Pirates of the Aether {IC}

[Lentrax]

The last volley still echoes across the sky as the Lady's Gambit reloads her cannons. Through the gun ports, and from the main deck, you can see the enemy vessel, broken, battered, and with two of its masts broken, it is beginning to sink through the aether toward the roiling black masses of the perpetual Magistorms.

From her place on the poop, Captain Vess collapses her spyglass and strides down the stairs, her dark green jacket flaring in the wind. 'Master Bookbinder! Secure the ship for sudden descent! We are going after her! The rest of ya louts arm yourselves and prepare for boarding!"

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 48/48
HD: 4/4d10 SD: 5/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

"Aye, Captain! ALL HANDS, HOLD FAST!!"

Surging down the stairs to the gun deck with the vigor of the chase, Laz works with all the diligence and speed he can muster, tying guns and hatches fast to their positions. The crew follows in his racing pace to secure the guns, soon funneling up to the main deck to prepare ropes and planks for the boarding party. After a quick check of the work, Laz returns to the main deck, tightening his belt to ensure that his own weapons were held in place.

"All secure, Captain!" In a flash of remembrance, Laz quickly doffs his hat and throws it down the stairs before running back to the mast, his bald head gleaming in the light. The yaw of the ship forces Laz's legs to buckle for the briefest of instants as he grips the ropes about the mast with white knuckles, his other hand tight around the hilt of his sword.

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

Well she'd wanted some excitement in her life, and today was certainly providing it Josys thought to herself. With one hand gripping the railing and the other holding tightly to her staff she said the arcane words for a spell of protection and in a quick flash of movement droplets of water swarmed her forming a layer over her entire body and then hardened into ice before fading from the sight of mortal eyes.

With her magical armor on she then sent her familiar, Chione, to scout out the positions of the crew aboard the enemy vessel. As Chione got closer she let her senses slip from her own body into those of her familiar's. As soon as she saw the enemy crew members positions and armaments (and anything else important to note) she shouted it out, hoping her crew would be able to make it all out over the rushing winds.

[Silent_p]

Marinelle lets out a whoop of victory as she sees the other vessel listing and sinking. From her spot on the main deck, she claps a crew mate on the shoulder and spins around. With the captain calling for rapid descent, she heads quickly to her duties, securing ropes and double-checking any potential loose items as she goes.

Tasks complete, she checks her weapons are secure on her belt and adjusts her armour slightly. Damn thing always pinches just a’fore a tussle. Still, it does little to sour her anticipation as gets back to her place on the main deck. Setting herself for the drop, she turns toward Laz, giving him a wild grin. ”Not savin’ any for ya this time!” She calls out before whooping again as the ship descends.

[Dayaz]

Sariel grimaced. She hated this part. Sariel had never been one for much violence, but that was the price one paid when your only way to see the world was on a pirate ship. She buckled her shield to her arm, and made sure her scimitar was ready to be drawn.

"Well, cherrio chaps. Let's get on with this." She called to the others with obviously false cheer. "As always, lads and lasses, if you start getting to hurt, come find me!"

[Lentrax]

Once the ship is signaled ready for descent, Captain Vess nods. Then she spreads her feet, and plants herself on the deck.

"Helmsman! Take her down, swift and fast!"

She draws her saber, and the blade catches the light of the setting sun as she sweeps it down. The ship keens as the masts shift to allow the sails from the five masts to catch the wind they can. Riggers do their jobs well, and take in the sails that would cut their speed, and let out the sails that will catch the wind to speed their descent.

You feel your stomachs shift as inertia takes hold. The Gambit picks up speed, and you can see her target coming up alongside.

The entire remains of the crew are rushing about trying to repair enough of the ship to keep her from falling to the swirling darkness below.

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 48/48
HD: 4/4d10 SD: 5/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

The steely look on Laz's face turns to a smile at hearing Marinelle's jest. "Ha-HA! YES! Indeed! Though if you recall corre--WHOAH!!" As the ship pitches forward, his body follows suit, rope digging into fingers as he maintains his visegrip about the mast. Only when the Gambit gains on its prey does the man release his hold, drawing his rapier and unclipping his buckler. Eyes dart from the fo'c'sle across the main deck to the aft - Laz cares not for the damage of the ship, but how many souls must be contended with before claiming the prizes aboard. With any luck, the poor devils won't fight at all... though I suppose Marinelle would be quite disappointed!

Seeing Chione nearing the enemy vessel and gaining a better vantage point, Laz shouts over the winds to the familiar, "What do you see?", making his way past the scrambling crew to Josys's position to better hear her.

I'll rely on Passive Investigation here - I'm not searching for anything hidden or particular here, just tallying a number of enemy crew who might put up a fight once we board.
Action: Dodge (if applicable), looking out for ranged attacks.

[Lentrax]

'Grapples at the ready!" the captain calls out. "Get ready to bring her in!"

Those of you who are so inclined to do so pick up a grapple and rope from where they are hung on the rails. Or rather, on what is left of the rails. The Gambit had taken a bit of a beating, after all.

The ship comes alongside and just when you think you're about to get too far ahead of the falling enemy, you hear the captain above the wind.

'Loose grapples! Snare her, and make steady for boarding!"

From the rigging above you, there are a few gunshots as those few to have the primitive longarms open fire on the crew aboard the other ship.

The grapples fly, and as they latch onto the railings, rigging and deck guns of the enemy ship, the ropes are pulled taut and the ships are dragged together. And then there is a sudden jerk as the helmsman levels the descent of your ship. The wind tells you that you are still failing, but the rate has been slowed by the fact that one of the two ships is still able to use Aetherlite.

"Now, you sky dogs! Board her, and bring her captain to me!" But of course, as is her custom, she doesn't remain on board her own ship. Instead she grabs a rope and swings herself over to the other ship.

As you come aboard the other ship, you see the crew stop trying to repair their dying ship and instead reaching for weapons to repel you from their home.

Roll Initiative. There are seven pirates facing you.

[Silent_p]

Marinelle can't help but grin a little wider as Laz stumbles in the middle of a retort. She redirects her attention, however, and mere heartbeats after the grapples are set, she grabs a hanging rope and swings across to the rival vessel. Hot on the heels of the captain, she circles around a pair of opponents, placing one between her and their ally. Her footwork nimble and smile bright, she sashays forward quickly. "Pleasure t' meetcha!" She says before attacking.


Move and Bonus Action Dash to get into position with only one enemy within 5ft of Marinelle. Assuming this is group A.
Attack: [roll0]
Damage if it hits: [roll1]
Sneak Attack (from Rakish Audacity): [roll2]

[Lentrax]

On the unfamiliar deck of the enemy ship, Marinelle swings her blade, but the swing just glances off the pirates armor.

Rolling Pirate group A attacks now, will post description in a second post.

Pirate 1 against Marinelle [roll0] D: [roll1]
Pirate 2 against Marinelle [roll2] D: [roll3]

And Pirate 3 loads a rifle.

