Vlad/Crow rises fairly easily this morning. Rigging isn't easy work, but it's a damn sight easier on the low back than swabbing. At Beket's mention of the blade, he gives him an affirmative nod. "I could indeed get some use out of it. But I may need some help getting it. I'm not what you would call 'sneaky,' " he says, pointing at his large feet.
As they head upstairs and are blocked, he catches Beket as he's pushed back to the rear rank. Sigh, I had hoped they'd skip this part. Ratline had the right of it.
"Gentlemen," he says through gritted teeth. "What seems to be the problem here?"
"P'rhaps ya missed the bell ringing, eh? Captain's orders and all that." I prefers the less violent solution, but some men you just can't reach without a foot up their arse.
Beket would've given him a nod in regards to the blade, making his way closer when one of them put their hands on him and shoved him back. Beket's teeth were on display then as he let out a low, feral growl.
Crow spoke up and was trying to handle this diplomatically but Beket, Beket was already expecting the worst. This was what he was expecting; a group of bastards thinking themselves bigger than him. He would reach from behind him, drawing that club quietly as he spoke in that strange tongue. "Fuil, Leòin, agus Salann. Fiodh mar chloich" For those that were behind him would see the worn club seem the darken in color and straighten out.
"I would suggest you listen to Crow. I would hate for any of us to be late."
Besmara's Blessings, already.... Bessie wasn't sure what was going on, but as last in line, she was sure she would get the worst of it once they got on deck.
Well, I literally have my new friends backs now.
"Oh, but Master Scourge is countin' on it," Lonegan says and swings.
Everyone was expecting but the allies waited to see if diplomacy would win the day. Alas, it did not. The instigators gain initiative.
When Lonegan swings they all go for the nearest of the newbies.
(all damage is non-lethal, just punching/kicking)
Lonegan takes a swing at Beket and the man would dodge back out of the way. Diplomacy had failed but in truth, Beket preferred this; it kept things nice and simple for him. It seemed that Master Scourge had it out for them already and Beket was more than ready to have an enemy to focus upon. "Bad move, mate." Beket would grin, swinging the enhanced club around at Lonegan.
Bessie ducks under the hammocks and takes a step behind Crow. Izibusiso! She says as she presents her forearm, a reddish flare flashing across the symbol there. She casts Bless upon her allies-Beket, Vlad/Crow, Nasifi, Guillaume, Bleepos, and herself.
And why by the Seawraith, would Scourge want us late? Bessie asks in her most incredulous tone.
I must tell Beket I am re-evaluating my wait and see philosophy...
Guillaume unleashes a torrent of water at Jape. He's careful to use less force than he could though, merely trying to dissuade him, and not crush his bones.
"I hope ya won't take this ass-whippin' personally," Crow quips as he throws a right hook at Fipps.
nl
Without her alchemical supplies or even something to use as a weapon, Nasifi is for all practical purposes helpless. She tries backing away from one of the pirates, and takes a swing at the other. Really though she's just hoping to avoid getting hit more until the fight is over.
Bleepos smiles, threateningly. As the goblin opens his mouth, more and more teeth appear - and they're all considerably sharp.
Attacking Bleepos and friends! Bad idea! - he says, chuckling behind his teeth - Bleepos hopes you don't surrender. Hey, Longshanked Crow, if I eat one of them maybe we can say it feel off the rigs to the sea? Bleepos misses red meat. It's comfort food.
With that said, he advances towards the one who attacked him before, and using his bite tried to trip the man.
Crow looks down at the little goblin with the big sharp teeth and let's out a boisterous laugh. Oh, we're gonna be goood buddies. "Oh, you lads don't know what yer in fer!"
Yeah, I like these guys! Bessie smiles at her new found friends and the chaos around her. 'ese are the moments a pirate lives for.
[ooc]had Vladimir step into the gap left by Nasifi and lays into Tate[ooc]
Beket cracks Lonegan in the ribs just below his armpit when the latter swings at him. But, Beket's follow up swing just misses Lonegan. Guillaume water blasts Jape, bruising the half-orc's chest, drawing a curse from the man. Bleepos snaps at Fipps when the man swings at him and then follows up by biting Fipps' ankle and causing the big man to fall. Vladimir steps into the gap left by Nasifi and smacks Tate in his oversized nose.
"Goodnight!" Lonegan coughs as he steps back with a warding hand toward Beket, "The big man's armed."
