[7thsea] Bert says, "Log on."

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "Welcome!"

[7thsea] GM says, "And I forgot to actually read the end of the transcript from last time, but:"

GM exclaims, "When last we left our intrepid adventurers!"

GM says, "They had discovered a Syrneth room under the lighthouse that told the end of the story from the past, where a Brasa had been taken over by a Voice From Beyond, and let them through, only to be locked into the room itself, preventing them from escaping further. Then after convincing a guard that Felipe might have suffered the same fate, they rushed down the caves, only to find that Felipe had escaped, with the destination of Sailor's Rest: a small rock/island/navigation hazard frequented by sirens."

GM says, "(which are actualy standard monsters in the 7th Sea setting.)"

GM says, "You're in the caves under the lighthouse, and your NPCs are mostly with you except Ricco who was keeping watch somewhere."

DonMiguel says, "I don't think we could swim to Sailor's Rest in this weather. We'll need a boat of our own."

[7thsea] GM says, "Looks like I didn't say what XP you got, but let's go with 3, since the key featured again in the story."

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "Do I own any boats that would be conveniently docked?"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "(Also, yay.)"

[7thsea] GM says, "I'm going to say no, at least nothing that's currently moored here in town."

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "Also, according to my notes, that's exactly what you said last time, after the transcript was closed."

[7thsea] GM says, "Oh, ha."

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "I thought I remembered saying something about that!"

DonMiguel asks (of Floriana), "I don't suppose your family has anything handy we could use by the lighthouse?"

Floriana says, "We have the rowboat we use for rescues. I think your friend Johann used it last time. But it also seems small for a trip that far."

DonMiguel says, "Especially if we wanted all of us to fit in it at once."

Floriana says, "Well, if you're looking for a boat, we do have a harbor."

DonMiguel nods. "Let's head there, then."

Tristand says, "How good are you at sailing? We'd need an excellent captain in this weather."

[Crows-Nest] Talbert says, "Harboring rebels, eh"

[Crows-Nest] Talbert asks, "Are you shore about that?"

[Crows-Nest] GM says, "Good 'reef."

[Crows-Nest] Talbert says, "I sea what you did there"

DonMiguel says, "I've done a little bit, when I was younger. But not much."

Talbert says, "That's more than can be said for me"

GM says, "You continue your discussion as you make your way out of the caves, back up through the lighthouse. The lighthouse is shining away, and the wind and rain are terrible--as bad as you've ever seen."

DonMiguel asks, "Do you think the evil forces that are at work are responsible for this weather, as well?"

[Crows-Nest] GM says, "If by 'evil forces' you mean 'the GM', then I can assure you it is so."

[Crows-Nest] DonMiguel says, "Hee."

[Crows-Nest] Penelope says, "Ha"

[Crows-Nest] DonMiguel exclaims, "But it's a Saturday! He's not at work!"

[Crows-Nest] Talbert says, "GM stands for Great Malefactor"

DonMiguel continues on foot to the harbor, through the wind and rain and mud.

[Crows-Nest] DonMiguel says, "(Oh, wait. No! We have horses, don't we?)"

Tristand asks (of group), "Are there any captains you know that owe you a favor?"

[Crows-Nest] Penelope sings on the way, "Can't go over it. Can't go under it. We'll just have to go THROUGH it."

DonMiguel continues on horseback to the harbor, grateful that he's not trudging through the mud.

[Crows-Nest] GM says, "You do! You ditched them at the caves, but you can retrieve them."

[Crows-Nest] Talbert says (to Penelope), "yay"

[7thsea] GM says, "(Note: there is indeed a captain you know from session 8)"

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "The one whose ship was destroyed in the storm?"

[7thsea] GM says, "The very one! Which kept him in town ;-)"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "Hee."

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "Does he have a name?"

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "Captain Smith!"

[7thsea] GM says, "Offstage, you found he and his crew a place to hang out, and he's been trying (thus far unsuccessfully) to get a new ship so he can go out smuggling again."

Ricco rides up to the group, sees that Penelope seems to be unharmed, and nods to everyone.

DonMiguel goes to the inn near the harbor where the captain was staying and knocks on his door. "Captain Smith! It's Miguel Aldana."

Captain_Smith flings open the door. "Ahoy! Good to see a friendly face again!"

Captain_Smith exclaims, "Thank goodness we're not out on the water today, enh? Even worse than the day we crashed!"

DonMiguel says, "Ah, well... about that."

Captain_Smith claps you on the shoulder. "Ha! Good one."

DonMiguel says, "We were just about to head to the harbormaster to see if there were a boat we could take out. You see, we have some very urgent business at Sailor's Rest and no means to get there."

Captain_Smith chuckles. "Wait until the storm blows by, is my suggestion! There's not a captain alive (well, apart from me, maybe) that could manage that in this weather."

Captain_Smith pauses, sees your soaked clothes and serious expressions. "Oh. Oh, no."

DonMiguel says, "That would be the wise choice, but unfortunately, needs must when Legion sails. And I fear that may literally be the case today."

[Crows-Nest] Penelope says, "Oh, *yes*, Captain Smith."

Captain_Smith says, "Legion, hunh? Wow, you're making this sound better and better."

DonMiguel says, "Of course, if you and your crew were able to help us, I could pay you appropriately given the risks involved."

Captain_Smith says, "Well, look. You get me a sturdy boat, and I'll see what I can do. You saved our lives, so it's only fair that you ask me to throw it away again. But I'm not risking my crew out there. Get me something small, be ready to work, and I'll do what I can."

DonMiguel says, "Thank you! You have my gratitude. We'll be at the harbor. I'll see you there."

