Interesting Times (D&D 3.5) [IC]

[Machuchang]

It is a stormy morning, and the air is thick with the salty spray of the ocean, the sticky moisture carried aloft by the waves that crash ceaselessly against your small ship. You have traveled for months, and have set foot on multiple continents. You have risked your life multiple times to get this far, whether on the roiling open seas or in the shady back alleys of dingy port towns. But as you see the dark shape on the horizon steadily growing closer, you know that this trip was worth it.

“Land ho!” A crewman shouts from up on the crow's nest. “Land hooooooooo!” The other passengers, hearing his voice, hurry up to the main deck to get a better view. There, everyone stands beneath the pouring rain, entranced by the magnificent sight.

Vaera, the final continent, is just moments away.

[Sophistemon]

A great anticipation had driven Jonathan abovedeck a few hours before their expected landfall, and he had spent the intervening time leaning against the furthermost railing of the prow with his face to the spray, so that he might peer into the mists. He had learned, throughout the long course of his journey over land and sea, that the very life of every sailor was one of constant adventure, and even more so if one lacked the constitution to contend with the roiling sea. If adventure were all that he sought, he might have considered making a living at it; after all, facing the primordial fury of the ocean was no less dangerous than confronting an angered troll, and sailors did it nearly every day of their lives. It was perhaps one of the most honest and honorable professions that he had ever encountered, and he had enjoyed his time at sea immensely. Of course, Jonathan craved more than adventure, and after having braved the length and width of Geridia in search of it, a change of scenery was now required. A wide grin split his face following the lookout's call, and the young knight beamed into the pounding surf. "Soon," he said, and a great joy welled up in his heart.

[Varil]

"Woo-hoo! We actually made it! No thanks to that no-good sailor."

"It's fine, Gul-Nen."

The two stood in their cabin, having retreated to ready their limited belongings. Duil's furs had gotten rather damp in the heavy rain outside, though Gul-Nen looked the same as always. It's never easy to tell if a Water Gen is wet or not.

"It is not fine! He swindled us! The...swindler!"

Duil sighed to himself, knowing there was no hope of convincing the tiny Gen. The sailor they had originally gone with, who had planted the idea of going to Vaera in Duil's mind, had left them in the first port they had stopped in. Duil didn't blame the old sailor, though.

"It's your fault, too, you know! Just because you can tell people how your magic works, doesn't mean you should!"

Duil nodded, absent-mindedly. Duil's "bargain" with the Elemental Lords is nothing malevolent, but to a band of superstitious sailors it may as well have been a deal with the Abyss itself. Only Duil's unsuspicious nature had prevented violence, and that was unlikely to last the entirety of the trip.

"Most people aren't as superstitious as sailors, Gul. It'll be fine. You should be happy anyway. Thanks to that we had the opportunity to visit quite a few places, and some were quite warm."

In the end, the old sailor(who had only introduced himself as "Captain Saltboot", for some reason), had left them to prevent his crew from attacking Duil over his strange magic.

Shuddering to himself(Probably just the damp, he thought), Duil considered his efforts to travel here. He and Gul had paid and bargained their way through several ships on their way here, bouncing back and forth between continents.

And now here they were, the "Last Continent". A place where maybe, Duil could find what he wanted.

Shouldering his bag, he addressed Gul-Nen, "Let's go. We should be getting near the port."

Gul followed the lumbering Duil up to the deck and into the onslaught of rain.

[redzimmer]

Man was never meant to go to sea, Oskar thought bleakly.

Since the storm hit he had been over the side of the ship, making "Offerings to Umberlee" as the seadogs so colloquially put it.

But Oskar suffered it, and the sailors' derision silently, as he did most indignities foisted upon him. No suffering he endured was greater then he had inflicted in his past life.

Now Vaera was taking up the whole horizon. Soon there would be landfall, and solid ground under his feet.

"As St. Cuthbert intended," he muttered.

A nearby sailor made a superstitious sign against evil and moved away from the crazy seasick burn victim.

Oskar began to gather his gear. He knew it inadvisable to wear heavy armour aboard a ship, but he did wear his enchanted bracers and shield. Never one to be ill-prepared, he loosened his sword in its sheath and scanned about for anything unusual.

As usual, his wandering mind limited his focus...

[Doc_Pippin]

Gideon rolls lazily from his hoisted bed. Landing hard on the floor, the smell of last nigh's pilfered grog still clinging to his breath. The loud call of 'Land ho' echoing in his still sensitive ears. He lifts himself up and sways to join the rest of the passengers on deck. As Gideon passes someone that could only be discribed as over cooked, he jokingly comments "watch yourself crispy," his tone light and followed by a small laugh.

He tries to gaze out through the mist but quickly loses interest. He had been so drunk that he couldn't for the life of him even remember where they were headed. "So not to sound ignorant to the obvious but exactly were is this tub of fun going again?" His words were followed by a small belch that did nothing to lessen the public view of him as the patron drunkard.

[Tjallen]

Looking up from his daily cleaning of his combat gear upon hearing the lookout, Darv carefully finishes cleaning his chainshirt and walks up to the deck.

Finally were here. But it just had to rain.
Muttering to himself Darv silently repeat the things he know about Vaera.

[bindin garoth]

At the announcement, Jan rushes out of his bed and up onto the deck....... Just to lose his lunch. It was truly unfortunate, but he apparently had a problem with seasickness.... Something he found out about after boarding the ship.

<Perhaps you should stay down in the cabin until we land?> Kara asked him through their link. He was grateful for their link, otherwise he was sure to get blank stares for talking to a sword!

<I gotta see this amazing land you told me about first!> He responds, lifting his head for a moment to look at the new continent. Truly, despite the heavy rain, it was an amazing, breathtaking beauty of nature. It was times like this that Jan was thankful to the spirits!

"Wow....." Jan says to no one in particular.

<It's more amazing than you said!> Jan says to Kara. He simply hears laughter through their connection while he continues to look. Thankfully, after that..... Episode, he was feeling a little better.

[Machuchang]

The sky seems to grow even darker as your ship gets closer, and the waves begin to churn even more forcefully, only encouraging the rampant seasickness that seems to be taking hold on deck. In the distance, lightning streaks across the sky, followed all too quickly by the crack of thunder. The air becomes so cold that it cuts through your clothing like a knife, chilling your sodden bones underneath.

As the wind grows in strength, the masts begin to billow and flap at an alarming rate. Suddenly a sail is ripped from the mizzen-mast, the cloth carried into the sea. You notice that the crew begins to swear even more profusely than usual, and it doesn't take a sailor to realize that something has gone very, horribly wrong. Someone screams, only to be cut off by a wave that crashes over the stern.

In that moment, everything devolves into chaos. The ship explodes into action as every sailor and passenger aboard scrabbles across the slick, slippery deck, trying to find some way to stabilize the ship. You see a man struggling with the main mast take a tumble into the sea as the vessel lists precariously toward the starboard side.

Just when it seems as though things can't get any worse, a stunned silence overtakes the ship. A massive, roiling wave, far larger than any ship, comes barreling towards you at horrendous speed. You barely have time to blink before you are completely submerged.

Reflex saves and Swim checks, please.

[bindin garoth]

OOC:

My reflex save of 2 and swim rank of 0 do not like the above post :smalltongue:


Jan holds on to the railing for dear support as the rocking continues. He almost losses his grip on Kara! Luckily, he is able to maintain his grip, even with the continued rocking.

But the worse has yet to come. He soon sees a giant wave come bearing down. No sooner does he utter the words "Oh s...." then the wave comes crashing down on the ship. Jan tries to quickly secure himself, but if it is enough, he's not sure.


Reflex save: [roll0]
Swim:[roll1]

Hmmmmm...... If I fail both, can I use my Mark of Passage Dragonmark to teleport back on top of the boat?

[Varil]

Duil Reflex :
[roll0]
Swim :
[roll1]

Gul-Nen Reflex :
[roll2]
No swim check needed, swim speed 20'.

[Sophistemon]

The joy in Jonathan's chest is slowly replaced by apprehension, and then by dread, as the storm intensifies and progressively larger waves begin to knock the ship about, rocking it to and fro. As he is not himself an accustomed sailor, the young knight manages to keep his balance, as precarious as it is, only by holding on to the railings. When the sail is blown away and their vessel takes a nasty lurch to starboard, Jon nearly takes a nasty tumble into the drink, and is saved only by the tightness of his grip. While those aboard with the training to do so attempt desperately to replace or repair those parts of the ship damaged by wind and water, Jonathan occupies himself with managing to stay upright on the water-slick planks of the prow. Vaera was so close! If not for the storm they would likely be able to see it by now, if only just barely. And then, not a few moments later, there is that terrible silence wherein everyone aboveboard takes note of the wave, far larger than the others, yawning open like a colossal frothing mouth. Dread is replaced by panic and Jonathan manages to utter a single syllable, "Ber-!", before the water crashes down.

Actions:
Reflex: [roll0]
Swim: [roll1]

[Doc_Pippin]

Gideon continues to rant about various unrelated topics in a string of blather that could only come from someone found at the bottom of a bottle. His last rabbit trail of information detailed something about an ogre, a bundle of feathers, and a rather crude speaking bar maid, but the pointless story was cut short as the ship teetered on the brink of distruction. As the wave came crashing down upon the ship, Gideon's mind quickly pulled memories of the other times he had been on board small ships in rough seas. He reacted without a seconds hesitation.


Because Gideon has a history at sea I'm gonna say he uses an inspiration point on the save
[roll0] Reflex
[roll1] swim

[redzimmer]

"Cuthbert keep me," is all Oskar has time to say, though he adds a prayer of thanks for his insight about no armour onboard.

I can always buy another suit, he thinks as the water hits.

Reflex


Swim Check
[roll]1d20+1

[redzimmer]

[roll0]
I hope this doesn't become a habit for me.

[Tjallen]

A storm too, great.

As Darv notices the wave he shrugs before trying to hold on to the ship.
Of course...

Reflex[roll0]
Swim [roll1]

[Machuchang]

Jan
The huge wave bashes into you at full strength, lifting you bodily over the side of the ship. With a crash, you land face-first into the sea, the force of the impact knocking the air from your lungs. Pushed beneath the surf, you struggle to get to the surface, but the roiling waves are too strong. In just a matter of seconds, the current has pulled you under. The last thing you see before you are swallowed by darkness is the stream of bubbles bursting forth from your lips.

Duil and Gul-Nen
As you see the ship taking water, you grab onto the side railing with all your strength. But once the huge wave hits you, you feel your fingers slip, and the next thing you know, you're in the ocean. With a burst of strength, you propel yourself to the surface. Frantically, you scan your surrounding for Gul-Nen, when suddenly, he pops up right next to you.

Jonathan
The wave plows into you, sweeping you off the deck and into the ocean with and unceremonious crash. Although stunned for a moment from your fall, you manage to regain your senses and make your way back to the surface of the ocean.

Gideon
You wrap your body around the ship's side railing, hanging on for dear life as the wave crashes over you. But just as suddenly as it began, it is gone. Thoroughly soaked, you see that the wave has destroyed all of the ship's masts. It's times like these that you're thankful for the numbing effects of alcohol.

Oskar
You brace yourself against the ship's side, only to be swept away by the massive wave and carried into the ocean with a massive splash. Thanks to your lack of armor, though, you don't sink far under the water, and easily manage to make your way back to the surface.

Darv
You try to stand strong against the onslaught of the ocean, only slip on the slick deck. Almost as soon as you hit the floor, you are carried aloft by the wave and plunged into the freezing water. Fortunately, your military training has taught you to keep your head in situations like this, and you quickly regain a sense for your surroundings, allowing you to easily make it to the surface, where a large floating plank awaits you.

[Varil]

Duil had barely had time to take in the chaos on the deck after returning to topside before the wave struck him, sweeping him overboard.

The shock of cold water hit a familiar note of fear in Duil as he frantically tried to return to the surface, curbed only by a note of amusement from Gul-Nen sent over their mental link.

He almost didn't notice the change from water to air under the heavy beat of the rain, and it took a moment for his mind to recenter itself. Gul surfaced as Duil tried to relax, glancing around in the storm.

