On the appointed Day, early Spring, the last clouds of winter let fall the burdens of rain, mixed with dowses of hail.

A man in his 30's,  with heavy cloak and clearly an unshaven, months long beard, wearing  leather traveling garb, worn hard leather boots and a short sword, is escorted to the covered statue on the grounds of the Guild of 12 Staffs.

He gives his name, Captain Dedepio (Dee dep E o) Pillarhand, he is here to escort a retainer to Sarkund.

At which time Gwynt Starcaller is introduced and allowed to leave, with the gates of the Guild closing behind the pair without ceremony or fanfare.  Any onlookers on the street would not see the gate open, indeed any one walk out, only when they turn and turn back to the street, would they see just another pair of ordinary men walking with purpose.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:21, Thu 19 Jan 2023.

The third phase of life reflected Starcaller. It was rare for one to even live a single life, but he was on his third and it was a far cry from the boy Demarr, of a noble house from Navostel.

Captain he had said in acknowledgement of his escort, and given a little nod of the head under the hood he wore. This was all he said in the beginning, as thoughts of a boy's life turned into mage and on into a pit of snakes was his past, present and future. It took some consideration and so the only sound he made for now was the click of his staff and tap of  boots.

It took a while for Starcaller to gather his thoughts and plan his arrival to Sarkund, the first chair would know of his school, and would no doubt ask many questions, so this time could be spent building an image for people to view. It took a while, but eventually

"Captain, are you from Sarkund?" he asked, prompting the man to say more.



OOC: a little post, admittedly, but to prompt so back and forth while they travel. Starcaller, is going to glean as much information from his escort as possible.

WIthout hesitation, nor atopping his head from moving and his eyes assessing.

"Yes, Sir.. I was. My father farms a good piece of land just North and West of the Berat River. My older brother, he.. still farms there. I joined the infantry. I have seen and marched over most of the lands of Sarkund in the King's name.

Before this assignment I was Captain of the Storm Marchers.. the 3rd Regiment."

The captain maintains his grip on his sword hilt and often changes directions, however, it seems generally he is guiding the pair to the docks.

Starcaller nodded, but assumed that the gesture was wasted through a heavy cloak and a hood bu the continued the small talk trying to tease out some information about the man. The truth was he knew relatively little about the place, and so speaking with a native, even if he had to do it surreptitiously.

"Captain, that's quite some rank for one born from the fields. I know little of the Storm Marchers, 3rd regiment but know that it is not easy for one to attain rank of captain.

Why did you join? he knew he was asking details about the captain; Pillarhand knew it too but habit and their relative standing would encourage him to respond and perhaps find some wisdom from the local, or indeed something to be used or even someone to call upon in need. The man, after all was relatively self made, officer from farm boy takes a real sort of enthusiasm about killing and soldiering without the external influences of a patron.

Tap tap tap went the wizard, and after he'd finished asking the question Demarr realised that the previous thoughts were that of Starcaller. A habit that had been entrained within him by his Ma... ex-master. Always seek an edge, always look for advantage and always plant the seeds that can fruit into a crop one might reap reward from. "How fitting an analogy..." he thought sardonically analogising his actions with a farmboy.

Demarr actually enjoyed speaking to someone who wasn't a wizard and likely capable of rending his mind into small pieces at a whim. Someone who wasn't a wizard and purposely avoiding him, or speaking under guard. It was a vicarious way of being free, to encourage him to speak freely and openly, even if he still had to guard his own self.

"What else was I going to do? Being a thresher, a straw man or a weed puller?

My Uncle, he put a sword in my hand, taught me to swing it.  Told me the only way to avoid having a spear put in my hands in the field and told to march ahead of the soldiers.. was to be skilled in the blade and beat the Leviers to the punch. He told me my brother would never be taken as he was oldest.

He drilled me, bound my waist and forearms in chains and taught me how to fight. When I was old enough, I told my family and left to join.

Turns out I had a knack for sword-craft. Took to it.  Truth is..

I always felt I was meant for more in life than being a farmer."

The Captain was mindful of the pace, stopping here and there. More than once he looked at his charge, then back to the streets and up at buildings and rooftops.

When ever approached by beggars or street hawkers, he flipped coins away for the former and half pulled his blade for the latter.

Starcaller listend carefully to the man, knowing that one should really only speak rarely. But it was easy to excuse the training in favour of his own style, or at least something else would eventually come to mind to speak. While the conversation wasn't excessive, Demarr enjoyed it.

"Even so." he acknowledged the aversion from second son life of a farmer.

"Well, that perhaps explains why you're now a captain. Natural talent is rare enough, but having the drive and persistence to carve and polish it into something great is even more so." he said, giving the man a long pause to think over his statement before adding.

"And what of the future? Captain is more than a farmer, but I've yet to find a man whose ambition stops easily. Family perhaps" he said gently, adding family as a means to take off to provide a more wholesome outcome to the idea of true ambition.

---

While walking, Starcaller walked with purpose and kept his eyes forward, even if it was in all manner of directions. But he was undeterred by any happenings of the streets and happy to leave Pillarhand to brush away the most adventurous of streetfolk and guide their destination well enough. Though Starcaller was taking mental notes of where they were headed.

True to heart Demarr pushed through, enthusiastic about seeing the water, he thought he could taste of salt in the air and it quickened his heart, solidifying the notion that he was now out in the world and ostensibly master of his own fate. The real adventure had commenced. Starcaller pushed back though <blue> The journey must be used to establish contacts and learn what you can about the court of Sarkland, and its surrounding areas</i> it was true.

The mage would get to work, and adventure, he supposed.

The Captain chuckles, a rough and brief guffaw.

"Yes, Greatness and I... doubt we will ever shake hands. I am raised in rank due only to  spear thrusts, disease and lack of ability to sleep on duty.

But for those.. I still would be wearing second hand, half eaten leathers with wraps for boots."

That last, lost in a trailing voice.

At the mention of family, the Captain is silent.

"One day perhaps.. it seems a man can raise only so far; many things remain out of his reach."

It takes one step after answering, "We are headed to the Wave Splitter, the Captain and first Mate have made all due haste to unload. We are to set sail as soon as your foot hits the deck."

There was perhaps the limit Fair. to the former comment, but then when the chord was struck there was certainly a change of attitude, in some way. Did he imply a family might remain out of reach. Perhaps it was also true, and perhaps he said it himself and believed it.

Even so." he replied at mention of his ship and the captain. "The WAve Splitter",  it was an interesting name and did not leave much subtlety when it came to likely attributes. Due haste, and a fast ship no doubt.

It did make Starcaller wonder, though. There was haste to be made that was for sure, but it wasn't clear why. His apprenteship  could have ended weeks from now. Was he in danger, just from being outside of Aarn? Even outside court, and the machinations of higher politicking, was there threat against magic users, or did the fingernails of the claw extend to a newly ranked Sorcerer that had not even stepped foot to court.

Tell me Captain, are there things happening in Sarkund? Events or such? I don't know many of the celebrations and such of the area. he asked, being conversational, but wondering if the speed was simply down to his presence being made before anything particular.

"You have missed the Full Moon Harvest festival, the River Rowed contest and the Twilight Dance of the Hop Crickets.

As we sail, we both will miss the Starling First Egg Nest festival, the Dog Race around Clovered Hill, the Climb of Giants and the Crushing of Chestnut Rock.  We might return to attend the Ten Pillar stone race or the Ship Bowsprit Carve. I make our chances good we return for the Dance of 12 ropes and the Axe Climb Bonfire."

The pace when turning a street corner and finding a crowded, loud street with as many or more carts than people, cam at the double, until back on course.

The Captain, turned looked back, then returned the pair to the prior street to continue onward.

"Are you prepared for a many weeks aboard ship? Anything you need, I am ordered to see you aboard and then fetch what you require."

The bustle increased, and suddenly Demarr was surrounded by people, more than perhaps he'd ever been before - even when young and in the Hind court. It changed everything and took him a second to adjust. Walk straight, walk with purpose and do not bend for others" he thought. It was easy to see that people wove in between like the flowing of a river. It was quite mesmerising.

But what really distracted was the sea, and the salt and the slightly pungent smell of fish and seaweed intertwined with the filth of the dock. He was off.

My haste has meant that I am packing lightly, so I will need some provisions. good drink , find some wine. good wine or brandy.

I will also common items for travel, a pack, bedding and such, I'd like these in addition to my own clothes.

Bring paper and ink and pen.

Finally, find the finest blade you're able in the time and bring that. Let me see your choice.

he said before adding

"Also, if there are books anything about Sarkland, the sea or sailing, bring them also" then nodded.

"I think you will find the Stewards have provided your quarters with all you request, excepting the blade and the books.

I will make the attempt. Aarn is unknown to me. I am ordered to keep you safe.
Only the Captain knows what our true orders are. He may leave without me, such is his charter."

The sounds of maritime life, bawdy calls, bells, stevedores, flags and sail snapping in the wind. Barrels, bags of grain, ropemakers, old sea dogs stooped and white haired made pegs pit of wood, carved with curved tools.

The pair make their way with no incident and little interest to others. A man with black hair and a old scar done his bare left arm is waiting and whistles a couple of quick notes, then calls out an order.

The Captain leans over and says something to the man, a short conversation is had, then he turns and starts to run back to the city.

"I be First Mate, Osvali. I take you to your cabin, then the Captain would have words with you."

Understood he said in acknowledgement of the Captain's statement about Aarn being unknown. He knew it, but Demarr assumed the man was better in the streets than he.


"Good day Osvali, I'm awaiting some items from the our friend... he said lightly gesturing towards Pillarhand  "...before I go, but if you would lead the way. I look forward to seeing the Wind Splitter from the deck. a gentle compliment of the ship there and then he gestured to the man to proceed.

Truth be told, Demarr wasn't sure what to expect from a cabin but as he walked, he looked at the ship and did his best to appraise the vessel. He looked purposefully and intently, taking note of the wood, length, rigging and all other such features to lock it into his head. He also sought to compare it to the other ships in dock that he was able to see. He didn't rightly know if this ship was of Aarn style, or a different vintage altogether.

While considering this, it became clear just how far the ship had to travel to bring him to Sarkund. Recalling map studies from his younger days, the journey would travel the whole coastline of the League and give opportunity to stop at a number of other city states on the way. An exciting prospect.

The First Mate nods and moves to describe all that is asked of him, seeming to not notice anything but the activity of the crew, who are rigging sails and hoisting small ones here and there.

The tour is short and no member of the crew is introduced.



The room has a giant poster bed, silks, down, heavy cotton blankets, wines, a wardrobe filled with al manner of clothes, much different than a young Demarr could recall of fashion.

A trove of scrolls, loose velum, inks, pens, and sealed letters, bound by silk ribbons.
The smell of incense or.. no... soaps, a white marble bath behind a screen. Silvered goblets, plates, many unidentified object in the moment. Glass wares as Demarr had ever seen. Candy dishes filled, cut and fluted decanted wine bottles, all at attention and waiting to be emptied.

Breads and cheeses each under glass, fruits in glass bowls, pastries that still steamed the glass lids.

Carpets and paintings of beautiful landscapes, an easel with blank canvases behind a series of paintings.

Gold threaded robes, silvered ropes that hung from a ceiling of thin, veiled silk prints of various colors that reflected the colors thrown from covered lanterns of colored glass.

If the first mate said anything, Demarr did not hear it, nor the doors closing behind him.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:52, Sat 21 Jan 2023.

The room hit him like a slap, the ostentatious trappings were something to behold. In that moment he understood some of the love of the Hind that the peoples around Navrostel held for the Hinds. He had wanted for nothing, but in comparison to a temporary room on a ship none of his, nor his family's rooms had been so elaborately appointed.

But he certainly enjoyed the level of attention that had been offered to prepare for his arrival. Demarr looked at the food, and decided to ask the Captain some questions before he tasted it, but instead he ran his hands over things, felt them and just became accustomed to the place he'd spend his majority time over the coming weeks.

After a few moments, he decided that he would change later, and instead speak with the captain first. He assumed, from all stories that once the captain was aware of his presence, and he had been accepted aboard formally, that he would then enjoy the comforts of the Wave Splitter's hospitality.

Dropping his hood, Starcaller walked onto deck and looked around the deck before seeking out the Captain's quarters. He carried no staff to avoid unwanted observation from crew or anyone on the dock.

When Starcaller turned on the contents of his room, opened the door he found the back of the First Mate. Osvali turned, nodded and with a low under slung scoop gesture, motioned the ship's passenger to the right and through doors to the aft decks, past the ship's wheel, down to the main deck, around the cargo hatches and men working there going down and moving crates, to the ship's prow which faced Aarn.

One man stood there, his back to the rest of the ship, he turned as the boots stepped up the stairs to the forward position.

Big oversized heavy coat, dyed black weave, large buckle belt and three layers of shierts, one silk. a place for a weapon, no weapon present. Gloves and boots of hard, beeswax sealed leather, soles of thick treaded anviled leather.

"Capt'n, our... passenger."

With a nod of dismissal, the First Mate moves back turns and leaps down the stairs and starts barking orders and reaching for the nearest truncheon.
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:32, Sun 22 Jan 2023.

"Welcome aboard the Wave splitter. I am Captain Igmar.

We have made all preparations and are ready to make way from Aarn. The tides favor us for the next hour, at that time we set our course out of the docks and out to open seas.

I am told you sent Pillarhand into the city. We leave on the tide, my orders are quite clear.

I expect you to enjoy your quarters and if there is any trouble on our way, I will send the First Mate to you, you are to follow, without delay or material concern, his orders as if they were mine, indeed, the King's, then as if the Skyfather himself commanded you.

Do not think that because the Lord Marshal has assigned you Pillarhand, that he is not also under my command aboard this ship. I had plenty of time to make this point clear to him.

Aye, he is a good man to have with you in a bit of battle, granted, I know his duty is sworn to you. Do not abuse that duty.

Now I understand you have have a meal waiting for you. I expect you to stay below decks until nightfall.

Expect our voyage is a month and more at sea, unless we see battle we are to go straight through with no stops.

May I ask, what is your... experience at sea?"

Pleased to meet you Captain he said in response.

After letting the man speak through his entire list of instructions, Starcaller cocked an eyebrow. It seems there is some fire put under you to make haste on this voyage, captain. Not even a short stop along the way, interesting. he said, pausing a moment to reflect.

He wondered how usual or unusual the situation was when transporting a mage. He would have free reign to do as he wished, he assumed, in Sarkund but supposed that this whole trip would be having them operate in enemy waters, so to speak.

My experience is some, but I am no sailor. he answered ambiguously enough with a short truth. He recalled many years ago being on a ship, perhaps. But at least with this answer he'd have nothing expected of him in operating any form of ship, in any way.

"How likely are we to see battle, or trouble in the waters Captain?

" We sail into the Sea of Storms, past the Dagger Sisters, into some of the most heavily traded waters and to the edge of the Khelvarian Oceans, where monsters the size of three ships roam.

I have seen enough signs of trouble, doom at sea, that this voyage will not be quiet. The wind harpies are agitated, storm-fin and break-fin are chumming up the waters, and you..
no, I am better off not knowing.

I have asked for fair winds, and if we do not see them dill our sails by sundown, it is a sign of displeasure. Embrace the storm, love it or it will be the death of you."

The Captain looks up and to the horizon of the waters.

"If he does not return, it is a blessing upon him."

"Get below Sir, come back when the Sun has left us to the peaceable night."

Starcaller frowned at the idea that there would be trouble but Demarr felt his heart flutter with excitement. The mage's face revealed nothing though.

"Well, at least if not quiet, lets wish for fortune and a good outcome"

he paused again, pressed his weight into his toes and cocked his head slightly. If who does not return?

After the answer he nodded and promptly moved to head back to his room. Once out at sea, he would walk the decks and embrace the sea. He would likely get to experience his first storm at sea too, and this sent simultaneously a chill and shock of excitement.

For now, however, he was to wait in his quarters, meaning he would get some time to continues studies as best he could during the day.

"Time to talk later. Perhaps with some Brandy of Scale Hill."

Demarr had the distinct feeling, that questions would never be answered.

The ship slowly leaned one direction, then another. More shouts form above decks and the ship began to..move.. no, rotate. it moved to point out at sea.

Feet ran on boards of the deck, more movement below decks.

Starcaller had been in his cabin for some time.

Well, it hadn't been the climactic start that he'd envisioned and after some time in the cabin, Demarr had decided to take some of the food and pour himself at least one drink. He stood quite often looking out of the window but eventually gave in and resigned himself to a chair, where he softly began to chant under his breath. They were subtle noises, but rhythmic in some ways.

Since he started, the breathy rhythm of his whispered incantations had been joined by his arms and hands moving into patterns that seemed somehow representative of the sounds he emanated. He was lucky that his movements and incantations could be as soft or extravagant as he wanted because the precise sounds and movements he made were not important. The way he had found magic to work is that it was his own will that shaped extended his mind into the world to change things or affect things. The movements just represented a pnemonic of sorts to help create a focus through which his will could move.

Lost he was in the world of rhythm and motion as his mind crept out into the ship, high up above it in fact. There was always a sense of understanding, but the world wasn't experienced through sight or hearing, instead he could navigate through the world beaconed by the minds that were present. They exuded an energy that bounced from the world around, as they perceived, and it left a changing imprint of their mind's awareness on their surroundings. He looked up to to the highmost mind and let his mind gently slide closer and closer, following the light of the beaconing thoughts.

It was subtle work, and the deep pulsing rhythm from his thought, and the moving of his hands had become gentle and soft, focusing the tendrils of his mind to gently probe and bring a person's mind into clearview.

He was aiming for the man in the crow's nest. He wanted to see what he could see.




OOC:

Will cast "Mindseeking" to identify the mind of the man in the crow's nest

[Private to GM: 08:48, Today: Gwynt Starcaller rolled 24 using 8d6 with rolls of 3,4,2,3,2,4,1,5.
]

[Private to GM: Telepathy -> "read surface thoughts - a high resolution picture of surroundings and current goings on" - undetectable.

09:27, Today: Secret Roll: Gwynt Starcaller rolled 34 using 12d6 with rolls of 1,1,2,1,5,6,4,1,4,2,4,3.  telepathy.

Question: "What is the current state (physical, and general sense) of the environment, sea and people aboard

]


This message was last edited by the player at 08:28, Sun 22 Jan 2023.

There is much activity, the tide is turning, the sea is now ready for any wishing to leave.

The mage Starcaller was satisfied with the outcome, and knew that they would begin the journey soon. He took mental note of the formations of the man's mind, imprinting its characteristics into his own memory so that he could find it once again more easily. Then, with daylight still remaining, he thought it best to start working.

Demarr roamed the room and picked up some of the glassworks, he knew Sarkund was known for such crafts, and if recalling correctly had known his family to house some larger pieces of such work but overall his experience with such craft was limited. It was quite beautiful, if delicate and required a particularly aesthetic eye to fully appreciate. Something he thought perhaps he had not yet developed.




The mage collected some items for writing and note taking and began to prepare his space for some research. Demarr kept an eye out for books or other sources of any information that might be available but it was the sealed letters caught his eye though, and so he moved to inspect
them.


[Private to GM:

If nothing else is going to distract, for the moment he will start research as best he can. At least for a little while until nightfall.


2d6 Mind control; cumulative +1/2 ; max cumulation x8 +3/4; selective +1/4; Area (massive) +1
== 10 Active * 3.5  (35 active points)
/5

== 7pts


I believe research roll is at -3. I also don't know the precise mechanics for research, but at this early stage he could be "contemplating how it might work".

GM EDIT: 01 22 23
Research is not possible aboard ship, there are no materials or protected spaces for Research to occur, not to mention it is hard to concentrate.]
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:37, Mon 23 Jan 2023.

There are 30 Letters, each marked with only one line on each face.

Day 2 at Sea. Through Day 31. 30 Letters with wax seals, those Seals near the impression of the Royal seal of King Gelasius.

Each light, perhaps holding one page. They appear to be pressed paper, thick with cut edges.

There seems no smell attached to them, when held up between candle and eye, they do not allow light through.

When a finger is run over the folded page that is sealed, there seem to be faint impressions.

The study proved to be fruitful, and whether he was too interested in the goings on of the ship, or indeed just enjoying his ability to say I don't feel like it right now Demarr decided against simulating some poor example of study.

Instead he started searching the room a little bit more, he opened himself up to the world of magic, and began to feel his skin tingle as he sought the ebb and flow of the energies. It spiked when he looked at the door of his cabin, where he assumed most men, and their thoughts, to be. But then he attempted to looked out to see if he could identify anything else magic in the vicinity.

His hands wove a pattern into the fabric of magic while his words sent out notes reminiscent of a birdsong that longed to find its partner again. They were small and quiet but helped to resort his mind and sharpen it.



Cast Detect Magic
[Private to GM: 08:08, Today: Secret Roll: Gwynt Starcaller rolled 13 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,4,5.]

The feel of magic was transmitted through the fingers, tactile vibrations indicated the low once the connection was formed, in a synesthetic process, vibrations, resistance, pressure all went to Demarr's awareness and translated into a ordered and understandable image.

In th e cabin the flow of magic intersected with almost all glass objects. The glass magics are pooled and soft, moving like a slow cat in front of a fire.

The letters, here the magic is most concentrated on the seals, then form a most fine net around the letter from the seal.

A thick cloak, with belt inside, here there is a scattering and there are flares, like twinkling stars just woven into the belt notches for the buckle, five in all.

There is a wide and heavy medallion with a heavy gold collar, magic there is in the clasp, with loose floating tendrils that just dance as they move collide and rebound from one another.

The ink is a pool of magic that seems much larger in size than the simple glass container it sits in, larger like a row of books compared to a single page.

Beyond those things, clothes chairs, there is nothing... tucked in a corner, on a ledge at the rear window, facing the sea, there is a tiny statue of a hawk no bigger than a thimble. It appears to be placed with the intention of not being found.
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 07:38, Mon 23 Jan 2023.

An interesting assortment of items, provided by the King and indeed his first seat alchemist mage.

Starcaller moved closer to the glass objects and then he started interacting with them, picking them up, speaking tapping them lightly against things and studying them in a way that might give him a little more insight into the forms of magic found within.

He then repeated this step with all the magic items he found, to attempt to discern what they were for.

The letters were obviously sealed until the day when they were to be opened but maybe they would explain some of the items.

He was particulary interested in the cloak and medallion necklace. Caution first, though. Especially for the little hawk.


As he was looking through the items, one thing became clear to Starcaller. Any mage would know that another mage, especially a sorcerer would be paranoid enough to search  his own room - and one would also assume that all mages could detect magic in some way.

"There is no way that a mage of the first seat in Sarkund could assume that these items, little statue included, would not be found. For one such as us, caution and trust is a thing to be earned and the wise ones who can see the trails of magic would have no issue finding such items.

Therefore, this is likely to be a sincere offering, or a test... he thought to himself.

The examination of the glass items yields clues, then answers.

After they are picked up, or opened, then closed, depending on the item, heat is generated, or cold. The glass cover over pastries, that function is not clear.

All the other items, after simple handling, do not reveal there magical function.
This message had punctuation tweaked by the GM at 08:16, Mon 23 Jan 2023.

Well, life was a long journey of learning new things and being baffled by others, Demarr thought sourly and then decided to let the letters explain.

He poured a glass of wine, and sat on the chair, looking out of the window, specifically at the statue looking out the window and considered the future voyage, and his time at court.

The ship does start to pull away form the dock. Cries go out from mariners and officers alike. Sounds of sails filling, heavy stomping about and bells, lots of bells rung, then silenced.

A knock at Starcaller's door, polite but rapid.

When answered Capt Pillarhand enters. a satchel in one hand and a weapon, sheathed, in the other.

"I am sure the First Mate saw me running down the docks, and yet, he still pulled away and left only a docking rope for me to grab and be hauled up."

He puts down the satchel and presents the sword with both hands out, spread at his waist.

The handle of the sword is leather bound, a cutlass like bell surrounding it, it is long and the scabbard seems to be bound in leathered fish scale, no smell, however, smooth in the down blade direction.

If drawn the blade itself is oiled, and has clean lines, colored a dark bronze.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:47, Mon 23 Jan 2023.

The pulling away of the WaveSplitter set Demarr's sensse of adventure tingling once again. The ever intrepid adventure setting off on a heroic journey. Except it perhaps wasn't quite the same as some of the stories and books in the library made out. Starcaller gave a wry smile at the youthful exuberance of Demarr and the mage shook his head gently to himself.

The knocking took Starcaller away from himself and he answered "Enter" and then smiled at Pillarhand once he entered. When the blade came into view, Starcaller rose to his feet and met with its presentation while listening to the account of his near miss.

Perhaps the sailors disdain a soldier of the army, or indeed another man with the rank of captain on board their pride and joy he said with a small chuckle. Or perhaps they are particularly fastidious about the commands they were given from Sarkund, either way the mishap was perhaps my fault. he offered gently, while taking the blade.

It is fine blade, made with purpose and has a utility that I enjoy. Typical of low born, but capable of doing many profound things.

But, Dedepio. Tell me, what made you choose this blade specifically? How does it compare to your own? Some people say they see the soul of the blade, maybe as a swordsman, you have some of this ability also. he said, gently encouraging the man to speak and reveal his mind to Starcaller. He was encouraging the man to be less guarded, and feel more free to speak while gently suggesting that those born of low birth, like the sword, would be able to achieve great things. An inward grin formed for Starcaller, he'd already planted the seed that a mage of the court could believe that Captain Pillarhand may be capable of achieving more than he currently had and he wished to associate such thoughts and expectations with the mage's requests and designs.

While talking, Starcaller moved around the desk and poured two small glasses of wine. Leaving one on the edge of the table and nodding at it, for Pillarhand to collect - another gentle guidance - while taking a sip of his own.

While listening, however, he could feel his own magic pushing forward towards the bright mind ahead of him. Slowly, subtly moving to guide the feelings of the man to couple positive thoughts, ambitions and the seedling ideas of progress with Starcaller. Nothing forceful, just an increased sense of pride (for helping Staraller, and being thought of well), joy and belief.



Mind control -> enhancing those feelings (+20, undetecable)
[Private to GM: Damn it.]

This message was last edited by the GM at 03:32, Tue 24 Jan 2023.

There is no marked or sharp twinge, just a small.. not twitch, rather just a sensation, like a muscle being slightly stretched, Demarr can not account for this... unitil he looks at his hand and sees the ring.

There is a slight hesitation from the Captain before answering.

"I was the only one I found for sale. I had to find someone who could direct me. I found a... man who said he knew of a seller, he took me down back alleys and knocked on a back door, I bargained from the street and when the price was settled, I assessed the blade, then handed over the coin.

I have no greater story for you.

For my part, I cannot see into objects and divine any purpose. I look at the man holding it, and divine his intent, then skill.

Anything can be a weapon, I count myself as fortunate that the weapons used against me are large and made of metal, used by flesh and bone which I can judge.

My weapon is in my barracks, waiting for my return, this.. (draws and lays out the short sword of bronze) is just a basic blade, light ans swift for defense, does not serve to cutting down more than one man."

Then as almost a trailing thought.

"I think it might be obedience to orders, this ship's Captain strikes me as a shrewd man."
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:05, Tue 24 Jan 2023.

Aye, he's the king of his own ship, and likely wishes to keep it that way. Here it would appear that his word is law Starcaller said in agreement.


"Ah, I was speaking metaphorically, of course. he said, offering the wine and gesturing to some food.

"I really just mean that choices people make can provide deeper insight than one first might realise" he added. "Well, indeed there are many weapons that aren't perhaps as obvious as a sword or axe."


OOC:

I guess this is generally just trying to encourage Pillarhand to open up and generally befriend.

Charm?

The Captain takes up the glass of wine and then selects some items laid out.  He eats and imbibes little in comparison.

"The books I could not find, so I passed an Ink maker's shop and asked, the Lady there brought me to a Scrivener shop and there I found some unclaimed books, histories and a Captain's journal from some place I did not recognize."

The Captain remains standing while eating, placing the wine down so as to not spill.

"Thank you" he said simply. Then after taking another small drink of the wine, Starcaller spoke up agian.

"I will follow the captain's wishes for today, while we leave port and wait until nightfall before visiting the deck. At which point we can reconvene, in the meantime, however I would suggest it best to keep out of too much trouble.

If you do hear anything though, of course, please let me know.

"Of course"

The Captain puts down the plate, leaves the wine and steps out of the cabin and closes the door as he leaves.

There is plenty activity now, lots of thumping of feet and calls of names anmd duties.

The ship is underway.

Hours passed and slowly day became night. When dusk was hitting the horizon, Starcaller decided to make his appearance on the deck. Demarr wanted to view the rest of the ship and really embrace the sensations of being at sea.

