Samir peers at the mark on Malachi's face for a moment before replying. "To be perfectly honest, Malachi, I am not certain that the mark on you actually does anything. It may be just a brand for identification."
Gathering himself mentally, Samir begins readying himself and gathering up his materials needed to attempt to disarm the marks on the cultists. "I will gladly take some help. Again, I have to stress that I am working with theory here. I have never worked on skin before. Tattooing is decidedly not one of my specialties. Perhaps if one of the cultists can be separated from the others, I think that would be best. Less chance of someone else interfering that way."
Letting the others deal with getting one of the cultists alone and secured, Samir takes a moment to go over the notes he had made concerning the sigils and his efforts to disable the electrical charge on the staple. Confident that he is refreshed and sure in his reasoning, he approaches the first of the subjects and lays out the ink and tools needed where he can reach them easily. "Silas, please, in order for you to help me successfully, I need you to do exactly as I say if I tell you to do something. Particularly in dealing with a volatile subject such as this. Hesitation could be... unpleasant."
All preparations made and the man in front of him under the influence of the sleeping moss, the artificer steadies himself with a breath and focuses on the problem before him. Thin leather gloves cover his hands as he takes up one of the tools taken from the prisoner and dips it carefully in the ink. Speaking quietly but intently, he directs Silas in assiting him to keep the skin taut and unmoving. Steady hands move to connect points within the explosive sigil, creating new paths for the intrinsic energies stored within to pass through, routing them into a new direction and back upon themselves in such a manner as to force them to slowly and steadily burn itself out harmlessly. It is slow, precise, almost agonizing work, but the sort of thing that he has done time and time again for years now when dealing with small mechanical devices and delicate parts. A bead of sweat trickles down from his temple, irregardless of the coolness of the underground room, falling to the fabric of his shirt to create a small, dark spot.
Finally he sits back, his eyes peering intently through the lenses of his glasses at the work before him. Samir traces the lines of the altered sigil with his gaze. Satisfied, he drops back onto his heels with a deep sigh. Wiping his sleeve over his damp forehead he allows himself a nod of satisfaction before gathering up the tools and moving them out of the way. And then he was on to the second subject, to repeat it all over again...
Samir feels confident after the first one that if the spell could be interrupted, he had done so. According to the theory-work he'd done so far, his work appears sound. But could he be certain? Moving on to the second one he gets back to it. A few minutes in, he unexpectedly finds himself falling into a bit of a groove. Though the symbols are all nonsense to him at this point, pieces start to come together.
Samir had always found, with his tinkering and his studies and his knack for manipulating magical energies through his craft, that there is a logic in most things. And as he replicates his work on the second unmoving cultist, he begins to feel the fringes of the logic governing the runes. Though it's far from enough for him to decipher any meaning or function from the patterns, by the time he sits back from the second subject, he is all but certain that the logic has been entirely broken, rendering the tattoos no more than gaudy decorations.
Even as he finishes, a tapping on the stone wall around the bend leading to the inn can be heard like a knock. Rana's voice follows after. "Hey how are things going down here? Mind if I pop my head in?"
Ashley sits back and joins Joren as Samir does his work, completely mesmerized by the work he does. She finds herself holding her breath often, and keeping herself as still as possible, trying her best to not disturb any of the work. The success of this would be so big, would really untie their hands quite a bit. Once Samir completes the first one, she can't help but give a little whoop! of excitement.
When Rana pokes her head in, Ashley jumps from her seat as if sitting on a compressed spring. "Yes! Come on in, good to see you! Everything going alright up at the Inn?"
Silas maintains a serious face for the entirety of the procedure making sure to follow any direction given by Samir to the letter, he also checks and double checks the moss gas delivery system that Samir put together before each procedure, making sure they sit tight on the faces of the prisoners and there is no risk of effecting Samir as he works.
Once all is done Silas helps with tossing the prisoners back in their cages and then greets Rana warmly.
This post has potentially manipulated dice roll results.
