To Foreign Lands [IC]

[Daevah]

OOC Thread

To Foreign Lands

"Welcome to the Mistwalker!" is the first thing that greets you before you even set foot on the ship. It is beautiful weather and Akir's need for storms and waves seems to be calm today, instead sending a fresh, brisk breeze rife with salt that tugs playfully at every loose piece of clothing and rope.

It is a sailor, a curious, charming Halfling named Bird, that welcomes you onto the beautiful carrack ship ready to leave port at any hour and the hustle on board is as hectic as it had been all along harbor at this hour of the morning. He points out some places on it as you walk across, "You'll get food here, be careful there, don't touch the Captain's helm even as a joke!", then leads you down to where there are four seperate group cabins for the passengers they ferry across. You are lead into the first one on the right and presented with one of at least a dozen hammocks and a little bolted down chest below it for items you want extra safe on the one and a half day trip.

You have heard of the Mistwalker either in passing or more detail. A ship captained by a tough, stout dwarf is a novelty and it helped it gain recognition quickly as a reliable passenger (and, occasionally, goods) transporter. You caught a glimpse of Captain Thunderfist up above for a second, a leathery ball of red hair, blue tattoos and a lot of bark as he had ordered his crew around.

Bird smiles at you, tugs at the little leather cap he wears above his tanned, bald head and walks backwards out the door. "More things to do before the start. Enjoy the ride! Feel free to walk around once the signal comes, but if you need to barf, we'd welcome you do it over the railing, aye?"

You are left alone and free to settle in, with several other curious passengers all around, merchants, travellers, sailors, do the same.

When the signal comes, you can feel it in every piece of wood that shudders around you against the onslaught of saltwater. The journey has started, the ship is on its way.

Port Alvar is behind you - maybe even forever.

_________

Spoiler: Eva

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For the first time in a long while you feel your shoulders relax. You had made it onto the ship, in the early morning nonetheless, and your gamble that they wouldn't expect you to be so 'stupid' to show yourself in daylight to flee the city had paid off, as your hunter's lackeys had been as lax as you expected them to be at this hour.

The hints you dropped that you would move to Elluveh's Salvation had done its own as well. You know it's only a matter of time before they sniff out your true route, but for the moment you are safe.

You feel weighted by what you know, what has brought you to this point. A simple overheard comment had thrown your life as it is into turmoil, but that is just how things are for a spy, aren't they? You do not understand why your mentor has changed from a man you knew almost like a second father to a stranger with beliefs and actions you cannot reconcile with the man you have come to know. How the tables has turned...

But no matter. You need to see what your next step is. There is a good number of taverns where you can turn music played into a room and meal, but maybe simply paying to stay under the radar first would make things harder for possible pursuers. They would expect you to turn to turn to a middle class tavern, as it is up to your standards, but maybe staying in a more ramshackle place would throw them off. You just need to find one.

Your not sure what you will do with the information you have. It is critical and you know you will be hunted for it.

But for now - you will have to do everything to stay alive.

Spoiler: Adegan

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Purpose.

That is what you have, what you feel in your flesh and bones, in the tendons that stretch as you close your hands around the coin in your hand. This is a new beginning, the new start of a journey that you will not know the end of, but you will have to make it. The world outside is calling and though fear burns its way across your neck at the thought of what could await you out there, you do not feel daunted to stop.

Hyaral has given you what your father has never managed to. He fills you with an acceptance and a respect that you are more than your birthright, more than the blood in your veins. He fills you with hope and belief, that the world out there is open for you, that your own words and deeds will bring change and goodness and light and that this will be the only worth that you need. That you are worthy. Showing you the door and giving you a firm nod that you will have to make the steps outside yourself, but that He will be beside you all the way.

The knowledge of leaving behind everything you know does burn, that you may not see your mother or Hyaral's Children for a long while to come. But this is your way for now and you know they would accept it. Encourage you even.

There is a temple you know of in Corvar, a place that may be willing to give you shelter and aid. You do not know your first steps yet or where to go when on land... but there is time.

Now, all you have is time, for yourself and the Golden Wanderer guiding your way. A new journey has begun.

Spoiler: Valerian

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It is frustrating to have come all this way only to know your mark has already slipped past your fingers. It is money spent for nothing when you could have waited in Port Corvar to grab him up the second he had left the ship instead of making your way all across the Paw. You haven't been in the Twin cities before and only stayed in Corvar long enough to hire the next best ship over to where you know your mark has gone (and you had proof, at least it wasn't a total lost cause), but now you will have to slow down and pick up the trail anew.

