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Yusef #5:

Led by the urgings of the Sapphire Sword, Yusef is drawn to a slot-like depression on the poop deck of the Wanderer. After uttering a pray to Celestian, Yusef inserts the blade into the slot. A sapphire glow slides up the sword and covers Yusef! Yusef feels warmth and a voice whispers in his mind.

“Hail, fellow traveler,” the voice states. “The Wanderer is now yours. It is a place of worship and travel for those faithful to the Star Wanderer. Many wonderful journeys will you undertake and far you will travel. Go forth and explore in the name of Celestian.”

The voice then fades away.

Upon opening his eyes, Yusef discovers that the Wanderer is moving! It is covered in a sapphire glow and is rising towards the surface! The ship breaks the surface, creating a small wake, and once there will float normally. The glow begins to fade and with it any extra water inside the ship. Before long the ship is dry once more.

Not too far away Uncle Fahid watches in astonishment.

GM Notes:

Probably the shortest of all time!

Here’s a more in-depth explanation. Your ancestor the Warlord Rashid was also a follower of Celestian. High Priests of Celestian do not build temples like other faiths. Instead, their idea of a temple is something that moves like a ship. But this isn’t a normal ship. The Sapphire Sword, while inserted into the slot, functions something like a Spell Engine. It’ll propel the ship across the water at a faster than normal rate. At night, while underneath the stars, the Wanderer can fly and can even enter space.

A Priest of Celestian is the only one who can use the extra functions of the Sword of the Wanderer, thus it never reacted to any other family members who handled the sword. When separated from the Wanderer, the direction of the ship can be determined by an act of concentration while holding the sword. If the sword hasn’t been touched by a Celestian in a long time, it will automatically mentally flash the location of the ship.

Yusef can mentally control the Wanderer when the sword is in place. It has no extra powers beyond movement and generating life support. The rate of movement depends on the owner’s clerical level, so the more powerful the priest the faster the Wanderer can go. Spells are not drained from the priest in this process.

I found an interesting article on Celestian that you might find informative:

http://www.spelljammer.org/chars/classe ... stian.html

Now what?

Yusef:

Yusef guides the Sapphire Sword into the slit which seems made for it. As he does so, the sword glows brighter and the glow spreads up the sword and then up Yusef's arm! Though surprised and somewhat scared by this, Yusef feels the warm glow and forces himself to not release the sword.

As if this experience couldn't get any stranger, a voice begins speaking in Yusef's mind. Could this be Celestian himself? Probably not, though it may be one of the entities that serve him - or it could be the voice of his own ancestor, the Warlord Rashid, carried down through the centuries!

"Thank you, I will," Yusef says softly as he thinks the same message in reply to the voice.

The feeling of motion causes Yusef to open his eyes. Looking around, he realizes that The Wanderer is rising toward the surface! Not wanting to risk capsizing Uncle Fahid's boat, Yusef mentally urges it to move forward a little bit. Soon the ship breaks the surface a safe distance from Fahid's boat. Water pours from the ship as it empties out and begins to dry.

"Hail, uncle!" Yusef calls out excitedly. "I found great-great-great-great-great-grandfather's ship!"
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This is incredibly cool! I suspected that the ship would be special, but wasn't sure how it was going to work.

That article is very interesting, though it seems to focus on Greyhawk and doesn't really take monks into account. Not sure how common Spelljamming and Planewalking are here.

Post Continued:

The Wanderer breaks the surface; seemingly no worse for wear after being on the floor of the lagoon for many years. Yusef directs the ship away from his uncle’s fishing boat so as not to capsize it, but then brings it alongside afterwards. Uncle Fahid is helped up on board.

“This ship is incredible!” Uncle Fahid utters in astonishment. “I’ve never seen anything like it before! Even the wood seems-- different. Are you saying that this is the ship of our ancestors?”

The Wanderer is quickly explored. While the ship is in good condition, things like the sails and bedding in the bunks rotted after years of being underwater. Underneath the poop deck is a small crew area. There are three cabins, the largest being the captains’ cabin that occupies the rear of the ship. One is a smaller cabin and the other a galley/food storage area.

Uncle Fahid has seen this type of ship before. Typically the crew just sleeps on deck. There are hatches on deck that lead to small storage areas. These cramped spaces would only be comfortable for a halfling! Typically, things like extra sails would be stored down there and other materials to repair the ship. Likewise any cargo is usually just secured on the main deck.

GM Notes:

This is incredibly cool! I suspected that the ship would be special, but wasn't sure how it was going to work.

I think I had this all figured out pretty near to when the solo stuff started, so it’s good I was consistent in unraveling this mystery. Even if you were reluctant to take the sword!

That article is very interesting, though it seems to focus on Greyhawk and doesn't really take monks into account. Not sure how common Spelljamming and Planewalking are here.

Celestian comes from the Greyhawk campaign, so it’s natural that he’s focused there. Celestian is big in space. Monks are a type of cleric, so they just get worked into there. I don’t recall any deity write up that specifies monks.

Space travel, be it by Spelljamming, Spell Engine or other means, is more common among more magically advanced cultures. It’s as common as plane travel is here to day in America. By comparison, Cynalon is more a 3rd world nation and it barely exists, if at all.

Yusef:

Fahid wrote:“This ship is incredible!” Uncle Fahid utters in astonishment. “I’ve never seen anything like it before! Even the wood seems--different. Are you saying that this is the ship of our ancestors?”

"I believe that to be true, uncle," Yusef replies, then points to the Sapphire Sword embedded in the deck near the front of the poop deck. "When I inserted the sword into the slot over there, a voice spoke to me and said as much. If the voice is to be believed, and I believe it is because the name The Wanderer is emblazoned on the stern, then this is indeed the very same ship."

Yusef and Fahid examine the ship from stem to stern; his uncle's knowledge of boats is very helpful in ferreting out it's few secrets. The ship is not large, but more than sufficient to Yusef's needs. There appears to be a need for some refitting and restocking, but the ship itself is in great shape.

