Skull & Shackles (solo, complete) (Inactive)

Game Master Whack-a-Rogue

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Island of Empty Eyes

Infamy: 50
Disrepute: 1
Plunder: 21/22


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Retired to SUMITHA

'A manifestation of violence throughout history.' Nodding, '"History? Should have known, didn't learn much history aboard ship. Guess one of these days I should by a book about it." Shrugging happily, "But in the meantime, let's get to the docks and pass out more loot to the crew."
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Hearing that several people had heard about his fight with the junk construct Elek realized that the Consortium had probably heard his name as well. Heading to the 'Pirate's Hook' he made sure he remained near several of the crew the rest of the evening. Finding "Artful" he had him add a couple of guards to each shift on the 'Revenge.'

Flying to the ship that night directly from the 'Pirate's Hook', when he got around that next morning, he flew directly back there as well. Spending most of the sixth day, buying rounds for his crew and other sailors, looking to add crew to the 'Revenge.'

Day six: recruiting
recruiting: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (10) + 17 = 27


Ship Selling: 4d20 + 17 ⇒ (5, 10, 5, 17) + 17 = 54
A buyer has been found for the Dowager Queen.
You gain 3,450gp + the 850gp I accidentally calculated earlier.


Retired to SUMITHA

Ending the sixth day in port at the 'Pirate's Hook' Elek meets with the 'Private investor's' representative who was purchasing the 'Dowager Queen.' Once they haggled on the price a bit, Elek agreed to the offer. Celebrating he purchased a round for the buyers and his crew sitting near. At he end of the sixth night, he flew straight to the 'Revenge' attempting to not tempt fate too much with the 'Consortium,

The morning of the seventh day, Elek stopped in the hold for a moment looking at the [i]'Dowager Queen's['/i] Captain. Satisfied that she had been being fed regularly and her chamber pot at least dumped. Not sure of what to say, he watched her for a moment,

not sure what he would want to say to her, so just observing.
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Flying back to Bloodcove one last time Elek hangs out at the 'Pirate's Hook' attempting to convince more sailors to join his crew. While reminding his crew to be at the docks that night, they would load up and sail with the tide.

Day seven: recruiting
recruiting: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (10) + 17 = 27
#: 1d4 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 2 = 4


?: 1d100 ⇒ 69

You're able to recruit a few more sailors. Combined with the new equipment you've purchased for your crew, you'll field quite the fighting force next time your ship finds itself in battle.

Keeping things relatively quiet proves to be a good idea, as you're beginning to spot the occasional eye on you as you go about your business. It appears to simply be observation for the time-being, but it's probably best not to push your luck.

What are your plans for the captured captain?


Retired to SUMITHA

As the sun begins to go down on the seventh day, Elek posts "Artful" and Breaker on the docks to make sure all of crew are loaded onto the ships boats. It was after midnight that the last crewmember staggered to the docks, but everyone was aboard ship before the tide.

As the sun was rising and the tide was going out, Elek had the Chelaxian captain brought above decks. Her wounds having been healed, and only her pride worse for wear. He lifts his cursed hand smiling at the woman, "Never let it be said that Elek Kardforgató treated a prisoner as badly as he was treated by the chelaxians." He gestures towards the docks on the far side of the bay. "There be Bloodcove, you may find a few of your crew still there." He shrugs and smiles telling the cursed harpoon hand "Fēng."
Calling up a wind. He commands Artful, "Mr. Rogers please remove the Captains shackles." Turning to 'Crimson' and 'Breaker' "Toss her over boys, hopefully she knows how to swim."

Turning his back on the captain, Elek points to the great winch, "Raise the anchor, full sails, we sail towards Tidewater Rock. Let's see if Besmara blesses us with anymore ships!" He causes the wind to stir the new silk sails. Turning to the Dwarf Ulfric, "Mr Ironbeard, let me introduce you to our helmsman Mr. Rattsberger he will be instructing you in the fine art of the coxswain."


The Chelaxian captain is a pretty good swimmer, as it turns out. Still, you'll be long gone before she makes it to shore. Your mercy is laudable, but Cheliax isn't known for its forgiving nature....
?: 1d100 ⇒ 96 (my random dice absolutely love you for some reason)
Sails on the horizon! A Sargavan galleon lurches from the impact of a catapult shot upon its stern that shatters its rudder. It heels over hard and feathers until its sails luff and it drifts to a stop. Its attacker, a Shackles drekar, runs in hard to guard its prize.


