For three days, the horizon has been nothing but a flat, blue line. The steady slush-slush of the waves hitting the Singing Siren's hull has become the background noise to your lives. Captain Jackson Marrow – a man whose voice sounds nothing like a siren's – hasn't stopped barking orders or belting out bawdy sea shanties since you cleared the harbour. His crew never seems to rest, pulling ropes, moving crates, or scrubbing the deck, their voices rising in a discordant choir to join him that competes with the crying gulls overhead. The air is thick and sticky: a mixture of brine, old fish, and the sharp, metallic tang of the Sword Coast.
As uneventful as it has been, the journey hasn't been kind to everyone. For Ash and Onji, every roll of the ship feels like a punch in the gut. The horizon won't stay still, and the smell of the crew's salt-fish rations is your greatest enemy. Because of your failed Constitution saves, you both feel the weight of sea illness. You are currently seasick (you have Disadvantage on attack rolls and ability checks) until you set foot again on solid ground.
Irtos and Marin, you have fared much better, quickly adapting to the taste of salt and the constant, rhythmic sway of the waves. You've spent the days watching the coast slip by, dolphins jump high out of the water, or perhaps checking your gear for the tenth time.
Then there is Dirk. While others struggle with their footing, you stand as firm as stone, as if you are part of the ship itself. The sea doesn't bother you. In fact, the deep, heavy pressure of the ocean beneath the hull reminds you of the weight of the mountain. It is as if you've spent your entire life in sea.
The captain informed you earlier that today is the day you reach your destination, but it seems you still have a few more hours onboard.
[Feel free to describe your characters, how they got onboard, and what they've been up to. Some may have acquainted themselves with others, while others may have stayed alone.]
Onji, upon hearing the latest timetable, feels a ray of hope. But, until Onji is on land, he just sits wearing just the bare minimum to be decent, located in the middle of the ship and stares at the rolling horizon as he tries to maintain intestinal composure. Onji has his armor attached to the backpack as he uses that Armor/backpack as a backrest. He keeps his moans & groans to a minimum and volume silent. Not focusing on anything but that horizon. He was informed about the potential for seasickness and told to do that, but Onji had not expected this sickness to last this many days.
Irtos spent her time between watching the sea and the coast go by, and treating anyone one who needed treatment. Mostly that involved doing what she could to help Ash and Onji. But with the resources available to her on ship, there really wasn't much she could do to relieve their suffering.
Irtos is a red dragonborn, wearing a chain shirt, with a shield strapped to her backpack and a mace hanging from her belt. But where most dragonborn are large and powerful, Irtos is short and scrawny. She looks more like a large kobold than kin to dragons.
During the voyage, Irtos has been friendly and outgoing, trying to be friends with both the other travelers and the crew. She's freely shared that this is the first time she's been out on her own, and that she's going to Stormwreck Isle because she found a reference to it in her reading, and got curious about this graveyard of dragons.
Dirk Walker seems to stare off into space most of the journey. When Irtos makes her introductions, he gives a slight shake and politely introduces himself, “Nice to meet you Irtos. My name is Dirk Walker, Clan Quarvien, son of Gravus Walker. I am hoping to find some answers at Stormwreck Isle. Perhaps we might share a drink or a meal in the days ahead?” Dirk seems a little anxious now that he’s focused on the present. Once Irtos moves on to meet others, Dirk goes back to his thoughts.
Dirk’s apparel has seen better days, and what looks like grit or dust is actually his minerally freckled skin. Otherwise at 5’ 200lbs he looks simply dwarvish. From time to time he observes the sails or crew with undo focus, just taking in every detail. One oddity might be his stone club (mineral saturated wood).
Marin spends the three days watching the crew, trying to pick up a few lessons on sailing the ship or at least the tasks involved in serving aboard one. He keeps his distance from Onji due to a superstitious belief that the closer he is to Onji the more likely he is to get seasick. After Captain Jackson Marrow announces that they will make landfall today Marin finds he is both excited and anxious over the news. In response to Irtos' greetings, "My name is Marin. It looks like another day of fair weather if it holds." gesturing towards any clouds in the sky before glancing ahead and asking, "What do you think your reading of Stormwreck Isle was referencing in regards to a... 'graveyard of dragons,' a graveyard where dragons are buried or where dragons bury those they kill?"
