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18:56, 28th March 2024 (GMT+0)

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground.

Posted by The DungeonmasterFor group 0
The Dungeonmaster
GM, 19 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 01:10
  • msg #1

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

The journey so far had occurred with little incident and a considerable amount of favor from Selune, who’d blessed The Swanmay with a map of crystalline stars against black velvet sky. By day, the crew cleaned the decks, and managed the daily tasks of maintaining a merchant ship. By night, they also worked, following a route illuminated by guiding stars, while a select few maintained the night watch. Their trade route began in Corymyr, ending in the wealthy nation of Sembia.

Captain Amara McKeel ran The Swanmay with an exacting attention to detail, and no reluctant to wield a tongue as sharp as any rapier when the sailors bungled a task. However, her tongue was commensurately as honeyed when they performed their jobs well. Perhaps one day brought groans and bickering, but there were more times when laughter and song was heard. Amara hired only men and women that she trusted, even if not always liked. Among their number were a motley collection of travelers who either joined for a short-lived job, or needed passage by ship for reasons of their own: Azatch the Half-Orc, Cela the Tabaxi, Grog the Minotaur, Lenelle the Half-Elf, and three humans named Simon, Sundos, & Moonsong.

Shortly before the third week, the good luck of The Swanmay reached a cacophonous end. Gone was Selune’s grace, as Umberlee unleashed her wrath upon the ship! Darkened clouds portended troubles, as a hurricane soon slammed The Swanmay close to an undesirable region known as “The Vast Swamp”. Furious winds buffeted the ship, as Captain and crew desperately fought to save it and themselves from Umberlee’s rapacious embrace! Only a last-minute act of steering toward an estuary saved them all from death.

The Swanmay and her crew would live to sail again...but not any day soon. The ship suffered considerable damage to the hull and sails, and ran aground on a marshy bank facing what surely must have been an endless stretch of swamp...

Amara
NPC, 1 post
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 01:17
  • msg #2

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

“The Bitch Queen had her way with my poor ship!” A thick-bodied beauty groaned in an alto that somehow managed to make complaining sound silken. Amara McKeel, Captain of The Swanmay, shook her head as she surveyed the outcome of the hurricane. She checked in on her crew, looking at the most wounded with concern. “How are you? If you’re unhurt, help someone who wasn’t as lucky.”
Grog
Fighter, 14 posts
Minotaur
Rune Knight
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 01:33
  • msg #3

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

Grog may not typically be a heavy sleeper, but something about the boat swaying in the breeze was so calming... he spent most of the trip quite asleep.  Not that the crew spent much time trying to keep him 'helpful' given his lack of sea-hooves on the deck would mean a rather difficult time getting back from the water.

That said, even Grog found it odd he could sleep through a shipwreck.  Not that he knew that when he woke up.  It looked like he missed a party, and he was upset to be left out until he got above deck.  "Oh."  He dropped the 'drunk' he hauled up to use as his complaint, water getting smashed from his lungs.  "Need thew?"
Amara
NPC, 2 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 01:41
  • msg #4

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

A half-drowned sailor hacked up water as he stared up at the Minotaur with eyes pleading to let the recently passed hurricane take him instead. Amara ran over and took his arm around her shoulder. NO! She yelled that in a tone one usually saved for a dog that shit the rug. She remembered his condition, though, and forced a smile. “Go help your friends,” she said, motioning toward Lenelle.
Simon
Warlock, 11 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 01:51
  • msg #5

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

Simon glances at the sudden production of more water in the marsh and shrugs, then examines the swamp in front of him, "Pity, probably only eels in that. Still, better than nothing." With that, he sits, and changes his boots, putting on his hip waders.
Grog
Fighter, 15 posts
Minotaur
Rune Knight
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 02:00
  • msg #6

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

'Not friend.' Grog considered to himself.  Not that it stopped him from heading over to see if Lenelle needed that brawn he offered the captain regardless.

Grog made his way over to Lenelle.   If she was unfortunate enough to be laying down, she got a rough pat on the back.  He wasn't being helpful so much as getting her attention.  If she was awake, he'd just silently attempt to join in whatever she was working on until told otherwise.  It was something to do after all.
The Dungeonmaster
GM, 21 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 02:04
  • msg #7

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

The brackish odor of marsh water wafted toward Simon on a gentle breeze. The calm wind belied the rage of the previous hour. Amidst groans of the wounded, and the able-bodied shaking off the ordeal, Simon found a spot where he could test his fishing skill.

OOC: Roll a Survival check and find out!
Simon
Warlock, 12 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 02:27
  • msg #8

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

In reply to The Dungeonmaster (msg # 7):

OOC:
Truthfully, I was just trying to keep his feet dry...

19:26, Today: Simon rolled 16 using 1d20+4.  Eel fishing .

