The Green Dragon Inn - Part 10

[Beruthiel]

Daisy grinned as she said hello and introduced herself to the two other hobbit lasses. At least she wasn't alone now but the problem was, she feared she would forget their names within a few minutes...'Willow Overhill, Mirabell Baggins...Willow Overhill, Mirabell Baggins...' She repeated over in her head while she continued to smile at the two hobbits. She was trying so hard to remember their names she only realised that Willow had mentioned something about fiddles.

Daisy's entire family played an instrument of some kind but Daisy had never stuck to just one. She'd tried the fiddle but her small hands found it tiring holding up the wooden instrument after a while. In then end, she gave up trying to learn an instrument altogether and enjoyed singing a lot more.

Daisy turned towards Willow and noticed the twinkle in her eye. She was obviously a music lover as well.
"I don't play the fiddle, but you look like a fiddle player. Give us a tune, after all, this is meant to be a party isn't it?"

[Feared Half-Elf]

Elkamia, still sat quietly in a corner, drained her wine glass and stood up. She'd stayed here quite long enough, and she didn't see any point in staying longer than she had to. She really did hate parties.

Her green-blue eyes swept over the common room, taking in the three hobbit women by the bar and the other people still here, and pushed open the door to leave. Once outside, she found the great tree she had taken a liking to. It would usually only have taken her a moment to climb onto some of the lower branches, but she was wearing a dress, and the action took rather longer to complete. Finally she managed, the white fabric of her gown draping over a branch along with her feet. The evening breeze stirred her long hair, and the leaves above her moved gently too.

She began to sing, a beautiful song in her own elven tongue, that had been passed through the generations. Although many would not know what the words meant, they gave a sense of wellbeing. The party was gone from her mind, and there was only the melody and the words. She lost herself in her favourite song, the song she had sung all those years ago in Minas Tirith, as Elessar began his reign.

[Firefoot]

A hobbit lass of 17 years on a chestnut colored pony trotted up the road. Up ahead she could see a pleasant looking building with a sign that proclaimed it to be the Green Dragon Inn. That must be it, she thought. She could remember her uncle's words to her before she left: If you're looking for a place to stay while exploring the Shire, The Green Dragon's the place for you. A good, respectable inn is the Green Dragon. Presently, she became aware of a clear voice singing in an unfamiliar language. By the fairness of it she guessed it to be Elvish, though she herself had never heard it before. She listened to the song until she got to the inn, where she turned her pony over to a stablehand and prepared to enter the inn.

She took a deep breath and let it out. "Here goes," she whispered almost inaudibly. She walked into the Green Dragon and headed over to the bookkeeper to request a room. She was handed a card which read 126. She headed up to her room to put her few things away. It didn't take long and she was soon headed downstairs, eager to join the rest of the patrons.

Unsure of where to go, she stood against the wall on one side of the inn and watched the other people. Standing at three feet five inches, the lass considered herself rather tall, but she felt quite short compared to all Bigfolk in the room. Coming from Bree, this was not an unknown sentiment to her, but she particularly felt it because she knew no one in the room. She saw three other hobbit lasses across the room and was trying to decide whether she should join them or not. They looked like they were having an enjoyable time but she didn't want to intrude on them. The latter feeling took preferance so she decided not to go over there, at least not yet. It the mean time she could amuse herself watching everybody else.

[Mad Baggins]

Willow smiled, her eyes twinkling. "And what brings you to the Green Dragon, Mirabell Baggins?" Before Mira could get an answer in, Willow interrupted with another question: "And do either of you play the fiddle?"

The other hobbit, Daisy, replied, "I don't play the fiddle, but you look like a fiddle player. Give us a tune, after all this is a party!"

Mira replied, "I don't play the fiddle either, but I do play the flute." Bringing out the little flute she had in her pinny pocket, she showed it to the other hobbits. They nodded in appreciation and Mira put it back. Looking at Willow, she noticed a sparkle in her eyes, the kind of sparkle people get when they have a spectacular idea.

Mira giggled and said, "Okay, Willow. What are you thinking? That twinkle in your eyes says you've got an idea, so let's hear it."

[Eowyn Skywalker]

Willow grinned at the other two hobbits. "Okay, Willow," said Mira, "what are you thinking? That twinkle in your eyes says you've got an idea, so let's hear it."

Willow smiled. "Well," she began. "Aman asked me to play the fiddle later on tonight, for she said I did all right on the violin. However, I..." she paused, searching for the right word. "I freeze up when in front of everyone. However, I was thinking, that if you two were musical in any manner, you could join me. And it seems you are too."

She glanced over at Daisy. "You asked for a tune, ehh? One little thing here, can you sing? I'll play you one soon, if you'd like, but I'd like some acompaniment later. If we could come up with a tune that all three of us know... Mira, you could play the flute, and Daisy, you could sing. This could be... interesting."

She stopped as she heard someone enter the room, and another hobbit girl entered the room. "Or maybe four of us," she added. "I think we may have another girl joining us."

Willow handed her fiddle over to Daisy. "Hold this, please, and be careful with it," she said. "I'll go and see if this newcomer would like to join us, after all, we hobbit girls should stick together in such a place as the Green Dragon."

Willow walked over to the newcomer, and introduced herself. "I am Willow Overhill," she said. "Would you like to join Mira, Daisy and I to chat? After all, we hobbit girls should stick together."

She smiled, and walked the new girl over to their group, and waited for her to introduce herself.

[Firefoot]

The hobbit lass was still standing against the wall when she saw that one of the three hobbit girls she had seen earlier was getting up. She was thrilled when the lass walked right up to her, but she tried to stay calm. The girl said, "I am Willow Overhill. Would you like to join Mira, Daisy and I to chat? After all, we hobbit girls should stick together." They both smiled, and she followed Willow back over to where the other two were waiting and watching them with smiles on their faces.

"I'm Lily Thistlewool," she said. The other two introduced themselves as Daisy and Mira. Then she noticed the fiddle which was still sitting in Daisy's lap. "Do you play the fiddle?" Lily asked.

"Me? No, this is Willow's." Daisy replied, and handed the fiddle back to Willow. The three hobbits explained their idea of Willow and Mira playing their instruments and Daisy singing that night.

"Do you play an instrument too?" asked Mira.

"Yes, I've been playing the fiddle for a couple of years now," replied Lily. "My fiddle has been my most treasured belonging ever since -" she paused awkwardly. She hadn't meant to say so much. "Ever since I began playing," she amended hastily. "I have it up in my room. I could go get it later." She waited for their replies, and hoped they hadn't noticed her slip up.

[Eowyn Skywalker]

"You play the fiddle too?" asked Willow. "That's great! If we can find some tunes that we both know..."

She looked over at Lily, who had a twisted expression on her face; obviously she had said something that she had intended not to. "I know what you mean," Willow said, "with the fiddle being a most prized possession. It's the only thing I have left of my mother, you know," she added, softly.

Noting the expressions on Daisy and Mira's faces, she quickly changed the subject. "So, what songs do you know, Lily, Daisy, Mira? If we could come up with one we all know..."

She sat down down, to await a response. "So you're from Bree," she said, trying to keep the area from growing to quiet, as the other hobbits thought of any songs they knew. "I recognize the name as one of the Breelands names. Mira, and Daisy, where are you two from?"

Willow tightened up her bowstrings as she sat, waiting for a few answers.

[Mad Baggins]

"Well, I am a Baggins, from Hobbiton," replied Mira. As for the songs you would like us to help you with, I've not a thought in my head." Willow nodded and furrowed her brow, thinking for a song while waiting for a response from Daisy.

They all sat and were thinking. Out of habit, Mira drew her small flute out of her pocket and played a little tune. While she played, she also tried to think of a song.

How ever far the road draws on,
Long and cold, when you are gone.

In darkened forest I shall wait,
For when you pass the secret gate

Our starlit eyes shall meet again

"...and then what?" murmured Mira, stretching her mind for more verses. She sighed, frustrated for the moment, and chewed her upper lip. She leaned back in her seat and listened to the sounds of the party run on as she waited for someone to speak.

[Kitanna]

Deav took in everything Isaac said. He had never heard of someone losing their memory before and from what rumors he had heard they seemed highly unlikely. "Er...I'm very sorry." Deva was at a loss for words. What exactly does one say in such a situation such as this.

The Dwarf lifted his mug to Isaac, "To hoping you find where you are really from." He then took a large gulp from the mug.

[Eowyn Skywalker]

"That's very nice," said Willow. "You play the flute very well."

Willow stood up, and tested the strings on her fiddle. It was still quite in tune since when she had played it earlier, and she dredged her mind for a tune. One came to mind straight away; a slow, sad sounding song; one of the slower Shire songs. Willow thought it might fit, and played the tune to see if the others recognized it.

Home is behind, the world ahead.
And there are many pathes to tread.
Mist and shadow, cloud and shade,
All shall fade, all shadows fade

The song was somewhat known in the Shire, and sounded sad and mournful on a violin. And that was what Willow wanted too, she liked that kind of music, though she knew many faster songs. "Are you familiar with that song?" she asked, tucking her fiddle under her arm. "It is fairly simple."

She sat back down, suddenly realizing that she had played where someone would hear her, and for that reason. What have I just done? she thought. I've never been able to play in front of someone before, and never intentionally. Maybe I am growing more comfortable with playing, more than I thought.

She breathed out sharply. "Are any of you familiar with the song?" she asked, her voice soft, and thoughtful. The song had been a favorite of her mother's... and. Do not bring up painful memories, Willow, she chided herself. You have finally found a place to fit in. You are not going to run off again!

Willow tightened her face, her resolve made. She was going to play her fiddle that day, and there was no memory that could stop that.

[Archsage Isaac]

Isaac nodded and raised his own mug. Soon the waitress brought him his steak and the utensils to eat. After cutting a piece of the meat, he speared it with his fork and put it in his mouth. It tasted great. He continued like this for several minutes until the steak was all ate. He then smiled and took a drink from his mug.

"I thank you for your concern, Deva, but do not worry about me. I may never find it, it's not a loss. How can one lose what one has never had?" Isaac said, taking another drink from his mug. "I also thank you for refrain from conversation while I was eating. I find it vulgar to eat with a mouth full of food." he said, wiping his mouth on an old, but clean, rag that he'd had in his bag. He stowed the rag away again and looked toward the bar where he'd distincly heard a fiddle. Very good... he thought, smiling once again.

[Amanaduial the archer]

Aman was slightly startled by the flirtatious tone and behaviour of the man in front of her, but didn't let it show - it was rather hard to make the unshakeable Innkeeper seem outwardly startled or lose her control completely. Although you came rather close tonight.. she reflected, slipping a glance at Snaveling. The man seemed troubled once more, she noticed, and as she watched her ran a fretful hand through his hair, snagging his fingers on the knots and tats. For a second, the Innkeeper thought to catch his attention, for he had seemed so relaxed and when he was so troubled his resolve might slip...but no, he seemed to make up his mind and stood.

"Aman?"

Aman looked back at the man by the bar and nearly blushed - shame, Aman, to get so distracted when someone is waiting! "Apologies, Bredan, I was a little distracted."

"Hmm, I saw," Bredan seemed thoughtful and sighed as he said this as his eyes followed Snaveling out of the bar. Aman thought it best to change the subject back to business, pulling out the large leather bound ledger from across the bar where another customer had just signed into the Inn.

"Of course you may have a room - although we seem to be getting a little short of late. If you could just put your name here, and sign here with your mark. Thank you.." she smiled at the man and, turning to get it from the wall, she handed him a selected room key. "One with a nice view across the Shire hills there," she added as she gave it to him. His fingers slid across herself and he seemed to blush very slightly.

Aman wasn't sure what the man's intentions were, but he seemed a decent enough fellow - still, it didn't generally pay to get too close to the Inn's denizens. All too soon they all moved on...pictures of several of those she had been good friends with flitted through the Innkeeper's memory, but she moved them to one side, for the time being. But something else troubled the Innkeeper's mind, something she wasn't sure she had seen: just as Snaveling had left the table, he had deposited a gold coin into his pocket, leaving Toby asleep at the table. Of course, it might have been his; but hadn't he said before that he had no money to pay his way? You saw him, Aman - he is a different man from the callous would-be murderer who first set fire to the trees. Toby probably gave it to him - Snaveling would not now stoop to stealing from his friend... Aman couldn't help dwelling on the man: he was fascinating, a melancholy, bitter enigma of a character, under which lay a gentleman, she was sure....

The firelight lit the side of the man's sallow face as he approached the woman, and his voice was oddly soft, not his usual harsh tone as he kissed her hand. "My lady...-"

"You're a fool, Amanaduial - you did well to take your hand from his. You know nothing solid about the man and what sort of gossip would you like to give the people of the Shire?" She shook her head, smiling self-mockingly. Rubbing her eyes, she stifled a yawn: it had been a long day and she was tired.

Moving briskly across to the little group of hobbits who sat chatting amiably further along the bar, Aman grinned at them. "Evening ladies, anyone need a drink?"

[Esgallhugwen]

Aldor looked up at Peony from his empty mug. "Yes I'm fine, thoughtful of you to ask", he stood up taking her hand and gently lifting her from the seat, he could tell she had some memories of her own.

The roar of the Inn seemed to die down as they stepped across the wood floor, their boots making the slightest shuffling noise. A violin chord sang sweetly to them, the sad melody almost making their feet move unconsciously.

"I've heard this song before", Aldor whispered, clasping her hands in his he spun her slowly, while others danced around them.

Yes. Aldor had heard the song before, three years ago, a lone violinist had played it in the Golden Hall of Rohan, except this time it was backed up by a flute and a harp, which made the song even more heart evoking.

Perhaps I am homesick, my emotions are so confusing, never before have I encountered anything like this. Theres no need to rush home, but the song reminds me of better times though it be a sad and somewhat lonely song. No matter nothing wrong with going nothing wrong with staying. This is no time to debate, you know that!

He shook his head trying to get the thoughts out, so he wouldn't disturb this beautiful evening.

[Eowyn Skywalker]

Willow paused from talking to the three other hobbit girls, and looked up at Aman. "Ah, hullo, Aman," she said, recognizing the innkeeper. Willow stood up.

"Evening ladies," said Aman, grinning. "Anyone need a drink?"

Willow still had to look up at the Rohan innkeeper, but standing, she was a bit closer to looking her in the eye. "Water?" she asked, grinning helplessly. Willow shrugged. "I am a bit thirsty, though I do not know what I'd like."

"Ah, of course," said Aman.

Willow bit her lip. "It doesn't matter, truly. Could you just get something for us, Aman?" she asked. "It would be greatly appreciated."

Willow tucked her fiddle closer under her arm, out of habit, she had picked it up. She climbed back up on the stool, and sat back down, setting her fiddle on her knees. "Ahh, but I seem to be forgetting my manners," Willow said. "Aman, this is Daisy"-- here she indicated the shorter hobbit-- "Lily"-- this time she noted the Breelands hobbits-- "And Mira"-- here Willow pointed at the last hobbit. "Daisy, Mira, and Lily, this is Aman, the innkeeper here. She is a fine woman."

Willow smiled weakly, but it was true. She had a fine appreciation of the innkeeper, even if she was one of the big people, and Willow wanted to make that clear: even if she didn't have the nerve to say it straight out.

[Memory of Trees]

Kyria pushed the door open and entered her room. The space was small and plain, but not especially ugly. A bed, an nightstand, a basin and pitcher - it was just as she expected it to be, just as she needed it to be. Perfect.

Strains of of music from the party below floated up through the narrow cracks in the floorboards, and Kyria's feet itched to dance. But no, dancing was out of the question, and she knew this. She should sit still, and wait, wait for Xavier. She must listen, and wait, and not let him down this time, not again. This she knew, and yet still she wanted to dance.

Sinking into a chair, the young elf pressed cold fingers to her aching temples. Be more careful, she chided herself. If you run about crashing into people, it's no more than you deserve. Be more careful next time, watch.

The mellow evening sun made the windowpane glow with soft golden light, shadows from the window dividing the floor into four equal sections of light beneath the window. Kyria rose and went to the window, staring out at the dusty road below. There was no sign of him yet, but soon she would see a cloud of dust rising up the path. She could feel him close.

A pang of hunger made her wince as she caught a delicious whiff of roasting meat coming from downstairs. She was faint with hunger, and it smelled like goot meat, a fine meal. She would eat, but first she must tend to her belonings.

Kyria picked up her sack from where she had dropped it by the door. It was mostly empty, containing only a gown, her maps, and a few other personal items. She plunked it decidedly down on the low bed. There, that was better.

Undoing the drawsting from the sack, Kyria withdrew a pair of long, thick leather gloves. They were black and reached almost to her elbows, and she put them on. She then pulled from the bag a heavy outer robe the sack did not look big enough to contain, and she also put that on. It reached down to the tip of her shoes, and she was entirely covered now except for her head, with the shiny black gloves over her hands. She was ready.

Kyria walked to the door, took a deep breath, and then pushed it open. Down the stairs, through the hall, and then she was there. She entered the crowded room fearlessly.

She was small for an elf. Petite, with small hands and feet, very thin and not very tall. The wine and cream robe completely enveloped her small body, and long, shining golden hair spilled freely down her back. Her nose turned up at the end, and she had small, round, flat black eyes that rolled and turned as she scanned the room.

There was a tall woman standing behind the bar, speaking to a group of hobbit girls. Kyria approached the woman. "Excuse me, m'am," she said softly. "You must be Aman. My name is Kyria of Dell. The meat smells delicious. May I have some?" she asked, placing a coin on the bar with a tiny, black-gloved hand.

[Firefoot]

"Are you familiar with that song? It is fairly simple," said Willow when she had finished playing her song. Lily stirred. It seemed as if she had heard the song, a long while ago, but it was very familiar none the less.

"I've heard it before," she replied. "I think I could play it. Maybe we should play a couple of more lively songs as well. A nice mixture, if you take my meaning. The mood seems celebratory tonight, like people might want to dance. I think I'll go retrieve my fiddle soon."

She heard someone approaching and she looked up and saw a woman coming heading towards them. "Evening ladies, anyone need a drink?" she asked smiling. The Innkeeper, probably, realized Lily. Willow answered. "Water? I am a bit thirsty, though I do not know what I'd like." The woman answered, "Ah, of course."

"It doesn't matter, truly. Could you just get something for us, Aman? It would be greatly appreciated," Willow said. Then she remembered her companions, and introduced them to her. "Aman, this is Daisy, Lily, and Mira," pointing to each of them in turn. "Daisy, Mira, and Lily, this is Aman, the innkeeper here. She is a fine woman."

"Pleased to meet you, Aman. The Green Dragon is a wonderful inn," Lily replied. She meant it too. Aman seemed like a really nice sort of person, and Willow's word that she was a "fine woman" solidified her impression. "And water would be great."

[Kitanna]

"I know this song," Peony smiled as she danced with Aldor. "It is a vague part of my memory, but I know I have heard it." The song was sad, but Peony was happy.

"My father would play it on his fiddle when my siblings and I were young. Brings me back to happier days."

~*~*~

Deva listened to the fiddle music. The song was entirely new to him, but many in the inn seemed to know it. "Nothing like a good song to set the mood to the evening, eh Isaac?" Deva looked down into his mug and much to his dismay it was close to empty. He thought for a moment about getting another ale. He decided not too, at least for now. He finished the last few drops and looked out to the dancing couples.

He saw Peony as she danced with Aldor. He smiled to see his friend so happy. "You dance Isaac?" He finally asked. "Because I don't, but I do enjoy watching the happy couples that do. Makes me so happy to see that evil doesn't touch everyone."

[Archsage Isaac]

"You dance Isaac? Because I don't, but I do enjoy watching the happy couples that do. Makes me so happy to see that evil doesn't touch everyone." Deva said after looking at the couples. He had smiled while looking at one.

Isaac laughed and scratched his cheek sheepishly. "I wouldn't call it dancing, per se..." he said, finishing off his ale as well. "In all actuality, I do not dance. I did a sacred dance in a ceremony once, does that count?" he asked, slightly cocking one eyebrow as he did so.

"So, Deva, who is that?" Isaac asked, nodding at Peony. "You seem to know her pretty well." he added as an elf walked into the room. "Well, don't answer that yet, shall I get some more drinks?" he asked, smiling.

[Kitanna]

"No more ale for me, not now anyways, but you go ahead and get yourself some I will wait here." Isaac stood and went off to get another ale.

After he returned and took a seat Deva began to talk about Peony. "The girl over there, the one with the red hair is my friend Peony. We met many years ago through her father. She was looking for an adventure and I took her under my wing. We have been travelling together for some time now."
"

[Archsage Isaac]

Isaac took a drink, his thoughts once again turning to a happier time. Not wanting to reveal much about his thoughts, he quickly snapped them out of his head and turned his attention back to Deva.

"Well, that sounds nice, that you have a traveling companion I mean. Traveling alone can be boring, and the long, cold nights aren't much fun when you have no one to spend them with..." Isaac said, once again taking a drink of the ale.

[Amanaduial the archer]

Aman smiled warmly at Willow, pleased at the compliment. "Water? Ah, I think we can find something a little more interesting than that - I shan't force anything alcoholic on you, especially if Willow is to play for us later on. Wouldn't do to have the musician fall of the stage," she said, winking at the little hobbit. "So...strawberry fizz? Made from Goody Gamgee's fruit as well..."

As she was turning to fetch a jug of the drink in question, another arrested her attention and she turned to listen to the customer, a surprisingly petite, pretty elf-maid, soft spoken when she opened her mouth.

