@salty: Your alchemical knowledge allows you to easily deduce that the liquid is a highly potent alchemist’s fire.
With all the crew at their stations the Lady Sue somehow picks up speed, holding the other ship at a constant distance. If there was any doubt left that the thin ship was friendly, this vanishes when a large red flag emblazoned with a pair of crossed flaming Scimitars is raised above the mast. The hopes of avoiding combat further decreases as smaller triangular sails are unfurled along the lines linking the main hull to the outriggers.
Now under extra sail, the hostile ship begins to gain on the Lady Sue. Upon the Lady Sue, the stern ballistae crew aim the large equipment at the approaching ship but Captain Loophook stops them from firing saying ”Wait till they get closer when our shots will count.”
The hostile ship doesn’t seem to share the Captain’s view with regards to their weapons. As soon as the Captain gives the order to hold fire, a large iron bolt flies into the sea to the left of the Lady Sue. The enemy ship continues to send probing shots like this. For the most part, these have little impact on Lady Sue other than intimidation. A few hit the rear quarter of the ship with a resounding thud.
Time passes in this manner and you start to see the hostile ship more clearly. It has a high prow with what previously looked like a ram actually revealed as being a reinforced metal prow. The main hull sweeps steeply down, meaning that the deck is very close to the water’s surface. However, over the top of this is a wooden lattice deck, upon which you can see the ship’s crew moving freely. The line of the hull sweeps up sharply at the back to where the bridge is presumed to be, but your vision of the precise nature of the bridge is obscured by the unfurled large red sails. At the top of the largest mast is a covered crow’s nest. The outriggers seem to be connected to each other by a sturdy wooden walkway without rails. This in turn is connected loosely to the main body of the ship, allowing both outriggers and hull to move independently for greater manoeuvrability. On top of the outriggers themselves, what looks like 8 crossbows fixed together into a form of siege machine can be seen.
Captain Loophook finally gives the order for the rear ballistae to return fire. At this range, the first two bolts fired from the Lady Sue hit the armoured prow of the approaching ship but deflect off harmlessly into the sea. She shouts: ”Aim high for the rigging and score me a hit, then use the fire shots to slow her down! This proves to be more difficult than it appears as the helmsman of the enemy ship is as skilled as Ms. Avalon and under evasive manoeuvres the ballistae crew of the Lady Sue struggle to land any direct hits. All the while the hostile ship closes in. The Captain bellows the order: ”Ms. Avalon, hold this course steady. Everyone else, prepare your ranged weapons. “
The approaching ship is around 200 foot away currently. You may have 5 shots each at it at this range before we go to a closer increment. you must specify who each shot aims at. Those without ranged weapons may use a heavy crossbow.
To hit outrigger crew AC 15 (no cover):
To hit ballistae crew (i. cover) AC 23:
To hit deck crew (s. cover) AC 19.
If you wish to do something other than take 5 shots please let me know as you may also get the opportunity to shoot. At this stage, initiative is not required. Good luck: I will post the return fire tomorrow!
Ms. Avalon raises a quizzical eyebrow at Joan. ”Sails, you say?” She then looks in the direction Joan is pointing and takes a spyglass out. She raises it to her eye, scanning the horizon. Just before Joan leaves, she says I can’t see any sign of sails, it doesn’t mean there are none there.”
Mirandir gives the rites as Morven and Nayli untie the bodies. They finish just as Elenia returns to the deck with the spare hammocks. Respectfully, each body is placed inside of the hammocks, with the hammock wrapped around them and then sewn shut. 2 pieces of silver are placed on each body, in each right hand.
As you work, word reaches the crew and many come out upon deck to pay their respects to their fellow seamen.
As Elenia is sewing up one of the hammocks, she notices something strange about the clothing on the body. It appears to be of fine quality and seems to be an undershirt, similar to the ones worn by the officers of this very ship. It would be reasonable to then assume that these 6 were not your average crew members. Mirandir also notices this but studying the soft skins on the hands of the bodies, he is fairly sure that the deceased sailors are indeed persons who held some form of rank.
With the rites for each body concluded, they are commended to the deep. The rowing boat is taken into the workshop for repair.
The Captain watches the whole event without saying a word but, when the last body pops into the water, she speaks to Joan: ”Show me where you saw these sails, Ms Porter.” and with that, she hands Joan a spyglass. Joan looks through the spyglass but is unable to spot the sails. The Captain then goes on to say: ”I need your sharp eyes on watch more than I need you mending and folding my clothes. Get to the bridge and alert myself or Ms. Avalon at the first sign of another ship.
You are all on edge for the rest of your watch. The wind drops noticeably, which does little to alleviate the situation or calm your nerves. Finally, on the horizon, Joan’s vigilance pays off as she spots once again, the 4 triangular blood-red sails with the aid of her spyglass. She calls to Ms. Avalon who takes the Captain’s spyglass from Joan and looks for herself. She says: [b]”Keen eyes Ms. Porter. and hands the spyglass back to Joan. She moves to the ship’s bell ringing it vigorously, shouting ”All hands beat to quarters.” The cry is taken up by Mr. Winters who for some reason was standing on deck.
