The Goodrock Inn, Ravensburg (IC to 16/8/1359)

Simon N. said: There are unaccustomed tears in Jyrdani's eyes too. She seems about to say something, but thinks better of it. Silently she reaches out and hugs Erasmus tight. OOC: Awww  IC: Erasmus's arms hang limply by his side as the strong arms of the barbarian wrap around him. He sighs a heavy, mournful sigh and rests his head on her shoulder. As he blinks back the tears and his vision clears, he sees Syrus across the room smiling warmly. There are no suggestive comments or insinuating flourishes tonight, just a simple, warm smile. Erasmus smiles back at him then lifts his arms and hugs Jyrdani back. A minute passes. All the hubbub of the inn fades for the two souls locked in that embrace. In that moment, there is nothing but the warmth of each other; their breathing, slow and synchronised. "Stay with me tonight?" Erasmus whispers. "I do not wish to sleep alone."

OOC: D'Ashe crest, I think  looks pretty good (thanks Google!)

Tim M. said: Simon N. said: There are unaccustomed tears in Jyrdani's eyes too. She seems about to say something, but thinks better of it. Silently she reaches out and hugs Erasmus tight. OOC: Awww  IC: Erasmus's arms hang limply by his side as the strong arms of the barbarian wrap around him. He sighs a heavy, mournful sigh and rests his head on her shoulder. As he blinks back the tears and his vision clears, he sees Syrus across the room smiling warmly. There are no suggestive comments or insinuating flourishes tonight, just a simple, warm smile. Erasmus smiles back at him then lifts his arms and hugs Jyrdani back. A minute passes. All the hubbub of the inn fades for the two souls locked in that embrace. In that moment, there is nothing but the warmth of each other; their breathing, slow and synchronised. "Stay with me tonight?" Erasmus whispers. "I do not wish to sleep alone." Jyrdani nods silently.

Norrin discovers a lump in his throat as he sees the interaction between Erasmus and Jyrdani. Adventuring life is hard; one never knows when they may die, alone, at the end of a goblin's spear. Having someone important in their life, even just to help waylay the fears that they may face, is more important than can be imagined. The fact that he himself now has Barbara in his life is evidence of that. Before meeting her, he never planned anything in advance, only thought about surviving the next fight. But now he can actually see a future before him. The tall Northman always had a certain amount of respect for the stoic monk, but seeing the intricate work that was done on Barbara's leather armour only serves to strengthen that respect. "I cannot thank you enough, Erasmus," he says quietly, truly touched by the gesture. "This is indeed a great gift." He bows to Erasmus in respect, as he once saw Mistress Afrafra bow. He nods at Tenho. "Thank you for your advice, my friend," he says, smiling. "That's why you're the spy master and I'm a lowly sword-slinger. Your plan is sound, and I think has a good chance of success. If we come in from two directions, the front entrance and the cellar below, that may be able to cover all avenues of escape. We will sent Ted in as a scout. Posing as a rat catcher may give him enough access to vital areas."

Erasmus and Jyrdani retire to his room. She sits quietly on the edge of the small bed for a short time while Erasmus performs his evening rituals. The bed is far too small for them both, but they pull blankets and get out their bedrolls and settle down to sleep on the floor. Emotionally drained, Erasmus finds sleep quickly, but it is not a restful night. His memories of Isawyn are happy, yet tinged with sadness. Erasmus wakes early the next morning. Opening his eyes, his vision is filled with flame and rose. Jyrdani still sleeps peacefully, a lock of her fiery hair tumbling across her face. Erasmus props his head on his hand and studies her in her slumber. Brushing the hair aside, he notices the scar which cuts her eyebrow, the slight reddish hue of her cheek, the lips parted slightly as she breathes slowly. An urge to kiss her sweeps over him but he suppresses it, choosing instead to let her sleep. Maybe later. he thinks to himself, as a smile crosses his own lips. He continues watching her sleep for a few minutes before her eyes slowly open as she comes to consciousness. She blinks, looks into his green eyes, and smiles. “You’re beautiful.” Erasmus whispers. 

