The four Forhorns--including their former companion, Dak--went to the stables and retrieved their horses and left Farnworth.  Still in the center of town were the tied up men who had intended to fight at Cannibal's command, along with several villagers and the party, who were still debating just how the men should be dealt with.

Vendavel went to the house that had been purchased by Eliphas, and after a short time, the four men who had been Eliphas' employees emerged, now wearing armor and weapons, along with traveling packs and accompanied by two leashed dogs.  These dogs looked like a wolfhound and a  mastiff.

---

There had been a 60 asil bounty for Eliphas.
This message was last edited by the GM at 13:35, Wed 14 July 2021.

"Well, I think its up to the town what to do with the prisoners.  For my part, I think we should bring the Anake into dock.  Spend a few days in town.  We can get supplies, spend a couple nights in the comfort of a bed in the Inn.  Have some good food and drink, and help out around here a bit.  They've obviously been under the thumb of these bullies, we could spend a few coins, help clean the dead out of the church.  Tonight, we can have some fresh fried flounder.  I can't return without the damn book, so I don't plan to return, maybe I'll run across a copy someday.  For now, I think we should plan to our next destination, maybe some exotic island, we are free men and women now and can plot our destiny, find our fame fortune out there somewhere,  I say we do it".

"We could ask the villagers if any have seen it," Westin offers gently and a bit guiltily referring to the Arn Mathematica. He can't help but feel bad. He never felt comfortable with Malachy and part of him wished he had never brought up the subject in the first place. All for hope in getting an interesting spell or two.

"Did you search Eliphas's home to make sure it wasn't there?" Westin asks Panatix. Westin was less than enthused to go there to search, especially if Eliphas decaying body was there but it was worth searching there. It was quite possible or even likely the ruffians would not know the value of the book. It might even be in plain sight.

"O agreewith Panatix! We have a fair bit of gol and we can help these villagers rebuild. Perhaps someday the villge will boom and it can then hep other villages! In the meatme, we should invstigate Eliphas house again," Storm says.

Wick nods, ”I wouldn’t mind having another look at Eliphas’ place, and a few days relaxing, getting a few drinks, good food, I’m in.”

He didn’t care much for the idea of mucking out bodies and the like, but he has a strong stomach, and maybe there was something interesting to be found.

”But if we don’t take Eliphas’ body back, how do claim the bounty?  And the longer we wait, the more it’ll stink and the it’ll look like Eliphas.  Besides, if we disappear for a day or so and then come back, maybe we find out about those guys, see if they circle back or not.”

Telemachus had been listening to all the ideas before nodding his head, "I agree.  Let's search the inn, Eliphas' house, Cannibal's house and when done I'll need a hand or two to head back out to the Ananke to bring her in safely."

He seemed to think for a moment before adding, "I...may...have a way to preserve Eliphas' body somewhat and give us a few days time to do this search followed by resting, recuperating and help these folk get back on their feet by lending a hand where we can to fixing things the thugs broke."

Lenelle nodded at Mac's suggestion.  "I think that sounds like a good idea.  I'm all for it, unless anyone's got any contrary opinions.  It might give me a chance to write and dispatch a letter to the church, as I promised to do, to request a new priest for them."   

"Let's start with Eliphas' house then.  I'm going to ask the village elder if they are capable of administering the justice that they wish to met out in removing the thumb of their dominant hand or if they need our help in that as well." remarked Telemachus before adding, "it's ugly business but without punishments for those that do wrong as determined by the society that is being lived in things often simply default back to might is right...and that's what Cannibal was doing.  Here they have at least a chance to start anew elsewhere but have to live with their prior choices in choosing poorly.  It will also give these villagers agency and purpose once again to have taken back their lives and live by their accepted rules."

Stepping away from where they were conferring almost in private Telemachus made his way to the elder, "So thumb is the punishment of choice?" he was verifying their desires, "Do you have the tools...twine to cut the blood flow to the minimum, sharp blade to remove it and flame and cloth bandage to cover along with will to met out their punishment or will you need us to do so for you as a neutral party?"

"I'll go help bring the Anake' in safe, who's coming with me?"

The eldest of the villagers nodded at Telemachus' questions, and replied, "We've agreed on that, and we can do it, but would ask that you help watch over them while they await the blade."

With that, several of the villagers moved to start preparing things for the execution of the determined justice for the men who had caused much harm to the small village.

"I'll go with you Panatix," Westin said quickly. He didn't want to be around when the men were punished, especially if their thumbs were to be cut off. He couldn't help but shudder. Such punishment would never occur in his elf village. Of that, he was sure but this was a human village, he reminded himself. It was their purview as to what punishment to administer and he certainly didn't know the full story of what all these men had done.

"I'm ready now," Westin adds.
This message was last edited by the player at 01:25, Tue 20 July 2021.

"I can do that," remarked Telemachus solemnly before looking to Storm, "Would you stand with me while they see to justice?  Afterwards I'll help remove those bodies from the church so Lenelle can bring it back to a small modicum of when she deems suitable for a place of worship."

Glancing to Wick who he knew was skilled with the Ananke and had looked uncomfortable with being around when fingers were being chopped off he also asked, "Would you aid Panatix and Westin with bringing the Ananke in Wick?"

Storm considers the various arguments and thinking about the importance of retribution and rehabitation as part of the legal process, declares to the villagers and ex villains in a loud voice,” Hear me! To the cohorts of Cannibal, you put up a brave fight for your master despite knowing that he is evil and terrorized the villagers. By the luck of war, you survived. Instead of death, the villagers chose to remove your thumbs. I hope you will reform and find gainful work in future. If you try to harm innocents, your lives will certainly forfeit!”

“Do good and turn from evil and you may live in peace.”

Turning to Tele, Storm says,” definitely! Let us ensure that these men do not die of blood loss.” Storm stands ready to heal wounds if needed.

Ooc: can I make a charisma roll to impress charm audience?

As Telemachus and Storm watched over the proceedings, the villagers worked through the grim process of removing thumbs from the thugs who had participated in the robberies and terrorization of the village of Farnworth.  In the meantime, Wick, Westin, and Panatix went out to bring the Ananke closer to the village.  Vendavel had not re-emerged from the house that had been Eliphas', while Lenelle considered what words she would use to describe what had happened in the village of Farnworth and the need for a true priest to attend to the needs of this village.

Then, when the Ananke was properly docked and the administration of justice had been complete--along with driving the thugs to the road from Farnworth, their weapons left behind in the village.

"That was Cannibal's house," one of the villagers said, pointing.  "He had some pretty mean dogs, they must still be in the house."

"Thank you for the warning." murmured Telemachus at the reminder.

With that grizzly duty complete he decided he might as well continue to do so in order to not have to keep coming back to it.  Walking over to Lenelle he asked, "There are bodies below that need to be moved out so the church can be made whole?  If so are they to be buried, burned or some other last rites to be done?"

Storm thanks the villager for the informtion. He draws his mace and focuses on the area for signs of evil.

Wick glances generally towards Eliphas' house, but then turns and towards Telemachus, "Sure, I can help with that."  If there was anything interesting to be found, he was sure the others would find it, and would share what they found.  Based on past events, it seemed like Eliphas was one to have interesting things lying about, if one didn't mind having blue hands.

The work done Telemachus cleaned himself up before collecting up the weapons that had been left by the expelled men and that the villagers hadn't taken with them.  He then gestured he was heading into Eliphas' house to start working out what they had, would be bringing back and what they would be leaving with Vendavel...

Glad to have missed the worst of the punishments while retrieving the Anake, Pan nods to Mac t lead on, he will help explore the houses, and even drag out the dead on the church to have them burned or buried.

"Are we going to Eliphas house first of Cannibal's?" Westin asks the group. He was eager to finish up searching the houses and leave the village behind him. He had always imagined fights would be worse than the aftermath but the situation here seemed reverse given what had gone on with the punishments. He looked forward and hoped they would leave this place by nightfall. Perhaps unrealistic, but it was his hope.

"I haven't had much of a chance to look around just yet," said Vendavel, opening the front door of the house.  "Haven't been upstairs yet, but this looks pretty nice."

Straight ahead from the entry was a stairway up, to the right was a parlor where there were several paintings on the wall, a pair of stuffed chairs near a fireplace, along with a long couch and side table.

To the left, from the entry was an open door, leading into a dining room.

"Whose house was this?" Westin asks.

"This house was Eliphas'," said Vendavel.  "Though I think I might claim it, as I help the villagers keep from being overrun again.  I'm going to keep looking around."

With that, she headed into the dining room, and from the sounds of it, had moved further toward the back of the house.

Storm looks around marveling at the opulence of the place. Remember that the owner was an unscrupulous person, Storm tries to detect evil.

"I'll check the upstairs, and I think that you should Vendavel.  And if those men work with you or for you and Cannibal's place is suitable perhaps they share that place so they have a vested interest in protecting the place." offered up Telemachus as he began to slowly ascend the stairs and see what could be found.

"They weren't staying," said Vendavel.  "Probably as well, as I don't want to be spending eight asil a day on them.  Kitchen's back there."  She hooked a thumb back toward the back of the house.  "Stairs going down, too."

With that, though, she moved to follow Telemachus upstairs.  At the head of the stairs, there was a door on the wall to the left, and a short hall to the right with two doors--one that would be to the left and one to the right (back and front of house, respectively).  The door at the end of this hall to the left (back of house) stood open.

Joining the others after bringing the ship into dock, Wick looks around with an eye for any valuables.  "Have a care Vendaval, Eliphas had a habit of putting in some nasty surprises in the last place we looked at."

Hearing the options and seeing Telemachus heading up, Wick shrugs.  "I guess I'll head down the stairs."

"I had thought Eliphas lived in that old house on the cliff," Westin says. "What did he do when he was staying here?"

Westin will look around for any types of books.

In his review of the downstairs, Wick noted that there were eight paintings in the parlor and two in the dining room, along with the place settings.  Moving downstairs, he found a room which had all the hallmarks of being a wizard's workroom, with books on shelves on the wall, a circle drawn on the floor, and a number of candles about.

"He did stay at that old house," said Vendavel, "though there were times when he traveled away.  He never said much about where he was going and doing, it just seemed likely it was all part of the business.  I suppose he was looking to move away from that old house after the operation was discovered there."

The room to the back of the house at the end of the hall had four unoccupied beds, although the smell of unwashed bodies was present, as well as the reek of death coming from the door opposite.

"This will need airing out," said Vendavel, wrinkling her nose as she opened the other door.

Here, she opened the door into a bedroom which featured a cold fireplace, a large bed, rug, desk, couch, and wardrobe.  On the rug was a sheet-wrapped body, and upon pulling back the sheet, it was clearly the face of Eliphas.

Holding her breath against the ghastly smell, Lenelle advanced in Ven's wake to have a look for herself.   And, sure enough...

She made Atu's gesture of blessing for the departed.   He'd been a conniving, self-serving man, but was also someone's son and family member.   She turned then, and paced toward the desk, seeing if it might open freely.

Storm announces he will sea5ch the ground floor. He moves slowly to inspect the nearest room. Just before entering each room, he will detect evil.

Westin shudders upon overhearing Vendavel's discovery of Eliphas corpse in the adjoining room. He had heard that Eliphas's body was likely still in the house but confirmation was nevertheless, perturbing. Wanting a little more space, he proceeds down the steps to join Wick in his search. "Eliphas's body is in a bedroom upstairs," he tells him. "Have you found anything?" he asks.

Upon spotting the books, he will head over to them and start taking a look what their subject might be.

"I'll leave the searching of the room for now to you two.  I'm going to make sure that my planned direction will work and that this is indeed the man..."

Telemachus walked over to Eliphas' body and knelt down to look at the man.  His nose wrinkled at the smell but come tomorrow that wasn't going to be a problem.  Still he knew that Eliphas had been a more than adept practitioner of magic and utilized both charming and illusions to keep his hold on things.  Pulling out his sling he pushed the leather against his nose and tied the ends behind his head to provide a counter smell of oil and leather to overwhelm the body's scent.  He then inspected the body closely to ensure that it was not disguised by illusion or other means and that the man that had fled wasn't in truth actually Eliphas.

Upstairs

Telemachus' examination of the corpse revealed that this truly was the body of Eliphas.  A full examination would reveal that the man had been, literally, stabbed in the back.  Also, there was tale-tell discoloration which spoke of poison.

---

Ground Floor

Storm moved into the parlor, finding that there were no emanations of evil in the vacated house.  There was substantial evidence that there had been dogs in the parlor, probably the two dogs that had been led away by the four men who had stated that they had been employed by Eliphas and were now away from the village, on a quest to bring a murderer to justice.

---

Cellar

The books on the shelves proved to be a number of treatises on magical theory, although no spell book was present.  What was present, however, was that elusive volume Ars Mathematica.

"I've found it! I've found it! Someone tell Panatix. The Arn Mathmatica is down here!" Westin calls out excitedly.

He was no expert on poison and while if he had been there when it first happened he might have been able to make some guesses now it was so long since he'd died that the poison was likely long gone past identifying at his level of skill.  Covering the body up again he stood up and removed the hastily thrown together sling-mask before walking over to where Lenelle was standing by the desk, "Find anything?"

He knelt down to look underneath the desk while awaiting her reply to see if there was a hidden cache as well as get a feel for any drawers real dimensions that might appear smaller when open.

The desk in the bedroom appeared to have been primarily used for correspondence.

Lenelle took the entire stack of correspondences, and displayed them to Mac. "Let's have a look through these, shall we?  And see if there's anything noteworthy.  But not in here.  That stench is unbearable."   

So said, she turned and walked from the room, and began sorting through to see what was there.   The sole language she knew was Calandian, but her literacy in it was perfect, from all the study and scribing she'd done as part of her training.

Assuming there is anything;  I may have jumped the gun --  I did say that I pulled open the drawer, or drawer(s). If there are any.   
This message was last edited by the player at 01:51, Thu 29 July 2021.

Storm searches the room for cupboards, drawers or doors to open.

"We can do that. It all smells almost the same to me right now between the bodies of those that were killed earlier, the soiling due to punishments and clearing out those below the church."

He didn't quite have the look on his face and in his eyes that he was dead to the world for the time being from what he'd seen today, but the wear was evident even if he was holding it all together.  A smile smile touched his lips, "Hopefully he doesn't write in Calandian.  The navigator I served and the captain worked studiously at making sure I wasn't properly lettered for some reason so I've only ever learned the most basic of the scrawl.  Gave me more time for all the other languages I learned during those travels though..."

Correspondence had been written in several languages--Calandian, Karakulian, and a number of languages which were unknown to anyone in the group.  The correspondence seemed to be innocuous on its face.

Downstairs, Storm found nothing to open, other than the door leading into the kitchen.

"This one is Karakulian..." offered Telemachus when he spotted that particular tongue, "but these?  I'm familiar with even Old Karakulian, both Elvish dialects, Gnomish and even the exceedingly quixotic Orcish written language and these others are none of those.  Maybe if we could read them all we could see if he's put in some sort of cypher and they are more than they seem but otherwise," he shrugged his shoulders.

Westin heads upstairs, looking for Panatix. "Does anyone know where Panatix is? I want to give this to him," he says holding up the Ars Mathematica.

Wick joins the others and glances over at Telemachus, "The paintings and the serving pieces might fetch a few asil if we can find a good buyer.  Where's that on the priority list?"

Pan hears his name and goes and finds Westin.  Staring at the book, he shakes his head, "Just when I give up ever thinking to find something, there it is.   Have you looked inside yet, I'd like to know what all the fuss was about?"

Lenelle nodded at Mac's words. "Aye.  Calandian is all I read, but I read it well. And I agree; let's take these documents with us, so they may be reviewed more thoroughly.  If we can have a complete picture as regards Eliphas' motives, it would be to the good.  He strikes me as the sort of man whose machinations might outlive him, in one way or the next." 

Storm detects evil before entering the kitchen

He nodded his agreement to Lenelle before turning his head to Wick, "Before all of this began we had spoken about finding a properly large settlement so that we could find buyers for what we have already of value that would be willing to pay much closer to their true price.  While we could sell individually if we can find a well off merchant or a noble if we sell the mass of them as a set it may garner us that better price."

