"Nice day better for boat", Bosko replies simply as he tucks into breakfast.
"You say been on boats before", he adds with a mouthful of food. "What you do on boats?", he asks, trying to get Sunita to talk whilst he eats. He is curious as to what her skills are, other than being, as she said before, strong.
Sleep comes easy to you all, especially to Bosko, Alyndra and Lazarus, who enjoyed quite a few mugs of cider at the festival yesterday. The accommodations at the Serpent Inn are comfortable enough, even if the mattress sizes are a little cramped for Bosko and Larazus, but they don't keep you from drifting off into a slumber that lasts until the early morning.
After a quick breakfast in the common room, which consist of cod scrambled eggs, crab muffins and crispy seafood bake hash, you grab your belongings, leave the inn and hurry down to the docks in the cool morning air, feeling the sea breeze on your faces. Feolinn is not all that big, so you arrive in plenty of time, well before nine bells. You watch the bustling activity that's happening as numerous watercraft, some small, some quite large, are being loaded for departure from port, when well-dressed man with a long, well-groomed mustache calls out to you. Alyndra, Lazarus and Bosko recognize him from yesterday, it's Jorge Simón. He waves you over and greets you.
"Well hello! A fine morning it is, and you are right on time. Early, in fact. I like that. Punctuality is a good trait in the world of business.'
He glances with a slight quizzical look his face and says, "I don't see the tall woman from the mountains, or that small bird-like fellow... and I don't remember seeing these two from yesterday, he nods towards Sunita and Markus, perhaps they chose not to come and instead you found replacements. That's fine with me. We had agreed on five, and I see five of you standing in front of me now, and as far as I'm concerned, that's good in my book. After yesterday, I trust the three of you, and if you deem these two as worthy alternatives that's fine by me."
Addressing the two newcomers, the man continues.
"I don't know what these three have told you, they can fill you in later, but since you are here now with them, and since we are in a hurry, consider yourself hired. 100 gold coins per person to make sure this shipment arrives safely in Palma Flora, which is two-day sail. Our sales rep, Diego will pay you upon arrival. After that, as I told them yesterday, once you arrive, the job is done and you're free to relax by the water, enjoy the shark hunting tournament, sip drinks in the sunshine or do whatever you wish. If you've never bee to Palma Flora, it's quite an idyllic little resort. You're welcome to return to Feolinn at your leisure, or not. I know how you adventurers like to stay on the move."
"To make this official, allow me to introduce myself. I am Jorge Simón of the Solvia Groves Winery, which is your employer for this trip. The other three I know; who are you?"
"Sunita Han, you are a ways from home, but many adventures often are, it seems. I am expecting no trouble, and I hope that my gold will pay for you to sit peacefully on the boat for two days, whilst letting your feet dangle over the edge as you enjoy the taste and feel of the salty breeze on your face. However, there has been increased pirate activity out on the open waters lately, so I would be a fool not to anticipate the possibility that the ship might run into some unscrupulous folks who wish to abscond with our product without paying."
As for beasts... yes, there are certainly beats in the ocean, but we rarely have any trouble with those creatures who dwell below the surface. However, you are my insurance, and judging by those two blades you carry, I believe that my money will be well spent.
The night certainly could have been more comfortable. The heat of the Menagerie Coast was still taking some getting used to, especially with cramped beds. Almost made her miss snow. Though the taste of exotic seafood breakfast certainly made up for it a bit. The half elf absolutely scarfed down the crispy seafood baked hash and savored the crab muffins, even saving two for later in her bag wrapped up in a handkerchief. Making sure to drink plenty of water and then top off all of their waterskins, Alyndra set off behind Bosko and Lazarus to Feolinn's port. Still silently marveling at the various impressive vessels until she spied a familiar mustache.
Raising a hand in greeting with polite smile, the auburn haired woman quipped, "Never late if you're always early Mr. Simón." Something drilled into her from a young age. As the wine merchant acknowledged the lack of old faces and presence of new ones, she nodded. "The other two didn't seem interested any longer, why I couldn't say. But these two seem fairly capable in their own way. And you made it seem like more help would be needed. Wouldn't want to leave anything without proper protection."She couldn't recall if it was the representative or the cargo that they were supposed to be protecting. Or both. Probably both. "I'm glad we haven't imposed." Would have been an awkward morning greeting if not.
Glancing over the human as she and Jorge exchanged greetings, Alyndra was glad that while this person obviously wasn't as toweringly intimidating as the goliath woman they had met last night, she certainly seemed to look like she could handle herself. The man on the other hand...well he certainly seemed interesting at the very least. Gently nudging Lazarus she murmured, "Kamordah's just a bit north of Deastok."
The talk of pirates gave her a mild thrill as well as sense of trepidation. "I much prefer pirates when they're fictional and in a book as opposed to a real actual threat that I have to worry about killing us." Alyndra sighed, greatly hoping said theoretical pirates wouldn't ruin this vacation. "Will you be joining us on the voyage Mr. Simón? Or if not, will you introduce us to this Mr. Diego?"