What is more, you found out someone else has started the hunt. The merchant you found that had the information you were seeking sat beat up in prison, refusing to talk about who had put him there, but reluctantly telling you about the murderer he had supplied with poison. Now you know your mark isn't working alone anymore and that the stakes have been raised. A lot of people died and to hunt two instead of one... there is a much greater danger there. The itch to move faster, to hunt quicker, is itching you, to finally bring justice to those who dare harm others in such terrible ways, but... patience. The trip will take a day and then you have to dig out the next lead.

You know a guy who told you about a tavern in the city that holds information, as he had put it, friends. Even in a at first glance crime-free city as Port Corvar there is a thieves' guild working in and behind the shadows, the Nightwell, and while you don't have a name to seek out per se, you're pretty sure that the Scuttle tavern is your best start.

For now, you can lean back, pause, get some rest. The ship will not move any faster on sheer willpower.

You will get them. It is only a matter of time and as an elf, you have more of that than they do.

Spoiler: Nicolai

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It is a strange feeling to be on a ship again that is your own and it distracts you sufficiently from your guilt. Was it really the best cause of action to leave Nahara behind? To leave for new shores, go out into the world at your age? But taking up the sword had felt good and right and you can't deny that something is drawing you away.

Maybe she would stay and curb her wanderlust. Maybe she would pick up her own things, set out on a ship and travel to far lands. You both needed something now that was more than idyllic town life could offer a father and daughter and you believe that you raised her right (or at least helped her natural instincts), as she is a strong, clever and charming young lady. You worry a bit because people sometimes don't do well with her kind, but you have to trust that she will be able to protect herself the way you taught her.

For now, you are on your own again... or rather, for the first time in a long while. You always had a ship, a crew, a daughter, a purpose. Now you find yourself lacking any of that, but it is the start of something new that you had been hoping for.

Captain Thunderfist might not quite be an old friend, but you had shared many drinks and stories at the tavern tables and lost one or the other hand of cards against him. A dwarven captain was as rare as a mermaid swimming through sand, but he was a fellow captain and a good one, it was to be respected. When you had asked him for passage, he had immediatedly offered a hammock free of charge for the good old times. And called you a crazy old fool for getting back out there. The Scuttle tavern at the harbor would be your first stop for the night once you are off the ship, but after that?

But out there is where you need to be. You don't know what will come next and maybe you don't need to just yet.

For now, you will go where the winds will take you.

Spoiler: Throdeshi

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You had learned Elluveh's scriptures and beliefs every day for a long while and while your faith has not been turned away from her, you know it might not be her hand that shields you. Since you have joined the little Akir temple by the shore weeks ago, you had felt at home like never before. Storm and ice, fire and thunder, that was what got your blood roaring and it felt right down to each and every scale on your body and the teachings, while they can be seen harsh in some eyes, are showing you a fundamental truth about the world and its forces you hadn't been able to see before. Tempest Kissed, they called it and you have embraced it.

It is Akir's name and symbol you carry now and you will show the world that the Tempest is not an evil thing. Those who have dared to name you Assissa's charge, they will learn a new truth soon as well and while you do not seek revenge, you're looking forward to the day they will see you and acknowledge the wrongs they caused.

You enjoyed their company very much and as much as learning pleased you, being a Cleric of Akir entailed one thing in particular: challenging the world. Akir is not a god that sits and rests, He is a force that moves constantly, and while it isn't His wish to start a fight for the fight's sake, He does want His followers to hone their proverbial blade against forces that are stronger than you. Shargath can take those who sit at home at their hearthfire and tend their fields, it is those that challenge nature in all its forms undaunted that earn the God's respect.

And now it is your turn to hone yourself out there. Finding a ship had been easy and Captain Thunderfist had welcomed you as a Cleric of Akir with open arms, believing his ship to be safe from storm and trouble. You don't tell him that Akir, when it comes to His powers, does not treat His believers any different, but if it makes the Captain happy...

There is a temple in Corvar that you can visit if you were to seek shelter and take up your first steps in the world outside the Paw. But Akir helps those who help themselves. It is time to show your temple, Elluveh's Chosen, even your family and yourself, that you are up to the task.

Spoiler: Yokin

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You know that half the older sailors on this ship know who you are the moment you step on it. The Cutting Edge was a famed vessel and your mother's imprisonment a thing that was talked about for ages. That her son was imprisoned himself and then turned sailor made its way into the scuttlebutt now and then, but it is because you served well and proudly that Captain Thunderfist allows you to have free passage on his ship, despite your magical rumors. But every ship is different and while one crew sees your abilities as a sign of bad luck, another might appreciate the advantages they come with. The Mistwalker seems to be the latter kind, if they care at all.

