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This campaign journal contains the material created by the GM and his players for the Savage Tide Adventure Path. The League called off the campaign once we were done with the Battle of Farshore. This was due to GM burnout and some (not all) of the players becoming disinterested in the adventure path itself.
The Savage Tide was our first attempt at an adventure path and we have learned a lot of lessons from our experiences playing. Our journal was more randomly created than for our Curse of the Crimson Throne adventure path. Also, our group created a Yahoo group to add the potential for roleplaying between characters. We now have our own forum and campaign wiki for the Curse of the Crimson Throne.
The Heroes of Farshore were as follows:
All-Night Josh - CN Male Human Fighter.
Danifae - LN (later CG) Female Drow Cleric of Wee Jas (later Eilistraee)/Wizard.
Gilgeam Galanodel - CG Male Elf Cleric of Corellon Larethian.
Ishmael Silverpearl - NG Male Half-Elf Ranger.
Mitch Deparle - CN Male Human Rogue.
Norian - LG Male Human Fighter.
Strom Setterstorm - CN Male Human Barbarian.
Tolman - N Male Halfling Wizard (Evoker).
Zacote - N Male Human Druid.
A lot of our Yahoo journal was based around house rules, loot and other topics that probably wouldn't be that interesting here. Please note, the following is randomly posted (I am missing a lot of e-mails) and we have improved our journal style for later campaigns.
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Introduction: Mitch
A human male youth of less than twenty summers is introduced to the company. He is of average height, with a mop of blond hair. His face is wan, like all those who have fallen on hard times, but his grey eyes shine fiercely and he holds his chin up. Perhaps once he was an attractive youth, but the streets have driven than from him and turned him into a gaunt young 'starvling'. He wears faded dark cloth pants, and a worn dirty white shirt - both have holes and tears. His feet are bare and carry bloody sores. His clothes might once have been fine quality garments, but are now little better than rags. In a quiet and cautious voice he speaks his name - 'Mitch'.
With the youth comes a spider-monkey with a creamy coat and black-ringed eyes. The normal energy associated with these creatures has long since passed. Malnutrition has taken its toll on the runaway as it has on his pet.
Over the weeks that pass, Mitch loses his desperate appearance. He sleeps long hours and eats heartily until his color and vigor is restored. The lad begins to show a relentless energy, a desire for action. One day, the rest of company finds him hanging upside-down from a tall mast, as happy as can be, with his monkey, Pepper, at his side. The two often race each other as they clamber and climb all over the ship and the dockyards.
Mitch's curiosity is as boundless as his energy, and soon the Halfling finds himself giving in to the youth's demands to investigate the company's charts. Mitch quickly displays that he knows far more of nautical techniques than most runaways, although his methodical approach belies his carefree attitude.
Over the six months Mitch shows he knows the basics of sword fencing. He is far from expert, but has obviously had lessons in the past. One evening a brawl erupts between several members of the company and some drunks. Mitch is embroiled and soon displays a great deal of skill at unarmed combat, using a combination of punches and kicks that overwhelm the drunken brawlers. When one of the attacks pulls out a knife, Mitch responds by using weapon made of chain and wood to disarm his opponent, before pummeling the larger attack unconscious.
At the end of six months Mitch has proven himself a valuable member of the company. He can sail, navigate and fight. He is something of a daredevil and is always eager for excitement. The marks of his time on the streets can still be seen for he never speaks of his past and is always wary of ... something.
Mitch dresses simply, in loose pants, a loose shirt, and a scarf on his head. His monkey, Pepper, is his constant companion. Mitch does not usually carry a weapon openly, but is known to conceal a knife in his belt.
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Introduction: Zacote
[Six months ago]
When Jasper Driftwood enters the small common room above the boathouse he is accompanied by a dark-skinned youth. He is short and wiry, standing just over 5 feet. His dead straight jet-black hair is cut roughly, just above the shoulder, and his dark eyes dart back like a wild animal. He has the rounded face, high cheekbones and high- bridge nose of the Olmec natives you have seen working the plantations outside the city, though his skin is not as dark as most of them, more a pale brown shade. He is wearing a short skirt of what was once white cotton, now stained and torn, and across his shoulders is a short cape-like covering. His feet are bare. A number of tattoos cover the youth's upper body, including a stylized image of what you take to be a jaguar or other jungle cat across the left of his chest.
In his right hand the youth carries a nasty looking weapon, like a long club or paddle of ironwood, set with triangles of black obsidian along each edge. At his left stands an even more lethal-looking weapon. A spotted jungle cat, over four feet long. The predator looks uneasily at the people gathered around the room.
Jasper nods to the youth and in halting common-tongue he addressees the people already present in the boathouse. "My name is Zacote, last of the Mecatl". He gestures to the hunting cat beside him "This is Mezatli". After a few moments he thinks about his words, before adding "Be careful, she bites". As if to emphasis his words, the cat growls uneasily and begins pacing back and forth in front Zacote.
[Now]
In the past six months Zacote has taken readily to his role aboard the Azure Shrike. Though not an experienced sailor, he has some skill, which he reveals comes mostly from handling the large dugout canoes his people once used for fishing. His grasp of the common tongue has improved and he appears to have easily adopted to the "civilized" ways of the city. In the six months since he met Jesar Driftwood, Zacote has adopted some of the local clothing customs, now wearing cotton trousers but mostly going about bare foot and bare chested still.
You have learned something of his past, for he is open and readily answers anything that is asked of him. You learn that his tribe, the Mecatl (which means Rope in his language), lived on the coast of the Amedio, hundreds of miles to the east of Sassarine. They lived traditional lives of hunting and fishing but also traded with the "men from across the sea", possibly merchants from Sassarine . He speaks warmly of his mother Chalchiuitl (Emerald) and you learn that his father was an explorer or merchant from Sassarine or ports further afield.
When asked why he left his village, you learn that his people were attacked by men from large sailing ships, commanded by men in scarlet robes. His people were slain of enslaved. Only he and a few other young men survived, as they were hunting when the raid took place.
Seeking to follow the trail of these scarlet men, Zacote and his friends traveled west through the jungles to find the great port of Sassarine where they hoped to find news of their families. Only Zacote survived the journey.
When asked about his strange weapon, he calls it a Macuahuitl. He says it once belonged to his grandfather, a great warrior.
Zacote's pet jaguar Mezatli sleeps beneath his hammock in the room above the boathouse. The jungle cat, little more than a cub six months ago, is now around 5 feet long and stands over two feet high at the shoulder. She appears tame enough to not hurt Zacote's friends, but few are willing to get close enough to find out. You know that the two of them frequently go hunting in the jungles around the city when there is not work to be done, and Zacote often returns with fresh game to share with his companions.
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Introduction: Danifae
A renegade, Danifae was always at odds with her society and never truly felt that she belonged amongst the drow. Far from compassionate or good, she became disgusted with the senseless cruelty and slavish devotion of her people to the Spider Queen. Born and raised amongst the highborn, Danifae rejected the brutality and evil of her people to answer the call of the Ruby Sorceress - Wee Jas.
Danifae speaks very little about her life amongst the drow and only hints at the deeper darkness surrounding her past. Even though she is now an outsider, she appears content to be free and is more than willing to earn a place in this new world. Danifae is curious about the new cultures and people she encounters, rarely greeting anyone with prejudice or suspicion. However, she has yet to build up a suitable resilience to the insults and stares, or outright violence, she attracts from most of the people she meets. Having come from an assured place at the height of drow society to the opposite in Sasserine, Danifae is facing a steep learning curve.
Generally friendly and open, Danifae is used to getting her own way and will often argue bitterly about decisions she doesn't agree with. She is also quick to object when she believes a course of action is foolish or will not benefit her companions and will rarely give up without a fight. Once she decides to be stubborn only the majority vote will sway her to action, though she will still complain before cooperating with them. This does not mean she supports inhumane behavior or injustice, she is opposed to both, but she does not always see eye-to-eye with her friends.
Danifae possesses the otherworldly attractiveness common to her people -- Lolth, an unforgiving and vain goddess, does not favor the meek, plain or unassuming worshiper, especially amongst the highborn -- with an athletic build and catlike grace that enhances the dark beauty of her heritage. Her black skin contrasts with her mane of white hair and blue -- almost azure -- eyes. Slender and small for a drow female, Danifae is nevertheless impressively dressed in the style of her adopted homeland of Sasserine, preferring lightly colored and form-fitting clothing that allows her both comfort and ease of movement. She is usually dressed in white linen robes and cloak that are better suited to the warmth of Sasserine, but light enough so she can keep herself covered in the humidity of the south. Her hair is usually elaborately braided, though she often covers it with the deep hood of her cloak to mask the true nature of her heritage.
Her constant companion is Naïlo, a black raven who is possessed of the ability to speak Common.
In the last six months, Danifae has changed dramatically even for a drow. Curious, yet fearing her new surroundings, Danifae spent her first days on the surface clinging to her drow heritage. The searing light of the sun burned her sensitive eyes and forced her to either take sanctuary in the Ruby Church or walk the streets of Sasserine at night. She also suffered the harsh reality of being a solitary drow in a world where her people were widely feared and mistrusted. Stoically, she bore through the emotional and physical pain; slowly building a few friendships to sustain her during the loneliness and pain of her first weeks in Sasserine.
Slowly, Danifae has emerged with more confidence, dressing in human clothing and forcing herself to adapt to daylight. While she still feels the sting of rejection, suffering the harsh words and abuse of those who cannot see beyond the color of her skin, Danifae has changed in the last few months. She has become more assertive, no longer feeling misguided guilt for the sins of her people, standing firm behind her decision to abandon the lightless realms of the Underdark to live a life true to herself and her ideals. As a arcane devotee of Wee Jas she now strives to realize her own ambitions, while also attempting to forge a place for herself on the surface and make friends that will sustain her through the trials ahead.
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Introduction: Ishmael
In the last six months, not much has changed with Ishmael Silverpearl. He has acquired for himself a tricorne and a greatcoat, both of which he wears with pride. He believes it gives him that aura of authority.
He still speaks rarely, usually only to bark an order or relay a message. He smiles seldom. You have noticed the only time he truly appears happy is when he is sitting on the end of the jetty, facing seaward with his eyes closed, just listening to the music of the ocean.
You have also noticed he has made friends with the local dolphin pod. Oft is the time you could have sworn you have seen him talking to them, the way a master speaks to a dog. The strange thing is, they seem to talk back, and understand what he says. And oft is the time you have seen them call to him, and he has heeded their call to play in the warm shallow waters of the bay.
Once was the time that you would have dismissed the tales the old whalers would spin you about the boy they call the Dolphin, but not now. Not after all that you have seen. You have seen this boy swim faster than most folk run. You have seen him fish the way the dolphins do. He tracks a whale by following its wake, and listening for its song. Truly, there is more to this lad than first meets the eye.
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From the GM
<Just starting off the storey you guys fee free to add the rest>
The sun was setting on what had been a very routine day. It was going to be a warm cloudless night. Already the smells of cooking and the sounds of revelry melded into the tropical twilight.
A rowdy bunch of sailors were hauling their skiff the "Azure Shrike" into a boat shed. As the sailors secured the boat a young Olman boy ran had run up calling out for Zacote. A wiry, tattooed, slightly older Olman greeted the young boy and the two broke into conversation.
Zacote turned to the half elf skipper of the "Shrike" with a concerned look on his face " Ishmael I must go, I will be away for a few days".
Ishmael nodded "See you soon".