Malachi is a little disappointed that nothing can be done with his mark at the moment and wonders if Samir is right, if the mark is for identification only. Remembering what he viewed within Vilus’ mind, his one blue aura marked with yellow, he pulls the amulet Samir found closer to him, watching to see if the amulet glows and what color it displays.
He watches Samir perform his work with interest, making note of his skill and precision, and of the fact only two prisoners had the markings. “Marcus must have his connection with Razmus in other ways. Should we question him to find out what he knows before exploring the tunnels?” He pauses, remembering the dangerous experiences he had yesterday, but continues on anyway “If someone wants to question him, I can help detect if he is lying or hiding something if we wish.” As Rana enters the room, he also greets her with a smile "Please, help yourself to some breakfast."
Pulling the item closer, Malachi sees a bright blue take up most of its surface, slivers of red still pointing at Vilus and Joren. But as he holds it up near his head, he sees a thin yellow vein work its way through the azure.
Absorbed as he gets in Samir's work, he doesn't think to put it down. As Samir begins to slip into a groove working on the second cultist, though, something catches his eye. He looks back down at the amulet in his hands and sees red beginning to bloom on its face in Samir's direction. When he finishes his work, the red begins to fade.
Rana pokes her head around the corner and comes in to the lab. "As good as things can be. It's quiet today, which is nice. No unexpected visitors. Oh, thanks Malachi, but I've already eaten." She notices the cultists on the floor and does not attempt to hide her disgust. "Right, Kairem had mentioned you had the others locked up in here. That actually brings me to why I am down here. We've been talking... well, those of us who are able to at this point... and we've decided we are going to stay here for the winter and then figure out where to go from there. No one really wants to return home looking like... this. So we might make for the Shield Pass and try to find a place to make a fresh start." She seems somber, but resolute as she explains the plan. "But first, we were wondering what your plan is. Both with the cave, and with these prisoners. We can't have them left here, where they could blow up at any moment. We just couldn't feel safe."
Joren paces keeps watch near the cave-in while Samir works and his friends and Rana talk. He breathes a sigh of relief once it seems that Samir may have 'disarmed' the two 'death-bomb' cultists, trusting the artificer completely in such matters, but he still does not know how to answer Rana's question about what to do next. He leaves it to the others.
It is why I would never be making officer among the Khirian Echo Knights of my home. My inability to make decisions when there is time to be reaching them with forethought. (Forced, rapid-fire reactions, and battlefield tactical decisions I can be doing fine). Well, also I will never be making officer because of my being scorned and exiled, of course. Lucky, I am being to have found friends who can be choosing our course wisely. Hoping so, anyway.
Ashley rushes over to her and takes Rana in an embrace. She doesn't hold her long as Ashley is well aware of how warm her skin can be to those not used to it. "Rana, I am so sorry you are all in this situation and faced with such a difficult decision." she holds her eyes as she talks, wanting her to know she truly means what she is saying, "I am grateful though, that you have each other and that you feel you can make a fresh start. That is hope and a plan, and with those two things, honestly you can get far."she looks like she is about to say more, then changes her mind, she looks over to Samir, "Rana, he is the one you want to talk to about the prisoners. I feel he has accomplished much with them in such little time. This man is a genius."turning back to Rana, "As for our plan, we were just discussing that. I am thinking we are planning on continuing down the cave, but it hasn't been decided yet."
Samir looks up in the middle of withdrawing a book from his satchel, followed by his own writing implements. He has taken himself back to the desk once more, slouching in the chair a bit as the adrenaline of working intensely fades. He briefly adjusts his glasses once more before speaking, looking slightly embarrassed as he addresses Rana. "Well, um, I believe that I had managed to disable the dangerous sigils inscribed on their bodies. So that, hopefully, their potential for causing damage has lessened appreciably." For a moment, he looks as if he will continue, before he sets to writing in his book, recording his thoughts and insights from the recent work. "Oh, and, um, thank you Silas. For assisting. You did very well."
