Within an hour the party is fully loaded and underway in the "Heart of Oak" as the ship has been dubbed by Miroslav. Both Greek farmers and characters man the oars and the winds are favorable.

Miroslav estimates that the party will be in the capital in just under two days.

After about 8 hours in the winds pick up and the oars are pulled in and the vessel pretty much can run on a skeleton crew. Miroslav brings out all the items collected form Armin's gear and the gold and motions that it is time to figure out not only what these things are but who they will go to.

items of note:
finely wrought mail shirt
small gold lion statue with some obscure writing on the underside
gold ring with a flame shaped ruby inserted into the fitting.
hammer that looks to be of Dwarven manufacture
An incredibly thick yet light cloak
scimitar of excellent quality
2 Potion of healing
a very well crafted dagger
a rather large pearl
a gold ring with inscription in Farsi

In reply to Nestor (msg #1):

Mages don't row boats. Balthazar takes this opportunity to go off and memorize detect magic, then casts it on the pile.

All but the cloak and hammer give off a faint glow indicating there is an enchantment of some kind attached to them.

Giving a look of passing indifference over the items. "As I said before, I have a wand with which I may determine the precise nature of these..." With a smirk in the direction of Balthazar he continues, "I am willing to do so, if the Magus will take a turn at the oars next time."

His face becoming serious again, "I am willing to make use of this, but would ask for first choice of the goods, since I am offering to use my wand. So that everything is aboveboard I will tell everyone what each item is before I make my choice so that everyone knows that I am not hiding anything. Do we all agree?"

******NEXT STEP*******
OCC: Just to keep things going, if everyone agrees with his terms he will do the following:

Removing a wand from a sack at his side he steps forward and begins to concentrate as he makes use of it -- he uses them on the items in the following order (if Balthazar tells him which items are NOT magical, he'll not waste time and charges on either the cloak or the hammer):
finely wrought mail shirt
small gold lion statue with some obscure writing on the underside
gold ring with a flame shaped ruby inserted into the fitting.
a very well crafted dagger
hammer that looks to be of Dwarven manufacture
An incredibly thick yet light cloak
small gold lion statue with some obscure writing on the underside
gold ring with a flame shaped ruby inserted into the fitting.
a rather large pearl
a gold ring with inscription in Farsi
scimitar of excellent quality

As he determines their magical nature he describes them clearly, so that everyone can hear what they are.

OOC: If there is some resistance to his offer, he waits until the debate is over before proceeding.
*******

Balthazar agrees to the terms, and also informs him about the cloak and hammer.

Balthazar also asks Loukas earlier on, "Can you tell us who your uncle was, and why Alexander killed him?"

He nods and replies to Balthazar, the look on his face turns sour, "My uncle was a soldier. He thought he served the Throne... As you have all seen now, serving the Emperor, even when one is hired for 'piece work', is a tricky thing. Particularly, this Emperor."

Jaleh the sometimes sailor, sometimes courtesan walks up to Loukas as he speaks of his uncle and lays a hand softly on his forearm. She says something to him in a tone to soft for others to hear.

She then walks away without giving him a chance to answer and starts to climb the riggings.

When Jaleh whispered in his ear he shook his head and chuckled resignedly. She walks away before he can say anything to her face, but to her back he says, "Then, I owe you a drink, my dear!" He continues watching her for a second or two, but from the blank look on his face it is clear that he is not admiring her rather admirable backside. Shaking his head again he turns back to the the rest of the party.
This message was last edited by the player at 18:38, Tue 29 Sept 2009.

"Unless some of these objects may provide us some way to turn around these events I have nothing against such terms." says the young paladin

"Choose, Loukas," says A'kos with a nod from where he sits at the oars.

Loukas pull,s the small plain looking wand from his pack and inspects it for a moment before passing it in a flourish over the first item...the mail shirt. Then all the rest. Nothing happens physically as the wand is passed over the objects but Balthazar can feel the magic in the air.

As he passed the wand over each item Loukas announces its properties:

-finely wrought mail shirt...enchanted for more protection +2...

-small gold lion statue with some obscure writing on the underside..figurine of wonderous power, will turn into a real lion on command...

-gold ring with a flame shaped ruby inserted into the fitting....ring of warmth...

-scimitar of excellent quality...enchanted for extra sharpness +2...

-2 Potion of healing...

-a very well crafted dagger...very light and deadly sharp +2...

-a rather large pearl...pearl of wisdom...