"I believe it is time we started the journey back to Sams Bandar, uncle Fahid," Yusef says. "This ship is likely much faster than yours; perhaps we could tow your ship behind this one?"

I think I had this all figured out pretty near to when the solo stuff started, so it’s good I was consistent in unraveling this mystery. Even if you were reluctant to take the sword!

Players have a talent for messing up the best laid plans of GMs...

Space travel, be it by Spelljamming, Spell Engine or other means, is more common among more magically advanced cultures. It’s as common as plane travel is here to day in America. By comparison, Cynalon is more a 3rd world nation and it barely exists, if at all.

Cynalon: a 3rd world country. An interesting perspective relative to the campaign world. Of course, the inhabitants think of it as the greatest and most important place on the planet.

Gordon

Post Continued:

Yusef wrote:"I believe it is time we started the journey back to Sams Bandar, uncle Fahid," Yusef says. "This ship is likely much faster than yours; perhaps we could tow your ship behind this one?"

“Yes, that would probably be for the best,” Fahid agrees. “Let us transfer our stores on board first.”

Once the supplies are brought on board the Wanderer, lines are secured to Uncle Fahid’s boat and you’re ready to set sail.

At Yusef’s mental urging, the Wanderer begins to move forward, back towards the Island of Jazirat al-Qraidis. The Wanderer moves slowly at first, but rapidly begins to pick up speed. The journey that took over a day in the fishing canoe takes a mere four hours in the Wanderer. The island is reached and the Wanderer is set on a course to follow the shoreline back the way you came.

The Wanderer makes excellent time, but progress comes to a halt once night falls. It is simply too dark to safely navigate these waters with their hidden shoals and reefs.

Uncle Fahid estimates that you’re already halfway back to Sams Bandar. What took nearly six days in the canoe will take only two in the Wanderer!

GM Notes:

Players have a talent for messing up the best laid plans of GMs...

Oh, don’t I know that! That’s why I plot things to remain very flexible to adapt to whatever curve comes my way.

Cynalon: a 3rd world country. An interesting perspective relative to the campaign world. Of course, the inhabitants think of it as the greatest and most important place on the planet.

Perhaps 3rd world is a bit harsh. Cynalon is definitely a second tier nation, with only Alphatia and Thyatis being first tier ones. I’d rate Zakhara, Thothia, Norwold, Vassa, and Celestia ahead of Cynalon among the 2nd tier nations. But it is improving!

Now what?

Yusef:

Fahid wrote:“Yes, that would probably be for the best,” Fahid agrees. “Let us transfer our stores on board first.”

"Good idea." The two of them set to work, and soon they are ready to go. Yusef turns his attention to directing the ship, causing it to start out slowly and gradually accellerate. It is amazing just how fast they can travel, even with the smaller ship tethered behind. By nightfall, they have travelled nearly half the distance back to Sams Bandar!

"Have you ever seen a ship as fast as this one, uncle?" Yusef asks. "My only previous experience with ships is the one I came here on, and that one flew through the sky."

Anchoring offshore for the night, Yusef will go ashore to do a little hunting while Fahid fishes. Between the two of them, they should soon have plenty of food for the night and another day's travel.

Post Continued:

Yusef and Uncle Fahid continue to take in the Wanderer.

Yusef wrote:"Have you ever seen a ship as fast as this one, uncle?" Yusef asks. "My only previous experience with ships is the one I came here on, and that one flew through the sky."

“No, I’ve never heard of any ship that could move this fast. There must be some type of magic involved.”

Fahid does a double take upon hearing about a flying ship!

“You were on a ship that flew through the sky? I have heard many strange things, but nothing like that. It is said that in the major cities of Zakhara genies are used in such a manner. That they can transport boats much faster across the water! Perhaps there is a genie bound to this vessel?”


That evening, while storing the food that was fished for or salvaged, Yusef notices several unique features of the galley. Along one wall is a large chest of drawers used to store foodstuffs in. It seems that the temperature in these drawers vary! The upper drawer doesn’t feel any different, but the temperature goes down the lower you go. The bottom drawer has a build up of ice inside it!


Early the next morning the Wanderer sets sail once more as soon as Celestian rises. The remainder of the trip back to Sams Bandar passes quickly and just after dusk the Wanderer docks at the village. All who see the ship are amazed by it! A few will even offer to buy the ship from you.

Now what?

Yusef:

Fahid wrote:“No, I’ve never heard of any ship that could move this fast. Tjhere must be some type of magic involved.”

Fahid does a double take upon hearing about a flying ship!

“You were on a ship that flew through the sky? I have heard many strange things, but nothing like that. It is said that in the major cities of Zakhara genies are used in such a manner. That they can transport boats much faster across the water! Perhaps there is a genie bound to this vessel?”

"Indeed, I have no doubt that such ships are magical, though whether that involves a bound creature or otherwise, I know not. I was told that this ship was specifically created for Celestian's faithful, and that none other could master its power. Though as you know I have not yet tried it, but I was told that it, too, could fly during the night."

The drawers in the galley are very strange. Yusef points them out to his uncle. "Have you any idea of the purpose of these frigid drawers, uncle? I'm afraid I have no practical knowledge of such things."

The next day's sailing goes well and they make incredible speed once again. Yusef does his best to learn what he can of operating the ship from Fahid. The sun is just approaching the horizon when Sams Bandar heaves into view. By time they reach the dock, many of the villagers are standing about, staring at them with mouths agape.

"Ahoy there! Uncle Fahid and I have returned!" Yusef secures the Wanderer to the dock, then assists his uncle in detaching the fishing boat and getting it and its gear stowed properly. As they work, he will answer any questions as best he can. Any offers to purchase the ship will be politely refused.
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A refrigerator? That's too cool!

Post Continued:

Yusef has returned to Sams Bandar on board the Wanderer.

