I listen intently to Boosey‘s, Funderburk‘s and Sthara’s. „I’ve heard of all kind of curses, some real, some yarn from old and crazed sailors. But this is unique. From your story I can tell you wish to investigate this matter. Maybe we can discuss this with Zindar and the Flaming Fist. They have a proposal to hunt pirates for a really hefty reward. This quest will take us to Fort Beluarian, where Boosey wants to meet an acquaintance. And having the de facto military force of this place as partners would be highly beneficial.“
The meal provided later that evening isn't anything special, but it is tasty. The soldiers and harbormaster present leave important matters out of any banter until after most of everyone is finished eating. All but the amber-colored tej, a fermented drink made from honey, is cleared from the table when Horace walks over to a nearby cabinet and returns with a scroll case. From the scroll case he produces a map, which he lays out on the table. After clearing his throat he begins, "Chult is difficult to map. Its mountains, valleys and dense jungle make it nearly impossible to navigate unless you're trained in the that sort of thing; even the plants want to eat you in this place." It's subtle, but he touches a scar on his left forearm and continues, "That being said, many have mapped out the shoreline pretty well, and you are welcome to take this one with you." He gestures to the map in front of him and the harbormaster cuts in, "Maybe this is obvious, but once you arrive in Fort Beluarian, you mat not want to reveal that any of you are there at our behest. I've been thinking about what you said" - he casually motions to Allister - "about some corruption in the officials there-"
Captain Horace slams a fist down on the table interrupting the dragonborn. A nearby soldier jumps at the outburst, having been in his own side conversation quietly with a fellow Fist. Horace follows his action with, "How can you even propose that? Not one of us is stupid enough to align ourselves with pirates! I am proud to be a part of the Flaming Fist because of its good standing reputation and partial freedom. Don't soil that with your accusations." Zindar shakes his head at this last bit and it seems that the two silently agree to disagree about the matter. Zindar decides to move past it and asks the party as a collective whole, "Horace wasn't wrong when he said the jungle was difficult to navigate. You may want to hire an experienced guide, though most require some fee up front. If that interests you, you can probably find one in or around the Sad Pony." He chuckles and says, "Look at me rambling. Did you have any further questions for either of us?"
Taking a look around the market thinking about survival, you come to this conclusion: With this heat, you know that you will all be drinking a great deal of water throughout your journey. Also, there were a few merchants selling an insect repellent salve which you suspect might be useful, though you've not seen just how much yet.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Throughout the meal Boosey has been joining in the banter, telling the odd anecdote and story in an attempt to engage and entertain the party.
Performance check 7
He listens carefully to Horace, nodding as he speaks. Once Zindar has opened the table for questions he says, "My path leads me to Fort Beluarian, and at the moment that seems to be my most sensible course of action. I wasn't expecting to engage in pirate hunting when I came here," and he shoots Allister a crooked grin, "but I can go along with it, for now. I've no love for them after our voyage, and I think it would be to everyone's benefit if they had their claws clipped for a while."
"This curse isn't going anywhere, and as long as none of us are careless enough to get ourselves killed", he lets that hang in the air for a moment, "we should have time to deal with it, in due course."
@DM
I'd like to make an insight check to see if Horace and Zindar are trustworthy 6
"I trust my friends here implicitly, even if Allister has a...dubious background," and he gives both Horace and Zindar a long speculative look. "However, am I able to trust you gentlemen? In my experience, officialdom can tend to be somewhat unreliable with sensitive information."
During the meal I stay away from any alcohol (if present) but eat voraciously whatever meat is on the table, accompanied by an occasional belch. He enjoys the laid-back conversation and listens to Boosey´s anecdotes without telling too much himself. After Zindar´s and Horace´s exchange his mood changes visibly, and he speaks even less after Boosey´s reference to his past. Finally he stands up, cleans his hands on his pants and puts them on the table.
