With Hawke's eye, they had been able to find clothes Ebele described, clean and in her size to boot! Unsupervised though, her blouse ended up inside out with a button misaligned. Maybe the look would work for the blindfolded monk? But hearing those impressions.... Hopefully none of the cultists try speaking with her.
Investigation:13 On Success: You find something in your size to dress yourself up. +Advantage on CHA rolls against cultists with your disguise Success!
Performance/Deception: 8 DC 10: Well done! Nothing's on inside out or backwards. Failed!
Kerric says, "Thank you, Ebele. Wake me when it is my turn to watch." Ebele would offer a warm smile and a nod in agreement. "Focus on rest, so you can be at your best." Her head would quirk slightly as if she winked.
"I, uh, I do, yeah, sorta... I mean, I'm... I'm lookin' for her. That's kinda why I'm with this bunch..." He glances over towards the others."Erm... Why... why ya askin'?" "Hmm. So ya do." Mort would relax half an inch of space from you, Hawke. "And ya are eh?" Brows pop to bug his eyes out more, still unblinking. They'd finally move, only to look you up and down. He'd nonchalantly tour around you, studying you with a tilting head. "E.E. send you? Hmm?" The druid would sniff you curiously, looking for confirmation. His eyes would then dart to look at your group of friends before looking back at you. Mort was closer again. It was as if he were looking deep into your soul, testing your resolve. After an uncomfortably long moment, slowly, finally, but not at the same time, his eyelids would blink. "I'll be back." He'd step away.
The bulk of the boats prep work was already done by the cultists. But it still took some some time to complete a comprehensive safety checklist fit for T'chal'fronack'zcinicker's approval. Eventually everyone was outfitted, those designated for rest were settled in and already well on their way with some sleep. The boat was finally ready to set sail and conveniently, Mort had finished delegating his work.
The Mortician would do his signature hop skip back over. "I'd like to give ya a hand." He'd reach a closed fist out to fist bump. With or without reciprocation, he'd pump his arm up into the air with enthusiasm before spreading his fingers as wide as the grin that soon grew on his face. "Huzzah!" Mort would release a whole waft of pollen, sprinkling it to the wind. It'd spread and expand, washing over the boat. Then with an lopsided bounce, he'd hand spring forward towards the edge, tossing himself into the air. "Boop!" The druid would click his heels together. With a poof and a plop, he'd disappear into the water.
Mindful of Mort
Hawke if you connect mentally with Mort: Teresiel was chosen among many others to be a part of the diplomatic delegation to Mirabar. Communicating with Mort in this manner revealed a sound mind of great wisdom. The Emerald Enclave is investigating into her disappearance and the pouch of magical seeds she was transporting. His responses were sincere and direct. Evidence, and lack there of, points to her being captured and transported. I believe you and your friends are on the right track. Save her...
After some really long awkward silence, Ebele would clear her throat and she'd set off as per Hawke's initial navigation instructions. She was all ears for the world and help around her. It was almost as if the monk felt into a comfortable trance, as if she was at ease from all their preparation. There was this sense of confidence and air of safety, like they were being guided along this night.
Shifts changed and night would become morning. Those awake to see it, are graced with the much anticipated view of the keep.
Long Rest! (Smash that long rest button! Time to wake and bake!)
Rivergard Keep
A small castle overlooks the mighty Dessarin River, which is a good half-mile wide at this point. A gatehouse and keep stand atop a low bluff, but the walls are built to the water’s edge. On the river bank, another low tower guards a boat basin where keelboats are moored.
The keep seems old and worn, but new timbers and shingles suggest that repairs are underway. A white banner with a blue gauntlet flies over the keep. The front gate is closed.
The keep’s eastern wall is built into the river, forming a long pier that encloses a boat basin. A heavy chain that emerges from the tower to the south stretches across the entrance.
Perception/Investigation (Here-ey! Here-ye!)
DC 15:
The heavy chain appears to be raised and lowered by the winch in the tower by the river. It provides Rivergard’s defenders with the ability to block boats from entering or leaving. Someone swimming could probably easily go over or under the chain — it impedes only boat traffic.
A male human with lank black hair looks out of the arrow slit in the tower by the river. He has a drooping mustache and a sour expression. “What do you want?” he asks.
Waking in the wee hours of the morning, Kerric takes his shift at watch -- and oars, if necessary -- then rests again until sunrise. Getting back into his armor and outfitting himself as befits the enforcer for an up-and-coming cultist leader, he prepares himself for the upcoming mission.
