• Closed • [Sweetsong] The Sweet Song of Pirate Doom

[Kisaik]

Theme

Their adventure having concluded as it did, Kisaik and Winston decided not to linger at Saoire's School a trial longer, but to make for Sweetsong as they arrived in the night. It was difficult enough to make heads or tails of the time of day in Cylus, given that the suns were always down, but Kisaik and Winston were feeling quite energetic. As they emerged from the portal into Saoire's Dream, along withi Aquarius, Chest, and of course Angela and perhaps a few other passengers within Chest, they decided not to disembark here, but to bid Saoire a fair hello and hearty thanks, and a promise to start on the turtle quest post haste and immediately.

Thus they were on their way, and it took a few trials from then to make it all the way back to Sweetsong. When they did, however, Kisaik thought he saw something, there out on the water, a strange shape that stood out from the calm waves. He squinted, and as he gazed at such a distance, his eyes gleamed with the magic of rupturing. This didn't give him supernatural sight or any such thing, but as he drew closer to the shore-line of Sweetsong, he knew what they were. They were ships, all painted black in the moonlight, their sails black too.

"Hmmm, Winston?" Kisaik said over his shoulder, as his friend rested atop Chest. "I don't think those ships out there mean good business... No honest person pays a visit wearing all black, you know? We should tell the people of Sweetsong! I'm afraid they might be pirates..."

So saying, he flew low with Aquarius, just atop the tree-line, so they wouldn't be able to spot him from their place on the water.

Soon enough they arrived within sight of the Sweetstone Tree, and there, Kisaik made his landing, amidst the snow-covered ground. It appeared they'd had quite a storm, as some snow was left over on the ground. While Kisaik was used to the cold being this far north, it appeared a good deal harsher than usual. At any rate, there were tents erected not far from Sweetstone, and there is where Kisaik rode Aquarius. He made some barren vines grow from the ground nonetheless, to form a make-shift ramp for Chest and Winston and Chest's occupants. "Go on, and let Vega know we're here. Also, if you could... Keep everyone safe. Chest will make a good shelter if they mean to attack."

Kisaik nodded to Winston, bidding him to exit the saddle. Before he left, though, Kisaik took a pin off of his cloak. It was a turtle pin, brilliantly beautiful jade piece, from Saoire herself. "This broach will protect you. It will send no more than two attacks back to the one delivering them. I want you to borrow it, and use it to protect anyone from those who come after you. Remember, two attacks will return to the attacker. Make them count. Let Vega know that my people will guard the tree if they are so roused to do so. Otherwise, do anythinig as Lady Vega instructs you to do."

That last bit said, he handed the broach over to Winston, and saluted him.

Once Winston was safely off of the Dragonling, Kisaik didn't wait around, but reared up into the sky, to seek out these villains who would dare trespass against Sweetsong.

[Winston]

They are not hear to sing a shanty.

Saiore's Dream was like an elixir to the young Cadouri. Yaralon was behind them and he pressed his feet into the floor as if to affirm it still existed only because he did so. The stress of that rather unpleasant place washed away from him. There was a heavy anticipation to their return and not a short journey ahead of them still and so, after a short visit to drop off some gifts to

Saiore and Faith from Yaralon

, they set back out to Sweetwine.

As he had before, he skipped through the halls with his friends to where they would take flight to return to their home.

As Kisaik noticed the ships, Winston was none the wiser, even when Kisaik pointed them out, it was very much black stuff on other black stuff. However, as always, his faith in Kisaik was absolute and so he took every word as lore. "Pirates? Nuh, mun. Dem nat 'ere tuh sing shanties." He squinted into the dark, looking for a flag with scull and cross-bones, but there was none to be seen. "Yuh, mun. Vega will givem 'ell wid yuh."

As they swooped low, Winston held on tight and watched as Kisaik hugged the canopy for cover.

As they landed and Kisaik gave his instructions, Winston nodded. "Raja dat." He took off his

Bag of Holding

and handed it to Kisaik. "Take dis. Yuh need anyting, jost shout an' Chest will send et out. Saiore protect yuh." He was certain that should action be required, carful was probably not how Sir Chip would be described... Heroic, yes, but careful likely not.

There was a nervousness growing inside him...

The Devil on My Shoulder
Curiosity: Is this really happening?
Winston: Don't tink an et to much, just focus an getting tuh de camp.
Curiosity: Yeah, but what if they actually attack?
Winston: Vega. Kasaik. Vengeful, fearful death from above.
Curiosity: That's not very pacifistic of you.
Winston: Et won't be me doin' et.
Curiosity: That feels like pacifism by convenience.
Winston: Reality es, ef de es 'ere tuh take in de sights, den dem will be fine. Sir Chip 'as gud instincts douh an' we will falla dem.

As he made his way into the main camp, people were already moving around.

There was a general purpose to it as well

. As he spotted her, he called out. "Vega!..." He scampered over. The woman was obviously busy and the atmosphere of the camp and its leader was supporting the concerns Kisaik had shared with him.

He didn't waste any of Vega's time with pleasantries beyond a quick hello. "'ello. Pirates? Kisaik es back at de Sweetstone Tree. Where duh yuh need meh? Me an' Chest cun take an anyone dat needs a place tuh stay an' we will keep dem safe." He said, patting Chest on the lid with determination.

In truth, the churny feeling in his belly was still there, but being in Vega's presence, helped quell it.

[Jasper]

Jaspers Stats
6 Feet 3 Inches
205 pounds
Brown Hair
Brown Eyes
Scares on Right Arm
Tattoo on Left Arm - Matches scares
Moon Tattoo on Left palm
Sun Tattoo Right palm

No One Think About The Anoks

This Cylus was exciting. Snow storms, babies, and general darkness where just a taste of the season. Jasper was actually awake at that hour having been awaken by various discomforts. He actually had been sitting there watching others, Cylus seemed to have affected everyone’s sleep schedule. The lack of the suns made it hard to keep the sleeping and waking cycles straight. It was as he sat there that his Aesir training began to nag at him. He could feel anoks becoming active. Jasper closed his eyes trying to figure out what type of anoks were coming out in such numbers. It wasn’t like the snow Anoks which had come in by the legions. Not this was a concentration of them. He was positive it wasn’t more snow Anoks but what was it?

He slipped into the meditative trance that all Aesir practiced to learn more about the spirit world. It took his a moment, but he could detect that they were Anoks of violence. His eyes snapped open and going wide. While the numbers of Anoks wasn’t large, violence Anoks gathered together in those numbers just didn’t happen in nature. In addition to there numbers the Anoks seemed eager, so concentrated was it that the echos of it was coming to the Aesir. Jasper stood up and then. They were all in the communal tent still so it wasn’t hard. He looked at his family and said. “Something is coming. Make sure your awake, and for now quietly get ready.”

Jasper grabbed his cloak and while not putting it on yet he moved within the communal tent to find Vega. Once he found her, he politely but firmly whispered to her. “Something is coming, something that has drawn Anoks that are attuned to Violence.” The young man said calmly despite his agitation. “I couldn’t say what is drawing them, but we should certainly check and I think start some preparations.” Jasper stepped back to see what Vega said. He didn’t expect her to just take his word for it, even he know that it wasn’t a lot of information, and frankly the Aesir connection to the spirits was a bit alien to other people.