Retired to SUMITHA

Does Elek recognize the flag on the Shackles drekar, is it a 'free captain?"
knowledge {civilization): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (14) + 9 = 23
lore (ancestors): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16

Seeing the sails on the horizon, Elek lifts his spyglass as he tells Ratline, "Mr Rattsberger, hard to port, full sails, let's see if we can't pluck that chicken." After getting a good look at the two vessels. He speaks the name of the wind. "Fēng" Handing the spyglass to the dwarf Ulfric, as he concentrates on pushing the wind into the new silk sails. Telling Ratline, "I'll take the helm Mr Ratline, when were close enough to board her, I'll let you have her back." Calling to the crew. "Battle stations. I intend to board her!"

profession Sailor just in case? do the new sails help any here?
profession sailor: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (10) + 12 + 2 = 24
profession sailor: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 12 + 2 = 15
profession sailor: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (2) + 12 + 2 = 16
profession sailor: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 12 + 2 = 28
profession sailor: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (11) + 12 + 2 = 25


You recognize the ship as the Devil's Pallor, under the flag of Free Captain Gortus Svard. Gortus is a hobgoblin who's fairly skilled with a falcata. You also know that Free Captains are forbidden from attacking each other. You're not a Free Captain, though....

Just making sure you still want to engage based on this information. XD


Retired to SUMITHA

'Wonder if attacking a free captain will get me an appointment with the Hurricane King faster or slower.' Giving a wild grin, "Heave to ya lubbers, Gortus Svard would take us if he could, we may as well return the favor." As they near the two ships, Elek tells his cursed prosthetic " Chéngwéi dàpào." The wind slacks ever so slightly as he takes his focus off, telling the brass and pewter arm cannon to place his mantle on him. "Dìmàn". Refocusing on the wind, he watches the deck of the Devil's Pallor to see where Gortus goes and how many sailors he keeps around him.


As you approach, the Devil's Pallor fires upon your ship with a pair of light ballistae.
Attack Ship: 2d20 + 4 ⇒ (1, 13) + 4 = 18 (one hit)
Ship Damage: 6d8 ⇒ (7, 5, 2, 5, 5, 8) = 32

In addition to your regular actions (Weather sphere, etc), you have the option to give one order per round. The options are Evasive Maneuvers, Return Fire, Full Ahead, or Fix It.


Retired to SUMITHA

Smiling a wolfish smile as the 'Devil's Parlor' fire her tow ballistae, Elek gives the command. "Return Fire!" Pushing the wind into the sails, hoping to close the distance quickly.


Giffer's crew returns fire with gusto. The resulting salvo tears large holes in the other vessel's sail.
Banshee's Revenge: 2d20 + 5 ⇒ (11, 12) + 5 = 28 (two hits)
Damage: 12d8 ⇒ (5, 8, 5, 3, 7, 2, 8, 5, 5, 5, 1, 2) = 56

The Devil's Pallor fires at you once again as your ships continue to close.
Attack Ship: 2d20 + 4 ⇒ (17, 16) + 4 = 37 (two hits)
Ship Damage: 12d8 ⇒ (3, 7, 4, 6, 1, 8, 6, 8, 6, 4, 3, 2) = 58

Meanwhile, the Sargavan vessel appears to be preparing to flee. It'll take some time, but it does bear keeping an eye on.

One more round until battle is joined.


Retired to SUMITHA

Holding steady as the 'Revenge' returns fire and as the 'Devil's Parlor' fires a second time. "Return fire, when we close grapple her. We need to take the long boat before the galley escapes." Hoping to catch the ships before either crew cut's lines, Elek releasing the wheel to Rattine, "Keep her steady Mr. Rattsberger." Looking to the sails again Elek calls on the power of the cursed prosthetic, to keep the wind steady without him concentrating. " Tiānjiā fǎshù diǎn."

Spent spell pool to maintain wind for two minutes.


Giffer's crew tears more holes in the other ship's sail.
Banshee's Revenge: 2d20 + 5 ⇒ (11, 18) + 5 = 34 (two hits)
Damage: 12d8 ⇒ (4, 7, 3, 4, 7, 8, 1, 7, 1, 6, 1, 1) = 50
The Devil's Pallor only has time for one more volley before you're in grapple range.
Attack Ship: 2d20 + 4 ⇒ (2, 16) + 4 = 22 (one hit)
Ship Damage: 6d8 ⇒ (4, 3, 2, 6, 8, 1) = 24
Your crew prepares itself for boarding, but you can see the enemy crew doing the same.
Elek Initiative: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (2) + 8 = 10
Gortus Initiative: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 2 = 20
The hobgoblin's crew attempts a boarding action of their own, hoping their greater numbers will overwhelm you.

From the helm, Gortus fires a crossbow at you before drawing his falcata and preparing to rush in.
Attack: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (18) + 7 = 25 Damage: 1d8 ⇒ 3
If that hit you
Demoralize vs PSD: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 5 = 6


Retired to SUMITHA

"Blast!" Unable to dodge the crossbow bolt, Elek curses as it nicks his shoulder. The idea of exchanging volleys evaporates as he tells the cursed prosthetic, "huí dào yú chā shǒu!" As the cannon reverses to the cursed harpoon hand, he tells it "Fēi" and flies off the deck of the 'Revenge' drawing his estoc as he goes. Landing near the Hobgoblin. "Names Captain Kardforgató."

