Megan's Curse of the Crimson Throne (Inactive)

Game Master Megan Robertson

The Church of the Dawnflower looks somewhat bedraggled in the rain, and its precincts are still recovering from the aftermath of the plague. A large heap of discarded bedding and other materials is smouldering in a corner of the normally-tidy courtyard, and all the religious look tired.

The High Sun Priestess is willing to receive the party, and to hear their dire news. She's a greying lady by the name of Eodora Elodia, known for her wisdom, kindness and fondness for good food.

"This is sad news indeed, friends," she says. "Yet it serves to confirm what we have felt, that a deep evil is stirring and reaching out from somewhere under the Great Mastaba. We pray that the Dawnflower's light shine upon you in your work. Is there anything that we can do to help?"

Ashe accepts what hospitality the Dawnflower's faithful can provide with gratitude.

Thinking quickly, "Now that you mention it Milady Elodia, Could I purchase two {Potion} Oil of Bless Weapon from your temple ... if you have them available?"

Ebon Wings little likes the gods temples, and sees Ashe has negotiations well underway.
With a mental warning to Majenko that he will scout the way Ebon Wings takes to the sky and flies far, far above the city - out of bowshot. From there he flies over Old Korvosa, attempting to mark sites of trouble and especially where the Grey Maidens lurk.
perception: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (4) + 16 = 20
Having little luck at spotting anything in the chaos from his elevbated position he soon gives up and returns to the Justicars with what little information he has gleaned.

Varrel allows Ashe his admissions to the Dawnflowers clergy.
He had a great amount of respect for Sarenrae's Dervishes and was a practitioner of the Scimitar himself. What's more the queens proclamation at the castle had showed her hand. She would have no allies in the churches of light.

You will need to have yourselves prepared. The queen or whatever is influencing her had shown that she is after absolute power in Korvosa. Apparently replacing the Senschal and the old one nowhere to be seen, along with disbanding the city protectors not directly under her control.
She will move against any who seem a threat. You would do well to take measures to shield yourselves from retribution while acting for those who cannot. We go to see how we may best contribute. If it comes to direct confrontation and I believe it will, my sword and spells will be on your side.

If the Sun Priestess' have what he requests Ashe will pay his 50gp for each and take his leave with a blessing upon them for their aid.

Returning to his steed he mounts up and tells his companions, "I have final preparation to... acquire. Its probably.. 'not-pointless' but maybe unnecessary; but I would feel better prepared doing it none-the-less. It will not take long.. I promise. This way."

Ashe rides off again bearing Jaessa with him a bit more sedate in pace.. but he in fact does not have far to go - as he pulls up to a Weapons Store in the Heights District. Not one regularly frequents.. but it is nearby. He enters says a brief greeting to the proprietor who is at first suspicious but seeing Ashe's fine clothing seems put at ease. Apparently, Ashe does not know this man... but Ashe quickly finds what he's looking for.. a shortsowrd. Which he confirms with the proprietor is crafted of alchemical silver.

Then Ashe casts some measuring gazes at Graxer... as if trying to ponder a puzzle.

Then he asks the proprietor to see if he has any foreign... weapons made of alchemical silver... specifically piercing weapons. To which Ashe is shown a barrage of weapons some poorly crafted or obvious sold in trade. Likely, a more common store not int he Height's district would not have this kind of selection - which is likely why Ashe went to a weapons shop in the heights as nobles and likely wealthy foreign travellers frequent these shops and thus much more odd and exotic examples of weapons come through the selection of weapons. Alchemical silver weapons are always on hand in Korvosa as the locals are quite mindful of the flocks of imps that frequent the environs of the city from the students sometimes improper summonings at the Acaadame.

So after a little of a search Ashe finds a Alchemical Silver Nodachi to his acceptance hefting the weapon he stands it next to Graxer of course the blade is taller than him.. but he seems satisfied. Ashe purchaces both weapons.. probably for more than their worth but Ashe does not haggle.

Sheathing the Shortsword Ashe slips into his satchel-like/large belt pouch at his side that is his enchanted Handy Haversack {along with the 2x oils of Bless Weapon} and the Nodachi he sheaths as well and stores it int he polearm sections of his enchanted Efficient Quiver.

Turning to the party,"My preparations are done. I have only to speak to my mother one last time before we go find the 'Captain' of the "Starfish" and arrange out boat tripe for this evening. Is there anything any of you would like to arrange or need to do?"

