Elendor
Dwarven Clan Feud!
A meeting between the thanes of Bundazanul and Zinbar quickly turns sour.
Sort Date: no date set
Location: Erebor - Zinbar
Game Date: Late November
Description: [Ovor(#20753)] Outside, dawn is rising over the lands of manlings and Elves. Unlike most times of day, this one has meaning for the Dwarves, as most of them under the Mountain are waking up and going to be going about their business. Some, however, are already up and waiting for business to get started. Ovor, Thane Zinbar, and two of his Elders, Filur and Belur, are amongst these. The Thane sits behind his desk while the two Elders stand beside him, all three conversing in quiet tones on the desk before them is a plate of mugs, filled with one brew of Keeneye's or another, no doubt.
At the door to the Thingstead, the Thane's Doorward waits patiently for someone to arrive, smoothing his tabard before waiting once more. The door is open, for the moment, to allow him to keep an eye out for those the Thane is expecting.
[Braldor(#30149)] From the Greathall a dwarf clad in a blue cloak comes inside the Zinbar Thingstead. He seems, however, not to know his way very well, as he stops several times as if he were looking for someone, or for something. Indeed, this is Braldor, Thane Bundazanul, and for his to be visiting some other clan's abode is quite rare. Finally, he seems to spot what he was looking for, and makes his way towards the door of Ovor's Chhambers, where the Doorward awaits.
Ranol is trailing his thane, a carefully masked expression of disinterest on his face. He knows his way around well enough, and is about to speak up when Braldor figures it out. The huskarl remains quiet as he follows the thane to the door of Ovor's chambers.
[Ovor(#20753)] When the Doorward spots Braldor and Ranol, he smooths his tabard briefly once more, bowing his head to the Thane once Braldor is close enough. "Thane Bundazanul. My lord Ovor awaits you within refresment has been provided." Words said, he stands aside the door, ready to close it once the Bundazanul party is within.
As Ovor hears his Doorward speak, he stands from his chair, silent his face and those of his Advisors are carefully schooled, looking more like statues.
[Braldor(#30149)] "Ah, many thanks", Braldor replies to the Doorward, as he comes in. "A good day to ye, Zinbar", he greets Ovor, who he already knows, "and fine gentledwarves of Zinbar", he adds to the two elders he doesn't know. "I am Braldor, Thane Bundazanul, at yer service", he says with a bow. Braldor's face is calm, and his manner relaxed, at least for the moment.
Ranol stops a few steps from the door, offering a respectful bow to those that are gathered, recognizing Filur. Belur is a new face. The huskarl takes up a casual defensive stance by the door then, serving as guard for now. His face is still blank of his thoughts but his blue eyes travel over the other dwarves, taking careful note of where everyone is sitting, how they are armed.. the usual routine he follows.
[Ovor(#20753)] "I do not like the fact that these are the circumstances we must under, though there is little that can be done about that." The Thane Zinbar shrugs slightly before he motions to the two Elders, both of whom give a simple 'at your service' in response. "These are two of my advisors, Filur Sharptongue and Belur the Just." The two Dwarves bow their heads slightly before Ovor motions to the chairs. "Please, sit, and have a drink."
The Thane puts actions to words, sitting once more in his chair before he takes a mug himself. "So, shall we get down to the matter in question? This... matter concerning Siv and Thari."
[Braldor(#30149)] Braldor follows suit, sitting comfortably on a chair and grabbing one of the ales that lie on the platter. "Well, indeed", he replies, as he sits back on his chair, making the wood crack a little, "lets get down to business. A most disgusting event it was, Zinbar, and indeed in yer letter ye speak truly. We do not want this to become something too big, and take it to the Court where a heavy punishment might be issued", he says, as his dark eyes stray for a bit to Filur, before coming back to Ovor. "So... what have ye to say, ovor? I am quite keen on listening to the wisdom of the Zinbar for this case".
[Ovor(#20753)] "You will understand, Braldor, that it is not the slap that is of serious concern rather, it is the insult done to Siv and our clan that is the concern. To our knowledge, Thari has not spoken of where she heard the rumours or if, indeed, they could be linked to Siv at all?" The Zinbar Thane arches an eyebrow for a brief moment before he takes a drink from his mug.
"Siv herself would be satisfied with an apology from Thari for the unprovoked attack. She has expressed willingness to swear an oath that she has spoken no ill of your clanswomen, and we Zinbar take such things seriously."
As Filur is looked at by the other Thane, he merely gives a slightly wintery smile before he picks up a mug of his own. Belur remains silent for the moment, listening as his eyes flick between Ovor and Braldor.
[Braldor(#30149)] "I see", Braldor replies, and then he takes a si of his ale. "So, ye're giving for granted that Thari's accusations are unjustified? May I ask, then, what assurance Bundazanul has of this?", he adds. "AFor as ye say that Zinbar takes vows very seriously, which I do not doubt, being such an honorable clan, we Bundazanuls also take great pride in our honor, and it's not our custom to lie about things like this".
[Ovor(#20753)] "I know Thari I like to consider her a friend. I would not believe, under usual circumstances, she would lie. And we are not suggesting that now. She may have been lied to, however for what purpose, I do not know. Someone may wish to stir up animosity between the clans, or simply to cause trouble." The Thane pauses, to take another drink Belur speaks now, voice soft but carrying well.
"The main thing is, Thane Braldor, is that she has not revealed her source that can mean that it is either not entirely trustworthy or that she does not have one. I believe it is the former rather than the latter, though I have had no dealings with your clanswoman so I cannot say for certain."
[Braldor(#30149)] "Well then", Braldor says after a moment of reflection, which he also used to imbibe more of the ale, "wouldn't it be best to ask Thari? Certainly, she would be the one to ask as to who told her that Siv was spreading lies and rumors about her", he adds, as his eyes go from ovor to Belur. "I think, indeed, that this should be done before talking about vows and aspologies. Surely", he says, as his dark eyes go back to Thane Zinbar, "whoever chose to spread all this lies wanted to stir enmity between Bundazanul and Zinbar, and /that/, I think is really what we ought to look upon further".
