The Forge of War

[Ghost49X]

The forge of war
The date is Ayrth 13, 993YK
As cold blankets the land no rain has fallen in over a week, this is a dire omen indeed. Rumors of soothsayers gone mad abound, Stories tell of a traveling fortune reader who clawed her eyes out and ran screaming into the night never to be seen again; of a diviner in the city of towers who jumped out of a window plunging to his death after catching a glimpse of something unknown.
Meanwhile the war goes on.
As thousands clash in the east over Khorvaire, Breland's alliance with Thrane stands strong. Both countries are mustering their forces for a joint invasion of Cyr. As recruitment offices in Sharn and Wroat redouble their efforts, recruitment wagons cross the country stopping at villages looking for able bodies and sharp minds. House Deneith opens its doors wide as new contingents of mercenairies are made ready for hire by all who can pay the price.


Please discribe yourself as one of the following
-Arriving at a recruitment center in a major city
-A recruitment wagon attracts your attention in your village square
-Arriving in a Deneith enclave and introducing yourself to your fellow mercenaries
-Those from Dragonmarked houses I have a different start for in mind so please wait out abit, this doesn't count for Aberant marks, house Deneith also conducts full examinations of potentional mercs so hiding your mark would be next to impossible.
-Warforge have already been bought and will likely enter at the same time as the dragonmarked houses

[Hazzardevil]

Arriving in a Deneith enclave and introducing yourself to your fellow mercenaries

Vale wanders into the Deneith enclave, keeping to himself and holding himself high, confident of his superiority of the other mercenaries around him.

He avoids eye contact with the people he moves past, avoiding them where they half-block entrances into buildings.

[Postmodernist]

Romulus Steelpaw, Shifter Swordsage

A large, feral form stepped out of the darkness and into the Deneith camp, shadows seemingly coalescing about it. It finally arrived at the bonfire at the center of the bivouac, and revealed itself as a wiry and particularly unkempt Shifter. Though he had no weapons in his possession, he carried himself as though he were still armed. He presented himself to the recruitment officer, and addressed him gruffly.

"I am Romulus Steelpaw of the Eldeen Reaches. I have survived forty-six days in the wilderness alone, evading Karnnathi patrols. I offer my services as a warrior and scout in exchange for food, lodging, and whatever it is you're paying sellswords at the moment. I'm worth the investment, and I'll happy provide a demonstration," he snarled, casting a glance at the overconfident Valenar Elf he'd followed into camp from a safe stalking distance.

[Ghost49X]

Vale passes by several mercenaries holding idle chatter, few see him and most ignore him. This is not the case of a shadow, leaning against the far wall his eyes track the movement of the newcomer. Slowly the shadow makes his way across the camp stalking Vale until he is within arms reach. With a poke of rapier scabard he murmurs "Are you looking for work? If so you should meet our captain" He nods helpfully towards a man sitting underneath a tent with an open wall intently working on a large pile of paperwork.

As Romulus announces himself then captain looks up for a bare moment before returning to his paperwork. "How many times must we say that we don't hire on the march" after a pause "well unless the need is dire." He takes a sip from his drink "Here's what, we are marching towards Wroat where the king has requested this company of fine men be hired. Though I am afraid we can't pay you during the trip, I'm sure we can find you some employment once we reach our destination. Until then I'll see to it that you are fed and sheltered." He looks past Romulus to a Valenar Elf speaking to a man with an unkept beard and leather armor "Is he your friend or are you really asking for a duel? Nether the less the offer stands for him aswell."

[Madara]

Korisis Haskal d'Sivis,Artificer Gnome

An excited Gnome climbs ontop the railing of the Fool's Dream. He twirls his Green Bowtie as he hollers into the wind. Normally he is well composed, and represents the professionalism of his House with Pride, but the excitement of the airship gets the best of him.

Despite his lack of experience, he has been hired as chief engineer for this Airship, a job that allows him to gather a large amount of information in his travels. Upkeep isn't exactly his thing, he hopes to someday design grand items rather than repair the ones someone else made. Kor walks across the deck and heads below to go make his usually checks. He stops to talk to the first mate, and a few of the other crew members. "Where are we headed to right now? Can you give me an estimate on how much time before we land? The engines are holding up fine, and the elementals seem alright but I noticed we're running a bit low on supplies." Up close you'll notice that he well-dressed status has been running a bit low on the upkeep since he's been working with his hands. While he's still very well dressed, his cloths are a mixture of practical leather for working with the machines and magic and his suit and tie keeping him in a suprisingly good appearance for an adventurer of sorts. This is one of the few times he's come above deck during this trip, he's been busy below deck most of the time.

[hoverfrog]

Ashayan d'Lyrandar

Service aboard the Fool's Dream was good even though it had taken him from the war and his vengeance. He wondered if his father had been involved in his sudden transfer from Boranel's Blessing and promotion to first mate. First mate, he could hardly believe it. Some of the crew were sea dogs and sky wolves of a hundred summers, far more experienced than he. Ashayan had charmed them and spun the story that they were the very best crew to keep a green boy like him from making too big an gull of himself. It wasn't even a lie which made it all the sweeter.

Still shipping scrolls from Sharn to Vathirond, huge crates of scrolls for magewrights to use in the war, wasn't getting Ash into the action. It had it's compensations though. The Lady Beatrice ir'Rond had been most fearful for his safety when they left the keep along the Brey. She had given him a wonderful brooch of pale sapphire paired with a wand topped with a matching stone when he'd left. Gifts and tears that he'd kissed away on their last night together.

They were heading back to Sharn and Ashayan wasn't on duty. He liked to spend his time near the elemental though technically the elemental was everywhere on the ship and around it. He could almost feel the creature as its consciousness, if you could call it that, stretched out across the airship. It seemed calmer when he played to it too.

The new artificer, Korisis Haskal d'Sivis, stopped to ask him some questions. He followed the gnome up to the top desk, "Captain has her course set for Sharn at the moment though we're low on trade goods. We deliver to Vathirond but there's not much to bring back with us except wounded and prisoners and m'lady Captain doesn't like to sully her hold with things that don't turn a profit. We may well call at Wroat on the way. Sorry I can't give you a better answer but she keeps her own council. A habit of secrecy, is what she says.

Leaving the gnome with an elegant bow Ashayan skipped up the gunwale to the steering ring. "Morning Captain. Fool's Dream is purring like a kitten, that new artificer knows his stuff. The crew is content though we ran out of fresh greens last night and cook says we'll have to stop to resupply or we'll be eating salt pork and pickle for the rest of the journey. What are your orders?"

[Madara]

Korisis Haskal d'Sivis,Artificer Gnome

The Gnome smiles when he hears "Secrecy". He goes back down to the lowest hold and rolls up his sleeve. Sometimes he just likes to stare at it. Its just incredible. To think that think allows me to use the power of words with such ease...