Telemachus rubbed his chin as he glanced to the others, "That said I don't want to strip this place bare just to give us the most possible asil.  Vendavel will be staying here and she can use some of it to ensure that the townsfolk are protected.  I'm sure we can come to an agreement with her on things she could easily use to fund things here to help that goal while still letting us take some other things."

He shook his head towards Panatix and Westin while they spoke about the book, "If you can't detect magical traps or disable them I wouldn't.  You said this magician was bad news and if I was a powerful magician I'd leave some insurance policy on it...much like the trap that Eliphas set to make any who would take his things have a blue hand."

"I haven't," Westin says. "Figured I'd find you first. Would you be ok taking a look together? I'm very curious myself." Westin looks around for a table and chairs or anyplace that would work to review the book, other than the room with Eliphas's body.

Not finding anything upstairs, Westin says, "Downstairs is a table with some chairs. Do you want to go down there and take a look?"
This message was last edited by the player at 04:12, Sat 31 July 2021.

---

---

Westin and Panatix made their way to the dining room table to consider the mysterious, long-sought after, Ars Mathematica.

Storm found that there was still no evil in the otherwise vacant house as he made his way to the kitchen.  The kitchen seemed fairly well stocked with food, with a small, empty alcove which held a bed, possibly once having been occupied by a villager who had been persuaded to do the cooking.  There were, however, no personal effects which clarified that matter.  From the kitchen, the stairs down could be seen as well as the doorway into the dining room where Westin and Panatix were.

Upstairs, the others considered setting the correspondence found to a side until they had time to find someone who could both tell them what language some of it was written in and perhaps a translation thereof.

This did leave, however, another house--the one once claimed by Cannibal--as well as the inn where many of the thugs he had employed had made their home.

As the day wore on, it seemed that the women of the village had been emboldened enough to emerge and attack the inn with buckets of steaming water, soap, and scrub brushes.  Occasionally, clumps of moldy material were brought out and thrown onto the same pyre which had been built for disposing of the dead and the thumbs.

In the center of the village, there remained the weapons removed from the fighters who had once gone to Cannibal's aid and were now either deceased from the arrows Pathwyn had fired from the bell tower or had departed the village after the judicial pollexectomies:  three short swords, six long swords, a club, a dagger, a battle axe, and a battered old scimitar.

After some time of scrubbing, one of the women emerged with another short sword which was added to the pile.  The two women who had been inside the inn were driven out of the inn and encouraged to leave--although from the looks of it, the women had decided that it was better to go ply their trade in another place in any case.

The room in the basement of Eliphas' house proved to be a reasonably well set-up laboratory for a wizard's work, although the evidence was that the place had been rather recently set up and not much, if at all, used.  Other than the paintings on the walls and the dishes and silverware in Eliphas' house, it did not seem much had been left behind.

As the day began to draw to a close, the two fishing men came in with their catch of the day.  It seemed that perhaps it was time to cook up flounder and whatever other food might be scrounged up to go with it, and leave the search of Cannibal's house for the next day, when the dogs within would, no doubt, be extremely hungry.

Telemachus let the others in on his planning as the day came to a close, "I confirmed that I can preserve Eliphas' body for the journey back without him smelling the entire time.  I also have a way to handle the dogs in Cannibal's home...I'll need to get some fish for them to eat as they will be starving pretty well but that should make it even easier to handle them.  With a little luck I will be able to convince them that I'd be a better master than Cannibal and bring them on board the Ananke to guard her when we are away from the ship or accompany us if only a few are heading out and the rest staying on the ship."

Lenelle pitched in for a time, assisting the women with the cleaning of the inn.  Though she was there to help, not evesdrop, she did pay attention to any talk or gossip which might be relevant.

She later nodded at Mac's idea, seeing the wisdom of it.   Dogs were loyal animals, and if these were trained guard dogs, they could be a real asset if the idea worked.   As a druid, Mac was best suited to dealing with animals, and she presumed he knew what he was doing.

Pan nods, "Of course Westin, you found it after all.  Though one of us might want to stand aside while its opened, Mac's warning being all too likely, it could be trapped.  I'll take that risk, as I'm somewhat committed to it, but I'll keep my eyes closed and won't look at a thing till we can do so together."


Panatix is happy Mac has a plan for the dogs, he was fans of them, even though a bit scared of big dogs being so small himself.   It would be nice to have them onboard to guard the ship when they were off doing other dangerous work, one less worry.

"Ok," Westin says, now getting a concerned. "Just be careful! I'll run and  get Telemachus or Lenelle immediately if something bad should happen."

He'll back away and let Panatix open the book.
This message was last edited by the player at 11:07, Wed 04 Aug 2021.

Storm listens to Tele's idea and says," Well perhaps it is easier to buy some fish from the fisherman. While you are getting the fish i will search this place and meet you outside Cannibal's place in two hours?"

OOC: ANymore rooms to explore?

"Patience Storm.  In the morning after I have time to commune I'll have been granted the means to accomplish what I've suggested." remarked Telemachus with an understanding smile and nod.

His eyes flicked towards the sea, "I'll spend my night on the ship...it'll ease my soul after today's events," before looking back at Lenelle, "Some of those words, no many in truth, in Calandian written in those letters were not familiar to me.  Would you be willing to teach me so that I could understand better?"

While he was waiting for her reply to allow him to head for the Ananke to get some well needed rest, after some study perhaps, he paused mid stride, "Does anyone else require any healing?  I can bend some of tomorrows commune towards such if it is needed as well..."

---
ooc: Telemachus is good to go for the next day to do what he said but I don't want to hurry anyone else that has things that need to be done.

Despite the trepidation, nothing dramatic happened when Ars Mathematica was opened.

On the other hand, opening the book led to a horror of its own.



Additional pages continued in much the same vein.

At the inn, villagers were gathering and cooking and eating flounder.  Unfortunately, it seemed that they were rather light on any other supplies for food and drink, but they were willing to share the fish with the crew of the Ananke.

As it drew on toward night, there was a room in Eliphas' former house with three of the four beds available, as Vendavel had declared that the bedroom where the corpse was found was unsuitable until the stinking body was removed and the place aired--and possibly replacement of furnishings.  In addition, there was one room at the inn with two bunk beds (four beds in all) in reasonable repair, as well as room on the Ananke for those who wished to sleep there.

---

Not in this house.  The inn has also been thoroughly investigated/cleaned.  The only structure left is Cannibal's house.

"Aye," she told Mac, "I will assist you in that, it's not a problem.   And, I do not believe anyone else bears injury, at present.  Storm was the only one wounded during the battle. And he's been taken of, by Atu's grace."

She too remained aboard the Ananke that evening. Having no desire to sleep under the roof of an enemy, even if he had been sent to perdition.

"Hmmm, hmm, hmmm," was Westin's repeated comment as he reviewed the book, page after page. The strange symbols roused his curiosity, not the least of which why Malachy wanted the book so badly. It was code, that was for sure, but what did it mean?

"Is this making any sense to you?" he asks Panatix.

Intrigued as he is, he pays no attention to the other events and activities until he hears Telemachus and Lenelle intention to return to the Ananke for the night. He immediately leaps to his feet. "I'm ready to head back," he announces.

Despite his fascination with the book and the appearance that all is well in the village, he still has some doubts. He's not really sure all the evil has been ridden out. How did Hannibal come hear and convince so many to join him? What had happened to the village defenses? What had they known about Eliphas and why had nothing been done? They were disturbing questions but he was no one to rock the boat and start asking them. Best retire somewhere safe and especially as he knows he isn't very good at defending himself.

"Would you like to continue reviewing the book on the Ananke?" he asks Panatix in a hopeful voice.

Should Panatix return with him, he will review the book late into the night, forgoing sleep will he works to resolve the meaning of the tantalizing symbols.

Pan stares at the book for a bit before leaning back and shutting his eyes for a few minutes.

"Yes, Westin, let's go to the boat."  I have some thinking to do.

Amaya 7

As the evening wore on, the group went back to the Ananke for the evening.  The night passed quietly, and the first light of dawn started to break through the blackness of the night.

---

Storm and Wick haven't specified where they're overnighting.  Previously, Wick had stayed on the ship at Monteci.  At any rate, there's a hammock for everyone, as well as the other 7 beds (three in the room with Vendavel, four in the inn).

OOc: is there time to explore cannibal house and does anyone want to do so?

"I would like to explore Cannibal's house," Westin states. "It shouldn't take too long and we might find something valuable or quite useful."

He looks around at the others. Despite his statement, he only willing to go if some of the more heavily armed are interested in going as well.

“I want to explore as well! Anyone else wants to go?” Storm asks. “It will be good to ensure that we clear it out and Mayb we can lay claim or buy it over since we did take him and his cronies out.”

"What are you going to do about the dogs?"  Wick's good to explore the cannibal house if people are headed that way, but he didn't like the idea of killing the dogs if they didn't have to and that solution was waiting for the morning.

When time comes, Wick will seek out his hammock on the ship.  There isn't much in the way of good other places to sleep, the bed chambers of a slain wizard, a recently cleaned inn smelling of fresh soap and recently stirred dust, none of the local ladies seem to have caught his eye...

"I know of magic that will let them see me as a friend, and as long as I treat them well and train them over a few months they will stay that way.  Thus we won't have to kill the dogs and we will gain some protection for the Ananke." replied Telemachus to Wick, Storm and Westin who were anxious to hit Cannibal's house in the evening.

---

In the morning...

Telemachus finished his morning ablutions while then meditating with Atu and his facets within the earth and sky, sea and fire to grant him insight into the things he needed for the day.  Once ready with the others he brought along the fish for the dogs and readied himself to unleash the magics when they finally entered the home and saw the dogs.

“Agree we can avoid killing animals if necessary. Let us meet tomorrow for the trip,” Storm says.

The next day, Storm gets ready and joins his companions

Pan also rose earlier for him, spent some time studying his own tome, and then a few minutes glancing over the Ars Math book again.

"Ready to explore when you are."

"When I start the spell they will sit or stand there for near an hour while it is being woven.  You can search while I'm busy with them...just don't disturb them or there could be trouble that would break the spell and cause them to revert to attacking us..."

Telemachus headed to Cannibal's House when ready with the paltry offering of fish and some cut up apples from their own stores.  With a deep breath and looking at his fellow companions he readied his will to begin the spell once he had spotted the animals.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:53, Tue 10 Aug 2021.

Seeing Mac and hearing him, he adds, "Maybe we could stop by the inn on the way over, see if they have some sausages for the dogs, I'll buy".


Fish and apples, spell or not, Mac was going to get eaten, spell or no.

Lenelle watched, quietly, while Mac began to work the incantation. She didn't understand druids.

Truthfully, prior to Mac, she had likened them to the Elvish faith. Which she regarded as pagan and capricious, in its worship of sundry spirits and idols.

But this druid served Atu, like she did.  And she did not understand how that was possible.   Wielding edged, blood-letting weapons. And spells that bent plants and animals to his will, like some hedge-witch.

Yet, Mac had proven trustworthy, considerate, and wise.   As any Atuan priest should  strive to be.  That wasn't the complete checklist, however.   And so she continued to watch, with the intent to better understand...

Moving back ashore once morning came, the group made their way across Farnworth.  As it turned out, there was some salted fish and mutton, but not sausage.  Cannibal had apparently had sufficient confidence in the force of the fear that he had engendered that the door to the house was unlocked.

Approaching the door, there were some growls from within.

Wick makes sure to get some mutton for himself, maybe some flatbread with it and something good to wash it down.  But he had it pretty much wolfed down by the time they get to the house.  As Telemachus goes about his Druid craft, Wick spends his time looking over the place,  traps, hidey-holes, any nasty surprises.

When the door is opened, no lock, unvaried, no traps, Wick gets almost annoyed.  He hadn’t expected that and he didn’t like it when things didn’t go as expected.  Once Telemachus has the dogs enthralled, Wick will ease by them and start checking the place out.

Telemachus sounded calm but it was obvious on his face that he was still concerned about what was growling on the other side of the door, "Not that I question the ability of this working but if the dogs aren't actually dogs and something more...supernatural in form this won't work so I'd just ready a few weapons while I open this door and see about starting this incant..."

He waited long enough for anyone who desired to draw any weapons to do so before opening the front door and hopefully meeting the eyes of a few angry and hungry normal dogs that his spell would ensorcell for an hour even if it failed.  He'd received the insight and knew it was a lot of effort for potentially little return but he had to try as he didn't want to kill some dogs that had been mistreated by Cannibal...

Pan pulls out a few components, his best kind of weapon, just in case he needs to stun a few animals.

Westin says at the back of the group, ready to cast a sleep spell if needed. Hopefully, what's in the house are normal dogs. Even normal dogs can be pretty dangerous though.

When the door to the house was opened, those approaching Cannibal's house saw two small canines--almost identical to the form that Cannibal had taken upon death--growling and barking, rushing toward the open door.

Inside, it seemed that the whole house was a single room, with a stove in the middle of the place--it appeared that the canines usually slept by this stove, even though it was presently unlit.  Roughly constructed wooden furniture--bed, chairs, and table--were also present.

Storm asks hisfriends where to explore.

Telemachus spotted the two canines and began his incant.  The growls subsided and while they didn't come closer nor did they back away.  At some point in time between telling others to be prepared, opening the door and beginning his spell Telemachus had produced a silver sickle from somewhere and was slicing the sausage into small bits that he was tossing to the two canines.  After a few moments both he and the two dogs had moved out of the way of the doorway and he'd knelt down, still speaking in magical tongues keeping eye contact with the two who were watching him at every moment except for when they gobbled up bits of sausage or fish.  Slowly but surely he was inching forward as each morsel was delivered along with another stanza of the magic.

He had warned the others he was going to be busy for at least an hour so they were on their own as to searching the place...

Watching tele do magic impresses Storm. He knows some day he will be able to call upon holy magic. For now however, he has to rely on his weaponskill. Turning to his friends, he asks,”where shall we start first?”

In the mean time, he focuses and tries to sense the presence of evil.

After a quick looking around, he shrugs, "It looks pretty straight forward, I don't see much of anything worth our time.  I'll see if I can find any hidey-holes or anything booby trapped."  Wick moves on through the door, eyes already ranging about to case the joint.

"I don't think it matters much," he says to Storm offering his two cents. "We just need to be thorough. In addition to valuables, I would be interested in anything related to what it really was," he says referring to Cannibal and his reversion back to some type of canine. Westin shudders and then follows in after the others entering the house.

Pan will move a short way off and watch Mac work his magic.  He'll watch till he's sure the dogs are really entranced by the spell and then go off and help the others search the house.  He'll look around to see if the owner kept any dog food or dog treats they could take with them on the boat, and also for any books.

There were not many places inside the house--the stove and woodbox as well as under the bed.  No evil could be discerned here. as the animals seemed relatively peacefully intent on the food that Telemachus brought as well as paying attention to the young druid.

“Shall we search the stove, woodbox and under the bed? We can try to see if there are loose stones. I am certain this cannibal has some treasures or wealth hidden away. You don’t take over a town to be poor,” Storm says to his friends.

Wick gives a nod, "Sounds like a plan."  Wick puts his attention to loose stones or boards.

Lenelle too aided in the search.

Westin pauses as he hears Storm. He could imagine another reason for cannibal taking over the town but it was too horrible to speak of. Instead, he focuses on aiding the others in searching the house. He especially seeks to find any hidden compartments or secret doors as well as books of any type.
This message was last updated by the GM at 10:43, Tue 17 Aug 2021.

Searching through the house revealed a loose board under the bed, and in the area revealed, there were some bags.  Taking these out and counting them would reveal a total of 2,000 asil.  By the stove were a number of bones, most showing evidence of having been chewed upon--while some appeared to be sheep, others looked rather disturbingly human.

"Looks like they got rid of the bodies by feeding them to the dogs."  Wick observes to no one in particular.  Wick makes a nice little pile out of the bags of coins.  Perhaps some could be left here as seed money, and of course a nice little finders fee for the rest.

Storm is revolted by the bones. He makes a gesture and inorms his frends he inteds to bury the bones and give them the last rites- the human bones that is.

"Meanwhile pack the loot well! I suggest we turn over half to the villagers to help them? After all, we are not in need of it."

