After a final breakfast together, the party splits for now. Occa, Jesse, Pharian, Brightaxe, Salaam, Gonzo, Niko, Op Code, Gilstrock, Darian and Robert pile into the portable hole with their gear, and wait for Valdar to teleport them south to Greyport. The balance of the party, with the luggage, gets ready to set off south down the Elven Coast Road on horseback and cart.
Valdar seals the hole, and when he unseals it again and you climb out, you find that you are somewhere different.
Looking about you, you see that you are in the centre of a good-sized city. At first glance, it looks considerably larger than the likes of Sandas. You are on one side of a square. On the other side is a wharf, overlooking a broad (~2 mile wide) river. To the west (left), the river broadens out even more, where it meets the sea. Across the river to the north is another settlement, though much smaller. A long bridge spans the river.
The square is crowded with people...almost all humans, elves and half-elves. You see ships being loaded and unloaded, piles of goods on the wharf, and vendors selling wares. The scene is noisy and chaotic.
It is much warmer here. It was just over 40F where you just were. Here, it is at least 30F warmer...and it is still fairly early in the morning. It is overcast.
You see a row of palm trees growing along the edge of the wharf.
"This is the Free City of Greyport," says Valdar. "That land over the river to the north is Dorian. Now, let us see about getting you people teleported on to Sincity."
The mighty elf-lord sets off across the square, with the rest of you trailing on behind him. He leads you down a wide boulevard - lined with more palm trees - and then down a side street. Finally, in a neighbourhood of narrow streets and small houses and buildings, he stops before an ancient ediface - the Guild Of Mages of Greyport. He leads you up the ancient, worn steps and into a small, musty-smelling lobby. He exchanges a few words with a man behind a small desk, who then leads him back deeper into the building while the rest of you wait.
A short time later, he returns with a youngish-looking man, who regards you owlishly through thick spectacles.
"This is Bobzo," says Valdar. "He is an arch mage, and has agreed to teleport you on to Sincity immediately."
He pauses.
"This is where we must part ways," he says at last. "I would like to thank all of you for accompanying me on this little adventure. Now, I must return to my castle...but I am sure that we will meet again."
When the farewells are done, all of you but Robert climb into the portable hole again. Robert closes it up...and in a few minutes opens it again. You climb out...to find that you are somewhere else again.
The first thing that hits you upon stepping out is the heat. The temperature is about 85F, and the air is very dry. The sun shines down on you through broken clouds. You are standing in a desert. To your right, about a mile away, is the ocean. Before you is a walled city.
You are standing on a cobbled road which leads up to a large gate in the white wall. A small number of people are in line, awaiting clearance from the apparently large number of guards stationed at the gate. You move towards the gate and wait your turn.
Finally, several heavily-armed guards approach you.
"Welcome to Sincity," says one of them, a corporal. "What is your business?"
"Well, sin, of course," Gilstrock says. After a pause, his brow takes on an uncertain look, and he says to Pharian. "I forget, are we for it or against it?"
Niko pushes his way to the front and says to the guard, "I want to buy a ship."
"For what purpose?"
Jesse smiles prettily and bows with a flourish, waiting to see the reaction.
The corporal eyes her up and down, then returns his attention to Niko.
Jesse smiles again, and steps forward, "Actually, we are looking more for a barge." she begins, "We wish to open a waterfront resturant and nightclub here. I have heard, in my travels, that there may be a place for us here. I am hoping that you could help us in this matter, perhaps help us, guide us even, through the normal chain so we can begin this new endevour." She smiles again.
"I'm a soldier, lady, not a real estate agent. Bringing in any contraband? Citizenships, please?"
Jesse smiles, "Well, thank you anyway. No contraband and Citizenships ... Sandas I guess. Is that what you mean Sir?" She says, a puzzled frown crossing her delicate features.
"I," Gilstrock says proudly, pounding his chest once, "am a free citizien of the country of Vill!"
"They don't like they're from Mestom," says another soldier.
"What is Mestom, Sir?" She asks, very puzzled now.
Niko grimaces and mutters "War with Mestom..." He looks very disconcerted.
"Pleasure," Salaam also replies with a wide smile, somewhat unlike his usually serious behavior.
The corporal glances first at Jesse and then at Salaam.
"That's not what your lady friend said," he replies, casually resting his hand on the butt of his sheathed sword. "Perhaps you should come inside and explain."
"Making money doesn't please you, it sure does for me," Salaam says with a quick recovery.
Jesse looks up, "Why it is too, what I said Sir. We are entertainers - our business is our pleasure, or we wouldn't be any good at it. And some of our troupe are bouncers, barkeeps, cooks, and the like. I imagine I shall give them time off to pursue their pleasures as well Sir. They are quite looking forward to it."
BrightAxe, completely befuddled by what is going on, is going to shut up and pretend to be some hired hand who isn't paid to talk - and hope like heck it fits into whichever story is finally accepted by those around us...
"We saw one of you teleport in, open up a portable hole and release the rest of you," says the corporal, "So there are obviously mages in your party. Going by your dress and armaments, you are obviously more than a troop of entertainers. Admittance denied."
He starts to move on to the next group of people behind you, awaiting clearance.
Niko doesn't budge. "Hey! I'm here to buy a ship! Mine was sunk by pirates and I am well known at the Merchant's Guild here. Are you trying to stop free trade, too?"
Jesse shrugs, "Well we didn't know it was a crime to be mages. They are the core part of our acts. And we have been adventuring far and wide looking for a suitable spot for our real night club .. Magellin's Morbid Marvels Club. But I guess you are in charge and can decide whether or not this fair city should have another club, or if people can even look around to see if a club would do well here ... guess we will open up business elsewhere then . ." Jesse sighs dramatically, looking very chagrinned.
"Sir, is there some restriction on people entering Sincity? I mean, I can see you wanting to prevent troublemakers from entering the city, but how do you determine who the troublemakers are? And what is contraband?"
The corporal pauses.
"Contraband is smuggled goods," he says. "And yes, there are restrictions on people entering the city. This is wartime, you know. People who give conflicting reasons for wanting to enter the city are automatically suspect. And," he adds, "Do not try to teleport past us into the city. You will be tracked and captured...and our penalties are very harsh."
Darian looks confused. "A war? Who are you fighting against?"
"No one at present, and we hope to stay neutral if we can."
"We just came from the far north and we're interested in going south. We thought this would be a good place to try and find a ship heading that way. Guess not."
"So...a third reason for wanting to enter the city.."
"Since we can't come in, can you tell us where we could go to find a ship?"
"I cannot. Try Greyport."
Gilstrock takes a few steps forward, standing tall, and engages his ring of Human Influence to make himself sound as charismatic and convincing as possible. He clears his throat and begins a bit of a speech.
"Excuse me sir, but you ain't ever seen our mages here. See, there's little more entertaining than a good mage who can really let loose with his magic. Or, even, just Pharian letting loose with his wit. And Pharian, in particular, is very amused when Jesse uses her wand. You gotta see Stiff do his beard trick, sometime, and when Occa up and a makes more copies of himself, that's a hoot! Oh, the mages, they're the most entertaining of our lot!"
Gilstrock waves his spear about as he continues. "And if you're worried about our dress and equipment, well, aren't the best spectacles mock battles? 'Lay on MacDuff' and all that? So, you see, we gotta carry around all these things, since they help those of us who aren't mages from being too boring."