The pulsing dragonmark feels cool against his neck, he finds no comfort in that however, because he knows that if he uses it, he will feel a hot, burning sensation. The Gnome thinks about his House's history. He is always amazed by the positive approach his house had towards the other Dragonmarks, and how all of his house does their best to further the goals of their society.

Kor has never been to Sharn, but he's read and heard much about it. Something comes across to him, that he heard something about the city being one of the places least touched by the war. Kor walks around, and can almost hear the Elemental from down there. He has a thought, he wonders if elementals need to be bound to large vehicles, or if he might be able to bind one to a smaller craft. The Gnome pulls out his small notepad and writes Elemental, Ship, Small. He sticks to key words because if someone were to take his notepad, they'd have all his ideas.

[Hazzardevil]

Vale looks at the Romulus and then the captain.
I was not brought here to be an example for this mans skills in combat, I will duel him if he wants to demonstrate his skills, but I believe a mans true skills are tested on the field of battle, not in a tent with people watching.

I am also here to sign up as a mercenary though.

He then looks back to Romulus.
What shall the rules for this duel be then? First blood or non-lethal combat?

[Postmodernist]

Romulus Steelpaw, Shifter Swordsage

A vicious grin spreads across Romulus' face as the haughty elf accepts his challenge. He cracks his knuckles with eager anticipation. I didn't think you'd accept, little elf. I'm pleased that you have, though. I suggest that we avoid drawing too much blood. We may be fighting on the same side, after all. Although if you'd like to draw that pretty blade of yours," he sneers, nodding toward Vale's handsome double-bladed Valenar scimitar, "I'd face you just the same. Practitioners of the Shadow Tiger style fear neither sword nor claw." Romulus smiles wide, his canines bright and sharp, nearly glittering in the firelight.

He bows to his opponent and comfortably enters a low stance. Shadows seem to whorl about his body, almost supernaturally embracing him, though onlookers assume that it must merely be a trick of the twilit campfire. "I am ready when you are."

[Hazzardevil]

I'm not a little Elf, Shifter, I am the heir to a long line of elves who have fought with this scimitar for as long as it has been in my family. He then Draws his Double-bladed scimitar.
And I'd rather not draw too much of your blood, it would make such a mess on this nice mans desk, where I'm sure someone would have to clean it up, not to mention me not showing restraint wouldn't look good on me before I've fought once for this company.
He pauses for a moment.
You showing restraint is something I have to see, the werewolf doesn't choose when to bite his victim, I doubt a werewolves descendant will have any better control over his combat.

[Ghost49X]

Captain Merill, Ash and Korisis

Captain Merill d'Lyandar Motions for both First Mate Ashayan and Chief Korisis to join her at the helm.
"Welcome to the Fool" she smiles, then looks at Ash "There is something you should know about myself and this ship. Many years ago before ships sailed through the skies I took an adventurer on a voyage to Xen'drik, along the way we were ambushed by pirates and sauhagin alike and I owe my life and my ship to this man many times over for I have yet to see such valor and bravery. Believe it or not this man was non-other than the Prince now King of Breland. I have been looking for any reason to lend my help to his cause and it is only recently that I have been give the opportunity to do so. You see King Boranel has commissioned the construction of a fleet of airships and the Fool is one such vessel, so we fly to Wroat where we will find ourselves in a more... intimate relation with the war. Of course the neutrality of house Lyrandar in this war must never come to question. My Last first Mate was killed not too long ago and nether Legg nor Bronn wanted the headache that comes with responsibility. Your name also came with good recommendation from Captain Blackeye an old friend of mine." Shifting over to Korisis "You on the other hand I did not have much of a choice, you see having a Zilgaro artificer for engineer was part of the deals and politics involved with the commission of this airship. Though they told me they didn't have anyone of experience available, they also promised me I wouldn't be disappointed."

Captain Wes, Romulus and Vale
With a look that knows trouble when he sees it, he waves "If you are going to duel, do so outside my camp. We arrive in Wroat tomorrow, be ready to march at dawn"

Lieutenant Kassad d'Deneith and Captain Emer
In a windowless room at the top floor of the Deneith enclave in Wroat recently promoted Lieutenant Kassad d'Deneith has been called before his superior officer, a gruff Captain veteran of many battles left him with a hard look that never leaves his eyes.
"Come in and introduce yourself Lieutenant" He quickly signs and seals a scroll before putting it aside. Before Kassad has had time to say anything he starts up again "Close the door. I don't know many people with enough political clout to make officer with without some field experience and I hope the men under your command don't regret that fact." after a short pause, and again before Kassad has had time to say a word "On the other hand, this is the opportunity of a lifetime, do good and you might even make grand marshal one day, Screw up and a dark corner of hell will be your life assignment where no political clout will save you." Captain Emer scrowls and lets out a raspy cough that finally gives Kassad an opportunity to say a word.

[hoverfrog]

Ashayan d'Lyrandar

"Thank you for the opportunity, captain" Ashayan had been concerned that his fighting days were done, "I don't doubt that the chief engineer knows how to keep a secret and to follow orders."

He fetches a map of Breland from the rack behind the helm and weighs it down with daggers. "We're here," indicating their present position, "and Wroat is here. Do we need to coax more speed from the elemental to reach get there on schedule? Is our arrival to avoid notice?"

[Postmodernist]

Romulus Steelpaw, Shifter Swordsage

The shifter growled in response to the elf's retort, and then crouched further into his stance. Now onlookers were certain that something unusual was afoot, as darkness began to swirl over his form and dance around him. He then dashed toward his sparring partner, leaping over the campfire and striking out with a vicious flying kick.

Swift action: Child of Shadow stance. Attacks against Romulus have a 20% miss chance from concealment. Full-round: charge.
[roll0] Damage: [roll1]

[Hazzardevil]

Vale smirks and then speaks to Romulus again.

I win Shifter.
He then strikes once two-handed with an end of his scimitar and then strikes his the palm of each hand.
He stops attacking if one of them hits.
Scimitar Attack:
[roll0]
Damage:
[roll1]
Crit Confirm:
[roll2]
Miss Chance:
I presume I need to roll 20 or less for a hit.
[roll3]

Unarmed Attack:
[roll4]
Damage:
[roll5]
Crit Confirm:
[roll6]
Miss Chance:
[roll7]

Unarmed Attack:
[roll8]
Damage:
[roll9]
Crit Confirm:
[roll10]
Miss Chance:
[roll11]

[Postmodernist]

Romulus

The shifter grit his teeth as the blade whirled past, catching hold of his sleeve and shearing through the fabric. His occluded steps caused the follow-up strike to miss, unexpectedly coming from the elf's open hand. A rictus of a smile spread across Romulus' face, as he intoned, "You're better than I expected, but it won't help you." As his hand flashed out, a shadowy double of his hand follows close behind.

