As the morning slowly disappears into afternoon, a gentle breeze begins to waft in from the south.  While the day itself is not particularly hot, the breeze is none the less a welcome comfort, especially to those held below the deck.  While no port holes exist anywhere near the cell block, the breeze still manages to find a way to reach the inmates bringing the fragrance of nearby blossoms and food from the markets.
Slowly but surely, the provisions, supplies and prisoners are finally loaded, the ship sets off towards the north.  As the ship slips from the port and begins sliding over the horizon, a beautiful glow covers the vibrant city that makes it seem almost palatial in grandeur…a site those stuck below would never get to see.  Before long the city and all possible land are gone from view.  The long voyage towards Asterock had begun.
The ship continues to glide onward thru calm seas, those above deck are treated to cool winds mixed with the taste of the salt water.  Those below, however, simmer in the increasing heat of the hold.  While a breeze does occasionally filter thru, it is fleeting at best, lasting but a few seconds and giving no real measure of relief.
Eventually day fades into night and the many lanterns and candles aboard the ship are lit; the only light glinting across the ocean surface.  Dinner is prepared and the sailors settle in to eat before spending the remainder of the evening drinking, dancing to music and telling stories of high seas adventure. As the festivities begin to die down and the crew begin crawling into their bunks, a light fog begins to appear. Not quite the thick, pea soup fog one would expect on land but a light almost spider web like mist.  The once clear evening sky was now beginning to disappear under a shroud of mist.  While not the most auspicious way to end an evening, the ship eventually quiets down as sleep overtakes those aboard.
One by one, you all awaken.  Slowly, wearily, you gaze about your surroundings…and something is not right.  Both those in the hold and those in other quarters are keenly aware of a quiet that has settled over the boat.  Sitting up and looking around you realize that no one is there.  For those in the crews quarters (Al’andra, Arryn, and Grumbo), you have found you are the only ones in your cabin, although you distinctly remember there being others.  For those in the hold (Onyx, Lothrin, and Klaus) your fellow inmates have vanished.  There were 6 of you in the cell, now there’s only 3.
This message was lightly edited by the GM at 23:15, Wed 15 June 2016.

Onyx didn't like this dream one bit.  Why was the Reverie so painful for him.  If only he could have another drink.  Just one more.  He stood and looked around, checked the door to see if it was locked, and generally ignored the others who actually were with him.

Lothrin gets up from his rest, stretches once more, and looks around the room, checking for hidden things left by previous prisoners, not paying attention to the two men next to him

Alandra wakens and stares ahead, instantly and acutely aware that something was wrong. It was quiet. Almost too quiet. Rising, she looks about her, knowing full well there is no way she had overslept, and yet the room was cleared of most of the other occupants.

"Get up." she says to the other bodies she sees, rising to her feet and arming herself. "Something's wrong. Very wrong. "

Arryn opened his eyes at the exclamation but otherwise didn't move. He waited a few more moments to see the reaction of the others. When none came he frowned and extricated himself from the small bed. His hair was disheveled and the scowl on his face had grown deeper; a direct relation to the amount of ale imbibed the night before. He looked at the woman making the commotion and very aptly said "What?"

Lothrin rose when the elf addressed him, and asked him what the hell he was doing waking him up from such a good dream

Klaus was both surprised and concerned by his missing cell mates. While he didn't care about their loss, the fact that someone was able to remove them from the cell without disturbing his sleep bothered him. Klaus refused to allow the other members of his cell see his concern. No high born noble would ever allow peasants to see them worried. Klaus decided to remain seated while the others checked their surrounding and the cell door. He would gladly use the exit if it was provided, but let those beneath him do the work.

Al'andra blinked the sleep from her eyes and looked around. "Do you hear that? No. Nothing. It's quiet. Too quiet. " she looks around, unnerved. "Where is everyone?" she asks, looking around the room uneasily.

Lothrin walks to the door and tries the handle, but it wont budge

Arryn listened to the woman speak allowing the words to sink in. "Have you looked on deck? Maybe the crew went about their business; didn't bother to wake us up we're only security anyways?" he said as he gathered his sword and headed for the door to the ships deck.

