"I sure did Nubrel! These long legs need room to stretch out, you know! And how about that fine breakfast, did you get yourself some of that this morning? Better than we had on The 'Glass, aye?"
'As they are walking, Kestrell spies the Quarter Master':
"Pardon me, Quarter Master Daegrin, good morning to you! I have a list of additional items needed for Navigation. Will you please have these delivered to the Navigators Room?"
'Kestrell removes a rolled list from inside his tunic pocket and holds it out to Daegrin.'
OOC:List is in the spoiler. It's not a spoiler, just a way to condense the list.
'Kestrell's big current and former shipmate sighs somewhat glumly, glancing quickly at the first mate, before whispering back,'
"Aye, I managed to grab a bite or two to eat... but would have loved another three, four or five... if'n me 'services' weren't required right quickly."
'The pinched faced quarter master nods a greeting back, takes the list to peruse briefly, before responding,'
"Much of this we already have 'board ship, so you can send someone to the hold whenever you like for it. That takes care of the lantern, oil, ink and quill, though I might pick up more of the later considering our recent losses. You planning to light that navigation room of yours up like the sun? One good hooded lantern will normally suffice for a room that size, but feel free to grab another from the stores below deck. I'll mark all that down on my ledger.
Believe I saw that the captain brought plenty of paper North with him - apparently the man likes his letters, so I'm sure I can get you some of that, though I'll let you know this afternoon. Probably be of a better quality as well than what you're like to find around here.
As for the bound journal, hour glasses and compass, well we might find the first and the last here in Rumbottom somewhere, or we might not, least not ones that don't already have owners who want to keep'em. Ships captains and navigators usually pick those precious items up in larger ports or have them made special like. Probably why Captain Aundrey gave you that might generous gift at our meal last night. As for the hour glasses well I don't like your chances getting that here, being something of luxoury items as they are. I believe that I saw one in the captains own cabin though, so maybe if you asked him nicely...
Of course, such fine things are not cheap or easily found, so if you did need me to see what I can dig up, then, as I mentioned to the good ships cook, you'll need to have the captain or mate here sign off on it first. Should you get that permission, we'll I'm not saying that I definitely can or can't find them, of course, but I'll certainly make enquiries, thogh even old Daegrin can't magic things out of thin air!
And on them cookies... well, there's a bakery here in town or so I'm told. My job isn't to fetch your hearts fondest cravings, officer Kestrell. It's to keep the ship and her crew supplied on what they need. Other things you may well need to find for yourself, no offense intended."
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
'Kestrell's big current and former shipmate sighs somewhat glumly, glancing quickly at the first mate, before whispering back,'
"Aye, I managed to grab a bite or two to eat... but would have loved another three, four or five... if'n me 'services' weren't required right quickly."
'A look of concern comes over Kestrell's face, then he whispers back:'
"Nubrel, it is good to have your services be in demand. It shows that people value your efforts. That might mean you have to get up a little earlier in order to get those fourth or fifth bites...In the long run, it will mean you'll have more coin to buy ale with! Seriously though, I might be able to get us some chocolate chip cookies. Like those ones we had on shore leave in Port Ventharil, remember how good those were?!?"
'Kestrell slaps Nubrel on the back.'
"Keep it up, my good man. We'll be at sea before too long, with the wind in our face, and the stars above us."
'The pinched faced quarter master nods a greeting back, takes the list to peruse briefly, before responding,'
...
"Ah, very good, Quarter Master! I can just get it from the hold? That is fantastic news!"
"Light it up like the sun, you say?!? Hahaha! No, but I tell you what, you try reading some of these old, musty charts with tiny, messy, handwritten notes in the dark on a stormy night, waves moving everything all over, the more light the better, that is for sure!"
"It doesn't have to be a bound journal, that surely makes it easier though. I can make do with loose paper just fine, if that's all we have. Yes, that sure was a nice gift. It has one of everything we need. We don't want to be a week out to sea, in the middle of that same storm, no way to see the stars, and our only compass is lying on the floor in pieces. So we end up sailing in circles for days on end until the worst happens. Yes, the ale runs out! We don't want that do we?"
OOC: Persuasion to persuade Daegrin to try to get a compass without written permission from the captain. 15
'At the mention of the cookies, Kestrell laughs:'
"My apologies, I know that's not your job, Quarter Master, but I put that on there to see how closely you were reading it. Of course you are doing an excellent job at your...job. I needn't have worried. Now that you mention it, I may check out that bakery. Can't you just smell them now? Tell you what, if I get to that bakery, I'll bring you back a freshly baked cookie."
"Alright, I'll get the lantern, oil, ink and quill from the hold, you are going to check on paper, and a compass. "
'Kay had smiled smugly as A'ro protested being called master and does so again as he asks her Druht's story.' "His name is Druht, er so'm told. He's a big, black, dragonborn, and he saved my life the other day. More'n that, ye'll have to ask him Master of Sails? Ain' that right friend Druht?" ''Kay elbows the big guy, probably striking him in the hip due to their size difference.'