Captain_Smith shakes his head. "Good luck!"

GM exclaims, "And, zhoop, to the harbor!"

GM says, "The harbor is awash with activity, which surprises you at first, since it's the middle of the night, but then you realize that the storm has increased to such ferocity that many of the ships are in danger of being sunk right at the piers. Sailors and soldiers are scrambling everywhere, furling sails, bailing ships, taking everything that isn't tied down and, well, tying it down."

GM says, "Then Penelope spots a lone figure at the end of the main pier. Activity, wind, and waves swirl around him, but he stands, unmoving, seeming uncaring, staring out at the waves. You take a step towards him and recognize him: it's Fulgencio."

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "(AFK a moment.)"

[7thsea] GM says, "(Fulgencio is, you will recall, the demolitionist who the Tide broke out of prison, and also Penelope's estranged husband.)"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Hm."

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "(Back.)"

DonMiguel hasn't noticed Fulgencio and is looking for the harbormaster.

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "(I figure that's Penelope's plot thread to follow, if she chooses.)"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "I'm thinking, I"m thinking!"

GM says (to DonMiguel), "Hey, there he is. He's helping the Garcias batten down their family boat."

[7thsea] Penelope asks, "I guess I can sweettalk him into telling us where Felipe is?"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Though he'll hold it over me forever"

[7thsea] GM says, "Ha."

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "Sure!"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "I guess he is, and I quote, "stashing some explosives in there""

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Or something"

DonMiguel says (to Harbormaster), "Good day to you, sir! Or as good as it can be, in this weather."

Harbormaster says, "Don Miguel! Good to see you, sir."

Harbormaster struggles a bit with formality, and then finally breaks.

Harbormaster says, "Look, grab that rope; we have to tie this down."

DonMiguel exclaims, "Of course!"

DonMiguel hurries to help out.

Talbert will also assist

GM says, "The Garcias shoot you grateful looks, but don't even have time to thank you officially; there's movement everywhere. Even their 11-year-old is bailing water over the side."

Penelope meanwhile, wanders in Fulgencio's direction.

DonMiguel asks (of Harbormaster), "Pity the poor fools who are forced to go out on the sea in a storm like this, aye?"

Fulgencio asks (of Penelope), "Oh, it's you. Come to see my dream die?"

[Crows-Nest] DonMiguel asks, "Ooh, yes. I assume that's like a drama die but much sparklier?"

Harbormaster says, "Pity the dead, more like. [tie, fasten, almost get swept overboard, lash]"

DonMiguel says, "Well, with a good enough captain, and with Theus on their side, perhaps they might make still make it through..."

DonMiguel has a serious expression on his face as he says that.

Penelope raises an eyebrow. "And what dream might that be, my [says something mockingly endearing in Vodacce]?"

Fulgencio points out into the harbor. A smallish pinnace strains against its anchor rope, half tipped over in the wind.

[7thsea] GM says (to Penelope), "https://www.colonialsociety.org/sites/default/files/csm-volume52/csm-volume52-p14_13.jpg"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Ya, I googled :D"

Fulgencio says, "It's about to capsize. And I can't get out there to save it. Farewell."

Penelope asks, "Is Felipe out there? Or just your precious explosives?"

Fulgencio says, "You remember our plan? Sailing the seven seas, going where the wind took us? I thought..."

Fulgencio says, "Oh, yeah, I guess. Sailor's Rest, I think."

Fulgencio says, "This is dumb when I say it out loud. I thought maybe if you saw I had the boat, you'd be mine again and we'd head out. Maybe steal other boats and trade up as we went."

Harbormaster says (to DonMiguel), "You know I can't forbid *you* to go out. Or the Montaignians. But anyone else, I'd forbid it. It can wait."

[7thsea] Penelope says, "I feel like I'm in a visual novel. "Respond meanly." "Respond empathetically"."

Penelope says, "Oh."

GM says (to Penelope), "Waves crash at the pier, soaking his pants again. He remains unmoved."

[7thsea] GM says, "Ha, yay."

[Crows-Nest] Talbert says, "that line about remaining unmoved by the soaking of his own pants just about ended me :D"

DonMiguel says (to Headmaster), "I wish that it could. I truly do."

Harbormaster says, "Cor. Well, you do what you have to."

Harbormaster nods to the Garcias, who, with your help, now have a reasonably-stowed boat.

Harbormaster hops off and moves to the next one.

Penelope says, "My duties, and my heart, lie here, in Castille."

DonMiguel follows the Harbormaster and continues to help. "But alas, I'm forced to ask: do you know if there's anyone who would be willing to rent out a boat for the day? My family will cover the cost of any damages, of course."

Penelope asks, "Speaking of which, I'm here to find--and save--Felipe. Can you help us?"

Penelope says, "It would mean a lot...."

[7thsea] Penelope says, "I don't actually know how he could help, but just gonna change that dirction of conversation :D"

Fulgencio says, "What, you want to take my boat after the storm's past? It'll be matchsticks by then."

Fulgencio exclaims, "And it's my boat, not yours!"

Penelope says, "We don't have time to wait until the storm is over!"

Penelope says, "That's the meaning of "help", Fulgencio. ugh!"

Fulgencio says, "You're going *now*? Ha, typical. Only thinking about yourself, and not of me. You'd just die out there, and all those favors you owe me would be gone."

[Setting the zoned flag.]

[Crows-Nest] Talbert says, "Take Fulgencio's boat keys, push him into the water"

Penelope says, "This is bigger than you and me. There is a great evil, and we need to stop it."