When Telemachus finally stood up he was right next to both dogs, petting their heads and giving them the last bits of sausage and fish.  Looking to the others he remarked after doing some very quick calculations, "If we divvy up one hundred seventy five asil to each of us, including Vendavel and Ananke, that would use up fourteen hundred.  Then we could still give the town elder six hundred asil to distribute amongst his people to give them some back."

The young Druid looked to Storm, "We are not in need at this exact moment but upkeep of a ship is very expensive.  So is full plate armour when we can finally find an armoursmith capable of making a suit for you.  So would be an eventual home built at a port for all of us to base out of and if we decided to go after different goals knowing we could always return to break bread and share stories.  We must look to not only the present but the future of us continuing to be able to help where and how we choose.  It is a constant cycle just like the seasons and if we wish to survive and thrive one needs to prepare."

He gestured around the place they were in, "Vendavel will have Eliphas' former home to base out of and can administer this one here.  If a merchant caravan or ship comes through trading and the inn cannot handle enough sleeping arrangements she can offer this place for a minor fee to cover upkeep and her efforts at keeping the town safe.  Should we ever come back through this way then it also ensures we have a place to rest if we don't want to stay on the ship."

Telemachus shrugged his shoulders, "If someone can think of a better spread or idea of things feel free to suggest or modify what I have.  But I want to also get back to Eliphas...no Vendavel's house and prepare Eliphas' body for transport as well as see if anything we've found is magical.  Then we can deliver his body and truly allow ourselves a new direction of our choosing."


___
ooc:
Suggestion is 175 asil to - Ananke (Group Fund), Lenelle, Panatix, Storm, Vendavel, Westin, Wick and Telemachus.
That leaves 600 asil to give to the village.
Vendavel takes over Eliphas' house and manages Cannibal's in whatever beneficial way she can and allows us a sleeping spot at either should we return.

Wick gives a nod of agreement with Telemachus' plan of divvying up the coin.  And the investment could pay off big in the long run, getting a friendly place to return to if there's need in the future.

"I'll handle the coin."  Wick volunteers the job for himself, "Unless there's any objections."  His first thought, head back to Vendavel's house to drop off 600 asil there, then return the rest of it to the ship.

Pan nods at Mac's suggestion,

"Mac, you have a good head for numbers, and a fair suggestion, and generous as well.  I vote to follow that plan."

"Westin, I've been thinking about this strange book.  I'm not sure what your learning and studies were like to learn your craft, but mine included a fair bit of arithmetic.  While wizards might conjure an actual...." looking around "....say, dog to defend you.  Us trained for illusion, must conjure an image of a dog.  To make it seem absolutely real, it must be properly proportional to its surroundings, from multiple angles, and to make long years of training quickly said, well, that all comes from numbers.  I've heard that Ars Mathmatica was a theory, that the entire universe could be explained by way of a complex set of formula's, and if someone understood those formula's, they might gain great influence over the world. Each formula was thought to be circle, and the circles linked, creating a chain that would make up the foundations of the reality that we exist in.  All of it, likely a madman's and fools fantasy, but....I think that is what this book is.  On our way back, I'd like to buy pen, paper, and ink and copy this book before turning it over to that lovely sweet wizard.  Just in case there is something in it worth learning.  Would you care to help in this foolish endeavor".  He says this last with a smile.

"That's a great idea Panatix," Westin says, his face bright with a smile. "I'll be glad to help. And you never know. Maybe one day you or I or both of use will be able to understand it better."

He nods as the others speaks about splitting the coins, agreeing to the division as well as Wick taking change of the money. The perilous adventures they have shared with the group not to mention the steps they have taken to protect Westin himself has resulted in a deep sense of trust in his fellow companions.

"They aren't cheap that's for sure.  I got a good deal on a blank tome, ink and quill at the festival and those three things ate up 550 asil." remarked Telemachus while rubbing the back of his head ruefully knowing that they were among the most expensive of the things he'd bought.

"I was going to use it as a logbook and journal after the existing one I have ran out but if you want when we get back to the ship you can take the three and just buy some replacements to give to me later."

He petted the heads of both animals, "Come on Castor, come on Pollux.  Let's tend to Eliphas' body so we can get him on the ship and then I can use the gifts I've been given for today to see if anything we picked up is magical in some way."  He then headed out for Vendavel's house who he was certain would appreciate the removal of the smell and body.

"I guess you are right... Money is afterall useful. Although I have quite a fair bit now. Anyonewants to join me in burying the dead?" he asks.

If nno one will join him, Storm will caryy out he needful task himself.

Wick shrugs.  "I'll help, Storm.  When we're done with that, I'll take care of the coin."  Wick wasn't squeamish about the dead, as long as there wasn't too much smell.  He wasn't sure about shovels or picks for digging a hole, but a pile of bones shouldn't need the same size grave as a full body would.

"Aye, the plan makes sense, and is very acceptable," concurred Lenelle, pausing to give the newly named Castor and Pollux each a pat upon the head.

"I will assist you," Lenelle said to Storm, none looking forward to it, but recognizing her duty as a cleric to see to it.

"Telemachus, will you make sure your dogs leave Jade alone," Westin says. "I don't want them chasing Jade or giving her any trouble. She's already quite frightened."
This message was last edited by the player at 16:56, Fri 20 Aug 2021.

A plaintive "Meow" comes from Westin's knapsack.

Westin squirmed uncomfortably. Though he liked the burying idea in principle, he really didn't want to volunteer. The idea that Cannibal was actually eating people still made him want to throw up and getting too close to the remains make him loose it."I appreciate you burying them," Westin finally manages to say.

"When burying them, if you decide to take a break, I'd be happy to go to the tavern and bring back some refreshments," he offers.

He paused in his walking to bend down and look both of the dogs in their eyes as he scratched under the chins and then beneath their ears, "Jade is a friend.  Just like you are so I'll need you to behave around her and not scare her."

Telemachus' eyes flicked up to Westin, "They will need to smell her scent to know who she is and see her so that I can reinforce the request.  Castor and Pollux were influenced by the magic but they are not familiars and I can't read their minds so I have to use regular training ways combined with the spell to teach them what I want and how I want them to behave."

“Thank you my friends,” Storm says. Turning to Westin, he says,” yes that will be helpful for all of us. It is almost lunch.”

He the. Proceeds to find some clean cloth, failing which he will use the canvas he has to put the bones on. After placing the remains on the cloth, he asks his friends to assist in bringing the canvas he to a clearing outside the house.

He then digs a hole. Then he chants the prayer for the dead, asking Lenelle to offer hers as well before burying the remains. Finally he makes a simple marker from one of the wooden items in cannibal house to mark the burial spot.

Wick moves in to help Storm arrange the bones on the cloth.  Hoe doesn’t love it, but doesn’t display any squeamishness.  Helping to move the bones out of the house, he helps Storm dig the hole.  While wanting to help, his pace is a bit slower than Storms, so he doesn’t end up doing as much of the work.  Wick makes no issue of Storm’s prayers, but speaks none himself.  The dead are dead, beyond reach of his words, or so Wick believes.

With the work done and the observances observed, Wick moves to clean up a bit.  Then he looks around for Westin, ready for some refreshment.

Lenelle spoke after Storm did:

"Atu, Lord of lords, hand of justice and of mercy, guide these to eternal rest. Let light perpetual shine upon them. May their souls climb the celestial stair, to reside forever in peace, in the meadows of Heaven.  Blessings and grace upon all." 

After which she aided in finishing the work, keeping her thoughts to herself.

Once the bones removed from Cannibal's house had been interred, there remained the matter of disposition of the coins and Telemachus' plans to handle the corpse of Eliphas.  It was nearing mid-day, and Vendavel emerged from her newly-claimed house to head for the tavern in the middle of town.

From the tavern, an aroma of a lamb-and-turnip stew grew in strength, suggesting that the food was quite near ready for consumption.

Telemachus stopped Vendavel on her way to the tavern, "I'm going to take care of Eliphas while you're out."

Heading over and into the house Telemachus went up to where he knew he would need to go. Walking into Eliphas' old room Telemachus moved over to the sheet coving the man's body and  carefully he peeled back the covering so that the corpse was revealed an the smell increased.  Moving up to his head he pulled out his silver sickle and cut a small tuft of hair from his head while uttering, "Lifeblood hot sustains us, lifeblood cold is no use any longer."

Setting down his pack he pulled out the small chest that held the logbook and ink and upon opening it took the quill and his gathered mistletoe.  Piercing a berry with the quill he drew a symbol on the mans forehead with the liquid given from the berry.  Further down on his chin he did the same and again at the base of his throat.  Moving further down he used the sickle to cut his clothing again in the shape of yet another symbol.  He then went all the way down to his feet before cutting open the ends of his pants to use the quill once again, making markings on both ankles.

Stepping back he murmured again, "Lifeblood dries over time and is blown away like the sands of the desert.  Readying the body for the next life if She deems it worthy..."

Bringing the sickle down he gently touched the mark he made on the forehead and the others could see the body go from swelling from decomposition to deflating in on itself.  The skin slowly pulled taut on his face as if he had been in the desert and the hot suns had bakes away all the water in his body leaving nothing but a dried, desiccated and mummified body.  Now with bright red symbols everywhere he had made the marks both with quill and with sickle as if the shape imparted the marking through his clothes.  Kneeling down he blew on the forehead and the red marks disappeared as if he was blowing sand away and it repeated itself down the body without him having to move from his first spot.  Pulling the sheet taught on the floor the now very light body of Eliphas was easily picked up by Telemachus and gently placed upon it for him to wrap up tightly...ready for transport.

Glad to have the burying behind him and somewhat cleaned up, Wick catches a sniff of the lamb and turnip stew.  The mutton and flatbread had served him sell, but that was hours ago now and he'd been doing some sweaty work since then.  A hot bowl of soup with a bit of bread and lots of cold ale would go down right proper after all of that.

"I'm heading for the tavern, anyone coming?"

Tavern caught his ear, Pan follows Wick where he is going.

"I'll go," Westin volunteers. "The aroma coming from there smell fantastic."

After the arduous task of clearing up the bones, Storm sits, takes his bottle and takes a good gulp of water.

Turning to his friends, he says,” Thank yiu for making this task easier! Care for some water? How about we head to the tavern; find our friends and have a hearty meal?”

After Telemachus had finished his ersatz mummification of the corpse of Eliphas, he also made his way to the tavern.

Inside, the others--who had avoided any involvement in the process Telemachus had employed, choosing instead to have a superfluity of numbers busy with entombing the bones found in Cannibal's house--could be found eating their midday meal.

Vendavel had preceded Telemachus to the tavern, and she waved him over.  "Did that process work?" she asked.

---

Any last actions in Farnworth?  Otherwise, after eating, should just need to collect Eliphas' corpse and return to Monteci.

"It did.  You won't have to worry about the smell any longer and his body is wrapped for transport.  Once I'm done eating I'll go pick it up and take it to the ship." replied Telemachus as he reached down to scratch Castor and Pollux's ears again.

"Wick's got coin for you and for the Elder if he hasn't given it already to you.  We want you to hand the Elder what we're giving back to the town since you're the one staying.  He can apportion out the money to those robbed and taken advantage over and should afford you plenty of good will." he commented as he drank some water that he'd asked for.

"Like you mentioned yesterday, live out of that house and make it your home.  Use Cannibal's old place as a backup 'inn' should there be any traders that come through and there isn't enough space here at the inn.  Or storage for foodstuffs if the village needs it...charge whatever you feel is fair...or use it to help you keep the town safe.  Just keep it in good upkeep so if we come on through we have a place to rest again outside the Ananke."

"Aye," Lenelle nodded, "Let's go to the tavern."

After a good meal at the tavern, it seemed there was little to do--other than collect the now dessicated corpse of Eliphas and return to Monteci.

The coins apportioned to Vendavel and for the village were duly turned over to Vendavel, and after the meal she could be seen trekking out to the farm on the edge of the community where the village elder dwelt.

The others returned to the Ananke, stowing the unusually light body of Eliphas, and made their way back to Monteci.  As they traveled, there was a light rain and mild winds--not a true storm, but the gentle passing of a front.

As they reached Monteci, they could see that the rains did not deter the fishermen from working.  Along the street where the bathhouse was, a crew of men could be seen working at cleaning the ditches and fixing loosened cobblestones.

Arriving at port, it appeared the hour was None, or perhaps a little later.

As the reach the port and dock, Westin finds the courage to ask a question that has been burning in his mind.

"I've been meaning to ask. What were the plans for Eliphas's spell book?" Westin says. "Would let me keep it keep? Or at least give me time to copy some spells from it? It's true, I'd prefer to keep it as there are some spells I can't quite make out though I think if I continue with my studies I'd be able to understand them sometime in the near future. So even if you want to sell it, maybe you'd be willing to wait?" he asks hopefully.
This message was last edited by the player at 02:04, Mon 30 Aug 2021.

After finising his meal, Storm walks back to the ship wit his friends. When he hears Westin's questions, he thinks it make a lot of sense.

"Yes, I agree with you Westin. It will be good to learn if you can learn anything from the book."

Telemachus listened to Westin’s question and smiled slightly as he tentatively danced around.  He put out his hand to reassure the elf, “First off I see no reason to sell a spellbook.  Since you can copy spells into your own and over time learn them all why don’t we keep it as part of the Ananke’s Bounty to serve as a tome for any who join us properly.  I’ll show you the secret compartment we use for the valuables and when you’re not pouring over it scribing or trying to learn the spells just leave it in there.  You may even want to transcribe your own into it so that it could serve as a backup for worst case scenarios,” he glanced over, “We may want to do the same for yours Panatix.”

As the Ananke pulls into a slip in the Monteci harbour, in the mid-afternoon, those on deck cannot help noticing the person jogging from the harbour master's office toward the ship.

As he gets closer, he is obviously an elf, but it is the shock of long reddish hair that makes him stand out. He drops what looks to be a backpack, a sword, and a bow wrapped in a cloak on the wharf, as he calls for the mooring line to be thrown to be secured.

He looks about the people on deck, obviously a little perplexed, and then simply calls out, "Ahoy, Captain. I'm Wyn, Fintan the harbourmaster said you might need help unloading some cargo...I could use some coin...and I know my way around ship...and I'm not scared of hard work."

Wyn then spots Westin looking over the side, he gives a short, but formal bow, [Language unknown: Wead'ecev. U in Ure chhiasen ei trhe Tronporo yin le aidi Redndesti. Loes tante inece con ad be beilus asckur, larentearerssta, day st inwail.]

As he waits for a response, from the captain (and perhaps the elf) he ties off the first mooring line, rather expertly, then moves to the bow of the ship and does the same there.

At this close distance, the group can see that Wyn looks to be quite tall, for an elf, nearly Telemachus' height, and looks much stockier than any elf they have met. His clothes look to be cotton or linen, but cut in elven fashion, perhaps more loose than typical.

---

I thought I would get this long-winded post up quickly, but if there are on-ship discussions to take place before the ship is moored, I am sure the chronology can be accommodated!

Fingers crossed that Captain Telemachus doesn't send Wyn packing!:-)

Telemachus looked at the others on the Ananke for a moment since they were an eclectic crew...four human looking folk of which two looked to be skilled at sailing the ship, an elf with a cat, a gnome and a pair of...dogs.  Glancing back to the elf he responded, "We're not exactly the normal ship and crew here Wyn but we can discuss it.  We do have one thing that needs off-loading but that cargo is going to Labras.  Do you know the man and where he is?"

After helping bring the Ananke into port, Wick makes sure they're tied off and watches the newcomer heading towards them at a sprint.  "'Ware to port." he warns.

As the fellow makes his intentions known and after Telemachus speaks up, Wick gives a chuckle.  "You seem mighty anxious friend, what's your hurry?"

Lenelle stood quietly and observed, as this red headed elf hailed them, and made his proposition.    Compared to their mage, he was a veritable giant. Her head tilted faintly while she observed, and she frowned just a little. Elves...

Westin had been the first she'd ever companied with, and gotten to know, somewhat.  And, he had defied her expectations.   But this new arrival...this one was no gentle scholar.  This one was a warrior.  A killer.   Like my father, the thought came unbidden.

