The Westgate Campaign Chronicles - serial

[Carlo-One]

It took the party the better part of an hour to ferry everyone over to the other side of the large stream in the Hidden Peak area, hauling the rowboat back and forth with their improvised rope pulley. However, the practice they had with the original crossing meant there were no incidents this time. Once that was completed, Dermot checked for signs of recent travel and found Helrud's tracks. The ranger said they were likely on the route back to the Clanhome, which is where everyone had assumed the dwarf scout was going. Darrow stated his preference for returning there as well, as otherwise it might look like they were trying to make off with the hoard themselves. Both Shanni and Rahnee admitted an interest in possessing gold enough to set themselves up for life, to which Darrow pointed out that if the clan were brought in, the adventurers wouldn't have to haul it all out of the cavern themselves.

As the group retraced their steps along hidden mountain pass back to the main Giant's Peak area, they passed by the large crystal whose rays had served to point out the secret way to Helrud. Aerikoth paused briefly to study it and Dermot noticed that a message with some hastily-scrawled runes had been left at its base. Darrow confirmed that the runes were dwarven and said “See you at the Clanhome.” Shanni wondered why he had bothered to stop to write the note, but not long enough to wait for them. Dermot suggested that the dwarf scout was excited and not thinking clearly, a notion shared by Darrow.

The five adventurers, after another hour, reached the edge of the plateau above the cave next to the ridgeline path. Dermot, who by this point had a great deal of recent practice, let down a rope and then stepped back to let Darrow be first down it. The dwarf, apparently eager to keep moving, used his strength to lower himself down without incident. Shanni was next, but her grip slipped several feet from the bottom and she fell hard onto her backside. After she had gotten up and out of the way, Aerikoth tossed his staff down and then essayed the rope. The small wizard lacked strength, but managed to control his descent and stay on his feet, if awkwardly.

Shanni, still rubbing her backside, announced she had to go do something biological and moved away from the others. Rahnee followed with her climbing attempt and made it look easy, landing lightly on her feet. Dermot gathered up the rope and then clambered down the cliffside, scrambling down the last few feet and landing in a heap, although not suffering any damage in the process.

As Shanni returned, apologizing for the delay, the others were discussing what they expected would happen to the gold from the hoard. Both Rahnee and Darrow expressed a desire to see a portion of it go toward rebuilding “Veranbrok” – what they called the land of the former Hallton barony. Dermot pointed out that the Ironhelm clan had the guards, the carts and the manpower to haul the gold away, so the adventurers would be at their mercy. Shanni expressed her lack of trust in the fairness of any clan procedure, given their last experience there. Aerikoth stated that he trusted the dwarves to do whatever they deemed best for their clan. All were curious as to what would happen when they reached the Ironhelm citadel.

 

[Carlo-One]

At the outer entry gates, the dwarven defender guards saluted and recognized them as “the friends of Helrud” – apparently the dwarf scout had come through two hours earlier and his news about the dragon hoard had spread quickly, causing an uproar. At the inner gates, the party interrupted the guards talking about how much gold could be in the hoard. Darrow was recognized as the bearer of Haelgrim and his return was acknowledged with thanks. Darrow gave a polite bow in return, then saluted the guards as he and his companions entered the Ironhelm citadel, with Aerikoth and Shanni deep in discussion regarding their previous treatment by the clan.

As usual, Clan Greeter Rumnaher was on hand in the entry chamber to welcome them. Following a cheery greeting, he informed them that their return had been anticipated, after Helrud’s news about their find. Rumnaher said that the dwarf scout was barely coherent at first, but eventually got across that they had found a dragon hoard on clan territory. Darrow acknowledged this, mentioning that there was more gold than they could cart off, which Rumnaher exclaimed was great news for the clan. Dermot disingenuously professed not to know where the clan’s borders were, but he provisionally accepted what Helrud said. Rumnaher explained that things were still a little confused at the moment, but he expected the Prince would wish to call an audience about the matter.

The Clan Greeter mentioned their guest quarters were still available and invited them to have a drink or three at the tavern. At Rahnee’s suggestion, however, as soon as they had entered the citadel proper, Darrow led the others towards the temple to speak with High Priest Iskar. Everyone they passed in the halls seemed to be talking about gold and the finding of the dragon hoard. They encountered Iskar at the temple and confirmed to him that there was in fact a dragon hoard found, minus the dragon. Darrow pulled out a red metallic dragonscale to show the priest and told him that there was enough gold to swim in. Iskar, shaking his head at the novelty of the situation, asked them for the true tale, given the confusion and wild rumors circulating within the clan. (As a priest and clan elder, no doubt Iskar over the decades - centuries? - has at times heard very different versions of the same events from his charges. Even with divine magic it can be difficult to sort the facts, since people may truly believe different things, especially whenever personal credit or blame is involved. --R)

