Calendar/985/October/23

[Thu Feb 16 19:17:49 2006] : GM: The quay where Immure's ship is moored is alive this morning with sights and sounds. By the time you get there, you can easily tell the men have been working since before sunup.
[Thu Feb 16 19:18:41 2006] : GM: It is clear, and the sun is brilliant in its rising over the horizon of the Aenean Ocean.
[Thu Feb 16 19:19:21 2006] : YULE: Grin and look at the crew working, "I am glad I don't do that for a living!"
[Thu Feb 16 19:20:21 2006] : ** James sulks, looking at the ship in a sullen manner **
[Thu Feb 16 19:20:28 2006] : Gereth: "How long until we sail do you think?" I growl in Yule's direction.
[Thu Feb 16 19:20:46 2006] : GM: Yule leaves word (and a few coins) with the dock master, in case Eaidig or heron show.
[Thu Feb 16 19:22:54 2006] : YULE: "hummm..if good weather we should be there in a week or so"
[Thu Feb 16 19:23:59 2006] : James: I hope they catch up with us, somehow... whatever shape we're in.
[Thu Feb 16 19:24:02 2006] : Gereth: "Well and good but how soon until we actually set sail? And where is Immure?"
[Thu Feb 16 19:25:12 2006] : Gereth: I glance over at James, "Agreed, I'll sleep much better tonight if one or the other of them join us."
[Thu Feb 16 19:25:26 2006] : YULE: "Ahhh...sorry, we should be getting on board now to get our quarters and store our equipment"
[Thu Feb 16 19:27:19 2006] : Gereth: "Well, lead on Yule...the sooner we start, the sooner we finish."
[Thu Feb 16 19:27:29 2006] : GM: As you board, the ship is abustle. Men are working the capstan winch, readying to hoist the sail into place, others are working lines, and some have climbed the ratlines to the top of the mast.
[Thu Feb 16 19:28:00 2006] : ** James drags a sled of the odd things he purchased the previous evening behind him **
[Thu Feb 16 19:28:49 2006] : YULE: smile, "James...I hope you found a sword while you were out"
[Thu Feb 16 19:29:07 2006] : GM: As you step on deck, a man whose back had been to you turns calmly around. He is average in most every way, having dark hair and a placid face.
[Thu Feb 16 19:29:23 2006] : ** James smiles back in an odd, quirky, and slightly menacing fashion very unlike his normal demeanor **
[Thu Feb 16 19:29:34 2006] : James: I found what it will take for me to sleep soundly at night.
[Thu Feb 16 19:29:50 2006] : YULE: "you found Heron?"
[Thu Feb 16 19:29:52 2006] : GM: He regards you without expression for a moment, looks back to the men climbing the ratlines briefly, then back to you.
[Thu Feb 16 19:30:02 2006] : Gereth: I bark a hearty laugh.
[Thu Feb 16 19:30:09 2006] : ** James laughs an honest laugh **
[Thu Feb 16 19:30:12 2006] : James: Close enough.
[Thu Feb 16 19:30:28 2006] : Derrizi: Which of you is our new man? {calm, quiet cvoice, but firm}
[Thu Feb 16 19:30:42 2006] : YULE: "my name is Yule...it is I"
[Thu Feb 16 19:31:29 2006] : Derrizi: {looks at you without expression for a moment} I am Derrizi, master's mate of this vessel. You have shipped before?
[Thu Feb 16 19:31:59 2006] : YULE: "yes...in my youth....I can run the basics"
[Thu Feb 16 19:32:43 2006] : Derrizi: {again, a calm pause, and a look into your eyes} Then I can use you up that spar; can you monkey up and help with the rigging?
[Thu Feb 16 19:33:20 2006] : YULE: "Tell me where to store my equipment...and I will get to work...sir"
[Thu Feb 16 19:33:51 2006] : James: We'll carry it for you so you can get right to work.
[Thu Feb 16 19:35:14 2006] : YULE: "aye...aye....rigging sir"....(go be a good monkey)
[Thu Feb 16 19:35:33 2006] : Gereth: I look the ship over, taking a good look at the sailors, Derrizi, and the ship in general while the others chat.
[Thu Feb 16 19:36:23 2006] : Derrizi: The rest of ye may stowe your belongings below {points to an open hatch} and then please to stay in the fore, out of the working men's ways. {turns and quietly surveys the work more}
[Thu Feb 16 19:37:10 2006] : Gereth: I move to the hatch and look down into it.
[Thu Feb 16 19:37:40 2006] : GM: This ship is an older <a href='http://www.ormonds.net/rpg/westaven/cog.php'>cog</a>, although in fairly good repair. You guess that the aftcastle was a new construction--within the last few years, due to the condition of its wood. On the upper deck of that castle stands Immure and another man--a huge specimin of a Mawk'hidu.
[Thu Feb 16 19:38:34 2006] : GM: The deck is worn, and the hold where you were directed smells. There are some supplies down there--barrels and crates and whatnot, but otherwise it is very empty.
[Thu Feb 16 19:39:30 2006] : GM: There are about 8 or so men--discluding Yule--working the winches and riggings {they are now placing the sail and beginning to use the cables to hoist the great yardarm upon which that square piece of cloth is hung}
[Thu Feb 16 19:40:20 2006] : GM: Except, that is, for Derrizi, who stands, arms folded, absolutely still--like a statue facing the heavy work of others.
[Thu Feb 16 19:40:48 2006] : Gereth: (Is there a ladder down into the hold, or stairs?)
