Megan's Curse of the Crimson Throne (Inactive)

Game Master Megan Robertson

Trinia chuckles at Edmund's son's ribbing jest, "{Tee-Hee}... I don't believe we ever heard your name lad? Could it be 'Tempsdadswrath Buht' or perhaps 'Willsoon Needneuw Buht'?"

Perform: {Comedy} {Take 10!} 10 + 14 = 24

She smiles at him playfully...

Turning to Ashe she looks shocked at his appearance change, "..My Ashe you look so like one of those 'bad-boys' my mum always warned me to stay away from!"

She leans close to him wiggling her nose at Ashe, "...and did you take up Bard training just to charm me.. or just to polish your thespian skills? Perhaps you should name this 'persona', Fane Sczarni? You certainly look 'rascal-enough'!"

Ashe smiles at Edmund's son... but his expression seems.. slightly envious.

He comments in a gently chiding tone, "...you should enjoy your elders presence while you can son.. they are not always going to be around!"

At Trinia's attention he shrugs, "..in Kaer Maga it fits in just fine.. its a town full of 'bad-boys'."

When she leans close to him his eyes go a little wide and he stumbles out, cheeks coloring slightly, "...Er Yes.. I Mean NO.. er well, Bard schooling is very comprehensive... an gave me access to some minor arcane skills~ a adventurer needs a wide range of knowledge and its proved invaluable..."

Her widening smile tipped him off, "..your teasing me aren't you?"

Trinia chuckled openly at his discomfort... in reply.

Grimacing he continued, "Sczarni!?! That's a bit ostentatious.. or should I say infamous? I think Fane... 'Winter' will do as a name for this 'persona'!"

Trinia gave Ashe a curious expression, "Fane 'Winter'... a bastards name? Whatever for?"

To those of Varisian culture.. children born out of married wed-lock and unclaimed by fathers were given the 'surname' of the season they were born in~ Fall, Winter, Spring, Summer. To any Varisan it was the same as admitting one's illegitimate birth.

Ashe shrugged, "...no one pays attention to bastards.. the fatherless. And Sczarni is WAAY too well known..that would certain draw attention. There ARE criminal Gangs in Kaer Maga.. and the Sczarni are a pretty famous wide spread clan of ner-do-wells."

Akina keeps quiet at Garridan's remark, though the hint of a smile that spreads across her face is noticeable to the keen eye. She bites her tongue even harder at Ashe's reply that he is trying not to brag. Quickly changing the subject, she simply says, "I shall not enter this particular city. I'll make my way around the walls and meet you at whatever gate you wish to exit. Our intention is to keep a low profile, and I can not do so and keep my oaths to my church."

As much as I'd like to accompany you, Ashe, I think I will stay with Akina. As a priestess of Sarenrae, I would attract too much negative attention in town, and I am not good at subterfuge. I would stand out in such a town I think." Inelukii prepares herself for the trek around the outside of the city.

"I will stay with Akina and Inëlûkii. I have no need of anything in the city and Nini and I will attract unwanted attention. We will meet you all on the plateau when you have finished your tasks."

DM sits chuckling quietly at the byplay :)

Those not entering the city: The going is quite rough and it takes you half a day to skirt around to the far site. There, you find a clump of trees from which there's quite a good view of the gate. Trampled ground and the odd bit of litter suggest you are not the first to lair-up here, although at the moment you have the place to yourselves.

Those entering the city: The disguises appear to be working, at least the gate guards don't give any of you a second glance. The youngest most impressionable guard touches his cap to the 'Banker', which makes the older men guffaw at his expense. The youth retreats, blushing horribly.

Inside the place is bustling. There is indeed an inordinate number of 'bad boy' mercenaries cluttering the place up, clustering around ale-houses or strutting around trying to impress the ladies, potential employers or each other. Ashe fits in very well... until he slips off to make his purchases.

Does anyone else want to do anything in town whilst Ashe is shopping?

Banker Lawrence returns a nod to the young guard, and graces the other men with a frosty stare, but moves on. He has purchases to make and follows Ashe's lead on the best places to make those purchases.

He also secures his son a seat on the next stage coach/merchant caravan to Magnimar. One look at this city tells him he has no intention of leaving his son to this place. Kris is surprised his father isn't coming with him.

"I was planning to, of course, being too old for these adventures, but some day I would like to go home, and that will never be safe until the queen is dealt with."

It's a tearful goodbye, and a very somber Edmund who emerges from the gate.

Just keeping an eye out on the others. Buying the occasional food and drink off the street. Got nothing in particular to buy.

