Fantasy Are you tired of sipping Crab Coladas? (Pirate RP) (Always Open)

Kylesar1 · Sep 28, 2021

So Fergie accompanied Bogrum around the rich port-city of Andouphe. Together, the duo took in the sights and Bogrum bought some gear, some excellent gear for himself. A refurbished and cleaned Scorchclaw-engraved axe, some refurbished iron armor, enough to cover his most vulnerable (and vital) parts but not enough to overencumber him and lower his already relatively sluggish speed and agility. Some spiked greaves and knee pads to reinforce his unarmed strikes with lethal force.

For Fergie, with her paltry money, only managed to get a low-quality weapon (your choice). The rest.......Bogrum opted to cover for Fergie to repay. By opted for, it meant forced her to take. Gear stolen from low-skilled enemy pirates were crap. Such money to repay him was expected to come from money gained from raids or to be repaid when she got her hands on a new vase and reversed Thief's Lament. As always though, Fergie went cheap, getting some used leather gear reinforced with iron at the beginning stages of rusting. She had enough debt to cover. Plus, she could rest assured that pirates in the sky were about as well to-do as the Basenjis were so she could expect plenty of money and loot. If they were lucky, they could upgrade their gear further without having to come back to Andouphe

The entire time, since Fergie stuck closely to Bogrum, no one was ballsy enough to try anything funny, especially after Bogrum caved in the chest of a thief who tried to steal the orc's gold. After that, people steered clear and the duo were left unbothered

Everyone else spent their night in a different way. (These spoilers are completely optional reads)

Elaina

During her time off, Elaina was burdened with far too many suiters for her liking. Aristocrats and shiny-armored, undented knights (the difference between warrior knights and aristocrat knights) trying to woo her with filthy riches didn't work. SHE was rich. SHE came from an aristocrat family. The only thing that could woo her were dominance and knowledge. Librarians, Grand Mages, some Owl Folk man living in an ancient library buried in the desert, a 1,000 year old Kitsune or spirit of an ancient tree.......a knight who braved the battlefield, a leader of crews. With the presence of a child, people left her alone as the child made her seem taken. This new freedom allowed her to explore unhindered. Since she knew this city quite well, she knew of the black market around here, which allowed her to net a collection of rare books on magic and Pisceans, as well as Familiars. While her and Orabelle went together, another relic appeared to Ora, turning her into a human form, fascinating Elaina to no end

At night, she met up with Sebas and Avery at the premier tavern and the quartet ate and drank together and went to the same hotel to get two 2-bed suites. Elaina and Ora in one, Sebas and Avery in the other. There in the hotel room, Elaina discovered the properties of Ora's relic, which made her almost completely human-like.......until it was time to get in the bath, where Ora's body turned back into her own as she got into the water. It was then she knew that Sebas communed with Baroness and got Ora this relic to blend in perfectly. Elaina spent until midnight reading and studying, and playing with Orabelle until they both went to sleep, Ora's new relic allowing her to be outside the water tank and live as a complete human without restriction, allowing her the FULL experience of sleeping in an actual bed instead of sleeping in an albeit comforting tank because of her tank's holy water.

Kersact

The master thief and his crew ran around the city thieving everyone and everything, and bringing it back to a long-established hideout. The loot acquired were immense around the richer parts of the city. From kids to elders, from unsecured to heavily armed and secure stores, the group of thieves were uncaught, disappearing like ghosts after making off with highly valuable merchandise. Armor, weapons, bombs, food. Paying for stuff simply didn't happen while they were land-bound. Nearing midnight, he and his crew had a stolen-food feast and then Kersact set off to the ship to relieve Edina of her post

Edina

After being relieved of her post guarding the vault, Edina and her night thieves first went to eat at the tavern before it closed up completely, getting some premier good food on Edina's dime. After then, they kept up what Kersact and the day crew had begun, beginning with that tavern and taking back the money they spent and MUCH MUCH more. They stole anything and everything, amassing more than triple what Kersact's group did, due to the fact that they had the advantage of night both getting them access to closed shops and exposed individuals at night, as well as a the dearth of night-combat-capable guards. With Edina's strong support magic, they moved quickly, effectively, quietly, and disappeared like a housefly in front of anything black. The Master Thief's Assistant was his assistant for a reason.

No need to even get a room. They stalked the shadows until the crack of dawn. Only Basenjis were allowed safe passage without getting thiefed, something that could only be proven by a certain seal. Hopefully the potential victim didn't forget

Sebas and Avery

Sebas and Avery spent the entire day as bros. They first went from shop to shop and Sebas picked out which weapon upgrade and relic he wanted Avery to buy. Sebas didn't make it easy on Avery's wallet, but he didn't go about making Avery pay as much as he could possibly make the catboy pay. He picked out what he genuinely wanted
Monsoon Tome- A rare book of water spells. Increases the potency of water spells cast by the user
Water Catalyzer- A weapon upgrade of dwarven technology that allows the weapon to operate underwater without restriction

After that, they duo went about the town as normal. Clothing stores, weapon shops, jewelry stores, etc. They explored the city of Andouphe and all its riches. Sebas upgraded Avery's weapon, and after trying outfit after outfit, bought him new clothes and even got his combat equipment engraved with the Basenji seal. They also tried out Andouphe's delicacies. Caviar, Ice Cream, Cakes, Exotic fruit like Dragonfruit, Passionfruit, and Flame Berries, expertly prepared seafood like pufferfish, Anglerfish, Viperfish, and Magic fish like Blestil, Glodres, and Kryskesh. They spent a TON of money. When you sail the seas and raided like they do, you MADE tons of money. With nothing else to do with that amount of money, they may as well spend it

It had been quite a while since Sebas spent this kind of time for actual fun. Something about the impending mission made him want to do some non-pirate stuff. Take the load off, do some recreational stuff. Maybe it was to take his mind off what will probably be some incredible mind strain starting early tomorrow morning. Avery was just happy to spend time with his best friend around the city, though he couldn't help but feel self-conscious about the looks they were getting due to their attire, which netted them pretty horrified looks by some of the snooty types. While Sebas was too gruff to give a damn about people who would never tell him to his face what they thought of him, Avery was more uncomfortable. Nevertheless, they continued on, with Avery being spurred on by Sebas's encouragement, especially after Sebas got Avery new clothes and helped him put it on. The most high class clothes Avery had worn up to that point was the Basenji garb he wore on a day-to-day. Before then was generic pirate cloth and before then were tattered rags.

That evening, they drank with Elaina, who had Orabelle with her (who obviously didn't drank, but ate some fish). Goldi showed up at some point and became the life of the party. It was a very nice time in a very nice tavern. The comrades then retired into a premier hotel room. Massive suite with 2 king-sized beds. "If you try something funny, I'm kicking you to the other side, Avery."
"No worries. I don't want to ruin what's been an amazing day. So great, it's almost unnerving when you consider the next mission."
They entered the room, drunk and full, tired from a full day of exploring, feet hurting but feeling fulfilled, ready for the next day

Basenji Leadership

Adonis, Fatimah, and Bermon were a bit more at home than the rest of the crew among the socialites........well, except Bermon. Fatimah used to be an amazing fortune teller, Adonis was about as aristocratic as it got besides being a pirate captain. Bermon hated them so he kept to the back. They split pretty early on as they decided to deal with logistics first, getting low-level crew to get everything they needed. Then they all spent the night differently. With Evangeline assigned to guard the ship, a venture that she was more than happy to take as plenty of pirates looked to steal from unguarded ships and staying on the ship limited her exposure to the lowly mortals, they had no worries though Adonis still kept Kersact and Edina guarding the vault.

Bermon spent the evening laying women left and right, a booty warrior, a dress-dropper. Twas mating season and Bermon was feeling the heat. Taking socialite women of all kinds and getting them in bed pretty quickly after meeting them. It was immensely easy for Bermon to put on whatever act was needed. He already had the physical appeal. Tall, tanned, handsome, rich, built. A little shave and a with the ability to go differing levels of transformation between human and wolf allowing him to shape his face/head/body hair and muscles as he pleased, he could be a heartthrob to any of these socialite women. He was getting mating season in, avoiding those that smelled of sickness and prioritizing those who were particularly frustrated and unfulfilled in their bedroom, which were many

Fatimah spent her time among the more spiritual types, speaking all things magic and spirit. Her attire got her a small crowd and all she needed to do was speak as if she knew all the secrets of the universe. In Andouphe, she visited some of the bookstore and apothecaries to grab some rarities and sell off some of her own unneeded things. This got her through the evening pretty easily. She sipped on fine wine and talked in the cafe with a small circle of people she fascinated, seeming like they wanted to become her disciples or something. In the later hours, after everything was closed, she moved over to a church in the dark of night and communed with her god then returned to her hotel room around like 2am. She was in a holy trance

Adonis was completely at home amongst the socialites, talking like he'd been in this lifestyle his whole life and the only difference is that he ran a pirate crew, a fact he kept hidden along with his Basenji seals and crests. Adonis, like Fatimah, sipped on fine wine, but he talked a lot of the pretentious aristocratic stuff most in the Basenjis came to hate. His shops of choice were that of the Black Market, even running into Elaina and some child she had in tow. While Elaina wanted taboo books, Adonis was looking for black magic stuff that was illegal to have and distribute as well exotic stolen spirits and cursed equipment. He also ran into Kersact's crew multiple times, who were making absolute fortunes by stealing stuff and selling some of it to the black market, probably to bolster the loot Kersact had and get him to a million pieces of loot. Coins were the quickest way. At night, Adonis retired to THE premier aristocrat hotel of Andouphe with two ladies of the night in tow, solicited with his almost bottomless wallet and ready to give him the night of a benevolent king.

"Only One Breed of Dog can Fly. We are of that Breed"

The Next Morning

Sebas Deadeye
Hotel

It was time. Sebas woke up with Avery right beside him, a bit dazed from the alcohol the night before. He looked up at the ceiling, vision having a bit of trouble focusing. Things weren't spinning, but they were moving a bit slower than usual. His luxurious hotel room signaled some recognition of the events from the night before and Sebas was glad he didn't drink to the point of blackout or forgetfulness last night as it would seriously affect his ability to deal with the logistics of getting things loaded. He stood up and drank ice cold holy water from his canteen, something he was becoming spoiled by. The Everquench allowed him to literally drank Holy Water without limit. He grabbed his stuff and shook himself to a clearer mind.

A yawn came from across the room which morphed into a "Good morning, Sebas." It was Avery in his black sword-decorated pajamas, rubbing the sleep out of his eyes. Pajamas weren't Sebas's thing, opting to keep to his underwear. Nothing like carrying extra clothes for the SOLE PURPOSE of sleeping in. Pointless. Then again, Sebas had his own room on the ship while Avery slept in a shared bay. Better than those who had no shame and slept in the buff in the shared bay like a freaking weirdo.
"Morning," Sebas responded gruffly, his voice quite a bit deeper due to his own sleepiness. "Hope you're ready to begin the mission."
"After last night, I feel like I could conquer the world........after I wake up anyway," Avery said with a laugh.
"Relatable," Sebas said with a chuckle of his own. "Didn't drink too much last night, did you?"
"I tried to outdrink you and failed." The failure showed with how sloppily Avery moved
"Yeah you certainly acted drunk last night." Given how Avery was swapping back and forth between cat and human form, and got touchy-feely to Sebas, Avery certainly drank to blackout last night.
"We didn't do anything crazy last night, did we?"
"Nothing too out of the ordinary." That was a lie. Something did happen last night, something Sebas wouldn't relay back to Avery, lest Avery curl up into a ball desiring death from embarassment.

He helped Avery to his feet and gave him a Sobriety Potion. They both bought one as they knew they'd be drinking hard. As they drank, they felt the buzz drain from their system, but not without an almost gag-inducing tar-textured taste. They were awful and extremely expensive for a reason. It had to cleanse the system and they HAD to be to prevent people from abusing them in alcoholism. They were cursed potions to where only 1 could be consumed every 72 hours lest they overdose. The potion was chased down with Everquench Holy Water.

The men met Elaina and Ora in the hallway. Ora looked absolutely beautiful as a human child and Elaina certainly knew how to dress her. A blue-green loose dress with brown barefoot shoes, possibly because Ora hated actual shoes, being barefoot her whole life. She was wearing her relics. Trace Relic around her neck and Landwalker Talisman upgraded being worn as a shimmering gold bracelet around her foot. "You should be able to blend in more easily Ora," Sebas remarked and handed her a present. The Monsoon Tome, which set her eyes sparkling. "It took some pain getting Baroness's request done, but you don't have to get anymore weird looks, and this tome helps you cast water and ice magic."

With that, the quartet set off to a tavern for breakfast. "Elaina, get in contact with Fergie, Bogrum is probably with her, and tell them where we're headed. Bronze Fish."
"I'll send a note."

For Fergie, when she awoke, wherever she chose to sleep, she would find her Illusion Relic laying on a side table near her bed. With it put on, she could look in the mirror and know her worries could be somewhat lifted. SOMEWHAT as she knew she was still being hunted. Something smacked against her door and when she opened, she would find a note.

