The Wastelands

[MiscChaos]

Acharnel freezes her smile on her face as he mentions Frigid Pass. If she remembers the place, it was obviously visited during her time as a mass murderer since she didn't really travel before her village was killed or leave the forest after... whatever it was that made her stop killing. She always gets a really bad headache if she tries to force herself to remember why that is. In any case, it would be a severely bad idea to let this lad know she, in fact, IS the demon elf that he's probably been looking for. After all, she did slaughter his parents, suspecting him of being followers of the Unnamed One. She didn't even know if she was right or not in the end, she just killed them as their child ran for the village head's house. She needs to repent for her crime, but telling Linus on board this ship, what with it's little room to maneuver, would be suicidal.

"Mmmm, now that's a good start." She purrs as he moves his hand around her waist. She needs to keep this act up if she wants to keep him from suspecting anything. "I can't say I've been to Frigid Pass before, but you make it sound lovely. Maybe you and I should visit when this is over? You could... show me the sights." She finishes the last of her thoughts suggestively, making it clear that it's not the sights she's interested in. The sound of there being maps available interests her and she decides she just has to go check it out. "Keep me in your thoughts, Linus. I know you'll be in mine." Leaving him with that to think about, she disengages from him and seeks out the source of the maps. Knowing just where the hell she is would be invaluable.

[Zender_Solarheart]

As the fellow merc explains what he knows of certain "trouble spots" in the Wastelands, Dana begins making a mental list of those areas.

1: Rivers are like hives to monsters, particularly slimes. Best to obtain water elsewhere if at all possible.
2: Avoid going too deep into forests. Rather self-explanatory, but still worth a note.
3: Rule of thumb with hornets: "If it's yellow, stay calm and mellow, but if it's brown, shoot that fecker down."
4: Nighttime travel is asking for trouble, especially on the plains. Another rather obvious note, but still worth mentioning.

"Thank you. I'll keep all that in mind."

Just as Dana's about to turn around, though, the elderly man mentions a map of the wastes, up for sale at ten Talons. Feeling around in her pockets, Dana makes a count of her coins...and that'd run her for half of what she has. Ouch. Chances are that she'll be run at least ten of those just for a night at the inn, so if she did buy that map, she'd basically be bankrupting herself the moment they reach shore. His offer of a trade to halve the price is intriguing, though...

"A trade, hmm? And what did you have in mind?" In the back of Dana's mind, something takes notes of the way he just looked at her, and starts getting ideas of certain..."favors" that he may request. Well, Dana is no slut, so she wouldn't accept an offer like that...though, she is formulating a number of alternative deals that she herself could propose. Splitting a bounty is one such option, as is travelling together for added safety, since she seems better-equipped for danger than he is. Granted, he's got stuff a little better than the majority of people in her sight, who look more like street thugs than anyone actually competent with a blade...but he could still use a skilled swords-woman like herself for some extra protection. She may have been nigh-defenseless when she first used her father's blade...but ever since then, she's practiced with it 3 times a day, every day that she could manage. Had she the degree of skill back then that she does now, that warlock would have fallen with little trouble, if any at all.

[LoneWolf]

"I don't put much faith in anything I've heard of before arriving somewhere like this. Half the time the stories are nonsense, otherwise the place is crawling with competition because everyone else heard the same rumours. If you get really lucky, they're nonsense and the place is covered with competitors." Alaric shrugs. "Still, it sounds like as good a place to start as any, and I don't mind teamwork." He doesn't bother to add 'if my partner's competent' - no-one ever admits to being incompetent, so there's no point in bringing it up. If it turns out that he'd do better alone, he can always leave later.

As for a 'false sense of security', he finds it amusing that humans think "don't let your guard down" is more useful advice than "make sure you put your pants on in the morning". Comes from soft living, probably - 'civilised' folk can survive even if they don't keep their guard up... most of the time.

[[Brand_Name]]

Kylie ensured that her swords were in their proper locations, right at her side. Slowly she strapped her top on, only now beginning to realize that she'd hopped into a foreign land with hardly any idea of what she would do once she got there. Luckily for her, this prick of a man had offered her a job that seemed fair enough, although she should keep her wits about her. Her first impression of the orc had been more than positive, but this man seemed shady. "Yeah, whatever. I guess I could help out. Here Porkchop! Come 'ere my little man, wherever you are!"