"So, how can you say we aren't entertaining?" Gilstrock concludes.
At this point Gilstrock uses the ring's "suggestion" facility and says, "Please, since we are clearly so entertaining, grant us entrance to and a pass for free run of Sincity!"
The soldier smiles.
"Okay, you're admitted. Move along."
"Good job, Gil," Salaam says and walks by.
Jesse smiles and quickly moves along.
Darian clamps his mouth shut and moves into the city.
Op Code quickly follows behind Darian.
Once away from the gates, Darian says quietly. "May I suggest we head to the docks straightaway and get out of this place."
Once the group is clear of the guards, Jesse gives both Niko and Darian the evil eye. "In the future, I would suggest that you let the professionals handle things like gaining entrance to the town. It is usually bad to give away our plans, since we do not know who are friends and who are our foes." she says, chastizing the two men. "But yes, let us head over to see what we can. I am not sure that they will have a boat, but we might be able to commission one. Right now, I suggest you let Gil and I do the talking. Niko, you can advise us as to what is the best boat for our needs. Any problems?"
"Yes," says Pharian, "There's a problem with you talking. The guard didn't seem at all impressed with your particular brand of professionalism. It was Gilstrock who got us out of the mess you were doing so well getting us into."
Jesse rolls her eyes at Pharian, "Had you been paying attention, it was not till after Salaam entered the conversation that we had problems. After I had told him the story, he asked if we had any contriband and what our citizenship was." the bard says. "However, if you wish me to stop talking, that is fine, I will leave you alone Pharian. You are the worst sort of critic, you do nothing to help and then critize those around you who are trying to help. And to think, I was ready to help you get your ring back." Jesse says, then stops, throwing her hands up. "You win Pharian. Enjoy your victory."
Niko guffaws ."Yeah, but what are you going to do when the guard realizes he's been magically affected?"
Jesse shakes her head. "We will deal with that when and if the time arises. I am hoping that he forgets us, as he has to see many travelers every day. Besides, I suspect that we can cover the issue by examining different types of boats, not just the barge that I suggested to him, but a larger boat for possible 'adventures' with select members of the 'staff'" Jesse says, smiling to Niko.
"As for the ship, once I see them, I'll have a better feel for what we'll need to fight the pirates. I have a general idea, but it never hurts to see them first. I'll do the haggling, too...I have a good idea what they're worth."
"You may know what they are worth, which is excellent, but different from being able to haggle effectively. I believe that is best left to others. You can advise as to what you would pay, and let me do the rest. In fact, I kind of think that you and I should go alone to look for boats. It might look suspicious if the whole lot of us go trapsing through town looking at things. I suggest the following. First we get some accomidations uptown. Then Niko and I will go a visiting the docks and establish what is available and for what price. After that, we will work to procure the ship." Jesse looks hard at everyone, "Any questions?"
"Lass, I didn't become a wealthy merchant by not knowing how to haggle!" Niko responds with a wink. "When we get to the dock, I'll do the talking, you be prepared to show more leg and cleavage!"
Pharian rolls his eyes. "She should be able to handle that. At least the leg part. Did you know she used to pass herself off as a boy?"
"Pharian, behave. Some things are better left unsaid, mage," Salaam says to the mage.
"Hey, I don't know why you were lying to the guard. He was only doing his job. While it's appropriate to be vague, perhaps you want to work out your stories ahead of time. Then honest people like Niko and I know enough to keep quiet."
"I was not lying to the guard. I was making a cover story to deal with the information that Niko the knucklehead over there blurted out. Had he just said for pleasure or something similar, it would have been fine. When entering an unknown area, it is not the best thing to announce to everyone what you are planning to do!" Jesse says in an irritated voice. "Get it?"
"Um, Jesse? We aren't entertainers and we aren't going to open any club. So, you can call it whatever you want, but I saw it as a lie. I wouldn't have said anything, if you, Salaam and Niko hadn't all come up with different reasons for getting in."
"My point, Darian dear, is that had Niko not opened his mouth about buying a boat, so that everyone could hear him, I would not have been compelled to attempt to salvage and deflect the possible spys who I am sure that guard gets money from. Call me suspicious, but we are in unknown territory now, and the less that others know about us, the better. I agree that the simple is the best, but that does not always mean that one tells the whole truth."
"You are pathetic, ya know, lass. I am a merchant, known in this city...and probably not the first to have his ship sank by pirates."
"No Niko, I am not pathetic. I am trying to be cautious. I fear that those opposed to us have a network in place to provide them with information about our whereabouts. Besides, if you were known in this city, why did said guard give you such a hard time?" Jesse replies rolling her eyes and sighing softly.
Niko replies, "Because, as a sailor, I only come in by the port!"
Darian moves behind Niko and says, "Just let Jesse do her thing. It's not worth arguing with her and what's done is done. Now come back here and sulk with me. It'll make you feel better."
"And you love this wimp," Salaam snorts as he walks away from the quarreling duo and approaches Niko.
"Woah, woah, woah," Gilstrock says. "Look, we're in, and nobody died. Way I see it, that's pretty good for us. So there were problems, but hey, nobody's perfect. No need to go saying things about Darian which quite plainly aren't true. The wimp bit, I mean."
Darian nods in Gilstrock's direction. "Thanks for the support, Gil."
"Salaam, calling Darian, or Niko a wimp proves nothing but your own insecurities," she says as she rolls her eyes and heads off, alone, to find an inn, but of course she stays in earshot.
"Ah, refreshing woman psychology," Salaam says with a wry grin.
"Since you have said you have been here before, to which Gods are there temples dedicated to?" He asks, trying to switch the conversation.
Niko replies that he has seen temples devoted to Heimdall, Itzamna, Corellon Larethian, Frigga, Untamo, Tuoni, Mictlantecuhtli, Hel, Camazotz and others, here.
"No, I don't love Niko, I love Jesse. I thought you didn't have a problem with that."
"Darian, your behavior is unbecoming. I thought Jesse had more taste," Salaam says with a smile. "I guess the desert air is reminding me of home and of loved ones.. lost." He looks at Jesse softly.
Darian looks confused and then just shrugs his shoulders. "Whatever."
Niko scowls at Darian "Call me a wimp, eh? Care to try and prove it?"
"Allright, all three of you, cut it out," Gilstrock says to Niko, Darian, and Salaam. "You want wimps, we'll go find us some orcs and rid the world of them. In the mean time, we're all buds here, or Pharian and Occa and Stiff would have turned us into gnats and potted plants long ago."
Occa smiles and says, "I could do that if you want."
Darian continues to grin and asks innocently, "What did I do?"
Darian grins back and holds out his hands. "Hey, I didn't call you anything. Salaam did."
"Niko, I was referring to Darian. Jesse should be treated like a lady. My first wife, Ruba El-Ahad, eyes of turquoise, luxurious raven hair. She was a true lady and attention was always given to her. Ah," he says as he walks away, head down.
"I've no problem letting you make up stories about our purpose. I can keep my mouth shut long enough for that. I guess I'll go stand over there with Pharian and Occa and we can make rude, quiet comments about the whole thing while you and Gilstrock make up stories."
"I didn't make up any stories!" Gilstrock says, sounding hurt. "Those guys really crack me up!" He waves his fingers in the direction of Pharian and Occa. "I wasn't lying."
"Besides, if they really want us to, we can put on a show. Might be kinda fun. Gotta make sure that the place we do it will give us free beer, though."
