Vaken looks to the captain with a question in his eyes. He will save the woman, but it would come better if someone in authority stepped in first.
'The Captain and his two senior officers have remained seated at their table throughout, eyes shifting between the now angry Cove Warden, the condemned woman and those noteworthy individuals who had come forward to speak on her behalf. Noticing Vaken's inquiring gaze, Captain Aundrey, who looks unmistakenly concerned for the now shackeled prisoner and seems to be studying the proceedings closely, looks displeased, but gives a slight shake of his head indicating a clear 'negative' to the unspoken question. Before returning to his work, however, the goliath notices the Bosun lean behind his Captain to whisper something to the Frist Mate.
For his part, the Cove Warden nods almost impercetably as the goliath Vaken returns from loading Gaut's body atop the cart, his gaze meeting the cook's briefly before shifting across to the second dead man's body. Vaken had passed by two more wardens who were stationed outside the tavern's door and as the goliath moves towards Dank's body, he passes two of the Wardens who had stood behind Golm that are now carrying Brannin's unconscious form out of the tavern.'
'Kay hasn't been paying attention to the world around her, instead focused on the eyes of the dead man. The voices and and shouting and goings on are blurred and dampened by the sound of her heart beating in her ear drums. She stares into Gaut's cold foggy eyes and blood drained face and shudders. She keeps staring at the dead man as the huge man drags his body and his bloodless stare is all the sees even after he has been removed from the room.'
'It isn't until the manacles are already about her wrists that she comes to, a dazed and confused look on her face. No less than you deservechides the voice in her head did you really think you would ever make something of yourself? You were born nothing, and that is all you will ever be. There is no struggle or defiance from her, no more words, no tears. Kay looks at the ground utterly defeated, and (other than refusing to speak) follows the wardens' every direction.'
'The two other wardens who were inside the tavern with Golm, the halforc with the mohawk named Sharn and the large, plain faced woman called Beatrice, move forward to put the manacles on Kay. Neither looks especially pleased to be doing so, and Warden Sharn gives the unresisting young woman a nod of appreciation at Kay's seeming cooperation, though the waif herself seems largely uncomprehending. Warden Beatrice places a hand on Kay's shoulder, turning her towards the tavern's door, saying not unkindly,'
"Let's get you back to the Lodge and clean you up. Maybe get a nice hot meal into you, eh?"
'Kestrell raises his Viol and plays a short snippet from a solemn tune, giving Virtoris some bardic inspiration.'
"Aye Captain. You have it right. But look at the size of her vs Gaut. She needs all the steel she has just to make it an even fight with that brute."
[OOC] Virtoris 1d6 to add to an ability check, attack roll or saving throw.
'Golm stops briefly to look at Kestrell, clearly considering the bard's words as he watches the despondent Kay being lead away at his orders, he merely shrugs and mutters in the eloquent man's direction as he moves towards the door,'
"She'd not have needed her blades at all if she'd just minded her own business."
[OOC] Since Kestrell's bardic inspiration is a bonus action, I'll count Kestrell's words to Golm as assistance for Virtoris's last ditch attempt to dissuade the Cove Warden.
"Then ye should arrest me too. I cou'd saved dat man, tis true. I have the magics to do so. He threatened her life, heard the words me'self. She drew steel, but what he promised was much worse." Virtoris the Blue said to the Wardens before continuing, "I will not stop ye from exacting yer justice. But this lass here, she is willing to put her life on the line fighting pirates on the Shore Shark. Let her become me ward. I will then take responsibility fer all her actions. Don't let a soul become lost in another dungeon, to find it's way to the darkness. We need all the help we can get hunting down them bastards on the seas."
What are you doing, Virty? He thought to himself. Scared, but sure that the light in this world would prevail.
'Golm stops abrubtly as the thin blue man with the pouches and staff begins an impassioned plea, one that has a number of hardened sailors around the inn nodding their heads in approval... but that leaves only an annoyed look on the face of the Cove Warden. Grinding his teeth together in a clear display of dwindling patience, the barrel-chested officer turns squarely to face Virtoris, spitting out his words,'
"I SHOULD clamp you in irons... if for no other reason than for your ceaseless blathering! Aye, she aided that one and the woman too - what of it? Should I then allow a 'so long as you're helping out a mate' defence for blood-letting and lawlessness in Rumbottom?
And send her off to fight pirates as punishment you say? So that others may think that they also can escape the justice of the Wardens so easily? Likely to jump ship as soon as they've made landfall elsewhere and equally likely to kill or cause trouble again in some other port!?!
I'd laugh at these notions of justice that you've put forward, but to me, justice is NO LAUGHING MATTER!!!"
'As Golm roars out the last three words, silence falls across the common room, all conversation ceasing and even Dimdin (who up until this point had continued to play his accordian at the table on the bar's stage - albeit a somewhat less jaunty tune following the two deaths) lets the music fade out, clearly sensing the dangerous level of frustration evident in the Cove Warden's words.
Taking a deep breath and exhaling slowly, Golm turns back towards the door, quietly muttering as he resumes his walk to the exit,'
"And don't worry. We have no dungeons in Rumbottom. It'll be done quick and she'll not suffer. You have MY word on that."
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...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
A'ro just stared at the girl as the shackles were getting put on "If she had minded her own business then it would be a lot more dead on this floor and not just the two. She gave them a fair warning and a chance to back off. She did everything right here and the man came at her, look at the size and muscular difference between these two. He choose to fight knowing the consequences that it could lead to, he was after her life not just some blood. They were after all of our lives. At worst cast her out of the town for a few months, she's headed out anyways meaning you won't have this to deal with."
He just looked at him and stood up, his voice keeping calm as he tried to help out the girl who just saved him "What kind of message are you sending to your citizens - that they should be victims. It's fine lass, don't defend yourself against the rapist. Oh sorry you got murdered buddy, but everyone who was watching didn't want to step in and be a good Samaritan - you know the gallows are horrible. You should arrest me then for being a blue magic wielding freak - since that's what instigated the fight. This mentality of don't stand up for wrong in the world - that's not just'ce, it's not law. It's a mentality that let's evil thrive and prosper. Her actions don't warrant the gallows or death. Please warden, I grew up in this town, come to love it because of it unique qualities and different people - don't send a message to the people that they can't defend themselves or others for fear they might get the gallows. We should be brought up to help people, protect people, and to treat others the way you want to be treated. That won't happen if you give this woman punishment for helping other."
"...Debts must always be paid, sometimes in more than blood and gold. But this is Ordo Ursa," Ren places his hand on Erakas's chest, right where the Dragonborn's heart is. "Right here. And it always has been and always will be. Don't ever forget that. Because I won't."
Serandis Mendaen (Aereni Elven Rogue/maybe one day Wizard)- Project Point Playtest
'Kay nods at Warden Beatrice's kind word much in the same way that she has been nodding as others speak to her, her eyes glazed over, her whole body and movements stiff. Murderer, Murderer, Murderer...The word rolls around in her mind with the image of Gaut yelling at folks, of Gaut taking a ball bearing to the forehead, of Gaut threatening Kay, of him and three of his fellows descending on her, blades drawn. A sudden calm came over her as she had a realization. This was the culmination of a life hard fought, she had come seeking to escape a life of crime, from having to resort to more and more desperate measures, from the need to sell herself at the Brazen Gentleman. And now she had an escape, if the fools and zealots were right maybe she would descend to one of the hells to suffer for all time, but surely not one of the Elysian planes. As Warden Beatrice touched her shoulder gently, she believed, she prayed she would descend into the darkness of sweet oblivion.'
'Her words come out softly, a hoarse whisper choking back tears as she responds to Beatrice's kindness.'
”Miss...what’s your name?” Virt will ask the girl, he never even learned her name. “I will come see you soon.”
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"...Debts must always be paid, sometimes in more than blood and gold. But this is Ordo Ursa," Ren places his hand on Erakas's chest, right where the Dragonborn's heart is. "Right here. And it always has been and always will be. Don't ever forget that. Because I won't."
Serandis Mendaen (Aereni Elven Rogue/maybe one day Wizard)- Project Point Playtest
'Kay looks up at the odd looking artificer with the kind voice and although she doesn't flinch or show dismay it's as if she's looking at him for the first time.'