[Lentrax]

The pirate, fear still in his eyes at the idea of falling into the storms, swings back at his attacker, but Marinelle catches the low on her scimitar, causing the first true sound of steel on steel to signify the boarding action has begun in earnest.

Another one of the pirates runs up, swinging a deck sword, but a shudder in the planks of the deck shifts his aim just enough that Marinelle sidesteps it easily.

The last pirate in the group takes a step back and begins loading a rifle, using a cartridge box hanging from the crossbelt of a dead sailor suspended from the rigging.

That brings us to Ramsus.

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

Josys returns her vision from Chione back to her actual body. She focuses on a group of the enemy crew as she chants an incantation and holds her staff aloft in their direction. The gem that serves as the head of the staff shines brightly, less like its actually emitting light but more like its somehow reflecting a lot more light than it normally would. Blue-tinged sparkling air swirls around the enemies she's focused on. Then she slams the butt of the staff down onto the deck and the swirling air instantly slams into them, chilling them to the bone and even forming layers of ice on them (probably most notably in hair and beards and the like) and coating every object nearby in ice that effectively glues it to any surface its touching.

Then she goes and hides behind the mast, not wanting to get shot.


Casting Magnify Gravity as a 2nd level spell, changing damage type to cold. Targeting the most enemies I can within 60 feet in a 10-foot-radius sphere, preferably without hitting any allies. DC 14 Con save for half of [roll0] cold damage and their speed being halved until the end of their next turn. Also, Until the start of your my turn, any object that isn't being worn or carried in the sphere requires a successful Strength check against DC 14 to pick up or move.

Then Move to go Take Cover behind the mast.

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 48/48
HD: 4/4d10 SD: 5/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

Laz grab a rope and swings onto the ship, sword at the ready. As Captain Vess and Marinelle tangle with one of the groups and Josys freezes others, he turns his attention to the single pirate standing alone. Unclasping his buckler, Laz takes a defensive stance, a ready eye open to any attackers as he engages with the singular foe.

Move: Close the distance to Pirate C.
Action: Dodge (Advantage on DEX saves + all enemy attacks against Laz made @Disadvantage)
Reaction: Riposte if/when an enemy swings and misses with a melee attack: [roll0] to hit; [roll1] piercing damage; expend 1 SD

[Dayaz]

Sariel sighed, and swung over to the other ship behind the rest of the crew. Following her usual modus operandi, she stayed back near what railings still looked solid, and began looking for anyone who was getting too hurt. Just in case, her hand brushed a pouch at her hip and she whispered a druidic spell.

OOC:

Passive Perception 20 looking for anyone who is dying, both friend and foe.
Casting Goodberry

[Lentrax]

Arcane power sweeps across the deck, coating the wood in a sheen of ice. One of the pirates unfortunate enough to be in the chilling blast becomes coated with ice, and shatters when he collapses to the deck. the other two pirates near him manage to turn away just in time to keep their faces free from the encasing ice. And the last pirate, rushing across the deck with rope for some unknown task, manages to draw her saber and use it to keep herself from falling down on the ice.

Laz, taking cue from the captain, swings across and engages with one of the pirates, but waits for a better moment to attack when the pirate lets her guard down.

Pirate C: [roll0] D: [roll1]

Pirate B1: [roll2] D: [roll3]
Pirate B2: [roll4] D: [roll5]

[Lentrax]

The pirate lifts the point of her saber up off the deck, and whips the blade around in an arc that glances off the armor Laz is wearing.

The other two pirates who got caught in the ice blast from the wizard draw their own sabers and rush up to make their own attacks against the crew, but they can't manage to land a blow.

Sariel takes cover and prepares her berries, but so far, no one seems to be in need. Or rather, there was a need, but for those who could have used the aid, too much time has passed for it to be of any use.

And that brings us back around to the top of the round.

Laz is engaged with three pirates.

Marinelle is engaged with two pirates.

Josys is not engaged, and neither is Sariel.

[Silent_p]

As Josys' magic adds some extra chaos to the battle, Marinelle makes a few probing moves before turning her footwork into a move away from one of her opponents. She slides deftly around to place the other between and swings out with another slash from her cutlass.


Bonus Action Disengage to freely maneuver so only one enemy is within 5ft of her.
Attack: [roll0]
Damage: [roll1]
Sneak Attack: [roll2]

[Lentrax]

Marinelle slips around the pirates, and with them unable to track her movement for just long enough, she strikes, her blade biting deep into the pirate woman's side. She cries out in pain, but as Marinelle pulls her sword out, the woman is still standing.

Hearing the woman cry out, the pirates Marinelle was engaged with turn and move to keep attacking her.

A1: [roll0] D: [roll1]
A2: [roll2] D: [roll3]

And pirate A3 will fire at Josys. [roll4] D: [roll5]

[Lentrax]

The pirates attack Marinelle, one swing goes high as Marinelle ducks under it, but the second pirate strikes true, and the blade cuts into Marinelle's arm.

Meanwhile the third pirate finishes loading his rifle, and sets it in his shoulder. He aims and fires, but at the range he is firing at, the ball hisses past Josys's ear without impacting on anything.

And speaking of the wizard...

Ramsus is up.

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

Seeing that all her allies and foes are all entangle now and she can't repeat what she did a moment ago without hurting someone she wasn't supposed to, Josys elects to just interfere with the only unengaged foe she could see and with a twirl of her staff tried to inflict a minor curse of frostbite upon him.


Casting Frostbite on the lone gunman. DC 14 Con save to negate [roll0] cold damage and disadvantage on his next weapon attack before the end of their next turn.

Staying behind cover if possible.

Sorry all for being slow again today. Another busy day and almost all of my games have a Discord ooc so I'm less used to having to remember to check if someone has posted. (And I don't subscribe to threads on the forum, as that's just not my habit.)

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 48/48
HD: 4/4d10 SD: 5/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

Surrounded! Not good, but not impossible!

Three blades oppose one. Juking to the right, Laz swats away the center and rightmost swords before striking at the pirate to his left, relying on his feint to draw an opening in his opponent's guard.


Bonus Action: Feinting Attack (spend SD to gain Advantage on an Attack against a target within 5 feet)
Action: Attack: leftmost pirate to Laz, strike made with Advantage
[roll0]
[roll1]
Damage if hit: [roll2] piercing

No movement; remaining engaged with all enemies.
SD will be expended in the IG stat block at the next post.

[Lentrax]

Further astern, there is a mighty clash of steel on steel, and for a brief moment, you can see Captain Vess engaging with another group of people, including one who appears to be maybe the enemy captain. But you can't watch for long, as your attention is pulled back to the combat before you.

Josys can feel, even as she releases the magic of her curse, that it will not be able to take hold on her intended target.

But in the meantime, Laz feels his blade cut deep into the pirate before him, and the man grunts in pain, and falls with a gurgling sound as blood bubbles from his open mouth.

