(Sorry for the delay. Been exhausted from work.)

Rose just hummed a tune, one Gwen would recognize as one she had composed, as she walked through the town. Not seeming to be bothered by the mention of pay, or lack of. She was simply happy to back in town. Her elation was only briefly halted when noticing Cirrus' expression. You okay Cirrus? You look like you've seen a ghost.

Rather than respond, Cirrus goes to find Sildar at the inn.

Gundren continues to grumble under his breath as everyone seems to make their way to the inn, including himself. His face was slowly going red - whether with shame at his loss, anger, or the cold simply overcoming his resistance in the moment, he moves with the 'pack.' Yue following Paavu, and Gwen staying silent for now to see how it all played out, but eventually humming along with rose as some of the few townsfolk took notice of the .. odd group; As they had a tanned elf with silver hair... a tiny halfling, a Goliath with a wolf, an oddly dressed dwarf, a Blue Man, A trio of goblins.... A nearly naked Cat man, and a walking turtle....  But by now the townsfolk were getting used to odd people coming in, and as their lives had only improved since... they actually seemed to smile and go about their business.

Upon entering the Stonehill Inn, a heatwave would meet you all, warmth washing over you and company .

Tolben was in his usual spot, cleaning glasses, as the barmaids delivered or took the customers orders.  There seemed to be a few more in today, and the place seemed busier than usual. Fresh faces of travelers, though none looking of any importance sat scattered at various tables or in small groups. Upon entering Tolben would recognize some of the group and  wave them in. It seems your group has grown since we last saw you! And you've a few more goblins with you this time. So, did everything go well? Did you find Gu.. he pauses as he see's the dwarf come inside nearly last. 

The screeching of a chair is heard as it grinds against the floor, and Sildar spins around at Gundrens name being mentioned, spilling over his food on accident in the process. Gundren?!  it takes but a moment for him to spot the dwarf You're alive! They found you! they seemed less like questions, than statements of disbelief. Indeed, I am. But I've lost me soul fer now.  Tolben, we'll be usin that room aye. I assume my credit still has weight here, so put on my tab rental of the room. And food and board for the ragtag group what saved me. 

Oh, of course. yes. Your credit will always be taken here Gundren, you've been nothing but good to Phandalin. I'll send for Stella to be your personal waitress, And food will be brought down shortly, unfortunately we just finished cooking for our current guests, sorry for the inconvenience. There's already ale on tab below if you're thirsty and wish to warm your bones. And as Gundren has just paid for it on credit, it's yours to use as you all please.

Gundren and Sildar share a short hug and some small pleasantries before Gundren heads to the staircase, however, instead of going up the stairs, he knocks on the wall supporting it, and a door opens moments later.  Gundren seeming to head 'down.' Sildar nodding as he went and moving to the group says Sorry for the trouble, but we have much to discuss, And I've a reward to give you once I see exactly how much of the task was completed. Also, while you were gone, we had the carpenters in town renovate your mansion, at no cost to you. All they did was patch up the holes and weaknesses. The rest is up to you in that regard. So come, lets talk of the future. And once this meeting is over, I will be heading to report my your destroying of the Redbrands, and Glasstaff. Cirrus would notice that Sildar was speaking to Paavu, Lark, and Rose, but seemed to be talkign past Cirrus.. as if he didn't know him. However, before this could all sink in...

Sildar began to head down into the private room below the stairs, waiving for you all to follow.

Once there, the room had kegs of moderate quality ale, surrounding the room like a wall, and in the center of the room was a large stone table, in the center was a controlled fireplace built into a carved ditch. It radiated warmth and comfort at just the perfect amount, to not swelter. As whoever itnentds to follow starts, Lark would say I'm afraid this'll be where we part ways. I'm gonna go to the manor, live there, and write the tales of your exploits. I don't quite know why, but in the back of my head, there's a voice saying if I continue with you right now, I'll die. So I'll take the prudent route and stay alive to weave the tales you write. it was an honor to travel with you all, an to meet those we only recently met. I apologize for my silence up till now, but this decision wasn't one easily made. I bid you all Adieu. Bowing, Lark made his way out of the tavern with a smile, taking one long breath, before making his way up to see just how 'renovated' the mansion truly was.

