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Role Play => Ongoing RPs => Topic started by: Tyler294 on Oct 30 2018, 06:09 AM

Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Oct 30 2018, 06:09 AM
(https://www.dropbox.com/s/10m6mkgsmon2mu2/AoR%20-%20The%20Gauntlet%20of%20Izabran%20NS.png?dl=1)

(http://rpgrating.com/ratings/113.png) (http://www.rpgrating.com)

Genre = Fantasy
Setting = Age of Retribution
RP Type = Action/Comedy
How to join = Invite Only
Participants: Dead Jim, Shawnex, Tyler294
Discussion Thread (http://forgerp.com/forums/index.php/topic,68.0.html)


~Index~

  • 1-??  --  We don't begin in a bar? (http://forgerp.com/forums/index.php/topic,135.msg99162.html#msg99162)
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: Pirates of the Boiling Sea
Post by: Tyler294 on Oct 30 2018, 06:41 AM
The bodies of a ten-thousand soldiers littered the once pristine meadow. The men and women of more than five nations lie dead or dying atop the trampled grass. The rumble of horse hooves sounded in the distance, as the calvary of the victorious army chased down and captured or slew the stragglers of the defeated one. Yet, while the battle had ended, two men at the very center of the blood-soaked battlefield were about to end something greater, they were about to end a war.

On his feet stood the young general, in the prime of his life and the height of his career. His armor had been battered and his handsome face dirtied, yet here he stood noble and proud in victory. On his back lie the dying emperor, aged beyond his years from war and heartbreak. His left arm was severed at the elbow and his stomach pierced by steel, but still he clung to life as he gazed up into the eyes of his vanquisher. Over twenty years of near-constant conflict had brought these two here, to this defining moment in the history of their kingdoms, and their lives.

“So… it is done…” spoke the emperor, his voice weak and bitter, “The world has once again taken everything from me.”

The general did not respond, rather he allowed his defeated opponent the chance to speak what he willed in these last, fleeting moments of his life.

“My wife, my children, my friends…” the emperor wheezed, before gazing across the battlefield, which was littered with the youth of his country and those of his allies, “My empire…”

His gaze shifted to his own arm, still strapped into the gauntlet he had fashioned for himself so many years ago. It had seen many additions and decoration since those days, yet its function had remained ever the same, but it had not been enough. None of it had ever been enough.

“My nation’s honor…” he continued, his eyes remaining fixed on the gauntlet for a moment longer, before finally turning back upward toward the general, “...and now my life.”

“It didn’t have to be this way, emperor.” the general finally responded, “All this destruction could have been avoided had you only sought peace instead of war. But as you said, it is over now.”

He looked upon the defeated emperor with pity, almost pained to see the man he had campaigned against for almost three years reduced to such a state. A dozen Cerulean generals had lost their careers, and sometimes their lives, in their efforts to stop the Veridian conquests. Only Kyrus had managed to finally turn the tide of the war, though he would be first to admit that if not for the lessons learned from his failed predecessors, even he could not have accomplished it. An enemy such as this was one worthy of respect.

“It’s not too late, Tarek. Even now, God can forgive your transgressions and you will be welcomed into his eternal realm. I can summon my confessor to administer the cleansing ritual, should you be willing.” the general offered, hoping that perhaps the “Heathen Emperor” could be saved in his final moments.

But that was not to be.

“Ha! Eh-heh, heh.” the emperor sputtered with a pained smile, “If there… if there is one thing this world cannot take from me… it is… my conviction.”

Blood began to roll over his lip as he coughed and laughed, his head settling back into the dirt and his eyes looking up to the midday sky.

“I will never… bow… to a false god…”

Inhaling sharply, the emperor made one last garpled moan, before his last breath slowly finally left his chest. No further sound was made from the one named Tarek Izabran, for the emperor was dead.

“So be it.” the general sighed, bowing his head and leaning on his sword slightly in exhaustion.

There he stood for several minutes, alone among the bodies, silently uttering prayers of gratitude for his deliverance from the fate so many others had suffered. Once a royal knight sworn to the crown, he had always lived to serve God, King and Country, and he would gladly give his life for those things. Still, he was far happier to have avoided it.

“Kyrus!” a familiar voice finally cut through the silence, accompanied by the clanking sound of heavy armor.

The general looked up, seeing the face of a man he’d known since his earliest days, donning a bloodstained, but far less battered suit of armor similar to the one that he wore. The new arrival was a welcome sight amidst this vision of desolation.

“Dimitrius.” Kyrus smiled weakly, turning and embracing the man, “It is good to see you, brother.”

“It seems my army and I arrived in time to pull your arse from the fire yet again.” Dimitrius laughed, before retracting from his brother’s arms and turning to observe the lifeless emperor at their feet, “So, that bastard is finally dead, is he? It is a glorious day, indeed.”

Kyrus did not respond, instead he stiffly bent-over and plucked the severed arm from the mud, promptly unstrapping the gauntlet from the dismembered limb. Dimitirus’s eyes widened in awe, as there were few men left in Acrylia who did not know about Tarek’s gauntlet and the Shards of Losh.

“The Shards are ours now! With these weapons at our disposal, retaking Veridia, properly this time, will be effortless! And after that, we can finally seize control of the coastal states!” Dimitrius grinned, “The king will grant us lordship for this, if not even more!”

But Kyrus shook his head somberly, not daring to place the gauntlet upon his own hand.

“These are powers not meant for mankind, little brother.” he rebuked his sibling, “The gauntlet shall be turned over to the Church; they will know what to do with it.”

He turned to leave, but Dimitrius grabbed him and held him where he stood.

“You and I did this together, Kyrus. Together. You may have been the one to inflict the final blow, but remember it was I who cut his legs out from under him! I bore all the dishonor so that could remain pure in your beliefs. This is not a decision you can make without me.”

“It was never my decision to make.” Kyrus retorted, “I have orders from the Inquisition to turn the Shards over to the Patriarch himself. Or would you have me defy a direct order from the Church?”

Dimitrius bit back an angry response, but quickly thought better of it. After a moment of contemplation, he reluctantly nodded in submission.

“You are right. Forgive me, brother.” he said in a more subdued tone, though he managed to force a smile after a moment, “I’m sure we’ll still be granted lordship.”

“And I’m sure you’d make a fine lord. Hell, the king might even make you a governor.” Kyrus chuckled, before looking away, “As for me though, I have little interest in politics. As soon as I deliver this gauntlet to the Patriarch, I’m going home…”

Dimitrius could tell by the distant look on his brother’s face that the man was sorely missing his home and family. Though the younger brother did not mind the campaigns himself, the elder was a far different story.

“How long has it been since you’ve seen them?” Dimitrius asked.

“Over two years…” Kyrus looked off into the distance, “Two years too long. I’ve missed so much…”

The general chuckled slightly, certain things coming mind as he dwelt on time he’d been away.

“I gave Lydianna a wooden sword last time I saw them. According the latest letter I received, she hasn’t put it down since. Ha! Isabelle is beside herself! Her daughter wants to be too much like daddy.”

Dimitrius laughed heartily at that.

“How old is she now?”

“She just turned five a couple months ago.” Kyrus shook his head, mood turning somber again, “As I said, I’ve missed too much. I won’t miss the next one.”

Holding the gauntlet up in his hand, the Cerulean general closed his eyes and imagined he was home, his wife in his arms and daughter on his lap. They were so far away, yet the knowledge that his time away from them was ending soon helped to sooth his spirits. All he had to do with deliver this blasphemous artifact and he’d be free.

“Can I trust you to handle things here?” he opened his eyes and looked up at Dimitrius.

“Of course.” Dimitrius put a hand on his brother’s shoulder, “Say hello to the womenfolk for me.”

“I shall.”

Kyrus embraced his brother once again, before pulling away and trudging across the gore-soaked battlefield back to the distant warcamp. He would gather a group of horsemen to ride with him, then he’d immediately depart for northernmost pass through the barrier mountains and into Cerulea. The war was over, so there was no longer a need for the kingdom’s greatest general. No longer would he be Royal General Kyrus of Cerulea, instead he would be Sir Kyrus of Leers once more. But most importantly, he would once more be the father and husband he had been unable to be during these years of war. Finally he was going home.

Or, so he thought…
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: Pirates of the Boiling Sea
Post by: Tyler294 on Oct 31 2018, 09:28 AM
Starlight Bay, fifty miles from the city of Eastport...

“DROP CANVAS!”

The cry rang out from the aftcastle as wind and rain belted relentlessly against the brigantine’s sails. Crewmen scurried and slid across the deck, grabbing ropes left and right. Amidst the gale, the sails threatened to blow away completely, taking any men trying to hold them down along with.

“Put your backs into it, men!” the captain roared from the railing above.

“SIR!” a panicked cry came from the bow of the ship, barely audible over the wind and thunder, “WE’RE HEADING STRAIGHT FOR THE LANCES!”

The captain’s head snapped upward, his weathered, bearded face illuminated by flashes of lightning. Rain made a continual pattering sound against his silver helmet as he shouted back to the man ahead.

“WHICH WAY TO GO AROUND THEM?!”

“THERE IS NO WAY AROUND THEM!”

The captain moved to starboard side of the bridge, leaning over the railing to see past the sails, ropes and men that were blocking his forward vision. Straight before them, silhouetted by the continual flashes of lightning, were hundreds of tall, thin rock formations jutting out of the thrashing sea. The Lances were notorious for being the doom of any ship foolhardy enough to stray into their midst, and it was nearly too late to veer-off already.

“BELAY MY ORDERS! HOLD CANVAS! HELM, HARD TO PORT!” he bellowed at the helmsman.

The helmsman tried to turn the make the turn, but the resistance from the sea slowed his progress. The captain impatiently shoved him aside, taking the wheel himself.

“I'll handle it, myself! Get down there and help them with the ropes!” the captain barked.

The man nodded, then went to descend to the lower deck, before the captain suddenly called him back.

“Ah, sailor? Get me my stool first, will ya?”

“Aye, Cap’n Jeff.” the man nodded, chasing down the stool that was sliding from one side of the bridge to the other, placing it beside the helm, then helping the short-statured Dwarven captain onto it.

“Thank ya, mate. Off ya go then.” the captain waved the man away, then turned to face forward again, clenching his jaw, and tightly gripping the helm, “Now then, let’s see what ya got, ya stupid rocks!”
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: Pirates of the Boiling Sea
Post by: DeadJim on Oct 31 2018, 04:41 PM
One of the crew members finished securing a rope, before smiling at the danger before them. "This is where the fun begins!"

"Ya like staring death in the face, Eamon!"  Replied the exasperated first mate as he frantically tried to maintain order, "Ya freaky! Ya downright freaky!"

"Whaa?" Another crewman gasped as he looked at the first mate. His face dropped as he let go of his rope. The one named Eamon, a handsome man in his late twenties, ran after and jumped for the rope, just before it went flying out of reach.

"I weren't talkin' to ya, Luetenberger!" the first mate snapped. "Eamon's freaky! And he almost jumped over the edge of the ship just to catch a rope!"

"Oh," Luetenberger sighed in relief. He was a tall man, taller than most anyone on the ship, and large enough that he could easily lift the first mate with one arm. His relief was shortlived though, as his eyes widened in alarm. "Uh oh... Barry? I... I lost my rope."

"I kner that Luetenberger! And ya not supposed to call me Barry! I'm yer superior now!"

"But, my rope Barry?" the man said nervously as he began wobbling around the deck looking for his lost rope. As he passed by, Eamon held the rope out to him, but he just shook his head and moved on, as he knew that wasn't his rope.

The first mate sighed as he ran up the steps and up to the captain.

"If we live through this, ya might want to examine the sanity of ya crew!" he yelled over the storm.

Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: Pirates of the Boiling Sea
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 01 2018, 09:21 AM
"What? I can't afford healthcare for this crew!" Captain Jeff roared in response, "Ya know how much them psychopatheropologists people cost?"

Just then, the entire ship jolted violently as it skimmed across the top of one of the shorter lances that was submerged below the surface.

"BAH! Look what ya made me do? Stop distractin' me, Finnbarr!" the dwarf snapped, "I just made the last payment on this ship too!"

Just then, the doors to the lower deck popped open and the skinny, dark-haired cabin boy scurried out and over to the captain's side.

"Cap'n Jeff, sir! The cook be wantin' to know if ye mind tonight's supper havin' a little extra paprika in it? Like say, the whole jar?" he asked breathlessly.

"DAMN IT, BOY! NOT NOW!" Jeff bellowed, "Can't ya see I'm busy!"

"Actually, the name be "Roy", not "boy", sir." the lad responded.

"Shut up and get back below deck! Tie-off the cannons so they don't shift! Move it!"

"Aye-aye, sir!" the lad responded with an enthusiastic salute, before vanishing below deck again.

Jeff's head shot to his left, his brown eyes boring into the first mate.

"Why are ya still just standin' there, Finnbarr!?"

 
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: Pirates of the Boiling Sea
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 01 2018, 03:02 PM
"I'm..." Finnbarr began to respond, before a wave sent him crashing to the deck, "..Not any more! Ya stupid water!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: Pirates of the Boiling Sea
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 01 2018, 03:35 PM
"What are we supposed ter do, Captain?!" shouted a pirate on the crows nest, "We're supposed to have a smooth sailing than ruff sailing! Get your mind-UAAAAAAAAAAAAAAP!"

The strong wind blew the pirate off the crows nest and crashed on top of another pirate.

"OAF!"

"AY!" snapped the crushed pirate who had a scruffier beard than the other, "How many times do I have to tell ye of crashing on TOP OF ME, Deve?!"

"Excuse me for living, Broose!" toddled Deve and got off of Broose, "Besides, how was me supposed to know that we would run into this storm? Heh?"

"You should've thought of it before hand!"

"Me should've thought? Well, if that's thee case, prepare ye self ye scaly-WAH!"

A heavy swoosh of water from the waves pushed Deve across the boat to the other end.

"Prepare...what?" Broose chuckled.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: Pirates of the Boiling Sea
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 01 2018, 04:38 PM
"Prepare tuh be keelhauled if ya don't get back to work!" Jeff shouted from above.

Just then, the entire ship was rocked again as it struck another rock, though this time the collision was accompanied by the sound of cracking wood.

"Oh, blast it all!" the captain spat.

Muscling the helm as hard as he could, the ship finally began to veer away from the center of the Lances, but they still had to escape the ones they had already entered.

"You two!" he shouted down at Deve and Broose, "Get those sails up again! We need all the wind we can carry!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 01 2018, 04:54 PM
"Aye Captain!" replied Broose as he hurried to climb up to the sail to release, "Come on Deve! Help me with that sail!"

Deve got up after he heard Broose's order and hurried to climb up as well. They got to the front sail and struggled to untie all the ropes to release the sail. And with little luck, the sail was released.

"Give it all ye got Captain!" called out Deve, "And hurry!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 01 2018, 05:03 PM
Jeff gave it all he had. The ship was tossed and turned, nearly crashing into a couple of mountainous formations, but always being maneuvered to safety by the skilled captain. Soon they began to pull out of the Lances again and into open sea. The storm, though still significant, had begun to slow slightly at last.

"We're out, lads!" the captain roared, "We'll take the long way home, but by golly we're make 'ere there!"

A cheer went out from the crew, now that the danger had passed.

"..."

"Now haul up those sails again! We don't want them rippin' off in this wind! Hop to!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 01 2018, 05:12 PM
"They cheer as if that was difficult," Eamon chuckled as he began to climb the mast.

Meanwhile, Luetenberger had found a rope! He climbed up to the bridge and was about to present it to the first mate, who he found sprawled on the deck.

"Barry!" He smiled as he dropped his rope and easily lifted the man to his feet.

"Put me down!" Finnbarr yelled as he broke free from the man and brushed off his clothes. (Though since they were soaked, it made no difference.) "What are you doing up here!"

"I found my rope!" Luetenberger replied proudly as he closed his eyes and extended his hands. His empty hands.

"What rope?!"

He opened his eyes and examined his hands closely. After finding that in fact there was no rope, he started to again search the ship.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 01 2018, 05:32 PM
"Captain? We just released it!" protested Deve.

"You heard him!" snorted Broose as he began to the sail back up, "Haul up the sails!"

"Errrgh! Wish there's a way to make these sails go up and down on their own." he grumbled to himself.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 01 2018, 06:14 PM
With his ship and crew safe, Jeff stepped down from his stool and leaned against the railing.

"Twas a close one there, but nothin' is gonna stop us this time, Finnbarr." he said to his first mate, "Once we get that haul of fish to ol' Clarence Corbaine, we'll finally be free to start making a profit again. Too think, all we had to do was catch a bunch of fish..."


Eastport, the next morning...

"WHERE'D ALL THE FISH GO!?!" Jeff roared.

When the crew opened the massive tank that had been retrofitted into the cargo bay to store the caught fish, they found it completely empty, save for a couple of dead floaters. It was also filled with water, and one could see all the way to the bottom of the bay through a crack in the bilge.

"Looks like one of the rocks penetrated..." one of the crewman remarked, "And all the fish slipped out through the crack. Suppose we're lucky, if the breach had been anywhere but the tank, we'd have sunk."

"LUCKY!? We've lost everything!" Jeff grabbed the man and threw him into the tank, "The Corbaines are gonna be here any minute to collect! What I am supposed to tell them!?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 01 2018, 07:14 PM
"But... Now he can't answer you," Luetenberger explained, "you threw him in the tank."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 01 2018, 07:20 PM
"Then by all means, go down there and fish him out so he can answer me!" Jeff snapped.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 01 2018, 07:27 PM
Luetenberger nodded, grabbed a nearby fishing net, and climbed down into the tank. He then threw the net around the man and attempted to haul him out.

"Well this is interesting." Eamon commented, as he walked up behind the captain, "You're not going to try to convince the Corbaines he's a jobblehanger, I hope."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 01 2018, 07:35 PM
"He's got the brains of one!" Jeff threw his hands in the air.

"Ya know, captain, I'm not so sure I wanna hang around to meet the Corbaines if we don't have no fish." one of the crewman stated.

"Aye, they be known to be hard on contractors that fail them." another added.

"I dunno about you lot, but I'm bailing! Captain ain't gonna have the dough to pay us anyway!" a third growled, before moving toward the gangplank to debark from the ship.

Some of the other crewmen nodded and began to leave as well.

"Oi! Get back here ya lily-livered bilge rats!" Jeff shrieked after them.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 01 2018, 07:46 PM
"Look at the Brightside Captain," Deve pated Jeff's back, "At least we home."

"That's not the point, stupid." whispered Broose and facepalmed.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 01 2018, 08:11 PM
"Home is my ship, DEVE!" Jeff snapped.

"Aye, a mighty fine ship it is." a voice spoke-up from behind them.

Looking up, the captain and crew found a group of Corbaine enforcers standing upon their deck, led by one Clarence Corbaine, nephew of the family patriarch himself. Red-haired, dark-eyed and as ruthless as any Eastport crime boss, he was not a man to be trifled with.

"I'm hopin' ye put it to good use, Jeffy, 'cause I'd hate to have to take it away from ye." Clarence continued, approaching the open bay door with his men.

"Ah, yes... of course! When have I every disappointed ya?" Jeff stuttered, before leaning over to Finnbarr and whispering of the corner of his mouth, "Close the tank."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 01 2018, 08:16 PM
Finnbarr nodded and began to nodded to a some of the remaining crew members, and they began to close the hatch to the tank.

"Barry, whatcha doin?" Luetenberger yelled up, "I almost got'em!"

Finnbarr then started to whistle loudly, hoping to cover up the sound coming from the tank.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 02 2018, 06:56 AM
"And what do ya think ya doin'?" the crime boss inquired, raising an eyebrow.

"Oh, nothin' at all! It's just standard procedure to keep everything closed up below decks." Jeff smiled innocently.

"Stand aside." Clarence pushed the diminutive dwarf out of the way and forced the crewman to stop what they were doing so he could get a look down into the tank.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 03 2018, 10:13 AM
...where he saw Luetenberger carrying a fellow crew member in a fishing net.

"Hey Mr. Corbaine!" He yelled up as he waved. "Duncan has to tell the captain what to tell you, so I'm bringing him up!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 03 2018, 10:39 AM
"Ya do that, sailor. Ya do that." Clarence scrunched his lower lip and nodded, before turning toward Jeff, "I must say, Captain Jeff, I know ya would one day disappoint me, but ne'er did I think ya'd do it so..."

He glanced back down the tank at the dumb giant and the netted crewman.

"...hilariously..."

He turned back toward the captain, crossing his arms he shifted his weight to one side and shook his head.

"Unfortunately, no one is laughing, meh' dear captain." he said, "Ya see, I told the buyer I'd have his jobblehangers by a certain deadline, and being late on a deadline is very bad for the reputation. Bad reputation costs money, Captain Jeffy, and what I have told ya before about money?"

"Money is blood, sir..." Jeff responded weakly.

"Aye, money is blood. And when money is lost, blood is lost too... ya get what I mean?" Clarence continued.

As he spoke, the enforcers began to reach for their swords.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 03 2018, 11:30 AM
"Now see here Bucko!" protested Deve with an angry look to Clarence, "He accepted your deal to catch fish! But we ran into a storm and crashed into thee lances and got zee hole! If you're so smart to deal with anyone, THEN WHY DON"T YOU COME WITH US SEE NEXT TIME HOW IT"S LIKE TO GO FISHING AND CRASH INTO ROCKS! HAH?!"

"Careful Deve." whispered Broose, "That makes things worse!"

"Not as worse as me-uh...um...me...Haircuts!" Deve spoke out.

"You don't get haircuts." Broose frowned.

"Exactly the point!" agreed Deve, "Everything gets worse than making a mad pirate !"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 03 2018, 11:44 AM
"Insolent ruffians." Clarence muttered, "But I won't hold ya responsible for the failure of yar captain. Mr. Centos, please kill Captain Jeff. Try not to make too much of a mess though, please."

The lead enforcer grinned as he drew his cutlass and approached Jeff. The captain drew out his own short sword in response.

"This is unnecessary! We can still make the catch by ya deadline!" the Dwarf pleaded.

"I'm afraid 'tis already too late for that, my friend." Clarence shook his head, then gestured for the benefit of his minion, "Kill him!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 03 2018, 11:57 AM
"Huh? But, if he's your friend... why are you going to kill him?" Luetenberger asked as he emerged from the tank.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 03 2018, 12:10 PM
"What? No, of course he ain't my friend!" Clarence snapped.

His boss speaking again caused Centos to turn his head and hesitate for just a moment. It was all Jeff needed.

"RRARAAAHHHH!!!" the dwarf bellowed, bullrushing forward and headbutting the enforcer's stomach, then driving him all the way across the deck and ramming him into the railing.

"Wuh-- WAH!" Centos yelped, as he flipped over the railing and fell into the water.

"What, stop this! Men, stop them!" Clarence barked as his remaining enforcers, of which there were only four.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 03 2018, 03:20 PM
"Finally!" Eamon said as he drew his sword and began attacking two of the men. Finnbarr drew his sword as well, but he didn't intend to use it as he slowly backed away from the fighting.

//8, 7//
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 05 2018, 07:16 AM
"Lets teach those lazy-lobsters a lesson!" Broose spoke out to Deve as they drew their swords and charged toward the other two men.

"Prepare to be sorry for messing with our business!" sneered Deve while fighting the one man.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 05 2018, 07:37 AM
"What is-- STOP THIS AT ONCE! HOW DARE YOU?!" Clarence shrieked, not used to his people being challenged.

The first two enforcers easily blocked Eamon's ambitious attempt to attack them both at once. Exchanging quick nods, one of the men broke away to go after Jeff, while the other remained to fight Eamon.

The second pair of enforcers engaged Broose and Deve, quickly showing themselves to be superior fighters to the two pirates. Luckily, there were still a couple other crewmen left who moved to help.

//9, 10 def, 4 atk//
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 07 2018, 07:11 PM
Eamon, annoyed that one of his opponents had cowered away from battle, put all his energy into swinging his blade at his rival's neck.

Luetenberger tapped on Jeff's shoulder as the enforcer approached.

"Cap'm Jeff? Do you want help?"

