Elendor
A compromise reached?
Frarin visits Thane Ovor of Zinbar and the two reach an agreement of sorts over Thari and Siv.
Sort Date: no date set
Location: Thane Zinbar's Chambers
Game Date: 15 January 3045
IC Time: Early night
Description:
Thane Zinbar's Chambers(#23618RtU)
Carved out of solid stone, its ancient bonds broken and shaped by superior Khazad skill, as ancient as the very mountains, this magnificent chamber rises up into a great dome. The rock from which the rectangular room is dug is a dark grey in colour, evenly tinted in a deep blue. The walls, polished and smooth, hold bits of mica that glint brightly in the room's illumination of lamp and candle, and fine veins of white quartz glow in the warm light. Centered on the wall opposite the arched antechamber is a stone fireplace shaped into the mouth of a dragon, its jaws parted wide, eyes and nostrils hollowed out, allowing the flickering fire to flash out from within. To either side of the fireplace two pillars rise, protruding halfway from the wall, in the shape of a dragon's wings.
Two more pillars in each direction line that wall, as well as two on either side wall and six more on the remaining wall, each carved in the figure of a dwarven warrior, every one unique. Three exits lead from the room: one in the wall opposite the fireplace, leading to a small antechamber, which in turn leads out into the Clan Zinbar main hall, and one opening onto the west wing, one onto the east wing. The three archways are carved through the blue-gray stone, each lined with a different coloured marble: the west wing's arch is of a rich green the east wing's arch is of a vibrant red while the arch leading back towards the Thingstead is of pure white.
The west wing looks to be for feasting, for there are long tables and chairs, brightly polished silver plates, cups and untensils at each chair except the head, which is of gold. The eastern wing looks to be the sleeping quarters of the Thane Zinbar and esteemed guests. A long rectangular table of mahogany stretches across the floor, the Thane's chair behind it and two lesser chairs before it in front of it a spectacular carpet on which is designed a map of north-western Middle Earth.
Contents:
Ovor
Obvious exits:
Double Bronze Doors (South) leads to Underhalls, Tower of Thorin I (Zinbar Thingstead).
[Ovor(#20753)] It is early night in the world outside of the Mountain clouds cover the winter's sky and there is most certainly a chill in the air. Yet, for the Dwarves, the outside world is only something that need concern them at certain times, and this is not one of them. While others may be winding down from the day, Dwarves never truly stop working.
Sitting behind his desk, sipping at a mug, is the Thane Ovor of Zinbar, reading over some parchment or another. Beside him there is Filur and Belur, with the political advisor handing the Thane parchments or tomes from time to time.
Sitting on a bench by the door to the Thingstead, as ever, is the Doorward Farak, looking tired but alert and ready to do his duty for the Thane. At the moment, the door is open the young Dwarves eyes flick out of it relatively often, looking for any that might be approaching.
[Frarin] From the Zinbar Thingstead comes a dwarf dressed in a new maroon tunic and silver belt, his straggly brown beard wagging back and forth with his limping gait. Frarin son of Forli is frowning, a habitual expression, but today exaggerated by a certain seriousness in his demeanour. He approaches the door to the chambers of the Thane Zinbar and gives a shallow bow to the doorward.
"Hail," he greets Farak, eyes flicking beyond to Ovor, to whom Frarin raises his voice. "Good evening, my Lord Ovor. May I beg an audience?"
[Ovor(#20753)] Farak stands after a moment, giving a slight bow to Frarin before he, too, looks to his Thane.
As the voice is heard, Ovor glances up there is a momentary pause before he glances to Filur. The political advisor nods, gathering the various parchments and tomes, leaving the main chamber. It is only then that the Thane looks back to Frarin, nodding his head.
"Aye, aye, you can." A hand motions to a chair before the desk. "Have a seat. Would you like any food or drink?"
[Frarin] Frarin gives a deep nod to Filur as the political advisor departs and another to Belur before he bows to Ovor. "Nay, my lord, I have supped already, thank you." The silversmith comes into the chamber and stops once he is before the Thane's desk, but he remains standing with his hands clasped behind his back. To Belur is given a brief greeting and introduction, "Frarin son of Forli at your service," before Frarin looks back to Ovor. "I trust you are well, Thane?"
[Ovor(#20753)] "As well as one might be, aye." The Thane nods his head, taking another drink from his mug. Belur nods his head to Frarin, a slight smile upon his face before the Thane speaks once more. "And yourself? Your journey to the Iron Hills was as pleasant as it might be?"
[Frarin] "Aye, as well as might be expected," Frarin nods. "I was at least able to meet with family and friends that I have not seen for some several years. Though I am more contented now that I am returned to the Mountain." He pauses, his frown returning with the end of the pleasantries. But though silent for a moment, he does eventually speak, and with a certain element of caution in his voice. "My lord, I wonder perhaps if you recieved my letter? I sent it some weeks before I departed the Iron Hills."
