Ferris tips his head at the Captain, knowing full well that his shot may have been spoken of. "I won't lie sir, I took a chance. I am new to this ship but you are right, I have some old salt on me. I have been looking for a long while to rejoin a noble crew with a noble cause, so far I think I chose well," He says in a steady voice. He gestures to the pinkish paper, "That was the flying bird I assume?"
"Indeed, it is... or was rather, the flying paper bird sent our way by Captain Rufulo. The man is not averse to utilising magic where and when he can, the showier the better usually. As the letter makes clear, Rufulo wasn't too happy with a mysterious archer who almost killed his Master of Sail during today's contest. Thankfully, the officer is expected to recover and Rufulo acknowledges that he lost the bet all the same, but it pains me that someone was intentionally harmed during what was supposed to be a bit of harmless fun. I can't help but feel partially responsible.
The First Mate informed me that you were blameless in that attack, and in fact brought the incident to our attention even before Rufulo did, so I commend you for your candour. As for your other... actions, while I would normally condemn cheating in any gentleman's wager, the near fatal wounding of Rufulo's officer, the subsequent spells that were unleashed from both craft, as well as our own Navigator's... injury, make me consider a severed rope a minor concern in the greater scheme of things. However, the whole scenario did give me serious reason to doubt my own judgement for participating in such recklessness.
As you rightly said yourself, Ferris. A goodly ship should have a noble crew and cause, and such must always begin with the Captain."
The cloudy aspect that falls over the Captain's usually sunny features indicates how earnest he is in his self-recriminations. Clearly disagreeing with the Captain's evaluation of the day's events, Bosun Drannick speaks up,
"By Umberlees six salty secretions, Captain, I think yer takin' this a little personal like. Ye never meant fer no one to get hurt, we all be knowin' that. As fer ye, Ferris... great shot I say! Ye took a chance and it paid off fer both yer ship and yer Captain. Today's race was a game, a harmless gamble is all. We won, they lost, end of story. But next time we might be racin' fer deadlier stakes against a different stripe of fish. I say today was a good practice run, that's what I say. Hells, I just wish I knew who threw that cloud into the Foam's riggin' like that. I'd shake the sneaky bastard's hand I would. Thought it must 'ave been the Ship's Mage, but Virt swears it wasn't.
If anyone aught to be a little sore on today's race, it's our Navigator there... What with catchin' that arrow the way he did. But ye don't hear him mopin' about 'is sore arse. *Hehehe*"
The Bosun gives you a quick wink and throws the Navigator another evil grin. Most of the people seated at the table seem to share the Bosun's sentiments, denouncing that their Captain did anything wrong, toasting your timely shot and giving Kestrell a bit of a ribbing.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
"Don't you worry about me, Bosun Drannick, I relish the opportunity! Although I hope for her crew's sake that we find her fat and happy on Bonehill island."
The Bosun smiles like a barracuda and continues to chuckle, before pouring a bit more rum into his skull-shaped silver mug. At your mention of Bonehill Island though, Drannick's smile turns into something of a grimace.
It's the half-elf Balinor who speaks up though, giving you a clearly concerned glance as he does so, "If I'm free to speak my mind, I'd just as soon we found the missing ship somewhere else. We're not planning to land on that Island are we, Bosun?"
Drannick mutters something under his breath, but simply says, "We do as we need to get the job done, sailor. What the Captain tells us to. That's what we do."
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Kestrell looks with concern as he hears about the injuries. "Wait, someone shot a live arrow back at the ship? And we don't know who? We need to find out!"
Kestrell grins and laughs along with the good natured ribbing. "I still don't know how she made that shot! I mean, a moving target, from a moving platform, and the target wasn't that big, right?! It was a great shot!"
It's the half-elf Balinor who speaks up though, giving Kestrell a clearly concerned glance as he does so, "If I'm free to speak my mind, I'd just as soon we found the missing ship somewhere else. We're not planning to land on that Island are we, Bosun?"
"Balinor, what's wrong with Bonehill Island? I've never been there before, have you?"
A'ro looks at Kestrell and smiles "Oh you never heard the myths of Bonehill island." he takes a sip of wine and looks around and then to the Captain "Sir, do you mind if I tell and tale of the infamous isles that we head to. I wouldn't want to cause a spook on the ship before we sail there, but I'm sure a lot of the more experienced Sailors have already heard the tales." he was clearly being respectful and waiting for the Captains okay before just going into "I promise to debunk the myth after telling it, with the history of the island."
Kestrell looks with concern as he hears about the injuries. "Wait, someone shot a live arrow back at the ship? And we don't know who? We need to find out!"
Kestrell grins and laughs along with the good natured ribbing. "I still don't know how she made that shot! I mean, a moving target, from a moving platform, and the target wasn't that big, right?! It was a great shot!"
"Balinor, what's wrong with Bonehill Island? I've never been there before, have you?"
Somewhat mollified by the Bosun's words and the chorus of support he gets from the assembled crew, Captain Aundrey responds to your question about the archer,
"Right you are, Navigator. The First Mate and Bosun are already making enquiries, and I believe that the good Master of Sail there is likewise asking around. Since the culprit is clearly still aboard ship and likely to remain so for the forseeable future, I don't think we need to turn this into a full blown manhunt or otherwise disrupt the Shark's primary goal of finding the Wildyeast. But if any of you find out anything relevant, then please let either myself or one of the senior officers know immediately."