//6//
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 07 2018, 09:11 PM
It wasn't that the enforcer failed to attempt to defend himself, but it seemed he failed to anticipate the ferocity of Eamon's attack. His own sword was pushed aside, as the tip of his assailant's blade slashed across his throat. It wasn't a deep wound, but it didn't need to be very deep to send a man collapsing to the deck choking and gagging.

As this was happening, the two enforcers fighting Deve and Broose were starting to win their respective fights, as they had the two pirates on the ropes.

Meanwhile, Jeff jumped in response to the big man's arrival. But he quickly recovered and stepped aside to let him past.

"If ya would be so kind, Mr. Luetenberger." Jeff gestured toward the approaching enforcer.

With that, he left the enforcer in the capable hands of the giant, and went after Clarence Corbaine himself. The crime boss was already edging toward the gangplank, though he drew out his gold-laden sword when Jeff approached him.

"Stop this insurrection at once! If ya continue, I will be forced to take drastic actions not just against ya, but yar ship and crew as well!" he snapped.

"I think the time for words has passed, Clarence." Jeff growled.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 08 2018, 03:19 PM
The one enforcer who fought Deve kicked him at his shin and punched him to the ground.

The other enforcer tried to stab Broose, but missed. Broose dodged in a circle and got behind the fighter and successfully kicked his butt which made him crash into the railing near the edge of the ship.

"Ya didn't see that comin?" he chuckled and pointed his blade at the enforcer's chest, "Shall I stab you? Or shall I throw you to the sea?"

"Uh, Broose?" groaned Deve, "Need help here!"

"Not now, Deve!" Broose snapped back, "Can't you see I'm busy discussing what to do with this foo?!"

"Forget him and HELP ME!"

"I SAID NOT NOW!" Broose turned to Deve and yelled and accidently got his blade off of the enforcer, "I'M BUSY WITH THIS-DAH!"

The enforcer fought Broose again by surprise and gaining back his victory.

And as for Deve, he rolled out of the way as his fighter slammed his sword at the floor. He got up, but still had the pain from his leg.

"Oh now you asking for it, Bucko!" he growled and fought back at his fighter. But with his pain, the forcer might defeat him.
 
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 08 2018, 03:23 PM
"Help Cap'm Jeff, Duncan!" Luetenberger said as he threw the netted crewman onto the enforcer.

Eamon cleaned off his blade then turned to Deve and Broose.

"Do you boys need help?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 08 2018, 03:32 PM
"I called Broose for help!" Deve wined to Eamon, "But he ignored me!"

"If I told you once Deve," mumbled Broose while fighting his fighter, "I TOLD YOU TWICE! I'M BUSY!"

"That's your problem, dumbbell!" Deve yelled back.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 08 2018, 03:36 PM
"So... that's a yes, I take it?" Eamon asked as he walked closer to Deve.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 08 2018, 03:39 PM
"Why didn't ye say so in first place?! Can't ye even speak?!?" complained Deve and collapsed on his hurt leg. 
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 08 2018, 03:46 PM
Seeing that someone was flanking him, the enforcer fighting Deve suddenly kicked his opponent's leg, right where it was injured. He then pivoted to face Eamon.

"Just in time!" he sneered at the newcomer, "Yer next!"

With that he swung at Eamon's shoulder.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 08 2018, 03:51 PM
Not expecting the attack so quickly, the enforcer cut into Eamon's shoulder, which happened to be his dominant arm. He quickly attempted a counterattack, though his injury seemed to affect his fighting.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 08 2018, 04:05 PM
The enforcer easily defended Eamon's now feeble attempts, the battle now turning in his favor. Pressing his advantage, the Corbaine goon began to drive the other man toward the railing with the intent of cornering him or knocking him off the ship entirely.

But his success in the battle so far had given the enforcer a sense of overconfidence. After knocking aside Eamon's defense, he attempted to do a lunging stab into the young pirate, hoping to run him through completely. Much to his surprise, Eamon nimbly dodged aside, bringing the flat of his blade around and swatting the back of the enforcer's head.

Between his forward momentum and the dizzying impact to his noggin, the goon suddenly found his overconfidence, and his regular confidence, completely evaporate, as he went tumbling over the ledge and into the water below.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 08 2018, 04:41 PM
Eamon looked over the side of the ship and smiled, before examining his wound. He then looked back towards the others.

"You good, Broose?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 08 2018, 04:55 PM
"I'm still busy here!" again Broose shouted, "But if you want to join and help me defeat this buffoon that'll be great!"

Deve sighed in relieve and rubbed his leg to calm the pain down.

"Thanks for ye help. Me appreciated." Deve smiled. Though his pain was starting to lighten up a little, he would still have some walking problems.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 08 2018, 05:19 PM
Just then, Jeff approached the group, is falchion sheathed at his side.

"What's going on here? Why are ya all standin' around! We need to get outta here!" he snapped.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 08 2018, 05:25 PM
"Yes sir!" Eamon said as he grabbed the remaining Corbaine enforcer from the back of his shirt and threw him over the railing into the bay.

"Good work everyone!" Finnbarr applauded as he patted Deve on the shoulder, "Where to now, Jeff?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 08 2018, 05:33 PM
"Anywhere but here!" Jeff barked, "Drop the sails! Get that anchor raised! Move it!"

Unfortunately, most of the crew had quit and left, meaning the ones remaining had to work twice as hard.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 08 2018, 05:50 PM
"Get up, Deve." groaned Broose as he made his way to the net latter, "We have to drop the sails."

"What?!" shrieked Deve and got up to his feet, "But we just arrived at port! Why sail away?!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 08 2018, 06:05 PM
"Oh... I don't know..." Jeff trailed-off.

***

Meanwhile, down on the dock...

"Hmm..."

"Yep..."

Two dockworkers stared at a pair of twitching legs sticking out of the barrel of fish.

"Wonder who that is..."

"He has nice shoes..."

***

"Maybe... just maybe... BECAUSE WE JUST ANGERED ONE OF THE MOST POWERFUL PIRATE FAMILIES IN ALL OF EASTPORT!" Jeff exploded, "NOW GET US OUT OF HERE!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 08 2018, 06:29 PM
The Brightside Seaside Tavern, approximately thirty miles north of Eastport...

"Now remember, we're to recruit enough crewmen to get us to Hanichu then get out quickly. No time for socialismizing." Jeff instructed his crew as they stepped into the rickety establishment that was coated in pealing yellow paint.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 08 2018, 06:58 PM
"Definitely not!" Finnbarr agreed as they entered the tavern. He then promptly found his way to a table of men playing Chindarry, joined in the game, and would most likely be enveloped in the game for the next few hours.

Meanwhile, Eamon made his way to the bar and ordered a drink. He shut his eyes for a moment, for the pain in his shoulder was feeling more prominent than before.

"What did you do?!" Said a familiar voice from behind him.

"You're not supposed to be here!" He confronted the woman, a few years younger than himself. Her red hair was held back in a loose braid, while her blue eyes seemed to see right through him.

"You're avoiding the question. Let me look at your arm."

"My arm his fine." he said firmly as he turned back to his drink.

"You know I can help..."

"That doesn't mean you should."

***

At a table on the other side of the tavern sat a lone man, with his back to the newcomers.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 08 2018, 07:29 PM
"Ah. Finally, we get a break from that stinkin-boat!" granted Deve, "Eh Broose?"

"Do excuse me for a lifetime, I'm getting a drink." stated Broose as he walked to the counter.

"Fine." replied Deve as he went, "Wait...I need a drink too!"

He darted toward the counter where Broose was at and didn't stop till he crashed behind him which made them both fell back and landed on Deve to the floor while his bottle of rum got shattered to pieces.

"DEVE!" Broose shouted, "WHAT DID I TELL YOU?!?"

"Get-off-me!" Deve wheezed for air.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 08 2018, 07:51 PM
This left Captain Jeff all alone in the doorway.

"If I didn't need an entire crew, I'd just leave ya all here." he grumbled to the thin air in front of him.

With that, he went to find a table to set up a recruitment roster.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 08 2018, 07:59 PM
"Are these your friends?" The woman asked as she looked at Deve and Broose on the ground, only a few feet from her. "You should introduce us!"

"No."

"Hi fellas!" She said as she approached the men on the floor, "My name's Arlyss! I'm Eamon's sister."

***

The lone man remained seated... alone.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 08 2018, 08:14 PM
Both grounded pirates looked up to the woman she introduced to them.

"Oh! Good goldfish!" Broose startled and got off of Deve and took his hat off to his chest, but had his one foot on Deve's stomach, "Pleasures all yours ma'am! I'm Broose."

"Broose! Your still on me!" Deve gasped trying to get Broose's attention.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 09 2018, 11:48 AM
Meanwhile, Jeff grabbed a table, rolled out a scroll to serve as his crew roster, then put a jar of ink and a quill pen beside it.

"Ahem, anyone interested in joining the crew of the Flying Mollusk, please sign up here!" he declared to the room.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 09 2018, 03:38 PM
"Oh please..." Eamon sighed as he rolled his eyes.

"Hi Broose!" Arlyss said as she grabbed his hand and shook it excitedly. She then turned to the man on the floor. "And you are?"

***

The lone figure at the other side of the room still remained seated... alone. A long overcoat was draped over his shoulder, while a cap was tilted slightly downward toward his face. He took a swig of the drink in front of him, though still seeming to be indifferent to the situation around him...

"Forget this! I'll be sitting here all day!"

Oh... never mind. The lone figure stood up and approached the table where Jeff was seated.

"You said this was the Flying Mollusk?" he asked.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 09 2018, 08:00 PM
"Aye, that it is. She's the fine ship ya'll see anchored off-shore just outside. Ya have some sailin' experience, friend?" Jeff tried to be the best sailsman he could be.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 10 2018, 07:42 PM
The man stopped and thought for a moment.

"Nope!" He finally replied.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 10 2018, 09:36 PM
Jeff held a cheesy, very forced smile on his face for several awkward, silent seconds, before he finally spoke again.

"No problem, we offer on-the-job training! Just sign your name here!" he pointed to the roster.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 11 2018, 11:59 AM
"Really? That's nice; the last ship I worked on required at least two years experience!" The man said as he signed his name.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 11 2018, 12:08 PM
"Heh heh, not to worry." Jeff nervously responded, "Most of my crew don't act like they have any experience anyway..."

As he said that, he leaned over the roster to glance at the name written on it.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 11 2018, 12:35 PM
Before he had a chance to look the man extended his hand, "The name's Vyn. Expert of whatever you need an expert of!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 11 2018, 01:13 PM
"Oh good... do ya think ya could be an expert at finding me more crewmen?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 11 2018, 09:01 PM
"In-need of...help!" Deve struggled trying to get Broose's foot off of him.

"Oh that's Deve." Broose introduced to Arlyss not caring about Deve. Even when Deve was still trying to his foot off, "Don't worry about him. He's fine."

"AY! What gives?!" Deve snorted and was ticked from Broose response.

He pulled out his sword and poked Broose at the butt.

"YEAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAH!" Broose screamed as he jumped up into the ceiling and fell back down on Deve again with his whole body and made his eyes grow big and tongue stick out.

">GASP!< CAN'T-BREATH-AGAIN!" Deve gasped for air and poked Broose again.

"YEAAOW!" Broose jumped forward and crashed on Eamon onto the counter.

"Finally! Me can breath!" Deve said in relief and got up slowly to face Arlyss, "No need for him to say no more! Deve is me name."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 12 2018, 01:49 PM
"It's a pleasure to meet you." Arlyss smiled at Deve

"NO IT IS NOT!" Eamon grunted as he pushed Broose back towards Deve. He brushed himself off then looked back to Arlyss, "What are you doing here? Does Dad know you're this far south?"

"Of course he does! Probably... I'm sure... I guess I don't know." She thought.

"You're avoiding the question."

"I'm avoiding one of your questions! I did answer the other one."

"You're too much like dad..." Eamon sighed.

***

"Why would you need more crewmen? I'm all you need!" Vyn smiled as he patted the captain on the shoulder and walked towards the bar.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 12 2018, 02:32 PM
"Well at least we know that you're both sibling of each other." replied Broose who laid on Deve again.

"BROOSE?!" Deve snapped at Broose's ear, "I thought you told me of crashing or laying on you! But look at you! YOU'RE SQUESSHING ME!"

"So? What else is new?" Broose chuckled.

"I hate you." Deve frowned trying to get his sword again, but no luck this time.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 12 2018, 02:55 PM
Jeff was left alone at his table again.

"..."

"..."

"Why do I always get the idiots?" he muttered, before sitting back down.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 12 2018, 03:04 PM
"Hi Dad!" Arlyss waved to the approaching man. Eamon looked up and sighed.

"Hey kids! I knew I'd find you here!" Vyn winked.

"See?" Arlyss nudged her brother, "I told you he knew where I was!"

"Oh, before I forget, I gotta do some recruiting!" Vyn smiled as he put his hands in his pockets... the right in the left and the left in the right. "Arlyss, go sign up for the crew."

"What? No!" Eamon said as he finally faced his father, "Why on earth would you let your daughter join a pirate crew?!"

"She's going to join anyway, so I might as well remain the good guy!"

"Love you Dad!" Arlyss said as she approached the table Jeff was at.

"Might as well hire the whole family!" She said as she immediately signed her name, "Well, not the whole family... I haven't even met most of them!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 12 2018, 03:27 PM
"..."

Jeff watched Arlyss sign her name, recalling the age-old adage that it is bad luck to have a woman onboard your pirate ship. Then he recalled the fact that he did not have a woman on board when he lost his haul of fish to the Lances.

Nor did he have a woman onboard when a traitorous passenger stole his father's priceless heirloom, cut the sails ropes during the night, then paddled away on the ship's best lifeboat to complete his escape.

Nor did he have a woman onboard when his ship ran aground on that one island with all the creepy, smiling spearmen, during which time he lost half his crew to the locals, a quarter to jungle predators, an eighth to malnutrition, and a sixteenth to bad map-reading.

Nor did he have a woman onboard when he accidentally sank that Cerulean treasure ship that happened to be carrying the king's prized art collection that was being moved from display in The Royal City to the king's private retreat in Ultramarina, making him the most wanted man in the entire Kingdom of Cerulea.

Nor did he have a woman onboard when his late first mate insulted the admiral of the Veridian Navy, prompting the entire Imperial Fleet to chase him to Corsai and back.

Nor did he have a woman onboard when he bought the ship in the first place, only after which did he realize the financing was way more than he could afford and he'd have to turn to dishonest means to actually be able to pay this ship off, something it had taken him nearly thirty years of transporting, privateering, pirating, smuggling, swashbuckling, and fishing to actually accomplish.

"Miss..." he spoke-up, outstretching both his hands to shake hers, a tear forming in his eye, "Thank you. Thank you so very much."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 12 2018, 07:38 PM
"OH! I just remembered!" Broose realized and got up to his feet, "I was here for a drink! Bartender! Give me another bottle of rum!"

Deve groaned while slowly getting up with his now broken back. The cracking bones sounded aloud till he got up and adjusted himself to his normal shape.

"That's it!" he growed quietly, "You have squished me for the last time!"

He drew out his sword and slashed Broose's second bottle in half. Broose turned his slowly at Deve with an annoyed angry look.

"WHY YOU LITTLE JERK!" he roared and drew his sword back at Deve, "ON GAURD!"

The two crazy-pirates fought at an empty spot in the tavern which made nearly everyone got their attention toward them. The fight took one minute till Broose punched Deve to the table and made it flip halfway up, then slammed back down. Only one halfling was at the table enjoying his drink and not caring of the fight till Deve crashed in. Then the halfling looked at him and to Broose.

"Can't you fight somewhere else you bloody idoits!" he snapped at them before he noticed their faces, "Wha-? Deve? Broose?! Why bust my fingernails! It's been two long since we've last seen each other.
Where've you been?"

"Tucker?" Deve looked at the semi-over weighted halfling with half sideburns, "It is you Tucker!"

Broose looked at the crowd and drew in his sword since he doesn't want more attention to them.

"Carry on what you're doing!" he spoke out, "Fight's done! Sorry about that Tucker. Didn't realize you were here. Or...are here. Right now. What's up?"

"Ah ya know, enjoying my drink is what's up." answered Tucker, "As well as cleaning rubbish on streets, loading cargo to ships, and always, always ran into fights. Like from you guys for instance."

"Oh that?!" Broose looked at Deve with the mess near the table, "It's-just an accident that's all!"

"You started it." mumbled Deve and got up.

"Well no matter." added Tucker, "It always happens in my life. So, what's up with you two besides fighting?"

"Well you see," began Broose, "our captain is hiring some crewman. While we are here to have a drink. Right Deve?"

"What? Oh yes! Yes. That's right." startled Deve, "That is, if you're up for sailing. Are ye?"

"Ya mean that captain?" Tucker pointed toward Jeff with Arlyss.

"Yes that's him." replied Deve.

"Well my life here was and still is same old boring...stuff." said Tucker after he got off his chair, "Since I've been meaning to get away from cleaning rubbish all the time, so why not have me join in?"

"Yeah, you need a break alright." agreed Broose after he noticed how Tucker smelled like rubbish.

"Glad you agree. Now I'll just walk over there and sign. Oh and by the way...YOU TWO STAY OUT OF FIGHTING!"

Broose and Deve looked at each other with puzzled looks.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 16 2018, 06:27 PM
"No problem! ...I think." Arylss said as she took Jeff's hands and shook them.

***

"Who was that?" Eamon asked as he watched the halfling walk away.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 16 2018, 08:07 PM
"That's Tucker." replied Broose after he and Deve walked up to the counter, "We first met him fifteen years ago where we used to load cargo to ships with him."

"And that was before we were hired to go sailing with Captain Jeff few years later." added Deve.

                                                                      ***

Just after Arylss shook Jeff's hands, Tucker walked up to the table they were at for crew hiring.

"Ya looking for some crewmembers?" he spoke.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 16 2018, 10:05 PM
"Aye! Sign right here, mate." Jeff quickly shook himself back into reality, "Welcome to the crew!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 18 2018, 03:08 PM
"Hey, Jeff..." Finnbarr whispered as he came behind the captain, "Ya think we could maybe... leave soon? I seemed to have bet a little too much on the last game... and they're expecting me to pay them."

"...Isn't that how betting works?" Arlyss asked as she put her hands on her hips.

"Wha... no! Of course it's not!" Finnbarr scoffed as he turned back to Jeff and whispered quiter, "She's probably one of them! We need to leave!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 18 2018, 03:30 PM
"I've only hired three crewmen, Finnbarr." Jeff responded, "Ya wanna try sailing all the way to Hanichu with a crew of only twelve?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 18 2018, 04:43 PM
"We can hire some more in Hanichu!"

"Have you tried false advertising? That's an effective way to recruit!" Arlyss suggested.

***

"Old friends are the best friends," Vyn said as he put one arm around Deve, and the other around Broose. "Unless your new friends are the best, then your old friends are just old. But if your new friends are older than your old friends, then they aren't necessarily better than the old ones. Unless your old friends abandon you for your new friends; then you just need to forget the whole friend thing all together."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 18 2018, 05:39 PM
"Who told you that?" asked Deve looking at Vyn.

"He must've made it up. Just now." answered Broose, "Uh sir...you can let us go now."

                                                                        ***

"Funny you should say that." agreed Tucker after he signed his name, "Wait...how is it effective? Oh never mind! Just follow their statement."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 18 2018, 06:03 PM
"How am I supposed to falsely advertise when all I'm--" Jeff began to retort.

Just then, the door of the tavern burst open and a young lad rushed in.

"Cap'n Jeff! Cap'n Jeff! Where be Cap'n Jeff?" he belted, looking around desperately for the dwarven captain, eventually finding him tucked in a corner in the back of the establishment, "Cap'n Jeff!"

"Whoa! Calm down, boy!" Jeff urged.

"Actually, it's Roy, sir." the lad corrected.

"Cut that out! What is it ya want!?" Jeff snapped, "Spit it out!"

"Ship approaching, cap'n! It be flyin' Corbaine colors!" Roy sputtered, "Cook and Duncan sent me to warn ye, sir!"

"WELL WHY THE DEVIL DIDN'T YA SAY SO IN THE FIRST PLACE!?!" the captain roared, flipping the table in a sudden fit of rage, "ALL HANDS! BACK TO THE SHIP!!!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 18 2018, 06:10 PM
"Yes, yes! Let's go!" Finnbarr sputtered as he ran out the door. Arlyss and Eamon followed, but as they approached the door they stopped, looked at each other, then looked back at the bar where Vyn was still standing. They turned around, grabbed him by the arms, and rushed him out of the building.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 18 2018, 06:23 PM
"You heard him Broose! BACK TO THEE SHIP!" ordered Deve to Broose and slapped his back which him made spit out his rum he was drinking and ran outside.

"AGAIN WITH MESSING UP MY DRI-" Broose began to growl and paused a second, "-wait...WAIT FOR ME!"

And he ran out to the door. Tucker headed out to the ship as well since he was now part of Captain Jeff's crew.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 18 2018, 06:52 PM
As captain and crew came charging out of the tavern, a large pirate vessel flying a flag emblazoned with the Corbaine Family crest was closing in on the Flying Mollusk. Because there weren't any docks large enough for a large ship to moor at, the Mollusk was anchored offshore, meaning the crew had to row out to it.

"G'day mates!" the burly cook waved as the rowboats were raised up onto the ship, "Already took the liberty of raising the anchor, but I'm not climbing up that mast."

"Fine work, Cook." Jeff stated, before turning the the rest of the men, "What're ya all standin' around for!? DROP THOSE SAILS! THE CORBAINES ARE ALMOST ON TOP OF US!"

Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 22 2018, 03:30 PM
"Yes, yes, hop to it men!" Finnbarr agreed as he ran to go hide below deck. Eamon nodded and began climbing the mast, though his sister soon passed him and began untying the sails.

"Dropping them seems rather counterproductive..." Melvyn pondered aloud, "Perhaps if we released them,  we would gain speed and avoid a potentially fatal encounter."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 23 2018, 07:29 AM
"Don't get technicalogical with me, Mr. Vyn!" Jeff spat, "I'll have ya know--"

A black arrow suddenly whizzed right between the two men and hit the door to the captain's cabin beyond.

"--that we need to GET OUTTA HERE! Grab me mah stool!"

He rushed to the helm and waited for someone to fetch his stool so he could actually see where he was steering.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 23 2018, 08:22 AM
"Aye! And so we must!" agreed Tucker looking at the enemy ship and did not notice he was standing on the captain's stool, "Where is yo stool?"

"Got it!" Deve quickly grabbed the stool that Tucker was on.

"WAH! OAF! HEY! WHAT'S THE BIG IDEA?!"

"Your stool Cap!" Deve said and placed it next to Jeff. 
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 23 2018, 09:29 AM
"Ah, thank ya Deve." Jeff smiled as he stepped onto the stool, "..."

"..."

"Well, why'ya still standing there!? Go help with the sails! We can't hope to fight 'em off if they catch us!"

With that, he threw the helm to the left and pulled the Mollusk away from the shore toward the open bay. The Corbaine ship was drawing in rapidly now, the crew of pirate enforcers standing on the deck ready to board.

"Someone get on that ballista! Try to slow them down... or something!" Jeff barked, pointing at the deck mounted ballista.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 23 2018, 01:00 PM
"Yes, someone get to the ballista!" A muffled yell came from below deck.

"I would, but I detest violence." Melvyn said as he pulled out of his pocket what appeared to be an oddly shaped metal compass. "But then again... my kids have no issues with it. ARLYSS! COME DOWN HERE AND DO SOMETHING VIOLENT!"

"WHAT?!" she yelled back from the mast. Melvyn then pointed to the ballista.

