Berrin Myrdal's page

As I said, Berrin will try to approach Borodin over the years, how Borodin reacts is up to Borodin but I'm open up to friendship even if Berrin views him as an oddity at the moment (he's from the future!? Crikey!) 'till he's had a chance to wrap his head around timetravel.

Zander will remain a good friend and drinking buddy, a confidant as was established in New Beginings though with his current NPC status I don't know how much I can build on that.

I see Zander-Akiros-Berrin spending a lot of time together coordinating and planing defenses and tactics.

Berrin and Akiros have reached some understanding between each other despite Akiros's rigid nature and Berrin's roguish one. They both know that each has Newhaven's best interest at heart and I can see them becoming fast friends if Akiros is onboard with that. They have so much in common that I see opportunities for friendly rivalries everywhere (swordplay, horseback riding, how much their babies weigh and how old they were when they said 'Dada'). As too setting laws, Berrin will oppose Akiros just as staunchly as he opposes Verik if he pushes for something that Berrin sees as 'too much'.

As of this battle Berrin has officially taken a liking to Nikolai and I imagine they'll frequent the same watering holes (I'm trying to get into business with his soon-to-be cohort right?) I don't know how open and free they'll be to each other though, Nikolai has shown himself to be a serious man with a lot on his mind and Berrin is simpler and more care-free I think. I'm open to forming friendship though as to the darkest timeline, after having read the scrolls Berrin will subconsciously grow to be wary of Nikolai and look for signs of mood swings or his slipping into evil but mostly he will be looking for ways to not die when they battle the Winter Queen.

Berrin will go to Elsir to try and wrap his head around this timetraveling business, to discuss the pathfinders knowledge of fey, how to battle them and most of all; how to resist them.

As for Verik-Berrin personal relationship growing colder, Berrin will mourn the loss of it if it comes to that. He will visit with Verik and try to get him drunk on occasion too and carry on like nothing had changed 'till he's given clear signs that their relationship isn't what it was.

Riding slowly through the throng of men a wave of relief washes over the general and a satisfied smile plasters itself on his face, the battle was over and he was still alive. Looking over those he was riding with his eyes come to rest on Aylene and he amends his thinking, they were still alive. Staring at Aylene a good spell as they finish their leisured ride to the bridge Berrin is quick to dismount and rush over to Aylene before she dismount, grabbing her by the waist he lift her, armor and all, clear of her horse and puts her down facing him, earning a pleasant quip from Aylene he pulls her close and kisses her deeply, drawing hoots and whistles from the body of men and smiles from the armored knights.

Releasing Aylene from a long kiss he leans in and whispers "I love you." into her ear before turning to the now ordered army as Verik speaks to them. Listening to his words Berrin runs through the battle again in his mind, reliving briefly the terror and desperation and the hate and anger he had felt in those brief moments that had felt like an eternity. As Verik calls Berrin to the stage Berrin face screws up in shock and his first instinct is to turn and run, public speaking had never been his calling, he had given talks but now?

As the waves of cheers wash over Berrin and the look in the soldiers faces register in Berrin's mind, the feeling of elation comes back to him and he strides forward with both fists in the air and roars at them, drawing a resounding reply, filled with that victorious elation, from the men. Grinning, Berrin can't help a swell of pride as he looks over the army. Who would have believed it? A fighting force, strong and disciplined, men who fought of an army of monsters, under his command. Berrin's old Sergeant must be turning in his grave right now, Berrin assumed he was dead anyway. Gritting his teeth he pumps his fists a few times, drunk on victory and pride.

When the roaring and cheering has gone on for some time Berrin lowered one hand and opened up the other, calling for silence with a somber face. Letting the noise die down Berrin waits a few moments, making sure he has their attention before speaking. Lowering his hand he draws a deep breath, spreads his legs, puts his hands behind his back and sticks out his chest, standing tall before the army.

"Men, of Newhaven!" he begins, his voice echoing over the crowd. "Soldiers, of Newhaven! Defenders, of Newhaven!" looking over the gathered he sees his pride reflected in every face he sees. "The day is won! We have won! The enemy is routed, their leaders dead. We have answered the evil that came knocking on Newhavens gates and. We. Have. WON!" stepping forward he punches a fist in the air and near screams the last, drawing a cheer from the crowd Berrin starts pacing back and forth, waving his hands and inciting another round of wild cheering.

"Look at him!" he says pointing at Hargulka. "You did this! You joined this army to defend your homes, you trained and you trained, you fought dragons and now you've marched miles to meet monsters in the field and routed them. Each and every one of you lot! You rose to the challenge. You claimed your right to live on these lands as free men. You have made a statement. You have said; We will not be bullied! We will not cower! We will stand up and fight for our home! You did this. You. You. And you!" pointing a finger for emphasis another cheer runs trough the army. Berrin lets it run it's course, grinning at the soldiers. This was good. This was perfect. The day was theirs, but then, a shadow still loomed over them.

Growing somber he raises his hands again for silence, calming the cheering. Unsure how to proceed he knew that there was still much work to be done.

"But..." he says, raising a finger, "...all is not done. Newhaven was founded to be a beacon of hope, a place were goodly folk of all races could start a life anew, a land of opportunity and peace. But some do not see our ideals as something to follow, nurture and encourage. Some see us as a thorn, sticking in their sides, pawns to be used for their own ends. You see, Hargulka had a master, just as the dragons had Choral he had a Queen, the Winter Queen. A wicked fey witch, bent on overrunning us, bent on Newhavens, and all of Brevoys, subjugation. They are at odds, those two, Choral and the Winter Queen. They seek to destroy one another as much as we seek to be free of their conflict." Suddenly dry in the mouth Berrin puts his hands on his hips and surveys the men. The mood had grown somber.

