The Green Dragon [Archive] - Page 3 - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

piosenniel

12-31-2002, 03:28 AM

'Too late for stitches.'commented the Elf calmly as she examined the Man's left arm. 'Elanor! Bring me the small keg of Dwarven spirits, a pitcher of fresh water, and that dark leather satchel there under the bar.' The Hobbit sprang into action, and soon the items were at hand.

Pio had called on several of the patrons to position Barodir more squarely in the center of the table. Rie and Eruantalon pulled on the fellows shoulders, looping their arms beneath his armpits and heaving him slowly up and over on the surface, so that his head touched the edge of the table at one end.

Biffo, his cousin Belle and Elanor shoved on the heavy man's legs until they too were squarely aligned with the edges of the table.

Pio ripped open the man's shirt sleeve from wrist to shoulder, exposing a gash about the depth of her little finger, running from his mid forearm to a point just below his shoulder. 'Hold him down.' she said to her assistants and five bodies flung themselves over the supine figure.

She sluiced a little water from the pitcher over the wound, cleansing out the debris. 'Hold tight now.' she cautioned the others, as she poured a quantity of fiery Dwarven spirits along the length of the wound to prevent infection. The man writhed in agony, but Pio was unrelenting in her care.

Taking a small pot of aloe unguent from the satchel, she applied it liberally to the wound then packed the gash with sphagnum moss and wrapped clean linen strips about it.

By the time she had finished, he had come fully awake, the pain from the wound and her ministrations making him moan. 'Here,' she said, propping his head up with her hand,'drink this.' she trickled a small short stream of honey colored liquid between his lips.

'What's that?' asked Elanor, her eyes wide at all that had gone on.

'Elixir of poppy.' said Pio, smiling, as she motioned for Rie and Eruantalon to help her stand the man. 'it will take the pain from him for a while, and give him pleasant dreams.' Now help me get him up to a bed. We'll tuck him in, and I'll check on him later.'

It was nearing midnight when she came, carrying a candle, to see him. His face was flushed and his breathing deep and regular. Behind his closed lids moved dreams and wonders. She checked his arm - the dressing was dry, no further bleeding. She leaned close regarding him, and whispered in his ear.

'Next time use a recurved bow and a hunting arrow. Stay out of reach of the blade - you'll be safer.'

Dark Shadow

12-31-2002, 06:22 AM

The Elf sat, unmoved by all that went on around him. Harenthiel had retired to her room at his suggestion, and now Barodir had staggered back to the inn, wounded and bleeding, and suddenly the inn was in an uproar. He did not stir to aid Pio or the others who clustered around the fallen guard, but sat and observed from the corner. He felt no sympathy for the man who had had him at blade-point only a short time ago, but said quietly, speaking only to himself and those who troubled to hear him,

“He will not die.”

Erdaminéon knew that Pio would be able to care for a wound of such. It looked to be quite deep, but from his experience it would take only a short time to clean and dress it. He was correct, and soon Barodir was escorted to a room.

It was only then, with a certain air of amusement he noticed the many cups, tankards and trays that littered the table where he sat, evidence of the many occupants who had shared his company briefly before leaving on their various paths of business. He looked about the inn. The fire was burning low, and many of the common room’s occupants were going to rooms they had rented. What a night, he thought to himself. Many strangers, a guard, false accusations, a thief and an injury. Well, peace is hard to come by, and is obviously fading fast if one can no longer find it in a small inn in the Shire. He settled back to watch the last embers of the fire burning peacefully in the grate.

Eruantalon

12-31-2002, 10:30 AM

While the orthers where busy getting the stranger to his bed.The main room was almost empty he made his way to the stranger.

"Hello there" he said as he sat down the many cups and things on his table but no one there.

He than took out two large old books from his satchel.One said Rivendale the top in gold the book was a deep and red.The orther said Lothlorien in silver pale blue was the color of this book.They where ancient books on the history and songs of the two Elf havens.

He began to read the strangers payed no mind to him but noticed the titels of the books.Stil the strangers face was unmoved and almost as stone.

"Strange now is't it one could not get any rest here.My journys took me to the blue mountains I was there this morning gathering my pipe weed.I set out at dawn and arrived here at sundown" hsaid as he yawned and read his marked place intensly.

"Ah now here I am so late it is for me.Now how is it some one of your kind should be so quit.I have never met any elf quite like you before"while he said this he turned the page.

He lit a pipe and siped his wine and

Orual

12-31-2002, 02:10 PM

Once Barodir was settled, Rie slipped back to her seat by the fire, shivering. Was this the way it was to be, now that she was on her own, away from her father's safe house? She had washed her hands until they almost bled, trying to get rid of Barodir's blood. Pio had said he would be fine, but it had still terrified Rie to see a man so injured. She stumbled off of her chair and took a seat on the floor, huddled up in her cloak. The fire was warm, but it didn't ward off the chill that had fallen over Rie.

Finally she got up and walked up to Pio, paying for a room with not much more than a murmured thank-you, and went to bed. She needed some time to herself.

"I won't stay here for the night, I'll warrant," she said bitterly. "I can't keep my nose out of trouble, it appears. Oh, why did I ever leave home?" She cried for a while in her room, and hoped that the sobs didn't carry. She may not be up to the challenges that she had set before herself, but she certainly didn't want news of her weakness to get back to her father.

piosenniel

12-31-2002, 04:05 PM

Pio saw the masked horror reflected in Rie's eyes. She said nothing to the young woman, but smiled gently at her as she gave her directions to her room. 'Shadow creeps even into the bravest of hearts,' she murmured to herself. 'though it will not hold her in thrall long, I think.'

Later that night, as she stopped to check on the wounded Man, she listened in at Rie's door, hearing her pace restlessly. Pio went down to the darkened kitchen and mixed a posset for the young woman - honey and milk and spiced wine, heated gently.

She carried it upstairs and knocked on Rie's door. 'Who is it?' came the muffled challenge through the door. 'It is Pio. I've come with something to help you sleep.'

Rie opened the door, inviting the Elf in. She took the proffered drink, breathing in the sweet, heavy vapors that enticed her nose. 'My mother made that sometimes for me, when I was restless and feared the dreams that would come if I shut my eyes.'

She watched as the young woman sipped at the drink. The room was close, the air stale. Pio stepped to the small window that faced on the west and threw it open, motioning for rie to stand near her.

'Tomorrow is the first day of the new year. A time for the possibilities of new beginnings.' She pointed to a bright star which hinge above the rim of the world and threw its brilliance into the dark sky. 'Look! Bright Eärendil stands there in the West.' Words of old came from her, taking flight against the shadows in the room.

'Hail Eärendil, of mariners most renowned, the looked for that comes at unawares, the longed for that comes beyond hope! Hail Eärendil, bearer of light before the Sun and Moon! Splendour of the Children of Earth, star in the darkness, jewel in the sunset, radiant in the morning!'

[ December 31, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Merri

12-31-2002, 04:25 PM

Elanor stood in the shadows of the inn, flabbergasted. She had long ago stopped being useful, so nobody took any notice of her, something for which she was very grateful.

Maybe I should have stayed home with my books, she mused, watching as Miss Pio dealt with the wounded man. One thing was for sure, however, books were a lot less interesting than live beings, though perhaps a lot easier to deal with.

She stifled a yawn and looked around for Miss Pio. Suddenly, the innkeeper seemed to be nowhere in sight.

"You'd best get off to bed," Tom approached her with his good-natured smile. "You look awful tired, Miss Elanor."

"Oh, I'm not tired, re-really," She stifled another yawn. "And anyway, I'm supposed to help Miss Pio, and there are still lots of guests that- (yawn) seem to be needing assistance-" She decided that would never get used to working at an inn, and hoped that this temporary employment would not hinder her in getting her to her sick cousin, Daisy.

She looked around the inn. There were at least three people left, someone reading to the wounded stranger as he was being carried up to the room, a hobbit drinking by the bar, and an elf who seemed to be half asleep.

As the one reading seemed more than slightly eccentric and therefore intimidating to Elanor, and she had always been frightened of elves, she approached the drinking hobbit first, hoping that he wouldn't be too drunk to notice her.

"Please, sir, is there anything you would be needing? It's late now- perhaps you would like a room for the night? Everyone knows it isn't mighty comfortable to spend the night at the inn's bar." She smiled her lopsided little smile, and nervously fiddled with her apron as she waited for his response.

[ December 31, 2002: Message edited by: Merri ]

Nurumaiel

12-31-2002, 04:57 PM

Nurumaiel had been watching all that went on with shock, but when she saw Rie creeping away she felt compelled to follow her. Making an excuse to Lindelot, she slipped away silently and followed Rie and Pio, who was leading her to her room.

When they reached the room Nurumaiel stood in a dark corner so she would not be seen. When Pio left, Nuru walked silently up to the door and listened to what was going on inside. She heard Rie sobbing. Lifting her hand, Nuru almost knocked on the door, but thought better of it. Perhaps she would get to speak with Rie later.

Walking slowly back to the common room, Nuru pondered all that had happened that night, and wondered if there would ever be a day in her life where danger and sorrow did not come.

Sighing and shaking the thought away, Nuru went over to Pio and smiled at her, asking, "How is the injured man doing?"

Eruantalon

12-31-2002, 05:55 PM

HE looked up still the stranger said nothing.He was wondering what he might have going on in his head at this time.

"The night before I left for this inn I had a strange dream.Somewhere in a place where many elfs where gatered and the sound of whater was everywhere the was much turmoil.Strangely I could be of service but not there."he said quitley now amost in a wisper.

"You see I am a seer dreams and visions come to me though most times I don't really know what to do with them.That is the main problem with men if they can see things more deeply they still don't quit know what to do with them.So you see now as I sat here I noticed you said did and asked of not much of anything to anyone lest they should see you too openly." he said now yawning.

"But still my dreams plague me but I know not what they mean or what to do about them.My song was ment to draw out any Elves that would help me see clear what is in the mist.But none of them had heard anything like it so I knew they where not the ones to talk to.But now as I was sitting here I realized you had no reaction what so ever to my song even though you are of the first born."he said now looking around at the woman chatting with the hobbit he was talking to earlyer.

"Vary plain it seems now you have heard music like this befor and it did not move you to give away your position."now leaning over to the man.

"So a man I thought you where untill I came down to the bar and saw right away I realized who you where now"Now he spoke in a hush since the inn was in almost total silence.

"I am Eruantalon a seer,warrior,and minstrel.I have vistited and helped the people of Lothlorien, Rivendell,the people of Mirkwood and any orther Elves that had needed of me"as he said this he took out his great sword.

"Do you recognize this or my bow"he held it up as well.

"I am always happy to help those in need and the Elves I hold in great regard they are my friends and I would lay upon any sword to protect there havens or there beautifull works"the expression on his face was now varry seruious and grave.

"For it was true the first born of Eru would create his most beautifull work and I have a deep love of arda and so all the works of the fairest of the earth.For only they undestand why my hart is filled with such great joy for arda since they too know its beauty"he said this with a deep sense of honor in his voice.

Now the stranger looked at him and saw and knew who he was.Would he want him on the deed at hand.

cheeto

12-31-2002, 08:22 PM

Belle sat by the fire,drying her hands.She had a wet washcloth by her,and had been scrubbing her hands until they were raw.She moved her fingers and rubbed her hands together.They still didn't feel clean.
She had never seen so much blood on anyone before,and had been worried about someone coming in and stabbing others,but whoever it was seemed to have left.
"Maybe I shouldn't go home this late at night"she thought,then looked towards the bar."How much is it for a room?Are there any empty ones?".

Rai

12-31-2002, 09:02 PM

'Yes, here you are, thank you,' Jatyn said, pulling a silver penny out of her pack. 'Much obliged, madam.' She shook her head, amused by the action.
'I'm sure I can find something to ease that poor man's discomfort, if you should so desire it,' she offered.

-Jatyn Coolheart-

Eruantalon

12-31-2002, 10:11 PM

"Hmmm thats strange I can't find a listing of anyone who matches you in these books"he now said putting them away.

"Maby they are too old or maby you are not from Rivendell or Lothlorien.But where else would you have hear such songs"his face now seemed in deep thought.

"Well if you have noting to say and my dreams are false or you are simple not the person I though maby I should think harder before speaking.But my insights are not always so badly aimed."he now seemed troubeled by his dreams and the unknowing vale of silence before him.

Dark Shadow

01-01-2003, 07:29 AM

Finally, the Elf looked up. The man had been speaking for long, and he had listened carefully to all that he had been told. A seer he thought. Someone who had dreams and visions, and had seen many Elves. Someone who spoke of a great deed, and of him, one of the first-born. Well, the man was correct in assuming that he was not of Lorien or Rivendell. He was not of anywhere. It had been decades since he had thought of anywhere but the wilderness as his home. The man was watching him, awaiting a reply.

“I will not be listed in your books.” He said after long thought. “And there will be no memory of me in any song. I am an Elf long forgotten, and I wish for it to remain that way.”

He had looked with interest at the books, and now began to wonder. He carries an elven blade, and a bow, and he claims to have helped the Elves. Now he wishes to help me with this great deed he speaks of.
“I do not doubt your dream friend,” said the Elf slowly, “But I do not know of this deed of which you speak. However, I will do all I can to help you push aside the mists of your dream and see what it predicts.”
He began to think of the dream, which had been spoken of. A place where many Elves were gathered. Water all around, and great turmoil.

“I am not one to explain dreams, but I will try for you. Might I ask if there were any further details of this dream, which perhaps you left out?”

His fair face was filled with concentration as he tried to work out the meaning of this strange dream. The darkness returned to his face, clawing at his mind. He sighed, and looked at the seer.

“And perhaps you could explain why exactly you chose me to help uncover your meaning.”

With this he sat, awaiting the answers that he knew would drag his heart down further than anything he had met so far.

[ January 01, 2003: Message edited by: Dark Shadow ]

Orual

01-01-2003, 10:32 AM

Rie gazed out at the night sky, at the star Eärendil that Pio was pointing out. When first she looked at it, it seemed cold and far away, like everything else in her life--her family, her home, her future. She didn't notice the rush of fresh air, or even the little chill in the air through her gloom. But then Pio began to speak.

"Hail Eärendil, of mariners most renowned..."

Rie stood transfixed as Pio spoke these words that she had heard so long ago, so many times, and then looked at the star again. Stories that her mother had told her came back in a rush, and suddenly the star looked less like a distant, cruel false hope and more like the light of a lantern in a friendly home, telling her that it friends and warmth are not far away, if only she would keep going for a little while longer. Once more tears stung her eyes, but it was no longer from terror. She smiled gratefully at Pio, and, finding words insufficient, embraced her.

[ January 01, 2003: Message edited by: Orual ]

Eruantalon

01-01-2003, 01:15 PM

"Since I have know many of the Elves and helped them I have a bit of an unerstanding of them.They take joy and love many thing of Arda but as time wears on they become weary and cautious knowing the pains and probles that they see in there long lives.You I thought were one on a deed closely guarded and serect for that was the order you where given.But you have had such a long life and have seen the fairer things rought in Middel Earth."said now removing the books back from his satchel and handing them to the stranger.

"In the dream there was turmoil and a darkness was pushing itself towrds the light.The Elves where trying to hold it back but it came apon them in a strange way they had not seen befor.So it then took a precious thing from them that caused anger.There where many sent out as a net apon a field to try and retrive what was taken.The whole time I heard the sound of water.The grave and sorrowfull feeling of the dream upset me.To know some one had taken what was not theres and try to mar the fair place the Elves have made for themselfs."the stranger now listened and heard all that he had to say of his dream.

Now they both sat in silence and tryed to unstand what was happening.But none said a word for a short time.

"I see you now look at my sword and bow.The sword was lent to my by the lord and lady of Lothlorien.It was crafted by the Noldar before the exile.But my bow was lent to me by Elrond it is made of dragons horn.It was used long ago by a bowman of Gondolin."he said passing them to him.

"I am on middlel to help all those that need me or want my aid.Ents,Elves,Dwarfs,Men,Hobbits these are all my friends.I am to aid all in middel earth.This is why I approach you.You seemed in need of help of whatever kind,and this is my job while I am still abel.For the strangest gift was given to Men to live and die"he said while the stranger inspected his books and weapons.

Now him and the stranger where getting some where trying to understand the dreams and visions better.But he hoped he could find out soon.He knew ther wasn't much time but this Elf was kind enough to hlep so he felt good in his company.

Nurumaiel

01-01-2003, 01:42 PM

Nurumaiel excused herself once again from Lindelot and crept up the stairs to Rie's room. She heard Pio's voice from inside, so she stood in a dark corner.

When Pio left the room, Nurumaiel walked over to the door. Hesitating for only a brief moment, she raised her hand and knocked softly on the door, then stepped back and waited for Rie to answer.

[ January 01, 2003: Message edited by: Nurumaiel ]

cheeto

01-01-2003, 02:10 PM

Belle thanked the stranger for the money before going behind the bar and taking a key hanging off the wall.She took Pio's purse out from under the bar and dropped the silver penny in before tucking it back in it's place.

She walked downstairs and stared at the row of doors."Room 15"she said,reading off the key,then looked at the numbers on the doors."25..26..27..maybe it's an upstairs room"she walked back up to the main room,then went upstairs."1..2....13..14..15,there it is"she opened the door and walked in."This is a big room for one person,maybe it's one of the big people rooms-oh look at the bed!".

She ran towards the bed,then stopped and turned to close the door."WEEE!"she yelled,running towards the bed,"I should stay here everynight!no one at home will believe this!"she jumped on the bed,fluffed the pillows,then started rolling. "Esmerelda, Tolman, Mimi, Hildi, Hendi, Fred, Salvia, Lobelia, they could all fit here!

Prissy and Rosie couldn't kick me on this!" She stood up and grabbed one of the pillows. "Maybe Pio will let me have this,next time Prissy kicks me off the bed HA!"

She swung the pillow in the air before throwing it back in place.She crawled towards the middle of the bed and pulled the covers over her head.Being too riled up to sleep,she tossed and turned,kicked the covers off,then started jumping on the bed."WEEEHEEE!"

[ January 01, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Helkahothion

01-01-2003, 02:42 PM

Anuion had been sitting in the corner and was listening to the story's all around him. He taught is was all useless for getting into an adventure.

"Still no adventure. Where are those adventurer's when you need them. I wish that there was a person that needed my aid." He kept on muttering and ate his meal in peace.

"None of those innvisitors are even willing for a nice chat. Boring Inn this is." He kept going on.
________
Lexus Sc (http://www.toyota-wiki.com/wiki/Lexus_SC)

piosenniel

01-01-2003, 02:51 PM

Pio stepped back from the embrace, holding Rie at arms' length. She smiled gently at her, and drew the young woman to her side, her arm about her shoulders. She pointed once again to the star on the horizon.

'I played with him when I was a child in Beleriand, in Ondolindë. He was my dear companion.' Pio leaned on the window's sill, her voice low. 'There was a fountain in the courtyard of the house there. Tuor made little ships for us, swan ships, and we used to sail them in the waters of the fountain pool. And sometimes, Idril would play with us - great battles we had! Always Light would prevail against Shadow.'

The Elf sighed. 'Those were sweeter, happier times. Now long gone.' She turned toward Rie, who gazed still at the evening star, and watched as the night stars' light played softly over the young woman's features.

'It's late.' she said, 'And I have a few things to finish before I take some rest. You should rest now, too.' She placed the still warm drink into Rie's hands. 'Drink this up, and dream sweet dreams. This new day beckons us already.'

Pio moved through the door, closing it behind her gently . . .

Merri

01-01-2003, 04:43 PM

Elanor had all but given up on the old hobbit answering, deciding that he was probably too drunk to notice her. Anyhow, the other guest(an elf?)'s mutterings concerned her more at the moment.

She stomped over to his table and put her hobbit fists on her hips and glared at him with all the ferocity she could muster.

"Boring?" She questioned. "Boring? Well, you've obviously just come, sir, because you missed Miss Pio, the innkeeper, chase out a man, and him comin' back with his arm all bloodied- boring, you say? Well, off with you, then! Go and find a more exciting inn!"

Elanor didn't realize how ridiculous she looked, tiny hobbit that she was, yelling at a guest, an elf no less. Her apron was half-untied, her curly brown hair was coming undone from its previously tidy braid. There never was a sight more amusing to look upon than an indignant hobbit, but then, it was best if you didn't get a hobbit indignant.

