Triple Ace Games

[mindseye]

The following are excerpts from Bene, the cabin boy's log.

First session.

Day 3
I'm on a cloud skiff, the Chance, captained by Karr Luckfinder. We are three days out of Gateway, hired by a merchant Thomas Hawke. We are to investigate the wreck of the Raven, a vessel that has gone missing. It carried Hawke's son. My companions are Roc, a Drakin sorcerer who is apparently one of what they call a Chosen; Tavian, an Elf who seems to know his way about a ship; Corryna, a rat Wilding who's a priest of Alpha.

Day 4
Land Ho! We spotted a small island that with a wreck on it. Apparently a tower fell on the Raven, trapping it. Tavian, Roc, Corryna and I took the island hopper to the island. We found barnacle apes there and had to fight them to get ashore. Upon entering the remains of the Raven, we found more barnacle apes. A hole in the hull of the ship led into the tower it had crashed into. In the tower we found a gristly puppeteer and his 4 skeletons. My brave and mighty actions slew the great beast with a mighty thrust of my dagger! One of the skeletons wore raven gloves. We collected that skeleton to return to the Merchant Hawke. We also found a suit of chain that was surprisingly light. I took to wearing that.

Day 5
I'm not sure if I believe all that happened today. First we were visited by a bright light that claimed to be Lightbringer, only he called himself the Oceanus. He tasked us with finding a number of Artifacts of the Souls, including: The fuel that burns in the Queen's barge, The armor of Orcbane, Festival's harp, ignored by my( Oceanius, a.k.a. Lightbringer's) followers, The hammer of the damned dwarf, and The raven staff.

"Recover them all, for soon the Shield will fail again.  Begin your quest by seeking Joeseth Truthbearer in Gateway... Those were the words he spoke, I will never forget. Right after that, Karr, the captain, went glowmad on us and transformed into an ogre. Again my mighty fortitude, and trusty blade carried the day as with the support of my courageous companions, I slew the ogre. It's at this point I began calling my blade Slayer.

Day 7
We arrive back at Gateway, and returned the gloves to Hawke. We received the title to the Chance as it was owned by Karr, and with him gone . . . . We renamed it the Oceanus, and Tavian is our captain. I bought another flintlock pistol, to reduce the number of times I have to reload in a firefight.
_________________
Have a Happy,
Mindseye

I am searching for
Someone, Somewhere, but I do
Not know who or where

[mindseye]

Second Session

Day 9
We're back out on the skies again. This time we're looking for a ruby with a gold chain for a Warren Bryce. We're to be paid 2900 cogs for the recovery. Corryna does not report in time for casting off, and is left behind.

Day 10
We encountered a Madness Hulk (a Voider's ship), but were able to escape due to the actions of our fearless captain.

Day 12
The Madness Hulk caught up to us, but we were able to give it the slip again. I hope the third time isn't a charm for them!

Day 15
There's too much traffic out here! Today we crossed paths with a Death Barge. Pirates or Raiders, I could handle, but these religious fanatics give me the creeps.

Day 17
Made it to the island where the ruby was abandoned. We encountered a wind elemental, and it got the better of Tavian (with the help of Roc and a poorly aimed gout of flame), so I took out Slayer and slew the beast. Need to keep an eye on Roc and stay out of her field of fire! Further exploration turned up grotesques, which were quickly dispatched. Finally we found a wyrmspawn trying to tear it's way into a cave. After a mighty battle in which the captain appeared to fall, Roc killed the monster. In the cave we found a human female, a priestess of the Lifemother. She was Ruby by name, and had a golden chain around her neck. She had stayed on the island to tend a barnacle ape cub, and was left behind when the others left. She was able to heal the captain of some of his injuries, but not all. We stayed on the island to recuperate while he healed.

Day 27
Left the island for Gateway, with Ruby in tow.

Day 32
Encountered a rock field. Tavian tried to pilot us through it, but after a few close calls we turned back and went around. Captain figures this will add about two days to our trip back.

Day 33
Encountered a Merchant ship, the Time Bandit, but it turned away before we could hail it.

Day 40
Just before entering Gateway, we are set upon by an Elven Patrol sloop of Oakthorns. It appears they are searching for Boughbreakers that committed murder while releasing Wildlings from Heartland. They searched the ship and let us go. Later in the day, we heard they caused a ruckus in Gateway, guess they found their elf. After collecting our reward for Ruby's safe return, she convinced her father that adventuring with an experienced crew he could trust was safer than having her run off with the first to give her passage. She signs on the crew as medic.
_________________
Have a Happy,
Mindseye

I am searching for
Someone, Somewhere, but I do
Not know who or where

[TAG Dave]

Nice!