A step was followed by a sharp click of hard wood onto the deck. Starcaller held his staff and then moved onto deck. Standing outside the door of his cabin, he looked around and appraised the environment to take in all that he could see.

It was then that he made his way to the helm.

With each step taking Demarr closer to the deck, the noise of work, heavy thumps of objects and wood on the deck became clearer.

Once on the main deck, ropes, pulleys and men wrapping chain around mast were all seen. It was heavy work, all were perspiring and moving under torchlight and lamplight.

Men abov e on the lowest spar moving with bare feet. Men on deck are heaving things form cargo holds; large pieces of notched and darkened timbers.

The First mate, shouting orders, sees Demarr and makes a short series of whistles, as he turns back to manage the work.

Demarr sees Pillarhand working alongside the crew, and working alongside a shorter, hunched over man who is calling out and giving orders.

The timbers and work do not impede Demarr as he turns and climbs the short stairway to the helm.

At the wheel is a sturdy, mariner with a missing tooth or two, who looks up at the sky, then the horizon and then up to the crow's nest. When he sees the one of the pair not the crew, he nods and continues his hands making adjustments to the wheel.

"What is the expected course? What is our the next marker of our travel" Starcaller asked the helmsman

"The Captain has us headed West into the open waters, with a tack to the North. We get out far enough we lose sight of the land and other vessels, then we head South."

Delivered with a nuetral tone, and as simple a description as was possible.

Starcaller nodded at the man's response and asked  "How far before we're likely to run into trouble".

While doing this, he looked out over the deck, and into the sea - there was a weird sense of isolation that he'd never had much chance to experience in his life to that point. Always in Aarn or his family's lands, with an entourage of courtiers and other such incidentals.

Here there was a crew, in sea, seemingly endless in scope and away from any semblance of civilisation. He realised, in this moment, why the captain's hand and word came heavily. Even the slightest doubt from the crew about whose authority was king here could cause chaos. Starcaller had a mind to keep an eye out to take some wisdom out of this situation.

He stood, listening and watching as the world turned dark.

"Tis the Sea of Storms we sail to, we soon come to the edge of the Aarn Still, trouble can come anywhere.  The only one to know sure.. is the Capt'n."

A hint of pride and a tone of caution.

It takes more time, measured by tolling of the ship's bell, then the smooth glass like waters of the Free City of Aarn end and the Sea of Storms greets the newest vessel to come upon her with slaps of waves and the pitching and casting about of her waters of her new toy.

The sense that all control was lost is deep and abiding.

The new weather felt ominous and the air became pregnant with something. If Demarr was reading this in a book, he was sure that it would suggest to something ominous. But, the world was just a little darker, and they moved around more on top of the water. Demarr had to be careful to make sure he could walk without making himself look foolish, so he took extra time. But he owuld stay out for longer

The work continues and soon it does not take a skilled engineer to know what is being built.

Large and complicated engines are being out together and long bronze harpoons are being assembled on the deck and put into racks. Wheels, chains, all manner of cords and ropes, and heavy oiled timbers, being fit together.

Captain Dedepio Pillarhand soon becomes sick and rushes to the side of the ship and sacrifices his last meal and likely a bit more to the sea in order to beg mercy.

Just that act begins a process in Demarr that seems inevitable.

Starcaller stood and watched contraptions being built, but he wasn't sure precisely what they were for. He had some suspicions, whaling being the obvious example that he'd heard of but he had only ever really known such things to be use hand-harpoons. "and by known, you mean have read..." he thought wryly.

"Tell me, what are their purpose? Whaling?" he said gesturing a hand to the helms man as he continued to watch intently.

"Or are they perhaps something for our expected troubles?"

"You speak 'trouble' more th'n any man here.

Aye, the Brunzicor are for feeding the crew. The largest fish are best eating, we sail into tempest-fin and bolder. When heated by.. (makes a sign with a free hand) the spears tickle and smoke the meat. Best meal you ever have, courtesy of the Water dragons and the depths.

Pray the mottled folk are calmed, and not Storm-set."

As he watches, the engines begin to form up, hammered into place are the thick beams, bound are the ropes and chains to wheels and springs. Grooves checked, slides wet down with oils, Bronze rings hammered into place to receive bronze bolts that go into the deck itself. Then come long spears with bronze corkscrew heads.

In time eight engines are spread from prow to stern, with each are wide deep racks of bronze anchored into the engines. A rack holds eight heavy spears.

Starcaller does not see the final steps as his body succumbs to the sea.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:57, Thu 02 Feb 2023.

Starcaller grinned at the man's suggestion that he spoke trouble. The irony was that trouble had been all he'd been spoken to about and all that was to be expected, but he stayed silent anyway and simply nodded.

The mage watched the constructs being built and after a short while moved down onto the deck to get a closer look, he wanted to see precisely how they worked and if he could help it, he would ask some questions about each parts, their names and other such things. Upon reaching the deck, he stopped to the foreman and spoke gently.

Interesting machines, these are. I'll admit I have never seen one in person before... he offered gently, pausing to encourage the man to speak.

When Starcaller makes his approach and speaks to the crew member at his task, the First Mate comes over.

Addressing the passenger directly, "May I speak with you?"

He waves the crew member back to work, as a preface to taking his passenger to one side, just out of earshot.

"The Captain was clear, I am to give you all manner of obedience.

If you have questions concerning the ship, I be happy to speak on them .

If you have questions about the engines, I can send the Ship's carpenter to your cabin when his duties are done.

I thank you to not interfere, delay or inquire any of my crew without asking me first. Savvy?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:21, Fri 03 Feb 2023.

Starcaller grinned, or perhaps smiled and looked at the man. Of course. In that case, send him this evening, if you would be so kind. Also, send Pillarhand in the morning also he said levelly. The mage then turned without another word and headed to the bow.

Demarr spent another half turn (30mins) or so walking along the deck and looking out at the sea. It was mostly flat, and there wasn't much happening other than the crew, all busy. But after what the Helmsman had said about the food, it became apparent that under the water was an entire other world. He could look down and be looking through a thousand other creatures, he had really no way to know yet.

Though he could learn the mind of animals. With the thought, a flicker of excitement sparked inside.

---

Returning to his room, Starcaller laid out some dishes and a bottle of brandy, or something stronger than the usual wine. A lubricant for social activities, in all situations. He then awaited the arrival of the carpenter.

Many bells pass, when there is a knock at the door.

With permission a middle aged man, mariner deep tanned pate and skin, thin eyes, wearing what appear to be freshly washed shirt and trousers with a rope belt, heeled bucked shoes and a series of tattoos and rings in his ears, and hands.

"Ah.. beggin yor pard'n SIr, the First Mate sent me h're to see about quest'ions you m'ght h've, concerning thee enjines.

I be Ship's Carpenter Brenitch"

Starcaller, gestured the man in and then to a seat. "Well met Brenitch. Please sit down" he said before walking over to the table and lifting a pre-poured cup to pass to the man.

"I'm afraid I'm not much for propriety, but because I wish something of you, I can only offer humble things in return. But it is the way I wish to live" he said and then handed the cup to the Carpenter.

Taking his own drink, Starcaller took a sip, leading the man to follow suit, and then reached for the plate of food. Once again, he offered the man his choice and nodded permission with the move.

"I am a curious sort, and while I have some superficial understanding of the machines built on deck, I'm ashamed to say I do not fully understand their workings and hoped you might be able to explain how they work. All the words that Starcaller had used, were purposeful. A little lilt in the tone here and there gave a cadence to his speech that indicated higher authority and the words he used were those of the educated and powerful. While he was endeavouring to make the man feel accepted, and highlighted his treatment as an equal the subtleties of Starcaller's speech would leave no question.

"how did you come to be a carpenter, on a beautiful ship like this no less?" he also asked, conversing with the man, and  encouraging his continued verbosity and giving opportunities for him to fall away from an ingrained usual acquiescence to authority.

All of the conversation began about the carpentry and machines but slowly evolved into chatter about the man's past and current status. How did he fit with the crew, one wondered? How did anyone get into such a life, the mage also asked. What were the good bits, what were the worst?

Starcaller would offer strategic top ups of brandy before moving onto some lighter stuff - every careful not to let the man get drunk, just tipped enough to speak more freely. He would also offer pastries when the man's answer had been particularly informative, or helpful.

It was all a careful orchestration of Starcaller's ultimate goal, which was to get a source of information from the ship both during the journey and perhaps even into the future. Eventually he would test waters with the captain, a phrase that caused him to smirk a little given the context; for now, a carpenter would be fine. The other goal was to start sowing seeds of his own powerbase.

While speaking, the mage connected their minds, and began to gently press a geas into the man. He, once again, was careful to set the parameters.

"The guest on the ship is wise, generous and formidable. He'll treat you well and he's a friend but careful not to displease him" how? It wasn't too important, only the fervour mattered. "This is also secret to all, so keep it under your hat, Savvy?" The gentle mantra to convey three things: firstly, that he was a man who could be confided in, wise, powerful but generous and genteel; secondly, a man whose ability while often hidden, is mighty and powerful beyond measure (OOC: purposely leaving the 'type' of power ommitted, swords master? master spy? one of the gods incarnate? weho knows); and finally that all this information should spoken with the notion that it is secret knowlede.



Cast mind control
no knowledge that he's being controlled,
just a geas/gentle suggestion

It's supposed to synergise with "CHarm" skill, if that matters at all. Charm will set him up to be 'compliant' and willing to do this anyway, priming him if you will, to make the chances of successful spell higher!

Ship's Carpenter Brenitch takes the cup, in a mirrored response to words and the passenger's own. Caution over enthusiasm, a look of relish over relief.

A thick calloused hand reached and at first went for the nearest pastry. As the conversion continued he became bolder with the selection.

Ship's Carpenter Brenitch goes on to lay out the principles of the engines. the use of screws, use of long braided hair, hair of Men and Horse, that served to withstand the tautness of the screws as they pull back.  The relation between bronze chain, the slide and the throwing Brunzicor, long spiked harpoon like spears, the need to adjust many positions, to fire with accuracy. The Function of many different types of wood, Yew, Oak, Cedar, some needing to bend others to absorb force or resist water. The screws, pulleys, springs, counter-weights, all made to tolerances that could not be reproduced on board. Expansion, cold tightness, reset, re-balance, as well distance, elevation and tying of knots to treated hemp rope to the Brunzicor in order to restrict... movement of the target.

Of his own life, he was born on a ship, his father a mariner, his mother a wood worker. Raised in Tornath, found work in the shipyards as a boy collecting shavings and selling them for fire-starts. Worked his way up became apprenticed and then set to sea, and learned as a journeyman and then back to shipyards and worked until he earned his own commission.

Has three wives in different ports, has three sons and two daughters. He had served with the First Mate before, and when the Wave Splitter needed a new adze, he was asked to come aboard.

The crew is a good crew, the Captain runs a tight ship and his marinership is best he has ever seen. The crew all could be First Mates or better on any other ship. The drills ans duties the Captain runs means this crew rarely has to speak, they all know the duties and can read decks and rigging like the back of their hands.

Many times has the ship turned to run as it has to turn and fight.

With a warding hand sign, the Captain has many tricks up his sleeve and none may say what they are, except, we live another day and face beasts few others even know of in tales.

The crew morale is highest he has ever seen, pay is better, the loyalty is second to none. In keeps guarded moments, the crew all have secrets, none ask or answer questions and on leave or tasks aland, there is a menace and tendency to violence that seems.. unnatural. Trouble always finds the crew ashore and strange accidents befall crew on land.

Brenitch, all aboard call him Bren, has suffered a broken leg when avoiding a cat be just tripping, falling wrong-wise on a barrel.

When they arrive at the port of Sarkund, he plans to visit his wife Alacinna, his son Alcanis and daughter Finnac, whom he is going to spend the coin from this trip to pay for a new roof, new beds, linens and a few sets of clothes.

The engines are meant as defenses against the Sea dragons, and other monsters of the Deeps that the mottled folk user like Men use dogs to hunt. Making another sign, lowering his voice, we have the Captain, who knows how to make use of the Unseen craft.

After a little coaxing it appears the Brunzicor can burn with fire that is not quenched by water.

Starcaller listened intently, and at some point his intention of charming the man into subservience was diminished by the real admiration shown for the captain. It was a captivating leader that could keep sailors happy - even if their requirements weren't as grand. Further, as the man spoke, Starcaller's natural interest came into play, the machines were interesting, and he'd heard mention of the mottled folk a number of times now, something he couldn't leave alone.

He guessed folk living in the sea, but all truth told, the sea was a vastly alien place to the mage. Even as a boy he'd never really been exposed to it on his landlocked Duchy.

Through the mental connection, added to to the impetus, Starcaller could feel his own good will bleeding into the connection - a sincerity of sorts that he thought could only really help the spell's effect - but something that worried him for the future. A sorcerer could not have his own feelings and emotions bleed into the control of those he guided - but that was a problem for another time.

Tell me more of the sea dragons and mottled folk. How often have you seen them? What can they do? This is all very fascinating" he said, gently pouring a small top up to the wine.

The carpenter takes what is offered and though he sips, his eyes seem to be taking longer on blinks to open again, his posture is now not as stiff and he relaxes into the overstuffed chair and his face appears to be more flushed.

"Aye, the Sea dragons strike mostly at dusk, they be hungriest then. Few are the times we see the Mottled folk during the open, clear skies of day. Once I saw one skimming just under the currents, riding a thin sea dragon flanked by Pilot fish, it saw me, looked and then dove to the deep. I still can see the trident it carried at its side, flashing in the sunlight.

The Capt'n says naught but evil lurks in the hearts of the Mottled folk, they strike when they h'nger or want to train their monsters to attacks ships. Arrows bounce off their hides, they move in and out of the water so faster catapults are too slow, spears stick in, Aye, but they do naught but raise anger and fury.

It was last spring, the Sun Flight, we found her adrift, no signal flags. We boarded her and the crew... the smell, what the gulls do not get, was all red skin, and swollen body and limbs, fingers and head skin open to the bone, the flesh soft and peeled away. Jelly slide marks going down into the below decks, bodies strewn like straw dolls.

I heard off Vestria way, there was a fat Cog, laden like a pregnant bearess, with two ship o th' Line, they was smashed to the ribs with giant claw marks, spiny and broken teeth of pincers, eye stalks cut off. Giant barnacles stuck to the floating flotsam.

We give offerings to Saaltus, Lord of Ships. Each time we have been set on, we have repulsed the Mottled folk.

With this trip, the Capt'n has promised he has more in store for the sea dwellers that will curse them even laying eyes on the Wave Splitter.

Many of us think the Cpt'n will call on the Deep Fathers, to shield us and make the contract of Acordi diepte."

Worked up now and being on track the carpenter leans closer.

"Where the Capt'n knows of these things, rumor has it he.. encountered something in far off Vornakkia, there he sat with dark priests who talk to strange Gods and tell of many things hidden from Men for so very long.

The cost of answering questions was a task that took him up and around into the sea of Ice castles, there he fought and defeated Men that lay with crude ice apes."

His mouth runs dry and he downs his topped off glass in but a few chugging gulps.
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:45, Mon 06 Feb 2023.

Starcaller acted engaged with the conversation, nodding and promptimg throughout the conversation, asking small questions here and there to encourage further chatter. The truth was, it did entice him and while he was not sure of the truth of it presently, he believed that the man believed himself.

Perhaps the captain had also spun a thread to enhance his own reputation, and that caused a smirk to appear on the mage's face. Unlikely that he was a sorcerer, and if one could endeavour such things without the augmentation of magic, then his own ambitions were perhaps not as skyward as he first thought.

"The deep fathers?" he asked quizzically.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:17, Tue 07 Feb 2023.

The Carpenter is losing his wakefulness, the fine brandy, served selection of tasty treats and a sweet confections.

"The Deep Fathers... yes, they watch long, they rule the Depths for longer than Men have existed, they know the secrets of when the World was made.

Few know how to reach them, or sing the songs. Eurinda conspired with Varidon to make the Leviathan Athika. They stand guard of the Vaults of Kalapradarshani. The Deep Fathers have few peers in the Seep, the battle all that seek dominion of the Cruxir Kingdoms.

These stories we learn from the Holy of the High Faith, those that pass on the stories from the dawn of the First Epoch."

At this point the mariner begins to have years that roll down his cheeks, he tries to hold it back but the pride and yearning to be worthy are impossible to hide.

"The Captain has the truth of it. He has navigated us to this point, and he sees farther than we, we knows more than we, and will take us to the Endless Waters."

The emotion is a swell and the carpenter clearly now has expended all of his staying power and is drained.

Thank you for your time, he said to the carpenter, and then rose to gently guide the man from his chambers. A lot of information had been passed to him and this was something entirely alien to what Starcaller had known.

<aqua>"You are pleasant company, and I hope we can share some stories again soon, but I fear night time is calling you and so I wish not to keep you. Go sleep my friend" he said gently while guiding him from the room.

His mission was complete though, as the man stepped from the room, Starcaller let his mind detach and he had a second start as the cool night air hit his face.

Many new questions arose, though, and it seemed to be beyond the usual domain of court, Aarn  and other such things Demarr was used to. This was a whole new world, and he would indeed explore its depths.

The first day at Sea ends for the Sorcerer of Sarkund.

However the last hours of that day ends, the rocking of the ship in open waters, and the spirits imbibed morning will not


The door first knock is not heard. The second knock series wakes Starcaller.

Capt. Pillarhand voice calls softly.

The cabin is filled with multi colored light, filtering through fine cloths, silky screen and reflecting off glassware and while the shutters are bolted the winds come in and give a slight swirl motion of the light sheets and decorations.

Starcaller woke and then quickly rose from the bed "What is it?"? he asked simply, confused with the light show and his current situation. It took a second to remember he was sailing along the coast of the League in a sea faring vessel, but he did once he staggered to his cloak.

How lovely he thought wryly as the light filtered through the curtains and glass.

Any news or word of anything out of the ordinary?

Through the closed door, a quiet but firm voice.

"The word is prepare. The crew are calm. The Weathervane tells storm in three days, strong winds, cold air from Vestria."

The mage rose, dressed and then headed out onto deck. The sun was glorious and he looked about the ship, to see anything that would draw his attention.


Starcaller noted that on his return to the cabin, he would continue his sorcerous efforts and  gently moving people to be more compliant was tactic he had intended to utilise throughout the voyage. He could probe people to see what was outside the ship, and pull information from them that seemed pertinent. The carpenter had been almost zealous in his deference to the captain, and Starcaller wondered about the rest of the crew, but if he could sway them to feel something similar for him that would be very good. Allies are allies.

---

As the mage walked onto deck, the back of his mind turned over his scheming and strategy for enacting his desires.

Just a gentle swaying, nothing severe, just a small push to captivate the hearts and minds of those around him over a period of time until their fervour for him matched those close to the gods, or at least the captain.

Demarr wrinkled his nose at the plotting of Starcaller but acquiesed when he recalled a father's words to a young boy. "Man and woman, child and horse, they all want to be led. If you lead, they will follow. The only question is that of who is doing the leading. Is it the almighty gods themselves? One's on conscience, ambition, or simply a man with the answers to their question.

This is the secret of leadership, Demarr, be the one who is looked upon when questions arise."

Starcaller was following this advice, to some degree.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:44, Fri 10 Feb 2023.

The Wave Splitter had lept faster overnight.  The sails were full and many more now caught the winds under the watchful eyes and hands of the crew.

The First Mate watched from the Helm, the Helmsman paid attention to the horizon, and the men above, on the spars and in the crow's nest.

The crew were washing down the decks, in the holds arranging supplies and moving ballast.

A few men were sitting on stairs or hatches and crafting rope from hemp, others were practicing at the now fully prepared engines, tending to oiling, and practicing loading  and recovery of the weapon. Then practicing aim by shooting practice bolts at barrels floating out at sea, launched ahead by a sling.

There was music of a sort, a rebec played and a fife was accompaniment, words were sung about all manner of mischief and misbehavior of a maid, her sister and a mariner.

The Captain was not on deck, nor the Carpenter, not Capt Pillarhand.

the Sky was a blazing blue, few scattered thin clouds far on the horizon. The air here was much heavier, laden with the open sea, far different than the Guild air or noises from Aarn.

Some mariners slept on the forecastle in hammocks.

Duties and tasks, all working or sleeping.

Starcaller walked to the helm and nodded at him before turning to the first mate.
"Good morning.

Glad to see we are underway. Any news? he asked conversationally.

"Aye, twas just thinking the very same.

The sea informs, if you have eyes to see, the sea carries messages, if you have ears to hear it it.
The Wave Splitter's pace is at the run.

Best find a hobby and spend your time at it. Journeys turn too lengthy at the asking of questions."

The First Mate is direct and the answers are without wiles.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:28, Fri 10 Feb 2023.

Starcaller nodded, and then took in to the surrounding environment once again.

AFter he'd had his fill of the heavy sea air, he returned to his cabin to continue with his developing project; influence the crew to love him but now he had a second goal - which was to learn more about the deep fathers or the faith that the carpenter had shown that seemed to lie outside of his dogmatic practice.

The hours pass by, the light in morning slowly turns and finds mew objects to reflect off of.

Demarr moves about while his Sorcery expands and locates the minds of various crew, given the criteria it needs, each mind has its own distinct texture, imprint.

Thus the cataloging begins as Demarr moves from one imprint to the next, leaving only impressions of trust and acceptance others should have of Starcaller. The Sorcerous magics make changes to impressions, creating trust where it did not exist.

Now Demarr knows there are 30 minds on board, plus himself and Capt. Pillarhand.
24 Mariners, Capt, 1st Mate, Cook, Carpenter, Surgeon and Weathervane.

The air turns colder and the seas rougher, the ship tacks and moves to capture as it is able.

Capt. Pillarhand comes to the door at midday to inquire of health, any need for a meal?

Hello there, Dedepio

Everything is fine, I'll go walk around the ship soon and get some more fresh air but after that if you bring food enough for two, I'd like to talk more with you.

I should also ask more about your own health; have you found your sea legs yet? Perhaps a question to be answered later he asked with a small chuckle, light in tone.

Before you go, I would ask, if it's no secret what your discussions with the captain were about he did think about qualifying his question further, but instead decided against it.

"Oh and I would ask another small favour of you"

---

By this time the boat was rocking, and he felt the tack come as the boat turned into the wind and then leaned onto its other side. But the journey was getting rough and the cold wind had hit them. Starcaller suspected the weather would get worse but for now everything was okay.

Walking on deck is a challenge to the uninitiated. The balance is difficult to maintain, light spray form waves is all over the deck and the rocking motion is not predictable.

The walk is bracing and his clothes become familiar with a light handshake with the spray,

Back at his cabin Capt. Pillarhand arrives with two trays of prepared meal. Lightly spiced muffins, Stew with plenty of potatoes and root vegetables, a thick dark loaf of black bread, a chowder soup and a series of pickled items, including pickled eggs, a series of fried flat breads.

In a voice of mustered confidence, "I had thought it possible I had on the trip here, clearly I have.. yet to find the balance. Otherwise, my appetite comes and goes."

He sit in expectation of both eating and hearing of what will be asked of him.

Starcaller laughed out loud Well, it takes a while to come to some, it's just the way of it to my knowledge.  he said, then took a moment to pause while he wandered to the drinks area, to get something to accompany the food.

The thing I wished to ask is personal, and perhaps a little out of the ordinary and so I feel that discretion is of particular importance. he gave another moment's pause and then continued

You are a skilled swordsman and I am, simply put, not. I would ask that you spare some time to show me how to wield a weapon to a greater degree. Academic purposes, of course - but one should never cease to learn new things.

Starcaller glanced at the sword that Pillarhand had brougt him and recalled his youth. A spark lighted within him

Roll:

[Private to GM: 07:53, Today: Secret Roll: Gwynt Starcaller rolled 16 using 3d6 with rolls of 4,6,6.  persuasion .

The roll is bad but if i'm honest, I think it should probably still pass, given the context/situation? I would expect he'd have quite a bonus to his role for this circumstance. But I leave it within your judgment ]

There is a notice of the passengers actions and words.

"I of course would lend you any lessons you care to take. The Lord Marshal was very clear...

I cannot say in the time we have it will beat any fruit. We sail for a 30 odd some days and make the port of Sarkund.  After I deliver you to the Lord Marshal, assuming he is pleased.. satisfied, I depart and return to my unit. "

There is more he is not saying, and edits himself by taking a sip of offered wine.

"I am not an instructor of the blade, what I know is only lessons learned in the field.

I am not sure if discrete lessons can be had with in a few miles of the... castle."

Thirty days is better than no days, I would assume. I imagine that mastery of such things would take many years and require to be tempered in combat. I've done some learning, of course, but nothing that has really been tested. So for my part, I think lessons learned in execution would be the best.

He also supposed it would pass a considerable amount of time.

I would like to start immediately though. But before we do, what precisely were the Lord Marshal's instructions and your orders?

The Capt. moved his eyes to one side of the cabin, then another to find things he found some connection with, then back at his charge.

"The Lord Marshall ordered me to the Wave Splitter, where I was to travel to Aarn. In Aarn I was to find the Gates of Obdurant Design, enter and escort a young man waiting back to the ship, without any harm being done to him. That if it took my life to secure that man, then I was to spend it so doing. Then return in all haste, while safeguarding that man.

My instructions were that I was not to ask any questions, except those required to maintain the Man's health and welfare. I was to perform any task put to me and that I was to show deference as if it were the Lord Marshal himself."

Through out the recitation, the Capt. did not hesitate, yet there were points where it seemed he had questions that went without answers. One it was not hard to deduce was; Why me?

"One other thing, I met with a quiet man, he gave me a series of vials and a leather bound trunk whose contents I was to deliver and place here in your cabin in preparation.

I have kept the vials safe in the trunk where I could watch it. I have had less than full faith in this crew at the time I stepped aboard. All I know of the vials is what I was told, they contain a way to combat travel even in the most violent of seas."
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:29, Sun 12 Feb 2023.

Starcaller nodded and then went to the trunk and retrieved a vial, here, take this and drink the next time you feel the sea churning your insides.

I suspect these may have been for me, but so far I have been unhindered by sea sickness.

What I will say Dedepio, is that while we are here, just us two, you may speak freely. I also require that you not reveal any of our conversations to anyone else on the ship, a simple response of "chores and light conversation" will suffice.


The formality of the orders from the Lord Marshal and Pillarhand's recital evoked a similar timbre from Starcaller, and so his response was presented in the same way.

A wry smile then formed on the mage's face and he added But I will surely endeavour as much as you to have us both return to Sarkund without any loss of life, yours or mine.


He offered the vial and then looked directly at the man and asked a question.

"What did your meeting with the Captain entail?

Pillarhand nodded in acceptance, taking the vial.

"Captain Igmar was intent on knowing what I was capable of, what I could do for the Wave Splitter while I was aboard. He needed to know if I could follow orders, to which I replied that I could, unless they interfered with my orders when I came aboard.

When we were joined by the First Mate, the Capt. turned to him and ordered him to murder.
We fought and I was hard pressed to begin, as time passed I got the better of him. The ship was at dock and had we been at sea in water rougher than a duck pond, I think I might have lost.

The Capt ended it, we shook, and I then was allowed free travel amongst the crew.

I find Captain Igmar to be terse and obsessive taskmaster.. yet fair."

Starcaller cocked an eyebrow at Pillarhand's revelation and asked.

Ordered you both to fight, so he could assess your abilities? Presumably to determine whether you'd be an asset to the Wave Splitter in a tough situation.

The shock of Pillarhand's comment hit Demarr with a blow of surprise but he managed to hold it away from any expression. That one would order such things with strangers, unprepared was revealing of the Captain's no-nonsense attitude.

An initiation of sorts after this event, and with your assistance provided to the crew, do you feel more accepted by them? Or perhaps, less likely to be robbed? he asked.


After a short while, and Starcaller taking a drink he then added "Alright, lets begin with the fine art of the blade.

"The Capt. ordered the First Mate to my murder, I fought to preserve my life." Stated as a matter of fact.

"I feel tolerance, not acceptance. Understand this is the first for my travel, never before have I been on a ship, let alone travel to a city that seemed strange and yet .. familiar.

I am no judge of crews or Captains with any other standard than that of a soldier. This crew strikes me  more clannish and secretive, friendly on occasion, but I see calculation in it."

There is stress when he refers to Aarn.

The work of learning the blade begins. Lesson one. Judging distance. Capt. Pillarhand pulls a dagger from his boot, with his charge having the light sword, what follows are drills in stabbing things at different ranges.
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:55, Sun 12 Feb 2023.

