Session Start: Sat Aug 11 21:00:54 2007 Session Ident: #lunar-iog2 * Logging for #lunar-iog2 started * TheStoryteller changes topic to '-= Chapter 47: Hurricane Warning | Location: Port Town Carribia | Pool: 0 MXP =- http://storen.rpgcafe.net/IoG/ =-' == SESSION START == After a generally peaceful journey upon the "Gulf Queen" steamboat, soon the island settlement of Carribia comes into view off the port side! The vessel, laden with cargo and passengers, swings around to begin docking procedures. In the harbor, many vessels are going to and fro, as in the northeast an ominous storm cloud looms. The harbor has 3 particularly interesting and eye catching ships docked, simply due to their size and expensive look. All are very similar in construction, likely a convoy of some sort under the flag of the Colonial Trade Federation. * Saki looks - for her - exceedingly happy to see land at long last. One eye keeps flicking towards the storm on the horizon, but otherwise she's even managing to wear a smile as she watches the boat slowly chug its way in. The trio are Epiphany-class hovercrafts, largely employed by the government in a variety of missions. However, these have a much deeper draft and full sails rigged to use the wind for propulsion and a large cargo bay. If there was ever a ship to be perfectly suited for blue water exploration and amphibious landings, this would be current technology's best offering for the task. * Vytor continues to dutifully read the Silver Star Chronicle, now liberally tabbed with various bookmarks. * Trune takes in a deep breath and scans the town, putting his belonging back in his bag now that the group has arrrived. * Niri smiles as they prepare to disembark. "It's so...sunny! And so busy, too." * Angie has been at the railing since land came back into view. She's been in a bit of a slump for the past day or two, but she beams at the sight of the ships, and some of the enthusiasm flares back up in her eyes. Emili has remained quiet after your little encounter, not wanting to get too deep into things yet. Wearing her cloaked traveling getup, she looks at the storm and frowns a little bit. A little too sunny. I'm gonna get sunburned so bad. * Mikel half leans over the railing of the ferry, letting out a whistle as he gets an eyeful of the hovercrafts. "Man, those are some beautiful ships!" * Mikel is probably precariously close to ending up in the drink but doesn't seem too worried about that. * Angie pushes off from the railing, walking over to meet Niri with a bit of a kick in her step. "I haven't been here in a long time, and it was during the off-season. Looks like we might be in for some bad weather, though." Maybe. But that bad weather is...something unusual. We may have to go check it out later. * Saki rotates an arm idly in the socket, staring off at the town. "We'd best make the most of it, then," she adds quietly. [Captain] All hands, get ready to dock. Look alive if you want your shore leave! * Vytor hears the Captain's shout, and puts the book back into his bag The owner of the steamship guides the rudder and begins to pull into a free dock reserved for the Takkar ferry route. Sailors start throwing out lines to moor the boat as the engine cools down and the paddlewheel reverses. The ride is a little bumpy, but nothing you aren't used to by now. Soon enough the boat comes to a complete stop and anchor is dropped with a thunk into the sandy bottom, and a gangplank is prepared for debarking. * Angie shades her eyes to peer at the dark clouds in the distance. "Dunno that I'd wanna take a boat over there when it's looking like that, though." * Mikel waves a hand, starting to tilt a bit too much as he does so. "I kind of want to see a good storm! Though it might put a crimp on getting out of here, thou- whoa!" A wobble or two before he manages to make it back onto the deck. "Where to first, then?" True. But...well, it all depends on what's causing it. [Emili] That's what I want to find out! It's got to be on that island. Well, didn't you have an ice cream social to attend, Mikel? ;) * Trune cracks a devious grin. * Niri grins mischievously. * Vytor hefts his gear, and debarks You know what I think? Around this time of year, hurricanes and other big weather systems are common in these parts. This looks different, though. I think we should split up and accomplish various important tasks. Some people should find us a place to stay and make contact with the Alkirks. Some people should look into finding out more information about that storm. You mean one person goes to the island while everyone else trails Mikel? I'm totally game with that! And the rest of us...should locate an ice cream parlor for Mikel. :D * Mikel coughs as he gathers up his own gear. "Well, yeah, but business before, uh, fu- hey!" * Saki continues to watch the storm in silence, her frown deepening. I can tackle the finding a place to stay. A place this busy should have someplace suitable. Emili grins from beneath her cloak. "The Surf n Turf Inn has room for all of you guys I bet. This storm's been chasing tourists away recently." Seriously though, splitting up might work. Surf and Turf? OK, I'll grab some rooms there. How many? Were we supposed to meet the Alkirks somewhere in particular? Business before pleasure, Niri. You might want to go with whoever goes to meet the Alkirks. Star power and all that. As long as I get to spy....I mean, provide moral support....when Mikel DOES go get ice cream. * Mikel gives Niri a flat stare before deadpanning. "Saki, what's your rate to prevent spying?" * Saki takes a while to answer, remaining fixated on the storm for a moment before blinking back to the conversation. A moment's thought - or recalling what was actually being talked about. "... no dice on this one. Leader's orders." ...damn. Emili supresses a laugh. * Angie exhales in resignation. "If anyone's going to go check out the weather, it should probably be me," she says, shrugging her shoulders. "Anyone want to come? Risk of death!" * Niri giggles and rubs her hands together gleefully. ...aw hell with it. I'm interested Angie. Curious if it's magical or not. You know...a magical storm of death or something. Me too! I want to see what's up with the storm. There's always plenty of those, of course. I'm sure