'Kay marvels at Virt as he sews his strange spell and reaches out a hand, but pulls back, thinking maybe it's best not to test it right in front of the First Mate. Which makes her look at the First Mate. Which makes her think she should probably look busy.' "Right... uh... we've many errands to run, so if that's all perhaps we should be about our business. Er... not that I'm handin' out orders, the three of you fine gentlemen outrankin' me an all. Just thinkin'... er... lot's to do... might as well get goin' and that... heh... right?"
He just looks at Vaken who seems to have missed him standing with Kay and Kestrell “I know I’m small mate, but damn that’s just cold.”
Vaken looks extremely embarrassed and freezes for a moment, then bowing says"My apologies for not seeing you there Sail Master. As I walked up I heard Kay mention the Pirate and got to the thinking about the coin that was owed me and forgot my manners. I hope you'll forgive me."
Anyways, Daegrin 'ere wants to head down to Horgoths and mentioned that ye might accompany him, Vaken. An' the rest of ye know what yer 'bout, so I'll wish ye all a busy an' productive day!"
"Oh, well, thank you for letting me knew Nubrel." Glancing at Kay,"Guess I won't be accompanying you to the Pirate after all."
”Good morning, crew. We’re already running late, should we be going? Already have another mission to accomplish, thieves be comin’ and taking supplies, they do. But me sets them a trap.” Virt says with a smile as he informs everyone what him and the First Mate and Quarter Master discussed.
"Good morning Master Mage. I don't think we're in danger of running late, yet. I just received word that I was to run an errand with the quartermaster. After that I'll be ready to head out, though."
'As they are walking, Kestrell spies the Quarter Master':
"Pardon me, Quarter Master Daegrin, good morning to you! I have a list of additional items needed for Navigation. Will you please have these delivered to the Navigators Room?"
After Kestrell finishes talking with Daegrin, Vaken steps forward and in a bit of a formal tone says to the quartermaster,"I'm ready to head to Horgoths whenever you are, sir."
A’ro just gave her a playful smile ‘Oh so that’s how you want to play this – little do you know this is what I’m good at sweetie’ was all he could think to himself as he thought what to say. Finally, it hit him and he just leaned in right next to her ear “If you must keep calling me that I guess we’ll just have to bring out the spankings for a smart ass like you.” with that he gave her a wink and just kept walking waiting for the response or massive blush that he was expecting from the girl a huge playful smile decorating his face.
He looked to the Druht and smiled 'I'll be excited to hear about your story friend.'
'Kestrell's big current and former shipmate sighs somewhat glumly, glancing quickly at the first mate, before whispering back,'
"Aye, I managed to grab a bite or two to eat... but would have loved another three, four or five... if'n me 'services' weren't required right quickly."
'A look of concern comes over Kestrell's face, then he whispers back:'
"Nubrel, it is good to have your services be in demand. It shows that people value your efforts. That might mean you have to get up a little earlier in order to get those fourth or fifth bites...In the long run, it will mean you'll have more coin to buy ale with! Seriously though, I might be able to get us some chocolate chip cookies. Like those ones we had on shore leave in Port Ventharil, remember how good those were?!?"
'Kestrell slaps Nubrel on the back.'
"Keep it up, my good man. We'll be at sea before too long, with the wind in our face, and the stars above us."
'The pinched faced quarter master nods a greeting back, takes the list to peruse briefly, before responding,'
...
"Ah, very good, Quarter Master! I can just get it from the hold? That is fantastic news!"
"Light it up like the sun, you say?!? Hahaha! No, but I tell you what, you try reading some of these old, musty charts with tiny, messy, handwritten notes in the dark on a stormy night, waves moving everything all over, the more light the better, that is for sure!"
"It doesn't have to be a bound journal, that surely makes it easier though. I can make do with loose paper just fine, if that's all we have. Yes, that sure was a nice gift. It has one of everything we need. We don't want to be a week out to sea, in the middle of that same storm, no way to see the stars, and our only compass is lying on the floor in pieces. So we end up sailing in circles for days on end until the worst happens. Yes, the ale runs out! We don't want that do we?"
OOC: Persuasion to persuade Daegrin to try to get a compass without written permission from the captain. 7
'At the mention of the cookies, Kestrell laughs:'
"My apologies, I know that's not your job, Quarter Master, but I put that on there to see how closely you were reading it. Of course you are doing an excellent job at your...job. I needn't have worried. Now that you mention it, I may check out that bakery. Can't you just smell them now? Tell you what, if I get to that bakery, I'll bring you back a freshly baked cookie."
"Alright, I'll get the lantern, oil, ink and quill from the hold, you are going to check on paper, and a compass. "
'Nubrel smiles back as he hurries off to the end of the wharf as directed, calling back,'
"Oh, aye, I remember. Weren't them the special mushroom ones that rat-breath spinster made ye to try and get ye to stick around? Ha!"
