Skull & Shackles: Glittering Riches and Bloody Blades (Inactive)

Game Master DancingShadow

Round 2
With Plugg in reach, Ragnar releases the chain on his fury and howls into the night, attacking furiously with his greatsword.
Activating Rage- current Str is 20, Con 19, +2 will saves, AC drops to 14, current HP total is 27 (4 temporary)

MWK Greatsword, raging and inspire courage: 1d20 + 8 + 1 ⇒ (17) + 8 + 1 = 262d6 + 7 + 1 ⇒ (3, 6) + 7 + 1 = 17

S%&%, too large a post. I missed a key detail there. Ragnar, you were hit by Plugg's cutlass for 8 points of damage. He missed you with the cat-o-nine-tails. Sorry about that.

I stated I practiced holding the pistol in my hook hand before coming up here so I could reload it.

I laugh as my second shot lands it's target. "Happy to see you too Pluggy boy. It's been a long time coming and I'm glad I got to be here when it happened."

If Plugg isn't subdued by someone else before my turn, I reload, take aim, and fire at him again.

Attack:1d20 + 7 - 4 ⇒ (12) + 7 - 4 = 15 vs touch AC For:1d8 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6

If Plugg is down before my turn then I shift to Scourge and take my shot at him instead. Otherwise I pick on the closest remaining enemy, I don't care who.

I remember giving the option and I thought you had taken it. So, it plays out all good. :)

(Assuming Jove can 5' step away from any enemies so he can cast without provoking AoOs) Jove holds his hand out and fires a beam of dark energy at Plugg. Then he cackles wildly to prolong his hex on Plugg.

Casting Ray of Enfeeblement
Attack Roll vs. Touch AC: 1d20 + 4 - 4 ⇒ (16) + 4 - 4 = 16 (includes penalty for firing into melee)
Strength Damage for 2 rounds: 1d6 + 1 ⇒ (5) + 1 = 6 (DC 16 Fort save for half damage)

(If Jove cannot step out of AoO range with a 5' step, he will hex Plugg with Evil Eye again, this time targeting attack rolls for -2, and then cackle, extending the duration of both effects)

Noche'Wa howls as he sees his first sailor go down. The thrill of battle washes over him and he spies the moon over the horizon as Ayaki's words fuel him. Raising his shield, he moves to the next sailor and stabs again, eyes filled with fervor.

Attack with IC: 1d20 + 6 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 6 + 1 = 131d6 + 4 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 4 + 1 = 6

S*~&, too large a post. I missed a key detail there. Ragnar, you were hit by Plugg's cutlass for 8 points of damage. He missed you with the cat-o-nine-tails. Sorry about that.

No problem. I've updated the headline to reflect my current condition.

The pain of the blade's impact dulled by adrenaline and fury, Ragnar nonetheless howls in mangled Skald (or some kind of gibberish) at the scent of his own blood.
"GUHNUHNFYUHRDUHGUHHH!!!!"

I move to find a clear way to Plugg, but stay 15 feet away from him.
Then i swing my whip to disarm him, all the while continuing my performance.

Disarm: 1d20 + 6 + 1 ⇒ (6) + 6 + 1 = 13

Day 24 - 25 Sarenith 4712

Round 2

Rosie slashes at Scourge, but she trips on one of the downed pirates and her swing goes wild, missing badly. Scourge drops his punch dagger as this happens and pulls a finely-made handaxe from his belt, slashing at Rosie in fluid motion. The halfling takes a nasty gash on her right forearm.

Your allies, Badger, Barefoot, and Ratline, take advantage of Plugg's separate advance and isolate Scourge, surrounding him. The gash him a couple of times, but Kroop comes up on the pirate dog, surprising the man and knocking him out cold with a sudden blow from a frying pan.

The fury of the fight now focuses on Plugg, who fights on doggedly. Noche'Wa, Ragnar, and Sandara all come at the pirate, but he manages to defeat two of their attacks. Ragnar's blow is telling, tearing a massive gash across the man's chest and abdomen. Fear suddenly fills Plugg's eyes as the fire of anger is extinguished and the fear of death blooms. Ayaki tries to unsuccessfully take one of his weapons from him, but the man's grip is too strong. Jove's spell strikes the fiendish pirate, but Plugg manages to let his fear drive his body and fight off some of the magic afflicting him.

Plugg backs away from the melee and heads for a window on the opposite side of the cabin. He pulls back his sword, readying to smash through with the hilt.