Zacote waved his goodbyes, and ran into the boathouse to grab his gear.
"As soon as you lot have everything, secure we will head on down to the Pelican for some grub and brew," Ishmael said to the others.
"Danifae does not eat grubs! That is for you lesser races," snapped a voice that was both honey and poison.
Laughing a rather effete looking sailor turned to the slim small elf dressed thin cotton clothes and wearing a vale "Danifae my most beauteous queen of the Underdark. Our young and somewhat uncouth Skipper was using the vernacular. Grub is a general term for food".
Danifae stared daggers at the sailor. "Thank you... for correcting me Josh..."
Mitch another sailor laughed, "Its not wise to upset a drow, Josh! You could wake with spiders feasting on your privates!".
"The Shrikes secure, skip," said one of the sailors rapping a crossbow in some oilcloth. "I'll take the gear up to the boat house and catch up with you".
Ishmael nodded his thanks "We will see you there".
"Jaser dropped around this morning he said he had something important to tell us. He also said it was his shout this evening", said Mitch.
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Articles of Piracy, as taken from Sir Arthur Conan Doyle's short-story called How Copley Banks Slew Captain Sharkey
…"and drew up the articles of association. A square of black tarpaulin had the white skull painted upon it, and was hoisted amidst cheering at the main.
"Officers were elected, and the limits of their authority fixed. Copley Banks was chosen as captain, but, as there are no mates upon a pirate craft, Birthmark Sweetlocks became quartermaster, and Israel Martin the boatswain. There was no difficulty in knowing what was the custom of the brotherhood, for half the men at least had served upon pirates before. Food should be the same for all, and no man should interfere with another man's drink! The captain should have a cabin, but all hands should be welcome to enter it when they choose.
"All should share and share alike, save only the captain, quartermaster, boatswain, carpenter and master-gunner, who had from a quarter to a whole share extra. He who saw a prize first should have the best weapon taken out of her. He who boarded her first should have the richest set of clothes aboard of her. Every man might treat his own prisoner, be it man or woman, after his own fashion. If a man should flinch form his gun, the quartermaster should pistol him. These were some of the rules which the crew of the 'Ruffling Harry' subscribed by putting forty-two crosses at the foot of the paper on which they had been drawn."
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Episode Two
The crew moved lodgings from the Boathouse in the Azure District to the Vanderboren Manor in the Merchant District. The Azure Shrike, gifted to the crew from Jaesar, was moved and docked inside the Vanderboren Manor. Zacote returned from his recent journey and Ishmael departed on a personal of an journey of undisclosed nature.
The crew caught a few hours sleep and then escorted the Lady Vanderboren to Ancestor Isle where she hoped to unlock her family vaults and fortune. Norian and Thokk stayed behind at the Manor as security.
On Ancestor Isle the cunning lock was deciphered and sprung mainly due to the efforts of Zacote and Josh. Inside the Vanderboren Vaults little treasure was found, for most had been taken, leaving some chests of silver & copper coins and some business ledgers. Upon quizzing the keeper of the vaults, it was learned that Vanthus, Lady Lavinia's brother, had been coming to the vault and removing the contents over recent weeks. The crew escorted Lady Vanderboren back to the Manor.
The crew discussed the situation – Jaesar's bashing, the recapture of the Blue Nixie, the loss of the family fortune and the apparent betrayal of Vantus – with Lady Lavinia Vanderboren. It was decided that Vantus must be found and the crew resolved to look for him in the city. As Lady Vanderboren was concerned for safety, Norian and Thokk stayed behind at the Manor to safeguard her.
The crew looked all over Sasserine for Vanthus. Each lead seemed to come to nothing or to contradict the lead before. The crew had learned nothing and Vanthus seemed to have vanished within the city. Finally, a break-through came when Jaesar revealed that his information network had discovered the location of Vanthus – Parrot Island! The crew set off with Jaesar to investigate.
But Parrot Island was a trap! Vanthus had leaked the information to Jaesar's network and lay in wait to ambush and kill Jaeasr. The crew could only watch helplessly as Vanthus dropped Jaesar's body down a mine shaft and then sealed the shaft, trapping the crew in a semi-submerged catacomb with flesh-eating zombies, the remnants of the Lotus Dragon gang, betrayed to grisly undeath by Vanthus's schemes!
The crew, while outwitted, was not undone and fought their way out of the trap. Along the way the good instincts of Danifae unearthed the resting place of Vanthus' erstwhile partner Pinkus, betrayed and left to die by Vanthus. In his final words, Pinkus revealed the actual location of Vanthus – beneath the Taxidermists' Hall – and pleaded for vengeance.
Loot Summary [Omitted]
NB – Vanthus was able to elude a concerted effort to track him down across the city. What is more, he was able to learn of this effort to track him down and then use it to spring a trap which cost the life of Jaesar and nearly cost the life of four of the crew of the Azure Shrike. When considering any plans to capture Vanthus, crew members should take into account the ability of Vanthus to disappear without a trace when he needs to, and his ability to learn of anyone looking for him. Currently the crew knows where he is, and Vanthus does not know the crew is aware of his location. If the crew spend time and resources investigating Vanthus' lair, it is highly likely that Vanthus will become aware that the location of his lair is known. What will happen once Vanthus learns the crew knows of his location? Will he disappear again, prepare another trap, or do both?
NB2 – The Dragon Lotus gang, so recently wiped out by Vanthus and his organisation, was previously the premiere thieves guild in Sasserine. [Read Shadowshore section of Players' Guide. –Ed.] This guy is connected and can work the streets! He is also freaking dangerous and possibly wanted by the City Watch. Just so we're all on the same page.
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Josh adds his two cents:
"'s wanted by the watch eh? Heh, p'raps we c'n take 'is 'ead t' the authorities when w're done 'n cash in on our "good fortune" so t' speak, eh?"
He takes a swig of his silver flask, grinning malevolantly, "That bastard's gettin' what's comin' t'im. I say we just storm the lair've the blaggard n' finish 'im off."
He looks about blearily for a moment, then says, "Anyone got a spare club? Them zombie's 've creeped me out."
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Articles of Loot Division
After some discussion at the Bloody Pelican last night, here is a draft idea for the division of loot captured by the group (company of the flaming poisonous crab?).
* All magic items are identified at a cost paid from the pool before division (100gp if done "in-house", or 110 gp if done by an outside expert).
* Scrolls are removed from the group pool and divided among those capable of using them. These scroll do not count towards the characters share. This is done so on the provision that the scrolls are used for the benefit of the group as a whole and not sold, traded or otherwise used for personal gain.
* Healing potions are removed from the group pool and divided equally among the crew.
* The remaining pool of treasure is totaled with minor items (weapons, tools, etc below 100 gp value) valued at 2/3 their face value.
* Each member of the group gets an equal share of the treasure and a single share is set aside as cash for the purchase of healing potions, ammunition and other group assets. For example, we currently have eight members in the Crew of the Shrike, therefore the loot is divided nine ways with each character receiving one share and one share retained for group use.
We will need to make decisions about crew members who fail to take part in an action - are they entitled to a share, a half-share or none?
Another suggestion was made that perhaps we set aside a share to be given to Jaeser's family as well.
Does anybody have any comments, changes, ideas? If we can sort all this out now, it will make division of the group treasure much easier in the future.
-Zacote
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Re: Articles of Loot Division
To these articles I would like to add the following:
1) The Captain gets the first pick of the loot. I think he's the sort of chap who would only opt for an equal share, which is fair enough, but I feel the captain should get first pick.
2) I recommend a full share be given to Jaesar's family. It won't bring him back, but it will make his loss easier to bear financially. Removing that burden would help them. There was a time when he took us all in, and I think it would be the right thing to do.
3) For those who are in the company but did not participate in the battle, no share for them but they can access the company share for healing, paying for repairs, etc. For those who only fought in a part of the engagement, let them take a half share.
-Mitch.
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Articles of Loot Distribution
1) All healing potions are removed from the group pool and distributed evenly among the crew.
2) All scroll are removed from the group pool and divided among the members capable of using them. These scrolls do not count towards that crew member's share. This is done on the provision that the scrolls are to be used for the benefit of the crew as a whole, and not sold, traded or otherwise used for personal gain. Any group member deemed, by vote of the crew, to be abusing this provision shall be excluded from the distribution of scrolls and similar items for a period determined by the crew majority.
3) The cost of identifying all magic items is paid from the group pool before the division of the loot. This will typically occur at a cost of 100 gp per item if performed by a member of the group or 110 gp if we have to rely on an outside expert.
4) The remaining pool of treasure is evaluated and total worth established. Minor items, such as mundane weapons, tools and so forth with a value of less than 100 gp shall be evaluated at a cost of 2/3 their face market value.
5) Each crew member is to receive one equal share. Additionally, one share shall be set aside for the general use of the crew, termed the Shrike's share, and one share shall be set aside for the family of Jaeser Driftwood or other cause designated by majority voice of the crew.
6) The Shrike's share is to be used for the equipping of the crew by way of items such as ammunition, healing potions and the like. Majority voice of the crew is required to draw funds from this share for the purchase of items or other purpose.
7) The Captain of the Azure Shrike shall get first selection of loot, selecting coin and items to the value of his full share.
8) The remaining crew members may then select their share of coin and items to the value of their share. If two or more crew members desire the same item and negotiation over said item fails to resolve the issue, a majority voice of the crew will determine the distribution with the Captain's voice to dominate in times of a tied vote.
-Zacote
A quick note about Jaesar, as I ran this differently to the AP. Jaesar was the kindly old halfling secretary to Islarn.
He had a project where he would adopt the down and out youth of Sasserine and provide them with employment and lodgings.
Jaesar had given the characters a job as on a former whale boat (18 foot open skiff) as customs inspectors. He had also provided them with lodgings above the boat house.
He was also related to the Vanderborens cook and got them recommended to Lavinia through her.
When Vanthus killed Jaesar and threw his body down into the cave and sealed the players in it really ramped up the hate for Vanthus.
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As the dust settles
The hydra ripped and bit into the crew of the Azure Shrike as the crowd watched on and howled with drunken blood-lust. Lavinia watched on in horror, gripping her friend's arm as she saw her chosen champions fall one by one. First Zacote, in his jaguar form, was ripped into quivering bloody chunks by several of the hydra's heads. The crowd screamed in exhalation as his blood flew over the hydra, his companions and the arena's sandy floor. Ishmael was the next to fall, thrown into a pillar and landing in a bloody tangled heap. Mitch made a leap into the midst of the hydra's heads only to be bitten and hurled across the arena. He did not rise after he fell. Josh and Danifae made a valiant last stand only to fall in turn to the hydra's biting mouths.
Lady Lavinia Vanderboren turned her pale face towards the host's box. She struggled to keep her composure as Ternok Mervanchi waved the arena's beast handlers onto the sands and hold the hydra at bay. Medics, dressed as Boatmen of the River of the Dead, ran onto the arena to tend to the wounded, and to bandage the slave-gladiators wounds.
"After all," Ternok leered, "I need to protect my property. These slaves are handy fighters and the crowd seems to like them. Best not to let them die, wouldn't you say Lavinia?"
"We will come to terms, Ternok.," Lavinia replied as she stood to leave. "You will return my retainers to me.
"Neri," Lavinia indicated the dark beauty at her side, "will make the arrangements and see to it that ALL of my retainers are returned to my household."
"Of course, my dear Lavinia. I'll even throw in the bits of the cat-man for free! Hah hah hah!"
