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Post by Emil Aurion on Jul 27, 2016 19:13:19 GMT -6
Emil had waited patiently for his order to arrive, which was almost out of character for him. He woke up before the sun rose the day they were to set sail, by time he arrived to the docks as the sun began to peak he saw workers beginning to build a balltista on his ship. Grinning like a mad man he approached the foreman. "I see you slackers finally got to work." The foreman gave Emil a dirty look "We weren't given a lot of time to gather the supplies nor time to move them down here."
Emil was pretty excited so he forgave the lip the man gave him. Pulling the small pouch of gold he kept on his belt the past few days he dropped it into the fireman's hand " There's the other half I owe, and a little extra for ya to deal with however ya want." Emil slapped his shoulder before walking towards the tavern for a quick drink or two as well as breakfast before waiting for his crew and clients. He had a few flake out a couple of days ago but he was sure he could fill their spots before they left the docks. After he finished his meal he gathered his food he purchased for the trip as well as supplies for the boat and loaded it into the ship while admiring his new ballista. He couldn't wait to put it to use, but first he needed his people to show up. He waited on the dock with his back resting against the ship, his weapons was stored in his cabin for the time being.
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Post by Gar on Jul 27, 2016 23:22:50 GMT -6
The morning of a voyage always possessed a certain quality. It was a mix of emotions that Gar had grown accustomed to. Excitement, curiosity, longing for adventure and a pinch of trepidation. A week had passed since the crew had last gathered and today was the scheduled day of departure. A portion of that week was spent with Aeos, gathering supplies. The pirate glanced at the armband his nabatan friend had given him. That was before I upset him talking about myths and stuff. Whatever, we’ll still get along better than most of the other crewmates. Gar tried to recall who all was supposed to be joining in on the trip.
As strolled along the docks he mumbled to himself. “Me, Aeos, uhh the big guy who I mouthed off to, that shirtless guy, an archer girl, and the captain.” Gar lifted his head and allowed his eyes to fall upon that very man. “Mornin Cap. Nice day for a risky venture wouldn’t ya say?” Gar chuckled and strode up the gangplank to give the boat a quick once over. The pirate noted something on the ship that was not present earlier. A ballista was placed atop the Arielyn. Gar called over the side of the ship toward Emil. “Got yourself a new toy huh?” Hopefully the crew wouldn’t need to use it, but Gar thought it was good to have. He just hoped he wouldn’t have to learn how to work the contraption himself.
Gar returned his attention to settling in on the ship. He placed his satchel in what he figured to be the mates’ quarters. After he was fairly familiar with the layout of the ship, Gar walked down the gangplank and returned to Emil. “Anything ya want done before we set out?”
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Aeos
Dragon
A Nabatan Dragon in human guise, with a love of food and traveling.
Posts: 441
Profession: Wandering Dragon
Affinity: Light
Dragon Element: Air
Profile: Aeos Profile
OoC Alias: Twilightfairy
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Post by Aeos on Jul 28, 2016 7:21:59 GMT -6
Today was the day. Aeos could barely sleep a wink with how excited he was at today's event. Today was the start of the expedition to Valor. He spent the early morning hours catching his breakfast. He throughouly checked and packed his belongings. Then he was off to the docks. He found the ship sitting in its dock and it had something he had not seen before. He tilted his head at the ballistae and silently wondered what sort of creature they were going to fight with it. Gods.. please don't let it be a sea dragon. He shook his head lightly in order to bring himself back into focus. His eyes found the captain standing at the base of his ship. Aeos waved then approached.
"Good morning captain." His voice was casual.
"Lovely morning for a trip. Hopefully it will stay that way." He nodded before excusing himself to go on the ship. He found the ramp up to the deck and looked around. Aeos studied ships and ship maps in the archives so he had a general understanding of where everything was. He found the crew's quarters and tied a cloth at what he presumed to be his bunk. He still kept most of his things on him as had packed lightly and knew thieves came in all forms. He went back up on the deck and looked up at the crows nest. He felt comfortable in high places like that.
