The cold night air of the Plains of Golarin blows across the open deck of the Wind of Fate. 

The handsome and debonair Wraith Zephyr stands at the helm and guides the windship into the north, his bearing doing little to betray his wound and recent battles.  Beside him stands Zosha Davij Inan, peering inquisitively ahead into the darkness.

Kolarios Viramos, looking no less dashing, crouches just before the aftcastle, examining the multiple wounds suffered by the Arimites Hakim and Nohren.

The brightly plumed Gryph Kar swoops over the deck, recovers his duar from the corpse of a Rajan, and continues scouting about the windship.

The Rahastran Athellin works the sails and rigging, while assisted by Rammid and Rioniv.  The remaining Marukans stand clustered amidships, uncertain of what to do, and huddled against the cold.

The keen eyed Jaka J'landria stands near the stern, eyes watching intently for any sign of pursuit.

J'landria paces, eyes ever scanning the horizon.  Occasionally she stops and looks a little more intensely, but generally she just paces and watches.

She rubs a hand on her eyes and long muzzle, her mouth opening wide in a toothy yawn.  With a sigh she stops and leans on the rail, staring out into the night.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:22, Wed 03 Nov 2010.

In reply to GM (msg #1):

After retrieving his weapon, and taking one last look around the upper decks, Kar looks up into the rigging. Pausing, he seems to find what he is looking for, and launches into the sails to land on one of the masts (booms? Jibs?). Once there, he draws a stone, strap, and cloth and begins cleaning and sharpening the points on his duar.

In reply to GM (msg #1):

"You must be happy to have your vessel back," says Wraith to Zosha.  He blinks a few times and stifles a yawn, relishing the cooler air as it streaks across the deck of the ship.

In reply to Wraith Zephyr (msg #4):

"Yes, that's so.  Honestly, I am not used to all this excitement."  She glances around the ship, the damage it's taken.  "How much work do you think it will be to get it all repaired?"

In reply to Zosha Davij Inan (msg #5):

"She's in decent shape, all things considered," says Wraith.  "There are, however, deck boards that are warped and splintered, and the headsail and mainsail have both been patched several times.  The rigging is pretty frayed, too.  The masts could use some looking after as well.  I know a great shipwright named Talos who lives in The Seven Kingdoms.  He does excellent work.  It will cost you, though.  He's not cheap."

Eyes pointed out toward the horizon and the ground, watching for anything persuing them one of J'landria's ears cocks back to listen to the conversation between Wraith and Zhosha.

"Perhaps we should pursue his services.  For now, we need to get to safety, and I think many of us need to rest.  Can you arrange crewing until morning?  I think we need to keep moving until we have a safe place to be."

In reply to Zosha Davij Inan (msg #8):

"I think that we can improvise for one additional night," says Wraith.  "If there's a play that you'd like me to drop anchor, please let me know."

"No place I can think of.  I gather the idea is to keep heading north until we reach Kar's homeland and his people, where we will be safe from any potential pursuit by the Beastmen and the Rajans.  I do not know how far from here that is, however, but I expect it will at least take until morning.  I know little of running a windship, if I get Athellin to take over for the time being, can you arrange crew and sleeping shifts for everyone until the morning comes?"

In reply to Zosha Davij Inan (msg #10):

Mirna emerges from below decks, and retrieves the other two Djaffir masks.

"J'landria, what can you smell on these?"

In reply to Zosha Davij Inan (msg #10):

"Certainly," says Wraith, waiting for Zosha to return with Athellin
This message was last edited by the player at 15:38, Sat 06 Nov 2010.

In reply to Mirna (msg #11):

As Mirna appears, Kar's interests are peaked.When she approaches J'landria with an object in either hand, he dides to investigate closer and glides down from his perch.

In reply to Wraith Zephyr (msg #12):

Zosha and Athellin return to the helm.  "Would you like me to steer for a bit?" he queries.

In reply to Athellin (msg #14):

"Certainly," says Wraith, moving away from the helm.  As Athellin assumes command of the vessel, he says, "She's a bit sensitive, so be sure to maintain a gentle touch."  Wraith smiles.  "Perhaps Kar and Jaxar can see to the rigging for a bit, too."

J'landria starts and turns to look at Mirna.  She looks at the masks in her hands and then points.

"I smell... One single person.  That and the stench of... rajani, of death," she sighs with a growl.  Her finger slides over and taps the other mask.  "On this one... rajani... death.  Mmmmm, and two people.  One of the smells, he's in the hold.  The other," she shakes her head.  "I don't know.  Not here."

She sighs again, the purring growl and a groan escaping with the breath.  Her eyes look up from the masks to Mirna's face, then to Kar.

In reply to J'landria (msg #16):

"So, what seems to be the cause of excitement...down there?"*As he indicates the way down into the cabins/hold of the ship*

"Muuuurh...  Man who," she makes a movement with her hand.  First it touches her chest over her heart then her forehead and she flings her hand away before letting it fall back to her side.  "Feels wrong.  His mask, two smells, not the one.  Others seem to think... They say that's not normal.  Aalistair says Aa," she shrugs.  "Something isn't right."

She sighs again.  She holds her hands out, palms up in a helpless, almost hopeless gesture.

"I... I don't trust him.  I don't know why."

In reply to J'landria (msg #18):

"Aalistair always says Aa. As for these masks...I've seen their kind before, mostly in the outpost. I never saw any two just the same."

Looking to Mirna

"This man downstairs, is he the one we think we...lost? or is that the question?"

In reply to J'landria (msg #18):

Wraith limps towards J'Landria and Kar, relishing the opportunity to stretch and  move about at leisurely pace.  As he approaches, he notices J'Landria's fevered gesticulations, and the concerned look upon Kar's face, and grows a bit concerned himself.

In reply to Kar (msg #19):

"Kar, that's the question. J'landria, you're saying that you smell rajani on both masks? On this mask, you smell Rajani and someone else, and on this mask you smell Rajani, the man in the hold, and a third person?" Mirna sighs, and looks at both masks. "No, that's not normal. They don't share their masks, ever."

"The stench of death is everywhere," she says with a shrug.  "But yes, on both masks.  That one has... two people to it, similar in smell... But different."
She turns her head and scans the horizon, then the skies before turning back to them.

"That is what I... Understood from what they," she points at the two that were in the hold.  "Said about the... Masks.  They might know more of him."

She looks to Wraith and she reaches out to touch his cheek tentatively.  With a slight brush on his face from her furred fingers she makes a clicking sound.

"In the morning... I will give you some berries.  Tonight I am just too tired to make it work," she tells Wraith quietly.

"Perhaps we need to just lock him away for now, let folks get some rest?"

In reply to Rammid (msg #23):

"You're probably right, Rammid." Mirna looks at the masks with a sigh. "But, if he's really what he says he is, leaving him without his mask is a cruelty."

Mirna takes the masks and heads below decks.

"Thank you," says Wraith.  "That demon took a lot out of me.  How has everything else fared on this vessel?"

"Many are... battered and hurt.  I am too tired to help... my Gods bid me to rest before... before I will be able to do more," she tells Wraith with a shrug, she lets a growl roll out after her last words.  She smiles then, a toothy and bright smile even in the darkness.  She turns and looks out and scans the area behind them.  After a moment she turns back to look at Wraith and Kar, the smile gone and her expression neutral.

In reply to J'landria (msg #26):

"What has transpired below decks?  Were there any Rajan lurking in hull?"

Zosha looks about, murmurs, "We need a captain," then sweeps her eyes again over the deck of the windship and those gathered there.

Jaxar and the two recently captive Cymrilians return to the upper deck.  He glances around.  "I can assist with the sailing and keep watch during the night."

Rioniv offers looks at the assembled Marukans, huddled amidships and offers, "it may be best if I get our untrained crew bunked down.  I can offer a few simple healing spells, then I will need to rest as well." 

In reply to GM (msg #28):

Wraith turns and walks towards Zosha and the rest of the assembled crew.  "Would you like me to assume command of the ship?"  He leans down and rubs the wound on his thigh and looks forward to the opportunity to rest.  "It would be an honor to do so."

The Kasmiran nods, scowling a bit, "Someone needs to.  Indecision at the critical moment will get us killed.  Please set the crewing needs for the night, so we can all get some rest and live until morning.  Then we can discuss running this windship in an effective manner?"

She looks back around, "Obviously, it doesn't need to be autocratic, but we need someone to put people where they need to be.  If it doesn't work for some reason, people can object, but otherwise, we need to all work together, and we need direction."

In reply to Zosha Davij Inan (msg #30):

"She'll remain in the air for the night, I assure you." Wraith looks around at the men, and shares Zosha's sentiment.  "A bit of organization will do quite fine," he says, approaching the Marukans that are loitering around the deck.

Turning to Rioniv, Wraith says, "What we need is someone in the Avir's Nest to make sure that no one or no thing is pursuing us."  He looks again that the Marukans and says, "If any of these men are handy, we could definitely devote some of them to repairing the rigging, nailing down loose planks, and patching holes in the sails.

While we're doing that, we'll also need some bodies to attend to sails, so we can garner some speed and put more distance between us and those pirates.  Something tells me that we haven't seen the lost of those devils." Wraith peers at Jaxar.  "Perhaps you, Rioniv, and I can divvy up manning the helm, too.  I am not averse to working along side these men to address any repairs."
This message was last edited by the player at 03:17, Wed 17 Nov 2010.

In reply to Wraith Zephyr (msg #31):

"I'll take the...nest"

and he suddenly realizes how ironic that statement is

"Heh. Guess you could say I was hatched for that spot."

He'll wait for any objections, or other options before departing.

In reply to Kar (msg #32):

"That will work fine, Kar," says Wraith, smiling.

"I think," she begins, then she looks at the deck.  "If it would be acceptable... I would like to rest so that I can... better tap into Jalar's Grace and Jakar's Wisdom."
The rolling rumble sounds in her throat and when she looks up her green eyes seem weary.
"I can sleep on deck... so that I am easily accessible... if you need me."

Some find their way to bed down for the remainder of the night, others continue their labors to keep the windship moving northward into the dark.

The thin light of dawn finds the Wind of Fate skimming north over the plains.

Exhausted but sitting comfortably in the nest, Kar spies in the distance a darker smudge on the horizon, the woodlands of his home.

Otherwise, all is clear.

Athellin, Rammid, Jaxar, Kar, and a few of the Marukans work the rigging, while the others have turned in to sleep for the remainder of the night.



OoC: Those going without sleep are now quite exhausted...

"I think we will make the woodlands by noon, if we continue on," Athellin calls to those on deck.  "I can continue for a bit, but I am cold and exhausted, and need rest, if someone will wake Wraith to take over?"