Investigation: 17
Hanging out and trying the quiet glower/Intimidation: 17
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
T'chal'fronack'zcinicker emerges from below as the question is shouted. He strolls...most river captainy like and shouts across, "New recruits for the crashing wave! Make sure ya have extra pens so they can get all the applications filled out with little delay! Uh...er....haha...ya matey!"
He turns and nods to Kerric and gives him a wink, sure he's sold the story.
The man squints, focus narrowing in on you from up high. The boat definitely looked familiar. Catching a good glimpse of the glowering enforcer he'd gulp. He'd hop to before the Captain started rambling on about pens. He hurried for the armoured man as if he had disrespected a commanding officer.
There was only really one available spot for the Argent Alliance Shoalar and his new cultists to park in the boat basin. The keelboat is ushers into its place against the inner side of the keep's east wall and a rope ladder would eventually be tossed down from the top of the wall to the deck of the boat.
Map You moved through (K11) and are now at (K12).
(Will pause here for other's to wake up/be woken up, prepare and join you on the deck for disembarking. Take your time.)
Satisfied that they have been granted admission, Kerric smiles at T'chal'fronack'zcinicker and says, "Where are the rest? Still getting their beauty sleep?" The warrior elf prepares to climb the rope ladder, but waits for his "captain" to give the word.
Looking at K13, is that another chain across a waterway entering a cave, or something else...Just what we could see looking at it from aboard the ship, as it is not clear from the top looking down.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
T'chal'fronack'zcinicker glances over at Kerric, "Well, to be honest, I slept pretty solidly through the whole ride. Very well, sleeping while in a boat was rather peaceful. It makes me wonder, perhaps people may enjoy sleeping on water. If only there was some way to make a bed out of water to sleep on, with waves. Perhaps we could get a big bag that could hold water, and then fill it, like a giant water skin, then sleep on that. I bet they'd be all the rage. I'm going to need to have you sign an NDA and non-compete agreement at this time, since this is my idea, though I do need investors and employees in case you're interested. Anyway, regarding the others, I really have no idea. I'm just chatting with you now about this dribble to make us seem normal while we wait for the others. Which makes my mind wander and think of strange things. For example, what came first, the color orange, or the fruit. Was some dude like, 'that thing is orange colored...lets call it an 'orange'..' or .... anyway....i think you get the idea."
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
There were only a few people Hawke would allow in his personal space and Mort definitely hadn't been one of them. The subject matter of their conversation was about the only thing keeping him from telling the guy to back up out of his face, though when the older druid began to circle around him, he relaxed just the tiniest bit. At least he wasn't staring directly at him anymore.
At the mention of the Emerald Enclave however, the kalashtar's eye follows Mort just before he got uncomfortably close again. "Just me. Not them." He corrects, in case the mortician was under the assumption all of them were with the E.E. Despite the discomfort, Hawke manages to keep eye contact with the man long enough until he took a step away. Doing what, he didn't know or care, as now he could finally take a deep breath without worry of catching the scent of something rancid.
Of course, it wouldn't last long, as Hawke could smell him from miles away, but at least this time he wasn't as shaken as he was before when he was approached. The druid quirked a brow at an attempted fist bump, suspicious at the intention, but slowly moves a closed fist towards the others, only for Mort to have moved onto pumping his fist in the air. Hawke watched with a quizzical expression on his visage as Mort would release a waft of pollen onto the ship (Arcana to maybe see if he could tell what spell was cast, if any? 12), then plop himself in the water.
Thankfully, the druid himself caught on and ensured to forge a mental link with the other, in case it was needed. After listening to the mental spiel, Hawke scans over the ship and says to himself, "Yeah, he really is one of those druids, ain't he?"With a sigh, the kalashtar moves onto the ship. We will save her, and I appreciate the help, Mort.
Hawke had accidentally slept in that night after his shift with Ebele, wanting to take another nap before they entered the keep. He was a lot more spent than he thought, but at least it made the time go by faster.
"Where are the rest? Still getting their beauty sleep?"
"Yes, actually," Hawke replies, popping up from out of no where, unravelling his hair from its braids that he had woven them into last night. "You think I look this immaculate by not sleepin' in? Tsk, tsk. Also orange, the fruit, came first."He throws in response to Snicker's ramblings. "I'll wake everyone else up. Gimme a sec." After ensuring his curls were nice and curly, Hawke moves to shake everyone that hadn't been up, awake. "Rise n' shine, sleep heads, we got a big day ahead of us. Hop to it!"