Marin is a forest elf with hair, skin, and eyes in different shades and hues of green... even his armor is dyed dark green. He has a shortbow slung over his shoulder and a shortsword rides his hip, several daggers are also located strategically about his person. Marin has a friendly enough demeanor but it is clear that he is only half in the present and the other half is that of a dreamer. Over the three days aboard ship he helped break up the monotony whenever the hours began to drag with a leading question or insightful comment about Stormwreck Isle.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"A rightful place awaits you in the Realms Above, in the Land of the Great Light. Come in peace, and live beneath the sun again, where trees and flowers grow."
— The message of Eilistraee to all decent drow.
"Run thy sword across my chains, Silver Lady, that I may join your dance.”
Ash's complexion goes from gray to a variety of green, dependent on the roll of the ship. His long gold hair is is in a pony tail and wrapped around his neck twice. "so I don't heave all over my self" he says joylessly. Upon hearing the Captains announcements Ash celebrates by heaving once more over the side. "Never been on a ship before." he says while trying to use a cantrip to clean himself. Ash watches his shipmates quietly, taking in what he can from his observations. Each of them holds some intrigue to him in one way or another. He smiles and waves on occasion but keeps his distance just incase he is hit with another fit and heaves all over someone else.
Marin spends the three days watching the crew, trying to pick up a few lessons on sailing the ship or at least the tasks involved in serving aboard one. He keeps his distance from Onji due to a superstitious belief that the closer he is to Onji the more likely he is to get seasick. After Captain Jackson Marrow announces that they will make landfall today Marin finds he is both excited and anxious over the news. In response to Irtos' greetings, "My name is Marin. It looks like another day of fair weather if it holds." gesturing towards any clouds in the sky before glancing ahead and asking, "What do you think your reading of Stormwreck Isle was referencing in regards to a... 'graveyard of dragons,' a graveyard where dragons are buried or where dragons bury those they kill?"
Irtos thinks for a moment before answering, "I suppose it is both. There are several dragons buried there, but they were buried by the dragons that killed them."
Onji, when introduced to Irtos, was mentioning that he was a hired guard for a gentleman that was hired to come to the Isle and observe. That gentleman died of old age according to the local constable a days journey from the docks. Being so close to the Isle, Onji decided to look and report back for the old man. Onji adds about the old man, "His hair was whitish and he looked about as old as that sailor," pointing to a middle aged white blond humanoid.
Onji has packed used looking armor with dark splotches on it and his shield has dings. Based on the young dwarf's mocha skin and dark hair, he does not look old enough to have done the deeds his armor shows. In fact he does not look old enough to drink in a bar, if there where age restrictions.
Dirk catches on to what Onji is describing, “Excuse me young one, sorry to interrupt, was this individual you described a dwarf perchance and if so did he give you a name?”
Dirk Walker is, after three days of not interacting much, suddenly pacing his hands gripping his club.
Onji, starts to reply, but the seasickness still has a grip. Onji raises his finger as a pause...gets himself together...then answers Dirk, "No he was not a dwarf like the two of us are. He
was an old human, not ancient like some humans. He died in his sleep, was probably over 30 years old. So extremely old for him, not so for
Onji settles himself, then continues, "Where was I?...ah...his name was Durnek, seemed a nice enough guy, My employer's boss considered him a favorite and a go to guy for information....I think...Durnek worked for the family a very long time....funny thing I just met him for the 1st time on the day we left ...Durnek kept to himself...this whole trip...a bit skittish...I guess that is why I was chosen to join him and be his guard....but you can't guard against age."
Marin spends the three days watching the crew, trying to pick up a few lessons on sailing the ship or at least the tasks involved in serving aboard one. He keeps his distance from Onji due to a superstitious belief that the closer he is to Onji the more likely he is to get seasick. After Captain Jackson Marrow announces that they will make landfall today Marin finds he is both excited and anxious over the news. In response to Irtos' greetings, "My name is Marin. It looks like another day of fair weather if it holds." gesturing towards any clouds in the sky before glancing ahead and asking, "What do you think your reading of Stormwreck Isle was referencing in regards to a... 'graveyard of dragons,' a graveyard where dragons are buried or where dragons bury those they kill?"