Occa says, "I will be happy to turn someone into a frog."
Darian walks over to stand with Pharian and Occa, obviously not pleased.
Jesse shakes her head sadly and sighs.
"Little trouble in paradise, dear," Salaam says patting Jesse on the shoulder. "I think it was handled fine, just for future reference we could have a "leader" or spokesperson to handle situations like this," Salaam offers.
"A leader!?? Of this group?" Gilstrock exclaims, guffawing loudly.
"Fine with me," says Pharian. "So long as it's not Jesse. I vote for Gilstrock."
"I agree, but we did not have a chance to talk about it before hand, and then the situation arose." replies Jesse.
"Oh god, this is going to be a long adventure," mutters Robert.
Darian chuckles. "Better than a short one."
Occa then adds. "Okay...everyone hurry after Jesse. Let's stick together."
He hurries the party along muttering to himself, "Splitting up is bad....slowing the dm...good lord, she warned me about that."
Niko clears his throat. "So, who's coming with me to the docks? I know a guy there who could help us out there."
"I think you and Jesse should go. And if you think you need an armed escort, take Gil and myself. Or you can take everyone."
Jesse stands and waits to see what people want to do.
"Nah, the only armed escort I need is your lass Jesse!" Niko says with a wink. "But should ye not hear from us, the name of my friend there is Horatio Hornblower. Where will you all be? Might I suggest the Fish and Cake inn."
"Does the place have rooms? Jesse wanted us to go to an inn and settle there while you and she went looking for a ship. Take along at least Gil, though. He's great in a fight and with his ring, you may win past obstacles not counted upon."
Niko shrugs "Sure, whatever."
"Come along, Gilstrock. I know this great bar on the dock! Great beer and you should see the wenches in there!"
"Let's go see!" Gilstrock says with enthusiasm.
Finally, you make your way down to the docks. Walking through the city, you see that it is about the same population as Sandas, though somewhat more sprawling. Most of the buildings are low, perhaps three storeys at the most. They are of stone and brick, painted white to reflect the sun. Their roofs are flat, and many have decks and patios up there. The streets are crowded, for this is clearly a prosperous place.
Niko leads you to the Fish and Cake Inn. It is on the edge of the maritime district, and looks to be a decent place. The innkeeper knows Niko, and welcomes you all in.
Once you are settled, Niko, Jesse and Gilstrock set out to see Hornblower. Salaam goes over and talks to the innkeeper...
About an hour after they left, Niko, Jesse and Gilstrock return.
It is late morning.
"Well?" says Pharian.
"Yes I am, thank you." Niko replies.
"This guy Horatio," Gisltrock says, "he's got him some good rum. And I'm gonna learn how to fire a Ballista!"
"In about an hour, we're to meet with my friend and inspect the two ships that might suit us. After I've seen them, I'll have a better idea of which is more seaworthy and better fit for battle. I've also arranged for a crew so that I won't have to train you landlubbers, but I'd advise you to learn what you can from them while aboard. You never know when you might need them..."
"I'd like to learn, Niko."
Niko grabs a bar wench and orders an ale and a bottle of whiskey. "Want one, too, Gilstrock?"
"Which?" Gilstrock asks, gesturing at the three items Niko seems to have acquired for himself. "That is, I'll have an ale."
He looks around, and adds, "and something to eat...."
Niko says to Darian, "There will be plenty of time once we have a ship. You and Gilstrock will have some sort of lessons while we're aboard."
Darian salutes Niko. "Aye, aye, captain!"
"He's got this thing about saluting," says Pharian. "He used to be in the army."
Niko nods. "Just remember that, Darian. A captain's word is law aboard his ship...even if this captain isn't the full owner of the ship. We have a crew, already, so it is unlikely that you'll have to pull any duties aboard. But if I have to give you an order, you don't asks questions. You just do it. There are times aboard a ship where those precious seconds may mean the ship and crew's survival. Understood? And not just you, Darian. This must be abided by the entire party."
"Uh oh," Gilstrock says quietly, bouncing once on the balls of his feet. "Somebody's gonna be a frog pretty soon, I bet."
Darian nods. "When I was in the army, there was a time when we were transported by ship to an area that needed reinforcements. I remember that being drilled into us. I won't forget."
Occa rolls his eyes.
Niko sighs. "Listen, Occa. I know you're an arch-mage, but will you at least try?"
"Only if it seems to be the right thing to do. Otherwise, no."
Niko sighs and mumbles something about "...eccentric arch-mages..." as he does his shot of whiskey and chases it with the ale.
Pharian laughs. "Good luck, Niko," he says. "Control freaks are doomed to frustration with this group."
Occa giggles in agreement.
"While what your saying is probably true Niko - and I concur that one set of rules that we all follow would be best - I believe you've just made it more difficult to happen with this group," says BrightAxe.
"I'm not interested in controlling the group. It's just that if we're in a situation while aboard the ship, I may tell you to do something and I'll expect it to be done even if you don't know exactly why. I don't like to give orders except when necessary. Although, I would like you, Occa, to memorize a few select spells that I think would be useful in sea combat. I've never had the luxury of working with a powerful mage aboard my ship, even while in the navy."
Pharian looks at Niko appraisingly. "Yes, you do strike me as a control freak."
Niko shrugs and mumbles something about "...the 20%..."
Within an hour you are back at Hornblower's Nautical Supplies. It is across from the wharves, and you see many ships, either at anchor out in the bay or moored to the quay. The smell of tar and salt air fills your nostrils. It is noontime, and the temperature is in the high 80s. The streets are quieter, now, with many of the shops closing for the hottest hours of the day.
A middle aged man is awaiting you outside the shop. He seems to be a bit unsteady on his feet, but then so are Niko and Gilstrock by this time, too.
"Niko, you old sea-cucumber!" Hornblower exclaims, as you approach. "What a ripe fine crew o' landlubbers ye've taken up with! Are ye ready t' go lookin' at ships, me lad? Oh, and I've sent word to Lord Ramage!"
Niko grins. "Of course, we're ready! Let's go see these tubs that you call ships! Will Lord Ramage meet us there?"
"Yo, Horatio!" Gilstrock says. Clanking about in all his metal armor, he probably looks the ultimate landlubber. "Hope I'll learn me how to get around on ships pretty soon now!"
Horatio hands Gilstrock another bottle of rum.
"This'll start you!" he says with a chuckle. He turns to Niko. "Ramage'll meet us there. Let's go!"
He staggers off down the quay.
Niko inhales deeply, as you set off after him, "Ah! Love the smell of tar and saltwater!"
He leads you down the wharf, past many ships which are tied up while they load or unload cargo. At this hour, though, the area is fairly quiet, as people do not tend to work during the heat of the day. There is good reason for that, too, as the fighters in your group are rapidly learning as they swelter in their armour.
After a bit, you come to an even quieter part of the docks. The ships here seem to be older, and going by their appearances, have not put to sea recently. Many of them are covered by awnings, and do not have any sails rigged. Some do not even have any rigging rigged...and their masts look barren compared to the ships farther back.
At last, Horatio stops before a small, green-painted ship. Niko recognises it to be a schooner. It has two masts, and the name on the transom is Wild Cat.
Hornblower hails the ship, and a watchman waves you aboard.
"This be the first one, maties," says Horatio, as he leads you aboard via a gangplank. "She's a whalin' ship...used to do some fishin' up around Gale Island, too."