Did I miss the bit where you mentioned what race the cabin boy is?
_________________
Cheers
Dave

[mindseye]

D'oh!

Knew I forgot something. The cablin Boy is a Glowborn, about 11 or 12, Goblins aren't big on birthdays.
_________________
Have a Happy,
Mindseye

I am searching for
Someone, Somewhere, but I do
Not know who or where

[mindseye]

The next installment of Cabin Boy's Log will make more sense with the inclusion of his backstory.

[mindseye]

Third session!

Day 41
Tavian made arrangements to have the ship repaired. The rest of the crew and I took a room at Big Mike's, a fair inn.

Day 43
Received a tip from Big Mike himself about the whereabouts of Joeseth Truthbringer. Apparently, he spends much of his time at the God's Parade, kind of a temple quarter in Gateway. We found a wind priest who knew Truthbringer, but unfortunately our quarry was not there. Truthbringer has a sloop “Forgotten Purpose” that he sails the skies in occasionally. He probably out retrieving dead bodies to keep them out of the hands of the Bright Cabal. Tavian decided our time would be better spent pursuing other goals at this time.

Day 44
While out shopping with Ruby, I realized that she did not wear any armor. While I understand her not wanting to harm others I saw no reason for her to become harmed while trying to heal myself or my companions, for want of armor. I bought her a set of leathers, which she accepted.

Day 50
We found Corryna today! After missing the boat the last time we left port, she had been staying at the Windblown Flotsam. As it turns out the proprietors have a job for us. Jarle and Jeche are Boughbreakers and want us to transport weapons to their allies in Heartland. We are supposed to take the shipment and return with the letter and token we will be given on delivery. Our contact is Gareth at Market Garden in Roseport, the only port on Heartland open to non-elves. Tavian agrees to their terms. They suggest getting the ship fitted with a secret compartment to hide the shipment in. Tavian also arranges for a consignment of books for legitimate transport to Heartland as a cover for our voyage.

Day 51
A fellow by the name of Jared Nilsenn installed the secret compartment on the Oceanus. Received both shipments later that day.

Day 52
I got shot today! We were headed back to the ship with Ruby after she said her goodbyes to her father. In the docks district a shot rang out and hit my armor. It hurt a lot, but didn't really do any damage. Tavian's sharp eye spotted smoke from the third story window of a nearby run down building. We rushed to the third floor, but he had escaped in a skysail before we could get a bead on him. Roc found a letter he left for me. It read:

"My hat, it has three corners
Three corners has my hat
And had it not three corners,
It would not be my hat..."

And indeed, while the hat may be yours, be aware that your life is no longer your own. The muses have spoken, and your song shall soon become a dirge. We shall meet again soon, and when we do, in Festival's name I shall end your pitiful song.

In service to The Requiem,
The Wolf

I can hardly believe it! The songpriest who named me, and gave me my hat in the first place wants me dead? Is this all over the hat? According to Tavian, the Requiem don't really need a reason, at least one that makes sense to those outside the Requiem, to kill someone. I just feel very insignificant to have attracted their attention.

After all of the excitement, we did finally shove off for Heartland with our illicit cargo safely stowed away.


Day 64
It's been an uneventful time so far on this voyage. We spotted a sloop harvesting but didn't make contact.

Day 76
Today we spotted the Grey Falcon, looked to be a cargo frigate on it's way through the skies. We gave each other wide berths, and continued on our separate ways.

Day 82
On long voyages like this, boredom can become a real problem. Luckily Captain Tavian has a great collection of stories to regale us that makes the time go by more pleasurably. We were boarded by an Oakthorn vessel today. The Captain considered running through a rock field to try and give them the slip, but decided it was too risky to be worth the chance. Considering our business, you can believe that made us sweat! As the Oakthorns hailed us, Corryna attempted to hid over the edge of the boat so as to avoid the Oakthorns (not that I can blame her) but was spotted. They didn't seem to mind her presence as long as Captain Tavian acted as if Corryna were his property. Churns my stomach to think it, but the Oakthorns bought it, so all is well that ends well. Well, they insisted on looking through the books we were bringing in. That's when I found out that the Captain had arranged for us to be transporting Marital Bliss Instruction Manuals. The Oakthorns let us pass on that, and bundled back onto their ship. Later that night I slipped down to the hold to give the Manuals a further inspection.