[Crows-Nest] Penelope says, "Aw"

Penelope explains, quickly but carefully

Fulgencio asks, "Penelope, if life has taught me anything, it's that you have to look out for yourself, because damned well nobody else is going to. You want to buy my boat, great. Write me a note, and I'll take it to Gianetta after you die; she probably has access to your assets in that case, no?"

[Crows-Nest] Penelope says, "Oh, that is so very tempting now"

Penelope says, "You're less than useless."

Harbormaster says (to DonMiguel), "I mean, 'expenses' in this case would mean 'buy them a new boat'. And you'd be dead, so it'd mean bugging your estate about it while they're trying to plan your funeral, which would be awkward."

Fulgencio says, "Maybe, but I'm the one with the boat."

DonMiguel asks, "That is a potential risk, I admit. Would it help if I signed a contract first?"

Fulgencio looks at the rising waves. "...for now, at least."

Harbormaster tosses his hands in the air. "I mean, I guess? Good luck, sir. I'll not stop you from going out, but I will say it was an honor knowing you."

Penelope asks, "What's your price then?"

Harbormaster hops on to another boat, and helps them bail.

Fulgencio names a price well above what the boat must have cost him, new.

DonMiguel asks, "Thanks. So I don't suppose you have any leads on someone who might be willing to help provide me with one?"

Penelope just gives him a skeptical look.

Penelope says, "You'll get *nothing* if I leave and it gets destroyed in the storm."

[Crows-Nest] DonMiguel says, "(As I try to drag out my failure long enough so that Penelope will have succeeded before I return with the bad news...)"

[Crows-Nest] GM exclaims, "Actually!"

Fulgencio tries to keep a straight face, until it cracks into a grin. "Damn, you're gorgeous when you're bargaining. Fine, give me a counter offer."

GM exclaims (at DonMiguel), "You hear someone call your names: "Don Miguel!" You turn and see an old woman waving at you with her cane, being escorted out here by Johann! Then the wind blows her shawl over her head, and she bats it down, annoyed. It's Abuela Maria, the woman you rescued back in scene 1!"

DonMiguel asks, "Abuela! Johann! What are you doing out here today?"

Abuela says, "Theus told me you need my help."

Penelope tosses out a number that is deliberately low, but also way more reasonable than his.

GM exclaims (at Penelope), "Roll something for bargaining!"

[Crows-Nest] GM says, "Wits or panache."

[7thsea] GM says, "(except here)"

Abuela says, "And then we have to go help the injured. But take these."

Abuela hands you a small bracelet, a flask, and a dagger.

DonMiguel smiles. "I certainly shan't disagree with the word of Theus -- thank you, my lady. What are these?"

Abuela says, "These will protect you from Legion. The bracelet makes it harder for him to see you. The flask will make you resistant to his sorcery, at least for a time. And the dagger will guide your hand to his heart."

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Ooh, would this be a good time to buy mooch? :D"

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "Sure!"

[7thsea] GM says, "It'll be a contested roll against Fulgencio:"

[7thsea] Fulgencio rolls 3k2: 7 8 1 | 15

DonMiguel says, "Wonders! Those may be exactly what we need today. I thank you again."

[7thsea] Penelope rolls 4k3: 2 2 5 3 | 10

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Ugh, ok, drama die or two, it is"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "I want this"

[Crows-Nest] DonMiguel says, "Theus ex machina."

[7thsea] Penelope says, "And I still have a bunch that I keep rolling over"

[7thsea] Penelope rolls 1k1: 5 | 5

[7thsea] Penelope asks, "What happens on a tie?"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "We also have sharing dice; feel free to ask if you want one."

[7thsea] GM says, "You get a reasonable deal; both of you are somewhat unhappy with the outcome."

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Just like our marriage!"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "Hee."

[7thsea] GM says, "ha ha ha"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "That seems fitting"

Abuela nods. "Remember, you're exactly where Theus needs you."

Johann_ says, "Good luck, Sir Miguel. I wish I could come with you, but others need me more, right now."

DonMiguel says (to Johann), "I understand. Keep them safe."

DonMiguel ties off the rope he was tightening.

DonMiguel says, "Well, I need to get back to the others."

Fulgencio finally agrees to a price he's not happy with, and throws up his arms. "Fine! It's yours."

Penelope grants Fulgencio a pretty smile. "Thank you."

Penelope turns to find Don Miguel to motion him over.

Fulgencio says, "Damn, girl."

DonMiguel returns to Penelope. "Well, I have good new and bad news."

Penelope says, "Me, too!"

DonMiguel says, "The good news is, we have blessings of Theus to guide us on our mission. The bad news is, I'm no closer to finding us a boat."

Penelope says, "The good news is I found us a boat. The bad news is that I was expecting you to pay." She also smiles at DM, fully knowing it won't work on him."

[7thsea] Penelope says, "I mean, the charm part. Not the paying part :D"

Fulgencio says, "Wait, *he's* paying? Right, that's <higher amount>."

Penelope turns and stares Fulgencio down.

Fulgencio exclaims, "Fine!"

DonMiguel says, "Well, well, well! It seems that today is going more smoothly than I'd thought."

DonMiguel tousles Fulgencio's hair in a patronizing way.

GM says, "A giant wave crests the pier and soaks all of you."

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Hahahaha"

GM says, "Fulgencio's boat creaks ominously in the harbor."

DonMiguel writes Fulgencio a rather damp note of payment that he he can redeem at the estate. It's a bit runny, but (barely) legible.

Fulgencio says, "Great. Good luck. And, uh,"

Fulgencio says (to Penelope), "Don't die. You still owe me."

Fulgencio heads inland.

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "How far out is the boat? Are we going to need a boat to get to the boat?"