Beside you, the white-haired dwarf Hendle pauses in his exposition on superior Ironmaster brewing practices to chuckle along with your good natured praising of the shot you took,
"*Bwahaha* Clearly the target was big enough, Navigator. Might be them pastries I 'ear yer so fond of, ehh? Lucinda is a fine archer though, no doubtin'. Once saw 'er take a bottle out of a man's hands at seventy feet, from deck to crows nest that shot was. The fool topside got cut some due to the explodin' glass, but the arrow went clean through into the mast. Watched her climb up afterwards, cool as a Northern breeze, to get her missile back."
The half-elf Balinor adjusts his helmet slightly and pours himself a second mug of ale. Licking his lips before taking a drink, the experienced sailor says cautiously, as though possibly afraid of being mocked,
"I've sailed through the Knuckles before and even dropped anchor in Bonehill Bay once, though thankfully my then Captain was wise enough to keep all aboard ship. Bonehill's... haunted, Navigator. Some of the older locals here abouts swear that it's so! That night in the bay, we saw shapes shambling on the beach and heard unearthly cries coming from further ashore... up near the top of the hill where the old town is rumoured to have stood. I ain't no coward, but I don't have no congress with the walking dead and I'd not step foot on that island given a choice otherwise!"
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D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
A'ro looks at Kestrell and smiles "Oh you never heard the myths of Bonehill island." he takes a sip of wine and looks around and then to the Captain "Sir, do you mind if I tell and tale of the infamous isles that we head to. I wouldn't want to cause a spook on the ship before we sail there, but I'm sure a lot of the more experienced Sailors have already heard the tales." he was clearly being respectful and waiting for the Captains okay before just going into "I promise to debunk the myth after telling it, with the history of the island."
As you speak up with your offer, Captain Aundrey looks around for confirmation from his senior officers. Bosun Drannick narrows his eyes a little in your direction, giving the barest of shrugs but saying nothing, while First Mate E'strue gives you an appraising stare, but then nods somewhat cautiously to the ship's master. Captain Aundrey then says,
"Ahh, well, that should be fine, A'ro. Please, do share with us your knowledge of this area."
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
A’ro just smiles as he begins to talk “The history of Bonehill Island is centuries old. It was originally called Pigeonhill Island and it was beautiful. The small village that had been created there was a safe haven for all. In fact it was a nice harbor for ship heading to and from Bitter Shore and was known for its homing pigeons.”He takes a quick sip of his drink as a cold gust of wind moves throughout the dinner guests “About 80 years ago that all changed, when a man who had a desire to practice the darker side of magic began to experiment on the deceased villagers. When he was found out, the people of the island exiled him. You see they thought he would stay away.”As he says the word away the gust of wind returns slamming the door “But he didn’t, and when he came back he was different…his flesh was rotting and magic more dark then before. First he killed the mayor, it is said that his screams from that night can still be heard among the winds echoing through the ruins of the village. Next he took out each of the villages one-by-one. He wasn’t done with them though, legend has it he raised them from the dead to join him cursing the island for the villages to walk among the ruins never able to find rest.” A’ro took a sip of wine just looking around before continuing.
“As for the other island Corpsewave is the second largest and is rumored by old pirates to have buried treasure on it, unreachable since it is surrounded by shoals. Flintarrow named for it rough shape like an arrow is nothing to not except that it has a usable moorage, though it is also located in an area with a lot of shoals. Saltcarp is a small, rocky mass riddled with caves, though rumor has it to be home to magical seal-like creatures leading most Capt’ins to give it a wide-berth. Finally, in the chain in Pinkpoint which is nothing more than a rocky spire in the ocean.” He looks at the remaining people at the table “Any questions ladies and gentlemen?”
Clearly disagreeing with the Captain's evaluation of the day's events, Bosun Drannick speaks up,
"By Umberlees six salty secretions, Captain, I think yer takin' this a little personal like. Ye never meant fer no one to get hurt, we all be knowin' that. As fer ye, Ferris... great shot I say! Ye took a chance and it paid off fer both yer ship and yer Captain. Today's race was a game, a harmless gamble is all. We won, they lost, end of story. But next time we might be racin' fer deadlier stakes against a different stripe of fish. I say today was a good practice run, that's what I say. Hells, I just wish I knew who threw that cloud into the Foam's riggin' like that. I'd shake the sneaky bastard's hand I would. Thought it must 'ave been the Ship's Mage, but Virt swears it wasn't.
Hearing the Bosun mention his handy work Vaken nearly choked on his food. He quickly took a drink and was trying to composed himself while the ship's mage was telling his tale. Vaken need another moment after the door slam. He took another sip before looking over to A'ro with a grin, "Very well told sir mage. Enough to give me the chills and I'm immune to the cold."
Holding his tongue for any other praise he was sure A'ro would receive, Vaken waited his turn. Once the conversation hit another lull he started, "Bosun Drannick, sir, I was the one who put the cloud on the 'Foam. I was actually trying to put it in front of them thinking they'd slow to go around but I guess I didn't account for how fast they was moving, sir.
"That is fascinating, A'ro, just fascinating! It sounds like the 'Yeast could have run into some trouble. We had better make even more haste! Captain, do you believe these stories?"