A weathered eye passes over the gathered throng, but gave little in the way of active interest. Only the food on some tables held his attention for long. That, and any negative looks directed at his goblin charges. The fact the trend from outside in reaction to their presence embolden at least one spirit. Further mollified, if not by the news of payment, then by the work put into the manor, Paavu followed along with less tension in his shoulder. And while he still carried mix feelings about the manor, being only able to recall snippets about it from the last time in town, the mouth stayed shut on the matter.

An excited Dot immediately followed after Sildar. The moment some secret room got open up, a long held love compelled her forward. No surprise to Gwen and Rose, having had to pull her ass out of danger from chomping at the bit too much to explore the once hidden, and suss out secrets. Thus, it would come as even less of one seeing her tap on several walls within the hidden room and stomping her foot in certain places to find even more secrets!

Meanwhile....

"Hildesh." Paavu spoke curtly in [Giant]. Yue freezes at the drop of the hat, and to the chargin of her riders, barely gives them time to adjust to her laying down on the spot. "A moment, little green... Lark." He continues in [common]. If anyone else lingers, he offhandedly waves them on into the room. At least, he did so for the more confused or less intent on bidding goodbye to the goblin. Paavu kneels to be more on eye level with the goblin. "For all you've done for us, you have this one's thanks, and if need be in the future, whatever arms I might bear against your enemies as due repayment." This he states in tone akin to a vow. "And I apologize for begging one -- or perhaps even two final boons from you. But, I would beg a boon of you." He asked in [Goblin] before gesturing to Piyu and Bobora. "Might Paavu ask you allow them stay at the manor. Not as guest, of course, but as paid servants. Until at least such a time they seek employ elsewhere, or leave for... greener pasture." Paavu, who had towards the end taken off his helmet, cracked a grin.

"They will need your guidance at first, but... Paavu has faith in them." He turns to the duo. "That is, if you two are willing as well. To be servants, instead of slaves until you yourselves find better lives. Or, might you stay with Paavu? Become like squire? Underling taught ways of War, in other words. The road forward will be a dangerous one if so. And Paavu will protect, as much as able... But only guarantee, is that Paavu make certain you are prepared to defend or carve out your own path in future. And never be bullied again." He says to the duo.

Whether they ultimately agree or not, Paavu's attention returns to Lark, questioning him politely on the Staff he always seemed to carry. And if magical, might the group at least borrow it for the next leg of their journey; for a time, at least.

Rose too got excited by the revelation of a secret room, but compared to Dot she seemed calm. Dots excitment made her laugh a bit as she remembered some of the prior shenanigans the group had gotten in because of her excitment. Ja'Ree would stick close to Dot, making sure she did not accidentally damage something in her search and keep an eye on the strangers. While he trusted that they meant no harm, he was wary about doing deals in secret lairs. Once Rose felt the warmth of the fire though she sighed with relief, having never been so happy to be indoors. Rose gladly ate and drank her fill while listening to the two speak but only half listening to what they had to say. Her attention was however fully drawn to Lark who had been suspiciously quiet up until now.

I understand Lark. I'm sure we will still be seeing you from time to time. And I think Paavu is right, if you would be willing to take on these two lovely ladies, I'm sure they will find living in a manor to be preferable to being some slave. Rose gets closer and leans into to speak quietly to the Goblin. Just don't fall victim to their womanly charms eh? Rose elbows Lark in her classic "way to hard" manor she is known for. But in all seriousness my friend, it was a pleasure to travel with you. I'm sure whatever my Lady has in store for you from here on out that it will bring only good things.

Rose would give Lark a hug, squeezing too tight of course, before letting him go to do whatever it is he planned on doing. Once Lark had left Rose would turn her attention to Sildar and ask So what did you need to discuss with us?

Burgee stands stunned for a moment.  The opening of the secret passage, and then some mention of a mansion, and Lark now retiring to said mansion. He thinks back, only a few days prior, but seemingly months ago before he turns to Lark.  "I sir, am not quite sure what to make of all of this, but your part in our journey and the help given along the way shan't be forgot. If you ever be in need of service, I will give to you what I can." He looks towards the others. "But I'm afraid I am at a loss as to what mansion everyone seems to be referring to. I hope it brings you comfort, and that I may one day get a chance to visit."  He takes a look at the goblins, and back at Lark. "Hope these two earn the trust given. But surely you do a great service being an example for them." He pats Lark on the shoulder as he heads down behind Rose, "Now did someone mention ale?"

Finding himself below with kegs a plenty, Burgee pours himself a draught and and pulls himself a chair up near the fire near Gundren and Sildar. "So what is it that requires this?" he asks waving at the secret room around them.