I don't have time to bargain for a spell...where's the ship?


Just in case, Spot : [roll0]

Can Duil see the ship from where he is, or did he lose track of it in the storm?
Alternatively, can he see a bit of debris or something he could grab onto for stability?

[Doc_Pippin]

I'm gonna try and see if anyone went under and hasn't come up.

[roll0] inspired spot.

If I see them I will quickly secure my stuff and dive in to save them.

[roll1] swim check

[Tjallen]

As he is swept off of the deck Darv just have time to grab unto a plank.

Trying to keep his head above water, Darv does his best to not drown.

[bindin garoth]

Oh noes!

Can Jan use his dragonmark (Dimension Leap) to teleport straight up 30ft, above the water?

Concentration check if needed: [roll0]

Swim check, round 2!: [roll1]

If he is able to teleport above, he'll start yelling and making a ruckus, trying to get someone's help.

[redzimmer]

If I never board a ship again...

Oskar searched around him and listened for any stricken shipmates in need of assistance.

Search
[roll0]

Listen
[roll1]

[Tjallen]

As he is swept off of the deck Darv just have time to grab unto a plank.

Trying to keep his head above water, Darv does his best to not drown and scouts for the best way to safety, be it the ship or swimming to shore

[Machuchang]

Duil
You glance around wildly, realizing that the wave has pushed you a good 60 ft. or so away from the ship. You also realize that the wave had destroyed every single mast. Fortunately, for you at least, a large chunk of wood from the base of the crow's nest has drifted nearby.

Gideon

As you regain your bearings, you scan the wreckage for those in need, turning just in time to see a tall young man sink beneath the waves. After doing a quick double-check of your gear, you decide to go in after him. With a flying leap, you dive smoothly into the water, making barely a sound. Your old pirate kin would've been impressed.

As you push yourself through the churning tide, you manage to catch a glimpse of the young man, only to see him disappear in a flash of golden light before reappearing directly above you.


Jan
Even as the waves drag you under, you manage to keep your cool. Bringing Kara close, you channel her energy into yours, and soon you are floating on the surface. The salty ocean air has never tasted so sweet.


Oskar
You look around for any of your shipmates in need, but the howling wind and the roiling sea make it to difficult to pinpoint a specific person.

Darv
You cling to your piece of driftwood for dear life. Fortunately for you, you are small enough and light enough that the wood has no trouble holding your weight.

[bindin garoth]

OOC:
YES! OH YEAH, IT WORKED!

Ahem.

I'm glad I took that dragonmarked feat! It's already saved my life once! And to think I doubted the feat....

Jan suddenly appears a little bit above the waves, before falling back into the ocean. He gasps at the sweet, sweet air, praising Kara for saving him! Never before had he realized how flimsy his life was.

He immediately looks around, trying to find any nearby peace of wood to grab ahold of and use to stay afloat.


Swim: [roll0]

[Tjallen]

Guess it's time to look for a way out of this stupid water...
Looking around in the water Darv tries to spot how far he have come away from the ship and how close to the shore he has gotten, determined to not let a little bit of saltwater ruin his perfectly good mood.
[roll0] spot

[Varil]

Duil will attempt to get to and grab onto the piece of wood.
Swim check if needed : [roll0]

If he gets there in one piece, he'll try to draw out a Sunrod from his Haversack and activate it.

[redzimmer]

Oskar treads water as he weighs his options.

Return to ship or eventually drown. I wonder how far I am from shore? he thought.

After glancing shoreward, he tries to swim towards the ship.

Swim

[roll0]

Search

[roll1]

[Sophistemon]

Jonathan
The wave plows into you, sweeping you off the deck and into the ocean with and unceremonious crash. Although stunned for a moment from your fall, you manage to regain your senses and make your way back to the surface of the ocean.
Had Jonathan been born centuries later, in another universe far removed from his own, he might have equated the churning that he underwent beneath the waves to being stuck in an industrial washing-machine stuck on a perpetual spin cycle. He struggled as much as he could against the pull of the ocean and burst, gasping for air, above the surface. He twists about in the water, searching for the ship (or the ship's remains), and whoever else survived the tumultuous wave. Should he catch sight of ship and survivors, he will attempt to fight against the push and pull of the roiling waves and make his way towards them as best he can. If he can't see either... well. If so, that would mean that he was alone in the middle of the ocean, and there would be no hope for him.

Actions:
Spot: [roll0]
Swim: [roll1]

[Machuchang]

Jonathan
You somehow manage to break away from the strong ocean current and push yourself to the surface. You look around frantically for other survivors, but due to strength of the storm and the turbulent motions of the waves, you're having a hard enough time just staying afloat. But even through the misty darkness, you manage to make out the large shape of your vessel, around 70 feet away.

Oskar
As you try to swim toward the ship, a huge wave suddenly crashes into you, thrashing you about and burying you deep beneath the surface.

Duil
You manage to grab hold of the wreckage, which fortunately is strong enough to support your weight. Paddling furiously with your legs to keep your makeshift raft upright, you manage to fish through your belongings and pull out your sunrod.

Darv
You scan the wreckage, catching sight of the demonic-looking fellow you remember seeing around the ship. He seems to be struggling against the current, when a large wave blindsides him and pushes him beneath the waves.

Jan
You grab onto the piece of wood, only for it to rocket out of your hands and land in the water several feet away. You try to paddle towards it, but against the roiling waves, you don't make any progress.

[bindin garoth]

Spot: [roll0] Looking for the others + Boat
Swim:[roll1]

Jan continues his search for a piece of wood, or anything else, to grab ahold of, and hopefully stay afloat. But he finally thinks to look around, trying to spot his comrades. After all, he couldn't afford to lose them, could he?

<Kara! I thought you said it was nice here!> He yells at Kara, obvious frustrated.

[Varil]

Duil fished a sunrod out of his haversack, doing his best not to drop it in the turbulent storm.

Good thing I grabbed my gear. Now to just...

Duil will activate the sunrod by striking it against his "raft", and then try to paddle towards either the ship or the nearest person he can see in the water, whichever is closest.

[Varil]

...might need these.
Spot : [roll0]
Swim : [roll1]

[Doc_Pippin]

Gideon tastes the sickly salty taste of the sea's brine. His heroic gesture seems to have been in vain. "Well, isn't that just wonderful" he thinks to himself as he returns to the surface he readies Serenity for the return trip to the ship. He attempts to knock one of his special arrows and to get into range of the ship so he can use it.


[roll0] Swim (if needed ??? or is my previous one still in use)

[roll1] Spot (To find the ship)

[roll2] Attack roll if I make it within range ((60ft)) of the ship vs the ship's hull AC

>[roll3] for effective damage to see it is sticks in firmly

Hmmm I feel like im missing some part of the complex skill check.... but if I am just ask and I will roll that too

Also note no inspiration used in these cause I only have two more uses for this situation.... and I can't use any on swim checks (requires 1 rank)... or spot until the next day

[Machuchang]

Jan
You look around frantically and manage to catch a glimpse of a young, white-haired human nearby. You open your mouth to call out to him, only to gulp down saltwater as a wave smashes into your face. The next thing you know, you're back under the water.

Gideon
You pull out your bow to try and fire a line back to the ship, but the waves are so rough that it's hard enough to stay afloat, much less fire an arrow. Suddenly, you hear a gasp from behind you as the young man you came in to rescue is dragged down once more.

Duil
Now safe on your raft, you glance around the wreckage and manage to catch sight of a white-haired man with a bow and teenager in some loosely fitting robes. You begin paddling your way to them, only to watch in horror as a wave catches the younger of the two and drags him down.

[redzimmer]

swim

1d20+1

Oskar tried to keep a cool head. If this was him time, he would at least try to drown with some dignity.

[redzimmer]

[roll0]

All of a sudden I am told my messages are too short.

[Sophistemon]

Jonathan manages to blink the stinging spray from his eyes just enough to see the vague shape of the floundering ship in the distance. He coughs brine from his mouth and begins to swim towards the wreckage. It isn't that far away, he tells himself. If I can reach some planks or something, I can grab hold and stay above water long enough to make a plan. Of course, he'd have to survive that long, but hey! He'd set sail for adventure, and he'd found it. One has to be careful of what one wishes for, after all. As his disorganized, post-panic mind begins to wander, his body struggles towards what remains of the boat, stroke by stroke, fighting the enormous strength of the raging sea with his every attempt at establishing some momentum.

Actions:
Swim - [roll0]

[Doc_Pippin]

Shouldering Serenity I will again dive down to help Jan.
[roll0] Swim check

I wonder how long my luck will hold out...
Yay it held a little bit longer :smallsmile:

((Next thing to try is using draggers to scale the side of the ship... :smalleek: if that fails result to prayer))

[bindin garoth]

OOC
*Gulp*

Well, there goes that for my dragonmark saving me.

IC:
Jan is frantic as he is taken back underwater. He doesn't know what to do now. He can't teleport again, and all of his other spells are useless! He can't help but blame himself for not making a better spell selection.

Wait! It'll still work!

In haste, he tries to concentrate on a spell, hoping to save himself for most certain death. Spirits start to gather and swarm around him, and soon form a solid object, appearing to be a squid made of ice!

The ice beast quickly grabs his master and carries him up to the surface.


Concentrate: [roll0]

I, for some reason, though Conjure Ice Beast caused the animal to lose it's swim speed! It doesn't

Summoning an Ice Beast Squid. Swim speed of 60ft. Str of 14 if needed.

Special quality gained from spell: Ice Breath. For freezing bridges in this crazy weather :smalltongue:

[Varil]

Duil could still feel amusement coming through his bond with Gul, from the water nearby.

Of course a water gen isn't going to worry about drowning, but he could at least worry about me!

"I'm glad you're having fun. Make youself useful and see if you can find the one that went under and help him find the surface!"

Hoping Gul could hear him over the storm, he continued towards the man still on the surface.


How big is this raft I'm using? Any chance it can support more than just Duil?
Also : How close is Duil now to Gideon(or rather, how close am I to the spot where Gideon is about to dive)?

[Machuchang]

Oskar
You easily cut through the water, your body made much more buoyant by your lack of armor. You swim towards what used to be the mizzen-mast, and grab on tightly. Only once you are sure that you are safe do you notice the redheaded man across from you.

Jonathan
You notice the mizzen-mast floating in the water and make your way towards it. Thankfully, the huge hunk of wood is large enough to support your weight. After taking a moment to catch your breath, you notice hellish individual across from you.

Gideon
You dive down into the water after the sinking lad, and manage to grasp him by the back of his robes. You pull him up towards the surface, struggling against his weight and the current, but still pushing forward with all your strength. Suddenly, a small humanoid form darts up next to you. The creature appears to be made out of water, but a different sort of water than the sea, and a slight chill permeates the water around it. It swims over to you and grabs the young man as well, helping you to drag him to the surface.

Jan
You try to focus as best you can, but violent motion of the rocking waves and the general stressfulness of the situation make it impossible to concentrate. But just when you think all hope is lost, a you feel yourself being lifted by the back of your robes. In your hazy state of mind, you could swear that the water has gotten even colder. Suddenly, your head bursts above the water, and once again you feel the sweet caress of the salty air.

Duil
Gul-Nen speeds through the water, whereas you have to paddle furiously just to keep up with him. But soon enough, you reach the area where you saw the two men previously, and in only a few moments they burst through the surface of the water, Gul-Nen behind them.
Your raft is big enough to hold two people comfortably, but you could squeeze a third person on if you tried.

[redzimmer]

"You!" Oskar shouts at the red-haired man. "There are people in the water! Grab some rope, we must act quickly!"

Detect Evil on this individual just in case. I presume it's Johnathan?

If possible I cast my glance about for lifeboats, jetties, skiffs or miscellaneous watercraft.

[Doc_Pippin]

As Gideon breaks the surface of the water again he gasps loudly and follows the sudden breath with a string of vulgarity, that ends with "... That is colder that the teat of the witch that bore me." He shivers as the water nearest him had grow a little colder but the alcohol having intensified the heat loss. He quickly notices the little near by raft, helping the young fellow onto the 'raft', he continues "Now try not to die while I try to find my horse,"


[roll]1d20+6[/spot] Spot for the ship or Bovyecka if she has gotten off the ship.

