Jammers Summary: Chapter 2, Turn 1

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

Picking up the cutlass, Jamila says "Shukran. Was this on any of the thugs yesterday? I don't remember noticing this in the bar."

After studying the blade for a bit, Jamila continues "This is worth much more than the effort I put in to help with Gantius..." looking around at the group, "perhaps you need another sailor when you leave this Rock?"

Radick steps forward and places his hands down on the table. "Before the items are given out, I wish to say something."

Then Radick turns to look about the room. "Yesterday I spoke my mind, and had my honor and my participation in the mission challenged for it. To that I take exception, but that is a personal issue between myself and one other and does not have a place in this discussion at this time. What I wish to address is the way in which this group is to function."

Holland arches an eyebrow at Radick's reference to yesterday and interjects, "Perhaps you can illuminate me on yesterday's discussion, I was a bit incapacitated at the time and it seems that it is a matter of heated emotions."

Placing his axe on the table he continues. "I have always worked as a loner, and I admit that being a part of a group such as this is certainly new to me, but there are some things that need to be settled first, or else I will not remain a member. I will remind you all that it was I who tried to push for a formal organization of this group - but the general belief was that we could exist as a group of individuals each with equal say. Well, if this group is going to exist, then certain general practices must be put in place to avoid further problems like the ones that occured yesterday. If we can not do that, then I might as well return to solo work."

Deigatt's eyebrows rise high into his forehead following this comment, but he refrains from speaking.

Italapate enters Jamila and Leera's room, yawning and scratching his head. He picks a small leaf from his jacket as he plops down into a chair around which the group is sitting. He leans on the heel of his hand as the Axe continues.

Radick holds up one finger as he looks from one person to the next to assure himself that they are listening. "First - before any other jobs are undertaken we must decide on how cash profits will be split. I would suggest that we follow a combination of Kain's thoughts with my own assertions from yesterday. Clearly, Lady Moune gets her share first, then of the balance we must set aside funds to cover any expected expenses for the group. The balance should then be split with some portion set aside for future use. I still hope that whatever money I may gain from this last mission will allow me to repay my debt to Grigree for his loan during my time of need."

"No need to use me as an excuse, Radick," Grigree cuts in. "Money's just money. Didn't pay to heal you to have you pay me back. Did it to save your life. Hope you'd do the same for me, without considerin' it a loan."

"Such an appointment would be wise," Holland says to Kain, "Would you be willing to undertake such an appointment?"

"Well.. ah.. if no one else wants to do it," Kain answers as he looks around the room expectantly. After a pause, during which Leera seconds the suggestion, Kain shrugs. "I can.. ah.. keep the books in order, then," he agrees.

Holland grins, "Thank you for taking responsibility for it, it is definately something that we need done."

Holland says, "That is a just and fair means of distribution of wealth. First: Moune gets her share, after we have deducted any taxes, air surcharges, or repairs/maintenance to the Silent Star. Second: Funds are diverted for group expenses, such as food and the like. Third: The remaining funds are split evenly with everyone, including the Company itself, getting an equal share." Holland looks at Radick and the others, "Does this seem fair to everyone?"

Leera sighs before responding. "Indeed it does.... In fact, it's exactly what I just proposed...."

Holland smiles and says, "I was just clarifying and summarizing, no offense intended."

Radick looks to Kain, "The problem that Kain and I had yesterday was in our expectations of expenses. I would like to suggest that someone, perhaps Kain, be put in charge of determining our expected needs whenever we put into dock. Therefore we know how much we will be getting individually when we accept a job."