Irtos thinks for a moment before answering, "I suppose it is both. There are several dragons buried there, but they were buried by the dragons that killed them."
"Do you think there could be treasure on the isle?" Marin looks off dreamily as if he can somehow see imaginary mounds of coins, overflowing chests, and various works of art, jewelry and other such treasures.
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
"A rightful place awaits you in the Realms Above, in the Land of the Great Light. Come in peace, and live beneath the sun again, where trees and flowers grow."
— The message of Eilistraee to all decent drow.
"Run thy sword across my chains, Silver Lady, that I may join your dance.”
Marin spends the three days watching the crew, trying to pick up a few lessons on sailing the ship or at least the tasks involved in serving aboard one. He keeps his distance from Onji due to a superstitious belief that the closer he is to Onji the more likely he is to get seasick. After Captain Jackson Marrow announces that they will make landfall today Marin finds he is both excited and anxious over the news. In response to Irtos' greetings, "My name is Marin. It looks like another day of fair weather if it holds." gesturing towards any clouds in the sky before glancing ahead and asking, "What do you think your reading of Stormwreck Isle was referencing in regards to a... 'graveyard of dragons,' a graveyard where dragons are buried or where dragons bury those they kill?"
Irtos thinks for a moment before answering, "I suppose it is both. There are several dragons buried there, but they were buried by the dragons that killed them."
"Do you think there could be treasure on the isle?" Marin looks off dreamily as if he can somehow see imaginary mounds of coins, overflowing chests, and various works of art, jewelry and other such treasures.
Irtos answers, "Possibly, but not likely. I'd assume the victorious dragons took any treasure from the ones they killed."
Dirk begins sketching a map of Stormwreck Isle once it comes into view. The ship’s distance and motion however work against his ability to accurately gage a proper scale, he may need to rework this once we make land.
Captain Marrow interrupts his singing to take a pull from a hidden flask. He offers Ash a sympathetic nod, having overheard the druid's struggle. "You ain't the first and you surely won't be the last. Most people get used to it eventually. Well... there are those who don't, but hopefully, you won't be one of 'em."
His ruddy face turns toward the other passengers and he gestures with the flask toward Onji. "Look, your friend over there is also suffering, but you'll both feel better soon."
Just then, the lookout's voice drifts down from the crow's nest, sharp and excited: "Land ho! Dead ahead!"
Far out on the horizon, an uneven silhouette breaks the flat line of the sea. It's small for now, barely more than a dot in the distance, but it's the first solid ground you've seen in days. The Captain squints, a grin splitting his weathered face. "Right on time. There she is, mates! Dragon's Rest. We'll be on 'em in no time if the wind holds."
[The island is finally in sight, but it will still be a little while before you arrive. Feel free to continue your conversations or ask the Captain any last-minute questions before the ship reaches the cliffs.]
Ash takes a deep breath. "Oh Good" he says. He then quickly puts his head over the side for another round of heaving. "What did I eat that was brown?" he says after the fit ends. Again he uses a cantrip to clean himself up. Turning to his companions, leaning heavy upon his staff. "I have an interest in the dragons too." he says. "I am curious of why dragons battle here. Why here and why does the land not heal at the site of their battles."
When Onji confirms the name, Dirk gets tense and fidgety. He doesn't ask any questions, he just looks upset. When he realizes his map is going to need to be reworked a real (elementalism cantrip) smell of turned soil can be detected. Dirk approaches the Captain, "Excuse me Sir, first let me say you and your crew are quite commendable, I've never sailed with finer sailors. Now I know this is perhaps an odd question but In your travels have you ever heard of a blue dragon named Balrathyx?"
Ash takes a deep breath. "Oh Good" he says. He then quickly puts his head over the side for another round of heaving. "What did I eat that was brown?" he says after the fit ends. Again he uses a cantrip to clean himself up. Turning to his companions, leaning heavy upon his staff. "I have an interest in the dragons too." he says. "I am curious of why dragons battle here. Why here and why does the land not heal at the site of their battles."