But it is also on this ship that you remember why you are leaving this place for good. Seeing one sailor turn to another and whisper makes you aware that in the Twin Ports you are no blank piece of paper and that every step you do will be weighted by your past, good and bad. Out there you are a new person, a stranger, one that can proof his own worth with no strings attached to any past.

Port Corvar has a nice (terrible) tavern frequented by sailors that you've stayed at before and you're sure you can get Captain Bart to cheapen the price for your room again, then again, the last time you had beat him at cards might still be stuck in his memory. It's not your fault you had quick fingers and a poker face.

Your new life will begin once you set foot on dry land for a long time coming. There is a sense of novelty about the whole situation, a sense of adventure, and while it won't be easy to set out on your own for what is probably the first time in your life, it is a challenge you're going to take up.

It was time to make your own name in the world.

Spoiler: Medrash

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The memory of the fight, no, the slaughter, is still heavy in your mind and you keep it fresh and sharp like your handaxes. You have seen many fights, both for training and for survival, but this one had cut too close to the bone.
You tracked the thieves and murderers and found yourself at the harbor, frustrated and angry that mere water halts your search for those that dared to lay hand on your tribe in such a cowardly way. But you tell yourself to be patient. The time for your hammer to find its target will come and rage is best spared for the enemy.

For a day or two you were directionless and it had taken a tavern brawl started by a cocky sailor boy for you to find it again, as a tattooed dwarf and you had beaten each other to a standstill inbetween broken chairs and people. Captain Thunderfist (and boy, did he earn his name) had laughed and slapped a hand on your thigh after you had knocked each other out cold for a short moment, then offered you cheap passage to Port Corvar if you ever needed one. And you did.

You know they would not have stayed in Port Alvar, not with what they had stolen. But no matter where they would run, you are resilient and relentless in your hunt. You didn't know where to pick your search back up and after sharing a drink or two with Captain Thunderfist at a table that had survived the brawl, he had advised you to seek out the Scuttle at the harbor in Corvar. Cheap rooms, cheap drinks, cheap people, but rich with information if you knew where to look. They would know where your prey went.

You swore you would bring the tears back to the Falcon's Cry and honor the memory of your mother and the other members.

There is no if you find them. There is only a when. And you would be the one to make them pay.

[Lokio]

Eva Sharp slipped into her hammock with a sigh. How had everything changed so fast? It was the stuff of storybooks, and yet here she lay - adrift from her life, wearing armour for the first time in as long as she could remember, a rapier at her hip, a black cloak wrapped around her, and traveler's boots?

What had her life, once so stunning, become?

And if they found her, what then? Would she have to kill? The idea made her sick to her stomach. She was no soldier.

Rest. Enjoy the ride. For now, she was mostly safe. Curious eyes scanned the passengers, and for the first time in a while, she let herself relax.

[Seanfall]

Medresh opened the chest and deposited most of his belongings, he kept his weapons on him along with the bone carved pan flute. He was silent to any others in the room. Too much on his mind. How odd it was that a tavern brawl had led him to where he needed. The large white scaled Dragonborn suspected the spirits had aided him in finding the captain. Perhaps they wanted vengeance as much as he did. He chuckled as he thought about that fight, he didn't know Dwarves could pack such a punch. Had the captain not already told him otherwise Medrash would have assumed he was a lost member of one of the northern tribes.

Medresh found himself on the ships deck staring out over the water. He was getting closer, he could feel it. But something nagged at the back of his mind, a worry. When hunting you need to know everything you can about your prey. How they think, how they move. He didn't even know their names or if they were being backed by another. Or a group of others, didn't matter he had to keep following the trail before it grew to cold.

[Gryndel]

Yokin sighs softly at some of the looks from other sailors. He'd come to terms with his past, and while it still bothered him at times, he was set on a path to take him far from his past, or so he hoped. But he'd also concluded that no matter how far from sea he went, his past would follow him in some form. The first steps on his new path were certain to be hard ones, but he was determined to make something else of himself.

He secures his place in the cabin, puts his pack in the chest, then looks around at the others in the room. Having noticed the Bronze Dragonborn he walks over and says with a big grin, "Throdeshi Damatir, is it really you? Why, I haven't seen you for years! Strange how fate works sometimes, eh? It's good to see a familiar face."

Once the ship starts to move he says, "Lets go on deck and watch the shore recede, something that usually cheers me up."