"Kaitlyn... my mother called me Kay. Used to say, 'Y'can't spell luck without.'"
'Watching all this unfold, and at a loss for anything further that could be done to help, Kestrell raises his Viol once again and starts to play a slow, sad, tune.'
[OOC] Think the violin player on the Titanic as she sank.
'Kay nods at Warden Beatrice's kind word much in the same way that she has been nodding as others speak to her, her eyes glazed over, her whole body and movements stiff. Murderer, Murderer, Murderer...The word rolls around in her mind with the image of Gaut yelling at folks, of Gaut taking a ball bearing to the forehead, of Gaut threatening Kay, of him and three of his fellows descending on her, blades drawn. A sudden calm came over her as she had a realization. This was the culmination of a life hard fought, she had come seeking to escape a life of crime, from having to resort to more and more desperate measures, from the need to sell herself at the Brazen Gentleman. And now she had an escape, if the fools and zealots were right maybe she would descend to one of the hells to suffer for all time, but surely not one of the Elysian planes. As Warden Beatrice touched her shoulder gently, she believed, she prayed she would descend into the darkness of sweet oblivion.'
'Her words come out softly, a hoarse whisper choking back tears as she responds to Beatrice's kindness.'
"T... Thank you."
'Moving towards the inn's door, the half-orc Sharn clears a drunk sailor out of the way with a swift kick to the rump, to the muted hoots of his table mates... who are all still eyeing the incensed Cove Warden with some trepidation. Hearing Kay's murmured thanks, and perhaps sensing something of the fragility within her despondent captive, Warden Beatrice just squeezes Kay's upper arm as she marches her towards towards the exit, whispering in consolation as she also glances in Golm's direction,'
"Worry not... at least not about suffering or pain or anything like that. He's hard as stone and oft' as forgiving, but he's not a cruel man. Now come... it's best not to tarry when he's like this."
A'ro just stared at the girl as the shackles were getting put on "If she had minded her own business then it would be a lot more dead on this floor and not just the two. She gave them a fair warning and a chance to back off. She did everything right here and the man came at her, look at the size and muscular difference between these two. He choose to fight knowing the consequences that it could lead to, he was after her life not just some blood. They were after all of our lives. At worst cast her out of the town for a few months, she's headed out anyways meaning you won't have this to deal with."
He just looked at him and stood up, his voice keeping calm as he tried to help out the girl who just saved him "What kind of message are you sending to your citizens - that they should be victims. It's fine lass, don't defend yourself against the rapist. Oh sorry you got murdered buddy, but everyone who was watching didn't want to step in and be a good Samaritan - you know the gallows are horrible. You should arrest me then for being a blue magic wielding freak - since that's what instigated the fight. This mentality of don't stand up for wrong in the world - that's not just'ce, it's not law. It's a mentality that let's evil thrive and prosper. Her actions don't warrant the gallows or death. Please warden, I grew up in this town, come to love it because of it unique qualities and different people - don't send a message to the people that they can't defend themselves or others for fear they might get the gallows. We should be brought up to help people, protect people, and to treat others the way you want to be treated. That won't happen if you give this woman punishment for helping other."
[OOC] All PCs may make a perception check - results of 15 or more may read the spoiler:
'Conspicuous in their silence, you glance over to notice the Captain nodding with a smile upon his youthful face at A'ro's artfully delivered words, while the First Mate appears to be putting away a small wooden box and the now awake Bosun is picking up the Shore Shark's charter that many in the room had signed this very night. Bosun Drannick, glancing the way of the Cove Warden, has a wolf-like grin upon his face.'
'Golm is almost standing in the tavern's doorway, about to walk out into the swiftly cooling night, Kay and her two escorts ten feet behind, when the Shore Shark's newly designated Master of Sails steps forward and in a loud voice proceeds to argue for the young woman's life and liberty, along similar lines to the previous blue chap, but with even more eloquence and moralistic passion.
Conversation in the tavern had just started to resume, but at the blue man's ongoing proclamations, a hush, deathly in its near totalilty, falls over over the room. The only sounds to be heard now are the intermittent rattling of the tavern's windows as salt-rich early Summer breezes blow through, and a single breathless gasp made involuntarily by the pale faced barmaid Lorana as she sees the Cove Warden spin back into the room with an almost violent alacrity, all the more fear-inspiring for the sheer size of the man, who roars at not just A'ro, but at the room's entire gathering',
"ENOUGH!!! Gods above and below, I... AM... NOT... A... VISCIOUS... MAN, but your ceaseless jaw wagging and crocodile tears make me wish that the law of the land made pestering a Warden a hanging offence!!!
Do you all think that I like sending girls barely old enough to sip ale to the gallows? Do you think that I'm a monster, a villian who colours justice at a whim or for my own pleasure?!? Were it true, I'd be less likely to punish the girl on account of that shark bait lying in Vergil's cart, not more likely, of that you can be sure."
'With visible difficulty, the large man takes a moment to compose himself... a moment where one might have heard a pin drop, were anyone present foolish enough to risk dropping one.'
"I did NOT write the laws of this land, you durned fools, and it's not for me to waver them at the teary words of an accused's friends or kin. Much as I might wish it otherwise, and as a Warden it ain't my place to say whether I do or don't, the girl is GUILTY! Now, the next of you to question my decision on this..."
'An unexpected gruff voice pipes up then, its tone casual and curious, and in no way belligerant towards the now volatile Cove Warden,'
"No challenge to ye reasoning or right here, Warden, o' that ye can depend. Laws of land and sea we must abide, lest we become little better than the scum who hide out there in wait fer honest folk! And I be beggin' yer pardon for the interruption of yer rightful duty, but might I be askin'... what do ye laws say about ship's justice?"'
'All heads swing towards the Captain's table to see the Captain and First Mate seated, but the speaker, the Dwarven Bosun Drannick, is standing with his hand resting on the ship's charter. Golm seems surprised to recieve potential difficulties from this quarter and cautiously responds in a deliberate and measured voice,'
"Glad I am that you're not lookin' to interfere, ship's officer of the Shore Shark. This is Shore Law and Rumbottom business, not the Rule of the Sea to be decided by lot or Captain from the forecastle. But to answer your question, your ONE question... and briefly at that, Shore Law recognises ship's justice upon both ship and sea in the surroundin' waters, at least when administered by a lawfully appointed and chartered ship's Captain. Always has done, to the best of my knowledge. Why do you ask?"
'The dwarven bosun merely smiles a wolfish smile, tapping his bearded chin as he responds confidently, before lifting up and holding high the newly commissioned Shore Shark's charter,'
"Aye, I thought as much. Ever have the lords and ladies of the Shore respected the Rule of the Sea and the good Captains who deliver it... and smart they are to do so. How else would they get those necessaries and fineries that are so hard to find hereabouts. Yes, the Rule of the Sea AND Ship's Justice are both sarcosanct in these parts, as ye yourself rightly point out.
However, bein' an old sea-dog with the fleas of many ships upon me, I have to correct ye on one small error made in the statement of the basics of Ship's Justice. Ye see, the code holds quite clearly that 'A Captain, proper appointed and a-helm a lawfully chartered vessel in good standin', shall be the primary adjudicator of all matters involvin' ship and crew, aboard that vessel and others, atop the sea... or aground whilst docked'. In case ye be wonderin', that last bit means while on land... such as here, in Rumbottom, fer example."
'Resting one hand on the seated Captain Aundrey's shoulder at his side, the wiley dwarf waves the other hand, and the charter clutched in it, towards the shackled young woman who stands silently, head down, as though lost to the goings on about her. Almost gleefully, Brannick continues, opening the charter to it's last page, where a number of quite freshly scribbled signatures can be seen,'
"That bein' the case an' all, it solemly befalls me then to inform ye that the young Captain here has no choice really, but to pronounce proper punishment upon the undoubtedly guilty lass, much as it may displease any of us to take a hand in the rightful business of good port Rumbottom. Seein' as how, THIS right here, is the signature of that there lass, signed proper and before witnesses, no more than an hour previous to yer arrival...
Captain Aundrey, sir, how then would ye, rightful master of the lawful ship Shore Shark that ye are, have this darstadly wretch dealth with?