Bosko stays quiet as the the others talk to Jorge. In truth he has no idea how capable Sunita and Markus are, and if all goes well he won't find out on the trip either. But his belly is full of good food, the weather is fine, he has interesting company and is getting to explore more of the Menagarie Coast whilst being paid for the privilege. Times are good.
He looks out at all the boats and wonders which one is going to be taking them on their journey.
Hearing talk turn to pirates, he turns his attention back to the conversation. He had experience with pirates. His hand goes unconsciously to his tricorn hat as the memory of the Orc pirate who previously owned it comes into his mind. He had been lucky that day, and he wouldn't want to come across the brute again.
"Would rather avoid pirates", he says under his breath with a frown on his face.
His smile soon returns though. "Which boat for us?", he asks Jorge.
"I much prefer pirates when they're fictional and in a book as opposed to a real actual threat that I have to worry about killing us." Alyndra sighed, greatly hoping said theoretical pirates wouldn't ruin this vacation. "Will you be joining us on the voyage Mr. Simón? Or if not, will you introduce us to this Mr. Diego?"
"I'm sure that most do," Jorge replies with a tight smile. "Hopefully your attitude about pirates will remain unchanged during this journey, but again... Insurance."
He then waves a shorter, slightly stockier man over, who has tanned skin and a thick mat of dark curls on his head. "Diego, this is the party I've assigned to guard the shipment."
Diego nods with a hearty smile and says, "Well, let's get aboard then, no time to waste! We're pushing out shortly, so please... follow me."
Assuming that you do, Jorge says, "Enjoy your journey and whatever time you spend in Palma Flora. I think you'll like the place, it's quite the idyllic vacation spot." He then watches you board.
Diego leads you onto one of the large sailing ships that are docked in the harbor. The vessel, which is called The Sea Spirit, is about 100 feet long by 20 feet wide, and has three 80-foot-tall masts fit with large sails and rigging, and oars that protrude from portholes on the lower deck. As you walk up the gangplank onto the main deck, you see a number of sailors scurrying around, getting the ship ready for sail.
On top of the main deck, you see one mangonel, and 10 large stones stacked next to it. (A mangonel is a type of catapult that hurls heavy projectiles in a high arc.) A single hatch leads down onto the lower deck, and a three foot high rail that runs all around the entire perimeter. Four row boards are stacked on top of each other on this deck. Ropes and pulleys can hoist these boats in and out of the water.
On the Forecastle, which is the raised platform at the front of the boat, you see a single ballista and ten arrows, while on the Quarterdeck at aft, you see another ballista and ten large arrows, as well as the ship's wheel. Behind the wheel, stands a tall, burly man with skin that's even darker than Deigo's, and long dark curls that spill out from beneath a black wool cap.
"That's Captain Kadmos. He runs this ship. You'll get to meet him later, but for now, I'll show you down to your quarters."
He leads you down inside the ship, and you pass through the Lower Deck, which is filled with an assortment of barrels and crates, to the Hold. This area is also filled with cargo, as well as a number of rolled up mats, which the of-duty crew uses for sleeping.
"This will be where you sleep. You're welcome to wander the ship and spent whatever time you wish up on top, but I'd like at least one of you, if not two, out on watch at all times, even during the night.'
"Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to finish with the paperwork for our cargo, but I'm sure we'll see each other later."
Diego heads back up to the main deck, leaving you to whatever you wish to do.
As they tour the ship, Bosko remains quiet but takes note of the mangonel and ballista, and tries to get a look at the captain and crew to see how they are armed. It was obvious that this ship was prepared for hostile encounters, and the fact that extra security on top of that was needed for Jorge's cargo suggests that either the chance of coming across pirates was higher than was made out, or that the crew themselves were not to be trusted.
Of course there was also a chance that Jorge was just a very careful man. It then occurred to him that maybe Diego was bringing their pay along as well, which gave even more reason to be extra mindful.
"Happy to take first watch. Prefer to be in fresh air, not buried in ship cellar", he says as Diego makes his leave.
Lazarus felt as if he fell asleep as soon as he hit the bed but knew that in the midst of the night, he felt the blankets were gonna be the death of him. The heat from himself, added with his wife and THEN the air itself was killer in and out of itself. Though, the drink definitely made sure that he stayed asleep more than anything else and it was the saving grace.
The following morning, he woke to Alyndra getting herself up and awake and he pulled himself up on sheer will alone, his overall appearance seemed to be very off putting. He was not a morning person and it would be simple for anyone to see. He trudged to the breakfast and would grab a muffin and nothing else as it would not give him the best stomach surprise. He would nibble at the muffin and give a light wave of a greeting to Bosko when he saw him.
Lazarus would leave as he saw Bosko leaving, grabbing his supplies and tossing them over his shoulder as they would head to their destination. He wouldn't say much as he felt saying anything in his current mood would only sour the mood overall. He was aiming to focus when the appearance of two others would cause his wife to give him a small nudge that caused him to give a light snarl "..." He then picked up on just what he had heard "Oh, I used to live near there." He aimed to sound as normal as he could given his current state of groggy.