[Thu Feb 16 19:41:18 2006] : GM: There is something calming about him. Once in awhile a man will run up to him, ask a question or report a readiness, and he will look at the man, then in the direction of whatever he is speaking, then say one or two words--at most--and the man will spring off and to work.
[Thu Feb 16 19:41:38 2006] : GM: There is a ladder leading down to the hold, and another leading up to the aftcastle.
[Thu Feb 16 19:42:59 2006] : Gereth: I head down into the hold to see where I might stow my gear.
[Thu Feb 16 19:45:18 2006] : GM: Fine. Down below there is a lot of room in the hold; you have your choice of spots
[Thu Feb 16 19:45:22 2006] : ** James follows Gereth. **
[Thu Feb 16 19:45:36 2006] : James: Think we'd be out of the way enough if we stayed down here?
[Thu Feb 16 19:46:24 2006] : James: It's foul.. that's sure.. but it could be safe.
[Thu Feb 16 19:46:48 2006] : Gereth: I breathe in a lung, "I think I'd rather breathe the fresh air."
[Thu Feb 16 19:46:55 2006] : Gereth: *lung full
[Thu Feb 16 19:47:46 2006] : Gereth: "I'm thinking that sitting with our backs against the stern above would be just as safe and much more pleasant."
[Thu Feb 16 19:47:47 2006] : ** James shrugs and packs his stuff into an easily accessible but dark and unasuming corner with some things that look very ill used **
[Thu Feb 16 19:48:37 2006] : GM: Back up above, just as you rise from the hatch, you note a person coming from the gangplank onto the deck.
[Thu Feb 16 19:49:35 2006] : ** Gereth makes sure that Yule's swords are covered but easily accessible before going above, keeping his pack in tow. **</font>
[Thu Feb 16 19:49:48 2006] : Nak'hat: 5 feet 7 in. 160 lbs. early 20's. Tawny skinned, with a good complexion. Small, dark-brown eyes, strong, white teeth and a soft features might make for a fairly forgettable face were it not for his Makwhidu heritage. Wavy, thick, short brown hair tops his head. His frame is stout, but always seems to be dareing the edge of gauntness. A faintly delicate, small nose, a slight puff to the lips, and a well defined jaw round out this man's features. He is quite hairy with a neatly trimmed beard. Overall he seems no stranger to hard work. His clothing often consists of a plain, earthy colored but airy britches and shirt.
[Thu Feb 16 19:50:49 2006] : GM: Derrizi turns and faces this Mawk'hidu man, silently, looking him up and down, saying nothing.
[Thu Feb 16 19:51:49 2006] : Gereth: I watch them both as I set my pack down in a corner under the sterncastle and then sit down on the deck leaning against my pack.
[Thu Feb 16 19:51:52 2006] : ** James steps to the fore and tilts his head over the side, that worried look never leaving his face **
[Thu Feb 16 19:51:52 2006] : Nak'hat: Nak'hat crosses over towards the man Derrizi with an outstretched hand and a wide smile "Good day, good day!"
[Thu Feb 16 19:52:42 2006] : ** Gereth rests his staff against his shoulder and pulls his hood a little lower. **</font>
[Thu Feb 16 19:52:49 2006] : Derrizi: {ignores the hand, but stares at you placidly, never betraying any emotion whatsoever} Are ye another that's booked passage on this vessel?
[Thu Feb 16 19:54:02 2006] : Gereth: I scan the rigging for Yule's whereabouts.
[Thu Feb 16 19:54:26 2006] : ** James mumbles quietly about the subtle irony of paying passengers on a such a ship **
[Thu Feb 16 19:54:29 2006] : Nak'hat: Nak'hat gives a deep bow and a wide smile, small, dark eyes staring "Forgive this humble performer good man, but I have indeed booked passage on this fine ship with such an agreeable and fine crew. 
[Thu Feb 16 19:54:58 2006] : GM: {Yule is up the shrouds, near the crow's nest, helping the other sailors hang the yard arm, which hold the furled sail.
[Thu Feb 16 19:56:06 2006] : Derrizi: {stares again without expression} Ye may put your belongings below, then join the others of your intention on deck, out of the men's way.
[Thu Feb 16 19:56:49 2006] : Gereth: Having spotted Yule, I lean further back into the corner and compose myself for a little nap (actually keep both eyes squarely on Derrizi and the Mawk'hidu).
[Thu Feb 16 19:57:32 2006] : Nak'hat: I give a another deep bow "Of course my most excellent man. I am, as always, at your most humble service. rises and moves toward the hold to store his own things.
[Thu Feb 16 19:58:22 2006] : ** Nak'hat moves down the ladder then reemerges after a few moments to join the others by the fore. **
[Thu Feb 16 19:59:40 2006] : Gereth: I wait for a moment, stand and look down the hold's hatch to make sure our gear is undisturbed.
[Thu Feb 16 20:00:01 2006] : GM: The Mawk'hidu man comes and nears James.
[Thu Feb 16 20:00:25 2006] : ** James watches him attentively **
[Thu Feb 16 20:00:43 2006] : Gereth: (( I was still in the aft but will move to the fore after checking down the hold. ))
[Thu Feb 16 20:00:47 2006] : Nak'hat: Nak'hat gives those that are standing near the fore a wide, disarming smile, "Good day! Good day!" extends a hand out to James
[Thu Feb 16 20:01:23 2006] : ** James shakes it not coldly but with little warmth **
[Thu Feb 16 20:01:44 2006] : James: As good as it can be... I suppose, you'll have to excuse my ill humor.
[Thu Feb 16 20:03:00 2006] : Gereth: I walk passed James and Nak'hat to find a new corner under the forecastle.