His concentration was broken when he saw a bit of blue at the corner of his eye. He noticed Gar. Aeos was still slightly upset at him. The comment regarding dragons as just myth hit Aeos in a way he wasn't prepared for. He knew Gar didn't mean for it to be insensitive. He realized this was something he needed to overcome if he was going to keep living in this world of humans. He had already forgiven the sailor already over drinks. He just needed to remember that.
"Good morning Gar."
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Post by Vincent on Aug 1, 2016 13:12:54 GMT -6
Vincent stretched his arms as he strolled into town, his face beaming. By his side he carried his silver lancereaver, on his back his gargoyle tusk dagger, and on his belt was a small ornate box. He traveled light but prepared for anything. It felt like just yesterday he was setting out for the far north and here he was again: late for the recruitment and seeking to join anyway. Last time he had to prove himself in a fight that left his jaw broken, most unpleasant. He doubted his lot would be the same as before but in truth he had no idea and was ready for a battle with the captain if needed, he was certain he would not lose this time.
The sea breeze was refreshing and calming as sailors bustled about their chores he garnered no odd looks or glances, it was as though he was one of them. So far it was far better than his last expedition, and he prayed he would not be in the galley anymore.
Looking the ship over it was obvious they expected danger, who put a ballista on the ship if they did not intend to use it. Finding himself grinning the spirit of adventure took him, now he needed only to find the captain. It was not hard to find him. The description of the man named Emil was spot on and he found him speaking with another sailor.
"Good morning Captain!" He waved a hand as he approached. "I know I am late but word of this expedition did not reach Sacae for some time. I am Vincent Clark and I promise you I can pull my weight and then some. I took part in the colonizing expedition in the north and can handle whatever tasks I must." He patted his sheath adding, "And I can hold my own if we meet trouble."
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Carmichal
Brigand
Booze is always an acceptable form of payment in my book.
Posts: 41
Profession: Mercenary
Affinity: Wind
Profile: Profile
OoC Alias: Marc
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Post by Carmichal on Aug 5, 2016 13:46:01 GMT -6
Unlike the rest of the hired hands on the expedition, Carmichal had risen early in the morning to assist with the preparation of the ship. He had arrived to find a ballista being hastily assembled on the bow of the ship. Being the ship’s carpenter, he took it upon himself to help in its construction. After greeting the captain, he hauled lumber from the dock onto the ship’s deck, and when there was none left, he helped hold pieces of the ballista in place as they were secured. It was difficult labor, but the aging mercenary took it in stride. There was something about strenuous work early in the morning that made him feel alive. For a man of almost fifty years of age, he needed to keep his body in the best shape possible, or risk losing his abilities, possibly forever. The construction of the ballista was drawing to a close. Carmichal, feeling he was no longer needed, descended the gangplank and gathered up his belongings. He wanted to grab a top bunk in the crew quarters before anyone else arrived. He didn’t much like the idea of someone sleeping above him on land, let alone on the rough seas.
Having secured a preferable sleeping arrangement, Carmichal returned to the deck to find that several of the other hires had arrived. He joined them, happy to see some familiar faces, and that the giant man was not among them. There was a new face with them as well, a young mercenary by the name of Vincent. He seemed a bit wet behind the ears, but he seemed confident in his abilities. Carmichal certainly wasn’t going to tell him to leave. He approached them, offering a wave and a hearty smile. “I’m ready to shove off when you are, Cap’n. Need me to take one last look at the ship?”
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Post by Emil Aurion on Aug 5, 2016 19:54:38 GMT -6
Emil gave each of his riders and crew a nod in response to them arriving and entering the ship. Charmichal had been the first to show up, ensuring the paid labor did their job right, this man had a sense of duty which pleased Emil. Next few were some that paid their way on, then Gar who received a nod as he was greeted. Far had seemed impressed with his new 'toy', " I'm hoping to get to put it to use at least once. If you're eager to get to work ya can help make sure everything is secured so it don't go slidin around as we set sail."
Aeos arrived, Emil hadn't exchanged words with him, next was a last minute customer then a man who introduced himself as Vincent. While he didn't offer pay he did mention he had helped with colonizing up north, that means he should be decent at building stuff. "Ya see the burly man without a shirt on up there? The tan one, he's gonna be ya boss. If he tells you to jump don't bother askin how high just do it. If he's not pleased do it again." finally the final members had arrived.