"Ooh... SURE! I'LL BE RIGHT DOWN!" She grabbed one of the ropes from the sails and swung herself down to the top deck, "So captain, shall I aim for the helmsman, the captain... OR I could send a flaming arrow to their sails!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 23 2018, 01:22 PM
"Aye, the sails! Aim for the sails!" Jeff agreed, "Anything to distract and slow 'em down!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 24 2018, 06:56 AM
"Aye, aye, I will do that..." Arlyss saluted as she untied a scarf that was around her neck, tied it around a ballista arrow, and set it on fire. She aimed and then released the arrow. "Fire," she smiled as the arrow flew towards the sails.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 24 2018, 09:46 AM
The heavy bolt tore through one of the sails before getting stuck halfway through another, soon setting it ablaze. This drew the attention of some of the Corbaine sailors, but their archers remained at the front of the ship firing arrows at the Mollusk. However, as the flames began to spread, it granted Jeff's crew the chance they needed.

"Off ta open waters we gooo!" Jeff belted-out.

Catching a gust of wind, the Mollusk began to gain speed, slowly pulling away from the now slowing Corbaine vessel. Soon enough, their pursuers were fading into the distance, as they simply could not maintain the speed to keep up.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 24 2018, 09:57 AM
"HA HA! We won!" cheered Broose as he made his way down from the sails, "We outwitted thee Corbaines!"

"We did?" exclaimed Tucker trying to look above the back railing, "I can't see!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 24 2018, 10:06 AM
Arlyss lifted Tucker so he could see.

"They'll be back eventually, "Eamon said as he passed Broose.

"Good work everyone!" Finnbarr said as he climbed up the steps to the main deck, "I couldn't have done better myself!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 26 2018, 06:14 AM
"Aye..." Jeff nodded, a slight smile on his face, "Good work, lads."

The view panned out as the crew cheered at their success, the Flying Mollusk now making its way out into the open bay the sunset beyond...
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 26 2018, 07:13 AM
High noon, the next day...

There had been a few rain showers that night, but the following day proved to be wrought with sunshine, without a cloud in the sky. By midday, the ship was well into the middle of Starlight Bay, with no shore visible in any direction.

With the Corbaines also left far, far behind, Captain Jeff felt now was the time to get his crew properly acquainted with their new ship and duties. Thus, he called all hands on deck so that he could address them.

"Alright, roll call time. I want to make sure we're all here and know our role." Jeff barked, "Ahem, Mr. Finnbarr, the roster please?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 26 2018, 04:05 PM
"Yes sir, the roster!" Finnbarr said as he pulled out a small book from his belt, "It has downsized... a little."

"The whole book?" Eamon asked as he raised an eyebrow.

"Don't question me methods!" Finnbarr snapped as he opened the book, "Luetmert Luetenberger! ...Well, we know he's here somewhere," he said as he put a check by the name.

"Captain Jeff!"

Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 26 2018, 04:07 PM
Jeff just slowly turned his head and gave Finnbarr a sidelong glare.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 26 2018, 04:13 PM
"You Jeff, are the captain!" Finnbarr continued, having not looked up to see Jeff's expression. "Your duties are to captain the ship, pay for the ship, pay the crewmen's salaries, pay our debtors, pay our not-so-friendly debtors, and pay for whatever else needs paying for. Next is... Mr. Cook!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 26 2018, 04:17 PM
"Right 'ere mate!" Cook proclaimed in response.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 26 2018, 04:18 PM
"Yes Mr. Cook, your responsibilities include the following: cooking." He crossed off the name, "Next is Mr. Broose!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 26 2018, 04:22 PM
"Aye! It is I! Broose Barns!" Broose called out.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 26 2018, 05:44 PM
"Yes, and I'm sure you do something..." Finnbarr muttered as he wrote in his book,"and Mr. Deve?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Nov 26 2018, 06:25 PM
"Deve Crackle, actually." corrected Deve, "Me used to be on crows nest...till the storm blew me off. Plus, Me released the sails. As usual."

"Me too!" protested Broose.

"You were at the crows nest?"

"NOO! RELEASE THE SAILS PART! Duh?"

"Right." Deve snickered, "Ya right."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 26 2018, 06:34 PM
"Yes... I'll just put you both down as sailors." Finnbarr trailed off, "Mr. Duncan!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 26 2018, 06:36 PM
"A-a-aye, a-a-aye!" Duncan stuttered.

Something wasn't quite right with the man since he'd nearly drown the previous day...
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 26 2018, 06:53 PM
"Hm... looks like that leaves the new recruits." He was about to speak, but then he glanced at his book again to see if the next entries were correct, "Jeff? Why do three of them have the same name?"

"There are three of us named Melvyn?" Melvyn asked as he looked around excitedly.

Eamon and Arlyss both facepalmed, though Arlyss was also suppressing laughter.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 26 2018, 07:44 PM
"Why the devil are you asking me!? I didn't write their names down!" Jeff snapped.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Dec 06 2018, 06:07 PM
"Sorry Jeff, I forgot... you just pay them," Finnbarr trailed off, "Next up... Who's this Tucker fellow?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Dec 06 2018, 06:18 PM
"That would be me!" popped up Tucker, "Tucker Green. I used to clean to rubbish and load cargo."

"We know Tucker. You told us that." said Broose.

"To you two yes. To them? Nah!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Dec 06 2018, 06:58 PM
"...Yes, well I suppose the ship could be tidied up a little." Finnbar said as he made a note in his book, "Mr. Killroy, son of Mr. Gillroy, son of Mr. Millroy, son of Mr. Billroy."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Dec 06 2018, 07:09 PM
"AYE AYE SIR!" the youngest crew-member snapped to attention.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Dec 06 2018, 07:11 PM
"He's still here, Jeff." Finnbarr whispered as he leaned towards the captain.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Dec 06 2018, 07:18 PM
"Oh, he is? Good for him." Jeff grumbled, "Alright you lot! Get to your stations! We sail for Hanichu!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Dec 06 2018, 07:23 PM
The sailors all went about the regular work, while Finnbarr walked closer to the captain.

"So... Hanichu?" He asked, expecting some sort of explanation.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Dec 06 2018, 07:35 PM
"It's our only choice left." Jeff sighed, "The Veridians will impale me, the Ceruleans will hang me, the Alizarians will behead me, and the Corbaines... best not think about what they'll do to me! There's nowhere else for me to go!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Dec 06 2018, 07:47 PM
"Let's just be positive! I hear they are quite competitive with their hog races in Hanichu!" Finnbarr replied, "That might be an enjoyable way to earn a few coins! And if we get them mad, they might not kill us as violently as the previously mentioned parties..."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Dec 07 2018, 07:08 AM
"Never tempt fate, Mr. Finnbarr." Jeff pointed a finger at his first mate.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Dec 29 2018, 08:30 PM
"I'm not tempting fate; you're tempting fate!" Finnbarr yelled back, "It wasn't my idea to go to die in Hanichu!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Dec 29 2018, 08:53 PM
"We're not gonna die in Hanichu! Think positive, Mr. Finnbarr! Think positive! For example, I heard they have quite competitive hog races in Hanichu!" Jeff roared.

***

Meanwhile, down on the deck...

"Crikey, they're at it again!" Cook shook his head, "This is why I took the cooking job, so I wouldn't 'ave to be up here listening to these blokes."

Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 06 2019, 06:17 PM
"I don't know, it's kinda fun to watch them fight!" Arlyss smiled, "Kinda wish I could join them."

"That's the most exciting thing you're going to see," Eamon sighed, "It's just fishing from this point on."

"My boy, if fishing was the only thing in our future, I would not be here!" Melvyn said joyfully as he began tying off a rope into a knot. And then another knot. And another...
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 06 2019, 06:24 PM
"Bah." Cook grumbled, heading toward the door below deck.

"Mista Cook, sir." the cabin boy spoke-up, "Can I be stayin' up here to meet the new crew?"

"Suit yourself. But be down in time to help me with suppa."

"Thank ye, sir!" the lad saluted, then turned to face the newcomers, "Hello, me name is Killroy, but ye can call me Kill or Roy, if ye like."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jan 06 2019, 07:00 PM
"Kill?" Tucker spoke up, "Sounds cruel. But Roy is better. You can call me Tucker."

"Me called him Roy too!" protested Deve, "Why repeat after Me called him?"

Broose facepalmed.

"Deve." he growled softly, "Everyone in this crew called him Roy. Or Kill."

"Me know that! But that's no excuse to repeat or-how do ye say thee word? Copy! That thee word! Copy! He copied thee name after me!"

"He did not you dumbbell!" Broose growled again, "You just wanted to accuse someone!"

"Have Me now?" Deve faced to Broose, "Well what do ye want me to do? Accuse you of copying the name after me? Or trim off ye beard?"

Broose frowned at Deve.

"WHHAAAAAAAAAAAH! DOH!" Deve yelled after Broose threw him off the ship and splashed into the sea.

"Sorry about that lads." Broose apologized while brushing his hands, "He's just a little crazy when he thinks everyone is copying any word or name after him."

"Uh-huh." Tucker grunted.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 06 2019, 07:08 PM
"Um... if ye say both say so." Killroy stammered, "M-maybe I should be goin' below decks after all."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 06 2019, 07:30 PM
"Where's your sense of adventure, young Roy!" Melvyn said as he put his arm around the youth, "When I was your age, the least of my worries was being thrown off a boat! You know why? Because I lived inland!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 06 2019, 07:31 PM
"Now why would ye do that?" Killroy asked, "The sea is the place to be!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 06 2019, 07:42 PM
"Yes, the sea is an exciting place! I didn't see it though, until I was a little older than you," Melvyn remembered. "And what an adventure that turned out to be! Not only on the sea, but once I traveled down through Acrylia."

His voice then changed and became more somber, "That age has died though. What remains of that journey is now but a shadow in the land's history."

Eamon stopped suddenly and looked at Melvyn, "Something's happened?"

Melvyn nodded, "It's over."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 06 2019, 07:43 PM
"What be over?" Killroy asked.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 06 2019, 07:48 PM
"The rule of Tarek Izabran, true emperor of Veridia, and a friend of mine..."

"That's why you're here." Eamon said.

"Well, I never was any good at fishing." Melvyn chuckled.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 06 2019, 07:52 PM
"Wait, yer friends with the emperor!?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jan 06 2019, 07:54 PM
"What emperor? I wasn't paying attention." Broose asked.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 06 2019, 07:59 PM
"Yes, I knew him," Melvyn answered, "I was there when he began his conquest to retake Veridia. I was there when he found the shards. I was there when the war began. I'm sorry to say I wasn't there for the end, for I would have fought with him till the end."

"So, it is the end?" Arlyss asked.

"He's gone."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jan 06 2019, 08:04 PM
"How can you tell?" Broose scratched his head.

"And how do we know if he's gone?" added Tucker.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 06 2019, 08:31 PM
Melvyn stared at the two.

"You are honestly the first people to actually question that!" he said in astonishment.

"So what now?" Arlyss asked, completely ignoring Broose and Tucker, "Cerulea will rise in power till none in Acrylia will stand a chance!"

"Not if I have anything to say about it!" Eamon declared, "Cerulea will burn in the fires they themselves lit!"

"That's... not a plan. I was thinking you were going to have a plan," Arlyss said. "Please tell me your plan is not a metaphor."

"The plan, is to go to Hanichu!" Melvyn said in an upbeat voice, as he headed to go below deck, "I hear they have some pretty competitive hog races!"

"Dad, we've talked about your gambling!" Arlyss called to him as he went down the stairs.

"Yes, and it was a good talk!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 07 2019, 06:06 AM
"So he's sayin' his solution to the Ceruleans taking over Acrylia is to flee to Noverth?" Killroy scratched his head, "I guess that works..."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 07 2019, 02:57 PM
"Wait a minute, I just got to Acrylia!" Arlyss said, "And I'm already heading back to Noverth? Well this isn't going according to plan."

"And what plan is that?" Eamon asked his sister suspiciously.

"Just a lead, but it was a good one," Arlyss sighed, "And now I'm heading in the completely wrong direction."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jan 07 2019, 08:08 PM
"Why not ask the captain? He'll answer the reason." insisted Tucker.

"HEY! SOMEBODY HELP ME!" cried a voice which the crew can tell it was Deve since he's still on the ocean, "ARE YE LISTAING?! PULL ME BACK UP!"

"Aw come now, Deve!" called out Broose as he leaned on the starboard, "The water's fun!"

"Then why are ye up there when I'm down here?!"

"Why ask? You needed swimming lessons!"

"SHUT UP YE TINWIT! Now, pull me back up or Me tell the CAPTAIN! ME A MAN OVER BOARD!!" Deve shouted to the captain the top of his lungs.

"SSSSHH! Quiet Deve!" hissed Broose, "You don't want me to get in-TROUBLLLLLEEEEE!"

>SPLASH<

Broose leaned forward too much, he accidently fell into the ocean.

"Oh great. Now I'm a man over board!" he splattered water out of his face.

"Welcome to the party!" greeted Deve.

"Errrrgh! HEY YOU LAZY CREWMEN! HELP US!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 08 2019, 05:45 AM
"Sooo... w-what was that lead ye spoke of?" Killroy asked Arlyss, shifting awkwardly in his attempt to address a woman (he hasn't seen very many before).
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 12 2019, 03:21 PM
"One of my colleagues in the Department found out that someone I've been looking for was working on a ship near Eastport," Arlyss explained, "So I put in a transfer request so I could find them, and here I am... Going the wrong way."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 12 2019, 04:12 PM
"The Department, what would that be?" Killroy questioned.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 14 2019, 02:19 PM
"Oh, I'm sorry honey, I thought everyone knew what the department was," She began.

"Arlyss..." Eamon groaned.

At that moment Luetenberger came up from below deck, with a body draped over his shoulder. He casually walked up to the main deck, and approached the captain.

"Cap'm Jeff? Whut do you do you want me to do with him?" He asked.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 14 2019, 04:52 PM
"Oh, shut up Luetenberger, can't ya see I'm arguin' with..." Jeff roared, then did a double-take, "EY! Why's that Corbaine man still on my ship!?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 14 2019, 07:25 PM
"A what? Where?" Luetenberger said as he looked around.

"Get rid of it!" Finnbarr yelled as he darted behind Jeff, "Throw it in the water!"

"Throw what?"

"Th..the Corbaine guard!"

"Oh... alright. I guess I go find him." Luetenberger said as he dropped the man on the deck, "Oh Corbaine? Where aaaare you?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 15 2019, 06:37 AM
"Ya should have just told him to jump in the water himself." Jeff signed.

Meanwhile, the Corbaine guy happened to land in a bucket of deck-swabbing water, which splashed all over his face as a result of his fall, and subsequently woke him up. The man quickly grabbed the nearest thing, which happened to be the mop, and swashed it around like a sword.

"En guarde ye bloomin' onions!" the enforcer proclaimed as he blindly flailed the mop around, "Ey... where are...?"

He finally managed to clear his eyes out and look around, realizing they were well out at sea with none of his comrades in sight.

"Eyah... parlay?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 15 2019, 03:24 PM
Finnbarr grabbed Jeff's sleeve and whispered quickly, "What's a parlay, Jeff? Is that something we're supposed to know?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 16 2019, 06:42 AM
"Sounds like one of them infernal Alizarian dishes." Jeff agreed, "Even if we had some, I wouldn't give him any."

He then stepped up the railing, realized he was too short for the railing, ordered Finnbarr to bring him his stool, then stood on that and looked over the railing.

"Yar request for parlay is denied, ya scotch-drinkin' cretin!" Jeff roared, "However, I do grant ya audience with the captain tuh plead yar case for mercy!"

The Corbaine man stood there a moment, blinking in confusion.

"Is that all ya have to say for yarself!?" Jeff boomed.

"Ah! No sar!" the enforcer gulped, "Seein' as we look... pretty far out tuh sea, and seein' as a man like me ain't keen on takin' a swim in these waters, and even further seein' as ya crew looks a bit... sparse... Perhaps ya may be considering me services in exchange for me life?"

"Now see here, I happen tuh be very comfortable with mah crew as it is!" Jeff barked.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jan 23 2019, 07:36 PM
Meanwhile, Deve and Broose were still arguing and kept yelling to the crew to help them, but it appears that the crew couldn't here them, or perhaps their ignoring them.

"ARN'T YE LISTENING?!" yelled Deve still in the ocean with Broose trying to keep their heads above the water, "PULL ME AND HE UP! WHAT THEE MATTER WITH YE!"

"You keep yelling all day then the crew will never help us." groaned Broose.

"Well excuse me for having ME IN THE OCEAN IN THEE FWOIST PLACE!!"

"Like I said, water's fun." Broose chuckled slightly.

"I think it be best if we make sail." suggested Tucker kinda trying to ignore the two silly pirates.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 23 2019, 07:40 PM
Jeff thought about it a moment.

"On second thought, welcome tuh the crew, son!"

He then turned toward Finnbarr.

"Mr. Finnbarr, how long do ya estimate until we arrive in Hanichu?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 23 2019, 07:45 PM
"How am I supposed to know!" Finnbarr yelled as he threw his arms into the air, "Maybe, if we hadn't accidentally thrown Mr. Crenshaw overboard last week, we might not be in this situation!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 23 2019, 07:47 PM
"WHAT!? I thought you were tha' navigator! Ya mean to tell me it was Crenshaw this whole time and ya've been takin' credit for his duties and lyin' tuh me!?" Jeff exploded.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 23 2019, 07:51 PM
"I'm the first-mate! I supervise and take credit for what the entire crew does! It's my job!" Finnbarr snapped back.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 23 2019, 07:57 PM
"So uh, what ye be wantin' me tuh do, captain?" the (ex-)corbaine enforcer called up.

"Eh?" Jeff looked back down at the lower deck, "Oh, uh... take the crow's nest and let me know if ya see land ahead or somethin'."

"Aye sar." the enforcer saluted, "Oh, and uh, cap'n sar, shouldn't we be movin' or somethin'?"

"Are we not?" Jeff inquired.

The ship was in fact, not moving, nor were the sails out. In fact they were just sitting calmly in the sun, literally going nowhere.

"Hm... I see. All hands, lower the sails!" Jeff bellowed.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 23 2019, 08:03 PM
"Get to it men!" Finnbarr barked as he began to descend the stairs, "Luetenberger! Get those sails!"

"But..." Luetenberger stuttered from behind a barrel, "I haven't found a Corbaine yet..."

"The sails!!" Finnbarr snapped as he began to trot around the deck.

"M-Eamon? Shouldn't we be getting them back in?" Arlyss asked as she pointed to the sailors in the water.

"Ssh! Maybe no one will notice," Eamon whispered as he began to climb the mast and release the sails.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jan 24 2019, 03:32 PM
"Aye! To your stations buccaneers! As I go t-mine!" Tucker ordered to the crew as he went off to his station. Where ever it is.

Broose and Deve noticed the sails were going down thinking that the ship will depart.

"OI! WHERE YE GOING?!" called out Deve as he began to swim to the ship, "WAIT FOR MEEE!!"

"I told you they never help after you kept yelling at them!!" Broose roared and swam after Deve.

"STOOP!! WAIT FOR MEE!! THAT'S AN ORDER! ARE YE LISTENING?!? WAIT FOOOR MEEEEE!!!" Deve continued yelling to the crew hoping they would help them. But the crew still did not pay attention to them.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 24 2019, 07:38 PM
Jeff stood proudly atop his stool as the sails unfurled, taking in the full splendor of his ship in action.

Except... the sails were limp. And so was the flag. Also the ship wasn't moving.

"Mr. Finnbarr... why aren't we moving?" Jeff testily asked his first mate.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 30 2019, 07:49 AM
"It would appear that there is no wind," Finnbarr answered, "would you like me to have the men get out and push?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 30 2019, 07:51 AM
"What? Don't be absurd, Mr. Finnbarr!" Jeff snapped, "Order them to stand in front of the sails and blow instead!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 30 2019, 07:56 AM
"...you heard him you lazy, good for nothing sailors!" Finnbarr barked, "Put your lungs into it!"

"I actually didn't hear what he said," Arlyss whispered to Killroy, "What are we supposed to do?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 30 2019, 09:00 AM
"Well, it be a good thing I listen attentively to everythin' the captain and first mate say!" Killroy bragged, "He's orderin' us to get up there and blow into the sails!"

Right after he said that, he realized what it was they were being told to do.

"Wait, ye be wantin' us to WHAT!?"


Meanwhile... Deve and Broose noticed something floating in the water a ways out from the boat. It looked like a person slumped atop a piece of wreckage.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jan 31 2019, 02:39 PM
"Hey Deve!" Broose called to Deve trying to forget of calling help, "I think I see something!"

"Not now, Broose!" Deve snapped back, "Can't ye see me calling to the lazy crew?!"

"I know! But I don't think they're listening."

"Then why don't YOU ORDER THE CREW TO HELP!?!?"

"Later. But look!" Broose pointed at the object floating in the water.

"Ah. A floating board. Maybe that will help me to call for help. Or, me climb to the ship. That work!" Deve suggested and swam to the object.

"Wait up, Deve!" Broose followed Deve to the object as well.

Deve arrived there first and got on out of the water to relax.

"Phew!" he sighed in relief, "Glad to be out of the-huh?!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 31 2019, 02:47 PM
There was an pale, unconscious man lying on the board. He looked half-drown, but was still breathing, barely.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jan 31 2019, 03:04 PM
"GAH!" Deve fell back into the water after he saw the man.

"What a matter, Deve?" asked Broose, "Sea leaches?"

"No!" Deve spit out water from his mouth, "There's a man lying on the board! A dead one!"

Broose got on the board and looked at the paled-man.

"He's not dead. He's still breathing!" examined Broose, "He must've been attacked somewhere and lost his ship! Quickly! Help me push him back to the ship!"

"Again with the swimming." groaned Deve but agreed to help Broose take the man back to the ship, "Now this will attract the crew's attention."

They arrived to the ship again and yelled to the crew hoping they would respond.

"OI! WE FOUND A MAN OVERBOARD! LOOK DOWN AND SEE!" called Deve!
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 31 2019, 03:11 PM
"A MAN OVERBOARD!" Jeff exclaimed.

Everyone on the crew immediately rushed the railing to looked over the side.

"Hoist 'em up, mates!" Jeff commanded, "Quickly now!"

They eventually brought the man aboard (and yes, Deve and Broose, too) and laid him out on the deck.

"Wait a minute 'ere..." Jeff reached down and unruffled a part of the man's tattered garb, revealing the emblem of the Kingdom of Cerulea.

A slight breeze had begun to blow in the meantime, and the ship was moving forward once again.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 31 2019, 04:00 PM
Melvyn came up from below decks, and looked down at the man lying before them.

"Right on schedule," he said as he looked down at his compass-like contraption. Eamon looked at him suspiciously, but said nothing.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 31 2019, 04:03 PM
"Schedule?" Killroy looked up at Melvyn in confusion.

"Mr. Finnbarr, tell me, is this man even alive?" Jeff asked his first mate.

Suddenly the man jolted awake, his arm grabbing for the closest person to him, which happened to be Arlyss, and pulling her in close.

"Where... am I...?" he wheezed.

"Belay that order, Mr. Finnbarr." Jeff concluded.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 31 2019, 04:10 PM
"Good, I still don't have an answer," Finnbarr said as he rubbed his chin.

Arlyss looked at the emblem on the man's clothing, then at his face, "Like me, you're going the wrong direction. I say we start a revolt."

Eamon hid his face in his hands. Was he laughing? Or crying? Or just double facepalming? We'll never know...
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 31 2019, 04:19 PM
The man looked around wildly, but all he saw were pirates.

"Please... You... You have to help... me..."

"Son, we can't help ya if we don't know why yar here." Jeff pointed-out.

"Why... why I'm... here..."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 31 2019, 04:19 PM
Some time ago, in the Barrier Mountains…

General Kyrus and his horsemen had ridden for weeks on end, finally arriving at Mason’s Pass in the Barrier Mountains, the northernmost passage between the outer plains and the Cerulean Valley. The road leading through the pass was narrow and rough, but it would reduce the trip by weeks, if not months. Desiring to reach home as soon as possible, Kyrus and his team of knights and cavalrymen had entered the pass the previous day, but inclement weather was repeatedly slowing them down. They had endured several thunderstorms while crossing the plains, while they now faced an unseasonably significant snowfall in the mountains. Even so, they trudged ahead.

It was evening when they came across a civilian wagon stuck in a snowbank, one of it’s wheels broken and the other buried in a mound of slush. A woman sat on the wagon, rocking a blanket-wrapped baby whilst two men tried to repair the broken wheel.