'Deagrin is begining to turn back to the empty crates and boxes, writing down entries on his own piece of paper, when he realises that Kestrell is still speaking. Turning back, the halfling gives the handsome much taller man a knowing grin... before his rat-like face goes stone cold and he says with biting sarcasm,'
"Ohh, well of course I'll just break the rules for you on our second day on the job then shall I, navigator Kestrell? Hells, why not - I mean, it's not like I really want to keep this 'ere job that I just acquired, or would mind having to explain to the good captain and his senior officers... one of whom's standing right there by-the-by, why I circumvented their express directions on requisition process.
And on a broken ship's compass, considering they're might precious, expensive AND one of the primary tools of yer supposed trade... I'd suggest you DON'T break or lose it. You see this here loose leaf of paper? The reason it ain't my stores ledger is because I keep that nice and safe like aboard ship, rather having to transcribe notes and such than risk losing that valuable piece of my professional kit. See where I'm coming from? Hmmm..."
'As the quarter master turns away with an intentional *hmphf*, Kestrell looks directly into the eyes of the dissaproving first mate E'strue who merely says,'
"It's always seemed to me that any handsome man of a certain height and status thinks that he can get away with most anythin' if'n he should just happen to smile and wink 'nough times. Of course, many of those types of men wind up either dead or forgotten in some dump somewhere... Useless sots, for the most part.
Daegrin, see that ye get those extra stores that we need and that have been approved ordered from Horgoth and delivered right quick, then get back here to supervise the loadin' of most of these boxes and crates... leavin' those designated by Mr. Virt there fer our light fingered friends..."
'Without another word, the first mate strides back up the gangplank, calling out for Bosun Drannick as she goes. Daegrin for his part looks at Vaken and then the rest of you with a smile, sucks in a lungful of fresh salt air, and then begins walking South along the wharf.'
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
'Sure enough, Kay's eyes grow wide with surprise and her face is scarlet. She quickly turns to Vaken to talk to anyone about a different subject."That's unfortunate, Chef. Would y'like me t'ask after yer wages with Virgel?"
'Kay had smiled smugly as A'ro protested being called master and does so again as he asks her Druht's story.' "His name is Druht, er so'm told. He's a big, black, dragonborn, and he saved my life the other day. More'n that, ye'll have to ask him Master of Sails? Ain' that right friend Druht?" ''Kay elbows the big guy, probably striking him in the hip due to their size difference.'
'Before moving away to take his place as part of the ships mage's trap and barely noticing Kay's elbow to his hip, Druhut gives the smaller woman another quite frightening smile and spares a nod for A'ro.'
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
Anyways, Daegrin 'ere wants to head down to Horgoths and mentioned that ye might accompany him, Vaken. An' the rest of ye know what yer 'bout, so I'll wish ye all a busy an' productive day!"
"Oh, well, thank you for letting me knew Nubrel." Glancing at Kay,"Guess I won't be accompanying you to the Pirate after all."
”Good morning, crew. We’re already running late, should we be going? Already have another mission to accomplish, thieves be comin’ and taking supplies, they do. But me sets them a trap.” Virt says with a smile as he informs everyone what him and the First Mate and Quarter Master discussed.
"Good morning Master Mage. I don't think we're in danger of running late, yet. I just received word that I was to run an errand with the quartermaster. After that I'll be ready to head out, though."
'As they are walking, Kestrell spies the Quarter Master':
"Pardon me, Quarter Master Daegrin, good morning to you! I have a list of additional items needed for Navigation. Will you please have these delivered to the Navigators Room?"
After Kestrell finishes talking with Daegrin, Vaken steps forward and in a bit of a formal tone says to the quartermaster,"I'm ready to head to Horgoths whenever you are, sir."
'Daegrin, hearing Vaken's somewhat dispirited words, turns to notice the group of figures looking uncertainly at each other, before the oft-moody halfling says with a smile at the big cook,'
"Well, of course you don't have to accompany me to Horgoth's, Vaken. It ain't an order as such, and you do look like you've something pressing that you wish to do with these others first. I just thought that if you were in town for the morning that you could ask the man yourself about those maces and sages that you mentioned yesterday.
Tell you what, I'll order the salt and pepper we discussed along with the rest of the stores, and ask about the rest of them herbs and spices you mentioned, and the milk of course, but if you're down near the South end of the wharf, you drop on in to Horgoth's Stores and Salvage yourself to make enquiries, eh? Can't get no fairer than that, right?"
'Nodding his small bulbous nosed and bespectacled face at you all, Daegrin turns and heads towards the Southern part of the wharf.'
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
A’ro just gave her a smile as he watched her turn scarlet – it was his little victory over the conversation for now. As Druhut nodded he just exchanged it, looking back to the group.
As Vaken exchanged words about trying to get spices with Daegrin he just quieted down listening. He waited until a decision was made by the man before looking at the group “So what shall we do first?”
'Daegrin, hearing Vaken's somewhat dispirited words, turns to notice the group of figures looking uncertainly at each other, before the oft-moody halfling says with a smile at the big cook,'
"Well, of course you don't have to accompany me to Horgoth's, Vaken. It ain't an order as such, and you do look like you've something pressing that you wish to do with these others first. I just thought that if you were in town for the morning that you could ask the man yourself about those maces and sages that you mentioned yesterday.