@Four Skulls: I'm going to redirect your attack since Scourge has fallen.

Four Skulls rushes in behind Plugg and stabs the man in the back, eliciting a grunt from the pirate. Gan's pistol thunders again and Plugg falls, the bullet taking the fight from him. Conchobhar runs in just behind Four Skulls and stabs Plugg as he falls with his sword cane. "Pure rubbish," the gnome mutters.

Enemy Damage Taken - Syl: 16 (Unconscious), Jape: 11 (Staggered), Aretta: 14 (Unconscious), Maheem: 15 (Unconscious), Scourge: 37 (Unconscious), Plugg: 55 (Evil Eye: Saves, -3 Strength, Unconscious)
Friendly Damage Taken - Ratline: 7, Rosie: 9

Quick mutiny, eh? The fight's over, as all of the enemy pirates are down. All of them except for Jape are dying and will likely avoid any greater punishment by your hands if you don't attempt to stabilize them. Congrats on taking the ship! The Man's Promise and freedom are yours!

Well fought, my friends! Jove pants, steadying himself. Well, Captain Gan, I'd let you make an epic speech right now, but all our enemies lay dying at our feet, and if we are going to spare some, we should do it now. I have a stabilization spell prepared, and those bilge pumps don't run themselves!

Jove stands ready to cast Stabilize on any the group figures worth sparing.

I walk coldly over to where Plugg lay on the ground reload my pistol. I aim it at Plugg's head and with a flash of light and a thunderous sound, I finish the job.

I then head over to address the crew. "Well done everyone! The deed is done and the day is won! We have survived and won our freedom! The only question remaining is what next?" I let things settle for a moment. "What next? I'll tell you what's next. We have our freedom but we don't have a way yet. Well we have a ship beneath our feet and it is ours! Here is our heading. We are going to re-purpose the ship for ourselves. Or rather, anyone who wants to stay. I will also be dropping off those of you who want your freedom somewhere else at the next port we visit. The ship shall keep the name Man's Promise, because it is this man's promise, to sail the seas and grow stronger than ever. A man's promise to fame and fortune. And those of you who wish share in that fame and fortune are welcome to come along. I surely cannot do this alone. Stick with me and we will realize a future filled with greatness. And should Harrigan ever come looking for us as per his promise, then we will hold strong and be ready. I want a strong crew, not just a strong captain. A captain is only as good as the crew that follows him. I am willing to be a good captain if you are willing to be a good crew." Pause for a moment. "Well? Which of you wants to join me in this promise? This adventure? And is willing to sail under my command?" I wait for responses.

Nice speech. Chuck me a Diplomacy check, will ya'?

Ragnar sweeps his sword around, looking for his next opponent... but sees that the battle is over. With a rumble in his throat, he fights his rage back into a hot little ball. Taking a deep breath, he seems to deflate and his shoulders sag. The Ulfen seems to barely pay attention to Gan's speech, arms shaking and right eye twitching as the rush leaves him and his expression turns to disappointment.

Noche'Wa yells his victory to the winds: "Eeeeeeeeeeeaaaaaaaaaargh!" lifting his spear over his head.

Slowly, a small creeps back over his bent blood-stained face.

I am free.

He gathers with the others around Gan and listens to the man's speech. "I will also be dropping off those of you who want your freedom somewhere else at the next port we visit." The choice offered turns his stomach. What is next for me? He turns to the sea. The moon's reflection dancing on the waves, than, closer, on the blood covering the floor.

The call of the dying distracts him and he turns to give a hand helping the injured.

harrumph With a flicker of the arms Ayakis clothes change to that of a seemeingly wealthy pirate captain and she casually applies some perfume on her wrists.
Mates, you all fought bravely and we deserved that victory! You took our freedom out of the hands of that scurrvy scum. I say we let them taste what they planned for us! With some gold in our pockets freedom will be much sweeter!

But what shall we do after that? where will fate lead us and this ship? Laccaran offers to be captain, but by pirate tradition there must be a choice, so i throw my hat in there as well. Don´t get me wrong, Laccaran is a good and brave man and there is more than enough place on this ship for man like him! But Besmara herself is a women and female capatains gain her favors more easily. See, i even have a new flag for you! Let this flag become a well known and feeeared sight on the waters of Golarion! Choose one of us as captain or both of us and join us or do you want to become landlubbers kneeling to some lordling? Let us claim our place among the free captains of the Shackles!