Shadow Blade technique:
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3] Cold damage if both strikes hit
Ability explanation:
If you use the higher die result, resolve your attack as normal. (Your mystic double misses, but your true attack might hit.) If you use the lower die result, or if both die results are the same, your attack deals an extra 1d6 points of cold damage as both the mystic double’s attack and your true weapon strike home.
This maneuver is a supernatural ability.

[Roguenewb]

Kassad Denieth

"I don't know what you've...heard Emer, but true sons of house Denieth..." Kassad starts, before stopping for a second as his thoughts fracture no true son, no true son, no true son, and he barely manages to link his thoughts back together. "Know their way around a battlefield. I am no simple political appointment. I am a trained battlefield commander from the long tradition of house Denieth. I know how to take orders, but you need to trust that I can handle your orders, and give my own." Kassad finishes strong, allowing pride to flow out of his voice.

too bad I'm no more true Denieth than I am true warforged...

[Madara]

Korisis Haskal d'Sivis: Artificer Gnome

Kor asked the captain, "Sir, may I request permission to study the liquid ballista bolts further? I'd like to familiarize myself with the weapondry of the ship in addition to its basic flight mechanics. As you said, I don't have a lot of experience, so I'd like to put it plenty of study to make up for the fact."

Assuming the captain said yes,


The gnome heads down below deck to get his equipment: a flask, some tongs, leather gloves, a mask, and a metal board to place the liquid bolts on. With the equipment in tow, he heads to the hold and collects a small sample (enough for 1 shot, probably 1 ounce?). Then he brings the sample to his lab to begin study.

First, he needs to determine if the liquid holds some sort of shape, dependent on the fact that it seems to be metallic. He pours a few drops onto the board, and observes if it spreads quickly or retains a vague droplet shape.

Second, he pulls out a fine black thread and uses the Skill Enhancement Infusion on this liquid to grant him a +2 Circumstance bonus to Knowledge(Arcana) for 10 minutes, enough time to study the liquid some more.

Finally, with preparations made, his studys the liquid and compares it to other items, along with the texts and information he owns and remembers from his schooling.
Knowledge(Arcana): Taking 20 for a total of 30.

[Hazzardevil]

Your magic won't help you either Shifter, it just lets you have a flaming sword when you miss me.

He then attacks again.

Scimitar Attack:
[roll0]
Damage:
[roll1]
Crit Confirm:
[roll2]
Miss Chance:
I presume I need to roll 20 or less for a hit.
[roll3]

Unarmed Attack:
[roll4]
Damage:
[roll5]
Crit Confirm:
[roll6]
Miss Chance:
[roll7]

[Postmodernist]

The shifter laughed as the elf repeated the same series of strikes, missing him once again. "Flaming sword? Have you been paying attention? I'm not even armed. Here, allow me to demonstrate." With that, he grabbed the elf's arm as the strike overreached. Romulus turned inward toward the blow and the elf, slinging his arm across his shoulder and digging his hip into his opponent, employing his leverage to execute a throw.

Mighty Throw, using Dex for a trip attempt: Touch attack [roll0] Opposed grapple check: [roll1] If successful, Vale is thrown 10 feet away and lands prone. We'll roleplay the consequences afterward.

As the two continue to tussle, one of the lieutenants approaches and barks out at them, "That's enough! Any more of that and you'll be restrained. Your House Deneith mercenaries now!" Romulus smiles and extends a hand to the elven warrior. "Well fought, comrade, but you should keep training. Let's call it a draw, shall we?"

[Ghost49X]

Captain Meryll and Ash aboard the Fools Dream.
"Tell me Ash, you don't happen to have the do you? If you do I could let you steer, You see there may be cases where I might not be fit to steer and should that happen I rather you have a bit of experience, eh? There's no worry I won't
report back to the old coots in stormhome unless you want me to, as far as I'm considered they can keep their polibickering while I sail the skies freely."

Captain Meryll and Korisis,
"Um' the bolts? Yes, sure go ahead, just keep in mind they are valuable and quite volatile."

[Ghost49X]

Wroat Lightning rail station, Early morning train
The sun had barely risen when Xeres d'Cannith was dressed and ready for a long day, the first of today's tasks was the supervision and accounting of Breland's lastest order of weapons and other wargear. The King himself wanted to inspect the goods later that day so Xeres had to make sure all was in order, afterall Breland was one of Cannith's best customers.

Dock workers busy unloading the freight largely ignored him as he watch a giant primitive construct lifting the bigger crates. A half-elf tapped him on the shoulder waking him from some distracting thought
"You are d'Cannith? Sign this scroll to confirm your order has arrived." Xeres looked at the man
"I wish to inspect the goods first." Xeres said as he started to walk towards one of the bigger crates, then he turned halfway "If you don't mind?"

At the crate Xeres took out a small golden key with the gorgon emblem of d'Cannith and tapped the crate lightly, standing aside as the magic of the key worked the wards on holding the cargo safe. After half a count the wall of the crate twisted free and fell over. Inside three dozen warforged sat hunched over, stacked three tall, as one would stack swords on a sword rack. Xeres took the time to admire the design, Baron Merrix's latest design. Deadly works of art clad in adamantium, the world's hardest metal. "Attention warforge! Get out of the crate in orderly fashion and assemble in 3 ranks, afterwards await my orders." as the living constructs started moving, slowly at first but faster as more room was made available. Xeres looked at the crate, he guessed they could've fit around 10 humanoids in that space and smiled as he apreciated the efficiency of it all. Then he made his way towards the other crates, half-elf in tow.

Kassad Deneith and Captain Emer
"You can start by calling me Captain, Lieutenant. Now conserning your assignment; fresh mercenairies will arive this morning I will meet them at the gate and take command, you are to be my 2nd in command. This afternoon we are to be presented to the king so make sure your arms and armor is polished bright, we need to make an example of the professionalism of house Deneith. Oh and how good are you in free fall?"

Vale, Romulus and the Deneith mercenaires
Wroat comes into view soon after breaking camp and they make it to the gate mid morning. As they come up to the gates they see 2 men both waiting, one man holding a standard with the chimaera of house Deneith.
As they approch the man not holding the banner steps forward and addresses Captain Wes
"I am Captain Emer and this is Lieutenant Kassad, I trust you are Captain Wes? The recruitment officer?"
"That I am" Captain Wes replied "and these are men are now under your charge." He then turns around
towards a silent man with a rapier "Lieutenant Alphonse, make sure the new guys don't cause trouble"
Captain Emer looks at the travel weary mercs "Come with me to enclave, you have a parade this afternoon"
he turns around and marches off leaving the weary mercs to groan.