Orual

01-01-2003, 05:42 PM

Rie sat back on her bed after Pio left, both in peace and in faint surprise. Pio knew Eärendil? As a child? What tales she would have to tell her family, when she went home! But would any of them believe her?

"Do I believe them myself?" she asked, laughing softly as she took a sip from the drink Pio had given her. "Do I believe that I am really here in the Shire, hearing tales of old from those who were there when they happened?" She looked back out the window, suddenly wistful. "I wish that I could have met him..."

She shrugged dismissively, a little embarrassed at her fantasies, and took another drink. It was very good, warm and comforting. It reminded her of what her own mother would make, when Rie was sick. This, though, even worked on those sick at heart, for Rie felt much better, relaxed and awoken from her gloom and unburdened all at once.

Then a knock came at the door. Rie put her cup down and went to answer it. She didn't know the visitor, but she'd seen her and heard her name. "Nurumaiel, am I right?"

Coral

01-01-2003, 05:58 PM

~ Sorry for the wait in me getting back here, like it really matters...carry on! ~

Achae looked up at Deorlin with wonder, this could be her only chance to get out of the Shire and begin her true adventure. Her lips had barely begun to utter yes when a heavy cloud of doubt settled in her mind. The road ahead would be dark indeed, darker then any road she had ever walked upon. She held her downcast stare as she spoke with a heavy heart,

"I am very sorry...but I will have to decline your generous offer. I would be nothing more except a mere bother on your journey." She looked up and saw a slight glint of disappointment in Deorlin's eyes. Looking to Sadbh she spoke again,

"But...but perhaps Sadbh would join you, she knows more then me about the ways of the world and will make a splendid companion." Nodding as if to further her point, Achae paused to wait for Sadbh's answer.

theWhiteLady

01-01-2003, 06:26 PM

Outside the inn, the sound of hooves clattered up the road, cutting through the still night. The stars were bright overhead and the air cool as a small, brown horse walked wearily up to the stone inn. The Green Dragon the rider read on the sign. She was dressed all in white, but her garments were stained and her shoulders slumped; it was obvious she had been traveling for some time.

"This looks like a suitable place to rest for awhile, my sweet Nell. Thank you for bearing me so patiently this far." The lady in white dismounted and patted her steed fondly on the neck.

After leading her horse to the stables, she returned to the door of the inn and paused before entering. Tired as she was, there was something hesitant in her manner. Perhaps timidness kept her back, or fear, but she soon recovered and bravely pushed the door open... just in time to see a small brown-haired hobbit yelling at an elf seated nearby. She stepped back involuntarily and wondered if she had perhaps made a mistake in stopping here...

Nurumaiel

01-01-2003, 06:59 PM

"Yes, that's right," said Nurumaiel. "Nurumaiel Firithbor." She smiled at Rie, still unable to understand why she had wanted to meet the Elf so much.

"Was that Pio?" asked Nurumaiel.

"Yes, it was," said Rie, and then, feeling she had to tell someday, said, "She knew Earendil!"

Nurumaiel's mouth dropped open and she stared. "Well, I suppose she is an Elf, but so am I... ah well, no matter. I mean, that's wonderful, but I won't spend the time trying to understand how she knew Earendil. Do you mind if I come in?"

excheeto

01-01-2003, 07:26 PM

Belle was surprised how high she could jump on the big bed,it was almost scary to look downward and fall,but where else could she get away with something as fun as this?She jumped and looked down again,but this time the falling was longer,and she missed the bed.

*thunk*"OOWW!"She landed hard on her stomach,scraping her knees and bumping her head on the floor.With an ear to the floor,she heard mumbling from the main room.She listened harder,then heard a conversation that seemed to be taking place right under where she was.

"..bother on your journey.."she heard someone say"But...but perhaps Sadbh would join you, she knows more then me about the ways of the world and will make a splendid companion".People looking for companions?On a journey?Would it be on one of those 'adventures'she had been warned about?

Rolling on her side,she decided she would hear all about this,could she be a companion?...well,not likely,but it might at least be something worth gossiping about.
(btw,this is the same person,net servers bad so I had to switch everything)

[ January 02, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Orual

01-01-2003, 07:45 PM

"Oh, not at all, please come in!" Rie opened the door wide to let Nurumaiel enter. She watched the Elf with great interest, delighted to have another visitor (for Rie was unused to being alone), but also a little puzzled as to her motivations. Why had she come?

Then, suddenly, Rie flushed up to the roots of her hair, making her face comically monochrome. The room was rather a mess. Pio had kindly neglected to mention it, but as soon as Rie had come in she had dumped all of her belongings on the bed, the floor, everywhere. Not that there was that much to unload, but what there was had been spread out. Old habits die hard, thought Rie miserably as she, in a last, desperate effort, picked up a few of her articles of clothing. This was reminiscent of what her room looked like--mainly because it was useless trying to clean the room, given that she and her twin shared it.

"Please, excuse the wreck," Rie said apologetically, shoving the clothes inelegantly into one of the drawers. "This is my first time travelling, and I am afraid that once I found a place with a bed, I made myself right at home--to the obvious, disastrous consequences!" She laughed weakly, then, sufficiently satisfied with the effort she had made (the room was presentable, if not clean), she sat down on the bed and gestured for Nurumaiel to join her.

Assuming a comfortable cross-legged position, Rie settled herself and smiled brightly at the Elf. "So, what did you come to see me for?"

Merri

01-01-2003, 08:16 PM

Elanor looked up in the middle of her tirade just in time to see a lady in white enter. The lady looked tired, and her clothes were stained from the journey. At the sight of her, words died on Elanor's lips.

Oh, if only Miss Pio were here, Elanor thought, hurrying away to start scrubbing the counters. I always make such a mess of everything. And, as she scrubbed, she looked around for the much-needed inn keeper.

[ January 01, 2003: Message edited by: Merri ]

Beruthiel

01-01-2003, 08:46 PM

A grey horse trotted wearily up the road, on her back she bore a young elf. This elf had long brown hair and a fair face yet there was a sadness and emptiness in her eyes. She had ridden far and did not know where she was going. Further up the road she saw a lady clad in white going into a building with a sign, "The Green Dragon" it read, the elf decided to follow.

The elf was tired, she could hardly make it to the door, she didn't even have to strength to open it. She knocked on the door, not knowing whether anyone would hear or answer. She waited, but she could not stand, she collapsed in front of the building. The sign swinging and creaking in the breeze above her.

Nurumaiel

01-01-2003, 08:48 PM

"Well," said Nurumaiel, smiling at Rie. "I don't exactly know why I'm here to speak with you, but I've been watching you all evening, just waiting for a chance to talk with you. I suppose I just wanted to meet you, because you seemed nice enough."

Rie laughed and nodded, seeming to understand completely, and Nurumaiel felt herself warming up to the Elf.

Nurumaiel wasn't normally a shy person. In fact, she was very talkative and hardly did anything else, besides ride. But, as with most, when meeting someone new she could tend to be a bit nervous and at a loss for words.

Looking about Rie's messy room, Nurumaiel felt her smile grow wider. It looked like the two had a lot in common, and Nuru wanted to say so. "It seems we're both very untidy, Rie," she laughed. "You should see my room back home!"

They laughed together, and Nurumaiel suddenly knew she had found a friend indeed.

theWhiteLady

01-01-2003, 09:07 PM

The lady in white watched the little hobbit run to scrub counters. She had not seen very many of the little people, and could not help staring as the brown-haired hobbit scurried off. She stood, undecided and rather uncomfortable, not sure what exactly to do.

At that moment, a feeble knock on the wooden door behind her made her turn around in surprise. Not sure if anyone else had heard, the white lady opened the door to peak out and then threw it open with a gasp. A fair elf lay collapsed upon the doorstep! The lady in white stooped down and tried to drag her gently inside, not being strong enough to carry the young elf.

"Someone, help please! This young lady has collapsed!"

She looked around desperately, not sure what to do to revive the poor creature.

Orual

01-01-2003, 09:41 PM

"It seems we're both very untidy, Rie," she laughed. "You should see my room back home!"

Rie laughed aloud, trying to imagine this elegent Elf's room as messy as her own. At home, there wasn't a bedroom--and quite often wasn't a room, period--that didn't require quick reflexes and nimble feet to navigate. She and her twin were terrible housekeepers, and her remaining brothers weren't much better. (Talormë would beg to differ, but Rie had been into his room more than once.)

Giggling off the remains of her mirth, Rie began to trace patterns on the bedspread with her finger. "Well, as I said, this is my first time travelling. I do not know if you overheard my conversation with Pio, since I was none too quiet, but I just recently ran away from my father's house to try and find myself some adventure. My father is Almarien, a Ranger, and I am the only girl in a family of young men who will all grow up to be warriors." She grinned wryly. "I am sorely mistaken if I've not found myself in an adventure already! That poor man, Barodir...well, that threw me for a loop, no mistake. I'd never seen such an injury." Rie shivered, then looked Nurumaiel in the eyes. "I am as young as I look, and more naive. But I think that here at the Inn, I shall find a place to come into my own. No doubt about it." She laughed again, and began to fiddle with her scarlet hair.

"It's a nice place, this," she said, half to herself. "Good people. Some strange people, but the Shire-folk are honest and kind. Much like the people that I know from my own country. Strange that such a haven for adventurers would lie in such a peaceful country!" Rie smiled. "But, strange things are all we have, often, in these times. But tell me, Nurumaiel, what brings you to the Shire?"

Nurumaiel

01-01-2003, 10:02 PM

"Partly to get away," said Nurumaiel, looking out the window. "You see, back home, in Rivendell, there's this elf called Girithtil. She's nasty, if you can imagine a nasty elf. She seems to hate me, though I don't know why. Every chance she gets, she'll make fun of me and taunt me. Sometimes she's cruel to my horse, Menethon. I leave Rivendell every so often just to get away and find some peace.

"I also come here because I made friends with two of the hobbits: Robin Brandybuck and Dinodas Green. In fact, I think they're here at the inn tonight. Robin is a sweet girl, very fun-loving, and always ready for an adventure. Dinodas is about the same way, only he has a special way with animals. They are forever teasing each other, and teasing myself. They think I'm in love with Firramer, a mortal who is also at the inn." Nurumaiel rolled her eyes, and Rie laughed.

Suddenly Nurumaiel began just talking, telling about things that had happened in her life. She found that gazing out the window at the night sky gave her memories of when she would gaze out at the stars at Rivendell, and all the things that had happened there.

"I used to know this elf called Rinnanwen," said Nurumaiel quietly. "She was like my mother, really. You see, I don't exactly know who my parents are. I was brought to Rivendell when I was only three years in this world. Rinnanwen cared for me and raised me.

"Soon the Lady Galadriel had me go to Rivendell, and I said goodbye to Rinnanwen, though it was only for a short while. She came to Rivendell and visited many times. But soon I would say goodbye to her forever."

Nurumaiel gave a deep sigh and continued.

"You know how all -well, almost all- the elves are leaving Middle-earth for Valinor? Just two years ago in the mortals' count, Rinnanwen came to Rivendell unexpectedly. She told me she was leaving Middle-earth forever, and that we would probably never meet again."

Rie looked at her with gentle pity. "Aren't you going to Valinor soon?" she asked.

"I don't know. I don't feel that it is my time yet. But Rinnanwen said I would never go to Valinor. I don't know if I believe her."

Nurumaiel suddenly looked at Rie and blushed. "I'm sorry for rattling on so," she said. "I must have bored you immensely. Please, tell me a little more about yourself."

Orual

01-01-2003, 10:24 PM

Valinor...

Rie had heard of the Passing of the Elves, of course. Her father was a Ranger, after all, and the Rangers had always stayed close to the Elves. But to hear it from an Elf seemed to bring it a new dimension of reality. For a moment Rie bit her lip and turned her eyes down. She felt Nurumaiel's eyes on her, and looked up again with a grin to hide her embarrassment and the twinge of sorrow she felt.

"About myself?" she asked. "Well, honestly, there is not much to tell, not yet. For the moment I am only a simple girl looking for her place in her father's world. Quite frankly, I feel a little insignificant in all these great happenings. That is why I came to the Shire: to find my place in this world at this time of change. I was not content to stay at my father's house, in my mother's forge, while the whole world shifted around me!" A strange vehemence came into Rie's voice, and a fire into her green eyes. Then both died. "But I am afraid that I may not be up to the challenges that await me. How can I hope to meet them if I could hardly bear to see Barodir's injury? For surely I shall see worse if I join any adventure." She made a face as though she tasted something bitter, then her shoulders slumped. She looked at Nurumaiel, and laughed, a strange laugh for the circumstances, free from bitterness. "But I have heard that that is the way of all adventurers at the beginning--no one is born brave. I suppose we shall see, shan't we?"

Everdawn

01-01-2003, 10:42 PM

...Yet another stranger entered The Green Dragon, this time an elaboratly cloaked Elven woman. She stood for a while a few feet from the door,
"a strange day it is when elves should journey into the shire" she closed her eyes and sat at one of the vacant tables, extracting from her bag, a quill and parchment, and hastily began to write only to stop and look up alarmed. "the smell of injury is in the air, please, someone tell me, what fray was here?"

doug*platypus

01-01-2003, 11:05 PM

The *thunk* of small hobbit fists on the table behind him shook Biffo from his thoughts. He had been thinking of the world outside the Shire's borders, a world that seemingly came to The Green Dragon much more often than to his local at Frogmorton, The Floating Log. Biffo wondered if Men and Elves were always so reckless and eager to quarrel.

At first the man's arm had not looked too serious to Biffo, and he made the mistake of thinking the womenfolk were over-reacting. But Pio the barkeep had certainly realised the extent of his wounds. Biffo had helped in what little way he could, moving the injured man so he could be aided, and holding him down while Pio tended to him.

Biffo drained his tankard, and waited patiently beside the hobbit Elanor until he could get her attention. Asking for a room for the night, he quickly moved to reclaim his hat from the stand near the door, and then followed Elanor out of the common room. Biffo was a little taken back by his first visit to The Green Dragon, but intrigued nonetheless. He retired to his room for a long think, and hopefully some peace and quiet before morning.

[ January 02, 2003: Message edited by: doug*platypus ]

Everdawn

01-01-2003, 11:17 PM

The elven woman watched Biffo walk away, and stirred, called after him for she had heard his thoughts... "men quarrell because they are mortal, elves, i can only presume quarrell because they are prevoked, when prevoked are swift and lethal, goodnight" she lowered the hood of her deep blue cloak and continued to write.

excheeto

01-02-2003, 12:25 AM

Belle had been listening through the floor for some time now.The peices of conversation were interesting at first,but something about them turned eery.

The conversation about a journey dimmed past her hearing,but something new came up.Severel elves had been entering.She had always thought elves were pretty,but something about them made her shy in thier prescence.What was Valinar?Why were they in such a hurry to go there?Why were there suddenly so many of them in the Shire?Who wore white?She sounded like another elf.Who was this lady who fainted?Was she another elf?What did that elven lady mean by telling that to Biffo!?There always seemed to be more to these elven folk than they let on,but what was it?Maybe she could talk to some in the morning,no,not the lady in white,too scary somehow.The one who fainted?maybe,but what if she was as scary as the other elves?

She stood up off the floor and climbed in the bed.She could go home in the morning,but how could she leave a mystery like this behind?

[ January 02, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

ambi

01-02-2003, 02:15 AM

Quietly, the door opened and a tall man walked in. His face was covered partially with a grey hood and his head was bent. Nobody paid the slightest attention to him as he took a seat in a corner.

This was the first visit of the young ranger, Esgalindorn son of Tieragorn in the shire. Eight days of wandering in the wild had completely worn him out and within a few moments he fell asleep. The conversations of the various folks in the inn went on unhindered by this newcomer.

Before now, he had only remained in the outskirts of the shire protecting the simple hobbits from various dangers and was little known to elves, dwarves and other rangers also. But from the sound of his snores, it was clear that nobody would be knowing more about him for a while.

[ January 02, 2003: Message edited by: ambi ]

Beruthiel

01-02-2003, 03:25 AM

Beruthiel woke up, her head spinning.
"Are you alright?" asked a maiden in white
"I think so..." she replied "Where am I? Is Baeruin here? Where is he?". Beruthiel fell into a daze, she had been travelling long and got lost along the way. She had been with out sleep for many a day and she drifted back into sleep. Her dreams were filled with memories, terrible memories of her journey and of her brother...

piosenniel

01-02-2003, 03:25 AM

"Someone, help please! This young lady has collapsed!"

Pio ran down the stairs at the sound of this distressed call. ‘What’s this now?’ she thought to herself. ‘One would think this an inn at the quay in Umbar – rough trade and patrons dropping from the consequences of misadventures.’ She shook her head in wonder. ‘It’s the Shire – things should be slow and peaceful here!’

Her eyes surveyed the newcomers as she reached the bottom of the staircase. So many Elves! ‘I hope Círdan has extra ships anchored in Mithlond for all these westward wanderers.’

A few quick strides brought her to the front entrance of the common room. The few drinkers still left at the tables had stood up to watch as a woman in travel stained garments attempted to bring a prostrate Elf over the doorstep and into the room. Pio knelt down by the young Elf’s side and gently slapped her cheeks trying to draw her back to consciousness.

‘Elanor! Bring me that candle lantern there and one of the quills from behind the bar – the old one, whose point we can’t sharpen anymore.’ Elanor rant to bring her the items, wondering al the while what she would do with them.

Pio singed the feathers of the quill in the candle flame, blowing out the flame when they caught fire. The smoky, reeking smell of burnt feathers wafted up from the quill, and she waved it beneath the young Elf’s nose. Soon a spluttering sound of disgust came from the recumbent figure, and the young Elf reached up and batted the malodorous feather away from her face.
‘Good! You’ve come back to us.’ She motioned to the woman who had called for aid, and between them, they hauled the Elf up and walked her to a chair. Elanor brought food and drink and set it before the recovering Elf.

Pio turned to the woman in the grimed white and thanked her for her help. ‘My name is Piosenniel, or Pio, if you prefer. I’m the Innkeeper here, and tonight, the nursemaid.’ She laughed, shaking off the weariness of the long day. ‘How may I serve you?’

arelendil

01-02-2003, 05:00 AM

The circle had slowly vanished, everyone had drifted off to sleep in quiet rooms. Elwen slowed to a stop and lowered the flute from her lips. It was odd to continue to dance and play when everyone else had seemingly vanished. Elwen had been swept away by the music that she had been playing, she hadn't noticed the movement of the others in the Inn. Elwen glanced around the room, the fire had burned low giving out a deep red glow.

Elwen sighed and moved from the centre of the room to a chair beside a great window. West it looked, the stars burned bright, Earendil flashing blue and silver against the black. Elwen slipped easily in to thought. Curling her feet beneath her, Elwen began to tell her people of her day. Thoughts pasting back and forth yet never could a sound be heard in the new quiet of the inn.

Elwen desired no sleep. In all the short time she had spend on Arda she had never slept. She desired it not for she knew it not! Besides, the fire in this room gave off a dim light and this chair and the window with star and moonlight would keep her happy and content for many hours through the night, It always had!

[ January 02, 2003: Message edited by: arelendil ]

Dark Shadow

01-02-2003, 05:01 AM

He studied the books for a while, and then the bow and blade. Turning it so it caught the light, he read the inscription on the hilt of the sword. Finally, after an age of inspection, he spoke but six words.

“You are very lucky my friend.”

Then he put his mind to work at the dream. Water, he thought. Light and Dark. That was what the man had said. He looked for significance, trying to find something worth reporting.

“I suppose you do not know where this Elvish gathering you speak of took place? I would suggest that maybe it was somewhere where two rivers meet, although it was but a dream and there may be no true location.”

He thought on again, drinking from the miruvor that Pio had left. This was hard for him. It had been ages since he had spoken to anyone, and now he was sat here in the firelight with a seer, trying to interpret a dream. Funny that. Anyone else could walk into an inn, and remain perfectly anonymous, and even moan about being ignored, but those who hid soon enough were discovered by the most unlikely people. Oh well. This was how it always was. He should never have entered the inn in the first place if he was unwilling to be noticed. He put all such thoughts out of his mind, and concentrated hard on the dream.