Tell you what, I'll order the salt and pepper we discussed along with the rest of the stores, and ask about the rest of them herbs and spices you mentioned, and the milk of course, but if you're down near the South end of the wharf, you drop on in to Horgoth's Stores and Salvage yourself to make enquiries, eh? Can't get no fairer than that, right?"
'Nodding his small bulbous nosed and bespectacled face at you all, Daegrin turns and heads towards the Southern part of the wharf.'
Vaken paused, unsure if this was a trap or not, searched for the correct answer that wouldn't offend the quartermaster, "Forgive me if I sounded as though I didn't wish to go. Second day on the ship and I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed with all the things that need to get done today. But I'll do as you suggest and go to Horgoth's later on, after I check a few items off today's to-do list."
As Vaken exchanged words about trying to get spices with Daegrin he just quieted down listening. He waited until a decision was made by the man before looking at the group “So what shall we do first?”
"As long as visiting the Pirate is on the list, it doesn't matter to me what order we do it all in."
"As long as visiting the Pirate is on the list, it doesn't matter to me what order we do it all in."
"To the Apothecary then! Let's pick up the Captain's package posthaste! After that we can complete our errands around town and maybe find another sailor or two to round out the crew!"
'Heading East along Dock Street, one of the town's four major roads, the party swings right at a large dilapidated house of old build and design. Avoiding the nearby Town Square, the group instead heads South down River Road, towards the not-too-distant South Gate. Street traffic is still light on account of the early hour, though a few more of the town's hardy men and woman are now beginning to emerge to go about their day's business. The salty on-shore winds are somewhat diffused here by the town's buildings, though as you all near the palisade and still-closed gate you can all see the distant tree tops beyond the rough wooden-stake walls blowing about in the stiff sea-side breeze.
As you all approach the gate, you can see three Wardens, including the young watchwoman Beatrice and a tall middle-aged guard with black/grey straight shoulder length hair and a scraggly beard. The other two wardens are beginning to open the gate, while you all hear the bearded man's *booming* laugh carry up the street as you approach,'
"HA! Come on Beatrice, put your back in to it, lass. You as well, Tarpin! Warden's shouldn't be accussed of holdin' up the good honest folk of Rumbottom, or those who might wish to visit our lovely little town. You two rolled lowest, so that means you're on openin' and closin' duties today while I gets to play senior watch warden for the day. Ahh, love me some dice, I surely do. Hahaha!"
'As the gate swings open, the Warden apparently named Tarpin glumly goes and leans on a spear on the gate's right-side, while Beatrice does likewise on the left. Noticing your approach, the loud mouthed bearded man standing beside the road calls out,'
"Hail good travellers. Garet's me name and watchin's me game! Headin' out for the mornin' or day, are we? Or travellin' further perhaps?
[OOC] Everyone may make perception checks and look at the relevant spoilers:
DC 10:
'The Warden Garet is making no move to block the now open gate. The man is standing casually, hands upon his leather armour clad hips, shortsword and handaxe upon his belt. Less than ten feet to the right of the gates, you can see the long, solid Warden's Lodge building running East along a short road. A couple of windows are open and about sixty feet away, an unfamiliar Warden is standing by the buildings closed front door.'
DC 15:
'A weathered and battered table sits against the palisade nearby, an old tin cup and some six-sided dice scattered across its top. Despite his casual tone and manner, Warden Garet is studying you all quite intently, apparently hoping for a response. Approximately sixty feet beyond the now open gates, you can see the South Road crosses an old stone bridge which arcs over and above the narrow but fast flowing Saltware River.'
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
"Hail Garet! I’m A’ro and being blue is my game. Beautiful day to just going for a stroll, down the road be back in time for lunch, hopefully if we don’t get caught up in just enjoying the day. You three fine gate watchers going to be watching this fine gate all day?”A’ro just looks at the man keeping a smile as they walk his hand just giving a casual wave, when his words hit fine gate watcher he gives a quick wink over to Beatrice and then looks back to Garet.
"Hail Garet! I’m A’ro and being blue is my game. Beautiful day to just going for a stroll, down the road be back in time for lunch, hopefully if we don’t get caught up in just enjoying the day. You three fine gate watchers going to be watching this fine gate all day?”A’ro just looks at the man keeping a smile as they walk his hand just giving a casual wave, when his words hit fine gate watcher he gives a quick wink over to Beatrice and then looks back to Garet.
'Beatrice smiles somewhat guardedly at A'ro, despite the woman's size and obvious strength, while Garet laughs loudly and gestures through the open gate in a courtly-like fashion, saying,'
"Nice to meet you, A'ro of the Blue Game! The day sure looks to be a beaut and worth the enjoyin', no doubt. We'll be here till later this afternoon, so mayhap we'll see you and your interesting lookin' friends again on your way back. Farewell out there!" 'Neither Garet nor the other Wardens do anything to impede your travel to and through the South Gate.'