[7thsea] GM says, "Or swim! But a rowboat is probably findable."

Captain_Smith arrives with an oilskin cloak and his dashing hat. "You guys find a boat yet?"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "So I'm assuming we're taking the three of us, Floriana, Ricco, and what's-his-name."

[7thsea] Captain_Smith says, "Tristand? And the captain."

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "And obviously the Captain. Is there anyone else we ought to have along? Esperanza?"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "(Yeah, Tristand.)"

[7thsea] Talbert asks, "Trist and who else?"

DonMiguel points out to sea at the bobbing mast. "Right there!"

Captain_Smith peers. 'Hmm. Solid. And about to sink. But I can make it work. I hope.'

DonMiguel exclaims, "Excellent!"

[7thsea] Talbert says, "AFK a second, be right back; carry on"

DonMiguel unties the rowboat that Fulgencio must have used to get here when he last disembarked from his boat and helps everyone over to -- "What did he say it was called, again?"

GM says, "Ricco harrumpts. "It's probably something like 'The Narcissus'."

[7thsea] GM says, "s/pt/ph/"

GM says, "So, you all pile into the boat and pull out! The waves are ridiculous, but Captain Smith keeps you pointed in the right direction. The only issue is that the wind is blowing south along the coast, and you're in danger of being blown south too far before you can reach the moored boat. So! Sailor/Brawn from everyone, TN 15, automatic raises for every 5 you beat the TN by. You collectively need 5 successes and/or raises to make it to the boat. Failures don't count against you."

[7thsea] GM says, "And if you want to use an NPCs brawn instead, you can do that."

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "Sailor is a skill -- which knack should apply?"

[7thsea] GM asks, "Oh, uh, anything you think might apply?"

[7thsea] GM asks, "Is there not a 'sailing' knack?"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "It's a Skill with Balance, Climbing, Knotwork, Rigging and Swimming as basic knacks."

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "(Actually, no: Swimming is an advanced knack.)"

[7thsea] GM says, "Ah, exciting. Let's say Balance, climbing, and rigging all would apply,then."

[7thsea] GM says, "Even if you have them from a different skillset."

[7thsea] Talbert says, "I've got climbing"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "Excellent. My Brawn isn't the best, but I'll go for Brawn + Climbing, and I'll throw in a DD."

[7thsea] DonMiguel rolls 5k3: 7 7 9 4 9 | 25

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "That's 3!"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Ok, I have balance, and I'll use Ricco's brawn, because somehow that make sense :D"

[7thsea] Talbert exclaims, "I'll roll climbing with my own Brawn!"

[7thsea] Penelope rolls 5k3: 4 6 7 10+8 1 | 31

[7thsea] GM says, "Wow, nice."

[7thsea] Talbert rolls 4k3: 10+1 7 1 1 | 19

[7thsea] Penelope says, "I just threw some more points into balance :)"

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "Probably a good idea!"

[7thsea] GM says, "You succeed masterfully! rp if you like."

Captain_Smith says, "Great job, crew! We'll need that again if we're going to survive."

Captain_Smith hops onto the ship, and reaches back to help everyone else aboard.

DonMiguel climbs halfway up the mast to make sure the sails stay tightly rigged against the wind.

Captain_Smith readies everything, then swaps out the anchor line to the rowboat, releasing the boat, which immediately spins in the wind, and skews south. You're all ready at your stations, and immediately dig into your roles!

[7thsea] GM says, "And everyone, pick a role! We need rowers, a navigator with the compass, someone at the rudder, and people doing odd jobs like bailing or securing stuff."

[7thsea] GM says, "(the NPCs can take the jobs you don't)"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "BRB"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "Hmm, I don't think any of my Scholar knacks are really relevant to navigation."

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "But if it uses Wits, I'd probably be more useful there than at something that uses Brawn."

[7thsea] GM asks, "I could see a scholar knack applying reasonably. Natural Philosophy is a sort of catch-all, isn't it?"

[7thsea] DonMiguel exclaims, "If you say so, sure!"

[7thsea] GM says, "Rudder is probably Finesse; rowing is Brawn; odd jobs are probably Panache or other."

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "Through my advanced knowledge of the principles of magnetism, I am the master of compasses."

[7thsea] GM says, "(but I'm happy to entertain alternative explanations for how you personally are attacking the job.)"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "(On the other hand, if Rudder is Finesse, I'd probably be the most effective there.)"

[7thsea] Talbert says, "I have the same Finesse as you but not much Wits"

[7thsea] Talbert says, "Floriana is the wittiest of us"

[7thsea] Talbert asks, "and probably can guide us through sorcery as well?"

[7thsea] GM asks, "Oh, wow, all three of you have Finesse 4. How did I not notice this earlier?"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Sorry, had to help get the kiddo ready. I'm back, and catching up."

[7thsea] GM says (to Talbert), "You could roll for Floriana instead of yourself for the sailing bit, if you like."

[7thsea] Talbert exclaims, "Sounds good!"

[7thsea] Penelope asks, "I can do odd jobs, I suppose?"

[7thsea] Penelope asks, "If Talbert is ruddering?"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "I think I've lost track of who's doing what."

[7thsea] GM says, "I think Talbert is taking Floriana on navigation, leaving the rudder open, if you want that."

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Ah, ok!"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "I'd thought DM was navigating, sorry"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "If Talbert/Floriana is navigating, and Penelope is ruddering, I'll do the odd jobs."

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Sounds good"

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "My Panache is as good as my Wits, after all. And I have all the basic sailor knacks at at least 1; can I use them for this?"

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "Absolutely!"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "And I suppose Ricco and Tristand are probably rowing."

