Throwing caution to the wind, Aramis writes off the sinking ship and hurries over to Amos. "Now why'd ye 'ave ta go an' get yerself stuck like that?!" she demands angrily, reaching as if to yank the harpoon out but apparently thinking better of it. "Come on. Let's get ye off tha' friend a' yers an' get ye fixed up, eh?" she adds, her voice and eyes softening slightly. "Ye did good on tha' bastard."
While Aramis sees to Amos' freedom, Maera calls for the crew to Fury to free themselves of the ghost ship's moorings. "Don't let their grappin' hooks pull us under as well," she slashes at one with her rapier. "And someone fetch Captain Quinn or the Sawbones... Our Master Gunner is goin' to have a devil of a scar..."
Indrana moved to the nearest rope and began to claw at it in an effort to sever the rope.
Amos finds he can't speak without gritting his teeth. Back to the Fury! he manages as the other officers assist him off bullet and across to the Fury. The harpoon is stuck in his left side, but doesn't look like it pierced anything important. Probably.
"To the Fury!" The Devilfish yells, attempting to sever one of the ropes along the way.
Ha! Very funny Mr. Rain! Amos grumbles.
He fits a parting shot at the boarding ropes.
The ghost ship sinks very quickly, almost as if it is diving beneath the waves, but the crew was quick to react to detach Fury and not have any worries. Sandara and Doc both spend a bit of time treating wounds, but thankfully no crew was lost thanks to the officers handling the main problem so quickly.
As things go, the ship is able to recover with series problems and the crew is very excited about defeating the legendary ship, but it did seem a bit easy.
After a day or so of travel and recovery, a call for land is given and Sandara smiles when she looks to see what it is.
"It's Tidewater Rock. How fortuitous for us...if we wanted to 'Crack the Rock'," she says with a wink. "Do we attempt this? And if so...how should we go about it..."
Aramis spends the travel time alternately mixing ip new powders and pellets; teaching Rotgut colourful new curses; and seeking out Amos. There's always something wrong, it seems - the powder doesn't seem quite right; perhaps he could have a look at it? She isn't sure how to get her stock shining brightly enough; did he have any suggestions? Rotgut seemed to enjoy perching on Bullet's head; was it hurting the horse, did he think?
When Sandara identifies the landmass before Fury as Tidewater Rock, Aramis gives her a brief stare. "I'm assumin' by tha way yer sayin' tha', we can't exactly jus' walk right up an' start crackin' eh?"
Amos also spends his free time crafting powder and helping Aramis. It was great to have someone who knew what they were taking about around, and she was really easy on the eyes to boot.
At the Rock, he says, This ship doesn't have the firepower to take on a fort, even a small one like that. Maybe if we had one of those Chelaxian hunters like the one we disabled, but not the Fury. I'd be best if we can talk our way into this one.
After successfully dealing with the ghost vessel Indrana breathed a sigh of relief. It had been far easier than she thought so easy it made her nervous. Still, she did her best to push past it and was glad for the sun the next morning. After a good rest Indrana sat down to work on the item once again with Sandara's help.
With the work finished for the day Indrana found herself delighted with her success, just a couple more days with this kind of progress and she'd have the headband finished.
When they reached the Rock the next day it was obvious how the place got it's name. If ever somewhere was unassailable this was it. Oh she could come up with ideas, but her lack of knowledge on such topics lead her to simply label the place as what she believed it to be. "I agree, taking this place by storm won't be pretty, diplomacy is the way to go." Once again her cat was held in her arms, her hand idly stroking Maura's fur around her ears. "I imagine our best bet is to take a landing craft out with just a few of us and say hello, surely they'll hear us out if we don't act aggressively."
"I agree...We can't be stormin' this one without at least knowing what's inside." The dwarf cleans his weapons as they all talk.
"Wha' d'ye think lass?" Aramis asks, looking across at Maera. "You an' me, a' course. Maybe take Amos an' Cass, good civilized folk? No offense, Whiskers," she adds, winking at Diabolito.
"Tidewater Rock, eh? So it ain't a myth either..." Maera replies, looking intrigued when the name of land is given. They're running off a high, having beaten Pilk, and acquiring the rock would only further cement their status as a ship to be feared on the seas. The appeal for diplomacy over force fits fine with Maera's sensibilities. After all, everyone always speaks of attempting to 'crack the rock,' but never being successful. Perhaps it never occurred to anyone else to first try asking please.