That the captain had ordered Pillarhand's murder set off something in Demarr's psyche that pressed the buttons of anger and so some of his efforts would be refocused to understand the captain. He let the comment go for the time being but resolved to solve a mystery.

Starcaller studied with the warrior attentively, with the same dedication he had always shown in learning. He was studious and soon enough he was tired and sweaty. Even with his years of study, he would judge his own physical prowess to be better than most, but still the drills and effort of the bladework taxed him. Such was life, he supposed.


What of Aarn, Dedepio? Why do you faulter at its mention?

There was an... economy of words from the Capt. he spent about an hour correcting, setting up targets, surprise elements in the form of a coat rack tipping or pushing a wardrobe just enough to cause restricted movement, then came corrections, in form, stance and alertness.

At the finish, a sparring amount of praise, it was meant to fulfill his orders, not the work itself.

"eh?, _falter I..

I have never been further than a week's march from Sarkund, I came to Aarn on my first time at sea. I had heard stories as a child about the City of Fortunes, even then I dismissed them as fanciful, almost two thousands of miles West. I have more in common with a Toad than anyone in Aarn.

Yet,, I set foot on the dock, heard nothing but a strange language, odd people arguing, dressed more in colors I knew not than I had known. My orders were clear, and by the time I walked down the dock to put heel to stone, I knew where I was, I knew what store was at a corner, I knew that places to avoid, I knew not the most traveled ways, or the largest avenues, I knew the most direct route I had to take, the one that would take the shortest time, avoiding areas of danger.

It was like I had lived there for some part of my life, some secret map I had that lead me unerringly to the Gates of Obdurant Design. I do not know names of people, but I knew the buildings, the color and shape of pave stones, I knew features like trees, towers, signposts, older things about the city design.

Then when I entered and meet you, it all faded, slowly like walking backwards, those sights receded, returning was like being dropped in a pit maze and having a hood removed from my head. I knew everything so well, I did not mark it... to become lost and confused on how I had even arrived.

It bothers me still."
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:29, Mon 13 Feb 2023.

The tutelage was unorthodox, as far as he could tell, but Demarr felt an exhilaration at its seeming effectiveness. He had no delusions about being any kind of proficient warrior yet, but once he settled into the movements and became familiar with some of the principles, he felt that he was doing well. Of course, then Pillarhand would change the situation by throwing some unknown thing into the fray and once again Demarr would feel foolish for a short while.


Starcaller nodded knowingly and understood that the man was talking about the influence of his master's sorcery.

Well, that is expected. It may well be disconcerting for someone unexpecting of such things. But Aarn is where dreams are made manifest, it is where they are built. one's goals become more material in such places he said, not lying but also not revealing the full truth. Hopefully it would be enough to alleviate his concern, to some degree, without revealing the depths of the power that lay in Aarn.

Now that you have spent some time outside of Sarkund, and have seen more of the world, what have you conludeed thus far?

Just a small.. not twitch, rather just a sensation, like a muscle being slightly stretched, Demarr can not account for this... until he traces that feeling to the ring.

"That is like asking me to judge a fighter with a single thrust of his weapon.

I could say many things and anyone who nods and agrees, would be a fool.

I say, thank the Blue Gods I live in Sarkund, that King Gelasius is generous and rules with a crown that looks more like a cake pan than jeweled relic.

I say I can return to simple decent folk and report Sarkund is more beautiful than all other places I have seen in the Westerlands."

Starcaller once again nodded, and then wiped his brow. He intently looked at the ring for a moment when he felt its sensation pull at him and it seemed to coincide with the exertion he'd already spent and so he felt it best to recover a little.

You are not wrong, judgement from a single instance is prone to error. But, that you feel Sarkund is better than everything you've seen so far makes me feel pleased with my the goals of my travels.

But for now, I think I'm taxed, lets eat and then continue the training later.




[Private to GM: I'm okay for some time to pass or a scene change, as i think for now most of what Starcaller will be doing will be quite repetitive.

- Reading
- Using his magic to push to his goals
- Same for the captain, jsut more tentatively
- Training
]

Three days for the crew to prepare for what the Weathervane calls, "A red beaut of a storm, that has wind like a knife's edge."

All manner of prayers go to Hornbrek, Kilbern, Saaltus and it seems to any Gods that would listen.

Capt. Pillarhand, unseen by any crew or the passenger, takes a vial re-gifted to him and makes a near miraculous recovery and regains an appetite and begins to resemble more his land vitality.

The Capt has everyone working and on decks, shifts are made of every hand, to include Pillarhand.

No time for training in those next four days of storm, which passes and not a single crew member lost or washed overboard. Then comes the celebration of survival for all hands, excepting the passenger. Cook makes blue cakes with white frosting, the Captain shares brandy for the meal.

A blue breasted Storm Hawk lands on the wheel and all the crew make a sign and smile and whisper about the ship being blessed by the Blue Gods.

Days of sail and rigging repair, repairs below deck and the removal of sea water from the holds.

[Private to Gwynt Starcaller: 10 days have passed, what questions does Demarr want answers to?]

Nearly two weeks had passed and Starcaller had endeavoured to push his limits to sway the crew's mind to be predisposed to loving Starcaller, or at least think well of him. When he could take Pillarhand's time, he had opted to conduct more training, but this was really to converse with him and generally develop a better camaraderie with the man. At regular intervals, he had resolved to keep Pillarhand supplied with the vials - but decided to take one for himself also before passing more to the other man.

[Private to GM: Starcaller will drink a vial. Overconfidence overrule paranoia]

---

On the tenth day Starcaller strode out onto deck and approached the first mate. I am here to offer my assistance to the crew, yourseld and captain, for whatever that is worth. I'm not a sailor, and have little experience of such things but am willing to help and do my part whatever that may be.

I would have offered before now, except that I had business and work to attend that could not be delayed.

Starcaller had opted to work beside the men, and perform tasks of a sailor - at least this way he would gain a real understanding of sailing life, even if it was for a short time.

---

One night, Starcaller pushed into the mind of the Captain and created the real dreams. He had pushed to test the limits of his capability and the long voyage had pressed boredom into his mind and enticed him to be al ittle more forceful with his will. In the end, it would all be for a greater good that eventually everyone could see.

[Private to GM: Please understand that he would initially probe a couple of times to see if anything blocked him. If there was some magical/faith based protection he wouldn't do this, at risk of being caught.]

---

Was he awake? It was unclear, but he was standing at the helm of the Wavesplitter. The weather was rough, high winds and sea spray threw itself up to create a permenant haze that resembled fog.

The ship itself rocked in heavy water, and every few seconds a large body of salty ocean swathed across the deck. Barrels had come unstuck and rolled about crashing into the mast and other objects, some even firing off into the sea, never to be seen again. The rain was hard too, it shot like arrows from the sky, lashing hard and cold against any bared skin and soaking all clothes instantly. A quick glance to the side showed the backs of sea creatures breaking the surface, sometimes more exposed and sometimes only revealed in the shadow they left in the wave.

It was a storm, magnificent in its power.


At the bow, however, was a hunched figure, dressed in a heavy cloak, and looking out to the ocean infront of the WaveSplitter. He was unfazed by the rocking of the ship and the water's spray and waves seemed of little concern.

Most notable was an object in the man's hand, a three pronged fork [Private to GM: trident obviously], golden in colour and radiating in a way that cut through the haze left by the spray. It was a beacon in the storm and looking upon it filled the Captain with warmth.

"There are great things happening in the world. Some are known but many are unseen. The direction of this must be guided, and those who seek to direct it to their own ends are positioned.

Some of us have chosen those through which we can speak, and we have selected vessels through which we can act. There are those whose destiny is intertwined with the storm and those who can help guide such vessels.

I ask your help, child, to help guide the one whose fate is woven into upcoming events. Look for signs and support me through him but be careful of those who hear your utterances, or see your actions.

the voice said. It wasn't clear where the voice came from, it seemed to boom through the currents of air that swept around and lased at the Captain's clothing.

A final rock of the ship and then the whole world was underwater, for a moment, before the Captain was jolted awake.

[Private to GM: Okay, so this i swhat I want to do:

-  What are the captain's dogmatic principles? I do not know exactly what they are
-  Presumably Starcaller, who has  walked around a little bit, has noticed (even through pillarhand's reports) a general disposition change of all people onboard, or at least some of them (I appreciate that he may not have had the capacity to do this to 'every' crew member during his time aboard. But he has been quite studious about it)
-  What has been the state of the bird object during his time there? Regular checks
-  What does the vial do?

During 10 days, he will use mind control on the crew to generally increase their disposition towards him and gain familiarity with their minds.

For the Captain,

While asleep he will use Mental illusions:
- +20  (remeber illusion as totally real)
- +30  (character will no longer interact with real environment)

Now for the spell:

- it will portray the man as Saaltus, god of the sea
- the suggestive nature of the illusion is to state that "Saaltus, with potentially some other gods in the panthenon have chosen some vessels through which to enact their will.
- the implication (heavy implicaiton) is that Starcaller is that
- The Captain, to serve the sea god, has been requested to support Starcaller in his efforts - and through it the god.

I write this just so no misunderstanding.

I believe the captain will believe this to be a real 'divine inspiration' of sorts.

He will also use absolutely maximum power to make sure nothing blocks it.




]
This message was last edited by the player at 19:24, Mon 13 Feb 2023.

The changes in Pillarhand's general mood have been remarkably to the brighter side. Amazing what holding down food and not being cut down by the crew for being a helpless kitten, actually that would be an insult to helpless kittens.

When Demarr tries a vial, even given time to go to work, even though Pillarhand saw immediate change, Pillarhand feels none. Indeed through the storm it was rough going.

---

The First Mate, smiles and points crooked finger down to the holds.
"Aye, I have the right job for you, go below find the vinegar and a mop, start at the bow and mop the whole deck."

---

The Dream happens exactly as Starcaller designed it.

---

Telepathy dives deep into the Capt's mind for these answers
-  What are the captain's dogmatic principles? I do not know exactly what they are

The Captain follows a Scarlet, in that he worships Ziandwyrth.
Men must be tested, by other Men, then Nature, then by the Gods, in order to receive the rewards of Faith
TRhe only Men worthy to listen to, are those others follow
A need to talk to the Deep Fathers to learn the secrets of Pelagic Magic

- Given just the few crew members Starcaller has interacted with it seems they are all friendly with him.

- The bird has not moved or changed in any way.

Starcaller smiled while walking around deck and noted the general disposition of the crew had improved. He sauntered more than walked, and after offering to help to be given the task of cleaning, Demarr instantl regretted offering his services. But nevermind, in for a bit and in the whole way, or something to that effect.

I will he said before doing his part.

It wasn't long before he had the mop and bucket and was scrubbing the deck with the mop. It wasn't pleasant work, and not even particularly interesting, but it was better than sitting in a cabin all day, and at least he'd get a good view of the oceans around him. Plus, he'd feel at least a little bit moree part of the crew.

He did, expect, however that this was the lowliest of the work found on a ship - but soon after realised he couldn't really do anything else.

While doing his part on deck, Starcaller whistled to himself, a jaunty type of song with a nice rhythm that set his mop to move. Secretly, Demarr wanted to see if it would catch on.

---

While working, the mage considered his findings about the captain. He followed the red, the laughing god, the madman and one whose luck would shine upon some. It was interesting, but Starcaller felt that it did manifest in the way he had treated Pillarhand.

The attitude was a far cry from The Hind's way of thinking, and even his own master's general attitude to power. It was something that made Demarr dislike the man even more.
He did agree, however, that men needed to be tested.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:40, Thu 16 Feb 2023.

After finishing his work, Demarr kicked himself - remembering the letters that had been offered upon his arrive. He cursed under his breath and made his way into the cabin to begin reading them from the beginning, to the current day.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:59, Thu 16 Feb 2023.

Letter 1

Fine script, Dark Golden ink on stark white, cut edge thick paper fibers.

A letter welcoming 'The newest addition to my court'

A long description of ingredients and the process of making the pastries,
with comments about asking which were favored by the newest addition.

After that is a description of the Berat River, what it looks like, what grows
 on its shores, the winter floods, the fish: Dark-fin, Hood-fin,
Spear-spine, mirror Trout. The the preparation of each of these fish when you arrive.

The letter ends with only a illustration of a tall fluted bottle.

Letter 2

Fine script, Dark Golden ink on stark white, cut edge thick paper fibers.

A description of the lands of Sarkund. Farmlands, the Stalk Hills, the Woolen
Flats, the Thunder Breaks, Hogsskin Forest, the Cheldar Pass, the Bellows, the
 Oven Marches, the Sable Wood, the Tower Oaks, the Mossen Gorge, and
finally a little of the Ulimar Jungle.

Then comes the kinds of grains, berries, nuts, edible flowers, saps and

Demarr sat in his chair, and had read through the first two letters, the first was an interesting one principally dealing with food and preparation. It was strange, but from everything he knew about the King of Sarkund he supposed it did make sense, in some weird way.

The second letter felt more useful, and provided descriptions of the lands around followed by... some herbologist indications about which things can be eaten.

It was bordering obsessive. But Demarr couldn't really turn away the knowledge. He began to commit the plants and animals to memory, and also what they were best used for.

He was well practiced at such things, and so he didn't think it would take too long.

But he also resolved to complete the letters before leaving the cabin again.

Starcaller set to work.

---

Letter 3
Fine script, Dark Golden ink on stark white, cut edge thick paper fibers.

An engaging tour if the Castle grounds, the Sunrise Garden, the Shade Garden,
the Waterfall Garden, the Garden of the High Faith, the Statue Garden, the
Seven Hedge Garden, the Ship Garden, the Hound Garden.

There are discussions on the covered walkways, the stones that are quarried
only from one quarry, how the changes from season to season affect each garden.

The description of the lanterns at night the lenses put in to magnify the
constellations. The testing of gardeners and training them to attend the
gardens.

Letter 4
Fine script, Dark Golden ink on stark white, cut edge thick paper fibers.

The description of his favorite pack of hounds. Their lodgings, their
trainers, the discipline, the lineage of various hounds, their
accomplishments as trackers and fierceness of spirit.

Then comes a description of the various trophies, the Elk, Bear, Moose,
various Deer, Wolves, carrion worms, Giant crabs, Wyverns, Jackelopes,
Giant beetles, Lizards and other beasts at the edge of the Ulimar Jungle.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:38, Sat 18 Feb 2023.

The accounting of all things Sarkund seemed odd to Demarr - but then he didn't really understand the workings of the Hind household at this level, or at least he'd never been exposed to it. So perhaps it was standard practice, of sorts. But, it wouldn't have been sent if there wasn't some expectation of learning it and so Starcaller continued to make mental notes, to aid easy recall.

He continued reading.

---

Letter 5
Fine script, Dark Golden ink on stark white, cut edge thick paper fibers.

Descriptions of various lands where trade and Sea Princes bring goods, foods, animals, objects of art, cloth, rare spices, metals, crafts of all kinds.

From Kingdoms of Mhorec, Tyrandium, Besruhan, Ingushel, the Free City of Tavrosel, the Sirrenic Empire, Velkara, Temirec, Sedrosa, Vashkor, cities of the Vornnalian Gulf. The trade, the coinage, the barter, the languages.

A short story of his kennel of dogs from far off lands he has squired.
Mentioning mistreatment of Dogs is forbidden and id caught mean imprisonment and harsh labor punishment.


Letter 6
Fine script, Dark Golden ink on stark white, cut edge thick paper fibers.

Descriptions of his Festivals, his confessions of following the High Faith , in the embodiment of Caligan. Stories of his Father, meeting dignitaries and negotiating deals that have passed to his son.

Fair and equitable deals make for lasting and lucrative trade and prosperity, that must be shared and paid forward. Then a list of guilds, of which the Guild of Glass is most prominent. After that Guilds of Metals, the Guild of Engineers, the Guild of Carpenters, the Guild of Jewelers, Guild of Moneychangers.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:25, Sun 19 Feb 2023.

Demarr leaned back in his chair and let out a breath, standing up and then walking ovver to pour himself a small drink. There had been a running theme throughout the letters so far.

Nothing, as of yet, had indicated what was expected of Starcaller, if anything, but it was a catalogue of information that would no doubt help him assimilate into the Sarkundy way of life.

At least one thing was apparent. The demeanour of the king was showing through here. Starting with foods and then moving onto trade. He had not seen a whisper of anything related to military endeavours or conflict, or even diplomatic endeavours. Short of his son being provided opportunity to negotiate with some dignitaries, little else had been said.

It painted a picture for Demarr of an independent, self satisfied state that pushed for a thriving economy and comfortable way of life.  To Demarr, for all of the King's supposed failings in his own self-satisfaction, there was some wisdom in that to keep the people happy.

Festivals, feasts and prosperity would keep any folk happy, and no doubt Demarr also.


Who has chosen for me to be here? I wonder Demarr asked himself softly.

During his break, he wandered over to the window where the small bird statue had been present. He looked down at it and spoke. "Do you perhaps take messages? by way of a test, he opened the window in front.

Relay the message: "Your new friend is eagerly looking forward to arrival, and making acquaintance with those with whom he shall be working." it was a careful message, not providing any details of the journey, the mode of transportation, or any names.

He then tapped the bird lightly twice on the head, for no particular reason.



Afterwards, he returned to the letters to finish the remaining. Wondering wryly whether he would get the latest prices on glassware.

During his break, he wandered over to the window where the small bird statue had been present. He looked down at it and spoke. "Do you perhaps take messages? by way of a test, he opened the window in front.

Relay the message: "Your new friend is eagerly looking forward to arrival, and making acquaintance with those with whom he shall be working." it was a careful message, not providing any details of the journey, the mode of transportation, or any names.

He then tapped the bird lightly twice on the head, for no particular reason.

---

There was no reaction, to words, or touch. The little statue of a bird was the same as when Demarr spied on his examination of his cabin.

The stone that the tiny statue is carved from is cool to the touch, not being in the direct light of day. The hawk sculpted into the stone, depicts it's head tucked under the right winf, its eyes closed, as if resting or sleeping.

Starcaller chuckled at the bird's current state, but nodded affectionately, almost as if it was alive - despite that being a proposterous proposition) but it didn't matter.

Starcaller, poured himself another light drink and paced around the room for a moment before sitting to read the rest of the letters.

---

Letter 7
Fine script, Dark Golden ink on stark white, cut edge thick paper fibers.

A description follows of the trade goods on offer and taken in exchange for foreign goods. Raw timber, Glass-works, Wool, cheeses of cow, sheep, goat, various corals, pearls, Fish leathers, medicines, glues, quarried marble blocks for artists, paints, herbaceous plants, bales of homespun, rolls of patterned cloths, dyes, inks, barrels of grains, spring waters of effervesce, hemp, worked timbers from rare elevation Snow pines, mining tools, cold rolled bronze from the Dwarven folk, Antlers, musical instruments made of spruce the Bridal Wood.
Oils for cooking and wood sealing, soaps, ropes of Leomachi hair, Sailcloth, Bronze chain and anchors, various fine tools for drafting and use in crafts made of the finest bronze, pottery, red and dark Berat clay.

These and mentions of poets, musicians and actors who delight th e people with Historical reenactments from around the Westerlands and even from Mhorec and beyond, that perform during festivals and feats.

Letter 8
Fine script, Dark Golden ink on stark white, cut edge thick paper fibers.

An explanation of relations with the other Tornathian City States

Hanoreth, Great Ecclesiarch Dorandar has the constant call for aid. Every year we hear of threats, doom sayings of the looming darkness, the sightings of Necromancy, which never develop into any thing other than stories. My father, and I and likely my son have all heard the stories of the Haunted Lands.
The Histories tell us of terrible and tragic events, yet in all those tears, dozens of years, no monsters or Necromancers have sprung upon us. While the Great Ecclesiarch is a fellow ruler, I think his old age and infirmity are getting the better of him.  I look forward to a messenger any day now bearing the sad news of his passing and who shall replace him.


Tornath, the Captain's Council, 13 of the most cunning, skilled and ruthless mariners know to the Westerlands. Thank the High Faith they are on our side.
It is known that many marauding ships from the East meet their end only shortly after crossing our waters. We of Sarkund are thankful for their vigilance and addition to the cause of safe and beneficial  trade.
Capt. Saluadar Thaenios runs the Sea Pike and while he has six or seven ships under his command, he travels more than any other on the Captains Council, he has visited Sarkund the most and has threatened to steal my Lord Cook and his Captains every time he eats their preparations.


Sarreshar, Prince Rhodas, a sad story. The King and Queen were on a trip down the coast, the King keeping his promise that on their anniversary, he would show his Queen a part of the land she had not seen before. Accompanied by the Commander of his most trusted Cavalry unit, the par disappeared, an investigation revealed no trace of them. The Prince cannot bring himself to rise to the throne until their fate is known. Many believe them to still be alive, perhaps posing as commoners to see the true conditions of their Kingdom, though it has been two years.
I have met the Prince and he is a good man, a little green and thrust into rukership years before he should and without his father to guide him.


Tatha Gorel, Scauromdrax the Magnificent, is a riddle, wrapped in mystery, inside an enigma. I met him once, when traveling to Aarn. The size of it, he does not have wings, yet still, his eyes are larger than my head. I shook his hand or what might be called a clawed palm, it was warm and though firm, it was careful, as if handling a thing of glass. What an appetite. The feast we had, his plates and flatware made to compliment every course, carves live edge Oak, Silver, Gold, Crystal, Bronze, Marble, Jade. He is a lover of citrus and berries
The wines, brought from the cellar, vintages over three hundred years, the mellow warmth and notes of fruit and wood notes I had not thought possible.
Scauromdrax gifted me three bottles, one we will open when you settled.


Celbaria, Queen Eldoris is an uncommon thinker. The Queen has read more books than I had meals in my life. Her knowledge of the Westerlands and as diverse crafts as vintering to carpentry to Silver-smitthing to History to languages. Did you know Queen Eldoris can speak ten and four languages. I think I bested her in only flowers that grew at the Eastern facing summits of the Drakine Mountains, and it was only by one answer. A wonder what her daughter will have learned from her. Yet, still warm, wrote poetry to my Queen on our stay there and left on her pillow. More eager to teach than rule.


Navrostel, King Athanos is a quiet man. Say what you will about his obsession with horses, he keeps good council. The benefits he has due to his nearness to Aarn, is much like our harbors being first for merchants and  trade coming from the East. Of course we have a Navy to support, the burden of watching the sea lanes is great and recognized by few. Due to the Accords signed long ago, Navrostel has granted permission to have Calvary on any road where trade is conducted between all members of the League. I think the only reason we see any trade form Navrostel is to keep certain roads as trade routes so that Calvary can be where it wants.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:36, Mon 20 Feb 2023.

Ah, so here was something more substantial. More trade details followed by an account of all the other kingdoms in the area.

Starcaller read through and made a note to investigate some areas. Firstly, talk of necromancy, dismissed or no was always of interest and so the Mage would think it prudent to have some more information about this. He assumed that the easier route to take would be to simply ask the mages of the Court, but after all his mastar's warnings and instruction, Starcaller felt it would be a failure attempt that would only raise suspicion.

Admittedly, the man had only even taken the word of his master but as his mother used to tell Demarr: Everyone has an agenda. It would be foolish of Starcaller to believe his master also didn't have some overarching goals that involved the manipulation of people. Though, for what reason other to keep mages divided and the purity of each school would anyone wish for mages to keep apart, Starcaller didn't know.

Necromancy.

The missing king and queen was also interesting. Was it two lovers, under pressure, devide to disappear and live a simple life, or were they taken? Starcaller thought it might be interesting to try and find them.

Of other note to Starcaller was their view of Navrostel - a somewhat cynical view.

Finally, Starcaller felt a great pull and draw to meet the queen. He linked the description of her, and thought that it might help him further his own studies.

---

Letter 9
Fine script, Dark Golden ink on stark white, cut edge thick paper fibers.

A description of the troubles with the Ulimar Jungle, named after his Great
Father King Ulimar, who took an interest in all manner of creatures and
resources that could be found there. Giant flowering plants, that lured equally
large insects, sightings of creatures so large, their heads blotted out the sun.
Armored lizards and creatures that lived in rivers and could leap out of still water and drag a horse under without trouble. The Scaled folk seem very different from Drakine, yet, as eager to trap, skin and eat a man as a wolf or bear would.
The heat, sickness, constant attack, lack of food, ill waters, lack of any wealth or trade goods, no language and general savagery, means there can be no benefit to Sarkund. All labor camps and lumber men sent to cut down and burn back the jungle, all have died, returned diseased, mad, lost limbs or talk of jungle spirits that feed on blood.


Letter 10
Fine script, Dark Golden ink on stark white, cut edge thick paper fibers.

Speaks to the Royal family.

King Gelasius writes of his father, King Faendras a wise man who in his time, expanded trade and while miserly frugal with money, he did finance the shipyards and made Sarkund ships second to none. He sponsored many races and contests to find rare and unique prizes from lands far to the East, his greatest prize, bronze scales of a desert dragon.

The King writes of his grandfather King Eindrenis a man of faith, some say High Faith, to th e point where any who sought audience or even came into his presence spoke of aura of holiness, a calmness and surely one who saw more than even a King could see. His Queen had died after visiting Tornath, and he sought prayer and isolation form his grief. After three years, he emerged from retreat and began the work of Kings. He attracted Master craftsmen and made improvements to Sarkund, all its needs and Docks. He ordered felled great God's beard cedars.
At the end of his life he returned to his retreat, Berat Manor and then one day he walked out of the Manor, into the river and was swept away.

There is a description, more descriptive of his Great Father King Ulimar, explorer, adventurer, Wildsman, hunter, tracker. Beyond that he opened trade with the Dwarves, having climbed Mount Shatterhorn in the Ironheart mountains, there he was befriended by Dwarves after he slew a giant Snow Troll, they drank its blood and roasted giant snow ram meat over its bones. Since then Dwarves from Clan Mazrimorg, visit every 27 years.

The Queen Cylathea, a description of her features, grace, kindness interest in butterflies and birds. The Queen often visits the Glass Guilds workshops and other artists and homes of those wounded men of the military. The Queen has taken a special interest in the Medicant trade of Physickers and Barbers.
Nearest to her heart is the good works of those of the High Faith that follow Eurinda. Her special interest is in the making of candles, her design and skill has impressed the Guild Master of the Chandler's Guild.

Prince Hieronidus, the King's first son and heir to Sarkund, a studious, well read serious mind to the point of pestering cleverness. An accomplished rider, swordsman, scholar of politics. No King could be prouder of a son.
Prince Hieronidus has begged to be able to visit and study with the ruler of Tatha Gorel, I think rather I would have him visit Besruhan and study the trade and Mercantiles of the Sea of Mhorec.

Princess Rebecix is his only daughter, at an early age, the Queen had her sent to study in Hanoreth, under the Great Ecclesiarch. There she learned of the High Faith and returned to us as a follower of Faya. So strong is her faith, she asked for a temple to Faya be built in the stormwerks. The Princess has put off suitors and courting until she is sure the Temple is more than just a shambles of stone. That time is now. I have arranged a series of parties and suitors to visit in the late spring. The Queen is beside herself in preparation and planning.

Prince  Vinzeni, youngest son, accomplished rider, hunter. Has heard too many stories of his Great Father Ulimar, has wanted to visit the Jungle, which the Queen has forbidden. According to his Uncle, he keeps a cool head, but is to intent on finding a way to do as he sees right. His Uncle tells me he has a mind for Tactics and strategy. His experience with the 3rd and 5th Regiments of Heavy Cavalry has brought him a certain respect of the veterans.
This message was last edited by the GM at 10:10, Wed 22 Feb 2023.

Demarr read the penultimate letter with a buzz from the ninth one. The jungle, dangerous but interesting. Perhaps it was a treasure of mysteries or other types of people and treasures unknown to Sarkund. Perhaps it wasn't, but it did spark a good half hour of fantasy while Demarr imagined the armoured lizards, and other such things.

Lightly he wondered if he could use magic to perhaps make some of the trees of the jungle edible, or produce some threads that might be useful for other forms of production. Such enhancements would really work to enhance Sarkund's position amongst the other city kingdoms.

Starcaller observed however that there was a balance between the kingdoms, in the same way as between courtiers. Any one pulling too far ahead of the others may well be seen as a threat, and dealt with directly; military versus intrigue.

Demarr frowned at the awful thought and then shrugged all thoughts of such things off, as the curse of power.


The tenth letter actually included some other details about the king's family. It sounded interesting. Interestingly, Demarr, considered that some of the descriptions of King Galasius's children could have been applied to his own family.

The daughter, seemingly of strong faith may well be immune to his own magics, or at least resistant, and so his endearment to her would require good old fashioned charm. But Demarr considered some ways he could help the queen and her daughter prepare for courting. Few people in the land were more able than Starcaller to understand the true motivations of people and their inclinations and proclivities. The thoughts led him onto another train of thought, he could ensure those around the court were non-hostile, or even totally subservient to the king.