"Excuse me, ma'am, you must be Aman. My name is Kyria of Dell. The meat smells delicious. May I have some?"

"Your compliment is recieved gratefully, Miss, but your money is unnecessary tonight," Aman replied. "Everything is on the house tonight because of the party, to celebrate the opening of the Inn! But of course, I can get you a meal," she finished, excusing herself into the kitchen to prepare a meal of lamb and venison - Hawthorne may not have been anyone's idea of a cook when she first arrived, but in recent days she had certainly improved: tonight's fine meal was testimony to how much.

[Feared Half-Elf]

Elkamia finished her elf-song and sat on the branch for a while, having watched the Hobbit lass give her horse to a stable-hand and enter the inn. You're just unsociable, thats your problem she chided herself. The sound of a fiddle playing, mingled with the clanking of tankards and the burble of conversation, reached her through an open window. She knew that song! She opened her mouth once more, and sang the words that she knew.

Pippin she muttered under her breath. Pippin, or Peregrin as his proper name was, son of the current Thain of the Shire. It was Pippin who had sung that song, all those years ago in Minas Tirith, in the garden before the Houses of Healing. Ever since then the song was fresh in her memory, by far her favorite Shire song. She smiled, flooded with memories, and sung another elven song. She hoped that the fiddle player would play again soon, they were good.

[Fordim Hedgethistle]

The night air came over Snaveling like a clean blanket, fresh and cool from having just been laid on the bed. The sounds of the party drifted out to him through the open windows, but out here the raucous outcry of joy was much reduced and more manageable. He closed his eyes and took a deep breath, smelling the cleanliness of the yard with its small copses of trees, and the well-tilled earth of the Shire. There was a stiff breeze from the West this night, and for a moment the Man fancied that he could almost smell the Sea, but he knew that was impossible. He had grown up on the shores of the Sea, and his first skills had been learnt on it. But it had been many years since he had seen her shining like gems in the morning light, and burning with her watery lights of infinite colours in the evening.

He opened his eyes and looked up at the stars. The Mariner was almost directly overhead, and so brightly did he shine that even without a moon Snaveling could see his own form lightly shadowed on the neatly trimmed grass of the yard. “Flammifer of Westernesse,” he muttered under his breath, remembering an old tale, long forgotten. “How long has it been, I wonder since I last looked on your cold beauty and did not curse it? So long have I walked in the dark, but now I feel the need for light.” He slid his hand into his pocket and fingered the coin that he had taken from Toby’s pouch. He felt an odd twinge at the back of his mind, but he shook it away. “Besides,” he said aloud, as though speaking with another, “Toby would not mind loaning me the coin!”

A small voice spoke out to him from the shadows, asking “Who’s there?” Snaveling spun about but the voice came from a small hobbit lad whom he’d seen loitering about the yard the past few days.

“It’s nobody,” replied Snaveling. “And who might you be? And what are you doing out here so late at night?”

The hobbit stepped forward into the light of the Star and replied eagerly. “Begging your pardon, sir, but please don’t tell my father on me. Or Miss Aman, either sir, if you please. She’s been told not to let me hang about here in the dark. My name’s Pimpernel Brandybuck, and I’ve just come by to have a look at the party.” He turned back toward one of the windows. “There’s such an awful lot of odd folk in there. From all over Middle-Earth and all! Why, there’s even Elves in there Sir. Elves!”

Snaveling could not prevent a smile. “I know, lad, I know. One of those Elves is even my friend.” The lad’s eyes grew wide and he demanded to know which one. Snaveling carefully pointed out Galadel and Pimpernel let out a low whistle. “Why I’ve seen her. She’s one of those Noble elves, or I’m a dragon.”

“Well, you’re not a dragon, but she’s not a Noble elf, either. She’s of great nobility, but if she’s anything she’s one of the Noldor.”

Pimpernel’s tone when he spoke next was full of admiration. “Why, Sir, you’re a regular Wizard for what you know.”

“Far from it,” Snaveling answered, suddenly bitter. “I know nothing.” His eyes had fallen on Roa once more. With a sudden determination he turned to the lad, holding out the gold coin that he had taken from Toby. “Here lad, take this and do me an errand. There must be a tailor hereabouts?” Pimpernel nodded dumbly as he took the money. “Well, good,” Snaveling continued. “I want you to run and fetch him as quick as you can. I know how late it is, but I daresay he’ll be willing to come out for that kind of money. Tell him that there’s a Man who wants a new set of clothes. They need to be handsome, but not too fine. Have him bring along some samples. When he arrives, tell him to wait for me in the stable and run into the Inn to let me know. Do you understand all that?” The boy nodded. “Good. Then off you go. If this works out, then I might have something for you, too!”

Pimpernel looked at the gold in his hand and just like that, was off running down the lane. Snaveling watched him disappear around the bend in the road before heading back inside to the light and roar of the party. He quickly settled himself down in the chair next to Toby’s and reached for his snifter once more. “Well Toby,” he roared out, loud enough to break through the gentlehobbit’s snores and bring him back to wakefulness. “You’re being a right bore, sleeping the night away. Let us talk about the joys of the simple life: food, smoke and friendship!”

[Beruthiel]

Daisy was rather dazed. Everything had happened so quickly. She'd made friends with three other hobbit lasses; Willow, Mira, and the newest one, Lily. Willow had played a short tune on the fiddle and Daisy tapped her fingers on the table continuing the beat. She knew the song very well, being in a family who all played instruments meant she knew almost every song there was out there to know. Before she could tell the others this however, the innkeeper introduced herself.

Daisy wasn't afraid of the woman or anything...she was just wary. What else is a hobbit supposed to do when they meet a big person for the first time? She nodded and managed to smile at the lady who offered them all a drink. Daisy nodded along with the suggestion of water, knowing very well that it was unlikely she'd get away with asking for anything stronger.

When Aman was called away by another customer, Daisy turned back to the little group of hobbitlasses. "Who hasn't heard that tune?" She said rolling her eyes. It was known as the walking song and she'd heard it thousands of times.

[*Arwen*]

Tiruviel entered the inn with a smile. Wow had it been a long time since she was last here. Must have been nearly a year. She had really missed this inn and the comforting atmosphere that it always brought with it.

Scanning the room for any faces that she knew, her face fell. Oh well she thought - a chance to make new friends.

She wandered over to an empty table and collapsed into ther chair. She had walked a long way and was shattered.

Maybe she would stay here for a while...

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Check your PM's, please.

~*~ Pio, Shire Moderator

[Feared Half-Elf]

Elkamia shivered, the evening air had turned chilly. Her thin dress was no match for the breeze. Back to the party? the air there was warm at least, and she could sit by the fire. Or then again, back to the stables? Her other clothes were there, the warmer layers all in green, brown and grey. The inn seemed a nicer option, though she was quiet and not known to party.

She dropped off the branch, glad that the man and the hobbit lad had gone now, as her skirts billowed out like an umbrella. She giggled when she landed, how long was it since she limbed a tree in a dress? She chided herself for the folly of it. You should know better than to drop from a tree in a dress. Particularly at your age! She giggled at her own thoughts, and then settled her skirts and hair. With strangers she seemed quiet and cold, like a mountain stream in spring. Give her a group of friends, or solely her own company, and she relaxed and smiled a lot more.

Having settled herself and painted the calm facade back on her face, she headed towards the common room. The warmth hit her like a smack in the face, and she was glad for it after the breeze outside. The party was still going strong. Noticing a woman sat at a table alone, she decided to introduce herself. She wasn't usually so bold, but the woman looked like she would appreciate some company.

"My name is Elkamia." She said politely to the woman. "You look like you could do with somebody to talk to, if you'll excuse my frankness." She paused, her elven green-blue eyes intent as she waited for a reply.

[Maeggaladiel]

Torlo Hillburrow shouldered his pack and stood. He had tarried here long enough; Marigold would be expecting him at her party. In higher spirits than he had arrived in, Torlo left the Inn.

He turned around and stifled a yell, finding himself face-to-face with a huge, wolfy-looking dog. The mutt wagged his tail and licked Torlo's face, finding it the same height as his silvery muzzle.

"Arrow," commanded a voice from behind him. "Leave that poor fellow alone!" Arrow, as the dog seemed to be named, whined once but obeyed. The voice had come from a woman seated on a brown horse.

"Sorry about that," she said apologetically. "Arrow can't help himself sometimes." Torlo nodded, too shaken to speak. I'm safer back home! he thought as he walked away.

"Now look what you've done," the woman scolded, brushing a strand of brown hair from her face that had come free of her thick braid. Arrow didn't seem to mind the fact that he had practically shaken the lunch from the unfortunate halfling.

Arrow's ears pricked up, hearing the sound of music. It was coming from an inn, The Green Dragon, it seemed. He looked up at his mistress, pleading with his black eyes to stop for something to eat.

"I just fed you this morning," the woman grumbled, but the smell of roasting meat was making her own stomach rumble. She sighed.

"You're quite spoiled, for a guard dog," she said with a laugh. "But I'll stop for lunch, just this once. Then we're back on the road." The dog let out an excited yelp and bounded to the door in a whir of silvery puppy energy.

Eleniel (for this was the woman's name) led her horse into the stable and removed its heavy pack saddle. Its strange assortment of contents rattled noisily inside.

"Rest a while, friend." she told the horse. The beast sighed as the weighty saddle was removed, glad to comply.

Eleniel entered the inn, taking in the music and merriment. Arrow had already made himself at home, trotting here and their and licking unsuspecting patrons. She snapped her fingers and the dog bounded to her.

"Hello," she said to the inkeeper at the bar. "Fine day, is it not? Allow me to introduce myslef: I am Eleniel Goodchild of Laketown, purveyer of fine merchandise from across Middle Earth. Could I buy something to eat for myself and my canine companion? He eats anything." she said, remembering the leather glove that mysteriously disapeared two nights ago.

[Eowyn Skywalker]

Willow grinned at Daisy. "Yeah, I know nearly everyone knows that song. It's one of our songs, after all. A true song from the Shire. And you would know many songs, if you sing. But not all songs have words."

She scoured her mind, searching for one without words. And one came to mind swiftly, as there was nothing to keep her mind befuddled: she had, after all, only been drinking water. Come to think of it, she thought, I haven't been eating anything, or drank anything really today.

She smiled within. It was ironic: her being a hobbit and all.

A more challenging, and dancible fiddle song came to mind, and she picked her fiddle off her knees, and stood up to play.

And she played. It was a faster song, at least by those she had heard play it, and was challenging as well. It was called Down Yonder. The song sounded as one that needed words, but she did not know of any. All she knew as the tune seemed to fit into the merry airs of the Green Dragon Inn.

And she played.

Willow let herself be conscious of nothing but her fingers playing over the strings, and the pull of the bow's horsehair threads. And there was nothing there but her, and her fiddle in the world that she had for herself, where she could play, and nothing stood between her and the violin.

When the song ended, she was able to slip herself out of her-- almost trance, one might say-- and sat back down.

"And do you know that one?" she asked, her face twisted into a wry smile.

[Kransha]

The gentle roar of Snaveling was more than enough to wake Tobias Hornblower. He was perked up within instants, color returning to his face, his bloodshot eyes widened orbs of light, and his features buzzing with movement. His drunken trance was lifted like a morbid cloud flowing away, leaving only a warmth and sunlight in the gentlehobbit’s visage. He heard the finality of Snaveling’s words and turned, sitting upright in his chair as he regained a finer posture.

“By the Shire, you’re right, Snaveling. I do apologize for being such a dreadfully dreary fellow, but I swear by all the pipe-weed in Longbottom that I’ll make up for it. Tonight is a night for partying, Snaveling, and I intend to show my worth on the subject. You and I are going to have something that, I believe has oft eluded us of late…fun. Yes indeed, my friend, we are going to make the best of this.”

The elder hobbit was about to rise, pushing up on the ample arms of the chair, but sagged back down for a moment and raised a halting finger before Snaveling could ascend. He reached slowly into the crenellated corners of his vest and coat, stabbing about in unseen darkness with his knobby fingers.

“But first, Snaveling, I must compose a brief letter. Just a moment, if you please.”

From his prodigious inner vest, Toby drew out a fine quill and a narrow scrap of parchment, which he lay down ceremoniously on the nearby table. He leaned over, hunching his back, and pulled a protective arm around to shield the letter from view. Even though he knew Snaveling was aware of the purse’s contents, he wanted the letter itself to be unknown. He quickly began slashing away at the parchment with the quill pen, dipping it curtly in an ink pan which he also produced, popping off the lid and setting it beside his newly arranged work desk on the table. He began to write.

Dear Miss Amanduial, most fair innkeeper of the Green Dragon,

As is my knowledge, over the course of the last weeks, you and the valiant denizens of the Green Dragon have gone through many hardships and woes, but have strived enough to get us all where we are this jovial night. Though I am ashamed to admit it, I have not been a great help during these hard times and, in fact, have acted more as a hindrance. I could merely apologize, but that would be no more than a weak gesture on my part. Instead, I have mustered together this, a gift, to be used however you see fit to help the Green Dragon in the future. The purse you hold contains no more and no less than eleven coins, one for each letter in ‘Green Dragon.’ I pray you take this gift and consider my debt at least partially paid. I wish you good fortune for as long as you require it.

Sincerely, Tobias Hornblower the Third

Concluding the note with his signature execution of a intricate flourish, scribbling his name in larger, heavily inked calligraphy and pulling up the quill swiftly. He admired the stylish cursive before rolling the note into a miniscule scroll and sealing it with a slim piece of crimson ribbon that he’d produced from one of his many pockets. After tossing the scroll in his hand momentarily, he took it between his index finger and thumb as he handed it, holding the note like a fine porcelain cup, to Snaveling.

“Now, good Snaveling, do me the great favor of giving both note and purse to Miss Aman, and then return so that we may begin reveling in the merriness and jollity of the surrounding festivities.”

[Firefoot]

Aman walked away shortly afterwards, and the conversation quickly resumed. Daisy directed her comment to Willow's question: "Who hasn't heard that tune?" Willow admitted it was well-known, and then she picked up her fiddle and played a lively tune. It was one of Lily's favorites, though she had never heard it played so well. Lily knew that she certainly couldn't play it so well and with such life. To Lily it seemed that the music came quite easily to Willow; she wished that she could play like that. Lily loved her fiddle more than just about anything, and enjoyed playing, but she had to work hard to get it right. Once she knew the song well it was easier, but she still had to think about it. Presently, the music stopped and Willow sat down.

"And do you know that one?" asked Willow. Lily thought for a moment before she answered. "Yes," she said. "I know the song. But I sure can't play it like that. Sometimes I have trouble with a part towards the end." She let the other three hobbits reply, and then she said, "Now, if you will excuse me for a moment, I'm going to get my fiddle from my room." She got up from her seat and walked across the common room and up the stairs to her room.

"Now where did I put it?" she muttered. She had been in such a hurry to get down to the common room in the first place she had paid much attention to where she had put her things. Probably in a drawer somewhere, she figured. She went through the drawers and finally found it. She looked with pride on the fiddle for a moment. It wasn't the nicest one in the world, but it was it good condition and gleamed softly in the low light. They're probably wondering what's taking me so long, she thought smiling. I was only going to get my fiddle, afterall.

[Eowyn Skywalker]

Willow smiled, taking Lily's comments as a complement. Lily excused herself to go and get her fiddle too, as she didn't have it with her at the moment, seemingly.

And that was true enough. She had only just came in when she had walked over, and introduced her to Mira and Daisy. Willow noted that Daisy had seemed a bit more wary around Aman, seemingly. And she had enough right to be. Wilow remembered the first time she had met with one of the big people...

Being hobbits, and all, it was... well, different than talking to other hobbits, that was for sure.

How ever far the road draws on,
Long and cold, when you are gone.

In darkened forest I shall wait,
For when you pass the secret gate.

Our starlit eyes shall meet again

The words that Mira had whispered quietly before playing her flute came to her mouth unconsciously. But Willow continued the song, with her voice and violin softly singing as one.

...Our starlit eyes shall meet again,
Beyond the mist, and beyond the rain.

The day draws near when as before,
I shall pass through the hidden door.

The road goes on; leads to the seas,
And back again, through the trees.

And by that hidden path, all elves pass,
Down to the fair seas of silver glass.

We shall meet again someday,
And may that day show no delay

The tune that Willow had fit to it was slower; it came to her as her music did: from the heart, from within. None had heard it before, it had came to her mind as the words to the song came also.

She hoped that Mira wouldn't mind, and that her tune was simple enough that Lily, Daisy, and Mira could pick up on as well.

She picked up her violin once more, and played the tune that she had created for the song of Mira's.

[Mad Baggins]

Mirabell sat, chatting with the other hobbits. Aman came and went, and Lily left to go get her fiddle. Mira and Daisy chatted quietly, while Willow readied her fiddle to play it again. When she touched the strings with her bow and began to play, Mira recognized the tune as the one she had sung softly before. She sang it in her head, and when Willow was finished she smiled.

"That was lovely, Willow. I couldn't think of the words to finish it off, but you did a beautiful job," Mira told the hobbit, who blushed at the compliment. Continuing, she said, "And I was thinking; we should let Aman know that we are thinking of playing tonight. But I suppose we should agree on a song first? I agree with Lily; we should play some lively songs. Like that one you played a few moments ago. I enjoyed it. When Lily returns, we all should make a decision and tell Aman. I can't wait to play!"

[Fordim Hedgethistle]

Snaveling accepted the parchment from Toby and, to prove to the elderly hobbit how trustworthy he’d been with the purse, withdrew that from his tunic and hefted it in his hand. “Very well my friend,” he began. “I shall do as you bid. But you are not the only one with a surprise in store this night – perhaps you shall see something surprising yourself before the evening is through.” Toby looked at the Man quizzically through his drink-soaked eyes but Snaveling said no more. He could already see himself resplendent in his new clothes and showing all the world the new man he had become.

He took one more careful sip from his glass before standing, albeit a little unsteadily. His emotional confrontation with the Innkeeper earlier had gone a long way to clearing his head, but the advancing night and the extra snifter (or had it been two?) of brandy had undone some of the good. He moved through the crowd, this time not avoiding the table where Roa and Galadel sat chatting amicably. As he passed them by he nodded courteously to Galadel’s friendly words of hello, and did not feel the sting of Roa’s look too deeply, for she was about to see a Man she’d not before. He just hoped that she would have a good view of what was about to happen with Aman, for he did not want to be forced to tell her of it later – that would seem too much like bragging.

He saw Aman moving about the Inn tending to the requests of a number of vociferous hobbit lasses who were exchanging songs. Their music had a happy feel and it made Snaveling think of home, and drew his mind thence to the golden image of his hunting lodge, so recently returned to him. He allowed himself the luxury of a moment behind his eyelids, wandering the halls of his lodge, wearing the new suit of clothes that he would buy this night.

When Aman next came close to him (this time, without a tray laden with food and drink) he touched her lightly on the shoulder and bowed deeply to her before speaking. “Mistress Aman,” he began, in as courtly a manner as he could, “I have been requested by my good friend, the inestimable hobbit Tobias Hornblower to present you with a small token of his appreciation for what you have done for us all in overseeing the restoration of the Green Dragon Inn!” He raised his voice somewhat at this, catching the attention of many who stood and sat nearby. They could tell that something Official was about to happen, and waited with breathless anticipation to see if it would entail more food and drink. “I would that I could match his gift with one of my own, but – alas! – I am but a poor Man with little but the clothes on his back.” A sudden thrill of panic moved through Snaveling as he said this: how was he going to explain the new suit of clothes? Worry about that later he told himself through the brandy. “Here is a small purse in which, I believe, he has handed over to the Inn a nice little sum. And here” he said, suddenly remembering, “is a letter that he wishes to accompany it!”

He handed both to Aman, who stood there rather overtaken by Snaveling’s manner.

[Firefoot]

Lily was just leaving her room with her fiddle when she heard more music coming up through the floorboards. She smiled, knowing Willow had taken up her fiddle again. She hurried downstairs, and the music ended just as she entered. She walked back across the common room, fiddle in hand, to where the other three were seated.

She took her fiddle and played a few scales, adjusting some of the strings so that it was correctly in tune. She hadn't played it since she left Bree a few days ago, and it felt good to be playing again. To warm up, she played a lively tune, simple and fairly common in Bree. One of my father's favorites, she realized with a start. She had never thought of it before, but she realized it was true. When she had been little, he had played it quite often. She cleared her head, and looked at the other hobbits. Before any of them could say anything, Aman came by with their drinks. They voiced their thanks and Aman went off again.

Mira spoke up. "Willow and I were saying that we should decide what we were going to play and tell Aman."

"Well, it seems as if we have found three songs that we all know. We could play those three, and see where we're at after that," Lily suggested. "The one I just played, do you know that one? It is quite common in Bree, but is it known in the Shire?"

[*Arwen*]

Tiruviel looked at the new comer with interest. Another Elf? very interesting. She indeed was very pretty.

"Thankyou. I was in need of company."

The Elf smiled. Tiruviel suddenly became very interested in her. After all, they were both elves.

"So, where are you from?"

[Amanaduial the archer]

After giving Kyria her meal and leaving her to it, Aman turned to the sound of another shout of "Innkeeper!" and went to see to the imminent request. But as she did so, she felt a light, purposeful touch on her shoulder and turned...to see a rather fine figure in front of her. Snaveling nodded courteously then began, with the all the splendour and drama of a courtier of Elessar.