You all rush to your stations on the main deck and await orders from the Captain, who issues them thusly:
”We have spotted a ship on the horizon and due to recent developments have decided to treat it as hostile. We will attempt to run from her, however now is the time to equip weapons and armour if you have it, do so by watch. Mr Gleambright, see if you can knock up some defensive screens. Mr Winter, take a work party and make the ballistae ready, Ms. Avalon, I want you to take the helm. Mr Stokes, would you see if you can provide us with some magical assistance please? Everyone, double time please, this is not a drill.” You now need to go and don your armour, weapons etc. Let me know if you are helping each other, or just trying to do it yourself as quickly as possible. The initial part of this phase, we will run in an abstract way, so I don’t need initiative from you yet. When you return, let me know which of the crew members you are going to assist: Sailing faster, preparing defences, preparing weapons, or something you might think of. If you wish to cast spells, know it could be hours before combat is fully joined, if it is at all, as you may get away
Mirandir and Nayli jump into action hauling ropes and raising the main sail, with assistance from Errol and another sailor the sheet is let out in good order. Seeing this Morvan lends a hand on the fore sail with a group of other sailors. With her sails now full the Lady Sue turns her back to the wind and is propelled almost immediately with a burst of speed.
“Excellent work ladies and gentlemen.” Captain Loophook says. ”Get some of the crew down for a couple of hours rotate them regularly. Ms Avalon the bridge is yours.” And with that she makes her way down the stairs and into her cabin. Just before she enters the room she calls out ”Miss Porter. Attend to me if you would be so kind.
Joan rushes to the captain’s aid glad at least to be out of the driving rain for now. ”Please hang up my coat and fetch my charts and navigation instruments from where you packed them away.”
Again Joan obliges without saying a word, while the half orc changes into a fresh set of clothes. Now Changes Captain Loophook moves over to the desk and looks at the course she had plotted. Joan instinctively moves away towards the pile of wet garments when the captain stops her. ”Joan. Well done with the rope. Quick thought turned to accurate deed and I truly appreciate that in my crew.” She sighs ”Know that I will take little pleasure in disciplining Mr Salt but it must be done, you understand of course.” She looks Joan deep in the eyes and the usual hardness is absent.
”One more thing do you know anything of charts? I could use a hand plotting our forward course.“
Joan: Please make a DC 15 Knowledge Geography Check.
If you pass.:
The captain confers to you that the seas around the southern edge of the Uncharted Isles are perilous and poorly mapped so a little detective work will be required to choose the best course. You spend hours poring through charts and books discussing ideas and theorising currents and weather patterns. Please make a Diplomacy check (DC 13/18/23/28)
If you fail.:
The captain thanks you for your effort but asks if you would send for Mr Stokes. You return to your usual duties. You fall back into the crews watch pattern. you will need a perception check (DC10) to hear what is being discussed.
Brayan now recovered is truly grateful to all of you, but especially to Salty. ”You saved my life I will never forget this. Never.” when you suggest again that he should learn to swim he seems to agree but stipulates that he will learn when the sea is calm.
The ship drives hard through the heavy weather but the immediate danger is over it seems. The Storm continues for another 2 full days in this fashion. You and the rest of the crew are sent in groups of 4 to rest for 2 hours at a time. In this way you remain tired but functional. After spending a total of three and a half days in the storm with little to no sleep, the wind finally begins to die down by around 8 o’clock. The wind remains strong but the waves and rain have subsided. The crew are dismissed back to their watches.
When on deck, you can see the storm cloud in the distance, and feel the wind on your faces beginning to pick up. The sails start to flap at the edges with the increasing wind power.
The Captain is standing by the helm barking out orders. She says "Mr Greigor and Mr Waverider, prepare to reef the mains'il. Ms. Belequa, assist Mr Gleambright and his team with clearing down the decks and make safe any loose items. Prepare to batten down the hatches! Mr Oakes, rig the jack lines and make sure everyone on deck has clipped on! Mr Salt, follow Mr Winters and make sure all cooking equipment is stowed away. Ms Caledor, take 4 crew and meet Mr Stokes down in the cargo hold. I need the cargo made secure. Tie those knots tight! Ms Porter, my cabin is secure, however please ensure that the crew quarters are made ready!
You all set about your tasks with haste. The Officers continue to issue orders. Errol comes to you all in turnm with a length of rope and a coiled metal hook on the end. He says:"Tie this round your waist and make sure you clip on the reef lines at all times when on deck.
Whilst undertaking your tasks, the first heavy droplets of rain start to fall, making the deck a bit slippery underfoot.
In the distance, you are alarmed as a fork of lightening shoots out of the sky, hitting the sea and a peal of thunder accompanies the now inky black, heavy rolling waves.
You all finish your jobs, finding time to assist others where needed. Ms Avalon takes the helm and on the Captain's command begins to take the ship in a S=shaped course, attempting to ride the groove of the waves. The look of sheer grim determination as this fairly slight elf wrestles with the ship makes you develop a new found respect for her.