"Let me get two things straight before we continue." I look at Horace "First of all, nobody insinuated voluntary corruption amongst the Flaming Fist, Captain Horace. Infiltration can happen even among the most honorable troops, be it by mundane or arcane means. Don´t act like you´ve never employed spies or diviners to get intelligence on your enemies. Then I turn to my companions. "Second, I was no pirate out of my own free will. When I was fourteen my family had to flee Baldur´s Gate towards Neverwinter because I got involved with the wrong people. The ship went through a storm, I went overboard and was rescued by Worlo and the Murderous Mermaid. In exchange for my life I had to serve a cabin boy, until they forced me to kill a captive when I was eighteen years old. After that raiding and killing were part of a life I had never chosen, but I had to adept to survive. So, whether you still trust me or not is up to you. I´ll have my revenge on this pirate scum, whatever it takes. If you want to help me, I´m grateful. If not, I´ll do it myself." Adressing the whole room "Now, if we travel to Fort Beluarian, we need some gold up front to buy provisions, gear appropriate for this climate and to hire a guide. And as much information about the important people in the fort." He sits back on his chair, grabs whatever alcohlic drink he can reach and empties it in one gulp.
Funderburk looked over the map, "I think it may be best my companions if I take the map. Each of you have your own individual task unlike I; I am also able to go with anyone. On the plus side I am proficient with them, knowing who to work through them." He looked at his friends each eating in their own style.
He ate modestly, never touching the alcohol, but drinking sips of water and a plate of food. His back was perfectly straight, creases out of his new cloak he had bought. "I do believe too that if we head towards the fort and to the merchant princes we would possibly get more information, and more supplies. It really depends on the demands. We don't know how many others are along this quest like ourselves- and if they too are allied or not." He got up from his seat. He did not talk to the captain to get to know him any further, if his friends trusted him then he would trust his friends. He left to get to the front bow of the ship wanting some cool air.
With the map in hand he decides to look over it for any possible routes to cross through once it is just himself and his friends along their journey.
"Allister, calm your storm my friend," I say after the fighters outburst. "Be assured, if I did not trust you and your judgement, I would not be sat here at this table. I will aid you with your search with my life, have no fear about that. However I would have certain assurances if we are to ally ourselves with the Flaming Fist."
Giving a moments thought, he continues, "I have more to say, as you probably have already guessed, but there are too many ears here for my liking," and he gestures to the other soldiers around the room. "Do not mistake me for some mundane story teller who likes to act the fool." He looks back at Horace and Zindar. "Well gentlemen, can I trust you?"
Boosey's storytelling is well received by everyone around the table, spreading laughter and excitement where it is appropriate. Once things settle back down after Allister's speech, Captain Horace stands and begins to walk around the table. As he walks he says, "Fort Beluarian's leadership changes semi-frequently due to the dangers that lie in wait in this peninsula. Commander Liara Portyr currently controls any and all operations the Flaming Fist have in Chult. She answers directly to Grand Duke Ulder Ravengard back in Baldur’s Gate, and she has a solid mind about her. Her judgments are dependable and she's a good commander. Besides that, there is Gruta Halsdottir; she's a castellan, which puts her rank directly below Liara. As far as I know, there are no other high ranking officials that report there at this time." By this time he's reached Allister and reaches out to clasp the fighter's forearm. //Like shaking hands, not grabbing his arm\\ He says in a sincere, low voice, "I hope you find what you are looking for. Don't lose yourself along the way," and then he makes his exit, heading down the hall leading further into the ship.
The dragonborn shoots Allister a question and then answers Boosey's hanging question after the captain departs, "How much up front compensation did you have in mind? 250 gold?Trust is a fickle thing. I hope that you can one day, but that's something to be earned, is it not?" He then says incredulously, "Now, what's this other business? You few are also looking into the Death Curse!?"
Boosey:
Horace and Zindar seem sincere in this task, but you've only just met them and they are hard to read any sort of underlying motives, if there are any to be had.
Funderburk quickly notices one thing about the map: there are no roads. Is this a mistake? Ruin, ruin, and more ruins...This ought to be an interesting journey that is sure to fill one, if not two books.
„We don’t need gold if you or the Fist can supply us with the necessary equipment. As foreigners we are easy prey for the local merchants, they’d probably charge extra and pat themselves on the back for their cunning. We need food and water, some of this insect repellent, a pack mount et cetera. Just basic jungle of Chult survival stuff. And I need new armor. In this heat my plate ist as useless as nipples on a Lacedon. If anyone has any additions to make feel free to speak.“ Allister looks at Boosey, giving him the same look Boosey gave him two minutes ago. Suddenly his face lights up, he looks back at Zindar and says „And maybe some information about this mysterious merchant prince, maybe we can empty his pockets instead of yours.“
Boosey silently raises his glass to the friendly punch in the arm by Allister. As Captain Horace leaves his eyes follow him with a curious expression. As he's addressed by Zindar he gives an incredulous laugh. "I sometimes think I should be a follower of Tymora. Your Captain Horace there has just unwittingly given me my answer. Liara Portyr is my contact in Fort Beluarian and I hope to have a meeting with her once we arrive." He turns to Allister, "While I trust that Liara is dependable, there may still be questions about her subordinates. Caution around others would be well advised."