Even as he talked his family began took his word seriously. Bryil strung his bow while Rewan helped make sure Astra had what she needed, then he would nip out to get Lanquin ready for what ever might be coming.. Dasjat was actually with the other Tuwana at that moment so hadn't heard the warning.

Passive Active Effects

Spirit Meld-When near a spirit, can mental sense its emotions.
Spirit Sight-Perceive all spiritual forms within a ten foot proximity.
Rupturing-Detect all motions within 10ft.

Post Specific Effects

~NPC~

Astra

Rewan

Bryil

Eldloga

Dasjat

Lanquin

[/quote]

[Vega]

Pirate Attack: Sweetsong: Cylus 723

"Knickers"

Vega looked at the darkness of the night and she felt a strange and - for her - quite unusual emotion. Trepidation. Fear, even. Well, she couldn't let that happen, so she and told herself plainly that this was no different than Storm's Edge. Except it was different, but only in good ways. Because she was much better at this than she had been back then, and because this was their place. More than that, she had been playing her fiddle just that evening - as she did every evening - and the flag flew above them.

There were three big, black, gnarly looking ships and they were travelling and holding the darkness to them like a cloak of protection. Vega didn't know if they were coming to Sweetsong or not but, frankly, that didn't matter to her. As soon as they spotted them, Vega wrote in her Echo Scroll; but not a normal Echo Scroll, not at all. This was the one which was linked to Kura, to Darius and Elisabeth and Zoro and Hart and all those people who had been involved in the Forging and who had scrolls, each one of them, connected to this one.

Of course, it had been given to them to contact them about Joy - and for them to get in touch with her about Joy. But frankly, Vega thought, they could tell her off for it later.

Hi,

There are three big black ships what are travellin in the cover of darkness towards us. They are large, they look wrong. I don't know wat they are, I don't know if it's bad but it looks bad. Check the shore lines, make sure that yore people are safe. Contact me if you need help.

Kura, get the water elements out. I've got a bad feelin they're looking nasty.

Vega

Vega knew that there might be a situation here and, if there was, then there were people here that she had to get safe. She had a responsibility. So, she called together a few of the members of Sweetsong, the people who she knew would both keep their head and would be useful. And, of course, she called on her family. "I don't know it for sure, but there's some gnarly lookin' ships out there. I want to prepare. So, I want us to set up traps an' protection." She looked at them and then started doing what she did best. She got bossy.

"The most defensible place is here, in the woods in this clearin'," she said. "An' right now, we're goin' to get prepared. So we're callin' that place Safehome." First, she turned to look at

Sam, their resident animal expert.

"Sam, I want you an' Sally to secure the animals. If there is an attack, I don't want them scared. Any what we can use an' won't get spooked an' run, we will use them. If not, though, get them in to Safehome an' get them hunkered down."

Then, she looked at

Tovan

and she smiled slightly. "Any alchemy you can do, anythin' that you can do to prepare for an' scare or protect or defend. Please do that. " She knew that she was better off simply giving him free reign, and so she did. "But talk to me an' let me know. Right, next is you, Flo," she said, turning to

Flo

. "I want you to be in charge of morale, of lookin' after people. It's what you do well. I need people not to panic. An' also, I want

Charles

to work with

Gilna

and

Starr

on those traps." Flo nodded and she had a question in her eyes, but Vega answered it. "My plan is that it never gets to Safehome. But Tomas can be part of the protectin' of Safehome. It'll give her somethin' to do, but keep her away from any real fightin'."

She organised the moving of food supplies and blankets into trunks and bags, making sure that Safehome was as safe as it could possibly be. "We'll have a bit of time once we know a little more, so I don't want to wake anyone else yet." Vega spoke to all of them. "Get the animals safe, get the people safe. make traps an' give us every advantage we can have.. Any an' every resource you need, jus' let me know. I'll do it. I'll get it somehow."

Vega turned then to her family. "

Madam Leona,

I need you lookin' after the children." The dire lioness nodded her head. "I know you don't need me to tell you how important a job that is, an' so please, jus'....". Vega was still reeling from the death of her father and the emotion of this was more than she could vocalise. Madam Leona nodded her head. "I've got it, Vega," she said and that was all that needed saying.

In this moment, more than anything, she wanted to make sure that people were safe. But then, there was a noise and, Turning to look at Jasper, who had literally just walked up, Vega listened to his words and she nodded.

"Right, so we've got a situation," she said. She laid out what she had done already to him and she spoke calmly, rationally. Then, she closed her eyes for a moment. "Damnit. I'm bein' stupid an' not thinkin'," she said. And then, Vega called on

Jeff,

her Songforged diri. "Jeff," she said. "There's a problem. An' right now I have to protect Sweetsong. All of Sweetsong. So as much as I know you are here with me, an' I appreciate that, Jeff I need you to warn Sweetwine Induk." she said. Jeff looked at her sadly, and he started to cry. "I don't want it to be true, Jeff, but it might be the most importan' job of anyone. Can you do that? Can you be brave an' do that?"

Jeff said nothing, but Vega smiled as he agreed in her mind and then he disappeared. From that moment on, every movement Vega did was moved in a dance. She danced when she walked and she danced when she stood still. It was strange, how that happened. Because very quietly, the music that she heard in her mind playedWhen she wears them, they appear to be normal shoes - however - whenever she dances, the music that she is hearing in her head / imagining is heard, playing for all. This can be very quiet or up to the volume of a full orchestra - depending on what Vega is imagining in her mind.

Upon hearing the music play - which continues as long as Vega is dancing - those who are allied to her are afforded a boost. In order to be affected by this they must be allied with her, AND be working towards a common goal. If that is the case, then she and her allies will find themselves surrounded by an individual armour which functions as full plate, but is weighless, totally flexible and invisible to the naked eye other than a ripple of air waves which it is, in fact, made up from. "As long as I keep dancin', everyone will have weightless armour," she explained. And, fortunately, she could danceAll-Dance
For Vega, dance is many things. It is worship, it is celebration and it is a means of expressing herself through music. With this capstone, Vega is able to dance while performing any other skill - within the boundaries of what is physically possible, she can dance. Neither skill is impacted, no matter how difficult it is for her to dance. As long as it is physically possible for her to move her body, she is able to use the full extent of her dance skill with any other. here all the time, no matter what she did.

Vega turned back to Jasper. "Any an' all help that you can be, it'll be very gratefully received." She looked at him and her gaze was serious and calm. "We need to start gettin' people safe. Can you an' your family take people up, an' get them focused." She looked at Jasper, calmly. "We need to keep them focused, Jasper. Let me know if you need help with that. It's importan'."

With a bit of luck, Vega thought, the fact that they had somewhere to go - a place to get to - would mean that they were focused on getting there. She hoped and believed it, completely. Also, of course, she would be there, chivvying people along and being loud and the focus for them. Because that was what she needed to do. No panics here if she could help it. More than that, she made sure that anyone who she thought was likely to panic, had a job. "Come on then, we've got some folks driftin' in their big dreary an' oh-so-scary ships, an' we're bein' safe. Come on, that's it," she said, helping them to focus.