Frustrated, Thorin slams his shoulder into the door, "Why would they lock us in here, with no food or water, then ditch us?", and slams into the door again

Onyx, the grey elf who is actually quite grey, holds firm on two of the bars.  Surely he must be daft if he thinks it will do anything after he tries his own luck at the locked door.  But as he flexes you hear a slight grinding, like metal on metal.  You see his left arm holding firm but clearly when compared to the right it is not the same.  His natural right arm is equally fixed as he puts his might to the test.  Moments later you could swear the bars were starting to give.  However, he doesn't pause there...it looks like he is digging in and determined.

[OOC: If no one stops him he will continue to bend the bars for the next 10-20 minutes of effort, enough for him to slip through.]
This message was last edited by the player at 14:02, Sun 19 June 2016.

Hey! Elf-man, whatre you doing to those bars?
This message was lightly edited by the player at 05:40, Sun 19 June 2016.

The 5'8" one hundred pound elf in well worn and a bit tattered clothes remarked quite nonchalantly, "Bending them..."

The 6'1" 165 pound elf in standard issue prisoner garbs states, " Well duh, im just wondering if you think you can fit through or are strong enough to bend them!"

Arryn slowly opens the cabin door and peers out into the corridor. Everything appears to be as it was prior to entering the cabin.  Lanterns are lit, provision and water barrels are still about, but still no sign of movement or anyone else.

Arryn's frown deepens he as he steps out into the hall he looked over his shoulder "I'm going up to the deck. Coming?" he said.

In reply to Onyx (msg # 14):

With some minor sounds of resistance, the bars steadily begin to move farther and farther apart. Before long, the strange elf is able to barely slide himself thru.

OOC: Did you just want to spread them enough for yourself or try to accomodate anyone larger?

Al'andra, momentarily distracted by the odd turn of events, fails to acknowledge her comrades. Suddenly, her eyes blink, back in the hear and now and she turns her head confusedly. "Hmm? Oh, yes... yes, of course. " she states, turning on her heels and starting after Arryn.

Onyx deftly slid himself through the space that looked too thin and gazed briefly at those left inside before scanning the area outside the cell for sights or sounds of alarm.  He held a finger to his lips before setting about to see if there was a way to free the others.

Look for any way to open the cell from the outside while listening to see if I can hear anyone else about

You detect no sounds nor signs of life. The area looks like any standard ships hold with barrels and assorted crates tied firmly in place. A brief scan reveals an area where several individuals had been seated, as is evidenced by several small barrels placed around a makeshift table with playing cards upon it. A metal ring with several keys lays upon one side of the table.

Onyx retrieves the keys and heads back to the cell where he pauses and speaks, "So, who are you and why are you here?  Speak quick and true as I can just as easily walk away instead of freeing you.  I want to know you before I set you free."

Lothrin laughs,  "My fellow elf, you were in here just the same as the rest of us, we are all sinners, does it matter the crimes?"

 Lothrin sighed, "But, if you must ask, my name is Lothrin, im here for 200 accounts of thievery and 3 accounts of murder"

Onyx looked to Klaus for an answer as he held the keys silently in his hands...

Elf, maybe you should tell us who you are and why you are here before we give anymore answers" Lothrin asked the gray elf holding the keys to his escape

"Onyx Tenebrae, and I'm here for habitual drunkenness."  The words were short and to the point.  But so far from the norm that they might have shocked someone more familiar with elves and their way of life.

Arryn and Al'andra step out into the hall with the currently mute Grumbo following closely behind. As you weave your way thru the ship nothing seems to be out of place; No signs of struggle nor distress.  As you approach the stairway you can see no visible sunlight shining down into the ship.

Arryn looks back towards Alandra and the other man who hadn't spoken. "Seems like no one is left on the ship. We better make sure we're not headed into a reef or something worse." he said as he ascended the stairs "Either of you know how to steer one of these?" he asked.

I ask the gray elf if im free to leave, while pulling up my pants.


OOC- Can i hear them talking above deck?

OOC: As of yet, no, the group above you is using somewhat lowered voices which are also being drowned out by the constant creaking and groaning of board and rope.

As Arryn, Al'andra and Grumbo ascend the stairs they can clearly see that it is night, or at least they believe it's night.  A thick fog has enveloped the entire ship making vision near impossible. As you gaze about you find you can't see either end of the ship.  A few lanterns are lit but seem very subdued and should most certainly be shining much brighter than they are.  A slightly chilled breeze races across the deck yet the fog never seems to move. The canvasses flap overhead and the ropes strain in response.