*
Most of you awaken bandaged and sore in your beds back at the Vanderboren Manor. Cora the Halfling Maid is tending your wounds, making sure you all heal properly from the damage you have taken. Immediately you sense something missing, a absence, the lack of a presence you have known for more than six months.
Zacote is gone.
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Wormfall
What you know of Wormfall festival:
One year ago, a horrific brush with apocalypse in the far-off city of
Alhaster sent deadly ripples across the entire face of the world. Even in Sasserine the Worm-god's brief emergence into the world had an effect, as monstrous minions boiled out of the Spire of Long Shadows in preparation of the dawn of this new age. Only the intervention of a band of powerful heroes from the neighboring city of Cauldron saved Sasserine from a terrible fate. Now,one year later, Sasserine honors the heroes of that dark day with a wild parade and festival to remember the fallen and rejoice at the victory of good over evil.
Wormfall, as the holiday has been dubbed by city officials, is to be an annual event, a gigantic affair involving troupes of trained acrobats, marching bands, garish costumes in homage of the heroes of Alhaster and Cauldron (and Corresponding effigies of their undead and wormy enemies), and floats constructed in the image of enormous green worms and shrouded skulls. Kites of green worms borne on sticks and strings dance in the air above the rooftops. Green lanterns burn above the streets, casting a sickly pale glow upon the cobblestones below each with a removable shade and a layer of bright gold paper below to bathe the city in the warm sunlight of victory at the exact moment the worms fell and the heroes of Alhaster struck down their foul god.
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A quick note about Jaesar, as I ran this differently to the AP. Jaesar was the kindly old halfling secretary to Islarn.
He had a project where he would adopt the down and out youth of Sasserine and provide them with employment and lodgings.
Jaesar had given the characters a job as on a former whale boat (18 foot open skiff) as customs inspectors. He had also provided them with lodgings above the boat house.
He was also related to the Vanderborens cook and got them recommended to Lavinia through her.
When Vanthus killed Jaesar and threw his body down into the cave and sealed the players in it really ramped up the hate for Vanthus.
Good to see you Mr. Dwarf! Please keep the commentary going. I think we need to add a bit of padding to our missing journal entries.
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Scene: Late afternoon, the front veranda of the Vanderboren Manor. The gardener is clipping the hedges, Mezatli (Zacotes jaguar) is perched lazily in a tree branch swishing flies with his tail. Danifae, Neri, Kaskus, and Zacote sit around a table, cool drinks in hand discussing religion and philosophy.
There is a loud rap at the front gate. The gardener shuffles over and peers through the little window and opens the gate with a bow. Three women dressed in the flowing robes of priestess of Wee Jas stride purposefully into the court yard. One is middle aged but still very beautiful. The other two are young and beautiful.
The eldest priestess turns to the gardener "Take me to your mistress and then fetch the one known as Tolman".
Looking at the group on the veranda the older priestess says to the other two "Complete your task then wait outside".
Neri fixes the youngest with a baleful gaze "If it isn't that steaming pile of goblin dung Kayseopa," muttering just loudly enough for the others around the table to hear.
"Good afternoon Kayseopa," Neri says brightly, "how may we assist you?"
"Silence slave" The pure blood Suel priestess snarls. Turning to Danifae, "You the non-human... fetch the holy symbols of our goddess so that you no longer sully them. You are no longer welcome at the temple. If I had my way animals would never be allowed to serve the goddess."
Danifae rises from the table, with a cold smile on her lips and with eyes of azure fire.
With a cold smile on her lips, and with eyes of violet fire, Danifae places her glass on the table and rises. She stares Kayseopa straight in the eye, "Child, it appears you are are weak of mind for a human and are unable to remember events that barely past," she says, her tone a distinct contrast to the warmth of the late afternoon, "for you, Kayseopa, are not only out of place in your conduct here, you are also mistaken."
With feline grace, Danifae walks to the edge of the veranda to confront the priestess of Wee Jas, her anger thinly veiled beneath her cold smile. "I spent an entire night in vigil and surrendered the vestments of the Ruby Witch to your Church. May be, Kayseopa, you should consult the High Priestess Annah Teranki before coming here and embarassing yourself before your betters."
Danifae steps closer, staring down at the Jasadin, "I have tried to make my peace with Wee Jas and it is not your place to question me, who was once a favoured soul of the Witch Goddess. Now make your apologies, before I put you over my knee and make you regret your insolence, child."
Turning her back on the Jasadin, shes fire one last arrow at Kayseopa, over her shoulder, "It is not the place of a mere initiate to question the relationship between I, who was once favored by Wee Jas, and one who must snivel before her majesty to receive a mere fraction of her attention."
Finished, Danife returns to her seat and sips her tea; her azure eyes smoldering with anger as she stares at Kayseopa.
Kayseopa stutters her jaw slack with shock. Behind her the other acolyte is stunned at Kayseopa's vitriolic attack, but quickly recovers; hiding a quick smirk at the others' discomfort.
Laughing at Kayseopa's utter shock a Neri sits down, and says, "Somebody set you up Kayseopa. You weren't this stupid at school..... you were a b@!@* but not stupid. Come to think of it your aunt was the former High Priestess of Wee Jas in Cauldron, she went a bit gaga and started consorting with demons before they had to put her down... After your outburst, I am thinking that lunacy may run in your family. I would be careful or rumors of your family taint may spread through Sasserine's social set. Now if you feel the need to be put down like your aunt, just ask and I would be happy to assist".
Kaskus looks around from woman to woman stunned at the viciousness. "Now Ladies I'm sure..." Danifae places a hand on his wrist and gives a slight squeeze, though she is not taking much enjoyment from the relevations of Kayseopa's family illness. She removes her hand to take a sip of her tea.
The other acolyte bows, "Mistress Danifae please forgive Kayseopa... Things have been difficult for her, as Neri has pointed out family tragedies have taken their toll." The acolyte's eyes smile with triumph. "I have been most rude... My name is Andrella Lidu, our mistress had sent us to ask if you were in possession of any texts or items of interest to the temple. There is no animosity from our goddess and, although you can no longer participate in our rituals, all of our services are open to you as they would be to any member of the public."
Kayseopa's eyes narrow staring daggers at Andrella, she turns and
storms towards the gate.
Her eyes following the departing Kayseopa, Danifae smiles easily at Andrella, though her eyes remain hard. "Thank you, Andrella. I do not retain possession of anything of interest or use to the Church, though I am relieved to know that I am still welcome in Ruby Church."
Andrella bows with a smile and follows.
A short while later Annah, Lavinia and Tolman arrive at the veranda, and says, "Thank you for your hospitality Lavinia".
"Tolman please consider my proposal, I know that it may not be to your taste, but we could both benefit from your association".
Looking at Danifae, the High Priestess Annah Teranki, raises an eyebrow and smiles, "It is sad that you had to leave the service of the Goddess, you had great potential to rise through the church ranks".
"It is not for us to know the designs of the gods, only to obey".
"Fare well and good luck in your venture".
Danifae rises and bows before the High Priestess, saying, "Thank you. I am indebted to you for trusting in me high one, and I still bear the Ruby Goddess and her Church much love".
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Scene: Interior Lavinia's Private study night.
Present: All PC's
Standing next to large oak table covered in sea charts Lavina holds
leather bound book in her hand
"Do you recall this journal we recovered from my family vault? It turns out that it was my mother's. My parents, may the gods rest their souls, were brave – foolish and rash some would say, but I have never been one to criticise an adventurous spirit. On the contrary..." she casts a wry smile at you all – "I admire it. In any event, it would seem that about four years ago, my mother and father undertook a risky endeavour. They sailed the `Blue Nixie', along with a ship full of colonists, down south and across the Vohoun Ocean to a place they refer to as the Isle of Dread.
"You may have heard of this place – if you haven't, it seems apparent from reading my mother's journals that the place is aptly named. A jungle-covered hell infested with immense reptilian monsters, feral savages, and peril at every turn. Yet the southern peninsula remains relatively sheltered from the menaces on the isle mainland, and it was here, among the villages of several friendly locals, that my parents founded the colony of Farshore.
"The Isle of Dread represents an untapped trove of resources – exotic lumber, spices, animals, foods, and even minerals like silver and gold. Once Farshore was up and running, the influx of trade would have guaranteed my family a relatively uncontested flow of wealth. Yet before Mother and Father were able to return to Farshore with supplies and more colonists…my brother made his move and left me in the state you found me in a few short months ago.
Lavinia indicates her mother's journal. "Since we recovered this journal, I have not been idle. If Farshore fails, then my parents' last legacy fails. I intent to carry on their work, and have planned for a journey south to the Isle of Dread to resupply and join the colonists at Farshore for the rest of the year. I have the `Blue Nixie' readying in the harbour to take fresh supplies to the colony, but I find myself a vessel short." Lavinia's face breaks into a glowing grin as she continues, "You wouldn't know of anyone with stout hearts who might happen to be interested in helping me mount this expedition, do you? I fear the journey itself might grow dangerous at times, and there's now way of knowing what state or condition Farshore is currently in, but I suspect that danger is a vice you have."
Lavinia lowers her eyes "Even with the funds from my family in Caldron I would not have been able to mount this expedition." Looking disappointed, the young woman sighs, "I have learnt that politics is compromise. I have had to make a deal with house Meravanchi. They funded my parents expedition and are keen to renew their stake in the colony."
Lavinia Looks up with a small grin "I have manage to wrangle a few concessions from the Meravanchi. Josh your honour will be restored and you will be welcome back into society…. I do not know how Altor will do this but he assures me he can."
"Mitch I have some information for you in regards to your family" Lavinia hands over a sealed envelope. A look of annoyance crosses her face "It has come to my attention that some members of your crew with help from their immature friends were going to attempt to do something very stupid." Her tone becomes hard "Instead of risking your lives, this expedition and my honor as your employer a third party has arranged her release into your company. She is exiled and unable to return to Sasserine for ten years. Those of you involved can explain it to your fellows".
"Now as you have caused me no end of annoyance your punishment will be to transport Avner Meravanchi son of Zebula. He must arrive alive". Lavinia mutters softly "something that will not happen if that letch is aboard my ship".
"Ishmael I have a gift for you. They were my fathers". She opens a bronze-wood box a compass, sextant and spyglass rest on a bed of silk.
"Zacote thank you for your advice and help", she hands you a beautifully worked jade jaguar necklace.
"Norian so quiet…. these may be of use to you". Lavinia hands over a quiver with ten bolts "These have been enchanted"
"Danifae this is for you" She hands over a silver holy symbol of your goddess".
"Tolman this is for you" she places a waterproof pearl inlaid darkwood scroll case on the table.
"Strom this battle horn is carved form the tooth of a white dragon it is loud".
"Now it is time to see to the preparation of your ship. Copies of maps and charts are here"
"The voyage will be just over 3000 miles, including stops to resupply, fair weather and minimal mishaps it should take us three months".
"Amella has a list of the successful applicants for your crew feel free to make changes should you wish. She also has a list of your passengers".