"We should be fine here." Akina remarks reaching the shaded area. "I doubt Ashe will be quick so we may as well make ourselves comfortable."

Ashe nods solemnly, first to Inëlûkii and then to Iňuksuk, "..thank you. I was hoping someone would accompany Akina. I know she would say she would be perfectly safe by herself.. but I would worry none the less were she alone outside of the city. Kaer Maga is not a place to be taken lightly... there are indeed many people of questionable ethics who might descend upon a lone woman as prey... but will tread lightly around a camp of travelers this close to the city. I shall be a quick in my dealings as possible."

----

Entering the City

Mercenary sell-sword Fane 'Winter' pays only enough attention to the guards as to make sure of their number and position before dismissing them as not going to threaten him or his current employer, Banker Lawrence, he is escorting as he enters the gates. He pauses briefly to look over the many postings of wanted posters tacked to the inner gates of the city but only giving them a cursor glance as ride his steed into the city proper... ostensibly guarding the banker in his escort.

Ashe follows Edmund as he makes arrangements for Kris' departure.

"Worry not, overmuch, at your father's safety Kris, I PROMISE, I will do all in my power to see to it your father is safely returned to you and your home in Korvosa restored to you both. Good journey!"

Ashe then makes his way to the Temple of ABADAR in haste... entering he requests a private consultation with a Banker for some discrete purchases he wishes to fund. Once in a private room Ashe reveals his true identity... and quickly begins to have an appraisal of his trade goods from the handy haversack collated and credited to his purchase requests. However long it takes Ashe, Trinia, and Edmund {if he follows Ashe's advice to purchase his goods from the church as the only reliable source in the city} wait within the Temple until the purchases are secured, including Area Maps of the Cinderlands and Storval steppes.

Once the items are purchased Ashe restores his disguise... and leads the way out of the city... seeking the Campsite of the rest of the JUSTICARS.

Trinia shrugs, "I guess I should do a disguise as well?"

Reaching into the Bag of Holding... she pulls out Blackjacks mask and cloak pulling the costume about her to conceal her hair and features...

Disguise: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (16) + 8 = 24

...with a little embellishment on the fit and some added apparel of her own.. she takes on the persona of a River Kingdoms Poison Merchant from Daggermark... accompanying the ABADAR Banker to set up some lucrative business in Kaer Maga, calling herself - Mira Shade.

As Ashe and Edmund enter the gates.. she keeps close to the Banker saying nothing but gripping tightly one of the pommels of her many daggers, playing the part of the paranoid merchant.

---

Once inside the city proper Trinia stays close.. but can't help but gawk and the many strange sights Kaer Maga has to offer... never really having traveled far from Korvosa.

Garridan just shakes his head in disbelief as Trinia adopts as a disguise the appearance of one of the most notorious people in Korvosa, a figure certain to be recognized on sight by any Korvosan here in Kaer Maga.

well, I guess I really shouldn't expect a bard or paladin to have any concept of what "non-descript" and "not attracting attention" actually mean."

Trinia indeed catches a few stares and even one youngster pointing and saying "Do you think that's really him?" to the evident amusement of his peers, but the party gets Kris settled on a stage home and thence to the Bank to conduct their business.

A portly Banker by the name of Caldor Sabbath is completely unfazed as Ashe drops his disguise, it seems nothing surprises him. Especially when a Pathfinder is involved. He deals with you briskly, the words 'Time is money' seem to hang in the air even if they are not uttered. Everything is done by the book, and you both soon have everything that you require.

"A pleasure doing business, come again," and he ushers you out onto the street again. Down the street, Garridan is finding that the last meat pie is repeating on him. A few peppermint leaves should settle his stomach. Any good herbalist should have them, or he may chance his luck foraging once you've left the city.

The group is soon reunited outwith the city gates. Where now?

"So, now we have to find the Skoan Qua and Thousand Bones"

Do we know approximately where the Skoan Qua are? Is that a knowledge geography and/or knowledge to cal check?

"So, now we have to find the Skoan Qua and Thousand Bones"

Do we know approximately where the Skoan Qua are? Is that a knowledge geography and/or knowledge local check?

Seeing the others come through the gate, Akina informs the others and begins gathering their gear and horses. "Get what you needed?" she asks somewhat curtly.

Trinia is a bit shocked her garb was recognized here in Kaer Maga... despite her efforts to only use portions of Blackjack's costume to hide her identity and play the role of a poisoner of Daggermark!