After the small greeting, they would be escorted onto the ship itself and Lazarus was starting to come around. He noticed the catapult with what he could only assume to be the ammo for it if it would come down to it. "That looks like it could be fun. At least, just to launch. To actually FIRE at something that would require it...oh...oh that would be very off putting to say the least."
Then they would be lead down to where they would be sleeping and then how the watch would work and that it would be someone on watch at every given time. Bosko offered the first watch and Lazarus would nod his head. "I guess we can all just relax for a bit and figure out who is going to be watching with who." He would then put his belongings down by the cot that he would belong to him. "Well, I think that I'll just... stay down here... for reasons."
As they tour the ship, Bosko remains quiet but takes note of the mangonel and ballista, and tries to get a look at the captain and crew to see how they are armed. It was obvious that this ship was prepared for hostile encounters, and the fact that extra security on top of that was needed for Jorge's cargo suggests that either the chance of coming across pirates was higher than was made out, or that the crew themselves were not to be trusted.
Of course there was also a chance that Jorge was just a very careful man. It then occurred to him that maybe Diego was bringing their pay along as well, which gave even more reason to be extra mindful.
"Happy to take first watch. Prefer to be in fresh air, not buried in ship cellar", he says as Diego makes his leave.
Sunita offers to sit the watch with Bosko, " This is a good sized ship...I was imagining a fishing skiff or the like."
" How long have you been travelling with the couple? They seem nice."
Bosko nods to Lazarus as the Firbolg decides to lie down. He wasn't entirely sure what was up with him, he just seemed a little different, more reserved or somber. Maybe that was normal for his people.
He heads off and walks towards the forecastle of the ship, waiting for it to push off and the voyage to begin. As Sunita walks with him, he looks a little uncomfortable, as he always did with new people of the non goblinoid races.
"This will be first time travelling with them. Met yesterday. New to Feolinn and Alyndra and Lazarus. New to everything beyond Lushgut Forest", he answers, looking a bit sheepish at his inexperience beyond his home forest.
"You live with family clan still?", he says trying to turn the focus away from himself. "Time to spread wings?"
He heads off and walks towards the forecastle of the ship, waiting for it to push off and the voyage to begin. As Sunita walks with him, he looks a little uncomfortable, as he always did with new people of the non goblinoid races.
"This will be first time travelling with them. Met yesterday. New to Feolinn and Alyndra and Lazarus. New to everything beyond Lushgut Forest", he answers, looking a bit sheepish at his inexperience beyond his home forest.
"You live with family clan still?", he says trying to turn the focus away from himself. "Time to spread wings?"
Sunita turned towards Bosko " Lushgut? I don't think I know that one."
When he asked his questions she froze suddenly before forcing herself to answer, " Uh, Um. Kind of...."
" My parents moved down here from Kamordah a few years ago....I stayed behind."
" I.....worked there. Things happened. Bad things.", she shuddered and he could note her grip on the railing was a death grip.
" I came down here to get away from the reminders.....but they live on in my head anyway."
You configure your little "sleeping space" down in the hold and lay your bedrolls almost one of the stacks of crates, which you assume to be Diego's cargo. Then while Lazarus remains down below, you head topside and watch as the last preparations are made before launch. Less than 30 minutes after the ninth bell that rings from the local chapel in the center of town, The Sea Spirit pulls away from the dock and you being your journey to Palma Flora.
As you move through the harbor and pull away from the city, you get a good view of the western side of Feolinn and it's attractive rural aesthetic, as well as the plentiful Plumgroves that lie just outside the city. Also see a handful of fishing boats of various sizes heading out to work the bountiful fishing waters in and around the Mother's Sigh Reef, which is located to the west.
Your route also takes you in that direction, and as the sailors row a short ways away from the harbor, the captain gives the order and the crew raises the main sails. As soon as they're unfurled, they catch the morning breeze and you begin traveling at a pretty good clip. Looking back, you watch Feolinn recede into the distance, and soon you find yourselves out on the open water.
The sun shines brightly at your back this morning, and it isn't long before the temperature beings to rise. With perfectly clear air, you have unending visibility all around, and a wonderful view of the flocks of seabirds that soar overhead, occasionally dipping down to catch fish under the surface. Judging by the demeanor of the captain and the crew, it looks to be a good day at sea, and for the most part, at least for now, your only job is to take in the sights and enjoy the view as you ride along as passengers aboard the Sea Spirit.
Bosko doesn’t respond to Sunita as he gets the feeling she might not want to talk more about it. And then the ship gets underway and his attention is further diverted as he takes this new experience in.
The wind rushing through his fur covered body is exhilarating, and the sights of the sea birds hypnotising. He wonders why he never travelled by ship before.
Remembering his purchase he takes out his fishing kit and looks to find a spot to drop a line over the side. Not really sure if it will work travelling at their speed and from this high up, he non the less tries.
His curiosity finally getting the better of him he says to Sunita simply, “Bad things?”.
Bosko doesn’t respond to Sunita as he gets the feeling she might not want to talk more about it. And then the ship gets underway and his attention is further diverted as he takes this new experience in.