“Evil will triumph over good, that is the dark invading the light,” he explained, unsurely, “Something of great worth, something treasured will be lost, and good will then set out to recover that which was taken.”

He stopped, and looked piercingly at the man, before continuing,

“This is all I see. I am no dream translator, I do not deal in dreams and visions and that is all I can tell you. If you seek the opinion of one who would truly understand all of which you speak, I would advise you to visit Elrond in Rivendell. If all you speak of is true, and by the books and weapons you carry, I would say that you are most likely Elf-friend, he should be happy to receive you, and hear all you know.”

With this, the Elf seemed satisfied that he had done all he could to be of service. Although he wondered, if the stranger would be willing to travel the distance to Rivendell, for it was a harsh road, especially now…

arelendil

01-02-2003, 05:22 AM

Elwen slid slowly out of her thoughts, like going in reverse. Pulling her eyes away from the stars, Elwen looked around the room. Many people had just entered the Inn.

People was the wrong word, Elwen realised with delight, these were elves, fair folk that had travelled far by the looks of them. Elwen found hobbits strange having never been around them, stars and elves were all she had ever know.

At a glance Elwen could tell that something was wrong. The elves that had just entered where not merry and light footed as elves should be. They tired from many days travel. Quickly jumping up from her sit by the window Elwen ran to the fire and rebulit it. The light leaped back and the room was once more filled with dancing flames of red and gold.

Slowly Elwen walked towards the crowd of people. trying to see if she could be of any use to the people gathered about. Her delicate silver-grey elven shoes made no noise on the wooden floor boards.

"Can I help?" Elwen asked, sweeping her dark hair out of her face and the way.

[ January 02, 2003: Message edited by: arelendil ]

theWhiteLady

01-02-2003, 09:07 AM

Everything was happening so very fast! The young elf had come around enough to murmer a few words, asking for someone named Baeruin. The lady in white barely had enough time to wonder who in Middle-earth Baeruin could be when another lady rushed down a flight of stairs and over to where she lay.

Moving deftly, the lady quickly revived the elf and together they carried her over to a chair nearby.

. ‘My name is Piosenniel, or Pio, if you prefer. I’m the Innkeeper here, and tonight, the nursemaid.’ She laughed, shaking off the weariness of the long day. ‘How may I serve you?’

"Greetings and many thanks, Pio" she dropped into a small curtsy and managed a tired smile. "My name is Laurie and as you can see, I have traveled far to come to your fair inn. I am originally of Rohan, and though I have learned much from the race of the Eldar, I do not belong to their kind." At this, Laurie dropped wearily into a chair beside the one in which they had placed the elf. "All I ask is for a room to stay the night and perhaps a small cup of tea before I retire."

The fire become warmer and made her feel drowsy. Stifling a yawn, Laurie closed her eyes and opened them to see another elf standing before her. This place was full of strange creatures, she thought but she smiled because most of them had seemed to very friendly thus far. Laurie stood to greet the maiden.

"Greetings! I will be just fine after a drink and soft bed, but I do not know about this young lady here," she gestured to the seat beside her, her eyes filled with concern.

Helkahothion

01-02-2003, 11:09 AM

Anuion stopped grumbling for a while and drank his ale. He heard the Dark Shadow talking about business that interested him.

He grabbed up all his courage and walked over to his table.

"Excuse me, I overheard you and could not hel, but noicing that your business interest me. I have traveld in the wilderniss for a long time and exept for a inpolite Hobbit banging on my table I havn't had any company. Would you mind if I joined your table?" He said in one breath, and as soon as he was finished he gasped for air.
________
Hurst Performance (http://www.dodge-wiki.com/wiki/Hurst_Performance)

Eruantalon

01-02-2003, 11:58 AM

"Hello there sir have your heard what has been said at this tabel"he said whith a rye look on his face.

"So somthing of interst has been said huh now"as he said this the fair haired stranger gave him back his weapons and books.

"So do you have some new or accouts that deal with what we'v been saying"he said as he put his things away.

The man sat down now looked over to them and was obivously deep in thought.So what would he say.

Dark Shadow

01-02-2003, 01:04 PM

The table now was occupied by three, himself and two men. He watched both carefully as they continued to think, wondering what they would make of the problem. He was soon to leave the Shire, but wished to find out their business before he set out. He was lingering in the inn for longer than perhaps he would have done otherwise, but warmth had overcome him, and he was unwilling to exit into the dark where rain poured down and there were all the signs of a storm. That would be foolish. As long as he was under a roof, he was safe for the moment.

He suddenly stood up without a word and strode to the door, and stood there looking calmly out into the black night. There were no stars for the thick clouds covered the sky. Rain drops fell upon his face as he stood, watching. Then, he turned abruptly and returned to the table as if nothing had happened.

He sat back down, wiping the moisture from his face. He looked worried, but no more so than usual, and also slightly relived. The truth was, he didn't want to leave, and the rain was just another excuse. it wasn't that he hadn't ridden in the rain before, but as long as there was another option, why get wet? Besides, he could relax here, no need to fight for himself. It was about time his weapons had a rest anyway...

He continued to watch the men, waiting for one of them to speak and break the silence of thought that had fallen upon the table, just as the rain had fallen on his face. Then he thought to say something.

"Well then, are you going to introduce yourself newcomer? My friend here seems to know you, but I am afraid I do not. Maybe you would like explain yourself and your apparent lack of air." At the last comment he smiled in a way that could be thought of a superior, but was more teasing than anything.

"As the Elves of Mirkwood would say, 'You breathe so loud I could have shot you in the dark'."

[ January 02, 2003: Message edited by: Dark Shadow ]

Helkahothion

01-02-2003, 01:14 PM

"Well it would be a good thing to introduce myself at firsth. My name is Anuion. There are not many people that know me for I am a ranger in the wild."Anuion said.

It's clear that I want to help you, but for some reason you seem a bit closed. If you would tell me in how far you will allow me to help you, because if it's something I hate it's meddling in other's bussines." he continued.

"But let's not be hasty, I would like to know your name's for they ar not formiliar with me"
________
Hotels in mexico (http://mexicohoteles.org)

Eruantalon

01-02-2003, 02:03 PM

"A ranger no less,yes you can be of great service to us here"He said now looking deep into his face.

"Two nights ago a dream came to me for I am a seer.There was an Elven gathering or haven where darkness was pressing to the light.The elves fought back but it came in a strange way they did not know befor and took somthing of great worth.So many Elven warriors where cast out as a great net apon a field.While I saw this the whole time water could be heard."

"I have helped the Elves many times in need and strife.For reward they have given to me weapons of great worth.For they know being but a man my life is more easly taken.So since I fly into paril with out haste when need be they give me gifts to aid me."he said.

"Now being a ranger you have weapons but if need be simply ask for I have more than I can wield in battel.For I can not weild Ax,Bow, and Sword at once.But these weapons might help you when your in need."

"Yes what you said earlier was true Elven stranger.I am lucky to have such weapons but the edge of this sword was held to my throat once in Lothlorien by Galadreil before she knew me."he said now with a hush in his vioce.

"So I know that the Elves are in paril and need aid.For they have had no luck in the tracking of this stranger.I know this becuse in the dream so many where sent out and this is not accustom to them.The stranger has spoken of going off to Rivendell witch is where I was going when I saw this inn.For the counsil of Elrond is wise and trustfull.So now I know that this stranger is not one of the many trying to find the thief.But earlier I thought so since he was so guarded and removed from the orthers."

"So would you still be intersted in a journy to Rivendell to seek counsil.It is a hard journy and we must be quick lest we would show up too late."

"But my friend a ranger would be welcomed for all of his skills and help."

While he said this the Elven stranger looked strangely at him.Would he want to go off to Rivendell or was he not interrested in helping anyone.Eruantalon looked at the strangers and wondered what would be next.

piosenniel

01-02-2003, 04:11 PM

Pio rubbed the back of her neck as she listened to the woman from Rohan speak. 'You are in luck, Laurie. I have two rooms left. Would you prefer the one with a window facing west or perhaps the one facing east?' She watched as the woman fumbled with tired fingers to open the purse at her belt.

'A little flat.' she thought to herself. 'She must have travelled a long way and her monies nearly spent.' Her hand went out to Laurie's arm and stayed the removal of a single coin.' She smiled to herself, wondering what the Dwarf would think of this bargain.

'A new year has just begun. Keep your coin, m'lady, and give me a story from your travels in payment for the room.' Pio called to one of the servers who sat exhausted from the already long night. 'Some tea, Parin, if you please. The one from the shire - scented with elanor.'

She poured the tea for Laurie, Beruthiel, and herself, pushing the pot of honey toward them, should they so desire. Inviting Parin to take a cup with them, she sat back waiting for the story . .

Barodir

01-02-2003, 04:11 PM

Barodir lay in a deep sleep in his room. Though he was still asleep, the Elixer of Poppy that Pio had given him after his incedent with the theif was slowly starting to wear off, for his injured arm started to agitate him as he lie in his bed.

His thoughts and dreams that had, until this time, been about his glorious days as a loyal guard of Gondor and with his family, were starting to sour as well. Instead of glory, he dreamt of defeat. His dreams became about the punishment he would recieve for losing the treasures he was to retrieve, and what the punishment would be: Imprisonment? Banishment? Death?

Or perhaps his family would be forfeit? His wife that he had known all his life, and his son, still young but noble, training to become a guard as well. Were they to suffer for his mistake? Would they be tormented for his folly? Would they be forfeit for his ignorance?

Barodir woke with a start at this thought. His arm was numb, but still in pain. But he no longer cared for the arm, for that was the least of his worries.

"I must return to Gondor! I will not forfeit love for ignorance!"

He attempted to get up, but the Elixer caught a late hold on him, and he drifted back to sleep as fast as he had awakened.

Child of the 7th Age

01-02-2003, 04:20 PM

A hobbit woman staggered through the doorway, clutching her side and shoulder in obvious pain. With difficulty, she struggled to the bar, trying to maintain a modicum of poise, but nearly colliding with three Elves near the blazing hearth. They stared back with evident disdain, thinking she had taken in too many flagons of ale.

The hobbit moaned as her feet gave way and weakness overcame her. She made one last attempt to maintain an upright stance, flinging out her arms towards the nearest Mannish cloak in hopes of grabbing on for support. Alas, her efforts were in vain. With a terrible rip, the cloak gave way. The woman slid awkwardly to the floor, landing in a crumpled heap beside the table of Dark Shadow and Anuion.

Almost immediately, Piosenniel jumped up from her seat with the Dwarf, the Woman, and the again faint Elf. Glimpsing the tiny hobbit collapsed on the floor, she set down her dup of tea and, with the speed and agility common to her race, sped over to the fainting figure and lifted up her hand.

Pio could hear the woman mutter, "The pain, the pain, I am in distress...."

The Elf raised her eyebrows and replied in a stern motherly voice, "Camelia Brockhouse Goodchild, what have you done? I let you out of my sight one minute to visit kin in Minas Tirith, the greatest city of the realm, and you come back in terrible shape."

"That I have," muttered Cami through clenched teeth.

"What is wrong? Tell me. I am a healer and perhaps I may aid you."

"I fear nothing can aid me but the passage of time, or so I have been told." The small hobbit sighed, "My ribs are cracked. I tried to see an Elvish healer, but none were available in Minas Tirith, and Aragorn was gone from the city as well. I had the misfortune to visit the House of Healing and come under the care of one with only minimal skills in Mannish lore."

Cami lowered her voice, "Let me warn you that the healers of the big folk are not all they are reputed to be. I'm lucky to be alive, since I waited many hours before seeing the healer. There were many who needed to be treated first with wounds more grievous than mine, probably caused by brigands or some misfortune of war."

Piosenniel looked over to her friend with concern, "Did this Mannish healer offer you any rememdies?"

"He tried. I was given herbs. These are of some use in dulling pain, but as I am but a small hobbit, they put me to sleep or upset my stomach."

Piosenniel countered, "But how did you manage to come by this grievous injury?" When you departed from the Inn, you were in excellent health. Did you encounter a warg on the road, or perhaps a band of Orcs? Perhaps you had too many cups of mead?"

Cami fidgeted nervously and stared at her furry toes. She shook her head no, but seemed reluctant to explain further.

"Come now, little hobbit, how did these injuries occur?" The Elf repeated her question.

Cami leaned over and whispered in Pio's ear so no one else could hear. "I ate a very large dinner, as is the custom of hobbits visiting their kin, and then toppled down a stairwell. My own smial is all on one level as a hobbit dwelling should be, and does not have these things called "stairs", so perhaps I was a bit careless."

"No swords, or dragons, or wargs....only a little staircase?"

Cami looked a bit sheepish and shook her head yes.

"Well, then, sit down by the fire. I can see you will not be fit to tote trays for some time. You will rest a day or two, and then earn your keep by playing the flute."

Pio shook her head. What would Dwarin think on his return? Between grievous injuries to arms and ribs and the dark faces of some of the visitors, the place was beginning to look more like a healing house for the wayward souls of Middle-earth than a mirthful place for happy hobbits......

[ January 02, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Eruantalon

01-02-2003, 05:06 PM

Looking around the tabel he said"One moment sirs I shall be right back."

He whent over to the tabel where the fainting hobbit and the white lady where and said to pio"I see you are needed right now Pio but when you are free please come over. I need to speak with you about a room.There is also a pressing matter I wish to speak with you about but only when you are not needed"

With that said he walked away and back to the tabel.The Ranger and stranger where now speaking while he was gone.

excheeto

01-02-2003, 05:07 PM

Belle started,then woke up crying.She had had nightmares before,but something about this one seemed too complicated for her to fully understand.Something about the elves,they were too real.
In the dream,there were elves everywhere.They didn't seem scary like the ones in the main room,but they wern't paying attention to her.They were watching down a path in the forest.Were they waiting for something?yes,but whatever it was,it scared them.One of the elves suddenly shouted something about "black water".Belle was picked up as everyone ran,and an elven cloak was wrapped around her face.
Whoever had her stopped moving.It was a long time before arms let her go.She threw the cloak off,and saw the elf that had carried her sit back,head in hands,crying.Whatever they had been running from was still there.She couldn't see or hear it,but something was in the air.It was too quiet.
"Where are the others?"she asked the elf,but the elf only wrapped it's cloak around it's shoulders.Something about the silence made her cry.
"I should stay away from the elves I think"she whispered,"thier very polite,but strange folk,coming around the Shire all of a sudden,bringing nightmares..but I can't really say I hate them"
She fluffed her pillows,but felt restless.Looking out through the window,she saw the distant stars fading."Well,maybe I should go ahead and get up,it's almost morning".With that,she wiped her face and walked downstairs.

[ January 03, 2003: Message edited by: excheeto ]

Barodir

01-02-2003, 05:31 PM

It was early morning, about six hours since Barodir recieved the Elixer of Poppy when he finally awoke from his calm but painful slumber. He slowly sat up, being sure to cause no further injury to his left arm.

Immediatly, he thought of his dreams from the night past, and forgot entirely about his injury. He stood up out of bed and decided to leave as soon as possible, for he had to report his progress and save his family from potential torment and death.

Downstairs, the inn's main floor was desolate, save some Elves who had spent the night, a Hobbit and Pio. To anyone who seemed to notice him, he stated:

"I am truly sorry for the misfortune I have caused you and the other guests. I will be more courteous on my next visit, if there is one. I must return to Minas Tirith and accept my punishment for failure. I thank you for the treatment and room, and I bid you a Happy New Year. Farewell!"

He took his sheild, sword, and other gear and started for the door. At the doorway, he saw a figure that he wished he didn't: the theif from the previous night. He stared at the Dark Elf with a look of terror and hatred, for his nightmare was at this Elf's cost.

"You have evaded my blade for the last time!" Barodir shouted.

Then realizing the others were staring at him, he said, "I shall take this fight to the courtyard to prevent further damage to this fair inn."

With that, he drew out his blade and cast down his sheild, for his left arm was still in pain. Then he left to the yard to smite his foe, even if it claimed his own life...

[ January 02, 2003: Message edited by: Barodir ]

Everdawn

01-02-2003, 06:18 PM

The elven woman looked up and watched the ranger take his quarrell outside. For hours on end the mysterious elf had been writing, she then looked to the hobbit in need of a healer.. "My name is Umbria, i am familliar with elven medicine, should you need my assistance?, yet i am here because i see there will be many more in need of healing" she jestured to Barodir leaving. "men of the south.. it has been many years since i have travelled there" she gave a small laugh and finally put away her quill and examined the pages of her writing.

mark12_30

01-02-2003, 07:12 PM

One of the elves muttered, "Cami.. did you say Goodchilde? Well, then, perhaps this is for you. A hobbit gave it to me, a rather rapscallionish scamp. But the name is clear. Cami Goodchilde." The elf handed Cami the note.

Cami opened it.

Dear Mom:

I wish you'd just come home to the riverbank. I know you love that city, but I'm telling you, it's nothing but trouble. Men and circular walls and ... stairwells?? You never would have fallen like that from a good solid flet, I'll wager. You'd be safer in the forests than in those dratted cities.

And if you went to the tombs, I don't want to know!

If you can't come back to a nice safe riverbank to recuperate, then, make sure Bird understands your plight. She'll keep you out of trouble; although if she cracks too many jokes, you'll hurt your ribs again laughing. And I'm sure Piosenniel will be very helpful; just don't let her near you with a rope, even if she does claim it's for your own good.

Take care of yourself and watch your step.

Love, Gamba

Eruantalon

01-02-2003, 07:44 PM

Soon he grew ipatient his task was too urgent.So he excused himself again and walked over to Pios tabel.He gestured hello then towards a seat when Pio nodded and so he sat now by her for a moment.

Suddenly he heard the man come down who was wounded earlier.Now he was leaving and saw someone he was going to fight in the courtyard with him.

Well he thought to himself will I never get a minute where miss Pio wasn't running about.If this is how it always is here I will never return.

The Elf was tending the wounds of the hurt hobbit so he thought for a moment he could speak to her.It seemed now he had to wait at the tabel.

So he turned to them and said "Quite a night now wasn't this"

Bêthberry

01-02-2003, 07:48 PM

It was a long route and required several days' flying, particularly because of the need to avoid an especially viscious flock of crebain on the outskirts of Fangorn Forest, but eventually the brown and white falcon found his way to The Green Dragon. He eyed the windows and door warily and when one opened, he quickly took his chance and flew in.

Bedraggled, wet, and mightily hungry, he spotted the elf who looked a tad bilious and perched down on a chairback near her. He stretched his neck and pecked at his wing feathers to settle them down, and then offered her his left leg, the one with the metal band, tiny scrolled message, and a small, very small, parcel.

The elf watched him a minute or two and then reached over to take the message. The Innkeeper read it:

Good gracious, Cami, what wretched adventures befall a hobbit outside The Shire. That city is simply not the finest place to be.

I am glad, most glad, to hear that you have returned to your comfortable smial and hope that rest will aid your recovery. Lift no heavy boxes, lie back and let your bones knit, take it easy.

Wrapped inside this Air Falcon package please find some herbal tincture for rubbing on your ribs, to soothe the pain, and a tasty nibble of chocolate squares.

And promise me never again to attempt to imitate those who would float on stairs. You are not cut out for it.

love and best wishes,
Bethberry,
The White Horse

The Innkeeper looked up after reading the missive and found herself the object of a hungry glare. Turning to the kitchen, she sought out some strips of flesh to satisfy the carniverous bird.

She wondered if the bird would be able to guide anyone to Rohan on his return journey.

[ January 02, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[ January 10, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

[ January 10, 2003: Message edited by: Bethberry ]

Rai

01-02-2003, 07:53 PM

'I'd say it was.' The young girl's cool comment was quiet. 'Did you see?' she asked. 'The man who was hurt is leaving. He looks like a Ranger to me.'
Jatyn tossed her head. A quick nap had refreshed her and her golden eyes sparked with good health. However, she knew that she had to be moving on. She had a mission.
-Jatyn Coolheart-

"The winds of evil flag against me, yet I am immovable."

Merri

01-02-2003, 08:24 PM

Elanor sighed. What a day! She was sure this part of the Shire had never seen such happenings, not for a very long time.

It seemed a trend at the moment for people to collapse from weariness, she noted. Things were not looking well- Elanor hoped that she would not become like them in the later stages of her journey.