A’ro just smiles as he begins to talk “The history of Bonehill Island is centuries old. It was originally called Pigeonhill Island and it was beautiful. The small village that had been created there was a safe haven for all. In fact it was a nice harbor for ship heading to and from Bitter Shore and was known for its homing pigeons.”He takes a quick sip of his drink as a cold gust of wind moves throughout the dinner guests “About 80 years ago that all changed, when a man who had a desire to practice the darker side of magic began to experiment on the deceased villagers. When he was found out, the people of the island exiled him. You see they thought he would stay away.”As he says the word away the gust of wind returns slamming the door “But he didn’t, and when he came back he was different…his flesh was rotting and magic more dark then before. First he killed the mayor, it is said that his screams from that night can still be heard among the winds echoing through the ruins of the village. Next he took out each of the villages one-by-one. He wasn’t done with them though, legend has it he raised them from the dead to join him cursing the island for the villages to walk among the ruins never able to find rest.” A’ro took a sip of wine just looking around before continuing.
“As for the other island Corpsewave is the second largest and is rumored by old pirates to have buried treasure on it, unreachable since it is surrounded by shoals. Flintarrow named for it rough shape like an arrow is nothing to not except that it has a usable moorage, though it is also located in an area with a lot of shoals. Saltcarp is a small, rocky mass riddled with caves, though rumor has it to be home to magical seal-like creatures leading most Capt’ins to give it a wide-berth. Finally, in the chain in Pinkpoint which is nothing more than a rocky spire in the ocean.” He looks at the remaining people at the table “Any questions ladies and gentlemen?”
performance check for the story of Bonehill Island: 18
Beginning your tale of the local haunted island, you see a few sceptical looks around the table, but by the time you get to the part about the undead creature returning to destroy the town and lay down the curse, most of the looks are decidedly less indifferent. Many of the sailors around the table look a little troubled by the tale and a few of those reach for a drink or to pour themselves another. As you finish speaking, the Captain casts the First Mate an enquiring eye, who for her part looks a little uncertain and shrugs non-commitally. The most shaken by the tale appears to be the half-elf Balinor who's suddenly pale complexion, wide eyes and shaking head give testament to his discomfort.
The Bosun's rough, barking laughter breaks the momentary tension as the old dwarf *bangs* his mug on the table and leaning towards you says with a grin,
"That there's the best ghost story I've 'eard this year, A'ro, and may the ***** Queen salt me tankard if'n I'm lyin'. I've 'eard plenty too in me time and there's always just enough truth in'em to warrant listenin'. Lucky it is fer us then that the Yeast ain't likely to be found in a town atop no hill, cursed or otherwise."
A few people chuckle at the incredulous thought of the Wildyeast somehow being stuck inland on top of a hill, which serves to help break the tension caused by your tale. As most proceed to either finish their meals or pour their last drinks, First Mate E'strue, whose focus has apparently returned fully to the gathering at hand, says,
"That was very... entertaining, A'ro. No disrespect intended, but if I had a gold piece for every sailor's tale I heard about ghosts, magical sea creatures and buried treasure, I'd not need to work another day in me life. Your information on the islands might prove very useful though. Captain Aundrey and I had already identified Bonehill as our best bet of finding the Wildyeast, but it may be that we'll need to check that other moorage ye mentioned. Suppose it's possible even that the trader ran afoul on one of them other islands. Well find out soon enough."
[OOC] Nice embalishment on the info you got from your nat20 history check there. And I liked the touch of drama with a pretty decent performance check as well. I'm thinking like a scary b-grade James Earl Jones monologue, though the later bit was more David Attenborough or Morgan Freeman. :)
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Hearing the Bosun mention his handy work Vaken nearly choked on his food. He quickly took a drink and was trying to composed himself while the ship's mage was telling his tale. Vaken need another moment after the door slam. He took another sip before looking over to A'ro with a grin, "Very well told sir mage. Enough to give me the chills and I'm immune to the cold."
Holding his tongue for any other praise he was sure A'ro would receive, Vaken waited his turn. Once the conversation hit another lull he started, "Bosun Drannick, sir, I was the one who put the cloud on the 'Foam. I was actually trying to put it in front of them thinking they'd slow to go around but I guess I didn't account for how fast they was moving, sir.
More than a few heads nod agreeably at your appraisal of the Master of Sail's tale. As you admit to conjuring the fog cloud however, a number of incredulous stares shift your way. Bosun Drannick blinks slowly a couple of times in your direction over the edge of his raised silver tankard, before the grey bearded dwarf lowers his drinking vessel and says slowly through froth-tipped whiskers,
"Well, well... Is that right, Cook? Ye conjured that cloud up, did ye? I might 'ave expected it of the oft surprisin' Master of Sail o'er there, but I'm a might surprised that it was ye who came up with that wee bit of trickery. Surpised... but no less impressed! Some day I might want to know the 'how' of that little feat.
Might be ye were right 'bout this one after all, E'strue. Seems he might be useful for more than just taking up space and cookin' a fine stew. Ha!"
The Captain seems equally surprised at your admission, while the First Mate gives you a firm nod and an almost beaming smile.
[OOC] You can make an insight check for Vaken if you wish and read the spoiler on a result of 12 or more:
Looking around the table, it seems most people are a little surprised at the revelation of your magical abilities. The only person who seems at all upset by the reveal, however, is the Weapons Master and Helmsman, Unne. The hulking Northman had just strongarmed the Quartermaster out of his remaining food when you spoke up. Now the large, hook handed warrior sits glowering at you over the bowl that he's currently slurping food from.
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D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
"That is fascinating, A'ro, just fascinating! It sounds like the 'Yeast could have run into some trouble. We had better make even more haste! Captain, do you believe these stories?"