“Hold.” Kyrus raised a fist to signal his riders to stop.

“Sir, this is a common bandit tactic. We should call the men to arms and ride past.” one of the knight-lieutenants suggested softly.

“Have you forgotten your oath as a knight, Sir Wilford? You would leave these poor travelers on the roadside in the midst of a snowstorm?” Kyrus inquired incredulously.

“How hard would it be to hide weapons in that bundle she’s holding, hmm? This whole thing just reeks of a trap.” Sir Wilford replied.

Just then, the bundle in the woman’s arms began to cry rather loudly, while the woman tried to shush it. The two men had noticed the approaching soldiers and stood up from what they were doing.

“Oh, thank the creator!” the older man wheezed, “I thought for sure we’d freeze out here.”

“Aye, ye lads be a sight for sore eyes.” the younger man shivered.

“Would you like to go up and inspect the lady’s bundle? Make sure she’s not hiding a greatsword in there?” Kyrus sarcastically said to Wilford, who looked away in embarrassment.

With that, Kyrus rode up closer to the wagon and dismounted his horse.

“Looks like we came across you folks at just the right time.” the general addressed them, “Men, give me a hand!”

“Oh, thank you, thank you kind sir.” the old man quivered, as he stepped aside to let Kyrus have access to the wheel.

A couple of the other riders shrugged and joined Kyrus in attempting to repair the wheel. Sir Wilford also dismounted, but not for the same reason as the others had. Something about this still seemed off to him. Passing by the men who were working on the wheel, he approached the back of the wagon, which was covered by a large tarp. While it wasn’t suspicious to cover one’s goods while on a long trip like this, the veteran knight had an odd feeling about this.

“Wilford, get over here and help lift!” Kyrus barked.

“Coming, General.” Wilford replied, but he had no intention of coming until he had taken a peek under the tarp.

As he lifted the tarp, he found himself staring at a… wardrobe. And a kitchen table. And a dresser. In fact, the wagon appeared to be loaded with nothing more than household furniture and travel provisions. It seemed he was just being paranoid after all.

“Wilford!”

The knight signed, starting to release the tarp, before something caught his eye. There was a faint shadow of what appeared to be dark, frozen liquid that had been trickling out of the wardrobe. He hesitated a moment, then reached in and drew open the door. The last thing he saw was half a human face.

“GENERAARRGG!!” the knight tried to shout in warning, before an arrow suddenly shredded through his throat, causing him to slump forward into the back of the cart.

The old and young man promptly drew out long, thin daggers, the old man immediately shoving his into a weak point in the armor of the knight next to him. The younger man lunged at Kyrus, who managed to react in time to sidestep the stab attempt, grab the back of his assailant’s head, and smash his face into the side of the wagon. As he reached for his sword, more of his men cried out as arrows came whistling in from all around them.

“Look out!” one of the knights lunged toward Kyrus and shoved him aside, taking a crossbow bolt in the face for his efforts.

Facing toward the source, Kyrus saw the woman at the front of the wagon had disposed of the bundle and was now attempting to reload the crossbow she had just fired. She didn’t succeed, as one of the horsemen charged the front of the cart and cut her down before she could. Shortly thereafter, that man himself was shot in the leg by an archer hiding in the rocks nearby, causing him to tumble from his horse to the ground. Kyrus rushed into the open and drug the man back toward the cover provided by the wagon. He quickly snapped off the back of the arrow, then prepared to get back up and go fight the bandits, as the man should be able to handle this injury on his own. But as Kyrus went to stand up, he realized the knight was not speaking, but rather gagging and gasping for air, his eyes wide and bloodshot in pain.

He was a Cerulean Knight! An arrow in the knee should not have caused this sort of reaction… unless…

Kyrus grabbed the back of arrow he had broken off and held it to his nose, a familiar acrid stench causing him to quickly wince and toss it away.

“RIDE! DON’T FIGHT, RIDE!” he roared, jumping to his feet and sprinting toward his horse.

More hostiles were rushing out from cover and charging the Ceruleans, wielding weapons of all shapes and sizes. The only benefit to their charge was they were making it harder for the archers to fire into the fray. Realizing they had likely blocked the road ahead, Kyrus knew their only hope was to go back the way they came.

“Back to the west! Ride back to the--” he cried as he tried to mount his horse, only for a sudden sharp pain his back to halt both speech and movement.

“NOOO!”

“General Kyrus!”

One of the riders rushed over and caught the General as he began to stumble backward, hurriedly dragging him toward the cart. But Kyrus knew it was already too late.

“Protect the general!” one of the knights bellowed, as the surviving men tried to hold the assault back.

“No… leave me!” he shook his head, looking up at the man who was helping him, “They’re using Ravager arrows.”

“Ravagers? What? How?! We’re nowhere near Ravager territory!” the young cavalryman exclaimed.

Kyrus grabbed the man’s arm, an intense look in his eye.

“These are not Ravagers!”

Still clutching the rider’s arm, Kyrus grabbed the sack that had been dangling from his belt and shoved it into the other man’s hand. He did not know the name of this young soldier, for he was one of the many replacements sent from Cerulea to replace the more experienced soldiers lost in the wars against Veridia. But he was a soldier sworn to serve his God and king, and there was no time look for anything more.

“I’m… I’m trusting you with this, son.” the general coughed, “It must…”

Kyrus could feel his lungs beginning to burn like the fires of hell itself were consuming them. All around them, the knights and soldiers were being overwhelmed by the ambushers. And over the hill before them, the doomed general could hear the unearthly growl of a certain horror he had once encountered in the distant Shoons Swamp, almost three years ago. Though that was an eternity in wartime, Kyrus still remembered that sound like it had been yesterday.

“It must never fall into their hands! Hide it! Bury it! Destroy it!” he gasped, every last ounce of energy he had he put into his words, “Just GO!!!”

The young soldier nodded and jumped to his feet, madly rushing toward his horse. The attacking archers must have seen him, for they quickly shot the horse down before he could reach it. The soldier stood in shock over the dead horse for a moment, looking up to see one of those very archers staring back at him, a smug grin across his face. But just as the archer was notching another arrow to finish the young soldier off, an odd disk-like blade came flying in from his flank, sticking into the archer’s neck at an awkward angle, and causing him to fire wildly before crumbling to the ground. Unfortunately, the young soldier had little time to search for the thrower, as the sound of an approaching horse forced him to look to his right. As it were, he turned just in time to catch the hand of one of the knights, who caught the young man and hoisted him onto his still-moving horse.

“Ride north... There is a military port on Starlight Bay... You can get a ship there to take you to the Royal City…” the knight told the soldier, “God go with you…”

“But won’t you be with…?” the soldier looked back, only to find the knight was no longer on the horse, but rather landing on the road behind, several arrows embedded in his back.

Realizing he was the only one left, the soldier set his jaw and turned his attention forward again. On he rode, the toxic projectiles hurled by the attackers falling short as the charger carried him off into the distance.

Kyrus listened the sound of hooves grew increasingly faint, while the war cries of the attackers gradually went silent as well. The general smiled slightly, figuring the young man must have escaped, at least for now. Ultimately, whether the horseman succeeded in his task or not was out of Kyrus’s hands, for his part to play in this world had ended. Instead he just gazed into the sky, where the sun was beginning to faintly crack through the clouds, illuminating the world below and casting a beam of warmth over the battlefield. As he drew his last breath, the general retained a contented smile upon his face. He would have thought being denied the chance to see his wife and daughter again would anger him, but he knew better now. He knew he would never miss a part of their lives ever again...
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 31 2019, 07:33 PM
"Is that it?" Finnbarr blurted, "So you jumped on a board and started floating your troubles away into Starlight Bay?"

"That was so sad..." Luetenberger sobbed as he grabbed the man and gave him a giant hug.

Eamon meanwhile, was scanning the man for any sign of the bag he had mentioned.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 31 2019, 07:41 PM
"No... no... you don't understand..." the man gasped, weakly forcing himself free of Luetenberger, "They followed me!"

He weakly reached into his shirt, pulling out the bag Eamon was looking for, and holding it up for someone to take.

"You mustn't let them... can't let them get it... can't... please..."

The young soldiers eyes rolled back into his head as his body went limp.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jan 31 2019, 07:48 PM
"Get what?" Tucker asked before the soldier laid down on the floor and died.

"He died? And this is supposed to be a kids story!" Deve remarked...wait what?!

"Uh Deve," Broose spoke up, "there's nothing we can do to help him."

"What's in that bag?" Tucker remarked.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 31 2019, 07:57 PM
"Nothing that concerns you," Melvyn said as he grabbed the bag and tucked it under his arm, "Now when are we arriving in Hanichu, Captain Jeff, sir!"

After a moment, Arlyss removed her hand which she hand been holding to the man's chest. She kept her head hung low, not as much for morning, but as much for failure, which she began to feel weigh heavily on her shoulders. Eamon grabbed her arm and stood her up.

"He was practically gone when we pulled him up," he whispered, "There's nothing you could have done."

"There's always something," Arlyss replied as she hurried down below deck.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Feb 01 2019, 07:17 AM
"I don't know that!" Jeff roared, "If Mr. Finnbarr had not deceived me when it came to the status of our navigator, perhaps we would have a way of knowing! As it is, I have no idea how long until we reach Hanichu!"


"What that be about?" Killroy asked Eamon once Arlyss was gone.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Feb 07 2019, 02:02 PM
"So ye're telling us we going the wong way?" asked Deve in confusion.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Feb 07 2019, 05:38 PM
"Of course we're not going the wrong way!" Finnbarr scolded, "We're not going ANY way since the ship isn't moving! I told Jeff we needed a back-up plan; like oars, for instance! If we had oars, we wouldn't be in this predicament!"

***

"Listen kid," Eamon said as he put his hand on Killroy's shoulder, "She doesn't understand just because you can do something, doesn't mean that's the right thing for you to do. You need to look out for yourself first, and other people later. Otherwise you're going to die fighting for something you don't even care about. Choose your battles wisely, cause they could always be your last."

"But you're a smart lad," he continued as he smiled, "I think you have a feel for these things better than most folks in this world."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Feb 07 2019, 06:15 PM
Just then, the wind picked up and blew Finnbarr's hat off.

"Thar she blows!" Jeff laughed, "All hands, to yar stations!"

***

"Aye?" Killroy looked torn between a little confused and grateful at the same time.

Just then, Captain Jeff began barking orders, forcing Killroy to get back to work... with whatever he was doing.

***

As all this was going on, the former Corbaine enforcer, had noticed Melvyn slip away from the group what he rightly figured to be the deceased emperor's gauntlet. He might have questioned why nobody seemed to care, but then, he knew the reputation of Captain Jeff and his crews. If everyone else conveniently forgot the importance of the artifact, leaving in the hands of one man, it would be all the easier to take it for himself.

"Oi! Fancypants!" Jeff barked from the aftcastle above.

"Ey?"

"Stop standin' around gawking, get to work!"

"Aye cap'n!" the former enforcer turned to head to the crows nest.

"Oi, fancypants!"

"...Ey...?"

"What's ya name?"

"Gideon McCleary, cap'n!"

"Well, Gidean McCleary, get back to work and stop standin' around gawkin'!"

"But, ye just... I mean, aye-aye!" the former enforcer saluted, then went off to perform his duties.

"Well, Mr. Finnbarr, I think we'll be makin' good time to Hanichu after all. Once we figure out which way it is..." Jeff remarked.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Feb 26 2019, 10:22 AM
At the shipping docks near Jerando that evening...

It was dusk at the local harbor dock near the kingdom of Jerando. Some local fishermen were unloading cargo and fish off of their boat after their arrival. One of them sat down to take a break after carrying heavy nets of fish to the cart. Then he saw something floating in the water a little ways away.

"Hm? What's this?" he wondered and got up to get a closer look at the floating object which appears to be a man lying down on a rusty life boat, "Oi lads! There's a man floating the water!"

The other crewmen hurried over to see the boat as well as it got a little closer from the waves.

"Something doesn't seem right." the second fisherman replied, "That boat looks beaten."

"Quickly men! Bring him to shore!" the leader fisherman ordered as they hurried to get on one of the lifeboats that were hooked on the dock.

After they towed the beaten boat to shore, they pulled the man out of the boat and laid him on the dock. The man was barely breathing with his face slightly pale. He was in his late fifties and a little overweight with a light-black colored mustache and beard and wearing a wet turban.

"Where did he come from?" the leader asked.

"I saw him floating out nowhere!" the one fisherman told him.

"He looks like he's from Alizaria." the second man studied.

Then suddenly, the man woke up and gasped for air.

"Where-where am I?" he panted heavily and looked at the fishermen.

"You're at the kingdom of Jerando." the leader answered, "You alright?"

"I'm fine. But...I'm afraid the world won't!"

The fishermen towed the Alizarian with their horses pulling the cart towards the castle of Jerando to tell their King, about the bad news. They helped him walk up to the main door to the palace and met the two guards.

"We must speak to the King!" the one fisherman called to the guards, "He must know the news!"

"Let them in." the one guard ordered to the other as they both opened the doors and let them in, "Follow me."

The guard led the four men to the King's throne at the same time when King Kolo and his wife, Queen Ruby, and his son, Prince Carder walked in from the royal dining room and did not expect to see them enter in.

"Your highness!" the Guard bowed down to the King along with the other men.

"Greetings fine fishermen." greeted King Kolo to the fishermen, "What brings you here at this time?"

"Well your highness," the leader fisherman rose up, "this man has urgent news to tell you!"

"Yes." the Alizarian replied, "And it may be bad for everyone!"

***Thirty minutes later...***
 
The Alizarian told King Kolo and his family about the death of Emperor Tarek and the shards that were on the loose.

"That's not good!" the King exclaimed, "I had that feeling that the shards will be taken to the wrong hands! But how do you know this Mister Wondu?"

"Well your majesty," began Wondu, "I've known him for over twenty years after we first met. After he became emperor, I left Veridia a week later to go home, but I had a feeling that he might lose his empire if he starts off wars. I then decided to return to Veridia incase he needs help. But along the way, I encountered a battlefield of defeated Veridian soldiers! I realized, I was too late. There were dead bodies all over the field, not a single soldier of his survived! I sneeked to an area to see Tarek die."

"Hm. I see. But who took the shards?" King Kolo asked.

"There were two Cerulean soldiers I saw after his death and took his Gauntlet which holds the shards." continued Wondu, "The Ceruleans once took over Veridia before and killed his family. He gathered all five shards to take revenge against the Cerulean-supported Republic and to restore the Veridian Empire. But now, he's gone. And the soldiers might use the shards to control the world! So I ran away where no one can see me. I had to find someone to help me bring the Gauntlet and...I don't know what to do after that!"

"Father." Prince Carder spoke up, "I thought you said the Shards of Losh was just a story."

"Yes I did, but the story I told you...was real." King Kolo said, "Thought it might concern you."

"We heard of these shards years ago before you were born." Queen Ruby added, "Who ever takes the shards, uses the power to control the elements of storms."

"Hold on a minute!" one of the fishermen interrupted to Wondu, "These shards you say have powers that anyone can use them as weapons or magic tricks?!"

"Yes." replied Wondu, "They will be unstoppable if anyone tries to mess with them."

"We're doomed." squeaked the other fisherman and fainted to the floor.

"Get a hold of yourself, Reckens!" the leader fisherman lifted the man back up, "Just because someone has the shards doesn't mean we're doomed yet. Are we?"

"I propose," announed King Kolo, "that we must go after these men and deal with the shards afterwards. No one will use them for power or anything!"

"I agree." Prince Carder spoke up, "I must go after them!"

"Son, it's dangerous for you to go out there. I must go."

"But father, you must look after your kingdom incase something bad might happen. And besides, I won't be king yet till I turn twenty-one next spring."

"I understand. But we can't afford to lose you. You are our only son."

"I saved you and our kingdom from an evil wizard from destroying it. And helped your men fight against a dragon before he'll burn our kingdom to the ground. I must do it for you and Mom again, cause I can't lose you too. I can take care of myself. Please."

King Kolo was a wise king knowing what's right for him, his family, and his people. Both he and Queen Ruby were worried, but they agreed to let him do it.

"Very well then." he said wisely, "But you must have some men to assist you." then he turned to Wondu, "Can you look after my son?"

"Yes." replied Wondu proudly, "I'll do everthing I can."

"I will send you to Hanichu where you will have a ship for your journey tomorrow."

"We can take them to our ship." assisted the one fisherman, "The harbor is closer there."

"Uh, Chumble?" the Leader broke in, "Our boat is not big enough for the Prince. And besides, it's a small harbor for any big ship to fit in."

"Oh. Right." the fisherman understood.

"You must be careful finding those shards." Queen Ruby told her son, "I wish you luck."

"I'll be careful, Mom. I promise." Prince Carder said bravely. Then he thought of someone in his mind who can help him as well.

"I must speak to the priest in town of what to do with the shards." King Kolo told to the guard who will fetch him his horse, "Also, I must find some of my best men to look after my son as well."

"I know one who can help." Prince Carder spoke up.

It was dark when King Kolo and Prince Carder rode their horses to go to a church in a village which was next to the castle. Along the way, they stopped to a house that they know who lives there.

"Are you sure you want him to join? He's retired you know." the King asked.

"You've known him well." the Prince got off his horse, "He's an honorable man. And served you well in the army. I'm sure he will help."

"Very well then. I'll be back after I spoke to the priest." King Kolo said and galloped away.
Prince Carder walked to the house and knocked the door.

"Isn't it late for any wonder-walker to be out when it's near bedtime?" called a voice inside the house.

"Not late to meet an old freind who served my father." responded the Prince.

Then the door opened and popped out was a man in his sixties and was surprised to see the Prince.

"Harvey Spear."

"Prince Carder!" the man greeted in delight and bowed down, "What an honor to see-"

"No need to bow to me, Harvey." Prince Carder chuckled, "I'm not king yet."

"Oh sorry! I just got used to bow to your father years ago. Would you like to come in?"

"Thank you."

"What can I do for you?" assisted Harvey.

Prince Carder told Harvey about the fall of Veridia Empire and the Cerulean soldiers took the shards with them. Harvey heard about the shards too. Though he didn't know about powerful artifacts and other legend stuff, but he was concerned.

"A fallen Emperor who lost the shards!" exclaimed Harvey, "I had no idea that would happen."

"Neither did I, nor my father." added the Prince, "The Ceruleans took over his kingdom before since they had been an enemy to the Emperor. So I came here for your help to assist me and find the shards. My father will give us the answer of what to do once we find them."

"I see. They must be destroyed so no one will use them for power!" suggested Harvey.

"Well we'll see about that later." replied Prince Carder, "But in the meantime, are you willing to help me find those shards so no else will take them? I know you retired after serving my father's army, but this time is a quest incase those Ceruleans will take over our kingdom."

"Well, since I served him well, I shall serve you." Harvey said proudly, "When shall we start?"

The Prince smiled, "Tomorrow."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Mar 02 2019, 07:46 AM
Several days (or weeks) later...

"LAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAND-HO!"

"At last." Jeff gasped, "We were runnin' so dangerously low on rum, I almost had to crack open me vintage 7989 Vinum! And I was saving that for a special occasion!"

"Never mind, cap'n! It just be a giant sea turtle!"

"BAH! Mr. Finnbarr, fetch me the vintage 7989 Vinum!" Jeff growled.

Killroy was down on the lower deck, leaning against the railing.

"Are we there yeeeet...?" he moaned.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 02 2019, 08:15 AM
"About the Vinum, Jeff..." Finnbarr hesitated as he rubbed the back of his neck, "Do you remember that one time when we were in debt to the Earl of Prehlin, and you wanted me to distract him while we robbed his treasury to pay him back?"

***

"What a beautiful morning to be arriving in Hanichu!" Melvyn said cheerfully as he came up from below deck and stretched his arms.

"Dad, did you shave?" Arlyss gasped, as Melvyn's longer beard was reduced to a short stubble.

"Uh-oh, someone must know a girl in Hanichu," Eamon teased.

"Don't be ridiculous!" Melvyn said, "But I will be seeing an old friend, and it doesn't hurt to make one's self a bit more recognizable."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Mar 02 2019, 08:23 AM
Jeff turned and glared daggers at Finnbarr.

"Mr. Finnbarr, you didn't use my vintage 7989 Vinum on the EARL OF PREHLIN, did you!?"

***

"Oh, ye have a friend that lives in Hanichu?" Killroy inquired.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 02 2019, 08:29 AM
"Well it depends you you define the word 'used'..." Finnbarr stuttered, "Luetenberger was hiding, but then he sneezed... and I needed knock the Earl out with something..."

***

"Oh heaven's no!" Melvyn laughed, "He just happens to be heading there right now! It'll be like a family reunion! Well, except that half the family is dead. Unless ole Pavel is still alive..."

Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Mar 02 2019, 09:13 AM
"Deve? Deve!?" Broose called looking for Deve till he found him sleeping on the floor with a pale over his head, "Yo Deve," Broose lifted the pale, "Breaks over!" and dropped it on Deve's face.

"YEAOW!" cried Deve and got up, "Can't ye see me trying ta sleep?!"

"It's past your time to get up! Look! It's morning!" corrected Broose.

"Very lovely." muttered Deve and laid back down to the floor, "Good night."

"Good morning lads." approached Tucker and accidently stepped Deve stomach.

"OW!" yelled Deve again and made Tucker fell to the floor, "OI! Watch where ye're stepping!"

"Deve. Ya know you're not suppose to sleep on floors where people can step on you." retorted Tucker and got up, "Have ya not notice it's morning?"

"Same answer as his!" Deve snapped, "I can sleep where ever I want so, GOOD NIGHT!"

Broose and Tucker looked at each other and chuckled.

"To your stations, Deve!" Broose ordered using Jeff's toned voice.

Deve immediately got up to his feet, "AYE-AYE SIR!" he startled and saluted facing the actually Captain the not knowing it was Broose who ordered him.

"Heh-heh-heh!" Broose snickered quietly.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Mar 02 2019, 09:37 AM
Jeff's jaw very, very, very slowly dropped.

Also his hand began to reach for his sword, but then another cry came down from the crow's nest.

"LAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAAHCK ACCCKK... *cough* *cough*... ugh... ugh-heh... ahem... Ho!"

Everyone looked up to see the port of Hanichu looming on the horizon, the white and red banners of the city's flag fluttering atop the square, multi-level towers and turrets. Ships of all shapes and sizes were coming and going, and in the distance, beyond, rolled the golden hills of the southern steppes.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 02 2019, 09:51 AM
"Oh look, ships!" Finnbarr said he approached the railing pointing toward the port.

***

"Excellent! We're right on schedule!" Melvyn said as he looked down at his compass.

"Well at least some of us are..." Arlyss mumbled to herself.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Mar 02 2019, 10:02 AM
"Make ready to weigh anchor!!!" Jeff bellowed, having already forgotten about killing Finnbarr, "Prepare to douse the sails!"

***

The ship drew into port and anchored itself, then Jeff selected a shore party consisting of himself, Finnbarr, Deve, Broose and Luetenberger and Duncan. The rest of crew was told to wait on the ship until signaled to come ashore.

"Alright, lads... first to the market to secure provisions, then to the tavern to get a drink and look for work." Jeff declared, "How many of yas have been to Hanichu before?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Mar 02 2019, 12:01 PM
Deve and Broose blinked and looked each other... "Not me!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 02 2019, 12:04 PM
"What's a Hanichu?" Luetenberger asked, thoroughly confused by the question.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Mar 02 2019, 12:13 PM
"..."

"Never mind! We'll just figure it out as we go!" Jeff grumbled, "Does anybody see a sign that could tell us where the market be?"

Duncan wordlessly pointed at a signpost that directly behind Jeff.

"Eh?" the captain turned around, "What? Well, by thunder! Why would they go putting a signpost there! Especially that high! How's a man to see it!? BAH!"

He then motioned for them to follow him as they headed down the street and took a left at the next block. Here they came across the marketplace, where dozens of men and women were busy selling their wares, everything from iron bars to sweet rolls.

"Alright, lads. We be in need of fresh food supplies, and probably some more weapons for our new crewmembers. Duncan, see about getting us some fresh water for the trip."

