Cosette’s brow pops in intrigue when Grugga would offer to fetch drinks. “The strongest thing you’ve got, if I may.” She smiles and dips her head in thanks for his hospitality. 

Then just as Aubrey begins to lead the way on their tour, Cos pauses in her tracks for a brief moment. She lifts a finger in the air as if remembering something she had almost forgot. Bringing her fingers to her lips, Cosette then lets out a loud sharp whistle. 

Rustle rustle, rustle rustle. Crash. Crunch. Thump thump. Thump thump. Thump thump…

Off in the distance near the fallen bandit bodies rustling through the bushes could be heard. It’d soon pick up speed, crashing and thrashing through the low jungle thicket. With a loud crack of a splintered branch, a medium size beast bursts into view, barreling directly for the Golden Empress. It charges forward, trampling any vegetation on its way and kicking up sand as it reaches the beach. Hefty paws hit the deck of the ship with rhythmic thumps, dribble and spittle flicking from it’s jowls in its wake. 

A beautifully brindled Mastiff with a saddle pack leaps over the sunning military orc on the deck and comes almost skidding to a halt at Cosette’s side. With a smirk on her face, she’d make the quickest hand gesture with her hand. Trained to act on this signal, the large dog leaps up onto Raqisat in excitement and starts slathering him in slobbery licks.

”Hope yous don’t mind a tiny addition.” Cosette would smile. “This is Bruno. My loyal courier companion.” She explains. The Mastiff carries pretty much all of the woman’s hefty and bulky archaeology equipment. Though, should Leelan find himself near Bruno, he could conclude that the mastiff could almost be the perfect mount should he be curious (or brave). 

The sound of Cosette’s boots could be heard as she walks along the ship throughout their personal tour. While Raq engages vocally, Cos remains quiet. Her brown eyes eagerly scan the ship, every crook, cranny and technology. And should it not offend their hosts, she’d even pulls out a notebook. She’d make notes on how the ship runs and the crews roles, as if studying and noting the lore of the Golden Empress as it unfolds before them. While she is not an antique, there’s quality craftsmanship worth noting and recording for future historical significance, and appraisal. Occasionally she’d point to something to ask what it was made of, or who the tradesman could be that worked on the particular component. Throughout these minimal discussions and pleasantries, Leelan’s mention of knowing scholars in the Northern Trade Fedaration, he’d come to notice Cosette’s mannerisms, dialect and accent are reminiscent of those from the NTF.

When the Captain would make her appearance, Cosette would give room for her to eat her meal. She’d join in participation in their discussions of next steps. However, when there was an appropriate moment she’d approach and formally introduce herself to the strong woman. “Cosette Shadowjaw.” She dips her head in respectful greeting while offering an accompanying handshake. “Cartographer at your service, Captain.” Cos had skills she hopes the Captain would find valuable while on her ship. 

Once settled for dinner, Cosette would lean up against solid structure, with her foot propped up. She too would eat her meal standing up, wanting to stretch her sea legs while she could. Bruno diligently followed her like a large shadow through out the tour, coming to lay himself down at her feet at this time. Although the mastiff is built to look intimidating, the dog was all looks. But baddies didn’t need to know that. Nothing but soft snorts, low snores and the occasional foot twitch comes from Bruno during meal time until Cosette bends down to place her bowl down for him to finish. A good waft of the broth stew perks the pup up enough to gobble up the goods, leaving nothing but slobber left in the bowl. 

As everyone comes to finish their meals, Cosette peels herself from the wall and begins collecting the bowls. She starts to hum a light sea shante, her steps moving to sync with the rhythm. There’s the occasional boot stomp, kick into a pivot spin and clang of the dishes to pick up the beat and pace. One by one she claims a bowl, dips and places them down for Bruno to rinse, only to swipe them back up in a playful twirl, magically cleaning (sanitizing) them further with a gentle tuft of magic and eventually stacking them to be put away.