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This is how Ishmael perceived things let me know if he missed anything:
The Farshore Expedition
It was late Fireseek 598 when Zacote brought me the final victualing lists for my approval. As usual, Amella was barking orders at anyone who was foolish enough to catch her eye. As usual, Mitch was attending to the "needs" of Milady, teaching her fencing, archery, unarmed combat and anything else she would allow him. She appears to appreciate the tutoring that he, and Danifae, provides her. Mitch seems to think there is more going on there than just tutoring. I don't know – from my point of view she just seems to treat him as any student treats her teacher. We shall see…
Lavinia had organised a party for all members of the Farshore Expedition to get to know each other. The party was certainly an eye opener! Conspicuous by his absence, was "His Lordship" Avnar Meravanchi. Lirith was in her usual form, sinking her hooks into any lad who happened to sail by. Unsurprisingly, Josh's interest was piqued. As soon as she walked in, Mitch leant over to me and whispered "That one be trouble, Cap'n" I nodded my agreement. Her sister was the exact opposite. The party had been going for an hour and we could still hear Amella down on the docks, barking orders at Newt making sure the Wyvern was squared away before making her way up here to the Manor. Even in her tricorne and sailor's tack she cuts a striking figure. I was relieved when she showed up looking for a billet onboard my ship. I think she was a little surprised when she found out I was the Captain. It means I'll never be short of a drinking partner in port...
Mitch was concerned that there wouldn't be enough to entertain the crews while we were at sea for months on end. He didn't have to wait long for an answer. I don't know why Mitch and Josh conspire against my sanity so, but, at Mitch's request, Sahmi Kellani – the exile – appeared upon our crew lists. "I'll explain it to you later, Captain," is all he would say at the party. Her appearance also raised the hackles of Kwezulu – a Hepmonolander seaman we hired. The rumour is the Kellani have put a price on his head. He won't say why.
As for his Lordship, the only reason he is still alive is because I promised MiLady he would arrive alive in Farshore. 'Alive' is such a broad term. "You want I should talk to Churtle, Sir? You know people get sick at sea, sometimes very sick, Sir…" was Mitch's response. "Mmm… we'll see. It's up to him how he arrives, Mitch." Danifae was in her usual form, eyeing off Mezatli, Zacote's pet jaguar, questioning why she had to endure such a thing in `her' manor. That was until the Halflings showed up. "Ooooh," she purred "New pets…"
It will be an interesting voyage...
Week One
We were all set to sail from Sasserine, and everything was squared away thanks to our Bosun Amella. All crew were accounted for – except Merivanchi. I was losing patience with him with every passing minute. 25 minutes past cast off time he finally arrives riding a beast that resembled more a small dragon than a large horse. "You will make arrangements to stable my horse onboard, Captain?" he says to me.
"Do you realise what it takes to stow one of those on-board? No prior arrangement was made with me, and we are already half an hour late. It ain't comin!"
"I have paid my way, Captain. Surely there is enough room for it? You will make the arrangements for him!"
"Listen here Merivanchi! This is my ship and you are my guest! Not the other way around. You will do as I." "If I may, Captain? Lord Merivanchi, let us speak..."
If not for the interruptions of young Mitch I would have punched our guest of honor fair in his over-sized conk and forced it out the other side of his over inflated bollard! Mitch did convince his Lordship to leave the horse at home. We were underway.
Three days out, Mi'Lady organized a dinner for the senior members of both the Wyvern and the Nixie. Once again, Danifae was in fine form, challenging Merivanchi's manhood, and he responded in kind, belittling our prelate in front of all these humans. Once again, if not for the comic skills of our First Mate, I have no doubt that we would have been down one lord and up one pile of dust. It will be some time before Avnar musters the brass to even look at Danifae. I have to say, our patroness was looking as radiant as ever that evening. That woman cuts a fine jib. I am starting to see why Mitch finds her so enchanting...
As the evening was winding down, something strange happened. After saying my farewells to Mi'Lady, I was being transferred back across to the Wyvern when the jackstay line snapped. I thought nothing of it at the time. That was until the water mephit attacked. Mitch saw what was happening and made ready the boat, and the harpoons, to rescue the Cap'n, and destroy the beast. Darts and arrows came from all directions at the beast. The beast responded in kind, spitting acid at the now swimming Cap'n and covering the Wyvern in a foul cloud of nauseating vapour. Mitch managed to free himself from the cloud and launched himself off the prow and straight at the beast. His sword came down as the Cap'n's harpoon shot up. The beast was rent asunder. Furol, our naturalist informed us of what the beast was, and asked to keep the corpse. This I allowed.
Upon inspection of the jackstay line, which had been supplied by the Nixie, we found that it had been deliberately cut. This combined with the mephit attack led us to one conclusion – sabotage. Senior crew conducted a thorough search of both ships but no conclusive evidence was found. There are many organisations and individuals who may want us to fail, but none seem to fit the techniques used here. Even Neri, Lavinia's bodyguard, is at a loss to explain what happened. The following day we made harbour at Zacote's old village. There was nothing left, but we took the opportunity to resupply on freshwater and the few vegetable crops that remained in the fields.
From there we proceeded to Fort Blackwell – one of the only places along the coast not controlled by the Scarlet Brotherhood. Mitch made friends with the local governor Juliana Tearwall. The rest of us headed to the Green Man Tavern. Lavinia booked a room and proceeded upstairs for a bath and some quiet time alone. The rest of us took station in the bar wherever there was room. Furol started acting strangely, hiding under the table and pointing to a bunch of gnomes at another table.
"Not gnomes!" is all he would say. Josh went to investigate. Who knows what he said, but the next thing we know, he's flying out a window after being assaulted by one of these gnomes. Furol was right – they be not gnomes, but redcaps – a most vile breed of fey. I leapt across a table at one. That was a bad mistake. It grabbed me and bit deeply into my neck, crushing bone and severing tendons. The next thing I know, the beast has let me go and slumped to the ground.
Behind it I see Danifae, her fingers all aglow and her face has its usual "Saved you again" look upon it. With some assistance, and a lot of bleeding, from the Jade Ravens all but the largest of the beasts were dispatched. It took all of us to take the thing. I don't know who killed it because as I went to assist, it threw a table at me, taking what was left of my beaten body beyond its limits. Only the gods know how I survived the encounter. Judging from the blood on the deck, most of mine was on the outside. After regaining consciousness, thanks to the ministrations of Danifae and Zacote, I went to check upon Milady and inform her of what had happened. I must have looked a fright, if her reaction was anything to go by.
"By the gods! Ishmael... are... are you... injured?"
"I'll live… we ran into some redcaps downstairs. Don't worry it's all taken care of. We're just going to go out and check their lair to see what we can salvage."
"Captain… Be careful" She said with a coy smile. "As you request, Mi'Lady," I replied with a tip of my weary old tricorne.
Juliana was very grateful for our assistance as the settlement had suffered a number of mysterious deaths. The crew has been given the official thanks of the Governess. The red-caps house was looted and later burned. The following loot was found on the red-caps & in their house: large-sized enchanted hide armor, a ring of protection [given to Zacote], 1600gp, 60 pp, two large diamonds worth 30gp, a small alabaster statue of Zerbo the god of sea-merchants worth 300gp [kept on board the Sea-Wyvern], a masterwork battle-axe with a patterned blood-groove, a masterwork composite short-bow with extended range [taken by Mitch], a masterwork halberd with a folded metal head [given to Norian], and enchanted short-spear [taken by Ishmael], an unidentified potion, a ring of featherfall [taken by Danifae], and two arcane scrolls [one with Mount, Undetectable Alignment and Lesser Confusion made by a 1st lvl mage, and one with Ensure Elements and Obscuring Mist made by a 3rd lvl mage].
Three days out from Fort Blackwell Father Feres fell ill. Examination by the healers revealed that a growth was inside his belly. The growth was removed. It was a blue slaad egg. The egg burst into life and moved up onto the deck to attack the crew. This occurred during White Watch and the beast was promptly slain, but only after I had once again been torn to pieces. Father Feres was revived and questioned. He is not a priest, but a con-man named Conrad who was on the run from a scam gone bad in Cauldron.
When in Sasserine he went to Shadowshore asking for a way out of the city. He was met by a mysterious figure who offered to disguise him as a priest. In return Conrad was to deliver a sealed box to the High Priest of Heironeous in Fort Blackwell. The gestation period of the blue slaad is such that it was implanted into Conrad. This was not a part of the sabotage plot, but a manifestation of an evil. As a blue slaad is a beast from the realms of chaos and evil, it is highly unlikely that the church of Hieronius is anything but an evil that needs to be put down.
The decision has been made to turn back to Fort Blackwell and confront this threat. After the stand down of White Watch a Watch-party was held by Mitch to celebrate the good achievements of the crew. In particular Skald the ranger is to be commended for his skill with the longbow. Mitch divided out his own personal stock of booze. Sore heads resulted, but a good impression was made on the crew, and they will surely be more helpful as a result.
And to think Mitch thought the crew may become bored during the long sea voyage. This is but the first week gentlemen. I can't wait to see what is in store for us through the following months...
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From the GM: Before the meeting on the Nixie
It is a balmy night the Wyvern and Nixie lay at anchor in a small bay on the coast of the Amideo. The air is a buzz with mosquitoes searching out exposed skin to feast on. The smell of the jungle, your fellow crew, pitch, pipe smoke, and cooking waft around the craft. Strange hoots and whistles and screeches pierce the twilight, water laps softly up against the ships hull.
The Senior crew are preparing to go aboard the Nixie for a council to discuss the days events.
Captain Ishmael Silverpearl smiles as Newt brings his hat a change of shirt and puts away the captains shaving kit. Amella the fearsome Bo' sun stands beside Ishmael reporting on the days events. Ishmael puts on his shirt covering up a mass of welts and scars.
A ribald joke and laughter ripples across the deck the XO and Josh are animatedly telling a story about one of their "adventures" to some of their crewmates and passengers.
Sitting across from Josh, Samhi Killani stares at him lost in thought.
Danifae and Viri chat quietly as Danifae makes her way to rope ladder leading to the jollyboat.
Strom and Kwezulu practice some fighting manoeuvres in the forecastle the two giants readying themselves for upcoming conflict.
An unlikely group of three have gathered in a quiet discussion, Zacote Urol and Nyddani. A both Zacote and Nyddani look increasingly worried as Urol is excitedly describing something.
Three stand around the ballista Norien the Crossbowman, Valern Tyrol the artillerist and Tolman the ships mage. Tolman jokingly suggests that Norien stick some wheels on the Ballista.....
Facing the last dim glow of the sunset Conrad Horst formerly father Feres prays fervently he has requested and received a chance to speak at the council.
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Mitch - From the GM: Before the meeting on the Nixie
A ribald joke and laughter ripples across the deck the XO and Josh are animatedly telling a story about one of their "adventures" to some of their crewmates and passengers.
The XO has dressed for the occassion, wearing his ornate blue, black & silver jacket of twisted silk armour adorned with the Spire of Sasserine medal. The jacket's unique design allows the XO to wear comfortably in the heat and humidity and he seems to enjoy putting forth the contrast between his 'dressing up' and the captain's more work-like attire.
The XO wears, as is his usual practise, a heavy belt with several weapons. Setting off the XO's jacket is his pride & joy - an ornate basket-hilted rapier. A salted bull-whip made from stingray hide hangs at his right hip. These are the obvious weapons. Hidden tucked away in the belt or on his clothing is a small arsenal of smaller more easily concealed weapons.
For all the XO's studied appearance at being casual, he regularly goes armed to the teeth, and while at first glance the XO seems relaxed but a more careful scrutiny shows he is alert, his jet black eyes often looking up into the rigging to exchange a glance with Pepper the monkey, who watches over him like a hairy guardian angel.
Ever since the defeat of the blue slaad a change has come over the XO. His off-duty personality - his swashbuckling attitude - has seemed almost forced, as if he carried a secret fear or sadness with him that before he had not known. Yet the XO's usually strict attitude to work had softened, his enforcement of discipline less severe. Something had changed withing the young officer after the encounter.