[Ovor(#20753)] A slightly weary nod comes from the Thane. "Aye, I did. I figured it would be better to explain it to you in person than to send a letter in return there is much than can be misunderstood in a letter." The Thane falls silent for a few moments, nodding his head slightly to Farak the young Doorward shuts the door to the Thingstead before sitting down once more. It is only then the Thane speaks.
"Thari assaulted Siv. While it was only two slaps, it as an attack on one of my clansdwarves. From what we have been able to determine, Thari assaulted her over what another Dwarf has said... unfortunately, we have yet to be able to contact the Dwarf for questioning."
"Siv, of course, denies that she has said anything that would merit such a response." It is Belur that speaks now, voice quiet and measured. "And though we are aware of her reputation, she has stated that she is willing to swear any oath that we might make that she has done such. Our attempt to settle the matter before it got out of hand floundered when Braldor made a rather... rash choice, I think, over simple words."
[Frarin] Frarin is stock-still as first Ovor, then Belur speak. With his hands clasped behind him, the silversmith's familiar stony expression reveals nothing more than a willingness to listen for the time being. And when they finish, he is quiet for a time, lips slightly pursing as he seems to roll this information over in his head. Then, again with measured deliberateness, Frarin nods and asks, "May I ask what Thane Braldor said exactly that was so rash?"
[Ovor(#20753)] "That no Bundazanul was to speak to a Zinbar, which only makes resolving this case more difficult. Not to mention the larger impact it would have on trade as a whole between the clans. We had little choice but to deny our leather goods to them." So says the Thane, after drinking the last of what was in his mug. "Though it is more costly, we have turned to the Dale manlings for our lumber."
"We did have a good chance of resolving it, as well, once we had learned where Thari had got her information from before, according to our reports, she made no attempt what-so-ever to reveal her source of information, which did not cast a favourable light upon her. Now, as the Thane says, resolving this is all the more difficult."
[Frarin] At this Frarin nods, as if suspicions confirmed. "Yes, I was given to understand that it was Braldor who first gave instructions that no Bundazanul speak with Zinbar." He is silent a while longer, now crossing his hands over his chest and fingering the end of his mustache in thought. "However, my lord, I cannot pretend that such a rift between your two clans is heartening to Barazin. Could you not have resolved to communicate with Braldor again rather than create such a deep divide within Erebor? There is pride, true, and the hotness of temper, but it is some weeks since this argument, is it not? Will you forever force your clansmen to be cut off from Bundazanul?"
[Ovor(#20753)] "I do not think that Braldor will be all that willing to speak with us again he cannot, after all, break his own edict and hope for it to remain enforced amongst his clandwarves. And we have few that we can use as go-betweens for such important business we had not expected something like this, after all.
"Zinbar and Bundazanul have never been close allies, but neither have we been particular foes. We have had some thoughts that it could be the work of an outside influence seeking to cause the rift, but our investigations have turned up little to nothing." The Thane shrugs after a moment, sighing quietly. "I have often thought to improve our relations with Barazin and Mazarbul, but I have had little oppertunity to send a representative to persue the matter."
[Frarin] The Thane recieves no immediate reply to that. Tapping his finger against his bottom lip, Frarin frowns to himself, gaze briefly dropping to the floor in thought. Then, with a long breath, he looks back up to Belur and Ovor. "My lord, Barazin would of course welcome an improvement of relations between our clan and yours, but I will not disguise the fact that there are those who would not look especially kindly upon recieving your favour only because of a certain disfavour towards Bundazanul. You are aware, I don't doubt, that Barazin and Bundazanul are not close allies, but we are neither enemies and we have many trade relations with them, as do they with us."
A breath and Frarin continues. "My lord, I have come to you to convey a message on my clan's behalf. Understand, Thane, that though Barazin might benefit from increased business with Zinbar, we will be hurt by this rift as much as Bundazanul. If Bundazanul loses business with your clan, then they must cut back on their trade with Barazin to an equal measure, for their income will be reduced. And I will not disguise the fact that there are many in Barazin--" a pause, then "--myself included, who are not impressed with your insistance on turning this into an issue between the clans in the first place, my lord."
[Ovor(#20753)] "I only seek to improve our relations so that no other clan may turn their backs upon us." The words are murmured by the Thane quietly before he sighs softly, leaning back in his chair. "As I have said before... this was no simple tavern brawl if it were, it could be excused. But she assaulted Siv with little provocation... the laws of the Mountain state that any dispute between clans is to be settled by the Court. We tried to settle it without getting the Court involved. I have already informed you of how that turned out."