For a moment he looks into his cup and swirls the liquid round thoughtfully. "You would learn eventually one way or another as Liara is expecting me, so I believe now is the time to let you know of my purpose here." Looking round the assembled party he continues. "I have been sent here as an agent of the Lords Alliance to investigate this "death curse". There is much concern amongst the leaders of the Sword Coast that this could cause untold panic in our cities. The news that it is already in Baldurs Gate is of great concern. While my mission was supposedly to be fact finding only, I find myself in a position in which I believe we have a chance to put a stop to it. In fact it would be a dereliction of my duty if I didn't pursue this."
He takes a long swig from the cup then carries on. "The matter of the pirates. They are a constant menace to our shipping and have been a concern to the Lords Alliance for many years now. As I'm here in Chult," and he shrugs, "Two birds with one stone as the saying goes. In the meantime, I would prefer to remain the foolish gnome. I find it can be quite useful, some of the time."
"And, after all we've been through, I don't think I could ask for a better group to be associated with," and with that he raises his glass to each adventurer in turn.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
17 Zindar spouts out a few indeterminate bit of what might have been the start of a reply to Sthara. He thinks for a long moment to himself running his held along his chin, looking to each of the adventuring band in front of him, lingering on Sthara. He then paces back in forth, looking like he is lost in his own contemplation for a moment before saying, "The merchant princes are tricky to deal with. If I have your word that you will do as you say, then I will outfit the lot of you with enough gear to survive in the jungle - this would not include a pack animal, as I do not have one and I'm not on good terms with the merchant prince, Ifan, who sells them. Your guide..." He thinks this over for a moment before adding, "The merchant prince Jobal deals in guides and sellswords. It is possible you could talk to him to strike some sort of deal with him, but that would not be an easy task. He is not a kind man, nor has he been known to be very generous. I guess there's no harm in speaking with him though. The merchant princes are no stranger to work and can frequently be found in one of their shops or street stands when they are not in their respective villas." Zindar finishes with a long sip of his tej that empties the cup. With a few words in a draconic and look to Sthara, he refills his cup and offers her the decanter.
It may be some time before you return to the city. Another glass?
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
As the others speak of their motivations, Sthara looks over the map that they've been provided. Her finger traces a line from Port Nyanzaru to Mezro and then drifts across the empty space in the middle of the landmass. She ponders whether or not she's traveled through any time before she'd been saved.
"I am in agreement with Zindar–if we are to venture into the jungle, we must be cautious. It is far too difficult to navigate. We might have more luck if we find someone with a small boat to take us down one of the two rivers," she says, pointing to the both of them on the map.
Nearer to the end of the meal, Sthara has enjoyed a large share of tej and begins to feel the honey-wine's warmth in her cheeks. She pulls her blouse collar slightly wider to let the heat escape and gazes at Zindar as he and Allister speak about compensation and preparation. She speaks to the dragonborn in Draconic, with a noticeable hiss-like pronunciation as her first language bubbles to the surface.
Come now, Golden-One. I'm sure that you could do well by us for this journey without worry. After all, you did seem to take an interest in us – or was it just me? (Persuasion: 23 if needed)
Funderburk smiled at the thought of making sequels to his books of adventures. He looked back from the prow of the ship, noticing people at work and others talking. He decided that since he was not in the mood to go back inside, wanting some more fresh air in his lungs, he decided to ask one of the sailors if he wanted or needed help. He wasn't looking for a reward, but just something to keep him busy and from him getting his spirits too high. "May I be of service?" He asked to any of the workers. "I am not looking for payment, just something to keep my mind and body at ease," he said the last part with a chuckle.
Captain Horace returns through the same hallway he went and bids everyone a good evening. He also wishes everyone a safe journey and a quick return before heading out. The sailor politely declines Funderburk's proposal telling him that it was mostly busy work to pass the time. He does make small talk for as long as Funderburk lets him.