'Adopting the most serious expression and tone heard from him this night, the young Captain, with a mock apologetic nod to the Cove Warden, states in a surprisingly clear strong voice,'
"I, Captain Aundrey of the Shore Shark, pass judgement upon you criminal, accussed and convicted as you have been. For the crime of murder and other lawlessness within the town of Rumbottom, bringing into disrepute the good name of both your ship and Captain, I sentence you to serve with half-pay only aboard the Shark... for the rest of your days!"
'At the Captain's decree, all stares turn to the Cove Warden, many clearly expecting dispute or perhaps even an angry explosion, but the Watch Captain merely stands staring intensely at firstly the Captain, then the First Mate, and finally the Bosun. The moment of quiet stretches on, almost uncomfortably so... before Golm simply gives a curt nod, a brief glance flicking towards the down-trodden manacled waif, before turning on his heel to march from the room with the briefest of closing remarks,'
"So be it. See that she sails with the Shark and doesn't set foot in Rumbottom EVER again after that."
'As Golm departs and the Wardens release the stunned young woman, shouts and cheers begin to echo around the room, the majority of the sailors in the room apparently pleased with the outcome. As the still befuddled young woman is slapped on the back and congratulated, the First Mate stands, lifting her tankard high and calls out,'
"Three cheers for the Sea! Three cheers for Captain Aundrey! Three cheers for the Shore Shark! Long may she slice through the waves, devouring her foes!!!
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...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
'I may have been a little harsh on the man' he thought to himself as he listened to him. He was about to speak up again when the Bosun spoke up, immediately he held his words as he listened. As he watched the encounter he couldn't help the smirk that popped up his face, ship justice prevails again. Instinctively he raised his glass repeating the chant with them at the top of his lungs. A'ro just watched as the girl was freed and just waved her over "Lu'k-ay Kay of the Shore Shark, your drinks are on me for the rest of the night - so come get the first one lass. Repayment for saving my life."
He gripped the side of his body that had the wound from earlier as a small laugh escaped him, clearly still in pain. He just looked around taking in the various people who had stood up for the girl, giving each a nod if they happened to catch him. He couldn't help the smile that cross his lips as he realized this would be his new ship family for a while and what an interestin' lot they were going to be.
'Watching all this unfold, and at a loss for anything further that could be done to help, Kestrell raises his Viol once again and starts to play a slow, sad, tune.'
[OOC] Think the violin player on the Titanic as she sank.
'As the echos of the First Mate's toast die away, and as Dimdin's accordian starts back up, Kestrell catches sight of the buck-toothed, bug-eyed man, sitting at a table atop a raised platform in the room's corner, hunched over his instrument. Dimdin tilts his head to the side as he makes eye contact with the handsome minstrel... and then begins to play more feverishly!
[OOC] performance check 4 for Dimdin. Kestrell make a performance check.
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...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
"...Debts must always be paid, sometimes in more than blood and gold. But this is Ordo Ursa," Ren places his hand on Erakas's chest, right where the Dragonborn's heart is. "Right here. And it always has been and always will be. Don't ever forget that. Because I won't."
Serandis Mendaen (Aereni Elven Rogue/maybe one day Wizard)- Project Point Playtest
'Watching this turn of events unfold, a small smile starts to spread across Kestrell's face. 'Justice, but half pay for all of your days? I still don't think she was guilty of anything.' He thinks to himself.'
'Once it is clear that the cloaked lass will not be going to the gallows, Kestrell changes his sad tune to one a little faster, and then faster still. He catches the eye of Dimdin, and with a wink he matches Dimdin's tune.'
As the song picks up the pace, Kestrell starts to sing:
"A gathering of angels appeared above my head. They sang to me this song of hope and this is what they said. They said come sail away come sail away...Come sail away with me!"
'It takes Kay a long moment to realize what is happening, stuck in her ruminations as she is. It's not until the manacles come off that she realizes that she won't be hanging or going to prison. Suddenly all of the dark thoughts clear and she feels only gratitude, and the elation of being alive. Before she realizes it she's hugging Beatrice (maybe accidentally smearing some of Gaut's blood on her), then goes to hug Sharn or Golm, but gets intimidated, giving a short, nervous, curtsy instead saying'"Thank you..."
'She turns and waves at A'ro, then holds up her index finger trying to convey that she has something to do before she can come and talk to him. She approaches the captain's table and bows deeply clutching one hand to her chest.'"Thank you Captain Aundrey, First Mate E'strue, Bosun Drannick... for my life. I... uh... I only hope that I can make something of it."She stands straight, hoping she seems more professional this way, having forgotten that she's still spattered with blood."W... what will my duties entail?"
'Watching this turn of events unfold, a small smile starts to spread across Kestrell's face. 'Justice, but half pay for all of your days? I still don't think she was guilty of anything.' He thinks to himself.'
'Once it is clear that the cloaked lass will not be going to the gallows, Kestrell changes his sad tune to one a little faster, and then faster still. He catches the eye of Dimdin, and with a wink he matches Dimdin's tune.'
As the song picks up the pace, Kestrell starts to sing:
"A gathering of angels appeared above my head. They sang to me this song of hope and this is what they said. They said come sail away come sail away...Come sail away with me!"
'Kestrell begins to pick up both the tone and tempo with his viol and, casting a glance Dimdin's way, the bard notices that the hunched man is staring fiercely at him while furiously trying to lift his own game to match... though once a dawning look of realisation crosses the somewhat-malformed man's face that he can't match this clearly more skillful musician, instead of a look of anger or jealousy, the homely man merely sends a huge toothy grin Kestrell's way as he raises his old dented mug in a toast towards the now singing bard.
As the lyrics of Kestrell's beautifully appropriate song begin to drift above and between the bar's occupants, a few of the more crusty locals turn their heads in surprise, clearly taken aback at what is not normally the sort of music one hears in the Pirate. However, as the bard's song continues, heads begin to nod, and toes begin to tap, with the music clearly helping to settle jangled nerves after the recent fray and near death sentencing of the Shark's newest crew member.
Suddenly, the bard is almost caused to miss a note as a svelte but strong leather-clad arm reaches around his waist from behind and a silky smooth voice almost purrs into his ear,'
"That is a nice song, pretty one. And you seem like a nice man, to so boldly help our poor new deck hand so. I saw your trick with the blue block man and heard what you said about the fight. Very clever by the way. And you were right, of course - the man she killed was a bullying oaf and she'd have been a fool to get involved in a fist fight with those thugs. Of course, being right is not the same as being smart. Sometimes, pretty nice man, it is better to do nothing than to do the right thing..."
'The lithe, bald black skinned woman, who signed on earlier in the night as a ship's rigging rat and sail monkey, runs one hand through Kestrell's hair as she moves closely around his still playing form to take a seat at the table in front of him. Closer up, Kestrell can see that the attractive woman, while lean and short at only 5'6, appears supremely fit, her toned stomach rippling as she sits, visible due to the small break near the midsection of her light leather armour. The bold confidence of this sailor is also apparent, as she sits watching the bard play, a mock-coy look upon her small round face.'
"Tell me, singer of songs and saviour of young damsels, are you here merely to sing to sinful drunkards such as myself, or are you here for perhaps... a little more?"
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...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
'I may have been a little harsh on the man' he thought to himself as he listened to him. He was about to speak up again when the Bosun spoke up, immediately he held his words as he listened. As he watched the encounter he couldn't help the smirk that popped up his face, ship justice prevails again. Instinctively he raised his glass repeating the chant with them at the top of his lungs. A'ro just watched as the girl was freed and just waved her over "Lu'k-ay Kay of the Shore Shark, your drinks are on me for the rest of the night - so come get the first one lass. Repayment for saving my life."
He gripped the side of his body that had the wound from earlier as a small laugh escaped him, clearly still in pain. He just looked around taking in the various people who had stood up for the girl, giving each a nod if they happened to catch him. He couldn't help the smile that cross his lips as he realized this would be his new ship family for a while and what an interestin' lot they were going to be.
'Noticing the young woman's delaying hand signal as she moved to stand in front of the Captain's table and the Shark's three senior officers, Aro is in the process of inspecting his wounds, wincing from the pain in both shoulders, one severely bruised from Brannin's mace strike and the other still seeping blood from the dagger slash the sorcerer recieved.
