Count Karnstein left the library in a foul mood, having learned that even awesome beholders are not free from the curse of undeath, and sunk in thoughts on his way back to the brothel. Where the boundary lies if even about the most intelligent and formidable creatures in existence can be reduced to a mindless thralls by some megalomaniac jerk of a necromancer? Ghouls or skeletons are nothing but nuisance, but the real pests are those who intentionally create and use them. What good was ever a zombie for beyond a spot of fun one may have throwing rocks at the wretched thing or prodding it with a stick? Death tyrants may be a slightly different story - if a beholder desires to become one, who's going to stop them? Count finds it oddly comforting that other beholders see death tyrants as abhorring. Similarly, vampirism should not be universally frown upon as not every case is unambiguous. Some vampires can be alright. Or ghosts. Or liches... well, no, screw them. Nobody likes these wankers while alive, doubly so when they decide in their infinite arrogance to carry on forever. Same as with death tyrants - which basically proves that humans and beholders share common sentiments. Our inferior society is too blinded by fear and narrow-minded to even admit it, but an exceptional individual could certainly learn a thing or two in the pursuit of self-improvement.

Count confidently agrees to go as an escort for the mushroom picking squad. "Nothin' beats good ole-fashioned mushroomin' trip at the crack o' dawn. Or so they say. I wouldn't know, but then they also say there's a first time fer everything. Good thing those shrooms grow on the surface. Imagine if we 'ad t'employ a herd o' pigs fer the job since Cap'n Baldbeard be away. 'Twould change that boneyard into a proper BOARyard!"

He is relieved they have the whole night ahead and after the meeting is over decides to check out whether Felara and Cinara are not occupied. What better way to temporarily forget all the distressing thoughts about atrocities of necromancy and potentially catastrophic trip to the vampire-infested graveyard in the morning than to indulge in a house specialty: the pounce 'n' bounce game? If he finds them free, he will tease: "Tsk tsk, trouble catchin' prey t'night? Should I take pity an' give ye a leg up 'fore they'll kick ye out on the street fer slackin'? I may yield, y'know, been tempted since morn to find out whether ye not be all meow 'n' no scratch type o' puss."

Hey, if you're sick of it and wish to kill us all at this point, it's totally valid. No need to ask for permission :D

I think we can trust that Argy keeps her garlic-pepper grinder stocked and loaded!

I think you do better at that than your GM. ;)

---
I'll set it up so Argy stays behind to make the grog recipe since Gilius can harvest the mushrooms. That should cover Argy for a few weeks. Good luck with your RL issues!

---
ROFL!!

Thanks. I'll remember that. ;)

[OOC: Did Devin see the glowing eyes in the painting when he investigated it? Did any of the Crew mention seeing the eyes?]

BenKii, I've posted Devin's thinking so you can see it. It's not meant personally. Devin's got a rep for disobedience in certain circles and a cocky intolerance of leaders he thinks don't get the situation and plan sound tactics. The others got to see it between Devin and Captain Jac end of year one. In Devin's opinion Captain BenKii's shown a habit of charging ahead with a lack of knowledge or sound planning for what they've faced. As a player I get that's your character's way and Captain BenKii's Starfleet experience doesn't cover magical and undead situations, but Devin sees only that in his opinion it's going to get his lady's crew killed. He's starting to question BenKii's knowledge and experience, but Devin will do almost anything for his Lady of Stars. He's trying to educate your character and the others here.]

Devin looks at Captain BenKii in dismay when he hears BenKii back Count's idea to split the teams then tells them Devin could stay behind. He be appalled at this human captain's, if in truth he be, lack of knowledge and tactics. He uses his years of experience to instantly cover his true reaction, reaching a finger up to touch the feather in his braid whilst begging for his lady's patience. The inexperienced naive fool of the tarot card be proposing to walk them all off the plank! What doth he do with this? He be bard and nightblade, not a babysitter! Doth he handle this openly, or by his own rules? Devin knows well his reputation for disobedience and cocky disregard of orders. But this time it be his lady who hath requested his assistance and her requests wilt always come first lest he be otherwise compelled by his goddess. Captain Aylar hath also charged Devin with watching o'er the crew's safety when Aylar canst not be there. A momentary pause and Devin rolls his mental dice for his lady's preference of truth. BenKii seems a good lad, if strange and with little knowledge of things one wouldst expect him to know if captain of a sailing vessel he truly be. Perhaps it be a fishing trawler or merchant vessel and he be new to the captain's position? Nay, even those he wouldst expect BenKii to hath his sea legs under him and better read his surroundings to know when the current and winds be against him and a storm be coming. His Lady of Stars wouldst want Devin to educate him to read the situation, learn to ask questions and use each person's knowledge and skill, not trick him overboard. Devin sighs under his breath and prepares to apply himself to the task.