I listen intently to Boosey‘s, Funderburk‘s and Sthara’s. „I’ve heard of all kind of curses, some real, some yarn from old and crazed sailors. But this is unique. From your story I can tell you wish to investigate this matter. Maybe we can discuss this with Zindar and the Flaming Fist. They have a proposal to hunt pirates for a really hefty reward. This quest will take us to Fort Beluarian, where Boosey wants to meet an acquaintance. And having the de facto military force of this place as partners would be highly beneficial.“
The meal provided later that evening isn't anything special, but it is tasty. The soldiers and harbormaster present leave important matters out of any banter until after most of everyone is finished eating. All but the amber-colored tej, a fermented drink made from honey, is cleared from the table when Horace walks over to a nearby cabinet and returns with a scroll case. From the scroll case he produces a map, which he lays out on the table. After clearing his throat he begins, "Chult is difficult to map. Its mountains, valleys and dense jungle make it nearly impossible to navigate unless you're trained in the that sort of thing; even the plants want to eat you in this place." It's subtle, but he touches a scar on his left forearm and continues, "That being said, many have mapped out the shoreline pretty well, and you are welcome to take this one with you." He gestures to the map in front of him and the harbormaster cuts in, "Maybe this is obvious, but once you arrive in Fort Beluarian, you mat not want to reveal that any of you are there at our behest. I've been thinking about what you said" - he casually motions to Allister - "about some corruption in the officials there-"
Captain Horace slams a fist down on the table interrupting the dragonborn. A nearby soldier jumps at the outburst, having been in his own side conversation quietly with a fellow Fist. Horace follows his action with, "How can you even propose that? Not one of us is stupid enough to align ourselves with pirates! I am proud to be a part of the Flaming Fist because of its good standing reputation and partial freedom. Don't soil that with your accusations." Zindar shakes his head at this last bit and it seems that the two silently agree to disagree about the matter. Zindar decides to move past it and asks the party as a collective whole, "Horace wasn't wrong when he said the jungle was difficult to navigate. You may want to hire an experienced guide, though most require some fee up front. If that interests you, you can probably find one in or around the Sad Pony." He chuckles and says, "Look at me rambling. Did you have any further questions for either of us?"
Allister:
Taking a look around the market thinking about survival, you come to this conclusion: With this heat, you know that you will all be drinking a great deal of water throughout your journey. Also, there were a few merchants selling an insect repellent salve which you suspect might be useful, though you've not seen just how much yet.
Ooc: how do goodberrys work. Can I keep us watered with those
//No. That spell is intended to replace food, so that's half the battle won.\\
Throughout the meal Boosey has been joining in the banter, telling the odd anecdote and story in an attempt to engage and entertain the party.
Performance check 7
He listens carefully to Horace, nodding as he speaks. Once Zindar has opened the table for questions he says, "My path leads me to Fort Beluarian, and at the moment that seems to be my most sensible course of action. I wasn't expecting to engage in pirate hunting when I came here," and he shoots Allister a crooked grin, "but I can go along with it, for now. I've no love for them after our voyage, and I think it would be to everyone's benefit if they had their claws clipped for a while."
"This curse isn't going anywhere, and as long as none of us are careless enough to get ourselves killed", he lets that hang in the air for a moment, "we should have time to deal with it, in due course."
@DM
I'd like to make an insight check to see if Horace and Zindar are trustworthy 6
"I trust my friends here implicitly, even if Allister has a...dubious background," and he gives both Horace and Zindar a long speculative look. "However, am I able to trust you gentlemen? In my experience, officialdom can tend to be somewhat unreliable with sensitive information."
During the meal I stay away from any alcohol (if present) but eat voraciously whatever meat is on the table, accompanied by an occasional belch. He enjoys the laid-back conversation and listens to Boosey´s anecdotes without telling too much himself. After Zindar´s and Horace´s exchange his mood changes visibly, and he speaks even less after Boosey´s reference to his past. Finally he stands up, cleans his hands on his pants and puts them on the table.
"Let me get two things straight before we continue." I look at Horace "First of all, nobody insinuated voluntary corruption amongst the Flaming Fist, Captain Horace. Infiltration can happen even among the most honorable troops, be it by mundane or arcane means. Don´t act like you´ve never employed spies or diviners to get intelligence on your enemies. Then I turn to my companions. "Second, I was no pirate out of my own free will. When I was fourteen my family had to flee Baldur´s Gate towards Neverwinter because I got involved with the wrong people. The ship went through a storm, I went overboard and was rescued by Worlo and the Murderous Mermaid. In exchange for my life I had to serve a cabin boy, until they forced me to kill a captive when I was eighteen years old. After that raiding and killing were part of a life I had never chosen, but I had to adept to survive. So, whether you still trust me or not is up to you. I´ll have my revenge on this pirate scum, whatever it takes. If you want to help me, I´m grateful. If not, I´ll do it myself." Adressing the whole room "Now, if we travel to Fort Beluarian, we need some gold up front to buy provisions, gear appropriate for this climate and to hire a guide. And as much information about the important people in the fort." He sits back on his chair, grabs whatever alcohlic drink he can reach and empties it in one gulp.