Hearing Athellin's words she stirs and removes her cloak, wrapping it around him.  The fabric is still warm from where she was wrapped up and sleeping in it.  With a large and extremely toothy yawn she walks down below decks to find where Wraith is sleeping, stretching as she goes.

In reply to GM (msg #35):

After watching the suns rise over the land of his youth, Kar glides to the deck, and approaches the helm.

"I shall wait for Wraith's reccomendations for releif, but I need to rest before we get...into the wood.
Please, let him know I am waiting."

And with that, he returns to his perch, to watch their approach to the Oaks.

In reply to Kar (msg #38):

"As soon as I see him, I will let you know once I am relieved myself, my friend."

Wraith approaches Athellin and says, "You look as though you could use a rest.  Would you mind if I took over for a while?"

She steps onto the deck and nods.

"I am here to let another sleep," she says, looking up at Kar with some concern.  "As well to offer... healing to those who need it.  Tell me where I should go Wraith."

She then stands and waits.

In reply to J'landria (msg #41):

"I think you should continue to administer healing to those who are tired and still wounded, J'landria, that is, unless you have an interest in helping out the crew.  They are currently completing superficial repairs, inspecting the rigging, etc.  Go where your heart tells you you're needed."  Wraith smiles warmly.

Her head cocks to the side and she nods, she looks back at Kar.

"You need sleep and... I have good eyes.  I will watch for...  I will watch and if I am needed I will heal," she says with a nod.  She moves then, lithely springing up and climbing up to the nest where Kar sits weary.

"Sleep friend, either here... or below."

In reply to J'landria (msg #43):

Athellin yawns and smiles, "I would not mind in the least!  Please do so!"

He relinquishes the helm to Wraith.  "I shall go below and find an empty bunk, and probably occupy it for quite some time!"

He moves belowdecks and drops into a bunk, quickly falling asleep.


The windship moves on, gliding through the chill air, drawing ever closer to the woodlands of Tamaranth.

She looks at her friend and smiles slightly.
"You look tired," she says.

In reply to Athellin (msg #45):

Wraith assumes control of the helm and settles into keeping the ship afloat.

The Wind of Fate glides along, relatively smoothly in the light wind.  The suns rise, hidden behind the cloud cover, adding little warmth to the cold day.  As they reach the zenith, the great trees of the woodland become more clear ahead, resolving into individual trees from the massive forest.

Jaxar, Athellin, and many of the Marukans sleep belowdecks, while Kar roosts in the rigging, his thick plumage shielding him from the cold while he drowses.

Approaching ever closer, it becomes apparent that some of the shapes in flight are larger than avir, and approaching the windship.

The figures swoop closer, and as they become nearer, it is possible to discern from their forms and calls, that they are Gryphs.

One of their loud calls wakes Kar from his slumber up in the rigging.

As they come closer, several of them swing in wide circles around the windship.

In reply to GM (msg #49):

Wraith twists the helm so that the ship turns slightly out of the wind's course and the vessel's speed diminishes considerably.  He peers at the Gryphs and smiles as he watches them circle the vessel.  He waves to one of the passing creatures, hoping to allay any apprehension that they might have about the ship's intent.

In reply to GM (msg #49):

Rousing in the rigging, Kar unfurls his wings and calls out in Avian that we come as friends seeking shelter.

One of the Gryphs waves back, and calls "May we come aboard?"

In reply to GM (msg)

"You're welcome aboard, friend," says Wraith, keeping the vessel steady.

In reply to GM (msg #52):

Calling back "You are welcome aboard. Just be aware we are a mixed crew"

Sits quietly and watches everything happening.  Her green eyes taking in the newcomers and also the reactions of the other crew members at their appearance.

Aalistair comes up on deck from below, looking about. His wide-brimmed hat shields the light of the sun from his eyes.

"So, I see we're still alive. And in the air."

A tall, broad shouldered Gryph swoops in, flaps his wings once, and lands easily on the deck.  "Greetings!  You fly no flag, we were curious as to your purpose flying to our lands?"

In reply to GM (msg #57):

*Kar Glides down out of the rigging to one side of the newcomer*

In reply to GM (msg #57):

"We seek a safe harbor in which to repair our vessel and procure supplies," says Wraith.

In reply to Wraith Zephyr (msg #59):

"We also bring news of activities just south of the Wood"

Seeing the other Gryphs aboard ship, Aalistair walks to the nearest railing to have a look around. Though his knuckles are as white as his garb as he looks out over the edge of the ship, he does his best to try and judge where things are from their vantage point.

"Dhar is not too distant, and likely the best place to go if you wish trade.  I do not know to what extent you can repair.  We have many good craftsmen, but we do not build windships.  I note you have one of our folk aboard."  He looks over at Kar, "Do you know the way to direct this windship to Dhar?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:12, Thu 02 Dec 2010.

In reply to GM (msg #62):

"Yes, I know the area well enough. Before we part, know that there are large numbers of beastmen massing in the south. This ship was recently liberated from pirates who seemed to have some association with them, so be warned."

"Thank you," the Gryph responds.  "As you know, we have little fear of the Beastmen here, though the reverse is not the case.  Nonetheless, we will be vigilant." 

He nods to Kar, and Wraith, "I err in not introducing myself.  I am Rawk, I lead the Farflyers out of Dhar." 

In reply to GM (msg #64):

"I am Kar, and my concern was not for the beasts. There seemed to be some contact between them and those who had taken this ship. My concern is that more such outsiders may be massing a larger horde. To what ends, I know not, but as they smelled as of the stryx, and some weilded dark powers, it is they who should be watched."

"I am Wraith," says Wraith.  "I am honored to meet you."

"Since you fly with one of our people, I see no need for an escort for you," he says to Wraith.  "Fly well on your journey."

To Kar, he adds, "We will take appropriate precautions on the information you've given us.  Thank you."

He then spreads his wings, preparing to take flight.

J'landria watches from the Avir's nest with some awe.  Her green eyes flick between speakers and when the one bids farewell to Kar, and the others on the ship she waves her own farewell silently.

The windship continues on, and well before the suns dip below the horizon, the Wind of Fate cruises over the great span oaks, visited by further patrols as you near the great Aerie of Dhar.

In reply to GM (msg #69):

Wraith handles the ship as cautiously as possible.  He is awed by the trees, especially as the light fades across the tops of them.  He is eager to touch down and stretch his legs.

In reply to Wraith Zephyr (msg #70):

Mirna comes on deck just as the Gryph flies off, and walks over to Wraith at the helm. "Looks like I missed something interesting." she watches as the Gryph fades into the distance. "Everyone, we need to talk about the Djaffir."

"Agreed," says Aalistair from the ship's railing. "I've been praying and looking for guidance." He sighs. "Everything looks so much different from up here. Makes one wonder how the Almighty sees us."

In reply to Mirna (msg #71):

Wraith smiles at Mirna and says, "I am utterly in the dark about this Djaffir.  Would you care to fill me in?"

In reply to Wraith Zephyr (msg #73):

"To be quite honest, I'm not sure what to tell. Jaxar and I found a locked room below. Jaxar told me he smelled Marukians and Rajani inside the room, we opened it to find our Marukian crew members and a Djaffir, with no mask. We found three masks in our search of the ship - one is the captive's, one was his wife's, and the third was his son's. J'landria smelled multiple scents on the captive's mask, including Rajani." Mirna shrugs. "I cannot tell you if he's truly Djaffir or a good con artist. I gave him his mask, if he is what he says he is it would be cruel to do otherwise. He has said he'll join us if we'll have him, or we can set him down wherever is convenient. I know we need more hands on board, and he may have useful information, but I do not want him left alone loose on the ship until we know who he is."

In reply to Mirna (msg #74):

"I myself am inclined to jettison him at our earliest convenience, unless we can somehow prove beyond reasonable doubt that he is who he says he is.  Thanks for the information, though."

Aalistair nods as Mirna describes the captive below-decks.
"When I first caught a glimpse of his face, I thought that I saw the red eyes and horns of a Rajani. The visage shimmered? Shifted? In any case, it reverted to a sad and dirty man within an eye-blink. However, I also have to say that at that point it was the heat of battle, things were dim, and I was injured." He shakes his head. "I cannot offer any further information, but I do feel that our ... guest... is not entirely trust-worthy."

"Perhaps he is possessed, or his shape is shifted," says Wraith.

Aalistair nods. "Perhaps. But I know of no way to immediately determine the truth of the matter."

In reply to Aalistair (msg #76):

Mirna directs a piercing stare at Aalistair. "Truly, priest? This settles it for me. We set him down as soon as possible, with just enough food and gear as compassion requires." Mirna yawns "And then, I'm getting some real sleep."

In reply to Mirna (msg #79):

"We should seek the cousel of the Ariane before we make any hasty decisions. They would be able to see the truth in this man's eyes"

In reply to Kar (msg #80):

((OOC: Do we have an Ariane on board? I thought I was paying better attention than that *looks confused*))

"Truly, warrior." He bears what seems to be a sad smile, and with one hand gestures at the horizon. "Take a look at the view from here and compare it with what you know of how things look from the ground. Now imagine how Aa sees things compared to what our meager eyes can perceive." He shakes his head. "I can consult Aa's will in this, but I am not sure I wish to stake another man's life on what little I can discern of Aa's true and all-seeing sight. No. If these Ariane of the Northern Woods can determine what is in his heart, that is one thing, but for my part I cannot tell."

J'landria watches from the Avir-nest her large ears twitches as she listens to the conversation.

Kolarios yawned and then smiled. "Here is what we will do... we shall wait until the dead of night, sneak most stealthily down to the hold, grab up this so-called Djaffir, tie him up like an Erd at reaping, and rip off his mask!" The Zandir looked around with a brilliant air, nodding to everyone. "They have horns and red eyes! Clever and quick, that is how a Zandir deals with masked fools."

There is a moment's silence.

"Wait a tick, you say he had no mask on when you first came upon him? Well, did he have horns?"

Aalistair seems to marshal his patience with a momentary pause.

"I saw the horns and eyes, but only for a moment. I was tired and injured, so I may have been mistaken. Nonetheless, I do not trust him." The Aamanian grimaces. "So, no. He did not have horns while he was unmasked. We questioned him somewhat and he appeared as normal as you ... er, as normal as I."

In reply to Aalistair (msg #85):

Mirna shakes her head "I do not have the... increased perception that some of our crew has, " she gestures towards Aalistair, Jaxar, and J'landria, "so I must trust their judgment when it comes to issues of less than physical nature. Jaxar and J'landria have smelled Rajani on this fellow, Aalistair had a vision of horns. I will trust this. We would do well to be rid of him."

"Keep him, get rid of him... it is a difficult dilemma.  We should probably feed him, however."