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
'Crossing the old stone bridge over Saltware River, your party moves beyond the immediate surrounds of Rumbottom town, following River Road up into the gentle rises of the burgeoning hills South of the harbour. The well-worn larger road soon splits however, continuing ever Southwards while a smaller goat track branches off on a slight incline angled up towards the distant copse covered bluffs. Taking the smaller path, the party's trek for the first hour is a pleasant one, with green somewhat rocky pastures stretching out to the coast's edge and away South to thicker forests and riverlands barely visible upon the distant horizon.
After another hour of hiking, the terrain becomes a little rougher, as the incline steepens and the thickets of trees and large rocky outcroppings become more frequent. Cresting a ragged rise that runs in Southwesterly-Northeasterly line across this rugged countryside, you all catch sight of larger, denser woods ahead that appear to run the length of this section of bluffs. With little choice but to follow what is little more than meandering two-foot wide goat-track now, your party passes beneath the overhead canopy and into the shade and shadows of the trees.
The sounds of insect and wildlife is thick beneath the canopy, almost as thick as the lush emerald foliage hanging from the broad branches of the often giant and ancient trees here. The path ahead, such as it is, tends to dissapear at times, falling away into small creeks or beneath tangled tree roots. Ocassionally, the sounds of larger wildlife can be heard moving through the woods, whether boars, stags or more predatory creatures, you cannot easily tell. Almost an hour into the woods, the lack of a discernable trail forces you to stop within a small tree-ringed clearing, beside a tranquil though algae coated pond. You have been travelling in a mostly South-Westerly direction, but now that avenue is blocked by thick impenetrable undergrowth and the insect-rich pond itself.
Short of heading back the way you came, the only possible directions for travel appear to be directly West through thick curtains of thorn covered leaf and vines that rise away in a slight incline, or South across rocky ground that appears to dip away into a mass of narrow rock and branch choked gullies and crevices. Neither direction looks promising or easy to traverse.'
[OOC] You may all make either perception, survival or nature checks (make one of these, not all) and read the spoiler if you get a score of 15 or higher.
'The rocky ground to the South looks slippery and trecherous, the narrow defiles a likely place to twist ankles or break legs. On many of the broken and rotted stumps strewn in that direction, you see thin spider web coating, even catching a glimpse of one far above the ground, twenty feet or more up in the higher branches overhead.
The thorns amidst the thick foliage look nasty, easily large enough to tear armour... or flesh. You also spot beautiful purple and red blooms growing admist the tangled curtains of flora. The slight incline to the West should, you would imagine, lead upwards towards the line of bluffs and cliffs that overlook the sea to the West and Rumbottom Harbour to the North East.'
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
'Kestrell's big current and former shipmate sighs somewhat glumly, glancing quickly at the first mate, before whispering back,'
"Aye, I managed to grab a bite or two to eat... but would have loved another three, four or five... if'n me 'services' weren't required right quickly."
'The pinched faced quarter master nods a greeting back, takes the list to peruse briefly, before responding,'
"Much of this we already have 'board ship, so you can send someone to the hold whenever you like for it. That takes care of the lantern, oil, ink and quill, though I might pick up more of the later considering our recent losses. You planning to light that navigation room of yours up like the sun? One good hooded lantern will normally suffice for a room that size, but feel free to grab another from the stores below deck. I'll mark all that down on my ledger.
Believe I saw that the captain brought plenty of paper North with him - apparently the man likes his letters, so I'm sure I can get you some of that, though I'll let you know this afternoon. Probably be of a better quality as well than what you're like to find around here.
As for the bound journal, hour glasses and compass, well we might find the first and the last here in Rumbottom somewhere, or we might not, least not ones that don't already have owners who want to keep'em. Ships captains and navigators usually pick those precious items up in larger ports or have them made special like. Probably why Captain Aundrey gave you that might generous gift at our meal last night. As for the hour glasses well I don't like your chances getting that here, being something of luxoury items as they are. I believe that I saw one in the captains own cabin though, so maybe if you asked him nicely...
Of course, such fine things are not cheap or easily found, so if you did need me to see what I can dig up, then, as I mentioned to the good ships cook, you'll need to have the captain or mate here sign off on it first. Should you get that permission, we'll I'm not saying that I definitely can or can't find them, of course, but I'll certainly make enquiries, thogh even old Daegrin can't magic things out of thin air!
And on them cookies... well, there's a bakery here in town or so I'm told. My job isn't to fetch your hearts fondest cravings, officer Kestrell. It's to keep the ship and her crew supplied on what they need. Other things you may well need to find for yourself, no offense intended."
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
'A look of concern comes over Kestrell's face, then he whispers back:'
"Nubrel, it is good to have your services be in demand. It shows that people value your efforts. That might mean you have to get up a little earlier in order to get those fourth or fifth bites...In the long run, it will mean you'll have more coin to buy ale with! Seriously though, I might be able to get us some chocolate chip cookies. Like those ones we had on shore leave in Port Ventharil, remember how good those were?!?"
'Kestrell slaps Nubrel on the back.'
"Keep it up, my good man. We'll be at sea before too long, with the wind in our face, and the stars above us."
"Ah, very good, Quarter Master! I can just get it from the hold? That is fantastic news!"