And then, there was Winston. Vega turned to look at him and she saw him. She really, genuinely, saw him. He was terrified. Jasper was far from chipper too. They needed her to step up, to be what they needed her to be. Just like in Storm's Edge.

So, Vega did what she needed to do.

"Righ', so we've got the big an' scary out there an' they're floatin' turds," she said. Looking at the two of them - and her cousins - Vega stepped into the role. As she did, she wished that Arlo was there. That he'd be here and see straight through her. That he'd look at her and he'd know that she was being brave and he would see her. Just see her.

But he wasn't here, so she did what she had to.

"A'right. So, far as I know," she said, "Those flags are Pirate Lord flags. An' we need to be prepared for a fight. Winston, I want you to be in charge of gettin' people safe. Chest can take people in?" He told her that Chest could and Vega's mind ticked over. "I need to know that the people are safe, Winston, an' I can't trust anyone more than I trust you." Vega's gaze on him was earnest and honest and she spoke to him firmly. "Winston, while you were gone, there were snowstorms an' my Papa he died. I need to save these people. So this is what I'm goin' to do." She reached into her bag and she pulled out a small stone horse. "This will take up to five children into a place where no one - no one at all - can enter. No one except me. No pirates, no one. But they can take things in with them an' I know Chest, I know you're not a thing, but if Chest takes in all the people, an' then Joy takes Chest in to Sweetsong Sails, no one can harm them. Please, Winston, will you do that? Will you get the people get into Chest, an' then activate this an' get Joy to take Chest in there?"

That way, Vega knew that the people of Sweetsong would be safe. But she put a hand on Winston's arm. "Anyone who wants to fight, they can - but only if they can fight, Winston. We don't need anyone killin' themselves." Yet, there wa sno doubt in her mind. She would die to protect this place.

"Snaffle. Take Martha an' drop this at the right moment," she said. Her body weight in molten metal was easy enough to create, and she did so on Martha, the Kaldvind. She tied it in such a way that Snuffle could easily untie it."Take no risks, dodge anythin' what aims at you, an' when you're done, come back.". She looked at Snuffle and Martha and the two of them took off. Then, she turned to Jasper and she handed him a ringA malorite ring which, twice a season (four times a cycle) Vega can activate and it will create a circular barrier - at Vega's chest height - of what seems to be malorite, but is in fact some kind of energy. This shield is impenetrable to all but the most powerful attacks and is the equivalent of being a two-foot thick wall of metal in terms of physical defence. Magic and marks below Champion or Revealed do not work against it. and will last as long as Vega stands. No magic or attacks can be cast out of it and Vega (or whoever is wearing / activating the ring) has to keep the ring perfectly still or cracks in the defence will appear. It can be as close as 2 ft away from her, or as far as 150 foot away.. "It will make a wall. A wall of protection. Give it to someone who you trust, an' keep people safe here. "

And as the offensive power of the ships heading in to Sweetsong became apparent, Vega summoned the star dragonThe Dragon - A Great flying reptile, formed of starlight, lands before the Blessed and flies them and one passenger to any destination at a tenth of the travel time. This only applies to long-term travel. In stressful situations, it has the base speed of any flying mount, and the same applies to the Brux. Neither rider can be knocked from its saddle or otherwise disturbed, even by the swiftness and agility of its aerial maneuvers. Damage does not "kill" the beast, but like "The Galleon", enough damage will cause the entity to shrink until it will no longer be able to support its riders. This entity does not engage in direct combat with other creatures, but can use its immense strength to do simple tasks, like pulling and pushing large objects for purposes that are strictly non-hostile. This entity can only be summoned once per season. and she sent it after the head ship. Then, right in front - and she meant right in front of - the lead ship, Vega summoned a wall of fogOnce a day, the Blessed can call up a fog that hardens into an impenetrable wall. It lasts for as many bits as the Blessed has Nalos abilities, minus those already "spent" that day. Climbing it requires a Climb skill of 50+, with a Resistance of less than 50 resulting in weakness that halves appropriate skills for the remainder of that same trial. Digging beneath its impenetrable roots takes longer and has the same possible "Resistance"-based backlash. Flying characters are not affected.

The other ships? She did her best there to destroy their moraleThe Blessed brings clouds overhead to create a dusk-like atmosphere that strips the morale from enemies over a broad area. Those of only Novice Discipline or Resistance throw down their weapons and run or surrender. Competent level enemies back away, promising no aggression. Expert level enemies stand their ground, but do nothing unless attacked. Master or higher are unaffected, but will probably reconsider any aggressive act if many of their support troops are demoralized. but, first, over the area where the other two ships were? She did her best to paralyse themhe cold of the void between the stars infuses this ground-level cloud with a near paralyzing cold. Joints grow stiff, hands grow numb on weapons, movements and communications are hindered by shivering, weapons and armor may become brittle. This has essentially the same game impact as "Eyes of Dusk", but is an Area-of-Effect power that covers 100 sq.ft. At Adored, it covers 200 sq.ft. At Exalted, it covers 300 sq.ft. The Blessed is unaffected by this cloud. After all - every balista needed someone to work it.

Actions

1. She sees the ships and sends a letter.

2. Then, she goes to the maps they've been making and she finds the place that is most defensible. She does that using this cappie (I've bolded the important bit)
In any given situation she is able to use the environment to give her maximum tactical advantage and to disrupt the enemy. Obviously, this will be dependent on the context and the time Vega has. When she has time to plan and prepare, she is able to prepare defences / sentries which provide absolute coverage of an area and also identify the most efficient places to put traps and alarms so that a surprise attack is near to impossible to achieve. In the heat of the moment, she can find the single most useful spot to stage an attack, or how the environment can be used to weaken an enemy's defences. The environmental context becomes a fundamental part of Vega's tactical arsenal here, and she uses it like a resource which both strengthens her position and weakens that of her enemy. She can, in the moment, make such changes and adjustments as necessary to make the landscape as favourable to her side as it can be.

3. She organises people to get the animals safe and the people safe, and to get traps set up around the place and to have alchemy attacks and defences.
This tactics capstone takes this ability and hones it to the point where she can create tactical advantage seemingly out of nothing. Should she be in a situation where she needs a wall built, or a pallisade constructed, she can scavenge what is needed from the environment and make it work. These "scavenged" constructions are - by virtue of this capstone - as effective as if she had all the resources needed. Of course, being able to get the resources doesn't mean that Vega can build thing - that requires the engineering skill but, with this capstone, she provides the resources even when none, seemingly, exist. The quality of the construction is partly dependent on the skill of the person actually building it but, due to the flimsy and sometimes downright odd nature of the parts, can not be at a quality level higher than average.

4.Jasper turns up. This reminds her of something important. She sends Jeff to let the Sweetwine Induk about the attacks.