Duncan went wide-eyed and tried to stutter a retort, but Jeff had already moved on.

"Broose, Deve, we need more swords. Find a weaponsmith and secure some new blades for us."

He then looked at Finnbarr and Luetenberger.

"That leaves us to secure sailing supplies and provisions."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 02 2019, 12:44 PM
"Yes, of course," Finnbarr said as his attention was drawn to a nearby tavern, "Right after a quick game of chindarry..."

***

"Okay, time to go," Melvyn said as he closed his compass.

"What do you mean, go?" Arlyss asked, "We're supposed to stay on the ship!"

"If you want to stay on the ship you can," Melvyn said as he walked onto the plank leading to the dock.

"I'm not staying here! Are you crazy!" Arylss called after him as she ran to catch up.

"Now I have to protect Hanichu," Eamon sighed as he stood up and sheathed the sword he'd been cleaning.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Mar 02 2019, 12:57 PM
"Oi! The cap'n said nobody else was tuh be goin' ashore 'till they gave the signal!" Killroy protested as everyone else was leaving the ship.

"Well, are you just gonna let them go off like that, mate?" Cook, who had emerged from the galley to get some fresh air, inquired.

"I don't know. What should I do?"

"Run off after 'em." Cook urged, "Keep 'em outta trouble. Do it for the cap'n."

"Aye aye, sir!" Killroy saluted, then ran off after them.

"Why'd ye send the kid after them." Gideon asked.

"Oh, he doesn't go ashore much. Figured it'd be good for the lad to get off the ship every once in a while." Cook shrugged.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 04 2019, 07:43 PM
Melvyn waltzed down the docks, casting nods and smiles towards many people they passed; whether he knew them or not was anyone’s guess. Eamon figured they didn’t, though his sister was much more trusting of Melvyn’s antics. As they were just leaving the harbor, Arlyss glanced to the side and stopped, staring toward one of the ships.

“It can’t be…” she whispered to herself as she branched off from the others, and approached the ship. She climbed aboard and looked around, though it seemed that the crew was either all on shore, or below decks.

“Hello everyone, I’m taking over the ship!” Arlyss laughed as she stood on deck and took a bow. She lingered above deck for a moment, before descending the stairs to go below. The ship, while looking descent above deck, was a miserable mess in the lower levels. Empty bottles lay on the floor, with the stench of moldy food and spilled alcohol (among other things) filling the dark cargo hold. She brushed aside her cape, and placed her hand on one of her short swords, as a chill had suddenly filled her bones. She paused and closed her eyes; she could hear the creaking boards and the sound of the water hitting the walls of the ship. She took a deep breath in, then quickly opened her eyes and smiled.

“Fight now, talk later?”

As she spoke a figure jumped out from behind a crate and swung a large blade. Arlyss dodged and drew her two short swords, both etched with Valskaenen motifs from hilt to tip. She blocked a second blow, then advanced forward a few steps with several well delivered, though easily blocked strikes.

“What clan are you?” the figure asked angrily, revealing that it was a woman.

“Pyroda,” Arlyss replied, “But I already know which you are, Rojavik.”

With that the figure attacked again, with more vengeance and less precision than before. Their blades clashed, and the two where in a dead heat. At one point, Arlyss broke free, and the two were separated for a moment.

“You’re the daughter of Marliea Andota,” the figure said as the two circled round one another, “The rojavik who let the Valskaena fall!”

“The rojavik who tried to unite the clans,” Arlyss corrected, “They didn’t unite then; but we can now!”

“And where are our mothers? Both of them are dead. And unless you want to join them, you should stay hiding.”

“Are you satisfied with hiding?” Arlyss asked, lowering her blades, “As long as our people are banished from their homes and fleeing from their homeland, I will not hide. As long as the last stones are hunted down, with our people being slaughtered to find their location, I will not hide. My father died protecting our people. My mother died protecting the stone. I do not fear joining them, if I die with the same honor they did.”

“Great speech.” the woman scoffed, “I assume you’ve found found Savecta?”

“...well no.”

“Or have you found what Ephren and Tuhnar did with the other stones?”

“I haven’t gotten that far yet.”

“So this is step one in your plan?”

Arlyss thought for a moment, “Pretty much.”

“It’s going to need more work than that.” the woman said as she lunged again with her blade. Arlyss spinned out of the way, swing her sword to the back of her attacker. The woman was fast, and turned her blade quickly to deflect. After a moment more of clashing, the swords were caught in a gridlock.

“Why should I help you?” the woman sneered, “Where was your mother when Mysl fell!”

“Where was yours before it did?” Arlyss asked, “Your mother thought she could fight her battles by ignoring them. Are you going to make that same mistake?”

“That battle is over for me; I care nothing for the rojaviks or the Valskaenans!”

“What rojavik doesn’t love a fight?” Arlyss smiled, “You can’t tell me this hasn’t been fun!”

“Optimistic, for a loser,” the woman said as she pushed Arlyss forward, sending her crashing into a stack of barrels. As she was about to stand up, one that was higher fell and hit her on the head. The last thing Arlyss remembered was the sight of a shadow fade into the darkness.

***

“What are we looking for again?” Eamon asked as he caught up to Melvyn.

“We’re not looking for anything!” Melvyn replied, “What we seek will come to us! Though if we happen upon a hog race in the meantime, the wait might be more enjoyable.”

Eamon sighed, “And here I thought we’d be doing something interesting.”
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Mar 04 2019, 07:48 PM
"Hey! Wait up!" Killroy came charging in behind the two men.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 05 2019, 05:00 PM
Melvyn looked back, "Glad you could join us Mr. Roy! Time to get your feet wet in the finer points of gambling!"

"We could really teach him more useful things..." Eamon suggested.

"Nonsense!" Melvyn disagreed, "When in a short-on-coin-predicament, it is much better to steal money from in front of a man's back, rather than behind it! And I should know; I've tried both!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Mar 06 2019, 05:46 AM
"Really?" Killroy's eyes glistened a little at what Melvyn said, "Mr. Vyn, ye don't s'ppose ye could teach me both ways, do ye?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 24 2019, 02:30 PM
"Well of course, Mr. Roy!" Melvyn smiled, "I'd like to have a eager, young pupil under my wing again!"

"Maybe we should teach him the finer points swordsmanship," Eamon disagreed, "So that when the inevitable happens, he won't end up like your last eager, young pupil."

"Don't be silly! You turned out fine!"

Eamon paused, then looked at Roy, "We're going to teach you how to fight before he gets you into one."

"Teach quickly, cause here we go!" Melvyn said as he waltzed into a nearby tavern.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Mar 25 2019, 08:39 AM
Killroy eagerly followed.

"So, where do we be startin'?" he asked once they were indoors.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 31 2019, 10:14 AM
Eamon sighed and followed, "I thought we were here to meet someone..."

Melvyn walked up to a table and quickly joined into a game of chindarry. He motioned for Killroy to come look at his cards, and he began to explain the game.

"Chindarry is a marvelous game played with cards, dice, and a boatload of chance! First everyone must put an initial bet into the center of the table, then the dealer rolls the 4 dice. The goal of the game is to get a chindarry, or to have thee cards and two dice of the same number."

The other players at the table scowled at him for turning their game into a lecture subject, but he seemed like an easy target, so they ignored him... for the time being.

"Next, you place down a card that's the same number as one of the dice, then, you get to re-roll that dice. The next player does the same thing, unless they don't have or don't want to reroll the dice, and then they have to take the card just put down."

One of the players at the table, one sitting next to Melvyn, placed a card down rolled one of dice. Melvyn took the discarded card, and lay his hand down on the table.

"Chindarry! See Mr. Roy? Its that simple!" He then reached for the pot.

"Hey! Who do you think you are?" One of the players yelled at him, "No one wins that quickly! Not unless they're cheating!"

"What? Me cheat?" Melvyn replied innocently before turning back to Killroy, "Like I said, there's a lot of chance involved in the game."

"I bet he's a wizard!" Another player chimed in as he stood up and drew his sword.

Melvyn burst out laughing, "Oh heavens no! I defeated a wizard once, but that hardly makes one..."

"You won't take my money wizard!" Yet another player yelled as he charged at Melvyn. Eamon met him first and after deflecting his blow, pushed him to the ground. Two of the other players also began to attack him, while Melvyn scooted to the side and checked his compass. "Oh dear, we're going to be late."

***

Arlyss awoke a few minutes later in the cargo hold. Her head was throbbing slightly, though otherwise she didn't seem to be hurt. After brushing herself off she looked around the room, but after finding nothing she went above deck. The sun blinded her for a moment, but after adjusting to the light she saw two crewmen with swords drawn staring at her.

"Hault! Why are you on our ship!" The one to the left demanded.

"Sorry, I was just looking for someone." Arlyss replied calmly, though she wasn't interested in sticking around to talk to these blokes for long.

"Avast! I think this one's a woman!" the one on the right gasped as he raised his sword higher.

Arlyss blinked for a moment then looked down at herself, "That wasn't obvious?"

"By the fish I think you're right, Ellert!" the one on the left said. "No woman has ever walked this deck before!"

"Yeah! And the captain wouldn't like it if he found out!" the other replied, "What are we going to do with it?"

"Her." Arlyss corrected, "You should have said, 'What are we going to do with her."

"Ah! It can hear us!" Ellert screamed as he jumped back a pace. "What do we do Kep!?"

"Keep calm," Kep replied, "maybe it hasn't seen us yet."

"... and I just met one of your crew members who's a woman. From what I've learned with my research, she's worked on this ship for over a year."

"It's talking to us Kep!" Ellert cried as his voice began to break up, "We should make a run for it!"

"No, we must be brave!" Kep said heroically as he raised his sword for battle, "Wait, what do you mean a woman has been working on our ship! That's impossible!"

"Don't talk to it Kep!"

"Quiet Ellert!"

"Well I couldn't see her that well..." Arlyss thought for a moment, "But she had long dark hair, and blue eyes I think. She carries a large sword, and is pretty good and fighting... but I won, of course."

"Avast! Do you think she means Crayg?" Ellert gasped yet again.

"I told you there was something fishy about him!" Kep growled.

"Her." Arlyss corrected, "I told you there was something fishy about her."

"See? She agrees!" Kep snapped, "We must find the captain and tell him! We'll be heroes for saving the ship!"

The two then ran off onto the docks.

"The ship is mine again!" Arlyss smiled as she drew one of her swords in victory.

"Thanks for getting me fired." A voice said from behind. Arlyss turned around and saw the same woman she had fought earlier sitting on one of the stairs leading to the helm.

"You're welcome." Arlyss smiled, "My captain doesn't mind having a woman aboard, you know. You could sail with us and not have to hide your gender."

"I wasn't hiding it."

"Okay then," Arlyss said as she raised her eyebrows, "Let's go."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Apr 03 2019, 08:48 AM
"Mr. Vyn, is this the point were I be stealin' all the gold from the table while they be distracted?" Killroy inquired.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Apr 04 2019, 02:27 PM
"That technically wouldn't be stealing since the money was won legitimately by myself," Melvyn replied, "but nonetheless, you should probably take it now. Then we must get a move on."

Eamon was now fighting four men, with several others sprawled on the floor slightly dazed.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Apr 04 2019, 02:33 PM
Killroy quickly gathered everything that was on the table. Except for one of the mugs of ale... which he downed himself, despite being underage in more civilized parts of the world. But he was a sailor, so... yeah, sailors learn that water is for sailin' in, not drinkin'.

"I got ih' all, Mr Vyn. Now where to?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Apr 04 2019, 03:13 PM
"Outside!" Melvyn said anticlimactically as he stepped out the door.

***

"Ah, that's better." Melvyn sighed as he took in a breath of fresh air.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Apr 04 2019, 07:05 PM
"Aye...? So uh, you said be late? What we be late to?" Killroy asked.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Apr 04 2019, 07:32 PM
"A very important meeting." Melyn answered, "And it should be happening right about... now."

"...I think."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Apr 10 2019, 07:22 PM
"MAKE WAY FOR THE PRINCE!" called a voice.

A group of familiar men on horses were galloping through town to the harbor. Other than the two guards in the group, there was Prince Carder, son of King Kolo of Jerando, Harvey Spear, foamer Captain of his king's army, and an Alizarian named Wondu who came to the kingdom about the news of the shards. They stopped a few blocks before the harbor and not far away from the tavern where Melvyn and Killroy were.

"We need to ask a captain or manager permission to sail on one of their ships, your highness." assisted Harvey after he dismounted from his horse.

"Yes we will." agreed the prince, "Me and my men will start here and continue west on each dock to see if their okay with it. You and Wondu will start at the other and continue east incase none are available. Let us know if you have someone who will sail us."

"As you wish." replied Wondu, "Before we start searching, I may need small drink and relax a bit. I'm low of water."

"Yes you may. Just be careful not to get drunk or get into a barfight. It's common nowadays." Prince Carder warned with a smile and set off for the docks to find a ship.

"Mind if I join with you?" asked Harvey, "I could use a drink as well."

"I don't see why not. It's best to have one than to dehydrate and drink the ocean." chuckled Wondu and they walked to the tavern.

They didn't notice a fight occurred in the building till Wondu stepped in and fell back out after being bumped by one of the men who were still fighting Eamon.

"What the devil is going on here?!" he spluttered and got up again as he and Harvey watched the fight, "The Prince was right about barfights!"

"I say you two!" called Harvey to the two men outside the building, "Ya notice that there's a fight goin on?" 
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Apr 11 2019, 06:56 AM
"Eh?" Killroy looked at the speaker, then at the fight in the building behind them, "Oh, aye! But we had not a thing tuh do with it! Ain't that right, Mr. Vyn?"

He gave Melvyn a wink and a nudge.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Apr 11 2019, 05:17 PM
"Of course we had something to do with it!" Melvyn disagreed, "One must never to be ashamed of his victories! Even if he decides to walk away from them unfinished... Isn't that right Wondu? Reminds me of our days in Veridia!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Apr 11 2019, 05:29 PM
"Wait...Melvyn?!" Wondu startled and slowly approached Melvyn, "Is that-you?"

"Well BUST MY BELLY! IT IS YOU MELVYN!!" he cried with joy and hugged Melvyn, "How are you doing my friend?!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Apr 11 2019, 05:36 PM
"Wonderful, Wondu!" Melvyn said, equally excited, "How are you? And your snake? Is he still with you?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Apr 11 2019, 06:14 PM
"I'm good. It's been a long time when we last saw each other. As for my snake, he died of old age, and attacked from a mongoose." Wondu replied, "But other than that, I'm good."

Harvey looked confused.

"You know this man?" he asked.

"I met him over twenty-some years ago while traveling to Veridia."

"Hm. I see."

"Melvyn, I like you to meet Harvey Spear. A former Captain of King Kolo's army."

"Pleasure."

"So tell me, what are you doing here?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Apr 11 2019, 06:18 PM
"Teaching my new apprentice!" Melvyn said proudly, "Meet young Killroy, whom I am teaching the finer arts of wealth attainment strategies!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Apr 11 2019, 06:19 PM
"Nice to make yer acquaintances." Killroy waved.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Apr 11 2019, 06:31 PM
"Apprentice? You're a Marsal arts master?" wondered Harvey.

"He said that because," whispered Wondu to Harvey, "He's a little crazy sometimes." and turned back to Melvyn, "If you're wondering why I'm here is because we have a mission to help Prince Carder."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Apr 22 2019, 04:11 PM
"Yes, well we do always seem to work with royalty, don't we Wondu!" Melvyn said as he winked. Just then Eamon was thrown through one of the windows and crashed in the middle of the group.

"That was a terrible idea..." he moaned as he held his ribs.

"And this is my adopted son, Eamon. He was Marliea's eldest," Melvyn explained, before motioning to his left, "And of course you already know Arlyss."

...Except Arlyss wasn't there.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Apr 23 2019, 09:01 AM
"Yes! I remember her when she was a baby." agreed Wondu, "How is she?"

"Good Heavens!" exclaimed Harvey, "Ya alright young lad?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Apr 24 2019, 07:11 PM
"Yeah, I'm fine sir." Eamon groaned.

"Well answer him Arlyss," Melvyn said after a moment as he turned to his left. After seeing nobody there, he turned back to Wondu, "Let me try that all again."
 
He paused, and then motioned to his left again, "...And of course, you already know Arlyss."

At that moment Arlyss came running up, followed by another woman. Compared to Arlyss she was very flabbily dressed, with loose pants, a torn up vest and an even worse looking jacket. But her raven hair seemed to sparkle in the sun, and her soft blue eyes could be compared to the endlessness of the ocean; as beautiful, but as cold and unforgiving. Her face was hard, as one who had lived years without trusting a soul. She was only a few years older than Arlyss, but she had a maturity which far surpassed her. Upon seeing the two, Eamon shuffled to his feet and clumsily brushed himself off.

"Hey guys!" Arlyss greeted the others, "What'd I miss?"

"Well Killroy started his first fight, Wondu got a job with a prince, and Eamon got thrown out a window," Melvyn explained. "So nothing much."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Apr 25 2019, 06:21 AM
"Ey? I didn't start the fight..." Killroy looked confused.

He then looked even more confused when Arlyss arrived out of nowhere, right on Melvyn's cue. Probably just a coincidence though.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on May 07 2019, 07:53 PM
Wondu slowly walked up to Arlyss, but couldn't recognize her face just because she was older than the last time he saw her. That is...when she was a baby.

"Are you...Arlyss?" he asked to be sure.

"Is that how you ask strangers like that?" Harvey responded.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on May 09 2019, 03:16 PM
"Oh my goodness, are you the Great Wondu?" Arlyss said as she ran up and hugged him, "I have heard so much about your heroic adventures with my father and mother! I feel like we're family!"

"You are pathetic," the woman next to her sighed.

"You are new," Melvyn added.

"You are right," she replied.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 11 2019, 10:11 AM
"Ye are who?" Killroy looked at the new woman in confusion.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on May 11 2019, 10:43 AM
"Yes Arlyss." Wondu smiled, "You have grown up to be a beautiful woman, just like your mother. How have you been after all these years?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on May 16 2019, 05:32 PM
"Why thank you," Arlyss blushed, "You're such a charming fella; I bet my mother thought the world of you!"

"We won't mention the boiling water incident," Melvyn winked as he nudged Wondu.

"The what?" Arlyss asked.

"There she is!" Cried a voice several buildings away, "That's the woman who deceived you Captain!"

"Are you sure Kep?" Another voice replied, "That looks a lot like a boy to me!"

"Not that one Ellert!" Kep snapped, "The one with the mustache!"

"Shut up you both!" A voice boomed. Behind the two men emerged a middle aged with a long white beard.
 He was dressed in dark red garb, and wore a black tricorn on his head. Though he was still a fair distance away, he stared at the group intently.

"Time to go," Melvyn said as he began to slowly back away.

"Get them!" The captain finally yelled, as a band of more than two dozen of his crewmen charged towards the group.

"Now would be good," Melvyn said as he motioned the others to follow him.

"We can fight!" Arlyss said as she turned to face the pirates, though Eamon and the other woman grabbed both her arms and pulled her as they ran after Melvyn.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 16 2019, 05:43 PM
"Is this part of the lesson too, Mr. Vyn?" Killroy asked as he took off running alongside them.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on May 16 2019, 06:14 PM
"I say now!" Harvey spoke up, "Where are you all going?"

Both Harvey and Wondu turned their heads to see a band of pirates charging towards them.

"I don't think they're here to join the reunion for fun." Wondu replied as he slowly walked backwards before he started to run, "INTO THE BAR!" he grabbed Harvey and ran into the bar incase if the pirates were not after them.

"Why are we here when we could be running with them?!" snapped Harvey, "They could come after us!"

"Few reasons," began Wondu, "First, they may not be after us! Second, if they are, they won't run around in bars like this especially with people drinking in here! And third-I'm thirsty!"

"Well-that proves my point."

"It does?"

"Yes. Because I'm thirsty too."

"Oh...so it does. Alright, we'll just have a drink for a bit and then we'll run away with the group."

"Agreed-wait what?!" 
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 17 2019, 05:38 AM
Elsewhere...

"And that's why ya never leave port without a significant supply of ale!" Jeff snapped, slamming a tankard of said beverage against the table.

"But... you're a pirate, aren't you? Shouldn't you need a supply of rum?" the man he was speaking to asked.

"RUM!? I'm a DWAAAAAARF! Why would I drink rum when I have ale? Unless it's vinum, which I don't have anymore! And is also consequently why I'm drinking so much ale right now!"

"I see, sorry if I offended you, sir." the man replied.

"Yeah, well ya just did by apologizin' for offendin'. Offendin' people's not a crime, landlubber, and ya should take pride in every fragile sensibility ya shatter!"

"Ah... uh... right. Well, if it's all the same to you, I'm going to... go... somewhere else." the man stood up and walked away.

"Eh, young people these days." Jeff grumbled.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on May 17 2019, 05:49 AM
Luetenberger slowly hid the barrel of rum he had just purchased behind his back.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on May 18 2019, 11:19 AM
As for Prince Carder and his men, they tried looking for a ship to sail, but the ship were ether under repair from being damaged or perhaps some captains weren't willing to help.

"It seems to me that we ended up at a wrong day to ask someone to sail." one of the guards said.

"Nonsense!" Prince Carder protested, "It doesn't matter if we arrived at the harbor at a wrong day or time. What matters is, we have to find those shards before some evil person does!"

"Understood." the guard replied.

"So hopefully, there will be some captain who will sail us for this quest." the Prince added.

"There's another bar not far from the harbor." the other guard pointed out, "Maybe we can find a captain there."

"I don't know about that. We would end up getting drunk or get into a bar fight."

"To a prince? With all due respect your highness, but your father and his brother always go to a bar and drink what ever they want! Sometimes...almost...if we ever saw him go there. But there's a chance we can ask any captain there."

"Very well then." sighed Prince Carder as he and the two guards walked up to the bar.

They walked in the bar where there were men drinking and gathering supplies.

"ALL RISE TO THE PRINCE!" the guard announced before Prince Carder covered his mouth with his hand.

"Not at the ears! Shessh!" the Prince groaned.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 18 2019, 11:24 AM
One or two people stood up, but most remained seated.

"Price of what, buddy? We don't just stand for any prince, you know!" one of the patrons exclaimed.

Others began to laugh.

Jeff remained seated, drinking his ale, however.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on May 18 2019, 11:30 AM
Luetenberger raised his hand sheepishly, "Uh, shouldn't we kneel instead?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on May 18 2019, 03:57 PM
"Is that how you speak to the-" began the guard before being interrupted.

"Wilber." interrupted the Prince, "It's okay. Carry on with your drinks! It's what we all do!"

"Uh-what?" the guard named Wilber responded in confusion.

"Though on the other hand," Prince Carder spoke again, "I'm looking for any captain who will sail me to Veridia! They will be rewarded if they're willing to help!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 18 2019, 04:21 PM
"Veridia!? Are ye mad?? Ye'd have tuh sail through a Cerulean blockade to get there directly!" one of the sailors in the bar exclaimed.

"Or you'd have to cross thousands of miles of desert and empty plains to get there on foot!" another added.

Jeff looked up from his ale, thinking this guy must be crazy. There was no way he was going to take anyone, prince or not, all the way to Veridia. He'd literally have to pass through the territorial waters of every entity that wanted to execute him (except Alizaria) just to get there. But then, this guy did claim to be a prince...

"What's in it for the captain of the ship ya hired, son?" Jeff spoke up.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on May 19 2019, 07:52 PM
"That?! I don't know." wondered Wilber before turning to the other guard, "Nelson? What reward would we pay to a captain?"

"I don't know what would we pay for a captain!" the other guard named Nelson answered, "Your highness, what would we pay to a captain?"

"Never mind that!" snapped the Prince then turned to Jeff, "Well, my father told me that he will reward any captain to sail me on my quest by..." then he whispered quietly to Jeff's ear, "A chest of gold coins."

"What did he say?" asked Nelson to Wilber.

"Ssh!" hissed Wilber.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 19 2019, 08:17 PM
Some of the people perked up at that.