"Light it up like the sun, you say?!? Hahaha! No, but I tell you what, you try reading some of these old, musty charts with tiny, messy, handwritten notes in the dark on a stormy night, waves moving everything all over, the more light the better, that is for sure!"
"It doesn't have to be a bound journal, that surely makes it easier though. I can make do with loose paper just fine, if that's all we have. Yes, that sure was a nice gift. It has one of everything we need. We don't want to be a week out to sea, in the middle of that same storm, no way to see the stars, and our only compass is lying on the floor in pieces. So we end up sailing in circles for days on end until the worst happens. Yes, the ale runs out! We don't want that do we?"
OOC: Persuasion to persuade Daegrin to try to get a compass without written permission from the captain. 15
'At the mention of the cookies, Kestrell laughs:'
"My apologies, I know that's not your job, Quarter Master, but I put that on there to see how closely you were reading it. Of course you are doing an excellent job at your...job. I needn't have worried. Now that you mention it, I may check out that bakery. Can't you just smell them now? Tell you what, if I get to that bakery, I'll bring you back a freshly baked cookie."
"Alright, I'll get the lantern, oil, ink and quill from the hold, you are going to check on paper, and a compass. "
'Kay had smiled smugly as A'ro protested being called master and does so again as he asks her Druht's story.' "His name is Druht, er so'm told. He's a big, black, dragonborn, and he saved my life the other day. More'n that, ye'll have to ask him Master of Sails? Ain' that right friend Druht?" ''Kay elbows the big guy, probably striking him in the hip due to their size difference.'
'Kay marvels at Virt as he sews his strange spell and reaches out a hand, but pulls back, thinking maybe it's best not to test it right in front of the First Mate. Which makes her look at the First Mate. Which makes her think she should probably look busy.' "Right... uh... we've many errands to run, so if that's all perhaps we should be about our business. Er... not that I'm handin' out orders, the three of you fine gentlemen outrankin' me an all. Just thinkin'... er... lot's to do... might as well get goin' and that... heh... right?"
~♡~
Vaken looks extremely embarrassed and freezes for a moment, then bowing says "My apologies for not seeing you there Sail Master. As I walked up I heard Kay mention the Pirate and got to the thinking about the coin that was owed me and forgot my manners. I hope you'll forgive me."
"Oh, well, thank you for letting me knew Nubrel." Glancing at Kay, "Guess I won't be accompanying you to the Pirate after all."
"Good morning Master Mage. I don't think we're in danger of running late, yet. I just received word that I was to run an errand with the quartermaster. After that I'll be ready to head out, though."
After Kestrell finishes talking with Daegrin, Vaken steps forward and in a bit of a formal tone says to the quartermaster, "I'm ready to head to Horgoths whenever you are, sir."
Campaigns:
DM - Waterdeep Dragon Heist PbP
A’ro just gave her a playful smile ‘Oh so that’s how you want to play this – little do you know this is what I’m good at sweetie’ was all he could think to himself as he thought what to say. Finally, it hit him and he just leaned in right next to her ear “If you must keep calling me that I guess we’ll just have to bring out the spankings for a smart ass like you.” with that he gave her a wink and just kept walking waiting for the response or massive blush that he was expecting from the girl a huge playful smile decorating his face.
He looked to the Druht and smiled 'I'll be excited to hear about your story friend.'
Campaigns:
Wildemount: The Felderwin Irregulars (2020) - Balassar Silverstone - Dragonborn Fighter (Rune Knight) Lv. 5 | Rise of TIamat - Aiwin Aralana - Wood Elf Fighter/Ranger (Arcane Archer/Gloom Stalker) Lv. 9
'Nubrel smiles back as he hurries off to the end of the wharf as directed, calling back,'
"Oh, aye, I remember. Weren't them the special mushroom ones that rat-breath spinster made ye to try and get ye to stick around? Ha!"
'Deagrin is begining to turn back to the empty crates and boxes, writing down entries on his own piece of paper, when he realises that Kestrell is still speaking. Turning back, the halfling gives the handsome much taller man a knowing grin... before his rat-like face goes stone cold and he says with biting sarcasm,'
"Ohh, well of course I'll just break the rules for you on our second day on the job then shall I, navigator Kestrell? Hells, why not - I mean, it's not like I really want to keep this 'ere job that I just acquired, or would mind having to explain to the good captain and his senior officers... one of whom's standing right there by-the-by, why I circumvented their express directions on requisition process.
And on a broken ship's compass, considering they're might precious, expensive AND one of the primary tools of yer supposed trade... I'd suggest you DON'T break or lose it. You see this here loose leaf of paper? The reason it ain't my stores ledger is because I keep that nice and safe like aboard ship, rather having to transcribe notes and such than risk losing that valuable piece of my professional kit. See where I'm coming from? Hmmm..."
'As the quarter master turns away with an intentional *hmphf*, Kestrell looks directly into the eyes of the dissaproving first mate E'strue who merely says,'
"It's always seemed to me that any handsome man of a certain height and status thinks that he can get away with most anythin' if'n he should just happen to smile and wink 'nough times. Of course, many of those types of men wind up either dead or forgotten in some dump somewhere... Useless sots, for the most part.