5. Vega uses her capstone to make sure people don't panic as they get themselves to the safe place.
Vega is a fundamentally hopeful person and, by virtue of that, she allows, expects, and demands, that others are hopeful too. Psychological theory is clear - people feel hopeful (or not) about themselves, the world, the future. The more of these one can feel hopeful and positive about - the better one feels. Vega understands that tiny shreds of hope are vital to people and she can find and exploit them even in the darkest situations. From ridiculous names for terrifying creatures, to being able to make things comfortable when previously they had been hopeless, people feel better when Vega is there. Her presence means that people feel hopeful about the world, about the future - and about themselves and therefore work harder and more cohesively. This promotes a sense of common purpose and a shared identity - akin to a biqaj clan. Mechanically, this means that any "clan-like" situation Vega is in (examples from play include the Lightning Knights, the Wardens of Lovalus, the Settlement of Hopetoun) simply functions in a more orderly and communal manner. People are cohesive and friendly, and they function as a group.

6. Then, it's lotso powers, ordering folks around and attacking the ships. There's lots of conditionals already there, so thought I'd best leave it there. But big walls of fog, walls, terrified folks, etc. Hopefully. And Martha dropping lead on the ships . Also - Jasper (or one of his NPCs) having the ring of protection - this is big stuff. Hopefully. erp.

Buffs

Everyone
Gets the armour from her dancing and hears quiet music.

Everyone except Winston and Kisaik - bond together as per the Qylios mark
Following on from her capstone, this ability allows Vega to effective 'buff' a group who hear her play. So inspiring is her music that, when she is attempting to instill any emotion linked with the Domains of Xiur or Qylios, she gives them the ability to fight together, as though they are bonded as per the Qylios mark. Whole groups can function together, fighting as one with each individual having full knowledge of what is going on in the battle. All of the people who are bonded in this way must have heard Vega play at the same time, and within the last trial. This applies to herself, as well.

Everyone except Winston and Kisaik + 1 level on a skill appropriate to what they're doing.
She can play and, when she plays, it gives a boost to the skills of those who hear it. When Vega focuses on a group and actively uses this ability - she is able to inspire them to be the very best version of themselves. Any and all who are in the room / area where she plays (so not someone that hears it in passing, they have to be listening) have a +1 level bonus on a non-magic skill for the next trial (so, novice becomes competent, competent becomes expert etc). This skill will be directly linked to the focus Vega has so - if it is in a camp preparing for battle, for the soldiers it will be a combat skill - but the cook for that camp would gain a bonus to cooking for the troops. No more than one bonus per day can be given.

Everyone + 2 levels in a skill of their choice - OR - 50% more efficient.
The impact on those in the area is that they have a shared sense of identity, of community, and they work together better. There is less conflict, more co-operation and people are, basically, happier, more hopeful and getting on better. This translates to a drive to get on and work and impacts PCs and NPCs thus:

NPCs: Learn and develop skills more quickly. In the case of personal NPCs, once they have met the criteria for skill improvement, rather than 10 points per season, they gain 15. City NPCs who are used in the same way (2 x threads per season) may also be improved in this way, with moderator approval.

PCs: PCs who are working towards the goal of the clan are given more support, more help. Things happen quicker and more efficiently for that reason. PCs who are actively using skills which benefit the "clan" and are doing so with NPCs / PCs of the "clan" - may assume that the task is less difficult and by everything going smoothly and people helping, everything falls together more easily. This allows the task to be easier / a stroke of luck /teamwork to mean that the task is completed in 50% of the time OR to 2 levels higher a standard than they could otherwise achieve.

[Kisaik]

Discretion is the Better Half of Valour

The dragonling stirred as it took off. Kisaik only glimpsed at the ships, now seeing them closer than before, he could tell they were not as small as he'd originally envisioned. They were warships! "Hmmm... Perhaps... I don't think we can handle them alone, Aquarius. It might be better to work together."

Saying this, he turned on his tail and began doubling back toward the Sweetstone tree.

He had to ensure that they were prepared, and then he'd decide his next move.



A bit or two later he arrived at the tree, seeing more of infrastructure and camps centralized around the tree. He only had a moment to wonder at this, before landing Aquarius in a nearby clearing. Then he blinked, as fast as he could toward the tree, where he knew his tribe would be holing up.

Once inside the central shelter, he sought out Ce'nija. She was helping Aida to melt some snow for drinking water, or some other purpose, he couldn't tell. He didn't ask. "Ce'nija! We have a problem. Pirates on the horizon, I need you and every blowgun on the branches of Sweetstone, with poisoned darts..."

"Pirates! Oh my, not the dashing and handsome kind?" Aida said, sighing naively.

Kisaik frowned at her, "No, these are the ugly murdering and fire-starting kind... Not the type to take lightly."

"M...murdering?" Aida said, sappy and fearful tears beginning to form at the corners of her eyes. "Oh no! Where is my Winsty Poo!?"

"I left him to seek out Vega. But Ce'nija...." Kisaik turned to the wise-woman of his tribe. "I have a bag that can summon things at a need. It's very important and valuable, and must not fall into the wrong hands. Will you stand and defend Sweetstone with our warriors?"

Ce'nija looked at the bag, took it and nodded. "Yes, Kisaik. We'll stand and defend the tree. But where will you go?"

Kisaik thought a moment. He knew he couldn't take three warships on his own, dragonling or no. He'd barely survived the encounter with a squad of Aukari himself with little help. No, he'd need everyone in Sweetstone, just as they'd need him. He discarded his selfish urge to glory, and embraced the heroism that was needed at the moment.

Discretion here was probably the better half of valour. "I will join with Vega and the others in the defense! She will know what to do."

So saying, Kisaik saluted Ce'nija, then turned to Aida. "Aida, come with me, and I'll bring you to safety. You're no fighter."

"Oh! Thank you! How dashing of you." Aida said, and then hopped and daintily climbed aboard the saddle of Aquarius. "Bring me to Winsty Pooh!"

Kisaik hid the cringe that threatened to cross his wooden face, at the nickname, but nevertheless brought her into the skies, and began flying toward the central command, where he spotted Vega, Jasper, and a few others.

He landed in their midst, and from Aquarius' saddle, he let down Aida. "Vega! I trust Winston passed word to you about the pirates? I've instructed my tribe to make ready for defense of Sweetstone. They will make use of their blowguns and poisons. But first... Where's Winston? Aida needs to be brought to safety as she's no fighter."

He waited for Vega's instructions on this matter, safely atop Aquarius, lest she thump him for hesitating to meet her first.

[Winston]

Safety is a box called Chest

As Vega told him of her loss, there was a moment, just the briefest of moments that he let shock cross his face, but now was not the time and as Vega moved on, her resolve washed away what neither of them, or any of the others gathered around them needed to deal with right now.

As she issued her commands, he nodded and eventually gave a salute, as was his way. They had shared moments like this already and so there should be no doubt in her mind that despite the levity he deployed to deal with the situation, it was his life before theirs that would go if there was a need even for a split second. "Eye, we cun do dis." He replied with absolute certainty. "You 'ave noting to worry about 'ere Vega. You do you an' come back safe. Saiore protect yuh." He expected that her own safety was low on her list of priorities right now, but he was not letting her go off without saying it.

As she moved on to the next in line, Jasper, Winston went about his work. He took off his

Locket

and wrapped it around one of Chest's handles repeatedly before doing it back up again to ensure it was secure. "Dis will keep yuh safe, alright? Naw gimmy me sign, please..."