The wind rushing through his fur covered body is exhilarating, and the sights of the sea birds hypnotising. He wonders why he never travelled by ship before.
Remembering his purchase he takes out his fishing kit and looks to find a spot to drop a line over the side. Not really sure if it will work travelling at their speed and from this high up, he non the less tries.
His curiosity finally getting the better of him he says to Sunita simply, “Bad things?”.
Sunita had lost herself in the dance of the waves and the cries of the sea birds as they fished and Boskos question brought her crashing back down to earth.
" A lot of people died. All my friends...workmates....friends died. And not just died, they did things to them. There was nothing we could do.....we were just little bits of paper to those things..."
She stopped mumbling and looked up at the tall goblinoid, rather relieved that she hadn't joined the war effort....not only did she not want to be fighting someone this big but Bosko seemed to be a kind soul. She wondered how many more of his kind in the armies of the Kryn Dynasty were of a similar nature....probably quite a few she suspected.
She smiled at him a sad smile, " I was working for another winery at the time, some......not people....", she shuddered. " ......came in the night to claim something from the families collection. I don't even know what they were after...I don't even know how I survived..perhaps the woman-thing thought I was dead? Some family members died as well."
Her eyes became hard as steel, " I'm not going to let that happen again, I will die before I let anything happen to any of you."
As the subject of pirates was discussed, Alyndra couldn't help but notice how Bosko's hand went to his very noticeable hat and her mind immediately began to wonder if the bugbear was a pirate. Focusing back on the man they were just introduced to she greeted, "Good to meet you Mr. Diego. My name is Alyndra." After a heartbeat and realizing the firbolg at her side wasn't speaking up she did so for him, "And this is Lazarus."She could tell he definitely wasn't awake nor thrilled to exist this early in the morning, not that that was unusual for her partner. The half elf simply contented herself to stay quiet as Diego gave them the tour of the ship.
The Sea Spirit wasn't the larges she'd ever seen while perusing docks along their journey of the Menagerie Coast, but certainly the largest she had ever been on. Considering this was the very first one she'd stepped foot on, that wasn't as impressive as one might think but she certainly thought this ship was fairly impressive. The captain was slightly less so but for different reasons. "I knew Captains usually wear hats but I was sort of expecting something different."The wool cap looked like it might be something she could picture an elderly halfling knitting for some reason. At Lazarus' comment about the mangonel, she chuffed a small laugh. "I'll leave that all to you dear."
After they were lead below deck, glancing around the hold where they were shown that they'd be sleeping, the auburn haired woman Smiled fondly at her sleepy partner. "I know you're a night owl but better for you to have watch when there's at least a bit of light out." Pulling over a cot or sleeping roll closer to her husband's own, Alyndra arranged her pack and things she didn't need to have on her person but found she couldn't sit still. Practically vibrating from excitement she hopped up and pecked a smooch on the firbolg's cheek before stating, "I wanna go up and watch us set off. There's always time for naps later." Feeling as if they were starting some grand adventure simply because they were on a boat. If they had the same job but it was with a caravan it obviously wouldn't be as exciting. But it wasn't, so it was.
Back up top, the half elf beamed upon seeing the docks seem to move away from them as the Sea Spirit set out into the water. Clutching onto the railing and mouth opening a little in novel amazement as the sails were unfurled and their speed picked up. Even the wind couldn't help with the heat as the sun rose however and she tried to abate it by rolling up her sleeves. Usually a more reclusive person, Alyndra contented herself to simply observing the crew and enjoying the sights and smells, living in the moment a bit. She noticed Bosko and Sunita talking on the other side of the ship and began to walk towards them before catching the woman's expression and stopping. It seemed like they were having a possibly private moment and she didn't want to disrupt their mood or conversation. Instead she began looking for their other recent addition, Markus. He seemed a bit over the top, but certainly like a good conversationalist.
Markus stayed quiet this morning, lost in his thoughts. He had founds no signs of what he was looking for in Feolinn, so why not taking the road. It has been a long time since he travelled. After placing his bags in the room, he joins the others outside, with his fishing rod. He smiles at the team and says "Well, nothing to do here for now, I'm thinking of practising. Who knows I might get something to eat for tonight !"
As he walks, he sees a piece of wood from the handrail that cracked, probably very old, and the salty air doesn't help. He grabs his staff and triggers a few small blue runes to briefly shine. With a little touch and muttering a few words, a little grey cloud puffs out the wooden staff and runs around the broken bits. In a matter of seconds, the small cloud disappears and the handrail is repaired. "Here you go, I know I could be useful here !"
Markus then deploys his rod and give fishing a try. (Rolling Survival ? 8)
"That terrible", Bosko says in reply to Sunita's story, his ears drooping slightly in sympathy. "Not really understand things you talk of, or what not people mean. Or woman-thing", he says with a frown. "If they hurt Sunita and her clan, is bad", he continues with a few nods of his head.
"But....would not want someone die for me".
He looks around at the open waters and takes a deep breath in. "Alyndra not understand when called us clan. Clan means look after each other. Sunita part of clan too, we keep eye out for not people together", he says with a shy grin, his hand still grasping the fishing rod.