He leads you around the ship. She is single decked, with a hold amidships. The smell in the hold belies her heritage. Aft of the hold is a deck house, with a galley and a cabin. Behind the cabin is the wheel. Before it is a gangway leading down belowdecks. The lower areas are small and cramped. Indeed, you realise that there will be barely enough room aboard her for your own party...let alone a hired crew. However, perhaps you could convert the hold into extra living space. On the other hand, she would not require a large crew to sail her...perhaps half a dozen skilled sailors. Ahead of the hold belowdecks are several small lockers and storage rooms for supplies. For armament, she carries two ballistae.
"The owners are lookin' fer 25,000 gold for her," he says, as you head back down the gangway to the quay again. There, he goes over to a bollard, to which is tied a rope which disappears over the edge of the quay, to terminate in the bows of a large whaleboat tied up below. He waves you down a ladder, and you climb aboard her. Hornblower brings up the rear, after casting off, and jumps aboard last.
Then, he and Niko row you out to the second ship, which is anchored out in the harbour.
This one is much larger, being a two-masted brig. The name on her transom reads Triton. Hornblower hails her, and an old man drops a rope ladder over the side for you. You climb aboard, Gilstrock, Op Code, Robert and Darian sweating profusely in the afternoon heat.
"This is a sweet ship," says Hornblower, as you stand on the deck looking around. "She's a fast freighter, designed for carrying small, valuable cargoes. Sorta like yer old ship, Niko me lad! She ain't got much of a hold in her, but that probably won't concern you. She carries four ballistae and a light catapult, too."
You tour the ship. It has a raised afterdeck, upon which is the wheel and compass. The catapult is mounted here, too. The mid and foredecks are all one level, with several hatches leading below. There is also a companionway leading below, aft.
The below decks areas are still cramped by your landbound standards, but considerably more roomy than the schooner's. There is probably room for a 50 man crew...which is what Hornblower tells you would be needed to sail her and take her into a fight.
"40,000 gold is what the owner wants for her, me buck-o!" says Hornblower, when you are finished touring.
Both ships appear to be in fairly good condition, considering that they have been laid up for awhile. However, both would need some work on the sails and rigging before Niko would be satisfied enough to take them to sea. He suspects that the hulls are encrusted with barnacles and seaweed, too, which would slow the ships down. With a good crew, he guestimates two to three days work lies ahead. And, of course, there is the matter of provisioning them as well...
"AHOY, TRITON!" calls a voice from over the side. The old man goes over and nods his permission for the latest visitor to come aboard.
A youngish man, thin and almost gaunt in the face, with dark hair, climbs aboard. He is well dressed in town clothes, and almost foppish in appearance. But, he wears a cutlass on his belt, and he moves across the gently rocking deck with an ease that tells you that he is no stranger to a ship.
"Ramage, ye young urchin! Thank ye for comin' out!" says Hornblower, shaking his hand and offering him a bottle of rum. He turns to the rest of you. "This is Lord Ramage."
"Perhaps, before making a decision, we should see how large of a crew this young Ramage has. Also, do we have enough gold to cover either ship?" asks Niko of the rest of you under his breath.
Niko then steps forward and shakes Lord Ramage's hand. "Greetings! The name's Niko. I hear you and your crew are looking for a job. How many men do you have?"
Ramage smiles.
"Straight to the point. No messing around. I've got two dozen men I can count on."
Niko nods and grunts "All veterans, I assume?"
"That's right."
"This ain't gonna be no sea cruise, ya know. Standard wages and cut of the treasure?"
"Aye. My men will want 2gp per day each plus 5% of any treasure taken to split amongst themselves."
"I assume you know how to use that, too." Niko asks, pointing to Ramage's cutlass.
"Of course," he replies.
"I'll be glad to get this armor off as soon as possible. I don't want to go swimming in it again," Op Code mutters to himself.
Based on the crew Ramage has, Niko is inclined to buy the schooner. Niko would prefer the other ship, but only if he can find competent men to man her (from Horatio or Ramage).
"I can round ye up some more men," says Horatio, upon hearing this. He looks at the rest of you, before continuing, "If ye can put these flabby landlubbers to work as well, ye'll only need another ten or so."
Asking the others, out of earshot of Lord Ramage, Op Code rubs his head, "I forget, but do any of you know how long the others are supposed to take?"
"What others?" asks Robert.
"Vardui and company you twit," Op Code stares at Robert.
"Oh," says Robert.
Hearing Horatio's comment about flab, Pharian regards his guant arms and laughs. "I hope the boat doesn't rock," he says in a whiney voice. "That makes me ill. And what are all these ropes for at the back end?"
Ramage smiles.
"You will know every one of them by name by the time I'm finished with you."
Pharian pauses. "Actually, I used to work on a small boat many years ago. But that doesn't mean I like it."
Jesse chimes up, "I'll steer." she offers, smiling sweetly at Horatio, "If someone would be willing to show me the ropes, so to speak."
Robert coughs and almost falls overboard.
"Ramage, do ye have another helmsman or steersman capable of steering this ship besides yeself?" Niko asks.
"I do," says Ramage.
Jesse jumps up and down.
"I'll do it! I'll do it!" she offers, excited.
Niko nods, "Good. Train Jesse the basics. Nothing fancy. We just want another person to spell yours occassionally. She'll not be at the helm in bad weather or during battle."
"Is there a helm on this vessel and is it a major one or a minor one?" Salaam asks.
"Pardon me?" says Ramage, looking baffled.
Darian chuckles. "And I thought it was just me who didn't understand that."
Jesse chimes in, "I believe that he means a large helm, for the head. Gil has a pretty big head you know. However, Darian has a smaller head and would need a minor helm, or do you not wear helms at sea? I figured it would be some special outfit for the water."
"No, Jesse, on my world and many others, many sea going craft are outfitted with spelljamming helms that allow mages and priests to channel their respective magics into energy that will propel the craft through air and space to reach other worlds and spheres," Salaam quickly explains.
"Ahhh..." Ramage replies. "A vessel powered by magiks. The immortal elves, it is rumoured, have such vessels, and use them to sail to the stars. We have to rely on more mundane means, though, to sail our oceans."
Jesse looks at Salaam, "Really?" she asks, "Cool!"
Darian's eyes grow wide with wonder. "Really? That's magnificent!"
"Yes," he says with a smile at her enthusiasm. "I have only been on one such vessel, a Shou Lung trader, and we traveled to the Rock of Bral. Quite an interesting place!" Salaam says."It is quite a busy place, Wildspace that is, the Elven Imperial Army, the dreaded Neogi, the dwarves, and those bastard scro, arrgh, I am quite glad I am earthbound," he replies, "Anyway, when do we move out?" he asks, changing the conversation.
Niko strokes his chin as he looks over the Triton. "I figure with getting her hull scraped, installing new rigging, and making a few improvements, no sooner than a week."
Jesse snaps her fingers, "I might have to go shopping to get some appropriate clothes for sailing a vessel."
Darian smiles. "Well, if it's going to take some time to scrape the bottom, then you'll have a chance."
"Ah, sorry, I thought this must be a spelljamming vessel. I should have noticed the lack of mages and priests. Ok, Captain, I can influence the weather to make it more to our liking or to hamper any enemies. Other than that, my ability on this craft is quite limited. " Salaam responds to Ramage.