[Ovor(#20753)] "It would, indeed... we may figure out /what/ rumours and lies are being spread that Thari would believe, and their source." Ovor nods his head, setting his mug briefly upon his desk as Filur speaks for the first time, words quiet and thoughtful. "Who would be to gain the most from such a thing? The main trade between our clans is in lumber and leathergoods."
"Know you if Thari is readily available to ask the question to, Thane Braldor?" Belur speaks once more, eyes upon the other Thane, a white eyebrow arched slightly in question.
[Braldor(#30149)] "Indeed, we shall see to that", Braldor concurs, nodding eanestly to Ovor. Belur speaks again, and the Thance Bundazanul shifts his eyes to regard the Zinbar elder. "I'm afraid that I cannot go and fetch Thari right now, honorable Belur... however, I shall ask her to come and talk with ye and Thane Zinbar at the earliest. However", he adds, and now his gaze shifts once more, this time to regard his Huskarl, Ranol, "I have brought someone who has shared with me some information regarding Siv, which might be important to know at this point. Ranol", he adds, beckoning the Huskarl to come forth, "please tell these fine dwarves about Siv, what ye have learned about her ways during our last trip to the lands of the West".
Ranol doesn't seem terribly surprised that his thane is calling on him, or if he is he hides it well. He steps forward now, bowing again to Ovor and his advisors. "Lord Ovor, it is always a pleasure to see you." He says politely, then takes a moment to think on what Braldor has requested. "The last time I came here was to speak with you, Thane Ovor, about Siv. If you remember, I was reassuring you that nothing further was developing between myself and Siv beyond that first dinner we shared, and she had some.. different ideas on marriage and relationships."
Again, the huskarl takes pause, a reluctance on his face now. "I don't enjoy speaking of people beyond their knowledge. I never came back to speak with you because I never thought it neccessary. Now, perhaps, I should share some of what she has said, because it does support her inattention to truth that Thari accuses."
"More than once Siv has spoken to others that we are to be wed, she even mentioned it to Lord Gimli when the incident took place. She has talked as if we were already engaged and even made it out as if I was the one doing the pursuing. None of this is true. We only had the one dinner, and since then not once have I showed any interest in anything more than friendship with her." The huskarl pauses, glancing between Ovor and Braldor to see if they wish more elaboration.
[Ovor(#20753)] Ovor nods slightly, sharing glances between the two advisors before he nods once more. "Aye, I do have some knowledge of this. I have spoken with her on her... idea of marriage and such." The Thane Zinbar shrugs slightly, finishing his drink. "I was not aware she was continuing to do such I had thought I had made it clear to her."
It is Belur that speaks next. "Even so, that does not completely excuse your clanswoman's actions. Unless she was well into her cups, or something else entirely was going on, such a reaction was... not appropriate." Filur speaks once more. "If you would like, Thane Braldor, we can send a messenger to see if Thari is available for questioning? I believe it is in both clans interestests to resolve this swiftly, so if there is indeed someone that wishes to disrupt the relationship between Zinbar and Bundazanul, we can deal with them appropriately."
[Braldor(#30149)] "Oh, by all means, Master Filur", Braldor says. "Yet I thought it important that we know that Siv is sometimes a bit.... liberal with the trust, shall we say? But indeed, fetch Thari, so that we can question her about all this".
You paged Thari with 'Umm, mostly Zinbar is trying to pin it on some other conspirator.. Braldor is playing nice but thus far refusing to collect Thari.. Ranol is more or less discrediting Siv's ability to tell the truth..'.
"Lord Ovor, she has been claiming there is nothing between us to me, and then speaking to others that we were all but saying vows to Mahal. I thought she might be discouraged by my disinterest, but I have heard her speak badly to me of Thari and Frarin before." The huskarl bows again and steps back, now that the command has been given for Thari to be collected.
[Ovor(#20753)] Filur nods slightly, motioning to the Doorward. "Go and seek Thari of Bundazanul and have her come here there are questions we wish to ask." Farak, the Doorward, nods his head before heading out into the Thingstead and towards the Great Hall.
"Hopefully, we can resolve this swiftly without the need for it to go further than ourselves." Ovor's words are quiet as his gaze flicks between those assembled before they come to rest upon Ranol. "Of Thari and Frarin but neither individually? There is a difference between... expressing oneself about a pair than one."
"Were you not quick to react yourself, Lord Ovor, when there were innocent rumors spreading through our travel camp that Siv and I might be involved? Is that not the business of a pair?" Ranol asks in return, his voice soft. "I remember our meeting quite well, though it was only over a small dinner."
[Braldor(#30149)] "Indeed, there is a difference, for this will involve not only Bundazanul, but perhaps Barazin also", Braldor says, and then takes a long pull from the mug of ale, practically draining it. "I'm sure Zinbar would not like the enmity of two of Erebor's biggest clans, over something that might be just a young dwarf wagging her tongue a bit too much", he adds. Then Ranol speaks his bit, and his Thane nods. "Indeed, this habit of Siv is what has me greatly troubled, for indeed if she has been spreading rumors of Thari and some other, then it will have severe repercussions".
[Ovor(#20753)] "I wished to know of your intentions, Ranol we were not in Erebor, so there was little luxary that could be taken in regards with time. I will not deny that Siv's manner is... unusual." The Zinbar Thane pauses for several moments, looking back to Braldor. "Zinbar will do what it must to ensure that /true/ justice is done."
"A Dwarf may give opinion upon two as they see fit it is unfortunate that one of those pair is part of the... situation. It does not immediately mean that Siv is inclined to spread rumours about either one. Do keep that in mind." Belur's words are soft as he looks between those in the room Filur remains silent for the moment.
Ranol keeps his gaze on Ovor for a long moment, his blue eyes searching. Then when the Zinbar shifts his attention to Braldor the huskarl averts his own attention.