Fipps stands [AOO by Bleepos] and kicks at Bleepos. Maheem and Bansion each take a shot at Beket trying to overwhelm him before he can seriously hurt anyone else (AOO on one of choice). Jape swings at Guillaume again trying to get even. And, Tate lashes out at Vladimir.
Lonegan backs away from Beket, warning the others that he is armed and dangerous. With a vicious smile upon his face, the large man laughs and gives a vicious grin.
"You're right about that, friend. Should've known better than to bite at a Runetooth!" Two of the men come in swinging and Beket swings again at, aiming for Maheem this time. However, he can feel the power of the Goddess flowing through him this time.
Bansion's fist connects with Beket's face, making the man stumble only for a moment before he grinned wider, viciously now. "That was a mistake, friend."
He moved quickly through the group, swiping at any of them until he could get himself in a good position behind one of them. With Vlad acting as a distraction, Beket swung that club again with a dangerous accuracy.
They dodged underneath his attacks but Beket would take the staircase, looking towards the others. "Come on! Get up on the main deck, leave the bastards down here!" Even if they kicked each of their asses, it would be for naught if they didn't end up on deck in time.
Vlad parries Tate's punch with his left arm while throwing a mean uppercut to his chin.
nl
"Nasifi, Bessie, Sandara. If ya can scoot past to get up on the deck, go right ahead. After all, ladies first." He throws a fierce grin to his companions.
Nasifi takes one more swipe at the crewman within her reach, more as a show of solidarity with the others who are being attacked than any serious attempt to make a difference. Then she takes Vlad's advice makes a dash for the stairs.
Flotsam! Uttering an old sailors curse Bessie follows after Nasifi. The boys can handle this better if we are out of harms way. And I can patch em up later if needed.
Bleepos takes another hit, and starts to get dizzy. Yet, the Goblin smiles - tasting the blood in his mouth - and circle around the enemy, to flank him with Guillaume. He moves on all fours, noticing the men don't have weapons in hands to take the opportunity to attack him on his move.
The small green creature takes a bite at the man, letting his sharp teeth sink on the skin of his leg.
Hee... Hee... - he giggles excited, yet somewhat groggy with the kicks he took, then starts singing - Roll, roll, roll your boat... Run from bloody Bleepos! Scared, scared, scared, scared, your flesh is in my teeth!
Tate, Lonegan, and Maheem wave off, they want no more. "Bloody hell, the thing's trying to eat me," Fipps says as he high steps it away from Bleepos. He may have decided to go back in for some more but with half their crew calling it quits, Fipps, Bansion, and Jape back off as well. The new crew are able to move on up the steps.
Lonegan gives them the stair and then heads up when it's clear. The others follow. They are still quite wary and so do not go tumbling down as hoped when Bessie hits them with her surge. However, they don't retaliate at this point. Everyone heads topside and makes it for formation.
Nothing new is passed but jobs change up:
Bleepos Man the Bilges Vile and sweaty work cleaning out the bilges (area A11), requiring a DC 10 Strength check. The PC must also make a DC 12 Fortitude check to avoid being fatigued at the end of the shift
Beket: Rat Catcher Catching rats and other vermin belowdecks, requiring either a DC 10 Stealth check, Survival check, or Dexterity check to catch and kill enough rats, cockroaches, and beetles for a good day’s work
Nasifi: Fishing Catching tonight’s supper using the ship’s nets. A DC 10 Profession (fisherman) or Survival check provides enough fish. A failed check results in a day in the bilges as punishment the following day
Bessie: Hauling rope and knot work Tying and untying knots in the ship’s ropes and moving heavy coils of rope from one part of the ship to another, requiring a DC 10 Profession (sailor) or Strength check. The PC must also make a DC 12 Fortitude check to avoid being fatigued at the end of the shift.
Guillaume: Runner Passing messages to the crew and officers of the Wormwood in all parts of the ship except officers’ cabins (areas A4 and A5), requiring a DC 10 Acrobatics check and DC 12 Fortitude check. Failing the Constitution check results in the PC being fatigued at the end of the shift.
Vladimir: Mainsail Duties: Tough work raising and lowering the mainsail, requiring a DC 10 Profession (sailor) or Strength check. The PC must also make a DC 12 Fortitude check to avoid being fatigued at the end of the shift.
Guillaume spends the day dashing around the ship, passing messages back and forth with little noticeable effort. While moving around, he takes a bit of time to look around the Middle Hold.
