As Gustav attempts to evade his captors, in their struggle, he overcompensates and bashes his head into the nearby wall, knocking himself out. A loud cheer erupts. Tie him up boys, we got a present for the cap'n! Also what the hell was that explosion earlier? one asks, as they all sheathe their weapons, and begin carrying Gustav back out, tied up like a prized pork by the time they were done. Tey headed out of the room, and as they rounded the corner of the stairs, confused shouting erupted from the group as they all ran forward, except the four caryrign Gustav himself.
As they ran forward they saw splintered wood, the night sky, and a massive hole in the mid-deck. They all looked at eachother as they approached the edge, Gustav in hand, dagger to his throat Whats goin on 'ere? A few of them shouted down into the hole.
Truk not taking his eyes off the Captain for a split second steps on his right hand to make sure he doesn't have a change of heart and shouts up "Your fine captain was just surrendering and asking us to spare his life. Which I'm happy to do! Hear that good captain. You'll keep your life. Now tell your men over there to leave off with Gustov and have them bring the Bird Man here unharmed!"
"Viktor! You may have to take command sooner than expected while the captain heals because a promise is a promise! But he'll live!"
With the captains weapon hand pinned to the deck the axe falls aimed at his elbow joint. If anyone is looking closely there's a brief look of sadness that passes over his face briefly, as his faith in people is diminished yet again.
As the axe falls he whispers a quick aside to Era "May need some help keeping him alive"
Just as the axe comes down on Alderlocks elbow, the cut is so clean, that Truk feels no resistance, as his blade continues trailing through, and slits the captains throat. The captain, now missing most of an arm, begins to gurgle on the deck, in his last moments of life. The eyes of everyone watching go wide as blood coats the floor. Viktor, the helmsman balks. The ones in the corners of the room cower farther. 'e can't be trusted, his word be meaningless! He's gonna kill us all, lest we do sumfiin first.
The helmsman dashes towards the door leading upstairs.
The group holding Gustav up dangles him over the edge, and reapply their blades to his throat, and various points in his body, obviously intent on skewering and slicing him if their demands to come weren't met. The helmsman makes it just up the stairs, standing just before the giant hole, and pulls out a keyring. Obviously searching for a key, Finally, tossing it downstairs 3 but it slips out of his shaking fingers, falling straight down into the dark hold below. Oi, slags. Go get the manakels from th' capn's room, double time... the two that had been near the door before running around the hole, and heading topdeck.
Now you fine folk 'ave a choice to make. Either you can find that key, and lock yerselves up in that cell you were fightin by, after you put yourself in the manacles, then toss the key out of your range.... or... your pet cat 'ere gets shish-ke-bobbed. What'll it be?
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Truk glancing up at Gustov mouths "I'm sorry my friend" then raising his voice "but I'm no liar!" He them picks up the captains arms and savagely beats the captains corpse yelling out "IS THIS WHAT YOU WANT VIKTOR! HOW YOU GONNA STEER WITH ONE ARM HUH!" Finally throwing the bloody stump to the floor "Know when you've been BEATEN and STAND DOWN!"
Era swipes an arm to dismiss her summoned wolves as she watched Truk bring down his axe on the captain. She heard him say that he may need help keeping the man alive, but... She didn't make a move to do anything about it. She took a second to send a worried glance over to Burgee, opening her mouth to say something inspiring but gets side tracked that the additional voices. Her look darkened when she looked up to see the others holding Gustav hostage, her hands now tightening back into fists, ready to cast another spell to hope to save the cat from their grasp, but Truk shocked her out of it. The genasi turned to watch the giant beat the dead captain's corpse with his own severed arm, the girl unable to contain her laughter at the sight, but quickly regained her composure by clearing her throat, hoping the Truk had successfully intimidated them to not being ********.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Aeydof the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm /ᐠ｡ꞈ｡ᐟ\
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
7
The group is un-nerved quite a bit by the raw barbarism displayed by Truk, the one's above deck shook but stood their ground.. Truk was way down below after-all, but it was clear they were scared. The one's below scrambled for the door, only to find it locked from the other side. Three of the Slavers attacked Gustav's unconscious body. One slitting his throat for 5, two others stabbing him in each side for 6 total, before chucking hos body down into the hold below, dealing another 6 Bludgeoning damage, resulting in 1 failed death save, 2 remain. Gustav's body landed on top of one of the cages, his legs sprawled over the edge.
Above, the pirates are scrambling to grab one of the tables, and hammer it against the locked door. 19 though they rush the job, the table sticks. Some of them going to the barrels in the middle-holding area, with all the barrels, trying to drag them in front of the table to add extra difficulty. 23 - 19 - 15 the last of the three accidentally dropping the barrel downstairs as it slips out of their hands, breaking nearby on the ground.
We'll leave those lilly livered cowards down there for you to do whatever with. Tear em apart fer all we care... But stay put, and you won't be hurt. his voice was shaky, but Viktor turned his back to the hole, heading off. Three o' you on watch at all times. I need to get back to the wheel.... The sooner we make land, the better Make sure they don't try anything.... The rest leaving the hole, the last three being forced to take watch.
The remaining 3 downstairs (19, 15, 16) begin to scream, knowing they've been abandoned, and all of them suffering from severe injuries.
The door leading up on your level DC to break is 10 ATHL. The upstairs door, will require 2 DC12 ATHL checks, first breaks the door, the second pushes the barred items out of the way.
You can also attempt to climb up, or fly up, etc through the hole. There are only 3 Slavers guarding but they're watching what you all do, but don't seem to be shooting.. apparently you're all worth more alive than dead...
The rest have gone to lick their wounds, or rest.
There are meany slaves, 1 per cage, including the one crying due to Truk's intimidation.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Era's eyes widened, the genasi now in a mixture of fear and anger, seeing the men assault Gustav's unconscious body before throwing him down the hole, Era reaching out for him, casting Levitate to spare him from getting hurt even further than he already was. She shoots them all a death glare as she lowers the tabaxi down, gently bringing him to a clear floor space free from debris, before rushing towards him to assess his wounds. "How can people be so... So...!!" She groans as she grows frustrated, wanting nothing more than to abolish all the slavers on this ship by throwing them off the plank! Or whatever the term was!