Pirate C: [roll0] D: [roll1]

Pirate B1: [roll2] D: [roll3]
Pirate B2: [roll4] D: [roll5]

[Lentrax]

Most of these pirates seem to be having a hard time getting past their ship being damaged and falling to do much in combat besides get in the way, and it shows in their swordwork.

Their swings go wide, or are easily blocked, and those few that do, fail to even damage your armor.

But the woman... She seems to have her wits about her. and Laz finds his sword arm held by an her free hand, and her sword comes in and cuts deep.

15 damage from the crit. Damn.

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 33/48
HD: 4/4d10 SD: 3/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -




15 damage from the crit. Damn.

"GAHHH!!" Shoving the woman away, Laz rebuffs one of his foes that missed with a riposte, hoping to fell another foe before turning his attention to the one who'd cut him.

Reaction: Riposte: One of the other pirates that missed their swing against Laz: [roll0] to hit
Damage if hit: [roll1] piercing
SD will be expended in the IG stat block at the next post.

[Lentrax]

Laz parries. And parries. And then he sees the opening, and thrusts!

The blade pierces into the pirate, and he screams as he falls to the deck.

And with that reaction, we come back to the top of the initiative order. So, Marinelle is up.

[Lentrax]

The fighting carries you across the deck.

From above, shots that go wide strike the planks at your feet or ricochet off of deck guns and falling sabers. These spent shots fly past your ears with odd ringing sounds.

Sabers rattle and clash around you.

Laz and Josys do a fine job of keeping their enemies pinned down, and thin out the numbers a great deal.

But it is Marinelle that impacts the battle the most. With a shuffle and a flurry, she sets up a feint that lets her whip her blade behind her and pierces the chest of the sailor that Captain Vess is dueling.

This man was apparently the ranking officer, because as the man falls, many of the other remaining crew begin throwing down their weapons and raising their hands.

The captain begins looking amongst the remaining sailors, and finally points to a man with her bloody saber.

“You! Where are they you bastard?”

“Hold below the line, ma’am. Aft stairs will take you down. Will you be taking us with you?“

Captain Leana Vess had already taken a step toward the aft, and doesn’t stop as she turns her head back to answer coldly. “That depends on if everything is well below.”

“Laz, Josys, Marinelle, with me, if you please. Rest of you lot watch these dogs.”

The interior of the ship is a mess. Your cannons tore her apart in many places, but the stairs still function, and you pass down past the gun deck, down past the crew deck. You can hear the moans of the injured and dying through the smoke that obscures the deck.

The captain doesn’t stop to look around and continues down the stairs. You notice the painted line on the planks between the two decks, and know that you are passing the water line, a holdover from the days when ships sailed the seas instead of the skies. But, in all the years of aether warfare, below the water line is still the safest place to store cargo or passengers on a ship in combat, which is why the tradition of marking the line is still commonplace.

As you walk across the lower hold, past the powder stores, and past the personal effects of the crew, you come to a door that is locked from the outside.

The captain inspects the lock, and the door then turns back to all of you with a gleam in her eye that you don’t think you’ve ever seen before.

“Miss Josys? If you please?” Her voice is tight, like she is trying to control herself.

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

Josys is a little surprised that she's being called on, but rather than hesitating due to the surprise she defaults to just immediately doing what was asked of her without thinking. Or at least what she thinks is being asked of her. She points her staff at the lock and tries to freeze it so that it become brittle and easy to break off.


Not sure if I really need to roll this stuff out of combat, but just in case I do might as well save time and do it rather than asking.

Ray of Frost: [roll0]
damage: [roll1]
if crit: [roll2]

[Lentrax]

After she finishes freezing the lock, Captain Vess moves Josys to the side, and then lifts a foot.

She kicks the door, and the lock shatters as the door bursts inward. The captain steps into the locked hold, and you are able to see in past her. Instead of what you expected to find, namely jewels and/or gold, or some kind of cargo, you instead find...

People.

A group of people, dressed in rags and some with chains holding them to the walls, is in the hold. The captain keeps walking into the hold, lifting faces up to look them in the eye. As you walk into the room and see the condition of the people, you suddenly hear a croaking voice from the rear of the room. "Lea? Is... is that you? Or am I hallucinating again?"

"No. Not this time, ele'er ithi'esi," is the quiet reply that you barely make out.

You hear the sound of the Captain hacking at chains with her saber, and a moment later, you hear chains hitting the floor.

Moments later, the captain comes back, carrying an emaciated Elvish woman in her arms. She stops in front of you. "You three. Please. Help these people out of their chains. get them freed and lead them up to the main deck. We will get them aboard the Gambit."

She looks back down at the woman in her arms. "Thank you," she says to you. And then she is gone, leaving you with a hold full of prisoners.

Ele'er ithi'esi: Flame of my heart.

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 33/48
HD: 4/4d10 SD: 2/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

"Aye, Captain." Keeping his thoughts to himself, Laz begins removing the prisoners from their chains - easy enough work, as the Captain had already broken the primary chain - but undoing any manacles is beyond his skill. The adrenaline of the battle did not lend itself well to calmness, but the man does his best. "Come, now, on your feet. You're in good hands now. Up to the main deck," Laz says, speaking in a different language for each humanoid he helps according to their species, but sticking to Common if he did not know their tongue.

Is there any way for us to know where these people are from, just by looking at them?

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

Josys stumbles a bit when she's pushed out of the way as she'd been trying to get out of the way, but apparently hadn't been fast enough. Thankfully she's regained her footing by the time the captain leaves the room and tells them to free the others.
She helps by freezing rings in the chains so they're easy to break, like she did with the lock.

If any of the captives don't understand the languages Laz uses, she tries Aquan because... why not?
She helps one person walk out, because she doesn't really have the strength to carry anyone who can't move at least a bit on their own and even then the others probably move faster than she does.

[Silent_p]

Still feeling the thrill from the earlier fighting, breathing heavily and with her heartbeat thundering in her ears, Marinelle slowly takes in the captain's instruction. After a moment, she notes the others heading into the hold and realises she should follow.

Discovering the people below wipes the last of the grin from her face and she scowls at the conditions. "Barbaric," she mutters darkly as she retrieves her tools and starts opening locks. "Yer free now, those bilgerats won't be botherin' ye no more!" She then declares to all present.

The chains all dealt with, she joins Josys and Laz at the tail end of the exodus. "Toss the slavers ov'rboard. That's what cap'n should do," she says to them, a touch more quietly.

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 33/48
HD: 4/4d10 SD: 2/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -


The chains all dealt with, she joins Josys and Laz at the tail end of the exodus. "Toss the slavers ov'rboard. That's what cap'n should do," she says to them, a touch more quietly.

Laz trails at the very end of the throng of people making their way up to the main deck. "I don't disagree, necessarily," he remarks, following Marinelle's cue for quiet, "though I suspect she might make it a bit more personal, given the ele'er ithi'esi remark... Forgive my ignorance, but is that a common term of endearment in elven culture, or something more personal?" For all Laz's booksmarts, the nuances of the language do not hold in his memory in the same way the mechanics do. The arrival of this new ward of the Captain, however, piques his interest.