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Zacote - From the GM: Before the meeting on the Nixie
Zacote sat cross-legged on a crate near the quarterdeck, listening as Nydanni relayed her concerns. He was dressed casually in knee-length cotton pants and his sleeveless leather coat, a small clay cup of coca tea in one hand.
"You are sure there is no egg this time?".
The half-orc healer nodded.
"I'm certain it is not the same as Feres, or whatever his name is. But there is definately something. Cole's wound shows no sign of healing and there are signs of infection already."
"It may be some kind of disease" piped in Urol, the gnome naturalist. "Many extraplanar creatures carry pathogens that are just unheard of in our existance. This is quite exciting".
Both Zacote and Nydanni stared at the gnome, who was already reaching for his everpresent notebook.
"All right, not very exciting for Mr. Cole I guess."
Zacote turned back to Nydanni.
"I have some magic that may help. I will need to ask the spirits for assistance first. We should isolate him from the rest of the crew and passengers. Somewhere secure. Just in case".
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Danifae - From the GM: Before the meeting on the Nixie
Leaning against the worn wood of the bulwark, Danifae chats quietly with Vyri who has joined her near the rope ladder leading to the jollyboat. She leans back momentarily to enjoy the mild evening air, refreshed by the slight sea breeze.
She absently adjusts one of her many intricate braids as she leans closer to Vyri, listening intently to what he is saying. Danifae smiles warmly and appears quite comfortable when he briefly touches her arm.
A few moments later, Vyri watches as Danifae climbs down the rope ladder into the jollyboat. They smile at each other, before Vyri turns and walks away from the bulwark.
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Ishmael - From the GM: Before the meeting on the Nixie
Before the meeting on the Nixie
It's a busy afternoon on the quarterdeck of the Wyvern. The Captain is listening intently to everything going on around him. Even with Amelia barking in one ear, and Newt fluttering around, the Captain seems distracted.
"...and then there's the matter of... Sir? Cap'n? Captain Silverpearl... ISHMAEL!"
"WHAT!" he yells with enough volume to make Amelia take a jump back. "Something vexes thee, Sir?" she replies with a barely concealed smirk. "Grrr... let's do this later, Bo'sun. I've got other things to deal with right now..."
"Aye, Sir. Newt! With me... ABLE SEAMAN VENKALLIE! A word?" she barks, as she wanders off to find her sister, with Newt in tow.
"JOSH! Front and Center!"
The Captain has a quiet word to Josh about something. From all the gesturing, pointing and staring it's not hard to figure out what they are talking about.
"All I'm saying, Josh, is 'steady as she goes' alright? Now, go give em a hand with the boat."
The Captain then makes his way towards the waist, muttering under his
breath all the way, "(Mutter, grump, swear)... everybody gone troppo... Mitch, Josh... Sahmi! Bring this aboard my boat? Lavinia? Lavinia... stickin her beak in! Vyri and Danifae? Zacote sniffin' around with Lamiae? Bah! The whole damn boat's gone troppo!"
The Venkallie sisters can't help themselves, as they burst into uncontrollable laughter as the Captain passes them, still swearing in a mix of Keolandish and Oeridian. He scowls at them as he barks his next set oforders.
"Danifae, Sahmi! With me! Mitch, Josh! Secure the ship, then join me on the Nixie! BOSUN HAS THE SHIP! MAKE READY THE SEABOAT!" Amelia stifles back her snickering and resumes her more regular persona. "(Ahem) Aye Sir! Bosun has the con! STANDBY TO LOWER! DOWN SLACK AFT! I'm talking to you, Tyrol, Setterstrom..."
As Ishmael steps aboard the seaboat he mutters, "Let's do this," as he
signals Amella to cast off.
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All-Night Josh - From the GM: Before the meeting on the Nixie
Josh responds to his Captains summons with his usual level of respect. He grins broadly at the friendly warning to not seduce everyone on the ship, and disarms the whole situation with a deferential smile and, "Of course cap'n! I wouldn' wanna make t' others jealous!" and then launches himself to the deck to assist with the launching of the boat.
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Ishmael - From the GM: Before the meeting on the Nixie
The Captain has one more thing to say to the “Wyverns” prior to going across to the Nixie:
“Mi'Lady has asked that we all try and play nice with the Jade Ravens... don’t roll your eyes at me! Just shut up and listen. Yes, most of em are knuckle draggers, but they are in the employ of our employer and they have apparently done some good work for her. She trusts them, and she would hope that we could learn to do the same? I mean really, what is the beef here? Yes they were rude and obnoxious, but do we have to be the same? I’m not asking you to share a cabin with any of em, or anything stupid like that, just don’t be dragged into a sledging match. If all else fails, just keep yer mouth shut and ignore em. I’m looking at you, Josh, Danifae. Now, let’s go and have some fun, hmm?”
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Zacote - From the GM: Before the meeting on the Nixie
"I have never had any issue with the Ravens, Captain," Replies Zacote.
A smirk crosses Josh's face. "Yeah. From what I've seen, Zacote's been quite friendly with some of 'em".
A smile forms on Ishmael’s face, "Like I said, let’s go have some fun!"
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Zacote - Interlude - Mecatl Village
As the small rowboat nudged against the dark timbers of the pier a young man leapt nimbly from the prow. Mitch, flamboyant as usual. Moments later, Zacote climbed up onto the narrow pier to join him. The sleeveless leather coat he typically wore was replaced by a long cloak of spotted jaguar hide. Beneath the cloak his mottled brown fur was dyed with intricate geometric patterns and Olman pictograms. His macuahuitl, a four-foot long strip of dark jungle hardwood set with wicked triangles of polished obsidian, was slung across his back. In his hand he carried a small wooden box.
The young man beside Zacote was dressed in loose sailor's clothing with a broad-brimmed hat perched at what he often described as a jaunty angle. Zacote always thought it simply looked crooked.
"Mitch, welcome to the village of Mecatl. My home".
From where the pair stood, the narrow timber pier stretched for over a hundred feet through shallow mangrove swamps back to the shore. Through the trees the high peaked rooves of several buildings could be seen.
"In the common tongue, I guess, you could say it means place of the Rope-makers. Ships from Sasserine and beyond once come to trade with my people. They came less often in the years I can remember. They will come no more now."
Back out in the deeper waters floated the two ships of the Farshore expedition, the Sea Wyvern and the Blue Nixie. A launch from the Nixie was already rowing through the sluggish waves to join them at the pier, while the crew of the Wyvern were busy launching a second boat.
"Mezatli, come".
At Zacote's command, a large spotted jungle cat leapt up from the row boat onto the pier by his side. Kwezulu, the dark-skinned Hepmonolander sailor, then pushed the boat away from the pier and began rowing back towards the waiting ships.
The two men walked quietly along the pier through the mangroves with the jaguar following a pace or two behind. Here and there along its length a few small dugout canoes still bobbed gently on the waves, nets and wicker-work fish cages stacked neatly in their hull.
As they cleared the mangroves, the pier ended at a large clearing. Nearby stood wooden frames hung with ropes and sail canvas, others that would once have been strung with fish drying in the sun now stood empty.
Beyond could be seen over a dozen long timber houses, their thatched rooves reaching steep peaks over thirty feet above the ground. The heavy timber faces of these buildings were carved with intricate depictions of spirits, gods and monsters. The buildings were arranged in a crescent around a central clearing that once would have bustled with villagers preparing food, mending nets or simply sharing news of the day. Now it stood empty.
On the far side of the buildings stood a low ziggurat of packed earth, reaching over forty feet above the clearing. Arranged before the ziggurat could be seen dozens of carved timber poles, each depicting an animal of fantastic being from the Olman spirit world. The totems of the Mecatl.
Occasional signs of violence could be seen through the clearing. Overturned timber frames, a partially collapsed building where a fire had been set, the white of bone seen through the long grasses that were now reclaiming the hard packed earth. A human skeleton protruded from the soft mud beside the pier, rotted leather still clinging to its frame, one of the slavers left to rot where he fell.
Zacote stood silently and stared at the silent village for a few minutes. Eventually he turned to Mitch and pointed to the buildings.
"Please friend, I would ask that nobody makes off with items from the houses or disturbs the totems."
Mitch nodded "Of course".
"Beyond the buildings, there on the left, are storehouses. They may still have grain that is edible, but it is unlikely. A hundred yards past them are the fields. There should still be crops there that we can take. There was also plentiful game in the jungles beyond. I can tell the men where. But now, I have things to do."
*****
Zacote moved slowly through the buildings of his old village, a woven basket in one hand, collecting items. A bone comb, a flint spear head, a needle, a bracelet of copper or gold, a carved mask. As he finished each building he added the items to the ever-growing piles arranged before the totems of his people.
In the distance he could hear the sounds of the crew and passengers gathering supplies. From the sound of squawking he could hear, some of the tribe's chickens still lived in the trees around the village.
Pausing in his task, Zacote watched as baskets of corn and lengths of sugar cane were stacked near the pier awaiting transfer to the ships. As he looked on, he noticed the dark haired sorceress Liamae watching him from the jungle's edge. The two watched each other for a few moments before she turned and headed into the cool green shade of the jungle.
*****
Zacote stood atop the earthen ziggurat arms raised to the sky, chanting the prayers for the dead. A carved wooden mask now covered his face. Finishing the prayers, he turned to the goat that was pulling nervously at its tether beside him. Slowly he knelt before the animal and made soft bleating sounds and raised his hand to the animals face. As he stared into its eyes, the animal ceased its nervous movements and calmed noticeably.
The goat stared placidly up at Zacote as he stood, picking up the wooden implement beside him as he did so. With a swift stroke from the obsidian-bladed weapon the animals head fell to the dirt, its eyes still calm. Blood poured over the top of the ziggurat, soaking slowly into the packed earth surface. Zacote kneeled once more before the goat and gathered some of the gushing blood into a carved wooden bowl. Softly he offered a prayer of thanks to the animal for giving up its life.
Raising his hands in the air once more, Zacote finished the prayers for the dead.
Finally, Zacote walked down the sloped front of the ziggurat to the totem poles at its base. Two larger poles stood at the centre, one depicting a great feather snake, the other a jaguar. Standing before
the form of the two great totems, Zacote regarded them both for a moment.
First, turning to the feathered serpent, he dipped his hands in the bowl of goat's blood and dabbed it on the wood of the totem.
"Great Feathered Serpent, Great Quetzalcoatl. Trickster I should name you after leaving me in this body. But your wisdom is great feathered one, and you see much from your sky realm. You must surely have your reasons. I ask that you lead me, help me find those that have been taken."
Then, turning to the totem of the great jungle cat, Zacote poured blood from the bowl he carried onto the dark wood.
"Great Jaguar, great Tecuani, hear my prayers. My people lie slain or enslaved. Grant me the vengeance I seek. Lead me to the scarlet men so I may hang their bodies before your shrine deep in the jungle's darkest places. Let me take the hearts of the men who have done this and burn them upon the ziggurat."
He took the wooden jaguar mask from his face and placed it before the totem. Then, drawing a small obsidian knife, he cut a deep line across his palm. Squeezing the cut hand into a tight fist he let the blood drip slowly onto the carved mask and the ground.
*****
Zacote moved slowly through the low grave mounds behind the ziggurat. Weeds and vines had begun to cover some closer to the jungle's edge. Several graves were fresher, containing those he had found during his search of the village.
