Megan's Curse of the Crimson Throne (Inactive)

Game Master Megan Robertson

Ashe nods in agreement with the bishop, "..indeed an excellent idea!"

Then he asks, "..so Neolandis, Vencarlo~ where would you like us to take you outside of the city... we will be heading to Kaer Maga~ unless you mean to travel with us into the Cinderlands?"

Akina bows at the bishops praise inadvertently pushing her assets even closer to pouring out and onto the table of greedy eyes. "If I have anything, it is only because the church has given it to me. I happily return the gifts so graciously given to me."

Ashe smiles but politely avoids leering at the lovely Devout PHARASMAN...

Pondering mirthfully in silence, {Akina must be one of those young women who do not realize their own beauty... refreshing and familiar...}

And his thoughts turn back the years to his friendship with Tessara Kalisreavil... the Mierani Elven Ambassador's youngest daughter. Youngest being a 'relative term' considering she was over a hundred years old when she.. seemingly a teenage elven-girl to Ashe's, then ignorant eyes, took an interest in, the Age 12 Ashe, when they happened to meet at court.

Ambassador Perishial Kalisreavil was a common feature at court.. and had a.. rather infamous reputation ... as the "half-elf maker", for his many tempestuous trysts with the young women of court and ladies in waiting increased the half-elf population by uncountable/scandalous numbers! Tessara was indeed a daughter of his elven wife in Kyonin. Tessara was also a vision of beauty... a sorceress, fighter... and Ashe would learn a rogue and just as... lecherous as her father~ when she claimed his 'innocence' at the tender age of 13. Ashe was certainly easy-pickings for the beautiful Tessara's seductive manipulation and was quite shocked at his mother's open and frank utter amusement when she revealed that the Mierani ambassador's daughter was 116 years old and also infamous for her ... attraction to handsome young innocent boys... and some at court whispered even girls!

Ashe was so embarrassed at the whole matter; but his mother, Ankia, explained that among the Varisian's young men of Ashe's age were being betrothed and some wed and shouldering the responsibilities of protecting and providing for family on the caravan road.. but the 'sheltered' life he lived such was not needed. Anica did not think the matter objectionable... considering that elves even the most stable ones were beings of flighty interests... Tessara would find some other interest eventually; though she was known to have VERY exacting tastes in her conquests... only the most attractive were suitable for her likes!

Anica figured it was time for Ashe to get "the talking to", about how he would have to be careful around not only the Mierani Ambassador's daughter ... but also~ {and Ashe felt she meant Especially}... the young Chelish Ladies of court... for Ashe even at Age 13 was a handsome boy and clearly would be a heart-stealer as he matured; irresponsible 'sleeping about' with young ladies of the court and the scandal of potentially fathering illegitimate children was NOT acceptable behavior and dangerous! For indeed Ashe has no idea he was considered attractive and desirable ...until the frank talk with his mother. Ashe took her frank counsel to heart agreeing with his mother's concerns but it was likely this whole matter that inspired Anica when Ashe turned Age 14 to allow, Delia 'The Pure' to intensify Ashe's training and have him fostered in the distant IOMEDAEN Monastery for 2 years training to become a Paladin of the Inheritor.

Anica had been wrong though... Ashe and Tessara had remained close friends and on-and-off lovers eventually fellow Pathfinders. True enough Tessara was a rather flighty spirit never really committing to one lover or another, but the bond of their friendship remained strong. Tessara had told Ashe once she had a twin sister named Teressa and perhaps a very attractive half-elven sister whose sorceress blood was awakening... but Ashe never met the two. Ashe hoped Tessara was safe with all the wickeness in Korvosa... he'd not seen her in months since that fateful mission to Mwangi and Ashe's debilitating contact with the Azlanti Weapon at the Pathfinder Arcahological dig~ "The Rescue at Azlant Ridge", a the Society was calling the caper.

His thoughts then turned~ as always back to Trinia.. he wandered what she was doing... was she safe... did she think of him ever?

This is what happens when I just feel like writing...waiting for the story to move on.. {chuckle}

Inelukii notices Ashe's attention drawn to Akina and she smiles slightly. The girl was quite fetching, so not out of the realm of possibility that she might attract the keen eye of a young man. Yet she notices Ashe's thoughts turn inward for a moment, and some kind of doubt or curiosity cross his brow as he internalizes his attention for that brief time... I wonder what comes a paladin's mind that makes him look so wistful and wanting and... I don't know... concerned maybe? at the same time... Perhaps he misses a lost love and Akina reminds him of her? Perhaps they might come to laugh together and she ease his mind, though she is no Callistrian.