If she has gotten off or the ship is near by I will swim as close as I can in the time given and call to her.

[roll0] Swim
[roll1] Handle Animal

alternatively if I make it to the ship and Bovyecka is not in the water. I will attempt to climb aboard by any means including using daggers to pull myself up

[roll2] Climb ((inspired if this road is taken))

[Doc_Pippin]

[roll0] Spot
I messed the last one up by speed typing

WOOT nat 20 on SEEING STUFF

[Varil]

Gul and the two men broke the surface near Duil, looking chilled and wet but mostly unharmed.

"Are you two alright? Grab on and help paddle!"


Duil'll give the two a chance to get ahold of the raft, and then(assuming no more mishaps) try to paddle it towards the ship.

Swim : [roll0]

Edit : Nooooooo, don't fail me now, luck!

[Tjallen]

Demons in the water too? Gah.
Knowing that saving someone else, twice his size, would most likely be impossible Darv hangs on and paddles toward bigger pieces of the wreckage. [roll0]

[Machuchang]

Gideon
You look around the wreckage, trying to catch a glimpse of Bovyecka, but to no avail. The young man now safe, you take a huge leap off of the makeshift raft and start paddling towards the ship. Unfortunately, the waves are so strong that you do not make much headway.

I'll save the Climb check you made until you actually reach the ship.

Darv
You try to paddle forward, but the surf is too strong, and you only find yourself being pushed further back by the waves.

Jan
You are vaguely aware of being helped onto more stable ground by a white-haired man and a hulking, thick-browed figure. Suddenly, the white-haired man takes a flying leap off of the raft and dives into the water.

Duil
You help the robed teenager and the white-haired man onto your makeshift raft. But as soon as you have secured the younger of the two, the white-haired one has jumped back into the water, towards the ship. You try to paddle after him, but the strong ocean currents make it all but impossible to push forward.

[Doc_Pippin]

As Gideon struggles against the waves to reach his oldest and finest friend, he silently calls out to all the gods he worships, he gives a silent plea for her safety. Gideon redoubles his efforts and dives under the destructively powerful waves in hope that he could gain more ground... so to speak.


Yay! Thank you, cause that climb was awesome.

I guess I will keep on swimming, ((Swimming, swimming, WHAT do you do? You swim swim swim!!!))

[roll0]

By redoubling I mean increase by one of course

[Doc_Pippin]

And so I don't waste all y'all time reading my gripping tale of swimming (of course barring any serious failures or events as well) I give you my effective rounds (all full rounds until I reach the ship)

[roll0] Next round
[roll1] 2
[roll2] 3
[roll3] 4
[roll4] 5

[Varil]

I guess he's mostly safe on the raft, so barring any new catastrophe(such as someone falling off the raft), Duil'll follow Gideon's lead and paddle towards the ship, so here's a series of swim checks.
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]

[Tjallen]

Continuing towards the big wreckage Darv continues to swim. [roll0]

[Sophistemon]

Despite having seen the man several times during the voyage, Jonathan unconsciously recoils slightly from the demonically-featured figure across from him on the mizzen mast, much to what is surely both of their mutual chagrin. After coughing out another mouthful of seawater, Jonathan nods his agreement and takes some of the proffered rope, which has by now become sodden and heavy in his hands. As was the case of his mast-mate, Jon has to shout above the sounds of the squall so that the other man can hear him: "All right," he yells. "How do you want to do this?"

[redzimmer]

It then occurred to Oskar that his hellish countenance may be affecting the man's view of him.

Oskar slipped off his scabbard and belted mace, dropping both out of reach (but hopefully above water). He slowly and without sudden movement began to remove the rope from his pack. He again addressed the red-ahired individual.

"I am not your enemy!" he shouted. "Time is of the esence. Can you tie a rope?"

[Machuchang]

Gideon


[roll0] Next round
[roll1] 2
[roll2] 3
[roll3] 4
[roll4] 5


Once again, you try and push yourself through the water, but once again, the current is too strong.


Duil


I guess he's mostly safe on the raft, so barring any new catastrophe(such as someone falling off the raft), Duil'll follow Gideon's lead and paddle towards the ship, so here's a series of swim checks.
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]


You paddle furiously, but between the stormy water and the new weight on your raft, you unfortunately do not get very far.

Darv
You try to paddle your little float toward the ship, but your size makes going against the thrashing waves nearly impossible. It slowly dawns on you that you are getting pulled back into surf faster than you can keep moving forward.

Oskar
You drop your weapons just out of reach, setting them in a large splintered crack that has spread through about half the mast. As you hand the red-haired man your rope, you scan through your surroundings, catching a glimpse of a halfling getting sucked farther out to sea behind you.

Jonathan
After the devilish man hands you his rope, you both begin to look around the wreckage. At almost the same time, you notice a halfling hanging on to a small plank of wood, slowly getting pushed farther away from the ship by the current.

[redzimmer]

Oskar grabs his end of the rope and drops his shield. Hoping the red-haired man is compliant, Oskar ties the rope around his waist and dives towards the halfling.

Use Rope
[roll0]

Swim
[roll1]



"Cuthbert willing, I will never set foot on a boat again!"

[redzimmer]

"Verily, Cuthbert is a cruel god..." Oskar muses as he sinks.

[Sophistemon]

After opening his mouth and shouting at the strange other man while the strange other man was doing the exact same thing at the exact same time, Jonathan eventually deduces what Oskar wants. Soon thereafter he has carefully looped his end of the rope several times around his wrist and gripped it tightly in his fist, becoming the anchor of their impromptu rescue operation. After voicing his preparedness, Jonathan glances around for those in need who are simultaneously within range of rescue. It would appear that both of the men on the mast spot the halfling at the same time, as Oskar dives back into the sea at the same moment that Jonathan is bracing himself for the action. Unfortunately, the twisting water proves to be too much for Oskar, and Jonathan sets about pulling him back to the relative safety of their mast.

[Tjallen]

Seeing as how moving seems to be futile Darv does his very best to stay afloat, still searching for somewhere safer to be.

Swim [roll0] spot [roll1] and swim to get to a safer place if one exists [roll2]

[Machuchang]

Gideon

[roll0] Next round
[roll1] 2
[roll2] 3
[roll3] 4
[roll4] 5


Spurred on by your initial setback, you surge ahead, determined to make your way back to the ship. Forcing your way through the frigid ocean, you soon come to rest by the side of the ship. Unsheathing your daggers, you dig them deep into the sodden wood before you start to climb. Numbed by alcohol and the chill of the waves, you barely notice your progress until you have clambered halfway up the side of the ship.

Make another Climb check, please.

Duil
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]

You paddle and paddle, pushing as hard as you can to break free of the current. But despite all your effort, you only manage to move about 10 feet forward. The white-haired man seems to be doing surprisingly well though, as he makes his way over to the ship and begins to climb its side using nothing but his daggers.

Darv
You see the demonic-looking fellow getting pulled onto a large, fallen mast by a red-haired man. Deciding that the mast is your best bet for safety, you begin to make your way toward it, paddling furiously to break the current.

Jonathan & Oskar
After Oskar is hauled back up onto the mast, you both notice the halfling you were trying to save making his way towards you.

If you'd like, one of you can make an Attack roll to throw Darv the rope.

[redzimmer]

Oskar wrapped a piece of splintered mast around the end of his rope and hurled it with all his strength towards the halfling.


Gideon

If you'd like, one of you can make an Attack roll to throw Darv the rope.[/SPOILER]

Ranged [roll0]

"Climb, halfling! I cannot guarantee how long I can hold this rope!"

[Doc_Pippin]

[roll0] Climb baby climb!!!!

[bindin garoth]

Jan coughs up some water as he realizes he's safe.... For now. The waters were still raging around him, of course, but he could breath!

.... And there he almost slips into the water again. He tries to steady himself on top of the raft again.

<Kara, I can't help them. Can you....> He tells his sword. In truth, that little splash he had earlier had drained him more than he realized at first. Oh, how he would welcome the warmth of flames right now.

<..... This is really going to drain you...> Is all she says, before spirits seem to flare up around him again. This time, at least he didn't have to worry about sinking. As more and more gather, Jan suddenly lets out a small cry! A cut suddenly appeared on his left arm, caused by the strain of the spell.

The spirit soon consolidated right besides him, soon forming what appeared to be an ice squid. The squid quickly rushes forth to help Duil, grabbing him and moving him closer to the boat.

[Varil]

Duil was starting to breath harder, the exhaustion of pushing against the storm and the chill of his water-logged clothing eating away at his strength.

He muttered under his breath, "Should have bargained for a swimming spell. Or something."

"Don't worry about it big guy! Look, progress! Your heroic efforts are paying off already. You should have been a swimmer instead of a magic user!"

"Your sarcasm will be remembered...as soon as I'm on land and warm again."

Gul just grinned, as Duil pushed himself to continue swimming.


I'll add a few more swim checks to the "I'm going to reach this boat or drown trying" pile, since it's starting to look a bit thin.
[roll0]
[roll1]
[roll2]
[roll3]
[roll4]

Edit : Dice ROLLLLLEEEERRRRR! *shakes fist*

[Machuchang]

Oskar
Hefting the sodden rope, twirl it carefully in your hands before lobbing it in the halfling's direction. Much to your excitement, the rope lands perfectly next to him.

Darv
You see the hellish figure unwind the rope from his waist, before tossing it to you. Fortunately for you, the rope lands exactly within your reach.

Gideon
You manage to scramble up and over the side of the vessel, making it back onto the deck. But only once you are back on the ship do you realize just how empty and deserted it has become. All three masts have been ripped straight from the ship, and barrels, ropes, and cloth that had at one time littered the deck have since been washed away by the waves. Not a single person is left in sight; by now, you can only assume that everyone else has either retreated below deck or been flung into the water.

Jan
Though it takes a colossal effort, you manage to focus yourself just enough to shape Kara into ice squid form. But your efforts are rewarded, and soon your raft is moving forward at a much steadier pace.

Duil
You hear the robed lad behind you coughing, mumbling, and breathing heavily, and then suddenly a strong chill overtakes you, cutting through your sodden clothes and piercing nerves that had long since been numbed by the water. All of sudden, seemingly out of nowhere, a massive, ice-blue squid appears alongside your raft, wrapping its tentacles around your makeshift vessel as it drags you along through the water, back to the ship.

Now that you're being pushed by the squid, you don't really have to make Swim Checks. You can sit back and enjoy the ride. :smalltongue:

[Tjallen]

Darv starts 'climbing' the road. Making his way to the mast.
Climb check [roll0]

[redzimmer]

Oskar is gratified that his efforts have help one person at least.

What of the crew, Oskar thought. He scanned the broken ship for other signs of life.


Search[roll0]

[Varil]

Duil's eyes widened for a moment before he realized the squid was helping them.

"What...?"

Shivering violently(Why did it have to be a creature made of ice!), he gathered himself on the raft and checked on the fellow beside him, who looked exhausted but aware(and less surprised than Duil himself).

"Are you alright? You look even worse than I feel."


Duil just enjoys the ride to the ship. :smallsmile:

[Sophistemon]

"An excellent throw, friend!" Jonathan cheers Oskar's superb aim and then sets about helping him reel the halfling to the safe haven of the mast. After ensuring that the sodden creature has gotten a firm enough grip on the wood so as to not require further assistance, Jonathan unwinds some of the rope from around his wrist and passes it along, so that the halfling can further secure himself. Following that, the knight casts his gaze hither and thither in search of others in need of rescue.

Actions:
Spot Check - [roll0]

[bindin garoth]

".......Yeah......" *huff* *huff*. The young man had a hard time catching his breath.

"...Push. To ship." He commands the squid, before sitting down of the raft. After another few seconds, he's finally caught his breath. He doesn't look any better though.

"That spell just cost a good bit of energy." He finally says to the newcomer on the raft. "The squid won't last much longer, but hopefully it can at least push us up to the ship first."