Emil boarded the ship pulling the rope that kept it tied to the dock and tossed it down onto the dock. He took the small bag of gold he had just received and tossed it to Aeo. "You're Workin for me, you didn't have to pay." turning to the group of people gathered on the deck he spoke louder. "I have a couple last second rules to tell everyone, if you're here to work and you're not pulling your weight ya ass goin overboard. If you're caught stealing, I'm sure I'd get a couple volunteers to tie ya to the mass and the victim will get some target practice with the ballista. Now, the wind isn't strong enough to take us out to sea nor is there a current. Once Gar says we're ready I'm going to need some of ya to go down below and use the oars to push us out."
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Post by Gar on Aug 6, 2016 13:33:47 GMT -6
The captain gave Gar his first task before they set sail. The request was simple enough. Take the things that could move and make it so they don’t move. The pirate nodded and replied in understanding. “Aye aye.” As he crossed the deck to begin his task he was greeted by his friend, Aeos. Gar smiled and returned the greeting. “Mornin to you too, mate. Don’t want to be short or anything, but I got a couple things to tie down before we set out.” With that Gar made his move toward the ballista. He spent a few moments examining the contraption and found it to be perfectly capable of bearing the high seas. Gar turned and called out to the ship’s carpenter.
“Ey Carmical, like what you did here. Looks like some solid work.” Everything on the upper deck was secured and the sails were properly furled. All that was left was to check on the stores below deck. From the looks of it, all the wares were tied down, but not as secure as Gar would like. He untied and rearranged the boxes and barrels so that they fit together in a more stable formation. After, he securely tied ropes around the cargo and gave it a couple yanks to ensure that the ropes were taught. Gar returned to the upper deck and called out to anyone willing to assist.
“We’re all set. Join me down below so we can get our voyage started.” Gar dipped his head under once more and travelled to where to oars were located. He gripped one in his hands and angled it toward the dock, searching for something to push off from. Gar’s oar contacted something that he assumed was the dock and began to push against it, to little avail. Gar took a breath. It’s probably best if I wait for a few other hands to get us going.
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Aeos
Dragon
A Nabatan Dragon in human guise, with a love of food and traveling.
Posts: 441
Profession: Wandering Dragon
Affinity: Light
Dragon Element: Air
Profile: Aeos Profile
OoC Alias: Twilightfairy
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Post by Aeos on Aug 7, 2016 8:11:29 GMT -6
Aeos caught the bag of gold he was tossed. He was slightly confused at the gesture. This was the money he had given the captain to help with the expenses of the trip. The flyer did say payment was upfront. But, it would seem that since he was Emil's employee he was not to pay for the trip. Aeos nodded softly and quickly pocketed his gold. Aeos listened closely to Emil's rules. He found them to be simple enough. The captain had intentions to run a tight ship and Aeos respected that. It was here that Aeos noticed the arrival of both Carmichael and a new person. This person had whitish colored hair and was not one of the ones who joined them at the tavern. A last minute hire probably.. The young man looked like he was well armed and a competent fighter.
Aeos would introduce himself to this stranger in time. The next person he saw was Carmichael. It would seem that the man was responsible for the assembly of the ballista. He did good work. Gar greeted him and spoke about things that needed to be tied down. Aeos would help him with that until he remembered his role on the boat was navigator. He needed to get his bearings straight before they set sail. He had spent the days preparing for this job. He learned of the seas and currents of Lycia. He learned of the terrain of Lycia and of Dread Isle. He learned of the ships and how they operate. This was a huge responsibility for Aeos if he failed then they would be lost as sea. He pulled out his map and compass. And judged that they were northwards. That meant that the island was towards the south west of them.
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Post by Vincent on Aug 10, 2016 21:33:29 GMT -6
Emil seemingly brushed Vincent aside but he did not turn him away and for that he grinned and nodded before heading off to help the 'tan man.' Emil seemed gruff and impatient, uncaring and rude; and Vincent suspected that that may just be the case. Words unneeded he walked away and to the 'tan man' ready to help when he overheard mention of using the ballista for practice on thieves, after tying them to the mast of their own ship.
Vincent found himself rolling his eyes and sighing at just how ridiculous the idea was. The threat was not lost on him but it was certainly a silly one if any of the men had the mind to think about it in context. They would merely destroy the ship and strand everyone in rough waters.