From where you stand you are in the middle of the ship (from what you remember as far as the location of the stairs).

Seeing that Klaus refuses to respond, Onyx motions for Lothrin to join him as he unlocks the door and then once Lothrin is out locks it once more.  He couldn't take a chance that the silent one was an arsonist or worse.

OOC: Just trying to move things forward and giving an out to the DM for the player that is unresponsive.

In reply to Onyx (msg # 33):

No no, that's fair, I get it

Lothrin strides out of the cell, stretching and thanking the elf for freeing him

OOC: Well, im a murderer sooo..
This message was last edited by the player at 15:37, Tue 05 July 2016.

Lothrin walks around the room he in, searching for anything of use

In reply to Lothrin (msg # 36):

OOC: The section of the ship you're in holds many different things. Weapons and such you see no trace of but are you looking for anything specific?  "anything of use" can be interpreted in many ways.

In reply to The Powers That Be (msg # 37):

I meant weapons, better clothes, lockpicks
so and so

In reply to Lothrin (msg # 38):

Ah yes, at this point there doesn't seem to be anything along those lines.

Al'andra looks about the deck and frowns. "This is most unnatural. It is as if we are set adrift. " she frowns, giving a wary eye to the world about her. "If their are any in the hold still, or if they are loose, we will have other problems. We are but three. " she adds, her hand falling to her hip.

Arryn nodded and then began looking for a route down into the hold "We were hired as protection. Let's find out who we were protecting them from. If there is anyone left at all." he said as he drew a knife; his sword would probably be too large to swing in the confines of the hold and surely the tunnels that ran through the ship.

Lothrin realized that there were people guarding him, and that they might be above deck, so he quietly moved towards the exit to the main deck. "Onyx, there might be other people, and we are criminals, they might not be entirely friendly, be on the lookout"

Onyx gave the man in the cell one last look then moved silently with Lothrin.  It was time for them to uncover just what was going on.  "Perhaps they aren't aware of who all was a member of the crew and who wasn't."

Amused by the elf's intellect, Lothrin ponders this for a bit, and decides that its a good idea. "Yeah, that could work, let me get out of this shirt"

OOC: Shirt was Standard Issue Prisoner Garb

OOC: So I'm clear, my party above is attempting to find their way down below, and my party below is attempting to find their way up?

OOC: Yep, party below is trying to disguise as a crew member

Plan would be to search the ship for anyone basically. Working their way from the deck to the hold.

My plan is to search the ship for any sign of weapons or goods that can be use to not look like a criminal just escaped from the hold  :)

Onyx followed Lothrin only long enough to determine if he was going to check all the rooms below deck.  If at any point he started above deck without finishing the job at hand Onyx will part ways until he's comfortable with the outcome and situation below.

Lothrin searches the first couple rooms, then decides that there might be an armory above deck, and heads toward the stairs

Would be following Arryn down below to search the decks, to clarify

In reply to Alandra (msg # 50):

I assumed as much but clarification is always appreciated.

Seeing that there are no other clothes to be found, or items of use, Onyx will search the hold for goods or consumables like food and drink.  If they are in fact left for dead he needs to assess the situation at hand for just how long they have to resolve the situation.

Arryn and Al'andra slowly make their way down from the upper deck and through the first level.  As they finish decending the steps they can hear the sounds of movement definitely coming from this floor. Upon reaching the bottom and peering around the corner they see two figures, an odd-looking elf anda more normal looking half-elf searching amongst the various boxes and barrels.

OOC: Can i hear them, if so id like to see if i can trick them into thinking we are crew members

In reply to Lothrin (msg # 54):

Unfortunately Lothrin, you did not hear them coming.

Lothrin continues rummaging before deciding to just ditch the shirt

Onyx motioned to his companion before mentioning the fruit and water. At least they could survive on this for quite a while.

Lothrin exclaims at the luck, they might not have food or water, but that can change with a simple break and enter

Arryn readies his dagger as he moves towards the two figures rummaging through the stores. "You there! Identify yourselves." he says loudly. He couldn't imagine these two could cause a ship full of men to go missing but he wasn't taking any chances.

Thorin jumps in the air and yelps before turning around and thinking, he states "My name is Thorin and this is my pal Platinum, we are the guards for the prisoners"


OOC: Trying to trick ya guys

Onyx remains silent and watches for their response to Lothrin's words.