Then Radick lifts the second finger, "This predetermination of who gets what, as has been done by Kain and Leera is not fair to the rest of us. Any who speak against their suggestion would be looked at as if they were power hungry. No one in our group knows all the abilities of everyone else, and therefore no one should make these decisions. I say, tell the group about the items and what they can do to the best that you can and let people make claims for them. If there is a dispute, let the individuals settle it, and if they can not then let the decision to be made by group vote. As an example of how that issue could be corrupted," Radick looks directly at Leera. "Yesterday, Leera spoke that my bracers were to be turned over so that she could examine them as well. But did she this morning reference the fact that she now bears the darts without offering them to the entire group. No, she did not, and as a matter of fact, she has never disclosed what powers they may have. Now in fairness I will turn over the bracers which our previous captain had left in my possession, and she and Kain can review them for their abilities. After which they should be described to the group. If I can make use of their abilities I will certainly put in a claim for them, but if there are others of you who would also wish their use I suggest you make your claims as well. We can then work it out between ourselves and if we can not - then let the group decide. If the bracers will only aid priests or mages then I will freely relinquish any claims I may have already made upon them."

Radick then leans against the wall as he removes the bracers and drops them on the table, then slides his axe into the axe's harness. Looking about he awaits a response.

Italapate shrugs. "If we are to watch out for each other, work as a semi-kind-of-team, the items should go to whomever can use them best or needs them most, not whomever wants them badly.".

Holland shoots a quick look at Leera and then says, "I agree. All items should be brought to the groups attention. Claims can be laid at that time. We are all adults and should be able to work any opposing claims," Holland directs to Radick, "For example, if the bracers are of magical armour, then I would like to have them," Holland rubs his stomach area and says, "As it is, all I have is my natural agility to protect me from blades. As I found out, quite painfully, agility is not enough."

Following Italapate's comment and Holland's suggestion, Deigatt adds, "The problem here his not finding han hequitable means hof distribution hof wealth but rather that the members hof this company have not yet learned to trust each hother. Hif we must bicker over possession hof a dart, how will we hever be able to make grander decisions?"

Italapate grins widely. "Practice, as they say, makes perfect!"

Holland says, "Hear, Hear Deigatt. Let's not talk about splitting apart but rather of ways to form a cohesive group."

Holland looks at the bracers and chants a few arcane words and then asks Leera, "What properties did you determine the darts had? May I see them while my spell is still in effect?"

Leera smiles and agrees. She withdraws the darts from her belt, and hands them to Holland, saying "Of course. You will find that one is imbued with your particular type of magic. The other two radiate enchantment magic."

Radick speaks in hushed tones to Holland, "Makes sense keeping a dart that is imbued with magic that you are a master of to herself, doesn't it?" Radick then looks up with a sarcastic apologetic smile.

Holland replies simply, "Since I am not really procifient with darts, it doesn't trouble me too much."

"Why don't we just take what we need instead of squabbling over equal distribution? The only things that should be distributed evenly is the cash, and only after supplies are bought. Unless of course you wish each of us to buy our individual supplies?" Billy looks at the loot gathered throughout their short adventures together and says, "I don't know how to use them other than for cleaning fish or whittling wood, but I'll take a couple of those ordinary daggers and a spare shortsword. Any objections with that?"

"Take all you want," Grigree says with a small curl on his lips. "Means I gotta carry less." With that, Grigree helps collect the weapons and miscellany on the table, and carries some of it with him out the door towards the 'Star.

Leera turns to the group, and says "I'm very sorry for not mentioning these before. I'd not realized that anyone else was at all interested in the darts. I apologize." She pauses before continuing, "So, let's get this settled.... Holland's (she rolls her eyes just slightly) proposal of how to manage the money sounds wonderful. I second Kain's nomination as official treasurer, bookkeeper, and pennypincher. As for the disposition of the magical items, I stand by my previous suggestions, and be very clear, they were only suggestions. I could care less who bears the sword and cutlass, as long as they are my ally. I merely observed that Grigree and Jamila seemed to already be familiar with those types of weapons. As for the dagger, if no one else claims it, I will use it, but I'd imagine it would be more useful in someone else's hands. I would like to keep the darts, as I am somewhat proficient in their use and lack the physical strength to wield many other weapons."