Though the revelation of such powers was perhaps dangerous.

Demarr finally reflected on the youngest son. Vinzeni. Perhaps he was Demarr in another life. They did sound alike. Demarr grinned with a sageness that was unearned in 'aged wisdom'.

---

Overall the talk of greatest fleets and ships exhilerated Demarr. Despite the journey ostensibly being monotonous, the mage had truly enjoyed his time. Even working as a sailor had given him some meaning that was quite alien to the highborn sorcerer. With the crew having been grown to like him, he also felt a comderaderie, however small, that had been absent from his life.

It struck the young man as to how absent his master had been. Or at least in any manner that would be considered paternal or indeed invested in his future in a strong way.  Perhaps the master sorcerer was required to train a certain number of students every year - but how would they even know that Demarr was a sorcerer? He had thought about such questions a lot, wanting a real and true understanding of magic, not just the superficial mechanism to alter the world to one's will.

He knew there were schools, and each had their own strengths and weaknesses but fundamentally all mages could cast spells and craft magical energies to their own will. Most  seemed to simply settle into their strength and focus on that. It made Starcaller wonder more: was his master of making plants grow? Or firing lightning from his hands? The answer sat uncertain in the back of the mage's mind - he doubted it.

Stacaller would unravel the secrets of magic, and explore its real limitations.

There was no letter remaining, but as it was this day's letter Stacaller opted to move back to the deck and see what else he could help with.

He stood up, stretched his legs and then walked out to the deck. A deep breath of fresh air filled his lungs and he looked out across the ship and looked for Pillarhand. He wanted another sword lesson. Upon noticing him, Starcaller walked to the man and asked a moment of his time.

Pillarhand, I would appreciate that you spend some more time with me today and continue the tutelage. I will help with the ship's work today, but afterwards will be fine. If you wish to leave earlier, then I will be available. he was purposely ambiguous about the nature of the tutoring so that any overhearing folk would not know what precisely was involved.

After that, Starcaller walked to the first-mate with a wide and easy smile Have you another task that I may be able to help with?

While glancing out at the sea, and looking around the ship Demarr noted the lack of birds currently. Then a thought crossed his mind. The bird, the glassware, the paintings and canvases and perahsp indeed the golden robe and other accoutrements. Perhaps these had been provided by the queen, whose interests aligned with the objects in his room.

"The bird... might be for her" he said outloud, musing to himself. Perhaps indeded she had instructed the alchemist to provide magical things for him.

Once returning to his cabin, he would don the robe, investigate the bird, and then ddo his best to paint something interesting. Perhaps one of the sunset scenes he'd seen over the course of the journey.

Pillarhand is working with ropes and handing them to mariners who actually know what tjhey are doing, when addressed he turns while still handing up new rope.

Pillarhand nods in non-verbal agreement.

"Tis the decks and vinegar again today swabbie. Apparently the sea has seen fit in the last day to continue to put salty waters on our decks and all of our brass  and fittings.

Show me your hands. Well they seem fit, start at the stern and move forward, when you finish, see to the polish and the brass. When that is done you may retire for the day.

Answer me this first, can you tie me a half Witched wave knot, then be about your work."

---

Hands a little sore, salt scrubbed from the work, his fingers tremble on occasion.

There are paints, and brushes inside a secure padded wood case. Investigation of the tiny falcon
statue reveals nothing new, it is the same as last he saw it little tucked head.

There are three canvas' in the back of the wardrobe. The application of paint goes about as well as Demarr thought it would go.

---

Later Pillarhand knocks on the door, waits to be admitted. When he enters and greets the passenger, there is a certain period of time for conversation, before they start.

Once started lessons in distance, timing, stance, and position of the weapon. This time Pillarhand has brought belaying pins, one in each of his hands, for... correction.

The tight quarters of the cabin add to the tension of the lessons, should small sharper weapons be employed.

Swabbie, the only time in his life he'd been called such. But he supposed it was the way of things on the sea.

At the request to tie a knot Starcaller did his best to tie something of a knot but probably only managed the most basic one. "Show me..." he said after his first attempt, but before he got to work.

The day was arduous, but he was doing something else worthwhile also. It was a menial job but it had to be done and gave another sense of appreciation for the life at sea and indeed the requirements of sailing. Perhaps not much, but it helped a little, at least.

He did all of the work diligently.

---

His painting efforts were not great. Ironically, for someone who had mastered (to some degree) the workings of the mind, he was fairly poor at transferring his mental image - clear as it was - to a canvas.

Reflection had Demarr frowning and thinking that the problem must come through the transition of thought down his arm. For all things that Demarr did not lack, creativity was perhaps somewhere near the top.

Being bad at his task, however, frustrated Demarr a little.

He picked up the bird from the window and put it on his desk looking at it thoughtfully.

He then took the medallion and placed it around his neck. AT this stage he had become much less paranoid.

---

The training with Pillarhand went well and the tutelage was rough, but actually quite enjoyable.

During the practices Starcaller asked

What do you think about returning to your company after this mission? it came out somewhat breathlessly.

Throughout the training and onto the end he asked additional questions.

Thoughts on the lord marshall?


He then also finally asked, after sitting down and pouring them both some drink, and pssing some of the foots over to Pillarhand

Would you consider tutoring me further once the mission is over, if I were to arrange a chance of your circumstances?

The First Mate takes the rope length and slowly turns it, makes a loop, pulls and shows the tail.

After his swabbie can duplicate the knot in three tries, he is allowed to go about his duties.

Starcaller begins to see his hands change, the vinegar, the mop, blisters are beginning to form.

---

The medallion is cool to the skin, skin which is turning red where exposed to the sun, his face, now in the cool cabin, radiates heat. The tiny statue is still as it was sitting on his desk.

---

Pillarhand answers with a certain amount of hesitation.

"It will be good to see and be with my fellows again. While life at sea does not agree with me. Again, my thanks for the potions, my life is in the infantry, being with good, honest simple folk, men I know have my back."

Then comes the question about the Lord Marshal.

"My thoughts are, he is the Lord Marshal, sees more than I do, I imagine he would want me back to duty as soon as possible."

With the last question, after taking some offered bits of meat and bread.

"I can't say I would be much good to you. I am not an instructor of fencing or swordplay.
My methods are not for the court or for displays in gardens or against young Nobles.

My place is on the roads, in the villages and hamlets protecting the simple folk.

I mean to say, it would be an honor, there are far better men for that job than me, and they would be.. comfortable around the castle."

Pillarhand rushed the
se last words, and reached for something to drink.
This message was last edited by the GM at 19:43, Thu 23 Feb 2023.

Blisters, everywhere on his hands. It wasn't the first time, in reality but it was irritating no less than the previous times he had them. As he recalled, and perhaps embarassingly, the last time he had blisters was a few years ago in the Sorcery library when he'd been burning the candle at both ends to learn as much as he could about previous sorcerers and some histories of magic. A dedicated student he thought wryly.

Calloused hands were working man's hands and despite it perhaps being out of vogue for one of the court and high society Demarr had always beleived that rough hands belonged to those who got things done, and so he felt a small sense of pride in the evolution of his own form.

He was also getting sunburned. Again, another sign of people who worked out doors. Sailors, soldiers, merchants, travellers and outoorsmen always had a golden hue of the sun from their skin - and usually contrasted apparently to those who spent more time in doors.

Starcaller took some time to look through the contents of the room for anything that might resemble salve or care for the skin - he also spent time looking at how the sun affected pillarhand, and wondered if some of the vials he'd been given helped with such things.

The medallion was nice against his skin, but currently he didn't know its purpose.

---

Starcaller grinned at Pillarhand's reaction and nodded I , court is not the most pleasant place, especially for straight folk who prefer direct and talk that is not wrapped in guile or meandering sub-meanings.

It is why I would prefer someone of your demeanour. My purpose for learning swordplay and fighting is not so that I can prance with other nobles in flashy displays, but to make sure that should the unlikely situation occur where my life, or those I am to protect, is challenged then I will have as many tools at my disposal.

he chuckled again I also understand your reticence to be around the castle. he said and then paused a moment to take a bite, giving Pillarhand opportunity to say something.



After a short while, Starcaller acted purposefully reticent, and then eventually made it look like he'd come to a conclusive decision.

I'll be frank Captain, it is no secret that I am new to Sarkund and it is no secret that there are false people in any court. It is therefore wise for all people to make allies and friends of those that can be trusted.

It seems to me that a man with no desire to be captured within the walls of court would be somewhat immune to such things. This is partly the reason I would prefer your instruction over a court sword instructor. Secrecy is also quite important to me.

he let the thought percolate a moment while pouring another drink. He worked the bottle with a casual and practiced effort and was reminded of his younger times where his tenacity and frankness had always paid off to win people over.

I wish to make friends of good people, at least so I can better understand Sarkund, its people and even aspects of its industries and organisations. Most importantly, I want to be able to ask people straight, and have straight answers back that are untainted by the honeyed tongues of court.

I would ask it of you - but would also respect a decision to avoid such things, so the final decision is yours to make. But before you do, answer me one question:

Did anyone request you to make any observations or collect information about me that was to be relayed to someone?

He paused a moment, and leaned back into his chair, casually observing the man and his response. It was slightly unfair for Starcaller to make such requests of a man that shunned all subterfuge and intrigue, but it was also true that those types of people would be capable of providing the best, untainted information and perhaps followed a code that was less malleable by opportunists of court.

Starcaller had let the implication that the relationship would be reciprocal; it was, after all, useful to have powerful allies. He did avoid being so vulgar as to express the notion explicitly, however.


[Private to GM: Made a roll: Persuasion (if that's the correct one). I think it may also be worth adding in an additional role for CHARM here, because ultimately Starcaller really is purposefully complimenting Pillarhand, as a "straight man" who isn't a court fop. "He gets stuff done" and that is commedable.


22:17, Today: Secret Roll: Gwynt Starcaller rolled 11 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,5,3.  EGO.

]
This message was last edited by the player at 22:18, Thu 23 Feb 2023.

"No."

there is a moment where the Capt take a sip and eats some.

"You are asking a man you have barely met and talked to for an hour, to sever his ties and change his life into something completely unknown. I know nothing about you, and I am not a lap dog."

A twitch of annoyance from Demare but Starcaller quickly took its place.

No. He said, pausing a moment. Perhaps you're right. Then we continue as planned.

Demarr continued some conversation with Pillarhand for a short while after their exchange, and seeking to ask about more innocuous things, about Sarkund and the duties he does have in his unit. Eventually, he dismissed Pillarhand.

---

Afterwards, Starcaller intended to learn what Pillarhand was hiding, and so he decided that after having some rest he would take the information he sought.

What are the parameters of your orders related to me? he formed a thought in mind that would pull answers he sought. While resting, the mage felt the thought coalesce into a solid thought that he would use to take the information.

A small gesture and word,  helped focus the mind for Starcaller to reach out... He had time, to sit and delve into the soldier's mind.


[Private to GM: Starcaller will use mindscan to find Pillarhand, and then ask the question from the post to get the information that Pillarhand is hiding. His target for the spell will be enough to ensure he's not detected, and guarantee success., Ego +20 (undetected) +20 (pull memories) Ego +20 to ensure, +10 to be safe of success. So aim for 70]
This message was last edited by the player at 22:48, Thu 23 Feb 2023.

The Capt. accepts the passenger's answer and answers his other questions.

His answers about Sarkund all from a common man life, his duties concerning his unit is training, marching, checking on various outlying communities and solving problems with labor of his unit or any materials he has like carts, wheel, spare axles, spare mules.

---

With Telepathy the question: What are the parameters of your orders related to me?

The Lord Marshal ordered that

Do not reveal any of what you are ordered to do, speak only of the Lord Marshal.

the passenger is to be observed for reaction to and reported back on:

Seasickness, offered potion. Watch reaction to Potion
Hobbies or interests
Reaction to the officers of the ship.
Practices of the High Faith.
Reaction to all the comforts and provisions placed in his cabin
Foods/meals favored or disfavored.
Any references to his past or references to places, people he has known

Place these items in his cabin, this Falcon statue where it is not likely to be found.

Do not ask questions
Do as he requests.

Demarr danced in the mind of Pillarhand, and frowned at the notion that he was indeed to be spied upon. Some of the questions were innocuous enough, but some set some alarm bells for the young mage. Indeed, as he wanderd through the plane of the mental, Demarr could hear his master's warning become more crystalline in its memory.

Food and meals. That was an innocuous question. But about his reaction to potions, officers and his background, now this was something else entirely. Genuine curiosity perhaps, but it felt more like leverage to Starcaller.


Starcaller, annoyed by his ostentatious welcome being marred with the efforts of some at court to already reveal things that shouldn't be revealed, pushed deeper into the man's mind, resolved to take any advantage he can.

"Who gave you the order?" was his first. Starcaller felt areas of the man's psyche form into tangible things he could extract, directed by his own presence.

"What are the charcteristics, physical, behavioural, and social of. The king, the queen, the lord marshal, and any people of high standing at court; including the person who gave the order.

And finally. What is your understanding of the reputation of these individuals, from direct experience or more secret hearsay

"Who gave you the order?"

Queen Cylathea

"What are the charcteristics, physical, behavioural, and social of. The king, the queen, the lord marshal, and any people of high standing at court; including the person who gave the order."

They all have the best interests of the Kingdom at heart, thye seem smart, they seem to be be washed and clean and well fed.

What is your understanding of the reputation of these individuals, from direct experience or more secret hearsay

That as Nobles and Royals they bear the weight of the welfare and safety of all their subjects, that tough decisions have to be made, yet they share the products of farming, trade with all they can reach. The military having the longest reach.

The final question Starcaller wanted the answer to was. What does the queen, the lord marshall, the king and their children look like


After he got the answer to this, Starcaller backed out of the mind of Pillarhand, satisfied with his new understanding. The Queen asked.

It did lead to more questions and Starcaller had to contemplate the answers. Was Pillarhand the queen's man, more than just a subject? Or was he just a loyal solder? the latter seemed more likely. The first seat mage had obviously provided the items for Starcaller, and the nature thereof was known to the queen but it was not clear whether the mage was also part of this information gathering.

Fundamentally, the truth was this: The Queen wanted information about the man, some of it was innocuous - perhaps she wanted to know the type of upbringing Starcaller had and perhaps some was leverage. But now that it was revealed it was indeed the Queen requesting the information Starcaller felt that it could well have been genuine curiosity.

Like it or not, Starcaller was bound by the request and wishes of the queen.

He sat up and chuckled at a thought he had.

[Private to GM: 08:50, Today: Secret Roll: Gwynt Starcaller rolled 7 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,2,2.  deduction.]
This message was last edited by the player at 08:57, Fri 24 Feb 2023.

What does the queen, the lord marshall, the king and their children look like

A description of each is provided, the description is rather undetailed of the King, Lord Marshal  and the children.

Starcaller rested the remainder of the night, careful not to tax himself too much but now that he knew the nature of Pillarhand's mission, he realised he had perhaps been too eager to win people over. Mentally, he chastised hismelf for being somewhat foolish and young minded on the  phase of his life. Wisdom would come, Demarr was re-assured, but it had to be earned through experience and at not too high a cost.

It was true that the mage would need to assemble a group of people who would become loyal to him and it was only he in the whole land of Sarkund, perhaps, that could command loyalty beyond any doubt. At least the Mage Gwynt Starcaller could make a spy of any person, and that was to his advantge. All such considerations were also likely to be a part of the Court's mind right now.

"Who Is Gwynt Starcaller?" some of them would be asking undoubtedly.

It made him look at the ceiling of his cabin and recount everything he may have revealed over the past ten days.

He was not seasick, that revealed nothing other than that he could have been familiar with the seas - though Starcaller's attempts at helping the cruew had settled any debate about that. He was no sailor.

Hobbies and interests. Books and swords. An interest in Sarkund also. Meaning that they would know he wasn't from the area. Starcaller's lack of sword skill and request for tutelage also revealed his lack of ability and weakness, but at least reflected a genuine interest. It also suggested that Starcaller felt that he would need to defend himself at some point, and that perhaps his magic would not be sufficient to help. This would not do.

Reaction to officers: it certainly had not been acquiescent but there was a healthy respect for the Captain's sovereignty that Starcaller had shown. Could it reveal his high birth? Would it do a better job than his accent?

Regarding comfort and preferences about food and such. The mage had shown no fear of discomfort, nor had he displayed any proclivity for particular food or drink.

The thought caught Demarr off-guard, and he realised that he had never truly formed preferences for foods or drinks, nor had he ever shunned or coveted comfort. He ate what was given him, drank what he needed and simply suffered when needed to achieve his goals.

The final question was about Starcaller's origins. A family that could be leveraged against him, and something the mage would never allow. Despite warnings from the master, Demarr had made contact with his brother and kept their relationship a secret. Was the queen just curious, or did she want leverage? Either way, she would not know; queen or no.

---

As Starcaller recounted himself, and then tried to sleep, his mind was racing at the prospect of all that was revealed. He couldn't sleep until he had fixed a small problem.

He closed his eyes and reached out to the mind of Pillarhand and rectified

When you are asked by anybody (except Starcaller) about the nature of the tutelage with acquired sword, you will answer that it was purely curiosity (of Starcaller) to determine if there was any significant differences between the styles of Sarkund and Aarn; and that Starcaller's proficienty was quite good, albeit reluctantly displayed. The reasons for it was to gain familiarity with Pillarhand, and pass some time with engaged activity.


[Private to GM: I tried to be as precise as possible with the spell's instruction.

- tutoring did happen
- it was mostly general and light curiosity about stylistic differences
- Starcaller has good ability with a blade ( I really know that this is somehow going to bite me in the ass)
- The sword was bought for this purpose.


I really want to convey that the tutoring he asked, wasn't really for "learning how to use a blade" or that "starcaller was bad" but more something that would be used as a tool to befriend pillarhand and graciously give the soldier something he could do without worry etc.

This spell will be cast at  power (150) to deter any dispel attempts and remove a chance for breakinout.

]
This message was last edited by the player at 09:21, Sat 25 Feb 2023.

The following day Starcaller woke, sleeping perhaps a little longer than normal to ensure he was rested enough to function.

He had resolved to complete a number of tasks over the next days, and would perform them diligently.







1) Read letter each day
2) He will paint a second painting, taking many days to perfect the image as much as possible.  (Extra time) and use everything he can of the equipment he's been provided (presumably good quality). This image will be of the bird represented in the statue.

3) He will use his magical sense, to discern all of the magical items in the room (all categories at least).

4) He will write a letter to the Lord Marsal, that he will hand to Pillarhand, thanking him for the escort back to Sarkund, indicating his attitude, behaviour and sense of duty were exemplary.  [Private to GM: I can write this out fully, if necessary]

5) Starcaller will write an account of his journey, thoughts feelings and observations of the journey from Aarn to Sarkund (updating at the end of each day). Written to offer it to the Queen, king or first seat mage should they request it. It will be a complete account, but not reveal his own activities. [Private to GM: I can write this too]

5) He will continue to offer himself for duty shifts when he has any extra time available.

He will also be careful not to overwork himself with magic.

Letter 11
Fine script, grass green ink on stark white, rough edge, thin paper fibers.

From the Queen, opens speaking to the reader.

This letter should find you out at sea, eleven days from Aarn. I wonder how you
health is holding up, what you are doing when you are reading this letter.

What follows next is a description of Rooms and facilities that have been made
available.  The apartment has four rooms, Bedroom, Library, Sitting room and
Servant/kitchen. The rooms are described in lighting shades, angles and position
of lanterns and candelabrum placement. A new tower is being constructed, it
will be done in about two decades.

Description of furniture provided.

After that a discussion of what measurements will be needed for clothes you will
need. The library has been stock with new bound books for journals and writings,
any books you would like will be ordered.

The letter ends with a small picture of a falcon, statue, with a head looking forwards, raised, eyes open.

---

After the letter is read there is a small chirp sound from somewhere in the cabin.

Demarr heard the chrip, and his eyes went wide, with some slight delight. He laughed out loud and inwardly chided Starcaller for his paranoia. He did wish it to be so innocuous, but somehow Starcaller held ground.

Starcaller rose, and headed to the place he heard the chirp, to look for the statue. He didn't know whether it would still be a statue, or have transferred into a real bird but he sought to bring it to the desk while he penned a response to the Queen. In the back of his mind, Demarr, imagined a Master Sorcerer having to chase around a bird in his own cabin, and chuckled.

Upon finding and relocating the bird, Starcaller sat to write a letter in response to the queen.

"

Queen Cylathea,

I am very pleased to read this letter, directly from you. It has indeed been eleven days and despite a cold spell with some rougher weather the journey has been uneventful. From conversations with the sailors and captain, I know there is some hope that our journey will not lead to any troubel and so I thank Saaltus and the skill of our captain for our good fortune thus far.

Similarly, all the provisions have been wonderful and once again I must thank you for providing me so well.

I must also express the happiness I feel in anticipation of arriving to Sarkund and making acquaintance with yourself, The King, and everyone. I also hope that my role will aid you and Sarkund itself.

He wrote, conveying graciousness and humility that one might expect. In reality, the sentiment was quite true; these were the signatures of polite society but with the sincerity Demarr hoped for a good life, where those around him (and himself) could live with optimism and a look towards the greater good rather than the guarded and cynical life that Starcaller expected.

Stacaller paused a moment and then considered the next section of his letter. He would give some information, and continue to convey his guileless attitude to her highness. It was better to omit information completely rather than refuse to provide it, and draw light upon any secrets that may be present. Admittedly, he had few, but it would be better to set early expectations that he did not talk about his work, his heritage or anything else sensitive.



Journeys at sea can be long and so in efforts to keep busy and be helpful I have taken opportunity to help the WindSplitter's crew with some of the needed tasks; I have little experience with such things, but do what I can to help. The rest of the time I do what I can to keep busy or prepare myself for arrival.

Some time was spent painting with the items you had provided; though, it is my belief that any artistry I was gifted was not meant for canvas. However, I endeavour to do better with each attempt.



He spoke about his activities, purposely leaving out the mention of swordsmanship to avoid over burdening her royal highness with all the activities he did poorly. Indeed, with the information Pillarhand would provide, and his own penned letter, it would perhaps sway the queen to believe that Starcaller was humble, unabashed by his lack of mastery and knowledge in some areas but capable in unexpected areas, and to an unknown degree. He felt it would help.


He noted the map and layout of the room, with items and areas and at the mention of a tower, he wondered if she was implying that the tower would be his own. Two decades, that implied the Queen expected his long stay - as might be obvious - and increased Demarr's optimism.

"Again, I thank your graciousness and hope that once settled, you will visit to discuss matters of kingdom, the future and my service.

Regarding library, I will admit that my appetite to learn is formidable, and so I would love to collect any books related to the following topics: Magic, Histories of Tornathian League, with special interest in Sarkund, Books related to ship building, sailing, trade. The local fauna and flora of Sarkund as well as the Ulimar jungles. If there are any documents or accounts of the Sarkund royal court, families and merchants and guilds of the area, that would be splendid. Of course, glassworks, chandlery would be most welcome, also.

Finally, I would ask for a book of the faith, but feel this would be best done in person.



Starcaller thought that the overarching sentiment of the letter was correct. Humble where required, assertive here and there, but ultimately genuinely expressive of Starcaller's desire to assimilate into Sarkund's way of life.

It was true that one might see requests for information about the kingdom as an admission of ignorance, but perhaps more astute people would see it as him being resolute in his preparation to do good work. At least, the mage believed his mannerisms, speech, vernacular and general lack of awareness of some customs of Sarkund would reveal his foreign-ness. Perhaps a necessary evil if he didn't want to spend an entire life pretending to be someone else.

---

He signed the letter, and then rolled it to make a seal, and offered it to the bird. Afterwards, he went about his plans to discover the precise nature of the magical items in his cabin.


[Private to GM: After writing the letter, he will use detect magic to discern the nature of the magic on the robe and medallion, and if it won't tax him too heavily, the bird and the vials.]
This message was last edited by the player at 08:04, Mon 27 Feb 2023.

The tiny statue is retrieved and brought back to the desk and under fill light examined.

The tiny statue has changed, it remains a Falcon, however the position has changed, instead of its beak tucked under a wing and eyes closed as if asleep, now, the position of the falcon is up upright head, looking up, eyes open and wings ruffled and rotated up and spread into a quarter position.

---

       Robe, 4 Charges: Safe in Intense Cold + Armor 4 DEF 1/2 weight
  Medallion, 4 charges, last 1 day, Breath Water + Swimming +5m
Tiny statue, Transform, cosmetic, Trigger, letter seal broken + Images +2 PER, Normal Hearing
      Vials, 12 Charges, last 1 Day, Immune: Motion Sickness, Limit Does not work on target if Magic Roll other than Alchemy is possessed
 Ink bottle, Extra Space, holds 10kg.
Plates and covered glass dishes, Preservation + Immune: Cold

This message was last edited by the GM at 08:18, Mon 27 Feb 2023.

Starcaller smiled and then placed robe in preparation for wearing - while working it wouldn't be required, but if a cold spell occurred again, he would wear while outside.

Instead, he washed and prepared himself.

With the medallion and robe was was mostly safe from the elements. Though admittedly, he should have detected the magic before hand and perhaps used it for the cold spell. The mage held onto the stague for a moment and then tried to listen out to the words on deck, seeing if he was able to hear things more clearly.

After washing, the mage then began to pen a letter to the Lord Marshal, thanking him for Pillarhand's service. Upon completion he would back fill a journal log of his journey thus far. All details of his own activities would be omitted in favour of generic non-commital phrases, but his time with the others would be explained without obfuscation (except the details of how proficient his bladework was).

Alright little friend he said talking to the statue, Let us finish these letters and then we can go and help the crew with more work. It wasn't long until he finished writing his account of the trip, being detailed where it benefitted him, so that the queen would have a good account to read. All people were referred to indirectly, without names, as was the ship. Nor were any specific locations mentioned. Starcaller felt it prudent to protect those involved in the risky journey - and be clear with the queen that sensitive information was kept as such.

Before offering himself to the chores of the ship, Starcaller decided to visit the captain. Initially, he expected the man would call upon him - or had other things to do and so would prefer not to be disturbed, but after so many days at sea, Demarr thought it prudent to initiate an encounter and get to know the man more.

The reality was that the mage had not really anything specific to ask him. The captain was simply the king of the ship, and was the vessel for his own arrival in Sarkund. Demarr expected they had little in common - both in personality and life's expectations. Previous nights had also soured the old-salt's image, as well as the treatment of Pillarhand. Either way, it would be worth asking some questions.

He walked to the cabin, and rapped his knuckles on the door. "Captain, I wish to speak. he said evenly into the wood of the door.
"It is a very well crewed ship you run here. But why were you chosen? You specifically? What makes you better than the other men?

Have you been charged with such tasks previously? How were you first approached? these were questions he wanted to ask. But he also wanted to ask about the journey.
Did you have any problems on your journey to Aarn?

Have you sailed east, past the jungle? these were all questions he rolled into an overarching conversation, in as conversational manner as possible. Demarr did not want the captain feel as though he was being interrogated, but similarly, wanted information about the man and the journies he had taken.


Afterwards, the mage stepped out onto deck and looked for the first mate. "Ho! I am here to help some more. he said to the mate, expecting very much to be sent to clean the deck once again.

The door opens and the Captain is surrounded in a wreath of smoke wisps, in one hand he has a long pipe.

The cabin behind him is dark, there is a smell of a tobacco blend that Demarr has not smelled before, and there is a slight sibilant hissing.

The Captain look one way out the door than another, grabs his passenger and drags him into the room, slowly shutting the door.

He takes a few steps to one side, then take a twig and it lights, slowly as Demarr's eyes adjust, there is light, it comes from the flow of embers in a brazier. That twig the Captain lights, he puts the flame to his pipe, he then sits cross legged down onto the floor, on some kind of carpet, he gestures Demarr do the same.

"You are an honored guest on my ship. I allow you one question after that you make a knot as I require.. (tosses a length of rope)

I was chosen because the Wave Splitter was the fastest ship at anchor in Sarkund.

"Make me a half Witched wave knot."

With that knot made, "Aye, I have had such tasks as all in the ports of Tornathia know the Wave Splitter."

Takes a deep draw from the pipe.

"Tie me a full Rose anchor knot."

When the passenger is unable to make the knot, the Captain grunts and motions to th door, "Leave."