Her hand strayed to Atu's symbol, reflexive gesture, before lowering as she then folded her arms.   She said nothing...but watched and listened, waiting to see how Wick's more pointed question would be answered...

Wyn's looked a little crestfallen when advised there was only one piece of cargo to unload. "I don't this Labras, but I will find where he is."

The elf looks like he is about to sprint off again, but stops short when Wick calls out.


In spite of the loss of potential work, he can't help but break into a smile. "As I said, my purse is light and I was hoping to earn some coin unloading your hold.

But, I'm sure Fintan can tell me where to find him, and I will be happy to carry your delivery to him."

Wyn catches sight of the dark-blonde haired woman looking at him, appraising him, judging him? He gives her a smile, and a wave and then sprints to the harbourmaster's office.

It doesn't take the elf long to return. "Fintan has given me directions to Labas. So what exactly is it that needs to be delivered to him?"

"A body." remarked Telemachus as he watched the elf curiously.  In some ways it may have even looked humorous when one had time to look at the Captain of the ship closer and realize just how young the man looked as did others as well for what sounded like bounty hunter business.

"When we inform Labras as to the particulars you'll get the gist of things and then we can all retire to the inn for some food.  Talk and see if you are going where..." he glanced around at the others on the ship, "...ever we are going after we wrap up our business here."

Glancing to the others he added, "I'm going to log our arrival with Fintan and then head to Labras with Wyn here in tow with Eliphas' body.  Come along, do some shopping, visit Niall at St. Magnus since I know you'll want to leave that letter with him Lenelle...just meet up in the inn if we split for the moment so we can decide our next path."

"That's a great idea! Thanks Telemachus!" Westin says joyfully. When there is time, Westin will go down and deposit Eliphas's spell book in the secret compartment. Later, they arrive at the port.


Westin looks up with surprise and then a smile break out on his face. [Language unknown: Nockcest triotr proereter! Wi a Inanar adeiekie p are Caol Encmencon ], he says formally and then bows. [Language unknown: Pa un enma haich intng ek Elneho'unnd. Not oer con meseil hi ss vor p hapl thi butet ec sa all hatdayess t ousounrea. ]

Once Wyn had departed, Westin says, "I think Wyn would be a good addition to our group. Though adventurer warrior elves are rare, those there are often quite powerful. I bet if he had been with us during that fight we had with Eliphas, we would have won."


"I need to go shopping Lenelle if you want some company before you go there," Westin offers.

Wyn is obviously taken aback. "A dead body?" he blurts out.

He quickly tries to regain his composure, "Sorry, I was expecting to be hauling crates or barrels...but a body will probably weigh less."

Wyn picks up his belongings from the wharf, he slips a baldric carrying a longsword over his shoulder, and clasps his cloak around his neck.

"Captain, would it be all right if I left the rest of my gear onboard while we make the...uhhh...delivery?"

Pan and Wyn had spent countless hours taking turns copying over the Ars Mathmatica book.  On arrival, Pan nods to Wyn.

"I need to buy Mac a new book, and some ink and quills, and I'll  pick up a few for us to use in the future as well.  Once we are settled, I need to take this book back to the friendliest wizard in a tower"

Before Wyn returned he nodded to Westin, "I've heard the legends and the rumors, and he looks to be knowledgeable about the ship which would make Wick and my own work far easier onboard Ananke, but like I said to him...we're not a normal ship with the crew getting paid by myself as the Captain based on our hauls.  If all he is looking for is coin to fill his purse regularly we may not be what he is looking for."

Reaching down he rubbed the tops of the two dogs heads that had been with him since casting the spell that opened them up to his friendship.

"Yes a body, and much lighter.  It has been prepared akin to the rituals in Wamuru and has been mummified for resistance to rot." nodded Telemachus.  He then gestured to the deck of the ship where a few of the chests they had taken were strapped down to carry things they might need regularly, "If you want to yes, that chest is empty at the moment and Castor and Pollux will be guarding the ship while we are away."

Reaching into a pocket he pulled out two small pieces of dried meat to give to each and murmured "Guard the ship for me Castor, Pollux.  There is more when I return if you do a good job and keep strangers from coming on board."

He then led Wyn to where Eliphas' body had been stored for travel and once the curious porter had collected it up he saw first to Fintan to register and leave coin for berthing another week before heading to Labras to finish the business.

Wick makes a point to watch how Wyn reacts to the specifics of their cargo.  He smiles a bit at the fellow's reaction, but all things considered, he's handling it rather calmly.

"No questions about why we'd be looking to haul a body around the docks?"  The fellow either needed coin in a bad way or was rather used to dealing with the seedier side of life.  And one in that big a need for coin probably would've sold off that toad sticker at the least.

Lenelle had given the newcomer elf a brief wave when he'd hailed her.   She listened to the interchanges, understanding only those uttered in Calandian.   The Elvish dialect was as opaque and incomprehensible as it was melodious.

Westin seemed swayed by the newcomer.   But, she was not convinced, and planned to keep an eye on this one.

She was a little surprised when the mage asked to accompany her.   But she nodded readily enough;  "Certainly.  I will indeed visit St. Magnus' and Father Niall, as Mac suggests.  But, I don't mind making a small detour.  And there are a few items I'd like to get, as well." 

Also, she could solicit Westin's impressions of the new one.

"I believe Colin's General Store has the ink supplies I need," Westin says to Lenelle. "Wick, we're going to get some ink at the General Store. Want to come along?" Westin calls out.

After depositing his belongings into the chest, Wyn throws the wrapped corpse over his shoulder, and adjusts it to balance. "To be truthful, I am very curious about why you are delivering a corpse to Steward Labras, and I am even more curious to know who it was.

But, it's none of my business right now. And Fintan assured me you were an honest lot, not pirates or smugglers.

And while I as hoping to earn a day's pay unloading...regular cargo...I hope that carrying this...irregular cargo into town will at least earn me enough for dinner and a room at the inn.

And then I will be on the lookout for more work tomorrow."

He gives Wick a nod and a smile, and follows Captain Telemachus off the ship.

Wick gives the newcomer a grin, it was a fair answer.  Wick glances at Telemachus.  ”You god with the bounty boss, or need me to stick around?”

If Wick is not needed elsewhere, he’s happy to take Westen up on his invite to join them.

Telemachus shook his head, "I'll be fine.  Head off with the others if you want, have some fun...I think we've earned it.  We'll meet at the inn later for dinner and lay out our plans."

He glanced over at Wyn and nodded as he began to walk towards Fintan, "I'll cover dinner and the inn for the night. Not your business now but perhaps after we talk some more we will find we appreciate each others company and perhaps we'll come to an arrangement of some sorts. We could use someone familiar with a ship for where I practically grew up on them and Wick has spent plenty of time on them...the others have spent far less time."

Tipping his head towards his cargo he added, "He was the head of a smuggling ring that we broke up around these parts when we stumbled on them unexpectedly.  Before we could catch up to him and bring him back in alive someone else stabbed him in the back with a poisoned blade.  The Steward will still want to see that the Lord won't have troubles with him anymore though so here we are."

Walking off the boat and down the slip to Fintan he smiled, "Harbourmaster it's good to see you again.  Mark us for another week," he pulled out the coin from his jacket to hand to him what he had previously for the same amount of time, "we might be shorter or longer depending on the Steward.  Hopefully things have been nice and quiet since we left for you?"

"It's not a problem," Lenelle assured Westin.

"I know you really wanted that book.  I'm glad it's made its way into your hands, at last.  You seem to be more responsible with your occult skills than some of these mages we've met.  Who was, or is, your master, if I may ask?"   

"Keldin the mage is my mentor. He lives on Walrun, a town on a mostly human occupied island some miles south of this one. He's a very decent, hard-working half elf, very responsible with his magic," Westin says.

"Do you mind if I tell you how I become his apprentice? I was, at the time, living in Walrun working as a cook in a tavern the he liked to frequent, perfecting my cooking as I like to say. Now Keldin, he's a right sided half elf and, as is common, had originally grown up in an elvish community before living a life as an adventurer. He eventually settled down in Walrun but missed authentic elvish cooking. When he found out his cook was elven and that I could cook authentic elvish meals for him, he was delighted. Of course, he had to meet me. We soon became friends and after a time, he told me he wanted to bring me on as an  apprentice to do some of the more mundane work related to magical studies. I was thrilled and immediately accepted and in a short time, perhaps only 4 or 5 years, I graduated to become a full fledged mage!", Westin says cheerfully with a smile.

Storm arrives on the ship with his companions. He deposits his new found asils in his chest, bringing enough money to donate at the church.

“Did I hear anyone saying shopping? I’ll like to come along too! Have to go to the church to donate my share to keep the church growing!” He says solemnly.

---

Now that they had returned to Monteci, several of the group made their way down the main street of the village to go shopping or otherwise make use of the coin that they had gained.

Others chose to go with Telemachus and Wyn--carrying the unusually light burden of a dead man--when they were hailed by Turlough, the man who headed the watch and maintained the jail.

"Colin's General Store is that way," Westin said gesturing. "They should have the magical ink I need," Westin said excitedly. "This will be the first time I've added spells to my spell book."

"After we're done shopping, I'd like to accompany you Lenelle to your church and say hi Father Niall. I think he would be interested in our journeys."
This message was last edited by the player at 15:17, Sat 04 Sept 2021.

"Good morning Turlough.  How are you doing and is Labras around?" he tilted his head to the wrapped package that while vaguely body shaped was much thinner than one would normally be, "I need to speak to him about wrapping things up with that reward among a few other questions I had for him as Steward for the Lord."

"Doing quite well," said Turlough, and he waved over a passing child, dropping a kipper as he asked the child to bring Labras here.

"That looks like ... well, almost like a body," said Turlough.  "And I know Labras had some matters he wished to discuss with you, as well.  A few bits of useful information that we got from those men you brought from the house outside our village."

"Good to hear friend."

Looking to the wrapped package he nodded as he retold the same he had just told Wyn and he would likely once again tell Labras but he didn't mind, "Someone got to him before I could but they fled and I was left with the body.  I didn't think you or others would want the accompanying smell of him since it was going to take a few days to get back here so I prepared his body in the same way that they do in Wamaru preserving him in such a way to resist any deterioration."

Wyn nods to Turlough, "Good to meet you Master Turlough...Wyn na'Keerla at your service.

Is there anywhere in particular you want me to put the mortal remains of Eliphas?"

Lenelle nodded, smiling some at Westin's bubbling enthusiasm.

"That is a nice story," she acknowledged.

How different a half-elf of the right-side's experiences must have been from her own.  Though she had no regrets;  her situation had brought her to Atu.

She smiled again as he spoke of the ink.  She too was a spell caster, but a wholly different sort.   She had no book, but rather prayers and supplications.

"Sure, Westin; let's go in and get the ink you need, and then visit Father Niall.  I think you will like him. He is kind, and a man of learning, like yourself."

Walking with the companions, Storm was retrospctive. From a few slaves, these people havegrown and developed into independent peop;e who do their part to bring goo and order t the world.

Listenin to Westn and Lennelle's exchange, Storm chips in," Yes I think a visit to the priest is useful.I find him a rather pious man who isa good example to us all."

Westin looks like he is going to say something but then doesn't. Then he looks again like he's going to say something. Finally he says, "I did met him with you and the others. He gave us healing potions, remember?" he says gently. "You had been badly hurt..." he says, concern on his face.

She had been the most grievously hurt of the party members in that initial fight with Eliphas. He suddenly wondered if there could be some negative aftereffect. He had heard strange stories of humans sometimes forgetting extremely stressful or life threatening events. Up until now, he had not even considered the possibility that she had not made a full recovery. She had seemed so confident and strong and had been fearless in the fight with Cannibal. Now, he wasn't so sure. He knew so little of this area in regards to humans. He thought about for a few moments and then silently made a note to himself to mention it to Father Niall in private. He would know what to do.
This message was last edited by the player at 13:29, Mon 06 Sept 2021.

"Let's just set him here," Turlough--a tall man, now probably close to 60, with hair which might have once been red but now was something of the color of sand--replied, leading the way into his office.  "I don't know much about what they do in Wamaru, but if it keeps him from stinking, it seems a good thing."

The office, which seemed to be more of a place for gathering to give the watch instructions, was lightly furnished with a desk and several chairs in rows.  The chairs were easily pushed out of alignment to leave a place for the wrapped body.

---

The group heading off to shop had, by now, reached Colin's shop, where the goods were still well-organized.  From the looks of things, he was not exclusively stocked with goods that might be of use to those who adventured, but that perhaps was not to be unexpected in a small village like Monteci.

"Oh yes, that's right.  You did! I was pretty bad off at the time.  In and out of consciousness. My memory of that experience is patchy.  The mind protects itself that way, I've been told."   

While Westin went about procuring his ink, Lenelle too began looking for a small list of items.  Beginning with spools of thread; particularly in blue, silver and gold, though yellow and white might substitute for those fancier colors.

"Hello," Westin says to the shopkeeper with a smile. "I'm looking for some ink. Some rather special ink. Ink that can be used to for a mage's spell book. Do you carry that? And if so, how much per bottle?" he inquires.

He hoped he wouldn't be assumed to be associated with Malachy. That mage had given Westin the creeps and it seemed some of the other townspeople was well. Hopefully the shopkeeper knew or at least would at least open to the idea that not all mages were as creepy as Malachy.

Wyn easily slings the corpse to where Turlough points. The elf brushes off his shoulder, as if flecks of death had someone penetrated the cloth wrapping.

He remains standing, until Turlough and Telemachus sit first.

A tiny smile crosses his mouth at a wayward thought, ~Mum would he very happy that I remembered my etiquette!~

Storm has little need for stationery or embroidery items. However, he has a need for things that’s useful to warriors. He politely asks the shop keeper,” Do you have anything in the way of unusual swords or exotic Armour that some one might have sold you?”

While Lenelle perused the store, she could find threads in blue, yellow, and white, but not gold or silver.

Colin had greeted the group happily enough, although he definitely looked nervous at Westin's request.  "I have some that might be suitable, if the spells are simple in nature, for thirty asil for a bottle," replied Colin, looking poised to dodge behind the counter.

He looked over to Storm, then, with a rather emphatic headshake, replied, "No, sir, I don't have dealings in such goods.  I don't suppose anyone would ever come to Monteci to sell exotic armor, and I've never heard of a sword that was unusual."

After the chairs had been moved, Turlough went to sit at the desk, and a few minutes passed before Labras entered the office.

"Good to see you again," Labras said to Telemachus.  "We did learn a few things from the folk you brought in, and it touches on another task I would like to ask of you and your crew.  I understand that you've brought back the body of Eliphas?"

Telemachus had seated himself after Turlough had while also restraining his tongue going into the details of a Wamuru death ritual that the man likely had no interest in outside 'if it doesn't smell it's good by me' sort of thought.  He'd also gestured to Wyn at one of the extra seats since he was going to be with them at least till the end of dinner.  When Labras finally entered he stood and nodded, "It is good to see you again as well."

Walking over to the sheet he began to peel back the section by Eliphas' head and spoke before it became visible, "We did.  We tracked him over to Farnworth where his efforts led him to cross the wrong dark soul who stuck a poisoned dagger in his back and fled before we had gotten there...to save the rot and smell I performed a ritual not unlike what is done in Wamaru to remove the water from the body and preserve it...so his body is quite a bit lighter and sunken in."

Once the face was visible it was obvious that he had mummified the man somehow and the skin was tight over his skull and his clothes loose but outside the hair being longer it was Eliphas, "On the other hand we were initially stuck dealing with a individual named Cannibal and his gang who had come into town and taken it over from the people there to make it his personal fief.  Brutish fellow that we only realized after they attacked us was some sort of...I don't know honestly...he was a crude man but when he died his body cracked and ripped and changed into that of a large jackal.  It feels like shades of the legends about werewolves but he wasn't that obviously..."

He seemed to shudder as he remembered how close they were to the man, "...we prevailed with help from others and returned the town to the people so we could claim Eliphas' body.  The town elder issued justice on the living men for their crimes and took their thumbs as punishment and the dead were buried except Cannibal's now jackal body that we burned to ash.  Thankfully no one of my crew was bitten by him or scratched or anything else that could cause worry that something worse lay festering..."