Fergie

We're at Bronze Fish for breakfast. Come by or don't. Just make sure to be at the Airship Dock by noon so we can set off

Sebas

WayfaringWaaksian

WayfaringWaaksian · Sep 29, 2021

While most of the Basenjis had a fanciful night full of pleasures to make up for the long, hard months at sea, Fergie and Bogrum's time in town was comparatively unremarkable. They came, they saw, they got what they needed, and it was back to the ship for them. Bogrum had little interest romping about as his fellows did. The hustle and bustle of Andouphe was rather much for him; the longer he spent wading through crowds in the markets, the more he longed for the quiet and solitude that would be his treat for running those mundane errands.

"Makes me long for the port town I first started sailing out of," Bogrum had reminisced as they took a longboat back to the ship. Relief to be heading back rested thickly between the two as they sat on adjacent sides. "Quaint. Quiet. The kind of place where you know everyone. Sort of forget how deeply family history is set in those old stilts, until you spend time in a place like that." He motioned with his head at the rows of buildings shrinking behind them, glowing in lantern light as the sun's grew dimmer. "So impersonal. But with that many people, how can you get to know anyone?"
Fergie didn't look up at him, gaze focused on the shortsword her bandaged hand was tracing over. Its dull and dented blade glinted with a hope to cut down its future foes with vigor, despite the sad state the world had left it in. "I just miss walkin' on two legs."

Fergie had been just as restless to return to the ship, complaining of the bandages that were readily ripped off once she was cleared from the sight of outsiders. Though her face was no longer covered, it was like a shadow was still obscuring her features. Maybe that was just from the hat, which she had made a beeline for once they were on board, but her silence suggested something deeper. Bogrum's attempts at cracking her shell were deflected with many thanks on her part for his assistance and good-will that day. They parted ways after she had retrieved her belongings from his room, and they both turned in for the night, resting up in preparation for the long day ahead.

---

Despite her many recent misfortunes, Fergie had a luck that most of the crew were lacking that morning, and that was of a full night's sleep. Habit woke her rather than the bell that wouldn't come, and she rose along with the sun at the crack of dawn. Only a minute was spent stretching and rubbing the sleep out of her eyes before she remembered what she had been waiting for. Eager hands pounced for the relic that had manifested on the table, equal parts excited and concerned. A standard leather belt, one without a wrinkle set in, its appearance brand new. Fergie allowed herself a sigh of relief; she'd been worried that the Baroness was going to make it some funky pattern or something as a prank. She had only specified what her own appearance was to be, not the relic's.
Putting on the belt and looking in the mirror, she was met with a stranger. And a stranger that she couldn't have picked out from a crowd if she tried, at that. The figure had no remarkable features to speak of, a forgettable face that would be indiscernible from the others it swam with, like fish in a school. It was... uncanny. Fergie had to turn away, pretend that the figure wasn't following her motions as she gathered her crutches and headed out.

When greeted with the note, Fergie squinted and grimaced at it for a few moments before it clicked. "Huh. So that's how ye spell 'is name." It was early enough, she supposed, if she wanted to head over and join them. There would be time to return the crutches to Dr. Layla so long as she didn't linger.
Logistics in her mind were drowned out by a sense buzzing in her mind. Bogrum was approaching, but she didn't know because of his thudding footsteps, or from some inset dread. He was carrying a piece of her lichen in his pocket, the same piece that has been her nose originally. They found it laying on the deck after meeting with Edina, and his reaction had been priceless.
"Is that... yours?" he had asked, muted horror raising his voice an octave from his usual bass.
It had been a feat to rival the strongest of wills to not burst into laughter right then. "Aye. Was. Now it's yers."
He needed no further instructions to pocket it, so she never had to explain it. Her intention then was ensure there was some way of locating him in case the two had gotten separated in town.

Her intention now was to get the fuck away from him. But that was a task made challenging with her crutches and their damnable creaking.
"Fergie? You up already?" He had rounded the corner much, much faster than she could reach the other end of the corridor, instantly making her escape bust.
"Eh- aye." The way she hunched her back and glared from the side of her eye like a disgruntled cat told a different story than her words. "Just makin' the rounds, keepin' meself busy. What of it?"
"Were you trying to get away from me just now?"
"No!"
Bogrum didn't fight with her. No need to, when it was clear who had already won. "Alright, where are you headed?"
Making a defeated noise, she passed the note over to him once he had caught up to her. He gave it a look-over before saying, "Let's go, then."
"What, that easy? No scoldin'? No lecture on the dangers of runnin' 'round on a bum foot, no assistance?"
"No. Too early. Get me some breakfast first, then I'll rant your ear off."

It was very casual. He made no note of the belt she was wearing, let alone the new magical aura around her. A good sign that the relic was doing its job, in that allies and others could see her true self, with no indication that certain individuals would be seeing a different person entirely. When she and Bogrum stepped inside the Bronze Fish later, Sebas and the others would see the same Fergie they've always known. Plus the crutches, a new belt, and an awkwardness that had seemed to waft around her ever since that incident with Evangeline.

Kylesar1

Kylesar1 · Sep 29, 2021

Sebas Deadeye
The Bronze Fish

When Fergie and Bogrum walked in, the crew were all cheery and eating their respective breakfasts. Sebas with toast, a pile of bacon, and fried eggs and a large mug of orange juice. Orabelle with a whole fish of now indeterminate species given how eaten it was. Avery with some grilled chicken breast and a big cup of milk. Goldi eating similarly to Sebas. Elaina similarly to Avery but with the addition of a LOT more chicken breast, a large bowl of fruit and a cup of coffee instead of milk. Magic use burned calories like hell. As Fergie and Bogrum entered, there were 3 more seats open, as they sat at a table for 8. Clearly Sebas intended for them to show up. Otherwise they would've sat at a table for 6 instead of a round table for 8. The impending captain took note of Ferg's belt, knowing what it was doing (though he couldn't see the effects) since he was there when she requested Baroness for it. It was the only thing that looked different about Fergie besides the crutches.

Elaina

Elaina also took note of the belt. With massively strong perception and sensory magic, it took a bit of deciphering, but Elaina soon knew what that belt was. An Illusion Relic, she thought. The magic inbued in the relic was so suppressed, it took incredibly highly toned magic sense to see the magic within, sense not even Evangeline or Adonis had. Sense only her and Fatimah had in terms of crew of the Basenjis. The suppression was so complex that the moment it left her eyes, she could no longer sense the magic within it until she looked at it again

Pulling her cup of coffee to her face, Elaina subtlely cast a perception spell and when she put the cup back down, she could see the illusion Fergie. The image was nothing special, which made her wonder why Fergie chose it. Ora got more looks than Fergie, though it was mostly because this otherwise completely human-looking child was eating a bass completely whole and uncooked, eating the bones and entrails and all.

Hiding in plain sight, Elaina thought as she broke sight with the belt and ended the spell. The magic within is master-tier levels of complex. She wouldn't question why Fergie did it. Most likely being hunted and most likely none of her business.

Everyone else's eyes were drawn to the crutches. "Mornin' Fergie," Goldi said cheerfully, "Nice crutches. Gonna crack a few skulls with 'em?"
"Highly doubt she will be on the frontlines if she is on crutches," Avery remarked as he sipped his milk, "I'm thinking she'll be coordinating by Sebas's side. Lucky."
"She's under an Ordination," Elaina corrected them both, "Ordination of Healing. She'll be fine by the time we leave."
"Nerd," Goldi teased and then thought a bit, "A bit creepy how you can see that kind of stuff. You're not looking into our rooms at night, are you?"
"Not any of you, but I did back when I was writing fanfictions about my crushes." Elaina said before taking another sip of her coffee, "Plus, I don't HAVE to wait until night. If I want, I can see everything as we sit here." Clearly Elaina used her magic for a bit of fun from time to time
Avery was taken aback, knowing his privacy was granted only by mercy. Sebas could use that magic on him any day, but Elaina? No thanks.

"Have a seat. I lost a bet so I got the tab," Goldi said to the duo, "I expect plenty of raids, you two. I got a few more bodies before I can do my 1st Warrior Ritual and I gotta get back the money I spend here since Sebas wants to eat their whole inventory in bacon."

WayfaringWaaksian

WayfaringWaaksian · Sep 29, 2021

In Andouphe, even seaside snack shacks looked more like upscale restaurants, Fergie had to think. She half expected to be hit with the salty stench of fish she had grown accustomed to in port towns, but instead was invited inside with the aroma of a hearty breakfast. No sinking floorboards, no haphazard nails jutting out from walls stained with ale and what else. The furniture was certainly nicer than the typical rickety seats that would make your ass sore from sitting too long, but was nothing extravagant. It was nice. Just not too nice, and that's what kept her mouth shut about it.

Goldi was treading thin ice, though such a thing hardly brought a Viking to bat an eye. Fergie sent daggers her way, a look softened only by an acceptance of the humor behind that comment. "Aye. Lookin' for a demonstration?" Avery would be getting more heat behind her glare with the way he was talking. It was like her first remark from the captain all those months ago, and it brought about the same rush of indignation.
She unclenched her fists. Swallow it.

"I'm sure you've seen things you wished you could erase the memory of," Bogrum said, sympathetic of both sides even though Avery seemed legitimately horrified by what he had just heard.
"Warnin' you now, don't sneak a peak in any room I'm alone in."
Bogrum chuckled at what was surely just a crass joke. Surely.

He took a seat, beckoning Fergie to do the same. "Save some bacon for the rest of, would you? We've got a long day ahead of us."
"Long mission too." By habit, Fergie ran her nails against the wooden table, feeling its texture. "I'll get ye's yer raids. Buttloads of 'em. Skies be teemin' with loot, we'll get ye enough to buy this whole shack ten times over."
"Has anyone here been skysailing before? First time for me."

Kylesar1

Kylesar1 · Sep 30, 2021

(Re-aligning the dialog. I will probably start doing this with large amounts of dialog to prevent being jumbled)

Sebas Deadeye

Fergie: "Aye. Looking for a demonstration?"

Goldi either ignored Fergie's indignation, she was too oblivious to care, or she was too Viking to be phased by anyone's combative emotions. Regardless, Goldi kept going, feeding off Fergie's offer for a demonstration. "There ya go! Axes in heads. I remember when Doc put me on crutches and told me I couldn't raid. Yeah right. I broke a crutch shattering some dude's skull on the next raid."
"Yeah and you had to take it up with Dr. Laylah after the fact."
"Yeeeahhh about that........." Goldi chuckled and took a moment to chug down some water, "On second thought, don't disobey the doctor's orders. Doc is a scary one when she's pissed. That angel chick's got nothing on doc." With what Ferg and Bogrum saw of Laylah, it would be easy to see why. Disobeying her medical orders simply HAD to be some form of Provocation for her

Bogrum: "I'm sure you've seen things you wished you could erase the memory of,"
Fergie: "Warnin' you now, don't sneak a peak in any room I'm alone in."

"I've seen more trauma than you'd ever know. That's why I don't use it all the time." Elaina muttered to Bogrum. Sebas knew this about Elaina. They HAVE become fairly close since that mission, whereafter Sebas gave Adonis a piece of his mind on her behalf. "Fergie, I respect you. When you CAN see through all the Illusions, you stop WANTING to see through all the illusions. That's why I let you retain yours." A direct admission there. "So long as it remains not my business, it's not my problem."

-------------------------
Questions on Skysailing

They sat down and ordered their food while Fergie reassured the combat-obsessed Goldi that loot would be plentiful. More stacks of bacon came out and Sebas got a look at Bogrum's appetite, which was quite heavy, no different than his and Goldi's. Maybe heavier as the orc man crunched on more bacon than bread, unlike him and Goldi. Typically, Bogrum just ate like Ferg for the most part, though he wasn't all that adverse to buying more meat especially after that merchant ship raid. When given the option though, Bogrum ate like a Scorchclaw through and through. Mighty feasts the night before a large battle and again after (if they came out victorious)

Bogrum: "Has anyone here been skysailing before? First time for me."