Beket grins a wicked smile at the crewmates that finally backed off, the club being hidden underneath the rags of clothing he wore as the magic within it faded away and disappeared.
"Let that be a lesson to you and your "Master". Fight us...and we'll bite your faces off." Once the rest of his friends made it up the stairs, Beket would follow and quickly ascend to the main deck just in time for roll call.
Assigned to hunt for supplements to the chef's meal, Beket scrounges through the lower decks. He waits patiently, leaving crumbs here and there and stalking the fattest of the rats. By the day's end, he has them tied by the tail and a bag full of scrumptios, crunchy beetles and other insects.
In his hunts, he takes his time to learn what he can about the main deck. Observing others and seeing if there was anything out of sorts or unusual upon the main deck of the Wormwood.
It is hard for Bessie to hide her happiness at having found kindred spirits, those blessed by Besmara, aboard this vessel. She is pleased that the Pirate Queen has granted her such grand shipmates, even if the current crew is lacking. And that fact that Scourge's bullies had not hampered them in the least gives her great pleasure. It is truly a sign of favor from the godess. And the goblin, that marvelous creature, truly he possesses a pirate's heart.
Bessie spends the day hauling lines for booms, spars, and stays and adjusting the rigging as needed. Despite this she takes a few moments to inspect the foredeck as she seems to gaze over the prow towards the horizon.
To Guillaume, as he passes,
She also looks for a moment to get close enough to Beket, to speak softly,
Besmara rewards those who out fight, out smart, or out run their enemies. I am with you my friend.
Crow can't help but laugh when the other sailors back off. "HAR! I hope you got a good mouthful of them, Bleepos! Some folks just has to learn the hard way." It was good Beket had that cudgel on him as well. Those curs will think twice before they mess with us again. Huh, I'm thinking of this group as an 'us' now, am I? I guess we are all in the same dire straits. He smiles to himself as he lines up with the others.
As for the job, mainsail work is hard, but again, not anything he hasn't done before. It's a fine workout during the day. He's tired, but not so much as it'd affect him later. Might need to ask the goblin if he can retrieve that blade for me. Might have a nice surprise if any of the crew try something like this morning again.
Bessie's comment as he moves about the deck brings a grin to the big man's face. He gives a little nod, looking back at some of the scowling bastards who are still sporting their bruises and lumps.
"I ain't the smartest one lass, but I know the right side when I see one. We protect our own and we'll outlast anyone on this godforsaken boat." There was a confident swagger in the man's steps, though he knew that he would need to be careful still. They were the fresh meat and this setback wouldn't be enough to put them back.
Nasifi had learned enough going out on her father's fishing boat when she was young to manage well with the fishing net. Since her job requires her to spend time in two places, the deck for the fishing, and the kitchen to deliver the fish as she catches them, she decides to she can't be watched quite as closely as would be normal. She spends some extra time when she gets chances to look around the kitchen better.
Bleepos gets sent down to work the bilges.
He doesn't do much in the bilges but he does have a bit to search around undisturbed. It is after he looks around and realizes he has done nearly nothing that he goes into a bit of a frenzy to get something done and wears himself out in doing so. (failed FOR save) In some discarded crates he finds a suit of leather armor , three maces, and 12 sp. Then in the water he finds a buckler.
Guillaume gets a brief look throughout the middle hold. It is the ship’s main cargo hold. The hold is mostly empty, save for 14 pigs in crate like cages. In the forward section of the deck, a flight of wooden stairs climbs up to the officers’ quarters (area A4), while a second set of stairs descends into the lower hold (area A10). A man you have heard referred to as Owlbear sits chained to the foremast he growls when Guillaume gets too close. Another flight of stairs in the aft section next to the galley leads up to the captain’s quarters (area A5), but it is common knowledge among the crew that the door is trapped. Stored near the mainmast are two light ballistas, a disassembled light catapult, and 12 barrels containing 20 gallons of oil each.
Beket has had time to look at the main deck before. This time he checks a little more in detail. He notes that the sweatbox (a metal box used to punish incalcitrant sailors) blocks one door to the Captain's quarters, the other door is locked. Both doors to the Officers quarters beneath the forecastle are locked. Mr Scourge scowls at Beket periodically throughout the day and has a few quiet conversations with Lonegan and Maheem. He also has a rather animated conversation with Mr Plugg, more than once pointing out Beket and the other new crew members.