As she settles beside Gustav she tries to calm herself down, closing her eyes and taking in a deep breath as her hands hovered over his chest. A hum would emit from the back of her throat causing the white tattoos that she once donned before to reappear again as a translucent figure started to manifest behind her, taking the form of a woman with vines for hair and skin of bark. She joined in unison with the humming, flickers of white surrounding the trio now.
Healing Spirit at Third Level to heal our favorite suave kitty for 9. Anyone who gets close also is healed for that much.
((if possible, era would also like to walk around once gustav is stabilized and alive to heal the slaves with her spirit too!!))
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Aeydof the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm /ᐠ｡ꞈ｡ᐟ\
Truk seeing that Era is helping Gustov says quietly to her "They're going to be sorry they did that. Thank you for helping him! The old fellow doesn't look so good. I'm going to search the captain here and see if I can find some keys and let these slaves out"
Truk will then search the captain thoroughly calling out to the remaining crew that's left here "Settle down you three. I don't hold you responsible for doing your captains bidding. Just sit down out of the way, nurse your wounds and be quiet!"
Gustav coughs up a little blood as he stirs and slowly comes back to conscious. A mixture of emotions play on his face, but none linger as as Era's face resolve in his vision. Instinctively, he reaches out to touch cheek, and wipe away any budding tears. Gustav had to stop half-way as an attempt to speaking only resulted in another coughing fit. A small fit one that he curtly tries brush aside by focusing on rolling back onto his hands and knees before eventually finding his feet again.
While examining the hold for the first time, the sight of the body of the captain gets a small smirk out of the old cat. Then looking to Truk, he starts to say something, but pauses hearing the impromptu barrier work the crew try to put together. It wouldn't hold. Not for long. But while they at least had something of reprieve he began checking the cages occupants. If he can see or have Burgee pointed out to him then Gustav starts over to him first to start unlocking his cage with some of his smaller thieves' tools pulled from various sleeves, hidden clothing pockets, and the like.
Not trusting his throat at the moment, he tries to keep Burgee calm with a bloody toothed grin and the occasional whispered words for guidance to avoid straining his throat too much.
Thieves' Tools: (3)24 (for the cage, if needed. Otherwise for the manacles on bird friend)
Thieves' Tools: (2)32 (Same deal as above, though for the manacle portion.)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
"Free! I'm Free! Thank you. Thank you." Burgee caws as Gustav succeeds where he had not. "What we do now? I can make wind!" he cries. He moves over toward Era's side, "You ok? Oi, the lilly livered sons of whores!," he crones out a voice that is very hard to distinguish from Alderlock's, "They have the deal with me! " he shouts as he points to the upper deck.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Though not currently a member, seeking admission to the really long and important signature club. Please consider this as a current CV.
As the spirit forms, Gustav is healed slightly, his wounds closing enough that they were no longer bleeding, but little else. Though he could always pass through her again.... The spirit however, floats passively through each of the cages, making 'rounds' and healing the slaves from exhaustion.. the slavers kept them at a permanent state of exhaustion, making it far more difficult for them to attempt to escape. They all seemed to sigh with relief, though they were still locked within their cages for now. And while still exhausted, they felt lighter. The spirit eventually returning to Era's. Era would note that the spirit was strikingly similar in appearance to her mother, down to the last freckle.
The slavers that were trapped now, down with the party, seemed to look at each other, a bit confused, but they bit their tongues, not wanting to risk a word to be misinterpreted for anything, regardless, they would crawl to the opposite corner of wherever Truk was at any given moment. As truk searches Alderlocks body, aside from his two shortswords, and his pocket crossbow, he had his leather armors, which likely wouldn't fit anyone except Burgee, and even then it'd be a stretch. In the captains pocket, was a wind-up watch, and a Compass, that seemed damaged, but in working enough condition to be considered viable. A silken handkerchief lie in his pocket, stained now with his blood, and a spyglass tucked into his belt, and a vial of 'Enhanced' Drow Poison.
Hidden in his back pocket was a small set of iron keys, that likely go to the cages down here, as well as other doors. You don't need to make a check to use the keys, just assume you sometimes don't get the right key the first time. Aside from this, the captain has nothing else on his person.
Gustav is either led to, or finds his way to Burgee's cage, Burgee's wrists now bloody, though healed as the spirit passed by him earlier had given up on breaking out due to the pain of the attempts. Regardless, Gustav makes easy work of both the cage door itself, and Burgee's manacles. Freeing the Kenku from his containment entirely, for which Burgee showed his gratitude in the way Burgee always did.
Those with darkvision can see down here relatively well thanks to the slight light from the massive hole, and notice there are doors on both sides of the hold, one more a massive iron gate, while the other was a simple iron door.
If you free any of the prisoners, you notice they're all beast-folk...
Three of them, including the crying female, are all Tabaxi. The one crying couldn't be older than her pre-teens. The other two male adults.
two of them, Minotaurs, one male, one female.
An Aarakocra with his wings removed, sad sullenly.
Two of them Lizardfolk, both males.
The last one, being a bugbear, 9 in total.
Unique Event: Slaves
If you choose to free them, decide who is going to take control of each one you free. Meaning yes, the players will be controlling these NPC's. They have no classes, and can only use unarmed strikes, unless armed by you. Their AC is 10 unless armored by you. They can attack twice with fits per round, for 1d4each. They all have 8HP. All their Ability Scores are 9's. The only thing that makes them unique is they will have their racial traits, such as 'hammering horns' for the Minotaurs. They are all suffering from level 1exhaustion that will not go away until they've had proper rest
They have no names. If you choose to control them, you may name them. At a later time, you may choose to 'train' them into a class, which will take time and rolls. They all start at level 1. They gain no 'exp' until they have a class.