In reply to Rioniv (msg #87):

((OOC: "We should probably feed him, however." LOL and ourselves... I don't think Mirna's eaten since we left Deadwood))

The Wind of Fate glides towards Dhar in the afternoon, the chill of the day never truly subsiding.

There are no formal windship docks in Dhar, but there are locations clearly set up for windships to draw up to the out limbs of some of the great span oaks, limbs which can easily bear the weight of a crewman.

In reply to GM (msg #89):

Wraith gently steers the vessel towards the branches and moors close enough for anyone who wants to disembark to easily access one of the massive limbs jutting from the trees.

In reply to Wraith Zephyr (msg #90):

((OOC: Any ideas about the "Djaffir"? Dump him? Kill him? Keep him?))

In reply to Mirna (msg #91):

As the vessel moors, Wraith turns his attention to the dubious passenger that currently resides below deck.  He steps away from the helm and searches for Mirna, using the Draffir as an excuse to ogle her. We should get him off the ship as quickly as possible and alert the Gryphs that he may be a Rajan, says Wraith to himself.

Strides forward confidently and bows her head to Mirna and Wraith.

"I have an idea," she tells them.  "Have him bathe and give him fresh clothes, stuff that doesn't... have the polluted smell of the Rajani on it.  Ask him to help with some... menial tasks, let him sweat.  Then I will have... a talk with him.  After he's been in the... clothing for a bit I will be able to tell if the scent... is still the same as the first time, as well as if it... matched the mask, and if he carries any more of the scent of those who kidnapped him."  She nods, her speech punctuated with the normal quiet growls.  "This is my best hope of telling.  I can ask why... Why there were two scents on the mask."

In reply to J'landria (msg #93):

"Excellent idea. Anyone have a change of clothes he can fit into? I don't think he can wear mine..."

In reply to J'landria (msg #93):

"That sounds like a rational idea," says Wraith.  "We need to make sure that he's never alone on the vessel, though.  We can't take any chances."

In reply to Wraith Zephyr (msg #95):

((OOC: Guys? Are we moving off this thread to explore Dhar? I'm kinda dangling here...))

"Aye, I suppose I could allow the fellow the shirt from my back for a while," says the Aamanian. "My pack is still below along with my sword."


OoC: I'm not sure if all of us are exploring Dhar, so we should keep this thread going with J'landria's idea.

In reply to Mirna (msg #96):

OOC:

Yes

In reply to Wraith Zephyr (msg #98):

Seeing that most of the group has left to wander Dhar, Mirna rummages through the gear left by the previous crew to try and find suitable clothing for the Djaffir. Once she finds a complete change of clothes for him - preferably a few complete changes - she sets them aside, in different piles, for J'landria to get the scent of when she returns.

Once that is complete, she will check in with Rammid, and then climb to the avir's nest to look for any pursuit.

J'landria inspects the new clothes, finding their smell.  When she is confident that she knows what the scent of the clothes is she lifts a pile and carries them down and unlocks the door and opens it to look for the man who needs them.

In reply to Mirna (msg #99):

Wraith follows Mirna down into the hold to get a better look at the passenger in question.  He pins in white, silver-tinged hair behind his head with an adamant hoop as he ascends the stairs.

"What do you honestly think, Mirna.  Do you think our odd passenger is who he says he is, or what?"

In reply to Wraith Zephyr (msg #101):

"Honestly, I do not. I do wonder if he knows he's not what he says he is."

Returning from the treetops of Dhar she spots Mirna and Wraith.

"A feast," she says pointing off the ship.  "Would be a perfect... time to be rid of the... unknown passenger.  They will cook food for you.  Pass the word around.  All are invited, I will fetch the... man below."
When she finishes speaking she bobs her head and marches away, heading back toward the decks below without waiting for any kind of reply.

In reply to J'landria (msg #103):

Mirna shrugs, stows the halberd in a safe spot on the ship, and disembarks.

On the last day of the repairs, Hree approaches the windship, her sharp eyes seeking out and locking onto J'landria.  She lands near to her, bobs her head once, and speaks, "K'Rhee sent out word for any to report seeing a Jaka youngling recently.  We have received word back that a hunter to the northwest did spot two Jaka, an adult and a youngling, a couple of weeks back, heading south.  Also, nearly a month ago, two adults and two younger Jaka were seen, heading east."

She ruffles her feathers some, settles again, "Sorry, this may not be very helpful, but at the time, none were seeking this young Jaka."

She also seeks out Kar, saying to him, "Our scouts have also sought out the ones you spoke of at the Fangs.  The Beastmen have moved north and west."

Hree and the other Gryphs take their leave.

Repairs finish on the Wind of Fate, and while the windship could still use some further tending, it is once again sturdy and ready to fly.

Thus it is, that on the 37th day of Talisandre, the windship takes flight from the great forest of Tamaranth, flanked by an honor guard of Gryph Hunters as she leaves.

The flight of the Wind of Fate is smooth enough, though it makes for a long day flying through the chill air over the Plains of Golarin, with an inexperienced crew.  The winds are not with you, and cruising speed is low, but in the light of the setting suns, finally the hills, and then the town itself of Deadwood can be seen ahead.

The last light of the setting suns flashes upon the brilliant green crystal of the Cymrilians' Green Tower.


OoC:  Those wishing to stay aboard can post to this thread or the crew quarters thread as appropriate.  Those debarking can feel free to post in the Deadwood/Green Tower thread.

With the Wind of Fate loaded, gear stowed, and ready to go, Zosha looks to Wraith.  "Either to Kasmir or Cymril we're headed, if you'd like to take us on our way.  Either way, I surmise south and somewhat to the west will be the heading to start." 

She looks around at those gathered, adds, "I'd like to work out more about how we will arrange our crew once we've gotten underway."

The windship is loaded with the graymanes and remaining gear, snow and ice swept clear from the rigging, and the windship begins it travels towards the south before the suns reach the zenith.

There is little wind, but the skilled pilots manage to rise higher where some breezes still play, and begin to make slow, but steady headway.

Aalistair stands on the deck, leaning on the railing, watching Deadwood fade into the background again.

He'll ask the first crewmember who happens by, "So, now that we've got a pair of capable pilots, and we've got a small crew, what do the rest of us do? I'm not much of a sailor, nor do I care much for our soaring the heights." He stomps a booted foot on the deck. "What can I do to best help and ensure our speedy and accident-free return to land again?"

Aeletheros speaks up to Zosha when he has an opportunity; "I will travel with you wherever you choose. It is an aeromancer's lot to follow the path of the winds. I will also assist with training any about the nuances of working on a windship."

In reply to Aalistair (msg #110):

Zosha smiles at the Aamanian.  "I'm afraid that for the sake of sailing this vessel, as small as our numbers are, we'll all need to learn to be sailors, at least at some level.  Even myself.  I was going to discuss this below, but I was thinking, Aalistair, that a man such as yourself, having prepared for many journeys, perhaps you might consider staying on as our quartermaster?"

Aalistair takes his hat off before speaking to the small woman. "I'd be honored to help out, ma'am, but to be honest, my experience lies chiefly in reading the signs of the soil and the sky to determine if safety is ahead. And in ministering to the spiritual well-being of those in my care." He looks about the deck. "Here, there is little soil to read and those aboard follow other faiths." There is little scorn in his words, more a calm resignation and acceptance.
This message was last edited by the player at 20:15, Fri 01 Apr 2011.

In reply to Zosha Davij Inan (msg #108):

"My previous actions may have been... less than correct," Mirna smiles ruefully at Abn Quam, "But I hope you all will give me another chance to lead."

"I will do what is needed from me," she says with a shrug.  "For as long as I can."

The Wind of Fate travels slowly but smoothly south in the nearly still air.  It feels slow by comparison to some speeds the windship has maintained, but yet it is still considerably faster than any caravan on the ground.

The day passes with little to see, beyond the odd avir, or a batranc flying high in the distance.

As the suns sink toward the western horizon, Athellin seeks out Wraith and asks, "Do you wish to try to travel during the night with this green crew and only the three of us to take turns at the helm?  Or should we descend and drop anchor?"

In reply to Athellin (msg #117):

"If you'll forgive the pun, let's not tempt fate."  Wraith smiles and stretches his sore neck and shoulders.  "Let's cautiously drop anchor and batten down the hatches for the night.  I think that we should also organize a watch."

The Rahastran nods, turns the helm back over to Wraith.

The fumbling of most of the crew makes it clear it's a good choice in the cold, dark of night.

There are plenty to fill the watches during the night.  The winds remain still, and the night passes uneventfully.

J'landria does everything she's asked to do as well as she can, and when she's not tasked to work, she's watching the ground below.  Her normal role of tracking made a bit more difficult by the distance from the ground she still tries to keep an eye on the land and things moving on it.

The day dawns overcast and dim, but the winds are thankfully brisker.

The Wind of Fate makes better progress this day, bypassing the fortress of Karfan in mid morning, and sailing on to pass the Sindarin capital of Nankar just before mid day.

As the daylight wanes, sharp eyes spot the fortress of Ikarthis ahead.

Pointing towards the bulk of Ikarthis in the distance. "There. Is that where we're berthing for the night?"

Aeletheros takes turns with Wraith piloting the windship. In between turns and sleep he works diligently with the crew teaching them as best he can how to assist with piloting the windship. He is also willing to take a watch if necessary although sleep is a good thing for a pilot.

When Wraith is not piloting the ship, he either rests for a few hours below deck or paces the deck and observes the crew.  Happy with their progress, he is even happier to have Aeletheros aboard to help make sailors of them.

He offers a word of encouragement, here and there, when he sees fit.  In truth, the closer he draws to the Seven Kingdoms, the heavier his thoughts.

Looking from the fortress to the Aamanian and back, the man gives a slow nod.  "It would seem as good a place as any.  No worry of sub men coming upon us during the night." 

In reply to Athellin (msg #125):

Mirna eyes the exhausted crew "And in the shape we're in, the less fighting the better."

The contingent at Ikarthis welcomes travelers, by land or by air, and the windship is able to dock and remain for the night.  Although primarily a fortress, the outpost of Ikarthis does have a trading post and an inn, providing some brief diversion.

The following morning, the windship is prepared to travel on, arriving at the sprawling, grey city of Kasmir just after mid day.

Aalistair will walk the decks, following some of the deck-hands, in an attempt to learn at least the basics of this strange airborne conveyance. Occasionally, he will remark about the wonders of Aa's creation and the strangeness that Aa's wisdom puts before all believers.

J'landria will speak when spoken to, do as she's instructed, but otherwise sit back and watch.  She'll offer to sit on watch half the night or longer when they park the ship for rest.

Wraith continues to pace the deck, from time to time proffering advice to Aalistair, and marveling at the landscape below.  He Recalls a stint as a mercenary at that spartan outpost; a wry smile spreads across his face as he recollects a late-night encounter with a Danuvian warrior.