Yusef wrote:"Indeed, I have no doubt that such ships are magical, though whether that involves a bound creature or otherwise, I know not. I was told that this ship was specifically created for Celestian's faithful, and that none other could master its power. Though as you know I have not yet tried it, but I was told that it, too, could fly during the night."

“Fly at night?” Fahid says a bit dumbfounded. “If it’s all the same to you, I’d rather just sail!”

Yusef wrote:The drawers in the galley are very strange. Yusef points them out to his uncle. "Have you any idea of the purpose of these frigid drawers, uncle? I'm afraid I have no practical knowledge of such things."

“To keep beverages cold?” Uncle Fahid will answer with a shrug. “Perhaps to keep fish fresh?”

Yusef wrote:"Ahoy there! Uncle Fahid and I have returned!" Yusef secures the Wanderer to the dock, and then assists his uncle in detaching the fishing boat and getting it and its gear stowed properly. As they work, he will answer any questions as best he can. Any offers to purchase the ship will be politely refused.

Word will spread across the village and grandfather will arrive before too long. The sight of his father’s ship can’t help but bring a smile to his face.

“By the Lady of Fate! It is the Wanderer! Where did you find her?”

Now what?

Yusef:

Fahid wrote:“Fly at night?” Fahid says a bit dumbfounded. “If it’s all the same to you, I’d rather just sail!”

"I know what you mean, uncle," Fahid says. "I'm a little nervous about trying that out myself."

Fahid wrote:“To keep beverages cold?” Uncle Fahid will answer with a shrug. “Perhaps to keep fish fresh?”

"I guess that makes sense. Truly, whoever thought to build such a thing into a ship is far beyond my capacity to comprehend." As a test, he will try putting a few of the fish they have remaining in their food supply into different drawers, just to see what happens.

Falawi wrote:“By the Lady of Fate! It is the Wanderer! Where did you find her?”

"It is wonderful to see you again, grandfather," Yusef says, bowing in respect. "She was at the bottom of the lagoon near the center between the Vyum al-Sartan. The Sapphire Sword was the key to retrieving her, so thank you for allowing me its use."

Yusef will make time to spend with his family and tell them of his adventure. Still, Sherra and his date with destiny in the form of his father are not far from his mind.

Post Continued:

Yusef wrote:"I guess that makes sense. Truly, whoever thought to build such a thing into a ship is far beyond my capacity to comprehend." As a test, he will try putting a few of the fish they have remaining in their food supply into different drawers, just to see what happens.

“There is much in this world that is beyond me,” Uncle Fahid admits. “The skill and craftsmanship to create such a thing as this is impressive.”

The fish in the coldest drawer actually freezes. The ones in the higher drawers stay fresher longer. By trial and error you’ll be able to determine which drawer is best for what item.

Yusef wrote:"It is wonderful to see you again, grandfather," Yusef says, bowing in respect. "She was at the bottom of the lagoon near the center between the Vyum al-Sartan. The Sapphire Sword was the key to retrieving her, so thank you for allowing me its use."

“I sense a tale that must be told!” Grandfather cries out. “I want to hear all of it!”


The days pass and the Wanderer is made ready to sail once more. Some of the goods given by the Haifami can be used on the ship, and others traded for those things that you do need such as sails, bedding, etc. Stores can be filled as well with supplies for the journey to come.

Anything else you want to do before departing Sams Bandar?

Yusef:

Fahid admits that he has no more knowledge of this strange device than Yusef. Fortunately, some experimentation starts to give a feel for how best to use it. Still, it will take time to master the mysteries of these drawers.

Falawi wrote:“I sense a tale that must be told!” Grandfather cries out. “I want to hear all of it!”

"And so you shall, grandfather. Tonight after dinner, I will tell the tale for all to hear that wish it. In the meantime, let's put together a feast worthy of this occasion!" Yusef will happily turn some part of what the Hafami gave him over to the purpose of providing a feast for the people of Sams Bandar. Once all have eaten, he will tell the tale of his discovery of The Wanderer in as much detail as he can recall.

The next few days are spent out-fitting the ship and enjoying the company of his family. As the time draws close for leaving, Yusef approaches his grandfather. "Grandfather, I have need of your wisdom. It would be good to have company on my voyages to come, yet I am loathe to deprive our village of the manpower to survive. Know you of any here that might make good crew for the ship, but whose loss wouldn't cripple the village?"

Post Continued:

The feast is well received, and yes, it does seem that the people of Zakhara do enjoy feasts! Yusef’s tale is listened to as well. Yusef can’t help but notice that one young man in the crowd does pay very close attention to the story. Afterwards the man will introduce himself.

“An exciting tale,” the man will say. “May I repeat your story so that others may hear it? I am Khalid al-Karim, a teller of stories and keeper of histories. I came to these islands to learn more tales and yours I find most intriguing.”

Yusef wrote:The next few days are spent out-fitting the ship and enjoying the company of his family. As the time draws close for leaving, Yusef approaches his grandfather. "Grandfather, I have need of your wisdom. It would be good to have company on my voyages to come, yet I am loathe to deprive our village of the manpower to survive. Know you of any here that might make good crew for the ship, but whose loss wouldn't cripple the village?"

After a time, Grandfather will say, “Yusef, people come and go, even in a small village like ours. We adapt and make due with what we have. Only a major disaster would cripple our village. One or two people departing will not make a huge difference.”

“But on to your question, yes there is one who I think is willing to leave our village. He is Haji al-Nayyir, a young man who fancies himself as a corsair. I think he would be very eager to sail away with you.”

A corsair, at least in the Arabian Adventures setting, is a sea-going fighter type.

Now what?

Yusef:

After all the trouble that has plagued these people - his people - Yusef is happy to see them enjoying themselves. Though he's no storyteller, Yusef does his best to make the story interesting without embellishing.

Khalid wrote:“An exciting tale,” the man will say. “May I repeat your story so that others may hear it? I am Khalid al-Karim, a teller of stories and keeper of histories. I came to these islands to learn more tales and yours I find most intriguing.”