we'll be fine. * Saki makes a quiet noise of affirmation. "... I'm going too." I might tag along there, if you don't mind, Ang'. If it's willforce flying around. It almost has to be. Unless it's, like, science. One or the other, though! It might be an imbalance in the element lines. I've got my gear with me, we can give it a look. Actually getting over could be a trick, though. I'll stay here to keep an eye on preparations. Just be careful out there. You guys are totally not good at the splitting up thing. ...Um. I'm not sure anyone shoudl go OUT to the storm until we've found out more about it, don't you think? This is starting to sound like pretty much everyone goes storm hunting. * Saki considers, then shakes her head. "... Mm. Even then, we should all go as a group. I think we'll need it." * Angie shrugs. "You got any ideas?" she asks, holding up her hands. "Everything I know how to do requires that I be at least sort of nearby." Well, yes, I agree, Mikel. I'll go grab rooms and meet with the Alkirks while you're off chasing hurricanes. Be back by suppertime, OK? I just think we should split up to gather /information./ We can all go out to check out the storm later, once we know more. [Emili] We should all go together! But let's relax a little first, mmhmm? get to know the Alkirks and the history of the weather disruptions. * Vytor sets off to find the Surf and Turf, waving to the party as he goes. So... info and lodging and arrangements, then storm hunting? Sounds like a plan. * Saki grunts quietly, back to glowering at the storm. "... nn. Not 'can'. 'Should'." She sighs out a breath, and shoulders a couple of the larger of the group's provision packs, lumbering after Vytor. Along with your date, of course. Somehow we'll squeeze it in. ;) There goes trying to sneak off. * Angie flinches like she was stung by a bee. "Don't you hog them!" she says to Vytor, delivering her command with the end of a pointed finger. "I've been wanting to meet them for years now." I never forget. Ever. So you don't forget Venus and Pluto fighting over you? (shouts back at Angie) Then don't be late for supper! No, that's something YOU don't forget. * Angie sighs. She watches Vytor disappear, then looks over each member of the remaining group in turn. "Well!" she declares with a clap of her hands. "We'll need a ship or something, too. We should try to sort that while we're doing this." Emili eventually takes the lead from Vytor, knowing the place very well. You brush past a lot of cok workers and visitors and merchants, going through the busy port town. Many streets are more like boardwalks on the sand, lined with stores and eateries. I suppose we're even then! Who are you gonna choose? << dock workers >> * Vytor nods to EMili, and allows her to take the lead. She obviously knows where she's going. I won't answer that. For my own safety. The time will come. * Saki lopes along after Vytor, a small mountain of bags. In fact Emili stops now an again to oogle some fish on sale... maybe the rumor Dragons love seafood is true. Or she just could be really hungry. * Vytor relieves Saki of some of the bags, since he no longer needs to navigate. * Niri shrugs and follows Emili. It looks like splitting up to find out info will have to wait. * Trune looks in the window where Emili is looking, "Ooh, Halibut. Er. Uh, onward." * Mikel follows along as well, chuckling. "Food will be soon enough." * Angie folds her hands behind her back and travels from stall to stall, picking out a few things and talking up the sellers. It's not that far to the place Emili suggested, actually, as only a few blocks and Vytor can see a big sign over a two story building that advertises "Where land and Sea Meet!" and below a red sign that proclaims "vacancies". The decor is awash with a palm tree motif and lots of vibrant colors. You know, I just think they might like palm trees here! Looks like the place. How many rooms do we want? 2? 4? 8? Depends how much they charge. If they're really in a slump maybe it won't be that much. >> The storm on the horizon is a constant reminder of the duties of the Legendary Hero, but despite the promise of danger to come, Angie is able to unwind a bit in the downtown area. She splits off from the group for a short time, and when she shows up at the inn Emili recommended, she has an armful of food and gewgaws. The wind begins to pick up, rustling the tropical inn's palm fronds hypnotically. You can also make out a first floor open air bar/cafe that seems to be very popular, almost independant of the main establishment. There's a large list of drinks and exotic dishes from all over the known world served here. And the waitresses look pretty cute, too, with flowers in their hair and dakr, sun-tanned skin. At the counter to the hotel is a smiling man in a flower print shirt. ^_^ * Saki looks entirely nonplussed. * Vytor settles down his bags, and approaches the counter, "Hello." * Saki also looks utterly out of place. * Trune stares just a bit too long at one of the waitresses, but after awhile manages to turn away. He coughs. [Manager] Hey how you be doin' mon? Welcome to Carribia! * Mikel gives Trune a helpful elbow as he stares before following Vytor towards the desk. Thank you. We'd like some rooms, pending on your prices. * Niri elbows Trune. Careful! Venus will get jealous. Or Pluto. * Niri grins * Angie dumps her armload on a table and brushes her coat off. "How long has the weather been this way?" she asks the innkeeper. [Manager] For just 5 silver per person per night, you can enjoy the fun and da sun. Special sale dis week! For the moment, one night for the lot of us. 8 total people. [Manager] Oy, da storms been ruining me business for the last week, mon... but da sailors been drinkin' plenty too. Heh. * Trune gives Niri a look, "What! I just like her dress!" * Vytor digs into his pocket and pays the man accordingly. Hole. Digging deeper. Etc. * Trune sighs and shakes his head, "No kidding." Vytor pays the innkeeper 40 silver. And in return he gets several keys to the upstairs rooms. * Angie steps up to the counter, leaning over to grin at the innkeeper. "Hope they haven't drunk you dry just yet." * Vytor passes out keys to the group. [Manager] If dis keep up, maybe! Another hurricane is comin down da way. It's