Meanwhile, back at Finn-hold.... "Who doth summon me from my restless wanderings?" the deep booming voice inquired. "I b'leeve I stated that somewhere in there, but just to reassure you Master Conner, tis I - Gwidion mac Finn...your most humble and might I add loyal and trustworthy apprentice." Gwidion hoped that his spread for his former master was acceptable and pleasing. He'd spared no expense, immolating the haunch of a fine bull and several other things he knew Madath-Alluith to have been fond of in life. As if seeing into his thoughts, Connor answered. "Tis a fine offering...better than some I will not mention. Why is it you summon me, Gwidion mac Finn?" "It's 'bout that 'other one' - the one we don' nae like ta speak on, Master Connor. E's fixin ta summon ya again, ya know. E'll be wantin' ya ta help 'im attack us," Gwidion sighed. "I've a proposition fer ya, Master Connor." "Which is...?" "Thwart 'im. I'll gi' ye the ways ta do it an' the power ta resist 'is commands...but it has ta be like this...." Gwidion went on to explain what he had in mind. His plan brought forth a great cavernous laugh from the betrayed mage that frankly gave Gwidion the chills. But now was not the time to indulge in such things. "In addition," Gwidion sweetened the offer, "we've found yer grave where 'e so carelessly threw ya, wi'out so much as a 'fare thee well'. Ya help us defeat 'im as I've described, an' we'll see that yer buried proper with all due respects an' ceremonies. I'll see thet yer soul is released from 'is bondage, an' ya got proper clothes on yer bones." There was a long hissing sigh that filled the chamber, then a moment of silence. "Ya swear it, Gwidion mac Finn, do ya? On the blood o' yer ancestors?" "I swear it, my Master." "Ya ne'er gi' me no cause ta doubt ya, Gwidion. I accept, for I would be rid of this curse e's made fer me." ***** Will catch up here soon with comments. Thank you for coming by dear friends and may you have a week full of good things! Cheers, Rayvn