"Really?" Rana says, surprise evident in her face. She looks over at the cultists again, and a storm of emotions crosses her face. Finally she says, "If I could make a selfish request, could you leave them here? With us? If they can be of no further harm, then I think I would like to have them stand trial before those they hurt. They... I... need to have justice. Closure. Healing. I don't know what exactly that will look like, but that is something we," she gestures in the direction of the inn where the other ex prisoners are, "shall decide together. With your leave, of course." She looks each person in the eyes after she finishes speaking.
Joren nods at once to Rana's request and leaves it to the others in is group as to whether they agree as well. Due to the bitter memory of how his experience in the Khirian army ended, and his perceived unfairness of it all, he's never put as much faith in organizations and laws as some of the people he admires (including perhaps Marion and Samir) might.
Let those who were so clearly wronged be making the choice, facing their tormentors, and if they are so choosing, dole out the sentence and the sword of justice be wielding.
"thank you Samir, I... Um, was glad to be of assistance." Silas does an awkward head bow to Samir then turns from the studious half orc and listens to Rana's plans and subsequent request, "keep the cloak, it looks good on you, if a little big, but you'll need it more than I do where you're headed.
As for the prisoners I think it only right that they are tried before those they hurt, it also takes the decision out of our hands which is helpful, thank you... That is unless anyone has an issue with it."
It is apparent to those who pay attention, that Silas is more relaxed now that Two is gone, and the realisation that the group will soon be departing the inn is exciting to him, however the events of the last few days have left their mark on the Goliath, he is picking his words carefully and continues to cast a concerned glance at the mark on Malachi's head, every now and again.
Thinking that Rana's request is really the only way to go that is not only just for the ex-prisoners, it also absolves her group of what to do with them, "Yes Rana, they shall be your and your groups responsibility. I think they deserve judgement, and who not best to judge? I truly hope it does help bring you all closure in this horrible situation."
She however does not look to others for their input, decidedly thinking that discussion now over. Turning back to the group, whether Rana would like to stay or not, "So, back to our discussion, what is next? And when should we start off? I would think sooner the better as it sounds like we have a lot to do."
Malachi continues to watch the colors change on the amulet. “Interesting. I see the blue and yellow, but what does the red represent? We saw that in Vilus’ vision as well. I don’t understand it.” Malachi says little on the fate of the prisoners, and doesn’t take a position, but it is much easier for the group if they are not watching them.
When the conversation turns to what is next he speaks up again “If we mean to go to Tensmith, we should follow the tunnels and see where they lead. I for one am interested in breaking my link to this being. And Ashley is right, the sooner the better. I am ready to go.”
Vilus' head snaps up out of his distracted state as Malachi mentions his name, he looks quickly between Samir and Joren "oh.. um yeah, Vilus, real name, apologies for the deception, hunted by a secretive organisation and all that." He gives a small apologetic wave to them
Joren looks at the goliath, thoroughly befuddled for a moment. Then he realizes what this must be and a slow grin spreads on his broad, half-dwarven face.
Silas and Vilus. They sound almost the same! As if one could ever be a cover for the other. I think I am finally understanding western jokes and humor!
He puts his index finger raised alongside his nose. "Ah yes, yes. Vilus being your true name, indeed. Introducing my own real name shall I? Soren it is. Through subterfuge most ingenious, it is rather my echo that is being named Joren. Those who are hunting me will never guess."
He leans back satisfied with himself, waiting for the laughter.
Puzzlement crosses Vilus' face, before the penny drops and a large smile breaks his usual stoney visage, he bellows out a loud laugh and then suddenly has an idea, in his amusement he seems to concentrate hard, "hang on.. here look!" With that his Goliath form transforms into a copy of Joren although significantly taller. "I'll be.. um.. Boren! Ha ha!"
Rana inclines her head and says, "Thank you for your understanding. And for everything. So you are departing through the tunnel? I wish you luck, and safety. And if we ever meet again, know that we are all in your debt."