never been dis bad, so early in da year. * Trune takes one of the keys from Vytor, "Thanks. You got a couple more than I expected." Suuuure. Her dress and the shape under it. Might as well enjoy creature comforts while we can. * Trune gives Niri a glare of death, "Quiet, littlebit." * Saki nods at a window. "... they all from the same direction?2 * Ryllan takes a key, "Thanks, Vyt'. I can pay you back later, if you like." «ooc: +" » That's fine. * Mikel accepts a key, hrming. "Need to scrounge up some cash, but yeah, I'll pay you back." He looks over at Trune, snickering. "Told you." The innkeeper points out a window in the northeast direction. "It be a cursed island, mon. That" s/ooc er "That's what da sailors tell me." * Niri sticks her tongue out at Trune! * Angie stows the key in her coat pocket, pulling out her pocketbook while she's digging around. "I'll take a beer. Something local." She casts a glance over her shoulder, out the window to the looming clouds. "You think we can make it over there before it gets bad, supposing we're all crazy and so forth?" * Vytor goes to deposit his things into his chosen room. As he thinks of money matters, Mikel spies a poster on the wall. Huh, cursed? * Niri turns to the innkeeper. "Cursed how?" I'd assume because of the storm, right? -- Alkirk expeditions wants YOU! Strong, brave sailors needed for adventure on the high seas and exotic locales! be the first across the eastern ocean! Great pay and benefits. Apply now at Pier 32! -- * Mikel ends up distracted by the poster of course, hrrrming. "...well, that's interesting. I wonder... also makes finding them pretty easy, too. Should we go once we get this all squared away?" [Manager] Ever since it was discovered, da storms keep forming over da place. Any reliable reports about what's over there? [Manager] Said some woman was dere controlling the weather, and a ruined town on it, sounds like. * Vytor comes back downstairs, having deposited his gear Hm...it's almost as if someone wants to keep everyone else out. A woman? * Etir (~Nehn@dynamic-acs-24-239-125-230.zoominternet.net) has joined #lunar-iog2 * Etir is now known as Tanan ....Three guesses who that is, and the first two don't count. Well, it might not be! Anyone see what she looks like? Oh come on, it's totally her. Only she could do something so annoying as to set up a hurricane to keep others out. * Angie snaps her pocketbook shut and stows it again. She turns about to lean back against the counter and frown at the storm. "No reason to jump to conclusions. It's a big world -- there's a lot of crazy shit out there. Still, that kind of weather control is pretty impressive. We don't know how many of these servants there are. Might be someone else. " Emili taps her fingers on the counter, while the man shrugs and adds, "If someone did, dey ain't living no more to tell da tale, mon..." * Saki stands off to one side, frowning at the storm still. "... you're more right than you think." Still, Angie, I dunno. We heard rumors that the Prophetess and Johnathan were seen in that area, near the island. I'd say it's a pretty good bet who it is. I just hope we're not too late to help. * Mikel lets out a sigh. "Well, figures." * Trune overhears Saki, "You know something?" * Angie spits out a sigh and nudges her glasses back on her nose. "I wonder if dead people are immune to shooting." Least the Alkriks will be easy to find. << Alkirks >> * Saki shakes her head, sounding uncertain even compared to usual. "... mm. Don't know for sure, but it's. ... odd." * Vytor listens quietly [Emili] It's obvious who it is. Why else would I be here? Angie, even if they are, it's a stress reliever...? * Angie shoots Emili a look. "You weren't 'here' the last time." * Saki shakes her head again, burying a hand in her hair and scratching her scalp. "... we'll know when we get there. We've an appointment to keep." It isn't an appointment for a thrashing, right? Emili hrmphs in a rather childlike way. "I was running behind schedule, okay...?" Depends on who's getting thrashed. * Saki blinks at Mikel. "... I hope not. I meant the Alkirks." Oh, I thought you were talking about the Prophetess. Oh yeah, whoops. We'll have to meet the Alkirks before we know whether they deserve thrashing or not! But I rather doubt it. Considering we're gonna be trying to get a lift across the ocean... Right. Might be a bad plan! So, who's ready to go hunt down the Alkirks with me? I'm in Sure. Off in the distant corner of the bar you hear some yelling... "C'mon sweetcheeks, not even a little sugar for me?" "No way! I'd rather kiss a fish!" *slap* * Saki looks weary. ..? * Mikel ...blinks. * Niri blinks. Don't tell me. * Niri looks in the direction of the outburst. * Saki shakes her head. "... no such thing as coincidence," she simply replies, and heads for the voices. * Mikel follows suit, starting to make his way over. [Man] Damn, you're even cuter when you're angry... No hunting required. * Ryllan heads toward the voices. [Woman] ...grrr... why are you always like this Kyle! This is kinda eerie. This happens way too often for us. * Vytor figures the group is aware of something he's missed, and let's them take the lead. The question is if it is a blessing or a curse. * Angie takes her beer from the bartender, pops off the cap by dragging it against the end of the counter, and takes a drink. She follows Ryllan toward the happy couple. Turning a corner you see a blonde haired beastwoman glowering over the hulking figure of a tan-skinned, dark haired swordsman. There's a huge mug of alchol, and by the looks of it they've both been drinking. [Kyle] C'mon.. i came all this way to see if you died in that storm! And this is what I get? [Jessica] You're just mad daddy won't let you on our ship no matter how hard you beg! [Kyle] Geez, calm down, Jess... I'm just trying to protect you. With my beefy self, those storm will run away scared! * Trune stares at Kyle, "(w) Whoa, conceited much?" [Jessica] Oh reaallly... like I believe that.. you'll get seasick in the first 10 minutes. * Mikel mulls over the pros and cons of interrupting. [Kyle] ...oogh, maybe I'm getting sick right now.. *hiccup* * Vytor leans against a support pillar, and waits for an explanation * Niri exchanges a glance with Trune and Mikel. [Jessica] urgh, you