[Thu Feb 16 20:03:29 2006] : ** James follows Gereth with my eyes **
[Thu Feb 16 20:04:17 2006] : Nak'hat: "What has put such a fine fellow in a mood deserving of a fierce winter storm?"
[Thu Feb 16 20:04:19 2006] : James: I find a better cure for ill humor is to be rid of the cause.
[Thu Feb 16 20:04:56 2006] : James: In the simplest words.. being out voted.
[Thu Feb 16 20:04:59 2006] : Gereth: After sitting and leaning back against my pack again, I find James' eyes, arch an eyebrow and then look the ship over again.
[Thu Feb 16 20:05:21 2006] : GM: Suddenly, from the top deck of the sterncastle, a great shout splits the ship..... The gigantic Mawk'hidu bellows, "Ye dogs will MOVE! Move, sons of bachelors! Now's no time of chat like wenches---move or my rattan will bleed yer backs! Move or be flogged!"
[Thu Feb 16 20:05:45 2006] : ** James shrugs in such a way that I send two different messages to each Nak'hat and Gereth **
[Thu Feb 16 20:06:10 2006] : Nak'hat: grins at james, "Then you'll find my afore just as well for such humors, I can promise you as such my fair fellow," dark eyes flick impreceptibly towards the large fellow then back to james with the same smile, "What brings you hence good man?"
[Thu Feb 16 20:06:52 2006] : James: The same thing that drives all men, the need to live.. I find it not so easy to make my living in a single place.
[Thu Feb 16 20:07:29 2006] : Gereth: I glance up to the rigging to find Yule again and then watch the Mawk'hidu on the aftcastle.
[Thu Feb 16 20:08:31 2006] : Nak'hat: Gives a barking laugh, being at what some might consider uncomfrotably close, "Then we are kindred fellows! One, I feel deserving of a name. What be your name good fellow, so that I may speak it comfortably and in good humor?"
[Thu Feb 16 20:08:51 2006] : Nak'hat: (uncomfortably)
[Thu Feb 16 20:09:09 2006] : ** James returns a cool stare **
[Thu Feb 16 20:09:18 2006] : Gereth: I watch Nak'hat closely and tighten my grip on my staff.
[Thu Feb 16 20:09:23 2006] : James: My name is James
[Thu Feb 16 20:09:37 2006] : GM: {Yule is helping another man with the knots on the sail, which has just recently been hooked into place on the mast.}
[Thu Feb 16 20:10:49 2006] : Nak'hat: Gives a short bow to James, the grin never leaving his face, and dark eyes staring over him "I am Nak'hat, and..at the risk of gaining the wrath of the gods for immodesty, the finest performer you shall see hence."
[Thu Feb 16 20:10:54 2006] : GM: {the giant Mawk'hidu on the sterncastle stands with his arms crossed--much as does Derrizi, except the former is seething, the muscles in his exposed, naked, tremendous chest shivering like a warhorse's before a battle}
[Thu Feb 16 20:13:35 2006] : ** James declines the short bow **
[Thu Feb 16 20:13:44 2006] : GM: A man runs up to Derrizi and tells him something, then waits. The Master's Mate looks at him, then back to the men {Yule included} working on the sail, then up to the sterncastle.
[Thu Feb 16 20:14:35 2006] : Gereth: I watch the new fellow and Derrizi.
[Thu Feb 16 20:14:56 2006] : ** Nak'hat blushes faintly under his tawny skin, but continues to smile **
[Thu Feb 16 20:15:20 2006] : ** James looks a bit awkward at the man who would so quickly offer me a weapon **
[Thu Feb 16 20:15:40 2006] : Derrizi: {shouts in a surprisingly loud voice for he who seemed such a quiet, calm, man} Master Immure, The Manacle is shaped for seaward, sir!
[Thu Feb 16 20:16:19 2006] : Immure: {from the sterncastle deck} Well, on with it then, and off we go, Mate!
[Thu Feb 16 20:16:57 2006] : Immure: {Shouting in general} All hands afore, all hands afore!
[Thu Feb 16 20:18:12 2006] : GM: Most of the men come to the fore of the ship, even the giant Mawk'hidu climbs down the ladder from the sterncastle.
[Thu Feb 16 20:18:30 2006] : Gereth: I watch the men coming to the fore closely.
[Thu Feb 16 20:19:09 2006] : GM: They gather in a rough semicircle around Derrizi, who steps to the point. In short, easy, calm movements, he reaches into a sack that had been lying there and pulls out an object.
[Thu Feb 16 20:19:26 2006] : ** James presses himself inconspicuously against something and out of the way **
[Thu Feb 16 20:19:45 2006] : GM: In a moment he lifts it to show the rest of the crew---it is a crudely carved wooden statue....
[Thu Feb 16 20:20:20 2006] : GM: A statue of what appears to be a fire of sorts, with eyes and some sorts of arms, one holding a weapon of sorts
[Thu Feb 16 20:20:43 2006] : Nak'hat: "A most apt question, though what 'can't' I perform would be much easier on us both," but I shall tell you the former regardless, "I am a teller of tales, a singer of song both fine and baudy, a worker of magicks so incredible as to deny your very senses, and it has been said..no binds can hold me..much to the delights of those that look on."
[Thu Feb 16 20:20:57 2006] : ** Nak'hat smiles broadly at James **
[Thu Feb 16 20:20:58 2006] : GM: When he holds it up, the 10 or so crewmen cheer with one arm upraised--a happy cheer, chuckling, too.