"We all have," Sebas responded to Bogrum's question. It sort of reiterated how long they've all been here compared to the relative newcomer in Ferg and the actual newcomer in Bogrum. "This is just the first time I've ever commanded a ship and it just HAS to be skysailing."
"I absolutely ADORE skysailing," Elaina said with a sigh of contentment. "I jump on my Pegasus and the feeling of wind on my face puts me in my element. Plus, scouting is simple fare up there." With open skies, they didn't need to do much to see other stuff. They need only be wary of things if clouds were involved, not only for storms but for things can may use clouds to obscure visions of targets above/below (depending on if they're above or below the clouds. That, and things may be cloaked in the sky.
"Makes me motion sick and fearful in cat form," Avery threw in his two-cents, "Not a fan. In human form, the wind throws off my shot."
"Ah, the adrenaline of combat mixed with the risk of free-falling to your death makes raiding in the sky second to none," Goldi said, crunching on more bacon. "If you want to make a fearless fighter, make them raid in the sky." No safety nets, one screw-up and you're done. "If you want to bring a team together, sky-raid." Anything less than absolute trust can be death. If someone is hanging on, someone else has to risk their own life to save another. If someone goes overboard, it's out of their hands on whether or not they survive. No Dead Man's Isle here.........well, no Isle at least. If a team moves fast enough though, they can save them. "If you don't know whether to believe or not believe, raiding in the sky will give you a solid answer." Either you'll trust in yourself more than you ever will a god, or you'll give yourself to a higher power asap

"Gotta agree there," Sebas confirmed. "The sailing itself isn't that different. It's that things are more advanced in the sky." More advanced magic, more dangerous creatures, storms.......but with it came more and greater loot, and less consistent encounters. Encounters may be less often but they were certainly more dangerous. "Things may be suppressed in the sky as well. Entire floating dungeons, treasure chests, fortresses, compounds, ruins." Suppression meant it was in limbo essentially. It was there and it could be sensed with magic, but it couldn't be touched until it was revealed in full. In that regard, it could be seen as an equivalent to caves or ship-wrecks in that you choose if you want to skip it or not

WayfaringWaaksian

WayfaringWaaksian · Sep 30, 2021

(I could do the same with my posts if they're difficult to follow. Right now I'm just starting each paragraph with a brief summary of what was said, but let me know if it's better if I categorize.)

Goldi's riveting tale of how she wielded a mighty crutch into battle did bring a smile to Fergie's face, quelling some of her anger. She even laughed when the story included Doctor Layla's wrath, adding, "Don't I know it. Threw a fit aft' all the wood shavin's I left in the bed last time." Well, what else was she supposed to do while waiting for Stasis? Whittling to pass the time was better than throwing up on the floor, like she had threatened then. "But ye's don't gotta worry 'bout that. Elaina's right. Be back on me feet once we're launched."

Elaina's words about what she could yet didn't want to see were pointed. She didn't have to say "illusion" specifically. Without context it meant nothing special, but Fergie knew what she was getting at. It felt less like an admittance on Elaina's part, and more like an attempt to call her out. Fergie felt exposed, as well as a bit foolish to think that a master in Magic Sensory wouldn't notice the new aura she hummed with, tensing and seeming ready to retort something. She didn't however, aside from a muttered, "Thanks." Not at Elaina's decision to NOT pry into her business, rather the words before that. Elaina respected her. Fergie wanted to hold onto that over the rest.

--

"I'm hearing a lot of mixed opinions," Bogrum pointed out, crunching into a bite of bacon and finishing it off before continuing, "Sounds like a decent challenge to me. I'm hyped."
"Goldi's sure hypin' it up." Fergie's interaction with bacon was more tentative. She eyed a strip warily and gave it a sniff before chancing a taste. "Hell, now I'm gettin' excited. Wasn't too sure of it at first, but I like the way ye think." She had been looking forward to taking to the skies, but not for fanciful things like defying death and testing the mettle of the combined crew. Though it was an appealing thought, filling her head with epic clashes miles above the water, cannonfire cascading into clouds while daring raiders swung from ship to ship without fear of the deadly drop below. It would make for quite a story once they returned to sea level. And if they didn't... well, it wasn't a terrible way to go out.

Sebas's description was more grounded, but still brought eager anticipation, as any talk of hidden treasure would. But Fergie couldn't deny that it was a little beyond her what to expect. "Bogrum an' I are new to this shit, so any advice 's welcome. May be raid leaders, but we ain't gonna send anyone out to their deaths because we were dumbasses."

Kylesar1

Kylesar1 · Oct 1, 2021

Sebas Deadeye
The Bronze Fish

Hmmmm. Well most advice given could also apply to normal sea raids, so Sebas had to think a bit outside the box. "Use more caution than you think you need," Sebas said, "If it involves jumping to another ship, do so with enough confidence that you WILL make the jump. Usually though, if we're looting it, it shouldn't be that different from any other looting raids." Meaning they had to pull the ship close and make a bridge, either with planks or, more reliably, a bridge of magic in order to get the loot back to the ship without having to jump with it in hand. "If YOU can't jump, don't expect anyone else to jump." Giving orders that you yourself won't/can't follow are hardly worth following. A leader with a habit of giving orders they wouldn't do themselves is not a leader worth respecting

"Stay away from the edge, for the same reason as on sea. Only you won't have the safety net of the water," Avery threw in

"I'm damn good at what I do," Elaina said, finishing her coffee, "If you want accurate information on the enemy, I can scout ahead and tell you what we're dealing with. I can see the enemy through the clouds."

"The wind," Sebas said, "The wind is a powerful force. It can destabilize you." Most ships have a stabilizer. When you leave the bounds of the ship, you are subjected to the effects of the wind. It is like a car window keeping the wind off you. When you let down the window, now the wind has an effect. "The less time you spend between 2 ships, the better. The less amount of times you have to jump, the better."

"Storms are the best time to raid," Goldi said. Storms whipped up the wind to frightening degrees. If you are below the clouds, you're subjected to even more powerful winds as well as rain. "Just don't send Wyverns and riders through storm clouds."
"In fact, don't send ANYTHING through the clouds without Elaina's clearance," Avery added, "Adonis sent some of us through the clouds in a storm and got raiders flash ignited by the lightning." The less time one spent inside a storm cloud, the better.

"Trust the team you send," Sebas said, "We've done this before. Most of us plenty of times. We know how to operate in the clouds. That being said, don't send a team without having another already ready to go." This one was pretty much text book faith. Textbook but incredibly important. "Your team will guide you as you guide them. Have as much vested interest in their safety as they their own, but know that most of us are willing to die for the cause. We just don't want to die unnecessarily."

WayfaringWaaksian

WayfaringWaaksian · Oct 4, 2021

Fergie stared at the table with a scowl, deep concentration etching into her forehead. She tried to visualize what it might be like, this time with a tactical mind rather than one that entertained the theatrics of a storyteller's battle. She imagined the ship passing by clouds that obscured their target, wind whipping around the barrier. Armed mercenaries pointing cannons their way, guarding a merchant ship no doubt heavily laden with loot. But more loot meant more wealth, which meant better hired help. There would be no easy pickings in the sky, or at least that's what she was determined to expect. Everything she knew about battle and sailing would be put to the test.

She hoped that Bogrum was considering the same things, and didn't take all that time coming up with his next zinger. "With winds like that, Fergie should take care she's not swept away by the first gust. Or struck like a lightning rod."
"Tch. I got less surface area, AND yer taller. YOU should take care, wiseass."
"Please. You're all fortunate the ship doesn't buckle underneath me. Winds are nothing." He smirked. "Won't be rid of me that easily."
Fergie scoffed into her cup of water, a gesture to hide a fighting smile. "Adonis must love torturin' me too, pairin' me up with ye."
It wasn't nearly as terrible a fate as she made it out to be. Though she couldn't help but wonder what being partnered with Goldi might have been like, as she would have been directly alongside her had Bogrum decided to part ways. Goldi was a battlemaiden with a genuine love for the throes of combat, and Fergie thought she might like fighting back-to-back with her, cleaving skulls and slitting throats together. Not to say Bogrum's feats were anything short of impressive. His new ax had cut through that thief like butter, and she was sure he was eager to make it shine with more blood.

"Adonis was talking about summoning a cloud dungeon for that relic." Bogrum was thinking about the bigger picture. This Distortion Shifter and the implication that the Basenjis' sails would take them to other seas had been on his mind for some time. "Might be too far in the future to be thinking on it, but I find myself concerned. I don't doubt our Captain's capabilities by any means, but sailing the Spirit Seas has... implications."
"Heh. Moral implications? Or implications of gettin' butt-fucked by whatever demons 'r spirits out there?" Judging by that response, she had her own grievances with the concept. "Assumin' he even finds that Distorter Whatever. If it even exists." And assuming she'd stick around that long, if she rights her wrongs to the crew by that point. Or at least the parts of the crew she cared about.

Kylesar1

Kylesar1 · Oct 5, 2021

Sebas Deadeye
The Bronze Fish

"Hey people," Someone walked in, disrupting what was about to be a nerdy explanation from Elaina that Sebas would've been highly likely to tune out within 10 seconds. Saved by the bell. "Hey Capt. We're about done loading The Canine."
Sebas crossed his arms. "Once I begin inspection, things better not be missing."
"I still need to go find Fergie to discuss some of the weaponry. You know things are a bit different in the sky."

Sebas raised his eyebrow. "Do you not see Fergie? Are you blind?"
The man looked around. "No, did she go take a leak or something? I would've thought she'd be here with Bogrum but apparently not." He looked at Fergie, "Who is this? Is she new?"
That wasn't good. He didn't recognize Fergie in the least.

Goldi leaned forward, "No, you idiot. That's FERGIE" she said savagely, pointing right at the woman in question. "Maybe you took too many punches to the face."
"No it's not," the man retorted, "You've trolled me a lot Goldi. I know the look of every woman on that ship and that ain't her."
"Absolute moron!"

The man should begin to look familiar to Bogrum, though not to Fergie. Bogrum had seen this man PLENTY of times around the ship. They crossed paths with him an uncanny amount of times. For reference, rarely did Sebas and Fergie cross paths after the underwater mission when both of them were busy with their own taskings. If someone were watching how many times this guy crossed paths with Fergie, one could legitimately question how it were possible without some form of effort on one of their parts. Yeah, they slept in close bays, but still..........When Bogrum told this observation to Fergie, Fergie basically shrugged it off. The dude had nothing notable about him, with just as much an ugly mug as quite of few Basenjis did, on top of his lackluster grooming that only went as far as washing his ass and washing his clothes, and even then only because Adonis made it a rule of the ship. His hair? Greasy and disgusting. His face? caked with crap. Hands? Dirt all in the nails. Feet? Crustier than asphalt. Good thing he didn't smell as bad as he looked like he smelled.

Sebas was about to say something, but he was stopped by Elaina. "Clear vision issues," she said "The senses are my specialty." She stood up and confronted the guy. "Here, drink this," Elaina said, holding out her cup "Maybe it'll help you come to your senses."
"This ain't some deafening tonic, is it?"
"Less speak, more drink," Elaina responded, not even answering his concern, "You'd drink it regardless, like the obedient little sheep you are." Elaina had a massive air of condescension that popped up only when speaking to this guy.

The man took the mug and began drinking, validating every word Elaina said about him. When he looked back up, the man looked to Bogrum and saw Fergie. "Oh, Fergie. I guess I really was tripping. You looked weird just then."
Sebas sighed exaggeratingly loudly. "Avery. Goldi. Bogrum. Get your stuff loaded onto The Canine. Bogrum, take Fergie's stuff as well. Leave with the idiot." He had to get them all out of here ASAP. This was urgent

When they cleared out, Elaina spoke again "The weakness of conditional deceptive magic is the inherent contradiction that comes between affected and unaffected," Elaina said, using the situation that JUST happened as proof in itself. If this situation happened enough, Bogrum would get suspicious. And Goldi and Avery. "My experimental manlet is affected. Now what? Do you kill him?" The apathy in Elaina's voice was a bit surprising to Sebas. Elaina was kind for the most part, but Sebas had to remember that Elaina WAS still a pirate afterall. Avery was no different. As lovey and affectionate as Avery was, he wouldn't hesitate to put bullets to heads. The difference is that Elaina seemed to house a conniving air of condescension towards her "experimental manlet" yet nothing but respect to Sebas himself.......or genuine fear if he shot her a murderous look.

(Nothing like inducing a little paranoia to shake a psyche)

WayfaringWaaksian

WayfaringWaaksian · Oct 7, 2021

At the first sign, Sebas was merely questioning, but Fergie was immediately met with a shock of cold dread. The situation didn't need to escalate as it had to make adrenaline rush through her body.
Bad.
She couldn't stop the color from draining her face. She couldn't even send the man disdainful snark to mask the fear, the words on the tip of her tongue but unable to push past her lips. While Goldi and the man were spitting at each other, Fergie sat there gawking.
Very, very bad.
By the time some noise could come out of her mouth, it was cut off when Elaina jumped to the occasion, quick thinking saving her ass from explaining the weirdness herself.

Sebas shooed the rest away. Not having said a word during this himself, Bogrum stood up without protest, chair creaking in relief to be freed of his bulk. He walked out behind the others, but not without flashing a look of concern over his shoulder Fergie's way. She didn't know how to reciprocate.

“Fuuuck,” was her very eloquent reply to all of this. It really was just her luck. Not twelve hours into wearing the relic, and there were already complications. Elaina was heard, but she didn’t get an immediate response, Fergie taking a sip of water to chase the dryness out of her throat. As she lowered the cup, shaking in her trembling hand, she caught a glimpse of her scattered reflection staring back with bland, brown eyes. Maybe it affects the ex-loyal too, she had to wonder. That would explain why she could see her own illusion. The possibility didn't offer much solace, however, when her illusion being seen wasn't even the main thing she was freaking out about.

"This shouldn't— you w— i—" The rest that came out was incoherent, breaths catching in her throat as the rush took control. Breathe, dammit! She was panicking. Panicking was bad. Panicking was what made hunted creatures corner themselves in blind fright, making them an easy kill for the predator. She would be no such creature. Don't think. Breathe. Rapid and shallow breaths gradually slowed to deeper ones. Her fingers slipped under her hat when her head lowered to her hands, eyes shutting out the world as she counted down the seconds.
5... 4... 3... 2... 1... fuck me.