"You should probably get those wounds of yours looked at... friend. Naskeen may be able to assist you, for a price of course. If not the herb woman, then maybe that junk peddler, Horgoth, may have something that could help. Though I'd not hold my breath on the latter."
'A'ro turns to look at the person who just spoke and sees a nicely dressed, brown haired man, stting alone at a table near the now unoccupied end of the bar. The fellow looks to have just finished his meal, though a still full glass of wine still sits before him. As the man nods towards A'ro's wounds, the barkeep Vergil hustles over to the table and takes the man's empty plate before backing away with a somewhat deferential nod and none of his usual hard-to-decipher foul mouthed commentary. Continuing to speak while his gaze languidly surveys those around the tavern, the man says,'
"Or if the wounds are not life-threatening, you could always just sleep them off. I'm sure that Vergil could provide you a room, especially if you were to say that Eamon said that he should. Which, of course, I'd be more than willing to do for a newly acquainted friend. Why don't you take a seat? It might help to lessen some of the pain of your injuries."
'The man casually indicates a spare chair at his table, though his stare continues to take in the room's other occupants.'
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...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
'It takes Kay a long moment to realize what is happening, stuck in her ruminations as she is. It's not until the manacles come off that she realizes that she won't be hanging or going to prison. Suddenly all of the dark thoughts clear and she feels only gratitude, and the elation of being alive. Before she realizes it she's hugging Beatrice (maybe accidentally smearing some of Gaut's blood on her), then goes to hug Sharn or Golm, but gets intimidated, giving a short, nervous, curtsy instead saying'"Thank you..."
'She turns and waves at A'ro, then holds up her index finger trying to convey that she has something to do before she can come and talk to him. She approaches the captain's table and bows deeply clutching one hand to her chest.'"Thank you Captain Aundrey, First Mate E'strue, Bosun Drannick... for my life. I... uh... I only hope that I can make something of it."She stands straight, hoping she seems more professional this way, having forgotten that she's still spattered with blood."W... what will my duties entail?"
'As the Cove Warden and the almost equally broad-shouldered half-orc exit the tavern, Warden Beatrice pauses in awkward confusion as her former captive embraces and thanks her.'
"Ahh, that's... okay? To be honest, little one, ain't none of it my doing. I just does me job, best that I'm able. Anyway, best of luck to you. And for your sake, PLEASE make sure you abide the term's of your punishment. Otherwise..."
'The Warden easily disentangles herself from the much smaller woman and hurries to catch up to her commanding officer and comrade.
Upon approaching the Captain's table to offer her thanks and ask after her duties aboard ship, all three of the individuals there stop speaking. The Captain merely smiles, while a frowning Bosun closes the ship's charter while muttering something darkly under his breath.
[OOC] Kay can make a perception check and may read the spoiler with a score of 15 or more:
"Bah! Yeah, don't worry, Brannick, theys tell ye. We can get by, Brann, theys say. I mean, who needs a Navigator, Surgeon or Carpenter, aboard ship, right Brann? I means just because we're sailing a wooden pirate hunting vessel in unfriendly waters, that's no matter. I'm sure we'll all be just fine..."
However, it is First Mate E'strue who responds to Kay's question in an openly brisk, no-nonsense manner,'
"Hello girl... Kay, wasn't it? I'll tell ye your first duty and that's to listen VERY carefully to what I am about to tell ye. None of us here would have liked to wake up to the sight of ye swinging in the 'Bottom's town square. Would have ruined my appepitite most likely, or at least put a dent in it. However, it was the Captain's goodly heart that caused us to speak for ye, saving yer wretched life, such that it is.
Do ye know what that means girl? That means that his word and standing as a Captain o'the Shore is now somewhat tied to yer lowly fate, short and uneventful though that fate may be. So my first order to ye is this - do NOT do anything that stupid again! In fact, do NOT even THINK about doing anything that stupid again! Are you hearing me deck hand Kay? Cause if ye do... well, I've seen a LOT of folk pass in my time, in a LOT of less than pleasant ways. A LOT of those unpleasant fates were met at sea and MOST of'em were met by fool young'ens doing stupid things their wiser and more experienced officers had told'em NOT to...
Do you think I'm being clear enough, Bosun Drannick?"
'The seemingly preoccupied man looks up at both women, though Kay's only a half dozen inches taller than the surly dwarf, who replies after a brief pause whilst sizing up the ship's newest member,'
"Errr, what's that? Clear, ye say? Oh, yes, First Mate, I'd say that you were at that... being clear that is!
Listen 'ere girl, once we're aboard the Shark, yer duties will be what e'er meself or another officer or a senior sailor - which'll most like be all of'em, mind you - tells you it is, though fer the most part you'll be swabbin' the deck, cleanin' the Shark's fittin's and fixtures, mendin' sails, checkin' ropes, helpin' the cook in the galley and anything else ye can do to help keep all'n''sundry above board.
On the odd excitin' occassion, yer job will be to NOT get killed when all hands are called fer action, NOR gettin' in the way of those doin' the fightin' or REAL sailin'. Ye may 'ave skewered that landlubber Gaut good'n'proper like, but that don't make ye no warrior in our eyes... ye hear? Followin' any actions, ye'll 'ave plenty more clean up to do - scrubbing the bloody deck, tossing severed body parts o'erboard and the like. We'll keep ye busy... 'ave no fear of that. Ha!"
But fer the 'morrow, you'll be practising out on the edge of town with a crossbow like all this other flotsam that we've just wasted good coin on. If'n ye are forced to help defend the ship, ***** Queen forbid, then I'd rather'n that ye didn't shoot me in the back'o the head by accident when we loose the first volley!"
'The Captain, who is wearing a slightly perturbed look upon his face, nonetheless graces his newest crew member with a wan smile, and says,'
"Mayhap you should first get some rest, Kay. Ship's life can take some getting used to and it would appear that your days on shore are numbered in more ways than one, at least when it comes to the goodport Rumbottom."
'The kindly Captain, older than Kay by a half-score of years, reaches out and brushes away a now dried fleck of blood from her cheek, before taking the charter from Brannick and placing it open before the younger woman. He indicates the nearby inkwell and quill as he whispers conspiratorially, with a not-so-subtle wink'
"But before you head off to rest and clean yourself up, maybe you should 're-sign' our charter, you know... just incase, since your 'other' signature looks somewhat indistinct..."
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...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
'Kay hears Brannick's mumblings but governs her emotions, feeling she has caused enough trouble for one evening. She clenches her mouth shut and if she could stand up any straighter when the First Mate speaks, she would be on her the tips of her toes. She nods to show she's listening and "yes ma'am"'s every question as the muscular woman speaks.'
'She relaxes imperceptibly when Brann speaks to her, but similarly nods the whole time he is speaking.'
'When Captain Aundry speaks, Kay looks up at him in awe, as if he might be the greatest hero the world has ever known. She blushes when he touches her cheek and turns her head bashfully. When he mentions that she should sign the charter she grabs for the pen hastily, and writes her name at the bottom, Kaitlyn Stillwater, crossing the previous one out.'
"Thank you Captain..." 'She says, a bit flustered,' "First Mate. Bosun." 'She says by way of excusing herself.'
'As she steps away she finally relaxes into her usual slouch, exhaling audibly. She goes to look for A'ro and finds him sitting with someone new.'
'Hi, you were asking after me? Oh... my apologies, I didn't mean to interrupt.' She says, a slight upturn of her lips as she's trying to be friendly, though there's still dry blood flecked on her face and clothes.
"Tell me, singer of songs and saviour of young damsels, are you here merely to sing to sinful drunkards such as myself, or are you here for perhaps... a little more?"
'Kestrell returns Dimdin's toast with a nod and a smile as he continues to sing, the song really kicking into high gear:'
"Come sail away, come sail away, come sail away with me! I thought that they were angles, but ot my surprise they climbed aboard their st.."
'Kestrell stutters as the arm reaches around his waist and the silky voice starts purring in his ear, and then, forgetting where he was in the song, quietly finishes:'
"Come sail.....away.....with me?"
'He turns to face the beautiful woman talking to him and gulps involuntarily before gathering himself.'