The Fool's Dream, Late morning
After Wroat is finally sighted by Bronn, the Captain comes out from her cabin to look through a spy glass "Yes, Keep her steady Ash" she goes back to the helm "You're doing fine, but I think it's a little early for you to try landing just yet. Go and get the crew ready"

Behind the palace in the royal gardens, Later that day
The King's Swords stood still in full parad dress as his majesty King Boranel ir'Wynarn spoke from atop stairs beside a war monument, dedicated Breland's best and finest entitled 'missing friends' citizens of Wroat stood off to the side eager to hear their King speak. Seven airships hovered close to the ground behind the monument, their crew looking on curiously.

"Long has this war raged and long has it cost us dear.
many of our friends and family will not see it end, to no fault of their own they leave us the torch to carry on, in the hopes that they did not die in vain. On this day we welcome new brothers to join us in our fight. Mistake me not, though they may look like machines, they have hearts and wills as strong as any patriot for from this day on Breland is also their homeland.
I couldn't give them less, for what we ask is for them to carry the torch of hope alongside our brothers of flesh and blood. Many people grow weary of the war, for it is all they have ever known, I for one agree. It is high time that we deal a devastating blow to our enemies and end this war, on this eve we move to join our allies and crush Cyr taking them out of the war once and for all. Both Karnath and Aundair are exhausted and nether can oppose our alliance once Cyr has been dealt with. I give you my word, before I leave this world Breland will know peace." As soon as the king ends his speech the a roars from the crowd fills the air in support of the King until he raises his hands. "This crucial assault will be lead by no other than Breland's most capable warrior, here standing beside me my own daughter Princess Borran. Our recently aquired airships will fly them to victory. But before they set off I would like to present our soldiers with a small token." As the soldiers get called to the front in groups, royal artificers afix a pair of golden wings on each left arm. When done they march off towards the airships behind them. First the King's Swords then the Warforge and the King's Wands and the mercenaires last.

[Madara]

Korisis Haskal d'Sivis: Artificer Gnome

Kor makes sure to gather his scrolls, placing them across his chest(Rambo-style). On each side of his belt, he places one of the wands, with the Cure light & Magic Missile on his left side for easier acccess. He has written down all his research twice, one copy for his family and house, and one for himself. His personal copy is inside his small notebook in the inner pocket of his suitcoat. The other copy is in his bag, so he can send it via his House's message system.

Once he is packed to leave the ship, he makes one more rounds to look for damage on the ship. The voyage didn't have any combat, nor any obvious means of damaging the ship, so it seems alright. He greeted the Half-Elf, and wasn't suprised to see him steering this morning. That boy has a lot of talent. Kor whistles as he finishes his rounds and then returns to deck, having returned his sample of liquid amunition to the hold.
Were we at the ceremony? I couldn't tell

[Roguenewb]

Kassad Denieth

Kassad stiffens at Emer's remarks. "Yes captain, that's more like it." Let's just hope he's not too observant... Kassad thinks, with a growing sense of unease. "I've never been in freefall captain, but I'll stand fast before whatever comes." Kassad says, trying to hold down any sensations borne from mental instability.

From the moment Kassad and Emer recieve the new troops, Kassad moves through the ranks playing good lieutenant to Emer's more severe position. He makes sure every mercenary is in spit-shine and good polish. His own gear, as would be expected from a noble soldier yet to hit the front, is in impeccable shape. His breastplate shines, every link in the chainmail beneath it is in perfect shape and well oiled. All his leather elements are new and well blacked, and he looks every inch the noble-born Denieth field commander. As he moves through the group, he tries to impress them and develop a repor, using a diplomacy check, [roll0]

He listens to the speech by Boranel, unimpressed. Men fight and men die, and I don't care why. Kassad stands at attention easily, no matter how little he cares. It's a skill he learned years ago in his father's house, a denieth heir who can't listen to a speech is worth nothing.

After the ceremony, he goes through all the mercs, making careful note of everyone. Finally, as the ship is in motion, while the mercs finish a meal he announces to the room, "For those of you who don't remember, I am Lieutenant Kassad Denieth, and I'm your XO. Now, you're going to want to come to me with your problems and issues, Captain Emer has bigger things to worry about than your problems. I suggest you come to me as soon as you have a moment, and we get to know each other all a little better. Carry on, men." Kassad says, trying to apply all the lectures provided him in training back in his long years learning the art of battle leadership.

Here's hoping I don't get them killed, or worse, lose it and kill them.

[Madara]

Korisis Haskal d'Sivis: Artificer Gnome

Kor notices the men climbing aboard the ship and figures that they'll be settling before the ship sets off, so he has some time. While on deck, he observes Lt. Kassad Denieth. The gnome is unsure of how ranks will work on ship. As Engineer, he's likely of an equivelent rank, not that he cares. The Gnome walks up to meet this new arrival, "Eun ahev ur Siven, ka ur Siven om eheves e Gnome." he says in Gnome, then translates "You have my Words, and my Words are that of a Gnome." This phrase may be known as one of the greatest gnomish vows, and to a gnome all words are sacred. Most cultured people would be aware of the strength of vow the Gnome was making.

He takes a short pause, then makes a half-bow out of respect, but showing that he feels they are equals. Then he says, "I am Korisis Haskal d'Sivis, Engineer of the Fool's Dream, and Employee of the House of Sivis. I am glad to make your aquantance, Leiutenant. If you'd like, later I can show you a bit more about the ship, since I assume you'll want to know its combat-readyness and overall capabilities." He looks unmarked, but he's from House Denieth so I can expect professionalism. The gnome smiles and adjusts his dark-red bowtie which he picked out just for today. He isn't wearing his leathers, so he looks rather overdressed compared to the battle-ready soldiers.

[Roguenewb]

Kassad Denieth

Kassad jumps a bit when the gnome first speaks. He hadn't been paying attention. Instead he was focusing on suppressing a wave of mental instability, all flowing vision and swirling noises.

"A gnome? Oh, excuse me. Yes, of course, it's nice to meet you too, Korisis was it?" Kassad stands up formally, and holds out his gauntlet-ed right hand to the little gnome. "I'd be glad to get a tour of this fine airship. It's not really my job to do strategy, but I'm sure there's something useful to be learned. I've ridden airships before, but never served on one, I'm more than a little concerned about fighting on one, so maybe a tour is exactly what the apothecary ordered." Kassad says to the gnome. His speech is a little over-eager, trying to hide how distracted and out of sorts he was earlier.

[Madara]

Korisis Haskal d'Sivis: Artificer Gnome

The gnome, being a master of speech and language(at least compared to layfolk) tries to figure out if Kassad was hiding anything. While the Gnome doesn't plan on exposing anyone, nor does he have problems with people who have problems, he likes to have information on everyone.


