Furgh has spent much of the meantime with Findas, and reading a book.
Meanwhile, Zanax has retreived the books from the library. It takes four days to recover all of the books. the secret room is now full to overflowing. On the morning of November 5th Zanax goes and looks at the meditation chambers, returning after less than 2 hours.
"Whew! I think we're ready to start our own library. It's going to take a while to go through these books. Are we ready to make Sandas our base of operations? If so, perhaps we should start looking for a large enough place to hold all of these books, too!"
Hlarn is in favor of making Sandas our base of operations. "Rather than lease a house, I wonder if we could purchase land and have one built to our own specifications."
After returning from the meditation chamber, Zanax strongly suggests, "I think we should move out of here as soon as possible. I think we should either strike out against the thieves guild in Sandas or follow one of my visions Votishal granted me."
"Ray Jay said she had more business for us, as soon as we were done here."
Hlarn nods. "We'll see what Ray Jay has in mind also. As for the thieves guild, that entices me, but we should obtain permission of the Baron of Sandas first. He might not like the idea of an unauthorized warzone inside his city, and such an action is sure to get ugly quickly."
Zanax frowns. "Permission? It's best that no one know beforehand what we plan to do. Certainly, my temple never asked for permission."
Furgh snorts in disgust. "Count me out. You wanna go slaughter a few folks who's main crime is never gettin' a break, that's yer business... but not my cup o' beer."
"You're pathetic and naive, Furgh. The people who run the thieves guild aren't nice people. They rob, extort, terrorize, and kill innocent people. I know, because I used to be a member. But if you want to go on running blindly through life, ignorant of all the evil around you, that's your problem."
"I may be pathetic, but oftimes, yer little more'n a murderer," he quips back. "Sure, the ones that run it might be scum. I emphasise 'might'. But most of the ones under 'em are just normal folk, forced into a bad situation. And they're the ones yer gonna be single-mindedly cuttin' down ta get where yer goin'."
"You're an even bigger fool if you think that we're just going to try and eliminate the whole guild. Even our temple never thought of doing a frontal assault. The ones we'd be going after are the leaders of the guild. Votishal desires the destruction of the guild, not of every thief...unless, of course, he's evil."
"I'm fool enough ta know you'd happily carve said way, if it got you where you want to go," The elf replies with a shrug. "This ain't bein' naive. I've been there. Kailar probably has too. Most a these folk don't deserve yer kind a 'justice'."
"Agreed. If you recall, Damius was a member. As I believe Kailar was. The problem usually isn't the individual thief...although, there are those who I wouldn't mind killing...it's the guild and the systematic way it slowly erodes society."
"I've never been a member of any Thieve's Guild anywhere."
Kailar seems insulted by the notion that he had.
"Apologies, Kailar. It was not my intention to insult you."
The elf laughs. "Heard the same thing said 'bout religion."
He shrugs. "But hey, if it floats yer boat... I'm just sayin' I have no intention a helpin' ya do 'er, if that's what you all decide to spend your time at. Hell, I'd probably be more inclinded ta warnin' 'em yer comin'."
Zanax takes a step forward toward Furgh and calmly states, "Is that a threat, Furgh? Because it sounds like one."
Furgh laughs again, even harder. "Not a threat, oh Most Holy One. Merely a statement."
Zanax takes another step forward "Yes, but a statement that threatens not only my life, but those who may go with me."
"Oh, get bent," Furgh replies. "Go pull the big bad paladin act on someone who cares."
"No, there is no need for name calling. Zanax, I agree that the guild has little in the way of redeeming qualities. But Furgh is right, many people do join it because they have little choice in life. Simply going in and killing all we find there is wrong, unless the Baron gives us his blessing that that is what needs to be done."
"But Furgh, Zanax is right. Several of the guild are ruthless. The leader for instance. It would not be so wrong to slay that ruthless man. We know what he looks like. Perhaps we could teleport in and deal a little punishment. Reclaim what is ours."
Rage looks at Hlarn. "A suicide task, if you ask me. First, I suspect that this head man has protections against scrying, I would if I was in charge. That being the case, he would know when we were looking at him, if we could look at him to begin with. Second, as was evident with our most recent teleportation expidation, we could be in for a major surprise. What if one was placed over a trap door. One push and *poof*. Teleportation in and out is not the key, otherwise I suspect that this person would have been killed a long time ago. The only way to get to him, I would suspect is via discovery of the network and moving into the area. Not something I ahve the time or desire to do either. "
"He will not be easy to kill or he would have been dead along time ago. That's the way guilds work."
Zanax merely smiles and pauses. He then turns his attention to Kadlian.