"How big of a chest of gold coins?" Jeff inquired.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on May 23 2019, 03:38 PM
"OI!" called Wilber, "Don't push the Prince like that!"

"Let me answer please." assisted Prince Carder, "Thank you. A common regular-sized chest that you see these days, but two inches taller. That is if your the one who will sail me for the quest."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 23 2019, 03:46 PM
"Heh, I could get get a common chest of gold any day for far less danger than sailing all the way Veridia!" Jeff laughed.

"Aye..." one of the other sailors, who was picking his teeth with a knife (and yet wonders why his teeth always hurt later), began, "I'll wager we could make far more if we just overpowered them fancy guards of yers right there and took ye captive. I'll wager yer father would pay a lot more than one gold chest to rescue ye."

"Heh heh, yeah." another sailor stood up.

Pretty soon, most of the sailors in the bar, totaling about twenty men, were standing up and reaching for their weapons.

"...Oops..." Jeff gulped, realizing he gave them the idea by accident, "Uh, Mr. Finnbarr... I think we better get ready to go."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on May 23 2019, 06:10 PM
"Of course you want to go!" Finnbarr slammed down his cards, "For once I've actually been winning!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 23 2019, 06:11 PM
"No I mean, we really need to-- wait, how much were you winning?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on May 23 2019, 06:14 PM
"That's the problem with you! You only care about the quantity... when it's the principle of the thing that counts!" Finnbarr snapped.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 23 2019, 06:16 PM
"Well it ain't worth stickin' our necks around here when this place is about to erupt if you're only winnin' by two stinkin' silver pieces, now is it!?" Jeff retorted, pointing an angry finger at Finnbarr.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on May 23 2019, 06:18 PM
"The principle of it is, I am only two silver pieces away from getting back everything I lost!" Finnbarr said as he stood up.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 23 2019, 06:21 PM
"Wait a minute 'ere, ya quantify winning as almost getting back what ya lost!? What sort of pirate are ya!?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on May 23 2019, 06:22 PM
"Technically I'm doing better than when we're actually doing pirating!" Finnbarr replied.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 23 2019, 06:27 PM
Jeff opened his mouth to retort, but realized he had absolutely no way to counter that.

Then he realized the entire bar had gone dead silent. And that everyone was looking at them.

"If ye gentlemen don't mind." the first sailor growled, "We're trying to kidnap a prince here, so will ye juss' kindly keep it down?"

"Oh, right... sorry lads. Carry on." Jeff meekly answered.

"Thank ye." the sailor nodded, then he and all his mates turned back toward Carder, "Right, YAAAAARRR!"

All the sailors charged Carder and his guards in an effort to kidnap them.

Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on May 23 2019, 07:29 PM
"Wait a go, your highness." groaned Wilber, "Now what?!"

"I say we fight!" roared Nelson as he drew out his sword, "Dare to kidnap the prince, then you all will have to seal with my sword!!"

"Seal?" wondered Wilber in confusion.

"I mean...then you all will have to DEAL with my sword!" repeated Nelson to the ruthless sailors, "CHARGE!" 

"WAIT! I'm the prince here, and I decide when to charge..." snapped Prince Carder as he looked all the sailors surrounding them, "...How do we charge them?"

"What do you mean how do we charge them? We charge to fight! That's how!" replied Nelson.

"But Nelson, don't you realize we're outnumbered?!" Wilber pointed out showing Nelson the sailors.

"I've gone through worst things." said Nelson.

"Ugh! Ya see what I mean about barfights! Well turns out...we're about to get into one!" complained Carder.

"Don't blame me!" protested Nelson, "That was Wilber's idea!"

"No it wasn't! It was yours!" argued Wilber, "And besides, it was the prince's idea to say about a chest of gold coins!"

"What else can I answer to that dwarf-captain?!" the Prince argued back to Wilber, "I can't answer everything to anyone in a bar...BUT I HAD TO!"

"That's your problem your highness." muttered Wilber.

"WHAAAT?!?"

                                                 ***

Back at the bar, Wondu and Harvey had their drinks for a short time.

"Ah. Much better." Harvey said, "Now, shall we go back to the docks?"

"Yes of course." agreed Wondu, "But first, we must catch up with Melvyn and the others."

"What?! But they're already gone!"

"Oh...uh that's right. Then, we go to the docks!"

And they walked out of the bar and headed back to the docks to find a ship.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on May 23 2019, 07:35 PM
"Uh, Cap'm Jeff," Luetenberger said as he tugged at his sleeve, "Are we going to help the prince?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 23 2019, 07:40 PM
"Don't be ridiculous Luetenburger! I'm not helping that prince for a mere chest of gold coins, sheesh." Jeff huffed, "Now let's be off-- wait..."

He paused, then realized the prince and his men were outnumbered nearly ten-to-one (actually closer to seven-to-one, but pirates don't major in math).

"Hey prince! How many chests are ya offering for help now?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on May 23 2019, 08:03 PM
"Do I have to answer again?" Carder rolled his eyes.

"Not when we have a lot of men in this bar!" Nelson snapped to the Jeff, "Lets fight first, then answer!"

"I think it be better if we-" began Wilber before Nelson interrupted.

"CHARGE!" Nelson shouted and began to fight to the sailors.

"NELSON!" Carder screamed, "I TOLD YOU THAT-DAH!"

A bunch of sailors charged toward the prince and Wilber and began to fight. Carder and Wilber fought back, but it was too much for them to defeat any of them.

"HEY! CAPTAIN DWARF FELLOW!" Carder yelled to Jeff, "SINCE YOU ASKED ME THE CHEST QUESTION AND GOTTEN ME IN THIS MESS...HELP ME! Or-US!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 24 2019, 06:11 AM
"Not for only one chest of coins!" Jeff yelled back, "I have a whole crew to feed!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on May 24 2019, 08:19 AM
“And Luetenberger...” Luetenberger said sadly as he hung his head.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 24 2019, 08:21 AM
"Luetenberger, you are part of the crew!" Jeff snapped.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on May 24 2019, 08:28 AM
“So I get to eat the chest of coins too?” Luetenberger replied hopefully.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 24 2019, 08:45 AM
Jeff raised a finger to respond, but couldn't think of how to explain this to Luetenberger, so he just sighed and looked back at the prince.

"Make it five gold chests and I'll save you and take you to Veridia!" he declared to Carder.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on May 24 2019, 09:29 AM
"FIVE CHESTS?!" exclaimed Carder still fighting the sailors, "WE NEVER PAID SOMEONE LIKE THAT!"

"I TOLD YOU NOT TO PUSH THE PRINCE!" shouted Wilber as he pushed one of the sailors out of the way before another one fought him.

"MY FATHER WOULD KILL ME IF WE PAID OVER FIVE! Or was it ten? Oh well, NO MORE OVER FIVE!! BUT IF THAT'S YOUR OFFER, THEN FIINE! BUT YOU'LL HAVE TO EXPLAIN TO MY FATHER AFTER THAT!! OH! ONE MORE THING! WE'LL REPAIR YOUR SHIP TOO! THAT GOOD ENOUGH?!"

"Repair his SHIP?!? AND PAY FIVE CHESTS?!?" Nelson gasped still fighting the sailors as well, "ARE YU MEAAD?!?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 24 2019, 09:36 AM
"DEAL!" Jeff agreed, drawing out his sword, "Luetenberger, now it's time to save the pri--- WAIT! Repair my ship!? Why will I need to repair my ship!?!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on May 24 2019, 09:38 AM
"I DON'T KNOW! IN FACT, I DON'T KNOW ABOUT YOUR SHIP BECAUSE I HAVEN'T SEEN IT!!" shouted Carder.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 24 2019, 09:42 AM
"OH! Well, that's a fair point! OKAY! LUETENBERGER, FINNBARR, CHARGE!!!" Jeff roared.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on May 24 2019, 10:04 AM
“Not now!” Finnbarr whined, “I’m only behind by 20 silver pieces!”
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 24 2019, 10:21 AM
"What!? But that's backward from where you were before!" Jeff groaned, "Forget the cards, we have five chests of gold to earn!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on May 24 2019, 11:08 AM
“Oh fine!” Finnbarr yelled as he drew his sword and joined Jeff.

“But... but five is less than twenty!” Luetenberger lamented as he smashed a chair over one of the pirates.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 24 2019, 11:55 AM
"What, who said anything about twenty?" Jeff questioned, right after charging into the kneecaps of one of the sailors and flipping him over his back.

Unfortunately, they were still outnumbered, and the door was blocked by several burly ruffians.

"Mr. Finnbarr, we have an immediate need for an alternative exit!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on May 25 2019, 10:38 AM
"Let's see..." Finnbarr thought, "Luetenberger! Throw something through the window!"

"Uh, okay." Luetenberger shrugged as he picked up Finnbarr.

"Wait a minute, I didn't mean tha...!"

CRASH

And through the window flew Mr. Finnbarr.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on May 25 2019, 10:44 AM
"Fine job, Luetenberger, we'll make pirate outta ya yet." Jeff patted the big man on the... hip... well he can't reach the shoulder, "Out the window ya lot!"

He motioned for Prince Carder and his men to jump out the window.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jun 14 2019, 03:50 PM
"I'M A LITTLE BUSY AT THE MOMENT!" called out Nelson still fighting some men.

But Prince Carder and Wilber managed to escape from the fighting crowd and headed towards the window.

"NELSON NOW!" the Prince ordered and jumped out through the window.

"FINE THEN!" shouted Nelson and punched the sailors out of his way and darted towards the window and jumped through out of the building, "Whew! Bar fights aren't quiet as they use to!"

"Never mind that, Nelson! We got to get going before those seagulls chase after us!" responded Carder as they ran away from the bar.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 14 2019, 04:07 PM
Jeff jumped through the window a moment later.

"Come on Luetenberger!" he snapped, just in case the big man didn't think to join them outside, "Before they catch up!"

The front door of the tavern burst open, revealing the angry mob of sailors.

"They caught up!" Jeff gulped, taking off into a sprint after the prince, "Aiy! Prince! Follow me to my ship!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jun 14 2019, 04:21 PM
"Now why didn't I think of that?!" the Prince exclaimed, "Follow the dwarf!"

"Right! Follow the-the WHAT?!" Wilber spoke aloud before seeing the short figure running towards the docks, "Since when did we not know he's a dwarf?!"

"Run first! Ask later!" Nelson zoomed by Wilber, "THEN FIGHT ANOTHER TIME!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 17 2019, 07:15 AM
Jeff led his two crewman, as well as the prince and his guards, through the dockyard, weaving around crates, jumping over rope lines, ducking under livestock (okay, only Jeff did that) and just generally avoiding various obstacles that got in their way. Finally they saw the ship on the docks ahead.

"MAKE READY TO SAIL!" the dwarven captain roared as they drew near, "DEEVE! BROOSE! DUNCAN! CABIN BOY! FANCY-PANTS! THE LOT OF YA! RAISE ANCHOR AND LOOSE THE SAILS!"

Up the boarding ramp he charged.

"MOVE IT! WE HAVE NO Time... to... waste...?"

He paused when he saw the that there was nobody on deck.

"Deeve? Broose? Duncan?" he looked around, "Boy? Short guy? Cook...? Fancy-Paints...? Morrison!?"

He walked into the middle of the deck.

"Anybody...?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jun 20 2019, 02:26 PM
"Technically it's Morrisons, since we have three of them aboard," Finnbarr explained as he pulled out the roster. "I think now would be a good time for a role call."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 20 2019, 02:32 PM
"Oh, by ALL MEANS, Mr. Finnbarr, please, start the roll call! While ya at it, why don't ya get the names of all those goons that are chasin' us!? 'Cuz they're the only ones who seem decent enough to actually SHOW UP!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jun 20 2019, 02:36 PM
"Oh, so you don't think NOW would be a good time to see if there's anyone around to SAIL THE SHIP!" Finnbarr retorted, "We can't just have you, Luetenberger and I sail the ship! You remember what happened the last time we tried that!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 20 2019, 02:40 PM
"Of course I remember the last time we tried that! The difference that time was that we weren't bein' chased by a whole tavern-full o' angry pirates!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jun 20 2019, 02:45 PM
"We were being chased by your mother!" Finnbarr snapped, "That was much worse!"

"She made good bread," Luetenberger smiled and closed his eyes.

"She hit me with a garden hoe!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 20 2019, 02:59 PM
"Don't be absurd Mr. Finnbarr! If my ma was actually intendin' to do ya damage, she'd have brought out my grandpappy's shovel! As it was, she was just tryin' tuh give ya a little scare, so you wouldn't go off loitering in her mushroom patch again!" Jeff barked.

"Uh, 'scuse me boys..."

Jeff turned to find a woman looking down from the upper deck. She had the look of a pirate, with a short, sloppy black hair spilling out from beneath a red bandana, a golden earring in each of her ears, and a harpoon slung over her back. One of her arms was exposed and heavily tattooed, with a bracer on her wrist, while the other was covered in a full sleeve. She had an unscarred, youthful face, though something about the way she looked at the men with her vibrant green eyes told them that she was far more experienced than her looks portrayed.

"I'm lookin' for the captain, any of ye be him?" she spoke again, her voice mid-toned and slightly scratchy.

"Mr. Finnbarr, is she on ya roll call list...?" Jeff turned toward his first mate.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jun 20 2019, 03:05 PM
"Oh, so NOW you want the role call?" Finnbarr said as he crossed his arms.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 20 2019, 03:09 PM
"FINNBARR! IF I SAY I WANT A ROLL CALL, YOU BEST GIVE ME A R--" Jeff boomed, turning around to fully face the half-Leprechaun, "Wait a second... Mr. Finnbarr... WHERE'S THE PRINCE!?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jun 20 2019, 03:17 PM
Several minutes earlier...

After Jeff, Finnbarr and Luetenberger had charged off, Prince Carder and his guards tried to keep up. But after weaving through the busy streets of Hanichu they fell behind and became more concerned with escaping the tavern pirates who were still chasing them. As the pirates caught up Wilber and Nelson began to fight while the prince kept looking for Jeff. Suddenly, he bumped into a figure who was running from the opposite direction.

"Oh, Prince Carder! Right on time!" The man said as four of his companions caught up with him. "If you want to make it to the ship, you'd better come with us."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jun 20 2019, 03:24 PM
"But I already made a deal with a dwarf-like Captain to ride on his-wait...how did you know who I am?" the Prince startled as he got up.

"Back off you sea bugs!" yelled Wilber to the pirates while fighting them.

"YA!" agreed Nelson, "You're barking at the wrong trees!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jun 20 2019, 03:29 PM
"That's Jeff, I'm Melvyn, and we're friends," Melvyn explained, "but we really need to get moving!"

The pirates who had been chasing Melvyn's group then came into view.

"There they are!" the captain yelled, "Get them!"

"Thinking time is over!" Eamon said as he grabbed the Prince's arm and began running down another street while the others followed him.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jun 20 2019, 03:49 PM
"WOAH!" cried the Prince as he was flying in the air while holding on Eamon's arm.

"There's too many of them!" called out Wilber, "We need to retreat!"

"A good solider never retreats from a fight!" disagreed Nelson till more pirates crowded in with their swords, "HE RUNS FROM BEING KILLED!!"

The ran away from the pirates till they saw a group of people running with the Prince!

"OI! Those people are kidnapping the Prince!" Nelson gasped to Wilber.

"HEY! Stop you thieves!" ordered Wilber as he and Nelson charged after the group while the pirates ran after them as well.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jun 20 2019, 04:34 PM
The group ran down the docks and up to the ship. Jeff seemed to to be yelling at Finnbarr.

"Wait a second... Mr. Finnbarr... WHERE'S THE PRINCE!?"

"Got him!" Melvyn declared as his group came aboard.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 20 2019, 04:44 PM
"What!? Morrison, I thought I told ya not to leave the ship!" Jeff exclaimed, the swept his finger back-and-forth across everyone who had boarded with Melvyn, "I thought I told all of ya not to leave the ship!"

"Oi, tuh be fair, sir, I was ordered tuh leave the ship." Killroy nervously stated.

"What, who ordered ya to do such a thing!?" Jeff snapped.

"Uh, Mister Cook did, sir." Killroy gulped.

"COOK! Why the devil would Cook---" Jeff paused again, "Wait, then where in blazes did Cook go!?"

Just then, the door from the lower deck opened, and up walked Cook, his arm slung over Tucker's shoulder, both of them with bottles in their hands.

"Ah, g'day cap'n!" he laughed, "I warsh juss' showin' Tuckerrrr here my... *hic* ...home brew..."



Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jun 20 2019, 05:03 PM
"Aye yes!" laughed Tucker, "And by gosh it was... *hic* ...fantastic!"

Everyone looked at the drunken sailors. Just then, two more figures came aboard the ship. The figures turned out to be Wondu and Harvey.

"Excuse me to a captain of this ship." said Harvey, "But we're looking for a ship for Prince Carder to sail across the ocean. Are you willing to assist?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 20 2019, 05:07 PM
"EH?!" Jeff turned toward Harvey and Wondu, "Uh, yeah, sure! We already have one prince, why not take another? So long as he pays!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jun 20 2019, 05:19 PM
"Pay?" asked Harvey in confusion, "Pay what?"

"By all means." replied Wondu before he and looked at the group where Prince Carder was at, "Oh there you are! Looks like we both found a-"

"Wait a minute!" Harvey interrupted, "That's the prince we were talk-GAH!"

"Hey guys! We're here!" called Broose with his arms full of a variety of weapons.

"Yeah! We got weapons that everyone needs!" added Deve with his arms full of weapons too.

"Well now! How lovely!" cheered drunken Tucker, "How did you two get so many?"

"We stole them." Deve replied. 
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 20 2019, 05:41 PM
"You did WHAT!?" Jeff went wide-eyed.

"Say, cap'n..." Killroy spoke up from the railing, as he looked out over the docks, "Did ye hire a bunch more crew while we was out?"

Jeff rushed to the railing, to find a band of pirates charging in from the north, a gang of angry sailors racing toward them from the east, and a small army of city guards sallying forth from the west.

"RAISE THOSE BLOOOODY SAILS!!!!!" Jeff exploded.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jun 20 2019, 05:44 PM
"This is what you get when you send your crewmen ashore to get weapons, but don't give them any money!" Finnbarr scolded Jeff.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 20 2019, 05:49 PM
"Mister Finnbarr..." Jeff turned toward his first mate, as the rest of the crew rushed to raise sails, bring up the gangplank, and haul up the anchor, "YOU ARE THE FIRST MATE! YOU ARE THE ONE IN CHARGE OF FINANCES!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jun 20 2019, 06:11 PM
"That is NOT what it says in the roster!" Finnbarr said as he held up the book.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 20 2019, 06:15 PM
"Then change the gosh darn roster! I trust ya to keep that roster accurate and up to date, so get it accurate and up to date!"

Several pirates and sailors tried to board the ship, but the crew managed to sweep the boarding ramp out from under them, causing a lot of shouting and splashing.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jun 20 2019, 06:21 PM
"You know darn well I don't know what date it is! I would if we hadn't thrown the sundial overboard last spring! Then this might be a different story!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 20 2019, 06:22 PM
"Wait, THAT'S WHAT THAT THING WAS!?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jun 20 2019, 06:23 PM
"WHAT ELSE WOULD IT HAVE BEEN?!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 20 2019, 06:25 PM
"I DON'T KNOW!"

"..."

"..."

"..."

"Mister Finnbarr, what's a sundial?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jun 20 2019, 06:33 PM
"..."

"..."

"..."

"It's not my responsibility to know what all this equipment does! That's the job of the quartermaster!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 20 2019, 06:34 PM
"Oh, I see..."

"..."

"..."

"..."

"MISTER FINNBARR, WHO IS THE QUARTERMASTER!? I GOTTA ASK HIM WHAT A SUNDIAL IS!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jun 20 2019, 06:35 PM
"BUT WE THREW HIM OVERBOARD WITH THE SUNDIAL!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 20 2019, 06:41 PM
Jeff paused, his jaw shifting back and forth for a moment as he contemplated this.

"Huh..." he finally uttered, "HEY! BROOSE! How'd ya like to be our new quartermaster!?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jun 20 2019, 06:42 PM
"Aye Captain!" called Broose, "What's a quartermaster?!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 20 2019, 06:45 PM
"The type of crewman who can tell me what a sundial is!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jun 20 2019, 06:56 PM
"Uh captain, sorry to interrupt," Arlyss said as she tapped Jeff on the shoulder, "But the crew is wondering what our heading is? You know, besides away from Hanichu."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 20 2019, 07:07 PM
"Ah... uh... um..." a flustered Jeff tore himself away from the argument, only to find that they were no longer near Hanichu at all, but were already out to open sea!

"Our heading, right!"

He turned about-face and stomped up the stairs onto the upper deck, finding the dark-haired pirate woman manning the helm for some reason.

"I'll take it from here, girl." he motioned her aside, then went to take the wheel, then found himself once again unable to see over it, "Bah, fetch my stool over there!"

"Aye cap'n." she saluted, recovering the stool and putting it under him.

Without a thank you, Jeff stepped onto the stool and glared dramatically at the horizon ahead.

"Our heading is due west!" he shouted to the crew, turning the wheel to face the ship straight toward the evening sun.

Jeff smiled for a moment, then frowned, then winced...

"MISTER FINNBAAAAARRR!!! I need my tinted spectacles!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jun 20 2019, 07:29 PM
Some time ago...

“Can I trust you to handle things here?”

Dimitrius smiled as he observed the distant look in his brother’s eye. Though they had always been close, it was throughout their campaigns across Acrylia that they’d forged a bond beyond mere brotherhood. Though their methods differed, they had worked together to grind down the Veridian menace, and when one of them had been in need, the other was always there for them. So it had been with this latest battle, where Dimitrius had arrived with reinforcements from the southern garrisons, turning the tide and sealing the empire’s fate.

The question did not need to be asked, nor did it need to be answered. But for formality’s sake, it was spoken. The two might not see each other for many moons, given what each had to do.

“Of course.”

Dimitrius put a hand on his brother’s shoulder, pleased that he would soon be returning to his beloved wife and child.

“Say hello to the womenfolk for me.”

“I shall.”

It was all the farewell they needed. Kyrus turned and trudged back to the camp, intent on gathering a small but elite unit of knights and cavalrymen to accompany him back to Cerulea. Dimitrius stood in place and watched him go, knowing that the duty of finishing off and further resistance now fell upon him. It was not a task he shied away from.

“Quite the sentimental pair, you two.” a feminine voice reached his ears from behind.

“Yiara.” Dimitrius smiled, turning to face the speaker, “I take it you enjoyed yourself?”

Before him stood a woman in black cloth and leather, red locks flowing from her head. Though she had gauntlets and gloves, her arms themselves were bare, the left of which displayed a prominent tattoo of a dagger piercing a raven skull. A cowl covered her mouth and nose initially, but she removed it as she approached him, revealing her blood red lips as they curled into a smile to match his. On her shoulder was perched a raven, which paranoidly scanned their surroundings with great fervor.

“Very much so. It was a good stretch of the muscles.” she answered his question in a smooth voice.

“A true shame I didn’t get to see you at work, love.” Dimitrius responded, then turned and looked back at Kyrus, who was still making his way across the vast, blood-soaked field.

“You sound… distracted, Dimitrius? The battle is won, what worries you so?” Yiara asked, moving in and sliding into an embrace.

“I just have… I have this feeling. Like I shouldn’t let him go alone.”

“Aw, you worry too much. Your brother is a big boy, he can take care of himself.” Yiara laughed, trying to draw his attention over to her.

“I know. The war is over, so I should feel a sense of relief… and yet, I cannot feel at ease.”

Yiara sighed, realizing she wasn’t going to get Dimitrius to pay attention to her until his fears were soothed. As such, she raised her left hand and waved it in the air, black energy that was dull as charcoal swirling forth in its wake. Beside her, a rift in the very air was torn open by the black magic, revealing a gateway into a dark chamber beyond.

“Azule.” she spoke.

A man dressed in black stepped through the rift, the portal sealing shut behind him once he was standing upon the bloody grass of the battlefield. He was dressed in black clothing, not unlike Yiara, and his mouth and nose were likewise concealed by a cowl. A black headband was tied around the top of his head, in addition, while a katana was sheathed on his back.