If you choose to control them as a playable-NPC, you will determine their personalities and goals yourself.
Alternatively, you can attempt to sell the slaves yourself for 2500 gold per slave. Any slaves not controlled by players, will 'go their own way' if they survive long enough.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
"Calm self... For now, free others... Then open path..."Gustav rasping comes to an end with him rubbing his neck. Shaking off sensation at least mentally, he surveys the rest of the room. The sight of remaining slavers now huddled into a ball in the corner brings a brief but fleeting smile. "Truk make their disarmed, and pass the keys to someone." He calls in between coughs.
Eventually finding reason again to stay quiet, Gustav licks and washes away the iron taste from his mouth with a waterskin. Then several globules of light are summoned to further brighten up the area. Not by much, but enough that folk without the blessing of the cat king are less likely to lose each other. Afterwards, he hops over to the Tabaxi, or close to them. While later not proud of it, he hesitates and looks between them and the minotaurs knowing the latter could better guard on the slavers. Ultimately, he picks his way over to his fellow catfolk and starts working on their cage lock and manacles with his picks.
When he finds before each attempt, a mutters a brief prayer. At other times during the work he says, "How is she?" But he refrains from little more than a solemn glance in the kittens direction.
Thieves' Tools: (1)18 (for the cage, if needed. Otherwise for the manacles on bird friend)
Thieves' Tools: (4)26 (Same deal as above, though for the manacle portion.)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Truk hearing Gustov feels it only right that Burgee have the keys to the cells and shackles having been locked up himself. For now he leaves everything but the keys with the captains corpse and walks up to Burgee. "Hello. I am called Truk. It seems only right that you should have these" and he hands him the keys. He then makes his way to the slavers that are left with us and says "We're going to need your weapons. Throw them in a pile in front of you."
Era couldn't help but smile down at Gustav seeing his eyes open again, her hand gently holding his for a moment before helping him to his feet and making her round to heal the poor slaves around them. She gave them all words of encouragement, as best as she could muster, to bring back some sort of spirit that may have been long since lost since their capture. She dismisses her guardians with a somber smile, but it was quickly replaced seeing Burgee free from his chains, giving the kenku a tight hug, then decided to give a hug to Gustav as well, then eventually moved to give one to Truk. "You all seem to be the only people I can kind of trust here." She looks over the slaves. "These poor people... I hope that we can give them their lives back again."
She would go over to the group of slaves, pulling out a handful of berries for them to take if they wished. "It doesn't look like much, but I promise they'll keep your bellies full for right now! I promise we're gonna get out of here, okay?"
Aeydof the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm /ᐠ｡ꞈ｡ᐟ\
"Burgee.It's Burgee," he says to Truk. "Thank you all." Burgee takes the keys and proceeds to the cage holding the aarakocra. His eyes sad but understanding, Burgee opens the cage to let the slave out. He points to the aarakocra's back and then to his own. Then pointing skyward he adds in a strange dialect he recalls from his childhood, "We will fly." He looks over toward Era and points, "Friend". Burgee screeches out a sound like that of an eagle as he continues to communicate with the bird man. They approach Era together and Burgee introduces the aarakocra as Kauil.
He hands the keys back to Truk saying, "Others for you."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Though not currently a member, seeking admission to the really long and important signature club. Please consider this as a current CV.
All the slaves are in as good of condition as possible, considering, especially after being healed, any wounds they had received before healing up. The Crying Tabaxi in the cage seemed deathly afraid of Truk, though she was more malleable towards the rest of the group as slowly the cages were unlocked by Gustav, though he failed occasionally, he eventually got used to the pins within the mechanism, and was able to unlock all the cages he wished (tell me what cages you unlock)
The younger Tabaxi also seems to be mostly calming down, so long as Truk stays away from her. The boat seems to lurch forward, apparently the ship was moving again. The thee guards seemed to be paying no mind, though they did seem disappointed that you hadn't killed their comrades below. One shooting a bolt, intentionally missing, near Burgee's feet to try to scare him, but aside from this, they simply watched what you were all doing. Occasionally slinging a slur or insult down at the group, and laughing.
The slavers down below knew they were outmatched, and tossed over their weapons, a total of 3 rapiers, and 3 crossbows could be collected, as well as a total of 60 bolts, 20 from each. Other than that, all they had on their persons were their clothing. Which at this point, you would notice.. all the slaves weren't even wearing rags.. they were all naked, other than the fur.. or feathers on their backs.
The Aarakocra's spirit would be mostly broken, it will take some time for him to be mentally 'better' but he can and will fight if it will get him some modicum of freedom. Kauil is now under Burgee's control. The Teen Tabaxi, the Lizardfolk, and one of the Minotaurs are under Gustav's control. The child-female will be forever scarred by Truk's intimidation and violence, please keep that in mind.
The slaves took the berries Era offered, gladly eating them, feeling quite full after the fact, and thanking her, but not talking, they seemed to not have hope that they would still be free'd, as they were all still trapped down below, and the slavers hadn't been dealt with.
Here is your situation:
It is now midnight. There is about another 16 hours before your ship makes it to Arandorianis. You may take a long rest, if you all so choose. Please, in your next posts, declare whom you control.
If you do take a long rest, 8 hours will remain until landfall. Every full round of posting will consume an hour, unless combat begins again.
So describe what you all wish to do, talk to eachother, etc, then take your rest. You're about to hit the Island the campaign takes place on soon!
Gustav sees to it that ALL slaves were freed from the cages. That is, after making sure his spine was still in working order following Era's hug. An unexpected delight, but a slightly painful one for the still wounded Tabaxi. Those he personally opens using his picks are the Lizardfolk brothers, Misfortunate Tabaxi trio, and the Bugbear. Aside from the elder male of the Tabaxi trio, it is the teen that gravitated to him, eventually finding a bit more comfort hanging off the old tabaxi's back. Whether it was the wizened look to him, or immediate concern that drew her to him, he could not say for certain. The lizardfolk brothers and bugbears similarly fell in step with him as he checked over the others.