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\
T'chal'fronack'zcinicker shakes his head, "Well, if that's the case, then why aren't more colors named after fruit? Why isn't yellow actually banana. Or green or red could be apple...depending on the apple type of course."
Then he realizes he's getting too into the actual discussion and clears his throat and acts all 'captain-y'. "Yeah, rise and shine ya land-lubbers. Time to get a move on!"
He shrugs apologetically at Hawke.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
Kerric, carrying through your investigation as the boat pulled into place and prepared for disembarking, you got a good scan of the area across.
(K10 Landing) The keep’s eastern wall juts out into the river, forming a good-sized basin in which a couple of keelboats float. Keelboats full of loot and stolen goods off-load their cargo here. The boat tied up right next to the landing looks currently empty. The water in the boat basin appears to be about 15 feet deep, although it naturally shallows near the shore. A wide gap in the southeast wall provides access to the river, although it is blocked by a heavy chain. A twenty-foot tall bluff of rock and earth separates the landing and a nearby tower from the rest of the castle grounds. To the north, a wide stream flows out of a cave mouth into the boat basin. An iron grate blocks access to the stream.
(K13 The Dark Stream)The north side of the boat basin laps against a steep, rocky bluff. From the base of the bluff, a subterranean river empties into the boat basin. The river is close to thirty feet wide, and the cave ceiling is about six feet above the water level in the middle. The iron grate that blocks the mouth of the stream has a swinging gate section that's safe to assume would be secured by a simple lock. The stream you estimate is about 10 feet deep.
A groan comes from Ebele when the already coherent start trying to rouse her and the others. Normally she was one to be up early, bright eyed and bushy tailed, ready for the day. Today though, the monk was caught a little out of sorts from spending a double shift on a ship, blindfolded. Rising her head and torso from where it rested, the blonde was caught with some wild bedhead, her shirt lopsided and a dribble of drool. She'd wipe her mouth. Having heard some of the discussion before being encouraged out of bed, the halfelf would call out, "You're welcome!"
When she'd hear Hawke turn to step away, Ebele would grab hold of him, using his momentum to pull herself up onto his back so he could carry her out. "Would Blueberries, Blackberries, Grapefruit or Pomegranate count? Oh! Tangerine!? Mmm..." She'd hum a little before adding. "How about Cherry!" " Her stomach would respond to the thought of all the fruit. She'd then point ahead dramatically in a random direction. "To breakfast!" The monk would chuckle. At least she didn't call Hawke a peasant this time. "You're such a Peach." She'd rustle his beauty slept curls, grinning innocently before resting her chin on his head. "Ouu! That's one too!"
T'chal'fronack'zcinicker looks around, seeing everyone present, "Alright ya pirates, get a move on." He heads up the gangplank and walks to the left looking for the path towards the keep. He boldly walks forward as if he knows where he's going.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer? Class.
When he sees the snoozers rouse from their place, the druid begins to turn on his heel, replying to Xalkas with, "Best way to pass time is by gettin' some good ol' beauty sleep, Xal-- Whoop--" Though he ends up getting cut off by Ebele tugging him back a bit to clamber on his back.
"I oughta charge you for these piggy back rides,"Hawke chuckles deeply. Despite the words, he doesn't seem to mind her clambering on him one bit, even securing his arms around her thighs to ensure she wouldn't fall off him any time soon. "Also what do I feel like to ya, a word expert?"He snorts with a shake of his head, starting to head back up deck. "Not sure if we'd get breakfast here, but if we do I'll make sure to give you all the fruit."
Hawke would be the last to disembark the boat while following behind the others, and had any cultists given them any strange or nasty looks, the kalashtar would return them back with a few glowers of his own, and if need be, tell them to shove off.
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\
"No I suppose not. But I thought our wordsmith may have enjoyed the insight." Ebele would chuckle awkwardly from all the effort of naming fruit she went too. Truthfully it wasn't all that painstaking, she was thinking of flavours for a good cider. The monk deflates when she realizes that they weren't actually going to get breakfast. Though Hawke's words did garner a small smirk from the half-elf, breaking her pout. With her stomach protesting out loud, she'd feel around for an apple from their rations to satisfy her craving for now.
Xalkas (One more LR and you can make another attempt at the EMBK.)
Carrying On Nothing to see here.
"Alright ya pirates, get a move on."