"A pleasure to meet you, Khalid al-Karim," Yusef says, bowing to the man in the traditional manner. "If you think people will find the tale interesting, you have my blessing to tell it to anyone you wish. My only request is that you not embellish or change the story greatly. If you are a teller of stories, I would enjoy hearing any you might have collected in your travels."

A couple days later, Yusef speaks with his grandfather about the subject of crew for the ship.

Falawi wrote:After a time, Grandfather will say, “Yusef, people come and go, even in a small village like ours. We adapt and make due with what we have. Only a major disaster would cripple our village. One or two people departing will not make a huge difference.”

“But on to your question, yes there is one who I think is willing to leave our village. He is Haji al-Nayyir, a young man who fancies himself as a corsair. I think he would be very eager to sail away with you.”

"Thank you, grandfather, that is good news. I had considered also seeking out a companion or two from the Haifami, but their people were decimated and I don't believe they can spare a single tribesman. Still, I will seek out this corsair and see what he says."

Since evening has not yet passed into night when Yusef and his grandfather finish their conversation, Yusef goes in search of Haji al-Nayyir. The village is small enough that some asking around among should lead him to his quarry.

Post Continued:

Yusef continues to prepare to depart the islands.

Yusef wrote:"A pleasure to meet you, Khalid al-Karim," Yusef says, bowing to the man in the traditional manner. "If you think people will find the tale interesting, you have my blessing to tell it to anyone you wish. My only request is that you not embellish or change the story greatly. If you are a teller of stories, I would enjoy hearing any you might have collected in your travels.”

“I agree to your terms,” Khalid will say with a bow. “If you wish to hear my tales, then perhaps we can come to an arrangement? While I have enjoyed my stay here; time has come for me to move on. In exchange for passage on your ship to the next landfall, I will tell my tales. Are we in agreement?”


After speaking with grandfather, Yusef goes in search of Haji al-Nayyir. His location is quickly discovered: he’s down at the docks staring out into the ocean with an almost longing look.

Once he’s aware of your presence, Haji will say, “You’re Yusef, are you not? How I envy you. Being able to sail away from here has always been a dream of mine.”


The next day, Yusef returns to the Wanderer to continue the preparations. He’s surprised to hear movement from the below decks area! Sneaking to investigate, Yusef can hear someone rummaging through the galley! The door to the galley is ajar and looking inside Yusef is stunned to see a familiar face! It’s Rat, the master finder Yusef met when he first joined up with Sherwood!

Looking back, Rat see’s Yusef standing there. A concerned look is on his face at first, but one that turns into joy.

“Cats-Eyes!” Rat calls out, but then catches himself and says, “Friend Yusef! How pleased I am to find a friendly face in this strange land! Where are we?”


Now what?

Yusef:

Khalid wrote:“I agree to your terms,” Khalid will say with a bow. “If you wish to hear my tales, then perhaps we can come to an arrangement? While I have enjoyed my stay here; time has come for me to move on. In exchange for passage on your ship to the next landfall, I will tell my tales. Are we in agreement?”

"An excellent idea, Khalid!" Yusef says. "I shall be most happy to have your company, for however far you choose to share my path."

Haji wrote:Once he’s aware of your presence, Haji will say, “You’re Yusef, are you not? How I envy you. Being able to sail away from here has always been a dream of mine.”

"Indeed I am," Yusef replies. "Are you Haji? If you like, I think I'm in a position to make that dream come true. In fact, I think we can both benefit here. I will be leaving in the next couple of days. If you wish to join me on my travels and serve as an honored crew member, I would be grateful for the company. What say you?"

Yusef rises early the next day, as there is much to do if he wants to be able to leave on the following day's tide. As he begins his work preparing the ship, Yusef notes a sound from below-decks. Gliding over to the galley door, he peeks within only to see a face he would never have expected here and now: Rat! So stunned is he that Yusef accidently makes a noise, drawing Rat's attention. The pair stare at each other in surprise for several long moments before the halfling finally speaks up.

Rat wrote:“Cats-Eyes!” Rat calls out, but then catches himself and says, “Friend Yusef! How pleased I am to find a friendly face in this strange land! Where are we?”

"Rat? Can it really be you?" Yusef still isn't certain he can believe his eyes. "This is the land of my ancestors, Rat. I have finally found my family. These islands are known as Al-Sartan, the Archipeligo of the Great Crab. What about you? How did you get here? What are you looking for on my ship?"
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I was so surprised by Rat's appearance that my wife asked me why I was laughing so much!

Rat:

At one moment, the Master Finder was wandering though the mine tunnels under Mountain Lake. The dwarves had gone off with out him, again!, and so Rat was forced to look around on his own. Besides, they were more interested in battle then the acquisition of wealth!

In the next moment, Rat was on a small ship of a design he had never seen before! It was either just after sunset or just before sunrise, so the sky was showing only a little light. Looking around, Rat found the area to be vacant.

“Good one, Trickster!” Rat called out to his patron. “What sort of trouble did Friendly Rapscallion put me in now? I swear I didn’t know that it was your temple's treasury!”

Rat’s patron, the Halfling deity known as Brandobaris had done this to Rat before. Years ago, he was sent to another land where he joined up with a band known as the Company of Thieves. That was nice for a time and he took the lass Kit under his wing and showed her the ways of the Finder. It was a good time for Rat, well except for that dunking in the fountain, but that was never spoken of again.

Rat departed the Company in the same manner that he had joined it. He was back in his native shires. But the wanderlust struck once more and Rat did wander the land. There he hooked up with the lass Kylie and taught her the ways of the Finder. But Sherwood had his eyes on the lass and she went off with those magical types to learn their dark arts.

Years later Rat did catch up with Kylie again, but only for a short time. She had to leave on some quest for the elves and no halflings were allowed. This time Rat hooked up with some dwarves as he thought it would lead to excitement and treasure. Thus far it really hadn’t. Rat was feeling very out of place, so this new opportunity was almost a blessing.

Almost, for this was an unknown land and there was no guarantee that he could communicate with the locals, assuming that they weren’t the halfling eating type!

But Rat appeared to be safe, at least for the moment. The ship was deserted. No harm in taking a look around then! Besides, Rat had missed his late morning meal!

Making his way down below, Rat searched for the galley. He had been on ships before and had even been known as the terror of the seas: Cap’n Rat! While rummaging for food, a familiar face found Rat.

Yusef wrote:"Rat? Can it really be you?" Yusef still isn't certain he can believe his eyes. "This is the land of my ancestors, Rat. I have finally found my family. These islands are known as Al-Sartan, the Archipelago of the Great Crab. What about you? How did you get here? What are you looking for on my ship?"

“Course it’s me! You know another Halfling Master Finder by the name o’ Rat? Land of your ancestors? Then we’re close to the shires? Who’s Al Certain? The Ark Pell Ago of the Great Crab? Never heard of these places!”

“How did I get here? Well, I suspect that it was the Master of Stealth, myself. He sort of holds a grudge against me and seems to enjoy moving me around the world on a whim. But I never imagined finding a friendly face here! What am I doing? Looking for food! I’m famished!”

“So this is your ship them? Well, friend Yusef you are in luck! They call me Cap’n Rat, they do! So are we on a mission to find treasure? Where are you going next?”

--

I was so surprised by Rat's appearance that my wife asked me why I was laughing so much!

I bet! Rat should be a better fit here than with the dwarves. The Company of Thieves was a game on Q where Rat started out. It was run by GM Shifty who also played Padraig in the Frontier. Almost all of Rat’s gear and experience came from that game and it inspired Rat’s moving about without rhyme or reason.

Post Continued:

Yusef wrote:"An excellent idea, Khalid!" Yusef says. "I shall be most happy to have your company, for however far you choose to share my path."

“We are in agreement then,” Khalid answers. “When do you plan on departing and what is your destination?”

Yusef wrote:"Indeed I am," Yusef replies. "Are you Haji? If you like, I think I'm in a position to make that dream come true. In fact, I think we can both benefit here. I will be leaving in the next couple of days. If you wish to join me on my travels and serve as an honored crewmember, I would be grateful for the company. What say you?"

“Are you serious?” Haji blurts out, a giddy look on his face. “Me go with you? Away from this dull place? You’ve got yourself a crewman!”

Haji turns and then starts to run off.

“Let me grab a few things from home, then I’ll be ready to go! I’ll be right back.”


Later on, Yusef discovers Rat on board the Wanderer and the two acquaintances chat.


Now what?

Yusef:

Khalid wrote:“We are in agreement then,” Khalid answers. “When do you plan on departing and what is your destination?”

"My first destination is Cynalon, though we may need to stop to add crew or provisions along the way. I don't know yet, as there is much I don't yet understand about this magical ship. I hope to leave as soon as the ship is fully outfitted and the weather is good, which seems to be just about all of the time out here! I suspect it will be no more than a few days from now."

Haji wrote:“Are you serious?” Haji blurts out, a giddy look on his face. “Me go with you? Away from this dull place? You’ve got yourself a crewman!”

Haji turns and then starts to run off.

“Let me grab a few things from home, then I’ll be ready to go! I’ll be right back.”

Yusef is delighted by Haji's enthusiasm. "That is wonderful news, Haji! I doubt we'll be ready to leave before tomorrow or the day after, but you're welcome to bunk aboard until then if you like."

Rat wrote:“Course it’s me! You know another Halfling Master Finder by the name o’ Rat? Land of your ancestors? Then we’re close to the shires? Who’s Al Certain? The Ark Pell Ago of the Great Crab? Never heard of these places!”

Yusef grins as Rat rattles on. "I don't know if this is near the shires, but these islands are part of the land called Zakhara, if that helps any. I believe we are quite a ways from Cynalon, though."

Rat wrote:“How did I get here? Well, I suspect that it was the Master of Stealth myself. He sort of holds a grudge against me and seems to enjoy moving me around the world on a whim. But I never imagined finding a friendly face here! What am I doing? Looking for food! I’m famished!”

"Are you saying that a god likes to mess with you, Rat?" Yusef asks, looking concerned. "That doesn't sound like a very good position to be in..."

Rat wrote:“So this is your ship them? Well, friend Yusef you are in luck! They call me Cap’n Rat, they do! So are we on a mission to find treasure? Where are you going next?”

"Yes, the ship is mine, now. It once belonged to my ancestor, Rashid the Warlord. Just a few days ago, I retrieved it from the bottom of the lagoon.

"As for where we are going next, I need to return to Cynalon and deal with my father. Once that is done, I plan to wander the world and see all the wonders that it contains. Does that interest you? I will leave the finding of treasure to your expertise. And if Sherra agrees to come with us, as I hope, I'm sure she'll be happy to assist."

Rat:

Yusef wrote:Yusef grins as Rat rattles on. "I don't know if this is near the shires, but these islands are part of the land called Zakhara, if that helps any. I believe we are quite a ways from Cynalon, though."

“Zakhara,” Rat repeats. “Yes, I’ve heard the name once or twice in Elcadan. It’s far to the west, across a desert from Cynalon. It would be a long walk back.”

Yusef wrote:"Are you saying that a god likes to mess with you, Rat?" Yusef asks, looking concerned. "That doesn't sound like a very good position to be in..."

“Oh, nothing to worry about,” Rat answers, shrugging it off as nothing serious. “Brandobaris is the Master of Adventure and Misadventure. His tales and exploits are the stuff of legend. He keeps my life from becoming dull and frankly, I’m probably better off for it!”

Yusef wrote:"Yes, the ship is mine, now. It once belonged to my ancestor, Rashid the Warlord. Just a few days ago, I retrieved it from the bottom of the lagoon.

"As for where we are going next, I need to return to Cynalon and deal with my father. Once that is done, I plan to wander the world and see all the wonders that it contains. Does that interest you? I will leave the finding of treasure to your expertise. And if Sherra agrees to come with us, as I hope, I'm sure she'll be happy to assist."

“Aye, that sounds grand to me! The chance to travel and secure treasure? What halfling wouldn’t want that? Well, other than seven or eight good meals per day! Let’s get a move on! There’s grand adventure to be had and fabulous treasures to be found! Cap'n Rat is ready to set sail!”

Post Continued:

Yusef continues to gather a crew for his first long voyage on the Wanderer.

Yusef wrote:"My first destination is Cynalon, though we may need to stop to add crew or provisions along the way. I don't know yet, as there is much I don't yet understand about this magical ship. I hope to leave as soon as the ship is fully outfitted and the weather is good, which seems to be just about all of the time out here! I suspect it will be no more than a few days from now."

“I’ve only heard whisper of this Cynalon,” Khalid muses. “I am not sure that I wish to travel that far, but as you say there will be other landfalls between here and there. I cannot say just how long I will travel with you.”

“I have some knowledge of these islands. To the east is an island chain called the Djinni’s Claws. I have been told that there is a safe port there by the name of Kaff. That seems to me to be the most likely first stop on your journey. But there is danger as well, for it is said that pirates sail those waters.”


The weather is typical for the tropics. It’s cool and comfortable in the morning and hot and sticky in the late afternoon. It’s not uncommon for a quick, heavy afternoon rain to fall before clearing up once more.

Yusef wrote:Yusef is delighted by Haji's enthusiasm. "That is wonderful news, Haji! I doubt we'll be ready to leave before tomorrow or the day after, but you're welcome to bunk aboard until then if you like."

“At least it's off the island,” Haji calls back, his enthusiasm unabated.


Ready to depart?

Yusef:

Khalid wrote:“I’ve only heard whisper of this Cynalon,” Khalid muses. “I am not sure that I wish to travel that far, but as you say there will be other landfalls between here and there. I cannot say just how long I will travel with you.”

"The decision is entirely yours, Khalid. We will drop you wherever you wish along our route, and you are welcome to remain with us as long as you like."

Khalid wrote:“I have some knowledge of these islands. To the east is an island chain called the Djinni’s Claws. I have been told that there is a safe port there by the name of Kaff. That seems to me to be the most likely first stop on your journey. But there is danger as well, for it is said that pirates sail those waters.”

"Thank you for the information, Khalid. We will have to be wary; however, this ship has some special properties that may help us to avoid such dangers."

It's amazing to Yusef how quickly he seems to acclimating to this weather - almost as though it were a part of him...

Rat wrote:“Zakhara,” Rat repeats. “Yes, I’ve heard the name once or twice in Elcadan. It’s far to the west, across a desert from Cynalon. It would be a long walk back.”

"Lucky for us, we don't need to walk," Yusef replies with a smile.

Rat wrote:“Oh, nothing to worry about,” Rat answers, shrugging it off as nothing serious. “Brandobaris is the Master of Adventure and Misadventure. His tales and exploits are the stuff of legend. He keeps my life from becoming dull and frankly, I’m probably better off for it!”

"I shall take your word on that," Yusef says, though in truth he's not so certain.

Rat wrote:“Aye, that sounds grand to me! The chance to travel and secure treasure? What halfling wouldn’t want that? Well, other than seven or eight good meals per day! Let’s get a move on! There’s grand adventure to be had and fabulous treasures to be found! Cap'n Rat is ready to set sail!”

Yusef laughs. "I shall endeavor to keep you well fed, Master Finder."

The evening before they leave, Yusef has several meetings. First, he gathers his crew together over dinner. "Thank you all for joining me on my travels, for however long you choose to do so. It is a pleasure to have such fine company. You each bring unique knowledges and skills which will contribute greatly to the success of this voyage.

"It is my plan to travel mostly at night. I think we should sleep during the hottest part of the day, and I will use the blessings of my patron to help ease the effects of the heat upon you - unless you prefer otherwise. Part of the reason for this decision is that this ship has the ability to fly at night! Thus, we can use that ability to avoid many normal dangers and ease our travel.

"Any questions or concerns?"

Afterwards, he will seek out the village leader, al-Samsi. "Chieftain? Would you lend me your wisdom? Having been born in a far-off land, I believe I am officially a citizen of that land. However, my time here has convinced me that this is my true home. Have you any idea how I might go about officially becoming a citizen of Zakhara?"

His last stop is to visit his mother. "Mom, it has been the greatest pleasure of my life to be reunited with you and see you returned to the land of our family. I pray that you have found the happiness here that you were denied in my father's lands.

"Unfortunately, I feel it is time for me to continue my travels. As you mentioned shortly after we arrived here, it is my nature and my calling to travel the wide world. However, this will always be my home and I will return here whenever possible.

"Be well. I love you." Yusef will hug his mother one last time, unsure if she will still be alive next time he returns.

Post Continued:

Yusef wrote:"The decision is entirely yours, Khalid. We will drop you wherever you wish along our route, and you are welcome to remain with us as long as you like."

“We shall see where fate takes us,” is Khalid’s though on the matter.

Yusef wrote:"Thank you for the information, Khalid. We will have to be wary; however, this ship has some special properties that may help us to avoid such dangers."

“Avoiding trouble is always a good thing,” Khalid will agree.

Yusef wrote:The evening before they leave, Yusef has several meetings. First, he gathers his crew together over dinner. "Thank you all for joining me on my travels, for however long you choose to do so. It is a pleasure to have such fine company. You each bring unique knowledges and skills which will contribute greatly to the success of this voyage.

"It is my plan to travel mostly at night. I think we should sleep during the hottest part of the day, and I will use the blessings of my patron to help ease the effects of the heat upon you - unless you prefer otherwise. Part of the reason for this decision is that this ship has the ability to fly at night! Thus, we can use that ability to avoid many normal dangers and ease our travel.

"Any questions or concerns?"

“It appears that I will have a new part to add to my tale,” Khalid wryly notes. “We shall see how well this works.”

“You’re telling a joke, right?” Haji states in disbelief. “There are many reefs in these waters. To safely avoid them will be a great boon, along with the other dangers of the seas.”

Yusef wrote:Afterwards, he will seek out the village leader, al-Samsi. "Chieftain? Would you lend me your wisdom? Having been born in a far-off land, I believe I am officially a citizen of that land. However, my time here has convinced me that this is my true home. Have you any idea how I might go about officially becoming a citizen of Zakhara?"

Al-Samsi considers for a few moments. “Sacred Zakhara is always with you, Yusef. It is in your mind and in your heart. If you wish to consider this land your home, than who can say otherwise? I can write up an official proclamation should you so desire, but do you really need a piece of paper to tell you what your heart knows to be true?”

Yusef wrote:His last stop is to visit his mother. "Mom, it has been the greatest pleasure of my life to be reunited with you and see you returned to the land of our family. I pray that you have found the happiness here that you were denied in my father's lands.

"Unfortunately, I feel it is time for me to continue my travels. As you mentioned shortly after we arrived here, it is my nature and my calling to travel the wide world. However, this will always be my home and I will return here whenever possible.

"Be well. I love you." Yusef will hug his mother one last time, unsure if she will still be alive next time he returns.

Mom will hug Yusef back and shed more than a few tears. “I wish you well, my son. Be safe and return home so that you can be with us again.”


Back at the ship, Haji has already settled into the smaller cabin. Khalid is there as well with his meagre belongings as he travels lightly. Rat is as ready as he will be. All are ready to set sail.

GM Notes:

Okay, when are you going to depart? Morning? Evening? And what direction are you going to go in? Cynalon is more or less due east from here. Such a course takes you over both water and land. It all really depends on how fast you want to reach your destination.

Now what?

Rat:

Yusef wrote:The evening before they leave, Yusef has several meetings. First, he gathers his crew together over dinner. "Thank you all for joining me on my travels, for however long you choose to do so. It is a pleasure to have such fine company. You each bring unique knowledges and skills which will contribute greatly to the success of this voyage.”

“Well, my taking part in this venture was someone else’s idea, but I am glad for it,” Rat adds.

Yusef wrote:"It is my plan to travel mostly at night. I think we should sleep during the hottest part of the day, and I will use the blessings of my patron to help ease the effects of the heat upon you - unless you prefer otherwise. Part of the reason for this decision is that this ship has the ability to fly at night! Thus, we can use that ability to avoid many normal dangers and ease our travel.

"Any questions or concerns?"

“Sounds good to me!”

Rat begins to make himself at home on the Wanderer. He’ll frequently be found up in the crow’s nest, which he calls the Rat’s Nest, while sailing. The area below decks where extra sails and gear is stored is just perfect to accommodate a halfling. Rat will set up a bed down there for some privacy.

“’Bout the only thing missing here is a nice fire to warm my feet by!” Rat notes. “Although given this heat, I doubt my feet are going to get cold anytime soon.”

“Let’s shove off and see what’s out there! Arrr, thar be treasure and adventure to be had!”

Yusef:

Mad wrote:“It appears that I will have a new part to add to my tale,” Khalid wryly notes. “We shall see how well this works.”

“You’re telling a joke, right?” Haji states in disbelief. “There are many reefs in these waters. To safely avoid them will be a great boon, along with the other dangers of the seas.”

"No joke, my new friend. This ship is very magical; I'm not even certain what all it is capable of yet. No doubt this will be a grand adventure for us all, and I doubt you will have any lack of things to build stories around, Khalid."

al-Samsi wrote:Al-Samsi considers for a few moments. “Sacred Zakhara is always with you, Yusef. It is in your mind and in your heart. If you wish to consider this land your home, then who can say otherwise? I can write up an official proclamation should you so desire, but do you really need a piece of paper to tell you what your heart knows to be true?”

"It is not I that I need to convince, chieftain. Perhaps I was a slave too long, but it seems prudent to be able to establish my loyalties and fealties. Such a document as you describe may prove helpful at some point in the future."

Nerita wrote:Mom will hug Yusef back and shed more than a few tears. “I wish you well, my son. Be safe and return home so that you can be with us again.”

"I will, Mom. Take care of yourself." There are more than a few tears in Yusef's eyes as he departs.

Rat wrote:“Well, my taking part in this venture was someone else’s idea, but I am glad for it,” Rat adds.

"And I am glad you are here to share this adventure with me."

Rat wrote:“’Bout the only thing missing here is a nice fire to warm my feet by!” Rat notes. “Although given this heat, I doubt my feet are going to get cold anytime soon.”

“Let’s shove off and see what’s out there! Arrr, thar be treasure and adventure to be had!”

They depart with the evening tide. Yusef has taken the opportunity to rest and meditate through most of the day, so he'll be ready to stay up most of the night. Shoving off, they sail out of Sams Bandar, waving to any on shore that may have come to see them off.

Once full night falls, Yusef attempts to coerce the ship into rising above the waves and into the sky. His intended destination is the city in the Djinni’s Claws that Khalid mentioned. If it works, he'll try to stay well above the waves, but low enough to navigate and see any lights from their destination (i.e., below normal cloud level).

Post Continued:

Yusef wrote:"It is not I that I need to convince, chieftain. Perhaps I was a slave too long, but it seems prudent to be able to establish my loyalties and fealties. Such a document as you describe may prove helpful at some point in the future."

The chieftain will provide you with the document you want. He will add, “You are always welcome in our village, Yusef. Pleasant journeys to you.”


The Wanderer sets sail late in the afternoon. There is a small crowd to see the ship off and all of the family are present to say their last goodbyes.

As the Wanderer sails away and before you try out the flying ability of the ship, Khalid will provide his first tale.

“This is a story I learned about the islands we are sailing towards. The natives fear the larger islands of the Djinni’s Claws for they are believed to be the property of the marids. Several legends support this claim, the most popular being the Tale of Iftikhar.”

(Marids are a type of water-based genie.)

“In the days of the First Caliph (honor be upon him), the Word of the Loregiver (blessed is the Word) spread across the sands from the brilliant Huzuz to Makabba, and this was good. But when the great mamluk Iftikhar al-Dawla, Pride of the State, Bearer of the Law, reached the shores of the Golden Gulf, the blue waves laughed at him. Searching along the coast, Iftikhar finally spied an old fisherman tending to his boat. Loudly did Iftikhar hail the fisherman, ‘O’ worthy ancient, grant me passage across the sea so that the wisdom of the Loregiver may be known to all men.’

The old fisherman answered, ‘Courteous is your greeting as the wise man should be, and across the mad-waved sea I will guide you. But the word of the gods interests me not. By what means will you reward this humble servant?’

So great was Iftikhar’s need that he did not strike down the man. ‘My service and my life are bound already. I have naught to give you but what my lord as given me,’ the great general cried out. ‘Speak and say what you would have of him.’

Then the old fisherman pointed across the waves. ‘See across the waters those islands of green? These my children and their children after them shall have as granted from your lord. Then shall I carry you across the waters.’

And Iftikhar know the heart of his lord, the First Caliph, and said, ‘As it is said, so shall it be, my lord will grant those islands unto your children and your children’s children.”

Then before the eyes of the Pride of the State, the old fisherman rose up to become a giant. Taller than the palm was he, blacker than the Cave of al-Kamil was he. ‘See, O mortal man of flesh, that I am a lord of the Fourth Quarter, and these islands shall be held by my children when your children are dust.’ With that he swept Iftikhar across the waves in a single breath. And so have these islands belonged to the marids ever since.”

Once way from the island and night has fallen, Yusef tries the flight ability of the Wanderer. He concentrates and the ship begins to rise up from the waves! This understandably astonishes the passengers. The movement of the ship on the waves ceases and flight becomes smooth. Rising up a few hundred feet, Yusef has the Wanderer fly on generally eastern coarse.

As the hours pass, the sense of motion becomes hard and harder to sense. There are no landmarks in sight on the ocean, just the waves passing below and the clouds up above. The night passes peaceful as just as light is beginning to illuminate the sky, a pair of small islands is noted below. Realizing that the Wanderer will not be able to fly much longer, Yusef lands on the water once more close to these islands.

GM Notes:

Flying ships have a movement rate conveniently called Move. This rating indicates how many standard hexes (the 24 mile variety) a vessel can move in a 24 hour period. Or in other words, it’s the Miles Per Hour rating.

The Move of the Wanderer is based on its controller’s level; in this case it’s 8. So while flying through the atmosphere, the Wanderer moves 8 miles per hour. That may not sound fast, but if you consider the fishing boat you were on moved about 2 MPH, it’s a great improvement.

Based on all of this, you’d guess that you flew around 100 miles from where you started. The two islands near where you landed is about halfway to the Djinni’s Claws.

Now what?

Yusef:

al-Samsi wrote:The chieftain will provide you with the document you want. He will add, “You are always welcome in our village, Yusef. Pleasant journeys to you.”

"Thank you, Chief al-Samsi. May your path lead you and all of Sams Bandar to a bright future."

Yusef greatly enjoys Khalid's tale. "Thank you, Khalid, for sharing this tale. It seems one must always be wary of trickery."

At his mental urging, the ship rises into the air! Yusef is surprised by this, and silently berates himself for his lack of faith. "It seems that much of what I have been told is true. Praise Celestian! His gifts are truly marvelous." The speed as they fly appears much greater than through the water.

Morning begins to lighten the horizon, and Yusef brings the ship back down to the waves. Having noted islands nearby, Yusef will approach them and seek a good place to weigh anchor while they rest.
______________________________________________________________
One thing I've been wondering about: It was mentioned that the ship can fly at night, and even travel out among the stars. It seems like it would take many days to make a trip like that, so it must not have to land during the day under some conditions. Is there some height it must reach where it is no longer affected by the day/night cycle?

Post Continued:

Yusef has taken the Wanderer on its first flight. The trip took the ship about halfway to the next chain of island’s: the Djinni’s Claws. The Wanderer sets down near the shores of two small islands. Neither island is very large and seem to be more like giant sand dunes than inhabited islands. Reefs surround most of the islands and Yusef picks a safe place to weigh anchor.

The day will pass quietly and travel can continue on that night. The Wanderer rises up into the night sky once more and continues on a generally eastern course. Near the end of the night, lights from a town can be seen far off in the distance ahead. The town is on a larger island that is surrounded by a string of smaller islands.

Khalid believes the town to be Kaff. However, you’ll be unable to reach it before having to land. Choosing one of the smaller outlying islands, the Wanderer lands once more. Best guess would put you about sixty miles away from Kaff.


--

Yes, the ship is not subject to the night limitation out in space, only while in the atmosphere. Celestian is the God of Space and the Wanderer can function there without limitation. The higher you go up, the less the limitation becomes and the faster the ship can go. Once completely in space the Wanderer can move Faster Than Light, much like the Blackhawk did when it took you home.

So, for instance, you could go straight up and out of the atmosphere, FTL to above your destination and then come back down again and land. Of course, you could only land at night and not during the day.

Yusef:

The second night wanes as morning draws closer. Rat is the first to note lights in the far distance. As they descend toward the water, Khalid identifies the lights as the town of Kaff that he had mentioned earlier. As best they can tell, the town is still a good half-night or so away. Thus, Yusef decides to seek harbor once again. They can get extra rest and finish the trip with a leisurely flight that night and be ready to enter the town early the next morning.

Perhaps the island will provide a little food to augment their stores... Yusef will try some hunting in the early morning after they weigh anchor, and some fishing in the evening after they have rested.

Since they don't need to leave until around midnight, Yusef will ask Khalid for another tale that evening.

Post Closed