-a gold ring with inscription in Farsi...ring of spell storing...

When he has finished he looks around at the others, and reaches for the dagger "I will have this."

Is there anything in the ring of spell storing at the moment?

"I would take the figurine - 'tis an item that suits me," says A'kos, pulling upon the oar as he speaks.

Jaleh smiles as she sees A'kos claim the lion figurine. She looks about at the other items and grabs up the thick cloak. "Where we may be head, this is the greatest treasure of all. I know the ring gives warmth but rubies clash with my skin. This cloak on the other hand looks warm!"

The big Rus looks over the loot and his eyes fall on the finely crafted hammer but he decides against claiming it. He looks at the other gear and says..."I am well enough equipped."

He looks at the two healing drafts and then says..."I will hold one of these for use by all. I suggest another take the remaining draft and keep it safe and be ready to give it to whoever needs it the most as I will do."

"So we are in agreement then?" asks A'kos.

"Aye... I say Roderychus ought to bear the other healing potion. I suppose we shall find a market for the rest of this gear in the Rus capitol... Unless Roderychus or Jean wishes to take from the lot?"

A'kos grins at Jaleh.

"A lion for a lion!" he laughs, and puts the figurine into his pack.

"I will carry the pearl, it may enlighten the path we should take. Also, someone should wear that mail shirt and carry the scimitar, for both are mighty arms. Regarding the potion, I think it would better benefit the group if it was carried by someone who cannot provide us healing in some other fashion."

The young paladin adds after a moment of thought "It would also be for the best if all those objects were distributed among the group, even if you have no desire to keep them. We cannot foresee how they may be useful later on, that ring may be crucial for someone to survive, that well-crafter hammer might hold some significance we know not at this point... I could go on about each, but I believe you understand what I mean."

Jaleh steps forward and picks up the remaining healing potion. "Wise words Roderychus! Since I am not often at the fore of battle, it might be best if I hold on to this if there are no objections?"

"Aye, yes, I support Jaleh's bearing of the other healing potion. Roderychus, unsurprisingly speaks wisdom. I bear a good blade already, and appreciate the irony of bearing Armin's, but the one I have was a gift from my uncle and I would not give it up yet. As to his armor, chain mail is too heavy for a sailor."

Alright, then the remaining items are:



Balthazar is absolutely fine with taking, err carrying, these :)

Um, also I'm still drooling over the potential of the spell-storing ring.  Are there spells already in it?  How many spells can it hold?

Edit: just re-read the house rules and it says m-u's can only wear leather, padded, and studded leather.  I assume then that the finely wrought mail shirt would interfere with his spells?
This message was last edited by the player at 16:14, Fri 02 Oct 2009.

In reply to Balthazar the Hedonite (msg #23):

Loukas smirks at Balthazar's comment, "It is fine with you if you take the rings, but if you can not use the other things, why should you bear them? You're going to need all of your strength at the oar and the extra weight will only add to your difficulties, no?"
This message was last edited by the player at 16:57, Fri 02 Oct 2009.

"Ha, HA!" laughed A'kos.  "Young Loukas seems to have taken on the role of Captain of this ship of fools!"

"As long as we do not leave those objects behind I agree with Balthazar. I will also carry the hammer with me, then."

"On to Sviatoslav, then," says A'kos, putting his back into the oar.

The Heart of Oak begins to make very good time as the thought of warm dry beds, baths and a sense of having this ordeal over hits those minding the oars.

Just a little over a day passes and the ship is heading up the Danube and nearing the captial of the Rus. Another half a day and the ports are in sight.

This is obviously a thriving trade town, unlike many other cities there is little in the way of battlements, it looks like they are being constructed but it is clearly a new settlement. But even for all it's youthful growth it is as I said before thriving! Traders from all over the known and somewhat unknown world bustle around the docks...men as black as coal, yellow as the sun and everything in between can be seen.

Miroslav has proved better equipped for piloting a vessel than Thorfinn was and he guides the ship into port without a hitch. Within a mminute the vessel is tied and secured to the dock.

OOC Still not fully functional at home with the net.. a few more days. I got some luck and was able to access the web for a while this afternoon:)If anyone needs to reach me, my email address is kenpfrenger@gmail.com You could also add me on facebook if that is your bag...http://www.facebook.com/pfrenger

As they dock, the normally ebuilliant A'kos looks about.  The waters of the blue Danube strike a cord, and for a moment he feels a pang of nostalgic familiarity for the river.  He looks about, notes the thriving press of humanity ashore and is relieved to see the town little more than an armed encampment, something akin to the meeting places used by the more nomadic of his folk.