Cirrus has sat down at one of the tables, poured himself a cup of that fine dwarven brandy he found. He has not had any of it, he is just sitting, thousand yard stare on his face. He can hear what Gundren is saying, but is more absorbed in his own thoughts than the words of the dwarf who simultaneously with is and is not the man he took that job from in Neverwinter.

postingting

Dot and Rose head in almost immediately, dot seeking further secret entrances or secrets but finding nothing but solid wood to meet the raps of her fingers. Lark pausing in his retreat as Paavu forces him to. And after hearing the Goliath out, Lark ponders for the moment, scratching his chin at the requests. Then looking at the glass-colored staff he had kept under wraps, likely why Cirrus had yet to see the staff. And looking to Paavu, with reticence and reluctance at relinquishing the relic... before finally giving it up. I hope you know I was intending to frame that and hang it like a trophy over the hearth! But fine! I realize you guys may need it more than I need a trophy. I've been studying it quietly in our downtime, and the staff seems to give off a slightly blinding aura to enemies of it's wielder, providing them with a better chance to not being attacked. And when the weilder senses they may need just a bit more, they can summon its Glass Aura around them for a bit more. Though when in immediate trouble, it has a hidden spell weaved in to react to things... it can create a temporary shield around you. Its more practical for a caster though.

As for your two charges.... Sure I'll civilize them, but they might just fall for my green charms! Hoho! -However we shall see what can be done with them. I'm sure Salazar has already moved himself inside. And you can have my payment. I doubt as a hero of the town I'll be needing it much to gain boons, that I couldn't charm out if need be! Besides, if i claim my room now, I get to have whatever one I want! As for "Slaying my enemies" I appreciate the sentiment big guy. I'll be sure to weave the tale into something more spectacular and thrilling. But better get to your meeting, before it starts without you. I'm sure they won't keep the door open long if they're suing a secret room in the first place.

C'mon ladies, lets show you your new home.

Piyu and Bobo follow complicitly, not giving Paavu a response, as they follow along behind Lark who begins leaving after giving Paavu one final bow and some customary farewells. Before spinning on heel to respond to Rose And don't worry, if anything they'll fall for mine. But I have no intention of bunkering down. You all take care out there. And yes, assumign you don't die, I hope to see you all often. But please, if yo udo die, don't visit... I'm not overly fond of spirits that I can't drink!

And Burgee... you're more than welcome to live there. It was gifted to us for killing all of the redbrands afterall. And you may not have taken part but our troupe grows by the tenday it seems.

Gundren and Sildar have taken seats at the 'head' of the table. Sildar having worn his newer armor, still not having his older armor. Gundren, still in his 'blanket-clothes' having had no time, nor overall care to change them yet as business was to be had.

Stella coming through the door just before it closes once everyone is finally inside, bringing hot bread, fresh out of the oven. Here is your starter to hold you all over. I will be bringing traditional breakfast items down to you all soon. Are there any special requests? both Gundren and Sildar shake their heads 'no.' Her eyes linger on Cirrus' coat before finally leaving after taking any special requests if there were any.

Waiting until Stella left the room through another door that likely led straight to the kitchen. 

Well, to answer your question ... We can't exactly speak of this openly. Only a few know of our true mission, and others finding out leads to more Glasstaves and Black Spiders. So we brought you to our meeting room in Phandalin. I mean no offense, but We thought this much would be obvious.

What Sildar is tryna say is... at this point, Gwen takes her seat with a tall mug of ale, biting down on her bread hungrily, but feminine. And he doesn't know this yet, but without the map, our plans are stalled. And I didn't have the foresight to try to memorize it afore hand. And as some of you are somewhat in the know already, and ye did save me life. Which I appreciate you making sure  have at-least one friend remaining. And some of you seem to not understand the importance of this entire project. he said with mild annoyance in his tone. And I mean no disrespect.

He truly doesn't. However, Gundren has been working on this his entire life, ever since he became an adult. This is  quite literally his lifes work. And gundren is nearly four hundred years old. Aye. It took me nearly three huindred years to find that map, so hopefully ye can understand why i'm a bit upset it was allowed to slip away without a fight. I'd rather have risked dying to keep it than lose it to some drow slut and her spider master.  But what's done is done. So we need to face forward.

Obviously, losing more than three hundred years of effort is going to dock your reward even fer savin me life.But should ye redeem yerselves on the backend, and fix the wrong, We'll not only pay ye what was promised, we'll pay ye significantly more. Sildar...