Aubrey listens to Raqisat and then to Rohuzar, making sure Captain Neck gets all their ideas of the different ways they will use for signaling for evacuation by the Amnifortis shore. "We can decide we want to be picked up at sundown unless we signal for evacuation earlier than that." He says with a nod, then turning to Raqisat. "I'm not against creating a more advanced and elaborate system of communication but I'm not sure what we would want to communicate other than for the Golden Empress to pick us up, I'm open to suggestions though." He says, taking a sip of his white wine.

"Our selection of spirits is still fairly limited I must admit, but we have absinthe if that would be to you liking." Aubrey mentions to Cosette and Grugga before the latter departs to fetch drinks. The young noble's amber eyes goes wide as the massive hound comes charging up the gang plank of the Golden Empress, taking a step back even, but then he chuckles as the beast shows it's deep affection for Raqisat. "Oh, not at all, I hope Bruno is content with the limited space we have on the ship but we should have no problem with accomodating him as well." Aubrey explains with a friendly smile.

As Bruno helps out with the dishes, Aubrey hunches down to pet the impressive beast, trying to find what he really appreciates. "I'm not knowledgable about dogs but we had some fine ones when we went hunting in the forests around the Goldentide's estates." He says, looking up at Cosette. "Are you planning to bring him into the ruins? He would be welcome to stay on the Empress if you think it would be too dangerous for him to follow along."

Grugga returns with wine and absinthe to pair with the... broth. Over spoonfuls of flavored water, he agrees with general consensus on pick-up: "Yes, I think sundown would be a good idea, and we can figure out a color system to send more specific messages if needed." When Cosette mentions she's a cartographer, Grugga raises his eyebrows and looks knowingly at the rest of his crewmates. "We need to map out the city. Your skills would be very welcome if you want to join us. Like Aubrey said, the pay will be good, but won't come until after."

He finishes off his bowl and leans back. "I'm worried about the ship now. These Burning Knights know about our ship now. We will be in Amnifortis all day for the foreseeable future... The crew will be sitting ducks out here, Mr. Howie's bravery not-withstanding. I suppose the captain should have standing orders to run whenever a boat looks like its coming too close to the Golden Empress... hopefully that doesn't happen around sundown."

After the meal, Grugga will spend some time seeing if Zap can be modified to carry some gear, just like Bruno carries gear for Cosette. In the end, it throws the machine too far off balance and doesn't really serve a purpose because Grugga carries Zap most of the time anyway.

If Cosette and Raqisat are on the main deck at that time, they will see Grugga tinkering with what appears to be a hip-height spinning top made of iron or steel. Set into its rim is a series of purple crystals. Whenever Grugga tells it to, "Zap" (the machine), spins up and moves on its own.

Rohuzar gets the first look of genuine, childlike excitement most of you have ever seen as soon as the dog comes aboard. 

He will spend the rest of the time until the captive awakens trying to lure Bruno in with food for petting the big, beautiful beast.

Aubrey nods in agreement with Grugga over the team having use for a cartographer.
"Yes, these bandits could be a real menace to us. What do you say Captain? Will the Empress be able to outrun other typical vessels do you think?" He turns and asks Captain Neck.
The young noble smiles as he sees Rohuzar finding a new friend. The integration of these new recruits was moving impeccably. Was it fate or a pure stroke of luck sending Raqisat, Cosette and Bruno their way? "Cosette, how would you feel about letting Bruno guard the Empress for us when we are ashore?" He turns as and asks the archaeologist with a polite smile.

Leelan is pleasantly surprised by Bruno’s appearance and approached the dog to pet it, but also get a closer look at the beast.

"My word! A mastiff. Or as they are also known Canis Lupus Familiaris. I’ve heard of them but have never had an opportunity to be near one, as odd as this may sound."

He takes out a quill and some paper and begins taking note of some of the dog’s feature: height, length, claw length, etc.

He will then start questioning Cosette about her furry companion. Where did she find it? How long have they traveled together? Is it friendly? Etc. All the while he takes note of her answers and once finished, will add those notes to his manuscript.