With these words Ayaki produces a big flag with blood red bone paws under a fox skull on black ground and waves it through the air.

Diplomacy: 1d20 + 10 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 10 + 1 = 15

If I need a diplomacy then here it is:1d20 + 4 ⇒ (12) + 4 = 16 Hopefully my long standing with the crew helps

The way I see, there can't be two captains. In a crisis, there can't be two equals arguing while the ship's sinking--someone's gotta step up, make the call and take the consequences. That's Gan. When he saw an opportunity to kill Harrigan, he stepped up, shot the bastard in plain sight, and was willing to take his punishment whatever it might be--even death. I think that hook is Gan's promise that he'll lead us right through crises and take responsibility for his decisions. Jove calls out to the crew.

Aid Another (Gan's Diplomacy): 1d20 + 3 ⇒ (8) + 3 = 11 Well, every little bit helps right? LOL

I give Jove a bemused smile. I tried to kill this man at our first meeting and yet he supports me so strongly. Will wonders never cease. I will indeed need to give him a proper apology once things have settled.

I then hold out my hook. "This is not only a sign of my decision making, but also a harsh reminder of the costs of my actions. I realize I lost my hand instead of my life. A hard lesson but a lesson well received. It is because of that lesson I do not feel the burning desire to hunt down Harrigan, but to become both a stronger and wiser man. A stronger and wiser leader as well. The experience I have gained will serve me well and it will serve each and everyone of you as well. I believe in efficiency and morale. I will run a tight but more enjoyable ship than Harrigan or Plugg ever will."

This is fun stuff to write.

Noche'Wa steps in the middle of the crowd: "I don't know a thing about pirate laws. I didn't know they had any!?! Two offers we have. More?" He looks around. "If we are free men, we decide how to choose our captain. Should we vote? Have a contest? A fight? To the death? Ah! Ah! Ah! What will it be?"

The pirates assembled, with the exception of Sandara, look back and forth as speeches are made. "Gan!" one of them shouts, and soon the rest are joining in, until Noche'Wa steps forward to speak. They stop and look at each other, unsure of what to say.

Ragnar stands up and takes two cutlasses from the fallen rank and file pirates before striding between Gan and Ayaki, the blades leaned against his shoulders.
"L'zznn uhf! Uhn ruhd muh luhfz uhf yuh guhttuh.", he croaks,"Yuh buhth tuhk fuhnzuh. Fuh'nuhv...."

Translation:

He gestures with a blade to the gash in his side Plugg dealt him. Gestures to Ratline and Rosie, both likewise bloodied in the skirmish.

"... buh tuhk duhdn' guht uhz huh. Struhf. Muhhuhm. BUHTTUHL. Duhz wuh guht uhz huh."

Translation:

He gestures with the blades to each of the candidates.
"Yuh luhd fuhm duh ruh. Nuht uh scruhtch uhn uhthuh yuh.", he says, pointing to Gan's hook hand,"Uhn duhn' tuhl muh duht wuhz fuh yuh cruh! Nuh muhtuhz huh." He spits on the deck, leaving no room to doubt what he thinks of that.

Translation:

"Uh duh' fuhlluh nuh-wuhn'z uhfuhd tuh bluhd. Duhll fuh uht. Nuh spuhllz. Nuh guhz. Juhz duhz. Yuh cuhn duh th' duhtuh wuhk, nuh muhttuh huh stuhndz uhn yuh wuh.... Uh'll fuhlluh yuh.", he finishes, holding out a cutlass to Gan and Ayaki each.

Translation:

Now, now, i would have said that the captain is chosen by the crew through voting and pledges. That would be the common way. But if you insist on drawing blood ...

SO the crew can decide if they want a fight or voting.
After that we should have a captain and protocoll asks for a ship codex.

I seem amused at Ragnar's proposal. Why does it always come to muscle and battle. This really gets old and bothersome. Extremely impractical."