Down below deck to row huh? It would not be the first time, nor the last he suspected but as much as he hated it he knew he would be there. "Aye Captain!" He called signalling he understood the need. Looking now at the 'Tan Man' he addressed his belongings. "Would you care for a hand with all of your things? I came light so I don't need to take anything down myself." Reaction pending Vincent could feel out just what kind of man he was expecting to work for. Would he be gracious for the aid? Stubborn and bullheaded insisting he can handle everything on his own? Or perhaps even hostile untrusting of him and perhaps even someone to keep an eye on due to being unstable. In fact, Vincent knew the man needed no aid, it was merely a test.
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Carmichal
Brigand
Booze is always an acceptable form of payment in my book.
Posts: 41
Profession: Mercenary
Affinity: Wind
Profile: Profile
OoC Alias: Marc
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Post by Carmichal on Aug 21, 2016 11:11:04 GMT -6
As the orders came that they would be needing to row out of the harbor, Carmichal reflexively began to roll his neck and shoulders. With a crew of their size, it would take a serious effort from each man to get the ship moving and he certainly didn’t want to throw out a muscle this early into the venture. In addition to their initial assignment, Emil had also put the newcomer directly under his command. Though not terribly surprising, the decision elicited an eager smile from the aging merc. He reveled in any chance to work to work with younger mercenaries and he was excited to see what potential Vincent might be hiding. Already the kid had eagerly come to greet him and offer his support. Carmichal flashed him a hearty grin and handed him one of his boxes of provisions. “Thanks, kid. Name’s Carmichal. I’m the ship’s carpenter. You’re Vincent, yeah?” he inquired, lifting the other box and making for the lower deck. “Ya ain’t gotta worry too much about that macho, manly stuff Emil was talkin’ about. Just do good work when I tell ya to do it, and we won’t have a problem. So tell me, you got some nice swords there. Ya been doin’ mercenary work for a while?” They arrived at Carmichal’s cot and he dropped the box nearby. “Ya can set that down there. If ya need somethin’ while we’re out at sea, feel free to ask. I’ve got supplies for two.” It was a shame that Lorely had never shown up after the two had gone and purchased their provisions together, but Carmichal was not remiss to have the extra stock. He was accustomed to being broke and would not be remiss to take the charity. While he waited for the call to get to the oars, he took a moment to get to know his charge a little better. “You’re Lycian, yeah? I’m gonna guess... Worde? Or Tuscana? Santaruz maybe? I’m from the Western Isles, myself. Tavern wench’s bastard turned pirate turned bandit turned mercenary. Ya know, you’re usual success story,” he chuckled, with a hint of bitterness. He wasn’t ashamed of his history, but it did tend to carry a certain stigma with it.
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Post by Emil Aurion on Sept 4, 2016 22:58:48 GMT -6
Emil had watched the crew scurry down below, it was a good sign that they were listening to him... For now at least, but when he proves to know his crap they better keep up their attitude of wanting to be here. Emil moved to the helm of the ship shortly before he felt it jerk as they began to leave the dock, a feeling he could never hate. He had steered the ship out towards the sea as the people below were rowing, he felt the ship pick up it's speed as it entered a current, he could feel the wind blowing at his back so he decided to walk towards the mast and lower it. Once all of that was done he walked to the entrance to the bottom of the ship and let out a shout to indicate they were good and didn't have to row any more.
Pulling his spy glass from his belt he extended it as he reached the highest place on the deck and began to search around them. It didn't take long for him to find what he was looking for, there was a ship heading in their direction so he let out a grin. He reckoned by time they caught up to his ship they would be too far out from land for anybody to see what was about to happen. "Listen up boys and girls. You see that ship approaching us from the west?" Emil had pointed at it, just in case they needed the help. "I reckon that's a pirate ship, if it is then you'll start to get ya money's worth from get go."
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Post by Gar on Sept 5, 2016 19:30:29 GMT -6
Gar was seated with the other rowers, stroking away at the water below. It was the exact kind of work the pirate was accustomed to. The only question was how long would it be required? Just as the thought crossed his mind, the strokes became easier. This was indicative of the ship catching wind. Gar nodded and began to retract the oar back into the ship. Soon after, the captain dropped by to confirm Gar’s belief. The sails were filled with wind and rowing was no longer necessary. With that Gar was free to return above deck and he did so.