Leaving his oar, he looks after his belongings and his horse, as well as the arabian, then says to the others, "Where shall we meet?  I would look around a bit, but would prefer to stable the horses at a reputable inn first, if that's possible."

Once the ship is docked Loukas looks to Miroslav, "We are in your land now, friend. How should we proceed? I think we would all like a good inn and a proper drunk and morning to sleep it off (and Balthazar is going to just want a night to recover himself from the past few day's rowing), but how should we approach your King?"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:41, Fri 10 June 2016.

Miroslav begins to answer Loukas but he stops when he sees a small group of Rus approaching the ship. There are ten of them, they are definitely soldeirs but have the look of an official guard rather than how the marauders were dressed.

The tallest of them takes the lead and within a few moments they are standing near the ship, the tall Rus askes loudly in Greek..."What is your business in Pereyaslavets?"

Loukas was unsure what to say, We're bringing news to the King about us nasty backstabbing Greeks? This trip was not his idea anyway, so he decides to let Miroslav or somebody else speak. Whatever the case he is glad to see some sort of apparent civic order here!

Au contraire mon frere, Balthazar used an unseen servant spell to handle his share of the rowing.

Balthazar memorizes the following spells once the party arrives in port: charm person, message, and ESP.

.

Balthazar allows someone more of the party "face" to answer the guard's question.

Roderychus steps ahead "We hail from Constantinople and have news from the Empire. Matters of state which must be reported to highest ranking officer available."

The knight awaits for the reply from the rus.

A'kos thinks of giving a suitably glib reply to the officious peckers, but instead wisely keeps his mouth shut as he prepares the horses to disembark.

The Rus looks at the party for a second, taking in their eclectic nature then turns to one of his fellows and says something in a voice too low for any of the party to hear.

The second Rus and Miroslav exchange nods of the head, then the Rus says in Greek..."Please follow me."

Miroslav makes a small motion with his hand to the party and the look on his face is a favorable one, giving away the fact that he knows this man they are dealing with. He takes the lead and begins to follow the Rus officer who does not seem to be waiting for the party.

Ok, you cam follow or stay behind, just let me know which and we can either stay as a group or break off into seperate threads.

Loukas nods at Miroslav and follows without speaking.

A'kos watches as Loukas follows. Turning to Jaleh he says, "Care to follow me as I explore the locale?  I'd trade the Arabian and find a place to lair while they go about their business."

Turning, before she can answer he says to Loukas, "I'll meet you here on the docks in the hour before dusk."

Replying to A'kos "Of course! I have no need to play at affairs of state. I do not think a women would be welcome in such talks anyway."

She looks to the others and says "Will any of you be joining us?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:28, Sun 11 Oct 2009.

Balthazar as well.

In reply to A'kos, the Falcon (msg #38):

In reply to A'kos Loukas nods, "Aye, save me a pitcher of wine, my friend."

And turning to Jaleh, "And save us some A'kos, eh, beautiful!"

Much to Jaleh and A'kos surprise Jean says "I will join you in a look about town. I do not speak the language of the Rus so I fear I will not be any use in dealing with their King. I know that Sviatoslav allows Christians to live in his land, surely there is one Christian church in such a new and vast settlement."

Shrugging A'kos says to the Frank, "Come then."

He is careful to lead first Storm's Wind, then the Arabian off the ship.  An idea strikes and he says to Jaleh, "We may have need of swift steeds at some point soon.  This is a gentle creature, and brave in her own way...perhaps not too much for you to ride.  I would give her to you rather than pawn her as common horseflesh.  I fear there is not enough gold in even this King's treasure vault to adequately pay what she is worth."

The byzantine paladin follows the rus.

Jaleh is overjoyed at the gift given to her by A'kos. She gives him a quick hug and turns to Loukas as he leaves and says with a laugh "I am not sure about leaving any of A'kos for you all or wine either"

With a skill that belies her training she hops onto the Arabians back. "Yes this feels good! Let us three take a tour of Perelaslavyets!"

A'kos hides a clever smile.

"A noble steed for a beautiful Lady," he notes with a solemn tone belied only by a wink.  "Lead on, then!"