stupid lug... hmph. I hope you're happy hugging that beer bottle. :| * Mikel glances at Niri and Trune and shrugs. So. If the people we're supposed to meet are drunk....what do we do? Jessica ALkirk tries to walk away from the table but herself wobbles a bit... I've got a quick wake me up trick for that... but I don't think they'll appreciate it. Maybe they're more prone to suggestion. * Angie takes a sip from her own bottle, then offers it to Niri. "When in Rome." * Mikel sets mode: +o Tanan [Jessica] Last time.. I try to.. drink him under the table... * Mikel finally just clears his throat. Menwhile Kyle is passed out, drooling and mumbling about Jessica naked on the beach. * Mikel then promptly smacks his forehead. This followed by another slap. And a kick for good measure. * Saki nods in appreciation. (m) Dear goddess above... [Kyle] oogh... Jessica... I love it when you're rough *crumples to the floor* Suddenly, I am not so sure a relationship with the opposite sex is wise. It depends on how stupid your mouth gets, I think. Then I'd be in trouble. Jessica throws some silver at the bartender. "I'm leaving!" * Vytor raises an eyebrow at all this, wondering where this is going. Just maybe. So, uh. * Niri passes on the bottle Angie offers. :P * Niri shrugs and walks up to Jessica, tapping her on the shoulder. The money is enough to cover a room for Kyle, too, and she starts storming out. or she would, if she didn't crash right into Niri. * Angie tilts her head, gives Niri an amused eye, and takes another sip. * Niri staggers! ...well, that's one way to get her attention. Ow. That's gotta be painful. ....Guys? Remind me never to get drunk. Both adventurers are knocked on their rumps for a second. Jessica rubs her head. "Owww... I'm sorry..." Pssh. Not all drunks are like that. There's a difference between a pleasant buzz and punch drunk. 'Sokay. Um. Jessica Alkirk, right? The daughter of the famous pirate quickly regains her composure and tries not to look too sloshed. She runs a hand through her hair to get it out of her face, and her pointed ears twich a moment. "Oh, you know me!" By reputation, yeah! We need to speak to your father... [Jessica] That's right, Mel de Alkirk. The most famous seafarer in the world! And head of the Eastern expedition. * Vytor puts two and two together, and finally catches up with the group (mentally). Jessica blinks. "Umm.. wait, am I drunk or are you Nirika Salyan?" Both! * Trune coughs. Um...yeah? What Trune said, yes to both. * Mikel just nods in solemn agreement with Niri and Trune. * Saki leans back against a pillar to the rear of the group, keeping an idle eye on everyone. Jessica lights up and takes Niri's hand in hers to shake it vigorously. "I'll be. This is great! I've always wanted to meet you in person." [Jessica] Please excuse... tall dark and unconscious back there. Reputation preceeds you, Niri. Jessica thumbs Kyle's way, who's now being helped to a room by the bouncers. * Niri looks a little startled, but grins! I...would think I'd be used to be sorta famous, but I'm not! Anyway, glad to meet you, sloshed as you are. Think you can take us to your dad? We need to talk about getting passage across the ocean. Things to do, worlds to save, stuff like that! Think he'll be up for an adventure? (Like I have to ask.) [Jessica] So it is true that you and the gang are sailing east, too? I think we can work out a great deal, you and I! * Niri nods [Jessica] Let's hurry and meet daddy at the docks. Another storm's coming, and we need to get stuff ready to weather it. jessica straightens her little sailor's outfit, rolling up her sleeves and stomping out of the bar without further delay. * Niri blinks at the others. [Emili] Hmm, so that's Jessica... I think Bree pretended to be her once... She sobers up quick, doesn't she? She's still crazy, though! Quick and efficent. We should try this more often. She's AWESOME. * Vytor chuckles Uh-oh. * Niri stares at Angie, then bursts out laughing. * Trune glances sidelong at Angie, then shrugs. * Niri grins. She is kinda cool, isn't she? * Angie tilts Niri a grin and gestures to the door with the tip of the bottle. "Shall we?" * Saki scratches her hair, then lifts herself from the pillar to turn after Jessica. "On it." * Niri nods and follows after Jessica! * Mikel follows along, whistling a tune. Emili pokes Mikel. with a secret grin "Well don't keep a lady waiting. You can find me at that parlor for our date later... " * Vytor follows along after the group. * Trune overhears Emili and tries hard not to burst out laughing. That said, Emili remains at the inn for now, checking out the rooms. :) * Mikel blinks as the whistling comes to an adrupt stop, his face starting to turn red as he nods. "R-right! Won't be too long, trust me!" He then shoots Trune his own glare of death. * Trune has a sly smile plastered on his face, "What?" * Niri has gone out the door, or else Mikel would be on the receiving end of gigglefits! * Mikel just shakes his head as he heads on out. Meanwhile, jessica leads the group back to the docks, and pier 32 specifically, where the 3 vessels you saw before are docked. There's a buzz of activity as over a hundred men and women are preparing supplies and storm contingencies. It appears that the ships have everything from munitions, food, water to even a stock of deployable Land Cruisers in their bellies. Busy place. Well, it /is/ a major expedition. There are building materials too and temporary tents... one could envision them as establishing and maintaining a frontier outpost all by themselves. * Trune whistles, "They'r going all out." Two of the ships appears to have had extensive repairs done and are weathered, while a third one is brand new, and has never been taken on its maiden voyage yet. * Niri grins, her eyes shining. * Angie darts from place to place, inspecting the supplies and ships as if it was her job. Once or twice she bumps into people doing actual work and apologizes hastily before taking off for something else of interest. Wow, this is definitely exciting. Jessica notices the stares and smiles. "I'll say. This time we know what to expect! We'll land for sure on the new continent." * Saki still looks nonplussed. She's not too discomfited, but there's just too many people around