Sense Motive:[roll0]
I realized I have no modifiers for this check :smallsigh:


"So, what family are you from within your House? I'm from the Haskals, we're not the most famous, but we're known for our focus on magic items. Have you been in this war for a long time? I joined as part of the alliance between Zilargo and Breland. I should let you know, that my House has given me specific instructions to avoid direct combat unless necessary. We're supplying Artificers, Information, and our message system, but not actual soldiers. Our coutry prefers not to lose its people to senseless violence."

[Roguenewb]

Kassad Denieth

"Uh, well, it's a bit looser in House Denieth. We have more than our fair share of orphaned sons and parents of dead sons, so if you have marked parents, you simply default to the 'Denieth' line of the house. Both mine are marked, so I'm simply a Denieth. I think my sons will be still be Denieths, but if they are unmarked like me" Kassad's eyes go momentarily wide liar liar liar liar liar liar liar liar... before he manages to suppress it and return to his topic of conversation, "then they'd default to being Makkertons, if I recall all my bloodlines properly. " Sensing how dry the topic is, Kassad tries to force a bit of levity there at the end.

[Madara]

Korisis Haskal d'Sivis: Artificer Gnome

"Interesting, our House usually keeps even the unmarked as part of the house. I suppose part of that is because we've been around longer." The Gnome is distracted for a moment by something in the coner of his eye...
"IS THAT A WARFORGED?!" Kor becomes suprisingly excited compared to his calm manner a few seconds ago as he runs over to Still. "Wow," he says as he shakes the Warforged's hand, "are you a new model? Where are you from? I know that Warforged are created like constructs, but you are certainly as humanoid as any of us. What did it feel like when you first came out of the forge? What is your combat specialty? Would it be alright if I drew a scetch of you? What's your name? Do you have one? Can I name you?" The words sputter out of the Gnome before he regains his composure. He calms down, but stands in a manner that shows he is expecting responses.

[hoverfrog]

Ashayan Lovain d'Lyrandar

Ashayan shakes his head and steps back from the wheel. "She's difficult to control captain. I can't connect my mind with the elemental through the wheel of wind and water but I can almost sense its presence. It is my fervent wish one day to manifest the wind's favour ability but as yet I have no such skill."

Formally he passes command to the captain. "I stand relieved." Relaxing Ash looks out of the wheelhouse and smiles, "Time to introduce myself to our passengers."

He makes his way along the desks introducing himself to all the new faces. Start with someone I know he thinks to himself and heads over to where Korisis is talking to a mercenary lieutenant and a warforged soldier. "Good day, Kor, how's the Dream holding up with all our new visitors? Won't you introduce me to your new acquaintance. He turns to the Denieth mercenary leader and holds out his hand, "I'm the first mate, Ashayan Lovain d'Lyrandar, most people call me Ash but 'mate' is sufficient in an emergency. We're a little short handed as you can probably see. Can any of your men operate the ships weapons at a pinch?"

"We should work out an order of command I suppose. Don't worry we're a flexible bunch in House Lyrandar. The captain's word is law on board for everyone. I command the crew. Kor is in charge of the elemental chamber and his workshop, even Captain Meryll defers to our gnomish engineer there," he laughs softly at the joke, "We have no formal command over your men of course but don't be surprised if anyone found lollygagging is given a mop or a rope and put to work. I'd appreciate it if your men stay clear of the wheel house and the elemental chamber, you'll find both warded, and out of cook's stores and the armoury. Rooms have been assigned but there aren't enough for all your men. Some can bunk with the crew, we have hammocks for thirty, but more than that will have to sleep on deck or in gangways. If anyone suffers from vertigo then keep them below decks, it's a long way down. If anyone has motion sickness tell them to check the direction of the wind before running to a rail. Few things are worse on a ship than bringing up your breakfast and finding it picked up by the wind and flung back in your face."

He turns to indicate the warforged that Korisis is gushing over, "Your weapons should remain stowed but ready," something about these metal and wooden soldiers was worrying. A person is bought into the world and brought up to find a place within it. You don't just build a man and set him to work. "Now, lieutenant, what say we give you that tour and you can introduce your men?"

[Escheton]

"Still", Warforged Magehunter

As the small man in formal attire spews forth his barrage of questions Still examines him and contemplates what he knows of gnomes. Which isn't much. Oddly though he does know their tongue. Maybe some of the workers's words fell into the forge at ones creation.
Also did he consider himself, and his place. Both social-military and geographically.

When he was about to speak, moments before the gnome might start to consider him a mute, he was interrupted by a half-elven crew-member of the ship. One who seems to have a preference for stating the obvious.

As he and the Deneith officer walked off Still looked around to see who was in command and as such who would permit or deny him to speak. Seeing none other than the gnome and his brethren he began to speak, in gnomish: "Good day, sir. Yes, from the adamantine plated line. We hail from the House Cannith Forge of course, sir.
It felt cold and daunting. The world and a lifetime stretched before one.
My combat specialty is sword and shield. To better withstand the warriors as I close in on the mages.
Sketch me if you will, it is not my call to make.
Name.....One has not been personally addressed before other than with orders. Which does not require a name. You may address one as you see fit, sir."
Once done answering the gnome's questions he returns to his previous blank stared composure.

[Postmodernist]

Romulus, Shifter Swordsage

Romulus rolls his eyes as the king launches into his speech. "Pretty tokens and medals don't win wars, nor do words and parades. How about his majesty actually giving us something to fight for? I'd be willing to die for a chance with that princess, eh? A small private duel, some unarmed single combat, if you catch my drift," he quips, trying to get a chuckle from his fellow mercenaries. "I could care less about Brelish brotherhood or the vaunted honor of these tin men. I'm interested in when we get paid." He utters a low growl and spits on the ground, awaiting orders with the rest of the mercenaries.

[Madara]

Korisis Haskal d'Sivis: Artificer Gnome

Kor is quite glad that the warforged answered his questions, and he writes a memo to himself to sketch the warforge later. In additon, he finds himself quite pleased by the prospect of giving someone, or something a name. So, he decides to write himself a memo to work on that as well.

When Ash approaches, the Gnome indroduces him, finding the Half-Elf and the Denith man quite similar in personality. "The Fool's Dream is quite the ship, she'll be just find even with this much cargo. That reminds me, at some point I might like to have an assistant. I don't really need one at this point, but it would be nice to have some help in the lab."

Kor then waits for the Lt. to spend a little more time with his men before giving him a tour. He goes through almost the whole ship, except his own room. This tour involves showing emergency escape routes, important tactical notes, some fun facts, and even a few akward moments, as the Gnome doesn't always knock. The Gnome answers most questions, except any about how the elemental is bound. When all is said and done, the Gnome makes a list which details the positions and ranks on the ship, and who can give orders to whom.