He rubbed his head a bit sheepishly as he began to wonder if he'd said too much or not enough, "It's been a busy few days to be sure..."

With a sigh at the past and a small smile and chuckle at the future he added, "...but you said another task?"

Labras listened attentively to Telemachus' telling of the things that had happened since they were last in Monteci, peering at the face of the dead man.

"First, I suppose, we should close off the first matter," said Labras, opening the purse to count out sixty asil.  "It matters little whether it was your hand or another's, but that we know he won't be gathering up a new group to cause trouble for our town.  Did you learn what happened to the man ... what was his name ... Dak, wasn't it?"

Pan has been thinking and thinking, following along, quietly, but puzzling over his upcoming meeting with Mal the wizard.

At the shop, he looks around carefully for the ugliest weirdest thing he find in the shop, and then buys it.

"4 ink bottles for simple spells please," Westin says pulling out 120 aisle. "I have a ways to go before I can cast anything more complex. I'm curious. Is there much demand for the ink for more complex spells?" he asks.

"Also, would you know who might be interested in purchasing these?" Westin asks as he pulls out 3 books from his knapsack and shows him to Colin. The books of Metaphysics, Magical Qualities of Gemstones and Magical Qualities of Herbs & Flowers.

Telemachus sighed and nodded as he took the sixty asil from Labras, "He was ensorcelled by Eliphas to be his ally and friend as we'd mentioned before but what we didn't know until later was that it didn't change how he felt about us and turn us into enemies as initially thought.  We found out the the bonds of our shared tragedy to get here to this island meant far less than we...or perhaps it was just myself...had thought.  Or rather he at best considered us travelling companions and nothing more."

Taking a deep breath he continued and while his body language remained the same the tone in his voice had changed, "He may be free of his magical ensnarement but he didn't deign to rejoin us after Eliphas was dead; which considering the understanding of what he really thought of us...is for the best.  At least we were able to find the book that Panatix was tasked with returning as part of the cost of the magic we thought would bring him back to our group...so we at least won't draw the ire of the Wizard and will be able to wrap up that business as well."
This message was last edited by the player at 04:03, Wed 08 Sept 2021.

Wyn stands when the Steward enters the room. And offers a simple introduction, "Wyn na'Keerla, at your service, sir."

Once Labras sits, Wyn does as well, and listens intently to the conversation learning of the recent exploits of the crew of the Ananke.

He can't hide a surprised expression when Telemachus speaks of Dak, the mutinous crew member.

Colin took in the asil and brought out four small bottles, setting them on the counter, looking a little more relaxed, as though he no longer feared being turned into a statue, a newt, or a fly.

"I don't know that I'd carry the things for more complex inks," Colin said.  "Malachy has indicated that my shop is rather inadequate."  He turned to pore over the books presented by Westin.

"This one is interesting," he said, "though I don't know that I can afford it for mere curiosity," he said, putting the metaphysics to the side.  "Malachy might be interested in them, but you might also find better prices in Shipton.  That town's a great deal larger than our little village."  From the tone, it sounded like Colin would much prefer that the books be sold in another town and not to Malachy, even though he did not dare say so directly.

"Well, I suppose it is as good as can be hoped," said Labras.  "I am glad that it does not sound like the man will pose a future threat to Monteci, though I am sorry that there was not a happier conclusion to that matter.  Now, the men that you brought from the house--they've been sentenced to labor for our village for the next three years, but they also provided a little information that might be worth following up on.  It seems that the ship that they supply and receive supplies from is expected to return sometime between the 10th and the 16th.  If you thought it worthwhile, we could break the other half of the smuggling ring.  Apparently, there are some codes that they send between the ship and the house to confirm that a boat is going out to the ship."

"I'm sorry there wasn't a better conclusion too." he remarked as he shook his head of the still uncomfortable feelings.

When he started talking about some of the other half of the smuggling ring he rubbed his chin and looked down, "We found a sheet of paper that has a series of dashes and crosses on it with a hooded lantern and spotted a windowsill that looks like it had been used repeatedly.  Obviously coded responses but we had no idea what they actually said being in cipher."

Looking back up at Labras he added, "Do you have more details on the ship, or the cipher and how do you see breaking this other half of the ring?"

"I thought it might be possible," said Labras, "that you could use the knowledge and board that ship, and bring those smugglers in as you did the ones from the house."  He reached into a pouch and pulled out a folded piece of paper.

This page had a few markings like rows that Telemachus had seen on the sheet of paper, with notation in Calandian under each, "we will be out to collect the goods" and "we will be bringing goods to you".

Wyn's eyes widened as he the Steward's and captain's discussion went from smugglers to murder to betrayal, and back to smugglers!

He had hoped to earn a few asil unloading cargo, but now it sounded like he might have the opportunity to become a privateer in the service of the Baron!

He leaned forward, eager to capture all of the details of the smugglers and their ship full of contraband goods.

Lenelle picked out the trio of spools, the colors she wanted - or pretty close - as she listened to Westin converse with the clerk.

Malachy -- he'd been beyond creepy. Amoral shell of a man, tampering with Atu knew what perverted spells and conjurings.  What little was left of his soul had surely fallen howling into the eighth Pit.    And good riddance.

She continued her shopping, acquiring some needles and a decent pair of embroidery scissors, if it was possible.

Westin pays Colin the 120 asil. "Thank you," he says. He takes the 4 bottles of ink and stores them in his pouch and steps back joining the others. "I'm ready to go though there's no rush," he says.

The needles--being as small as they were--proved to be kept behind the counter, and Colin brought out a cloth with several needles of varying sizes for sewing, darning, and embroidery.  He also was able to present a small pair of scissors.

"That all depends on the size of the ship.  If she's similar in size to the Ananke we'd stand a chance in surprising her either with just a row boat or between the row boat and the Ananke bearing down on her so she couldn't escape.  If she's larger or much larger we'd need more men or it might be impossible." he remarked honestly.

"Were they able or willing to to tell you anything about the ship, its crew...if it's the same ship or different ones...and then if they were supposed to pick up goods or take them to the ship this next time?"

In reply to DM (msg # 158):

“Well I was just trying my luck and hope I am lucky! In the meantime, I shall take a look around if you don’t mind,” Storm says cheerfully.

As he looks around, he listens to what others have to say.

Lenelle purchased two of each needle type that was presented.

And once that transaction was finished, she said to Westin "That does it.  I'm ready to leave when you are."   

Wyn is trying to picture the situation in his mind, a small boat coming from the house to meet a ship anchored offshore.

"What if," he blurts out, "you use a pincer with a distraction?

Send the boat from the house, as they expect. If there is only a low lamp burning, they probably won't see faces.

Then have a second small boat attack the first as it nears the ship! That should bring the whole ship's crew the rail.

And then the small boats attack the ship, while the Ananke comes up on the other side.

Of course, you would need a fair number of people..."

"Same ship," said Labras.  "Crew of about a dozen, including the captain.  They said they were expecting to receive goods.  We can let you keep all the contraband that they've got as a reward, and fifty asil to each of your group.  If you're able to bring any of the smugglers in, we can arrange the same bounty as for the ones you've already brought."

Wick kept his mouth shut and his eyes open as the others go about their shopping.  Wick didn’t have a shopping list to fill.

“I’m not familiar with Shipton, could you tell us where it lies?”

After all, a bigger town would improve chances of selling the books, or to find arms or armor, or threads of many colors….

After finding the ugliest trinket in the store, Pan will ask for a leather strap for sharpening and two of the finest straight edge razors in the shop.

After paying for these, he leaves and heads towards the lone tower of the wizard.

"About a dozen including the Captain..." he rubbed his chin, "versus six of us with surprise now that Dak is gone."

Looking back at Labras he added the obvious question, "If we indeed did stop them all and bring them in...what of their ship?"  That would be the most valuable thing.  Especially if she were a true small sea going vessel instead of a coastal vessel like the Ananke.  That would allow them to safely leave this island for others unlike how they dangerously arrived at this island in the first place trusting to good weather and luck.  He knew there were any number of various laws that were prevalent and many he'd heard of would say that it could be theirs without any question but others were more nebulous and he didn't know how this island's rulers interpreted them.

Colin's General Store

Lenelle's purchases came to a total of twenty asil.  Panatix found a salt cellar which featured a small white and black dog in the bottom of its interior for three griel, while his razors and strap came to a total of ten asil.

"Shipton's south of here, on the western end of our isle," said Colin in response to Wick's query.

---

Jail House

"Of course, Michan and Banan may wish to accompany you again, should you desire the aid," said Labras.  "The ship would be a further reward, should you succeed that completely."
This message was last edited by the GM at 08:29, Sun 12 Sept 2021.

"For a ship of that size and the numbers I'm seeing it would be appreciated...if the rest of the crew agree to the task," he nodded his head, "I'm inclined to take on the job and I'll try and convince the others but I'll track them down after leaving here.  I should have the combined answer for you by the morrow since I know the days of arrival for that ship are coming on quick."

He glanced to Wyn to see if the young elf had an air about him that spoke to wanting in on the endeavour after his earlier suggestion.  Looking back to Labras he then added a question he had been mulling over in his head, "I did have a tangential question only by way of its location.  If someone were to want to rebuild the old house up there to make it their own...how would one go about doing so?"

He didn't know all the vagaries of what could be claimed, what could be bought and what could only be deeded by the nobility who were to ostensibly there to 'rule' over those on their islands.  And as freewheeling as a number of folk were that he had been travelling with he knew that having somewhere safe to call 'home' could appeal.  Especially to those like Panatix and Westin who couldn't have a proper laboratory on board a ship.  Each of the others could find use in their own way for the place beyond just a place to lay their head as even Storm would eventually want to have some fortified demesne for others of his Order to train or rest at.  Even Telemachus could find peace there...even if it was below in the caves and close to the ocean.

Wick gives the shop keeper a nod of thanks.

If Shipton is so close, it makes a lot of sense to just head over there and see what they could find there.  Wick's shopping needs are modest, so he really doesn't have a need from that perspective, but always good to know what's where...  At least that's how he always explained his desire to roam about and explore.

"I'll have to speak to deMontec about that matter," Labras said in response to Telemachus' query about re-building on the site of the old house.  "Will you be lodging at the Cat and Custard Pot?  I can be sure to pass along to Michan and Banan that they should speak with you."

"I figured that would likely be the case." replied Telemachus understandingly.

He then nodded affirmatively to his question about the lodging, "That is the plan.  All things being equal everyone is supposed to meet there tonight even if we don't find one another during the rest of this day for dinner there and resting the night.  Thank you."

Standing up he gave Labras a polite bow, "Till morrow and hopefully good tidings."

Glancing over to Wyn to see if the man was going to continue accompanying him till tonight where he would cover his meal and room he tilted it to head outside with him.  Once beyond the doorway he expected the elf to ask questions or make commentary.  He didn't have a direct direction to go yet though...

"You think it might be worth a trip to Shipton, then?" Lenelle asked of the other two --  no mind reader at all, but likewise thinking the obvious thing, upon learning that it was so near to them.

I also bought the scissors - I believe I forgot to mention it.

I won't run with'em, I promise.   Wisdom's too high.  ;)

Wick shrugs, "If we don't have anything better to do, seems like a good idea to me."

"It would be fun to explore and go there," Westin says brightly.

"and maybe see how much we might get for the book," he adds as an afterthought.

Once Wyn and Telemachus leave the building, the elf looks to the young druid, "Having to board a ship and then fight two-to-one odds is not a winning bet.

I still think a distraction is needed...something that will draw the attention of the ship's crew. Do any of your companions have the ability to conjure a sea serpent or a kraken?" he ask with a chuckle.

"The other alternative is to board undetected. If your entire boarding party was invisible...and able to fly...that would work!" he chuckles again.

"If the night is dark, and the people quiet, it could be possible to board quietly...ideally there might be an open hatch...so you don't have to make it to the main deck.

Given how small your crew, I would say, the small boat leaves the shore as expected...and either fakes trouble or another diversion...while the rest of the crew look to board quietly from the seaward side."

Wyn waits for Telemachus to provide his own insight into how to board the ship.

Having concluded their business at Colin's, the group that was shopping headed on toward the church.

---

While there were a number of people on the street, Panatix found that there was nothing much in the way of his getting to the tower of Malachy.  He would not even need to come particularly close to the supervised crew of men who had been the surviving smugglers from Eliphas' gang.

---

After concluding the business, Labras turned to talk to Turlough--perhaps about what to do with the remains of Eliphas--as Telemachus and Wyn re-emerged on the streets of Monteci to contemplate how they might accomplish the task, should they indeed choose to undertake it.

In reply to Wick (msg # 188):

"I am good with going there as well! Nothing pressin for me or us anyway," Storm muses.

"A distraction is a necessity regardless if we try and pack the rowboat with as many as possible or try a pincer move and split our attack." agreed Telemachus, "though if we tried a pincer move we'd need at least one more skilled seaman to make it all work as we'd need at least two on the Ananke and one on the rowboat."

He conveniently left out Wyn as that possibility since all he was enjoined to so far was sticking around for his dinner and inn room paid for the light work he'd done for him, "Westin is a practitioner of magic and Panatix is an Illusionist.  Lenelle is a cleric of Atu.  Storm calls himself a holy warrior and seeks to join the Order of the Mace.  Wick is nimble and good in a fight and the best of the current crew who know their way around the Ananke outside myself.  If we only went with the rowboat I can think of a distraction that would work.  Using the Ananke as well would be tricky unless we could camouflage her somehow nearby as the secluded cave isn't large enough for both her and the rowboat at the same time. Two to one is bad odds even with surprise.  If all of them agree though and Michan and Banan come along as well then that makes eight to their twelve.  Much better odds to be sure."

He scratched his chin, "But even with the best sounding plan now, it'll go right to pot once the other ship becomes involved and we'll have to improvise unless a bunch of strangers to us act exactly like we hope they do..  First I need to convince the others that it's a worthy endeavour.  Then we can iron out a few ways to accomplish it."

Pan makes his way to the wizards tower, taking time to enjoy the hike, to smell the roses as it were.  By the time he arrives, he is in a very good mood.

He will knock on the main door and wait.

"It sounds like Shipton is a larger town. It's always possible they might have an armorer there who makes Plate Mail. I don't want to get you hopes up too much in case they don't, but it might be worth going there and checking," Westin says to Storm.

"How long have you know father Naill," Westin asks Lenelle. "Is this church your home church?"

"How about you Wick? Are you from Monteci? If not, how did you end up here?" he asks.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:34, Wed 15 Sept 2021.

Shortly after Panatix had knocked at the door of the tower, the tow-headed boy of perhaps eight or nine, wearing a black robe that was at least a size bigger than necessary, opened the door to admit Panatix.

Pan smiles at the lad, "I've returned to visit with Malachy, please let him know, I have business to conclude with him".

Wyn listened carefully to Telemachus' thoughts, a little pleased that the druid was considering the plan that he had suggested in the office.

~Mum always said I made decisions too rashly...but Fintan spoke well of this crew...they are doing the Baron's work...the Steward seems to think highly of them...~

"I'm a trained crewman, Telemachus...and I am skilled with a sword as well...and, I could use the coin!" he adds with a laugh.

"I've heard a little of your crew around the docks, and it seems that the Baron's steward thinks well enough of you all.

You seem an honest bunch, and I am willing to throw my lot in with you, if you think I might fit.

If not, I will still hold you to dinner and a room the inn, even if the work was worth far less! I will give you my assistance with your plans if you want it, and we part in the morning.

What say you?"
This message was last edited by the player at 02:58, Thu 16 Sept 2021.

"Not very long," she answered Westin.

"I arrived from the father-church, in Calandia.  I only met father Niall shortly before I met the rest of you.    But, I've a liking for Monteci's little church and the man who oversees it.  So different from the grandeur of the Calandian great-shrine, yet no less significant in the eyes of Atu."   

In reply to Westin na'Belva (msg # 195):

"Yes, the bigger towns will have better things on offer. Besides we have a fair bit of money and money is useless if we do not use it. That being said, how is Calandia like priestess of good?" he asks Lenelle

Having hailed from an island before his capture, Storm has only been to the couple of places so far.