As he shifts his feet slightly, having both weapons at the ready. "I assume by the look of that Falcata your not interested in surrendering.' Not waiting for an answer he calls on the full destructive power of the curse and the wild magic of the fey witches. " Pòhuài lì, Kuángcháo, Tiānjiā fǎshù diǎn." thrusting the cursed harpoon at the hobgoblin captain.

Free action: Switch cursed prosthetic, move action fly drawing estoc, standard: attack + 2 Fey-forged Hook Hand (Charisma damage), Power attack, destructive blast, wild magic, spell point, crafted blast: piercing
attack: 1d20 + 9 + 2 - 2 ⇒ (14) + 9 + 2 - 2 = 23 for damage: 1d4 + 2 + 4 + 4 + 4d6 ⇒ (1) + 2 + 4 + 4 + (6, 6, 4, 5) = 32


Wild Magic wrote:
An area out to Close range of the target is covered in crystals as per the Crystal Blast talent.

A 35ft-radius of difficult terrain will certainly shake things up. XD

Your weapon strikes the captain, and the resulting magic covers the deck in icy caltrops. "Don't know you, and I don't care. Your crew's outnumbered, and you just pissed off the toughest vessel in miles. Enjoy the bottom of the ocean."
Attack: 2d20 + 10 ⇒ (12, 10) + 10 = 32 (hits AC 22)
Damage: 1d8 + 4 ⇒ (8) + 4 = 12

Regardless of the attack's success, I'll need a Will Save DC 14. On a failure, your next attack is rolled twice, taking the worse result.


Retired to SUMITHA

will: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (3) + 7 = 10

Feeling the Falcata slash through his lamellar armor Elek grits his teeth; "Ha, my crews fresh and your vessels won't be anything once I break all your oars.: Resetting his feet, Last chance, drop the blade I let you live." Feeling weird, he determines to keep thinks simple and continue using his magic. Telling the prosthetic, ”Pòhuài lì, Kuángcháo, Tiānjiā fǎshù diǎn." he thrusts the cursed harpoon at the hobgoblin again.

standard: attack + 2 Fey-forged Hook Hand (Charisma damage), Power attack, destructive blast, wild magic, spell point, crafted blast: piercing
attack: 1d20 + 9 + 2 - 2 ⇒ (2) + 9 + 2 - 2 = 11
attack: 1d20 + 9 + 2 - 2 ⇒ (2) + 9 + 2 - 2 = 11 for damage: 1d4 + 2 + 4 + 4 + 4d6 ⇒ (2) + 2 + 4 + 4 + (3, 2, 4, 4) = 25 well I guess it's a good time to get those out of the way.


Wild Magic wrote:
The effect treats all affected creatures as if they possessed spell resistance equal to 10 + Hit Dice.

Doesn't matter, because your attack missed

The captain easily bats aside your attack. "In that case, I'll just have to take your ship."
Attack: 2d20 + 10 ⇒ (2, 20) + 10 = 32 (critical threat)
Damage: 1d8 + 4 ⇒ (4) + 4 = 8
Confirm: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (1) + 10 = 11 (doesn't confirm)
Crit Damage: 1d8 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 4 = 7


Retired to SUMITHA

'He's quicker than he looks.' The hobgoblin captain able to dodge his thrust, Elek wasn't expecting his opponent to parry so quickly. Receiving a deep slash on his shoulder for underestimating his opponent. Hearing the captains response, Elek gives a wolfish smile. "Yeah, good luck with that." He then feints for Svards shoulder with the cursed prosthetic, but slashes at his stomach instead. While at the same time thrusting the estoc at the hobgoblin's calf.

Feint + 2 Fey-forged Hook Hand, Attack: + 2 Fey-forged Hook Hand, PA, sneak, fatal thrust, TWF/+ 1 Estoc PA, TWF
feint: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (14) + 12 + 2 = 28
harpoon: 1d20 + 9 + 2 - 2 - 2 ⇒ (12) + 9 + 2 - 2 - 2 = 19 for damage: 1d4 + 2 + 4 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 2 + 4 + 4 = 13 SA: 3d6 ⇒ (4, 5, 5) = 14 FT: 2d6 ⇒ (3, 2) = 5
Estoc: 1d20 + 9 + 1 - 2 - 2 ⇒ (8) + 9 + 1 - 2 - 2 = 14 for damage: 2d4 + 4 + 4 ⇒ (2, 4) + 4 + 4 = 14
if the Sneak attack hits: Disoriented: The target takes a –2 penalty on attack rolls. In addition, the target takes an additional –2 penalty on all attack rolls it makes against the rogue.