Looking at them for a few moments Berrin draws his greatsword and gently puts the tip into the dirt, holding it before him. "I have fought for many years now for this country, we all have.." Berrin gestures behind him, encompassing the founders, "..and you know that we work day and night to ensure Newhavens growth, stability and survival. So.. I put my sword before you. This is my sword, the sword taken of the Stag Lords corpse at the battle of Stagfall, before he was raied to redemption by our first founder, Jemini, before he became Nikolai Rogarvia, the Dragon Lord, our champion. This is the sword I raised to fight off the dragons, this is the sword that brought Hargulka to the ground. This is my sword and this is my promise to you, this is my boast; I will not rest, none of us will, till both Choral and the Winter Queen, along with any other evil that threatens Newhaven, in whatever form it takes, lies buried in the ground, dead. Now.." Berrin yanks the sword up from the ground and sheathes it, steps over to Hargulka's corpse and gives it a kick. "..drag this sorry carcass and those of his lieutenants up onto that bloody ridge and string them up for all to see. Let this be the last job you do before we head back home as victors, let their bodies serve as a warning to those who would enter Newhaven with evil intent, let them serve as a testament to the mettle of the men of Newhaven." Having given the order Berrin finds himself at a loss for more words, looking over to Aylene Berrin heads back into the crowd of the founders to find Valnyr's reins and Aylenes hand to hold.

Loyalty Roll DC 43: 1d20 + 32 ⇒ (16) + 32 = 48

With his left over gold and the amount missing to be equal to the WBL Berrin will ask Verik to enchant his greatsword with the thundering ability (the sword will become known as Berrin's Boast) and have a mwk. composite longbow (+4 str) crafted for himself, leaving him with 96 gp, 6 sp and 3 cp change.

Following the wisps fall with his bow, looking down an arrow nocked and drawn to his cheek, Berrin releases a breath he'd been holding when Verik whoops and flies back to Borodin. Relaxing the arrow Berrin's world seems to slow down as Elsir's magics leave him, blinking a few times he feels almost lethargic as his thundering heartbeat slows down and he seems to sag a little.

Tearing off his helmet a wide grin is spread out on his face and he raises the helmet high and cheers for Verik and Borodin as they descend. Greeting them with hugs and claps on the back when they come to inspect Hargulkas corpse.

Tearing his sword from the dead trolls chest Berrin turns to his risen horse and, walking up to the skittish beast, dropping his helmet, sword and bow on the banks of the stream, wades out and embraces the horse in a long, solid hug. "Darn, stupid beast. Don't ever do that again, you hear. You gave me such a fright old boy, scared me to death. It's alright now, it's alright, we won, your safe, your safe." he mutters with his face pressed into Valnyr's neck, patting him as he speaks, calming both himself and the horse in the process.

Well, seeing as Berrin has grown to love each and every one of the founders a "what happens at Council stays at Council" would be the right approach. I read somewhere that Brevic are naturally mistrusting of Adabar and the church and I just thought I'd play on that a bit. That and Verik and Berrin just have a different view on life, Verik being the city raised and Berrin the small-towner who never got a good impression on big cities. Berrin respects Verik the man but doesn't love his god (though he's suitably (dis)respectful), Jhod and Erastil are more down Berrin's lane.

They might have the occasional falling-out in council which will lead to one or both needing to cool off but I'm thinking outside they'll be friends as long as they don't discuss matters they disagree on, maybe some stiffness a day or two after an argument, but a stiffness that thaws quickly.

And, no offence, but Berrin and Aylene would rather call a Pharasmite than an Adabarian to deliver Maegar into the world.

Edit; Oh yeah, btw. I had some thoughts on building a horse ranch myself and use Valnyr for breeding, a family ranch or somesuch, but it didn't sit right with me when I thought of Aylene's reactions to that, hence the knock on the head. Maybe Verik wants to use him on his ranches? Berrin would be on-board to invest in such an endeavor. Berrin would be open to any investments really, as long as they don't touch to close with the running of the army.

Berrin Level up:
Cavalier 3
BAB +1
HP +9
Ref +1, Will +1
SQ: Cavaliers' Charge
Skills; Ride +1, Profession(Soldier) +1, Handle Animal +1, perception +1, sense motive +1, diplomacy +1.
Feats; Weapon specialization (greatsword)

Valnyr Level up;
Natural armor +2
Str/Dex +1
Bonus Trick; Flank
SQ; Evasion

Berrin's 2 year interim

Professional and political
Berrin will first and foremost be pushing for the raising and enlargment of armies, caring not a whit for how the neighbors might perceive it and if asked to comment he'll tell them that 'They'd better get onboard and strengthen their own walls. Chorol is coming and that winter b&*#% too.' He'll invite any ally to come train with Newhaven and push for military alliances and cooperation with all neighbors, Pitax included if given the chance.

He'll push the council for:
The enlargement of Newhaven's First.
The raising of;
Archers.
A unit of rangers (militarize the wardens under Zander as scouts and scirmishers)
Conscript clerics from Verik.
A second army.
The enlargement of the main cavalry.
The raising of a second cavalry (The Generals Own, charged with patrolling the country side, not tax collectors or caravan guards but bandit/monster hunters and law keepers under Akiros).
Restore Candlemere Keep and maintain garrison there.
Wall's for Sanctuary.

He'll work the army non-stop in training and preparation and push for smithies and artisans who can help better outfit the soldiers.

Kingdom wise Berrin will push for;
The expansion of the border to Mivon and Varnhold, roads and a town on the Mivon-Newhaven border (garrison/walls/barraks and a standing army).
He'll push for roads and irigations, mines and quarries anything that produces food, resources or generates revenue to enlarge the army is golden in Berrin's opinion.
He'll oppose Verik's demand for registration of divine and arcane casters just 'cause it dosn't sit right with him that any man should have to register and be monitored by any body of government just for his vocation, he won't mind if the marshal or spymaster keeps tabs but open registration is just a touch to close to violating a mans rights for his tastes.
He'll put gold into the opening of 'Talking Heads' and several other temples to Cayden Cailen (a.k.a. pubs, irking Verik is reward enough but personal revenue is good too). The clerics can fend for themselves and earn their own coin, just rewards for just work, though they'll be welcome into the army if they can show discipline and an affinity for soldiering.

Personal stuff
PC's;
I don't see Berrin forming any deeper, special bond with any PC's than hasn't already been established. He'll probably spend most his time with Zander and Akiros, coordinating with the Marshal and Warden. He'll enjoy the occasional drink with them both, be more accepting of Nikolai and more irked with Verik as his church comes more and more predominant in Newhaven (lawmen? really?) Like all Brevic Berrin has an innate distrust of Adabar (he's after your gold in the end), reveres Pharasma when celebrating life and mourning death and looks to Cayden for the way a man should live. He'll see Elsir as even stranger than Tandlara and will be put off by elves in general until he joins them at a party. Borodin will be an object of interest and he'll study the scrolls Gunderson wrote for his testament, Berrin will try to approach Borodin and try to wean more details from the future; How did he die? How many children did he have? What of Aylene or Maegar?