Bessie finds nothing of particular interest on the foredeck but she does overhear Rosie Cusswell growling to herself "If Grok doesn't give me back my fiddle I'm gonna throttle that half-orc. Can't she see it's important to me?"
Nasifi has time in the galley already, today she looks for those items that may be handy in a pinch. However, that prospect is made exceedingly difficult because of the state of the galley. The cramped and chaotic kitchen holds two wooden worktables, several wooden cupboards, and two small stoves against the port wall, as well as virtually every cooking utensil imaginable and a frightening array of meat cleavers. A score of chickens and three goats wander freely throughout the chamber; the goats are meant to be caged, but have a distressing tendency to escape their bonds. The kitchen is a madness of dirt, food, and knives.
It just so happens that she notices one of the chopping knives is a highly decorative and very well made dagger, probably from some rich merchant's kid. Oh, and of most import, she finds a bottle of Chellish Wine, vintage.
the bell tolls for bloody hour. Everyone gathers on the main deck, many of the officers just standing in the doorway to their quarters. Master Scourge appears to be in a good mood this afternoon. He looks to the Captain up on the poop deck, "Sir, we have us some lazy swabs. This is the second day in a row I find both Scrimshaw and the goblin have been shirkin' their duties. As is fitting, that is 3 lashes each, if you will allow it, sir." Master Scourge says. The Captain nods his ascent.
Jape and Fipps grab Scrimshaw first and tie him to the mainmast where several coils of heavy rope wrap around the mast. His hands are slipped through a pair of small nooses so that he is held fast. Jape pulls Scrimshaws shirt up over his head baring his back. Master Scourge grins as he pulls back his arm and then begins.
Then they grab Bleepos, some of his new friends flinch but they know there is nothing they can do in front of the Captain. Bleepos' hands are tied around the mast with a long length of rope since his arms are shorter. His back is bared and Master Scourge, with a look of deranged delight on his face, lays into the goblin.
The Captain then addresses the crew as Bleepos, now unconscious, is untied, "I expect you to work during the day, enjoy your evenings, and sleep well. Slack off, and you'll pay. Simple as that."
Grok comes out with the rum ration for the evening. Last night, all the new crew learned that you do not forego the rum ration, neither could you waste it. On many a ship, they would cut the rum, here, like many pirate ships, it was straight and intended to keep the pirates happy and docile.
Besmara's boots! Vlad hated to see the little guy whipped like that. Unconsciousness is a blessing. Not much he could do about it now, but he'd see if he could help the little feller out later.
He appreciated that the rum wasn't watered down at least. Not enough to get drunk on unfortunately. Hell, barely enough to wet a man's whistle.
It was clear Scourge had it out for the new folk, with the capt'n's permission. Can't fault him. I'd do the same in his position. But he needn't have a bloody sadist in charge of discipline! Tha's no way to treat a crew.
While drinking what little rum they have, Crow takes another turn telling stories. His heart's barely in it after the bloody hour. The rum helps a little.
He hopes at least to provide a bit of a distraction while Bessie sees to the wounds of Bleepos and Beket. He saves a thimble full of rum in the bottom of his tin cup for the goblin.
As they gather for bed, Crow looks to the other new recruits, and pitches his voice low. "I expect we'll be in fer more of the same tomorrow. Scourge's the kind of fella who wants to break a man rather than gain his respect. 'S also the kind of fella who finds himself mysteriously washed overboard durin' a gale." He grins thinking about that.
Beket keeps an equal eye upon Master Scourge, his irritation at the man evident but he does not shirk his duty. If the bearded bastard wants to have a swing at him; he'll have to find a real reason for it or get his lackeys to do it again. After witnessing their courage though, he knew he had their number. Much like the goblin, it had been some time since he bit into a man and really got a taste. Every time that Lonegan and Maheem look at him though, he can't keep that shark-like grin and gives a friendly nod to it. It was most certainly a challenge for anyplace, anytime.
"It seems that Scourge is finding more allies..." The large man says to no one in particular. There were lines drawn in the sand and it was unfortunate that they should find themselves in the eyes of one of the officers. His allies seemed capable though; vicious, cunning, and strong. Their enemies had ruined their chance of surprise and when they next came for them, Beket would not hesitate.