[Tjallen]

"Thanks for the help." Darv says as he secures himself to the mast.

[Doc_Pippin]

Gideon stares out into the frosty waters that he had just escaped. His eyes scanning for the others he had left behind. With a quick motion he brings Serenity to bear, loaded with a specially roped arrow. His mind was groggy and tired from the effort he had put into the incident, but still others needed him.


[roll0] ((Spot)) if needed even though I just left them not even 30 seconds ago.

[roll1] Inspired Attack roll to shoot the Mast with everyone on it ((to tow them in)) Vs AC of 8-5 + and additional AC problems

[roll2] Damage (not halved for ranged attack)

[Machuchang]

Gideon
You secure the rope to what remains of the ship's railing before firing an arrow into the makeshift raft below, fortunately managing to avoid hitting either of its occupants.

Jan and Duil
The squid pushes you up against the side of the ship. Suddenly, an arrow with a rope tied to its end thuds into your vessel, sinking firmly into the wood. You look up to see the white-haired man securing the rope to the ship's railing.

Oskar, Jonathan, and Darv
The halfling manages to make it onto the mast without much of a hitch, and fortunately, there is plenty of space and the mast shows no signs of breaking.

EVERYONE
You all feel the water begin to sink and surge from your respective vessels. As your eyes trace its path, you see another wave gathering on the horizon, far larger than any wave you have ever seen.

[redzimmer]

Oskar has a mere moment to catch his breath before he sees an even larger wave approach.

"I hate the sea."

Search [roll0]
How far from shore?

Also from my natural 20 on the previous search do I see any other survivors?

[Machuchang]

Oskar


Search [roll0]
How far from shore?

Still a little ways away. I'd say around a mile or so.



Also from my natural 20 on the previous search do I see any other survivors?

You see a far too many other survivors clinging to the wreckage around you, and those are the ones that you can tell are alive. Out of the thirty or so people there were before the first wave, you see twenty-five of them in the water. Four are clinging to the remains of the middle mast, two are lying on a piece of the crow's nest next to the ship, and six are still struggling and thrashing in the surf, much farther out than you are. The rest you see are merely floating in the waves.

[Sophistemon]

After the halfling is safely secured, Jonathan finds himself relaxing somewhat. The three of them had a makeshift raft in the form of the mast, after all, and once the storm quieted itself down - which it surely would, and soon, as storms like this just had to exhaust themselves quickly - they could work together and paddle it towards the shore. Things were looking up, and he felt a shred of optimism for the first time since the wave struck their vessel and threw them into the sea. That feeling quickly dissipates, of course, when something in the water changes. It doesn't take the young knight very long to suss out the source of the disturbance. As Jonathan gazes up at the monstrous wave and subconsciously compares himself to its size and power, he feels beyond small; he feels insignificant. "It isn't fair," he murmurs.

[Varil]

"Oh no." Duil rapidly considered every spell he knew, or knew of, and immediately discarded them all. No time, no time! Even as panic threatened to overwhelm him, he gave Gul the only command he could :

"Gul, dive! Get below the wave and find me later!"

Hopefully, he'd still be around to find.

[Tjallen]

Seeing the less than optimistic face of his saviors Darv loudly exclaims: "By the light of the emperor we will survive this friends." Thinking to himself however the only thought that goes through his mind is a mirror of what Oskar had already said: I Hate the sea.

[bindin garoth]

Jan takes a deep breath. Yes, they had all finally managed to fined sa-- How can the spirits of the sea be so cruel!? All that hard effort they've been putting in to save themselves, and after nearly drowning twice!

But what could they do? It was like a game of ants vs man, man could stomp them out at ant moment. And so Jan looked, with horror, as the giant foot of the sea came rolling in, and but a single line was whispered from his mouth.

"The sea's a b-." Was all he got out before water, and soon darkness, enveloped him.

[Machuchang]

Oskar, Jonathan, and Darv
You can only watch in horror as the other survivors are caught up in the massive wave. Then, in less than a second, you are too. Your world is flipped upside down, and for just a moment, you could swear you are airborne. Then, next thing you know, you are back under the roiling waves, getting tossed about like a ragdoll. The impact has forced the air out of your lungs, and you can feel the undertow sucking you further and further down. The more you struggle, the harder it becomes just to stay conscious, and soon your vision begins to fade and darken, until you are swallowed whole by the darkness.

Gideon
Gideon dashes to the helm of the ship as quickly as he can, gripping the wheel with all his strength and wrenching it to the side in an attempt to minimize the massive wave's impact. But it is of no use. When the wave hits, you only have time to hear the shattering of wood before your world explodes into darkness.

Jan and Duil
In just a split second, the wave is upon you. With all your options exhausted, all you can do is hang onto your raft for dear life. It isn't even one moment before you are plunged into blackness.

__________________________________________________ ___________

Gideon
Your return to consciousness is heralded by a wet, velvety sensation rubbing against your forehead. Your vision begins to flicker, and then suddenly your senses return all at once. Sand... The ship... The storm-! BOVYECKA! You can't help but grin at your trusty steed, who, for the most part, appears unharmed. At that, you look around, finally taking in your surroundings. You are on a sandy beach, not unlike the ones back in Toria, but this one is covered in the wreckage of your ship. Bodies lie everywhere, but you are lucky enough to have been unharmed. Amongst the corpses, you notice the robed teenager and the thick-browed man begin to stir.

Duil
"Hey! Wake up, sleepyhead!" A familiar voice seems to echo through your consciousness, when suddenly a cold wet hand pries your eyelid open. You jolt up quickly, dislodging your familiar from your chest. You glance around, only to find yourself lying amidst the wreckage of the ship. Slowly, it all begins to come back to you. The ship, the storm, the wave. And yet somehow, you made it through almost unscathed. You suddenly realize that you are being watched. You turn toward the source of your unease, only to find the white-haired man and a horse both examining you.

Jan
<Jan...> The sound of your name spoken by familiar voice seems to pulse and pound within your subconscious mind.

<JAN!>

Suddenly, a jolt of energy overtakes you. Before you know it, your eyes have opened, seemingly of their own accord, and images of the ship and storm play ceaselessly behind your eyes. But just as suddenly as they started, the visions end, leaving you sitting bolt upright in the middle of a shipwreck, Kara clutched tightly in your hand. Upon further inspection, you realize that the primitive man and the white-haired figure are both with you as well.

Oskar
Steam rises off your body as awareness slowly returns. The sun feels far too bright, and your clothes are drenched with ocean water. You did not die this time. Slowly, you regain your footing, and begin to take stock of your surroundings. You can see the ship, or what's left of it, in the distance, and your two mast-mates are with you as well. Fortunately, everyone seems unharmed.

Jonathan
You keep reliving the Green Knight's axe blade digging into your shoulder, digging deeper and deeper, over, and over, and over again. The pain is unbearable, but even above that is the alien sensation of finding a soul beside your own inhabiting your same body. Then suddenly, the Green Knight is upon you. He places a large, meaty hand over your heart, and then, with a start, you rise out of the wet sand that you had become half-buried in. Through the fog of your thoughts, you are able to make out your environment. Sand, sea, bits of broken wood... The evidence of your shipwreck is everywhere, with the largest pieces further off down the beach. Slowly, you rise, finding yourself standing with your other two mast-mates.

Darv
The King's seal haunts your dreams, flickering in out of sight, spinning endlessly around your head. You reach out and grasp it, then suddenly find yourself awake, lying in the wreckage of the broken mast you had used as a craft. Forcing yourself to stir, you extricate yourself from the wreckage and notice that your other two mast-mates are also alive and well.

EVERYONE
You all get 500 XP.

Welcome to Vaera, everyone.

[Varil]

"Ugh. Cold, wet, lost...at least we're alive. Gul, how long were we out?", Duil addressed his familiar as he assessed his condition. Gul, ever helpful, just shrugged his shoulders.

"Don't know! Longer than minutes, less than days?"

"Thanks, Gul."

Dampening his sarcasm he approached the man and his horse. (How did that get here? Can horses swim?)

"Well, this is a rough turn of events chance has thrust upon me. I recall you were on the ship, and in the water, but don't believe we've been introduced. I am Duil, and this is Gul."

[Tjallen]

As Darv stands up, he looks around to see if there are other survivors, before checking on Oskar and Jonathan. "Are you alright? I'm Darv and we seem to have lost the ship.

spot check for other survivors[roll0]

[Doc_Pippin]

As Gideon pulls himself to his feet, using his great steed as a brace. Oh old friend I think we both drank to much last night, because we're sharing a terrible hangover, he says quietly, his hand patted her short black hair. Gideon calls out in his best 'drunkard voice' still keeping his actual skills and intellect hidden under a veil of easily overlooked alcohol abuse. "Hello? Where did the Grog go?!?"


[roll0] bluff for feigning drunkenness

[Varil]

Oi, is that a challenge, eh?
Sense Motive : [roll0] !

...eheh. Heh.


Duil stopped short at the white-haired man's outburst.

He seemed rather competent before...did he hit his head?

"Are you alright?"

Duil glanced at the nearby form of the other passenger from his raft as it began to stir.

"You're awake? Are you feeling alright? We've had a rough night, and by the looks of it I suspect it's all downhill from here. At least if my previous luck is anything to go by."

[Sophistemon]

Jonathan awakes with a gasping fit of coughs that clear his lungs of remnant water. The breath that follows is so sweet as to be invigorating, and the young knight feels strength and vigor returning quickly to his limbs. He stands, then, and shakes the sand from his hair before brushing an errant strand of seaweed from his shoulder. He stares out at the now much calmer ocean and a small, inexplicable smile stretches across his features. "That," he says, turning back towards the inland and his two former mast-mates, "Was an adventure!" Following the halfling's introduction, Jon's smile widens. "Guillory," he responds. "Jonathan Guillory, recently knighted. We met on the ship, may she rest in peace, but I don't think we were formally introduced." He looks about and indicates the wreckage. "Can you believe that we survived that? Gods, I've fought giants capable of lesser damage than one of those waves." The smile fades as quickly as it had arisen. "Oh. Oh, I wasn't thinking. How many dead? Do you know? We should collect what bodies we can and lay them to rest." He then looks about, to gauge the number of surviving crewmen and passengers.

Actions:
Spot -[roll0]

[bindin garoth]

<........ Huh?> Was all Kara got out of Jan, He was still processing what had just happened to the. Perhaps he wasn't cut out for this sort of thing? And to thing, he could of been home in a nice warm room, sipping on some soothing green tea........ Oh, why did he leave!?

<.....So we're stranded here? Great.....> He mumbles to Kara. He wasn't the greatest morning person. Then he realizes one of the passengers was talking to him.

"Heh, that was some awful luck wasn't it. I'm just glad we're still in once piece. Name's Jan by the way, I didn't get a chance to introduce myself due to....... Well, let's just say it's my first time being on a boat." He says to the man.

[Machuchang]

Oskar
Oskar rose slowly, brushing the sand out of his hair. After spending a moment to recollect himself, he approached the two men whom he had ridden the mast with.

"A pleasure to meet you both, Jonathan, Darv," He said. "My name is Oskar. Oskar Kriegr, and I would thank you for your help."

Suddenly, a familiar shape caught his attention from the corner of his eye. Curtly excusing himself, he strode quickly down the beach. And there it was. Half-buried in the sand lay his armor, scattered across the beach, but more or less intact. Taking his time to make sure he missed nothing, Oskar gathered every piece, before returning to his comrades.

"I apologize. I thought I had lost my armor in the crash, and I wanted to make sure I had it all. Could one of you help me put it on?"

Darv and Jonathan

There are a fair number of bodies strewn across the wreckage; about 13 in total. You can tell from their waterlogged, unmoving forms that they have long since departed from the world of the living. But all hope is not lost. In the distance, near the main frame of the ship, you see three forms moving.

[Tjallen]

Darv looks aronud at the corpses and then to Oskar

"I am afraid i am not tall enough to help you put your armor on, but i am sure Jonathan could help you. But lets go get the other survivors first, shall we?"

