>>3256917
>'Why the hell not? Figure I'll eat good for a while at least.' (Risky)

I usually go Cautious route, let's get crazy.

>>3256917
>>'Why the hell not? Figure I'll eat good for a while at least.' (Risky)

>>3256917
Real quick intro thingy here folks. Hi! I'm QuestPhreak! New to this QMing thing. Pretty simple quest. The setting is (obviously) set in a 16-19th century world where the sea reigns supreme. Although it's not your typical swashbuckling story. It's more like PoTC and Sea of Thieves on crack. Something I made as a kid and just never really worked on.

Voting is qst standard. You vote, and 10-20 minutes later, I update with the most popular votes. Write-ins will be allowed unless otherwise stated. Hope you all enjoy!

>>3256928
>>3256945
Looks like we're going with risky. Writing.

>>3256953
Nice! Thank you! Never played either of those, so it'll be new for me too.

>>3256953
>>3256961
‘Why the hell not?’ You lift your shoulder up and let it fall just as quickly. ‘Figure I’ll eat good for a while at least. What is it you’re needin’ me to do?’

‘Simple. At nightfall we have a ship comin’ in, the Del Mar. She’s bringing in...well worth her weight in trouble.’

You fold your arms, clearly not satisfied with that response. The sailor relents, then continues with a sigh. ‘Gold, street rat! The King’s gold--quarter of what that fat bastard owns! We’re needing a little extra...help securing it. Give ya yer own flintshot an’ everything in case anyone be gettin’ a swollen sack. Ya follow, brat?’

You nod vigorously. Yeah, you get it. It’s a simple security job, and with Panoke being so backwater and boring, it’s likely to remain just that. You’ll likely spend more time spinning and playing with the flintshot more than pulling its hammer back. And you got to rub elbows with seamen--actual seamen! If you do a good job, maybe you can get a recommendation to the Navigator School...and then you’ll be in the navy...and then your own ship...and then-

‘So, brat. You thinkin’ yer up fer the job? Or am I wasting my time on ye?’

‘S-sure! Count me in, uh--sir!’

The sailor’s grin reappears again. ‘This tavern. Nightfall. Don’t be late.’ And like that, he vanishes inside the tavern for a day of drink and merriment. That leaves you with a whole bunch of hours to do whatever you wanted. You could go find Renne, tell her the good news. Maybe even recruit her into the mix? You wouldn’t want to do anything like this without her given that she’s as much of a sea dreamer as you. But you were wanting to try maybe getting into Navigator School again, or going to visit Old Man Juan. His stories of his days as a sailor -- true or false -- always managed to put you right into the world he built with his words.

How will you spend your time?

>Go find Renne. She’s your best and only friend. She deserves to know about your “mission” tonight.
>Try to volunteer for service at the Navigator School.
>Go visit Old Man Juan and have him tell you a story about the sea.

>>3256972
They're okay. PoTC is better as a film than a game unless you don't mind cheaply-made MMOs (guilty pleasure). Sea of Theives is worth a try for sure, but I'll have to plug Skull & Bones or Assassin's Creed 4 over it.

>>3257002
>Go visit Old Man Juan and have him tell you a story about the sea.

>>3257002
>>Go find Renne. She’s your best and only friend. She deserves to know about your “mission” tonight

>>3257002
>Go find Renne. She’s your best and only friend. She deserves to know about your “mission” tonight.

A future sea-captain's only as good as his crewmates.

Finding Renne it is! Writing. I hope I still remember her personality.

>>3257010
>>3257014
You decide to go find Renne because you HAVE to tell her about this! And maybe she’ll even join this little operation! Without further delay, you’re off through the dirt avenues that make up Panoke Cove’s town. Not many people are out at one time except during holidays, so you’re easily weaving past what little traffic there is with confidence, because you know right where your partner-in-crime is. If she isn’t with you by now, she’s at your spot. Your little slice of home away from school and the day-to-day dullness of this place.

You’re outside of it within minutes, a little dirty having taken the shortcut through the schoolyard to get there. The sign you both made years ago from old discarded wood and green paint. “Turtle Place”, you called it. Not for any particular reason other than you both liked turtles as kids. You suppose you don’t hate them as teens, but they aren’t your favourite animal anymore.

She’s by the tree, the only one in this part of Turtle Place, striking it repeatedly with a wooden sword. She’s calling it names like “bilge rat” and “bottom feeder”, but clearly in jest. Having fun, as always. That’s one thing you loved about her; her ability to find fun in every situation, even the sad ones. It was her that cheered you up back when you were both kids, and you were teased for being an orphan. You didn’t understand why you had no parents, only that you had none and the other kids had at least one. Renne, being an orphan too, understood completely. You two have been inseparable since your days as tots.

>Call out to her and go tell her the good news.
>Run and tacklehug her to the ground and roughhouse a bit before telling her.
>Grab a stick and approach her as an enemy seaman, ready to do battle with her. You’ve been wanting a rematch since yesterday’s spar.

>>3257062
>Grab a stick and approach her as an enemy seaman, ready to do battle with her. You’ve been wanting a rematch since yesterday’s spar.

HAVE AT YE, YA SCURVY SEADOG!

>>3257062
>Grab a stick and approach her as an enemy seaman, ready to do battle with her. You’ve been wanting a rematch since yesterday’s spar.

>>3257062
>Grab a stick and approach her as an enemy seaman, ready to do battle with her. You’ve been wanting a rematch since yesterday’s spar.

>>3257072
>>3257093
>>3257096
Sorry. Girlfriend and things distracting me.

You begin to scan the ground for a stick long enough to be used as a sword. You want a rematch of the last time you played Seamen vs Pirates. She used to win, always, but then you started taking it a bit more seriously. Now you’re about even, but she’s been on a streak this week. Time to change that, you think to yourself as you dash over to her.

‘Have at ye, ya scurvy seadog!’ You leap into the air, “sword” raised vertically above your head as you attempt to bring it down with a nice slash.

‘I be seein’ no scurvy dog here. I’m a lady of the King’s Navy. Yer the dog if I’ve ever seen one!’ She blocks your attack easily, the two of you in a bit of a struggle until she shoves you back using her sword to add to her momentum. ‘Come on then, pirate! Show me what a “Free Man of the sea” be really about then!’

You smirk, as does she. The ends of her blonde hair are matted with sweat and a little dirt. She’s been out here for hours by your guess. Looks like you’re the pirate this time. You gently remove a strand of raven hair from your eyes.

Fine. She can have it her way.

You resume after your breather--you make wide, horizontal swings that she easily dodges by leaping just out of your reach. Her answer is a swift series of thrusts that you deflect, a satisfying sound each time you do so. You’re careful to mind her reach, as she has slightly longer arms than you, though your weapon is longer (but awkward to hold). You dodge three more thrusts as you counter with a thrust of your own, turning your arm at the last moment to curve your stick and tap her in her sword arm.

‘AHA!’ you exclaim. ‘Got you this time, Renne!’ The blonde teen pouts playfully at this loss. ‘I let you win and you know it. I seen that curved thrust comin’ I did! I let you have it on account of our friendship!’ You roll your eyes and begin to start with your news, but she cuts you off.

>>3257159
‘Come ‘ave a look at this!’ She pulls you back towards the tree, and reaches under one of its roots to reveal a golden coin in her palm. It doesn’t look like a common Dubloon, or any other currency you’ve seen from the seamen who enter port. It’s symmetrical, perfectly crafted, with a round bevel on the outer edges and a design in the center. It looks like . . .

‘Some kind o’ monster er somethin? What do you reckon this is?’ You have no answer for her; it’s as alien to you as it is her. You lift your shoulders and shake your head. ‘No idea. Maybe it’s from another country ‘er somethin’.

‘A country o’ monsters?’

‘It’s possible’, you retort, a little too sharply. You take the coin and pocket it, opting to return to discerning its origins later. You have some news to share!

‘Renne. You won’t believe this, but...I got a mission. From a seaman!’

‘Great! Say no more! When do we start?’ You’re glad she’s so keen to offer her services, but you’re concerned that the sailor who gave you the job might fnd Renne’s presence a little suspect. You’re sure nothing would happen, but it’s still a security job with some important cargo comin’ ashore! If any of the King’s coin is lost, you’re sure a Buster Call will follow. You’ve heard stories of those; none of them entice you.

>’Uh...w-well, he might not take kindly to you showing up, as much as I want yer company.’
>’I’m a bit concerned he might get suspicious of you on account of the nature o’ this mission. Don’t want yer hindquarters gettin’ into any hairy situations, follow?’
>’It be of no concern. We report to the town tavern by nightfall.’

>>3257162
>’It be of no concern. We report to the town tavern by nightfall.’

Make sure she knows the plan and let's it get it straight though, the moment that dude sees her and raises a fuss, we'll lay it on him, she stays for the mission or we both leave, savvy?

>>3257162
>>’It be of no concern. We report to the town tavern by nightfall.’

>>3257159
>It be of no concern. We report to the town tavern by nightfall.’

>>3257162
>’It be of no concern. We report to the town tavern by nightfall.’

>>3257199
>>3257210
>>3257211
>>3257214
Gonna call it here. Been up for 12 hours. Thanks for tuning in. If you wanna catch this tomorrow, come 'round 1-3pm EST for another run! And bring your cutlasses and flint. You're gonna need 'em!

>>3257224
Thanks again QuestPhreak! Can't wait. Have a good night.

>>3257245
Thank you anon. You too.

Not late. Just in the bathroom. Will be fine shortly!

In all honesty, I'm not in much mood to update today thanks to the university/library staff today. They're usually a pain in the ass anyway but they cost me a job lead so...not in the best of moods. STEM is already taxing as it is. Sorry about that. But to make up for it, I'll start an earlier run tomorrow. I'll start no latter than 1:30pm EST. Sorry again, but I didn't just wanna disappear without a word (bad thing to do here).

>>3259596
O.K

>>3259596
Just read this and liked it, we'll be here tomorrow.

>>3259596
Don't worry about it man. Life comes first.

I'm here and I'm on time! Sorry about yesterday, gents. If anyone cares to know what happened (since I figured you guys kinda deserve to know since you care about the quest and all): It's the library security messing with me about using the second basement floor bathroom. Been coming here for half a year; never an issue with anyone. All of a sudden, I get accused of "being in there too long" and "washing up in the sink" (in reality I was taking a shit and making sure I cleaned up properly). Went there again yesterday, walked right past her, she said nothing. Waited until I left the bathroom (15 minutes TOPS), to say "Sir, didn't I tell you about being down there too long?" When I let her know I walked right past her stupid ass no later than 15 minutes ago, I was told I was "there all day". All this when I'm on the phone with a potential employer. I had to hang up on them to deal with this mess. This library gets a lot of homeless, so I get it a bit, but it still doesn't warrant that kind of behaviour--homeless or not. I've loss interest in coming here like I used to because of that. It seems they give any thug a uniform and a gun these days.

Rant over. Let's get to writing!

>>3261876
Wow that's some bullshit. Fucking homeless and minority hires who can't be assed to do their jobs properly ruin everything. I hope you get the job at least for your troubles.

>>3257162
>>3257199
>>3257210
>>3257211
>>3257214
‘I was gonna say somethin’ but it be of no concern. We report to the town tavern by nightfall.’ You and Renne’s horseplay killed a few hours. You reckon the time to be gettin’ to the tavern is nigh. You maybe have an hour left before it’s time. Getting there early is wise. Just in case.

‘Let’s go’, you say, turning towards town. Renne grabs your wrist before you step too far away. ‘Hold on there. What if he’s not takin’ to me kindly bein’ there n’ all?’

‘Well, two’s better than one I’d say. I was thinkin’ the plan is this: We show up to do this job. If he raises a fuss, I put my foot down. Tell ‘im he’s not gettin’ me solo n’ all. Yer stayin’ around or we’re both gettin’ scarce.’

She smiles and punctuates her satisfaction with a crisp nod.

By the time you get back to town, it’s only half an hour away from nightfall. The half hour passes quickly, and soon, the night sky emerges with its telltale stars and full moon. Odd. The moon’s never THAT big, even when it’s full. You shrug at nothing, and in a few more minutes, the seaman exits the tavern, bottle in hand, but seemingly not drunk. Perhaps a little tipsy.

‘Ahoy’, he grumbles. He bounds over to you both in a few long strides that look out of place for him. Upon seeing your plus-one he double-takes before frowning. ‘Oi! Who be this then?’

You follow his pointing finger naively and glance at Renne. ‘Oh, this? This be Renne. Me best friend growin’ up. She’ll be adding to our little guard tonight.’

‘. . . Yer serious? I ain’t runnin’ no camp for kids, little lass. One brat’s ‘ard enough to place me confidence in. Two’s askin’ fer this thing to go belly up!’

‘Well’, you retort, crossing your arms. ‘I’m layin’ an amendment to our little arrangement. Not that I much remember agreein’ to showin’ up solo. Me mate stays, she joins the mission. If’n yer plannin’ t’ raise a fuss, we both leave. Savvy?’

‘Savvy’, he mumbles. ‘Here are your flintshots, brats.’ He pulls two pistols from his inside his faded green coat and practically shoves them into your hands. Possibly a bit miffed that Renne is tagging along. No, definitely a bit miffed. You expected him to tell you to pound sand, or at the very least dock whatever pay you were bound to get when the job was done. ‘Now what?’, you ask rather obviously.

He takes a swig of the rest of his drink before responding. ‘Now...we make our way to the port. Ship should be docked already. She was a little early oddly enough.’

(1/2)

>>3261894
One of my jobs was social work (well, kind of like social work) and I was homeless too. Believe me when I say that the whole homeless scene is filled with dysfunction. Those trying to recover and do the right thing are overshadowed by the criminals and thuggish types. The blacks are the worst, as much as it hurts me to say. It's too bad I have a future, or I'd likely pistol whip them with their own guns for what they did. Thanks for the love anon. < 3

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>>3261963
It's not worth.
Anytime QuestPhreak.

>>3261955
My trip needs to be on! There it is!

---

The three of you make your way east of town towards the port, the buildings and crowds getting smaller and smaller as you get closer to it. You soon see many green and gold patterned coats belonging to men who have muskeets and sabres attached to their person. It would make sense that the port would have naught but military presence, given that only military officials are allowed to be here. This is when you notice that your escort, while definitely a seaman of the same navy as the others, seems to be a bit sloppily dressed--some would even say underdressed. And not wearing the neat, white pants they do but some rather dirty, loose-fitting ones. Despite him wearing the coat of the Castilian Navy, his accent is a bit foreign. Then again, you being essentially a country street rat, everyone who isn’t you sounds foreign.

‘Say matey, where you from?’ He doesn't answer for a few moments, before giving a gravely ‘From a royal colony far from here, lass.’ You notice him suppress a grin and increase his walking pace. That’s when Renne slows her own and pulls you into rhythm with her. ‘Hey. What d’you reckon of this seaman? He’s in the dress of the navy, but doesn’t seem to be the type o’ seaman the king’d want on his ships. Especially bein’ that Castile’s still at war with Albion. Figurin’ it’s not a good investment if’n the king is interested in winnin’ his wars.’

‘Not to worry’ you say gently, patting her shoulder. ‘He could be a privateer. Former sailor for the king who got one o’ them licenses to sail the seven seas and raid vessels n’ whatnot.’ You shrug. ‘Wouldn’t be t’ first nor last.’

She accepts this as she gives a sage nod and continues walking normally.

Eventually, the three of you reach the docks, the ship’s profile looking rather intimidating in the moon’s soft light. It’s your first time being at the docks, and your first time seeing a ship this close. You can’t take your eyes off it the entire remainder of the walk. The seaman stops at the ramp and you almost bump into both him and Renne thanks to your ship-induced trance. He only chuckles and takes a quick glance at it.

‘Yes, I know. She’s quite the beaut’. The Del Mar, lasses. The ship you’ll be watchin’ o’er for the night. I know you brats’er landsmen an’ ya got questions. Make ‘em known now ‘fore I go. I ain’t gonna babysit you on account a’ I be havin’ engagements of me own to get to.’

>Ask what the rules are. What can you do and not do?
>Ask how long you’ll be guarding this ship for exactly.
>Ask what you’re specifically supposed to be doing.
>Write in (ask what?).

>>3262041
>Ask what the rules are. What can you do and not do?

>>3262041

>Ask how long you’ll be guarding this ship for exactly.

>>3262041
>Write in
>Have you told the other King's Navymen we're here guarding the ship? It's a mite bit strange seeing two youngins hanging around a ship after dark.

>>3262094
>Have you told the other King's Navymen we're here guarding the ship? We don't want to cause trouble for 'em.

>>3262070
>>3262074
>>3262094
>>3262099
Fuck it, I'll do 'em all! Writing.

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>>3262122
YEAH! That's what I'm talking about!

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>>3262041
‘Yes. Several.’ The seaman rolls his eyes and shakes his head, muttering something about “bloody street brats” under his breath as if he expected yet didn’t want questions. ‘Out with ‘em, lass.’

‘First, what be the rules us two lasses have to follow? What we be allowed n’ unallowed t’do?’

‘Simple. 1) Stay here until the job’s done or one of us says you can leave.’ He gestures to a few green-coated men doing various things around the docks. ‘2) We give an order, fill said order. 3) And this one’s real important--shoot whoever we be tellin’ you to shoot.’

‘And how long do we be guardin’ this ship?’

‘Till we tell ya to get lost.’

Renne chips in for this one before you can. Not that you were going to ask this anyway--bad move on your part not thinking this through. Then again, you always were the risky one. Renne’s just-as-motivated-yet-calmer approach balanced you out. ‘Have ye told the King’s Sailors that you’ve hired some lasses of civilian stock t’ help guard your post? I figure it’s a mite bit queer to have two youngins hangin’ ‘round the docks, ‘specially after dark.’

‘Yes’, you nod sagely in an attempt to appear as though you thought of this too. ‘We wouldn’t want any trouble to be brewin’ fer ‘em ‘cause of us.’

‘Lots o’ questions, lot’s o’ questions’, he starts, scratching his head. ‘Yes, my guys know and no one else. On account o’ this bein’ a rather...sensitive operation. All that royal gold need be kept safe, and we were needin’ to be sure nary a mole would be able to get wise to the Del Mar’s cargo. Follow?’

You both nod. ‘Follow’.

‘Then with that, I’m off fer my business. I’ll be seein’ ya brats in a while. Don’t make me regret hirin’ ye.’

‘Wait’, you call when the seaman is a few fet away from you. ‘You told us to shoot whoever you told us to earlier.’ He nods. ‘Well, we’re not really to be shootin’ anyone, right? In this part of the blue world nothin’ happens.’

He chuckles and shakes his head before continuing on, leaving you both on the walkway with your flintshots and an uncertain amount of time on your hands. How do you spend it?

>Go talk to one of the seamen. Ask them some questions. (like what?)
>Go aboard the Del Mar and see what it’s like to be on her deck.
>Write-in.

>>3262165
>Go aboard the Del Mar and see what it’s like to be on her deck.

An actual ship

>>3262165
>Ask Renne how to shoot the flintlock. We've been more of a hand-to-hand man, even if we lose to Renne on occasion. On occasion.

Alright. Writing.

>>3262175
agreed

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>>3262174
>>3262175
‘Hey. You wanna go deckside?’ Renne’s signature grin returns, along with her confident tone. ‘Come on!’ Before you can answer she yanks your arm and you both dash towards the ship. Some of the men have lit torches, giving the Del Mar an almost otherworldly feel, though that’s likely your imagination and excitement running wild. It’s your first time on a SHIP, a real ship! What’s the first thing you do now that you’re as close to becoming a seaman as you’ll ever be?

‘Renne. I don’t reckon you be knowin’ how to fire one of these things?’ You reach for the flintshot you stored in the rear of your trousers. Usually, you’d be more careful, but the delirium of being on a ship is making you a bit shifty. She reveals her own and eyes it carefully. ‘I dunno. I think it’s as simple as pointin’ n’ shootin’, she offers. ‘Least the way I’ve seen it done anyway.’

‘Where’d you see a gunfight?’ She’s grown up on the same island as you, meaning she knows it’s just as sleepy and boring. Fist fights aren’t even that common, so a gunfight would be an almost historical event. ‘The only gunfight that been had on Panoke is during the Great Revolution. You an’ I were mere tots during those days.’ She only shrugs and says nonchalantly that she’s asked a sailor or two how. You’re pretty surprised at this, but in response to your incredulous expression she shrugs a second time.

‘Point n’ shoot, huh?’ You turn towards the sea and extend the flintshot towards it--that way you won’t hit anything on the ship and damage her.

‘Are you out of your wits?!’ Renne shoves your hand down before you can pull the trigger. ‘We’re supposed to be still and silent. What’re ye doin’ ‘bout t’ shoot that there flintshot?! You offer a half-assed apology and she sighs. ‘Sometimes, lass...sometimes.’

‘Sometimes what’, you press, but the girl just sighs and heads to the ship’s wheel. ‘Can’t believe ye. This is the closest we been to bein’ seamen. We’re on a ship--a galleon at that! Right on her deck at the wheel an’ everythin! Yer magic, lass!’

You can’t help but blush lightly at that, but try to sound as modest as possible. ‘No. Just a lass of the sea is all. Seen an opportunity an’ took it.’

‘Glad all the same.’ She begins to play with the wheel a bit and before long, one of the men, rolling a barrel, spots you and tells you to “get your bloody asses away from the wheel and off the deck”. You both comply, of course. But wow, was that an experience! You got to go aboard a real ship, and one of you got to touch its wheel! Can this day get any better? If it does, your little heart might not last much longer!

Now that you’ve been shooed off the ship, you’ll have to do something else.

>Go talk to a seaman. Ask them questions. (choose 2)
>Take that weird coin out of your pocket and go back to brainstorming its origins.
>Write in.

>>3262269
>>Go talk to a seaman. Ask them questions. (choose 2)

Bug them about where are they going next

ask them if they ever fought pirates!

>>3262269
>Go talk to a seaman. Ask them questions. (choose 2)
ask them if they ever fought pirates!
Oy mate! You ever seent a coin like this 'fore?

>>3262310
+1

But make sure to keep the coin away from his hands, no chance to lose it.

>>3262294
>>3262310
>>3262318
Few enough votes to do 'em all. Writing!

>>3262269
‘That was fun. Why don’t we go share words with those seamen? Doubtless they got stories to share, or at the very least a few sea shanties they can make us privy to.’

‘Sounds like a fine idea!’ And with that, you both stride over to a seaman rolling barrels to the ship--likely of rum, if the pungent smell is any clue. He sighs when he sees you both coming, before you even get to him.

‘I ‘ave no candy nor trinkets for you brats. Go back to yer post like yer s’posed to!’

‘We will. Don’t go losin’ yer head jus’ yet mate. We were wonderin’ where yer goin’ to next.’

‘And if you ever fought pirates!’ Renne chimes in.

‘Er, I s’pose we’re goin’ to Green Turtle Key to sell this here rum. An’ on the account o’ pirates, yes. Who ‘asn’t? Oh--forgot yer landsmen. Yes, indeed we done engaged quite a few pirate crew with cannon n’ blade.’

The word “landsmen” stings a bit, even if it is true. It being basically an insult to those who either don’t sail, don’t sail but want to, or sail but are piss poor at it. You shake it off and continue; Renne on the other hand seems oblivious to it. ‘Oi mate! You ever seen a coin like this ‘fore?’ You pinch the coin between two fingers and keep it just out of his reach--don’t want to be losin’ anything gold and shiny now. He peers at the coin in the moonlight before snatching a torch from nearby and leaning closer to it. Upon a scratch of his head, he shakes it. ‘Hmm. On second thought...looks like the cursed coin o’ Aquitaar.’

‘Aquitaar?’, you both ask in unison, to which he nods and continues. ‘Yes brats. Aquitaar. Heard many tales of many places in my early days as a sailor.’ He inclines his head towards the coin before continuing. ‘That there coin is said to be part o’ their cursed treasure. Some kind of country o’ mermen n’ fishfolk.’ He shrugs. ‘I don’t give much way to curses n’ all. Never seen anything out of place other n’ the occasional crazy invention.’
While you’d rather not be cursed, it’s a bit disappointing to know that, according to him, the sea might not be as mystical as you thought, or as you read in books growing up. Though you maintain your belief in those tales, that the sea is actually a mystical place--that you only need to sail it to confirm that belief.

‘Anyway, I’ll be gettin’ this here rum to its proper place. Yer goin’ back to your post I assume? If’n yer wantin’ pay that is.’ He continues his work, leaving you both where you are as he disappears up the walkway. You pocket the coin and sigh. It’s been about 2 hours since the fellow who gave you the job vanished to do his “business”. ‘Renne, let’s go and--’

(1/2)

>>3262465
That’s when you hear a flintshot fire somewhere nearby. Sounds like it came from the woods near the docks. A cacophony of voices can be heard, then an even louder explosion. Maybe a handbomb? The other men at the dock reveal their flintshots and muskets, scanning the woodline for any discernible target.

‘Oi you brats! To arms! What’re ya standin’ ‘round lookin’ lame fer?!’ You both exchange worried glances as you fidget for your weapons, your nerves beginning to act up as you struggle to hold them confidently.

‘You dogs! Look alive! We ‘ave comp’ny!’ It’s the man who hired you, running full sail towards the ship, with naught anything new but an oddly large key strung round his neck. ‘Make ready to sail! I got the bloody key! Didn’t I say to leave the sails unfurled?! Blast it!’ More shots ring from the woodline, some narrowly missing you both, most making their new homes in the various wooden bits of the dock or ship. ‘Brats! Return fire! This is what I hired ya to do!’

>Fire at the woodline! They must be badguys!
>Ask what’s going on. Nothing was supposed to happen during this operation. Nothing EVER happens on Panoke!
>Write in.

(2/2)

>>3262468
>>Fire at the woodline! They must be badguys!

well, they are firing at us

>>3262468
>Fire at the woodline! They must be badguys!

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>>3262468
>Fire at the woodline! They must be badguys!

>>3262468

>Fire at the woodline! They must be badguys!

>>3262475
>>3262476
>>3262479
>>3262481
Last update of the day. Writing!

>>3262468
Renne is the first to fire into the woodline. Her shot rings true, as a figure stumbles out of the wood’s edge before falling to the ground. You follow, and seemingly hit nothing, but that isn’t what surprises you. What surprises you is the fact that the man Renne shot is wearing a green and gold coat, like the men you’re working with. So...what exactly is going on? You see the look on her face and it asks the same question without needing a verbal component.

‘...I don’t understand’, you say shaking your head. ‘What’s going on?’

‘We’ve been had is what!’ The man who hired you says. ‘I said to make ready the damn sails!’ The men over his shoulder frantically begin the process of making the Del Mar sailworthy. More greencoats emerge from the woodline, this time with muskets, as they kneel and stand to shoot.

‘Fire!’, they exclaim. ‘They’ve made off with the key, and they’ll make off with the king’s ship! Prevent the Del Mar from leaving port!’

‘Stolen ship? But…’ A musket ball misses you by inches, which is your cue to drag Renne and yourself behind some barrels for cover. ‘What’s going on? You said we were hired fer security!’

“I-I don’t know! That’s what I been told! How’m I s’posed to know the intrigue that goes on with the navy? You s’pose the ship is really stolen?’

‘Well, how in the name of the big blue did they make port with her?! And who did I just kill? A bad guy...or a good guy?’

You shrug, and you can see the disappointment and confusion on your best friend’s face and she looks at her pistol. Neither of you had ever meant to kill anyone, should you become seamen--not that you are now. ‘Renne, later. We best be gettin’ our bearings about us!’ Your tone is both urgent and sympathetic. You WILL attend to her, but later. Now, you’d best be savin’ your hindquarters!

More musket balls whiz past you and into barrels, columns and the ship. More of the greencoats from the woodline go down, and one or two of the other guys do as well. One is shot in the chest and falls overboard.

(1/2)

>>3262561
‘Cease, you dogs! Cease fire!’ An impressively regal voice booms from the woodline. Its owner soon makes themselves known atop a white steed, wearing a Castile-pattern tricorne hat. His long white hair is tied into a neat ponytail that hangs elegantly over his shoulder. He wears a greencoat, but his is weighty and more impressive, with medals adorning its breastpocket. The corners of his mouth slowly curve into a smug grin as he begins to speak.

‘Well. It would seem treason runs deep within the ranks of the King’s Seamen! I told my men to stop firing because I wanted to look upon the men who would spit on the crown. In doing so I realise two things: 1) the King lets anyone join his forces these days thanks to his affinity for war and 2) you’re even less intelligent than you look if you think you can even handle the Del Mar, let alone safely make away with her. The King’s flagship? Are you quite serious?’ He gestures and two pieces of cannon on wheels appear from the wood’s dark veil. ‘Then again, I suppose I’ll be damaging her, but at least I’ll be rid of you pirates.’ He spat the word “pirates” before signalling them to fire. ‘One chance: Surrender to the crown or...face extermination!’

>Okay. What’s REALLY going on?
>Holy shit? This guy looks legit! So...are the men who you were working with the bad guys after all?!
>Uh, we’re innocent. Can we just go home?
>Write in.

- - -

Thanks for showing up again, you scurvy sea dogs! Show up tomorrow at 1-2pm for some more swashbuckling action! I promise things'll really take off during tomorrow's session! Good night!

>>3262563
Good night and thanks again QuestPhreak! I can't wait for tomorrow's intrigue!

>>3262563
>Uh, we’re innocent. Can we just go home?

Shiiiiiit lol

>>3262563
>Uh, we’re innocent. Can we just go home?

>>3262563
>>Okay. What’s REALLY going on?

I'm here. Just getting situated. Here way before 2 this time. I think I'm gonna start at 2 CST to give myself enough time. Been digging up some of my old worldbuilding files in the background and rereading them.

>>3262584
>>3262942
>>3262944
Okay. Looks like we're doing it all again! Writing.

>>3262563
>Uh, we’re innocent. Can we just go home? We surrender!

>>3262563
‘Ok, ok! Wait Us two’re innocent!’ You and Renne step from behind the barrels, hands raised placatingly, but the man points a flintshot at you anyway while his subordinates aim their muskets at you, following his lead.

‘What’s this now? Some lost and confused young ladies in over their heads, dealing with the likes of pirates. Look here, pirates even target our future generations! Why the King grants these vermin licenses is beyond me. You will go nowhere, missies. Not until I’ve sorted this out, and decided on whom to hang.’

‘Hey! Do something!’ Renne hisses. You give her a quick glare before coming up with an idea that’ll buy you some time.

‘Uh...parley! Um...sir?’

The man atop the horse sighs. ‘Mm, dear, that is for pirates. And this is not their domain, but one of humans.’

The man who hired you -- grin gone, replaced by a tight expression -- begins to step forward. ‘Keep insultin’ us Free Men and yer gonna be leavin’ th domain of the livin’!’ It seems the greencoat recognizes him, because his eyes light up for a minute before returning to their regally narrowed state.

‘As I live and breathe! Salty Sam of the Main Blue! I thought Captain Gomez had done away with you at sea when he found your vessel in our waters. I suppose it’s true; a cockroach truly is hard to kill.’ The greencoats chuckle at that, but never lower their muskets on the lot of you. ‘I suppose the King will reward me handsomely should I return to Castile with you head--with it attached to you body preferably. And I suppose a promotion will be due as well. Indeed, “Lieutenant Cortez de Haraldo Delahunt”. What a lovely sound--don’t you think?’

Man, this guy must love hearing himself talk.

(1/2)

>>3264557
‘Uh, excuse me. Sir? What exactly in the name of the Great Blue is goin’ on?’

Cortez turns to you with an arched eyebrow, as if remembering that you were here. ‘Mm. This creature is a pirate--a quite infamous one I might add. His crimes include: fraud, extortion, piracy, conspiracy to commit piracy, and worst of all, treason. You were hired to assist in his effort to steal 12 thousands dubloon worth of money from the king under which you are a subject. Treason by proxy, as it were. His bounty currently stands at 10,000 dubloons, with military accolades for-’

‘Blue almighty! Quit runnin’ yer gab! I thought us Albians knew how to gum!’ Salty Sam adjusts his belt a bit, while Cortez shifts his collar and clears his throat. ‘Mm. Indeed. With exposition out of the way, you and your men will be coming with me--as will the ladies there. Come now! I have other engagements. I am to attend a royal ball within the hour!’

‘Not goin’ anywhere, Cortez. Yer gonna have to drag me dead body ‘round to court if’n yer thinkin’ I take to the idea of bein’ yer pris’ner.’

‘Oh? Is that so? Oh well. I suppose I’ll play this like a pirate. You foul beasts only understand violence right?’ He pauses to signal his muskets. ‘Make ready your aim! Fire on my mark at Salty Sam and his men! Do try to avoid the girls--but I shall not fault you for any collateral damage.’

You and Renne say nothing as you dive behind some barrels. The hammers pull back. You hear their sure “CLICK!”ing sound.

‘FIIIIRE!’

>Shit! We gotta get outta here! Wait for them to reload (if they aren't using repeaters) and high-tail it! Where to? (pick a place on the island)

>Get back to the Del Mar and try to hide somewhere on it!

>Write in.

(2/2)

Gonna be in the bathroom for a bit. Vote as you would--I'll be back to update soon.

>>3264566
>>Shit! We gotta get outta here! Wait for them to reload (if they aren't using repeaters) and high-tail it! Where to? (pick a place on the island)

OUR SECRET PLACE

>>3264566

>Get back to the Del Mar and try to hide somewhere on it!

>>3264566
>Get back to the Del Mar and try to hide somewhere on it!

>>3264659
>>3264686
Writing.

>>3264566
‘Let’s get back on the ship’, you say over the sound of exploding powder. ‘We can hide there until this whole thing blows over!’ Renne nods and you two bolt toward the Del Mar. You go below decks where the cargo is stored. You can still hear the din of combat outside, but it’s faint. You two are both uncertain of what comes next, but you are sure that you can’t go out there again. No telling what that horse-riding guy would do!

‘Okay. What was that? You got us caught up with pirate did ye?’

‘Don’t pin this on me! You’re usually the voice of reason in this here duo! Why didn’ye say somethin’ if’n ye had doubts?’

‘I did’, Renne retorts with a hand on her hip. ‘I asked if you were sure Sam or whatever was the genuine product. He was too shifty--even by pirate standards.’ She had a point. What kind of seaman worth his salt asks a strange--and a youth at that--to do a job anyway. Surely pickings on Panoke weren’t that critical, were they?

‘Well, we’re aboard the ship, the boys’re still fightin’ outside. We have a few moments to plan our way out of this. D’you reckon--Renne?’ You turn around, and see your best friend standing in the far corner of the hold. When you make your way to her, you see what she’s looking at: it’s a dead body from the pirate group being dealt with upstairs. Nothing special about the body itself--poor sod died from a shot to the stomach and chest. It’s what’s near him that matters. A black sack, dropped post-mortem, with coins spilling out . . .

Coins that resemble the one Renne found in Turtle Place. The one you have in your pocket right now!

>’Renne...what’s--I don’t understand. How’s all these coins here? Didn’t we have the only one?’
>’So...is there a curse after all?’
>’The King is hauling cursed gold? Knowingly? For what purpose?’
>Write in.

Trip on. Sorry.

>>3264743
>’So...is there a curse after all?’

>>3264743
>>’The King is hauling cursed gold? Knowingly? For what purpose?’

>>3264743
>’The King is hauling cursed gold? Knowingly? For what purpose?’

We must not let that Cortez get us, he'll have us hanged.

>>3264755
>>3264756
Why not both

Writing both.

>>3264755
>>3264756
>>3264765
>>3264770
‘So...there’s a curse after all?’

‘Just cos we found similar coins doesn’t mean there be a curse.’ She has a point. But still, you can’t help but have more questions the more you think about this situation. ‘Still, mite strange we found the same coin at our special place. No one knows of it. That’s our little pocket domain.’ She seems to run right off with what you were thinking. ‘So…’

‘That means there be more to the story after all. The King is hauling cursed gold? Knowingly?’ Renne shrugs at your question. ‘For what purpose?’ She shrugs again. ‘This means that someone with this coin was at our spot. What was they doin’ way out there in Panoke’s nowhere?’

‘We don’t have much time to play figurin’, lass! We-’ She’s yanked behind a barrel as you hear footsteps. One greencoat has, somehow, made his way past the pirates and on the Del Mar. You can still here fighting outside so you figure he was sent by Cortez to find you. Not good. He’ll have you hanged along with ‘em!

His boots thump-thump-thump at a slow place as he scans the hold carefully. ‘You’d best surrender and show yourselves, lest you relenquish your one and only offer of clemency!’ He kicks a barrel over and fires his flintshot at it...only to see clear liquid pouring from it and nothing else. Then, the thump-thump-thump continues as he resumes his search.

>Try to sneak past him upstairs/to another part of the ship. (Roll 1d7)
>Try to knock him out using a team sneak attack. (roll 1d10)
>Write in. (roll 1d7)

>>3264831
>>Try to sneak past him upstairs/to another part of the ship. (Roll 1d7)

>>3264842
YOU gots to roll, dear reader.

Rolled 9 (1d10)

>>3264831
grab'im

>>3264852
We don't wait for majority before rolls?

>Try to sneak past him upstairs/to another part of the ship. (Roll 1d7)

Rolled 7 (1d7)

>>3264852
What guy above said.

>>3264867
No. If that's how it's done here then I'll just wait for a majority then call for a roll. All my mistake on that one.

>>3264831

>Try to sneak past him upstairs/to another part of the ship. (Roll 1d7)

>>3264874
>>3264867
Sneaking past 'em. Someone roll a 1d7 please.

Rolled 3 (1d7)

>>3264891

Looks like it's slowing down. I'll take this time to grab some grub. Back before it gets too long.

Rolled 1 (1d7)

>>3264891

Yeesh. Just that one, huh? Tell you what? I'll call it a night here. I'll be around same time tomorrow, between 1-2pm CST. Tomorrow's update will move things along. Try not to get burned out just yet.

>>3265103
hey
we got 3 rolls, is it best of three or do you need more?

>>3264869
>>3264907
>>3264922
here they are

I know I'll get btfo'd for this but due to my depression flaring up there won't be a session today. I won't give a life story. Don't worry. I'll try to be back Monday and churn out more updates t make up for this. Thank you to tjose who care and put their time and votes in thus far. I hope you return next week to finish it with me.

>>3267850
No probs dude, have a nice weekend.

As you all know, yesterday was President's Day. I didn't foresee this due to generally not giving a fuck what day it is, and so I failed to inform you. I'll do a better job as a QM in the future.

That aside, this will be going live in 30 minutes! Thanks again for playing!

>>3264869
>>3264907
>>3264922
>>3265129
Almost instinctively, you both tip-toe around your row of barrels and sneak past him. He's not going to be there long, obviously, but that buys you time. Time, which, you may not have in excess. You both move to the captain's quarters, which has a similar chest seated neatly on a desk, earning you a stern "don't start" look from Renne.

'That was close.'

'But we don't have much time. He'll be comin' 'round to this chamber any minute. 'A place to hide . . . hmm.'

'Not so fast, girlies!' The greencoat you snuck past appears in the doorway. He's grinning as he makes his way over to you, taking care not to let you slip past him. He easily picks you both up by your collars and drags you back upstairs, where the deck is now silent, only a few men left standing for both sides.

You're both thrown down roughly some feet away from the dog who'd hired you. Cortez now stands deckside as well, having abandoned his horse and tied it to a post.

'Now then...about the matter of the King's gold. Beware how thin my patience runs.'

>Maintain innocence. 'We didn't know what was goin' on! We were hired to help them!'
>Try to weave your way out of this. 'We're just too young lasses in over our heads. Take a pity on us, yeah?'
>Try to, in hushed tones, devise an escape plan.
>Write in.

>>3277223
>>Try to weave your way out of this. 'We're just too young lasses in over our heads. Take a pity on us, yeah?'

>>3277267
Writing.

>>3277223

>>Try to weave your way out of this. 'We're just too young lasses in over our heads. Take a pity on us, yeah?'

>>3277267
>>3277340
>>3277223
'Look captain. Us two're just wee lasses. How was we s'posed to know we'd be gettin' in over our heads? Just let us go. We didn't know nothin' about stolen gold and ships. Why, we can't even sail a ship!'

'So you claim. And yet here you are. How quaint.'

'Tis true!'

'Enough! You two lasses were found with a notorious pirate -- Salty Sam -- the likes of which has a dignified sum of bounty on his head. I will not tolerate being finessed, ladies. Unless...'

'Go', you press him. 'Continue!'

'You find it a sharp idea to serve on my vessel. You will work off the gold you attempted to steal. Since you so badly want to be seamen, you should jump at this chance. Consider yourselves to be apprentices in that you will not be paid. No rapscallions shall make profit aboard my vessel. So ladies, what say you?'

>Agree. It's a way out of this and you can plan an escape later.
>Disagree. You're not going out like slaves!
>Other.

>>3277366
For how long? We want to be paid afterall

But accept either way, the see calls

>>3277366
>Agree. It's a way out of this and you can plan an escape later

>>3277390
>>3277391
agreed

>>3277390
>>3277391
>>3277400
'We agree. We'll serve. But for how long?'

He rubs his chin. 'Until the value of the gold is worked off. I'd say that's a fair trade, would you disagree?'

'Hey', Renne says with a sharp jostle to your shoulder. 'What are ya doin? Puttin' us in service to this greencoat is only a mite better'n these lads!' You placate her with a gesture and assure her that this arrangement is temporary until you can figure out how to escape captivity. She relents and leans away from your ear.

'So, I take it you're both on board? Splendid! Now, there is the matter of what to do with these animals. I suppose a cage--I mean prison cell should do the trick, but I fear that to be an insult to the human prisoners in our charge!' The remaining greencoats all erupt in laughter at this not-very-brilliant joke, as does Cortez, who you can confirm does in fact like to hear himself talk.

'Very well, now we--OOF!' You look around for the source of the gunshot and find that Salty Sam had a flintshot hidden somewhere on his person. His aim was true, as the led ball found a home in the throat of the Castilian captain. He immediately slump to the floor, holding his throat which poured liberally from the wound. There was no way about it; he was surely to meet his maker. A few more shots find their way to the remaining greencoats, leaving Salty Sam and a handful of men remaining. With no hesitation at all in his voice he demands you both to stand with a sharp 'UP!'

'Makin' a deal with an official right in front of me face? Turnin' coat? They say a pirate is as good as his crew. Good ta know I can't trust ye. But ye know too much fer me to let live. Sorry, lassies.' He points his gun at you both now. 'No hard feelings?'

BANG!
BANG!

>The end? Now? I suppose it's a good a time as any to die. (roll 1d7)
>The end? Already? No! You still have a life to live! (roll 1d7)

Rolled 3 (1d7)

>>3277507
>>The end? Already? No! You still have a life to live! (roll 1d7)

Save Renne! with our own life if necessary


shit, what were we supposed to do, be hanged?

Rolled 3 (1d7)

>>3277551
This, save her!

Rolled 7 (1d7)

>>3277507
Throw ourselves in front of our childhood friend, this way we dodge our bullet and take the one meant for her

>>3277551
>>3277554
Tsk. Bad rolls. Writing.

No. You're not going out like this. You reject the light at the end of the tunnel, instead coming back to the land of the living. With a start your eyes burst open. Renne's eyes are open, but they dart this way and that. It looks like she's in shock, and you know just the person to help.

Salty Sam ditched your bodies a mile or so into the woods. You thank whatever deity is responsible for the moon as you use its light to guide you both to Old Man Juan's house. You try to stay somewhat in the woodline to avoid suspicion and being found by any greencoats or pirate stragglers. No doubt they would come looking for you. You weren't going to let that happen. Every step taken earns you a protest from your stomach. You can't stop it from bleeding effectively while moving. Luckily you're at the old man's house before you faint. Usually, he's one you avoid due to his rants about the past era of those who live on the seas, but he's always a charitable fellow who will help any Panoker in need.

His wrinkly old face greets you, pipe in mouth, wondering why you're there until he follows both the trail of blood and your best friend being carried in your arms. He ushers you both in immediately before the door is shut.

'So', he says, perfectly calm. His gravely voice makes him hard to understand, but you're strangely clear and attentive in this situation. 'Got yerselves into some fine trouble.' He begins to go to work on Renne, pouring some rum in her chest wound before patching her up. He continues without taking his eyes off the blonde teen. 'Was some men who looked unsavoury came round lookin' fer you. Figured they'd tear the town up, way they was breathin'. Heh. You wanna share then?'

>Tell Old Man Juan everything. The treason conspiracy, Salty Sam, gold, curse (maybe?), dead officer--everything.
>Tell the old man half of everything. Maybe the pirates and the treason, but leave out the job you tried to run for 'em.
>Lie.
>Write in.

>>3277652

>Tell Old Man Juan everything. The treason conspiracy, Salty Sam, gold, curse (maybe?), dead officer--everything.

>>3277652

>Tell Old Man Juan everything. The treason conspiracy, Salty Sam, gold, curse (maybe?), dead officer--everything.

Shame this >>327762. Roll was late

>>3277671
Also, hug the shit out of Renne when she wakes up, she's not allowed to die!

We're telling him everything then. Writing.

>>3277666
>>3277671
>>3277679
You tell him everything. From the strange coin you found, to the job you took, to the treason plot and intrigue. He silently and diligently continues working on Renne, who is now sleeping the rest of the night off in one of the old man's spare rooms.

Next, he begins working on you. Although your wound is slightly less complicated than hers, it is no less fatal. You wince through the poking and threading in between replies.

'Tsk. You both know better. Some unknown washes ashore and offers a job? Come now, girlie.' You hang your head in shame. You were so drunk off your dreams of being a seaman that you lost all common sense. In hindsight, Renne is right; you're far too risky. You admit that, but you just can't help it! Still, your ambition almost got you and your best friend killed!

'I know nothing of these coins, nor in my day have I sailed to a place known as "Aquitaar". Fishmen, you say?' He makes a clicking sound with his tongue. 'A seaman's tale, indeed. Far too many of those get the young and star-eyed--like you--drunk of delusions of adventure, and into situations like these. Let's hope you'll take a senile old man like me more seriously now, aye?'

'Aye'.

'Now then, you're all patched up. Take it you can wear my wife's old linens to bed if ya want. Should be enough room fer you an' your friend on that bed.'

>Ask him something before bed. (Choose.)
>Go to bed. It's been a wild day.
>Help him clean up, then go to bed.
>Write in.

>>3277814
>Help him clean up, then go to bed.

>>3277814
>Help him clean up, then go to bed

Help a little as thanks.

Then snuggle up with Renne, we almost lost her today.

>>3277814
>Go to bed. It's been a wild day.

Last update ladies and germs. Sorry about the wait. The library gave out some snacks, but the homeless beat me to the line. Writing for clean up then bed.

>>3277834
>>3277920
>>3277968
You help the old man clean up the mess. You sort of made it, after all. The bloody gauze and clothes are first. The old man says you can keep some of his wife's clothes, jesting at the fact that she was "about your size" with a smile that suggests he's a bit of a dirty old geezer, but you shrug it off. Next, you help him put up his medical tools. You learn he was a medic during his seafairing days--I guess that's one story he can prove. Once everything's done, you give him a hug and a silent thank you. He pats your back and shoos you off to bed, where you find a passed out Renne taken by slumber. She seems to be sleeping perfectly. Your small frame snuggles against hers, and you bury your face in her hair. She was almost lost today. You both were.

As your eyelids grow heavier, you reflect on the day. You'll be a seaman, but a better one. One that won't lose to dogs with surprise attacks. One that won't lose Renne. No matter what.

To be continued . . .

>Well, that's all folks! Thanks for playing (again)! I'm managing to be consistent. So far, I'm QMing at a not-totally-shit rate I'd say. I still need to do better, and I will. You guys know the drill. 1-2pm start time tomorrow. Same time, same place!

>>3278100
Thanks for running.

Man. I'm on time AGAIN folks. I'm just getting some documents typed up (other quests and whatnot for future running maybe) and we'll start. But I wanted to check in to let you all know I'm here and ready to start shortly.

>>3280321
right here dude

>>3280425
>>3278201
>>3277920

I'm hankering like a muh for some candy and drinks. Let's hope the GF can transfer money soon. Anyway, let's go!

- - - - - - -

In the morning, you're greeted by orange sunlight piercing through the cloth curtains. The smell of seawater and . . . cooked meat greets you? Someone's cooking? Wait.

Smells like bacon.

Bacon always got your attention. It seems it got Renne's attention to seeing as how a wrinkled mess of sheets is now where her body should be. You throw your covers off leaving behind a similar mess and rush to the kitchen. There, you see your best friend and the old man--the former, sat at the table eating; the latter cooking what she's eating.

'Mornin' to you, lass. Was just whipping up some crispy cheese bacon potatoes for you and the little blonde missy here. With the speed I just saw you employ, I take it you're to be joining us?'

You nod speedily and almost leap to a seat at the table, right next to Renne who smiles softly and returns to her meal. You don't wait long for a plate of your own and once you're digging in, Old Man Juan takes a seat himself opposite of you both. He lights his pipe full of...whatever before he opens to speak with a long drag and a sigh.

'Them greencoats came by sometime after you lasses was slumberin'. Same deal as with the sea dogs; I haven't seen you. If yer gonna be seamen ya have t'know when to press and when to hold. I don't have much a mind to lecture you as yer not my girls, but the youth need a bit of help every now n' then.'

You nod. Though you have already processed the previous night and have no reason to rehash it. Still, it's good to remember to learn from your mistakes.

>Ask the old man something. (Choose)
>Agree and finish eating quietly; help clean up.
>Write in.

>>3280463
>>Ask the old man something. (Choose)

first say that you are sorry to Renne

then ask the old men what can he teach us about being seamen, what tips can he give us so we can ride the waves

>>3280481
Writing.

>>3280481
This

>>3280481
>>3280481
'Renne. I put you in danger because I was so deep in my ambition I didn't think clearly. I almost...lost you last night. I'm sorry, Renne. I . . . the thought of losing you was...'

'Hey now. We're thick as thieves. I didn't exactly put up much resistance now did I? I'm still shaken up by the whole thing, and I don't think I can pull a hammer back anytime soon, but...I'm alright, and I forgive you.'

'Old man', you say, turning to Juan. 'I think it's evident to us both that we're in need of tips. We're still chasing our dream, just with a mind of caution now. You always share your stories of your sea days. Why not share some clues and tips on how to become great seamen?'

'As opposed to dead ones?' He chuckles. 'Aye. I'll do you one better: I'll give ya a boat. Does that sound quite like the clue yer seekin'?'

>You can't be serious! A boat? With sails and everything?!
>I--we can't accept that. We have to come upon a boat our way like proper seamen.
>Write in.

>>3280538
>You can't be serious! A boat? With sails and everything?!

>>3280538
>>You can't be serious! A boat? With sails and everything?!

>>3280538

>You can't be serious! A boat? With sails and everything?!

>>3280551
>>3280568
>>3280569
Writing.

>>3280551
>>3280568
>>3280569
'You can't be serious!' You almost choke on your breakfast. 'A real boat? With sails and everything? I-'

'Aye. Calm down lass. It's me old ship as a privateer. I took her all over the big blue. Weathered, but as sure and sturdy as the day I first put her to sea. I'm gettin' up there in age now, and I prefer me shack, rocking chair and pipe to a wheel, anchor and sails. Savvy?'

You and Renne, who is unusually calm upon hearing this, nod. She's likely taking it easy given the previous night and her wound. Wouldn't want to jostle it. Same goes for you.

>'A fine frigate she is. Built for speed and maneuverability, while being able to deliver a punch. Lightly armed. Perfect for a crew as small as yours starting out.'
>'Oh, I forgot to mention...she's a sloop! We were an elite privateer crew so we needed nothin' but a ship to weave in, get us to board, and get out. If sails could talk...'
>'She's a galleon. That's right--ship o' the line! Large and slow, but I challenge you to find a ship that can bring more firepower to bare than her! You might be needin' a crew to handle her effectively, but with all that ship you're sure to be an intimidatin' foe should any pirate like to raise hell or try his luck!'

Unprofessional but I need to make use of the toilet. This is still live. Keep voting!

>>3280659

>'A fine frigate she is. Built for speed and maneuverability, while being able to deliver a punch. Lightly armed. Perfect for a crew as small as yours starting out.'

Speed to start, we can get a bigger one later.

>>3280659

>'A fine frigate she is. Built for speed and maneuverability, while being able to deliver a punch. Lightly armed. Perfect for a crew as small as yours starting out.'

He'll have to teach us tho

>>3280659
>'A fine frigate she is. Built for speed and maneuverability, while being able to deliver a punch. Lightly armed. Perfect for a crew as small as yours starting out.'

Looks like we got a frigate.

File: frigate-pirate-chaser2.jpg (183 KB, 575x321)

183 KB JPG

>>3280667
>>3280674
>>3280719
'A fine frigate she is. Built for speed and maneuverability, while still being able to hold her own in a line battle. It's an all-arounder that I think is perfect for junior semen such as yourselves.' He pauses to rub his bald dome. 'You might be needin' a crew eventually--as do all seamen. Unless ya took the sloop. Anyway, I s'pose we can go take a look at her later.'

'Wait a second.' You'd almost forgotten to ask this, but...'The docks are for the navy. How did you-'

'Privateer, lass.' His tone implying you already knew what this meant and were joking. 'It's a license that lets seamen, well...engage in "private activity".'

'It means he was a legal pirate', Renne said flatly. She notices your confusion at the concept and sighs. 'Don't do much ruminatin' on it. It's before our time.'

'Oh--don't think privateers aren't still in the employ of kings and queens! Our king is steadily going broke, but I'm told other nations such as Albion and Phobos are still yet rich enough to have 'em. Heh, of course that's what war does--makes you broke.'

>(time skip) to the frigate at the dockyards.
>Engage in more conversation with the old man.
>Write in.

>>3280774
>>(time skip) to the frigate at the dockyards.

>>3280774
Tell him to teach us everything but otherwise go to the docks.

>>3280774
>(time skip) to the frigate at the dockyards.

Time skippuuuu! Writing!

>>3280785
>>3280800
>>3280804
The ship, which the old man named the Familiar, sat proudly at her dock, sails neatly furled, rocking gently to the ebb and flow of the sea. You admit, seeing her up close was far more impressive than the image developed in your mind. Renne perks up a bit but still reigns herself in. The old man casually strolls behind you a few paces and walks in, pipe between his lips.

'It's been a while, eh girl?' He takes his frail, wrinkled hand along the part of the hull he can reach and closes his eyes. 'Yes. We've had many years together, but I'm afraid I have to turn you over. Treat these two girls well now. As well as you did me.'

'Um...hey Juan?'

'Not often people refer to me by name. Heh.'

'Would you mind giving us a bit of the basics? Tomorrow--you've done a lot today and we aren't aimin' to be burdens upon ye.'

'Don't know about burdens, but I'll teach you both what I know, and how to handle her. Just try not to get wrecked as quickly as you did last night. Ahahaha! Er...too soon?'

Renne nods sternly. Yes, too soon indeed.

>Alright. Library closing soon (go figure). That's another consistent session down. Again, thanks for playing. I enjoyed writing this for you guys. I'm not sure what the max post count is, but my goal is to try to leave Panoke before I approach the limit. 1-2pm EST. Same time, same place!

>>3280865
Thanks for running, see ya

The rest of the day dragged on. You both couldn't wait to start your training tomorrow! Eventually, seconds became minutes; minutes became hours as the day became night, and the night yielded to the morning.

You're given basic seaman knowledge for the next week. The old man does his best to arm you with the stuff you need to survive. You know how to furl and unfurl sails, drop anchor, steer, get the wind, and dock. He also teaches you a bit of combat from his privateering days, informing you of a few different styles he's seen across the big blue.


>Choose a style for yourself and for Renne!

>The Duelist: Swords are lovely inventions. They can cut, slice and filet. Which means so can you, rather well too. And you can even mix up what you wield. Cutlass and sabre; sabre and broadsword; or just a greatsword perhaps?

>The Marksman: Guns, and lots of 'em. Anything that has a hammer and goes 'boom' is something you can probably swing with ease. Why, you bet you could shoot the wings off a fly...eventually. Maybe not right now, but you will hit what you aim at, and with the ability to reload faster than most, the chances of dropping your target are high.

>The Swashbuckler: A combination of the previous two styles. You won't be amazing in either, but will be competent in both.

>The Rat: Silence and roguery have their own touch. You aren't much for getting up close and personal. Why not simply sneak round an opponent's blind spot and take him out cleanly? Of course, you won't be getting into any prolonged conflict, but when you have access to several different knockout and life-ending strikes and holds, you needn't worry about prolonged conflict.

>The Brawler: The style of the street. Fitting for a street rat such as yourself. You appreciate the old man's effort, but nothing beats the harsh and dirty tactics that kept you alive. The Brawler favours tricks, brutality and a bit of wit. Bone-breaking kicks, surprise tactics, improvised weapons and dirty moves are the name of the game.

I was on time, just writing the update.

>>3283192
>>The Duelist: Swords are lovely inventions. They can cut, slice and filet. Which means so can you, rather well too. And you can even mix up what you wield. Cutlass and sabre; sabre and broadsword; or just a greatsword perhaps?
for us
>The Swashbuckler: A combination of the previous two styles. You won't be amazing in either, but will be competent in both.
for Renne

or the other way arund too

This vote is pretty important, so I'll give it more time before I continue.

>>3283192
Renne was better than us at swords so she should be the Duelist

Our character should be the swashbuckelr because its good to be flexible at the sea

>>3283320
Ok, I agree

>>3283192
>>The Brawler: The style of the street. Fitting for a street rat such as yourself. You appreciate the old man's effort, but nothing beats the harsh and dirty tactics that kept you alive. The Brawler favours tricks, brutality and a bit of wit. Bone-breaking kicks, surprise tactics, improvised weapons and dirty moves are the name of the game.
Us.
>The Swashbuckler: A combination of the previous two styles. You won't be amazing in either, but will be competent in both.
Renne

Looks like we're a swashbuckler and Renne's a duelist. Writing!

>>3283252
>>3283320
>>3283330
Renne figured she should be a duelist, given her skill with a blade. You weren't a slouch by any means, but you felt more comfortable being able to shoot and stab your way through enemies. The old man, seemingly having everything needed--a "seaman's starter kit" if you will--armed Renne with a cutlass, throwing knives, two sabres and a bastard sword. That last one was almost as tall as she was, and she couldn't wield it without difficulty. Still, she remained ever determined to keep and practice with it until the day she can effectively use it in battle. You, on the other hand, were given a few pistols and a cutlass. These pistols were repeaters--not impossible but not easy to obtain. No need to toss these when used, thankfully!

No doubt both the pirates and navy were still looking for you. On one hand, you know about Salty Sam's operations, and that made you a liability to him. The other? Though you didn't pull the trigger, you were involved with the murder of a naval officer--his death will be investigated, and the crown did not tarry with delivering justice for their fallen men of the armed forces. And in a time of war, no less!

As fate would have it, a pair of strangers would visit the old man's house, having "heard a tip" that he might know where to find you and Renne. It wasn't too late in the day, but the sun was threatening to set, and with that, the dogs would be unleashed to do their business in the open, without much fear of persecution, as all evil veils itself from the light. The pirate pushed past the old man, who vehemently insisted that he knew not where you were, but the pair insisted, claiming that they were "sent by the crown to offer protection in the murder of a naval captain". Which is true--you both were there that night, and Salty Sam would be pursuing you as would the navy, but how had they known enough--the crown that is--to actually suspect a pair of orphans?

'As previously stated, the crown is interested in securing the aforementioned children as they could stand witness to a murder. Shall we come inside then?'

>What did the old man say to the pair?
>>'You've got quite the accent on you. Where'd ya say you were from again?'
>>'But I already told you--I don't know where these supposed kids are!'
>>'Have a good night, sirs.'
>>Write in.

>>3283470
>>'You've got quite the accent on you. Where'd ya say you were from again?'


they be pirates

>>3283470
>>'You've got quite the accent on you. Where'd ya say you were from again?'

If they try to attack the old man we help him

>Go ahead and vote, but I'm gonna have to call it here for the day. Last minute dinner plans, yay! It's fun when people spring things on you with no regard for what you're doing. Sigh. 1-2pm EST tomorrow. Same time, same place. Thanks for reading and apologies. :/

>>3283470
>>>'But I already told you--I don't know where these supposed kids are!'

Big sorry to the handful of you who were participating, but I've written myself into a corner and need to take a step back and pause this quest for the time being. I'll archive it so that everything can be referenced in the future when I start this back up again.

Thanks again. I think I'll stick around qst for a while!

>>3286153
thanks for running, sad that you'll not continue right away, see you when you are back