Relationships NPC's;
Berrin will press Aylene to move to the country when she get's pregnant, pushing a dream of a horse ranch where they could grow food and raise kids, and receives a solid thunk on the head for his efforts and a night on the couch.
Maegar Myrdal is born.

Surprices & Twists;

Berrin's mom shows up, spitting at any offer of support from anyone especially Berrin and the bank. Opens up a bakery after earning gold from selling fresh buns on the market square to by a cart to which led to another cart and a hired hand which grew to a bakery with several employees, their main revenue coming from urchins peddling buns at the city- and castle gates, the market square and the pier. She instantly loves Aylene and young Maegar, fretting over them and shooting Berrin evil eyes in between, she'll be dubious of Berrin, not believing that he's turned his life around, she'll come around eventually if the Winter Queen doesn't get Berrin first.

Round 5, initiative 10
Berrin: hp; 39/62, AC 23/T 14/FF 20/FF-T 11, F+11/R+6/W+2
Conditions: haste, prayer.
Valnyr: hp 21/30, AC 22/T12/FF19, F+8/R+7/W+3
Conditions: none.
FRA: Full-attack: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (7) + 10 = 171d20 + 10 ⇒ (14) + 10 = 241d20 + 5 ⇒ (9) + 5 = 14

Standing his ground Berrin keeps up his relentless volley of arrows, launching three at the will 'o wisp. Two sail wide but one passes through an image, leaving only one floating skull left.

Miss, miss and miss, but Berrin takes out the last image.

Round 5, initiative 10
Berrin: hp; 39/62, AC 23/T 14/FF 20/FF-T 11, F+11/R+6/W+2
Conditions: haste, prayer.
Valnyr: hp 21/30, AC 22/T12/FF19, F+8/R+7/W+3
Conditions: none.
Valnyr MA: Stand up.
Valnyr MA: Move 5' north.
Berrin FRA: Full-attack Wisp: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (14) + 10 = 241d20 + 10 ⇒ (4) + 10 = 141d20 + 5 ⇒ (2) + 5 = 7
One attack within 5 to hit so it takes out an image.

His flesh knitting together under the combined divine energies of Verik and Jemini and the sting of burns fading away Berrin watches in quiet satisfaction as Valnyr's wounds close, his eye stops leaking puss and his once burnt flesh takes on a reddish pink hue and he wakes with a snort.

Obviously soothed by Jemini's presence the warhorse shifts it's bulk and stands up, moving to place it's feet in the soothing chill waters, apparently forgetting the pain it had helped cause him moments before.

With his bow in hand Berrin just quietly takes aim on the wisp and looses three arrows at it with magically enhanced speed, one of it's images winking out as an arrow passes through it.

Round 4, initiative 10
Berrin: hp; 16/62, AC 23/T 14/FF 20/FF-T 11, F+11/R+6/W+2
Conditions: haste, prayer.
Valnyr: hp -2/30, AC 22/T12/FF19, F+8/R+7/W+3
Conditions: unconscious, stable.
FA: Drop sword.
MA: Draw bow.
SA: Shoot wisp.
Bow attack vs. wisp: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (4) + 10 = 14

Suddenly the pain lessens a great deal and Berrin feels a popping sensation in his ears as the ring fades and the noises of combat come back. Looking up he sees the golden remnants of Verik's healing burst fade a way and, looking to the source, sees the wisp.

'Still work to be done.' Berrin thinks grimly, steeling himself and standing up, leaving the greatsword pinning Hargulk'a corpse to the ground he draws his bow and draws an arrow, draws a bead on the now gold-speckled flying skull and releases.

The arrow sails high and to the left, not even coming close to scoring a hit on an image.

Remember guys, if you miss by 5 or less you destroy an image.

Round 3, initiative 10
Berrin: hp; 7/62, AC 23/T 14/FF 20/FF-T 11, F+11/R+6/W+2
Conditions: power attack, haste, prayer.
Valnyr: hp -11/30, AC 22/T12/FF19, F+8/R+7/W+3
Conditions: unconscious, stable.
Valnyr, Stabilization check: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (20) + 4 = 24
Berrin, Ride check DC 20: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (16) + 9 = 25
FRA: Full-attack Hargulka.
hasted attack: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (19) + 15 = 34 THREAT!!
Attack 1: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (10) + 15 = 25 HIT!!
Attack 2: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (19) + 10 = 29 THREAT!!
Crit confirmation 1: 1d20 + 15 ⇒ (3) + 15 = 18
Crit confirmation 2: 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (7) + 10 = 17
Damage 1: 2d6 + 15 ⇒ (4, 6) + 15 = 25
Damage 2: 2d6 + 15 ⇒ (6, 1) + 15 = 22
Damage 3: 2d6 + 15 ⇒ (6, 4) + 15 = 25
72 damage to Hargulka

Berrins jaw clenches to the point of breaking his teeth for the second time in the past 12 seconds, his muscles writhing with agony as electricity courses, again, through his metal encased form. As the wood around him explode into splinters, pinging against his helmet, unheard by his buzzing ears, the world suddenly tilts and Berrin finds himself flying through the air, free from Valnyrs saddle. By some miracle, and no small part to his training, Berrin finds himself half-kneeling on the ground, watching the grass rustle with eeary slowness, gasping for breath, hearing nothing but a steady, high pitched ring. For some reason Berrin's mind draws him a picture of the grass growing in the forest, at peace in it's own existence, unaware and unconcerned with the toils of sentient beings yet no less alive than them all.

Feeling like he's standing in a far away place, not rightly sure if he's here at all, Berrin looks up and sees the twirling form of the Troll King, his massive form moving with unnatural speed and grace, yet somehow slowly as Berrin can see his every tiniest motion, every shift in muscle and small tensions as he shifts his weight, his strikes precise and accurate as he brakes asunder Nikolai's Dragonsbreath and sending the barbarian tumbling to the ground.

Berrin's eyes are drawn to the blade shard tumbling through the air with exaggerated slowness, tumbling end over end, sailing through the air and ending it's travels right in front of Berrin, the still burning shard sticking halfway into the ground.