Faced with all these new happenings, she felt even smaller than usual. "Miss Pio?" She called uncertainly. "Will you be needing me any more for tonight?" Because I'd very much like to go to bed, she thought, thinking longingly of the rooms waiting for her in another part of the inn.

Beruthiel

01-02-2003, 08:26 PM

Beruthiel opened her eyes slowly, she was sitting on a chair all alone. On the table in front of her was pot of tea with three cups. She looked around to see a tall man walk outside, two women tending a halfling as well as other creatures sitting and drinking around the other tables.

One of the two women noticed her and came over. "Hello, are you alright? I am Piosenniel or Pio and who are you?."
said the elf.
"I am Beruthiel." replied the elf.
"Here have some tea, it might make you feel better." said pio as she poured some into a cup and moved it towards Beruthiel.
"Thank you, is there room in this place to stay?" she asked, sipping the tea.

[ January 02, 2003: Message edited by: Beruthiel ]

Everdawn

01-02-2003, 08:35 PM

Umbria stayed at her table and called to Barodir "you say you are a man of the south, tell me friend, how is the south, for it has been long since my travel permitted me to be there" she then took out the thick wad of papers she had written and lay them upon the table "do you know the prince of Dol Amroth?"

Kirsanne_Tolebrass

01-02-2003, 09:11 PM

A female hobbit around the age of 30 comes inside and sits in a corner by herself listening to the talk of others.

She has long, curly brown hair and is relatively tall for a hobbit. She sees her friend Araminta Greene walk in and goes to talk to her.

[ January 03, 2003: Message edited by: Kirsanne_Tolebrass ]

Beruthiel

01-02-2003, 09:25 PM

"Yes there are some rooms available and I will help you with that later, for now I must tend to miss goodchild who is in great pain. I will come back to you soon." said Pio
"Alright" replied Beruthiel. 'I guess I should try to meet someone to cure my loneliness, although I do feel much better.' she thought to herself. Her legs still ached a little but she had mainly only been dehydrated and the tea had cured it.

A young halfling had just walked in and sat in the corner. 'They are a curious folk, the halflings, I have never met one before. I guess I should start somewhere.'
She walked over to the corner where the halfling sat.
"Hi, my name is Beruthiel and I am new to these parts, may I join you?" asked Beruthiel.

Orual

01-02-2003, 10:18 PM

Rie and Nuru sat there for a while in silence, but not an uncomfortable silence...more like a contented silence, just pleased to be with each other and finding no need for words. Finally Rie stood up.

"Well, I had told myself earlier that I'd probably not stay here for the night, and I was right--I suppose I know myself. I hear some commotion downstairs, and I wouldn't want to miss anything. And it appears that this is an inn where if you stay too long in one place, you miss a world of activity!" Rie laughed cheerfully, and gestured for Nuru to stand up. "So come, let's go down and see what's going on, and what we've missed."

[ January 02, 2003: Message edited by: Orual ]

Nurumaiel

01-02-2003, 10:19 PM

OOC: Redoing my post, as Orual's came right before mine and we did different things. smilies/smile.gif

======================

Nuru hurried down the stairs next to Rie, laughing and joking with her all the way. Nuru couldn't even begin to think how glad she was to have met this sweet maid.

When they arrived downstairs they found that a great deal had been going on. By asking questions, they soon found out that one woman had fainted at the door and a young hobbit lass had taken a tumble down the stairs, though they weren't able to find out if it were at her home or at the inn.

Nuru couldn't help noticing that Pio seemed very busy, running back and forth, so she whispered in Rie's ear and then approached Pio.

"Could Rie and I help out in the kitchen, Pio?" she asked. "We see you're busy and we'd love to help."

[ January 02, 2003: Message edited by: Nurumaiel ]

theWhiteLady

01-02-2003, 10:34 PM

Laurie was touched that the innkeeper could be so kind. Traveling so far had been hard and her purse was much thinner than when she set out. What she really needed was some work, of any sort really, to help pay expenses.

"Thank you so very much. I have traveled far on my journeys, but never have I come to a place more friendly, I cannot express my gratitude. My story is not very long, for though I have come from far, I have not had many adventures upon the way. You see..."

But just as she was getting started, the door burst open and in staggered a hobbit! What a very active place this is, indeed, thought Laurie. Pio quickly jumped up to help the little creature, and for several minutes, there seemed to be chaos inside the inn. A man came down from the rooms above and yelled something about a fight and another hobbit entered the inn. All this motion made Laurie's head swim with confusion and she stood up unsteadily, draining the last of her tea. Pio seemed busy tending to the hurt hobbit and the other customers. Perhaps she could just ask the little brown-haired hobbit standing over yonder the way to her room. She stood, her white dress rustling, and made her way to the little person, who looked nearly as tired as herself.

"I'm terribly sorry to bother you, but could you please show me to my room? I'm afraid the innkeeper is rather busy, and I do not want to bother her. If she should ask, tell her she shall recieve full payment for the room when I awake, but all this activity is rather much at the moment." Laurie hoped she wasn't being too much of a bother but she felt she would end up falling asleep in her chair, which would be rude indeed.

excheeto

01-02-2003, 11:42 PM

Belle slowly walked over and sat at a table,rubbing her eyes the whole way.An elven lady walked over to her table.
"Hi, my name is Beruthiel and I am new to these parts, may I join you?" she asked.Belle was startled,but quickly calmed herself.'Forget the dream'she thought,then gave a nervouse smile.
"Sit down"Belle said,"where are you from and why are you here?there's not much to tell about these parts,I used to think nothing ever happened around here,but I think I've changed my mind"she cut her sentence off quickly,she knew right away she had probably said more than she should.

Child of the 7th Age

01-03-2003, 12:13 AM

Cami snuggled contentedly in by the fire. She'd received a lovely letter by Shire post from her son Gamba, and another sent by her dear friend Bethberry, which had been hastily conveyed on the back of a great brown and white falcon. Both contained good wishes for her speedy recovery, and the ardent hope that she would refrain from future journies to the geat city of the realm, which was simply too large and confusing for a small hobbit such as herself. For one moment, she smiled a bit and forget the throbbing pain in her side.

Just as she was about to slip back into dreamy reveries of sweet summer days with swimming holes and fireworks over the Shire, her thoughts were interrupted by a great black Bird that flew in raucously from outside, and departed just as swiftly. Cami's heart went pat-a-pat, as this was one whom she had not seen for some time.

A clever message of greeting came spinning into her lap. It included several lovely compliments on the size of her feet (which, if truth be told, Cami considered her best feature) and suggested any hobbit with such a generous gift had best stay clear of stairwells. Cami began to giggle at that advice, but thought better of it due to the splitting pain which such laughter quickly produced. So she hobbled over to the window and looked up longingly to the sky, and waved a last goodbye to her friend Bird who was apparently migrating south for the winter, but was expected to return in the spring.

Then Cami noticed a young hobbit named Laurie who was shaking out her purse and sadly counting over the few pennies that still remained inside. She seemed like an agreeable enough lass, if a little shy.

Perhaps, Cami thought, since I can't tote trays very well the next few weeks, this lass might be interested in helping serve drinks and dinners in exchange for a warm bed and several good hobbit meals a day. Cami scribbled out a note to the Elf Innkeeper and left it tacked up on her door to see if something might be arranged. For although the girl was poor, she seemed quite cheerful and perhaps knew a tale or two to help amuse the visitors to the Inn.

[ January 03, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

piosenniel

01-03-2003, 03:02 AM

Pio heard the small, tired voice of Elanor saying exactly what she was feeling. 'Go on to bed, Elanor. You've done a good days work just in these last few hours of the night.' She saw the Hobbit sigh with relief and trudge toward the staircase to the rooms above.

Her shoulders slumped when she heard Pio call her name, just as she put her foot on the first step. 'Oh no, not another fallen visitor to the Inn. I just can't bear it!' But all the Elf wanted was for her to show Beruthiel and Laurie to their rooms. Elanor gave them each a lighted candle to take up stairs with them and motioned for them to follow her.

Pio made another pot of sweet spice tea and went to the table where Cami sat, her eyes dreamy from the potions of the Mannish healers. 'It doesn't really take away the pain does it.' she said to her friend as she sat down and propped her legs on on a chair seat. 'It just makes you not really care that you're hurting.' She poured a cup of hot tea for her friend and pushed the pot of honey toward her, along with a small plate of jame filled scones.

It was comfortable, sitting there, with Cami. They had been friends for so long that often they finished each others' thoughts, or could sit in silence for long whiles without the urge to chatter at each other.

'I miss Bird.' said Pio softly. 'I wish she could have stayed a little while longer.' She sipped slowly on her drink. 'She's gone to Sheetrock, you know. A little known village somewhere out east.'

Eruantalon had come up silently to the table and stood near. 'May I help you?' said the Elf, looking at him over the rim of her cup. He wanted a room for the night, but Pio had just given the last to the two women who had gone upstairs with Elanor.

'It's a fair night, Sir. Come I have a place you can stay snug and warm and there will be no charge.' She bade him gather up his pack and bedroll and took him out to the stable and up to the hayloft.

Mounding the hay as if it were a mattress, she threw several clean horse blankets over it, and helped him lay out his bedroll. She positioned a small crate near the head of his bed, and left him a small lantern for his use. 'Be very careful, sir.' she warned him. 'Do not go to sleep with the lantern still lit. I would not have the stable burned down and find you done to a crisp tomorrow morning.'

With a word of good-night to him, she climbed back down the ladder, and went back inside to sit with Cami. They watched the scenes and faces in the embers of the dying fire, remembering things long past.

[ January 03, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

ambi

01-03-2003, 03:50 AM

Esgalindorn, the ranger finally woke up. Sipping beer from a mug given to him by the inn keeper he heard all that people around him were speaking about. He looked around and saw elves, hobbits, dwarves and men.

He stood up and spoke out, "Listen to me, fair folk. I bring news from my captain in the North."

A few people looked up at him in wonder. None of them had noticed how young the ranger was. He couldn't be more than 18 years of age. Young and full of life, but at the same time, there seemed to be some bitter grief in his eyes.

"A decision was made to increase the number of rangers posted in and around the shire. And I've been chosen as one of them."

Dark Shadow

01-03-2003, 05:22 AM

Eruantalon had left the table, and the Elf was now sat by the Ranger who had asked his name. Well, he sits with me, and has a right to know, he thought, and what harm can it do now? Half the inn at least must know of my name by now. He sighed.

“My name is Erdaminéon. I know not how many times I have spoken those four words tonight, but enough to put anyone who searched for me onto my trail.”

He watched as Eruantalon spoke to Pio, and wondered. What was so important that he should rush to trouble Pio? She was busy, so it must be urgent. Then Both left the inn, and Pio returned. For a moment he sat and watched, but the rain was beginning to cease, and he could not put things off any longer.

“My friend,” he said to the ranger, Anuion, “I must leave you now, but I hope our paths will cross again. I do not know what you are to be led into by Eruantalon there, but I hope all the best for you.”

He rose from the table and crossed the room once again, weaving in and out of the tables. He made his way to where Pio sat, where the man had spoken to her. He put a hand beneath his cloak, and drew out a handful of coins, which he set on the table beside her.

“For the ale and food you have served me during the night,” he begun, “ and for your kindness also. I must ask you to tell my friend Eruantalon that I have left, and also that I will meet him again. I do not know when, but I may return here soon. And wish him luck for me. He will understand.”

With this, Erdaminéon turned and walked slowly and wistfully through the door, becoming part of the night as he faded out of the sight of all who had seen him leave. He untied his horse, and leapt swiftly and gracefully onto the back of the great creature, and a last echo of hooves was heard outside the inn as he left.

doug*platypus

01-03-2003, 06:22 AM

Even on such a crisp winter morning, the bright sun of the Shire was enough to awaken the laziest and most tired of Hobbits. Biffo Proudfoot was neither lazy, nor in this particular case tired, having turned in early the previous night, shortly after the man with the wounded shoulder had been put to rest. Biffo had retired early to think and to sleep. [I]'Still, one out of two isn't bad, after all'[/I ]he thought to himself as he swung out of bed. Biffo had left the shades open, and could see a fine morning outside, though it was a little frosty on the ground.

After ducking his head into some cold water in one of the inn's modest bathrooms, the Hobbit managed to find a door leading outside to the privvies. On Biffo's return, he happened to spot the wounded man from last night, apparently recovered, standing on his own in a courtyard. Even more odd, the man had his sword drawn. His left arm was still in obvious discomfort, as he stood clenching and unclenching his fist. The man's breath was ragged in the early morning chill. Biffo decided that all things considered, it was time to rejoin the company in the common room.

As he walked back in to the common room, Biffo spotted several familiar faces as well as one or two new ones. Pio the able innkeeper and healer was by the fire, looking peaceful but hardly very rested. Cami, the Hobbit who had drafted Biffo into her Kitchen Army last night sat next to her, a little worse for wear.

"Good morning!" Biffo called to them as he walked past. In the corner next to an Elf maid was his second cousin (or was it third?), Belle. Even the prospects of yet another breakfast with his relatives could not daunt Biffo on this day, and he strolled over to take a seat next to the unlikely pair, taking off his hat and setting it nearby.

After introductions, Belle began to bring her kinshobbit up to speed on the goings on at the Inn. It certainly was a lively place. Biffo planned to take a walk around Bywater later in the morning, but thought that he would come back afterwards. After all, he was a free Hobbit, for a while.

Biffo politely waited for a lull in the conversation to bring up a topic rather pressing to his mind. When it was apparent that Belle didn't seem to allow for such lulls, he interrupted.

"Who do you suppose is in charge of breakfasts around here?"

theWhiteLady

01-03-2003, 08:23 AM

The room to which the brown-haired hobbit had led her had a large, springy bed that sunk down wonderfully when Laurie laid down. She did not even take the time to change from her soiled dress or turn the many quilts down to snuggle under; she only stretched out, gave one last yawn, and fell into a deep and dreamless sleep.

It was the chorus of birds singing enthusiastically outside Laurie's window that finally awoke her. She rolled over and had to think a moment about where she was, and all that had happened the night before. She had often traveled, but seldom had her travels been so busy with comings and goings of many strange people. It took quite a moment to sort it all out, but a rumbling stomach soon brought Laurie from her thoughts.

She changed quickly, slipping from her old dress to a new, clean one. It was white too, her favorite colour. And just as she was about to step over the threshhold, she noticed the prescence of a little envelope, most likely slipped under the door during the night. She wondered why in Middle-earth anyone would write to her, but as she read a large smile crept over her face and made her blue eyes sparkle.

Back down below, she saw the elf she had helped from the night before, a lady hobbit, and a male hobbit all sitting together. Near the fire, the hobbit who had collapsed (and whose name she had now learned to be Cami) and Pio were sitting in front of the hearth. Both had their eyes closed, perhaps they were sleeping, I had best not disturb them, thought Laurie. So she sat down in a chair nearby to wait, and in the meantime, she gazed around at the inn and the people within, quite curious now that weariness had left her.

Barodir

01-03-2003, 09:10 AM

A long time after he had left to fight, Barodir returned, much like he had the previous night, but he had a look of victory upon his rough, bearded face. In his right hand, he held a sack, not larger than one that would carry a few coins.

"I'm sorry for the mess outside. I have stained your courtyard with both my blood and that of my opponent. But he has been smote, and I took his lifeless body to the water and left it to drift."

He then held the bag up. "I only hope I can return these to the White city in time." Out of the bag, he took out 4 golden decorative rings, and a pendant made of silver. He laughed to himself saying his trials have been over something so small and he almost died for the little pieces of metal.

"My steed is fast, but it would still take a long time with the route I must take."

The others seemed to still be in awe that a man with an injured arm was able to defeat a well armed Elf.

He asked the loudly so everyone could hear "Is there any way I can get to Minas Tirith faster?"...

Child of the 7th Age

01-03-2003, 09:40 AM

As the Inn came to life with the hustle and bustle of the morning, Cami awoke in her chair beside the hearth. She had apparently slept there all night, with a woolen blanket draped loosely over her knees, dozing off and on and dreaming of better days. As the rays from the sun streamed through the Inn's front windows, consciousness slowly returned, making Cami acutely aware of the throbbing pain that still shot up her right side. She straightened up and stretched, then shuffled over to the bar to pour herself a drink of water and gulp down her herbal remedies.

Piosenniel had also roused, and was attempting to scurry this way and that, answering the cries of many hobbits inquiring about first and second breakfast. Even with Elanor's help, and Rie and Nurumaiel pitching in last night, Piosenniel had been hard pressed to tend bar, do the cooking and serving, and still keep the bedrooms of the Inn neat and tidy. Nor were things much better this morning. Pio obviously needed help, which Cami unfortunately could not provide. A wave of frustration came over her...so much to do and too few hands to do it. What a dreadful time to pick to tumble down a stairwell.

But perhaps there was a way out of this mess. It was then that Cami saw the small hobbit, the one named Laurie, walking towards her and holding a letter in her hand.

[ January 03, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Schmendrick

01-03-2003, 09:48 AM

After having made a fool of himself on the dance floor, Durmán had stayed in the shadows, only watching the others come and go.

There had been much going on that night indeed, but at some point weariness had overcome him and he had fallen asleep. It was no wonder, since he had been travelling for many days without halting.

All of a sudden, in the middle of his dark dreams, he thought he heard a voice pronouncing the words "Dol Amroth".

And with that Durmán was suddenly wide awake. The prince of Dol Amroth...he was sure someone had said those words, but who?

[ January 03, 2003: Message edited by: Schmendrick ]

Merri

01-03-2003, 10:29 AM

It seemed as if Elanor had barely laid her head down when she heard the bustle of morning in the inn. She opened her eyes a crack, and saw that there was bright sunlight streaming in through the windows. It can't be morning already, She thought, turning over in her warm, comfy, hobbit-sized bed.

But as she heard the sound of voices rising, she realized there was no denying it. With a sigh, she got up, dressed, made herself look neat, and went down the stairs tying on her apron.

"Miss Pio, is there anything you'd like me to do?" She asked, resisting the temptation to yawn and rub her eyes.

theWhiteLady

01-03-2003, 11:03 AM

Laurie watched, fascinated, as a man entered the inn, injured but triumphant. He pulled out a bag and the contents glittered as he poured them into his hand. He laughed, but then his brow furrowed in thought.

"Is there any way I can get to Minas Tirith faster?"... he said aloud.

Laurie thought of her own horse, Nell, in the stables outside. She was one of the best mares of Rohan, Laurie's homeland, and her pride and joy. Nell knew the way to Minas Tirith, and many short cuts, she had traveled there often. She was small but fleet of foot, and would be rested after spending the night in a proper stable for the first time in quite awhile. Still, Nell was Laurie's companion and one of her best friends; she decided to wait and see if anyone else came forward before approaching the man. Besides, who knew on what business he might be going to Minas Tirith...

So deep was she in thought, she had not even realized Pio was up and about and Cami had shuffled to the bar. She finally spotted the little hobbit and walked quickly over bearing the letter left in her room.

"Good morning, Cami," with this she made a small curtsy. "I found this note under my door this morning, saying you wished to speak to me about helping out for awhile in this inn?" Laurie felt eager and excited about the prospect of any job, however small, but she did not want to be too presumptous.

piosenniel

01-03-2003, 12:08 PM

She stood in the middle of the kitchen, skillet in hand, wondering how she was going to feed all those hungry customers thronging the Common Room. Pio's eyes were bleary from lack of sleep, and now they gazed toward the floor where the beaten eggs she had meant to pour into the pan lay congealing at her feet.

'Fires of Udun take you!' she muttered at the eggy mess, and knelt to clean it up with an old rag. 'Why couldn't Eru have made the other races more like the Elves.' she grumbled to herself. 'Had I been consulted there would have been a lot less emphasis on the belly and more on the brain!'

'Yes, Elanor!' she yelled out through the closed door, when she heard the Hobbit's question. 'Get in here, quick, and help me or every one will be having potluck for breakfast!' She wiped up the last of the spill, and stood rinsing the rag in the stone sink.

'And bring someone with you,' she bellowed again. 'We are going to need help this morning . . .'