Gus & Ka the grey-green scaled lizardfolk were even less inclined to speak than Eager Wonder the Tabaxi. But were always frank yet respectful around Gustav, treating him more as some venerated elder or chief to follow than some random old cat. Nin, the great black-furred bugbear reluctant to do more than sleep, took some goading at first before the offer at being allowed to roughly put the just barely fitting manacles on the slavers. Then shoving them all into his originally foul smelling cage. Needless to say, the rest of the journey was not to be a comfort cruise for them.
"Petty creatures, these folk are aren't they Eager?"He asks of the girl after Burgee gets nearly shot, distracting her again from Truk. Then look to the arrangement of weapons, Gustav sees to it that at least one of the rapiers find a home with Ka and Gus. That had been the plan until he notice them drag away any of the dead men laying around to a corner to fashion clubs out their bones. Those cunning artisans knew there stuff. He took great care in covering little eager's ears during the process, and focus her attention on learning how to wield the hand crossbow strapped to his back.
Nin takes a slaver crossbow, 20 bolts, and Gustav's spare dagger. He makes a makeshift fundoshi out some slaver shirts. Eager gets Gustav's handcrossbow and bolts as a small comfort, along with the shirt off his back for some decency. Ka and Gus, if their are any dead have their knew bone cloves and a decent meal to supplement the berries. Eventually reconvening with the others proper, Gustav sits with them and says in hushed, raspy tones, "It won't be long now. Chances are those pricks up top will find some means of amusing themselves keeping us up there with shifts. So we take a short rest, yah? Then make way up and commandeer the ship. Gonna need a distraction though.. Mr. Burgee? Lady Era? Think you can summon up those distractions? And get Turk up there with you? I can get at least Ka and Gus to manage things, though--"He glances over to Eager who had taken to riding on the bugbears back after being convinced he was just a giant tabaxi. "Maybe with Nin supervision. Either way, need to move tonight if we're redirect the ship to another landing?"
(If its safe to assume they do so and none pick them up, I imagine the remaining tabaxi pair at least take any remaining slaver crossbows and bolts? And the minotaur sister gets a rapier?)
(If taking the short rest, here's the hit die spent: 16.)
Gustav's Mini Crew:
Lizardfolk Bros: Gus and Ka AC: 12(13-1 due to natural armor) Weapons: Bone Clubs Racial Skills: [Gus]Survival, Nature;[Ka]Perception, Stealth Cunning Artisan: Bite Attack: 1d6-1, gain
Bugbear: Nin AC: 10 Weapons: L. Crossbow, Dagger Racial Skills: Stealth Long Limbed Darkvision: 60ft
Eager Wonder: Tabaxi Teen AC: 10 Weapons: H. Crossbow Racial Skills: Stealth, Perception Cat Claws: 1d4-1 Feline Agility Dark Vision
"Aye mate. More than distract. Burgee can do it," Burgee states to Gustav's query. In fact, his temperament is turning toward revenge and he's getting a bit hasty. "Burgee ready now. Lock Burgee up," he says pointing to the cages, "Send them to their watery grave," he says pointing toward the upper deck.
He pats Kauil, on the shoulder as he screeches in Auran tones of the sky he recalled from his youth. Kauil listened intently as the sounds indicated he would be safe with Burgee and Era. Burgee let him know that together, they would find a way to fly in the skies again.
He walks up to Era and sees she's hurt from the fighting. He mimics the voice of the old woman he spent so much time with, "Can Burgee help? I'm sorry I was not there with you. Burgee will not leave Era." He finds his gear and grabs his carved staff. "If we get up on deck, I can get ship to island. Need to find charts, and wind will blow our way." He touches her softly on her back. "We will find what you seek."
OOC - If we long rest, I'll take it, but not needed, only one spell slot used since I was locked up for the rough part.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Though not currently a member, seeking admission to the really long and important signature club. Please consider this as a current CV.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Truk returning Era's hug and blushing says "We are pack now! I will always shield you when needed!" The to cover his embarrassment he starts striping the armor off the captain and offers up the swords and crossbow to anyone who needs them to arm the freed slaves. He would offer the poison to Gustov "You may find this useful" He'll keep the spyglass just because it's neat :)
When the crossbow bolt hit's the floor everyone could see it's taking Truk effort to control himself. He growls out softly "we need a plan quickly before try to kill them all myself"
Listening to Gustov and Burgee, Truk nods in agreement. "I wouldn't mind a bit of a rest either but I agree we should act as soon as we can. I can climb or push my out of here but their bolts could be a problem"
(Anything said involving a plan is said is a low voice as to not be overheard by the leftover crew)
As Gustav attempts to evade his captors, in their struggle, he overcompensates and bashes his head into the nearby wall, knocking himself out. A loud cheer erupts. Tie him up boys, we got a present for the cap'n! Also what the hell was that explosion earlier? one asks, as they all sheathe their weapons, and begin carrying Gustav back out, tied up like a prized pork by the time they were done. Tey headed out of the room, and as they rounded the corner of the stairs, confused shouting erupted from the group as they all ran forward, except the four caryrign Gustav himself.
As they ran forward they saw splintered wood, the night sky, and a massive hole in the mid-deck. They all looked at eachother as they approached the edge, Gustav in hand, dagger to his throat Whats goin on 'ere? A few of them shouted down into the hole.
(the ball is in the players court)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Truk not taking his eyes off the Captain for a split second steps on his right hand to make sure he doesn't have a change of heart and shouts up "Your fine captain was just surrendering and asking us to spare his life. Which I'm happy to do! Hear that good captain. You'll keep your life. Now tell your men over there to leave off with Gustov and have them bring the Bird Man here unharmed!"
"Viktor! You may have to take command sooner than expected while the captain heals because a promise is a promise! But he'll live!"