It takes about 10 minutes for everyone working together to clear the barricading Joren had added to the cave-in, and then the group sets off down the tunnel. Reaching the fork, the try out the left-hand side to confirm Vilus's theory that the mark on the tunnel wall was a visual representation of the path's branches. Indeed, after a curve to the left, it rejoins with the other path just past the moss corridor.
Joren beams, happy to be in on a joke for once (though he really isn't - now convinced that the real name is Silas, and that "Vilus" is just a running gag).
"I am pitying the opponent that must face your reach, Boren," he proclaims solemnly, saluting, right hand to chest.
His mood turns somber, though, as Rana takes her leave and he wishes her a heartfelt goodbye even though he really does not know her. Only some of what she's been through. But that is enough. He asks her to pay his respects to Kairem as well.
"To Tensmith, then we are going? If the cultists wanted the mines to remain closed, perhaps we can make sure they re-open."
As the party begins down the tunnels, Joren stays in the middle of the pack, trying not to have the clinking of his chain mail ruin everyone's stealth as they walk. Reasonably often, he remains behind for about 45', watching and listening for anything coming behind them. Then immediately uses his echo and its movement to switch places and catch up (when he does this, at least, he is silent).
Samir peers at the mark on Malachi's face for a moment before replying. "To be perfectly honest, Malachi, I am not certain that the mark on you actually does anything. It may be just a brand for identification."
Gathering himself mentally, Samir begins readying himself and gathering up his materials needed to attempt to disarm the marks on the cultists. "I will gladly take some help. Again, I have to stress that I am working with theory here. I have never worked on skin before. Tattooing is decidedly not one of my specialties. Perhaps if one of the cultists can be separated from the others, I think that would be best. Less chance of someone else interfering that way."
Letting the others deal with getting one of the cultists alone and secured, Samir takes a moment to go over the notes he had made concerning the sigils and his efforts to disable the electrical charge on the staple. Confident that he is refreshed and sure in his reasoning, he approaches the first of the subjects and lays out the ink and tools needed where he can reach them easily. "Silas, please, in order for you to help me successfully, I need you to do exactly as I say if I tell you to do something. Particularly in dealing with a volatile subject such as this. Hesitation could be... unpleasant."
All preparations made and the man in front of him under the influence of the sleeping moss, the artificer steadies himself with a breath and focuses on the problem before him. Thin leather gloves cover his hands as he takes up one of the tools taken from the prisoner and dips it carefully in the ink. Speaking quietly but intently, he directs Silas in assiting him to keep the skin taut and unmoving. Steady hands move to connect points within the explosive sigil, creating new paths for the intrinsic energies stored within to pass through, routing them into a new direction and back upon themselves in such a manner as to force them to slowly and steadily burn itself out harmlessly. It is slow, precise, almost agonizing work, but the sort of thing that he has done time and time again for years now when dealing with small mechanical devices and delicate parts. A bead of sweat trickles down from his temple, irregardless of the coolness of the underground room, falling to the fabric of his shirt to create a small, dark spot.
Finally he sits back, his eyes peering intently through the lenses of his glasses at the work before him. Samir traces the lines of the altered sigil with his gaze. Satisfied, he drops back onto his heels with a deep sigh. Wiping his sleeve over his damp forehead he allows himself a nod of satisfaction before gathering up the tools and moving them out of the way. And then he was on to the second subject, to repeat it all over again...
Samir feels confident after the first one that if the spell could be interrupted, he had done so. According to the theory-work he'd done so far, his work appears sound. But could he be certain? Moving on to the second one he gets back to it. A few minutes in, he unexpectedly finds himself falling into a bit of a groove. Though the symbols are all nonsense to him at this point, pieces start to come together.
Samir had always found, with his tinkering and his studies and his knack for manipulating magical energies through his craft, that there is a logic in most things. And as he replicates his work on the second unmoving cultist, he begins to feel the fringes of the logic governing the runes. Though it's far from enough for him to decipher any meaning or function from the patterns, by the time he sits back from the second subject, he is all but certain that the logic has been entirely broken, rendering the tattoos no more than gaudy decorations.