In an intimidating line up, a well disguised Argent Alliance group of fine cultists stride off the biggest boat in the ship yard. Shoalar's boat is well known in this keep, well respected, and perhaps even feared as of late. Moving north along the path, there are stairs that carry you up towards the north tower (K14). This tower stands on top of the bluff, overlooking to Dessarin River and the castle harbor below. Towards the east at the edge of your view is a chapel (K15).
Map (I'll have Reghys on look out again during Nemo's absence.)
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
T'chal'fronack'zcinicker boldly leads the group forward like he owns the place, heading for....he glances at the tower and the chapel. (2 even is chapel.) He walks over to the double doors, pressing them open like he owns the place, and walks on in, looking around...expecting a chapel converted to the worship of water or something.
Lead by a fearless tiefling the disguised Argent Alliance group of confident cultists stride through the north eastern side of the Castle Yard like they just brought home the biggest booty. Looking left, then right, the 'cultist leader' guides his crew towards the chapel. With intimidating mates trailing behind, no one was yet to question them.
Kerric, your constant awareness has you note there's a bandit guard standing outside the southern side of the chapel. Hawke's passive perception picks him up as well as another about 40 yards south of that one. That guard was stationed outside of what appeared to be their Barracks.
Storming Entering the Keep's Chapel
Pressing both doors open with some gusto, reiterating he practically owned the place, the well dressed 'Captain' entered the chapel. He'd lead his crew right by two Reavers, directly through rows of plain wooden pews towards the Priest who stood at the altar.
The Cultist Priest would turn to face those who enter with such enthusiasm. Her brows would pop, but her expression would quickly light up as she'd look over the whole group. Cloudy blue hues would scan each of you one by one before tilting to the side to look passed the impressive Tiefling and his large 'henchmen'. The tallest of the crew appeared to be carrying a blindfolded 'morning after still drunken maiden' while a curious little gnome tucked at the back behind them. "Ouu goodie! You must be the ones Shoalar promised me." She'd tap long slender fingers together. The Priest would snap her attention back to the 'Leader' before leaning back in to him with a pout. "You know, he's been promising me new recruits for indoctrination for weeks." Her hands would gesture prior to resting on her hips.
The cultist would then correct her face back to a sunny smile. "But you're here now!" She'd bounce before you with excitement. "Come, come! Sit. All of you!" She'd gesture to the pews. "You may as well stay." Taking the 'Captain's hand, insisting, "You're in for a real treat!" Then the Priest starts, launching into an exhaustive sermon about the 'truth of the deep waters' and the 'great revelations' to come.
"I'm good. I don't want to sit..." Ebele mutters lowly only for those around her to hear. "Do we have to stay here?" She was a little weirded out and didn't believe they were going to actually get a treat after this. Although she didn't want to listen, the monk's ears were perked and hyper aware. They were literally inside the 'lions den' at this point.
As the Priest speaks, Xalkas' scholarly eyes find no idol hints at what deity is venerated here. A crude symbol is painted on the wall above the altar, resembling an X with a horizontal bar linking the bottom limbs. He immediately recognizes it as the Crushing Wave Cultist Symbol. The gnome would also notice several straw pallets lie near the chapel door.
"Oh boy, here she goes again..." From the back the two reavers with the Priest roll their eyes and look bored. "Once Drosnin begins, she drones on for at least two hours." They do not make any attempt to stop her of course. Therefore, Drosnin keeps going and going unless someone interrupts her.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Kerric:
His eyes narrowing, Kerric evaluates the blindfolded maiden, concerned that the water cultists might have a rather unfortunate fate planned for her.
Insight: 11
As the priestess starts rolling into a well-practiced treatise on the water cult religion, Kerric asks T'chal'fronzack'zcinicker, "Can we spare the time here, or should we report in first captain?"
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
T'chal'fronack'zcinicker is quiet for a few minutes. He looks about, nodding, and muttering things like, "Right.....yes.....oh....ok...yes.."
He's willing to listen to the sermon for a short time, hoping that it will give him some clue about the water cults' goals. He asks probing questions at times, trying to learn what their aims seem to be. What is the end game here? What are they trying to achieve, both in the short term and long term.
From below deck somewhere, the exhausted tiefling in a dapper suit is snoring soundly.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
Xalkas curls up next to Kerric using a couple of the books as a makeshift pillow.
