I agree. Una, we should make haste to the girl, she may well have spent more coins elsewhere. We need to find out where.
Varrel stands ready to leave, but looks hard at the store woman, [b]You would do well to head to a temple of healing to purchase a ward against disease, just in case, avoid contact with any others. The choice is yours but given the ship and what you saw on the girls face, I would not dally.
He looks back to Una and makes a copy of his drawing, [b]I do not think it too early to inform Marshall Kroft. Say the word and If you think we have enough, I can dispatch Chatterbeak or Ashe can send his pet to carry a note.
The coin DOES radiate magic. If this Quesh is collecting taxes he may be distributing the coins. He must be found. But we must continue to find the girl. I no longer have the medal the Marshall gave me but perhaps the guards in the district have heard of our grey knight?
Majenko, snorts derisively at Varrel.
His telepathic thoughts full of offended pride,
He wags his stingered tail in wounded dignity hissing impolitely at Varrel though the effect is just not menacing as much as cute and amusing to watch as the little dragon preens proudly.
Ashe is distracted attention on the coins and his demeanor changes suddenly to one of deep concern his grip on the coins shifts to one of caution - his scowl deepening.
"These coins ALSO radiate evil. This is no simple infection... Magic and Evil this was done on purpose! We must hurry... there is no doubt that someone seeks to spread a disease in Korvosa. These coins may not be the only thing being used to do so."
If this was a deliberate action the Marshall should be informed.
Varrel dips a bow to the Pseudo dragon. Majenko, I apologize, would you accept 5 gold coins for your hoard for delivery of this note to the Field Marshall? It informs her that we know the coins likely carry disease and at least 1 coffer full of them was found. It lists Una's points and informs we are finding the girl to get the coffer to ascertain just what it carries. Anyone think missed anything?
Majenko fidgets around upon Ashe's shoulder trying to look uninterested in the gold sails but never does at least one of his eyes not remain fixed on the shiny treasure...
He hisses, finally finding justification in his mind
He flutters over taking the gold and letter pocketing the gold into the tiny pouches on his adventurer's sash.
Then he takes flight off toward the citadel.
Ashe comments a little chidingly as he leaves, "Pride and Greed are sins of the Runelords to be guarded against..."
Majenko gives the equivalent of a mental shrug and sticks his tongue out at Ashe before leaving.
Una frowns.
"I am sure we missed something. But I'm not sure what. Let her know that I think that if we can't find these coins quickly enough, she may have to quarantine the district, perhaps the entire city, but I am hoping to avoid that."
Una thinks for a moment and turns towards first Ashe and then Diggle.
"And while there is no reason to think that there are other chests (we haven't heard about anything like that yet), its also not a good idea to take it into our own hands to worry everyone and create a panic. The authorities are best able to handle this situation. They are not always useful, so its good to know they're good for something."
"And yes, Ashe. This is a planned attack."
Ashe smiles at Majenko's antics and turns his attention back to his friends.
Ashe pulls out a thick cloth for binding wounds and carefully, tightly wraps the Magical/Evil Silver shield coins.
"Varrel do you have a prestidigitation cantrip available? Could you please seal these coin in hot wax?"
He waits if Varrel can or just puts them away in his belt pouch if he can't.
Ashe nods in response to Una, "I completely agree... forgive my pessimism and paranoia, Una. As a Pathfinder... it many times ends up ...'worse case' far too often! You get use to thinking that way - especially where magic AND evil are involved. Containing the spread of a panic is just as important and finding the culprits responsible and stopping any spreading infection."
"I believe the fastest way to Trail's End is this way... its on the mainland... I believe."
Shakhan's disgust of the coins, once their nature was revealed, is obvious. He keeps a clear distance from them, the likes you'd typically expect from a Shoanti, fresh from the plains. His grim countenance carries a somber aspect for the last minute or two, until it finally coalesces into: "I think we should get to the various religious institutions first. They'll need to start pouring their resources into curing disease; the sooner they start with that, the more we will be able to limit the spread."
Ashe comments, "I understand your point Shakhan... but my miracle will identify EXACTLY what the disease is we are dealing with.. how it's transmitted, it's virility and, a little of its origins, perhaps or even if it is actually a disease at all! There is not enough magic in this city to handle a major sickness outbreak... a true cure must be concocted by alchemical means if it is to be easily wide-spread and available to stop a plague progression. Diagnosing this first victim is a big step.. we don't ACTUALLY KNOW if its a disease right now... it could be a magical spell effect or a curse... we must determine the malady's TRUE nature first before any real appropriate solution can be found."
He pauses looking the party over - paying close attention to their expressions and seeming intentions.
Then he turns to Una, "Of course... it is your decision - as appointed leader and I will support your efforts. What do you wish to do first, Una? I've made my points, clear I hope."
Varrel seals Ashe's wrapped coin with his cantrip, then looks toUna for her decision.