[7thsea] GM says, "Sounds good."

GM says, "The first order of business is to not smash into the rocks to the south of the harbor and make it out to the open ocean. Everyone describe what you're doing, then roll your job vs. TN 15! Once again, we're looking for a total of 5 successes and/or raises."

Talbert 4k4 for Floriana, right?

[7thsea] Talbert says, "except here"

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "Yup!"

[7thsea] Talbert rolls 4k4: 9 1 6 6 | 22

[7thsea] Talbert says, "1 success + a rase"

[7thsea] DonMiguel rolls 4k3: 2 8 5 2 | 15

[7thsea] Talbert says, "*raise"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "A success, but barely."

[7thsea] Penelope rolls 4k4: 2 5 2 3 | 12

[7thsea] Talbert says, "We need two more-- oh"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "boo"

[7thsea] Talbert says, "Have a DD"

[7thsea] Penelope rolls 1k1: 4 | 4

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Thanks"

[7thsea] Talbert )

[7thsea] GM says, "That's four successes! Talbert is the closest to a fifth success."

[7thsea] Talbert says, "I'll spend a DD"

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "Is there any roll for the rowers, or are they just passive background NPC's?"

[7thsea] GM says, "They're passive at the moment."

[7thsea] Talbert rolls 1k1: 8 | 8

[7thsea] Talbert exclaims, "That's a fifth success!"

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "Which gives you two more! Everyone rp what you did!"

DonMiguel is up in the nest spotting rocks with a spyglass and shouting down to the others what he sees.

Talbert says (to Floriana), "I know you can find the path, lead the boat to safety. Just like you did when I was in that portal."

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Oh, I bet I could have used keen senses there, to better hear navigation through the storm :D"

[7thsea] GM says, "Heh, sure! Next time ;-)"

[7thsea] GM says (to Penelope), "(Also, you're up for rp'ing)"

Penelope listens carefully to the others and turns the rudder to give us a wide-enough berth around rocks and such.

GM says, "And with that, you make the open sea! The storm rages around you, with waves towering over the side of your boat. The captain expertly steers you through them, so they only occasionally sweep over the deck, and then with enough advance warning that you can brace yourself first."

GM exclaims, "Navigation! Give me a roll, TN 15!"

[7thsea] Talbert asks, "Floriana again?"

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "Yup!"

[7thsea] Talbert rolls 4k4: 8 8 5 10+8 | 39

Captain_Smith listens as Floriana calls out the heading, and shakes his head. "But that... that means the wind isn't due south any more? Hell, OK."

[7thsea] Talbert says, "She's really good at this"

Captain_Smith exclaims, "We're going to have to spiral in to the island, everyone! And the wind's only going to get stronger as we do!"

[7thsea] GM says, "Everyone give me a something/endurance roll, TN 10! Again, we need 5 successes total as you all fight to stay on task. Floriana gets a 1k1 bonus from her previous fantastic navigation."

[7thsea] GM says, "(Keen senses can apply, as can any of Balance/rigging/knotwork)"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "(Resolve, I assume.)"

[7thsea] DonMiguel rolls 4k3: 3 7 5 10+6 | 28

[7thsea] GM says, "Oh, cripes, yes: resolve."

[7thsea] Penelope rolls 6k3: 10+8 3 1 3 8 9 | 35

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "Woo!"

[7thsea] Talbert rolls 3k3: 9 8 8 | 25

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "You are all amazingly resolute in the face of the storm! RP!"

DonMiguel runs from line to line, tightening any that are coming loose.

(From Talbert) Floriana is the flame that never goes out, fanned only brighter by the wind.

Penelope expertly maintains her balance, as she manuevers the rudder.

GM says, "It seems like you've been doing this for hours: endless waves and wind, with Floriana's piercing voice calling out headings, the captain calling out orders, the oars splashing in the water."

Floriana exclaims, "Oh! Look!"

Floriana points over the side of the ship, and you catch sight of a siren swimming past, then another.

DonMiguel exclaims, "We must be getting close!"

GM says, "The sirens call to each other over the waves, sounding a bit like https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=sv_Wh84VgG4"

GM says, "Then the captain calls out, "Hard to port! Brace yourselves!""

DonMiguel braces!

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "And everyone give me one more job roll, TN 15, aiming for 5 total!"

[7thsea] DonMiguel rolls 4k3: 9 4 2 4 | 17

[7thsea] Talbert rolls 4k4: 10+9 5 8 3 | 35

[7thsea] Penelope rolls 5k4: 1 3 7 10+9 8 | 37

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "Wow, perfect!"

[7thsea] Talbert says, "...maybe I should switch to Floriana permanently and NPCize Talbert :D"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "Hee."

GM exclaims, "You slice through a wall of wind that threatens to tear the ship apart, but each of you knows exactly what to do, and you burst through to a surprisingly clear patch of ocean, with Sailor's Rest dead ahead of you!"

GM says, "In the middle of the suddenly-calm waters, the dark small island in front of you--not much more than a large hill--is illuminated from above by a full moon, shining through a circular patch of sky, surrounded by the swirling clouds of the storm. You can tell by the line of mussels attached to the rocks at the island's edge that the water is much lower than it normally is. As you look for a place to land, the captain points--and there, dragged onto the rocky edge of the island, is a long metal contraption, glinting purple in the light of the moon off the waves. Nearby, a dark cavemouth, exposed by the low tide but now only partially flooded, beckons ominously."

GM says, "The sirens call to one another, disappointed that nobody fell overboard."

[Crows-Nest] Penelope whispers, dun dun dun, under her breath.