All of a sudden, disaster strikes!
randomised hit:
1d6 ⇒ 2
One of the sheets attached to the head sail comes loose at the sail end due to a slipped knot. The line flicks back into the boat with a twang. It hits Joan across the back causing her 1d6 ⇒ 3 points of non lethal damage and forcing her to make an acrobatics check Reflex save, or fall prone to the deck.
The sudden loss of tension on the sail causes the aft end of the sail to be picked up at the mercy of the wind. In turn, despite her formidable sailing prowess, Ms. Avalon loses control of steering momentarily, and the Lady Sue takes a large wave full abeam on the port side.
Brayan is knocked over board into the swirl before he had a chance to hook on to the reef line.
Captain Loophook shouts to the crew: "Besmara's teeth! Heave-to and get a line out to him.No-one goes overboard and for all the Gods, secure that sail!
You hear Errol shouting from the lower deck "Brayan can't swim!
The Captain retorts Then he will drown, won't he, Mr Oaks? No-one goes overboard. I'm not losing anymore souls!"
Someone trained in it must pass a profession sailor check to secure the sail back to a seaworthy position. Also, Brayan is in the water and will die unless you disobey a direct order from the Captain. I need your character emotions and what their planned actions are. Roll initiative to see who acts first in the event it becomes necessary. Feel free to discuss in discussion thread.
Male Human Salesman/5 Chef/3 Toy Shop Bod/2 (Supervisor)
Roll for Morven:
Profession Sailor1d20 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16
@ Morven and Mirandir
You are not used to the fully batoned sails and with the wind picking up, you struggle to adjust them in time, causing the ship to lurch from side to side.
Mirandir manages to keep a steady hand on the helm to maintain the course, however the ship rocks uncomfortably.
@Salty
The crew find your meal wholly unpalatable. Most laugh it off, saying things like... I see why they call you Salty , or Did you make this with sea water?
Your earlier efforts with making friends mean they are not too upset but it is noted that most go to work hungry, leaving food on their plates.
@Nayli
Bryan says "The esteemed gnome? Dunno what you mean? He always seems a fairly stand up chap to me. Never afraid to get his hands dirty. I don't think he is hiding anything. Not like the Master of Sail. Rumor is that her and the Captain like a bit too much of each other, if you get my drift? Like to see a bit more of each other than is professionally required. With that, he gives Nayli a friendly nudge and says It's a good job we don't need to dot his quickly. I'm not denying the job you done is good, but I've done 4 planks in the time you done two.
@Elenia
You notice 2 duplicate entries in the log books and correct this. Everything else appears to be above board. You are studying Mr Stokes' office. most of the books in his bookshelf appear to be navigational charts for other regions. Some history books are amongst the shelves as well as the spell book that you discern is definitely a Wizard's spell book. During your shift, Mr Stokes comes in, double checks your figures and asks a couple of questions about stock which you answer promptly, nods in approval and goes to the top deck. As he leaves, he says "I've thought about what you said and if you are looking for some extra knowledge, come and see me when you are not on shift and I may be able to teach you some things. However, come with an open mind. don't presume that you will teach me something I have dedicated most of my life to."
@Joan
You do an adequate job of cleaning the Captain's cabin. Towards the end of the shift, the Captain wakes. She asks you to fetch her her uniform, which you do promptly. She then requests you make up her bed and tidy her desk ready for the next day's sailing.
For DM use:
Salty and Morven 1
@All
Your shifts come to an end. The wind is still picking up as you make your way down below decks. The boat begins to rock but not uncomfortably as yet. You eat your evening meal and fill out the rest of the evening talking amongst yourselves and the crew. You all tidy your bunk areas. You go to bed, marking ready for a good sleep, prepared to get up at 12.30am for the next watch.
Sometime whilst you sleep, you are awoken suddenly by the sounds of the ahip's bell ringing and Errol and Brayan shaking you awake. They say that Storm's on the horizon, Cap'n needs all hands on deck.
Hi guys just a quick bit of housekeeping. As we continue it occurs to me I need to explain some key details about the ship. so here they are:
She looks like this, Top down view (sorry for it being so primitive)
She has 32 crew and 5 officers, including yourselves. They break down like this:
Captain Loophook.
1 Ships porter (Joan)
Ms Avalon; Master of Sail
15 Sailors (Including Morvan, Mirandir and Errol)
Mr Stokes, Quartermaster
1 Ships Clerk (Elenia)
Mr Gleambright, Boatswain
4 Carpenters (one is on your watch an elderly dwarf called Brayan he is constantly anxious because he can’t swim.)
Mr Winters, Ships cook and Midshipman
1 Cooks mate (Salty)
10 Able sea persons (Including Nayil)
The ship has 4 masts each with Fully Battened sails (no climbing rigging.)
Here is a cross section of the ship:
1. Captain’s Cabin.
2. Officers cabins.
3. Larder.
4. Galley.
5. Crew quarters.
6. Workshop and boat store (Where the Jolly Boats are stored).
7. Boat supplies (spare rope, canvas etc.).
8. Tiller room.
9. Cargo hold – The hold is massive when empty it has movable mezzanine floors that are suspended on ropes and secured by wooden pegs to the interior wall of the ship.
10. Quartermasters’ office.
11. Ballast
The Vertical lines indicate the masts of the ship.