On each grave he placed a small portion of meat from the slain goat, food for the dead, and poured a measure of rum from the clay flask he carried. Each time he made a greeting to the spirit of the one buried there. At some he stopped and placed objects, carved wooden tokens and flowers.
Coming to one grave, he paused longer. Here, he laid the wood and obsidian blade he carried on the earth.
"I have failed you grandfather. A year has passed and I have found no sign of the men I seek. I have not found our missing people. I feel I am no longer worthy of carrying your weapon."
Zacote slowly stood, tears running down his face. The mecauhuitl lying still on the grave. As he started to walk away, the roar of a jungle cat split the air. Turning, he scanned the treeline past the graves.
Sitting in the branches at the edge of the jungle, Zacote could make out the form of a black-furred jaguar starring at him. The two locked eyes. Zacote was filled with visions of violence, of burning ships, and a bloody heart clenched in his hands. When he broke gaze from the animal it turned and dissapeared into the jungle.
Turning back to the grave, Zacote tookm up the mecauhuitl again and hefted it in his hands.
"I may yet have need of this grandfather".
Before he turned away, Zacote plucked one of the feathered token from the weapon's blade. Kneeling at the grave he unearthed a small hole and buried the token.
"I will return it when my task is done".
*****
As the last of the supplies were loaded into the launches, Zacote stood alone in the centre of the village. From the edge of the mangroves he could see Liamae and Danifae waiting for him. He waved them on, indicating he would join them soon.
He walked to the long hut he once shared with his mother and sister and her children. Drawing an elaborately decorated curved knife from his belt, he reached up and cut a handfull of thatch from the roof. Stuffing this into a pouch at his belt, Zacote then chopped two of the wooden totems from the carved board above the door.
Walking into the hut, he drew a flint and steel from his pouch and struck it against the oil-soaked rags placed against the far wall. The flames grew quickly and shortly had reached the thatch overhead.
Plucking up a torch from the flames, Zacote walked out and into the next building, and the next.
As he walked back along the pier to join his crewmates, black plumes of smoke rose above the mangroves to mark the end of Mecatl. Soon the jungle would take back the land as it eventually did to all places built in its domain.
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Danifae - Interlude - Mecatl Village
In the endless darkness of my homeland, there are many colors, but green is rarely one of them. Here in the realm of the light, green is a colour in abundance; it is everywhere in these exotic lands and in so many shades. It is one of many simple things I have come to cherish in my short time on the surface.
Amongst the drow, green is a reviled color as it is so often associated with the ancient enemies of my people, the hated elves of the surface. In my homeland, green is only used to mark a traitor, one who has been forsaken by Lolth, usually for helping naut'lodias in some way. The unfortunate soul often wishes to be punished with death, though he is more likely to spend the rest of his short, violent life as a drider.
Death is common in the black of the Underdark – a word used by surface dwellers to name the world beneath – where life is cheap. They never ask you one question. Just before death. There is no need. For all drow know that death will claim them well before old age does. Death is more often at the hands of someone close to you, than from the hands of a stranger. My mother was murdered on her birthing bed by my father, without any remorse; only three decades later I found that my father had almost forgotten about the murder altogether.
Life under the light of the sun, or the pale caress of the moons, appeared to be more highly valued on the surface. I held on to the hope that in these strange lands I would find that conscience ruled, that life had a deeper meaning and that this led to a respect for all creatures. I am now beginning to understand that life can be as cheap on the surface as it can be in the lightless realms of my homeland.
The surface races can be as heartless and vicious as any drow, I have seen within Sasserine itself a disrespect for life that I thought was only capable of existing in the vacant hearts of my people. In Mecatl Village, I once again encountered a word that is never spoken in the language of my people, for there has never been a need to describe a concept that is at once alien and yet embodied by the vast majority of my race: inhumanity.
Arriving at Mecatl Village I was at first dazzled by the green, the vibrant colors of the jungle and the breathtaking beauty of the land. In such a paradise, death or suffering would have to be as unimaginable as a conscience amongst my people. Yet I felt the emotion deep inside Zacote as we walked towards his village, as I imagine we all felt the `wrongness' that seemed to grow steadily as drew closer to Mecatl.
In the shade of the encroaching jungle stood Zacote's village, at once full of life and yet devoid of the inhabitants one would expect to see going about their daily lives. Here, in the shadow of the jungle, stood an entire village emptied of its people; frozen in time and slowly being consumed by nature.
Walking amongst the ruins, I could not help but feel a growing sense of unease that the violence visited upon these people would happen again elsewhere. The `wrongness' that I felt came from the absence of people where it was so obvious that they should still be here. Their homes, tools, toys and weapons appeared to be almost left where they were cast aside, as if absently.
As I spent more time wandering around the village, the damage became more apparent. Bones littered the ground, here and there, while some of the huts had been razed or were marked by fire like old, ugly scars. Amongst the ruins, the shadow of death lingered. A great sadness consumed the village. Here was an example of how humans could treat other humans.
Settling down between two trees, I drew my knees to my chest and waited for Zacote and the others. I noticed Ishmael, Lamiae and Mitch wandering amongst the ruins. No one remained unaffected by the experience of coming to Mecatl Village.
Here in Mecatl, green came to represent a funeral pall that covered the coffin that this village had become. Leaning my back against a tree, I closed my eyes and prayed to Eilistraee and the gods of this place.
This is where Zacote's totems appeared to have once lived, not only in the hearts of his people, but beside them. Now these gods seemed to have diminished. They linger here like specters, waiting for the Mecatl who once honored them to return. The sadness that clung to me was for Zacote; whose people, I felt, would never truly return to this place. For the beauty of this land was blackened by tragedy and now consumed by fire.
Still, the land and these people appear to be one, or so I have overheard discussion amongst the crew. May be I am mistaken and that Mecatl Village can be made whole again?
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Ship's Log, written by the hand of First Mate Mitch
A great tragedy has struck the expedition with the death of our good friend and captain, Ishmael Silverpearl. He died in Fort Blackwell during the purging of the false temple of Heironeous. It is my sad duty to chronicle these events.
Three days southern travel from Fort Blackwell the crew of the Sea-Wyvern dealt with the blue slaad parasite that had infected our assistant prelate, "Father Feres". As detailed in the captain's last journal entry, the blue slaad was dealt with and "Father Feres" – in reality a con-man called Conrad – confessed to his involvement in a dark scheme. The temple of Heronious in Fort Blackwell was actually a temple to some rising evil and chaos.
A decision was reached amongst the senior crew to turn back to Fort Blackwell and end this danger. Plans were made to discuss the matter with Lavinia – our detour would delay the expedition and so needed her approval. A dinner was held onboard the Blue Nixie and was attended by all senior crew (the Wyverns*), the Jade Ravens, Urol Forol, and Avner Meravanchi.
(* The Wyverns = Ishmael Silverpearl, Danifae, Zacote, Strom, Josh, Tolman, Norian and myself; the former members of the Azure Shrike.)
Lavinia was reluctant to turn back and delay the expedition, but she understood the danger that the false temple presented. Fort Blackwell is an important link way-point for any ship sailing to Farshore. To protect the interests of the colony, Fort Blackwell would have to be defended. The decision was reached to turn back.
During dinner our saboteur struck again. The cutlery had been poisoned. (Neri had checked the food, but not the cutlery.) Both Ishmael & myself fell quickly ill. The saboteur struck hard & fast, releasing the yard-arms above the deck and sending them crashing down onto the table. A number of the assembled guests were felled by these heavy timbers. A splash was then heard in the water and Ishmael – cured from the continuing effects of the poison by the timely use of a `Tile of Negate Poison' – dove off the side to investigate. Josh quickly joined him. Danifae spotted some movement from the rigging, but was unable to target the movement with her magic. Ishmael was in the water and I, dying from poison, was unable to direct our movements. Confusion reigned.
In the water Ishmael found himself battling a large shark, a creature
summoned by the saboteur. Ishmael fought well, but the gods did not favor him and he was bitten savagely by the creature. Josh drove the shark off and rescued the unconscious him, dragging the unconscious captain back to the Nixie.
As the wounded were being tended to, the saboteur struck again, striking from her invisible concealment and stabbing Danifae in the back. The saboteur was Rowyn Kellani, the former head of the Lotus Dragons, the gang that was crushed by the Wyverns back when they were the crew of the Azure Shrike. Danifae was injured, but not killed, and was able to fight on.
Rowyn was quickly dealt with by Zacote & Danifae. She was stripped of her weapons and hog-tied by myself. I admit I was not at my best, still being sick from the poisoning, and I did not tie her effectively, for soon she freed herself and attacked again. In the interim we learned that she had stolen aboard the Sea-Wyvern in order to revenge herself and her family against the Wyverns and against her sister Sahmi. She had hidden herself beneath the privy of Captain Jacobs of the Nixie.
In Rowyn's eyes she saw us as the instruments of her family's loss of power & influence, and saw her sister as a betrayer worthy only of a cruel death. After Rowyn freed herself and attacked once more, she was turned to ash by Danifae's magic. So ended the tale of the Sea-Wyvern's saboteur. (Next time we search for a saboteur, we must remember to leave no privy unsearched.)
I lay on my sick bed for three days recovering from the effects of the black adder poison as we sailed back to Fort Blackwell. The return journey was uneventful. I am not sure if the crew was disappointed or relieved that the flock of wyverns was not encountered again.
Upon reaching Fort Blackwell the Captain, Danifae and myself rowed ashore to speak with Governess Tearwell. The harbor guard was told that we had a sick man, and needed the talents of the temple of Heironious, but that we were concerned of the risk of infection, and had come to ask the Governess about how to co-ordinate the quarantine. I knew the story would spread amongst the militia – sometimes the bigger the lie, the easier it is to believe!
Our plan was to get to the temple without tipping the false priests off that we knew they were false worshipers. I did not hold too much faith in our plan, for I have a superstition that no team-based 'infiltration plan' EVER works as it is supposed to; however, I was determined to do my best to give us every advantage.
Governess Tearwell was not convinced by our story of falsehood at the temple, but agreed to accompany us back to the Sea-Wyvern to learn more for herself. On speaking with Urol Forol and Conrad, the Governess was finally convinced and agreed to lend us whatever help she could. We arranged for a cordon to be thrown up from the harbor to the temple "for the purposes of quarantine" by her militia. There was some concern as to the loyalty of the militia, but the Governess was convinced that ultimately her militia would obey her and not the temple.
Our attack team consisted of Captain Ishmael, myself & Pepper, Zacote & Mezatli, Danifae, Josh, Tolman, Conrad, and Skald. Conrad had become a devotee of Heronious and wanted to play an active part in the cleansing of the temple. Skald has a distaste for "frogs" and wanted to try his arrows out against the slaad we feared we would encounter. The captain made a point of stating that the temple needed to be razed. They had attacked one of our own and so needed an "ass-whipping". We were to remember his words shortly afterwards.
We approached the temple with Conrad on the stretcher acting the sickman, and Josh leading the way – his glib tongue would serve us well. Three acolytes stopped us at the temple entrance. Soon the bluff had come to an end and one of the acolytes shed its human skin to reveal itself as another blue slaad.
The battle was swift as we fought as a team. Everyone had their roles to play and we were fast and efficient. Distracted by the Wyvern's frontal assault, the slaad soon fell before under my blade. Three more acolytes arrived. Tolman reacted with his usual élan and dispatched them with a fireball. As I approached the temple doors another blue slaad came up from nearby stairs and attacked. I fled onto the roof and the slaad was quickly slain by the captain's twin harpoons. We were feeling justifiably confident. As a team we were fighting well and effectively.