As lunch, introductions and conversation wind down, the captive Bandit Leader begins to stir.

[How is he bound?  Is he gagged as well?]

     Raqisat grunted and grumbled.  “Cur!” and “Runt!” and “Foul beast!” Could all be heard muttered as he wrestled and wrangled with the dog.  “Control your mutt!” Raqisat demanded, but after the briefest of moments it was apparent the struggle and complaints were all routine and that man and animal were both enjoying themselves…

     Once Bruno tired of the game, or Cosette called him off - for while they were playmates, the mastiff never obeyed Raqisat except by accident - Raqisat would watch in amusement as the dog made the rounds saying hello to the others.  And tried to discreetly wipe off some of the slobber.

     “He really is a menace,” Raqisat says to Cosette with a grin.

     “Dwarven Archeological Society, did you say?” Raqisat says, recalling the previously raised topic that got lost by the rush of new people and such.  “I must admit, I am unfamiliar. Apologies if I cam off as more scholarly or educated than I am.  My studies, you see, are self driven and more practical than theoretical.  I have sought out and spent many years with what many would consider the more… uncivilized tribes.”

     “I have spent time with dwarves, but it was more hard work than studying books.  I lived with them, mined with them.  Learned from them.  I spent time, too, with the halflings…  and much time with the Orcs,” he says looking to Grugga  and Rohuzar.  “I eschewed the cities and so called civilized lands and instead sought out those still living in the wilds.  I seek to learn for my own sake, not for writing books or giving lectures…”

     “Does the ship need stay idle?” He asks as the conversation returns to the ships safety.  “I’ve not seen the Burned Knights  having ships of their own but that doesn’t mean it’s not possible.  I… We’ve not been here very long ourselves.  But seen idle and predictable it could make a tempting target to them or yo others, I would think…”

     Raqisat more or less proposes the ship could do different runs each day to keep the routine varied.  Four or five different routes, each assigned a color.  Each morning the days color would be chosen randomly before the explorers disembark so they and crew know the route.  If explorers need it earlier than planned routine they would have rough idea of area it was in and could head that way or send a signal that way…

     Further, the messenger returning to the ship with a colored strip of cloth could mean different things on different colored days.  “I’ve not the head for it myself but surely one who developed such wonders,” Raqisat says indicating Grugga and Zap, “could create a cypher to keep the ships routes varied but predictable to us.  And to signal ship to return on time, or now and/or to a secondary site?”

     “I do think we’d have better luck with a larger group,” Raqisat suggests to Cosette a bit warily.  “Strength in numbers and there are worse than the Knights inside the city, they say…”

     “But we are also used to being on our own,” he quickly follows up, turning to Aubrey and the others.  “Playing by our own rules and the like.  Not that we can’t be team players, but we may be a bit…  rough around the edges?”

"Oh, I'm sure we will all get along nicely. As long as you are reasonably civil you can stay on the Empress and assuming we can cooperate regarding the objectives of our expedition I'm convinced the Emperor will reward you both handsomely as we return to Bardstown. It wouldn't hurt to get to know you a bit better though. Any particular rules you prefer to play by that we should be aware of?" Aubrey asks Raqisat and Cosette with a friendly smile, taking another sip of his white wine. 

Cosette accepts her absinthe from Grugga with a deep nod of appreciation and gleeful smile. It's been some time since she's had her hands on some absinthe without a five finger discount. Most of the time it's ale, mead or wine, rarely the spirits and quality ones at that. She swirls the liquid in her glass prior to taking a deep inhale, eventually exhaling with a satisfied sigh. Cos takes a few moments to herself to enjoy her drink while Raqisat goes through his routine fuss and the rest of their new hosts dote over Bruno. Cosette couldn't help but chuckle to herself smiling wide as he's welcomed with warmth and comradery. He will indeed be a very spoiled goodest boy while in this company.

Thumpthumpthumpthumpthump...