Funderburk looked over the map, "I think it may be best my companions if I take the map. Each of you have your own individual task unlike I; I am also able to go with anyone. On the plus side I am proficient with them, knowing who to work through them." He looked at his friends each eating in their own style.
He ate modestly, never touching the alcohol, but drinking sips of water and a plate of food. His back was perfectly straight, creases out of his new cloak he had bought. "I do believe too that if we head towards the fort and to the merchant princes we would possibly get more information, and more supplies. It really depends on the demands. We don't know how many others are along this quest like ourselves- and if they too are allied or not." He got up from his seat. He did not talk to the captain to get to know him any further, if his friends trusted him then he would trust his friends. He left to get to the front bow of the ship wanting some cool air.
With the map in hand he decides to look over it for any possible routes to cross through once it is just himself and his friends along their journey.
Made you look.
"Allister, calm your storm my friend," I say after the fighters outburst. "Be assured, if I did not trust you and your judgement, I would not be sat here at this table. I will aid you with your search with my life, have no fear about that. However I would have certain assurances if we are to ally ourselves with the Flaming Fist."
Giving a moments thought, he continues, "I have more to say, as you probably have already guessed, but there are too many ears here for my liking," and he gestures to the other soldiers around the room. "Do not mistake me for some mundane story teller who likes to act the fool." He looks back at Horace and Zindar. "Well gentlemen, can I trust you?"
Allister takes a deep breath, grabs another drink and punches Boosey lightly on the arm. „No hard feelings.“
Funderburk hears the out burst from outside, taking note that at some point he might have to go back inside and see what is going on,
He continues looking through the map, once more looking for any routes.
Do I roll to see if I find any? And if so what do I roll? Do I roll for my navigation, insight, investigation?
Made you look.
Boosey's storytelling is well received by everyone around the table, spreading laughter and excitement where it is appropriate. Once things settle back down after Allister's speech, Captain Horace stands and begins to walk around the table. As he walks he says, "Fort Beluarian's leadership changes semi-frequently due to the dangers that lie in wait in this peninsula. Commander Liara Portyr currently controls any and all operations the Flaming Fist have in Chult. She answers directly to Grand Duke Ulder Ravengard back in Baldur’s Gate, and she has a solid mind about her. Her judgments are dependable and she's a good commander. Besides that, there is Gruta Halsdottir; she's a castellan, which puts her rank directly below Liara. As far as I know, there are no other high ranking officials that report there at this time." By this time he's reached Allister and reaches out to clasp the fighter's forearm. //Like shaking hands, not grabbing his arm\\ He says in a sincere, low voice, "I hope you find what you are looking for. Don't lose yourself along the way," and then he makes his exit, heading down the hall leading further into the ship.
The dragonborn shoots Allister a question and then answers Boosey's hanging question after the captain departs, "How much up front compensation did you have in mind? 250 gold?Trust is a fickle thing. I hope that you can one day, but that's something to be earned, is it not?" He then says incredulously, "Now, what's this other business? You few are also looking into the Death Curse!?"
Boosey:
Horace and Zindar seem sincere in this task, but you've only just met them and they are hard to read any sort of underlying motives, if there are any to be had.
Funderburk quickly notices one thing about the map: there are no roads. Is this a mistake? Ruin, ruin, and more ruins...This ought to be an interesting journey that is sure to fill one, if not two books.
„We don’t need gold if you or the Fist can supply us with the necessary equipment. As foreigners we are easy prey for the local merchants, they’d probably charge extra and pat themselves on the back for their cunning. We need food and water, some of this insect repellent, a pack mount et cetera. Just basic jungle of Chult survival stuff. And I need new armor. In this heat my plate ist as useless as nipples on a Lacedon. If anyone has any additions to make feel free to speak.“ Allister looks at Boosey, giving him the same look Boosey gave him two minutes ago. Suddenly his face lights up, he looks back at Zindar and says „And maybe some information about this mysterious merchant prince, maybe we can empty his pockets instead of yours.“
Boosey silently raises his glass to the friendly punch in the arm by Allister. As Captain Horace leaves his eyes follow him with a curious expression. As he's addressed by Zindar he gives an incredulous laugh. "I sometimes think I should be a follower of Tymora. Your Captain Horace there has just unwittingly given me my answer. Liara Portyr is my contact in Fort Beluarian and I hope to have a meeting with her once we arrive." He turns to Allister, "While I trust that Liara is dependable, there may still be questions about her subordinates. Caution around others would be well advised."