With Hawke's eye, they had been able to find clothes Ebele described, clean and in her size to boot! Unsupervised though, her blouse ended up inside out with a button misaligned. Maybe the look would work for the blindfolded monk? But hearing those impressions.... Hopefully none of the cultists try speaking with her.
Investigation: 13
On Success: You find something in your size to dress yourself up. +Advantage on CHA rolls against cultists with your disguise
Success!
Performance/Deception: 8
DC 10: Well done! Nothing's on inside out or backwards.
Failed!
Kerric says, "Thank you, Ebele. Wake me when it is my turn to watch."
Ebele would offer a warm smile and a nod in agreement. "Focus on rest, so you can be at your best." Her head would quirk slightly as if she winked.
"I, uh, I do, yeah, sorta... I mean, I'm... I'm lookin' for her. That's kinda why I'm with this bunch..." He glances over towards the others. "Erm... Why... why ya askin'?"
"Hmm. So ya do." Mort would relax half an inch of space from you, Hawke. "And ya are eh?" Brows pop to bug his eyes out more, still unblinking. They'd finally move, only to look you up and down. He'd nonchalantly tour around you, studying you with a tilting head. "E.E. send you? Hmm?" The druid would sniff you curiously, looking for confirmation. His eyes would then dart to look at your group of friends before looking back at you. Mort was closer again. It was as if he were looking deep into your soul, testing your resolve. After an uncomfortably long moment, slowly, finally, but not at the same time, his eyelids would blink. "I'll be back." He'd step away.
The bulk of the boats prep work was already done by the cultists. But it still took some some time to complete a comprehensive safety checklist fit for T'chal'fronack'zcinicker's approval. Eventually everyone was outfitted, those designated for rest were settled in and already well on their way with some sleep. The boat was finally ready to set sail and conveniently, Mort had finished delegating his work.
The Mortician would do his signature hop skip back over. "I'd like to give ya a hand." He'd reach a closed fist out to fist bump. With or without reciprocation, he'd pump his arm up into the air with enthusiasm before spreading his fingers as wide as the grin that soon grew on his face. "Huzzah!" Mort would release a whole waft of pollen, sprinkling it to the wind. It'd spread and expand, washing over the boat. Then with an lopsided bounce, he'd hand spring forward towards the edge, tossing himself into the air. "Boop!" The druid would click his heels together. With a poof and a plop, he'd disappear into the water.
Mindful of Mort
Hawke if you connect mentally with Mort:
Teresiel was chosen among many others to be a part of the diplomatic delegation to Mirabar. Communicating with Mort in this manner revealed a sound mind of great wisdom. The Emerald Enclave is investigating into her disappearance and the pouch of magical seeds she was transporting. His responses were sincere and direct. Evidence, and lack there of, points to her being captured and transported. I believe you and your friends are on the right track. Save her...
After some really long awkward silence, Ebele would clear her throat and she'd set off as per Hawke's initial navigation instructions. She was all ears for the world and help around her. It was almost as if the monk felt into a comfortable trance, as if she was at ease from all their preparation. There was this sense of confidence and air of safety, like they were being guided along this night.
Shifts changed and night would become morning. Those awake to see it, are graced with the much anticipated view of the keep.
Long Rest!
(Smash that long rest button! Time to wake and bake!)
Rivergard Keep
A small castle overlooks the mighty Dessarin River, which is a good half-mile wide at this point. A gatehouse and keep stand atop a low bluff, but the walls are built to the water’s edge. On the river bank, another low tower guards a boat basin where keelboats are moored.
The keep seems old and worn, but new timbers and shingles suggest that repairs are underway. A white banner with a blue gauntlet flies over the keep. The front gate is closed.
The keep’s eastern wall is built into the river, forming a long pier that encloses a boat basin. A heavy chain that emerges from the tower to the south stretches across the entrance.
Perception/Investigation
(Here-ey! Here-ye!)
DC 15:
The heavy chain appears to be raised and lowered by the winch in the tower by the river. It provides Rivergard’s defenders with the ability to block boats from entering or leaving. Someone swimming could probably easily go over or under the chain — it impedes only boat traffic.
A male human with lank black hair looks out of the arrow slit in the tower by the river. He has a drooping mustache and a sour expression. “What do you want?” he asks.
just an unstable unicorn.
Kerric:
Waking in the wee hours of the morning, Kerric takes his shift at watch -- and oars, if necessary -- then rests again until sunrise. Getting back into his armor and outfitting himself as befits the enforcer for an up-and-coming cultist leader, he prepares himself for the upcoming mission.