With the captains weapon hand pinned to the deck the axe falls aimed at his elbow joint. If anyone is looking closely there's a brief look of sadness that passes over his face briefly, as his faith in people is diminished yet again.
As the axe falls he whispers a quick aside to Era "May need some help keeping him alive"
Attack: 26 Damage: 17
That's what happens when you wear a helmet your whole life!
My house rules
Just as the axe comes down on Alderlocks elbow, the cut is so clean, that Truk feels no resistance, as his blade continues trailing through, and slits the captains throat. The captain, now missing most of an arm, begins to gurgle on the deck, in his last moments of life. The eyes of everyone watching go wide as blood coats the floor. Viktor, the helmsman balks. The ones in the corners of the room cower farther. 'e can't be trusted, his word be meaningless! He's gonna kill us all, lest we do sumfiin first.
The helmsman dashes towards the door leading upstairs.
The group holding Gustav up dangles him over the edge, and reapply their blades to his throat, and various points in his body, obviously intent on skewering and slicing him if their demands to come weren't met. The helmsman makes it just up the stairs, standing just before the giant hole, and pulls out a keyring. Obviously searching for a key, Finally, tossing it downstairs 3 but it slips out of his shaking fingers, falling straight down into the dark hold below. Oi, slags. Go get the manakels from th' capn's room, double time... the two that had been near the door before running around the hole, and heading topdeck.
Now you fine folk 'ave a choice to make. Either you can find that key, and lock yerselves up in that cell you were fightin by, after you put yourself in the manacles, then toss the key out of your range.... or... your pet cat 'ere gets shish-ke-bobbed. What'll it be?
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Burgee see's the spirit totem come near him, and he feels bolstered.. Makign another attempt to break free of the shackles....
17
but even with the bolstered strngth, his previous attempts had caused him intense pain.
Skwaaa, I'm trying Era..... I really am...
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Truk glancing up at Gustov mouths "I'm sorry my friend" then raising his voice "but I'm no liar!" He them picks up the captains arms and savagely beats the captains corpse yelling out "IS THIS WHAT YOU WANT VIKTOR! HOW YOU GONNA STEER WITH ONE ARM HUH!" Finally throwing the bloody stump to the floor "Know when you've been BEATEN and STAND DOWN!"
Intimidation: 22
That's what happens when you wear a helmet your whole life!
My house rules
Era swipes an arm to dismiss her summoned wolves as she watched Truk bring down his axe on the captain. She heard him say that he may need help keeping the man alive, but... She didn't make a move to do anything about it. She took a second to send a worried glance over to Burgee, opening her mouth to say something inspiring but gets side tracked that the additional voices. Her look darkened when she looked up to see the others holding Gustav hostage, her hands now tightening back into fists, ready to cast another spell to hope to save the cat from their grasp, but Truk shocked her out of it. The genasi turned to watch the giant beat the dead captain's corpse with his own severed arm, the girl unable to contain her laughter at the sight, but quickly regained her composure by clearing her throat, hoping the Truk had successfully intimidated them to not being ********.
Aeyd of the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk
Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm
Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid
Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue
Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm
/ᐠ｡ꞈ｡ᐟ\
7
The group is un-nerved quite a bit by the raw barbarism displayed by Truk, the one's above deck shook but stood their ground.. Truk was way down below after-all, but it was clear they were scared. The one's below scrambled for the door, only to find it locked from the other side. Three of the Slavers attacked Gustav's unconscious body. One slitting his throat for 5, two others stabbing him in each side for 6 total, before chucking hos body down into the hold below, dealing another 6 Bludgeoning damage, resulting in 1 failed death save, 2 remain. Gustav's body landed on top of one of the cages, his legs sprawled over the edge.
Above, the pirates are scrambling to grab one of the tables, and hammer it against the locked door. 19 though they rush the job, the table sticks. Some of them going to the barrels in the middle-holding area, with all the barrels, trying to drag them in front of the table to add extra difficulty. 23 - 19 - 15 the last of the three accidentally dropping the barrel downstairs as it slips out of their hands, breaking nearby on the ground.
We'll leave those lilly livered cowards down there for you to do whatever with. Tear em apart fer all we care... But stay put, and you won't be hurt. his voice was shaky, but Viktor turned his back to the hole, heading off. Three o' you on watch at all times. I need to get back to the wheel.... The sooner we make land, the better Make sure they don't try anything.... The rest leaving the hole, the last three being forced to take watch.
The remaining 3 downstairs (19, 15, 16) begin to scream, knowing they've been abandoned, and all of them suffering from severe injuries.
The door leading up on your level DC to break is 10 ATHL. The upstairs door, will require 2 DC12 ATHL checks, first breaks the door, the second pushes the barred items out of the way.
You can also attempt to climb up, or fly up, etc through the hole. There are only 3 Slavers guarding but they're watching what you all do, but don't seem to be shooting.. apparently you're all worth more alive than dead...
The rest have gone to lick their wounds, or rest.
There are meany slaves, 1 per cage, including the one crying due to Truk's intimidation.
You can also choose to wait till landfall, etc.
(editing)
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Era's eyes widened, the genasi now in a mixture of fear and anger, seeing the men assault Gustav's unconscious body before throwing him down the hole, Era reaching out for him, casting Levitate to spare him from getting hurt even further than he already was. She shoots them all a death glare as she lowers the tabaxi down, gently bringing him to a clear floor space free from debris, before rushing towards him to assess his wounds. "How can people be so... So...!!" She groans as she grows frustrated, wanting nothing more than to abolish all the slavers on this ship by throwing them off the plank! Or whatever the term was!
As she settles beside Gustav she tries to calm herself down, closing her eyes and taking in a deep breath as her hands hovered over his chest. A hum would emit from the back of her throat causing the white tattoos that she once donned before to reappear again as a translucent figure started to manifest behind her, taking the form of a woman with vines for hair and skin of bark. She joined in unison with the humming, flickers of white surrounding the trio now.