[Nettlekid]

Valerian nods to the Halfling, relinquishing a scrap of paper given to him to serve as a ticket, and uncertainly steps onto the rocking deck of the ship. Not in the best mood after having been given the run-around, his weight shifting atop the waves causes him to stumble every now and then. His childhood was the forests with flexible earth and backdrops of green and brown where his skin let him melt away into nothing. His adulthood had taken him out of his comfort zone, but for the most part it had been sturdy cobblestones and patterned streets, or paved roads alongside carriages. Rigid planks and a limited deck beyond which empty ocean cut off the notion of quick escape didn't make him very comfortable, nor did having a Dwarf at the helm. What child of the earth would wilfully leave the land behind? As far as Valerian was concerned, they couldn't make berth in Port Corvar soon enough. It wouldn't be a restful trip, but he would have to save his energy for the footwork to be done shortly.

Valerian follows Bird below deck to the cabins, hoping that removing the waves from view would help calm him a little. It didn't - he could still feel the gentle sway, and the claustrophobic interior of the ship only reminded him that there was nowhere to run out to outside. He's traveling light, and doesn't have anything he wants to store inside the secured chest. He takes a quick leap and pulls himself into a higher hammock, letting the sway of the hammock disguise the movement of the ship. Out of the corner of his eye he looks over the other passengers filing into the cabin. He's surprised to see three people of obviously Draconic ancestry, and that by the sound of their conversation they aren't here together. The others...a tough looking Human, wearing surprisingly sturdy armor. Is he expecting to need it? Of course Valerian is wearing his armor as well, but he has reason to. Another Human...or no, he has Elf blood in him too, quite handsome. And a woman of similar heritage, unassuming apart from being similarly attractive, and for the weapon at her waist. Are they together? Perhaps not, if the holy symbol around the man's neck meant he was a priest of some sort. He hopes they keep to themselves.

[3bodyproblem]

Adegan smiled widely as he felt the boat lurch from the dock.

Can't say this is how I planned to leave the city, but thank Hyaral I'm on the move again.

He patted his pocket again, feeling a surge of confidence - and, for a second, a fleeting sensation of something more, something important - as his fingers brushed against Hyaral's coin. Although he felt a slight sense of urgency and unease, he shook his head and put his belongings into the chest pointed out by Bird.

Adegan looked around the cramped quarters, taking note of his fellow cabin-mates. Two of them, a Half-Elf and a Dragonborn, appeared to be quite friendly with each other. Another - a large, dangerous looking white Dragonborn - had already left the berth.

Of those who remained, Adegan noted a lithe Elf in leather armour maneuvering his way into one of the top hammocks, a grizzled-looking warrior, and a surprisingly familiar looking Half-Elven woman.

Not exactly your normal travelers, although...I suppose I stick out too, what with my arms and armour. Adegan rubbed his neck sheepishly.
Still, though - someone must've thought to put us all in here, so we wouldn't spook the other passengers too much.

Seeing that the Elf and Half-Elf wee content to stick to themselves for the time being, he fished a single gold coin out of his pouch and approached the human.

"May your roads be safe..." Adegan held out the coin, and waited for the human to finish the standard blessing of Hyaral.

[Phelan Boots]

"Throdeshi Damatir, is it really you? Why, I haven't seen you for years! Strange how fate works sometimes, eh? It's good to see a familiar face." Throdeshi stared at the half-elf intently. He looked oddly familiar, in fact he reminded Throdeshi of one of the older boys who had lived at the temple where he grew up. "Wait a minute...YORKERS?!
Do you people still call you Yorkers? I haven't seen you since you filled Headmaster Relmevik's privy with rats! HAHA, I wish I could have seen his face when he opened the lid! Let me settle my things in and catch up with you."

Throdeshi stowed his things in the chest beside his hammock and excitedly turned back to his old acquaintance as the ship started moving. He had only just secured passage as they were preparing to depart. The captain had said they were leaving soon, but Throdeshi hadn't realized just how soon.

"Lets go on deck and watch the shore recede, something that usually cheers me up."

Throdeshi hadn't seen Yorker's since he'd been "encouraged to seek a life outside the temple" as the priests would say. How odd a coincidence that two cast outs from Elluveh should find their way back together on a boat headed back to Corvar. Lost in thought, it took Throdeshi a moment to realize that the half-elf had said something.

"Whats that? Oh, the deck seems like an excellent idea to me. Tell me, they say you became a sailor after you left the temple orphanage. Is this the boat you sail on?