[Crows-Nest] GM says, "Hee"

[Crows-Nest] DonMiguel says, "(Is an overhead moon compatible with a low tide?)"

[Crows-Nest] GM says, "It is! I looked it up. A full moon means particularly high and particularly low tides."

DonMiguel says, "That contraption is probably Felipe's under-sea boat."

[Crows-Nest] DonMiguel exclaims, "Neat!"

DonMiguel says, "Which means that, unsurprisingly, he's already here."

DonMiguel asks, "I don't suppose anyone here has any skill at tracking?"

Captain_Smith says, "We're in the eye of the storm. It won't last forever, so do what you need to do quickly. I'll try to tie up the boat while you're gone, but I'd rather not be tied up when that wall hits us again."

Ricco grunts. "He's in the cave."

DonMiguel says, "Well, I can't argue with that."

[Crows-Nest] Penelope says, "Thank you, Captain. "Huh?" Not you. Captain Obvious over there."

DonMiguel disembarks and goes into the cave.

[Crows-Nest] GM says, "Ha"

[7thsea] GM asks, "Oh, hey: you have three artifacts, the bracelet, flask, and dagger. Who has which?"

[7thsea] DonMiguel exclaims, "Oh yeah!"

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "The flask helps resist the call of Legion, the dagger guides your hand, and what did the bracelet do again?"

[7thsea] GM says, "Hides you."

[7thsea] Talbert says, "Whoever has the lowest Resolve should have the flask"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "Given that Talbert was the one who had to resist the whispers before, it seems that dramatically he's the most likely to have to again."

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "(My Resolve is 3.)"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "(Same)"

[7thsea] Talbert says, "(So is mine)"

[7thsea] Talbert says, "(Wow)"

[7thsea] Talbert says, "(The power of 3!)"

[7thsea] GM asks, "I guess two of you spent XP to increase resolve?"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "I think I did, come to think of it."

[7thsea] GM says, "Excellent."

[7thsea] Penelope says, "I did, yeah"

[7thsea] Talbert says, "Then whatever is narratively appropriate"

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "Which sounds like it's you!"

[7thsea] Talbert exclaims, "Alright!"

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "Does anyone have Attack (Knife)?"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "I actually do, yes."

[7thsea] Penelope says, "I was thinking that"

[7thsea] GM says, "If you want to down it now, it'll last through any encounter you may or may not experince on this island."

[7thsea] DonMiguel says (to Penelope), "Then it probably makes sense for you to have the dagger."

[7thsea] DonMiguel exclaims, "And I guess it also makes sense for the spy to be the one who is hidden!"

[7thsea] GM says, "Leaving the bracelet for Don (or an NPC)"

[7thsea] GM says, "(or, yeah, you can double up)"

DonMiguel distributes the items from Abuela Maria an slips on the bracelet.

[7thsea] DonMiguel says (to GM), "No, no. Three items and three PC's. Narratively, they must be one-to-one."

[Crows-Nest] DonMiguel says, "We can leave Susan's Horn with Tristand in case he ever needs to summon us back to Narnia."

GM says (to DonM), "As you slip on the bracelet, you feel a little lighter, and the moon and stars seem to shine slightly brighter than they had a second ago."

GM says (to Penelope), "As you grip the knife, you feel a slight draw into the cave in front of you."

Penelope asks, "Onward?"

[Crows-Nest] Penelope says, "haha"

GM says (to Talbert), "And as you down the flask (assuming you down the flask), it tastes amazing, and you feel warmth spread throughout your body, and your skin prickles slightly."

GM says, "And, you make your way into the cave."

GM says, "As you make your way into the cave, you struggle to think what it reminds you of. It's too smooth and shaped in places to be hollowed out naturally, but too uneven and irregular to be carved, at least by any human architect."

Talbert says, "I have a good feeling about this."

GM says, "'It's like a tumor,' Ricco quietly intones, and you realize that's what it reminded you of-- organic, unregulated growth, in reverse, as if the tunnel itself is the cancerous growth into the heart of the island."

GM says, "You traipse through the shallow water, taking your time to ensure your footing, and trying not to make *too* much noise as you proceed."

[7thsea] GM says, "Assuming Don is in front: give me a stealth roll, with a +1k1, vs. TN 20."

DonMiguel trusts Penelope's dagger to lead the way.

[7thsea] GM says, "(there's not any options here; it's just a tunnel.)"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "By nudging you in the back with it :D"

[7thsea] DonMiguel rolls 8k5: 7 10+10+5 5 9 6 9 10+10+9 9 | 81

[7thsea] Penelope says, "HOLY"

[Crows-Nest] DonMiguel asks, "Will that be sufficient?"

[7thsea] GM says (to DonMiguel), "You, uh, succeed amazingly."

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "rp!"

DonMiguel's footsteps make no sound on the smooth cave floor, and he carries no lantern, trusting his other senses to detect the path in front of him.

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "Also, I apologize for using up all of the explosions for the rest of the session."

GM says, "Don is so good at this that the rest of you learn from his example, stepping exactly where the least noise would give you away."

GM says, "After a few turns, you start to hear an awful irregular chittering and wet splattering sound, that sets your teeth on edge. Talbert, a shiver of recognition runs up your spine. It feels like the memories of a bad dream."

Talbert says, "I take back what I said earlier"

Talbert says, "I have a *bad* feeling about this"

DonMiguel keeps going forward. It's the only option.

GM says (to Talbert), "You get the vague sense that the sounds are supposed to be speech, and half-remembered meaning trickles into the back of your head from random bits of sounds. "...long" "...patience" "...vessel" "...wretched""

[7thsea] Talbert asks, "I'm the only one understanding this, right?"