"I...ah...Why yes, I am here for a little more than singing to...sinful drunkards such as yourself..you say?"
Kestrell's eye's take her in, glancing up and down.
"That is sure some nice leather, how do you keep it so well...oiled?"
"But yes, I was here for something else, I'm just having trouble remembering what it was at the moment. Oh right! I came here looking for a ship needing someone to guide her. Didn't I see you talking to the captain earlier? Did you sign on yourself?"
"Tell me, singer of songs and saviour of young damsels, are you here merely to sing to sinful drunkards such as myself, or are you here for perhaps... a little more?"
'Kestrell returns Dimdin's toast with a nod and a smile as he continues to sing, the song really kicking into high gear:'
"Come sail away, come sail away, come sail away with me! I thought that they were angles, but ot my surprise they climbed aboard their st.."
'Kestrell stutters as the arm reaches around his waist and the silky voice starts purring in his ear, and then, forgetting where he was in the song, quietly finishes:'
"Come sail.....away.....with me?"
'He turns to face the beautiful woman talking to him and gulps involuntarily before gathering himself.'
"I...ah...Why yes, I am here for a little more than singing to...sinful drunkards such as yourself..you say?"
Kestrell's eye's take her in, glancing up and down.
"That is sure some nice leather, how do you keep it so well...oiled?"
"But yes, I was here for something else, I'm just having trouble remembering what it was at the moment. Oh right! I came here looking for a ship needing someone to guide her. Didn't I see you talking to the captain earlier? Did you sign on yourself?"
'The woman stretches to good effect as Kestrell takes her measure, before grabbing the mug of spiced rum placed before her by the timid Lorana, downing it in one long gulp. Wiping hermouth with the back of her hand, she responds to Kestrell's question... in a mock immitation of the quavering voice used by Kay to address the Captain and his officers earlier,'
"Who... me... why I never... Oh yes, I... I... I DID sign up, didn't I. Little 'ole me is going to keep the ship's rigging loose or taught as she needs to be, and the sails wrapped tight or blowing full as they needs to be... l mean, I will if... if my... my Captain... or you, you great big hero you... commands it of me!"
'She ends her mocking mimicry with a loud *HA!* that bounces of the nearby walls and, after deftly fetching the unexpecting Lorana a playful slap on the rump and demanding another rum, looks back at Kestrell with an eyebrow raised, a nod towards the Captains table and then continues in an almost challenging tone,'
"A ship with someone to guide her, huh? Well, as it would happen, I might just know of a ship and captain who'se hiring. Captain Aundrey's his name and he's a fine pup is our new Captain, though the two either side of him have ridden a swell or two in their day, no doubten that. You could be worth having aboard, singer, what with your illusions and that lovely singing voice of yours. That is... if you're as good at 'guiding' things as you seems to think you are...
My name's Zaretta by-the-bye. Not that you asked, least not with that pretty voice of yours. How's this, singer - if you get hired on as an officer, I just might be tempted to share the secrets of how I keep my leathers so... supple."
'The playful Zaretta giggles at her own humour, though her high-pitched voice and laugh are probably the only things even remotely girlish about the woman.'
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...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land DM Beyond the Bitter Shore DM Echos of a Burning Crown
'The Captain and his two senior officers have remained seated at their table throughout, eyes shifting between the now angry Cove Warden, the condemned woman and those noteworthy individuals who had come forward to speak on her behalf. Noticing Vaken's inquiring gaze, Captain Aundrey, who looks unmistakenly concerned for the now shackeled prisoner and seems to be studying the proceedings closely, looks displeased, but gives a slight shake of his head indicating a clear 'negative' to the unspoken question. Before returning to his work, however, the goliath notices the Bosun lean behind his Captain to whisper something to the Frist Mate.
For his part, the Cove Warden nods almost impercetably as the goliath Vaken returns from loading Gaut's body atop the cart, his gaze meeting the cook's briefly before shifting across to the second dead man's body. Vaken had passed by two more wardens who were stationed outside the tavern's door and as the goliath moves towards Dank's body, he passes two of the Wardens who had stood behind Golm that are now carrying Brannin's unconscious form out of the tavern.'
'The two other wardens who were inside the tavern with Golm, the halforc with the mohawk named Sharn and the large, plain faced woman called Beatrice, move forward to put the manacles on Kay. Neither looks especially pleased to be doing so, and Warden Sharn gives the unresisting young woman a nod of appreciation at Kay's seeming cooperation, though the waif herself seems largely uncomprehending. Warden Beatrice places a hand on Kay's shoulder, turning her towards the tavern's door, saying not unkindly,'
"Let's get you back to the Lodge and clean you up. Maybe get a nice hot meal into you, eh?"
'Golm stops briefly to look at Kestrell, clearly considering the bard's words as he watches the despondent Kay being lead away at his orders, he merely shrugs and mutters in the eloquent man's direction as he moves towards the door,'
"She'd not have needed her blades at all if she'd just minded her own business."
[OOC] Since Kestrell's bardic inspiration is a bonus action, I'll count Kestrell's words to Golm as assistance for Virtoris's last ditch attempt to dissuade the Cove Warden.
"Then ye should arrest me too. I cou'd saved dat man, tis true. I have the magics to do so. He threatened her life, heard the words me'self. She drew steel, but what he promised was much worse." Virtoris the Blue said to the Wardens before continuing, "I will not stop ye from exacting yer justice. But this lass here, she is willing to put her life on the line fighting pirates on the Shore Shark. Let her become me ward. I will then take responsibility fer all her actions. Don't let a soul become lost in another dungeon, to find it's way to the darkness. We need all the help we can get hunting down them bastards on the seas."
What are you doing, Virty? He thought to himself. Scared, but sure that the light in this world would prevail.
'Golm stops abrubtly as the thin blue man with the pouches and staff begins an impassioned plea, one that has a number of hardened sailors around the inn nodding their heads in approval... but that leaves only an annoyed look on the face of the Cove Warden. Grinding his teeth together in a clear display of dwindling patience, the barrel-chested officer turns squarely to face Virtoris, spitting out his words,'
"I SHOULD clamp you in irons... if for no other reason than for your ceaseless blathering! Aye, she aided that one and the woman too - what of it? Should I then allow a 'so long as you're helping out a mate' defence for blood-letting and lawlessness in Rumbottom?
And send her off to fight pirates as punishment you say? So that others may think that they also can escape the justice of the Wardens so easily? Likely to jump ship as soon as they've made landfall elsewhere and equally likely to kill or cause trouble again in some other port!?!
I'd laugh at these notions of justice that you've put forward, but to me, justice is NO LAUGHING MATTER!!!"
'As Golm roars out the last three words, silence falls across the common room, all conversation ceasing and even Dimdin (who up until this point had continued to play his accordian at the table on the bar's stage - albeit a somewhat less jaunty tune following the two deaths) lets the music fade out, clearly sensing the dangerous level of frustration evident in the Cove Warden's words.
Taking a deep breath and exhaling slowly, Golm turns back towards the door, quietly muttering as he resumes his walk to the exit,'
"And don't worry. We have no dungeons in Rumbottom. It'll be done quick and she'll not suffer. You have MY word on that."
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...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
A'ro just stared at the girl as the shackles were getting put on "If she had minded her own business then it would be a lot more dead on this floor and not just the two. She gave them a fair warning and a chance to back off. She did everything right here and the man came at her, look at the size and muscular difference between these two. He choose to fight knowing the consequences that it could lead to, he was after her life not just some blood. They were after all of our lives. At worst cast her out of the town for a few months, she's headed out anyways meaning you won't have this to deal with."
He just looked at him and stood up, his voice keeping calm as he tried to help out the girl who just saved him "What kind of message are you sending to your citizens - that they should be victims. It's fine lass, don't defend yourself against the rapist. Oh sorry you got murdered buddy, but everyone who was watching didn't want to step in and be a good Samaritan - you know the gallows are horrible. You should arrest me then for being a blue magic wielding freak - since that's what instigated the fight. This mentality of don't stand up for wrong in the world - that's not just'ce, it's not law. It's a mentality that let's evil thrive and prosper. Her actions don't warrant the gallows or death. Please warden, I grew up in this town, come to love it because of it unique qualities and different people - don't send a message to the people that they can't defend themselves or others for fear they might get the gallows. We should be brought up to help people, protect people, and to treat others the way you want to be treated. That won't happen if you give this woman punishment for helping other."