[Frarin] "I do not see how it is nothing more than a tavern brawl, my lord," Frarin replies, without any sharpness or anger in his voice. "True, Thari has accused Siv of deliberately spreading dissent, but there have been equal or worse accusations made in our pubs, and without the influence of alcohol. Understand, my lord, that I do not say Thari was right or wrong. I am not attempting to pass judgment on this situation, but I think it is something that ought to be handled between Thari and her family and Siv and her family. I have heard it from Siv herself that she thinks this whole situation ridiculous."
"True it is that our laws state that clan disputes should be settled in court, but this should never have become a clan dispute, my lord. This is not a dispute over trade or mining rights or patents. It is a confrontation that took place between two private citizens who happened to be of separate clans. I must urge you to consider that, my lord, before this relatively minour matter becomes bigger even than it is."
[Ovor(#20753)] "It is not, that is true." Murmurs the Thane. "But we are a small clan, Frarin. To make such an accusation... it reflects on the clan as a whole, you understand? We tried to settle it without getting the Court involved. Braldor stormed out. Do not seek to lay the blame entirely on my shoulders." With that, the Thane falls silent.
It is Belur that speaks next. "We would quite like nothing more than to have this settled without the Court it disrupts our business and numerous other things." Here, the Elder pauses a moment, eyes flicking over Frarin briefly. "I have a proposition for you, actually, Forli's son. One that may end this in a much quieter manner than which it began."
[Frarin] To Ovor's reprimand Frarin says nothing, frowning in a neutral manner but otherwise remaining silent. The silversmith's brows rise, however, as Belur mentions the possibility of a proposition. Silent a moment longer, he then nods. "If you have a proposition, I would know it. Barazin has no more interest in drawing out this affair than does Zinbar or Bundazanul. State what you have to say."
[Ovor(#20753)] Belur stands, brushing his beard straighter some before speaking. "If you are willing, I would have you gather Thari and Siv, as well as the Dwarf that Thari claimed gave her the information. Speak with Braldor if you must what I plan is to sit these Dwarves down and work this out. You are, of course, welcome to participate as a neutral observer, if you feel you can fulfill such a role. Braldor is more than welcome to appoint one of his Elders, though he must be knowledable in such matters. This will take place somewhere quiet, but a holding that is not to either Clan neutral ground."
[Frarin] Frarin's face is still as Belur speaks, with only a slow blink or two betraying any sort of thoughts. "You would have an Elder of Zinbar present as well then?" he asks after a moment. "I still do not hold that this is a matter of clans, Master Belur. I propose instead that Thari and Siv and the dwarf Thari claims as the source of her information meet instead, the three of them, with me as an observer if you so wish. Let these three meet, as should have been the case from the very start. If they should resolve their conflict, then surely the clans can have no further dispute."
[Ovor(#20753)] "Belur would serve as the Elder from Zinbar." Comes a new voice, from the direction of the dining hall the voice belongs to Khaur the Old, a fact revealed by the sound of his staff coming to rest upon the ground. "But your proposal has more merit, I think, than Belur would entirely admit. You will have to forgive him he loves to keep appraised of all matters that concern the law within the clan, and he does not have Filur's network."
The Loremaster of Zinbar pauses for a moment, eyes upon Frarin, his perpetual frown lifting for a moment into a small smile one of his hands rests lightly at the book hanging at his side. "You, however, may serve well indeed, beardling. If you can keep yourself neutral, though I have little doubt of this."
[Frarin] There is a shift over Frarin's face at the introduction of a new voice now and his chin lifts slightly in interest as the old Loremaster makes himself more obvious. But the silversmith's initial expression of wariness soon returns to the measured, neutral look of before and he listens in silence to Khaur. There is only the slightest pressing of his lips together at being called beardling, but he lets that pass easily enough.
"Master Bookmaster," Frarin says, addressing the old dwarf according to his only obvious identifying trait in absence of an introduction, "it is well known of my connection with Thari daughter of Balur. But I know her faults as well as my own. I do not take joy in politics, but I understand the necessity of measured neutrality better than many of our people, of that you may be assured, sir." Turning to Ovor, Frarin says, "Is this compromise acceptable to you, my lord Thane?"
[Ovor(#20753)] A slightly amused grunt comes from the Loremaster. "Loremaster, Historian... and bearer of the Grudge Book. Some know me as... Khaur the Old." Again, that slight smile comes to his face before it becomes serious once more. "Well known, indeed and politics is tiresome, which is why I leave it to the beardlings." Here, a hand waves slightly at the other Elder and the Thane. "I am assured, though not by your words just now. I have listened to you speak, and that is enough."