The clouds of the night before are blown back by a southerly wind coming from the Kasmir deserts, and the new day dawns bright, yet windy.

By late morning, the windship has made the city of Kasmir, a great, sprawling grey place, home to the small, wrinkled folk known by the same name.

Zosha directs the pilots to the most affordable windship docks.

"Mirna, if you could see to the security of the Wind of Fate, I am sure the rest of us would feel most at ease?" she smiles up at the much taller woman.

Looking around at the group, she adds, "I need to make some arrangements that our finances will be sufficient for the repairs we'll be making.  I'd like to stay two nights here, after which we should move on to Cymril."

Aalistair nods. "I for one would be glad of some solid ground beneath my feet again. Is there an Aamanian presence here in Kasmir? Perhaps I could visit my own kin and report on what has been occuring to the east."

She looks a bit distracted, but then responds, "Ah, yes, I believe there is.  Certainly a regular presence of some sort.  A good many pilgrims travel through Kasmir." 

In reply to Zosha Davij Inan (msg #132):

"I think I'll stay in the nest, after some judicious scouting about. Any objections, or suggestions I should know about the city?"

"Only that our people are... protective... by nature, and you would want to take care that your scouting is not mistaken for casing," she answers the tall Gryph.

In reply to Zosha Davij Inan (msg #136):

"Right...don't glide through town without a clear destination. What about the game in the outskirts? Anything worth stocking up on?"

"I must admit to not being well versed on the game in the area.  I am sure much of it is different from the forests of your homeland, as Kasmir is largely deserts."

In reply to Zosha Davij Inan (msg #138):

"...Right. You buy most of your food, don't you."

And without waiting for a reply, he takes off. There's got to be Something he can find to track down out there, edible or not.

J'landria watches the conversation and then watches Kar take off.  She looks to the small woman and offers a weak smile.

"Too many people," she says weakly.  "I am... not accustomed to so many people in one place."

She seems obviously uneasy but she just stands and stares out at the throngs below.

"If you could ask about a Jaka youngling coming through, I would appreciate it."

"Yes, it is many people.  I supposed you are as unaccustomed to it as I am to the wide open spaces," she smiles at J'landria.  "If you'd like, you may accompany me about, but if it is uncomfortable for you, I will certainly make inquiries on your behalf." 

If a Jaka could turn green, J'landria's expression says that she just did.

"I... I should join you," she says after swallowing hard.  "The... I need to learn to walk among your kind with ease eventually.  This is a good start."

Her words are strong, but her eyes show just how anxious she is about the prospect.

"You can come with me.  It may be a stretch, but I would hope that would comfort you as it would me to walk beside you in your homeland," she smiles up at the lithe Jaka.

She looks down at the small woman and smiles toothily for a moment with a nod.

"You can... tell me of the city, the buildings.  It can be fun," she says.  Her words are optimistic, but her tone still speaks of some anxiety.

With the arrival of the 8th of Zar, a small group of a half dozen merchants board the Wind of Fate.  There are some skeptical looks at the mainly Marukan crew, but while these merchants appear successful enough, they are apparently not so wealthy as to complain about who crews and unexpectedly inexpensive windship flight.

The journey, in a bit of luck not commonly associated with Marukans, goes smoothly; two days flight each way, plus two days at the Thrall city of Tor while the merchants conduct their business.

Zosha is able to line up several other paying customers who are willing to fly with an inexperienced (and motley) crew at the low rates offered.

First comes a trip to Vashay with a complement of blue and green Aeriad passengers.  They delight in the journey, the blues especially, letting the wind catch them, and gliding from the rigging to the deck and back again.

Next, a group of craftsmen wish to travel to Durne to negotiate with the Gnomekin to harvest some ironwood.

The third trip brings a group of wealthy young Cymrilians to Astar for a vacation.  They are not the wealthiest, but certainly of the privileged class to afford even cut-rate windship transportation for a vacation.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:56, Mon 02 May 2011.

J'landria stays on the deck, watching each and every group.  She'll interact with them if they approach her, but if not, she just absorbs their actions and personalities.

Wraith plies his trade with genteel flourish and  refined gusto.   He offers the passengers a friendly smile.  He is particularly fond of the coterie of lovely ladies and boards the vessel, and takes advantage of any moment available to flirt with them.  He also seems particularly fond of the Thrall warriors.  He asserts rather humorously that, were he not engaged in flying the vessel, he would happily teach them a thing or two about grappling, which sends the massive warriors into fits of laughter.

She smiles at the exploits of Wraith, watching him easily interact with people with a touch of wonder.

Aalistair will be a constant presence upon the deck, day and night. Aside from learning the basics alongside the Marukans (and some may despair that the Marukans fare better than he), he also uses some clear deck space in the early mornings to practice with his staff and the same space in the early evening to observe the heavens.

Aeletheros keeps busy with piloting, working to teach others the basics of windship piloting, and checking the various systems that keep the windship operative. He does socialize at times with the various passengers but otherwise is nose-deep in his grimoire, doing research, refining his abilities, and taking copious notes.

As the other remain on deck, checking the windship and rigging, as Aeletheros and Aalistair are going through some of the upper rear rigging, they find some scraps of cloth and twine spun together, and a few light scratches in the wood, almost appearing like something between an avir and a rat's nest.  It doesn't appear to have any current residents.

Much of the rest of the windship appears to still be in excellent condition.  It is also much more pleasant with all the Rajan gear removed.

Aalistair pokes at the 'nest.' "This seems odd," he remarks to Aeletheros. "Ever seen the like?"

Wraith peers at the nest and scratches his head.  "I wonder if we have some stowaways of some kind."

Seeing the others curious about the little nest, Rammid also clambers up to have a look.  "Looks a bit like a Nag Avir nest," he comments.

In reply to Rammid (msg #155):

"Perhaps we should have a closer look," says Wraith, climbing a bit higher so that he can have a better look at the nest.

Wraith climbs up, perching with Aeletheros and Aalistair, pushing his finely coiffed head near to the little nest.  He prods delicately at it with his finger...

While the other airmen crowd around the nest, Aalistair looks around at the surrounding sky. Nag-avir are true pests, in his vaunted opinion. Though it is odd that no one noticed one hanging about the ship.

Wraith retreats a bit when he notices the scales.   "A Nag-Avir, I should've known."  The thin airman descends and says.  "Luckily, they're relatively harmless - unless you consider annoyance injurious.  They're annoying to stomach, too, so eating this stowaway is out of the question.  Shall we remove the nest and be done with it?"
This message was last edited by the player at 13:19, Fri 03 June 2011.

Aalistair looks back to Wraith. "Sure thing... only, don't these fiends travel in flocks? Once, when I was leading pilgrims from Sindar out towards Deadwood and beyond, a huge group of them attached itself to a penitent at the back of our baggage train." He smiles at the memory then suddenly gets serious. "But they attracted so many other things, a pack of ravengers not the least. We wound up burying that penitent out in the Plains of Golarin. His grave had already been desecrated by the time we returned from the Watchstone." Aalistair makes a simple sign against evil. "Let's get rid of the nest and keep an eye out for other signs."

It does seem odd, as the nag avir most commonly do travel, and even nest, in flocks.  They are so noisy and obnoxious, it certainly seems strange that one would be nesting here all alone.

In reply to GM (msg #161):

"Kar, can you please do a close sweep of all the rigging, see if there are more nests anywhere?"

Wraith purses his lips and peers more closely at the scales; something about them disturbs him.  He furrows his eyes as something untoward occurs to him . . .

OOC:

Wraith Zephyr rolled 14 using 1d20+6. Wraith Arcane Lore Roll.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:28, Fri 10 June 2011.

Aeletheros looks over at Wraith, noticing the change of expression on his face. He lets Wraith concentrate on whatever it is he is thinking about and waits to find out what it is that disturbs his new friend.

Spying Aeletheros looking on, Aalistair asks, "Begging your pardon, Phantasian, but aren't there stories that your folk once possessed some of the Sight of Aa? If you can truly see the threads of the arcane, perhaps give this mess a gander and see what might be revealed?" Though Aalistair didn't put much faith in tales of old Paradoxist wives, there was always a chance that Aa had put this one in this place so that his talent might be put to use.

Aeletheros nods at Aalistair's suggestion, cursing himself inwardly for forgetting his natural-born gifts. He smiles softly and replies to Aalistair; "Give me a few moments to focus my thoughts." He narrows his eyes and concentrates, taking deep slow breaths as he focuses on the nest and the immediate surroundings. He looks for any glimmer of enchantment that would show the nest as something out of the ordinary.

OOC: 12:49, Today: Aeletheros rolled 26 using 1d20+6. Detect magic special ability (no modifiers added for difficulty)
This message was last edited by the player at 16:52, Wed 15 June 2011.

As the fair Phantasian and grizzled Aamanian talk, Wraith Zephyr gazes more deeply at the nest.

In reply to GM (msg #167):

"I am certain that we're dealing with something infernal or demonic, here.  I am not sure which, but it is more than just a nuisance and should be extirpated forthwith."  Wraith's fingers slither around the pommel of his blade and he peers at his comrades.

In reply to Wraith Zephyr (msg #168):

[OOC: Is Kar around?]

"Hmm. Is it someone, or someone's eyes I wonder?"

Mirna scans the rigging to see if she can climb out to the nest and get rid of it.

Aalistair makes the sign of the eye above his head at Wraith's words. Then he begins to mutter a prayer, holding his eyes open and chanting quietly. "Aa give me sight. Reveal to thy humble servant the evil of this world."

---

Aalistair rolled 14 using 1d20+2. Casting Witchfinder.
{50', 1 minute (10 rounds), Detect "evil" magic in effect with Per roll at +8}
Aalistair rolled 21 using 1d20+10. PER roll to detect 'evil'. (before whatever penalties for its nature or ability to hide)

Mirna looks up, and begins climbing up into the rigging to join the three men clustered around the tiny nest.  (It's beginning to get crowded up here!)

In reply to Mirna (msg #169):

"I think you're right," says Wraith, peering at Mirna.   "If it is what I think it is, perhaps we can compel it to speak divulge its secrets to us."

Aalistair grunts. "I think it's already done what ever evil it was tasked with. If you lot think you can remove it safely, feel free." Then he slowly starts to make his way back down to the relative safety of the deck.

Aeletheros looks over after concentrating on the area; "There is some slight residual magic among the scales. Does seem like whatever it is or was is gone now however."

Rioniv, looking on, suggests "Perhaps, if we leave it undisturbed, we might keep watch, and see if whatever it is returns?"

Reaching the deck, Aalistair responds, "Aye. Definitely keep watch. Though one is inclined to wonder how this was formed with no one noticing."