(@Megan - I assume any weapons available as mundane weapons would be available in a large city like Korvosa that is a trade center for many far away lands)

{For all your information, Ashe is being a little paranoid here. The last few times there have been a Harrow reading... the cards have come up literal. He does not know if it will happen again.. but he is certainly sure that a Rakshasa is a terrible foe! So he is gathering a couple more weapons to deal with one should we happen to face one. The silver piercing weapons and oils of bless weapon are a precaution.. probably a wasted precaution but might not be. For all I know the 'Rakashasa' was purely metaphorical. But this is Pathfinder.. I'm taking the hint!}

Did you roll knowledge:planes to know Rhaksasha were vulnerable to Alchemical Silver? Lol. Just kidding. Ashe does have ranks and could have looked up the answer or checked with an ally off camera

Actually he did make that roll a page or so ago...hmmm.. I'll post it again.

Ashe's eyes widen in surprise... and at the sight of Zellara he calms and smiles warmly back.

He ponders the Harrow cards in his hand setting them down to regard them closely.

His training and continuous studies of many subjects both mundane and magical give him some insight as he regards the... grim Harrowing.

Past, Present, and Future... "The Demon's Lantern", "The Fiend", and "The Rakshasa"... all evil cards, non-inverted... very foreboding!

'The Demon's Lantern' - Past, Chaotic and Evil, key suit of dexterity...
"An Impossible Situation... in the past.. we are all alive and well.. perhaps we have dextrously avoided the threat?"

'The Fiend' - Present, Lawful but evil, Hammer suit of strength...
"Many losses in a calamity... in the present.. there have certainly been.. Many looses.. but are their more losses in the present we have yet to discover?"

"And the most disturbing one..."
'The Rakshasa' - Future, Lawful but Evil, Tomes suit of Intelligence...
"A sinister card indeed. Dominance and mind control ... in the future... some powerful and malevolent intellect is dominating or mind controlling the wills of others. An enslavement."

Ashe ponders the dark Harrowing intently, remembering that many of the past Harrow from Zellara have been in some respects literal... painfully so!

Kno {Planes}: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (17) + 6 = 23
- Info on Rakshasas

Ashe ponders.. demon's and fiends... he was already fairly equiped to deal with such foes... but Rakshasa's... very dangerous foes... very good at hiding until they revel themselves ...evil outsider shape-changers. Very hard to affect with magic or weapons. Ashe remembered from his Vudrani Music studies a... nursery rhyme.. told to children warning against the manipulative and cruel Rakshasa..

"Fear the tyrant tiger,
that walks like a man."
"Fear the cruel hungry ire,
and the inverted hand."

"Run, Run, Run..."

"Or with whitesmith's bounty,
Face the tyrant beast.
And with heaven's blessing,
Pierce its wicked breast!"

"Run, Run, Run!"

Ashe cast his gaze at the shortsword at his side... piercing, Silver. "Perhaps I should make arrangements to have more silver piercing weapon's and oils of Bless Weapon at hand?"

This was page 106. A Rakshasa is a CR10 creature so its a DC20 to Id .. with one question... special defenses.

High Sun Priestess Eodora Elodia says "You work in the service of light, I shall gift you the potions you desire. May the Dawnflower shine upon you wherever you go."

Ebon Wings, it appears that Grey Maidens are not very imaginative: they are stationed on the bridges over to Old Korvosa and at major points along the docks only.

Yes, Ashe, you do find your alchemical silver weapons.

Thx Megan!

Ashe makes his purchases and leaves the weapons shop... pondering his next moves.

He sighs, "I... thought I would go inform my mother about the latest developments... but... I think I'll just trust to the Field Marshal's promise to protect our loved ones. In truth, I'm... just not ready to face mother with the loss of my uncle. She will NOT want me to get involved anymore! I really don't have time for an argument with her. My.. mother can be very devious when she does not get her way... best to leave her in the dark lest she do something unexpected and ... unwarranted."

"...I-I know that's a cop-out, but events are taking place that are bigger than me and my family. Let's go to the docks and find 'Captain' Callatra to arrange our clandestine evenings passage to Old Korvosa."

Ashe regains his saddle on 'Redhoof' and heads out toward the docks of Midland District... just North of Citadel Volshynek...

Majenko nestle a little closer in the rain, tightening his stingered tails in his perch around Ashe's armored shoulder & upper arm.

The Docks look mostly abandoned with dark warehouses and mostly quiet fisheries. Sailors and dockworkers on the boardwalks move quickly and furtively seeking shelter as the rains get heavier. The ships and boats at dock look almost skeletal as yard arms and main masts stir softly in the downpour all the while the sound of the surf and rain mix to make a constant droning cacophony of falling rain.