I take the cutlass from Ragnar and look to the crew. "Is this the kind of captain we want? Another Plugg? Another Harrgian? A leader who can only lead by his ability to kill and beat an opponent? The mark of a good leader should be his ability to lead soundly. It is the job of the followers to make up for the leader's shortcoming and every leader has them. If I must prove my strength, then most of you know I already have. I had to venture to the bilges and slay giant rats with no armor and only a dagger. I fought the largest man on the ship with my bare hands and beat him even after he tried to use a weapon to beat me. When Plugg sent Felix to the bilges unarmed to be killed by his lackeys, it was I who led a rescue to save him. Our small team fought and killed the two men and risked our own lives to do so. On this very ship when we were fighting the enemy crew, I took a bold move and attack the strongest man on both ships and afterwards, stood face to face with him and lost my hand. I am NOT afraid to bleed for this crew if I have to, but we are not a bunch of barbarians and a skirmish of this nature would prove nothing. The strongest arm could still be nothing more than a witless brute no more fit to run this crew than a dog off the streets." I throw the sword to the ground. "I do not need to prove my strength. All former members of the wormwood know this and any new members to the crew should consider the ties the members of this crew have with one another. There is already a bond between me and most of you. However, if it is a barbarian you want for a leader, I suggest you vote this man." I gesture to Ragnar. "He could cleave anyone on this ship in two, myself included. If we are going to decide this by strength then were better off with his lead."

I take a deep breath. "If you want a real leader, one you know and trust, who has the skills to sail a ship, one who HAS proven his strength and resolve, then, my friends, trust in me, believe me when I say that I will be the best captain you have ever known. That is my promise to you. And should I ever fail you, I offer my fate to the crew." I stand waiting a response.

Gan won't fight. Nothing can be said or done to convince him otherwise. He hates meaningless fighting and to him, there is nothing to be gain from a conflict with Hu and that is simply the way he sees it. So, Hu will be captain if the crew settles on a fight as Gan would forfeit. That is simply how strongly he feels about it.

Actually i thought we handled that with the diplomacy checks. I made that mostly for fun and as hommage to a certain moive tetralogy i love. It plays out as fun, but i don´t want to step on others toes or cross someones plans.

I have to agree with Laccaran on this. Surely no one here is afraid to bleed and pay his duty. Neither are we scum like the ones we just got rid of. That is why i applied for captain too, to have a choice and alternatives, like men of freedom should have. If there is nothing to choose from, there is no freedom. So now go choose who should be our captain, who you deem the most skilled and fit to lead us.

Hear, hear! Jove cries in assent to Gan and Ayaki. Come off it, Ragnar. If this man losing his bleeding hand to a powerful foe doesn't count because it was 'martyrdom,' then how in the Pirate Queen's name is a fight between two allies any better? Jove raises his eyebrows.

For my part, I think that everyone on deck right now have proven they are not afraid of taking wounds. Every one of us mutineers would have faced grievous wounds, and probably death, had we failed. Wounds are a red badge of courage for those who receive them in battle, but only a mark of folly for those who seek them out.

Jove turns to Sandara. Miss Quinn, you know the Code better than anyone on this ship. What is the accepted method of voting on a pirate ship? Raising of hands? Calling 'aye' or 'nay'? Secret ballot? Or are we sailing into uncharted waters voting on a captain instead of fighting for it?

Ragnar spits on the deck again.
"Fuhnzuh Shudz. Uhlluh yuh. Wuhn' fuht fuh yuh pluhz, huh yuh guhn' guht pluhnuh'? Tuhk uht uht uhv uhm? Uhz NUHZLUH?! Whuhn yuh ruhduh t' buh uh puhruht, luhmuh nuh."

Translation:

He throws up his hands and stalks off back to the rail.

Ragnar, I'm sorry. I forgot that Gan and Ayaki have the chance to become captain because they sat down and had a lovely cup of tea with Plugg and after an hour or so of "Pass the crumpets, please' and 'I insist.' and 'No, my good man, I insist.' Plugg agreed that one of them should become captain, excused himself, and laid down on the deck there for a nap. Yes, we should all be ashamed at the thoroughly un-pirate-like way the change of power happened. Jove turns to look at the dying being ministered to by Noche'wa and the dead Plugg with his head blown out.

I should probably help you out, Noche'wa, shouldn't I? Sounds like Gan is willing to let Plugg and Scourge's goons off at the next port, if they don't want to stay. Best have a full crew to get there then.

Jove will help Noche'wa out, casting Stabilize on the dying.

Ragnar, I'm sorry. I forgot that Gan and Ayaki have the chance to become captain because they sat down and had a lovely cup of tea with Plugg and after an hour or so of "Pass the crumpets, please' and 'I insist.' and 'No, my good man, I insist.' Plugg agreed that one of them should become captain, excused himself, and laid down on the deck there for a nap. Yes, we should all be ashamed at the thoroughly un-pirate-like way the change of power happened. Jove turns to look at the dying being ministered to by Noche'wa and the dead Plugg with his head blown out.