The Thane nods his head slightly, a slight glance sent towards the Loremaster, mumbling something into his beard before he speaks. "Aye, it works well. I want this over with I like to consider Thari a friend and I have no grudge against Braldor."
[Frarin] Frarin nods to both Khaur and Ovor, apparently satisfied. But his gaze drops to the ground and his brow wrinkles for a moment as if there is something further he wishes to say and is taking a moment to form the words for it. Indeed, his eyes even close for a brief second. Then he looks up and takes a breath. "My Lord Ovor, I have agreed to be a neutral observer as both a private citizen and a member of a clan outwith this dispute, but as an ambassador of my clan, I have something further to say."
"I would have you first understand that this is not a threat, but something that I would rather you heard from me than through the gossip of the mountain." His lips press together. "With the Maker's blessing, this dispute shall be resolved at this meeting, but if it is not, should this go to court, you should be aware that Barazin will not stand by. Should this go to court, the divide between Zinbar and Bundazanul will become deeper than ever and, for the good of Erebor, Barazin will weigh in. From this moment I will hold that this is, for the time, no longer a clan dispute, and advise my clan that no further action is needed."
Another breath and, with a complete flatness to his tone, Frarin says last, "If this goes to court, Barazin will support Bundazanul. It is not a threat or a warning, but it has already been discussed within my clan and I would not have you believe I had deliberately decieved you by failing to mention it."
[Ovor(#20753)] The Thane is silent. It is Khaur that speaks, looking at the Thane. "He understands well, beardling. Should it go to the Court, there will be much larger things at stake than the support of the Barazin. Much larger." Ovor merely nods, staring into his empty mug. "See to it, then, that it does not go so far." Here, Khaur turns his attention back to Frarin. "Others will see it as a threat, a warning, or both. But the Thane understands."
[Frarin] Frarin nods stiffly. "So long as it is understood. I shall see that it does not reach that point." His arms uncross and go behind his back again in a more formal gesture and he clears his throat. "Then the matter is settled for the time being. As soon as I have arranged this meeting, I shall let both yourself Lord Ovor and Thane Braldor know of the time and location, though it will of course be a closed session."
"There is also one other thing you should be aware of, my lord, though it is nothing to do with this situation. It involved Hildis daughter of Hilvar, of Barazin. It is the Baruk Narag handling the matter of her arrest now, but should you require any correspondence with Barazin on this particular matter, the lass has asked me to look into the matter on her behalf and I shall be doing so."
[Ovor(#20753)] The Thane nods slightly. "Ah, yes, I heard of the matter from Filur. Caught with a letter no Dwarf would like to be caught with, I believe?" An eyebrow is arched briefly by Ovor. "Filur has offered his services to the Lord Gimli to assist in the catching of Bokin, I believe his name was. I was rather shocked to hear of a Dwarf carrying such a letter, but I do hope it turns out for the best."
"I have only just begun investigating the matter myself, my lord," Frarin nods as he replies. "And I am not well acquainted with Hildis, though I know of her father to an extent. But she is connected with several others I know and she has thus asked for my aid, as a elder member of her own clan. Simply so you know of my involvement. And if you discover any more information concerning her arrest, I would appreciate knowing of it."
[Ovor(#20753)] "Filur was the one that made the initial move to arrest her, I believe, since she was meeting with Bokin though he turned her over to the Narag." So says Ovor, looking to Frarin. "As I understand it, Bokin has been a problem Filur has been trying to deal with for some time, and though he did not get Bokin, the letter this Hildis was carrying..." The Thane shakes his head slightly. "He is convinced she is one of his associates, though his only proof at the moment is the letter."
[Frarin] "And she was given the letter by another, according to her testimony," Frarin replies, nodding. "A suspect claim, of course, and one that you might expect in such circumstances, except that she claims it was given her by Ranor son of Dwanor, with whom I have had dealings. I shall make no assumptions, but Dwanor's son is indeed known for more underhanded dealings. Still, I shall say no more of it until I have had a chance to speak with the Lord Gimli and see what the Narag has thus far uncovered."
And with that Frarin gives Ovor and the other two a deep bow. "That is all I wished to speak with you about, my lord. Unless you have ought else to speak of, I shall let you return to your work."
[Ovor(#20753)] Ovor shakes his head slightly. "No, for now, that is all. It is good to see you back in Erebor, however." A brief flicker of a smile passes over the Thane's face before he nods to Farak. The Doorward stands, opening the door to the Thingstead. "I hope that next time we meet, it will be under better cicumstances."
[Frarin] "Thank you, my lord, I am pleased to be returned, and to find you well." And with another bow, Frarin farewells the Thane. "Perhaps when next we meet I may better come to know some of Keeneye's brews, for which you are so full of priase. Good evening, my lord, Master Belur, Master Khaur." A nod is given Farak, but then the silversmith is leaving the Thane's chambers and disappearing into the crowds in the Thingstead beyond.