GM says (to DonM), "Meanwhile, you reach the final turn before slight lights ahead, and find the perfect place to peek around the edge without being seen."

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "Correct!"

DonMiguel peeks around the edge without being seen.

GM says, "The cave opens up to a larger room, with veins of glowing coral running in random patterns on the walls, slightly illuminating the room in a dim blue. Odd shapes are placed throughout the room, some slightly glowing the same purple as the lights in the room under the lighthouse."

GM says, "The dominating feature of the room, however, is a giant, writhing, bloody portal, much more solid and 'real' looking than the Porte you've seen before, that occupies the entirety of the far wall. Water laps at its base, creating a minor current of water through it, even as the edges of the water here turn red in the dripping blood"

GM says, "Two figures cast irregular shadows on the wall of the room. The first is a humanoid with a giant lobster claw, which with a start you recognize as Lord Forte, the arm he sliced off now replaced. The remains of his uniform hang in tatters around his bulked-up body, and he stands in place, swaying slightly, massive shoulders hunched over his torso."

GM says, "The second is a creature that looks like some sort of aquatic chimera: a face like a giant shrimp, with four eyes on short stalks, and a mass of feelers writhing around its maw, with three in particular seemingly functioning as hands and arms. Its body is vaguely mollusk-like, with a curled spiral shell covering its body. It moves around on tentacles that spread out from a single trunk and disappear into the dark shallow water. It stands near some sort of device that reminds you of the one in the lighthouse, but this one looks grown instead of fashioned. As you watch, it turns a knob, and an unearthly shriek starts up, rising and falling in a six-second repeat. It pushes a few more buttons, and pulls back."

[7thsea] GM says, "</description>"

[7thsea] GM says, "(also, welcome to the Halloween episode of 7th Sea ;-)"

[7thsea] Talbert exclaims, "Yay!"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "Ha."

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "So we don't see anyone *recognizable* as Felipe, right?"

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "Also, has there been water in the rest of the cave, or just here?"

[7thsea] GM exclaims (at DonM), "Give me a Notice, TN 10!"

[7thsea] GM says, "There's been water the whole time, yeah."

[7thsea] DonMiguel rolls 3k3: 2 9 10+9 | 30

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "And do we see through the portal, or is it more like a wall of opaque blood?"

GM says (to DonM), "Oh, hey--there, hunched in the corner, is another figure with Felipe's build."

GM asks (of DonM), "There are vague shadows through the portal, tinged red and black. It sort of seems like... clouds? Or a fog, perhaps?"

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "Is the chimera missing an ear?"

GM asks (of Talbert), "The shriek is grating, and hard to listen to--do you try to block it out, or try to understand it?"

[7thsea] GM says (to DonM), "You don't think so, no."

[7thsea] GM says, "Not that you're quite sure where an ear would be on a shrimp's head."

Talbert will try to figure it out! He's reckless!

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "(The ear is what the note said the guy from generations ago thought he cut off, right?)"

GM says (to Talbert), "You open your mind to the shriek, and it grates on your very soul, though the warmth from the flask helps a bit. You vaguely understand "COME!" and "OPEN!"."

[7thsea] GM says, "Right! How about another Notice to try to figure out where the 'ear' would be on it, TN 15 again."

[7thsea] DonMiguel rolls 3k3: 4 10+8 2 | 24

GM says (to Talbert), "However, the sounds damages you! You take:"

[7thsea] GM rolls 1k1: 10+2 | 12

[7thsea] GM says, "12 flesh wounds! Resist with Resolve, +1k1 from the flask."

[7thsea] Talbert rolls 4k4: 6 7 9 1 | 23

GM also tosses Talbert a drama die for being Reckless.

[7thsea] GM says, "You don't take a dramatic wound! But you still have the 12, for now. You feel like it'll fade in a bit."

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "(Also, what *was* the name of the guy from generations ago, again?)"

[7thsea] Talbert says, "Wait, I had 11 from earlier so the TN was 23 exactly"

[7thsea] GM says, "Oh, the 11 from earlier went away at the scene break, happily."

[7thsea] GM says, "(as did anyone else's flesh wounds.)"

[7thsea] GM asks, "So! Plans? Actions?"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Hm (sorry, zoned out there for a moment)"

[7thsea] GM says, "np"

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "Anything on the Notice to Detect Ear?"

Talbert whispers, 'That sound... they're calling to Legion... telling them to come out through the portal...'

[7thsea] GM says, "Oh, right. You pinpoint a spot you'd call 'the ear'. Your knowledge of animal anatomy helps."

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "Does it look like anything has been cut off?"

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "It does not!"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "Hmm."

DonMiguel eases back and relates what he's seen to the others.

DonMiguel says, "...I'm not sure whether or not this creature is the same one that we read about in the note. If it is, that means it can regrow itself after being injured. If it's not, that means the other one might still be possessing Felipe."

[7thsea] Penelope says, "It just says "blow to ear", which I took to mean like.. bashed."

DonMiguel says, "I was hoping that we might get here in time to prevent them from opening the portal. But now that that's already begun, I wonder if there's anything we can do to close it."

[7thsea] DonMiguel exclaims, "Oh, whoops!"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "Sorry, my bad memory."

[7thsea] Penelope says, "I had to go look, because I was like "hm??""

[7thsea] Penelope says, "I'm sure it had a hell of a headache afterwards, but probably not one that lasts *this* long :)"

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks (of GM), "Can I use Theology to try to figure out a way to close the portal?"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says (to Penelope), "Hee."

[7thsea] GM says (to DonM), "You'd get more information if you were closer, but based on what you know, give me a theology/wits roll, TN 25."