[Argonaut]

Elspeth came out of her day dream as Ser Ethan asked her a question. She tried to look at him, but immediately blushed and looked away. It was almost shameful, actually, and she was ready to die of embarrassment. Her she was, being relatively capable in the Wastelands for so long, only to be rescued by her hero from a single Orc. Elspeth thought back as to what lead her to the predicament they found her in. "Bit off more than I could chew, I suppose. They were asking for it, with their lewd comments and all." She replied matter of factually, keeping her eyes forwards to avoid any judgmental glares. Occupying herself by looking over the various dents and marks in her armor, Elspeth let out a sigh, remembering when it used to shine like a mirror. First chance she got, she promised herself to return it to its former glory. "I usually prefer traveling alone. While its a little more dangerous, it makes the war stories all the more delicious. Ever heard of the Great Hydra?" Elspeth smirked, remembering what her village used to call the monster. While she usually wasn't one to brag, something seemed to come over her and force her to tell the story of her single handledly bringing down the colossal demon.

At the moment, it was her grip that worried her. Not being able to feel comfortable on the horse, Elspeth gave the woman sitting ahead of her a small squeeze, leaning into her ear. "Mind if I take the reins?" She asked. Elspeth was more than a good horseman, and took pride in her flexibility and skills on horseback. If she had one chance to redeem herself in front of Ser Ethan, it'd be riding a horse.

[Reaver]

Darius chuckled as he decided how much to reveal. "It has nothing to do with faith or rumors, my skeptical orc. I've had a person scouting the land for a couple of hours now. Once we dock all I have to do is meet up, cross-check the locations with map, plan a safe route and work our way there. And before you ask, yes my person is very reliable." Darius didn't really care for either of their attitudes but if they were going to help him cleanse ruins in the name of Myn then he had no real reason to hate them. With luck Darius hoped to clear more than one ruin before his pledge to Myn ended. Afterwords he planned to leave them since he rather not include them in an act to Irilin.

"Teamwork is definitely important but it only works when there is trust." Darius turned to glare at both of them only for a second before finally emerging topside. He decided he wasn't going to give them any thought unless necessary. Their help would be enough for him. He needed nothing more from them.

[[Brand_Name]]

Kylie waited for Darius to leave for the air above them. "What a dick, amirite? she asked the orc quietly so that Darius wouldn't hear. "If push comes to shove with that one, we got each other's backs, yeah?" She gave him a bit of a girly smile in hopes of showing that she was being truthful.

[Grape_Drink]

Sidra

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

"Has there been any news of Dragons as of late?"

The Serenithian male to your right looks at you incredulously

"Dragons? Well I surely hope there hasn't been any news about them lately... Most Dragons avoid the Wastelands- claim their cursed. We do have a number of landwryms running about though... Nasty buggers, taking up refuge in the larger caves and such."

"That's not completely true," Ser Ethan butts in. "There's a few of them up North, and don't forget that Shadow dragon that took up residence inside the Devil King's home."

"Bah. That's just a fairy tale" The Serenithian retorts, though judging by his tone he doesn't even seem to believe himself.

Your traveller in worn and beaten armor begins to tell a fantastic tale as you pull to the side of the road, the Serenithian and Rastanite soldier tossing you your supplies to get dressed. You're actually quite surprised to find that the Rastanites here don't seem to be very interested in the more sensual pleasures, looking you only in the eyes when they look at you at all. Obviously the Serenithian man to your right has been oggling you this whole time, but that's to be expected from that clergy...

Elspeth

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

"I usually prefer traveling alone. While its a little more dangerous, it makes the war stories all the more delicious. Ever heard of the Great Hydra?"

"I've heard of the beasts, never met one first-hand..."

Ser Ethan occasionally turns his head back with a nod, listening intently to the tale as he keeps an eye now mostly on the skies, pulling the horses to the side as the others toss the elvish girl her supplies. You catch the lightest glint of fascination in his eye, though he mostly nods and comments from time to time on "a fine strategy" here or "I'm surprised that worked" there.

You notice a man from mercenary town galloping up towards your group, letter in hand as Ser Ethan takes a few steps towards him.

"Mind if I take the reins?"

"Well I've been offering for-" The woman seems to catch your quite literal meaning as she sighs. "Oh. You mean the horse. Sure thing."

She would maneuver herself quite expertly with one foot in the stirrup behind you. Her maneuver would give you a clear full-body view. She plants her hands on your thighs as they lightly run through the chain mesh underneath the metal skirt.

Sidra and Elspeth

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

The two of you can hear Ser Ethan speaking with the messenger up ahead...

"It's a letter from your f-"

"Ahem."

"Er... My apologies, sir. It's a letter. Shall I read it?"

"But of course."

"Right... Ahem... Dear most pompous Rastanite..."

"Sounds like them already."

"I'm quite happy to inform you that I'll be busy on an expedition along the forest near mercenary town. We've caught word of a Hornet's nest, and plan to wipe the beasts out before they can spread further."

