Dantia/Logs/20210627 Log

>look
[Milene's Rose, Tavern]
Roomy and rectangular, the tavern for Milene's Rose is always busy, but strangely never so full that it becomes unbearably crowded.  A booth in the corner allows for privacy, and a bar offers service for the thirsty and the hungry.  There is little sign of disarray anywhere.
You also see a majestic snow white mountain lynx with glowing sapphire eyes (sitting) and the publican.
Also here: Sir Madigan, Mountain Lord Ezerak, Tempest Knight Saragos, Soul Surgeon Zynell, Aes-Amachi Casari, Maunderer Aislynn (sitting), Hodierna's Fist Kaelie, Scurrilous Reprobate Enthien and Lady of Elamiri Ayrell.
Obvious exits: east.

[General] Kauga thinks, "Kauga has announcement.  Angry guy said Kauga use angry guy's thinky-stone to read paper now."

Aislynn blinks.

Aislynn adjusts her stone gwethdesuan into place.

Aislynn glances at you.

>say Wonder who angry guy is...
You say, "Wonder who angry guy is..."

[General] Kauga thinks, "Paper say, Kauga say Boss Srinoja not good pirate.  Kauga say -- wait, what does "denounce" mean?"

[General] Aislynn thinks, "That you don't agree with what she did. "

Aislynn shifts her weight.

>whisper visible Madigan Someone is clearly feeding him these lines, this is not what he thinks.
You whisper to Madigan, "Someone is clearly feeding him these lines, this is not what he thinks."

[General] Kauga thinks, "Angry guy want Kauga use big word.  Kauga big-words Srinoja as captain, and agrees to honor angry-guy as captain."

Madigan raises an eyebrow in your direction.

[General] Aislynn thinks, "Does angry-guy have a name that the rest of us ought to use?"

[General] Kauga thinks, "Probably, but Kauga told to stop asking questions."

>think Kauga! It's great to hear from you again! Is there someplace we could meet this angry-man? Healy-friend would love to meet more of your friends.
[General] You hear your mental voice echo, "Kauga! It's great to hear from you again! Is there someplace we could meet this angry-man? Healy-friend would love to meet more of your friends."
You concentrate on projecting your thoughts.

[General] Strithas thinks, "Do you recall Angry-guy's appearance or race by chance?"

[General] Kauga thinks, "Angry guy has silly mask.  And a whip.  Kauga think Kauga still on pirate island place, but Kauga not sure."

[General] Kauga thinks, "Angry guy want Kauga keep reading."

>nibble dantia
You nibble your lip thoughtfully.

>say }Madi Pirate island, Hara'jaal?
You ask Madigan, "Pirate island, Hara'jaal?"

[General] Aislynn thinks, "You're doing great, Kauga."

[Personal] Whiteburn thinks, "I am searching for the whereabouts of Kauga and his new... associates... on Hara'jaal as we speak. I will apprise of you any success in my endeavors."

Madigan nods to you.

>send White I was just on my way to a boat to get there.
[Personal] You think to Whiteburn, "I was just on my way to a boat to get there."
You project your thoughts to Whiteburn.

>say }Madi Let's go.
You say to Madigan, "Let's go."

>join mad
You join Madigan's group.

Madigan nods.

Madigan raises his hand in a quick salute.

<travel to personal ship>

[The Crossing, Landfall Dock]
The dock here is teeming with travelers, stevedores and bales and bales of goods.  The waves of the Segoltha River mingle with the darker blue, salty water of the ocean to the east, marking this as a deep water estuary.  Ships from all corners of Elanthia put into port here, bringing all the races and professions together in this waterfront town.
You also see the Reshalian Revenge, the Dragon's Slave, the Huldah's Gambit, the Sixth Passage, Kaujin Suto, the Rabid Guppy, the Anchor and Chain, the Immortal Hand, the Maelstrom, the Precious Pearl, the Cutty Sark, the Menace, Elanthian Queen, the Mistress of Hearts, the Fallen Lotus, the Razor's Edge, the Wavedancer, the Katamba's Eclipse, the Excelsior, the Clockwork Shade, the Majestic Sea-Cow, the Queen's Ransom, the Spirit of Katamba, Seraglio, The Star of Elamiri, the Scarlet Maiden, the Rising Phoenix, the White Raven, the Shadow Star, the Golden Sunrise, a bucket of hooks, a basket of normal fishing line, a barrel of fish bait and a barrel of fishing poles.
Also here: Sir Madigan, Mastermind Telamont, Master Fool Echosong and Sothios.
Obvious paths: north.
Nearby in the water you see: a fleet of ships.

[General] Kauga thinks, "Srinoja makes crime of not big-wording dead guy.  Kauga big-words Srinoja, big-words dead guy."

[General] Kauga thinks, "Kauga now will be justice'd by Var'Quel.  That's a funny name.  The end."

>nibble dantia
You nibble your lip thoughtfully.

[privatechannel] Whiteburn thinks, "I am searching the manor for Kauga as we speak. "

[privatechannel] Navesi thinks, "Two steps ahead, Mother Whiteburn."

>think Kauga, your healy-friend is concerned about your safety. I don't think angry-man is looking out for you. Can you get someplace safe?
[General] You hear your mental voice echo, "Kauga, your healy-friend is concerned about your safety. I don't think angry-man is looking out for you. Can you get someplace safe?"
You concentrate on projecting your thoughts.

>say Okay, I think he's saying that Srinoja is found guilty of disobeying the Baron, and he's about to go to trial.
You say, "Okay, I think he's saying that Srinoja is found guilty of disobeying the Baron, and he's about to go to trial."

[General] Kauga thinks, "Kauga stuck in big chains.  Angry-guy keep Kauga in small metal closet.  Angry guy probably be taking thinky stone away soon."

>say Sorry, and that Kauga is about to go to trial.
You say, "Sorry, and that Kauga is about to go to trial."

Madigan asks, "Shall we wait Dantia or start to sail that way?"

Madigan peers quizzically at you.

>think Do you remember what it looked like outside the metal closet? I'd like to try to find you and talk to you.
[General] You hear your mental voice echo, "Do you remember what it looked like outside the metal closet? I'd like to try to find you and talk to you."
You concentrate on projecting your thoughts.

[General] Kauga thinks, "Sky is nice.  Wood building is nice.  Hooks is not so nice."

[General] Kauga thinks, "Angry guy has Kauga on big hook.  Tie to stick, in small metal closet."

>send Whiteburn A wood building with hooks?
[Personal] You think to Whiteburn, "A wood building with hooks?"
You project your thoughts to Whiteburn.

[General] Kauga thinks, "Okay.  Dear Drogor, please drown angry guy.  Kauga hope he can't swim.  Signed, Kauga."

<onto boat>

Madigan climbs aboard the Dragon's Slave.

You follow Madigan onboard the ship.
[You are aboard a four-masted galleon with twelve sails and a fierce dragon figurehead named the Dragon's Slave which is afloat in the Segoltha river estuary facing north and is moored to the Landfall dock.]
[The Dragon's Slave, Aft Waist]
Here the silver-hinged gangway is ever ready to release and secure the heavy mistwood boarding plank.  The railings are carved with detailed scenes of dragons along their length, while overhead the vivid blue and white sails obscure the view to the top of the mizzen mast far above.  A honeysuckle vine grows from a banded barrel placed out of the way, the plant flourishing despite the harsh elements it encounters.
You also see The Crossing, the mizzen upper topsail, the mizzen lower topsail and the crossjack.
Also here: Newswoman Navesi, Tempest Knight Saragos, Scurrilous Reprobate Enthien, Mazrian and Sir Madigan.
Ship paths: forward, aft, down.
Nearby in the water you see: Lil' Jonn (far: west), the Reshalian Revenge (adjacent), Water Rights (far: west), the Huldah's Gambit (adjacent), Slo Heke'mary (far: west), the Asaran Otso (far: west), the Sixth Passage (adjacent), Kaujin Suto (adjacent), the Rabid Guppy (adjacent), the Black Rose (far: west), the Black Plague (far: west), the Island Dancer (far: west), the Captain's Delight (far: west), the Anchor and Chain (adjacent), the Brazen Head (rather far: southwest), the Immortal Hand (adjacent), the War Witch (far: west), the Maelstrom (adjacent), the Precious Pearl (adjacent), the Cutty Sark (adjacent), Phantom Sapphire Corsair (far: west), the Menace (adjacent), Knot Yours (far: west), Elanthian Queen (adjacent), the Mistress of Hearts (adjacent), the Son of Damaris (far: west), a massive black four-masted galleon with a snarling panther figurehead named the Shadowed Charger (far: west), the Rissan Revenge (rather far: southwest), the Fallen Lotus (adjacent), the Razor's Edge (adjacent), the Wavedancer (adjacent), the Katamba's Eclipse (adjacent), the Excelsior (adjacent), Anchor Management (far: west), the Wandering Fae (rather far: southwest), Rose Huntress (rather far: southwest), the Day Tripper (far: west), the Clockwork Shade (adjacent), the Golden Unicorn (far: west), the Jolly Roger (far: west), Sunk Cost (far: west), Mazrian's Last Dance (far: west), the Tipsy Gypsy (far: west), the Bloody Stalker (far: west), the Raging Tempest (far: west), the Majestic Sea-Cow (adjacent), the Queen's Ransom (adjacent), the Silver Mermaid (far: west), the Spirit of Katamba (adjacent), the Floating Locksmith (far: west), Seraglio (adjacent), the Bloody Dawg (rather far: southwest), a single-masted cog with a large red sail emblazoned with a black khurmary named the World Dragon (far: west), Nauta Kaerna World (far: west), the Maverick (rather far: southwest), a cog with an Elven lass figurehead holding a black swan and named The Star of Elamiri (adjacent), the Scarlet Maiden (adjacent), the Lunar Guardian (far: west), Treasure Seeker (far: west), the Rising Phoenix (adjacent), the Asaran Alaca (far: west), the White Raven (adjacent), a cutter with a longbow-wielding figurehead named the Buried Treasure (far: west), the Rimefang (far: west), the King's Buccaneer (far: west), the Laughing Gnome (far: west), the Miner Fortune (far: west), the Shadow Star (adjacent), the Mistbringer (rather far: southwest), M'Riss Behavin' (far: west), the Golden Sunrise (adjacent), the pier at Alfren's Tollbridge (rather far: southwest), The Crossing docks on the north bank (far: west), the Landfall dock (adjacent), Segoltha Bay (distant: east).

Pilot Sarahkyth says, "Very well, Captain, I will pilot the Dragon's Slave to a beach on the north shore of Hara'jaal Island."
Pilot Sarahkyth says, "We launch in 2 minutes."

J>perc health
You sense:
    The presence of Navesi.
    The presence of Madigan.
    The presence of Mazrian.
    The presence of Enthien.
    The presence of Saragos.
    The presence of Echosong.
    A relatively healthy presence nearby. (critter)
Roundtime: 3 seconds

[General] Kauga thinks, "Pirate island.  Nice sky.  Not so nice angry-guys."

[General] Collain thinks, "Tell that mangy sea dog Var'Quel that nobody respected him in the morning, and nobody's going to respect him tomorrow morning either."

[General] Kauga thinks, "Kauga not sure angry guy want to hear that."

>think Kauga, a group of us are coming to talk to angry-man for you. If he comes back, please be extra nice to him until we get a chance to talk.
[General] You hear your mental voice echo, "Kauga, a group of us are coming to talk to angry-man for you. If he comes back, please be extra nice to him until we get a chance to talk."
You concentrate on projecting your thoughts.

[General] Hoger thinks, "Dantia has a habit of calming the angry man"

[General] Kauga thinks, "Angry guy has sad hat.  Makes his face hidden.  Maybe he has real ugly face?"

Pilot Sarahkyth calls out, "Cast off!"
The Dragon's Slave appears busy with activity as sailors begin hoisting in the tie-lines.

[Personal] Whiteburn thinks, "I cannot find this wooden building with hooks. "

Madigan says, "Folks, should take 10 roi."

Mazrian says, "It might be worthwhile to take a moment to talk about what we're going out there to do."

Madigan says, "I would suggest spelling up."

>say Okay, let's discuss this for a moment.
You say, "Okay, let's discuss this for a moment."

Mazrian asks, "I mean...are we rescuing Kauga?"

Mazrian asks, "Are we watching his execution?"

Mazrian asks, "Are we attacking the Baron in his manor?"

>say I do not think it would be wise to fight a Baron, no.
You say, "I do not think it would be wise to fight a Baron, no."

Navesi says, "I hadn't thought that far ahead yet."

Mazrian nods.

>say But perhaps we can speak in Kauga's favor.
You say, "But perhaps we can speak in Kauga's favor."

Madigan says, "The last is a no for certain."

Madigan says, "Attacking the Baron that is of Hara."

Mazrian ponders.

Echosong ponders.

Saragos says to Mazrian, "I'd say we're poking our noses in and then doing whatever's best to help the rest of the raid go off.  I'm not changing careers to be a pirate hunter."

Saragos says, "If we can get them to stop interfering, that's the best course of action."

Navesi says, "I say priority one is learning more about what's going on."

Mazrian says, "I think the Red Sash will likely stay out of this.  Though, again, who knows?  Opportunism being what it is."

>say I think we try to inform the court that Kauga was an unwitting participant in this. If you've ever met him, the poor guy couldn't plan his way out of a paper bag, so I don't truly believe he had much say in this.
You say, "I think we try to inform the court that Kauga was an unwitting participant in this. If you've ever met him, the poor guy couldn't plan his way out of a paper bag, so I don't truly believe he had much say in this."

Saragos nods to you.

>say He followed the orders of his Captain. So maybe a light punishment, a little community service or something.
You say, "He followed the orders of his Captain. So maybe a light punishment, a little community service or something."

>cringe
You cringe.
Mazrian ponders.

Mazrian asks, "Is that our problem?"

Navesi nods to you.

>say Just as the Baron would expect his army to follow his commands, so too did Srinoja.
You say, "Just as the Baron would expect his army to follow his commands, so too did Srinoja."

[General] Kauga thinks, "He not mysterious.  He just angry."

Mazrian says, "I mean, we might make it our problem, for sure."

Navesi asks, "Argue in favor of too idiotic to make his own choices?"

>say Too idiotic and loyal even though he did not understand the scope of what he was getting involved in.
You say, "Too idiotic and loyal even though he did not understand the scope of what he was getting involved in."

>say What a great guy to be lenient on and have work for the Baron instead.
You say, "What a great guy to be lenient on and have work for the Baron instead."

>nod
You nod.

Mazrian says, "This is about him being captured on the Hangman's Pursuit by the Red Hand who escorted her from the battle, and about Srinoja, who is a rival to the Baron Var'Quel, being dead or missing and unable to stop it."

Mazrian says, "If I had to guess."

Enthien asks, "Was Srinoja really a rival to the pirate king?"

>nod maz
You nod to Mazrian.

>say And it sounds like the Baron was not pleased Srinoja was supporting the "dead man".
You say, "And it sounds like the Baron was not pleased Srinoja was supporting the "dead man"."

Mazrian says, "Well.  Maybe that's a little aspirational."

Mazrian chuckles.

Saragos says, "I have no particular concern with Kauga.  If helping him helps us to keep the Red Sash from stopping Moglin in this, then sure."

Navesi says, "I don't quite understand all the pirate politics, but I do know she called herself independent and recruited from multiple factions."

Mazrian says, "But she was independant, not red sash, so I assume they were at odds in some way."

[General] Kauga thinks, "Kauga running!  Angry man not like when Kauga bite face."

Mazrian nods to Navesi.

J>blink
You blink.

>say Kauga is running.
You say, "Kauga is running."

>say Well there goes the loyal servant angle.
You say, "Well there goes the loyal servant angle."

[Personal] Whiteburn thinks, "I have espied Kauga! He has escaped my sight once again, but he is somewhere on Hara'jaal!"

J>say He is loose on Hara'jaal, Whiteburn has spotted him.
You say, "He is loose on Hara'jaal, Whiteburn has spotted him."

[Personal] Whiteburn thinks, "He has temporarily escaped his captors."

[General] Kauga thinks, "Lizards!"

>send White We're coming! Keep trying to find him! We're going to try to speak with the Baron if possible to negotiate softer punishment.
[Personal] You think to Whiteburn, "We're coming! Keep trying to find him! We're going to try to speak with the Baron if possible to negotiate softer punishment."
You project your thoughts to Whiteburn.

[General] Kauga thinks, "Kauga not stop run to find out."

>think Kauga, do you have someplace safe you can run, while we talk to the angry man for you? A boat, or a hideout?
[General] You hear your mental voice echo, "Kauga, do you have someplace safe you can run, while we talk to the angry man for you? A boat, or a hideout?"
You concentrate on projecting your thoughts.

>say Whiteburn is in pursuit of him.
You say, "Whiteburn is in pursuit of him."

>say }Madi We may need to let Kauga on board.
You say to Madigan, "We may need to let Kauga on board."

>grin mad
You grin at Madigan.

>say }Madi I apologize now for inviting a known pirate on your ship.
You say to Madigan, "I apologize now for inviting a known pirate on your ship."

Enthien smirks.

>nibble dantia
You nibble your lip thoughtfully.

Navesi glances at Madigan.

Navesi glances at you.

J>pace
You pace back and forth.
 
[privatechannel] Whiteburn thinks, "I have located Kauga, on Hara'jaal! He has escaped his captors, and I am currently attempting to locate him anew. "

[privatechannel] Saragos thinks, "We're on our way right now."

Madigan asks, "Well, take help him or capture him and turn him over?"

Madigan raises an eyebrow.

Navesi asks Madigan, "The Therengian Paladin has no opinion?"

Saragos says to Madigan, "I'd suggest a Banner to keep things calm until we can sort out what's going on."

>nod Sara
You nod to Saragos.

Madigan nods.

Navesi says, "It sounds to me like he has been manipulated and is not responsible for his actions but... I am not a judge."

Madigan says, "I haven't a clue m'lady."

Madigan smiles at Navesi.

Mazrian says, "What's going on is likely that the Baron considers Srinoja's band outlaws and Kauga's his first mate."

Mazrian says, "So we're going to go tweak the Baron's nose by taking his captive out from under him."

Mazrian says, "And, possibly, thereby tempt him into this battle on the other side."

Madigan says, "I think I would be walking the moat until I die if I did that."

Mazrian says, "So...let's consider that."

Madigan nods to Mazrian.

Navesi nods to Mazrian.

Saragos says to Mazrian, "We're inserting ourselves into a situation that we were already involved in, and he knows it.  It might just be that we can work our way out of pirate matters if we play this right."

Navesi asks, "Perhaps we can use a little diplomacy on the Baron? Or he might be... soothed by a little coin?"

Saragos nods to Navesi.

Mazrian says to Saragos, "I'm dubious, but we're already here."

Mazrian chuckles.

Madigan asks, "Mazrian, get your familiar ready to go?"

Madigan says, "First job is to locate the bugger."

>say Let's get a calm area and find Kauga first. We can decide what to do after.
You say, "Let's get a calm area and find Kauga first. We can decide what to do after."

[privatechannel] Whiteburn thinks, "Kauga is here, although he is badly injured. He needs assistance, quickly. We are within the Drogor altar outside of the enclave."

J>say }Madi Do you know where Drogor's altar is?
You ask Madigan, "Do you know where Drogor's altar is?"
 
[privatechannel] You hear your mental voice echo, "We are almost there."

Navesi says, "Ugh, it's still through the maze. You may have to go on without me."

>whisper Madig Kauga is injured, so if we get separated please meet me at Drogor's altar.
You whisper to Madigan, "Kauga is injured, so if we get separated please meet me at Drogor's altar."

Madigan nods to you.

Madigan says, "Drogor's altar is a safe room by the way everyone."

J>project Did you see anyone chasing him, or did he feel like he was being followed?
[privatechannel] You hear your mental voice echo, "Did you see anyone chasing him, or did he feel like he was being followed?"
You concentrate on projecting your thoughts.

[privatechannel] Whiteburn thinks, "Not as such. Although, a swift escape in a friendly ship would be the most ideal at this point in time. It is unknown how long we are to remain undiscovered on the pirates' island."

Mazrian says, "You know your life has gone wrong when Drogor's altar with Whiteburn is your place of sanctuary."

>chuckle
You chuckle.

Madigan chuckles.

Navesi chuckles.

Saragos grins at Mazrian.

Madigan says, "Ok. If Whiteburn has him, let's get him on the Slave and then we can start talking."

>nod
You nod.

Sailors quickly tie the Dragon's Slave to the sandy beach.

>say Let's go.
You say, "Let's go."

<travel, including an awful maze>

>go driftwood door
[Hara'jaal, Mud Hovel]
The hovel has been ransacked many times over, leaving nothing but the bare essentials.  A mat of palm fronds lies in one corner of the earth-packed floors along with a ratty blanket and serves as a bed.  A small firepit is centered in the room with a dented pot, filled with some odoriferous type of porridge, resting on a flat rock in the middle of the fire.  In one corner an altar has been created from an old ship's door and sits on two large pieces of driftwood.
You also see an enormous fiery fissure, a vicious Musparan koala bear (sitting) and a broken driftwood door.
Also here: Master Fool Echosong, Mazrian, Tempest Knight Saragos, Scurrilous Reprobate Enthien, Newswoman Navesi, Kraken Hunter Kauga and Inquisitor Whiteburn.
Obvious exits: none.
Madigan and Aislynn followed.

>pant
You pant.

>touch Kau
Kauga avoids your touch.

Saragos nods to you.

Madigan pants.

Mazrian nods to you.

>look kaug
You see Kraken Hunter Kauga, Son of Kauga, an Ogre Mercenary.
Kauga has a round, bullish face covered in a mess of scars.  His dark eyes narrow as he glances downward at you.  His nose is ridged and misaligned, presumably from a previous breakage.  Along the line of his chin, an iron plate is affixed to his square jawline.  Tufts of sparse facial hair descend from above his lip.  He has thick, leathery skin and a gargantuan build.
He is monstrous in size, even for an Ogre.
He is an adult.
The visible skin on his arms, shoulders, chest, and neck are covered in an intricate pattern of faded tattoos of words and images over old asperous scars, barely recognizable independently or discernible as having some long-forgotten meaning.

He has a deeply bruised head, a severely swollen and deeply bruised neck, a severely swollen and deeply bruised right arm, a severely swollen and deeply bruised left arm, a severely swollen and deeply bruised right leg, a severely swollen and deeply bruised left leg, a severely swollen and deeply bruised right hand, a severely swollen and deeply bruised left hand, severely swollen and bruised chest area, cuts and bruises about the back.

He is wearing a pair of heavy manacles that secure his arms behind his back with a knot of chains, an oversized leather back harness secured with straps that buckle across the chest, a splint mail mariner's hauberk of rusted metal banding riveted to storm-bull leather, a metal targe, a pair of well-worn overalls with unevenly rolled cuffs and some sea-worn leather boots rimmed with steel toe guards.

>smile kau
You smile at Kauga.

Whiteburn dryly says to Mazrian, "The baron's entourage are faithless men. Like as not, they do not even realize there is a Drogor altar here on 'their' island."

(Enthien studies the manacles carefully)

>say }Kau Hello friend! So glad to see you again!
You exclaim to Kauga, "Hello friend! So glad to see you again!"

Aislynn quietly asks Kauga, "Can I help heal you? Please?"

Aislynn shifts her weight.

A brief, high-pitched trill escapes Aislynn's throat as she fidgets worriedly.

Kauga nods to Aislynn.

Kauga says, "Please."

Mazrian quietly says to Whiteburn, "I wouldn't count on that."

Mazrian says, "Let's work fast."

>touch Kau
You touch Kauga.

You sense a successful empathic link has been forged between you and Kauga.

>[eh]: take kaug everything half
You touch Kauga.

Aislynn rests her hand on Kauga's arm with a soft smile.

Whiteburn nods to Mazrian.

Enthien says, "I don't even see a lock."

Kauga slowly empties his lungs.

>say }Kau I hope that feels a little better.
You say to Kauga, "I hope that feels a little better."

Navesi frowns.

Aislynn quietly exclaims to Kauga, "You are very brave!"

Saragos gives Kauga a studious look, as if committing him to memory.

Navesi says, "No lock? Perhaps we can shatter the manacles then."

Enthien says, "Oh, there's the lock."

>say }Whiteburn Have we discussed what to do next?
You ask Whiteburn, "Have we discussed what to do next?"

Navesi nods to Enthien.

Mazrian says, "If you can't pick the lock, I could likely cut it or burn through."

>look kaug
You see Kraken Hunter Kauga, Son of Kauga, an Ogre Mercenary.
Kauga has a round, bullish face covered in a mess of scars.  His dark eyes narrow as he glances downward at you.  His nose is ridged and misaligned, presumably from a previous breakage.  Along the line of his chin, an iron plate is affixed to his square jawline.  Tufts of sparse facial hair descend from above his lip.  He has thick, leathery skin and a gargantuan build.
He is monstrous in size, even for an Ogre.
He is an adult.
The visible skin on his arms, shoulders, chest, and neck are covered in an intricate pattern of faded tattoos of words and images over old asperous scars, barely recognizable independently or discernible as having some long-forgotten meaning.
He is in good shape.

He is wearing a pair of heavy manacles that secure his arms behind his back with a knot of chains, an oversized leather back harness secured with straps that buckle across the chest, a splint mail mariner's hauberk of rusted metal banding riveted to storm-bull leather, a metal targe, a pair of well-worn overalls with unevenly rolled cuffs and some sea-worn leather boots rimmed with steel toe guards.

Aislynn ponders.

Enthien says, "One sec, I can get this.  Let me make sure it's not... going to explode... or something."

>nod ent
You nod to Enthien.

Mazrian nods to Enthien.

Kauga nods to Enthien.

Kauga says to Enthien, "Good idea."

Kauga says to Enthien, "Kauga not think of that."

Aislynn frets.

Echosong whistles an excited tune.

(Enthien carefully probes the lock for a trap, magical or otherwise.)

Whiteburn says to you, "Kauga needs to escape from the Red Sash. He needs passage on a ship away from Hara'jaal, once he is freed from his restraints and healed of his injures."

>nod White
You nod to Whiteburn.

>say }White We've got the injuries taken care of.
You say to Whiteburn, "We've got the injuries taken care of."

Saragos nods to Whiteburn.

Whiteburn nods to you.

Madigan asks, "Is he being held by the Red Sash or the government of Hara?"

Mazrian says, "That's the same thing."

>nod mad
You nod to Madigan.

Saragos says to Madigan, "I'm not sure what the difference is."

Enthien removes a sandstone lockpick ring from her belt.

Enthien pulls a master's iron lockpick from her lockpick ring.

Enthien attaches a sandstone lockpick ring to her belt.

Kauga says to Madigan, "Angry guy with stupid mask.  Sorry -- angry guy with stupid mask and no nose."

Aislynn praises Kauga.

Saragos grins at Kauga.

Aislynn quietly asks Kauga, "You bit his nose off?"

Enthien's iron lockpick dances across her knuckles and she hardly seems to notice.

Enthien says, "Released."

(Whiteburn gazes furtively at the Drogor altar. )

>say /quietly }Madi What is your opinion on this?
You quietly ask Madigan, "What is your opinion on this?"

>raise eye
You arch your eyebrow.

Saragos says to Kauga, "Regardless of whatever else you've done, I appreciate the spirit of that."

Mazrian says, "Well done."

Enthien says, "Someone get the chains."

Enthien puts her iron lockpick on her lockpick ring.

Kauga struggles against the manacles, and with Enthien's help, his wrists are freed, leaving him tangled in chains.

>whisper Madi I'm not a huge fan of embroiling ourselves in a political war.
You whisper to Madigan, "I'm not a huge fan of embroiling ourselves in a political war."

Madigan says to you, "If we are foiling the Red Sash, then all good. If we are foiling the government of Hara, I am out."

Aislynn observes Kauga with fascination.

(Navesi begins immediately to work at disentangling the chains.)

(Whiteburn works to undo the chains from around Kauga.)

(Mazrian deftly helps to pull free the remaining chains)

(Aislynn helps tackle some of the chains.)

(Saragos assists with moving the heavy chains.)

Mazrian says to Madigan, "They're the same."

(Enthien steps aside to not get tangled in the crowd now pulling at the chains.)

Kauga steps out of the chains, stretching and rubbing his sore wrists.

Mazrian says, "This is likely, from our perspective, not the greatest idea."

Madigan asks Mazrian, "You think or you know?"

Whiteburn nods to Kauga.

Mazrian chuckles.

Mazrian says, "I know."

Aislynn shifts her weight.

Madigan nods.

Madigan says, "Done."

Madigan says, "Let's roll this pirate up and get him out of here then."

Kauga slowly empties his lungs.

Saragos says to Mazrian, "In any situation, the best thing to do is the right thing, the second best thing is the wrong thing, and the worst is nothing."

Enthien smirks at Saragos.

Mazrian gazes thoughtfully at Saragos.

>nibble dantia
You nibble your lip thoughtfully.

Kauga says to Saragos, "Kauga confused with what you say, but Kauga will agree.  You sound smart."

Mazrian says, "I swear, everyone is an idealist."

Mazrian sighs.

Navesi asks, "Well. Who wants to get him through that maze?"

Mazrian says, "Ok, let's get this done."

Aislynn looks at Navesi and blanches.

Aislynn quietly asks, "Can we get a gate?"

Saragos grins at Kauga.

Enthien casually observes the area.

Scurrilous Reprobate Enthien went through a broken driftwood door.

>whisper Madi For the record, I'm not entirely on board with this idea... perhaps it would be best that we NOT bring him to Therengia?
You whisper to Madigan, "For the record, I'm not entirely on board with this idea... perhaps it would be best that we NOT bring him to Therengia?"

Navesi says, "Low on Moon Mages lately."

Whiteburn says to Navesi, "I know how to traverse the streets of Hara'jaal, but I know not the location our ship."

Mazrian asks, "Kauga, can you follow me?"

>say Let's discuss the best place to take him before we jet off.
You say, "Let's discuss the best place to take him before we jet off."

Scurrilous Reprobate Enthien came through a broken driftwood door.

Aislynn quietly says, "Telamont is on the galleon on the beach."

Navesi says, "It's near where the Tasia'Zaul docks, I believe."

Aislynn quietly says, "Assuming it's still there."

Kauga joins Mazrian's group.

Mazrian nods to Aislynn.

Saragos says, "Seems the ship is our best shot.  Everything else is just keeping us in danger here on the island."

Navesi asks, "Telamont! Can he rift us?"

>say I don't think it would be wise to take Kauga to either Therengia or Zoluren, given their recent aid in the Naval engagement.
You say, "I don't think it would be wise to take Kauga to either Therengia or Zoluren, given their recent aid in the Naval engagement."

Mazrian says, "Ok, best egress is he drops a gate on us and we walk out."

Navesi joins Mazrian's group.

Navesi nods to Mazrian.

Whiteburn joins Mazrian's group.

Saragos joins Mazrian's group.

Enthien says, "We should move.  I can't imagine those lizards are much for the Baron Var'Quel."

Mazrian says, "I...don't see any scenario where you just go free from here."

Saragos nods to you.

Mazrian gazes at Kauga.

Mazrian says, "But wherever you end up is going to be better than here."

>say Or Ratha, for that matter.
You say, "Or Ratha, for that matter."

Mazrian asks, "Fair?"

Navesi says to you, "But... Ratha isn't great either."

Echosong ponders.

Navesi flashes a quick grin at you.

>nod nave
You nod to Navesi.

Kauga says to Mazrian, "Kauga agree."

Madigan says, "Actually, turning him over to the authorities of either Zoluren or Therengia may be the best approach."

Mazrian nods to Madigan.

Mazrian says, "I agree."

Madigan nods to Mazrian.

Madigan says, "Done."

Madigan joins Mazrian's group.

>join maz
You join Mazrian's group.

Enthien says, "Zoluren has a lovely jail. Been there quite a bit myself."

Aislynn joins Mazrian's group.

Enthien hums to herself.

Aislynn winces.

Mazrian says, "I'm going to signal Telamont."

>say }Madi Therengia? We might have a bit more pull to speak on his behalf.
You say to Madigan, "Therengia? We might have a bit more pull to speak on his behalf."

Echosong nods at Enthien, obviously agreeing with her views.

Aislynn nods to Mazrian.

Echosong says, "The Guards are a lot nicer than in Therengia."

Mazrian says, "See if he can get us out of here."

Enthien grins at Echosong.

Mazrian says, "If not, we're going to have to quick-foot it."

Aislynn quietly asks, "What about the rest of the crew of the Pursuit?"

Navesi says to Mazrian, "Let me know if you need an area free of creatures."

Madigan says to you, "Fair point Dantia. I know you would like to speak on his behalf."

Aislynn shifts her weight.

Mazrian says to Navesi, "That's going to be useful."

Mazrian nods.

Saragos asks Kauga, "Do you know what's happened to the rest of the crew?"

Aislynn gazes at Kauga.

Kauga says to Saragos, "Sash gave them a choice.  Join or be marooned."

Kauga says, "Not sure why Sash want them to be red."

Mazrian says, "Telamont's not responding.  I think we're going to have to make a break for it."

You get an odd feeling that someone is watching you.  It quickly passes.

Enthien says, "Red is a lovely color."

>get my eye from my portal
You get a carved ebony eye from inside a swirling eddy of incandescent light bound by a gold-striated coralite frame.

>rub my eye
You rub your eye.
Your eyes cloud over briefly as the magic in the eye takes hold.
You sense that Telamont just located you here, and you are able to backtrace his location to Beach, Hara'jaal.

>put my eye in my portal
You put your eye in the swirling eddy.

Mazrian says, "Ah, or not."

Saragos nods to Kauga.

>say That's Telamont.
You say, "That's Telamont."

Echosong ponders.

A black Moongate moves into the area with a shudder and an unearthly groan.
You happen to sense a Katamba moonbeam moving into the area.

Navesi nods to you.

Mazrian says, "Join up, please, if you're not already."

Echosong peers through the Moongate.

Navesi says, "Saved."

Soul Surgeon Zynell's group came through a black Moongate.

>group list
Members of your group:
  Enthien: Healthy, sleeping.
  Aislynn: Healthy.
  Madigan: Healthy, sleeping.
  You: Healthy, sleeping.
  Echosong: Healthy.
  Mazrian (Leader): Healthy, sleeping.
  Saragos: Healthy, sleeping.
  Navesi: Healthy.
  Kauga: Healthy.
  Whiteburn: Healthy.
There are 10 members in your group.

Mazrian's group went through a black Moongate.
[Beach, Hara'jaal]
The black sand beach stretches to either side of a makeshift stone quay.  Piles of wood stand off to one side of a jerry-rigged hut.  A short distance from the shanty, a large dug out pit, encircled by black stones, is lined with the remains of many fires.
You also see a black Moongate, the Reshalian Revenge, the Dragon's Slave and a driftwood plank.
Also here: Master Fool Echosong, Kraken Hunter Kauga, Newswoman Navesi, Inquisitor Whiteburn, Tempest Knight Saragos, Sir Madigan, Maunderer Aislynn, Scurrilous Reprobate Enthien, Mazrian and Mastermind Telamont.
Obvious paths: east, south, west.
Nearby in the water you see: a few ships.

From the distance, you are able to hear shouting that the ogre has been spotted!  A call goes up from within the palisades of Hara'Jaal.

Aislynn hugs Telamont, who wraps his arms around Aislynn with a warm smile.

>say We need to decide where we are taking him.
You say, "We need to decide where we are taking him."

Mazrian says, "Moving to the Slave."

Echosong says, "Uh oh."

Aislynn quietly exclaims, "To the ships, please!"

Soul Surgeon Zynell's group came through a black Moongate.

Aislynn frets.

J>say And if it's Therengia, I would highly suggest Madigan's boat.
You say, "And if it's Therengia, I would highly suggest Madigan's boat."

Navesi says, "Quickly."

Saragos says, "Time to get on the ship."

Whiteburn exclaims, "Swiftly!"

Mazrian designates Madigan as the new leader of the group.

Madigan climbs aboard the Dragon's Slave.

You follow Madigan onboard the ship.
[You are aboard a four-masted galleon with twelve sails and a fierce dragon figurehead named the Dragon's Slave which is afloat in The Reshal Sea facing north and is moored to a sandy beach.]
[The Dragon's Slave, Aft Waist]
Here the silver-hinged gangway is ever ready to release and secure the heavy mistwood boarding plank.  The railings are carved with detailed scenes of dragons along their length, while overhead the vivid blue and white sails obscure the view to the top of the mizzen mast far above.  A honeysuckle vine grows from a banded barrel placed out of the way, the plant flourishing despite the harsh elements it encounters.
You also see Beach, a ghostly white banner, the mizzen upper topsail, the mizzen lower topsail and the crossjack.
Also here: Tempest Knight Saragos, Inquisitor Whiteburn, Newswoman Navesi, Kraken Hunter Kauga, Master Fool Echosong and Sir Madigan.
Ship paths: forward, aft, down.
Nearby in the water you see: the Reshalian Revenge (adjacent), Tyvalger Bay (at horizon: south), Hara'jaal island (at horizon: south), a sandy beach (adjacent).

Mazrian nods to Madigan.

>say Decision made.
You say, "Decision made."

>chuckle
You chuckle.

A regiment of guards barge in, shouting at the Ogre -- unlike the mismatched and tattered pirates that secure Hara'Jaal, these humans are dressed in matching uniforms, and are very clearly prepared for this.  They quickly toss a heavily weighted net over the ogre, dragging him off of his feet and toward the shore.  "If Var'Quel cannot secure you, the Houses will.  His loss is our gain."  Without ceremony, they subdue the ogre, dragging him off into the distance to a waiting ship.

>gaze
You gaze off into the distance blankly.

Saragos stops guarding.

Echosong ponders.

Enthien frowns.

Saragos snarls.

Mazrian frowns.

>squint
You squint.

Navesi says, "Well. They were prepared."

Whiteburn rubs her scalp in agitation.

Whiteburn exclaims, "Tch!"

Aislynn scowls.

Pilot Sarahkyth says, "Very well, Captain, I will pilot the Dragon's Slave to the port of Riverhaven."
Pilot Sarahkyth says, "We launch in 2 minutes."

Aislynn's tail undulates in an agitated fashion.

>say The Houses? Ratha?
You ask, "The Houses? Ratha?"

Navesi says, "Looks like it."

(Mazrian narrows his eyes)

Mazrian says, "Ratha."

Saragos nods to you.

Echosong frowns.

>say Shall we sail?
You ask, "Shall we sail?"

Mazrian says, "Which is not, let's be clear, an unjust outcome."

Pilot Sarahkyth exclaims, "Aye, aye Captain!  Canceling all current commands!"

Navesi says, "It's not the worst."

Whiteburn asks, "Efficient... well calculated... how did they know?"

Mazrian says, "But let's go register some displeasure at their jumping juristiction."

Mazrian folds his arms across his chest.

>say They probably hear the gweths just as we do.
You say, "They probably hear the gweths just as we do."

Aislynn scowls.

Saragos says, "They've been watching us."

Navesi laughs softly, trying to hide her amusement.

Navesi says to Mazrian, "As if we have jurisdiction anywhere, really..."

Madigan makes a grunting noise.

>say That was almost as rude as murderboat, all of them coming aboard and netting him off.
You say, "That was almost as rude as murderboat, all of them coming aboard and netting him off."

Mazrian says, "We had him ,they came onto our boat.  That was unprofessional."

Madigan asks, "Someone tell Zynell and Sothios and crew?"

Echosong giggles.

Mazrian says, "Need to pick up Enthien."

Saragos says, "That was more than unprofessional."

Madigan nods.

>send Sothios Kauga was captured while on our boat, and taken by, we think, Rathan Houses.
[Personal] You think to Sothios, "Kauga was captured while on our boat, and taken by, we think, Rathan Houses."
You project your thoughts to Sothios.

Madigan stops you from following him.

Sir Madigan moves forward.

Echosong asks, "Where are we heading next?"

>say I've sent a thought to Sothios
You say, "I've sent a thought to Sothios."

>say I am not calling it a night until I do everything I can to speak on his behalf.
You say, "I am not calling it a night until I do everything I can to speak on his behalf."

Whiteburn asks you, "To Ratha?"

Navesi says, "I suppose we could try talking to the Baron, or the Rathan authorities, though I don't know if we have the energy for all that."

>say Even if that's yelling at the front of every Rathan House I can find.
You say, "Even if that's yelling at the front of every Rathan House I can find."

Mazrian ponders.

Navesi says, "I stand corrected. We have the energy."

Navesi flashes a quick grin at you.

>say I can't see him lasting through the night.
You say, "I can't see him lasting through the night."

Mazrian says, "I'm not offended that he's going to Rathan jail.  To be clear."

[privatechannel] Saragos thinks, "If anyone from the Houses is listening in here, you had better make yourselves known and explain this."

Mazrian says, "But we extracted him, he was ours to dispose of."

Mazrian folds his arms across his chest.

Echosong ponders.

Saragos says, "Right."

Saragos nods to Mazrian.

>say Yes, he was in custody and being brought back for a proper judgement.
You say, "Yes, he was in custody and being brought back for a proper judgement."

Aislynn sighs.

Saragos says, "If they're going to treat us as pawns and just march onto our ships without so much as a by-your-leave, then perhaps we should rethink our 'partnership'."

Saragos scowls.

Navesi frowns.

[General] Mazrian thinks, "If you wanted him you should have taken the risk.  There will be an accounting."

[General] Donntae thinks, "He's safe?"

[General] Mazrian thinks, "For a given value of safe."

Madigan says, "Ok."

[General] Mazrian thinks, "The Rathan Houses took him off of our boat after we extracted him."

>command sarah to sail for Ratha
Pilot Sarahkyth says, "Very well, Master, I will pilot the Dragon's Slave to the city of Ratha."
Pilot Sarahkyth says, "We launch in 2 minutes."

Madigan asks, "Ok, where we sailing? Ratha?"

>nod mad
You nod to Madigan.

Madigan nods.

Mazrian nods.

Mazrian says, "Let's see if we can beat them there."

Whiteburn says, "His gwethdesuan has not be removed, or deactivated. It is possible that we may yet be able to locate him via his own thoughts."

Enthien asks, "Rathan prisons are not nearly as nice as the prisons in Crossing.  Do they have stocks in Ratha?"

Enthien ponders.

[General] Saragos thinks, "Indeed.  If the Houses think that they can just march on to our ships without so much as a word, then I think some arrangements need to be reexamined."

Mazrian says, "Only recreationally."

[General] Vosek thinks, "Sounds like a political prisoner now, which is much worse."

Mazrian shakes his head.

J>think Kauga, can you still hear us?
[General] You hear your mental voice echo, "Kauga, can you still hear us?"
You concentrate on projecting your thoughts.

Whiteburn paces back and forth.

Whiteburn glances up at the sky.

[General] Kauga thinks, "Kauga hears even in bottom of tiny boat."

Pilot Sarahkyth calls out, "Cast off!"
The Dragon's Slave appears busy with activity as sailors begin hoisting in the tie-lines.

[General] Enthien thinks, "Even I know better when kidnapping someone that you ensure they don't have gweths."

Madigan makes a grunting noise.

Enthien says, "Amateurs."

Navesi quietly says to herself, "Hara'jaal prison is the worst."

Navesi gazes off into the distance.

Madigan says, "That maze is the worst."

Enthien says, "The maze was lovely."

[General] Randoon thinks, "He was allowed to use the one he has to make a statement denouncing Srinoja earlier"

>think I think the people you are with are going to put you safely in a cell. Can you promise not to bite any of them? We are following just behind you and will talk to them for you.
[General] You hear your mental voice echo, "I think the people you are with are going to put you safely in a cell. Can you promise not to bite any of them? We are following just behind you and will talk to them for you."
You concentrate on projecting your thoughts.

[General] Enthien thinks, "And now the Houses of Ratha have kidnapped him and left the gweth firmly placed upon his head."

Aislynn paces back and forth.

Aislynn shifts her weight.

>say /quietly We can't have him biting them if we're going to try to talk his punishment down...
You quietly say, "We can't have him biting them if we're going to try to talk his punishment down..."

Mazrian ponders.

[General] Enthien thinks, "Kauga, no kicking, poking or punching either."

>nod enth
You nod to Enthien.

Mazrian says, "I think piracy only has one sentence."

Mazrian shrugs.

Mazrian says, "They can't really hang you twice."

Mazrian asks, "When we hit Ratha, do we go to the jail or the Palace?"

Enthien gazes at Mazrian.

Madigan says, "Well, I do not think busting Kauga out from Ratha is the right plan."

Aislynn quietly says, "Could go wake up Moglin. He'd love that."

Aislynn chortles softly at some secret joke.

Aislynn clicks her claws together.

Navesi rubs her head.

Mazrian says, "Busting him out, definitely not."

Navesi says, "Too bad we don't have the diplomat with us."

Mazrian says, "But I will speak to some guard's supervisor."

Mazrian dusts himself off.

>say I think we head to the Palace and ask that he be returned to us for trial in Therengia.
You say, "I think we head to the Palace and ask that he be returned to us for trial in Therengia."

[Personal] Kauga thinks, "At least these guys nicer than angry guy.  Talking about judges and stuff.  Even say Kauga get an execution, whatever that is.  Kauga think they have surprise party for Kauga?"

Mazrian nods to you.

>say Kauga just reached out to me...
You say, "Kauga just reached out to me..."

J>say He says... At least these guys nicer than angry guy.  Talking about judges and stuff.  Even say Kauga get an execution, whatever that is.  Kauga think they have surprise party for Kauga?
You ask, "He says... At least these guys nicer than angry guy.  Talking about judges and stuff.  Even say Kauga get an execution, whatever that is.  Kauga think they have surprise party for Kauga?"

>gulp
You gulp.

Aislynn growls ferociously!

Madigan raises an eyebrow.

Madigan says, "Gads."

Mazrian asks, "I mean...not..unreasonable?"

Mazrian shrugs.

Enthien asks, "Srinoja had many lives before her final end.  Wonder how many times the gods will return Kauga to his body?"

Saragos says, "It may be the heat of the moment, but I'm on the edge of saying we just go bust him out of jail."

Madigan says, "I would like for them to take him somewhere without a maze or lifts."

Madigan grins.

Saragos says, "All this time, we've been under the impression that we're working WITH them to eradicate the scourge of the Lich.  Today, it's been made clear that they believe we work FOR them."

Saragos says, "I do not work FOR them, and I would like to disabuse them of the notion."

Aislynn quietly says, "He's not... competent. He wasn't the mastermind behind anything. Surely they'll see that."

Aislynn shifts her weight.

Whiteburn says, "Criminals must face consequences for their crimes. However, Kauga's exact... talents... would prove a great boon in our upcoming sortie. It would be a shame to see him executed, when he could be enlisted to aid us against the undead kraken."

Enthien sadly says to Saragos, "Oh darling."

Mazrian says, "I'm not sure breaking him out of jail is the best way to express that, Saragos, though I agree."

Saragos says to Mazrian, "It would certainly send a message."

J>send Kauga Nicer is better! But see, they are upset because you are were a pirate, especially under Srinoja, who they disliked very much. Perhaps you could tell them that you were only following her orders?
[Personal] You think to Kauga, "Nicer is better! But see, they are upset because you are were a pirate, especially under Srinoja, who they disliked very much. Perhaps you could tell them that you were only following her orders?"
You project your thoughts to Kauga.

Mazrian says, "We need a solicitor."

Madigan says, "Therenia has a treaty with House Moglin, most assuredly are we not breaking the bloody pirate out of a Rathan jail."

Mazrian ponders.

Enthien says, "I've no such treaty."

Enthien gazes at her fingernails.

J>say I'm trying to keep him calm, and explain that they are mad because he was a pirrate and following Srinoja. I've asked if he could try telling them he was only following her orders.
You say, "I'm trying to keep him calm, and explain that they are mad because he was a pirrate and following Srinoja. I've asked if he could try telling them he was only following her orders."

Saragos says, "He probably shouldn't say anything at all, to the extent that this is a fair trial."

Whiteburn says to you, "You are doing well."

Aislynn's tail undulates in an agitated fashion.

J>say Yes, he should face punishment, but I cannot easily condemn someone who clearly does not understand the scope of what they were roped into.
You say, "Yes, he should face punishment, but I cannot easily condemn someone who clearly does not understand the scope of what they were roped into."

Saragos says, "Maz is right, we need a solicitor."

Madigan nods to Saragos.

J>smile white
You smile at Whiteburn.

Aislynn quietly says, "A whipping would convince him never to do it again. No one learns from death. At least.. Not one like him."

[General] Mazrian thinks, "If the Houses execute Kauga before he can be properly debriefed on the mainland there will be an interprovincial incident, and you will lose much of your ground force.  If you are on that boat and hearing this, kick it up to higher and meet us on the Neh dock."

[General] Mazrian thinks, "Have someone acknowledge this gweth.  I know someone is able to retransmit it."

You pass into the port of Ratha on the southern edge of Reshalia.

[General] Vosek thinks, "Well that sounds fun, I kind of want to see him executed now."

Enthien asks, "Where are we meeting?"

Whiteburn asks, "Have we come to an agreement on where we reconvene once we make landfall?"

J>say Let's move to the Neh dock and see if anyone meets us, as Maz has tried to negotiate.
You say, "Let's move to the Neh dock and see if anyone meets us, as Maz has tried to negotiate."

Madigan asks, "Mazrian, you have your famliar on him?"

Whiteburn nods to you.

Mazrian asks, "We'll hit the Neh dock, see if anyone answers.  If not, at the Palace.  Works?"

Mazrian gets a bear talisman from inside his black backpack.

>nod Maz
You nod to Mazrian.

Madigan says, "Done."

Whiteburn nods to Mazrian.

Saragos nods to Mazrian.

Mazrian says, "He's unfindable by familiar."

>say I have not heard back from Kauga yet.
You say, "I have not heard back from Kauga yet."

Pilot Sarahkyth barks the order to tie off the Slave to the docks.

Madigan says, "Last time we were on Ratha...oof."

Madigan grins at you.

>chuckle
You chuckle.

>say }Mad Yes well, nothing like making new memories.
You say to Madigan, "Yes well, nothing like making new memories."

Madigan just disembarked.

You follow Madigan off of the ship.
[Neh Dock, Port of Ratha]
Wide and well-built, this dock was made to accommodate the heavy caravans that pass over it daily.  Workers load and unload ships in an almost endless flurry of activity.
You also see the Dragon's Slave, the Reshal Queen, an ebony slate and the Kree'la's schedule.
Also here: Newswoman Navesi, Mazrian and Sir Madigan.
Obvious paths: north, south.
Nearby in the water you see: the main docks (adjacent), The Middle Neh dock (adjacent), the Uaro Dock (far), the open ocean (distant), several ships.

Whiteburn asks, "Should I make preparations for combat?"

>exhale
You slowly and deliberately empty your filled lungs.

Mazrian shakes his head.

Madigan says, "I do not think so Whiteburn."

>say Very doubtful.
You say, "Very doubtful."

Aislynn paces back and forth.

Mazrian says, "If we do this now, here, it'll be by administrative dueling."

>mychar is very worried about Kauga. She wants him to have a fair trial, and be punished, but death is extreme in this case.
Dantia is very worried about Kauga. She wants him to have a fair trial, and be punished, but death is extreme in this case.

Mazrian says, "Assuming there is anyone to duel with."

Mazrian scans the area briefly.

Enthien asks, "Administrative... dueling?"

>say For once, I agree with the plan of talking and negotiating.
You say, "For once, I agree with the plan of talking and negotiating."

>grin
You grin.

Mazrian says, "Well.  The sort of thing we need a solicitor for."

Mazrian sighs.

Madigan asks, "I would guess the Therengian treaty would carry the most weight in the argument. Ask for him to be turned over to the Baron?"

Madigan raises an eyebrow.

Mazrian says, "But we'll have to make due."

Mazrian nods to Madigan.

Navesi says, "I am a fair enough diplomat when needed, you know."

Enthien says, "From one baron to the next, surely he'll think that's lovely."

A shout goes out through the streets of Ratha, as a crier makes a proclamation known: "The Ogre pirate Kauga has been taken into custody for trial, and is charged with treason, sedition, crimes against Reshalia, and piracy.  He will face trial as fitting any who are charged with crimes in Reshalia."

Aislynn scowls.

>grumble
You grumble.

Mazrian says, "Cards on the table, he's likely to be executed either way."

Saragos mutters to himself.

Whiteburn says to Mazrian, "Your assessment is sound."

>say Perhaps our best course of action at this point is to appeal to the Baron?
You ask, "Perhaps our best course of action at this point is to appeal to the Baron?"

Saragos says, "We might not have time."

Saragos says, "Trial might be happening very quickly."

>say I am happy to be angry woman yelling at Palace gates here, but I don't want to undermine what might need higher diplomacy.
You say, "I am happy to be angry woman yelling at Palace gates here, but I don't want to undermine what might need higher diplomacy."

>nibble dantia
You nibble your lip thoughtfully.

Whiteburn says, "I agree with Saragos."

>nod slight
You give a slight nod.

Madigan nods to Saragos.

Madigan asks, "Where would they hold the trial?"

Madigan asks, "Palace?"

(Mazrian grabs a passing customs official, gives him his best glare, and sends him to the Palace to fetch someone in authority.)

Aislynn nods.

Whiteburn observes Mazrian with fascination.

Enthien chortles softly at some secret joke.

A shout goes out through the streets of Ratha, as a crier makes a proclamation known: "Due to the nature of his crimes, the Houses of Ratha have noted that it be only fair that, instead of an appointed judge, the Council of Advisors will appoint Khoheke Moglin to preside over the trial of this barbarous pirate."

Saragos says, "We might start checking with Malk'smo on the fourth tier."

J>say /quietly }Madi Oh, he's giving them the Mazrian Glare.
You quietly say to Madigan, "Oh, he's giving them the Mazrian Glare."

Enthien falls to the ground laughing hysterically!

Aislynn folds her arms across her chest.

Mazrian says, "Oof."

Enthien says, "Oh Khoheke."

Madigan says, "Ok, Khoheke Moglin."

Saragos says, "Khoheke at least has some motivation to listen to us."

>nod
You nod.

Mazrian chuckles.

Navesi nods.

Aislynn quietly says, "He knows what's at stake."

Aislynn nods.

Madigan says, "I was about to say, if you want to speak for the pirate, Khoheke will probably listen."

>say /quietly At risk of sounding creepy, does anyone know where Khoheke resides?
You quietly ask, "At risk of sounding creepy, does anyone know where Khoheke resides?"

A shout goes out through the streets of Ratha, as a crier makes a proclamation known: "Per the request of House Moglin, the ogre will be granted a stay on the trial, and it will be held until such a time that the full impact of his involvement in the events on Basalt Island are known."

>beam
You beam!

>say A stay!
You exclaim, "A stay!"

Mazrian chuckles.

Saragos shakes his head at you.

Mazrian says, "Ahhhh I like that setup."

Navesi nods.

Saragos says, "Well, that at least gives us time to work."

Aislynn nods.

Mazrian says, "Now we're getting somewhere."

>exhale
You slowly and deliberately empty your filled lungs.

Madigan says, "Well, there we go."

Mazrian says, "Now, we just need to arrange a quiet conversation with Kauga."

>say /quietly }Madi We're going to need to hire Greyhallow's agency. I'm going to need lots of couriers.
You quietly say to Madigan, "We're going to need to hire Greyhallow's agency. I'm going to need lots of couriers."

Mazrian says, "And possibly with Khoheke."

The crier briefly editorializes, expressing his disappointment at the fact that there will not be an execution today, before meandering away.

Mazrian nods to you.

Aislynn quietly says, "And gives him time to... perhaps.. contribute to the resolution of those events. Perhaps. If Khoheke's feeling brilliant. And not missing his hand too much."

Madigan asks, "Maybe we can use the pirate in the fight?"

Mazrian nods at Madigan, obviously agreeing with his views.

Madigan adjusts his half plate.

Mazrian says, "Make him an offer he can't refuse."

Mazrian says, "...hopefully not an offer he can't understand."

Mazrian sighs.

Navesi asks, "Work off his crime?"

>send Kauga Kauga, listen to me very carefully. They are going to hold you for a few days, and we need you to be on your best behavior. The nicer you are, the easier time we will have of getting you out. Do you understand?
[Personal] You think to Kauga, "Kauga, listen to me very carefully. They are going to hold you for a few days, and we need you to be on your best behavior. The nicer you are, the easier time we will have of getting you out. Do you understand?"
You project your thoughts to Kauga.

(Aislynn rubs her left hand absently against her dress.)

Aislynn nods to Navesi.

Aislynn shifts her weight.

Mazrian says, "Well he IS a kraken-hunter."

>say He has not responded to me, but I just said...
You say, "He has not responded to me, but I just said..."

>say Kauga, listen to me very carefully. They are going to hold you for a few days, and we need you to be on your best behavior. The nicer you are, the easier time we will have of getting you out. Do you understand?
You ask, "Kauga, listen to me very carefully. They are going to hold you for a few days, and we need you to be on your best behavior. The nicer you are, the easier time we will have of getting you out. Do you understand?"

Whiteburn nods at Madigan, obviously agreeing with his views.

Whiteburn says, "We have need of such an one."

Aislynn nods.

Saragos says, "Maybe.  We also need to make contact with Var'Quel."

Enthien gazes at Saragos.

Saragos says, "Like I said before, we need to peel them off the defense of the Basalt Isle if we can."

[Personal] Kauga thinks, "Kauga think so.  Kauga try to be good.  They gave Kauga dinner, so Kauga may be okay for now."

>beam
You beam!

>say He says.... Kauga think so.  Kauga try to be good.  They gave Kauga dinner, so Kauga may be okay for now."
You say, "He says.... Kauga think so.  Kauga try to be good.  They gave Kauga dinner, so Kauga may be okay for now."

Mazrian says, "They weren't in on the defense to begin with, I think."

Mazrian ponders.

Madigan grins at you.

Saragos nods to Mazrian.

Enthien says, "Perhaps a different house can be helpful with that."

Aislynn beams at you!  What a warm feeling!

Mazrian gazes thoughtfully at Enthien.

Mazrian thoughtfully says, "Perhaps you're right."

Saragos says, "That's correct, as I understand it.  But we should at least have a conversation.  Make sure there won't be any surprises."

Mazrian says, "Alright.  Let's try to work three meetings.  One, with Khoheke.  Another, with Kauga to make sure he's well treated and understands his...opportunity."

Whiteburn says, "He is obedient and gods-fearing, and I detected that he carries favor with the Immortals. I do not sense any malign intent from the man. He is useful to us. I do not intend to make light of his crimes, but he could very well be made to serve House Moglin as he served Srinoja."

>send Kauga Wonderful! And if you get bored, send out a thought on your thinky device! There are all manner of people that can keep you company!
[Personal] You think to Kauga, "Wonderful! And if you get bored, send out a thought on your thinky device! There are all manner of people that can keep you company!"
You project your thoughts to Kauga.

Mazrian says, "And a third, with the Red Sash...though I expect that to go poorly.  Maybe something can be salvaged."

Saragos nods to Mazrian.

Mazrian asks, "Does that sound reasonable?"

Whiteburn asks Mazrian, "What use have we in treating with the pirates?"

[Personal] Kauga thinks, "Thank you.  Thinky rock kinda work here, kinda not work here.  Kauga try to sit near window."

Navesi asks, "You think we can get the Sash to refuse to back the Lich?"

Mazrian says to Navesi, "I'm not sure they were backing the Lich at all."

Mazrian shakes his head.

Saragos nods to Mazrian.

>say He says he finds better thinky-rock reception when he sits near the window.
You say, "He says he finds better thinky-rock reception when he sits near the window."

> giggle
You giggle.

Mazrian chuckles.

Saragos says, "Maybe they were mad at Srinoja in the first place for working with the Lich.  But we should at least find out."

Whiteburn gives a slight nod.

Mazrian nods.

Whiteburn says, "Very well."

Madigan says, "Out for me talking with the Red Sash."

Madigan says, "Pirates."

Navesi asks Madigan, "Does that mean you disapprove?"

Madigan says, "Going to be mad already since we just took the ogre out from under their noses."

Mazrian nods to Madigan.

Mazrian says, "I suspect that's correct."

Madigan says, "And...you can't trust a word they say anyway."

Enthien grins at Madigan.

Mazrian says, "Also probably correct."

>chuckle
You chuckle.

>say Okay, so who is doing what?
You ask, "Okay, so who is doing what?"

>raise eye
You arch your eyebrow.

Mazrian says, "If we keep them out of the next phase, though, under whatever pretext, all to the good."

> say And where am I needed?
You ask, "And where am I needed?"

Mazrian says, "Fight the enemies you have to and not the ones you don't, and all."

[Personal] Kauga thinks, "Kauga probably try to sleep, though.  Kauga has bunk and dinner.  Kauga hopes you get nice bunk and dinner.  Thank people for helping Kauga."

> say Kauga says... Kauga probably try to sleep, though.  Kauga has bunk and dinner.  Kauga hopes you get nice bunk and dinner.  Thank people for helping Kauga.
You say, "Kauga says... Kauga probably try to sleep, though.  Kauga has bunk and dinner.  Kauga hopes you get nice bunk and dinner.  Thank people for helping Kauga."

Mazrian asks Saragos, "You've had the most contact with Khoheke and this is, more than anything, your lead.  Will you contact him?"

Saragos nods to Mazrian.

Enthien says, "Prison for Kauga is likely as pleasant as being on Srinoja's ship."

>send Kauga Yes, that is a wonderful idea. Lay down and sleep well, although I'm sure you would prefer to be rocked by a boat! We will speak again very soon, I'm sure. Good night!
[Personal] You think to Kauga, "Yes, that is a wonderful idea. Lay down and sleep well, although I'm sure you would prefer to be rocked by a boat! We will speak again very soon, I'm sure. Good night!"
You project your thoughts to Kauga.

Mazrian nods to Enthien.

Mazrian asks Enthien, "Can you use your contacts to...well, see what can be arranged?"

Saragos says, "I will, but I want to get any legal language right, and make certain of any demands."

Mazrian nods at Saragos, obviously agreeing with his views.

Enthien says to Mazrian, "I can... see what I can do."

Mazrian gives a slight nod.

> nod
You nod.

Whiteburn says to you, "Please tell Kauga that I am sorry to have led to his recapture. I did not intend for events to conclude quite this way."

Saragos asks, "Do we REALLY care about having him debriefed on the Mainland, or was that all just about making sure he didn't get killed before we could sort things out?"

Mazrian asks you, "Perhaps you could work a way to get in and see Kauga?"

> pat white
You pat Whiteburn on the back.

Mazrian says to Saragos, "The second thing."

Mazrian chuckles.

> say }White He just told me that he was going to lay down on the nice bed they gave him and go to sleep.
You say to Whiteburn, "He just told me that he was going to lay down on the nice bed they gave him and go to sleep."

> say }White But I will be sure to mention it if I speak to him again, I promise.
You say to Whiteburn, "But I will be sure to mention it if I speak to him again, I promise."

Whiteburn nods to you.

Mazrian says, "It sounds like his life is now contingent on whether he's willing to help us take Basalt, likely by kraken hunting."

Saragos asks you, "How is he communicating with you?"

Mazrian says, "Which...honestly suits me fine."

Whiteburn says, "I never properly introduced myself. Perhaps he will remember me, nevertheless."

> say }Sara Through his thinky rock.
You say to Saragos, "Through his thinky rock."

> say /quietly I mean gweth.
You quietly say, "I mean gweth."

> babb
You babble unintelligibly for a while.

Madigan says, "If you care about him, probably a trial on Ratha is better than Therengia. I doubt the Baron will give him mercy for his service with Srinja."

Saragos grins at you.

Navesi nods.

Mazrian slowly empties his lungs.

> say }Maz Yes, I can see what I can do about getting in to see him and explain what is going on. Perhaps with a bit of help from Saragos.
You say to Mazrian, "Yes, I can see what I can do about getting in to see him and explain what is going on. Perhaps with a bit of help from Saragos."

Mazrian nods at you, obviously agreeing with your views.

Mazrian asks, "Can anyone else think of an angle they could work?"

> say Do we need to address their boarding the Slave and apprehending him from our custody?
You ask, "Do we need to address their boarding the Slave and apprehending him from our custody?"

Mazrian says to you, "Oh all kinds of yes."

Madigan grins.

> say Or anything related to our smuggling a clear prisoner out of Hara'Jaal.
You say, "Or anything related to our smuggling a clear prisoner out of Hara'Jaal."

> chuckle
You chuckle.

Enthien asks, "Did they really board or just throw the net really far?"

Enthien says, "It was hard to see in all the chaos."

Mazrian says to you, "...that part might be awkward, or not."

Mazrian chuckles.

Madigan chuckles.

Mazrian says, "It looked like they bullied their way past the guard on the gangplank and just took him out from under our noses."

Saragos nods to Mazrian.

Enthien says, "In any event, I'm sure they'll claim they were justified."

Whiteburn says to Mazrian, "Is there aught I can do? That ... abomination... must needs be excised. Kauga is, perhaps, our most effective means to destroy it. However... my diplomatic skills are, sadly, lacking."

> chuckle
You chuckle.

> smile white
You smile at Whiteburn.

> say }White It's good to know our strengths and weaknesses.
You say to Whiteburn, "It's good to know our strengths and weaknesses."

> nod
You nod.

Mazrian ponders.

Saragos nods to Whiteburn.

Mazrian says to Whiteburn, "As Drogor's chief adherant, at least that i know of, you are probably the cloest thing to a kraken expert we have except for him."

Saragos says to Whiteburn, "I understand.  His expertise will be useful in that."

Whiteburn nods to Mazrian.

Madigan adjusts his half plate.

Mazrian asks Whiteburn, "Why not preach the word that this kraken is an abhomination, and that a kraken hunter would be a holy instrument of drogor?"

> hug mad tight
You pull Madigan to you in a tight hug.

Mazrian says, "Couldn't hurt."

Madigan raises an eyebrow in your direction.

Madigan grins at you.

Madigan gently kisses you on the forehead.

Saragos says, "He did shelter in Drogor's shrine."

Whiteburn says to Mazrian, "I will do this."

Enthien paces back and forth.

> say /quietly }madi That was an adventure, hm?
You quietly ask Madigan, "That was an adventure, hm?"

Aislynn quietly says, "He prayed to Drogor in his hour of need, as well."

Aislynn's tail undulates passively just above the ground.

Whiteburn nods at Aislynn, obviously agreeing with her views.

Madigan says, "Yes, well...I am still not entirely sure why we care about the fellow dear."

Madigan smiles at you.

Mazrian says to Navesi, "If I could suggest, and I would never do more than that, the paper would likely be an invaluable aid in setting the right scenario."

Enthien grins at Madigan.

Whiteburn says to Aislynn, "That is when I decided to grant him aid."

Navesi rubs her head.

Aislynn nods at Whiteburn, obviously agreeing with her views.

Navesi says, "I have a terrible headache today, and already three articles on the backlog..."

Navesi sighs.

Navesi says, "But I'll see what I can do."

Mazrian nods.

Navesi says, "I might add it to the naval battle one."

Mazrian nods in agreement.

Enthien says, "Writing sounds terribly unpleasant."

Mazrian says, "Having a kraken hunter in captivity and highly motivated to work for us seems like it solves a couple of problems for us."

> say }Madi Because he's, for all intents and purposes, just a young, naive soldier under a commander who was doing bad things. He may have aided in them, but I truly don't think he knew what he was doing.
You say to Madigan, "Because he's, for all intents and purposes, just a young, naive soldier under a commander who was doing bad things. He may have aided in them, but I truly don't think he knew what he was doing."

Aislynn nods to you.

> say }Madiga And I cannot just watch a lowly soldier die purely because a commander took advantage of them. Not without saying something, or trying.
You say to Madigan, "And I cannot just watch a lowly soldier die purely because a commander took advantage of them. Not without saying something, or trying."

Mazrian gazes thoughtfully at you.

Aislynn quietly says, "I'm worried he'll be scapegoated as the only one the people of Qi can get their hands on to punish. He shouldn't suffer for Srinoja's lunacy. Not for all of it."

Madigan says to you, "Dear, then I will of course help in any way possible to allow you to speak on his behalf."

> nod
You nod.

Madigan smiles at you.

Madigan gently kisses you on the forehead.

Enthien says, "We all choose our jobs and the consequences that go with them."

Whiteburn asks Mazrian, "Do you suppose I should make such appeal in writing to House Moglin, or await the opportunity to present such arguments in a meeting with the Commodore?"

Madigan says, "But, it is likely he will hang dear."

Madigan frowns.

Mazrian says to Whiteburn, "You know, I think you are at your best when you're out with the people speaking to them directly."

Navesi says, "I would write, in case we can't get an audience."

Madigan says, "Rathian are not sympathetic to pirates I would guess."

> say }madi That is for the court, or Khoheke, to decide and live with. I will live with my actions.
You say to Madigan, "That is for the court, or Khoheke, to decide and live with. I will live with my actions."

Mazrian says to Whiteburn, "And also write, yes."

Whiteburn matter-of-factly says, "If the man is found guilty and summarily executed, then I will not stand in the way of justice. Judgment comes for all, and the law must needs be respected. I wish to make my intend perfectly clear to all that I fully intend on seeing this kraken severed from undead servitude, with or without the aid of Kauga, though I owe he would make a useful ally shouldst House Moglin acquiesce."

Mazrian raises an eyebrow.

Mazrian nods to Whiteburn.

Mazrian says, "Fair.  And not an unjust outcome, were it to come to that."