"You're wrong about you limited ability, Salaam. As a powerful cleric, the ability to generate provisions will be of great value. I believe Create Food and Water, not to mention Heroes Feast, will be two other spells. And don't underestimate the value of a good Earthquake spell!" says Niko.
"You are correct, Niko, as I have said, I am not one much for sea travel, so I can aid wherever I can." Salaam says, evidently not thrilled for an extended trip on the ocean.
"It may be smart to assume we cannot perform any meaningful work once out to sea since we don't know how many of us can travel without excessive sickness or can perform actions above a raw recruit," says BrightAxe.
"Aye, but we'll train you," replies Ramage. "You'll be too busy to have time to be sick."
"Works for me then," says BrightAxe.
Darian volunteers, "I can work in the rigging or the crow's nest. I don't know all the duties, but I'm willing to learn and I don't get seasick and I'm not afraid of heights."
"Good man...er...elf!" says Ramage.
Darian gives the man a half bow. "Thank you, Lord Ramage. My name is Darian Trist."
"I volunteer to fireball any ship that comes in range," says Pharian.
"You're hired," says Ramage with a smile.
"Ramage, train the ones willing to be trained and forget the others, they're not the type to follow orders anyway. Horatio, you see who you can get for our little voyage to man the Triton. Now, who do we see about buying this ship?"
"I'm the agent," says Horatio with a grin. "Ye can see me."
Niko looks at Horatio shrewdly "Horatio, ye old seadog, if I didn't know any better, I'd think you set me up! But let's get down to business...you know as well as I do that 40,000 gold is way too much for this barnacled covered barge. I mean, she looks to be in fairly decent shape, but we both know she'll need at least a week in drydock for scraping and repairs, not to mention I ain't sailin' with those riggings! What say you to 30,000 gold, you throw in the riggings for free...and pay half the drydock bills?" Niko says with a perfectly straight face.
"Done...only the price is 35,000."
Niko shakes his head "Tell you what, throw in a dozen mounted heavy crossbows with ammo and I'll meet you halfway at 32,500."
Horatio hesitates.
"A dozen?" he says, looking up and down the deck. "Where would ye mount them? If that's what ye want, though, it's a deal!"
"Occa, if you have a moment, I was wondering if we could talk about some modifications to the ship. Pharian, you too. Although, I'm not sure what order of spells you're able to cast."
"Niko, if I can help, I will. I am definitely not as powerful as Occa or Pharian, but useful suggestions on spell compliments would be welcome."
"Well, Fireball and Lightning are always great spells...although, if you're trying to salvage something from their ship, it's best to aim for the mast and sails rather than the hull. Magic Missiles are great to take out the helmsman. Two good spells are Feather Fall and Protection From Normal Missiles to hamper enemy catapults and ballistaes. Spells that will protect the ship from enemy spells are also good...Wall of Force, the Globe of Minor Invulnerability, Globe of Invulnerability...there are many useful spells, just remember that the initial attacks will normally be out of spell range...catapults and ballistaes have incredible ranges."
"I'll memorize a fly spell or two then. And we'll talk later about additional ways I can help. But, I think I can be very useful in helping protect the ship."
"As for the spells from our more powerful mages, I was hoping to shore up a few weaknesses in any ship."
"Oh, Salaam...another great spell is Part Water right in front of another ship. Ever see what happens when a ship falls 50' stern first and then has the water collapse on top of it?" Niko says with a shudder.
The deal done, you leave the ship with the old watchman still aboard, and row back to the wharf. There, you part ways with Ramage and Hornblower.
"I must go and send word to my men," says Ramage, as he climbs into an awaiting carraige. "We shall meet you back here this evening."
"And I've got to scare up some more men," adds Hornblower, "And a dozen crossbows! I'll meet you back here this evening...and don't forget the money!"
After they have both departed, you are left alone on the wharf. It is midafternoon, and it is very hot.
"Occa, Pharian, could we talk now about those modifications?"
"Folks, I am going to go back and commune with Thoth, are there any questions anyone feels they want answered? And don't forget it has to be phrased in a question for a yes or no answer," Salaam asks the party.
"How about 'Can we sail this ship safely with the present manpower that we have?'" Op Code tells Salaam.
"How about what direction we should sail to intercept the pirates. North? South? East? West?"
"Salaam, perhaps we should find out if any ships have docked at the cove, too. Or actually, let me scry the cove later."
"Geez, how do people LIVE like this?" Gilstrock asks, exasperated, as he wipes sweat off of his brow. "I gotta get out of my armor! Is there a nice cool tavern around here where you can get a cold drink?"
Robert points after Hornblower.
"Looks like he's found one," he says, as you see Niko's friend making for a place called the Dancing Mermaid.
"Well, don't just stand there, Gilstrock. Let's go get a few pints! First rounds on you!" Niko heads to the Dancing Mermaid gleefully.
"Right-o! I mean, what? I mean, oh, OK," Gilstrock says, as he heads towards the tavern.
The rest of you follow Hornblower.
The Dancing Mermaid is a rather scuzzy, rundown-looking tavern, but it is nevertheless much cooler and more comfortable inside than out in the sun. A dozen small tables are scattered about a room, and there is a bar at the back, where a large, rotund bartender polishes glasses with only limited success. In one corner there is a large brawl in progress, with perhaps eight or ten rough-looking sailors gleefully beating the stuffing out of each other, using their heads, fists, feet, tables, chairs, bottles and whatever else falls to hand to accomplish the task.
You see that Hornblower has just jumped into the thick of the fight, yelling at one sailor while he performs dental work on another...with his knuckle drill. It sounds like he is trying to recruit them for the Triton.
"G'day, mates," says the bartender. "Ale for all?"
"Just the people I want to spend a month at sea with," says Pharian.
Gilstrock points at Hornblower as he says to his companions, "Think we should join the press gang?"
"Naaaah!" Niko replies, as he heads toward the bartender, "He's got everything under control."
"A round of ales and give him the bill." Niko says to the bartender, pointing his thumb at Gilstrock.
"Right away, mate!"
The bartender starts drawing ales.
Op Code looks at Gilstrock, "Why? This isn't our fight."
He keeps an eye on the fight though, being ready to jump in if someone tries to attack him.
Darian grins. "Because it might be fun?"
"Be my guest then," Op Code motions at Darian.
Niko takes a large gulp of ale and wipes his mouth on his sleeve "Well, go ahead and jump in if ye like. This happens everyday about this hour."
Niko belches something fierce.
"Me? I'd probably get beaten senseless. If not now, then later. I meant for Gil, it'd be fun."
Niko winks at Darian "Gil? Nah! A landlubber like him...human, no less...probably get his butt kicked around in a place like this! Now, us elves..."
Darian chuckles. "You might be right, but I don't know if I'm willing to try out the experiment. Because if I do make it through this fight, the one tonight I'll not survive."
He throws a glance Jesse's way.
Gilstrock snorts and says, "Naah, I'll stay out of it, 'cause I don't want anybody to seriously get hurt. Besides, we get our fill of headbashing for real nowadays."
Niko nods sagaciously, as he lets another belch rip. He then calls out, "Hey, Horatio...when you're through playing around come over here and get yerself a drink."
"I'll have an ale," says BrightAxe.
"Guys, is this a normal recruitment test for humans?" asks BrightAxe.
Niko asks between gulps of ale "Say, Pharian. Any chance you know Mass Invisibility, Glassteel, or Polymorph Any Object?"
"No," says Pharian. "Try Occa."
