[X] No
I have no need to spend time and favour on a mere trinket, not when we already have our One Ring.
... But if we had to make an item, I have no doubt what I would want:
-[X] 18 Favours
-[X] Ring
-[X] Show them the Seed of Regrowth and the Liber Mortis, ask to have a item that can bring the dead back to life.
This is our best bet to bring Abelheim back without delving into mindbreaking necromancy! Also, let this be a reason to have the other "No" voters write in their desired items.
What are the odds we might run into Asarnil (Dragon guy, I can't remember his name.) and recruit him?
It's bigger than zero!
[X] Many mercenaries look for work at Barak Varr among trades looking to make the long and dangerous trip to the east. See if any can be convinced to join the Expedition instead.
[X] You've heard that greatswords and greataxes are very similar in the way they're used, and you happen to be surrounded by experts in the art of the axe. Learn how to use one.
Yes, I still wanna kill things better. In theory, sufficient martial could've saved Van Hal.
[X] Test their skills in battle by sparring with them.
Mathilde is one of the more martial Magisters out there, might as well show them how things are done. Let's teach them how to sword things properly!
[X] Introduce him to the dwarven smiths so he can try to convince them to teach him.
Yes, we
could use some of our Favours on this but
I need all I can get to reach artifact necromancy it is more fitting if the apprentice himself could earn the dwarves favour.
[X] Barak Varr is a trading hub; go shopping with her and employ your good name among dwarves to see if there's seeds of anything useful to be found.
... Honestly, this is just because I want to see a girl shopping scene.