Looking up, Aalistair sees that the little nest is not readily apparent from the deck, tucked away in the upper rigging.

As Kar completes his sweep, he reports a similar 'nest' tucked away in the under-rigging below.  He reports that he is certain these were not there when leaving the Fangs of Golarin, as he performed an inspection then.

Aalistair looks worried when Kar mentions one below the ship as well. "No others," he shouts out to the Gryph. "Just the one above and one below?"

"I see no others," Kar calls back, and flies about to make another circuit of the windship.

"Other what?" queries Athellin, as he returns to the windship.  He looks around quickly, then says to Rammid, "If you might head down, Zosha would like your input on a few things." 

"Possible nag-avir nests. Two. One in the mast above. One below." He points up to where some of the crew are above. He sighs. "I say possible. They certainly look like nag-avir nests. But, there are only two. And we haven't seen or heard any of the vile pests, so..." His voice trails off as he looks up at where the nest is located.

"Yes," he nods, "it would be unusual to have them nesting right here on board and not to have seen or heard them."

He begins to climb through the rigging, looking about.  "Might be worth a nice thorough look around, in case Kar doesn't get a good angle from the air."

Aeletheros mentions his observation to Athellin as well; "There is also a lingering trace of magic on the nest in the upper mast. Not quite sure where it is from, but it is definitely there."

Wraith strokes his chin and says.  "I suspect that these stowaways might have been planted by some of my enemies, but I am not certain.  Be that as it may, I suggest that we search the vessel thoroughly to make sure that nothing else lurks unseen."   The tall airman shakes his head and peers at nests for a few more moments.

In reply to Wraith Zephyr (msg #183):

"We would do well to have individual searches on each deck - minimize the risk that it is staying a step ahead of us." Mirna ensures that there is someone searching each deck ((OOC: How many decks "below" are there?)) and heads to the lowest deck herself.

In reply to Mirna (msg #184):

Aalistair nods at the Danuvian's suggestion. "I'll take a section below as well. If any of you see anything, give a shout."

---

Today: Aalistair rolled 24 using 1d20+4. PER roll.
Woot! But that's before whatever penalties from the unknown thing's stealth or the like. If there is even anything to find.

As the search continues, Zosha and the others who have been visiting the city below return, some goods in tow.

She steps up and looks to Wraith.  "Before we leave, I'd like to swing by the lower market, near the base of the mesa, and pick up some additional goods.  Some few weapons; perhaps we'll have some market for them in Maruk."

"As you wish," says Wraith.  "However, you should know that we discovered that something has nested high up in the rigging.  I am not completely certain, by my studies tell me that it is diabolic or demonic - a servitor imp, possibly."  Wraith peers up at the masts.  "We've initiated a search of the entire vessel.  I am unsure, but this may have something to do with my presence on your ship.  If you would like me to depart at this juncture or the next port-of-call, I completely understand."

She glances briefly up into the rigging, "Aye, well, that'd be why we have the benefit of you lot -- I'm just the merchant.  Handle whatever it is as you see fit." 

She looks over Wraith, appraisingly, raising her eyebrows.  "I'm afraid you won't be getting out of your contract so easily.  We have an agreement for you to serve as pilot aboard our windship, and a little concern about some imp or other isn't going to cause us to lose our pilot!" 
This message was last edited by the player at 12:09, Fri 24 June 2011.

Wraith smiles and tilts his head.  "I am at your service, then."  He peers up at the rigging again and says, "The nest is just up there, tucked cunningly behind the sails.  We're thinking of waiting to see if whatever made it returns.  We might be able to determine its origin if we capture it.  In the meantime, as I mentioned before, we're going to search the rest of the ship and make sure that there are no other surprises in store for us."

"Yes, yes, search the ship, if that is what you deem necessary," she nearly prattles.  "But can that be done while we are underway?"

More quietly, she adds, "There are some surprises with this windship..."


A thorough search of the windship takes a couple of hours, turning up little else of interest beyond perhaps some older curiosities that may have been missed in previous going overs of the ship, though these are few and far between.

Getting underway, the windship makes good progress into the east, taking a bearing for Maruk.

Aalistair takes time at noon to pray but then continues his duties aboard ship. While doing so, he keeps an eye out for nag-avir... or anything else unusual.

"Aalistair," she calls.  "Please show me the... nests."

She moves to where he stands.

The Aamanian looks puzzled a moment. "Ah, yes. You were away with Zosha when we found them." He'll walk to a spot behind the main mast and point up. "The first one we found is just up there. Kar says there's another similarly placed in the mast below, but I haven't seen that one. There's some strange magical residue about the one up there, but I can't tell much about that."

She nods and climbs up to get a better look at the strange nest that was found.

The afternoon is cool, nearly cold, the wind blowing as the Wind of Fate makes its way east.

A batranc can be seen in the distance, but does not appear interested in approaching the windship.

With the distance to be traveled, Maruk won't be reached before dark, and likely not until sometime the next day.
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:24, Wed 29 June 2011.

She shifts her grip and looks closer at the object, sniffing at it a bit and then looking around, not touching roughly it but messing with it as carefully as she can without disturbing it too much physically.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:58, Wed 29 June 2011.

J'landria, in turn, looks over the little nest perched in the rigging.


As the suns dip towards the west, the windship flies on to the east, almost as though the light is filling the sails and driving it onward.


OoC:  Flying through the night, or stopping?

"This isn't a nag-avir nest," she says with a growl.

"It's full of grass, rags, and some small scales.  The few feathers," she shakes her head.  "Not nag.  Something else."

She sighs and carefully pulls the nest down, intending to examine it more closely in a less dangerous and difficult place.

((Either way, J'landria has no opinion on the subject.))

As the suns set and Aalistair finishes his evening prayers, he heads towards the back of the ship to ask about travel plans.

"Nightfall. I'm not sure how you lot manage to fly this thing by the stars, as informative as they may be. How safe would it be to anchor for the evening and continue on at first light?"

In reply to Aalistair (msg #199):

"We can certainly stop," says Wraith, peering up at the stars.  "Navigation at night is always tricky, even when the weather's favorable."  The airman leans against the railing and yawns.  "How did the search go?  Any more nests?

"Aside from top and bottom, I know of no others," says the Aamanian. "Tell me, could the locations at each end of the ship like that... could someone use that to track us?"

In reply to Aalistair (msg #201):

"Yes, unfortunately.  I fear that we might have unwittingly taken on new passengers when we dropped anchor in Cymril.  I am not entirely sure, though.  It could be Rajan, too, but I doubt it.  It seems too subtle."

"Agents of the Rajani, perhaps then? We know they targeted this windship before. Perhaps others. Mayhaps their agents place these markers on ships, then the track them and sell their locations to the Rajans?" Aalistair knew this was all speculation of the wildest sort, but as the suns set, his mind frequently turned to the dangers that lurked in the darkness.

Holding the bundle she approaches the men.

"While I am able to... tell some things, are either of you able to identify... these things," she asks as she holds up the nest.

Aalistair shrugs. "It looked like a nag-avir nest to me. But I haven't seen any of the pests around. And they are usually quite noticable."

As night comes on and darkness descends, a decent outcropping of rocks is found to tie off the anchor ropes to and secure the windship for the night.  Now scores of miles from the border of the Seven Kingdoms, it is an eerie and quiet barren wilderness that you have come to.

"I think we need to get these away from us," she says while carefully looking over the contents.  "But, I want Jaxar to look at them too.  I also think the one on the bottom should be fetched.  Maybe find some kind of Avir or a Batranc and attach this to one of them and let them go on their own separate way from us."

She looks out into the night and sighs, a small growl or purr sliding out with her breath.

Jaxar will approach, look over the nest, and sniff at it, and then back off with a sneeze and a low growl.  "I know not exactly what it may be, but it's no nag avir, and I'd judge no natural animal at all."



GM post

OoC: Moving things along in this thread, to when Wraith and Aeletheros arrive on deck during the middle of the night.


As Athellin said, when Wraith and Aeletheros arrive on deck, there is little evidence of activity beyond the screeching wind itself.  From time to time, one almost thinks there are voices speaking in the wind, but the words are just to faint or garbled to make anything out.

After about an hour's more blowing and shrieking wind, it dies down, and remains quiet for the remainder of the night.

With the arrival of the morning, the wind has also dropped almost to nothing, as if it has spent its full fury the night before, and has no more to give.

It is possible to catch some stray breezes, and make some forward progress changing altitude, but it may not be possible to make Maruk today.


OoC:  Piloting rolls please from whoever is going to attempt to pilot the Fate, and PER rolls all around, please. 

Still clearly agitated from the incident the night before, J'landria stalks the deck, nose to the almost non-existent wind, eyes darting over the landscape above and below.  Her ears shift to catch each sound, locate it, then identify it before beginning the swivel again.

Aeletheros works hard to keep the ship moving forward trying to catch any stray forward wind. His attention is primarily focused on doing the most he can to quicken the journey to Maruk.

OOC: 18:57, Today: Aeletheros rolled 23 using 1d20+7. Piloting roll.
18:57, Today: Aeletheros rolled 8 using 1d20+6. PER roll.
(wow that is almost as directly opposite a pair of rolls to get, I had a feeling about it too...lol)

As Aletheros assumes control of the helm, Wraith busies himself with supervising the crew and making sure that nothing untoward occurs.

OOC:

23:09, Today: Wraith Zephyr rolled 8 using 1d20+2. Wratih PER ROLL.
This message was last edited by the player at 23:10, Mon 11 July 2011.

It is J'landria who first sees the batranc swooping towards the windship.  Its flight is graceful, yet deadly, arrowing in, though Aeletheros and Wraith spot it soon after.

It is still over five hundred yards off, but clearly making for the windship.

Round 1

The batranc closes the distance to some five or six hundred yards.

It looks like it will be making about a hundred yards per round, closing on the windship.

In reply to GM (msg #215):

"It looks someone wishes to climb aboard," says Wraith, unsheathing his sword and waiting for the beast to close the gap.

In reply to Wraith Zephyr (msg #216):

"Get the nest things! This is a way to dispose of them," she calls while wrapping a rope around the one she plucked down.  Her intention is to use them as weights to the rope like a bolo.

Wraith sheathes his sword and begins to climb the rigging, intent upon retrieving the other nest.

Aeletheros keeps the ship flying straight but also keeps an eye on the batranc. He knows it is still some distance away and far out of the range of his magic but he bides his time.

OOC: When the batranc gets within 100 feet of the ship Aeletheros will secure the wheel and begin casting.

Round 2

The batranc closes another 100 yards (now between four and five hundred yards away).


OoC:  Kind of slow going here, but a lot of players are away or slow posting right now, so I'm going to keep it slow/round by round, probably one round/day.