Yes. I can't recall if I told you about all this, but the map leads to the Lost Mines of Phandelver. The place this town was named after. As part of a pact between most of the civilized races centuries ago. Leading to an economic boon in the area, as well as the crafting of powerful magical items, enchantments, and other scorcerous affairs that benefited everyone. owever, that same power in the wrong hands. Hopefully you all have heard enough fairy tails to understand where I'm going with this.

As such, we intended to discover the place ourselves, bring it back to functionality, and then with the help of the Lords Alliance to guard it until a new Pact can be formed with peace-minded folk. To recap, this would be the greatest rediscovery, in modern history that could lead to a new golden age for many many people. As well as be mine and Sildars greatest mark on the history of the world. As well as yours, if ye assist. 

But it also means ye have tae put the mission fist and quit letting the most integral pieces fall into enemy hands. Sure I understand that ye didnae know it at the time. Butt sometimes you have to sacrifice the king to save the queen. And I would rather have died than let the map fall into the Black Spiders hands - And  Sildar would have understood and continued in me place.

About hat Actually.... I am required to report back to the Lords Alliance in Waterdeep as soon as this meeting is over. However I will strive to return as swiftly as I can. 

Ah, I see.... Well you would have continued it, just with a delay. So Me point still stands. Regardless. Hopefully the gravity of all this is upon ye now. Especially as bad people now posess the roadmap to one of the most powerful places in the region, that would grant them nearly untold powers. And ye decided it best to move away from them instead of pursuin... Thus giving them potentially an even greater lead than they had before. So if ye choose tae embark on this and expect to be paid more than the 'Saving Gundren' reward, I expect ye all tae leave no later than sunrise the next morning. And if ye think I have no reason tae be irate, then you've not been paying very close attention. Either way, Sildar, their fees. Perhaps it will calm their tits.

Indeed. And apologies for his anger but I too feel it's justified, as .. if they do find it before we do, every death they cause, will be directly due to your decisions. But  for one am happy too still have a living breathing friend. And I've taken that into consideration. And I feel this is your just reward.

He pulls out a massive bag of gold coins, laying it out on the table. And though some of you weren't here at the hiring, you did still assist in the rescue. Five hundred each for the rescue of my friend Gundren. You found no information on Wave Echo Cave which is the Lost Mine itself, unless I've misunderstood Gundren, as the map is the location - SO nothing for that. You routed the redbrands, discovered Glasstaff was my other lost friend... and free'd Phandalin from their grasp. But I've already awarded you for that.

And lastly, it seems you've slain everyone, including Grol at the castle. SO.... Here is your sum.

He hands everyone at the Table except Gwen, Dot, and Ja'ree 1250 GP each. Unfortunately, as the three here were also prisoners, they cannot be compensated for simply tryign to protect their lives. As their intent was to survive, not anything else.

Gwens eye twitched a bit But we still helped fight! And we still helped save your friend! You're just being cheap! Gundren clearing his throat. Oh Aye, ye did help, but it was only natural that you'd fight to save yerself. And ye only helped after most of the combat was done by these fine folks. Its "Somehting you would have done with or without the promise of reward" And if I heard you rightly, you have a ten carrat sittin where we're already going. So if ye want your boon, atleast one of ye three must assist with this. In fact I'd suggest only one of ye. So make yer choice of which of ye three will be going with the rest of your group. As Sildar told me  while we waitied here for ye all to come in, that this town was in need of protection, and may as well get the other two former prisoners to assist there seeing as Sildar will be leaving.

"'Tain't that we don't understand mind ye,"  Burgee starts, sounding like an old hardened sailor. "An' it ain't about the money neither you see. That's most appreciated, it is." His chair scratches along the floor as he pushes it back and then stands to address the two firmly, "But we may not ought to have let the wench go with the map, had that information been apprised more thoroughly whence we last set out!" His emotions were starting to get away from him and a breeze spread outward as he spoke.

He cleared his throat and shook his body down to his tail before retaking his seat. "Forgive the emotions if you would please sirs," he adds quickly in a very distinguished voice, "All I mean to point out is that if you would be so kind as to arm us with all of the information this go round, we will do our utmost to return successful on all counts."