Thane Zinbar's Chambers(#23618RtU)
Carved out of solid stone, its ancient bonds broken and shaped by superior Khazad skill, as ancient as the very mountains, this magnificent chamber rises up into a great dome. The rock from which the rectangular room is dug is a dark grey in colour, evenly tinted in a deep blue. The walls, polished and smooth, hold bits of mica that glint brightly in the room's illumination of lamp and candle, and fine veins of white quartz glow in the warm light. Centered on the wall opposite the arched antechamber is a stone fireplace shaped into the mouth of a dragon, its jaws parted wide, eyes and nostrils hollowed out, allowing the flickering fire to flash out from within. To either side of the fireplace two pillars rise, protruding halfway from the wall, in the shape of a dragon's wings.
Two more pillars in each direction line that wall, as well as two on either side wall and six more on the remaining wall, each carved in the figure of a dwarven warrior, every one unique. Three exits lead from the room: one in the wall opposite the fireplace, leading to a small antechamber, which in turn leads out into the Clan Zinbar main hall, and one opening onto the west wing, one onto the east wing. The three archways are carved through the blue-gray stone, each lined with a different coloured marble: the west wing's arch is of a rich green the east wing's arch is of a vibrant red while the arch leading back towards the Thingstead is of pure white.
The west wing looks to be for feasting, for there are long tables and chairs, brightly polished silver plates, cups and untensils at each chair except the head, which is of gold. The eastern wing looks to be the sleeping quarters of the Thane Zinbar and esteemed guests. A long rectangular table of mahogany stretches across the floor, the Thane's chair behind it and two lesser chairs before it in front of it a spectacular carpet on which is designed a map of north-western Middle Earth.
Contents:
Ovor
Obvious exits:
Double Bronze Doors (South) leads to Underhalls, Tower of Thorin I (Zinbar Thingstead).
[Ovor(#20753)] It is early night in the world outside of the Mountain clouds cover the winter's sky and there is most certainly a chill in the air. Yet, for the Dwarves, the outside world is only something that need concern them at certain times, and this is not one of them. While others may be winding down from the day, Dwarves never truly stop working.
Sitting behind his desk, sipping at a mug, is the Thane Ovor of Zinbar, reading over some parchment or another. Beside him there is Filur and Belur, with the political advisor handing the Thane parchments or tomes from time to time.
Sitting on a bench by the door to the Thingstead, as ever, is the Doorward Farak, looking tired but alert and ready to do his duty for the Thane. At the moment, the door is open the young Dwarves eyes flick out of it relatively often, looking for any that might be approaching.
[Frarin] From the Zinbar Thingstead comes a dwarf dressed in a new maroon tunic and silver belt, his straggly brown beard wagging back and forth with his limping gait. Frarin son of Forli is frowning, a habitual expression, but today exaggerated by a certain seriousness in his demeanour. He approaches the door to the chambers of the Thane Zinbar and gives a shallow bow to the doorward.
"Hail," he greets Farak, eyes flicking beyond to Ovor, to whom Frarin raises his voice. "Good evening, my Lord Ovor. May I beg an audience?"
[Ovor(#20753)] Farak stands after a moment, giving a slight bow to Frarin before he, too, looks to his Thane.
As the voice is heard, Ovor glances up there is a momentary pause before he glances to Filur. The political advisor nods, gathering the various parchments and tomes, leaving the main chamber. It is only then that the Thane looks back to Frarin, nodding his head.
"Aye, aye, you can." A hand motions to a chair before the desk. "Have a seat. Would you like any food or drink?"
[Frarin] Frarin gives a deep nod to Filur as the political advisor departs and another to Belur before he bows to Ovor. "Nay, my lord, I have supped already, thank you." The silversmith comes into the chamber and stops once he is before the Thane's desk, but he remains standing with his hands clasped behind his back. To Belur is given a brief greeting and introduction, "Frarin son of Forli at your service," before Frarin looks back to Ovor. "I trust you are well, Thane?"
[Ovor(#20753)] "As well as one might be, aye." The Thane nods his head, taking another drink from his mug. Belur nods his head to Frarin, a slight smile upon his face before the Thane speaks once more. "And yourself? Your journey to the Iron Hills was as pleasant as it might be?"
[Frarin] "Aye, as well as might be expected," Frarin nods. "I was at least able to meet with family and friends that I have not seen for some several years. Though I am more contented now that I am returned to the Mountain." He pauses, his frown returning with the end of the pleasantries. But though silent for a moment, he does eventually speak, and with a certain element of caution in his voice. "My lord, I wonder perhaps if you recieved my letter? I sent it some weeks before I departed the Iron Hills."