He then heard Kisaik's voice. "Ova 'ere!... Ah, Aida! Cum on, cum inside chest. We are gonna keep yuh safe." If Aida's exuberance overflowed as usual, he would do his best to simply get her into Chest as he carried on his work with the sign. "Me will be in soon, bot me cannat come en, ef yuh do nat go en first. Naw go and yuh do as Angela asks, please."

"Jaspa!" He waved for the man to notice him. "Get anyone dat needs sancutarry in 'ere. We will be 'ere. OK?!"

When Vega summoned her Star Dragon, he could not help but pause for a moment...

The Devil on My Shoulder
Curiosity: OMG, this is it, we are going to be part of an epic battle!
Winston: Dere goes an 'ero.
Curiosity: What if we die?
Winston: We don't 'ave time far dat and et didnt' slow Shinwa down moch.
Curiosity: Fair point. Does he still need to do poopies?
Winston: Me don't TINK so.
Curiosity: Go on, ask him.
Winston: No.

As Vega took off, Winston let out a cheer. It was going to be good for Vega to hear the raw, good for Winston to let it out and if he could encourage it in others,

good for everyone to bolster their spirits

.

He then drew upon the sign, which tucked into the other handle on the side of chest and usually advertised his workshop, the words...

Sanctuary Here

He then started shouting and ushering people into Chest as Angela popped her head up. "What can I do?" Her eyes were wild still and desperate for purpose. "We are safety. We are tranquility. Me need yuh to take charge in dare and keep people calm and settled, OK?" Anglea nodded and then paused. "You are coming in right?" Winston could not lie, it was not in him, so he simply told her the only thing he knew. "Dat's de plan." With that, the girl vanished in to the chest

to start to show people around and keep them in order.

Between her an

Shinwa

, the people inside Chest would be well looked after.

Winston collected all the Children, making explicitly certain she had Vega's and then absolutely anyone else that wanted out of harm's way. Anyone that asked was told that "Chest es next tuh indestructible. Notin' cun hurt yuh inside and no one will attack 'im."

He didn't stop people bringing what they could or already were carrying with them into Chest, there was plenty of room, however there wasn't time to save everything and so he grabbed someone by the leg. "C'mman! Tis nat wort' yuh life mun. Get in!"

Winston ducked into Chest to speak to Shinwa, whom was already rushing around and offering food and drinks to everyone. The inside of Chest had changed again. There was an enormous hall to one side now, where people were congregating, but Winston didn't have time to marvel at this right now.

He waved down Angela and Shinwa. "Dis es important. Anyone dat comes en trough dat dar most be welcome." The butler looked insulted for a moment, as if there could be any other possibility under his care. "But of course, sir."

"No Shinwa. I mean ANYONE, no matter which side dey are an, ef dey walk en dat door, dem es en sanctuary. Gat et? Every life inside Chest cud depend an dis fact. OK?" Understanding dawned on the mans face and the both of them nodded.

Winston gave them another quick nod and then headed back out into the hall, closing the door behind him and then peeped out of Chest to see what was going on.

Mod Review Please: Chest's Defensive Advantages

• Chest is resistant to damage and magic generally (not immune of course), but is considered during write up to be almost indestructible (able to regenerate from near complete destruction).
• Chest heals damage fast.
• The inerio of Chest is largely speaking not affected by the outside.
• Most important gambit! - The locket I have attached to chest has this permanent charm on it:
  
  Pass Unnoticed - Level: Favoured
  Based uppong "Pass Unnoticed - Level: Favored" from here.
  Activation: This is a passive ability that is simple active while wearing the locket.
  Power Description: Neutrality is a wonderful thing. It allows merchants to trade in war zones, generally to both sides. It lets the banker enforce peace and calm in his bank. It allows the glass maker to create beautiful works of art while the world rages around them. This ability takes that to an extreme, however, as it allows the wearer to pass through any conflict without either side noticing them. However, this ability only works so long as the wearer remains absolutely neutral. Favoring a side of a conflict will render this ability null. It also doesn't prevent the wearer from any of the side effects of a conflict, such as thrown pots, boiling oil, or stray arrows.
  
  So Winston intends to offer GENUINE sanctuary to ANYONE, pirate or otherwise, that wishes to take and honour it inside chest. As such, the pirates should ignore it completely, unless of course, they choose to seek shelter in peace.
  

[Jasper]

Jaspers Stats
6 Feet 3 Inches
205 pounds
Brown Hair
Brown Eyes
Scares on Right Arm
Tattoo on Left Arm - Matches scares
Moon Tattoo on Left palm
Sun Tattoo Right palm

No One Think About The Anoks

Jasper watched as everyone came to Vega. The Aesir watched as the young woman who was chieftain of the settlement took control of the situation. Jasper was pleased to hear that others had brought the warning ahead of Jasper. She was already instructing her family in what to do as they prepared for the approaching threat. Jasper nodded his head in approval and once again felt that it was a good idea that they settle down here. Jasper stayed back as directions were given. For the animals to be taken care of as well as the people. Jasper nodded his head in acceptance of his responsibility. Vega was directing the organization but she needed some actually among the people getting them going and ask Jasper and his family to do that.

He did rush away as directions were still being given. Warning the Induk of Sweetwine was a good idea. Jasper still wasn’t sure how loyal the Induk was to the people of the settlement but it was a good idea and only good could come of it. Jasper smiled a bit then as he saw Winston come charging up with the news. Again he nodded his head in approval there was a fine line between sharing with the chief and just dumping it all on them. People made sure she was aware which was important. Jasper felt relief when the decision to move none combatants into the chest which would offer more protection.

Vega reminded them that this wasn’t hopeless and showed her spunk and Jasper remembered his father and other clan head also showing similar spunk ever time the village was raided. He pulled himself up at that and his expression became resolved. This wasn’t hopeless. Jasper nodded and took the ring and explanation of what it was and how it worked. With firm steps he turned and jagged back to his family. There he looked at the and said. “We about to have a raid. Let’s get everyone ready. Astra, you and the babies are going into chest with Winston and the rest of the nine combatants.” With three babies on hand Astra didn’t argue. She was still recovering from the birth and while she was up and walking and feeding her little brood she knew she wasn’t in a position to fight if she didn’t have to. She ahead already collected what resources she felt she would need. Jasper looked at his brothers and Dasjat. “Let’s get the people moving. Dasjat. You can help gather people or go with the other Tuwana.”

“I will help the other Tuwana and I will also be here to help tend any wounded we have.” Dasjat said and grabbed Astra and his medical bags and dragged them to the Tree.

“Lanquin is saddle and ready. He has sensed the danger and is ready for battle.” Rewan said, Sleipnir we’re more aggressive then their regular horse kin. Like all equine creatures it was a heard animal. It had been with Jasper since birth and so Jasper and his family were his herd and he was willing to accept others in this community has herd members to. The Sleipnir defended their herds. Jasper nodded at his brother. “You and Bryil help collect everyone up and then I assume you will fight.”

Both men nodded their heads. So as instructed the Ardiechy collected the settlers. They had been through raids before so the approached it with a optimistic seriousness. Luckily the camp was centrally located so to the storm and everyone was gathered. So while Winston directed the people into the chest Jasper and his family got them to the chest. They helped them grab what could reasonable and usefully be grabbed.

Astra came forward as the children were being ushered in a baby on each side and Jasper brought for the last handing it to Flo to carry into the chest. “Glad your came back Winston. You are a spirit send” Astra said as she entered the chest. Jasper gentle put a hand on the ferrets shoulder and gave a companionable squeeze before walking away.

“Bryil I want you to collect the other archers and make sure the arrow stick is at hand and find the best places to ambush with arrows when they come to shore.” Bryil nodded his head and moved out round up the hunters and prepare for ambushes. He turned to Rewan and said. “You will need go with the other melee fighters. Take this ring and your group. Position yourself front and center on the beach to draw their attention. Use the ring to keep them from attacking you until either we can bring all our forces to bear our until they turn there back on you.” His brother nodded and took the ring. He walked away and started singing on of the ancient battle chants of there people. Jasper walked up to Lanquin and making sure his Cavani cloak was secure in place. He pulled himself up and secured himself into the saddle. Feeling the boost from Vega and feeling connected to her and others he could also feel Lanquin ready.

Jasper’s plan was very simple. At night and in the cold fire was critical. Jasper was attuned to fire. He would take off when other flyers took off so they would be working in sync with other flyers he moved forward. His focus wasn’t attacking people it was the flames. With his fire manipulations he did just that. He dodge the bolts that were being firing. He would adjust his elevation as necessary around Vega’s fog as he worked his main affect. As he approached if he found any bolts already lite he would increase the heat so intensely that the metal of the structure would begin to warp, and within the depths of the ship as he detected the flames from lanterns and such he would elevate their heat as hot as he could make it. He specifically had his mount dodge in and out and actually try to go to the less active sides of the ship while he tried to manipulate the flames.

Passive Active Effects

Spirit Meld-When near a spirit, can mental sense its emotions.
Spirit Sight-Perceive all spiritual forms within a ten foot proximity.
Rupturing-Detect all motions within 10ft.

Post Specific Effects

+2 Bonus to mount (master)
+1 bonus to unarmed (Expert)
Elemental Manipulation -Fire- Moderate: Jasper is now able to control a larger amount of fire, and at greater distances. They are now capable of controlling flames roughly the size of a large house fire, and at distances up to 100 feet out. At this level, Jasper is also able to change the heat of the fire, increasing it's temperature to those often found in forges, and it's color to a bright yellow. Metals subjected to this fire for enough time will begin to heat and eventually melt, unless protected in some way. The effective range of these hotter flames is equivalent to those of Minor Manipulations. Can wrest away the control of fire from expert Defier or below.

~NPC~

Astra

Rewan

Bryil

Eldloga

Dasjat

Lanquin

[Vega]

Pirate Attack: Sweetsong: Cylus 723

Vega glanced down at the Joy-Scroll and saw that there was a reply from Nir'wei. Vega didn't really know Nir'wei well, but she had to smile at the first bit. They liked him more than they liked her, indeed. Then, almost immediately came the reply from Darius. This was useful and helpful, but she recognised, immediately, that this was both a blessing and a curse, this scroll. She needed the information, but she couldn't be distracted from what she was doing.

So, she understood immediately what she had to do. She had to assign someone to be the point of contact, the person that communicated with everyone. Or, in fact, maybe not the person. "Hey, Noodle" Vega said and, immediately, the small

Diri of Utility

appeared. Vega handed him the Joy-Scroll and, in fact, every other Echo Scroll she had. They were all in her Domain Bag, in a bag together in there, so they were quick and easy to access. "You're assigned to Echo Scroll Duty. Anythin' that comes in, you read it to me, an' I'll tell you what to reply. Nice hat." she said.

"Send out a message to all on the Joy Scroll, please." she said. Noodle nodded and wrote and sent what Vega said. His handwriting was much neater, and his spelling better and Vega questioned one of the Sweetsingers in order to be clear on the information on the Pirate Lords that they were giving. The whole time that she did this, she danced and she played air-fiddle.

Nir'wei and Darius have reported in.

Nir'wei says
- six ships off the coast of Faldrass.
- they are setting fires too.
- Faldrass is cold.

Darius says
- Pirates sighted off the coast of Hopetoun
- Suggestion that they are in other places too.

No one else has checked in yet. We need confirmation that the Elements have been informed and to know what is happenin' there. More details from Faldrass would be good too. Are the six ships part of the HOpetoun sightin' or are there more? What's on fire? Keep information comin', where you can.

The ships attackin' us belong to Pirate Lords, apparently. They are:

The Unforgiven, captained by The Butcher.

The Gutripper, captained by The Boar

The Hopeless Dirge, captained by The Slaver.

We've damaged them, but they've got ranged canons and stuff and I'm going to kill them all. No, you don't need to write that you plonker. Oh, jus' send it!

Signed on behalf of Vega by her friend.

Noodle.
Diri of Usefulness and Good Hats.

They'd have to get used to it, she knew, but this would work. While she was dictating that note, Vega also made sure that people were getting into Chest. Winston was doing a fantastic job there and Vega smiled at him and nodded her head. She lifted her hand to her chin, touched her chin with the tips of her fingers and then let her hand dropped forward. [

Joy

touched Winston's arm and said "That's common sign for thank you. She says thank you."


Turning to Sian, who had walked up, Vega spoke quickly. "I want you in Chest, safe. You an' your useless twin," she said that to Sian, meaning Lily - her other cousin's wife. Twins marrying twins was a pain, Vega decided, but she knew that this was just her mind seeking escape. She understood that fear was a fearsome foe and that it would trick her into being distracted if it could. "You pair have a job, an' it's an important one. Keep up morale, help Astra with the children, an' don't get yourselves hurt" Sian and Lilly - who had run up as Vega spoke - both nodded and then got into Chest to where they would be safe.

"Well, I'm righ' glad to see you," Vega said, as Sir Chip came into view. He was her friend and his presence was very welcome to her. She listened to his words and nodded. "We'll keep them safe," she said. She looked again at Sir Chip and spoke to him, calmly enough - but he knew her well, and this was Vega in battle-mode. "Chest, where Winston is directin' people to, is safe. Probably one o' the safest places on Idalos right about now, so if any of your family want to go there, they should, Sir Chip. We'll defend the tree, with our blood and blades, as needed." Winston was doing what he was doing, Jasper was doing what he was. But Sir Chip was small. "Sir Chip, would you go up an' circle around the camp, inland? I don't want to be caught from behind, while we're lookin' this way."

The first wave of their attack was good. The fog bank went up and the cold hit them. That cut the threat down, but not enough. Not enough at all. Jasper was doing his job and the archers were ready, but Vega thought about what would happen when Jasper and she were flying out there, and she knew that she had to protect this place more. And then, she felt a hand on her shoulder. She didn't need to look to know who it was. It was

Escher.

Escher who had been Heartmourn. Escher who she had saved the first time she met Lovalus. She turned her head and glanced at him and he nodded.

Vega knew what she had to do. Lovalus had granted her this ability to protect people, all people. So, using the connection with her diris which spoke to Jaspers, she spoke. She included Sir Chip in this if he was back by now, which he probably was "Lets fly up. Prepare for a ..." and in her mind she described what she was about to do - "then watch on board and see how they respond. Keep me informed." She and Escher climbed onto Martha and she lifted up, also. For reasons she couldn't explain, Vega knew that Escher and she needed to be together for this and she was a good enough pilot of winged things to be able to keep him safe.

Granted to her by Lovalus, the Induk of Lake Lovalus, this power was something which she could only use once in a season. She called out to Lovalus, Escher's voice in unison with hers and then, as her eyes turned the same ice-blue as his, Vega controlled the water underneath the ships. She lifted two of the ships, funnelling the water upwards in two tall towers and then, she held them there. There was a part of her. A very big part of her, which wanted to simply drop the two ships on to their counterpart, but she did not. She held back and up in the air watching down on her settlement, her people that she was responsible for. In front of them, between them and the pirates, circled the star-dragon of Xiur which they could see through perfectly well, but which would protect them and Vega wanted - oh so badly - to take her anger out on the pirates, to just kill them all, now. She was quite sure she could.

Instead, she activated the Lion's locket and she used it's ability to make her voice roar five times as loudly, but remain crystal clear.

And she shouted to them. "Surrender immediately," she shouted to them. "I will not ask again!"

If there was any sign of one of the balista's being fired, if anyone looked like they were about to do something stupid, Vega would not hesitate. "To our people, I say hold our fire, unless they give us reason. If they give us reason, then don't hesitate because they're obviously too stupid to live."

Actions

1. She assigns her utility diri, noodle, to echo scroll duty.

2. She organises people more.

3. She sees that there''s issues and her high tactics means she suspects a trap. She asks Sir Chip to fly up and check we're not about to be ambushed from behind.

4. She uses a Lovalus-granted ability to literally control all the water in a 1-mile radius. The two ships which aren't stuck in a wall (hopefully that's happened this round) should now lift up into the air on towers of water. If anyone so much as looks at her funny, she'll literally drop them and smash them to bits.
The Warden for a time will find that their consciousness melds with the strange and wild mind of the Induk. For that one moment they will no longer be wholly mortal. The Wardens eyes will turn a bright icy blue and their skin will be radiant with power.

The Grand Warden may then control and manipulate any water within a mile of their position. They will also be capable of summoning a Brightgleam Oasis that is a mile wide and roughly two feet deep. The water summoned will heal the wounds of allies and additionally the Grand Warden can manipulate the water within it to entrap and drown enemies. here

5. She uses her lion locket to inform them that this is not fun and she's not enjoying it. She, Jasper and (hopefully) Sir Chip are flying up to keep an eye on those pesky pirates. And there's a star-dragon between us and them so no stray arrows find their way. ......

Also - things that didn't get dealt with last time, cos they took time.
1. The fog-wall in front of the ship and the morale-dropping ability
2. The dropping of a vega-heavy piece of solid metal from a height onto one of the ships - hoping to sink it
3. Jeff (Songforged Diri) going to chat to Induk Sweetwine, make sure he's ok / inform him etc.

Buffs

Everyone
Gets the armour from her dancing and hears quiet music.

Everyone - bond together as per the Qylios mark
Following on from her capstone, this ability allows Vega to effective 'buff' a group who hear her play. So inspiring is her music that, when she is attempting to instill any emotion linked with the Domains of Xiur or Qylios, she gives them the ability to fight together, as though they are bonded as per the Qylios mark. Whole groups can function together, fighting as one with each individual having full knowledge of what is going on in the battle. All of the people who are bonded in this way must have heard Vega play at the same time, and within the last trial. This applies to herself, as well.

Everyone + 1 level on a skill appropriate to what they're doing.
She can play and, when she plays, it gives a boost to the skills of those who hear it. When Vega focuses on a group and actively uses this ability - she is able to inspire them to be the very best version of themselves. Any and all who are in the room / area where she plays (so not someone that hears it in passing, they have to be listening) have a +1 level bonus on a non-magic skill for the next trial (so, novice becomes competent, competent becomes expert etc). This skill will be directly linked to the focus Vega has so - if it is in a camp preparing for battle, for the soldiers it will be a combat skill - but the cook for that camp would gain a bonus to cooking for the troops. No more than one bonus per day can be given.

Everyone + 2 levels in a skill of their choice - OR - 50% more efficient.
The impact on those in the area is that they have a shared sense of identity, of community, and they work together better. There is less conflict, more co-operation and people are, basically, happier, more hopeful and getting on better. This translates to a drive to get on and work and impacts PCs and NPCs thus:

NPCs: Learn and develop skills more quickly. In the case of personal NPCs, once they have met the criteria for skill improvement, rather than 10 points per season, they gain 15. City NPCs who are used in the same way (2 x threads per season) may also be improved in this way, with moderator approval.

PCs: PCs who are working towards the goal of the clan are given more support, more help. Things happen quicker and more efficiently for that reason. PCs who are actively using skills which benefit the "clan" and are doing so with NPCs / PCs of the "clan" - may assume that the task is less difficult and by everything going smoothly and people helping, everything falls together more easily. This allows the task to be easier / a stroke of luck /teamwork to mean that the task is completed in 50% of the time OR to 2 levels higher a standard than they could otherwise achieve.

Personal Buffs

Armour up!
+ 1 on mount to make her Master (usual level Expert)
+2 on Singing (from Lion's locket) - makes this GM (usual level Expert)
+50% on her efficiency as a leader in this situation, rather than a +2 on skills for Vega.

[Kisaik]

The Forest Awakes

As Kisaik was ordered to scout behind them as Vega and Jasper flew ahead to meet the pirates on their own ground, he nodded, taking her cue as leader of the settlement. He knew what he would do, and without another word flew off to search behind the lines, to spot anything unusual in the forest of Sweetwine. His search, cursory thought it was, revealed little. Although he wasn't fully trusting his own eyes, he had half a mind to fly down and commune with the wilderness to check if anything had passed that way. Instead, he began doubling back, over Sweetsong, to meet with Vega and Jasper.

Before he could reach their flight formation, however, he spotted figures moving around Chest, in the middle of Sweetsong. These weren't villagers or defenders, but had the look of visitors, having recently arrived to Sweetsong. They bore weapons, and didn't appear concerned for the defense of the village, nor were they causing much damage... yet.

Kisaik decided they were fully suspicious, but didn't wish to draw any conclusions. Still, it would be remiss of him to not seek the aid such as which he could call upon. He began speaking in tree talk, shouting for all the wildlife for many fathoms around to come to the aid of the village and the wilderness of Sweetsong. He roused the wilderness creatures, using

his Clarion Call

to rouse them to the defense of the village and all who dwelt within it. He instructed them to surround these weapon bearing strangers, and hopefully put themselves in tactically advantageous positions.

As he made his will known to all those creatures, he began rounding around the pass, taking up position several fathoms from Chest, and then belted out a horn call through his Sweetsong ability to play instruments with just a gesture. Then he spoke to these interlopers, "Halt! State your intentions! Be you friend or foe?" He sat astride Aquarius, in the head-mounted saddle he kept for battle situations.

Aquarius eyed them carefully.

As he waited for a response, he called upon

the Verdant Protection granted to him by Ashan

To trip up any attempts to attack or take hostile aggression toward ANYONE belonging to Sweetsong. If they thought to fight him, they'd find in him a most slippery foe. He also called upon Taithir's Serpent's Hood to make himself appear a greater threat, to divert attention from any of the defenders of Sweetsong, and garner their attacks toward him and Aquarius, if there were any. With the ephemeral blade appearing in his hand, Kisaik was confident he'd be able to meet any such aggression with skill and bravery. In his other hand, he produced the Lava Egg, which would serve as a useful grenade to throw at the visitors if they refused to stand down or declared themselves friend.

While Kisaik was doing all of this, the archers and other defenders of Sweetsong heard his horn call, and coalesced around the visitors, and would be ready to respond if they took any hostile action.

Actions Taken

Kisaik is taken the buffs offered by Vega. +2 to Tactics, rising it to Master. +1 to Combat: Blades rising it to Master.

He's using his mortalborn ability to call the woodland creatures to the aid of Sweetsong. Making a perimeter if possible around the interlopers moving through Sweetsong, to prevent their further passage.

He's using Serpent's Hood ability from Taithir, to make himself as threatening as possible.

He's using his Verdant Protection, so that the forest itself awakes to defend him. This could be vines tripping up attackers, branches moving to smack them about the head, etc.

He's summoned his Ephemeral Blade, to defend himself against the interlopers.

[Winston]

Why hide, when you can just be?

When Astra gave her thanks, the ferret smiled kindly and replied light-heartedly. "Yuh welcam, bot yuh save yuh tanks far

Chest

an' Saiore, me just de dar-mun."

As the people entered Chest, they appeared in the usual hallway and were

greeted

by

Shinwa

,

whome directed them through a doorway on their right

into a large congregation area.

When Joy explained what Vega had meant by her gesture he replied to Joy with the same and a bright smile and then to Vega with a thumbs up. He then immediately ushered Joy into Chest, to ensure that Vega was present to witness her going in and (most importantly) being safe.

Then as the final few that were obviously seeking refuge made it into Chest, Winston jumped in and pulled the lid closed almost entirely but for a crack, through which he could peek. Sian and Lilly were helping with the children and

Angela

was trying to ensure people were getting settled and staying clam

.

Shinwa was already handing out food and water, which was at the very least, something that they had plenty of here for the time being. He looked around the large room that Chest had created and marvelled, just for a moment, and wondered how far they were pushing Chest's limits... For now though, it was crowded, but perfectly adiquate for a short term shelter.

He turned back to the entrance to Chest and peaked out. There were people, with weapons, moving around... They were not of the village though he was sure that perhaps he had seen a few before...

The Devil on My Shoulder
Vengeance: OH! They've been checking us out!?! Bloody CHEEK!
Winston: Yuh, mun, bot reet naw, dem es leavin' os alone, which es just wat we need.
Vengeance: Yeah, too right. Lets take notes then we can chase them up with Vega later. Show them what you get for messing with us!
Winston: Nope. We gatta stay nutral.
Vengeance: I'm not saying we do anything NOW, just later.
Winston: A spy is nat nutral. A spy jost pretends tuh be neutral. An' we ar' nat 'ere tuh spy. We es 'ere tuh be safe.
Curiosity: I wonder if they can see us INSIDE Chest? Are WE going to be ignored?
Winston: Me don't know, which es why me es hiding.

He made a deliberate effort to gather the information he needed and ignore the rest and currently, the only information he needed was whether or not their plan was working and right now it was. This all depended upon him... on them keeping their cool and staying neutral... well, Winston was sure that as long as Chest remained neutral, that it would be fine, however if the people in here started to get rowdy, then Chest would be forced to eject them in order to remain neutral...

For now, they could remain calm and that was enough. He asked Chest to carefully begin to make its way out of the centre of the settlement. If things got rough here, being in the middle of the action would be unwise.

He heard the bugle-call from Kisaik and gave thanks to Saiore for Chest, to Chamadarst for their neutrality and to Chest, for being his friend.

He returned to the room where everyone was. It was, right now, OK, but it needed to stay that way.

The Devil on My Shoulder
Curiosity: What would Vega do?
Winston: She wud kick peepal's bots.
Curiosity: Yeah, but if she could not do THAT, what would she do?
Winston: She wud give peepal jabs!

Winston set about working with Angela to lead people into roles inside Chest. There were people giving food, giving water, playing with children and laying out beds. He didn't have half the skills needed to do all these things, but fortunately, he didn't need them, he only needed people that did have them. As such, he got Shinwa and anyone else with skill in

running things

to do that.

Anyone with

skill in survival

to set out beds with whatever they had to hand.

Anyone with

skill in medicine

to get ready an area to help the wounded... In fact, he cleared out the separate waiting room for this purpose, so that if there were grizzly wounded searching for help, the children need not witness that.

Anyone that looked like idle hands might lead to looking for a reason to worry about what was going on outside would be given a task, regardless of import or triviality.

He also summoned

Kelpie

with his

Fairy Bell

and asked her to help entertain the people inside the shelter. "Ef yuh need tuh leave, tuh let anyone else know about wat's goin' an... please FEEL FREE..." He said, with deliberate pause.

Kelpie looked a little panicked and vanished as quickly as she had appeared.

All the time, Winston checked out of the crack in Chest's lid, from time to time, to keep abreast of their situation.

Actions Taken

Moving Chest out of the center of the settlement in case of getting caught by collateral damage.

Boosted Discipline to Expert with Vega's Flag to keep his head and be able to make good choices.

Boosted Leadership to Competent with Vega's performance to allow him to steer some basic order inside chest.

Used everyone ELSE's specialities to try and succeed in the above.

Summoned Kelpie to ensure she and so the Fairies of Sweetwine were aware of the need to seek shelter.

Created a space to take on the injured (though lacks medicine to actually treat them).

Chest's Defensive Advantages

• Chest is resistant to damage and magic generally (not immune of course), but is considered during write up to be almost indestructible (able to regenerate from near complete destruction).
• Chest heals damage fast.
• The inerio of Chest is largely speaking not affected by the outside.
• Chest is being ignored by the Pirates: The locket he has attached to chest has this permanent charm on it:
  
  Pass Unnoticed - Level: Favoured
  Based uppong "Pass Unnoticed - Level: Favored" from here.
  Activation: This is a passive ability that is simple active while wearing the locket.
  Power Description: Neutrality is a wonderful thing. It allows merchants to trade in war zones, generally to both sides. It lets the banker enforce peace and calm in his bank. It allows the glass maker to create beautiful works of art while the world rages around them. This ability takes that to an extreme, however, as it allows the wearer to pass through any conflict without either side noticing them. However, this ability only works so long as the wearer remains absolutely neutral. Favoring a side of a conflict will render this ability null. It also doesn't prevent the wearer from any of the side effects of a conflict, such as thrown pots, boiling oil, or stray arrows.
  
  So Winston intends to offer GENUINE sanctuary to ANYONE, pirate or otherwise, that wishes to take and honour it inside chest. As such, the pirates should ignore it completely, unless of course, they choose to seek shelter in peace.