"Mistress Aman," he began, like a ringleader. "I have been requested by my good friend, the inestimable hobbit Tobias Hornblower to present you with a small token of his appreciation for what you have done for us all in overseeing the restoration of the Green Dragon Inn! I would that I could match his gift with one of my own, but – alas! – I am but a poor Man with little but the clothes on his back. Here is a small purse in which, I believe, he has handed over to the Inn a nice little sum. And here" he added, withdrawing a piece of parchment from a pocket with an extra flourish, "is a letter that he wishes to accompany it!"

Aman took the gifts dumbly and looked over towards Tobias, who was beaming slightly in a sleepy, drunkenly good-humoured sort of way and smiled gratefully at the gentlehobbit. He returned this, then slipped importantly towards Ruby to order another drink. Aman unfolded the letter and scanned it...and despite all her usual capability to hide surprise, her eyebrows did jump a little as she saw the sum, for she had glimpsed the coins in the purse - not eleven silver, but eleven gold coins.

For lack of Tobias himself, Aman looked up at Snaveling. "Well, a fine sum indeed, Snaveling! Eleven gold coins..." Was that a spot of shiftiness she saw on the Man's face? She continued anyway. "A fine gift, and I ask that you thank Mr Hornblower again for me, as he appears to have absented himself," she smiled, scanning the crowd, spotting the hobbit coming towards them. Another entered through the Inn door and Aman looked over to see a hobbit-boy, who immediately started over to Snaveling. Aman raised her eyebrows as she recognised the boy.

"Pimpernel Brandybuck? I trust your father does not know of your being here," she said. The hobbit looked horrified and avoided her eyes, mumbling some excuses.

"Just wanted...not fair that...come on..." he looked up imploringly at the Innkeeper. "Miss Aman, I just wanted to see the party! You know, all the different...people," he finished carefully, catching up with himself just in time. Aman smiled, waving away the excuses.

"Ah, sure it's a party! I can't be expected to see every individual that comes through those doors..." she winked and lowered her voice. "I won't tell him if you don't."

Pimpernel beamed widely, thanking her, then turned to Snaveling. "Mr Snaveling, the tailor is here, in the stables where you asked him to wait."

Here Aman could not help but glance at Snaveling sharply, an almost inperceptible frown appearing on her brow. All you have, hmm? What about not being able to pay earlier... Aman remembered the gold coin she had seen earlier in Snaveling's possession, and wondered once more whether this was a satisfying explanation. Outwardly though, she smiled, if a little enquiringly. Nearby she could see Tobias approaching. "Ah - Tobias was generous to you as well, Snaveling?" she asked.

[Roa_Aoife]

Roa had tried to ignore Snaveling all night, but he kept drawing attention to himself. First with the song, which even Roa had to admit was pleasant to hear, then with the incident in the cellar. Roa had sought out Aman after she had spoken with Snaveling. While she was still angry with Snaveling, he was in her charge, and any punishment visited upon him would have to go to her first. Aman had been surprised with Roa's demand, but Roa was even more surprised when she learned of the arrangment with the innkeeper.

Snaveling had been staring at her for awhile, though she did not acknowledge but once, and that was to glare. But now, with the announcment he made so loudly, she could not help but pay attention. He finished his speech, and Aman had thankfully accepted. Now, Roa noticed the nervousness in his walk, so well hidden to less observant eyes, as he approached the young lad who had just entered. The word tailor reached her ears, and she was forced to squash her curiosity. She turned again to Galadel, who was smiling at the man and the hobbit.

"It would seem that a great change had taken place in those two, much for the better. I sincerly doubt that they are the same people we met on that first morning." The elf woman gave Roa a pointed look, and then sighed. "How long till you forgive the poor man? He has suffered enough with out facing your scorn," she added almost pleadingly.

"I know, Galadel, I know, and I suppose that I shall have to inform him that he is forgiven. But my good graces do not so easily forget. I do not know if I will ever be able to smile at the thought of him again." Galadel nodded sadly, and Roa bowed her head. The elf was right, he had changed a great deal. Perhaps, if he could show her that he valued life more than gold now, she could trust him again. But how could I test that?

[Witch_Queen]

Aduthondiel
"Crystal it isn't right for me to keep you away from Mr. Angry. You two should be togther right now. This is a joyous time. You shouldn't sit here and listen to an elf ramble on and on about what the future has in store for us." Adu knew that she had make Crystal go be with Angry. She wasn't sure if the two of them could continue the conversation. It was better if it ended for the moment.

She got up and fixed her some ale. Adu thought it would be right if she found Aman and talk to her about Crystal's good news. Adu had watched as Aman talked to the other visitors. The inn had became very popular after the fire and everything. Adu only had to wait for Hama to return with the good news. Yet what would she do if he didn't return. Adu knew she should have went with Hama. I shouldn't have let him go all by himself. I don't care how mighty a warrior he is. No one should be made to travel alone. Not even a heartless man like Dorian.

It didn't matter how much Adu wanted to forget Dorian he always managed to get back into her life. He was always going to be there with her no matter what. Adu had to face the fact that his spirit would haunt her life until she made everything right. "Crystal would you like a mug of ale?" Adu had to get her mind on something else. Dorian was dead and he couldn't do anything else to hurt her or Crystal. Life was better for the two of them. Adu was just happy that Crystal had Angry in her life. I have Count and Crystal has Angry. Everything turned out weird for me. I've got my horse at least. Count won't leave me for a long time. That is unless someone finds it in their mind to take Count away from me. Thats when the fight is on.

[Memory of Trees]

Kyria recieved the meal gratefully. "Thank you, Aman," she said, her mouth curving into a pretty smile as she took the plate from the innkeeper. Looking around for a place to sit, Kyria turned to the four hobbit girls next to her. "I heard you singing," she said, addressing the one called Willow. "It was lovely! You have a beautiful voice."

"Why, thank you," the girl responded, smiling.

"You're quite welcome! My name is Kyria." The young elf paused, twisting her black-gloved hands together nervously. "Do you mind if I sit down?" she asked at last.

[*Arwen*]

Tiruviel

Tiruviel excused herself from the table and went to get herself a drink. She had suddenly realised how thirst she was. Three quaters of the way to the bar she stopped suddenly, staring ahead of her at the elf seated there.

She was beautiful - small with long blonde hair (very similar to her own) and a cream and wine coloured robe. Her hands reached out to her drink and Tiruviel noticed that they were neatly fitted with smooth black gloves. Tiruviel looked at herself. Compared to the woman she was nothign at all. She had long blonde hair as well but her robe wasn't nearly as stunning. She was still wearing her travelling clothes - green and brown cloth. She felt a sudden urge of desire to understand this woman and talk to her.

"Excuse me for disturbing you," she said quietly as she sat herself on a neighbouring stool, "But i couldn't help noticing you from my table. Would you like to come and join us? We are all strangers to each other - do not worry."

Kyria smiled and nodded. Leading the way, Tiruviel wound her way through the tables until she got to her own. Then, gesturing to an empty chair, she introduced everybody.

"Elkamia, this is Kyria.
Kyria, this is Elkamia."

[Maeggaladiel]

Arrow wagged his silvery tail as Eleniel tossed him a piece of bread.

"You're getting spoiled, O Great Hunting Dog," she scolded. "Just remember that you're going back to the hunting and gathering life after this." Arrow raised a mithril eyebrow, as though he thought differently.

From behind her, a man had taken a stand and was delivering an official-sounding and somewhat alcohol-laced speech to the patrons of the Inn. The speech was announcing the donation of a sum of money to the Inn by a certain hobbit, who looked rather drunk himself. It seemed as though this Inn had experienced some hard times in the recent past and was now celebrating its recovery.

Eleniel applauded politely as he finished his speech. On the other side of the Inn, a trio of younger hobbits finished a song.

"Bravo!" Eleniel said. "Fine music!" Arrow tilted back his head and howled along with their next song, agreeing with her judgement. Eleniel laughed.

"Apparently you approve of the song!" she said. She approched the hobbits and the elven woman who had joined them.

"Mind if I sit in and listen?" she asked. Arrow tilted his head to the side, casting a pleading glance through black puppy eyes to the hobbits.

[Archsage Isaac]

Isaac had drifted off into his thoughts while listening to the music that had been played. It was great, very beautiful. It comforted him. He snapped out of his thoughts quickly enough though and took a drink from his mug.

To his dismay, there was no ale left. He was slightly saddened, but then came back to reality. He could get more, but thought it rude to drink when Deva drank no more. As he placed his mug on the table before him, he saw an elven girl stop almost to the bar. She just stopped in place, staring at another elf girl seated at the bar. Both wore beautiful robes, and both soon walked back in the direction the first had come.

With a slight smile he turned his attention to Deva. Being the kind of person used to being alone, he never did know how to start a conversation, always feeling as if he'd say the wrong thing. A childish fear, yes, but a fear nonetheless. It was his only fear. Isaac had stared down death and put his life on the line everyday he traveled, but he was afraid of saying the wrong thing to start a conversation. He sat in silence for several moments, before unstrapping the sheathe from his hip and laying it in his lap, looking at the intricate designs that had been placed on it.

[Fordim Hedgethistle]

The transformation of Snaveling was remarkable. Before their eyes his confident, happy façade fell away, and once more he became the shifty-eyed rogue they had known. He licked his lips nervously as he looked from Aman to Toby to Pimpernel. He glanced at the door as though contemplating escape, but Roa had chosen this moment to finally pay him heed, and for the first time today she was looking at him with something less than the bitter disdain that he had come to expect from her, and which he thought would ever mar her expression toward him. He turned back to Aman, and saw that she was becoming increasingly suspicious, and for a moment – just a moment – he thought he saw something else in her eye…something that regarded him in a generous light…something that would be hurt were he to prove himself once more a rogue, and a thief, and a vagabond.

It was a tight spot for Snaveling, the tightest yet, and he was alone in it. Galadel was across the room with Roa, apparently unaware of what was transpiring. Aman was suspicious, but not yet awake to what had happened. Toby, perhaps his dearest friend – for he was the one who, in an odd way, best understood Snaveling – was weaving toward him, smilingly unaware that this time he was the victim of the Man’s vicious nature.

And Roa was watching him, with those maddeningly perceptive green eyes of hers.

It was a tight spot. The happy music of an increasingly boisterous group hung about him like offending flowers, and the general clamour of the partygoers weaved about him. But it did not include him: he was, as always an outsider. But then something occurred to the Man that had never really crossed his mind before. This isolated pain, this solitary void in the middle of such celebration…was his own doing. So palpably did he feel this truth that he took a small step backward. His hand reached up and clutched the amulet about his neck. He had taken Toby’s gold. He had betrayed his friend and put his own head in the noose. He had taken what he had been given from Toby, Aman, Galadel and Roa and carelessly thrown it aside for the sake of a new set of clothes.

He did not feel guilt, not yet. It was a long road that Snaveling was travelling from the Man he had been, and there remained far to go yet. But he did feel shame – shame for his betrayal of Toby, and shame to be so nakedly caught out by Aman, before the very eyes of Roa. He looked back and forth between the two women, then addressed the Innkeeper. “Yes,” he said, “Yes, Toby was generous…or rather,” he turned to the hobbit who was now within earshot. “Hello Toby. I’m sorry but I seem to have interfered with your plans somewhat. I borrowed a coin from the pouch, so now there will only be ten for Aman. You see,” he said hurriedly, “you were asleep and I wanted to make a purchase rather urgently,” he indicated the boy, “so I took the coin without asking. I realise I probably shouldn’t have, but there’s no harm yet. If you wish to have the coin back, I can get it for you from the tailor I’ve asked to meet me here. But if you are willing to loan it me, I will be sure to pay you back as soon as I can.” He paused here and looked at Aman -- he lacked the courage to look at Roa -- to see her reaction. She frowned lightly, and it was enough to prompt Snaveling to speak further to Toby. “I admit, it may be some time before I can afford to pay you back, but I will give you whatever surety you require.”

[Roa_Aoife]

Roa frowned slightly. Something was definitely wrong. She leaned in and concentrated on what was happening. Almost all of Snaveling's confession reached her ears, and Roa was taken aback. That he had taken the gold was no surprise- he seemed to have a habit of doing that- but that he had confessed, and offered recompence, the shock nearly pushed her from her seat. Galadel cuaght her reaction and smiled.

"He has changed, indeed," Roa was able to murmur. Catching the frown on Aman's face, she quickly rose to her feet. As a matter of honor, she would take the punishment before Snaveling. Quickly she strode toward them, though she remained on the other side of Toby when she came into the group.

[Maeggaladiel]

Listening to the music, Eleniel did not notice Arrow's silver ears perk up. The dog turned his head, looking at a man across the room. Wagging his mithril tail, the dog trotted away from his mistress and sat down at the man's feet.

"Woof!" said Arrow in a friendly manner. Eleniel was shaken from her trance by the dog's outburst. She looked down at her feet, but the dog was no longer there. Panicing, she glanced around her. That mutt could get into so much trouble!

She found him at the feet of a man, who appeared to be studying his sword-sheath. She ran over and gripped the dog's collar.

"Sorry about that!" she said sheepishly. "Apparently my dog likes you!" She gave the collar a tug, but the dog flopped stubbornly to the ground. Eleniel sighed.

"My name's Eleniel Goodchild of Laketown. No relation to Cami Goodchild." she told the man with a smile. "It seems my friend Arrow here has found a place to sit." she cast him an angry glance, but the dog ignored it. "Mind if we join you, sir?"

She scratched the dog's ears, waiting for a reply.

[Crystal Heart]

Crystal smiled. "Thank you," she said as she took the ale. She looked around. Angry was no where to be found. She wondered where he could have gotten to.
"I am sorry to be leaving this conversation, but I want to tell Angry what has happened. Please excuse me."

Crystal got down off of the stool and looked around the busy Inn for Angry Brandybuck. She hadn't heard a word from him since Arty's brother Bartholomew had come in to tell her the news of her father's death.

Even though she knew that she should be sorry and sad for her father's death, she just couldn't make herself. She was too over joyed by the chain of events. When she had first arrived to the Shire and had met Angry, she had thought there would never be away to stay in the Shire and live out her life. She thought that she would have to leave her heart and soul here in the Shire as she ran from town to town, looking for a way to live off of other's drunkeness. She continued to smile at the world of luck she had found for herself and continued looking for Angry.

[Kransha]

“I admit, it may be some time before I can afford to pay you back, but I will give you whatever surety you require.” finished Snaveling, half rushing and half rueful as he spoke. His words were directed at Tobias Hornblower, but the elder hobbit could tell that several of the folk around now had fixed their gazes on the man who stood before them. Toby’s mouth opened, but nothing came out. He looked at Snaveling, then to a frowning Aman, then to Roa who was nearby, and considered. He could’ve begun any number of mindless rants, but his logical side warned him against it. Thinking for a long moment as a minor silence gathered around the few people nearby, he began to speak quietly and slowly, contemplating every word.

“Snaveling…I am not entirely sure, for once, what to say…” he was nearly speechless, staring with narrowed eyes at the man. Suddenly, those narrowed eyes and furrowed brow softened as if a great burden had been lifted from them. Though it came through a great supply a stuttering and groping for words, Toby began to speak again. “I…I am astounded that you would say such false things to these people! You know perfectly well that the coin wasn’t stolen. I distinctly remember giving it to you as a gift earlier…In simply must’ve forgotten that one of the eleven coins I had ready was given to you. It is my shortcoming, and I cannot fathom why you would try to take the blame for it. You will all have to forgive me, I have been a bit…shall we say, ‘distracted,’ and I see now why my mind became so diluted by these festivities. The gold coin thought stolen was a gift, and I can probably muster more for the inn if Miss Aman would desire as much.”

Toby’s mind was, almost literally, trying to throttle him. He felt a great lump in his throat, but swallowed it. He had never in his life done anything charitable that he could remember. The eleven gold coins was a great and straining stretch, but this was nearly over the limit. Snaveling had robbed him, no matter how small the sum was, but he suddenly didn’t care. If anything, he had been just as much a fool as Snaveling and the man who’d shown him friendship had surely earned this gift after all the pain he’d endured. For all the hobbit knew, this might be the last as well as first charitable thing he’d done, so he would remove all guilt from himself in one fell swoop. It would be good for him anyway, and his resolution was at last made.

[Archsage Isaac]

"I do not mind at all, please, have a seat." he said, removing his gaze from his sheathe and pushing out a chair for Eleniel. He reached down and stroked Arrow's nose. The dog was wagging his tail happily. His cheery attitued made Isaac smile.

After stroking Arrow's nose he turned his attention from the dog to the people standing in the middle of the inn. He hadn't got all of the conversation, but knew that one of them had stolen some gold that was being donated to the inn. In his destraction, he'd stopped rubbing Arrow's nose, who nudged Isaac's fingers to get him to start again.

[Maeggaladiel]

"Thank you, sir," Eleniel said as she took a seat. "I don't mean to intrude, but Arrow here is hard to move if he takes a liking to someone." She smiled, somewhat apologetically. Arrow cast her a smug look as the gentleman scratched his nose.

"What brings you to the Green Dragon, if I may be so bold as to ask? Business? Pleasure?" she asked him.

The man was momentarily distracted by something behind them. Eleniel followed his gaze to the gentleman who had made the speech earlier. It seemed as though he had stolen a coin from the hobbit's donation. Odd, he seemed a pleasant fellow, not at all the thieving sort. Oh well, Eleniel supposed that alcohol had that effect on people.

Arrow shoved his wet nose into his new friend's palm rather forcefully, annoyed that the man had stopped petting him.

"Arrow," chided Eleniel. "Be nice." The silver dog cast her a forlorn glance before licking the man's fingers in apology.

[Archsage Isaac]

"Ah, it's no problem at all, you may ask all that you wish. But please, please, enough of the 'sir' business. I am called Isaac." he said, finally introducing himself. He hadn't said these words forcefully, he'd said them lightheartedly. "I have never been called 'sir' in my life." he added.

Aarow had been scolded a bit and had begun to lick his fingers in apology. This made Isaac smile, rubbing the dog's nose. It was obvious that Isaac had accepted the apology. "As an answer for your question, I'm a mere adventurer, searching for my lost memories of the greater portion of my life." he said in a more serious tone though still fairly lighthearted. "I arrived at the inn in an attempt to rest my weary body before I set out again. But, I pose the same question to you? What brings you to this fine establishment?" he asked, slightly smiling.

[Beruthiel]

Daisy nodded in agreement with the three other hobbit lasses.
"Yes, those three would do very well indeed. The one with no singing in it though, I wouldn't mind dancing to it... Hopefully others in the inn will join in, there are quite a few hobbits in here. How could any of them resist?" She smiled happily.

This reminded her of new years day. Every year Daisy and her family would have a big get together and they would sing and dance the night away. She hoped at least some of the other patrons in the inn would be willing enough to join in.

Daisy listened to the tune Lily was playing on the fiddle. She could tell Lily enjoyed playing it just as Willow had done. The tune had a lovely, fast paced beat and Daisy tried to tap her feet in time with it. However, her legs weren't quite long enough so she ended up shaking them around under her chair. "The one I just played, do you know that one? It is quite common in Bree, but is it known in the Shire?" Lily asked.

"No I haven't heard it before, but its lovely... Are there any words to it?"

Daisy secretly hoped that there weren't, she enjoyed dancing much more than singing. Either way, she was quite used to performing, though she had never performed in front of an audience full of strangers and with three hobbit lasses she had only just met. It was quite exciting in a way. It wasn't an adventure, but it wasn't something that was completely normal either. Just the right mix of new and old for Daisy.

[Firefoot]

"No I haven't heard it before, but its lovely... Are there any words to it?" Daisy asked her.

"There are," replied Lily. "But I don't know them very well. If you like though, you could dance to it instead. I'm sure with an example to follow the other patrons at the Inn would join in the dancing." To this, Daisy smiled happily, and Lily suspected this response pleased her just as much if not more than if she had said there were words which she knew.

"Well, if that's alright with you two," said Lily turning to Willow and Mira. "I suppose we could go talk to Aman now and let her know what we're doing."

[Eowyn Skywalker]

"Yes, I suppose we should," Willow replied to Lily. "I know well the song you just played... and you play it well. Could you three go and tell Aman the choices... she had spoken with me earlier, and asked me to play, but I don't talk to people very well. Well, besides other hobbits," she added, remembering that she had went over to talk to the other hobbits earlier. "I'm somewhat shy."

Willow became conscious of someone standing behind her. It was an elven maiden who had came in earler, Willow recognized her. "I heard you singing," the elf-woman said. "It was lovely! You have a beautiful voice."

Willow assumed that the elf was adressing her, and replied, "Why, thank you."

"You're quite welcome! My name is Kyria."

The young elf, her name was Kyria, as she had said, paused, and twisted her black-gloved hands together nervously. "Do you mind if I sit down?" she asked after a while, as if nervous about speaking with them.

"No, not at all. This is an Inn, all are welcome," said Willow. "So do sit down, Kyria. You have a lovely name. This is Lily, Mira, and Daisy, and we were just discussing which songs we should do. We had decided, and were about to tell Aman, so that we could do them. But you are welcome to sit and join us. And I thank you for the comment on the song. It is rare that I get comments."

Willow sipped her water, and held her fiddle tighter unconsciously. It was as if a reflex to her now. "You're an elf," she commented. "What brings you here?"