In reply to GM (msg #220):

Mirna shakes herself out of her reverie at the sound of alarm above. Grabbing her longbow & longsword, she rushes to the deck.

Wraith continues to climb towards the remaining nest.  He keeps one eye on the Batranc, which is gaining on the Fate and will be upon them soon enough.

OOC:

20:35, Today: Wraith Zephyr rolled 26 using 1d20+8. Climb.
This message was last edited by the player at 03:36, Mon 18 July 2011.

Round 3

Wraith scrambles down to the underside of the windship through the rigging, heading for the other nest.

The batranc closes to under four hundred yards away.

In reply to GM (msg #223):

"No killing please," calls J'landria. "It needs to take these nest-things away."

She continues to get her makeshift bolo ready.

Round 4

The batranc soars in, closing to three hundred yards.

Wraith reaches the nest in the lower rigging, and deftly scoops it out.

In reply to GM (msg #225):

Wraith tucks the nest in the crook of his arm and begins to climb upwards.

Round 5

The batranc closes another hundred yards, to about two hundred yards distant.

Wraith scrambles back through the rigging, making good time and almost reaching back to the deck.

In reply to GM (msg #227):

Mirna readies her longbow, ready to take a shot at the Batranc as soon as it is in range.

Round 6

The batranc lets out a hissing shreik, and banks.  No longer heading directly for the windship, the arc of its approach will bring it behind and below the windship by about 120 yards.


OoC:  PER rolls, please...

In reply to GM (msg #229):

((OOC: 20:24, Today: Mirna rolled 17 using 1d20. Per. ))

Aeletheros secures the wheel and goes to see why the batranc suddenly changed its course.

OOC: 23:30, Today: Aeletheros rolled 21 using 1d20+6. PER roll.

In reply to Aeletheros (msg #231):

Wraith continues to scuttle upon the rigging, but peers upward when he hears the Batranc's screech.

OOC:


Today: Wraith Zephyr rolled 11 using 1d20+2. PER Roll.
This message was last edited by the player at 12:24, Thu 28 July 2011.

Aalistair, his prayers complete, comes up on deck. "Dreams and visions aside, are we in danger?"

Round 7

As the batranc banks away, crewmembers spot another large, dark avian following behind it.  It does not seem quite as fast as the sleek batranc, but of a larger, more solid build.

She squints and stares at the bulky shape, trying to discern what it is.

In reply to GM (msg #234):

Mirna shifts her target to the new avian.

Round 8

The batranc wheels off, passing some 120 yards off the stern of the windship.

The airborne newcomer continues after the batranc, it now also perhaps two hundred yards or more away from the Wind of Fate.  While it appears fast and agile in the air as well, it quickly becomes apparent that the batranc is faster yet.

Seeing the crew somewhat alert, Aalistair peers off into the darkness.

"I do not... I do not know what that purple thing is," J'landria says, her tone is a bit nervous and a bit vexed.  "Does anyone know if that is natural or magical in nature?  It could be something summoned by our touching the nest things."

She shifts the bolo in her hands and gets it whirling, ready to let it loose when something is close enough to catch.

Round 9

The batranc continues on its way, increasing distance from both the windship and its pursuer.

The newly arrived avian lets out something between a roar and a hiss, clearly frustrated at being left behind by the batranc, and angles for the windship.  It closes to some 150 yards distance.

The Marukans crewmen on deck scurry and take cover behind masts, rigging, anything they can find.  The Arimites Hakim and Nohren draw their knives and stand ready.


OoC:  It will arrive and be able to attack at the end of round 11.  To clarify, it is daytime.  Not everyone is on deck, due to the poor sleep the night before, but anyone who wants to be can be up on deck.  For convenience sake, PCs who haven't been posting are below deck sleeping...

Wraith climbs over the rigging and springs to the deck.  He hands the nest to J'landria.  When he sees the newcomer flying towards the ship he gapes and says, "What have we here?"

In reply to Wraith Zephyr (msg #241):

"Moving target practice, Wraith. How's your aim?" Mirna says with a smile, her aim staying on the avian, but her gaze taking in both the avian & the batranc, as much as possible.

In reply to Mirna (msg #242):

Wraith responds with a vulpine smile. "Not as good as yours, I'm afraid.  You'll have to show me a few pointers once the currents smooth out a bit."

Round 10

The batranc now begins to recede into the distance, some two hundred yards off the stern/port side.

The unidentified avian rushes towards the windship, closing the distance to about two hundred feet.


OoC:  If any want to try to identify the new avian, and have any skill they might think appropriate (or close, even), feel free to make a roll.

At this point, it should be in range of some of the longer range weapons (bows, for example).

In reply to GM (msg #244):

Mirna takes a moment to rack her brain over what the bird might be.

((OOC: 09:17, Today: Mirna rolled 16 using 1d20. Int check to identify Avian. Also, just in case I'm slow when the next round is posted, Mirna will take a shot unless someone gives her a good reason not to))

Round 11

The batranc continues to retreat, over two hundred yards off the stern of the Wind of Fate. 

The attacker comes on, appears to focus on the pair of Arimites, and rushes towards them with a screech.


OoC:  Once everyone has posted their actions, I'll put out a post for the results of the round. 

Aeletheros sees the beast near and calls out an incantation in sonorous and sussurant tones. A moment later a curved shaft of lightning appears in his hands, with a sliver of lightning drawn back on a ghostly string. He lets the "string" go and the sliver of lightning leaps towards the approaching beast. He shakes his head slightly as he notices the bow is not as bright and steady as it normally is but makes the best of it.

OOC: 09:55, Today: Aeletheros rolled 7 using 1d20+2. Storm bow at level 5. (Partial success, 3 damage per bolt)
09:56, Today: Aeletheros rolled 14 using 1d20+6. Stormbow attack (Don't know mods for the creature, 3 damage if a full success or 2 if a partial <I assume we round up in favor for damage>).

"I like your style," says Wraith, watching Aeletheros unleash his bolt of lightening.  "You'll have to show me that one."  The airman curls his fingers and utters a incantation in a low register.  The words, spoken in Archaen, roil with menace and imprecations.  As he finishes, blue, thorny lightening strangles his hands.

OOC:

Today: Wraith Zephyr rolled 17 using 1d20+7. Balor's Bolt.  7 point of damage. This should only be 10, actually.  I forgot to account for the spell difficulty.

Wraith hurls a ring of jagged lightening at the winged beast and hopes that it will dispatch their foe.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:48, Thu 04 Aug 2011.

J'landria's hair stands up all over as the spells are cast and she throws the casters an anxious glance as she moves a bit farther away from them.  She stares keenly at the Avir, trying desperately to identify it.  The makeshift nest-bolo spins in her hand as she waits for the beastie to be close enough to try and ensnare the creature.  Her free hand rests on her bow, waiting for the chance to use it.

In reply to GM (msg #246):

((If the critter is in range, Mirna will take her shot. Otherwise, she'll wait until she's as guaranteed a hit as possible.)

Round 11 -- Results

Aeletheros fires his lightning bow, the electric arrow lashing out and dancing over the side of the attacker as it rolls to avoid the attack.

Wraith then unleashes a flash of lightning that arcs out, dancing over the attacker's chitinous form, raising smoke and a shriek of rage from the creature.

It swoops in closer yet, hurtling like a bolt from a siege engine right for the two Arimites, when Mirna's arrow strikes it upon the shoulder, where the arm and wing come together.  The arrow strikes deep, eliciting another shriek of pain from the creature.  It spasms, flutters, and quickly loses speed and altitude, dropping, below the height of the 'ship's rail, and thudding heavily into the side of the windship.

It pinions its taloned hands and feet, and one good wing flapping, drops away down the side of the windship.

"Impressive.  Most impressive," says Wraith, leaning against the rail and watching the charred thing slide down the side of the vessel."  He nods to Mirna.  "You're a deadly shot.  Thanks for bringing that thing down."  He peers over the starboard side to see if the thing was snagged in the rigging, by chance.   Seeing that the carcass plummeted downward, he shrugs his shoulders.  "Any idea what the hell that thing was, or why it targeted the Arimites?"

Round 12

Peering over the side, Wraith manages to glimpse the creature after it thuds into the side of the deck.  Loud, scrabbling noises ensue, and it hangs precariously from the side of the windship, its long, sharp talons hooked into the wood.

The Aamanian rushes to the side next to Wraith and peers over the side as well.

"Is it really safe to have that thing hanging there? Won't we... I don't know... capsize? Flip over? Sink?"

In reply to GM (msg #253):

"Resilient critter," says Wraith, disturbed by the sight of the thing clawing the side of the ship.  "What in all the realms of shadow is it?"

Round 13

As Wraith and Aalistair watch, the thing totters, scrabbles some more, looking like it is about to plummet from the side of the 'ship.  One wing hangs limp, the other flaps occasionally, helping to steady it.

It hooks its claws again, more firmly, into the side of the windship, taking a better hold.

J'landria walks over to look down upon the thing, to get a more careful look at it.  She takes a deep sniff to see if she can identify its smell as well.  She lets the bolo slow some and shakes her head.  She holds it out, and tries to let it fall onto the creature that is clinging to the ship.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:12, Wed 17 Aug 2011.

In reply to GM (msg #256):

Mirna takes another shot.

((07:26, Today: Mirna rolled 18 using 1d20+9. Shooting NastyBad Avian, +9 longbow. ))

While the others look over the edge at the strange creature, Aalistair moves to the back of the Fate to look out at what else might be behind them.



Aalistair rolled 15 using 1d20+2. PER roll.

Aeletheros works to secure himself to a mast or some rigging so he can lean over the side and take a bead on the beast while his stormbow still remains.

OOC: 15:30, Today: Aeletheros rolled 9 using 1d20+7. Pilot roll to secure self to ship.

Round 14

At first clinging to the side of the windship, the monster wrenches its glittering talons from the wood, reaching up, and with each powerful swipe, the claws bite into the hull with a clank almost like iron on wood, drawing itself inexorably up the side.

Aeletheros anchors himself in the rigging, taking aim at the creature. 

Mirna leans out over the rail with her longbow; it is a difficult shot, and though at close range, the angle is awkward; her skill is evident, however, as her arrow bites through the chitin of the beast, eliciting an angry hiss, and just possibly, it begins to climb more quickly.

J'landria, in the midst of this, quietly and deftly drops her makeshift bola over the side, where it tangles on the spiked hide of the creature.

Mirna steps back from the gunwale, and readies her longsword. She'll swing as it's coming over the gunwale and onto the deck.

((OOC: This is assuming the critter is moving fast and will get to us fairly quickly. Otherwise, she'll stand where she is and ready her longsword, her intent will be to hit it when it's in range.))