Even as he finishes, a tapping on the stone wall around the bend leading to the inn can be heard like a knock. Rana's voice follows after. "Hey how are things going down here? Mind if I pop my head in?"
Ashley sits back and joins Joren as Samir does his work, completely mesmerized by the work he does. She finds herself holding her breath often, and keeping herself as still as possible, trying her best to not disturb any of the work. The success of this would be so big, would really untie their hands quite a bit. Once Samir completes the first one, she can't help but give a little whoop! of excitement.
When Rana pokes her head in, Ashley jumps from her seat as if sitting on a compressed spring. "Yes! Come on in, good to see you! Everything going alright up at the Inn?"
Silas maintains a serious face for the entirety of the procedure making sure to follow any direction given by Samir to the letter, he also checks and double checks the moss gas delivery system that Samir put together before each procedure, making sure they sit tight on the faces of the prisoners and there is no risk of effecting Samir as he works.
Once all is done Silas helps with tossing the prisoners back in their cages and then greets Rana warmly.
Malachi is a little disappointed that nothing can be done with his mark at the moment and wonders if Samir is right, if the mark is for identification only. Remembering what he viewed within Vilus’ mind, his one blue aura marked with yellow, he pulls the amulet Samir found closer to him, watching to see if the amulet glows and what color it displays.
Perception (if needed): 16. (Passive Perception:14)
He watches Samir perform his work with interest, making note of his skill and precision, and of the fact only two prisoners had the markings. “Marcus must have his connection with Razmus in other ways. Should we question him to find out what he knows before exploring the tunnels?” He pauses, remembering the dangerous experiences he had yesterday, but continues on anyway “If someone wants to question him, I can help detect if he is lying or hiding something if we wish.” As Rana enters the room, he also greets her with a smile "Please, help yourself to some breakfast."
Pulling the item closer, Malachi sees a bright blue take up most of its surface, slivers of red still pointing at Vilus and Joren. But as he holds it up near his head, he sees a thin yellow vein work its way through the azure.
Absorbed as he gets in Samir's work, he doesn't think to put it down. As Samir begins to slip into a groove working on the second cultist, though, something catches his eye. He looks back down at the amulet in his hands and sees red beginning to bloom on its face in Samir's direction. When he finishes his work, the red begins to fade.
Rana pokes her head around the corner and comes in to the lab. "As good as things can be. It's quiet today, which is nice. No unexpected visitors. Oh, thanks Malachi, but I've already eaten." She notices the cultists on the floor and does not attempt to hide her disgust. "Right, Kairem had mentioned you had the others locked up in here. That actually brings me to why I am down here. We've been talking... well, those of us who are able to at this point... and we've decided we are going to stay here for the winter and then figure out where to go from there. No one really wants to return home looking like... this. So we might make for the Shield Pass and try to find a place to make a fresh start." She seems somber, but resolute as she explains the plan. "But first, we were wondering what your plan is. Both with the cave, and with these prisoners. We can't have them left here, where they could blow up at any moment. We just couldn't feel safe."
Joren paces keeps watch near the cave-in while Samir works and his friends and Rana talk. He breathes a sigh of relief once it seems that Samir may have 'disarmed' the two 'death-bomb' cultists, trusting the artificer completely in such matters, but he still does not know how to answer Rana's question about what to do next. He leaves it to the others.
It is why I would never be making officer among the Khirian Echo Knights of my home. My inability to make decisions when there is time to be reaching them with forethought. (Forced, rapid-fire reactions, and battlefield tactical decisions I can be doing fine). Well, also I will never be making officer because of my being scorned and exiled, of course. Lucky, I am being to have found friends who can be choosing our course wisely. Hoping so, anyway.