I should probably help you out, Noche'wa, shouldn't I? Sounds like Gan is willing to let Plugg and Scourge's goons off at the next port, if they don't want to stay. Best have a full crew to get there then.

Jove will help Noche'wa out, casting Stabilize on the dying.

Ragnar snorts.

Translation:

Well, I'm sorry you feel that blowing another man's head out with a pistol is too civilized, but like Gan said, you step up and put your name up for captain if you think that the captain must wield either his fists or his blade; captains skilled with bows, guns, or whips need not apply, even if they have faced dangers in melée before. It kinda sounds like you're saying you're the only one qualified, so let's hear it. What would Captain Ragnar bring to the table? Jove calls conversationally between castings.

I hold my hand up to Jove. "Settle down Jove. Your point is made. This man clearly has deep rooted views." I look at Ragnar sternly. "Why are you at sea? You are a warrior of the sword but is that all you can do? If I become captain and you wish to serve, I will need you to be a sailor, not a warrior. The sea is a stronger foe than any man we will face. Pirates are the ultimate outlaws. The ultimate warriors of the sea. They are also sailors. Also, in battle, they don't fight fair. There is no honor or glory like a battlefield. We will all have to fight at times but the battles are fought without rules, without honor. Weather by gun, sword, spell or dirty trick, the man still alive is the winner no matter what he did to get it. I don't need a sword to prove my strength. If you want a warrior leader and to be a warrior, then we can drop you off at the next port. I need strong sailors, not honorable warriors. What say you? Do you have what it takes to be a pirate beyond swinging a sword really hard? Can I use you as a sailor?"

"Yuh knuh duhmn wuhll uh uhn' luhduhn, Suhlv. Nuh whuhn muhzt uh yuh cuhn' unnuhstuhn uh duhmn wuhd uh suh. Uhll thuhnz buhn uhgwuhl t'muh, uh thuhngk uh fuhtz duh wuh t'pruhv huh huhz duh gruhvuh uhn duh gutz tuh muhk duhz wuhk. Nuhwuhz guhn' huhv fuh cuhntruh uh unvuh suhtjwuhjuhn uhll uh tuhm uhthuh- uh muhluh duhllz uh wuhgnuhzz fuh buh uhn huhvuh cuhfz buhduh, uht shuhz whuht duh muhd uhv uhn duh uhn. Guhduh pruhv huz ruht wuhthuht gwuhzshuhn suh'z duh uhn' uhnuhthuh muhtnuh duhn duh luhn uhv duh vuht guhz duh rung wuh."

Translation:

"Buhd uhtz muht. Uhnluhz duh cruh uhnzuhztz, duh wuhn'. Suh huh wuh uh. Cuhll yuh luhduh vuht uhn tuhmuhll tuh. Uhv duh cuhm uhf shuht, duhn suh uh duhn' wuhn yuh."

Translation:

I hold my hand up to Jove. "Settle down Jove. Your point is made. This man clearly has deep rooted views." I look at Ragnar sternly. "Why are you at sea? You are a warrior of the sword but is that all you can do? If I become captain and you wish to serve, I will need you to be a sailor, not a warrior. The sea is a stronger foe than any man we will face. Pirates are the ultimate outlaws. The ultimate warriors of the sea. They are also sailors. Also, in battle, they don't fight fair. There is no honor or glory like a battlefield. We will all have to fight at times but the battles are fought without rules, without honor. Weather by gun, sword, spell or dirty trick, the man still alive is the winner no matter what he did to get it. I don't need a sword to prove my strength. If you want a warrior leader and to be a warrior, then we can drop you off at the next port. I need strong sailors, not honorable warriors. What say you? Do you have what it takes to be a pirate beyond swinging a sword really hard? Can I use you as a sailor?"

Honestly tired of typing grunt-speak, so I'll skip to the translation.

Ragnar mumbles through a reply.

Translation:

I smile at Ragnar. "Thats good. You have a better understanding than I first thought. I do not rely on my pistol. It is my preferred weapon but I have fought many battles without it. If you say you can be my sword then you have set the example of supplementing my short comings. I am not a great warrior but I will fight when and where necessary. We will pillage and plunder. There will be blood and I will be involved. But a fight here would prove nothing. The crew will decide who they want to follow. So, if no fight takes place and a captain is chosen by "civilized" means, will you serve your captain and crew loyally or would you wish to depart at the next available port and seek a captain you are looking for?" I look Ragnar in the eye as I ask my question.