[Braldor(#30149)] "Be that as it may, still she's spreading unwanted rumors about other dwarves, and this is something that must be tackled immediately", Braldor counters. "Bundazanul wants as much as Zinbar for justice to be done in this, yet it seems important to me that we do know all the facts... among them the liberties that young Siv takes sometimes with what she says. It's a very delicate manner to go about talking about others, specially if it's not a praise".
[Ovor(#20753)] Filur's gaze flicks to Ranol, eyes sharp before he speaks. "When Siv spoke to you of Thari and this... Frarin, was it rumours or opinion? Give no quick answer and speak truely."
"If that is the case, then we will ensure Siv takes the proper steps." Says Belur, gaze briefly flicked towards Filur before it moves back to Braldor. "As you say, we must know all the facts. We do not, currently. Quick judgement may work amongst the worlds of Men and Elves, but we shall make no such thing here."
"Rumors are opinion.. more often than not. How am I to distinguish between the two?" The huskarl asks Filur in response, taking little time to think on his answer. "When she spoke against them I disagreed and changed the subject, which is what I usually do in such situations."
[Braldor(#30149)] Braldor merely nods to Filur and Belur, as he now finishes his ale. "Well, when we get Thari here, we will know", he says in reply to them, and then looks at Ranol, nodding to him in approval of his words.
[Ovor(#20753)] "Rumours usually involve the words 'I hear', 'they say' or 'I have heard', Huskarl. Opinion is more noted for the words 'I think', 'I believe' and 'It is my opinion' and generally do not use the others in such manners as they are used in rumours." A scowl comes upon Filur's face for a moment. "For instance, 'I hear that a Bundazanul smacked a Zinbar' is different from 'It is my opinion that the Huskarl did not give proper thought to his answer'."
Ovor holds up a hand to cut off Filur, sending a sharp glance his way. "Filur speaks, perhaps, more hasty than he might otherwise. As my political advisor, this situation has given him much to think upon."
"I heard that an advisor of Thane Ovor was shouting insults at a Bundazanul in the middle of her Thingstead.. ?" The huskarl asks in a questioning tone, looking at Filur. "Is that the nature? As opposed to, 'I think that an advisor calling my dear friend and cousin stupid and foolish in front of my kin was in poor taste..'?" Ranol narrows his brow faintly, the first hint of anger he's shown.
[Braldor(#30149)] "Well, Master Ranol, it seems ye now know the difference", Braldor interjects in an appeasing tone. "Perhaps it'd be better to wait for Thari... lets not get sidetrascked by other... unfortunate events", he adds, with a sidelong glance at Filur.
[Thari(#31038)]
There is a knock on the door, and then it opens. There are three dwarves beyond: the door-ward, Thari, and an older dwarf who resembles her so closely that it must be a relation. Those who know him will recognise Balur, son of Bolur.
[Ovor(#20753)] "Quit acting like a pair of beardlings." Snaps the Zinbar Thane, eyes flicking between Ranol and Filur. The Elder falls silent, save for a disgruntled glance at Ovor for the use of the term 'beardling' to describe him. As the Doorward returns with Thari, and Balur, in tow, the Thane Zinbar nods his head to Thari slightly.
"So pleased you could join us... perhaps now we will get some matters figured out."
[Braldor(#30149)] Braldor smile as Balur makes his appearance behind Thari, and nods as Ovor speaks. "Indeed, come in, come in! make yerselves comfortable! We're having a little chat, and needed to ask ye some things, my fine lass", he adds, referring obviously to Thari.
[Thari(#31038)]
Balur bows, just as Thari does, and as he arises his hand places on his daughter's shoulder. "Ah, Braldor, so glad to see you here."
Thari nods to them all after she bows, smiling a little, taking brief glances at the Zinbar group. "The same things ye already asked, my Lord?" she asks with some quiet worry of Braldor as she and her father move toward a pair of chairs.
Ranol grows quiet, stepping back behind Braldor again and resuming more of a guard position again. He glances at Thari, but doesn't hold her gaze for more than a moment, and both her and her father are given a quick bow.
[Braldor(#30149)] "More or less, lass, more or less", Braldor replies with a slight chuckle. "But I'll let Thane Zinbar ask ye what he wants, with perhaps a question o' mine here and there", he adds, his eyes going from Thari to Ovor.
[Ovor(#20753)] "What I and my advisors here need to know, Thari, is what is your... source for these 'rumours' that led to you assaulting and insulting our clanswoman, Siv. This is a serious matter, so do not respond hastily." Filur and Belur are silent, eyes upon the new pair of Bundazanul, Filur sipping at his mug.
[Thari(#31038)]
'Assault.' Thari's eyes start to narrow on Ovor. There is a faint shifting of cloth-- Balur her father is simply settling himself more comfortably into her chair. He is watching his daughter.
Thari answers, meek and with a helpful air. "Eirdis, daughter of Jarl. Of Mazarbul, isn't she?" She glances at Ranol.
Ranol nods at Thari's question. His face is blank now, the anger with Filur earlier carefully managed.
[Ovor(#20753)] "And what is her source?" Asks Belur, quiet voice carrying well. "Second-hand information is often twisted and changed, especially if that person heard it from someone that has heard it from someone else." Ovor remains silent for the moment, eyes flicking between Thari and Balur before he leans back somewhat in his chair.
[Thari(#31038)]
Thari's eyes go between Belur and Ovor. She straightens and her head tilts at a bit of a prouder angle. "She told me, but I do not recall. Only for the vicious lies about me, that is-- for her lies about Ranol, she told them to me herself."
Balur quietly reaches over and pats the back of his daughter's wrist once, nodding his head at her.
[Ovor(#20753)] "If she heard it from someone else, rather than directly from Siv, does not the posibility exist that those rumours could have been spread deliberately by a third party? Someone that wished, perhaps, to damage your reputation knowing your feelings about Siv and what might cause you to act rather... inapropriately." So says Belur before Ovor speaks up once more. "Or it could have been someone that wished to damage relations between the clans you just happened to be the easiest method to do so."