Darrow took the lead in explaining what they had discovered – the ruins, the caverns below, what they interpreted as signs of a red and a white dragon fighting and dying, and the grey rock-like creatures they had fought. Somewhat reluctantly in Dermot and Shanni’s case, the party acknowledged Helrud’s role in finding the place. Iskar remarked that the old Clan stories of the red dragon Edallisufanxar, “The Burning Blaze”, had mentioned nothing about its death - just that it had disappeared one day, never to return. Shanni and Dermot made reference to the presence of a “bloody great skeleton” with red dragon scales around it, a sign that it was in fact dead, also pointing out that the clan had not known how to reach the location to confirm its death.

After Iskar asked if anything but the rock-like creatures had been encountered, Darrow and Aerikoth explained about the iron golem - now cut to pieces by Haelgrim - eliciting a gasp of wonder from the dwarf priest. Dermot also mentioned the “ice walker” that he said had guarded the white dragon’s bones. Iskar then inquired about other items found, as Helrud had shown off a pair of boots from the hoard. Darrow said that he had picked up a pair of boots himself and the others had acquired a few swords and such. Rahnee said that the hoard had been surprisingly light in magic items, armor, gems and other items she had heard were collected by dragons, although she speculated that this one may simply have preferred gold. (I confess that I cannot make up my mind whether Rahnee was intentionally lowballing the dwarven clan about the valuable magic items they found - which would be consistent with my own past experiences in similar sorts of dealings - or if whatever tales of dragon hoards she read as a girl actually did lead to greater expectations. --R)

The high priest stated that their story complemented Helrud’s, which he was glad to hear. He explained that his joy at the find was tempered by what it could lead to for those who held Abbathor dear in their heart, referring to the dwarven god of greed and wealth. After making that observation, Iskar excused himself, saying that he had to go to the Council; he asked the adventurers to remain as the clan’s guests, until a proper audience could be called for them. As he departed the temple, the high priest clapped Darrow on the shoulder, telling him it was well done, bearing Haelgrim in a great victory for the clan.

(As my predecessor "R" alluded to above, the dwarven high priest showed great wisdom in asking insightful questions and listening first to everyone's version of events, rather than accepting Helrud's - or the adventurers' - words simply at face value. For example, both Dermot and Shanni's perspectives seemed colored by their recent less-than-friendly treatment at the hands of Toran Goldfinder, which is not surprising. It is also human nature to see what you do as important, and what role others play as less so, when there is a great success at hand - especially when its benefits have yet to be reaped. Furthermore, the ugliness of greed can obscure even a noble heart at times. What shall be the outcome here, I wonder? --C)

 

[Carlo-One]

Darrow’s first words, as Iskar left the temple, were that they were rich and in a dwarven clan home, so the only thing to do was to go drink. Rahnee in response reminded him – partly teasing, partly not – that they were not rich yet. Dermot suggested that the dwarf adopt a title or epithet as part of his name, to commemorate finding the hoard, but said “Darrow Goldfinder” might not be appropriate – cleverly alluding to their erstwhile enemy Toran Goldfinder. Darrow countered by saying he’d as like be called "Darrow Hardbottom" after the way he fell down the entry shaft, eliciting a laugh from the ranger.

With all the recent stresses of travel finally released, Shanni began mumbling to herself about the unreality of the situation, whether they had actually been to a dragon hoard and back. Dermot cheerily pointed out that their souvenirs didn’t lie. Aerikoth, apparently less interested in comradely banter, announced he would retreat to the clan library, to see if there was anything he could discover further about the disappearance of the red dragon Edallusifanxar. Dermot was curious about the fact that the clan might have forgotten about a part of their history, wishing the wizard luck with his reading. Rahnee too thought the research would be a good idea for “Aeri” - the wizard frowned at her use again of the diminutive, but he refrained from speaking as he departed.

The others made their way back to the guest quarters, eager to stow their gear and wash up. The dwarven defender on duty in the corridor spotted Dermot carrying his weapon unsheathed and a jocular exchange ensued about the ranger’s stiff, naked sword, which continued until Rahnee and Shanni gratefully shut the door to their room, intent on washing up after their journey. Dermot entered his quarters and spent some time carefully arranging his gear, while Darrow dropped his on the ground and immediately headed for the clan tavern. A short while later, after the dwarf had wandered back to the guest quarters and then again to the tavern, Dermot, Rahnee and Shanni joined him there for food and ale, surrounded by a crowd of merry drunk dwarves.