[redzimmer]

"No matter. We must tend to these fallen."

Slowly donning his armour and looking about for his discarded weapons, Oskar tries to assess his situation.

Untrained Survivor check

[roll0]


"I shall determine if any of these poor souls have specific burial needs."

search the corpses for holy symbols

[roll1]

Knowledge: religion on any found symbols

[roll2]

[Doc_Pippin]

Gideon staggers and sways lightly with his 'performance'. "I guess your right," he says slightly more serious, "but its a miricle that any of us survived at all.." his voice took on a small tone of dark seriousness that seemed vastly unlike the personna he had displayed previously. Luckily he followed through seemlessly into his drunkard humor, "Except Bovyecka here, She is the smartest horse to have walked the earth. In fact I once saw her pick up a sword in her teeth and strike down an ogre..." His blatant exaggeration was worsened by the lazy and slightly plump appearance of his horse.

Gideon did not wait for a response he simply went to work checking for any survivors among the bodies


[roll0] Spot
[roll1] Listen
[roll2] Search
[roll3] Heal

[Varil]

Watching the man stumble(?) away, Duil briefly pondered stopping him before turning to Jan.

"Well, I suppose he's well enough. He has the right idea, we should tend to the dead. Gul-Nen, you too. You Outsiders might not care for last rites, but mortals like to have a proper send-off."


Duil will take a moment to assess the beach, and then begin checking for survivors. The dead he'll drag/carry a little ways away from the water, and begin lining them up to be dealt with later.

Spot : [roll0]
Searching for live ones : [roll1]
Gul searching : [roll2]

[Sophistemon]

Jonathan nods at Oskar's introduction and scratches more sand out of his hair. Following that, he looks about at the wreckage on the beach and frowns. "I don't suppose anyone has a shovel?" he asks. "The dead should be buried. If not, they must be burned. Only savages leave their departed to the bird and the beast." He begins to think over the burial rights that he had been taught as a boy. True, they were meant to ease the passing of those who died in battle, but it was also true that those who were now dead on the beach had fought against the tyranny of the sea, and so he supposed that it was close enough to be, at the least, acceptable. He looks down the length of the beach at the other group of three and puts his hands to his mouth in a cone. "Ho there!" he shouts. "Have you any wounded?"

[bindin garoth]

Jan starts to look around, and sees all the corpses and debris from the wave. It was truly a frightening experience!

But now wasn't the time to think about it. They would soon need food and water. And shelter. Luckily, he had help.

<Kara, mind lending me a hand?> He says to the sword.

"I'm going out to get us some food and water." He says to Duil, and heads out into the forest, although he makes sure to stay within eyeshot of the beach. He carefully looks around, looking for edibles, and with a bit of luck, some fresh water.


Survival Check for food/water: [roll0]
(Automatically have enough for myself! Yay :smalltongue:)

[Machuchang]

Oskar
While you cannot recall what to do in a situation such as this, you find the rest of your belongings easily enough, them not having been scattered too far from where your armor landed.

Most of the victims of the storm do not have any signifiers of their faith from what you can tell, but on one man, you find an emblem of Pelor tattooed on his wrist, and another you find a small golden chain with an ebony carving of a raven on it: the holy symbol of Zatheras.

In addition, you also find 51 gp. and a shovel.

On the Gods
Pelor
The proper way to put a servant of Pelor to rest would be by a standard burial rite.

Zatheras
Lesser God (Chaotic Neutral)
A god of storms, Zatheras appears as black-winged, golden-skinned humanoid with glossy hair made from raven's feathers. He is mainly worshiped in the western lands of Geridia and Toria, where farmers venerate him for rain, sailors for smooth journeys, and thieves for good luck in their larcenous endeavors.
The proper way to put a worshiper of his to rest would be by setting them adrift at sea.
Portfolio: Rain, lightning, ravens, thievery,
Domains: Air, Luck, Trickery, Weather


Gideon
Unfortunately, there are no survivors to be found amongst the bodies aside from you and your companions. But that said, you do find a fair portion of items either on their persons or littered about the beach.

Found Stuff
39 gp.
A slightly dented, but otherwise usable Hooded Lantern.
A small steel mirror
A grappling hook


Just down the beach, you see three figures milling about near a shattered mast. Two appear to be human, one light, one dark, and the other seems to be a halfling.

Duil
Unfortunately, neither you nor Gul-Nen can find any survivors in the immediate vicinity, but as you look up the beach, you notice that there are three people standing around the wreckage of the ship, two of which appear to be human, the other a halfling.

Jan
You do not have to travel very far before you come across a tiny stream that cuts down through the short, sandstone cliffs that make up the upper part of the beach. The water is crystal clear, and when you taste it, it is surprisingly cool and refreshing. A few fish and some freshwater shrimp can be seen swimming near the bottom of it as well.

Suddenly, the most peculiar creature you have ever seen appears. It has a wide, squat, furry body, with stubby flipper-like claws, and a wide, thick tail. Most peculiarly, it has a beak that looks almost exactly like a duck's. This creature waddles down through the reeds and foliage growing alongside the river, oblivious to your presence, or simply not caring. Suddenly, with surprising grace, it dives into the water and snatches up a shrimp in its bill, gobbling it down whole.

EVERYONE
Here is a map
http://i1114.photobucket.com/albums/k534/machuchang5/MistyShore.jpg

Expect more bodies and wood chunks in the near future.

(bindin garoth, the area you are in is just off the left side.)

[Varil]

Duil briefly considers stopping Jan as he leaves, before deciding he'll probably be safe enough.

A shout in the distance draws his eyes farther down the beach, to several figures that seem to be tending to the bodies on their end.

Shouting back, he responds : "No, no obvious injuries. Have you any other survivors? I see three of you, and we've another three, including myself."

Duil'll continue gathering and checking the dead for now, though he'll probably leave actual last rites to the more informed and stick to doing manual labor.

[redzimmer]

St . Cuthbert is a pragmatic god, and would think it a foolish vanity to not use items left behind by those who have passed on. He pockets the gold and walks to the grassline. There he wields the shovel, digging a grave large enough to accommodate the fallen - save the disciple of Zatheras.

He ponders a moment whether he should engage the other five survivors, but decides to attend to the dead, then focus on the living. He takes a moment to favour them with a curt nod before resuming the digging.

[Tjallen]

Darv helps Oskar collect the dead next to the grave he is digging.

A proper burial is great, a shame it takes so damn long.

[redzimmer]

Oskar pays the halfling no mind.

How many bodies have I left to the carrion beasts? he wondered.

No. He would take as long as it took.

[Sophistemon]

Amazing, that six could survive unharmed while so many others were dead. The odds against it must have been astronomical, and the knight recites a short prayer of thanks under his breath before responding to the other man. "No!" he calls back. "What you see is what we have, all unharmed." He pauses for a moment to inspect the work of the dourly-industrious Oskar. Not, mind, that he could chastise the man for his mood. "We... we are attending to our dead." He lowers his hands and then sets about helping Darv drag the recently deceased to the steadily growing grave. Over each familiar face he whispers a prayer in the hopes of speeding their unearthly selves towards the home of their god of choice.

[bindin garoth]

Jan
You do not have to travel very far before you come across a tiny stream that cuts down through the short, sandstone cliffs that make up the upper part of the beach. The water is crystal clear, and when you taste it, it is surprisingly cool and refreshing. A few fish and some freshwater shrimp can be seen swimming near the bottom of it as well.

Suddenly, the most peculiar creature you have ever seen appears. It has a wide, squat, furry body, with stubby flipper-like claws, and a wide, thick tail. Most peculiarly, it has a beak that looks almost exactly like a duck's. This creature waddles down through the reeds and foliage growing alongside the river, oblivious to your presence, or simply not caring. Suddenly, with surprising grace, it dives into the water and snatches up a shrimp in its bill, gobbling it down whole.

Answer:

Platypus!!!!!!!
I want to make him my companion. He's MINE! :smalltongue:
Handle Animal: [roll0]
You know I should get a +10 circumstance roll for silliness :smallbiggrin:\

Edit: YEAH! You see that natural 20 up there!? Take that, non-believers of the Platypus! IN YOUR FACE!


Jan walks up to the strange animal. It was a curious thing, he had never seen anything like it in his entire life! Then again, he had never traveled much either....

<Kara, what is it?> He asks.

Originally going for food, he instead tries to gently get the animal to come to him. He simply squats down and tries to appear as harmless as he can while getting it to come over.

If that doesn't work. He moves to the water and quickly grabs some shrimp, while remaining as far away from the creature as possible. He didn't want to scare it away after all. He then holds out the shrimp in his hands, as if offering them to the animal.


Knowledge(Nature) To know that I'm right, its a platypus. [roll]1d20+....... Wait, I have no ranks in Knowledge(Nature)! Oh well, here goes nothing! [roll1]

Edit 2: Even the dice-gods are saying it has to be my companion! See that 19! IN YOUR FACE, round 2!

[Machuchang]

Jan
While you still have no clue at all what this animal is*, its interest in shrimp cannot be denied. Upon catching a few of the crustaceans and holding them out, the peculiar little critter swims over to you and begins to eat them out of your hand.

*Technically, you can't use Knowledge checks untrained.

[Doc_Pippin]

Gideon slowly meanders his way down the beach to where the others are gathered. As he approaches he notices the grim business they are doing. He had never been very good at such events, taking out his mug, he walks awkwardly towards them and begins drinking the cheap ale that comes forth. He motions to the bodies they are burying, "Not the luckiest of fellows?" he said with a small hiccup. His outward appearance of the hopeless drunkard was so natural to him now that it was subconscious. His rudeness was not intended but fairly obvious.

[redzimmer]

Oskar is confused by the man who quipped about his appearance onboard prior to the waves. Was he deliberately trying to antagonize the remaining suvivors? He tried to get an insight into the man, getting into his head, as it were.

Sense Motive
[roll0]

[bindin garoth]

Jan is surprised that the creature did come up to him! After all, he didn't have much experience with animals.

He decides he'll make it his companion! Why not, after all? He just has to figure out how.......

Deciding to take the animal back to the beach with the others, he first reaches back for more shrimp, and holds them out to the strange creature, all while slowly backing up to the beach. He tosses one to the animal every so often, to make sure it doesn't lose interest.

[Doc_Pippin]

I guess the sense motive is opposed by my bluff to appear as a genuinely stupid but somewhat well intended drunk. Who has the habit of saying the dumbest things at the wrong times... ((Ya he feigns being a drunkard as an intelligent life choice to throw assassins and bounty hunters off guard and have them underestimate him. He is very careful not to let it down until he REALLY trusts those around him.))
[roll0] Bluff


Gideon lets out a small burp before 'accidentally' falling onto his rear and drinking another swig from his mug. "A toast to those who didn't make it then," he says in a half spirited manner. He then drinks deeply from the mug, allowing a little to trickle down his chin.

[Machuchang]

Jan
The strange creature, oddly enough, follows you back to the wreckage. When you arrive, you notice that the one called Gideon has since walked down the beach to the speak with the other group of survivors.

Duil
Jan returns, dropping live shrimp in the sand behind him as he walks, followed eagerly by a strange, squat, brown creature with a duck's bill and a fat tail.

[bindin garoth]

OOC:

Yay!

Question: If he lasts until level 5, can I take the wild cohort feat (Bonus feat from VoP) and make him my cohort? :smalltongue:

Yes, I'm having fun with this! :smallbiggrin:


Jan motions for Duil to come over, putting his finger to his mouth to signal the man to be quite. He points down to the create as he holds out the remaining shrimp in his palm for the creature to feed off of. He can't help but grin.

Being as gentle as he can, he reaches out with his left hand and pets the creature. <Hey Kara, what should we name him?>

[Doc_Pippin]

sadly I believe it's exalted feats only for Vop but if I get o level 7 I can make him a suit of armor and a bill bayonet

[Varil]

He's talking about "Exalted Companion". The catch is it's worded poorly. It looks like might be a Druid feat, but it doesn't actually come out and say it. Though I doubt a Celestial Platypus is going to break anything except brains anyway :smalltongue: Apparently not, nevermind!