Rule clarifications:
Being an Able Seaman means you can turn your hand to any job on the ship but you do it slower than someone who has specialised if you wish to do the job as fast as some who has specialised the DC become harder(Min +5). I hope this is acceptable.
I will normally give you the bare minimum of information. If you want any further info with regards to a situation just ask. If you think you need a roll just roll. In the event that it was not necessary I will just ignore the result. I will share easily noticed stuff in a spoiler, However I may PM you the results if personal. Be aware I might also roll some checks for you in secret.
As I mentioned this is the first PBP I have DM'd so it will be an evolving process to begin with, thanks for bearing with me. I hope you are enjoying the narrative aspect of the campaign.
Any further questions? Any Suggestions?
Cheers all
Don't look:
Errol's plan to lure the party into a false sense of security seems to be going well. No one in pathfinder is that friendly. Mwhahahahaha!
Errol smiles at salty "Aye Lucky indeed, we've drawn first watch."
The Crew is split into 4 and each of these groups rotates on a 7 watch pattern. Please see Wiki
"We watch for pirates!" Errol pauses "Na. There's no pirates. Clouds and rogue waves is about all we need to look out for. As for Preaching I'm sure you'll find plenty of open ears, people of faith are always popular at sea."
Finally turning to Joan. "Plenty of time for games. We eat together, sleep together, share the blame and revel in the rewards. How was the captain by the way?"
The ship casts off from the dock to a cheer from assembled people on the dockside the sails unfurl and a stiff late afternoon breeze takes them and moves the boat easily away from the harbor and breakwater. with the fair wind the ship sails smoothly running parallel to the coastline. With everyone still on the deck an old voice cracks out the opening words to a song. "When I was a little lad or so my mammy told me, to me."
the rest of the crew immediately answer: "Way haul away, we'll haul away Joe"
so the voice continues "That if I did kiss a troll, my lips would all grow mouldy,"
again the Whole crew sing: "Way haul away, we'll haul away Joe.
Way, haul away, we'll haul away together
Way, haul away, we'll haul away, Joe!
Way haul away, we’re bound for better weather
Way, haul away, we'll haul away, Joe!"
This continues with a new crew member adding a new verse before the chorus each time.
"For once I met an Taldor lass, she was fat and lazy,
Way haul away, we'll haul away Joe
I have known a Kyonin Elf, she damn near drove me crazy,
Way haul away, we'll haul away Joe
Way, haul away, we'll haul away together
Way, haul away, we'll haul away, Joe!
Way haul away, we’re bound for better weather
Way, haul away, we'll haul away, Joe!
Cruel Abby was the Queen of Galt before the revolution,
Way haul away, we'll haul away Joe
And then she got her head cut off, it spoiled her constitution,
Way haul away, we'll haul away Joe
Chorus
I knew of a Honourable Gnome, he was struck with Bleaching,
Way haul away, we'll haul away Joe
And now you cannot trust the lad, for your purse he’s reaching.
Way haul away, we'll haul away Joe
Chorus
Your turn will come around eventually do you sing or not? bonus XP if you come up with a verse. Song sounds like this:
To those loading cargo.
The cargo comes up to the deck at a pace, even the experiences sea farers among you find difficult to keep up with. Elenia quickly realises that she cannot hope to match the physicality of the crew and sets about making a log of the stock as it is received. After a time Mr Stokes returns and nods with approval at the young half-elves actions. On the dock pallets of timber, ore and cloth are loaded by crane into the awaiting hold. After the raw materials comes barrel after barrel each sealed with a stamp you notice salted fish, tar, and wax among the many loads. Just when you think the hold is filled to capacity heavy wagons are hauled up to the deck each filled with what looks like mining equipment. Scaffolds, drills and iron frames are brought aboard with some clever storage and a little grunt they all go into the hold snugly. Through the whole loading the Gnome; Mr Gleambright can be found manoeuvring pallets and issuing orders. Finally 6 large ballistae and ammunition are lowered to on to the ship’s deck, unlike the rest of the cargo though these are left on the open deck. When the job is done Morvan, Mirandir and Nayli stand sweaty and tired among the rest of the crew on the deck.
Salty
Toby ignores your comment and takes the boards from you stacking them away neatly. The two of you make small talk about nothing in particular until the first of the supplies start to arrive. Barrels and crates are rolled or carried into the small kitchen, from where you and Toby move them into pantry set back from the main cooking space. Once you finish you make your way up to the main deck to join the rest of the crew. Toby goes up to join Ms Avalon, Mr Gleambright and Mr stokes. Salty you find yourself by luck or design next to Elenia, Morvan, Mirandir and Nayli.
Joan
”Are you an assassin Miss Porter, here to kill me?” before you can answer Captain Loophook continues ”No? Then why do you think it appropriate to come before me armed? Not a good first impression. If I wasn’t so busy I would dismiss you from my ship after a good flogging.” Her eyes gleam and she runs her tongue over her teeth. ”Go back to the crew quarters and change. the captain points to the back of her door where a set of smart clothes hang. Captain Loophook then turns her attention back to the charts in front of her. ”Please ask Ms Avalon to see me on your way down thank you.”Going to assume you follow these instructions for times sake.