While not exactly the departure the Goliath had secretly hoped for, the man bid the trio a goodbye with two fingered salute, then turned to eventually take his seat. An increasingly more dutiful Yue followed suit, taking a seat at Paavu's side, and allowing the aged half-giant to idly pet her head while observing things. He nods his 'thanks' to Stella when she came in with bread, and would have begun devouring it on the spot, if not for the tension in the air. So, he let it sit for a time, and set his helmet over it to try and trap the heat loosely within it.
 
Before the meeting officially starts, he gives Cirrus a long and almost sympathetic look. But once things began, his expression hardens into mask of calm. 'No disrespect indeed' Paavu thought, as he felt some of the earlier resentment begin to build up once more. Aside from folding his arms across his chest, he would continue to listen without a word; occasionally tapping his fingers against an arm whenever a spike of anger or annoyance near gets the better of him.

And it very nearly did several times throughout the chastising, even though much of the blame lay upon the dwarf's own shortcomings in more ways than one. Even the mass of coin being /eventually/ put forth only just mollified the goliath to bite back some choice words to the end. That, and as he had come to realize during the trip, the "new" directive meant another opportunity to face a potentially far stronger foe. That is, assuming the so called well of power and potential wealth even still held it, let alone the Drow having more at their disposal. Either way, it was enough for to crack a small grin over it before assuming the stern facade once more.

"So, acquire the information or at least a lead, kill whatever agents we find, and then report back.... ah... Right... You said we before, so you will be accompanying us as well on this next leg of the journey." Paavu stated more than asked, but looked as if awaiting an answer all the same. Plus, in perhaps some small way, he hoped to distract a bit more from Burgee's outburst, justified thought it was in its own way. Whether confirmed or denied, a nonplussed Paavu turns to Sildar next. "Before you go. Your friend made mention of taken armor. Is this that of the Sildar?" Paavu slides plate and helm to the side and sets on the table the recovered armor and longsword bearing the crest.

As Sildar is inspecting that, he turns back to Gundren and asks, "Do you know anything of Thundertree? Or might it best be we ask around?"

Dot, throughout all of it, appeared ever on the verge of passing out within half of minute of the discussion. She was a Tortle of action generally, so an exaggeration and overall lengthy talk -- while perhaps interesting in some ways -- usually went in one air and out the other, or boiled down quickly enough in mind for her to tune out the rest. She at least did snap to attention at Gwen's shouting, and even mirror any agitation, if only out of solidarity. But the reminder of their fortune quickly appeased the fighter, and prompt her to even gently pat/guide the upset elf into a huddle with Ja'Ree to discuss things going forward.

She briefly pauses to give Rose a look and see if she might join in as well, like old times. No matter the choice, she smiles and nods understandingly before return to the huddle. As a quiet acolyte of selune herself, the Tortle perhaps understood better than the other two the need to focus on grander picture of things.

Rose shared Burgees frustrations but bit her tongue for now as she listened. The payment was secondary to her, but her pride was struck at the chastising. Afterall they had been hired to rescue the Dwarf, not retrieve a map they didn't know about until it was already gone. Rose still pockets the gold nonetheless, and only once everyone else has said their piece does she speak up. 

Your precious map will be back in our hands before you know it Gundren. Though I agree with Burgee, this time you should tell us everything we need to know first, seeing as none of us are mind readers. But Selûnes path is clear. The Drow will fail and the map will be returned. It can be no other way, so don't fret too much about it. When Rose sees Gwen and Ja'Ree being pulled into the huddle, she whispers to Burgee I'll be right back. 

Getting up from her seat Rose walks over to the group and joins in the huddle, speaking in hushed tones. What's up? What are all your thoughts on this?

It sounds like this Dawrf is trying to short you on payment. 

Besides the obvious Ja'Ree.

That the drow probably has our loot?

Rose sighs realizing she's only going to get jokes from the cat and looks to Gwen and Dot for their opinions.

Dot cannot help but smirk at Ja'ree's answers. But once Rose turns to her and Gwen, she shares a look at the elf, communicating something within it and a small and seeming offhanded gesture along the lines of 'Should you or I?' Ultimately, she looked back to Rose and offers the rarest treat; the smoky voice of the Tortle. "Only one of us go. Other two stay. Protect dwarf in case other agents come. Maybe even work out deal for partial ownership of mines. Maybe root out spies." 

The last sentence brings a twinkle to her eyes, and a broad grin. In spite of the Tortle's relatively simple minded approach to most problems, her fondness of secrets did not end at places and objects alone. Although if left to her own devices, there would likely be a few people in town sporting bruises from her sometimes... aggressive approach.