[Ovor(#20753)] A slightly weary nod comes from the Thane. "Aye, I did. I figured it would be better to explain it to you in person than to send a letter in return there is much than can be misunderstood in a letter." The Thane falls silent for a few moments, nodding his head slightly to Farak the young Doorward shuts the door to the Thingstead before sitting down once more. It is only then the Thane speaks.
"Thari assaulted Siv. While it was only two slaps, it as an attack on one of my clansdwarves. From what we have been able to determine, Thari assaulted her over what another Dwarf has said... unfortunately, we have yet to be able to contact the Dwarf for questioning."
"Siv, of course, denies that she has said anything that would merit such a response." It is Belur that speaks now, voice quiet and measured. "And though we are aware of her reputation, she has stated that she is willing to swear any oath that we might make that she has done such. Our attempt to settle the matter before it got out of hand floundered when Braldor made a rather... rash choice, I think, over simple words."
[Frarin] Frarin is stock-still as first Ovor, then Belur speak. With his hands clasped behind him, the silversmith's familiar stony expression reveals nothing more than a willingness to listen for the time being. And when they finish, he is quiet for a time, lips slightly pursing as he seems to roll this information over in his head. Then, again with measured deliberateness, Frarin nods and asks, "May I ask what Thane Braldor said exactly that was so rash?"
[Ovor(#20753)] "That no Bundazanul was to speak to a Zinbar, which only makes resolving this case more difficult. Not to mention the larger impact it would have on trade as a whole between the clans. We had little choice but to deny our leather goods to them." So says the Thane, after drinking the last of what was in his mug. "Though it is more costly, we have turned to the Dale manlings for our lumber."
"We did have a good chance of resolving it, as well, once we had learned where Thari had got her information from before, according to our reports, she made no attempt what-so-ever to reveal her source of information, which did not cast a favourable light upon her. Now, as the Thane says, resolving this is all the more difficult."
[Frarin] At this Frarin nods, as if suspicions confirmed. "Yes, I was given to understand that it was Braldor who first gave instructions that no Bundazanul speak with Zinbar." He is silent a while longer, now crossing his hands over his chest and fingering the end of his mustache in thought. "However, my lord, I cannot pretend that such a rift between your two clans is heartening to Barazin. Could you not have resolved to communicate with Braldor again rather than create such a deep divide within Erebor? There is pride, true, and the hotness of temper, but it is some weeks since this argument, is it not? Will you forever force your clansmen to be cut off from Bundazanul?"
[Ovor(#20753)] "I do not think that Braldor will be all that willing to speak with us again he cannot, after all, break his own edict and hope for it to remain enforced amongst his clandwarves. And we have few that we can use as go-betweens for such important business we had not expected something like this, after all.
"Zinbar and Bundazanul have never been close allies, but neither have we been particular foes. We have had some thoughts that it could be the work of an outside influence seeking to cause the rift, but our investigations have turned up little to nothing." The Thane shrugs after a moment, sighing quietly. "I have often thought to improve our relations with Barazin and Mazarbul, but I have had little oppertunity to send a representative to persue the matter."
[Frarin] The Thane recieves no immediate reply to that. Tapping his finger against his bottom lip, Frarin frowns to himself, gaze briefly dropping to the floor in thought. Then, with a long breath, he looks back up to Belur and Ovor. "My lord, Barazin would of course welcome an improvement of relations between our clan and yours, but I will not disguise the fact that there are those who would not look especially kindly upon recieving your favour only because of a certain disfavour towards Bundazanul. You are aware, I don't doubt, that Barazin and Bundazanul are not close allies, but we are neither enemies and we have many trade relations with them, as do they with us."
A breath and Frarin continues. "My lord, I have come to you to convey a message on my clan's behalf. Understand, Thane, that though Barazin might benefit from increased business with Zinbar, we will be hurt by this rift as much as Bundazanul. If Bundazanul loses business with your clan, then they must cut back on their trade with Barazin to an equal measure, for their income will be reduced. And I will not disguise the fact that there are many in Barazin--" a pause, then "--myself included, who are not impressed with your insistance on turning this into an issue between the clans in the first place, my lord."
[Ovor(#20753)] "I only seek to improve our relations so that no other clan may turn their backs upon us." The words are murmured by the Thane quietly before he sighs softly, leaning back in his chair. "As I have said before... this was no simple tavern brawl if it were, it could be excused. But she assaulted Siv with little provocation... the laws of the Mountain state that any dispute between clans is to be settled by the Court. We tried to settle it without getting the Court involved. I have already informed you of how that turned out."