Looking up and furrowing his brow at the strangeness of it all Berrin glances sideways and sees a smoldering form next him, large with four feet, ending in black nails, brownish colored and covered in fur. The form seemed somehow familiar to Berrin as he examined the smoldering form, it's skin blackened and fur-less in places, bleeding from an eye and it's flesh bare and bleeding all over. Valnyr? The name comes slowly to Berrin and a look of utter confusion crosses his face. Looking back to Hargulka and back to Valnyr reality slowly seeps back into the warriors mind.

His face forming into a mask of utter rage Berrin, his breath coming harder and faster, Berrin rises with an inhuman roar origination from the bottom of his being, filled with all his frustration and anger and aimed at Hargulka.

Coming up with his sword held high in both hands Berrin slashes across the troll kings thigh, nearly tearing the leg off and sending the troll king crashing to the ground, still roaring Berrin brings his sword back in a backhanded swing, tearing a flailing hand clear off the the trolls arm, and twisting the blade in the air, point toward the troll king, Berrin rams the blade with all his might into it's chest, following it through with all his armored weight, driving the blade clean trough and pinning Hargulka to the ground and bringing Berrin down on top of him.

Letting go of his sword Berrin starts pounding away at the troll with his armored fists, bringing them down time and again, beating and beating, screaming in rage with tears running down his face, crawling over the still form Berrin reaches for the throat, grasping it in squeezing, bringing the enormous head up and down, banging against ground, reaching behind the head Berrin grabs a shard of metal sticking out of the ground, a dull heat registers in his hand and a flicker of flame is unseen in Berrin's enraged eyes.

Jamming the metal shard into Harkulkas slack jawed mouth, Berrin pushes with all his might, ramming Dragonsbreath's shard down the troll kings throat with a sizzling and popping sound of meat cooking, before forcing his mouth closed with smoke and the smell of burnt meat rising from his nose.

Oblivious that the king is dead Berrin bangs the head one more time into the ground before collapsing on top of him, exhausted, sobbing, his breath coming in ragged gulps and that high pitched buzz still ringing in his ears.

Spend hero point for extra action, ramming dragonsbreath down Hargulka's throat.

1 round of crit spamming might do the king in...

Round 2, initiative 10
Berrin: hp; 34/62, AC 23/T 14/FF 20/FF-T 11, F+11/R+6/W+2
Conditions: power attack, haste prayer.
Valnyr: hp 16/30, AC 22/T12/FF19, F+8/R+7/W+3
Conditions: Shaken 6/6, prayer.
FA: Guide Valnyr Handle Animal DC 12: 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (6) + 14 = 20
HArgulka AoO vs. AC 23: 1d20 + 18 ⇒ (4) + 18 = 22
SA: Power Attack vs. Hargulka 1d20 + 11 + 2 + 1 + 1 ⇒ (12) + 11 + 2 + 1 + 1 = 27, dmg: 2d6 + 15 ⇒ (5, 4) + 15 = 24

Nearly breaking his teeth as his muscles tense under the electricity coursing through is metal-encased body Berrin jerks around a bit involuntarily, bouncing around in the saddle under the wisps onslaught. Regaining control of his muscle movement Berrin struggles to control Valnyr, the powerful warhorse tensing and preparing to dump Berrin into the river and running off, kicking and screaming, his muscles suddenly freeze under the inhuman howl coming from the troll king. The blood seeps from Berrin's face and he feels Valnyr go rigid under his legs, the warhorse freezing in place at the powerful monsters display of ferocity.

Then hearing Verik's surprisingly soothing voice and the cold seep out of Berrin body he nudges Valnyr forward, vary of the wisp's reappearance, and makes his way along the stream and into melee with Hargulka.

Barely avoiding a heavy swipe of Hargulka's paw, Berrin swings at the massive arm as it swings past, nearly severing it off.

Move to F-G 6-7, Attack Hargulka, hit for 24 damage to Hargulka

Round 1, initiative 10
Berrin: hp; 62/62, AC 27/T 18/FF 20/FF-T 11, F+10/R+5/W+1
Conditions: Total Defense, haste.
Valnyr: hp 30/30, AC 22/T12/FF19, F+7/R+6/W+2
Conditions: None.
FA: Guide Valnyr, double move.
SA: Total Defense.

Clicking his tongue Berrin guides Valnyr forward carefully with his sword out, eyeing the troll, full of suspicion. Taking a round bend past the trees Berrin guides Valnyr through bush toward and into the stream, making his way to the enemy.

Move to occupy I-J 3-4

"Then we'll beat him 'till he stops moving, remove every scrap of jewelry and clothing from his form and then pour acid and fire on the corpse." Berrin replies grimly to Verik.

Slowing Valnyr to a careful approach Berrin eyes the foliage suspiciously, wondering where the troll king might hide his bulk. The end was near, but not in hand, so Berrin was careful. Let Hargulka talk, it might reveal him.

Raising his voice, Berrin addresses Hargulka. "They don't need to ask the dead, plenty live to tell of you folly, Hargulka. Of the thousand you cowed into following you a good sum still breathe to curse your name."

Grinning and joining in with the cheering Berring pumps his fist in the air along with the men Nikolai gives the troll heads too, wondering if he'd be seeing a water hole named 'Talking Heads' with the skulls propped outside as a sign soon. That's what he'd do anyway. Maybe he'd suggest it to someone, maybe push some gold to the persons way and see he couldn't be persuaded to the idea.

Smacking the mounted Akiros on the thigh he grins up at him and gives him a thumbs up, walking up to Verik he claps the priest on the shoulder and tells him he did a good job and to Borodin he offers a 'well done' before nodding to Jem and going back to Valnyr. Nikolai and Jemini might desire to rouse the men, Berrin would and could if he was needed, but now it was not he noted with some satisfaction, moral was high, victory near complete, and men would celebrate for days and nights without any words from him, he knew his silence and his smile would suffice.

Fighting along with the founders was the feeling Berrin had near forgotten, the clear beauty of martial combat, never doubting who was friend or foe, no politicking, just a clear direction of what needed to be done, a singularity of purpose that the whole group partook in without qualms or doubts. Berrin had missed this since the earlier days of hunting bandits and scouting the lands before Newhaven, and so, with a grin on his face, Berrin went to comfort a friend, a friend that had trusted Berrin completely and remained still where Berrin left him to run at the troll, despite his every instinct to panic and lash out, Valnyr stood stock still, rooted to the spot Berrin had left him.