"Ye gravely mistake me, Captain BenKii," Devin addresses him in a soft melodic baritone. "Bellandra speaks rightly, I canst not 'hold the portal open' from here. Gormi and some Wolf crew canst guard the painting on this side that none take it from us, but it be on the other side that I needst be to open a way back shouldst the painting there be destroyed or shut to ye." He gestures to Grog'tial. "Grog'tial knows of what I speak. As long as there be moonlight me goddess grants me a way, and Gilius now hath a way to bring that moonlight. Indeed, I advise that the painting be moved upstairs into a private room with sunlight and moonlight to further discourage certain undead from trying to follow anyone back." [OOC: confirmed by GM.]

Devin shakes his head. "Splitting the party be not sound tactics here. Ye wouldst send yerself and those with ye into that graveyard without those best equipped to fight against undead, without yer healer and no spell casters to protect ye." He continues to speak softly, but gestures to himself then to Count, Gilius and Kyp. "Understand that ye be proposing to leave behind yer most experienced scout, detrapper, undead fighter, lore bard and only Moonflower experienced person among ye. With me goddess's blessing I be yer best defense against the undead. Next wouldst be Count Karnstein with his new shield and warhammer, who prefers not to go there. His reluctance considering his knowledge and experience with undead shouldst warn ye there be reason for his caution that ye shouldst be examining. Gilius, yer healer and only other spellcaster, be needed to harvest the Moonflowers, so he needst must go to the lighthouse. I be the only one amongst ye with experience and a tolerance to Moonflowers and with the only other moonblessed silvered blade needed to harvest them. Those same silvered blades be ruthlessly effective against undead. Kyp hath the only other weapon here besides Count, Gilius and meself that might reach through the spectral to attack incorporeal ghosts, but be half-mer so he shouldst go with them to the lighthouse. But afore that ye mayst want to consider there be no need to chance the lighthouse at all shouldst we wait but a day to see if the hedge witch be able to secure a supply of the Moonflowers we need. Shouldst she not and we needst go then the market mayst yet carry Jasmine Vanilla or British Breakfast teas to aide us against the flowers affect. I whilst check and procure some if so."

When BenKii changes his plan saying he and Kyp will dig up the mushrooms and Gilius protests, Devin adds his voice to Gilius's. "Ye wish to bring a shovel and crowbar? Be ye planning on grave robbing or digging for treasure? Me understanding was we be going for the graverot, nothing more. Nay, Captain BenKii, Gilius hath it a'right. The hedge witch told me the graverot mushrooms must be harvested with a sharp blade and handled carefully. Gilius and Argy be the best to do so and I and Count shouldst be nearby to lend protection. I advise Count with the shield shouldst keep them within range of the aura whilst I remain hidden but ready. Gilius also speaks wisely that we shouldst not leave until we be well rested and he and I hath prepared our spells." [OOC: confirmed by hedge witch with GM]

At his questions, Devin would turn to Grog'tial. "Well reasoned, Grog'tial. The portal on the other side may well be trapped and we wouldst be wise to take precautions. Me cat hath secured some rats for us. I be sending the rats through first, one magical and one not, to see if there be traps I needst deal with. After I shalt send the cat to scout, then myself stealthed. I be sending the cat back to signal the rest of ye when to come. Indeed there canst be a moment to get yer bearings on the other side of any portal. How long it mayst take a being depends on each, I hath no way to answer ye that. I wouldst suggest Gilius and Count be next through. There be trees and bushes shown next where we enter. Gilius wouldst be able to have them hide the rest of ye as ye come through. Count's aura shield canst protect the area whilst ye get your bearings." Devin looks around the table. "Once we all be through, Gilius, Count, Kyp and meself canst move to where Gilius need harvest the graverot. Ranged weaponers canst stay hidden within the bush screening Gilius makes, with Bellandra and BenKii also having their blades ready to protect Grog'tial with his dual blessed bolts and the portal, or to move to flank and assist be it necessary. Ye hath yer dirk and holy water as well. Use them and get within Count's aura be it come to that," he tells Grog'tial seriously before looking back to BenKii. "Yer crowbar not be magical or blessed, Captain BenKii. I wouldst have known be it so. It wilt work against skeletons, mayhaps some zombies, but do nothing to ghosts, ghasts or vampires." [OOC: verified by GM]

To Bellandra's comment about wanting to be in on the planning of the coming raid, Devin would reply, "I understand, Bellandra, but it be up to Captain Jac and that lady runs a very tight ship." He would pause then with a slightly embarrassed grin would confess, "Captain Jac be somewhat resistant to me charms. Ye mayst have better luck than I in persuading that lady." [OOC: Trust me, I hath no need to confirm that with our Fair GM. lol.]

Devin would agree with Grog'tial's proposed scouting watch and sneak out to get the graveyard painting. He would cast Invisibility on them both (should last 1 hour) before trapping it against anything trying to come through and setting it up where just the two of them can carefully observe it. (In a secluded closet or storage room.) When the Invisibility spell is almost over he'll take it from the frame and return it to the vault, trapping it again. Do they see any glowing eyes? If so, can Devin tell what they be? [chess piece]

When Argy reveals her plans to stay in the town to make the grog recipe, Devin wouldst pull her to one side. "Shouldst anything happen to us and we not return within the day, sweet Argy, doth not come after us but seek ye the help of the hedge witch. If ye must leave port, cover the painting and hath Captain Jac take it aboard with ye, then place it in the moonlight every night and I whilst bring them back."

[Devin tries to educate Captain BenKii about the weaknesses of the proposed plan and more practical tactics. He agrees with Gilius, answers Grog'tial and makes suggestions. Devin admits to Bellandra that she'd be better at persuading Captain Jac than he'd be. He brings the painting to a secluded place where he and Grog'tial can observe it for an hour before taking it from the frame and returning it to the vault safely. Devin asks Argy to do him a favor should they not return within the day.]

[OOC: Devin canst go either way, Fair One. Choose what makes it easier on ye and the other players. Though Devin wouldst prefer ye not cast us all into the Sea of Lost Souls, the Sea of Dreams, the Nine Hells or beset us with a death tyrant in the graveyard for a potential party wipe. (The glowing eyes in the painting?)

Good luck, Lone_Scout. Devin will miss ye but he'll do his best to keep Grog'tial out of trouble until ye return. Devin thinks about everything he's heard about Grog'tial's encounters. Come back soon!]

Before going through the painting, Grog'tial loads his crossbow with two blessed regular bolts (taking the one not in his quiver for this, so his quiver still contains 9 regular blessed bolts).

Gilius speaks up to propose a course of action :

"I suggest that when we decide to go an' enter the painting, we go in 2 groups. First I will make sure that we 'ave some concealment on arrival in the cemetary with some bushes.

The first group shall enter an' 'ide behind the cover I provide an' observe the situation fer a little while. If nothin' 'appens, the first group shall proceed towards the mushrooms while the second group shall enter an' take position where the first group was. That will allow to provide ranged support while bein' somewhat concealed. It won't be o' 'elp if that group is bein' engaged in close fight, but it can at least make targettin' an' aimin' at it more difficult.

If nothin' 'appens to the first group when it arrives near the mushroom, I will once again provide concealment there to make things safer while I deal with that mushroom. On the other 'and if we 'ave some trouble, ye'll 'ave to buy me some time while I try to 'urry to get it.

Once I 'ave the mushroom, the first group should fall back. All should go through the paintin' back 'ere while I will try to delay any opposition an' gettin' back in time hopefully.

Do ye all agree with that plan ? Devin, me and the Count would be in the first group. Or do we make three groups ? Devin and Grog'tial in the first, then me and the Count ?

If ye have other suggestions, I be all ears."

----

What's the length of a square on the map ? 1,50 m ?

Yes. Each square is 5ft or 1.524m. The mushrooms are a little over 60ft/18.3m from the painting.

The graverot mushrooms are medium sized and you'll want 6-7 if you are facing a coven (3 elixirs), enough to cover in case of any Failed elixir dice rolls and to help pay the hedge witch to brew them.

It was quite apparent from Devin's remarks that Captain BenKii was out of his depth in this world. There were many things in this fantasy land that he was still getting used to. He may be a Captain of a Starship with years of experience on many worlds but none of that seemed to be helping him in this realm of magic. The Captain deferred to Devin's advice, "Aye, Devin. Ye seem to be highly experienced in the matters of this world and have good tactical advice. We'll follow your lead through the Graveyard painting and get this shroom safely." He then looked down at his crowbar, "But I still be taking this with me. I have a feeling it may come in handy."

"Captain Jac may run a tight ship, master Devin, but not as tight as me family be to me heart. I will not endanger them to a reckless plan, nor leave them in the hands of Beckett. I will listen to the captain, and work with her, but I will not abide an ill-thought plan," Bellandra noted gravely.

After Devin mentioned warhammer, Count rolled up his sleeve and showed the new tattoo off, making sure that everyone present can take a look at it. Then nonchalantly demonstrated the process of drawing and stowing of the actual weapon.

In the painting, he will first take a good look around. If the graveyard seems quiet, he will go abreast of Gilius to the spot where mushrooms should be, then will keep watch next to the big statue (under the "m" on the map). If there's a sign of undead at any point, he will immediately equip the warhammer.

Mission 7 - Turn 28
*Turn Ends 9PM UTC, 17 June 2025.*

In Order: Count, Bellandra, Devin, Count, BenKii, Gilius, Devin, Grog'tial, Devin, Gilius, BenKii, Argy, Devin & Grog'tial, Gilius, Count, BenKii, Grog'tial, Devin, Crew.

Count Karnstein: (roll dice) You leave the library in a foul mood, disgruntled to learn that even the awesome beholders are not free from the curse of undeath. Your thoughts churn as you contemplate, Where does the boundary lie if even about the most intelligent and formidable creatures in existence can be reduced to a mindless thralls by some megalomaniac jerk of a necromancer? You reflect on what you read, deciding the real pests are those who intentionally create and use the undead. Death tyrants, however, may be a slightly different story. If a beholder desires to become one, who's going to stop them? You find it oddly comforting that other beholders see death tyrants as abhorring. Similarly, vampirism should not be universally frowned upon as not every case is unambiguous. Some vampires can be alright. Or ghosts. Or liches... well, no, screw them. Nobody likes those wankers while alive, doubly so when they decide in their infinite arrogance to carry on forever. Same as with death tyrants - which basically proves that humans and beholders share common sentiments. Our inferior society is too blinded by fear and narrow-minded to even admit it, but an exceptional individual could certainly learn a thing or two in the pursuit of self-improvement. Your musing is interrupted as you arrive back at the brothel and are hustled through the secret door into the hidden rooms just in time for the evening meal. As the discussion turns to going to the graveyard your previous thoughts and memories return. In an effort to avoid a face off with vampires and the shield you suggest splitting the group between the two paintings. Bellandra and Devin question you, but you are rather surprised when at first BenKii agrees.

Bellandra: You appreciate Sir Kay's tales and hesitantly agree to visit, for you are interested in the harbor town he describes, but not perhaps to settle down. "I would be glad to visit ye, and all me kin and the carver's too, if it does become a home for ye. But I do not know if I would settle - for now, I still feel the call of adventure, of the seas." Neither do you mind Candy's ruse and take no slight. Rather you tell Sir Kay you don't begrudge the ladies how they make their living as long as it be their choice. "Being able to move as a real body instead of a frozen figurehead has been a great joy to me, ever since I survived to land after me shipwreck. It is not the same, but still a kind of understanding for what these ladies have, and what others feel for them. I reserve me ire for the likes of Beckett and the aboleth and the hag, who seek to take away our freedom."

Bellandra, when you comment to Devin about wanting to be in on the planning of the coming raid, he replies, "I understand, Bellandra, but it be up to Captain Jac and that lady runs a very tight ship." He gives you a slightly embarrassed grin and confesses, "Captain Jac be somewhat resistant to me charms. Ye mayst have better luck than I in persuading that lady."

"Captain Jac may run a tight ship, master Devin, but not as tight as me family be to me heart. I will not endanger them to a reckless plan, nor leave them in the hands of Beckett. I will listen to the captain, and work with her, but I will not abide an ill-thought plan," you say gravely.

Bellandra, at the meeting you disagree with splitting the party. When BenKii states it's a good idea and suggests Devin stay behind, you are skeptical. "Though Master Devin be skilled, how would he prevent a painting from deactivating if some magic on the other side were to close it? Eh, if ye be determined I will help at the graveyard, but we should be careful, if Grog'tial be right and there be vampires, I remember well how we have already lost crew to those." When Gilius advises waiting for the morrow so Crew can be at full strength and he can prepare his spells you quickly agree. "Methinks we should wait for Gilius to regain his spells."

Devin: You look at Captain BenKii in dismay as you hear him back the idea to split the teams then suggests you can stay behind to somehow 'make sure the painting portals remain active' from this side. You are appalled at this human captain's, if in truth he be, lack of knowledge and tactics for this situation. You instantly cover your true reaction, reaching a finger up to touch the feather in your braid, begging for your lady's patience. The inexperienced naive fool of the tarot card be proposing to walk them all off the plank! You have a reputation for disobedience and cocky disregard of orders, but this time it be your lady who hath asked your assistance and for you her requests will always come first, unless you're otherwise compelled by your goddess. Captain Aylar has also charged you with watching over the crew's safety when he can't be there. After a momentary pause you decide your Lady of Stars would want you to educate Captain Benkii to better read the situation, learn to ask questions and use each person's knowledge and skill, not trick him overboard. BenKii seems a good lad, even if he doesn't seem to fully have his sea legs under him or know when the current and winds be against him and a storm be coming as you'd expect him to.

Devin, sighing under your breath you address him in a soft melodic baritone. "Ye gravely mistake me, Captain BenKii. Bellandra speaks rightly, I canst not 'hold the portal open' from here. Gormi and some Wolf crew canst guard the painting on this side that none take it from us, but it be on the other side that I needst be to open a way back shouldst the painting there be destroyed or shut to ye. Grog'tial knows of what I speak. As long as there be moonlight me goddess grants me a way, and Gilius now hath a way to bring that moonlight. Indeed, I advise that the painting be moved upstairs into a private room with sunlight and moonlight to further discourage certain undead from trying to follow anyone back." You proceed to point out your reasoning why splitting the party would "be not sound tactics here," especially when yourself and Count with his knowledge and new shield and warhammer are Crew's best undead fighters. You end with the fact the Crew may not need to go to the lighthouse at all if the hedge witch is able to procure the Moonflowers for you.

Count Karnstein: (roll dice) After Devin mentions the warhammer, you stand up and roll up your sleeve, showing off your new tattoo. You make sure everyone present can take a good look at it and its pure artistry of a black warhammer wreathed with faint silvery flames. Then you nonchalantly demonstrate the process of drawing and stowing the actual weapon. The quick draw is flawless, the weapon appears in your hand instantly. The stowing back takes an action as you bend your wrist to touch the handle back to the tattoo, placing it back in the magical pocket dimension of the tattoo, but it is impressive nonetheless. [Drawing the weapon is an instant bonus action, but returning it does take an action. - GM] Demonstration over, you confidently agree to go as an escort for the mushroom picking squad. "Nothin' beats good ole-fashioned mushroomin' trip at the crack o' dawn. Or so they say. I wouldn't know, but then they also say there's a first time fer everything. Good thing those 'shrooms grow on the surface. Imagine if we 'ad t'employ a herd o' pigs fer the job since Cap'n Baldbeard be away. 'Twould change that boneyard into a proper BOARyard!"

Captain BenKii: After contemplation and hearing from the crew, you stand up and address the room. "Alright gents, looks like we can skip the Lighthouse painting if Devin can procure those Moonflowers another way. So now we need to focus on the graveyard but it not be an easy task as we know something evil is over there waiting for us. Given the bat Devin saw in the painting, we can assume a vampire or a vampirate may be at play here. I happen to still have one more stake in me inventory just for that occasion." You give your chest a light pat where the stake resides. "I would also assume zombies be there since it is a graveyard after all. I suggest two teams for this graveyard operation. The first team will be the mushroom collectors which will consist of me, Count Karnstein, Kyp, Bellandra, and Gillius. Kyp and I will collect the mushrooms with the shovel and crowbar while Count, Gillius, and Bellandra provide protection." Looking around you notice no one actually has a shovel. "Didn't anyone buy a shovel at the marketplace? C'mon, we're going to a graveyard and ya didn't think to buy one? Well then look in the garden shed or somewhere for one otherwise I'll just dig things up with me magical crowbar. Anyways, our second team will secure the portal for our return and will be Devin, Argy, and Grog'tial. Devin and Grog'tial can make use of their long range blessed weapons to deal with any undead while Argy can stand back with her cupcakes to blow up entire hordes of zombies if needed. The Portal team does not necessarily need to enter the portal. They only need to stand at the entrance to use their weapons. And in the case the portal should somehow close on us, I'd be relying on Devin to make sure it can be reopened. Plus, Argy need not be putting herself in harms way if this be a trap set by the Hag." You wink at Grog'tial hoping he'll get the message that you're setting him up to keep Argy safe and perhaps give him a "hero" moment. "This be a simple mission gents. We get in quickly, pluck our mushrooms, then back to the portal as fast as we can. No distractions from any potential loot. Got it?" As you say it you almost feel like everyone in the room is still going to look for loot. They're pirates after all.

Gilius: You listen to BenKii's battleplan carefully and intervene. "Nay, I will 'andle the collectin' o' the mushrooms, I be the most qualified fer that job. Forget about that shovel or crowbar, it would take far too long anyway an' I don't want us to dilly-dally more than necessary in such a dreaded place. Let me 'andle it. 'ow many do we need by the way? I will need some escort, though." You quickly stare at Devin and the Count, hoping for an intervention from their part. "And about possible enemy opposition, I fear corpses risin' from the tombs as well as possible enemies comin' from behind the doors to the left and the right o' the painting," you say, thinking of possible zombies and vampires and relieved when Devin adds his voice to yours.

Devin: "Ye wish to bring a shovel and crowbar? Be ye planning on grave robbing or digging for treasure? Me understanding was we be going for the graverot, nothing more. Nay, Gilius hath it a'right. The hedge witch told me the graverot mushrooms must be harvested with a sharp blade and handled carefully. Gilius and Argy be the best to do so and I and Count shouldst be nearby to lend protection. I advise Count with the shield shouldst keep them within range of the aura whilst I remain hidden but ready. Gilius also speaks wisely that we shouldst not leave until we be well rested and he and I hath prepared our spells." You inform Gilius the hedge witch advised you to harvest six to seven mushrooms to be safe. Crew will want three elixirs if there's a coven and you promised the hedge witch extra in case of any failures and as a partial payment for her brewing services.

Grog'tial: You are fine with waiting until Gilius has memorized spells. You feel half a day more should not matter to Captain Jac and the next mission. You ask Gilius again to bless your new bolts if the extra time allows for that, but are informed that it is a ritual that requires Gilius to spend several hours first finding a nature area to build a druid ritual circle and then to conduct the ritual itself. Aboard the Ship he and Aeshma had shared her circle and been able to conduct the ritual together. While it is not a no, you realize it is yet one more thing made more difficult without the Ship.

Grog'tial, while you agree to the general outline of BenKii's plan, you also realize no plan survives contact with the enemy. You ask Devin about the paintings; could they be trapped on the other side, what precautions might crew take, will you all need a moment to get your bearings on the other side? You propose to spend some time quietly and unobtrusively observing the graveyard painting for the movement of the bats, trying to get an accurate count, determining if there are any patrol routes, and to just generally observe what else is happening and what they can expect. You ask Devin if it can be gotten from wherever it's been secured and set up with such necessary precautions to ward it as he deems necessary. "Oh, also, since we're expecting to face vampires... Argy, I'm assuming you bought a bunch of garlic on your shopping trip?" You make a note to grab garlic cloves before you leave and distribute them to everyone, and to ask Argy and/or Rose to prepare both garlic powder and garlic oil, pocketing and distributing handfuls of the former, and applying the latter to your dirk and bolts and the weapons of fellow crew.

Devin: You turn to address Grog'tial's questions. "Well reasoned, Grog'tial. The portal on the other side may well be trapped and we wouldst be wise to take precautions. Me cat hath secured some rats for us. I be sending the rats through first, one magical and one not, to see if there be traps I needst deal with. After I shalt send the cat through to scout, then myself stealthed. I be sending the cat back to signal the rest of ye when to come. Indeed there canst be a moment to get yer bearings on the other side of any portal. How long it mayst take a being depends on each individual, I hath no way to answer ye that. I wouldst suggest Gilius and Count be next through. There be trees and bushes shown next to where we enter. Gilius wouldst be able to have them hide the rest of ye as ye come through. Count's aura shield canst protect the area whilst ye get your bearings." You look around the table as you continue. "Once we all be through, Gilius, Count, Kyp and meself canst move to where Gilius need harvest the graverot. Ranged weaponers canst stay hidden within the bush screening Gilius makes, with Bellandra and BenKii also having their blades ready to protect Grog'tial with his dual blessed bolts and the portal, or to move to flank and assist be it necessary. Ye hath yer dirk and holy water as well. Use them and get within Count's aura be it come to that," you tell Grog'tial seriously before looking back to BenKii. "Yer crowbar not be magical or blessed, Captain BenKii. I wouldst have known be it so. It wilt work against skeletons, mayhaps some zombies, but do nothing to ghosts, ghasts or vampires."

Gilius: You speak up to propose a course of action. "I suggest that when we decide to go an' enter the painting, we go in 2 groups. First I will make sure that we 'ave some concealment on arrival in the cemetary with some bushes. The first group shall enter an' 'ide behind the cover I provide an' observe the situation fer a little while. If nothin' 'appens, the first group shall proceed towards the mushrooms while the second group shall enter an' take position where the first group was. That will allow to provide ranged support while bein' somewhat concealed. It won't be o' 'elp if that group is bein' engaged in close fight, but it can at least make targettin' an' aimin' at it more difficult. If nothin' 'appens to the first group when it arrives near the mushrooms, I will once again provide concealment there to make things safer while I deal with the mushrooms. On the other 'and if we 'ave some trouble, ye'll 'ave to buy me some time while I try to 'urry to get 'em. Once I 'ave the mushrooms, the first group should fall back. All should go through the paintin' back 'ere while I will try to delay any opposition an' gettin' back in time hopefully. Do ye all agree with that plan? Devin, me and the Count would be in the first group. Or do we make three groups? Devin and Grog'tial in the first, then me and the Count? If ye have other suggestions, I be all ears."

Captain BenKii: As you listen to the discussion it is quite apparent from Devin's remarks that you are out of your depth in this world. There are many things in this fantasy land that you're still getting used to. You may be a Captain of a Starship with years of experience on many worlds but none of that seems to be helping you in this realm of magic. A Starfleet captain knows when to step back and learn from the natives familiar with their world, and this Weirding Sea seems to be an even more peculiar realm in it which only Devin, Gilius and the admiral have had any experience in among the crew. You decide to defer to their advice, "Aye, Devin. Ye seem to be highly experienced in the matters of this world and have good tactical advice. We'll follow your lead through the Graveyard painting and get these 'shrooms safely." Then you turn to Gilius. "Aye Gilius, ye would be best fer collecting that dark fungi. Being a Druid who knows more about nature an all that makes ye the best candidate. No need fer any shovel then." You look down and heft your sturdy iron crowbar, "But I still be taking this with me. I have a feeling it may come in handy."

Argy: You listen to the discussion and at the end you inform everyone that you will prepare them all a good breakfast in the morning and some rations to bring on their mission. You will, however, not go to the graveyard but stay at the brothel posing as Rose's cousin while you make the grog recipe required and run some minor errands while waiting for Captain Jac to arrive. As dinner and the planning concludes, Devin pulls you to one side. "Shouldst anything happen to us and we not return within the day, sweet Argy, doth not come after us but seek ye the help of the hedge witch," he implores you quietly. "If ye must leave port, cover the painting and hath Captain Jac take it aboard with ye, then place it in the moonlight every night and I whilst bring them back."

Devin & Grog'tial: (roll dice*8) Devin, you sneak out to get the graveyard painting and bring it to a secluded storeroom with old furniture and costumes. You cast Invisibility on Grog'tial and yourself. *Success* (1 hour). You restore the painting to its frame, warding and trapping it against anything trying to come through before setting it up where both of you can carefully observe it. As it activates the painting's light changes. It is gray and misty, with a heavily overcast sky, but it is obviously daytime. You cannot tell what time, except it doesn't seem to be dusk. Grog'tial, with it being daytime you see no bats about. The fogginess makes it hard to truly observe closely. You can barely make out the chapel but the gravestones and area beyond 30ft/9m is obscured except for maybe the brief glimpse of a shadow where you know the statue should be. There is moisture on the grass, but no new footprints you can see through the mist, just the older boot prints Devin mentioned. There are no lights or lamps lit. Everything looks abandoned. After a while a raven lands on the nearest tombstone and eats a mouse. Devin, you notice the unnatural quiet. Grog'tial may not be used to forested areas, but you are, and as a bard you're attuned to sounds. Even the raven is unnaturally quiet. It is still sitting there when the hour is almost up and you carefully detrap and pull the painting from its frame before taking it back to the vault and trapping and storing it once more. Grog'tial, you use the last of the Invisibility to make your way back to the hidden room, frustrated.

Gilius: (roll dice*2) You are able to inscribe your last five spells into your book before going to sleep in your new bedroll. In the morning you awaken and begin to prepare your spells for the day. [Post or PM me the 10 spells you prepare for the day. - GM]

Count Karnstein: (roll dice*5) Relieved you have the whole night ahead, you decide to check out whether Felara and Cinara are not occupied. What better way to temporarily forget all the distressing thoughts about the atrocities of necromancy and a potentially catastrophic trip to the vampire-infested graveyard in the morning than to indulge in a house specialty: the pounce 'n' bounce game? Donning your officer's disguise you quietly ascend the back stairs. Glancing into the parlor while trying to remain inconspicuous, you spot the twins with some rotund old merchant captain by the looks of it. Felara spots you and signals Cinara. Soon they've passed the merchant off to Candy and slip out to you. "Should I take pity an' give ye a leg up 'fore they'll kick ye out on the street fer slackin'?" you tease. "I may yield, y'know, been tempted since morn to find out whether ye not be all meow 'n' no scratch type o' puss."

Count, the twins purr and with the undertone of a growl they each take an arm and lead you away. In the morning you definitely have your answer about Felinoids pouncin' 'n' bouncin' and the long 'n' rough, but you wear your scratches proudly, if a bit stiffly, to breakfast. You note with pleasure the rare steak with the eggs on your plate as Argy smirks at you.

Captain Benkii: (roll dice) You get some rest in your bedroll, leaving the floor cushions for the others. In the morning you pack your bedroll away and grab your Earl Grey Tea to gain some Poison Resistance, then equip your musket and crowbar, prepared to enter the graveyard painting after breakfast.

Grog'tial: (roll dice) Before you go to enjoy Argy's breakfast, you load your crossbow with two blessed regular bolts, using the extra one so there are still 9 blessed regular bolts in your quiver. [Quiver = 9 blessed reg, 10AP, 4 Exp. Confirmed by PM. - GM]

Devin (roll dice) You return from checking the morning news of the port right behind Rose bringing fresh baked bread and pastries to complete the Crew's breakfast. She stops and looks around. "Where's Kyp?" she asks.

Crew: You all look around. None of you remember seeing Kyp this morning. Asking the ladies and searching the brothel turns up nothing. Kyp is missing.

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Brothel: Argy, Bellandra, BenKii, Count, Devin, Gilius, Grog'tial
???: Aylar, Cliodhna, Aeshma, Refyx, Rummyfangs, Baldbeard, Kyp

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GM Note: You have this turn to discuss, further prepare and figure out if you are searching for Kyp or going for the graveyard.

Port Shop and
Marketplace items have been stocked for the in-game day.

Worried about Kyp's disappearance, Gilius tries to remember when he saw him last. Was he there yesterday evening during the evening meal ? Was he there during the briefing ? He doesn't remember hearing him speaking up about how to approach the cemetary painting.
Gilius searches the brothel for his belongings. Did he just disappear himself, or him as well as all his equipment ?

Gilius turns to Devin. "Did ye notice anythin' ? Or maybe did yer cat notice anything this night ?"

Gilius also checks both paintings and quickly takes a glance if there is anything suspicious or if Kyp could have gone in one of them.

Bellandra mentally contacted the owl gargoyle, seeking information whether the gargoyle or the shipkin had seen Kyp.

Seeing the meal awaiting him, Count Karnstein spread his arms in a gesture of deep appreciation. "How delightful. Argy, ye truly know best! How could a man live all these years without such a quality service?" Momentarily Count remembered his old, now dead on account of Beckett, loyal manservant Igor, and his everyday diet during the time in the city, consisting primarily of rats and alley cats. "Mind this, folks, I may yet come to see the error of me ways an' convince meself that choosin' the path of a bachelor was a mistake."

"Miss Rose! Be a dear an' bring me a pint o' bitter, to make this morning even sweeter!" He tosses her some coin, small tip included.

Hopefully the breakfast will be enough to recuperate and he won't need to use one of the overpriced potions right away.

After hearing that Kyp disappeared: "Given it's certain he ain't holed up in one o' the bedrooms with some sweet'eart by 'is side, I'd inquire whether any o' the girls ain't missin' either. Mayhaps they arranged a tryst somewhere remote, or even ran off into the blue altogether in the flush of a youthful fling," Count makes a pause, recalling the night's antics, "although after gettin' t'know some o' the local color more intimately, I'm beginnin' t'worry they could've eaten the poor guy... Anyhoo, without any lead or reason to believe something truly bad 'appened, 'twould be lookin' fer a needle in a haystack. We can't exactly afford to comb the whole town now, can we? Master Devin could instruct his lovely lady-agents to discreetly ask 'round port in case he'd really left town, while we keep to our schedule. Shouldn't be 'arder than locatin' us in that devilish dungeon, I reckon."

"Where's Kyp?"

About to ask Count if he got any sleep, Rose's question stops Devin. He runs his gaze over the crew gathered for breakfast. He was checking on Beckett's spies last night and left the cat to track their movements before resting and preparing his spells. (Did Devin or the cat see anything unusual or any hints about what might have happened to Kyp?)

If it none of the others have seen Kyp, Devin will go to speak to Madame and the ladies, then check with Gormi. If no clues are offered, he will check with Gilius about Kyp's belongings then leave to check with a couple of his contacts and set a seabird watch for a young half-mer. Knowing Bellandra's links to her shipkin, Devin wouldst also request her to ask Pearl and Finn if they've seen Kyp in the harbor and if any ships left in the night or dawn hours and can they describe them.

Devin also checks to see if Kyp shouldst still have the turtle charm on him. Does the charm contain his lady's magic like feather ones Devin was told of? If so, can Devin use his lady's feather to try tracing its magic?

Grog'tial scribbles a short message with his Emerald Nib Pen, including the necessary signifiers to make certain it'll get proper attention, and gets someone from the staff to deliver it to the shady fence. He figures that if anyone will have seen if anything untoward has happened to Kyp, it'd someone moving about in that sphere of influence, and that he should have enough pull to get word filtering back to him swiftly.