RolePlay onLine RPoL Logo

, welcome to Worldwalker

18:25, 7th May 2024 (GMT+0)

Oak Overwhelmed.

Posted by PlaytesterFor group 0
Playtester
GM, 6443 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Fri 10 Oct 2008
at 14:25
  • msg #1

Oak Overwhelmed

Your body suddenly shifts back to material in accordance to emergency protocols as the nanites receive thousands of sums that don't add up. The world wavers around you, and you can feel yourself tearing apart, but then not so much.

You're laying on wooden tongue and groove flooring, scrubbed very clean, and highly polished. It seems to be moving, and you hear snapcracks like whips above you.

A clatter of padding of feet and ...

"What is it?"
"I know no kind so hairless and ugly." The other voice replies.

PT
Oak
GM, 1402 posts
Fri 10 Oct 2008
at 15:09
  • msg #2

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

:: Ring.  Mental communication only.  Are you online?  Is CU2 online?  If so, inform CU2 not to use any audiovisual output, but to relay I/O through your mental interface to me.  Scan for any electronic communications.  Begin recording.  Analyze and summarize when ready. ::

I attempt to take a quick clairvoyant sneak peek of my immediate surroundings, in case there is anything I need to be aware of before showing signs of consciousness.

:: Dearest LORD, please guide and guard me now, I pray... ::

If I'm successful with clairvoyance, I attempt to read the mind of the second speaker.  If not, I wait until I open my eyes to look at them, and then attempt the telepathic contact.

Then I stir, and without making any threatening moves, slowly and gently turn and sit to look at the speakers.

" 'Peace be unto you.'  My name is John Oakmaster, a traveler from afar, and I am lost.  Would you please tell me where we are now?"
Playtester
GM, 6454 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Mon 13 Oct 2008
at 16:19
  • msg #3

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

No answer comes back to you from your ring or CU2.

You're on the deck of a sailing ship, peopled by a half-dozen different humanoid animals.  The sky is filled with translucent streamers of pastel gasses.

The ship is flying through that sky with fans pushing it by blowing into the sails.

A reptilian man with tail and flicking tongue is standing next to you. He's talking to a cat man who is standing on the other side of you.

You read the cat man's mind....

*Smells funny/strange. Reminds me of something. Where'd he come from, we're in flight?*

The reptile man blinks.

"It speaks." He flicks out his tongue, and back again in a nervous gesture. "You're on board the Mary Piper, subsidised Trade Federation airboat. We're in the Sardic Expanse. And now, laddie, just how did you get here? Because we're a long way away from any island."

+@1 to Read Surface Thoughts due to new use (reading a humanoid brain rather than a human brain.)

PT
Oak
GM, 1404 posts
Mon 13 Oct 2008
at 16:39
  • msg #4

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

OOC: Did clairvoyance work?  Or did I only see them after opening my eyes?

BTW, what species are the others of the half dozen crew members?

I blink in surprise as I take in my surroundings, and my interviewers.

"I was lost and stranded in another universe, alone, very far indeed from here.  But I was able to open a portal to elsewhere.  I did not know where it would lead me, but I hoped I would end up in safe hands again.  And so I stepped through... and the LORD God Almighty brought me here."

"I have never encountered anyone quite like you before.  Indeed, I know nothing of your world.  Would you please tell me a bit more about it?  And do you have any maps I might be able to look at?"

I continue monitoring the cat man's thoughts as we converse.  I listen quietly to their descriptions and answer any questions they may have, with my eyes occasionally looking around this curious ship, and the curious sky it sails through, manned by this curious looking crew.

"So we are on an airboat, sailing from island to island, from some type of Trade Federation?  And you are traders?"

"I apologize for boarding without permission, but I do not currently have any means of leaving, unless you throw me overboard, which I might find rather unpleasant.  May I request permission to stay, at least until we dock somewhere?  I have some humble bits of useful knowledge and skills, and I am willing to learn others as needed, and to pitch in and pull my weight... if you will have me."
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:36, Mon 13 Oct 2008.
Playtester
GM, 6467 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Tue 14 Oct 2008
at 21:41
  • msg #5

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

OOC: Clairvoyance worked. You recognize a Panda, a reptilian humanoid, a felinoid, a bird with a ten foot wingspan. There are several others you're not sure of in the two second glance you accord to this.

"He talks a lot." The reptilan flicks out his tongue. "What this God he's talking about?"

"I'll take him to Balsom." The catman says as he thinks. *Curious. He speaks many words I don't understand, but with authority. May Athena guide me this day.* "Your requests for information will have to wait for the captain's determination." *If Balsom doesn't have him stranded on some dead rock.*

He gestures for you to precede him as you make your case.

"I will put in a good word for you. And yes, we are Traders." He knocks on a door, and a giant panda opens it. The panda has a katana belted to his waist.

"Guardchieftain, me and Dox found this one on the forward deck. He claims to be lost or something. He wants to help out in exchange for passage. Seems like an okay bloke to me."

The panda nods with his eyes heavy lidded.

"Thank you, Morco."

Its clearly a dismissal, and Morco the Catman leaves.

"Please." The panda says gravely, and points to a chair along the wall next to his desk in the darkened cabin.
Oak
GM, 1405 posts
Tue 14 Oct 2008
at 21:50
  • msg #6

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I stretch out my telepathic senses to the Captain, attempting to read his thoughts.

"Yes, sir.  Thank you."

I quietly take the offered chair, and return his gaze with an open, honest, respectful expression...
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:51, Tue 14 Oct 2008.
Playtester
GM, 6483 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Wed 15 Oct 2008
at 17:19
  • msg #7

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

He quirks a grin.

"I am the Guardchieftain Balsom. I'm in charge of the marines and of the punishment detail. The Captain is sleeping and the First Mate has the wheelwatch. So..."

He pauses, and then verbally pounces.

"Whats your name? Where are you from? Who sent you? What do you know of the Tiger Cult? Do you have any plans to rob or murder us? What can you do that would be helpful? What mental gifts do you have?"

He nods and you realize you haven't read a single thought of his. Nor does he give you time to respond.

"Some people might find it rude to read a furries thoughts, but not me. I like to read people's minds."

He grins with his fangs showing.

He pauses.

"Unless the Captain, who as far as you're concerned is the right hand of the Most Puissant Lady Herself, overrules me, you have a place aboard the Mary Piper.
The seers help us in navigation, and I can always use a deckhand. I didn't check if you can cook, or help the chirurgeon."

PT
Oak
GM, 1406 posts
Wed 15 Oct 2008
at 19:01
  • msg #8

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I blink, and then good-naturedly grin back.

"Thank you, sir.  Since you are able to read whatever information is desired from my mind, I know you can verify my good intentions.  Indeed, I didn't intend to be rude, but simply to try to gather enough information to inadvertently avoid being rude, as I know nothing of your ways."

"I perceive that you have skills that I currently lack, and that you are able to discern what skills I have that you may lack.  I would be honored to learn from you, and to teach you, if you wish.  Do I possess any skills currently lacking aboard ship, that could be of strategic value to us in this world?"

"As you may have perceived, although I do have a variety of gifts, they don't necessarily function in every world I visit.  I have a healing gift, for example, but I will have to experiment to see if it works here."

"Do you have any maps, or history books, or bards or storytellers aboard, or any other means for me to learn of your world?  The faster I can learn about this place, the more effective I may be as I serve here."
Playtester
GM, 6493 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Thu 16 Oct 2008
at 14:56
  • msg #9

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

"I can not read deeply into your mind. So, I don't know all your skills. As to being rude, I understand. However, you are now part of the crew, the family of the Mary Piper. Family does not spy on family.  If and when we meet outsiders, then it would be well for you to keep your guard up."

He pauses.

"As for skills, I heard in your mind the clairvoyance, and the Navigators use that. I see how you walk, without air legs. What skills are you looking to learn?"

He gets up, his massive bulk overtopping you, and he walks you to the back of the ship where a young fellow is using a quill pen to write.

"This is Felipe, our bard." Balsom turns away and heads back to his cabin.

PT
Oak
GM, 1407 posts
Thu 16 Oct 2008
at 15:25
  • msg #10

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Playtester:
"I can not read deeply into your mind. So, I don't know all your skills. As to being rude, I understand. However, you are now part of the crew, the family of the Mary Piper. Family does not spy on family.  If and when we meet outsiders, then it would be well for you to keep your guard up."

I nod respectfully.

"Yes, sir.  And thank you."

Playtester:
He pauses.

"As for skills, I heard in your mind the clairvoyance, and the Navigators use that. I see how you walk, without air legs. What skills are you looking to learn?"