Daegrin, see that ye get those extra stores that we need and that have been approved ordered from Horgoth and delivered right quick, then get back here to supervise the loadin' of most of these boxes and crates... leavin' those designated by Mr. Virt there fer our light fingered friends..."
'Without another word, the first mate strides back up the gangplank, calling out for Bosun Drannick as she goes. Daegrin for his part looks at Vaken and then the rest of you with a smile, sucks in a lungful of fresh salt air, and then begins walking South along the wharf.'
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
'Sure enough, Kay's eyes grow wide with surprise and her face is scarlet. She quickly turns to Vaken to talk to anyone about a different subject. "That's unfortunate, Chef. Would y'like me t'ask after yer wages with Virgel?"
~♡~
'Before moving away to take his place as part of the ships mage's trap and barely noticing Kay's elbow to his hip, Druhut gives the smaller woman another quite frightening smile and spares a nod for A'ro.'
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
'Daegrin, hearing Vaken's somewhat dispirited words, turns to notice the group of figures looking uncertainly at each other, before the oft-moody halfling says with a smile at the big cook,'
"Well, of course you don't have to accompany me to Horgoth's, Vaken. It ain't an order as such, and you do look like you've something pressing that you wish to do with these others first. I just thought that if you were in town for the morning that you could ask the man yourself about those maces and sages that you mentioned yesterday.
Tell you what, I'll order the salt and pepper we discussed along with the rest of the stores, and ask about the rest of them herbs and spices you mentioned, and the milk of course, but if you're down near the South end of the wharf, you drop on in to Horgoth's Stores and Salvage yourself to make enquiries, eh? Can't get no fairer than that, right?"
'Nodding his small bulbous nosed and bespectacled face at you all, Daegrin turns and heads towards the Southern part of the wharf.'
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
First pencil draft of the town of Rumbottom:

D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
A’ro just gave her a smile as he watched her turn scarlet – it was his little victory over the conversation for now. As Druhut nodded he just exchanged it, looking back to the group.
As Vaken exchanged words about trying to get spices with Daegrin he just quieted down listening. He waited until a decision was made by the man before looking at the group “So what shall we do first?”
Campaigns:
Wildemount: The Felderwin Irregulars (2020) - Balassar Silverstone - Dragonborn Fighter (Rune Knight) Lv. 5 | Rise of TIamat - Aiwin Aralana - Wood Elf Fighter/Ranger (Arcane Archer/Gloom Stalker) Lv. 9
Vaken paused, unsure if this was a trap or not, searched for the correct answer that wouldn't offend the quartermaster, "Forgive me if I sounded as though I didn't wish to go. Second day on the ship and I'm feeling a bit overwhelmed with all the things that need to get done today. But I'll do as you suggest and go to Horgoth's later on, after I check a few items off today's to-do list."
"As long as visiting the Pirate is on the list, it doesn't matter to me what order we do it all in."
Campaigns:
DM - Waterdeep Dragon Heist PbP
"To the Apothecary then! Let's pick up the Captain's package posthaste! After that we can complete our errands around town and maybe find another sailor or two to round out the crew!"
'Heading East along Dock Street, one of the town's four major roads, the party swings right at a large dilapidated house of old build and design. Avoiding the nearby Town Square, the group instead heads South down River Road, towards the not-too-distant South Gate. Street traffic is still light on account of the early hour, though a few more of the town's hardy men and woman are now beginning to emerge to go about their day's business. The salty on-shore winds are somewhat diffused here by the town's buildings, though as you all near the palisade and still-closed gate you can all see the distant tree tops beyond the rough wooden-stake walls blowing about in the stiff sea-side breeze.
As you all approach the gate, you can see three Wardens, including the young watchwoman Beatrice and a tall middle-aged guard with black/grey straight shoulder length hair and a scraggly beard. The other two wardens are beginning to open the gate, while you all hear the bearded man's *booming* laugh carry up the street as you approach,'
"HA! Come on Beatrice, put your back in to it, lass. You as well, Tarpin! Warden's shouldn't be accussed of holdin' up the good honest folk of Rumbottom, or those who might wish to visit our lovely little town. You two rolled lowest, so that means you're on openin' and closin' duties today while I gets to play senior watch warden for the day. Ahh, love me some dice, I surely do. Hahaha!"
'As the gate swings open, the Warden apparently named Tarpin glumly goes and leans on a spear on the gate's right-side, while Beatrice does likewise on the left. Noticing your approach, the loud mouthed bearded man standing beside the road calls out,'
"Hail good travellers. Garet's me name and watchin's me game! Headin' out for the mornin' or day, are we? Or travellin' further perhaps?
[OOC] Everyone may make perception checks and look at the relevant spoilers:
DC 10:
'The Warden Garet is making no move to block the now open gate. The man is standing casually, hands upon his leather armour clad hips, shortsword and handaxe upon his belt. Less than ten feet to the right of the gates, you can see the long, solid Warden's Lodge building running East along a short road. A couple of windows are open and about sixty feet away, an unfamiliar Warden is standing by the buildings closed front door.'