"Heh, sounds good to me..."

"And that you'll be in charge of informing the new mercenaries arriving on board of their potential missions..."

"... That's a joke, right? Isn't that what the Radamis priest is for?"

"And that you'll have to utilize your own change for the free rooms we have promised to provide. You will be compensated at a later date. Signed, Knight Commander Lendetta."

Without even taking the letter, Ethan turns around, hands clenched as he shakes a fist at the forest, seething. He's been rather polite up until this point, but a more vulgar side rears its ugly head as he cups his hands, letting out a single word into the forest depths...

"CUUUUUUUUUUUUUNNNT!"

And with that, he turns around without another word, shaking his head as he hops on his horse. Birds flying out of the nearby trees startled as they take off.

"Double time, folks. We got a ship to catch before people start to depart."

Rayle

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

GM Roll; Bluff/Intimidate- 15 +1(witch class) -2(Dwarven Merchant's are hard to lie to) = 14
GM Roll; Perception- 9 +1(your past) = 10

"How about a new deal. You give me a free dose of the tea that may or may not work and I won't tell the church your running around with contraband."

"No deal! Why would I give something this valuable away for..."

The dwarf looks to the side, trailing off as a red headed priestess of Cara passes by, nodding to you on her way. The dwarf stares at her agape, face turning pale as he chucks the pamphlet and tea bag into the air and makes a run for it, the priestess catching them as she quirks a brow.

"Huh... I wonder what that was about..."

She looks at the pamphlet quizzically, eyes taking on a more stern look as she reads the front before smiling.

"Oh! One of those pamphlets, huh. Wonder what spooked him..."

She shrugs, handing the pamphlet and bag to you as she continues on her way. Something felt... Off about her. Very off... It's only as she leaves your vision that you suddenly not that she had a symbol of the Unnamed One around her wrist, likely right in the dwarf's face given his height... Should you turn around to look at her, you would find she has all but vanished.

It also seems that you're approaching the port.

Acharnel

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

"I can't say I've been to Frigid Pass before, but you make it sound lovely. Maybe you and I should visit when this is over? You could... show me the sights."

"I- Y... Yeah, we should." His face would be flustered as you speak, and you'd likely notice that he's enjoying the closeness a bit too much...

"Keep me in your thoughts, Linus. I know you'll be in mine."

"Right..." He rubs the back of his neck as you unravel yourself from him and continue on your way.

You find the map seller easily enough. The human female lets you look over them without any hassle and you take note that the town of Drubkirk seems to be along a straight road from Merc Town. Judging by the map it's about a day and a half away by foot. She offers to sell you the entire map for 8 talons, with the individual town maps for an additional two talons each. It's not the cheapest price, but it's about as much as any merchant would charge for a map of a frontier part of the world... You have to almost question the accuracy of it though, given the lack of official maps.

"Gots it straight from me friend when 'e went on a visit 'ere ah few years back. 'E's a follower o' Crux, 'e is."

As she says this, you note that you're approaching the port.

((Character will be considered to have the time to choose whether to buy the map or not as I transfer into mercenary town in the next post.))

Dana

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

GM Roll; Listen- 8

"A trade, hmm? And what did you have in mind?"

"I'm gettin' on in my years. It's doubtful I'll survive in the wastes on my own, and you do look like a capable mercenary..." He taps the map against his hand, seeming to be debating something as he looks towards the sky. The man grimaces as he taps his heel against the wood a bit. He mumbles something unintelligible under his breath as he changes the subject.

"Tell yeh what. I got some things to settle up in Drubkirk with an old friend. Business deals and such... A Lorannan in it if yeh help an older fellow out, keep them monsters off my back as well as any possible assassins down in Drubkirk, and the gold's yers."

He then looks at the map in his hand, blinking.

"And I suppose that doesn't deal with this here map. Hrm... Well... Y'see... As I was saying. I'm getting on in my years, and yeh are a rather pretty lass... Maybe yeh could help me out. Yeh need a map, and I wouldn't mind a pretty sight 'fore I potentially march to my death..." He hesitantly motions towards your breasts as he says this. "Just... Putting it out there if yer looking fer a bargain. No fancy dancing er any silly business. This here map could save yer life, after all."

Before you can respond he stands up, going to walk off as you seem to be approaching the port.

"Ehh... Just come see me at the inn if yer interested. In either proposition if not both." He winks to you.

Kylie

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

"Yeah, whatever. I guess I could help out. Here Porkchop! Come 'ere my little man, wherever you are!"

The fuzzy rat "porkchop" jumps down from one of the wooden beams onto your shoulder, sniffing the air mildly.