Niko looks at the recently quiet arch-mage "Occa?"
"No."
Niko brings up communing again. "If you need more questions, how about if any ships have returned to the pirate's cove? Or if the pirates we're planning to attack have more than one ship."
"Other questions might involve their final destination. I believe several cities were rattled off by Jesse's sword."
Occa suggests another question. "Should we explore the space ship while this ship is getting ready?"
"Where's this space ship you keep talking about?" Niko asks.
"Look up. It is so far up you can't see it...."
Niko looks up and squints at the ceiling. "I guess I'll just have to take your word fer it, laddie. But it begs the question, how are we to get to it?"
"Same way we arrived in this hell hole."
"Ah." Niko replies, "I hope you got those coordinates well memorized...it looks to be a long ways down back to the ground!"
Occa smiles and says, "When I do it, there is no chance of error."
Niko shrugs and adds "In any case, I don't see why not. I can have Lord Ramage oversee the repairs of the Triton while she's in drydock."
After a few moments Horatio steps out of the brawl. His lip is bloodied and he has a nice shiner.
"Hey, Darian," Op Code winks, "Why don't you step into the brawl and take Horatio's place?"
"Me? I bruise easily. Besides, I don't want to hurt our future crew," Darian grins back.
"They'll sign on with ye. They're a good lot o' lads. Now, where's me drink?" asks Hornblower.
Niko nods and slide as an ale down to Horatio. "We'll need one other thing, maps of the area. Any problems?"
"Maps?? Your startin' t'talk like a blasted landlubber, Niko! Y'mean charts!"
"Horatio, do you want those wounds healed?"
"What wounds?"
Occa gives Darian a looks and says, "We have a cleric who can tend to you later. Nice of you to ask Darian."
He then grabs Darian's arm and drags him off for a private conversation.
After a moment he goes back to his ale.
The afternoon passes, and as dinnertime approaches you exit from the tavern.
While you have been in there, Ramage has returned with his men, and they have moved the Triton. She is now tied up to the wharf just ahead of the Wild Cat.
Hornblower, who left the tavern earlier, returns with some papers which he gets Niko to sign. Funds are exchanged, and Niko finds himself the master and owner of the Triton brig, home port Sincity.
You go aboard, and select cabins. The below decks areas are small and cramped, and if you are more than 5'6" tall, you will have to stoop over or else risk hitting your head. There are only two private cabins on the entire ship: the Captain's and first lieutenant's. Ramage has already claimed the latter. Everyone else will have to double up. The crew sleep in several small common rooms in the fo'castle, in hammocks in incredibly cramped conditions. They don't seem to mind.
"I have already made arrangements to take her into dry dock to have her hull scraped, sir," Ramage informs Niko. "She goes in tomorrow morning."
Evening comes on. Once you have your dunnage stowed aboard the Triton, you return to the Dancing Mermaid for dinner. However, the food looks to be rather unappetizing, and so you head back to the Fish and Cake Inn. The fare is much better, here, leaning heavily towards spicy meats and cheesy dishes.
It is nearly dark when you return to the Triton, to spend your first night on the ship. The gang that Hornblower recruited for you has come aboard, and Ramage has them settled in. You can see and hear them all up for'ard, playing the hornpipe, dancing and fighting cheerfully, without a care in the world.
As you stand on the afterdeck, enjoying the coolness of the evening, you see a horse-drawn carraige come carreening up the quay, to stop maybe 50' away from the Triton. The carraige is black, is pulled by four horses, and has several armed men stationed on the running boards on each side, besides the driver up on top.
The carraige has barely screeched to a stop before the doors on the seaward side open, and two more men jump out, carrying a bundle between them. The bundle is man-sized, and it struggles, even though it is thickly bound with rope.
It is also wearing a pair of cement booties.
Without further ado, the two men throw the bundle over the edge of the wharf. It lands in the water with a splash and sinks out of sight.
The men jump back in the carraige, the driver lashes the horses, and it speeds off into the night.
Niko curses and cries out, "Somebody stop those bloody sea devils!" as he tries to dive into the water. However, someone has again tied his shoes together, and so he sort of tumbles into the water with an inglorious ker-plunk, instead. Once in the water, though, he has no more problems, and changes into a manta ray. He quickly tries to rescue the bundle.
"Pharian! Fly me!" Gilstrock cries, his spear at the ready, in his excitement floating a few inches off the deck with his boots of Levitation.
Pharian obliges.
Darian dimension doors fifty feet in front of the carriage and off to the side.
Once there, he magic missiles the rear wheels of the carriage.
Occa dimension doors ahead of the chariot.
"This is going to hurt," he says.
Occa starts to cast passwall in front of the chariot.
As soon as Gilstrock flies, he goes after the retreating carraige calling, "Stop! The sword of vengeance, or somethin', is upon you!"
Salaam activates his winged boots and flies after Gilstrock.
Op Code watches all of this with a keen interest, "I wonder who those guys are?"
"The thieve's guild," replies Ramage, in a low voice, as he watches intently.
Darian's missiles blow the rear wheels off of the carraige, and suddenly it careens out of control...straight for him. He tries to dive to one side...too late, and it is certain that he is doomed to be trampled to death...when a pit opens up right in front of him and the horses and carraige tumble straight into it. You hear the sickening crunch of breaking bones and splintering wood, accompanied by the agonised cries of both horses and men, as they all hit bottom.
You would think that the din would bring out the entire neighbourhood...especially since there were people out on the quay not two minutes ago. However, all is deserted, now.
Gilstrock and Salaam circle over the pit. All that they can see within it in the growing darkness is a tangle of smashed wood, tack and harness, and bodies. The horse are still alive but injured, and whinnying in panic as they struggle. You hear no more cries from the men.
Meanwhile, back by the Triton, Niko surfaces, holding the bundle that was tossed off of the quay. In the water it does not weigh much, but outside it is far more than he can heft. Ramage shouts for some men, and a rope is quickly dropped over the side. Niko ties it around the bundle, and it is rapidly hauled aboard.
It is still struggling feebly.
You cut the ropes free, and pull off a burlap sack. The cement booties will have to wait.
Revealed is a young man, half drowned. He is 5'9" tall, and rather undistinguished-looking...
He vomits up some seawater, and looks around.
Darian breathes a sigh of relief. "Thanks, Occa."
Salaam intones, "Oh great Thoth, please illuminate the area." He casts light into the hole.
He then looks in to see what damage has been done.
You see a tangle of horses and the ruins of the carraige. All of the horses are badly injured, thanks to their fall into the pit.
"We should kill the horses rather than making them suffer. You two want to go down there and silence them?"
"Oof, I hate to kill a good horse," Gilstrock says. He flies down into the pit to inspect the horses. Seeing their sorry condition, he delivers swift and as merciful blows to take them out of their misery.
Darian looks back towards the boat. "Does he live?"
Approaching cautiously, Op Code looks at the man. "Don't worry, we won't harm you. Who are you and why did those men throw you in the water?"
Pharian looks at the man's cement-encased feet and laughs. "He's not going anywhere, OpCode," he says.
Pharian, a skinny, unpleasant-looking man, is on the late side of middle age or the early side of old. He is dressed in the robes of a mage, but wears a sword.
"No kidding," Op Code sneers. "I just wanted to put him at ease. We are strangers after all."
Niko unties his shoelaces, and climbs back aboard.