Irtos is happy to share her knowledge, "According to the legends I read, a powerful red dragon called Sharruth was sealed by 3 metallic dragons. That supposedly created a volcano that formed Stomewreck Island. Occasionally other chromatic dragons come seeking the power left behind by Sharruth, to be defeated by metallic dragons. The most recent reference I found a blue dragon being killed 100 years ago."
{This info from the recruitment post looked like what would be known by a scholar. I left out the later details, which Irtos would have no way to know.}
Captain Marrow bows theatrically at Dirk's words. "My, thank you, Master Dwarf. Just be careful those fine sailors don't hear you praising 'em so highly, or they'll be at my throat for a pay raise before the anchor's even dropped." He flashes the dwarf a quick grin, but his face turns thoughtful as he considers the name. "Balrathyx? Eh, maybe. Is that one of the many what got killed 'round these parts? Tell ya the truth, I’ve never been much good for names. Half of 'em sound like someone choking on a fishbone to me. But tell me the story of 'im and I’ll tell ya if I’ve heard the tale before."
“Balrathyx ‘the Shard’ lightning so strong turns sand to glass. The blue dragon… I, I’m sorry, never-mind me I, uh. I’ve got some studying to do once we arrive. Do you have any maps of the Isle? Perhaps you’d be interested in selling?” Dirk is obviously conflicted as to whether he should be openly asking about a dragon by name or keeping it to himself. Once he decides to be discreet, he calms and the earthy smell changes to a cedar incense (elementalism). He quietly mutters “…two paths, one forest…” (in elven)
Rollback Post to RevisionRollBack
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For three days, the horizon has been nothing but a flat, blue line. The steady slush-slush of the waves hitting the Singing Siren's hull has become the background noise to your lives.
Captain Jackson Marrow – a man whose voice sounds nothing like a siren's – hasn't stopped barking orders or belting out bawdy sea shanties since you cleared the harbour. His crew never seems to rest, pulling ropes, moving crates, or scrubbing the deck, their voices rising in a discordant choir to join him that competes with the crying gulls overhead. The air is thick and sticky: a mixture of brine, old fish, and the sharp, metallic tang of the Sword Coast.
As uneventful as it has been, the journey hasn't been kind to everyone. For Ash and Onji, every roll of the ship feels like a punch in the gut. The horizon won't stay still, and the smell of the crew's salt-fish rations is your greatest enemy. Because of your failed Constitution saves, you both feel the weight of sea illness. You are currently seasick (you have Disadvantage on attack rolls and ability checks) until you set foot again on solid ground.
Irtos and Marin, you have fared much better, quickly adapting to the taste of salt and the constant, rhythmic sway of the waves. You've spent the days watching the coast slip by, dolphins jump high out of the water, or perhaps checking your gear for the tenth time.
Then there is Dirk. While others struggle with their footing, you stand as firm as stone, as if you are part of the ship itself. The sea doesn't bother you. In fact, the deep, heavy pressure of the ocean beneath the hull reminds you of the weight of the mountain. It is as if you've spent your entire life in sea.
The captain informed you earlier that today is the day you reach your destination, but it seems you still have a few more hours onboard.
[Feel free to describe your characters, how they got onboard, and what they've been up to. Some may have acquainted themselves with others, while others may have stayed alone.]
DM: Hoard of the Dragon Queen Adventure, Dragons of Stormwreck Isle and even more dragons
Onji, upon hearing the latest timetable, feels a ray of hope. But, until Onji is on land, he just sits wearing just the bare minimum to be decent, located in the middle of the ship and stares at the rolling horizon as he tries to maintain intestinal composure. Onji has his armor attached to the backpack as he uses that Armor/backpack as a backrest. He keeps his moans & groans to a minimum and volume silent. Not focusing on anything but that horizon. He was informed about the potential for seasickness and told to do that, but Onji had not expected this sickness to last this many days.
Irtos spent her time between watching the sea and the coast go by, and treating anyone one who needed treatment. Mostly that involved doing what she could to help Ash and Onji. But with the resources available to her on ship, there really wasn't much she could do to relieve their suffering.
Irtos is a red dragonborn, wearing a chain shirt, with a shield strapped to her backpack and a mace hanging from her belt. But where most dragonborn are large and powerful, Irtos is short and scrawny. She looks more like a large kobold than kin to dragons.