Joan returns now wearing a very smart looking white lace shirt complete with ruff, tight cream pleated breeches and dark blue waistcoat. After Knocking and entering the captain says ”Much better Miss Porter. Please pour myself and Ms Avalon a cup of tea.” as you do this the two women continue to talk. ”You know my feelings Captain I would rather lose 4 days and take the safer route” Ms Avalon states.
”But you could do it Eva? The captain asks. “And who is to say it is safer The Sea Nymph II and The Golden Stag have disappeared recently whist taking the same route you suggest.”
”Yes of course I can do it. If anything it is easier given fair weather.” The half-elf’s brow furrows ”If we get a storm though...”
”Lets pray for fair weather then. You had better get back out on deck.” The captain stands.
Ms Avalon stands gives a sharp salute and says ”Aye M’am.” and with that she leaves the cabin.
Sense motive DC:15/20/25:
I will PM you this info if you make the check.
The rest of Joan’s time is taken unloading and folding the captain’s clothes and personal effects.After a time there is a sharp knock on the door and the Gnome, Mr Gleambright stands in the doorway. ”We are ready for you M’am” is all he says.
”Very Good. Miss Porter please rejoin the rest of the crew.”
On the deck Joan makes her way to join the other 5 new recruits.
A sharp whistle sounds and Ms Avalon's Loud clear voice states. "CAPTAIN ON DECK!"
The crew forms rows and stands to attention as the Captain speaks.
"Good evening Ladies and Gentlemen. I wish to congratulate you on the speed at which you loaded the cargo. We are in for a long voyage 12 weeks in total. You will be paid for 12 weeks regardless how long it takes, further more you will receive double pay for every day early we are. Those of you who have sailed under me before will know me to be harsh but fair. In line with this you have all worked exceptionally today and so will receive a double ration of Gin with supper tonight." a small cheer goes up from the assembled crew. "Ms Avalon. Get us under way we sail with the evening tide."
Male Human Salesman/5 Chef/3 Toy Shop Bod/2 (Supervisor)
Hi all just to reiterate please make all changes to character sheets that you have stated previously before Monday.
I appreciate that so far it has been quite heavy on the story building and lighter on the RP but we are getting to the RP soon. As soon as you set sail, you will be somewhat freer to do as you wish.... within reason.
Have a Happy Easter weekend if you celebrate it or a good weekend otherwise. Will post tomorrow.
Housekeeping: Yes please, could you all try to keep what you have on your person updated. At this point it isn't so important if you aren't under any pressure we can assume you drop any excess to climb rigging or swim etc. but in combat it will be important. Can we please finalise our character sheets: extra gear, languages etc. I won't accept any further changes after Monday so get it done!
At the question about the Captain's triggers Errol laughs "As I said I try to keep my head down. Standard stuff I guess: insubordination, slacking or if the other officers refer you." Errol rubs his shoulder.
"M'am or Captain Loophook" Errol answers Joan's final question.
Morvan & Mirandir:
You are about to ask for Ms. Avalon before you spy an imposing figure standing on the top deck in front of the wheel. You make your way up the stairs and stand before a tall thin half-elf woman with short cropped brown hair held in a black cotton ribbon. Ms. Avalon continues to stare at the deck. "Good Morning. Welcome aboard, I expect nothing from you other than hard work and obedience. If you give me these things I will reward you well. Understood? Please tie off the the larboard lines and then make your way back down to the main deck - we are about to load the cargo."
Salty:
As you make your way to the mess you can hear the sounds of clanking pots and pans and loud shouting in an language you don't understand. You move into the tight kitchen to find a halfling standing on a box and hanging kitchen equipment from the ceiling. "Hello there, are you my assistant? Tobias Winter is the name but you can call me Toby. I hope you can cook, last girl they sent me was useless. Well... not totally useless." Toby chuckles and gives Salty a knowing wink. "Right! Time and tide waits for no man. Pass me those chopping boards. We will need to get this done quickly, then we will need to meet up with the quartermaster and check our supplies in. Old Stokes hasn't made a mistake yet but I still check every time."
Joan:
Joan knocks and a gruff voice from the other side says "Enter" Joan steps into the cabin and is greeted by the sight of Captain Loophook standing behind a desk pouring over manifests and charts. The cabin is sparsely decorated. A large window dominates the rear wall. In the centre of the room is a large table. On the left wall is a rack of weapons. None appear to be ornamental but all of them are supremely well crafted. Captain Loophook is a half-orc and even by half-orc standards, she is ugly. Her tusks have been filed down from a size that once must have been massive, with her skin being almost pitch black. Her hair is jet black "What can I do for you Miss?.." The captain stands to her full height, an imposing sight.
Elenia & Nayli:
The deck is full of sailors all milling around waiting for the cargo to arrive. Before the two new arrivals get a chance to chat the gnome Mr Gleambright stands, clears his throat and in a loud clear voice hes says "Ladies and gentlemen we will be shortly be receiving the cargo. I don't have to remind you of the importance of careful handling. Its not for you I worry, after all there are 10 sweaty louse ridden mongrels on the dock waiting to take your place. We get paid a lot for transporting this stuff and breakages come out of my bonus."The joke earns a small ripple of laughter from the throng. As if on cue the first of a string of wagons roll out of a side street and stop before the ship on the dockside. "Let's get to it shall we?" A cheer goes up from the sailors as they rush to work.