Ashe leads the way to the fishing boat "Starfish"...

The Starfish is indeed tied up at the wharf. A solitary deck-hand can be seen mending a net, otherwise it looks deserted.

Ashe dismounts and walks forward looking at the familiar fishing boat.. passing a discerning eye over the boat... trying to see if the boat is still being well taken care of or seems to have been used recently for plying her trade.

Perception: 1d20 + 7 ⇒ (10) + 7 = 17

Addressing the deck hand, "Aye, Ship's mate... where be 'Captain' Callatra... he still lives does he not? I'm 'Ashe' I need to request the 'captain's services of the "Starfish" once more."

"Hello," says the deckhand looking up. "Oh yes, I recognise you. Went diving in the middle of the river... easiest day we had for ages. Fishing's hard work. The Captain is asleep below. We was out night-fishing last night. I'll get him for you."

The deckhand sets his net aside and vanishes below.

The boat looks in good condition if a bit faded and weathered.

Ashe nods accepting the deckhands answer with relief ... he had feared that the 'Captain' might have been a victim of Blood Veil.

Ashe walks the pier to the slip where the "Starfish" is moored but out of respect does not board the boat... only wishing to be closer so he does not have to inform half the docks of their intentions and may discuss in quiet exchange with the captain his ... evening request for passage.

A Raven flutters down to the deck behind sight, and is suddenly Ebon Wings

While we wait for 'Captain' Callatra to meet us.. Ashe takes the time to divy up the party resoruces...

To Ebon Wings he gives several potions and a wand...
Potions - 3x Cure Moderate Wounds = heal 2d8+3; Shield of Faith = +5’deflction’
Wands - Cure Moderate Wounds = heal 2d8+3 (30 charges) [2,700gp; 90gp/ch]

To Jaessa he hands several potions as well...
Potions - Barkskin +4; Blur; 3x Cure Moderate Wounds = heal 2d8+3

To Varrel and Graxer he gives each a potion of lesser restoration.

To Damoc he gives...
Potions - 2x Cure Serious Wounds = heal 3d8+5, Remove Disease

To Majenko he slips a potion of Cure Serious Wounds into his adventurer's sack... eliciting a cracked open golden eye and a chirp of appreciation from the 'cat-napping' tiny dragon on his shoulder.

He smiles and tells them all, "Use these to aid your efforts on our behalf.. they are yours.. there is no need to feel you must pay them back. We are a team.. we are the Justicars!"

[OOC: Treasure list and loot updated. Note.. I ONLY keep track of items the party finds.. never items you each individually purchase.]

Callatra comes up from down below, barefoot and looking half-asleep. He smiles at the sight of you.

"Come aboard, do... have you another expedition in mind? We have been struggling a bit lately, two deckhands died of that nasty plague and we haven't managed to hire any more. Not that I could afford anyway... but I babble on. Can I offer you a tot of rum?"

Ashe smiles and follows the captain onto his boat, "Thank you kindly Captain... indeed we do have another... 'expedition' in mind. I'm sorry to hear of your lost crewmen... it ... we did all we could as fast as we could. And Yes, right now a mug of rum would do me some good."

Ashe waits until all are below decks in the Boat's cabin and takes a long drink of rum before he begins.

"I understand your having hard times Captain, I'm sorry about that... things are.. developing that are beyond our control. We hthe Justicars need one final passage and likely weather we succeed or fail will matter little ...we will have to leave Korvosa for a time. I don't want to endanger you by telling all the grim details but after you help us.. I might suggest to do some fishing up north east near Harse for a time... while things in Korvosa resolve themselves - its going to get MUCH worse before it gets any better in Korvosa."

Lowering his voice conspiratorially, "We need passage to Old Korvosa Captain... the Field Marshal once contracted you to help us but has no funds to pay at this point considering the terrible losses in the Guards due to the plague. I don't have much but I'm willing to pay you for your help. The Justicars need to get on the Ilse of Old Korvosa, unseen and unhindered by the Queen's Grey Maidens. I might suggest this evening just after twilight but not before complete night sets in under cover of evening gloom before all light fades."

Ashe reaches into his belt pouch handy haversack and sets a bag of 100 gold coins on the Captain's chart table along with a potion of remove disease.