He pats the man on the back "Aye, easy lad. Deep breaths. When you get a chance, why don't you explain to us your situation."
Niko looks landward to see how the others are making out.
Niko looks to Salaam, "Mind if I borrow your hammer?"
"Please do." Salaam says as he hands over his hammer after he returns from Occa's pit.
Salaam's ice blue eyes reveal a strong face while his bald head tattooed with the symbol of Thoth as well as three red dots on his forehead is the typical look of a priest from Mulhoround. Garbed in dark blue robes, a thin leather girdle surrounds his waist. A pair of matching leather boots with white stitching in the shape of angelic wings adorn his feet. A small rune covered hammer hangs from the belt, and a large adamantite holy symbol hangs from a fine chain from his neck. A small dull gold ring is worn on his left hand, the only jewelry that is evident. A small amulet with an hourglass is attached to his robes by his left breast. He is of average height and a tad below weight, not scrawny looking, but certainly not a solid hunk compared to the others in the party.
Niko begins chipping away at the cement around the young man's feet.
Nikodemus is a tall and burly mature male grey elf. He stands at 5'6" and 117 lbs with silver hair and blue green eyes. His left ear lobe is pierced with a small ruby stud and around his neck hangs a small jade stone hangs on a silver chain. He is dressed in black leather pants, a long sleeved white button down shirt with the sleeves rolled up, and a mottled brown cloak. He bears a tatoo of a sea serpent coiled about his right arm with its head ending on the back of his hand.He also wears high soft black boots and carries on his belt a cutlass sheathed for a left hand draw and short sword sheathed for a right hand draw.
A female comes out carrying what passes for a towel. "Here, you might want this." she says to the newcomer. "My name is Jesse." the woman adds, "What's yours?"
Jesse is a average sized woman with an average build. She has light brown hair and hazel eyes. Her voice is a beautiful alto. She is attractive, but not overpoweringly so.
"Thank you," mumbles the man taking the towel and drying off as much as possible. "My name is Emm." Emm is dressed in a plain shirt and trousers. He exhibits no distinguishing physical characteristics. Light brown hair, brown eyes, a medium-to-slight build, apparently in good health, Emm appears to be an unremarkable man.
Tossing his head in the direction of Sincity, Emm begins to reply to Op Code's query, "I am a sometime resident of this City." But the motion causes another surge of vomiting. Recovering from this fit, he continues, "I make a living hunting and tracking for caravans. I was between jobs, when a group of men came to my residence, brought me to the harbor, and tossed me in. Why you ask? I am still trying to figure it out. Whose responsible you ask? That too I am trying to figure out." After a brief pause, Emm's eyes turn hard, "And when I do figure out who is responsible..." But he does not continue.
Emm looks around, attempts to rise to his feet. "I thank you for rescuing me. I am sorry I have no means to repay you for your kindness." Turning to Lord Ramage, Emm bows deeply, "My Lord."
Ramage nods in a cursory fashion.
"That was a thieve's guild job if ever I saw one," he says with a snort to Emm. "Whether they got the right man...or mistook you for another...only you know. Now, we have placed ourselves in great danger by rescuing you. When their flunkies don't return, they will be out here to find out why. I would not be surprised if the word is travelling back to them even as we speak, as to what has transpired."
Ramage glances over at the dark, deserted, silent street. He then turns to Niko.
"We cannot stay here the night if you want the Triton to see another sunrise. They will move quickly and with great force. We must move the ship out into the harbour...away from the wharf. That will increase our chances a bit. Better yet, we should set sail from Sincity immediately for a safer port and do our repairs there...if the old sails and rigging will hold."
"Does anyone have a count of how many enemies we curently have?" asks BrightAxe cheerfully. He then scurries around aimlessly whistling happily with a smile to the newcomer until someone who knows something about seafaring vessels gives him something productive to do.
"Are we talking individuals or groups?" replies Jesse.
Occa casts detect magic and looks in the pit. Seeing no magic, he disposes of the bodies, horses and carriage with a quick disintegrate aimed at everything below...including the ground. He then releases his passwall to seal them in for good.
Occa then heads back to the ship and goes below deck in search of a decent cabin.
As usual, the skinny grey-haired mage ignores the newcomer.
Darian starts his walk back to the ship. When he arrives he says, "Welcome, stranger. I'm Darian Trist. Glad to help, but it sounds like we've blundered into something that's going to prove inconvenient to our regular jobs."
"Don't suppose you can fix our boat before sunrise?"
Ramage regards Darian.
"The Triton is a SHIP, mister," he says. "As to whether it can be 'fixed', all we need is the captain's word."
Darian looks down at his feet. "Sorry, sir. Ship..."
Op Code laughs at Darian, "Don't worry Ramage. The saltwater must have gotten to his brain."
Ramage turns away and calls two of his men over. After speaking to them in hushed tones, they go over and station themselves by the gangplank.
"Are two going to be enough? We've got enough fighters to lend a hand if your men are needed to make preparations to sail."
"Aye, good idea. I'd rather we used the trained sailors to get us under way, rather than as guards to keep the crew from deserting."
"Robert, Op Code, shall we act as guards? I'd say we can handle any attempted desertions."
Jesse sighs heavily. "It seems that we and thieves guilds do not get along. Wonder why that is. There goes the shopping trip. I'll have to break out some old clothes now."
"Jesse, guess you're going to have to skip shopping this time around. I'll buy you something nice the next chance we get."
"I'll hold you to that, my dear," says Jesse, smiling at Darian.
Darian nods. "Of course. Maybe a pretty dress for dancing?"
Jesse smiles at Darian.
Then to Niko, "Ok captain, where should we go?" she asks in a semi-serious tone.
"Another port!" Niko grumbles.
"I mean, for leaving? What watch schedule do you wish and that sort of thing," replies Jesse.
"Oh, well there are cabins below that you can stow your belongings in, but you'll have to share with the others. As for a watch schedule, while Ramage's men will also be watching, I think you're right that some of us should stand watch as well...especially with this new development. Draw lots or just volunteer, I'll not make any decisions for this group!"
"I'll gladly volunteer my time," Op Code remarks.
"Sirs and madam," Emm addresses those aboard ship, "again, I thank you for the rescue. I do not know what prompted you, but I am thankful. It sounds like you are in some sort of peril. I do not know what help I can be, but I offer my poor services as a token of repayment."
"I hope you are just being polite," says Pharian. "Poor services aren't going to be much use to us."
"I have a few possession hidden in the city that I am eager to retrieve. It will only take an hour or two, if you will give me that time before you depart."
Emm looks about for a reply.
Niko curses to himself ,"...should have minded my own business..."
Darian gives Niko a small grin. "Hey, you ordered us to stop the wagon. We could've just gone after Emm and then we wouldn't have pissed off the thieves' guild."
Regarding Emm, Niko says, "You have one hour and then we sail. A small rowboat will be here to pick you up. You miss that rowboat, you miss the ship. I wouldn't recommend going alone, though."
"Perhaps you should take Occa and Gilstrock. With those two at your side, you can keep away a small army."
Niko turns away from Emm and moves toward Lord Ramage. "Your fear is well founded. As soon as Emm has disembarked, move the Triton to the middle of the harbor. Have the men shore up the sails and rigging as best they can. We set sail in one hour, with or without Emm. I'll inform you of the port when I come back topside."
Niko grumbles and heads to his cabin to check his charts.
Ramage turns and calls for his master.