Sensing his approach the mount takes a step toward the warrior as he reaches out to pat it's muzzle and soothe it with his voice.

Turning to Elsir Berrin inquires if Valnyr's eyesight will heal, frowns at the response as he tries to figure out what the hell the elf was talking about, hells, he was even worse than Tandlara sometimes, and finally nods, hoping the answer was positive but staying with the horse and partaking in his joy and returning calm as his eyesight returns.

*************************************

Riding south to hunt for Hargulka Berrin observes the same scene as Nikolai, pausing to view the pursuit he wonders how to calm the centaurs in their bloodlust, score were being settled for certain, and would they even listen to his orders? Turning to Nikolai he gives the only answer that makes sense to him. "My men have their orders and I trust their commanders to see them followed as they can. I have already ordered quarter to be given as I knew Jem would wish it, and I see you are taking more a liking to her thinking, which I hope is a good sign as both your souls rest on that fate, but the centaurs will have to follow their own convictions. They fight with us and for us, but they fight their own kind now and I'm thinking the resentment runs deep. The best we can hope for is that their leader is as wise as ours. We must pursue Hargulka and place our trust in them to do what is right."

*************************************

Reaching the southern edge of the battlefield Berrin wonders if Hargulka has escaped completely, the wilds were wast and the troll king knew them. Berrin could track but with the grass trodden down by thousands of monstrous feet, finding a lone pair of troll footprints would be impossible, even with the footprint book Berrin had lugged around with him since leaving Restov.

Lumbering down from Valnyr anyway Berrin is scaning the mud and completely unaware of the worgs approach until Red Eyes speaks up. Startled at the worgs voice Berrin listens to his report with growing eagerness, they'd catch Hargulka yet! Especial with talking blood-hounds on their side. Wondering briefly if Reggie could be taught to speak Berrin swings back into Valnyr's saddle and decides that would be a bad idea, the bloody thylacine had been sleeping in his room since forever. It might get embarrassing if the thing didn't have the decency to keep his mouth shut if it found a voice.

Round 2, Initiative 20, Last Stand of the Adviser.
hp; 62/62, AC 20/T13/FF20, F+10/R+4/W+1
Conditions; Charge, -2 to to AC.
FRA: Charge.

Charge, power attack: 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (3) + 13 = 16

Roaring, Berrin sprints the last 60' toward the two headed troll with his sword raised high above his head. Thundering across the grass after Nikolai and Akiros, Berrin brings the sword crashing down with all his strength only to have Nagrundi, with his unearthly agility, avoid the blow, burying the blade deep in mud.

Round 2, Initiative 20, Last Stand of the Advisor.
hp; 62/62, AC 22/T13/FF20, F+10/R+4/W+1
Conditions; None
Avert eyes 51+: 1d100 ⇒ 98
Valnyr Will save: 1d20 + 2 ⇒ (12) + 2 = 14
Ride, Quick Dismount DC 20: 1d20 + 9 ⇒ (15) + 9 = 24
Handle animal, tell Valnyr to stay DC 17 (base 15 + 2 for wounded): 1d20 + 13 ⇒ (5) + 13 = 18

Averting his eyes well in time for the flash of Elsir's spell Berrin curses softly as a resounding neigh and the unmistakable feeling of panic coming through Berrin's bond with Valnyr, the bloody horse was staring right at the troll!

Gripping the reins tightly Berrin jumps out of the saddle with practices ease and surprising speed, holding Valnyr's tight for a moment Berrin soothes the horse with a drawsn out sush and a stroke on the muzzle, sending Valnyr reassuring vibes as best he can before letting the reins free and turning to stride towards the troll, drawing his greatsword as he goes.

Fast dismount success, double move 60' toward troll and draw sword.

Edit; forgot to roll for rounds for the blinded condition on Valnyr.
Rounds blinded, Valnyr: 1d4 + 1 ⇒ (4) + 1 = 5

Round 1, Initiative 20, Last Stand of the Advisor.
hp; 62/62, AC 22/T13/FF20, F+10/R+4/W+1
Bow Attack: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (1) + 8 = 9 lol!

Watching the spiderlike movements of the two headed troll as it draws closer Berrin takes after the others example and draws out his bow, drawing an arrow Berrin is obviously stressed at the monsters approach and fumbles the arrow off the string. Biting back a curse a snort bearing an uncanny resemblance to a snicker is heard from Valnyr, drawing a glare from Berrin.

Loosing the order to charge Berrin is soon thundering through the ranks of monsters, losing himself in the moment of battle, loping of heads, trampling unfortunates under Valnyr and cleaving through bodies two at a time wielding his greatsword in powerful strokes soon covers both man and horse it splatters of blood and gore. Chasing down fleeing adversaries to and fro Berrin mounted on his spirited warhorse, a paragon of it's kind, is a true terror on the battlefield.

Leading the charge straight down the middle ranks of monsters Berrin finds himself in the thick of retaking the bridge, stopping of the monstrous armies line of retreat, acting as the anvil for the hammer that is Aylene's charging horse. The only moment of respite from barking orders and roaring challenges is the moment Berrin and Aylene meet up on the bridge, Aylene riding through the press of trolls, bloody and beautiful, a true visage of terrible war, Berrin reins in Valnyr and shares in a moment with his wife where both grin foolishly, lean in from thir respective saddles to steal a kiss from each other before laughing and charging off again to drive on the troops in their merciless slaughter.

When the cries of surrender start to fill the air and adversaries turn to cowering bodies Berrin reins in his bloodlust to survey the battlefield. Victory was complete, the enemies rout was total. Spurring Valnyr on he rides through the body of Newhaven's victorious army, sharing in cheers of victory with the men but stopping to exchange words with every commander on the field, ordering mercy and quarter to be given to the surrendered enemy. Yes, they were monsters. Yes, they came to sack Sanctuary. Yes, they were evil but Berrin knew Jemini well enough to know that the paladin that was their first-among-equals would order it. Her shining example must be rubbing of on the gruff warrior. The sight must look farther than the next moment, Choral was on the horizon and knowing Jemini, she's recruit the monsters and accept them into Newhavens fold before the light of day was out.

On his ride through the battlefield, talking to the commanders, Berrin sees the cornered two headed troll and Nikolai hading toward it. Arriving in time to hear him treat with it Berrin accepts his wisdom in tactics and takes up a position at Nikolai's left flank, ready with his lance to heard the monster at the Dragon Lord. After today Nikolai would never be the Stag Lord to Berrin again, the barbarian was redeemed in the warriors eyes, from now on he would always be the Dragon Lord.