Thinking, {The Legend of Blackjack must reach far indeed.. especially since he was last seen some 20 or so years ago! I'll have to remember that...!}

Shrugging she gave up trying to seem someone else other than the famous Legendary Hero.. taking efforts only to hide her gender and features from observers. After all.. the Red Mantis is seeking Asherick, Vencarlo, Neolandis and perhaps herself, Trinia.. NOT the Legendary Hero Blackjack... as no one knows who Blackjack is but ALL know him as a Man and again.. he hasn't been seen in almost 20 years.

She makes a mental note to be more careful how she uses the legacy of the hero of the people... her debut as the New 'Female' Blackjack must bring honor to his Legend.

Trinia stays as much in the shadows as possible keeping near Ashe and Edmund. once inside the Temple/Bank of ABADAR... she will switch into Blackjack's Armor and Cloak of Elvenkind to complete the outfit and take more focused efforts to hide her features and gender. The magic of Blackjack's gear makes hiding Very easy... she is not ready to reveal the new Blackjack as a woman just yet.

Ashe greets the portly banker politely... noting his name.

Retrieving the Bag of Holding from Trinia, Ashe lays out the items he is selling for appraisal... a Mask of the Mantis, a headband, a periapt, a stoppered bottle, a cloak, a chain shirt, a set of studded leather, 3x pale pink diamonds, and a finely crafted war razor.

After Caldor Sabbath has confirmed the worth of the items magical and mundane... Ashe makes his requests and surrenders his shield, cloak, skull head amulet, both rings, and the plaguebringer's physician's mask.

Again Caldor Sabbath appraises the collection of items and nods taking them all. Ashe does NOT haggle.

Shortly, Ashe is brought a new shield, new cloak, new heart-shaped gem amulet with a crack in it, a new single ring, a clear spindle stone, a small bronze figurine of a griffin and finally a scroll tube containing maps of the Cinderlands and Storval Steppes.

Ashe smiles, "Thank you Caldor Sabbath, it has indeed been a pleasure in dealing with you... I need not mention.. but duty requires me to do so, I would council~ caution in who you might sell the mantis mask to. The Red Mantis do not take... kindly to their artifacts being other's hands."

Resetting his magical disguise... Ashe leads Edmund and Trinia to the rear gates of the city and out of Kaer Maga to the Camp of the Justicars.

----

Once regrouped with the party in answer to Garridan, Ashe sighs not in frustration but resignation, "Alas, friend Garridan, this is where my knowledge is at an end. I have never traveled to the Cinderlands and know only very little about the Shoanti other than approximately 300 years ago.. Cheliaxian colonists drove out the Shoanti who lived where Korvosa sits now .. a Grave Injustice that has not been redressed to this day!"

"I have these Area Maps of the Cinderlands and the Storval Steppes to guide us partially at least. My best suggestion would be to enter the Cinderlands and try to make peaceful contact with any Shoanti that might know the location of Thousand Bone's tribe the Skylar-Qua.. and then play it by ear at that point."

"Unfortunately, I doubt even with only my half Cheliaxian/Varisian heritage... that I'll be met with anything other than hostility. I must stress, though I understand we must defend ourselves if pressed... there should be no killing of the Shoanti! Vanquish any hostiles that we must, of course, to survive; but we must take special care to not slay any of them! Their people have suffered enough from the hands of supposed civilized kingdoms."

Ashe turns toward Akina a quizzical expression on his face, "..yes, we did manage to sell our goods in exchange for some needed gear."

He announces to the party, "We should get started.. we have a long and uncertain path ahead of us, we leave as soon as camp is broken."

Turning back to Akina, he asks gently, "Akina, may I have a word with you, in private, please?"

Hopefully I can at least narrow things down a little. Depending on what skill we're talking about and some other details I have a Knowledge Geography or local of somewhere between +10 and +18. That should probably be enough to know the direction to head.

Akina draws herself up onto her horse falling into place in the marching order. "If you need to speak, do so." Akina states flatly in reply to Ashe's request, though she makes no move to do so in private. Her desire and focus to continue overriding any want for privacy.

Ashe ponders her in silence for a few moments, his expression one of concern mixed with some small bit of disappointment, before he continues.

"...ok. I hope you don't mind my making an observation... but you have seemed agitated of late. Angry and ..somewhat confrontational in any interaction with me. I only so notice as most of the others you do not really interact with much at all. I do not know if I am the cause or if I or someone else has done something to anger you so... perhaps I'm misreading you? Regardless, because I do not want any hard feelings between any of us... WE who may soon have to rely on each other for the mutual protection of our lives and the success of the mission; Right or Wrong.. I want to apologize and ask for your forbearance... and forgiveness if you can find it in your heart to do so? If I have given offense or insulted or angered you.. I am truly sorry... it was not my intention to do such. I only ask to know how I might make amends?"

