1. Objects

The Pirate [Contract]

Business Venture
Treaties and Contracts

Sea Pirates are notorious seafarers who roam the open waters, seeking to plunder and pillage merchant ships for their own gain. Born from the rugged and treacherous life at sea, Pirates are individuals who have embraced a life of plunder and freedom on the vast open waters. They are fearless souls, sailing under the black flags, ready to strike against other world's merchant ships in pursuit of their own enrichment and the thrill of the chase.

Pirates hail from all walks of life, drawn to the freedom of the seas and the promise of great riches. Some are former sailors, disillusioned with the rigid discipline of naval service, while others are rebels, outcasts, or even escaped prisoners seeking a new life. The life of a Pirate is one of camaraderie and adventure, as they gather into crews under the command of a Pirate Captain, who rules with a mix of charisma and authority. Pirates are symbols of rebellion, freedom, and adventure. They navigate the treacherous seas, seek hidden treasures, and challenge the established order. With their unruly spirits and thirst for riches, Pirates continue to captivate the imaginations of both admirers and adversaries as they carve their legacy across the vast expanse of the oceans.

Training as a Pirate is often acquired through firsthand experience. Pirates learn the ways of navigation, sailing, and combat through trial and error, honing their skills in the crucible of battles and raids. They become adept at handling various weapons such as cutlasses, pistols, and muskets, mastering the art of close-quarters combat and marksmanship.

Uniquely, Pirates possess a deep understanding of the maritime world. They are skilled navigators, able to read the stars, charts, and currents to navigate treacherous waters. They also possess knowledge of coastal regions, hidden coves, and secret islands, allowing them to evade authorities and find safe havens for their crews.

Strengths

  • Nautical Prowess: Pirates are skilled sailors, adept at handling ships of all sizes, from nimble sloops to mighty galleons. They can navigate dangerous waters, exploit wind patterns, and make daring maneuvers.
  • Combat Versatility: Pirates are proficient in both melee and ranged combat. They excel in close-quarters combat with their cutlasses, and their expertise with pistols and muskets allows them to deliver devastating volleys of gunfire.
  • Intimidation and Charisma: Pirates are known for their charisma and ability to inspire fear in their enemies. They can rally their crewmates, negotiate with other captains, and strike fear into the hearts of their victims.

Weaknesses

  • Lack of Authority: Pirates operate outside the boundaries of law and society, making them targets of naval forces, bounty hunters, and other pirates seeking to establish dominance. They face constant threats and must always be on the lookout for rival crews and authorities.
  • Reputation and Stigma: Pirates are often viewed as criminals and outcasts by the mainstream society. They may face prejudice and distrust, making it challenging to find allies or conduct legal business.
  • Dependence on the Sea: Pirates' strength lies in their maritime prowess, but this also limits their mobility and influence to the coastal regions and open waters. They may struggle to operate effectively in landlocked areas or distant inland territories.

Business Venture

By hiring or sponsoring a Pirate Captain, a player party can establish a business venture that allows the captain and their crew to operate independently while the party focuses on their endeavors on the mainland.

The arrangement begins with the player party entering into a formal contract or agreement with the Pirate Captain. This contract outlines the terms and conditions of the partnership, including the duration of the venture, profit-sharing agreements, and specific responsibilities of both parties. Once the agreement is in place, the Pirate Captain sets sail with their crew for a predetermined period, typically one month, during which they engage in various activities such as raiding, trading, and exploring. Their primary objective is to acquire valuable resources and treasure from sea-based encounters and expeditions.

At the end of the month, the Pirate Captain and their crew return to the player party with a haul of "General Trading Goods" The amount of goods obtained is determined by rolling 5d20. This roll represents their plundering activities, reflecting the unpredictability of the sea and the fortunes it holds. The DM consults a pre-determined table or chart that corresponds to the result of the dice roll, providing a list of specific trade goods acquired during the voyage. The acquired goods can include a wide range of items, such as exotic spices, rare gemstones, fine fabrics or valuable wines.

Upon their return, the Pirate Captain and their crew hand over the acquired goods to the player party. The party then has the opportunity to sell these goods through various means, such as trading with merchants, selling to specific buyers, or utilizing their own connections and networks. The proceeds from the sales are then divided between the Pirate Captain and the player party, according to the agreed-upon profit-sharing terms.

The Pirate Captain's employment allows the player party to profit from the endeavors of the captain and their crew while they focus on their own adventures and pursuits on the mainland. As the party may need to negotiate deals, establish trade routes, protect their assets, and manage the risks associated with operating in the world of piracy. However, it is important to remember that the sea is a dangerous place, and the Pirate Captain's actions may have consequences. Engaging in piracy can attract the attention of naval authorities, rival pirate crews, or even vengeful victims of their plundering. The party must be prepared to face the potential consequences of their partnership with the Pirate Captain and navigate the challenges that come with their chosen path.

May 24th, 2023