Triana

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

You watch the crew and mercenaries on deck... Most of them seem to have stopped peddling their wares as they wait patiently, the upper deck becoming crowded with more and more folk, magi, priests and priestesses, mercenaries, and you note that half of them look like they could barely fight to save their lives, let alone make a living off of the art- some of them standing proudly, others rather quiet...

A water spirit seemed to convey fear of some great beast roaming the depths as you approached land... Looking into the waters below, a dark figure is slithering, though it remains underneath and far enough away that only a sharp eye would notice it without being informed. The ocean spirit informs you that the beast seems to be hurt when it approaches the ship too closely, and thus it's unlikely for it to attack. The slithering form is... Unnerving. The spirit informs you that somebody on board attracted its attention.

((I'll be getting the next post up here shortly of the physical landing, I just wanted to get this one out there first. If the other one goes up before you have a chance to post, feel free to comment on both of them.))

[Nobudi]

Damn, Sidra was frustrated. Her leads were going to places impossible for her to go alone.
The Demon Lord's Fortress was in the Heart of the Wastes, where the number of adventures that had gone and come back could have been counted on a single hand.
... But, she'd have the ones responsible for the murder of her village pay for their crimes.
She had much to do, but it would all start with getting stronger.
As she got dressed with her leather armor, she did not bother removing her cloak, but not covering her body as she dressed. She had long lost any embarrassment in hiding her body , as she had been too busy hunting for clues and leads to have such thoughts in her head.
"Its rude to stare," she did say to the perverse clergyman bluntly. She didn't get uncomfortable around him, but neither was she some sort of show to be gawked at.
"And may I have back my crossbow back yet?" she said, disgruntled. "I need to check if the weapon is still usable, and I have no intentions on having those massive wasps around while I am still armless. And I promise you, I have no intents on shooting you in the head... as of yet."

[redkeri13]

Triana quietly observed the rest of the mercenaries crowding the deck, each individual different from the last - some looking proud and eager to being their adventures, others quiet and patient, watching the port draw nearer, and most of them looking completely inexperienced. At least my healing abilities will probably soon be in high demand among these people, she considered.

The cry of a water spirit snapped her out of her reverie, and she turned her attention to the waters below to see the beast it had alerted her to. Her eyes widened at the sheer size of it's dark writhing bulk far underneath the ship, and was unnerved even after the ocean spirit informed her that it seemed to be keeping its distance from the vessel. Did this ship have some kind of divine barrier? she thought. And what about the other information the spirit had given her: that someone on board had caught the beast's attention?

She looked around back at the ship, and the people gathered on it. Maybe she could call upon the wind spirits to hasten the gusts of wind in the sails and make the ship go faster... she should at least alert a member of the crew about the monster. Looking around, she tried to locate an ship's officer or crew member she might be able to convince to listen...

[Grape_Drink]

Red is those who were on horseback, green is... the giant pile of adventurers... I'm trying a new map style for each one until I find something I really like for the non-overland map... This one is called "shitty drawing on engineering paper," and will likely not see use after folks leave merc town.

Triana

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

GM Roll; Search- 16
GM Roll; Diplomacy- 3 - 1 = 2
The members of the crew seem to ignore you as they go about their work. Calling a wind sprite is easy enough work as you find the sails pushing you closer to the docks that much faster.

You find the captain easily enough and try to reason with him, but he seems to be too busy making preparations for the approaching landing with his crew as he turns to you.

"Look lass, the port's just moments away... Even if there -was- the possibility of a giant monster being under this 'ere ship, and I ain't saying it is, but if there was, we're moments from shore and this ain't even m'ship. I honestly couldn't give a rat's arse... You there! Get those barrels ready fer unloading!"

It seems he isn't in the most listening of moods...

Sidra

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

GM Roll; Lore- 5
The Serenithian quirks a brow. "It's rude to admire fine art?" He asks confusedly, tossing you your crossbow as your Rastanite escort grabs you by the arm, hefting you up onto his horse.

The name Lendetta doesn't sound familiar at all...

Elspeth

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

GM Roll; Ride- Natural 20 (+2 since it's a skill, -2 since you have a Serenithian behind you trying to get frisky). Level of skill/this scene will be left to the player. Serenithian is likely to get a bit touchy-feely on the way into town.
GM Roll; Lore- 2 + 1 = 3

The name Lendetta doesn't ring any bells, which is surprising; You thought you knew most of the Three Chain Clergy in charge that happened to currently be stationed in the Wastelands...

Sidra and Elspeth

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

As you finish preparing, the followers of Serenith wrapping rather large cloaks about themselves, you make the final stretch to merc town in record time, taking note of the various buildings around the town square. At the center of the town square is a small fountain island, with a statue of Rastan at the center. The statue seems... Old. You almost don't recognize it at first.