Healing Spirit at Third Level to heal our favorite suave kitty for 9. Anyone who gets close also is healed for that much.
((if possible, era would also like to walk around once gustav is stabilized and alive to heal the slaves with her spirit too!!))
Aeyd of the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk
Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm
Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid
Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue
Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm
/ᐠ｡ꞈ｡ᐟ\
Truk seeing that Era is helping Gustov says quietly to her "They're going to be sorry they did that. Thank you for helping him! The old fellow doesn't look so good. I'm going to search the captain here and see if I can find some keys and let these slaves out"
Truk will then search the captain thoroughly calling out to the remaining crew that's left here "Settle down you three. I don't hold you responsible for doing your captains bidding. Just sit down out of the way, nurse your wounds and be quiet!"
That's what happens when you wear a helmet your whole life!
My house rules
Gustav coughs up a little blood as he stirs and slowly comes back to conscious. A mixture of emotions play on his face, but none linger as as Era's face resolve in his vision. Instinctively, he reaches out to touch cheek, and wipe away any budding tears. Gustav had to stop half-way as an attempt to speaking only resulted in another coughing fit. A small fit one that he curtly tries brush aside by focusing on rolling back onto his hands and knees before eventually finding his feet again.
While examining the hold for the first time, the sight of the body of the captain gets a small smirk out of the old cat. Then looking to Truk, he starts to say something, but pauses hearing the impromptu barrier work the crew try to put together. It wouldn't hold. Not for long. But while they at least had something of reprieve he began checking the cages occupants. If he can see or have Burgee pointed out to him then Gustav starts over to him first to start unlocking his cage with some of his smaller thieves' tools pulled from various sleeves, hidden clothing pockets, and the like.
Not trusting his throat at the moment, he tries to keep Burgee calm with a bloody toothed grin and the occasional whispered words for guidance to avoid straining his throat too much.
Thieves' Tools: (3)24
(for the cage, if needed. Otherwise for the manacles on bird friend)
Thieves' Tools: (2)32
(Same deal as above, though for the manacle portion.)
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
"Free! I'm Free! Thank you. Thank you." Burgee caws as Gustav succeeds where he had not. "What we do now? I can make wind!" he cries. He moves over toward Era's side, "You ok? Oi, the lilly livered sons of whores!," he crones out a voice that is very hard to distinguish from Alderlock's, "They have the deal with me! " he shouts as he points to the upper deck.
Though not currently a member, seeking admission to the really long and important signature club. Please consider this as a current CV.
Other personalities... Burgee , The Colorless Knight, Fiorello, RW Goodbarrel, Dred, Evrik - Out of the Abyss & Dungeon of the Mad Mage
Site Rules & Guidelines || Tooltips || Homebrew FAQ || Snippet Codes || Syllvva's Guides
As the spirit forms, Gustav is healed slightly, his wounds closing enough that they were no longer bleeding, but little else. Though he could always pass through her again.... The spirit however, floats passively through each of the cages, making 'rounds' and healing the slaves from exhaustion.. the slavers kept them at a permanent state of exhaustion, making it far more difficult for them to attempt to escape. They all seemed to sigh with relief, though they were still locked within their cages for now. And while still exhausted, they felt lighter. The spirit eventually returning to Era's. Era would note that the spirit was strikingly similar in appearance to her mother, down to the last freckle.
The slavers that were trapped now, down with the party, seemed to look at each other, a bit confused, but they bit their tongues, not wanting to risk a word to be misinterpreted for anything, regardless, they would crawl to the opposite corner of wherever Truk was at any given moment. As truk searches Alderlocks body, aside from his two shortswords, and his pocket crossbow, he had his leather armors, which likely wouldn't fit anyone except Burgee, and even then it'd be a stretch. In the captains pocket, was a wind-up watch, and a Compass, that seemed damaged, but in working enough condition to be considered viable. A silken handkerchief lie in his pocket, stained now with his blood, and a spyglass tucked into his belt, and a vial of 'Enhanced' Drow Poison.
Hidden in his back pocket was a small set of iron keys, that likely go to the cages down here, as well as other doors. You don't need to make a check to use the keys, just assume you sometimes don't get the right key the first time. Aside from this, the captain has nothing else on his person.
Gustav is either led to, or finds his way to Burgee's cage, Burgee's wrists now bloody, though healed as the spirit passed by him earlier had given up on breaking out due to the pain of the attempts. Regardless, Gustav makes easy work of both the cage door itself, and Burgee's manacles. Freeing the Kenku from his containment entirely, for which Burgee showed his gratitude in the way Burgee always did.
Those with darkvision can see down here relatively well thanks to the slight light from the massive hole, and notice there are doors on both sides of the hold, one more a massive iron gate, while the other was a simple iron door.
If you free any of the prisoners, you notice they're all beast-folk...
Three of them, including the crying female, are all Tabaxi. The one crying couldn't be older than her pre-teens. The other two male adults.
two of them, Minotaurs, one male, one female.
An Aarakocra with his wings removed, sad sullenly.
Two of them Lizardfolk, both males.
The last one, being a bugbear, 9 in total.
Unique Event: Slaves
If you choose to free them, decide who is going to take control of each one you free. Meaning yes, the players will be controlling these NPC's. They have no classes, and can only use unarmed strikes, unless armed by you. Their AC is 10 unless armored by you. They can attack twice with fits per round, for 1d4 each. They all have 8HP. All their Ability Scores are 9's. The only thing that makes them unique is they will have their racial traits, such as 'hammering horns' for the Minotaurs. They are all suffering from level 1 exhaustion that will not go away until they've had proper rest
They have no names. If you choose to control them, you may name them. At a later time, you may choose to 'train' them into a class, which will take time and rolls. They all start at level 1. They gain no 'exp' until they have a class.
If you choose to control them as a playable-NPC, you will determine their personalities and goals yourself.
Alternatively, you can attempt to sell the slaves yourself for 2500 gold per slave. Any slaves not controlled by players, will 'go their own way' if they survive long enough.