The young Captain looks at you thoughtfully as the meal starts to wind up, pouring himself a second half-glass of wine while proffering the remaining half-bottle to anyone who would like to partake. Finally, he says somewhat reservedly,
"I... ahh, agree with the First Mate and Bosun. Such stories can be exaggerated, but also often contain important truths. I am not a local to these parts, so it is good to have officers aboard who are and can thereby speak to local learning and lore. As to the possibility of the Wildyeast being in trouble, I imagine that she is, in some form or another. Otherwise Captain Tolfur would have surely have sailed into Rumbottom Harbour by now.
But you are right, Kestrell, in that we should continue to make for their last sighting with all possible haste. We are a new vessel and crew, which means that every success and failure that we endure will undoubtedly go to our reputation as a ship in good standing. If we are to have any hope of gaining mooring in Fireshear and the chance to... well, let's just say that the success of our first voyage will go someway to opening better opportunities for us all."
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D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
A'ro just chuckles "No disrespect taken First Mate, it's just a story after all. If we were trying to hide from the law and pirate hunters - go to the scariest sounding place right. It eliminates many sailors from even joining a mission to search the water when they hear about where they maybe going. I'm sure that any pirate that maybe in the waters benefits as well, sailors have a way of adding myths to pirates that surround ghost stories. The truth is no one knows really what happen to change the island - though I do believe like you that myths come from some truth. We just need to be careful as we sail into those waters because of the shoals that surround some of the islands." he just sips his wine as he looks around.
Ferris leans back with his hands on his full stomach as the talk moves around the table. He had heard only of the town and haunted in the past so to hear the version of the tale was a treat. His gaze became solemn as the mention of tall tale sea monsters, knowing full well the horrible scope of what really lurked beneath the waves.
He changes his expression quickly, from haunted to calm, "I am willing to make a wager the Wildyeast is moored up at Bonehill. Five silver on the table." He lays a small silver stack in front of him.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Having had her first real experiences with magic and the undead only recently, the images of the rotting flesh sloughing off of zombies as she slashed at them with her blades remains fresh in Kay's mind. She sets down her utensils and takes up her wine cup, downing the rest and taking the captain's offer for more. Looking around to gauge the disposition of the others, she's shocked to see that many of the sailors don't take the story seriously.
Her appetite, lost, she rolls some of the food into a slice of bread and tucks it into her belt satchel at an opportune moment. sleight of hand : 18
A'ro just chuckles "No disrespect taken First Mate, it's just a story after all. If we were trying to hide from the law and pirate hunters - go to the scariest sounding place right. It eliminates many sailors from even joining a mission to search the water when they hear about where they maybe going. I'm sure that any pirate that maybe in the waters benefits as well, sailors have a way of adding myths to pirates that surround ghost stories. The truth is no one knows really what happen to change the island - though I do believe like you that myths come from some truth. We just need to be careful as we sail into those waters because of the shoals that surround some of the islands." he just sips his wine as he looks around.
At your suggestion about the possibility of the Wildyeast taking refuge at Bonehill to avoid the law and pirate hunters, First Mate E'strue replies thoughtfullly,
"That... actually makes sense when you put it that way, A'ro. Those shoals are a worry, no doubt, so it's a good thing that we have such a capable crew to make sure we stay off 'em! Back to our missing quarry though, bein' a chartered tradin' vessel on legal business, the Yeast has nothin' to fear from honest ships in these waters, though she would 'ave plenty of reasons to want to keep out of view of any pirates who might be trawlin' these waves and islands.
Captain, seein' as the meal is windin' down and some of ye 'ave a shift to take, perhaps now would be a proper time to mention that 'other' matter. Ehh?"
Ferris leans back with his hands on his full stomach as the talk moves around the table. He had heard only of the town and haunted in the past so to hear the version of the tale was a treat. His gaze became solemn as the mention of tall tale sea monsters, knowing full well the horrible scope of what really lurked beneath the waves.
He changes his expression quickly, from haunted to calm, "I am willing to make a wager the Wildyeast is moored up at Bonehill. Five silver on the table." He lays a small silver stack in front of him.
No sooner have you proposed the wager than the mostly quite up to this point Quartermaster whips out five silver pieces of his own and slaps them on the table, saying,
"I'll take that wager, Ferris! Being so long overdue, it seems to me that the Wildyeast's problems, whatever they might be, were probably the end of her. She wouldn't be the first ship to dissapear without a trace in these parts, not even the first this year. Err... though obviously I'm hoping that she's found safe and sound somewhere, ahh, of course."
Captain Aundrey frowns noticeably, but says nothing after a glance at both the First Mate and Bosun. However, most of the other sailors seem to share the Navigator's sentiments about betting on the Wildyeast's fate and refrain, but with a sigh, it's surprisingly the usually stoic Lionel who reaches for his coin purse, seeming almost fatalistic about the wager before asking,
"If ye have another another stake on ye, Ferris, then i'll take a piece of that action. My Annabelle always said betting was me weakness... that and me lack of ambition. And a few other things that I won't mention, come to think of it."
Having had her first real experiences with magic and the undead only recently, the images of the rotting flesh sloughing off of zombies as she slashed at them with her blades remains fresh in Kay's mind. She sets down her utensils and takes up her wine cup, downing the rest and taking the captain's offer for more. Looking around to gauge the disposition of the others, she's shocked to see that many of the sailors don't take the story seriously.
Her appetite, lost, she rolls some of the food into a slice of bread and tucks it into her belt satchel at an opportune moment. sleight of hand : 15
[OOC] No one seems to notice you swiping the last bit of food, though you barely manage to secrete it away before Unne's meaty paws begin shifting empty plates and bowls, searching for any remaining morsels.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
"What other matter would that be, Captain?" Kestrell asks, curiously.