Investigation: 17
Hanging out and trying the quiet glower/Intimidation: 17
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
He turns and nods to Kerric and gives him a wink, sure he's sold the story.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
The man squints, focus narrowing in on you from up high. The boat definitely looked familiar. Catching a good glimpse of the glowering enforcer he'd gulp. He'd hop to before the Captain started rambling on about pens. He hurried for the armoured man as if he had disrespected a commanding officer.
There was only really one available spot for
the Argent AllianceShoalar and his new cultists to park in the boat basin. The keelboat is ushers into its place against the inner side of the keep's east wall and a rope ladder would eventually be tossed down from the top of the wall to the deck of the boat.Map
You moved through (K11) and are now at (K12).
(Will pause here for other's to wake up/be woken up, prepare and join you on the deck for disembarking. Take your time.)
just an unstable unicorn.
Kerric:
Satisfied that they have been granted admission, Kerric smiles at T'chal'fronack'zcinicker and says, "Where are the rest? Still getting their beauty sleep?" The warrior elf prepares to climb the rope ladder, but waits for his "captain" to give the word.
Looking at K13, is that another chain across a waterway entering a cave, or something else...Just what we could see looking at it from aboard the ship, as it is not clear from the top looking down.
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
T'chal'fronack'zcinicker glances over at Kerric, "Well, to be honest, I slept pretty solidly through the whole ride. Very well, sleeping while in a boat was rather peaceful. It makes me wonder, perhaps people may enjoy sleeping on water. If only there was some way to make a bed out of water to sleep on, with waves. Perhaps we could get a big bag that could hold water, and then fill it, like a giant water skin, then sleep on that. I bet they'd be all the rage. I'm going to need to have you sign an NDA and non-compete agreement at this time, since this is my idea, though I do need investors and employees in case you're interested. Anyway, regarding the others, I really have no idea. I'm just chatting with you now about this dribble to make us seem normal while we wait for the others. Which makes my mind wander and think of strange things. For example, what came first, the color orange, or the fruit. Was some dude like, 'that thing is orange colored...lets call it an 'orange'..' or .... anyway....i think you get the idea."
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
There were only a few people Hawke would allow in his personal space and Mort definitely hadn't been one of them. The subject matter of their conversation was about the only thing keeping him from telling the guy to back up out of his face, though when the older druid began to circle around him, he relaxed just the tiniest bit. At least he wasn't staring directly at him anymore.
At the mention of the Emerald Enclave however, the kalashtar's eye follows Mort just before he got uncomfortably close again. "Just me. Not them." He corrects, in case the mortician was under the assumption all of them were with the E.E. Despite the discomfort, Hawke manages to keep eye contact with the man long enough until he took a step away. Doing what, he didn't know or care, as now he could finally take a deep breath without worry of catching the scent of something rancid.
Of course, it wouldn't last long, as Hawke could smell him from miles away, but at least this time he wasn't as shaken as he was before when he was approached. The druid quirked a brow at an attempted fist bump, suspicious at the intention, but slowly moves a closed fist towards the others, only for Mort to have moved onto pumping his fist in the air. Hawke watched with a quizzical expression on his visage as Mort would release a waft of pollen onto the ship (Arcana to maybe see if he could tell what spell was cast, if any? 12), then plop himself in the water.
Thankfully, the druid himself caught on and ensured to forge a mental link with the other, in case it was needed. After listening to the mental spiel, Hawke scans over the ship and says to himself, "Yeah, he really is one of those druids, ain't he?" With a sigh, the kalashtar moves onto the ship. We will save her, and I appreciate the help, Mort.
Hawke had accidentally slept in that night after his shift with Ebele, wanting to take another nap before they entered the keep. He was a lot more spent than he thought, but at least it made the time go by faster.
"Where are the rest? Still getting their beauty sleep?"
"Yes, actually," Hawke replies, popping up from out of no where, unravelling his hair from its braids that he had woven them into last night. "You think I look this immaculate by not sleepin' in? Tsk, tsk. Also orange, the fruit, came first." He throws in response to Snicker's ramblings. "I'll wake everyone else up. Gimme a sec." After ensuring his curls were nice and curly, Hawke moves to shake everyone that hadn't been up, awake. "Rise n' shine, sleep heads, we got a big day ahead of us. Hop to it!"
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\
T'chal'fronack'zcinicker shakes his head, "Well, if that's the case, then why aren't more colors named after fruit? Why isn't yellow actually banana. Or green or red could be apple...depending on the apple type of course."