[LuckyStrike]

The mixed bag of feelings were hard to describe. There was so much going on in Nicolai when he set foot on the ship that he almost felt overwhelmed. The familiar feel, the men and women at work, the smells. Little details that he’d forgotten about but knew in the fiber of his being.
He made his way down and decided to stay there for an hour or two. He figured it was best to stay out of the sailors way while they’d set sail, and later on he would take a look up on deck again.

The cabin was like most he knew. Low ceiling, hammocks, not a lot of light. Function before fashion. Nicolai sought out a hammock of his own and put his things in the chest. His sword and shield in the hammock, and he sat down on the chest to look around.

The people were varied and it was a motley bunch indeed. He scanned them quickly and unassuming, not wanting to be staring at anyone in particular.

This proved hard when a certain half elven man walked in. He had brown skin, black hair and a ponytail. There was something very familiar about him, but Nicolai couldn’t put his finger on it. He was too young to have sailed under him, although with half elves it was hard to tell. No, Nicolai prided himself on the fact that he knew everyone that sailed under him by heart, and this young man had most certainly not. But what was it then, that made him stand out?

Nicolai’s musings were interrupted when another half elf approached him. He seemed charming and Nicolai looked him over while Adegan made his introduction. He decided he liked this traveller and took the offered coin.

"And your final destination never within a days reach.” Nicolai finished the saying, knowing there were several acceptable answers to this travellers blessing, but this was the one he preferred most. He pocketed the gold coin, and set it apart from his coin purse. He didn’t want it get mingled up with his petty cash. It was a token, more than money, and Nicolai knew enough to appreciate the difference.

He smiled and nodded back at Adegan and extended his hand. The skin felt like old leather and paper, but his hands were calloused and strong. By the looks of it, this tall, muscular Half-Elf could hold his own, so Nicolai felt no need to hold back in the exchange and gave a heartful strong shake.

“The name is Nicolai Gates. Pleased to meet you stranger. Is Corvar your destination or but a station in-between?"

[Gryndel]

"Yokin, actually," the half elf replies with a smile, "and yes, I went to sea and learned to be a sailor. Quite exciting at times, with many boring days of drudgery between."

He looks around the deck and approaches the port railing, "This is my first time on this ship. I served aboard another for some time in my teen years, but as I matured I began experiencing strange powers that seemed to come from within me. At first I had a hard time controlling them, and the superstitious crew began complaining to the Captain about it. Well, I had little to say in my defense and soon found myself ashore again. After a short time of wallowing in debauchery and laziness, I decided to make a change in my life, which ultimately led me here. So tell me, why are you here?"

[Seanfall]

Medrash watched the land behind him shrink. It might be the last time he looked upon them, he intended to return. But then again he had never thought he'd leave his tribe in the first place. His anger abated a moment replaced with a sense of sadness, a tight clutching in the chest as his world changed yet again. He felt he should say something. Never good with words he instead reached into the folds of his furs and pulled out a pan flute, it was clearly carved and formed from bone. On it's side one could make out a falcon lightly carved into the side.

The Dragonborn put the flute to what passed for lips and began to play. It was the same song he had played when they had given Kara to the sky. The music started off low with a somber tone, but as it progressed. It became lighter and faster, to simulate the flight one's spirit would take once freed of it's shell. It was at the end, a tune meant to give one hope for what was to come.

Spoiler

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Pan Flute
(1d20+2)[6]

[Daevah]

Standing on moving ground is a very... unusual feeling for Medrash. It causes him to sway and as he tries not to lose his footing, concentrating on both standing upright and playing his song, many notes get missed or lost in the seabreeze. Still, he powers through.
From the slight winces of the sailors around him, it seems some wish he hadn't.

Port Alvar, meanwhile, slowly gets smaller and smaller in the distance.

[3bodyproblem]

"And your final destination never within a days reach.”

Adegan grinned appreciatively at his conversation partner - the response was favoured among those who traveled extensively. Reaching for the traveler's hand, Adegan was surprised to find that his grasp was met with a grip as firm as his own.

“The name is Nicolai Gates. Pleased to meet you stranger. Is Corvar your destination or but a station in-between?"

"Adegan Wolfe - the pleasure is mine." He paused for a brief moment and furrowed his brows, contemplating the answer to his companion's question. "It sounds strange, but I'm not sure. I'm on a bit of a pilgrimage, and my first stop is the Temple of Hyaral; after that, I'll go where He directs me.

I did want to ask, though - the way you responded makes me think you're no stranger to the Golden Wanderer, either. Have you been to Port Corvar before?"