"I'd say it's worth a gamble," she nods to Aramis. "Running up a flag o' truce, and askin' for a parley at least gets us in the door to see what's what. And if talks don't work, at least we know what their capabilities are should we seek to continue."
The dwarf chuckles and nods.
"Can't hurt to give it a try. I just think it be best not to leave any of us on board, 'case things turn sour-like."
A tower rises like a solid block from the sea at the edge of this island. The pounding surf rolls around its base and partially covers the steps that lead up to its front gate. A few arrow slits pierce its walls here and there, and a single shuttered window opens high upon the face of the fortress. A roof of metal shingles rises from its battlements where sentries keep lookout and siege weapons stand ready on corner turrets.
Now that the tower is fully into view, the cleric looks to the other officers and nods.
"We should probably head to the tower with our weapons bound. Show that we are not here for a fight, at least to start with. If we can talk, then we will be good to go, right?" She says to the group, holding her eyes on Maera and then on Indrana. "Right?"
Malak grunts, "I don't like this. At the very least, take all of our spellcasters, since they don't need the weapons..."
"I was worried ye'd say tha'," Aramis sighs, shaking her head at Sandara. "Not used ta bein' apart from me ol' friend." Stretching out her back, she grumpily relents, "But, I guess it makes sense enough. If we c'n all fit, we best be off. See if we can't take this thing on virtue a' pretty words alone. Sure you c'n handle tha', eh?" she adds, grinning admiringly at Maera.
"I agree Sandara, handling this peacefully is a wise idea. I'll go put on some gloves to hide my claws and I'll bring Maura with us, I know she'll enjoy the chance to get off the ship for a bit and having what appears to be a "regular cat" along could prove very useful." Maura seemed to preen a bit at the compliment. With that Indrana went below and found a pair of leather gloves and put them on, they weren't particularly fashionable but they'd suffice. When she returned she had her usual mage armor spell in place and bent to pick up Maura and place the cat on her shoulder.
I'll keep the men armed, just in case. Good luck.
"Wait. Ye mean ye're not comin' wit' us?" Aramis asks, wheeling to face Amos. Her normally accusing face melts for just a moment, showing genuine worry and concern. "An' 'ere I was gettin' used ta yer company," she mutters, shaking her head. She turns her back on the man, watching the Rock instead.
"Well, we doin' this or wha'?" she asks, a little louder and harsher than is entirely necessary.
Amos looks to Aramis. I was under the impression I was to stay. Do you wish me to come? I don't mind either way and will follow your orders, of course.
As Fury makes its approach towards the Rock, Maera will call for them to run up the colors of parley on the ship, and nods at Sandara's suggestion of peace-bonding her weapon. Malak's right. She doesn't need a blade to be dangerous. Well, I've gotten this far in life on pretty words alone," Maera replies blithely.
She murmurs prestidigitation cantrip to make her appearance a bit more presentable, using it to clean, and detangle her black hair, and watches the little play of Aramis and Amos performed before her. She tries not too smirk too much, rather interested in how Aramis will play this off, and wonders whether or not she ought to take the other woman aside later. "I am ready," she says simply.
Aramis is antsy at peace-bonding her musket. She's far too used to the familiar wood and steel in her hands, the feeling of security that comes from simply having it. The thought of not having Amos there either... "Well, I've kinda liked havin' ye 'round," she mutters, avoiding eye contact. "Ye seem well-travelled, pro'lly know a thing or two could help us out in there..."
"Rawwwwk! Got a nice arse!" Rotgut squawks, as if trying to help. Aramis' hand suddenly appears closed around the parrot's beak without appearing to traverse the intervening space.
Amos can't help the smirk that creeps across his face. He tries to stay as professional as possible, for his Captain's sake, though several perfectly opportune comments spring to mind. Yes maam. I'll be right there. Bullet could use the walk.
Scant minutes later Amos is dressed, cleaned, and ready to ride Bullet over the railing.
The group disembarks and a tower rises like a solid block from the sea at the edge of this island. The pounding surf rolls around its base and partially covers the steps that lead up to its front gate. A few arrow slits pierce its walls here and there, and a single shuttered window
opens high upon the face of the fortress. A roof of metal shingles rises from its battlements where sentries keep lookout and siege weapons stand ready on corner turrets.
A guard atop the battlements notices the lack of aggression and the fact that what little weaponry the group brought is heavily bound to have a meeting.
A few moments later he returns with an older mustached man and a middle aged woman who nods as the man speaks. "Please...don't move. Please explain to my Lady Smythee what it is that brings you here...and what it is that you want.