Arryn furrowed his brow as he moved closer to the jumpy guard "That's odd as we're the ones who were brought on for security. If you aren't guards can I assume, at least, that you aren't prisoners trying to escape?" Arryn looked down at his fist and then raised his hand towards the speaker.
This message was last edited by the player at 19:25, Thu 21 July 2016.

Onyx looked at the man then and spoke in a slightly raspy voice, "I'm not part of the crew and I'm not locked in their cage."  He took a step away from Lothrin so the man could see he wasn't armed with a weapon.  "But, from the sounds of things there isn't any crew.  I don't know where they are and I don't know why I'm not with them.  Do you?"  The elf knew the man was strong but he wondered just how agile the man would be in the lower decks.

"I was kept in a seperate room, more emergency guard then full time guard, they set me up in a closet and told me to wait untill the prisoners go wild to reveal myself" Lothrin blurted out quickly.

Much to Lothrins surprise, his voice suddenly raises to a high falsetto as he speaks.

OOC: LMFAO

Lothrin tries to act confident, but is really embarrassed because of the voice crack

Arryn eyes the elf warily and then turns his gaze on Lothrin "I know when I'm being lied to and don't take kindly to it; but the situation here is dire and I can't turn down an extra pair of hands no matter how dirty they might be. I'll be watching though and don't think I won't string you up and leave you for the buzzards if you try anything." he faced the elf once more "Any chance either of you can steer a ship? If you can't we'd be best to launch a boat and row. It'd be better than waiting for this ship to run aground or be scuttled in a storm."

Onyx shook his head, "Nope.  I'm helpful but I'm not a captain nor navigator."

Arryn frowned "Let's take anything here that will be useful and find a boat to launch from this cursed ship then." he said. The man looked to the prisoner "You stay close to me." he said sternly. Arryn then began to look over the stores for any food or water he could find while keeping an eye on Lothrin.

"Dont need to keep such a close eye on me, im not in here for anything bad.."

After a brief scavange of the lower level you move up to the middle of the ship, the crew and officers quarters, and begin a slow search room by room.  The main area is wide open save for the various hammocks slung up to the beams.  No one is found in any of them nor is anything of real value.  The officers quarters, located on the sides, have slightly better looking accomedations, as would be expected;  Straw filled mattresses and writing desks, even a few paintings hung about.  Aside from a basic assortment of weapons (a few daggers and short swords), you find only two long swords that appear to be of superior value.  Perhaps worth more than the others but nothing extraordinary one can see.

Arryn looks over the swords appraisingly and offers one to the Elf. Keeping the other to himself; or at least away from the prisoner for now. He takes the time to open desk drawers look under mattresses and behind pictures wanting to be sure nothing was missed.

Lothrin tries to pocket a dagger without the guy watchijg him noticing

In reply to Lothrin (msg # 73):

Onyx takes the long sword and says nothing even if he notices Lothrin with the dagger.  He would need a weapon if trouble started or pounced upon them unannounced.  If only he could find something solid to drink.  The thoughts of his sister were already starting to seep back into his conscious thoughts.

As luck would have it you do manage to find a small flask of rum, unfortunately it contains only a small tease of a swig, leaving you thirsty and only craving more.

Lothrin coughs, "So now that you have weapons, may i be released, or at least get a shirt to protect from the cold?" for being at sea can be quite chilly, and Lothrin doesnt like being tied up

You are bound with rope? Must have missed that.

Arryn, who had been armed prior to finding the weapons, looked down towards Lothrin's bindings. He took his dagger and cut the man free. "You won't be any good to us if you can't use your hands. Try anything untoward and you'll regret it." he said. Arryn continued his search heading back to the deck when the lower levels had been searched.

I assume there is nothing left to search below decks. Head to the main deck and do a quick survey before looking for a way off the boat?

OOC: I think there may be some slight confusion.  I don't recall his hands being bound either.  I believe he was simply trying to say that he would prefer if you didn't tie him up, but no matter, onward and sallyforth.

As you ascend the staircase to the deck you are again greeted by that impenetrable fog that enveloped Arryn and Al'andra first encountered.  The density is so great you cannot even discern which end of the ship is which (thankfully other features easily give this information away).  While no breeze of any significance is detected the air does have a chill to it and you could almost swear you hear the sound of canvas flapping overhead.  The fog, unfortunately, has completely obscured any sign of the sails or toprigging.