Duil finishes collecting the bodies together, and is pondering whether to hunt for a digging implement or just go help the others when Jan returns, acting very oddly.

"What are-", Duil barely starts his question before he is shushed, and Jan points excitedly at a small, weird creature. As Duil watches, Jan hands the thing another shrimp and reaches out to pet the animal.

Glancing at Gul(who just shrugs and goes back to drawing in the sand), Duil sighs to himself.

Quietly, he speaks to Jan, "What a weird creature. What do you intend to do with it?"

[redzimmer]

Oskar looks at the shallow grave he has dug.

"Inadequate, but it shall have to do."

He begins to drag the bodies to the grave, leaving the body requiring burial at sea aside.

He takes a moment to explain his reasons, then proceeds with the body harvest.

[redzimmer]

Oskar finished the burial with a quick prayer to whatever gods were listening. He then stuffed stones into the Zatheras worshiper's clothes and tied some sailcloth around his body.

He then turned to the man who aided him and the halfling. What was his name...? Ah, yes.

"Sir Johnathan," he said, "you strike me as a man of honour. Will you aid me in returning this soul to his god?"

Not waiting for a response, he begins dragging the weighted body into the crashing surf.

[redzimmer]

To each of the other five survivors in turn, Oskar gave a brief assessment.

The man with the enchanted tankard - Gideon - struck him as more than met the eye. Despite his feigned harmlessness Oksar could see from his well-kept and dangerour-looking weapons that he would be a better ally than enemy.

The knight Johnathan seemed a noble sort. Another paladin perhaps?

And the halfling. Darv... something. Bitterleaf? No.. something like that. Anyway, from his shot with the bow in the middle of the flotsam during a tidal wave... formidable.
Oskar's only encounter with halflings previously were the Jerran his old warlord master had enslaved. Thus far Oskar had not seen Darv eat anyone, not even the dead. Perhaps not all halflings were cannibals.
Oskar heaved a sigh of relief. One less thing to worry about.

The other two...

the shorter one struck him as some sort of heathen priest. Or a ranger perhaps. Strange that his sword was made of wood. Was that some sort of fetish?

And the last one... Oskar was almost certain his name was Duil. Either he was the shortest hill giant he'd ever seen, or maybe he had ogre blood? Certainly he'd never seen anyone like him. He also seemed to be accompanied by a small spirit of some sort.
A quick detect evil determined the creature was no Lower Planes denizen at least.

Knowledge: the Planes

1d20+1 ???
1d20+1 ???

[redzimmer]

To each of the other five survivors in turn,
Knowledge: the Planes

[roll0] ???
[roll1] ???

????????????????????????

Knowledge: the Planes

[roll2]


Well... not a demon anyway, Oskar thought.

They all seem quiet. Must be all the death that makes them so somber.

[Sophistemon]

Jonathan nods to Oskar. "Of course," he responds. But when he sees the demonic-looking man starting to drag the corpse towards the gently lapping water, his expression darkens. "Hold, there. He died in the sea, because of the sea. What god would force his followers to embrace in death that which killed them? Would he not prefer a grave, or a pyre?"

[redzimmer]

"I confess, I am not a scholar of his faith, nor do I know what would wish," Oskar admitted.

"I was just doing what... seems right."

He shook his head. Did he know what was right? Would he ever?

[bindin garoth]

"Alright, we'll name him Fistandantilus!" He says, not even allowing Kara to answer the question!

<Where did you pull that name out of?> Kara says, confused on how he got that name. Maybe he's going crazy......

Seeing that the platypus hasn't taken all of his shrimp yet, he decides to teach it to stay by his side. As long as Mr. Fistandantilus says by his side, he'll toss a shrimp his way.

Jan walks up to the others. "Sorry for not introducing myself earlier. I'm Jan, and this is Fistandantilus." He says, motioning to the strange creature.

[Doc_Pippin]

Gideon loses himself as he stares at the squat little creature. "What the heck is it?" Gideon mutters, squinting and leaning forward. "I looks like a duck forced itself onto an otter!" he says his random curiosity getting the better of him.

[Varil]

Duil stretches, and follows Jan as he goes to introduce himself to the other group of survivors. After a moment, Gul follows after, eventually settling himself on Duil's pack.

Looks like they've done a good job of clearing the dead over here.

Listening as Jan introduces himself and his...pet, Duil appraises his new allies.

A heavily burned man and another human, both powerfully built, and a halfling, all three well-armed and armored. Same with Gideon, come to think of it.

Glancing at his own darts and spear, Duil ruefully added himself to the "well-armed" tally.

Only Jan seems to be lightly equipped, aside from that wooden sword. But...

Duil swept his eyes to the nearby graves, thinking to himself.

It doesn't feel like luck to me. Perhaps the lad is stronger than he appears...or maybe something else is a factor here.

Shaking off his feeling of unease, Duil takes advantage of a lull in the conversation to introduce himself.

"I'm Duil, this is Gul-Nen."

Hearing his name, Gul turns from watching the water to wave at the group, "Helllllooooo~!"

Duil continued, "So, given that we're pretty clearly stranded, I don't suppose any of you know where we actually are, or have any suggestions on how best to proceed, once we finish here?"


Oskar's rolls make a good point...

Knowledge(The Planes) x 2 :
Oskar : [roll0]
Jan : [roll1]

Rolls to determine if Duil can tell Jan and Oskar aren't quite human(Kn : Planes seems most appropriate, given the planar nature of their oddities. If not just disregard the rolls).

That aside, what time of day is it, Machuchang? How long have/did we spend burying the dead?

EDIT : Way to ninja in a response while I was typing up a roleplay, Mr. DM :smallamused:.

I'll work in Duil's realizations about Jan and Oskar in a later roleplay.

[Machuchang]

Duil
Upon closer inspection, you realize that both Jan and Oskar exhibit otherworldly traits. Oskar's looks are certainly influenced by the power of a lower plane, likely the Nine Hells, whereas Jan's inheritance is much more subtle and decided Celestial.

As such, Jan is likely an aasimar, though judging from the faintness of his traits, he is probably far removed from his Outsider ancestors. As for Oskar, it is much more difficult to tell exactly what he is, though calling him a planetouched would not be too far a leap.

[redzimmer]

Finishing the burial rites as best he can, Oskar considers the large... man? giantkin? and his question.

"The hours grow long. If you are all agreeable, perhaps we should combine our forces for the evening. There is no telling what may be out there."

Remembering himself, he offers a brief introduction to the newcomers.

"I am Oskar Kriegr, most recently of Karnorr. I am a paladin in service St. Cuthbert."

And since he simply could not not know...

"Pray, what manner of creature are you, Herr Gul-Nen?"

Since Karnorr is the expy for Eastern/Northern Europe, I decided to give its native son Oskar a slightly Russo-Germanic characterization.

[Varil]

Gul grins widely as he answers Oskar, "I am the sea and the waves, the flowing current of water!"

Duil frowns, "He's a water gen, and my contact with the elemental powers."

Gul sticks out his tongue at Duil before going on, "Well, yes, that's the easy way to put it, if you're being boring."

Ignoring Gul's grumbling, Duil nods to Oskar as he speaks, "Making camp as a group tonight seems wise to me, if nobody has any objections."

[redzimmer]

"Agreed," Oskar said. "We should move inland and to higher ground. I regret I have little in the way of woodcraft, but I presume lighting a fire would be good."

Never once did it occur to him that the other may chafe at his commanding tone.

Survival again
[roll0]

[Machuchang]

Oskar
Up the beach there is a stream that cuts down from the cliffs. At the top of the ridge, right above the small creek, is a copse of dry trees that could probably be used for tinder.

[Doc_Pippin]

Knowledge Nature
[roll0] To discern a safe location
[roll1] Search for the same
[roll2] Inspired Survival


Gideon slowly staggers to his feet his muscles still sore from the previous effort in the sea. "Ok if you think its best, lets boldly go," Gideon sways as he points towards the tree line. "INTO THE WILD!" His sudden outburst causes Bovyecka to whinny in surprise.

((More when I get the results of my efforts!))

[bindin garoth]

Gideon loses himself as he stares at the squat little creature. "What the heck is it?" Gideon mutters, squinting and leaning forward. "I looks like a duck forced itself onto an otter!" he says his random curiosity getting the better of him.

"He does look like that, doesn't he? Not sure what he is though... We'll keep him around for now!" Jan says.

"Why don't you let me help out? Despite not having been outside much, I was always told I was one with the nature spirits.... We'll find more food for Fistandantilus while we're at it! Oh, and I know where we can find fresh water"


Goes back to pool to grab more shirmp. Also shows the place to the others so they can grab water as they need it.

Survival [roll0] Food finding: Round 2!

Wonder if we'll find another platypus :smalltongue:

[Doc_Pippin]

That would be hilarious, unfortunately I already have my animal.... A very funny horse. That I love deeply as it has been in 90% of my D&D campaigns both as a player and as a GM

[Varil]

When the group spreads out to begin the process of readying a camp, Duil volunteers to collect wood, and makes his way up to the copse Oskar had spotted.

"A fire will be nice...I'm still damp and cold."

Feeling a little more relaxed away from the others, Duil makes idle conversation with Gul.

"You're always cold. Besides, you'd probably warm up faster if you took off those damp furs of yours."

"I'd rather not. Anyway, odd group we've been paired with. Adventurers all, I suspect. Except Jan, maybe."

"Hmph. He's weird. I always picture his type as more reserved."

"His type?"

"You know...celestial or whatever. Asian-mores or some such."

"Asian-...you mean aasimar!?"

Duil nearly stumbled, annoyed at himself.

"Ah! Stupid of me. I just assumed he was human. Come to think of it, those aren't burns on Oskar are they? What do you suppose he is?"

"Beats me! Hey, maybe he's got a bargain like you do! Made some deal with a demon or devil and got himself some neat powers! It'd explain why he's so bossy. Those sort always think they're in charge."

Duil frowned, considering his own relationship with extraplanar powers.

"That isn't impossible, I suppose, but he seems to be trustworthy. And you hardly have room to accuse others of being 'bossy'."

Gul made a face at Duil, but apparently considered the conversation over and said no more for the remainder of their walk.


Duil'll take ten on survival for gathering wood, for a score of 13.

Assuming no interruptions, he'll head back to the others once he has enough, and drop it off at either their chosen campsite or just nearby until a campsite is chosen.

[bindin garoth]

That would be hilarious, unfortunately I already have my animal.... A very funny horse. That I love deeply as it has been in 90% of my D&D campaigns both as a player and as a GM



No worries, Jan will take care of this dude all by himself! My platypus will have no affect on your horse...... Unless it pecks him :smalltongue:

Platypus! Peck! :smalltongue:

[redzimmer]

Oskar set about gathering tinder and dry-looking driftwood. Cuthbert be thanked, at least his gear survived mostly intact.

He had ten days worth of field rations, so he and his fellow suvivor had at one day's worth of food.

Hopefully someone is more adept at foraging than I, he thought wryly.

His meagre supplies were rounded out with his sodden bedroll, a couple of sunrods (should I inform them of my infernal... gifts?) and a flint & steel.

All the time spent outfitting himself in battle protection, and he risked death through exposure and hunger.

He returned to the de facto base camp and addressed the group.

"A certain quirk of my heritage has granted me the ability to see in the dark. I feel it would be wise to allow me to stand watch at the darkest time of night."


Search for signs of natives, wildlife, etc.

[roll0]

"I do not suppose any of you are a ranger?"

[Tjallen]

Darv mumbles, just low enough to be hard to pick up: "I'd rather someone else stood guard."

bet he will be at our throats when we fall asleep, Damned demonspawn probably caused the shipwreck too

[bindin garoth]

"While not a ranger, I have been said to be in tune with the spirits of nature. It's easy for me to find food and the like." Jan says as he runs off with the creature, looking for food.


Rolls in previous post

[redzimmer]

Not sure what to make of the halfling, Oskar attempts to get some insight. Since his last encounter with a halfling involved them eating him alive, he had some preconceived notions.