"Anything I can do to help, Lord Ramage?"
"Guard the gangplank. You and that wandering dwarf," he adds, motioning to Brightaxe.
"Aye, aye, sir!"
"Aye!" exclaims BrightAxe glad he's doing something he's comfortable with. "No one shall get onto this vessel unless they're working on here to the next port," he adds trying to act a little salty.
"I understand a wall is a bulkhead, a door is a hatch, a floor is a deck, a ceiling is an overhead, a window is a porthole, beds are racks, but when we're out at sea and we're moving forward - Starboard is right and port is left. When we pull into port what side are we on?" asks BrightAxe while he hustles on over to the gangplank.
"What can I do to help?" Op Code asks. "I'm not too familiar with seafaring, but I'll try my best."
"I will as well, as long as I have time for training and learning new spells. And, of course, spending time with Jesse."
Ramage and Southwick, his master, start shouting orders to the crew, as Darian, Brightaxe and Op Code move to their guard stations. Almost immediately, the deck is aswarm with men, rushing about making ready to leave port. Emm, freed from his concrete booties, heads down the gangplank to the wharf, on his errand, and disappears into the night. The gig and a rowboat are lowered over the side, and once they are afloat, nine men climb down into them: seven in the gig and two into the rowboat. A rope is secured to the gig from the bows of the ship, and the Triton is cast off from the wharf. The rowboat remains tied to the wharf. The gangplank is raised and secured next, as the men in the gig bend their backs to the oars, and set to towing the brig out into the harbour. The ship is slowly pulled away from land, and a gentle swell rocks her.
The dwarves immediately get seasick.
Meanwhile, Ramage, Southwick and several of his men have pulled the sails out of the sail locker in the bows of the ship. The sails are old, patched and worn, but hopefully will hold...provided the weather stays moderate. They set to shouting more orders to the crew, and the men set to work rigging the sails in preparation for hoisting.
When the Triton has been towed about a half a mile out into the bay, Ramage calls a halt, and a small kedge anchor is dropped. It is dark, the sails are rigged and ready, and it has been an hour since Emm went on his way. Suddenly it is very quiet. Only the sound of water lapping against the hull, and the noises of Gonzo and Brightaxe retching over the side interupt the stillness.
After awhile, you hear the creak of rowlocks, and the rowboat comes out of the gloom. Emm is aboard, having retreived his equipment without incident.
He comes aboard, and the rowboat is hoisted back up into its davits.
Niko returns topside from his cabin.
"We can sail north or south, Captain," Ramage says, as Niko spreads out his charts. To the north, there are no settlements until you come to Greyport, a good 400 miles away. The south is slightly more favourable. A hamlet called Cal Corinva is about 75 miles away. Ramage tells you that it would be possible to take on food and water - you have none of either - there, and perhaps rope and canvas, too, though it is a very poor place. After that, though, there is nothing for many hundreds of miles.
"The Empire of Mestom lies south of Cal Corinva, and it is closed to us...not that there are any ports to speak of, there," says Ramage. "We may be able to get into Casablanca - it is a vassal state of Mestom - but the voyage there would be too much for us without food and water."
It is nearing midnight.
"We have Salaam and Brightaxe to ask their gods for food and water. Might that be enough?"
"Can they feed all 50 or so of us?"
Niko raises an eyebrow. "Brightaxe is a cleric, too? Perhaps the two of them might create enough for the voyage."
Niko smiles. "We shouldn't have too many problems with food and water, as we have those clerics who can help provide us with those supplies."
Niko eyes the tattered sails and rigging. "I just wonder how long those will hold out..."
Niko turns to Salaam ."How much food and water can you create each day?"
"Niko, per spell and I could in optimum conditions, cast approximately 4 per day, would be able to serve around 40 people per day or 13 animals." Salaam answers.
Niko shakes his head ."That's not going to be enough. Hopefully, Brightaxe can also add to yours. Otherwise, we will have to stop at that hamlet."
"We can also fish for food, don't forget," Op Code reminds Niko.
Niko shakes his head ."Well, unless we have dragnets aboard, we're not going to be able to catch that much and make good speed. It might be good as a supplement to your spells, though."
"Niko, is there something wrong with stopping at the hamlet? I mean, Salaam and Brightaxe casting those spells constantly are going to wear them out after a while. Taking on stores and having a chance to patch the sails a bit more might not be a bad idea."
"I have to agree," says BrightAxe between bouts of nausea. "How effective are my spells going to be until I get over this?" he asks pointing at his pale complexion. "We should use spells as a backup resource or for emergencies."
"No need to be so frail, diminutive one," Salaam says as he lays a hand on Brightaxe's shoulder. "Think of your home and the seasickness should fade, or that doesn't work a big meal might., he says with a smile, seeing if the dwarven cleric gets sicker. "It must be Occa's influence, I am gaining his twisted sense of humor in my old age."
Niko reasons, "The only reason to avoid the hamlet would be to save time. I'd like to get the Triton into dry dock as soon as possible to get us chasing those pirates as soon as possible. That's all."
"Ah. Where do you plan on doing that, if I may ask?"
"Casablanca." Niko replies, "It's the least out of the way port where we can dry dock."
"Ah... I believe that you should still stop at that hamlet for supplies. Can't hurt and it'll give some relief to Salaam and Brightaxe."
Niko grins. "I figure with Salaam and his Control Weather spell, we will only have to worry about pirates!"
"And I have some ideas about that, but we should speak in private about that."
Niko nods. "We can talk below in my cabin. Lord Ramage, you have the bridge. Raise anchor and set sail for Casablanca."
"I hope we are allowed in, Captain," Ramage says dubiously. "The officials in that city can be lax, as you know I am sure, but things may have been tightened up now that the Empire is at war."
Niko nods solemnly. "Aye, lad. But I'm a gambling man and luck be with us when we arrive at port."
Niko makes a short prayer to Poseidon and Aerdrie Faenya and scatters gold coins into the water with each prayer.
"I would need to pray to Thoth for it, but it is in the realm of his blessings to grant me such control. Also, I miscalculated on the food and water spell. Thoth would grant me food and water enough for up to 50 people per day. I hope that is enough," Salaam replies.
"Oh, Salaam, also try and pray for either a Part Water or Lower Water spell. Those are very handy spells to have should we face pirates. Hopefully, you or Occa will be carrying Dispel Magic, too!"
Niko does some calculations in his head "Sounds about right. It should be enough each day to feed the crew."
Niko heads below.
Darian follows.
Ramage starts shouting orders, and the men return to work. It is almost midnight, and a last quarter moon is just rising over the distant mountains in the east. This is fortunate for you, as it will provide some illumination as you navigate your way past the other ships in the harbour and out into the Bay of Sin. The wind is out of the southwest...not the
best for sailing west, but better than a headwind. A jib and a topsail are set, and the kedge is hauled up.
Slowly, the Triton gets underway.
You spend the next hour slowly picking your way through the anchored ships in the harbour. Finally, you pass between the breakwaters, and you feel the Pacific swell for the first time.
Brightaxe, who had been starting to feel a bit better, rushes to the stern and starts heaving over the side again, beside Gonzo. Up rushes Occa from his cabin, and he joins them, as do Op Code and Darian.
Ramage sails the brig straight out into the Bay of Sin, close-hauled to the wind. More of the patched and frayed sails are run up.
Once you are comfortably underway, those of you who are not being sick head belowdecks for some sleep.