for her. ....This time? There's been previous attempts, right? Jessica points at the flagship, the tallest masted one. "That's the Venture. Our flagship, captained by Master Mel himself." Then she indicates the second one behind it. "And that's mine, the Horizon!" * Angie appears from nowhere with a hand on Mikel's shoulder. "Isn't it? It's almost enough to make me forget all the HORRIBLE DOOM. Ten years ago these ships would have just been a dream. I feel like everything's moving so fast, suddenly!" [Jessica] Last time we caught sight of the expected shoreline of Europe, but we were low on supplies and had to turn back. but then, our fleet was hit by the hurricanes without warning..." [Jessica] unfortunately, our third ship, the Endeavor didn't make it... *frown* Hmmm. But you've taken precautions this time, right? And it certainly looks like you have enough supplies... * Mikel glances at Angie, grinning. "Even with all the trouble, we continue on, eh?" The grin fades a bit as the third ship is mentioned though. "That's the risk with venturing out there... though maybe there's a way to deal with the storms if they are being caused by someone on that island." [Jessica] Oh yes, we managed to get more funding from ramus and built a new ship to replace it, but we're still low on crew! * Saki nods, somewhere near the back. Her voice is quiet. "Of course there's a way if they're being caused by someone. ... we stop them." We're willing to help crew a ship, for what its worth. Surprising no one wants to join in. I figure the allure of discovering new land would outweigh the danger for some people. Low on crew, huh? We can probably help there! [Jessica] Hmm.. you think so? Let's go talk to my dad about that stuff... Jessica leads you up the plank of the 'Venture', shoving past the workers as she makes her way to the captains cabin. Several sailors swoon at the sight of her :D * Vytor follows dutifully. * Mikel ponders if any of the poor sailors have seen her while drunk as they follow. One tries to kiss her, but then gets punched in the face -- and drops a box on his foot. Tough love. * Mikel winces. [Jessica] Urgh, he reminds me of Kyle.. >.< You're popular Miss Jessica, and against your will it seems. * Trune snrks. * Niri covers a laugh. Makes me kind of glad I don't have her appeal! The tough beastgirl approaches the cabin door and pauses to fix her hair and look a lot less tussled for her dad's eyes. Opening the door, you see a positively HUGE man pouring over a sea chart. There's a double bladed axe as big as a person on the wall hanging, as well as heads of slain sea monsters decorating the place. ...oh wow remind me not to piss him off anyitme soon. [Jessica] Daddy, I'm back! * Mikel just blinks before muttering something towards Niri and Trune. "(m) I'm surprised people try hitting on her with him being her father." * Niri grins. "Well. He certainly looks like I expected!" (w) Wonder if he'll smell the alcohol on her breath. * Vytor stands back and waits Jessica goes running into the arms of Mel, as he turns around just in time to squeeze her tight. "Har, where've you been, Jessica?" The beastman has a bushy white beard and ears much more pronounced than hers. * Angie folds her arms, letting the half-empty bottle dangle, and watches Mel closely, an expectant, unselfconscious smile plastered across her face. She's seemed a bit more like her usual self since she set foot in Carribia. Maybe it's the air? [Jessica] Oh, just taking pity on a certain guy... * Mikel decides to follow Vytor's lead and wait. * TheStoryteller Jess, you don't have to go drinkin' so soon. We haven't even gotten underway yet! Just as long as Kyle didn't follow you again. << erk >> [Mel] Jess, you don't have to go drinkin' so soon. We haven't even gotten underway yet! Just as long as Kyle didn't follow you again. [Jessica] Hmph, as if! He'll never have his sea legs! But I did meet someone else over there... Mel quirks a bushy eyebrow and peers at the new arrivals. There's a moment of silence, then he gives a hearty laugh that almost shakes the cabin walls. Um. Hey. * Mikel waves meekly. * Niri grins and waves eagerly. [Mel] HAHAH! If it isn't Hiro's daughter! Hi, Mr. - um Mel! * Trune gulps and steps back slightly. [Mel] Call me Mel, please. It's an honor to have you aboard. Your blood must've led you here, what with the scent of danger and adventure.. har har... Well, that, and a useful tip! * Saki hovers, leaning up by a to-her unidentifiable head with some kind of horns. We're headed across the eastern sea to locate items of a valuable nature and solutions to some troubling mysteries. Also to save the world. [Jessica] She says she might know a way to stop the storms, too. [Mel] I'll be... this must be the Goddess herself giving us a stroke of luck. I'd heard you were exploring, but saving the world, now? Er...well, maybe. We know we need to check them out, at any rate. And yeah! Long story, but we are. * Niri gestures to the rest of the party * Vytor waves politely to Mel. * Saki nods. "... first your storms, then to the east." Pretty much, yeah. This is Vytor, he's the best silversmith around...and Mikel, pretty awesome mage, especially for weather and waves... * Angie looks from Niri to Mel. "It's true," she says, unable to suppress a grin. "We saved it once already." Mel folds his arms and gauges the groups strength from his vantage point. Saki's good at punching stuff and cooking. And looking angry. * Mikel offers a litle bow as Niri mentions him. Also Trune is grumpy, but he loves it when we call him Sunshine. He helped discover the Elementalors. Angie here is a great navigator and explorer, and I suspect she was once a pirate, but she won't tell me for sure. * Angie shakes her head. "If I told you, I'd have to keelhaul you, and I just cleaned the keel." Ryllan is from New Meribia, and he's invaluable in a fight and also has tons of great sense. Oh, and uh...this is Tanan. * Niri gestures at the armor she is wearing, sweat dropping a little, at a loss as to how to explain. * Tanan sighs. "I think things would go much more smoothly if you didn't introduce me. But hello." [Jessica] Uh. Tanan.. is.. aa piece of armor? He gets around. It's a long story. Also, Niri, remind me to throttle you later. [Mel] Hmm....... We're a