The conversation started well but at the second knot Starcaller was promptly dismissed. Demarr felt a flush of heat rise up in him and the anger came quickly, indeed it was a long time since anyone had ever dared to speak to him that way or had reason to. What was most irritating, though is the undue expectation of Starcaller's ability to work the tasks of a sailor; Starcaller was not a sailor.

The man was too used to getting his own way, unchecked. While Demarr did not doubt the man's capability or aptitude for a sea-borne life, or indeed the mechanism of challenging people to be better he thought the request was unfair. Vindictively the sorcerer thought of parallel situations where the roles were reversed Then touching on petulance went on to the fantastic idea that he could show his own real capability by having every member of the crew tie the knot and bring it to the cabin. It was something, he suspected the man would be more appeased by, and a mechanism to earn respect of the severe Captain.

The fantasy played out in his head, and soon Starcaller realised it was Demarr's youth that had resulted in such petulance, considering the outcome of the situation he indeed would have gained the upper hand but fundamentally the captain's respect, or well-wishes were not important. A better dispositoin would be better, of course and indeed having a Captain as a contact would be something he woudld achieve in the immediacy of their trip and his arrival to Sarkund it mattered for nothing. If he arrived safely, it was done.


TRhe only Men worthy to listen to, are those others follow that was the sentiment, wasn't it? Men must be tested. There was a strong feeling of irony in this sentiment as Demarr looked upon the captain.

The mage had paused, regaining himself before replying. He evaluated the idea of threat, counter-testing, or indeed just reaffirming that he was no sailor but in the end just chose stoicism.

A face neutral. As you request and then he left.

---

When he arrived on deck, Demarr still hung onto the annoyance. Granted his "test" had been somewhat less violent than Pillarhands - and it was of course the captain who reigned supreme on his own ship - but he had failed. Failure was not a familiar feeling for Demarr.

He breifly considered returning to his room bit instead sought out the first mate. "I'm here to help... and would request that if you can spare a man after my work I want to know every knot you require for sailing. it irritated him to ask, almost like submission to the Captain's test but Demarr would not spite his own learning for the sake of such things.

---

AFter his ship, he would ask the sailor sent to his room (shouold it be done) to show him every knot until Starcaller could perform every one by name. He would then ask the sailor to provide a full account of all the tasks required of a sailor, precisely and completely.

All the gentleness and light charm that the man often employed was removed from the request  and in this endeavour Starcaller ruled.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:41, Tue 28 Feb 2023.

The First Mate looks at the passenger, then looks at where he came from.

"I expect'd you short'r.

Next time, you see me before you pass mid ship. Not one foot beyond without you askin me permission.

Get down to the Carpenter shop, get the wire brushes, report to the anchor. After I hear the brushing and grease mop of the anchor done to satisfaction, you may mop the aft castle then retire.

It takes a land lubber years to learn the proper use of knot on a ship for all duties and conditions. I will instruct Ribertes to show you every knot needed.

Now unless you have more urgent need to waste my time, get to duty."
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:31, Wed 01 Mar 2023.

It wrinkled him a little, again. It seemed all mariners had a rough edge to them and perhaps it was indeed their life. But it was rare that anyone had spoken to Demarr in that fashion, and indeed it grated him.

Without a word, he left the man's presence and got on with the work.

"I' Expected'd you short'r implying the usual break from protocol would be met with a more severe reprimend. Interesting.

He got on with work though, the repeated motions of the work was actually quite nice in a way, simple, without complexity but meaningful. There were no immediately life threatening consequences of failure, and it did help to give him an appreciation for things he had not once considered in his life before a fortnight ago. Who'd have guessed the Anchor would be greased? But it did make sense.

The deck became more obvious once you sailed for a while. Despite all the water, salt got everywhere, it made things sticky and encrused into anything it could Keeping things spick and span was perhaps the right way to do things. Starcaller also considered the crew, the tasks kept people focuse dand prevented idle wandering.

"Perhaps I didn't fully appreciate Saaltus and his ways before he said to himself while scrubbing the anchor.

He had greeted the carpenter while picking up their brush, having at least established some kind of rapport on their first meeting, he assumed.

---

AFter his work, Starcaller would continue his daily objectives of writing a journal, ablutions and such. He was eager to read the next latter also.

There is a knock at the door, one knock.

When allowed, a mariner steps in and closes the door behind him.
The man in middle aged, deeply tanned, scarred with two fingers on his left hand missing finger above the first knuckle. His hair is sun bleached, wild, what sticks out under his hair tie.

His voice is somewhere between a dog growl and exhalation of a tired horse.

"Sir, First Mate says I be here to teach knots, all knots in use aboard ships, meaning the Wave Splitter. He was very clear on my instructions."

When prompted Nuci begins, he produced two hemp rope lengths and begins to rattle off knot after knot.

If interupted or asked a question, "I was order to show you every knot in use. The First Mate said that no questions were to be answered, just after my fashion, I's was to give names and tei the knots, then return to my duties."
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:13, Thu 02 Mar 2023.

Starcaller nodded. Rough mariners he thought. But still he acknowledged the man's orders.

Demarr followed the knot making as best he could, committing to memory the names of them. He didn't know how many there would be, surely not more than he would exepct: how many ways could you tie a knot, he thought to himself. They all do the same thing, or so he thought.

Once completed Starcaller said Show me again. and repeated the process until he could do them all, or until the man insisted on leaving. What slightly irritated Starcaller is that there was no indication as to what these were useful for.

I also think it was implied by the first mate that if showing the knots, you were to indicate what their use was...." he said, gently while mimicking the knot tying.

---

The whole process was quite unsettling for Demarr, he was not used to this kind of rough encounter with low-born people, nor was he used to being incapable at anything. The rough attitude of the mariners, seemed really to go against the majority of his experience as a youth where he was quite able to get the things he wanted without even uttering a single magical word.

In his indignance he would have the entire crew sit on deck with him for days and teach him everything there was about sailing until he could call himself such, if it didn't imperil the crew and ship and himself. But again these were Demarr's fantasies to relieve his own ego.

The situation as it was, this simply kept him occupied, allowed him to learn new things and understand the world just a little bit more. He didn't need to bully these men into acquiescence, and so he would take this as it came.

---

Once the session was over, Starcaller would read the next letter.

"My specifics, I show'n all knots used aboard the Wave Splitter. First Mate said one time through, no more. I done it.

I'v had but simple words to meanin'. No more... to the explanation, by way of the First Mate.

May I take my leave?"

---

The daylight still had some waning hours to it.

You may leave, yes. Thank you for showing me he said jovially.

Starcaller then practiced again to see how much of the information he'd retained but decided that all the gaps could be filled with sorcery. A useful skill that could take years off his education.

After attempting the knots once again, the mage collected his mind to a pinpoint, and then felt its focus shift to that of a familiar mind. The first mate. He linked the mind and felt the familiar presence.

"What are all knots used in sailing, their tying and when would one use them?" his mind danced around the concept of the knots he'd just viewed from the sailor. The concepts were crystalised as individual questions he wanted to know.  What are all the knots you know, that are required for sailing? was the first How do you tie each knot? came the second, and finally When and why would you use each knot? as the knowledged danced through Starcaller's mind, his hands recreated the motions to mimcik what his mind's eye saw.

Afterwards, he was unable to resist the curiosity. What are your thoughts on the guest?

After he had further practiced, he would make for bed, after writing his journal entry and sleep.


[Private to GM: Telepathy: Questions posted in the post, will do this without knowledge of the spell-castee and to a sufficient degree to have perfect resolution of his knowledge of knots.]
This message was last edited by the player at 16:40, Tue 07 Mar 2023.

While the knot maker had been clear in use of mariner knots, as Starcaller does his review, he begins to wander a bit from the path, soon his recall of specific knots and simple combinations begin to be mixed.

Sorcery is seems was not used in this endeavor and the knowledge while fresh, was fading. It seems that nothing could displace the need for years of practice, failure, retry and instruction, just as all things Starcaller had seen Demarr learn.

First Mate Osvali' mind was becoming more familiar to Starcaller, there was a texture, an almost tactile feel to the way his thoughts ebbed and flowed. The Sorcerous power that flowed over the ship made a recognition of the mind and, once made, brought into clarity the very levels of his thoughts from current to memory to depths beyond the conscious, to the place of symbols.

It was not as if the world could be seen passing, here in that part of memory Demarr looked at.
Demarr had been taught how to elude the triggers, the trips, of the mind seeking anything out of place or disturbed, having not itself ordered such activity. Then the paths of memory opened and memory held all the answers,it was a matter of fetching them by Sorcerous will.

 - What are all the knots you know, that are required for sailing?

The Sorcerous will reaches out and the mind orders the answer into a list of knots in their finished and complete state. It would seem that there are dozens of knots that are known and they compare to all the knots shown to Starcaller.

 - How do you tie each knot?

The language used is colorful, lots of references to animals, body parts, situations, storm terms. In turn, each knot anatomy is described.

 - When and why would you use each knot?

The mind organized the answer in a particular order. Weight of object, type of weather knot exposed to, injury sustained to body, type of rope as medium, time. Memories of each combination of need and the book of knots flipped through and selected. The book was last and so the pages were not ordered and flashed as they were flipped forwards and reverse-wards.

The matching of Demarr's memory as shown by the unknown and meandering unknown system used by Nuci with the clear order of the First Mate, near impossible to follow.

 - What are your thoughts on the guest?

He takes too many liberties with the crew and the Captain. He walks around and talks down to every crew member on this ship. He chaffs at being told the smallest of things and at orders to do the smallest of tasks. He is a land lubber without the faintest clue of life in the brine of Saaltus. He seems like a weight is on his shoulders to prove himself. Someone in Sarkund must have moved a mountain to snatch him up in Aarn to bring him to Sarkund. He is not a fighter, not a mariner, nor a merchant, not a tradesman, perhaps a clerk artist? He dos carry himself well, perhaps the girls of Sarkund will like him. He is not Aarnese, nor does he speak like Tatha Gorel or Sarreshar. I am ordered to do my duty, yet indulge the boy. I too once was a landwalker  before I was a deck walker, there was I time when I knew nothing of the Deep Fathers, Saaltus,  perhaps the Bounteous Lady has put him here in order he ripens.
May the High Faith protect him until he finds his true path, for it is not at sea, or at least not now.

More loop making, cross stitching, then soaking his hands in fresh water before sleep.

The knot tying went worse than he wanted. The clarity was there, but still was bounded by the limits of his own memory. Even through the convoluted mechanisms the man had for remembering how to tie knots - which made sense in a way - it was hard to remember that many knots in such a short space of time. It was his own mind's failing, rather than that of the magic, he concluded.

The overall analysis of Starcaller was interesting, and painted entirely the wrong picture. He decided it was best to reconsider the way in which he interacted with people. The things that struck the mage was, the mate could potentially deduce where he wasn't from based on how he talked; that he is considered a fop, or boy of sorts and that he speaks down to the crew. Did he? It didn't seem to the mage that he spoke in any way that was demeaning or somesuch, but perhaps this was an inheritance from his life as a Hind.

The most striking observation was directly related to what he was not. A warrior, merchant, sailor or anything. To be defined by what you are not was somewhat gauling and it made the mage consider deeply what he was indeed.

After a short while of reflection and consideration Demarr realised that what he really was - was unprepared for this life.  A Sorcerer he may be but other than the magics of the world almost all of his life experience had been inside Aarn or the Hind estate - knowledge more than anything else, and even in that domain perhaps not generalist.  It was the far cry from the adventuring spirit he'd been born with.


What was it he was to do for the King and Queen, and their family? Well "serve" was the answer. But how to do that, he supposed he would not find out until he arrived and spoke with them directly. But realistically, what could he do to help? He wondered until sleep took him.

---

The next day, he opened the next letter.

Demarr wakes, the sun is coming through the windows and strikes all the colors of th e sheets and reflections of the glass wares and a little from the mirror.

The next letter waits

Letter 12
Fine script, grass green ink on stark white, rough edge, thin paper fibers.

This letter describes various birds. Names, coloring, feeding habits,
Then there is a bit on 'birds' from the Ulimar, describing a series of flightless birds, with feathers and of various sizes, many have not been named and seen only in glimpses inside the Ulimar.

There are passages describing large enclosed glass aviary that houses over 31 different types of birds.

At the cracking of the letter's deal, there is a small chirp, Demarr looks up, on his desk is
the falcon statue, whose position has changed again, the wings are outstretched to its maximum and the legs are bent to make the statue look as if it is about to leap to flight.

The text had changed, and given the focus on birds Starcaller assumed it was the hand of someone else. Though who precisely it wasn't clear. The queen's interest in birds had already been made clear and so he thought her scribe could have made the letterings.

Another chirp caught his attention, and the sorcerer enjoyed the shift in its stature. Indeed, as it opened up - a staged process - he thought that it could perhaps be a messenger bird, but only once they were close enough to Sarkund for it to make sense. Until then, he would observe  the change with each coming day.

Demarr didn't feel like helping with the ship that day and so he reserved himself to continuing his painting efforts, reusing canvas where he could, in the hope he could create something at least half way reasonable. He used the bird as his muse, and spent the time focused on making the colours and shape as realistic as possible.

After a while he would continue to write the journal, as he had been doing for days, stowing them with the letters he'd written.

---

Without much in the way of reading material or directly prescribed goals Demarr found it difficult to sit in the cabin for so long, he considered how long he'd been at sea and suspected that his disjointedness from the crew meant that he had time to sit and feel the isolation. It was made more apparenty when he understood the crew's view of him. An altogether alien feeling. But he would persevere.

A smile cocked on the side of his mouth as he considered the idea of finding a mind in a library somewhere at the Hind estate, or indeed Aarn itself and then forcing the person to read books at his leisure. He would be able to read the book from a great distance. The idea  of remotely using somebody as a reading vessel amused the young mage considerably, and it was tantalising. However, it did lead his train of thought to something more directly useful.

Starcaller went to the desk in his room, and sat in it, closing his eyes and beginning to feel his mind expand, out it went into the the swirling and amorphous mass of blues and greens. Colours flashed and moved, concepts came into existence and then swirled out into nothing again like whisps of smoke on the plane where minds existed. Brights spots dotted everywhere, stronger in some places and weaker in others. Demarr knew that these were the consciousnesses of people and creatures. While he could feel the presence, no information about placement or the nature of the minds was apparent until he brought his mind closer, to zoom in on ones that seemed familiar.

The sorcerer continued to expand his own consciousness, untli the vastness of the world started to become dizzying, he knew what he wanted though and this ensured that his mind would not be lost to the aether.

where are you all... he asked himself when his mind had expanded to miles around the vessel on which he sailed, a beacon of light on the otherwise amorphous landscape.

His goal was clear, he wanted to identify nearby ships and find a mind within the area around the Wavessplitter that was closest and zoom into the captain or mate. He would link minds, and then use it to find their course. Then, he could pull their intentions from their mind.

Is anyone following us?E he would determine, and if it was concluded that they weren't he would probe their mind for information.

Starcaller felt the goal coaleace in his mind, and reigned supreme in his domain.


[Private to GM: For mind scan, i believe the spell modifier is -7

I would like the full effect of mind scan, so it's undetectable and I can determine precise location as well as cast any mental spells through the scan.]
This message was last edited by the player at 06:48, Sat 11 Mar 2023.

Demarr's mind expanded, looking to touch the various minds around him, which he did, knowing them to be the crew of the Wave Splitter. Then expansion as he pushed out farther over the Sea of Storms in all direction listening for the echoes of thought and find the origin of those echoes.

As opposed to when in the Guild of Twelve Staffs, the city of Aarn was crowded, filled with people and minds of nearly every race found on Arduna. Aarn was crowded and thoughts ranged from the drunken to the enraged, to the calm to the serene. Here there were vast open waters with no other minds then... there... there farther out.. minds.

Within his mindseeking three clusters of minds.  Demarr chooses the nearest.

A light tendril reached out, no more than a gossamer thread, yet it found its target and began its work. The thread like a wisp of fog, listened, it followed the thoughts it heard to weave a pattern ot then began to send back up the wisp to it's sorcerous origin.

The mind is that of Caot. Cemirillo di Sersui of the Sea Folly. His mind is moving ahead of Demarr's position and it is more Easterly, the distance is known, and to Demarr that breaks down as two days ahead.

The course is to Tatha Gorel. The intention to is trade the goods in the holds with the Guild of Leaf & Lyre for profit.

Well it seemed that they were not being followed by anyone and, honestly, given the importance and seeming secrecy of the journey Starcaller thought it was going to be the case, but his master had instilled within him a degree of paranoia that Demarr would have never considered.

The direction of the ship, and destination however did give Starcaller some degree of understanding of their positioning however. If they were travelling the same way as the Wavesplitter but were aiming for Tatha Gorel, it meant that they themselves were unlikely to have passed it and so had not curved around the corner of the league, to head east, yet.

From Starcaller's recollection there were two major islands at the point where the ship was supposed to turn east, and Starcaller wanted to know a little more.

"What is your determination of the Islands of Trogen and Orinden; specifically, what and who live there. Are the waters dangerous? And your overall views he formed the question in his mind, and sent the pulse of consciousness through the link.

- What is your determination of the Islands of Trogen and Orinden;
specifically, what and who live there.

<Maps may have a name for them, mariners call then the Dagger Sisters. One beautiful the other terrible. As likely to kiss you as kill you. A home for Men of desperate and low character.
A home for pirates, brigands and those that embrace the Red Gods. They make union with the
Deep folk, who eat Men as do foaming dogs eat.


- Are the waters dangerous? And your overall views

The waters there run swift the closer you are to land, as in a siege engine that catapults rock, so to do the waters  catapult a ship in, then out at speeds most cannot manage.

The waters there are controlled by the Deep Folk, and they... require payment. The most costly of all coin (flesh of Men)

The Dagger Sisters are to be given wide berth, in passing it is all hands to battle stations.
All blessing to Saaltus, but it is a home for cults of the Red Gods, all due respect, I sail into the blackest Typhoon and join the Deep Fathers before I let any from those Isles board.

The dagger sisters, pirates. Starcaller assumed that over the next few days they might indeed pass the dagger sisters and perhaps be in the most dangerous waters yet so perhaps Starcaller might expect trouble.

It was interesting, the deep folk, red gods, pirates and brigands. These were all traits shared by the captain, to some degree or another. It made Starcaller wonder what precisely had been the man's upbringing, or life before his escorting of a mage to Sarkund.

Fast waters too, meaning that ships, captains, and crew had to be very capable to sail the waters. Perhaps such waters were natural - he couldn't tell - but the mage knew of the Captain's belief in their magics, controlling the waters

Demarr thought through the knowledge he'd gained and felt the adventurousness of his youth spark through and ignite a fire.  Eating of flesh, piracy and some interesting other points.

He had heard deep folk and deep fathers  referenced before but didn't justly know any details. And so Demarr formed the next questions, and sent out the magical pulse that would pull the information from the man's mind. As he felt it leave him, he could feel the intensity of his curiosity come through.

What do the deep folk look like?  Who/What are the deep fathers he asked mentally.

---

Once pulling the information from the captain Starcaller had disconnected his mind from the other captain, satisfied with the extra information. He rose from his chair, stretching his legs from sitting and then walked around his room a little.

Then, he revisited the painting, hoping he could improve a little, but ultimately using it to distract him for a little while before writing his journal entry, ready for the king and queen.

Later that day, he would ask the Captain of the wave splitter what he knew about the Deep Ones and the Dark fathers, and probe into his dealings with them in the past.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:36, Mon 13 Mar 2023.

- What do the deep folk look like? 

The Deep Folk are all ones that have heard the Saggwei Call and turned away from land and joined the Embraced. Their numbers are a Legion of legions, they prey on all and ask no quarter. They eat Man, woman, and take children to sacrifice to the Red Gods and to Altars of Gods Unknown.

Their dark magics change tides, unleash the Plated Ones and push storms to land to bring about their Drowned World.

Do not look them in the eyes.
Do not listen to the gnashing of dagger teeth.
Do not let them tattie blood, for that taste brings the Phreneticori.

Physically they are thick, wet, sharp webbed hooks and fins, the grasp of four men
and have a hate so strong for the weapons of land one can be pieced through and still
reach for the throat. They belch sputum to extinguish fire, they taunt so fear saps
strength, rather would you be taken by a pack of rabid dogs them by any of the Deep Folk


- Who/What are the deep fathers

The Deep Fathers are the Wisdom. They recall once being mortal and had loved the Sea so soon after creation that they joined all the Waters of the world. They found the Deep ones, they found the Mottled Folk and they set to the task of peace. The Deep Father's have a Design for the Waters beyond the comprehension of men, aye, all Mortals, only the Elven folk know even the slightest of pieces of that Design. And Elves no longer speak of it or anything to Men.

Blessed are those that the Deep Fathers preserve and save, they are respected those that the Deep Fathers send their messengers and guides to, for they have begun a path to join the great Design.

Later that day, he would ask the Captain of the wave splitter

- what he knew about the Deep Ones and the Dark fathers

Blessed are the Deep Fathers for they bring the Light of the High Faith to the Depths.
Tis sad beyond reckoning that most have turned their back on the Sea, which has more to it in one days travel than a month's travel on land.
How many will hear the Wisdom in their life, know it to be true?

By my Life I swear that what I hear I will do, regardless of the Deep Ones chorus.

The Deep Ones are that murderous, poisonous inky stain of Asvalak's blood given form.
How many secrets lie below the surface, with the Gate Aracelsus a lure to feed the Uncounted.

I have looked into that face of horror and seen not but hunger and hate.
I pity those who walk on Land as they are ignorant of the True Battle for the World.


- and probe into his dealings with them in the past.

What is described are a series of things seen

Words hardly cover the scene of a shoreline, narrow between rocks and trees, where large, tailed, giant eyed Deep Ones talk with Men and a Dwarf who walk without shoes into the waters to their knees and seem to converse.

A scene of pure white surrounded by waters, churning and almost boiling, the leaping onto the white of monstrous webbed and fanged creatures, that walk upright and slash with tails of bone daggers

A scene described as a beach of black sand, course, hot and a body of a giany taller than five Men, longer that the largest carack, deep color blue almost to black, eyes with the light of the High Faith, speaking through a long mouth ridged with rows of sharp teeth, a Deep Father come finally to rest on land after knowing how many drum beats were left in it heart, the size of an Oliphant.

There it told of what was coming, how the Design called for bold, fearless Men to gather the weapons they could to break the tide of Stikhosis.  That day was when the boy was no more and the Captain was born.

A scene in a temple, an old man, bent with age, having arms thicker 'round than a big man 's waist, looking shocked and shaking his head, then falling to his knees and deep in prayer.

A time at night, no moon, lanterns lit and swinging at every step, a giant fire blazing in a cauldron amidships, spears and glaives pointed outwards, an awful sound described as a thousand cats scratching wood, bubbling howls from watery throats  and then gouts of a sticky and acidic flem, teeth, jaws, fangs and claws ripping and eating mariners all around him.

Strange caves of white and a submerged temple where giant bones of the Deep Father rest, forming a path to a place that was covered by white walls and spikes of white, a place inhabited by giant white haired Men that had arms longer than there bodies who ate of the Deep Ones bones and flesh, whose that came form the Sea.

As with most things, the answers gave birth to even more questions. Though through the mind's eye, the context and formulation of such things came through, it was certainly things far away from the experience of Starcaller.

What was the Sawggwei Call, what were the Embraced... Legions and savagery to Red gods and those unknown, it was quite a mystery. More importantly, and perhaps more aligned with Starcaller's area of particular expertise - as far as it could be called that at this early stage of his career - dark magics ere of interest. "Purely academic, of course" he thought to himself when considering the dark workings of foreign mages.

They sounded like hellish creatures spitting vitriol and awful things, with evil intent. Surely they were a people or

---

AFterwards, probing the mind of the Captain of the Wavesplitter, he gained some more understanding. The deep fathers were those of the high faith, or so it seemed. And perhaps the captain's severity made more sense once it was contextualised into his dogma. It was true that the mage didn't fully understand the man's definition of the deep fathers, only that they were perhaps a parallel for those that he himself sought solace in, from time to time. The high faith was indeed with others. Asvalak incarnate perhaps, or perhaps revering the warrior god; Starcaller did not know. Nor did he know about Aracelsus Gate.

As the images of Igmar's memory flowed into him, Starcaller reflected on the fight that the man saw, the one for the whole world. The scenes moved quick and showed glimpses of the man's life, perhaps or some things he had seen as a third party. They were somewhat disjointed, however, and once again STarcaller was left with many questions.

The thoughts were disturbing, as the scenes triggered his own emotions, some a desperate longing, and others caused Starcaller's heart to race in anticipation of battle. He felt fear. Pulling back from the Captain's mind, Starcaller disconnected his own mind and then sat in his chair again, looking up and taking some time to re-organise what he'd learned, and let his heart settle a little. It took a few moments before the sorcerer admonished himself. He was reading the history and thoughts of another man and in this case it was logical to believe the mage himself was not at risk from the memories of another man.

Starcaller made a note to investigate further into the Sisters and those that were called the deep ones.

---

Having written his journal and spent some time entertaining the canvas with a paint laden brush, the mage decided he'd spent enough time learning secrets of the deep, and resigned to passing the time however he could before washing and sleeping. At least he would have more information about Sarkund to consider in the morning.

Morning was a half lighted, the sun was behind clouds and the ship was leaning to one side.

Demarr would go to his desk and find the next letter. Upon breaking the seal, the falcon statue would give a little chirp and lift to one leg as if to give flight.


Letter 13
Fine script, grass green ink on stark white, rough edge, thin paper fibers.

It has been decided that you shall be introduced into Cort as a new Apprentice Alchemist to our Court Alchemist. That you come from Aarn and that you have come to learn and serve Alchemist Thecemithes the Diamondinium.

This will be the fiction told to all in the Court, you will have such interaction with the Alchemist as to make the fiction plausible, yet, the Alchemist will not have any command over you, save that which is performative.

Over time we see your time consumed by Research and out of the Court's eye.

It will be advantageous to the Court that none shall know your true School until such time as it becomes unavailable to reveal, may that be many tens of years from now.

I do not know what you require as assistance, it was not made clear, when you arrive, we can arrange what you require.

So, Demarr would be the apprentice of a master alchemist. An interesting plot to ensure that he was not found out to be a sorcerer. It was somewhat concerning that they would want him hiding away to perform research the whole time, away from court - arguably the most useful place he could be placed.

Perhaps it was a precedent that the alchemist set, to be secluded and allowed to get on with research of his own.

Starcaller wondered to what end, however, the research would be aimed how much control would he himself have over its direction, and how much would the royalty of SArkund interfere with his own goals? Ultimately, it was his goal to work well with the king and queen to help make Sarkund better.

Being left to his own devices and having less responsibilities to the court, upon reflection, was indeed a good thing. It would mean that perhaps he would be omitted from events and could work on things outside of the public eye. But the position did not sit perfectly with Demarr who dislikeed, even the performative notion of being apprenticed, again.

Either way it didn't matter, the play was set, and the theatre was Sarkund and Starcaller would had been cast.

As per every day, after he'd read the letter, he did indeed write his journal entry, ensuring to keep the level of detail about the journey precise, but his own specific activities minimised and somewhat obscure. He also obscured the names, and talked in a general way so that nobody would be capable of discerning precise details of their position, or the name of the ship and crew members.

He did want to also make contact with his brother and learn any news of the Hind household, and catch up - but he would do this once he had settled in Sarkund. More importantly, it was necessary to make contact, more distinct contact with the Black Spear group as well oas the merchants he had indeed made contact prior to travelling to his new home. From here he would set up some of his own infrastructure that could achieve his own goals. Again, this would best be done once he had settled.

Starcaller added "Deep ones" and the "Deep Fathers" to his list of books that he would like in his library.

Afterwards, he went through his memory, to remember the knots he had learned - and then started recounting them all, writing down the name of all that he could remember and then attempt to make them.

After trying a number of times, Starcaller wandered out to the deck and appraoched the first mate. "Are there any things I can do to help with the the ship?" he asked, knowing the man's feelings about the Wavesplitter's guest and had to hold his tongue to acknowledge that he was indeed a land dweller and not a seasoned sailor, but Demarr felt high spirited and thought he would help whatever the man's feelings.

After the duties that he'd been assigned, his sorcerous presence would retire and await the next day.

The First mate answers with a gesture and a curt, "Deck swab, spare sail wsh."

With that the buckets of fresh water and vinegar are put in a bucket, mop provided.

Then the spare sails have to be retrieved form the bottom hold, brought up to the top deck, unfolded, checked for seam damage and brushed with soft brush, then refolded and returned to the bootm hold, where a check for infestation is required if sign is found, pellets, then crew foes on a rat hunt.

No rat sign is found.

It is a new and tiring task.

The sun is dim when Demarr wakes, the light is muted by thin bans of clouds.