Perhaps still considering his own recent wager that almost claimed a life, Captain Aundrey smiles and nods agreement at your unwillingness to gamble on the Wildyeast's fate. Pausing as you ask for clarifiation, he looks more than a little uncomfortable for a moment before another reassuring nod from the First Mate and a muttered comment from the Bosun, "Go on, Captain. Ye never promised'em a happy endin', so don't be 'fraid to tell it like it is." seems to steel they young ship masters nerve enough for him to continue,
"When I spoke with Cove Warden Golm this morning, he told me that he had just recieved word of numerous pirate sightings up and down the Shore. Word had been recieved from Fireshear that a number of murderous crews had been making forays against villages and small towns about fifty miles or so South of the city. It hasn't been confirmed, but apparently the Crimson Chain, Captain Brand's ship, was one of those sighted during the attacks. Not surprisingly, The Freeflag Privateers have sailed out of Blueflame Harbour in force to investigate and pursue.
Golm also said that a couple of seperate pirate attacks against merchant ships about a hundred miles South of Rumbottom had been reported, though no mention yet of any raids against that section of the coast itself. No word of which Captain's might be responsible and no sighting of any of the Accord's ships, but apart from whatever response Luskan decides to put forth... if any... then we may be the only privateer vessel in the vicinity capable of offering chase. For the time being though, we'll hold to our mission and keep close to Rumbottom as we've promised the Dubol we would.
And... with all the reports of pirate attacks taking place along the Shore, Golm was in an even darker mood than usual. He... he... I'm saddened to tell you that he was unwilling to listen to anything I, or Orlys, had to say on the matter and was unwilling to show any kind of clemency. He... well, I'm afraid to say that after hearing that Orlys had served aboard the Shoalheart beneath Captain Sand... he ordered that the bugbear be hung for his previous crimes immediately. I was dreading having to break the news to you as... as I know that some of you had hoped for a far different outcome."
The Captain himself pours the last of the wine into his goblet and takes a long drink, almost as if to wash a distasteful flavour from his mouth. Between mention of the pirate sightings and attacks, as well as Orlys' execution, a sombre and muted pall falls over the Officers Lounge and its occupants.
[OOC] If you want to, players should feel free to make history checks in group chat or via message to me if you would like to see what you know about the buccaneers and privateers mentioned above. Just a heads up that the DC is 12 for anyone proficient in history, 14 for anyone with the sailor background and 16 for everyone else.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
"Indeed, it is... or was rather, the flying paper bird sent our way by Captain Rufulo. The man is not averse to utilising magic where and when he can, the showier the better usually. As the letter makes clear, Rufulo wasn't too happy with a mysterious archer who almost killed his Master of Sail during today's contest. Thankfully, the officer is expected to recover and Rufulo acknowledges that he lost the bet all the same, but it pains me that someone was intentionally harmed during what was supposed to be a bit of harmless fun. I can't help but feel partially responsible.
The First Mate informed me that you were blameless in that attack, and in fact brought the incident to our attention even before Rufulo did, so I commend you for your candour. As for your other... actions, while I would normally condemn cheating in any gentleman's wager, the near fatal wounding of Rufulo's officer, the subsequent spells that were unleashed from both craft, as well as our own Navigator's... injury, make me consider a severed rope a minor concern in the greater scheme of things. However, the whole scenario did give me serious reason to doubt my own judgement for participating in such recklessness.
As you rightly said yourself, Ferris. A goodly ship should have a noble crew and cause, and such must always begin with the Captain."
The cloudy aspect that falls over the Captain's usually sunny features indicates how earnest he is in his self-recriminations. Clearly disagreeing with the Captain's evaluation of the day's events, Bosun Drannick speaks up,
"By Umberlees six salty secretions, Captain, I think yer takin' this a little personal like. Ye never meant fer no one to get hurt, we all be knowin' that. As fer ye, Ferris... great shot I say! Ye took a chance and it paid off fer both yer ship and yer Captain. Today's race was a game, a harmless gamble is all. We won, they lost, end of story. But next time we might be racin' fer deadlier stakes against a different stripe of fish. I say today was a good practice run, that's what I say. Hells, I just wish I knew who threw that cloud into the Foam's riggin' like that. I'd shake the sneaky bastard's hand I would. Thought it must 'ave been the Ship's Mage, but Virt swears it wasn't.
If anyone aught to be a little sore on today's race, it's our Navigator there... What with catchin' that arrow the way he did. But ye don't hear him mopin' about 'is sore arse. *Hehehe*"
The Bosun gives you a quick wink and throws the Navigator another evil grin. Most of the people seated at the table seem to share the Bosun's sentiments, denouncing that their Captain did anything wrong, toasting your timely shot and giving Kestrell a bit of a ribbing.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
The Bosun smiles like a barracuda and continues to chuckle, before pouring a bit more rum into his skull-shaped silver mug. At your mention of Bonehill Island though, Drannick's smile turns into something of a grimace.
It's the half-elf Balinor who speaks up though, giving you a clearly concerned glance as he does so, "If I'm free to speak my mind, I'd just as soon we found the missing ship somewhere else. We're not planning to land on that Island are we, Bosun?"
Drannick mutters something under his breath, but simply says, "We do as we need to get the job done, sailor. What the Captain tells us to. That's what we do."
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
Kestrell looks with concern as he hears about the injuries. "Wait, someone shot a live arrow back at the ship? And we don't know who? We need to find out!"