DC 15:
'A weathered and battered table sits against the palisade nearby, an old tin cup and some six-sided dice scattered across its top. Despite his casual tone and manner, Warden Garet is studying you all quite intently, apparently hoping for a response. Approximately sixty feet beyond the now open gates, you can see the South Road crosses an old stone bridge which arcs over and above the narrow but fast flowing Saltware River.'
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
"Hail Garet! I’m A’ro and being blue is my game. Beautiful day to just going for a stroll, down the road be back in time for lunch, hopefully if we don’t get caught up in just enjoying the day. You three fine gate watchers going to be watching this fine gate all day?” A’ro just looks at the man keeping a smile as they walk his hand just giving a casual wave, when his words hit fine gate watcher he gives a quick wink over to Beatrice and then looks back to Garet.
Campaigns:
Wildemount: The Felderwin Irregulars (2020) - Balassar Silverstone - Dragonborn Fighter (Rune Knight) Lv. 5 | Rise of TIamat - Aiwin Aralana - Wood Elf Fighter/Ranger (Arcane Archer/Gloom Stalker) Lv. 9
'Beatrice smiles somewhat guardedly at A'ro, despite the woman's size and obvious strength, while Garet laughs loudly and gestures through the open gate in a courtly-like fashion, saying,'
"Nice to meet you, A'ro of the Blue Game! The day sure looks to be a beaut and worth the enjoyin', no doubt. We'll be here till later this afternoon, so mayhap we'll see you and your interesting lookin' friends again on your way back. Farewell out there!"
'Neither Garet nor the other Wardens do anything to impede your travel to and through the South Gate.'
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
'Kestrell nods to the Wardens on their way through the gate, with an extra long gaze and a wink at Beatrice.'
"We will see you all in a few hours, I imagine."
'Crossing the old stone bridge over Saltware River, your party moves beyond the immediate surrounds of Rumbottom town, following River Road up into the gentle rises of the burgeoning hills South of the harbour. The well-worn larger road soon splits however, continuing ever Southwards while a smaller goat track branches off on a slight incline angled up towards the distant copse covered bluffs. Taking the smaller path, the party's trek for the first hour is a pleasant one, with green somewhat rocky pastures stretching out to the coast's edge and away South to thicker forests and riverlands barely visible upon the distant horizon.
After another hour of hiking, the terrain becomes a little rougher, as the incline steepens and the thickets of trees and large rocky outcroppings become more frequent. Cresting a ragged rise that runs in Southwesterly-Northeasterly line across this rugged countryside, you all catch sight of larger, denser woods ahead that appear to run the length of this section of bluffs. With little choice but to follow what is little more than meandering two-foot wide goat-track now, your party passes beneath the overhead canopy and into the shade and shadows of the trees.
The sounds of insect and wildlife is thick beneath the canopy, almost as thick as the lush emerald foliage hanging from the broad branches of the often giant and ancient trees here. The path ahead, such as it is, tends to dissapear at times, falling away into small creeks or beneath tangled tree roots. Ocassionally, the sounds of larger wildlife can be heard moving through the woods, whether boars, stags or more predatory creatures, you cannot easily tell. Almost an hour into the woods, the lack of a discernable trail forces you to stop within a small tree-ringed clearing, beside a tranquil though algae coated pond. You have been travelling in a mostly South-Westerly direction, but now that avenue is blocked by thick impenetrable undergrowth and the insect-rich pond itself.
Short of heading back the way you came, the only possible directions for travel appear to be directly West through thick curtains of thorn covered leaf and vines that rise away in a slight incline, or South across rocky ground that appears to dip away into a mass of narrow rock and branch choked gullies and crevices. Neither direction looks promising or easy to traverse.'
[OOC] You may all make either perception, survival or nature checks (make one of these, not all) and read the spoiler if you get a score of 15 or higher.
'The rocky ground to the South looks slippery and trecherous, the narrow defiles a likely place to twist ankles or break legs. On many of the broken and rotted stumps strewn in that direction, you see thin spider web coating, even catching a glimpse of one far above the ground, twenty feet or more up in the higher branches overhead.
The thorns amidst the thick foliage look nasty, easily large enough to tear armour... or flesh. You also spot beautiful purple and red blooms growing admist the tangled curtains of flora. The slight incline to the West should, you would imagine, lead upwards towards the line of bluffs and cliffs that overlook the sea to the West and Rumbottom Harbour to the North East.'
D&D is a game, but it's not just a game. It's the ultimate storyboard, a campfire to share with friends, an imaginary call to imaginary arms and a ship to sail to horizons yet undreamt of...
DM Trevails Upon the Trackless Sea
'Kestrell looks around in confusion.'
"Did we take a wrong turn somewhere? Why would the Apothecary not have a path to their place of business?"
Nodding in agreement with Kestrell, "It does seem a mite bit odd. I vote we go West, though."
Campaigns:
DM - Waterdeep Dragon Heist PbP