[Amanaduial the archer]

Aman shook her head hastily at Toby, a smile resettling itself on her pretty features. "Mr Hornblower, your generosity is gratifying and ten gold coins...why, you owe the Inn nothing more, in any way. Ten gold coins is quite excellent still. And besides, what is more noble than to give something to a friend in need of a gift?" she added. Her gaze barely flickered towards Snaveling, and no one else in the small group would have noticed, but she knew that the man had seen it.

There was little doubt in Aman's mind as to how the gold coin came into Snaveling's grasp, and yet...and yet the hobbit backed him. A hobbit who has now been rather generous to your establishment. Leave it, Aman...

The Rohirrim woman looked up at Roa, who was standing nearby and smiled lightly at her, not allowing anything to show. She had seen the way Snaveling looked at her, the barely veiled yearning which flashed so uncharacteristically in his eyes when he looked at her. Well, Snaveling had told Aman much of his life - he had laid a sort of trust in her, and she would not betray that by conveying such suspicions as she had felt to the woman. After all, the suspicions may actually be nothing, she reminded herself with a more secret smile. Allowing it to spread over her face, she glanced at the group of hobbit girls at the bar, now also with Kyria, then back at the group.

"Well, it seems our entertainment has decided upon what exactly they will be performing for us. And if there is to be music, as always, there will be more drink needed!" Weaving her trap carefully so that it would not even seem as such, she turned to Snaveling, smiling innocently. "I suspect a new barrel of ale will be needed - Snaveling, would you help me bring one up?"

[*Arwen*]

Tiruviel arrived at the bar and sat down. Turning to the bar she gave a gasp of surprise. "Aman! i haven't seen you for so long! I'm not sure if you would remember me but i definately remember you!" Those had been the days. When she would sit with her friends and eat all the delicious food that they could and then spend the rest of the night dancing to the music. But that was a long time ago now, and things have long changed.

"That meat smells lovely and i'll have a drink as well please. Pretty packed in here tonight, i would guess it was some kind of party? if so, what are you celebrating?" Tiruviel had not been to the region for a long time and so starred at Aman, transfixed, as she listened to the tale of the inn burning down. "Wow. I think i have been away too long now!"

Looking to her right, she saw the group of musicians that she had heard playing earlier, when she had first come in. Later on, i am going to introduce myself. "Oh by the way Aman, i would like to stay for a couple of nights at least, have you got any spare rooms? I don't need anything fancy."

[Galadel Vinorel]

Galadel was only half paying attention to the scene with Snaveling as Roa moved away from their table. Her gaze, rather, was focused upon the five musicians in a corner of the inn who were gathering together to sing and dance. While watching them, the elf ran her fingers slowly over the flute that now lay in her hands. Making her mind up, Galadel quickly finished her ale and stood up. Crossing the room she approached the group. They turned to look at her as she came up to them.

"Pardon me," said the elf of Lothlorien, nodding her head slightely to them, her golden hair falling slightly over her shoulders as she did this, "But I could not help to overhear your conversation. I was wondering if you would mind me playing with you all as well. My fingers have become restless from not playing my flute for a while. Is that allright with all of you?"

Galdel smiled at all of them in turn, watching the changing expressions upon their faces, while one of her right fingers moved unceasingly over the wooden flute that she now held within her smooth left hand. And so she waited until one of them finally answered her.

[Maeggaladiel]

"An adventurer!" said Eleniel, impressed. "Well, I am pleased to meet you, si-- Isaac!" She caught herself mid-"sir."

"As for Arrow and I, we're on business. I'm a merchant from Laketown, and every year I travel the world looking for merchandise to sell." She pointed to the saddle bag at her feet. "Some of my smaller merchandise I carry with me," she said, "And the rest will be delivered to my shop via caravan."

Arrow nudged the bag with his nose, as though showing off his loot to Isaac. He wagged his tail proudly.

"Arrow's my travelling companion-slash-guard dog." said Eleniel with a smile. The way the dog was licking Isaac's fingers made it impossible to consider Arrow as guard dog material.

Eleniel dug through the bag for a moment. She pulled out a blue box made of tin and pried off the lid. For a moment, it looked as though it were filled with diamonds.

"Rock candy," she explained. "Bought it yesterday. Would you like a piece? It's on me." She held the tin out to him, taking one herself and popping it into her mouth. Arrow barked and she tossed him a piece of her bread.

"You're getting quite spoiled, dog," she said, wrinkling up her nose.

[Firefoot]

Lily was feeling quite pleased after Willow had said she played well. She glanced up to find Aman to tell her their choices, but she seemed to have left the room. Lily shrugged. It could wait a couple of minutes.

A petite Elf who introduced herself as Kyria came over to them and asked if she could sit down. Willow welcomed her into the group and Lily smiled at her.

"You're an elf. What brings you here?" Willow asked her. Before Kyria could answer they were joined by yet another Elf. "Pardon me, but I could not help to overhear your conversation. I was wondering if you would mind me playing with you all as well. My fingers have become restless from not playing my flute for a while. Is that all right with all of you?" Lily for one was quite surprised. She hadn't realized how much attention their music was getting. She knew it had been heard by the other people, of course, but she hadn't realized that anyone was really listening. Lily looked the Elf up and down.

"Sure, why not?" said Lily. "We were just getting ready to play. The songs we've been playing; do you know those? Oh, and one more thing, I don't believe I caught your name." Lily hoped she hadn't sounded to flustered - she was rather surprised by how fast everything was happening and overwhelmed all the new people she had met that night. She turned back to Kyria. "Do you play an instrument too? Or would you prefer to dance and sing with Daisy?"

[Archsage Isaac]

"You're getting quite spoiled, dog" Eleniel had said as Isaac took a piece of the candy from her tin using the hand that her dog hadn't been licking. Isaac laughed a bit at her. "Ah, I see. I suppose that he's got another side to him, it's just hidden under alot of layers of nice. Yeah, I believe that..." he muttered, the dog still licking his fingers. Isaac rubbed the dog's head who was still wagging his mithril tail happily.

"So, Eleniel, you're a merchant? That has to be interesting." he said, once again splitting his attention between the conversation in the middle of the inn, the dog that would lick his fingers when he stopped rubbing his head, the group of girls in the corner and Eleniel. "Sorry if I seem kind of distracted, I'm really not used to being around this many people, I am used to being alone in my travels..." he added with a slight smile.

[Fordim Hedgethistle]

Snaveling was caught off guard by Aman’s request for help with the ale, but he recovered quickly enough that he doubted anyone noticed. He could tell that Aman saw much more than she pretended, but he felt confident that she would not interfere with Toby’s fiction – not that it had been all that convincing, really. Snaveling knew the debt of gratitude he owed the hobbit, and had they been alone he would have clasped the little fellow to his bosom. As it was, he had to content himself with a meaningful look. “Yes,” he said to Aman, “I’d be happy to help with the ale.” The sentence, coming from him, sounded odd even to his ears. Together the Man and the Innkeeper moved to the cellar. At first, both Toby and Roa moved to follow, but Snaveling waved them off saying that he was sure he and Aman could handle the barrel themselves. In truth, one look at Toby was all anyone needed to see that in his state, stairs were not a good idea – as for Roa, Snaveling was still not entirely ready to face her yet, so soon after his shaming before Toby. As an after-thought, Snaveling turned to Pimpernel and asked him to go out to the tailor and bid him wait until Snaveling were done here. The hobbit lad nodded once and ran out the door.

For the third time since Snaveling had been at the Inn, and for the second time that night, he descended the steep stairs into the cellar. He was relieved, when he got to the bottom, to see that the wreckage he had wrought the last time he was here had been cleared away, although there remained a faint stain of wine on the floor. Aman led the way toward the barrels, but when they neared them she stopped and turned to face him. For a moment she regarded him in the dim light cast by the solitary lantern. Before she could speak, Snaveling said, “You did not bring me here simply to help with the ale, did you my Lady.” It was not a question. Aman remained silent, but Snaveling could tell that he was right. The noise of the merry makers came through the thick floorboards above their heads and settled to the floor like the dust from the shuddering beams.

[Beruthiel]

Daisy flicked back her curly brown hair back behind her shoulders and, while she adjusted one of the pins holding the curls up, she scanned the room for the innkeeper. She was standing behind the bar and seemed to know that the hobbits were ready to perform. She was preparing for the the entertainment by getting out some more ale. Always a good way to prepare for anything in the Shire. The group of musicians had been joined by two elves, one of which was a flute player. This band was getting larger by the minute. Daisy was quite shocked by the two elves, mainly because she had no idea what to expect. She'd heard of elves being tall and beautiful but she'd majorly underestimated their beauty.

Both of the newcomers had commented on the hobbit lasses music and Daisy hadn't realised that people had been listening to them. The look in Lily's eyes suggested she felt the same way. She was quite please with herself and the group with the compliments but then a thought entered her mind.

"But wait, you haven't actually done anything yet have you?"

Daisy sighed to herself. It was the same sort of feeling she'd had just before she'd entered the inn earlier that night. Just when she thought she was getting people's attention, she realised it was only because of the talents of Willow and Lily that she'd been noticed at all. The little hobbit lass took a sip of her drink and swung her especially short legs under her chair.

She sat silently for a moment before realising how pathetic she looked, wallowing in self pity. Everything was happening so quickly she hadn't realised that she was getting quite tired. She managed a small smile at the elf sitting next to Lily with the flute and said a quiet 'Hello' to her.

"Dont worry Daisy," She thought, "Just wait till they see you dance..."

She hoped that she wouldn't regret wearing her sister's dress later, the one which was far too big for Daisy...

[Amanaduial the archer]

Aman regarded the man in the dimlight, her eyes bright even in the darkness of the cellar, trying to formulate the words for the thoughts she needed to express.

"You did not bring me here simply to help with the ale, did you my Lady." Snaveling spoke before Aman could. The Innkeeper remained silent for a moment more, then smiled thinly.

"You see more than you let on, Master Snaveling," she replied quietly.

"The same could be said for you, my Lady," came the quick reply. The Innkeeper gave a small, silent snort of laughter, looking away for a moment as she leant on her hands on the bannister, one side of her face illuminated by the light. When she looked back up at the Man, her gaze was very clear and direct, twin emeralds boring into Snaveling.

"Snaveling...I would like to think that all who pass through the Green Dragon are as honest as my day is long - and that's bloody honest," she added. "But...well, wouldn't that be a little naive. Like yourself I am of the race of men, although of a line less ancient than you, if what I have heard Roa say is correct." She was referring to the rumour that Snaveling was a Dark Numenorian, a rumour that she well knew that he himself had started. The Innkeeper allowed this a moment to settle in, then stood and continued. "And because of this, because of the things I have seen people do...I am not beyond believing, or hoping, that everyone can change. I wonder will my hope be rewarded?"

She let the sentence hang in the air, an abstract notion with a very direct point. Snaveling didn't reply, although he looked like he wanted to, but the fact that he held her gaze told the Innkeeper enough. Aman smiled and gave a small nod. He understood that she knew, and for the second time in one night she had chosen to ignore it in favour of the good side she believed in. Why, Aman couldn't have said, but nonetheless there it was. Standing again, the Innkeeper took the lantern from Snaveling and, standing up on her tiptoes slightly, she hung it on an ornate metal bracket about a foot above her head. Turning back, she motioned to the sturdy oak barrel Snaveling stood by.

"Come along then, there will be parched throats when the music begins," she said, briskly, rolling up her long sleeves.

[Roa_Aoife]

Roa stared after the retreating backs of Aman and Snaveling. Why do I feel as though I've just been snubbed? It was rediculous of course, and she turned a questioning look on Toby. The hobbit squirmed and then, "Why, Roa, I have a great thrist. Would you care for a drink with me?" The Ranger sighed. It was clear that Toby would not reveal anything. The lie was obvious to Roa, and, she suspected, Aman.

"I believe you have had enough, Toby, but would you care to sit with Galadel and myself?" she asked with a smile. The hobbit considered this for a moment, and then agreed rather enthusiastically. Returning to the table, Roa noticed that Galadel had left. Toby seemed confused as well, but they soon head flute music and saw the their friend was thoroughly enjoying herself with music. Nodding to each other, Roa and Toby took their seats.

[Witch_Queen]

Aduthondiel
She sat back in the chair with her arms crossing each other. Crystal had left to find Angry and Adu wasn't sure what to do now. The party was marvelous and all she could do was sit there and drink ale every chance she got. She looked around and noticed that Aman had disapeared. Adu was bored so she stood up and decided to see what she could do.

She discovered that Aman and the man called Snaveling was getting ready to serve drinks. "Miss Aman, would you like some help?" Adu knew that she was being straight forward but that was the way she was. She didn't want to set around and watch everyone else have fun. Adu wasn't use to celebrations. Usually if some thing good happened back under Dorian's command they would all be dismissed for the day. But that was long ago. She wondered how Hama was doing on his journey. It was lonely without him.

[Fordim Hedgethistle]

Snaveling hurried through the yard of the Green Dragon to the stables. He felt as a child did before a celebration, so excited was he by the thought of the new clothes that he would be purchasing. His brief conversation with Aman remained clear in his mind, but it was quickly moving into the background as he thought ahead to what was to come. He had been too terrified to speak with Roa after carrying up the barrel, even after her manner had made it clear that she was ready to accept him into her company again, if not to forgive him entirely. He wondered if Aman had chosen a barrel of ale consciously, to remind him that his crimes were not forgotten. The weight of the barrel lingered in his lean arms, but he shook them lightly to drive away the strain.

He paused before the door of the stable and took a deep breath of the night air to clear the last of the cobwebs from his mind. He was still light-headed from the drink, but so much had happened this night that the fog which had enveloped him earlier was all but gone.

Inside, Pimpernel was waiting for him with an extremely fat hobbit whom he introduced as Otho Bracegirdle. The tailor bowed to Snaveling deeply and immediately began pulling his wares from a small valise that he had brought. “I don’t often get requests for clothing from the Big Folk, but I do have some that might suit you nicely. Yes,” he said, evaluating, as he held up a bright tunic of red velvet, “this might be what you need.” Snaveling shook his head and glared at the hobbit darkly. Immediately, another tunic, this one a rich blue appeared, but Snaveling did not like the look of the tassels that adorned the shoulders so it too was soon replaced.

It took a while, for the valise at the hobbit’s side was remarkably full, but eventually Snaveling was satisfied with his new clothing. He quickly removed his rags and placed them gently on the straw of his stall – he was tempted, as a gesture, to throw them away, but he knew that the fortunes of those who dwelt in Middle-Earth were never so certain that one could toss away their old cloaks heedlessly. Mr. Bracegirdle helped him get dressed and spent a few minutes adjusting the cloth. It was a surprisingly good fit, requiring only a few stitches under the arms to tighten it up. As the fat tailor worked on his suit, Snaveling put Pimpernel to work coming out his long black hair with an iron comb that the Man borrowed from a nearby saddlebag. When they were finished Snaveling stood and looked at himself in the small mirror that the tailor had brought. It had been so long since he had seen himself in a mirror, or – for that matter – anyone in fine clothing that he hardly knew what to make of himself.

“Thank you Mr Bracegirle,” he said. “These clothes will do nicely. Now, I have no idea what this might cost so I will ask you to take what you require from the coin Pimpernel brought you, and to return the change to Mr Tobias Hornblower. Oh! Make sure that Pimpernel here gets one or two silver pennies as well.” Both hobbits, the young and the fat, bowed to him deeply and started into their extended hobbit thank you’s, but Snaveling was already out the door and heading to the Inn.

The moment he stepped into the light he knew that the transformation was as profound as any he could have hoped for. Those who knew him stared with open surprise, while those who did not assumed that there was a new arrival at the Inn. Several weeks at the Inn, and the company he had formed and kept there, had done much to improve his manner and bearing. Where before there had been a cringing sallow fellow, there now stood straight and tall a Man of the South; his face, previously bearded and cragged, was clean shaven and the lines of his face were no longer vicious but patrician and severe. He was much taller than any there remembered, but in truth, he had merely found the strength to stand upright. His dark eyes flashed with glee, but there remained in their depths a hardness unassailable and inviolate. He was a dangerous Man still, but no longer in a petty and mean way. His new clothes were of dark material, richly woven. They were simply cut and made, as were all the clothes of the Shire, but they were worthy of a powerful lord, and indeed he did not seem out of place in them. On his chest, glittering in the light of the party and bright against the black of his tunic, was his amulet, freshly polished.

Snaveling recoiled somewhat from the stares of those who turned to look at him, but his eyes sought out the table where Toby and Roa sat. Both of them were looking at him in amazement. As he strode toward them he caught Aman’s eye from across the room and saw something in her expression that was at once unreadable and thrilling. He could hear Galadel’s golden voice somewhere in the Inn. He stepped up to where Roa and Toby sat and looked down at them. “Tobias, Roa – might I join you?”

[*Arwen*]

Tiruviel

After polishing off her food and gratefully accepting another ale, Tiruviel decided to go and introduce herself to a couple of people. She glanced aroung the room, soaking up all the different conversations and her eyes rested on a girl sitting on her own.

She wound her way through the crowd and ended up next to the girl. "Hello," smiled Tiruviel, "is this seat taken?" The girl looked up, "No." Tiruviel sat herself down and smiled. "My name is Tiruviel, I have journied from Lothlorien." The girl looked up again and smiled. Tiruviel noted how friendly her smile was. "Mine is Adu," she said.

"I didn't mean to intrude," Tiruviel apologised, "It's just that you looked so bored and I am quite lonely myself." She smiled again. Hopefully this will be a nicer evening than i thought

[Maeggaladiel]

"Sorry if I seem kind of distracted, I'm really not used to being around this many people, I am used to being alone in my travels..." he added with a slight smile.

"That's quite all right," said Eleniel. "I feel quite overwhelmed myself." There was so much going on here, it was almost dizzying. "But I like it. It's better than tending a shop all day." Arrow gave a snort in agreement.

"Actually, this trip is one of the highlights of my year," Eleniel continued. "It's my chance to get out and see the world and everything in it. The rest of the time I spend selling what I collect on this trip." She nodded towards her bag.

Arrow yawned, growing bored. He whined once to Eleniel, casting longing glances to the door. Eleniel sighed.

"I told you to do that before you came in, dog." she said. Arrow gave her the infamous "Sad Puppy Look." Eleniel sighed. She was a sucker for the Sad Puppy Look.

"All right, go ahead. Just don't get into trouble." she said. Arrow wagged his tail and licked both Isaac and Eleniel before trotting to the door and pushing it open with his nose. Before he left, he cast a glance over his shoulder. The look seemed to say, "I'll be back. Your hand had better be ready to pet me when I return!"

The dog almost ran into a finely-dressed man. It took Eleniel a moment to recognise him as Snaveling, the man who had stolen the hobbit's coin. Apparently the coin had gone to good use.

"He looks different!" Eleniel murmured. Turning back to Isaac, she smiled. "You said something about searching for lost memories. What did you mean? I don't mean to pry," she added quickly, red showing on the apples of her cheeks.
***
Arrow sniffed the air, happy to be outside. The delicious smell of cooking food mixed with the interesting scents of livestock and evening. A bee flew around his head and a cricket hopped to and fro at his feet. This was the life.

He momentarily considered eating the cricket, just to see what it tasted like, but the notion was forgotten as something rustled a bush across the coblestone street.

A natural hunter, Arrow was instantly intrigued. His trusty nose told him that the creature in the bush was a rabbit. Rabbits were yummy, and much more fun to catch than a cricket was.

Bounding across the street and squishing the cricket in the process, Arrow was completely happy.

[Feared Half-Elf]

"Well met." she nodded to the elf named Kyria, and marvelled at how she was everything that herself was not. She was the classic 'perfect' elf, with blonde hair and classic eyes. Elkamia had brown hair, and silvery grey eyes. She'd never really cared, until she saw Kyria. "What am I thinking?" she chided herself, as the elf Tinuviel, who she had approached, wandered away and began talking ta a lone girl sat by herself. "You've always concentrated on what's going on around you, not what you look like." She shook the thoughts from her head and concentrated on the elf before her. "Where do you come from?"

She did think, however, that the wine coloured robe was a little too flamboyant for her tastes. But then, she hated dresses generally. She would have preferred to come to this party in her normal clothes, but oh well. A party met a dress, as she had thought to herself many times during the evening.

[Archsage Isaac]

Isaac produced a gently used rag from his pocket and wiped his hand. Not that he didn't like the dog, he hated feeling damp. He put the rag back in his pocket and leaned back in his chair. Eleniel had murmered something before turning back to Isaac and asking what he had meant by his lost memories. "Yes, my lost memories. I have no memories from before a few years ago. It's as if they've been erased by something. I just woke up one day with a sword in my hand and started my journey..." he said. His voice kind of trailed off the last few words.

He saw the man who'd just walked back into the inn. He looked vaguely familiar. It was Snaveling, the man who'd taken the hobbit's coin. Isaac turned back to Eleniel. "It's a hard story to believe, I know, but it's the total truth. I travel these lands in hope of remembering my past." he added with a slightly saddened tone to his voice.

[Eowyn Skywalker]

Willow smiled wryly at Daisy. "Our group just keeps getting bigger and bigger, doesn't it? We started with just us few hobbits, and now..." She gestured to the two elves. "Well, I guess we're not that unnoticable now."

She set her fiddle aside, setting it on the table, as they were not going to play yet. The cherry color of her fiddle contrasted greatly with the oaken wood of the counter. There was a cheery appearance in the oak-wood of the counter-- it fit in with the cheerful airs of the Green Dragon Inn. Willow wondered if it was always that cheery.

After a while of silence-- at least in Willow's head, for there was confersations going on all around them-- she spoke again. "When I first came in here, I never thought that I'd be noticed. Do you know what I mean, Daisy?"