The 4 of you on deck, please note you are now loading cargo. PLease describe what you are doing, who you speak to etc.
@Joan - you have a conversation with the Captain to conclude.
@Salty - I'm sure Toby wants to have a conversation with you - he seems very chatty and friendly at the minute.
Having been unable to join the crew of the Lady Sue Thomas decided to try his luck with the newly arrived ship. whether he managed to get on board is another story for a different time.
To each of you in turn and as if reading from a script the man says:
”Ok. By accepting this agreement you understand that you are employed by the Western Trade Collation hereby referred to as the employer and agree to abide by the command structure and officers of the employer. You are under the direct authority of Captain Demelza Loophook and her officers. For work completed you will receive 15 silver pieces per day plus bonuses for perceived good work to be paid upon successful completion of the voyage. In the event of your demise you forfeit your share and any bonuses accrued back to the employer. The employer will provide you with food and equipment to enable you to fulfil your tasks whist on board we will also provide you with 2 spare changes of clothing these will be returned in a good state or their cost will be deducted from your final pay as will the cost of any unreasonable damage to tools or equipment.” He takes a breath.
“Is that understood? Sign here.” He spins the book in front of him and points at a box in the ledger.
Assuming you all sign.
“Right. My name is Mr Stokes you will refer to me as Mr Stokes and Mr Stokes only. Make your way onto the ship.” he points to the boxy ship. “Stow your gear.”he gestures in a wide circle around you. “you will not require your weapons and armour at this time. Then please report to:
Morvan:
Ms Avalon on the sailing deck.”
Elenia:
Myself in the cargo hold once I have finished here. Until then go and see if Mr Gleambright needs any help on the main deck.”
Joan:
Captain Loophook in her cabin.”
Salty:
Mr Winter in the mess.”
Mirandir:
Ms Avalon on the sailing deck.”
Nayli:
Mr Gleambright on the Main deck.”
As you step onto the ship you hear a familiar voice saying “Do you know who I am? The captain is expecting me.” You turn just in time to see two burly sailors carrying Thomas away from the desk he finally pleads ”You don’t understand I need to leave here.” Now several feet away from the desk Thomas shakes free of the sailors and runs towards the large Square rigged ship the last thing you hear from him as he accosts a crew member on the gang plank is ”It’s about time I was expecting you to dock 3 days ago...”
Once on board the ship you get your first glimpse of the ‘Lady Sue’. Your fellow crew mill around waiting for the cargo to be loaded from the dock. They offer you smiles and friendly greetings as you quickly make your way down into the crew quarters. The space is cramped with hammocks lining the room. From the ceiling hang a collection of waterproof bags tied together in a bunch. Some are full whereas some only contain a few items. As you stand around in the dark a familiar voice greets you...
The Quartermaster is average height, has dark hair with a reddish hue, he appears to be immaculately presented. Nails cut, hair combed, clean face and hands. the desk on further inspection is not a desk but merely a table top placed between 2 storage crates. on the desk is 2 pens and an inkwell these are of a good quality but not ornate and have seen fairly extensive use. on the table also has a glass full of water again its nicely made but practical and a pewter jug which has the initials A.S engraved into it. Other than that most of the desk is taken up with a huge ledger in which he is recording the outcomes of all his interviews. He dose't appear to be armed.
Profession (porter):
In your past experience the Quartermaster has been responsible for the logging and distribution of the ships supplies and also is in charge of the ships cargo. His rank is about 3rd in command, behind captain and Master of sail(1st Mate) but fractionally ahead of the boatswain (although he wouldn't order the boatswain around) his duties also extend to the payment of the ships crew.
The duties of a porter vary wildly from ship to ship you are essentially a servant to the officers on the ship.
Sense motive:
The man appears to be board and tired. however you are sure that he is taking his task seriously and doing his job to the best of his abilities. you are confident that he is genuine.
Just like I asked you to do, I give all my NPC's 3 words to describe their characters. Now I wont tell you these yet because you've only just met the guy. I hope you will be able to guess after a time and a couple more rolls. If you disagree with me when and if you find these out then I guess I failed.
It's diplomacy rather than charisma but same difference. Also I'm not sure what you are trying to bluff however...
The man steeples his fingers and exhales slowly "Ships Porter eh? Well I won't refuse a volunteer as qualified as yourself for that role, I will say however that it is perhaps the toughest position available. The captain is a known perfectionist and had a remarkably short temper."
