4) Undermountain: The Beholders Key

[Blazeguard]

"It might be a good idea if we all go along. Who knows if any other members of the Band of the Hand are just waiting in ambush to get their hands on this wretched weapon. I won't rest easy until I KNOW it has been destroyed."

[Hywaywolf]

"Lets take care of this mess first, and I will go along to the temple."

Oypeen will then take everything of value from the dwarf including armor and any other weapons besides the mace. What is there here of interest?

[dymondy2k]

I'm sure my order will have the means to destroy it...

[Jandolar]

While helping remove the armor and other accessories from the dead dwarf Kallas looks to Hermia. He probably wouldn't have told you anything of value. My guess is that he took that mans life because the man failed at whatever task was set before him. The Band doesn't take well to failure. Looking closely at the armor Kallas offers to purchase it and the shield from the company. That's good dwarven plate he had on, minus the dent I put in the breast plate it's still serviceable and I know an armorer who can pull that dent pretty easily. If you plan to sell it at least give me first option.

After having removed everything and going through it there are a few gold pieces (13) and not much else. Of note is that Talpyn didn't have the trademark tattoo that the others have had.

(DMs note: It is now well past midnight, the temples of all major deities never truly close so you can all head over now or wait till the morning.)

[LibraryLass]

I think we've been in enough fights lately that crawling around the city in the middle of the night sounds like a bad plan... on the other hand we don't want to have that mace around any longer than strictly necessary.

[Woe]

"Very well. I will wait until you are all ready." In the meantime, Ravoneth will ask the nearest bartender/server/bouncer the directions to the Temples of Tyr and Lathander.

[Hywaywolf]

Oypeen looks around to the others to see which way the wind is blowing. "Looks like we agree to wait til morning. I also feel it would be useful for someone to cast detect magic on this armor and other weapons to see if anything else is magical."

[Jandolar]

Durnan gives Ravoneth directions to the nearest Temple, it's only about 10 blocks from the inn.

As the companions start to head out Durnan mentions that it might be best to at least leave the mace down in the store room. He has the only key and will wait till Ravoneth comes to get it in the morning if that's ok.

The CoS, tired from the days ordeal retires to their suite of rooms for some well deserved rest. The night oddly enough is restful and free of disturbance. Each member dreams of better days in youth and greater days to come as a traveling company of heros.

They sleep late and are all awake about the same time just before the mid day meal. There is little noise from the tap room below although there is some conversation, muted, to be heard. Gathering their gear and heading downstairs the company is rather surprised to see that there isn't an empty seat in the massive room that makes up the Inn of The Yawning Portal, well no empty seat save the table that they usually sit at. That table is set as if for a banquet, a white table cloth covers the beaten surface, six fine padded chairs (two taller ones for the halflings) circle it while fine table ware is placed in each spot. Two buxom serving maids and one well build serving man stand ready.

The entire crowd is silent as the Carnage of Steel steps from the stairs to the oaken floor. Muttered word of admiration come from some as they make their way to the table. Sayings such asGood morning Master Opyeen and Well met Great Way Adept are mixed in with Praises be upon you Mighty Giovanni and Master Rykken along with a heartfelt Keep your ink dry and your path clear Most Exhaulted Hermia and Maephina.

At the bar stands a smiling Durnan in his best leather and chain armor. Flanking the bar keep Kallas Grimsbeard stands grinning, his beard trimmed and his chain mail oiled and shining.

As the companions take a seat the room lightens a bit and conversation sprouts up in small pockets, every muttered word speaks of the Carnage of Steel and every eye is turned towards them in admiration.

The entire crowd of the inn smells of one thing. Respect.

The meal is well served and beautifully prepared, ale and wine flows as wanted and several patrons take the opportunity to step up and buy a round or offer a word of praise and thanks. Many hint at wanting to join such an austere group although, as is the custom, none openly ask.

At one point Durnan stops by to shake hands with each of the members and assure them that all is well in hand and that the mace is still below. He lays a note upon the table that reads
If ever you are in need feel free to contact me or my associates.
Mirt

Kallas also stops by to make an offer of 1000 gold for the plate mail and to openly toast to the good health and continued success of the group, as he departs he is immediately set upon by other people in the tavern who seem to be willing to be friends with someone who actually knows the CoS by name.

[LibraryLass]

Hermia and Mae practically exhaust themselves shaking hands and answering questions, getting to know as many new people as possible. Hermia keeps an eye out for people that might be worth inviting to adventure with them sometime. Mae keeps an eye out for people who will buy her a slice of cake instead of a drink. Well, okay, Hermia does too, but she's subtler about it.

[dymondy2k]

Giovanni looks torn between pressing the flesh and talking about the good works and the delicios smells wafting from the table... He finally gives in and sits down to eat..