"We may also need passage off Old Korvosa... I'll send Majenko here to inform you of the pick up time and location if we need. Just hoist a red pennant from your main mast top so Majenko can find your ship in the sprawl of the docks. Can you help us Captain? I don't want to seem overly dramatic but many lives are at stake in Korvosa if we don't find our quarry in Old Korvosa!"

Graxer pulls an additional pouch filled with 100gps and hands it to the captain.. "Im sure we can further pay you after a stint in Old Korvosa.. Our enemies seem to be well funded so.." He offloads his gear from his horse and stows it on the boat..

Ebon Wings also pulls out a hundred gold, though his pre-immortal existence screams at him for doing so. Reluctantly he hands it over.

Callatra rubs his nose. You notice that the captain appears thinner than he was, and somewhat worn.

"Old Korvosa has been under quarantine and still is... but you know that. We waterfolk have not had much contact since the bridges were destroyed. Both Bridgefront and the Old Dock have descended into anarchy, and anyone wise does not berth there any more. The Arkona family, who used to provide at least some stability, have retreated into their estates in Fort Korvosa leaving the rest of Old Korvosa to the self-styled 'Emperor of Old Korvosa.' He's a dodgy fellow with a finger in many unsavory places, name of Pilts Swastel. His main stronghold is at the east end, the Old Docks, but his tentacles spread everywhere. Anyways, I reckon I can land you somewhere on the north side, the Grey Maidens aren't around, nor most of the rough sorts Swastel encourages."

He eyes the money you have placed on the table hungrily, but doesn't touch it.

[OOC: Huh? Pilts.. did you add this guy or is he part of the module?!?!? This was the same fella Ashe wanted rousted from the Exemplary Execrebles, the once -Temple of Arden Ashe wanted to reclaim for the Inheritor]

Ashe's eyes sharpen with an intensity burning with something akin to righteous fury, "Pilts Swastel?!? That low-life vermin has taken over Old Korvosa?!? Wasn't he just some parasite dog that ran the Exemplary Execrables-Theater of Perversion? If he is terrorizing the citizens of Old Korvosa with thugs, I'll take great pleasure in ENDING him!"

Ashe turns an angry gaze Varrel's direction,"..I think you and my circle Brother Deriven have been correct friend Varrel! I should have started putting down these rabid-dogs in Korvosa sooner.. and perhaps some of these opportunistic vermin would not be here to savage the innocents of Korvosa! Mercy is becoming distasteful in the light of all the evil that just seems to be waiting for the right moment to rear its ugly head. I should have stormed that villain's hive and ended him... be damned the complaints~ when I had the chance over a month ago! Now things are the worse for it!"

Varrel's heart breaks a little.
The paladin WAS falling into vengeance. It could support him and make him strong. But would Imoedae support such a man, or try to save him?

Vengeance is a dish served cold Ashe. Calm yourself, for in anger we lose reason. Our immediate need is to get to the island. When we find Pilts, we must be sure it is he and he is guilty. Then he will meet retribution. There can never be doubt Ashe, for a misstep taken and Zellera's card might ring true.

He takes the gold off the table and places it in the captain's hard.
Your aid is welcome. May your god bless you.

He turns back to Ashe.
You need air and guidance friend. I would suggest you look over Korvosa from the quiet of the rear deck and focus on what needs saving, not killing. For that must be what guides you.

Ashe grimaces scowling in frustration for a few moments then sigh, "..perhaps you are correct Varrel. I.. just get so angry when I know when to act and 'officials' get in my way... letting evil curs like this Pilts get away with hurting people! I have no doubt Pilt's is guilty .. I've warned about him for some time, no one had the will to act... I should have."

"I have not forgotten the Harrow either... perhaps I'm just still grieving at my uncle's death and angry he did not let me assist him...?"

Ashe smirks at the irony of Varrel counseling calm... but Varrel is MUCH older than Ashe... and has had Many decades of life experience Ashe has yet to even live two!

So with a silent nod of acceptance Ashe takes his friend's advise and makes to leave the cabin, "...I'd suggest we all not stray far but return at twilight for our marine assault this evening."

Ashe leaves the "Starfish", first loosening Redhoof's riding gear to allow the roan mare to relax a little - giving her two apples from the saddle bags before walking the pier, seeking one that reaches the farthest out into the river...

Reaching the end of the pier Ashe gazes over the Jeggre River as its waves lap at the distant shores and pier pilings.

His thoughts turn to a pair of lovely green eyes and a short-haired blonde woman dear to his heart... longing painful.

Eventually, he takes a seat on one of the pilings and bows his head in prayer to his Goddess for her safety and the success of the the Justicar's efforts.

The river's sounds creeps into his awareness... the serenity of the solitary moment... the lapping of the waves, the crying of distant seagulls, the sight of the docks across the river in the East Shore city districts.

Then Ashe realizes Majenko is trilling softly to him! A gentle serenade of fluted chirps.

Ashe pets his friend and smiles... enjoying the... timeless moment, letting his concerns... slip away with the flowing river current...

A name burns in his heart... Trinia...

Jaessa had slipped off Redhoof as the group approached the boat. She stayed a moment longer, however, to stroke the horse's mane and whisper "Good girl," with a smile.

She smiled wide, getting to see the boat for the first time. "I've never been on a boat before, does it always rock like that? Even when it's tied up?"

Jaessa had been disheartened to hear Ashe say such terrible things. She decided to take a walk to clear her head. Strolling along the banks of the river she reflected on what she knew. She didn't know who this terrible man was, but she believed in her heart that no one was below mercy. If the circumstances were against it, she would have no qualms ending his life. Like if he threatened to kill her or those she cared for. Her sorrow did not lessen, and she returned to the dock feeling almost as bad as she had when she had left.

A seagull swoops down and grabs a fish head off the dock. Another arrives and the two birds squabble over the treat, quite ignoring the pile of fish guts nearby.

Graxer finds a nice spot to lean back on.. He then breaks out his smoking pipe and sparks up a bowl..

Yea nvm about those buffs with us hanging out for hours..

Eventually, perhaps an hour or so later Ashe returns.

He walks over to 'Redhoof' pulls out a grooming brush and brushes her down thoroughly... much to the 'red' mare's approval.

Ashe seems calm, and self-contemplative.

Petting his steed one last time he says to the horse, "Forgive me girl... but it will likely be a long time before I see you again."

Stepping back Ashe reaches into his large belt pouch-like satchel Handy Haversack at his side... and pulls out a large heavy leather scroll tube. Pulling the cap off, the srcoll tube opens unfolding like a map revealing Many pages with shifting magical script within. Ashe pages through them.. apparently they are alphabetized and pulls one page from the tube. Rolling the tube back up and capping it he returns it to his Handy Haversack belt pouch.

Ashe reads the scroll and incantation in Celestial amounting to a prayer..

When the magic takes effect 'Redhoof' glows and vanishes replaced by a stone figuring where the mare was once standing but only 6 inches tall looking like a toy figure carved of a reddish smooth stone... almost life like in its resemblance of the now gone horse. The scroll paper is burnt up leaving no trace of it passing.

Ashe picks up the little toy-like figurine and smiles, placing the figurine carefully into his Handy Haversack large belt pouch-like satchel.

Majeoi watches the whole casting with interest from his perch on Ashe's shoulder, {Nice trick!}

Ashe then boards the fishing boat... taking up a seat on the prow pulling his cloak about him and his hood up leaning against the gunwales of the vessel to try to nap until time to leave.

Majenko nestles under Ashe's cloak at his shoulder to get out of the rain himself as well.

To the party Majenko's voice is heard in their minds as he reports, {Majenko here.. Ashe says to all the spellcasters that he has a large scroll tube in his magic haversack that has 2 copies of every spell available to Bards and Paladins of the 1st circle power... they are all in alphabet order. He says he's telling you all this so if he is somehow incapacitated you will know where the scrolls are and how they are organized as some are of a divine nature and some are arcane nature and many of you might make use of them in emergency!}

{Graxer will relay that he too has a large supply of scrolls and potions on his body.. Not everyone on his spell list, but a good number of the more useful ones.. Labeled Scrolls of the 1st, 2nd, and 3rd order.. He has numerous labled potions as well.. All of this resides in his own Handy Haversack..}

Varrel, who merely meditated or read his spellbook over the hours acknowledged the messages with a similar response about his own allocation of scrolls and wands, the message mostly directed at Damoc whom he'd spent most of his time with one the prow of the boat.

Mostly because the wizard was the only one who could use most of his gear.
It was nice to just chat with the young and brilliant mage. For he had just a keen intellect and retained a thrist for knowledge despite his abilities.
In Varrel could see Damoc truly felt a man who had to drop his dreams in order to please his family. And while becoming a wizard bought him power beyond the mundane it was a hard vocation and he wanted to learn to use the sword.
It was nice to have another friend.

Cantrell prepared a fish stew for everyone aboard early afternoon. He sent the deckhand ashore to find the rest of the crew ready for a departure at dusk, apparently - or so the message ran - a large shoal of green snappers was rising to the north of Old Korvosa and they were going fishing for them.

Ashe will wake at the kind offering of stew and will give his appreciative thanks to Captain Callatra. He will eat only a single bowel wishing not be overly full but does get a second bowel with smaller portions for Majenko whom he wakes from the perch at his shoulder. He returns to his seat on the deck at the prow of the "Starfish" leaning against the gunwales.

Occasionally Ashe will join Varrel and Damoc in arcane discussions .. mostly asking questions and commenting on clarifications of his own studies into the arcane... though limited to a bard's scope.

But mostly he listens - taking in the knowledge of the two sharp-minded arcane casters to add to his own knowledge.

Eventually Ashe quiets and drifts off to sleep marshaling his strength awaiting the coming river-trip to and challenges of Old Korvosa.

Jaessa gladly shoveled her first bowl down in what seemed to be the blink of an eye. She sighed contentedly as she lowered the bowl to the table once more. She hadn't eaten since before Ashe's birthday party, where everyone ran off without so much as a dinner roll.

She humbly asked for another bowl and this time she took her time tasting the stew. It was actually quite good, and she gave the cook her compliments. She felt a bit nervous, now on the cusp of a real adventure, full of intrigue and mystery. Nothing so exciting happened back at the abbey, and every so often her spoon would lose it's contents as her hand shook. When this happened, Jaessa would close her eyes, say a prayer to her goddess, and smile.

As dusk fell, several of the fishing boats along the quay prepared to set sail, the Starfish amongst them. With Cantrell at the helm, the boat glided out over calm water. Overhead, stars began to pop out in a clear sky. There was just enough breeze to give the boat steerage way.

Once well away from the dock, Cantrell informed his crew of the real nature of the trip, adding "But we'll see if we can catch something on the way back. Not to worry, you will be paid anyway."

"Ahoy the boat." The voice coming from the sea was small and almost lost in the vastness of water that surrounded it. But looking over the railing of the ship does reveal a small raft with a tied on oar and a makeshift sail of sorts. The seven stars of DESNA are painted on the sail of colored silks, and a woman dressed in a red hooded robe stands on the raft as though the buoyancy of the vehicle meant little to her.

Ashe was at the prow of the small fishing boat "Starfish" hearing the hail and not a 'halt in the name of the Queen...!'... he stands from his sitting position on the deck back against the Boat's gunwales to turn and seek the source of the hail in the evening twilight.

Spotting the Redhooded woman on the raft gets a curious reaction from him... she is obviously not a fisherman or sailor.

Ashe looks over at Captain Callatra... who shrugs himself having no clue of the sudden appearance of the make-shift craft obviously not entirely suitable for the swift currents of the Jeggare River.. especially in the evening when the tide is going out.

Ashe addresses the lady, "Hail, ma'am.. are you in distress or in need of assistance?"

"Neither, but I know that you are. Can you help me up? You must be the Paladin."

She attempts to guide the raft closer to the Starfish.

She notes with interest that Ashe will look around for potential threats.

"I'm quite alone, I can assure you, but please look if you need to."

Ashe pauses... {No one is supposed to know were here...!}

He casts his gaze up and down the river... looking for other craft or signs of Grey Maiden pursuit... then makes a judgement call seeing nothing apparently out-of-odds or obviously threatening nothing more then the woman who obviously knows very little of small craft.

"Uhm.. hang on ma'am.. don't destabilize your raft.."

Thinking, {Majenko my friend... I need you assistance please...}

Turning to Captain Callatra Ashe secures a towline and handing one end to the tiny amethyst-colored dragon that comes out from under his cloak on his armored shoulder flexing his wings who snatches up the line in his talons.

Calling back, "I'm sending a tow-line over with a friend... secure it to your ..uhm.. to the oarlock your using, NOT to your mast! We'll draw you in... if you tie it to your mast.. we might capsize you when we draw you to us. ok?"

With that the tiny dragon hissess and with a flap of his wings takes flight the tow line in his tallons...

Out of the evening gloom a brightly colored house drake/psuedodragon flaps over to the raft. He's about the size of a large cat some 3 feet from tip of stingered tail to snout and colored a pretty shade of amethyst. He transfers the line to his snout and flutters close to regard the woman with a chirp, then lightly drops the cord into her hand. He continues to flutter hovering back and just out of reach... tail twitching languidly...

Strangely there are two obvious Ioun Stones orbiting the tiny dragon .. and apparently he is wearing some kind of... 'barding'... would be the best way to describe it.. with a belt with many even tinier pouches...

Words resolve within her mind for his telepathic speach, {Hi I'm Majenko! Do you work for the Queen of Korvosa?}

{No, Majenko. I work for no one, except perhaps DESNA as she reveals the mysteries to me.}

She attaches the line to the oarlock, and waits with never-ending patience for her raft to be pulled next to the boat.

Ashe lends a hand to slowly and carefully so as not to draw the raft in too fast to swamp it with the two other fishermen from the "Starfish's" crew.

As the craft draws nearer Ashe regards the woman opening his senses to the presence of evil to regard her... and relaxes finding no evil radiating from her.

[Which would be the case even if she were evil as she's wearing a amulat of proof versus detection and Location... but Ashe certainly could not tell that.]

In no time the raft is draw along side the "Starfish" and Ashe politely offers her a hand to board the small fishing boat.

Ashe notes her Varisian dress and style of clothing unconsciously smoothing his garishly colored Varisian Scarf at his neck, and greets her in traditional Varisan fashion, "Greeting stranger, from a stranger; but perhaps not so unknown to you it would seem? You say we are in distress or in need of assistance? You seem to know of my religious affiliation who are you known as milady?"

"A moment, a moment, kenaspa." She says, as she finally crawls onto the fishing boat. She spits once in her hand, and draws the symbol of protection on the railing of the boat as she boards. She looks around at those she can see, also attempting to sense if everyone is trustworthy. "Let me meet the rest of your group, away from prying ears, and I will reveal all."

Her red robes give off a faint hum of magic, perhaps perceptible only to those used to such magics, and her features are still mostly obscured by the hood of the robes, but the robe is decorated with Varisian tattoo symbols along the trim, mostly the seven-pointed stars in silver and gold thread.

She gets a good look at Asherick. "Your hair is white. I did not expect that. But you wear a beautiful kapenia. Doesn't really go with the rest of you, but despite what you might think, you're a man of some contradictions." She states this matter-of-fact, as though reading out of a book of history or traditional lore. She looks around again, apparently more nervous from the fishermen aboard the boat.

Ashe regards the woman... with a nod. At her mention of contradictions he lowers his eyes.

"Yes. I know...", his tone says its not something he is proud of... anymore.

But he answers, "My hair is white from birth.. a Wight tried to devour my mother's lifeforce when she was pregnant with me. My father and a Priest of Pharasma saved us both. The Priest channeled holy positive energy into us both... it left its mark on me and gifted me with a sacred touch."

Taking his Kapenia in hand, "My mother wove it for me herself..."

From the heft of the scarf in his hand and the metal fringes it is obvious to her trained eyes the scarf its not only reinforced and pocketed but also a weapon of silver if the glint of its edges is true.. and from the way he hefts the scarf.. he is not unfamiliar with how to use it efficiently and with deadly accuracy... the balance on it must be masterful!

He turns, "I'll go gather the rest of the Justicars in the cabin below decks."

Nicely done, everyone, you have managed the introduction well... maybe I'm not needed anymore!!!

Callatra offers the use of his cabin, instructing one of the deckhands to retrieve the raft.

Jaessa had heard the commotion, she loved being at the prow of the ship (a word she had just learned) and watching the water move before them. Somehow she had missed seeing the woman on the raft as they sailed on past. She came over after hearing her call and watched as Ashe and the sailors pulled her small raft ever closer.

When Ashe had finished speaking with her, Jaessa took the opportunity to introduce herself. She jabbers on for a moment, "Hello there! My name is Jaessa, a priestess of Desna. I must say, your little raft's sails are quite interesting, but I have to ask, who are you? Please forgive me if that seems rude, I've been told I can be rather blunt." She finishes, blushing a slight shade of pink, realizing she may have been to forward once more.

Graxer eyes the newcomer up and down.. His eyes are squinted as he's obvioulsy concetrating on something.. Rotating Detect Alignment till he gets a ping.. Once he see's neutral good he'll release the grip on his sword a bit.. Approaching.. "Well met Zalania, I am Grazer Firebeard, Swordthane of Gorum.. Good to have you along on our journey.."

Should be noted that Zalania hasn't revealed herself yet to everyone. But she is about to do so. Also, Graxer, Zalania does have a amulet of proof against detection and location, so you'd technically have to make a caster level check to get past that.

She gathers those who come up to her on the deck of the boat. "Let us gather in a more private location. Below deck would be better." She pulls them around her as she descends into the hold, casting a backward glance at those still on the deck.

Once they are in a more secure location, the strange woman stands up straight and her red robes melt away, with a few sparkles of light, revealing a woman dressed in red, blue, and purple Varisian silks, gold and silver threading throughout. Around her head is a red and gold headscarf, and she wears large golden hoop earrings and bangle bracelets.

Beneath her headscarf, a tattoo peeks out from under the edge: the lower two prongs of the seven pointed star and a purple-blue butterfly wing to either side.

At her throat is a large star sapphire pendant in a silver and gold filigree setting, of spectacular craftsmanship. The star of the sapphire is unusual, in that it has seven rays instead of six.

"I am Zalania Sapphros." She swirls her kapenra (shawl-scarf) around her, and it seems heavier than the others, double sided again in blue and purple, with a few twists in the fabric to show off either side. As the scarf again settles on her shoulders, she holds a deck of Harrow cards in her hand. "I've been led by Desna to find you here (of all places). But here is just as good a place as any."

She draws cards from the Harrow deck, dealing them out face up to each of those present, surprisingly revealing each of the cards they personally received from the haunted Harrow deck. She finally holds up the last card from the top of the deck, so that the others can see it: The Wanderer.

"And this is where I am now. Exactly where I'm supposed to be, which is nowhere at all, really." She says the last with a curious smile.

Let me know if you don't yet have a personal card given to you by the haunted Harrow deck.

Jaessa looked at her card, knitting her eyebrows trying to puzzle it out. Giving up she handed her card back to Zalania. "I'm sorry, but I don't know much about the Harrow. Can you tell me what this means?"

I just joined, and so did Ebon Wings, so I don't have a personal card or anything.

"Let me see, The Publican" Her linguistic pronunciation of "the" is a little off, and she pronounces it with a Z sound at the beginning.

"Someone who provides for others, food, nourishment, companionship. As a priestess of Desna, perhaps that fits you well." Her head twists a little, as though she were listening to invisible voices. "But perhaps you also have lost your home. Deception flows easily through the streets of Korvosa, and often at the most inopportune times."

Ashesmiles sadly.. staring at the his card, 'The Marriage'... and again his thoughts are drawn to a certain pair of pretty green eyes and shoft short blonde hair... 'Trinia'.

He hands the card back and says, "If the 'Songtress of the Sphere' has seen fit to direct a blessed Harrower to our company to aid our efforts we can only welcome such a fortuitous bless of divine assistance."

Reaching into the large satchel-like belt pouch at his waits Ashe pulls forth a battered and worn wooden box sized for a harrow deck of cards...

"I think you should meet our ... Ghost harrower, Lady Zellara..."

Opening the box Ashe takes out a deck of unique and magical Harrow Cards.

This deck is beautifully hand-painted, images decorate this Harrow deck, the frames gilt in silver so that under lighting they sparkle and flash but the deck is quite worn. Despite the worn condition of the card backs, the images on the faces are so vibrant they seem to move when viewed out of the corner of the eye. The deck itself handles with surprising ease, almost shuffling itself. A bent, torn, or lost card always seems to mend itself or reappear when no one is looking. The cards have the ability to repair themselves if badly damaged.

And a presence is felt upon the cards as if the cards themselves were aware and watching all those in the cabin...

"Lady Zellara, yes. We have met. In dreams, not too long ago, now." She is perplexed by the cards that Ashe holds up. "Interesting, 'twas she who said the Harrow would be the guide in the days to come. And I of course believe her."

She holds out her hand hesitantly, almost superstitious of the power that flowed through the haunted deck. "A strong spirit within, yes."

Zalania's own deck is also quite beautifully made. Solid black cards with gilt edges, bright jewel tone colors glimmered in the elegant designs.

Ashe chuckles softly, and muses, "Ah...of course. Dreams..."

Then recites softly,

'I know you,
I walked with you..
once upon a dream.'

'I know you,
That look in your eyes..
Is so familiar a gleam.'

'And I know its true,
That visions are..
Seldom all they seem.'

'But if I know you,
I'll know what you'll do..
You'll love me as once..
The way you did one..
Upon a dream.'

Perform: Sing 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (17) + 8 = 25

The words are pretty but the cadence is sad... and his eyes look far away at someone his heart is longing for...

Then he looks up, returning back to those present, "Ah, forgive me... I'm sure Zellara would have drawn you here and the need is urgent indeed. Welcome Zalania Sapphros to the Justicars!"