Kestrell grins and laughs along with the good natured ribbing. "I still don't know how she made that shot! I mean, a moving target, from a moving platform, and the target wasn't that big, right?! It was a great shot!"
"Balinor, what's wrong with Bonehill Island? I've never been there before, have you?"
A'ro looks at Kestrell and smiles "Oh you never heard the myths of Bonehill island." he takes a sip of wine and looks around and then to the Captain "Sir, do you mind if I tell and tale of the infamous isles that we head to. I wouldn't want to cause a spook on the ship before we sail there, but I'm sure a lot of the more experienced Sailors have already heard the tales." he was clearly being respectful and waiting for the Captains okay before just going into "I promise to debunk the myth after telling it, with the history of the island."
Campaigns:
Wildemount: The Felderwin Irregulars (2020) - Balassar Silverstone - Dragonborn Fighter (Rune Knight) Lv. 5 | Rise of TIamat - Aiwin Aralana - Wood Elf Fighter/Ranger (Arcane Archer/Gloom Stalker) Lv. 9
Somewhat mollified by the Bosun's words and the chorus of support he gets from the assembled crew, Captain Aundrey responds to your question about the archer,
"Right you are, Navigator. The First Mate and Bosun are already making enquiries, and I believe that the good Master of Sail there is likewise asking around. Since the culprit is clearly still aboard ship and likely to remain so for the forseeable future, I don't think we need to turn this into a full blown manhunt or otherwise disrupt the Shark's primary goal of finding the Wildyeast. But if any of you find out anything relevant, then please let either myself or one of the senior officers know immediately."
Beside you, the white-haired dwarf Hendle pauses in his exposition on superior Ironmaster brewing practices to chuckle along with your good natured praising of the shot you took,
"*Bwahaha* Clearly the target was big enough, Navigator. Might be them pastries I 'ear yer so fond of, ehh? Lucinda is a fine archer though, no doubtin'. Once saw 'er take a bottle out of a man's hands at seventy feet, from deck to crows nest that shot was. The fool topside got cut some due to the explodin' glass, but the arrow went clean through into the mast. Watched her climb up afterwards, cool as a Northern breeze, to get her missile back."
The half-elf Balinor adjusts his helmet slightly and pours himself a second mug of ale. Licking his lips before taking a drink, the experienced sailor says cautiously, as though possibly afraid of being mocked,
"I've sailed through the Knuckles before and even dropped anchor in Bonehill Bay once, though thankfully my then Captain was wise enough to keep all aboard ship. Bonehill's... haunted, Navigator. Some of the older locals here abouts swear that it's so! That night in the bay, we saw shapes shambling on the beach and heard unearthly cries coming from further ashore... up near the top of the hill where the old town is rumoured to have stood. I ain't no coward, but I don't have no congress with the walking dead and I'd not step foot on that island given a choice otherwise!"
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
As you speak up with your offer, Captain Aundrey looks around for confirmation from his senior officers. Bosun Drannick narrows his eyes a little in your direction, giving the barest of shrugs but saying nothing, while First Mate E'strue gives you an appraising stare, but then nods somewhat cautiously to the ship's master. Captain Aundrey then says,
"Ahh, well, that should be fine, A'ro. Please, do share with us your knowledge of this area."
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
A’ro just smiles as he begins to talk “The history of Bonehill Island is centuries old. It was originally called Pigeonhill Island and it was beautiful. The small village that had been created there was a safe haven for all. In fact it was a nice harbor for ship heading to and from Bitter Shore and was known for its homing pigeons.” He takes a quick sip of his drink as a cold gust of wind moves throughout the dinner guests “About 80 years ago that all changed, when a man who had a desire to practice the darker side of magic began to experiment on the deceased villagers. When he was found out, the people of the island exiled him. You see they thought he would stay away.” As he says the word away the gust of wind returns slamming the door “But he didn’t, and when he came back he was different…his flesh was rotting and magic more dark then before. First he killed the mayor, it is said that his screams from that night can still be heard among the winds echoing through the ruins of the village. Next he took out each of the villages one-by-one. He wasn’t done with them though, legend has it he raised them from the dead to join him cursing the island for the villages to walk among the ruins never able to find rest.” A’ro took a sip of wine just looking around before continuing.
“As for the other island Corpsewave is the second largest and is rumored by old pirates to have buried treasure on it, unreachable since it is surrounded by shoals. Flintarrow named for it rough shape like an arrow is nothing to not except that it has a usable moorage, though it is also located in an area with a lot of shoals. Saltcarp is a small, rocky mass riddled with caves, though rumor has it to be home to magical seal-like creatures leading most Capt’ins to give it a wide-berth. Finally, in the chain in Pinkpoint which is nothing more than a rocky spire in the ocean.” He looks at the remaining people at the table “Any questions ladies and gentlemen?”
OOC:
Using gust for the related effects
performance check for the story of Bonehill Island: 21
Campaigns:
Wildemount: The Felderwin Irregulars (2020) - Balassar Silverstone - Dragonborn Fighter (Rune Knight) Lv. 5 | Rise of TIamat - Aiwin Aralana - Wood Elf Fighter/Ranger (Arcane Archer/Gloom Stalker) Lv. 9
Hearing the Bosun mention his handy work Vaken nearly choked on his food. He quickly took a drink and was trying to composed himself while the ship's mage was telling his tale. Vaken need another moment after the door slam. He took another sip before looking over to A'ro with a grin, "Very well told sir mage. Enough to give me the chills and I'm immune to the cold."