[Lentrax]

None of the beings here (four elves, seven humans, a halfling, and three dwarves, all of mixed genders) speak anything unusual. Their native tongues or Common. For some of them, their shoulders hunch and they seem to be heaving. It isn’t until you see their faces that you see that they are trying to weep, but they lack the water to actually cry or make more noise than a hoarse moan.

Those that are able to, start shuffling their way toward the stairs, but it’s slow going. They don’t seem to have much strength left.

When you reach the main deck, you find the captain standing there, the elven woman leaning on her free arm. You are just in time to find another member of the crew reporting to Captain Vess. “The cargo is stored aboard, Cap’n. Jerrick’s taken a look about and thinks we could salvage this one for a prize.”

Captain Vess shakes her head. “No, Mister Willen. This ship no be fit for it. She’s a blighted one, and I condemn her to the storms. May they cleanse this stain from the world.”

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

"Flame of my heart." Josys translates for Laz, before they reach the captain. She's not sure she wants to be caught trying into the captain's personal business.

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 33/48
HD: 4/4d10 SD: 2/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

Laz raises an eyebrow before replying in stiff Elvish, misunderstanding his compatriot, "So it is a common phrase... I like that! It's quite poetic..." As they reach the main deck, the man begins moving towards the Gambit, ready to grab a rope and swing back aboard when given the order.

[Silent_p]

Marinelle shrugs. "If'n she's important to the cap'n, she's important to us." She says just as they reach the main deck.

She starts getting the people ready to move over to the Gambit. Spotting an obvious issue, she swings across to begin settling the boarding ramps in place so those weakened by their captivity can disembark with greater ease. She offers a smile and some words of encouragement in the process. "Aye, that's it, one foot afore the next... Ye'll be havin' some good 'n hot grub soon enough!... Ain't a thing, just look 'n walk."

[Lentrax]

The captain watches as you and some others from the crew help the passengers aboard.

"Get them below, and have Master Borlin find volunteers to give up their bunks for the worse for wear. Tell him also to please convert the Wardroom to more temporary beds. I was not expecting to find this many still alive, but it is welcome."

The captain turns to the three of you. She gestures you closer and lowers her voice from her booming command voice to a more restrained just more than a whisper.

"I would have you come by my cabin this evening. I fear we have more things to discuss. Now," she says, her voice becoming louder once again. "Miss Montgomery, I would ask you please escort my wife to my cabin and help her become comfortable. And Miss Holimion. You take a party below to help you arrange the powder to hole this accursed boat and send it to the earth below."

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 33/48
HD: 4/4d10 SD: 2/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

Receiving no direct orders, Laz closes his eyes and nods, deferring to the earlier command of helping Master Borlin convert the wardroom. Walking across the gangplank to the Gambit, he offers his hand to anyone still crossing before tending to his duties, shuffling furniture about the wardroom to make space for stringing up hammocks and laying out bedding. Laz begins muttering excitedly to himself as he works, "The brutes had kidnapped the Captain's wife! That's quite a thing! And to think, there was no way of really knowing... but we might have fought with such zeal!..."

As the ramble and the work continue and eventually conclude, Laz clears his task with Borlin before returning to the main deck, intending to witness the sinking of the slaver vessel.

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --


Josys nods to the captain, and can't help but smile. This is the first time the captain has entrusted her with any kind of task that shows trust is being placed in her.

"Tell Master Borlin I volunteer mine." she promptly tells Laz when she sees he's going that direction. It's not like she has any serious need for a bunk anyway. A little bit of extra comfort for her is certainly hardly a priority.

Then she gathers some of the stronger looking crew, because gods know she's not going to be able to move around any barrels full of powder, and tells them, "Captain says we're to use the powder aboard to get this ship ready to be sunk." And then with pride she leads them to do just that.

Once they're out of earshot she comments, "Captain didn't say we shouldn't take anything. So keep an eye out and we'll grab whatever looks valuable or useful on the way out."
And that task is really where her true attention lies, as it doesn't take a lot of effort to make sure the seasoned sailors arrange the barrels correctly and set up wicks so they can set them off from the safety of their own ship later.


In case I need a roll for finding stuff. Josys herself is most keen to find a 100gp pearl or 50gp diamond, but any valuables, useful items, or provisions will do.

Investigation: [roll0]

[Silent_p]

Marinelle is mildly disappointed to be missing out on the fireworks that sinking the slaver's ship would involve but stifles it well before approaching the captain's wife.

"If'n ye'd care to accompany me ma'am, we'll be gettin' ye settled,"" she says to the woman with a broad and friendly smile. She offers her arm in case it's required then leads the way toward the captain's quarters. "Just a short jaunt this way," she continues cheerfully. "Rest 'n hot grub'll help ye a bit. No rush, mind." As they walk the fairly short distance, Marinelle is able to chat extensively about the ship and how good a crew it has. "Meanin' no disrespect, ma'am, but didn't right catch yer name. What do we be callin' ye?" She asks as she pushes open the door to the cabin.

[Lentrax]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 33/48
HD: 4/4d10 SD: 2/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

Receiving no direct orders, Laz closes his eyes and nods, deferring to the earlier command of helping Master Borlin convert the wardroom. Walking across the gangplank to the Gambit, he offers his hand to anyone still crossing before tending to his duties, shuffling furniture about the wardroom to make space for stringing up hammocks and laying out bedding. Laz begins muttering excitedly to himself as he works, "The brutes had kidnapped the Captain's wife! That's quite a thing! And to think, there was no way of really knowing... but we might have fought with such zeal!..."

As the ramble and the work continue and eventually conclude, Laz clears his task with Borlin before returning to the main deck, intending to witness the sinking of the slaver vessel.

It appears that finding out the captain was married was going to be the topic of discussion amongst the crew for the coming weeks. Or until the next skirmish. It was what they were all speaking of as they begin tacking up the heavy canvas that passes for temporary walls aboard ship.

When you are finished, you check in with Master Borlin, and he tells you that you need to check in with the crew still on the other ship.




https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --


Josys nods to the captain, and can't help but smile. This is the first time the captain has entrusted her with any kind of task that shows trust is being placed in her.

"Tell Master Borlin I volunteer mine." she promptly tells Laz when she sees he's going that direction. It's not like she has any serious need for a bunk anyway. A little bit of extra comfort for her is certainly hardly a priority.

Then she gathers some of the stronger looking crew, because gods know she's not going to be able to move around any barrels full of powder, and tells them, "Captain says we're to use the powder aboard to get this ship ready to be sunk." And then with pride she leads them to do just that.

Once they're out of earshot she comments, "Captain didn't say we shouldn't take anything. So keep an eye out and we'll grab whatever looks valuable or useful on the way out."
And that task is really where her true attention lies, as it doesn't take a lot of effort to make sure the seasoned sailors arrange the barrels correctly and set up wicks so they can set them off from the safety of their own ship later.