Thprine stretches and brrathes in the air, before looking at his companions waiting on their move

Arryn's tongue clucked against his teeth "Look for a boat; we need to get off this ship. At least in a row boat we can guide it with the oars and feel our way through this fog." then he set about looking himself keeping an eye on Lothrin at the same time.

In reply to Arryn Andrer (msg # 82):

It had been several hours since Larzander had seen any sign of the night watch, or heard the bells called for that matter. Quietly the warrior stuck his head in the Captain's quarters to see if his employer was still sleeping.

The large man was puzzled by what he saw. The Captain's bed was empty. He walked in and took a look around the room. The Captain was gone. Larz checked the room for any signs of struggle, and even checked the windows, which he found locked from the inside.

The Captain had vanished without a trace. The only way in or out of the room save the windows which were locked, was directly past Larzander. Larz took his job as the Captain's personal bodyguard very seriously. He had stood guard, awake and alert. There was no way anyone could have got past without him knowing.

Hearing the sounds of feet on the deck above him the warrior went to investigate. As he went he yelled out, "Night watch sound off!"

Arryn quirked his head to one side and hushed those nearby. He thought he had heard something. His hands went to the two handed blade over his shoulder. He waited and listened. A voice cut through the fog; the night watch. Someone was still aboard the ship. Arryn raised his hand to hail the watchman ”Over here. I don’t believe there is any of the night’s watch left. I'm surprised, even, to see you.” he shouted into the fog.

In reply to Arryn Andrer (msg # 84):

After a while a rather imposing figure stepped out of the fog. It wasn’t his height that caught one’s attention but his thickness. His shoulders were very broad, and his chest and arms heavily muscled. He had a short sword in each hand, the hilt of a large two-handed great sword stuck up over his left shoulder. As he moved forward, he had the look of someone who would not shrink from a fight.

“Where is the night watch Sargent?” he asked stopping close enough to be within striking distance if it came to that. “Who are you two? Have you seen any more of the crew?” he asked, not waiting for an answer to his first question.

OOC: At this point, there is technically 4 people in front of you.  Arryn, Lothrin, Onyx (the strange looking elf), and Al'andra...although I'm only NPCing her until either someone takes her or she dies a horrible, tragic, violent death :D :D

Arryn eyed the newcomer glancing down at his hand as he did. He stepped forward closer to the armed warrior "I'm Arryn. I was hired on just before launch; extra security seeing how we were carrying prisoners. The only one left seems to be this one." Arryn pointed to Lothrin "He lied about being a 'secret guard.' I suppose in situations such as this that we can't turn down an extra pair of eyes. We searched below deck there isn't another soul down there. No idea where this watch Sargent would be. Or where we're headed." Arryn glanced around before turning back to the watchmen "You have a name?" he asked.

In reply to Arryn Andrer (msg # 87):

"I am Larzander Gunderzen." he said looking at the faces he saw. "I am, or was the Captain's personal bodyguard." he added. "The Captain is gone too. Vanished, the only way out of his quarters was the door where I stood watch and the windows that were still secured from inside the cabin."

Onyx watched the two men speak as he tried to make sense of the situation.  There were no tales of lost crews that he knew of...at least none involving mists.  "So, with little information and very little in the way of a crew...do you believe we should abandon the ship or do you feel we can keep this one going long enough to find land?"  His metallic arm wouldn't cause him too much trouble in water but that might not be so obvious to the others.

In reply to Onyx (msg # 89):

"I was hired to protect the Captain. I no nothing of sailing a ship."Larz remarked. The warrior shook his head as he tried to see through the thick fog."We are probably better off aboard the ship until the fog wears off. If we got in a smaller boat where would we go? And how would we find our way?"

"Well yeah i lied, you wouldve too if some men came down and questioned you"

Arryn eyed Lothrin but didn't say anything. At this point it didn't matter that he was a criminal, or a liar, at this point they needed each other incarceration would have to wait. "It will be far easier to spot hazards and avoid reefs in a smaller boat than this one. Also none of us has the ability to steer this thing; what happens if we are going further out to sea? Seems we are better off in a vessel we can control than one we can't." Arryn then moved to the ships rail to look overboard hoping to gauge the speed of the ship if it was moving at all.

The ship certainly feels as if it's moving but seeing where the ship and water connect is a different story.