Hmm. looks like I lost that bet. You took it down in 1 round not 1.5...

I'm not nervous at all, you're going to turn him into paste in 1.5 rounds and we need to conserve resources. There's more healing to go around than haste but I'd vote for waiting to cast it just yet.

Worst case scenario you'll have to sit out the rest of the battle and we'll raise you again after it, if Vindrago won't do it then we'll get outside help, maybe from the elves of Kyonin, and Nikolai will have garnered a reputation of willingness to lay down his life for Newhaven.

Edit: Plus you've got hero points to spread around.

Sitting atop Valnyr Berrin has an excellent view of the minotaur as it steps out from the monstrous throng, seeing the sheer size of it Berrin feels guiltily relieved at not having been the one chosen to fight it. 'Perhaps rank does have some privileges.' he mused knowing he would have stepped up if needed but glad that it hadn't been. Turning his gaze to the now monstrous Nikolai Berrin takes up the beating rhythm of the army by beating his armored fist against his armored chest.

If a bank had been running on the fight, Berrin would have bet every coin he had on Nikolai.

Working his fingers free of a gauntlet Berrin fishes up a bears claw hanging from a leather cord up from around his neck and holds it out to Nikolai. "Here, it's magical and will toughen your skin. Every little bit helps, yes?" When Nikolai accepts it Berrin gives the Stag Lord a grim nod and turns to an adjunct, waving him over.

"Pass the word to all commanders; If Hargulka is spotted a signal is to be sent, one long if he is sighted, two if he is engaged." holding up his signal horn for emphasis Berrin gives a curt nod and the adjunct gives a sharp one in return and makes off to alert the ranks.

Berrin just handed his amulet of natural armor +1 to Nikolai.

"Maybe their just calling for the commanders to step up and take some of the beating." Berrin tears his gaze away from the right flank, his eyes involuntarily having sought out Aylene. 'Focus! Bloody ridge, and bloody forest!' He grits his teeth and glaces toward the left flank, his line of sight to the centaurs still blocked by that ridge. "Calling for reinforcements, per say. We are driving them back." a note of satisfaction can be heard in Berrin's tone.

Awww.. I was expecting either a scolding or Verik turning even redder in the face as he handed Berrin his lance :,(

Well, on with business then. Nikolai's our champion right? Anybody got something to help him prepare? Buffs? Potions? His opponent wont be anything straight out of the bestiary. Out of the bestiary, sure, but buffed to hell and back I reckon.

Turning to face then army as the cheer goes up Berrin rises in his saddle and raises the longbow overhead, roaring and whooping with the army, partaking in their joy and sharing in their elation. Looking over the battlefield Berrin's sense of elation is only enhanced, they were doing good, not just holding, actually driving them back. At least what he could see, that bloody ridge was still blocking his sight to the centaurs, and that bloody woods wasn't helping that either.

Pondering the Centaurs drew the grin from Berrin as he settled back into his saddle and looking west at the cavalry decimating the lizardmen threw any cheer he felt right out the window. Aylene was in the think of that, sure, mounted and armored, surrounded by knights and more than capable of taking care of herself but still, this was war and Berrin worried.

Riding back to the command camp any glee or satisfaction was long gone from Berrin, the next task needed doing, the war raged and this battle wasn't won by one skirmish with wyverns. Lost in thought, the monstrous chant for a champion on his mind, Berrin doesn't notice when Verik comes up to him, waving the curative wand, so he jerks around in surprise as the cold shower of healing magic washes over him. Reaching for the back of his neck to cover the scratch and staring thunder at Verik for a moment Berrin relaxes as it sinks in what the cleric was doing. "Thanks." he manages, still not realizing why the cleric would be in a sour mood.

Turning back to face the camp he addresses the gathered heroes. "They're calling forth a champion. We should send out our own to meet him." he says, looking directly at Nikolai, his meaning clear, if a champion fight was to be then Nikolai should be theirs. Battlefield duels were a time honored tradition which, apparently, didn't end with civilized races. Berrin would be damned if he turned into the general who refused one but common sense dictated that Nikolai was a far more fearsome opponent in single combat than Berrin would ever be.

"It will probably be the minatour we saw with Hargulka at the summit though I could be wrong." he adds, more to himself than anyone in particular.

Still staring at the wyvern unblinkingly Berrin is brought out of his stupor by Verik's cussing at Nikolai, furrowing his brow he wonders what could possibly have gotten into the clerics breaches this time. They's just brought down three wyverns! Those bastards had been causing Berrin no end of grief and now three of them were dead!? Surely this was good?

Watching Verik start to stalk off Berrin leans down in his saddle to address the cleric as he walks by. "Umm... Verik? Would you mind handing me back my lance? Please?"

Round 2, initative 19
Berrin: HP 57/62; AC 21/13T/21FF; +10F/+4R/+1W
Conditions: None.
> Attack wyvern longbow: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (20) + 8 = 28
>> Critical Confirmation: 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (8) + 8 = 16 slap on a hero point for an even 20!
>> damage: 3d8 ⇒ (5, 1, 3) = 9
Valnyr; HP 30/30; AC 20/12T/19FF; +7F/+6R/+2W
Conditions: None.

"Oh no you don't." Berrin mutters, the moment in time seeming to slow down, every detail becoming more vivid for a brief, short moment as he sees the wyvern start to take flight, it's muscles straining to lift it's weight of the the ground, away from the biting swords of it's enemies, the look of terror in it's eyes as it desperately seeks a way out of this painful hell. Dropping the lance Berrin eyes the wyvern coldly as he retrieves his bow, noting every twitch of it's muscles, the way the air gusts under the beating of the wyverns wings as he calmly nocks an arrow and draws it, follows it's ascent without blinking an eye.

Choosing his timing just as the wyvern goes out of the range of his allies weapons Berrin blinks once, slowly, let's out a long breath and let's fly the arrow with a *twang* of the cord.

The arrow sails true trough the air, angling perfectly to catch the climbing wyvern right in it's jaw at just the right moment when it strains it's neck in time with a beat of it's wing, it's body stretched tout from head to tail, leaving the soft under skin unprotected. Suddenly ceasing all motion the wyvern hangs motionless int the air for a moment before gravity pulls it's limp form back to the ground, landing with a *thud*, and a spray of dust, the wyvern lays twitching on the ground, dying with an arrow through it's skull, right through it's brain.