The depiction of him isn't anything like what you're used to- most of his statues feature reds, blacks, golds, silvers. Typically they're adorned with all sorts of colors, and he's usually featured on a battlefield, or in some other brutal fashion. This statue of him is cracked and old, but judging by the architecture it likely isn't of human make. Perhaps a fine dwarven or dark elven stone cutter from times long since past? His face is haggard with a smirk, a robe around him, a young girl tucked under his arm, his sword sheathed and his hand outstretched towards the sky. By the closeness of it as you pass by, you can read the inscription on the bottom; "A dedication to the father of the stars." It's a beautiful sight, but doesn't seem to be your destination as you approach the port, a number of adventurers already unloading from the ship.

As you're approaching the docks, Ser Ethan turns around, speaking to Elspeth.

"I'd offer you a room, M'lady, but all of them are taken up at the Inn. My chambers are always open to a fellow Rastanite if they need a place to sleep, though I understand that in a place like this, that offer probably sounds uncouth to say the least. Still, it's something to consider if you're having trouble finding a place to rest- I'd rather not see a follower of his greatness out on the streets."

Witches

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

As you approach the island, something feels... Horribly off. Your natural connection to the Arcane seems to be waning exponentially the closer you get to land, while you feel giddy with power, as if your (often less-used by most due to its limitations) sexually-based magics seem to be shining through as if they were natural to you. It's definitely a strange, tingly sensation that you aren't entirely sure leaves you with dread or anticipation.

Kylie and Triana

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

GM Roll; Will Saves- 7 and 1 respectively

Your connection to the Feywild seems to wane for a moment as you approach the island, almost disappearing... And then, as you land and take your first steps onto the island, it hits you like a brick. This place is... Corrupted on a spiritual level. The very air feels thicker than it did from the ship and the spirits seem to almost whisper to you, some telling you to leave immediately, others trying to convince you to come further. It's all too much for your senses to experience so suddenly, and you both find yourselves compulsively staying on the boat, and almost wanting to leave the island right then and there. The thoughts that run through your mind, the sounds... No being, spirit or material, should have to experience those things... It's a dreadful feeling as you watch the others depart, feeling as if you don't want to... Despite your best efforts, even if you wanted to, you find yourselves unable to disembark from the ship.

Everyone:

A Rastanite and his soldiers approach the large gathered group of adventurers, a man that some of you recognize as Ser Ethan speaking up. You've notably arrived a little bit ahead of schedule as the crew helps lead you off the ramp. Murky waters are underneath you, and you see a mountain range just north of the town, likely acting as protection from the rest of the wastelands... Still, why are one of the Three Chains greeting you rather than the Church? What's going on?

"Greetings, my friends. Unfortunately church officials are currently busy dealing with the very problems they hired you for... A shame. Truly... Instead they've left us in their place to fill you all in."

"Bah! Go suck a Dwarven chode, yeh bugger!"

Ser Ethan draws his sword, a symbol of The Unnamed One on its pommel as he looks about. "Truly now. Resulting to insults in a crowd? If you're not a coward you'll come out and fight me. Otherwise, keep that mouth of yours shut while your betters are speaking."

As no one responds, he sighs, continuing.

"The church has reason to believe there were stowaways on board that ship of yours, and they've brought certain friends of theirs unusually close to the port-"

THUNK! An adventurer who had broken into a sprint falls over with an arrow embedded into his knee. He lets out a scream in pain as Ethan continues to talk calmly.

"Take him in for questioning. He was either scared out of his mind or knew something, and I'm leaning towards knowing something... I'll give all of you fair warning; Should you Devil Worshipers still be around, you're all in possibly the worst situation you could ever be in. Welcome to your homelands; you aren't leaving any time soon, and we WILL find you."

He sighs, shaking his head.

"As for the rest of you... The mercenary guild will be registering those who wish to participate in the hunts, and Radamis' scribe Geoffrey within town hall will register any potential map makers. I myself have other things to take care of before the sun finishes setting. The first Twenty of you to get to the guild halls will have free room and board. As for the rest of you... Well... The town outskirts aren't too bad at night when in groups. And there's always the 'economy' inn and tavern near the docks... Captain!"

"Yes, commander?" The captain calls back from the ship as some of you notice something surfacing behind it...

"Get the remaining mercenaries off that ship and set anchor. We aren't setting sail again for at least three we-"


A giant lurch rocks the ship as translucent tentacles shoot through the hull of the vessel, crewmen trying to cut at them as a squid-like being begins to lift the ship out of the water... There are people still on board that ship- sailors, passengers... With a mighty crack, the ship begins to split into splinters! Those with keener eyes take note that the tentacles seem to be sizzling... That was a church-blessed vessel, leading to only a handful of assumptions of what this beast might be- A devil if there ever was one... And now your only ride back to the mainlands is destroyed. Lovely...