Jaleh does just that...A'kos follows close behind and reluctantly bringing up the rear is the Frankish knight. I am booting the three of you to a seperate thread titled...Tooling about town:)

The rest of the party follows the Rus officers in silence to the middle of what can only be a large military encampment but it has a strange look of permanancy about it. The Officer turns and motions for the party to stop and says in Greek..."Please wait here for a moment...I will inform the Knyaz of your arrival and request to speak with him."

When the officer leaves them, Loukas turns to Miroslav, "Have you met the Knyaz before?"

As they wait it occurs to Loukas that not only has it been quite a while since he has shaved or bathed, but he has spent several days rowing and fought a battle in that time. Looking down at the sea and battle stained tunic and cloak that covers his armor he attempts to straighten things, but realizes that there's little to do. To himself he mutters, "It has been a very long couple of days..."

Miroslav notices Loukas worrying about his appearance and says..."Yes, I have met the Knyaz before...in many ways my family has served him as your family has served the Basilius and the one before him. Do not be concerned with your state of cleanliness. Sviatoslav is most unlike any king you will likely ever meet."

The party waits fully expecting to be brought to the Knyaz of the Rus but after a few minutes, the officer returns with what must only be the Knyaz in tow.

Sviatoslav the Grand Prince of the Rus follows a few paces behind the officer. he is dressed in simple white linen tunic and breeches. He wears little in the way of ornamentation, basicallyt he only thing that sets him apart from the throng is the fact that his tunic is whiter and newer than most and his sword belt, scabbard and sword is of a very high quality. He is of a middling height and has a somewhat stocky build. His head is shaved except for a long lock on the side of his head and his blonde beard. He looks to be in his 30's.

When he see's Miroslav he smiles and says in Rus..."So Miroslav brings you all with news for me...what is it?"

Loukas sets aside his trained instinct to bow and scrape as one would do the Greek Emperor and follows Miroslav's lead. He also sticks to his decision not to speak unless addressed directly...

Miroslav seeing that the others are to wary to speak to such a high ranking noble such as Sviatoslav, steps forward and spills the entire story from beginning to end, leaving out no details.

The Knyaz sits down on a barrel and rests his chin in his hand as he listens. When Miroslav is finished with the tale Sviatoslav stands and says..."Perun take Emperor John! He has given us nothing but grief since he murdered his own uncle and stole the throne from him. Now he works to ruin our relationship with the Caliph! He has worked to make us enemies with the Bulgars and Pechenegs...but this last one is the worst offense.

He walks around a second in thought then says..."Word will be sent to the Caliph of this at once to avoid any incident between the Rus and the Persians. As for you all. You have done a great service to the Rus, the Persians and even the Byzantines by exposing the Basilius for what he really is. In three days time we move against the Byzantine city of Khorsun in the Crimean peninsula. Should all go well we will send a message to the Basilius that we are not here to play his puppets. I beg you to join my expedition with your ship. Khorsun is a rich city and there are great opportunities for wealth and land there for all."

Loukas runs a hand through his hair and takes a deep breath, "Might John not take advantage of this attack you plan and ultimately use it as evidence to the Persian Caliph that the attack he staged to frame you for the murder of his cartographer was in fact you, Knyaz? I am no statesman, but it seems to me that this might just play into the Emperor's hands."

Sviatoslav smiles at Loukas and says..."You may not be a statesman but your u have a good head on your shoulders, your uncle would be proud. I am sorry to hear of his passing from Miroslav...I knew your uncle in passing, a good man. But back to the matter at hand, the Caliph knows of this attack. It was intelligence from his agents that helped in the planning. So any word to the Caliph from John concerning this attack will only go to enforce his treachery."

The reality of the complexity their world in smacked Loukas more harshly than Sviatoslav could have known. If he went along with the Rus's plan he would be a traitor, but what did he owe to those who had duped and killed his uncle? The realization that whatever action he undertook would doubtless be wrong at some point struck him even more profoundly than his prior realization.

"Well... If that is the case, then it seems to me that we ought to provide something for the Basilius to enforce his treachery with..."

Turning to look at his comrades, "Do you agree? Should we throw in with this King?"
This message was last edited by the player at 14:51, Sat 17 Oct 2009.

"I shall not raise my sword against byzantine forces, unless in defense of myself or of others. The treason stains not the unknowing folk of the Empire, and I still owe my allegiance to the institutions, even if no longer to the men in power. But the invitation presented by the Knyaz sounds timely."