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Barn(Paladin1): Damian_May's Ereworn Under the Shadow | Lyra(Warlock2/Bard4): VitusW's Silverwood Forest
Dyson/Eleo(Cleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(Druid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(Sorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(Fighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(Monk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(Cleric3/Sorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Ashley rushes over to her and takes Rana in an embrace. She doesn't hold her long as Ashley is well aware of how warm her skin can be to those not used to it. "Rana, I am so sorry you are all in this situation and faced with such a difficult decision." she holds her eyes as she talks, wanting her to know she truly means what she is saying, "I am grateful though, that you have each other and that you feel you can make a fresh start. That is hope and a plan, and with those two things, honestly you can get far." she looks like she is about to say more, then changes her mind, she looks over to Samir, "Rana, he is the one you want to talk to about the prisoners. I feel he has accomplished much with them in such little time. This man is a genius." turning back to Rana, "As for our plan, we were just discussing that. I am thinking we are planning on continuing down the cave, but it hasn't been decided yet."
"Wait, what do you mean? What have you accomplished?" she asks, curious yet apprehensive.
Samir looks up in the middle of withdrawing a book from his satchel, followed by his own writing implements. He has taken himself back to the desk once more, slouching in the chair a bit as the adrenaline of working intensely fades. He briefly adjusts his glasses once more before speaking, looking slightly embarrassed as he addresses Rana. "Well, um, I believe that I had managed to disable the dangerous sigils inscribed on their bodies. So that, hopefully, their potential for causing damage has lessened appreciably." For a moment, he looks as if he will continue, before he sets to writing in his book, recording his thoughts and insights from the recent work. "Oh, and, um, thank you Silas. For assisting. You did very well."
"Really?" Rana says, surprise evident in her face. She looks over at the cultists again, and a storm of emotions crosses her face. Finally she says, "If I could make a selfish request, could you leave them here? With us? If they can be of no further harm, then I think I would like to have them stand trial before those they hurt. They... I... need to have justice. Closure. Healing. I don't know what exactly that will look like, but that is something we," she gestures in the direction of the inn where the other ex prisoners are, "shall decide together. With your leave, of course." She looks each person in the eyes after she finishes speaking.
Joren nods at once to Rana's request and leaves it to the others in is group as to whether they agree as well. Due to the bitter memory of how his experience in the Khirian army ended, and his perceived unfairness of it all, he's never put as much faith in organizations and laws as some of the people he admires (including perhaps Marion and Samir) might.
Let those who were so clearly wronged be making the choice, facing their tormentors, and if they are so choosing, dole out the sentence and the sword of justice be wielding.
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Barn(Paladin1): Damian_May's Ereworn Under the Shadow | Lyra(Warlock2/Bard4): VitusW's Silverwood Forest
Dyson/Eleo(Cleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(Druid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(Sorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(Fighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(Monk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(Cleric3/Sorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
"thank you Samir, I... Um, was glad to be of assistance." Silas does an awkward head bow to Samir then turns from the studious half orc and listens to Rana's plans and subsequent request, "keep the cloak, it looks good on you, if a little big, but you'll need it more than I do where you're headed.
As for the prisoners I think it only right that they are tried before those they hurt, it also takes the decision out of our hands which is helpful, thank you... That is unless anyone has an issue with it."
It is apparent to those who pay attention, that Silas is more relaxed now that Two is gone, and the realisation that the group will soon be departing the inn is exciting to him, however the events of the last few days have left their mark on the Goliath, he is picking his words carefully and continues to cast a concerned glance at the mark on Malachi's head, every now and again.
Thinking that Rana's request is really the only way to go that is not only just for the ex-prisoners, it also absolves her group of what to do with them, "Yes Rana, they shall be your and your groups responsibility. I think they deserve judgement, and who not best to judge? I truly hope it does help bring you all closure in this horrible situation."
She however does not look to others for their input, decidedly thinking that discussion now over. Turning back to the group, whether Rana would like to stay or not, "So, back to our discussion, what is next? And when should we start off? I would think sooner the better as it sounds like we have a lot to do."