"At least in some worlds, I have skills in telepathy, clairvoyance, telekinesis, postcognition, precognition, teleportation, true seeing, banishment of malevolent spirits, and healing.  I'll have to experiment to see which skills will work in this world."

"As to skills I would like to learn, anything I don't already know."

I grin.

"However, I notice that I was not able to read your mind.  Mind shielding would certainly be a useful skill.  I also observe the katana you wear.  I would be honored to learn such skills."

Playtester:
He gets up, his massive bulk overtopping you, and he walks you to the back of the ship where a young fellow is using a quill pen to write.

"This is Felipe, our bard." Balsom turns away and heads back to his cabin.

PT

What species is Felipe?

"Well met, Felipe.  I am John Oakmaster, a traveler from afar.  I know almost nothing about this place, but I knew a bard would.  Could you tell me something about the peoples and the places and the history here?"
Playtester
GM, 6502 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Fri 17 Oct 2008
at 16:35
  • msg #11

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

"A True Reader of minds, eh? And a Spirit Banisher? We'll have the Chirurgeon evaluate your healing skills. We may find a use for you in trade negotiations, and in the looting of old ruins for sometimes there be old Powers that lay sleeping in the ruins of Man."

He nods.

"I can teach you mind shielding, but the katana is for the samurai. You would have to take up the burden of the samurai for me to teach you this weapon."

While you think on this, you come to the monkey man, Felipe.

"You are a strange one, Not of any of the Eight Races. Let me tell you a poem to answer your question in part."

Before the Breaking of the Wuld
A Race Mighty in Power Stood
Man ruled all the he could
The only thing free was his own mood
By arts dark and strange he would
Turn nature's child into another brood
And thus before their Maker dropped a hood
He saw his undoing in creatures of the wood
Pandaman, great and proud
Monkey man, quick and loud
Catman, he hates the crowd
Reptilan, you think easily cowed
Ariaettes, before whom trees bowed
Tigermen, draw your own shroud
Frog Lords, most ancient troud
Dog, not easily wowed
And the shattering of the Wuld
What Man began, so shall he complete."

Pt
Oak
GM, 1408 posts
Fri 17 Oct 2008
at 16:47
  • msg #12

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Playtester:
"A True Reader of minds, eh? And a Spirit Banisher? We'll have the Chirurgeon evaluate your healing skills. We may find a use for you in trade negotiations, and in the looting of old ruins for sometimes there be old Powers that lay sleeping in the ruins of Man."

He nods.

"I can teach you mind shielding, but the katana is for the samurai. You would have to take up the burden of the samurai for me to teach you this weapon."

I nod thoughtfully.

[Q1] "And what is the burden is the samurai?"

Playtester:
While you think on this, you come to the monkey man, Felipe.

"You are a strange one, Not of any of the Eight Races. Let me tell you a poem to answer your question in part."

Before the Breaking of the Wuld
A Race Mighty in Power Stood
Man ruled all the he could
The only thing free was his own mood
By arts dark and strange he would
Turn nature's child into another brood
And thus before their Maker dropped a hood
He saw his undoing in creatures of the wood
Pandaman, great and proud
Monkey man, quick and loud
Catman, he hates the crowd
Reptilan, you think easily cowed
Ariaettes, before whom trees bowed
Tigermen, draw your own shroud
Frog Lords, most ancient troud
Dog, not easily wowed
And the shattering of the Wuld
What Man began, so shall he complete."

Pt

I take in his words thoughtfully, then start asking questions, listen to his replies before proceeding...

[Q2] "How long has it been since the shattering of the Wuld?"

[Q3] "What is known of the race of Man?"

[Q4] "What do you think the last line of the poem means?"

[Q5] "What does an Ariaettes look like?"

[Q6] "I saw one aboard who looked like a bird with a ten-foot wingspan.  Is that one of the Eight Races?"

[Q7] "Are there any other sentient creatures besides the Eight Races?"

[Q8] "What religions are followed here?"

[Q9] "I am still learning of this culture.  What differences are there in culture between the Eight Races that I should be aware of, lest I accidentally offend anyone?"

[Q10] "Tell me about the crew.  What are their names, and their duties here, and what races are they from, and what are they like?"

[Q11] "What is your story?  How did you come to serve aboard the Mary Piper?"

[Q12] "Have you any other poems or songs that would help me understand this place and this people, and your past and your present?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:53, Fri 17 Oct 2008.
Playtester
GM, 6512 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Tue 21 Oct 2008
at 00:55
  • msg #13

Re: Oak Overwhelmed



[Q1] "And what is the burden is the samurai?"

=="To live each moment as if it were the last, and to not care for duty is as heavy as a mountain, and as light as a feather."

Playtester:
While you think on this, you come to the monkey man, Felipe.

"You are a strange one, Not of any of the Eight Races. Let me tell you a poem to answer your question in part."

Before the Breaking of the Wuld
A Race Mighty in Power Stood
Man ruled all the he could
The only thing free was his own mood
By arts dark and strange he would
Turn nature's child into another brood
And thus before their Maker dropped a hood
He saw his undoing in creatures of the wood
Pandaman, great and proud
Monkey man, quick and loud
Catman, he hates the crowd
Reptilan, you think easily cowed
Ariaettes, before whom trees bowed
Tigermen, draw your own shroud
Frog Lords, most ancient troud
Dog, not easily wowed
And the shattering of the Wuld
What Man began, so shall he complete."

Pt

I take in his words thoughtfully, then start asking questions, listen to his replies before proceeding...

[Q2] "How long has it been since the shattering of the Wuld?"

=="Many years, an age of becoming."

[Q3] "What is known of the race of Man?"

"They were great in power and had many fell and strange powers. They didn't have hair."

[Q4] "What do you think the last line of the poem means?"

=="Its said this is prophecy."

[Q5] "What does an Ariaettes look like?"

==He stands up and points toward the bow where a winged humanoid figure, a very large bird, but a rather small man depending on your pov, perches on the front prow of the Piper.

[Q6] "I saw one aboard who looked like a bird with a ten-foot wingspan.  Is that one of the Eight Races?"

[Q7] "Are there any other sentient creatures besides the Eight Races?"

=="Minds of steel,
Minds of air,
Minds of sand,
Your freedom steal
Your will impair
Your compliance demand"

[Q8] "What religions are followed here?"

=="Most follow the Lady, the Grey-eyed Goddess, but some follow the worship of the Two Gods, and some few such as the Tigermen mostly follow the Tiger Cult and only worship Ares."

[Q9] "I am still learning of this culture.  What differences are there in culture between the Eight Races that I should be aware of, lest I accidentally offend anyone?"

=="Um, I don't know any thing specific."

[Q10] "Tell me about the crew.  What are their names, and their duties here, and what races are they from, and what are they like?"

=="How much were you paying me again?" Said with a smile.

[Q11] "What is your story?  How did you come to serve aboard the Mary Piper?"

[Q12] "Have you any other poems or songs that would help me understand this place and this people, and your past and your present?"
</quote>
Oak
GM, 1410 posts
Tue 21 Oct 2008
at 01:54
  • msg #14

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Playtester:
[Q1] "And what is the burden is the samurai?"

=="To live each moment as if it were the last, and to not care for duty is as heavy as a mountain, and as light as a feather."

I ponder this quietly, then nod.

[Q1] "If I choose to walk this path, what should I do?  How do I proceed?"

Playtester:
=="How much were you paying me again?" Said with a smile.

I give a good-natured grin in return.

"Fair is fair, friend Felipe.  For your wealth of bardic knowledge, I shall repay you with similar coin, for I am a bard from a very distant land indeed.  And the stories and songs I know are, I suspect, utterly unknown in these lands, so your payment shall be in pearls exceedingly rare.  Fair?"

Assuming he agrees, I resume my questions, and also answer his as desired...

[Q2] "Tell me about the crew.  What are their names, and their duties here, and what races are they from, and what are they like?"

[Q3] "What is your story?  How did you come to serve aboard the Mary Piper?"

[Q4] "What more is known of the minds of steel and air and sand?"

[Q5] "What types of powers did Man possess?  What types of powers exist today?"

[Q6] "The Guard-Chieftain said 'sometimes there be old Powers that lay sleeping in the ruins of Man'.  Are these 'Powers' the minds of steel and air and sand, or are they artifacts of the Race of Man, or are they something else?  What is known of them?"

[Q7] "Your first poem spoke of Man's 'Maker'.  What more is known of the 'Maker'?"

[Q8] "What peoples or nations exist here?  Does each race form a nation, or are the races scattered and integrated?"