Ranol flicks a glance towards Thari when she mentions his name, but his gaze doesn't linger. He has a faint crease of irritation to his brow whenever his blue eyes wander to Filur. Mostly his attention is on Ovor, now. It's as if he's weighing everything the Thane says.
[Braldor(#30149)] "That the Mazarbul try to damage our relation I doubt", Braldor interjects, as he shakes his head slowly. "Barazin might have an economic interest in damaging our relation, but I don't see any advantage ofr the Mazarbul. And to think a mazarbul would place herself as pawn of a Barazin is just... to strange", he adds, and then grows silent.
[Thari(#31038)]
"Inappropriately?" Thari repeats in quiet protest. Her fingers curl on the chair's arms. "A woman who has been lying to me repeatedly, and then I hear that she is also lying /about/ me over something quite grave, so I smacked her?" Balur is frowning deeply. Thari's eyes turn to her own Thane beseechingly.
[Ovor(#20753)] "Or someone within our clans we can not know what our clandwarves think at all times. You are correct in that Mazarbul would not have much to gain from it though I do not have an opinion upon the Barazin." It is Filur that speaks, his eyes flicking to Braldor. "Though it would have to be someone that knows one or both participants, I would imagine."
Ovor's eyes narrow slightly as Thari speaks. "You have /heard/ that she was lying about you. You have no firm, absolute proof that says that Siv has done this, beyond any doubt. This is no simple tavern brawl, Thari you have levelled an insult at the Zinbar clan by making these claims. And claims they are, until proved beyond doubt."
Ranol continues to stand quietly, though his gaze shifts restlessly between the various parties as they speak. Filur's words are given a direct stare, but the huskarl keeps his mouth shut.
[Braldor(#30149)] Braldor's eyesbrow shoots up. "Well, Zinbar, it seemed to me that we were going to ask questions to get to the bottom of this, not make accusations", he says, and now his voice loses some of its warmth, turning a bit to iron. "For if it's accusations which shall be dealt, then please let me know, and dealt they will be".
[Thari(#31038)]
Thari's brows lift as she looks at Ovor. "But... she did lie. I just told you this. About how I did hear some lies from my own ears-- just not about me. About my kinsman." Her attention is given instead to Braldor now.
Balur nods quite approvingly to the Bundazanul Thane. "My daughter dealt with one lady alone and did not say one thing about an entire clan. But-- should this be a matter handled between the Thanes? Do you still need her?"
[Ovor(#20753)] Belur, rather forcefully, puts his mug down upon the tray that brought them, producing a clatter and spilling of ale from the mugs still there. "We deal with only facts here accusations are not made until there is proof." The Elder's eyes flicks to all the Dwarves in the room before he straightens some.
"So you heard from Eirdis of Mazarbul these rumours. And you have also, apparently, heard falsehoods from Siv herself. Did you consider dealing with the matter through speaking, or did you let your temper get the better of you? We are Dwarves, it is true, and our tempers often master us I will readily admit, for I cannot deny it. But did you consider the rumours before you decided to... handle the matter?"
Filur scowls, his eyes flicking to Braldor. "Questions are being asked, Thane Braldor. We are simply stating things how they stand at the moment, though they may come across as accusations." The Advisor's eyes flick then to Balur. "She did not say one thing about the clan but we are a small clan, and to accuse one of us of something is to accuse the clan. While I do not doubt you larger clans do not protect your clandwarves... you can be more loose of hand in such matters."
Ovor remains silent for several moments, eyes flicking between his advisors before he speaks once more. "You said yourself, Braldor, that this could be an attempt to disrupt the situation between our clans. Do not accelerate it by this whole matter degenerating into slinging accusations."
[Braldor(#30149)] Braldor stands up now, his face red and eyes sparkling like a furnace. "Ye dare say we of Bundazanul do not take care o' our own?", he says, his voice low, like a growl. "I will not remain seated here, while such vile accusations are being said, and in me own face! I shall require a retribution for this dishonor, for me, and for the whole of Bundazanul!", he says, as he motions for Thari and Balur to stand, and then casting a meaningful glance towards Ranol. "Until I hear that this one", he says, omitting Filur's name, yet pointing a finger straight at him, "has been duly reprimanded, all talks about this incident with Siv and any other matter will be put on hold. No Bundazanul will talk to a Zinbar, until this one pleas for our pardon".
The Thane then turns. "Think better in selecting yer advisors, Zinbar. One more like that one, and we might have more trouble between us. Good day!", he adds, and without further word he strides out of Ovor's chambers, head held high.
The huskarl wastes no time following after his Thane, leaving his relatives behind. His duty to Braldor comes before Balur and Thari. He catches up quickly, drawing up beside Braldor as he hurridly limps.
Ranol speaks in a soft tone, a harsh whisper, "Thari and I have both heard lies from Siv, about personal matters of varying degrees. Eirdis was insistant on speaking with me about things regarding Siv, as well, but she did not get the chance earlier today." Ranol keeps his voice soft and calm, but tries to make an impression, "It seems that maybe the situation is what it is.. A dwarf was lying, another got mad and defended their honor. The only evidence I have heard of clan rivalries being sowed were from the Zinbar themselves and I suggested to Thari earlier that Filur might be trying to force dischord with his ways."
[Thari(#31038)]
Thari stands and her father right behind. Balur has a protective hand behind his daughter's back as they follow after Braldor out the door. Thari is watching Ranol curiously.
[Ovor(#20753)] "Think of what you are doing, Thane!" Speaks Belur, voice raising to follow after the Bundazanul Thane. "You would rather drive a rift between the clans than put up with the Sharptongue for a little while!"
"If that is your choice, Bundazanul... all leather trade between Zinbar and Bundazanul is hereby severed. We shall get our lumber from our trading partners in Dale and the Long Lake it is no major loss for us."