Occassional Dungeon Master.
"Calm self... For now, free others... Then open path..." Gustav rasping comes to an end with him rubbing his neck. Shaking off sensation at least mentally, he surveys the rest of the room. The sight of remaining slavers now huddled into a ball in the corner brings a brief but fleeting smile. "Truk make their disarmed, and pass the keys to someone." He calls in between coughs.
Eventually finding reason again to stay quiet, Gustav licks and washes away the iron taste from his mouth with a waterskin. Then several globules of light are summoned to further brighten up the area. Not by much, but enough that folk without the blessing of the cat king are less likely to lose each other. Afterwards, he hops over to the Tabaxi, or close to them. While later not proud of it, he hesitates and looks between them and the minotaurs knowing the latter could better guard on the slavers. Ultimately, he picks his way over to his fellow catfolk and starts working on their cage lock and manacles with his picks.
When he finds before each attempt, a mutters a brief prayer. At other times during the work he says, "How is she?" But he refrains from little more than a solemn glance in the kittens direction.
Thieves' Tools: (1)18
(for the cage, if needed. Otherwise for the manacles on bird friend)
Thieves' Tools: (4)26
(Same deal as above, though for the manacle portion.)
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
Truk hearing Gustov feels it only right that Burgee have the keys to the cells and shackles having been locked up himself. For now he leaves everything but the keys with the captains corpse and walks up to Burgee. "Hello. I am called Truk. It seems only right that you should have these" and he hands him the keys. He then makes his way to the slavers that are left with us and says "We're going to need your weapons. Throw them in a pile in front of you."
That's what happens when you wear a helmet your whole life!
My house rules
Era couldn't help but smile down at Gustav seeing his eyes open again, her hand gently holding his for a moment before helping him to his feet and making her round to heal the poor slaves around them. She gave them all words of encouragement, as best as she could muster, to bring back some sort of spirit that may have been long since lost since their capture. She dismisses her guardians with a somber smile, but it was quickly replaced seeing Burgee free from his chains, giving the kenku a tight hug, then decided to give a hug to Gustav as well, then eventually moved to give one to Truk. "You all seem to be the only people I can kind of trust here." She looks over the slaves. "These poor people... I hope that we can give them their lives back again."
She would go over to the group of slaves, pulling out a handful of berries for them to take if they wished. "It doesn't look like much, but I promise they'll keep your bellies full for right now! I promise we're gonna get out of here, okay?"
Aeyd of the Dragons || Wood Elf / Way of the Ascendant Dragon Monk
Demetrios Zalaoras || Protector Aasimar / Paladin of Torm
Hawke || Kalashtar / Circle of the Moon Druid
Morticia || Half-Aasimar Rogue
Yvan || Goliath / Path of the Wild Soul Barbarian | Paladin of Helm
/ᐠ｡ꞈ｡ᐟ\
"Burgee.It's Burgee," he says to Truk. "Thank you all." Burgee takes the keys and proceeds to the cage holding the aarakocra. His eyes sad but understanding, Burgee opens the cage to let the slave out. He points to the aarakocra's back and then to his own. Then pointing skyward he adds in a strange dialect he recalls from his childhood, "We will fly." He looks over toward Era and points, "Friend". Burgee screeches out a sound like that of an eagle as he continues to communicate with the bird man. They approach Era together and Burgee introduces the aarakocra as Kauil.
He hands the keys back to Truk saying, "Others for you."
Though not currently a member, seeking admission to the really long and important signature club. Please consider this as a current CV.
Other personalities... Burgee , The Colorless Knight, Fiorello, RW Goodbarrel, Dred, Evrik - Out of the Abyss & Dungeon of the Mad Mage
Site Rules & Guidelines || Tooltips || Homebrew FAQ || Snippet Codes || Syllvva's Guides
All the slaves are in as good of condition as possible, considering, especially after being healed, any wounds they had received before healing up. The Crying Tabaxi in the cage seemed deathly afraid of Truk, though she was more malleable towards the rest of the group as slowly the cages were unlocked by Gustav, though he failed occasionally, he eventually got used to the pins within the mechanism, and was able to unlock all the cages he wished (tell me what cages you unlock)
The younger Tabaxi also seems to be mostly calming down, so long as Truk stays away from her. The boat seems to lurch forward, apparently the ship was moving again. The thee guards seemed to be paying no mind, though they did seem disappointed that you hadn't killed their comrades below. One shooting a bolt, intentionally missing, near Burgee's feet to try to scare him, but aside from this, they simply watched what you were all doing. Occasionally slinging a slur or insult down at the group, and laughing.
The slavers down below knew they were outmatched, and tossed over their weapons, a total of 3 rapiers, and 3 crossbows could be collected, as well as a total of 60 bolts, 20 from each. Other than that, all they had on their persons were their clothing. Which at this point, you would notice.. all the slaves weren't even wearing rags.. they were all naked, other than the fur.. or feathers on their backs.
The Aarakocra's spirit would be mostly broken, it will take some time for him to be mentally 'better' but he can and will fight if it will get him some modicum of freedom. Kauil is now under Burgee's control. The Teen Tabaxi, the Lizardfolk, and one of the Minotaurs are under Gustav's control. The child-female will be forever scarred by Truk's intimidation and violence, please keep that in mind.
The slaves took the berries Era offered, gladly eating them, feeling quite full after the fact, and thanking her, but not talking, they seemed to not have hope that they would still be free'd, as they were all still trapped down below, and the slavers hadn't been dealt with.
Here is your situation:
It is now midnight. There is about another 16 hours before your ship makes it to Arandorianis. You may take a long rest, if you all so choose. Please, in your next posts, declare whom you control.
If you do take a long rest, 8 hours will remain until landfall. Every full round of posting will consume an hour, unless combat begins again.
So describe what you all wish to do, talk to eachother, etc, then take your rest. You're about to hit the Island the campaign takes place on soon!