In case I need a roll for finding stuff. Josys herself is most keen to find a 100gp pearl or 50gp diamond, but any valuables, useful items, or provisions will do.

Investigation: [roll0]






As you begin going through the various holds, distributing powder and laying down lines of powder (There is no fuse line, since it is too dangerous an item to have laying about, and none of the guns need them since they all utilize gunlocks for firing, rather than the old method of fuse and slow match.)

Your search doesn't yield anything of true value. A few assorted coins (8 gp and 3 sp), a small ring inset with an aquamarine crystal.


Marinelle is mildly disappointed to be missing out on the fireworks that sinking the slaver's ship would involve but stifles it well before approaching the captain's wife.

"If'n ye'd care to accompany me ma'am, we'll be gettin' ye settled,"" she says to the woman with a broad and friendly smile. She offers her arm in case it's required then leads the way toward the captain's quarters. "Just a short jaunt this way," she continues cheerfully. "Rest 'n hot grub'll help ye a bit. No rush, mind." As they walk the fairly short distance, Marinelle is able to chat extensively about the ship and how good a crew it has. "Meanin' no disrespect, ma'am, but didn't right catch yer name. What do we be callin' ye?" She asks as she pushes open the door to the cabin.

"My name is Ariana'lyleth'eindressa," the woman croaks out. "Thank you for saving us."

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

Josys mentally shrugs at the meager findings and just pockets the coin since it's not enough to split.... and she previously has literally no money on her. She takes the ring, but doesn't put it on yet. (She tries to determine if it's magical later on.)

When they're finished and everyone is back aboard, she reports to the captain that the ship is ready to be sunk.


Ritual casting Detect Magic when she finds a free moment.

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 33/48
HD: 4/4d10 SD: 2/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

As Laz makes his way back to the slaver vessel, he notices his hat atop one of the rescues' heads. Smiling, he lets it go, pondering what new hat he might purchase the next time they make port. Back aboard the enemy ship, he takes the names of those crewmates who would give up their cabins and bunk up to make space for the rescues. After giving instructions to the volunteers, Laz reports back to the Captain, informing her that accommodations were being made as they spoke.

[Silent_p]

Marinelle smiles at Ariana'lyleth'eindressa. ”Well, yer welcome ‘n all but cap’n is the one t’ thank in truth.” Once she’s inside and settled, Marinelle leaves the woman to rest. ”Ease up ‘n we’ll get ye some broth.”

She heads back on deck, looking around at the current state of affairs. With all seeming to be in hand, she finds the cook and has them get some broth made for distribution among the new arrivals. Then, she joins the others in reporting back to the captain.

[Lentrax]

Marinelle smiles at Ariana'lyleth'eindressa. ”Well, yer welcome ‘n all but cap’n is the one t’ thank in truth.” Once she’s inside and settled, Marinelle leaves the woman to rest. ”Ease up ‘n we’ll get ye some broth.”

She heads back on deck, looking around at the current state of affairs. With all seeming to be in hand, she finds the cook and has them get some broth made for distribution among the new arrivals. Then, she joins the others in reporting back to the captain.

“Thank you nonetheless,” she croaks.

***

You are all on the deck. Everyone has reported in to the captain, and all hands are confirmed to be back aboard the Gambit.

Captain Vess nods to the bosun. He lifts a keg of powder above his head, and another crewman lights the fuse poking out of the top. It begins to smoke and then with a mighty heave, the bosun throws the barrel onto the deck of the slaver ship. The fuse continues to burn, and then with a hiss the flame burns into the powder inside the keg, causing all of it to flare into a brief explosion, not large, but enough to catch the powder lines that lead more flame deep into the belly of the ship.

Josys and her crew did their jobs well, for a series of explosions rock the slaver ship, and it lists as it begins to rotate, its last remaining mast rolling around to face downward.

It continues to give off more smaller explosions as it begins to fall, slowly at first, but picking up speed as it continues to descend. Eventually, even those who watch the burning wreck fall give up as it sinks into a roiling black cloudbank of the perpetual magistorms.

Once the show is over, Captain Vess calls out her orders.

“Bring us back up to sailing elevation. Set a course for Tellarmae Isle. Get us underway, lads!”

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 33/48
HD: 4/4d10 SD: 2/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -


“Bring us back up to sailing elevation. Set a course for Tellarmae Isle. Get us underway, lads!”

"AYE, CAPTAIN!! TELLARMAE ISLE!" Making haste to his station, Laz begins plotting the course, the orders and headings translated from page to shouted orders to the heavy turn of the ship as it's brought around to catch new winds and heights.

Once the ship is underway, Laz turns his mind towards the poor souls they had just rescued, contemplating just how uncertain this must all seem for them. In the rush of action and movement, the man nearly forgot about the cut on his arm, but as the adrenaline wears off, the pain makes him ever-aware of the damage. He asks the Captain's permission for a short rest once the Gambit makes headway.

[Silent_p]

With the explosive demise of the slavers' ship, Marinelle takes a moment to savour its descent into the abyss below. The captain's orders cut this short but she promptly attends to her duties, the grin of satisfaction still present on her face for several minutes.

She spots Laz speaking to the captain and, her tasks complete for now, she approaches. Overhearing her companion's request for some respite, she takes stock of herself and notices some shallow cuts that need tending. Sidling up slightly, she grins at Laz and the captain. "Were hopin' t' get me feet up too, cap'n. If'n that be in order. Ship's all square right now," she says, with a brief glance around. "Might be a good time t' rest." She finishes, her grin widening a little.

[Lentrax]

The Lady's Gambit begins to rise back up to its previous altitude. The sails snap as they catch the winds, and the ship begins to turn as the helmsman begins to bring you around to your new course.

Captain Vess listens to your requests for a rest. "Very well. Boarding parties get an early evening. Before you go, please arrange repair crews to begin patching us up. And also, you three. I would ask you to join me in my cabin for supper."

With that, she dismisses you, and you go about following her orders. After you have had a chance to rest and clean yourselves to the best of your abilities, you head to the Captain's cabin. The door opens and the captain lets you in. You’ve been in the cabin a few times, and it was always sparse, with a few trinkets and decorations, just to add a little comfort to the cabin.

But now... there are soft things everywhere and in colors you would never have associated with the captain. Light blues and purples.

“Please, close the door behind you,” she says, as she goes back over to the bed, and goes back to what she was doing, namely, helping the occupant of her bed with a mid-sized bowl of broth.

Once she is satisfied that her wife is settled, she turns and heads over to the table where other foods are set. The captain opens a bench that is fixed to the floor, and withdraws a crystal decanter filled with a deep purple liquid. She sets it on the table, and then withdraws four glasses that she places on the table. She then closes the bench, and replaces the cushions that rested on it.

“Please, sit. Wine?”

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

"Oh, you've redecorated, how nice! Yes, thank you Captain." Josys says with a smile as she sits down and accepts a glass of wine.


Still waiting for results on my earlier Detect Magic btw.