Maera tilts her head inquisitively at the title of 'Lady,' wondering if it's only a formality, but it couldn't hurt pretty up her speech a bit anyway. She bows her head respectfully, saying, "I am Captain Maera, the Mermaid of Fury. We've goods for sale, recovered curiosities from a Cyclopean Ruin, as well as this rare deep platinum necklace I wear around my neck that might be of interest to the Lady. Our own interest, however, is merely in pleasant conversation, and perhaps to see more of the fabled Rock. As a bard, too often do I deal in art and artifice. It is... enlightening to see which tales are true." She smiles briefly, and adds, "Regardless, for your time, I offer my voice to you in a performance. Free Captain Pegsworthy himself spoke quite complimentary of it."
The druid whistles at their approach towards the tower, just low enough that the group can tell even the druid is impressed by its scope.
Diabolito remains silent while the more verbose of the group speak.
Amos stands behind his captain and man's the oars (assumably with Diabolito). The fort is well positioned and maintained, but he notes that the fort isn't exactly teeming with soldiers and whispers this up to the diplomats.
As Aramis watches the Rock approach, Rotgut tries in vain to free his beak from the thin strip of leather tied around it. He gives a muffled squawk, digging his claws into Aramis' shoulder. "Nope. Not ready ta free ye yet. Ye're gonna hafta put up with it a while longer, ye lyin' bird. Maybe tha'll teach ye ta keep yer big beak shut." She smirks, amused by the bird's indignant ruffling and noises.
She keeps her arms folded across her chest, briefly raising her hands to show they're empty. "Nice goin', lass," she mutters to Maera. Raising her voice, she calls, "An' I'm Cap'n Aramis Elizabeth Mirian Steele. As tha lady says, we're 'ere ta talk. Lovely place ye got 'ere; we'd love ta see more of it."
Rotgut tries to repeat Aramis' last words, but all that he can manage is a muffled screech.
The woman nods again and then turns and walks back inside.
The man calls out to the group. "There are conditions that must be met before you may enter into our keep. It is a matter of trust and trusting you into our inner sanctum is giving you quite a lot of it. As such...we need a hostage. One of your number that we will keep under guard until all dealings are done." He pauses for a moment turns and looks over his shoulder as if he is being told something, then turns back, [b]"One of your number needs to be left at our gate...unarmed...and everyone else needs to be back at least a hundred feet or so.."
With that he stops and waits for their response.
Aramis mutters a curse, her face darkening like the sky before a storm. "Well, tha's a b$!##," she growls. "I'm inclined ta suggest either Furball or Whiskers, meself."
Of course you are, Captain, but I say let me stay. I volunteer.
"Nope, I'm thinkin' practical. Laugh all ye want, but me years as a merc taught me a thing 'r two, an' ye gotta think smart." Aramis nudges the side of her nose with her thumb, leaving a small smudge of blackpowder she appears not to notice. "E'rythin' goes ta hell, whoever's in there needs ta get out as soon's they can, eh? Whiskers, now, 'e c'n turn feral an' chow down on anyone that tries anythin'. Furball's got enough fancy mind magics she c'n prolly turn a man's 'ead ta jelly. Puttin' aside tha fact I'd rather 'ave you in there wit' us, if e'rythin' goes south, what've ye got? No gun, no 'orse, an' somethin's like ta 'appen to ye." She glances sideways to Maera, adding, "A' course, me co-cap'n might think otherwise."
Rotgut finally manages to free his beak and squawks loudly to punctuate the captain's speech as effectively as any apostrophe. "Rawwwk! Contingency plan!" he adds, looking very pleased with himself.
"No, your instincts are the same as mine. Hope for the best, but plan for the worst. If we didn't need me and my fancy words, I'd damn well say I'd be the best choice," she says quietly, and looks to Indrana and Diabolito in turn. "Regardless, it won't be us that breaks this truce with one of you held hostage, I can promise you that. This is fact-finding, not a subterfuge."
Amos bristles a bit, but maintains his composure. I can handle myself. But it is a captain's decision. I'll follow your lead.
Indrana listened to all the suggestions and said, "I'll go, Maura will come with me for an added boost to my abilities. You've never seen all she can do because some of it is a problem for you as well as our enemies. If it's just me then there's no way her abilities can cause the rest of you problems. Between my magic, claws, and Maura I should be able to deal with whatever they try should things go badly." The golden kitten had a satisfied smirk on her feline face and jumped into Indrana's arms belly up. The tiefling woman began to scratch the cats belly and cooed, "Yes, you're a brave kitten aren't you."