The smaller hobbit's face indicated that she did; with her smaller size, and the slightly too large dress, she seemed to blend right into the wall. Is that intentional? Willow wondered in her mind.

She stroked her violin. "And then someone notices you," she said softly. "And you don't know how to react." She spoke soft, as to herself, but yet not. "And now, I'm here, with three other hobbit's, and two elves, planning to go and play in front of all the Green Dragon. And I don't know how I feel: excited, scared, I just don't know. Do you know what I mean?" she asked, looking beyond Daisy, at all those in the Green Dragon. "Do you know what I mean? And how do you feel here, at the outset of this. I've never played where one could hear me before." And she commented softly, almost to soft for anyone to make out: "I've never been allowed to. I've not been too afraid of people, just of the consequences,"

And her eyes reflected what she said.

[piosenniel]

GREEN DRAGON INN FACTS:

It is the 4th Age, year 12. By the Shire Calendar it is year 1433 S.R. (Shire Reckoning).

King Elessar is on the throne of the Reunited Kingdom of Arnor and Gondor.

Mirkwood has been reclaimed by the Elves and is now called Eryn Lasgalen.

Paladdin Took, Pippin’s father, is Thain of the Shire. (Thain is an honorary title for the military leader of the Shire. The title has been held in the Took Family since the position was first established in 3rd Age 1979 with Bucca of the Marish as First Thain.) Paladdin Took dies in year 13, and will be succeeded by his son, Peregrin, ‘Pippin’, Took.

Samwise Gamgee is Mayor of the Shire, having succeeded Will Whitfoot in 1427 S.R.

The Innkeeper, in the Green Dragon Inn of this forum, is:
Aman – a young woman from Rohan.

Before her, the Innkeeper was Piosenniel, and before her it was Dwarin, the Dwarf.

*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+

Other ongoing characters in the Inn:

Ruby Brown, Hobbit – not married – server and maid

Buttercup Brownlock, Hobbit – not married – kitchen assistant and maid

*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+

Ongoing characters from outside the Inn:

Halfred Whitfoot – local Shiriff from Bywater and Postmaster for this area of the Shire; his pony’s name is Dumpling.

Fredgar Hornblower – local Shiriff from Hobbiton – played by Fool of a Took
_____________________________________________

Please Note:

No 'SAVES' are allowed in the Inn.

With the exception of the Innkeeper and the Moderators, no OOC (Out Of Character) comments are allowed in the Inn.

Only the Innkeeper, Amanaduial, or the Moderators move the timeline for the Inn forward.

Visitors to the Inn will need to read the posts that come before theirs to get an idea of what time it is in the Shire, what the weather is like, and what is happening.

Please be familiar with the rules for the Inn and Games in The Red Book of Westmarch, the first topic in the Shire.
__________________________________


IT IS NOW LATE EVENING. THE WEATHER IS PLEASANT.

THE PARTY CELEBRATING THE REBUILDING OF THE INN IS IN FULL SWING - PLENTY OF FOOD, DRINK, MUSIC, DANCING!

[Amanaduial the archer]

Aman couldn't help raising an eyebrow very slightly as she saw Snaveling enter - the change could only be described as profound. As the man looked across at her she nodded with a very small smile, catching his eye, then looked away. Partying there may be, but business too for the Innkeeper.

She wove through the partygoers to the small group of hobbit-lasses: her musicians. Smiling expectantly she looked around at their nervous faces. "Ready to get this party into full swing?" she inquired with a grin.

[Firefoot]

Lily fairly froze when she saw Aman coming towards them. This is it, she thought.

"Ready to get this party into full swing?" Aman asked. For a moment none of them said anything. Lily imagined they were all just about as nervous as she was, now that the time had come. To think, Lily thought, I'm about to be playing my fiddle in front of complete strangers, with three hobbits and an Elf I only met a little while ago, and in the Shire to top it off. Who woulda thought? Suddenly Lily laughed, breaking the tension. "As ready as ever we'll be, I suppose," she said. "Where should we play?"

[Amanaduial the archer]

Aman beamed broadly at Lily as she replied. "Excellent! When you're all ready, if you could play..." she paused, suddenly realising a flaw in her orginal plan of having the group play at floor level: being hobbits in an Inn of at least half and half hobbits and big folk, no one would be able to see them.

She glanced at each of them and noted the nervousness in their expressions. This may not go down all too well... "As many of the customers are big folk, would you be able to play...on one of the trestle tables?" she asked hopefully.

[Memory of Trees]

Kyria sat down next to the four hobbit girls, and began to eat. They were very pleasant, but all at the table seemed to be good friends, and Kyria understood next to nothing of their conversation. She felt almost as if she were sitting in a corner all alone, even for all the people around her.

Sighing, she set her fork down on her plate. She suddenly didn't feel very hungry anymore. It'll be all right soon, she thought. Soon he will be here. She smiled to herself and took a deep breath. Everything would be fine.

Kyria looked up as a young woman sat down on the stool next to her's. She wasn't especially pretty, and her clothes were rough and travel-worn, but the light in her eyes and the laughter in her voice as she spoke made her seem to Kyria more beautiful than a thousand noble ladies in their fine robes. "Excuse me for disturbing you," the woman said quietly. "But I couldn't help noticing you from my table. Would you like to come and join us? We are all strangers to each other - do not worry."

There was nothing to explain why Kyria's heart leaped as it did, or why she felt an overwhelming urge to go with this woman, but she did all the same. She grinned and nodded, feeling like a little girl who has just recieved a birthday present she has desperately been wanting.

The woman's name was Tiruviel. She led Kyria back to her table, gestured to an empty chair. She took it, and Tiruviel introduced her to her elven friend. "Elkamia, this is Kyria," she said, pointing. "And Kyria, this is Elkamia."

Kyria rose and nodded prettily to the brown-haired elf sitting across from her. Elkamia laughed. "Well met," she said dipping her head in response. There were a few minutes of uncomfortable silence, and then Elkamia said, "So, Kyria, where do you come from?"

Kyria took a sip of wine before answering. "Larnas Eare," she said. "It's a small village a very long way from here, on the border Minhiriath, west of Dunland and the Gwathlo. That is where I was born. For several years now, I've been traveling through Rohan and parts of Gondor, and finally my journeys led me here." She smiled and took a small bite of potato. "And what of you, ladies?" she asked, smiling.

[Roa_Aoife]

The intial shack of Snaveling's appearancce had worn off, and now was replaced by confusion. Why, in Arda, did he make such a fuss over clothes? Completely baffled, she stiffened as he sat across from her at Toby's consent. In the back of her mind she made a note to see the tailor herself at some point. Her traveler's fare would do no good if she was to stay for a while. And it appeared that she was. Of course such things could wait another day.

Snaveling was smiling and looking rather expectant, while Toby went on about the remarkable change in appearance. When he stopped she realized that she was expected to remark as well.

"Well, sir, the new clothing certainly looks smart. A very fine choice. I give my comliments to the tailor, who did an excellent job." Roa was suddenly very curious, and so did not pause when asking, "But why did you see to it tonight? And why all the fuss? It's only cloth. It's not exactly a thing of great importance..."

[Beruthiel]

Willow had voiced Daisy's feelings almost to pefection. Fear, nervousness and excitement all rolled into one. Then Aman came over to the hobbitlasses and asked whether they were ready. Daisy had lost her voice completely and couldn't reply. Even though she performed with her family quite a bit, there were big folk here. Strangers from other lands. A totally different scenario to what she was used to.

Already the group of hobbit lasses had come across a problem. Where would they perform? Aman suggested that the hobbits play on one of the trestle tables. Daisy didn't know what to do. It would be alright for the others, they only had to play the instruments and wouldn't take up too much space. Daisy, however, needed space to dance. She would have to hop to another table to do her dancing, then hop back to the other table to sing. She had a feeling she would be quite worn out by the end of this night. The butterflies in her stomach were not helping much either.

Daisy looked around at the other hobbit lasses, who were obviously just as nervous as she was, possibly more so since most of them had never performed before. Maybe Daisy had the upper hand in all of this, being relatively used to performing. She whispered to the group, "Don't worry, everything will be alright. You all are talented musicians. Everyone will love our music!" She tried to say all this with conviction, but faltered slightly when she said the last sentance.

She turned back to Aman and replied, "Yes, but I will need another table. I intend on dancing as well as singing for the performance and need more space."
Daisy had spoken quite formally, not knowing how else to speak to this woman.

[Amanaduial the archer]

"Yes, but I will need another table. I intend on dancing as well as singing for the performance and need more space."

Aman nodded. "Of course. I will put a few together to make a sort of makeshift stage - why not?" She grinned, looking around at them. "And Daisy is right: everyone will love you."

With that, she left the little group of hobbits and went towards the end trestle table, moving the food and drink from it to slot snugly in between the assorted dishes of delicacies on the other tables. When it was clear, she would move it alongside another two tables nearby to form a sort of stage for some 'traditional' performing - dancing, flying tankards and all, she mused with a grin. Still, the table was hardly a little light thing: things in the 'Dragon were built to last generations of rowdy hobbits. It would take a while to move on her own...

[Mad Baggins]

Butterflies fluttered about excitedly in Mira's stomach. She drew the flute out of her pocket and held it tightly as if she were afraid that it would fly away. It was actually going to happen! They were going to perform! Much as she loved to play, she had rarely played in front of crowds. It was usually for her family and friends that she played.

Aman had gone off to re-arrange the tables so that they could play their instruments upon one and Daisy could dance and sing upon another. The hobbits crowded together, each feeling excited. Mira gulped nervously, which Lily noticed. The other hobbit smiled and patted Mira's shoulder, saying, "Don't worry, we'll be great!"

Mira took a deep breath and smiled at Lily. Taking her flute to her lips, she played a little warm-up tune to ready herself for the performance. Oh, waiting is so hard! she thought. When will Aman have the tables ready?

[Eowyn Skywalker]

Willow placed her hand on Mira's shoulder. "Nervous?" she asked. "I know how you feel. I've never played where anyone can hear me before."

She stood up, and began to retune her fiddle.

She stroked the bow across the strings, and brought it to exact tuning easily-- it was sometihng that she did so often. The tune of the violin hummed through her, bringing a smile to her face.

Playing earlier wasn't that bad, there were fewer people listening. And now, she had to play for everyone, and all would be listening. It was up to them to entertain. But will they like our music? she thought. What if they don't? What if they hate our music?

Willow stuck her head, bouncing her hair behind her head. She breathed out sharply, trying to settle the butterflies in her stomach. Never before had anyone heard her play, even though the few who had that day had said she sounded fine.

But there was such a thing as nervousness. And there was nothing she could do now but play. It was their job to now. And the others, by their faces were as nervous as she herself was.

"This should go well," she said. "This should go well."

[Firefoot]

When Aman suggested that they play on the trestle tables, Lily's eyes sparkled. It was half what she had expected, and in some strange way what she had been hoping for. Secretly, she had always wanted to stand on one of those tables and play her fiddle, but she had always been too nervous to suggest it. Now that she had the opportunity, she certainly wasn't going to pass it up. Aman walked over to push a couple of tables together so that Daisy could dance on them.

Lily noticed that Mira was looking nervous. "Don't worry, we'll be great!" said Lily. Mira smiled and lifted her flute to her lips, playing a little melody for warm-up. Lily was getting impatient. Now that all was almost ready, she was eager to get going. She heard Willow say "This should go well." Lily heartily agreed.

"Why don't we all go help Aman push the table over? Those are pretty big tables, and Aman looks like she could use some help," Lily said to the group. She started towards Aman, hoping the others would follow.

[Fordim Hedgethistle]

Snaveling suddenly felt a bit foolish in his clothes, for it was clear that Roa did not find them as impressive as he had hoped. At first, he looked about the room, as though for an answer, but when he turned his eyes back to the Woman he saw that while she was unimpressed with the clothes, she had noted the change in him. That made him proud, in an odd way, and the feeling showed on his face. “You are right, Roa – it is foolish of me to take such pride in finery like this. But is has been so long since I had new clothes upon me…I had almost forgotten the feel of it. And new clothes do help a Man feel like a new person. Have you never felt a change of heart with a change of clothes?” He looked at her dress. Privately, he noted how well it brought out the colour of her eyes…

Roa flushed and looked down at her dress, as though seeing it for the first time. “This?” she said, then she laughed with that infectious mirth and Snaveling smiled in return. It was a healthy smile and a sincere one. Toby chortled deep in his throat and listed a bit to one side, Snaveling had to catch him lightly and right him. Roa held out the edge of her cloak and looked back at Snaveling. “I borrowed this for the party. It would not do for me to have come in my travelling garb. Do you like it?”

Something caught in Snaveling’s throat. “Yes,” he muttered past the thickness, “I do.” He cleared his throat and then said, a bit teasingly, “So you too felt the need to appear in better cloth for this party? And you question me wanting new clothes? You saw the rags I arrived in. Were they worthy of this?” and he swept his hand about, indicating the room. Roa laughed once more and agreed that they were not. She looked back at the Man and examined his clothes again, but something caught her eye: the amulet that he wore about his neck. She had seen it before, but always it had been sullied and half hidden by the ragged ends of his tunic and cloak. Now that it was polished and lay open in the centre of his chest, backed only by the rich black of his clothes, she could see it clearly. Roa leaned in a bit closer to see it, and Snaveling recoiled, clasping it in his hand. Roa looked up at him, and Snaveling could not understand why he had reacted as he did. He felt a dread of her looking at the amulet, and he did not know why.

Roa held out her hand, her eyes moving ever so slowly from curiosity to command. “May I see that, Snaveling. Please?” For a moment Snaveling considered refusing, but he remembered that he was still bound to her for justice, and as he looked at her eyes he realised that he could refuse nothing she commanded. He lifted the amulet from about his neck and handed it to her. It felt as heavy as lead.

Roa took it in her hands and turned it over in the light. It was ancient and made of an odd metal that shone like silver… Roa gasped. “Mithril!” she said. “Why this amulet is made of pure mithril! Where did you get it?”

Snaveling paused before answering, the unexplainable dread growing in his mind like panic. “It has always been mine. I did not steal it, if that is what you mean!” He could have bitten his tongue out for such an answer, and to make amends he answered more civilly. “It is an heirloom. My uncle gave it to me before I left home. It’s supposed to be from the First Days – when our people first returned to Middle-Earth from across the Sea.”

“You say ‘returned’” Roa replied slowly, her eyes growing hard. “You said once before that your people were related to the Black Numenoreans. Is it of them that you speak?” Snaveling shrugged. In truth, he knew little about his heritage, for his people were hunters and not loremasters. Roa looked back at the amulet and peered at it as closely as she could. “There is a device engraved on it,” she said, almost to herself. “It looks like…” She dropped it to the table as though it were a burning coal. “I know that device!” she said like iron. “Seven stars above a crown: the device of Ar-Pharazôn, last king of the Numenoreans; the Golden King who lead the Men of the West to their destruction and who lies now in the Caves of the Forgotten until the breaking of the world!”

Snaveling stared at Roa, shocked by her rage. Toby opened his eyes and looked back and forth between Man and Woman. “Is that bad?” he asked in a small voice.

Roa’s eyes blazed. “Ar-Pharazôn was the fool and lapdog of Sauron. It was he who destroyed the glory of Numenor and lead her to ruin. And you, Snaveling, bear his device and claim it as an heirloom. How did your family come by it, and what manner of people are you…” Her eyes grew wide at the suddenness of a horrible idea. She leaned forward and glared at Snaveling with all the intensity of her people’s will. “Tell me Man of the South. You’ve said many times that you’ve wandered the wastes of Middle-Earth for years uncounted. But you do not appear so old. I would deem you a man in his early forties.” She paused again and fixed Snaveling with her eyes. “How old are you Snaveling?”

The Man felt suddenly hot and confused. What did that matter? He cast about again but Roa’s eyes drew him back to her. He struggled to resist them, but it was pointless. Imperceptibly, his shoulders sagged. “Seventy-eight,” he whispered. “I am seventy-eight.”

[Witch_Queen]

Aduthondiel
The elf was tired of waiting around to talk to Aman. The party was well under way and all she wanted to do was ride her horse where no one would disturb them. Adu refilled her mug and walked towards the stables so she could see how Count was. Adu saw that Count was fine actually it seemed that for once in his life the horse was finally at peace. That is fine my friend since it seems that we will not have to worry about fighting a war anytime soon. You can finally rest my old friend. After all we have been together for so many years.

Since her horse was fine Adu turned back towards the inn walking slowly so she could enjoy what peace she could find. I'm not use to celebrations like this. Plus it seems like the musicians are about to begin playing. It will only end in another day alone. Everything seemed better to her now that she had gotten some fresh air. Adu's mug was half empty now and she didn't know whether or not she should refill it. Too much ale is bad for an elf. Better stop now while I'm ahead. She looked around to see that Aman and the "band" was moving some tables. They can't do it all by themselves. Better help them before they get hurt. "Could you use some help with those tables?" Adu didn't wait for an answer. The tables were heavier than they looked. It was either that or she had definatley drunk too much ale. "Aman can I speak with you for a moment? That is if you can spare a few seconds."

[Galadel Vinorel]

Soon we shall play, thought Galadel, oh how my hands long to play. Her hand once again ran the length of her flute as Aman began to move the tables around for them to play, sing and dance.

Beside the elf she heard one of the hobbit lasses, Lily say, "Why don't we all go help Aman push the table over? Those are pretty big tables, and Aman looks like she could use some help." Lily stood up and began to walk towards Aman. Galadel stood up at well, looking over at the other hobbit girls.

"Do not worry about playing in front of the crowd. I am sure that you all will do well," Galadel said to them, smiley reassuringly down at them. Then she added softly, as if to herself,"It will be good to play here again, after so many years." Shaking herself as if from a dream, Galadel reached down a hand to help Mira stand up. "Come my fellow flute player. Let us help Aman move those tables so that those butterflies in your stomach may calm down a bit," said Galadel, winking at the hobbit, "By the way, I believe that I forgot my manners and did not tell you all my name. I am Galadel of the Lothlorien, and I am pleased to meet all of you." The elf bowed her head cordially as she said this.

She then straightened and moved towards Aman and Lily to help move the tables. Out of the corner of her eye the elf saw Roa and Tobias sitting with a transformed Snaveling in their midst. In Roa's hand she held Snaveling's amulet, now throughly polished and shining like new. Even from afar Galadel could feel the air of fear and mystery that was surrounding the three at the moment. Something is terribly wrong, I must go over there when I am finished playing, thought Galadel.

But suddenly Galadel stopped in midstride. She began to shake. Someone was calling to her through the mind. Turning, she faced Roa, who was staring directly at her. Silently Roa was screaming at her, for something was very wrong. Entering Roa's mind, with her permission, the elf searched through her last few memories and thoughts.

Roa took it in her hands and turned it over in the light. It was ancient and made of an odd metal that shone like silver… Roa gasped. “Mithril!” she said. “Why this amulet is made of pure mithril! Where did you get it?”

Snaveling paused before answering, the unexplainable dread growing in his mind like panic. “It has always been mine. I did not steal it, if that is what you mean!” He could have bitten his tongue out for such an answer, and to make amends he answered more civilly. “It is an heirloom. My uncle gave it to me before I left home. It’s supposed to be from the First Days – when our people first returned to Middle-Earth from across the Sea.”

“You say ‘returned’” Roa replied slowly, her eyes growing hard. “You said once before that your people were related to the Black Numenoreans. Is it of them that you speak?” Snaveling shrugged. In truth, he knew little about his heritage, for his people were hunters and not loremasters. Roa looked back at the amulet and peered at it as closely as she could. “There is a device engraved on it,” she said, almost to herself. “It looks like…” She dropped it to the table as though it were a burning coal. “I know that device!” she said like iron. “Seven stars above a crown: the device of Ar-Pharazôn, last king of the Numenoreans; the Golden King who lead the Men of the West to their destruction and who lies now in the Caves of the Forgotten until the breaking of the world!”

Snaveling stared at Roa, shocked by her rage. Toby opened his eyes and looked back and forth between Man and Woman. “Is that bad?” he asked in a small voice.

Roa’s eyes blazed. “Ar-Pharazôn was the fool and lapdog of Sauron. It was he who destroyed the glory of Numenor and lead her to ruin. And you, Snaveling, bear his device and claim it as an heirloom. How did your family come by it, and what manner of people are you…” Her eyes grew wide at the suddenness of a horrible idea. She leaned forward and glared at Snaveling with all the intensity of her people’s will. “Tell me Man of the South. You’ve said many times that you’ve wandered the wastes of Middle-Earth for years uncounted. But you do not appear so old. I would deem you a man in his early forties.” She paused again and fixed Snaveling with her eyes. “How old are you Snaveling?”

The Man felt suddenly hot and confused. What did that matter? He cast about again but Roa’s eyes drew him back to her. He struggled to resist them, but it was pointless. Imperceptibly, his shoulders sagged. “Seventy-eight,” he whispered. “I am seventy-eight.”

Oh no, thought Galadel, how can this be? Could Snaveling be the heir of Ar-Pharazon? No, no, he does not seem noble enough...but, yet...the amulet

Galadel starred hard at Roa and the woman returned her stare. "What should we do," said Roa into the elf's mind. "Nothing," returned Galadel, "Not until we know more. Do nothing, Roa, until I return to you after playing the song." Roa nodded, and turned back to Tobia and Snaveling.