Eyes open wide, Jyrdani leans up to kiss him... ~Possible fade to black?~ :-)

Simon N. said: Eyes open wide, Jyrdani leans up to kiss him... ~Possible fade to black?~ :-) No hanky panky. XD

Erasmus and Jyrdani go their separate way after grabbing a bite to eat; her to train, him to research. It’s strange, the difficulties the monk had finding the familial links and bloodlines the day before have vanished, as though the ink on the pages and scrolls had been rewritten overnight. The contrast is stark between how confused the webs of names and houses looked yesterday, and how clear and logical they seem today. It takes him the day but, eventually, Erasmus uncovers the link he has been looking for thereby legitimising Malla’s place on the ducal throne of Camarthan. When he returns to the Goodrock Inn that evening, it is with a smile. A smile that is noticed by all his friends. For the first time in weeks, Erasmus is relaxed and happy.  He sits with Jyrdani and the pair talk quietly about their day. They listen to a song from Syrus, about some of the other adventures they have had together. They laugh and drink until the early hours of the morning before settling themselves to sleep. The next day, Jack has returned from his training and planning begins in earnest for the upcoming raid on Gurzun’s Festhall.

Erasmus pores over the map provided by Barbara. “Okay, here’s what I think. I like the idea of getting a pair of eyes inside. Ted, if you’re sure you’re happy to go in alone, you could provide invaluable information. “The problem then is what to do about Gurzun and Alokoth. To get to Alokoth’s chamber requires getting through the cellar, up the stairs, through an antechamber, through a mess hall, a storeroom and two dormitories. In that time, he will be armoured and a much more difficult proposition. “What if, under cover of darkness, some of our lightfooted members attempt to enter through his window from the open yard? Perhaps Tenho, Jack and myself? The rest of us can head up the stairs straight for Gurzun and we hit them both at the same time. Even if we don’t manage to gain complete surprise, plate armour takes time to don and if we can prevent them both from doing so we will have a much easier time. “I don’t know what the timetable is like there. We need to hit them when they are most likely to be sleeping. I’ve never been to a Festhall so I don’t understand their working arrangements.”

Barbara: "Well, they tend to be up for much of the night, sleep much of the day. Alokoth is often on the balcony keeping an eye on things. You'd probably catch him in his room before dawn - there are sentries on the perimeter watch towers, but I agree, if you're quiet you could come up from the cellar and climb, sneak through his window in the interior yard. It's shuttered, but not barred. Some nice transparent glass - oh well, we can always buy more." She smiles.

(OOC rewinding a bit for Syrus as I missed out on a lot of messages here in this Great RP thread!! Long post ahead...!) ...So what is the matter with that Erasmus??!! Monks of the Yellow Rose may be good with their “dancing with sticks” combat style, but is teaching the way of communicating in words not a part of their curriculum - or do they just talk to their sticks? More than twenty times had he seen ‘Ras rush past him looking flustered and blushed, mostly after talking to Jyrdani. ...And how many more times does Syrus have to rattle his ingenious brain to set up more opportunities for him to talk to Jyrdani? Apart from Syrus’ handsome self, there were other hunky adventurers and travelers appearing all the time (I see you - the new half-orc with your mingey cat) - what’s to stop Jyrdani turning her attention to someone else - the time is really of essence dear ‘Ras!! Now, how could Syrus ever refuse the spotlight when his treasured audience beckoned??!! Of course, his fans needed to hear in utmost  intricate details the epic - or shall we say LEGENDARY - Battle of the Mountain Door!! Of how the valiant Sir Norrin and Lady Babs led the party bravely into the depths of the stinky caverns; how the party faced an army of fifty giant Ogre Wives and a feral gang of Dire Wolves; when swamped by hundreds of angry Orcs, how Malied used his Flaming Sphere to burn them all to a crisp in an instant; how Qiviel made the Ogre Chief Ulfe retreat in fear through her repeating attacks; how Syrus himself with a single word of Suggestion turned the Orcs against their own leader and created a revolution within the enemy ranks; how Strohm managed to find (yet again) an harem of naked maidens and led them to safety ( ...side note: it is fascinating just how many naked ladies there are hidden away as captives in Faerun!! ); how Eldred the Brave rush to Syrus’ aid as a team of ferocious Orcs sneaked up on him from behind - and here was where the tone of the beautiful song changed to one of sombre and sadness - and the subsequent falling of Eldred to the sword of a frenzied raging Orc, and how Ser Jack defended and guarded the fallen Half-elf to the very end. (...of course, there was absolutely no mention of Syrus himself falling unconscious anywhere during the song!) As the song came to its dramatic conclusion and every single person raised to their feet while the whole building shook with thundering applause, Syrus noticed out of the corner of his eyes Erasmus and Jyrdani FINALLY having a private conversation on the stairs. He rushed off the stage ignoring the neverending requests for yet another encore and dashed towards the couple on the stairs with a newly refilled pocket of glitter confetti - only to discover Erasmus again rushing away but looking a little more relieved this time around. When asked by Jyrdani whether the Monks of the Yellow Rose swore to a Vow of Chastity, Syrus replied: “I don’t think so. I am sure he will open up his heart to you very soon. You mean a lot to ‘Ras, even if his old grumpy exterior tells you otherwise! Afterall, he can’t be talking to his fighting stick forever - and strictly between you and I - I tend to glaze over a bit when he talks to me!” ...Well at least they have started to talk properly, Syrus thought as he smiled ear-to-ear. That goof definitely needed to read less about meditation and more on the art of seduction!! Syrus spends the rest of his time further experimenting and learning from local herbalists on how to make healing potions, and crafting more scrolls ahead of their next quest as they seemed very useful. (OOC Syrus spent 1x week on his Herbalism course, 1x week to craft and 5x scrolls) On returning to the Goodrock Inn after his second day with the herbal experts, he saw Erasmus and Jyrdani lost in conversation at a corner of the inn. He could not hide his grin on seeing them in a warm embrace. Suddenly Syrus also realised that he had yet to debut his latest ballad “Song of the Reluctant Lovers” in Ravensburg yet - maybe the premiere of this forthcoming hit could be later this week!!! The next day, Erasmus seemed more uplifted and less worrisome and lost in thought. Blimey, he even laughed aloud at one of Syrus' jokes! Jyrdani too seemed happier. Did something happen last night that Syrus didn't know about - 'Ras needs to be interrogated!!  

OOC: 1.Excellent! :) 2. Qiviel is actually female under all that armour. 3. As it's been 12 days and a work week is 5 study days you can add 2 training weeks to your tally. Kenny H. said: (OOC rewinding a bit for Syrus as I missed out on a lot of messages here in this Great RP thread!! Long post ahead...!) ...So what is the matter with that Erasmus??!! Monks of the Yellow Rose may be good with their “dancing with sticks” combat style, but is teaching the way of communicating in words not a part of their curriculum - or do they just talk to their sticks? More than twenty times had he seen ‘Ras rush past him looking flustered and blushed, mostly after talking to Jyrdani. ...And how many more times does Syrus have to rattle his ingenious brain to set up more opportunities for him to talk to Jyrdani? Apart from Syrus’ handsome self, there were other hunky adventurers and travelers appearing all the time (I see you - the new half-orc with your mingey cat) - what’s to stop Jyrdani turning her attention to someone else - the time is really of essence dear ‘Ras!! Now, how could Syrus ever refuse the spotlight when his treasured audience beckoned??!! Of course, his fans needed to hear in utmost  intricate details the epic - or shall we say LEGENDARY - Battle of the Mountain Door!! Of how the valiant Sir Norrin and Lady Babs led the party bravely into the depths of the stinky caverns; how the party faced an army of fifty giant Ogre Wives and a feral gang of Dire Wolves; when swamped by hundreds of angry Orcs, how Malied used his Flaming Sphere to burn them all to a crisp in an instant; how Quivel made the Ogre Chief Ulfe retreat in fear through his repeating attacks; how Syrus himself with a single word of Suggestion turned the Orcs against their own leader and created a revolution within the enemy ranks; how Strohm managed to find (yet again) an harem of naked maidens and led them to safety ( ...side note: it is fascinating just how many naked ladies there are hidden away as captives in Faerun!! ); how Eldred the Brave rush to Syrus’ aid as a team of ferocious Orcs sneaked up on him from behind - and here was where the tone of the beautiful song changed to one of sombre and sadness - and the subsequent falling of Eldred to the sword of a frenzied raging Orc, and how Ser Jack defended and guarded the fallen Half-elf to the very end. (...of course, there was absolutely no mention of Syrus himself falling unconscious anywhere during the song!) As the song came to its dramatic conclusion and every single person raised to their feet while the whole building shook with thundering applause, Syrus noticed out of the corner of his eyes Erasmus and Jyrdani FINALLY having a private conversation on the stairs. He rushed off the stage ignoring the neverending requests for yet another encore and dashed towards the couple on the stairs with a newly refilled pocket of glitter confetti - only to discover Erasmus again rushing away but looking a little more relieved this time around. When asked by Jyrdani whether the Monks of the Yellow Rose swore to a Vow of Chastity, Syrus replied: “I don’t think so. I am sure he will open up his heart to you very soon. You mean a lot to ‘Ras, even if his old grumpy exterior tells you otherwise! Afterall, he can’t be talking to his fighting stick forever - and strictly between you and I - I tend to glaze over a bit when he talks to me!” ...Well at least they have started to talk properly, Syrus thought as he smiled ear-to-ear. That goof definitely needed to read less about meditation and more on the art of seduction!! Syrus spends the rest of his time further experimenting and learning from local herbalists on how to make healing potions. (OOC Syrus spent another week on his Herbalism course) On returning to the Goodrock Inn after his second day with the herbal experts, he saw Erasmus and Jyrdani lost in conversation at a corner of the inn. He could not hide his grin on seeing them in a warm embrace. Suddenly Syrus also realised that he had yet to debut his latest ballad “Song of the Reluctant Lovers” in Ravensburg yet - maybe the premiere of this forthcoming hit could be later this week!!! The next day, Erasmus seemed more uplifted and less worrisome and lost in thought. Blimey, he even laughed aloud at one of Syrus' jokes! Jyrdani too seemed happier. Did something happen last night that Syrus didn't know about - 'Ras needs to be interrogated!!  

OOC Thanks Simon for the corrections (have edited post) - I will post in separate thread re scroll purchases ahead the game tomorrow night :)

And many thanks to STROHM for the extra 100gp for more scrolls! :)

Simon N. said: Barbara: "Well, they tend to be up for much of the night, sleep much of the day. Alokoth is often on the balcony keeping an eye on things. You'd probably catch him in his room before dawn - there are sentries on the perimeter watch towers, but I agree, if you're quiet you could come up from the cellar and climb, sneak through his window in the interior yard. It's shuttered, but not barred. Some nice transparent glass - oh well, we can always buy more." She smiles. "I like Erasmus' plan," Norrin says. "Get them when they're sleeping. But a thought occurred to me. Do Gurzun and Alokoth ever leave? Any chance we could ambush them outside of the festhall and take them down that way? Sort of like when Jack and I rescued you from Ostrikka the slaver, Barbara. Her superiors probably think she just ran off. As far as I know, her corpse is still rotting in the bushes on the side of the road where we left her." He unconsciously touches his side, a scar still present where he was almost literally cut in half by the half-orc's axes.

Geoff said: Simon N. said: Barbara: "Well, they tend to be up for much of the night, sleep much of the day. Alokoth is often on the balcony keeping an eye on things. You'd probably catch him in his room before dawn - there are sentries on the perimeter watch towers, but I agree, if you're quiet you could come up from the cellar and climb, sneak through his window in the interior yard. It's shuttered, but not barred. Some nice transparent glass - oh well, we can always buy more." She smiles. "I like Erasmus' plan," Norrin says. "Get them when they're sleeping. But a thought occurred to me. Do Gurzun and Alokoth ever leave? Any chance we could ambush them outside of the festhall and take them down that way? Sort of like when Jack and I rescued you from Ostrikka the slaver, Barbara. Her superiors probably think she just ran off. As far as I know, her corpse is still rotting in the bushes on the side of the road where we left her." He unconsciously touches his side, a scar still present where he was almost literally cut in half by the half-orc's axes. Barbara shudders at the memory of Ostrikka. "He never left the Hall that I saw... he seems to like it there. Merchants bring him everything he needs. People come visit him. They don't hunt. They only even leave the building for some weapons training in the front yard."

seeing all this happening "Beverly what does Gurzun in the Festhall anyway?" 

OOC Are you asking what he does? He controls it & takes most of the money. :) WhiteValyrian said: seeing all this happening "Beverly what does Gurzun in the Festhall anyway?" 

"HAhaaha sorry i should be specific does he leave his room Gurzun i mean and does he ever went out the Festhall maybe even train with his men?"

WhiteValyrian said: "HAhaaha sorry i should be specific does he leave his room Gurzun i mean and does he ever went out the Festhall maybe even train with his men?" Beverly Courana: "Oh yes Strohm, he mostly stays upstairs, but he's out training with his men in the courtyard, every other day I think."

"A few more pieces of information, if you don't mind, Lady D'Ashe? They may seem insignificant, but knowing the details can mean the difference between success and failure. 1. Do you recall which way doors open? That is to say, do you push or pull to enter a room?  2. Do you recall if any of the stairs or floorboards that we would need to traverse are loose? 3. Do you know if the men are loyal to Gurzun or Alokoth, or are they merely employed?  4. Are there any other specific personalities we should be aware of? Perhaps a third in command, or someone less assuming that may have a particular set of skills that may cause us difficulties; casters or sneaky buggers - no offense, Tenho.  5. Do you know if there is any way the secret tunnel may not be secret? Perhaps you and Jack were followed when you made your escape;or one of your employees could have given up its location in return for clemency?"

1. "They mostly open into the rooms." 2. "I don't think so. I always kept the place in excellent repair." 3. "The soldiers are all Gurzun's old mercenaries, they're loyal to him. The stablehands and smith worked for me before; they have no particular loyalty to him. But they rarely enter the Hall." 4. "The Floor Manager is Will the Weasel - he's tricky. He's not a soldier, but he knows how to run a Festhall; he came with Gurzun. He's sort of a third in command I guess. No casters that I know of." 5. "It's Gurzun's tunnel, he built it. He uses it for 'special guests' he doesn't want seen in the Hall. When Gurzun seized me, I was taken out that way." Barbara pauses. "I'm not sure Gurzun knows I'm alive and free. If he does, well he knows I know about the tunnel." 

Tenho scratches his beard. "The tunnel is a weakness that Gurzun is aware of. The cautious thing to do would be to collapse it. On the other hand, he built it, and clearly finds it useful. By reputation he's a self-confident fellow - perhaps over-confident." Jyrdani: "Anyone who comes in peace can enter the Hall, right? He may not think the tunnel is much of an extra danger. He likely prefers to rely on his own strength, and the numbers of his men." Tenho: "He once had a formidable reputation, leading a mercenary company for Arcata against the Witch King. And he avoided the Goliad. He's only been defeated once -  by Gareth Dragonsbane, at the Battle of Bloodstone. And by all accounts the Heroes of Bloodstone deployed overwhelming magics against the Arcatan host. They did, after all, go on to defeat the Witch King, Orcus, Tiamat...   sadly, we won't have their aid for this expedition." Barbara: "Gurzun claims to have survived a blow from Dragonsbane himself. He likes to show off the scar."

Tim M. said: No hanky panky. XD Jyrdani would like it put on record that this better not be a permanent state of affairs. :p

GM: Everyone who has contributed with IC play during downtime may begin play tonight with an extra Inspiration (stacks w any Inspiration you already hold).

"OK, let's think about this.  1. Doors opening into the room are easier to barricade, which may slow reinforcements. This could be useful.  2. Being quiet will be the key. Once the alarm is raised, we will likely only have a few minutes in which to strike at the armoured ones. Qiviel, Norrin, you both wear heavy armour. How long would you say it takes you to don it? And how much quicker can you do it with help?  3. Are they loyal to him, or his money? I suppose the question is whether they will fight to protect him, or to protect their wages. If it is the latter, as long as they are paid, it may be possible to avoid extended combat once we've dealt with Gurzun and Alokoth. 4. So this Will may be a problem if the men follow his commands. I don't know about you, but I'd rather not split into three groups so we'll have to deal with him as the opportunity arises.  5. That is a problem. If I had a secret tunnel entrance to my stronghold, you can bet your life I'd have it defended. We cannot rely on the element of surprise. Ted, how confident are you that you could talk your way inside into the cellar? 6. This Gurzun sounds like more than a handful for us. Are we sure now is the time to try and retake the hall? People die when things take unexpected turns, Gods rest their souls. We could delay this mission a few weeks. We could take some time, do some research and then deal with the Crimson Monks. That will allow us to get stronger, perhaps, but also to infiltrate the hall. I could perhaps call in a favour to try and get more information on the inner workings of the fest hall."

Tim M. said: "OK, let's think about this.&nbsp; 1. Doors opening into the room are easier to barricade, which may slow reinforcements. This could be useful.&nbsp; 2. Being quiet will be the key. Once the alarm is raised, we will likely only have a few minutes in which to strike at the armoured ones. Qiviel, Norrin, you both wear heavy armour. How long would you say it takes you to don it? And how much quicker can you do it with help?&nbsp; 3. Are they loyal to him, or his money? I suppose the question is whether they will fight to protect him, or to protect their wages. If it is the latter, as long as they are paid, it may be possible to avoid extended combat once we've dealt with Gurzun and Alokoth. 4. So this Will may be a problem if the men follow his commands. I don't know about you, but I'd rather not split into three groups so we'll have to deal with him as the opportunity arises.&nbsp; 5. That is a problem. If I had a secret tunnel entrance to my stronghold, you can bet your life I'd have it defended. We cannot rely on the element of surprise. Ted, how confident are you that you could talk your way inside into the cellar? 6. This Gurzun sounds like more than a handful for us. Are we sure now is the time to try and retake the hall? People die when things take unexpected turns, Gods rest their souls. We could delay this mission a few weeks. We could take some time, do some research and then deal with the Crimson Monks. That will allow us to get stronger, perhaps, but also to infiltrate the hall. I could perhaps call in a favour to try and get more information on the inner workings of the fest hall." OOC:&nbsp; #2 Here it is:&nbsp; <a href="https://roll20.net/compendium/dnd5e/Armor#content" rel="nofollow">https://roll20.net/compendium/dnd5e/Armor#content</a> at the bottom of the page. Having worn armour myself (~mid-13th century chain mail hauberk, plate greaves &amp; chausses, tabard, gauntlets &amp; helm), I will say that 10 minutes is fairly accurate. Lots of straps and buckles. My wife plays ringette (like hockey but different) as a goalie, and she always arrives at the rink an hour before her game just to get ready. Wearing sporting equipment is not unlike medieval armour. IC: "Taking our Gurzun, Alikoth and Will the Weazel quickly could be the key to our success," Norrin says. "Once we show the rest of his men their severed heads and let them know that the festhall is under new management, they may lose the will to fight."

Syrus listens to all this and his eyes glaze over. He started to think if there would be a way a song can be made out of all this and then realised no one would ever want to listen to a song like that :-P Tim M. said: "OK, let's think about this.&nbsp; 1. Doors opening into the room are easier to barricade, which may slow reinforcements. This could be useful.&nbsp; 2. Being quiet will be the key. Once the alarm is raised, we will likely only have a few minutes in which to strike at the armoured ones. Qiviel, Norrin, you both wear heavy armour. How long would you say it takes you to don it? And how much quicker can you do it with help?&nbsp; 3. Are they loyal to him, or his money? I suppose the question is whether they will fight to protect him, or to protect their wages. If it is the latter, as long as they are paid, it may be possible to avoid extended combat once we've dealt with Gurzun and Alokoth. 4. So this Will may be a problem if the men follow his commands. I don't know about you, but I'd rather not split into three groups so we'll have to deal with him as the opportunity arises.&nbsp; 5. That is a problem. If I had a secret tunnel entrance to my stronghold, you can bet your life I'd have it defended. We cannot rely on the element of surprise. Ted, how confident are you that you could talk your way inside into the cellar? 6. This Gurzun sounds like more than a handful for us. Are we sure now is the time to try and retake the hall? People die when things take unexpected turns, Gods rest their souls. We could delay this mission a few weeks. We could take some time, do some research and then deal with the Crimson Monks. That will allow us to get stronger, perhaps, but also to infiltrate the hall. I could perhaps call in a favour to try and get more information on the inner workings of the fest hall."

Eramus: 6. This Gurzun sounds like more than a handful for us. Are we sure now is the time to try and retake the hall? People die when things take unexpected turns, Gods rest their souls. We could delay this mission a few weeks. We could take some time, do some research and then deal with the Crimson Monks. That will allow us to get stronger, perhaps, but also to infiltrate the hall. I could perhaps call in a favour to try and get more information on the inner workings of the fest hall." Norrin: "Taking our Gurzun, Alikoth and Will the Weazel quickly could be the key to our success," Norrin says. "Once we show the rest of his men their severed heads and let them know that the festhall is under new management, they may lose the will to fight." Barbara glowers at Erasmus: "I don't know why you don't believe I don't already know all the inner workings of the Hall - perhaps I've not been clear enough." Her tone is icy. She looks to Norrin. "I agree. They practically worship Gurzun - with him dead they'll be quick to lose heart. Without Alokoth either, they won't have effective leadership. With those two gone I wouldn't worry about Will too much - he knows which way the winds blow."

"My Lady, please do not take my caution as mistrust. My suggestion is simply to get better understanding of how things operate now. I appreciate your desire to return home, but what chance will you have if we all die in the process of reclaiming it for you? I mean no disrespect, of course, but will you be joining us in this endeavour? "That information is useful, Norrin. We now know we will have no more than ten minutes from the alarm being raised. The quicker we get to them both, the less opportunity they have to have their pants on."

OOC: Can I get a bead on that icy look. There have been a couple of incidents now where Barbara has been... chilly... towards Erasmus. P-INS 14

"Lady Barbara has a friend in Sir Einar of Ramvira," Norrin replies, "and he would be more than happy to see to her safety should things go awry, and she needs to escape. I think she should accompany us on this. When the fight starts, she can see to the safety of the girls there and make sure they are evacuated."

Tim M. said: OOC: Can I get a bead on that icy look. There have been a couple of incidents now where Barbara has been... chilly... towards Erasmus. P-INS 14 She seems to find you quite annoying!

Tim M. said: "My Lady, please do not take my caution as mistrust. My suggestion is simply to get better understanding of how things operate now. I appreciate your desire to return home, but what chance will you have if we all die in the process of reclaiming it for you? I mean no disrespect, of course, but will you be joining us in this endeavour? Barbara stares at Erasmus: "Of course I'll be going with you - it's my Hall !" She takes a moment. "As I'm sure Mr Isotalo here can confirm, our greatest advantage is surprise. The more we delay, the greater the likelihood Gurzun is aware I'm alive, and what my plans are. Yes I agree we send a single unremarkable scout first to check the state of alertness. But I'm tired of delays - I've just waited another two weeks. If you don't wish to come with us, I'm sure that is fine."

Simon N. said: Tim M. said: OOC: Can I get a bead on that icy look. There have been a couple of incidents now where Barbara has been... chilly... towards Erasmus. P-INS 14 She seems to find you quite annoying! Erasmus can handle that.&nbsp;

Erasmus looks between Barbara and Norrin.&nbsp; "Very well. From here, I shall follow your lead." He sits back in his chair and crosses his arms.&nbsp; "You have my staff and my fists."&nbsp;

Babs takes a a moment then says... "As I'm sure Mr Isotalo here can confirm, our greatest advantage is surprise. The more we delay, the greater the likelihood Gurzun is aware I'm alive, and what my plans are. Yes I agree we send a single unremarkable scout first to check the state of alertness. But I'm tired of delays - I've just waited another two weeks. If you don't wish to come with us, I'm sure that is fine." Ted looks up from the rusty mantrap he's poking aimlessly with a gnarly staff covered in rat tails.&nbsp; "Shall I have a look around then dudes?" SNAP!&nbsp; The traps rusty hinges squeal as it snaps shut.&nbsp;&nbsp;

Matt said: Ted looks up from the rusty mantrap he's poking aimlessly with a gnarly staff covered in rat tails.&nbsp; "Shall I have a look around then dudes?" SNAP!&nbsp; The traps rusty hinges squeal as it snaps shut.&nbsp;&nbsp; "Do you have more of those?" Norrin says with interest. "As you're looking around the cellar, it would be a shame if some of them were 'accidentally' left behind, say in strategic places...?"