Day 84
Began sketching some of the illustrations from the Manuals onto the hull of the Oceanus, for further study later. Ruby caught me down there, but strangely seemed more amused than mortified by my curiosity. I'll never understand human females!

Day 104
A council ship almost ran into us, but the Captain's sure hand at the helm kept us safe. We made land at Roseport today. Almost the entire wall space of the main hold is covered with various sketches.

Day 105
We received permission to remain on board the Oceanus while in port. We found Gareth and arranged for him to take shipment. Received the token and letter for Jarle and Jeche. Gareth also had another job for us, if we were interested. He had a group of Wildlings that he wanted us to take to Timber. Tavian agreed, and we officially began smuggling slaves to freedom.

Day 112
Over the last week, we managed to offload those Manuals to a local scholar while we made final arrangements to get our cargo aboard and out of Heartland. During the sleep cycle, the Wildlings were brought aboard, for all the world looking like slave sailors. We were hassled by a Leafwarden and a patrol of Oakthorns, but the Captain's smooth persuasion sent them on their way soon enough. With our cargo on board, we made for sky.

Day 124
We exchanged fire with a pirate frigate. They had us out numbered, but my cool hand at the cannon managed to start a fire on board their vessel that allowed the Captain to gain enough of a lead to lose them.

Day 138
Almost got ran down by an Ork barge. If they can't control them in the skies, they should just anchor the things to an island some where and stay out of everyone's way!

Day 143
When the Captain noticed boredom starting to overtake us again, he began telling us of a prior voyage where he had been attacked by glimmerwings. The knowledge he passed on to us then served us in good stead later that same day when the Oceanus was beset by a flock of glimmerwings. We were able to beat them off, but at times it seemed a near thing.

Day 151
We began running low on water today, but Ruby prayed to the Lifemother and the barrels filled with water. We'll never need to worry about water again. I think I love her!

Day 160
We made landfall in Timber today. We exchanged seals with the appropriate party, and disembarked the Wildlings as free creatures. Rooms were found at the Timber Hall, an average inn.
_________________
Have a Happy,
Mindseye

I am searching for
Someone, Somewhere, but I do
Not know who or where

[derfinsterling]

Reading your logfile makes me wish my group would meet more often!


_________________
Markus
The Sundered Skies Serial - full of spoilers!

[mindseye]

After the first month we're supposed to start alternating SS and Rippers. so the pace should slow down a bit.

Thanks for reading!
_________________
Have a Happy,
Mindseye

I am searching for
Someone, Somewhere, but I do
Not know who or where

[mindseye]

Long delayed, but never dreary, the return of the Cabin Boy's Log.



Day 161

I did a bad thing today. I was in the Ale Hall, a different hall from the one we were staying in, and I couldn't stop myself. This one guy's pack was slightly open while he was playing cards with his buddies. I wanted to know what was in it and I moved the flap to see inside. Just as I did, the guy started. He didn't notice me, but I didn't get a look inside, either. I don't know what came over me. I've been feeling achy and strange lately, but Ruby just calls it growing pains.

Captain got us a transport job hauling timber to Firsthome in the Draining Sea. Shipment goes to Glog Fireblood.

Before the nightcycle, I went out into the forests of Timber. It was the first time I had seen so many trees since Freedom Isle. It was snowing, and there was a white carpet all around. I came to a clearing with a stump in the middle and the most fascinating thing happened. A slate-gray hawk swooped down and landed on the stump. Mesmerized, I stepped forward, and it hopped a little to the side, but didn't fly away. I moved forward a little more, and it hopped again, but didn't leave. Once more, I stepped forward, and this time it flew, but to my surprise, he lit on my glove. I stroked his feathers, and he stayed. I chose to name him Cloud. When I got back to the ship and showed Ruby, she seemed very impressed with it.


Day 162

We set sail for the Draining Sea. I started training Cloud to do simple tricks, like picking up objects off the deck and playing fetch over the side of the ship.


Day 195

Ruby went overboard today. We were playing catch to pass the time and she went back against the railing just as the ship jerked, and toppled overboard. Luckily she was tied off, and we just had to haul her back up. Next time I get a chance, I'm going to get her a windcharm.