Roderychus looks straight at Sviatoslav "Thou certainly have an aura of nobility and trustworthiness, my lord. A plot such as the one woven by the Basilius is a shame to the Empire and to all for which it stands. I will try to acomplish any deed that might diminish such a stain or expose its perpetrators."

Sviatoslav replies to Roderychus..."I apprectiate your loyalty and your kinds words for me...I am but a soldier born to a king. No more noble than anyone of my men here. If it matters to you, Khorsun has but few Byzantine troops garrisoned there. At this time they are mostly protected by Pecheneg mercenaries and Varangians. I offer you the same deal as the Basilius. Land but instead of on the outskirts to build a buffer against the Pechenegs, in the city itself...rich land."

He addresses all..."Khorsun or Cheronsone as the Greeks call it is a far off colony of the Empire. I do not expect a fight from them. I expect them to surrender in a few days time."

It surprised Loukas how enthusiastic he suddenly felt for this project. Perhaps it was the kind words Sviatoslav had offered him about his uncle and the flattery with which the King had slathered him with regarding his smarts? Then again, perhaps it is just the artlessness and straightforwardness that this leader acted with that made inspired him? Whatever it was, the he understood Miroslav's enthusiasm for this man.

"I do not know that I seek a trophy for this, though, your offer is generous, Sire... I act in the name of my uncle and those Byzantines who have been misused by a man who has proven to be as corrupt as the rumors suggested when his uncle died. We must confirm with A'kos, Jaleh, and Jean, but at this time my vote is to aid the Knyaz.

Balthazar steps forward and introduces himself, then answers, "Members of my order never tie themselves to the land until they are ready to retire, and I am very far from that, but I thank you for the offer.  No, my motivation here is vengeance for the death of the scribe.  Though I knew him but a short time, he was a good man, and a talented occultist.  If this attack leads in some small way to the Basilius' downfall, I'm all for it."

"A fine offer indeed, however I cannot accept no bounty nor reward for myself. I will only ask that if righteousness puts us in the same path and my acts end up helping your objectives, o king, you might then concede some favour reasonable to the eyes of God."

Sviatoslav smiles and says..."I can understand all of your terms and will respect them. If we can take Khorsun it will greatly hurt the Basilius, less in a physical way than in making him lose face with his own generals. THey will know of his plot soon enough as I will send word via a net work of couriers to certain less than friendly to the regime, member os the Byzantine government."

He walks forward and smack Miroslav on the shoulder and says..."Tonight you will all join me in my encampment for a feast."

With out another word he turns a walks off leaving the party to discuss things among themselves.

Jean the Frankish knight rides up on his steed just moments after the Knyaz had left the area. He hops down from his mount and says "So, what does the king of heathendom have to offer for our great service?"

As the Knyaz leaves Loukas began to say something to Miroslav, but Jean trotted up before he has a chance to speak. Turning to the Frank, "He offers good land in Khosun to whomever helps him take the place. Most of us present do not seem to be interested, but he made clear that if we provide useful service we will be justly rewarded."

"I say we all need baths ... and women."

Jaleh and A'kos ride back to join the group and Miroslav does his best to fill them in on the details. He also says that there is ample opportunity to find some drink, women and whatever you might be interested in doing for the three days before the Knyaz leads his fleet to Khorsun.

Jaleh smiles as she hears the offer made by Sviatoslav repeated by Miroslav. "Does his offer extend to me as well? Would he give land to an unmarried woman?"

She looks over at A'kos to judge his assessment of the situation and offer.

"Aye, Sviatoslav hold women in higher esteem than most. His mother Olga ruled the Rus for nearly 20 years after the murder of her husband and Sviatoslav's father, Oleg. His wife Malusha also hold a prominent place in court...she is the Knyaz seer as well as his wife."

A'kos glances at Jaleh and shrugs.

"An opportunity to gain renown - what more can I ask for?"

Loukas smirks in reaction to A'kos's comment, "A jug of wine...?"

Quickly holding up both hands in a placating gesture, "Okay, a keg of wine?"

"Though, maybe I speak for myself? My friends, I agree with Balthazar. I need to slake a profound thirst and wash the blood, sweat, and tears from my tired body. We each have much to gain from this situation, so let us adjourn and begin doing so!"

Once at a sufficiently respectable inn and bathed, Balthazar entertains Loukas and anyone else who is interested with a wine-tasting fiesta, showing off his impressive knowledge of different types of wine, what foods they go best with, and how to stave off drunkeness until one has had his fill.