"I practically grew up on a ship being trained by a few Navigators.  It's not hard to tell very quickly those that are trained proper crew and those that only play at it or worse pretend to.  More importantly I knew how much work there was actually for you to do when I enjoined you to it Wyn, there is no fear of me skipping out on your dinner and room, and I wanted to gauge you for more than just a simple strong arm." replied Telemachus with a small smile.

"If the others agree with looking to shut down this portion of the smuggling ring I think there is no better a time to measure a man or woman to travel with you and I do think you'd have a place among us.  If they don't and want to travel elsewhere or handle another issue that I'm unaware of you're free to come with or go your own way if you so choose after hearing the direction chosen."

"I could not ask for a more fair offer, Telemachus."

Wick looks at the tower with a wary eye, not liking the look of it.  As Panatix talked to the lad, Wick considers his options.  Perhaps he would remain outside while the gnome went in.  Wick was real curious to see what was inside, but also very interested in being able to get back outside if things went south.

If it's a matter of picking a lock, getting out was something Wick felt good about, but one never knew about wizards.

"Right.  Well the others have scattered to the winds to handle things so we're not likely to see them again till tonight at the inn lest we try and track them down...either at the market, the old wizards tower or at the Church," he mused idly.

"First pick up some fishing rods, line and hooks so we can supplement the food we bring on with fish taken as we sail.  Then grab some dried goods to supplement Castor and Pollux's diet.  Wrap up the shopping by finding out who makes oars so we can have a few spare for the Ananke as well as use in a pinch for the small sea craft should we choose to stop the smugglers.  Lastly I need to head back to the Ananke to finish the log entry and take inventory to see what could be useful in capturing the ship.  You're welcome to come back with me or keep to your own devices should you choose."

"You have a long list, the least I can do is to help get it back to the Ananke.

So, for the day, I will be at your service!"

“Alright then let’s have at it…”

Telemachus already knew where he could get all three of his tasks off the ship taken care of…he’d already met the woodworker Bran who had helped them before and who could likely assist in the oars while the fishing kit and dried goods could be found at Colin’s or at the market itself.  As he went he freely made small talk with the locals who started up anything because if this might someday be their home or close to it he wanted the people of Monteci to have a fair opinion of the Captain of the Ananke

The boy nodded to Panatix, and left the gnome in the anteroom for a short time before returning to take him into the next room.  Here, there was the man that he had learned was, indeed, Malachy.

"You have returned," said Malachy.  "You have the book?"

---

The group of Westin, Lenelle, and Storm continued on to the church.  Here, the larger figure dressed as an acolyte--Senan--could be seen at the far end of the cemetery attending to the grounds.  When they entered the church, an acolyte said that Brother Niall was currently attending to a villager who had fallen and broken a leg.

Pan nods to the man,  "Straight to the heart of the matter I see, no, good to see you, glad you are alive, all that needless smalltalk.  Yes, I have the book.  Now before I just hand it over, I feel in some small way, I'm still owed a debt.  I'll speak of it, and let you decide.  In partial payment for my tracking this thing down, I was given a certain item of magic.  It was activated as instructed, but had not the desired effect.  Just saying..." with that he produces and hold out the book.

Lenelle waved to Senan on the way in.   She was happy to set foot within the shrine once again;  so much had transpired, since last she was here...

Upon hearing of the villager, she said to the others "We should wait until he's finished with that work.  Perhaps inside the chapel-?"   
This message was last edited by the player at 21:32, Tue 21 Sept 2021.

"Sure, I don't him to feel rushed," Westin says in response to Lenelle. He hadn't spent time in a human chapel except for the last time they had visited and he had had other things on his mind that time. "Do you want to show us around?"
This message was last edited by the player at 22:08, Tue 21 Sept 2021.

"Surely. This way," she beckoned.  Lenelle proceeded to do as requested...  And, for the life of me, I don't remember the layout of this place, if it was ever, er, laid out.  If there's a library, even a small one, we definitely stop there, 'cause I know Westin's a book guy, and who knows, there just may be something interesting.. 

(It had not been laid out with any particular detail--there's a back hall with the bedrooms for Brother Niall, the acolytes, and a few rooms for visitors, a dining area, and toward the "front of the house" is Brother Niall's office, the clinic, and a large room for worship.))

On a whim Storm tries to detect evil to see if he will sense supreme good. He will observe the surroundings and try to see if things have changed since they last came.

Wick meanders around the outside of the tower, just killing time and seeing what there is to see.  He didn't have any business with the wizard and if anything happened to Panatix, well if Wick knows about it, then being outside would help him get to the others all the faster.  He'd heard tale that doors in wizards towers couldn't be trusted.  He'd once heard of a door that was only on one side of a wall, go thru it and and then all that's behind is bare wall, no sign of door or lintel or nothing.  Then there were doors that were there and you step thru and then step back and you end up in an entirely new place...  Wick wasn't sure he put stock in such tales, but there were times when it was better to avoid risks.

"This is a really nice place, Lenelle" Westin says looking around, taking it all in as they make their tour. "People are really nice and friendly here too. Do all chapels of Atu feel like home for you?"

"I think you made the right choice being a cleric. You seem far too adventurous to be a nun."
This message was last edited by the player at 06:37, Sat 25 Sept 2021.

Outside Malachy's Tower

In Wick's general meanderings, he noted that this seemed to be almost an entirely residential part of the community, although the bathhouse was located nearby and at an inlet there was a gathering of women who appeared to be doing laundry.

---

Inside the Tower

"If you had not survived, I would simply have to send another on the task," said Malachy, taking the book and opening the cover.  For the first time, it looked like the bizarre mage was smiling.

"I made no promises what would happen when the enchantment was broken," he said.  "The coin?"

---

Around Monteci

Together, Telemachus and Wyn made their way around the village to find additional oars at 2 griel apiece, and at Collin's store some food for Castor and Pollux at 1 asil per day per animal, along with the rods, lines, and hooks for a total of 4 asil for the rods, line, and hooks desired.

The shopping had gone easily enough, bringing them back to the Ananke.

---

At the church

The church, from what he could tell, seemed unchanged from Storm's last visit, and he detected no evil here.

After a short time, Brother Niall came out of the treatment room, greeting the trio.

"It is good to see you all again," said Brother Niall, "and looking well.  Would you like to come into the office, and tell about what you've been doing since you were here last?  I can have some tea brought in."

"That sounds great!" Westin says with a smile. Once they have settled down and the tea has been brought in, Westin will relate the story.

"Well, we found Eliphas in Farnsworth but he was, um, dead. And we found Dak. Seems like maybe he wasn't charmed after all. Dak had gone with Eliphas to Farnsworth. However, then someone named Cannibal came to town with a gang of men and he took things over. Cannibal apparently knew or hired an assassin and the assassin killed Eliphas while he slept."

"When we arrived at Farnsworth, there was a group of people who wanted to free the town from Cannibal. So we joined forces and there was a fight. Cannibal had a lot of men but there were 4 spell casters like me and soon most were all sleeping or otherwise incapacitated. That left the big fight between Cannibal and his 2 lieutenants fighting against Storm, Lenelle, Telemachus. Storm fought and killed Cannibal while Lenelle and Telemachus killed his lieutenants."

"The pretty much ended it except for the ugly part," Westin says, making face. "Cannibal, when killed reverted back into an ugly dog/wolf things. It was pretty upsetting. We burned the body thoroughly though so I think that's the end of it."

"Oh, forgot to mention. Even though Dak was part of the group in Farnsworth that fought to free the town, he didn't actually join the fight. Apparently he got really thirsty when the fighting started and went to a tavern. He must have been really thirsty as he didn't appear again until sometime after the fight was over."

"How have things been here?"
This message was last edited by the player at 21:26, Sun 26 Sept 2021.

Pan smiles, "Ah, yes, well, since we are being all technical, the whole, I didn't say what would happen when you broke the pearl stuff.  Well, you also said I was not to return without the book and 500 asil.  I have both, one I've handed to you, as I've no use for it, the other,  I returned with it, but it was never promised to you....since we're being technical".

"Do not try my patience," he said.  "You were told not to return without Ars Mathematica and 500 asil."

Thanking the priest for the tea, Storm offers a toast to the church before taking sips of it.

Hearing Westin's story, Storm interjected,"By the grace of the gods, we succeeded in overcoming the foes."
When Westin has concluded his tale, Storm continues,"Yes we will be interested in hearing what has transpired over the days and if there is anything we can do to help."

"Tch tch, poor Malachy, always having his patience tested.  Who gave you the right to be rude and try everyone else but no one else." While talking Pan pulls out the sack of coins and drops them on the desk, and sets a small figurine beside it.

"Business concluded.  Oh, I picked that up for you, it's a bit ugly but it reminded me of an oliphant, so I thought it might look nice with your bench out front.  I guess if you can make sense of those formula's, you are indeed a genius or a madman, or both, I couldn't make starts or end out of them...yeah, I'll see myself out, no I can't stay for lunch...no, no, please don't embarrass me, your thanks is good enough for me.".

Previously: 

Lenelle had been a little taken aback by Westin's question to whether all Atuan chapels engendered a feeling of home.

Taken aback because she found she didn't have a quick and simple answer. The answer should be yes -- why was she hesitating?   Had her time abroad, among these diverse people - affected her perspective somehow?   Yes, said some part of her.

"I love my calling," she said instead, focusing on the other thing he'd asked. "I was to be a nun, originally.  But it was decided I was able and better suited to training as a cleric." 

Presently: 

She sipped her tea, and listened as Westin related the tale to Niall.   He was good at elaborative style speaking she reflected, not for the first time.   Content to listen.

While she wondered just where her road with this company was taking her, professionally and personally.  Several thoughts and feelings conflicted within her.  She needed to pray about it.  Perhaps talk it over with Father Niall...
This message was last edited by the player at 00:12, Thu 30 Sept 2021.

Malachy's Tower

Malachy poured the coins into a bowl, seeming somehow to be watching them through the ruin of his face.

"Yes, five hundred," he said, the smile making his appearance even less pleasant than it was otherwise.  "Good, you have done well enough, and you may leave without the curse of Malachy upon you.  Egron!"

The young boy who had first admitted Panatix to the tower scurried forward.

"I've delayed enough now.  See the young gnome out."

With a tiny gesture, Malachy--carrying the much desired Ars Mathematica left the room with the bowl of coins trailing behind him as though an unseen dog was carrying the dish in its mouth, yet somehow not spilling any of the coins.

"I've never seen Master Malachy look so happy," said the boy, and then he clapped his hands over his mouth, as though he should not have said such things.

---

St Magnus Church

"I am sorry to hear that you were unable to bring your friend Dak back into the fold," said Brother Niall.  "It has been fairly quiet here, the most excitement was when Hurd fell through the roof he was working to repair.  Broke his leg rather badly, so I've been working to get that healing properly.  Of course, those folk you brought it, Labras has been having them work around the town, but they're always well-guarded."

Lenelle had nearly forgotten, but now was the time to report a particular book to a superior within the church.

She removed her pack, and extracted the tome.  "The Beginner's Guide to Pious Practices"   She proffered it to Niall, saying:

"There was too the matter of a faux-priest in Farnsworth - pretending to be one of our own.   He came to a bad end, as con men often do.  But, this book was his tutorial.  I've not heard of anything like it before. I found it a little concerning." 

Pan just shakes his head, as he heads out towards the door.  "Good luck young man..."
.

He whistles and hums to himself as he makes the walk back to town, enjoying the nature along the way and occasionally bursting into laughter.

Back at town, he goes straight to the inn, orders an ale for himself, and a hearty meal.  If there are others drinking at this time of the day, he'll order a round for all of them.

Panatix is in a very good humor, just why, would be hard to explain.

Wick doesn't do much but take in the view about the tower until Panatix came out.  As the gnome heads back toward town, Wick rejoins him.  "Glad to see you get out of there with right number of arms and legs.  I was willing to put a few asil down on you being turned into a toad. Everything went okay then?"

He joins Panatix on towards the inn, ready for a cold drink and a hot meal himself.  He'll happily let Panatix cover a round for him, sticking to ale.

Pan nods and smiles back at Wick, "The odds were with you on that bet, But ole' Pan's hard to turn into a toad in the end.  I pushed it right to the edge though.  Strangely unpleasant wizard..."

In reply to DM (msg # 223):

"Ah it i good that they are now ding penance for their deeds," Storm says. Thnn thinking, he ads," I surely pray one day, they will see the light and live pious and righteous lives."

When Lenelle shows the book, Storm says," Indeed there seems to be a flourishing of herectics these days. I wonder what we can do to combat them. Perhps churches of te same alignment should stand together."

Westin stood silently as the others brought up and discussed the "The Beginner's Guide to Pious Practices" tome. As an elf, he was mostly ignorant when it came to human religions. He was interested, however, in the kindly man's reaction. He had heard of stories of how humans dealt with religious heresies int the past. Indeed, as an outsider, sometimes the response was worse than the heresy! He had trouble, however, imagining Brother Niall being one of them. He was just too kind.

---

"I have heard of such works," said Brother Niall, looking over the volume that Lenelle had brought.  "Unfortunately, such things are all too common.  Some better quality than others, if you want to call it that.  Pity Sydnor was not more cautious."

He set the book down on the desk, and said, "I can see to it that it is burned later.  You did not see Sydnor, while you were there in Farnworth, did you?"

---

Wick and Panatix arrived at the quiet Cat and Custard Pot.

"What can I get you?" said Aidan from behind the bar.

Wick gives a sniff, trying to figure out what's on the spit.  It smells pretty good, "Whatever I'm smelling, fix me up a plate, and a pint of ale."

He turns to Panatix, "You?"

Pan, "Same here, thank you!"

"So, Wick, what is next for us I wonder?  Freedom tastes good".

"I did not meet anyone by that name," Lenelle answered Niall, "However, I can only presume you mean Farnworth's legitimate priest.  Sadly, I believe he was a victim of the impostor.  I think he was poisoned by him, though I have no proof.  In any case, he has gone home to Atu."   

Lenelle assured Niall she was more than happy to see the book tossed into a hearth.

Westin frowned. Destroying books would, in most cases, be an anathema for him. Books were repositories of learning from the learned and, as such, were to be cherished and lovingly kept and maintained. His first inclination was to protest and advocate against the book's destruction. However, he quickly realized this just might be an exception. He recalled Cannibal and the evil that had occurred in the town. Lenelle seemed firmly convinced that the book was intimately connected to those events and may have helped in their orchestration. She had been a true and courageous companion and he was willing to accept her word for it.

His moral crises resolved, he said nothing. The book warranted destruction.
This message was last edited by the player at 17:07, Wed 06 Oct 2021.

“Would the book not be useful in providing some clues that can help us against the enemy?” Storm asks. His limited experience suggests that many a times evil turns on itself because of its nature- divisive, self seeking and more. Afterall legends speak of evil tomes with power words that can bind demons.

Wyn carries the bag of dried meat and the oars to the Ananke, leaving Telemachus to deal with the fishing gear.

Once on the ship, he assists in stowing the equipment, as directed. And then inspects the ship's hold with the druid, looking for anything that might useful to board the smuggler's ship.

"I can't say I have boarded a ship before, but I have heard of sailors swinging from ropes to cross over to the other deck. Or ropes with grappling hooks used to pull the ships together.

But we will be looking for a quieter boarding, I expect.

Still ropes with grapples would allow for climbing up from a small boat.

If they are anchored, what do you think of trying to climb the anchor lines?

I don't suppose any of your crew can cast a spell that would allow us to fly? That would make things easier!" he adds with laugh.

Wick nods in between bites.  "Yeah, much better then being chained up in the hold of a slaver ship, that's for sure."  He appreciates Panatix's comment.  "I'm thinking we sail around and see what there is to see when we get to a larger town.  We've had good luck gathering bounties so far, but it's uncertain work.  Maybe we see about hauling some cargo.  One of these days though, I have a mind to go hunting slavers and see how they like being clapped in irons."  He lifts his cup in something of a toast to the idea before taking a drink.

Pan nearly chokes at Wick's comment.