[Q9] "What group or nation are we a part of?  Who are our friends and enemies?"

[Q10] "Have you any other poems or songs that would help me understand this place and this people, and your past and your present?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:18, Tue 21 Oct 2008.
Playtester
GM, 6524 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Tue 21 Oct 2008
at 21:48
  • msg #15

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Oak:
Playtester:
[Q1] "And what is the burden is the samurai?"

=="To live each moment as if it were the last, and to not care for duty is as heavy as a mountain, and as light as a feather."

I ponder this quietly, then nod.

[Q1] "If I choose to walk this path, what should I do?  How do I proceed?"

He studies you for a long moment, weighing what he sees.

"Simple, draw this." He hands you a scroll on which is drawn a garden with a fountain. "Show me your soul."

Playtester:
=="How much were you paying me again?" Said with a smile.

I give a good-natured grin in return.

"Fair is fair, friend Felipe.  For your wealth of bardic knowledge, I shall repay you with similar coin, for I am a bard from a very distant land indeed.  And the stories and songs I know are, I suspect, utterly unknown in these lands, so your payment shall be in pearls exceedingly rare.  Fair?"

Assuming he agrees, I resume my questions, and also answer his as desired...

=="Fair enough, I guess."

[Q2] "Tell me about the crew.  What are their names, and their duties here, and what races are they from, and what are they like?"

==He takes you on a tour of the ship, meeting most of the crew and seeing every section.

[Q3] "What is your story?  How did you come to serve aboard the Mary Piper?"

=="I won a contest in the Great Forrest, Monkeyhome."

[Q4] "What more is known of the minds of steel and air and sand?"

=="They have strange powers, and are poorly understood."

[Q5] "What types of powers did Man possess?  What types of powers exist today?"

==He shrugs. "There are many powers, but they are not named in a song I was taught. Seers for Navigation, and our Chief Engineer has a Knack, and the Captain has Luck."

[Q6] "The Guard-Chieftain said 'sometimes there be old Powers that lay sleeping in the ruins of Man'.  Are these 'Powers' the minds of steel and air and sand, or are they artifacts of the Race of Man, or are they something else?  What is known of them?"

=="Spirit Banishers can sometimes deal with them, as can Alchemists.  For normal beings, fire is a good tool. They have little love for the Eight Races, and they don't move, but in their domain they are to be feared."

[Q7] "Your first poem spoke of Man's 'Maker'.  What more is known of the 'Maker'?"

[Q8] "What peoples or nations exist here?  Does each race form a nation, or are the races scattered and integrated?"

"There are many nations. Most are dominated by one race or another, but few are pureblooded."

[Q9] "What group or nation are we a part of?  Who are our friends and enemies?"

=="We are Free Traders out of Sardic. We are a part of a league of trading cities. Some of the larger landmasses are hostile to us, and so the pirates, and the Tiger men."

[Q10] "Have you any other poems or songs that would help me understand this place and this people, and your past and your present?"


He sings you several.

Then he takes his payment in questions, and soon its dinner.

PT
Oak
GM, 1411 posts
Tue 21 Oct 2008
at 22:15
  • msg #16

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Playtester:
[Q1] "If I choose to walk this path, what should I do?  How do I proceed?"

He studies you for a long moment, weighing what he sees.

"Simple, draw this." He hands you a scroll on which is drawn a garden with a fountain. "Show me your soul."

I take the scroll, giving him a respectful nod.

Then I ponder the scroll thoughtfully for several moments, and bow my head in silent prayer.

Then I draw the Garden of Eden in the foreground, with a variety of plants, and animals, and a spring of water in the midst of it, cascading down a small waterfall.  Two trees are given prominence.

On the far side of the Garden are Cherubims, and a flaming sword guarding the entrance to the Garden.

The sky is dark and stormy.

In the background, a man and woman walk sadly away from the Garden.

In the far distance, the path they walk leads to a hill, with a cross on top of it.

Playtester:
[Q2] "Tell me about the crew.  What are their names, and their duties here, and what races are they from, and what are they like?"

==He takes you on a tour of the ship, meeting most of the crew and seeing every section.

As we set off for the tour, I pray silently.

:: Dearest LORD, please help me now to truly see, as you enabled Amanda and I to see in Radix.  I pray in Jesus' Name...  Amen. ::

OOC: Did the prayer work?  Do I see anything interesting?

Do you have names and duties and races for the crew yet, or is that still a work in progress?  Either way, do you know how many crew members there are?  Are all of the Eight Races represented?  Any general personality tendencies, or a wide variation?  I'm definitely interested in knowing more about and interacting with the crew members, if and when you have any info for me...  :)

Also, do you have any info on the sections of the ship?  Does the ship seem to run on tech, psi, magic, or some combo?

Playtester:
[Q7] "Your first poem spoke of Man's 'Maker'.  What more is known of the 'Maker'?"

OOC: Did Felipe have any answer for this question?  :)

Playtester:
Then he takes his payment in questions, and soon its dinner.

OOC: What is for dinner?  Who am I eating with?  Where are we eating?  Anyone around for me to talk to?  :)
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:37, Wed 22 Oct 2008.
Playtester
GM, 6535 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Tue 28 Oct 2008
at 01:48
  • msg #17

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Balsom takes the drawing gravely, and bows to it, and then puts it in a small, scented and decorated wooden box.

He bows to you, and walks away with the box.

=========

Felipe doesn't know about "Man's Maker" except he's mentioned in a number of poems.

==========

You pray and you see things. Most of the crewmen don't seem to have any special thing, but one man has spinning cogwheels orbitting his head in perpetual motion, and Balsom has the Tao over himself.  One of the navigator/seers has an immaterial third eye. One man has a pair of grey eyes floating over his head which regard you with severe, yet knowing majesty.

The fans which push the sails are overlain with immaterial cogs spinning.

There are fifty-two crewmen, and all the races except the Tiger-men are represented.  It is a trading ship, with sailors who might engage in a bit of trade on the side. They are enthusiasts for trading and merchanting with bits of conversation about good deals, and nice places to buy something and markets to sell it at. But, there is a wide variance.

OOC: If you want the names, may I reccomend the First or Second Book of Worlds which has the Alpha and Beta of Mary Piper (with this being something like Epsilon.)

IC: There is holds beneath, and an engineer's shop, and a galley, officer's quarters, crew quarters, chirurgeon's room, a longboat, two masts and four fans (the outer fans are on short outriggers), and there is a seer's room, and the bridge.

Dinner is 1) Cheese soup. 2) Saurbrauten 3) Loaf of hard bread with butter 4) Radish salad with olives and chipotle as odd bits.

There is a wide array of people to talk to, and they're quite eager to chat, but its not a place for a deep conversation with the banging of pots and the scraping of tables, and the shouts for "More food, cookie!"

PT
Oak
GM, 1413 posts
Tue 28 Oct 2008
at 02:08
  • msg #18

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I chat with those around me, attempting to glean from the bits of conversation about good deals an idea both of significant locations and significant goods.

I also try to get to know those who seem friendly and benevolent, asking about where they are from and what brought them here, and finding out what types of things they have to trade, and what types of things they value in return.  In these conversations also, I try to glean tidbits about interesting locations and interesting goods.

If there is an opportunity to chat with any of those that my Sight reveals special things about, I do so, and attempt to gain insight about what these visualizations correspond to, particularly the non-obvious ones.
Playtester
GM, 6545 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Wed 29 Oct 2008
at 01:55
  • msg #19

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Names of ports on shattered bits of rock tumble past you: Sardic Expanse, New Haven, and Three Moons.  They talk easily, and lightly being a traderfolk, but their deeper secrets are well hidden.  The major trade items is power crystals, Emeralds, but few are wealthy enough to even trade in the small ones.  Instead, they take luxury items like tapestries, and spices like saffron and peppercorns, and unfortunately damascened swords. But even the poorest have a bit of decorated pottery or some bit of  scrimshaw from the tusk of an airwhale they plan on turning into credits.

There are those who seem less than benevolent, but their sin would be greed, and envy, and perhaps a willingness to cut too sharp a corner.

You speak with the monkey with the grey eyes above him, and soon find he's a very devout worshipper of Athena.

The man with the cogs about his head is the ship's engineer.

PT
Oak
GM, 1420 posts
Wed 29 Oct 2008
at 03:09
  • msg #20

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Things I attempt to find out more about during my conversations:

(*) What are power crystals?  What are they used for?  Are they the same as emeralds, or are those two different trade items?

(*) Why "unfortunately" about the swords?

(*) How does the ship fly?  What principles are involved (mag? psi? tech? though not asked in those terms)?