Loukas washed several days of dirt and troubles away and joined Balthazar. He entered the room that the wizard had established his wine and edibles and set to with gusto. He had a lot of "stuff" to work through and he let nothing, nor nobody, deter him from the delicious oblivion offered by Balthazar, "So, you call yourself 'the Hedonite', my friend, I think tonight is your opportunity to begin convincing me that you deserve such a title!"

A'kos settles into the room with Balthazar and Loukas and watches their reckless abandon with an amused smile.

"Live, friends," he chuckles good-naturedly.  "Enjoy this moment as if it is our last!"

Before the other members of the group leave to enjoy themselves Roderychus says "We are on the verge of embarking once again on the way of peril. Perhaps would be of use offering some of the objects carried by the late Armin to Sviatoslav in exchange for other goods that might aid us in the future events. What you folks say?"

"Yes ROderychus, youa re probably right...but we may want to keep them for ourselves as well. We will be needing to fill out our crew somewhat. These Greek farmers may have heart but they are neither warriors or seamen. I suggest that in the morn we scout for some new crew members among the Varangians perhaps."

"It seems my own harness has become somewhat worn of late and so I will claim the Mail shirt. As to the pagan cheese knife and the rest I say get what you can for us."

He picks up the +2 Chainmail and places it in his armor bag for cleaning.

"I too intend to enjoy this night as deeply as possible."

Having downed several goblets since his and A'kos's arrival, Loukas was more at ease than he had been since meeting the other party members just a few weeks ago. He raised his glass towards Jean, "I wondered why you had kept so quiet when we were discussing these matters aboard ship, Frank. If by "cheese knife" you mean the dagger, it's already mine. The armor? Yes, take it and may its enchantment protect you from our enemy's cheese knives and be light enough not to drown you if you fall overboard!"
This message was last edited by the player at 03:28, Wed 28 Oct 2009.

"The wine has certainly loosened your tongue Oarsman..." Jean smiles but it cannot be told if it is a comradely grin or an arrogant smirk.

"...in any case I was referring to the the muslim's sword. It is a weapon of some power but I will hold to my "Cercuil Clou"."

He pats his long double edged sword affectionately.

"It has never failed me."

He hold up his cup signaling to the wait staff for more wine.
This message was last edited by the player at 21:29, Tue 27 Oct 2009.

Looking at the Frank ki-niggit, A'kos says to the barmaid, "Yes, bring him more water...but bless it first so it doesn't burn his throat!"

Loukas laughed good-naturedly at Jean's response, "Ah, the Horseman notices that I've been speaking? Well, if wine seems to have loosened my tongue to you, it seems to have loosened more than that in your case to me. Which is good, because you are no longer a passenger, as you might've notice. On the Heart of Oak you're going to be doing some oaring yourself in the coming days and if you pull that crap with your horse aboard our ship you'll have more than enemy cheese knives to worry about."

As he spoke the humor had drained from his face. This Frank was clearly an aristocrat wherever it was he lived, but to a man of Byzantium he was no more sophisticated than most sheepherders. His father is probably poorer than my own cursed father! And that he was still trying to act as if he was a passenger and Loukas a crewman! He could certainly feel the pent up frustration and anger of the past few days begin to roil, but this was not all that was in his head. Glancing quickly around the table he realized that if this group were going to succeed in whatever they were going to do they needed to make clear to his fellow crewman how things need to work.

"What is this? Forgive me, friends, but this has needed to be done for a while and since Miroslav hasn't stepped up to do it, I'll do it..."

Taking another sip of his wine he wipes his mouth and forces a smile, "Jean, I understand you are new to ships, but if we'd been hit by a wave or our opponents been swifter you might've done us some severe damage before we ever met them hand to hand. I look forward to getting to know you better, and maybe we'll even become friends, and I welcome your company as we meld ourselves into not merely a crew, but... Well, a company, eh? Each of us have skills that the others do not have, and that will be useful at times, but we are all going to have to learn to be sailors or we shall never get to those times. Until you learn a shipboard skill more useful, you will be at the oars just like the rest of us. If this seems unfair to you, then get the hell out of here and thank you for choosing the Heart of Oak for your tour of the Black Sea, because your value to us is no greater than the strength of your back no matter how well you ride that damned horse. And if you think I'm afraid of your damned sword regardless of whatever damned armor you are wearing, you've got something more than seamanship to learn!"

A'kos looks at Loukas, and his grin spreads ear to ear as he listens to the young man's tirade.