You open a deep slash across Gortus' stomach. The hobgoblin is bleeding heavily, but there's still a little fight left in him - probably because he'd rather die than give up his ship and his prize.
Attack: 2d20 + 10 - 4 ⇒ (13, 18) + 10 - 4 = 37 (hits AC 24)
Damage: 1d8 + 4 ⇒ (6) + 4 = 10

Regardless of the attack's success, I'll need a Will Save DC 14. On a failure, your next attack is rolled twice, taking the worse result.


Retired to SUMITHA

will: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (19) + 7 = 26

"Blast your pride!" Cursing the Hobgoblin as he refuses to surrender, Elek jumps back trying to regain his footing. Still to slow for the Captains falcata, receiving a heavy slash on the side. Elek hisses, as the blade cuts deep. Raising his estoc, in salute. "Well struck. Now we finish this." Shifting back into his fighting stance. He calls again on the full destructive power of the curse and the wild magic of the fey witches. ”Pòhuài lì, Kuángcháo, Tiānjiā fǎshù diǎn." Dropping the estoc from the salute, he thrusts the cursed harpoon at Gortus Svard's chest.

standard: attack + 2 Fey-forged Hook Hand (Charisma damage), Power attack, destructive blast, wild magic, spell point, crafted blast: piercing
attack: 1d20 + 9 + 2 - 2 ⇒ (15) + 9 + 2 - 2 = 24 for damage: 1d4 + 2 + 4 + 4 + 4d6 ⇒ (1) + 2 + 4 + 4 + (5, 5, 1, 5) = 27 + 2 crafted blast


Wild Magic wrote:
The blast does slashing damage.

The curse twists your arm at the last second, and what should have been a precise thrust to the heart morphs into a ragged gash across Gortus' belly. It's not a pleasant death, unfortunately.

Crew: 4d20 + 10 + 6 ⇒ (1, 3, 18, 8) + 10 + 6 = 46
Damage: 2d4 ⇒ (1, 2) = 3
As their captain falls, so does his crew. While your pirates are outnumbered two-to-one, they're fresh and well-equipped. While they suffer some casualties beyond Sandara's ability to heal, the majority of them will survive.

Now you just need to decide what to do with the (many) survivors - and the Sargavan vessel that is beginning to sail away.


Retired to SUMITHA

Kicking the sword away from the dead captains body, Elek calls out, "Your Captains pride has killed him! I am Captain Elek Kardforgató of the 'Banshee's Revenge' and by Besmara I claim this ship!" He points towards the fleeing Sargavan vessel "And I intend to take that one as well." Looking at the crew of the 'Devil's Pallor' "You be pirates, If you want your fair share of what you've taken then man your oars and do as I say. Anyone that cooperates, will get a fair cut when we make it to port. Anyone who doesn't gets nothing." He gestures towards the 'Revenge' "Then any that want to sail with me will be welcome aboard."

two influence rolls, the first to talk the crew of the 'Devil's Pallor' to cooperate and row towards the ship. The second to see if any of them want to crew with us.
influence: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (17) + 17 = 34
influence: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (19) + 17 = 36
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Turning to his own crew, he calls out, "Syl, Jape, Rosie and Conchobhar stay on this tub and keep these swabs in line." He looks at Syl, knowing her nature. "Anyone give you trouble, feed 'em to the fishes." Waving his cursed prosthetic "The rest of my crew aboard the Revenge we've a Galleon to catch."

He will stay on the 'Devil's Pallor' long enough to learn the effect of the rolls and make sure their not going anywhere, then fly to the 'Revenge' to lead the next attack.


Crew: 1d4 + 2 ⇒ (1) + 2 = 3
A few of the crew step forward to join you, but the majority would prefer to wait and see if you'll back up your words with action. At the moment, though, you have another ship to catch.

Fortunately, the Sargavan vessel was damaged during Gortus' attack, and there are barely enough crew to sail the ship. Catching up takes only a few minutes, and the Sargavans are in no shape to resist.


Retired to SUMITHA

Seeing the three sailors step forward, Elek nods. 'As least that will replace those I've lost.' Turning to Conchobhar, he adds, "Mr Shortstone, get me an inventory of the plunder.' Pointing at the dead captain, "Get anything of value off of Svard then chuck him overboard."

Still under the extended power of the spell, Elek commands the cursed prosthetic, "Fēi" and flies to the 'Revenge'.