Then he realizes he's getting too into the actual discussion and clears his throat and acts all 'captain-y'. "Yeah, rise and shine ya land-lubbers. Time to get a move on!"
He shrugs apologetically at Hawke.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
Kerric, carrying through your investigation as the boat pulled into place and prepared for disembarking, you got a good scan of the area across.
(K10 Landing) The keep’s eastern wall juts out into the river, forming a good-sized basin in which a couple of keelboats float. Keelboats full of loot and stolen goods off-load their cargo here. The boat tied up right next to the landing looks currently empty. The water in the boat basin appears to be about 15 feet deep, although it naturally shallows near the shore. A wide gap in the southeast wall provides access to the river, although it is blocked by a heavy chain. A twenty-foot tall bluff of rock and earth separates the landing and a nearby tower from the rest of the castle grounds. To the north, a wide stream flows out of a cave mouth into the boat basin. An iron grate blocks access to the stream.
(K13 The Dark Stream)The north side of the boat basin laps against a steep, rocky bluff. From the base of the bluff, a subterranean river empties into the boat basin. The river is close to thirty feet wide, and the cave ceiling is about six feet above the water level in the middle. The iron grate that blocks the mouth of the stream has a swinging gate section that's safe to assume would be secured by a simple lock. The stream you estimate is about 10 feet deep.
A groan comes from Ebele when the already coherent start trying to rouse her and the others. Normally she was one to be up early, bright eyed and bushy tailed, ready for the day. Today though, the monk was caught a little out of sorts from spending a double shift on a ship, blindfolded. Rising her head and torso from where it rested, the blonde was caught with some wild bedhead, her shirt lopsided and a dribble of drool. She'd wipe her mouth. Having heard some of the discussion before being encouraged out of bed, the halfelf would call out, "You're welcome!"
When she'd hear Hawke turn to step away, Ebele would grab hold of him, using his momentum to pull herself up onto his back so he could carry her out. "Would Blueberries, Blackberries, Grapefruit or Pomegranate count? Oh! Tangerine!? Mmm..." She'd hum a little before adding. "How about Cherry!" " Her stomach would respond to the thought of all the fruit. She'd then point ahead dramatically in a random direction. "To breakfast!" The monk would chuckle. At least she didn't call Hawke a peasant this time. "You're such a Peach." She'd rustle his beauty slept curls, grinning innocently before resting her chin on his head. "Ouu! That's one too!"
just an unstable unicorn.
“Here already?” Xalkas comes up from below decks. “I thought it would take longer. ... Well what are we waiting for?”
T'chal'fronack'zcinicker looks around, seeing everyone present, "Alright ya pirates, get a move on." He heads up the gangplank and walks to the left looking for the path towards the keep. He boldly walks forward as if he knows where he's going.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
When he sees the snoozers rouse from their place, the druid begins to turn on his heel, replying to Xalkas with, "Best way to pass time is by gettin' some good ol' beauty sleep, Xal-- Whoop--" Though he ends up getting cut off by Ebele tugging him back a bit to clamber on his back.
"I oughta charge you for these piggy back rides," Hawke chuckles deeply. Despite the words, he doesn't seem to mind her clambering on him one bit, even securing his arms around her thighs to ensure she wouldn't fall off him any time soon. "Also what do I feel like to ya, a word expert?" He snorts with a shake of his head, starting to head back up deck. "Not sure if we'd get breakfast here, but if we do I'll make sure to give you all the fruit."
Hawke would be the last to disembark the boat while following behind the others, and had any cultists given them any strange or nasty looks, the kalashtar would return them back with a few glowers of his own, and if need be, tell them to shove off.
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\
Kerric:
Following closely behind his "captain", Kerric glowers at anyone who looks at them questioningly.
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
"No I suppose not. But I thought our wordsmith may have enjoyed the insight." Ebele would chuckle awkwardly from all the effort of naming fruit she went too. Truthfully it wasn't all that painstaking, she was thinking of flavours for a good cider. The monk deflates when she realizes that they weren't actually going to get breakfast. Though Hawke's words did garner a small smirk from the half-elf, breaking her pout. With her stomach protesting out loud, she'd feel around for an apple from their rations to satisfy her craving for now.
Xalkas
(One more LR and you can make another attempt at the EMBK.)
Carrying On
Nothing to see here.
"Alright ya pirates, get a move on."