"So, what's our next destination and how do we decide who gets the girdle?"
"We finish this place and discuss whether or not we go after the two lost swords. Then we head back to Sandas and speak with Ray Jay."
"I thought we'd decided we were done with this place."
"Hey, if yer goin' back downstairs, you can count me outta that too," Furgh adds with a frown.
"I know, Furgh, I know. I was not going to suggest that you accompany us."
Kadlian shakes his head. "I believe you, Gnarsh, Sasha and Furgh are done with it, but I am not. There are still a number of rooms down there that may hold captives or other creatures. Once we finish exploring that level, then I am willing to leave this place."
Gnarsh leers.
"If you was so concerned with rescuin' captives, why'd ya spnd a week fuckin' th' dog out in the bush? Any pris'ners probably starved t'death in the meantime."
Kadlian looks confused. "We spent two, maybe three days at the most. How could a week have passed?"
Gnarsh furrows his brow.
"Ain't too good at countin'," he admits.
"You or me, Gnarsh? Has a week really passed?"
"Seems like a week to me," he says.
Rage looks at Kadlian and Furgh. "We desecrated the altar on the 25th, and then went after the escaping castallian. You died on the 25th. We began the expidation to get you equipment back on the 26th, it is now the 31st. It seems that Gnarsh's colorful description is more accurate. I suggest that we move out back to Sandas tomorrow. We can take the important things now and see what is up for us to do in Sandas. Then, I can always teleport us back here to get things as necessary."
Kadlian hangs his head in frustration. "And if there are captives still down there? My negligence may have killed them, but there still might be some alive. Do we just abandon them?"
Hlarn nods. "I don't know much about captives, but we have a duty to finish the job we began. It shouldn't take more than a day to clean out the rest of this place."
"If Kailar were to cast a wraithform spell on me, I could go pretty rapidly through the rest of the dungeon, and then check the rooms appropiately, or Perhaps Hlarn, Kad and Myself for one final sweep. Specifically looking for captives. Alternatively, Hlarn could cast one of those augary spells and ask his diety if there are additional captives present. That would be a quick check," the mage says, spouting off possibilities.
"Sorry, wraithform only works on the caster."
Kadlian nods. "Hlarn, would you try? It would ease my conscience greatly."
"As far as the girdle goes, I could argue that the one that would get the greatest benefit should use it. But, that would likely be me or Sian, so that is not quite fair. We may have to roll dice..."
Hlarn raises his eyes at the suggestion that only Kadlian and Sian would benefit most from the girdle. "I can still whip both your hides with my eyes half closed."
"And that is why it would benefit Sian or myself more. I am not nearly as strong as you, Hlarn. Plus, both Sian and I wield two weapons at once and while we do not do as much damage with each weapon, we get more swings at our opponents. Imagine how much more damage we would deal, if we had a better chance of making contact. Not to mention the wounds our opponents would receive when we did make contact..."
"That is not to say that is how we should determine who receives this prize..."
Rage looks at Kad and Sasha. "'Sides there is a task waiting a few of us at least, to help Veronica recover an artifact, as return for payment in assisting Kad recently. I am not in a mood to go after thieves."
Kadlian nods. "That is correct, although we need to check with Ray Jay first before performing that service."
Kailar is not done with the paladin, though.
"Interesting, Does your temple recognize the legal rule of the Baron? Or do you consider yourselves above the law?"
"Do you mean any more above the law than the thieves guild thinks it is?"
"So you are willing to sink to their level to stop them? Sounds like a dangerous path to take to me. "
"Votishal and his clerics have been fighting the thieves guild for years in Sandas. Despite the setbacks recently incurred, I plan to continue that fight."
"As to sinking to their level, I'm not sure what you mean. I have no idea why the Baron of Sandas lets them run free in the city."
"I do have to agree with Zanax about not telling anyone, the chance of corruption in the Baron's staff is too great. That is one of the ways a Thieve's guild thrives. They have eyes and ears everywhere."
Hlarn shakes his head. "I'm willing to go after the head of the guild. He has attacked us in the past, and currently holds property belonging to us. But I'll not wage a general war against the guild without permission in Sandas. The guild could all to easily go to the baron and legitimately have the guard go after us for murder."
Zanax nods. "This is especially true if we're going to try and form a base in Sandas. That is, unless we thoroughly crush the thieves guild."
Zanax raises an eyebrow or two. "Hlarn, while you may be the only one in this party that can use the dwarven thrower...assumedly, because it needs a dwarven user...I know that Occa's party has a dwarf, who may also be a fighter. Perhaps we should contact them and see if we can trade for some more useful magic items, rather than you just claiming every magic item that you could possibly use."