--------------------------------
Commanding Ratline, "Get us close to her Mr. Rattsberger." Turning to the crew, "One more time, when we come alongside of her cast the grappling hooks." Telling his cursed harpoon hand " Chéngwéi dàpào." As the 'Revenge' came alongside of the Sargavan galleon and the crew launched their grapples he concentrated on the wind telling the cursed arm canon. "Fēi." Flying to the deck of the injured ship, he landed about ten foot from the helm, pointing the arm cannon at the captain. "Tell your crew to stand down before this day gets much worse."

influence: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (3) + 17 = 20


Gortus was wielding a rather nice falchion (masterwork), but the more valuable find is the pair of light ballistae. (combined with their ammunition, they're worth 1 point of plunder in total. Or you can get them mounted to your stern to fire on anyone chasing you)

The Sargavan crew immediately stands down. Gortus had killed their captain, so they're leaderless. All they want to do is make it out of this alive. Their hold is filled with fruit and wool (worth 2 points of plunder).


Retired to SUMITHA

"I am Elek Kardforgató." he pauses, letting the name echo through the small group of sailors. "Four generations ago my family were Chelish nobles who humbly served the throne and Aroden. But Aroden died, the nobility turned on each other and the devil worshiping Thrunes took the throne." He gestures towards the sea. "We learned the hard way not to trust Nations, or Noblemen or gods all which make promises they can't or won't keep." He points towards his own ship with the cursed harpoon hand. "And we learned that the only way to live is free and in charge of our own destiny, Worshiping a deity that makes no promises but desires the same as we." He gestures towards the 'Devil's Parlor' "For what it's worth, I killed the swab that killed your captain." He points his right hand toward the Revenge, "Anyone who wants to join us, will be permitted to do so. We will take this ship to Senghor, everyone else will be allowed to disembark there."

Walking up to Sandara, "Ms Quinn, move the plunder from this ship to ours. Once the cargo is transferred, bring twenty crew members over. Set the crew to repairing her, I want top value for her when we get to port." He nods towards the Devil's Parlor "Still need to see if those swabs will cooperate or not. Be a pity to scuttle the ship instead of sell her." Calling over to his ship, "Mr Rattsberger, turn the 'Revenge' around and bring her along side the longship. While we strip her of anything valuable plot a course for Senghor. Once we get this little armada ready that's where we sail, we have a couple of ships to sell." Looking further down the deck, he calls to Giffer, "Ms Tibbs, I intend to move those baristas from that longship to the 'Revenge' I'll be needing you ready to help with that."

Seeing his subordinates acknowledge his commands, he tells the pewter and brass arm cannon " Fēi" and concentrates on returning to the 'Devil's Parlor.

The speach was hoping to get a few crew, What is this ships name?
influence: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (10) + 17 = 27
new recruits?: 1d4 + 2 ⇒ (4) + 2 = 6
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Flying back to the longship he lands near Syl and smiles. "Did any of these lubbers give you any trouble?" He looks around the deck at the crew. Moving towards Conchobhar, he asks, "Mr Shortstone what did you find in the hold?" Moving to the helm, he addresses the pirate crew again. "The 'Revenge' will return and strip this ship of it's plunder and those baristas. You've a choice to make, sail her one last time to Senghor and get your pay. Or I scuttle her here and leave you adrift. The choice is yours," He looks around for a first mate or someone to speak for the crew.

another influence just in case
influence: 1d20 + 17 ⇒ (19) + 17 = 36


Almost a third of the Sea Chanty's crew decide to join your crew. Gortus had been planning to sell them as slaves in Bloodcove, so the options you presented are much more appealing.

Gortus' crew have decided to agree to your terms. Seeing as they're going to lose the ship regardless, they're choosing to sail with you to Senghor. Even if you're lying about paying them, it's a better option than being cast adrift in the open ocean.


Retired to SUMITHA

Nodding approvingly, Elek tells his new recruits. "This is my first mate, Sandara Quinn she'll tell you what to do. Stay here on the Sea Chanty to help with repairs. When we reach port you'll get paid with my crew and given a little shore leave." He turns to the rest of the crew, "When we've reached Senghor, you will be released."
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Nodding as Gortus' number two tells him that they've accepted his offer, Elek nods, "That's fine, but you'll earn your pay." Not wanting to lose the other ships, "We'll rely on the sails to get us to Senghor, the rest of you lubbers start disassembling those ballistas."
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Once the've reached port He divvies the plunder and dismisses the crews of the 'Sea Chanty' and the 'Devil's Parlor.' Returning to the 'Banshees Revenge.' he tells his crew, "We've just come off leave, let's get these three ships ship shape before we take a couple of more days off." He gestures towards the docks, "I'll find out how soon we can sell these two boats and how much we'll make."

so keeping the crew on deck to get repairs done, will let them get to port soon enough. Using both plunder to pay first the Devil's parlor crew and the second to restock and pay Elek's crew. How many days to get the ships in good enough shape to sell and how much? knowledge check is for Senghor it's self.

knowledge(civilization): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (6) + 9 = 15


Senghor is one of the largest ports in the entire Shackles region and is known for its fair dealings. It's a conduit for a significant amount of the trade from Sargava and Avistan and is an extremely safe place. Most anything you can imagine can be found in its markets - as long as its legal. Senghor has two things it hates: slavers and pirates. Neither are allowed inside its walls. As a result, any advertising or boasting will need to be very discreet.