Inside the temple we were confronted with yet another blue slaad and a green slaad. Danifae's warning that the green slaad could generate fireballs at will came too late and most of the team fell burning and on fire. Conrad lay still an unmoving and most of us were injured. As we recovered the blue slaad attacked.
Danifae and I dodged past the blue slaad and attacked the green slaad. It continued to rain fireballs down upon the crew. Tolman's magic gave us an edge but he soon fell scorched to the temple floor. Skald's arrows proved ineffective against the slaad's tough hide, Josh's daggers were only slightly more effective. Ishmael & Zacote fought the blue slaad in a desperate battle. It seemed the gods continued to look without favour on the captain as the blue slaad tore into him. Zacote could do nothing as the evil creature quickly slew the captain in front of our eyes.
Josh then answered the blue slaad's charge by engaging it to deadly effect with his knives and Zacote turned his attention to the green slaad. Both of slaad fell to the combined attacks of the remaining team members, but the damage had been done – our captain was dead.
Resistance in the temple soon collapsed. The temple was looted and the Governess took over its administration. All surviving members of the temple cleansing were awarded the `Rock of Blackwell', an award similar to the `Spire of Sasserine', for the services we had provided.
The false temple has been cleansed. I am not by nature a religious man,
but I do not like such evil as we have seen there. Such unrelenting hate must be opposed, and it has warmed my cynical soul to see the Wyverns unite so whole-heartedly to so readily oppose the evil we found in Fort Blackwell.
I seldom pray, but my prayer now is that the gods can quicken the path to peace for our friend and all ways captain, Ishmael Silverpearl.
Amella the other Wyervans and myself to speak about the captaincy. In truth I do not think I as good a captain as I am a naval officer. My skills lie in the realms of navigation & war-fighting, not in seamanship, and I feel Amella might make a better choice as captain for the long sea voyage ahead. I am hoping that she will take command and to hire on to fill the role of Boatswain. We will see what Amella and crew say.
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From the GM: From the journal of Skald of the Styes, 15 Coldeven 598
Tragedy.....the world seems to crash from on crisis to another.
Today we laid to rest a good man, a man I respected. Why? Because some bastard priest wanted more power.
Scouting through the temple with the senior Wyverns, I came across a journal belonging to a sage just out of Greyhawk Academy. Poor sod.....another tragedy I suppose. Ameris U'Istan was his name, flicking through his journal he seemed a decent enough lad.
For his first and last job he was hired to assist a group of priests of Hireonuous study some new type of demon they had captured at Fort Blackwell.
Upon arriving at the temple Ameris knew exactly what they had, a Red Slaad. Ameris begged them to banish it, to kill it. Garfoin the head priest stalled and said that he did not have the power to do this.
Ameris said he was going to go to the governor to have the beast put down. The next thing Ameris knows he wakes locked in his room.
Have to give it to the lad he was professional. He knows what had happened, he could feel the thing "Larvae" he called it, moving inside him reaching into his mind.
Still he documented it all in his journal with a precision even Urol would be jealous of.
The lad tried to kill himself several times but the will of the Slaad growing inside would not allow him to harm himself.
The bastard priest Garfoin visited him often, Ameris learned that Garfoin was a priest of the Hopping Prophet (I knew I could smell frogs) they had subverted the temple and planned to massacre all of the Demi Humans in Ft Blackrock in the name of their god Wastri.
Garfoin had hit on the idea that the Slaad being vaguely frog like would make great allies. Only being able to Summon a Red Slaad and it being unable or unwilling to communicate they needed help from a specialist and hired Ameris.
At least Ameris got some revenge. He knew that as he was an arcane spell caster that a Green Slaad would emerge. He warned Garfoin that the Green would take over the temple. The priest just laughed. Ameris journal ends with him planning to choke Garfoin to death on his next visit.
Bloody frogs, by Obad-Hai's hairy nut sack I hate frogs.
So today we all stood at the "Rock" one of the fortress gates of Fort Blackwell for a ceremony for a man that did not deserve to die.
It was hart wrenching day.
Little Newt clutching the captains hat soaking the parade ground with his tears. Amella Stern her face set, her lip did quiver at the sight of Newt. She squeezed the lads shoulder and told him to be brave for the Captain.
Lady Lavinia pale and shaken putting on a brave face. We all knows she had a bit of a thing for the good Captain. It was a good thing that Neri and Danifae were there to support her.
The Wyverns the crew of the Nixi and the colonists stood quiet and solemn.
Now I know that there was some bad blood between the Jade Ravens and the Wyverns but Tolin stepped forward and laid one of his favorite swords on Ishmaels coffin. The other Jade Ravens all stepped forward and placed an item that they valued on the coffin to be buried with the captain.
Urol later told that it was a Jade Raven ceremony when one of their company died that they buried something of theirs with their companion so they knew that they weren't alone in the afterlife.
A speech was made by the governess and she said that a statue of Captain Silver Pearl had been commissioned. We the "Temple raiders" had been granted Citizenship of Fort Blackwell and awarded a medal. I'd give it all back if it could bring the captain back.
Conrad refused his honors saying that he had long way to go before he atoned for his past and deserved now reward.
Conrad wants to stay in Fort Blackwell he says that he should rebuild the temple and train priests to combat threats like the Slaad.
Lavinia apparently told him to go away in very unlady like terms I believe she holds him in some small part responsible for Ishmael's death.
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Danifae - Regarding the Captain
After Deranthil's speech, Danifae looks around the room and says, "Amella, never, the next captain has to be one of our own!"
To each in turn she gives a hard stare, before it lingers on Ishmael Deranthil.
"Mitch as captain, I can accept; even though I can't believe I just said it! Our fraternity has been bound by blood ever since we accepted Jaesar's offer to work for him on the harbour. We few have fought together, bled in the defence of each other, lost companions dear to us.
"Whoever steps up to be captain, must come from our ranks. Next we will be asking a Jade Raven to be XO. If someone must take the captaincy, it should be Mitch. He has served in that capacity since the beginning and he is the best suited after that role to be captain. May be it is time for him to stop wagging that chin and actually take on some responsibility.
"We have decided on the path for the Sea Wyverns. We as companions have made the long journey to this point. We, through our actions have ensure that Lavinia has made it this far. This entire expedition is the work of the Sea Wyverns, not Amella, the crew or the Jade Ravens.
"I will swear by the Dark Maiden to serve any one of the Sea Wyverns who be captain. I also swear that any one else who becomes captain will find me less than cooperative for the rest of this voyage or beyond. Next we will be asking Tolin to keep morale up on the Blue Nixie!
"I am against keeping this a secret from Norien or Strom either. They should know of what happened here in this temple. It is far from right to keep them from our trust. You risk too much by keeping a secret like that from our companions. You ask us to keep a secret that has the potential to drive a wedge between the Sea Wyverns.
"Deranthil, you're Ishmael. You are captain. You are not dead! The gods have given you a second chance. A blessing. Now you turn away from the boon given you? Few are brought back from the dead. It is not a gift that is granted lightly either. So you might not be able to breath water anymore?! You may not want to act as captain, but you are still Ishmael Silverpearl!"
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Ishmael - Regarding the Captain
Re: Regarding the Captain
Deranthil holds her gaze and speaks in a voice that barely conceals his anger.
"Think what you will, drow, but it is not your decision to make. I have made my decision and while you are aboard MY ship you will obey my direction. Is that understood?"
"His demeanor relaxes and his voice softens, "Danifae, I do not make enter into this pact lightly. I ask you to trust me - there are reasons for my secrecy. It is important that the world believes that Silverpearl is dead. When the time is right, I will reveal all, to all the Wyverns... and to Lavinia.
"Lavinia! Danifae, this is where I'm going to need your help. I need you to look after her, support her, and keep Tolin from sniffing around. I'm sure it won't take him long once he finds out Silverpearl is toast. If he touches her... I'll break both those tree trunk legs of his!
"As for Mitch and Amella: The ex has made his decision. If he chooses not to accept his fate as Silverpearl's successor, then so be it." A wry smile crosses his face.
"Perhaps he was never destined for greatness like you and I. Amella is certainly worthy of the position. She was one of Silverpearl's oldest friends and certainly the best mariner aboard the Wyvern. She will only be there in a caretaker role until it is time for Deranthil to step into Silverpearl's shoes. Over to you, XO."
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Ishmael - From the journal of Deranthil
It is always interesting observing people at a funeral.
Especially for one such as Ishmael Silverpearl. Looking around it is obvious that he was well respected. It is a good thing to know. Even his rivals stepped forward and paid their respects. It left a lump in my throat to see Tolin place his favourite sword on the coffin. I would never have expected that. Perhaps the Ravens and the Wyverns can become allies after all.
You can always count on the reactions of a child. Poor Newt - standing there, holding the Captain's cap, the last remaining remnant of the only father figure he ever had and sobbing like an infant. Kids never change.
Women will always default to their feminine side, even Amella. The Bo'sun has been known to make a half-orc cry. Yet there she was, arms clutching Newt telling him to be brave, but fighting back the tears herself.
Lavinia is an interesting case. There is no doubt her grief was genuine, but how much was out of sorrow and how much was for the loss of a powerful ally? After all she is a politician and she is skilled in manipulation... so the question remains: Did she love Silverpearl, or did she love the Captain of the Sea Wyvern? She is still quite young and perhaps inexperienced in love's incarnations. I wonder if Danifae has been tutoring her in such things? Drow love rituals can be fairly rough for the uninitiated...
Her reaction to Conrad was perhaps a little harsh, but perhaps it is an insight into her psyche. Laying blame is a normal part of grieving, so perhaps she truly cared for him. Time will tell... let's see how long she mourns her loss.
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Danifae - The Drown List
1. Avner, Lord Flatulence
2. Urol
3. Tolin
4. Jade Ravens (every one...)
--5. Rowyn Kellani (done)--
6. Sahmi Kellani (may be tomorrow)
7. Josh (for obvious reasons)
8. Hydra (one day soon...)
9. Mitch (moved from Number 1)
10. Ishmael Silverpearl (not happy someone beat me to it)
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From the GM: The Journey Ahead
[Source material omitted]
What do You Know: The Journey Ahead
Leaving the relative safety of the port of Sasserine in the Azure Sea to mount an expedition to the Isle of Dread at the urging of Lavinia will not be easy. The Isle of Dread is located far to the south in unfriendly equatorial waters where severe tropical storms and numerous unnatural dangers loom.
Two vast seas, known as the Densac Gulf and the Pearl Sea, are among the least known waters to the residents of the Flanaess. By reputation, the region is more magical, feral, and unforgiving than the main continent. Friendly ports of call and potential allies are almost non-existent.
Fortunately, you are not going into the daunting journey completely blind. Lavinia has the charts her parents use d to navigate to the Isle sever al years ago to establish the colony of Farshore. The arduous journey involves skirting the coast of the vast Amedio Jungle from-Sasserine to the ruins of the Olman city of Tamoachan and then following the coast southward until the expedition reaches the fourth of the great rivers before veering south. Along the way, the expedition plans on visiting the friendly village of Renkrue on the easternmost of the Isles of Axuxal' Halfway to th e Isle of Dread, the mysterious Isle of Ruja serves as one last land mark. There the open water of the Pearl Sea (referred to as the Vohoun Ocean by the local pirates) beckons. The course continues due south and for many hundreds of leagues.
The Sea Wyvern must then cross a vast stretch of empty sea whose stillness belies its menace. If you can survive the long journey with the vessel in tact, the shores of the Isle of Dread beckon.