[Braldor(#30149)] "That is what ye think, Zinbar... we shall see if it's that easy when put to the test!", Braldor replies, not looking back. "And of a rift doth exist, 'tis but ofr yer foolish advisor there that it was created. Let all know how Zinbar treats their guests, spreading foul lies about them!", he adds, and then he exits the room, his heavy boots sounding heasvily.
At the door to the Thingstead, the Thane's Doorward waits patiently for someone to arrive, smoothing his tabard before waiting once more. The door is open, for the moment, to allow him to keep an eye out for those the Thane is expecting.
[Braldor(#30149)] From the Greathall a dwarf clad in a blue cloak comes inside the Zinbar Thingstead. He seems, however, not to know his way very well, as he stops several times as if he were looking for someone, or for something. Indeed, this is Braldor, Thane Bundazanul, and for his to be visiting some other clan's abode is quite rare. Finally, he seems to spot what he was looking for, and makes his way towards the door of Ovor's Chhambers, where the Doorward awaits.
Ranol is trailing his thane, a carefully masked expression of disinterest on his face. He knows his way around well enough, and is about to speak up when Braldor figures it out. The huskarl remains quiet as he follows the thane to the door of Ovor's chambers.
[Ovor(#20753)] When the Doorward spots Braldor and Ranol, he smooths his tabard briefly once more, bowing his head to the Thane once Braldor is close enough. "Thane Bundazanul. My lord Ovor awaits you within refresment has been provided." Words said, he stands aside the door, ready to close it once the Bundazanul party is within.
As Ovor hears his Doorward speak, he stands from his chair, silent his face and those of his Advisors are carefully schooled, looking more like statues.
[Braldor(#30149)] "Ah, many thanks", Braldor replies to the Doorward, as he comes in. "A good day to ye, Zinbar", he greets Ovor, who he already knows, "and fine gentledwarves of Zinbar", he adds to the two elders he doesn't know. "I am Braldor, Thane Bundazanul, at yer service", he says with a bow. Braldor's face is calm, and his manner relaxed, at least for the moment.
Ranol stops a few steps from the door, offering a respectful bow to those that are gathered, recognizing Filur. Belur is a new face. The huskarl takes up a casual defensive stance by the door then, serving as guard for now. His face is still blank of his thoughts but his blue eyes travel over the other dwarves, taking careful note of where everyone is sitting, how they are armed.. the usual routine he follows.
[Ovor(#20753)] "I do not like the fact that these are the circumstances we must under, though there is little that can be done about that." The Thane Zinbar shrugs slightly before he motions to the two Elders, both of whom give a simple 'at your service' in response. "These are two of my advisors, Filur Sharptongue and Belur the Just." The two Dwarves bow their heads slightly before Ovor motions to the chairs. "Please, sit, and have a drink."
The Thane puts actions to words, sitting once more in his chair before he takes a mug himself. "So, shall we get down to the matter in question? This... matter concerning Siv and Thari."
[Braldor(#30149)] Braldor follows suit, sitting comfortably on a chair and grabbing one of the ales that lie on the platter. "Well, indeed", he replies, as he sits back on his chair, making the wood crack a little, "lets get down to business. A most disgusting event it was, Zinbar, and indeed in yer letter ye speak truly. We do not want this to become something too big, and take it to the Court where a heavy punishment might be issued", he says, as his dark eyes stray for a bit to Filur, before coming back to Ovor. "So... what have ye to say, ovor? I am quite keen on listening to the wisdom of the Zinbar for this case".
[Ovor(#20753)] "You will understand, Braldor, that it is not the slap that is of serious concern rather, it is the insult done to Siv and our clan that is the concern. To our knowledge, Thari has not spoken of where she heard the rumours or if, indeed, they could be linked to Siv at all?" The Zinbar Thane arches an eyebrow for a brief moment before he takes a drink from his mug.
"Siv herself would be satisfied with an apology from Thari for the unprovoked attack. She has expressed willingness to swear an oath that she has spoken no ill of your clanswomen, and we Zinbar take such things seriously."
As Filur is looked at by the other Thane, he merely gives a slightly wintery smile before he picks up a mug of his own. Belur remains silent for the moment, listening as his eyes flick between Ovor and Braldor.
[Braldor(#30149)] "I see", Braldor replies, and then he takes a si of his ale. "So, ye're giving for granted that Thari's accusations are unjustified? May I ask, then, what assurance Bundazanul has of this?", he adds. "AFor as ye say that Zinbar takes vows very seriously, which I do not doubt, being such an honorable clan, we Bundazanuls also take great pride in our honor, and it's not our custom to lie about things like this".
[Ovor(#20753)] "I know Thari I like to consider her a friend. I would not believe, under usual circumstances, she would lie. And we are not suggesting that now. She may have been lied to, however for what purpose, I do not know. Someone may wish to stir up animosity between the clans, or simply to cause trouble." The Thane pauses, to take another drink Belur speaks now, voice soft but carrying well.
"The main thing is, Thane Braldor, is that she has not revealed her source that can mean that it is either not entirely trustworthy or that she does not have one. I believe it is the former rather than the latter, though I have had no dealings with your clanswoman so I cannot say for certain."
[Braldor(#30149)] "Well then", Braldor says after a moment of reflection, which he also used to imbibe more of the ale, "wouldn't it be best to ask Thari? Certainly, she would be the one to ask as to who told her that Siv was spreading lies and rumors about her", he adds, as his eyes go from ovor to Belur. "I think, indeed, that this should be done before talking about vows and aspologies. Surely", he says, as his dark eyes go back to Thane Zinbar, "whoever chose to spread all this lies wanted to stir enmity between Bundazanul and Zinbar, and /that/, I think is really what we ought to look upon further".
[Ovor(#20753)] "It would, indeed... we may figure out /what/ rumours and lies are being spread that Thari would believe, and their source." Ovor nods his head, setting his mug briefly upon his desk as Filur speaks for the first time, words quiet and thoughtful. "Who would be to gain the most from such a thing? The main trade between our clans is in lumber and leathergoods."
