We'll have to ask him.
But, seeing how many weak people are around the church entrance, with desperate mothers holding children, Nargun doesn't dare using his strenght and bulk to open a road, and instead apologises to everyone without too much effect.
With women, children, and the sick in the crowd, Nargun is loathe to push too hard to navigate a path through the begging morass, but Devan, seeing the bigger picture, has no such compunction and takes the lead. Shoving, jostling and elbowing when necessary. They may it nearly to the front, just short of the steps that lead up to the vault when a bald man, his bare head covered in red sores, grabs Mirela's arm. "Ain't you a healer, miss? Can you help me? I am faithful but now got the veil. My children's gonna go hungry if I die from it, and these bankers won't help none, won't even take coin. Surely, miss, you'll do a stranger a kindness? Give me the blessing of Old Deadeye, and I'll give my tenth to you instead of these greedy bastards." His grip on Mirela's arm has not lessened, and the intensity of his demand is a bit startling.
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Mirela tilts her head and looks at the man thinking for a moment before answering.
When she does speak it is in a voice that carries to the crowd beyond just this man.
In the "On Work" section within the Parables of Erastil, My lord teaches: "The integrity of the upright guides them, but the unfaithful are destroyed by their duplicity."
Her eyes narrow and her voice hardens.
Consider this in your 'our of darkness. I do be knowing of two upright people who just today have recovered from your sickness. But you, who approach me with guile, trying to steal what you have not earned, remain sick.
Now I strongly suggest you let us by. For the sake of the worthy in this city, we go to try to see if we can get the Bankers to change their stance on this sickness. But the longer you do be 'olding us up, the less chance you 'ave to get 'ealed by them, as you will get no 'elp from me.
Devan kept his eyes forward as he pushed ahead through the crowd, eyes on the prize as the group approached the steps leading to the entrance to the Temple. It was only when Mirela started speaking loudly behind him that he realized that something was amiss, his eyes narrowing as he turned and saw the bald man's hand on the redhead's arm, gripping tightly. He held back as Mirela exhorted the man clutching her to let the group by, wisely choosing to not attempt to heal the man in front of the gathered crowd. He watched tensely to see if the sick, desperate man would release her or not, figuring that the clerics of Abadar would likely leave the group to its own devices, likely even being relieved for the small reprieve from the masses' attention.
Twilight was very uncomfortable as she followed Devan through the crown. Being this close to so many sick people, especially after her own affliction did not sit well with her.
She turned towards the sound of the bald man's voice as he pleaded with Mirela. Twilight flinched involuntarily when she saw the sign's of the man's disease, but the feeling passed quickly, replaced with anger when she saw that he had grabbed Mirela's arm.
Twilight glared at the man, but said nothing as Mirela rebuffed him. She was actually quite satisfied with the way the priestess turned down the man's request, especially considering his transparent attempt at deception.
A moment later, Twilight's ire was tempered with pity. She could understand the man's desperation. She had no wish that he die for his affront, and yet there was nothing to be done about his condition.
Atticus looks highly interested in the discussion.
This is a cruel decission, but a necessary one. I bow to her wisdom!
Looking at Twilight he shrugged.
"The gods give and the gods take. Still this is a strange illness!"
Seeing her mistress grabbed by a strange man and emotions running high, Whisper lets loose a low growl.
Heel girl! Mirela says sharply while never taking her eyes off the man holding her arm.
Whether its the growling wolf or the rebuke from the priestess, the desperate man drops his arm and melts back into the crowd. "The gods have forsaken us,"he mutters as he melts back into the crowd. That incident over, you push your way to the base of the steps where the paladins and clerics of Abadar have created a golden-armored cordon. As you approach the man in charge, face plate lowered on his armor and holding an ornately carved and lacquered crossbow, calls out. "The Grand Vault is restricted to those with holdings inside or dealings wit the church itself. State your business here, and I will judge you worthy to enter."
Devan's glare abated as the man let go of Mirela's arm and melted into the crowd, his eyes glancing at the faint mark of the man's fingers slowly fading from the priestess's skin. His gaze quickly rose to her eyes, and he smiled briefly before he turned about and led the rest of the short way to the wall of bodies fortifying the Grand Vault. Coming to a stop several paces short of the crossbow-wielder who seemed to be in charge, Devan called out, "We're here by invitation from Ishani Dhatri, a member of your order. Please let us pass and inform him that we are here. His friends from Trail's End, if you'll convey that."