[Frarin] "I do not see how it is nothing more than a tavern brawl, my lord," Frarin replies, without any sharpness or anger in his voice. "True, Thari has accused Siv of deliberately spreading dissent, but there have been equal or worse accusations made in our pubs, and without the influence of alcohol. Understand, my lord, that I do not say Thari was right or wrong. I am not attempting to pass judgment on this situation, but I think it is something that ought to be handled between Thari and her family and Siv and her family. I have heard it from Siv herself that she thinks this whole situation ridiculous."
"True it is that our laws state that clan disputes should be settled in court, but this should never have become a clan dispute, my lord. This is not a dispute over trade or mining rights or patents. It is a confrontation that took place between two private citizens who happened to be of separate clans. I must urge you to consider that, my lord, before this relatively minour matter becomes bigger even than it is."
[Ovor(#20753)] "It is not, that is true." Murmurs the Thane. "But we are a small clan, Frarin. To make such an accusation... it reflects on the clan as a whole, you understand? We tried to settle it without getting the Court involved. Braldor stormed out. Do not seek to lay the blame entirely on my shoulders." With that, the Thane falls silent.
It is Belur that speaks next. "We would quite like nothing more than to have this settled without the Court it disrupts our business and numerous other things." Here, the Elder pauses a moment, eyes flicking over Frarin briefly. "I have a proposition for you, actually, Forli's son. One that may end this in a much quieter manner than which it began."
[Frarin] To Ovor's reprimand Frarin says nothing, frowning in a neutral manner but otherwise remaining silent. The silversmith's brows rise, however, as Belur mentions the possibility of a proposition. Silent a moment longer, he then nods. "If you have a proposition, I would know it. Barazin has no more interest in drawing out this affair than does Zinbar or Bundazanul. State what you have to say."
[Ovor(#20753)] Belur stands, brushing his beard straighter some before speaking. "If you are willing, I would have you gather Thari and Siv, as well as the Dwarf that Thari claimed gave her the information. Speak with Braldor if you must what I plan is to sit these Dwarves down and work this out. You are, of course, welcome to participate as a neutral observer, if you feel you can fulfill such a role. Braldor is more than welcome to appoint one of his Elders, though he must be knowledable in such matters. This will take place somewhere quiet, but a holding that is not to either Clan neutral ground."
[Frarin] Frarin's face is still as Belur speaks, with only a slow blink or two betraying any sort of thoughts. "You would have an Elder of Zinbar present as well then?" he asks after a moment. "I still do not hold that this is a matter of clans, Master Belur. I propose instead that Thari and Siv and the dwarf Thari claims as the source of her information meet instead, the three of them, with me as an observer if you so wish. Let these three meet, as should have been the case from the very start. If they should resolve their conflict, then surely the clans can have no further dispute."
[Ovor(#20753)] "Belur would serve as the Elder from Zinbar." Comes a new voice, from the direction of the dining hall the voice belongs to Khaur the Old, a fact revealed by the sound of his staff coming to rest upon the ground. "But your proposal has more merit, I think, than Belur would entirely admit. You will have to forgive him he loves to keep appraised of all matters that concern the law within the clan, and he does not have Filur's network."
The Loremaster of Zinbar pauses for a moment, eyes upon Frarin, his perpetual frown lifting for a moment into a small smile one of his hands rests lightly at the book hanging at his side. "You, however, may serve well indeed, beardling. If you can keep yourself neutral, though I have little doubt of this."
[Frarin] There is a shift over Frarin's face at the introduction of a new voice now and his chin lifts slightly in interest as the old Loremaster makes himself more obvious. But the silversmith's initial expression of wariness soon returns to the measured, neutral look of before and he listens in silence to Khaur. There is only the slightest pressing of his lips together at being called beardling, but he lets that pass easily enough.
"Master Bookmaster," Frarin says, addressing the old dwarf according to his only obvious identifying trait in absence of an introduction, "it is well known of my connection with Thari daughter of Balur. But I know her faults as well as my own. I do not take joy in politics, but I understand the necessity of measured neutrality better than many of our people, of that you may be assured, sir." Turning to Ovor, Frarin says, "Is this compromise acceptable to you, my lord Thane?"
[Ovor(#20753)] A slightly amused grunt comes from the Loremaster. "Loremaster, Historian... and bearer of the Grudge Book. Some know me as... Khaur the Old." Again, that slight smile comes to his face before it becomes serious once more. "Well known, indeed and politics is tiresome, which is why I leave it to the beardlings." Here, a hand waves slightly at the other Elder and the Thane. "I am assured, though not by your words just now. I have listened to you speak, and that is enough."
The Thane nods his head slightly, a slight glance sent towards the Loremaster, mumbling something into his beard before he speaks. "Aye, it works well. I want this over with I like to consider Thari a friend and I have no grudge against Braldor."