"Know you if Thari is readily available to ask the question to, Thane Braldor?" Belur speaks once more, eyes upon the other Thane, a white eyebrow arched slightly in question.
[Braldor(#30149)] "Indeed, we shall see to that", Braldor concurs, nodding eanestly to Ovor. Belur speaks again, and the Thance Bundazanul shifts his eyes to regard the Zinbar elder. "I'm afraid that I cannot go and fetch Thari right now, honorable Belur... however, I shall ask her to come and talk with ye and Thane Zinbar at the earliest. However", he adds, and now his gaze shifts once more, this time to regard his Huskarl, Ranol, "I have brought someone who has shared with me some information regarding Siv, which might be important to know at this point. Ranol", he adds, beckoning the Huskarl to come forth, "please tell these fine dwarves about Siv, what ye have learned about her ways during our last trip to the lands of the West".
Ranol doesn't seem terribly surprised that his thane is calling on him, or if he is he hides it well. He steps forward now, bowing again to Ovor and his advisors. "Lord Ovor, it is always a pleasure to see you." He says politely, then takes a moment to think on what Braldor has requested. "The last time I came here was to speak with you, Thane Ovor, about Siv. If you remember, I was reassuring you that nothing further was developing between myself and Siv beyond that first dinner we shared, and she had some.. different ideas on marriage and relationships."
Again, the huskarl takes pause, a reluctance on his face now. "I don't enjoy speaking of people beyond their knowledge. I never came back to speak with you because I never thought it neccessary. Now, perhaps, I should share some of what she has said, because it does support her inattention to truth that Thari accuses."
"More than once Siv has spoken to others that we are to be wed, she even mentioned it to Lord Gimli when the incident took place. She has talked as if we were already engaged and even made it out as if I was the one doing the pursuing. None of this is true. We only had the one dinner, and since then not once have I showed any interest in anything more than friendship with her." The huskarl pauses, glancing between Ovor and Braldor to see if they wish more elaboration.
[Ovor(#20753)] Ovor nods slightly, sharing glances between the two advisors before he nods once more. "Aye, I do have some knowledge of this. I have spoken with her on her... idea of marriage and such." The Thane Zinbar shrugs slightly, finishing his drink. "I was not aware she was continuing to do such I had thought I had made it clear to her."
It is Belur that speaks next. "Even so, that does not completely excuse your clanswoman's actions. Unless she was well into her cups, or something else entirely was going on, such a reaction was... not appropriate." Filur speaks once more. "If you would like, Thane Braldor, we can send a messenger to see if Thari is available for questioning? I believe it is in both clans interestests to resolve this swiftly, so if there is indeed someone that wishes to disrupt the relationship between Zinbar and Bundazanul, we can deal with them appropriately."
[Braldor(#30149)] "Oh, by all means, Master Filur", Braldor says. "Yet I thought it important that we know that Siv is sometimes a bit.... liberal with the trust, shall we say? But indeed, fetch Thari, so that we can question her about all this".
You paged Thari with 'Umm, mostly Zinbar is trying to pin it on some other conspirator.. Braldor is playing nice but thus far refusing to collect Thari.. Ranol is more or less discrediting Siv's ability to tell the truth..'.
"Lord Ovor, she has been claiming there is nothing between us to me, and then speaking to others that we were all but saying vows to Mahal. I thought she might be discouraged by my disinterest, but I have heard her speak badly to me of Thari and Frarin before." The huskarl bows again and steps back, now that the command has been given for Thari to be collected.
[Ovor(#20753)] Filur nods slightly, motioning to the Doorward. "Go and seek Thari of Bundazanul and have her come here there are questions we wish to ask." Farak, the Doorward, nods his head before heading out into the Thingstead and towards the Great Hall.
"Hopefully, we can resolve this swiftly without the need for it to go further than ourselves." Ovor's words are quiet as his gaze flicks between those assembled before they come to rest upon Ranol. "Of Thari and Frarin but neither individually? There is a difference between... expressing oneself about a pair than one."
"Were you not quick to react yourself, Lord Ovor, when there were innocent rumors spreading through our travel camp that Siv and I might be involved? Is that not the business of a pair?" Ranol asks in return, his voice soft. "I remember our meeting quite well, though it was only over a small dinner."
[Braldor(#30149)] "Indeed, there is a difference, for this will involve not only Bundazanul, but perhaps Barazin also", Braldor says, and then takes a long pull from the mug of ale, practically draining it. "I'm sure Zinbar would not like the enmity of two of Erebor's biggest clans, over something that might be just a young dwarf wagging her tongue a bit too much", he adds. Then Ranol speaks his bit, and his Thane nods. "Indeed, this habit of Siv is what has me greatly troubled, for indeed if she has been spreading rumors of Thari and some other, then it will have severe repercussions".
[Ovor(#20753)] "I wished to know of your intentions, Ranol we were not in Erebor, so there was little luxary that could be taken in regards with time. I will not deny that Siv's manner is... unusual." The Zinbar Thane pauses for several moments, looking back to Braldor. "Zinbar will do what it must to ensure that /true/ justice is done."
"A Dwarf may give opinion upon two as they see fit it is unfortunate that one of those pair is part of the... situation. It does not immediately mean that Siv is inclined to spread rumours about either one. Do keep that in mind." Belur's words are soft as he looks between those in the room Filur remains silent for the moment.
Ranol keeps his gaze on Ovor for a long moment, his blue eyes searching. Then when the Zinbar shifts his attention to Braldor the huskarl averts his own attention.
[Braldor(#30149)] "Be that as it may, still she's spreading unwanted rumors about other dwarves, and this is something that must be tackled immediately", Braldor counters. "Bundazanul wants as much as Zinbar for justice to be done in this, yet it seems important to me that we do know all the facts... among them the liberties that young Siv takes sometimes with what she says. It's a very delicate manner to go about talking about others, specially if it's not a praise".