Holding his tongue for any other praise he was sure A'ro would receive, Vaken waited his turn. Once the conversation hit another lull he started, "Bosun Drannick, sir, I was the one who put the cloud on the 'Foam. I was actually trying to put it in front of them thinking they'd slow to go around but I guess I didn't account for how fast they was moving, sir.
Campaigns:
DM - Waterdeep Dragon Heist PbP
"That is fascinating, A'ro, just fascinating! It sounds like the 'Yeast could have run into some trouble. We had better make even more haste! Captain, do you believe these stories?"
Beginning your tale of the local haunted island, you see a few sceptical looks around the table, but by the time you get to the part about the undead creature returning to destroy the town and lay down the curse, most of the looks are decidedly less indifferent. Many of the sailors around the table look a little troubled by the tale and a few of those reach for a drink or to pour themselves another. As you finish speaking, the Captain casts the First Mate an enquiring eye, who for her part looks a little uncertain and shrugs non-commitally. The most shaken by the tale appears to be the half-elf Balinor who's suddenly pale complexion, wide eyes and shaking head give testament to his discomfort.
The Bosun's rough, barking laughter breaks the momentary tension as the old dwarf *bangs* his mug on the table and leaning towards you says with a grin,
"That there's the best ghost story I've 'eard this year, A'ro, and may the ***** Queen salt me tankard if'n I'm lyin'. I've 'eard plenty too in me time and there's always just enough truth in'em to warrant listenin'. Lucky it is fer us then that the Yeast ain't likely to be found in a town atop no hill, cursed or otherwise."
A few people chuckle at the incredulous thought of the Wildyeast somehow being stuck inland on top of a hill, which serves to help break the tension caused by your tale. As most proceed to either finish their meals or pour their last drinks, First Mate E'strue, whose focus has apparently returned fully to the gathering at hand, says,
"That was very... entertaining, A'ro. No disrespect intended, but if I had a gold piece for every sailor's tale I heard about ghosts, magical sea creatures and buried treasure, I'd not need to work another day in me life. Your information on the islands might prove very useful though. Captain Aundrey and I had already identified Bonehill as our best bet of finding the Wildyeast, but it may be that we'll need to check that other moorage ye mentioned. Suppose it's possible even that the trader ran afoul on one of them other islands. Well find out soon enough."
[OOC] Nice embalishment on the info you got from your nat20 history check there. And I liked the touch of drama with a pretty decent performance check as well. I'm thinking like a scary b-grade James Earl Jones monologue, though the later bit was more David Attenborough or Morgan Freeman. :)
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
More than a few heads nod agreeably at your appraisal of the Master of Sail's tale. As you admit to conjuring the fog cloud however, a number of incredulous stares shift your way. Bosun Drannick blinks slowly a couple of times in your direction over the edge of his raised silver tankard, before the grey bearded dwarf lowers his drinking vessel and says slowly through froth-tipped whiskers,
"Well, well... Is that right, Cook? Ye conjured that cloud up, did ye? I might 'ave expected it of the oft surprisin' Master of Sail o'er there, but I'm a might surprised that it was ye who came up with that wee bit of trickery. Surpised... but no less impressed! Some day I might want to know the 'how' of that little feat.
Might be ye were right 'bout this one after all, E'strue. Seems he might be useful for more than just taking up space and cookin' a fine stew. Ha!"
The Captain seems equally surprised at your admission, while the First Mate gives you a firm nod and an almost beaming smile.
[OOC] You can make an insight check for Vaken if you wish and read the spoiler on a result of 12 or more:
Looking around the table, it seems most people are a little surprised at the revelation of your magical abilities. The only person who seems at all upset by the reveal, however, is the Weapons Master and Helmsman, Unne. The hulking Northman had just strongarmed the Quartermaster out of his remaining food when you spoke up. Now the large, hook handed warrior sits glowering at you over the bowl that he's currently slurping food from.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
The young Captain looks at you thoughtfully as the meal starts to wind up, pouring himself a second half-glass of wine while proffering the remaining half-bottle to anyone who would like to partake. Finally, he says somewhat reservedly,
"I... ahh, agree with the First Mate and Bosun. Such stories can be exaggerated, but also often contain important truths. I am not a local to these parts, so it is good to have officers aboard who are and can thereby speak to local learning and lore. As to the possibility of the Wildyeast being in trouble, I imagine that she is, in some form or another. Otherwise Captain Tolfur would have surely have sailed into Rumbottom Harbour by now.
But you are right, Kestrell, in that we should continue to make for their last sighting with all possible haste. We are a new vessel and crew, which means that every success and failure that we endure will undoubtedly go to our reputation as a ship in good standing. If we are to have any hope of gaining mooring in Fireshear and the chance to... well, let's just say that the success of our first voyage will go someway to opening better opportunities for us all."
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
A'ro just chuckles "No disrespect taken First Mate, it's just a story after all. If we were trying to hide from the law and pirate hunters - go to the scariest sounding place right. It eliminates many sailors from even joining a mission to search the water when they hear about where they maybe going. I'm sure that any pirate that maybe in the waters benefits as well, sailors have a way of adding myths to pirates that surround ghost stories. The truth is no one knows really what happen to change the island - though I do believe like you that myths come from some truth. We just need to be careful as we sail into those waters because of the shoals that surround some of the islands." he just sips his wine as he looks around.