She stops and takes a deep breath before concluding "Please, I have only one request. Can we settle this quickly, and like adults? Lady Moune and our ship are waiting, and assassins may even now be entering this house."

"Comrade Leera speaks truly," Deigatt says loudly. "We will not be able to resolve hour problems hin what little time we have this morning. Let's hus gather hour belongings hand head to the ship to meet with Lady Moune. We can resolve hour disagreements once hon board."

After a brief pause, the minotaur adds, "I have no hobjection to Jamila's haccompanying hus has a passenger, but I ham not familiar with what she should be charged for the passage. Har hany hof you familiar with common passenger rates from Bral?"

"Nothing," Italapate says. "I believe that the rate for crew members is nothing. In fact, for some reason, I believe that crewmembers actually expect to get _paid_ for their assistance. Just because Moune will not put her on contract, does not mean that she is considered a passanger. I think she has proven herself to be an 'equal among equals' as it is. She pulls her weight, that is the only charge. Let's go get our boat."

"Ship," Kain smiles. "A.. ah.. boat's what a bunch of drunks take out on the lake when they try to catch fish. Oh, you know that though I'll bet. I don't mean to be rude Italapate," he explains softly. "It's just something that always.. ahh.. gets to me, calling a ship a boat."

"Yes, lets run off without settling anything once again. Next time we can have even more confusion because of it." Radick comments as he shakes his head in disbelief. He then raises his hands, "If we leave now, then I will join you, but only under the assumption that my suggestions have been agreed with and that in the future all items of value will be presented to the group openly. From there we will make claims upon them and work out our differences either individually or with a group vote if it is necessary. This is not a matter of trust or power but a matter of personal knowledge." Radick looks around to see if there is a general agreement.

"Ah, geez, 'Axe'," Italapate says as he stands and moves toward the door. "If we settled everything and had no more confusion, where would be the fun? What would we argue over, raise our voices over? Besides, Moune is giving us a ship ...... We musn't keep her waiting. And, for the record, I put in a claim on the ship!" He grins broadly, then scoots out the door.

Raken smiles himself. "Then I lay claim to the helm." Italapate laughs heartily in response as he crosses the threshold.

Radick picks up the bracers with a quick word to Holland. "These will be returned for your review once we are on the ship." With a quick set of practiced motions Radick soon has replaced the bracers on his arms and moves to the door following after Deigatt and Italapate.

It takes only a few minutes for everyone to check out and pac their gear, soon the group as formed in the inn foyer.

"One thing I do want to bring up," Nilaroo says. "An empty ship brings coin to no one. This need not be decided now, but please, think on how we will split the cost of trade goods that we could sell at distant ports- say, as we head out searching for a chalice?"

Holland replies, "I have given thought to that matter. I thought that we could use the Company's share to purchase goods for transport and trade. This would boost the Company's coffers and help provide for Company services, such as healings, magical identifications ,etc. Individuals could join the speculation with their own personal monies and directly receive their profits upon sale," Holland grins and looks at Kain, "Perhaps our new recordkeeper can keep track of the goods purchased with Company funds, as well as the amounts of individuals' stakes in the goods shipment."

"That would be something we'll need to keep a record of," Kain nods. "Another.. ah.. possibility is once we have..ah..decided where we'll be going next is to put out word that our ship is available for cargo. That way we can be paid to simply transport goods," he shrugs, "with little risk of losing our own money."

Holland says, "The shipments would be small at first until we have gained some capital," Holland looks at the group and asks, "Who has trading experience? I wouldn't know what products to buy for sale at specific foreign ports, and I know that I would do poorly at bartering."

"Sorry," Kain shrugs again. "I don't know.. well.. enough about the spheres to know what'll sell where."

"Unfortunately, when I asked around recently, no one had cargo that our ship was equipped to carry. Alcohol always sells, as will ores and metals - especially on a farming asteroid." Nilaroo answers.

"Well.. ah.. of those choices," Kain says slowly, "which do you think holds the greatest.. ah.. opportunity for profit Nilaroo?" With a frown he adds, "My guess is that alcohol would be cheap enough and.. ah.. easily enough transported to.. ah.. turn a profit."