Hlarn nods. "I'm not against it since there are two such weapons, but given our history of losing magic, it might be safer to keep the spare. Also I don't think you realize the power of a dwarven thrower. When thrown it does more damage than any sword can do and instantly returns to one's hand. Its powerful enough to strike golems or vampires. Against giants and their kind it does even more damage. And finally its one of the only weapons that can be used in combination with girdles of giant strength and gauntlets of ogre power and allow the full magic of both to be used to attack. Why, I could probably fell a giant in a single blow with such a weapon."
Zanax scoffs. "Not to doubt you knowledge or prowess in battle, but I doubt that if the hammer is that powerful, that we would find two of them at once!"
Hlarn smiles, "About as unlikely that we would have found three frost brands, a holy avenger, several rings of wishes and all the other powerful magics we've found in this castle and temple."
"Hlarn, perhaps you should test the hammers to make sure of their powers."
The dwarf nods. "Good idea." He hefts the hammers and gives each a toss at some object down a hall.
Examining the hammers, he notes dwarf-runes carved into the heads of each. In the first hammer are the words 'RETURN TO ME". In the second are 'THE MIGHTY WOMBAT".
When Hlarn utters the words and throws the hammers, they return to him.
He returns to the argument session...
"Also, do you have gauntlets of ogre power?"
Hlarn shakes his head. "Nay. Such items are rare. We've only seen two girdles of giant strength to date as well. I'm just letting you know the weapons full potential. Should we find some guantlets we would gain great offensive power with me using them, the girdle and the hammer in combination."
Rage looks at Hlarn. "I suggest you let us get everything identified first. There are several rings of invisibility, that I feel would be best suited to the mages, to help us gain more surprise, and free us to carry other spells rather than invisibility. Do not be greedy Hlarn Meg."
Hlarn nods. "Just because I stake a claim doesn't mean I expect to get it. I'm just letting everyone know what I'm interested in."
Zanax asks, "Rage, would we be able to retrieve my frost brand now?"
"What does that mean?"
"Wonder what that does?" Furgh says, then laughs. "No, honest."
On the wand of lightning is the word 'kapow'. On the wand of wonder is nothing.
"Kitty?"
Furgh expresses an interest in the following items.
"If it'll keep the damn vampires away, I'm all for it!"
"I can play reveille in the mornin' on it. Wake all you slug-a-beds up."
"Ya really think its smart?"
"One can never have too much flyin' stuff, donchaknow."
"Hurts pullin' out eyelashes all the time."
"Nifty!"
Agulhas is interested.
Agulhas is interested.
Agulhas is interested.
"Elvenkind."
Agulhas is interested.
"Invisibility."
Agulhas is interested. (Of course)
Furgh comes up with a definitive list...
Zanax (for destruction)}
Zanax mentions, "I'll take this back to the temple for destruction, as several of you have shown reluctance to be anywhere near it when it is destroyed."
Zanax wraps the scimitar up and stows it away.
...
Rage would also like to see the wand of lightning in Argulhas' hands, but if he will not take it, she would like it as well.
Agulhas smiles. "I was eyeing that as well, but I did not want to appear greedy."
Zanax asks, "Rage, what does that Ring of Shooting Stars do? It sounds powerful if it can really shoot stars."
"While it can cast some simple magics, like light spells, it has a powerful ability to cast effectively a mini fireball. I have heard that these are like powerful magic missiles, that burst when they hit the target and cause damage to those nearby. However, this is often limited to a few missiles a week," the mage says, "A good second line of attack when spells are spent."
Zanax contemplates Rage's words. "Sounds fairly powerful. Would I be able to use it? I understand your need for magic after your spells are spent, but you do have wands for that, too."
"I do not know. I do not believe rings are limited by profession," the mage says, "However, it is an item that I believe someone not in the front line would have better use of. 'sides, we mages cannot use those magic swords and armor, so I would hope that you would not consider putting a claim in for it."
"True, but that could be said about a lot of magic items that only mages and clerics can use. Remember, us front liners don't usually carry that many spells or items that have those properties. If I don't get the girdle, I will put in a claim for the ring. Sorry about that, Rage."
"Let me be blunt Zanax. I would very much like that ring. I am willing to teleport you and help retrieve your frost brand. However, I will have to reconsider my position if you are to make a claim on that ring," Rage says as a matter of fact.
Furgh chortles merrily.
Zanax replies in a disappointed voice, "Blackmail isn't very nice, Rage. And as I said, I would only put a claim on the ring is I didn't get the girdle."