As they awaited an answer or a runner to go retrieve Ishani, Devan spoke softly to his friends. "This situation is worse than we were led to believe, I think. Either that, or it has escalated rapidly. Even if these greedy bastards would bestow their blessings for free I can't imagine they could keep up with the spread." The bard's brow furrowed as he looked at the sea of sick humanity behind them, the desperation nearly a tangible thing in the air.
At a motion from the head defender, the cordon of mailed men parts, allowing you access to climb the grey-veined marble steps to the top fo the platform where the overly ostentatious Vault sits. The wrought-gold doors are closed, but a small side opens offering you admittance to a small but well appointed foyer. In a few minutes, Ishani arrives looking quite aggrieved. He leads you through the airy space of the Vault,across the spotless and reflective marble floor, to a meeting room that looks out over the western side of the courtyard, which is now filling with supplicants.
"I assume you have already seen the crowd and outside, and you must know what this means." He shakes his head sadly. "Poor lot. You recognize the symptoms too, I am sure. I had hoped the Soldado case, and the few we saw here before were isolated, but apparently we have a bigger problem on our hands, bigger than even I had feared. And I fear, the worst is yet to come."
"I am concerned for the city, but also for my brethren here. The first day I returned from the Soldado home, I came to the temple to find that three of my brothers awoke with similar symptoms, although they have since been healed. I spoke to each, and aside from their usual duties in the temple, none have had any dealings with any who are ill. As i told you, earlier today, more of my fellow priests -- acolytes, guards, vaultkeepers -- developed symptoms, and folk from throughout the city began arriving in search of healing. It's been more than a little bit frightening. They're all calllign the sickness 'blood veil' now, an apt name I suppose."
"Most of the patients we're treating here have come from North Point or Old Korvosa. The disease seems to spread fastest through the lower classes. Although we here at the temple can heal some of the ill, I dread the transmission of the disease will soon outpace our resources. The only way to stem the growing infection is to involve the entire city. We need to organize. We need to cal upon the faiths of Sarenrae, Pharasma, and even Asmodeus to face this onslaught. Archbanker Tuttle and several of the hierarchy, are out pursuing alliances with these other faiths, but even that won't be enough. We need to involve the Korvosan Guard and Queen's new agents the Grey Maidens, at the very least. That's where I can use your help, if you are willing.
I hear you have a good relationship with Field Marshall Cressida Kroft. With the number of desperate souls growing, it's not safe for a priest to walk the streets of Korvosa now. I was hoping you would agree to escort me to Citadel Volshyenek and make introduction to the Marshal?"
Ishani relates that he doesn't expect your assistance for free. He revels that he has already gotten clearance to offer a generous payment of 200gp per person if you will assist in his safe conduct across the city.
Wizard 0: Acid splash, Mage hand, prestidigitation, read magic. 1:Mage armour, Vanish, Magic weapon, (S)Colour spray.2:Spectral hand, Spectral hand, (S)Blur | Subtle misdirection 6/6. Bonded item 1/1. Pearl Lv1 1/1
Twilight balked at the mention of Asmodeus "Better to die now than sell the one's soul to eternal bondage and servitude. That is an alliance that will cost everyone far more in the future than is at risk right now." she said, her words dripping with disdain even as she took in the sheer opulence of the "temple". So much wealth that could be going to something better than lining these vaults.
"Is there any particular need to be walking the streets dressed as one of Abadar's faithful?" she asked, her interest suddenly piqued at the thought of a little misdirection. "If you are just looking for safe passage to the Citadel, I am certain that we can arrange that, if you are up for a little change in wardrobe."
"You should also understand that if you are seen walking one way, people will talk. But I would also like to know if your infected brothers share anything but the place where they live? Maybe the same public wells? Maybe they should start cooking their waters."
Atticus is getting worried. An invisible enemy, utterly without mercy and nobody knows how to get infected."[/B]
Mirela shakes her head at Twilight statement.
I don't be liking the idea of dealing with the followers of the Dark Prince either, but 'is followers may 'ave contacts in the legal underbelly of the city that the others do not be 'aving.
In the face of a an overwhelming threat like this it may a worth trying to to get an agreement with them to secure their 'elp. I trust the Banker is being careful with his agreement.
The Gods did it before to bind the Rough Beast, should we not do as much against something so overwhelming?
She glaces in the direction of the court yard.
I don't be thinking we 'ave seen the worst of this yet and that crowd outside is already worrying me.
Later: Picking up on Atticus's train of thought:
Lets see... North Point, Old Korvosa, Trails end. So clearly the source of the disease is in that north part of the city.