Holland says, "The one thing to be careful of is not purchasing things that are considered contraband at the foreign port."

"Details, only, my friend. That simply involves factoring in the cost of bribes at the foreign port," Nilaroo smiles.

"One city's chief import is another's contraband," Raken says, almost to himself. "Unfortunately, there are precious few cargos that our small ship can haul. Most cargo is trasported through tradesmen or heavier ships. Doubly unfortunately, ships the size of the Silent Star trade in, how shall I say it, less than legal goods. We should be careful when in port, least the city watch take us for smugglers."

Holland nods and replies, "We need to foster the idea of being a more secure and faster means of transporting smaller and more valuable cargo to the various merchants and trading houses."

Holland stops everyone from leaving and additionally says, "And before we leave, there is another matter," Holland addresses Radick, "As you have stated, you have obvious difficulties in working with groups. This Company has to be able to work together. If you don't think that this is fesiable for whatever reason, perhaps you should consider leaving the Company. You would get your share of the monies we just received as well as, if the Company agrees, the bracers that you wear."

Holland stresses to Radick, "Don't answer now and don't think that I am trying to force you out. Just think on it. We are going to see the Lady Moune now, if you wish to leave the Company we can address it with her then." Holland concludes with a shrug, "That is all I had, if no one else has anything, we should head to the ship now."

As the Company heads toward House Moune, Italapate and Deigatt move somewhat ahead of the rest. After talking for a block or so Italapate suddenly turns around. He shouts to the rest. "Hey, Kain, get the Krynnish pieces out of your pocket and hurry up... we got a boat to catch. A big boat. A big boat shaped like an ugly fish! Boat, boat, boat!" "HAHAHAHHAHAHHHAHAHAAH." Apparently, Italapate finds himself funny at least.

Kain laughs along with Italapate. Smiling he says, "I..ah..didn't know you.. ah.. had a drinking problem Italapate. Or that you like to go fishing."

The frustration within Radick is practically bubbling over as he walks to the 'boat'. Then just as they near the docks he stops and looks straight into Holland's eyes. "I am going to say this now, so I don't embarass the entire crew. Most of you are good people, but others I can't get along with, nor they me. So, I think I should leave now, before things between us get worse.

Looking to the others, "To those of you whom I call friend and companion - good luck, and god speed." Radick turns and walks ahead of the others directly towards the Silent STAR .

Italapate stares wide eyed for a moment at Radick as he moves ahead of himself and Deigatt. He shakes his head for a moment, then turns back to the group, allowing them to catch up. "Well, Raken... it appears as if you might have been correct." He turns to the Qadim warrior, "Jam', if the Axe is gone, maybe I'm not your 'wild dog', either..... I hope we can find your vision for you. Maybe all we will have to do is replace the axe."

"..." Jamila says. Composing herself a little better after Radick's departure, she tries again "Perhaps 'Pate, perhaps. But Fate works in mysterious ways. Aywa? Radick may still help find them, Hajama willing."

The 'STAR looks to be in excellent shape, all of the previous damage has been repaired, the "eye" porthole Italapate blew open is intact, the finmasts stand tall and firm. Standing by the dock is Lady Moune, Standish, a pair of House Moune guards, and a man you can only suppose is to be her representative.

He is a fairly handsome young man who appears to be human but with ash-grey skin. Hearty and well muscled he towers over most humans at 6' 6". His movements are smooth and flowing as he walks and bespeak of impressive grace despite his size. Dressed in fine dark grey breeches and doublet his skin appears more of a normal tone by comparison. A badge with the device of House Moune is embroidered on his left breast. A black belt with silver buckle and a pair of black boots complete his garb. A well made rapier hilt protrudes from the scabbard on his right side and a main-gauche graces his other hip.