Jord attempting to distract himself from his own "thoughts" on the newcomers speaks up

"Shall we ake it a stealthy team to get them out or shall we all go and load ourselves up with subtle magics to aid ur getting away from any situations?"

Edmund has to take a moment to determine why his son has gone tense under his arm. He realizes that he should probably stop embarrassing the boy by hugging him in a room of strangers, especially when one of them seems to be overflowing her rather tasteless clothing, but he's reluctant to let him go just yet.

"I am not the stealthiest. My main training was frontal assault. Never really learned to sneak. But stealth magics will be welcome if that is the case and we need to make ourselves less known" he chuckles. One hand behind his head

-Posted with Wayfinder

"This is not a matter of stealth, but of subterfuge. A cart and horse for transporting the 'corpses' locked in coffins and carried by a priest of Pharasma can pass through any checkpoint in this city. The most stealth any of you would need is to not make noise in your coffin, and only those of you who are wanted would even need to be inside a coffin. The rest of you could easily be hired as guards the priest hired to keep grave robbers away."

Ashe adds in, "With the city STILL concerned about more outbreaks of Blood Veil.. no guardsman or Grey Maiden for that matter would hinder a PHARASMAN entourage escorting coffins they clearly announced were a threat to public safety!"

"Sounds like a good plan. Is there anything else we need to do first or should we leave the city right now?"

Ashe sighs lowering his gaze in obvious grief, "..I have a task that I must personally see too first. I need to lay Graxer Firebeard to rest... as proper for a worshiper of GORUM... He.. his friends are no longer with us... I am the last. It.. would be... unseemly and insulting to his memory for this to be left to strangers. You may attend if any of you wish or not as you choose. I.. am also very weary... I have not rested for now almost 36 hours; but I can sleep in the saddle while we travel~ if necessary."

"I didn't know the deceased, but if you'd like, I will attend. I trust you that he was worthy of honor, and while I wasn't a friend in life, he deserves those in attendance who will share your grief in his passing."

Ashe smiles wistfully, "..of course. Any who wish to, may attend... its more out of respect for Graxer that I feel the need to do this. His... closest friend.. is not here, but my heart would not sit well if he was not laid to rest with all due honors for a Son of GORUM, and a friend of mine. It... was my quest that resulted in his death, it is the least I owe him that I can honor him with."

"How did he die? Hopefully in battle against a worthy opponent?"

Ashe replies, "..Graxer was a mighty warrior. But in the Arkona undercaverns to their Vivified Laybrinth, they had spore infested animated Jann skeletal warriors bearing armor and wielding weapons they once carried in life. They were dead.. but not undead.. they were plants, resistant to elemental attacks and powerful warriors even in their dead but animated proto-life. They were not evil... so many of my abilities against evil and undead were useless. The spore-filled Corpses emitted a lethal aura of poisonous spores. The more you struck the creatures.. the more spores they produced. Graxer's mightiest swings with his greatsword only sped up the creation of more toxic spores. Graxer did not realize his danger before it was too late. I was forced to keep leaping around the cavern firing arrows at the creatures until they finally were felled. When we reached Graxer his lungs had been too filled with the poison to save him. I tried to use an antitoxin upon him.. but it was not enough. He died clutching my hand. He never faltered nor showed any fear; undoubtedly his mighty swings allowed me to fell them faster saving both Ebon Wings and I. At the end.. he smiled for me... I think he knew perfectly well his sacrifice was for our benefit. I could only watch him die..."

His tone is somber and pained... he is holding it in.. but undoubtedly to all his grief is bitter indeed.

Jord will stand guard outside any burial/funerary rites for Graxer

"I will salute your valiant friend. Died inservice of friend and honor. Death is never wanted. But a good death is all one can ask for." he bows his head in respect

-Posted with Wayfinder

Akina is somber in her calm, even response. "Go, and rest. I will prepare the departed for with his last rites. The funeral of a follower of Gorum is not for the weak or weary. I only ask you show me the weapon and armor he wielded in life that we may prepare his body properly."