[Frarin] Frarin nods to both Khaur and Ovor, apparently satisfied. But his gaze drops to the ground and his brow wrinkles for a moment as if there is something further he wishes to say and is taking a moment to form the words for it. Indeed, his eyes even close for a brief second. Then he looks up and takes a breath. "My Lord Ovor, I have agreed to be a neutral observer as both a private citizen and a member of a clan outwith this dispute, but as an ambassador of my clan, I have something further to say."
"I would have you first understand that this is not a threat, but something that I would rather you heard from me than through the gossip of the mountain." His lips press together. "With the Maker's blessing, this dispute shall be resolved at this meeting, but if it is not, should this go to court, you should be aware that Barazin will not stand by. Should this go to court, the divide between Zinbar and Bundazanul will become deeper than ever and, for the good of Erebor, Barazin will weigh in. From this moment I will hold that this is, for the time, no longer a clan dispute, and advise my clan that no further action is needed."
Another breath and, with a complete flatness to his tone, Frarin says last, "If this goes to court, Barazin will support Bundazanul. It is not a threat or a warning, but it has already been discussed within my clan and I would not have you believe I had deliberately decieved you by failing to mention it."
[Ovor(#20753)] The Thane is silent. It is Khaur that speaks, looking at the Thane. "He understands well, beardling. Should it go to the Court, there will be much larger things at stake than the support of the Barazin. Much larger." Ovor merely nods, staring into his empty mug. "See to it, then, that it does not go so far." Here, Khaur turns his attention back to Frarin. "Others will see it as a threat, a warning, or both. But the Thane understands."
[Frarin] Frarin nods stiffly. "So long as it is understood. I shall see that it does not reach that point." His arms uncross and go behind his back again in a more formal gesture and he clears his throat. "Then the matter is settled for the time being. As soon as I have arranged this meeting, I shall let both yourself Lord Ovor and Thane Braldor know of the time and location, though it will of course be a closed session."
"There is also one other thing you should be aware of, my lord, though it is nothing to do with this situation. It involved Hildis daughter of Hilvar, of Barazin. It is the Baruk Narag handling the matter of her arrest now, but should you require any correspondence with Barazin on this particular matter, the lass has asked me to look into the matter on her behalf and I shall be doing so."
[Ovor(#20753)] The Thane nods slightly. "Ah, yes, I heard of the matter from Filur. Caught with a letter no Dwarf would like to be caught with, I believe?" An eyebrow is arched briefly by Ovor. "Filur has offered his services to the Lord Gimli to assist in the catching of Bokin, I believe his name was. I was rather shocked to hear of a Dwarf carrying such a letter, but I do hope it turns out for the best."
"I have only just begun investigating the matter myself, my lord," Frarin nods as he replies. "And I am not well acquainted with Hildis, though I know of her father to an extent. But she is connected with several others I know and she has thus asked for my aid, as a elder member of her own clan. Simply so you know of my involvement. And if you discover any more information concerning her arrest, I would appreciate knowing of it."
[Ovor(#20753)] "Filur was the one that made the initial move to arrest her, I believe, since she was meeting with Bokin though he turned her over to the Narag." So says Ovor, looking to Frarin. "As I understand it, Bokin has been a problem Filur has been trying to deal with for some time, and though he did not get Bokin, the letter this Hildis was carrying..." The Thane shakes his head slightly. "He is convinced she is one of his associates, though his only proof at the moment is the letter."
[Frarin] "And she was given the letter by another, according to her testimony," Frarin replies, nodding. "A suspect claim, of course, and one that you might expect in such circumstances, except that she claims it was given her by Ranor son of Dwanor, with whom I have had dealings. I shall make no assumptions, but Dwanor's son is indeed known for more underhanded dealings. Still, I shall say no more of it until I have had a chance to speak with the Lord Gimli and see what the Narag has thus far uncovered."
And with that Frarin gives Ovor and the other two a deep bow. "That is all I wished to speak with you about, my lord. Unless you have ought else to speak of, I shall let you return to your work."
[Ovor(#20753)] Ovor shakes his head slightly. "No, for now, that is all. It is good to see you back in Erebor, however." A brief flicker of a smile passes over the Thane's face before he nods to Farak. The Doorward stands, opening the door to the Thingstead. "I hope that next time we meet, it will be under better cicumstances."
[Frarin] "Thank you, my lord, I am pleased to be returned, and to find you well." And with another bow, Frarin farewells the Thane. "Perhaps when next we meet I may better come to know some of Keeneye's brews, for which you are so full of priase. Good evening, my lord, Master Belur, Master Khaur." A nod is given Farak, but then the silversmith is leaving the Thane's chambers and disappearing into the crowds in the Thingstead beyond.
Players: Frarin, Ovor, Belur, Khaur
Located in: Erebor