During the voyage, Irtos has been friendly and outgoing, trying to be friends with both the other travelers and the crew. She's freely shared that this is the first time she's been out on her own, and that she's going to Stormwreck Isle because she found a reference to it in her reading, and got curious about this graveyard of dragons.
Dirk Walker seems to stare off into space most of the journey. When Irtos makes her introductions, he gives a slight shake and politely introduces himself, “Nice to meet you Irtos. My name is Dirk Walker, Clan Quarvien, son of Gravus Walker. I am hoping to find some answers at Stormwreck Isle. Perhaps we might share a drink or a meal in the days ahead?” Dirk seems a little anxious now that he’s focused on the present. Once Irtos moves on to meet others, Dirk goes back to his thoughts.
Dirk’s apparel has seen better days, and what looks like grit or dust is actually his minerally freckled skin. Otherwise at 5’ 200lbs he looks simply dwarvish. From time to time he observes the sails or crew with undo focus, just taking in every detail. One oddity might be his stone club (mineral saturated wood).
Marin spends the three days watching the crew, trying to pick up a few lessons on sailing the ship or at least the tasks involved in serving aboard one. He keeps his distance from Onji due to a superstitious belief that the closer he is to Onji the more likely he is to get seasick. After Captain Jackson Marrow announces that they will make landfall today Marin finds he is both excited and anxious over the news. In response to Irtos' greetings, "My name is Marin. It looks like another day of fair weather if it holds." gesturing towards any clouds in the sky before glancing ahead and asking, "What do you think your reading of Stormwreck Isle was referencing in regards to a... 'graveyard of dragons,' a graveyard where dragons are buried or where dragons bury those they kill?"
Marin is a forest elf with hair, skin, and eyes in different shades and hues of green... even his armor is dyed dark green. He has a shortbow slung over his shoulder and a shortsword rides his hip, several daggers are also located strategically about his person. Marin has a friendly enough demeanor but it is clear that he is only half in the present and the other half is that of a dreamer. Over the three days aboard ship he helped break up the monotony whenever the hours began to drag with a leading question or insightful comment about Stormwreck Isle.
Ash's complexion goes from gray to a variety of green, dependent on the roll of the ship. His long gold hair is is in a pony tail and wrapped around his neck twice.
"so I don't heave all over my self" he says joylessly.
Upon hearing the Captains announcements Ash celebrates by heaving once more over the side.
"Never been on a ship before." he says while trying to use a cantrip to clean himself.
Ash watches his shipmates quietly, taking in what he can from his observations. Each of them holds some intrigue to him in one way or another.
He smiles and waves on occasion but keeps his distance just incase he is hit with another fit and heaves all over someone else.
Irtos thinks for a moment before answering, "I suppose it is both. There are several dragons buried there, but they were buried by the dragons that killed them."
Onji, when introduced to Irtos, was mentioning that he was a hired guard for a gentleman that was hired to come to the Isle and observe. That gentleman died of old age according to the local constable a days journey from the docks. Being so close to the Isle, Onji decided to look and report back for the old man. Onji adds about the old man, "His hair was whitish and he looked about as old as that sailor," pointing to a middle aged white blond humanoid.
Onji has packed used looking armor with dark splotches on it and his shield has dings. Based on the young dwarf's mocha skin and dark hair, he does not look old enough to have done the deeds his armor shows. In fact he does not look old enough to drink in a bar, if there where age restrictions.
Dirk catches on to what Onji is describing, “Excuse me young one, sorry to interrupt, was this individual you described a dwarf perchance and if so did he give you a name?”
Dirk Walker is, after three days of not interacting much, suddenly pacing his hands gripping his club.
Onji, starts to reply, but the seasickness still has a grip. Onji raises his finger as a pause...gets himself together...then answers Dirk, "No he was not a dwarf like the two of us are. He
was an old human, not ancient like some humans. He died in his sleep, was probably over 30 years old. So extremely old for him, not so for
Onji settles himself, then continues, "Where was I?...ah...his name was Durnek, seemed a nice enough guy, My employer's boss considered him a favorite and a go to guy for information....I think...Durnek worked for the family a very long time....funny thing I just met him for the 1st time on the day we left ...Durnek kept to himself...this whole trip...a bit skittish...I guess that is why I was chosen to join him and be his guard....but you can't guard against age."