[Seanfall]

Medrash stowed his pan flute, pretending not to notice the looks some of the sailors were giving him. He gulped, and sighed.

"At least they didn't try to break them." A memory of a fist fight with some of the other young members of tribe filtered through his mind.

[Phelan Boots]

"Yokin it is then. Though the characters and the settings are different my tale is not so different from your own. A while after you left the temple, I began to study in the hopes of becoming one of Elluveh's Chosen. The temple may have just been a roof and bed to you, but my plan was always to join the clergy.

Well I got that chance, and they shipped me off to the training grounds on Elluveh's Salvation. I was doing well, both academically and on the proving grounds. Then I started displaying some powers of my own, controlling lightning and thunder. There was an accident, and allegations cast. False allegations, mind you. It seems it is not my fate serve Elluveh. In fact, a different deity has already laid claim to me. To give a long answer to a simple question, I am heading to Corvar to visit the temple of Akir."

Through his story, Throdeshi has been avoiding eye contact with Yokin, staring back towards the shore with a look of sadness but also a touch of defiance. It seems there might be more to the story, but Throdeshi isn't inclined to tell it at the moment.

"My kind don't have it the easy in this world. Certainly some places are better than others, but my people are naturally frightening. Sure, few places openly discriminate against the Dragonborn, but there will always be suspicions. At least I was fortunate enough to be born in to a metallic bloodline. That pale chromatic fellow who looks like he's never left the mountains, the one doing awful things to that flute over there? He is going to be in for a shock, excuse the lightning pun, when he gets to civilization. Hells, he may as well eat babies for what the highborn will think of him.

[Lokio]

The rocking of the ship was doing little to make Eva feel less queasy, and she rolled out of her hammock, pulling her cloak tightly about her as she headed for the deck. She'd seen Adegan, knew she recognized him from somewhere, and it chilled her blood. Would it be too strange to begin trying to disguise herself there on the ship? Could she even keep it up long enough? Maybe it would be best to play as though nothing strange was occurring.

She made her way out onto the deck, sharp eyes catching as the Dragonborn began to play his flute. It had started off almost mournful, in her view, but picking up, it became so much more. It wasn't well played, but it had a certain spirit to it. She smiled, leaning against the rail as she picked up the harmonies quietly and put a little something into it with her voice. She didn't know the song, but she did know music. Together, they'd make something worth listening to.

Spoiler: Panflute player, have an assist another and roll a d6 to add to that panflute roll from Bardic Inspiration

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Assist Another, Panflute roll - also, add yourself a bardic inspiration d6 to that because RP scene - (1d20+5)[24]

[Gryndel]

"Yes, it's sad how the ignorant in this world share such prejudices and superstitions, even when they don't share much else."

Yokin shrugs, "It sounds like you have a specific goal in mind, and it seems a worthy one. While I'm not religious myself, I can respect those who are."

Glancing over at the white dragonborn, he chuckles softly and says, "Sounds like that one isn't a trained bard. Or perhaps the sea is simply too unsettling. Let's go introduce ourselves."

Walking over with the easy stride of one who's very accustomed to walking on the unsteady deck of a ship, he smiles at the white dragonborn and says, "Greetings, I'm Yokin. Interesting tune you played there."

[Daevah]

When the voice of the charming half-elf joined his, Medrash kept on with his tune. It didn't really improve any of the quality, especially with the waves making it harder and harder to keep a firm stand, but the few sailors that had given him the stink-eye now were successfully distracted by the lovely singing.

So successfully actually, that a gruff voice from the helm shouts, "Quit oggling, ye damn lazy woodworms, ye can work and use your ears at the same damn time!" Which has everyone scrambling to get back to what they were doing, effectively leaving Medrash and Eva in a bubble of privacy until the song ends and another pair joins them on deck.

[Seanfall]

Once the tune had ended Medrash nodded thankfully to the Half-Elf who had least made it halfway bearable. Before he could give voice to his thanks however another half-blood had walked up and introduced himself. A Dragonborn was with him, Bronze scales and other markings of one of the metallic dragons. Poor fellow, going through life that shiny, can't blend in during a hunt.

Medrash cast an eye back to the Half-Elf, wondering if they shared blood considering how bronze he was as well. He looked like a sailor though the hat was a little out of place. He was silent, not long, but long enough to notice. Before he stretched his arm out towards them. (If you try to shake he'll do a forearm shake instead.)

"Medrash Tuskbreaker, of the Falcon's Cry."

[LuckyStrike]

Nicolai enjoyed the relief of having someone to talk to. He'd been fearing the experience would be a lonely one, but he was pleasantly surprised and latched onto the conversation.