Sense Motive
[roll0]

If a cannibal by nature, he might not be evil per se. Thus I should not dismiss him as no threat until his actions prove otherwise. He thought.

[Machuchang]

Gideon
The copse of trees up on the hill looks like it would be suitably protective from the elements, and there is plenty of dry wood there that could be used for firewood or a rudimentary shelter.

Jan
Upon returning to the stream, you manage to snatch up a few more shrimp before deciding to follow the water down to the ocean. After examining the area for a little while, you notice a decently sized fish swimming around a large bed of coral. After throwing a few shrimp into the water as bait, you manage to catch it, and after using the same technique, you manage to catch a few more.

Duil
Following Gideon, the two of you have no trouble at all finding wood at the top of the hill.

Oskar
The halfling is incredibly different from the Jerren that you are familiar with; he is far more civilized in manner and looks for one. His chances of being a cannibal are almost nonexistent.

[bindin garoth]

"Found some food!" Jan says as he walks back to the group, fish in hand. Hopefully they liked fish. Well, they'd just have to deal with it, he wasn't running out a third time for food!

"Anyone have the stuff to start a fire? I, unfortunately, don't." Jan tosses a few shrimp to his animal friend.

[Varil]

Returning to the camp that was slowly taking shape, Duil set down his gathered wood and nodded to Jan.

"I have flint and steel, so making a fire shouldn't be too difficult...hopefully."

With that, Duil set about trying to put together a proper fire.


Duil'll try taking 10 on survival again for starting a fire(13)
If that doesn't work out then he'll try again with a roll.
Survival : [roll0]

[redzimmer]

"Allow me to assist," says Oskar, trying to put the halfling out of his thoughts.

Perhaps in his actions he could prove trustworthy.

[roll0]

Aid Another

You can help another character achieve success on his or her skill check by making the same kind of skill check in a cooperative effort. If you roll a 10 or higher on your check, the character you are helping gets a +2 bonus to his or her check, as per the rule for favorable conditions. (You can’t take 10 on a skill check to aid another.) In many cases, a character’s help won’t be beneficial, or only a limited number of characters can help at once.

As he fumbles with the flint and steel, he almost burns himself.

"Perhaps I will be of more aid elsewhere."

[Machuchang]

With a few flicks of his flint and steel, Duil manages to catch a spark and set a nice fire ablaze.

By now, night has begun to fall on your small camp, and the chilly winds from earlier have only become colder. Fortunately, between the fire and the cover from the old trees, you are more than warm enough, at least for the moment.

[Doc_Pippin]

As the sun sets and the group gathers around the fire, Gideon again pulls out his mug and has a nice cold ale as he talks with the group. "So then... Anyway so the names Gideon," he pauses as if confused by his own thoughts "I can't remember if I told you that." his puzzled look is for once genuine with all the events that day the pleasantries of normal conversation seemed unimportant. "And this fat thing is Bovyecka, she refuses to believe she is a horse if you can believe that! Thinks she's an over sized dog, swear on my life if this horse could bark it would. Saw her chase a cast once, was damnedest thing I ever saw in my life." Bovyecka simply stands there grazing lazily while Gideon goes on one of his all to common tangents of exaggeration.

[Doc_Pippin]

Bluff if needed for his OUTRAGEOUS Rants
[roll0] Bluff! Bluff like the wind!

[Tjallen]

Darv in a calm and quiet voice says:"I'm Darv, servant of the emperor." after that he once again falls silent, his eyes constantly keeping tap of Oscars whereabouts.

[bindin garoth]

I DON'T BELIEVE YOU! BEHOLD MY SENSE MOTIVE! :smallamused:

[roll0]

Edit: .................. :smallannoyed: I guess I do believe you :smallfrown:


Jan is surprised by the stories. Surely it wasn't true! Was it? A horse thinking it was a dog? Jan takes a nibble of fish while listening to the man. He was quite curious about this horse. Then again, he didn't have much experience with animals, although he tended to get along with them quite well.

He does make sure to toss a few more shrimp to Fistandantilus. This time he roasted them! He was curious if the strange animal would like them.

[Varil]

Duil huddled as close to the fire as he could stand, irritable about the creeping cold. Gul had flopped down behind Duil, using him as a wall against the fire's heat. Outsiders technically didn't need sleep, but Gul seemed to enjoy it, and had already fallen into a shallow slumber...or a good facsimile.

Duil listened to Gideon's tales, wondering again how a man who seemed to competent at the ship could seem so...unusual now.


Sense Motive, gooooooo : [roll0]

EDIT : Woohoo, Duil is only unsure of Gideon's tall-tales, instead of being a complete sucker! Go Duil, you gullible sap!

(Not that it matters, but I actually looked at the wrong column when I calculated my -1 Sense Motive modifier before. Whoops.)


He noted the quiet halfling's name, and briefly wondered who his emperor was.

I guess I should have been more attentive of who the rulers of the lands I passed through were. Though I guess he could be from somewhere else, anyway...

Shivering to himself, he resolved to try and guide Gideon to a healer if they ever managed to reach a proper town.

Nobody here has the look of a healer, unfortunately. I hope none of us get wounded trying to find a city...


Duil'll eat using his own Everlasting Mug and Everlasting Rations.

[redzimmer]

Search
[roll0]

As the dark falls, Oskar steals away from camp to search about for any signs of life. He knew he would need to eat eventually, but he wanted to be sure that their position was secure and everyone else had eaten first.

Anyway, the "drunkard" Gideon was beginning to fray his nerves.

Apologies for the constantly switching from present and past-tense. It's how I roll.

[Tjallen]

As Oscar moves away in the night, Darv draws his bow and awaits his return, arrows at the ready.

[Sophistemon]

"Agreed," Oskar said. "We should move inland and to higher ground. I regret I have little in the way of woodcraft, but I presume lighting a fire would be good."
The knight nods in recognition of a good idea. "Too right," he says. "I've had enough of the sea to last me a lifetime; it'd be good to get away from it for a while. Getting somewhere warm and dry would be a blessing of the highest order." And then, later, once the group has established themselves elsewhere...

"A certain quirk of my heritage has granted me the ability to see in the dark. I feel it would be wise to allow me to stand watch at the darkest time of night."
"That's generous of you," says Jon. "And I offer thanks for your sacrifice. I'll take first watch, then, and relieve you at around midnight; does that sound good to you?" Once the group is going around the fire and offering introductions, Jon is all too happy to speak up about himself. "My name's Jon," he says. "Er, Sir Jonathan Guillory, for all of it. I've been recently knighted only last year, and I got it into my head to set sail for the good of king and country, not to mention fame and fortune." He indicates their little campsite. "Well. You can see how it turned out." He then places a hand on the over-sized axe that he has laid to his side. "I"m a fair hand with Bredbeddle, here, and not unknown back home for the scrapes I've been in. The rest of you lot look equally qualified for survival, so... so I guess it could be worse, eh?"

[bindin garoth]

Jan lets out a yawn. Surely, sleep would be a welcome thing for them! It had been a too eventful day.....

<Jan, shouldn't you be more careful?> Kara asks him, a bit worried that all he was worried about was sleep.

Well that, and this new animal. <I'm fine, Kara. We'll be ok if anything happens......>.

And with that, Jan soon says. "I'll take the last watch then. I'll need the time to commune with the spirits anyway." He says to the group. He seems a bit...... Cavalier about the situation. Perhaps he just is the type to never worry?

[Machuchang]

Oskar

Off in the distance, you see four large, hairy, bipedal creatures making their way across the savannah, accompanied by four wolf-like creatures, two of which appear to be pulling some sort of cart.

[redzimmer]

Finishing his reconnoiter, Oskar returns to the camp.

"I am unsure if this is a threat, but I have just seen some... people I suppose for lack of a more concise description," Oskar says.

He describes what he saw to the group.

"I do not recognize either the humanoids nor the manner of beasts with them."

[Varil]

Duil frowns at Oskar's news, and nudges Gul awake.

"Gul, I need you to act as my contact."

Gul blinks sleepily for a moment before breaking into a wide grin, as Duil begins to whisper his "terms".


Depending on time, Duil will attempt to memorize a few spells, just in case a fight breaks out. He'll take 10 on all his diplomacy checks.


He'll start with Dancing Lights(Diplomacy 24). Gull will be gone [roll0] rounds.
Then an Orb of Cold(Diplomacy 22). Gul will be gone [roll1] rounds.
Then a Wall of Smoke(Diplomacy 22). Gul will be gone [roll2] rounds.
Then Grease(Diplomacy 22). Gul will be gone [roll3] rounds.
Then a Piercing Cold Ray of Frost(Diplomacy 21). Gul will be gone [roll4] rounds.

If there's still time after these, he'll continue on to try and memorize 3 Ray of Frosts(Diplomacy 24), and two Launch Bolts(Diplomacy 24), with Gul being gone for [roll5], [roll6], [roll7], [roll8], and [roll9] rounds.

[redzimmer]

"Do any of you have further information regarding this strange land?"

After some self-deliberation, he continues.

"The bulk of information I have is from sealed documents made privy to Cuthbertan church."

He continues, hoping he has not stirred a hornet's nest.

"Vaera first came into prominence around 35 years ago when refugees from the Karnorrian Civil War sought a haven. These refugees quickly discovered diamonds in Vaera, and brought back this information."

He pauses.

"Such news as this will draw all manner of treasure-seekers to exploit the resources and the local populace. Sadly, I know nothing of the inhabitants. Frankly, I know not even the name of the destination our ship sought."

Lord, but Oskar is plodding in his speech :vaarsuvius:. Somehow I just can't write him any other way.

Long story Short: Diamonds he here for the taking. Oskar doesn't like oppressed natives. End transmission.

[bindin garoth]

"Well, I can start throwing flames their way if they become dangerous." Jan mentions to the others. He hopes they don't scare away his animal, he had only just met him!

"Do you think they'd be willing to negotiate?"

[Doc_Pippin]

"Negotiate?" Gideon echos with a strange confused look on his face. His eyes suddenly widen with excitement, "Savage people always brew the strongest stuff! Lets be their friends!" he says standing up with a small fumble.

He frantically pats himself down as if looking for a ghost hidden within his pockets. by the end of his strange jig like evolution he holds in his hands, a small mirror, a sunrod, and several gold coins. "Do you think they are those kinds that love all the shiny stuff?" He stops for a moment in confusion looking out at the others.

[Tjallen]

"Sounds like monsters to me."

[bindin garoth]

"So, who'd like to go up and talk to them? I probably shouldn't, I'll admit I'm easy to knock about if things turn..... Less friendly." Jan asks the others. He can't help but wonder though, who his animal friend run away if a battle broke out?

[Tjallen]

"Where i come from you don't talk with monsters, you just fill them with holes. I can come along as backup for when that happens." Darv stats matter of factly.

[redzimmer]

"Diplomacy would be best. We are the outsiders here, after all."

Oskar gives Jan an apologetic shrug for the poorly chosen words.

"I shall approach them. They were a ways off when I saw them, so I doubt they have seen us. But it is just a matter of time when our fire is seen."

He looks at his new associates.

"I may not inspire feelings of camaraderie, given my appearance. Any of you who wish to join me are welcome to."

With his typical grace, Oskar trudges off without awaiting a response, checking his armour straps and weapons as he head back in the direction of the humanoids.

[Tjallen]

Drawing his bow Darv follows.

Been too long since iv'e had some practice with my bow, living targets are not plentiful enough out on the seas.

[bindin garoth]

"Hey Darv, remember: Diplomacy first. But hey, if they don't listen, go ahead and practice your archery on them. Think maybe you should stay hidden with your bow ready, should they show any signs of aggression?" Jan mentions, following closely behind, with Fistandantilus at his side.

[Tjallen]

"I'll hide within range. Just put up your hand when you want me to fire."
Darv follows and tries to find a place to hide within at most 200 feet of Jan.

Ooc: If there are no "s around my text it is supposed to be thoughts. Darv is quiet and does not say alot. His thoughts are just not a reflection of that :P

[redzimmer]

Oskar is impressed with Darv's ability to hide in the tall grass. Weapons sheathed but within easy reach, he moves towards the humanoids.