"Majenko, our brave little companion. Let me buff you with some protective spells before you depart."
Well Diggle thinks the tiny pseudodeagon may enjoy being buffed up aswell so pulls out his Mage armor wand and shield wand and cast them upon the brave little dragon before he flutters away.
"If we are satisfied that Majenko can deliver the messages successfully, then we should move quickly to intercept the girl before she can spread more coins. Identifying the disease would be the fastest way to find a cure for it."
Diggle doesn't at all agree with Una's plan to withhold any information back from anyone.
"It is the prevention of the coins swapping hands that will slow the spread of whatever this may be. We must take the chance and let these people know."
Diggle takes another drawing of the accursed coin and tells anyone he passes to avoid accepting them lest they wish to quicken their path to Pharasma's judgement.
Since Master Diggle was seemingly unable to keep quiet, Varrel simply quickens his pace away from the market.
Let's get moving then, we can find the girl and Master Diggle can warn those he passes. The faster both tasks are achieved the better, and forget not Master Diggle, the good Marshall will likely follow a similar course to your own. Dozens of Guards handingout leaflets will cover much more ground.
Ashe climbs back into 'Redhoof's' saddle and leads the way to Trail's End at a light trot making sure to not outdistance the party as he goes. He is silent and deep in thought.
Coming to a decision he speaks as they travel, "...After we've seen to the young lass and informed the Marshal with our findings - sometime this afternoon perhaps, I want to go see this Vencarlo Orisini. The Marshal introduced him to you as a man trustworthy and reliable. I think I my have a task for him if he is willing... and amiable. I wish to go speak with him... to get a personal measure of the man. I need not drag you all along if you have other matters to attend to... ere you all turn in to your beds this evening."
"I have business with Orisini myself, as I told the others in your absence the other night, Ashe. I believe we had already reached the same conclusions."
To Diggle, "If you are going to warn people, then at least sound official when you are doing it."
Una takes on a masterful official appearance, military and crisp. She speaks in a loud voice, projecting to the nearby market stalls.
"Merchants of Services and Wares. I charge you in the name of King Eodred Arabastil II, to be wary of the coins you accept this day. We have discovered cursed stolen coins. Accepting them may be dangerous if not deadly." She proceeds to describe the coins. "If you see anyone bearing these coins, do not accept them but report them to the local authorities. Kindly inform other merchants and your customers."
Ashe nods and listens to Una's announcement to the marketplace impressed by her professionalism.
He leans over for her ears only, "Nicely done, Miss Therlmagne - good leadership on that! Gnomes can sometimes let their individuality get the better of them... not in maliciousness just over-exuberance."
Diggle just smiles at Una's attempt. He still likes his own approach and continues to do it the same. It's far more personal and doesn't mention the law at all. Granted, different residents will accept one of the two methods more readily than the other.
Varrel absently pats Chatterbeak as they make their way to the Bridge to get to Trails end.
Mmm. Perhaps it would be prudent for us to buy some mounts or a Wagon so all this running around takes less time. As it is I have 1 scroll of MOUNT left which will provide a horse for 2 hours. If Ash and Diggle and Una don't mind riding one horse, Shakhan and I could ride the other. Or we could purchase some cheap mules here in the market.
Ashe gently reins-in 'Redhoof', to a stop as the party ponders Varrel's idea of getting mounts. Though he doubts Diggle will be willing to be mounted again. Ashe had already offered the gnome such and was not even given chance to explain he was aware of the Diggle's tender posterior and was going to compensate out of compassion.
Ashe waits patiently... even more sure Una will not agree to ride anything with him, as she only grudgingly accepts his very presence.
He watches his mind burning to get moving but his training calming him to silent patience,
Varrel realises that this was KORVOSA. He remembered the city has a force on very special mounts.
Hey, what do you think the chances are we could buy ourselves some HIPPOGRIFF mounts? Our relationship with the Field Marshall might get us some favor with whomever breeds them. It would be possible?
Ashe smiles, "I'd not count on it. The Korvosan Guard are not the Sable Company and neither Field Marshal Kroft or for that mater Queen Ileosa command them! The Sable Company are the Elite Hippogriff Riders of Korvosa answering only to the Seneschal of Korvosa and they do not 'sell' hatchlings from their aerie. I can ask my uncle... but I doubt he would find the request appropriately funny or relent on that - not even for me! He'd probably tell me, 'Hippogriffs are not for joy-riding nephew and are a vital part of Korvosan security, a horse will do you just fine'..."
Ashe chuckles as he tries to imitate his uncles speech mannerisms..
That is very unfortunate, surely Someone in the city has sufficient connections. I shall have to make enquiry at the Acadamae. Incidently, do you think the Sable Company would accept an application from me Ashe? I am finding myself more interested putting down roots here. It would be nice to serve the City in an official capacity and I would like to think my skills, may be useful to the company
Ashe ponders it and smiles sadly, "..Perhaps friend Varrel. Though most of the Sable Company are either Rangers or Paladins of various faiths as their companion animals or holy steeds serve as a bond to their Hippogriffs... but anything is possible. My... father was a Sable Companion... until his Hippogriff was slain. The hippogriff-crested Helm I wear was my father's... but I do not qualify to be a Sable Companion... my bond is with my sword's celestial spirit that Iomedae has choose to gift me with."
He looks away somewhat somber, "There will be no more Whiteplumes to ride the winds on feathered wings... anymore. But I'm am sure... the goddess has her reasons and I must be content with her wisdom in this matter."
I apologize if I touched a nerve, Ashe. Still, there are other ways. You might find and train a mount yourself perhaps. Certain Druidic spells can awaken a Human like mind in beasts. There is hope if you would strongly persue it. I intend to. I spent over a century bound by someone else's laws. I intend to live my new life on my terms.
Diggle becomes side tracked by an exciting idea. He had seen dogs specially trained for use as mounts for those of small stature. Now he had a new task before him. The disease would have to wait until he had made his idea a reality.
Diplomacy when speaking with dogs.
He will be sure to use his speech ability well in the time it lasts to inform which ever dog he so choose/chooses him. He will find out what it's favourite food is. What it truly dislikes as a precaution so that Diggle can avoid whatever it is and let his new companion know that once a day he can speak with it for a limited amount of time so he can ensure any concerns are addressed.
I apologize if I touched a nerve, Ashe. Still, there are other ways. You might find and train a mount yourself perhaps. Certain Druidic spells can awaken a Human like mind in beasts. There is hope if you would strongly persue it. I intend to. I spent over a century bound by someone else's laws. I intend to live my new life on my terms.
Ashe chuckles, "Nay friend Varrel, just the musings of a fatherless son who still misses his father. Yes, there are... other ways I have considered them. Time will tell... I have willingly dedicated myself to the goddess' service but I have faith she would not keep me from anything good for my heart and spirit. I've met YOU after all and... Trina, and so many other good and noble people in my travels who have stood by me in the fight for righteousness. I have no complaints."
I am glad for your satisfaction. Fortunate is the soul who is glad for their place in the world. Now, let us see to this disease....Master Diggle......there appears to be a dog breeder of some sort over there......your idea has merit if only to save your legs on the longer walks. No offense.
Varrel bites his tongue, the Gnome had proven sensitive. He hoped the fickle sorcerer did not set him on fire.They had a disease to stop
"A thought had only just occurred to me Varrel. A gnome was never meant to ride a horse. No wonder my posterior protested every step of my short journey astride that nag. I mean to remedy that distress by getting a suitably sized 'steed' and lavish my dejected posterior with comfort and pleasurable surrounds. I dare say if I succeed I may very well come to enjoy being mounted."
"Mounts might serve us well. Especially if we will need to move quickly in controlling this curse or disease or whatever it is. But I am hesitant to just buy the first ones that come along. We should ask the marshall when we return, and in the meantime rely on our own resources to travel. Ashe's horse and Diggle's dog will do well for them, I imagine. And I know how to take geometric shortcuts better than most. Shakhan, I assume you can run with some good speed for at least a while. Varrel, that just leaves you. Can you find a temporary travel solution that suits you?"
I have a scroll of Mount for today and my flight. I can prepare the spell and the horse will last 10 hours.
"Ok then off to Trail's End then..."
Ashe gives rein 'Redhoof' and the Mare trots off toward Northbridge the closest route across the river to Trail's End...
"hrmph, I keep up well enough on foot," Shakhan replies to Una, "That said, I'm not above sitting on horse if it comes to it - but I'll follow your geo-- uhm. Shortcuts."
Una smiles at Shakhan. "Well... if you think you can...."
With that she leaps up a lamp post to the low roof or windowsill of a nearby building.
"By geometric, I mean of course by making a direct path. Straight line between two points. But I can spy routes pretty quickly from up here too if you need a little guidance."
Ashe dismounts and removes his helm walks up to the One-Eyed man nodding respectfully, "Yes, I'm 'Sir' Asherick Whiteplume-Stolyarev, Paladin of Iomedae - sometimes called Grey Knight, son of Anica Sarah Stolyarev, daughter of Neitchez Stolyarev a Merchant Prince of Varisia."
Ashe pulls at the armored gorge'{sp?} at his neck to show the side of his throat and the edge of his varisian Tattoos peeking from under his armored neck collar. His Kapenia – Varisian Scarf with its garish triple-stripes of Pink, Red, and Violet, fringed with end tassels of orange; adorns his neck as usual - each color having a hidden meaning to any true Varisian.
"I am no outsider, but I bid 'greetings to a stranger from a stranger'. I am here with my companions seeking young Brianna also called 'Breeze'. I believe the child has run afoul of some vile magic and is rapidly becoming ill. I wish to do what I can to cure her if possible before her life is put at risk. Will you show me to her home?"