"I've always travelled with a purpose, in my old navy days. But I've met many travelers such as yourself and have passed on many a gold coin in my days too. This one won't be different, I promise you." He answered as he tapped his breast-pocket where he'd stashed it.

"And, to my ears at least, it doesn't sound so strange. I'd consider it stranger if you had the itch but decided to stay put." He smiles.

"Can't say I've ever particularly been devoted to one single religion myself. I try to do my bit to keep on all of their good sides, like many sailors I suppose." He added a wink to the smile.

"But yeah, with my current situation i'd probably do well to pay homage to the Golden wanderer when we get to Corvar. Haven't been there in over twenty years. The Scuttle tavern will be my first stop though, if that dump still stands. Many a good memory between those walls. Hazy memories, of the best kind." He chuckles a bit to himself, as he's reminded of his younger days.

[Nettlekid]

Valerian had been counting the seconds passing, impossibly impatient to get to the mainland and begin his work. He was content with patience on a stakeout, when the waiting had a purpose to it, but this was just wasting time. He was envious of the impossibly wealthy who could commission transport via Teleportation Circle. Nothing better than that.

He occupies himself with his thoughts, but keeps an ear open on the smatterings of conversation happening around him. Although he has no expectations, it's surprising how often something useful comes out from a random collection of adults from all walks of life running into one another. And that curiosity is rewarded - the gruff Human mentions in passing his aim to visit the Scuttle as soon as the ship makes port. Curious, Valerian thinks to himself. The Scuttle isn't the most reputable of places, or at least he hopes for his own sake it isn't. But this man certainly doesn't seem like an unsavory type, what with the religious respect. Valerian remembers his "interview" with the merchant, and learning that there's more than one harrier on his mark's trail. If this Human hasn't been back on the mainland in as long as he claims then it's unlikely he's a fellow pursuer, but perhaps he's meeting someone who is? A contact who sent word days ago when the mark fled to Marten's Paw? Valerian thinks back to the armor which drew his attention, and wonders if this Human will need it for whatever he has planned at the Scuttle. If handled indelicately, this could throw his plans into complete disarray. He would either have to act quick and get the information he needs before fighting starts, or see if an altercation flushes out anyone strong enough to fight back and with an interest in stopping a good man from doing his job.

Valerian shakes his head. Too many unknowns for right now. He's making too many assumptions. But he has some time - he'll figure out what this man's business is and what the Scuttle means to him. He'll know how to act once he knows that.

[3bodyproblem]

"I'm sure the tavern must be a popular place for the Lords and Ladies in the city!" Adegan laughed good-naturedly at Gates' description of the Scuttle and gave a conspiratorial wink in return.

"However, friend - I think it would be a shame if we were to spend the entire trip below the deck." He looked around and noted that most of the other passengers had already come to the same conclusion. "Much as I love this damp, cramped, cabin, what say you to heading up?" Adegan nodded his head towards the splintered wooden door separating the room from the rest of the hold.

[Gryndel]

Extending his hand to shake, Yokin is only slightly surprised when the dragonborn grabs his forearm. Not completely unfamiliar with the gesture, he grips the man's forearm in return and smiles, "Pleasure to meet ye, Medrash. I'm not familiar with the Falcon's Cry. Is that another ship? Could ye describe it?

[Phelan Boots]

Throdeshi Damatir walked up with Yokin and watches their exchange. "No, not a ship. I believe he would appear more comfortable on the sea if the Falcon's Cry were a ship. A tavern perhaps? I am Throdeshi Damatir, disciple of Akir. May the Tempest bring you strength, Medrash."

Throdeshi surprised himself when he used a blessing of Akir. It felt right, natural even, but you don't just shake off ten years of living in a temple of Elluveh. Throdeshi looked at his chromatic brethren intently, trying to get a feel for Medrash. Within a moment, Throdeshi realized he was trying to look for the corruption of Assissa or Mithraven within the large white Dragonborn. Suddenly annoyed with himself, Threodeshi thought to himself, It would seem it's much easier to drop Elluveh's blessing than her suspicions. Even after all trouble I've had with those same suspicions.

[Seanfall]

"Ship? Tavern?" Medrash, let out a sigh a hand running down his face.

"Pffft...Southerners. The Falcon's Cry is no ship. It is no tavern. THEY are my tribe, my family."

Medrash caught Throdeshi eyeing him intently.

"...I am more flummoxed by that name you mentioned. Who or what is Akir?"