“What is your bidding, mistress?” the man asked, folding his hands in front of himself and bowing slightly.

“Dear Dimitrius is concerned for the safety of his brother. Please follow General Kyrus at a distance and look after him, but stay out of sight. Once he has arrived in the capital safely, report in to me.” she instructed.

“As you will, mistress.” the man bowed again, before heading after Kyrus.

“See? Your brother is in good hands now. Azule will watch over him until he has reached Cerulea safely.” Yiara assured her lover, as she squeezed him a little tighter.

“I hope so.” Dimitrius nodded slowly, eyes still staring into the distance, “I hope so.”

***

Horses had long ago proved themselves to be very useful creatures. They were swift, strong, and could carry a man for far longer than a man could remain upright on his own. Thus, few nobles would suffer the dishonor of not owning a horse, and many elite soldiers were equipped with them to enable rapid movement. The Ceruleans in particular had made extensive use of them, possessing the strongest cavalry forces in all of Acrylia. Although the Veridians had learned to counter with pikemen and archer formations, this did not stop Cerulean units from being far more mobile, both on the battlefield and on the way to it.

It was for that reason that Kyrus had taken a small force of horsemen with him on his journey back to Cerulea. Rather than march his whole army home, which would take many months, he figured to cut his trip down to a fraction of that time by traveling with a small, fast-moving group. An average human could never have hoped to keep up with such a unit, but the one known as Azule was no average man. Fast as the fastest racehorse and with unnaturally infinite endurance, the man could have crossed the entire continent in a sprint and never tired. Such was the ability granted to him by the pierced raven skull tattoo emblazoned on his left hand.

Across the plains and over the foothills he followed, remaining ever vigilant as he stood sentinel over their camps at night, never once revealing his presence to them. Stealth was a skill he had honed from youth without the need for unnatural powers, thus his speed and stamina were complimented with near-invisibility. This was only enhanced by the poor weather that seemed to follow them anywhere they went, though it also slowed their overall progress.

One night, while Kyrus’s party camped in the dark woods shaded by the barrier mountains to the east, Azule thought heard some rustling in the trees not far from the encampment. Investigation revealed no living creature, but as he was about to leave, he spotted a strange footprint in the mud. Obscured and only partial, he traced the outline of something that matched no man nor beast he was familiar with. What it was though, he could not say. He only knew he would watch their backs even more carefully now.

Days went by, and the riders entered the mountain pass, the rain and fog of the plains now shifting into snowfall in the highlands. It was not entirely surprising then, when the riders came across a stranded cart along the side of the road. From his place in the rocks above, Azule observed as Kyrus chivalrously directed his men to assist the poor travelers. But something was amiss.

Movement.

Azule narrowed his eyes as he stared down into the pass, particularly at the cliffs below him. To his alarm, he realized that dozens of armed men were emerging from hiding places amidst the boulders and rubble below. Some pulled out maces, hatchets and short swords, but most were equipped with bows, which they began to notch with arrows and point toward the unsuspecting Ceruleans.

Action had to be taken immediately. Though Azule would have preferred to contact the mistress with the magic crystal she had given him, it would take too long, and by the time he was done, Kyrus and the others would already be dead. As it was, he had lost too much time already. He needed to get down there, and quickly.

Whipping out his katana, he uttered a silent prayer to the ancient deities of Alizaria, before leaping from the height down toward one of the archers below. The archer in question was crushed by the assassin landing upon him, but the next nearest archer loosed his arrow at that same exact moment, the deadly projectile soon to pierce the throat of the suspicious Sir Wilford. However, the knight was avenged in short order, as the archer who slew him was promptly halved by the razor sharp blade of the dark-clad assassin. All hell broke loose seconds later, as the rest of the archers, on both sides of the pass, began to loose their arrows, while the men armed with melee weapons charged out from cover.

Azule moved to the next archer, and to the next, slaying each one with silent efficiency, yet it was not enough. Urgency began to eat away at his efficiency, as each subsequent archer seemed to take longer to kill. Or maybe he just realized how quickly he was running out of time. Then he saw it. Kyrus, an arrow in his back, being held in the arms of a young soldier. With his last strength, the general forced the man to take the bag which Azule had long ago figured to carry the fallen emperor’s gauntlet, and urged him to flee. Kyrus then slumped to the ground, already beginning to die.

He had failed. He had one task, to protect General Kyrus and see him safely to Cerulea. He had failed his mistress, and that meant his mistress had failed her beloved. He did not deserve to live after such a dishonor, but he would not dare take his own life. That privilege belonged to his mistress alone.

All at once, he recalled that there was more at stake. The gauntlet was still in the hands of a Cerulean, yet the attackers, whoever they were, would soon take it if not stopped. Shifting his attention from Kyrus, Azule found the young man with the gauntlet, whose horse had just been killed by an arrow volley before him. The young soldier was now staring into the eyes of one of the archers, who glared back with smug confidence. The soldier had nowhere to go, and the archer had a clear line of sight.

But so did Azule.

Fingering a throwing star, he again softly uttered a prayer for the ancient spirits to guide his aim, as he hurled the bladed disk toward the enemy. The blade embedded itself in the archer’s throat artery, causing him to fire his arrow wildly and miss the young soldier, before slipping to the ground as he rapidly bled to death. Azule looked back to the soldier, finding he’d been scooped up by another rider, and the two were fleeing the battle. The rescuer was shot by several arrows soon after, but the young soldier still had a chance.

Now acting furiously, Azule began to cut through the remainder of the ambushers, whose numbers had been reduced thanks to the battle with the Cerulean forces. Within three minutes, Azule was the only man still standing, the pass now choked by the bodies of the dead or dying.

He would catch up with the young soldier soon enough, but first, he had to see if it was not too late to save the general. He soon found Kyrus, who was already dead, lying with his eyes wide open, as if constantly staring at the suddenly clear sky above. Azule crouched beside the deceased and placed his hand over the General’s face, sliding it across to close his eyelids.

“Rest well, warrior.”

Standing up, Azule removed the magic crystal from his pouch so that he may communicate with his leader. He did not look forward to reporting his failure, but he had no choice. He could only hope his mistress would be merciful.

***

Warcamp en route to the Veridian border…

The sound of thrashing and screaming in the Cerulean command tent brought soldiers running forth in great haste. Their commander had been inside for some time, overlooking maps of the Veridian countryside, so he could strategize an invasion of the empire should the royal army be forced to do so. Of course, the army was still a long way from the border, but envoys had been sent ahead to notify the Veridian nobility of their emperor’s defeat, and to demand their peaceful surrender. With how weak Tarek’s rule had become prior to his most recent campaign, there was no doubt that his former subjects would be quick to accept a non-violent solution. Still, Commander Dimitrius of Leers was not one to be unprepared.

However, nothing could have prepared him for the news that his lover had brought him mere seconds ago. So when the soldiers burst into the tent, fearing an assassin had somehow made his way inside, they instead found the map table flipped, numerous portable furniture items knocked over or broken, clothing and blankets torn and cast about the floor, but their commander upright and in good health.

“Sir! We heard a commotion!” one of the soldiers reported, “Are you alright?”

“Can you not see that I am fine!? Leave me at once!” Dimitrius roared, tears at the corner of his eyes, his face red in rage and grief, “Get out! Out, or I will have the who lot of you lashed for insolence!”

“Yes sir!” the soldier gulped, as he and his comrades quickly filed out of the tent.

Dimitrius heaved a great sigh, as Yiara slowly stepped forward from her spot in the shadows.

“You needn’t be so harsh on your men, the fault lies with me and my own.” she stated coldly.

“Yes…” Dimitrius wanted to agree, but he only half-believed that, “But I knew better. I should never have left him to go alone! Damn it! DAMN IT! What am I to tell Isabelle when I return? That I sensed her husband was heading into mortal danger and was too much of a fool to stop him? Damn it all to--”

He kicked over his armor stand, but as he was not wearing his combat boots, his toe impacted the heaven wooden construct with a painful thud.

“GAH!” he yelped.

“Get a hold of yourself, Dimitrius!” Yiara snapped, “There is nothing you can do for your brother now, but there is more to this than merely his death. Azule uncovered more about the nature of the attackers, and what we believe they were actually after…”

Dimitrius stopped raging all at once, his head turning toward Yiara, a look of utmost seriousness overtaking his face.

“The gauntlet... What has become of the gauntlet!?”

***

As Captain Jeff's ship slowly faded into the horizon, a woman in black stood on the Hanichu docks, her red locks billowing softly in the sea breeze. Her black eyes stared at the tiny vessel, figuring well enough what must be on board. She did not react as a jittery raven landed on her shoulder a moment later.

"And you are sure it is with them?" Yiara asked her partner, shifting her head ever so softly to gaze at the raven.

"Yes." the bird softly squawked, nodding its head.

"Well then..." the woman looked back the horizon, "It will not be for long."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jul 05 2019, 06:50 PM
As the ship sailed away not far from the harbor, the two guards were dismayed.

"We abandoned our future king!" Nelson said softly with a puzzled look.

"Yep. We sure did." Wilber replied starring at the ship which was now far away.

"WE'RE DOOOOOMED!" cried Nelson, "With no prince to become the next king after our king, WE'LL END UP AS FARMERS OUT OF NOWHERE!"

"Don't you mean, we'll have our heads chopped?" corrected Wilber.

"THAT TOO!! King Kolo will kill us that we lost his son!"

"But Nelson, we always lose his son."

"THAT'S BECAUSE WE RESCUE HIM AFTER WE LOST HIM!!"

"Exactly! So all we have to do, is rescue the prince again."

"And how are we suppose to do that?!"

There was a short silence. Expect for the sounds of the seagulls.

"We go tell the king..." said Wilber and quickly ran away, "HURRY!"

"WHAT?!" exclaimed Nelson and ran after him, "WAIT FOR MEE!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jul 14 2019, 11:09 AM
"ROOOLL CAAALL!" Finnbarr screamed from the main deck.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 14 2019, 11:24 AM
Jeff fell off his stool in surprise.

"By the devil, give me a warning next time, Mr. Finnbarr!" he groaned.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jul 21 2019, 06:37 PM
"Why, so you can cheat and upgrade your position in the log? I don't think so!" Finnbarr replied.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 21 2019, 06:41 PM
"What? I'm the captain, how could I upgrade my position? Unless... MISTER FINNBARR, is there a position higher than captain that ya haven't told me about!?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jul 21 2019, 06:48 PM
"The only one I can think of is the crow's nest! But I'm telling you Jeff, you can't have it! Mr. Deve worked hard for that position!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 21 2019, 06:51 PM
"MISTER DEEVE, DO YOU WANT TO SWI--" Jeff began to shout before suddenly stopping short, "Oh, very clever Mister Finnbarr, very clever... But ya can't pull one over on ol' Jeff! Now get back to work and announce that roll call!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jul 21 2019, 06:53 PM
"What a minute!" called Deve, "Does that mean Me get raise?! Or does that make me Captain?!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 21 2019, 06:54 PM
"Ya heard nothin', Mister Deeve, and that's an order!" Jeff barked back.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jul 21 2019, 06:56 PM
"ROOOLL CAAALL!" Finnbarr screamed again. "Captain Jeff! You are the captain! Your duties are to captain the ship, pay for the ship..."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 21 2019, 06:58 PM
"Move on to the next one, Mister Finnbarr...." Jeff growled.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jul 21 2019, 07:02 PM
"Hmpf! Who died and made you captain..." Finnbarr grumbled.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 21 2019, 07:08 PM
"We all know who died and made me captain, Mister Finnbarr." Jeff replied somberly, removing his helmet and placing it over his heart, while looking at the sky.

Luetenberger and Finnbarr immediately did likewise, well, except Finnbarr was missing his hat, so he borrowed Duncan's hat right off his head and placed that over his heart instead.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jul 21 2019, 07:09 PM
"Back to business!" Finnbarr said quickly as he plopped the hat back on Duncan, "Mr. Cook!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 21 2019, 07:10 PM
"Aye, mite!" Cook raised his hand.

"Mister Finnbarr, can we please just skip to the new crewmembers?" Jeff grimaced.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jul 21 2019, 07:18 PM
"Fine..." Finnbarr sighed, "Mr. Broose!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 21 2019, 07:19 PM
"He is not a new crewmember!" Jeff snapped.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jul 21 2019, 07:20 PM
"But he has a new position! He's the quartermaster!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 21 2019, 07:21 PM
"Oh... right... CARRY ON!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jul 21 2019, 07:22 PM
"Aye! I'm here!" interrupted Broose, "But I have a question, What's a Quartermaster?!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jul 21 2019, 07:25 PM
"You tell Jeff what a sun dial is," Finnbarr explained. "Mr. Deve! Are you in the crow's nest?!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jul 21 2019, 07:28 PM
"Of course Me in a crows nest!" replied Deve, "But Me still get a raise?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 21 2019, 07:41 PM
"You're already raised as high as ya can get, Mr. Deeve! Now shut it!" Jeff snapped.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jul 21 2019, 07:44 PM
"Okay, skipping ahead to new crew members," Finnbarr said as he thumbed through the pages. "Hmm... Jeff? It appears there are no new crew members."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 21 2019, 07:45 PM
"Then who are all these people!" Jeff exploded, making broad, wavy hand gestures at the newer members of the crew below.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jul 21 2019, 07:51 PM
"Well they are most definitely not in the roster," Finnbarr replied as he shut the book. "So that makes them either stowaways, invaders, or villagers who mistook our ship for a pleasure cruise... again."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 21 2019, 07:52 PM
"Well, which one is it, ya scurvy lot!?" Jeff bellowed at the folks below.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jul 21 2019, 07:56 PM
"Don't you remember?" Prince Carder shouted, "You're to take me and my men to Veridi-wait...where's my guards?! GUARDS?! GUARDS!!"

"Guess they didn't make it." shrugged Wondu.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 22 2019, 05:48 AM
"Oh, that's right..." Jeff stroked his beard.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jul 22 2019, 02:16 PM
"Hey Jeff," Finnbarr whispered as he pulled him aside, "We're not actually sailing to Veridia, right?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 22 2019, 04:33 PM
"Erm... eventually," Jeff shrugged, "I have a plan!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jul 22 2019, 04:36 PM
"You have a plan, well that gives me a warm, fuzzy feeling... like when a monsoon's on the horizon!" Finnbarr rolled his eyes.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 22 2019, 04:38 PM
"That is uncalled for, Mister Finnbarr! My plans are always brilliant! It's just your execution of said plans that always messes us up!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jul 22 2019, 07:42 PM
"It's not my job to execute anyone! If you wanted an executioner you should have hired one in Hanichu!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 22 2019, 07:48 PM
"Well then maybe I should appoint one of THOSE people executioner!" Jeff pointed at the new crewmen and passengers below.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jul 22 2019, 07:53 PM
Melvyn looked at his compass, then looked up at the group.

"Okay, time to begin! Let's all introduce ourselves. My name is Sonny Phylmorson."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jul 22 2019, 07:59 PM
Everybody looked confused.

"Hey wait a minute! You never told me you had a different name!" Harvey spoke up.

"Sonny? Who's Sonny?!" Deve shouted.

"You can call him Phyl." Wondu chuckled and whispered to Carder, "His name is actually Melvyn."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 23 2019, 08:12 AM
"Is that what ye prefer to be called, Mister Vyn?" Killroy wondered.

Gideon just eyed Melvyn suspiciously, then eyed everyone else suspiciously.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jul 26 2019, 06:42 PM
"Why would I prefer to be called That? That is kind of a funny name... though I suppose if you wanted to call me Mister That, it would be okay."

"Well I'll be next," Arlyss interrupted, "My name is Arlyss, and I'm Mr. That's daughter. My brother over there is Eamon, and we come from Westinburg. I enjoy adventure, family and clan reunions, and skirmishes with the local folk!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jul 26 2019, 08:09 PM
"I've been to Westinburg once. I loike their pies." Cook remarked.

"Uh... I guess if it be my turn..." Killroy looked around, "Name's Killroy, son of Gillroy! But call me either Kill, or Roy, if ye please."

"Aw, that's cute." the dark-haired woman giggled, stepping past Killroy and ruffling his hair with her hand.

Once she was passed him though, she struck a rather exaggerated pose in the midst of the group, as she introduced herself.

"Molly Aurora, high sea extraordinaire! Plunderer of ports, conqueror of ships, and slayer of fell beasties, and men, if you take my meaning," she gave Eamon a wink, "at your service!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Aug 01 2019, 09:54 AM
"Aye. And don't forget about me!" Tucker called out Finnbarr, "I am Tucker Green as I said before. Used to be a cleaner and cargo-men...till now...which is way better!"

"And I am Prince Carder of Jerando." announced the Prince, "Son of my father King Kolo and my Mother Queen Ruby! And these two men's names is Wondu Roads who once helped Tarek of Veridia, and Harvey Spear, foamer captain of my father's army!"

"At your service!" Harvey replied.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Aug 02 2019, 10:21 AM
"Whey are ye all at our service! Shouldn't ye be at the captain's service!?" Killroy snapped.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Aug 10 2019, 11:16 AM
"Actually, I serve the Prince...and the king." said Harvey, "But I was just saying! What's the problem with that?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Aug 11 2019, 10:05 AM
"Wait a minute," the unnamed woman interrupted, "which of you here are actually crew members?"

"I honestly believe just the captain and first mate," Melvyn shrugged. "The rest of us are here for the ride."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Aug 11 2019, 10:08 AM
"I-I-I'm part of the crew!" Duncan volunteered.

"Roight, designated swimmer, 'ee is," Cook laughed.

"So who are ye supposed to be?" Gideon glared at the unnamed woman, "Ye don't look like a sailor to me."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Aug 11 2019, 10:31 AM
"My name is Shelana, and I am a pirate, pretty boy," she answered. "And what are you supposed to be? The keeper of the dress code?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Aug 11 2019, 10:35 AM
"Do ye not recognize the garb of an honored servant of House Corbaine?" Gideon snapped, "Ye ought to speak to me with some level of respect!"

"No wonder he didn't say 'at yer service'," Killroy noted, "He still be serving our enemies!"

"Aye, wonder what we outta do about this," Cook rubbed his chin with one hand, and fingered the meat cleaver strapped to his belt with the other.

"I mean do ye not recognize the garb of an ex-servant of House Corbaine!" Gidean yelped, "But now very much an honored servant of good Captain Jeff!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Aug 20 2019, 07:26 PM
"Is it something I should recognize?" Shelana asked blankly.

"Speaking of which, we should go shopping for clothes the next time we make port!" Arlyss said as she nodded to Molly, "You're in, right?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Aug 21 2019, 09:20 AM
"You got it, girl!" Molly gave Arlyss a thumbs up.

"Oy! What're ya all still standin' around for!" Jeff's voice suddenly boomed from above, "Back to work, the lot of ya! We need all hands workin' at full capacity if we're to make it to Veridia!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Oct 09 2019, 06:58 PM
Luetenberger came up from below deck, and began handing out oars to everyone on deck.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Oct 09 2019, 07:20 PM
Molly looked down at the oar, then back at Luetenberger, then back at the oar.

"We'd be better off if we all got out and pushed," she remarked.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Oct 10 2019, 04:35 PM
"Okay... B-but... don't you think we better ask Cap'm Jeff first?" Luetenberger asked.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Oct 11 2019, 07:58 AM
"Oh, no no, don't bother the captain with it, sweetie," Molly patted Luetenberger on the shoulder (though she had to get on her tip-toes a little to reach it), "You keep on doing your duty."

"Speaking-a duty, I best get back below decks. G'day," Cook nodded to the rest of the crew, before heading back to the galley.

Gideon had decided to leave the gathering, and was now ascending the stairs to get to the upper deck.

"Cap'n, if I may!" he addressed Jeff.

"Ya may not, crewman fancy-pants! Whatever it is, the answer is no!" Jeff roared.

"Beggin' yer pardon, sir," Gideon growled, "But this is mighty important! If we be sailin' tuh Veridia, the ought we be headin' east? We be goin' the wrong way!"

"Aye, but the Corbaines are following us from the east, so I'm not to keen on heading back that way so soon," Jeff shook his head.

"But if ye double-back, they might not be expectin' it, and ye might give 'em the slip!" Gideon suggested.

"Maybe, but I know ol' Clarence, and he'll be expecting me to expect him to not expect me to turn back east, therefor, I will go west to throw him off!" Jeff countered.

"But what if Clarence is expectin' you to expect him to expect you to expect him to not expect you to turn back east!"

"I expect he may expect that, but I expect that he'll know that I expect that he expects that, which is how I will fool him!"

"But what if he expects that you expect him to expect you of expectin' him!?"

"WHY THAT DIRTY VILLAIN!" Jeff exploded, "I did not expect him to be so clever! All hands, brace yaselves!"

With that, he suddenly flung the helm to the left, causing the ship to make an abrupt turn to port, which he held until they were facing directly east.

"I'll show him to try to match wits with with Captain Jeff!" the dwarven captain growled defiantly.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Nov 13 2019, 07:13 PM
The next few days passed uneventfully as the band of sailors traveled to the east and towards Veridia. As morning dawned on the fourth day, the sleeping crew members on the lower deck were awoken by the sound of... Melvyn.

"Good morning everyone!" he greeted as he pushed on the hammocks, perhaps hard enough to knock a few unsuspecting blokes onto the floor. "We have urgent business afoot! Get up and prepare to man your stations!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Nov 14 2019, 08:32 AM
Killroy jumped to his feet and ran toward the door.

"Be we under attack!?" he asked frantically.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 10 2020, 07:55 PM
"Indeed we are, my dear boy!" Melvyn replied, "We are under attack by a most nefarious enemy that seeks to corrupt and demoralize the hearts of all aboard this vessel! But we shall not let this happen! No my boy, we shall not! We cannot!"

"I didn't think Cook's food was that bad," Arlyss shrugged.

"We have the plague that we are not all team players! And I have just the remedy... today, we begin a Crew Building Exercise."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 11 2020, 07:23 AM
"A what...?" Killroy's eye twitched.

"Keep yer bloody new-fangled northerner ideas to yourselves," Gideon whined, "Some of us are tryin' tuh' sleep."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 12 2020, 02:52 PM
"Here is a prime example, Mr. Roy," Melvyn explained as he motioned to Gideon, "This man is so biased against northerners, that he has already closed his minds to the diversity we can all bring to the table!"

"So we are still talking about the food!" Arlyss said, "I knew it!"

"I don't like where this is going," Eamon sighed as he pulled his hat up from his eyes.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 14 2020, 06:06 AM
"Oh, you don't like that this is going to be about food, mate?" Cook burst into the crew quarters, his apron covered in something and a sullied cleaver in his hand, "Well then, you can help me make breakfast!"

He grabbed Eamon by the collar and began to drag him to the galley.

"Mister Vin, what be a diversity?" Killroy asked.

Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 15 2020, 04:56 PM
"Have fun!" Arlyss waved as her brother departed with Cook.

"Diversity is like a small dragon," Melvyn explained, "but there are no front legs, so it stands on the hind ones."

"That's a Wyvern," Shelannah corrected from the other end of the room.

"Wha... a wyern? Here?" Melvyn laughed, "Don't be absurd, these quarters are much too small to house a wyvern, but they shall serve our purpose for our dragon."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jan 16 2020, 08:41 AM
"DRAGON?! WHERE?! WHERE?!" Tucker jumped off his hammock and saw the crew already up, "Oh. Must've been a dream or somethin." then he turned to Broose and Deve, "Alright men! Time to get moving!

"Ay! Deve! Wake up! Wake up!" called Broose touching under Deve's hammock which made Deve to wake up and flip off his hammock and crashed on Broose which also made him flip off his hammock and landed on Tucker's foot!

"YEOW!" screamed Tucker, "GET OFF M'ER FOOT!"

"Then get HIM off of me!" Broose grunted trying to get Deve off of him.

"OY! What did you do that for?! ME hate that!" Deve sprung up to his feet.

"You heard him!" Broose snorted after getting up to his feet as well, "It's time to get moving!"