[Lentrax]

“Yes,” Captain Vess starts as she pours the wine. “Well, considering that Ariana will be bedridden for a week at least, I thought I could at least make her comfortable here.”

She seats herself at the table, and gestures for you all to do the same.

“Now. Onto matters at hand. We did well today, recovered the people, including my wife, who were snatched from the Jandar Spire. The only problem is, is that the Spire is no longer there. The island has fallen down to Corata below, where ships sent to investigate have found a strange peculiarity. The storms for miles around the Spire, have abated, and we can see the world below clearly for the first time in living history.”

Nothing save what few things you had glow with the signs of inherent magic.

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 48/48
HD: 2/4d10 SD: 5/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

Laz had arrived a bit delayed to the soiree, nursing his injuries but ultimately feeling right as rain, if a bit groggy.

Upon hearing the Captain's news, however, he stands bolt upright, nearly spilling wine across the deck. "It cannot be! Why, this is... this is...," his voice falters, unable to contain his astonishment, "this is incredible! Do we know how it came to pass? What magics are involved? Were there any other survivors on The Spire?!" Sensing the awkwardness of his outburst, he apologizes to the Captain, and though Laz does his best to silence himself, he can barely manage, hanging onto every word the Captain says hereafter.

[Lentrax]

“If it is permanent, if the storms don’t ever return to the spire, then I’ll agree with ye, Mister Bookbinder. Now. As to why I’ve called you three in particular here. The Spire is, was, my home. It is why I tracked down that ship, which was the only one I knew to be of a less than reputable sort from those that were at the Spire when the island began to fall.”

The captain pauses for a moment. “As I said, the Spire was my home, and there are things I wish to reclaim from there in the event that the receding storms are less than permanent. You three have been more stalwart than some of the other crew I’ve hired. That is why I am asking you three in private to search the Spire for survivors. We will bring the Gambit down to just above storm depth, and take a survey from the air. And if everything goes well, we will dock with the uppermost spire we can.”

The captain looks deep into her cup as she contemplates how to go forward.

“This isn’t something I can order ye to do. You didn’t sign on to me crew for apparent suicide. If you don’t want to, I won’t force it out of you.”

Those who wish to can make History or Religion checks to see what you know about the Jandar Spire

[Silent_p]

Entering the captain’s cabin, Marinelle gives Ariana a brief nod and an encouraging smile before settling down and accepting a glass of wine with a broad grin. ”Could be gettin’ used t’ this,” she observes quietly to Josys, her grin turning wry.

With Laz’s arrival and the captain’s stunning announcement and subsequent request, Marinelle can’t help but laugh. “Yer tellin’ me that’s adventure t’ be had, mebbe some coin t’ be liberated an’ yer askin’ if’n I’d go?” She looks at the others, face delighted, then back to the captain. “Sure ye’d haf t’ tie me down t’ have a chance of stoppin’ me! Aye! Happy t’ be fetchin’ yer belongins an’ see about folks as may be down there!”

With that, she raises a toast and downs the last of her wine, grinning ear to ear.

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

Josys returns Marinelle wry grin with one of her own. And just as Marinelle finishes speaking Josys nods her head vigorously and very animatedly points at her and says, "Yes, exactly what she just said! This is fascinating! This kind of adventure is exactly what I'd hoped for! No! Better than I dreamed of!" she doesn't say anything more, but she's practically vibrating with excitement still even after she finishes speaking and sips her wine.


History: [roll0]

Religion: [roll1]

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 48/48
HD: 2/4d10 SD: 5/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

Sharing in the excitement, Laz downs his wine and sets his glass down for fear of accidentally breaking it in hand. "No, Captain, you need not order us! Remarkable stuff! Truly once in a lifetime! I'm sure you have some specifics as to what we are after, but to be there at all! How marvelous!" His thoughts sour a bit as he continues his inquiry, "Ahem... As far as survivors, I would suspect we won't be alone in searching-- after all, the slavers were less-than-savory... Have there been any other reports? And is there anyone we should be searching for in particular?"

[Lentrax]

“Most of the people, from what I have heard, and learned in the last weeks from messages dispatched to me, were evacuated on any ship that would take them. Most have made it safely to other isles. But truth be told, we do not know who may have survived or how.”

“As to my personal effects...” Captain Vess hesitates, as though trying to decide exactly what she should say. It is unusual to see her slightly unsure of herself, but she goes on.

“I have... a few chests that I would like to see returned to me. None of them are exceptionally important, excepting maybe one or two. They are made of Shadowood, so not very large considering how rare the wood is. Maybe two feet on a side?” She holds her hands in front of her to demonstrate the size.

“And again. I can’t emphasize this enough. I do not know if the storms will remain away. And each day that passes is another day where they may yet return. So, since you are all agreeing to this, I would recommend not spending too long lingering. Take the time you need to investigate, obviously, but don’t dally is all o will say.”

You would know from trade values, that two chests made of Shadowood of the size the captain describes are valuable enough to buy a ship comparable to the Lady’s Gambit.

[Silent_p]

Marinelle lets out a low whistle. "Not gonna lie, cap'n, that'd be quite the prize t' those not carin' so much 'bout yer goods. Might be some competition, if'n they're still where ye 'em." She claps her hands together with enthusiasm, a slow grin spreading across her face. "Course, the more the merrier," she says, almost savagely. She seems unconcerned about the dangers of the storm.

[Lentrax]

“Indeed it would. Which is why I want them retrieved. I can tell ye where they should be, and how to get to them. And considering where they should be, the only competition ye should have would be someone with a ship o’ their own, ready to run should they get caught.”

The captain sighs again. “Truth be told, I don’t much care if the chests are found, but the things in them... they cannot be replaced. That is the real reason we are going. Well, that and the fact that we have been tasked with investigating the island.”

She will answer any comments or questions for a bit, and then she moves on.

“Now,” she says running her temple. “We are headed to Tellarmae because there is an elven grove there, and it is where Ariana will be able to recover. We will drop off the other passengers there as well, and provide them with enough coin to set them up for a week or two and passage to wherever they think they can go.”

“It is a week to Tellarmae, and from there another week to the Spire if the winds favor us. We’ll be sailing within Serazi, so we shouldn’t encounter much in the way of pirates, but if word has spread about the Spire... Well. Expect anything.”

[Lentrax]

The journey to Tellarmae takes, as the captain said, a week. Your week is spent helping patch the hull, and repairing some of the damages caused by the battle with the slavers. But as you begin to dock with the isle, the Captain calls you all to hear her on the main deck.

"Now, remember, all o' ya. I have no qualms with ye who have magic, but not everyone shares my sentiments, so please, keep your abilities, and the abilities of ye're crew to y'erselves."

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

Josys nods at the captain's words, though she's not sure that she's particularly subtle about being a wizard with her crystal headed staff and Chione perched on her shoulder. "Maybe I should make sure I'm usually accompanied by someone." she thinks to herself.