Day 213

We passed a trawling vessel today. Didn't get close enough to see her name. It's not much, but after weeks of nothing on the skies but the Captain's stories, anything different can be exciting.


Day 242

Today had enough excitement to fill my liver for quite a while. We encountered a Dwarven Pirate Frigate named "The Silver Lockwheel." Recognizing it as the ship of the infamous pirate Red Skull, Captain Tavian ordered us to engage them and board. I was manning the cannons with grapeshot in them. My first blast incapacitated six of their crew. A lucky shot! They got a shot off as well, causing some damage below decks. I tried shoot their captain with my pistol, but missed, so I closed with him for hand to hand. While I kept him occupied, Roc used magical bolts to knock him down. With their captain down, the rest of the pirate crew were mopped up quickly. We took control of their ship. Corryna noticed a friend, Vince, among the engineers that actually operated the ship, who had been roped into serving on the Red Skull's crew. The other engineers were named Bradley, Old Markus, Davyd, and Rick. They all agreed to stay on as crew for the Silver Lockwrench. They didn't much care who commanded the ship, as long as they kept her flying. Now we had a Pirate Captain, and 6 pirates captured, but no bounty license to profit from turning them in. When the Red Skull got rambunctious, Captain Tavian ordered him dangled overboard to keep the other pirates from getting the same idea. Ruby objected, saying it wasn't right, but Captain did it anyway, but did wrap him in a sleeping canvas to keep him from going glowmad.

Day 245

The Red Skull went glowmad today. We've been bringing the Red Skull up to give him water and such, and he had the sleeping canvas wrapped around him, but he'd been getting more irritable and unreasonable each time we hauled him up. Finally, he had transformed into a blinded, and we pitched him back overboard. On inspection, I noticed that the sleeping canvas he had been wrapped in had a tear in it that was letting the glow in. Whether it was there when he first was let down or not was impossible to tell. Ruby fell into a state of panic, asking the Lifemother for forgiveness and swearing she didn't know. She made penance but said she still didn't feel forgiven.


Day 252

We arrived in Firsthome today, towing the Silver Lockwrench. The pirates were released because without a bounty license, we would get no reward. We went to Grag's Den, Narg Grag, proprietor looking for Fireblood. Captain sold the wood for a good profit. One of the crew, Bradley, busted his knuckles in the engine room of the Lockwrench, and Ruby was able to heal it. When she realized the Lifemother was with her once again, she danced and shouted for joy.


Day 254

Captain had the Oceanus repaired, and when that was finished, sold it and the salvage we had found. He renamed the Silver Lockwrench the Oceanus's Will. I've decided looking in other people's pockets is a game. Don't really need anything, but it's fun to look. Haven't found anything interesting yet. Went shopping for ammo, but none was available.


Day 256

Well that didn' t go as planned. I got Ruby to go out on the ice with me as a day trip. I tried to explain to her how I felt about the ice, seeing as that's where I became glowborn and all. At first she seemed mildly interested, but as the trip wore on, I could tell she was no longer interested in my stories for today. We went back to Firsthome.


Day 259

The engineering crew pointed out to the Captain that it was time to pay. Fortunately we had more than enough out of the sale of the Oceanus to cover the expense. Ruby took me shopping today. She said I was growing into a young adult, and needed new clothes. As we were leaving to take the payment for the lumber back to Timber, we encountered a gang of orcs blocking our path to the Oceanus's Will. They demanded the payment for the lumber back. Apparently Glog Fireblood wants to have his lumber and his cogs, too! Captain Tavian disagreed with their bargaining practices, and we set upon them. I did well for myself, but Cloud has really taken a liking to fighting, he ripped one of the orcs eyes out! Once we whittled them down some, Roc got them in a burst, and the orcs went down. We got under steam as soon as possible. Headed back to Canopy to return the payment for the lumber.


Day 285

There was a fire in the engine room today. The quick actions of the crew put it out before it did much damage though.


Day 311

We encountered a small islet with a wreck on it. We found 3 Wildlings on it and offered them passage to the colony on Canopy. They accepted gratefully.


Day 326

We encountered a rock field that forced us two weeks out of our way. It's taking forever to get there!


Day 336

We made landfall at Canopy. I went with the Captain to deliver the money, while Corryna took the Wildlings to the colony. At the Windblown Flotsam, we saw a missing person poster that appeared to have Captain Tavian on it. Information would lead to a reward. The Captain gathered the poster and stuffed it in his pocket.
_________________
Have a Happy,
Mindseye

I am searching for
Someone, Somewhere, but I do
Not know who or where

[mindseye]

I know it took forever, but here it is!