I hope you don't take this stuff personally Ragnar. I'm trying really hard to sound "Captainy"

Noche'Wa looks at Jove for a bit, obviously thinking long and hard. Then a smile flashes across his face and he gets back and goes back to the centre: "I hear talk about whether it should be a fight or a vote. And for a while, I agreed with Ragnar, then for a while I agreed with Gan, but then it hit me as Ragnar spoke last."

He pauses, making eye contact with sailors, then points at Ragnar: "He is the only one that actually mentioned what he would bring to the crew. All I heard from Gan or Ayaki, is that they deserve to be Captain. I say their claims doesn't hold. To me, it's not about who bled most for the crew, but who has the skills to lead us through fire and death. I have only heard Ragnar's skill, what of you Gan? And what of you Ayaki? Perhaps then will the crew be able to choose..."

I hope others are enjoying this little bout between the characters, 'cause I certainly am.

I smile and straighten up. "Okay, I can roll with this." I turn to address Noche. "First of all, I never said I "deserve" to be captain. I am asking to be captain in a very pompous and grandiose manner thank you very much."

I then turn to address those gathered. "Secondly, I have announced my skills but if I need to elaborate then I will. I was formally a prisoner, before that I was a rigger on the Wormwood, before that I was a slave and before that, I was a first mate's assistant for seven years of my youth."

I straighten up. "I am not going to stand here and roll out a list of qualifications. I will tell you my capabilities and what I'd need if and when I am captain. First of all, I am a marksman and a gunsmith. I fight with pistols. Now for more conventional skills. I am a sailor, have been for years, I am very good when it comes to working on ships and spending time at sea. I climb fast and swim fast. I too can hold my breath for quite some time. However, every sailor should be able to do what I can as far as skills go. When it boils down to it, nothing all that impressive."

I take a deep breath. Clearly I am going to say some things that may deter some from selecting me if skills are what they are looking for. "The "skills" needed to bring us through fire an death are of a more personal nature. I have learned a good deal about RUNNING a ship from a first mate for seven years. I have never done it. I know the ins and outs of how a ship works, the jobs necessary to keep a ship in order. I have faced bloody combat in many environments that didn't favor me and survived. I understand what a crew needs, I understand the politics of the sea. My trade skills that Noche is seeking won't make me a better captain. I am no better than any of you in that regard. My skills are meaningless to being a captain. All I have that I believe differs from any other candidate are principles, resolve, commitment, critical thinking, organization, planning, and most importantly, leading. These are the skills I put forward for you to judge. The other skills a captain needs are to be supplied by the crew. That is why I need a crew. To acquire any skills I lack. There is truly nothing about me that says I am a spectacular commander other than my ambition for greatness, wealth, and power. If you do not believe my "skills" are up to par, then make your choice." I cross my arms and wait for my rival to speak or the crew to come to a decision. I an standing with confidence that I have said everything I need too.

Ragnar.....don't ever dis a war of words again! This is hard work thinking of all this stuff and I have time to prepare! If I had to think of this stuff on the fly it would sound no where near as well thought out. Good gods this is exhausting to do. Serves me right for thinking I could just step up and say "Okay everyone I'm captain now. Let's go." You guys had to go make me fight for it. Phew. Don't get me wrong, this is a lot of fun just really exhausting. I hope the crew decides soon or my brain is going to melt.

I'll toss a reply up for the crew early in the afternoon tomorrow. I want to give others a chance to respond.

Four Skulls approuches the fallen shape of Master Scourge . He pierces the man's neck with his spear ending his life. I always try to keep my promisses Scourge. Thanks for the jacket by the way

He takes the dead man's black duster and proceeds to stabilize the other unconscious members of the crew while the others talk. After he is done he joins the others.

I have sailed with most of this people for half a year. Dont take this the wrong way newcomers looking at the 3 freed prisioners. but I have no ideia who you people are. You all fight well enough but so did Plugg and that didn t cut for him either. There is more to a ship than the clash of swords, even a pirate one, and you still need to prove yourselfs.

He looks at his old crewmates.Do you guys want to put this to vote? Fine. Lets vote now and be done with it. We need to plan a head. making a pause.

I am with Laccaran.