Sitting like the bestest boy, Bruno's eyes light up when they meet Rohuzar's. Matching the man's excitement, his tail hits the deck in his excitement over all the incoming attention. Although a little apprehensive at first approach, he sniffs at Aubrey's hands and welcomes the pets as the noble speaks with his mistress. Aubrey, and the others as they got their turn, would learn that the mastiff loved a good scratch behind the ears, under the chin, his armpits and the base of his tail where it meets his back.

However, it would be Rohuzar who gains the most favour with the food bribes. Bruno's highly food motivated. He'd unlock a few of Bruno's tricks like shake a paw, roll over and play dead, thus being presented his belly for his all time favourite pets, belly rubs!

Leelan also wasn't without his appreciation from the beast. The scholars curiosity and desire to sketch Bruno boosted the dogs ego a bit, having him attempt some intended poses throughout the process.

While Bruno's attached to Rohuzar and being studied by Leelan, Cosette watches and listens to the conversations as they happen, watching Grugga when he'd work. The mastiff even looks to Cos with big wide puppy eyes each time she's encouraged to join them on their adventure. She does eventually pause sipping her drink, breaking her silence to respond to questions and participate in the discussion.

"Thank you Grugga, Aubrey." Cosette smiles. "I'm always pleased to hear when my skills are in demand." She nods. "Happy to provide my services for the right price." Looking over at Bruno, her face softens in some playful exaggeration in response to his begging eyes. Not like they weren't trying to get there anyway... "How can I say no to that?" She looks back to them. "I suppose we can accept a later pay, an' other arrangements as they come up." There was potential to discover other treasures and the like of course.

"And as much as I'd hate to separate the pair," Cosette gestures to Bruno and Rohuzar, "I believe it could be best for Bruno to remain here and assist in guarding the Golden Empress. His senses may be able to provide an edge in identifying and sniffing out threats the crew may not be able to see."

As the bandit leader stirs, Bruno's ears stand at alert. He'd stand on all fours when Rohuzar would bring himself to his feet, prepared to support him with the captive.

"I stumbled upon Bruno in an underground beast ring.... Ya know, bandits arrange fights an' take in bets.... Bruno was just a pup at the time. A runt. Treated beyond poorly..." Cosette summarized briefly, trailing off here and there as she recalled him being starved, chained and caged. "So, I stole him."

Cosette liked the ideas being thrown around for signalling the ship, as well as considering having it patrol the river instead of leaving it as a sitting duck. There would be risks regardless of what decisions they make, however minimizing them was a team effort and a group decision. Probing and testing every possibility is part of the excitement and Cos was ready for adventure.

      Raqisat glance sideways to Cosette when she brazenly admitted to stealing the pup.  He couldn't help but smirk a little.  Go figure her throwing the word right out into the open as he hinted around the topic. She had the right of it though, gauge their reaction to such a reasonable appropriation and ease them into more later, if required.  

Grugga ponders the creation of a flag-based code for their needs. "I'll think on it tonight and see what I come up with."

Grugga lets the others spoil the dog, though he does Bruno some pats as he passes by now and then. "I've always liked dogs. Loyal. There were quite a few in Raven's Hill to protect the chickens from foxes and hawks. Different breed though - Dwarven Ridgebacks, I think - from Dunngenor."

"So... when should we head to Amnifortis. We could maybe take a quick look around the outskirts today. Nothing substantial, just get our bearing. Or we could wait until morning."

Quote from Bartjeebus >>

As lunch, introductions and conversation wind down, the captive Bandit Leader begins to stir.

[How is he bound?  Is he gagged as well?]

 Rohuzar would not have gagged him. He'd be in a Welsh restraint aka: a hogtie. It's not comfortable, or even sage for long periods of time, but for less than a day, it's a solid restraint with little freedom of movement. 

Rohuzar will alight to the stirring captive and gently escort Bruno out of the room. "You don't want to see this part, Bruno..." 

"It seems you did the right thing then Cosette, liberating Bruno from his torturous captivity." The young noble says with polite smile. "I admit being a defender of law and order I would not normally condone the act of theft, but there are certainly cirmumstances that would justify larceny, and I think Bruno would agree."