Galadel sighed and moved once again towards Aman and the others, to move the tables for the singing, playing, and dancing that would soon begin.

[Amanaduial the archer]

Aman smiled her thanks at the hobbit maids and Aduthondiel as they helped her to push the heavy tabls together with magnificent effort. Looking at their faces, she saw underneath the nervousness some sort of sparkling anticipation, something which over-rode the anxiousness and inspired the Innkeeper's confidence. Yes, they would be fine, she was sure.

Standing in front of the tables which, as an afterthought, she had brought to a more central position in the room, greeted by puzzled looks from the customers, Aman clapped her hands twice and addressed the people, big and small, all around.

"Ladies and gentlemen," she began, her Rohirrim accent clear and crisp, causing the room to quiet a little. "We are priviledged tonight to have some extra entertainment for this party - a group of musicians to play for us. I present to you, to celebrate a new era of this Inn, Misses Willow, Daisy, Mira and Lily!"

To the sound of applause, Aman helped the hobbits gracefully onto chairs around the tables and from there onto the tables itself. Willow was last and as Aman helped her up, she held onto her hand for a moment, smiling as the hobbit looked down at her. "Thank you," the Innkeeper whispered.

Turning to one side, Aman looked inquiringly at Aduthondiel as she drew her to one side. "Thank you for your help there, miss - now how can I help you?"

[bilbo_baggins]

As Enessar passed the table with the shady man and the pretty woman he overheard a suprising tidbit.

"Seventy-eight?" he mused to himself, "and the man looks not older than mid forties; obviously he is of the Kindred-born, the Numenoreans. Though whether Black or Dunedain, I shall have to learn."

Pardoning himself for the intrusion, he sat near the couple, listening intently. He noticed the woman glanced over at a fellow Eldar, a female. "Now why would she do something like that?" he wondered, trying to understand this strange turn of events in this humble establishment.

"I think I'll keep my eye on this pair for a time," Enessar said to himself, "They are definitely worth my while."

[Roa_Aoife]

Roa paused, eyes that were usually alert unfocused. With one hand she loosely held the amulet, with the other she grasped the edge of the table. Taking Galadel's advice, she handed the amulet back to SNaveling and regained control. Roa forced herself to smile, and relax. All in due time... She looked at her friends across the table; both seemed rather wary of her sudden calm. With one last glace at Galadel, she focused her attention back to her friends.

"Forgive my outburst, I was taken by surprise. That is no rare trinket, Snaveling. Be careful of whom you reveal it to." For the first time in a long time, Roa felt truly afraid. As a servant of Isuldur's heir, she would be veiwed as traitorous to the extreme by a descendant of Ar-Pharazôn. If Snaveling was truly his heir, he was her blood enemy. Oh, Bram! I wish you were here to guide me... In her distress, Roa did not notice the new presence just a few feet away.

[Maeggaladiel]

Eleniel blinked in suprise.

"Really?" she asked. "You just... woke up with nothing but a sword?" She shook her head, trying to think how it must feel to just wake up with no memories of a home, a family, or a life. She couldn't.

"My sympathies, friend," she said seriously. "I truly hope that you find what you seek. If I can do anything to help, just ask." Isaac's story reminded her of a tale she had heard about an elf named Ysuran Auondril with a simialar predicament. However, the elf had the help of a seer named Omduil to help him find his past, wheras Isaac did not seem to have anyone.

"Do you always travel alone?" she asked. "You should find a dog! Sure, Arrow can be a handful sometimes, but he is my best friend. I don't think I would be able to make my yearly journey without him."
***

Meanwhile...

Arrow's ears flattened against his head. That darned rabbit got away, ducking into a hole before the dog could catch him. Oh well. His mistress probably had some bread left, and it was high time for his ears to be scratched again.

After kicking a clod of dirt down the rabbit's hole for good measure, Arrow turned and trotted back towads the Green Dragon Inn.

He did not pay attention to the sound of an approaching carraige as he neared the cobblestone street.

[Archsage Isaac]

"Of course I travel alone, Eleniel. It doesn't bother me, I've no reason to be bothered. I do thank you for your sympathies, but I do not see how anyone could help me find what I need. No offense, this is my struggle, and I feel I must go alone." Isaac said, kindly. It made him feel good that she had referred to him as 'friend'.

Shaking his head, he turned to the general direction of where a woman had just went into an outburst. While looking, he saw the newly clothed Snaveling. I don't like the sounds of that at all. I only hope that no one becomes violent, not in here anyway... his thoughts were like this for several moments. He gripped his sword and waited to see where this chain of events would take them.

[Kransha]

“Umm…You’ll both have to forgive me, but I really don’t understand. All this about Ar-Phorzora or Phizaru or whatever you called him escapes me. The ways of the Shire are known to me, but this knowledge is not one of the many things I’ve learned. I caught something about Forgotten Caves, a Golden King, and something about a lapdog, but I think the rest of this is completely beyond me. Here now, let me understand. Snaveling: You are seventy-eight years old, yes?”

“Yes, seventy-eight.” responded the man of the south, looking dejected in the face of Roa, who seemed to have taken back her outburst. Toby only wished to understand what was going on. This whole thing had flown by with an incredible speed rearing it and the whole, heated discourse between Roa and Snaveling had been lost on him. He was trying now to regain what composure he had left.

“And the amulet mentioned prior is made of?”

“Mithril.” The single word of response was more than enough. Though he wasn’t wise of such things, Tobias Hornblower still had a good idea of what mithril was. Some material mined by dwarves…or was it elves? Well, it didn’t matter. The point was, it was either valuable, magical, or just very shiny.

“Ah yes, I do believe I caught that part. And Ar-Pharzaro is?”

“Not important.” Snaveling, probably impatient with the hobbit’s curiosity, nearly snapped back.

Toby felt that it probably was important, but didn’t seek the question any further. He understood mostly what had happened, though he didn’t know the details. Even though the fiery conversation was over, both Roa and Snaveling looked subdued. Toby, grumbling to himself as an odd silence tried to descend on the trio, spoke up with as jovial and jocund air as he had ever mustered. What came out sounded more like a oratory proclamation than a heartfelt request.

“Though it seems a little late to salvage the situation, I believe we should all remember that this is a party. Perhaps we should be ‘partying’ instead of sitting here and talking about such things. There is singing to be sung, tales to be told, dancing to be done, drink to be drunk, and all manner of things that could distract us from any sadness or anger within us. This is the Green Dragon Inn and celebration is afoot. For once, if you can, be merry, my friends. In the Shire, you can leave these troubles behind and join the festivities…If it’s the one favor you ever do me.” Toby chortled, even though he was deadly serious now. He was going to make sure that everything worked out this night. He hadn’t been charitable for nothing.

[Firefoot]

The tables were pushed together, and they were ready to begin.

"Ladies and gentlemen," announced Aman, "We are priviledged tonight to have some extra entertainment for this party - a group of musicians to play for us. I present to you, to celebrate a new era of this Inn, Misses Willow, Daisy, Mira and Lily!" Lily blushed at the applause as Aman helped the hobbits up onto the table. Lily surveyed the room quickly, with an unaccustomed feeling of height over the Big Folk. Many of the patrons of the inn were watching them expectantly, waiting for them to begin. Lily gave one more glance at her fellow musicians, seeing in their faces a touch of nervousness and anticipation combined with just the right amount of confidence and excitement to promise a stellar performance.

"Where shall we begin?" Lily murmured to the others. "A slow one to start maybe? Like the one Willow played?" The others nodded their assent, and Willow did the honors of beginning the song. Lily joined in a few beats later, and she could hear the others doing the same. The sound of fiddles and flutes and Daisy's clear voice rose over any other noise in the inn, and at a point unknown to Lily, she became completely ignorant of anything else happening in the inn, aware only of the harmony of their music and her fiddle. She played as she had never played before, and the music became her all, the only thing that currently mattered. When the song ended, she was almost shocked to find that she was still in the common room surrounded by many other people. A big grin lit her face when she realized what they had accomplished. It had been perfect.

[Eowyn Skywalker]

Willow breathed out tightly as she realized what she had just done. It came as if a dream later, standing up there, and entertaining the entire 'Dragon crowd that day. But they were there, and playing as one.

She had started the first song, and it had went well enough, in her opinion. A smile lit across her face, as she realized that she wasn't afraid to let herself be heard by all the others at the Inn. "A faster one next," she whispered to Lily. "You played one before, go for it!"

Willow smiled openly, and let herself fall into the music, to play as she never had played before. She let her fiddle become a part of her, as if it was part of her arm, and the sound rose up, and across the Inn, the sounds of the fiddle, and flute played together. It was beautiful.

Never before had Willow let herself play in this manner, and she was enjoying every bit of it. The music swelled up from within her, and was the sweetest thing she had ever heard.

And the music filled the Inn, filling the air with music.

[Witch_Queen]

Aduthondiel
"Thank you for your help there, miss - now how can I help you?" Adu was glad that she was finally going to get a chance to talk to Aman.
"Miss Aman, I am Aduthondiel. Well Crystal and Hama call me Adu. I was wondering if there was any way I could possibly help with the celebration for the rest of the night. Crystal has gone to find Angry and Hama went back to Rohan to take over the position of General." Adu went on to tell Aman about how Crystal was told about her father's death. How Hama had decided that he was the right one to take over for General Dorian.

"All I want to do is find something to do tonight besides sit around and watch everyone else. Plus Count seems too cozy to go out for a ride tonight. I guess I have no one else to talk to so I decided that I wanted to help in any way I could." Adu wanted to help or atleast find herself to be usefull in some way. There was usually something for her to do back in Rohan when Dorian was there. Yet that time had passed and Adu didn't know what else she was going to do when Hama returned with the rightful position of General.

Hama will return and we will finally be able to move on with life. Hopefully there will not be a war for many years. Adu smiled at the thought of Hama returning to the Shire.

[Amanaduial the archer]

Aman was a little taken aback by the odd request.

"My dear, it is a party! The best way to help me would be to enjoy yourself - and I say that truly," she added sincerely, though with a smile, laying a hand on Aduthondiel's arm. "I had heard some things about Crystal, besides the parts that she had told me, but this Dorian character..." she blew out and shook her head. "All I can say is that it is well that to curse the dead is bad luck for the things I might be tempted to say!

"Aduthondiel, I...I would honestly like you to enjoy yourself. There is nothing that needs doing really, for I have three servers already," she said, referring to Hawthorne, Buttercup and Ruby. "Have a drink. Take a seat. Listen to the music. Find some conversation - there is certainly plenty! Or," she added, looking up as the music sped up into a lively jig. "find a partner, any partner, and lead us in a dance!"

Looking up at the hobbits on their makeshift stage, Aman smiled. They were all now slightly flushed but had a victorious glint in their eyes as their fingers sped over the strings or as they sang gustily. They were really getting into it, and it had lightened the mood of the Inn in a fresh spurt of merry-making - and, as predicted, the drinks were flowing as fast as the music.

[Feared Half-Elf]

"Larnas Eare," she muttered. "I have heard of it. Myself, I was born in a little known, small forest far to the east, far beyond the Black Land. When the War of the Ring threatened, I was drawn to these lands, Rohan and Gondor mainly, although I did visit Rivendell. I now live in Eryn Lasgalen, and have no intention of returning home for the present." she replied. There was a reason for her not returning to her homeland, but she had no intention of revealing it unless somebody asked outright.

She tweaked the skirts of her simple dress, and was surprised that she wasn't feeling so uncomfortable. 'That's what company does to you.' She thought. 'It forces you to relax. At least I'm not moping in a corner like a punished child, like earlier. I really should learn to relax in a party when I'm alone.'

[Maeggaladiel]

Of course I travel alone, Eleniel. It doesn't bother me, I've no reason to be bothered. I do thank you for your sympathies, but I do not see how anyone could help me find what I need. No offense, this is my struggle, and I feel I must go alone." Isaac said, kindly.

"No offense taken," said Eleniel. Her foot tapped on the floor in time with the music. Things had livened up in the Inn as soon as the makeshift stage had been set up in the center of the room. The musicians seemed to be enjoying themselves, as were all who listened to them. "To each his own, as I always say."

***
The carraige sped down the cobblestone street. The driver was late, and for that he would pay. Grumbling to himself, he urged the horses to go faster. As he neared the bend in the road, not far from the Green Dragon Inn, a silver dog stepped out into his path. The horses spooked and zig-zagged wildly across the road.

"Oi! Whoa, there!" yelped the driver, but the horses only ran faster. The dog was frozen in place like a statue, it's eyes wide in fear and confusion. THe driver yanked on the reigns with all his might, pulling the horses to the opposite side of the road. Thundering hooves missed the dog by inches, but the wooden carraige wheel caught the hapless mutt in the side.

The dog let out an almost human scream of pain, which frightened the horses further. The driver could not stop, so he was forced to leave the dog lying in the ditch.
***

The music was joined by an eerie screech from outside. Eleniel's heart missed a beat.

"ARROW!" she cried, leaping to the door. This was bad. This was very bad.

[Firefoot]

After their amazing first performance, Lily was quite ready to continue with the next song. Willow leaned over toward her and whispered, "A faster one next. You played one before, go for it!" Lily happily complied, and began playing the song which she had played earlier. If she had enjoyed the last song, she was in heaven now, playing the song that of her whole repertoire was her favorite, the song that was part of many of her earliest childhood memories. If she had stopped playing long enough to watch her fellow musicians, she would see that they were performing with the same gusto and enthusiasm as she was.

Suddenly Lily was jerked out of the captivating harmony of the music by a scream of pain and a shout that she could not make out. Lily blundered on, hoping she hadn't messed up too badly, and was able to get back in beat, but her concentration was lost, and she was unable to play with the same enthusiasm she had felt just seconds before. Lily had never been one to ignore someone in pain, whether that someone was a young hobbit, one of the Big Folk, or even an animal. She finished the song up with grace. She couldn't see that any of the other people in the common room were paying them much attention anyway, as it seemed many of them were as curious as she as to what had happened outside the Inn.

"What should we do?" Lily asked. "Should we keep going, or should we find out what happened and whether we can help and then come back to playing?" Lily personally was in favor of finding out what had happened and trying to help especially if someone or something was hurt, but if the others all thought it would be better to keep playing, she would stick with them continue playing. She waited anxiously for their answers.

[Archsage Isaac]

Isaac had been caught up in the music, but was snapped out of it when Eleniel screamed and ran by him. He had heard the scream of pain from outside. He put the weighted cape he'd removed back on and replaced his sheathe on his hip before quickly giving chase after Eleniel. He ran through the doors.

He barely saw Eleniel running back the way that he'd come in. Now that he was outdoors, he knew that he could really move. Isaac ran after her as fast as he could, quickly catching up to her. "What's wrong, Eleniel? What has happened..." His voice trailed off as he saw the horses and the carriage going past them. And where's he off to in such a hurry? he thought, still a bit foggy on the exact details. That is, until he caught a glimpse of something lying in a ditch nearby...

[Eowyn Skywalker]

Willow herself jerked a bit as she heard the scream, but tried to tune it out to the best of her abilities.

Once they finished the tune, Willow tucked her violin under her arm. Lily turned to her. "What should we do?" Lily asked. "Should we keep going, or should we find out what happened and whether we can help and then come back to playing?"

Willow caught a tone to the other hobbit's vioce, that implied that she really wanted to go see what happened; a tone of compassion, fear, and anger that something had been hurt. "Tell you what, Lily," Willow said quickly; urgently. "You go and see what happened. The others too, if they so wish. I'll carry on the music for now, and when you get back we can continue. If you want to see what's happening, go! I can handle this, and if Mira, and Daisy wish to go, well, I'll manage. Just return fairly fast, after you find out what happened!"

She spoke quickly because she detested the thought that someone might be injured, but yet did not wish to detain Lily, if she desired to see what was going on. Willow herself was not too curious, she never had been, but she was not one to hold up another in those manners.

"Go," she said. "I do not care if you want to. I can manage, Lily. Go and see what happened!"

Willow took her fiddle back, and tucked it under her chin. "Daisy, Mira, are you going to go with Lily? If you are, I'll manage her. Just be fairly quick!"

[Mad Baggins]

Mira faltered in mid-chord as the scream sounded, but gathered herself together quickly and managed to complete the song. When it was done, the four hobbits gathered together to decide what to do. Lily clearly wanted to go see whether someone was hurt. Willow noticed as well, and said, "Tell you what, Lily. You go and see what happened. The others too, if they so wish. I'll carry on the music for now, and when you get back we can continue. If you want to see what's happening, go! I can handle this, and if Mira, and Daisy wish to go, well, I'll manage. Just return fairly fast, after you find out what happened!"

She spoke this quickly, adding soon after, "Go. I do not care if you want to. I can manage, Lily. Go and see what happened!" She tucked her fiddle under her chin and asked the other two hobbits if they were going to join Lily or stay with her.

Mira spoke up. "I cannot look at injured people; I don't know why but it has always been like that for me. I will stay here with Willow." She drummed her fingers on her flute, waiting for Daisy to announce her choice.

[Fordim Hedgethistle]

Snaveling’s mind whirled. Much as he wanted to match Toby’s mood of celebration, he found it difficult to centre himself sufficiently. He was tempted to order another six or seven strong ales, but he resisted, remembering how the drink had got him into trouble earlier in the evening. He was spared having to reply to Toby, or to Roa, by the arrival of a stranger who sat at their table and looked at them without a word. Before Snaveling could demand what he wanted a bunch of ridiculous Halflings climbed onto a table and began belabouring the crowd with one of their songs. Snaveling was stunned to see Galadel playing her flute alongside them. Briefly, his eyes met those of the Elf and he felt her reach out to him with her mind. Snaveling slammed shut the doors of his consciousness and he could feel the Elven woman recoil with surprise.

Who in the name of my father is Ar-Pharazôn he wondered. The “Golden King” sounded familiar, but he had never paid much heed to the old tales of the First Days. There had been a story of a great Prince called…what was it?…Tar-something, Tar-Calion! That was it. He had led a fleet to assail the Enemies of the West, but before he could complete his journey…or had it been before?…he had been deposed by traitors. Snaveling remembered the childish tales that his uncle told him about the young nephew and heir of the Prince who had left their island kingdom and come to hide among Snaveling’s people. The gods had destroyed the Island in vengeance for the overthrow of the rightful King by the traitorous group who called themselves…what was it they called themselves? The loyal? The Faithful! Snaveling shook his head – what did such fairy-tales have to do with him?

Roa was looking at him. She has apparently recovered from whatever had upset her, but Snaveling could see that she was simply biding her time until she could confer with Galadel. He put the amulet about his neck once more, but this time he made sure to slip it beneath his tunic. “You are quite right Tobias,” he said as soon as the music had stopped. “We should do our utmost to enjoy the tenor of this night. I for one could use some mirth!” But even as he spoke, the weight of the evening lay heavy on him. To distract himself from the darkness of his own thoughts he turned to the stranger who now sat beside them. “What of you, sir? You must think us a strange group to be so caught up in dark matters when there’s a party to enjoy.”

[Beruthiel]

Daisy's face was flushed from dancing and she wiped sweat from her brow. She for one had nearly fallen off the table top from the shock of the piercing cry of pain from outside. The other hobbits had quickly finished the song and were still standing on top of the table tops, above the heads of the inn's patrons. The little hobbit lass felt quite strange on that table and she dreaded looking over the edge of the table. Thankfully she had been distracted by the mysterious shriek and stopped worrying about the height from the ground.

She joined the other hobbitlasses in the group. Daisy was aware of the eyes watching the hobbit lasses discussing what they should do. Lily obviously wanted to find out what had happened and secretly Daisy agreed with her. She didn't want to leave Willow alone however and when Mira voiced her choice Daisy felt it would alright if she went with Lily. The thought of someone or something in so much pain that they could scream like that was very disturbing.

"You two will be fine here won't you?" Daisy asked Willow and Mira. Both of them nodded hurriedly.
"Yes, alright then. Lily I'll go with you. Lets go."
Daisy said shortly, anxious to get off the table tops and to find out what had happened outside. She hopped down onto one of the chairs and then onto the floor, nearly tripping over her long dress. She waited for Lily to come down as well before heading towards the door.

[Galadel Vinorel]

As the hobbit lasses left to discover who had screamed, Galadel quickly moved away, knowing that they could take care of the injured. Placing her flute back into the pouch at her side, she quickly made her way back to the table where Roa, Snaveling, Tobias, and a new arrival sat. If my eyes are not mistaken, thought Galadel, he looks as if he were one of the Eldar, one of my kin.

Yet, the female elf's eyes strayed from the stranger towards Snaveling. I am worried about him, the elf thought, how will he take the news of his past? No wonder he was able to block my mind probe. Those of that blood always could. Galadel smiled to herself, memories of long ago filling her mind. Ah, sweet Numenor, Galadel said to herself sadly, How I miss your blessed shores! Oh why did thou have to follow the terrible guidance of Sauron?...No, this is not the time for this. There is work to be done. The elf shook her head, as if to awake from a dream.

As Galadel approached the table, Roa turned to her and smiled a wary smile, relieved to see the elf. The elf nodded to the woman, and the ranger returned the greeting. Then Galadel sat down in the chair beside Roa just as Snaveling was saying something to the stranger. “What of you, sir? You must think us a strange group to be so caught up in dark matters when there’s a party to enjoy," said Snaveling, looking over at the traveler.

[Maeggaladiel]

Her body shaking, Eleniel ran to the gray figure lying in a ditch across the road. She sunk to her knees at Arrow's side. Red stained his silver fur like wine on gray silk.