bit surprised too. He was pretending to be a guy for a while. Mel slowly starts to smile wide. "It sounds to me.. like you'd all make a fine crew of a ship." I can't mop decks. Sorry. [Jessica] You don't mean...? * Saki grins unnervingly from her position at the back. "... if you ever change your mind about that, I'll be happy to kick you back into shape." * Angie spreads her arms, palms up. "If only we had a ship," she says, voice dripping with affected woe. * Niri grins annoyingly at Trune. To Tanan, she says, "But I have to introduce you. It'd be rude not to!" [Mel] Aye, Jess! They have the skills.. and we have a ship that needs a guiding hand! No, really, people look at you strangely if you start projecting a personality onto inanimate objects. [Mel] I can't trust one of the lilly-livered scallywags on board to have such a responsibility. ...Not when you start talking. Kinda proves I'm not crazy, and all. Shared hallucination. Niri? Tanan? I think they're gonna give us a boat. * Mikel blinks once before his eyes widen a bit, giving Angie a quick look before looking at Mel. "A guiding hand, you say?" Awesome! I'm OK with that I think. Thank you Mel. [Mel] How about it then, you courageous bilge rats! You think you can handle our newest ship?" Thanks. * Niri breaks off the argument with Tanan, mentally sticking her tongue out at him. Alright, then. Thank you. I don't think I can say 'hell yes' loud enough. I think even if i didn't, Angie would messily murder me in my sleep. Yes. Sure, Mel! Just tell us what to do. Though I warn you, not all of us are uh...experienced sailors. [Mel] You've a navigator, a cook, a weather mage, a craftsman. Sounds perfect to me. * Angie beams at Trune. ...True! * Mikel laughs. And I can stay out of the way! What...does that make me? Cabin boy. Expendab- I mean. * Tanan makes a coughing noise What Niri said. ....Ugh. * Trune facepalms. Tanan! ;) Could be worse. You could be ballast. I was only kidding! I call not anchor. Suuuure you were. * Niri laughs [Mel] Haha! I'll whip you into shape in no time with a crash course for landlubbers! Too late, Tanan. You're perfect for the job. Hey! My overpowered awesome armor, not yours! I still have vengance to wreck! [Jessica] So you're REALLY giving them the ship? Wow! *turns to Angie* Would you like me to show you aboard then? << ...probably the wrong word! switch wreck/unleash or something >> Yes please. Mel reaches into a sturdy chest and pulls out a bottle of finely aged meribian wine. Well, we just need to borrow it for a while. Once the world is safe from evil you can have it back. * Niri grins at Angie. [Mel] If you're going to save the world, your ship needs a proper name. She's waiting for one right now. Hmmm. What do you think, guys ? Hmm. * Niri thinks Maybe....Starfollower? Or... * Niri grins at Trune. "The Venus?" * Mikel cracks up laughing. Mel offers the large bottle to Niri, while Jessica gasps. "Oh that was such a good year..." * Saki looks bewildered. "... don't look at me." * Trune gives Niri anonther death glare, "You are so asking to be be throttled!" No throttling her before she fulfills the whole saving the world thing. * Niri grins cheerfully. "Bring it on!" * Vytor considers ship names. Hmm. Easter Star? The Adventure? The Sea Dragon? [Mel] Discuss it among your mates and head down to the third pier. She's all yours after that -- but I do have one request. What's that? * Mikel raps a knuckle on Tanan. "Maybe Warden." He looks at Mel. "Oh?" * Trune is silent for a moment, quirking his lip, before suddenly reaching over quickly as if to noogie her, then flicks her nose instead. He coughs, "Discovery, maybe?" I like that name. * Angie rubs her chin, chewing on the question. "Trune's name is boring. Starfollower is OK." What would you suggest, Angie? [Mel] Since she's the sturdiest against storms of the fleet, I want you to investigate the island that's been causing this mess quickly. If something can be done to protect our voyage, I want it done first. Starfollower is a hippy name. Starfollower sounds like we're miserably lost. * Niri looks sulky! Mel, we were already going to investigate the island, actually. We...have reason to believe we know what's going on there. It's complicated. We heard rumors that a couple of people were seen there, and we think we might know who they are. * Mikel chuckles. "Dauntless, with this crew, maybe... and yeah, that was on the agenda." How about "World-Saver?" Savior? Let's call it 'Sea's Madness' and call it a day. It suits us well. I'm also totally joking. Don't hurt me. * Saki looks at Mel with a weary and pained look, sticking off to one side. * Mikel waves his staff at Trune half-menancingly. Mel slams a hand down on his sea chart, right next to the island off the coast of Carribia. "I really don't much care about your reasons -- Just get to it, seadogs, and come back in one piece is all I need to hear." Right, we can do that! Probably. I'm all for staying in one piece. * Angie coughs into her fist and forces her giddiness into the pit of her stomach. "Do you, uh, do you know anything about the island that we might not?" she asks. "From the previous expeditions?" [Mel] Good practice for saving the world, mmm? One island at a time. Harhar! Something like! Also, how soon can we set out? [Jessica] Well, the best info we've got is that some strange sorceress who seemed ghostly was controlling the storms. The lookouts reported a deserted city on it, too. Looked like something different than other devestation Ruins. [Mel] Aye, it was a magical city, no doubt about it. Not like a buried tomb of technology. * Saki huffs out a breath, palm on her forehead. "... either-or. No difference to me." * Trune hms, "Sounds like her." Suppose we have to go have a chat with her then... and yeah, sounds right. [Mel] You know this sea hag? If it's who we think it is... uh, we've tried to kill each other a few times. She...you probably know her as the Prophetess. Though...she's kind of not in a way anymore. It's a long story. Frankly, we'd kinda hoped we'd managed it the last time. * Mikel glances at Angie. "The Engine won't go wonky in bad weather, right?" So far we've killed her once, and she's killed us no times. So we're doing OK. [Mel] Haha... "complicated" indeed, heroes. Too abd I