Nurumaiel

01-03-2003, 12:30 PM

Hearing Pio's cry to Elanor, Nuru turned to Rie. "I'm going to go help Pio in the kitchen," she said. "If you want to come along, feel free." Then she hurried into the kitchen, where it was obvious Pio had just cleaned up a mess.

Nuru approached Pio and smiled at her. "I was wondering, Pio," she said, "could I help you?"

piosenniel

01-03-2003, 12:50 PM

Pio handed the skillet and an apron to Nuru, pointing as she did so to the large basket of eggs still remaining. 'Better luck with those than I had!' she said ruefully. 'Three large platters ought to do it for now.' She handed her another large skillet and a long string of sausages. 'And while you're at it, better get these going. Hobbits will be asking for them.'

Pio took out five large loaves of bread she had done in the wee hours of the day, and plied her knife on them like a field surgeon among the injured troops - quick and efficient but a little irregular about the edges.

She strode to the door of the kitchen, and sent out another call. 'If you will be wanting any toast this morning, some of you better get in here and ply the toasting forks!'

Sluicing the crumbs from her hands under a thin stream of cold water in the sink, she moved on to her next victims - the cheeses . . .

Nurumaiel

01-03-2003, 12:59 PM

Grinning, Nuru set to work, cracking the eggs and frying the sausages. She was eager to help, having nothing better to do, and since Pio needed help, it seemed to be working quite well.

Nuru wasn't exactly wonderful at cooking, being an elf and living in Rivendell, but on her recent visits to Rohan and the Shire, she'd been required to help and had some skills. Fortunately Pio had put her in charge of the eggs and sausages, for she was pretty handy at cooking them.

"Er... how do you want these eggs done, Pio?" asked Nuru without turning around.

"Any way you can think of," replied Pio. "Our guests won't be able to agree on just one style of egg."

Our guests, thought Nuru with a smile. I suppose while you're helping out for awhile, you're considered a staff member for that time. Or at least a hired hand.

Wondering who else would come -or be dragged- into the kitchen, Nuru started on the first dozen eggs.

Child of the 7th Age

01-03-2003, 01:01 PM

Seeing Pio's jagged nerves and ill temper, Cami knew that a lot of help would be needed very quickly. She turned to speak with Laurie.

"We certainly could use some assistance. It looks like Pio's found Nuru and Rie to help in the kitchens and the serving room, but there's still all the beds to be done, the chambers dusted, and the pathway to the Inn to be shoveled out from the snow. We'd be much obliged if you could help. You'd have a place to sleep, shelter for your pony, food for you both, and the tips the guests would leave you. And if Mistress Pio gets her temper back, she might even throw in a coin or two."

"If you'd like, here is a shovel to dig out the snow, and over there mops and cleaning rags and a bucket that you can fill with water from the well out back. And if you have experience mucking out stables or currying and feeding horses, that would be even better."

theWhiteLady

01-03-2003, 01:39 PM

Laurie could hear the noise from inside the kitchen growing louder. She grinned when Cami mentioned cleaning the stable.

"I'll get right to work, thank you so much. I can easily take care of the stable; taking care of horses is just part of life where I come from."

Glad to be of use, Laurie wrung the little hobbit's hand happily and then grabbed a shovel to dig out the pathway. She walked quickly out of the inn and began shoveling enthusiastically, humming a bit as she worked and going over the list of chores in her mind.

Orual

01-03-2003, 03:37 PM

Rie took an apron and tied on with quick fingers, being quite used to aprons herself. In fact, the whole atmosphere seemed quite familiar--with the frustrated Pio being her often-overwhelmed mother. She went up to Nuru and, without a word, began to help her with the eggs.

More comfortable with this task than nearly any she had undertaken since she had run away, Rie set about cracking the eggs with deft flicks of her wrist. "Can you tell I've done this before?" she asked Nuru.

Nuru laughed. "Oh, maybe once or twice. I don't know...it looks to me like you could still use some practice."

Rie grinned at her. "Five hungry brothers who can't crack an egg without either spilling it all over the floor or stabbing themselves with a piece of shell makes for an egg-adept young woman," she said.

Merri

01-03-2003, 05:30 PM

Elanor sprang into action, grabbing rags and soap. "Tom!" She shouted, at her new friend. "Didn't you hear Miss Pio? Get into the kitchen and help her! I'll be there in a half a second." And soon the two hobbits were on their knees beside the inn keeper, scrubbing away.

The smell of a breakfast in the making made Elanor even hungrier than she might have been before, and the stew she had had last night seemed ages ago. But a hungry and tired hobbit does not make for good company, and Elanor knew that as soon as anyone spoke to her, she'd probably say something she'd regret for a long time, so she kept quiet, trying not to think about the food so close and yet out of reach to her at the moment, and concentrating on cleaning the mess up in the kitchen.

Why, oh why did I ever leave my comfy hole? A voice wailed in the back of her mind. But another voice answered right away: To help your cousin, you silly halfling, and work is good for you. You could do without a meal or two, Elanor Greenthumb.

[ January 03, 2003: Message edited by: Merri ]

Beruthiel

01-03-2003, 07:47 PM

"Who do you suppose is in charge of breakfast around here?" asked Biffo.
He had just joined the table, being one of Belle's cousins.
"I had a feeling that Pio was running this place, maybe she could help you?" replied Beruthiel, trying to sound like she knew what she was talking about.
"Yes maybe, I'll get some drinks and find out, what would you like?"
"Just some tea thanks."
"Me too."

Biffo walked off towards Pio to get the drinks while Belle and Beruthiel sat and the table still. Belle had said something eariler about how she had changed her mind about things happening around here. After that Belle had seemed a little tense.
"I see that you aren't really used to us elven-folk." said Beruthiel grinning a little.
"Oh, well no I guess not. There aren't usually quite as many of you people in here." replied Belle, smiling nervously.

theWhiteLady

01-03-2003, 07:58 PM

Laurie breathed in deeply, tasting the deliciously crisp air. Though snow was not common in Rohan, she had always loved to play in it as a small girl. It always seemed to made everything so clean and pure, as though all the world had been wiped clean of dirt and grime and had started afresh.

Laurie laid aside her shovel and stretched out her muscles. Snow was pretty, but it was also tiring to shovel. Delicious smells of breakfast were leaking through a window, tantalizingly out of reach. I hope it will be ready soon! Laurie's mouth began to water.

But for now, there were chores still to be done. She strode over the snow-free path and entered the stable. After greeting Nell and giving her a little sugar cube, Laurie mucked out the stalls and filled the water buckets. It was when she climbed to the loft to push a few bales of hay down that she saw a man right on top of a particuraly large bale. This must be a customer... or at least, I certainly hope he is a customer!
Laurie wondered whether or not to disturb him, he was sleeping very peacefully. But mayhap he was not supposed to be here, and if he was a customer, he would be wanting some breakfast. Laurie made up her mind to try to rouse him. She kneeled down and touched him lightly on the shoulder.

"Ex... Excuse me, sir. I don't mean to bother you, but breakfast will be served soon, and I thought you might want to know."

Nurumaiel

01-03-2003, 08:06 PM

With Rie helping her, Nuru had soon finished the first platter of eggs. "Do you want me to go serve some breakfast?" asked Nuru, and Pio nodded.

Rie was still working on cooking, so Nuru began filling the plates with eggs and sausages, hurrying out into the common room. When she saw how many hungry eyes looked towards her when she came in, she sighed, and wondered if they would have enough food for breakfast, dinner, and supper, let alone all the meals the hobbits liked.

A smiling suddenly appearing on her face, Nuru cried, "All right, who wants some breakfast?"

piosenniel

01-03-2003, 10:25 PM

No one had answered her call to make toast. An old campaigner, from wars now long forgotten, Pio walked out into the Common Room and and looked for likely volunteers. There sat the two Hobbits - Biffo and his erstwhile cousin, Belle.

'Come, you two.' she said firmly to them, hooking her arms through theirs as she picked them up from their seats. 'I know Hobbbits are well versed in making toast, and I need your assistance."

She handed each of them two toasting forks and the platter of fresh cut bread. 'Toast this up, if you will, then arrange it nicely on these two trays.' She picked up a tray filled with jam pots, honey jars, and saucers of fresh, sweet butter.

'I'm going out to put these on the tables, and when you're done you can pass the trays of toast around, along with the cheese in case anyone desires it.'

She leaned over and whispered to Beruthiel as she sat the jam, honey, and butter at her table. 'If it's not too juch trouble, Elf. Pass out the cups to people then bring out the pots of tea and coffee for them and make the rounds.' Pio eyed her closely. 'Sleep has done you well, Beruthiel. Grab an apron in the kitchen then, and hop to it!'

'Just like Pio to organize things.' thought Cami as she relaxed in her chair, the twinge in her ribs down to a dull, persistent ach for the moment. She chuckled to herself. 'Good thing they aren't facing the enemy with her - she can be ruthless in her orders . . . and relentless.'

The Hobbit raised her nose to sniff the smells of a substantial Shire breakfast. Mouth watering at the enticing scents, she tied a napkin about her neck and waited.

[ January 03, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

doug*platypus

01-03-2003, 10:53 PM

"Who do you suppose is in charge of breakfasts around here?" asked Biffo.

"I had a feeling that Pio was running this place, maybe she could help you?" offered the Elf maid, Beruthiel, although from the sounds of it this was her first visit to the Inn as well.

"Yes maybe," Biffo replied, "I'll get some drinks and find out. What would you like?"

"Just some tea thanks," said the Elf. Biffo had the strangest feeling on hearing these words, some kind of deja-whatsit.

"Me too," added Belle. Biffo stirred from his reverie and wandered over towards the bar. Just then the innkeeper Pio arrived, and recruited Biffo and Belle into toast making duties.

There were great sounds of frying, cracking, crackling and general hustle and bustle coming from the kitchen. There were now six or seven helpers, Elf and Hobbit alike. Biffo was amazed at how quickly they had managed to stir up so much activity, and get the Inn back to a lively level of business. Many hands made light work. The two cousins handed out toast to all and sundry around the common room. Soon one of the Elves appeared from out of the kitchen.

"All right, who wants some breakfast?" she asked. Biffo was, true to form, first in line. He appropriated three decent-sized breakfasts as well as requesting a pot of tea. After the Elf had found out how much he owed for this and for last night's bill, Biffo counted out the coins and gave them to her with a few coppers extra. Although rich by no means, the last few weeks of work in the Southfarthing had left Biffo reasonably well off for now.

He took the trays of breakfast over, sausages, eggs and nice crispy bacon, then returned to the bar area to wait for their tea. Biffo noticed that the rough, grim warrior still stood in the middle of the common room, his cries for assistance so far unheeded. Biffo had listened with shock and dismay to his tale of the fight outside, and wondered why noone outside had rushed to stop it. The early morning noise in The Green Dragon meant that noone inside the common room would have heard rumour of it. This particular Hobbit was a Proudfoot through and through, and couldn't resist a little jab at the man, whose crazed look of pride was more disturbing than fearsome.

"You want the fastest way to Minas Tirith, sir? I'm sure the Shirriffs will be happy to drop you at the southern border. They'll be along any minute, once they spot a great fekking Elf body floating down The Water. Might even make you stay to bury the fellow, at the very least. If you want my advice, you'll leave before they catch up with you."

Warrior or not, the man was injured, and in any case unlikely to fight off the whole of The Shire on his own. The sooner the Shirriffs arrived, the better, thought Biffo. He had half a mind to fetch them himself - after breakfasts.

[ January 03, 2003: Message edited by: doug*platypus ]

Eruantalon

01-03-2003, 11:51 PM

Deep in his dream he saw golden beauty all around him. Sweet beauty of old, then cries. Orcs! Anger! Fire! Hate. Burning beauty! Tears rolled from his eyes.

Screaming darkness, pushing towards the light. Two now moving around. Such a strange way, they did not see before. ‘No!’ he thought. ‘They have taken it.’ Not yet, not by their hand! Then came the vision of a great net, silently cast out. Elven warriors. The great net. A field . . . no a forest . . .

Now his eyes opened "What! Who are you?" he cried, surprised. "I need rest, for where I go there will be none. Lest I find the eternal rest of mortal men." he said, trailing off from his visions and dark words.

"I am sorry I did not mean to upset you in any way." He said to the woman who had woken him. "Please forgive me, and tell Pio to wake me at 10:00 to get ready for lunch." He smiled at her. "You only woke me from a harsh place I hope never to see again!" he said apologetically.

So she left and he fell back to sleep. But there was no more dream . . . only empty blackness.

[ January 04, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Everdawn

01-04-2003, 04:04 AM

Downstairs Umbria felt Durman stir from his slumber. "Dol Amroth" she repeated to herself in a whisper "Durman, then he is here."

In another part of the Green Dragon she sensed great and immense fear. "One here is facing dark times" she thought to herself, her piercing stare going into a trance as she stared into space. A tear ran from her eyes and she whispered "a terrible terrible fear.."

She had not spoken for hours to a sole in the Inn when she heard the call for breakfast by Biffo. She smiled "I have with me lembas if your hunger permits you to no longer wait"

[ January 04, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Beruthiel

01-04-2003, 05:00 AM

Beruthiel went into the kitchen and grabbed an apron as Pio had instructed her.
'Gosh this place is so organised!' She thought to her self. Hobbits and elves alike were scurrying around the kitchen helping out, following Pio's orders. It was quite a sight!

Beruthiel looked around to see the cups and tea pots on a counter, she picked them up and started her round.

[ January 04, 2003: Message edited by: Beruthiel ]

Orual

01-04-2003, 10:08 AM

"All right, who wants some breakfast?"

Rie laughed as the line formed almost before Nuru was done talking. "Looks like I'd better keep going," she thought as the food disappeared from Nuru's tray. She had gotten into the swing of things with her eggs, and was now multi-tasking, cooking some bacon. She heard the door open, and looked to see who it was. Another Elf--Beruthiel was her name, Rie was fairly sure.

"Welcome to the kitchen patrol, Beruthiel!" Rie laughed.

Barodir

01-04-2003, 10:47 AM

Barodir stood in the room, still waiting for an answer. He waited quite some time, for many were working with their breakfasts. He was begining to despair when, at long last, a Hobbit came forth and told him:

"You want the fastest way to Minas Tirith, sir? I'm sure the Shirriffs will be happy to drop you at the southern border. They'll be along any minute, once they spot a great fekking Elf body floating down The Water. Might even make you stay to bury the fellow, at the very least. If you want my advice, you'll leave before they catch up with you."

The Hobbit seemed annoyed that Barodir fought as much as he did. After all, the guard of Gondor had fought twice in one day. Once injured, as well.

He thought about the proposal of leaving before the shirriffs, but said "Halfling, even if they are against me, they can still assist, and I will wait for them, when I can explain my story to them."

He then sat down at a table and asked the Hobbit "When's breakfast?"

piosenniel

01-04-2003, 12:05 PM

Pio flopped down with a discrete oomph in the chair opposite Cami. She glanced about the Inn at the hustle and bustle of the volunteer breakfast brigade. Smiling at her friend, she commented, 'Now that's what I like to see! A busy crew and a tightly run ship.'

Cami laughed and shook her head at the Elf. 'This isn't the Star, Pio. You can't go about ordering the guests around.'

Pio raised her eyebrows, 'Perhaps not forever, Cami. But it's working for today. Gives me a chance to put my feet up and relax.' She waved a hand to Beruthiel and motioned her over. 'A large mug of coffee, if you please.' The young Elf poured the brew with a certain flair and set it down nicely in front of Pio. Cami nodded to Pio, who winked at the young Elf and smiled, saying, 'Excellent technique, Beruthiel! I believe you have a a real talent as a Shire barrista. Carry on, my dear, your guests await you!

Pio overheard Barodir asking for the fastest way to Minas Anor. She motioned him to her table. 'Take the Great East Road to Bree and turn south on The Greenway. Ride hard and you will reach the Gap of Rohan in a fortnight. From there the Great West Road will take you down the Eastern flank of the Ered Nimrais and into Anorien from The Mark. Stay on the road and it will bring you directly to Minas Anor, or Minas Tirith as you Men call it now.'

[ January 04, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

theWhiteLady

01-04-2003, 01:31 PM

Laurie took a step back, quite afraid as the man in the hay began to thrash and shout. He sat up and was talking at her, but he didn't seem to really see who she was at first. Oh dear, I didn't mean to disturb him like this, she thought, alarmed. But he bent his head and after a moment began to speak again, this time in a much softer tone.

"I am sorry I did not mean to upset you in any way." He said to the woman who had woken him. "Please forgive me, and tell Pio to wake me at 10:00 to get ready for lunch." He smiled at her. "You only woke me from a harsh place I hope never to see again!" he said apologetically.

She curtsied and smiled weakly back. "Quite all right good sir, I'm sorry I disturbed you. I will be sure and give Pio your message." And with that she made a hasty retreat, grabbing a bale for the horses on her way down. That will teach me to bother in other people's business, Laurie thought.

She threw the hay into the stalls and found a grooming box on a shelf. She brushed each horse with short, deft strokes then picked out their hooves. It was quick work, Laurie had done it a hundred times before and it made her feel more at home. The disturbing scene up in the loft began to recede from her mind as she thought of Rohan.

She put the grooming box up and made her way back into the inn. There were still beds to be made... but all thoughts of chores fled as the aroma of sausage and eggs welcomed her back inside. She heard a voice call "Who wants some breakfast?" Laurie headed eagerly towards an empty table, making a detour over to the fire where Pio sat next to Cami.

"Pio, I shoveled the snow on the path outside and cleaned the barn. I was rather suprised to find a man in the hay loft, so I woke him up; I hope I wasn't wrong to do so. He was a little started, but told me to tell you he wanted to be woken at ten for lunch."

piosenniel

01-04-2003, 03:48 PM

'Have some breakfast, Laurie! You've done good work for the day. Relax now, enjoy yourself. I'll see to the guest in the hayloft later.' Pio watched as the Breakfast Brigade met the needs of the hungry patrons, and then sat down to enjoy the fruits of their labors themselves.

'Nothing like hard work, good food, and a little camaraderie to brighten up the atmosphere in the Green Dragon, eh Cami?!' She held her mug of coffee aloft, saluting the room.

An O! of surprise escaped her, and Cami leaned forward, groaning herself as her ribs protested the sudden movement. 'What's wrong, Pio?' she asked, her brow furrowing with worry.

Pio smiled in delight, and held her friend's hand firmly to her lower belly. 'Wrong? Nothing at all.' Cami grinned back at her, as she felt the frenzy of activity, secretly glad nothing was kicking at her sides like that.

'It's the twins, Cami. And they are quite awake!'

Merri

01-04-2003, 04:32 PM

Elanor sighed happily at the thought of a good breakfast. She put away all the cleaning materials and stood, glaring at Tom.

"It's a wonder how poor Miss Pio and Miss Cami put up with you," She said, for several times that morning, he had intentionally splashed water over her.

"Nobody asked them to," Tom replied gaily. "Come, Elanor, let's get some breakfast, and maybe you'll stop acting like a wronged hobbit then. Smell the food! How delicious!"

"You're a difficult hobbit to deal with, you know that Tom?"

"And you think you're any easier to deal with?"

The two hobbits might have allowed themselves to fall into a heated argument then, if it hadn't been for the fact that the smell of food was so strong.

"I don't want to argue until I've had some good, hearty breakfast," Elanor said firmly. "And then I'll argue all you want me to." Tom seemed about to retort indignantly, but then thought better of it.

excheeto

01-04-2003, 05:23 PM

The mood of the inn and the smell of eggs and bacon had put Belle in a lighter mood. Biffo had left at the first call of breakfast, but Belle wasn't quite finished with her toast.

She had seen Biffo staring outside, then arguing with a big person the others called Barodir."Whats this about the Shirriffs?"she whispered to herself, "well,never mind if it's coming from him,excuse me."

She nudged Beruthiel,"where's Tol, something else, but it starts with a Tol?" She talked louder as she walked by, tending to the growing demand for eggs. "Is it near the Shire? Does it have elves?".

"Oh"Beruthiel said,"it's very far from the Shire-you might want to watch your toast".

Being turned,Belle had dropped it. "Ack," she said, fishing the toast out,"well,maybe some like it crispy...hot!...maybe lots of jam can fix-got it." She placed the piece on top of the tray of toast, which was looking ready to take out."I'll be back in a minute," she said,looking back at Beruthiel.