Once everyone has finished their work, Akina will set to preparing the body. She quickly calls the acolytes to prepare one of the iron caskets the cathedral keeps on site. She also sends acolytes out the the smiths to prepare a rush job to reshape a masterwork greatsword and armor the cathedral keeps on site to be re-pummeled and refitted to resemble the weapons the fallen wielded in life. As the Acolytes return, Akina dressed the fallen, girding him for combat, his sword in hand, and lays him in the casket. She and the acolytes move the body into position to be viewed with the fallen original armor and sword placed on stands flanking the fallen.

It is traditional that followers of Gorum are always buried dressed for battle in new armor to represent the armor and weapons Gorum will give them in the afterlife. The weapons and armor they wielded in life are given to their comrades who make an oath to never let them collect dust. The weapons may be sold, but only to a warrior who intends to use them. They can not sit in a shop, but must be wielded in combat.

Her work finished, Akina sends the acolytes out to inform the other priests of Pharasma and the Justicars, old and new, that the funeral is ready to begin. She sets to polishing the departed's sword. Her hand idly rubbing the oiled cloth on the blade as her mind falls to a distant place.

"The paladin's pain was like a open wound, bleeding onto the table. I wonder, if that was what I looked like when I returned." She begins to speak out-loud to the corpse, "You would have been honored by his description of your last moments. He made you sound like a great warrior. Like Gorum himself battling against a fearsome horde."

Her thoughts turning inward again. "Did I honor you as much. My family fell, and I was so lost to sorrow I could barely speak. I couldn't even carry your bodies back. Just bringing a lock of hair from two of you. Hells, I couldn't even do that for you Neyd. There was nothing left but dust when you fell. At least I still had your book. I can't tell you how grateful I am I borrowed that from you. Finding the little notes you wrote in the margins were the only thing that brought a smile to this face these last few weeks."

Akina's hand falls to the pouch on her waist removing the book from it and opening the cover, reading the dedication inscribed there. The tear stained words were completely unreadable by now, but they were inscribed on her heart now. She closes the book and slides it back into her belt. The sorrow still weighed on her heart, but she was finally able to open the book without crying.

She rises, trying to shake her mind of the melancholy thoughts that had filled it. She replaced the sword to its stand and turns facing the door. Waiting for the attendants to arrive.

"I will also come and pay my respects to this warrior. He died as he would have wanted, fighting to protect his comrades"

Vencarlo Orisini speaks up.

"You were asking where we'd like to go. After the funeral for dear Graxer of course. I remember him well and shall also pay my respects. I think that we should go to the town of Harse. I have allies there."

Neolandus Kalepopolis nods in agreement.

"As I said before, I suspect some of the Shoanti know more about what has happened to Queen Ileosa and how to deal with the Crown of Fangs, the artefact that gives her this unholy power. Harse will make a good start, it's in the right direction."

Ashe accepts the two men's assessment of the situation, "...then it is decided, we go to Harse first."

In reply to Akina, Ashe will only shake his head and smile wearily, "... I will be fine for now, milady. I swore to myself, 'I would not rest until the evil of Arkona palace~ those responsible for Graxer's death were either crushed or sent fleeing from our wrath; the palace swept clear of their evil ... and Graxer laid to final rest before I would clean the grime of the battles we fought beside each other away or find rest myself."

"But your sentiment is well received~ I thank you!"

Addressing all present, "..I will be holding a brief ceremony at sunset to put Graxer to honored rest, unfortunately... the manner in which he died is a potential threat to the safety of any place he might be entombed. The plant spores animate the corpses of those killed by them.. but not as undead and not empowered by evil, the very divine protections granted by faith would be unable to detect the reanimation nor significantly harm a spore infested and reanimated Graxer. There is only one way to be absolutely certain Graxer's remains will not be defiled with such a insidious pestilence, I intend to cremate him with all due honors at sunset. Those that wish to attend may do so. I will be holding vigilance over his body laid in-state until sunset in prayer for my friend's noble spirit. There will be a viewing if some of you wish to attend.. after the PHARASMANS have prepared his body."

Iňuksuk leaves the others to bury the Gorumite. While it seems this one died while serving a just and noble cost, the Erutaki has met far too many of the Lord in Iron's worshippers to be utterly irredeemable and to work against peace and civilization. He is curious about the road ahead, "What do you know of Harse? I skirted the mountains and came to Korvosa through Janderhoff so know little of the towns that dot the plains below the Rise."

"I've visited Harse several times ..."

I take 10 for a knowledge geography of 20. I suspect that is enough for me to know everything on the wiki but that is obviously up to the GM

With the meeting adjourned Ashe takes his leave...