Campaigns:
Wildemount: The Felderwin Irregulars (2020) - Balassar Silverstone - Dragonborn Fighter (Rune Knight) Lv. 5 | Rise of TIamat - Aiwin Aralana - Wood Elf Fighter/Ranger (Arcane Archer/Gloom Stalker) Lv. 9
Ferris leans back with his hands on his full stomach as the talk moves around the table. He had heard only of the town and haunted in the past so to hear the version of the tale was a treat. His gaze became solemn as the mention of tall tale sea monsters, knowing full well the horrible scope of what really lurked beneath the waves.
He changes his expression quickly, from haunted to calm, "I am willing to make a wager the Wildyeast is moored up at Bonehill. Five silver on the table." He lays a small silver stack in front of him.
Having had her first real experiences with magic and the undead only recently, the images of the rotting flesh sloughing off of zombies as she slashed at them with her blades remains fresh in Kay's mind. She sets down her utensils and takes up her wine cup, downing the rest and taking the captain's offer for more. Looking around to gauge the disposition of the others, she's shocked to see that many of the sailors don't take the story seriously.
Her appetite, lost, she rolls some of the food into a slice of bread and tucks it into her belt satchel at an opportune moment.
sleight of hand : 18
~♡~
"I'm a gambling man, Ferris, but I won't bet against the lives of a good ship and crew in peril."
At your suggestion about the possibility of the Wildyeast taking refuge at Bonehill to avoid the law and pirate hunters, First Mate E'strue replies thoughtfullly,
"That... actually makes sense when you put it that way, A'ro. Those shoals are a worry, no doubt, so it's a good thing that we have such a capable crew to make sure we stay off 'em! Back to our missing quarry though, bein' a chartered tradin' vessel on legal business, the Yeast has nothin' to fear from honest ships in these waters, though she would 'ave plenty of reasons to want to keep out of view of any pirates who might be trawlin' these waves and islands.
Captain, seein' as the meal is windin' down and some of ye 'ave a shift to take, perhaps now would be a proper time to mention that 'other' matter. Ehh?"
No sooner have you proposed the wager than the mostly quite up to this point Quartermaster whips out five silver pieces of his own and slaps them on the table, saying,
"I'll take that wager, Ferris! Being so long overdue, it seems to me that the Wildyeast's problems, whatever they might be, were probably the end of her. She wouldn't be the first ship to dissapear without a trace in these parts, not even the first this year. Err... though obviously I'm hoping that she's found safe and sound somewhere, ahh, of course."
Captain Aundrey frowns noticeably, but says nothing after a glance at both the First Mate and Bosun. However, most of the other sailors seem to share the Navigator's sentiments about betting on the Wildyeast's fate and refrain, but with a sigh, it's surprisingly the usually stoic Lionel who reaches for his coin purse, seeming almost fatalistic about the wager before asking,
"If ye have another another stake on ye, Ferris, then i'll take a piece of that action. My Annabelle always said betting was me weakness... that and me lack of ambition. And a few other things that I won't mention, come to think of it."
[OOC] No one seems to notice you swiping the last bit of food, though you barely manage to secrete it away before Unne's meaty paws begin shifting empty plates and bowls, searching for any remaining morsels.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
"What other matter would that be, Captain?" Kestrell asks, curiously.
Perhaps still considering his own recent wager that almost claimed a life, Captain Aundrey smiles and nods agreement at your unwillingness to gamble on the Wildyeast's fate. Pausing as you ask for clarifiation, he looks more than a little uncomfortable for a moment before another reassuring nod from the First Mate and a muttered comment from the Bosun, "Go on, Captain. Ye never promised'em a happy endin', so don't be 'fraid to tell it like it is." seems to steel they young ship masters nerve enough for him to continue,
"When I spoke with Cove Warden Golm this morning, he told me that he had just recieved word of numerous pirate sightings up and down the Shore. Word had been recieved from Fireshear that a number of murderous crews had been making forays against villages and small towns about fifty miles or so South of the city. It hasn't been confirmed, but apparently the Crimson Chain, Captain Brand's ship, was one of those sighted during the attacks. Not surprisingly, The Freeflag Privateers have sailed out of Blueflame Harbour in force to investigate and pursue.
Golm also said that a couple of seperate pirate attacks against merchant ships about a hundred miles South of Rumbottom had been reported, though no mention yet of any raids against that section of the coast itself. No word of which Captain's might be responsible and no sighting of any of the Accord's ships, but apart from whatever response Luskan decides to put forth... if any... then we may be the only privateer vessel in the vicinity capable of offering chase. For the time being though, we'll hold to our mission and keep close to Rumbottom as we've promised the Dubol we would.
And... with all the reports of pirate attacks taking place along the Shore, Golm was in an even darker mood than usual. He... he... I'm saddened to tell you that he was unwilling to listen to anything I, or Orlys, had to say on the matter and was unwilling to show any kind of clemency. He... well, I'm afraid to say that after hearing that Orlys had served aboard the Shoalheart beneath Captain Sand... he ordered that the bugbear be hung for his previous crimes immediately. I was dreading having to break the news to you as... as I know that some of you had hoped for a far different outcome."
The Captain himself pours the last of the wine into his goblet and takes a long drink, almost as if to wash a distasteful flavour from his mouth. Between mention of the pirate sightings and attacks, as well as Orlys' execution, a sombre and muted pall falls over the Officers Lounge and its occupants.
[OOC] If you want to, players should feel free to make history checks in group chat or via message to me if you would like to see what you know about the buccaneers and privateers mentioned above. Just a heads up that the DC is 12 for anyone proficient in history, 14 for anyone with the sailor background and 16 for everyone else.
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
At the mention of Orlys: "Oh no, that's terrible. He was a good bugbear."