Pro: this is arguably the best port for selling plunder; Con: it'll be very hard to gain crew/Infamy.


Retired to SUMITHA
Your Benevolent Dictator wrote:
Pro: this is arguably the best port for selling plunder; Con: it'll be very hard to gain crew/Infamy.

Sadly, no plunder to sell. So rolling for crew or infamy, just higher numbers, or is there a chance to get arrested?

Returning to the ship, Elek tells his crew that it will take about a week to find a buyer; adding that will be about enough time to get the two vessels ready. Keeping the shore leave to a minimum, he rotates the crew, letting about a fourth of them go on shore leave each day. Reminding the crew that pirates are not popular here in Senghor and not to get arrested.

On the second day he invites Sandara to go shopping with him, he's explains that he's looking for an magic shop that could make or sell a magically 'keen' estoc. As they continued shopping he shared that eventually he'd purchase a 'Cloak of the Manta Ray.' He also asked her if she thought Senghor would be the right place to try and hire a wizard for the ship.

he has the money for the estoc, 2,350 gp. but he doesn't have the money for the cloak yet. Do we know what the value of the ships are?


There's a chance to get arrested; there's a sizeable and well-trained militia. Senghor also has their own navy, so escaping would prove difficult.

Finding an enchanter isn't particularly difficult, and you're told a keen weapon will only take two days to make.
?: 2d6 + 1 ⇒ (6, 6) + 1 = 13
As it turns out, one of the stores is selling a used cloak of the manta ray. The previous owner was killed in an unfortunate fishing accident, but the cloak has been repaired and is in 'like new' condition.

Ships: 10d20 + 17 ⇒ (17, 3, 11, 1, 14, 16, 4, 15, 19, 20) + 17 = 137
After factoring in repairs, it looks like you'll make a profit of 11,600gp once both ships are sold.


Retired to SUMITHA

Chuckling at the idea of the purchasing a 'like new' magical item, Elek puts a down payment on the cloak, to hold it until his ships are sold. As he walks with Sandara, he points out that an upgrade to his estoc will be forthcoming, but explains that he needs to improve the quality of his weapon. So he offers to prepare a sacrifice to Besmara, if tomorrow she would cast the spell to make the weapon masterwork.

Pleased with the improvements with the ships and how well his crew fought, he realizes they are truly vicious fighters.


Sandara is willing and able to do so for you.

Unless you were planning on doing something other than shopping, we can fast-forward.


Retired to SUMITHA

The morning of the third day in port, Elek made the offering and Sandara was able to make his beat up old Estoc look finely made. Afterwards Elek headed to the magic shop. Trading in the 'cruel whip' and the fancy falcata, Elek left his blade with the shop so it could be made magical.

Happy to fast forward :)


A pod of dolphins follows you for almost half the day as you set sail. A good omen? Perhaps it is, for the winds are in your favor, and your weather magic isn't necessary. Your new crew is impressed as the winds carry you around the ship.

Where do you want to go?


Retired to SUMITHA

Spending the morning looking at the charts, Elek moves to the upper deck "Mr Rattsberger, sail due north, we'll make for Goatshead, see if we can scare up any booty on the way." Turning towards Ulfric, he asks, "Mr Ironbeard, Have you had a chance to take the helm yet? Once we have sixty souls, I intend to run day and night. We'll sort our sleeping arrangements for those working the late shift."

Hopefully your random dice will continue showing Elek affection.


?: 1d100 ⇒ 60

Ulfric has, indeed, taken a shift at the helm. Turns out, he's a natural. The more complex maneuvers are still beyond him, of course, but with a little training, he'll be able to steer the Banshee's Revenge anywhere.

As the sun sets, a ship suddenly comes into view, sailing against the wind. The glaring light behind it makes the details of the vessel difficult to make out, but its lines suggest a whaler riding low in the water. As the last light of day disappears below the horizon, the distant ship also drops from sight in the gloom of twilight.


Retired to SUMITHA

Having no desire to steal or sell blubber, Elek turns to to Ratline. "Mr Rattsberger, find a small inlet on the southern side of Firegrass Isle to put in for the night." Turning to his Master-at-arms, "Mr. Roger's set a standard watch." As he stepped away from the helm, he approached Bonnie, waving Breaker over. "Mr Blades, In the morning at dawn take a couple of crew and head to the Island with a cask. We'll top off the water before we sail." He hands Breaker the castaway's flare. "If something goes awry, activate this, I'll come flying."
---------------------------
In the morning When the 'ship's boat' returns with more water, Elek orders they sail around the south-western tip of the island, then head north to hug the coast on their way between Mgange Cove island and the mainland.