Day 337

We set sail for Gateway. I've been wanting to get back for a while now.


Day 343

We passed a convoy from Plenty consisting of 4 frigates and 3 sloops.


Day 361

We crossed paths with the council ship The Enforcer to day. It was huge as to boggle the mind.


Day 369

Ruby's gotten bored, and it's put her in a mood again. I spent most of the day teaching Cloud to catch small items out of the air.


Day 379

We arrive in Gateway! I wasn't sure how Cloud would handle the crowds, I left him on his perch in my cabin. We went to the Windblown Flotsam to see Jeche & Jarle about the weapons smuggling job we did for them. I received a note from Ruby, inviting me to join her at her parents house and tell stories anytime that week. I went to Hawke's to ask about lockpicks, but he didn't have any. He did however have another windcharm which I purchased for Ruby.


Day 381

After dragging my feet for a couple of days, I finally went to the Bryce Manor. I found Lucius Maximus, The Wolf, waiting for me. We fought tooth and nail, but he escaped. He had taken Ruby and her father hostage, and sent the note to lure me in. He also mentioned that he'd killed the songpriest who'd given me my lucky hat. The watch interrupted the fight.


Day 386

We finally found Truthbringer. He did not know Oceanus, but asserted that the Bone Queen had corrupted the Rotting One. He wants us to smuggle ourselves onto the Soulflame using a potion to disguise us as zombies and disable the ship. Captain decided we're going to do it. I think he's crazy.


Day 387

Our Crew is watching the ship while we meet Joeseth on "The Forgotton Purpose" to go into the Shattered City.


Day 388

Encountered a rock field and sailed through it. Found a wreck to wait for the Soulflame on. We stay on it for a full cycle.


Day 389

The Soulflame appears and we start drinking the potion. It casts an illusion over our normal forms, and knocks us unconcious for a bit.. It also gives bad nightmares.We come to with zombies going through our stuff. We knock them down, regain our equipment, and made our way throught the ship. It had a lot of bone and scaly leather as a motif. Made out of the body of a dragon, as it were.Zombies led by a wraith stoke the furnace. Ghouls control the motion of the vessel by leavers. We open the furnace, and the dragonheart dissolves as the soul gains release. The ship starts to fall apart and the undead disintegrate. We pass a room of loot on our way out and grab stuff. We run for our escape. One of my pistols is transformed by something we find.


Day 391

We went around another rock field. Someone oughta squeeze them all together and make another island.


Day 395

Encountered a sloop named the Red Sylar investigating the ruins on an island.


Day 395

We arrive once again in Gateway.
_________________
Have a Happy,
Mindseye

I am searching for
Someone, Somewhere, but I do
Not know who or where

[HasidicEnforcer]

Do you need help with the Cabin Boy Logs? I am waiting patiently to see what you have written about the latest adventures!

[mindseye]

Much delayed, and finally completed, but this week's installment will be forthcoming shortly (hopefully before the next session!).


Day 396

We arrive once again in Gateway. As we returned to the Oceanus's Will, We find Old Markus regaling a beautiful lady with sailing stories. It turned out she was Miriam, Daughter to the Duke of Canopy, and she wanted to sign aboard as a marine. After asking her some questions, Captain Tavian hires her. As a crew we get rooms at the Flotsam Tavern for the night. Just as we are about to settle in, there is an explosion on the docks. We rush down there, fearing the worst. When we get there, it is apparent that the Oceanus's Will was the target. The hull seemed undamaged, but the propellers were all blown clean off. As if someone wanted to disable but permanently harm the vessel. I received a note indicating that the Wolf, was responsible, intending to keep me in port where he could get me. I mean to keep a low profile while we remain in port.


Day 397

The next day, Captain Tavian talks to Merchant Hawke about getting replacement parts in. It will take time to get the parts in but Hawke is willing to do it. He will even pay for the repairs if we are willing to accompany Captain Skiller on the Mirabell in search of the Ice Tower. Captain Tavian got ahold of Captain Skiller, and found that he has a map and a story. Wants us to accompany him to the Draining Sea on an expedition, for a share of the loot. He claims there's a water ocean up there. The only place I've seen as much water as he talks about is in my dreams. Skiller says that the heat of the Battlelord's wrath keeps the water wet, but I've been up there. There isn't any way it's that warm. Because of the expected water, he's taking a second craft, the Rosey.