In an intimidating line up, a
well disguised Argent Alliancegroup of fine cultists stride off the biggest boat in the ship yard. Shoalar's boat is well known in this keep, well respected, and perhaps even feared as of late. Moving north along the path, there are stairs that carry you up towards the north tower (K14). This tower stands on top of the bluff, overlooking to Dessarin River and the castle harbor below. Towards the east at the edge of your view is a chapel (K15).Map
(I'll have Reghys on look out again during Nemo's absence.)
just an unstable unicorn.
T'chal'fronack'zcinicker boldly leads the group forward like he owns the place, heading for....he glances at the tower and the chapel. (2 even is chapel.) He walks over to the double doors, pressing them open like he owns the place, and walks on in, looking around...expecting a chapel converted to the worship of water or something.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.
Lead by a fearless tiefling the
disguised Argent Alliancegroup of confident cultists stride through the north eastern side of the Castle Yard like they just brought home the biggest booty. Looking left, then right, the 'cultist leader' guides his crew towards the chapel. With intimidating mates trailing behind, no one was yet to question them.Kerric, your constant awareness has you note there's a bandit guard standing outside the southern side of the chapel. Hawke's passive perception picks him up as well as another about 40 yards south of that one. That guard was stationed outside of what appeared to be their Barracks.
StormingEntering the Keep's ChapelPressing both doors open with some gusto, reiterating he practically owned the place, the well dressed 'Captain' entered the chapel. He'd lead his crew right by two Reavers, directly through rows of plain wooden pews towards the Priest who stood at the altar.
The Cultist Priest would turn to face those who enter with such enthusiasm. Her brows would pop, but her expression would quickly light up as she'd look over the whole group. Cloudy blue hues would scan each of you one by one before tilting to the side to look passed the impressive Tiefling and his large 'henchmen'. The tallest of the crew appeared to be carrying a blindfolded 'morning after still drunken maiden' while a curious little gnome tucked at the back behind them. "Ouu goodie! You must be the ones Shoalar promised me." She'd tap long slender fingers together. The Priest would snap her attention back to the 'Leader' before leaning back in to him with a pout. "You know, he's been promising me new recruits for indoctrination for weeks." Her hands would gesture prior to resting on her hips.
The cultist would then correct her face back to a sunny smile. "But you're here now!" She'd bounce before you with excitement. "Come, come! Sit. All of you!" She'd gesture to the pews. "You may as well stay." Taking the 'Captain's hand, insisting, "You're in for a real treat!" Then the Priest starts, launching into an exhaustive sermon about the 'truth of the deep waters' and the 'great revelations' to come.
"I'm good. I don't want to sit..." Ebele mutters lowly only for those around her to hear. "Do we have to stay here?" She was a little weirded out and didn't believe they were going to actually get a treat after this. Although she didn't want to listen, the monk's ears were perked and hyper aware. They were literally inside the 'lions den' at this point.
As the Priest speaks, Xalkas' scholarly eyes find no idol hints at what deity is venerated here. A crude symbol is painted on the wall above the altar, resembling an X with a horizontal bar linking the bottom limbs. He immediately recognizes it as the Crushing Wave Cultist Symbol. The gnome would also notice several straw pallets lie near the chapel door.
"Oh boy, here she goes again..." From the back the two reavers with the Priest roll their eyes and look bored. "Once Drosnin begins, she drones on for at least two hours." They do not make any attempt to stop her of course. Therefore, Drosnin keeps going and going unless someone interrupts her.
Map
just an unstable unicorn.
Kerric:
His eyes narrowing, Kerric evaluates the blindfolded maiden, concerned that the water cultists might have a rather unfortunate fate planned for her.
Insight: 11
As the priestess starts rolling into a well-practiced treatise on the water cult religion, Kerric asks T'chal'fronzack'zcinicker, "Can we spare the time here, or should we report in first captain?"
Gerrard Feldren - Human Noble in Ghosts of Saltmarsh
Kerric Brightblade - Elven Warrior in "Apocalypse"
(I believe the blindfolded maiden is Ebele?)
T'chal'fronack'zcinicker is quiet for a few minutes. He looks about, nodding, and muttering things like, "Right.....yes.....oh....ok...yes.."
He's willing to listen to the sermon for a short time, hoping that it will give him some clue about the water cults' goals. He asks probing questions at times, trying to learn what their aims seem to be. What is the end game here? What are they trying to achieve, both in the short term and long term.
What's the difference between a Wizard and a Sorcerer?
Class.