Wyvern #1 dead

Round 1, initative 19
Berrin: HP 62/62; AC 21/13T/21FF; +10F/+4R/+1W
Conditions: None.
> Fortitude save vs. poison (DC 17) 1d20 + 10 ⇒ (19) + 10 = 29
> Attack Wyvern#2 1d20 + 12 ⇒ (11) + 12 = 23
>> Damage 1d8 + 5 ⇒ (4) + 5 = 9
Valnyr; HP 30/30; AC 20/12T/19FF; +7F/+6R/+2W
Conditions: None.
> Full-attack vs. Wyvern #2 bite: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (8) + 6 = 14, hoof1: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (18) + 6 = 24, hoof2: 1d20 + 6 ⇒ (1) + 6 = 7
>> hoof damage: 1d6 + 4 ⇒ (2) + 4 = 6

Berrin fights to keep hold of his newly acquired lance against the struggling wyvern as it flails against him, gritting his teeth against the incredible sting of the scratch Berrin growls and yanks the lance free from the wyverns flesh, earning a loud shriek from the psudodragon and bath of blood as a long jet of it sprays from the puncture wound from Berrin's lance.

Seeing the wyvern stumble from the joined onslaught of two knights, a soldier and Verik's magic Berrin grins and spurs Valnyr on, casing the beast to neigh, rise on it's hind legs and pummel the flying snake into the ground with a flurry of hooves with 600lbs of horse flesh behind them.

Wyvern #2: -6/73 hp; AC 19/10T/18FF; +9F/+6R/+8W

Round 1, initative 19
Berrin: HP 62/62; AC 21/13T/21FF; +10F/+4R/+1W
Conditions: Charging.
> Lance Charge Wyvern #2 1d20 + 14 ⇒ (19) + 14 = 33
>> Damage 2d8+10 2d8 + 10 ⇒ (7, 1) + 10 = 18
Valnyr; HP 30/30; AC 20/12T/19FF; +7F/+6R/+2W
Conditions: Charging.
> Charge Wyvern #2 1d20 + 8 ⇒ (4) + 8 = 12

Seeing the wyverns crash into the ground brings a small grin to Berrin's face, it was comical for sure, and after the grief they'd caused him on the battlefield he felt slightly justified taking pleasure in their predicament. His grin fading quickly Berrin turned his focus to the one that looked the most lively after the fall, lowered the lance and spurred Valnyr into a charge, sending man and beast crashing into the wyverns side, burrying the lance deep in it's side.

Wyvern #2: 45/73 hp; AC 19/10T/18FF; +9F/+6R/+8W

"Jem and Nick." Berrin says without hesitation to Elsirs's offer of anti-toxin and continues his preperation for combat, checking straps and that weapons were within easy reach and loose in their scabbards. Loosing Jemini was never an option and if Nikolai died too many Brevic nobles would be happy for Berrin to sleep well at night.

Having sent a message to Aylene and explained thier intentions to his lieutenants Berrin had taken Valnyr's reins off the hands of the squire, much to the squires relief, and now stood in the thickets with the ruling body of Newhaven.

"Judging from what I've seen of the wyverns tactics we'll need to spread out if we want to lure one inn. They've been picking off stragglers from the edges of the units, so far I've yet to see them attack any body of men. And they've been smart enough to avoid the cross-bowmen" Berrin offers on the discussion of tactics. "They act more like birds of prey, hunting fish in water, swooping in and flying right back out."

"Aye, wyverns." Berrin nods at Veriks suggestion and Nikolai's incistance. "I agree. The wyverns are causing a serious distraction and making it impossible to employ the archers to any real effect, taking them out of the picture is top priority." thinking the matter settled Berrin looks around, wondering where he left his bow and arrows. Finding them kicked under the table he gives a small *ah* as he remembers their location and bends to retrieve it, half crawling on his hands and knees to get them.

Rising back up from under the table, deep in thought, he straps the weapon and ammunition on. "If we can get them out of the sky I can redeploy the archers to harry the crowd crossing the river, making it a mop up for the cavalry, effectively freeing them up in the process, if we engage the trolls and hold them off long enough then the cavalry can be used to drive them off. If the trolls brake, the army brakes." Finishing with the bow and arrows Berrin frowns and pats himself down, again looking about questioningly.

With another *ah* he bends down to his saddlebags, propped up by a table leg and retrieves his signal horn, raising it up for Nikolai to see and looks questioningly at Nikolai, mouthing *one?* *two?* and counting off with his fingers as well to get the question across.

Receiving his reply he turns to a nearby squire, his expression one of authority to be obeyed without question. "Find me a lance and strap it to my saddle. Keep Valnyr close at all times, I will ride him when the wyverns are taken care off." he orders the boy, receiving a salute but not noticing the dread look the boy adopts at the prospect of managing Berrin's spirited mount, before hurrying off.

"Ok. Anything else?" He claps his hands and then rubs them together in anticipation for the fight, looking questioningly at his companions, founders and friends alike, hiding the growing hallow pit in his stomach he always got before the hell that was a pitched battle. So many things could go wrong, and most of them usually did, best just get this over with.

"Well, he's out there." Berrin answers with a shrug, gesturing lamely toward the fighting. "Don't know 'is location, but we met. Nearly took off my head, I repaid in kind and then he was lost in the crowd, but with him being a troll, I doubt a smack on the head did him much harm."

"We've been trying to take down the bridge but keep being driven off, the damn things built too good to fall quickly, 'less you're thinking og taking it down my magic? That might work."

Thank you Isaac. Glad to be back :)

And Verik, it was planned ;P. Sort of..

Sooo... Does the general just order you lot about or do you want to discuss tactics?

Btw. Hi everyone, how's things? Kingdom hasn't fallen apart yet I see, not for Isaac's lack of trying I hope :P

A quick grin of relief crosses the generals mud-streaked face at the sight of his friends arrival, 'Well win this yet!' Dirty and disheveled, his armor bloody and sporting a few new dents his grin fades quickly as he impatiently waves them over to a makeshift table holding a map of the Hydra Bridge area with colored stones to represent the battling factions. Interrupted by a messenger, Berrin's relief is washed away to grim determination as his focus shifts back to the task at hand, taking a small scroll, reading it quickly and handing it off to an adjunct he leans over the table with both hands on its edge, his armored weight posing a serious threat of collapsing it, reaching for a stone and adjusting it's position as the group walks up.