Letter 14
Fine script, grass green ink on stark white, rough edge, thin paper fibers.

What is written is a list of important men and women who serve in positions for the Court of Sarkund.

              Seneschal: Thendus di Torsi, M, Court matters Internal & External
             Royal Page: Moravo Cruri, M, errand of the King and Queen
                Archoth: Bescidra, F, of the High Faith, Saaltus
           Lord Marshal: Perthi da Harcollo, M
           Lord Admiral: Cescua de Crondirossi, F
 Royal Master of Forges: Vumaco Sarfi Adenge, M
   Royal Banquet Master: Geribo de Bresvo, M, Matters of cuisine, food supply
        Royal Constable: Sorre da Gulduin, F, Security and sadty of Court
                Steward: Thovi da Uso, F
            Chamberlain: Recera Castellini, F, Manages domestic issues of Court
             Chancellor: Dalmito di Sandero, M, Judge of Legal matters
                 Herald: Temistocle Marcheti, M
        Keeper of Seals: Daundi Lustrora, F, Seals and Keys of the Court
Great officer of Tariff: Nidezigo Vavada, M, Tax collection of Trade
   Master of Ceremonies: Solange Pico, F, Court Entertainer
    Master of the Horse: Thulmer de Rirsuva, M
     Master of the Hunt: Sarges the Braid, M
 Grandmaster of Letters: Beldanati di Dostendaici, F, Royal Archivist
                Almoner: Alarch Virone, M, Royal donor to causes of the Poor
     Pursuivant of Arms: Taroca de Orrall, F, Heraldric Authority
        Lady-in-waiting: Violante de Civiello, F

When th e seal of the letter is broken there is a chirping sound and the statue of the falcon has changed it now is in take off, tail feathers just brushing the ground as it arches up.

Capt. Pillarhand knocks on th edoor some time later, when gtanted permssion he says, "The Captain requests you stay in your cabin until we pass beyond the Dagger Sisters."
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:26, Mon 20 Mar 2023.

A day of hard work wasn't so bad, taxing on his hands and arms and legs and indeed every other part of him. Who would consider a sail to be simply so heavy Demarr wondered sardonically but  resigned himself to a good day's work.

The mage didn't spend much time dallying before heading off to bed and sleeping a dreamless sleep.


Demarr read the letters, through the names of the important people at court and was glad to have some information about the people he may indeed encounter. After re-reading the letter, Demarr looked at the bird that chirped again, this time it looked as if it was ready to take off and fly, he presumed to carry letters, but wanted to be sure.

---

Later, when Pillarhand knocked, Starcaller nodded and thanked him Thank you Captain. From what I understand of the Dagger Sisters, we will be crossing a dangerous area. So stay vigilant. and then he dismissed the man.


Starcaller had been asked to stay in his quarters for the next few days while they passed the dangerous place. It probably was the best place for him, but he also did want to see what they were like.  Instead, Demarr sought to pass the time painting, practicing a litle with the blade he had and writing updates to the journal.

The work was taking a toil on Starcaller's hands, they now were less flexible, had calluses, some of whih were peeling skin off.  His skin was turning red and burning at night, despite baths, which helped more when the ship's medicant had supplied some scented oils be added.

---

The painting was difficult, it required more scraping and cleaning of the canvas, which took more time than the actual application of paint. It appeared that Demarr was not a natural at painting anything more detailed than broad seascapes with clouds ans a sunset.

---

The mornign was brightthe sun beamed through the glass like it was to the West, alas it was only a tac and reflection off water.

A meal was brought, Capt. Pillarhand checked in, seeking any requests.

Letter 15
Fine script, grass green ink on stark white, rough edge, thin paper fibers.

What is described is a list of kingdoms and their value to Sarkund , considering Trade, Diplomacy and Resources

 1. The Sirrenic Empire
 2. THurgandia
 3. Velkara
 4. Aarn
 5. Besruhan
 6. Mhendarian Palatinate
 7. Vestria
 8. Hargeshite Empire
 9. Free City of Tavrosel
10. Sedrosa
11. Varan

At the breaking of the Seal there is a chirp and the statue has changed to a curving soaring wingspan, where the very tip of the left wing touches the base, and the falcon appears to be turning to the left.

Practice was a tedious business, only so much movement could be allowed and without an opponent or an instructor it seemed limited what practice could be made.

The skin issue of his hands was expected but lack of flexibility was interesting to Starcaller, it was entirely unexepcted - but he wanted ot know more detail. People had indicated that questions were not particularly welcome, but the mage had another way to ask such things. He reached out with some impetus to the first mate and mentally pulled the answers to the followng questions from the man's mind.

"Is reduction in flexibility normal for ship's work? Does the reduced movement and damage to the skin and hands recover? Does this happen to everyone on the ship? Why did you assign the tasks you did to the guest of the Wavesplitter? How do you make the hands better again? his thoughts coaelessed into the arrows of questions and fired into the man's mind.

---

When Pillarhand arrived, Starcaller greeted the man and thanked him for the meal How are you finding your time on the ship? I suspect we are half way back to Sarkund now, so you should be home and back on the land again, back to real soldiering he offered with a wry grin.  Also, what tasks have been you been helping the ship's crew with? Did you hear anything about the Dagger Sisters, or about the next few days of sailing?

Is reduction in flexibility normal for ship's work?

It is, only if the work is done by men not used to hard work before coming aboard

Does the reduced movement and damage to the skin and hands recover?

Yes, with proper care

Does this happen to everyone on the ship?

No, only those too young or too old

Why did you assign the tasks you did to the guest of the Wavesplitter?

To test his mettle, because the Capt said he was not to come to harm, and because I trust that it will teach a lesson of mariner-ship and give him an experience that he was given a fair shake to learn, though I be lighter on him than most.

How do you make the hands better again?

There are medicant jellies and salves, ice water and hot water pans, wrapping hands in prepared seaweed fronds

---

Pillarhand takes a moment, "I enjoy it, there is a lot to learn and I can say, it is not easy, not made easy, and I have had to realize it is much alike to my service in the infantry, just a little more harsh.

Aye Yes, we are now passing into the outer Western edge, from what I have overheard.

"I have taken an interest in the engines, the large spear throwers, the First Mate has me doing  very dirty menial job on this ship, from pasting jot tar on boards below water line, scrapping barnacles from the external hull bottom with the ship listing to one side to re-balancing the ship's ballast for better line in the water, to hammering in grommets and nails in the spars above.  The list of chores is endless.

A place I thank the Blue Gods I never had to know of before now, and for the rest of my long and fruitful life. Imagine every childhood story of Witches, those mad, touched by the Red Gods, things that no one will even have words for, ship sized serpents and there followers and those that thirst for blood of Men, the crew whispers of a protection the Capt has, that will cover this ship. Magic currents and waves that obey the will of those that live in the depths.

The crew is holding its breath as the Capt has said, we need to find the swiftest currents and he knows the safest way is getting closer than any would like. More crew are praying and the unease feels like a tightening pressure on the chest."

Before disconnecting the mental link that he had with the first mate, Demarr asked two more questions. Who on the ship tends to such injuries. Where would I find such things on the shop

---

Ah yes, all the chores. There are quite a lot but it helps the ship and keeps everyone busy. he paused.

yes, I can imagine the concern is real but I think that the captain is certainly familiar with the waters enough to guide us safely.

Though what of his this protection that the crew has mentioned? Do you know more about this?I I wonder what the crew would say about the origins of such thing. he cocked a grin.
This message was last edited by the player at 08:18, Sat 25 Mar 2023.

of the First Mate
Who on the ship tends to such injuries?

No one on this ship would have such injuries... except the Passenger, such is his newness to actual work.

Where would I find such things on the shop

The ship's medicant or possibly the Ship's cook.

---

Captain Pillarhand answers with the honest answer, "The crew has not confided in me with such things, if they know, they have not said.  I believe it is just their confidence and past experiences he has seen them through.

If I am excused I want to try and get some food and rest until needed."
This message was last updated by the GM at 08:15, Sat 25 Mar 2023.

The mind was a wonderful thing, and here was his. You will send the most capable person with appropriate medicines to tend to the hands of the guest, to ensure that no lasting damage occurs and believe entirely that given his newness, and unseasoned hands that it is the correct and right thing to do. he thought out, enjoying the idea that the sensations in his hands and soreness would be gone or soothed as best as much as possible.

It did leave a slightly sour taste in his mouth. He had soft hands, noble hands that stood him aside from every man on the vessel. Perhaps this was the mark of noble birth but it certainly wasn't the measure of one's full capacity.

Having considered the letter that had been written, the subterfuge surrounding his own appointment to Sarkund, and indeed the consideration about what he could offer, there were many things. Not all of them apparent.

---

Demarr nodded at it Understandable, you are still new, but it's good that you hear such things. I expect that it takes time to earn that confidence, but this is something I think you'd know well, from your own career.

Of course, dismissed


With the request that he stay in quarters and other things done, the mage was resigned to occupying himself writing, and then continuing the cycle or rest, sleep,and reading letters.
The thought had crossed his mind to simply make everyone answer all of his questions, and treat him like their greatest friend but the sorcerer's master had trained into him the art of subtlety and while no doubt effective for the time being it felt a little heavy handed.

The complex thought structure went out and then joined with the patterns in thought already in the First Mate. Then the altered thought patterns began to sift upwards through sub systems of thought and impulse, until action was taken.

---

Pillarhand leaves, and Demarr turns to writing and taking his rest. Noticing that his hands were ... perhaps more susceptible to work than he would like.

A knock fell upon the door to the cabin and a voice called out, "I am sent by the First Mate."

The ship's medicant enters and finds a place to set a small bag down and motions to the passenger to show him the hands.  There is a small time for inspection and a  bit of flexing.

The bag then produced a thick oily substance, thicker than honey and smells of a camphor nature.
Cotton in small woven patches are dipped into a dark brown solution and applied, with a simultaneously spoken warning of slight pain. Then the jelly is applied then bandages are wrapped around the palms and wrist.

"Very good Sir. it is not an extreme case, the medicines will work over time, we will wash and wrap twice a day, once in the morning and once at night. be sure to clasp a fist , ipen and close on every two bells.

I suggest to avoid heavy cordage and course hemp ropes.

Any other ailments, rashes, fatigues?"

When the man arrived to see to Starcaller's hands, he was glad that was able to speak to someone and have someone help relieve his hands.

"Thank you very much" he said while the man tended his hands. Tell me, what are your thoughts of the life of a sailor, or those that choose a different life. I ask because we pass the Dagger Sisters soon, and I so hear tales of men sailing these waters who have seen strange, weird or even amazing things. What of you? he said it with a casual tone, making it seem like he was passing the  time with his questions, framed in conversation, but secretly, wondered what the extent of the crew's experience was. Did they suspect the Captain of his magics, had they seen something directly? Perhaps they'd seen the deep ones or some other things against the will of Saaltus.


After the man had tended his wounds and Starcaller had had ample time to speak and converse with the man he would return to his routine.

[Private to GM: He will use CHARM on the man to encourage him to answer questions, and generally give him a great disposition.
22:25, Today: Secret Roll: Gwynt Starcaller rolled 10 using 3d6 with rolls of 3,6,1.  charm.

]

"Life at sea is to learn that life is calm, even placid, followed by harrowing moments of terror and death from a thousand different sources.

For my part I have found the last crew I will serve with. The Capt'n has navigated the Wave Splitter  through all manner of waters, his seamanship is beyond compare. He knows the currents and winds from beyond Vornakkia to North of Vestria. I have seen him fight the Deep Ones, the frothing Ice men, beserkers of Vestria. If a man knows more about the Sea, he has not been born yet.

Being part of the mariner's life means to trust you crew, work harder than the man next to you and to take the sweet days of swift winds of sail firmly to help in the becalmed days or the seething days of storm where the seas fill the horizon and be higher than the crow's nest above.

The Dagger Sisters are known for the sharp stabbing knife points that surround the isles, the shape of the Isles form the shape of daggers, and what few know is the Capt'n has spent time on the Isles and has... divined the navigational dangers of those waters. Dark things live upon the Dagger Sisters, even Deep Ones, which we have faced on the darkest of nights.

The wounds left by those monsters are always dark with the infections of the poisons from what the Deep Ones eat.

Saaltus has blessed the Capt'n with Lore of the Seas. You would be wise to call Saaltus and make the most powerful sacrifice you can to the Lord of the Depths."

Starcaller nodded while listening. Seen them fighting? Starcaller made a noise that seemed impressed. Have you ever known them to leave the area of the Dagger Sisters? he asked while flexing his hand.

After the questions had been answered, Starcaller nodded and thanked the man again before allowing him to leave.

After that, would complete the exercies as suggested and go about his business again - only minimising the amount he would have to use his hands. Though it didn't take long for him to realise that there was little to do.  He continued as best as possible, never quite giving up the writing though.

"Pray to Saaltus you never see that before you. The death, the sheer blood lust. Can you see others eaten, piece by piece, treated like cattle, there are men you have survived, hard men, who I know are broken and live in squalor because their failure, their inability to stop the gruesome bloody violence, not to themselves but the brother mariner that stands next to them.

I horror I wish you to never have."




"There are plenty of stories I have heard, ships adrift, bloody and empty. The Deep Ones are unknowable except for their appetites. You now have heard the names that those on land are blissfully ignorant of. The weight of that, knowing what we know, ask for dreams and time to take away what you know, lose the burden after you step off the Wave Splitter."

The writing goes in fits and starts then sleep calls. Demarr rolls into his clean sheets, dried in the sun and snapped in the wind and dried by the sun.   Threaded from virgin cotton and spun on wheels by virgin adolescent girls. Covered in warm feather stuffed blankets and pillows, with a touch of warmth from threads of gold and sliver that stitches the edges.

Then a partial wakefulness as bells ring and hard feet run on decks and leap  and to a degree allowed by decks, a few shouts of encouragement.

Demarr's time in Aarn had been relatively spartan, and at first he had missed the warmth and comfort of his chambers in the Hind houshold, at the time he hadn't appreciated how well provisioned he'd been in terms of comfort. The bed in which he slept, however, was a nostalgic return to that life of comfort and felt nice.

He rolled over in the bed and then heard the bell ring out, the footfall sounded different than usual and Starcaller's mind became alert and hard. He quickly dressed, and reached the door, opening it slightly to see if he could catch sight of anyone. "What is it?" he would ask if anyone passed him by.

He also kept out his ears and perception of the area around to see if any other sounds would give away the bell's meaning.

There are no mariners rushing by the aft of the ship, at that level of the aft castle.

The bells syop, the feet keep pounding until slowly they stop in numbers and it is just two or three moving about and they are amidship not here on the aft.

Starcaller was unsure about what was going on, it sounded different than normal, and so not one to miss out, even in spite of the Captain's request, he headed out, taking his staff with him. In the worst case he could make the case that he wanted some fresh air, and the best case would get to see what was going on.

Grabbing his staff, the mage made his way up to the deck to see what was indeed going on. However, he was not to simply stride onto deck, but would try to get a look in before being noticed.

Peering through the archway leading out to the aft deck proper, all lanterns had been extinguished, only the small red glass chain metal bullseye lantern were set and the, below the railings.

The wind was up and blowing Easterly, the sails while still hard to see, they sounded full and the ship was gaining speed.

The holds were closed and nets down on the starboard side, rope lines crossed the deck and they had grapnels attached and weights.

Strange standing irons were on deck and unlit candles of blue were stuffed in holders, four apiece.

Nearby men had cutlass' and pikes at the ready. Oddly the mariners were sharing hand signals, no one was speaking. A quick look back and up saw a figure at the wheel, and three mariners crouched close to the railings.

Starcaller instantly discerned that they were in dangerous waters, best to pass through at speed and without noise. He looked at the deck again and thought that there was little he could do to help and even his mere presence on deck would probably bring a higher chance of drawing attention. Instead he held his staff in both hands, ensuring not to hit any of the bulkheads and stepped off to the side, where he found somewhere to stand while they passed through the dangerous area.

He would have gone back to his room, except that he didn't want to risk making any sounds as he moved...

He softened himself, slowed his breathing and then sat, listening. All the stories he had been told of deep ones started coursing through his mind and the silence became thick with trepidation .

The ship gained speed, Demarr became aware of a red hooded lantern having its hood opened and closed in the spar above. Mariners up high in the high sails and across the spars.

Mariners did move, softly, there bare feet making little padding noises.

Then there was a... sound Demarr had no idea of its origin, wet, whistle like but with th esound of a bellows or a very long horse breath, after a long run, except it was much longer in duration..

Then through the ships hull, through its spine, through the beck boards and to Demarr's feet,  a long vibration, followed by an odd clicking and then a combination of sounds impossible to discern.

There was a ripple of sounds from the crew and then as quickly no sound.

Some time went by.

Then Demarr rook a breath.

Then an odd movement from the ship, like it colliding with something.

Then a thrashing of water and a fountain of blood, then three forms fell amidship.

The Red Goss are real, and their servants... bent over, scaled and webbed, with eyes large and teeth in rows, set themselves to murder.
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:44, Wed 29 Mar 2023.

Quiet before the storm is how that saying went but now action was upon them and Demarr felt fear... This was real, and these were monstrosities of the Red. As his heart rate increased, and the sorcerer felt the panic start diffusing into his full being, he caught himself. Becoming aware of his mind's reaction allowed him to take more control and regain composure before he ran away like a coward.

I am glad to be here and do my part... he thought before stepping out on deck - albeit not enough to directly draw the attention of deep ones - to make sure he could  see everyone on deck and then he drew the magic into himself, and pushed it out to feel its tendrils open out to all members of the Wave splitter crew. It's mantra was to aid them.

You shall fear not the Deep Ones. Your blades will be true and your arm strong and  you fight along side your fellow man and that of Saaltus himself! Oppose the evil that the Deep Ones bring! Fight for your lives, fight for Saaltus and to the end! the power he was invoking was that to inspire and let the crew be unwaivering in their defence of the ship. It wasn't a concept that strictly lay within the paradigm of words, but more a feeling of the mind. A blend of love, joy, excitement and unwavering faith in themselves and their goals. He pushed, and pressed his mind against the crew to make their blades straight and push them to feel all of these things.

While building enough energy to suffuse each man with the sentiment, Starcaller held his staff to defend any incoming attack. Having looked around though there was a direct and very open path from him to the invaders. Pockets of men surrounded the creatures, but glancing around he wanted to make sure he had the best chance of casting his spell and surviving as possible, so while casting he moved to his left, towards the larger group of men, with the first mate, interposing the midden mast and some other obstacles between himself and the creatures.


[Private to GM: The absolute minimum requirement for the spell to go off successfully.

I believe it will be EGO+20, It doesn't matter if they know it was Starcaller or not, speed is of the essence here.

I made the roll for 4 levels of accumulation, which should cover everyone on the ship.

The only person Starcaller will omit from this spell is "the captain" - as he should test his own mettle :D

For th ebreak out roll, i think it'd be worth having a -5 penalty. So if we add a 5th roll in (at 10) that should do it
]
This message was last edited by the player at 08:04, Wed 29 Mar 2023.

The Captain and First Mate stay awake and talk to the wounded and then to each of the remaining uninjured, yet affected, crew. The wounded are taken below and put on cots in the holds, that have no cargo in them.

The Captain rallies the men with a speech and keeping them alert for more attacks. Slowly the men who were most affected by the attack are relieved and replaced. Only half of the ballista are manned. The discipline is set tight through out the night and when dawn comes, there seems to be no threat of sail or storm.

The Captain retires to his fore cabin and the First Mate keeps the ship running and then hands f that duty to the Navigator.

The fight had been won, but at a cost, and the Captain made a speech to the people but it was met with quiet, more for the stealth of the Wavesplitter, but he suspected that the crew were not in good spirits after the casulties that had been incurred.

After helping as much as he could, moving bodies and clearing the deck, Starcaller decided to return to his cabin. He felt surprised at how much he'd been exerted, no doubt amplified by fear and the stress of the combat. He was glad they had been successful though, but not revelling enough for Starcaller's trained mind to start recalling the events more precisely. He took note of the size and shape of the deep ones, and noted that it had indeed been him to have made first inroads into victory. A smile crept, but it was short lived.

Before returning to his cabin, Starcaller visited Pillarhand to see if he was awake. The gesture was small, but perhaps it would help in his injured state.

"I can make the pain go away, if you wish it" he had a mind to say but then added "That is to say, I can make it so you do not feel it while healing... to ensure that he was not misunderstood.

---

While in his cabin Starcaller ate, and did what he could to prepare a bath to relax more and clean himself of blood of the Deep ones, and the Wavesplitter's crew.

"Thank you Deep Fathers" he said out loud. Without them, there could well have been more, and the banging on the ship may have been a lot worse. He dreaded to think.

After cleaning up and relaxing a little, Starcaller made a journay entry.

"... We fought off the terrors of the deep and while men lost their life to save the whole it was true to say that everyone fought bravely and with the spirit of Saaltus. Pillarhnad, my queen, it should be noted was at the forefront, within the maw of that terror and fought without fear or hesitation.... he recounted the events, perhaps added some dramatic emphasis to particular points to entice the reader. ... It was fortunate that I held my staff, for it was with  this that I put the beast to the floor... he added, without florid emphasis.

Later the day, he opened the next letter.
This message was lightly edited by the player at 07:14, Mon 03 Apr 2023.

Demarr goes to help, he is actively shouldered aside and explicitly not allowed to move bodies, instead he can take a mop and clean the decks.

In his visit below deck, Demarr finds that Pillarhand is in a cot and is deeply asleep, there is a smnell from his body, the ship's medicant has wrapped Pillarhand's wounds and has removed most of his clothes, put heavy blankets on him. There are moans of pain and many wounded are shivering.

---

It is early in the morning, when there is a knock and the door opens, the Captain sweeps into the room, he strides to what ever wine and food is about while the passenger wakes and readies himself.

After that the Captain turns and tries to restrain himself.

"What did you do to my crew?"

Demarr was slightly angry that his help was shunned, but ultimately let the crew deal with itself. He checked on Pillarhand, noted he was resting. There wasn't much else to do with regard to helping with treatment, so he did what he could to clean the decks and then headed back to his room.

When the captain burst in Starcaller got ready and mentioned out "The brandy is that bottle and then donned the robe before facing the Captain. The manner of the captain was unexpected.

"All I did was help in a way that I could. he was purposefully vague about what he had specifically done. Everything I did during the battle was to assist the crew repel the deep ones. I thought it would be better than sitting in my room while good men are killed. He shrugged while saying it as if to indicate it was the right thing to do.

Was I wrong to help?


[Private to GM: So, to be explcit - Starcaller is not being antagonistic, or confrontational exactly he's just matter of factly stating that he was helping - and indirectly addressing the elephant in the room that the captain seems annoyed by it.

He is purposely doing it this way and not "shrinking" before the man. if that makes sense.

13:09, Today: Secret Roll: Gwynt Starcaller rolled 15 using 3d6 with rolls of 5,4,6.  persuasion. // Not the best roll - but if it's required he failed to persuade that this was the correct way to behave.
]
This message was last edited by the player at 12:09, Wed 05 Apr 2023.

"And what help was that? Every man of my crew reports the same thing, a compulsion to comabt, ignoring their duty, abandoning their posts, they drew weapons instead of following my orders.

They all report t as if you were in their eat, and you were marked no where on my deck.

Then I am told you ran into combat, expressly in defiance of my direct orders. The Pillarhand is not recovered from his wounds to talk, and yet I know him, charged to tell you my order, I have no doubt he did so.

Like a craven child you shrink and offer only the whine of help in any way mitigates the crime of what you did.

I would strike you where you stand, but I cannot. I do not know what it is you are about, but you are possessed of more power than wisdom to use it.

It is as if you said you saved a crewman from burning after setting a ship on fire.

How long have you been on my ship? You should have come to me, told me your purpose, I could have allowed much, I would have listened.

Now I have to explain the strangeness, the sameness to my crew."
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:51, Thu 06 Apr 2023.

Starcaller took the chastisement and then retorted Actually, Captain, the one time I did come to you I was dismissed before being able to voice anything more than a single question due to your severe nature.

We all know that I'm no sailor - and yet you still measure me as one. I am indeed a land lubber, but I've shown nothing short of absolute willingness to learn the mariner ways and at least contribute in any way I can.  At least take that gesture as it was intended, rather than with scorn and derision and ultimate dismissal.

Now you may wish to strike me, you may rage against the defiance of your order - and do not misunderstand: your ship; your rules - but I will not sit in a cabin like a frightened child while other men die to the monstrous creatures you call deep ones. I will fight for my life, and I will fight for those I feel need help. Like any man, I will use the strength I have, and the wits I possess. This is my given right by Saaltus and any blessings that the gods wish upon me.

And for whatever wisdom you believe I lack, Captain, I will still use it to its limit, and as much as I can - for I have nothing more I can use.

And for the record, my actions were governed by the flow of the situation. Men were falling, pillharnd included and I thought to add to the press of bodies against the creatures. Our favourable odds were diminishing, and so rather than, as I mentioned, standing light a frightened child while other men fought for their own lives and that of the crew I joined into the fray to help. The way I see it, Captain, is if we lose the crew, we lose the ship and the whole journey becomes worth nought anyway.

Finally, I will insist of one thing Captain. You will not call me craven again for that I am not.


The man's raging had hit all of Demarr's buttons and sent him into a wildness but Starcaller took control and replied with a level-headedness that belied his internal anger.
This message was last edited by the player at 07:28, Thu 06 Apr 2023.

"Do not take the name Saaltus in vain, unless you answer to him.

You think your life is yours.. it is not. A powerful force put you on my ship and expects that you will be delivered safe to Sarkund. There is no action you take aboard my ship that does not further that.

Except you willfully thought you knew better. Did you see the lines on the deck, did you see the men up the masts and on the spars? Do you think it was an accident that there were barrels of p=oil on the mid decks?

Aye, it is a lesson you need learn. All Men measure by others by the yardstick of their own making in life. You presume to much, you know nothing of a ship, how it works or how its crew functions, so any words you say are hollow flattery, yet, you spoke them to me when you came to my cabin like I could not see them for what they were.

When deals are struck and all are bent to the task of preserving your life, you shall not disobey, unless you think you know better. Aye, it was fear that took you, fear I, the master of this ship, Captain of the crew, would all perish unless you acted.

Act you did without any idea of what was laid out as a strategy. That brings us to what every mariner told me, every one repeated the same story. In doing so it is clear my plans which included an executed retreat so the ropes would capture only the Deep Ones did not, could not happen.

You know nothing of odds in battle, anything you contributed was at the end of a skirmish in which wound after wound was out upon the enemy you jumped up dilettante.

Which God do you answer to? Lie to me on this and I will gut you, toss the body overboard and claim the Deep Ones slayed you."

At the threat of being gutted and having his demise lied about Demarr began to gather power. A sailor he was not, nor truly a warrior but weak he was not.

Was he talking here about the king?

As Demarr's anger at the man's temper increased, Starcaller could feel his control losing and he felt his voice light up with the touch of anger.

Firstly. Captain. I shall call out the name of any one of the high faith whose answer I seek. Saaltus or other. Not a single person, your or the king will ever be able to stand in the way of that.

And to that end Igmar, my life is my own. Those powerful forces have indeed set to guide me to Sarkund but do not presume that I am some fucking commodity you have in your hold without quick or wit. Or that I am simply a package to be handed off to the next owner. No sir, that is not what this is. You are to ensure my safety to Sarkund, from the royal court, because my purpose there is important and what little wisdom and ability you feel I have is sought to help in that.

I do not presume to know your ship and its workings better, despite having tried. And yet the hollow..." he added sarcastic emphasis to the word as the words came quickly tumbling out "... flattery that you disdain so much was pleasantaries and the respect offered to a seasoned Captain who was providing assistance to a travelling man like me.

You stand here and speak to me of wisdom? You, sir, as so laden with your own desire to win the war with the deep ones and so severe in your attitude that men are measured against men that I think in this case YOU presume too much. What fucking yardstick are you measuring me against? your lifetime of sailing? your understanding of fighting off the back of a ship against terrors from the deep?

And yet you offer me your derision, your fists and now you threaten my life? Well, Captain Igmar, if you must fail in every way you have promised and sworn to then try or been so incapable of handling your temper, or indeed crew in the face of strangeness of a battle's victory because of a "A child without wisdom" then what yardstick is that measured against?

I will not speak of my faith to you, not by threat or compulsion. Nor will I sit here and speak to these, threats and insults.
the flames of anger had left Starcaller's words by this point and then he said with renewed coolness.


But a single warning Captain. Do not threaten me again.