"That is a noble idea, and a brave one.  I'm not sure I could force myself near slavers again, with any chance I'd fall back into their grasp."  He takes a deep drink. "But when you are ready, check with me again...maybe in time".

Wick snorts at Panatix's response.  "Ain't nothing noble about revenge.  I don't know about it being brave either, I'm thinking just prudent.  At least going after them, I'd be ready instead of caught passed out in some strumpet's hovel."

Telemachus listened to some of the suggestions before responding with a smile, "Most of the crew are not accomplished swimmers and as useful as using grappling hooks or ropes to swing we'd need a larger ship with multiple masts to have enough rigging to make that more feasible and a lot more men...and they are expecting a slightly larger than dinghy delivering the goods.  As for flying I don't think our magically inclined individuals can do it en-mass let alone individually but I could be wrong..."

Sighing he added, "Still need to convince them it's worth doing and worth the risk.  It's not a small ask...it's a high risk with possible high reward.  After having to deal with Cannibal and Eliphas I'm not sure they want to go right back into the grinder."

Offering a small smile he wrapped up with, "Long as I can convince them then we can get their minds working on the same thing.  Maybe if we can get more information from the prisoners...type of ship, oars and masts, if she has a proper crows nest...then consult the charts to see what sort of night it will be.  A full moon will reveal any deception quickly while a new one will possibly hide the Ananke if she's moving on oars alone.  Not to mention how much of the cloth and whiskey they were supposed to send out...we might be able to find out specifics from the letters and notes that Eliphas kept but maybe not."

ooc: I'll move the story ahead, hope no one minds, it's bound to happen.


Later, at the Inn, Mac has detailed the idea of shutting down the other ship and the rest of the smugglers in his organized and calm way.

Panatix nods, "I'm in if we get to keep the ship, and it's contents, or at least a portion of them.".

ooc: sorry for being slow on the uptake.  Grandmother passed earlier this week and had to put to sleep our old dachshund this morning...it's been a rough week.

Telemachus nodded his head, "He said any captured individuals would be paid like the ones we captured before of Eliphas' group.  The illicit goods we could keep and the ship, if we were so lucky to take it, would be ours as well...I made sure to ask of that since while the Ananke is a wonderful ship she's not made for longer voyages between islands.  This one would make it easier to expand where we could sail."

He then pointed out, "But it's crewed by about a dozen men meaning it's likely a larger ship.  The translation is key...it says that they, or rather us if we are impersonating them, are either coming out to get goods or coming out to deliver goods.  If we are delivering goods at night we could conceal most of us or all of us on the dinghy as those goods...it would be very tight though.  Wyn here is willing to join us if we choose to do this, or perhaps join us anyways if we choose to decline and move on."

Pausing Telemachus added one last thing, "While it's a longshot possibility I also asked Labras what it would take to have title and rule over the lands around the old house.  I do not have a home to go back to but I would like somewhere where I could return to and find rest and respite.  With proper funding the house could be refurbished or torn down and re-built for our use...a chapel, a library, a training yard...the options are as varied as we are willing to spend coin upon.  A safe port of call to return to, and if we do capture the other ship the cave below is large enough to dock the Ananke safely while we are away."

Eventually, those who had visited the church had finished their discussion with Brother Niall, the book found meriting destruction rather than providing any further trail to follow. Having concluded that discussion, they reached the Cat and Custard Pot in time to hear Telemachus laying out a possible future direction for their group.

Seeing that everyone had finally made it Telemachus laid out the first bit, "So the first question we need to answer is if we want to help Labras out and strike another blow at the smuggling ring.  No point in making plans if the majority of us don't want to even attempt it."

He held his hands out, "I'd like to help but the odds on the face are stacked against us...even if the two town guards come with us somehow to help out it'll be tricky to strike a good blow cause we'll need to get on the ship to have an even fight regardless of any surprise."

Looking at the others he added, "So let's get that out of the way and then we can either discuss how we might take on the ship or decide where we might go if we don't."

Wyn sat quielty while Telemachus laid out the possibilities for the crew of the Ananke.

Once the gnome, Pantix, had voiced his vote to the affirmative, the elf felt it would acceptable to throw in his lot as well.

"Telemachus has offered me the opportunity to join your group. I am a competent seaman and I am experienced with my sword.

If my vote carries any weight, and I won't be offended if it doesn't, I too, am in."

Wick weighs it a bit...  "How big a ship are we talking about?  If we manage to take her, would we have enough able-bodied to sail her?  If we think there's some good rewards, I'm happy to help.

Not sure what I think about buying the wizards house though.  I'd think we'd almost have to demolish the old works and build new or risk more nasty surprises.  We'd need to bring in some workmen, materials, someone to over see them all, cooks to feed them....  And who'd be minding the place when we're sailing about?  We'd need guards, someone we trust to keep an eye on them, have someone keep it up for us, turn us into right stately men of grandeur.  Sorry, men and ladies of grandeur.

I sort of like the idea of being a land owner, but it's going to take some effort and a lot of coin, not only to get it, but to keep it."

Telemachus nodded, "Eliphas' men said she was crewed by no more than a dozen including the Captain.  So either she's bigger than the Ananke but not by much and they are running a small to skeleton crew or she's the same size but engineered differently to handle the open seas and the larger than us crew is to overwhelm other small unsuspecting merchant ships or costal and river ones.  Between you, Wyn and myself being able to handle more difficult things and willing hands from the others here we should be able to sail her adequately across deep blue.  If not then we can go to a major port and sell her which would be quite the reward even when split."

He made an offhanded thumb towards the docks, "The Ananke probably cost around three hundred thousand asil to build and could get most of that if we found a real buyer."

Telemachus added, "I only seeded the idea in Labras' mind. Our actions benefiting the Lord likely make it more favorable though and eliminating a source that was avoiding his taxes is likely a good direction.  Ultimately though the Lord would have to agree and I do not think that will be a quick decision.  That gives us time to decide how seriously we would choose to make that happen."

"I do know how to sail," Westin pipes up. "I sailed a small sailing ship around the nearby islands before I came here. Not for long voyages, as I never got around to learning navigation, but I certainly know my way around a ship and have some insights in direction and weather. Don't mind being up in the lookup if the seas aren't too rough. The only thing is I'm not especially strong so may need some help to hoist the mailsail."

"Owning a boat is nice but it doesn't do much good if you don't go anywhere with it. However, it has come in handy and does seem like a nice ship. My small ship was too small to take me on long distances but on a ship like this, you could probably go a long ways."

"The Ananke is a brown-water ship.  Good for coasts and deeper rivers or short excursions of around three days at sea, five would be pushing it considering our number.  She's not large enough or designed well for longer trips between distant islands here in the archipelago where the high-seas get rough and you need enough food and water for the long hauls." Telemachus informed Westin about the Ananke as he answered what he could about what he knew about.

"That's good to know Westin.  The more trained men and women we have the better off we will be."
This message was last edited by the player at 19:35, Tue 26 Oct 2021.

Pan again agrees, "I'm in.  I think with some planning, we can likely get the advantage we need,  my guess is they are mostly swordsells, with little to no arcane support on the ship.  That should give us a chance.  Better than I'd say."

"I like that the house, old as it is, has a secret cave entrance.  But let's stick to the ship for the moment"

In reply to Wyn na'Keerla (msg # 246):

Storm greets the newcomer. "Nice to have you onboard. I am Storm. It is good to have another sailor."

Hearing the plans the rest of the members lay out, Storm ponders before replying. "How desperate are we to get Eliphas? They might have more men but we have trained dedicated men and in fights, these make a big difference. From my understadning of Elphias in the things i hear, he is not exactly one who keeps his men out of loyalty. Perhaps some persuasion, gold or even attacks on our part will cause them to crack. Anyway Tele, do you have any idea how far ahead he is? Honestly, if our ship can go faster, i say we go catch him. The favor of the lord can always be called upon later."

Telemachus smiled patiently at Storm, "We got Eliphas in the previous town we were in Storm.  He'd been stabbed in the back by an assassin with a poisoned blade.  I'd prepared his body for transport and we brought him here to give to Labras.  I did that earlier today while you went out shopping and visiting the church."

He paused a moment before adding, "What I'm talking about is smugglers that worked with Eliphas.  These people sail to where their hidden base was and signal letting them know that they've arrived.  Then either they collect up smuggled goods or bring them out to the ship that has arrived so she should be anchored and running dark to avoid notice from the port authorities here in town.  We know a rough set of dates when they will arrive so we'd need to setup at the house with the bullseye lantern and plan how to stop them from smuggling ever again."

Telemachus then pointed out, "They may yield in a fight but only if they can be certain thait the punishment for the crime doesn't cause them to be executed for their crimes.  If they know they are only smugglers and are confidant nothing else can be pinned on them then they might fold.  But if they are pirates?  A known vessel that preys on others and committed offenses punishable by death?  They will likely fight till the end knowing it's survival for them."

"When we spoke to Labras earlier, the estimate was a dozen crew plus the captain. It will not be an easy battle to win.

Telemachus says that some of you are spellcasters, are any of you able to silence a group approaching the ship, or allow one or more to float or fly?

Boarding the ship without rousing the crew will be difficult. If it can be accomplished, success would be far more likely."

“Ah pardon me! The extreme weather and excitement together with the book probably addled my mind. Indeed, pirates usually expect no quarter as they too give none. I would say the idea of moving up by stealth is a clever idea. But I am bound by my tenets to avoid subterfuge. Perhaps I can approach them boldly to parley and seek their surrender,” Storm muses.

"What if we take a different tack here."  His thoughts are still forming even as he's trying to share them.  "Instead of attacking, we present ourselves as Eliphas' replacement, since he got himself killed.  Then, we can size them up and if it looks right, we can then take them out.  Or maybe we consider other, uhm, available opportunities."

He considers what he knows of each of the others a moment and then Wick looks around the place, "Maybe this isn't the best place to talk about it though."

Telemachus' eyebrow went up before he chuckled lightly with Storm, "If you were bearing down on them in a right large warship and had five times the men I think you could ask for their surrender but in a smaller ship with less men," and then he tilted it towards Lenelle, "and women I fear they would laugh at us and pirate our ship."

He remarked wistfully, "It is too bad that the Ananke can't be turned into the smaller dinghy by way of illusion magic to allow all of us to arrive unexpectedly."

Shifting his look over to Wick he nodded his head, "We can discuss those options after dinner and back at the ship.  It is unlikely though if they are sailing that they will realize Eliphas is dead yet since it is such recent news and their wariness will be minimal since he seemed to hire on a diverse set of men as muscle.  We should be able to deliver the goods or take on goods without any real issue and make a judgement call if we can successfully capture the ship or put them out of business...but by then it'll be too late if we haven't smuggled everyone on board or set in motion actions to ensure we can bring full force to bear."

"Well, we can of course try and if they refuse, we can charge in. Say what spells do you guys have? I am certain a trained mob against a rabble will see us routing them. Of course, we need to also see how big their ship is. Anyway, i believe their men may not all be very loyal so i think a fierce frontal assault may work," Storm explains.

To Wick's advice, Storm says," I guess it has merits. Although my tenets probably dont allow me to do that."

OOC: I am assuming a paladin cant do subterfuge but must close and attack GM?

Lenelle laughed in somewhat unusually lighthearted way for her, at Mac's remark, "Aye, can't deny that, it's probably true."   

This was a serious discussion, however.   For herself, she was no sailor, let alone a buccaneer.    And the idea of this made her uneasy.

"I'd far prefer subterfuge, and a well placed sleep spell.   Which is saying something, because Atuan principle doesn't exactly condone such an approach.   But neither does it condone bloodbaths, which is what this beckons to be, if we attack full on, and they meet us in kind."   

---

The group continued their conversation at the Cat and Custard Pot, the time of day making it such that no one else but Aidan was present for the moment.

Wyn's eyes narrowed slightly at the small man's words. ~Is he actually considering becoming a smuggler?~

The elf's concern was quickly laid to rest when Telemachus spoke of loading or unloading smuggled goods as a tactic to allow the rest of the group to board the ship.

~I must have misunderstood him.~ Wyn thought.


"We don't need the Ananke to be there, unless you plan on mounting weapons on her...we just need a way to approach the ship...perhaps Labras could arrange to lend some small boats?

If he is willing to hand over the ship as a reward and provide some men-at-arms, surely two small boats would not be unreasonable?

And if Sir Storm is set on asking for their surrender, perhaps that might be the distraction needed to allow the rest of us to sneak aboard?"

Wick gives Storm a smirk and a nod.  "So, just a question not related to this business.  According to your tenats, are you saying it's better to kill or be killed in a stand up fight then to win a fight with little bloodshed by being sneaky and underhanded?  Just wondering."

Wick has traveled with Storm long enough to respect the man, and his skills, and he truly likes Storm if truth be told.  But in Wick's estimation, the tree that can not bend is doomed to break eventually.

"I'm sorry Wick, but would you mind holding of such questions? I have some spells I want to scribe so I really want us as a group to figure out what we are doing next so there is time for me to do that. If we start hypothetical it might take all day or longer," Westin says.

"I don't think pretending to be smugglers is going to work. There are a few of us, like me, who would be very difficult to disguise. I for one don't think anyone is ever going to believe that Jade and I are hardened criminals and I think at least a few others as well. They are bound to look us over and be ready for anything, even if they haven't heard of Eliphas's death. We might find ourselves in a real pickle!"
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 04:17, Thu 04 Nov 2021.

"At least it seems most of us are in agreement that we should see about trying to stop the smuggling," remarked Telemachus, "and Labras mentioned that if we wanted help the two that went with us to round up Eliphas' crew would likely come as well."

Looking to Storm he nodded, "We will figure out a way to let you uphold your tenants my friend."

Tapping the table he slid his mug out, "As Westin and Wyn say we need to know what can be used.  I can crack and warp the wood of the ship...from the rudder so they can't steer to the hull itself causing it to spring leaks.  The sound from that happening might be able to split the crew up to give us better odds.  I also wanted to look for sea weed.  If I can harvest enough to weave together into a loose net of sorts, and keep alive in the water at the coast till we row out to the ship...if someone strong like Storm could throw it onto the deck of the ship and I could animate it in the same way that I did when we fought Cannibal...the loose ends whipping out and grasping the enemy crew."

Storm considers the words of his friends and turns them over in his head. As he thinks through, he consults the divine wisdom that is in him.

"Well, it is for some that the gods grant special favour as a balance to us taking unnecessary risk in the eyes of most. Perhaps that is why members of my order if we do not perish young from our folly, become grandmasters of combat. Yet I am also bound to follow the local lord's instructions to bring the criminals in. I guess the greater good of the people prevail and as long as I do not stab them from the back or kill them in their sleep, my standing should be good," he espouses, looking at each of the member in his eyes as he speaks.

"Yes, a net that can animate will be good. Sounds logical. Anyone else has useful magicks that can work?"

Wick gives Weston a wink, pushing down any annoyance he had at the Elf's cutting the discussion short.  Wick would have liked to have that discussion, but it could be had at another time.

"Damaging their ship has two downsides, it robs us of a ship, at least while repairs are made, and it risks sinking the ship, meaning we lose any cargo it's carrying, although if it's not too deep, I can swim down and salvage stuff, if it's not ruined by being sunk.  The idea of the net sounds interesting, but I don't know how we get it on board.  If it's light enough for Storm to throw it any distance, then it'll have to lightweight enough for them to tear free."

The gnome scratched his head and rubbed his chin and finally let out a long sigh.

“We talk too much around this mission,  too many ifs and ors,  I think we
Should chose another exploration for now”

Wyn looks at the gnome in puzzlement.

"Do you mean leaving the smugglers be and perhaps deal with them another day?"

He looks around the table, "I'll admit that our planning has brought up more questions than answers.

If we do choose to leave it for another day, I would suggest that we still head to the old house and Telemachus can signal the ship to move on, so they will not be suspicious, and will return later on?"

"If they didn't get an answer, the information is that they'll just come back again for a few days," said Telemachus.  "It would be better not to wait, because we don't know that they won't hear the news, and the opportunity will be lost."

"They may be expecting to be boarded from the ones they think are running things at the house," he added.  "So there could be a delay in hostilities."