Kylie, Triana, and any characters who wouldn't have disembarked the ship with everyone else (whether to talk with the two of them/find out why they weren't disembarking, or for your own reasons)

Spoiler (click to show/hide):

Blackness... A yellow eye staring at you as you emerge from the water. This... Really isn't a good situation. There's no telling what this thing might do! A mercenary from the port begins to yell...

"Swim to shore, damnit! Swim to shore while it's distracted with the ship!!!"

Another mercenary more calmly exclaims "No! Don't move! There's no telling what it might do if it sees a mass of people moving!"

It seems you're left with a choice here. The docks are only a solid five, ten feet away. The crew further out... There's no telling what might happen, but you're all rather close to the docks- surely with enough speed (and some luck) you could make it there in time? If that one mercenary is right though, then perhaps simple light kicks and letting the waves carry you to shore is a better idea...

((I realize these posts have been very jumpy from part to part at times. It should calm down more than a bit with the future posts. Consider it just being "sequential" with each set of actions happening a bit after the previous giving yah time to respond- gotta love openers taking longer than expected, heh. For all intents and purposes, consider this post and the previous one to be interconnected rather than really two seperate posts.))

[redkeri13]

Tirana stepped away from the Captain after he curtly dismissed her, watching him yell orders to the crew as they made ready to dock. She sighed, turning back to the rail and looking to shore. The ship was almost at the docks now anyway, she gave a word of Thanks to the wind spirits for their help in that, thinking maybe they were safe after all and maybe she was worried over nothing.

But then it hit her, the Corruption boiling off this land, engulfing the spiritual plane and almost breaking her connection to the Feywild. The very atmosphere seemed to weigh heavily on her from the overwhelming Corruption that filled it, causing her to fall to her knees as she desperately fought back against the unnatural forces as she gripped the rail, the voices of spirits pure and twisted flooding her head, drowning her. She gripped the ship's rail harder and gritted her teeth in maddened frustration as she watched the other passengers heedlessly disembark the ship onto the dock from where she knelt, unable to bring her legs to move, to bring herself to step on that land so full of the Unnamed One's power no matter how hard she told herself to.

A few moments passed and she found she could begin to resist it to an extent, enough for her to stand. She got back on her feet, leaning over the edge looking down at the waters below, letting the cool air washing off the water's surface calm the maelstrom inside her head a little. Except - the waves were strange, washing around the ship from bow and stern to smash together around the mid-ship next to the dock... no. She turned around, just to see the water out to sea past the ship bulge upwards as something immense rose below the surface. The Sea monster.

The deck lurched violently beneath her feet, and suddenly the surface of the water was rushing up to meet her. She plunged into the black water, struggling upwards, gasping for breath as she emerged, her dark wet hair clinging to her face. All around her were screams and chaos, and before her embedded underneath a mass of thrashing tentacles that wrapped around the stricken vessel - a great yellow eye. Maybe now the Captain would give a Rat's Arse, was the first thing that came to mind, but she quickly dismissed the thought, looking at the churning waters around her for a way to escape being killed or worse by this thing.

Voices shouted over the water from the shore, cries to swim as fast as possible away from the beast, shouts to play dead and let the waves carry them to shore. Triana was inclined to keeping still, given her experience with the primordial monsters that inhabited the corners of the world. But looking around, she saw the crewmen thrashing in the waters close to beast trying to get away, and the town behind her, what if the beast didn't stop with just one ship? Seeing the way the blessed hull seemed to burn the demonic creature, an idea started to form. She couldn't do nothing while people died in front of her, and if her plan worked it might save them... or enrage the beast further.

Using every ounce of power she had left, Triana called as many water spirits as she could, telling them with mental commands to gather up the splintered pieces of the hull, then swim out into the deeper sea, away from the town. There, she told them to throw their missiles from the surface at the beast, to hopefully gain its attention and draw it away. She told the spirits to draw the creature as far away as possible without endangering themselves, then escape for their lives. All while she drifted, helpless, letting the waves carry her to shore.

[[Brand_Name]]

Kylie watched the shaman girl near her begin to cast spells, and she saw the water began to move with a life of its own. As Porkchop stood his ground bravely on her shoulder amidst the debris, Kylie cast her chameleon spell in hopes to be able to slowly swim to shore in safety. "Manu, guardian of the moon, grant me your cloak so that I may move unhindered..." She felt a bit of guilt at not helping the shaman girl in her predicament, but she knew that if she was going to live, she needed to watch out for herself.