Rage looks hurt at the accusation, "Blackmail? Not at all. I am informing you of my position and my price. You want your sword back, I can help you retrieve it. I am only asking that you not put a claim in for the ring. It seems fair to me."
Zanax shakes his head sadly. "Fair? I'd say that you're being petty or greedy. You're the most powerful mage we have...the only one with the ability to teleport. You have a staff which can cast fireballs, a wand that cast lightning, and now you want a ring that can shoot missiles. The only item of the three that a non-mage can use. It's not like you'll be out of firepower once your spells run out"
"Point of order," says Rage, "I said if Argulhas did not want the wand of lightning that I would like it. He has already expressed his desire to wield it. I have no desire for it, therefore, your point is moot."
"But fine, I'll play your game. Kadlian, let us choose now who gets the girdle. If I get the girdle then the point about the ring is moot. Otherwise, I'll stake my claim on the ring. Either way, Hlarn can have my frost brand, if he can afford Rage's price to retrieve it."
Hlarn frowns. "Enough of this! Rage will get the frostbrand without any conditions attached as a service to the group. Last I checked, we were a team, and did not charge each other for services to the group. Any who think otherwise can leave now." He eyes the woman, then looks at Zanax. "If we are to be a group we'll act like one, and not like children fighting over a toy. Got it, both of you?"
Kailar grins at the Soap Opera unfolding and wishes he had some popcorn to enjoy with it.
"I will not be told what I will or will not do, what spells I will or will not cast. If I teleport Zanax out there, it will be a matter between him and I. Not you, or anyone else."
The mage looks at Kadlian. "I have pledged to support you and remain with you." You all notice that the moonstone on the medallion around her waist is glowly lightly. "I will continue to honor that commitment and pledge. "
Kadlian nods. "Thank you."
"That's it?" Rage exclaims sharply, glaring at Kadlian. "That is all you can say?" She continues in disbelief and growing anger.
Kadlian stands his ground. "Would you rather I had given you a flowery speech, Rage? I gave you a sincere 'thank you', from my heart."
"Men!" she spits, throwing up her arms and shaking her head. "Men! Can't live without them ... can't kill them..." She pauses, scratching her head. "Why not ... kill them that is ... they are incredibly useless and denser than lead ... yes ..." she mutters, eyes suddenly bright.
"Sasha, please see to her. I do not want a war going on between us."
"Team? More like just a group of people trying to sack a temple. A team has a unified goal. We can't even decide who we should be fighting!"
"Now, The matter of the ring is for the party to decide should more than one person have a valid claim. We'll abide by party rules in such matters and NOT threats; idle or otherwise. Now, personally I think it best suited for a non-fighter's use. Rage does already have several items of power, so I'd favor Furgh or Kailar having the item myself so it can be used simultaneously with other magics. After all Rage, you can't use several items simultanously, and should you fall its not good for you to be carrying all the firepower."
Rage laughs and throws her hands up. "I will withdraw my request for the ring of shooting stars."
Zanax stands there almost crestfallen, as if someone pulled out the proverbial rug from underneath him. He asks quietly "Rage, just one question: Did you do this because you just don't want to argue or because you think it's best for this party?"
Rage smiles, "That, Zanax, is for you to determine," she replies cryptically.
Zanax considers Rage for a moment. "Well, it is uncharacteristic of you to let things go without a much bigger fight, but hopefully you made a sacrifice for the party's sake. So I, too, will make a sacrifice. You mentioned that you mages would benefit greatly from having another Ring of Invisibility. When we meet again in Sandas, I will give you Damius'. I only ask that I be able to borrow it occassionally to go hunting."
Rage nods. "Agreed." she says, smiling at the Paladin.
"Don't look at me, I don't want it."
"Hlarn, can you please repeat the treasure division rules again? Although, if I had to choose between it being on Furgh's or Kailar's finger, I'd rather Kailar had it."
"I can't use it and Furgh doesn't want it. Maybe we should give it to Findas."
"Can't?" Zanax asks, somewhat perplexed. "I thought everyone could use it."
Rage looks at Zanax. "When you have time, we will go to find your sword." she says.
Zanax nods solemnly.
Furgh holds up his hands. "Woah, hey, as much as we elves like ta fight over toys and all, I don't want it. Blastin' bad guys ain't my forte."
"I say we make 'em arm wrestle for it." he adds brightly. "Ten silver on Rage."
"I'll bet for Rage too," says Gnarsh. "Bet she fights dirty."
Rage smiles lightly, "Thank you for that vote of confidence Furgh." she says softly, smiling at the elf. "I appreciate it."
"Confidence nothin'!" Furgh says, grinning. "I've seen ya angry."
He shudders.