 

[Carlo-One]

As of the early evening of Ches 15, the party had separated and been off at various pursuits in the dwarven citadel. Rahnee had been loaned some work space by Lorn near his smithy, so she could work on repairing and maintaining her equipment. Darrow stopped by there as well, to drop off some dragonscales and see what the smith could make with them. Dermot simply relaxed in his room, while Shanni spent some time washing her journeying clothes and unsuccessfully trying to make one of Rahnee’s extra dresses fit her more petite frame.

As dinnertime came around, Darrow, Aerikoth, Dermot and Shanni eventually ended up together in the tavern area. The latter two, arriving as the dwarf and the wizard were deep in conversation, indicated they had something important to share in private. Dermot had a serious expression on his face, while Shanni sported a bright and eager smile on hers. Aerikoth said he had finished eating and would join them; Darrow drank the remaining ale from his mug as they all walked back to the guest quarters.

Once behind closed doors, Shanni happily announced that they were going to be rich. Dermot, rubbing his temples, mentioned there were other things to discuss as well. Darrow’s brother Andin, the temple acolyte, had stopped by earlier to inform Dermot and Shanni there would be a Council meeting in less than an hour. There, the two of them would be named dwarf-friends and the matter of the ownership of the hoard would be decided. As Dermot explained it, there were two ideas being offered: the adventurers could keep the items they had taken from the hoard and would be entitled to a one-fifth share of the gold; or, they could give the items back and get fifty percent of the hoard.

Dermot then said that, according to Andin, Toran Goldfinder was pushing for the half split, which the ranger and Shanni both found suspicious. Darrow took that to mean Toran wanted the items, something which Shanni had thought as well, and the dwarf wondered what he was going to do with them. Dermot concluded by mentioning that Andin had muttered about something being up with the Prince, but he didn’t know what. Darrow frowned at this, thinking that the Prince, who had been recovering slowly from a mysterious illness, might have taken a turn for the worse.

Talk then turned to the magical items that had been taken from the hoard. Shanni, with some difficulty and care, pulled out the heavily enchanted and extremely sharp short sword, saying it slipped through her fingers when she tried to hold it properly; Aerikoth called it one of the most powerful items he had ever observed. The others, with some effort, recalled the rest of the list of weapons and miscellaneous items. They all agreed that the short sword in Shanni’s possession was the most valuable and unique item, therefore likely what Toran was after. Darrow brought up earlier suspicions that Toran was trying to reopen trade with the Underdark, saying that the sword might be just the morsel for his Underdark friends to help with getting him into power.

Aerikoth then queried how the Council had reached its decision about the proposed disposition of the hoard. The wizard expressed his discontent with the one-fifth share of the gold offered if they kept the items, considering that a sum of one-third would be fairer. Aerikoth viewed the offer as greedy on the part of the dwarves, who as he put it should consider the party generous for allowing the clan to dictate what should be done with what they found. Darrow shrugged and said that the hoard was in clan territory, so unfortunately they had to follow clan law. The dwarf also said that they didn’t have a spare two tendays to be hauling out all the gold, something which Shanni mentioned would also be noticed.

The wizard continued to denigrate the clan’s claim on the hoard, questioning the extent of its actual territory and noting that they had not tried to claim anything taken from the Deep Delve. Shanni agreed with Aerikoth’s logic, but more practically thought, as did Dermot, that they did not have much of a choice. Besides, as the petite rogue asserted, her share of the twenty percent of the hoard would be as much gold as she would ever see in her life, so she didn’t care. Darrow said he wasn’t a lawyer and that Aerikoth was welcome to make the argument to the Council. The wizard appeared to draw a line under the discussion by stating that he was not overly interested in such things, he just found it slightly annoying that the Ironhelm dwarves were dictating what should be done with something they all had liberated, with some assistance from one of their members.

(It is difficult to put a line under greed. Paradoxically, the more gold that is available for the taking, the more envious and contentious is its division. This is something I used to consider normal, even acceptable, before I turned my life's page and entered into Kelemvor's service. Death does not care how much gold you have, in the end. --R)

After some further talk, all were agreed that they should keep the items – in part, because it was the opposite of what Toran Goldfinder wanted – and opt for a fifth share of the gold. Shanni’s last remaining question was what to wear to the Council meeting: the ill-fitting dress that she could not run in, or her damp traveling clothes that she had just washed.

 

[Carlo-One]

The companions each prepared for the upcoming clan council meeting, gathering again in Rahnee and Shanni’s room. Rahnee, after doing some maintenance on her armor, had returned and changed into a formal gown. Shanni in contrast looked glum in her damp, travel-worn clothes. Dermot and Aerikoth were also in their adventuring clothes, but were more stoic about it. Meanwhile, Darrow’s sole contribution to getting ready for the council meeting was brushing the breadcrumbs out of his beard.