[Hazard1325]

Rayle accepts the dwarves items from the woman but feels uneasy about accepting help from a servant of the unnamed one... unfortunately she doesn't have long to dwell on it before the ship begins to shake and the tentacles begin wrapping around the vessel. Rayle lets out a cry of surprise and panic looking around unsure of what to do. She puts the dwarves things away in her pack and moves to the edge of the boat closest to shore glancing over. She's never been particularly practiced at swimming but there seems little choice. She took a moment to listen carefully to the voices she tried to tune out most of the time, with the creatures proximity if it was any kind of demon or devil she might be able to hear what it was thinking. If not she would jump overboard hoping Binky would be able to manage in the water by himself and not claw her to death.

[Reaver]

Darius felt different as he stepped off the boat. His link to Myn seemed to be diminished where as Irilin's presence was greater. "The land must truly be cursed to strain the link with the gods." He said out loud The loss of Myn's influence felt like a dagger to the heart. Ever since he became an Archmage he had always considered himself devote. Even when he worshiped Irilin, Myn was in the back of his mind. The thought he might have to rely on his dark mistress to survive excited and scared him at the same time but he would do what he had to, to survive.

Daruis only knew Ser Ethan by reputation. He knew him to be a reliable but zealous man like most Rastanites. which would mean he would have to be more cautious when acting under Irilin. The speech itself was nice enough but it was full of the typical threats to devil-worshipers and such. Hardly interested in hearing the rest, Darius focused on calling Krafla.

He slipped into his raven's mind, using it's eyesight to see if it could spot any points of interest from its current location before directing its line of sight towards the coast. His familiar would know to return to him now and where to find it's master. He would make time later for a more thorough search after he settled in.

By the time Darius came back to his body, he had missed the part about registering for the hunts and map making. He did hear the part about the free lodging. He could only hope that his new companions would be able to earn one themselves. Twenty spots seemed unfair but would give an unbeatable advantage in the long run. He just needed a distraction to give him a better chance of success. "Perhaps some glowing rocks will keep some of them busy." He mused, just as a better answer showed its ugly, limb-flailing face.

It could have been a giant squid or a demon. Whatever it was, it clearly didn't approve of the docked boat as Darius watched it begin to pummel it with tentacles. He saw that there were a few people still on the boat but with the mass of mercenaries on the docks, the creature's fury would be short lived if it didn't flee soon. Regardless, Darius hoped it would give him enough cover as he made his way towards the Guild Hall.

[Zender_Solarheart]

Well, the old man's deal actually sounds a lot more up Dana's alley than she was expecting. Just an escort mission, protecting him from the Wastelands' danger until he can meet up with someone in Drubkirk. That doesn't sound so bad...

...aaaand there's the part Dana initially thought he'd get to. Oh well, at least it's just a boob-flash; she was worried he'd suggest a blowjob or full-out sex. She might actually consider that one; Alex saw more of her than that, and while it was part of romance, the relationship didn't last, and she felt no shame as he looked upon her back then. If a woman wanted to see a man's chest, he'd flaunt it till the cows come home; in Dana's mind, she can do the same, as long as it's in private. Besides, she could take the geezer one-handed, in the event that he tried anything..."unsanctioned." Of course, before she can even reply to his offer, he's headed for the ship's departure door. Might as well head over there, too. Out she goes, and...

...wait, what's a Rastanite doing here? Dana was told their greeters would be from the Church...oh, that's it, huh? Substitution in an overworked hour. Fair enough, though someone else in the crowd clearly disagrees with that notion. Perhaps it was that dude who tried to run away from the scene like an idiot, and got arrow'd down. It's almost like that old fad of a joke that her friends growing up used to say...though it's so far out of style nowadays, that anyone who says it to act cool is going to get the polar opposite in reactions. The first 20 mercs at the Guild Halls getting free room and board is nice, though; it'd save her the trouble of paying at the inn, and would give her a more flexible budget for buying food and other supplies. She'll need some of that for the trip home, at least...

...assuming Dana ever makes it home, considering how Ravage just decided to literally release the Kraken. Unfortunately, while she was lucky enough to make it off the boat before that thing showed up, there's not much she can do against it by herself. The best she can do at present is cut away at its tentacles, but even then, that'll just stall the creature at most. Running up to the Rastanite, she moves her cape aside to show that she's armed, and asks: "Room for one more at this kalimari buffet?" The Rastanite's been here longer than she has, so she defers to his experience and judgment on whether to stay or go. If her services would be of more use elsewhere, then so be it...though, she would enjoy the opportunity to cut into one of the Unnamed One's beasts right off the bat, as the confident smile would indicate...