OOC: persuasion check: 25
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
Persuasion 6 plus Bardic Inspiration 6
"...Debts must always be paid, sometimes in more than blood and gold. But this is Ordo Ursa," Ren places his hand on Erakas's chest, right where the Dragonborn's heart is. "Right here. And it always has been and always will be. Don't ever forget that. Because I won't."
Serandis Mendaen (Aereni Elven Rogue/maybe one day Wizard)- Project Point Playtest
'Kay nods at Warden Beatrice's kind word much in the same way that she has been nodding as others speak to her, her eyes glazed over, her whole body and movements stiff. Murderer, Murderer, Murderer... The word rolls around in her mind with the image of Gaut yelling at folks, of Gaut taking a ball bearing to the forehead, of Gaut threatening Kay, of him and three of his fellows descending on her, blades drawn. A sudden calm came over her as she had a realization. This was the culmination of a life hard fought, she had come seeking to escape a life of crime, from having to resort to more and more desperate measures, from the need to sell herself at the Brazen Gentleman. And now she had an escape, if the fools and zealots were right maybe she would descend to one of the hells to suffer for all time, but surely not one of the Elysian planes. As Warden Beatrice touched her shoulder gently, she believed, she prayed she would descend into the darkness of sweet oblivion.'
'Her words come out softly, a hoarse whisper choking back tears as she responds to Beatrice's kindness.'
"T... Thank you."
~♡~
”Miss...what’s your name?” Virt will ask the girl, he never even learned her name. “I will come see you soon.”
"...Debts must always be paid, sometimes in more than blood and gold. But this is Ordo Ursa," Ren places his hand on Erakas's chest, right where the Dragonborn's heart is. "Right here. And it always has been and always will be. Don't ever forget that. Because I won't."
Serandis Mendaen (Aereni Elven Rogue/maybe one day Wizard)- Project Point Playtest
'Kay looks up at the odd looking artificer with the kind voice and although she doesn't flinch or show dismay it's as if she's looking at him for the first time.'
"Kaitlyn... my mother called me Kay. Used to say, 'Y'can't spell luck without.'"
'She scoffs at her own words.'
~♡~
'Watching all this unfold, and at a loss for anything further that could be done to help, Kestrell raises his Viol once again and starts to play a slow, sad, tune.'
[OOC] Think the violin player on the Titanic as she sank.
'Moving towards the inn's door, the half-orc Sharn clears a drunk sailor out of the way with a swift kick to the rump, to the muted hoots of his table mates... who are all still eyeing the incensed Cove Warden with some trepidation. Hearing Kay's murmured thanks, and perhaps sensing something of the fragility within her despondent captive, Warden Beatrice just squeezes Kay's upper arm as she marches her towards towards the exit, whispering in consolation as she also glances in Golm's direction,'
"Worry not... at least not about suffering or pain or anything like that. He's hard as stone and oft' as forgiving, but he's not a cruel man. Now come... it's best not to tarry when he's like this."
[OOC] All PCs may make a perception check - results of 15 or more may read the spoiler:
'Conspicuous in their silence, you glance over to notice the Captain nodding with a smile upon his youthful face at A'ro's artfully delivered words, while the First Mate appears to be putting away a small wooden box and the now awake Bosun is picking up the Shore Shark's charter that many in the room had signed this very night. Bosun Drannick, glancing the way of the Cove Warden, has a wolf-like grin upon his face.'
'Golm is almost standing in the tavern's doorway, about to walk out into the swiftly cooling night, Kay and her two escorts ten feet behind, when the Shore Shark's newly designated Master of Sails steps forward and in a loud voice proceeds to argue for the young woman's life and liberty, along similar lines to the previous blue chap, but with even more eloquence and moralistic passion.
Conversation in the tavern had just started to resume, but at the blue man's ongoing proclamations, a hush, deathly in its near totalilty, falls over over the room. The only sounds to be heard now are the intermittent rattling of the tavern's windows as salt-rich early Summer breezes blow through, and a single breathless gasp made involuntarily by the pale faced barmaid Lorana as she sees the Cove Warden spin back into the room with an almost violent alacrity, all the more fear-inspiring for the sheer size of the man, who roars at not just A'ro, but at the room's entire gathering',
"ENOUGH!!! Gods above and below, I... AM... NOT... A... VISCIOUS... MAN, but your ceaseless jaw wagging and crocodile tears make me wish that the law of the land made pestering a Warden a hanging offence!!!
Do you all think that I like sending girls barely old enough to sip ale to the gallows? Do you think that I'm a monster, a villian who colours justice at a whim or for my own pleasure?!? Were it true, I'd be less likely to punish the girl on account of that shark bait lying in Vergil's cart, not more likely, of that you can be sure."
'With visible difficulty, the large man takes a moment to compose himself... a moment where one might have heard a pin drop, were anyone present foolish enough to risk dropping one.'
"I did NOT write the laws of this land, you durned fools, and it's not for me to waver them at the teary words of an accused's friends or kin. Much as I might wish it otherwise, and as a Warden it ain't my place to say whether I do or don't, the girl is GUILTY! Now, the next of you to question my decision on this..."
'An unexpected gruff voice pipes up then, its tone casual and curious, and in no way belligerant towards the now volatile Cove Warden,'
"No challenge to ye reasoning or right here, Warden, o' that ye can depend. Laws of land and sea we must abide, lest we become little better than the scum who hide out there in wait fer honest folk! And I be beggin' yer pardon for the interruption of yer rightful duty, but might I be askin'... what do ye laws say about ship's justice?"'
'All heads swing towards the Captain's table to see the Captain and First Mate seated, but the speaker, the Dwarven Bosun Drannick, is standing with his hand resting on the ship's charter. Golm seems surprised to recieve potential difficulties from this quarter and cautiously responds in a deliberate and measured voice,'
"Glad I am that you're not lookin' to interfere, ship's officer of the Shore Shark. This is Shore Law and Rumbottom business, not the Rule of the Sea to be decided by lot or Captain from the forecastle. But to answer your question, your ONE question... and briefly at that, Shore Law recognises ship's justice upon both ship and sea in the surroundin' waters, at least when administered by a lawfully appointed and chartered ship's Captain. Always has done, to the best of my knowledge. Why do you ask?"
'The dwarven bosun merely smiles a wolfish smile, tapping his bearded chin as he responds confidently, before lifting up and holding high the newly commissioned Shore Shark's charter,'
"Aye, I thought as much. Ever have the lords and ladies of the Shore respected the Rule of the Sea and the good Captains who deliver it... and smart they are to do so. How else would they get those necessaries and fineries that are so hard to find hereabouts. Yes, the Rule of the Sea AND Ship's Justice are both sarcosanct in these parts, as ye yourself rightly point out.
However, bein' an old sea-dog with the fleas of many ships upon me, I have to correct ye on one small error made in the statement of the basics of Ship's Justice. Ye see, the code holds quite clearly that 'A Captain, proper appointed and a-helm a lawfully chartered vessel in good standin', shall be the primary adjudicator of all matters involvin' ship and crew, aboard that vessel and others, atop the sea... or aground whilst docked'. In case ye be wonderin', that last bit means while on land... such as here, in Rumbottom, fer example."
'Resting one hand on the seated Captain Aundrey's shoulder at his side, the wiley dwarf waves the other hand, and the charter clutched in it, towards the shackled young woman who stands silently, head down, as though lost to the goings on about her. Almost gleefully, Brannick continues, opening the charter to it's last page, where a number of quite freshly scribbled signatures can be seen,'
"That bein' the case an' all, it solemly befalls me then to inform ye that the young Captain here has no choice really, but to pronounce proper punishment upon the undoubtedly guilty lass, much as it may displease any of us to take a hand in the rightful business of good port Rumbottom. Seein' as how, THIS right here, is the signature of that there lass, signed proper and before witnesses, no more than an hour previous to yer arrival...
Captain Aundrey, sir, how then would ye, rightful master of the lawful ship Shore Shark that ye are, have this darstadly wretch dealth with?