Just as Darrow was wondering if they were supposed to head to the council hall or continue waiting, there was a knock at the door. An excited-looking female dwarf commoner informed Darrow, after he opened the door, that she had a message from the Council: they asked that Darrow and his friends come to the audience chamber in five minutes. Darrow kindly thanked her for delivering the message and bowed, eliciting some giggles and an attempted curtsey in response as the messenger hurried away.

With some anticipation, the group made their way to the audience chamber. As they entered and approached the throne, one of the dwarf nobles gave them an unfriendly glare as he exited behind them, which was immediately matched by a deliberately rude one from Darrow. Once the five adventurers had assembled in front of Prince Dalgan, he motioned for the group to approach.

The Prince formally welcomed them, on behalf of the assembled Ironhelm Clan advisors and nobles. Dalgan also noted the presence of Clan Greeter Rumnaher, who had been invited to attend because of his knowledge of outlander ways. As this was taking place, Darrow smiled and joked with Toran Goldfinder, standing to the right of the Prince, about Shanni and Dermot’s presence there again; Toran in response just gritted his teeth.

Pleasantries being finished, Dalgan indicated that the clan council had debated many things since the company’s return, and now wished their participation. Darrow nodded politely at this and Dermot expressed that it was very humbling, while Shanni muttered something to herself. The Prince began by mentioning the dragon hoard and their collective surprise at it being found on clan territory. He then changed tack, however, and said he first wanted to put to rest the matter of the accusations of theft of clan treasure. Dalgan said it was evident to him that none who would wish the Clan harm would have returned with such a prize as the hoard must be. Shanni ceased mumbling and her eyes brightened at this.

The Prince continued, citing certain inquiries also having been made – at which High Priest Iskar gave a satisfied look – all of which lead him to not only absolve them of any suspicion, but to declare also that Dermot and Shanni should henceforward be known as dwarf-friends to Clan Ironhelm. A visible tic crossed Toran Goldfinder’s face at the announcement, while Dermot folded a fist to his chest and bowed to the Prince as several cheers erupted from the nobles. Dermot declared that new friends are a blessing, nudging Shanni with an elbow as she was opening her mouth to speak, only managing a “Charmed, I’m...” before reverting to muttering. Darrow and Rahnee, smiling broadly, expressed their thanks and appreciation.

Dalgan then called for the tale of the finding of the hoard to be presented to the full Council, who was eager to hear it. Rahnee responded by turning to Darrow and saying he was fast becoming their bard. Darrow looked over his shoulder to see who she was talking about, then joked that their bard had been a wispy little oaf of an elf. Nonetheless, the dwarf sighed resignedly as he began telling the story, while Shanni looked on with a smug expression.

 

[Carlo-One]

Darrow, by now practiced if not completely bardic in his tale-telling, related how they had been delayed in meeting Helrud the day of their last, much less fortunate meeting in the audience chamber. Thanks to Dermot, however, they were able to follow his tracks to a ruin in the middle of the mountains, with a large dragon statue and skeleton outside them. Their initial entrance into the cavern complex was via what he called a cistern; the dwarf related how they came across skeletons locked in cages in the first room.

The rest of their explorations were also highlighted, including the discovery of some Underdark-made crates; some kind of rock beasts that lived there; a ladder that led back up to the surface, which was opened after some work; the opening of the portcullis to the lower level; and the discovery of what he said was the first lair, guarded by ice elementals with a big old skeleton of a dragon with white scales all about it. However, they found no hoard there, as if it had been cleaned out, so kept looking. Darrow related how they ultimately had descended via handholds in the central pit to the lowest level, discovering its entire floor was filled with gold. They then met a Draconic-speaking magic mouth and defeated the iron golem guardian of the chamber with the magical items. Helrud beat feet back to the Ironhelm citadel to inform the clan, while the rest of the party was a little less quick, as Darrow put it.

Prince Dalgan appreciatively called it a fulsome and heroic tale, noting that it fit with what Helrud related, turning to High Priest Iskar to receive confirmation. Iskar also mentioned that Helrud remained under his care, having foolishly waded a rather large and chill mountain stream in his excitement to return with the news. As a result his beard was frozen, as the priest said, apparently figuratively speaking. Rahnee expressed her gratitude that the dwarf scout was recovering.