Rose considers things for a moment. Dot was always nice to have in a fight but she was....well she was no bard when it came to to having a conversation. Ja'Ree, despite his earlier mishap, was also good in a fight, a joker, and usually good at improvising in rough situations. That said, if it came down to who needed to be left behind to keep Dot out of trouble, Rose preferred Ja'Ree. He had a much better rapport with Dot, seeing as prolonged exposure to Dot with no one else to talk to often drove poor Gwen nuts. Then of course there was her own Bias for wanting Gwen along. She wasn't afraid to admit she wanted Gwen along for more than just being practical.

Her mind being made up Gwen looks to Ja'Ree. Can you and Dot stay here? Keep the cheap Dwarf safe. I'm sure Lark will you stay in the manor for the time being. And uh, keep Dot out of trouble. 

Ja'Ree smiles a toothy grin. Can do Moonbeam. Her head may be as hard as her shell but I'll knock some sense into her if need be. And together? Well your Dwarf won't be cheating you out of payment again! 

Rose smiles and sighs. Leave him be, I don't care about the money.

But I do, He says with a frown. I'm kidding I'm kidding. We'll keep him safe don't worry.

Cirrus is still devoid of any emotion, but occasionally mutters some commentary at certain points. When Gundren says that he would be willing to sacrifice himself to keep the map safe, Cirrus whispers "your wife would thank us for choosing you." When They say the the drow may have gotten away with the time they gave her, he mutters (this time much easier to be heard this time), "I can ask an animal if she's in the area. If nothing, we could try to hurry to Wave Echo Cave and if we're lucky we can intercept her."

A few moments later, he suddenly stands up, the back of his chair hitting the ground. He pulls out a Stone of Farspeech from his pack, and begins shouting into it, "Halia Thornton! This is Cirrus Fujin! I helped stop the Redbrands! You wanted me to spy on Bastille! Do you know who I am?!?"

((OOC - Wave echo cave is the location the map leads to, if you could just go there, there'd be no need for the map XD))

Gundren sighs when Burgee responds, less frustratedly than simply exhausted. Well had we informed ye of our mission from the first afore we truly knew whether you could be trusted or not... for all we knew you were working with the Black Spider. And sending agents of the Black Spider to rescue someone the Black Spider had claimed, would not seem out of the ordinary, while also offering them no information, while had we told you from the start what we knew, we may very well have armed our enemies with information they might not already posess.

So as ye can see, blabbin our 'life story' as it were to random adventurers who may or may not already be in the employ of our apparent enemies isn't exactly the most prudent way to solve the problem nor prevent future ones. And there isn't much else to tell ye that our speil didn't already say.

The long n' short of it, is this; Finding the Lost Mines of Phandelver will both revive this town tae its former glory. Provide leaps and bounds into enchantments and sorcery to combat the ever encroaching evils that plague this world (So long as we find it first) The only known way to find this cave is with the map - the one that was stolen. And the one we walked away from.

While Gundren is being quite harsh, and you all claim to understand, We can both very clearly hear the ire at the tongue lashings you're recieving. Because you don't like being chastised. But neither do children like their shame brought to light, nor the punishments that usually follow. And you're acting very much like children. No offense. But let me once more remind you of whats at stake here;

The mines that have been lost to time for hundreds of years, that, for whatever reason, is capable of creating various magical items and artifacts. In the right hands, this can be a tool for the greater good, if protected, and the pact is kept. While in the hands of even a lowly criminal can create chaos beyond imagining.Let alone if it were to fall into the hands of someone with more power than most already posess. Say, a necromancer or a lich... can now arm his armies with enchanted items.

And here the lot of you are, upset that we're upset with you. Even despite this failure.... We've payed you quite Handsomely. Between those of you who were payed, you've received nearly a barons ransom for a reward despite it. You all have a chance to be part of the greatest discovery of this entire age. And you're honestly the only people we can trust outside of ourselves with this. We may have gotten off on the wrong foot but our anger is just as justified as you feel yours is. 

And no, I will not be joining you. I hid it well but i have several broken bones and severed appendages. I'll need time to heal, since i'm not dead. And Sildar already has his own business to deal with back in Waterdeep. And yes, that's more or less the length of it. Get the map, or failing that, find out where the cave slash mine is. And seek it out before the other 'faction' finds it. And NO there's no implication behind 'faction.' 