Lothrin heads towards the dingy, and prepares to launch it

In reply to Lothrin (msg # 94):

Alas, there is no such boat to be found hanging off the side.

Onyx looks for the main mast and rigging and climbs to the top to see if the fog is only to a certain height.

In reply to Onyx (msg # 96):

OOC: Let me just get a quick dex check on that. Might take a few to get there due to the decreased visibility.

Roll: 20 - eek.  If it helps I have Blind-fighting :)

In reply to Onyx (msg # 98):
"Have you ever piloted a small craft in the open ocean?"Larz asked.
"I think for now we'd be better off staying here on the ship."

"If youre worried about running aground, we could always drop anchor and wait for the fog to clear before deciding what else to do."the warrior added.

"I like Larzanders suggestion, lets eat and rest untill the fog clears, then we can drift towards whatever waits for us"

eek nothing...a 20 is a good thing...a really really good thing.

The strange looking else grabs the mainmast and, with the grace and speed of a spider monkey, ascends upwards until he vanishes from sight...which is only about 10 feet.

Onyx heads to the top hoping for the best...

Unfortunately, as somewhat expected, having reached the top you find the view no better.

In reply to The Powers That Be (msg # 103):

"Have you guys checked all of the areas below deck?" Larz asked. "I only looked briefly as I was heading out to see who was up here walking on deck. Maybe some more of the crew are still down there sleeping."

Arryn looked disheartened "There isn't anyone down there. Seems there is nothing left to do but wait for the inevitable. Either we go down with the ship or we manage to clear this fog and hope someone sees our ship." he said apparently resigned to their fate now that no boat was available.

In reply to Arryn Andrer (msg # 105):

"Cheer up friend. Were still alive now." Larz said with a smile. "I plan on staying that way as long as possible."

"I didn't do much but check the Captians quarters and see that he was gone." he stated "Perhaps until the fog lifts we can search for clues down below?"

"Besides, i'm pretty sure the Captain has a stash of rum in his room. Perhaps a swig or two would set your nerves at ease." he added with a chuckle.

"Count me in for the booze, might make time go by faster"

"The lower decks have been searched. We haven't ventured into the captains quarters yet. I doubt anyone will mind." he said as he turned to head in that direction.

Onyx returns to join the others, "So there is no height to see above the fog"  Onyx then proceeds to search the whole ship for anything useful or any information, with or without help from the others.

In reply to Onyx (msg # 109):

"Okay then, I will lead the group to the Captain's quarters. Perhaps we'll find something useful there." The warrior said as he took the lead back below deck.

The Captains' Quarters are as lavish and extravagant as you might expect despite the fact that this is nothing more than a shipping barge.  Finely upholstered furniture lays about the room as well as several hand carved tables and a large oaken desk.  Towards the far end, nearest to the stained glass windows, is the captains' bed, a mammoth piece of luxury that clearly outweighed its usefulness.  Next to the doorway (that you entered) lie several leather bags and a few chart cases.

"So uh, Arryn, got any  family?"

Arryn leaned down and rifled through the leather cases. He looked up at Lothrin when he asked his question "Why do you care?" he asked wondering just what the criminal was playing at.

In reply to Arryn Andrer (msg # 113):

Larzander went to look through the things at the desk. Hopefully he would find something useful there.

Lothrin leaned against the crate next to Arryn, "I dont really, just trying to make conversation.."

In reply to Lothrin (msg # 115):

Larz looked up from the papers he was studying on the desk. "Well if this fog ever clears, the navigation charts and maps are right here on the Captain's desk." the bodyguard commented. "Not much else useful here though."

Arryn stood up "Random possessions in here. Maybe they belonged to the prisoners." he said. "Looks like there isn't a single clue to where the crew went or what has caused this fog. I guess all we do now is await our fate."

In reply to Arryn Andrer (msg # 117):

"Unfortunately I'm afraid you're right friend." Larz replied. "I'm not one that takes to waiting around easily." he added.

"I can't understand how the crew got off the ship." he went on. "Especially the Captain. I was standing guard on the only exit."

OOC: If Arryn shows the contents of the bags to either Lothrin or Onyx they will recognize their possessions in amongst the stuff.

Onyx entered to examine the belongings and recognized his equipment straight away.  He collected an elven longsword, elven chainmail, backpack, & clothing.  Without a care he changed into his equipment and rejoined the others.