He gave the sails a look over to make certain none of the ties had come dislodged. He was in charge of the rigging after all and if anything happened to the sails he would likely be blamed for it. Gar confirmed all was where it should be. Gar began to look around the deck for Aeos, hoping he would be able to start up a conversation with the man. His search was briefly interrupted by an announcement from the captain. He had suspicion of pirates. From his experience, the pirates you had to worry about stayed around the western isles. It was unlikely for any of the more dangerous crews to be out in these waters.
Gar scoffed and spoke. “Pirates? I doubt it. Go to the isles if you want pirates. These scrubs are probably more like beggars with boats.” Gar smiled and tipped his head toward the ship’s ballista. “Don’t be too surprised if they take one look at that bad boy and turn tail Hahar.” That said, Gar awaited his captain’s orders. If Emil decided it was time to fight, he would be ready. The crew might even get another ship out of it, if nothing else. Gar smiled at the thought of having to rig up a way to tow the extra ship with them. It would be perfect for filling with the spoils of Dread Isle.
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Aeos
Dragon
A Nabatan Dragon in human guise, with a love of food and traveling.
Posts: 441
Profession: Wandering Dragon
Affinity: Light
Dragon Element: Air
Profile: Aeos Profile
OoC Alias: Twilightfairy
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Post by Aeos on Sept 6, 2016 6:22:59 GMT -6
Aeos gave Emil the needed direction before he went below decks to aid with the rowing. This was not the first time he had to row a boat and it certainly wouldn't be the last. He quietly followed the motions of the others, rowing in time with them so the ship would obtain the most movement. It wasn't long before the captain commanded them to stop and have them return topside. The dragon man took a deep breath and gently exhaled. He liked the scent of the sea. Especially now that they were farther out, the sea air felt stronger. The scent wasn't mixed with whatever smells the port cities produced.
The captain pointed out something in the horizon. Aeos cupped a hand over his brow yo shade them from the sun. He saw something off in the distance a blackish blurry thing that was moving towards them. He squinted his eyes and gently tapped into some if his stones power. He drew power towards his eyes. Their features changed slightly. The pupils becoming a bit more slitted and his iris becoming a tad bit brighter green then usual. These changes were subtle and a human would have to be looking directly into his eyes to notice the change. This shift in eyesight let him see the black dot a bit clearer. He could now see that it wasn't a dot but a ship. Captain Emil assumed it was a pirate ship.
Gar made a comment about the Isles and pirates. Aeos wished he could contribute a bit more to the conversation. His only knowledge of pirates consisted of sailor fables that he heard at pubs. Many pirates didn't bother raiding small fishing vessels like the one Aeos and his father used. And since they kept moving up and down the desert coastline they never really present if and when pirates raid any villages. He was familiar with bandits though. He assured himself that pirates were the sea equivalent of bandits. And that meant he could beat them.
"Right.. the ballistae." He turned around to look at the massive weapon, gleaming in the sun.
"I've never seen one fire before. Twould be a shame if they turned tail.. I really want to see what it can do."
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Dietrich Landrik
Mercenary
GAZE AT MEIN ROLLED SLEEVES, NOOBKOPF
Posts: 81
Sacae Fame: -1
Western Isles Fame: 1
Profession: Mercenary Marine
Affinity: Thunder
Profile: Profile - Journal
OoC Alias: Synkkis
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Post by Dietrich Landrik on Sept 6, 2016 21:10:06 GMT -6
The salty crew that was doing a lot of the tedious work finally got a little reprieve now that the ship had started its course. Knots were tied, sails were set, and guidelines where they needed to be. The ship certainly needed a bit more work before adding a bit of glorious weaponry to the front. The blonde marine was a stickler for details and he knew immediately that the ship sailed just a tad differently with the added weight so far aft. He was the captain with all the cash and if he wanted any he wouldn't go ahead pissing off his captain so early. They had a whole voyage to get to that.