Wraith mutters a sinister imprecation and whips a thorny arc of lightning at the beast.  Perhaps he wished to impress Aeletheros, or he was distracted by Mirna, but lash twisted out of his control and arched in an unanticipated direction.

OOC:

Today: Wraith Zephyr rolled 4 using 1d20-3. Wraith Balor's Bolts Spell.
This message was last edited by the player at 15:51, Tue 23 Aug 2011.

"I think this might be a wind demon," J'landria says with a slight frown.  She pulls her bow out and draws it, aiming at the creature.
This message was last edited by the player at 00:19, Fri 26 Aug 2011.

Having secured himself to the rigging Aeletheros again draws back the "string" on his Stormbow and sends another bolt of lightning sizzling into the creature currently pulling its way up the hull.

OOC: 20:21, Today: Aeletheros rolled 24 using 1d20+6. Stormbow vs. creature. (So that would be 3 points of electrical damage unless that actually ended up being a critical success because it is climbing and possibly can't defend as well)

Aalistair, still standing by the back of the craft, begins to quietly pray.

"Saint Aaharion, intercede with another faithful follower of the Almighty. Place your beneficent touch upon my brow and in so doing shield me from the slings and arrows of misfortune."

---

Casting Saint Aaharion's Beneficent Touch; Aalistair rolled 16 using 1d20-1. Casting Beneficent Touch (Alter). PR +3 for 10 rounds.

Round 15

Mirna steps back, puts up her bow, and sweeps out the blue-black Osmaran blade, ready to meet the beast as it clambers towards the deck.

As Wraith's spell dies before it is fully formed,  Aeletheros looses his bolt, finding a weak point in the chitin armor, and eliciting a his of pain and anger.

Aalistair's deep voice intones his prayer, and he is surrounded by a soft white light.

J'landria sweeps out her bow, knocks an arrow and lets it fly in one deft motion at the onrushing monster.  It flies true, biting into the chitin, but the beast scarcely seems to notice.

With a final lunge, it doesn't so much climb up as vault itself bodily over the rail and onto the upper deck.  Roaring with rage, it immediately begins to lay about with great slashing sweeps of its claws and its great spiked tail.

OoC:  It spent the round finishing its climb, and will be able to attack on the next round.
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:03, Fri 26 Aug 2011.

"I think I was correct in my... assessment," she says while shifting her position on the deck.  "I have nothing... that can harm it, I will try and... distract it and keep it watching me."

She hooks her bow back and steps up toward it, making an easy target.

As the creature appears upon the deck, Aalistair raises his staff high and shouts out loudly, "Begone, foul beast. In the name of Aa the Almighty, I cast thee forth!"

---

Casting Lance of Light, Aalistair rolled 11 using 1d20-3. Cast: Lance of Light, Attack, 2nd spell. DR 10.

In reply to GM (msg #267):

Mirna will swing as soon as it's in range. Preferably aiming for a spot that's been injured already, if it's available, otherwise, just hit the thing.

((OOC: I imagine this is more useful for next round: 09:04, Today: Mirna rolled 22 using 1d20+9. Attack Wind Demon with longsword.))

In reply to Mirna (msg #270):

Wraith springs back.  As he does so, a shrill, feathery incantation escapes his throat.  Moments later, a tenril of lightening flicks from his hand like the tail of cat and he whips it at the demon.

OOC:

15:35, Today: Wraith Zephyr rolled 18 using 1d20+7. Phaedran's Lash.  (Total comes to 11 [18-7]).
This message was last edited by the player at 17:01, Sat 27 Aug 2011.

Round 16

The monster lands upon the deck, its left wing still limp, but otherwise strong, slashing with its great claws.  J'landria still stands frightfully near, bow put up, and balancing on her toes in anticipation.  As its great taloned hand whips out, she defects it ever so slightly while spinning away. 

Wraith's spell takes effect, lashing the beast with lightning, its hide smoking and the smell of scorched flesh.

Simultaneously, a brilliant white light spears out from Aalistair, punching right through its hide and driving it back a step, howling with pain.

Mirna steps forward then, slashing with her blade and ducking under a swing of its other claw.  She connects solidly, and a great splash of ichor bursts from its hide from the keen edged blade.

Shrieking in pain and frustration, the creature is driven back by the flurry of blows, staggers, and then plummets over the side of windship.

J'landria moves to the edge, carefully looking over the edge.

In reply to GM (msg #272):

Mirna hurries to the side to make sure the critter is falling, or help it get that way if it isn't.

With his Stormbow moments from fading out Aeletheros likewise looks over the edge, several incantations already in mind in case the beast is still alive.

As several of the crew peer over the side, the form of the creature can be seen dropping down below.  It rapidly plummets past the lower rigging of the windship, but below that one of its wings fans out.  At first it spins uncontrollably, but then begins to descend in a more controlled manner.

In reply to GM (msg #276):

Mirna scrambles for her bow to take a shot before the creature is out of range.

Seeing the beast still just within the range of his stormbow, Aeletheros draws back the "string" once more and sends another shaft of lightning hurtling after the descending creature. Right after the lightning leaps from the bow it winks out in a shower of sparks.

OOC: 12:13, Today: Aeletheros rolled 20 using 1d20+6. Stormbow vs. creature. (I believe this is the 5th round so the spell is done after the shot; also 3 electrical damage if successful)

Standing near the wheel, waiting for orders, Aalistair asks, "Is there anyway we can increase our speed and get out of here before that thing comes back?"

Wraith turns to the pilgrim and says.  "Good idea."  He turns to Aeletheros and says, "If don't mind, grab the wheel.  I know a spell that can get us moving."

As the creature falls, lightning from Aeletheros' storm bow leaps out, the bolt catching it solidly in the side and striking home.  It continues to fall as Mirna rushes to the side and follows with a well placed shot from her longbow.  The beast then continues to drop rapidly below and behind the windship, its wings occasionally flapping out and tipping it this way or that.

With its departure, suddenly all is quiet on the deck of the Wind of Fate once more.
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:49, Mon 05 Sept 2011.

"Now that none of us are dying, can anyone tell me what just happened? And where we currently are for that matter?"

Though his questions are delivered with a harsh tone, there is a faint smile upon the Aamanian's face as he stands at the rear of the ship.

J'landria shrugs, still watching the creature fade into the distance.

Taking a deep breath to compose himself once the creature vanishes Aeletheros unlashes himself from the rigging and consults the skies and compass. Doing some quick calculations in his head based on current heading and velocity he answers Aalistair's question; "We are approximately one day still from Maruk. As to what that beast was I have no idea. It must be something to fear as it is not simple to scare off a batranc that is intent on its prey. Hopefully it will bother us no more. Do any of you know what it was?"

Aalistair nods at first, then shakes his head. "No idea what that thing was, but Aa's holy light seemed to have some effect upon it, so I gather that it wasn't natural nor did it mean us any good."

He lifts his eyes to the horizon. "Well, it is a new day, so I guess we'd best be about our duties. Is there anything that needs accomplishing?"

In reply to Aalistair (msg #285):

Mirna watches the demon disappear into the distance. "It was a wind demon. Nasty critters, I hope this one doesn't come back."

"I've heard of them, but, truth be told, throughout all my years of traversing the skies, I've never come across one before today."  Wraith peers over the side of the vessel and spits.  "Nasty brute," he says, crinkling his brow.  "I hope we've seen that last of it."

Wraith's spell gives the Wind of Fate enough extra speed to get it moving again, and the wind demon drops behind and below, finally unseen in the distance.

It is otherwise slow going for the remainder of the day, and by nightfall the windship remains far out in the Wilderlands, still out of sight of Maruk, though the timeworn mountains sharing the city's name can be seen in the distance.

The night passes more calmly than the one before, with the winds rising as morning nears, promising better speed the following day.

Dawn is a bleak smudge on the eastern horizon, as a late fall storm builds over the barrens.

The wind drives the windship on, until the city is in sight in the distance, as the sky darkens with the oncoming storm.

"I don't like the looks of those clouds. Storms out here in the wilderlands are often a test sent by Aa."

In reply to GM (msg #288):

Obviously jumpy from the earlier attack, Mirna spends most of her time prowling the deck and watching the skies, longsword at her side and bow in hand.

The day's new, stronger winds are not enough to bring the Wind of Fate to Maruk before the storm strikes.

Some leagues off, the city is visible when the winds increase and the clouds open up to deluge the 'ship in a torrent of wind and water.  The storm spins the windship, dashing it this way and that as though it were a toy.


OoC:  Piloting and/or air sailor skill rolls (at -5), please, along with any particular actions your characters might be taking.

Accustomed to such storms Aeletheros relishes the sensations of the wind and rain. Knowing however that his companions may not feel the same way and that the ship likely will not fare well in this storm he secures himself to the deck by the wheel. He then concerns himself with steering the craft as best he can to not be sailing directly into the wind but at the most perpendicular to it. He shouts out commands to the crew to raise this sail, lower that sail, tighten the trim, and other adjustments as needed. He asks those who don't need to be up on deck to get below and out of the weather so there is less concern about people being swept off the deck by the wind.

OOC: 11:16, Today: Aeletheros rolled 12 using 1d20+2. Piloting roll during storm. (Roll made taking into account the -5 modifier)

In reply to Aeletheros (msg #292):

Mirna scowls and starts to argue with Aeletheros, but slips a little as she is buffeted by a particularly vicious gust of wind. She goes below, but stays close to the ladder, with weapons to hand, and listens for any alarm.

Aalistair, his hat stowed below decks with his gear, grips the railings and lines of the Fate, moving amongst the crew to lend a hand where he can or an encouraging word where he feels he cannot.

Aalistair rolled 16 using 1d20-4. Conveyance (windship), in a storm.

In reply to Aalistair (msg #294):

Wraith, lashed about by the storm, attempts to assist in the conveyance of the vessel, while maintaining his spell.  His encouraging shouts are, however, smothered by wind and thunder.

OOC:

11:09, Today: Wraith Zephyr rolled 11 using 1d20+8. Piloting during storm.

The storm buffets and thrashes the windship like a drac with a wounded avir locked in its jaws.

Aeletheros' Phantasian training shines through, guiding the Fate masterfully as it is thrown to and fro, though its way is hampered by the inexperienced crew.  Two of the Marukans are badly injured, bones broken as they are thrown about the deck during the storm, and a third is nearly thrown overboard as the 'ship lurches in a gust of wind, though a moment before he plummets Aalistair's iron grip clamps upon him, drawing him back to safety.

Wraith darts here and there, shoring up the crew and reinforcing Aeletheros calls to the crew, holding them from panic.

Though it seems to last for hours, it is only perhaps a half hour later that the Wind of Fate pulls clear of the storm, water still sluicing from the deck.

The windship escapes with no major damage, but repairs will definitely be advisable.