can't dig my axe into her skull for my crew that were sent to the depths because of that wench's foul temper. I....guess you have a point, Angie? * Angie frowns, rubbing her mouth with her palm. "It's not really built for it, but as long as it's not out there for too long it should be OK." * Saki frowns. "... we'll take care of that for you. We've other business with her, as well." * Mikel hrms. "Maybe I can figure out a way to keep the worst off it." [Jessica] We'll accept a day ot two delay while you go check it out. Like daddy said, we don't want to have another big loss on our hands if it can be stopped. We'll give it our best. * Mikel nods, hrming. "How soon can the ship be made ready to sail?" [Mel] It'll be ready first thing tomorrow! She just needs some final loving on the lateen storm rigs, reinforced for sheer winds. Go christen the hull and get a sound sleep is my suggestion! You'll be facing hell and high water before the sun sets! * Niri nods. This is the PERFECT time to go get ice cream. ..? * Mikel eyes Niri. "At some other parlor while I reverse my current finacial fortunes and then go see Miss Sandra, right?" * Saki nods once in acknowledgement, then turns to stalk out of the room in silence. [Jessica] *blinks a few time* Is that your secret weapo, Niri? * Angie downs the last of her beer, lifting the bottle upside-down to send the last drops into her mouth. She holds the post for a second, then lowers the bottle, twirling it by the neck. "I could go for that," she says. * Niri blinks innocently at Mikel. "What would be the fun in THAT?" Jessica, what, ice cream? *she grins* Kinda. Where I am spared having to send the occasional bolt of lightning into nearby bushes. Or something. Nahh. You and Trune are totally double dating it, remember? Perhaps we should get to christening the ship and look it over? Hey, Mikel. Ask her if she likes Rocky Road, then relate it to your current adventures and life. Girls dig a hard luck story. They also -- NO WE ARE NOT -- really dig ice cream. You can't go wrong. Session Time: Sun Aug 12 00:00:00 2007 Sure you are. Here, gimme that ECC. See what happens, Trune? Niri, be good. Just get the ECC fr= Well played, Niri. I AM being good. If we split up then she might explode trying to figure out who to follow though. * Niri grins. "Didn't even have to read your mind, Tanan!" Hah. My ECC. Mine. You got your armor, I got my ECC. Everyone wins! Mostly me, though. * Niri makes a grab for the ECC! * Trune holds it way above Niri's head. Being tall is helpful! * Vytor leaves the shenanigans to the others, and heads to look over the ship. * Niri jumps for it! Mel and Jessica look on an start chuckling to each other. * Mikel reaches over to pull Niri away. "Come along, Princess." * Trune holds it just barely over Niri's head, "Payback is rather pleasant at times! Serves you right, matchmaker person." We have a boat to name. * Niri looks extremely sulky and sticks her tongue out. Hey, I made suggestions. No one liked them. Hmmm... I did! What about Dancer's Dream? It's sappy enough for the ladies but actually sounds like a ship name. And I have the most experience with ships so you should totally all listen to me. *She nods with a self-satisfied smirk, confident that this settles the issue.* Captain Angie? * Vytor walks over to said unnamed ship, and looks it over. Yeah, I agree with Angie. ;) Discovery's not bad though. That last one though, Trune...I dunno, TOO sappy. :P * Angie raps on the ship with her empty beer bottle. "Discovery is boring! That's like what an old grandpa would name a ship." The dock is fairly quiet here, other than some workers trimming the sails experimentally on the unnamed hovercraft sailboat. It's a reliable ship name! Something you'd name a ship that won't sink! Plus we ARE discovering things. How about Polaris? * Saki sits calmly on the deck, staring off at the far storm and leaning on one propped-up elbow. That's good too. But I'm biased, of course. * Vytor walks up and down the dock, looking the ship over * Trune quirks a lip, "Polaris is okay." Can't argue with that. It's good luck! Guards against getting lost. Not that it'll be a problem with me around. Hey, our lines were the same length! That's good luck. * Niri tilts her head and blinks at Angie. ... Avoidance Kata! «ooc: BAD » << ... >> << lol >> «ooc: wtf! ;) » << Anyways! Back to game >> * Saki all but lays back along the pier, staring listlessly into the distance as she waits on the group to ... well, decide anything. So, Polaris then? Who wants to do the honors of breaking the bottle on the hull? Ooh! Me! * Mikel glances around. What? I'll do it! Just don't miss. It would be a shame to waste that bottle. ...If he misses he's fired. And then we'd have to throw Mikel in after it. * Niri snickers Hey! Remind me to mss on purpose now. And then he'd be soaked and would have to miss his date. You'll just end up wet in the end. * Angie steps back and watches Trune with an amused smirk. "Make sure you give it a hell of a whack. It's harder than it looks." * Mikel waves an idle hand at the ocean, causing a bit of water to swirl up into the air for a moment. * Trune smiles slightly, "Show off. Can I have the bottle?" The dull brown wood and bright silver structure of the boat awaits its baptism with the Meribian draught. * Mikel gestures for whoever has the bottle to hand it over to Trune. * Vytor is standing by the ship, waiting for the group to arrive. Mikel meanwhile, plays with some of the waves. They do seem to be getting rougher as the day progresses. * Niri grins and shakes her head. "Showoff is right." Bah, no appreciation. * Saki makes no motion to move, the bottle casually standing next to where she's laying down. Huh. Saki's got it. * Mikel sends a tendril of water over to grab the bottle and bring it over towards Trune. "There. And I'm seriously not going in after it if you miss." * Trune reaches down and carefully takes the bottle, looking to line it up with the ship's hull, "Anyone want to make a rousing speech?" Just break the damn bottle. This all seems like a terrible waste of wine to me. * Mikel clears his throat. "For adventure and the future of exploration! There. Requirement fulfilled." * Vytor applauds lihgtly Awesome. Here goes... * Trune lines up the bottle