He sees Markus across the deck with his rod, and Alyndra too, and reaches up his long furry arm to wave at them.
"Is good belong to clan", he says quietly, more to himself than Sunita.
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Sunita ambles in and waves to Bosko, she pulls up a stool at the table but doesn't eat having stuffed her face on the way over.
" Looks like a nice day at least.."
"Nice day better for boat", Bosko replies simply as he tucks into breakfast.
"You say been on boats before", he adds with a mouthful of food. "What you do on boats?", he asks, trying to get Sunita to talk whilst he eats. He is curious as to what her skills are, other than being, as she said before, strong.
Sleep comes easy to you all, especially to Bosko, Alyndra and Lazarus, who enjoyed quite a few mugs of cider at the festival yesterday. The accommodations at the Serpent Inn are comfortable enough, even if the mattress sizes are a little cramped for Bosko and Larazus, but they don't keep you from drifting off into a slumber that lasts until the early morning.
After a quick breakfast in the common room, which consist of cod scrambled eggs, crab muffins and crispy seafood bake hash, you grab your belongings, leave the inn and hurry down to the docks in the cool morning air, feeling the sea breeze on your faces. Feolinn is not all that big, so you arrive in plenty of time, well before nine bells. You watch the bustling activity that's happening as numerous watercraft, some small, some quite large, are being loaded for departure from port, when well-dressed man with a long, well-groomed mustache calls out to you. Alyndra, Lazarus and Bosko recognize him from yesterday, it's Jorge Simón. He waves you over and greets you.
"Well hello! A fine morning it is, and you are right on time. Early, in fact. I like that. Punctuality is a good trait in the world of business.'
He glances with a slight quizzical look his face and says, "I don't see the tall woman from the mountains, or that small bird-like fellow... and I don't remember seeing these two from yesterday, he nods towards Sunita and Markus, perhaps they chose not to come and instead you found replacements. That's fine with me. We had agreed on five, and I see five of you standing in front of me now, and as far as I'm concerned, that's good in my book. After yesterday, I trust the three of you, and if you deem these two as worthy alternatives that's fine by me."
Addressing the two newcomers, the man continues.
"I don't know what these three have told you, they can fill you in later, but since you are here now with them, and since we are in a hurry, consider yourself hired. 100 gold coins per person to make sure this shipment arrives safely in Palma Flora, which is two-day sail. Our sales rep, Diego will pay you upon arrival. After that, as I told them yesterday, once you arrive, the job is done and you're free to relax by the water, enjoy the shark hunting tournament, sip drinks in the sunshine or do whatever you wish. If you've never bee to Palma Flora, it's quite an idyllic little resort. You're welcome to return to Feolinn at your leisure, or not. I know how you adventurers like to stay on the move."
"To make this official, allow me to introduce myself. I am Jorge Simón of the Solvia Groves Winery, which is your employer for this trip. The other three I know; who are you?"
" Sunita Han of Kamordah. Are you expecting much trouble on the trip across? Pirates? Beasts? Other?"
She flinched slightly as he said the word winery but attempted to cover it with a slight cough.
Jorge answers.
"Sunita Han, you are a ways from home, but many adventures often are, it seems. I am expecting no trouble, and I hope that my gold will pay for you to sit peacefully on the boat for two days, whilst letting your feet dangle over the edge as you enjoy the taste and feel of the salty breeze on your face. However, there has been increased pirate activity out on the open waters lately, so I would be a fool not to anticipate the possibility that the ship might run into some unscrupulous folks who wish to abscond with our product without paying."
As for beasts... yes, there are certainly beats in the ocean, but we rarely have any trouble with those creatures who dwell below the surface. However, you are my insurance, and judging by those two blades you carry, I believe that my money will be well spent.
Sunita smiled a genuine smile for the first time in quite a while.....100 gold would go a long way for her folks....
" Thankyou, looking forward to it."
The night certainly could have been more comfortable. The heat of the Menagerie Coast was still taking some getting used to, especially with cramped beds. Almost made her miss snow. Though the taste of exotic seafood breakfast certainly made up for it a bit. The half elf absolutely scarfed down the crispy seafood baked hash and savored the crab muffins, even saving two for later in her bag wrapped up in a handkerchief. Making sure to drink plenty of water and then top off all of their waterskins, Alyndra set off behind Bosko and Lazarus to Feolinn's port. Still silently marveling at the various impressive vessels until she spied a familiar mustache.
Raising a hand in greeting with polite smile, the auburn haired woman quipped, "Never late if you're always early Mr. Simón." Something drilled into her from a young age. As the wine merchant acknowledged the lack of old faces and presence of new ones, she nodded. "The other two didn't seem interested any longer, why I couldn't say. But these two seem fairly capable in their own way. And you made it seem like more help would be needed. Wouldn't want to leave anything without proper protection." She couldn't recall if it was the representative or the cargo that they were supposed to be protecting. Or both. Probably both. "I'm glad we haven't imposed." Would have been an awkward morning greeting if not.