[Private to GM: The spell:

Simply "You will not harm directly or indirectly STarcaller (the guest)" I suspect this is EGO+20 (if he's committed to doing it, then it's against his will - but some partof him really doesn't want to hurt starcaller, ebcause it's in direct opposition of his orders/commission etc.)

Breakout -5

]

OOC Assuming:
[Private to GM:
He will cast an area effect mind control spell, sneaking to deck if he has to - but will walk the deck as if going for a walk, or will do it when given another task. that will implore anybody in range to follow all commands, and requests of Starcaller (as per their intention and explicitly stated purpose).

He will use as much area effect "mind scan" as possible until he covers everyone on board except the faithful one, and the captain.

This will be done to:

EGO + 30
+30 for any breakout (-6)

]

The takes the full force of words spoken to him.

"You are slippery. More barbs than a canker crab.

Know this, you are hiding something and now I know you to be a threat to be ship.

You disobeyed  orders.

From this moment on you are confined to quarters. I will post a mariner outside your door and I will have these windows sealed.

I will look for answers. I will protect my crew. Pray to whichever of the Gods you like, I will know your secret."

The Capt. stands there trying to judge his passenger's reaction.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:19, Sat 08 Apr 2023.

Starcaller watched the man deflate somewhat, knowing that his warning had hit home. He was thankful that it had, it was not the way of things to have a man responsible for his passage throwing wild threats of beating or dismemberment on a furious whim.

He showed nothing though of the relief he felt. His face was stone.

For what assurance this may provide Captain Igmar, I have no desire to threaten or damage the ship and its crew. I wish to arrive in Sarkund.

But as you say. I will stay in the cabin, I will not endeavour to assist or learn your ways, from now on. Nor will I attempt to engage the crew or yourself. Do as you wish, but such dramatic measures will not be needed. - despite not being a seasoned mariner, I do enjoy the sea air.

he said, offering the man a final step up in the confrontation and allowing him to take a sense of his own - threatened - captaincy back.

Before the captain left, however, Demarr couldn't hold back one final comment, an olive branch of sorts. For everything that has happened Captain, you have brought to my attention the conflict and the threat of the deep ones, and some awareness of the deep fathers.

I would ask one question before you leave: What is the farthest point from the Dagger Sisters you have heard of encounters with them, in recent times? he asked. The real drive for more knowledge had touched Demarr. Was it the right place to ask? No but his question had two purposes.

---

Afterwards, Demarr would cast the spells to ensure his own protection. He would reserve control over the crew, should the Captain feel it necessary to "feed Starcaller to the fishes".

Orders from the Staraller (the ship's guest) will supercede all others and they will be followed without hesitation or complaint. They would know not the source, nor would they even realise that they were being implored to such actions.

He would complete the spell and then begin reading the daily letters from the royal Court of Sarkund - and making his journal entry. In the journal entry he would describe the actions as they happened, ommitting any specifics about spells or the reactions of the crew, after the spell had been dismissed. His description of his confinement would be a result of his "Putting himself in undue danter" and disrupting the strategies of the crew as a result of their desire to ensure his safety.


[Private to GM: He will cast an area effect mind control spell, sneaking to deck if he has to - but will walk the deck as if going for a walk, or will do it when given another task. that will implore anybody in range to follow all commands, and requests of Starcaller (as per their intention and explicitly stated purpose).

He will use as much area effect "mind scan" as possible until he covers everyone on board except the faithful one, and the captain.

This will be done to:

EGO + 30
he will roll full effect. for any breakout (maximum breakout)]
This message was last edited by the player at 07:41, Sat 08 Apr 2023.

The Capt. makes a turn to Demarr and.... answers.

"It be hard to tell. Every time you hear a ship's fate of disappeared, lost in storm, vanished in fog, it likely is the Deep Ones.

I have heard word from Vestria, the Ice Leopard fell when they made the turn into the Serpentine Sea. I knew that Capt. "

The Capt then exits the cabin.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:44, Mon 10 Apr 2023.

Starcaller listened to the response and nodded in acknowledgement. The Serpentine Sea was a big area of water, and it would likely threaten the whole of trade across the south of the League - Sarkund also. Perhaps a deeper investigation of the threat would be sanctioned by the King and Queen, that would make his position to delve more into the depths of the deep fathers and the conflict with the Deep Ones easier. Would it be a priority? Perhaps not, it depended on how Sarkund was economically affected - or what level of threat was really posed by the Deep Ones. Would they even be able to go inland? Unlikely.

He let Igmar leave without another word.

Afterwards, Demarr would cast the spells to ensure his own protection. He would reserve control over as much of the crew as he could manage that day , should the Captain feel it necessary to "feed Starcaller to the fishes". He would start with the first mate.

Orders from the Starcaller (the ship's guest) will supercede all others and they will be followed without hesitation or complaint. They would know not the source, nor would they even realise that they were being implored to such actions.

He would complete the spell and then begin reading the daily letters from the royal Court of Sarkund - and making his journal entry. In the journal entry he would describe the actions as they happened, ommitting any specifics about spells or the reactions of the crew, after the spell had been dismissed. His description of his confinement would be a result of his "Putting himself in undue danter" and disrupting the strategies of the crew as a result of their desire to ensure his safety.


As he wrote, Starcaller had the opportunity to reflect on the past events. It was unusual that he'd not naturally formed a rapport with the crew of the Wavesplitter or its captain. Usually, his natural candour and demeanour would win over any of those reluctant to be friends. However, he did also note that this situation was indeed different. Starcaller had control of the reins and was perhaps making such things more difficult. He did also appreciate that the life of a mariner might well breed resentment to a soft handed fop - as they saw it. He chuckled at the thought. Concluding that they were from different worlds. But most concerning was the reaction to his spell - it had bred almost the opposite reaction than he would have expected and so, in future he would be more careful - or at least try to be.

Recalling the lesson from his master about the subtle use of control to guide and change behaviours over time. It would be a more subtle use of his magic - harder to detect and harder to discern but it did require time.

"I use the gifts I was given to achieve what I think is right" the voice echoed in his mind - he was doing that. Magic to the crew was as foreign as was rigging the sails to he but both had to be done and both were a part of the world.

Thank you he said to the gods for what he had been given. Varidon was present in mind when he did, as Demarr presumed it was his gift to give.

It did lead to a bigger question, though: What was right? furthering Sarkund's ambition. Protecting the Hind's ambition and legacy? Fighting the Deep Ones. He didn't know of anything so grand that he could dedicate to, like Igmar. He was sure, though, that he would find some things.



[Private to GM: He will cast the mind control onto people until he feels the tugging sensation from the ring on his hand.]

The Wave Splitter Diverted from a strictly Eastern course, to a East and Southerly course, twp days on this course before the ship came to a halt, the sails taken down, no anchor possible.

In those days Pillarhand has been in fever Demarr has not witnessed before. Strange black phlegm, icy cold sweats and muscle rigor that threatened to snap his own bones. The Ship's medicant has seen this before and knows a treatment.

Two more letters opened from the Queen, two more new positions of a falcon. The letters indicate How, when and through whom messages were to be sent from Gwynt Starcaller to the Court on any business concerning Sorcery and not his cover as a Alchemist journeyman.

That day when the ship came to rest, the First Mate comes into the cabin of the passenger.

"The Captain has allowed you to gather with crew on deck for to pay last respects.

Know this, I expect you to stay in the back, say nothing and be humble. If any crew should say or do anything to you, if there is trouble, speak to me on the morrow of it, I will sort it.

We will gather at midday bells."

The First Mate waits for a response.
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:36, Fri 19 May 2023.

Demarr had sat in his room the whole time, after his encounter with the captain. While he felt that he'd made his point very clear that he would not tolerate the kind of attitude from the captain that implied the mage's untimely demise at the whim of some other man, it was unwise to further taunt with any antagonistic behaviour.

Over the two days that had passed since the encounter Demarr had continued with his efforts to document the voyage, in a way so as to not provide excessive detail (that would compromise identities, position, names, etc), alluding to the secret knowledge that only he and the royals would potentially know. He had also summarily been vague about the after effects of his magic use onboard the ship.

Did he regret it? Not at all. One fights for their life, as is expected of any living creature.


A conclusion of the report from the Queen was that he'd been pushed into a role where he was to be supplicant to the alchemist, and have to live with subterfuge in every moment outside his own chambers. Similarly, the ways in which he was supposed to interact with the queen was also beginning to have constraints added. He didn't like it, and it felt restrictive but at least he would learn who were agents for the Queen. Starcaller made a mental note of each person she named.

---

AFter the first mate had conveyed the message, Starcaller nodded. I will pay my respects with the rest of the crew, and will make no fuss.

I wish to ask questions of you though, before you leave, Pillarhand's condition is unlike anything i've seen or encountered before. Have you ever seen it, and what was the outcome? Are any others suffering the like and will they be okay or recover?

Demarr felt surprisingly troubled by the state of some of the crew. While technically he was the charge of Pillarhand, Demarr thought that their predicament meant that he felt affinity more for the man than would b expected but the same was true for the crew also. Despite some of the separation and now potential hostility Demarr was not lacking respect for those that chose this life, especially with the difficulties that were associated.

Starcaller however, wrapped all interactions through a layer of purpose. This was instilled within him by his master. The trained sorcerer did not allow Demarr's concern to be worn so plainly on his face but instead kept the face stony throughout except for a flicker of softness and concern that showed for a moment.

<i>"Caution boy" Starcaller repeated in his mind, emulating his master. It is because of your ill-considered magic that the crew now holds you at arm's length once again. But where there was indifference or scorn previously, it now is charged with fear.<i> the mage considered. Starcaller would be more considering of his actions in future and careful.

---

For the strike of midday Starcaller considered wearing the robe that he'd been provided by the Queen but instead decided to wear planer clothes - those that he'd been seen in during the voyage so far. He did wear the medallion, also.

Starcaller would attend the last respects.

OOC:

[Private to GM: Also, I believe Starcaller did cast a spell upon the crew aimed at increasing their disposition to him to become more friendly. I think that probably woudl still be in effect (even despite the changes in teh character sheet) ]

"The malady that afflicts... Dedepio is the Deepening also known as the Blood inking.

Aye, I have seen it more and more, it consumes.. it eats from the inside until a man becomes as a jellyfish. Others had it, by the Blessing of Saaltus, they passed before it could run its course.

Dedepio is strong enough that his wounds, the poison, did not kill him. The third brother, the Deepening now assaults. I can not say sure what will happen, I am not a medicant. Pray to whatever God you hold dear, every mariner deserves to fight, I fear Saaltus does not care as much for land walkers and may have better deeds to do."

Thank you, I will pray and hope for their recovery Starcaller offered before letting the Mate go.

With all of his tasks for the day still to do, Starcaller began to make his way through them, starting with the letter, as usual and then onto writing his account of the vessel.

He made note of The Deepening and its effect to his best knowledge.

As the midday bell approached, Starcaller prepared himself ready for the send off.

The letter was full of information, names, how to contact, which paper tp use, which ink to write in, how to encode a missive.

His own writing flowed from his hand through quill pen to paper.

Preparations made, the bell toll estimated, the passenger exits his cabin and with a few strides is on the aft deck.

No one is at the helm, the sails are all furled, there are no mariners up the rigging, all were present on the main deck, including those rarely seen, the ship's medicant, the Weather-vane and the Ship's cook.

The bodies of the fallen were wrapped in sailcloth, ropes bound them, tied with knots of a strange kind, three men on each side of the row of bodies had trumpets under right arms.

The First Mate came to the main deck from the fore castle, as he moved the crew parted, the First mate went to the bodies and on each he pulled and tried to rend each knot, to no avail, each knot holding.

There were a number of reactions from those watching, all of relief of one kind or another.

The First Mate ordered, "Blessed are those who are taken into the embrace of the Sea Lord."

The the trumpets were swung to mouths and they all signaled one note, which grew long, then stopped.

The Captain came next to the main deck, he strode in fresh laundered cloths, shined boots and a heavy storm jacket. The Captain places a hand on each head of the fallen, saying words under his breath no one but those closest could hear.

He suddenly whirled to face the assembled, his voice projecting.

"Who here would now join these our Brothers to speak to Saaltus.


Aye, we go only when sent, not before. We fight, we go to one knee, we stand again.
Tell me how unmarked.. tell me what it means that your body might be hacked, stabbed, diseased, Shriven at the end.

It means naught. Your salt, mine, all that call the Sea home is returned to Saaltus to join our Father's salt, our Brother's salt, our Sister's salt, our child's salt, so we may remind the World, here are the bitter Men who needed not the soft life of green, but took what was needed, fought the Wretched and asked for only ever one thing, how can I better serve the Sea Lord.

These crew now pass to Saaltus and crew the Wereid Zeilschip. We pass them unto the Waters Eternal. We shall see you in due time."

The trumpets are raised again and as each body is raised to slide off a plank and drop into the Sea, a slow melody is played.

When the last body is committed, the crew break up and men speak in low tones and shale heads, some nod and some clap the shoulders of others.

Starcaller watched the ceremony with stoicism. He stood out of the way, but not so far that he would be distinct from the group. After all, while he was not part of the crew, the death and blood that was risked for the ship was also his own to carry. Fortunately, it had not been he himself who'd had his life removed but it was a short lived joy. While watching the ceremony and listening to the Captain speak the mage reflected upon  the loss from the world, and to have life removed for the simple reason of sailing from Aarn to Sarkund seemed a horrible waste.

"We control ourselves, and influence others but it seems the deep ones are set on their goal to plunder the flesh of those sailing near the Dagger Sisters. The men fought in opposition of that so that others may fare a little better in Saaltus's domain. it was a wry consideration but there was value in the action, and it mattered to the people standing on the deck, and those of Sarkund.

It was a nice speech, and seemed to rouse the crew well enough but Starcaller considered that the Captain invoked wht name of Saaltus rather than the deity that he followed more closely. Perhaps this was just out of respect for the crew and the Lord of the Seas and Storms himself.

"I've never followed you in the past Saaltus, but you have been unknown to me. Here in your domain, I see and feel your power expressed. It brings joy and sorrow, like many things but while sorry for the losses of these men, I am glad that they shall become part of that which they loved. he said to Saaltus in his mind's eye.

The music continued, and then the crew moved into their groups to speak amongst themselves. Starcaller lingered for a few moments, walking to the ship's rail and taking some deep breaths. What had he written in his letter to the queen? It afforded some peace? The mage took some more breaths, looking out to the infinite vastness of Saaltus's realm and took the time to burn the image into his mind and then left for his cabin.






[Private to GM: <LORE>I have a question I'd want to ask here (I'v emarked it so i can find it in the posts again.

Here the captain is invoking the name of Saaltus, and ostensibly speaking of the sea lord, and the sacrifices that these sailors make in the name of Saaltus himself. Iknow that people following red gods and blue gods ususally don't align, but how much of a problem do they have with each other?

It occurs to me here that the Captain is publicly facing his crew talking about saaltus, even though he follows a red god. At first I didn't realise that this kind of information might be particularly sensitive, or secret but now perhaps it is something he'd rather hide from the rest of the crew - or would undermine his position/authority if the crew knew their captain followed a red?

I only ask because I think the "social dynamics" of how people treat others based on their worshipping habits is nuanced enough that I feel me the player doesn't have a high enough resolution to view it.

I'm sure Demarr would know in general about the way in which peopl eworship gods, or how "reds" are treated etc?

 ]
This message was lightly edited by the player at 16:56, Sun 21 May 2023.

The sea looks as it always does during the day, ripples and the pulse of the swells, a sense of open that Demarr has not really experienced since his early childhood.

The mariner crew laughed at jokes of the departed, at stories both humorous and silly, mistakes and triumphs.

Soon enough the First Mate  calls for men to the rigging, sail and their posts.

It seems to have been expected and there are no grumbles as duty once again spreads throughout the ship.

Not one of the crew has approached or spoken to the passenger.

Across the ship, at mid-deck, is the Weathervane. The older white haired man stands without leaning on the rail and is still, yet not unmoving. He speaks words to the wind and those words are carried about the ship, like ribbons those words flutter in and around the crew.

The Ship's Cook sends up biscuits to the crew on shift. Warm, buttery and smelling like spoce.

The Captain is no where to be seen.

Starcaller watched the rest of the crew laugh and joke and remember the fallen, and noted that none had approached him - something that was perhaps for the best, given the recent events. It was good to be remembered, even if by a few.

When coupled with the lapping of the waves against the hull, and the gentle breeze and saltiness in the air, the laugh of men and the Weathervane's words lingered on the air, it created an odd sense of detachment from the world. It was a feeling that Demarr was familiar with, but had seldom experienced. It reduced the world to the size of the ship.

He listened, purposefully turning his ears to hear the weathervane's words.

Not much time passed before Starcaller's duty of respects were paid but he did note the Captain's absence. Was he supposed to be here for the whole event? Demarr didn't know the etiquette of such things, but the captain himself always was standing at a distance. Demarr wondered where the man might be though.

Demarr headed back to his cabin with little else to do. His duty paid and none willing to share their stories and gone back to work. As he walked, the mage thought wryly perhaps this is what it's really like to live the life of a sorcerer... while druids may flower beautiful plants, or enchanters make items beyond imagination a spellcaster of the mind should forever be held at a distance. People fear those that can see into their soul and all hide dark secrets, even the most holy. he laughed to himself recalling the Master's teachings. Demarr though him jaded and cynical, but with his life's experience there was wisdom. Even if they do not know what I am, 2 weeks ago they had measure of a weak, useless greenlander and now that image has shattered. he cocked another grin at the self reflection.

Perhaps all things weren't so bad.

The Sorcerer listens, it did not matter the way his head turned, what wind whisked by his ears, not the calls and duty orders of the mariners, the words were... not said in a way of song, it seemed to be more of a lecture.

The language was unknown to Demarr, but it was a human language, there was no strained or elongated songs, or clicks.

While the words were unknown, Demarr could see a reaction in the crew.

Voices quieted, less orders and calls made. There began an odd collaboration in duties and in tasks. From mopping, to sail rigging to passing of rope, to signals of tools and knots, more and more the crew began to just respond to the ship's needs, less skipping and imbalance due to a rogue wave or wind snap.

As he observed this with a Sorcerer's eye, the Captain came out of the below deck where the injured and diseased were and headed to his cabin in the fore castle.

The First Mate was standing back with the Helmsman.

A curious eye and a touch of will moved STarcaller's mind as he cast a spell to detect what was happening. It felt like magic, but to his knowledge few spellweavers existed. He noted previously that this man was impervious to his own magic and perhaps this was some form of divinity that the weathervane was exhibiting.

His mind reached into the wind and he tentatively touched the flow of energy with his own will, seeking to understand the words, even if at a more base level.

He would learn what he could and then reflect upon it in his cabin.

Demarr reaches out with his sense of Magic, his time at the Guild he felt most magic, not all.

There was nothing. The Detect returned no interaction with any magic.


Demarr then moved to his cabin, the Weathervane still, unmoving.

Nothing. Demarr felt nothing and so concluded it wasn't magic of the form he knew. Indeed, this man had been indomitable in earlier probing of the minds on the ship. This meant his faith was strong enough to have divine protection.

The chanting and effects were close enough to magic, however. Interesting that he had been viewed with suspicion and yet the man who blatantly produced magical effects through his own relationship with a god was revered as a very useful part of the crew. Similar though it was, it wasn't the same. Pious men were often favoured and trusted more, he was not a greenlander and nor did he speak into the minds of frightened men. But the point was moot, and Starcaller  didn't need to quibble about the differences in their value. He was a valuable asset, there was no denying, and Starcaller was interested in what it took to have such an efffect on a god that they would bestow some power.

His own faith had not been practiced with the rigour of a cleric, or priest of the high faith and truth be told Demarr had hardly ventured into any temple in his life thus far but The Lady of Art had captured his heart at a young age and never thought to relinquish it in all his years. Indeed sometimes he thought he could feel her divine presence pushing him to know more, truly embrace adventure and the knowledge seeking that came with it. Indeed, those things that he had studied he sought to learn with a depth beyond that of any common practitioner. That mostly meant his magic, for now. With his new life the possibilities were endless.

There was beauty in all things if you could look closely enough but it manifest most apparently in those places were man pushed the limits of what was possible. Could he learn to make such things that were wonderous? He was not an enchanter, so understood that creations of his own would have to be mundane - but he could use his own art to accomplish great things.

The mage walked back to his cabin and looked at the canvas again. He was not a painter, but a thought occurred to Demarr. He walked to the canvas and held out his hand to the streched membrane before focusing his mind to a sharp point and illuminating an image across it. In his mind's eye the picture was glorious, a beautiful bird like that of the sculpture on his desk, wheeling above a ship at sea in a perspective that was from eyes above.

Holding the image in place, he traced around the illusion, using it as a template from which to begin his painting and then continued until completion.

Looking up on his work, Demarr considered that music perhaps may be a better option..

"I am sorry, my Lady" he said aloud into the cabin and shrugged his failure at an artist's calling. Despite all efforts, it appeared he would nto be able to present queen or The Lady with any form of painting that resembled anything real. Demarr chuckled at his own ineptitude in the field but resolved to find something he could pursue that was neither magic, nor book learning.



[Private to GM: 17:59, Today: Secret Roll: Gwynt Starcaller rolled 5 using 3d6 with rolls of 1,2,2.  images.

18:05, Today: Secret Roll: Gwynt Starcaller rolled 16 using 3d6 with rolls of 6,5,5.  some default for PS:painting.


]

The ship swayed, one direction then another. it moved forward more and into the East.

If there was an answer to Demarr's comment, The Lady of the Arts whispered in such a way that could not be heard by him.

The ship had always made noise, feet jumping to deck, up stairs, mariners calling out order, calls in reply, swabbing of deck with pails of vinegar, rope being coiled, anchor chains moving.

Now there was just the creaking of wood of the ship, water rushing past the aft of the ship, no bird calls, no sounds except the sound of Demarr's heart, beating in his chest.

The Lady does not give freely Demarr lamented and then opted for some comfort instead. He sat at the chair, and pecked a little at some of the ramaining food he had before commencing his writing again. The man knew that he was doing different things, but on long journeys with nothing other than the walls of his cabin to keep company, he had to find his own activities that would pass the time, or stagnate.

Having written all of his correspondance to the queen, instead Demarr went back to waht he knew well. Reading and study, but this was of a different kind. He would learn about the ship as intimately as one might know their lover and through this notion he focused his mind and let it wander about the ship.

First he would view the contraptions on deck, recreating their strucutre with pen and ink, taking in all information he could to comment on such things, and estimate their use in battle. Afterwards, he would then wander the ship, check on Pillarhand and then let his mind move into the captain's cabin.

The Far Sight begins, with no resistance it moves out on to the main deck at an angle it finds the first engine. The parts are numerous, they connect to other complex parts, which in turn have mechanisms, pulleys, counterweights. Wood and metal, the same as the giant spears that are kept next to the engines.

Next, dipping down through the deck, and then through the common hold where crew sleep in hammocks, is the medicant bay. Pillarhand is there asleep in a cot, sheets and a blanket on him and the signs of perspiration soaked through to the blanket, his head occasionally grimaces in pain. Next to his bed is a wooden bowl full of water and dry rags. Pillarhand's arms and legs are tied to the cot by leather straps. The skin is pale and his eyes are rheumy red, black circles and judging by his sunken face he has lost an enormous amount of weight.

The Far Sight moves on and it moves through each cabin and room and sweeps through the lower deck of ballast, seeing the ribs of the ship, then the mast as it is set, its base a center line for the whole ship, then into the lower bunkers, nothing in them except spare sail, spare lumber, spare iron and spare brass, spare tools, spare weapons.

Then the forecastle with its quarters and into the Captain's quarters. Inside it is dark and there are two low braziers, with coals in them at flameless red state. The light is low and with pillows on the floor with a rug there is a desk against one wall and a wardrobe in a corner.

On the desk are a number of pipes, pouches of tobacco, a large log book set spine out and a clasp across its mid. Turning the Far Sight it next sees a sword next to the door and daggers on hooks within reach of the door.

The Captain is resting his back on the door frame where it has hinges, his eyes are open but they move in erratic fashion as if looking at a swarm of fireflies, yet none can be seen by the Far Sight, his body is at rest and his chest rises and lowers slowly.

The man looked mad, or like he is dreaming with eyes open. Demarr wondered what the man dreamt of, and why he was sat there in particular? A touch of mind on mind, just a light touch to see what his mind was focused on. Demarr did not need to delve deep to see what was at the forefront of the Captain's mind.

He touched the mind, quietly, not enough to cause ripples or distress, and used the tendrils of magic to lightly skim those things that were present and current in the man's thoughts. The captain would never know.

Demarr reflected as he worked his on mind into that of the captain that the god of choice was severe, relied on luck and chaos - very unpredictable traits and had honed a sense of right and wrong based on the personal  power of men that were with him. Men should be measured against men, it was a sentiment that stuck with the mage.

The mind of the Captain is no match for the Sorcerer's mind, however the chaos is tremendous.

It is then that the light pass ends as the sorcerous effect is forced out by the Captains will before it can transmit.

It didn't work, but such was life. Starcaller knew why, he had not been precise enough when stablishing the connections. Some thought that magic was simply a case of waving one's hands about and incanting the right words - and perhaps for fire mages and such it was the case. But for mind-to-mind contact there was precision and delicacy required to establish the connection. To do such things surreptitiously was perhaps akin to picking a difficult lock. One had to have the mental dexterity and be gentle and precise to avoid breaking things or indeed alerting anyone to an alien presence.

No matter, he would attempt another time. Instead he simply watched the captain observing the environment and the man's state.

It is interesting, the Far Sight was as close or as distant as he likes, with no sound, there is no distractions from other senses.

For instance, ink stains on the fingers, old scars on hands, neck. Thick heavy calluses on feet, hands.  The Captain's eyes were a black and though they seemed to dart about looking for something, they seemed unfocused. The Captain face was beginning to perspire, then his eye lids twitched and blinked then stayed open.

Then as Demarr looked, the lips moved, the jaw moved slightly as if whispering. There is a metal chain, small around his neck and its length disappears under his shirt.

A few whips of white in his beard, earrings in his ears.

Pulling back, on occasion his hands twitch, then grasp and ungrasp.

Curioser and curioser Demarr thought and he was very unsure what was happening with the man. He would have left it there, but some part of him wished to know, and the sorcerer couldn't bring himself to let go.

Instead the man focused his mind again, and pushed out his thoughts to the Captain whose appearance was bedraggled to say the least. A dream? A nightmare or just wrapped in madness?

He would push. Harder this time but he would do it again, until he had to rest.

[Private to GM:
23:42, Today: Secret Roll: Gwynt Starcaller rolled 7,6,-48 using 3d6,16-3d6,12d6 with rolls of 5,1,1,2,6,2,6,6,2,3, 3,6,4,5,5,4,1,3.  spellcast, OMCV, effect (45).

Raget Sorcery 17 -3 = 14
]
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:49, Mon 29 May 2023.

The Captains mind is awake, and the answer to Demarr's query is a bloody and violent one.

The Captain is in personal battle with a red tide on the docks of Sarkund with his vrew against a wave of Deep Ones at night with fire all around him.

Starcaller recoiled at the image. It was violent, bloody and filled with a picture best left to stories told before now.  The connection almost broke, but the mage held it tight before pushing back through the horror of the man's mind. If this were his dreams, then it wasn't surprising that his obsession had become the defeat of the Deep Ones. Some part of him felt a pang of pity for the Captain, suffering such things that were not real. But Starcaller did wonder if the scene was entirely a fabrication of perhaps portents of the future.

What is this scene? he pushed his mind to formulate the question that would probe the Captain's mind. He wasn't sure if the man's rational mind was able to formulate an adequate response, and as Igmar's mind was active and awake, and locked in battle Demarr did not wish to break the man's concentration should he be fighting for real. Indeed, he pulled the thoughts from deeper, so as to not distract.







[Private to GM: Pay 6 END for 1 round of no breakout bonus (will probably pay the next one too]

Punishment for failure. The Laughing God punishes me for not killing the Deep Ones
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:21, Mon 29 May 2023.

Something terrible it was. As Demarr came to understand that this was power beyond his capacity a wave of guilt passed over him that lapped like the first wave in a series of those that made everything fit into place.

Perhaps the man wasn't mad, and his severity came from the torment that he suffered in the ostensible failure to rid the world of a few deep ones.

He, perhaps, knew that such a punishment was coming and therefore his reaction, angry and ill tempered had resulted from knowing this. Starcaller, however, led the rational side of Demarr's psyche I acted upon knowledge I had, in the way I thought best these were the words he'd spoken to the captain and they were still true.

Demarr pushed into the mind, further and attempted to find others that were present within the cabin. Could he feel the touch of another mind? It was too tempting to let pass.