She took one more long breath, but wouldn't face them yet, mumbling into her hands, "Whole point of this was to NOT get ye's involved..." But they were now, and nothing could change that fact. Well, nothing aside from killing the guy, like Elaina mentioned. A little dark for her, but she supposed that's why you don't judge a book by its cover. "Look, I ain't gonna just mow down yer boytoy yet." Emphasis on "yet". "Don't need to make a big deal out of it. I can figure this shit out." Somehow. The only other option she could think of aside from stabbing his back and throwing his body overboard was to figure out where his loyalties laid, and that was dubious at best. Fatimah had been right about that; people were fickle, and minds changed over the slightest of whims. It crossed her mind to threaten him with blackmail, out him to Adonis if he was infiltrating. But it was a threat she could never stay true to, as that would prelude explaining herself to leadership. Yet another can of worms.

"Elaina, what can ye tell me 'bout this guy?" There were too many unknowns to make a decision. She had to gather information, especially when she couldn't recognize him from the last grease-coated bilgerat.

---

If Fergie had asked Bogrum the same question, he would have reminded her of when he pointed the guy out a few days back. Fergie had been too stuck in her own head to really notice what was happening around her. At first, Bogrum had chalked it up to her not caring; when he finally brought it up, unnerved by the number of times he showed up in her space while most of the crew stayed clear of her bad mood, she waved the matter off. Seemingly. She wasn't as subtle as she believed herself, as the following days, Fergie threw glances over her shoulders and eyed every dark corner of every room she was in at a rate that was obsessive. Very much in the fashion of someone who knew they were being followed. She acted standoffish and snippy any time the guy stepped in her space... and anyone else. That was the odd thing. He would have thought the behavior be reserved for the perpetrator, but it seemed no one was exempt from her biting tongue. Bogrum supposed she didn't want to single him out, make it any more obvious that she knew he was up to something. He never asked.

And after that whatever-the-fuck, he realized he really should have. Bogrum wasn't just suspicious; he KNEW Fergie was hiding something, and what she said yesterday served as confirmation, telling him she couldn't be recognized until this morning. He didn't point it out, but he noticed the belt. He noticed her slumped shoulders and (comparably) relaxed stance, opposed to her rigidness the evening prior. And he noticed the white sheet of horror that covered her face when she wasn't recognized by the wrong person. She must have realized this was the same guy who was following her. Worry for her sake pricked at his skin; what was going to happen between them?

Now wasn't the time to think on it. Bogrum swept his gaze over the group, keeping a benign smile on his face, as if what happened in the restaurant was no big deal. Whether they thought it was a big deal or not, he had to distance their minds from it, change the subject. "Thanks for all the hard work," he told the man. "Saves us the time. We might even be ready before the hour." He remembered what he came there for originally. "You wanted to discuss the weaponry?"

Kylesar1

Kylesar1 · Oct 8, 2021

Sebas Deadeye
The Bronze Fish

Sebas watched with bated breath as Fergie went into full-scale panic. Couldn't say he related, but when one got a relic to obscure their view from those who wanted to kill you, and it turns out that one of the people it hid you from was on the SAME SHIP, he could understand why she was panicked. Hell, he could understand why Kersact got that sense to point out Basenjis so he knew who NOT to steal from.

He made the right call and acted at the right time to get them the hell out of there. Goldi chalked it up to the dude being an idiot. Avery would ask questions, but Sebas could handle that with ease. Bogrum, since it concerned Fergie, would definitely be suspicious though. Maybe he should've let Bogrum in on it. Then again, since Bogrum was co-raid leader, he couldn't send the guy away without sending Bogrum as well.

Orabelle was looking on in fear at seeing Fergie panic, knowing the feeling and how she experienced it quite a bit at the beginning stages of integrating her into the crew. She buried her head in Sebas's lap and he comforted her by stroking her hair.

"Pull it together, Fergie," Sebas said, "This is nothing we can't handle." As a leader, he could do something, from delaying the situation by trading him back to the main ship, to getting Avery to kill him while they raided. "Told you we had your back."

Elaina

When Fergie said it wasn't a big deal, Elaina just looked at her with skepticism. The panic attack Fergie just had was proof of the opposite. "I can see the panic in your eyes, Fergie," she responded.

Now on the subject of her experimental manlet. The thought of him outside of her experiments really just irritated her. "He's looking for a big break. Massive debt, running from the hired assassins of some lowly loan shark, which made him become my guinea pig. You will be surprised at how far a man who is both desperate for money and frustrated for a touch would be willing to go........." Elaina was starting to sound a bit like Baroness. ".......so I pay him pitifully to be my test subject."

The implication is that he must've seen Fergie's face plastered on some wanted poster. "He literally is my toy, not my boy. Avery has a better chance with me in the bedroom than him." Elaina preferred men who WOULDN'T become her literal toy for her to use, abuse, and discard at will.

Sebas Deadeye

So it sounded to Sebas like this guy was actually on the hunt for Fergie. That wasn't good because Fergie would need to watch her own back on her own ship. Sebas leaned in and spoke in a low voice, "How much is the bounty on her head?"

Elaina leaned in and matched his voice. "250,000 gold."

The man's eyes widened at the pricetag. No wonder she felt the need to hide. Good lord. That was massive. The hell did Fergie do to piss off the Bronze Ballasts to that degree? "When did he figure it out?"

"No telling," Elaina explained with a shrug, not that it was relevant in her mind. "I don't keep up with his memory. Could've found out the last time we offloaded. Could've found out last night. Could've found out upon waking up this morning. Could've found out before Fergie joined the crew."

Sebas thought longingly "The thing about it is that we can't just up and kill someone like that." Killing a crewmate would get you yourself killed. It was an effective suicide to kill a crewmate in the open. One needed plausible deniability or a damn good reason......and proof of such. "Did he tell you he was looking to hunt down Fergie?"

"Absolutely not," Elaina said, "He only told me about A bounty. No indications of who or the fact that it was a Basenji. Otherwise, I'd have drained all 5 of his senses." Whether it was loyalty to the Basenjis or her respect to Fergie, she was dependable. At least the hunter wasn't so much of an idiot as to tell Elaina under the assumption that she would keep it secret...... then again, him being an idiot was to the benefit of Fergie

Hunter Crewmate
Path to Daddy Ship

"It was recommended that we don't take the heavier weapons," the man responded to Bogrum, "due to high winds. The cannons are fine since they'll be positioned to be stationary. It's the heavy rotating shooters, the projectile shooters like the flachette launcher, and then the Drop Blade we're concerned about." Ballistas, catapults, and the flachette launcher. The Flachette Launcher was a tall dart launcher that launched about 500 tiny darts at once at an extreme velocity, intending to shred everyone in its path. The Drop Blade was a massive and heavy steel blade made to drop on a ship and devastate its surface, with the intent to literally cleave it apart. While the Flachette launcher was anti-personnel, the Drop Blade was anti-vehicle, though it would kill anyone that wasn't a literal giant with a shield. It was massive, it was clumsy, it required being close, but rarely would a ship survive a direct hit with the Drop Blade. The concern of the Drop Blade was its incredibly high surface area, which could destabilize the ship in the event of gale force winds

"Also, we feel like the catapults won't be all that useful." Given the high wind, yeah it's a giant rock or cannonball, but it could be blown off trajectory. This is especially the case for explosive barrels, which would be blown massively off course from a catapult as it was smaller. "We can load it regardless, but if we could save space, we could load a lot more ordinance."

Specialized rounds in more numerous quantities, or big freaking weapons and heavier firepower that may bring hardship due to massively high winds?

WayfaringWaaksian

WayfaringWaaksian · Oct 8, 2021

Hearing Sebas in the background of her static-filled thoughts helped her slow crawl back to her senses. A reminder that it wasn't a good look for a leader, freaking out like this. Granted, she had handled plenty of stressful situations with them in the past, but this was personal shit. Could she keep it out of business affairs? Not if it sneaked into such matters itself, in the literal fashion it just had. Sebas telling her they had her back consoled her as much as it frustrated her. They shouldn't have to watch her back. This was supposed to be her burden... but it was just one man. One threat. They could deal with one threat.

Elaina calling her bluff was met with a laugh, one without a drop of humor. "Aye, the eyes! That's what gave it away! Not me hyperventilating five seconds ago." She fought to control her breaths even now, but it was a fight she had the high ground on. This wasn't her first attack. Far from it. And far from her last, the way things were going.

Fergie heard the whispered utterance of the bounty. Instead of another pang of fear, offense wrinkled her nose. Only 250,000?? Last year was double that! Ballasts skimping on bounty money wasn't unheard of to her, but it further showed her how little importance she had in the eyes of the Commodore. A more sane part of her brain told her that she shouldn't WANT a higher price on her head if she wanted to live. And, well, she could count her blessings. But still.

"Then a higher pay could get 'im to fuck off," she suggested, but shook her head after. "Doubt I could find half of that any time soon. Even in the sky." The thought didn't sit well with her anyway. She didn't like settling her disputes with bribery. The only thing stopping her from ending the problem now was the punishment that would await. Eye for an eye, tooth for a tooth, man for a man. If she killed him, she'd have to admit the reason why. Again, can of worms. "Could scare 'im into fuckin' off. Make 'im THINK I'll kill 'im." Her bluffs weren't always convincing. Or... okay, they usually weren't convincing. But it was hard to say no to a blade pressed to the throat, especially for a man with no backbone, if Elaina's description of him meant anything.

---

Bogrum forced his own thoughts to steer away from those worries, in order to consider the options given. If Fergie had been there, he felt like she would have said to do away with anything bulky and heavy, keep the load light and maximize specialized rounds. Much in the line of her own minimalist approach to gear. Good thing she wasn't there, then. "We'll leave without the ballistas and catapults. Lighten the load some. But let's bring the flachette launcher. Lighter ammo, still packs a punch." He knew they would be facing formidable opponents in the air, mercenaries with the money to afford armor and firepower that could well surpass their own. Adonis was a rich man with many resources, but his forces weren't specialized for aerial combat alone. They would have to be fast enough to retreat, but be able to return what they would be getting. Fergie would be satisfied with the compromise, he thought. "As for the Drop Blade..." By the sound of it, an absolute hassle to move around, and move around with at times. But an instant win when deployed at just the right time. Was it worth it? Bogrum thought so. "We'll take that too."

Kylesar1

Kylesar1 · Oct 12, 2021

Elaina
The Bronze Fish

"Panic showed in the body. Fear showed in the eyes," Elaina said, not backing down from Fergie's sarcasm, "Which sounds more pathetic when pointed out?" Elaina was more passive than Fergie, but her tongue still as sharp as Fergie's was, looking to strike their ego over everything else especially after what Fergie just displayed.

"Get a room," Sebas said, not dealing with that BS. He knew Fergie could carry on for a century if her stint with Baroness was anything to go by, "We gotta load up." He also knew Elaina's words would bite like a cobra, having known her for years.

Elaina couldn't fight Sebas on this. He also had a point that they were on a time constraint and didn't have all day to bicker. "A desperate man will do desperate things," Elaina said bluntly, "Dump him from the heavens.......or you pay me and I'll dispose of him for you." But Fergie was nearly broke, so that wasn't an option. Unlike the rest, she wasn't willing to do some sort of repayment deal.

Sebas Deadeye

All this talk made Sebas think. Surely it would reflect badly on him. Still........."As a leader, I can't openly condone this without some form of proof." he snorted and lowered his voice again, "As a partner though, I say end him. Send him in on the frontlines and hope the enemy kills him, or isolate and take him out during a raid."

"You're also not in a position to use intimidation tactics," Elaina said. That little panic attack didn't inspire much confidence, "He'd call your bluff in a heartbeat. Even if he doesn't, NOT killing you won't get him his money." In other words, trying to intimidate him would only make him stalk the background shortly after. It wouldn't ease Fergie's mind anyways knowing she was being hunted by someone on the same ship.

"Exactly. Suck it up, Ferg, and sharpen your blade." Sebas agreed. To Sebas, Fergie's problem seemed to be her wide lens view on this. This dude equated with the commander of the Ballasts, when that wasn't the case. "This isn't Evangeline. This is some dude who gets degraded on the daily by a nerd."

"A nerd who can't fight," Elaina added, "You're not safe, but you're not in enough danger to be shattering your bravado in front of us."

His head snapped to her position and Elaina knew she was playing with fire. "Shut it, Elaina," Sebas warned with nary a sense of humor in his voice, "If you can see fear, you can also see that I'm not playing around. I swear I will keep you locked in your room for the entire mission. YOU have no place to be talking down about someone's psyche, as I had to babysit your weak-ass underwater."
Sebas's growing agitation was intimidating. "I'll stop," she relented immediately, sensing she's poking a bear with a stick. What she didn't sense was that the bear was already agitated and her attempt at stopping short miscalculated his temperament.