[Machuchang]

As you get closer, you can see that the four muscular humanoids are covered by thick, shaggy brown pelts, painted with large red whorls and stripes. Large, dog-like heads rest upon their shoulders, their glowing green eyes tracing your every move. Thick strands of drool begin to drop from their slavering maws. All of the figures are evidently female, muscular, and well-armed, wielding cruelly barbed spears and wearing crude hide armor.

Their strange yellow wolves bristle at your presence, gnashing their teeth and emitting low growls, as though they can barely contain themselves from attacking outright. Suddenly, one screams. A strange, high-pitched shriek that pierces the stillness of the night, uncannily human in its timbre.

[Doc_Pippin]

As the scream cracks the still night Gideon finally arrives to the scene. The sudden outburst causes him to stumble in front of the group. Just now becoming aware of the strange humanoids and their odd wolves, He quickly assesses the situation. <sylvan>"Well then... How do you do ladies?"> He says in his best seductive voice, he preferred using sylvan when he tried to charm women, as even if they didn't understand it, it simply sounded beautiful and that alone could be enough.

Gideon also gives a warm look at the hounds hoping to calm the tense situation.


[roll0] Diplomacy: Come on lady killer!
[roll1] Handle Animal: Come on Bi... I mean dog lover!

[Tjallen]

As he hears the howl Darv puts an arrow on his bow, ready to shoot when the first sign of trouble comes.

[bindin garoth]

Jan follows up behind Gideon, although not terribly far behind. Then he hears the shriek. Fistandantilus runs into some nearby shrubs (assuming). He couldn't help but think that this wasn't a good idea........ He's tempted to order the attack.

But he sees Gideon sticking to the plan. Perhaps he can help! He walks a little closer, not saying anything but showing they mean no harm through body language.


Aid another!
Auto-succeed on the Handle Animal, Gideon gets a +2!
Diplomacy: [roll0] Edit: And another +2!

[redzimmer]

Oskar remains calm, holding his position and making no sudden movement.

Holding action?

[Varil]

As the others began to stand to leave, Gul reappeared for the final time, and arcane knowledge flashed through Duil's mind.

"Good timing. Come on, we'll follow the others."

Duil trailed after the others, keeping several feet behind Oskar. As the group comes to a stop, warily watching the large creatures, Duil mulls over possible ways to open a conversation with the tribal-looking humanoids when one of them lets out a sudden shriek.

What was that...a warning? No...a signal? Are there more of them?

And then Gideon stumbles into view and begins speaking, his expression worrying Duil more than anything the female creatures might do.

Oh no. Is that...elven? Why would he...

Jan seems to follow Gideon's lead, and steps up beside him looking as friendly as possible.

In common, Duil followed Jan's actions with his own words, "Greetings, we are...travelers from afar. I am Duil, and my silver-tongued companion is Gideon."


Diplomacy Aid Another for Gideon :
[roll0]

EDIT : Edited for awkward wording and because I forgot Jan didn't actually say anything.

[redzimmer]

Oskar continues to remain still, knowing that his appearance can at times be... troubling. He does however, look inward to the hearts of these beatwomen to determine if they are afraid, planning malice or otherwise.

Detect Evil. At least Oskar will know that if it goes pear-shaped he can stab with a clear conscience.

[Machuchang]

Oskar

The familiar tint of blue begins to tint your vision as you scan over the beast-women. Slowly but surely, a creeping cloud of red begins to emanate from each one of them, until each is a blood-colored blot in your sight. A sure sign of evil.

EVERYONE

Each one of the beast-women examines you a little too closely, wide, toothy grins creeping across their faces. But as soon as Gideon begins to speak in Sylvan, they expressions immediately change to one of shock and rage. The largest of them howls up into the night sky, and suddenly they are upon you.

Roll initiative.

[redzimmer]

"Foul Ones! By Cuthbert I shall destroy you!"

Oskar raises his hand clearly so Darv is not at all confused by the gesture.


[roll0]
Since he was unarmed as a sign of diplomacy, Oskar will use the gauntlets included with the purchase of his armour for this round.

Never mind, since Oskar has a BAB of +1 drawing a weapon is a free action according to the SRD.

Oskar draws his weapon and hefts his shield.

[Varil]

Duil's eyes widen in surprise as his attempted greeting is cut-off! From somewhere behind him he hears Gul chuckle.


Initiative : [roll0]

[Tjallen]

Waiting for just this to happen Darv lets his first arrow fly, an aura of cackling lightning surrounds the tip of the arrow.

To hit: -2 for one range increment [roll0] damage [roll1]+lightning [roll2]
Initiative [roll3]

[Doc_Pippin]

[roll0] init. ((Come on baby daddy needs a new pair of... not being mauled!))

[Machuchang]

One of the gnolls shrieks as an arrow takes her through the throat, collapsing in a heap on the ground. The others continue to charge ahead, seemingly oblivious to the death of their companion.

Gnoll Initiative: [roll0]
Yeller Initiative: [roll1]

INITIATIVE ORDER:
Yellers
Duil/Gideon
Oskar
Darv
Jan
Jonathan
Gnolls

[Doc_Pippin]

Was that all the yellers do? Just wondering if it's moved down to myself and Duil.

[Varil]

Hard-bargained thoughts of power flashed into Duil's mind as the initial panic of the sudden attack wore off. Even as he moved to step away from the roaring creatures he called to mind the simplest of his spells, opting to conserve his strength in case there were more enemies coming.


Duil will open his turn with either moving back 15', or taking a 5' step back(if an enemy got close enough to AoO if he casts).
Duil will casts Ray of Frost on the nearest Gnoll.

Touch attack(ray) : [roll0]
Damage(cold) : [roll1]

Also : Are two of the wolf-things still strapped to a cart? Or are they all loose now?

[redzimmer]

Oskar rounds on the nearest of these hyena-men, whatever manner of hell-beast they be. Swinging his sword, he inwardly calls upon St. Cuthbert to guide his hand.

Improved Smite Evil Attack

[roll0] EDIT: So... I suppose now is as good a time as any to ask if you do critical fumbles on a natural '1'? :eek:

Damage +1d6 for Improved Smite (Presuming these gnolls are evil and my detect evil isn't on the fritz)

[roll1]
+
[roll2]

"Herr Gideon! Watch for reinforcements!" he shouts, choosing the "drunkard" only because his name was freshest in his mind.

[Tjallen]

Seeing the battle is in full swing Darv carefully picks three targets and sends an arrow towards each, three flaming arcs flying from his bow.

Useing Muliple shot and Flaming Arrow.
Arrow one crit not confirmed (ac 9)
[roll0] [roll1]
Arrow two
[roll2] [roll3]
Arrow Three
[roll4] [roll5]

[Sophistemon]

Sir Guillory kept pace with Oskar while the strangely-featured warrior strode towards the beastly natives and their oddly-colored canines. As they grew closer and the creatures became easier to see, Jonathan attempted to stifle a rude preconception; they looked to him to resemble too many beasts of his homeland, many of whom he had dragged out of dark places and into the purifying fury of the Cleansing Flame. He, like Oskar, walked empty-handed in an attempt to present towards these natives a peaceful appearance, in the hopes of lessening the possibility of a misunderstanding. For a moment or two, it seemed to be working, until one of the humanoids opened its fanged muzzle and issued a shrieking howl that so startled the young knight that he stumbled backwards, momentarily stunned. By the time that he recovered, battle had been joined. The axe Bredbeddle leaped into his hands from its resting-place on his back, and with an answering cry of challenge, Jon swept the crescent blade at his nearest foe. If the enemy is a hominid, Jonathan will attempt to sweep the midsection, bisecting the belly and spilling its guts to the ground. If instead it is one of the wolves, Guillory will swing overhanded in an attempt to cleave its head from the shoulders. Whichever the case, his cry of "Have at you, beast!" rings loud.

[bindin garoth]

Jan is startled and backs up a little bit. After all, this was his first fight! Wasn't it natural to be afraid? Fistandantilus goes and hides in the nearby shrubs.


As soon as he makes sure that he has some distance from the..... Things, Jan decides to open up with some flames. Well, he had used up most of his magical powers during the storm anyways, so there wasn't much else he could do. Sparks suddenly seem to gather at the tip of Jan's sword, the focus is clear on Jan's face.


Casting Produce Flame. Have to wait until next round to attack :smallfrown:

[Machuchang]

Here's the map:
http://i1114.photobucket.com/albums/k534/machuchang5/VaeraSavannahMapcopy_zps71bc6a3c.jpg

Let me know where you want your characters to be. Red circles are Gnolls, yellow diamonds are Yellers, and the white block is the cart. Also, sorry about the super ghetto map. :smalltongue:


EDIT: So... I suppose now is as good a time as any to ask if you do critical fumbles on a natural '1'? :eek:

Nah, don't worry about critical fumbles and that sort of thing. A 1 is just an automatic miss.

[Machuchang]

With a start, the strange wolf-like creatures burst away from the gnolls, charging full speed across the battlefield. One slams into Oskar with a fearsome scream, while the other cuts down toward Jan.

Yeller 1 (vs. Oskar)
Attack (charge): [roll0]
Crit Confirm (if necessary): [roll1]
Damage: [roll2]

Yeller 2 (vs. Jan)
Attack (charge): [roll3]
Crit Confirm (if necessary): [roll4]
Damage: [roll5]

Whoops, sorry! That's what I get for copy-paste spamming. :smallredface:

[Machuchang]

Oskar's Damage
Damage: [roll0]
Trip Attempt: [roll1]

Jan's Damage
Damage: [roll2]
Trip Attempt: [roll3]

The first yeller sinks its teeth into Oskar's leg with a sickening crunch, biting through metal and leather to puncture the calf beneath. The second leaps into Jan, slashing his waist with its teeth in its frenzied attempt to push him to the ground.

In the midst of the yellers' assault, Duil fires off a slim ray of ice into a gnoll's neck as she dashes toward him, freezing a large patch of her fur solid.

Next Up
Gideon

[Doc_Pippin]

Gideon will move to the nearest yeller and try and kill the crap out of it with 'Harmony'.
[roll0] Attack Roll
[roll1] Crit comfirm
[roll2] Damage

((Let us pray to the Dice Gods that I do not fail!))

I think my inspiration worked YAY!


Pending Results

[Machuchang]

With a fearsome swing of his blade, Gideon cleanly slits the throat of the yeller attacking Jan. With a heavy thud, it's body falls limply into the dust.

NEXT UP:
Oskar. Do you want to keep your original action, or would prefer to change it to something else?

[redzimmer]

Oskar swings at the offending canine creature, swinging downward with all his might.

[roll0]

And should I actually hit...

[roll1]

Oskar shouts a battle cry, putting the pain in his leg behind him.

[Machuchang]

With a vicious thrust, Oskar jabs his blade toward the slavering beast, catching it beneath the shoulder blade. It gives a hideous, human-like shriek as blood drips from its wound, but still it stands.

From the other side of the battlefield, Darv looses three shots toward the gnolls, his mystical talents setting the arrows alight. Two of the arrows hit home, striking the two charging hyena-women on the left and right respectively, killing them both. The middle shot is slightly high, however, and the gnoll warrior ducks beneath it with ease.

NEXT UP:
Jan

[bindin garoth]

Opposed trip attempt: [roll0]


Jan takes a step back, wincing from the pain from the attack. Unfortunately, it is enough to cause him to trip over himself, landing flat on his back with a quick thud.

Jan is quick to counter, however. With a quick yell, the flame at the tip of his sword shapes itself into a small dagger and launches itself at the wolf, searing it's flesh. With a flash, another flame appears at the tip of the sword.


5ft step back. Knocked Prone from trip.

RangedMelee Touch attack: [roll1] -4 from being prone.
Damage(fire) [roll2]

[Machuchang]

With a quick flick of his wrist, Jan sends his searing blade through the side of Oskar's assailant, frying its innards with his powerful magic. The Yeller falls dead to the ground, smoke trailing from its wound.

Next Up
Jonathan
You can go ahead and make new rolls. It's been a long time. :smallredface: