Jammers Summary: Chapter 1, Turn 9

----------- = Meanwhile, elsewhere...
*********** = Later...

Holland asks the Captain, "What does this sponsorship entail?"

"That's something you'll have to discuss with Lady Moune. For now, your original contracts will stand until we return to Bral. I expect she plans to offer you a ship, likely this ship, as her end of the deal." the Captain answers.

Holland nods in understanding, "What about those papers? What ship is this?"

"She's the Whirlwind, captained by that half-orc, Kleobis. He didn't keep any logs, so we can't tell much else. Sabbagh and Sands will be questioning her crew so we should know more when we get to Finagle."

Holland nods again and asks, "Not to seem mercenary, but what about all of the items that we found upon the Whirlwind?"

"Your actions earned some reward. Decide what to do with these items yourselves. A test of teamwork, if you will." the Captain grins evily (an impressive sight on a giff, row after row of huge, flat molars).

After the Captain's speech, Raken gives a small smile. "Brilliant. If we do well, House Moune gets a cut of the profits. If we get in trouble, who cares? Aahh, just love those merchant houses! At least they were kind enough to allow us to use the Eelship and her helm, so they can't be as bad as some other merchants." He then walks over to talk to his former captain. It is not clear what the two are talking about, but Raken can clearly be seen pointing at various parts of the ship and even makings some odd motions with his hands. He listens when she is talking, stroking his goatee in thought. The only thing that can be clearly heard is him asking "so, will House Moune pick of the tab on the repair work to the rigging? We'll need a dry-dock to get that working again!"

"Repair it as best you can, for now. Otherwise you'll have to wait until you meet Lady Moune, assuming I decide you folks can work together," the Captain says.

Radick lifts himself up by the rigging as Raken returns from his discussions with the Captain. "Well, well, well friends. It is an audition, and from the looks of it we have only completed the first half. We have proven that we can fight in a battle, but we have yet to prove our ability to act as a team. Now first of all, we all know that a team needs a leader, and since we will be running this vessel, I suggest we keep in mind the abilities needed to complete our task." He drops to the deck and begins to pace about.

Looking over the rail towards the Flowfish, he suddenly continues and begins looking from person to person as he speaks. "But before we discuss that, Holland, if you don't mind taking first turn at the helm, we can be off and not delay our cargo and the Flowfish further. Nilaroo, why don't you and Raken examine the ship to determine what repairs will be needed, and which one's we can do while we travel. If I remember correctly we do not require as many hands to run this ship as the Flowfish. Grigree, Talus, Deigatt, and Billy - man the lines. Leera why don't you rest up. You can be next to run the helm. I will man the catapult. Kain get some rest as well, you are still not 100%. Italapate, let us see if you can handle a kitchen on your own, now that cook is not around to keep you in line."

Radick puts his hands on his hips and looks around, "There. Now as we all handle these tasks let us think about how we can run this ship as a team. Don't forget that we need to be ready for combat as well as everyday travel. We can meet as a full crew in about 6 hours, and hammer out the details then. Any objections?"

"Seems fair to me," says Billy. "I'm not a helmsman nor a navigator and will leave that to those of you with that knowledge. Of course, the selection of a captain will have to be made collectively."

Not caring too much about who takes command -- for the moment, Grigree gladly climbs up the ropes to do what he does best.

Talus listens as Radick seems to elect himself Captain and starts ordering everyone about. The young half-elf watches sourly but makes no comment.

Italapate raises his hand. "Yeah, I have one.... First off, now that the tyrants are gone, I don't have to man the kitchen. I suggest we take turns in the galley. I don't want to do that continuously...Not to mention Holland's obvious skill in the kitchen. And, I should have a turn on the helm. I am the third spell caster in this little pow-wow, and Leera and Holland can't work 12/12 shifts. Wilhemina was gracious enough to allow me to train on the helm, so I am not unskilled. I have no desire to lead this group, as you do, Radick, but I will not be the red-headed step-child of this group either. And... I consider everyone here peers... no more... no less." It is obvious that Italapate takes this seriously.

"Just because I'm not giving orders, that doesn't mean you can start taking liberties, you little punk." the Captain seems genuinely angered at being called a tyrant.

Billy responds to Italapate, "I agree. Though I may not be the best cook, some have said that my gruel is not unappetizing... But everyone should have a turn at kitchen duties."

Raken just shakes his head. "I can see that we are going to have to hire a full time servant to clean the latrines and cook for us."

Radick smiles at Italapate's response, "You have obviously mistook my words. I meant only for the time being, but if you wish to try your hand at the helm I have no problem with that."

He turns about to look at Holland and Leera. "Holland, would you mind doing us the honors of one of your wonderful meals, and Leera if you would take your rest nearby Italapate at the helm." He looks back to Italapate, "No offense intended, but just in case you need some support." Radick's face appears complete honest as he adds the end statement.

Leera replies to Italapate: "Indeed, master Italapate! I was not aware of your skill. Tell me, what type of spell casting ability do you possess? Also, I believe you owe our friend Raken an apology; you are the fourth, not the third spell caster."

"Surely," Deigatt bellows at Captain-presumptive Radick, "we har not so desperate that mate Italapate need serve hon the helm? There's no telling which star he'll be guiding hus by."

Italapate spreads his hands, and bows slightly to Raken, of Celestian's Order. "Apologies, indeed, to Raken. I made the same mistake I was protesting. I did not count those that receive their magick from their Faith." Then he turns and stares hard at the Minotaur, "And as to you, Deigatt, If I have a chance to avenge myself on those that killed my parents, I will do everything I can to that end. Besides, surely a minotaur, who does not think in such linear methods as humans, would be more appreciative of my.... unpredictability. Still, I did not pilot the Flowfish into a star, why do you think that I would do so with the Whirlwind. Which reminds me, I vote that we do not keep the name those blasted slavers chose. If this be our ship, it needs our name." Italapate then looks around at the remaining assemblage.

Grigree raises an eyebrow at this, saying quietly, "I like the name." With a shrug of his shoulders, he continues to listen.

"I do not question your habilities, Mate Italapate," Deigatt responds. "But hit his your motives which har mysterious to me hand which worry me. Your loyalty should be firstly to the ship hand your crew mates, not to your personal vendetta. Methinks we should hurn the right to the ship before we have hurned the right to re-christen hit," Deigatt suggests in low tones.

Holland sighs and then speaks up to be heard, "We have several spell casters in this group. Myself, Leera, Talus, Italapate, Raken and perhaps others. We could use at least four people to man the helm. That would mean six hour shifts. I will be one of the Helmsman, since I am rated as a Helmsman. Italapate wishes to be another. That makes two. I am going to assume that both Leera and Talus wish to be Helmsman as well. That makes four. If any others wish to be Helmsman, speak now, in the meantime," Holland motions to Italapate, "We are wasting too much time here. Italapate, you have had training. Go below and get us underway so we don't fall behind schedule. We can figure things out as we are moving."

Talus nods, "I have only sat on a helm for a short time on the ship that brought me here, but I would like to serve a watch on the helm. At least while we are in open space," he ends with a grin. Moving over to the rigging, Talus tries to work out how this ship operates and what to do.

Holland grins back at Talus and says, "I had thought you might..."

Leera speaks: "I agree with our friend Raken, here. We may as well get underway. Holland, I would be grateful if you would stay with Italapate on the Helm. I am burning to know how that illusion was designed." She pauses, "If you don't mind, I think it would be best if the helmsmen shared the two rooms closest to the helm. Wilhemina, perhaps you would bunk with the rest of the crew in the third room from the helm room?"

As the second person in a row chooses to call her by her given name the Captain explodes "MY NAME IS POST-CAPTAIN WILHELMINA, I EARNED MY TITLE AND 'PON MY SOUL THE NEXT ONE OF YOU GROUND POUNDING FOOLS TO INSULT ME BY NOT ADDRESSING ME BY MY RANK WILL BE KEELHAULED!" She takes great, deep breaths, and the bright pink around her snout slowly returns to a more normal hue. "You are not off to a very auspicious beginning. I will stay in the hold, there's more room for me there."

"Oh!" Kain exclaims, jumping in surprise. The captain's strong, loud words having caught him somewhat unawares, he says, "Sorry Captain," in apology, thinking it best to apologize just in case he had done something wrong. Paying attention to his surroundings again, Kain sees Talus working on some of the rigging, and walks over to his friend. Smiling, he speaks to Talus for a few minutes, helping out with the ropes, and then makes his way below deck. "I'll...ah...see to cleaning up around the helm," he explains as he walks down the stairs.

Raken shoots the Leera a quizzical look. "No offense, but I think our former captain would be rather cramped down there, along with Deigatt. The deck is not tall enough!" He looks around the ship for a few moments. "Perhaps we can string some hammocks on deck...After we clean this boat up and add a few...modifications we should assign crew quarters to maximize space and comfort."

Holland frowns, "The sooner we get moving, the sooner we can take the time to figure out how we are going to go about things. In the meantime, I will get a meal going. I don't know about the rest of you but I am famished after that fight. The rest should probably start repairs, especially to the hole in the helm room and crew the ship."

"I will leave you, then, all of us with jobs to do. But think about a name. The stench the slavers left is bad enough. We don't need their name as well," Italapate remarks.

Billy says, "A new name would be better, though I don't find Whirlwind unattractive... Once we are on the way, I will see what I can to clean up our new home...Anyone want to help me?"

With that, Italapate leaves the deck, heading down the stairs toward the shattered helm room. He brushes slivers of the broken portal off the chair before taking his seat. His awareness expanded, Italapate moves the ship in line behind the Flowfish. "Ready when you are, Sabbagh," he says.

Leera asks Holland: "I'd like to go memorize my spells. One of us should have something memorized in case magic is needed. Would you mind if I looked over the spell book that belonged to that mage? I'm very anxious to know how that illusion was created. Perhaps later we can attempt together to discern the powers contained by these darts." She smiles fetchingly and reaches (hesitantly) for the book.

Holland smiles back and retrieves the book for Leera, "I haven't looked at it yet, it may not even be the spell book, but I would like to look at it later," with that he hands the book to Leera.

Holland then heads down the stairs into the ship.

Nilaroo quickly makes his rounds of the ship, assessing damage and assigning priorities for repair. Soon after, the Gromman approaches Radick and the two exchange words and then part. Nilaroo approaches the remainder of the group with a cheery "So, who here has skills with rope, wood, or saw?"

"I'm no builder, but I know which way those ropes are supposed to go," says Grigree to Nilaroo. "I'll help to sort 'em out."

Kain, having just returned from cleaning up the bridge, watches the others momentarily, then sure that he won't be cutting off anyone, he speaks. "Ah, well, I'm pretty good with rigging and other ropes...though ah...hmm...mostly I've worked on ships what sailed on the seas." Noticing that those on deck are looking at him, Kain flushes somewhat self-consciously, one of his hands holding together the rents in his vest as he falls silent.

"There is no dishonor in not sailing the skies. I myself have experience on both the seas and the skies. I can teach you what you are lacking if you so desire." As the Whirlwind gets underway behind the Flowfish, Billy moves about the sail spines expertly as is needed.

"Thanks Billy," Kain smiles. "Before this Eelship and the Flowfish the only spelljamming vessel I'd worked on was a converted galleon." Shrugging, he adds, "I've been around those all my life, so it wasn't much work adjusting to sailing the stars in that. But ships with fins and...wings are new for me."

Nilaroo jumps on this opportunity, "Ah, excellent, then the two of you I can rely on to fix the rigging? It is not different than the rigging I have seen in those sea ships that have docked at Bral."

"Sure, I'll help out getting the rigging put back together," Kain says as he looks around the upper deck. "Shouldn't...ah, be that hard a task, should it Billy?"

"Well, I hope not. Nilaroo, Kain... Let's get started. I think that the most important thing to do is to fix the sail spines and try to regain some maneuverability... We smashed 'em up pretty good, eh?" Billy winks and give the "thumbs up" sign. "Having the best knowledge, I will do as you suggest, Nilaroo."

Six or so hours later, after everyone has had a chance to rest and eat, and she's had a chance to look at the book and memorize some spells, Leera rejoins the rest of the crew as they gather on the bridge according to Radick's suggestion. She carries with her a small piece of parchment, a bottle of ink, and a pen. She goes over and speaks to Holland. After a few moments she moves to speak to everyone.

She says "Friends, *ahem* Post Captain Wilhemina of the Flowfish, we need to make some decisions. It seems as though our future depends on our ability to work together. I suggest that we find answers to the most important and pressing of these. I propose that we each answer the questions that we have an interest in. I will record the ideas that are presented and later we can vote and decide in what way we will combine our ideas and talents." She then proceeds to mention a few things she thinks need to be addressed. "I suggest that Raken take charge in battle situations." Leera turns to Raken. "You are too valuable in the aftermath of combat for us to risk injury to you in a fight. As for strategy, my only comment is that you should expect me to change my appearance and create illusions in battle. My illusions will be all the more effective if you seem to believe them. Please try to use my illusions to good effect. If, for instance, I create the illusion of reinforcements coming to our aid, take advantage of the situation by ordering the enemy to surrender. It may work." She grins. "Also, please be careful of whom you punch." Leera rubs her side and gives Wilhemina a glance. "I would suggest that a captain be elected. Mate Italapate, I would suggest that you be excluded from consideration. Your, uh, unpredictability is interesting, but is not necessarily a desirable trait in a captain. 'Pon my soul, I hope you are not too offended," she says grinning.

"Upon my soul as well, I have already said I do not seek leadership," Italapate says, "No one here would follow me out of a burning building. Which reminds me... sometime when we are not busy, you must hear how Coyote stole fire and gave it to man."

Leera says, "I believe we already heard that story. Maybe later you'll tell us one about pirates!" It's hard to tell if she's serious.

Billy says "My experience in battle, other than basic hand to hand, is limited to the use of the catapult. I suggest that we keep the same strategy as we did in the last combat. Radick and I man the catapult, while the rest cast useful spells or repel boarders. Oh, yes... I have one talent that you may find useful: I know how to fight in weightlessness. I could teach it to anyone who is interested..."

Leera replies: "That sounds like a good plan. Who will man the ballista?"

Deigatt speaks "If Post-Captain Wilhemina has no hobjection, I would prefer to bunk hin the cargo hold has well. The confines hof the Eelship's quarters har too close to haccommodate my size. I hagree with the woman that we must develop sound strategies for future combat situations. Myself, I have been fully trained to lead combat units hin land and sea skirmishes, hand I feel confident I can hadapt that hability to coordinating hour defenses hon this Eelship. Hof course, I will defer to hany man who has more happropriate hexperiences hin combat situations."

Leera replies to Deigatt: "I agree. We should wait until the ship is ours before we rename her. As far as a battle leader goes, I certainly don't challenge your experience."

Nilaroo speaks up in his hollow, rumbling voice. "Although I was not selected to be a member of your company by your employer, I certainly plan to assist if we are attacked. My skills, in addition to ship repair, include the use of the catapult and ballista. In closer range, my longbow comes to hand. I have no desire to be mistaken for any but a fellow traveler, but you will have my loyalty as those who gave me my freedom."

Raken says "Though I have never served on an Eelship before, I know from talking to other crewmen that the crew requirements for one is small, perhaps no more than a half dozen sailors, perhaps less." Raken looks up from the sail he is mending. "I will not sit back when things get bloody. Though I detest drawing blood, I would rather draw the blood of our enemies than sit back and watch as my shipmates are being butchered by their blades." He then returns to his work.

Radick steps forward, "Yes Leera, I agree with your thoughts on what questions need to be addressed, certainly sleeping accommodations are a concern, and I believe since there should not be any favoritism to anyone, the three rooms should be converted to sleeping chambers for the ten of us. Deigatt has requested to sleep in the hold."

"As for your concerns regarding shifts, leave, and battle command, I believe we need to select a single Captain and a single Chief Helmsman. There should also be a backup for each of these individuals. It will be crucial that the Captain and Chief Helmsman be able to work together without any problems. I have had a conversation with Holland and it seems that he and I agree that the Chief Helmsman should be responsible for the scheduling of the helm shifts as well as the coordinating of spell use during battle. The Captain should be responsible for directing the team in battle, for setting work shifts, and for representing the ship in contact with outsiders."

"Of course, the Captain has no more authority then the rest of the crew when it comes to the decisions which affect us all. Everyone gets an equal vote."

"Now, who would be ideal for each position, the Chief Helmsman would ideally be Holland in my opinion. He has the navigator, engineer, and helmsman experience that none other have, at least as far as I have been told. Leera, you would be my selection for Assistant Chief Helmsman, should anything befall Holland."

Radick then nods to himself and adds, "As for Captain, I believe Raken would be a fine choice and I would willingly accept him, however I do feel that if someone is to be the Captain there are some areas where I feel I may be able to add to the position. Of course, I think that if I am chosen to be Captain - he would be the ideal first mate. However, I feel I am more vocal, and though a Captain need not be vocal, it certainly helps if they are willing to give direction, and listen to feedback. The second thing that now concerns me, although I had no concern about it previously, is Leera's comment that he is too valuable to risk injury in battle. I know that Raken did not make the comment, but I would certainly question any captain who was to direct the combat from behind the lines. No one of us should follow any one who is not willing to lead."

He moves to the side and adds as a final statement (for now) "I want you to know, that I request the title of captain only because I feel I can do the job. If any of you have your doubts to my abilities to lead, then speak up, for I will not be offended. This decision is too important for anyone to emotionally upset by such a statement."

Grigree shrugs and says, "The decision is irrelevant right now." He looks at the crew to see their initial reactions. "All we need now is someone to man the helm. A shift schedule would be nice too."

Grigree turns to Radick before continuing, "I'm not saying that you'd make a bad captain, just that we don't need that position. If we meet up with humans, you can be our spokesman. If we meet a bunch of minotaurs, then Deigatt should speak. It's not that hard a thing to figure out on the spot."

Raken again looks up from the damaged sail. "Though I do not seek the job of captain, I will lead if that is the wish of the crew. Nor will I turn down an offer to be first mate. As I said before, I will not sit back as you are being slaughtered. This is wildspace; one must be willing to take risks and even be a little reckless, or you'll be standing before your god in a hurry!" Then he adds "I would follow your command without a problem."

As the discussions go on, Billy adds: "In combat situations, we would have to be all present. As I recall, Eelships require a minimum crew of four: one to man the helm and three to man the sail spines. Keeping this in mind and the fact that the medium catapult and ballista each require two and three people to man properly. This would account for all of us, but two, one of which I would suggest be the captain who would coordinate all our movements. As an example, I would suggest: Grigree, and Raken manning the catapult; Deigatt, Italapate and Leera manning the ballista; Kain, Nilaroo, and Myself (Billy) managing the rigging; Holland as helmsman; Radick as captain and Talus as a spare. This, of course is only a suggestion. What I am trying to suggest is to spread the crew evenly having a warrior, a healer and a mage on each of the weapons and the crew members with more space-faring ability (and with ranged weapons) manning the ropes. If anyone has any better ideas, I'm open to suggestions."

Grigree smiles and shakes his head. "Billy, why stick me on the catapult? I barely know which way it shoots! You said yourself that you're good with the weapon. I'm good up in the rigging and in battle."

Italapate, seated on the deck drawing runes on his new short bow, looks up as the decision about Captain continues. "It is obvious, at least to me, that Radick should be Captain. After all, if one does not want the job, one cannot do it well. It reminds me of the story of Coyote and Spirit Caves.. but, never mind that. What the point is, is that Radick wants it and is the only one who seems to want it. We are all of us capable to lead, to fight... but, he wants to lead. That is more important in many ways, than any other factor. Raken says he does not care if he is or isn't. I am certain you would do a good job, Raken, but if you aren't fighting for leadership... well, the intensity just isn't there. I am agreed that the Captain represents us to outside considerations, the voice of Chaos is seldom heard or acknowledged. I am also fervently agreed that to the running of this adventure group, we be a republic."

Holland listens to Raken, Radick and Italapate and then says, "I accept the nomination of Chief Helmsman, and I also believe that Leera should be the Assistant Chief Helmsman I also vote for Radick to be Captain and Raken to be first mate."

As the discussions on the schedules continue, Billy makes a suggestion. "Since we only need three crew members to run the ship plus the helmsperson plus the "backup" helmsperson acting as the captain or first mate, I propose this," Billy stands up. "I think, first of all, that all who can act as helmsperson should. Yes, even Italapate." Billy gives the thumbs up to Italapate. "I think it would be best if everyone who can use the helm have at least some experience."

"Other than Holland, Leera, Talus, Italapate and Raken, does anyone else have the ability to use a helm? Grigree? Nilaroo? Deigatt? Kain? Radick? As for my self, I don't."

"I ham halso able to power the helm should I be needed for such duty, but I have not been trained to hoperate one." Deigatt says.

Billy continues, "Since half of us seem to be able to act as helmsperson, we should set up some sort of overlapping rotation." Billy then outlines his plan, he concludes saying "This would ensure one helmsperson, his or her second plus three to four crewmen."

Radick says "Billy, you have some good thoughts there, but also some things that just won't work well. Since no one seems to object to my taking on the role of Captain and Holland taking the role of Chief Helmsman, we will assume those positions. Raken and Leera will serve as our backups and will be expected to take our place should anything happen to us. Now, Holland and I will develop a shift schedule, bunk assignment, and general battle procedures."

Leera blushes: "I am honored at your confidence in me."

Grigree looks up from his rope-work with raised eyebrows. "'Bunk assignments'? Are you going to tell us when we can use the chamber pot too?" He shakes his head a bit and continues, "You can call yourself 'Captain' and coordinate our tactics in battle, but I won't be told where to sleep." Those nearby can hear him growl softly to himself as he waits for a response.

"Grigree," Holland says, "I believe he meant room assignments, not specific bunks."

"I know what he meant," Grigree blurts out without looking at Holland. "It's not his job to make those decisions for us, no matter what he's called."

Italapate groans. "Cripes, guys. This is absolutely opposite of what I meant! My head HURTS!!!! I agree with Grigree. We DO NOT NEED A CAPTAIN, except in matters of communication with other ships. I don't want you going off and secretly determining when, where, how, and to what extent for us. We are fully capable of hammering that out ourselves. I have not voted any of my free will away by suggesting you Captain. Remember, we were hired as equals, and equals we shall remain." He stands. "Any matter aboard this ship should be discussed in the open."

Radick turns around as he is about to leave the bridge, "Well, let's see then. If we don't have a captain, because everyone is afraid that they might be told what to do, then that is fine. As a matter of fact, don't do a damn thing. But I would like to know how anything is going to get done around here. Let's have a vote of eleven people, after eleven people all have their say, and of course don't forget rebuttals and whatever else is needed."

Radick is obviously very annoyed by this sudden desire to be spoiled brats by members of the team. "Make anyone you want Captain. I do not need the position, however I can assure you that without one, we have chaos. If you won't listen to a captain tell you what your work shifts are, then why the hell would you trust your life to them during combat!! You all sound like a bunch of whining babies. Sleep, where the hell you want!"

He is about to go downstairs when he turns to Post-Captain Wilhemina, "You know, I bet if we keep this up, none of us will have a job when we return."

The Captain gives a large toothy grin, then takes a gulp from a mug of ale. "It's much more difficult to lead then give orders. That's why I usually just give orders."

Now he does descend with a final call of, "I'll be in the helm cleaning up the place." His voice trails off with, "I don't know why I even bothered..."

Italapate blinks exaggeratedly a moment. "Wow. And we are the spoiled brats? I don't believe that strict, oppressive order is the only way to get something done."

Talus watches Radick's retreating back and comments sarcastically loud enough for the whole group to hear, "He calls us all whining babies, and then displays childish behavior of his own by throwing a tantrum and running away."

Leera follows Radick off the bridge.

Talus thinks about this for a moment and comments, "I must disagree with you there, I believe we should have a captain to oversee the ship's operation, and to lead in battle. BUT, that would be the limit of his authority, most decisions would be decided by the crew. We are all experienced adventurers and have quite a lot of knowledge and experience between us. We do not need to be lead around like children, and I would say none of us would stand for it either."

Grigree looks over towards Talus and mumbles to himself, "Why didn't anyone listen when I said that?"

The young half-elf glances at Italapate and continues, "As much as you like chaos, I do not feel that would work on board a ship. Everyone needs to have defined duties in order to keep the ship flying, and we really need a single person commanding in battles. Otherwise everyone will end up fighting as an individual and not as a team. That type of thing gets people dead."

Holland nods his head and says, "I agree. The 'Captain' in our case is just like the 'Party Leader' of a groundling group, not someone who earns ten times the shares or treasure but rather someone who helps keep things running smoothly. However, due to recent events, I think that we might think again about who we choose to be 'Captain'.

Holland looks towards the hallway Radick disappeared down. With a sigh he says to the group, "I don't see why it has to be such a big secret or such a big deal either.. Here is what I propose to the group as initial shifts:

Helm: Shift 1: Holland Shift 2: Talus Shift 3: Leera Shift 4: Italapate

Crew: Shift 1: Billy, Deigatt, Raken, Nilaroo Shift 2: Grigree, Radick, Kain"

Holland continues, "As both Raken and Leera have mention, and the more I think about it the more I agree, everyone should spend some time using the helm. I propose that once we find out whether we will be staying together on a more permanent basis and if we will be retaining the use of this vessel, that at that point we start filtering Raken and Deigatt into the Helm shifts and perhaps phasing others out or retaining everyone on the helm shifts. We can burn that bridge when we get to it but for now stick with just four because we need as many people as possible to help with repairs. Also, in the meantime, what I propose to the group is that the current four helmsman bunk in the room closest to the Helm. That would leave two other rooms for the other six, since both the Post-Captain and Deigatt have elected to sleep in the hold. An easy way to do it would be to put three in a room so everyone has some space and comfort," Holland says the last with a shrug.

Holland looks at everyone, "How do these proposals sound?"

Grigree nods his head to this.

Italapate smiles, shaking his head slightly. "I do not necessarily like chaos. Hells, I defer to those that know more than I. If I take a shift repairing the ship, I will certainly listen to Nilaroo. On the helm, hey, if Holland or Leera has anything to say, I respect that. What I do not need, is an elected leader running off in secret deciding stuff. That's all. Holland, your schedule sounds spiffy keen. I am happy that you presented it in front of us, as if we deserved the attention. I have no real preferences for the schedule, when I sit, when I work. I just hate being dictated to. Radick wants to be Captain, as I said, he should be. All I protested was his, 'I am going to go decide everything now, you twiddle your thumbs.' I don't know if I make any sense to you... " Italapate stands, turning to watch the stars. "I didn't sign on to be a lackey..."

Holland nods, "No one is expecting you to be one Italapate. The main thing is that we try to work out these difficulties now. Everyone is still a little high strung from our recent blood-letting and that might be one of the reasons for Radick's outburst."

Holland rubs his temples and then says, "What do the rest of you have to say?"

"Sounds good." Grigree says. The others agree.

Deigatt looks out the "eye" in satisfaction now that the watch schedule has been decided.. He recoils in shock. Appearing suddenly, not a hundred yards from the Whirlwind is the second Eelship. Most of the vines and vegetation have been cleared away. It's catapult and ballista are ready to fire. A black robed figure on the deck of the Eelship begins making arcane gestures, and bolts of electricity begin to crackle from his outstretched arm.

"I strongly suggest that heveryone forget this momentary confusion habout where you har hand prepare for battle! We har being hattacked!" Deigatt calls.

Italapate leans on the railing watching the stars. Suddenly, another Eelship appears. "Oh, please," he says lowering his head. "There are not that many Eelships in all of Wildspace." He bows his head, whispering a few words to himself. Then he looks straight at the Eelship... and refuses to move.

Sitting with his chin in his hands, watching the argument, Kain leaps up when Deigatt gives a call. Rushing from the bridge with the rest, he stops, quickly grabs his sword belt from under his bunk, and buckles it as he climbs the stairs.

As it has been Raken's turn to man the helm comes, he recoils in shock at the sight of the approaching Eelship. "CRAP! WE'RE UNDER ASSAULT! BATTLE STATIONS!!!" he cries out in an unnatural, disembodied voice. He swiftly considers the options open to him. The ship control is sluggish and poor, leaving him with rapidly diminishing options. "Celestrian's Staff, we're in for it now!" He desperately searches for the Flowfish, hoping aid will be coming shortly.

Holland says, "Raken, close with her and bring us to boarding distance. that should help negate their crew weapons. Everyone get up top and prepare to board. Those with missile weapons feel free to fire. Let's take the battle to them."

Holland lets the burly fighter types head up on the deck first as he follows behind them, mentally reviewing what spells he can use against the Eelship. Once on the main deck, he positions himself near the catapult.

Grigree smiles, his fangs showing, and slaps Holland on the back as he passes by. "Just what I was thinking," he says. "Maybe you should be the captain."

Holland visibly winces, whether it was from the slap on the back or the suggestion, no one knows.

Once out of the bridge, Grigree grabs his crossbow and crouches behind the ship's railing, taking aim at the mage. "Where's that stupid tradesman of ours," he mumbles to himself while checking out the situation.

Deigatt moves quickly to the ballista. "Holland! Leera! There's a spell caster hon yon ship! Stand ready to take him hif you can! Those with missile weapons prepare to defend haz Holland has suggested! Grigree! Two-Thumbs! Help me bring this ballista to bear hon the devils! Heveryone! Move! Now!"

As the crew comes topside if they choose to look around they see Radick at the catapult preparing to fire. When he sees Deigatt call Billy to the ballista, he calls out, "Hold your shot Deigatt, wait until we get closer, no reason to waste ammunition." He then speaks softly to Holland.

Holland says something back to Radick and then with slow precise strides walks over to the ladder well and heads below deck.

The Whirlwind suddenly drops out of spelljamming speed as the Flowfish, formerly 10000 yards ahead turns sharply to help engage the suddenly appearing Eelship 100 yards away from the Whirlwind.

As Holland returns below deck, Radick calls out to Leera, "Enough! End it now before we waste ammunition, spells, or someone ends up getting hurt."

Radick walks to the deck, and simply says, "If we can reconvene below deck in the helm, explanations will be provided and hopefully we can conclude the discussion that was begun earlier."

Radick the follows after Holland with his head bent over, in what might be classified as humbled regret. He certainly is not flashing any of his sparkling smiles at this time.

The black-robed mage onboard the Eelship lowers his arm to point at Deigatt. Suddenly, his face grows fearful. If you are close enough, you hear a crackle of electricity as the spell he has been holding goes awry. First his arm, and then his whole body is outlined with glowing pulses of energy. The effect soon spreads to the rest of the ship. Within moments, nothing remains where the ship once was.

As the crew stares in amazement, Leera can be heard giggling.

Grigree slowly takes his eye away from the bolt he was sighting along. His black eyes turn to Leera.

She speaks: "Friends, if that had been a real ship, we would be in dire straits indeed. Come, it doesn't matter whether we have a captain, or not. It doesn't matter if we have a chief helmsman, or not. As it happens, I think that it would be good for us to fill these positions, and the choices we made were good ones. Radick, Raken, Holland, and I will serve well."

She ceases looking amused and continues: "What is important, however, is that we are able to act as a unit when needed, not as a bunch of sniveling children."

She's really starting to look angry (her eyes even glow red and begin to spark): "I will NOT sacrifice my life because you were all too concerned with protesting bunk assignments to lay out a basic battle plan. Bunk assignments are irrelevant. Holland's plan will work beautifully. There! That's settled! Now, as far as battle plans, we don't need anything fancy, all that is necessary is that we each know our station. We have proved that we can fight and improvise in a fight. All that is needed now is to develop a plan that will put each of us into a starting position that allows us to use our skills. I want that plan, and I want it NOW, before that Eelship comes back for real!"

As Leera's tirade goes on Captain Wilhelmina moves to the railing and pulls two flags, one red, one white, out and starts to wave them in a systematic fashion. By the time Leera is finished speaking the Flowfish has returned to its original course. Replacing her flags inside her coat the Captain simply walks down to the hold, ignoring everyone.