Aid Another Gan's Diplomacy: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (8) + 7 = 15

Yarr, you men are chatting like at some noble ladies teatime!
You should ask yourself, what does a captain do? Surely, a captain fights with his crew, but that´s not all. A captain also needs to know where to navigate, how to sail, when to fight and if it´s worth it, or when better to use prudence. She also needs to have a lot of knowledge, how else should one know how to perceive all the glitters and riches that make you Jack Tars happy? Isn´t that why you are in the sweet trade? `f course compared to the free captains we are all fancy jackets so far, but i do know how to change that. I heared a thousand stories and talked to at least as much sailors and pirates and captains and was on a pirate ship within my first year on this world. The sea is in my blood, wouldn´t wonder if my offspring had gills! But more important, at the same time gold and treasure, fame and power are my greatest passion. And that´s just where i will lead you!

I find something else amusing. You all pushed two of the rahadoumi sailors into the water. They're still out there... maybe?

Sandara looks around at the crew remaining standing. Those in presence are yourselves, as well as Ambrose "Fishguts" Kroop, Conchobhar Shortstone, Badger Medlar, "Ratline" Rattsberger, Barefoot Samms Toppin, and finally, Sandara Quinn herself.

"This ain't much of a crew, especially for a ship such as this. So we're goin' to be needin' a captain that can inspire others. Get them to join us."

She pulls a clay pipe from a pouch at her side and stuffs a bit of tobacco from the same pouch into it. "I'm wantin' someone as well that's aimin' to keep the Pirate Queen happy. Right now, I'm sure she's not so pleased with our actions." She grimaces and lights the pipe with a tindertwig.

"Best way for that is to be plunderin' and gettin' some wealth aboard this boat. I'm not sure how any of you would be doin' it, though." She takes a quick draw from the pipe, rolling the smoke around in her mouth for a moment before blowing it out in a puff. "What's say th' three of you present a plan, somethin' definable, to be gettin' us riches and we all decide which is the best. That person becomes the captain until their plan proves to be wrong." She grins and sticks the pipe in her teeth. "Sound good to you, Ayaki, Gan, and Ragnar?"

Well met Sandara, sounds good to me.
As Besmara smiles on us, i happen to have this map. It is a nautical map of the shackles and surroundings, along with trade routes and everything. A Captain should always be prepared. Therefore i also know a lot of legends and things that will lead us to treasures. Since we are now somewhere near the Slithering coast it seems i propose we go where Plugg wanted to go, repair the ship and get some fresh supplies, then sail north where all the fat traders are and pinch one!
I would have a new Shipboard conduct and a binding pirates code as well. As for the inspiring, i suppose you all heard my words before and while the battle or do we have any deaf one´s around here?

Oh gods please let this end soon. Hu's gonna win cause of me burning out.

I nod. "A fair question and a surprising response from my rival here. I am sorry to say my base knowledge is lacking a good deal. I know what I know through experience but little in regards to books, honestly I wasn't sure pirates cared so much about literacy and expansive knowledges. It was one of those skills I had hoped the crew would help with."

I clear my throat. "However, the question is in regards to riches and wealth. I do know how to spot an opportunity and act quickly and decisively. I also have recently learned how to better gauge a foe and plan accordingly. Hitting trade ships is a simple enough answer my my plans would involve scouts when we are in ports. I will have my own code to implement and a part of that code is rewarding those among us who acquire profitable information. I want a large selection of resources and will accept plans and valuable targets and or places to go after. If any of these prove fruitful, the initial presenter would be rewarded handsomely. Hitting trade lines is a nice way to get some standard vessels. However, when we are in a port, I am going to inquire, as should everyone else, about local legends, big ticket trade ships, and any other useful or profitable finds."

I gesture to the crew. "I need a strong crew to help me as much as I plan to help you. I have a lot of weaknesses still and as far as I can tell, no one here," I gesture to Hu as well, "No one here is without shortcomings and are going to have to draw upon the skills and talents of the crew to make up for. For example, knowledge. I myself am limited but I know there are those among you who could provide me will useful intel. What I do with that information is what truly decides my value as a leader. Making a plan with the resources I am given is my strength and I have learned well from past mistakes and there have been many. I am a survivor, I am an opportunist, I am becoming a tactician, and I WILL be a leader."