Given that she doesn't have the coin yet to purchase that pearl or diamond she needs for two of her spells, she doesn't really have anything in particular to do here. So her main priority is just looking around to see the sights. "Does anyone else want to just wander around sightseeing?" she asks.

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 48/48
HD: 2/4d10 SD: 5/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

Laz steps onto the pier, taking in the view of the island and smiling all the while. Looking to Josys, he chimes in, "Yes, absolutely! I must make an inquiry someplace regarding a hat at some point, but that can be done any time! Sightseeing it is!"

[Silent_p]

Standing comfortably on the ship's railing, one hand holding a rope for safety, Marinelle grins at the captain and nods. "Aye, cap'n. We'll be takin' care t' attract just enough attention and not a hair more!" With a nod of farewell, she hops off to follow Laz and Josys.

As they head away from the ship, Marinelle positions herself between her companions and attempts to throw an arm over their shoulders - though it's more of a reach in Laz's case. "I'm havin' little doubt thar's plenty t' see an', long as we're visitin' that tavern t' start, I'm all game!" She says enthusiastically, trying to steer the trio toward the closest establishment.

If either want to shake her arm off or ask her to remove it, Marinelle will take it in stride and not resist or comply as appropriate.

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

Josys laughs a bit along with Marinelle's antics. "As long as we're not there too long. I'd prefer not to get personally involved in any brawls." she replies, clearly joking around.

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 48/48
HD: 2/4d10 SD: 5/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

A bit yanked down by the arm reaching up to him, Laz smiles and attempts to straighten himself up and lift Marinelle up a bit as she hangs on. "I wouldn't say no to a drink or two! Why, I'll even get the first round! It would certainly be a nice change of pace-- th-the ale, I mean, not me getting the first round, I should say, after all, I tend to volunteer whenever..."

His would-be ramble quiets in volume as he follows Marinelle's direction to the nearest tavern.

[Lentrax]

You enter the first tavern you find, which, according to the sign, is the Wandering Sprite.

Once inside, you are assailed by the spritely tune of a fiddle playing an upbeat song you recognize as “Wanderer’s Respite,” a song about the misadventures of the nameless wanderer as he stops at an inn by a river that happens to be home to a series of mischievous pixies, nixies, and other members of the fey.

A rather tall human woman comes up to you as you seat yourselves at the only empty table in the room, her fire red hair done in wavy spirals that run down to just past her shoulders.

“Welcome to the Wandering Sprite! Today is a bit of an unusual day, because the owner has made everyone’s first drink free today. But it is only for two drinks. The celebratory ale, or the commiseration wine. Which would you all like?”

As you look around, you do, in fact, see that not everyone is in such high spirits. Some are sitting quite morosely at their tables.

[Silent_p]

Still grinning, Marinelle ushers the others inside ahead of her. On entering ,she takes in the mixed atmosphere of the tavern but her mood remains buoyed by the musician. "Aye, well now that'd be delightful! I'll partake of the ale, good woman," she says cheerfully. As the other two order, she effortlessly whirls around an empty table and sits down, foot tapping in time to the music.

"What's the occasion of the day?"

[Lentrax]

“Well,” the woman begins. “If you’re celebrating, it’s because the Queen returned today. Of course, she’s only queen in name, but that doesn’t bother anyone ‘round here.”

“And,” she goes on, “if you’re sad it’s because you found out that Tellarmae’s champion was eliminated from the games in the second round.”

She smiles at the three of you. “So. The ale or the wine?”

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

Josys shrugs and says with her eyes shining with curiosity, "Ale then? But please, tell us all about this Queen and these games. Both topics sound promising if they're worthy of competing for free drinks."

[Lentrax]

“The queen? Ah, well, she’s the last of her family, you know. Ariana, Queen of the elves. A bit young for it, just over a hundred and thirty, but after her mother died defending the grove up in Aesteldred... Ah! Where are my wits?! I’ll be back with that ale.”

A few minutes later, and the woman returns, carrying three tankards of ale with her. She sets them down and then turns to start taking care of other tables in the common room.

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 48/48
HD: 2/4d10 SD: 5/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

Laz raises an eyebrow at the barmaid's information before raising a toast to the table. "Well, I suppose we should drink to Queen Ariana! Cheers!"

Are we to assume that Captain Ariana is the same as the Queen mentioned by the barmaid?

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

"Well, I suppose that was the end of that story." Josys comments with a shrug and then raises her tankard, says "Cheers!" and then drinks it. Not particularly fast or slow, just like... absolutely normal drinking.

[Silent_p]

Marinelle doesn't seem too interested in the queen and only half-heartedly raises her tankard in a toast. "Games, ye said? What do they be gettin' up to, then? And how much coin might be goin' about around them?" She smiles expectantly.

[Lentrax]

"The games? Ah, well, it is a event every year. Each isle sends one of their best athletes and they compete for glory and gold. I don't exactly know how much, but I know that the champions get paid for each event they win."

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 48/48
HD: 2/4d10 SD: 5/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

Putting his tankard on the table after a long sip, Laz inquires after the barmaid, "What kinds of events are there? Is it all about raw physical prowess?

[Lentrax]

"I really couldn't say. I've never attended the games, I just know what I've heard from others who went or participated. Now, I think I've been long enough. Excuse me, please."

[Silent_p]

Marinelle watches their server depart and, with a shrug, downs perhaps a third of her ale in one go. Smacking her lips, she looks at the other two. "Always that wee bit better on solid ground," she says appreciatively. After a quick glance around the tavern, she leans in. "Mood here about ain't what 'n I'd be callin' celebratory. Too many sour faces 'n all." She looks at Josys. "Listen t' some music, finish our ale 'n then think about movin' on, hmm?"

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

"We can skip the thinking about it and just get right to it." Josys jokes with a smile and takes another swig of her ale.

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 48/48
HD: 2/4d10 SD: 5/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

Laz takes a big swig of ale, doing his best not to spill as he savors the taste. "I agree with Josys, today is not so much a 'thinking' day as it is a 'doing' day. By the way, do we intend to continue hopping from bar to bar? Josys mentioned sightseeing - perhaps those games would be a sight to see!"

[Silent_p]

"Aye, that'd be the spirit!" Marinelle replies to both with a grin. "T' gettin' things done!" She toasts, raising her mug and taking a large moutful of ale. Wiping her lips with the back of her hand, she considers Laz's questions. "As t' the first," she says, counting off her points on her fingers as she talks, "if'n we happen 'cross a more upbeat locale, I'd be partial t' a quick flagon. An' wit' respect t' the second, sure t'would be rude not t' see what the fuss 'round these games is all about, no?" With a contented smile, she adjusts the cuffs of her jacket.

"Reckon there's all sorts a' trouble we could find too, if'n we went lookin'..." She says, a little too nonchalantly.

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

"There's only so much drink I can hold, so maybe after we've at least walked this one off?" Josys attempts to suggest, as she actually wants to remember her day.

[Silent_p]

Marinelle shrugs, seeming unbothered. ”Aye, sure we can do that.” She falls silent, listening to the musician for a moment. “An’ yerself?” She asks, turning to Laz. “What might be interestin’ t’ ye?”