Lothrin walked in and felt relieved his stuff was here and not sold among the guards, he changed into his light armor and grabbed his Rapier, before giving it a test swing and sheathing it, before walking out with a dagger up his sleeve.

Having searched the ship from stem to stern you indeed have found no other individuals onboard, alive or dead.  The ship itself, its contents, seemed to be left in the most natural of manor.  Nothing is out of place or shows signs of a struggle or sudden abandonment.  Plates of half eaten food and cups still filled are found throughout.  With no visible means of guidence or method of escape (other than simply jumping in and swimming for who knows where) you decide to settle in and get some rest.  With plenty of food and drink onboard, it doesn't take you long before becoming quite heavy and tired.  With that, you settle in for some sleep.

I'm assuming you'd make use of the captains' quarters as they are by far the most comfortable.  Is anyone standing a watch of any type to guard or keep an eye out for any changes?

Onyx will stand watch as he doesn't need as much sleep as the others.

In reply to Onyx (msg # 123):

OOC: Alright...if I may please have a saving throw vs. spells Onyx...

12:03, Today: Onyx rolled 20 using 1d20.

Damn!

As the others settle in for the evening you find the night air is actually rather nice, in spite of the creepiness of everything.  You can feel the ship gently rocking along...it is definitely moving, but where?  You gaze upwards to once again attempt to see a hint of the nights sky or even the sails.  That's when you notice something very strange and discomforting.  Several small winged creatures of some type just flew overhead past the steerage of the ship.  Did they land or head towards the rear?  Were they birds?  That might indicate being close to land.  But you couldn't quite make them out to be certain.  It was almost as if they weren't really there but were outlined by the pervasive fog.

OOC: head towards where the winged creatures were flying to investigate.  Cast Invisibility if I feel like they landed or hear anything as I head there.

As you slowly creep up the stairs your gaze levels across the steerage deck.  While the fog certainly does not help, you're pretty certain there is no sign of the winged creatures.

Lothrin, bored out of his wits and not needing sleep, gets up and decides to join Onyx on his watch. Striding towards the deck, he realizes his friend his not where he last was, so Lothrin calls out to him "Hey! Onyx where ya at bud?"

OOC: sorry miss read the last posts.

Not seeing anything of the creatures, Onyx returns to his post. Seeing others, he remarks "Saw some weird flying creatures pass overhead but no sign or sound of them."

In reply to Onyx (msg # 130):

OOC: It's all good, just got nervous you disappeared.  Been having a lot of issues with games lately...people vanishing, GMs suddenly cancelling...all types of hooey.

As Onyx and Lothrin step back into the cabin they notice one of the back windows is open.  Standing just under the window, upon a small dresser, stand three black, leathery-looking creatures.  Their collective attention seems to be upon your two sleeping shipmates.  For the time being, it would seem that they have not noticed your entry.

I cast stealth?

Onyx casts magic missile (golden spheres appear in the air and streak silently towards the farthest creature) and draws his sword, even though he doesn't believe it will do him any good.  Clearly these creatures are unnatural and he would likely need something specific to harm them.  Onyx speaks in old elvish, "Are you the weaklings who have taken the crew?  Where is your master!"

Magic Missile - all targeting the one farthest away...

Lothrin sneaks around and attempts to take one creature hostage with his dagger

The golden orbs shot forth by Onyx tear into one of the creatures.  It's leathery wings get torn and shredded as an orb explodes into each wing.  The third strikes the creature square in the chest, sending him flying into the glass window (surprisingly it does not break) and crashing down onto the floor.  It's still breathing but it's not looking very well.  The remaining two, hissing wildly take flight, heading straight towards Onyx.

Just before Onyx released his assault, Lothrin dives to the side attempting to use the shadows for concealment.  Whether or not he was seen remains uncertain as they seem to be focusing their anger upon Onyx.

The noise wakes anyone still attempting sleep.

In reply to The Powers That Be (msg # 136):

Larz came awake with a start, within a second after his eyes opened he was standing with sword in hand. "What in the hells is that?" he asked as he moved to try and cut off the creatures advance.

09:53, Today: Larzander Gunderzen rolled 16 using 1d20+2.  attack nearest creature.
09:54, Today: Larzander Gunderzen rolled 5 using 1d10+3.  Damage.

This message was last edited by the player at 14:55, Mon 22 Aug 2016.