For a moment he looks into his cup and swirls the liquid round thoughtfully. "You would learn eventually one way or another as Liara is expecting me, so I believe now is the time to let you know of my purpose here." Looking round the assembled party he continues. "I have been sent here as an agent of the Lords Alliance to investigate this "death curse". There is much concern amongst the leaders of the Sword Coast that this could cause untold panic in our cities. The news that it is already in Baldurs Gate is of great concern. While my mission was supposedly to be fact finding only, I find myself in a position in which I believe we have a chance to put a stop to it. In fact it would be a dereliction of my duty if I didn't pursue this."
He takes a long swig from the cup then carries on. "The matter of the pirates. They are a constant menace to our shipping and have been a concern to the Lords Alliance for many years now. As I'm here in Chult," and he shrugs, "Two birds with one stone as the saying goes. In the meantime, I would prefer to remain the foolish gnome. I find it can be quite useful, some of the time."
"And, after all we've been through, I don't think I could ask for a better group to be associated with," and with that he raises his glass to each adventurer in turn.
17 Zindar spouts out a few indeterminate bit of what might have been the start of a reply to Sthara. He thinks for a long moment to himself running his held along his chin, looking to each of the adventuring band in front of him, lingering on Sthara. He then paces back in forth, looking like he is lost in his own contemplation for a moment before saying, "The merchant princes are tricky to deal with. If I have your word that you will do as you say, then I will outfit the lot of you with enough gear to survive in the jungle - this would not include a pack animal, as I do not have one and I'm not on good terms with the merchant prince, Ifan, who sells them. Your guide..." He thinks this over for a moment before adding, "The merchant prince Jobal deals in guides and sellswords. It is possible you could talk to him to strike some sort of deal with him, but that would not be an easy task. He is not a kind man, nor has he been known to be very generous. I guess there's no harm in speaking with him though. The merchant princes are no stranger to work and can frequently be found in one of their shops or street stands when they are not in their respective villas." Zindar finishes with a long sip of his tej that empties the cup. With a few words in a draconic and look to Sthara, he refills his cup and offers her the decanter.
It may be some time before you return to the city. Another glass?
As the others speak of their motivations, Sthara looks over the map that they've been provided. Her finger traces a line from Port Nyanzaru to Mezro and then drifts across the empty space in the middle of the landmass. She ponders whether or not she's traveled through any time before she'd been saved.
"I am in agreement with Zindar–if we are to venture into the jungle, we must be cautious. It is far too difficult to navigate. We might have more luck if we find someone with a small boat to take us down one of the two rivers," she says, pointing to the both of them on the map.
Nearer to the end of the meal, Sthara has enjoyed a large share of tej and begins to feel the honey-wine's warmth in her cheeks. She pulls her blouse collar slightly wider to let the heat escape and gazes at Zindar as he and Allister speak about compensation and preparation. She speaks to the dragonborn in Draconic, with a noticeable hiss-like pronunciation as her first language bubbles to the surface.
Come now, Golden-One. I'm sure that you could do well by us for this journey without worry. After all, you did seem to take an interest in us – or was it just me? (Persuasion: 23 if needed)
Funderburk smiled at the thought of making sequels to his books of adventures. He looked back from the prow of the ship, noticing people at work and others talking. He decided that since he was not in the mood to go back inside, wanting some more fresh air in his lungs, he decided to ask one of the sailors if he wanted or needed help. He wasn't looking for a reward, but just something to keep him busy and from him getting his spirits too high. "May I be of service?" He asked to any of the workers. "I am not looking for payment, just something to keep my mind and body at ease," he said the last part with a chuckle.
Made you look.
Captain Horace returns through the same hallway he went and bids everyone a good evening. He also wishes everyone a safe journey and a quick return before heading out. The sailor politely declines Funderburk's proposal telling him that it was mostly busy work to pass the time. He does make small talk for as long as Funderburk lets him.