Glancing over the human as she and Jorge exchanged greetings, Alyndra was glad that while this person obviously wasn't as toweringly intimidating as the goliath woman they had met last night, she certainly seemed to look like she could handle herself. The man on the other hand...well he certainly seemed interesting at the very least. Gently nudging Lazarus she murmured, "Kamordah's just a bit north of Deastok."
The talk of pirates gave her a mild thrill as well as sense of trepidation. "I much prefer pirates when they're fictional and in a book as opposed to a real actual threat that I have to worry about killing us." Alyndra sighed, greatly hoping said theoretical pirates wouldn't ruin this vacation. "Will you be joining us on the voyage Mr. Simón? Or if not, will you introduce us to this Mr. Diego?"
Nym Durnodel - Aspiring Heroes of Faerûn // Danica Amastacia - Red Dead Annihilation
Bosko stays quiet as the the others talk to Jorge. In truth he has no idea how capable Sunita and Markus are, and if all goes well he won't find out on the trip either. But his belly is full of good food, the weather is fine, he has interesting company and is getting to explore more of the Menagarie Coast whilst being paid for the privilege. Times are good.
He looks out at all the boats and wonders which one is going to be taking them on their journey.
Hearing talk turn to pirates, he turns his attention back to the conversation. He had experience with pirates. His hand goes unconsciously to his tricorn hat as the memory of the Orc pirate who previously owned it comes into his mind. He had been lucky that day, and he wouldn't want to come across the brute again.
"Would rather avoid pirates", he says under his breath with a frown on his face.
His smile soon returns though. "Which boat for us?", he asks Jorge.
"I'm sure that most do," Jorge replies with a tight smile. "Hopefully your attitude about pirates will remain unchanged during this journey, but again... Insurance."
He then waves a shorter, slightly stockier man over, who has tanned skin and a thick mat of dark curls on his head. "Diego, this is the party I've assigned to guard the shipment."
Diego nods with a hearty smile and says, "Well, let's get aboard then, no time to waste! We're pushing out shortly, so please... follow me."
Assuming that you do, Jorge says, "Enjoy your journey and whatever time you spend in Palma Flora. I think you'll like the place, it's quite the idyllic vacation spot." He then watches you board.
Diego leads you onto one of the large sailing ships that are docked in the harbor. The vessel, which is called The Sea Spirit, is about 100 feet long by 20 feet wide, and has three 80-foot-tall masts fit with large sails and rigging, and oars that protrude from portholes on the lower deck. As you walk up the gangplank onto the main deck, you see a number of sailors scurrying around, getting the ship ready for sail.
On top of the main deck, you see one mangonel, and 10 large stones stacked next to it. (A mangonel is a type of catapult that hurls heavy projectiles in a high arc.) A single hatch leads down onto the lower deck, and a three foot high rail that runs all around the entire perimeter. Four row boards are stacked on top of each other on this deck. Ropes and pulleys can hoist these boats in and out of the water.
On the Forecastle, which is the raised platform at the front of the boat, you see a single ballista and ten arrows, while on the Quarterdeck at aft, you see another ballista and ten large arrows, as well as the ship's wheel. Behind the wheel, stands a tall, burly man with skin that's even darker than Deigo's, and long dark curls that spill out from beneath a black wool cap.
"That's Captain Kadmos. He runs this ship. You'll get to meet him later, but for now, I'll show you down to your quarters."
He leads you down inside the ship, and you pass through the Lower Deck, which is filled with an assortment of barrels and crates, to the Hold. This area is also filled with cargo, as well as a number of rolled up mats, which the of-duty crew uses for sleeping.
"This will be where you sleep. You're welcome to wander the ship and spent whatever time you wish up on top, but I'd like at least one of you, if not two, out on watch at all times, even during the night.'
"Now, if you'll excuse me, I need to finish with the paperwork for our cargo, but I'm sure we'll see each other later."
Diego heads back up to the main deck, leaving you to whatever you wish to do.
As they tour the ship, Bosko remains quiet but takes note of the mangonel and ballista, and tries to get a look at the captain and crew to see how they are armed. It was obvious that this ship was prepared for hostile encounters, and the fact that extra security on top of that was needed for Jorge's cargo suggests that either the chance of coming across pirates was higher than was made out, or that the crew themselves were not to be trusted.
Of course there was also a chance that Jorge was just a very careful man. It then occurred to him that maybe Diego was bringing their pay along as well, which gave even more reason to be extra mindful.
"Happy to take first watch. Prefer to be in fresh air, not buried in ship cellar", he says as Diego makes his leave.
Lazarus felt as if he fell asleep as soon as he hit the bed but knew that in the midst of the night, he felt the blankets were gonna be the death of him. The heat from himself, added with his wife and THEN the air itself was killer in and out of itself. Though, the drink definitely made sure that he stayed asleep more than anything else and it was the saving grace.
The following morning, he woke to Alyndra getting herself up and awake and he pulled himself up on sheer will alone, his overall appearance seemed to be very off putting. He was not a morning person and it would be simple for anyone to see. He trudged to the breakfast and would grab a muffin and nothing else as it would not give him the best stomach surprise. He would nibble at the muffin and give a light wave of a greeting to Bosko when he saw him.