"Good to see you all." he says, glancing over the gathered group, his eyes rest for a moment on Nikolai, seeing that monster of a bow back in his possession giving him pause. Meeting his eye Berrin gives gives something half-way between a nod and a shrug before turning back to the task at hand. 'Keep it, never could draw the thing anyway.'

"You saw the situation when you rode up I presume." He states, more than asks. "Monsters swarmed us in the night and drove us back, all reserves are engaged, I need fire or acid on the east flank to battle the trolls, both centaurs and cavalry need mounted aid, the centaurs are waiting to meet their own on the west flank and the cavalry is ready to meet monsters on the right. We need something to take down those wyverns as well as magics to help control the battlefield." he rattles off, hardly pausing for a breath.

Rest up man.

Made me jump there... And now I'm paranoid!

Berrin stares from Verik to Jemini as they discuss the historic importance of the area, a frown creeping over his face as he ponders it's significance to their current situation. Unable to reach any conclusion he feels quite at a loss how to contribute to the discussion.

"Err.. interesting" he blatantly lies, "But, eh.. We're burning daylight." Looking to Akiros and Nikolai he shrugs and spurs Valnyr forward, crossing the ford.

I find the discussion fascinating actually, Berrin, however, does not.

That, and horrible diplomacy rolls. But hey, I just roll with the rolls ;P

Knowledge Geography, take 10: 10 + 5 = 15
Perception: 1d20 + 4 ⇒ (17) + 4 = 21
Survival Aid Another; Nikolai: 1d20 + 5 ⇒ (1) + 5 = 6

Picking up his customary place at the front of the group, Berrin tries to fall into the practiced rhythm he and Zander had found while leading the group through the wilderness the year before, looking for tracks, checking the weather and watching the surrounding area and picking out a path for the group to take, except that now the partner unexpectedly seems to be the ever silent Nikolai. The stoic former Stag Lord, however, still makes Berrin uncomfortable so his attempts at aiding serve no practical purposes for the groups progress.

Arriving at the ford Berrin's mind seems to be blocking up from the continued embarrassment of offering useless advice, after useless advice, and, what seems, a never ending stream of stating the obvious. Suffering Nikolai's cold stares was bad enough but Berrin got the feeling that the glowers were getting darker and his 'help' was only seving to make Nikolai angry, probably testing the barbarians patience to the extreme.

Drawing Valnyr to a halt at the ford Berrin's head clears as he recalls the hydra lairing here the last time they crossed and his eyes run from the ford and along the path before them.

"Wolves." he states after staring south for a moment. "A pair far to the south, moving slowly, probably a part of one of the packs Zander warned us about. There are certainly more in the river valley if we choose to go that route."

Surveying the nearby area he visualizes the area in his mind, recalling it from maps he'd studied.

"We have two routes open to us. We can skirt the foothills, adding two days to out journey, or we can make through the valley. Wyverns hunt along the shore of Lake Silverstep, it's teaming with rare fish and produces the best drinking water in the Stolen Lands, but it's shores are also ripe with predators." he states, staring into the distance. Turning back to the group Berrin gives a small start, realizing what he'd done; His advice and observations had actually been accurate and helpful! A grin creeps over his face at the realization.

Hey guys. A heads up from me here.

I'll be moving this summer, end of July most probably, so my internet might get hectic during that time but bigger news; I just got accepted into Reykjavik University where I'll be studying for a BSc in Computer Science for the next three years, starting august 19th. I don't know how that will impact my schedule or my ability to play play-by-post, but know that this will be the last game I drop if I need to drop games (which I'm certain I will).

Berrin cringes as the two start up again, it didn't seem to matter what one said, the other took offense.

"Umm..Verik.." Berrin begins, deciding to step in but berating himself to stay out of it the whole time. "He, ah.. He's probably right you know. We'd do well to trust him on this, he probably knows them better than any of us. Cayden knows I couldn't begin to put myself in their shoes, myself. And, besides, it's not like this is your first outing Verik, you did just fine with us, without a tent, when we first started exploring these lands. You'll do fine Verik."

21st Gozran 4710

Berrin emerges from the castle main doors into the courtyard with the first rays of the sun making their way slowly across the ground, a grim expression on his face. Fully armed and armored, wearing his gleaming half-plate, the Stag Lords former greatsword on his back, a dagger and Kressel's handaxe hanging from the broad, silver clasped, leather belt crafted by Verik across his waist, his navy-blue cloack flapping behind him, gold fringed with his sigil, a bear eating a sword, in black on it's back and the red, golden-eagle clasped, sash draped over his chest, he strides purposefully toward Valnyr, armored and saddled, carrying the rest of Berrin's gear and arms in various saddlebags and straps, a longbow, the spear flapping Berrin's banner, gold-trimmed, navy blue with his sigil in black, and his longsword and shield at his sides, the steed stands uncharacteristically patient, as it senses it's masters grim mood, determined but hesitant.

Raised voices had carried well into the night after Berrin had spent the day making preparations for the journey, laying orders for the armies continued growth and training, organizing his gear and armor, finding a suitable horse for the less, and less, timid cleric, and avoiding the inevitable argument, he knew was coming, with Aylene, who did not appreciate being left behind.

How Berrin had managed to soothe his wife's temper wasn't exactly clear, but what sounded like the two preparing to come to blows had ended with the bells ringing into the night and now Aylene, as grim faced as Berrin, stood on the castle steps to see her husband off.

Pulling on the saddle, Berrin meets Akiros's clouded eyes and nods stiffly before swinging onto Valnyr's back. "Glad you're with us, marshal." he mutters before turning to wait for the others, genuinely relieved to have the warrior with them for the trip.

I think Celeador would be a great addition to the game and would welcome him aboard and good to see you Meowzebub :) Hope you catch up.

Berrin and Aylene both snicker at Jemini's remark, trying without success to cover their respective grins with shifting feet and small coughs as they eye Verik and Nikolai. At Verik's comment they both grow somber and look each other in the eye and after a moment give Verik an affirmative.

"Can't let those two out alone, who knows what trouble they'll find. Besides, it's been to long since I got the chance to take Valnyr out for a proper outing."

I added the cloak to my sheet, thanks.