Occassional Dungeon Master.
Gustav sees to it that ALL slaves were freed from the cages. That is, after making sure his spine was still in working order following Era's hug. An unexpected delight, but a slightly painful one for the still wounded Tabaxi. Those he personally opens using his picks are the Lizardfolk brothers, Misfortunate Tabaxi trio, and the Bugbear. Aside from the elder male of the Tabaxi trio, it is the teen that gravitated to him, eventually finding a bit more comfort hanging off the old tabaxi's back. Whether it was the wizened look to him, or immediate concern that drew her to him, he could not say for certain. The lizardfolk brothers and bugbears similarly fell in step with him as he checked over the others.
Gus & Ka the grey-green scaled lizardfolk were even less inclined to speak than Eager Wonder the Tabaxi. But were always frank yet respectful around Gustav, treating him more as some venerated elder or chief to follow than some random old cat. Nin, the great black-furred bugbear reluctant to do more than sleep, took some goading at first before the offer at being allowed to roughly put the just barely fitting manacles on the slavers. Then shoving them all into his originally foul smelling cage. Needless to say, the rest of the journey was not to be a comfort cruise for them.
"Petty creatures, these folk are aren't they Eager?" He asks of the girl after Burgee gets nearly shot, distracting her again from Truk. Then look to the arrangement of weapons, Gustav sees to it that at least one of the rapiers find a home with Ka and Gus. That had been the plan until he notice them drag away any of the dead men laying around to a corner to fashion clubs out their bones. Those cunning artisans knew there stuff. He took great care in covering little eager's ears during the process, and focus her attention on learning how to wield the hand crossbow strapped to his back.
Nin takes a slaver crossbow, 20 bolts, and Gustav's spare dagger. He makes a makeshift fundoshi out some slaver shirts. Eager gets Gustav's handcrossbow and bolts as a small comfort, along with the shirt off his back for some decency. Ka and Gus, if their are any dead have their knew bone cloves and a decent meal to supplement the berries. Eventually reconvening with the others proper, Gustav sits with them and says in hushed, raspy tones, "It won't be long now. Chances are those pricks up top will find some means of amusing themselves keeping us up there with shifts. So we take a short rest, yah? Then make way up and commandeer the ship. Gonna need a distraction though.. Mr. Burgee? Lady Era? Think you can summon up those distractions? And get Turk up there with you? I can get at least Ka and Gus to manage things, though--" He glances over to Eager who had taken to riding on the bugbears back after being convinced he was just a giant tabaxi. "Maybe with Nin supervision. Either way, need to move tonight if we're redirect the ship to another landing?"
(If its safe to assume they do so and none pick them up, I imagine the remaining tabaxi pair at least take any remaining slaver crossbows and bolts? And the minotaur sister gets a rapier?)
(If taking the short rest, here's the hit die spent: 16.)
Gustav's Mini Crew:
Lizardfolk Bros: Gus and Ka
AC: 12(13-1 due to natural armor)
Weapons: Bone Clubs
Racial Skills: [Gus]Survival, Nature;[Ka]Perception, Stealth
Cunning Artisan:
Bite Attack: 1d6-1, gain
Bugbear: Nin
AC: 10
Weapons: L. Crossbow, Dagger
Racial Skills: Stealth
Long Limbed
Darkvision: 60ft
Eager Wonder: Tabaxi Teen
AC: 10
Weapons: H. Crossbow
Racial Skills: Stealth, Perception
Cat Claws: 1d4-1
Feline Agility
Dark Vision
Goyo - [Tortle]Druid/Warlock - Circle of Sea/Celestial (Libretalia)
Vogan - [Goliath-Hill]Bard - ???(A Dungeon-Delving Campaign Group C)
Jack Vicvan - [Eladrin]Warlock - Archfey
"Aye mate. More than distract. Burgee can do it," Burgee states to Gustav's query. In fact, his temperament is turning toward revenge and he's getting a bit hasty. "Burgee ready now. Lock Burgee up," he says pointing to the cages, "Send them to their watery grave," he says pointing toward the upper deck.
He pats Kauil, on the shoulder as he screeches in Auran tones of the sky he recalled from his youth. Kauil listened intently as the sounds indicated he would be safe with Burgee and Era. Burgee let him know that together, they would find a way to fly in the skies again.
He walks up to Era and sees she's hurt from the fighting. He mimics the voice of the old woman he spent so much time with, "Can Burgee help? I'm sorry I was not there with you. Burgee will not leave Era." He finds his gear and grabs his carved staff. "If we get up on deck, I can get ship to island. Need to find charts, and wind will blow our way." He touches her softly on her back. "We will find what you seek."
OOC - If we long rest, I'll take it, but not needed, only one spell slot used since I was locked up for the rough part.
Though not currently a member, seeking admission to the really long and important signature club. Please consider this as a current CV.
Other personalities... Burgee , The Colorless Knight, Fiorello, RW Goodbarrel, Dred, Evrik - Out of the Abyss & Dungeon of the Mad Mage
Site Rules & Guidelines || Tooltips || Homebrew FAQ || Snippet Codes || Syllvva's Guides
Truk returning Era's hug and blushing says "We are pack now! I will always shield you when needed!" The to cover his embarrassment he starts striping the armor off the captain and offers up the swords and crossbow to anyone who needs them to arm the freed slaves. He would offer the poison to Gustov "You may find this useful" He'll keep the spyglass just because it's neat :)
When the crossbow bolt hit's the floor everyone could see it's taking Truk effort to control himself. He growls out softly "we need a plan quickly before try to kill them all myself"
Listening to Gustov and Burgee, Truk nods in agreement. "I wouldn't mind a bit of a rest either but I agree we should act as soon as we can. I can climb or push my out of here but their bolts could be a problem"
(Anything said involving a plan is said is a low voice as to not be overheard by the leftover crew)
Short rest HP: 28
That's what happens when you wear a helmet your whole life!
My house rules