[Argonaut]

Elspeth quickly switched spots with the woman, taking a brief glimpse at her lithe body as they swapped. She even shivered ever so slightly as she felt her hands on her hips, Elspeth not being used to the gentle touch of another human. It had been so long since anyone had even listened to her like Ser Ethan was doing, Elspeth was perhaps a little too eager for the slightest bit of attention or common courtesy. Once her tale had ended though, Elspeth kept an eye and ear on Ser Ethan as he talked to the messenger, smiling a little at his swearing. Elspeth was doing a pretty good job of keeping her sailor's mouth under control, but it was only a matter of time till that ended.

Approaching the staute, Elspeth couldn't help but give it a suspicious glare. She was fully aware of Rastan's more academic side, she found it difficult to embrace that side of him. She was a soldier through and through, only appreciating the stars when they gave her light to fight in the middle of the night. The statue however was very beautiful, and she could appreciate the level of craftsmanship involved in making it. A hand went to her necklace, gripping the largest tooth with a Rastan holy symbol engraved in it as she muttered a small prayer. As Ser Ethan turned to talk to her, Elspeth managed to remain calm. "I do appreciate the offer, Ser Ethan. But we shall see. I prefer to work as I sleep; alone." Giving him a small smirk, she waited patiently and looked over the crowd as he addressed them.

[Nobudi]

"It is when the art does not wish to be ogled at," she said drily as she inspected her crossbow.
Nocking the string onto the trigger and dry- firing it, she found the weapon to be usable for the most part, and slung it onto her back.
After she was yanked onto the Rastanian yanked her into his saddle, she mere rode along, taking in the view of the town.
And then Bill attacked.
Sidra sighed aloud as the monster attacked the ship in its berserk state.
She really wanted that free room and board, but she couldn't help but to try and help out.
She dismounted, loaded her heavy crossbow, and with a moments preparation, began to siege any tentacle in sight heartlessly, firing in a slow, steady, and accurate pace.
And just in case, she tried to stay as far as she could away from any tentacle range. One attacked by tentacles, twice cautious.

[LoneWolf]

Alaric might not be familiar with this 'Ser Ethan', but that doesn't mean that the man isn't a welcome sight. The one downside to this whole arrangement had been that he expected to have to deal with the Church of Five - and their 'principles'. Listening to the Rastanite speak - and watching how he handled the skittish adventurer - suggested that he was far more willing to be... pragmatic... than a follower of Myrdur or Radamis would have been.

His musing on the knight's attitude is cut short, however, when the ship they arrived on is suddenly lifted out of the water. A kraken - well, that explains who the 'certain friends' were. Even as the thought flash through his head, he is already moving back towards the docks, one hand instinctively flashing to the hilt of his sword before dropping again. This is the wrong fight for a blade unless the devil decides to attack the docks themselves rather than just the ship. Instead, he looks to see if anyone is close enough to the docks to reach - the most useful thing he can do now is get people out of the water.

[MiscChaos]

Nel has to think a little one whether she wants the maps or not. On one hand, if their accurate, then that'll save her some trouble and even if they aren't they should be in the general ballpark of being right and she can fill in the rest with the right information later. On the other hand, that's 8 fuckin' Talons! And she's admitted that it's a least a few years old. Who knows what could have changed in that time. In the end, that's the deciding factor. She'll get some parchment or something and make her own map, something she KNOWS will be accurate.

"Thank you, but I think I'll pass." She says to the dwarf. Then port comes about and she decides that she's had enough of being on that boat to last a lifetime and disembarks with most of the others. She takes in the speech with, for the most part, dire boredom.

'Yes, yes, it's obvious you consider yourself an alpha male, let's just be on with this already.' She thinks as she waits for something interesting to happen. She doesn't wait long before an unknown man, a stowaway apparently, gets shot in the leg. A smile comes to her face when this man, she doesn't know his name since she signed up for this merely to get away from her crimes for a while, threatens all followers of The Unnamed One. She's starting to think she'll be able to get along with him after all. A brief debate later, she decides against trying to race against who knows how many mercs to be one of those 20 people who get free rooming. If she wanted to sleep for free, she'd simply find some woods, set up a bedroll in a tree, and have a nice nap. Any further thoughts are pummeled just as quickly as the boat is as a beast, well, pummels the boat. Staying as far away from potential tentacle problems as she can, she pulls her bow off of her back and lines up an arrow. "Hm, and here I was thinking I needed some exercise after all that time on the ship. And then what comes across my path but an Unclean beast!" She says as she lets the arrow loose at one of the spots of the tentacle weakened by crushing the holy ship.