"If everyone feels ready to make a quick excursion into the outskirts of the city this afternoon I won't object to that, but I think we are in no hurry with completing our objectives and we should expect staying here for quite a while before we are finished." Aubrey comments on Grugga's suggestion.

As the bandit leader stirs, Aubrey turns to face him. "I think it's time to have a word with our uninvited guest." He says grimly, finishing his glass of wine before taking a chair to sit by the restrained man, making a swift motion with his hand while uttering some arcane words and touching his talisman, then speaking to the man with a firm voice. "I wouldn't want to waste my precious time talking to a simple bandit like yourself so if I get the sense you are not cooperating fully you would instead have to be questioned by my associate Rohuzar who will not hestitate to use whatever means necessary to make you tell us what we need to know. We know you are part of the Burned Knights, but in order to survive your visit here on this ship you would need to tell us all that you know about the witch that abandoned you and this forge and prophet that she mentioned. Know that we are a mere reconnaissance team that will be followed by the imperial legions reclaiming Amnifortis for the empire, so it would certainly be in your best interest to distance yourself from the Burned Knights and save yourself as their presence here will soon be swept away by the armies of the empire. You can still survive this, assuming we are satisfied with the answers you give us." The young noble calmly explains, his amber eyes giving the man a cold glare.

Cast Detect Thoughts, will automatically read surface thoughts, then Wis save 14 to prevent deeper probing.
Intmidation: 7 Another roll if help action is given by Rohuzar glaring menacingly at the man: 26 
Insight to discern if answers are truthful in case the spell doesn't reveal that: 11

(Short addendum but don't want to mess up rolls.)

As the young noble glares at the hogtied bandit, he enters his mind with a cold bloodcurdling voice of a starless void. "And don't think we won't pry your secrets away from you eventually. It is only a matter of how painful it will be to your flesh...and your soul."

     Raqisat Alsayf sits back with a fresh drink and watches the interrogation with interest.  He aims to show no emotion during the entire ordeal as he doesn't wish to help or hinder.  Instead he just wants  to see the lengths these new companions (at least for now) of theirs are willing to go to in order to get what they want...

The Bandit Leader is silent at first.  Tied as he is, arms to feet behind his bag, he is uncomfortable and completely vulnerable.  He listens to Aubrey's words and cranes his neck to get a look at everyone else.  He tests his bonds.   Then he relaxes.

"The Burned Knights outnumber you ten to one.  They control everything outside the walls of the old city.  I won't betray them for you."

"The smartest thing you could do would be to release me and turn back... abandon any plans to scout this place.  If you're too stubborn for that, then you may as well cut my throat and dump me in the Breitvasser.  I won't tell you anything.  Neither will anyone else.  None will betray the Prophet for you."

"I don't doubt you'll kill me.  But something worse than death awaits those who betray him."

Aubrey:

Still glaring coldly at the hogtied bandit, Aubrey makes a swift motion with his hand while uttering some arcane words and touching his talisman. "Are you saying the Burned Knights are outnumbering the imperial legions by ten to one. Somehow I find that hard to believe bandit." Aubrey says dryly, then again entering the captive's mind with a cold bloodcurdling voice of a starless void. "We will not be as lenient with you as to simply cut your lying throat bandit. Also I'm far too intrigued about what more your weak mind will have to divulge about this red-handed prophet. I don't doubt he is very powerful but I think you are direly underestimating our ability to inflict suffering upon you when you could simply save yourself from a prolonged period of unpleasant intrerrogation and instead tell us what we need to know and then abandon the Burned Knights and this part of the world. Having divulged what you already have I severely doubt your prophet will welcome you back into his fold for anything but punishment for failing him, in many ways now, what do you think bandit?"

Cast Hex, giving disadvantage to Wis or whichever stat would be used to oppose an intimidation attempt.
A new intimidation attempt if allowed due to new circumstances: 25 Another roll if help action is given by Rohuzar glaring menacingly at the man: 26
New insight to discern if answers are truthful: 8