"Even the almighty chosen of Votawhosiwhatsit isn't enough ta stand in front a that unscathed. Easy money."
Kadlian sighs. "I feel like a parent sometimes..."
"Sian do you want to lay claim on the girdle?"
"Damn! Kal? I'm sure you'd to lay claim as well. What about Gnarsh?"
Gnarsh looks up.
"I'll go fer it," he says.
Hlarn looks at Kadlian. "Such a powerful item would benefit any fighter. Lets assume that any that aren't present would wish to claim it, unless of course they were not there when we obtained the item in the first place. Sasha can roll for those not present."
"While Gnarsh certainly is entitled to the girdle, I thought that this was the end of his adventuring with us since he is about to become the Castellan. An object like this stays with the party and is not going to become the possession of the person who is lucky enough to wear it."
Gnarsh shrugs, but does not argue.
Zanax rolls his eyes back ."Not that rule again!"
"How about cards, I'll let Sir play for somebody."
Furgh snickers. "Depends on who ya ask."
"Hey G!" He calls to the half-orc in question. "You all prepped ta be Boss a Borderland Keep?"
Gnarsh nods thoughtfully.
"Gonna be lots o' brawlin' around here. This is the Borderlands. B'sides, I figger if I's the castellan, I'm entitled to free beer."
Furgh looks surprised by the Gnarsh's answer.
"To make matters easier, we will assume that all fighters will want it."
"Guy what had it..." Furgh adds. "He's the one that lit me up like a midsummer's celebration. Somethin' like that Faerie Fire spell Kal was tossin' about..."
He scowls, then adds with a grimace, "But lasted forever!"
"Would that be from that ring, too? Either that or he was a spellcaster a some sort... or one a those other things a his did it." He shrugs.
You continue to identify things in the meantime.
Hlarn can do better than that, and get absolutely correct answers. He lights the candle.
"Oh Mighty Silverbeard, commune with your faithful servant and enlighten us!
Are there captives yet to be freed in these dungeons?
"NO."
Is there treasure yet to be found in these dungeons?
"YES."
Is there useful magic yet to be found in these dungeons?
"NO."
If we leave this place before finishing our explorations will the local populace be in increased danger?
"NO."
Does the vampire sorcerer still survive in these dungeons?
"NO."
Is the High Priestess Tibia dead?
"YES."
Is Gnarsh the son of Teresa?
"YES."
Is the wand that augures poorly truly harmful to us?
"NO."
Is there a way to dispell the antimagical effect that ruined my magical items?
"NO."
Kadlian looks quite relieved. "Thank you, Hlarn. Okay, folks, back your bags because we are heading back towards Sandas."
The dwarf quickly blows out the candle not wanting to waste any of the precious magic. "That pretty much settles it. Not worth our time here if only a couple of coins remain to be had."
Hlarn turns to Sasha and Rage. "Perhaps you two would be willing to go into town and buy us a couple of new wagons and good horses to pull them. We've got quite a bit of stuff here, and I doubt we'll be coming back anytime soon."
Hlarn nods and heads outside to where we hid his own wagon a while back to get it ready and will begin loading up everything of value.
"We can send Zanax and Furgh along as well. As long as you two promise not to fight along the way and back."
"Kadlian, may I borrow the girdle you're wearing? It'll help make things go much faster."
"For now, you can wear it."
Kadlian takes it off and hands it to Zanax. "Do not get too attached."
He grins.
Hlarn nods. "Thats right." he says, winking at the paladin. "I don't wan't you getting my belt too dirty."
Regardless, Zanax heads out with Hlarn to help get the wagon ready and loaded.
"How 'bout I argue the way there, and Zanax gets the way back?" Furgh asks, hopefully, with a chuckle.
He then shrugs slightly. "I won't be goin' back ta Sandas with ya." he says. "A poor elf's tasks are never done, t'would seem. Got some things ta finish with Findas first."
"What do you have to do with the dragon? And does this mean you will never come to Sandas or that you will be delayed?"
Furgh smiles brightly.
"I'm teachin' him ta do magic!" he says proudly.
Kadlian scratches his head. "He does not know magic already? Hmm..."
"Nope." Furgh says. "But soon, he'll be fully intigrated with the latest and greatest of elven prestidigitations!" He waggles his fingers.
"And of course, we're takin' special aims ta teach him the flair, as well as the rote." He grins brightly.
"Dunno how long its gonna take. Never done this sorta thing before. Been workin' with him for a week now." He shrugs, obviously not caring how long it takes, as long as he gets to do it.
Agulhas sidles up next to the flamboyant elf. "Gee, Furgh, you sure seem to have taken quite a shine to that dragon." He grins.