(*) Are there any items around that might be of interest for me to obtain (psi/mag/tech things with unusual and/or useful functionalities, and/or that confer unusual and/or useful powers)?

Additional observations I make: whether the ship unisex or coed, and whether I detect any other versers in this universe.
Playtester
GM, 6554 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Wed 29 Oct 2008
at 21:41
  • msg #21

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Emeralds are used to provide power, like for the ship.

Things have been getting more violent, lately. There have been more pirate attacks, and several minor wars have broken out.

"The fan pushes the sails, and the float stones are energized."  Its pretty clear that the ship violates Newton's Third Law of Motion with fans on it, being able to blow into the sails and propel the ship. So, if this is physics, its a physics that is completely bizarre.

OOC: How do you go about finding out?

The ship is male, and no versers.

PT
Oak
GM, 1421 posts
Wed 29 Oct 2008
at 22:15
  • msg #22

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

"Has the Mary Piper been attacked by pirates?  If so, how long ago, and how often?  What do we do if pirates attack?"

I find out about potentially interesting items through my conversations regarding what kinds of things are valued in trading, both by the ship and by individuals.

"How do float stones work?  And while I see that the air from the fans fills the sails and propels the ship, would the fan blowing against the air push the other way, and tend to cancel the effect?"

"These are fascinating mysteries to me.  How may I learn more about the ways of engineering?"

When I have an opportunity, I look at the gems I possess through my Sight for any signs of unusual properties...

Given that I have been converting my earnings from multiple worlds into gems for easy transport, and given that green is actually my favorite color, do I happen to have any emeralds among my possessions?

Whichever specific types of gems we end up determining that I possess, how valuable are they here?
Playtester
GM, 6561 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Fri 31 Oct 2008
at 02:44
  • msg #23

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Oak:
"Has the Mary Piper been attacked by pirates?

"Yes."

  If so, how long ago, and how often?

"Maybe once or twice a trip."

  What do we do if pirates attack?"

"Try to outrun them, or lose them in a cloud or behind a rock, but if not 'sound stand by to repel boarders.'"

I find out about potentially interesting items through my conversations regarding what kinds of things are valued in trading, both by the ship and by individuals.

==Ambergris, swordstalk grass, seven fruit tree saplings, gear from old ruins, scrimshaw, macrame, pottery well worked...

"How do float stones work?

==They negate gravity by their natural tendency to float which is heightened when power is pumped into them.

 And while I see that the air from the fans fills the sails and propels the ship, would the fan blowing against the air push the other way, and tend to cancel the effect?"

"These are fascinating mysteries to me.  How may I learn more about the ways of engineering?"

When I have an opportunity, I look at the gems I possess through my Sight for any signs of unusual properties...

Given that I have been converting my earnings from multiple worlds into gems for easy transport, and given that green is actually my favorite color, do I happen to have any emeralds among my possessions?

Whichever specific types of gems we end up determining that I possess, how valuable are they here?

Oak
GM, 1422 posts
Fri 31 Oct 2008
at 04:24
  • msg #24

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

"Where do float stones come from?  Are they easy and cheap to obtain, or difficult and expensive?"

When I have an opportunity in private, I look at the gems I possess through my Sight for any signs of unusual properties...

Given that I have been converting my earnings from multiple worlds into gems for easy transport, and given that green is actually my favorite color, do I happen to have any emeralds among my possessions?

Whichever specific types of gems we end up determining that I possess, how valuable are they here?

BTW, am I able to get any details on what type of old ruin gear is available?  :)
This message was last edited by the GM at 06:08, Fri 31 Oct 2008.
Playtester
GM, 6573 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Fri 31 Oct 2008
at 18:18
  • msg #25

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Oak:
"Where do float stones come from?

"They're usually found floating in air spaces far from settlements."

  Are they easy and cheap to obtain, or difficult and expensive?"

"Search a cubic space of air a day's travel in all directions for a month, and you will probably find one or two. If you're lucky, three or four. But not near here because this is on a trade route."

When I have an opportunity in private, I look at the gems I possess through my Sight for any signs of unusual properties...

Given that I have been converting my earnings from multiple worlds into gems for easy transport, and given that green is actually my favorite color, do I happen to have any emeralds among my possessions?

==You had a few months to gather them, and with a GE roll of '21', I'll say you have one.

Some form of energy is flowing into your emerald.

Whichever specific types of gems we end up determining that I possess, how valuable are they here?

"Ruby, Opal, Emerald" You say to your self as you wonder how you're going to determine their value.

BTW, am I able to get any details on what type of old ruin gear is available?  :)


You get fantastic and obviously embroidered stories. But some sounds like bioweaponry, and others sound like robotic weapons, and holograms, and others just sound really bizarre although you can feel that 'flicker' in your brain itching as if its trying to work, but can't.
Oak
GM, 1423 posts
Fri 31 Oct 2008
at 18:58
  • msg #26

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I attempt to find out what "swordstalk grass" is in my dinner conversations.

I also try to identify which folks seem most friendly and trustworthy for future reference, and try to get to know them a bit, and whatever tidbits of cultural knowledge and understanding I am able.

After dinner, I spend some time alone in prayer, seeking the LORD's guidance and wisdom.

Then I attempt to stretch out my postcognition and precognition, in order to gain more insight into this place.

And after this, I attempt a bit of telekinesis to see if it can be done here...
This message was last edited by the GM at 23:44, Sun 02 Nov 2008.
Playtester
GM, 6586 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Mon 3 Nov 2008
at 18:48
  • msg #27

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Kyle the Ariatte, a bird man, takes you up to the prow of the ship after dinner. He has you peer over the front, and the world swims alarmingly in front of you as you look down, and down, and down.  Huge chunks of rock, some obviously populated spin beneath you in multi-coloured airs.  The rocks get smaller and smaller as you look further and further down until they are only specks.

"Beautiful, isn't it?" Kyle says with enthusiasm. "Every time I look overboard, I just want to fly and fly and fly. Anyways, look on the front of the hull, the prow. You see those green turning to brown strips about fifteen feet long? Those are swordgrass, very mature, and expensive. Most swordgrass is smaller. But its got an edge on it. Its not as sharp or as strong as steel, but I had a cousin who cut his thumb to the bone on one piece of it."

You spend some time after this praying, and it is good.

Then you try post-cog, and it works. You catch a glimpse of a pirate crew attempting to take over the Piper, and being driven off with axes, swords, and clubs.

Precog doesn't work.

Simple TK works.

PT
Oak
GM, 1424 posts
Mon 3 Nov 2008
at 19:42
  • msg #28

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I look at the awesome view with him, enjoying the colors at the same time as I grip the side of the ship with white-knuckle strength.

"Thank you for sharing this view with me.  It is beautiful, yet terrifying, to one such as I.  What is it like to fly, and feel no fear from such heights?"

"What would happen if I fell overboard?  Is there some planet or other large mass below us, resulting in the gravity that draws us downward, that I would eventually splatter against?"

"What is your homeland like, Kyle?  And what paths have brought you here to serve aboard the Mary Piper?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:16, Mon 03 Nov 2008.
Playtester
GM, 6596 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Tue 4 Nov 2008
at 23:41
  • msg #29

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

"It is like seeing a pretty girl smile at you. Exhilarating. I feel so alive in the air."

He looks a bit sad.

"But I have responsibilities. To live the life of a Wild Crow, and go where the winds blow me is not enough."

He shakes his head.

"Its complicated. Above the ship, you can feel its pull, and if you fall off the side, you can feel it but weaker.  But far enough away, and you feel nothing.  Get close enough to a rock, and you feel them. Ultimately, there seems to be some faint pull down."

He thinks.

"My homeland is a number of small rocks. The Stone Bits Kingdom is not powerful or mighty, but we like it. We need trade to survive, and so we're one of the stronger supporters of the Piper and others like her."

PT
Oak
GM, 1425 posts
Tue 4 Nov 2008
at 23:50
  • msg #30

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I nod quietly and sympathetically.

"Responsibilities.  I know the feeling, friend Kyle.  Do you have a wife?  Children?  Or are there other types of responsibilities?"

"The 'Stone Bits Kingdom'...  Who are the friends of your people, and who are the enemies?"

"What types of things are most valued in trading here?  I brought a few gems from my travels..."
This message was last edited by the GM at 02:13, Wed 05 Nov 2008.
Playtester
GM, 6606 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Wed 5 Nov 2008
at 22:05
  • msg #31

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

"I have a wife, and five children. Plus, I owe my kingdom aid."  He speaks seriously. "I expect at least two of my children to be sailors like me if things go well." He sighs. "We have a rivalry in the Panda Men in the neighbouring Jungle Rock with their Council of Tribes. And there are pirates, and renegades, of course.  And we fear the rise of the Tigermen."