Not sure where were headed yet, but sailing past Ngozu quickly, looking for prey.


Not sailing away just yet, I'm afraid. XD

As you prepare to make your way out of the inlet, your lookout spots the rigging of a large ship rising above the trees in the cove ahead. A closer inspection reveals the cove is completely dominated by a huge warship named, appropriately enough, Dominator. Atop the rigging of the massive four-masted ship fly the colors of the Empire of Cheliax. It's clear that the heavily-armed vessel, with a full company of armored marines mustered on deck, is a pirate hunter.

Good News: It doesn't appear to be aware of your presence.
Bad News: It's blocking your way out and will almost certainly destroy you in a fight.


Retired to SUMITHA

Quickly calling "Full Stop!" Elek snatches up the spy glass moving to the rail, he looks at the ship, it's location in the cove and how much of a head start they would need to evade it. Lowering the spy glass, he turns and smiles at Sandara. "It may be time to use the elemental gem we got from our shaman friend."

Knowledge checks for any information on the ships size. ability and tactics. Would it hold it's place until nightfall? Or would it eventually leave, or eventually see us?
profession (Sailor): 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (10) + 12 = 22
knowledge(civilization, martial or engineering: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (11) + 9 = 20
lore ancestor: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (11) + 9 = 20


Retired to SUMITHA
Your Benevolent Dictator wrote:
Giffer's Invention wrote:
The Quick Carver: A large very sharp knife. When the blade meets resistance, it begins to vibrate to aid in cutting. This may allow the knife to cut through harder objects or to cut through more material faster. The strength of this vibration is random though. When a character uses this knife roll a D20 -5 to determine the vibration's DC. The character must roll Sleight of Hand against this DC. On a failed check, the character or another nearby creature or object takes 1d6 slashing damage. WARNING - It is not advised to sheath this knife.

Pausing for a moment, Elek turns to Giffer and asks, "Miss Tibbs, that Quick Carver you invented, how well would it work under water?" He holds up the slightly used black cloak. "Between this cloak and your butter knife, one of us may be able to do some real damage to that ship." He shrugs and turns back towards the ship. "Well if not the ship then the rudder at least,"


The Dominator is a Chelish man-o'-war that's a pirate hunter of some repute. It's armed with almost two dozen ballistae and several catapults. In addition to crew, there are well over 100 marines onboard - all seasoned combat veterans. It's also faster than your vessel.

Like you, it's probably here to replenish its supply of fresh water and isn't currently aware of your presence. Of course, if you were to try to sail away, it would notice you very quickly. You're out of view for the moment, so as long as you stay quiet for a few days (until the Dominator has sailed far away from here), you'll be safe.

After some consideration, damaging their rudder is also a viable - but risky - option. A few people could possibly sneak aboard under cover of darkness and cut the tiller's pulley ropes. That would leave the ship crippled for hours - enough time for you to get a generous head start and possibly lose them entirely.


Retired to SUMITHA

Seeing the man-o'-war at the mouth of the inlet, Elek takes a little time to make a plan. Initially thinking of flying a small group of his best 'quite killer's' he decides to go it alone and not put any of his crew at risk. As he explains his plan to Sandara, he tells her. "When you see the flames on deck make a run for open sea, I'll meet you at the mouth of the inlet." Telling the night watch to rouse him a couple hours before dawn, Elek goes and gets what sleep he can.

Awakened by Ulfric banging on the door, Elek rolls out of the hospitality hammock and gets started. He gather the gear he will needs, most of which is what he normally carries. Having borrowed the Quick Carver from Giffer, not wanting to be encumbered he leaves his knife and sap in his cabin. Greeting his evening guard and the few officers who had risen early as well, he reminds them "Be ready to sail before dawn." He then slips over the rail and down the cargo netting into the water.

'Good to see the slightly used cloak works.' He watches in wonder as he slips into the salt water and his shape takes on that of a Manta Ray. Swimming near the surface so he can still see a little, he lifts his hand amd cursed prosthetic, oddly pleased as they form out from the manta ray body. Smiling he starts to swim towards the man-o'-war.

As he nears the boat he swims around to the aft side, carefully taking the Quick Carver from where he had it secured, 'I hope this works, I'd rather not have to saw through it with the cursed harpoon hand.' He presses the blade against the heavy ropes that secured and turned the rudder.


Vibration Strength: 1d20 - 5 ⇒ (8) - 5 = 3 (that's unfortunate)
It seems the Quick Carver doesn't work particularly well underwater. Maybe it's the salt water, or just the water in general, but it's not carving much of anything.

Getting it dried off will merit a new check, though. That'll necessitate cutting in a new location, though. If you're not wanting to go inside just yet, you could try flying or climbing partway up the rope.