"I think you just vitnessed our battle plans firsthand," Grigree says, having a hard time staying mad at the illusionist's odd -- yet amusing -- tactics.

She calms a little: "Actually, I'm surprised and gratified that you all worked so well together. You know, we may yet live through a few adventures. To tell you the truth, I think this is the finest group I've ever worked with."

She softens a bit more: "I'm sorry if my demonstration upset you, but I think I've proved my point. This is a fine crew that can work well together in a crisis. All we need worry about now is how we work together when there isn't a crisis."

After the illusion disappears, Billy shakes his head in disbelief and throws his hands up in resignation. "That's it! Whatever the majority decides, I will follow... Just make up your minds quickly before we start leaving each other scorpions in our chamber pots!"

Talus looks unimpressed by Leera's hysterical outbreak and replies quietly, but loud enough that all can hear, "That was a pretty trick, but otherwise a very stupid thing to do. You should take more care with your illusions, if you are not careful you may end up with a dagger in your back rather than just a fist in your side."

Watching Captain Wilhelmina signal the Flowfish, "I wonder what our chances of sponsorship are now," the half-elf asks idly.

Deigatt remains still through Leera's explanation, then his brown eyes glower at her back as she descends below decks. He snorts with fury, searching for words to express his outrage.

Finally, he manages, "What kind hof crew his this where we resort to deceit to bend others' wills?! Hif we cannot deal with each hother with honesty, then how can we deal with each hother hat hall?!"

He looks up to the stars and takes a long, deep breath. Having calmed himself he asks in a very civil tone, "Post-Captain Wilhemina, his there a substantial penalty for the killing hof human women hin this jurisdiction?"

Talus grins at the minotaur, "Only if it is proved my friend, if she was to simply vanish over the side with no one the wiser, who would know." From Talus's expression he is entertaining a few thoughts in that direction himself.

Nilaroo simply flashes a dark look at the spell caster, mutters something in his native tongue and spits off to the side. He then returns topside to continue repairing what damage he can to the spines and rigging, carrying the longbow he had grabbed in all the excitement with him.

Leera and Radick enter the helm room, where Raken sits with Italapate. Italapate, still unmoved from his perch along the railing that protects the intact portal eye of the Eelship. He is clapping slowly. "Very nice, Sweetness. Course I saw right through it. One doesn't fool the Trickster the same way twice. Poor Raken had no idea why I was laughing my ass off as everyone ran around like the Giants that Guarded fire when Coyote took it. (and no, you haven't heard that story yet). Didn't anyone notice we were at SJ speeds a hundred yards away from an attacking

ship? sheesh!!"

"At least you could have told me," Raken comments from the helm. "You people give me a headache. I'm going to need a vacation," he mutters. He then brings the ship back on course with all possible speed.

As the crew, less Holland and Nilaroo begin to re-enter the helm Radick steps forward, "It appears that Leera's idea of a test did not sit well with you. I must admit that I did not feel it was right either, but if that was her choice to do, I could not say no to her, as long as no one was in danger."

Grigree smiles at this...

Radick goes on "Billy and Deigatt, you both took charge and that is commendable, but it does show that a leader is needed. Maybe you don't need someone to make your work shifts and you don't need someone to assign bunks. What you do need is someone to help coordinate our efforts so that we maximize our use of manpower. What we do not need is threats of violence from one member of our team to another, and we also do not need people standing around during what appears to be a crisis. As you have indicated Italapate, there were some definite clues that it was not a real battle situation, why did you not point those details out rather than let the crew race about? If that had been an enemies spell we may have wasted a lot of effort."

"Friends, and I hope I can call you that despite my earlier outburst, we need to form a team. We need to work together. We need a leader to keep us from duplicating effort, and from wasting resources. I do not care if it is me or not, but please select someone." Radick looks extremely serious and unusually humble as he says these words. It is certainly a sincere plea.

"For now I suggest that since Raken is on the helm, and Nilaroo is on deck. Billy and Deigatt should join on the deck, and the rest of us either sleep, eat or work on repairing the ship. I will be getting a little sleep so that I can relieve Billy later."

As he begins to walk to the cabin which was originally the crew cabin he adds softly, "That was not a direction, just a suggestion."

Grigree smiles, looks at Radick, and nods. "I'll be up topside helping Nilaroo with the rigging," he says to the people still in the helm room as he continues towards the door. Catching up to Radick, he pats him on the back, saying, "Good plan."

Everyone disperses.

After the Whirlwind resumes jammer speed, Holland emerges from the ladder well and raises his voice to say, "There is food prepared for whenever you get hungry." He then lowers his voice and conversationally says to Nilaroo, "Could you use an extra hand with the repairs?"

"Perfect timing! Let me finish this jury-rig and I'll be right down! Yum," says Billy, licking his lips and rubbing his tummy.