Maura's only response was a haughty, "Mrow."
After the instructions are followed, Lady Smythee is there on the other side of the door as the group can see Indrana led within.
The lady of the keep smiles and gives you a nod, "Come dear, I have tea steeping for you while you wait. Just because you are...a hostage...does not mean you can't be treated to all of our graces," with that she reaches out and pets the cat gently. "Lovely," she says though her eyes stay locked on Indrana's as she says it. She then leads the Sorcerer to a small sitting room and has each of them a cup of tea poured. There is one guard staying with them, as well as a servant. "I hope you can find some comfort," as she says it, she offers Indrana a seat in a plush chair. "I am Lady Agasta Smythee," the commanding woman says. She was once a rare beauty, but now in her middle years she has filled out her big-boned frame into a stocky matron, though she still remains a handsome, if rough-edged, woman. "While I wish I could stay, I do need to go and attend to your companions..." and with that she exits before Indrana can even speak, leaving her with a guard and a servant, both of which look at her with soft smiles.
After a few moments the door opens again and the older gentleman from above is now there, standing just outside. "Welcome, newcomers, please...come in! I am Royster McCleagh, the Sergeant-At-Arms for Tidewater Rock...please...allow me to show you to the dining room. The Lady's cooks are busy at preparing dinner for everyone..."
The dwarf grins widely.
"Real food? Now you're speakin my language!" the dwarf grins after a long, appreciative silence.
Maera gestures for Conchobar to bring their goods for sale to be inspected, and gives Indrana a nod of solidarity before the latter woman is led away. As she's certain other members of their party will keep their attention on numbers, fortifications, and defenses, Maera focuses her efforts on being as charming as she can. "That is very generous of her Ladyship."
Aramis keeps an eye on fortifications and defenses, trying to ignore the itching in her hands and the absence of warm wood and cold steel. "Be god ta get some real food," she agrees. "Ya get many visitors 'ere?"
The officers are led to dinner with the group being treated to a full banquet and each of them have a place at the huge table. And at the head of the table sits the Lady Smythee.
"I am glad to see you willing to talk. So often people think that they need to 'Crack the Rock' and so they attack. Diplomacy is a much kinder way to handle things...besides not even the Free Captain Harrigan could best our defenses!"
"So...you are here. You came to me. What do you seek?" she says with a smile as she sips from her wine.
Maera is sure to sit near the Lady. When Harrigan is mentioned, there's a flash of venom in her eyes that she cannot hide, and she scoffed, "He would think that force was the only avenue for anything. You have my highest admiration for besting that blackguard."
She partakes a little in the Lady's hospitality, though she doesn't seem to touch the wine, and she smiles briefly when her Ladyship cuts through idle chitchat to the point of the conversation. "Whether you might have any interest in a mutually beneficial alliance - allow Fury the privilege of the Rock as a safe port of call. It's a natural fortification, even if it could use a bit more bodies to man it, and the fact that no one has breached it thus far speaks highly to its defensive capabilities." She tilts her head thoughtfully. "Bloodcove's a viper's nest, and I trust Port Peril even less. After what many of us have suffered, it would be a relief to have a place to call our own."
She waits a moment for this to be considered, and continues, "In return, beside the obvious opportunity to purchase first any of the goods we take at sea, I can offer the aid of Fury, and any further ships we may add to our fleet in your defense should ever the need arise - and I fear if I know anything about Harrigan, it may arise. He is a man that does not take defeat humbly, and probably holds a grudge as well as I do. Should he ever raise his hand against you again, I would delight in being able to cut it off."
"Tha' 'Arrigan won' be so tough wit'out 'is botswain an' first mate," Aramis grins around a crusty slice of bread. Catching the look on Maera's face, she swallows, stops herself from wiping her mouth on her sleeve, and makes sure to not talk with her mouth full for the remainder of the dinner. "Migh' still 'ave a few a' their skull fragments in Fury's deck, come ta think of it." Catching another look, she sighs, sullenly digging into her fish. Sure, her table manners were lacking, and she wasn't so great at all this fancy talk, but it had never really come up until now. After a sudden realization, she sets her hat aside as well, painfully aware of the dreadful state of her hair (in both cut and cleanliness).
Amos does his best to cover for Aramis. My captains are fierce, my lady. he says as he subtlety motions to the appropriate fork to use.