[Thu Feb 16 20:21:15 2006] : GM: {Yule has come back to the deck for this, too}
[Thu Feb 16 20:22:01 2006] : Derrizi: Well, lads, let's on with it, get along. {sets the statue on the rim of the boat} Step up, take your turn.
[Thu Feb 16 20:22:21 2006] : Gereth: "Talismen, what next?" I grumble to myself.
[Thu Feb 16 20:22:26 2006] : ** James motions to the events occuring before them and signals for some quiet as he focusses his attention on the crew **
[Thu Feb 16 20:22:54 2006] : ** Nak'hat sniffs the air gently, then turns gently towards the voice of the Derrizi **
[Thu Feb 16 20:23:42 2006] : GM: One by one, as Derrizi stands by, the men walk up to the statue and--haking up as much phlegm as they can muster---spit on the statue. After each, the men chuckle and cheer.
[Thu Feb 16 20:23:59 2006] : ** James whispers **
[Thu Feb 16 20:24:08 2006] : James: It's a wonder that thing still looks like wood...
[Thu Feb 16 20:24:33 2006] : Gereth: At this, I cock an eyebrow and chuckle to myself quietly, "Best use of a god I've ever seen!" I mutter.
[Thu Feb 16 20:24:49 2006] : GM: Finally, all the men have gone except the giant Mawk'hidu and Yule.
[Thu Feb 16 20:25:31 2006] : Derrizi: {to Yule} C'mon, lad, step lively. It's a tradition here on The Manacle, and ye are of our crew.
[Thu Feb 16 20:26:24 2006] : James: How do you mean?
[Thu Feb 16 20:26:44 2006] : YULE: Yule grins and does as the rest of the sailors!
[Thu Feb 16 20:27:19 2006] : GM: Reactions from a cheer to nods of approval arise from the crew
[Thu Feb 16 20:27:41 2006] : James: I'd like a chance to spit on it too.. as long as I'm not the one who has to pick it up to put it up...
[Thu Feb 16 20:27:41 2006] : Gereth: I glance up at James, "Better to spit on Gharv than to join him!" and I turn back to watch the spectacle.
[Thu Feb 16 20:28:03 2006] : Derrizi: Now, our good boatswain shall finish the deed, and we cut loose from this dock and off.
[Thu Feb 16 20:28:34 2006] : Nak'hat: Still leaning uncomfortably close, still whispering with a grin, "Why...the most interesting rituals of the crew of course."
[Thu Feb 16 20:29:11 2006] : James: Interesting is wonderful.. but like I said, I just don't want to have to touch it.
[Thu Feb 16 20:29:22 2006] : GM: The Mawk'hidu comes up, and with an angry, ugly look on his face--his great neck and back muscles straining--spits a gigantic was on the statue.
[Thu Feb 16 20:29:50 2006] : GM: The crew cheers--and then, they begin stoming their feet...slowly at first, then faster and faster...
[Thu Feb 16 20:29:56 2006] : ** James shudders at the sight of that monster loogie from that monster... loogie **
[Thu Feb 16 20:30:04 2006] : ** Nak'hat gives James a sturdy pat on the back with and wide grin showing white strong teeth **
[Thu Feb 16 20:30:41 2006] : GM: All the while, the giant boatswain is undoing his britches...He then urinates on the statue, shooting it off the side of the boat and into the water.
[Thu Feb 16 20:31:09 2006] : ** James turns around and looks out to sea trying to forget that **
[Thu Feb 16 20:31:41 2006] : GM: The men cheer louder than ever. A sort of random cry goes up within the cacophony: "To the hells with Gharv!" and "Off we sail!"
[Thu Feb 16 20:31:52 2006] : James: This little party suddenly got awkward.
[Thu Feb 16 20:32:20 2006] : James: No wonder this whole ship smells like piss.
[Thu Feb 16 20:32:52 2006] : ** James mutters his words so that none of the crew hear **
[Thu Feb 16 20:33:01 2006] : Derrizi: {shouting up to Immure, who is still above, on the sterncastle} The Manacle ready to unfurl sail, Master Immure, at your command!
[Thu Feb 16 20:33:22 2006] : Gereth: I smile to myself, ease myself back further into the corner under the forecastle and watch the crew with a bit more ease.
[Thu Feb 16 20:33:34 2006] : Nak'hat: gives a wide grin and a speaking in a low voice, "Akward moments often brew the finests of tales."
[Thu Feb 16 20:33:35 2006] : Derrizi: {and after Immure nods at him} Unfurl sail, and cut the mooring cables, lads! Water ho!
[Thu Feb 16 20:36:40 2006] : ** Gereth watches the crew as we set off. **</font>
[Thu Feb 16 20:38:01 2006] : GM: Out of the harbour of Eneini you sail, Derrizi working the tiller handle, which controls the steerboard.
[Thu Feb 16 20:38:14 2006] : ** James ' frown deepens **
[Thu Feb 16 20:39:20 2006] : GM: Now, each of you roll vs. motion sickness (roll vs. HT; Yule at +5, the rest of you normal)
[Thu Feb 16 20:39:41 2006] : Gereth: HT (10) [3d6.msk(10,0)] -> [6,1,4] = 11 vs (10) or less Failure! by 1 
[Thu Feb 16 20:39:56 2006] : Nak'hat: HT [11] -> 11 [3d6.msk(11,0)] -> [6,2,5] = 13 vs (11) or less Failure! by 2 
[Thu Feb 16 20:39:58 2006] : James: [3d6] -> [4,4,3] = (11)
[Thu Feb 16 20:40:13 2006] : James: (( I so fail ))
[Thu Feb 16 20:40:36 2006] : GM: Okay, Yule is fine, and works happily, having quickly regained his sea legs.