The line moves painfully slowly as you chat, behind you the queue still grows and you thank your good fortune for getting here early. Journey’s Rest begins to wake as time goes on, the taverns open their cellars and casks of ale are rolled down the street and delivered through the open portals in the floor. A huge four mast square rigger is towed through the breakwater and moored expertly by the local dock hands. Shortly after, the local floozies turn out in force to greet the crew, all races and genders appear to be catered for and their arrival is greeted with shouts and catcalls from the deck of the ship. All the while the ferryman rows from one side of the harbour to the other. In time Errol and the other members of the shore party return. Errol and another man carry a huge roll of sail cloth. Even the gnome Mr Gleambright drags a sledge laden with rope. They stop short of a large boxy ship riding high against the dock a few feet away from you and the rest of the line. (Visual Representation.) The shore party takes their supplies aboard and disappear from view. More time passes and some of the line is pointed towards the ship but many more are turned away heading to the nearest tavern for a pint of solace. After what seems like hours, the sun now firmly fixed in the sky and the morning’s chill beginning to burn off, your small group stands before the desk.
Now you have a clear view, you can see the smartly dressed man is a human dressed in a tight pressed dark blue uniform with white lace detailing on his cuffs and lapels as you approach he writes in a huge book, takes a sip of water from a plain glass and without looking up he calls in a bored sounding voice ”Next!” he then looks up and adds “One at a time please.”
Please decide which order you go in and answer the following questions.
@Noonan I'm very sorry to hear that. It would be naive of me to say, whilst I have been only skimming the RP that it hasn't had an effect on my choice.
I apologise if this had made you feel uncomfortable. If and when I run further PBP, I don't think I will allow RP in the recruitment thread.
I really liked the concept of Noonan, so it is with regret I accept your withdrawal and hope you find a place in a PBP elsewhere.
@Everyone. I will announce later today when I am back from work. (Aiming for 6pm GMT) All your sheets look fine from a cursory glance but if there is anything you may have missed please check one last time as I will check them again more thoroughly before making my final decision on the 6.
Stefan Bar-Noble - Bard. - 105GPSheet OK Noonan - Barbarian (Invulnerable Rager). - 105GP Sheet Ok Mirandir Waverider - Oracle (Waves). - 105GP Sheet OK Barin Invectus - Sorcerer(Empyreal, Tattoed Sorcerer). - 70GP Sheet OK Pippne "Pip" Barefoot - Ranger (Infiltrator, Skirmisher). - 175GP Sheet OK "Salty" Valaravans - Alchemist (beastmorph, vivisectionist). - 105GP Sheet OK Derrick Varlor - Bard (Sea Singer). - 175GP Sheet OK Caolan Scarletsilver - gunslinger (Bolt Ace). - 175GP No Mundane Gear? Nayli Belequa - Warpreist. - 175GP Sheet OK Joan Porter - Ranger (Trapper, Freebooter). - 175GP Need to pick a second language. otherwise OK Steven Lamerin - Hunter. - 140GP Sheet OK Blask – (Needs Crunch).
Elenia Caledor - Wizard. - 70GP Sheet OK Morven Greigor -Skald (Dragon Skald, Totemic Skald). - 105GP Sheet OK Qiun "Shark" Kosen - Summoner. (Synthesist, Blood God Disciple). - 70GP Fluff Needed & sheet needs completing. Concept is fine though. Thomas Silverspoon - Summoner. - 70GP last decisions need to be made on sheet but at the second seems fine. Also I'm not going to say which base form I think is best, just use your best judgement (Both will work fine.)
Also: (Thanks Joan)
Characters by desired job:
• Able seaman/woman – Jack/Jill of all trades able to turn their hand to most jobs aboard ship.
Nayli Belequa - Warpriest
Derrick Varlor - Bard (Sea Singer)
Noonan - Barbarian (Invulnerable Rager)
• Carpenter – Responsible for the repair/maintenance of the ship.
Pippne "Pip" Barefoot - Ranger (Infiltrator, Skirmisher)
Qiun "Shark" Kosen - summoner (Synthesist, Blood God Disciple)
• Clerk – responsible for the counting/ logging of supplies and cargo.
Elenia Caledor - Wizard
Thomas Silverspoon - Summoner
@Joan: Questions relating to the desk guy will be answered shortly.
You are in a large harbour town called Journey's Rest. The town itself is almost purely given over to maritime commerce. Taverns, houses and shops are all positioned as closely as possible to the waterfront. The quay you stand on is cobbled and stone lined. The town is clearly affluent. Whilst in a human province the town is quite cosmopolitan so no one looks out of place not even the half-orcs.
For those wishing to RP in the recruitment thread (purely optional):
...The crowd has formed into a rough queue before a desk where a smartly turned out man sits and questions potential applicants one by one. The mood is generally jovial. Loose groups have formed in some places along the line with their occupants joking and telling stories. You flinch reflexively as a hand is placed on your shoulder.
“Ahoy Shipmate fancy a drink? Its bloody cold out here.” He holds a waterskin out in your direction although you are confident that its contents are not water. ”Name’s Errol, by the way if you make crew come and see me for a game of dice ok?” You regard the cheery man; Errol appears to be a dark skinned human wearing a stripy shirt with torn sleeves. He has a myriad of tattoos, cut off trousers and lose fitting boots with no laces in them. A voice interrupts you from across the quay...
”Come on Mr Oaks leave the line alone you don’t know where it’s been.” The voice belongs to a gnome dressed in a similar smart fashion to the man at the desk, with him are two scruffy looking humans.