So by that, we mean, locate the cave, and solve this puzzle before reporting back. Don't drop by tae give us a status report. Find the mine. Prevent the Black Spider from doing so himself. Secure it. And lead us to it. Then aside from our rewards, you'll gain renown and fame.

Well, Thundertree is four or five days walk in the direction you came from. My guess be we weren't even a days trip away from it at Cragmaw.... another sigh escaping the dwarf. Used to be a town off the road to the east from the tri-boar trail. 

I heard that lad... And she might, but that's not the point. I love me wife, but my life's work is just as important. And she knows this. And if ye think ye can speak an animal to inform you, be my guest.

And uh.. yes, that is my stolen arms and armor.. I take it it was located with Gundren? Ah shite, I was so caught up in me own troubles I forgot to tell ye....

Both Gundren and Sildar jump when the formerly muttering Air Elemental suddenly shouts out, at what to them, seems no one initially, though they share confused glances the moment he mentions Halia. The propreiter of the Miners guild? How does he know her? they whisper to each other. And after a long, very awkward moment of silence, a response comes through.

Uh.... Yes, this is Halia. No I don't recognize that name. But what I'd like to know more of, is how you're speaking to me through my sending stone, that's very clearly still in my pocket....... I'd like to speak with you about whoever this 'Bastille' is. I assume if you are speaking to me, you know where I can be found. Only Cirrus can hear this, and her tone, was both confused and angry compared to what Cirrus had heard from her before.

Moments later Stella rushes in, looking panicked saying I heard shouting... Is everything allright?

((I guess I assumed that we could find Wave Echo, and the map lead to some secret passage that was inside the cave. Like, if it had a name then we wouldn't need a map to find specifically the cave, or else he wouldn't have dropped the name so casually, as if he was expecting us all to recognize it.))

 Dot snorted and brushed off the bluster. Yet she was content to leave things there with a cocky grin. Seeing no reason to stick around as it looked as if Gundren and Sildar were starting another round dick waggling (from her perspective at least), she wrapped Ja'Ree in a bit of a headlock and "kindly" escorted him out to the bar proper for a less stuffy air.

Meanwhile...

Although Paavu had merely quirked a brow at first, Cirrus immediate suggestion after elicited an owlish blink. However, he hesitated for a second too long, and soon enough is back to looking at Gundren and Sildar, if only out respect. A respect that was quickly waning over the next few moments as the duo chose to berate the help further, rather than leave things be or find a middle ground. While he half-expected it from the dwarf, having fought with and beside plenty enough in his day to know thick headed they could be, as well as the legendariness of their grudges, humans were always a bit...

He had hope for this one based on his bearing. But instead, he found himself lowering his gaze and shaking his head, reminded once more why tried avoid a working relationship with most; especially as even a remote underling. In his younger days, he might've tried snapping the man like a twig for the further and unnecessary insults being masked as more justified chastising at this point; his backing by a larger power, or not.

But there was no honor striking down those whose wounded pride and desperate, if albeit also dogged obsession, compelled their words, and weakened condition would at best leave him the pettiest one. Or at worse, further deepen the reminder of how much --

Paavu just squeezed his eyes shut before letting out a tired sigh. Then as he sucked in a breathe, reading himself to speak once more, Cirrus' shouting even left him shocked for second, and then giving him a dubious look. "All is fine, young one. You may return to your post." Paavu replied to Stella, giving her a small but assuaging smile before having to click his tongue at Yue to stop her from continuing to growl at Cirrus for the shouting. "Paavu presumes /that/ is in regards to your previous woes? If so, let whatever... answer you sought there be the -- as Humans say, final nail in coffin. If wish'th to return to your realm, there is opportunity here. Assuming whatever power these mines supposedly possess remains available to this day, mayhaps you can have something made or powered to send you home." He turns pointedly to Gundren. "A fair reward, would you not say?"

Burgee scoffs as he waves a hand toward the dwarf as if to dismiss him before standing. He lowers his head to Paavu and whispers, "I'll gladly help you crush him," as he walks by. But to the rest of the room he simply gives silence as he walks to a tap to refill his flagon. He then finds a corner of the room as far from Gundren as he can, trying to calm himself and repress the storm beginning to rumble within.

He stands there examining one of the symbols on his driftwood staff. After a few sips of the ale, his nerves settle once more and he walks back to the table but remains silent because he knows the thoughts in his mind should not currently be shared.