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From the GM & Danifae - The Funeral
(This funeral was for the crew members who died fighting a hydra. Ishmael's funeral was previous and he is present as Deranthil. The eulogy was written by Danifae's player.)
The skies darkened as the day gave way to night, the last rays of sunlight cast deep shadows across the Sea Wyvern's deck. The western horizon was aflame as the east began to purple with darkness. All was silent, except for the gentle rocking of three ships anchored and creaking of timber. The gentle breeze barely rustled a sail, though it carried the voices of the mourners as they made their final goodbyes to family and friends who had recently passed from this realm. It was as of the gods themselves were holding their breathes, taming even mighty Osprem and mercurial Procan, to allow the gathered a moment's peace to mourn.
The Blue Nixie and Purity's Prow stood sentinel as the Sea Wyvern as the crews farewelled the fallen. All differences set aside, no one stood as superior to another, for all were equal in their grief. The last week had seen the loss of many fine people, who had died fighting the Scarlet Brotherhood or had seen a violent end within the maws of the hydra, that had risen from its watery home to slaughter crew sent to replenish water supplies. To a small few, the deaths left deep scars in their hearts that threatened to consume them with the bitterness of loss. For the others, the shock of losing comrades, who had lived so close to them for so long, but were now gone.
With her white hair blazing in the afternoon sun, framing her head in a halo of light, Danifae stood once more before the gathered crews. The sting of loss, so common amongst the drow, did not touch her in the way it did those around her. For the drow were accustomed to the harsh realities of their world, a dark world where friendships were conveniences and life was worthless. For Danifae, who was slowly coming to understand the ways of her new world, she felt the undercurrent of emotion; but knew, in her own heart, that she would not feel that sense of loss tomorrow. Jesar and Kora had been dear to her, yet even now, the pain of their deaths had passed. Those deaths were still significant, but she had come to accept them as part of her reality, that people die and all you can do is move on.
Now, standing before these people, many of whom were her friends and even those who she now led in the faith of the Dark Maiden, she felt nervous for the first time in her life. Now, standing before these people, as prelate, she was expected to offer words of comfort and hope. Looking into the faces of the gathered, Danifae felt a momentary flutter of panic, of doubt. This moment was not trivial. This was not a moment to treat lightly and hope for the best. The people before her needed something from her that she had never had dreamed of offering to anyone before. The black tide of panic and doubt rose up within her again, this time more strongly. All she had to do was speak, to offer these people comfort and hope.
Danifae drew a breath. Exhaled. She willed herself to calm and looked across the faces before her; then into the fading light of the western
horizon.
"We have tasted the bitter-sweet gift that is life. We are born and we grow. As we journey down the many paths that are our decisions in life, we cross the paths of others. These others may share our path for a short time, they may journey all the way with us to the path at the end of the clearing. Even more may join us, leave us and rejoin us on our path through life.
"We have tasted the bitter-sweet gift that is life. We have shared laughter and love, pain and sorrow. For as we continue our journey, we must come to terms that our path is often dangerous, that perils do lie hidden before us. We must come to understand that our family, friends, and even those we may consider enemies, may well be lost on our journey.
"There are no words that can diminish the sense of grief and loss we feel today. There are no words that will sooth the pain. However, there are words that will allow us to find some solace. To allow us to find a sanctuary for our wounded hearts, to let our wounds close, and in time, the gods' willing, to heal.
"Before we send those we have lost into the arms of the eternal sea, let us take a moment to remember them in silence."
The cool breeze, heralding the coming of night, rustled the palls of the dead and the sails above. Danifae, allowing a minute of silence to pass, drew in a deep breath. Exhaled.
"We have tasted the bitter-sweet gift that is life. We drink deeply of the sweet waters in times of light, yet shy away in times of darkness. Now, even in the darkness of our grief there is light, and we may still drink of the sweet waters. For as we remember our fallen, our loved ones, we can see them as they were: vibrant and burning bright.
"Now is the time for farewell, we entrust these souls to the gods' and bid them good journey as they seek out the paradise that awaits them. As their souls pass into the realms beyond, we send them into the immortal embrace of the sea. In our hearts' they shall reside until we too, come to the journey's end in this realm and join them in the next.
"We have tasted the bitter-sweet gift that is life. However, even in the darkness where our hearts are most bitter, the waters of life are still sweet. For we are only to recall the light and know there is hope. Remember those who we send off today, even if it is as simple as a smile or the sound of laughter that still echoes in our hearts. Know that they will always be with us, that we shall rejoin them at journey's end.
"Farewell D'Langell, Valission, Sternwinter, Tekka Waverock, Gelpas and Harkan Arthad. Your path now leads you from this realm to the realms beyond. May you find joy and peace in the light."
Danifae looked to the west, where the last rays of sunlight had faded, as the fallen were sent to their final resting places in the sea.
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From the GM - Journey's End
Distance from Sasserine : 2,815 miles
Distance from the Storm:150 miles
Time from the Storm: 4 days
As the grey dawn breaks, burning fitfully through the morning fog to light the sea, something seems strange about the waters below. They seem almost solid, as if the sea had formed so me strange sort of skin. The air seems dead as well, and the sails hang limp, heavy with moisture from the receding fog.
Finally, the mist begins to clear, and what is unveiled is not the gently rolling vista of the sea but a wet green field of weed. The swath of dirty green stretches flatly in all directions. To the stern, it extends for perhaps a half mile, beyond which lie the open waters of the mocking sea. In all other directions, the weed extends to the horizon.
Trapped within its vice are dozens of other long-dead ships, their hulls protruding from the sargasso at odd angles, masts askew, sails hanging in tatters. One such ship lies mired only six hundred feet to the port, and it seems to be in better shape than the others.
Perhaps most unnerving, however, is neither the sight nor smell of so much sun-baked seaweed. It is the unnatural Silence, for the thick choking green has robbed the Sea Wyvern even of the strangely comforting sound of water lapping against her hull. It is not a healthy silence. It is the silence of a graveyard.
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Ishmael - The Funeral
After the funeral, Deranthil walks up to the ships prelate and gently places a hand on her shoulder. In the sylvan tongue he says, "Well done, Dark One. I know those words can't have come easily."
Deranthil then finds himself a quiet perch on the deck to collect his thoughts.He can't help but feel responsible for the deaths of all these people:
"They trusted us," He thinks to himself, "They believed we could protect them. We put them in harm's way and we failed them. we have lost so many! Poor Newt, to think we almost lost him as well. So young - too young to be exposed to such grief and torment. Thank the gods he survived. I feel I have cheated them. I was given a second chance and yet, I would surrender it all to bring them back, to take it all back and have these events never happen.
"Folks would say they all knew the risks. Sea voyages are dangerous, but did they really think this would be the kind of thing they would face? Multi-headed beasts and monsters of the deep whose only purpose is to devour and destroy? Who can prepare them for that? No, no, this is not what these farmers and family folk signed on for. Not by a long shot.
"We, the Wyverns, the Ravens, we know the evil that keeps us awake at night. We know the fiends that lie beyond the comfort of the city gates. That is why we fight. That is why these farmers seek us out. That is why they follow. They believe we can protect them. They give us the very shirt from their backs, and the only calf from their fields because they believe we are worth it.
"And yet, we have let so many fall. Are the Wyverns worth all this? Is Farshore? Is it really? It has to be - now - otherwise all this has been for naught. I swear it - we... all I have sworn to protect will reach Farshore alive."
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Zacote - Thar be monsters!
Zacote gestures towards the small assembly of goods on the beach.
"We have recovered a small amount of equipment from the wreck captain. Some may be of assistance on the trek to Farshore, some not so useful."
"As far as provisions, we have Chortle's ration bars. These should be enough to feed the group for 6 days, though they aren't the greatest fare. We also have enough fresh food to feed half of us for one day only. I suggest that we eat this now before departing, as it has been a long night and most of us have had little chance to eat for some time.
"If everyone's abandon-ship kits are intact, we should all have one water bottle. Fresh water shouldn't be too hard to find once we leave the beach. But we should wait until we find a stream before drinking what we have if possible. I strongly suggest no one drinks from any ponds, streams or other water until Deranthil or myself gives the go ahead. Some streams may be fouled and water that may seem sweet and cool now can make a strong man sick and weak within hours.
"As far as other goods go, everyone should have a sack and any other equipment they grabbed before leaving, so we should have no trouble carrying personal supplies.
"We have also recovered two high-quality crossbows and ten bolts, a quarterstaff, a lantern with one pint of oil, around one hundred feet of rope, and of course "Lord" Merivanchi's tack and saddle. I can't say the last item will be much good at the moment, but the saddlebags may be useful for carrying extra equipment."
"We also have the two sea chests from the Wyvern. I strongly recommend we leave these here captain. They are only going to slow us down more than we need."
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Ishmael - Thar be monsters!
Prior to leaving the beach, Deranthil gathers all the castaways together and gives the following brief:
"Fellow Castaways, listen up! We have been shipwrecked here on the north eastern shore of The Isle of Dread with Farshore some ten days travel from here.
My mission is to safely deliver all who were travelers aboard the Sea Wyvern to Farshore. In order to do so, I provide you with the following instructions:
A scout party consisting of Strom, Deranthil and Zacote will move ahead of the main party in order to choose the best path through the jungle. This will be the path that avoids predators and provides the easiest and quickest path. The main party moves only on direction from the scout party, once the scout party has cleared the trail ahead.
The main party will consist of all other members and will remain at least 100 yards clear of the scout party. They will carry all stores as directed by the Captain. All members are to carry as little as necessary, as it is imperative we move quickly through this unfriendly territory.
We will utilise game trails, as these give us the better chance of detecting not only prey, but water as well. It will also give us a greater chance of encountering predators, as they use the game trails for the same reasons we do, so caution is advised.
At the approach of dusk, a suitable campsite, away from the game trails will be selected and the entire party will rest. Watch routines will be run in accordance with direction from the Captain and the First Mate. No fires will be lit, as the smell of cooking and the sighting of smoke can attract the attention of predators. Also, it will detract from the night vision of the watchmen. All members must be ready to break camp at a moment's notice, so the minimum of stores are to be opened and used in the campsite. Upon breaking camp, all gear is to be taken with the group – we leave nothing behind.
These beasts hunt by smell – the more we leave behind, the more of our scent they acquire. Each buddy is to check their partner and ensure they are present, and have complied with instruction. Senior Wyverns are to police this.
All members have been supplied with a signal whistle and mirror. If for any reason, you become separated from the main party, or you spot a hazard, use these to best advantage. When you are separated, STAY WHERE YOU ARE! We will find you.
I am in overall command of this operation and will take charge of the Scouting party. Captain Mitch is in charge of the main party. Each member will be assigned a buddy for whom they are responsible at all times. Each member is to know the whereabouts and physical condition of their buddy. All injuries or loss of condition is to be reported to a healer or an officer the moment it is detected. The heat and terrain in this area is taxing and can sap a man's strength quicker than he can blink. Be careful. The buddy is to ensure that their companion complies with all directions given by a senior member of ship's crew.
Each member carries their personal kit plus equipment and stores assigned by Captain Mitch. We travel light, we travel fast. Make no mistake good folk, this is dangerous country. I'll not spend more time out here than I have to. Listen to what I tell you and you will survive this place. Now, if there are no questions, let's get moving. The sooner we are underway, the sooner we get to warm, dry beds and a decent brew in Farshore. Anything to add, Captain?