Belle walked out with the tray of toast."Nice,crunchy toast!Whose first?"
She walked towards Tom and Elanor who were the first to look over.

[ January 04, 2003: Message edited by: excheeto ]

[ January 04, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Child of the 7th Age

01-04-2003, 05:53 PM

Cami glared over at her stubborn friend, and grinned, "Not even born yet, and, like you, they already have strong opinions on life. Why am I not surprised?"

"But I am concerned. When is the last time you consulted with a healer Don't tell me you are an Elf, and need not bother with such things. Those children bear the blood of three races. Only one part of them is Elven."

"You are greatly concerned with running about and taking care of everyone else in this Inn! I fear you are forgetting that your little ones need some care too. Perhaps, the common sense hobbit part of their brains is squeeling for mercy, begging their mother to sit down and take a rest."

With some difficulty, Cami pushed another chair over and gently guided her friend into it. She knew she could get away with that for only a short while, and that, within a space of minutes, the Elf would likely find some pretense to be up and about again. Still, it was good to see her resting by the fire.

Cami barked out orders, "You there, Nuru, could you save one of the breakfast plates for Miss Pio. And make sure it is a big one. She has a hearty appetite as she is eating for herself and two others as well."

A few stared in their direction with raised eyebrows and strange looks. The Lonely Star was docked far away in Gondor and its tales were not known to most of the visitors at the Inn.

As the two women shared a moment near the blazing hearthfire, Cami laughed and reached over to poke her friend. "Look at us. We have sailed the Seas to great adventure, even consorting with Elves and Maia from the West, yet here we sit in an Inn of the Shire scratching our heads to figure out how best to run it, and to keep everyone both happy and content. I would almost swear this is the most difficult task we've had. Ah, the strange ways of life!"

Everdawn

01-04-2003, 08:32 PM

SAVED for edited post

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Carrûn

01-04-2003, 10:11 PM

Quiet footsteps echo outside as the weary traveler makes his way along the beaten path. A dark and weathered man, old in appearence but with bright eyes betraying his age gradually make his was towards the door. His eyes reflect wisdom, yet betray a great inner turmoil.

...

Dark have my travels been and hard has been the path I have chosen for myself. But no matter how difficult or dangerous I can never forgive myself, the pain, anger and loss I will forever feel throughout the rest of my days.

The hunt, the joy of the kill, and then the return. My village burned, my people dead or taken. The house dances like kindling before my eyes and then the image that I am forever seeing. My wife. The hand of my unborn child reaching out to me....I struggle to push the moment behind me, it is to painful to continue. Never again will I risk attaching myself to ones I love for I cannot bear for the same fate to befall them. The failed chieftain need a drink, I need to forget at least for a time the misery I am in.

Slowely I open the door and walk inside, drawing my cloak around me.

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

theWhiteLady

01-04-2003, 10:21 PM

Laurie walked quickly over to the hobbit bearing a tray laden with toast and took two slices. Eggs, bacon, and other delicious breakfast food was brought soon by a another helper from the kitchen, as well as a warm cup of tea made just the way she liked. Laurie sat down at a table set apart from the rest and watched the motley band of customers as she ate.

The door of the inn creaked upon once again, and a man entered. His shoulders were slumped as from carrying a heavy load but Laurie caught the glitter of bright eyes as he looked around. She felt pity for him, though she knew not why, and her eyes followed him movements with interest.

[ January 04, 2003: Message edited by: theWhiteLady ]

Orual

01-04-2003, 10:38 PM

Rie broke into a huge smile when she heard Cami's comment about Pio "eating for herself and two others as well." Twins! How wonderful! Despite the moaning Rie's mother did with her friends about her "terrible twins," Rie and Talômi had great fun together, and her fondest memories were of her adventures with her twin. She'd have to remember to congratulate Pio the next time she talked to her.

She was only half thinking about the toast she was making, nearly burning it before she snapped back to the present. A faint acrid smell drifted up from the pan before Rie stopped daydreaming. "Bâ!" she shouted, hurriedly flipping the toast off of the pan and into a plate. "Bâ! Ah, I'm so stupid! Where was my brain?" She checked the pan, and it wasn't burnt, so she was able to laugh it off.

She saw a newcomer enter the Inn, an old man with the haunted look in his eyes she had seen so many times. Her laughter died, and she shook her head. "So much pain," she said quietly, going back to concentrating on her toast.

Maiden of the Sky

01-05-2003, 02:31 AM

A little hobbit by the name of Belladona walked into the inn. There was a smell of toast coming out of the kitchen while other hobbits as well as elves, to Bella's surprise, were cooking, cleaning, doing all sorts. A tall man was walking in front of her, looked like he was new as well.

Bella looked around for a seat and found one next to a window. An elf was walking around pouring tea. She waved to the elf, asked for a cup with two spoons of sugar and milk, just how she liked it. 'Strange seeing so many elven folk here nevermind them working as well' she thought to her self, sipping the tea. Although Bella hadn't been to this particular inn before, she had been to others.

Feeling a bit hungry she decided to look around the kitchen and see if she could get some nice toast with maybe a fried egg. Walking into the kitchen she saw someone making some toast, looking a litle troubled. 'Hi there! My names Belladonna, mind if I ask where I could get some toast?.'

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: Maiden of the Sky ]

Everdawn

01-05-2003, 02:58 AM

SAVED for edited post

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Child of the 7th Age

01-05-2003, 05:36 AM

Cami's side was feeling a wee bit better. She managed to find a tall stool near the entrance to the kitchen and perch herself on top. It was an excellent vantage point so she could keep an eye on the hobbits and Elves who were doing the cooking as well as those who were just coming into the Inn.

She also began looking at the supplies in the larder which, in some instances, were running dangerously low. There's been an unprecendented number of breakfast orders which had made a decided dent in some of their provisions.

She scribbled out a note to Laurie and had Rie drop it by her table. It read:

Dear Miss Laurie,

Take your time with breakfast, but when you finish, please ride your pony over to Farmer Maggott's burrow, and see if he has a few dozen eggs, a sack of flour, or a rasher of bacon he can spare. Our supplies are getting low, and I'd hoped to bake a cake for this evening.

Just take a few coins from the till to pay for it, or offer him some meals at the Inn, whichever he'd prefer.

Mistress Cami

She also glimpsed one new visitor, a hobbit woman, walking towards her and asking for breakfast who introduced herself as Belladonna. Cami looked up curiously at her and asked, "With a name like that, you wouldn't happen to be a Took, would you now?"

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Barodir

01-05-2003, 10:48 AM

Barodir was still in need of a fast way to get to Minas Tirith, when Pio said to him:

"Take the Great East Road to Bree and turn south on The Greenway. Ride hard and you will reach the Gap of Rohan in a fortnight. From there the Great West Road will take you down the Eastern flank of the Ered Nimrais and into Anorien from The Mark. Stay on the road and it will bring you directly to Minas Anor, or Minas Tirith as you Men call it now."

Barodir cursed himself for not remembering this way. "Thank you. I shall leave by mid day."

He then sat down as an old man walked in and sat near him. As he was waiting for breakfast, a halfling entered as well.

"This must be the only inn in all the area. It seems like the entire populous is coming." he said to himself. Finally, breakfast was prepared and he went to go get some well deserved food after a rough night.

Carrûn

01-05-2003, 11:32 AM

The weathered man took in the proceedings as he entered the Inn, noticing with some amusement the many stares in his direction albit they tried to hide them.

Old indeed I must seem to them. I wish I was old, for then peace would be closer.

The man worked his way over to a bench near the fire and sat down next to another. The fire glinted off of his green eyes beneath his dark hair and for a brief moment revealed a jagged scar along the side of his face.

It is a constant reminder to me of my failure.

So many races all together here. A welcome change from my travels.

Food can wait. I need a pipe and then sleep.

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

theWhiteLady

01-05-2003, 01:09 PM

A little hobbit lass dropped a note by Laurie's table just as she was finished off a batch of eggs. She skimmed it quickly, then rose, draining the last of her tea. She walked by where the man with the bright eyes was standing and gave him what she hoped was a welcoming smile.

Out the door and into the barn Laurie strode. She grabbed her saddle and bridle she had laid aside the night before. Nell swung her head over the stall door and watched Laurie approach with trepidation. Laurie could read her horse's thoughts perfectly. "Ah no, not again, just when we find somewhere comfortable to stay, she wants to leave again." Laurie laughed and kissed Nell on her soft, brown nose. "We're just running a quick errand, it won't take long." Nell nudged her fondly on the shoulder, and Laurie entered the stall. She threw on the saddle and pulled the bridle on, pulling Nell's short forelock over the headband. She mounted, adjusting her white dress around her before nudging her faithful horse into a fast trot down the snowy road.

Orual

01-05-2003, 01:31 PM

Rie came back to the kitchen after dropping Cami's note off to Laurie and went back to her toast, paying close attention to it. She didn't want to make the same mistake twice.

'Hi there! My names Belladonna, mind if I ask where I could get some toast?.'

Rie startled a little bit; she had been concentrating totally on her toast this time, not being a girl very adept at doing more than one thing at once. "Oh, of course!" she said, and, just to show off, she flipped two slices of toast onto a plate held in her left hand. Her trick went a little awry and she almost dropped the plate, but with a comical face and a little twisting motion of her arm she managed to save it. She smiled brightly at Belladonna and handed her the plate. "No problem."

piosenniel

01-05-2003, 02:29 PM

'Ah!' she thought, watching the hustle and bustle of the Inn. 'This is nice - sitting here, my feet up, a nice cup of tea, and watching the Inn run so smoothly.' Pio poured a little more tea from the pot into her mug, smiling appreciatively as the warm vapors assailed her nose.

Cami, seemed to be feeling better today, and she was making lists and writing notes - a thoroughly efficient Hobbit! Laurie had been sent off to see Farmer Maggot - a thoroughly enjoyable fellow, in Pio's opinion. Always had interesting bits of new to share.

It was almost time to wake up the guest in the hayloft. Pio got up, reluctantly, from her chair and headed toward the door, intending to go to the stable. On her way she passed the Man from Gondor. 'I'll have one of the stable hands see that your mount is groomed, bridled, and saddled for you. Mid-day, you said?.' He shook his head 'yes'. 'If I don't see you before that then - have a safe and, dare I wish it, peaceful trip!'

Nurumaiel

01-05-2003, 03:13 PM

Nuru raced back to the kitchen and began cracking more eggs. She'd never seen so many hungry hobbits -as well as elves, dwarves, and men, but hobbits were the majority of the hungry- in her life! She found Rie with a plate of golden toast and cooking some more.

"If you don't mind," Nuru said, grabbing a piece of toast. "I haven't had any breakfast. Want some egg and sausage?"

"Yes, please," replied Rie. "Though I doubt if we'll find time to eat it."

"Oh, if you're like me, you'll be able to eat while cooking. It just takes skill." With a wink, Nuru put two plates of eggs and sausage down in front of Rie. "I'll cook ours. Meanwhile bring that to Pio, if you wouldn't mind too much."

"Of course not!" Rie smiled, taking the plates. "But what about the toast?"

"I'll take care of the toast while you're gone," said Nuru, "and when you come back I'll have some breakfast for ourselves ready. And while you're giving those to Pio," Nuru added as Rie left the kitchen, "make sure to tell her to rest for awhile. We can handle the kitchen!"

excheeto

01-05-2003, 03:55 PM

Belle overheard Cami and the new visitor.Her tray being empty,she walked over and took a seat beside them.'I'll see about the Tol buisness later'she thought.She was known for loving good conversations,especially small talk and gossip.

"Hello"she said to the visitor,"my names Belladonna too,but everyone calls me Belle,my mother named me after one of her neices,you wouldn't know about her would you?I've never met anyone with my name before".She lowered her voice to mention how her mother named her.She had always heard strange stories about the Tooks,and didn't often tell people she was closely related to them(in more ways than three in fact).

Her friends sometimes teased her about acting 'Tookish',but that side of the family rarely came to this side of the Shire,so she hadn't met enough to really understand what 'Tookish' meant.

"I'm not a Took" the other Belladonna said,"I'm a Headstrong"
"just as well"Belle smiled,"I'm a Proudfoot"

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: excheeto ]

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: excheeto ]

Yavanna Kementari

01-05-2003, 04:01 PM

Belladona Headstrong walked through the door. She was wearing a beautiful pink and white dress that buttoned in a cuff around her neck. She smelled like a fresh bouquet of sunflowers and roses. Her waist lenghth,blonde curly hair was up in a bun, except for a few curly tendrils that always seemed to escape. And she carried a matching parasole that hung by the handle around her wrist, and a hand bag that matched as well hung around her arm.

Belladona had not been to the Green Dragon before, so she decided to stop in.

Pipperin

01-05-2003, 05:08 PM

The door opened and a hobbit lass strode into the inn, a broad smile covering her face. She walked across the room and sat down at the bar infront of the lady that was there.

"Do you make breakfast here?" she asked. "I've come from tookborough to visit some friends of mine down here so im not too familiar with any of the inns and such. It has been a long night, with only a bit of sleep and food, im parched."

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: Pipperin ]

Nurumaiel

01-05-2003, 05:15 PM

Nuru saw the hobbit lass step into the inn and ask for breakfast. Snatching up a plate and filling it with eggs, sausage, and toast, the Elf hurried out and approached the lass standing at the counter.

"Here's some breakfast, maid," she said, smiling. "You look hungry. If you'd like something to drink as well just call me." Bringing her voice down so Pio wouldn't hear her, she added, "We're giving Miss Pio over there a rest. She's been running about for ever so long, and she's exhausted. Find a seat and enjoy the inn."

That being said, Nuru raced back to the kitchen to save the toast from being burnt, winking at Rie and Pio as she passed.

Barodir

01-05-2003, 05:38 PM

Barodir was sitting at a table (tending to his wounds, for his arm was agitating him once more) near the old man who had just entered. He looked to be a man who had seen much in his prime, for he had a scar on his face that only a warrior could have gotten.

He carefully asked "Good sir, are you of Gondor?" The man seemed to not hear him. "Are you of Gondor, old man?" The man still didn't stir. "Old senile fool," Barodir mumbled. He then left the man alone.

Barodir then saw Pio leaving the inn. She turned towards him and said:

"I'll have one of the stable hands see that your mount is groomed, bridled, and saddled for you. Mid-day, you said?.

Barodir nodded his head and she said:

"If I don't see you before that then - have a safe and, dare I wish it, peaceful trip!" . She then left.

It was then that Barodir went up to where food was being served. "Do you have any toast. Five slices is all I need..."

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: Barodir ]

Carrûn

01-05-2003, 06:02 PM

Good Sir are you of Gonder?

The "old" man stirred slightly but did not respond.

Am I from Gondor? Where am I from? Born to a nomad I have never lived in a single spot for more than a year. Yet the ring my father used to wear on his right hand was said to have come from that country.

Are you of Gondor, old man?

How would an old man respond? I wish I knew.

The bright-eyed man sat in silence as the man next to him arose mumbling and left.

I suppose that could be considered rude. he laughed softly to himself as if enjoying some inside joke.

I cannot stay here long. A few days maybe and then I must be off looking for work. Though perhaps non are looking for swords and bows these days.

The "old" man sat in silence watching the embers of the fire. He seldom ate more than once a day but the smells from the kitchen were beginning to arouse his stomach.

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

Merri

01-05-2003, 06:14 PM

"Do you have any toast. Five slices is all I need..."

"Five!" Elanor gasped out loud before she could restrain herself, then she remembered that she was a hobbit, and therefore was in no way qualified to comment on how much another man ate. "I'm quite sorry, good sir- I didn't mean to- show such cheek- it's just that, I suppose I haven't been in the company of other hobbits often enough . . . you see, books don't eat much and-" she fell silent, blushing. She was talking nonsense, and she knew that.

It's just like mother says, she chided herself. All diseases come from the mouth, and you're going to get a mighty big one if you don't stop talking.

Orual

01-05-2003, 07:07 PM

Rie picked up both plates and, after taking a moment to balance one on each hand, walked out of the kitchen. The promise of breakfast upon her return was sounding pretty good. Her stomach had just now taken to reminding her that she hadn't eaten yet.

Rie caught Pio as she was heading out the door. "Nurumaiel says to tell you to relax, that we've got the kitchen under control," the redhead reported with a smile, "and to rest. And from me, congratulations...twins are quite wonderful, in my humble opinion." Rie laughed. "Now, where are you going? Nuru was just telling me to bring you breakfast, and you're leaving. Would you like me to go for you, wherever it is you're headed? You really ought to be resting and eating. You'll have little enough time for yourself once the twins are born!"

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: Orual ]

Beruthiel

01-05-2003, 07:25 PM

Beruthiel had been pouring tea for a good many people and was becoming a little tired of it. 'Wonder if I could have a break at see if I can find my poor horse.' She had totally forgotten about him and was feeling reather guilty about not going to see him.

'Pio, would you mind if I take a break and see how my horse is doing? I won't be long.' she asked Pio.
'Oh yes ofcourse Beruthiel, the stables are outside round the back.'
'Thanks, oh and by the way, you can just call me Ruth.'

She walked outside and towards the stables. Inside were many horses, walking along she finally found her beautiful grey stallion names Lidiac, or just Lid as she liked to call him. 'Well Lid, sorry I haven't been out to see you' she said staring into Lid's black eyes. 'We've been a long way together haven't we? At least you've had some rest and food. I can't stay long, I promised to help out in the inn, pouring tea you know!' she said laughing to herself, thinking about what her old friends would have said if they knew what she was doing. 'Its good to know that you are alright, I'll come out to see you again soon.' She then left the stables and headed back to the inn.

[ January 05, 2003: Message edited by: Beruthiel ]

Yavanna Kementari

01-05-2003, 09:12 PM

"Thank you,ma'am."

Belladona walked to a table and sat herself down. She mostly ignored everything that was going on for the moment. Breakfast was her favorite meal, next to second breakfast.

"Delicious," she said smiling to herself to herself," simply marvelous." She sat for a moment blessing those that had made her meal for her,and takingin the scent of freshly cooked eggs and sausage and toast.
The heavy scent of sausage grease filled the air and the hint of a few burned pieces of toast made her Hungry enough to eat as fast as a young Hobbit lad.
"Oh This is so good!!" she said to herself again. She finished eating the last piece of sausage on her plate and dabbed each corner of her mouth a few times and piled the silverware and napkin onto her plate.

After she did this she stood up and walked up to the bar to return her plate.

A young Hobbit lass took her plate.

" You didn't have to bring the plate up I would have come and got it." Nuru said.

" Please call me Dona," the young lass smiled at Nuru. "It looks like you could use a hand," Dona said looking around the Inn.
"Please let me help."

Everdawn

01-05-2003, 11:35 PM

Umbria the elf grew cold and once again raised the hood of her cloak. And then she thought to herself:
What is taking Niquinion so long? has he met peril along his way?.. no, impossible, there are to many rangers to let evil happenings occur.. i can only wait..

For a while she stared after the strange man who like herself, kept alone by the fire. After a while she spoke to him, "You are so troubled, my heart is made sad by your sight, what happened to make you so?"

[ January 06, 2003: Message edited by: Everdawn ]

piosenniel

01-06-2003, 03:42 AM

Notice of New Game Opening

Nurumaiel invites you to come to the discussion thread for the opening of her RPG - The Hobbit's Gift!

Read the description of the game, work up a character, and post it on the discussion thread.

Remember: All posts in the Shire must follow The Red Book of Westmarch Rulebook - so please read it if you intend to play in this game.

doug*platypus

01-06-2003, 06:25 AM

After he had finished his toast, Biffo the Hobbit sighed contentedly, and mentally notched up two more wonderful breakfasts enjoyed in the comfort of The Shire. His was truly a blessed life. He could see through the somewhat grimy windows of the Common Room that the leaden sky of the morning had opened up a little, and a clear and crisp winter's day was on the way.

Bidding farewell to his cousin Belle, and to the Elf-maid Beruthiel, Biffo stood up and ambled his way towards the door.

"Thank you kindly!" he called over towards the innkeeper and those of her staff not too busy to notice. He smiled at any of the patrons who looked his way, and even nodded a curt farewell to the Warrior of Minas Tirith. Biffo planned to walk about Bywater a bit, maybe even up towards Hobbiton or The Hill. It was a nice part of The Shire, here. Unsure if he would return that evening, or whether some other idea would present itself, the Hobbit plucked his pipe from his breeches as he opened the door and strolled out into the sunlight.