First he gets his wounds healed from the helpful clergy of the Temple and eats in quiet solace a simple meal of stew and dry hard bread with only water.

Then Ashe goes to the place of repose that Akina has diligently arranged for Graxer's remains to be arrayed in honor there he does indeed take up a prayerful vigil over his friends body; asking his goddess to smile favorably upon the valiant fallen warrior.

In prayer Ashe asks in humble silent supplication that he be gifted with the courage and determination to meet his end so nobly as this Son of GOURM - Inquisitor Graxer Firebeard.. his fallen friend.

Though the flesh is mortal Ashe's enduring fortitude sees him through the day's vigil; he taking a break only at noon for an equally light lunch and to personally prepare the funeral pyre that will be come Graxer's final resting place at sunset. Any who visit the place of repose who ask of him Ashe will regale them with tales of Graxer's deeds... not of his death.. but how he lived. And so the day wore on...

In the afternoon just as the sun begins to set Ashe calls for the acolytes to come and bear Graxer stately to the funeral bier that Ashe has prepared. Ashe himself being one of the pallbearers...

The funeral procession leaves the Temple Fortress of PHARASMA making its way from the Grey district into the South Shore District heading its way somberly under the shadows of the Pillar Wall to the cliffs crossing Field Marshal Way and just beyond Shoreline Way about 100 or so feet south of the South West gates into the Height's District of Korvosa proper. A drummer beats out a slow martial dirge as the procession approaches its destination.

The view of the sunset over Conqueror's Bay is a sight of shear beauty and the golden sun touches the waters making the entire bay seem to be made of liquid gold which glints and reflects in Graxer's polished steel armor. The evening tide is going out and the evening breeze of the sea is refreshing and smells of salt and foam.

Upon a bier of fragrant woods is Graxer's remains laid in honor, hands at his breast grip of a greatsword at his chest. He looks at peace despite his gruff features and calloused bare hands.

Ashe moves forward to take up a position with a torch in hand beside Graxer's funeral pyre facing the assembled attendees.

"I would speak the words of the 'Warrior's Prayer' to begin these proceedings before we lay our honored dead to rest."

Turning to face the setting sun; Ashe kneels...

"Gods of war I call thee,
My SWORD is at my side."

"I seek a life of HONOR,
Free from All false Pride!"

"I shall crack the whip,
With a Bold, Mighty, HAIL!"

"Cover me with DEATH...
If I should Ever fail!"

"Glory! Majesty! Unity!
HAIL, Hail, hail!"

Solemnly Ashe stands turning to face those present.

"We gather today to lay to honored rest our battle comrade, ally and dear friend~ Inquisitor Graxer Firebeard, A Son of GORUM!"

"He was not one for long words or flowery speech so I'll Honor him with the same."

"Graxer fought hard, he fought true, he never faltered or gave into fear. He will be missed, but he will also be remembered and rejoiced in his Honorable death in battle standing undaunted by his friends and allies fighting for his beliefs."

"No better end could anyone hope for or be blessed with!"

Ashe turns to the pyre and crouching down cuts two lockes of Graxer's hair from him resting a hand upon Graxer's hands clutched at his greatsword's hilt, and softly says goodbye, "..swift journey, to battles forever anon, among the honored warriors of Valhalla ...my friend."

With those soft words Ashe tucks the two lockes of hair away and lights the funeral pyre at the feet and at the head standing back as the sea's breeze fan the flames...

As the fire spreads Ashe pulls from his Handy Haversack belt pouch an ornate Jawassan Sitar, decorated with gold filigree work depicting crocodiles eating storks and over 5'ft long!

He begins to play and sing a song of glory to GORUM's Faithful... the song a slow dirge but builds in intensity as he puts heart and feeling into it words of triumph!

"I Surrender My Soul GORUM Hear My Call."
"One Day I'll Sit Beside Your Throne, In Valhalla's Great Hall."
"Like So Many Before Me, I'll Die With Honor And Pride."
"The Right Of A Warrior, Forever To Fight By Your Side."

"Send A Sign, Raise The Steel, Wave A Last Goodbye,
Destiny Is Calling, Immortality Be Mine!"

"Call to Fate To Cast The Runes, Weave its Magic Spell."
"We Who Die In Battle Are Born Not For Heavens Not For Hells!"

"We Are Sons Of GORUM! The Fires We Burn Inside,
Is The Legacy Of Warrior Kings Who Reign Above In The Sky!"

"I Will Lead The Charge My Sword Into The Wind!"
"Sons Of GORUM Fight To Die And Live Again!"
"Mighty Hordes Cross The land, In Cold Wind, And Rain,
"March Into The Black Of Night Iron Calls Our Warrior’s Right!"

"Today The Blood Of Battle Upon My Weapons Will Never Dry!"
"Many I'll Send Into The Ground Laughing As They DIE!"

"We Are Sons Of GORUM! The Fires We Burn Inside,
Is The Legacy Of Warrior Kings Who Reign Above In The Sky!"

"I Will Lead The Charge My Sword Into The Wind!"
"Sons Of GORUM Fight To Die And Live Again!"
"Viking Ships Cross The Sea, In Cold Wind, And Rain,
Sail Into The Black Of Night Magic Stars Our Guiding Light!"

"Place My Body On the Bier And Burn It In The Wind!"
"Let My Spirit Rise Valkyries Carry Me,
Take Me To Valhalla Where My Brothers Wait For Me!"
"Fire Burning To The Sky My Spirit Will Never DIE!"

"I Will Lead The Charge My Sword Into The Wind!"
"Sons Of GORUM Fight To Die And Live Again!"
"Fighting hordes Cross The world, Across Sea and Land,
Storm Into The Blackest Fight Iron Sings Eternal Might ...!!"

"I will Lead the Charge…
My Sword …
… Into the Wind!!!"

Perform{String}: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (1) + 10 = 11
Perform{Sing}: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (15) + 8 = 23

Clearly emotion fills his words as his instrumental's suffer, but his voice is clear and inspiring full of heartfelt meaning for his fallen friend as the flames consume him.

With the words of the song fading on the winds... he bows his head.

Turning he states simply, "..thank you for attending."

But Asherick stays until the fires have consumed all.. but ashes on the wind...

Edmund spends the day getting caught up on what happened to his son Kris, taking a brief excursion to sell their loot and making purchases, while Ashe and Akina prepare for the funeral.

He returns in time to attend the funeral.

Garridan: you may recall anything you've found on the Wiki about Harse, thanks for asking :)

Kris Gwenn tells a tale of having been caught up in a riot, people fleeing from a marketplace where an infection of blood veil was discovered and getting trampled. He crawled to the side and eventually was taken to a temple where he was treated... but they demanded all that he had in repayment and wanted more, so as soon as he could stagger he'd made his way to the Cathedral where he had been taken in. He apologises for not getting in touch, but he'd also taken a knock to the head and was having difficulty in remembering stuff... it wasn't until the Cathedral healers took him in hand that he recalled his own name!

Bishop d'Bear (looking rather odd in civilian clothing rather than vestments) comes to attend the funeral, standing quietly to one side as Ashe leads the proceedings. She leaves once the pyre is burning brightly, saying that supper will be prepared back at the Cathedral for all who wish to partake.

Inelukii spends the day preparing for her trip to the Cinderlands, packing her few belongings and advising the temple leaders of her upcoming departure.

She attends the funeral and out of respect for the dead, and for Ashe, remains until the fires burn out. Never having known Graxer in life, she holds her tears in check, though the funeral reminds her of her mother's. It would seem somehow disrespectful for her to cry for one she didn't know in life.

When all is over, she softly asks Ashe "Are you alright? Is there anything I can do to ease your pain? Perhaps share a drink after dinner and listen, if you've aught to speak of about Graxer that has not been said? If not, perhaps you can answer a question for me... a simple one though... and that is where do we meet to depart the city and when?"

She then accompanies others who are attending the dinner.

Talin waits outside most of the ceremony. He feels that he had not known the warrior. Not has he raised a weapon along side him. But he will honour him by fighting with and alongside his old comrades. Zephyr by his side. He will try to make the warrior's companions proud

-Posted with Wayfinder

Before the ceremony, Garridan will reveal what he knows about Harse.

"the village of Harse is found where the Sarwin and Falcon Rivers join and it has ferries that cross both rivers. It sees a lot of traffic as a result. The village itself is pretty small, although it does have a Church of Erastil and a couple of Inns. The Spotted Pony has a wonderful locally made Cider, the other one has a pretty indifferent Stout beer as its speciality. There are a lot of farms and ranches spread around the area. There is a large rodeo held there each year"

Garridan will attend the service but will be quiet there.

Ashe shakes his head in reply to Inëlûkii, "...no, I'm fine. I've buried battle comrades before... but this was the first where I was in effective command. You keep wondering if there was something you could have done differently or some risk you took that was unwarranted~ when the truth is simply people die in the fight versus evil.. always have and will continue to. Nothing any mortal can do will stop that, all you can do is strive for your best... the question nags... is that your best? And no one can answer that!"

"I ...just wish, Varrel had been here. Varrel was Graxer's closest and oldest friend~ an elven Magus worshipper of RAGATHIEL. I myself only knew Graxer for a short period of time, a few months...Varrel knew him for decades."

"But alas, it was not to be... nothing to be done for it now... but carry on the fight."

Ashe turns and head back toward the Cathedral he casts a prestidigitation cantrip as he goes and his grime cover battle dirtied gear is cleaned and polished to a pristine condition... then tapping his helmet - hat of disguise, his image shifts to an elderly middle aged man wearing robes and bearing a travel pack and walking staff, "..yes. I would not mind sharing a drink or two... after we reach Harse. I am weary and it would not do well to add spirits to that mix for now. As for how and when we shall leave...after dinner I would think when the sun if fully set and out the southern most gate of the city along the Field Marshall's Way. Harse is to the north so heading out the opposite direction is to add another level of deception in out exodus. About two miles away we shall then turn east to skirt back around the countryside to make our way north across the river ford and make for Harse."

Walking through the South Shore District Ashe makes his way back to the Grey District and the Cathedral of Pharasma.

At dinner Ashe is quiet save for informing the JUSTICARS, "We will set out after dinner.. Akina would you please make your preparations for the exit with our wagon of coffins? I'll not need a coffin as I have magical means to conceal my identity. We will travel at night to make for Harse under cover of darkness."

After the funeral, Edmund approaches Ashe alone. "While the authorities may not currently know of my involvement with your group, the divinations needed to discern it are relatively easy. In addition, even though Kris was never in the Vivified Labyrinth, somebody had made that connection to tell me the rumour that he was there. I fear it may not be safe for me to return to my bookshop until Korvosa has been made relatively safe once more. I have a niece who runs an ironmongery in Kaer Maga - if you will allow it, we would like to leave Korvosa with you and travel that far."

Ashe smiles, "Of course Sage Gwenn, you are welcome to travel as far with us as you like, and leave when/if it suits you. Your help within the Arkona palace and dungeons was invaluable!"

-----

Finally, Ashe will ask Bishop d'Bear to send Graxer's possessions and one of the lockes of his hair via Janderhoff to his Family and clan in the Five Kings Mountains. The other locke of hair Ashe will keep...

Ashe will make one last visit to view the body of his 'Grand Uncle' Marcus Thassilonius Endrin~ persevered via the Ungent of Timelessness... as if freshly slain... awaiting the proper time to Raise Dead upon him and restore him to life.

"Rest easy, for now, Grand Uncle... I shall return with the means to stop the Queen.. and then Korvosa will have need of men of your caliber!"

With that Ashe pulls his figurine of his War Steed - 'Red Hoof', cancelling the carry companion spell enchantment restoring the steed to full size and flesh. He makes his way to the gates of the Cathedral...and tapping his helm.. he changes form to a disguise he has used before...

Suddenly, Ashe is replaced with his disguise persona of Vlado Drafir - Hellknight of the Order of the Nail... a warrior clad in a suit of blackened Chain Mail and a black tabard with a crudely painted red pentagram upon its breast. Helmed but his face and hands are wrapped with blood-stained cloth bandages to hide his horribly-burned skin beneath and his voice a rasping wheezing affectation to complete the disguise. But far more effective this time with the magic of his Hat of Disguise...!

Disguise: 1d20 + 4 + 10 ⇒ (19) + 4 + 10 = 33

Mounting up he waits near the wagon loaded with coffins for the rest of his companions to arrive...

Inelukii arrives at the appointed time, ready for travel... She isn't riding anything fancy like Ashe's warhorse, but she is leading a spry riding horse, just purchased, along with new-looking tack and gear.

Garidan also shows up on a riding horse

After Garridan, two young men on horseback approach. One man wears armour bearing Pharasman symbols, riding a war horse. His leg is bound in a cast.

Riding beside him is another young man wearing out-of-fashion tradesmen's clothing. The two approach, and the uninjured man speaks up. "Greetings, Sir. My Lord knight has come to escort this procession to see these souls laid to rest."

The Bishop has has prepared a battered old wagon and provided several coffins. The wagon is drawn by a couple of fairly non-descript cart horses, one white and one a roan, which stand nuzzling each other ready to set out.

Akina will stop before the bishop once more thanking him for the opportunity. The determined look in her face could be mistaken for sorrow, but the good bishop knows her to well for that. Akina is finally returning to her old self. With renewed purpose she is ready to set out.

Akina will make one final request, that each person who is going to ride in a casket submit to one of the clerics for a spell to be cast upon them. Once the spells are complete, Akina will help each person into the casket, and prepares their "corpses" for transport. Once she is satisfied that everyone is settled correctly, she seals the caskets. She then moves to the front of the wagon and gives one final reminder. "Remember, you were hired by the church to be escorts. Nothing more. Don't overstep that role or you'll draw suspicion upon us." With that, she gently cracks the whip and sets the cart in motion heading for Harse.

The spell will be a Mark of Justice that will be placed in a well hidden spot. The Mark of Justice trigger condition will be creating undead. This and gentle repose are both in the necromancy school so it should fool any detection as the living bodies will project an aura of necromancy if viewed under a detection spell.

Did Ashe sleep or are you planning on going another day without sleep? You stated you had been without for 36 hours, then you stated you were going to not rest until he was buried, then wanted to leave immediately after.

With Neolandis and Vencarlo concealed in the coffins and Akina at the reins of the wagon, Vlado Drafir, the horribly burned Hellknight, follows on his horse wheezing his labored breath.

He rides close to Akina and whispers, {Head south for about two miles.. out of the city...then we'll turn east to skirt our way back around and head north out of sight of the city for Harse.}

Ashe was probably dozing quite a bit at dinner... but no real sleep.. he intents to sleep on the road riding in his saddle. Easily done as once out of the city and heading on our 'true' course North.. he will trail to the end of the wagon and tie Red Hoof's reins to it she the war horse will follow along while he sleeps. It may not be comfortable.. but he can simply remove fatigue from himself in the morning or on arrival at Harse.

Akina furls her brow and in a tone that comes of as unintentionally, and needlessly rude asks, "Why? That completely defeats the purpose of taking the wagon. The cart works best on roads, which we can stay on using the gates and going the correct direction."

"If you're worried we'll be followed then you add a needless complication in explaining why we are altering when our purpose is transporting corpses to their final resting site. If we tell the corpses intended course then we have no issues being followed. We will just slow our travel and force them to pass us or draw suspicion upon themselves by following at our slow pace."

"Also, if you're worried about being noticed by association, you should have been in disguise as I suggested at the Cathedral. Everyone I see, by my own eyes or your own admission, has either just joined the group or has little association with the Justicars. Save yourself who is in disguise as you should be."

"You're being paranoid, and you're not thinking clearly. Now go, get some rest. Do not abuse the gifts of the divine. Your magic will clear your bodies fatigue, but your mind needs rest." The biting tone and thorny scowl stand out as quite an antithesis of the helpful girl who was at the Cathedral, and it all seems directed at Ashe. Clearly something he has done has struck a nerve with this girl, and she is clearly not one to hide behind social niceties.

Ashe is persistent whispering a somewhat curt reply...weariness putting an edge to his patience, "Why? Beacause the South gate is the nearest right now... within sight in fact. Otherwise you must parade this entire entourage through the city. Have you ever been hunted by Red Mantis Assassins? Then you do not know what true paranoia is... they have senses~ divinely empowered senses to follow their prey ANYWHERE they go... regardless of how they are disguised! My choice of subterfuge is to fool those who are not Red Mantis Assassins to provide them with false testimony when asked about strange travelers on the roads, and add a level of confusion to our trail to buy a little more time. Please do not argue we don't have the time!"

Akina replies in her own hushed tone, "The south gate is fine, it is the direction we go already. I will not march miles in the wrong direction just to satisfy your paranoia. As you said, we do not have the time. We can just as easily follow the road the circumvents the city and head north. There is no need to march miles south, just to go north!"

"My dear." the young squire says to Akina in the kindly patronizing tones of the elderly (which really do not fit his current voice or face), "you wished to join the Justicars, for whatever your motivation may be. Sir Ashe is the leader of the Justicars, so if you truly wish to join, you will follow his instructions. You have voiced your opinion and counter-arguments, which is indeed your right to do, but now we follow as instructed."

He pats her on the arm, again in a manner totally at odds with his youthful appearance.

Its hard to tell under the bandaged face what his reaction is but whether he is mollified or just plain unwilling to argue the point 'Vlado' lets it rest seemingly satisfied that the South Gate nearest is being used... and Akina is not trying to parade the wagon through the city to the northern-most gate. A bad prospect since they are supposed to be escorting Blood Veil victim's corpses... something anyone asking would be immediately suspicious as to WHY one would cart them through the entire city when the south gate is closest?!?!

Regardless, 'Vlado' sits quietly in his saddle riding along wheezing his labored breath...following the wagon out of Korvosa...

Ashe is unable to dispel his fatigue currently, because he used his last lay on hands for the day on Talin's behalf when he arrived exhausted. Ashe ALWAYS sees to others first before himself.

Akina softens at the older wizards words, "Yes," she takes in a big breath and lets some of her rage out in a long exhale. "Yes, I'm sorry, I forgot my place. My old comrades, we acted on a consensus. No leader was necessary. It will take time to shake old habits. Forgive me sir." It is not hard to miss that no apology was offered to Ashe, but she does comply with his wishes and instructions.

Garridan looks confused. Are these guards actual allies of the party, party members disguised, or did somebody actually want to add still more people to this group.

These Justicars need to learn to communicate better

As far as I can tell, nobody actually bothered to tell us that magical disguises were part of the plan

Hearing the argument between Ash and Akina, he thinks to himself

These Justicars and us newcomers need to learn to communicate better. Now is not the time for this discussion. But we need to have it. Soon.

Thinking that it would be better if the whole group do NOT head out in one single group he drops back, motioning to Inëlûkii, Iňuksuk and Talin to join him.

"I suggest that the four of us follow you at some distance. The group is already quite large to be escorting some coffins. And, if they meet with trouble, we can then intervene if it seems wise"

missed a lot. Weekends are tough. Need to make sure. Follow as part of guard, follow via air, or is talin in a casket too? What would be best?

-Posted with Wayfinder

I think Ashe and I went with magical disguises, because we were the ones of the group who might have been viewed by the seeing stones inside the Labyrinth. Plus, with the chaos, fear, and sheer exhaustion the remaining Justicars are feeling, I think this total break down in communication is awesome and totally believable.

@Talin: I'd suggest following via air.

@ Talin - I agree with Edmund follow from the air. Draws less attention than walking a hippogriff about near horses.. he'd like want to eat anyways! :)

@ Edmund - Funny thing is .. there are no Justicars anymore.. Ashe and Ebon Wings were the last and Jord joined up in the dungeon.. he was actually seeking Ashe. Now there is only Ashe.. and Edmund who walked out of the Palace.. so as far as 'JUSTICARS' this Team is the New JUSTICARS! :)

@ Akina - Actually the JUSTICARS really did not have a leader..well maybe briefly Una.. but they were NOT the Justicars at that point they were just mercenaries. The party was full of Chaotic to neautral aligned characters..Ashe being th eonly lawful and only one other Good character in a party of 7! When Ashe was the last of the original players in the Escape from Old Korvosa chapter... he started calling the team the JUSTICARS to give the party some form of unity and identity; when it was just Ashe, Verral, Graxer, and Ebon Wings and as he was the oldest party member the group started looking to him for direction as Ashe was clearly of a purpose and direction to the team's efforts. But mostly Ashe commanded by consensus. In fact he was out-voted when dealing with the Rakshasa Golario..which is why Ashe did not summarily kill him on sight.. and why he and his sister Vimanda escaped.

Once the party is out of sight of the city {even if that is not really two miles south}, 'Vlado' will gesture to start the turn to the east to begin the skirting around to the north of Korvosa. It is a little rough going off the road... but the lands around Korvosa are not badlands.

'Vlado' makes efforts to conceal the parties change of direction in their tracks...

Signalling up to Talin by flashing on and off his Wayfinder's light generation to get his attention to come down.

"We are going to turn our way to north now.. could you with your superior view of the land track us a easier route skirting the city back to the North and conceal our tracks? I'll assist!"

Survival: {Aid Other - Conceal tracks} 1d20 + 1 ⇒ (1) + 1 = 2

...{snicker} clearly 'Vlado' is not going to be much help, Ashe's weariness is showing.

Akina can't help but smirk at 'Vlado's' incompetence at covering the tracks. "Times like this I really miss you Risem." She sets her eyes forward guiding the horses around the rocks in the trail.