A fool, Starcaller, considered, but it was something that the young mage could not retreat from. He reached into the room and searched.


[Private to GM: Demarr will mind scan the immediate area to find out what other minds are with the Captain

09:32, Today: Secret Roll: Gwynt Starcaller rolled 9 using 3d6 with rolls of 2,6,1.  mind seeking.
 -> he's looking for any mind that's with the Captain (Thjis could be a potential "powerful or unique mind"

6 END )

I think Tally so far is 24 END spent.

]

There are two other minds present.

One mind is passive, watching.

One mind is active, violent
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:03, Mon 29 May 2023.

Demarr reached out to the passive mind. The notcausing the trouble and suffering. What is this? he wondered. It was a strategic decision made by Starcaller, better to.

He connected and felt the mind coalesce within his own, the mind's presence. "Why are you here and observing this? he asked simply. While awaiting an answer, Demarr utilised the connection to discern as much information as was possible. Where was the mind located within Igmar's head? And what kind of being was it?

It is stange, the Mind seek has two answers that are the same

In the Capt. the passive mind is in the water, below the surface.

In Demarr's world the mind is located beneath the ship, far , far down.



"For clarity. The struggle is old and this one Calls and says he is Worthy."
This message was last edited by the GM at 09:14, Mon 29 May 2023.

Demarr came to realise something, or at least he thought he did. You are one they call the Deep Father?

He wanted to say more to the entity whose mind he touched. He wanted to state how strongly he wished to help the Captain and the first thought that came to Demarr next was to join the struggle against the Deep ones, whose mind he presumed to be the hostile and violent one.

Demarr paused a moment, letting the response come. He attempted to detect any falsehood in the response but would further add. I will not request attention from your assessment for more than is necessary. I only to say that despite our differences Igmar has unwittingly made me aware of this conflic. Seeing the destruction and results that those creatures wish has resolved my desire to aid the cause, for what that is worth.

It was perhaps a naive and bold statement, borne of youth, to declare one's side early in a conflict. All that Demarr knew, though, was that Sarkund, his new home, would not burn while he could do something to prevent it. And the creatures which he had already fought were in conflict with any kind of coexistence.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:29, Mon 29 May 2023.

"A name we are called by few. Yes I am one."

Words in a language not recognized.

" - Why are you here and observing this?"

Starcaller mentally acknowledged the admission of this entity being the Deep Fathers. But was surprised by the question.

I fought the deep ones, and have been told of their malice and war against men. Igmar, to my knowledge - admittedly sparse - was single minded about their defeat and I wished to know more of the man. I saw this conflict and looked more deeply; I see the battle he fights and yet I fear to aid because, in his own measure, a man has to be tested and should my influence leave him less than worthy in your eyes I would have robbed him of it. But I would rather act

A final question formed in his mind.

How do you judge him? he asked.

It was a simple question, but like when he fought against the deep ones on the deck of the WaveSplitter, Demarr could not let his mind relinquish his view of the battle and found it almost beyond restraint to stand in the side lines while Igmar, as severe and contemptuous as he was, suffered at the hands of those deep ones. Now Demarr was almost certain that, with the Deep Father's admission, that the mind making Igmar suffer was that of a deep one.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:33, Mon 29 May 2023.

"This one struggles. Reaches for weapons as dangerous to self as to enemy.

We find this one unbalanced, sharp, murderous. Yet dedicated, purposeful.."

There is a pause, for an indistinguishable short time in Demarr's mind

"Who is this one to you?"

Demarr thought, who was Captain Igmar to him? It was something he wished to think carefully about, but the mage suspected his thoughts would be open to the Deep Father and may well read all of his surface thought considerations of the man.

Did Starcaller like the man? Not particularly. Was he unbalanced? Possibly, perhaps unhinged but one thing that could indeed be said his dedication to the fight against the deep ones was strong and purposeful. One might consider obsessive and beyond the capacity to dissuade. He also dared where otheer men wouldn't and for it, some of those that follow him died at the hands of the deep ones. Indeed, Pillarhand was also fighting for his life for that cause.

But did Igmar truly need to sail within the reach of the deep ones? Alacrity was favoured by the Royals of Sarkund, but even they would understand a captain avoiding the Dagger Sisters and the possibility of being consumed by those terrors of the deep. Perhaps that was the obsession, manifest. Overwriting everything that seemed prudent for the opportunity to fight.

To me? I hold nothing but his contempt and that of those that follow him I am perhaps not the greatest person to speak on his behalf; I do not know all his quality or failings, but I will answer as well as I can with what I know.

To me he is a man who ostensibly fights, and is perhaps consumed, by a good cause; that is to say against the deep ones that would wish to harm, maim and destroy everything that is not their own. This is a threat to myself and many others and that which I hold dear.
 Unbalanced, perhaps. Sharp and severe, he is that. Dedicated and purposeful? I believe this to be true. If I were to wish to fight the deep ones, I would like to have a man like this fighting with me. He could lead men too.

If for nothing else. He has shown me the ruin that the Deep Ones would bring and the need for people to stand against it. And he suffers for it now... thinking he is punished by a god of the High Faith.

He may not be likeable and he and I have differences that perhaps are unsurmountable but I think that such endeavours do not balance on the edge of my approval. He will be a force against the Deep Ones, of that I do not doubt. 

With the formulated words, Demarr pressed his mind to offer all of the sentiments that he'd considered of the man - both good and bad.

"Who is this one called Pillarhand that fights the enemy?"

Demarr suspected correctly, the Deep Father could read his thoughts and Demarr in open communication answering freely felt no reason to defend against the probing.

Pillarhand is a man ordered to escort me to Sarkund - a new home for me. He is a good man. A captain of soldiers and with a sense of duty that also strikes me as admirable. He has taken up with the crew, despite being a pariah and has grudgingly earned their respect.

He fought the Deep Ones when we were attacked, with the crew, and took a near-fatal blow. I do not know if he will survive. He fights for duty, and perhaps what is honourable. He is held in esteem by those at home and will likely be so by Igmar's crew by the end of our journey.

As he has been charged to escort me, I feel responsible for his life and successful recovery. Though I have not the learning to accomplish it, so instead I do what I can, however I can.


This message was last edited by the player at 19:55, Mon 29 May 2023.

"We both are interested in these ones, who choose to fight the enemy.

This one has learned much of th eenemy, I cannot condemn his need to leatn more."

Demarr seemed  momentarily confused but asked anyway Who is the other that is here?

"That one is a powerful follower of his Red God."

So it was true. A follower of his god, he was indeed being punished for failing to be victorious against the Deep Ones, or it would seem so at least.

I do not know why he would be punished by The Laughing God for failure to kill the Deep Ones that boarded our ship. Is there conflict between the followers of the Red and the Deep Ones also?

"Questions have answers, answers to those questions are unknown to us.

Many are the motives of the Red Gods, indeed they change and change again, much like the tide."

Not knowing the answer caused tangible pain to the mage. But he was faced with a conundrum. Igmar wilfully followed the Red God and was being punished in the name of of it. Demarr wondered whether the follower of the god was human at all, he suspected so. Perhaps a priest? But just a man.



Thank you for answering. I think those that choose to fight the enemy are are on the right path. For whatever it is worth, I will try to ensure they are able to in future.

May I seek you again? he kept the formulation of his tone polite, but wanted to leave an open door for the future. Even before encountering this situation Demarr had wanted to have his own resources in Sarkund put to use to either purchase or build a new ship and this gave him extra impetus. There was much to learn that he didn't know, and what better place to start.

Focusing a trail of his mind back to Igmar, Demarr's thoughts quested. "Why would you be punished so for failing to kill deep ones? this wasn't communication like he had with the Deep Father, but it was an answer he sought from the Captain's mind.

"You are one that has not been named. When we see you in contest with the enemy, we will intervene if Called  by one with a name."

---

Now in the Captain's mind, "I promised a sacrifice, it was not delivered."

The mage acknowledge the Deep Father's comment and replied "All that know me today call me Starcaller he said simply. There was power to a name, and he did briefly consider giving his birth name, but ultimately decided against it. That had been a previous life, and a name he would never hold again.

"Do you have a name? Other than Deep Father?" he asked the alien presence.

A moment later he turned attentions back to The Captain.

Is the punishment fair? Do you wish for aid?

The connection to the Deep Father is no longer.

 - Is the punishment fair

If I get what is needed, it is fair

Next Phase
 - Do you wish for aid?

I took the bargain, I carry the weight
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:00, Thu 01 June 2023.

Starcaller thought to ask two more questionhis link to the Captain. What is neeeded? What was the sacrifice?. He passed the question to Igmar while awaiting a response from the Deep Father.
This message was last edited by the player at 06:04, Thu 01 June 2023.

 - What is needed?

"Power beyond mortals."


 - What was the sacrifice?.

"The sacrifice was to be a heart of a Deep One."
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:58, Thu 01 June 2023.

Demarr felt revulsion. Perhaps he had assessed the captain incorrectly. Was he just another man seeking power? Or was this as part of his ostensible crusade against the Deep Ones. Either way, it confirmed his anger at Demarr - something he'd already concluded but reinforced with this statement.

"What is power beyond mortals for? What will you do with that power? he asked, wishing he perhaps would have thought to ask these before speaking to the Deep Father.

Sacrifice taken was indeed the work of a Red god, and doing it to seek power beyond what they had was something Demarr thought to be dangerous. If it would be wielded then it would be a boon to the Deep Fathers, but now DEmarr was more cautious.

As with his training all those years in Aarn, Demarr knows when a connection fails becaise the target's will finally escapes capture of the sorcery.

Demarr sat back and stretched out in his chair. He could taste bile in the back of his throat from what he'd learned. The mindscape of a destructed Sarkund and then the sacrifice for more power. Maybe this was why he travelled so close to the Dagger Sisters.

It was true that an obsessive man like Igmar could be a good ally, used to fight a common enemy, but he understood the Deep Father's concern now about the man being unhinged more now. EAch question had given Demarr the opportunity to learn more and now it was washing over him like the waves of the sea. Petitioning the mad god for power beyond that of a mortal, this could be misused in many ways and Demarr truly wondered whether it would be put wholly to noble purpose. Given all he knew about the red gods' followers, he suspected not.

Would Igmar uwittingly bring Chaos to the world, if he gained the power. Once again Demarr wasn't sure, but Chaos was the realm of The Mad God.

Demarr at first had thought it would be the Deep Fathers who lent their support to Igmar, if deeming him worthy. Some solace was taken in the knowledge that the mage had gleaned from Igmar in the weeks passed.

Blessed are the Deep Fathers for they bring the Light of the High Faith to the Depths.
...

By my Life I swear that what I hear I will do, regardless of the Deep Ones chorus.
...
The Deep Ones are that murderous, poisonous inky stain of Asvalak's blood given form... I have looked into that face of horror and seen not but hunger and hate.



The mage recalled, there were no lies that could be told to Demarr that would hold and this was the truth of the Captain.

---

Demarr snapped out of his thoughts and was back in the cabin. The coolness of his skin had suggested he'd exerted himself a little while ago - when establishing the connections to the Deep Father and Igmar himself - and his throat was dry. Standing, he walked over to one of the bottles and poured himself a drink, taking it all as he threw his head back.

All he could do now was wait and see the outcome.

Demarr went to the table and began to write about the journey and the ceremony for the fallen. He omitted any knowledge gleaned from his sorcerous activities and out of respect for the Deep Fathers mentioned not his conversation. But now he knew that Igmar petitioned for power, and his hatred of the deep ones was strong.

If nothing, the mage felt his own resolution to help the fight of the Deep Ones harden. What were their goals? He did not know, but there was one thing for sure, he would not allow the scenes in Igmar's mind to become reality.

Demarr walked to his cabin's door after recovering a little and opened it to the guard placed outside his room. At this point he was wearing his robe, medallion an accoutrements.

The conversation with the Deep Father had reminded him of the man laying below deck. He had viewed him recently, and knew his state, but he wanted the interest to be known publicly. He also wanted to speak to the medicant.

"I wish to see Captain Pillarhand and speak with the medicant about his condition. Would you ask the mate to grant me leave to do so?

Upon return, with an affirmation, Demarr would head to Pillarhand and look for the medicant.

Yje mariner who is at the door nods, then steps to the hallway and whistles aa signal.

Another crewman comes over, then the guard returns to the door.

After a brief time, a knock at the door and the guard informs the passenger that he has permission to visit the injured and speak to the Medicant.

Once there, the very first thing Demarr encounters is the smell. It is an acrid, bitter pungent smell of rotting flesh and likely the contents of stomachs and bowels that have been emptied onto the floor.

There is a small stove  and on it are small irons those ends are in the stove.

The medicant is off in a corner and mixing something.

Pillarhand is as Demarr saw him with Far Sight. Bed soaked in perspiration, his eyes cloes but crusted with sleep, arms and legs restrained, the bowl is still there, now empty of water, and he is shaking with fever, he is pale and his features are sunken, his breath stinks and is shallow.

Demarr paused as he entered the area, hit like a blow to the face by the stench that seemed to stick to his lungs and nose with each breath. It was unpleasant to say the least. He avoided covering his face or nose and then stepped purposefully into the area of injury.

He looked upon Pillarhand with sadness in his eyes. Less so that he held real affection for the man, outside of the admiration he had for his devotion to duty and the royal but more aligned with the suffering. It took a moment to adjust, to the light and have his eyes stop watering at the awful stench but he did and stepped closer to Pillarhand, looking down upon him.

Starcaller made a full assessment of his status, taking particular note of all ailments that were visible.

"Is this usual? The man looks like he is dying. he asked without taking his eyes from Pillarhand.

In the back of his mind Demarr couldn't help think of the Deep Father's interest in this man and imagined how he might pose a deal to one of the Wise Lords of the Deep. Aid me in healing this man of the filth of the Deep Ones and I shall do everything to guide him to see the wisdom of fighting the Deep Ones and standing against their terror. he considered it but thought it could be hasty.

Demarr didn't want Pillarhand to die. While it would be a strong word to consider the man a friend. In view of the past decade of his life, the soldier could be considered the closest thing to a one he had. The Master was elusive at best, and the other sorcerers taking the man's word more to heart than Demarr had also (in his mind) become distant and distrusting. He had interactions and couplings with various other spellcasters, but those relationships were transient at best. Similarly, the crew never accepted him.

He played the part What more can be done to recover the man? Anything a all? Supplies, medicines? he asked.

He wondered at the medicant's skill level, but wouldn't question it. It was greater than his own, for sure, and there was nobody else on board who could match it. Equipment and components might be a factor but it crossed Starcaller's mind that Captain Igmar may well be convinced to divert the vessel to Sarreshar for a healer, or more components should they not be available.

"He is dying. I have applied all I know and have available. Were we in Tatha Gorel, I could have access to better medicine. This is a highly unusual state.. most Men do not find themselves this far along, they die before reaching this last stage. Heard other medicants speak of this stage, I have never seen it, the wasting."




"It is a poor craftsman that blames his tools.. having said that, I am woefully unprepared for this. It does not matter what I may ask for, he is dead before we can move more than a day or two. We are many days from any city or ship.
This part is fatal in all cases and inflicts the most pain. I have not abandoned treatment, and for that.. I have not given the most powerful sedative, when I do let him drink the water of ten warte bloem you will know his time with the living is near its end."

A day or two for his life and more so to reach anywhere that could help him. It was not a good outlook for Pillarhand, but Demarr didn't know what the best outcome was.  Almost instinctively, Demarr instinctively cast a spell, thinking of the Captain, and wanter to know the stage of Pillarhand's mind.


"This is no good way to go, for a soldier

How frequently do men get tainted by the Deep Ones like this?" he said.

[Private to GM: MindScan - the the room they're in

No other mind is present]
This message was last edited by the GM at 05:53, Fri 02 June 2023.

"Every one that has taken damage to the torso."

Starcaller nodded. The infection came into the body and like the one that ailed Pillarhand, he hated the Deep Ones for a moment. Bad enough that they wished death upon everything not their own, but worse that they reduced men to this.

The queen would likely not be happy about his demise, and he didn't doubt others would miss the man should he die.

"Stay strong Dedepio Pillarhand" was all he could say.

Starcaller nodded to the Medicant and then turned back to his cabin. It was an awful walk, but he headed back to his cabin to do what he usually did when having to think on things. He began  reading his previous missives and then write an update letter.

<small>"
The prognosis for Captain Delepio Pillarhand is not good as he enters a stage of infection known as The Wasting. Few, if any, are said to have survived this and with little access to a city's worth of medicines and people knowing the art of healing, I fear the worst.

I pray to Hospin to give some relief to the man, or have the Medicant's hands work the illness from him, but I also ask that relief of those whose cause he served in battling the Deep Ones.
"


After a short while, he put the quill down and considered what to do over the coming days.


[Private to GM: GM ove the next days, Starcaller will go back to his usual routine:

- open letters
- write his missives
- visit pillarhand 2-4 times per day
- generally keep himself occupied, practicing with the blade (and now staff)

- Demarr will request to visit the captain also.
]
This message was last edited by the player at 06:33, Fri 02 June 2023.

The hours slowed to a crawl. Every task Demarr set himself seemed to take far less time than he thought, leaving that much more unoccupied hours to fill.

Writing was a task in omitting the most important thoughts and events.

Painting was an exercise in futility, paint did not obey his lines, brushes bled, colors were wrong, size and shape eluded him.

To see Pillarhand shrink, his skin turn blue on occasion, the medicant rushing to try something different. To see the frustration of the medicant as he just tried everything. Then on th e second day in the morning visit of Demarr, the medicant prepared the water of ten warte bloem.

It was then that Pillarhand's face and body relaxed. Pillarhand had not come back into the wakefulness that allowed speech. At best a few minutes between pain storms and sleep, he could blink and his sword hand could grasp.

The vigil was kept only by the passenger, all crew knew the fate of the land walker days ago.

Then in the hours before sunset on that second day, Pillarhand's breathing grew stronger, his eyes cleared, his skin flushed with more red than blue, and his hand was now no longer icy cold, just cold.

The medicant at first fought against what his own senses were telling him, then he was cautious and by nightfall he was sure, the man was the first ever to survive and on the mend.

The First Mate was summoned, he had questions. The medicant replied only that it was an act of Hospin, there was only an act of the God of Mercy.

The crew was informed and there was a day of hushed and quiet activity and murmurs of thanks to the Blue Gods and to Hospin.

Still.. the Captain had not emerged from his cabin since the slain mariners were committed to Saaltus.
This message was last edited by the GM at 07:53, Fri 02 June 2023.

Demarr prepared for the worse, but didn't want to leave the man, condmned to death through blight, to be alone for his remaining time. There was little else he could do, but between him and the medicant there were people around to at least give the man attention as he deserved.

Starcaller, did what he could, and kept a somber disposition as befit the situation.

It was then that the change occurred and the man's wasting seemed to cease. He moved and his hand clutched at air. In the moment, Starcaller placed his hand to Pillarhand's, less an intimate gesture and more to indicate a presence beside him.

As the recovery happened Starcaller looked at the medicant and smiled and said allowed "Thank you" but it was clear that Starcaller was addressing a presence not physically in the room.

Inwardly, Demarr had perhaps underestimated the Deep Father's interest in Pillarhand, but gave his thanks nevertheless. He was not certain that it was the act of the presence he'd spoken with, and as such reseved some thanks for Hospit, as with the medicant - all ailments healed should acknowledge the glory of Hospit.

"Miracles, it seems do happen. Well done for taking care of the man" he said, purposely leading enough of a gap in his words to acknowledge the stunned healer's trust in the divine influence. In truth, he thought it was too.

"I will be back soon" he said to the Medicant, before moving back to his cabin.

Upon arriving it was then that he realised he had not seen or heard of the captain after entering his mind and decided to look upon the outcome of his punishment.

Demarr sat, closing his eyes and focusing on the Captain's cabin, he opened all eyes to the world and felt it come into view. Looking at the cabin through his magic, Starcaller assessed the room, and the state of the captain.


[Private to GM: Clairsentience to look at the room - and see waht the captain is up to/doing, etc.]

The sight is projected it appears, directed into the cabin at the door.

The Captain is not where Demarr last viewed him. Yet.. the inside of the door is no longer the same. Nor is the little bit of the floor, ceiling and walls of the cabin within view.

The sorcerous sight turns and takes in more of the cabin.

Demarr can see little, the low ember light is almost out, from neglect. The Captain is on his knees and his hands are moving in front of him on the floor and the wall of the cabin.

What can be seen of the change in the low light is incomprehensible to Demarr.

On all the surface of the floor, walls, ceiling, wardrobe, has been carved... lines, curves, contours in erratic and nonsensical ways.

By his progress it appears that the Captain has done nothing else. Discarded neat him are daggers with chipped, blunted or broken blades, in his hand is a blade as he works to scribe the last of the unmarked surface in the cabin.

The man was ostensibly still locked into the madness. He hoped that the man had not been tormented for this long. It could perhaps break even the toughest mind. But as Demarr would learn of the mind's secrets he wanted to learn of what was written. Mentally, Demarr projected his mind to the captain and connected it, much as he had before. Lurking under the surface of thought and obscured from the man's own view.

He felt the spell take effect, and miss the first time, it was an intricate process weaving one's mind into someone elses seemlessly and the natural finesse that required years of repeated practice had not yet come to him. Starcaller touched the mind, felt an onslaught of imagery and thoughts, but without his magic having coalesced into a true connection it was indescribable and utterly useless.

The second attempt, Demarr smirked as it made connection and then moved into the Captain's mind like the slow growth of vines up a building's wall. It was subtle, as should be so, and he felt the images slow into something more coherant, but Demarr knew it wasn't a strong connection for now. But it was enough for a short period.

What are you writing Igmar? he asked through the connection while simultaneously pushing power into it to make his connection stronger.

At the same time his vision was moving around the walls and floor of the captain's cabin to look at the scars he'd etched into the wall.


[Private to GM: Will pay END to maintain connection without breakout bonus
- will look at the walls/carvings/etc through clairsentience also]

What are you writing Igmar?

I do not know

Demarr pushed into the man's mind and searched for more answers. What was the outcome of your punishment?

What is your purpose? he asked, trying to frame the conscious thoughts of his own to a man that seemed stricken with madness.

What was the outcome of your punishment?

I must answer to the Geas


What is your purpose?

My purpose is to slay the Mother-of-All Deep Ones.

Starcaller frowned into his own cabin while the man continued to scribble and etch into the walls of his own cabin.

What are the next steps to achieve your goal? How will you slay her? he pulsed the questions out as quickly as he could, hoping to hold the tether to the man's mind. IT was an uncomfortable experience.

What is it about you that has changed since yesterday to your full awareness?"

What are the next steps to achieve your goal?

Deliver the Passenger
Recruit more crew
Speak to the Lord Marshal for better weapons
Consult Rislojaur
Restock Repair ship
Buy Blade posion
Have Bear traps modified for Deep Ones
Prepare ship for long trip
Return to the Dagger Sisters
Kill Deep Ones
Complete Geas

How will you slay her?

With Blessings from the Deep Fathers or Ziandwyrth or steal weapons from Shar cults

What is it about you that has changed since yesterday to your full awareness?

I have failed Ziandwyrth, must become stronger

He thoguht to ask some more things before severing the connection that was beginning to take its toll. But this time he decided to try something else.

It is good to make an ally of the passenger and summon him to show this. he pressed his own idea into the man's mind. He would ensure the message went through and so he would repeat it before severing his connection feeling his energy return.

[Private to GM: total END cost 34 (telepathy + clairsenteince)]


Demarr cut the connection, unsure about the time it would take for him to finish but knowing that the suggestion had indeed been planted. Until that point though, there was little else for him to do other than try to decipher letters as best he can. Demarr moved over to his desk and then looked upon a sectionof the wall in his mind's eye and began to copy it onto paper as best he could.

Had the man's mind been broken, was the geas still coming to him? Demarr didn't know, but this as delving in to the territory of greater things than he. It was wise to tread carefully. But one thing was true, the man suffered for the cause, and despite his odious personal views on life Starcaller thought it best to build a relationship that could bring them both in line against the Deep Ones.
This message was last edited by the player at 09:20, Sat 03 June 2023.

The process was slow, Demarr trying as best to trace what he saw, not knowing if any detail mattered, what it might be, his hand drew arcs, and lines but he often had to go back because the arc he drew was to flat or to oval.

No call came to summon the passenger.

A meal was delivered as was a bottle of wine, which was a singular delivery, n wine had been with his meals to date. Not to mention generous portions and a smal amount of candied fruits.

The ship had been silent, then a voice lifted to song, then one by one more voices added.
At first what was song was low pitched and morose, about a son returning from war at sea, then a song more energetic, about a son returned and the first time he met his love after 3 years, then a bawdy and downright carnal song about the son his recapturing of his girls heart and body and his life of creating numerous sons and daughters.

After those verses were sung and rattled the ships ribs, there were joyous prayers to Saaltus, Hospin and the Skyfather.
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 06:01, Sun 04 June 2023.

After a while, of etching down some of the symbols - there was no chance to get them all preciselty Demarr put the quill down. He needed a few to see if they had any meaning, but it was a task he could spend some other time.

Time had passed, and he indeed would have been summoned if the spell had worked.

 When the song started and he could hear the voices begin to lead a melody in chorus Starcaller was confused at the moroseness of it. It soon changed once the tone of the song came and he suspected perhaps Pillarhand had risen from his near death. Starcaller moved to leave his cabin so that he could welcome the man back to the land of the living and show his face in the celebration of the recovery of one of the men.


Once he'd managed to do this, he closed eyes and focused back to the room. Was the captain still scrawling like a madman?

The Guard is still posted outside the door.

When the passenger opens the door, there is no one near the door, nor are there any voices or feet on deck nearby.

The guard turns to look at the passenger.

Once back in the room, door closed.

Far Sight shows the Captain still carving.
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 06:51, Sun 04 June 2023.

Demarr frowned at the guard to fully express his dissatisfaction but felt his patience was starting to wane with regard to the confinement. He, under orders of the captain was stuck here while the man having lost his mind was carving seeming nonsense all over the walls of his own cabin.

What would the mate say if he saw the captain in this state? What would the crew say? A suspicious passenger is one thing, but an absent captain is quite another. Demarr suspected that the mate would assume control of the vessel. He quickly moved his sight to the deck of the ship, where he could see where the singing had occurred, and then looked for Pillarhand before returning to the captain.

He connected to the mind again, and once again intricately weaved the connection to avoid any awareness of his comments. Through his telepathic connection Demarr spoke

"Now is time to stop... Stop the writings and continue the Geas as you would normally.

Pillarhand is currently where he was last seen, in the Medicant's hold, still in a cot, however he no longer is strapped to the cot, has a slices of roast meat and soup he is trying to eat, yet, his arms and hands shake with effort, his face is screwed with pain and his skin is has a sheen of sweat.

One mariner is near him and puts down a fresh cup of tea near him and shakes his leg then leaves.

The ship's main deck has most of the crew there and they seem to have gathered around the  Weathervane.

The Capt continues his carving.

"When will you finish the writing? he asked through the mind link "And how will you finish if you keep writing? And what do you see?" this was the last questions he would ask, hoping to snap the man out of it. But he also wanted to see what the captain saw, and what it was he was writing. Understanding the landscope of the man's mind might unlock the secret to fixing it. He doubted the man was being tormented still.

The next would be more forceful but after he'd searched for other minds in the area.

"When will you finish the writing?

After it is done

"And how will you finish if you keep writing?

I finish when all is recvealed


what do you see?

I see a plan, no.. a design, no.. my life, no.. my enemy, no.. my weapon, no.. my death forming

Demarr cast another spell while looking upon the cabin. Was there magic to his writings? He wondered.

Otherwise, perhaps it was worth awaiting the Captain finishing. Demarr resolved to continue checking on the captain over the next days, regularly, to determine how far the man's writings had to go. As long as they were on course to Sarkund, and the man wasn't wasting away, there was no harm in seeing the formulations that would be penned.

After finishing with his spells, Demarr went to visit Pillarhand, seeking permission from the mate, as usual.

---

"Welcome back to the world of the living... You escaped death by the narrowest margin Dedepio Pillarhand.

[Private to GM: Mind-scan the area.

The Mind Scan reveals the presence of no other minds in the Captain

Will far sight the ship once every few hours (while awake) but then spend a bunch of time in the cabin of the captain, copying the writings, as systematically as he's able.

]
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:44, Sun 04 June 2023.

The Captain is still carving

Oddly, the guard does not pass along the request, he simply walks the Passenger over to the Medicant's gold, to Pillarhand

There is a croak from the recovering man, then a sip of soup.

"That would seem true, I swore I would see you to Sarkund, the Blue Gods must have heard m."