'Adopting the most serious expression and tone heard from him this night, the young Captain, with a mock apologetic nod to the Cove Warden, states in a surprisingly clear strong voice,'
"I, Captain Aundrey of the Shore Shark, pass judgement upon you criminal, accussed and convicted as you have been. For the crime of murder and other lawlessness within the town of Rumbottom, bringing into disrepute the good name of both your ship and Captain, I sentence you to serve with half-pay only aboard the Shark... for the rest of your days!"
'At the Captain's decree, all stares turn to the Cove Warden, many clearly expecting dispute or perhaps even an angry explosion, but the Watch Captain merely stands staring intensely at firstly the Captain, then the First Mate, and finally the Bosun. The moment of quiet stretches on, almost uncomfortably so... before Golm simply gives a curt nod, a brief glance flicking towards the down-trodden manacled waif, before turning on his heel to march from the room with the briefest of closing remarks,'
"So be it. See that she sails with the Shark and doesn't set foot in Rumbottom EVER again after that."
'As Golm departs and the Wardens release the stunned young woman, shouts and cheers begin to echo around the room, the majority of the sailors in the room apparently pleased with the outcome. As the still befuddled young woman is slapped on the back and congratulated, the First Mate stands, lifting her tankard high and calls out,'
"Three cheers for the Sea! Three cheers for Captain Aundrey! Three cheers for the Shore Shark! Long may she slice through the waves, devouring her foes!!!
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...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
'I may have been a little harsh on the man' he thought to himself as he listened to him. He was about to speak up again when the Bosun spoke up, immediately he held his words as he listened. As he watched the encounter he couldn't help the smirk that popped up his face, ship justice prevails again. Instinctively he raised his glass repeating the chant with them at the top of his lungs. A'ro just watched as the girl was freed and just waved her over "Lu'k-ay Kay of the Shore Shark, your drinks are on me for the rest of the night - so come get the first one lass. Repayment for saving my life."
He gripped the side of his body that had the wound from earlier as a small laugh escaped him, clearly still in pain. He just looked around taking in the various people who had stood up for the girl, giving each a nod if they happened to catch him. He couldn't help the smile that cross his lips as he realized this would be his new ship family for a while and what an interestin' lot they were going to be.
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
'As the echos of the First Mate's toast die away, and as Dimdin's accordian starts back up, Kestrell catches sight of the buck-toothed, bug-eyed man, sitting at a table atop a raised platform in the room's corner, hunched over his instrument. Dimdin tilts his head to the side as he makes eye contact with the handsome minstrel... and then begins to play more feverishly!
[OOC] performance check 4 for Dimdin. Kestrell make a performance check.
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...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
5
"...Debts must always be paid, sometimes in more than blood and gold. But this is Ordo Ursa," Ren places his hand on Erakas's chest, right where the Dragonborn's heart is. "Right here. And it always has been and always will be. Don't ever forget that. Because I won't."
Serandis Mendaen (Aereni Elven Rogue/maybe one day Wizard)- Project Point Playtest
[OOC] Perception Check: Perception 16
'Watching this turn of events unfold, a small smile starts to spread across Kestrell's face. 'Justice, but half pay for all of your days? I still don't think she was guilty of anything.' He thinks to himself.'
'Once it is clear that the cloaked lass will not be going to the gallows, Kestrell changes his sad tune to one a little faster, and then faster still. He catches the eye of Dimdin, and with a wink he matches Dimdin's tune.'
[OOC] Performance: 17
As the song picks up the pace, Kestrell starts to sing:
"A gathering of angels appeared above my head. They sang to me this song of hope and this is what they said. They said come sail away come sail away...Come sail away with me!"
'It takes Kay a long moment to realize what is happening, stuck in her ruminations as she is. It's not until the manacles come off that she realizes that she won't be hanging or going to prison. Suddenly all of the dark thoughts clear and she feels only gratitude, and the elation of being alive. Before she realizes it she's hugging Beatrice (maybe accidentally smearing some of Gaut's blood on her), then goes to hug Sharn or Golm, but gets intimidated, giving a short, nervous, curtsy instead saying' "Thank you..."
'She turns and waves at A'ro, then holds up her index finger trying to convey that she has something to do before she can come and talk to him. She approaches the captain's table and bows deeply clutching one hand to her chest.' "Thank you Captain Aundrey, First Mate E'strue, Bosun Drannick... for my life. I... uh... I only hope that I can make something of it." She stands straight, hoping she seems more professional this way, having forgotten that she's still spattered with blood. "W... what will my duties entail?"
~♡~
'Kestrell begins to pick up both the tone and tempo with his viol and, casting a glance Dimdin's way, the bard notices that the hunched man is staring fiercely at him while furiously trying to lift his own game to match... though once a dawning look of realisation crosses the somewhat-malformed man's face that he can't match this clearly more skillful musician, instead of a look of anger or jealousy, the homely man merely sends a huge toothy grin Kestrell's way as he raises his old dented mug in a toast towards the now singing bard.
As the lyrics of Kestrell's beautifully appropriate song begin to drift above and between the bar's occupants, a few of the more crusty locals turn their heads in surprise, clearly taken aback at what is not normally the sort of music one hears in the Pirate. However, as the bard's song continues, heads begin to nod, and toes begin to tap, with the music clearly helping to settle jangled nerves after the recent fray and near death sentencing of the Shark's newest crew member.
Suddenly, the bard is almost caused to miss a note as a svelte but strong leather-clad arm reaches around his waist from behind and a silky smooth voice almost purrs into his ear,'
"That is a nice song, pretty one. And you seem like a nice man, to so boldly help our poor new deck hand so. I saw your trick with the blue block man and heard what you said about the fight. Very clever by the way. And you were right, of course - the man she killed was a bullying oaf and she'd have been a fool to get involved in a fist fight with those thugs. Of course, being right is not the same as being smart. Sometimes, pretty nice man, it is better to do nothing than to do the right thing..."
'The lithe, bald black skinned woman, who signed on earlier in the night as a ship's rigging rat and sail monkey, runs one hand through Kestrell's hair as she moves closely around his still playing form to take a seat at the table in front of him. Closer up, Kestrell can see that the attractive woman, while lean and short at only 5'6, appears supremely fit, her toned stomach rippling as she sits, visible due to the small break near the midsection of her light leather armour. The bold confidence of this sailor is also apparent, as she sits watching the bard play, a mock-coy look upon her small round face.'
"Tell me, singer of songs and saviour of young damsels, are you here merely to sing to sinful drunkards such as myself, or are you here for perhaps... a little more?"
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...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
'Noticing the young woman's delaying hand signal as she moved to stand in front of the Captain's table and the Shark's three senior officers, Aro is in the process of inspecting his wounds, wincing from the pain in both shoulders, one severely bruised from Brannin's mace strike and the other still seeping blood from the dagger slash the sorcerer recieved.
"You should probably get those wounds of yours looked at... friend. Naskeen may be able to assist you, for a price of course. If not the herb woman, then maybe that junk peddler, Horgoth, may have something that could help. Though I'd not hold my breath on the latter."
'A'ro turns to look at the person who just spoke and sees a nicely dressed, brown haired man, stting alone at a table near the now unoccupied end of the bar. The fellow looks to have just finished his meal, though a still full glass of wine still sits before him. As the man nods towards A'ro's wounds, the barkeep Vergil hustles over to the table and takes the man's empty plate before backing away with a somewhat deferential nod and none of his usual hard-to-decipher foul mouthed commentary. Continuing to speak while his gaze languidly surveys those around the tavern, the man says,'
"Or if the wounds are not life-threatening, you could always just sleep them off. I'm sure that Vergil could provide you a room, especially if you were to say that Eamon said that he should. Which, of course, I'd be more than willing to do for a newly acquainted friend. Why don't you take a seat? It might help to lessen some of the pain of your injuries."
'The man casually indicates a spare chair at his table, though his stare continues to take in the room's other occupants.'
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...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
'As the Cove Warden and the almost equally broad-shouldered half-orc exit the tavern, Warden Beatrice pauses in awkward confusion as her former captive embraces and thanks her.'
"Ahh, that's... okay? To be honest, little one, ain't none of it my doing. I just does me job, best that I'm able. Anyway, best of luck to you. And for your sake, PLEASE make sure you abide the term's of your punishment. Otherwise..."