[Ovor(#20753)] Filur's gaze flicks to Ranol, eyes sharp before he speaks. "When Siv spoke to you of Thari and this... Frarin, was it rumours or opinion? Give no quick answer and speak truely."
"If that is the case, then we will ensure Siv takes the proper steps." Says Belur, gaze briefly flicked towards Filur before it moves back to Braldor. "As you say, we must know all the facts. We do not, currently. Quick judgement may work amongst the worlds of Men and Elves, but we shall make no such thing here."
"Rumors are opinion.. more often than not. How am I to distinguish between the two?" The huskarl asks Filur in response, taking little time to think on his answer. "When she spoke against them I disagreed and changed the subject, which is what I usually do in such situations."
[Braldor(#30149)] Braldor merely nods to Filur and Belur, as he now finishes his ale. "Well, when we get Thari here, we will know", he says in reply to them, and then looks at Ranol, nodding to him in approval of his words.
[Ovor(#20753)] "Rumours usually involve the words 'I hear', 'they say' or 'I have heard', Huskarl. Opinion is more noted for the words 'I think', 'I believe' and 'It is my opinion' and generally do not use the others in such manners as they are used in rumours." A scowl comes upon Filur's face for a moment. "For instance, 'I hear that a Bundazanul smacked a Zinbar' is different from 'It is my opinion that the Huskarl did not give proper thought to his answer'."
Ovor holds up a hand to cut off Filur, sending a sharp glance his way. "Filur speaks, perhaps, more hasty than he might otherwise. As my political advisor, this situation has given him much to think upon."
"I heard that an advisor of Thane Ovor was shouting insults at a Bundazanul in the middle of her Thingstead.. ?" The huskarl asks in a questioning tone, looking at Filur. "Is that the nature? As opposed to, 'I think that an advisor calling my dear friend and cousin stupid and foolish in front of my kin was in poor taste..'?" Ranol narrows his brow faintly, the first hint of anger he's shown.
[Braldor(#30149)] "Well, Master Ranol, it seems ye now know the difference", Braldor interjects in an appeasing tone. "Perhaps it'd be better to wait for Thari... lets not get sidetrascked by other... unfortunate events", he adds, with a sidelong glance at Filur.
[Thari(#31038)]
There is a knock on the door, and then it opens. There are three dwarves beyond: the door-ward, Thari, and an older dwarf who resembles her so closely that it must be a relation. Those who know him will recognise Balur, son of Bolur.
[Ovor(#20753)] "Quit acting like a pair of beardlings." Snaps the Zinbar Thane, eyes flicking between Ranol and Filur. The Elder falls silent, save for a disgruntled glance at Ovor for the use of the term 'beardling' to describe him. As the Doorward returns with Thari, and Balur, in tow, the Thane Zinbar nods his head to Thari slightly.
"So pleased you could join us... perhaps now we will get some matters figured out."
[Braldor(#30149)] Braldor smile as Balur makes his appearance behind Thari, and nods as Ovor speaks. "Indeed, come in, come in! make yerselves comfortable! We're having a little chat, and needed to ask ye some things, my fine lass", he adds, referring obviously to Thari.
[Thari(#31038)]
Balur bows, just as Thari does, and as he arises his hand places on his daughter's shoulder. "Ah, Braldor, so glad to see you here."
Thari nods to them all after she bows, smiling a little, taking brief glances at the Zinbar group. "The same things ye already asked, my Lord?" she asks with some quiet worry of Braldor as she and her father move toward a pair of chairs.
Ranol grows quiet, stepping back behind Braldor again and resuming more of a guard position again. He glances at Thari, but doesn't hold her gaze for more than a moment, and both her and her father are given a quick bow.
[Braldor(#30149)] "More or less, lass, more or less", Braldor replies with a slight chuckle. "But I'll let Thane Zinbar ask ye what he wants, with perhaps a question o' mine here and there", he adds, his eyes going from Thari to Ovor.
[Ovor(#20753)] "What I and my advisors here need to know, Thari, is what is your... source for these 'rumours' that led to you assaulting and insulting our clanswoman, Siv. This is a serious matter, so do not respond hastily." Filur and Belur are silent, eyes upon the new pair of Bundazanul, Filur sipping at his mug.
[Thari(#31038)]
'Assault.' Thari's eyes start to narrow on Ovor. There is a faint shifting of cloth-- Balur her father is simply settling himself more comfortably into her chair. He is watching his daughter.
Thari answers, meek and with a helpful air. "Eirdis, daughter of Jarl. Of Mazarbul, isn't she?" She glances at Ranol.
Ranol nods at Thari's question. His face is blank now, the anger with Filur earlier carefully managed.
[Ovor(#20753)] "And what is her source?" Asks Belur, quiet voice carrying well. "Second-hand information is often twisted and changed, especially if that person heard it from someone that has heard it from someone else." Ovor remains silent for the moment, eyes flicking between Thari and Balur before he leans back somewhat in his chair.
[Thari(#31038)]
Thari's eyes go between Belur and Ovor. She straightens and her head tilts at a bit of a prouder angle. "She told me, but I do not recall. Only for the vicious lies about me, that is-- for her lies about Ranol, she told them to me herself."
Balur quietly reaches over and pats the back of his daughter's wrist once, nodding his head at her.
[Ovor(#20753)] "If she heard it from someone else, rather than directly from Siv, does not the posibility exist that those rumours could have been spread deliberately by a third party? Someone that wished, perhaps, to damage your reputation knowing your feelings about Siv and what might cause you to act rather... inapropriately." So says Belur before Ovor speaks up once more. "Or it could have been someone that wished to damage relations between the clans you just happened to be the easiest method to do so."
Ranol flicks a glance towards Thari when she mentions his name, but his gaze doesn't linger. He has a faint crease of irritation to his brow whenever his blue eyes wander to Filur. Mostly his attention is on Ovor, now. It's as if he's weighing everything the Thane says.