Lazarus would leave as he saw Bosko leaving, grabbing his supplies and tossing them over his shoulder as they would head to their destination. He wouldn't say much as he felt saying anything in his current mood would only sour the mood overall. He was aiming to focus when the appearance of two others would cause his wife to give him a small nudge that caused him to give a light snarl "..." He then picked up on just what he had heard "Oh, I used to live near there." He aimed to sound as normal as he could given his current state of groggy.
After the small greeting, they would be escorted onto the ship itself and Lazarus was starting to come around. He noticed the catapult with what he could only assume to be the ammo for it if it would come down to it. "That looks like it could be fun. At least, just to launch. To actually FIRE at something that would require it...oh...oh that would be very off putting to say the least."
Then they would be lead down to where they would be sleeping and then how the watch would work and that it would be someone on watch at every given time. Bosko offered the first watch and Lazarus would nod his head. "I guess we can all just relax for a bit and figure out who is going to be watching with who." He would then put his belongings down by the cot that he would belong to him. "Well, I think that I'll just... stay down here... for reasons."
Lazarus Ryder - Adventures Abound in Wildemount
Sunita offers to sit the watch with Bosko, " This is a good sized ship...I was imagining a fishing skiff or the like."
" How long have you been travelling with the couple? They seem nice."
Bosko nods to Lazarus as the Firbolg decides to lie down. He wasn't entirely sure what was up with him, he just seemed a little different, more reserved or somber. Maybe that was normal for his people.
He heads off and walks towards the forecastle of the ship, waiting for it to push off and the voyage to begin. As Sunita walks with him, he looks a little uncomfortable, as he always did with new people of the non goblinoid races.
"This will be first time travelling with them. Met yesterday. New to Feolinn and Alyndra and Lazarus. New to everything beyond Lushgut Forest", he answers, looking a bit sheepish at his inexperience beyond his home forest.
"You live with family clan still?", he says trying to turn the focus away from himself. "Time to spread wings?"
Sunita turned towards Bosko " Lushgut? I don't think I know that one."
When he asked his questions she froze suddenly before forcing herself to answer, " Uh, Um. Kind of...."
" My parents moved down here from Kamordah a few years ago....I stayed behind."
" I.....worked there. Things happened. Bad things.", she shuddered and he could note her grip on the railing was a death grip.
" I came down here to get away from the reminders.....but they live on in my head anyway."
" Sorry....I don't usually talk this much."
You configure your little "sleeping space" down in the hold and lay your bedrolls almost one of the stacks of crates, which you assume to be Diego's cargo. Then while Lazarus remains down below, you head topside and watch as the last preparations are made before launch. Less than 30 minutes after the ninth bell that rings from the local chapel in the center of town, The Sea Spirit pulls away from the dock and you being your journey to Palma Flora.
As you move through the harbor and pull away from the city, you get a good view of the western side of Feolinn and it's attractive rural aesthetic, as well as the plentiful Plumgroves that lie just outside the city. Also see a handful of fishing boats of various sizes heading out to work the bountiful fishing waters in and around the Mother's Sigh Reef, which is located to the west.
Your route also takes you in that direction, and as the sailors row a short ways away from the harbor, the captain gives the order and the crew raises the main sails. As soon as they're unfurled, they catch the morning breeze and you begin traveling at a pretty good clip. Looking back, you watch Feolinn recede into the distance, and soon you find yourselves out on the open water.
The sun shines brightly at your back this morning, and it isn't long before the temperature beings to rise. With perfectly clear air, you have unending visibility all around, and a wonderful view of the flocks of seabirds that soar overhead, occasionally dipping down to catch fish under the surface. Judging by the demeanor of the captain and the crew, it looks to be a good day at sea, and for the most part, at least for now, your only job is to take in the sights and enjoy the view as you ride along as passengers aboard the Sea Spirit.
Bosko doesn’t respond to Sunita as he gets the feeling she might not want to talk more about it. And then the ship gets underway and his attention is further diverted as he takes this new experience in.
The wind rushing through his fur covered body is exhilarating, and the sights of the sea birds hypnotising. He wonders why he never travelled by ship before.
Remembering his purchase he takes out his fishing kit and looks to find a spot to drop a line over the side. Not really sure if it will work travelling at their speed and from this high up, he non the less tries.
His curiosity finally getting the better of him he says to Sunita simply, “Bad things?”.
Sunita had lost herself in the dance of the waves and the cries of the sea birds as they fished and Boskos question brought her crashing back down to earth.
" A lot of people died. All my friends...workmates....friends died. And not just died, they did things to them. There was nothing we could do.....we were just little bits of paper to those things..."
She stopped mumbling and looked up at the tall goblinoid, rather relieved that she hadn't joined the war effort....not only did she not want to be fighting someone this big but Bosko seemed to be a kind soul. She wondered how many more of his kind in the armies of the Kryn Dynasty were of a similar nature....probably quite a few she suspected.