'The Warden easily disentangles herself from the much smaller woman and hurries to catch up to her commanding officer and comrade.
Upon approaching the Captain's table to offer her thanks and ask after her duties aboard ship, all three of the individuals there stop speaking. The Captain merely smiles, while a frowning Bosun closes the ship's charter while muttering something darkly under his breath.
[OOC] Kay can make a perception check and may read the spoiler with a score of 15 or more:
"Bah! Yeah, don't worry, Brannick, theys tell ye. We can get by, Brann, theys say. I mean, who needs a Navigator, Surgeon or Carpenter, aboard ship, right Brann? I means just because we're sailing a wooden pirate hunting vessel in unfriendly waters, that's no matter. I'm sure we'll all be just fine..."
However, it is First Mate E'strue who responds to Kay's question in an openly brisk, no-nonsense manner,'
"Hello girl... Kay, wasn't it? I'll tell ye your first duty and that's to listen VERY carefully to what I am about to tell ye. None of us here would have liked to wake up to the sight of ye swinging in the 'Bottom's town square. Would have ruined my appepitite most likely, or at least put a dent in it. However, it was the Captain's goodly heart that caused us to speak for ye, saving yer wretched life, such that it is.
Do ye know what that means girl? That means that his word and standing as a Captain o'the Shore is now somewhat tied to yer lowly fate, short and uneventful though that fate may be. So my first order to ye is this - do NOT do anything that stupid again! In fact, do NOT even THINK about doing anything that stupid again! Are you hearing me deck hand Kay? Cause if ye do... well, I've seen a LOT of folk pass in my time, in a LOT of less than pleasant ways. A LOT of those unpleasant fates were met at sea and MOST of'em were met by fool young'ens doing stupid things their wiser and more experienced officers had told'em NOT to...
Do you think I'm being clear enough, Bosun Drannick?"
'The seemingly preoccupied man looks up at both women, though Kay's only a half dozen inches taller than the surly dwarf, who replies after a brief pause whilst sizing up the ship's newest member,'
"Errr, what's that? Clear, ye say? Oh, yes, First Mate, I'd say that you were at that... being clear that is!
Listen 'ere girl, once we're aboard the Shark, yer duties will be what e'er meself or another officer or a senior sailor - which'll most like be all of'em, mind you - tells you it is, though fer the most part you'll be swabbin' the deck, cleanin' the Shark's fittin's and fixtures, mendin' sails, checkin' ropes, helpin' the cook in the galley and anything else ye can do to help keep all'n''sundry above board.
On the odd excitin' occassion, yer job will be to NOT get killed when all hands are called fer action, NOR gettin' in the way of those doin' the fightin' or REAL sailin'. Ye may 'ave skewered that landlubber Gaut good'n'proper like, but that don't make ye no warrior in our eyes... ye hear? Followin' any actions, ye'll 'ave plenty more clean up to do - scrubbing the bloody deck, tossing severed body parts o'erboard and the like. We'll keep ye busy... 'ave no fear of that. Ha!"
But fer the 'morrow, you'll be practising out on the edge of town with a crossbow like all this other flotsam that we've just wasted good coin on. If'n ye are forced to help defend the ship, ***** Queen forbid, then I'd rather'n that ye didn't shoot me in the back'o the head by accident when we loose the first volley!"
'The Captain, who is wearing a slightly perturbed look upon his face, nonetheless graces his newest crew member with a wan smile, and says,'
"Mayhap you should first get some rest, Kay. Ship's life can take some getting used to and it would appear that your days on shore are numbered in more ways than one, at least when it comes to the goodport Rumbottom."
'The kindly Captain, older than Kay by a half-score of years, reaches out and brushes away a now dried fleck of blood from her cheek, before taking the charter from Brannick and placing it open before the younger woman. He indicates the nearby inkwell and quill as he whispers conspiratorially, with a not-so-subtle wink'
"But before you head off to rest and clean yourself up, maybe you should 're-sign' our charter, you know... just incase, since your 'other' signature looks somewhat indistinct..."
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...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
'Kay hears Brannick's mumblings but governs her emotions, feeling she has caused enough trouble for one evening. She clenches her mouth shut and if she could stand up any straighter when the First Mate speaks, she would be on her the tips of her toes. She nods to show she's listening and "yes ma'am"'s every question as the muscular woman speaks.'
'She relaxes imperceptibly when Brann speaks to her, but similarly nods the whole time he is speaking.'
'When Captain Aundry speaks, Kay looks up at him in awe, as if he might be the greatest hero the world has ever known. She blushes when he touches her cheek and turns her head bashfully. When he mentions that she should sign the charter she grabs for the pen hastily, and writes her name at the bottom, Kaitlyn Stillwater, crossing the previous one out.'
"Thank you Captain..." 'She says, a bit flustered,' "First Mate. Bosun." 'She says by way of excusing herself.'
'As she steps away she finally relaxes into her usual slouch, exhaling audibly. She goes to look for A'ro and finds him sitting with someone new.'
'Hi, you were asking after me? Oh... my apologies, I didn't mean to interrupt.' She says, a slight upturn of her lips as she's trying to be friendly, though there's still dry blood flecked on her face and clothes.
perception : 17 (to overhear Brannick's mumbling)
~♡~
'Kestrell returns Dimdin's toast with a nod and a smile as he continues to sing, the song really kicking into high gear:'
"Come sail away, come sail away, come sail away with me! I thought that they were angles, but ot my surprise they climbed aboard their st.."
'Kestrell stutters as the arm reaches around his waist and the silky voice starts purring in his ear, and then, forgetting where he was in the song, quietly finishes:'
"Come sail.....away.....with me?"
'He turns to face the beautiful woman talking to him and gulps involuntarily before gathering himself.'
"I...ah...Why yes, I am here for a little more than singing to...sinful drunkards such as yourself..you say?"
Kestrell's eye's take her in, glancing up and down.
"That is sure some nice leather, how do you keep it so well...oiled?"
"But yes, I was here for something else, I'm just having trouble remembering what it was at the moment. Oh right! I came here looking for a ship needing someone to guide her. Didn't I see you talking to the captain earlier? Did you sign on yourself?"
'The woman stretches to good effect as Kestrell takes her measure, before grabbing the mug of spiced rum placed before her by the timid Lorana, downing it in one long gulp. Wiping her mouth with the back of her hand, she responds to Kestrell's question... in a mock immitation of the quavering voice used by Kay to address the Captain and his officers earlier,'
"Who... me... why I never... Oh yes, I... I... I DID sign up, didn't I. Little 'ole me is going to keep the ship's rigging loose or taught as she needs to be, and the sails wrapped tight or blowing full as they needs to be... l mean, I will if... if my... my Captain... or you, you great big hero you... commands it of me!"
'She ends her mocking mimicry with a loud *HA!* that bounces of the nearby walls and, after deftly fetching the unexpecting Lorana a playful slap on the rump and demanding another rum, looks back at Kestrell with an eyebrow raised, a nod towards the Captains table and then continues in an almost challenging tone,'
"A ship with someone to guide her, huh? Well, as it would happen, I might just know of a ship and captain who'se hiring. Captain Aundrey's his name and he's a fine pup is our new Captain, though the two either side of him have ridden a swell or two in their day, no doubten that. You could be worth having aboard, singer, what with your illusions and that lovely singing voice of yours. That is... if you're as good at 'guiding' things as you seems to think you are...
My name's Zaretta by-the-bye. Not that you asked, least not with that pretty voice of yours. How's this, singer - if you get hired on as an officer, I just might be tempted to share the secrets of how I keep my leathers so... supple."
'The playful Zaretta giggles at her own humour, though her high-pitched voice and laugh are probably the only things even remotely girlish about the woman.'
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...
Vassa Sunstar (half-drow bard) - Waterdeep Dragonheist
DM Ghosts of a Forgotten Land
DM Beyond the Bitter Shore
DM Echos of a Burning Crown
"Well, Zaretta, I look forward to seeing you and your leathers on board. Now if you'll excuse me, I must go talk to the good Captain."
'Kestrell extends his hand:' "I'm Kestrell, by the way. It was nice meeting you Zaretta."