Sundos Brightblood
Cleric, 4 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 02:36
  • msg #9

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

Sundos was afraid to wear is armor while on the ship. Every time he looked over the edge of the ship, he was glad he wasn't wearing it. He usually kept his mace close at hand an always wore an amulet.

Sundos made his way to the most wounded person he could see. With gentle words, he checked the injuries. "You will be alright. Let me look and see what happened to you."
Azatch
Barbarian, 5 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 02:38
  • msg #10

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

Azatch did what he could during the storm, but he was no sailer. But the emergency energized him. The brutality of the tempest. A contest of will between himself and nuture. He told Amara of Deadwater, the place of his nativity.  She probably already knew it was there, but all the same.

"I'd be careful wading out there. Lizards so big, they'll bite you in two. Some of them might even say 'hello' before they do."
The Dungeonmaster
GM, 22 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 02:46
  • msg #11

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

Simon wouldn’t find eels, but he caught a bass. The cook could fry it up for dinner. A few fish brushed his thighs as he braved the waters near the ship. A heron descended on a tree stump roughly sixty feet away. Its beak darted into the water, plucking out a fish.

A sandbar stretched in a thin line that broke the waters between the ship and shore. Simon saw a tree-line that grew denser, and imposing, as far as the eye could see...
Amara
NPC, 3 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 02:55
  • msg #12

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

Amara shook her head. “Never heard of Deadwater. Sounds more like ‘Backwater’, no offense,” she said with a shrug. Then, she titled her head sideways as she pondered that information. “Still, if you know the area, you could lead a small group there and get supplies so we can repair the ship. We’ll need pitch, timber, or at least more saws and axes for cutting down a few trees.”
Moonsong
NPC, 1 post
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 03:03
  • msg #13

Re: Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

Sundos Brightblood:
Sundos  made his way to the most wounded person he could see. With gentle words, he checked the injuries. "You will be alright. Let me look and see what happened to you."


Sundos noticed that nobody died, although twelve were bruised, and suffered broken bones and cuts. His ministrations were welcomed with a few grateful grunts from the wounded. A slender woman with flaxen hair knelt beside him. “As always, your first instinct is to think of others.” Moonsong smiled, as she offered her assistance in treating the injured.
Azatch
Barbarian, 6 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 03:07
  • msg #14

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

"Of course no offense. This place isn't even a smudge on a map and it smells like shit. Nobody chooses the loins they come screaming out of." Azatch looks toward Deadwater, "They should have tools like that. Also, if we do come across any lizard folk, we might be able to barter for tools, they are cunning artisans."

Azatch thinks for a moment, "So, nobody died?"

OOC: How far away does Azatch estimate they are from Deadwater? Sorry if I missed it.
The Dungeonmaster
GM, 23 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 03:21
  • msg #15

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

Although Azatch abandoned his hometown, he knew the area. From the estuary, he figured the river would lead to Deadwater in a half-day’s journey.
Lenelle Toreth
Sorcerer, 9 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 04:02
  • msg #16

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

Shaken by the primal fury of the elements, as well as the untoward landing of the ship, (into a region of swampland no less), the hood that Lenelle normally kept raised had fallen backward.    Her expression was a mix of shock and concern; but the latter rose to the fore and impelled her to act.

She knelt attentively by a crewman who groaned, clasping painfully his broken arm.    There were lacerations visible through the rents in his tunic as well.

"Easy, easy," she soothed.  "I'm going to help."  One slender, lightly tanned hand went upon his shoulder, and she drew a breath, centering herself as much she could, under the circumstance.

"Ny'ess kor eltra; mor aleis veraul," she spoke under her breath; light spilled from betwixt her finger tips, rose and gold hued, not unlike the dawn.

Cure Wounds - I'm supposing a roll is irrelevant here, but will if it's needed.

She let go a breath as the spell began to take effect, and the pain in the man's face began to visibly ease, cuts closing and ceasing to bleed.     It was only then she realized the minotaur was looming over her.   It was as close to him as she'd been during the trip.   She glanced up, smiling, realizing he was looking to be helpful.

"How are you holding up, Grog?  Ever been to a swamp, before?"
Grog
Fighter, 16 posts
Minotaur
Rune Knight
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 04:17
  • msg #17

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

The visible confusion on Grog's face as he attempts to mimick your aid will be quickly wiped off his face with a smile as he responds with a shake of his head and some cheer in his voice. "Kine avoid."  "New flavors.  No talk with dinner."

Having decided he was helpful enough to count, he'll give an annoyed glance twords the trees, then the captain, his arms, and with a shake of his head he'll make his way back down below to his gear, conveniently above the water line by merit of sharing his hammock space.  He takes his time to prepare all his gear, planning to depart.
Lenelle Toreth
Sorcerer, 11 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 04:51
  • msg #18

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

Lenelle watched Grog leave, a little bemusedly.   Realizing she did not understand him, but thinking that she would make an attempt to. He - all of these fellow travelers - had suddenly become people she'd likely have to depend upon.