Day 400

I decided that I wanted to see if Merchant Hawke had gotten any lockpicks in while we were away on our last voyage. I didn't want to walk the streets openly, so I asked Lady Miriam to come along with me. Anyone who saw us together would assume that she was shopping and that I was her servant. I left Cloud behind because that bird attracts nothing but attention in port. I carried my lucky hat in my bag so it was with me but not so prominent. I was in luck and he had some. Miriam and I met Ruby and the rest of the crew at the Windblown Flotsam for lunch. There was a nervous elven bard entertaining the crowd. He wasn't that bad a singer, but he probably should have waited until the crowd was more into their cups. Suddenly a bar fight erupts and the bard falls into our table. Ruby and I fall to the floor together under the table. I didn't see any reason to come out until the fight subsided. After the fight Corynna healed the bard of his wounds and found out his name was El Deer. I noted his complexion reminded me of buckwheat, so I took to calling him Bucky the Bard. We also found out that he was sailing with us on the Mirabell. It's going to be a long voyage.


Day 402

We set sail not a moment too soon. I'm so glad to be out of port. I don't think there's anywhere the Wolf could be hiding on this ship, and he went to too much trouble to keep me in port to be prepared to follow me out again so soon. The crew consistes of Captain Skiller, a pair of twin orcs named Volorg & Korug, 10 humans I who I can hardly tell apart. (they all look alike to me), our new friend, Bucky the Bard, a Cat wildling named Lean, who Captian Skiller called the crew's lucky charm. One of the humans intimated they had another name for him. Miriam appeared to get along very well with the crew and never seemed to be without a companion, at least until Skiller or Tavian called them all back to their duties.


Day 412

We sighted two Death Barges today. As one closed in, Miriam managed to blow most of their crew to flinders with one shot. After that, they'd gotten their fill of fighting, and veered off.


Day 418

Encountered the Council Ship Endeavor in a routine inspection. Captain Tavian wanted to run, but Captain Skiller let them board.


Day 428

We were ambushed by a cloud skiff by the name of Deathbringer. We exchanged fire for a bit, then Miriam managed to hit them amidships, and touch off their central magazine! She's becoming quite a shot with cannon! The Deathbringer blowed up real good. Ruby regretted the loss of life, but understood there was no way to save the falling. That's when we noticed that the shots that missed the hull had managed to snare our nets. We have no means to catch more food while we're out, because Captain Skiller did not purchase replacements. We should be alright, but we must resupply when we reach the Draining Sea.


Day 432

It's not been a boring trip out so far, we have entertainment from Bucky the Bard, in addition to Captain Tavian's normal stories. Lady Miriam even told some stories she knew.


Day 450

The crew saw a white skylar today. Apparently it's a bad luck omen warded off by throwing a cog overboard. I was belowdecks with Ruby when it happened, so I didn't see it, but it was all the sailors would talk about for that whole day.


Day 452

The gun that was altered by the Bone Queen's magic is missing. I happened to catch a glimpse of it in Roc's hoard. I considered snatching it back, or even directly asking about it, but with how possessive Roc is I decided against it. Slayer is my preferred method of combat anymore anyway. I just wish it were longer.


Day 455

Other items from various members of the crew are not where they are supposed to be. Nothing is missing, it's all just in the possession of someone else. Someone's messing with us.


Day 463

Bucky the Bard fell overboard today. He was tied off, so it was a simple matter of hauling him back up. I saw Captain Tavian do it himself, although there seemed to be a very intense period of conversation before the Captain pulled Bucky back up the last few feet.


Day 470

Noticing boredom setting in amongst the crew, Lady Miriam preformed a dance for them that I don't believe they will ever forget.


Day 480

A bloodcurdling scream awakened us in the middle of the night. The Bone Queen had come back to take her revenge on us for destroying her ship. After a long battle Roc blasted her with a burst of eldritch flame, Slayer stuck the final blow. If this dagger wasn't already magical, it would be now.