"Do you think there could be treasure on the isle?" Marin looks off dreamily as if he can somehow see imaginary mounds of coins, overflowing chests, and various works of art, jewelry and other such treasures.
Irtos answers, "Possibly, but not likely. I'd assume the victorious dragons took any treasure from the ones they killed."
Dirk begins sketching a map of Stormwreck Isle once it comes into view.
The ship’s distance and motion however work against his ability to accurately gage a proper scale, he may need to rework this once we make land.
Proficiency with tools (Wisdom) rolled 8 total 13
Captain Marrow interrupts his singing to take a pull from a hidden flask. He offers Ash a sympathetic nod, having overheard the druid's struggle. "You ain't the first and you surely won't be the last. Most people get used to it eventually. Well... there are those who don't, but hopefully, you won't be one of 'em."
His ruddy face turns toward the other passengers and he gestures with the flask toward Onji. "Look, your friend over there is also suffering, but you'll both feel better soon."
Just then, the lookout's voice drifts down from the crow's nest, sharp and excited: "Land ho! Dead ahead!"
Far out on the horizon, an uneven silhouette breaks the flat line of the sea. It's small for now, barely more than a dot in the distance, but it's the first solid ground you've seen in days. The Captain squints, a grin splitting his weathered face. "Right on time. There she is, mates! Dragon's Rest. We'll be on 'em in no time if the wind holds."
[The island is finally in sight, but it will still be a little while before you arrive. Feel free to continue your conversations or ask the Captain any last-minute questions before the ship reaches the cliffs.]
DM: Hoard of the Dragon Queen Adventure, Dragons of Stormwreck Isle and even more dragons
Ash takes a deep breath.
"Oh Good" he says. He then quickly puts his head over the side for another round of heaving.
"What did I eat that was brown?" he says after the fit ends.
Again he uses a cantrip to clean himself up.
Turning to his companions, leaning heavy upon his staff.
"I have an interest in the dragons too." he says. "I am curious of why dragons battle here. Why here and why does the land not heal at the site of their battles."
"Durnek"
When Onji confirms the name, Dirk gets tense and fidgety. He doesn't ask any questions, he just looks upset. When he realizes his map is going to need to be reworked a real (elementalism cantrip) smell of turned soil can be detected. Dirk approaches the Captain, "Excuse me Sir, first let me say you and your crew are quite commendable, I've never sailed with finer sailors. Now I know this is perhaps an odd question but In your travels have you ever heard of a blue dragon named Balrathyx?"
Irtos is happy to share her knowledge, "According to the legends I read, a powerful red dragon called Sharruth was sealed by 3 metallic dragons. That supposedly created a volcano that formed Stomewreck Island. Occasionally other chromatic dragons come seeking the power left behind by Sharruth, to be defeated by metallic dragons. The most recent reference I found a blue dragon being killed 100 years ago."
{This info from the recruitment post looked like what would be known by a scholar. I left out the later details, which Irtos would have no way to know.}
Captain Marrow bows theatrically at Dirk's words. "My, thank you, Master Dwarf. Just be careful those fine sailors don't hear you praising 'em so highly, or they'll be at my throat for a pay raise before the anchor's even dropped."
He flashes the dwarf a quick grin, but his face turns thoughtful as he considers the name. "Balrathyx? Eh, maybe. Is that one of the many what got killed 'round these parts? Tell ya the truth, I’ve never been much good for names. Half of 'em sound like someone choking on a fishbone to me. But tell me the story of 'im and I’ll tell ya if I’ve heard the tale before."
DM: Hoard of the Dragon Queen Adventure, Dragons of Stormwreck Isle and even more dragons
“Balrathyx ‘the Shard’ lightning so strong turns sand to glass. The blue dragon… I, I’m sorry, never-mind me I, uh. I’ve got some studying to do once we arrive. Do you have any maps of the Isle? Perhaps you’d be interested in selling?” Dirk is obviously conflicted as to whether he should be openly asking about a dragon by name or keeping it to himself. Once he decides to be discreet, he calms and the earthy smell changes to a cedar incense (elementalism). He quietly mutters “…two paths, one forest…” (in elven)