Calling what they had done a noble deed, Prince Dalgan declared the council had determined that, as the discoverers of this hoard, the adventurers should have a fair share of the clan wealth. This prompted a short statement of thanks from Dermot and some inaudible muttering from Shanni. Continuing, Dalgan said that they wished to offer the party a choice. Firstly, they could place any items retrieved from the hoard into the clan vault, then receive in turn the full sum of one-half of the hoard's value in gold, once in the clan’s possession. Dermot made a great show of being surprised at this offer, while Toran Goldfinder interjected that it would be a princely sum indeed, and a very generous one, looking displeased. (Although no proof so far has been offered in these chronicles of Toran's presumed evil nature, the fact that he constantly seeks to deceive those around him is a sure sign that he lacks the integrity a clan council member should possess. I wonder if the suspicions of an Underdark connection are indeed the truth behind his actions; it would certainly explain much. --C)

Prince Dalgan then stated that secondly, they could keep the non-dwarven items they had found and receive a fifth share of the hoard's gold, after it had been retrieved. He indicated that they could take as long as desired to decide the matter. Shanni, somewhat impolitely, asked what they were calling “non-dwarven” as Dermot looked at the others, hemming and saying it was a big decision. Koll Wallbasher, the clan’s military leader, clarified that the Prince meant that any items of clan making should be returned to the clan. This prompted Shanni to ask how they would know. Rahnee interjected, saying that she did not believe they had found anything of dwarven make. Koll explained that any such items would have the Clan mark on them. Shanni then declared they had nothing with a clan mark on it, which was backed up by Darrow. (Shanni's questions are valid, yet at the same time she displays the attitude of someone interrogating a fishmonger at the market, rather than of a guest of dwarven royalty. --R)

Aerikoth, in a more polite and respectful tone, mentioned that he had an inquiry in regards to the choice. Dalgan acknowledged the wizard and gave him leave to speak. Aerikoth brought up the fact that Helrud had claimed at least one item for himself and asked how that would affect the party. The Prince turned to Iskar, who confirmed that the dwarf scout had some oversize boots on him when he arrived, appearing to be magical. The dwarven high priest said he saw no reason why he should not keep them, as just due for his services. Dalgan asked the company if they were content with this and after a short discussion all concurred.

The Prince, having answered all outstanding questions, queried if they wished to make a decision at that moment regarding their desired reward, or sleep on the matter. Darrow, without hesitation, answered that they would like to keep the items they found and claim a fifth of the treasure. Although Dermot looked at him as if surprised, Darrow apparently missed the import of the ranger’s glance and said they had anticipated a choice like this. (It is sometimes difficult to tell from these chronicles if the dwarf is being deliberately obtuse regarding a particular matter, or if he truly is ignorant of the subtleties involved. In any case, Dermot's acting abilities seem to have been wasted. --R) Toran Goldfinder gritted his teeth yet again at Darrow’s words. The others confirmed the decision, with Shanni openly grinning at Toran as Prince Dalgan declared the matter done.

 

[Carlo-One]

With the division of the hoard resolved, Koll Wallbasher stepped forward and stated that he would be in charge of the recovery expedition. He said that once Helrud thawed out, the dwarf scout should be able to guide them to the site. Koll was interested, however, in whatever dangers might remain there. Shanni and Darrow both mentioned that some rock beasts might have been missed, but no serious threat remained within the caverns. Dermot highlighted the fact that the swift-flowing stream they must cross was treacherous. Darrow also advised to bring climbing gear, as it was a dangerous descent to the gold.

Koll thought that was all valuable information and informed them that along with a squad of guards, they would bring a group of miners to engineer what was necessary. He stressed the need to plan carefully and told Prince Dalgan that he expected it would take a month to complete the transfer of the hoard. Dalgan agreed with his war leader that the clan should be careful in the endeavor, noting that the hoard had lain at the bottom of the pit for countless years, so a month more would not dull its luster. Dermot interjected that the adventurers should be able to return by then.

At that moment, High Priest Iskar formally asked Prince Dalgan for permission to speak. Slightly surprised, Dalgan of course agreed. Iskar raised his voice so it would be heard clearly throughout the audience chamber, proclaiming that the Clan had witnessed great deeds, accomplished by clan members and dwarf-friends, all under the wise leadership of the Prince. He affirmed that as the High Priest of Moradin, it was his honor and duty to guard the soul of the Clan and to give the word of Moradin upon its leadership. Dalgan started slightly at this and Dermot turned a quizzical look on Iskar.

The High Priest addressed the Prince, saying that the signs and portents were clear, by the vision of Moradin granted to him. He then pronounced that the period of judgment was now over and that the Clan would have a King once more. One month hence, he declared, they shall hail....King Dalgan!

Rahnee and Dermot tensed, looking around the hall for the dwarves’ reaction, while Shanni just looked confused. Dalgan, after a moment, told Iskar that he was gratified by the High Priest’s words. Darrow bowed to Dalgan as Iskar declared that the Prince had proved his strength to lead the Clan, and none should deny it. Dwarven nobles started cries of “Hail!” which were echoed by Darrow and Dermot, as Rahnee curtsied low to the Prince. Iskar turned to the company and told them that they should witness the coronation ceremony a month hence, should they be able to. Dermot and Rahnee responded in the affirmative.