Malachi continues to watch the colors change on the amulet. “Interesting. I see the blue and yellow, but what does the red represent? We saw that in Vilus’ vision as well. I don’t understand it.” Malachi says little on the fate of the prisoners, and doesn’t take a position, but it is much easier for the group if they are not watching them.
When the conversation turns to what is next he speaks up again “If we mean to go to Tensmith, we should follow the tunnels and see where they lead. I for one am interested in breaking my link to this being. And Ashley is right, the sooner the better. I am ready to go.”
Vilus' head snaps up out of his distracted state as Malachi mentions his name, he looks quickly between Samir and Joren "oh.. um yeah, Vilus, real name, apologies for the deception, hunted by a secretive organisation and all that." He gives a small apologetic wave to them
Joren looks at the goliath, thoroughly befuddled for a moment. Then he realizes what this must be and a slow grin spreads on his broad, half-dwarven face.
Silas and Vilus. They sound almost the same! As if one could ever be a cover for the other. I think I am finally understanding western jokes and humor!
He puts his index finger raised alongside his nose. "Ah yes, yes. Vilus being your true name, indeed. Introducing my own real name shall I? Soren it is. Through subterfuge most ingenious, it is rather my echo that is being named Joren. Those who are hunting me will never guess."
He leans back satisfied with himself, waiting for the laughter.
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Barn(Paladin1): Damian_May's Ereworn Under the Shadow | Lyra(Warlock2/Bard4): VitusW's Silverwood Forest
Dyson/Eleo(Cleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(Druid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(Sorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(Fighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(Monk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(Cleric3/Sorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk
Puzzlement crosses Vilus' face, before the penny drops and a large smile breaks his usual stoney visage, he bellows out a loud laugh and then suddenly has an idea, in his amusement he seems to concentrate hard, "hang on.. here look!" With that his Goliath form transforms into a copy of Joren although significantly taller. "I'll be.. um.. Boren! Ha ha!"
Rana inclines her head and says, "Thank you for your understanding. And for everything. So you are departing through the tunnel? I wish you luck, and safety. And if we ever meet again, know that we are all in your debt."
It takes about 10 minutes for everyone working together to clear the barricading Joren had added to the cave-in, and then the group sets off down the tunnel. Reaching the fork, the try out the left-hand side to confirm Vilus's theory that the mark on the tunnel wall was a visual representation of the path's branches. Indeed, after a curve to the left, it rejoins with the other path just past the moss corridor.
Joren beams, happy to be in on a joke for once (though he really isn't - now convinced that the real name is Silas, and that "Vilus" is just a running gag).
"I am pitying the opponent that must face your reach, Boren," he proclaims solemnly, saluting, right hand to chest.
His mood turns somber, though, as Rana takes her leave and he wishes her a heartfelt goodbye even though he really does not know her. Only some of what she's been through. But that is enough. He asks her to pay his respects to Kairem as well.
"To Tensmith, then we are going? If the cultists wanted the mines to remain closed, perhaps we can make sure they re-open."
As the party begins down the tunnels, Joren stays in the middle of the pack, trying not to have the clinking of his chain mail ruin everyone's stealth as they walk. Reasonably often, he remains behind for about 45', watching and listening for anything coming behind them. Then immediately uses his echo and its movement to switch places and catch up (when he does this, at least, he is silent).
Tanis(Ranger1): Shiverquill's Tempest City | Barn(Paladin1): Damian_May's Ereworn Under the Shadow | Lyra(Warlock2/Bard4): VitusW's Silverwood Forest
Dyson/Eleo(Cleric4): Vos' Beyond the Veil | Soren(Druid5): Bartjeebus' Ravenloft | Ophelia(Sorcerer4): Ashen_Age's Risen from the Sands
Joren(Fighter6): NotDrizzt's Simple Request | Sabetha(Monk3): Bedlymn's Murder Court | Seri(Cleric3/Sorcerer1): Bartjeebus' Greyhawk