"Well Emeralds first and foremost, and then the more unusual, the deeper the color is better."

PT
Oak
GM, 1426 posts
Wed 5 Nov 2008
at 23:13
  • msg #32

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I nod thoughtfully.

"I have a wife and two children.  I miss them very much... and I know not when I will be able to find my way home to them."

"How many kingdoms are there, and how many people are there in a typical kingdom?"

"Which peoples support the Piper and others like her, and which ones do not, and why?"

"I heard the Guard-Chieftain refer to the Tiger Men as the 'Tiger Cult'.  Why are the Tiger Men hostile, and what are their beliefs?"

"Emeralds are the most valuable because they somehow provide power, correct?  How much would such gems be worth?"
Playtester
GM, 6618 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Thu 6 Nov 2008
at 19:15
  • msg #33

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Oak:
I nod thoughtfully.

"I have a wife and two children.  I miss them very much... and I know not when I will be able to find my way home to them."

"Then I have it easy. I will see mine in about three months."

"How many kingdoms are there, and how many people are there in a typical kingdom?"

"Oh many, many." He looks at you. "What an odd question."

"Which peoples support the Piper and others like her, and which ones do not, and why?"

"Many of the smaller kingdoms do, but some of the larger kingdoms, and the ones given to piracy, adn of course, any land greatly filled with Tiger Men. We need trade, but others think we don't."

"I heard the Guard-Chieftain refer to the Tiger Men as the 'Tiger Cult'.  Why are the Tiger Men hostile, and what are their beliefs?"

"The Tiger Men almost exclusively worship Ares. He is Lord of the Unveiled Club, the Bloody Tooth, the Massacre. His sons are Chaos and Strife, but the Tiger Men call them Freedom and Strength."

He spits, and then makes a sign apologetically.

"Its not wise to spit on a god, even if you don't worship him."

"Emeralds are the most valuable because they somehow provide power, correct?  How much would such gems be worth?"

Oak
GM, 1427 posts
Thu 6 Nov 2008
at 21:01
  • msg #34

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I smile wistfully.

"How old are your children?  What are they like?"

-=-

I look back at him, and grin good-naturedly.

"An odd question?  Perhaps so, for one who has lived here.  But, as you may have noticed, I am not of the Eight Races.  I am a traveler from far away indeed, and know very little of this place."

"Emeralds are the most valuable because they somehow provide power, correct?  What types of things do emeralds power?  How much are such gems worth?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 15:14, Fri 07 Nov 2008.
Playtester
GM, 6628 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Fri 7 Nov 2008
at 19:06
  • msg #35

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

"The oldest is nine, and he so desperately wants to be an adult. He tries to be serious and responsible, but he can't quite get it. The next one wants to be a float stone hunter, or an artist, or a fisherman or...something else. It changes day by day. The middle one gets along well with everyone, except sometimes he loses his temper and we get out of his way and let him stew until he's calm again. The next just worships her two oldest brothers and tags along everywhere.  The last seems convinced that if Mommy puts him down that the Universe is out of order. She tries to act like Mommy in every way she can. We've seen her instructing her dolls in how to clean up the room with the exact words my wife uses. It cracked us up."

He shakes his head.

"I don't know. It just seems odd." He seems unable to explicate it further. "Its...not how we think."

And suddenly you see it. They're not 21st century Americans who are obsessed with counting everything to the last detail. Inside their heads, they think different thoughts than you do, and not just because of different experiences. They see the world at a slant to you.

"Oh, yes, Emeralds...float stones, and factories, and water pumps, and some weapons if you're lucky enough to have one. A nicely topped off emerald might run a thousand marks of Piper notes or 1500 New Haven notes. With that, a frugal man could overwinter in his own cottage in a nice village to wait out the winter storms."
Oak
GM, 1428 posts
Fri 7 Nov 2008
at 19:54
  • msg #36

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I smile warmly as he describes his family.

"They sound like a wonderful family, friend Kyle.  I'd love to meet them someday."

"What of your wife?  What is she like?  How did you meet her?"

"I've noticed some folk have various powers or gifts here, such as the seers with clairvoyance, or the guard-chieftain with mind reading.  What other types of gifts do folks have here?  How common or rare are such gifts?"
Playtester
GM, 6636 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Mon 10 Nov 2008
at 19:01
  • msg #37

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

"If you're on board three months from now, you'll have a chance to meet her." Kyle says. "Feel free to come to my roost. I met her at a faire gathering, the Chucking of the Rocks."

He shrugs his wings.

"I know some who have gifts, but they're never very many with them. I don't know the answer to your question."

PT
Oak
GM, 1429 posts
Mon 10 Nov 2008
at 19:09
  • msg #38

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I smile and nod.

"Thank you.  I'd like that."

"What kinds of things does the crew do when we aren't on duty?"
Playtester
GM, 6644 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Tue 11 Nov 2008
at 15:26
  • msg #39

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

"We talk, like now, or some do. Its very tiring work." He looks up and an officer comes up to you both with brushes in his hand. "Lunch is over."

"The foredeck needs to be scrubbed. Balsom's orders. You're a deckhand."

Kyle shows you the 'Piper way' of scrubbing the deck. It doesn't look hard. Five minutes later you're seriously reevaluating that assumption.

And despite being in a group of five people there's no chance to talk.

PT
Oak
GM, 1430 posts
Tue 11 Nov 2008
at 15:56
  • msg #40

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I work with a will, despite the muscles that are starting to feel a bit tired.

:: Thank you, LORD, for bringing me to this place.  Thank you for providing me with food and shelter, and with friendly folk who need to know you.  Thank you for providing me with the opportunity for exercise, and for being useful, and for bonding with my fellow workers, and for earning my keep, all at the same time.  Please help me now to be a faithful worker, and faithful witness, and faithful friend, since you have made me your ambassador here.  I pray in Jesus' Name...  Amen. ::

When I tire, I pray for renewed strength and vigor.

And I consider the emerald the LORD has provided me with, and the way that energy seems to flow through it.  And I imagine myself drawing upon that energy to reinvigorate and sustain me in my labors...

OOC: What species are my other co-workers in the group besides Kyle?  Any names?  Personality traits evident thus far?  Workers or shirkers?  Any special attributes revealed by my Sight?  Etc.?  :)
Playtester
GM, 6655 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Thu 13 Nov 2008
at 00:31
  • msg #41

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

You pull energy through the gem, and feel energy sustaining you even as your arms were about to tremble from fatigue. You can feel the blessing of God, and the flow of energy from your emerald.

1@3 Increase Endurance. +@1 Bonus Morale.

George, Jim, Severn, Lucas, and Marky are your deckhand companions.  They have no special gifts.  They are uniformly tough, and wiry, and George is clearly bucking for promotion because he works very hard indeed whereas they merely work with casual skill that has you sweating to keep up.

After an hour, Severn slaps you on the shoulder.

"Go take a drink. Eat a salt pill. You're a newb and you'll pass out if you try to keep up with us."

PT
Oak
GM, 1431 posts
Thu 13 Nov 2008
at 00:45
  • msg #42

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I wipe my brow, and give a friendly smile.

"Thank you, friend Severn.  I'll be right back..."

I take the drink and the salt pill, and return relatively quickly to resume my labors.

:: Dearest LORD, thank you for your sustenance and strength.  Please open the hearts of these companions to you, I pray... ::

And as I scrub, I begin to sing a hauntingly sweet tune, not loudly enough to be annoying, but loudly enough for the words to be clearly heard.

"O sing a song of Bethlehem, of shepherds watching there,
And of the news that came to them from angels in the air.
The light that shone on Bethlehem fills all the world today;
Of Jesus’ birth and peace on earth the angels sing alway.

O sing a song of Nazareth, of sunny days of joy;
O sing of fragrant flowers’ breath, and of the sinless Boy.
For now the flowers of Nazareth in every heart may grow;
Now spreads the fame of His dear Name on all the winds that blow.

O sing a song of Galilee, of lake and woods and hill,
Of Him Who walked upon the sea and bade the waves be still.
For though like waves on Galilee, dark seas of trouble roll,
When faith has heard the Master’s Word, falls peace upon the soul.

O sing a song of Calvary, its glory and dismay,
Of Him Who hung upon the tree, and took our sins away.
For He Who died on Calvary is risen from the grave,
And Christ, our Lord, by Heaven adored, is mighty now to save."