She smiled at him a sad smile, " I was working for another winery at the time, some......not people....", she shuddered. " ......came in the night to claim something from the families collection. I don't even know what they were after...I don't even know how I survived..perhaps the woman-thing thought I was dead? Some family members died as well."
Her eyes became hard as steel, " I'm not going to let that happen again, I will die before I let anything happen to any of you."
As the subject of pirates was discussed, Alyndra couldn't help but notice how Bosko's hand went to his very noticeable hat and her mind immediately began to wonder if the bugbear was a pirate. Focusing back on the man they were just introduced to she greeted, "Good to meet you Mr. Diego. My name is Alyndra." After a heartbeat and realizing the firbolg at her side wasn't speaking up she did so for him, "And this is Lazarus." She could tell he definitely wasn't awake nor thrilled to exist this early in the morning, not that that was unusual for her partner. The half elf simply contented herself to stay quiet as Diego gave them the tour of the ship.
The Sea Spirit wasn't the larges she'd ever seen while perusing docks along their journey of the Menagerie Coast, but certainly the largest she had ever been on. Considering this was the very first one she'd stepped foot on, that wasn't as impressive as one might think but she certainly thought this ship was fairly impressive. The captain was slightly less so but for different reasons. "I knew Captains usually wear hats but I was sort of expecting something different." The wool cap looked like it might be something she could picture an elderly halfling knitting for some reason. At Lazarus' comment about the mangonel, she chuffed a small laugh. "I'll leave that all to you dear."
After they were lead below deck, glancing around the hold where they were shown that they'd be sleeping, the auburn haired woman Smiled fondly at her sleepy partner. "I know you're a night owl but better for you to have watch when there's at least a bit of light out." Pulling over a cot or sleeping roll closer to her husband's own, Alyndra arranged her pack and things she didn't need to have on her person but found she couldn't sit still. Practically vibrating from excitement she hopped up and pecked a smooch on the firbolg's cheek before stating, "I wanna go up and watch us set off. There's always time for naps later." Feeling as if they were starting some grand adventure simply because they were on a boat. If they had the same job but it was with a caravan it obviously wouldn't be as exciting. But it wasn't, so it was.
Back up top, the half elf beamed upon seeing the docks seem to move away from them as the Sea Spirit set out into the water. Clutching onto the railing and mouth opening a little in novel amazement as the sails were unfurled and their speed picked up. Even the wind couldn't help with the heat as the sun rose however and she tried to abate it by rolling up her sleeves. Usually a more reclusive person, Alyndra contented herself to simply observing the crew and enjoying the sights and smells, living in the moment a bit. She noticed Bosko and Sunita talking on the other side of the ship and began to walk towards them before catching the woman's expression and stopping. It seemed like they were having a possibly private moment and she didn't want to disrupt their mood or conversation. Instead she began looking for their other recent addition, Markus. He seemed a bit over the top, but certainly like a good conversationalist.
Nym Durnodel - Aspiring Heroes of Faerûn // Danica Amastacia - Red Dead Annihilation
Markus stayed quiet this morning, lost in his thoughts. He had founds no signs of what he was looking for in Feolinn, so why not taking the road. It has been a long time since he travelled.
After placing his bags in the room, he joins the others outside, with his fishing rod. He smiles at the team and says "Well, nothing to do here for now, I'm thinking of practising. Who knows I might get something to eat for tonight !"
As he walks, he sees a piece of wood from the handrail that cracked, probably very old, and the salty air doesn't help. He grabs his staff and triggers a few small blue runes to briefly shine. With a little touch and muttering a few words, a little grey cloud puffs out the wooden staff and runs around the broken bits. In a matter of seconds, the small cloud disappears and the handrail is repaired. "Here you go, I know I could be useful here !"
Markus then deploys his rod and give fishing a try.
(Rolling Survival ? 8)
Currently Playing: Regdus Ironfist (Greyhawk) Lvl 1 Storm Sorcerer ; Goraseth Drerjoxian (Icespeak) Lvl 3 Paladin Oath of Glory; Lerak (The Wild Beyond the Witchlight) Lvl 3 Barbarian Wild Magic
In Pause: Grimnir " Shadow-Feet", Lv 11 Owner of "The Basilisk & the Monk" (OotA) - Kurma Kappa, Lv 8 Priest of Oghma (ToA)
Currently DM'ing: Princes of Apocalypse >> Tomb of Annihilation
"That terrible", Bosko says in reply to Sunita's story, his ears drooping slightly in sympathy. "Not really understand things you talk of, or what not people mean. Or woman-thing", he says with a frown. "If they hurt Sunita and her clan, is bad", he continues with a few nods of his head.
"But....would not want someone die for me".
He looks around at the open waters and takes a deep breath in. "Alyndra not understand when called us clan. Clan means look after each other. Sunita part of clan too, we keep eye out for not people together", he says with a shy grin, his hand still grasping the fishing rod.
He sees Markus across the deck with his rod, and Alyndra too, and reaches up his long furry arm to wave at them.
"Is good belong to clan", he says quietly, more to himself than Sunita.