite Horatio’s request for help with the Fighting Top, the note and specifications at least indicates that he wants that project for the Fighting Top turned over to his Gun Crew and wants her to work on this project specifically.
She makes it her chief priority; with the exception of meals, until is completed.
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Variel gladly steps aside come first light and let's Jiro take his turn at the helm. Glad that he didn't ground the ship the first night Variel is still quite wide awake as he grabs a light snack. Before heading down to the hammock for the next eight hours, Variel informs Jiro that if possible, he would like to have a meeting with him and the rest of the officers later to determine their course of action. Briefly Variel mentions taking the ship out for come maneuvers and get the feel of her before heading the the shipping lanes. This way everyone hopefully has an idea of what he is thinking before the meeting so they have time to consider their opinion.
As Variel retires, he gives quick instructions to Dhaavan as he passes him to wake him if he needs anything, but otherwise Variel is not to be disturbed by any bt himself, Rain, or Jiro. Thanking him for his diligence Variel closes the door. Must get a spell or mundane lock on the door to make sur I have some privacy from the crew. Can't have them coming in if they have any problems. Need to go through the proper channels first. Would be quite useful. Maybe I can have Flynn or his apprentice afix this lock I bought to the door. closing the curtains on the four windows to shut out some of the morning light, Variel lies awake for the first few minutes wondering what the day will bring and where fate is taking them all. With those thoughts Variel drifts off to a deep sleep helped by the rocking of the ship.
The first day at sea has progressed without incident. The crew seem to be thriving under your guidance and the newly outfitted ship. They go about their tasks with verve and vigor and seem keen to impress their new officers.
The first day at sea has progressed without incident. The crew seem to be thriving under your guidance and the newly outfitted ship. They go about their tasks with verve and vigor and seem keen to impress their new officers.