"But it's a dragon" He says, as if that answers all questions in an obvious way.
Agulhas nods in understanding.
"You teaching him magic must be a fantastical sight indeed! I would like to see this for myself sometime!"
Furgh chuckles. "Well, can't say I'm the best a teachers. Ol' Andre always said I'd regret not payin' him more head durin' the lessons. He was most likely right. Hell, I'm probably learnin' as much as Findas is."
He grins.
"Was hopin' ta snag Kailar for a few days, when it comes time ta talk about illusions, he has a far better grasp a such things then me."
"I'd be happy to help."
Hlarn nods. "Dragons have much better senses that us humanoids. They can see right through most illusions up close. Its impossible to sneak up on one invisibly for instance."
"I wouldn't say impossible. Just extremely unlikely."
He smiles at Agulhas. "I'm sure you could substitute for a few days too, if ya wanna. Maybe for the invocation stuff.... Ya might have noticed my trainin' a bit lax in that area."
The dwarf grows serious. "Just whatever you do, don't give Findus any ideas about clerical magics. Should he become a cleric of his breed I'd be forced to subdue or kill him then. I have no love for either of the dragon gods."
Furgh scowls slightly, then almost grins. "Oh, I'll be sure ta let him know how ya feel about it."
Hlarn gives the elf a serious look. "I'm trying to do my best not to succumb to my natural intentions and kill that beast. But if you intentionally make him an enemy of mine I'll have no choice. I'm serious here Furgh. This isn't some game."
Furgh looks back, just as serious. "For someone who's got himself killed, by every dragon he seems ta come across, ya talk awful big, Hlarn."
Hlarn smiles in recollection. "There you are mistaken. I was slain only once, by the first blue dragon we saw. And even then Drandar and I still managed to kill it as it released its last breath. Remember Furgh, Findus is a young dragon... much less powerful than any we've seen thus far, and I am much stronger than I was then."
Furgh just sort of shakes his head. "You were just so much dust on the floor, before ya even got yer axe offa yer belt. If there was another before Gi, that just makes you Oh for Two. Wasn't so long ago."
Hlarn shakes his head again. "You are thinking of Drandar I believe. He died the last time we killed a dragon. The black one."
"No, it was Gi." Furgh says. "I was there. You were dead. Ain't never seen a black dragon."
"You so much as look at this one funny, and I'll personally help him turn ya into a pile a slag. You will have gone far over any line that might indicate yer a worthwhile person ta have around."
Hlarn nods. "I'm simply being honest with you Furgh. As I said, I do not wish to subdue or slay this beast. As things currently stand, I see no reason to do so."
"Go ahead and teach him magic... but I am serious when I say breath not a word about clerical studies. The Dragon Gods are my enemy, as much as the Raven Goddess and the Gods of Trouble are. Its an ancient quarrel... but one stained deep with the blood of many."
"And Findus does not need to know how I feel. I too go and see the dragon on occassion to ask him questions, and should he think me an enemy and attack me on sight, I would be forced to retaliate, and would feel no compunction in doing so."
"I'll tell him the truth." Furgh says. "Since its his life yer tossin' threats and ultimatums at."
Hlarn shakes his head. "As I said, he's quite safe from me. I warned YOU not to go and give him ideas that would change that status."
"Oh, I'm quite aware he's safe from you." Furgh says, smirking. "Yer no match for a dragon, despite your assumed bravado. I ain't givin' anyone ideas. I'm just givin' him the facts, so he can judge you on his own."
"You might wanna find another dragon ta dupe inta thinkin' yer a friend."
Furgh offers with a scowl.
"I don't think of him as a friend and I doubt he thinks of me as one. But he's not an enemy either. If he attacks me because of something you've told him, its on your shoulders what happens next."
Furgh laughs bitterly. "The world don't revolve around yer prejudices, Hlarn."
"Why is it Furgh you seem to just relish alienating this party? You threaten to tell the thieves guild that Zanax is interested in them. And now you purposely want to develop a hatred for me in something I'm just as willing to leave alone?"
Sasha looks up suddenly from her long mediatations, her eyes sad.
"This has been a most illuminating conversation between the two of you," she says quietly, her eyes troubled and somehow different than before.
She turns to Hlarn. "You are from another world I believe? And from that world stems your hatred of the dragon gods?" she asks, somewhat rhetorically.
"And yet, you are here on earth, living among others who have nothing to do with your world, your hates, your family. A clean slate as it were. Now, I suppose one can make assumptions from one world to the next, apply the same thoughts and feelings, hates and loves. You can carry your own set of hates and loves to every world, seeing and living through the same set of eyes and thoughts on each one. What then would you learn, Oh Mighty Hlarn Meg, heir to a throne on your world, if you could survive long enough to claim it. A great way to become leader ... " she finishes with a tough of irony in her voice.