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 48/48
HD: 2/4d10 SD: 5/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

"Well, 'trouble' might certainly be on the list of things to do - I should like to attempt that feint and riposte combination again - but I wouldn't say no to another ale on the way towards... well, whatever it is we move towards! Shall we find a place on the road to the games?" Laz works quickly on his ale, doing his best to keep up with Marinelle.

[Lentrax]

As you proceed through the port city, you pass by other bars, taverns and inns, all of which are in various stages of business.

Asking about, you are confirmed in what the woman told you before, that the games are not on this isle, and that the champion for Tellarmae returned after losing in the second round.

As you continue to walk, you find that there are a few sights on the isle, but the most impressive are within the elven forest that takes up most of the isle.

[Silent_p]

After a while wandering the town and dropping some silver on another mug of ale or two, Marinelle seems a little irked to learn that the forest might hold the majority of sights to be seen. "Well, if'n there's no games to be seein', will ye be wantin' t' venture into the forest, then? Seems like tis a bit more of a trek than I'd be bargainin' for..."

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

Josys had to stop walking off to the forest at the unexpected questioning on their path. "Well, that's what I was thinking of doing. Beats just sitting around in a bar the whole day." Clearly indicating her opinion of spending time in bars was maybe not quite at the heights of other pirates.

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 48/48
HD: 2/4d10 SD: 5/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

"A hike through the woods would be a nice way to walk off the alcohol. Perhaps we'll find a nice distraction within." Laz does his best to keep the peace, simply hoping to enjoy the day and the time spent ashore. The "dock rock" coupled with the influence of booze puts a swing and a swerve in his step as he walks with the group.

[Silent_p]

Letting out a long breath, Marinelle shrugs. "Aye, then," she says with a touch of resignation. "No gonna lie, I'd be preferin' the sights in the town but fair's fair, ye stopped off in a few taverns." Giving Josys a more genuine smile, she gestures ahead. "Lead on an' we'll see if'n there's somethin' t' surprise me!"

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

Josys smiles at the others and says, "I'm sure there's something to see. It's not like it's unoccupied."
While they walk she performs little magical tricks to entertain her companions.

[Lentrax]

You begin to venture out of the city. As you pass by the remains of the ancient city walls, most of which have been torn down and used to build other structures, you see the growing sight of the entrance to the elven forest. But the trees are still more than a mile away, and as the sounds of the city fade behind you, you are left with the peaceful tranquility of the rolling farmland, a gentle wind blowing through the wheat fields.

You have made it perhaps a half hours walk out of the city when you hear a call from behind you that a carriage is coming up the road. You turn, and you can see that it is your captain at the reins, driving the two horse carriage. She slows to a trot, and calls down to you.

"Headed for the grove yerselves?"

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

"Aye Captain, that we are!" Josys says like that for no better reason than because "I'm a pirate now". She looks at the carriage, hoping they'll get offered a ride as she's done a lot more standing and walking around for long periods of time in these last few weeks than she had for most of her life and her feet were already threatening to get a bit sore.

[Silent_p]

"Any place in particular ye'd be suggestin', cap'n? This one's keen t' see it all," Marinelle says with a friendly smile at Josys as she hooks a thumb in the elf's direction. "An' Laz can always use a pointer or two... though mostly fer his swordplay..." She adds with more of a grin at the man in question.

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 48/48
HD: 2/4d10 SD: 5/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

"Pfff--Ah! Well! Well, I..." The jab caught him off-guard; wit was always the most effective weapon to slip through Laz's defenses. "I mean to say, I could always use more training, and new techniques are always welcome to add to the repertoire-- but that's beside the point!" He straightened himself up, wiping the sweat off his brow before continuing. "We're more than open to suggestions, Captain - may we ask where you yourself are headed?"

[Lentrax]

"Well, I can tell you that there is not much on this island. Hasn't been anything terribly exciting for a thousand years, not since the elves purged the grove of what they called demons. Supposedly, there is some remnant of them behind the Crystal Falls. As for me, we are headed to the Silver Lakes. If you wish to call for supper ye'd be welcome, though I must ask you to send a runner ahead. The Silver Lakes area is home to some of the more 'upscale' families, and they might get nervous at seeing folks, especially a magic user, coming by. So just be careful. And if ye're intendin' on seeing the Falls, you take the right fork, followed by the left. And don't stray from the road. The elven Ways are still partially active, and every year some damn fool gets lost because they stumble upon the magic of the Ways."

[Ramsus]

https://i.pinimg.com/564x/a0/55/4c/a0554cfb1bdf80ebe8dc825ddf525371.jpg
Josys Holimion (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392663)
High Elf Wizard
AC: 13/16 HP: 32/32
PP: 9 PIv: 16 PIs: 9
Conditions: Mage Armor
Concentration: --

"Well if there's only one sight to see, I suppose that's the sight to see! Right?" Josys replies and looks to the others with excitement at this new prospect, apparently having completely disregarded the whole "demon" part.

[Silent_p]

Marinelle shrugs. "Can't fault yer reasonin'." She looks back up at the captain. "Thank ye, cap'n. We'll likely not be troublin' ye but, if'n that changes, we'll be sure t' give notice."

She claps her hands together, glancing at the others. "Best not t' be losin' the light, hmm?"

[StoneSeraph]

Laz Bookbinder (https://www.myth-weavers.com/sheet.html#id=2392130)
Human Astronomer, Duelist Battlemaster
AC: 16 HP: 48/48
HD: 2/4d10 SD: 5/5d8
PPrc: 10 PInv: 14 PIns: 12
Actives/Conditions: -

"Quite, yes! To the Falls!" Laz gestures down the path before starting on, enjoying the light breeze and the smell of the field basking in the sun. Seeing the forest gives him a surge of joy for the adventure ahead... "It'll be nice to have some shade in the trees, and a waterfall might be a fine place for a swim, now that I think about it!"

[Lentrax]

You continue following the road into the trees. As you do, you notice the temperature drops. Not enough to become cold or uncomfortable, but it is noticeable all the same.

The road becomes crossed with shadows, some deep, some light enough that you can see the rocks on the road you are travelling.

You get about an hour into the woods when you think you hear something coming from your left.

But what was it?

DM: Perception checks, please.

[Lentrax]

Laz is the one to notice the sound. Snapping branches, a seeming thunder from underfoot. The trees and brush nearby rustle as two boars charge out of the underbrush.

Roll initiative.

Josys and Marinelle are Surprised this round, But Laz is able to act as normal.

[Lentrax]

The boars charge forward, attempting to gore you on their tusks.

They charge across the path, letting out a squeal as they bear down on you.

Initiative order:
Marinelle
Boars
Laz
Josys

Attacks: Boar 1 (Attacking Laz): [roll0] D: [roll1]
Boar 2( Attacking Josys): [roll2] D: [roll3]

And because of the Surprise status, that brings us to Laz.