---

Wyn's eyes continue to move around the table, trying to gauge what his newfound companions were thinking.

"I am with Telemachus. We have a plan that should allow us to gain access to the ship from two fronts. If Telemachus' seaweed nets will immobilise some of those on the deck, we may capture them without bloodshed.

I am no weaver, but I know fishing and rope, I will start working on the nets right away."

"Aye," concurred Lenelle, to this new elf, whom she was beginning to feel more comfortable around, in spite of her initial suspicion.

"And, there is a spell I can cast after Mac's entanglement.   It can immobilize up to four of them, if it works.   For any who might escape the nets." 

"Well, if we are going to do it, let's do it.   We should head out for the old house so we'll be ready,  anyone who wants my armor spell, I'll start now, I already have one on myself.."

"I would really like your armor spell Panatix, if you would be willing to cast it on me," Westin says.

"By the way, I would like a several hours of solitude to transcribe some spells from Eliphas's spell book. Would that be ok?" he asks the group.

Pan casts phantom armor on Westin. "Don't get in any fights before we leave or you'll ruin the spell".

"If your spell is stronger than my leathers, then I will swap...it will make things easier in case I fall in the water too!"

With a sigh, Wick comes to his feet.  "Well, we're not going to accomplish anything sitting around here.  Any got anything they need to do before we head out?"

As the companions made their plans, the two men who had come to assist them before entered the Cat and Custard Pot, ready to give their assistance according to the plans made.

Having made their plans, Telemachus led the group that would be coming from the house--Storm, Michan, Banan, and Panatix to their location, gathering the seaweed for the nets along the way.

Wyn, Wick, Lenelle, and Westin (with Jade) set about finding their best location for being by-passed by the ship coming toward the old house so that they could make their approach, while also being able to see the signals that would come from on high at the old house so that they would know it was time to act.

At last, the night came, and the vessel--near 90 feet long and near 26 feet broad--made its way into the harbor.  There was a large main deck, with upper decks fore and aft.

Telemachus had been up in the room where they had once encountered Ric with the lantern, giving out the answering signal when the ship sent its signal.  Moving quickly downstairs after that, the group leaving from the old house to try to gain entry aboard the ship by being thought smugglers were ready to make their way across to the ship.

Storm does his usual devotion and prepares to face the greatest challenge in his life. For now at least.

As soon as the signal from the house is seen, Wyn starts to row. looking to approach the large ship from the stern if possible, and keeping to the seaward side in any case.

"The other boat will take their time in getting to the ship, as we planned. That should give us time to find a way onto the ship." Wyn whispered to the others, even though they all knew the plan.

The smaller boat from the house, oared by Telemachus, Storm, Michan, Banan, and Panatix made its steady way toward the larger ship as though transfer of cargo would be taking place.

The group in the other craft--Wyn, Wick, Lenelle, and Westin--managed to row silently across to get into position toward the aft, port-side.

Wick moves to the fore of the boat, getting ready to grab ahold of the ship, if there's anything to which to grab.  He glances upwards, looking to see if there's a convenient place to try with his rope.  He'd been known to climb up the side of a ship using daggers, but it was a chancy thing.

For the group at the stern of the ship, they could see the line connected to the anchor, but that was a little lower than they might like to use.  There was not, however, an obvious anchor that could be seen for a rope from their side of the other ship--perhaps that might be different if they had been on that deck.

Westin looked at the hull of the ship towering up out of the water. This was the one part of the plan he had been unsure of, at least for himself. How he would be able to reach the deck of the ship was clear to him. What was clear was if he was going to get up there, he would need help. Spider climb. If only he had a spider climb spell.

OOC:
Can Westin see the deck or at least part of the deck well enough to target a sleep spell, either where they are at or during the approach?

"Damn! No simple way up. What about tossing a rope over the rail, and letting it drop back down here? I can hold it taut for Wick to climb, and then he can fasten it to the rail and we can climb up after him?"

Wick nods towards the anchor chain.  "Let's move over there, if I can get up that chain, I have a lot better shot at climbing up the rest of the way."

Wick's plan is to climb up the anchor chain.  From there, he can hopefully climb the rest of the way.  He'll take his rope with him and can hopefully anchor it to the railing (without being spotted).

Wyn quickly shifts the boat's position to where Wick pointed.
"How's this?"

He listens for any sign that the other boat has raised any suspicions on the ship.

Lenelle watched, for the moment. Likewise alert for any hint that anyone on the ship was starting to realize that company was coming...

Storm keeps a sharp eye on the situation, occasionally using his sense evil as a form of radar.

Using the anchor, Wick was able to get aboard the ship.  The attention, at least for now, seemed to be toward the landward side, and for the moment, he was unnoticed.

The group that had come from the house made their way steadily toward the ship.  For this group, here was the weakest part in their plan--as their pretense of being the smugglers would not bear much scrutiny at all.

Being well skilled, Wick quickly makes the rope fast and drops the lose end to those below.  Then he moves quickly to whatever cover is at hand.  If nothing, then he’ll huddle down against the rail, trying to minimize his silhouette.

As the smugglers row up to meet the larger ship, Pan will speak in neither a whisper or a yell, "We saw the signal, lower the pilot's ladder, we have news".

As the faux-smugglers approached, the pilot's ladder dropped to their boat as they came close enough.  Those on the boat could see two men on the deck, seeming to be waiting for them.

Wick could see two crew members on the main deck, though their attention was clearly on the approaching boat from the house.

For Wyn, Westin, and Lenelle, the line set by Wick for their ascent was ready.

Westin waited nervously for his turn to climb up the rope. Unlike Wick, he was neither skilled in climbing nor eager to be among the first to ascend the rope. Let the others climb first. He didn't want to get stuck halfway up and block others. He also might need a hand up.

He momentarily reflected on the set of events that had led him here. All for the want of a spell. He looked at the others, waiting expectedly. When his turn came, he would be ready.

Soon the rope ladder is deployed, Pan climbs up it, he is small, and light, and has excellent dexterity, so moves quickly.

Wyn quickly secures the rope to the small boat. He is about to ascend the rope but stops.

"You two go first...if am last I can steady the rope...and help push you up if you have any problems climbing," he whispers, with a smile.

Lenelle would climb at whatever interval was appropriate.

She wasn't too heavily armored; still wearing the same studded leather she'd worn at the outset of all these events.   And although the clergy were not a profession known especially for agility and coordination, her own was near spectacular. The daughter of an elf as well as a professional thief, it was in the blood...

Once Lenelle and Westin had it made it to the deck, Wyn checked the knot on the boat, and then quickly climbed up to the deck.

Crouching down with the others, he looks around to determine how many crew members were visible, and to see or listen how the members of the other boat were doing.

With everyone on deck now and, hopefully, not being noticed, Wick starts looking around and let's the others keep watch on the crew.  The main thing, what sort of cover is available and what are the options for getting below deck.  He also keeps an eye out for anything that might be useful, weapon racks, nets...

While the group in the second boat made their way aboard the ship with relative ease, they could see that they were on the poop deck above the main deck, near the rudder.  Two humans were at the starboard side, looking toward shore--fortunately, they had approached from the port side.

They could see at the front of the ship a massive shape which was undoubtedly the capstan, with three humans--all likewise looking toward the shore.

On the main deck, they could see a jolly boat lashed to the deck just forward of the mast, with two humans who had just dropped a rope ladder over the side.

---

Panatix made his way onto the deck, climbing the rope ladder, with Michan close behind.

"How much can you carry?" said one of the men who had dropped the ladder when he looked at Panatix.

Westin climbed up the rope with difficulty. Light as he was, he wasn't exactly strong. Fortunately, though, he was young, quite young for an elf, and he was extremely dextrous which helped quite a bit. Once he reached the deck he immediately took whatever cover he could find.

It occurred to him, he didn't know exactly what would happen next. Obviously, it would be best to wait until everyone was on board. It was likely, though, that someone in his group would do or say something to initiate the fight plus there was a good chance one of the smugglers would make a stray glance and notice them. Criminals were apt to look around when engaging in their illegal deeds. He looked up at the lookout nest.

OOC:
Does the lookout nest appear to be manned? Is there anyone else visible on the ship other than the 2 humans?

This message was last edited by the player at 20:25, Sat 29 Jan 2022.

Westin looked up to the crow's nest--while it was occupied, it seemed that the occupant was completely focused on either the house or the boat approaching from the house.

Wyn stays crouched down, and does not speak. Rather he points to Westin, wiggles his fingers, mimicking spell casting, points to the two sailors on the other side of the poop deck, and then puts his hands to the side if his head.

"She isn't fast, or big, but she's very stable, she'll carry more than she looks. What'ave'ya got for us tonight?"

Westin casts sleep on the other 2 men on the poop. Once cast he immediately crouched down out of view or otherwise hides.

---

Wick takes a quick look around for some rope on deck, something he can carve a few lengths off, but he'll use his own rope if needs be.  Then he'll move forward and see about trussing up those that Wyn has put to sleep.  Easy enough to disable them now, but if they wake up and start a ruckus, well it'd be tougher to manage then.

Once trussed up, he leaves them alone.  He didn't want to risk waking them up by moving them or gagging them.  He glances around to see what the next steps should be, more of the crew that could quietly be disabled.  If nothing looks right on deck, he'll explore going below decks.

Wyn sees the two sailors collapse from Westin's spell, and holds his breath to see if anyone notices.

While Wicks moves across the poopdeck to tie them up, Wyn speaks quietly to Westin and Lenelle, "If Westin can do the same to the three at the bow, then we will have dealt with near half the crew!

It look like they won't wake normally?" he asks as he watches Wick tying up the two sailors with no sign that their slumber ended.

As Pan discusses the goods with the men at the rail, he waves down,  "T-Mac, bring the nets up with some muscle so we can lower the goods down gently, and be quick about it, we don't have all night".


ooc:  I see Mac hasn't logged in for awhile, I've kinda been waiting for him as he's been our de-facto leader.  Guess we just need to move along, I'm happy to NPC him till he returns if you want.  Storm and Michan should come up with Mac and the nets, leave Banan in the boat to hold it in place.  Once we are all on deck, toss those nets and let's start entangling some smugglers!

"Aye," she answered Wyn.  "I'm much impressed with his sleep magic. It's fantastic at reducing the spilling of blood.  Our own as well as others."

As Panatix tried to maintain the facade with the two men in the middle of the ship, Michan and Telemachus made their way up the ladder, with Storm ready to follow with the prepared nets.

"They're frauds!" called one of the men amidship.

---

At the stern, the two sleeping crewmen were easily restrained, while Wick started down to the main deck, finding that continuing within was complicated by the alarm having been raised by one of the men on the main deck near Panatix.

With the alarm raised, Wick takes a quick look around to see if he's been spotted.  In a harsh whisper to the others, "Got to keep the rest below, batten down the hatches."

Putting action to work, Wick looks to see how best to secure hatches and other access to below decks.  And if they can keep the alarm from spreading beyond those few on deck, well they shouldn't be that hard to deal with.

"I'm with you Wick." Turning to the casters, he quickly whispers, "Westin if you can deal with the group at the bow..."

If there are no hatches or doors on the poopdeck, Wyn will crouch and move toward the stairs/ladder leading to the main deck. He will wait for Telemachus' Entangle nets to be tossed before moving to the lower deck where he will bar doors and hatches as best he can.

Westin nods and stand high enough to be able to cast sleep at the 3 men on the bow. He looks to see it effect before hiding again. "It's been cast. They need to be secured and disarmed, otherwise someone may wake them. Don't forget the man in the lookout," he whispers back quietly.

OOC:
Cast sleep on the 3 men in the bow.

This message was last edited by the player at 03:11, Thu 10 Feb 2022.

In reply to Panatix (msg # 310):

When the boat docks, Storm carefully folds/arranges the nets to make them easy to carry. In addition, he reminds his friends to check their gear.

Turning to Mac, Storm says,"Perhaps a spell to silent our gear and movement will be ideal?"

OOC: Yes i think NPC him is good

From his position on the poop deck, Westin cast a spell again, though this time only one of the three fell.

"Get up you lazy dog," said one of the voices from the bow.

Before ascending to the ship, Telemachus had shaken his head at Storm's suggestion.  "Not a possibility for me.  Just get up and throw the net."

As Wick and Wyn had moved to secure the hatches from below, a bright light blossomed where they were.

"All hands to deck!" cried a voice from above.

"The nets! Throw the nets!" Wyn shouts, as he works to secure the hatches and doors on his side of the ship.

If he can complete that task, he will unsling his bow and send two arrows toward the sailor in the crows nest.

---

Attack rolls, just in case:
Wyn na'Keerla rolled 10 for 8 damage.
Wyn na'Keerla rolled 5.

New character, first two d20 rolls - same treatment from the dice roller!

Lenelle reached withing a belt pouch, fingers finding a small piece of iron that lay therein.  Softly invoking the will of Atu, she focused upon the two men on the front deck, that Westin didn't put to sleep...

Cast hold person on those two guys -- who will both save at -1, since I'm casting it on two instead of three.   Will last 6 rounds if successful.   
This message had punctuation tweaked by the player at 01:32, Tue 01 Mar 2022.

Westin looks up, trying to spot the lookout and see what they are doing he then looks back to the men on the poop deck and glances back at Lenelle, seeing that she is casting. He will give Wyn a hand if he needs it. Otherwise, he will stay alert and observe the fight as it unfolds, his dagger in hand.
This message was last edited by the player at 22:29, Wed 02 Mar 2022.

Storm threw the net that had been crafted, as Telemachus spoke, [Language unknown: "Alollo ndeno aveingpro]."

Neither of the two men at the bow seemed to be perturbed by the spell Lenelle cast, though the third man seemed to be sitting up and shaking his head after the rough awakening administered by one of those two.

Wyn, seeing that the watcher from the crow's nest was descending, sent an arrow into the lines above.  [Language unknown: "Fianivss Hotral"] could be heard.

As Wick worked to try to batten down the hatch, he felt a sting of pain, although he could not see what had caused this to happen. (-2hp Wick), as Michan yelped with pain as well.  As the net fell in the center of the main deck, the two men caught within worked to rip through this now-wriggling sea weed with their daggers.

"Hells!" Wyn cried out as something stung him.

[Assuming the hatches have been battened] Seeing the seaweed nets entangling the sailors on the main deck, Wyn focuses on the lookout descending from above and looses two more arrows.

The elf quickly slings hos bow onto his back, and draws his sword, ready to meet the sailors in melee combat.

---

Wyn na'Keerla rolled 22,hitting AC -3 for 6 damage.
Wyn na'Keerla rolled 13, hitting AC 6 for 4 damage.

Wick gives a grunt and a curse as he feels the bite.  He grits his teeth and continues to ensure the hatch is battened down.  "Get the guy in the rigging." he calls out to no one specifically, hoping they can at least keep the guy distracted until he can attend to it himself.

Westin looks up and starts waving his hand as stealthily as he can, fearful of feeling a sting of an arrow and having his spell spoilt.

OOC:
Cast sleep on the man descending from the crow's nest.


This message was last edited by the player at 02:59, Tue 15 Mar 2022.

The hatch had not been fully battened when Wick had felt the bite of an invisible dart, and any hope of completing the task was quickly squashed as it appeared that men were coming up from under the forecastle through a door.

As Westin's spell and the arrows from Wyn flew, the man descending from the crows' next fell to the deck with a thud and did not move.

Wyn slings his bow and draws his sword, moving to block the door; "Be ready Wick, more coming up!"

---

Hopefully Wick can get in position for a backstab!

After casting the net, Storm draws his magic mace and moves to engage any foe they may encounter.

OOC: ANy rolls to make?

Wick takes a quick glance around for any last minute inspirations.  Even if they could bar the door to the fo'c'sle, well it wouldn't be all that hard to break through.

Daggers at the ready, Wick moves to let Wyn take on anyone coming out directly while he would try for a coup de grâce from behind.  They didn't really have enough time to plan any more than that.

Westin ran over to the ladder leading up to the crows nest and started climbing up.

OOC:
How high is the crows nest? Can he cast a spell from the ladder or would he need to be in the nest?

The crow's nest is 40' up from the main deck.  Only a vocal-only spell (no somatic or material components) could be cast from the ladder.