1. Captain Merill
2. First Mate Ashayan d'Lyrandar(Effective as #2 only on ship.)
3. Ship Engineer Korisis Haskal d'Sivis(Effective as #3 only on ship.)
3. Lt. Kassad Denieth
4. Elite Team(To be determined)
5. Ship's Crew
6. Mercinaries ranked by Experience
7. Warforged

Once the list is made, he brings it over the Ash and the Lt. for their opinions. He doesn't feel that the captain needs to be bothered with this matter. Seeing as Ash had mentioned to bring minor matter to him earlier, the Gnome figures this is a good move. While he hasn't been in a war before, Kor suspects that they'll likely break into a smaller group for certain missions, because it would very difficult to properly move all these men without being detected. "So, what do you think?"

[hoverfrog]

Ashayan d'Lyrandar

"That's very interesting, Kor," and Ash thinks that it genuinely is, "but away from the Dream I don't really have any rank to speak of, neither do you. As members of Dragonmarked Houses we're officially classed as observers."

"Unofficially...well."

[Madara]

Korisis Haskal d'Sivis: Artificer Gnome


"I don't know about you, by my assignment included travel off this ship. While I'm not supposed to risk my life, my involvement as communication, information, and Magic Engineer remains the same."

But then the Gnome agrees. He decides to note their status to be elevated only on the ship/

[Ghost49X]

Captain Meryll, Ash and Korisis.
Looking at the soldiers milling about sighs and says "Ash make sure the supplies are properly stored in the hold. Korisis do any last minute touch ups I want to leave as soon as we are loaded. Afterwards keep them from fighting; I've got the helm."

The sun is setting as the soldier and mercenaries finish loading supplies and weapons into the ships. Though there were some mutterings from the mercenaries about the 'stuck up' soldiers and replies from the soldiers about 'mercenairy scum' such talk did not go far, for it soon caught the ear of Captain Emer "Since you ladies like to chit chat so much you can get to know each other real good when you're on double watch tonight, now get back to work!"

if kassad was the one Emer overheard, the Captain adds "By virtue of your rank you should show some example, I will not have discord between Deneith and our employers"

Most of the barrels are quite heavy and most likely filled with food. Sweating profusely Romulus loaded heavy barrel after heavy barrel. As he put his back into lifting this last barrel, it gave him a surprise when he picked up without effort.
If Romulus lets his curriosity get the better of him and takes a peak he finds the barrel filled with big feathers caked with a strange golden powder.

[Postmodernist]

Romulus, having succumbed to his curiosity, looks inside the barrels. Upon discovering the strange feathers, his quickly slips one into his rucksack. He then seeks out a mage or artificer to help him identify what it is.

[Ghost49X]

On the evening of the fourth day after leaving Wroat, the fleet crossed over into Darguun and landed in a valley where a Brelish Legion had made camp. On the other side of the Valley One could see the Banner of Thrane beside a camp larger than Breland's by half. Apon arriving Princess Borann lost no time to call forth all her officers for a strategy meeting aboard her flagship the Bear's prize. Of course Captain Emer and Captain Meryll were invited, and they in turn brought Kassad, Ash and Korisis. As they boarded the ship early evening, One could not help but marvel. Three times as long as the Fool's Dream and with four decks of arcane armements, this ship would be worth a legion in the field by itself
Korisis takes note that to power something this size the bound elemental must at least be a lord of its kind.

On the bridge a long table was quickly running out of seats, more than a few would have to stand. Luckly Captain Meryll quickly spotted out a comfortable spot large enough for her group. Within minutes the bridge was filled with nervous chatter. A man in Silvery armor with a symbol of blue flame hanging from his neck stood near the head of the table framed by two stoic knights. Before one could speculate, the door to the aftcastle burst open and Princess Borann walked out dressed in field armor followed by a skinny man with a crooked nose and a bandoleer. Princess Borann takes a deep breath
"OKAY LISTEN UP!" once the chatter dies down, she speaks in a gruff and to the point manner "I want to welcome Bishop-Militant Grodan, he's in charge of Thrane's Troops for this campaign. As I don't want this to take forever, lets start"
Bishop Grodan steps forward interrupting her "If you'll allow me, I would like to bless this meeting before we go any further." Slightly annoyed Borann restrains herself
"Very well Bishop, proceed."
The Bishop opens his hands towards the seated officers and speaks in the loud and deep voice of one used to speeches
"Divine light guide our thoughts and our hearts so that we may bring forth rightious victory against the wicked." stepping back when done. Borann motions to the man besides her, he starts chanting and within seconds an illusionary map appears in mid air beside Borann. Complete with banners and pendants representing the different units. Borann takes a deep breath "We are here in Daargun to avoid the traditional battlefields of Cyr. Tomorrow we will march east into southern Cyr and take Darren's keep from which we will use as our homebase for the rest of the campaign. Cyrian troops don't know we are comming and should we take them by surprise they will fall quickly." The map animates and units move as she speaks. "That being said it will be no easy task, for our intelligence states that there are powerful wards and shields protecting the keep from bombardment magical or otherwise. The plan is for our main forces to entrench and move to scale the walls. While our will airships will circle around and our shock troops will jump from the ships onto the keep. Their main objective will be to disable or else destroy what ever is powering the wards and then I'll leave it to the troops to chase any opportunities they see. When last we held the keep, the key locations were..." and she goes on explaining the map and positioning of each unit.

Two hours into the night the meeting is finally adjourned and everyone slouches off to get what couple hours of sleep they can get.

[hoverfrog]

Ashayan d'Lyrandar

With Captain Meryll's permission, Ashayan briefs the crew and distributes feather fall tokens to those who will need them. Actually a few spares might not hurt and I'm more than happy to provide the Fool's Dream crew with feather fall tokens in case of accident.

[Madara]

Korisis Haskal d'Sivis: Artificer Gnome

Uknown to the rest of the meeting, Korisis takes notes on everything but the strategy. He writes down the different personalities, what kind of words they use, who takes charge, he even takes note of their attire. Indeed, the Gnome notes the meeting and finds himself curious about the man with the crooked nose. Still, it would be a busy day tomarrow, and he needed to get some rest. So, he lays out the gear he's going to take, including the wands.

When the morning arrives, he finds a jump location next to the Warforged he met the other day, and hopefully next to the Lt. The Gnome grabs two of the tokens and jumps with the others, when that time comes.

[Roguenewb]

Kassad

Kassad tosses and turns through the night. Every time his eyes close, his mind refills with the memories of the surging rush of corruption he felt during his test of Siberys, when his mark first lashed out at one of his 'attackers', when his torture began.