Wiping his sweat off with his handkerchief, Dietrich whetted it with some collected rainwater. The cool water on his neck felt fantastic. The sour smell of the seas brought new life to him and it certainly improved the spirits of the old hares that followed him around as loyal as the sun rose.
Berg, though hefty, had the best eyes of the group. He had the solitary task of keeping watch in the crow's nest. Leaning over his perch, he spotted the golden hair of his comrade below. "Landrik! Ship on the horizon! Is the Cap'n approaching!? We don't have our colors out for approach!" Berg always felt a bit perturbed when things weren't done a certain way. Perhaps spoiled by the professionalism of their first Captain.
Keppler, also soaking his handkerchief in the bowl of rainwater next to Landrik chimed in before he could reply. "Yes, he's wanting to make sure they're not pirates! Just keep those eyes trained on it and report as usual!" the tall fire-haired man commanded. Smiling, he nudged Landrik and spoke more softly. "Adventure, eh? That usually winds up with at the very least one of us getting it with a pointy bit and a few pints less in the system. Do you think this will turn out any better?" he asked, half-jokingly but underneath the quirkiness a worried tone that trailed.
Landrik sighed, a smile easily parting his lips. "I can never say that, Kepp. I don't worry about those kinds of things anymore. St. Elimine is looking after all of us. If she wants to take us, then she will. I have nothing to fear. I don't consider myself very courageous for that. Courage comes from those who have fear and conquer it. They are stronger men than I." the Marine relaxed, closing his eyes and breathing in the salty air. The constant pacing of people across the deck disturbed this peace. There would be plenty of time ahead to relax. "That said, ol' Cap'n Hoffmann mandated we wear armor and helmets. We wouldn't want to break that tradition, right?" he laughed, tying the handkerchief around his neck and turning towards his gear.
With his helmet in hand, he raised it above his head and shouted, "PREPAAARE FOR ENEMY ACTIONNN!" the marine alarmed the deck. He barely knew any of these people, but he had a pretty good idea on how to keep people alive.
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Post by Vincent on Sept 16, 2016 13:39:41 GMT -6
Vincent decided rather quickly that he was going to like Charmichal. He did not refuse the aid and he was friendly enough. He told him a rough, very rough, overview of his life and it sounded like a hectic one. Then again Vincent had only been traveling for about two years now and he had certainly done a lot. He inquired about his birthplace and his weaponry calling them fine swords. Honestly they had become so battered and him so accustomed to them he had forgotten just how high in quality they were.
Setting down the supplies as designated he stretched his back in an arch and looked around the dark room. Perhaps he'd take up an eyepatch for the voyage... Nah. Never mind. "I've been a mercenary for two years now." But most of that time was not doing many jobs. "Used to be a farmer but an old friend dragged me into the adventure," he laughed, "and then new friends kept me in it." He patted the sheath of his silver lancereaver approvingly. "I got this one back in Illia. It's broken a couple times but it was a good commission, what with monsters and everything else." He addressed his dagger, "some sacaeans made this from a gargoyle tusk as a thank you." He patted the large box he carried, "but this one? Well, if we run into some serious trouble, maybe you'll get to see this one." He grinned relishing the mystery of his final blade. He used to display it proudly but these days it was safer locked up. The power he could now wield from it was, a touch overwhelming.
"I would be interested to hear the tale of a pirate, bandit, mercenary. Living a life thrice over that too few don't survive once." Vincent nodded to being Lycian, "I am indeed, though it has been some time since I was last home. I've taken up residence in Hero City in Sacae. A small place but it has a garden." He laughed. The garden would go intended in his absence so perhaps to say there was one was a lie but the soil and heart was there.
After a short chat it was time to row. With the small crew it took an effort from Everyman but in time the current and winds took them and they were off on a new adventure. "From one ship to the next." He commented to himself.
Back up top he looked out to the ocean taking in the seabreeze smelling it deeply. It had been only a short time since he left but it was strangely nice to be back. Just as he was feeling content there was shouting. Prepare for combat? How long had they even left? Was this a poor joke? But alas it was not. A mixture of confident calmness and unreal irritation swept over him as he drew his blade. Perhaps he should show off with his sword and blast the other ship with divine magic? He decided against it. It was best to leave his aces unseen until needed. He moved to the side of the ship they were most likely to be boarded from and readied for contact.
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