The Bloody Hour came again and this time, two names were called to the forefront. Beket watched as both of them took their lashings, Bleepos falling unconscious underneath the vicious strikes of Master Scourge. There was nothing that they could do for now but the man's "enthusiasm" would be remembered for certain. Beket would approach the little one, looking first at Bessie and then Crow. "Do you have anything for him? This is...unfortunate." It seemed that, like many, the fierce little monster had found a place of endearment within the usually scowling druid.
Like many others, Beket drinks the rum given to him. The sharp taste burns on his tongue as he learned that it was left uncut. "Cunning bastards. Drunk pirates are happy pirates, after all." He watches the officers, drinking what he can. The druid seems able to hold his alcohol just fine, one ration not nearly enough to through him off.
After drinks are given out, he takes a moment to see how the events of the night go. When Crow gives another performance, Beket sneaks back down and gives the crew berth a solid look-through. Maybe a few fools didn't leave their locker quite so closed or maybe something was hidden in their hammocks or around the crew quarters.
Meeting the others as they settle in for the night, Beket gives a small nod and looks back at the others. "He was pointing us out while we were on deck too. He has decided to become our opposition." Looking to Bessie though, Beket could only grin. "Conflict provides opportunity though, right?"
"I will pray the Pirate Goddess for prayers to mend the flesh and soothe our muscles tomorrow. Sleep well, keep your weapons close though."
Guillaume grimaces as Bleepos takes his whipping. Nothing I can do for the little monster, unfortunately. That night, he downs his rum like it’s water.
After that, while others are entertained by Beket’s stories, Guillaume slips off to explore the ship.
Bessie grits her teeth as Bleepos slips to the ground.
The burn of the rum does little to sooth her temper.
If Plugg and Scourge had half a brain between them, the would have told Bleepos that he could eat every rat and cockroach he could catch. The ship would be free of vermin in an hour and we'd all be happy.
She will take Bleepos below and treat him, With that not working she will spontaneously cast two cure light wounds.
Bessie will also spread the word to her friends that they can make an ally of Rosie Cusswell by acquiring her fiddle from Grok. And an entertaining ally could help with a diversion.
After the goblin is up and moving again, if a bit stiffly, Crow helps him out with another healing spell.
"It'll frustrate the hell outta Scourge to have you up and at 'em the next mornin'."
Nasifi doesn't look directly at the floggings. She's seen them before, though not for such flimsy reasons. It's of no benefit to anyone to watch.
As she drinks her rum, she tries talking to someone.
@Beket: you find one of the footlockers has been left unsecured. You believe it to be that of Badger Medlar, an older half elf working as a swab. Inside you find a thunder stone, 4 gold, 30 silver, and a bullseye lantern, plus some additional clothing.
For Bleepos it was all too fast. Scourge pulled the small Goblin, who was a mix of tired and confused.
Wait! Wait, mister Scoffield, don't throw Bleepos overboard! I won't tell anyone you were hiding a tutu in the bilges! - he begged, before understanding the punishment was different.
Then, the slaps started. The first one.
Ouch! That hurt Bleepos! Bleepos is father of family... - he said, trying to show a crude ugly painting of a Goblin family on his army.
The second one.
Ouch ouch! Right in the Goblin poopdeck!
By the time of the third, he was already unconscious. When he woke up again, people were already off the deck, enjoying their evenings. He shook his large head and sat down with difficulties, but then quickly smiled.
Bleepos thanks friends for taking care of Bleepos. - he started, looking around to make sure the no one could hear the group. He continued whispering maliciously - Now, Bleepos takes care of friends too.
He pulled the coins he found earlier and split them evenly... Two silver to each one.
Quartermaster is good person. Tough life, but good strong person. And her heart might be a little naive. It might be a good place to try to use coins.
He approached and signalized to the sleeping area.
Bleepos also found some things while... Cleaning the bilges. Bleepos means... Other things beside Ugly Master Scumge pink tutu. Bleepos found suit of leather armor. Three knock-knock head light maces, and a small, small shield, like the ones mages use. All too big for Bleepos to use, but all perfect for friends to use. Just come to Bleepos before sleeping, and Bleepos will sneak you the items.
He smiled once again, and this time the entire group could see his pointy teeth - way, way too sharp, in a grim, menacing expression.
Don't worry, friends. Bleepos is fine, and Bleepos and friends will still have their day. Life of a bad captain or bad officer is quite short. Shorter than a Goblin's. And Bleepos already outlived three full hands of them.