Everyone mounts up and heads off. Garridan, you don't really have much detailed knowledge of where individual Shoanti tribes hang out although you can point in the general direction as well as the next person.

Akina keeps her head on a swivel as they ride. She is silent and contemplative before speaking. "I am not angry. I am annoyed for certain, but you will know my anger when you see it."

[b]I will protect your life and the lives of any would stand against the abomination we face."

She pauses once more and thinks. "What has brought my annoyance is you. Your flagrant self-centeredness. You can make your arguments for how you have listened to others suggestions, but you don't. You follow your path, even when we all could see your weariness was affecting you. You only follow the path you choose even if it takes us all with you."

Master Gwenn is correct, I choose to join you. You are the leader of this group. We all choose to join you and accept the risks that brings. Having said that, you as a leader have the burden you must carry of putting the needs, concerns, and mission of the group above your own." She lets her words hang for a moment, before continuing.

For the first time, Akina will let her eyes fall to Ashe meeting his gaze with a fierce determination. "What you have done to insult me, is to waste the gifts of your goddess on your own paranoia. That the gods would grant you their divinely powered magic and have you squander it on keeping yourself awake. Such gifts were given to keep a paladin able to fight to defend innocents in the wake of devilish hordes. Instead, you use it to push yourself to the breaking point of your mind so much so that the rest of us were forced to trick you into rest. Worst yet, you would still be doing so if not for finding her." Akina remarks with a gesture towards Trinia. "She is what finally put you in the bed, you so desperately required. To see you misuse the gift of your goddess is what has insulted me."

"What has annoyed me is, weather spoken or not, in letting you lead, we've agreed to trust you. How are we to do that, when you do not trust us?"

I hope that none of this comes across as directed at the player. I think a lot of this was just your desire to get things moving a bit faster. I'm new to PBP games and maybe the medium doesn't allow the normal back and forth as players swap ideas and plans.

Garridan listens to what Akina is telling Ashe. It is obvious that he is having an internal struggle between letting things lie and speaking his mind.

"Ashe, I am NOT trying to usurp your position in any way. The Dreamer knows that I most certainly would not want to be the leader of this group. You and your friends have done magnificently well in getting this far. You bring a wealth of knowledge, contacts and direct experience to this task that we cannot match. You have to, at the least, be our guide as to what we do.

If we do need a leader, that leader needs to realize that we all have important skills, knowledges and opinions to bring to bear on any problem. That leader needs to consult with us and most certainly needs to keep us fully informed. A Paladin is most certainly NOT a master of intrigue, nor should he be. And a Bard often knows nothing about being discrete since all their training teaches them that they should be noticed, should be the centre of attention. You need to recognize your limitations and ask for advice. I am far from an expert but even I know that wearing Blackjacks mask and cloak was a mistake"

Inelukii sighs softly, not caring for the disagreement within the group, but she does nod slowly, in agreement at least partially with Akina and Garridan. "They do speak wisely, good sir Ashe. You would do well to heed their words and take them to heart... I have to say I am somewhat in agreement with them... If we are truly to be of value to you and become a cohesive group intent on completing mutual goals, we should all know the full plans and have a voice in said plans."

Talin trots up, his eyes moving about
"So far everything looks clear, I don't think it wise for us to be in the air right now..." he stops for a moment as he looks about the group, reading some of the expressions

"Apologies. Did we interrupts something?"

Zephyr replies my making a very odd sound, much like the sigh of a woman who knows her man just bumbled into something, yet again

Ashe listens to Akina his expression open but hurt...

"...I see. So your angry that I, as a paladin, seem too willing to sacrifice my own comfort and well-being for others? I only follow the path I choose~ TO sacrifice myself on the behalf of others... it is what we paladins do, 'the calling' if you would name it. We, paladins in general are not empowered by any one particular deity~ god or goddess but are so empowered by the compact of ALL good or lawful deities, each of us of course has our own faith in the specific deity we personally reverie... but other than our own heart's source of personal faith we are no more empowered by that single deity than any other god or goddess of goodness or law. I have even heard of paladins that reverie no specific deity other than the cause of goodness and law. So.. I cannot 'waste' IOMEDAE's power by deciding to use those divine gifts to endure past the limits of mortal flesh; it is to do just THAT for which paladins are empowered by the gods of goodness and law! To endure, to be injured, to be threatened with disease, to be assailed by mortal fears, to be subjected to a myriad of hardships that save by the grace of divine favor any other mortal would falter~ AND yet we endure and and do not buckle in the defense of the cause.. 'the calling' to defend the innocent, to oppose the wicked, to inspire the faithful that there is Hope, Justice and divine Mercy in their midst!"

He sighs, "...but it seems my attempts to explain my actions and the reasons I have done what I have done have not been sufficient or accepted.. so I will not belabor on as clearly you have decided not to accept those reasons. What you call 'self-centeredness', I see as 'self-sacrifice', what you call 'paranoia', I think of as 'prudence'... you call what I do leading... and yet I have Never called myself 'leader' of the JUSTICARS... or demanding things be done my way. I have time and again said that what the party majority wishes I will abide by or relent to."

It is then that Ashe turns his attention to Garridan and Inëlûkii as they speak their hearts...

Then he pauses, "...so I guess it seems that time is at an end. It seems the majority of the party is decidedly unsatisfied with my way of doing things. Very well I will stand aside.. choose from among yourselves who you wish to lead you or not... I'll follow their directives or the majority as much as I can without further debate."

Trinia who has been listening gives Ashe and Garridan a very frustrated look...

[OOC: You are quite correct Garridan this medium does not really allow for the back and forth of communication that would very likely occur at a sit-down table! :) But that said I know the clumsiness of PbP.. and its part of the reason my posts are so long is I try to be as descriptive and play the role of first person player and as third person narrator in my posts to explain the actions of my characters.. so everything I post is important a part of me 'trying' to communicate my actions and their reasons to the other players. 'Shrug' I get the feeling most of the time people do not read my entire post ad take in the side info I write in the context of their replies.. but to each their own. But what I AM certain of is I take NO OFFENSE at other posts as if directed at me the player 'snicker'. Again PbP is a very clumsy medium with which to play. For the record the current situation ..I'm just rolling with as a role-playing opportunity. Previous players of this game took exception to Ashe's actions and I definitely do not want a repeat of that.. so hence this VERY META OOC comment. I do not mind letting someone else take the lead of the game.. not that I was ever called leader by anyone in the game until recently. I only remind whoever takes the role.. Ashe will continue to do what he believes is the righteous and just path regardless who is called leader~ a paladin is held to a higher standard and thus what others may find acceptable.. he may not be able to accept Regardless of majority of opinion or even if he must act unilaterally. Yes that has put him at odds before .. but that is what paladins do.. make the hard choice and stick to it.]

Trinia speaks up clearly a little miffed at Ashe, "Now wait just one moment~ Sir Whiteplume, you, I'll deal with... in a moment!"

Turning to Garridan, "For the record, Mister~ Ashe did not tell me to put on Blackjack's outfit.. I CHOSE to use Blackjack's mask and cloak as part of a disguise! I was not initially wearing Blackjack's entire costume just a portion of it.. as part of the disguise I fashioned! I did not expect anyone to immediately associate some masked & cloaked person in a city of oddities as being the notorious Blackjack.. I was not even wearing the entire get up! Blackjack has not been seen or heard from in almost 20 years... and THIS is not Korvosa! Frankly I was a shocked as anyone else to immediately be thought of as Blackjack.. so I figured once we were inside the temple 'why not just go all out and put on the entire regalia.. its a perfect disguise?'"

"And why do I feel it was a perfect disguise.. because the Red Mantis are not looking for Blackjack! No one has seen him in 20 years.. its a safe bet many thing he's likely dead by now! Blackjack is Known to be a man.. even better no one would associate the notorious outlaw as me the woman Trinia! I made sure to hide my womanly curves just the same~ hiding in plain sight is also a valid way to hide.. its not what YOU would choose but THAT's the point.. Its NOT YOUR choice to make! It was MINE and I made the choice! I am my own person.. not an 'attachment' to Asherick!"

Then turning on Ashe, "AND YOU mister hero.. had also better remember that as well! I can't believe you are going to give up on this without a fight! If it were not for you.. none of them would even be here doing this quest! You may not call yourself leader.. but you have led one way or another in this entire crisis in Korvosa.. you discovered the Temple of Urgathoa, you discovered the Queen's involvement with the Red Mantis~ you discovered even the 'Cure to the Blood Veil Plague'...! It was you who stormed the Arkona Palace and not only survived when everyone else in your party abandoned the quest or died YOU rescued Neolandis AND Vencarlo! How can you just placidly accept being pushed aside when YOUR decisions and choices have led Everyone on this quest for the salvation of the innocent of Korvosa?"

Ashe answers, "Trinia it was all a team effort... I would not have succeeded by myself I'm sure~ which is their point they want more teamwork. It is not about me. I have nothing to prove nor any desire to 'lord it over them'.. as Una would say. Let them decide what is best for them."

Trinia frowns slightly, "Well I'm also part of that 'Team' and think they are being shortsighted and a bit ungrateful! You have not mislead them or made any decision without consulting.. but you have 'made the call'.. which someone has to, informed as it is by their opinions and suggestions, someone has to~ in the end 'make the call'! And I for one think you have done better than any of the others of your JUSTICARS.. that are.. oh that's right, they are Gone now aren't they? They can nit-pick on details all they want but you have brought us all here and none are hurt or lost and we have a definite direction!"

"THAT should speak in volumes!"

Garridan is visibly getting angrier and angrier at this

"You two aren't listening. If we decide that we do indeed need a leader then Ashe is an obvious candidate. IF he'd listen. Which he still seems unable to do.

This is about sharing information and knowledge, it is about making decisions collectively and not individually, it is about acting like a group of equals."

He then looks at Trinia, opens his mouth, obviously thinks better of saying the things that he is about to say, and walks off shaking his head.

Trinia gets a clear angry look on her face and retorts at Garridan, "..where the heck did you EVER hear Ashe say he was better than anyone because he was a paladin?!?! Did ANY of you even bother to ask Ashe why he choose not to rest or Why he decided to do anything he has done? Were you even listening to what he said..cause you seem to have heard something I did not?"

"Ashe said, and I quote, '...it seems my attempts to explain my actions and the reasons I have done what I have done have not been sufficient or accepted.. so I will not belabor on as clearly you have decided not to accept those reasons.' But did you ask, 'Well what did you mean by your explanations?' or even, 'When did you explain something?'... no you go off on some tangent that he never even implied in anything he said! I believe Ashe was answering Akina's accusation that he was squandering his divine gifts, not even speaking to you. He relented and did say, 'It seems the majority of the party is decidedly unsatisfied with my way of doing things. Very well I will stand aside.. choose from among yourselves who you wish to lead you or not... I'll follow their directives or the majority as much as I can without further debate.' You want to be treated an equal.. then how about be nice and polite enough to raise a point of discussion about what exactly Ashe has done that you did not agree with and ask him why he chose to do it that way or what he was thinking when he did it, instead of throwing a fit? He did ask for input... but if your determined that, 'Ashe is an obvious candidate', that's all fine empty words... but if you want a leader to LEAD~ part of that is accepting that he may take your advice and yet do as He thinks is best! You must trust HIS Judgement on the matter!"

Ashe places a hand gently on Trinia's shoulder, "Trinia please stop. Harsh words are not the answer, Garidan feels I'm am not forthcoming enough with info that I know.. I honestly do not know how much more forthcoming I can be.. so perhaps for peace's sake and our mutual goals of saving Korvosa it is just best someone else take on the role of leadership ...someone Everyone feels communicates better than apparently I am doing? I have no bruised ego in this... if the party feels more comfortable with some one else to look for direction."

DM hides behind screen and lets party get on with it...

Akina lets out a frustrated growl, "Then when multiple members stated that YOU needed to sleep. That you were starting to act irrational due to your lack of sleep. That is the moment I realized we weren't trusted. That is not you not being forthcoming enough. You driving yourself mad is not self sacrifice for Korvosa. That was you trying to carry the world alone. This is too big for you. If you can't allow us to carry this burden with you. You will be destroyed by it."

"Not one of us knows what has happened, and will happen as well as you. I doubt any of us could question that. You must lead. That is your burden to carry. Your unwillingness to ever even admit you have made a mistake is what is driving us mad."

What, does apologizing cause a paladin to fall? You're a glory hound. Dress it how you like, but your actions have proven that." Akina's hands tighten on the reigns of her horse, knuckles white as she clenches her jaw and pushes her horse a few steps ahead.

Inelukii sighs, more distressed at the conflict among them than by the actual reasons for it. Of course, he's a glory hound, he has a penis doesn't he? The two seem always to go hand in hand, she thinks.. though she keeps this bit of counsel to herself.

Trinia nods in firm agreement, and turns to Ashe, "...THAT IS something I can agree with Akina on~ Mister Hero... you do try to take on too much at once! Ashe, you don't and Cannot carry the weight of the world on your shoulders... it's too big for any mortal on their own!"

She steps close to Ashe a look of 'fond' annoyance on her features as she reaches up to lift his battered-looking helmet from his brow... instantly ending his disguise. The battered helm changing appearance in her hands to the shining winged, griffin crested helm so familiar to those who know Ashe; letting his shock white hair is let fly loose in reaction. the disguise now gone~ revealing Ashe is wearing a brilliant red cloak with the golden emblem of IOMEDAE's winged sword pointing skyward center back. On his arm he bears a gold-edged, blue steel, impossibly light~ heavy shield with the emblem engraved into its surface of a great mountain with seven rings or halos about it the highest one enshrouded in clouds.. the second halo from the mountain's base being inlaid with gold.. and a small golden inlaid emblem of IOMEDAE's shining sword in the 'dexter' shoulder corner of the shield's surface. Glowing brightly or perhaps catching the sun's rays magically is a simple golden band-ring upon his right hand engraved with the symbol of IOMEDAE as well.

Kno {Religion}: - Lore Master {1/day} Take 20! 20 + 4 = 24

Speaking again as she caresses his cheek with her hand, "Ashe, you gird yourself with all these implements of your goddess' grace.. and you forget that there is only a man bearing them! Remember the Oath of IOMEDAE's Paladins...
'I will guard the honor of my fellows, both in thought and deed, and I will have faith in them.'? You must allow others to add their skills and abilities to the cause and Trust them to not falter as well.. JUST as they trust YOU will never abandon or fail them!"

"I am not a follower of 'The Inheritor', but of 'The Eternal Rose'.. and her paladins swear an oath as well...
'I will never destroy a work of art, nor allow one to come to harm, unless greater art arises from its loss. I will only sacrifice art if doing so allows me to save a life, for untold beauty can arise from an awakened soul.' Ashe there are few mortals with the purity of heart to become paladins... YOU are a work of art but all that selfless dedication is at a loss if you destroy ..YOURSELF! Honestly now, do you believe in your exhausted state... with, as you told them, most of your divine powers exhausted for the day.. that Even IF the Red Mantis had followed and attacked you would have been more useful or less if you had rested before? Admit it.. you were being heroically~ Stubborn, a fine sentiment, in its place, but unnecessary.. and YOU know it!"

Asherick gets a sour expression on his face, "...it is not my intention to 'glory-hound' I only try to do the VERY best that I can do... I wanted everyone safe... its not that I did not trust any of you. I just wanted to do as much as I could possibly do!"

He lowers his gaze clearly pondering both Akina's and Trinia's words, "You say.. my choice was a mistake... from your perspective I can somewhat see that, but I'm more than just my divine abilities... even without them.. I'm a trained swordsman and fighter. Is it 'glory-hounding' to want to keep those dear to you safe?"

He sighs, "Clearly my choice distressed you all... and that was not my intention. As the one you seem to want to put faith in to lead the party.. in that light, making a choice to do something that so distresses those expecting and relying on more, shall we call it~ moderate decisions... was a regrettable mistake, for that I am deeply sorry. I did not realize you ALL felt so strongly about it."

"Risk and Measured-Risk are what Pathfinders and Paladins are trained to judge... to my point of view.. .what I did was a measured-risk. I see now you all don't share that opinion.. and for YOUR sakes.. I will... moderate my 'risk-taking' in the future!"

"Is that sufficient to your desires?"

"Its a start." Akina says returning her attention to the road and path around them.

Perception Take 10! 10 + 17 = 27 (32 vs. traps) looking for anything out of the ordinary on this path.

"It's a start. But you need to consult with us and you need to make sure that we ALL have all the important information. You need to treat us as equals. And you need to stop acting as if the fact that you're a paladin makes you better than us."

Desna knows that he will always believe he is inherently superior. But if he'd just not act that way, just not mention that he is a paladin every time he opens his mouth he would be SO much more pleasant to be around.

Talin finally speaks up. Stepping out from behind Zephyr

"Seems things have calmed down a bit. Verbal fights between friends and companions is not my favourite part. Besides. Zypher here is usually my only companion. So my social skills lack quite a bit!" one hand behind his head, he laughs a bit embarrassed

-Posted with Wayfinder

Edmund spends the verbal battle looking rather despondent and glum, though it could just be a gloomy mood from having just sent his son away.

He stays close behind the embattled paladin, and moves when he does.

Ashe is inwardly perplexed by Garridan's sentiments, {Where is he getting this idea... that I think I'm trying to say paladins are better than others? I take on the challenges I do, make the sacrifices I do because I've chosen to do so of my own desire to uphold the good and stand for justice... not because someone calls me paladin. I'd do the same things even if I had NO divinely granted powers~ wearing a sackcloth and wielding a club if need be! Perhaps there is some other deep-seated inferiority he feels from some reason that I am not aware of? Regardless best not to chastise him further on the issue for peace sake.. clearly further 'discussion' will not be productive... at present.}

Ashe regards Talin with a wane smile, "...far from it Marine Moonscar, 'A wise man remains silent, when he has nothing to gain by speaking'... tact, and composure ARE Both social skills as well!"

Raising his voice he addresses the party, "But let us ALL consult to array our efforts efficiently and productively. I would propose to have Garridan range out ahead of the party 200 yards no more than that.. to look for tracks of tribesman or hostile creatures to be avoided. The Cinderlands are not 'tamed' by any measure.. I'd like to avoid any unwanted encounters as much as possible. As for you Talin ..I would like a aerial patrol a mile in radius.. once every two hours of our travel... that way we can have a long-range view of the terrain and avoid hazzards in our overall travel. A task for both of you is to keep an eye out for potential game and water sources.. I'd rather us 'live off the land', as much as possible than use our limited trail rations. We don't really know how long our search will take... best to be 'cautious'."

"There are two schools of thought in traveling in a arid semi-desert like the Cinderlands. Its sweltering in the day and freezing at night. If we travel in the day.. in the heat we'll use more water and be courting exhaustion... both ourselves and our mounts... but we will have a clear sight on any encounters friendly or otherwise~ though so will hostile beings to us as well. If we rest during the day we will save water for sure and not exhaust ourselves, but traveling at night we will have limited vision and any light source will be seen for miles.. movement will mostly stave off the cold but only to a limited degree."

"Honestly.. I don't have an opinion over which travel or rest cycle is best either way... so I leave it to you to decide, both choices have their pros and cons."

"During camping, I'd like for Garridan with Talin to find us a somewhat sheltered campsite ... if possible.. base of a dune in the lee of the wind or a copse of trees or bushes that might provide us with some cover or obscurement of our campsite. The watch should be two people in four shifts so everyone... especially our spellcasters get a full night's sleep. I'll take last watch with Inëlûkii, as her natural darkvision should prove invaluable just before the dawn breaks and give us both a full nights sleep to recover our spells for the day. If at all possible.. I'd rather Edmund Gwen not have to take a watch at all, out of respect for his elderly years and his being our only full arcane spellcaster."

"These are the things I propose... does anyone have any objections, additions, or a different plan and routine to consider?"

Well, I'll be. He does listen and learn. Maybe I was wrong about him

Garridan looks visibly pleased by what he perceives to be Ashes new attitude.

"That sounds basically good to me.

I have a spell, Keep watch, that can allow 3 of us to remain awake the entire night with no adverse effects. If I cast it on a different 3 people each night that should allow us 3 people on watch at all times and we can still get a good rest. I'd prefer to only cast one such spell a night, keeping my other spell for a possibly hostile encounter."

Probably a good time to make some checks. Would take 10 if allowed. If not

Survival: 1d20 + 16 ⇒ (20) + 16 = 36
Stealth: 1d20 + 19 ⇒ (17) + 19 = 36
Perception: 1d20 + 22 ⇒ (15) + 22 = 37

+4 on those against humans, +2 against magical beast
If our terrain counts as plains +4 on all of the above

"I'd be honored to sit watch with you, Ashe. And last watch is fine with me, as is the idea of letting our esteemed wizard pass the night without taking a watch."

"I wish I'd thought to bring a wand of endure elements, and I'd be happy to take enough for the party in the morning, but I cannot do the beasts as well... I could take the communal version of the spell but it won't last as long. Is anyone else capable of casting it?"

Trinia speaks up, "I can cast Message. It can cover 7 people, lasts for 70 minutes and has a range of 170'ft."

She shrugs, "I can basically keep that running all the time recasting as needed..."

Ashe comments, "...I can prepare an Endure Elements blessing."

Then he focuses his attention on the four orbiting Ioun Stones flying around him.. and plucks a 'Cracked' Dark Blue – Rhomboid stone from the orbiting bodies.

"And with this... particular Ioun Stone inserted into my Wayfinder... I can sleep and yet remain fully aware of my surroundings... waking as needed, of course, subject to my limited perceptions~ I still can't see in the dark."

"In Kaer Maga, I purchased a ring which will allow me to recover full rest and spells with only two hours' sleep; however, it takes a full week of wearing before it becomes attuned to me and provide those benefits. After that time, I insist on taking a shift of watch."

After a moment, he adds more softly in mock irritation, "I'm not in my grave yet."