Just let it flow through you. Don't fight a gift from a god. Take it

[Escheton]

"Still", Warforged Magehunter



Falling like a lead brick, Still takes special note of the feeling and behavior of his fall as he makes experimental adjustments in his posture as he plummeted. So did he try to observe that of those falling along with him.
Only activating his safety measure at the last moment to halt his dead-fall and right himself.
Once on solid ground he inspected his gear and formed up with the rest of his squad.

[hoverfrog]

Ashayan d'Lyrandar

"Geronimo, wahoo", Ash, takes a flying leap over the side of the Fool's Dream and laughs at the sheer joy of freefall. "I've wanted to do this for ages," he yells at the others as they drop like stones. He activates the feather fall token at the last moment and drifts to the ground with a grin on his face. Now, where did the others land?

[Roguenewb]

Kassad

Kassad looks down over the great fall. You could plummet all the way into khyber...all the way home a voice murmurs in the back of the thoughts of Kassad. "Enough!" he shouts, and leaps off the ship. He tumbles through the air, barely managing to activate his charm before he hits the ground. He breathes deep, gets to his knees, and walks towards the rest of the crew.

[Postmodernist]

Romulus

The swordsage leaps from the airship into the void with utter abandon. The sensation of the wind whipping his fur as he plummeted toward the earth was exhilarating. It was a shame it had to end with the activation of the feather token. By the time the shifter landed, he was slavering wildly and desperate for a fight. He barely glanced around for his companions, looking instead for a means of ambushing his foes.

Adopt Child of Shadows stance for concealment. Hiding, looking for enemies.
Hide: [roll0]
Move Silently: [roll1]
Spot: [roll2]
Listen: [roll3]

[Ghost49X]

Walking back to the fool, Captain Meryll addresses the officers and crew "I recommend you get some sleep, Tomorrow's going to be a wild day."

Early morning, The Fool's Dream
Ash wakes up to a boot proding him strongly, it takes a while for him to understand whats going on as his mind clears the sleep. He is in his dark cabin, empty of unusual things except for the female leather clad figure jabbing her leather boots into his ribs "Get up Ash, the war won't wait. Get ready for battle we take off in an hour, I'll wake the gnome"

Captain Meryll knocks and enters Korisis's cabin, finding the light still on and the artificer asleep on his notes "Not surprising" Meryll sighs as she pokes him with her sheathed rapier "Up, it's time" once Korisis sits up, Meryll smiles and leaves.

The night is still dark and a deep fog has settled when Ash and Korisis arrive on the bridge, most of the soldiers are still asleep though Captain Emer is up and leaning against the rail. Talking with Captain Meryll as he stares into the fog, a devious smile on his face. Seeing her crew assemble Meryll steps forward "Good morning gentlemen, we have less than an hour before the sun lights the sky, we have to be ready to leave before then.

[Madara]

Korisis Haskal d'Sivis: Artificer Gnome

The Gnome is mostly bothered by the fact that he didn't finish he notes, but he's still eager to get started. "This fog might be a problem, or a benefit, depending on how well we know the area." The gnome continues, "So Captain, how well do we know the land? Do we have maps? And how do you want us to organize ourselves?"

While the Gnome is excited to get real battle experience, he figures that next time he'd like to have more infomation and time to prepare what items he'll need. The Gnome then realizes that the captain said "March" earlier. Will they remember my short legs? I don't know if I'll be able to keep up with the rest of the company.


I deleted my post above on account of jumping the gun

[Ghost49X]

The sun barely breaks the sky when the elemental rings burst into flames around the airships one by one as they slowly raise into the air. The ground troops packing the last of their stuff as they form up in large marching columns barely visible in the fog below. The greyness of the sky is a little bit unsettling, but so is the look on the faces of soldiers who have seen battle before. Grim and unyielding, it is the look of those that have have seen horror and they know the path they follow will lead them towards it again.

Kassad is sitting on a low barrel leaning against the aftcastle, polishing his sword and testing its balance. Pondering the meaning of its name while looking at his reflection through the polished silver blade and why it was asigned to him of all people. While doing so he notices the blade perfectly polished, enough that he could not remember looking through a clearer mirror. Looking through Honor's polished surface as he angles it at some of the soldiers he notices a ghastly grey man with white hair in a brelish uniform talking to another soldier. Looking up he sees a different person, a young and attractive adult female in her early twenties talking to the same soldier, looking back at the reflection he sees the grey man clearly. But by the time he snaps his eyes back to the lady, she and the soldier are gone.

[Madara]

Korisis Haskal d'Sivis: Artificer Gnome

The Gnomes asks around, trying to figure out if someone knows a way for him to keep up with the rest of the soldiers. He wouldn't mind the manner, as long as he gets there. In addition, he thinks of something useful to do. He takes his time searching for some cloth and a pole, so he can make some banners for the battlefield, Combat is very loud, so I need a way to communicate without words.

He activates his Mark and creates a highly detailed Arrow, in the same colors as Dragonmarks are, ontop of a piece of cloth that happens to be one of Breland's colors. Then he goes around the camp explaining that if the soldiers see the banner, it means to advance.

In the same sense, he creates another banner, very similar, but with a pair of looped circles(Much like a Venn Diagram) which represent to fall back in an orderly manner. This banner is a bright red, so he keeps it rolled up. With all this marching time, there's plenty of opprotunity for the soldiers to know the banners' meanings by the time they reach their destination.

While traveling around the camp, Kor notices Kassad looking at his sword. Even from a distance, its fine craftsmanship intrigues Kor. He walks up respectfully, "You look as though the sword is trying to tell you something. If you don't mind, I could give you more information about the sword, seeing as how weapondry is my specialty. Otherwise, you ought to keep moving, you're going to need a level head if you want to be a leader."

[Escheton]

"Still", Warforged Mageslayer

Packed closely with his brethren to preserve space, Still's mind wanders to the upcoming battle. Although he wields his weapons with a familiarity as if they where extensions of himself, he never did see battle. And some of the soul-searching murmers of the soldiers that have made him wonder.
So he ran simulations in his mind's eye. How to behave in tight quarters, when to charge in open space. What stance is best for dashing corners, etc.
Especially the different situations on which offence or a defensive front should be traded for ranged support interested the tactician in him.
And when there was noone else around he even tried to discuss his ponderings with those beside him.

[Ghost49X]

The Fool's Dream, Corporal Rand
Kitchen duty wasn't so bad, as far as extra duties went anways. You got to make food and Rand thought he was a decent cook, well thats what his friends told him anyway. Walking below deck he was searching for some fresh produce for the early morning meal. You couldn't let troops go into battle without a good breakfast or their strength may very well falter he reasoned. Looking through barrels and chests for the right ingrediants he arrived at a door. The sunlight shining through the deck above gave it a wierd shadowy look. Intrigued by the door and the posible contents of the room, he put his hand on the door. A feeling of caution and uneasiness touched his mind as he considered his action, but in the end curiosity prevailed and he gave a sharp push. Inside the dark and musty room stood a bunch of immobile warforge staring intently at him for since they've been in this room he was the only interesting thing to happen. "Um, Hi? So I guess this is where you warforge have been hanging out. Why don't you come and hang out on the bridge with the rest of us soldiers? If you should die this afternoon you wouldn't want most of your existance to be stuck in a dark musty storage room now would you?" with this Rand waves them out of the room.