She'd overheard the dialog between Captain Amara and the half-orc, who apparently was a native of this region.   It wasn't encouraging, what she heard.  But, there were worse places to be stranded --  the Nine Hells?  She sighed, continued to aid anyone in need, and not otherwise attended to.

Once that was through, she went to collect her things, and prepare to get acquainted with Deadwater.   Come for the bog -- stay for the giant lizards?  Ugh!
Amara
NPC, 4 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 05:36
  • msg #19

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

Amara stared at the Vast Swamp, a landscape that accomplished the unlikely feat of looking lush and wretched at the same time. Another glance around the ship and her face reflected her decision. With a sigh, she nodded. “Alright. I don’t care for losing several mates while The Swanmay is in such sorry shape. It can’t be avoided, though.”

She reached up a hand and touched Azatch’s shoulder. “Lead a party to your hometown for supplies, maybe see if you can bring back help if they remember you fondly. If not...well, don’t let any swamp dirt gather under your boots.” She gestured toward the newest members of the crew: Cela, Grog, Lenelle, Simon, and Sundos. She couldn’t remember if the fair-haired woman in the Druid’s robes came with them or not.

“Take a few of the newcomers with you.”
Sundos Brightblood
Cleric, 5 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 14:23
  • msg #20

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

Sundos nodded to Amara, "Aye, Captain. Let me just finish with him." Sundos finished healing the last badly injured crew member.

"Let me go get my gear."  With that, Sundo headed below decks to put on his armor and gather his gear. He has leaned from his time in the army to bring all of his traveling gear. Who knows when they will make it back to the ship.
Cela
Monk, 4 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 15:37
  • msg #21

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

"It definitely smells like a swamp."  Cela says.  The comment about boots bothers her a little - Cela doesn't wear shoes, they interfere with climbing.  "What kind of lizards are they?"  She asks Azatch.  Cela can speak Goblin.  Azatch can probably speak Orc.  Can they get their supplies from the lizards?

And when Sundos heads belowdeck, she asks "Could you grab my pack too?"  She keeps her things packed most of the time.
Grog
Fighter, 19 posts
Minotaur
Rune Knight
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 16:45
  • msg #22

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

Grog had most of his gear strapped to his backpack (outside of what he was going to wear)  by the time Sundos came down.  Grog had donned the under-armor for his chainmail, and was inscribing a rune onto the right glove.  When Cela followed down briefly afterward, Grog had finished this rune.

quote:
"Could you grab my pack too?"
Grog looks up the stairway twords Cela briefly with a serious expression, then reaches over and grabs her gear from it's resting spot.  He brings it up (along with taking the rest of his gear with him) and offers it to her looking like he just won a prize.

After Cela takes her pack, Grog will shift to inscribing a second (different) rune onto a visible spot on his bag...  A spot that has clearly seen the same rune there before.


((OOC: Now that you mention it Cela, Grog doesn't wear boots either.  They just aren't designed for hooves.))

((EDIT: Re-writing to fix a mis-read.))

This message was last edited by the player at 18:53, Tue 06 Apr 2021.
Sundos Brightblood
Cleric, 7 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 18:37
  • msg #23

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

"Sure, Cela, I will get your pack."  Sundos liked Cela. He didn't know her very well yet.  But he knew she served in an army, like he did. Like him, her time in the military has changed her.

For Sundos, his faith in Pelar grew deeper and more profound with the things he witnessed and did in the his King's army. That was how he dealt with things.

He thought it strange that Cela didn't have any armor and didn't seem to have very many weapons. Sundos still used his armor, shield and weapons he learned in the army. True, he no longer carried a spear, he liked having a shield. And as a sergeant he didn't stand in the with a spear like he did as a fresh recruit.

Heading down the stairs, he was a little surprised to see Grog coming up the stairs with Cela's pack. "Oh.. I was... never mind, Grog." He stepped aside and allowed the larger Grog to go up and past him on the stairs before heading down to get his own gear.
Moonsong
NPC, 2 posts
Tue 6 Apr 2021
at 18:50
  • msg #24

Chapter 1: Battered Down & Run Aground

When Sundos returned to the deck, Moonsong awaited him. “You are joining the away party, then? Will Simon go, too?” The trio had traveled the Sword Coast earlier in the year, experiencing their own adventures with two who went their own way (for the time being) after uncovering s conspiracy in Baldur’s Gate.

The job with Amara was hard work, but work of the mundane variety. Sundos found that time cultivated his faith through physical labor and ministry for the crew. It also offered time to further cultivate friendship, if such was his wish. The fair-skinned woman from the Northern Isles regarded Sundos as a friend, and hoped that she could call Simon the same. Crystalline blue eyes watched him for his answer.
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