"Oy...!" muttered Deve.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 22 2020, 06:08 AM
Gideon was now sleeping face down with a pillow (he was the only one who had one, and nobody knows how he got it) held tight around his head, trying to block-out the noise.

"I don't understand..." was all Killroy could say to all of that.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Feb 02 2020, 09:27 AM
"It's quite simple, my good lad," Melvyn said. "But I want the others to be here before I explain."

"Yes! It is about food!" Arlyss cheered.

Shelannah squinted as she rubbed her eyes.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Feb 02 2020, 12:38 PM
"Aww..." Killroy moaned.

"I am going to go sleep on the deck!" Gideon snapped, standing up and heading for the stairs topside.

Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Feb 25 2020, 06:43 PM
"Yes, my dear lad!" Melvyn agreed as he grabbed Gideon by the collar, "Go and gather what other crewmembers you can find. But please avoid the good captain and first mate."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Feb 25 2020, 06:51 PM
"What? Why? I am not your errand boy!" Gideon snapped indignantly.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Feb 25 2020, 07:03 PM
"So you want to stay below deck? That's fine, I'm sure I can handle it myself," Melvyn replied as he began climbing the stairs.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Feb 25 2020, 07:05 PM
Gideon paused and looked around at the others that were gathered below deck.

"Oh, no you don't! I'm not falling for that one! I will find the crewmembers above deck!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Feb 25 2020, 07:16 PM
Melvyn shrugged as he continued walking up the stairs. Gideon couldn't see it, but he had a sly smile upon his face.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Feb 25 2020, 07:52 PM
Up on the deck, the first person immediately visible to Melvyn was Molly, who was manning the helm. There didn't appear to be anyone else on deck at the moment. Gideon, eyeing the pirate woman suspiciously, decided to let Melvyn handle her, while he went toward the bow to check for people there... or just to slack off and enjoy the morning breeze.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 10 2020, 05:11 PM
"Morning to you Miss Aurora," Melvyn greeted her as walked up the stairs. "I see our good captain is yet to be awoken?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Mar 10 2020, 05:14 PM
"Still sleeping soundly," Molly replied, "I figured I'd just let him be; older folks need their rest."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 10 2020, 05:23 PM
Melvyn simply nodded as he joined her on the main deck, and stared at the horizon. After a moment he spoke.

"Where do you hail from, Miss Aurora?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Mar 10 2020, 05:35 PM
"Nowhere in particular," she replied, "I was born at sea and the sea has been home ever since. You could say I live wherever the wind takes me."

She allowed the warm morning breeze to flow through her hair, or rather, she posed herself so that it would do so in a more dramatic fashion than was necessary.

"You don't have the look of a sailor," she resumed, looking at Melvyn, "but I can tell you are the adventurous sort. It wouldn't surprise me if you don't have a set place you call home either."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 10 2020, 05:46 PM
"I have a place to go back to, but you're right, I wouldn't call it home," Melvyn said thoughtfully, "Some people like having a home, cause it means safety and security, but I've found it's sometimes more dangerous to have a set place to live."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Mar 10 2020, 05:55 PM
"Smart," she agreed, "It's better to stay on the move, harder for the wrong people to find you that way."

She sighed and cocked her head in a way to make her flowing hair more dramatic again.

"I remember a time when--"

"MISTER FINNBARR!" Jeff suddenly burst out of the captain's cabin behind them, "How is it that it is already mid-morning and I was NOT INFORMED!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 10 2020, 06:03 PM
"INFORMED ABOUT WHAT?!" Finnbarr yelled as he shuffled over from the nets he had been sleeping on.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Mar 10 2020, 06:05 PM
"ABOUT IT BEING MID-MORNING ALREADY!" Jeff snapped, "That is absolutely critical information for the captain to know!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 10 2020, 06:08 PM
"You told me NEVER to be critical of what the captain knows!" Finnbarr retorted, "Now you want me to? Well I can certainly oblige!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Mar 10 2020, 06:15 PM
"Well then, Mister Finnbarr, why don't ya--" Jeff began, before Molly mercifully interrupted.

"Captain, I have maintained our heading of forty degrees due east and we are making fine time. However..."

"However!? Why is there always a however!? Or a "but", or an "unfortunately", or a "the only problem is"! CAN YA PEOPLE NEVER DELIVER GOOD NEWS AND JUST LEAVE IT AT THAT!" Jeff exploded.

"..." Molly pursed her lips to one side, then smiled and shrugged, "Of course sir, no bad news to report!"

"Oh, good!" Jeff grunted, "Ya had me worried for a moment there."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 10 2020, 06:26 PM
"As delightful as this has been," Melvyn stated as he tipped his hat the the group, "I believe that my son and Mr. Cook might be needing some help in the kitchen, so I shall bid you all farewell for now. Miss Aurora."

He tipped his hat once more to the girl, and departed down the stairs. He was about to head below deck, when he took a turn and headed for Prince Carder's cabin. He approached it and knocked on the door.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Mar 10 2020, 06:44 PM
The door opened slowly till the prince popped his out.

"You wish to see me?" he asked.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 10 2020, 06:48 PM
"On the contrary, I believe you wish to see me," Melvyn said confidently, "Shall I come in?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Mar 10 2020, 06:59 PM
"Yes you may." replied the prince as he let Melvyn in, "So tell me, you helped Tarek to retrieve the shards of Losh and helped him restore his empire from the Cerulean Republic. What made you do that?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Mar 10 2020, 07:02 PM
"I see you've talked to Wondu," Melvyn said cautiously, "Be careful in your search for the Shards, Your Highness. You have no idea what danger they involve."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Mar 10 2020, 07:10 PM
"My father and mother told me about them that whoever has them in his hands, controls the weather. Me, you're friend, & my former captain were sent to find those stones. Because Wondu told me that the Veridia Empire had lost against the Ceruleans again. And if they have them, we must stop them or else the world will be in danger! Or worse yet, any evil being will take them!" Carder told him.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Apr 01 2020, 11:36 AM
"Your Highness, if I may be so bold," Melvyn said as if to begin a long dramatic reply, "Calm. Down."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Apr 02 2020, 06:06 PM
"I know. But my father won't allow himself or anyone else to be part of using the from the stones." advised Carder calmly and whispered to Melvyn, "Which is why I offered the Captain of this ship to take me and my men to Veridia. Once we retrieved these stones, we'll dispose them before any evil being takes them!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Apr 02 2020, 07:25 PM
"Yes, but your highness, you must be discreet about it," Melvyn cautioned. "You have no idea who you are sailing with, and who you shall encounter in your search. You are also without your guards, so you only have Mr. Spear and Wondu to rely on. And of these, you only really know Mr. Spear, which means your friends are few. You must hide the true meaning of your search, and you must NOT mention the shards. To ANYONE."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Apr 09 2020, 02:58 PM
"I understand." agreed the prince, "Now you mentioned about my guards...I wonder what they're up to?"

                                                                       ***

"WE'RE GOING AFTER MY SON!" King Kolo ordered to his men who were preparing to leave the castle after the two guards Wilber and Nelson reported all the commotion about the prince.

"Go back to that village?!" Nelson questioned nervously, "But what about those stupid sailors who were trying to capture him?!"

"They will remain doing their business!" the King replied, "I should've known my son would get into trouble again! But yet, we can only hope that he can get to Veridia to find the Shards-...if he ever makes it there. So be ready! We're leaving right now!"

"That was your idea that we lost the prince!" Wilber muttered sharply to Nelson.

"So was yours, Buster!" Nelson snapped back as he and Wilber got back on their horses.

Queen Ruby ran to the King and was worried about him and her son.

"Are you sure that you're going after our son into the sea who's with a band of pirates?!" she asked nervously.

"I have to!" the King said, "Because I can't lose our son! He may be in trouble!"

"But your highness! Harvey and Wondu are with him!" Nelson called out.

"It won't make a difference since they're outnumbered!" King Kolo replied, "If something ever happen to him...I'll never forgive myself since I sent him away! He's our only son, and our future king! So we must go save him! ARE YOU WITH ME?!"

"YES YOUR HIGHNESS!" replied the men.

"While I'm gone, you are in charge of my kingdom." the King told the Queen.

"I wish you good luck. Please be safe." the Queen said sadly and hugged her husband and began to cry, "I don't want to lose you either."

"I know, Ruby. I know." the King said sadly as well.

The King got on to his horse and led twenty of his men along with Wilber and Nelson out the castle and galloped to the open country side. Queen Ruby stood above the gate as she watched her husband ran into the distance.

                                                                             ***

Back to the ship, Wondu and Harvey walked up to the main area of the ship to see the crew doing their work.

"I hope the prince knows what he's doing." Wondu whispered to Harvey, "Because I don't trust those men."

"Neither do I." replied Harvey, "Especially with those two dummies who stole a ton weapons from town."

The two dummies Harvey mentioned were Broose and Deve.

"How long do we have to sail to reach...any land the Prince wants?" complained Broose.

"Depends how long you be Quartermaster." Deve replied rudely.

"I see. But still-...What's a Quartermaster?!"

"All I know is," Tucker walked by, "You're not my master!"

"Wait...I'M A MASTER?!" gasped Broose.

"I was being sarcastic." Tucker mumbled.

"Well...it's worse than a-half master! HA-HA!" Deve laughed.

"Yes." Wondu agreed to Harvey, "I see your point."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Apr 13 2020, 09:11 AM
Melvyn left the prince's room and entered the main deck, and upon seeing Wondu and Harvey, walked over to them.

"I'm going to need some help below deck," he said, "Go down and I'll join you shortly."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on May 08 2020, 09:01 PM
"Of course." agreed Wondu, "What for?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on May 08 2020, 09:15 PM
Melvyn smiled, "Just a little distraction." He then left them and headed toward the kitchen... wherever that was.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on May 08 2020, 09:22 PM
"Very well then." replied Wondu and he and Harvey walked below deck.

Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Sep 24 2020, 04:11 PM
Meanwhile, Gideon had reached the bow of the ship, only to find Deve and Broose were there, having been obscured from his line of sight by some (empty) crates. Looking around and finding that nobody else was present, the ex-Corbaine enforcer instantly thought up a scheme.

"Ah, good morning to ye, lads," he greeted them, "Fine day, ain't it?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Sep 24 2020, 04:19 PM
"No!" complained Deve, "It is terrible after Me woke up! Seagulls diving in water, Broose not knowing what a Quartermaster is, and we in the open OCEAN! Of course it a fine day."

Broose rolled his eyes. 
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Sep 24 2020, 05:00 PM
"Ah, 'tis a shame," Gideon shook his head, "Imagine if ye both were rich enough to not have to deal with it?"

He then wrapped his arms around each of their shoulders.

"Imagine if we found a wee bit of treasure?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Sep 24 2020, 05:09 PM
"Oooh! I like the sound of treasure!" Broose said excitedly, "But unfortunately...we never got to it."

"Yeah. All we have to do is deliver fish to Captain's boss!" added Deve, "Now all we have to do is take thee prince to ye dead war zone of Veridia!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Sep 24 2020, 05:17 PM
"Sounds like a lotta unnecessary risk to me," Gideon shook his head, "But that Melvyn guy, did either if ye notice... 'e took something offa that dead man that we found a few days ago. An' he's hiding it too, keepin' it to himself."

He looked back and forth between the two.

"Ye know why? He's got somethin' valuable... something like... treasure."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Sep 24 2020, 05:32 PM
"TREASURE!" Deve and Broose spoke up till Gideon put his hands on their mouths. No one heard them. So he uncovered them.

"Did you say treasure?" Deve whispered, "And we not notice it?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Sep 24 2020, 05:38 PM
"Aye, he's a sneaky one, that Melvyn. He's trying to keep us from noticin', but I see through his deception. But he's crafty, he'll try to distract us, keep the others too busy to notice what he's hiding. We can't let him know we be on to him though."

He glanced over his shoulder to make sure nobody was watching.

"So here's the plan, we keep an eye on him, watch to see where he be hidin' that treasure he took. If any of us find out, we tell the other two. Then, we come up with a plan to take the treasure for ourselves and split it between the three of us."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Sep 24 2020, 05:45 PM
"I waited to have any treasure for a long time!" Broose rubbed his hands, "Even when I became a sailor!"

"Me say we kill him at night and take thee treasure!" Deve hissed pulling out his sword, "And...shall we split it with me sword?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Sep 24 2020, 05:49 PM
"Ssshhhhh..." Gideon patted them both on the shoulders, "Patience, lads. First we need to find out where he be keepin' the treasure, then we can act. Until then, just keep quiet and watch him."

He removed his arms from their shoulders, and stepped in front of the two, then put his hand out.

"Do we have an accord?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Sep 24 2020, 05:51 PM
"Aye!" agreed Deve.

"It's a deal!" Broose added.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Sep 24 2020, 06:23 PM
"Good," Gideon grinned, "Oh, also we need to meet downstairs. Remember, keep an eye out, but don't say anything."

And with that, the trio headed for the stairs down into the sleeping quarters.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Sep 24 2020, 06:39 PM
Once most the crew had gathered, Melvyn also descended below deck.

"You are probably wondering why I have called you all here," he said.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Sep 24 2020, 06:40 PM
"Aye!" Killroy responded impatiently, having been waiting for some time by now.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Sep 24 2020, 06:43 PM
"You see, in two days, it will be our captain's birthday," Melvyn explained, "And we are going to throw him a surprise party!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Sep 24 2020, 06:45 PM
"You called us all here for that?" Gideon spat indignantly.

"It be the captain's birthday in two days?" Killroy's eyes widened, "I had no idea! Wait... how'd ye know?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Sep 24 2020, 07:01 PM
"I have my ways," Melvyn winked. "But we don't want the captain to find out. We will need to be swift, but secretive; I know I can trust you all."

Eamon simply lifted an eyebrow.

"We will need a cake!" Arlyss said excitedly.

"A what?" Shelana asked.

"Cake? You know, like bread, but lighter, and sweeter, and wonderfuler?" Arlyss tried to explain, but Shelana had a blank expression upon her face.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Sep 24 2020, 07:03 PM
"Aye! But also," Tucker spoke in, "We shall sing and drink for him!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Sep 24 2020, 07:06 PM
"Cook made a cake once! But Lutenberger tripped and accidentally threw it into Jeff's face," Killroy noted, tapping his chin.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Sep 24 2020, 07:09 PM
"Do you think he could do that again?" Melvyn asked.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Sep 24 2020, 07:11 PM
"Throw food in Jeff's face? Absolutely," Killroy nodded with confidence.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Sep 24 2020, 07:15 PM
"He meant the cake," Shelana sighed.

Melvyn furrowed his brow, "No I didn't."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Sep 24 2020, 07:30 PM
"We should get him some presents!" Deve pointed out, "Like tre-"

"Seagulls!" Broose spoke out after he covered Deve's mouth, "Jeff would love a pet seagull as a present! Right Deve?"

"What? Uh...YES! YES!" Deve quickly agreed, "A nice beautiful seagull!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Sep 24 2020, 08:08 PM
"I once had a pet seagull," Molly stared off into the distance, "He was nice... until he flew away."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Oct 08 2020, 05:46 PM
"Me know! Sea turtles!" Deve pointed out, "A pet that won't fly away!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Oct 08 2020, 06:13 PM
"Great idea," Shelana rolled her eyes, "No way for a water pet to escape around here."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Oct 08 2020, 07:19 PM
"So anyway," Gideon stepped-in to change the subject before Deve and Broose messed up further, "Yerr plan is to have the cook--"

"He ain't "the cook", he's just Cook!" Killroy interjected indignantly.

"Whatever. Yer gonna have Cook throw a cake in the captain's face then?" Gideon scowled at Killroy, then turned his attention back to Melvyn.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Oct 08 2020, 08:33 PM
"Of course not!" Melvyn laughed, "I'm going to have Luetenberger do it."
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Oct 08 2020, 08:35 PM
"Is that common birthday courtesy in Noverth then?" Gideon scoffed.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Oct 08 2020, 08:44 PM
"In Noverth, it would be considered a great insult. But luckily, we aren't in Noverth anymore," Melvyn said. "Now getting down to business, here's the plan..."

Two Hours Later

"Okay, are we in agreement then?" Melvyn asked as he stood up.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Oct 08 2020, 09:09 PM
"Aye!" Tucker replied.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Oct 09 2020, 08:55 AM
"Aye!" Killroy agreed.

"I... don't know what we even agreed on..." Gideon mumbled, having just been zoned out for the past hour and forty-five minutes.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jan 05 2021, 07:34 AM
"A party for thee Captain of course!" Broose barked, "When do we start?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 07 2021, 02:09 PM
"Right now," Melvyn smiled as he ascended the stairs and opened the hatch to the main deck. As he did so, a streaming torrent of rain blasted him in the face, sending him crashing back to the poor blokes who were following him. Through the hatch they could hear a crack of thunder, followed buy a loud crash.

"We've lost the foremast Jeff!" Finnbarr screamed as he attempted to lower the other sails.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 07 2021, 02:15 PM
"That's because nobody lowered the sails! Where the devil is that crew I hired!? AND WHERE THE DEVIL DID THIS STORM COME FROM!?!" Jeff bellowed over the gale.

"I would have told you it was coming, captain! But you told me not to give you bad news!" Molly shouted back.

"WHEN THE NEWS IS THIS BAD, YOU TELL ME!"

"Was only following orders, captain!" Molly shrugged with an innocent smile.

"BAAAAAHHHH!!!" Jeff raged, as he rushed to try and help Finnbarr lower the sails, but his small stature made that somewhat difficult.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 07 2021, 02:20 PM
"I told you we should have bought a smaller boat!" Finnbarr railed as he furiously pulled on a rope. "But no! You had to get one that required a crew!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 07 2021, 02:25 PM
"And how are we supposed to make any money with a ship smaller than this one!? Have you even seen the CARGO CAPACITY ON ONE OF THOSE PUNY SCHOONERS!?" Jeff retorted, now nearly horizontal as he leaned back to try and haul on the ropes.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 07 2021, 02:28 PM
"Oh, so you think we're making money with this one?" Finnbarr laughed hysterically, "Have you seen the books lately!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 07 2021, 02:34 PM
"Of course not! We sold the library to that charlatan in Eastport in exchange for those reading lessons!" Jeff screamed, as he finally began gaining ground with his rope, "That scoundrel ripped me off! I STILL CAN'T READ!"

"How would you know if you don't have any books anymore?" Molly inquired.

"..."

"..."

"MISTER FINNBARR, WHY WOULD I TAKE READING LESSONS IF WE WERE GOING TO SELL ALL THE BOOKS!?!!?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 07 2021, 02:46 PM
"Wait a minute, you sold the books?!" Finnbarr screamed. "Those weren't reading books! That was where I hid all the jewels we stole from that Cerulean Lord!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 07 2021, 02:48 PM
"WHAAAAAAATTTTTTT!!?!!?" Jeff suddenly wrenched on the rope so hard that sale finally came down and caused him to fall on his back.

While down on the deck, he happened to look up, to see the entire crew standing just atop the stairwell, unhelpfully watching him and Finnbarr work.

"Mister Finnbarr," Jeff began in a much calmer voice, "kindly remind me what the purpose of a crew is again?"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 07 2021, 02:58 PM
"Hold on, let me check the roster," Finnbarr said formally as he let go of his rope and removed a small book from his pocket. The starboard side of the sail went crashing downwards while Finnbarr began to read from the water drenched book, "My goodness, you're right Jeff, something is wrong! Mr. Deve, you're supposed to be in the crows nest!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jan 07 2021, 03:17 PM
"AYE!" replied Deve as he rushed towards the crows nest, "Me thought it was a sunny day!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 07 2021, 03:33 PM
"It was!" Molly replied, "But we've been sailing toward a stormfront all day."

"Shut yar yapping and steer the boat, woman!" Jeff snapped, "Keep her straight and steady!"

"Aye, sir!"

"The rest of ya lazy, good-fer-nothing ne'er-do-wells, get to your stations!" Jeff then turned to crew, "NOW!!!"

"Hoy, captain!" Molly interrupted.

"WHAT!?"

"Remember ya said to keep her straight and steady?" Molly asked, pointing ahead.

"Aye?!" Jeff turned to see what Molly was pointing at.

Ahead of them loomed a massive shadow, like a huge tower jutting out of the see directly in their path, and getting close very rapidly.

"HARD TO STARBOARD!!!" Jeff shrieked.

Molly threw the helm all the way to the right, yet this had little effect, as the ship's sails were down and the momentum of the waves were carrying her straight toward the mass.

"We're gonna crash!" Killroy exclaimed.

"WE'RE ALL GONNA DIE!!!" Gideon screamed, before running back below deck.

Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 07 2021, 03:37 PM
Melvyn looked down at his compass, then back up at Gideon, "Wrong again Mr. Gideon. That comes much later!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jan 07 2021, 03:39 PM
"DROP ACHOR!!!" Broose shouted as he hurried to pull the lever.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 07 2021, 03:46 PM
"Nay, wait, ya'll wreck the---!" Jeff protested.

Broose managed to pull the lever and drop the anchor, which promptly caught on a rock and caused the entire ship to jerk hard to the left, throwing the whole crew off their feet.

Then there was a massive crack of wood and steel, and suddenly entire anchor pulley tore right out of the ship and fell into the sea.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jan 07 2021, 03:55 PM
"Uh...Oops!..." Broose said meekly.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 07 2021, 05:16 PM
"Why do we even have that lever!" Finnbarr sighed.

Luetenberger then suddenly appeared on deck, and gazed out at the sight before him, "Cap'm Jeff? I think it's raining!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 07 2021, 05:31 PM
"Oh, why thank ya for that bit of information, Mister Luetenberger... at least SOMEONE IS COMMUNICATING THE SITUATION TO ME!" Jeff bellowed.

"Brace for impact!" Molly suddenly shouted, turning hard on the helm again as the ship rapidly approached the dark mass ahead of them.

Despite the damage it had caused, Broose's efforts with the anchor had actually slowed the ship enough to prevent the impact from occurring at full speed. Nonetheless, the crew were suddenly jolted from their feet once again, as the ship was hurled upon the rocks...


Dawn...

The night was long and harsh, as the ship was battered against the steep stone cliffs again and again, and the rain and winds threatened to throw unwary crewmen overboard. Yet, the storm slowly subsided, and those on deck eventually collapsed in exhaustion and most eventually fell asleep.

When the sun finally rose, it began the dry the cold, wet sailors on the deck, and at last the rain and fog were gone so that the surroundings could be seen. Jeff stood up from a pile of rigging rope he had lied down on, noticing first and foremost that he was not dead. The second thing he noticed was the ship was not swaying in the ocean waves, but was deathly still.

"What in the blue hell?" he furrowed his brows, before rushing to the railing and looking down, "By thunder! WHO DROVE MY SHIP UP A MOUNTAIN!?!"

Indeed, the vessel was resting on a rocky ledge a few dozen feet above sea level, and was not touching the water in any way. On one side of the ledge, a sheer cliff of black stone rose high above them, and the ship was partially propped against it.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: DeadJim on Jan 07 2021, 05:36 PM
"Drat!" Finnbarr said as he stood up and observed the scene, "This is what happens when you loose the anchor!"
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Tyler294 on Jan 07 2021, 06:00 PM
"We're not dead though. That be good, right?" Killroy suggested.

"Aye, but we're stranded on some blasted island in the middle of nowhere, with a damaged ship and no sign of civilization from which to get repairs!" Jeff growled.

"Ahoy, cap'n!" Molly called down from the helm.

"WHAT!?"

Molly responded by simply pointing up.

Jeff turned around and looked up the cliff, and up, and up, and nearly fell on his back again when he realized what was there. Towering over them, built into and on top of the unnaturally smooth rocky cliffs, was a towering fortress of dark stone. It's lowest ramparts were nearly a hundred feet above them, and what appeared to be a central tower rose even higher than that.
Title: Age of Retribution Part IV: The Gauntlet of Izabran
Post by: Shawnex on Jan 07 2021, 07:29 PM
Prince Carder waked up out of the hatch below deck and looked all around to sailors lying down and a huge rock cliff.

"What is all this?" he asked, "First I came aboard on this, surrounded by silly sailors, having a rough ride falling backwards and forwards, now we crashed in front of cliff?!?"