"I don't know what the hell your problem is, but knock it the fuck off." She was acting weird, and Sebas was tired of it. Unfortunately, it was time to knock her down a notch, something he wasn't proud of doing as he and Ora really did like Elaina. "You're not Goldi. You're not Avery. You're not Fergie. Your place is shaking fetal position while we go in and get it done. I kept you here because you can see through the relic and you know the person of interest, NOT because we need you......." He leaned in and his voice dropped, a sign that the next words were to be a punch. "Your magic, as useful as it is, has never been vital to anything. Rarely do we ever NEED you. When you come to terms with that, pour some humility in that cup and shut the fuck up while you sip on it. Got it?"

Being yelled at stung. Being yelled at by the one who butted heads with the captain of the ship on her behalf stung. The words themselves stung. The trio of tone, words, and individual snuffed out whatever was lit in her belly like a baby under a pillow. "Got it. Sorry," Elaina said in a low timid voice, shrinking in demeanor. Unlike Fergie, who tended to play off attacks to ego, she couldn't. Pride wounded, she put her head down and focused on fighting down tears. Sebas could've kept going, talking about how he felt what she was doing was a performative act to be more part of the group. On a battlefield, she WAS the most passive and she WAS the least fight-heavy. She wasn't accepted into the group based on mutual battle stories. Maybe Sebas was just reading too much into it though. Plus, he believed he got his point across.

Sighing, Sebas turned back to Fergie. "At the end of the day, it's your life," he said, "But if someone was hunting me, the simple knowledge that they're on the ship wouldn't allow me to sleep unless I dump their body overboard, dead or alive." With that, he slapped a small pile of coins on the table. "Time to finish loading up."

Bogrum
Daddy Ship Dock

"Acknowledged," the crewmate responded without hesitation, "We'll get the rest loaded ASAP. We will be ready for inspection by 11:00."
Fergie would usually start giving out orders, her having been here longer and her being the primary raid leader. She wasn't here though, so Bogrum started immediately. "By word of Sebas, we want everyone dressed in their respective battle gear ready for inspection," Bogrum told him, taking a step forward on Sebas's word to be inspection-ready. "By OUR word, everybody that mans a ship weapon needs to be near that weapon, and that weapon inspection-ready as well." Guess he'd need to tell Sebas that if they were out of ranks, they may be near their assigned manned weapon.
"I'll relay that message to the rest." The man said, writing it down.

"Oh, and another thing," Bogrum said, remembering the logistics he, Fergie, and Sebas were told, "Everybody better have their personal stuff by the time we step on the ship. When we step on the ship for inspection, there's no going back to the main ship." Inspection would take an hour, which put them at noon for takeoff as per Adonis's word. No time for people to be going back to the main ship. "If you're not IN PLACE by the time Sebas steps on the ship, you will be considered late. Do NOT be late." Bogrum didn't know the punishment for being late, but being late for training back when he was living in Scorchclaw territory would end in him being the errand boy for the rest of the day after being destroying physically like having to run ridiculously long distances or hold squats for ridiculously long periods of time. Getting the reputation of habitual tardiness would make one VERY undesirable as a warrior or lover, undesirable for anything more than shining armor or picking up the Warlord's coffee
"Consider us on time," he replied, "Anything else?"

If this man hadn't caused such a weird reaction in Fergie, his lack of hesitation, willingness to listen to orders, and attentiveness would be very commendable.......However, this behavior could seem a bit weird. He didn't protest Elaina's degradation (something NO ONE with self-respect would've stood for), he's been on the crew for a while but this behavior was reminiscent of someone who was new

"Yeah, stop kissing ass," Goldi said. Oh yeah, Goldi and Avery were behind them. Avery was pre-occupied with Baby Bear, playing with the bear in cat form. "Your bullshit blindness is why I didn't get to finish my bacon. You're paying for my lunch AND you're paying back Sebas for the tab." Sebas sent them off before she could pay the tab. Goldi seemed weirdly pissed for someone who just saved quite the shiny gold-piece.

"Guess I have no choice," he muttered under his breath, too far for Goldi to hear but Bogrum was close enough to hear. "Anything else?" he asked of Bogrum.

WayfaringWaaksian

WayfaringWaaksian · Oct 13, 2021

Fergie was stunned into silence, taken aback by Elaina's hostility that seemingly came out of nowhere. She hadn't been trying to start something with her sarcastic comment; in her mind, she more so was taking a jab at herself than anything, for her weird insistence on downplaying her reactions. But if she could give any reason for that line of defense, it was people like her. If Elaina could see the fear, she could see the flash of pain in her eyes. And she could definitely see the swelling anger that quickly took its place, as that wasn't merely a wince in the face. Still shaking from her now waning panic, Fergie felt adrenaline rush into her veins twofold, flushing her face and bringing her hands to squeeze into fists. Though she felt primed to spring out of her chair and smack that contemptuous look off of Elaina's face, she remained still and silent, letting the look on her own face send the message. On account of Sebas's urgency, Orabelle's presence, and just not making another fucking scene.
Swallow. It.

Sebas didn't mind putting his own credibility on the line for her sake. She didn't know what to say, but it put some of her concerns at ease. The two still seemed to think that her panic was over the guy himself, which it was, to a small degree. But she didn't mind killing him if she had to. Hell, she'd killed sad fuckers like him over offenses less than possibly plotting her demise. For an offense this grave, she'd put him down without a second thought. Her only reason for considering alternatives was to find some way of keeping the others out of the line of fire, but seeing that there were none reasonable, anxiety spiked. Dammit, she didn't want this, but she wasn't going to argue anymore.
He doesn't mind. He DOES NOT MIND, for gods' sake, she would argue to herself instead.

She was about to respond to Sebas, only Elaina started shooting at her again. "Yer—" on thin fuckin' ice, she couldn't finish, Sebas already tearing into her resolve for her. As their leader, she allowed him. Something told her that Elaina probably wanted some kind of retaliation from her, goading her like this. If she ripped into her, things were sure to escalate. If Sebas did, Elaina shied away and melted into a puddle of sad, pathetic goo. A more petty part of Fergie wanted to call out the hypocrisy of it all, taunt her for the tears that were welling in her eyes for them all to see just after daring to mock someone else for their own emotional responses. She gutted that urge where it stood, and kept her mouth shut. She would NOT stoop to that level.

"Right," she answered Sebas, pushing away from the table and rising to her crutches. "So long's you give the okay, I'll take care of that bastard." And for now, she still had a doctor's visit to be at. "Thanks for breakfast. You'll see me at inspection."

---

It wasn't visible on Bogrum's face, but the exchange perplexed him. This man had no backbone to speak of, a complete inability to say no. Goldi could be frightening— though not to him personally— but he doubted she would beat the man into submission over a tab, and for as long as he's been around, he should know that. This behavior of his was weird to him, and paired with the knowledge that something was happening between him and Fergie, Bogrum would be keeping a close eye on him. "That will be all. Unless you had any other questions, I have some things to tend to." Getting his and Fergie's gear, mainly. Though he wondered if he couldn't catch her in the hallways after she dropped off her crutches. She would need help keeping off that foot, which made it the perfect opportunity for her to explain what the hell was going on.

Kylesar1

Kylesar1 · Oct 19, 2021

Sebas Deadeye
The Bronze Fish--------> Church

"2 hours. See you then," Sebas replied, "Come Ora." Tugging her hand was Ora's que to put back on her Trace Relic. "You too Elaina. We need to talk." The woman silently stood up and slunked after them, perking up after Sebas shot her a look. He wasn't sure why Elaina was being so damn annoying right now. Most of the other pirates would crack some period joke, and it could very well be the case, but that was not only not his business but it wasn't an excuse for bad behavior, showing hostility and condescension to an ally that she was respecting up until this morning

As soon as they made it out of dense population, Sebas spoke. "Elaina, what the hell is your problem?" he asked without looking at her or missing a beat on the path they were taking
"What do you mean?"
"No time for you playing stupid, Elaina. I'm pissed enough as it is."
"I......I'm sorry."
"I didn't ask if you were sorry," Sebas said through clenched teeth, feeling his annoyance growing into genuine anger, "I asked what your problem was."
"I....don't like being deceived," she said after much hesitation. The last thing she wanted was to be demeaned for a 3rd time. "That relic for some reason just got to me."
"Deceived? Were you at the table when we were talking?" he asked in exasperation, "If you were being deceived, it means she's coming for your ass. Breakdown or not, you've seen how she stacks bodies." The woman was a killer. Not as much a killer as Goldi, but definitely more of a killer than him as he was more likely to ask questions.....that's how he ended up with a fish child. "She's not deceiving you. She's protecting herself."
"I'm sorry. I acted like a complete ass and I know this will bite me worse later than it's biting me now....and it's biting me hard even now." Seeing your respect for me draining in real time is biting hard enough as it is, she thought.
"Lip service," Sebas barked
"I swear this isn't lip service," she pleaded, fighting tears again and losing. Those 2 words hit pretty hard and maybe because it was her genuine feelings being seen as a lie.

Between Fergie's breakdown and Elaina's actions, Sebas was done with all of this. He stopped walking. "Fergie trusted you enough to show such vulnerability and you kicked her while she was down," he said, making it very clear WHY he was still angry at her, "Coward shit, Elaina. Trust squandering, a backstab. It happens again, you're dead to me." Maybe he was being over-dramatic and maybe Fergie wouldn't even consider it a big deal, but seeing it undermined his trust of her regardless of how it affected Fergie.

The implications of her actions should've been common sense, yet it had to be spelled out to her and Elaina felt like an idiot for it not clicking until this moment. Passive-aggression, roundabout phrases, and cattiness had no place at Sebas's table. That was at the mage's table, where it was like some wolf hierarchy with everybody convinced they're the alpha. She WANTED to sit at Sebas's table, but the man who gave her a seat was about to boot her from it, and understandably so. "I promise I won't do it again. I'm sorry."
"Don't be sorry. Be better," Sebas retorted, "You know what time inspection is......now go away." Elaina looked around and found that they were in front of a church. "Wait. Why are you at a church?"
"Ora felt the need to come here. Why is not of your concern." Just piling on the barbs. She had been incredibly involved with Ora. Ora was one of the things the two bonded over, so to be shunned from something Ora-related was yet another spear in her heart.

----------------------------------------------

"Nothing else. I'll be getting this done." The man said and scurried off towards the airship dock

"What a wimp," Goldi mused, "Can't even beat Avery in an arm-wrestling match and dude's a total trap."

"I may not be the pinnacle of masculinity," Avery fired back, "but I train with Sebas and he's brutal." No way in hell it could be that brutal to someone like Bogrum. As an orc, he was stronger than every non-orc on this ship......well he would be if he didn't spend all that time malnourished. As it stood, his strength was on par with the weakest orc on this ship, which was still strong in raw numbers. Just not strong for an orc
"As long as he's not training, he's gonna remain a freaking wimp," Goldi said. They went up to where they would split to go to their bay. "Anyway, we gotta move. SOMEBODY forgot to pick up their weapon so we gotta grab it before going to the Canine."
"Give me a break, Ash," Avery muttered with a shrug, "I was blackout drunk with Sebas last night."
She leaned against Avery. "Something finally happened in that room of yours?"
Avery scoffed, "Still meowing up that tree to deaf ears. Whatever though, at least we partied."
"So, big man," Goldi said to Bogrum, "We gotta take off. I'll see you later. Sickles shined and axe sharp." With that, the trio split off once and then twice

This left Bogrum to grab Fergie's stuff. She still had to return the Ordination to Doc, so she HAD to show up back to the ship......that is, unless she wants to remain broken for the Canine Mission.

WayfaringWaaksian

WayfaringWaaksian · Oct 20, 2021

A more casual Bogrum would have shown some investment in the two's banter, putting in his own piece rather than simply listening. His ears were present, but his mind was not. When their respective duties pulled them away, he did so while giving little more than formalities. Business before pleasure was a staple everyone knew Bogrum lived by, and for that his distance could be explained away. A mind buzzing with all the responsibilities of a raid leader, the in's and out's, and things of those sorts. They were on his mind, but not as much as his personal mission of catching Fergie and having that talk.

That personal mission ended up being mostly waiting on his part. Their respective belongings were with him, having been packed long since, and now all that was left was to wait for Fergie to turn in her Ordination. Whenever that would be. Having already talked to the doctor, he knew he hadn't missed her. Bogrum was about to pull away from the wall and begin searching, worry goading him, before he finally heard the familiar sound of crutches down the corridor. "Fergie? Where have you been? It's been forty minutes since—"
"Loose ends." She waved him off, not bothering to look at the scowl of concern on his face. "This 'n that. Shit to do."
Bogrum might have argued that seeing the doctor was the very first loose end she should have tied, but he was in no mood to entertain this nonsense. "We need to talk." He motioned his head towards the sickbay door. "Get that sorted out first. I've waited long enough."
"Ye ain't me captain," she bit back. "Don't order me around."
They stared each other down for a few beats, then looked away in unison.
"Sorry."
"'Pologies."
"We're on a time crunch. I want to arrive an hour early, at least. Make sure everything's shipshape. Don't want Sebas seeing the mess before we do."
"Right. And..." She kept her head ducked down now, face hidden under her hat, but Bogrum already saw that her eyes were red and puffy. Unless she got hit with random allergies, he knew she must have been crying. "I'll explain... all that. Everything. If we're workin' together, you've a right to know."
"Thank you. I'll be waiting here."