The noise wakes Arryn but he doesn’t open his eyes instead his hand creeps towards the hilt of the blade lying next to him. Once he has it in hand he opens his eyes a fraction and surveys the scene before him. His eyes go wide when he sees the small black winged creatures and his hand clenches on the swords hilt. He tries his best to stand quietly and attack the creature from surprise as it bore down on Onyx.

11:21, Today: Arryn Andrer rolled 55 using 1d100.  Move Silently. Success.

11:23, Today: Arryn Andrer rolled 15 using 1d20+2.  Attack . Hit AC 1

11:23, Today: Arryn Andrer rolled 9 using 1d10+3.  Damage. X3 if backstab works.

OOC: Just so you know, Onyx and Lothrin, it is technically a new round and you are free to take your actions.  Sorry if that wasn't clear.

I try and capture one of the creatures, un-spotted of course

Onyx lashed out with his elven longs word towards the first of the two attacking as he prepared to defend against their strikes.

OOC: hit AC -5 for 11 dmg

While it would seem that the little demons are focused on just Onyx, they are in fact rather aware of the rest of the party.

As Lothrin lunges forward towards the creature, it flies upwards suddenly, his finger tips almost brushing against it as it whirls overhead and darts toward him.  As it decends upon him the creature barrel rolls off to the right, turning sharp enough to avoid the blade from Larzander. It quickly returns to the ceiling to better assess the situation.

Arryn swings toward the second but, much like the previous, it is keenly aware of his presence. It twirls around to the side in what appeared like a small dance, complete with a mocking, sardonic smile it flashes at him.  That hubris, however, has cost it dearly as Onyx brings the full weight of his sword down upon the wretch, nearly cleaving it in two as its lifeless body crashes to the floor with a sickening almost wet sounding thud.

In reply to The Powers That Be (msg # 142):

The large warrior once again swung his sword at one of the creatures. But the confining space of being below deck limited his ability to swing the blade effectively. Once again his blade found nothing but air.


09:22, Today: Larzander Gunderzen rolled 11 using 1d20+2.  attack nearest creature.

Lothrin slashes with his rapier

15:02, Today: Lothrin rolled 18 using 1d20 ((18))

Observing the chaos below, the winged demon decides he has had enough.  Attaching itself to a beam, it twists around and launches itself towards the back of the cabin.  With a crash several pains of glass shatter as the creature takes flight and disappears.

The injured one is left to fend for itself.  Its' wings in tatters it has no hope of either flight or escape.  It hisses violently as it attempts to back up into a corner.  It eyes the party with black, glinting eyes.  It looks upwards toward the broken window and makes a feeble attempt to scale up to it.  However, it only makes it a few inches as it apparently broke one its arms and crashes back into the floor.

The creature is easily dispatched...

In reply to The Powers That Be (msg # 145):

"Again I say, what in the hell are those things?" Larz asked, hoping someone would know something. "How did they get in here? The windows were locked and we had a guard posted." he added.

Arryn leaned down and looked at the pieces of the winged creature. He had no idea what it was. "At least we must be near land." he said before settling back into a bunk. He stared out the broken window into the mists.

Onyx spat.  "It's an Imp.  Foul creatures who work for foul wizards or worse."

OOC: Am I correct in assuming you're all going to settle in, more or less, with a guard, and wait to see where you end up?

Hmmm...well I'll just take that as a yes.  I should have something up in a few to get things moving along.  Stoney...you still hangin' in there?
This message was last edited by the GM at 03:40, Mon 29 Aug 2016.

I think that would be best. Besides conversing all we have left is waiting either on arrival or more things to fight off.

In reply to The Powers That Be (msg # 150):

*hicup
I ams here stills
*hicup

In reply to Arryn Andrer (msg # 151):

That's fine just needed to know.  Got held up a little last night so I'll definitely get the next section up and running sometime this evening.  Stoney, I'll hit you with a drop in story line a bit later as well and then you can start jumping in.

In reply to The Powers That Be (msg # 153):

Unless I'm missing something we don't have much of a choice but to wait and see what's going to happen.

Again that's fine, just needed to make sure.  Some players really like to RP things out or go into great detail while searching.  It's all good...I'll get this train out the station.

In reply to The Powers That Be (msg # 155):

I thought we were on a boat...:-)

Train on the water, boat on the tracks...