Radick approaches Lady Moune. "Lady." He bows slightly out of respect. "It has come to pass that there is an incompatability that can not be overcome. As the group has given me leave to depart from their number, I would like to request your leave as well. I am however interested in remaining in your service if you would oblige, but on a separate vessel in my original capacity as a member of the crew." Radick waits patiently.

"I willingly release you from the contract, " Lady Moune says, motioning to Standish. "I'm afraid I cannot offer you employment at this time, however."

Standish unrolls the contract on a nearby barrel and hands her a quill. With a flourish she strikes his name, which disappears once marked out, rather then simply showing a line through it. Standish then carefully rolls the parchment.

Radick then bows again and says, "Thank you." Walking directly up to Holland he says. "Your offer was for my full share of coin and the bracers. I have the bracers and will accept the 3 platinum coins that I had requested earlier. Whatever other share I may be owed can be spent repaying Grigree for my healing." He waits with his hand out.

Holland says, "I said a full share and the bracers _if_ the Company agrees," He looks at the group for their approval/disapproval, while reaching into a pouch and pulling out 3 pp, "Here are the coins," Holland offers his hand and says, "I still count you friend and if you ever have need of assistance, you but need to ask."

Radick then slips them in one of his pouches and looks at the team. "Good luck with your efforts, because you will certainly need it." Radick then walks past and soon is lost among the street crowd.

Billy sadly watches Radick walk away. He sighs heavily and turns to the business at hand. Seeing Lady Moune, Billy perks up and waves happily.

Once Radick leaves Lady Moune coughs politely, "This is Ferric," she motions to the tall man with ash-grey skin, "He will be my representative aboard the Silent STAR. Ferric is one of my up and coming young agents, I expect that working with your group will provide him with some needed experience. He understands that he is on board as a consultent, and to watch over the investment. I will of course pay his salary, but he is welcome to supplement it by working with your group, such negotiations are between you and him."

Holland nods politely to Ferric and glances at Leera briefly making eye contact before returning his attention to Lady Moune.

Billy smiles and waves to Ferric. "Hi-a Ferric! Nice to meecha!"

Lady Moune smiles again, "I have a small gift for you, I have taken the liberty of having tools and supplies loaded aboard at House Moune's expense, including a month's worth of food and water. Your vessel is ready to sail when you are."

Italapate smiles, his left hand behind his back. He bows deeply at the waist, and takes Lady Moune's hand in his right hand, kissing it delicately. "You are ever generous, milady." He stands. "You really have no idea what trouble you have assuaged with your 'gift'." He steps aside, extending his right hand to grasp Ferric's forearm. "Welcome, Ferric, to the Silent Star. You are to be milady's representative? You have large shoes to fill then, my friend. Very large shoes," he laughs. "You have no idea... these shoes were huge!" He extends his hands to his side, demonstrating how large the shoes actually were. "Very big shoes," he finishes with a confidential whisper in Ferric's ear. Then he steps aside to let the others greet as they see fit.

Ferric smiles as he returns Italapate's forearm clasp. "You must be Italapate. You made quite an impression on our lovely Wilhemina from what I have heard." He puts a foot atop the large chest at his feet and leans on his knee. He looks over the rest of the party, a small smile touching his lips as his eyes alight upon Jamila. "From what I have heard you are Billy, you Diegat, Shipwright Nilaroo, Grigee, Leera, Kain, Talus, Holland, and Raken. You," Ferric looks closely at Jamila, "I do not know of however. I do not believe that your name was listed among those of the other members of this band." He looks at Lady Moune with a questioning glance before returning his attention to the group.

"Saheeda, representive Ferric" Jamila replies while taking in this tall new comer. "Jamila bint Setara, sailor." she adds with a slight nod. "You are a tall one aren't you, ain't you? Aywa?"

"Tis a pleasure to meet you Miss Setara and yes, among humans I am a bit large." Ferric smiles, "This little excursion looks as though it will be more enjoyable than I had hoped."