When she returned from her final check-in, Fergie wouldn't explain much until they were out of the corridors, where ears could catch echoed words. And even after, she only spoke in vague terms. Bogrum understood the necessity of taking precautions, and didn't press much more, for now anyway. They were due for a long discussion after they set off and things settled, but he had a well enough understanding of what was going on. She pissed someone off, they posted a bounty, said bounty caught the eye of that guy who stalked them down the halls. Fergie hadn't verbally drawn that conclusion herself, but Bogrum had that understanding. The belt was supposed to hide her from her hunters, but since one of those hunters was already on deck, that complicated things.
"Sounds like a headache."
"'A headache', he says."
"Alright, fine. A waking nightmare."
It was tempting to let that explain it all, why Fergie was gone for so long. Her having a long discussion about the issue with Sebas and Elaina. But Sebas wasn't one to draw things out, especially when there was a tight schedule. There was no reason he could conjure that Fergie would be out that long because of him. Maybe it really was just more loose ends, but with the way she looked when he saw her again...
"Just hit me." They were gazing up at the Canine, taking in the sight. "Already said it's our first time, but it didn't really... give a feelin'. 'Till now. Get me?"
"I do." Bogrum wanted to press more. Fergie had a knack for acting okay when she really wasn't, so he couldn't trust this nonchalant attitude she was carrying after everything that happened. Now wasn't the time, though. Business before... well, trying to drill into that thick skull of hers was hardly pleasure. But he couldn't have her clawing back at him when they had to work together. "We can enjoy the luxury later. I want to make sure they don't drop that big-ass blade on our ship before we take off."
"Fuckin' hell, we're taking THAT thing on board? And I thought I was the crazy one."

Kylesar1

Kylesar1 · Oct 26, 2021

The Canine

A relatively small airship, but one armed to bare the sharp teeth of its namesake. Incredibly fast and incredibly strong, this ship sacrifices a lot of armor that would be on heavier ships for the ability to go for the throat of any ship that threatens it, and go for the throat with extreme precision and even more extreme speed. If this ship bares its teeth at you, either fly that white flag or prepare for a fight to the death.

Weaponry: Drop Blade

The Drop Blade is a keystone that houses a massive reinforced stone pillar in the shape of a sword. When deployed, this thing will drop and cleave apart everything in its path, oftentimes splitting ships in half. Nothing short of magic or a giant could hope to reload this thing back to deployment-ready position after its been dropped. It's THAT heavy. In the history of the Basenjis, not a single ship has ever survived a direct hit from the Drop Blade. The keystone in which the blade sits requires magic to keep the thing from falling prematurely and fracturing the ship that is supposed to deploy it.

This weapon is anti-vehicle in nature, intended to devastate the surface of the targeted vehicle.

Weaponry: Flachette Launcher

The Flachette Launcher is a dart launcher of Dwarven invention that launches about 500 tiny darts at once at an extreme velocity, intending to shred everyone in its path. The launcher has both a horizontal and a vertical mode, and is loaded in 5 large packs of 100 arrow intervals in each of the 5 squared sections. This launcher is intended for anti-personnel use, as it tears through most personnel armors with utter ease

(I wrote up a TON more weapons, so if you want that writeup, I can add any more to the LORE section)

Everyone got everything they needed and ensured to be on board. An hour early began the ship arms inspection to make sure every ship weapon was properly prepared and ready to fire, not rusted, and cleaned to ensure everything fired smoothly. Ammo was inspected to that there was enough to take out an army. The keystone to the drop blade was inspected to make sure the magic was charged to ensure it could both hold the blade upright so it doesn't fall and destroy the ship, and to ensure it could bring the blade back up post deployment lest it unbalanced the weight of the ship

Fire Cannons- Cannons that fire napalm rounds, smokescreens, or anything having to do with incendiaries
Flachette Launcher
Drop Blade
Long Cannon- Cannons that fire smaller, more precision rounds. Effectively used as a sniper or to pierce shields
Mortars- Fire projectiles in a ballistic arc to attack targets behind shields or cover
Magic Cannons- Cannons that fire magic-imbued rounds or rounds made of magic
Cannons- Standard pirate fare
Harpoon Cannon- Cannon that shoots a massive chain into the enemy ship with the intent of pulling it close

The grapple hooks, boarding planks, zip lines, and other raid gear were inspected as well to ensure that a team wouldn't plummet from the heavens just because a rope snapped.

Grapple Hooks- Every pirate has it to ensure they can hook on a ship.
Boarding Plank
Zip Lines- Shot into the enemy ship to give a direct connection to raid it
Portal- When both sides are established, it allows users to go back and forth as they please between the two
Floating Swing- When unleashed, it provides a point in the sky for someone to shoot a zip line or grapple hook to

-----------------------

"INSPECTION!" Sebas stepped on board with Ora in tow, pulling the boarding plank up. Oh boy, I guess we're doing this, he thought. Time to command a crew to victory. Everyone was already lined up from Fergie and Bogrum's inspection, now they lined up to be inspected first so they could continue their own inspection.

The process was thorough. He didn't care if the weaponry was shined. So long as it wasn't rusted and it was sharp, it passed. Their armor, whatever they chose to wear, must be shined/preened and free from large cuts/holes. Cloth armor couldn't be torn to shreds for obvious reasons. Those that had cloud boots must have them on. Grapple Hooks must be present as EVERY pirate were given them. Guns must be cleaned and with ammo present.

Elaina's Pegasus was inspected and she presented proof that the flying steed was free of illness and injury
Sebas's flying companion, an owl griffin named Misty, was inspected for the same. The kitten-sized owl griffin flashed white and grew to an ENORMOUS size to ensure that she could with no issues. Her claws were inspected for sharpness
The Wyvern swarm were all inspected for no illnesses and no injury, sharp claws, and sharp teeth. Those who could breathe fire or ice were inspected for breath strength
Mages with staves or tomes were inspected to ensure they were charged with magic
The cloud boots were inspected to ensure the magic imbued in them was functional
The portals were set up and tested to ensure they worked

Sebas had Bogrum inspect his weapon for a 3rd party opinion to ensure it was shined, cleaned, and with ammo. Ora's stave was inspected to ensure it was charged and her relics on her

Those who weren't up to par were sent to get up to par with harsh words. Those who were completely late and off the ship were ignored as if they didn't exist. He told them to not be late, so he could only assume that anyone late was not a member of his crew

Inspection over. Sebas talked into his communication crystal. "Canine to Basenji. Inspection done."
"Basenji to Canine. We are ready for takeoff." It was the sub pilot. Sebas was really happy he wasn't part of the Canine, though he was competent after he pulled his act together

Thunderous roaring as the systems in the ship whirred to life and the propellers tormented the ground below with a constant stream of searing hot fire as the ship began to lift off the ground. This sound amplified twice with the other (defensive) escort ship and then the main ship itself. This process was a bit slow to lift, but soon it got high enough to be able to turn safely towards the direction they'd be flying. Ora held her breath with anticipation, a bit scared at the loud noise and them lifting even further above the water than she had grown used to. Now though, she'd have no access to the depths below, whereas she and Sebas went on PLENTY of swims while sailing. The thought of not swimming in an actual ocean was a bit daunting to her, but Sebas had been reassuring her while they were in the chapel praying to Goddess Mariana

Skies above Andouphe

When the crew was fully in the air, pushing towards the clouds, Sebas turned to his crew. "Elaina, begin scouting immediately. We need a layout of what's above the clouds so we're not missing any beat for going through them."
Now for Goldi's favorite part. "Fergie, Borgum. Work with Elaina. If there's a raid to be had, run it by me so I can shoot it to Basenji Ship." The color in Elaina's face drained when Sebas told them to work with her. After all that crap that happened, Elaina couldn't even look Fergie in the face. She knew Sebas was pushing it on her as punishment. Interaction aside, they still had to work together to get things done efficiently. God, I wish I could've taught Avery my magic so I'm not the only one, she internally groaned.

"We're the offensive escort ship. Let's not miss any beats taking down all these rich ships."

WayfaringWaaksian

WayfaringWaaksian · Oct 26, 2021

(Sure, I'd like to see them.)

The deck rumbled underneath boots when the engines fired and roared, and stomachs dropped as the ship inched its way upwards. Unaccustomed to this sensation, Fergie held fast to the railing, keeping herself upright against the push and pull of the ship's motions. But she was fearless, looking over at the ground as it fell beneath them, and watched with bated breath as the buildings below shrunk to pinpricks, roads to crisscrossing mazes. The sea around it became a flat expanse of blue, seeming so small yet so large as it still stretched on past the horizon. It fascinated her, seeing it from this perspective. It was like the world had flipped over itself, the sky now the sea, the sea taking its place as that distant plane that was read but never touched. Not until now, anyway. "Damn."

Once liftoff had completed, Fergie felt stable enough to release her iron grip, turning towards Sebas as he gave orders. She thought nothing of it at first. With Fergie as a raid leader and Elaina as the ship's scout, they would have to work together regardless of ill feelings. Then she saw the blanched look on her face, and a spike of anger pierced her gut. Unlike Elaina, Fergie wasn't afraid to look an oppressive force in the eye. Despite what had happened, she would do her duty. If Elaina showed any signs of avoiding hers, however, she might be tempted to gouge at that open wound.

"Understood, Captain."
Fergie was about to tease what she felt was a needless formality, but then she saw that Bogrum looked a few shades paler himself. He swayed a bit in place, swallowing what might have been bile down his throat. "Don't tell me yer gettin' airsick already."
Despite the discomfort that wafted off of him, he waved the concern away with a pained smile. "My first few days at sea were rough, but I adjusted. Here will be no different."
"'Ight. Just keep away from the edges until then."
"My ears popped three times already," he said, raising a hand to cup over an ear. Add a headache to that motion sickness. "Is that normal?"
"Aye, mine did too. Elaina said it was somethin' 'bout pressure difference." So it really wasn't that much different from the ocean after all. But instead of floating on it, they were swimming through it, like a submarine.

Now Fergie addressed the crew herself. "Ye's heard the man. Once we're outta the city limits, the sky's fair game. Be ready at any moment."

Kylesar1

Kylesar1 · Oct 26, 2021

Goldi
The Canine Deck- Skies above Andouphe

"Hell yea! Axes up, people!" Goldi roared with Baby Bear roaring with her, matching her hype. The thought of air raids sent her blood pumping. Jumping to another ship while flying at speed that can match a Sky Dragon couldn't be matched and that's what stamped out any semblance of fear for anything mortal. A thrill-seeker through and through with infectious enthusiasm.
Avery shared the same sentiment as Goldi, but less axes in skulls and more bullets in skulls. He looked up. "Once we breach clouds, I'll head up to my post." Referring to the watchpost the Drop Blade was sitting in front of. It was the only place to put it that wouldn't cause problems with the wind. "If I can spot them from afar, Elaina can focus on revealing the suppressed stuff."

Goldi looked down at the shrinking ground. "Take a look, Baby Bear." The bear leaned on the rail to look down with her. "Ya probably don't even remember Isleif (Pronounced Ice-Leaf) at this point, but ya think he'd be proud of me?" she said to the bear
Baby Bear growled and grunted in response.
"Yeah well, I'd have loved to be taking care of kiddos but......" she sighed somberly, "He's the reason I'm out here. Expecting that loved ones will move on is a luxury only the fallen are afforded."
More growls and grunts.
She pet Baby Bear and ruffled his head fur. "I'll complete the Mama Bear and Papa Bear rituals in due time. We're about to start Mama Bear not too long from now actually."
Avery came over to her. "Didn't you tell me Isleif was big on battle?"
Goldi reminisced for a bit. "Yeah he was. One of the best."
"No reason for him to not be proud then," Avery responded putting a hand on her shoulder, "You've got the highest body count on this ship......and almost all of them with blades."
Baby Bear gave more grunts and stood on all fours
"Therapy cat," Goldi teased and pulled him into a shoulder hug, then hugged Baby Bear. "Therapy Bear."
"Axes out, Ash."

Elaina
Front of the Canine

Elaina inhaled deeply as she looked to Fergie and Bogrum, knowing Sebas was watching her. She couldn't get out of this one, as her skill was invaluable to making informed decisions. Oh well, Sebas was certainly the last person to show the slightest bit of mercy.

So she walked over to the front of the ship. "I'm gonna begin scouting for ships above the clouds," she told the duo, "I'm not gonna make any suggestions though until we fly our flag lest we alert the Royal Airforce. Let's not raid until we're clear of the Royal Airforce. Sebas would certainly agree." There were so many Royal Airforce drifting about in the wind, they would be blown to bits by Royal Airforce Fighter Ships (essentially fighter jets in operation). That was why it was important to get clean out of city limits before engaging any other ship.

