Fellowship of the Dice

The hobbit listens with growing reservation as Aghan-buri-mughan say his piece. Looking at Blain and then in turn each of the other members of the company replies. "I have traveled all this way with you for one purpose. To find this colony and discover what happened to Fundin. Although this could be the end of our journey, I will accompany you into the halls beyond this door, if that is where you feel you must go, Master Blain."

"I will go," says Telurin. "Let him shut us out. Never be it said that Elves stood cowardly behind, though there was no chance of return."

With these last words Telurin looks at Hartley and the Hobbit can briefly see a faint smile on the Elf's lips. It was clear, whether true or not, that he believed the Chief would not ultimately seal them in to their death, if the company somehow succeeded and the dead sent to rest.

Halleth nods at the words of Aghan-buri-mughan and then stands straighter, as he says, "I am a Ranger of the North. It is our duty to fight the forces of Shadow and protect the people of the soft lands, as you put it so well. I will go in. Close the door behind us if you must. We will find our own way out once we have put the Shadow within the mountain to rest."

Dubhthach speaks for the first time since the conversation started, "I will join you as well. Although we have not known each other for long, we have fought together, and you have shown great assistance to one of my people. I will go with you."

Buoyed by the show of support from his fellow companions from the different groups of Free People, Blain casts his gaze upon Aghan-buri-mughan with a penetrating gaze of more assurance than before.

"Though it is not your wish, these people from other lands and folk desire to walk with us into the Darkness, knowing full well it may be their doom. How can you but acknowledge their loyalty and bravery? Does not being of the Free People mean that all are free to choose their own destiny? So, will you let us pass beyond the doors together? You of course are free to shut it behind us, for that is your prerogative and responsibility to protect your own and these lands from harm. But we ask that you not seal the doors no sooner than the rise and fall of the sun thrice."

The Chieftain of the Pukel-men is moved by your show of support, and he unfolds his arms. "Friendship is a bond I can not deny. It is your choice son of sons to take them with you, or not to. I will not stop you or them."

He considers the last statement, "Three rising of the Sun, then the door is sealed forever. Knock three sets of three times, and I shall know it is you, and determine if you are able to exit. I wish you the favor of the Mountain. Delay no longer. Go before my mind becomes the wind and changes."

Telurin sees the likeness of the Dwarf Lords of Old for a moment in the countenance of Blain. He thinks the Chieftain has seen it as well, and nods grimly at his reply, for he knows now there is no turning back, and that there may be no return to the lands of the Sun.

He turns to the other Dwarves, "Grab some rails from the cart. We will have need of many torches." He checks to see that his box of flint and tinder is in its place. He had his lamp of course, but preferred to not use it until it was necessary.

Halleth bows slightly and says to Aghan-buri-mughan, "Thank you. I wish that the Rangers of the North had more dealings with your folk, for you are honorable and hardy, worthy of respect, unlike many of the free peoples who hide away where it is safe." That said, he moves to help the others gather the necessary supplies for their expedition.

Hartley sets about making preparations for the trip beneath the mountains. His heart is full of trepidation and yet, this was the purpose that had brought him here, and he would see it through, whatever the result, although he hoped to feel the warmth of the sun on his face three days hence.

Dubhthach goes to Airic. For a moment, he looks down at the wounded Dunlending with an inscrutable expression, then turns and helps the dwarves prepare to descend into the mountain.