Day 484

We caught an updraft a couple days ago that finally released us today. We sighted a damaged frigate that looked stable and in no danger of falling immediately. We made for it and read it's name as the Spirit of Knowledge. I recognized the name as belonging to the ship of a famous Glowborn explorer, Galphin. He was last seen leaving for an expedition in the Ice Islands and the Draining Sea. Boarding the Spirit, we found dead bodies on the deck, but we couldn't tell what had killed them. It was icy below decks with more bodies scattered around. Lots of cutting and hacking damage. We found a zombie belowdecks in a barricaded room clutching a bottle. We put him down, and read the fragments of paper that were in the bottle. They appeared to be from Gaulphin's journal, which would make the zombie Gaulphin himself. The fragments talked of keys to the Ice Tower, Skiller might be on to something after all. We found a piece of twisted metal on a leather chord; it might be part of the key that Gaulphin wrote about.

We found skittelings in lower hold, and killed them. We also found some food to replenish our supplies with. I'm sure that's a help to Captian Skiller's worries on that account.
_________________
Have a Happy,
Mindseye

I am searching for
Someone, Somewhere, but I do
Not know who or where

[mindseye]

It was close, but I managed to get it up before the next session started this time.



Day 490

It's very cold up here now. We met a ship named the Cornelia Marie coming out of the Draining Sea. Just as we drew broadside to it, an iceberg from the Draining Sea fell and crushed it. No survivors. Captain Tavian's steady hand at the wheel kept up safe, though.


Day 507

As we approach the Draining Sea, I noticed both Captain Tavian and Ruby seeming a little down in spirits and bored. Even the huge chunk of ice nearly falling on their heads didn't seem to get a much of a rise out of them. We encounter another ice fall, but get through unscathed. Just as we arrive at the Draining Sea, our approach takes us past a large glacier that reflects the voidglow back at us. It puts everyone a little on edge. We find orcs with goblin slaves waiting for us with logs to roll the Rosey on. I'm not happy to see goblin slaves. This was my life before my awakening. Some days I'm not sure how much I remember from before, but what I saw with new eyes as a glowborn turns my stomach now. The orcs belong to the Ice Bear Tribe. Tarhog is there cheiftan. Azghar is their Champion, he'd make a good gladiator. Captain Skiller gave the orcs some of the liquid supplies we liberated from the Spirit of Knowledge. Skiller selected all of our party to go as well as the orc twins, and Bucky the Bard. He left Lean on the boat with the rest, so that his good luck will keep the boat safe. I hope it is. I don't want to stay up here any more than I have to! Ruby is having a hard time with the cold, so Captian Skiller allows that two of our party may ride on the Rosey to help keep off the cold. Miriam rides with her.


Day 508

Ruby is more cheerful now, but Miriam has taken a turn to the irritable. Ruby is talking to her, but I'm not sure it's doing any good. Any inquiries were met with "girl talk" Roc is feeling the cold and trades places on the Rosey with Ruby.


Day 509

The goblins exerted themselves today, Captain Skiller thinks we may have cut a day off of the trip.


Day 511

Corynna fell into a nestful of ice grubs. The goblins insisted on gathering them and eating them. Corynna made friends for life. Miriam started to go beyond being irritable, but Ruby was able to calm her down.


Day 512

It was extremely cold up her today, even for up here. Ruby is suffering from the cold, but still makes the round trying to help others deal with oncoming glowmadness. She really is a wonder some days.

Day 513

One of the orcs is missing. While Tavian managed to track himself into a circle, Miriam managed to discover a trail that indicated he had been dragged off to a crevasse. We found the body there, but there were no blood. Tarhog is watching everybody.


Day 514

Late this evening there was a very loud ruckus among the tents. A trail of blood lead to the tent where Tavian and Skinner were sleeping. Tarhog is very irate in his investigation the death of two more orcs. He is sure that Tavian is responsible, and demands single combat against their champion, Azghar to prove the Captain's innocence. Both are armed but neither use magic of any type. They exchange blows for a little bit, and the fight quickly got pretty brutal. Azghar got his axe stuck in the ice after a particularly wild swing, and Tavian whacks him a good one across the melon. Azghar goes down. Corryna heals Azghar back to normal. Tavian suggests posting a guard.


Day 516

We encounter a swarm of ice crickets. Roc uses a burst of flame on the head of the column and we keep killing them until they are dead.


Day 517

Once again there's a rukus during the sleep cycle. Volrog, one of the orc twins calls for the Captain. When we got out of our tents, we saw him wrestling with El Deer, Bucky the Bard! Apparently Bucky is the one who has been killing the orcs! Roc uses another burst of flame to soften him up. Bucky rantings mark him as one of a group that will never forgive the orcs for their acts during the War of Madness. Miriam managed to cleave him from stem to stern with her axe. Later in the day, I start to get irritable from voidglow exposure, but Ruby manages to talk me down.