Sebas came over. "Fergie, Bogrum. For raids, I need one of you coordinating the personnel and the other coordinating the ship weapons." If BOTH raid leaders were on the front lines, there would be no defensive effort nor would there be anyone there to guide the weapons. Plus, they were both inexperienced. They both screw up, the Canine was left without raid captains. "You're knowledgeable of this stuff, Elaina," the captain said to her, "If they have questions, answer them. If I get a repeat of earlier, Evangeline will be happy to see you when you walk the plank back to Basenji ship." Oof. He is still angry at me, Elaina thought. She stifled herself and just answered. "Got it."

He gave all 3 of them communication crystals, not needing to explain their use again, then took his leave.

Elaina sighed. Awkwardness on her part would plague her mind. No point in putting it off. "Alright then. Before we start, I'm gonna go ahead and apologize for my behavior earlier." She had no idea if Sebas told Fergie, or if Fergie told Bogrum. Not knowing made it a harder pill to swallow. "Sebas didn't put me up to this, but he did rip me apart for for my behavior earlier." She inhaled deeply. "No excuses, and I hope helping dump that bastard from heaven will serve as an effective form of apology, NOT that I expect things to be like they were before it."

WayfaringWaaksian

WayfaringWaaksian · Oct 27, 2021

Fergie was satisfied with the enthusiasm of the crew, finding herself temped to smile. Aside from the possibility of waking up with a blade pressed to her throat, along with the annoyance that would be working with a certain someone, maybe this mission wouldn't be so bad. She dared to hope, anyway.
Though speaking of said annoyance. "Aye. Noted." Fergie held fast her tongue when it wanted to lash at Elaina for trying to educate her on what she already knew, what she had JUST demonstrated she knew. The point was that Elaina was trying, which was better than ignoring her, as she'd expected. Her next words lacked the subtle bite of the ones before. "Give us the word when the skies are clear."

Bogrum, of course, noticed her terse tone and rigid stance while she talked to Elaina. At first he attributed it to the general stress of everything that she told him about, but once Elaina brought out the humble pie, things pieced together. Well, more like new pieces to the puzzle were found, and he wasn't yet sure where they went on the board. He said nothing, set his face in stone, but still felt a compulsion to ask what the hell had even happened between them. Because even after an apology that sounded genuine, Fergie was still narrowing her eyes at her. Glaring, in fact.
"Watch where ye talk about that shit," she hissed in a low whisper. It further irritated her that she was talking about the matter of murder directly in front of someone she had no knowing if he was briefed. Or... well, maybe she did. Who knew what Elaina knew, she's Elaina. "But... fine." She folded her arms, her gaze not yet sheathing its daggers. "Appreciate the dedication to duty. Can't let feelings an' shit get in the way. Distraction kills." Turning away, she shooed her off. "Bogrum an' I got logistics to figure out."

She didn't wait for Elaina to leave her, motioning Bogrum to follow her quick stride across the deck. Good that her anger was taking them out of earshot faster, as Bogrum couldn't keep it in anymore. "That was... an interesting way to accept an apology."
"Tch. What, do I gotta give hugs and kisses to show how I feel now?" Then she halted, bristling where she stood. "Don't start tellin' me that 'forgive an' forget' shite."
"I wasn't implying that you hadn't." Though she basically just told him she hadn't. "Or that you should."
"Bogrum. Drop it. I know what yer gonna try to do."
He opened his hands. "To... help you process your feelings? Like you said, distraction kills."
"I've dealt with enough damn feelings today." She huffed loudly, bringing up a hand so her fingers could slip under her hat and run through her hair. "Just wanna raid an' kill somethin'."
"Alright. Then let's talk logistics."

Bogrum knew he was stepping on thin ice trying to get her to open up. He couldn't tell himself he didn't try, at least. "Personnel or weaponry. Your pick."
"Personnel," she said without a second thought.
"Hoped you'd pick that one. I've found I can be indecisive when it comes to... people."
"Yer axe don't have no trouble," she said, smirking.
At least she was smiling now, he thought. "Not who I'm cleaving, no. Who I'm sending out to do the cleaving."
"Seems simple to me. Got an axe, go cleave. Got a gun, shoot their brains out from afar."
"And that's why you're best fit for the job." That led to one more task. "We'll have to decide on our co-coordinators though, since you and I won't be at the same stations."
"Right. Already know who that'll be."
"Likewise. I'll go find our weapons guy," Bogrum said, moving off to take care of that business.

--

Avery's party of three was about to be crashed, when Fergie approached. "Heads up, folks. New development. Bogrum will be overseeing the weapons stations, an' I'll be leading the raid party while we do our thing. I'll need someone to help give out orders." Since Goldi served as her replacement should something happen to her, it went without saying who. "Think yer up for the task, Goldi?"

Kylesar1

Kylesar1 · Nov 3, 2021

Ashlynn "Goldilocks" Thormdottir
Deck

Their little party was crashed by the raid leader, who came to her to be a raid party co-leader. Goldi gave Fergie a big smirk at the request. "A woman after my own heart," she remarked, "Glad Bogrum didn't think I was up for commanding guns." Guns were one of those things she disliked in battle. Any schmuck could point and shoot. While Avery's accuracy with a gun was only to be respected, she respected him more because he could hold his own if someone gets in close. Elaina knew how to use a bow, which took more skill than a gun. All of the low-effort grunts on ships used a gun because they didn't want to put in the time to train with a blade, which left them weak and flimsy, allowing her to demolish them while Avery put up as much cover as she needed, or Baby Bear charged into the gunfire to soak up bullets.

The same could be said for firing cannons. Cannons were definitely needed on the ship, but to call yourself a warrior when you're sitting in a relatively safe spot firing a cannon by someone else's command was a bit insulting to the title, something her upbringing and culture took offense to. It also tended to incur the same behavior of not bothering to train with a weapon. Just load ball and pull cord, a job Adonis could pay a dwarven engineer to automate

Anyways. "I gotcha covered if ya want."
"Unless Bogrum is using me for weapons," Avery said, "I'm part of the raid party as well. Someone's gotta give you cover."

-------------------------------------------------

Bogrum went to go see Sebas. As someone who is new to all of this, he wans't exactly the most well-versed in who would be qualified to take the reigns in his stead as the co-leader. Sebas would be more than glad to fill the raid orc in on good information.

Special Weaponry

If Bogrum wanted a weapons guy, if not the sniper Avery, he may find himself at the firing range at the bottom of the ship. The person in question was in charge of the armory, where they assigned weaponry to the pirates of the ship. They never seemed to speak, just assign weaponry as requested. The person wore a shemagh, a cloth that seemed to cover their face to its entirety. The only other time this person were in action was in cases where cannons needed to be fired, where this person was standing behind the cannon crew, seemingly giving orders but saying nothing. Then again, Bogrum didn't stick around enough to listen. Besides that, they were typically left alone to their own devices, but in this case, if Bogrum wanted to procure this person as a weapons commander, he would need to say something more than the usual "I want [insert weapon]." Cannons, swords, guns, axes, bows. He had it all. He commanded it in times of battle.

This was the person Bogrum got his weaponry from when he joined the ship. In times of inspection or battle, this was the man there around the weapon, saying nothing but the people in charge of the weaponry acted in favor of polishing or firing the weapons (in battle), and turning to him at times even though he said nothing to them or pointed or anything.

When Bogrum approached the armory window, what was in the dead middle was a stone tablet separating 2 different windows. Words scribed across the tablet. "Welcome.......Call me Shamir." The man himself was using a grindstone to sharpen a sword. Ah, now things were starting to make sense. Either he held a vow of silence, or this man was mute. Fergie had told Bogrum about a guy that was mute, but this couldn't be the same guy.
The words disappeared and more appeared. "Armory. Firing Range. Projectile Weapons Expert. Blackmarket Dealer." A Blackmarket Dealer on this ship? A bit weird that he was on the escort raid ship instead of the main ship, but.....Maybe Sebas chose him, or maybe he would be utilizing his not illicit trade-deals from this ship (doubtful). He is mysterious, he is weird, he has connections

If Bogrum was looking to keep the enemy guessing, Shamir was a good choice. If he were looking to keep the enemy from adapting to a highly varied and easily interchangeable strategy of attack, Shamir was an EXCELLENT choice.

Abilities:
Special Cannons and Ammo- Through black market procurement, Shamir can get access to weaponry that is otherwise incredibly rare to come by

-----------------------------------------------------------------------

Targeteer

Option #2 would find Bogrum where the mortars were. This person was a cyclops. From what Bogrum could gather, this person was what was known as a targeteer. Not to be confused with the one that carries a small shield, this one is someone whose role it is to plan bombardment attacks like they'd be doing in the sky. The most Bogrum had seen of them, this woman was part of the initial attacks on that merchant ship, giving the orders to the grenadiers by quite literally telling them exactly the coordinates, the bow draw strength, and angle of shot that they needed to be in. After her orders, not a SINGLE arrow landed in the water. Her single eye has the best eyesight on the ship. Without Elaina's magic, she wouldn't dare compete with the natural power of this cyclops woman's single eye. Like Avery, she can dome targets from far away. UNLIKE Avery, however, she was strong enough to physically pick up and carry a cannon, load it and fire it. With that in mind, if she weren't giving orders, she could probably operate some super heavy Dwarven sniper cannon whose recoil would break Avery's shoulder. She is smart, she is calculating, she is PRECISE
Ability:

Lockon- When distance is gauged, she can cast a spell to move a weapon (or archer priming their bow) into the exact position to fire directly on that position, and move alongside the target. The spell (and weapon aim) is broken if and only if she loses sight of the target
Guide- If she's holding a weapon, she has the ability to guide the projectile fired from the weapon to whatever target the wielder (she) desires it to so long as she maintains sight of the target or target area. It allows her to potentially carry out a one-woman mortar attack on any given enemy

If Bogrum was looking to tenderize ships as much as possible before Fergie's frontline raids, this was his best choice. If he were looking for someone who could potentially destroy a ship outright before a frontline raid was needed, this was an EXCELLENT choice

--------------------------------------------------------------------------

Heavy Weapons

Option #3 would take him over to the cannons themselves, to a lizard-man. Apparently, he led the undercrew of cannon-shooters. He wasn't known to carry a weapon himself on the regular, but when you had sharp claws, iron-hide sharp scales, razor sharp teeth, a flame sack to spit fire and fireballs to cook someone in their armor, and the ability to rile up every other member of the cannon-firing under-ship crew to fire much faster, why would you need a weapon? he was simple and effective, and as strong as you can get for someone who liked to be mostly unarmed. He already commanded a crew and specialized in superior cannon-firepower. He was bold, he was brash. He liked heavy cannons. Anything with direct fire capabilities was his forte
Ability:

Fire Sack- Glands in his body allows him to spit fire without the need for magic
Frenzy- Whips himself and crew into a frenzy, making them fire faster and more aggressively
Serrate- Sharpens every spike on his body, including his scales, claws, and teeth
Incendiary Rounds- By spitting acid or fire onto the weapon, this allows him to fire more powerful cannonballs upon the enemy

If Bogrum was looking for aggressive attack and high firepower, this would be Bogrum's best choice. If he were looking for someone who could just as easily augment Fergie's frontline raid force, this would serve as an EXCELLENT choice for a weapons guy

-------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

Area Denial and Support

Option #4 was Avery, now found at the crow's nest as the ship began to ascend into the clouds. The ability to conjure up cover for his allies and different traps against his enemies made him a reliable force for either offense or defense, throttling enemies into chokepoints to take on with a direct cannon shot, or supporting his allies against enemy fire, area denial with things like conjuring fire/acid barrels, bear traps, proximity bombs (mines), anti-air mines, etc. He stands high and looks low through a scope. His strategy is to support the frontline team and take out the big threats before the raid even begins. Having met Bogrum before and respecting both him and Fergie, he would be very eager to achieve whatever the raid duo told him to do. He is accurate, he is supportive, he is perceptive

If Bogrum was looking for someone who could best support Fergie's raid efforts OR looking to bolster the ship's defenses, Avery would be his best choice. If he were looking for a strategic approach for a slow but sure way to take out a mass amount of enemies at once, Avery would be an EXCELLENT choice

Abilities:

Conjure Cover- Can conjure up protective barriers to ensure the safety of allies
Conjure Traps- Can conjure things like bear traps and anti-air mine to deter movement of enemy troops
Sniper- An extremely effective sniper

--------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------

All-Arounder

The 5th and final option would be found in the bay. A Swamp Troll. In simplicity, a rugged pirate's pirate not unlike Bogrum himself. He wasn't missing a leg and keeping it in place with magic like Fergie, he didn't conjure stuff up like Avery or have a pet bear he could summon like Goldi. In general, he was probably the most well-rounded pirate, having no specialty and no real advantage besides having been here for about as long as Sebas had, being fairly well-liked among the crew, and being able to operate every weapon on the ship with ease compared to the rest of Bogrum's options. His fat fingers made it too hard to carry a normal firearm, but he could carry a blunderbuss, and his strength made those fat fingers capable of caving a man's chest in. He is resourceful, he is experienced, he is tough
Abilities

Acid/Toxic Sack- Glands in his body allow him to spit or secrete highly corrosive, fast-acting acid or fast-acting toxins all over his body to empower his claws, bite, and his whole body
Experience- Due to his well-liked nature and experience, this man knows the ins and outs of the ship better than any other option given
Advisor- Due to his experience, he would be very qualified to give legitimate advice on how to approach most situations

If Bogrum was looking for someone who he could leave to his own devices and assure his job was in good hands even if he went to assist Fergie, this guy would serve as an EXCELLENT weapons guy as his experience, general knowledge on most weaponry, and well-liked nature among the crew made him able to command with ease

(Winner gets a CS)

WayfaringWaaksian

WayfaringWaaksian · Nov 4, 2021

Fergie couldn't help but snort at what Goldi said. She hadn't known her long, but she was well aware of her dislike of firearms. Maybe she just felt that way, or it was some warrior code thing, Fergie could only surmise. "And bore you outta yer mind? Hah, it's me he don't show no mercy to." Although it was situations beyond combat where Bogrum intentionally pestered her. She wondered if he might be so inclined to be said pest if he spent more leisure time with the others, or if Fergie held that special place in his annoying-as-hell heart. At least she'd get a bit of a break from him for the raids. "Appreciated."