[Thu Feb 16 20:40:49 2006] : GM: The rest of you soon experience seasickness.
[Thu Feb 16 20:41:14 2006] : GM: You are vomiting and at -5 on all DX, IQ & skill rolls.
[Thu Feb 16 20:41:20 2006] : ** Nak'hat a faint greenish cast sinks it ways into tawny skin **
[Thu Feb 16 20:41:31 2006] : GM: and feel generally lousy, too!
[Thu Feb 16 20:42:01 2006] : ** Nak'hat hangs his head over the side **
[Thu Feb 16 20:42:07 2006] : Gereth: "Cursed boat {retch} we should have {urp} walked!"
[Thu Feb 16 20:42:09 2006] : James: Good thing I didn't eat yesterday.. dry heaves are so much better than real vomit...
[Thu Feb 16 20:42:23 2006] : James: I know! I TOLD you that!
[Thu Feb 16 20:42:57 2006] : GM: actually, within a few hours, everyone but Nak'hat has recovered.
[Thu Feb 16 20:43:54 2006] : GM: Gereth & James still feel weak and "wrong" inside...but otherwise can function. Nak'hat, however, is taking this awfully hard...he is as green as a frog.
[Thu Feb 16 20:44:06 2006] : James: I still say d'e boat was a bad idea.
[Thu Feb 16 20:44:55 2006] : Gereth: I watch the sea and try not to look at nor hear Nak'hat, "If that keeps up, then I will be for walking back. You've my word on that James!"
[Thu Feb 16 20:45:06 2006] : GM: By afternoon, the sky turns partly cloudy, but the cold is worse than ever--on the ocean, the wind speeds you on your way, but it also cuts through your clothes.
[Thu Feb 16 20:45:55 2006] : Gereth: I pull my light cloak closer over my heavy clothes and mumble, "Should have bought a heavier cloak."
[Thu Feb 16 20:46:16 2006] : James: Shame, I 'ad just been about t' ask yea t' sin' a son'.
[Thu Feb 16 20:46:53 2006] : GM: Yule gets a little time to rest and eat, as a man named Earcher--a rather morose, middle aged sailor who has a thick accent of the docks, hands out some bread and wine rations.
[Thu Feb 16 20:47:01 2006] : Gereth: I walk back to what little shelter the area under the forecastle gives and huddle there.
[Thu Feb 16 20:47:38 2006] : ** James pulls out my own rations and eats conservatively **
[Thu Feb 16 20:47:52 2006] : GM: As the men stand and talk, they are generally in good cheer, although most keep clear of you passengers.
[Thu Feb 16 20:47:57 2006] : ** Nak'hat lays heavily against one of the sides of the fore, his complexion bearing an ill tiding **
[Thu Feb 16 20:48:56 2006] : GM: After awhile, the giant Mawk'hidu--the boatswain--comes up and growls about getting back to work. Then he catches sight of Nak'hat looking so ill, huddled over his empty gut.
[Thu Feb 16 20:48:57 2006] : Gereth: I eye all the food and turn away from the sight, the memory of earlier too fresh still.
[Thu Feb 16 20:49:11 2006] : YULE: yule walks over to his friends ans smiles, "you boy have been praying to the ocean gods....I saw you"
[Thu Feb 16 20:49:26 2006] : James: Not 'ungry geret'?
[Thu Feb 16 20:50:21 2006] : Gereth: I eye James for a moment and then look at Yule, "Your swords are just out of sight at the foot of the ladder in the hold."
[Thu Feb 16 20:50:48 2006] : YULE: "thank you my friend"...
[Thu Feb 16 20:51:05 2006] : ** James waves my rations at Nak'at **
[Thu Feb 16 20:51:12 2006] : James: What did yea eat, man! 
[Thu Feb 16 20:51:28 2006] : James: I'd 'ave d'ought yea'd be empty lon' ago, but d'e 'eaves keep comin'!
[Thu Feb 16 20:52:03 2006] : YULE: (Yule returns to work)
[Thu Feb 16 20:52:12 2006] : Gore: {sneering, showing teeth, looking down at Nak'hat} What's this? A slave on deck?
[Thu Feb 16 20:52:43 2006] : Gereth: I sit back and try to think of something other than food, Gore's comment catches my full attention though.
[Thu Feb 16 20:52:43 2006] : ** Nak'hat makes the effort to look up at the voice and gives a greenish belch **
[Thu Feb 16 20:53:00 2006] : Nak'hat: Said in a queasy voice "My apologies my good man..."
[Thu Feb 16 20:53:46 2006] : ** James watches with interest **
[Thu Feb 16 20:54:21 2006] : Gore: {spits at Nak'hat}
[Thu Feb 16 20:54:47 2006] : Nak'hat: "I'm afraid the sea is a harsh mistress upon my lack of sea legs.." said humbly, and makes the effort to avoid the spit..but fails
[Thu Feb 16 20:55:53 2006] : Gore: Damnable scum. {Now to Gereth} Does this belong to you?
[Thu Feb 16 20:56:34 2006] : Gereth: I look at Gore, "Him? Never seen him before today. He said something to Derrizi about being a paying passenger."
[Thu Feb 16 20:56:41 2006] : Nak'hat: gives the man his best smile, and ignores the abuse for now
[Thu Feb 16 20:57:33 2006] : Gore: Pasenger?! A slave without owner? Is that it, Greenie? Hmph!