Prince Dalgan asked them if they had any further words, before the Council was dismissed. Rahnee responded by saying they would take their leave, to attend to other affairs, and return in a month's time. Toran Goldfinder, whose face had grown redder during the announcement, interjected by saying that his happiness lay beyond words, and he would like to make a request. Dalgan indicated that he could proceed, as Darrow’s eyes narrowed and Shanni fixed her gaze on the clan treasurer.

Toran began by saying it was important to the Clan to trade with the outside world. Due to recent unfortunate events, he noted, this had been suspended for a time. He requested to speak with the dwarf-friends – meaning the company – regarding potential business dealings, before they departed the clan halls. Dalgan saw no reason for him not to discuss business with them before they left, as Shanni retorted that he had better make it quick. Toran expressed his appreciation and then turned to the company, saying he would find them in the morning before their departure from clan halls. Darrow nodded politely and gave his assent, as did Rahnee. Shanni, less polite, made a couple of snide remarks aimed at Toran as the Prince declared the Council completed.

 

[Carlo-One]

Rahnee gave her blessings to the Prince and the Council, while High Priest Iskar caught Darrow’s eye with a meaningful look as the company moved to depart the audience hall. Shanni, whose mood had improved considerably, sauntered off cockily while Darrow waved to his father Boirin, standing next to the Prince as the head of the guard. Once they reached the guest quarters hallway, Dermot said he would be starting to pack his things, echoed by Shanni. Darrow mentioned that he should stop by and see Iskar before they left, and that they should at least hear what Toran Goldfinder had to say. Rahnee said she was sure what he had to say should produce a good a laugh or two, while Shanni had a ruder comment. With that, everyone except Darrow went to their rooms to start readying their packs, while the dwarf went to talk to Lorn in the smithy.

After a while, Darrow returned and roused the others, who were getting ready for bed, thinking it would be smart to make sure they got to see Iskar before their morning meeting with Goldfinder. Aerikoth put down the book he was studying and joined Darrow and Dermot as Rahnee and Shanni made themselves decent, Shanni sliding something from her pack into her boot as she finished. The five adventurers made their way to the temple, where they found Iskar and Darrow’s acolyte brother Andin.

As Darrow bowed a greeting, Iskar welcomed them and mentioned that he had just been filling in Andin on what had occurred at the Council. The high priest confirmed that he had wanted to see Darrow before the meeting with Toran Goldfinder, then queried the group what they thought of the Council proceedings. Darrow thought it was interesting that Goldfinder wanted the items they found pretty bad, at least that seemed to be the case. Darrow explained that Andin’s warning ahead of the Council meeting was what had let them make the decision so quickly.

Dermot commented that the coronation announcement had felt “a bit now-or-never” as the ranger put it; Iskar told him that he was wise to see that. The high priest asked if they had noted Toran's little dig at the Prince, with an allusion to his illness precipitating the closing off of the clan, which prompted a grunt from Dermot. Iskar remarked that even at the moment of the Prince's triumph, Toran still tried to undermine him. However, the high priest had seen the Prince's health improve, and the signs and portents were all good for the clan. Now was the time to make the Prince properly a King, he concluded, yet much could happen in the month before the coronation.

Darrow said that meant Goldfinder was going to be desperate, while Rahnee advised that Iskar take very good care of Prince Dalgan during the next month. Iskar acknowledged this, but said he feared that whatever Toran planned would not be so obvious. Perhaps what he intended to speak to the company about would contain a clue to his plans, the high priest noted. Darrow promised to keep his ears open.

Nudging Shanni, Dermot stated that the only thing of much significance they found in the old dragon’s crates was a nasty little knife. Iskar looked puzzled and wondered why Toran would care about that. Darrow observed that it was very heavily enchanted; Aerikoth had not seen anything its equal, including the clan’s ancestral axe Haelgrim. Iskar did not think it likely that Toran would want to wield it against the Prince. The wizard explained that its potent enchantments meant it could only be used by someone with a special kind of training. Iskar believed it was best that such an object did not remain with the Clan, part of why they do not trust objects not of dwarven make.

Shanni eventually produced the enchanted short sword from her boot, after juggling it a bit and complaining that it was kind of “slippy”, like it didn’t belong in this world. She placed it on the ground and Iskar failed in an attempt to pick it up. This further reinforced his opinion that it was best not to deal with such items, but would leave it to them, to do what they willed with it outside Clan walls. He also advised them not to show it to Toran. Shanni slightly awkwardly scooped the weapon up and back into her possession.