I gesture to the ship. "We need an organized crew as well as a strong crew but I do not plan on handing out roles to just anyone. Only to those who can best fulfill the role. If I am settled as captain the first order of business would be to lay out the rules. We are free men but that doesn't mean we get to do as we please without boundaries. If the boundaries I set disagree with your notion of "freedom", then you are "free" to depart at the next port with some reasonable compensation. I won't make unfair rules. Know that any rules I put into play are for both the benefit of the ship and of it's crew and I won't make rules that are a burden on you. Crew morale is just as important as the shape of the ship. A happy crew is a strong crew, is a loyal crew, is a motivated crew, is a fearless and terrifying crew. My goal is that none of you think of the work aboard this ship as slave work or that at any point you'd feel like a slave. We are a ship of free men. Rules are only there so we can be efficient and happy free men."

I then gesture to the captain's cabin. "My job is captain. I decide where the ship will go and what the crew will be doing. Those decisions are what will make or break me as a good captain. Those are the decisions that matter most. The destination of the ship and the activities and well being of the crew. Additional roles will be battle leading and problem solving. Those I can do well also."

I gesture once again to the crew. "After a few major rules, our next order of business will be your roles on the ship. For some of you I can already see what you would be best at. However, I plan to give each of you a fair chance at the role you wish to have on this ship. The most important part of working is doing what you want to do, but also doing what you were meant to do. Doing what you are best at. I will consider skills over friendship. Though I am familiar with most of you, and friends with most of you, I will not take that into consideration when deciding your roles. I have the final say in what you do but I will make sure it is something you are at least willing to do. I will not force any of you into a role you don't want or wont be happy with. Some of the lesser roles can be traded to keep them from getting too mundane or menial. No job will be looked down upon. Though many of you may see swab work as slave work, it is essential to the well being of the vessel and I expect it to be filled. I will have the first mate post a daily job board where sailors will be able to select their role for the day. This is likely to be among swabs and riggers only. Officer jobs wont change much. Those of you here now will have first pick of the roles. We will then head to the port Plugg was going and acquire more willing crew from there as well as everything we need to supply this vessel properly. I will have you go around town and gather any and all useful information to be presented to me. In the meantime I plan to study Plugg's records if he has any. If he has nothing worth looking at, I too will be joining you in gathering information."

I hold out my arms. "This is everything I have to offer. I can only say I am a man with experience and ambition. I know what I want and I need you to help me get it. Ultimately, we can all share in the wealth of the fruits we bare. We will be rich and famous. We may even come to be quite the legend for later generations. Fair treatment and a tight ship, decisive actions and informed decisions. I can also take responsibility for my shortcomings and own up to my mistakes and errors and learn from them. I can only get better than I am now. Please, lend me your trust, lend me your strengths, lend me your support, and together we will rule the seas!"

Pant, pant, pant. OW MY FINGERS ARE CRAMPING!!! Okay I laid everything out for all to see. I dare them to have another question or another concern. If they do I'm going to write a ten page essay and post that! You have been warned!

"Well, unless Ragnar has a plan to offer, I think that's that." Sandara Quinn smiles and takes another short draw from the pipe, holding the smoke momentarily and then exhaling it. "Frankly, my vote's for Gan. I just know him better and he's got a better laid out plan."

She turns to look at the rest of the pirates on deck. "What say the rest of you?"

Badger, Barefoot, and Ratline as look at each other. Badger and Barefoot both shout "Gan!" while Ratline shouts "Ayaki!"

Sandara looks to Kroop.

Ambrose thinks for a moment, "So long as I get to keep on cookin', Gan." He glances at Gan, "Elsewise, Ayaki." He shrugs, "Been cookin' fer all me life. I've got years on th' seas, but me place is in th' galley."

"Then by my tally of the vote of the crew, it seems like Gan Laccaran is to be the new captain of the Man's Promise!" She gestures out across everyone assembled. "Does anyone object?"

Noche'Wa nods to Sandara and smiles to Gan.

"Ahahah!"

Ragnar nods, arms crossed.
"Hnn. Cuhnguhjuhlluhzuhns."
He looks over the rail before jerking a thumb over his shoulder.
"Shuhd wuh guht duhz guhz uh luht uhm duhn?"
Translation:

Eyeing the crew with wild blinking eyes, Ayaki takes a deep breath, bowing theatrically to Gan.

Fine then, if that is the crew´s wish, be it so. Once again the loudest voice speaking without pause wins over that of wisdom and skill. So let´s see if he is a worthy captain.

Oh captain of many words, what are your plans and commands? We still should manage the rest of the ship´s jobs and clear a lot of other things.