"The world will go as it will, not as we wish it. I believe that is a very common saying. We each have our destiny, our path and it is up to each of us to pursue our path. Much of that involves learning, seeking our roots, understanding our nature, as well as understanding the nature of others so that we may learn and work to always better ourselves and understand this world the gods gave us. Findus has found a friend on his path that will shed some understanding on his past, and the past of his kind. Not many are that lucky. You, Hlarn, have no right to interfere in his quest for knowledge, nor do you have a right to prevent that by suggestion or threat. You do, however, have the right to attack or attempt to slay Findus for whatever reasons you can muster. But know this, you will do it alone."
Sasha pauses, again, a sad inscrutiable look in her eyes.
"I understand hate, and what drives it. I have learned much from your end of the conversation. And I believe that it was a good choice to send you off-world to learn and train ... though I would say that whomever is in charge of you on your world would be very disappointed that you have as yet learned nothing to aid you in your possible future role as ruler of your world."
Rage nods, pointing to Sasha. "Yeah ... what she said."
The mage turns to Hlarn, "I have forgotten your words, but something to the effect of if you are causing party strife, leave or deal with it. Your inane attitude is annoying in this case. To demand and threaten Furgh about what information he may or may not tell his pupil and then blaming him for -your- actions if said occurance happens... well, you are even a smaller dwarf that I thought, Hlarn Meg."
Zanax sighs, "And just when I thought we were making progress as a party..."
Rage smiles. "We are making progress, you and I have come to an agreement, and that is good. It is interesting to see how Hlarn reacts when the shoe is on the other foot." The mage stands, "Enough of this. Zanax is right. Let us move forward."
Kadlian raises his left eyebrow. "Does this mean I am forgiven?"
"Not a chance, elf-boy," replies the smiling mage.
"I got to get the hang of sounding sincere. Evidently, I am not very convincing."
"That is an understatement," Rage replies, "I suggest lessons from Furgh."
"I was not looking for lessons on melodrama, Rage, just sincerity. I think Kailar or Sian would be better teachers."
Rage just smiles, "As you say."
"If you was willin' ta leave it alone, you would not have had need ta start tossin' the threats in the first place," Furgh says angrily. "I have done nothing. I did not threaten anyone, at any time. Just 'cause ya wanna interprate things in whatever way makes you smell better, don't mean there's roses anywhere near ya.
"Yer entire attitude stinks so bad, it makes me feel nausious just listenin' to ya."
Hlarn points his finger at the elf. "My family has a long history of resentment toward the dragon gods, and I am as much a part of that legacy as any of my clan. Now good dragons I'm willing to leave be and not harm... but only so long as they leave me alone also. If you tell this one stories about me that sours that relationship, or purposely prod him to do something that will force my hand and you are signing his death warrant."
"If yer worried tellin' him truths will make him think less a ya, then its probably 'cause there's less a ya ta think of. But I sure as hell ain't gonna lie ta him so you can keep pretendin' ta be someone he should be trustin'... until ya feel like tryin' ta stick yer sword between his rib cage."
"The only one what can force anythin', is you. And if you wanna die, yet one more time..." He spreads his hands and shrugs.
"If you can't trust him, then stay the hell away from him. Then everyone's happy."
"I made one simple request to you... to please not encourage any clerical calling in the fellow. And you now want nothing more than to tell him things he doesn't need to know just to spite me."
"You made no simple requests," Furgh says. "You made demands and threats, with no cause or justification. You deserve nothin' but spite for that."
"Yeah," Zanax adds, "If I'm not allowed to kill Furgh, there's no way I'm going to let you kill a good dragon!"
"Nor I," adds the mage, softly.
"Didn't know everyone wanted my pretty red head so badly," Furgh offers, suddenly cheerful. "Must be the new do."
"Not your head, Furgh, but rather not Findas head on Hlarn's Wall. Teach the Dragon what he asks and if you need an assist on the magic, let me know. I'll try to help as well," the mage says, smiling.
"What's wrong with my head?" Furgh pouts. "Its the darn haircut, isn't it? Last time I let a dwarf cut it."
He gives Hlarn another glare for this old injustice.
Zanax offers helpfully, "If you like, I'd be happy to mount your head on Hlarn's wall. I'll even throw in a new haircut."
"Oh no ya don't," Furgh says. "You ain't gettin' anywhere near this elf's noggin' 'til I see yer groomin' license.