[7thsea] DonMiguel rolls 4k3: 4 7 9 1 | 20

DonMiguel says, "I'm going to try to get closer."

GM exclaims (at DonM), "Stealth/finesse, +1k1, TN 25!"

DonMiguel tries to get closer.

[7thsea] DonMiguel rolls 8k5: 6 5 6 2 6 8 2 6 | 32

GM says, "You carefully pad past the corner, staying in the shadows, and bracing yourself against the wall. You ease into position right behind a large device/protrusion at the edge of the cave."

GM says, "From here, you can see Felipe much more clearly--he has his head in his hands. You also see another object on the wall that looks like the sleeve-ish thing on the wall in the room under the lighthouse. But this one has the stone disc in it, and it's making a humming sound."

GM says, "Shrimp head slithers over to the portal, peering through it. Forte remains in position, still swaying slightly."

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "Can I reasonably infer that this is a dejected post-possession Felipe, rather than the Legion-infused version?"

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "That seems reasonable, yes!"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "I'm extremely tempted to just try to grab the disc or to break the thing it's attached to."

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "OOC: would the other players be comfortable with me doing that?"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Do it. Do it."

DonMiguel tries to grab the disc!

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "Hooray!"

[7thsea] GM asks, "Um, OK, timing. We're half an hour from our end time. The most reasonable time for a break would be right now, and finish next time. Does that seem better than trying to cram everything into this next half hour?"

[Crows-Nest] (from Penelope) GM says, "The cave crumbles around you. End of Arc."

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "Yeah."

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Sure"

[7thsea] Talbert says, "I think we need another session to wrap this arc, definitely"

[7thsea] Talbert says, "as opposed to half an hour"

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "OK, let's do the Don Dash as the last thing that happens!"

[7thsea] Talbert exclaims, "Woo!"

[Crows-Nest] DonMiguel asks (of Penelope), "Next session, we meet a friendly little dragon floating in the void?"

[Crows-Nest] GM exclaims, "Ha!"

[Crows-Nest] Talbert says, "Awww"

[Crows-Nest] Penelope says, "Hehe"

[Crows-Nest] Talbert says, "And a blue tiefling"

GM exclaims (at DonM), "Give me some sort of Finesse roll (running?), TN 20!"

[7thsea] GM says, "Oh, I think it's Sprinting."

[7thsea] DonMiguel rolls 5k4: 3 2 10+2 7 7 | 29

[7thsea] DonMiguel exclaims, "It is!"

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "You make it! rp!"

DonMiguel gets the disc out, and before anyone -- or anything -- has time to react, he's sprinting back through the caves, past his (unwarned) companions!

[7thsea] GM says, "(and the disc is just sitting there, so it's removable.)"

DonMiguel exclaims, "I got it! I don't know what's going to happen now, but I've got it!"

Penelope blinks for a moment as DM runs away. She turns to look back at the portal, and...

GM says, "Felipe's head jerks up in surprise, and the two other figures turn to the sudden sound of splashing! More chittering, and Talbert hears "GET HIM!""

GM says, "The portal behind them flickers, and starts to contract, but slowly."

GM exclaims, "And, </scene>!"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Woo"

[Crows-Nest] Talbert says, "Woohoo"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "Yay."

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "I'm not sure whether or not I'm hoping that Fulgencio's boat survives the finale."

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "(I guess it's technically our boat now.)"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "It's your boat now!"

GM exclaims, "Tune in next time for the exciting finale!"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Timing"

[7thsea] Talbert exclaims, "The fun-ale!"

[7thsea] DonMiguel exclaims (at GM), "It's going great so far!"

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "Yay!"

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks (of Peregrine), "How are you for November?"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "(Hint http://slingergame.wikidot.com/schedule hint)"

[7thsea] GM says, "Also, everyone have 3 xp, with the extra from Penelope's backstory ;-)"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "Yay."

[7thsea] Talbert exclaims (at DonMiguel), "Probably OK!"

[7thsea] GM says, "(and your flesh wounds go away again)"

[7thsea] Talbert exclaims, "Woo!"

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks (of GM), "Are you thinking that this is something you're likely to return to later on with a new story, or is this probably wrapping up Los Vagos altogether?"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "lps is both available and not available on November 12"

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "I could do either!"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "(I am wondering if I should be using up all my XP or saving them if I don't have anything pressing to spend them on.)"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "Awesome, I needed more XP to maybe level up my knife skills before I might need to stab someone."

[7thsea] GM asks (of DonM), "You can spend it mid-session if you like, if the opportunity arises?"

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "True."

[7thsea] DonMiguel asks, "It's 15 to raise a Trait to 3, right?"

[7thsea] GM says, "Correct."

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "If I raise Brawn now, I'll have an extra DD next time. I'm doing it."

[7thsea] GM says, "I do have a few ideas for the next adventure, though one of them was 'help Johann with his vampires'."

[7thsea] DonMiguel says, "Aw."

[7thsea] GM says, "So all we need for that is for him to break up with his girlfriend, and all will be well."

[7thsea] GM says, "(or, you know, for that relationship to relax slightly from spending every waking minute together to having a bit more space ;-)"

[7thsea] Penelope says, "heh"

[7thsea] GM asks, "Any other questions/comments?"

npc1 goes home.

npc1 has disconnected.

npc2 goes home.

npc2 has disconnected.

[7thsea] DonMiguel exclaims, "I don't think so!"

[7thsea] GM exclaims, "Well, congrats everyone, and thanks again!"

[7thsea] DonMiguel exclaims, "Thank *you*!"

[7thsea] Talbert says, "Thank you :) goofnight"