In reply to Avery, she said, "We'll need the cover, aye. Bogrum said he's looking for the "weapons guy", which sure narrows it down," she muttered to herself, flicking her rolling eyes up to the approaching clouds. "He'll keep us posted, though."

---

(A difficult choice on my part, so I ended up going with who Bogrum is most likely to choose. Going with Option #2)

With a wide cast of competent officers, Bogrum would be hard-pressed to make a bad choice. But that didn't alleviate the burden of making the absolute best choice, and that took some consideration. He was confident that any of them would help lead them towards victory, so that wasn't on his mind so much as other, seemingly minor facets that he felt needed attention so they wouldn't become major. As they would anywhere, conservation of resources was important. But up in the air, there was no room for error. Anything that was lost was lost forever, and that included people. With that responsibility weighing on him, he didn't want to be careless and take too many chances with risky maneuvers. He wanted precision and accuracy. Given what he had seen of her during that first raid, Bogrum felt most confident choosing the Targeteer.

Kylesar1

Kylesar1 · Nov 5, 2021

Ashlynn "Goldilocks" Thormdottir
Deck

"First thing's first," Goldi suggested to Fergie, "We need to rally the troops. Since we're moving close, we're gonna breach the clouds and leave the limits of Andouphe. I know we're raiding soon."

Elaina came over to them. "We are indeed," the master scout said. "I already told the navigator that we're clear to breach. I got eyes on 2 ships above the clouds about 500 meters out. 2 of them are together: A ship carrying a rich socialite. Can't say I know who exactly, but at least they're not royalty." Otherwise, it would be escorted by Royal Air Force. "They're being escorted by a heavy Mercenary ship." They could expect riches, but also a huge bounty for their flag if kept it floating or left a single survivor of either ship.

"The different ship about 300 meters behind them looks a bit more normal (pirate ship). Flying the Golden Gun flag." The Golden Guns prided themselves on superior small arms. They are known for being VERY good shots with their firearms. Since they pride themselves on good firearms, there could very well be a relic firearm owned by the commander. Plus, since it's a pirate ship, there could be treasure chests on it. If there were survivors, it would put them at odds with the Golden Guns

Goldi gave her insight. "I'd go for the Golden Guns. I think we're still too close to Andouphe to risk the Royal Air Force. Some rich dude calls for mayday and our flag is wanted with a royal decree." She was happy to stack bodies and fight. Still, she knew to not get involved with the Royal Air Force. A soldier was easy. A fleet? Not so easy

Sebas Deadeye
Navigation Room

As Bogrum took his time deciding on the best officer to help run the weapons, Sebas was looking over a sky map, which looked a bit like a normal map. Of course this HAD to be different than other maps because if one looked out over the sky, all they'd see is......sky. Ora was nearby reading out of some book.

Soon enough, Bogrum chose one. Their Targeteer Cyclops. Guess he had more than enough confidence in himself to lead a crew he was new to, as Sebas would've been willing to bet he'd have chosen the Swamp Troll. Then again, it's not like he knew the inner machinations of Bogrum's mind. "Ah, the targeteer," Sebas nodded. "Rain hell and let Fergie sweep up the remains." He took a seat across from Bogrum. "This Cyclops is a woman named Nakaos (Nah-Kay-Yose). She is......quite the cyclops. She's able to change her height, which is why she'll appear our size. That size is by CHOICE." Makes sense. Cyclops were part of the Giant family, making them massive. "It keeps her from knocking stuff over or stepping on someone by mistake." He thought for a moment before continuing. "She's generally uncomfortable talking to someone and NOT looking down on them though, so if she grows herself to be a bit taller than you, it's not some show of dominance." Just decades upon decades of literally physically looking down at everything that wasn't a fellow giant.

Moving on. "You may be asking why a Giant is a targeteer instead of a warrior. Bringing her would make the Drop Blade a redundancy......but we can replace a Drop Blade if it falls from the heavens. We can't replace someone like Naka." A giant that can cast magic to make her more approachable? A cyclops that can cast magic that's not hostile to them? A magic-casting cyclops that's not hostile to them that can use their weapons AND guarantee that it hits on target? Her serving as a drop blade would essentially be sacrificing an irreplaceable relic. Adonis knew value when he saw it

"Naka is friendly. Talks a bit weird. Regards us as cute, not unlike elephants do. You've seen her work though." Sebas pulled out more notes on her. A quick read and he looked back at Bogrum. "Orcs can be prideful, so I must say. If she regards you as tiny, do not take it as an insult. All of us are tiny compared to her full figure. Even if she's down to our height, as she usually is while on ship, she's been alive longer than almost all of us. Habit. Plus, she can just grow back to full figure to prove it. We don't need that." A drop blade AND Naka in full figure would certainly destabilize the ship or at least weigh it down enough to affect altitude.

"Ummmm......." What else was there? Not being able to think anything else, Sebas shrugged. "I think that's about it, in terms of what I can tell you. I'll take you to meet her."

------------------------------------

----> Back Deck

The duo set out to the back of the deck of the ship, where the mortars were. Mortars, archers, and grenadiers were in a circle around the woman of interest, who was towering above the rest. "Remember tiny humans, Angle important. Right left angle. Up down angle," she said in a thick accent (pretty much Russian) "Otherwise, you waste precious ammo. You waste ammo, friend die. Friend die, Naka gets angry." Her voice was gruff and she huffed. "Naka prefers calm, yes?"
"Yes." The group responded dutifully
"Mortar, archer, be fast. Naka hates slow-loaders. Slow loader take fast fall."

Sebas looked to Bogrum. "As she said, don't make her mad. There's enough power in her body to single-handedly take down this ship." Much like Evangeline. Much like Adonis. Much like Baroness. "I'll leave you to it."

WayfaringWaaksian

WayfaringWaaksian · Nov 5, 2021

Fergie mulled over their options in her head, but was soon to say, "Agreed. Too soon to start takin' on the big guns." She passed a look out over the skies, brushing a contemplative finger and thumb over the stubble on her chin. "We'll take it in increments. Start with the easy pickin's, work our way up the further out we get." Not just to wait until the aristocrat ships were too far out to send out an SOS, Fergie wanted to give herself practice before rushing into a fight with their employed mercenaries. She was confident that they would win against these Golden Guns, but she wanted a gauge of her and her team's collective abilities before she'd allow herself to be too confident against more challenging entities. "Itchin' to put some holes in some rich folk meself, but that can wait.

"Elaina, keep us posted on that pirate ship. Goldi, let's rally the troops, put 'em on standby. I'll alert Sebas that we have a target once we're ready."

---

Bogrum wasn't one to think much or little of anyone he had only been told about, ever in a mindset of neutrality especially when it came to new people. He had grown used to meeting interesting characters like her during his travels, especially since walking on board with the Black Sea Basenjis. Never before had he seen a more diverse group, a melting pot of races from all across the world. A cyclops woman he wouldn't bat an eye at. Not on the grounds of her being a cyclops, that is. "I wouldn't mind someone looking down at me for a change," he said, an amused smile at the thought. "Some of the troops from our last raid seemed a little intimidated by me. Hoping that won't be an issue when I'm not the only one standing over them."

Once Sebas escorted him to the person in question, Bogrum could see that it wouldn't be much of a concern after all. This woman was massive, even at this compressed size, and spoke with a blunt brashness that would keep anyone alert, if her towering height wasn't enough. He would be craning his own neck to look up at her if he stood beside her. "Thank you, Captain," he told Sebas before he took his leave. Sebas warned him not to irritate her, so he waited until she was done speaking to her crew before getting her attention.

Finding an opening, he introduced himself. "Excuse me. Nakaos, was it? I'm Bogrum, raid leader. Sebas sent me to find someone to help coordinate the ship weaponry. We've already worked together a little in the last raid, haven't we?"

Kylesar1

Kylesar1 · Nov 8, 2021

Ashlynn "Goldilocks" Thormdottir
Front Deck

Goldi flipped her sickle in her hand. "I'll get em all together. You can go report it to Sebas."
"No need." Sebas approached, "Already here. Showing Bogrum where his chosen weapons coordinator is. Nakaos."
"Ah, the old one eye. I would've put my bet on Avery."
"Same, but he made a good choice nonetheless. For ship weapons, no one's more accurate than her."
Internally, Goldi was grateful Bogrum didn't choose Avery and felt a bit guilty at being happy. Him not being chosen sort of robbed him of valuable leadership experience. But still, she trusted no eyes to keep her safe moreso than Avery's, and him being on his post was invaluable to her.

"Elaina's got a hit and we're clear to breach. I'm gonna get everyone out here." Goldi said and began to step off.
"Hit the siren."

Goldi was getting hyped up. After they breached those clouds, it was time to fight. "Ready to maul some faces, Baby Bear?"
The bear grunted and nodded in acknowledgement.
"That's my bear. Mama's a leader now." she said with a laugh and ran to get the siren on

Sebas Deadeye
Front Deck

After Goldi took her leave, Sebas turned to Fergie. "With Nakaos being a targeteer, it opens up our options a bit and allows for different attack paths." Had Bogrum chose anyone besides Nakaos or Avery, they would need to take a more brute force direct approach to attacking, especially if he chose the lizardman leader of the cannons. "Since we're under the clouds, we have the opportunity to launch our attack before breaching." Naka's weakness is that her spells don't work if she can't see the target. Such a weakness could be alleviated if Elaina buffs Naka's eyesight, allowing her to see through the clouds.

"Of course though, it's up to you and Bogrum. Just make sure you squash any conflict between you two before you inform me." The last thing he wanted to do was to be a tiebreaker about something that could end in them dying.

Nakaos
Back Deck

"Ah. Raid captain," Naka said with a friendly nod, "Address me as Naka. The raid we worked together in went smooth under you and other raid captain's order. Pleasure to make full acquaintance."
"Naka?" Someone approached her
Naka huffed. Her demeanor immediately changed. "Better be good reason to interrupt Naka. Better be DAMN good reason to interrupt raid captain." This tiny human knows the rules yet chooses to be this dumb, Naka thought. Her single eye pierced through the unfortunate soul.
"I....er"
"Out with it or out of my face," Naka growled. "Such disrespect." Naka was strict when it came to respect. No easier way to annoy Naka than a subordinate interrupting a leader out of turn.
The guy quickly stepped back. "Apologies."

A snort, and she turned back to Bogrum, the friendliness back. "Naka is pleased to be selected. With Naka's advice, the enemy will meet ruin. Munitions will be conserved, we will watch them explode," Naka said seriously, "Naka's team doesn't miss. With Naka coordinating the weapons, The Canine doesn't miss." This much I can promise you, she thought confidently. Let's discuss plan with other raid captain." She turned to the intruder. "What did you want?"
"Were you still wanting a simulated test fire of the new Cluster Round?"
She thought for a moment. "Standby. Naka will give word later."
A siren went off. That oh so familiar siren that told the ship all hands on deck. "Guess we get acquainted faster than Naka originally thought." It was time to get down to business, and Naka was ready to fire.

WayfaringWaaksian

Ship's Abilities

Goldi- "Axes in skulls!"
+ Goldi's troops are highly aggressive and hit harder in close combat
+ Animals on the ship (Baby Bear, Wyvern swarms) are faster and more aggressive
+ Goldi's troops are better at clearing gaps between ships, as well as door/wall breaching
- Goldi's troops are less proficient with firearms
- Goldi's troops use magic only as a support
- Goldi's troops use light armor

Nakaos- "You have your coordinates. FIRE!"
+ Nakaos's ship weapons are extremely accurate
+ Nakaos's bombardment attacks hit harder with higher explosive yield
+ Nakaos's indirect attack weaponry (mortars, catapults, archers, grenadiers) fire faster and with vastly improved range
- Nakaos's direct attack ship weapons (cannons, drop blade) fire slower
- Nakaos's ability to fire with pinpoint precision depends on her ability to see
- Nakaos's ship guns reload slow

Fantasy Are you tired of sipping Crab Coladas? (Pirate RP) (Always Open)

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