She was dimly aware of the crowd of patrons who had run outside to see what the commotion was about, but she paid them little heed, her mind numbed.

"Arrow," she whispered softly. The dog whined misrebly.

Arrow had been her dearest friend and traveling companion for years. She had raised him herself; he was the silvery runt of an otherwise coal black litter. He had comforted her in sadness, joined in her merriment, and protected her from harm. And now--

"Stop it," she told herself. Arrow thought that she was talking to him and ceased his whining. Eleniel blinked back tears. Even now, in this moment of pain, her faithful dog heeded his mistress' orders.

"Good boy," she whispered, scratching his nose with one hand and exploring his wound with the other. She sighed in relief. It was not a fatal blow, as she had feared, but he would need medical attention.

How would she move him? He was not a small dog by any stretch of the imagination, and she feared that abusive handling would cause him more pain. Where would he be safe?

She looked behind her, suprised to see the number of people who had come to her side. Isaac was among them.

"Arrow is hurt," she said, her voice shaking. "Could you help me move him to the stable? And is anyone here a healer?" Arrow's tail wagged a little as he saw Isaac.

[Archsage Isaac]

Isaac crouched down beside Eleniel. Upon seeing Isaac, Arrow wagged his tail. "Here, I'll carry him back." Isaac said, slowly moving to Arrow. Eleniel looked at him like he was crazy. "Trust me, I can carry him." Isaac had the upmost confidence in himself. Quickly, he walked into the ditch.

Arrow was on the bank, making Isaac's job of picking him up that much easier. He placed one hand under Arrow's neck, the other near the base of his tail. He stepped back out of the ditch. Arrow began to whine again, just a bit. "Arrow, save your strength until we get back to the stables..." Isaac whispered to the dog. "Eleniel, you'll have to keep him calm while we walk." said Isaac, slowly taking a step back in the direction of the Inn.

[Feared Half-Elf]

Hearing the scream from outside, Elkamia apologised to her companions and fled out the door, hitching up her now troublesome long skirt with one hand. Anybody looking at her would think her for a madwoman, rather than a dignified elf. She didn't care for their thoughts at this moment.

A small group gathered around the ditch. A man began to carry a silvery dog out of the ditch, and Elkamia went to the side of the woman who she assumed was the dog's owner.

"Excuse me, I cannot help but wonder if that dog is yours. If my skills are required, I am happy to lend them. My name is Elkamia, I have a skill with herblore and healing." Years in the wilderness had taught her much about herbs and their uses.

[Witch_Queen]

Aduthondiel
Adu decided that Aman was right. Someone needed to get the dancing started so Adu began dancing all by herself. The music was wonderful but no one was really enjoying it. Adu danced passed a couple of hobbits and returned to pull them out to the dance floor. I might be seen as a drunk elf. I don't care. It is about time for me to enjoy myself Adu giggled as she danced around the inn pulling people out of their chairs to join her in dance.

She wasn't sure if she wanted to sit down and drink another mug of ale.She looked over at Aman and began to laugh again. Adu wasn't sure about being the only one dancing all by themself. She still missed Hama but knew that she had to make sure that while he was gone she was able to stay happy. So many people were dancing now and Adu wasn't sure what else to do. Once the music stopped Adu would return back to her miserable state. She wished that Crystal and Angry was there so she could see the happy couple dance around in merriment. Never before had Adu been able to see Crystal and Angry enjoy each others company without having to worry about Dorian ruining everything.

I am glad that everything is turning out right. To think it only seems like yesterday when I first met Crystal. That was when Crystal was just a little girl on her father's knee. Those were the days. They always grow up and eventually there is some sort of trouble between them and yourself. Yet that is the way it is. Adu countinued to dance and giggle despite her on growing fear of Hama never returning. "Its a wonderful night to dance to wonderful music."

[Maeggaladiel]

Eleniel was suprised at how easily and gently Isaac gathered the large dog into his arms and bore him out of the ditch.

"Eleniel, you'll have to keep him calm while we walk," he said. Eleniel nodded.

"Thank you," she said. Then she turned to the ball of fur in his arms. "Everything will be fine, Arrow," she said in reply to his soft whining.

"Excuse me," came a voice from behind her. Eleniel turned, suprised, and found herself looking into the eyes of an elven woman. "I cannot help but wonder if that dog is yours," the elf continued. "If my skills are required, I am happy to lend them. My name is Elkamia, I have a skill with herblore and healing."

"Yes, thank you!" said Eleniel, relieved. "My name is Eleniel, and this is indeed my dog, Arrow. I think.. I think he was hit by a carriage. I do not think his wound is fatal, but he needs some medical attention. I can pay you for your services, Lady Elkamia."

[Firefoot]

Daisy had gotten down from the table and was waiting for Lily to follow. Lily hurried after her and they headed out the door, where they could see that a crowd of people was already gathered. Lily nudged the person standing next to her.

"What's going on?" she asked. "Is somebody hurt?"

"Aye, someone's dog was hit by a carriage is what they're saying. Not a fatal wound, but serious nonetheless," the man replied.

"Thank you, sir," said Lily. She and Daisy pushed to the front of the crowd. Lily didn't know if her help was needed or not but she was plenty willing to give it. She hated to see living things suffer. Up ahead, she saw a tall man carrying the dog she had heard to be injured and two women talking together. She realized it was the same woman and dog that had sat and listened to their music a short while ago.

"Come on," she said to Daisy. They walked up to the two women. Lily said, "My name is Lily, and this is my friend Daisy. I hope your dog's okay? Do you need any help?"

[Maeggaladiel]

"My name is Lily, and this is my friend Daisy. I hope your dog's okay? Do you need any help?" Eleniel was tore her eyes away from her dog to meet the worried gazes of two hobbit lasses.

"Pleased to meet you, Ladies Lily and Daisy." Eleniel said, recognizing them as two of the Inn's musicians. "Although I wish we had met under happier circumstances. Yes, I believe my dog will be all right, after he recieves some medical attention." She looked at the elven woman at her side. "This kind woman here has offered her aid as a healer."

"As for helping, I'm.. I'm not quite certain what needs to be done." The quaver had returned to her voice. "Although I'm sure Arrow here will be pleased with all the extra attention he'll be getting. We're trying to take him to the stables, where he can rest. I'd keep him in my room, but I doubt that the inkeeper would appreciate us dragging a bleeding dog through the Green Dragon's eating quarters." She smiled, trying to mask her worry with humor.

[piosenniel]

GREEN DRAGON INN FACTS:

It is the 4th Age, year 12. By the Shire Calendar it is year 1433 S.R. (Shire Reckoning).

King Elessar is on the throne of the Reunited Kingdom of Arnor and Gondor.

Mirkwood has been reclaimed by the Elves and is now called Eryn Lasgalen.

Paladdin Took, Pippin’s father, is Thain of the Shire. (Thain is an honorary title for the military leader of the Shire. The title has been held in the Took Family since the position was first established in 3rd Age 1979 with Bucca of the Marish as First Thain.) Paladdin Took dies in year 13, and will be succeeded by his son, Peregrin, ‘Pippin’, Took.

Samwise Gamgee is Mayor of the Shire, having succeeded Will Whitfoot in 1427 S.R.

The Innkeeper, in the Green Dragon Inn of this forum, is:
Aman – a young woman from Rohan.

Before her, the Innkeeper was Piosenniel, and before her it was Dwarin, the Dwarf.

*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+

Other ongoing characters in the Inn:

Ruby Brown, Hobbit – not married – server and maid

Buttercup Brownlock, Hobbit – not married – kitchen assistant and maid

*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+*+

Ongoing characters from outside the Inn:

Halfred Whitfoot – local Shiriff from Bywater and Postmaster for this area of the Shire; his pony’s name is Dumpling.

Fredgar Hornblower – local Shiriff from Hobbiton – played by Fool of a Took
_____________________________________________

Please Note:

No 'SAVES' are allowed in the Inn.

With the exception of the Innkeeper and the Moderators, no OOC (Out Of Character) comments are allowed in the Inn.

Only the Innkeeper, Amanaduial, or the Moderators move the timeline for the Inn forward.

Visitors to the Inn will need to read the posts that come before theirs to get an idea of what time it is in the Shire, what the weather is like, and what is happening.

Please be familiar with the rules for the Inn and Games in The Red Book of Westmarch, the first topic in the Shire.
__________________________________


IT IS NOW LATE EVENING. THE WEATHER IS PLEASANT.

THE PARTY CELEBRATING THE REBUILDING OF THE INN IS IN FULL SWING - PLENTY OF FOOD, DRINK, MUSIC, DANCING!

[Archsage Isaac]

"I'd keep him in my room, but I doubt that the inkeeper would appreciate us dragging a bleeding dog through the Green Dragon's eating quarters." Eleniel had said, trying her hardest to hide the worry in her voice. Isaac heard it quite clearly, he heard lots of things that nobody else did. He could almost sense the fear and anxiety in her voice. He'd been able to do that for as long as he could remember, never thinking anything of it.

The group reached the stables shortly enough, but Isaac was in quite a predicament. While walking he'd originally planned on using his blanket as a makeshift bed for Aarow, but hadn't brough his traveling bag with him. Before entering the stables, he turned to Eleniel and spoke. "Miss Eleniel, would you be so kind as to do me another favor. Beside the table where we were sitting was my bag. In it, directly on top, is a blanket and a small vial of liquid. Would you bring them to me, please?" Aarow began to whimper a bit again, Isaac ran his fingers through the dogs silver coat gently in an attempt to keep him calm.

[Eowyn Skywalker]

Willow glanced at Mira. "Well, then I guess we should keep going, even if we've lost half of our audience!"

She grinned wryly, and sighed. "But we're left to hold this open now, so come on, Mira. Let's get going. You start, if you'd like, and I'll try to follow along with whatever you come up with. Shouldn't be that hard."

Willow tucked her redish fiddle under her chin, and tried hard not to worry too much about what might've happened. She lifted her bow, and, and waited for Mira to start the song.

She looked around the Inn. So many of the people had chose to dash out, while others were still there, sitting, and waiting. It was such a different sight, so different from what Willow knew.

She smiled, and awaited Mira's start, so she could follow in with whatever song the other hobbit chose.

[Maeggaladiel]

"Miss Eleniel, would you be so kind as to do me another favor. Beside the table where we were sitting was my bag. In it, directly on top, is a blanket and a small vial of liquid. Would you bring them to me, please?" Isaac asked her once they had reached the stables. Eleniel nodded.

"Of course," she said. Running back to the Inn, she found the bag Isaac had spoken of. It felt strange rummaging though someone else's things. As he had said, the blanket and strange vial were directly on top. She gathered them in her arms and returned to the stable.

"Here you are," she said. "What's in the vial?"

[Amanaduial the archer]

Aman, curious and a little irritated by the sudden rush out, decided to follow.

Although quite a number had gone outside, many were drifting back in now, and most were unconcernedly continuing, as the music continued - two of the group had vanished, but Aman was fairly sure most of the partygoers hadn't really noticed, and the little jig Willow was playing was most agreeable, lively and cheerful. Aman was able to slip ot quite easily.

"Excuse me...excuse me..." Aman slipped to the front of the crowd deftly until she was in front of Eleniel. "Excuse me, ma'am, may I ask what is the matt-" her eyes fell on the dog and she gasped a little. "Good grief..."

"We have help," the woman replied steadily, her voice only shaking a little as she couldn't resist a glance in the direction of the dog's bloody bulk.

"You are sure?" A nod answered the Innkeeper and she pursed her lips, then murmured regretfully, "I would let you into the Inn to tend to him, but there are certain standards..."

"I understand, Aman. The stables..."

"Absolutely," the Innkeeper agreed quickly, glad this girl was using her head even though it was obviously her dog and had shaken her quite badly. "There are a few spare stalls near the front. I ask only that you do not go too far down - the horses are easily panicked, and that the main bulk of people could stay outside. Oh and...did you see who did this?"

[Archsage Isaac]

Isaac waited patiently as Eleniel returned, blanket and vial in hand. He nodded and smiled. "The vial contains a draught that, when consumed, induces a numb state on the entire body. Aarow won't feel the pain from his wound, that is, if you want me to give it to him." Isaac said as Eleniel began to speak will Aman.

Aarow looked up at him, still wagging that tail of his. "You'll be ok soon, just stay calm for now." Aarow rested his head once again on Isaac's arm, breathing heavily. Isaac turned to Eleniel once again. "Hey, Eleniel, when you're done talking would you please place the blanket in one of the front stalls if you would."

[ArathorofBarahir]

(My name is Hamfast Baggins, I am the son of Rudigar Baggins and Pearl Took, sister to Peregrin. I have brown hair and eyes, green pants a brown button up collared shirt and a tan vest. My voice is somewhat deep but not extremely deep. Now most hobbits are between the heights of 3 foot 4 and 3 foot 9, me on the other hand am 4'2 just a little shorter than your average Dwarf. I was born in the year 1400 (S.R.) and will soon be celebrating my coming of age birthday.)

As I enter the inn I feel all eyes upon me, and then they left I slowly make my way up to the bar. I find a seat and take it, looking around at all of the people in the Inn.

"I like a pint of ale Aman." I said She quickly gets my drink poured and hands it to me. "Here you go good sir and thank you for coming to the Green Dragon." she replied I nod and slowly start to listen to the tedious gossip of others and tune into the conversations around me. I try to take in all that is happening when suddenly a beautiful hobbit girl walks through the door and our eyes meet and I quickly turn around and ask Aman if she has any rooms available for the night. She replies that they do and she hands me a room key. I give her my mug take the key clumsily and head for my room. On my way to my room I run into the girl.

"My my you seem to be in a hurry. My name is Esmerelda Boffin. Ahh I know you you're Hamfast Baggins, you live just down the road from here across the way from me don't you?" She asked

"Yes I do, now if you'll excuse I've had a long day and I need some rest, it was good to see you Esmerelda." I replied

I made my way to room took off my pack shirt and vest and laid down in the bed. I began to drift off trying to sleep but the only thing I could think of was Esmerelda....

[Maeggaladiel]

"There are a few spare stalls near the front. I ask only that you do not go too far down - the horses are easily panicked, and that the main bulk of people could stay outside. Oh and...did you see who did this?" The inkeeper was talking to her now. When the woman had first approached her, Eleniel was worried that she had caused too much of a commotion and that Aman was here to tell her off. She gave a mental sigh of relief as she realized the innkeeper wanted to help. Eleniel ran her fingers through her hair, which did little to help considering that she was wearing a braid.

"Thank you," she said. "And no... I did not see who..." her voice caught as she looked at her dog. "I didn't see who did this." She swallowed hard. "Although I assume it was a carriage."

She looked to Isaac, still holding the dog. She blushed, realizing that she had left him holding a very heavy and wounded animal while she was off chatting with people.

"Sorry about that," she said, spreading the blanket on the ground. "You did not have you use your own blanket, you know. And yes, I think Arrow would appreciate the contents of that vial." She gave a little laugh. "Sorry, I'm not making much sense right now. I'm just... overwhelmed."

[Feared Half-Elf]

"Nay, my lady, you need not pay me for my services." Elkamia told Eleniel, after she had run to get the man's requested phial and blanket. "I am a warrior more usually, and have spent many years out in the field. My healing and herblore I give freely to those who need it, as a way of repaying for all the lives I take as a warrior. I would not allow you to pay me." That was true, sometimes she killed men rather than orcs, and quite often regretted doing so.

She knelt beside the dog, where he had been layed. The man who had carried him there was there beside the dog also.

[Firefoot]

Lily had followed the group into the stable, still unsure if she could help or not. The dog, Arrow, was laid down in a stall a fair way away from the horses so they wouldn't get spooked. Lily watched all this, and in case anyone was paying attention to her, she said, "I'll be back in a minute." She had decided to take this opportunity to make sure her pony was housed properly. She wandered down the aisle to where the horses were at and found her chestnut pony toward the end.

"Hey, Clover, how ya doin'?" she murmured to him. The pony nuzzled her affectionately and Lily let herself into the stall. She saw that he had fresh water and clean straw and seemed to be doing all right. Lily whispered to him, "Do you like this place? It's been a while since you were housed in a nice stable like this." Clover gave a low nicker, and Lily took that as a yes.

"I'll come back later, okay?" Lily said. She let herself out of the stall and walked back down to where the injured dog lay. She could see that Daisy wasn't doing anything either, so Lily said to her, "I don't think our help is needed. Arrow will be all right, and that woman seems to know something about healing." She inclined her head to where the Elf was kneeling near the dog. "Maybe we should head back to the inn so Willow and Mira don't get too worried about us." Lily waited to hear what Daisy would say about her proposition.

[Mad Baggins]

Mira hesitated, searching her mind for a song. Suddenly her eyes lit up and she said quietly to Willow, "Do you know this tune? It is quite common." Putting her flute to her lips, she began to play a merry, fast song. Willow recognized it soon enough and her bow danced over the strings on her fiddle. The pair of hobbits soon forgot all about the scream of pain as they were embraced and lost in the music.

The remainder of the crowd that had not rushed outside danced and cheered, clapping their hands in time with the music. Two young hobbits began to jig merrily. The crowd roared even louder, clapping their hands as one and egging on the jigging hobbits. Mira paused playing, grinned, and resumed happily. She loved playing her flute; her heart soared when the music lightened others' spirits.

The tune went on, and when it finished Mira sucked in a long breath. She turned to Willow, saying, "There, that certainly lightened the mood! You choose the next song." She looked over her flute, making sure it was not damaged in any way, and waited for Willow's choice.

[Beruthiel]

Daisy watched as the poor dog lay limp on the floor of the stables. She felt quite helpless and very useless in the midst of these very able healers. She knew that there was nothing that she could do now that would help this poor dog except hope that he would be alright. Daisy looked around and saw that Lily was patting her own pony, a beautiful little thing. Lily left her pony's stall and saw Daisy standing behind the small group surrounding the dog. "I don't think our help is needed. Arrow will be all right, and that woman seems to know something about healing. Maybe we should head back to the inn so Willow and Mira don't get too worried about us."

Daisy nodded and glanced back at Arrow. She was sure he'd be alright though she was curious who could have been so careless to knock the poor dog over in the first place. "I agree. Come on, lets get back into the inn." Daisy hesitated in telling the group of elves and men that they were going back inside, they seemed far too preoccupied with Arrow and she didn't want to disturb them. The two hobbitlasses slipped out of the stables silently and made their way back into the inn.

It was quite late by now and Daisy yawned widely. As the two hobbits got closer to the main building of the inn they could hear that Mira and Willow were doing a fantastic job with the music. Daisy could see people clapping and cheering inside. She caught a glimpse of the two hobbit lasses on top of the tables, they looked like they were having a great time; dancing and playing their instruments.

Lily and Daisy pushed open the old door and headed straight back to the table where Mira and Willow were performing their song. It was a great dancing song and Daisy was tempted to start dancing right where she was, knowing quite well that no one would be able to see her if she did. However Lily dragged her along and they clambered back up onto the table top.

Mira and Willow finished off their song and Daisy said, "Looks like you to have been doing mighty well with this audience. Look at them!" She glanced over the crowd, almost all the faces had a smile and some where still tapping their hands along with the beat of the last song. She smiled at the two hobbit lasses who were grinning broadly already.

[Eowyn Skywalker]

Willow grinned at Daisy. "Yeah, I think we're doing fine here. It's not bad once you get used to it..."

She grinned broadly. "Well, come on now, get up here, and lead everyone in dancing, Daisy! And as for you, Lily... well, do you know this song."

Willow thought hard, and quickly, and a fast one came to mind: Reilly's Reel. She began the faster song, and hoped that she wouldn't mess up, as it was a trickier little piece, in her mind.

Her bow flew over the strings, and Willow was hardly aware that Daisy and Mira had joined up to lead everyone in dance.

Third finger... open A... Willow's mind was all arush as she recalled the song, and the fast tune from the depths of her mind. And she played, hearing Lily pick up fairly fast, and play along with her.

Willow didn't worry, she trusted that Lily could do okay on this song, the other hobbit was as skilled as she in the violin.

[Feared Half-Elf]

Elkamia knelt over the silvery dog on his blanket, and inspected how hurt he was. She looked up. "I need my full supply of herbs. If somebody could go down to the horses, you'll find a large silvery mare in one of that stalls. Hooked on the wall is my saddlebag, my herbs are in there if somebody could fetch the bag."

She hooked up her long skirt, and tied it in a knot at the side of her leg, pulling it out of the way. 'I don't care if it looks stupid, I don't want to fall and trip on top of the dog, just because I fell over my skirt. I'm just glad this dress doesn't have long sleeves.' She returned her thoughts to the task at hand, and hoped that someone had got her saddlebags.

[Archsage Isaac]

"I think Arrow would appreciate the contents of that vial." Eleniel told Isaac as he layed Aarow on the blanket. "Sorry, I'm not making much sense right now. I'm just... overwhelmed."

Isaac gave a slight laugh when Eleniel laughed. He removed the top from the vial and began to speak to Aarow. "Come on, open your mouth, Aarow." he coaxed. After repeating this several times, Aarow lifted his head and opened his mouth. Isaac poured the contents down Aarow's throat quickly so that Aarow could rest again. "There. It will take a few moments for the syrum to take effect, but as I said it will numb his body."

Isaac stood from his crouched position and walked to the back of the stables. Finding the mare that Elkamia had spoken of, Isaac grabbed the saddlebags and walked back to the stall Aarow had been placed in. "Here you are, Elkamia." said Isaac, offering the saddlebags to the elf.