[Thu Feb 16 20:58:00 2006] : ** Nak'hat surreptitiously wipes the spittle from his brow **
[Thu Feb 16 20:59:00 2006] : Nak'hat: gives the man a queasy smile, "Truly good sir. Merely a humble performer on his way to the marvelous oracle."
[Thu Feb 16 20:59:10 2006] : Gore: {Now turns to Yule, who was standing, watching, stopped byt he interaction on his way to work} And what do ye stare at, dog? Off to work! {pulls out his rattan, and straightens the cords...a clear threat of a flogging}
[Thu Feb 16 20:59:23 2006] : ** James gives Gereth an extremely cold stare, hoping he remembers James' concerns **
[Thu Feb 16 21:00:28 2006] : YULE: (yule smiles with a smirky grin then turns and goes to work without haste in his steps)
[Thu Feb 16 21:02:07 2006] : GM: {much of the crew has stopped work and watches this; some with a smirk, others blankfaced}
[Thu Feb 16 21:02:16 2006] : YULE: Turn and look at Gore
[Thu Feb 16 21:02:31 2006] : Gereth: I ignore James' stare and watch Yule and Gore.
[Thu Feb 16 21:02:57 2006] : Gore: {raises rattan to strike---not just a threat!} When I order a move ye WILL move!
[Thu Feb 16 21:03:21 2006] : YULE: "Stop"
[Thu Feb 16 21:03:24 2006] : ** Nak'hat gives another, but quieter greenish, wet belch **
[Thu Feb 16 21:03:45 2006] : Gore: SWUNG WEAPON attack [3d6.msk(13,0)] -> [4,3,2] = 9 vs (13) or less Success! by 4    
[Thu Feb 16 21:04:07 2006] : James: (( who is he hitting?))
[Thu Feb 16 21:04:15 2006] : Gereth: (( Yule ))
[Thu Feb 16 21:04:21 2006] : James: (( THought so))
[Thu Feb 16 21:04:41 2006] : Nak'hat: (( Nak'hat wipes his brow in relief. XD =D))
[Thu Feb 16 21:05:31 2006] : YULE: Yule gins,"now should I get to work or not"
[Thu Feb 16 21:05:55 2006] : YULE: "sir"
[Thu Feb 16 21:07:03 2006] : Gore: {eyes flashing, looking down at Yule} I'll leak the blood from your veins, one slash at a time, if ye don't move when I say, d'y'hear?
[Thu Feb 16 21:07:27 2006] : GM: {Yule is not wearing his armor...he is at work}
[Thu Feb 16 21:08:38 2006] : YULE: "aye...aye...sir...we can play for blood later if you wish...now I should work..."  
[Thu Feb 16 21:08:45 2006] : James: (( Shudders at all the horrible horrible things on the boat.. ))
[Thu Feb 16 21:09:54 2006] : Gore: {roars} Get up them lines, dog! Get up, up! {moves on across the deck--even takes a potshot slash at another sailor, who gives a yelp as he's hit him on the arm}
[Thu Feb 16 21:10:03 2006] : Gereth: Seeing Yule returning to work, I relax a bit again.
[Thu Feb 16 21:10:49 2006] : GM: As evening descends--and the temperatures cool even more, a fog develops on the ship.
[Thu Feb 16 21:10:56 2006] : YULE: yule turns to his friends and smile then up the ropes he goes...
[Thu Feb 16 21:11:23 2006] : Nak'hat: said a bit queasily to james, with a similar smile "That bare chested fellow takes a blow better than beast or man."
[Thu Feb 16 21:11:26 2006] : ** James looks at the poor sick man on the floor **
[Thu Feb 16 21:11:34 2006] : GM: You have been making good time, and the winds have been favorable to the sail.
[Thu Feb 16 21:11:55 2006] : James: it's amazing.. shit keeps pouring out his mouth but nothing goes in.. where's it all coming from? I'd hate to see this man eat when he's healthy.
[Thu Feb 16 21:12:36 2006] : GM: Yule, being the "pup" of the ship, is assigned to the crow's nest tonight---which, interestingly, the crew calls "Ronnie's nest," after the blackeron birds that often perch there.
[Thu Feb 16 21:13:24 2006] : Nak'hat: does his best to remain in good humor, "My sealegs have run off with a docktart long ago, and haven't returned it would seem."
[Thu Feb 16 21:13:35 2006] : GM: The rest of you are given one more ration of food--this time some day'old meat warmed in the firebox on the deck, plus more bread and wine.
[Thu Feb 16 21:14:20 2006] : Gereth: Feeling a bit more at ease with my churning innards, I eat a bit of the food offered.
[Thu Feb 16 21:15:14 2006] : GM: Then those not on duty go below to huddle as best they can in the dimply firelit hold and get some sleep. The crew is still in good spirits, and they even sing a few little songs. they want to drink, but Master immure--who is not below--has forbit more than a mugfull with their supper.
[Thu Feb 16 21:15:20 2006] : ** James accepts the food smiling and then quietly disposes of it when none are looking **
[Thu Feb 16 21:15:54 2006] : ** Nak'hat shows a genuinely glum expression when the others begin their songs **
[Thu Feb 16 21:16:29 2006] : GM: The crew also avoids you--except for one, who later in the evening comes over.
[Thu Feb 16 21:17:14 2006] : Gereth: Seeing that others have gone below, I do likewise and make use of Yule's gear to lean against. I pull a blanket from my pack and wrap up as best I can.
[Thu Feb 16 21:17:24 2006] : ** Nak'hat lays heavily against the fore wall, halfway dozing **
[Thu Feb 16 21:17:27 2006] : GM: He is a small man, and you recognize him as one who was often sent up on the ropes...for he is able to climb the shrowds like no one else. he is also the man whom Gore struk after Yule; his arm is bandaged slioppily.