But given it caught Brienne, and she didn't go into the city, maybe it is something in the north part of the river? That is biggest thing that I can think of that do be connecting all three areas together. Do you be knowing if people working near the river be getting sick faster then others in the district?
Devan didn't know much about the different faiths, but understood that Asmodeus was a prince of Hell. That being said, with the horde of people already infected, if the Asmodean faithful were willing to help stymie the disease the City wouldn't likely be in a position to decline the help. Mirela's comment about a Rough Beast piqued his curiosity, and he made a mental note to ask her about it later. It probably would make a good song. The musician kept out of the debate, however, turning his attention instead to Ishani.
Not quite keeping the irritation out of his voice, the bard said, "So Tuttle isn't even here? Well, at least he's out actually trying to accomplish something." Not having had to deal with the crowd of diseased people would have been nice, but it seemed the Abadaran priest had a need for their help. Though Devan's view of their faith as a whole was less than sunny, Ishani personally was a likable enough fellow, so the young man felt a certain amount of obligation to help.
As the others started asking questions that might help to pinpoint exactly where the disease was spreading from, Devan slipped out the waterproof sack of silver sails Nargun and he had gathered from Clovis not long before. He handed the bag to Ishani once they were out of sight of the crowd. "Inside are the coins we found on the beggar near All The World's Meat. He stated he had just found them recently before succumbing to the Veil."
"Lets just say that I have no doubt that the Lord of Trade and the Prince of Hell could come to a perfectly amicable deal. But I would also remind you that Abadar cares little for what is traded or how the law is structured, only that order persists and coin flows. Chelliax being a shining example of an orderly society that thrives on the trading of slaves."
She sighed "I apologize, I don't mean to be contrarian, I'm not a fan of Sarenrae, but at least any deals struck would likely be to the benefit of everyone without strings attached. With Asmodeus though..." she shrugged.
Just treading on Abadar's holy ground left her feeling oppressed, as if she was being judged. And the prodigious display of wealth while hard working people barely scraped by irked her.
Ishani shrugs. "I am not opposed to traveling to Citadel Volshyenek incognito if you think that will keep us safe. I will, of course, have to reveal who I work for once we get safely to the Citadel."
He listens politely to the religious arguments, but eventually adds, "The threat we face here is more important than petty squabbles over dogma. The city could very well end if things aren't worked out, and while it is distasteful to rely on your opponent, its better than mutual destruction."
Finally, he takes the coins. "With your permission, I will have them looked at by those of my order to see if there is something amiss with these silver pieces."
To Mirela he replies: "We have not been able to piece together any hypothesis about how the infected have been exposed. They seem to come from random places, random levels of society, random ages and so on. If there is a root cause, it has eluded us so far."
With that, he makes ready to go to the Citadel to pay a visit to Kroft.
Atticus ponders for a moment and replies.
"Well while we are here, can we buy a few scrolls and a wand or two? We are in a dangerous business!"
Ishani smiles. "The Vault is always open to commerce, friend. What is that you will be wanting? Though I must warn you, the Bank is not selling certain items given the...ah, external environment."
Will the First Banker declare a quarantine on the city? That do be what you were concerned with when we last talked.
I think any can be seeing that it is needed.
"Do you have any clothing that doesn't mark you as a priest? Maybe a donation bin from which we could pull a few articles of clothing?"
Twilight rummages around to try and cobble together a reasonable looking outfit that won't draw attention while Mirela questioned the man.
"I wish people would just let me know what they want before asking us to trek all the way across the city. I have everything I would need back at the Juggler"
She takes a little lamp black and thins it out, dabbing a little here and there on the man's face just to make him look a little rougher around the edges so that he blended in with the common folk a bit better.
"Of course." Devan replied to the banker regarding the coins, rather pleased to be rid of the things. No amount of coin was worth the terrible death the beggar had endured. The bard nodded his agreement with Mirela's question, the situation having been part of his irritation. It might be more prudent for Tuttle to make alliances after a quarantine had been issued.
Twilight's suggestions, of course, were also reasonable and prudent, and the musician offered the banker his cloak to help with the disguise, if the Calistrian priestess thought it might help. To Ishani he said, "We can take you to Kroft, once our business here might be concluded."
Once any transactions were completed and they were on their way, Devan pondered over the strange and virulent disease and its origins, thinking back to when they first entered Korvosa after spiriting Trinia away. Something was nagging at his memory, and about halfway to the Citadel, it finally clicked. "Ishani, you said the folks with Blood Veil had mainly come from North Point and Old Korvosa, right? Do you all remember what we heard a couple days ago, about the ship that was sunk by the North Bridge? It was by Old Korvosa and North Point, and supposedly the folks in Trail's End could see the ship go down after being fired upon. Maybe it's a strange coincidence..."
Twilight uses the items available to fashion a disguise for Ishani. While they work, the cleric can only sigh. "I have heard the Crimson Throne will issue a quarantine, but its one of things I want to talk with your field marshal about. But at this point, I have little hope that a city-wide quarantine will help matters much."
Later, when you are on the road to Citadel Volshyenek, Devan asks about the rumors of the sunken ship and the disease. "Hmm," thinks Ishanit, scratching his bare chin. "I don't know if there ever really was a ship, or what was on it, but if you think the infections are more prevalent near the Jeggare River, maybe because of this mystery ship, then it might be worth looking into. Although, how would one look for a ship that may not exist, at the bottom of the river no less..." You ponder his words in silence as you make your way back towards the Citadel. The many shops and establishments along the way t the fortress are only thinly populated or closed completely. The first pangs of the blood veil are already affecting the city.
Reaching the Citadel poses little problem. In fact the crowds, which are heavy around the Grand Vault are almost non-existent elsewhere in the city. You pass only a very few citizens in your jaunt half-way across the city. The usually raucous streets are quieter, any business being conducted in a quiet conversation or a whisper as if noise might attract the lethal contagion silently sweeping over the city.
The guards at the gate greet you warmly; their appreciation for the many tasks you have already helped with, both officially and unofficially, evident. "Croft is with the Queen's Physician's," calls the watch sergeant - not Grau this time, but another man you have met before. "If you're looking for them, hurry on to the courtyard. They should still be there."
Ishani looks at you, the question about the "Queen's physicians" evident in his eyes as well. He motions you to come along, and hurries through the checkpoint towards the indicated courtyard.
The echoes of forcefully spoken but unintelligible words resound off the imposing granite and iron walls of the citadel's outer curtain. Dozens of red-and-silver armored guards stand in assembly upon the pitted stone mustering ground here, muttering in hushed, somber tones. Before them, atop a weathered wooden platform, paces Field
Marshal Kroft, her eyebrows, arched sternly as she momentarily tolerates the crowds' murmurs. Behind her upon the scaffold stand three grizzled veteran guards at attention, as well as an ominous-looking group. These newcomers wear cowled robes of oily-looking leather, supple gloves, and wide black hats. Some grip heavy canes, other dark satchels. Each of them, though, wears a dark-goggled mask tapering to a pointed beak. Among them stands two others. The first is a middle-aged gentleman in a simple black overcoat with streaks of white gracing the sides of his short, dark hair. He watches the gathered guards with a soft, concerned expression, his hand tightly clasping a heavy-looking doctor's case. The second figure is an imposing one indeed -- one of the queen's new Grey Maidens., clad in her resplendent plate armor and crimson plume.
The Field Marshal's fierce tone cuts through the rumble of whispers as she addresses her gathered guards. "You will escort Doctor Davalus and his physicians in their royal duties, wherever those might take them. Furthermore, you are to consider orders from any of the queen's Gray Maidens to be as binding as those of any superior officer in the Korvosan Guard. You are the Korvosan Guard. You will not balk. These are dire times, and your city needs these healers. Your city needs you. Your patrol leaders have your assignments. Dismissed."
As the assembly ends, the guards gathered in the courtyard break up into groups, many reporting for various duties while others loiter for a few moments to quietly gripe about their new orders.
Kroft, the Gray Maiden, and the strange doctors all head together in a cluster towards the citadel itself walking briskly through the knots of soldiers.
Ishani, you should probably remove your disguise before we approach Commander Kroft. While she may not put much stock in appearance, I would think you do be wanting your full authority when you address the others who in in console with 'er.
Now, who are those? Do you know that Doctor Davalus? Where does he come from?
Ishani assures you he has never seen nor heard of any of these individuals. He knows, of course, about the Gray Maidens as the Queen's own shock troops, but he has never met one before. As for Doctor Davalus and those in plague-masks, he does not know them either.
"Please, do make an introduction for me! It seems these physickers are here on related business."
He hurries to pull off the garments covering his white robes, and the other items of disguise.
A sense of foreboding, or maybe current-boding, washed over Devan as they left the Bank of Abadar behind and walked through nearly empty streets in the once-vibrant city. As the group passed shops that were marked as closed for business, the musician knew that the mystery disease was taking a heavy toll...it would take much to make a shop-owner close their doors, even on a relatively slow day. The bard's first inclination was to pull out his instrument and play a more lively tune as the group moved along their way, but decided it was more prudent to not call attention to themselves, as Ishani seemed to want to make it to the Citadel without being recognized as a priest of Abadar.
As the watch-sergeant waved the group in, Devan thanked the man even as he frowned in thought, wondering who the Physicians were. Seeing that even the Banker seemed perplexed, the young man withheld his question and walked with the others the short distance to the courtyard. He took in the scene, noting that the Guard itself seemed disgruntled at the orders, and that the newly-formed Gray Maidens had been elevated above the Guard. Unsurprising, really, but still an issue that could possibly be exploited if one were inclined to do so. Davalus himself looked the part of a physician, but his fellow doctors looked ominous in their strange masks.
Devan shrugged as Nargun asked about the physicians and Doctor Davalus, being sure he had never met or even heard of the man. The musician smiled and nodded at Mirela's wise words, glad she had kept her head enough to offer the sage advice to Ishani. After the priest of Abadar had shed his disguise, Devan led him and the others through the gathered clusters of guards to close on the group accompanying Croft inside the Citadel. He called out, "Field Marshal! A word, please!"
Atticus ponders for a moment if he ever heard of any word of Doctor Davalus in the Acadamea. Then he looks closely at Docter Davalus hands.
curious if the doctor has the telltale hands of an alchemist.
Keeping his polearm out of reach he looks at the group and whispers to the others.
"This indicates that the doctors are afraid of bad air and also infections via the bodily humors. Like coughing up blood. And if I understand the man correctely, he asks the soldiers to be ready to burn places. A necessary evil for sure, to save the city."
Even more softer he adds."I hate that!"
Atticus has not heard of a Doctor Davalus before, nor do the telltale stains and burns of an alchemist appear on his fingers, though Atticus does know there are learned physicians who are not merely alchemists and the Acadamae is not the only center of learning in the wide world.
When Devan calls after Field Marshal Kroft she turns with a cross expression on her face, but when she sees who it is, the hint of smile flashes upon her countenance for a brief moment. It is soon replaced with the stern features you have grown to expect.
The Field Marshal waves you forward and you are introduced to Doctor Reiner Davalus, head of the Queen's Physicians. He greets you warmly, bearing a polite demeanor. He is soft-spoken and deliberate in speech. The rest of the masked physicians nod in greeting but don't shake hands, nor do they give names. The Grey Maiden is introduced as quartermaster and second in command of that outfit, Kordaitra Destaid. She does not remove her mailed face plate or helm, but gives a curt greeting shaking hands.
The change in the city was remarkable. Where just last week there had been mobs rioting in the street, now the roads and alleys were nearly empty. Twilight thought back to the mob at the bank and how much worse it was likely to get.
When introduced to Reiner, she wondered if he was from the Acadamae. "Its a pleasure to meet you Doctor Reiner. And you as well Quartermaster..." Twilight left just enough of a pause to let Kordaitra correct her if she wished "...Destaid."
"I would like to introduce Ishani, representative of Abadar. He wishes to discuss the coordination of the Vault's efforts with the Guard and the Maidens to help deal with the current threat."
She waited for Ishani to make offer before she continued.
Mirela whispers to Devan
Maybe you should be introducing Ishani as the representative of the clerical orders? After all you speak better then the rest of us. But do be careful, we don't be knowing these doctors.
Then she settles to the back of the group keeping a hand on Whisper to make sure she behaves around all the strange people, and to try to discreetly watch this new group and figure out what the dynamics at work here are.
Nargun has no clue about anything.
Suddenly, he shakes Ishani's arm
Hey, about that thing about the boat under the river..could'nt you ask the fish, or another creature living in it? You know "Fishing for informations"...
Devan listened to the whispered comments and nodded his assent, drawing in a breath to introduce the cleric of Abadar, when Twilight introduced the man instead. The musician grinned and stepped forward, extending his hand to both Dr. Davalus and Sabina's second in greeting before shaking hands with Kroft.
That being done, the bard turned back to the Doctor and his physicians, cocking his head slightly to the side as he asked, "If you don't mind me asking, where are you lot off to after you confer? North Point and Old Korvosa have got the worst of it, from what I hear. Though Ishani probably has more details than I do. What curious-looking masks...I'm sure they probably are great at...whatever it is they're for...Atticus probably has some questions, but did you have to make them so menacing? Oh well, couldn't be helped, right?" Devan chuckled, clapping Davalus on the shoulder with what appeared to be good-natured ribbing. The young man laughed as Nargun joked with Ishani about the boat, though he did pay attention to the reactions of those present to see if maybe there was more than just rumor to the story of the mystery vessel.
The musician then stepped back, staying near Mirela and Whisper while watching and listening to the dialogue between Ishani and the physicians and Kroft. He thought about trying to flag the Field Marshal down, but the group hadn't changed their accommodations. The woman knew how to find them if she had need of them.
Destraid, the Gray Maiden, does not deign to reply to Twilight's proferred discussion, only maintains a haughty silence made more menacing by her closed face-plate.
Twilight has not heard or Reiner Davalus from the Acadamae either. He shakes hands and mouths appropriate pleasantries, but it is clear his attention is distracted by other pressing matters.
Ishani takes the cue from the introduction and details what he knows about the "blood veil" and the treatment of Brienne Soldado plus the dozens of citizens at the Grand Vault. The group listens intently without comment. When the questions about Old Korvosa and North Point come up, Davalus cocks his head to the side and says. "Yes, well, interesting. Worth looking into, definitely. But for now, my physicians and I must meet wtih the Field Marshal about how best to resource this outbreak. What we need is a sensible plan, i am sure you will agree. I invite you, Brother Ishani, to join our deliberations. YOur insight might be just what we need, yes? In the meantime, there is this..." He reaches inside his tunic and withdraws a rolled note, handing it to Ishani, who reads it and passes it to each of you in turn:
ATTENTION!
By decree of Her Royal Majesty, the Radiant Queen Ileosa, all citizens and members of the Korvosan Guard are to aid and admit the newly established Queen's Physicians in this time of urgency. These royal agents will extend healing to those who are ill, an organize defense against the spreading affliction known as "blood veil". They are to be allowed access to any home or building they deem necessary in the course of these duties. All those suffering from disease or disorder are to submit themselves to the Physicians for treatment.
To aid in the duties of the Queen's Physicians, know that the Order of the Gray Maidens shall also provide military support as needed. The Maidens answer directly to the Crimson Throne, and will be called upon as necessary to augment and strengthen the peace where city guards will not suffice.
Impeding or distracting the Queen's Physicians or the Gray Maidens int eh pursuit of their duties is punishable by imprisonment. Impersonating one of the Queen's Physicians or Gray Maidens is punishable by death. Knowingly harboring or hiding the infected is punishable by death. Purposefully spreading blood veil is punishable by torture, then death.
The Queen's Physicians will be making rounds of every city district henceforth until Her Majesty deems this misfortune has abated.
Davalus clears his throat loudly. "As you can see, we have lots of work to do. Shall we get down to the details?" Kroft sighs, and nods. "Of course, of course. Please go into my study and begin. I would like a word with my agents before I join you." She ushers the Queen's Physicians, the Gray Maiden, and Ishani inside and closes the dor, before directing you to a nearby empty office.
"I have more work for you, if you are up to it," she says hurriedly once the door is closed. "You mentioned the shipwreck in the Jeggare. I am curious about that as well. The Direption was sank in deep water, but I want it found and searched. Are you up to the ttask?"
"Well, this is for the good of the people. This is important. Of course I will aid!"
So the ship do be real then. This is going to take some planning.
She thinks for a moment then says:
There do be a blessing that I remember my teacher calling down once to search for a boy who drowned in a pond. It allowed the searchers to stay under water for a long time. I might be able to call that down, but I would need to pray over night for that.
She looks back up Commander Kroft
Would tomorrow be soon enough to do this task?
And I'm not a great swimmer... Does the guard have anything we can use that helps people swim better in the river?
What do you mean "swim in the river"? As if "swimming ON the river" wouldn't be enough? Don't you remember I'm the one who's supposed to be stark raving mad, Huntress? Water is sacrilege for me, as a follower of the Eternal Drunk. I don't mind rain, or the occasional bath, but swimming IN the river, surrounded by water? Don't you see I'm a dwarf? I live in or under mountains! Don't expect to me to go swimmin". Do you ask a boulder to swim? The only difference between a boulder thrown into the river and your idea is a well-place T!
"Well, at least the Queen is addressing the problem. That is an improvement over the Archbanker's apathy towards the epidemic."
Still, one line bothered her. She rolled up the noticed and passed it along. "If I may ask doctor, I am concerned about contracting the affliction. I have been wearing a heavy scarf infused with herbs to help avoid miasma.
Ever since we met I have been interested in the peculiar masks that your assistants wear, if you believe that they are good enough to protect them then I was hoping that I might be able to purchase one for myself. Would wearing such a mask be considered impersonating a doctor? Even if I ensured the rest of my outfit made it abundantly clear that I was not?"
...
Twilight thought about the fact that she also had an arcane solution to the problem of underwater exploration, however her recent shift away from pursuing arcane matters to focus all her attention on her faith had left her short on the knowledge of how to cast such a spell. Her divided studies were starting to hinder her advancement in either field.
Still, she was not adverse to the idea of investigating the wreck. She didn't know how to swim, but without the prospect of drowning she was actually excited about the idea.
At least it wasn't a crypt or sewer.
After reading the notice, Devan handed it back to Ishani, watching the physicians pile into the Citadel after Davalus excused them and Kroft stayed to have a word. He grew excited as the Field Marshal talked of the Direption, exclaiming, "I knew it! There's always a kernel of truth in most rumors!"
As it seemed Mirela could handle the issue of actually getting to the wreck, the musician was definitively in agreement with the proposed action. "Of course, Field Marshal. Will the crown be furnishing payment for our task?" The bard asked almost as if it would be out of character to not do so. Truthfully, he was just as eager to explore the shipwreck and help stop the spread of Blood Veil as anyone else.
Weren’t you listening Dwarf? The ship it did sink in the deep part of the river. Unless you have a clever way to locate it and drag it up, that means we have to be going down to it.
As Devan said this do seem to be mighty strange that the ship do sink and the next day the Blood Veil appears. Plus it is most heavily focused in the River right where it sank.
If you want to be ‘elping stop this thing before it do be infecting any more children, swimming do be what we need to do.
"Yes," says Kroft. "Tomorrow will be soon enough. I expect you'll need the time to prepare. I don't know if the Direption has anything to do with the plague breaking out, but the timing is suspicious, and several Guardsmen who participated in her sinking swear she was rigged with yellow lanterns. If you don't know, yellow lights on a ship indicate a plague ship, one that should be kept at a far distance. I can't confirm that as a fact, but it's possible. I can, though, tell you the approximate location of where the cog was sunk." She indicates a point on the map which is between Trail's End, Old Korvosa, and Northshore section of North Point. "the ship was fired on by guard from Garrison Hill on Old Korvosa abut made it this far before being sunk. Who knows what she might be carrying. Go find out! I can't promise you any reward this time, as this mission isn't exactly sanctioned by the Crown -- you can see the Queen has her own solution, but we will support you the best way we can."
She tells you that a pair of potions of water breathing for each of you will be sent to the Yellow Juggler tonight for your use in this mission. She wishes you good luck, and heads back over to her office for more detailed briefin with the physicians.
Before
Davalus considers Twilight's question before answering. "I'm no legal scholar, but just wearing the funny mask of my colleagues does not mean you would be impersonating a physician, especially if yo went out of your way to tell others that you were not one." He smiles a crooked little smile and after an uncomfortable silence, turns and leaves you alone.
Once the group had left the Citadel, Devan conferred with his companions as they made their way back to the Juggler (or wherever their destination was). "I was loathe to make this commitment in front of Kroft, but with the potions she is offering can we take to the water this evening? I can't imagine it's very sunny at the bottom of the river even on the brightest days. Or are there still spells and", he gestured at Atticus helplessly, "potion-thingies that you all would rather prepare?"
Though no reward was forthcoming, if he and his friends were able to salvage the wreck with only one of the forthcoming potions, the other would be worth a small fortune should they sell them. He suspected Mirela would frown upon it. He'd have to play it by ear. As they walked, he pulled his lute from its place on its back, smiling as he strummed it and heard the reverberating sounds wash over him. He had worried his skills had diminished, but he ought to have known better...the instrument had been his life, for a time. A connection to a better time. Glancing at the redhead's face, the musician amended that thought. A fond memory. Maybe he could offer a piece of that back to the people of Korvosa. As they trudged through the streets, he began to play, fingers gliding over the strings with easy familiarity as he plucked an upbeat song.
Once again, the tough dwarf with his heart on his sleeve get got by Mirela soft and wise words.
He grumbles a bit, just for the show, but the priest of Erastil knows he'll be there, down in the river, to do whatever must be done to save the kids.
"If we stop by the Juggler for a few moment, I can be ready for an underwater expedition today. Has anyone ever done anything like this before? Any sage advice gleaned through study or instructive stories of high adventure under the waves? Maybe a parable or two for hunting the denizens of the waters?"
Devan walked with the others back to the Yellow Juggler, excitement and trepidation mingling within him as they waited for the potions to be delivered and for whatever preparations were made by the other members of the group. To Twilight he replied, "I've only swam in the river...and haven't heard many stories from the Deep. Maybe about the Sea Devils and their tridents, but that is the deep ocean. I guess just make sure your weapons will cut through the water with minimal resistance, should anything be down there." For the musician, he set his instrument aside in his room, not wanting to risk the water damage to the aged lute. He then removed the colorful cape he had purchased not long ago, thinking it would be prohibitive to his movement beneath the surface of the river.
It would take a leap of faith to go down in the depths, trusting in the magic of the potions to keep his lungs full of air, but he had full confidence in Kroft and whatever she gave them to aid in the mission. It was likely just a strange coincidence, and the newly-formed physicians would likely find a way to curb the growth and spread of Blood Veil, but this excursion was worth a chance. He spent the remainder of his time building up his courage, keeping Mirela company if she wanted it and wasn't busy making her own preparations/prayers. Otherwise, he remained in his room, psyching himself up for the dive down to the Direption.
As they walk back to the Juggler, Mirela starts to build off of what Devan is saying.
Devan, your right, my bow isn't going to be much use in the water. I'm going to need something like a spear that the farmers use to fish with.
Let's see what else:
She starts counting off problems while following the others along.
Obviously swimming in Armor is going to be 'ard.
We can get around the whole breathing thing with these potions, but anything we take will get wet, so scrolls are probably a bad idea.
Ummm.... What about your spell component pouch Twilight, is that going to be a problem?
When we get down to the ship, it will probably be dark inside. We can't bring torches, so I guess we need to use magic to see. I don't be 'aving the blessing for calling light granted right now, so maybe it would be best if we do this tomorrow?
OH.... She looks down at Whisper. I guess you are going to need to stay 'ome too.
After they reach the Juggler, Mirela would make arrangements for someone to take care of Whisper (Feed/water and let her out).
Then she would join Devan on his shopping trip, both to spend time with him, and because she is looking to purchase a spear and a coil of Silk Rope. If they decide to go tonight and not wait until morning, she would also need to get a Ioun Torch.
Then when they finish shopping she would unloading most everything in her room. She will be taking only her: Spear, dagger, Chain Shirt, the smallest amount of clothing needed, Silk Rope, Belt pouch (with two water breathing potions) holy symbol and if needed the ioun torch.
Later at just before the time they aggree to meet:
As she finishes getting ready she joins Devan in his room and when the door is shut quietly says:
I know I said we 'ave to do this... but... the river scares me... I really don't want to....
"My spell components shouldn't be a problem. None are liquid and being wet won't adversely affect them. I will leave the scrolls at the inn. My magical pack as well, I'm not entirely certain what would happen if it was submerged, but I would rather no find out that I was carrying around a few hundred pounds of river water once we were done."
Once at the Juggler she left everything that would be ruined by the water in her room. Choosing what to wear was a little trickier, she didn't know what would be best suited under water. At first she considered simply going without, but thought better of it as being a little too vulgar.
Instead she chose a close fitting set of clothes of silk and light cloth. It shouldn't hinder her too much and would "accidentally" cling to her body when they exited the river until they dried. She chose dark colours so that they weren't too revealing when wet.
Once prepared she headed back down to the dining room and waited for the delivery of the potions.
As Mirela entered and spoke of her reservations about the coming excursion, Devan nodded his agreement, relaxing in the priestess's presence. "We don't know what's down there. It could be anything from a wayward vessel, to a ship full of dead plague victims, to something even more sinister. It would have been helpful if the Guard would have identified it a bit more, but I get their point."
The musician put an arm around the redhead's shoulders, smiling at her. They were of a height with each other, which Devan found comforting for some reason. "Perhaps it's a bit cliche', but bravery is being fearful of something, then confronting it anyway because it's the right thing to do. The fearless can't be brave." He looked to the window and the darkening sky beyond as he continued, "I can't say I'm excited, either. We know there's sharks and alligators in the River, not to mention what specifically might be down in the depths keeping the Direption company. But the City...She needs us. To the Nine Hells with the Queen, but the bakers, the laundresses, the people...a whole city of Brienne's. We probably will find nothing down there, but if we can help even save one of those unfortunates, it's worth it."
The young man grinned and pulled her close, "Besides, between Erastil, Calistria, and the crazy dwarf, I think we'll be just fine."
Atticus ponders for a moment."Maybe you could get an underwater crossbow. And I should get a decent piercing weapon. A ranseur maybe."