with the hull of the ship one more time, then suddenly strikes the hull with all of his strength! The bottle shatters quickly and wine goes splooshing on the hull, and then the rest of it dribbles into the sea along with bits of glass. I hereby name thee 'Trombe'! First name after the bottle was broken, I win. <<...sorry. Kill that. ;)>> << Bahhaahhaah >> << oogh. >> «ooc: You're all freaking obsessed ;) » << We are mere- TROMBE! >> * Mikel offers some applause as well. << crazy people! >> * Saki closes her eyes for but a moment in reverence, then has hauled herself up to her feet in one fluid motion. * Angie wipes her middle finger along the wine-soaked hull of the ship and sticks the finger into her mouth. She makes a little noise of approval. "That was a good year." So what's the name of this ship? I think we settled on all of us calling it something different. This way it'll get a complex and have to work harder to feel good about its-... wait. Bad plan No no no. Its name is Polaris. Polaris by popular vote. Also, I don't THINK it's sentient. Yet. Maybe we can plug Tanan into it. Polaris is a fine name. Regardless of superstition, the ship remains quite silent about it's new name. Although some sailors in the rigging do give a big cheer from up yonder! * Mikel offers said sailors a cheery grin and wave. See, the sailors like it. That settles it! You have to have the sailor lobby on your side or you're sunk in this county. ...was that a pun? All right, now that the ship has a name, I suggest we look it over and get it ship-shape, as it were. * Mikel groans. Angie, you're walking the plank. * Saki crosses her arms, looking unimpressed. Angie's been taking it easy on the puns lately. We should be grateful. Don't you remember? She used to be far worse. Time has aged us all. * Vytor heads aboard the Polaris to look it over * Trune follows Vytor. The gangplank is out and the group is welcomed aboard with free reign of the ship. It is an almost carbon copy of the previous two vessels. However, unlike it's sisters, the "Polaris" has not bee retrofitted on the masts. They are all new, reinforced, and have ability to torque much more before becomign damaged in high winds. The engine's horsepower has also been increased, so sailing against the wind is more expedient. * Vytor goes to look over the engine, figuring he's not good at much else on a ship that doesn't need fixing Some of the cargo hold is still in the process of being laoded and accounted for, and the workers are testing the sails. * Mikel lets out a whistle as he examines the ship. "Definitetly one hell of a ship, she is." Vytor finds it to be powered by a standard heavy duty lovelace Engine. Like the Destiny but many times large in output and size. There's plenty of fuel to run it for quite awhile. There is also a fully outfitted gundeck with 24 conventional cannons and ballistas. Well, unless there's something untowards going on, we can possibly head out as soon as were loaded. * Angie tours the ship, familiarizing herself with the fittings and ending up on the bridge. She leans over the huge seat chart spread across the table, tracing her fingernail along some of the coastlines she helped to map. * Mikel lets out a whistle at the firepower, examiining a few of the cannons. The bridge is central located on the deck, raised up slightly with a great view. AT the rear of the ship is the captains cabin and below that ladders leading to belowdeck quarters. The front of the ship has a cargo ramp that can be opened to deploy vehicles in an amphibuous environment. Mikel finds the guns are sturdy Takkar construction, with some silver modifications. The ammunition encompasses standard balls, chain shot to de-mast enemy vessels, and grapeshot for anti-personnel fire. There is also apparently 1 sub cannon that can be loaded with elemental effect charges. * Mikel is... impressed. Very impressed. * Trune finally perks up at the sub cannon, "Ooh, elements on a cannon? Hmm..." * Ryllan quietly slips off to get the aforementioned amphibeous vehicle. two of the 24 are swivels cannons are mounted as chasers on the rear and forward sides for emergency situations Maybe we can get her to just wait in range of this little surprise and see how she likes a facefull of cannon fire. * Vytor goes to see about getting the Destiny loaded onto the Polaris. << faceful* >> The Destiny is still at the unlaoding area of the Gulf Queen, so it's a relatively simple task to drive it several piers down and into the hangar of the Polaris. It taks up a bit more space than the other handful of Land cruisers stowed down, but you can fit it easily enough, as this was built to accomodate such things. * Vytor gets the Destiny loaded and secured on board. Angie has a great treat at a sea chart that's been updated with the coastline of Europe/AFrica, or what they are estimated to be from recorver data. * Mikel mulls. "I'll get mine on board in a bit as well, I guess. Not just yet, though." He spares a glance back towards the town proper, hrming. "Maybe I can dodge Niri with it." << recovered >> The crew is about 50 men strong at the moment, adequate to run the place, but still not full manning. Built into the bridge is also a communication system like their radios, so the fleet can keep in voice contact, in addition to signaling. * Niri is distracted, getting her gear and looking very thoughtful as she ponders some secret plot. The only bad part about it all is how bare and unpersonalized everything is... it really did just roll off the shipyard. * Mikel makes a note to suggest adding a bit of pizzazz to the ship before looking to see if he can sneak away for a bit. * Trune eyes Mikel out of the corner of his eye, "Have fun on your date. Tell us everything!" ...you /suck/. * Mikel takes this moment to just spring off the boat and dash off. You'd do the same for me, don't deny it. * Trune cups his hands around his mouth, "Just be careful! Older women are tricky!" * Mikel shouts over his shoulder. "Speaking from experience with Venus and Pluto?!" ...Not commenting! And with that, the fresh captains prepare to sail the waves! While a certain mage enjoys one more night of shore leave with the key to calming the stormy seas... == SESSION END == >> 18 XPs! Session Close: Sun Aug 12 01:18:01 2007