[Thu Feb 16 21:18:15 2006] : Zink: {to all three of you} Hello!
[Thu Feb 16 21:18:51 2006] : GM: you are all below, as is the crew
[Thu Feb 16 21:18:58 2006] : GM: except Yule, who is aloft
[Thu Feb 16 21:19:08 2006] : James: Good evening
[Thu Feb 16 21:19:22 2006] : Nak'hat: Does his best to smile, and a too loud greenish, wet belch escapes his lips "Oh. Deepest apologies most fair fellow."
[Thu Feb 16 21:19:45 2006] : Gereth: I just look up at the fellow.
[Thu Feb 16 21:19:50 2006] : Zink: You are travelling?
[Thu Feb 16 21:20:27 2006] : Gereth: "Yes, we're heading for Glynlynn."
[Thu Feb 16 21:20:34 2006] : James: Well.. we're not sitting still..
[Thu Feb 16 21:20:40 2006] : James: Well, we are...
[Thu Feb 16 21:21:14 2006] : Nak'hat: batters down another wet betch around his words, "A fine trip...spared the rolling."
[Thu Feb 16 21:21:14 2006] : Zink: I know Glynlynn, I know it. I been there.
[Thu Feb 16 21:22:26 2006] : Zink: I'm Inzink, but I am called Zink.
[Thu Feb 16 21:22:40 2006] : Zink: But you can call me Inzink or Zink.
[Thu Feb 16 21:23:05 2006] : James: Hello Zink
[Thu Feb 16 21:23:29 2006] : Nak'hat: fixes the man with a queasy smile, "Nak'hat, none better in performance you shall see hence...yet less than hale at the moment."
[Thu Feb 16 21:23:52 2006] : Gereth: "What do you know of Glynlynn then, Zink?" I say harshly.
[Thu Feb 16 21:24:36 2006] : Zink: {stares at gereth for a minute, blankly; behind him, the men are laughing and singing a song across the cargo hold} I like songs.
[Thu Feb 16 21:25:25 2006] : Zink: I know lots of songs.
[Thu Feb 16 21:25:59 2006] : ** James offers Zink some of my rations which I had no intention of eating... **
[Thu Feb 16 21:25:59 2006] : Zink: I like ale, too.
[Thu Feb 16 21:26:11 2006] : Zink: Do you have any ale?
[Thu Feb 16 21:26:49 2006] : James: We have a friend who would probably bleed ale if you cut him.
[Thu Feb 16 21:26:53 2006] : James: He couldnt make it.
[Thu Feb 16 21:27:22 2006] : Zink: {wide eyed} Reeeeally? Is he magic?
[Thu Feb 16 21:27:23 2006] : ** Nak'hat gives a quesy chuckle then pats his stomach gently and groans **
[Thu Feb 16 21:27:34 2006] : Gereth: I look at Zink and then stare at his arm for a bit, somewhat lost in thought.
[Thu Feb 16 21:27:37 2006] : James: No, just alcoholic and womanizing
[Thu Feb 16 21:27:54 2006] : James: So, Zink, where are we going?
[Thu Feb 16 21:29:24 2006] : Zink: {blinks a couple times in thought...you're realizing Zink is "slow"....} Going?
[Thu Feb 16 21:29:44 2006] : Zink: I'm not going anywhere. I'm staying right here with my friends.
[Thu Feb 16 21:30:06 2006] : Gereth: I sit up and beckon to Zink, "Come here Zink, show me that arm of yours."
[Thu Feb 16 21:31:15 2006] : James: Gereth, going to give the simpleton a shock?
[Thu Feb 16 21:32:03 2006] : Gereth: I smile wanly at James, "Just mind yourself, that arm's going to be a bit of insurance," I grumble just barely loud enough for James to hear.
[Thu Feb 16 21:32:25 2006] : Zink: {looks at arm, then at Gereth, worried, like a dog who may make a run for it but is unsure. At the words "give a shock," he stumbles back, confused.} Whuh?
[Thu Feb 16 21:33:06 2006] : Gereth: I heave a sigh, "Just come sit here a moment and let me have a look at your arm. I won't hurt you."
[Thu Feb 16 21:33:18 2006] : Gereth: I shoot a withering glance toward James.
[Thu Feb 16 21:33:36 2006] : ** James shrugs and watches **
[Thu Feb 16 21:33:59 2006] : Zink: Naw....{slithers off toward the others, with many backward glances}
[Thu Feb 16 21:33:59 2006] : Nak'hat: gives james a queasy smile, "You're ill mood seems catching good James."
[Thu Feb 16 21:35:20 2006] : Nak'hat: ((question? Did James call Gereth by name yet? =?))
[Thu Feb 16 21:35:35 2006] : Gereth: I shake my head, "I had hoped to help his arm heal up," I growl at James. "What better way to gain another set of eyes?" (I don't believe so)
[Thu Feb 16 21:36:28 2006] : James: Him? He's always unpleasant, this isn't a mood for him.
[Thu Feb 16 21:37:18 2006] : Gereth: I grumble and mutter to myself for a moment and lean back again, pulling the blanket over my shoulders.
[Thu Feb 16 21:37:22 2006] : James: Maybe you still can.
[Thu Feb 16 21:37:50 2006] : ** James pulls a very fine wine out of his pack and yells to Zink **
[Thu Feb 16 21:38:03 2006] : James: Hey, friend, I have something good... like ale.. to drink, come here
[Thu Feb 16 21:38:20 2006] : Gereth: I lean up on a elbow to watch James.