Day 518

We arrive at a water lake in the middle of the Draining Sea. Apparently Skinner wasn't so mad after all. I've seen water like this in my dreams, but never in the flesh. The orcs and goblins quickly set to making the ramp to get the Rosey into the water. We heard horns in the distance. Using his spyglass, Tavian identifies the oncoming as a host of orcs. The Captain describes a banner with a cracked shield. Tarhog indentified the group as religious zelots trying to keep the "unworthy" away from the Battlelord. Tarhog and the orcs met one flank of the zealots, while Captain Tavian led our group against the other flank. The orc twins are with us. We met their charge with powder, magic, and blade. The battle was hard fought, with ruby and Corynne's healing efforts, no one had any lasting injuries. Tarhog's group got through much the same. The goblins had to be coaxed out of the snow drifts, but Corynne's rapport with them prevailed. Was I ever so fearful as that? Tarhog's remaining orcs remain behind to secure the launch site. We set sail (on water!) in the Rosey. A steady breeze started us off well the first day. Large chunks of ice, the size of a hill float on the surface,


Day 520

Ice hill ahoy! Captain Skinner manages to get the Rosey around to skim us just around an ice hill. I think I could have touched it; it was so close. We can see a palace in the distance with a large figure striding the balcony, but Captain Tavian insists on steering well clear of it. Knowing the Battlelord's temperment, I can't help but agree. I never thought I would see one of the gods with my own eyes, ever.


Day 522

Today was an exciting day, because today we found the Tower of Ice. What we actually found were battlements sized for a god sticking out of the Ice and snow in the middle of the liquid sea. As we approached we could make out an oddly shaped ice column that turned out to be a frozen human chained to a post. He has what would have been a sucking chest wound that had been bandaged. We found papers on him that contained more journal entries that indicate he was once Vincel, companion of Galphin. We discovered the mate to Galphin's key and Tavian managed to put them together. A window higher up on the tower seemed to be the only entrance available to us, Skiller and I affix ropes to help the rest of the crew's ascent. Just as we get to the window, two ogres burst out of the window. The combined efforts of Captain Tavian and Roc put them down quickly. Skiller assumes this may be what happened to the orcs of the original crew.

Inside we find huge ornate doors with Iron bindings. We also find a weapon rack that is laden with Ice weapons. After combat with the orcs, we avail ourselves to the weapons rack to bolster our defense. Captain Tavian used the key to open the doorway. Behind the doors we find a descending staircase. Taking it we arrive at an arched opening. Six large windows are choked with spikes of ice. One ice spike has a corpse on it. There is another opening with stairs continuting down, but before we can take it, we are set upon by ghosts. Skiller didn't have a weapon so he grabbed something off the rack. As the rest of us came to realize our regular weapons did no harm to the ghosts, while Skiller's did, we followed suit. Apparently the ghost are immune to all but ice. Ruby panics at their appearance and runs away. It's momentary, but profound. With the ice weapons the ghosts quickly dissipate.

The corpse on the ice spike turns out to be a priest of the lifemother in altitude gear. We pull the body off of the spike and Ruby says some words over it. She mentions part of the duties of a priestess of the lifemother involve marriage. The way she looks at me when she says that makes me slightly queasy. We keep going down. After about 40 feet we run out of stairs. Fifty feet below us, there's debris where the remains of the stairs continue, and 50 feet below that there's a cavern. There are two other passages available to us. Captain Tavian calls a halt while we consider our options. In the area we are in there are two murals. Part of one is missing, and the other shows a great battle. In the battle, all races are represented except the wildlings, with the Battlelord in the center of the battle. The other depicts a library with a circular table. Seated at it are a number of the dieties, as well as an empty chair with a raven over it. Where the Battlelord would be sitting, the mural is damaged with that part ripped away. Skiller and I make a rope fast to the doorway to help let the others down. That gets us into another room that is 40' by 40'. It it we found a mechanical monstrosity that attacked us. While we were fighting it, it seized up, Skiller capitalized on it's misfortune to deal it a mortal wound. Lady Miriam managed to completely disable it with a pistol shot immediately after that. Nearby there was another weapon wrack. Roc sensed magic in some of these weapons.
_________________
Have a Happy,
Mindseye

I am searching for
Someone, Somewhere, but I do
Not know who or where