Retired to SUMITHA

'Well that's unfortunate.' Seeing the rope go up and into the wheel house, Elek decides to scale the tiller rope itself. Taking his time he climbs the rope, squeezing through the opening. Looking quickly about the small room he lets the Quick Carver dry while he considers his next plan. Trying to determine, once the rope is cut, whether he wants to go back outside and climb to the deck or go through the building, he thinks about his engineering class and what should be outside of the wheel house.

After waiting a few tense moments, he tries the Quick Carver on the rope again.

Obviously if the room isn't empty everything after the second sentence will have to happen after he kills the occupant. Taking 10(15) on climbing and 10(18) on stealth rolling. Engineering roll is for educated guess on what's on the other side of the door from the wheel house
knowledge (engineering): 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (7) + 9 = 16


As you're waiting for the Quick Carver to dry, the wheelhouse door opens, and a Chelish sailor walks in. By his uniform, you recognize him as the boatswain.
Elek Initiative: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (11) + 8 = 19
Boatswain Initiative: 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 1 = 2
Fortunately, you'd positioned yourself out of immediate view from the doorway, so you have a handful of seconds before he notices you.

In other words, Surprise Round + First Round of Combat. Or, if you don't want to fight, you've got three seconds before you're seen.


Retired to SUMITHA

I'm assuming the room is small enough to 5 ft step and attack

'Come on, hurry up and dry...what the...' Hearing the door open, Elek catches motion out of his peripheral vision. Not wanting to make any noise he resist the urge to command the cursed harpoon hand. Turning quickly, he thrusts the harpoon hand at the man. Then drawing his estoc, he feints again with the cursed prosthetic, slashing in in uppercut at the mans shoulder then thrusting for his chest. While he drives the estoc at the mans throat, hoping to keep him from crying out.

Surprise round, 5 ft step, sneak attack + 2 Fey-forged Hook Hand, PA, sneak, fatal thrust
harpoon: 1d20 + 9 + 2 - 2 ⇒ (2) + 9 + 2 - 2 = 11 for damage: 1d4 + 2 + 4 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 2 + 4 + 4 = 12 SA: 3d6 ⇒ (1, 1, 3) = 5 FT: 2d6 ⇒ (1, 4) = 5
Move action: draws Estoc, Feint + 2 Fey-forged Hook Hand, Attack: + 2 Fey-forged Hook Hand, PA, sneak, fatal thrust, TWF/+ 1 Estoc PA, TWF
feint: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (18) + 12 + 2 = 32
harpoon: 1d20 + 9 + 2 - 2 - 2 ⇒ (2) + 9 + 2 - 2 - 2 = 9 for damage: 1d4 + 2 + 4 + 4 ⇒ (3) + 2 + 4 + 4 = 13 SA: 3d6 ⇒ (6, 1, 2) = 9 FT: 2d6 ⇒ (5, 3) = 8
Estoc: 1d20 + 9 + 1 - 2 - 2 ⇒ (11) + 9 + 1 - 2 - 2 = 17 for damage: 2d4 + 4 + 4 ⇒ (3, 1) + 4 + 4 = 12
Wow, talk about terrible attack rolls. I don't think the 11 will hit him even flat footed, but if it does, and if it kills him, Elek will try and catch him and lower him to the ground instead of drawing the estoc and killing him some more,


Your hand's curse chooses the worst times to manifest itself, and this is no exception. The initial thrust spears the door frame, and your subsequent blows miss as the officer jumps back in shock. Hurriedly retrieving a signal whistle from his belt, he blows it loudly. "We're under attack!"

Unfortunately for him, that's a full-round action.


Retired to SUMITHA

Sad the 17 missed.

"Blast it!" Cursing as the boatswain calls out, Elek sets his feet again as the whistle sounds. Chopping with the harpoon hand in a feint he then thrusts the cursed prosthetic at the mans chest as he brings the estoc up and slashes at his groin. Realizing the estoc missed, Elek looks further down the hall to see if anyone is immediately responding.

Feint + 2 Fey-forged Hook Hand, Attack: + 2 Fey-forged Hook Hand, PA, sneak, fatal thrust, TWF/+ 1 Estoc PA, TWF
feint: 1d20 + 12 + 2 ⇒ (9) + 12 + 2 = 23
harpoon: 1d20 + 9 + 2 - 2 - 2 ⇒ (11) + 9 + 2 - 2 - 2 = 18 for damage: 1d4 + 2 + 4 + 4 ⇒ (1) + 2 + 4 + 4 = 11 SA: 3d6 ⇒ (6, 6, 4) = 16 FT: 2d6 ⇒ (5, 4) = 9
Estoc: 1d20 + 9 + 1 - 2 - 2 ⇒ (4) + 9 + 1 - 2 - 2 = 10 for damage: 2d4 + 4 + 4 ⇒ (2, 4) + 4 + 4 = 14

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