"HA!" he crows to the others upon the young man's conclusion.  "The lad's tongue is sharp, and his barbs sting!  Methinks he's come into his own, though we shall see."

Turning to Loukas he says, "Well put, but the Frank has skills you do not, as you so aptly pointed out, and we've need of every ally, dubious though they may be.  His horsemanship may be called to question, but his bravery is undeniable, as is his swordsmanship...and loathe as I am to admit it, both would be welcome in our coming travels to be sure.  Careful with your tongue, and your orders if you would keep the company together, as it seems you wish."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:39, Tue 27 Oct 2009.

"I am going to spare you this once as you are clearly in your cups but let me speak clearly. Should you ever address me thusly again there will be blood."

"You are neither my captain nor my lord and to be blunt you never shall be. I will contribute to our quest as I see fit. No more and no less."

"You have come but lately to our company and for you to presume to command me is absurd beyond reason."

A'kos turns from Loukas and considers the knight.  His smile remains, though turns slightly mocking as he says, "Methinks, Sir Knight, that the boy is more clear-headed than you give credit to.  And you'll not draw blood without your own being spilt as well..."

Shaking his head, his grin disappears, replaced by a frown.

"I've never been one for diplomacy - leave that to my cousin, the effete' bastard.  But there is opportunity here, if we can come together...harsh words and threats are for others...let us see what we can make of ourselves, what renown we should find in the service we choose to give!"

"Your suggestion is agreeable but my word is my bond. I will not be disrespected by anyone and if you will all stand against me then I will take as many as I may before I fall. I have no fear of death."

"What I speak is simple truth and if we are to travel and fight together it must be accepted without compromise. There is no threat that you are capable of which will inspire me to accept such abuse without recourse."

"No moreso would yourself I reckon."
This message was last edited by the player at 22:56, Tue 27 Oct 2009.

After brief consideration A'kos nods once to Jean.  To the others he says, "Then let us put aside ill words and enjoy the evening, and tomorrow set whatever course fate lays for us."

Loukas finishes his wine and puts the goblet down.  Jean's response caused him to raise an eyebrow and smirk, but throughout their exchange he kept quiet until A'kos spoke, "You are right, Jean, I have had some wine. They used to say that there is truth in wine, so, perhaps you ought to drink down that cup and get another, because it is clear that you are in need of some truth rather desperately."

Looking around the table he continues, "Perhaps all of us are? While some of you may decide to call this a quest, I respect that, but it is not what I call it. And is it really some sort of romantic reason that has drawn us together? It seems to me that we continue together, because whether or not we knew it before the day we acquired the Heart of Oak. We now know that each of us were serving one faction or another, each of which had an interest in Armin the Persian, and a few of us were not actually what we appeared to be until that day.

"Jean, what you call a quest others call pay for hire, regardless of what you take for pay.  We have been offered an opportunity to help Sviatoslav take a backwater town from John. Vengeance. That is what this is about, eh? That is what holds us together... Well, that and the fact that today, we are  each hunted by the Byzantine Emperor for one reason or another. And his reach and power is rather more significant than most, I think. So, it seems to me that we are together because we are alone otherwise. Which means we are attacking this town with the King of the Rus is an easy way to poke John back."

Turning back to Jean, "So, Jean of the Franks, with this understood, and even if it isn't, if you want my respect you will treat me with respect. Otherwise, let the crew of the Heart of Oak vote to decide which of us will stay... I am willing to abide its result."

"No romanic am I," says A'kos with a sidelong glance at Loukas.  "Except perhaps for that bit I save for little Jaleh.  But now's time you've said enough.  If I can tolerate the knight for the nonce, so can you.  Enjoy your wine, lad...and for the four winds' sake shut up!"

Jean waits calmly to see if the young fool will listen to reason of if he will be forced to make good on his word.

Why am I the one being hushed? Why the hell do we care about this idiot's sensitivities? It was the Frank who spoke down to me, wasn't it? It was aristocrats like this ass who had killed my uncle. And THIS one, who'd nearly killed all of them charging his damned horse of a dragon ship..., the words rushed through his mind.

Loukas turned to A'kos and began to speak, but then stopped, No. He's right. A'kos speaks wisdom... Besides there's nothing else to add. Well, hell, what have I probably do have more to lose if he leaves.

He took a breath and looked at Jean, "A'kos is right. I have said more than I should have."