”Right you are Mr Gleambright, Right you are”. and with that Errol gives you a wink and runs along to join the shore party.
Now you stand facing several other bewildered hopefuls...
converse with each other but keep rolls to an absolute minimum please.
Stefan - I am using average wealth for you this would be 105 I'm sorry I didn't make it clear enough in the rules apologies for the inconvenience.
Noonan - I like the concept, however I can't take you as neutral good is this essential to your character? As stated the prerequisite alignments are CN/N/LN.
Caolan - You split the scores in the stat lines as you wish for each attribute then you add any race bonuses/penalties to these scores (for example: ELF 10(-2=8)STR/ 17(+2=19)DEX/ 8CON/ 12(+2=14)INT/ 14WIS/ 12CHA etc. also Bolt Ace is fine.
One final note: If it were me, I wouldn't make Rocket and Groot take from that what you will.
Keep up the good work and once again have a super day.
@Mowque A little of both. I will use all the Golarion lore but not the geography so all the gods and political structures are the same however the provinces actual location are a little bit more abstract. For ease assume you are travelling from somewhere on the west coast of the Inner sea region to Arcadia. However Azlant is not in the way (it still exists but isn’t there). What is there is a similar group of archipelago type islands shrouded in myth and legend but I don’t want to give too much away.
I am Recruiting for a new campaign with a nautical theme. You will be playing part of the crew of a merchant ship sailing for the colonies in the untamed wilderness of a far away continent. The voyage is long and dangerous, are you willing to take the job?
Fluff to get you in the mood:
The docks of in early morning bustled with activity the fishing boats unloaded their catch onto the dock, their captains arguing prices with the local merchants. In the harbour the ferryman slowly rowed across the calm water transporting his passengers to the other side of the dock. The town watch stood at their posts still wrapped up against the fresh sea breeze in their greatcoats. The sun had barely broken over the eastern breakwater and your breath is still visible in the crisp spring air. As you finger the piece of rough paper you are surprised at how many people have turned out to apply for the voyage. You look down once again at the note it reads:
”Able bodied persons required to crew for merchant vessel the ‘Lady Sue’. 12 week Voyage to the port city of St Valeros . Pay 15 SP per day, plus bonus for hard work. Apply at the docks on the morning of Oathday26th Pharast.”
The crowd has formed into a rough queue before a desk where a smartly turned out man sits and questions potential applicants one by one. The mood is generally jovial loose groups have formed in some places along the line and their occupants joking and telling stories.
1 free profession rank (This will be considered a class skill) choose from:
• Able seaman/woman – Jack/Jill of all trades able to turn their hand to most jobs aboard ship.
• Carpenter – Responsible for the repair/maintenance of the ship.
• Clerk – responsible for the counting/ logging of supplies and cargo.
• Cook – prepares and distributes food.
• Porter – Services the needs of the ships officers.
• Sailor- responsible for the sailing of the ship.
2 traits.
1 Character flaw Chose from:
• Angry – you anger quickly causing you to become violent at little provocation.
• Coward – you will run, hide or generally try to avoid confrontation.
• Drunk – you never turn down a drink or know when to stop.
• Gambler – you never refuse a chance to bet and will continue to do so until you run out of funds or are stopped by someone else.
• Lazy –you are the last to get to work over sleep and generally do the bare minimum.
• Liar – you are a compulsive liar boasting exaggerating and passing the blame.
• Pessimist – you always see the worst in a situation and express this to all others.
• Prideful – you will not accept any affront to your character or work this will cause you to become argumentative or maybe violent.
• Problem with authority – you hate to take orders arguing with superiors questioning their motives attempting to pass responsibility or being flat out insubordinate.
• Rude – you insult and belittle you peers, have little to no respect for others.
• Thief – you are compelled to steal so that to have a little more than your fellows.
• Two faced – you talk about others behind their back often questioning their character or motives.
These provide no statistical penalty but I expect you to play your character with these flaws in mind. If I perceive you to not be playing the flaw correctly will in the first case receive a warning and then a temporary penalty. (I.e. -1 to saves, skill rolls, attack and damage.) Note. Overdoing it will result in the same consequences.
No guns.
Official Paizo books only.
Core and APG spells only.
Posing requirements will be based around you character however in combat I expect a minimum of 1 post per day.
The campaign will use Golarion lore but not geography (hope this makes sense).
Character info I would like:
Name:
Age:
General Appearance:
Bio:
Reason to go to sea:
3 words to describe you character:
About me:
I am an experienced tabletop player and DM and have been in several PBP however this will be the first I have run. I tend to prefer story driven campaigns and characters than pure dungeon crawling. I have always wanted to run a sea based campaign and have many ideas for the future however initially the story will be more focused to be more like a module.
what you need Marcus is Xull-Daer's masterwork rock of awesome. when my old sorc (3.5) ran out of spells he would just charge in and hit things with a rock. it was surprisingly effective!
Quite so. forgive my impatiance for I am home alone tonight, my significant other is away with her parents and I dare not leave the house lest it be burnt down by crazed adolesents. It comes of having a non-elected supreem ruler.
