Thaddeus greeted each member of the company in turn as they gathered at the table. He let his eyes go over their faces, remembering how he had met them and what qualities in these individuals had made them stand out to him. This fellowship was a mixed bag in the end, but a potent one. [i]There's a lot of potential in these people,[/i] Thaddeus thought to himself. Thoraniel's outburst against Rook reminded him that there was plenty of potential for friction as well.

"Let's not start off on the wrong foot already," Thaddeus said, his voice cutting through the conversation like a hot knife through butter. "We're all here for the same purpose and, believe it or not, we're on the same side. Don't fight each other." He replied to Rook's exasperated look with a warning glance -- keep yourself to yourself. He knew Rook could be a troublemaker in the group without even intending it. The man was basically a firestone ready to cause a spark, and others like Thoraniel were kindling. 

The last member to sit down at the table, Celine, introduced herself. "Welcome, Celine," Thaddeus said and gave her his best welcoming smile. She had perhaps the most intriguing skill out of all of the gathered people here and one that Thaddeus personally knew very little about. Then again, Ghas' ironworking was beyond his understanding as well. The bear traps were impressive, though. 

"Now then, I believe that's everyone," he said and clapped his hands together. "I'm sure you've all noticed the sword that our new friend Edward is carrying. It's an orc blade, no doubt about it. He obtained it in Woodhaven, his hometown, when it was attacked by orcs. This is the first time the orcs have ventured out of the Dark Forest and into Brackenhorst and it is also our first clue and destination. Fortunately, Woodhaven is not far from here. I know some of you traveled a long way to be here but I'm afraid you'll only get one night of rest, so make sure it counts." Thaddeus pointedly looked at Rook, suspecting the man of all sorts of nightly shenanigans. He scraped back his chair and stood up, briefly towering over the seated company. 

"And remember, don't fight. Save your strength for the orcs. Meet me at the northeastern gate at dawn tomorrow. Get some rest soon. But first, let me buy you all a round of drinks." Thaddeus sauntered over to the bar and after a short conversation with the innkeeper and plenty of coin exchanging hands, a few serving girls brought each member of the fellowship a big mug of ale. Thaddeus sat down again and raised his ale. "To our quest and our health," he said and grinned.