Rahnee mused that if Toran had a Shadowdancer, as they called them, at his call and were he to give that blade to the shadowdancer, the assassination of the Prince would be almost a deed done. Iskar said that none existed within Clan halls, as he would know if anyone had such skills, as Shanni asked what a shadowdancer was; Dermot also looked uncertain at the mention of the name. Rahnee asserted that she knew two in Waterdeep and called them special kinds of thieves, trained to slip through space by way of shadows. Shanni looked a little dubious at that. Aerikoth confirmed that was the training and skills the sword required of any that would wield it. After some additional banter, Iskar advised them to rest well and have their minds be alert on the morrow.

 

[Carlo-One]

Once back in the guest quarters, each of the adventurers prepared in their own way for their last night’s stay inside the citadel. Shanni rigged a trap inside the door to her and Rahnee’s room, not being the trusting sort, while Rahnee kept a naked longsword by her bed. Dermot loaded a crossbow and placed it within reach, sleeping lightly. Aerikoth went to bed after allowing his familiar Zeluth to perch in the clan’s outside guest cave, since the raven preferred being out of doors. Darrow simply settled down to rest and soon was snoring loudly. (I would call these the actions of paranoid adventurers, but in fact Toran Goldfinder has been out to get them. --R)

As the day of Ches 16 dawned on the surface, the dwarven citadel began stirring awake. Darrow was up first and joined Dermot in knocking on the door to the ladies’ chamber, as Aerikoth exited his own room, wizard staff in hand. Impatient for breakfast, Darrow knocked more loudly and started shouting at Shanni after she asked who it was, announcing they were the Cormanthor elves. Some more pointed, grouchy joking was exchanged as the door opened and Shanni finished removing her trap. Rahnee, backed up by Shanni, then told the others they had heard someone trying to get into their room last night. Dermot speculated that it might have been some drunk, unsure where they were. Shanni said that at that point she didn’t care, just wanted to get the hells out of there fast.

Dermot and Darrow were suggesting they pack their bellies in advance of their trip when Toran Goldfinder walked up and greeted them in a surprisingly cheery manner. The party managed to respond politely to this, although Shanni just wrinkled her nose. Toran queried if they could discuss their business then, which received tepid assents from Darrow, Dermot and Rahnee. Shanni however announced that she was going to eat, so asked if they could do it over breakfast. Toran gave a forced-seeming laugh in response and excused his rudeness, declining to join them while saying he would return to the guest chamber in a half hour. Darrow agreed it was best not to discuss business before he’d had his first ale, so Toran and his two guards, who had hung behind in the background, took their leave.

At the clan tavern the party was hailed as dwarf-friends and hoard-finders, their food and drink coming out quick as the tavern keeper could bring it. They settled down at one of the tables and began talking about their upcoming meeting with the clan treasurer. Dermot reckoned he was going to offer them money for something, a notion Rahnee quickly agreed with. Shanni just was sure that he was getting “sod all” from her, as she put it.

The petite rogue then tucked into her porridge speedily and gulped down her goat’s milk, saying she just wanted to get out of there fast and asked where they would be going next. Rahnee in response reminded them of their promise to go talk with Losifan Urdo at the Mercenaries Guild in Westgate, which the others vaguely remembered. They agreed they had nowhere else they needed to go at the moment. Rahnee mentioned to Darrow, Dermot and Shanni that their adventuring company – of which she and Aerikoth were the remaining members – had done work for House Urdo in the past, lived through it and got paid. Dermot remarked that this was the best kind of work and Shanni seemed interested in repeating the experience with House Urdo. (Rahnee must be referring to the "Urdo Isle" adventure, which ended with the party's fleeing ship being attacked by the young adult red dragon Gonzo. Of course she is correct, they got paid at the end of it, but it seems she left out some important details. --C)

Changing the subject, Rahnee asked Aerikoth if he thought Teziir merchant Queron Ulanthar would be interested in running caravans to “Veranbrok”, what she called the previous Hallton barony lands surrounding the village of Tallwell. She admitted that there would not be much profit for him in the beginning, looking thoughtful. Rahnee optimistically stated that as the area got back on its feet, then Queron would have a place to sell his goods. Aerikoth also was uncertain as to the profits he could expect, suggesting that Queron perhaps would be willing to assist Rahnee’s efforts to revitalize the area, especially considering their rescue of his daughter Janatha. Darrow said they could front a little money for the first caravan or two.

Rahnee affirmed that she would use her share of the hoard money towards helping the village, along the lines of what Darrow had suggested. (A noble intent. But adventurers' promises are often difficult to keep. --R) Her thoughts regarding Tallwell turned blacker as she swore to find whoever in Westgate had backed the self-styled “Duke” Hallton, considering them to have just as much blame for Hallton’s slaying of their former companions Brok-Tul and Veran and the desecration of their bodies. Dermot and Shanni eyed their vengeful companion warily as Darrow got up to have a conversation with the tavern keeper about the business of brewing and selling ale. Aerikoth, who had been standing quietly, said something under his breath and squeezed his free hand tightly.