Perhaps and hour or two's travel, and the windship draws nigh to the city of Maruk, its towers and walls cracked and in ill repair, but standing sturdily nonetheless.  Atop one of these towers is a shoddy looking windship dock, with a dispirited looking Marukan standing upon it, greeting the newcomers with a weary looking wave.

Aalistair murmurs a prayer of thanks to Aa for their safe passage through the storm, though the sturdiness of the docks ahead start him soon praying again.


"This. This was my idea, wasn't it? Surely I am being tested."

Aeletheros steers the windship towards the docks. He eyes them skeptically, hoping their shoddy nature belies a hidden sturdiness. He thinks about the repairs that will need to be done and hopes the materials necessary to do so are either already on board or simple enough to purchase.

Wraith continues move about the deck as Aeletheros pilots the vessel.  He too is concerned about the ship's condition, and hopes that repairs will be undertaken at their current port-of-call.

J'landira looks at the ground.  Being so far away from the ground, and being unable to track or be even the slightest bit useful have her a bit on edge.  She helps when she can, but if it's not her tail getting in the way, it's her lack of understanding.  When she's not feeling ill at ease due to the magics that make the windship fly, she's concerned for the well being of those who she's become close to, here and back home.

Her mood has turn sullen, and when she's not working to help the ship move, or watching the ground, she's sulking.

In reply to J'landria (msg #300):

Mirna checks that all of her weapons and armor are in good repair, occasionally glancing up as they approach the dock. As they get closer she begins to study the dock and it's environs, watching for anything that could be a problem.

Aeletheros edges the windship carefully up to the shoddy looking dock.  Upon docking, it is found that while it sways somewhat alarmingly, it is sturdy enough and not ready -- not yet -- to come crashing down.

Zosha steps forward and meets the downcast tower warden, exchanging words with him.  She then steps back to the crew.

"Captain Zephyr, if you would, this is home for many of our crew, and I'm sure you would like to plan repairs, so long as a few will remain on board, even in shifts if necessary?"  She turns to the tall, bronzed Danuvian, "Mirna, you will see to security?"

Down below, in the streets, many of the dispirited natives can be seen going about their business.

Aeletheros looks over at Zosha and makes his way over to her; "I will stay behind. I need to take careful inventory of the entire ship to see what needs to be repaired and what materials will be needed. Once I have determined that who would I seek for the materials?"

In reply to Aeletheros (msg #303):

"Get me a list and I'll see what can be done. Aa provides," Aalistair says somberly. "If you'll all excuse me, I need to go pray."

The slight Marukan nods to Aeletheros and Aalistair, "If you have a list, perhaps Rammid or I could point you to local merchants or tradesmen, depending upon our needs." 

Rammid places a hand firmly on his fellow Marukan's shoulder and says, "I can't say that i have missed Maruk all that much since we left. In a way it will be good to walk the streets again if only as a reminder of the life we left behind."

He looks to the others going to leave the ship and says in agreement with Rioniv, "Yes, I would be happy to play guide."

In reply to GM (msg #302):

Mirna nods curtly to Zosha, and returns to prowling the deck, looking for any possible access points other than the obvious dock.


She'll make it a point to figure out where anyone can get on board, keep an eye on those locations, and once repair people come in she'll be watching them, too. Not suspicious so much as taking her job VERY seriously.

Seeing so many of his companions wandering down into the city proper Aeletheros shrugs then falls to the task of inspecting the ship to see what needs to be repaired. He lays out his notebook, quill pen, and ink to detail what exactly will be needed to make the repairs so he can give it to whomever remains that would be in charge of that.

In reply to Aeletheros (msg #308):

Noticing the chaos below, Mirna stops her patrol and peers down at the crowd. Almost distractedly, she says, "Aeletheros, we may have some excitement."

When Aalistair begins to glow and the Kang run off, she laughs and claps Aeletheros on the shoulder. "Well, the pilgrim is better in a pinch than I'd expected!"

She returns to her patrol.

Nothing out of the ordinary appears down below, as your fellow crewmen make their way and disappear into the maze of the city streets.

Before they return, however, the Kang can be seen outside the customs tower (which holds the windship dock).

Wraith returns to the fate and says to Mirna and Aeletheros.  "Forgive me for disappearing like that.  I was a bit concerned for the pilgrim's safety, but after seeing how he handled those Kang, I realized that my time will be best spent on the deck of this ship."  The airman looks for Zosha and says, "I am happy to assist you however you wish."

In reply to GM (msg #310):

Mirna keeps a wary eye on the Kang ((OOC: ok, when is she NOT keeping a wary eye on someone??))

Noticing the Kang below and hearing Wraith's words, Aeletheros takes a moment away from his inspections and taps Wraith on the shoulder, pointing down below; "Did you say Kang? Well, I don't know if those are the same Kang but I suggest you take a look down there. Is there anything more we on the ship should know about what went on? I don't know lots about the Kang, but I do recall they don't take being 'handled' well."

"Well, I suspect that they were some sort of press gang looking to spirit away a few stupid mercenaries."  Wraith peers down at the Kang.  "Aalistair protested when he saw them mistreat a street side peddler."  Wraith shakes his head.  "It is fortunate that I disembarked.  I thought that I might find Nas Nasri somewhere around the docks.  He mentioned that he might be traveling to these parts.  "I thought better of accompanying Aelistair and Rammid into the bowels of the city.  I would've been too obtrusive.  We may have a problem when if the hang are present when they return from their shopping spree."

In reply to Wraith Zephyr (msg #314):

"Shall we head down, stretch our legs some?" Mirna loosens her longsword in it's scabbard.

In reply to Mirna (msg #315):

Wraith says,"Perhaps we should be a circumspect, Mirna.  I suggest that we keep an eye on them and react only if they trouble Aalistair and Rammid when they return."

Several of the Marukan crewmen approach Wraith and Mirna, one standing before the others.  Hesitantly, he steps forward, and speaks uncertainly, "Uh, Captain Zephyr, Commander Mirna, uh, some of the, uh, crew, were wondering, uh, hoping, uh, well, we thought, that, well, us being here and all, uh, we, uh, might visit with our families?  Um, that is, if, well, there was time, uh, a time when we were not all needed at our posts?" 

In reply to GM (msg #317):

"Absolutely," says Wraith, smiling.  "Go.  If you could return by this time tomorrow, I would greatly appreciate it.  Also, if you have able bodied relatives who are looking for work, we might have need for additional crew."


Wraith turns to Aeletheros and says, "Although this may not be the most opportune time, I would love to peruse some of the spells that you've learned.  I am more than willing to share with you my meager repertoire, if you're interested."
This message was last edited by the player at 17:09, Sat 08 Oct 2011.

Aeletheros grins widely; "Ah yes, the sharing of trade secrets. You also conjure of the element of air I take it? I would be open to sharing knowledge to increase both of our abilities. However, that would probably best be done later as it would be prudent to keep an eye on the Kang when our companions return."

In reply to Aeletheros (msg #319):

"Agreed," says Wraith, smiling.  He peers at the Kang again and his smile evaporates.  "I don't like them one bit."  A shudder passes through him as takes full measure of their size and ferocity.  "They're not the brightest lot, but they're as capable as Thrall, and even less inclined to endure insult.  Our pilgrim scattered them impressively; they won't be sated until he's dead, if fear."

Wraith turns to Mina and says, "After thinking about it, perhaps it might be better if we preempt them in some manner.  I am not suggesting that we provoke a fight with them, necessarily.  Perhaps we can distract them in some manner."

As Wraith speaks, looking back, the Kang have begun to move.  The Marukan crewmembers look at them apprehensively as they move past.  The Kang do indeed stop them, and it appears words are exchanged, and a few glances and gestures up at the windship, but then allow them to go on their way, unmolested.

Four of the Kang then enter the customs tower, while the fifth mounts the stairs secured to the outside of the tower, moving up towards the parapet and the windship docks.
This message was last edited by the GM at 20:11, Mon 10 Oct 2011.

In reply to Wraith Zephyr (msg #320):

"Distract? What did you have in mind?"

"We might have time for subterfuge at this point," Wraith's hand wraps around the hilt of his blade.  "They appear to be spreading out.  I fear that we may have no recourse."  He looks over at Aeletheros and says, "If they try to board the vessel, we may have to raise anchor and prevent them from commandeering the ship."

Looking over the edge of the windship then back at his companions Aeletheros has a worried expression on his face; "That would be logical, how quickly can we cast off if push comes to shove? I have no desire to fight the Kang, especially over something so trivial, but they do have a strange sense of honor. I do stand ready to defend the ship and you all if need be however. Let us hope it does not come to that."

Aeletheros's brow furrows in concentration as he tries to remember what sorts of things OTHER than combat can be used to assuage a Kang's ire...

"They certainly respect martial prowess," Wraith turns to Mirna.  "Your presence will hopefully assuage their anger.  I think that we should prepare ourselves for the worst, but hope that we can deal with this without having to set sail or fight.  Let's see what they do, or, better yet, what they have to say."

While the discussion continues, you see the Kang complete his climb to the top of the stairs, and he advances to the dock of the windship. 

The dock sways under the warrior in his heavy armor, but as before, it is more sturdy than it seems.  Before reaching the windship, his eyes sweep those on deck, and he calls out, "Permission to come aboard?  I have business we might discuss."

In reply to GM (msg #326):

Mirna jostles Wraith as she steps forward, casting a not terribly subtle glance at the tower. With her hand near - but not touching - the hilt of her sword she says, "You may come aboard. Alone. What business do you have?"
This message was last edited by the player at 15:18, Wed 12 Oct 2011.

The Kang flashes sharp white teething in a snarling grin, observing Mirna's martial stance, and strides down the dock and onto the windship.

"The Crimson Horde has need of soldiers, and is paying in gold.  Speed is of the essence as well.  If your vessel," he glances around at the deck and rigging of the windship, "is for hire, either as transport or warship, there might be much profit in it for you."
This message was last edited by the GM at 18:17, Wed 12 Oct 2011.

In reply to GM (msg #328):

Mirna relaxes, slightly. "What's your offer? Anything specific or just 'much profit'?"

The Kang shifts, looking somewhat uncomfortable, studies the windship briefly.  "I am here to hire mercenaries.  I am no Ispasian for haggling.  We will pay four hundred gold lumens for transportation back to the Kang Empire.  Much more might be negotiated once there." 

In reply to GM (msg #330):

((OOC: Where is Zosha?))

"As you've seen, there are a number of us here. I cannot make decisions for the entire group. We will discuss this matter further. How can I contact you with our answer?"

((OOC: As the group returns, Mirna will let everyone know we need to discuss the Kang offer. If someone is willing to round up the group, so much the better, but Mirna will not leave the 'ship.))