[Memory of Trees]

Kyria was a little startled when Elkamia jumped up from the table. "Excuse me," she called over her shoulder as she hurried away. It seemed as if a dog had somehow been injured, and the elf maiden believed she could help. Kyria, while sorry for the animal, decided to stay out of the way.

I don't heal, she thought. She grimaced as the thought pained her. No, I can't heal. But she didn't want to dwell on the thought. Not tonight, when the stars shine so brightly, and she should be happy. Still...

Kyria pushed away from the table. "Please excuse me, also," she said, rising and nodding to her new-found friend. "I have some unfinished business that would require my attention now. Thank you for your company, Tiruviel. It is always good to see a friendly face when you are a stranger in a strange place. I hope we shall see each other again. Soon! I should like to talk of many things." She stopped, and smiled. Then Kyria was gone, stealing across the room like a silent white shadow.

He was coming.

She must be ready.

[nynnd1]

Bredan walked into the room that Miss Aman had given him, and she was right, the view was amazing. He had expected the shire to be nice from what he had taken from the stories, but he was not ready for the feeling that the place gave you, he really felt home. He had always listened to stories when he was a child, but his favourites were of the adventures of Frodo nine fingers and Sam the brave, Sam was his favourite of all the hobbits. Bredan had decided to study Hobbits, though study was completely the wrong word, he had more of a fascination of the race, he was amazed how Hobbits could live in what seemed to him to be a peaceful quiet land then suddenly they were fighting orcs and saving the world, Bredan had always wanted to know more about them. That was the reason he had decided to make for the Shire when he had to leave Gondor, he had not wanted to leave but he had no other choice that he could see, Bredan of Gondor had not been ready to leave.

"I wasn't ready to meet miss Aman as well,” Bredan thought out loud.

His thoughts then went to that strange Snaveling he did not like the look, or reputation that he seemed to have. Nobody seems to like him and they cannot be blamed for what I have seen already, confrontation was not what he wanted at all though, so he tried to forget that thought, but he seemed to trouble Miss Aman, and disturb this peaceful place, both were traits that Bredan did not like.

He heard a noise coming towards his room and drew his sword, it was better to be safe and someone might be chasing him from home, but where was home for Bredan, not sure if he could still call himself Bredan of Gondor or if Bredan of Middle Earth would more suit his current status. His sword shook in his hand, he had no cause to use it since he had been attacked by the men who had took his horse.

"Is there anything you want sir?"

It was Aman's voice, and Bredan was relieved, he wanted to spill out all his troubles and tell her why he was here and what he was running from, but it was not appropriate. He also had a strong temptation to ask about that Snaveling fellow but he thought that perhaps it would be better to ask someone else from the area, as he could not guess at what the connection was between snaveling and the lovely Aman.

"No, I am ok for the moment my lady, I thank you again and if there is anything I can do for you? I am here."

[Kitanna]

Deva found himself growing tired and Isaac had long since left him for a new companion. He looked around the crowded inn and the band was still playing and couples still dancing. He couldn't see Peony, but he guessed she was still with Aldor.

"Well, I guess it's off to bed for me." He said to no one in particular. He looked into his empty mug and sighed. He was tempted to get one more ale before turning in for the night, but he changed his mind.

Deva climbed up the stairs and entered the dark room. There were two beds, one had his bags on it and the other Peony's. He threw his stuff aside and laid down to get a nice long rest.

[Maeggaladiel]

Eleniel watched as Isaac brought forth a bag of herbs for the elven woman who was now kneeling at Arrow's side. The dog seemed more preoccupied with the numbing sensation taking over his tongue than the elf's slender fingers touching his wound. That was good.

The elf hiked her skirts up around her knees to avoid tripping over the dog. Eleniel was impressed. This woman was a warrior, a healer, a graceful elf, and a sensible thinker. She knew several people who would have worried more about their personal appearance than the well-being of a mongrel that they had never seen before.

"Again, I don't know how I can thank you both enough," Eleniel said. "I speak for Arrow, too." Hearing his name, the dog wagged his tail, although still fascinated with the lack of feeling that was spreading across his body.

Apparently, Eleniel would be staying at this Inn longer than she had anticipated. She found that she didn't particularly mind.

[Archsage Isaac]

Isaac was relieved of the saddlebags once Elkamia took them from him. He didn't stick around for the actual healing part. He merely kneeled down and scratched Aarow's nose. "Stay out of trouble out here, okay?" Isaac said. Aarow wagged his tail in agreement and Isaac stood and walked off. Before leaving he looked at Eleniel. "I'm going to go back to the inn, if you requre added assistance on my part, you'll know where to find me." he said. He slightly nodded and smiled before exiting the stables completely.

The front of Isaac's shirt had several small stains of Aarow's blood. Unfortunate. That's the third time this week he thought, slowly reaproaching the inn. A rather strong gust of wind had blown through and wreaked havoc on his appearance. Without too much thought, he smoothed out his hair and drew his cape around him in order to cover the blood stains. Isaac approached the inn doors once again. Slowly he pushed them open.

The sound of the music rushed over Isaac once again. Almost immediately he found himself in a better mood. He smiled to himself upon seeing the most peculiar thing. An elf, drunk as far as Isaac could tell, dancing in the center of the room all alone. I've not seen anything like that in my journeys, that's for sure... he thought as he made his way to where he'd been sitting before. This time when he sat down, the chair did not nearly break under his weight. Isaac sighed from relief at this fact before crossing his arms infront of his chest and watching the others.

[Witch_Queen]

Cree
Cree walked out of the tree line to see that the party had already gotten under way. She hadn't see Grimm all day and thought it would be good for her to try to find someone to talk to. Avalon rested on Cree's shoulder and the two of them walked towards the inn. On their way Cree say what looked like two figures standing there with a dog? Cree decided that going into the inn could wait a little bit. She wanted to investigate on this matter. As she got closer she saw the dog and some people talking. "Good evening?" Cree said as she got in speaking distance. Avalon let out a screech and Cree thought the dog was going to kill itself trying to get away from Avalon. "Sorry about that. I am Cree from Eryn Lasgalen and I believe that dog is the one you two are calling Arrow. That is if I'm wrong."

The look on Avalon's face only could tell that to the white crow it was only to be called dinner. Cree gave a scolding look to Avalon telling her to calm down. Cree had been in the woods all night trying to find Avalon some mice to eat. Yet her search had failed. Her black hair was loose around her face and every now and then it blocked her vision. Cree tucked her hair behind her ears and looked at the two people. They introduced themselves as Issac and Eleniel. She noticed that Aduthondiel was there with them. She hadn't seen her since the day she talked to Hama. "Adu where is Hama at this day?" Cree didn't know what to think when the elf said that he was gone to Rohan. Cree missed his company but not as much as she missed Grimm. "Well it is nice to talk to someone. That is if Avalon can calm herself down."

Cree walked over and got each one of them a mug of ale. Avalon still perched on her shoulder the two of them decided to hear the stories the two would have to tell. Perhaps even Adu would tell them a story.

[Maeggaladiel]

"Good evening?" The voice startled Eleniel. She turned and found herself looking into the hungry eyes of a large white bird. Arrow gave a yelp as it clacked its beak at him.

"Sorry about that. I am Cree from Eryn Lasgalen and I believe that dog is the one you two are calling Arrow. That is if I'm wrong," said the woman holding the bird. She appeared elven.

Arrow eyed the large bird warily, but wagged his tail in greeting.

"Pleased to meet you, Lady Cree. What brings you to the Green Dragon?" asked Eleniel, nodding graciously as the woman handed her a mug of ale. "This is indeed my dog, Arrow. May I introduce Lady Elkamia?" She gestured to the elven woman tending the dog's wounds.

"Stay out of trouble out here, okay?" Eleniel turned again to see Isaac scratching the dog's nose as he left the stable.

"We'll try," said Eleniel, "But we cannot promise you anything." She looked down at him. "Ugh, sorry about your shirt." It was spackled with little red dots from carrying the injured dog. He shrugged and smiled before heading back inside. The sounds of music drifted through the door as he opened it.

The white bird cawed noisily, bringing Eleniel's attention back to the woman behind her.

"Pleased to meet you, too, Avalon," she said with a laugh.

[Witch_Queen]

Aduthondiel
Adu noticed that Cree was there. She was about to tell Cree about Hama going back to Rohan but Avalon shrieked to get her attention. Adu laughed and ran her hand down the crow's neck. Adu still didn't know why she persisted in drinking more ale when it seemed she had already had to much to start out with. She noticed that Issac was looking at her funny. What is his problem? You would think he had never seen an elf before in his life. He doesn't look at Cree in the same manner. So why me?

Adu looked at him, "Can I help you with something?" She thought her words was going to frighten the man. Adu wasn't used to being looked at in any way than as a warrior from Rohan. She knew it was not natural to see "a drunken elf" but the celebration called for a better mood.

[Feared Half-Elf]

Elkamia knelt over the dog, checking the wound with long, gentle fingers weatherworn by years in the field, years of archery and swordfights. It was quite clean, as wounds went, cleaner than one from an orc-sword, at least.

She rooted through her saddlebags, and found a phial of clear, faintly purple liquid. She sprinkled a little on the wound. It looked fairly clean, but the liquid would make sure it stayed that way. It would have stung like nothing else, had Arrow not been under the influence of the numbing liquid. For that she was glad, as she collected together some other herbs from her bag, and a large bottle of water, from the special pool deep in the depths of Eryn Lasgalen. Healing water, she'd learnt a lot from the forest's healers.

A long strip of cloth emerged from her bag next, and she bandaged her gloopy mixture of herbs to the wound. Again, it would have stung if not for the numbing liquid. Yet again she thanked Isaac silently for that as she worked. Arrow seemed fine in himself, once she was finished she checked his eyes to make sure his head hadn't been affected.

Satisfied that she couldn't do too much more for him at the moment, she sat back on her heels. She laid a hand on the dog's head, and spoke softly in Elvish, a poem she once learnt. It soothed Arrow, and slowly his eyes drooped and he fell asleep. Elkamia looked up at Eleniel, surprised to see another elven woman with what looked like a crow standing beside her. She shook her head at her own folly and smiled, when she focussed on something properly, everything faded out of her mind entirely. She stood up and adressed Eleniel first.

"He'll sleep for a while, but I think he'll be fine. He'll be warm enough out here, I'm sure, with the horses around in here." Her attention slided to the elf with the crow. "My apologies if you or Eleniel here adressed me and I ignored you, I do not mean to be rude. I have a habit of concentrating on one thing when it requires all of my attention, then I fail to notice anything of what is happening around me. It has put me in danger occaisionally. May I enquire as to your name? You seem familiar somehow, though I cannot place it. Are you from Eryn Lasgalen?" She paused for a moment to let her skirt back down, from where it was tied by her leg.

[Fordim Hedgethistle]

The newcomer mumbled something inaudible in response to Snaveling’s uncharacteristically friendly tone, and he quickly looked away. Feeling the snub, Snaveling turned his attention back to Toby and addressed the elder hobbit’s question, too long unanswered.

“You are right, my friend, we should attempt to regain our happy mood. But I am a dour and uncompanionable sort, and those who take up with me must endure it.” Toby laughed with delight and took another swallow of his ale. His face was thoroughly flushed now and his eyes had begun to wander in slightly different directions. As drunk as the little fellow was it was nothing compared to the state the larger Man would be in had he been matching Tobias drink for drink. Not for the first time, Snaveling marvelled at these Halfling folk and castigated himself inwardly for so badly misjudging them when he first arrived at the Inn.

He turned to Galadel next and bowed his head slightly. “I am glad you have rejoined us My Lady.” Silently he sent her thanks for her aid earlier in the evening. Without her support, he would never have found the courage to confess to Aman, and all the good that had come of that would never have been. Even as he formulated the thought, he felt her silent acknowledgement. But at the same time, he could feel her renewed curiosity about him pushing at the edge of his consciousness. Once more, he closed off that part of himself which he had forever kept hidden, but this time he did so as one would close a door behind a departing friend, and not violently as he had before. Galadel smiled and he knew her mind: Very well, Man of the South, keep your secrets. For now.

Indeed, it was those secrets that now consumed Snaveling. He could tell from the reaction of Roa and Galadel that his amulet and the tale he told of it had put him into an entirely new light with them – a potentially dangerous new light, although who was a danger to whom was unclear to him. In his youth he had heard many tales of his ancestor, the exiled heir to the prince, and of the enchanted island in the West where Men did not die, and over whom there ruled a King so powerful that he had vanquished and humbled the Nameless One himself. Snaveling had always put aside such tales as trifles meant to calm children before bed, or to mislead the foolish. But now…he began to wonder if there could be any truth to the tales. And if so, how could he profit from them…?

Toby clapped Snaveling on the back and suggested another drink. Snaveling smiled and remarked, “I have already had more than enough drink for one evening” and his face flushed with immediate shame at the thought of what he done that night while under the influence of the alcohol, “so I shall forgo any more. However, a nice cup of tea and some of that food would be more than welcome right now.” He rose with Tobias to fetch something, but at a thought, he turned to Roa and Galadel and asked, as courteously as he could, if they wanted anything from the table.

[Archsage Isaac]

"Can I help you with something?" Aduthondiel asked Isaac. Isaac scanned her over and then looked into her eyes and smiled. He thought for several moments about what to say, and finally just decided to introduce himself.

"Hello, I am called Isaac. A pleasure to meet you, Aduthondiel." Isaac said, offering his hand and a chair for each Adu and Cree. "I merely thought it strange that you were dancing alone, nothing more." As he said this, he thought about ordering up some more drinks, as he had already finished the one that Cree had gotten for him. "And I never did thank you, Cree, for getting me that drink. So, thank you." he added as he awaited the two to either sit or continue the conversation while standing.

[Witch_Queen]

Cree
"Elkamia, perhaps you might remember my father a little better. Eruniel, he was called before his dreadful death. Thats why I left Eryn Lasgalen, I blamed myself for his death. Avalon, I'm not sure where she came from but she has been my good friend since I arrived here." Cree knew that it wasn't her fault but still she blamed herself for not doing anything about it. She remembered when she was told that everyone missed her back home and that she should go back. Perhaps it was better if she went back to put everything to a final rest.

Avalon released her hold on Cree's shoulder and flew to the seat beside Isaac. "She likes you, Isaac. Thats something it takes her a while to do. Avalon isn't the type to make friends easily." Cree noticed that Adu had taken a seat and was now sipping on a mug of ale. Cree laughed at how Adu was acting. It seemed to Cree that perhaps Adu had had one to many mugs of ale. For Adu was setting there tapping her foot on the wooden floor of the inn. Cree noticed that the inn looked alot better now since it was finished.

The music began to get slower and slower. The room was getting blurry. Cree knew what was happening to her. Even though she had thought it was over for a long time, Cree needed to face that fact that until her questions were answered the episodes would continue to occur. Adu's face was distorted and it began to frighten Cree. Avalon shrieked and Cree could barely hear that. She wished Grimm was there to catch her when she fell but knew that was only a wish.

[Galadel Vinorel]

"Would either of you care for something to drink?" said Snaveling courteously, turning quickly in mid-stride.

Galadel stretched her sore limbs, and place her hands behind her head. Then she leaned back a little, chair and all, and looked over, only with her eyes, at Snaveling.

"I was wondering when you would remember your manners, Snaveling," said the elf crossly, but then she winked at him and grinned, "Of course I'd like something, if you too wouldn't mind," but she did not wait for either of them to answer, and continued to speak, "I'd like some tea, please. And maybe something to eat as well. I'm not exactely sure what there is to eat, but I do know that the food here is always good, so, really anything will do."

Glancing over at the woman sitting next to her, Galadel smiled. "What would you like, Roa?" said the maiden, "I'm sure that these two very, polite gentlemen wouldn't mind getting you something to drink or eat as well." Galadel grinned, and winked at the ranger, and then turned to smile at Tobias and Snaveling, who were standing by the table, grinning, as she waited for Roa to respond.

[Maeggaladiel]

Eleniel patted the dog's head as Elkamia dressed his wounds with the contents of several vials. Eleniel was not a healer: that was not one of the gifts that her mother passed to her. She had no idea what the liquids were supposed to do to Arrow, but she trusted Elkamia.

"He'll sleep for a while, but I think he'll be fine. He'll be warm enough out here, I'm sure, with the horses around in here," the elf said as she finished. Arrow's eyes closed and he began to snore loudly almost immediately. Eleniel's mouth curved into a smile.

"Thank you very much," she said. "I wish there was something I could do to repay you for your help." She began to mentally scan the contents of her own pack, resting on a chair back in the Inn. She was a merchant collecting goods, for crying out loud. There had to be something in there that would serve as repayment.

Beside her, Arrow's legs began to make running motions as he chased some creature through a hazy dream. Eleniel laughed.

"So, what brings you to the Green Dragon, Lady?" she asked, turning back to Elkamia with a grin.

[Roa_Aoife]

Roa chuckled at Galadel's generous offer. Thinking for a moment, and eyeing Toby catiously she made up her mind. "I think tea sounds like a good idea. And I believe there are some pastries available. I must confess to having a rather large sweet tooth," she said with a returning wink in her friend's direction.

Snaveling and Toby nodded and stood up and walked off in search of provisions. The newest member of their table excused himself as well. Roa followed him with her eyes as he crossed the room, taking note that his position provided an excellent veiw of their own table.

Brushin git aside, she turned to her confidant. "Well, my friend, we seem to be in a bit of a difficult situation. He seems to have no idea what that amulet means."

"Yes," said the elf-maid, "And it is perfectly fine for it to remain that way. For now we should do nothing but wait. It is really all we can do." Roa nodded. Silently she wondered what would become of her promise to Snaveling to bring him to her King. Surely she could not do so now, yet she had given her word. Sensing her distress, Galadel rested her hand on her arm and said, "Do not fear. I sense that in the end, all will be righted. For now enjoy yourself." Roa calmed under the elf's influence. Letting her mind rest, she smiled brightly as Snaveling and Toby returned with the promised items, and she was able to fully enjoy the sweets provided.

[Archsage Isaac]

Isaac looked at the white bird that had landed beside him. It was as white as the snow in his first memories. "She likes you, Isaac. Thats something it takes her a while to do. Avalon isn't the type to make friends easily." Cree had told him before laughing at Adu's behavior.

What's that all about? Isaac thought to himself. He was getting a strange feeling. He shook it off though, that is until Cree began to look ill. "Cree, are you ok?" Isaac asked her. She looked around the room slowly. Avalon began to shreak and Isaac's feeling returned. Cree was starting to fall. Isaac lunged forward and barely caught here just before she hit the floor. "Unconscious..." he muttered, before turning to Adu. "What's wrong with her?" he asked, obviously concerned.

[Witch_Queen]

Aduthondiel
She noticed that Cree began to fall but Isaac barely caught her. "What's wrong with her?" She heard Isaac say. It seemed to her that Cree had one of her episodes again. "Isaac, its nothing unusual. Cree has these episodes, sometimes they are worse than this one." She told him about the time Cree's side began to bleed from a cut that was obviously there but wasn't sure how she got it. "Theres nothing we can do right now. It will have to wear off."

Though Adu didn't know Cree very well, Cree reminded her so much of her younger self. Cree and Avalon shared a bond like Count and herself. Adu took a sip of her ale and looked over at where Cree was. The child is still very young yet for some reason these episodes come and go at their own will. There has got to be something I can to help her. There just has to be. Adu drifted off into space. It seemed like she was back at home in Rohan. Dorian was there beside her and for some reason she saw Isaac. She thought she had noticed Isaac from some where else before.

She quickly snapped back to reality. "Isaac, where did you come from? You just seem so familar. Have you ever been to Rohan before?" She noticed how his features hadn't changed since the last time she saw him. She wondered why she hadn't seen it before. Cree began to move, and Adu focused her attention to the elf. Cree took a drink of ale and it was as if she went back into a sleep. What is going on with her? Adu turned back to Isaac who now seemed stunned. "Isaac are you ok?" He nodded his head. "Now will you answer my questions." She placed her hand on Avalon's head and began to drink the rest of her ale.

She began to think back to when she was back in Rohan and had all her friends there with her. Everything was peaceful back then. Crystal was still a little girl and had alot to learn. Yet now everything was different. Crystal's own father had basically turned against her. She was left to fend for herself. The painful past was enough to make Adu want to throw up and forget about it. Yet the only good thing about Rohan was that Hama was on his way there. "General Hama." The words were like air coming out of Adu's mouth. "Move swiftly Hama for you never now when the enemy is following." She snapped back to reality and apologized to Isaac for not paying him any attention.

[Archsage Isaac]

"Isaac, where did you come from? You just seem so familar. Have you ever been to Rohan before?" Adu asked him. He had forgotten to tell her his story. Before answering he made sure that Cree was ok. She seemed to be. He turned his attention to Adu and her questions.

"Firstly, I will answer any questions you have about me, anything at all. As my first answer, I don't know. I don't remember anything before a few years ago. Not one thing. Though I do know what you mean, you look familiar to me as well. I wish I knew why though." he said, slowly taking a drink of his ale. "Allow me to question you, Adu. What do you mean that I look familiar?" As he said this, he began to try and think of any possible way that he and Adu could know each other, but could think of nothing.

[piosenniel]

This incarnation of The Green Dragon, Part 10, is now closed to posting.

We have reached the limit for pages in the Inn. You may continue posting now in The Green Dragon Inn - Part 11 (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/showthread.php?p=321835#post321835).

~*~ Pio