[Thu Feb 16 21:39:00 2006] : James: Zink! Come drink with me!
[Thu Feb 16 21:39:11 2006] : GM: Zink is already back with the other shipmates. A couple who had their backs to you turn and look in james's direction after his yell.
[Thu Feb 16 21:39:37 2006] : GM: Then they whisper to the others---obviously discussing what James had said.
[Thu Feb 16 21:39:58 2006] : Gereth: I shake my head, "You'll make more friends than you want doing a fool thing like that," I mutter.
[Thu Feb 16 21:40:11 2006] : GM: Then one of the men makes a rude gesture to James, grumbles,a nd turns back around. A moment later they all laugh at something one had said. Zink laughs too.
[Thu Feb 16 21:40:32 2006] : ** James gets the rude gesturing fellows attention and throws him the wine **
[Thu Feb 16 21:42:04 2006] : GM: They ignore it, leaving it where it lands.
[Thu Feb 16 21:42:21 2006] : James: Their loss.
[Thu Feb 16 21:42:49 2006] : GM: Can I ff to tomorrow?
[Thu Feb 16 21:42:53 2006] : Gereth: I lie down again and try to sleep.
[Thu Feb 16 21:43:55 2006] : Nak'hat: gives a quesy smile "A pity you did not tie a string around it's neck. The bait is lost."
[Thu Feb 16 21:44:14 2006] : James: I could just walk over and pick it up.
[Thu Feb 16 21:44:29 2006] : James: If you like wine, you should do it.... it's fine stuff.. supposedly.
[Thu Feb 16 21:45:57 2006] : Gereth: "Just get the bottle or let it lie but stop with the talking...it'll be hard enough to sleep as it is!" I growl. "And I thought the rocks Eaidig found were hard!" I mumble.
[Thu Feb 16 21:46:13 2006] : ** James goes to sleep **

THE FOLLOWING IS A CONVERSATION BETWEEN YULE AND BINBEAR, A SAILOR WHOM YULE MET WHILE WORKING THE RIGGINGS. THE CONVERSATION TAKES PLACE SOON AFTER THE INCIDENT WITH GORE-THE SHIP'S BOATSWAIN-SPITTING ON NAK'HAT AND STRIKING YULE. THE CONVERSATION WAS LATER RELAYED TO THE ENTIRE PARTY BY YULE.

YULE: who is Gore?
GM: the giant Mawk'hidu who screamed at the men who were talking before
GM: he's the boatswain--in charge of discipline & training
YULE: nice...
YULE: I do have both my daggers on me ....
GM: ok---but they're visible, ok?
YULE: yes...others have them too right?
GM: most of the men wear some sort of knife---usually for working
GM: You are up in the "ronnie's nest," keeping weather watch, until early-or late, depending upon how you look at it-Binbear climbs up to relieve you.
YULE: (To Binbaer) I made a friend on ship today!
Binbaer: Did you now? I saw that.
YULE: I think he likes you too!
Binbaer: I think you were right about that wench...and she was "hitting" on you, eh! hahaho
YULE: lol....she is a little bitch after all!
Binbaer: lol
Binbaer: Well, she'll sweeten up as time goes on, Yule. Gore is a devilfish, that's certain, but he's just trying to put you on the rope. He does it to all the fresh meat.
YULE: that is a past memory that I have not felt in a while....now you know why I took up a different way of life... Has he ever really hurt any of the crew?
Binbaer: Hahaha...well, only a few who didn't deserve it.
YULE: hummmm
Binbaer: He once broke a man's arm who got caught in a winch....Gore was so angry that the man had been that foolish that he just grabbed a holt, then pulled...it was a sight! The man's arm was loose and so broken inside that it looked like an eel.
YULE: He really knows how to captain a ship, huh...
Binbaer: No, he knows how to boatswain a ship! hahaha
YULE: yes...you are right...
Binbaer: You'll be alright there, though---you're smart enough. Though I wouldn't show him you're not afraid, if I were you.
YULE: why not?
Binbaer: There's two things Gore don't like, and that's not doing what Gore says, and that's also facing Gore down. You did both, Yule! Congratulations! hahaha
YULE: Well, you have to be known for something right?
Binbaer: hahaha--just don't be known for broken arm number two!
YULE: I will try not too! ha ha He really doesn't want to play for blood anyway....(smile)
Binbaer: Oh, don't be so sure! That man used to be a slave, and he was war-trained. How Immure got him, I dunno, but I can tell you this: he's been in many a battle, so he's a good fight---I've seen that myself when we round up new Mawkies. We also had a tiffle up near Lognia after we were pressed into Lord Malcer's service, and Gore did some killing there too. He's a devilfish alright. He's mean and don't know pain.
YULE: why does he treat other free slaves so poorly? His blood is the same as any man....mean or nice..
Binbaer: That's a mystery, friend, but you have not seen human brutality until you've seen him with a hold full of his own kind. Now THEM he's killed in number. The skipper had to tell him no more a few years ago, because he was wasting profit---he liked to kill the strongest males, especially.
YULE: bad blood runs in his veins huh?
Binbaer: I don't know, Yule, but he's like a mad bull when Mawkies'r around. I think he's forgotten he a Mawkie himself, is what I thinks.
YULE: hummm...I don't get it?
Binbaer: Gore has forgotten he's a slave race ...he's Mawk'hidun
Binbaer: Your night watch is over--go down and get some sleep until morning. I've got your place, lad.
YULE: thanks.