Carrûn

01-06-2003, 09:35 AM

You are so troubled, my heart is made sad by your sight, what happened to make you so?"

Do I look so troubled? I suppose my appearance does betray me; I have been thinking about the past to much as of late. Or perhaps this elf has some gift of perception beyond mortal men. If it is so then I must be more careful with my thoughts.

The bright-eyed man seemed at first not to hear Umbria's question. Then slowly, almost as if the words were being forced out of his mouth he said:

"Much..."

The green of his eyes flashed momentarily and he lowered his head as if fighting off some internal struggle. For a time he sat smoking in silence as Umbria waited. When he raised his head again a tinge of red was showing in his eyes, but it was more of anger than sorrow.

"You could say I lost all that matters most to a man."

He looked intently into her eyes hoping to communicate silently that which he had swore never to discuss aloud with another person.

[ January 06, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

theWhiteLady

01-06-2003, 09:56 AM

Birds sang merrily in the trees that hung their bare boughs over the road. Though it was winter, Laurie could imagine how beautiful this countryside would be in the summer. And the people seem nearly as pleasant as their land Laurie mused. Just awhile back, she had stopped a young hobbit lass to ask directions to Farmer Maggot's farm. (She was certain of the direction in which it lay, but did not know the exact location.) The hobbit child had been more than helpful, giving clear instructions through many ill-concealed giggles. Laurie smiled to remember her, it was obvious she had never seen any of the Big Folk before.

A big, wooden gate opened out from the stone hedge that had been following the road and Laurie turned Nell into the lane beyond. They had traveled but a few steps when a tremendous baying sounded out and two very ferocious dogs loped into view, moving straight towards them. Nell danced nervously on the spot, and Laurie, looking around for help, saw a rather thick-set hobbit striding towards them bearing a pitchfork.

"Ay, and who might you be?" He inquired, watching Laurie struggle to control Nell.

arelendil

01-06-2003, 01:44 PM

Elwen had retreated back to her window after no one had replied to her question, to watch the setting of the last stars.

Elwen sighed and glanced around the room, the pub had spang back to life. The stars had all faded and now so must she. Elwen under curled her feet from beneath her and stepped, nimble and silent to the door. She pulled her cloak from the nearby peg and swang it round herself. Elwen pushed her dark hair in to place, running her fingers over the gems burning white and blue against the dark.

"Soronume said I had strength and now I must find it for myself." Elwen whispered half to herself. "But that can not be done here." With one last glance around the room she would not see again for along time. Elwen left the Green Dragon Inn. Walking quickly down the path, Elwen called to her white horse, Rochel. The gentle horse ran swiftly over, delighted to be on a journey again. Elwen swang up onto his back, no reins would the horse bare but Elwen knew he would never let her fall.

"We ride to find adventure and lost hope." Elwen whispered to the horse stroking his flank. "Noro lim Rochel, Noro lim."

Away she flew from the Inn never once looking back.

piosenniel

01-06-2003, 02:52 PM

Pio waved to the exiting Elf, wondering if she would ever see her again. So many newcomers coming through the Shire, she mused. ‘I wonder if she’s heading West. With all these Elves that have found the Green Dragon, I hope that Círdan has brought a few extra ships for their transport.’

The babies were restless, and she moved into a more comfortable position on her chair. ‘No,’ she said to them, placing her hand protectively over them, ‘we are not bound for Valinor. Your ammë, has chosen another course for herself, and for you.’ They quieted at her thoughts, returning to their baby dreamings.

Rie had graciously offered to wake the guest in the stable, and Pio waved her on, grateful to be sitting with nothing to see to. Her survey of the room took in the figure of a weathered man seated near the other end of the hearth, talking with one of the other guests. Dark haired, green eyed, battle scarred. A sell-sword, she wondered. An Old One by the look of him. He seemed amused at the questions from the two that had approached him. Though now his features hinted at some darker thoughts.

He glanced her way, and she nodded her head to him in acknowledgement. ‘I should go speak with him. Be a good host.’ she thought. The warmth of the fire drove those thoughts from her head. ‘Let him come to me, if he wishes. Secrets are best waited for. Easier than trying to pry them out.’

Calling to a passing server, she took her pouch of Southern Star from off her belt. ‘Take this to that gentleman down there.’ She motioned with her chin. ‘See if he would like a pipeful of the Shire’s finest. Bring him a glass of Dorwinion wine, too. It will ease his troubles, though not banish them.’

piosenniel

01-06-2003, 03:01 PM

***** Notice of New Game Opening *****

Nurumaiel invites you to come to the discussion thread for the opening of her RPG - The Hobbit's Gift!

Read the description of the game, work up a character, and post it on the discussion thread.

Remember: All posts in the Shire must follow The Red Book of Westmarch Rulebook - so please read it if you intend to play in this game.

[ January 06, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Everdawn

01-06-2003, 04:46 PM

Umbria looked into the man's eyes and suddenly she understood. "I do not know much of mortal need and happiness, now I understand" Umbria Bowed her head.

"you are correct, I do have a gift of perception, whether I would call it a gift, rather than a curse, well, that is another matter" she smiled "there are many troubled men here"

She picked up the papers she had been writing in the elven script for hours and threw them into the fire. "do you have a name?" she asked.

theWhiteLady

01-06-2003, 05:32 PM

Laurie shouted to be heard over the raucous baying of the hounds.

"I am come from the Green Dragon; Pio, the innkeeper sent me!"

A light lit in Farmer Maggot's eyes as he recognized the innkeeper's name.
"Down, Wolf! I said back, Fang!" He shouted and a glare from his shrewd eyes made them cease their barking. "Hallo, I'm Farmer Maggot though you seem to already know that. And what might be your name?"

Laurie steadied Nell and dismounted carefully, adjusting the folds of her dress. "My name is Laurie, and I am of Rohan." The lady in white smiled and made a cursy. "Pio sent me to aquire certain provisions for the inn."

"Fine, fine. And how is Pio?" Farmer Maggot began to walk up the lane towards a cozy, brick house, Wolf and Fang skulking behind. Laurie talked as she followed, leading Nell by the reins.
"She is doing very well, I believe. There have been an incredible number of guests at the inn of late, I myself only arrived last night. Pio has been running ragged tendng to them all, which is one of the reasons it has been arranged that I should help out for awhile."

The stout hobbit nodded sagely. "There have been many travelers on the road. And the Rangers have had trouble keeping the wild creatures in check. All this activity, and in the quiet Shire! Who knows what it may all forbode..." His voice trailed off and they walked in silence until they reached the house. Farmer Maggot beckoned to a young boy playing with yet another ferocious-looking dog.
"Come and hold Laurie's horse for her."
Farmer Maggot opened a wooden door set into the foundation of the house and Laurie followed him inside, ducking under the low doorframe.

It was dim and there was an earthy smell. "This is the larder," Maggot grunted. "What kinds of provisions did Pio say she needed?" Laurie listed off several items and the runsack she had taken from the saddle was soon bulging.

They emerged back into the light and Laurie threw the sack over her saddle. "Pio gave me coins to pay you with, or you could come to the Inn for a few meals instead." Farmer Maggot grinned but took the coins. "It has been busy here as well, it may be awhile before I am able to visit the Green Dragon again. It was nice meeting you, Laurie. Send my regards to Pio." Laurie curtsied once more before mounting Nell and thanking the hobbit child who had been holding her horse. She turned and cantered quickly down the lane and onto the road.

Carrûn

01-06-2003, 06:33 PM

"I do not know much of mortal need and happiness, now I understand"

Do you? The weathered main thought with some bitterness, then quickly pushed the thought from his mind. She had touched a nerve without perhaps knowing it, but it was no fault of hers. Besides, apart from an occasional chat with a Ranger this was the longest conversation he had had in nearly a year. He nodded in agreement to her statement about troubled men and again fell into silence as she picked up several papers and threw them into the fire. He briefly glanced up to notice whom he assumed to be the Innkeeper looking in his direction. Hopefuly she did not regard him as a threat. Who am I kidding? he thought to himself in sudden black mirth as he looked around at the other patrons. She nodded towards him and he gave a rather weak attempt at a smile in return. He accepted the wine & pipeweed from the server who had just approached him with thanks. He typically preferred his own leaf but saw no need to kick an apparent act of kindness in the teeth. The wine was a welcome change however.

After a time the elf lady spoke again.

"Do you have a name?"

When he replied it was in his typical manner.

"You may call me Awyrgan"

It was the name he had chosen for himself and the one he gave in the few situations it was required of him. He unconciously brought a hand up to his face, touching the strange scar. In doing so his cloak shifted, revealing a sword. The moment passed & he pulled his garmet back around himself, covering the glint of steel.

[ January 06, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

Brooke624

01-06-2003, 06:35 PM

*A small blonde haired and blue eyed Hobbit walks into the town with a small bag next to her. She smiles to you as she places her little bag down.*
"Hello," she say in a solf voice. "I am Rosamunda Whitfoot from Whitfurrows. Thats just down the path a few paces. You can call me Rosa for short Rosamunda is a awful lot to remember."
*She straighten out her blue dress and then looks back to you.*

"As I said before I am new to town. I have read over you town rules (FAQ) and I seem to have a good understanding of who's who and whats what. however, i'm not sure how to work things or a good spot to go. Anyone know of a good hole thats up for sale? I think I might be spending some time here."

*She smiles and waits for an answer.*

Beruthiel

01-06-2003, 07:12 PM

'Nice to meet you Rosa.I'm Beruthiel of Mirkwood, but you can call me Ruth, my name's quite a mouthful as well. I really can't help you with the hobbit holes, I've only been here one night. I can help you with some tea though, would you like some?' Ruth asked the newcomer. Rosa straigtened out her little blue dress and replied 'Thats alright thanks, lovely to meet you too. If you've only been here a night, what on earth are you doing pouring tea?.' Rosa had a worried look on her face, thinking that all the guests had to do chores at this inn.

'Well, miss Pio, the inn keeper here, asked me too and I owe her a favour since she let me stay here without question.' She said smiling at the young hobbit and easing Rosa's fears a little.

Ruth looked around the inn, an elf had just left and a man with green eyes was sitting hunched on the other side of the room. There was something about him that made Ruth take a second look. He had been through some rough times for sure, his weather stained cloak, muddy boots as well as a notched sword hanging at his side indicated so.

Orual

01-06-2003, 07:18 PM

After Rie had given the plates to Pio and made sure that she was relaxing (she took her responsibility to carry out Nuru's orders quite seriously), she made her way out of the inn, stopping briefly to swipe a piece of toast from the kitchen. She ate it quickly, just to quiet her stomach.

"After this I'll get some breakfast," she promised herself.

The stable was not far off, and it took Rie hardly any time to get there. Finding the sleeping guest was another matter, though--and the fact that Rie felt compelled to look at every horse in the stable didn't help. But finally she found him, curled up in a corner and asleep.

"If it isn't our bard," Rie said softly, kneeling by the sleeping figure. "Sir?"

The man stirred, but seemed reluctant to awake. "Sir, it's ten, and you had asked to be woken in time to prepare for lunch. Would you like some more time to sleep? I could come back later."

excheeto

01-06-2003, 07:32 PM

Belle saw the newcomer,and overheard something about house hunting. She knew a few places that might be empty soon, as well as the stories behind them. She sat down as the newcomer straightened her dress.

"Hello,I'm Belle. There's a place that will be empty soon around Bagshot Row. The couple there,Marigold and Bari Maggot, want to move away from there. They're offering a bargain for the hole, but if you had their neighbors, well, you would too. But it's a very nice hole."

"Let's see. There's also a place on Girdley Island, but thats over on the Brandywine. Poor Crystal,at least I think that's what her name was, they said her son Hob, he's a Brandybuck you know, was playing with candles and set the whole hole on fire! They're selling it now and getting a smaller house.

"If you want a place closer to here though, my friend Rowan said that her cousin Marroc decided to move into his wife's house in Oatbarten. He has a place near here in Frogmorten he's selling, though why he would do that and go that far north for a Boffin, I don't know, but thats your best choice there"

[ January 06, 2003: Message edited by: excheeto ]

[ January 07, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Nurumaiel

01-06-2003, 08:09 PM

"Well!" said Nuru, sighing. "Breakfast is almost taken care of. Just one more platter of eggs to make, and then... I'm done! Until lunch, that is. Why am I even working here?" she added with a little groan, though not actually meaning it. There was nothing she'd rather be doing than helping Pio and the other innkeepers out in their busy job.

Just then a small head covered with brown curls appeared at the side of the door. "Is this a kitchen?" said a voice.

"Why, yes, it is," said Nuru, quite surprised.

"Good." A hobbit girl, looking no more than ten years of age, walked into the kitchen and approached Nurumaiel. "I'd like something to eat, please."

"All right," said Nuru, "but what's a young girl like yourself doing at an inn?"

"Is there anything wrong with it?" the girl said, looking defiant.

"That's up to your parents, I suppose," said Nuru. "But if I had a girl of your age I certainly wouldn't let her in an inn that can sometimes be dangerous."

"Well, I haven't any parents," said the hobbit girl. "And I'm not afraid of any danger. What kind of danger do you have here, anyway?"

"To tell you the truth, we don't have that much danger, though one man here came back pretty hurt."

The girl ignored that comment from Nuru and said, "I'd like some breakfast, please."

"First tell me your name," said Nuru in a demanding voice, but her eyes were sparkling.

"I don't need to tell you my name, because you're laughing inside and would give me breakfast anyway, but my name is Donnamira, though most just call me Don."

"Well, Don, here's your breakfast. But stay here in the kitchen. I don't know how safe it is for a girl of your young age in the common room."

"I could go out into the common room if I wanted to, but since you asked me not to I guess you won't." There was a pause, as if the girl was thinking over what she had just said. "Actually, if I had wanted to go to the common room I'd go whether you asked or not. But you seem nice enough so I'll just stay here."

Nuru was rather surprised at how rebellious this child was. A regular little queen, she thought. But what can I expect, her not being raised by anyone? After things quiet down here I'll see if I can get anything more out of her. For some reason I think Rie is going to get along really well with this young girl. It just seems like she's the type of girl Rie'd like... and Rie's the type of person Don would like.

Everdawn

01-06-2003, 08:49 PM

Umbria looked out a window, thinking about her kinsman who was to meet her in the Green Dragon. She spoke again "It does seem like we are waiting a long time during these passing days".

She looked into the fire where her papers were burning. "it took me 30 hours to write those documents, but in all ends they are not worth reading" She took from her napsack a map and started glazing over it. Suddenly she looked up in realization "Im famished, come to think of it I have not eaten in almost a week, how could that possibly happen?"

Carrûn

01-06-2003, 10:01 PM

"It does seem like we are waiting a long time during these passing days."

"My life has been more one of wandering than waiting," Awyrgan remarked. "Yet I know how it is to devote much energy to a task only to have it come to naught."

"You are well travelled yourself I asume?" He inquired.

[ January 06, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

Yavanna Kementari

01-06-2003, 10:25 PM

"Oh well I see that breakfast is almost over,"said Belladona, " But I'll tell ya what, Let me stay a night tonight at the inn tonight an I'll help you do lunch, dinner and tomorrows breakfast!" Can you do that lass?" She said to Nuru in a small cheery voice. "Oh it looks like we've one got more coming in." Dona smiled at the young hobbit that walked through the door and right up to the bar. She listened to the converstion the youngin had with Nuru. " She reminds me a bit of me when I was a wee lass," Dona whispered to herself. " Nuru Lunch won't be for a while I'll watch over this young spark for ya." She said it low and hushed so as not to make the young hobbit lass feel like she was being mothered. " Just holler for me when you need some help."

Dona walked behind the little one as she picked a table. "Ya mind if I have a seat?"
Dona said to the girl. The girl said nothing.

piosenniel

01-07-2003, 01:22 AM

Pio sat back in her chair, her eyes cast down low, gazing, it appeared, into the depths of her mug. From beneath her long dark lashes, her eyes tracked the movements of the scar-faced man. She had watched him as he reached to touch the scar. His cloak had shifted and the glint of his blade caught the light for a brief moment.

The Elf rubbed the back of her neck, wishing that all bladed trouble would pass the Inn on by. Rising to her feet, she went to the back room, behind the bar, and found a small unopened bottle of choice, red wine from the Southern lands. Wiping the dust from the bottle, she opened it and brought it, two extra glasses, and a plate of sliced fruit to the table where he sat talking with Umbria.

‘I have been remiss in my duties as a good host.’ she said, placing the plate of fruit between the two. A clean glass she placed in front of the Elf. ‘Welcome to our peaceful establishment.’ She smiled at both of them. ‘My name is Piosenniel, innkeeper for the while as you can see.’

She poured a glass of wine for the Elf and another for the man. The last glass was for her and she poured only a small amount of the blood red liquid into it, cutting it with water. It was redolent of grapes and plums,wild berries and the darker tastes of the wooded barrels in which it had been made.

Pio drank to the continued good health of the two before her, and sat her glass carefully on the table. Her right hand reached beneath the sleeve of her tunic, and with a soft snick! the double edged knife slid out from the scabbard on her forearm. Daintily hoisting a slice of Winter’s apple on the blade’s sharp point she offered it to the surprised Elf, who declined it.

‘And you, good sir,’ she said offering the piece to him, ‘do you care to try a tasty treat from off my blade?’

Everdawn

01-07-2003, 01:46 AM

Umbria sat before Piosenniel and Awyrgan. She thanked the innkeeper before answering the traveler

"Well yes, I have traveled all over Middle- earth, My mother is kinswoman to Celeborn of Lorien, my father, a Guard of king Thranduial. I myself was born in Lothlorien. Many years I have been travelling and documenting and passing advice to the Prince of Dol Amroth."

She looked uneasy "This well explains my garb." she gestured to her elaborate and grand elven dress "Not something you would expect a traveller to wear?" she smiled.

"I am waiting here for word from my kinsman on certain matters, but he has been two days late."

Umbria turned to Piosenniel "How does an Elf come to be in the Shire?"

[ January 07, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Carrûn

01-07-2003, 09:49 AM

‘My name is Piosenniel, innkeeper for the while as you can see.’

Awyrgan thanked her for the wine. It was better than his last glass, all the same he was glad she had watered it down. This would be his last for the day before he grew soft and lost the edge that kept him going.

With a deft move the elf drew a well-made knife from her tunic, picked up a piece of apple, and offered it Umbria who appeared a bit startled and declined. Turning to Awygan she offered it to him in turn.

‘And you, good sir,’ she said offering the piece to him, ‘do you care to try a tasty treat from off my blade?’

Two can play at that game.

He quietly slid one of his own knives from his boot & then quickly took the apple from the Innkeeper's.

I am no elf but neither am I the slow old man I appear to be he thought, noting with some grim satisfaction he was still swift & keen in his movements. Whether the Innkeeper was surprised or amused was difficult to tell.

"So long as I am not required to eat the blade along with the treat." He then ate the slice off of the blade. Quickly as it had appeared the knife was again hidden. He paused, chewing, as if deep in thought. "It would be a waste of a fine knife."

He saw her instictively place her hand over her stomach and for a time it brought back unpleasent memories and a brief shadow passed over his face. He hoped she did not notice; his troubles were his concern alone and he would not burden others with them.

[ January 07, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

Eruantalon

01-07-2003, 11:16 AM

Now stirring to wake he heard a voice"Sir its ten O' clock."His eyes now opened.

"Good moring Rie Aw grrah."He said yawning.

"Never sleep in a hey loft.You'll end up smelling like horses."He now said with a smile.

She seemed to chuckel at this greeting.Now helping him up out of the hey.He steadyed himself with here.He streched out and looked up.

"Well now for a shower and some food.That would start things off well."He was still yawning off the sleep.

"Now lets get back to the inn.Oh and thank you for waking me."

[ January 07, 2003: Message edited by: Eruantalon ]

Nurumaiel

01-07-2003, 11:27 AM

Don glared at Belladona and demanded, "What's your name?"

"Belladona, but most just call me Dona."

"Well, you better not talk to me or hang around me or people will get us mixed up. That's because everybody calls me Don." The girl glared even harder.

