The Precipice of Significant Change
Whenever Zurri's mind turned to his company of dwarves, both fear and guilt would root him to the spot. He dared not face them again, and spent numerous weeks in Bree-land tarrying, delaying the date that he would confront them. The dwarf presumed that his remaining companions still awaited him in the Chetwood, as Balthnar did say they would, but he could not be certain. For Zurri sensed their loyalty to him had waned when last they were together.
He had not told them of his return, his loyal comrades. For all they did know Zurri was either still at his father's bedside, making funeral arrangements, or on his return journey to the company. Still, the dwarf could delay nay much further. Time pressed in upon him from all sides, and Zurri's business in the west had long since concluded by now. But could he forsake the newest friendships he had forged?
Of late, Zurri spent his limited time in the Bree-land aiding those he would now call friend. He did reunite with Elias Dimheim of the Blackbirth Soothery in the town of Knotwood, and gave onto him much coin so that his establishment could thrive. Additionally, lumber was chopped and carried to the place with the assistance of Master Balnirar, so that the fires of the soothery might roar and warm the sick and wounded. Zurri also happened upon his dear friend Kithri, who had herself come to the Bree-land on business of her own, and they reciprocated warm greetings. Then, he did exchange introductions with the mysterious ranger, Aeruthuil, perceived guard of sorts to Elias, and Zurri worked hard to eventually name him friend also. However, twice they near came to blows!
Evenings were spent in the same establishment his father used to frequent; the inn of The Prancing Pony, in Bree-town. However, Zurri would not drink himself drunk, nor brawl with the patronage. Instead, he'd politely engage with the locals, and it was in doing this he encountered the fair and friendly Alyosha. Soon enough, the fine fellow did offer his services in Zurri's travel, which lifted the spirits of the dwarf, and did give him cause to hope once again.
The following evening, Kithri also let it be known she would accompany Zurri eastwards. Then, soon after that, Elias expressed his own interest in the adventure. Aeruthuil, however, was not so easily swayed, and this marked the second time Zurri and the ranger would exchange harsh words. Nevertheless, if Elias were to act as healer upon the travel, it would be expected that Aeruthuil would perhaps join the party in the wilds. But that matter was yet to be decided.
Should Zurri's dwarven party have forsaken him in the lands of men, then the dwarf at least felt content that Kithri and Alyosha would make more-than-worthy companions. With the addition of those he discovered before, a party of three to four travelers would ensure they have a quiet presence in the wilds - which is key to avoiding trouble! For now it seemed, all was near enough well, save for one or two grey areas. As Zurri stood upon the precipice of significant change, hope dared to stir within him.
However, it wouldn't be enough to counter the horrors Zurri was yet to bear witness to, nor temper the overwhelming grief he would soon be lost within...