"I... I... had this bad experience once!" He moans.
Zanax pats the holy avenger "Come on, it's sharp! You won't feel a thing, I promise."
"Ya know," the magician raises his hairless, pierced brow, "that's the best offer I have heard to date. Count me in!"
He frowns slightly, then shrugs. "'Course, with everyone headin' out..."
Agulhas' expression drops. "Yeah, there is that..." He sighs. "We'll have to see how that pans out."
"Well, if we leave Sandas for a new job, we will leave word with Ray Jay. Guess you will just have to track us down."
Furgh frowns slightly. "Uh... can't ya sorta just get His Holiness ta do the brain thing?"
He sends a glare at Zanax and adds, "Though during the day."
You get the impression he doesn't want to deal with the archmage, if he doesn't have to.
"Well, if Zanax can reach that far, we will do that."
Zanax ignores Furgh. "Kadlian, that reminds me, I won't be going directly to Sandas and I'll need my share of the loot with me. Although, if you're travelling with the wagon, I'll probably beat you back to Sandas."
"Where will you be going?"
"To visit my temple and to do an errand or two."
Kadlian nods. "Okay, but please do not take too long."
"As I said, I'll probably beat you to Sandas and I can always contact you when I need to. Plus, after you talk with Ray Jay, who knows, our ways may part."
Kadlian nods. "I am aware of that possibility, but I believe that everyone should be present to make that decision. Making it in your absence hardly seems fair."
"Also, I'd also like to trade in my armor for the ones that Agulhas identified as being better than full plate and shield."
"If no one else puts in a claim, I have no objection."
The silent Sasha chimes up. "I too think that I would like to upgrade my armor. I am not sure which are best however, and perhaps after Zanax chooses, I can get a better set. I forget how powerful this suit is, but it seems we have some lovely armors now. It would have to go with my boots, as well."
"I believe that my armor is just slightly less powerful than the one that I want. That is, if the identifcations are to be believed."
"Additionally, I could check with my temple and see if they would be willing to trade some magic items."
"Sure, if they have any more items that increase strength or more rings of invisibility, I would be quite happy to trade."
"That Occa fellow said he had a ring of invisibility he was willin' ta trade. Bein' a wand collector, maybe you could intice him with some a the ones here."
"Doubtful they have those, but perhaps they have items of healing that we could use. Also, I noticed a potion in the treasury for fighters. Perhaps one of you fighter types should carry it around. It's probably invulnerability or heroism."
"A rod of ressurection would be useful and perhaps some wands for the mages."
Zanax snorts. "Don't hold your breath, Kadlian."
Hlarn almost chokes when he hears Kadlian mention the rod. "Oh yes... I can see them parting with that. And throw in a ring or two of wishes why you are at it."
Kadlian grins. "Just telling you what I think this party would find useful."
The dwarf looks at Kadlian and Kailar. "You two best decide how much coin you want to give the dragon. I'm not toting all this backthis way again."
"Might as well give him all the copper as well as some of the more valuable coins. Seems senseless to drag all that coin to Sandas. We need to get totals on the money before we can decide how much to give Findus."
"We could let him have some of the extra magical weapons or armor or stuff," Furgh offers. "Doubt we're gonna be usin' half of this stuff."
Hlarn shakes his head. "Better to sell them to Ray Jay. We get more money that way."
Kadlian nods. "We might do that. We will probably want to be a bit careful on our selections. As Zanax pointed out earlier, we may be able to trade some of this stuff with Occa's group for things that will help us. In addition, some of this stuff can be sold for a pretty gold piece in Sandas."
"Not to mention, Occa still has my bracers."
"Furgh, if you wish to make some recommendations, I will take them under advisement."
Furgh chuckles.
"Yer askin' the wrong person," he says brightly. "I'd give it all to him."
"But, in the end, I don't think it much matters what it is, just that he has it."
"That whole dragon and their hoard thing, donchaknow," he adds, wisely.
Kadlian shrugs his shoulders. "Okay, I will pick a few things out for him, then."
"How 'bout the throwin' axe, that suite a ring mail Gnarsh and I dragged up, and maybe a potion or two?" Furgh offers. "Maybe the poisoned one? I'm sure no one is gonna be usin' that, or sellin' it ta someone who will."
As far as treasure, Sian would like to put in a claim on the gloves and the talisman and of course the girdle.
When people head outside, they find the forest a shambles from the hurricane. There is no way that you would be able to bring a wagon up to the Black Keep through the woods.
Finally, you purchase one and head over to the former Caves of Chaos, where your horses are, and you begin moving items from the dungeon onto the wagon there. It takes you all the rest of the day.