Nuru sighed and winked at Dona. Don glared at her and said, "You better not wink because I can see you doing it."

Nuru and Dona exchanged looks, and the Elf wondered when Rie would be coming back. She would definitely know how to handle this rascally hobbit girl.

piosenniel

01-07-2003, 12:36 PM

So, it is as I suspected. He is as well armed as I. And as suspicious of others' motives.

She placed her hand on her belly, quieting the movements that had stirred at her thoughts.

Pio sat down, resheathing her blade, and faced the man. 'Let me speak plainly here, Sir. I mean to keep the peace within these walls and the outer courtyard. What other concerns you have are not my business.' She leaned close to him, watching the shadows play across his face. 'I have lived long enough to understand when darkness eats you, the shadowed wraiths of despair and anger creep out at times. And actions done when they appear are oft regretted in a clearer light. You are welcome here, as are any who seek shelter and a safe place before the storms of life drive you on. Just keep yourself in check.'

She smiled at him, for the benefit of the other customers. A cold smile which did not reach her eyes. Pio stood, giving a curt nod to Umbria, and returned to her place by the fire.

Himaran

01-07-2003, 12:45 PM

A Dwarf, looking close to middle aged but retaining youthful strength, ambled along the dusty path. He wore a light brown tunic, a traveler's cap and a grey cloak which partially covered the glint that shone off his mail coat.

Walking at a slow, but steady pace (as is the manner with dwarves), and carrying a hefty single edged axe over his shoulder, the dwarf approached the sign hanging outside a large building. It read: The Green Dragon Inn "This looks like a good place to stop and hae a drink, before I'm on my way," declared the dwarf in his rich baretone voice; to no one in particular (in fact, the yard around him was empty). With that, he proceeded through the door of the inn.

[ January 07, 2003: Message edited by: Himaran ]

[ January 08, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Carrûn

01-07-2003, 12:52 PM

She smiles, but eyes show more than words oft tell or so it said. At least she speaks directly, a rare occurance in the life of one as travled as myself

He sighed, and mulled over her words thoughtfully with some respect.

...before the storms of life drive you on.

Aye, the storms of life. But my storm is inside me; no external forces or purposes power me forward, I am driven by my own lack of design. She sees this clearer than most. A smile has many meanings or I am a fool. Which I am not.

"Of course, m'lady."

He returned her smile in kind, but his eyes flashed slightly. I keep myself in check as I desire, was the silent reaction in his face.

Yet here I will be as an old man by the fireplace, and let my mind wanter from my body. Then I will depart on my ways for a place where my skills are needed. Much talk is abroad of strange folk these days, and the birds and the trees speak as clearly to me as any man can. Mayhaps I will go to the Rangers, for they understand me better than most and always have use for a tracker or swordsman. They have accepted me in the past.

He sat again in silence like a great dark statue, watching his shadow dance in the flames as dark shadows danced in his heart.

He looked up slightly to notice the door open and a dwarf walked in. Ah, a dwarf. We shall see how the elves keep themselves 'in check.' A fool to carry a weapon openly. He grinned slightly, and then refocused his attention on filling his pipe. Lighting it, he watched the smoke curl above his head and rise towards the ceiling. Smoke rises. A symbol of death. To many times...

[ January 07, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

theWhiteLady

01-07-2003, 02:38 PM

Nell's hooves beat a steady rhythm on the ground as she cantered along. Laurie allowed her to stretch out, lengthening her stride, and quickly eating up the road before them. It was but a short time till a long, thin curl of smoke alerted Laurie that they had arrived at the stone inn. She slowed Nell to a trot and dismounted a short ways from the door.

Laurie led Nell into the stables, took her tack off, and gave her another small sugar cube from the folds of her white dress. She grabbed the bulging runsack and entered into the Green Dragon once more. It took a moment for her eyes to adjust from the bright sunlight to the dimmer atmosphere of the inn. Laurie spotted Pio sitting with an elf and the man she had seen earlier; she threaded her way between the tables and groups of customers over to where they sat. Her eyes flitted from the man sitting rather sternly, lost in his thoughts, to Pio who was watching him carefully. She thought it almost seemed tense, but broke the silence that hung in the air.

"Pio, would you like me to take this to the kitchen? Farmer Maggot sends his regards," she added with a smile.

Carlas

01-07-2003, 03:04 PM

Harenthiel had been awake for quite some time, prefering to remain in her room for awhile. But she grew hungry and decided to get some breakfast.

She walked downstairs, noticing that there were many more hobbits at the inn than yesterday. She walked over to the bar and asked for some food. She smiled as the food was brought to her, she was in quite a better mood than the night before.

She sat at a table by the door for some time, enjoying the the breakfast, and watching people come in and out. She would soon be leaving for Mirkwood.

Himaran

01-07-2003, 03:12 PM

Bali, the dwarf, hung his axe on a rack near the door, and continued into the room. He looked around the large inn, noticing the diversity in the race of the many patrons sitting, talking, singing and dinning, some merry, some sad, some angry, and some deep in thought. His eyes strayed to the elf talking to an old, tired-looking man sitting at a table with a guest Bali could not get a good look at.

The elf turned away and moved back to the fire,where she sat. Bali turned his attention to her. An elf. There are many of them here. I wonder if any dwarves are around. Anyway, I must find the innkeeper. I need a place to stay. Straightening his tunic and cape, the dwarf headed across the room and found a seat, close to the fire.

[ January 08, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Pipperin

01-07-2003, 03:17 PM

Pipperin sat humming as she ate, enjoying every bite. She soon finished and asked for more, glad it was something different than her mothers cooking.

She looked down at her dress noticing that it was quite muddy."Oh, where is Estella when you need her? I dont think I brought very much, though perhaps Merrigold will share." She smiled and went back to her food.

Yavanna Kementari

01-07-2003, 03:25 PM

As the young hobbit ripped at Dona with her words she noted that this child had seen harder times than some of Hobbits in their full adulthood. Dona mused at the fact she had noticed her winking, even as she ate her meal.

Dona's eyebeows raised and a half grin mixed with a hint amusement spread across her face.

" You know Don,you are not so childlike as one should think. Life isn't always as it seems," Dona said with a look of sincere pity on her face. "But I will not bother you about that you now, I must go see if Nuru needs some help."

And with a kind smile Dona quickly walked back to Nuru.

" My gosh what has aged this child so quickly?" Dona asked Nuru.

" What could possibly be going on in the world that a child must fend for themselves just as well as an adult could." Dona said to Nuru. And right after she said it, there was a loud thump, and the room got quiet. In the door way stood a dwarf. Not just a dwarf but an armed dwarf!

Dona whispered in a low defensive tone.

" Thats why Youngins have to grow up so fast, every one walking around bearin arms all the time, you'd think there was a war goin' on over yonder hill."

Nuru said nothing in response to Dona's comment, she just looked at the Dwarf with a loss for words.

Now Belladona was just as headstrong as her name was and was not afraid of much at all. But she knew that in the company of Elves, Dwarves were not so welcomed by them, and from the look on the dwarfs face he wasn't so comfortable either.

Dona whispered with a smile " Nuru, " I'll get this one."

The dwarf hung his axe up and took a seat close to the fire. Dona slowly approached him.

"Hullo there handsome,can I get you something?" she said smiling at the dwarf. She tried to take the edge off by approaching him first.

He was somewhat taller than she,aven though he was sitting. He wore a light brown tunic that was dusty and a grey cloak that he tried to hide his armour with,but the glow of it shone right through the cloth.

"Whats your name?" Dona said to him. He stood there looking at her with a loss for words.

[ January 07, 2003: Message edited by: Yavanna Kementari ]

Everdawn

01-07-2003, 03:44 PM

Umbria continued talking, as though recalling some long off memory "yes" slowly she began

"Dol Amroth" she paused "In the south though I am called The Everdawn, Ever because of my immortality, and Dawn, because of when I arrived in the south. But I have long since gone from there, to the dismay of the prince."

Though she was facing away from the dwarf, Umbria, quickly turned to look at Awyrgan "Dwarf!" she looked deeply troubled and turned to look in the direction the dwarf was. "I have had too many ill frays with this race"

Himaran

01-07-2003, 03:51 PM

"Whats your name?"

Bali was quite taken aback at how quickly someone had waited on him. The innkeeper must be proud of their helpers, he thought. Regaining his composure, the dwarf stood, bowing low and sweeping off his hat in a polite fashion. "Bali, at your service, mad'am. My sincere thanks for your quick attention, I'm fair parched. Might you have a little fresh beer in stock? I'm not too picky about the type." Here he chuckled over an old memory which he said nothing about.

Of course, Dona offered to get him some right away. She looked slightly relived that he was friendly. Another common misconception about dwarves. Everyone thinks that we're bad tempered! (Although it's not entirely untrue) "Thank ye kindly, mad'am. And what might be your name, pretty young lady?" Bali inquired.

[ January 07, 2003: Message edited by: Himaran ]

[ January 08, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Carrûn

01-07-2003, 03:52 PM

Umbria's sudden outburst prodded Awyrgan from his trancelike state and he gave a short bitter laugh that seemed to surprise both her and himself.

"Ah, I believe I top you there - I have had many ill frays with all races and they with me."

She looked at him and he continued in his slow fashion. "But as of yet I have had no conflicts with the people of Dol Amroth. I travelled there once under a different name several years ago; many of my few pleasent memories are from my stay there." He paused, as if to speak but instead fell into a stony silence once again and would say no more. He was getting hungry and was debating whether to approach a server about a meal or to just go outside and kill something. Deciding finally upon neither he continued to sit and smoke.

[ January 07, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

Everdawn

01-07-2003, 04:15 PM

Umbria smiled..."many fond memmories" she looked for many a while at the Dwarf who had entered..

Then in through the front doors entered a tall fair man, hair of brown and eyes of blue, dressed in the habit of the guards of Dol Amroth. Suddenly Umbria was struck down with fear, for this was not her kinsman.

"Bebberyn" she said quietly as he approached her and Awyrgan. Bebberyn stopped short and bowed deeply to Umbria "The Lady Everdawn" he said "I have news of the prince and that of Niquinion."

Orual

01-07-2003, 06:53 PM

Rie walked back to the Inn with Eruantalon, chatting idly and trying to ignore her stomach's none-too-subtle reminders of her lack of breakfast. As soon as they came to the door she took her leave of the man and went straight to the kitchen, not bothering to do it quietly.

"Nuru, I'm about to pass out. Is there anything to do right now, or can I have something to eat?" Rie asked dramatically, hanging her cloak on a hook and tying her apron back on. She didn't wait for Nuru to respond before she nabbed another piece of toast and a piece of bacon to quiet her stomach. "Sorry I took so long, I had to go wake a guest in the stables," she said, now talking just for the fun of it. "It was the bard who sang that wonderful song, remember it? Sleeping with the horses! I can't fathom why, but I guess it's none of my business. Oh, I feel better now. Is there work to be done?" She looked up at Nuru, and laughed. "Or maybe I should give you a chance to speak?"

Yavanna Kementari

01-07-2003, 09:10 PM

Dona curtsied as Bali bowed to her.
" At my service?" She said. "Mayhap tomorow will tell," she said. " For now let me be at your service."

" My name is Belladona Headstrong, but you may call me Dona." She said with a smile.

She turned around and went to get him some ale. She returned quickly with a pint.
Oh thank you so much!! He said with a kind smile. "I have not had a drink in quite some while." Bali drank the first pint with amazing speed. While he drank it dripped down the front of his brown braided beard. Dona chuckled a little at how fast he drank.

He was actually kind of handsome and looked amazingly young aside from his age.

"Oh that was great," he said slowly with a deep baratone voice.

"Oh could I please have another ma'dam?"

She was quite taken back by his kindness.

" You really take care of your guests don't you." Bali said with a smile.

" I don't actually work here but I've noticed some of the ladies are very hurried and they seem to be short handed today. I was just passing through but I figured I stay a night before I'm off again,so I figured why not be a help while I'm here. To mention it I haven't even met the Inn Keeper yet," she said chuckling.

Dona spoke to the dwarf as if he were a close friend to make him feel comfortable among all the elves. Though the elves didn't seem to bother him.

"I'll be right back with your Ale kind sir."

Dona walked back to the bar and asked if Nuru if she needed any more help.

She notice another person standing be side Nuru. Dona politley courtsied to her.

" Hullo, I'm Belladona Headstrong, but you may call me Dona," smiling Dona asked "and what is your name ma'am?"

As she asked her name, a man clad in garb she had never seen before entered the inn and her blood ran cold.
[ January 07, 2003: Message edited by: Yavanna Kementari ]

[ January 07, 2003: Message edited by: Yavanna Kementari ]

Carrûn

01-07-2003, 09:32 PM

Awyrgan sat in the corner as a man clad in the garb of the South entered the Inn and made for Umbria. He noted her reaction as she spoke the man's name and he bowed. He did not hear the words which passed between them but clearly she was troubled.

Having neither been acknowledged by the stranger or acknowledged him the bright-eyed man continued to brood in the darkness and watched to see where the twos' conversation would lead. Out of the corner of his eye he noticed the Innkeeper watching him. Like a shepard protecting their sheep, he observed. I am a wolf but these here are not my prey.

[ January 07, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

Barodir

01-07-2003, 10:14 PM

It was around noon. Barodir had to leave now, or he'd never make it in time.

He stood up, without saying a word and left out the door. He got his horse and took off down the road the way Pio told him to.

"I wonder if I shall ever return to this fair establishment?" he pondered. "I must stay focused though. I must return to Minas Tirith in time!"

And with that, he rode away over the hill and out of the Shire.

Barodir's story shall continue, after I get a good idea of what to do. Maybe he'll return in a few "days". We shall see...

Orual

01-07-2003, 10:24 PM

"Hullo, I'm Belladona Headstrong, but you may call me Dona...and what is your name ma'am?"

"Mm--" Rie blushed and held up her hand, motioning for Dona to wait a moment while she swallowed her toast. Then she laughed apologetically. "I'm sorry! My name is Talmérië, but everyone calls me Rie. It's a pleasure to meet you, Dona."

Rie then turned to look at a young hobbit lass who she hadn't noticed before. She exchanged a quick look with Nuru that told her everything she needed to know--she had seen the same look on her mother's face when speaking with friends about Rie and Talômi. She pushed a lock of red hair behind her ear, and dove in headfist. "Greetings, young kali! My name is Rie. What's yours?"

excheeto

01-07-2003, 10:45 PM

Belle spun in her seat as the inn door crashed open.Standing at the doorway was a grimacing Esmerelda Proudfoot,the eldest of her seven sisters.She turned her head away from the door and bent down,hoping to shrink out of the room,or at least,out of Essy's sight.Her sisters eyes seemed to burn into her back,and the inn felt somewhat quieter.

"BELLE PROUDFOOT!"Essy roared into the inn,"DON'T EVEN TRY TO HIDE!WE'VE BEEN RUNNING AROUND THE WHOLE SHIRE FOR YOU!NOW GET OVER HERE THIS INSTANT!".Belle slowly turned around and froze,aware of the now compleate silence in the room.Essy pointed a finger at her,motioning her to come towards her before pointing to the ground in front of her."Don't make me get Prissy after you"Essy said in a low,dark tone.

Belle stayed frozen until her wits began to come back.She closed her eyes and started to scream."AAAAAAAAAAAAAIIIIIIIIIII".She heard the thud thud thud of Essy's feet and in an instant,found her own hurrying her under a table.
"Don't make this any more difficult than it already is"Essy said,looking under tables."I was having fun here!I don't wanna go home!"Belle shouted,but she had been crawling behind guests cloaks and skirts to reach other tables to hide under,and her shouting had given her away.She heard her sisters footsteps as they came closer to her table,and,in a panic,darted out from under the tablecloth to make a run for it.

Esmerelda,accustomed to Belle's tricks,knocked her out of her path,grabbing her legs and tackling Belle to the ground.

"I'm sorry"Essy said,looking at the staring guests,"she doesn't have much sense sometimes,and why she would come here OW!STOP KICKING! I could only *MMFF* guess,I apologize for the disturbance".With this,she unfastened her cloak,rolling a protesting Belle before wrapping it around her and carrying her out of the inn like a sack of potatoes."You'll never get away from the dishes"she whispered as Belle gave a kick.

Nurumaiel

01-07-2003, 11:39 PM

Don turned to Rie and said, "Donnamira, but you can call me Don. Or, actually, you can't. You can't even talk to me. I'm tired of all these ladies hanging around me."

Nuru looked at Rie with her eyebrows raised. This child was very odd.

"Well, don't you think we might get tired of you hanging around?" asked Rie. "After all, you're also a lady."

Don looked taken aback for a moment, but then said, "I'm not a lady. Ladies always wear pretty dresses and brush their hair all the time and spend their time trying to make themselves more beautiful. Like you-" she glared at Nuru "-but I don't!"

"Who said I do all you have accused me of?" Nuru demanded in a mock stern voice.

"Well, see how pretty you look-" here Nuru blushed "-and don't talk in a voice like that. I know you're pretending."

Rie, Nuru, and Dona all looked at each other, and the first of the three said, "Well, there'll be some time until lunch. Maybe we can all take a break, and try to get some more out of this child."

"You needn't try, because you won't," said Don, but the three were determined to learn more about her and what made her act the way she did.

piosenniel

01-08-2003, 01:47 AM

Pio called for one of the servers to put the supplies from Farmer Maggot away in the pantry and the cooler, and bade Laurie take a seat with her. 'I have not seen the Old Man for a long time,' she said, 'though knowing him, he knows all about my comings and goings.' She laughed, thinking of the sunburnt famer with dirt beneath his nails. A plain, honest looking man, but crafty and wise as the day is long. 'Keeps his ear close to the ground, that one. And his nose to the breezes.'

'Tell me, did you enjoy the ride? It's nice to get out isn't it? Fresh air, and the sound of hooves striking against the roadway.' Pio poured a cup of sweet-spice tea for the woman. She poured a little more into her own cup, then sat back and let her eyes sweep the room.

Some few moments passed in desultory conversation. Pio nodded at Laurie's talk and smiled, though her mind was for the most part preoccupied - watching the actions and interactions of the new guests and the old.

Everdawn

01-08-2003, 04:08 AM

Bebberyn kneeled before Umbria... "Lady Everdawn, your kinsman, Niquinion hath been slain in his journey. Slain by orcs of the south."

Umbria's head bowed and she nodded. "I feared so..." Bebberyn looked into her eyes, "there is more... The prince, he wishes you to return to Dol Amroth."

To this Umbria was assertive. "I will no sooner return to the realm of Gondor, then I will long to stay in the north!" Bebberyn bowed "yes m'mady."

Umbria stood up and walked to a window and peered out. Bebberyn followed after her. "You must understand Bebberyn, I have spent so much time in the south, trying to out-run my troubles, it makes no difference, immortality is my curse!"

she returned to her seat. "Bebberyn, I wish for you to meet this man, a traveller by the name of Awyrgan." Bebberyn looked surprised, "perhaps we have met before?" Bebberyn stood at Umbria's side. "I take it that the Lady Everdawn will not return to the Realm of Gondor as the prince wishes?"

She paused... "no Bebberyn". With that Bebberyn nodded at Awrygan and left. " I shall return in a few days, maybe then you will change your mind!"

Umbria was quiet and closed her eyes, a single tear ran from her cheek. "And so it has begun..."

Holfast Willow from Greenfields

01-08-2003, 06:12 AM

A tall, slim person is suddenly seen in the door. He is cloaked so that no one can see who he is. It appears that he is looking around the inn, as if he is looking for someone, and enters. He removes the hood from his face, and reveals that he is an elf. "Greetings" he said. He looks around once more, bows to the elven maids and sits down by a table.

"There are many travelers in these days. I joined up with a few wanderers who were going to Rohan. They spoke of great deeds to be done and many songs to be heard and tales to be told."

Child of the 7th Age

01-08-2003, 08:51 AM

Cami hid the look of amusement on her face as she watched Esmerelda scoop up her sister and unceremoniously haul her out of the Inn. All that just to get a tub of dishes washed! Cami tried not to giggle too loudly or too long, but it was difficult to resist.

Right now, laughing was not the easiest or wisest thing for her to do. The healer had warned her sternly about that. She tried to hold her sides, but to no avail. The wracking pain came on suddenly, as she berated herself for being careless. