Resting activities

He then goes to find Syrus. "I have put a little money aside to be distributed in the event of my death. Barbara is aware of my wishes, but I want to ensure you are aware, too. Dthere is 600gp in a chest here at the manor. 50gp to each member of the party. Don't mention it to Jyrdani, but there is a little extra for you and her; share whatever remains between the two of you. Anything I have on me, please return to the Monastery with my body. Thank you, my friend." Syrus replies, "What the heck are you talking about 'Ras, nothing will happen to you while I am around!" he rolls his eyes, "All these reading and meditating business must be making you CRAZY!! Seriously though, I am more concerned that you are hoarding all this money - ain't monks meant to be poor?" , he flicks his hair and walks off... Although seeming dismissive, this made Syrus worry about his dear friend Erasmus - was he planning to do something stupid?? Did the passing of yet another friend make 'Ras feel vulnerable and worry about his own mortality?  Syrus rushes off to find Jyrdani and pulls her aside. "Let's keep an eye of 'Ras - he's being weird - kinda more than usual!!" With that, he rushes off to see the Herbal Experts, better keep the pace up on learning to make Healing Potions, sounds like the skill may be needed sooner than he thought!

Simon N. said: GM: Afrafa is eager to meet with Norrin and find out what's been going on since last they parted. She listens keenly to the tale of Gurzun's Fall, saddened at the death of Jack. Afrafa: "The Brotherhood of the Yellow Rose is very glad to have you as a friend and ally, Norrin. Grand Master Cantoule and Master Temminische believe more dark times are coming, as evil forces try to take advantage of Damara's weakness and confusion, You must have your wits about you at all times. But know that the Yellow Rose will always be a firm friend to those of good heart." She pauses. "Please do not repeat what I am about to tell you..." (long pause) "Grand Master Kane and the Heroes of Damara have identified the great wyrm Nidhogg, paramour of Tiamat, as the cause of these dragon attacks. They have embarked upon a quest for ancient artifacts known as the Orbs of Dragon Control - the only way to save Damara from Tiamat's vengeance. But the Orbs are scattered across the Multiverse. It may take them months - or years. If the people of Damara were to know this, they may lose heart." Norrin looks at the monk incredulously, as if he doesn't quite believe what he is hearing. He quickly regains his composure. "Of course, Mistress. Your secret is safe with me. I am heartened by the fact that such august heroes are investigating this themselves, and I understand the importance of keeping the citizens calm. If word should get out, the ensuing panic of a mass exodus would be catastrophic. The people of Damara have faced enough hardship in recent times, and they deserve some peace." He bows to her, as he has seen her bow in the past. "I am humbled and honoured by your kind words, Mistress. I am but a simple man, seeking only to make my way in the world. I am happy to report that southern Damara is safer now than it has been in recent times. The farmers, miners and foresters are returning, although slowly. The Yellow Rose has friends in Ramvira and D'Ashe Manor, and Duchess Malla of Carmathan is supportive of our cause. The Cult of Chaos is no more, and we are making inroads into the Fallen Halls of Khundrakar. The henchmen of the evil mercenary Zert have been defeated, no small task, as you know, since a member of the Crimson Monks of Thay were among their numbers. Unfortunately, Zert himself still remains at large." He sighs. "Yes, the death of Jack Blackthorn was a heavy blow to us. He was a good friend and a powerful ally, and he will be missed."

Geoff said: Simon N. said: GM: Afrafa is eager to meet with Norrin and find out what's been going on since last they parted. She listens keenly to the tale of Gurzun's Fall, saddened at the death of Jack. Afrafa: "The Brotherhood of the Yellow Rose is very glad to have you as a friend and ally, Norrin. Grand Master Cantoule and Master Temminische believe more dark times are coming, as evil forces try to take advantage of Damara's weakness and confusion, You must have your wits about you at all times. But know that the Yellow Rose will always be a firm friend to those of good heart." She pauses. "Please do not repeat what I am about to tell you..." (long pause) "Grand Master Kane and the Heroes of Damara have identified the great wyrm Nidhogg, paramour of Tiamat, as the cause of these dragon attacks. They have embarked upon a quest for ancient artifacts known as the Orbs of Dragon Control - the only way to save Damara from Tiamat's vengeance. But the Orbs are scattered across the Multiverse. It may take them months - or years. If the people of Damara were to know this, they may lose heart." Norrin looks at the monk incredulously, as if he doesn't quite believe what he is hearing. He quickly regains his composure. "Of course, Mistress. Your secret is safe with me. I am heartened by the fact that such august heroes are investigating this themselves, and I understand the importance of keeping the citizens calm. If word should get out, the ensuing panic of a mass exodus would be catastrophic. The people of Damara have faced enough hardship in recent times, and they deserve some peace." He bows to her, as he has seen her bow in the past. "I am humbled and honoured by your kind words, Mistress. I am but a simple man, seeking only to make my way in the world. I am happy to report that southern Damara is safer now than it has been in recent times. The farmers, miners and foresters are returning, although slowly. The Yellow Rose has friends in Ramvira and D'Ashe Manor, and Duchess Malla of Carmathan is supportive of our cause. The Cult of Chaos is no more, and we are making inroads into the Fallen Halls of Khundrakar. The henchmen of the evil mercenary Zert have been defeated, no small task, as you know, since a member of the Crimson Monks of Thay were among their numbers. Unfortunately, Zert himself still remains at large." He sighs. "Yes, the death of Jack Blackthorn was a heavy blow to us. He was a good friend and a powerful ally, and he will be missed." Afrafa nods, smiling slightly at Norrin's efforts at formality and report. "I know Sir Dahnim is very pleased with your progress. He has spoken privately with Lady D'Ashe about the possibility of a new Barony on Carmathan's western frontier... although of course this would ultimately be up to the Duke of Arcata." Afrafa looks to the window, warm afternoon sunlight filtering through stained glass. She sighs. "The dragons may not even be the worst threat. Numerous demon cults contend for dominance in the aftermath of Orcus' fall. Of particular concern to us is a rising power of the Underdark some call the Worm God, the Devourer, or the Burrower Beneath. They say it seeks to corrupt the Weave - what the Druids call the Ley Lines, or the Earth Power - to its service. And to unite all the forces of Darkness in its tentacled embrace. We have received rumours of civil war among the Drow, as the cults of Lloth and the Devourer contend for dominance deep beneath the earth."

Back at the manor, Erasmus spends most of his time either outside toiling in the vegetate plot, in the Forge watching Fraenar work and offering whatever assistance is required, or in his room meditating. He avoids the common room as much as possible as the scantily clad and semi naked working girls make him feel uncomfortable.  He takes occasional walks outside of the confines of the manor grounds with Jyrdani and he asks for her story; where she comes from, who she is, who her family are, why she took up adventuring, and what she plans for the future. They find a lone oak tree and sit in its shade together. He strokes her fiery hair absent-mindedly as he listens. 

Tim M. said: Back at the manor, Erasmus spends most of his time either outside toiling in the vegetate plot, in the Forge watching Fraenar work and offering whatever assistance is required, or in his room meditating. He avoids the common room as much as possible as the scantily clad and semi naked working girls make him feel uncomfortable.  He takes occasional walks outside of the confines of the manor grounds with Jyrdani and he asks for her story; where she comes from, who she is, who her family are, why she took up adventuring, and what she plans for the future. They find a lone oak tree and sit in its shade together. He strokes her fiery hair absent-mindedly as he listens.  Jyrdani tells Erasmus of growing up on a Nar smallholding near Jiyyd, far far to the east. Of the day five years ago that raiders attacked the farm, slaughtered her family, abused her and left her for dead. Of the Great Eagle Spirit that appeared to her as she lay dying, giving her the strength to survive - and fight back. Of joining with others to hunt down and slay the brigands, then setting off as a caravan guard and sometime adventurer, eventually wandering westwards along the Long Road to Trail's End in Damara, where she met the merchant-sage Tenho Isotalo during a bar-room brawl. Impressed by her ability to lay low men twice her size, Tenho recruited her for an expedition into ruined Fort Skulnar, in search of documents detailing the secret entrance into the Fallen Halls. She grins. "The rest you know."

OOC Tim I've given you access to Jyrdani's PC sheet. Could you track her gold for me? Currently at 331gp.

Simon N. said: Jyrdani tells Erasmus of growing up on a Nar smallholding near Jiyyd, far far to the east. Of the day five years ago that raiders attacked the farm, slaughtered her family, abused her and left her for dead. Of the Great Eagle Spirit that appeared to her as she lay dying, giving her the strength to survive - and fight back. Of joining with others to hunt down and slay the brigands, then setting off as a caravan guard and sometime adventurer, eventually wandering westwards along the Long Road to Trail's End in Damara, where she met the merchant-sage Tenho Isotalo during a bar-room brawl. Impressed by her ability to lay low men twice her size, Tenho recruited her for an expedition into ruined Fort Skulnar, in search of documents detailing the secret entrance into the Fallen Halls. She grins. "The rest you know." Erasmus is solomn with recognition as Jyrdani speaks of the raid. "You were so young to have lost so much. My loss came much later in life, and I have the Monastery to thank for my recovery. If I can help you come to terms with your past, I will.  "I have an idea about how you feel about me, and I think you understand that I care for you. To be honest, however, I have one remaining issue with our relationship; I am old enough to be your father. I wonder sometimes whether that is only a problem for me? What will others think of this crotchety old fool being amorous with such a young, fierce beauty as you?" Simon N. said: OOC Tim I've given you access to Jyrdani's PC sheet. Could you track her gold for me? Currently at 331gp. Will do. Thanks. 

Jyrdani gives Erasmus a sidewise glance, and a faint wry smile. "It's a problem if you make it so." Jyrdani turns away, gazing out across the heathland west towards the looming mountains, peaks capped with eternal snow. Her expression grows dark, as grim as those icy peaks. "She's dead. You do know that, right?" Tim M. said: Erasmus is solomn with recognition as Jyrdani speaks of the raid. "You were so young to have lost so much. My loss came much later in life, and I have the Monastery to thank for my recovery. If I can help you come to terms with your past, I will.  "I have an idea about how you feel about me, and I think you understand that I care for you. To be honest, however, I have one remaining issue with our relationship; I am old enough to be your father. I wonder sometimes whether that is only a problem for me? What will others think of this crotchety old fool being amorous with such a young, fierce beauty as you?"

Simon N. said: Jyrdani gives Erasmus a sidewise glance, and a faint wry smile. "It's a problem if you make it so." Erasmus chuckles. "That's fair."  Jyrdani turns away, gazing out across the heathland west towards the looming mountains, peaks capped with eternal snow. Her expression grows dark, as grim as those icy peaks. "She's dead. You do know that, right?" His face falls. "Yes. I think I do."  He wraps his arms around her, holds her tight then kisses her deeply. 

Simon N. said: Afrafa nods, smiling slightly at Norrin's efforts at formality and report. "I know Sir Dahnim is very pleased with your progress. He has spoken privately with Lady D'Ashe about the possibility of a new Barony on Carmathan's western frontier... although of course this would ultimately be up to the Duke of Arcata." Afrafa looks to the window, warm afternoon sunlight filtering through stained glass. She sighs. "The dragons may not even be the worst threat. Numerous demon cults contend for dominance in the aftermath of Orcus' fall. Of particular concern to us is a rising power of the Underdark some call the Worm God, the Devourer, or the Burrower Beneath. They say it seeks to corrupt the Weave - what the Druids call the Ley Lines, or the Earth Power - to its service. And to unite all the forces of Darkness in its tentacled embrace. We have received rumours of civil war among the Drow, as the cults of Lloth and the Devourer contend for dominance deep beneath the earth." Norrin thanks Afrafa and takes his leave, deep in thought. A drow civil war? A flight of dragons? This is more than he can comprehend. He hopes the drow keep to their caverns and the darkness, but he knows that's not likely to happen.The same with the dragons. Perhaps Gareth Dragonsbane and the Heroes of Bloodstone can find a solution. But it might give him something to do for the next twenty years. But for his more immediate thoughts. Apparently Barbara had been thinking about the future quite thoroughly and seeks a barony for herself. And found a champion to assist her in that. He chuckles to himself. Should be be feeling used? Does she want him solely for his sword arm, and as a companion in bed? He dismisses the thought, smiling. Aye, he wants a lordship for himself as well, perhaps the same as what Einar has achieved. Perhaps more. And having a beautiful woman by his side while doing so won't hurt! But why stop at a barony? Why not a dukedom? Apparently Duke William Horgath, called "The Lazy", isn't much of a ruler, and actually fought against Bloodstone in the opening days of the war. Although that has long since resolved, and any animosity between the two baronies has been dealt with, it still remains that Duke William is weak; likewise, the people of Arcata, farmers and miners mostly, fully support the idea of a new kingdom with Gareth Dragonsbane as the ruler. It would do southern Damara a lot of good if the Duchy of Arcata had a new ruler, one who is friendly and cognizant to what's going on, and can deal with the region. So... why not him? He laughs at his own thoughts, drawing curious looks from those around him. Norrin wants titles, but he doesn't think "The Usurper" should be one of them. Right now, he's happy with being Norrin, Son of Thorrin, Champion of D'Ashe, Slayer of the Ogre War-Chief Ulfe, Friend of the Yellow Rose. But in the future....

Geoff said: o Norrin wants titles,  OOC totally read that as "titties" and thought "First Strohm, now Norrin?!" 

Again, let me know if these stats need amending: Norrin Son of Thorin  (Geoff) Human male Fighter-5 (Champion) PB+3 XP 7169/14000  AC 22  (plate +1 & shield +1)  HP 49  (CON 16) P-PER 15 P-INV 12 P-INS 15 MI:  +1 Nar 'hero sword' longsword, +1 plate armour, +1 shield Erasmus Bos  (Tim), Human male Monk-4 ( Open Hand)   XP: 4553/6500   AC 16   HP 31  P-PER 14 P-INV 13 P-INS 14 MI:  +1 Darkwood quarterstaff, bead of force Syrus  (Kenny), Half-Elf male Bard-4   (Lore) XP: 4438/6500  AC 14   HP 31  P-PER 13 P-INV 12 P-INS 13. MI:  +1 shortsword  'Victrix',  rope of climbing ,  Gurzun's  +1 greatsword, lantern of revealing Strohm  of Leth (Muiz) High Elf male Fighter-4 (Eldritch Knight) XP 3199/6500  AC 19  (orog plate, defence style)  HP 36  (CON 14)   P-PER 11 P-INV 12 P-INS 9.  MI:  +2 Greatsword  -  Excruciator, the Sword of Amaul, aka the Sword of the Sorcerer (sheds light as per spell on command) Qiviel  (Keelia) Human female Paladin-4 (Oath of Devotion )  XP 2755/6500  AC 22  (plate,  shield +1 ,  ring of protection )   HP 36  P-PER 11 P-INV 10 P-INS 13.  ST +3 DE -1 CO +2 IN +0 WI +1 CH +3 Saves all +1: STR +4 DEX +0 CON +3 IN +2 WIS +4 (+3) Prof CHA +6 (+5) Prof, fine roan mare  Rocco  w saddle & tack.  MI:  ruby   ring of protection   attuned, knight's   shield +1,  Jack's  +1 longsword Malied  Edicast  (James) Half-Elf male Wizard-3 XP 2350/2700  AC 13/16  mage armour  HP 14  P-PER 13 P-INV 16 P-INS 11. Boon:  +2 INT  from Gina the Gynosphinx Ted  (Matt) Half-Orc male Rogue-2 XP 650/900  AC 15  (studded)  HP 17  P-PER 15 P-INV 9 P-INS 11 MI: Ostrikka's/Jack's  gauntlets of ogre power STR 19 Fraener   ap Durgeddin  (Chris) Mountain Dwarf Forge Cleric-2 XP 450/900  AC 19>21  (AC19 plate armour  blessed  to +1, +2 for shield)  HP 19  E: Gurzun's plate armour (reforged) P-PER 12 P-INV 10 P-INS 14

His face falls. "Yes. I think I do."  He wraps his arms around her, holds her tight then kisses her deeply.  ...Syrus may or may not have been hiding in the tree branches above listening, and you may or may not have heard his chuckle to himself....

Kenny H. said: ...Syrus may or may not have been hiding in the tree branches above listening, and you may or may not have heard his chuckle to himself.... Yeah, we heard you!

Tim M. said: Kenny H. said: ...Syrus may or may not have been hiding in the tree branches above listening, and you may or may not have heard his chuckle to himself.... Yeah, we heard you! :-P ...then you may also have noticed the bit of glitter confetti that "accidentally" fell out of Syrus' pocket.... ;)

Kenny H. said: ...then you may also have noticed the bit of glitter confetti that "accidentally" fell out of Syrus' pocket.... ;) Argh! Not the glitter! That stuff gets everywhere !  Erasmus walks a now sparkly Jyrdani back to the manor where they both take a nice long hot bath to rinse away the motes of gold and silver. He washes her red hair, admiring the image as the wet strands stick to her sun-kissed skin, drinking in the form of her perfectly sculpted and exquisitely defined musculature. This woman could almost definitely break him in two if she chose to.  She washes him, too. She runs her fingers through his hair and his beard to remove all trace of the confetti. She rubs his chest, softened by the years, yet hardened through hours upon hours of gruelling toil and training at the Monastery.  They emerge together, wrap themselves in linen towels and she leads him by the hand to their bedchamber. Once there, they let the cloth fall to the floor as they clamber onto the mattress and into each other's arms.  Tomorrow, there may be battles, or treasure, or intrigue. Tonight, however, there is only each other. The camera   pans to the fireplace, then fades to black. 

*aawww* :-)

Tim M. said: Geoff said: o Norrin wants titles,  OOC totally read that as "titties" and thought "First Strohm, now Norrin?!"  OOC: I thought that was a given, but no. Norrin has his eye on the bigger prize. Power and glory!

Syrus right now: <a href="https://tenor.com/bmcho.gif" rel="nofollow">https://tenor.com/bmcho.gif</a>

OOC: Wow! I just noticed how far Erasmus and Jyrdani's room is from the baths. That was a long walk in just their towels, and through the common room, too! o_O

Tim M. said: OOC: Wow! I just noticed how far Erasmus and Jyrdani's room is from the baths. That was a long walk in just their towels, and through the common room, too! o_O Unless Barbara lets them use the iconic (&amp; v ery NSFW )&nbsp;bath tub in her &amp; Norrin's room? There is a private door between the two rooms! :D The downstairs baths are normally for paying guests, who stay on the ground floor. You can avoid the common room by using the back way though - turn right out the bathroom door, follow passage round to the left, take the left door onto the open yard/light well, and cross over to the back stairway.

3/9/1359, evening. With armour forging, resting, training etc completed, Lady D'Ashe calls you all together for an excellent dinner of roast boar &amp; apple pie (courtesy Gila &amp; Cindli in the kitchen, Alice serving), to plan your next move. Sat close beside Erasmus, Jyrdani of Jiyyd seems a lot happier and more relaxed of late, smiling frequently. Tenho Isotalo: "My friends, I suggest this would be an excellent time to make another attempt upon the Fallen Halls of Khundrakar. I believe the Foundry is the area most likely to hold weapons once forged by Durgeddin the Black. The Glitterhame and the lower caves of the Sinkhole and the Black Lake should also be worth searching. Once cleared of monsters, the Dwarves should have the opportunity to reclaim their Halls." Tenho turns to Fraener. "From my inspection, the Orc tunnel into the Glitterhame seemed sturdily constructed, with use of crude stone supports rather than perishable timber. But I'm sure it could be successfully collapsed, given time and skill."

Erasmus, equally relaxed, rests his elbows on the table and leans in.&nbsp; "We knew there were ogres and orcs in the Mountain Door. What do we know of the denizens of the Glitterhame and the Forge? If we go in, are we likely to be facing more orcs? Are there goblins, ogres or something more?"&nbsp; Syrus sits nearby, grinning from ear to ear.&nbsp;

Simon N. said: Unless Barbara lets them use the iconic (&amp; v ery NSFW )&nbsp;bath tub in her &amp; Norrin's room? There is a private door between the two rooms! :D Only if Norrin doesn't mind. Erasmus would certainly prefer not having to make that walk if he can help it. He can't talk for Jyrdani, however. He'll totally follow her lead (mostly because he's not going to argue with those guns!)&nbsp;

Tim M. said: Syrus right now: <a href="https://tenor.com/bmcho.gif" rel="nofollow">https://tenor.com/bmcho.gif</a> YOU KNOW IT!!! :))))))

Fraener grunts at Tenho’s suggestion.&nbsp; (OOC - did anyone see my post regarding the Lost Halls? I posted it in the map section by mistake.) ”If Orcs built it, I can bring it down.” He looks around at the others, his eyes finally coming to rest back on Tenho. ”There are the riches of my forefather’s which will benefit each of you of course. But also, if I can refire the forges, great wealth and power will again flow from the Mountain. Kingdoms have been built on less..”

Erasmus chimes in again, ignoring any looks of annoyance from Barbara. "What do you need to light the furnaces, Fraener? And do you know whether the orc and goblin hordes remain? How do you know these 'riches' remain within the Forge? Why would the invaders not have stripped the halls bare?&nbsp; "I apologise for all the questions, but I like to have at least some idea of what I am going up against before risking my life." He turns and looks at Jyrdani. "Especially now as, apparently, I actually have some reason to live it."&nbsp;

(Syrus, right now:&nbsp;<a href="https://tenor.com/btPvu.gif" rel="nofollow">https://tenor.com/btPvu.gif</a>)&nbsp;

"From the last dive to the fallen halls we met a couple of troglodytes I expect seeing more of them maybe even the grizzly bear again" "Also Erasmus lighting the forge is an expression meaning Fraener wishes to bring back the dwarf forges back into operation this important as the only thing dwarves love more than alcohol is to craft things"

Tim M. said: Erasmus, equally relaxed, rests his elbows on the table and leans in.&nbsp; "We knew there were ogres and orcs in the Mountain Door. What do we know of the denizens of the Glitterhame and the Forge? If we go in, are we likely to be facing more orcs? Are there goblins, ogres or something more?"&nbsp; Syrus sits nearby, grinning from ear to ear.&nbsp; Tenho shrugs. "I think we can expect troglodytes. The written and eye-witness accounts of previous expeditions tell of miscellaneous dungeon vermin, notably a kind of 'land squid' I believe may be 'Gricks'. Nothing we can't handle, I hope."

Chris T. said: Fraener grunts at Tenho’s suggestion.&nbsp; (OOC - did anyone see my post regarding the Lost Halls? I posted it in the map section by mistake.) ”If Orcs built it, I can bring it down.” He looks around at the others, his eyes finally coming to rest back on Tenho. ”There are the riches of my forefather’s which will benefit each of you of course. But also, if I can refire the forges, great wealth and power will again flow from the Mountain. Kingdoms have been built on less..” Tenho nods. "Indeed, yes! A reborn dwarf-hold could be of great benefit to all Damara." He looks to Barbara. "And to D'Ashe Manor, perhaps most of all." Barbara smiles wryly, perhaps wondering to whose benefit Tenho Isotalo is really most concerned. Barbara: "Yes, indeed. D'Ashe Manor would welcome a reborn Khundrakar upon her western flank."

Tim M. said: (Syrus, right now:&nbsp; <a href="https://tenor.com/btPvu.gif" rel="nofollow">https://tenor.com/btPvu.gif</a> )&nbsp; Oh you crazy Critters :p

Tim M. said: Erasmus chimes in again, ignoring any looks of annoyance from Barbara. "What do you need to light the furnaces, Fraener? And do you know whether the orc and goblin hordes remain? How do you know these 'riches' remain within the Forge? Why would the invaders not have stripped the halls bare?&nbsp; "I apologise for all the questions, but I like to have at least some idea of what I am going up against before risking my life." He turns and looks at Jyrdani. "Especially now as, apparently, I actually have some reason to live it."&nbsp; Tenho: "I have been researching the Fallen Halls for quite some time. I've interviewed a fellow called Elmo of Hommlet, a Ranger, who was with a party that entered the Glitterhame some twenty or so years ago. They found several enchanted items of Durgeddin's craft, scattered about the Glitterhame and Foundry. I believe more may well remain. If not in the upper levels, then perhaps in the Sink Hole or the Black Lake. And of course..." Tenho half draws his slim blade, showing the dwarf mark on its hilt. "This sword we took from Ulfe's hoard itself shows the Durgeddin mark."

ome Tim M. said: "I apologise for all the questions, but I like to have at least some idea of what I am going up against before risking my life." He turns and looks at Jyrdani. "Especially now as, apparently, I actually have some reason to live it."&nbsp; Jyrdani smiles back, but looks a little worried at the thought of Erasmus imperilled. Jyrdani: "Someone needs to defend the Manor while we are gone. Erasmus, perhaps you..." Barbara: "I will remain here of course. I was thinking that Fraener's doughty followers could stay here too and protect the Manor in your absence." Jyrdani: "I was thinking that Erasmus..."

"If you think I'm letting you go off to have all the fun without me, after all my dithering, you've another think coming my dear! You said it yourself, we make a good team. Let's show some troglodytes what your sword and my fists can do."&nbsp; He waits until Barbara's attention moves on before leaning in toward Jyrdani and dropping his tone. "Besides, between you and I, I don't really think our gracious host would be too pleased to have me of all people hanging around the place."

Tim M. said: "If you think I'm letting you go off to have all the fun without me, after all my dithering, you've another think coming my dear! You said it yourself, we make a good team. Let's show some troglodytes what your sword and my fists can do."&nbsp; He waits until Barbara's attention moves on before leaning in toward Jyrdani and dropping his tone. "Besides, between you and I, I don't really think our gracious host would be too pleased to have me of all people hanging around the place." Jyrdani sighs, smiling in mock annoyance. "Well it was worth a try, right? Just be careful this time - remember, you have something to live for - I hope..."

Tenho: "Elmo did tell me that his adventuring companion, the Wizard Idanus, chose to remain at Khundrakar to continue his researches. While I doubt he is still alive after all this time, we may encounter relics of his handicraft."

Simon N. &nbsp;said: "Well it was worth a try, right? Just be careful this time - remember, you have something to live for - I hope..." "I do. But I hardly think Syrus will let me die just yet; he's been desperate for us - okay, me - to get ourselves on the same page for months ! Gotta give him something to live for, too!"&nbsp;

Tim M. said: "I do. But I hardly think Syrus will let me die just yet; he's been desperate for us - okay, me - to get ourselves on the same page for months ! Gotta give him something to live for, too!"&nbsp; Jyrdani just giggles at that. For a moment she resembles the young girl she was, five years ago. She looks to Syrus. "As a matchmaker, he is surely without compare."

Simon N. said: Jyrdani just giggles at that. For a moment she resembles the young girl she was, five years ago. She looks to Syrus. "As a matchmaker, he is surely without compare." Erasmus chuckles. "He is certainly persistent, I'll give him that." He reaches over and brushes a lock of hair from her face. "But, I am certainly grateful."&nbsp; Erasmus is no longer paying any attention to the conversation at the table.&nbsp; OOC: Grr. You said she wasn't a giggler! XD

Tim M. said: Simon N. said: Jyrdani just giggles at that. For a moment she resembles the young girl she was, five years ago. She looks to Syrus. "As a matchmaker, he is surely without compare." Erasmus chuckles. "He is certainly persistent, I'll give him that." He reaches over and brushes a lock of hair from her face. "But, I am certainly grateful."&nbsp; Erasmus is no longer paying any attention to the conversation at the table.&nbsp; OOC: Grr. You said she wasn't a giggler! XD OOC Nookie makes all the difference. :p

OOC Erasmus may be forced to reevaluate his life choices.&nbsp;

Simon N. said: Tenho: "I have been researching the Fallen Halls for quite some time. I've interviewed a fellow called Elmo of Hommlet, a Ranger, who was with a party that entered the Glitterhame some twenty or so years ago. They found several enchanted items of Durgeddin's craft, scattered about the Glitterhame and Foundry. I believe more may well remain. If not in the upper levels, then perhaps in the Sink Hole or the Black Lake. And of course..." Tenho half draws his slim blade, showing the dwarf mark on its hilt. "This sword we took from Ulfe's hoard itself shows the Durgeddin mark." "I never thought about it but I wonder who made the Excruciator, it is impressively enchanted with increase sharpness and ability to cast a simple light spell. Seeing a cult leader possessing such a powerful sword makes me fear that other cults have such weapons as well, if we want to defeat the other evil cults roaming this land we must gather enchanted gear ourselves. saving this forge could very well mean saving Damara and beyond"

Tim M. said: Only if Norrin doesn't mind. Erasmus would certainly prefer not having to make that walk if he can help it. He can't talk for Jyrdani, however. He'll totally follow her lead (mostly because he's not going to argue with those guns!)&nbsp; "Just leave a scarf or something tied to the door handle," Norrin replies, smirking, "so no one inadvertently enters when things are going on." He drops the smirk when he spies Barbara's disapproving look. &nbsp; (edited by DM - Barbara doesn't disapprove, unless it means being kept out of her bedroom too long) :D "I have worked with Elmo in the past," Norrin says. "A good man. Trustworthy. If he says something, it's because he believes it to be so, to the best of his knowledge. He will not set us on the wrong course." "But I share everyone's goal. Returning Fallen Halls of Khundrakar to the dwarves will benefit not just Arcata and Carmathan, but all of Damara. It will definitely make things difficult for the orcs and ogres in the region, and drive them back into their dark burrows Hopefully to stay." He turns to Barbara. "If you can persuade the dwarves to stay here, and with the house guards who remained behind, you should be safe. I'm sure word has gotten out far and wide about the change in ownership, and apparently our names mean something now. Should you need any assistance, Einar is but a day's ride away in Ramvira. He's loyal to Carmathan, but he won't abandon a friend in need."

Tenho looks smug: "Legend attests that Excruciator was crafted by the court magist to one of the old Banacath kings of Damara...possibly Heldrin III? I'd need to check the records. Lost when the King's Champion Amaul was slain in the sacking of the Shrine of Chaos in Darkwood. You found it in the Shrine, yes?" WhiteValyrian said: Simon N. said: Tenho: "I have been researching the Fallen Halls for quite some time. I've interviewed a fellow called Elmo of Hommlet, a Ranger, who was with a party that entered the Glitterhame some twenty or so years ago. They found several enchanted items of Durgeddin's craft, scattered about the Glitterhame and Foundry. I believe more may well remain. If not in the upper levels, then perhaps in the Sink Hole or the Black Lake. And of course..." Tenho half draws his slim blade, showing the dwarf mark on its hilt. "This sword we took from Ulfe's hoard itself shows the Durgeddin mark." "I never thought about it but I wonder who made the Excruciator, it is impressively enchanted with increase sharpness and ability to cast a simple light spell. Seeing a cult leader possessing such a powerful sword makes me fear that other cults have such weapons as well, if we want to defeat the other evil cults roaming this land we must gather enchanted gear ourselves. saving this forge could very well mean saving Damara and beyond"

GM: Not sure who this refers to - the mercenaries all left. The blacksmith &amp; the three stable hands are all strapping lads, though. With the dwarves that makes seven. Geoff said: with the house guards who remained behind

"yes Tenho its from the shrine of chaos, so even champions fall to the dark gods and their minions"

Geoff said: "Just leave a scarf or something tied to the door handle," Norrin replies, smirking, "so no one inadvertently enters when things are going on." He drops the smirk when he spies Barbara's disapproving look. &nbsp; (edited by DM - Barbara doesn't disapprove, unless it means being kept out of her bedroom too long) :D Erasmus blushes slightly at the insinuation. (OOC timeline is a little muddled, but you can work it out!)&nbsp; "Oh, well. Er... No, nothing like that! We're just looking to take baths and not have to face a walk back to the chamber."&nbsp; Jyrdani moves closer, hugging his arm and pressing up against him. "Well, if they're offering," she whispers seductively in his ear, "perhaps you could help me wash this glitter off? Then I can help you, too."&nbsp; Erasmus's eyes widen a little at the powerful barbarian's suggestion. Well, that and the fact she gave his bum a squeeze as she offered her assistance.&nbsp; "Oh! Um, ahem, okay, I think? In, um, that case, er, I'll thank you for your, um... hospitality(?)...&nbsp; Norrin, and we'll be on our way. The, er, door between our Chambers does, um, lock , right?"&nbsp;

OOC: Whoops! Sorry. This is what I get for trying to quickly MIS read these posts on my phone when I'm at work. Just a side-effect of being in a radically different time zone. Sorry Simon, I thought some of the festhall guards stayed around after Alokoth had left. I guess not.

Ted will spend his down time riding, getting familiar with the surrounding countryside and it's denizens; north as far as Ramvira, east to Egilmont, the dwarf holds and particularly the route/s to the Fallen Halls.&nbsp; During his stays at the hall, he'll pass on any useful information and ask Tenho about his research.