Krastus - Momentary Lapse

While looting the Dawn Raider we came across some interesting goods - The Captain got his sword, we found lots of money, a fancy crossbow for Carlton and Sira to fight over and a large blood dripping axe. Very odd. I quite like my warhammer, but the crew thought I should try it, and with the constant blood dripping we figured it might have been some kind of magical.

We lost little time in deciding to take on the Captain's shadow. We gathered on the rear of the ship, me with the axe, the others in safe places and the captain with his sword. He stabbed at the shadow which promptly seemed to writhe in place. So he signalled me to swing with the axe and I did and.....then I found myself holding the splintered heft of the axe, everyone around me looked bloody or winded and the captain was accusing me of attacking him. Clearly silly - though my head was clouded, very confused. Then we were attacked by this strange shadow.

Even now I can remember its cruel evil touch. How will I know when it might come for me? When it might be lurking? Or what else might lurk in those darkest of places? I shall have to be on alert - for the thought alone, I will admit here in private, fills me with dread.

Still, it disappeared and despite my advice to press the attack we continued on to land.

The crew meanwhile decided they wished extra pay, I thought it fair but the captain wished to argue. Still, the rest of the senior crew convinced him and we paid their requirements - as I pointed out, it was only those who had survived this long that wanted it, and the odds of them surviving much longer were relatively slim.

We got onto land and debated what we would do.

And debated.

And pondered.

And finally the captain dug himself a hole and got in it while we created a circle of logs with gunpowder and lamp oil to help them burn. The fire was lit, and I stayed close to it to avoid the shadows while the others attacked the shadow once it emerged. It seems it died quickly - but while everyone celebrates I can't help but wonder what terrible price we will pay later down the road for this.

Also we are debating what to do with the fragments of the enchanted axe. I shall continue to urge Sira to forge them with one of my spare hammers into a new second warhammer - while I work on my resolve. Still, this extra time at sea has allowed me to finish my study, even watching Helene has helped. I now boast mastery over all the elements, and have found balance. I can claim more than most can - I can claim to be an archmage. Though I think I shall be subtle about it for now - I do not want people trying to burn anything down.