 

[Carlo-One]

With breakfast done, the five companions returned one last time to their rooms, to pack up and go. They assembled in the guest quarters’ corridor as Shanni finished packing, which included checking to make sure nothing had been disturbed in their absence. Darrow mentioned his desire to start a brewery in Tallwell and that the Ironhelm tavernkeeper might come out and run it for the right price, which found favor with Rahnee. She gave a happy laugh at the prospect, but then stopped as she heard the clank of armor coming down the hallway.

Toran Goldfinder arrived with his guards and once more offered his greetings. Dermot acknowledged this with a deep nod, while Darrow declared he could be civil, now that he’d had his ale, and bowed in response. Aerikoth as usual stood calmly, holding his staff in front of himself with both hands and remaining silent. Toran smiled and said that he saluted the bearer of Haelgrim as he headed to the outside world, asking when Darrow intended to return. Darrow admitted that they didn’t rightly have a plan, but based on the tasks ahead of them, he guessed they would return no sooner than a tenday or two. Shanni chimed in and said that maybe it would just be to pick up their share of the hoard, breezily saying they had to go and give the things they had found a good test.

Toran, as if beginning a prepared speech, explained that as the one responsible for the Clan's wealth and trade, he wished to explore every opportunity to increase benefits for the Clan. In a querying tone, he raised the fact they had spoken of a human noble in Teziir who would be interested in trade with the Clan. Toran also addressed Shanni and expressed his hope there were no hard feelings for any previous misunderstandings.

In response Shanni yawned a little, obviously deliberately, as Rahnee informed Toran that they were speaking of Council Member Queron. The clan treasurer then asked if he should send a trade mission to the city, whether it would be able to find and converse with him, which Rahnee answered in the affirmative. Darrow confirmed that Queron would be the right man in Teziir to discuss trade with and had a good impression of the clan, as Darrow and his companions had helped him in the past.

Toran showed enthusiasm at this and said he hoped to open up new opportunities for the Clan, this sounding like an excellent one. He stated that in matters of trade, however, one must show that one has something special to furnish; he believed one of the items from the dragon hoard might be just the thing. Dermot quirked an eyebrow at this and looked at the others, as Toran continued talking about how such an item would be a token of Clan Ironhelm’s bounty and new prospects. He then asked if any of them had an item they would like to sell - at an excellent price.

Shanni expressed her disbelief at this while Darrow, supported by Rahnee, commented that there was plenty of dwarven arms and armor which would be considered special by humans. Toran dismissed this, saying that Ironhelm had always traded the wares of its smithy, so something unusual to attract more attention was what was needed. Shanni facetiously suggested Helrud’s boots, which had a nice pair of laces in them according to her, which prompted a forced laugh from Toran. He asked if there was nothing else that they had which would be worth, say, ten thousand gold.

When this question was met largely with obfuscation and indifference, Toran pointed out that such an item would be difficult to sell, given the need to find someone with the necessary wealth and interest, modestly terming himself such a person. Shanni replied by telling him there was no point in selling something you can make better use of while travelling. After another forced smile, Toran alluded to the fact that oftentimes, having objects of great value can be dangerous, since one must constantly protect them, and what better place than the citadel of the clan for that? Darrow bluntly said they were used to danger and Rahnee termed the ten thousand gold a drop in the bucket for an item such as he was describing. Toran countered by saying that ten thousand was a princely sum.

Dermot, playing ignorant, questioned what “Lord Goldfinder” was expecting, as the real bounty was the hoard, according to the ranger, with their “little souvenirs” just tokens. He then paused meaningfully and asked if there was something he had in mind, wondering out loud how would anyone know what was down there. Toran, perceiving an opening, thought perhaps they could show him what they had found. Wordlessly, Darrow pointed to his boots while Dermot said the most superb thing he had seen was a sword, producing his cold magic short sword. Toran inspected the sword and agreed that it was nice indeed, but was still curious why they were willing to forego half of the dragon hoard’s gold, for the items they kept. Dermot told him that this way was easier and the ranger’s assertion of the practicality of their choice was echoed by Shanni, Rahnee and Darrow.

Toran appeared skeptical but gave up further probing, leaving them with a thin smile and an offer to do business in the future. Before he left, he confirmed that they would be at the inauguration a month hence; Darrow assured him of his presence while Shanni sported an obvious smirk. As soon as the clan treasurer and his guards had disappeared around the corner, Shanni asked if they could go now.