OOC: What species are these co-workers?  :)
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:56, Thu 13 Nov 2008.
Playtester
GM, 6661 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Thu 13 Nov 2008
at 15:02
  • msg #43

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

You sing the song, and others listen as they work, but you have to take a break before you can sing the next one.  Three hours later, you and your company have finished the foredeck. Its polished beautifully.

"Tommorrow, we do the aft deck. For now, fifteen minutes, and then we're on to shifting the cargo, and cleaning out the hold of rats and termites. Oak, how you holding up? I want you to take a break if you need it."

Without drawing energy from the emerald, you'd probably be tapped out about now, but so far, you're just tired.

Eight hours later, you're sore in places you didn't realize existed.  You fall into your hammock, and are asleep before it stops swinging. You're woken the next day by a splash of water in the face. Your body aches from head to toe.

PT
Oak
GM, 1432 posts
Thu 13 Nov 2008
at 15:25
  • msg #44

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

"These fifteen minutes are very welcome.  I'm tired, but I'll carry on as well as I can as long as I can."

And the next morning...

"Ugh.  I'm awake.  Thank you.  Good morning.  I'll be right up."

:: Ow.  My head hurts.  My neck hurts.  My back hurts.  My arms hurt.  My hands hurt.  My legs hurt.  My feet hurt.  My hair hurts.  Ow.  Ow.  Ow... ::

:: Dearest LORD, please heal me now from these aches and pains, that I may serve you faithfully today by carrying out the duties you have put before me, and by serving those you have put me among.  Please restore and reinvigorate and sustain me this day, by your grace and power.  I pray in Jesus' Name...  Amen. ::

I tap into the emerald as well, drawing from its energy to restore and reinvigorate and sustain me for the labors of the day.

And now and then, I sing as I work...

OOC: Is Kyle included in my work group?  What species are the others?
Playtester
GM, 6673 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Sun 16 Nov 2008
at 04:09
  • msg #45

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

You're healed, and you go out to work with George, Jim, Severn, Lucas, and Marky who are Aeriet, Panda-man, Monkeyman, Lizardman, and Monkeyman respectively. Kyle is higher ranked, and if he has spare time, he helps your group.

Several days of this go by, and you find that you've been accepted as a crewmember, and that you have enough energy left to stay awake for an hour at night.

+@1 Stamina or Endurance.

The Chirurgeon comes to you.

"You clearly are an educated man. You could come help me instead of having to scrub decks and shift cargo."

PT
Oak
GM, 1433 posts
Sun 16 Nov 2008
at 04:41
  • msg #46

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I nod respectfully, and smile.

"I am privileged to serve, however I may be of use.  If I can be of help to you, I would be honoured."

OOC: What species is he?  Does my Sight reveal anything interesting about him?  Do I know his name yet, or have I not met him before?  :)
Playtester
GM, 6684 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Mon 17 Nov 2008
at 22:27
  • msg #47

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

He is a Panda Man like Balsom. His name is Doctor Henrys or Doc. Your sight reveals nothing interesting about him.

"Well, I know Balsom had you on this task, but I think it a waste of an educated man, myself." The Doctor says. "And I've asked the Captain and he says that it is up to  you."

PT
Oak
GM, 1434 posts
Mon 17 Nov 2008
at 22:40
  • msg #48

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I nod thoughtfully.

"If I can be of help to you, I would be honoured to do so.  Thank you for your kind interest in me.  And if there are times you have no need of me, I can always return to lend a hand here."

"How may I be of help?  Show me where there is need, and train me as needed, and I will be privileged to serve."
Playtester
GM, 6693 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Wed 19 Nov 2008
at 03:43
  • msg #49

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

The Chirurgeon nods, and takes you back to his workroom. A small, but sturdy wooden table centers the room, and there are benches with shelves full of small glass bottles and pegboards heavy with metal saws, and other instruments.

"Here is the sleepjuice." He points at a small bottle. "It can twist a man's  head so be careful with it."

He shows you how to use the tweezers to remove a splinter from a hand, or a larger splinter in the wake of a battle. He shows you how to use moss to pack a wound. He shows you the use of the saws to cut off limbs that need to be amputated.

1@2 Primitive Surgery.

That night, you receive the box that Balsom had given you. Inside is a note.

"Not everyone is suited for the path of the samurai."

PT
Oak
GM, 1435 posts
Wed 19 Nov 2008
at 05:28
  • msg #50

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I seek out Balsom, bringing the box and the note with me.

"I received your note, Guard-Chieftain, but I do not understand.  I have sought to serve here, in whatever capacity there has been need, with whatever gifts I have been blessed with.  Is that not our duty?  How have I fallen short?"

"I would know more of this path... but I need to be shown the way."
Playtester
GM, 6700 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Thu 20 Nov 2008
at 02:41
  • msg #51

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

He looks thoughtful for several long moments.

"In the time of Lewis the Great King of the Pandamen, there was a kindly and generous man who because his father and his father before him had become samurai, so sought the same path.  He took up the burden, but he did not know what it was. So it was one day that he stood guard on the King's outer door. Those who entered in day by day, he greeted with a friendly word, unlike the other guards.  He was much liked by the people of the castle."

Balsom looks sad.

"And so one day, an old man came to him, and begged his aid. His donkey had fallen into a ditch just up the road. Several priceless manuscripts were in the pack of the donkey and in danger of being spoilt by the mud."

Balsom shakes his head as if in despair at the gross stupidity and evil of the world.

"So he went and helped the man. Meanwhile ninja came and stole into the King's chamber and attacked him, wounding him dreadfully. Another samurai, not well liked, not happy or friendly, but conscious of his duty nearly died as he came to the king's rescue. For he was the inner guard, and he had not been swayed from the duty given to him by his master."

Balsom stares straight at you.

"The inner guard was my great-great-great grandfather. The outer guard was sentenced to die for dereliction of duty, but he was so well beloved that the King who survived pardoned him, and instead broke his sword over his face to mark him as one who could not be a samurai."

Balsom sighs.

"I gave you a job to do."

PT
Oak
GM, 1436 posts
Thu 20 Nov 2008
at 05:38
  • msg #52

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I take in his words thoughtfully, and nod slowly.

"I understand, Guard-Chieftain."

"But was not the duty of the outer guard given by the king?  Therefore, leaving his post at the request of another was blameworthy."

"On the Mary Piper, is it not my duty to serve the Captain?"

"When you accepted me aboard, you told me that I should view the Captain as the 'right hand' of supreme authority.  And you also mentioned various duties I might usefully assume, such as seer, or deckhand, or cook, or chirurgeon."

"The Chirurgeon came to me, asking if I would assist him, and stating that he had spoken with the Captain.  I did not see others available to him with the gifts that he had need of.  And I perceived that he would probably be left without suitable aid if I did not step forward, whereas the crew I had been assigned to by you would still have others to carry on, even without me."

"So the Captain, the one that is my duty to serve, gave me a choice of duties, and I went where I perceived the need was greatest."

I bow respectfully.

"I did not perceive that my serving in one capacity or in another would be of importance to you, as long as I faithfully performed whatever duties the Captain sees fit.  If I have erred, I am sorry.  I meant no disrespect."

"I know that I have much to learn, and will make many mistakes.  If I didn't, I would have no need of instruction.  I am a stranger here, and am ignorant of many things.  I hope that you will still consider teaching me, and have patience with my errors, and not forsake me if I misstep along the path."
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:15, Thu 20 Nov 2008.
Playtester
GM, 6717 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Fri 21 Nov 2008
at 04:09
  • msg #53

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

"Well argued, except for one thing. The Captain does not care if you become a samurai. He has no feelings toward the matter at all."

Balsom pauses.

"I do wonder if pride entered into it. After all, its clear you are a man of refinement and education. Putting you to work as a deck hand is an insult."

He stares at you, and you're pretty sure he's reading your surface thoughts although you can't be sure.

"Riddle me this. Why would I wish to put you in this degrading job?"

PT
Oak
GM, 1437 posts
Fri 21 Nov 2008
at 06:29
  • msg #54

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

"Guard-Chieftain, please read my thoughts as I recall starting my duties as a deckhand, and judge for yourself."

And I focus my thoughts with my photographic memory, remembering...

Oak:
I work with a will, despite the muscles that are starting to feel a bit tired.

:: Thank you, LORD, for bringing me to this place.  Thank you for providing me with food and shelter, and with friendly folk who need to know you.  Thank you for providing me with the opportunity for exercise, and for being useful, and for bonding with my fellow workers, and for earning my keep, all at the same time.  Please help me now to be a faithful worker, and faithful witness, and faithful friend, since you have made me your ambassador here.  I pray in Jesus' Name...  Amen. ::

When I tire, I pray for renewed strength and vigor...

I nod quietly.

"Am I immune to pride?  I confess that I am not, for though I strive to do what is right, I am full of sin, as are we all.  Indeed, I was a highly learned man in my homeland, and enjoyed all too well being called 'Doctor' and 'Professor'."

"But I serve the LORD God Almighty, and He is holy, and hates sin, including pride.  As it is written in Holy Scripture, 'Whosoever will be great among you, let him be your minister; And whosoever will be chief among you, let him be your servant: Even as the Son of man came not to be ministered unto, but to minister, and to give his life a ransom for many.'"

I pause, quietly regarding him.

"It is true that I like to use whatever humble gifts the LORD has blessed me with.  But I arrived here a stranger, and you allowed me to stay, and become a part of the crew, and work along side of them, and be useful.  I have food to eat, and a place to sleep.  And I haven't been thrown overboard, even though I arrived uninvited."

"And beyond these things, you have actually considered teaching me the ways of the samurai."

"Indeed, I did not realize until now that you specifically desired my service as a deckhand, in preference to the other types of duties you mentioned before, and I did not realize until now that serving as a deckhand was the first step along the path of the samurai."

"But as to why you would give me such an assignment, I believe that it begins the needed training.  It teaches duty and discipline and diligence.  It teaches humility and honour, for faithful service is honourable regardless of how lowly or exalted the task.  And it builds strength and stamina, which are needful for physical training."

I give another respectful bow.

"Should I therefore feel insulted or degraded, when I have been the recipient of such blessing?"
This message was last edited by the GM at 16:31, Fri 21 Nov 2008.
Playtester
GM, 6725 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Sat 22 Nov 2008
at 21:00
  • msg #55

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

"The samurai needs three things. Right spirit. Right understanding. Right action." He counts these off on his fingers. "We have both the right spirit, but have both failed in right understanding. These three build on each other."

He pauses, and then opens a side cabinet and draws out a scroll and a quill pen, some paper, and an inkwell.

"You will read one of the tales of the swordsaint Riaah, and explain the correct action for Riaah. This will be written down in a good hand as in the scroll. You will do one of these each week." He pauses again. "I expect perfection."

He then bows to you as he hands you these implements.

"Indeed, you are right for the purposes of the deckhand work. It is physically the hardest labor on the ship, and so I will have you continue. Soon, I shall add weights to your pockets. I prefer to borrow some of the ballast stones. Work hard."

And then he sits down, and points you to a lacquerred cabinet.

"Inside is a tea set. A samurai is not merely a warrior, but a being of culture. You will enjoy this..."

You don't. There is a certain precise way to do everything. And it involves sitting exactly correct in a way that stretches your muscles in ways you think they've never met before. And then acting like its easy and making light, witty conversation...for several hours.

PT
Oak
GM, 1438 posts
Sat 22 Nov 2008
at 21:30
  • msg #56

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I bow in return as I receive the implements.

"Thank you."

I already have some familiarity with the concept of oriental tea interactions and ceremonies.  Indeed, the physical demands are challenging, and I pray for strength, and seek to draw energy from my emerald.

But even more challenging in some ways is the constant focus upon conversing with another.  I much prefer less formal conversation, where I am able to easily come and go at will, not to mention being able to physically recline at ease when doing so.  The sheer effort in keeping up one's social attention span, trapped in one place, unable to withdraw at will, is one that also prompts me to pray for strength, and one that also has me attempting to draw energy from the emerald to keep up my mental strength and freshness.

Thankfully, I am greatly interested in getting to know Balsom, and to learn more of him and his ways, so this helps me cope a great deal with the challenges.

Afterward, I approach the Chirurgeon.

"Thank you for your kindness and interest, but I do not feel at peace with this change.  I had previously accepted the duty of a deckhand, and I feel I should continue it, at least for now.  There are things I need to learn there, skills and strength that I need to develop first.  Perhaps in time, I will be ready to work with you again, and to tend to such wounds with such skill, and I hope that you would then consider accepting me back."

I resume my duties with the deckhands.

At some point during the coming week when I am alone, I take one of my own coins, place it several feet from me, and experiment with attempting to teleport it into my hand.

And I begin to read this week's tale of Riaah...
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:04, Mon 24 Nov 2008.
Playtester
GM, 6731 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Wed 26 Nov 2008
at 03:49
  • msg #57

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

The Chirurgeon replies.

"I am glad. It was a test for you from Balsom."

You go back to work with some good-natured razzing from your fellow deckhands who keep pretending to have splinters in their hands that they need you to remove.

Soon enough, you're back to your routine. But, its stretched because now you have to find time at night for study.  The 'Tales of Riaah' are obviously a teaching tool with each situation described in detail, and then a series of questions posed as to the true nature and right action to be undertaken.

It is strongly oriental.

For the first month, you don't find how your logic is as Balsom refuses to read any paper whose writing is less than calligraphic excellence.

1@4 Pandaman Calligraphy with Quill Pen.

You seem to have hit a base in your weight. Very little fat is left on your frame, and  your muscles stand out like wires underneath your skin. You've gained a pound in the last month.

+@1 Strength, Stamina.

The ship arrives at the port of Three Moons which is three large yellowish chunks that orbit each other, and provide a well-protected port in the space between them.  You are offered liberty for a half-shift.

PT
Oak
GM, 1440 posts
Wed 26 Nov 2008
at 07:24
  • msg #58

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

During the month, I also practice a few skills...

I attempt to take a coin, put it on the deck, and teleport it into my hand.  If teleportation seems to be supported in this universe, then I expand to variations, such as viewing the coin via clairvoyance and then teleporting it into my hand.

I also use my Sight to try and identify the locations of the emeralds aboard ship.

Since it seems that pirates periodically attack the Piper, I figure that if I am able to perfect the above skills, I could identify and remove the power sources from an attacking ship to neutralize the threat.

Also during the month, I regularly sing various psalms and hymns and spiritual songs as I perform my duties, not loud enough to be annoying, but loud enough for the words to be heard.  I also pray daily for my crewmates and for their salvation.

When we come within sight of Three Moons, I examine it both through my Sight and through Postcognition.

If Balsom is the one offering me liberty, I accept.  If not, I check with him to see what his wishes are.

If I leave the ship, I attempt to do so in Balsom's company, or in Kyle's company, or in the company of my deckhand comrades.

And as we look around, I do so with my Sight, and using my Telepathy to read the thoughts of the non-shipmates we encounter...
Playtester
GM, 6743 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Wed 26 Nov 2008
at 16:53
  • msg #59

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Oak:
During the month, I also practice a few skills...

I attempt to take a coin, put it on the deck, and teleport it into my hand.  If teleportation seems to be supported in this universe,
==No t-port.

 then I expand to variations, such as viewing the coin via clairvoyance and then teleporting it into my hand.

I also use my Sight to try and identify the locations of the emeralds aboard ship.

==You're able to accomplish this.

Since it seems that pirates periodically attack the Piper, I figure that if I am able to perfect the above skills, I could identify and remove the power sources from an attacking ship to neutralize the threat.

Also during the month, I regularly sing various psalms and hymns and spiritual songs as I perform my duties, not loud enough to be annoying, but loud enough for the words to be heard.  I also pray daily for my crewmates and for their salvation.

==Jonathan, a monkeyman with grey eyes floating above him in the aether, approaches you.

"Why do you sing of this God, when you should be worshipping the only two gods that exist, the Lady and Her Rival? Why do you not seek Wisdom instead of this folly?"

When we come within sight of Three Moons, I examine it both through my Sight and through Postcognition.

==In your postcog, you see that at one point it was a single rock, but that some shattering force was unleashed from an old ruin by an explorer.  The explorer did not survive his discovery.  However, it did make for the creation of a sheltered port, and a city grew up here.

There are some with similar Gifts, and a couple new ones. You see one man with a bloody sword over his head, and another with dice. You also see one man with a completely black aura.

If Balsom is the one offering me liberty, I accept.  If not, I check with him to see what his wishes are.

==He isn't. You check, and although he tries to hide it, you can see you've passed another test. He grants you liberty.

If I leave the ship, I attempt to do so in Balsom's company, or in Kyle's company, or in the company of my deckhand comrades.

==Kyle is quite willing to go with the deckhands. Balsom is going ashore with the other officers who get liberty.

And as we look around, I do so with my Sight, and using my Telepathy to read the thoughts of the non-shipmates we encounter...

==There's an awful lot of 'Sailors!! Shall I double, no lets triple the cost of my goods. Sailors have lots of money.' and 'Yes! I can finally buy that purple brocade for my dress! I'll be the prettiest lizard girl in the city.' but you also spot one 'time to get the boyos out. Sure to be some drunk sailors to knock over their head, and relieve them of their heavy bags of money the lazy louts have.'

Oak
GM, 1441 posts
Wed 26 Nov 2008
at 18:47
  • msg #60

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

When it is clear that teleportation isn't supported here, I turn my efforts towards practicing various flavors of telekinesis, with the ultimate goal of being able to use it to disable pirate ship propulsion systems.  If I can get to the point where I could physically rip the emeralds from the pirate machinery that houses them, so much the better.

-=-

I regard Jonathan with a friendly nod.

"I am glad you ask, friend Jonathan."

"The LORD God Almighty not only exists, but He has brought me here to you."

"Have you not wondered how I suddenly appeared on the ship, far from any island?  Have you not wondered who, or even what, I am?  For I am certainly not one of the Eight races."

"There is much knowledge and wisdom from the most ancient of days that is forgotten here, though some fragments remain.  It is still remembered that before the Eight races, there was Man."

"But before Man, indeed before this universe or any other was created, there was the Creator.  The Sovereign LORD that I sing of is He.  And He has brought me here to proclaim the Most Ancient Wisdom, the True Wisdom, which leads to salvation, and to eternal life."

-=-

I bow to Balsom respectfully as I thank him for granting me leave.

-=-

I look with interest at the previously unobserved gifts of those ashore, and attempt to subtly observe the individuals to gain insight into what the less obvious symbols mean.

And when I detect hostile thoughts, I subtly move over to Kyle, and speak to him discreetly.

"Don't look too obviously, but that one over there is planning to watch the crew with his gang, and rob those who become drunk and vulnerable..."
Playtester
GM, 6748 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Fri 28 Nov 2008
at 20:33
  • msg #61

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Your practise proceeds apace with the telekinesis with your learning how to do Fast TK and Marionnette TK and gaining practise with what you already have.

===========

"The Gracious Lady Athena built the universe out of her Wisdom, and her brother Ares, was much wroth with the beauty of her Creation so he shattered it in his jealousy." He speaks  in reply.

==========

The man with the sword above his head is well-respected it seems from the way others act toward him.  The man with the dice above his head sees you looking his way from over forty feet away, and with a genial smile strolls over.

"Hello, friend. Care for a game of chance?" He pulls out a deck of cards, and a cup with dice in it. "Low Threes, Oddsies, or my favorite, Under the Wire for dice. I also know a few games for cards, perhaps Pocka, or Bakjac?"

When you mention the would-be thug to Kyle, he turns his attention from considering a game of chance to telling the others quietly. And then suddenly they all pelt off in the direction of the thug with violence on their minds.

"Oh aye, thats a bad un'." The gambler says with a frown as he looks at the suddenly terrified thug who's looking for an alley to vanish down as vengeance charges down at him like a raging rhino.
Oak
GM, 1443 posts
Fri 28 Nov 2008
at 21:09
  • msg #62

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I follow after the crew, in order to monitor the fate of the thug, and attempt to keep him from fatal harm if possible...
Playtester
GM, 6756 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Fri 28 Nov 2008
at 21:52
  • msg #63

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

They beat the crud out of him, but hold off on serious maiming or death out of consideration to you.

Later, you're back at the ship, and Balsom hands  you a wrapped package.

"You carry the honor of my ancestors. Use it well."

And then in the midst of Balsom's cabin....

You wake up to see bones sprouting from the wood floor, muscles filming over them, organs popping into place from more bones, a skull being added, and then eyeballs dropping into place, and then skin and clothes surging on.

"Hello, I'm Tom Day, a fellow verser, I wonder if I could borrow you for a bit."
This message was last edited by the GM at 21:56, Fri 28 Nov 2008.
Day
player, 582 posts
Fri 28 Nov 2008
at 22:02
  • msg #64

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Tom recognizes Oak and seems a bit....extended.  That CERTAINLY wasn't what he expected the Ring to do.

"I am about to pound the crap out of something horrifically evil, and I can use all of the help I can get.  Mind assisting?"
Oak
GM, 1444 posts
Sat 29 Nov 2008
at 02:06
  • msg #65

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

Playtester:
Later, you're back at the ship, and Balsom hands  you a wrapped package.

"You carry the honor of my ancestors. Use it well."

I take the package with a respectful bow, and unwrap it carefully.

Then, deeply moved, I give another respectful bow.

"You honor me beyond measure.  Thank you."

Playtester:
And then in the midst of Balsom's cabin....

You wake up to see bones sprouting from the wood floor, muscles filming over them, organs popping into place from more bones, a skull being added, and then eyeballs dropping into place, and then skin and clothes surging on.

"Hello, I'm Tom Day, a fellow verser, I wonder if I could borrow you for a bit."

Day:
Tom recognizes Oak and seems a bit....extended.  That CERTAINLY wasn't what he expected the Ring to do.

"I am about to pound the crap out of something horrifically evil, and I can use all of the help I can get.  Mind assisting?"

I blink in surprise at the unconventional arrival, standing ready to attack the apparition if necessary, praying for guidance, until it becomes clear who the new arrival is.

"Tom Day.  I remember you.  And I would take my stand against evil however I may, wherever I am needed.  But I have certain commitments here that I have undertaken, that may not be cast aside lightly."

"How soon am I needed?  How long will I be needed for?  Will I be returned here afterward?  How long will elapse here in my absence?"

I turn to Balsom with a respectful bow.

"One of my brethren has need of aid, but I have committed myself here, to you.  Have I your sanction to go with him, and render my assistance?"

OOC: Did my month plus of training include katana instruction?
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:28, Sat 29 Nov 2008.
Playtester
GM, 6759 posts
novelist game designer
long-time gm
Sat 29 Nov 2008
at 05:27
  • msg #66

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

"It is a bit early for you to go on a lone quest, but how can I refuse a kami? Take him with my blessing." The six foot tall Panda bows to you Tom. "Remember your lessons. And when you hold your blade...remember how you washed the deck. But don't be arrogant, you have learned much, but far more is to come."

He sighs.

"I now become an old mother. Go, and you and I both shall remember that duty is as light as a feather and heavy as a mountain."

PT
Oak
GM, 1445 posts
Sat 29 Nov 2008
at 05:51
  • msg #67

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

I bow respectfully to Balsom.

"I will remember.  And, LORD willing, we shall meet again."

I turn my gaze to Tom.

"And, LORD willing, I won't drop you this time..."
Day
player, 588 posts
Sat 29 Nov 2008
at 05:54
  • msg #68

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

. o O Kami? Probably Japanese spirit dude of some kind.

Tom smiles, "I appreciate that.  The not dropping thing that is.  Don't sweat it.  Did you guys succeed?  Oh...er....right.  You know, I'm not entirely how to get us back, probably by invoking the ring again.  You ready?"
Oak
GM, 1446 posts
Sat 29 Nov 2008
at 06:05
  • msg #69

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

"We succeeded, by the grace of the LORD.  And by His grace, we shall do so again."

I turn back to Balsom.

"I've never seen you use your katana.  Could you please demonstrate for me?"

"And could you let me read your thoughts, so that I may glimpse some of your knowledge about how to use it?"

After this, I nod as I dig into my pocket.

"You have given me a great gift.  And so shall I to you."

"This is a small copy of the Holy Scriptures that I previously spoke of.  I have carried it much further than the Mary Piper shall ever travel, and I have no possession of greater value.  I give it to you.  May you read it, and find the path of the LORD and Savior Jesus Christ, and live forever."

I bow respectfully once again, and place my new katana at my side, as Balsom's is, and turn back to Tom.

"A few moments to retrieve my possessions from my bunk, and say a quick farewell, and I shall be ready."

And so I retrieve them, and quickly seek out my work crew mates to bid them farewell, and the Chirurgeon and the Captain, in case I do not return.

And I also say farewell to Kyle.

"Friend Kyle, I am sent on a quest, and am uncertain when I shall return.  In case I do not see you again, I wanted to say goodbye, and to ask a favor.  Please, may I have a feather of yours, to remember you by?"

And afterward, I quickly make my way back to Tom.

"I am ready."

OOC: Did I successfully get any more info on katana usage?  Did I successfully get a feather from Kyle?  :)
This message was last edited by the GM at 00:04, Mon 01 Dec 2008.
Day
player, 591 posts
Sat 29 Nov 2008
at 06:18
  • msg #70

Re: Oak Overwhelmed

When Oak is ready, he invokes the ring again.

If that doesn't work, he clicks his heals together three times.

If that doesn't work he looks extremely embarrassed.
Sign In