Lady Moune smiles, "I'd almost forgotten, she and Nilaroo spoke with Standish a day or so ago. If the company is willing to vouch for her, I would be happy to have her take Radick's place on the contract."

Deigatt clinches his fists tightly and stares intently at Italapate. His nostrils flare as each of his heavy breaths escapes them.

Italapate puts a calming hand on the minotaur's forearm. He speaks to him quietly.

Grigree notices Diegatt's expression, and moves towards him. He then leans over and starts to whisper.

Deigatt looks briefly at his orange comrade while he listens to Grigree's question, but instead of answering he looks quickly to Lady Moune, then again at Italapate, and finally to Jamila. His face is a mask of anger, but his mouth remains quiet. After a moment, the minotaur's features soften, and a look of resolve begins to massage his face. He turns his head to Leera and asks pointedly, "Does the company vouch for Jamila's trustworthiness, Comrade Leera?"

Leera laughs and shakes her head. "No, no, Deigatt! You're not going to get me that easily! I'll not presume to speak for the company. As for myself, though I don't yet know her well, I look forward to the opportunity to do so that this voyage will bring. I'm sure that we'll all learn much about each other! As for 'Comrade Jamila', has she given you any reason to distrust her? She performed well in our recent battle. I, for one, can not give any good reasons to not trust her." Leera catches Holland's eye, and rolls her eyes ever so slightly.

Deigatt's eyes narrow, and he sighs disappointedly.

Turning to Jamila, Leera speaks, "Jamila, if you are in truth to join our company, you should know that we have all sworn to protect and guard each other. Will you swear a similar oath?"

Deigatt looks down at Ferric and eyes him appraisingly. With his left hand, the minotaur rubs the gold hoop hanging from his ear.

"She has already fought beside us and does not snore nor brag. I have spoken for her once to Standish, and I will do so again." Nilaroo rumbles, stepping forward.

jamila smiles, swears the oath as Leera asks then signs her name to the contract, taking her place in the Company of the Silent Star.

Holland smiles widely and says, "You are indeed gracious Lady Moune," looking at the group Holland adds, "M'Lady, and Ferric, for notification we will be departing to Shipwrecker and Wrighters in the next day or two. We have room in our hold if you would wish to side-commission us to transport any goods there for you," Holland motions to Kain, "Additionally, we have some monies that are due to you in accordance with our contract. Should we pay them to Standish now? Or would you prefer we came by the Moune House?"

Lady Moune glances at Standish, who sakes his head. "I'm afraid we have nothing going to Shipwrecker that soon, working freelance for a bit, eh?" She smiles, "I miss the independence of that! Yes, it seems the contract you undertook was successful, Standish will be happy to take the payment."

Holland returns the Lady's smile and says, "Yes Mi'Lady, it was successful."

Kain opens the flap on his rucksack, and quickly finds the small bag containing the House's payment. Checking to make sure the knots of the drawstrings are still as tight as they were when he tied them, Kain clucks contentendly. "Ah.. here you are Standish," Kain smiles. "The first payment."

Standish takes the pouch offered from Kain and scribbles a few notes as Kain tells him softly how much is there.

"If someone would care to enlighten me as to the sleeping arrangements I would like to stow my gear." Ferric thumps the large chest under his foot with sole of his boot. "Shipwright Nilaroo would you mind securing my chest to the floor of the bunkroom? It would not do to have a loose object this size in our sleeping quarters. I will compensate you for your services if you require."

"As long as the proper tools and supplies have been installed on the ship, it would be no difficulty." Nilaroo rumbles in reply.

Billy looks at his friends and says, "Well you all have your gear with you. I have to go and get my stuff at the place where I was staying and also stop off and buy a few personal items... I'll be right back... Can't go around looking like *this*" Billy walks onto the Star and disappears inside. A few moments later, an older, bent-backed halfling walks out and down the gangplank. When he speaks, it's with Billy's voice, "Be back in a jif..."

Date/time: 10:10 am 18th day of the 4th Month, 5049 OC