[Escheton]

"Still", Warforged Magehunter

Though unsure what exactly "hanging" meant, Still wanted to make full use of this newfound increase in freedom.
Once outside the stockyard he observed and emulated the men. Excluding the crass social interactions of course.
He stood by the railing overlooking the land below, he stood in small groups, he played dice with surprise over the statistic anomaly of the numbers, he sat against the wall holding his abdomen and walked around.
Though the men seemed to tolerate him, none engaged in verbal communication except for the nice men playing dice, and the gnome that approached him earlyer.

While Korisis explained his visual instructions Still considered the mechanism.
Once the gnome was done he had some minor notes.

"Is it not true that magic items are created that enhance the voice-range of commanders? And is that not so because in a battlefield visual distractions are quite dangerous? Simple command as advance and retreat should be fine though, as they would not require active attention. Have you considered colored arrows for different teams? Or symbols meant to distract and taunt the enemy?"

[Madara]

Korisis Haskal d'Sivis: Artificer Gnome

The gnome is intreguided that such an inexperienced being was so knowledgable. "Indeed, such facts are true. However, I am not advanced enough to make such complicated items, nor scrolls. I used my Dragonmark in order to create the arrows which I can only use twice in a day. During combat, I could use my race's natural affinity to magic to project my own voice, but that effect is temporary."

[Roguenewb]

Kassad

Kassad saunters up behind the gnome and the warforged, looking sullen and unrested. "Commanders who give too many commands soon find themselves giving none," Kassad says, with the air of someone repeating a quote. "You have to trust the men to fight, or so the instructors tell me. Set an example, give your orders, and then get to it. If your squad commanders are no good, the fight's already over. Don't rely too much on the mark Korisis, they're gifts from someone far more powerful, which you should never trust" Kassad says, with a visible shudder and look of dread as he finishes the last part.

[Hazzardevil]

Dragonmarks aren't that useful when it comes down to it, a few times a day you do some small amount of magic that wizards can easily replicate. And when commanding, you give one command and make sure it is followed and know what happens after that or you make sure your officers can think outside of the chain of command.

[Madara]

Korisis Haskal d'Sivis: Artificer Gnome

True, but a large force must also move as one in order to prevent loss. While it is up to the individuals, a simply way to make broad commands helps unify the individual units. As for my Mark, you speak as if you know, but your house has not spent decades studying it, nor are you a dragon who has spent centuries."

[Hazzardevil]

A force too large moves slowly, a small elite force can do far more outside of pitched battle. I am not part of a house, but my people have two, and they emphasize a small elite force is better than a large cumbersome one.

[hoverfrog]

Ashayan Lovain d'Lyrandar

In the days running up to the battle Ashayan talks to the crew and the soldiers and boosts their spirits. He tells stories about heroes returning from battle, sings songs about glory and wealth, tells tales about how the women (or men if that is their thing) swoon over the returning heroes, etc. He'll tell jokes and use his prestidigitation to entertain them and keep tensions down. When not sleeping or on duty he'll make it his task to learn the names of the soldiers, get to know then and generally keep them happy.

Who knows, this might make the difference between life and death in a pitched battle.

[Ghost49X]

The railing of the Fool's Dream, Ash and Korisis
As the morning passes the men get restless, while some remain deadly calm. The sky opens up as the fog disipates late morning, revealing a system of vaste valleys and forests down below. Up above, Ash and Korisis are leaning on the railing admirering the sight when Ash notices a man on the vessel to starboard waving what seems to be colored flags.

A few moments later one of the mechanical soldiers walks over "I bear a message from: Captain Meryll." he waits for Korisis to acknowledge and responds "Tell my chief engineer I want to see him at the helm." Awkward pause "Ask around if you can't find him, he's the only gnome on board." then he abruptly turns around and walks off.

Captain Meryll, Ash and Korisis
Captain Meryll is standing by the helm when Ash and Korisis arrive "G'morning Chief, Ash." Handing a spy glass to Korisis, she points at the vessel flying to starboard"On board there is a man waving flags. Can you tell me what he means?"

[Madara]

Korisis Haskal d'Sivis: Artificer Gnome


The Gnome hurries up top, where he meets with the captain. Glad to be of help, he looks out the spyglass and turns back quickly with a worried expression. "We have to land in the valley immediately. I don't know why, but I suggest we proceed with caution, considering this wasn't planned."

[Ghost49X]

"Very well" The captain opens a compartment under the helm and takes out two brightly colored flags and hands them to Korisis "Take these, Acknowledge their message then pass it on to the next ship. Ash, get the officers together and give them the message. I want them men ready for a fight as soon as we hit ground, until further notice we're on alert." The captain sighs and looks to the horizon for a sign of what provoked this change of plans as the men hurry to their duties.

[Madara]

Korisis Haskal d'Sivis: Artificer Gnome


The gnome ties a rope around his waist to the mast and gets ontop of the rail. He starts waving the flags in a delicate pattern, then waves them in a rolling motion toward the ground, signalling that they are preparing for a landing.

Preparing for landing STOP What is the reason STOP We'll land after you STOP
Then he goes to the other side of the ship to pass on the message to the other ships. The gnome let's nothing get in his way as he runs around the ship making sure to signal the other ships. In addition, he tries to get a good view of where they are landing, and runs inside to grab his stuff.

The message to the other ships is like this:
Prepare for landing STOP Emergency Valley Landing STOP Reason Unknown STOP Proceed with caution STOP

[hoverfrog]

"Aye, Captain" Ash runs to gather the officers together.

[Ghost49X]

Helm of "The Fool's Dream" Capt Meryll, Capt Emer, Lt Kassad, Lt Alphonse, Ash, Vale, Romulus, Still,

All the officers quickly assembled back at the helm, in their haste they have drawn the attention of a few curious onlookers. Capt Meryll waits patiently despite the many questions of the officers as they arrive one by one. When they're all present she speaks "We've been ordered to land as soon as possible, we have already started our descent, I would recommend your men be made ready for what ever comes when we land. And no I do not know why" with that Meryll goes back to concentrating on the helm and the ship's descent accelerates.

[hoverfrog]

"Captain, shall I order the crew to prepare for an immediate launch once the soldiers disembark?" Ash also wants to issue crossbows and swords to the crew as well.