Pouring himself more wine he raises his glass, "My apologies, Jean. I have had a very bad couple of days and similarly you did not know that you were being disrespectful of me. I am sorry if I was was disrespectful to you in return. If you can accept my friendship, I offer it willingly..."
This message was last edited by the player at 21:31, Mon 21 Nov 2011.

OOC - Just to make this clear and not spoil your fine exchange: Roderychus has not followed the other to the tavern. He will seek some place to wash himself, tend to his gear, pray and, if there is still some time left, get some rest.

If the group decides to seek some prospective crew or more gear the next day he will go along, or else he will look for any local religious spots of significance.

In reply to Roderychus Venturos (msg #73):

OOC: Sorry, Roderychus, I misread your original press. I've edited this from my post later in the evening and moved it here, so that the conversation can take place in our "past".



"So, let's see... What's left? Not much, eh? Though, whatever we got there is worth a pretty penny... I think I understand what you want to do here, but I say we keep whatever else remains until we know we need the gold. We're here, because Sviatoislav needs us. That means as long as our demands are reasonable, he'll meet them. Otherwise, we take our ship and..."

For the past few days, perhaps for the first time in his life, Loukas realizes, that he has been speaking more disrespectfully about powerful men than he'd ever dared do before. You might be a pirate today, Loukas, but if you wish to be an old pirate someday you maybe better start thinking a bit more!

Taking a deep breath, "And we leave."

The impossibly wide Rus listens to the exchange between members of the party without saying a word. When it seems as if it has calmed he says..."We will always fight amongst ourselves. Great men hold the ideal above all others but great men also know when they must compromise. Sheep however, do not quarrel and their entire life is a compromise."

He finishes the last of his mead in one long pull and stands saying...'Now my thirst is quenched but I have other needs that I must attend to. I suggest the rest of you do the same and be ready here in the common room of this inn in the morn so we can find ourselves a crew!"

Loukas raises his goblet to Miroslav when he excuses himself, "Wisdom. The Rus speaks wisdom. Until tomorrow, then! I intend to finish this bottle and then, perhaps, I shall retire as well..."

As Miroslav stands and excuses himself Jaleh arrives to find expressions that range from considering to affronted on the faces of those sitting around the table.

"Did I miss something?" she asks A'kos, her eyes darting toward Jean as she asks.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:16, Thu 29 Oct 2009.

After a moment of no reply Jaleh gives A'kos a frown and asks, "Anyone care to buy a girl a drink?"

With a smile Loukas leans forward and pours Jaleh a drink from one of the bottles Balthazar had ordered, "The Greek has been drinking and apparently when he drinks he speaks... Well, he speaks his mind."

Pouring the wine for Jaleh he raises his glass, "So, here is to you, Jaleh, who would probably be the most beautiful amongst of even if there was another woman here!"

A coy smile flits across Jaleh's face.

"Many thanks, Loukas," she says softly before sipping her drink.

Jean settled back into his chair and set himself to the serious task of drinking and brooding.

His actions of the last few days seemed to him as if they had been performed by someone else.

He had no explanation but the recent treachery they had faced had awakened him to the need for careful thought.

In the future, he resolved, he would be at all times worthy of his family's name.

A'kos looks at Jaleh's flirtations and scowls.  His cup empty, he grabs the pitcher and refills it, and drinks in brooding silence while eying daggers at young Loukas.

Loukas drinks a two more goblets of wine, but with A'kos's well aimed daggers of visualization begining to make him feel something like a pin cushion he opts not to make small talk with Jaleh, but asks Balthazar about the wine pairings that they'd had earlier displaying a convincing knowledge not only of wine, but food as well. Finally, ordering himself a bottle to take to his room he stands, "Til morning shipmates, til morning!"and makes his way upstairs.

Once he is in his room he climbs into bed and as he is drinking wine he cleans his sword.This was the first time since the battle that he'd really had time to attend to it, as he did so with something almost like religiosity. After all, this had been his Uncle's blade and besides a slight guilt (Might he have been better able to defend himself from that bastard had he had you with him?), that he possessed it meant that he still had some tangible connection to him. He took his time with the chore and had nearly finished the bottle by the time he was finished. Once done he grabbed the bottle and his new dagger and climbed into bed. Taking a last swig of the wine he places the dagger under his pillow and blearily fell into a much needed, wine muddled sleep.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:24, Fri 30 Oct 2009.

Any drunken conversations can continue here but the main storyline has moved to the Crew thread.