[Braldor(#30149)] "That the Mazarbul try to damage our relation I doubt", Braldor interjects, as he shakes his head slowly. "Barazin might have an economic interest in damaging our relation, but I don't see any advantage ofr the Mazarbul. And to think a mazarbul would place herself as pawn of a Barazin is just... to strange", he adds, and then grows silent.
[Thari(#31038)]
"Inappropriately?" Thari repeats in quiet protest. Her fingers curl on the chair's arms. "A woman who has been lying to me repeatedly, and then I hear that she is also lying /about/ me over something quite grave, so I smacked her?" Balur is frowning deeply. Thari's eyes turn to her own Thane beseechingly.
[Ovor(#20753)] "Or someone within our clans we can not know what our clandwarves think at all times. You are correct in that Mazarbul would not have much to gain from it though I do not have an opinion upon the Barazin." It is Filur that speaks, his eyes flicking to Braldor. "Though it would have to be someone that knows one or both participants, I would imagine."
Ovor's eyes narrow slightly as Thari speaks. "You have /heard/ that she was lying about you. You have no firm, absolute proof that says that Siv has done this, beyond any doubt. This is no simple tavern brawl, Thari you have levelled an insult at the Zinbar clan by making these claims. And claims they are, until proved beyond doubt."
Ranol continues to stand quietly, though his gaze shifts restlessly between the various parties as they speak. Filur's words are given a direct stare, but the huskarl keeps his mouth shut.
[Braldor(#30149)] Braldor's eyesbrow shoots up. "Well, Zinbar, it seemed to me that we were going to ask questions to get to the bottom of this, not make accusations", he says, and now his voice loses some of its warmth, turning a bit to iron. "For if it's accusations which shall be dealt, then please let me know, and dealt they will be".
[Thari(#31038)]
Thari's brows lift as she looks at Ovor. "But... she did lie. I just told you this. About how I did hear some lies from my own ears-- just not about me. About my kinsman." Her attention is given instead to Braldor now.
Balur nods quite approvingly to the Bundazanul Thane. "My daughter dealt with one lady alone and did not say one thing about an entire clan. But-- should this be a matter handled between the Thanes? Do you still need her?"
[Ovor(#20753)] Belur, rather forcefully, puts his mug down upon the tray that brought them, producing a clatter and spilling of ale from the mugs still there. "We deal with only facts here accusations are not made until there is proof." The Elder's eyes flicks to all the Dwarves in the room before he straightens some.
"So you heard from Eirdis of Mazarbul these rumours. And you have also, apparently, heard falsehoods from Siv herself. Did you consider dealing with the matter through speaking, or did you let your temper get the better of you? We are Dwarves, it is true, and our tempers often master us I will readily admit, for I cannot deny it. But did you consider the rumours before you decided to... handle the matter?"
Filur scowls, his eyes flicking to Braldor. "Questions are being asked, Thane Braldor. We are simply stating things how they stand at the moment, though they may come across as accusations." The Advisor's eyes flick then to Balur. "She did not say one thing about the clan but we are a small clan, and to accuse one of us of something is to accuse the clan. While I do not doubt you larger clans do not protect your clandwarves... you can be more loose of hand in such matters."
Ovor remains silent for several moments, eyes flicking between his advisors before he speaks once more. "You said yourself, Braldor, that this could be an attempt to disrupt the situation between our clans. Do not accelerate it by this whole matter degenerating into slinging accusations."
[Braldor(#30149)] Braldor stands up now, his face red and eyes sparkling like a furnace. "Ye dare say we of Bundazanul do not take care o' our own?", he says, his voice low, like a growl. "I will not remain seated here, while such vile accusations are being said, and in me own face! I shall require a retribution for this dishonor, for me, and for the whole of Bundazanul!", he says, as he motions for Thari and Balur to stand, and then casting a meaningful glance towards Ranol. "Until I hear that this one", he says, omitting Filur's name, yet pointing a finger straight at him, "has been duly reprimanded, all talks about this incident with Siv and any other matter will be put on hold. No Bundazanul will talk to a Zinbar, until this one pleas for our pardon".
The Thane then turns. "Think better in selecting yer advisors, Zinbar. One more like that one, and we might have more trouble between us. Good day!", he adds, and without further word he strides out of Ovor's chambers, head held high.
The huskarl wastes no time following after his Thane, leaving his relatives behind. His duty to Braldor comes before Balur and Thari. He catches up quickly, drawing up beside Braldor as he hurridly limps.
Ranol speaks in a soft tone, a harsh whisper, "Thari and I have both heard lies from Siv, about personal matters of varying degrees. Eirdis was insistant on speaking with me about things regarding Siv, as well, but she did not get the chance earlier today." Ranol keeps his voice soft and calm, but tries to make an impression, "It seems that maybe the situation is what it is.. A dwarf was lying, another got mad and defended their honor. The only evidence I have heard of clan rivalries being sowed were from the Zinbar themselves and I suggested to Thari earlier that Filur might be trying to force dischord with his ways."
[Thari(#31038)]
Thari stands and her father right behind. Balur has a protective hand behind his daughter's back as they follow after Braldor out the door. Thari is watching Ranol curiously.
[Ovor(#20753)] "Think of what you are doing, Thane!" Speaks Belur, voice raising to follow after the Bundazanul Thane. "You would rather drive a rift between the clans than put up with the Sharptongue for a little while!"
"If that is your choice, Bundazanul... all leather trade between Zinbar and Bundazanul is hereby severed. We shall get our lumber from our trading partners in Dale and the Long Lake it is no major loss for us."
[Braldor(#30149)] "That is what ye think, Zinbar... we shall see if it's that easy when put to the test!", Braldor replies, not looking back. "And of a rift doth exist, 'tis but ofr yer foolish advisor there that it was created. Let all know how Zinbar treats their guests, spreading foul lies about them!", he adds, and then he exits the room, his heavy boots sounding heasvily.
Players: Braldor, Ovor, Filur, Belur, Balur, Thari, Ranol
Located in: Erebor