[Gryndel]

"Pardon my ignorance, Madresh, I meant no offense."

Yokin sighs softly as Throdeshi is asked about Akir. He knew better than to ask a cleric about heir deity, but Madresh seemed totally uninformed about the existence of this one. He leaned against the railing, expecting a long and boring sermon about the virtues of Akir. But he was willing to listen, hoping he could glean some useful information about his new companion without asking directly.

Meanwhile he looked around the deck to spot any other passengers and watch them with interest, trying to catch any snippets of conversation.

Spoiler: Perception

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if needed (1d20+4)[5]

[Daevah]

As Yokin glances around, he takes note of all the sounds on the ship, people stomping heavily over wood, sailors calling out to each other and the powerful crash of the ship's nose against the waves it is trying to part. The sea especially is loud and boisterous and while the sky is only covered in a smattering of white, fluffy clouds, the wind is still heavy and riling up the water. Not necessarily good, as the wind shifts a lot and only partly helps the ship move along faster to the shore. If it turns fully, they might lose time in the long run.

After a minute, Yokin realizes that the contemplation of the water and waves has made him fully space out from what is going on around him. He snaps back to the here and now with a blink.

Spoiler

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Sorry, that's the 1 for you! Utter spacing out.

[LuckyStrike]

"I'm sure the tavern must be a popular place for the Lords and Ladies in the city!" Adegan laughed good-naturedly at Gates' description of the Scuttle and gave a conspiratorial wink in return.

"However, friend - I think it would be a shame if we were to spend the entire trip below the deck." He looked around and noted that most of the other passengers had already come to the same conclusion. "Much as I love this damp, cramped, cabin, what say you to heading up?" Adegan nodded his head towards the splintered wooden door separating the room from the rest of the hold.

"Sure thing." Nicolai said as he followed Adegan out. As they went up on deck Nicolai was once again struck with the sweet familiarity of it all. He hadn't realised just how much he'd missed this.

He introduced himself to everyone with a handshake and a curt nod. "Nicolai." He said a few times as he shook hands and took in the names of those that cared to give it.

Nicolai leaned up against the railing, and stuffed his pipe with some strong tobacco and lit it. As he took a few deep draughts, he turned around peered out over the water, enjoying every moment so far.

[Gryndel]

Yokin enjoys the sensations of sailing the sea. He wants this to last longer than it should, yet is anxious to get what he thinks may be his last sea voyage over. He smiles, even as his eyes well up with tears, then he lets put a gleeful laugh to keep from crying.

Spoiler: OOC

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It's worth pointing out that there are no critical failures or successes on skill rolls. That was a 5, not a 1, though still low enough to space out I suppose.

Turning his attention back his companions, he says, "So I have another question for both of you, again born out of ignorance, curiosity, and a personal desire to understand what may be part of my ancestry. Please understand that I mean no offense by it. Are dragonborn as closely related to true dragons as you seem?

[Seanfall]

"Don't know. Never seen a true Dragon. Would like to fight one, one day though." Medresh reached up and ran a nail over the scales of his chin, thinking. "I've been getting odd looks though. Were I among my tribe many of which would be taken as a challenge. The Captain however warned me against starting a brawl on his ship. So I've decided to ignore it for now."

[3bodyproblem]

Adegan unsteadily made his way up the stairs, and wrinkled his nose at the briny air as he and Gates emerged onto the deck. Though he'd grown up wandering the Thumb with his tribe, he was quickly discovering that traveling by ship was an entirely different affair - and it wasn't one that he was inclined to like.

That, and the last time I was on a ship, it wasn't exactly my choice.

Involuntarily, the memories from fifteen years ago came flooding back - how his father, Lord Haral, had come to the Thumb seeking his ten year-old child; how he had been dragged, kicking and screaming, away from the only life he knew; how he had spent the entire journey refusing to talk to anyone else on the ship.

Guess our relationship didn't improve much after that, did it?

He shook his head, and was brought back to the present. It was no use worrying or thinking about what had happened - only what would happen - and Adegan knew that he would find answers soon, in Port Corvar. He smiled to himself and glanced around, and saw that Gates had already perched himself by the edge of the boat, enjoying himself thoroughly. He waved casually and gave a friendly smile to his new friend, while simultaneously trying to hide the fact that the contents of his breakfast were currently trying to make their way to freedom.

Wish I could feel at home on a ship as he does - only thing I feel now is nauseous.

Spoiler

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As of now, Adegan isn't with the main group (he's still feeling a bit nauseous).

...meta reason is that I have to run somewhere now and can't finish this post: will have another post down tonight!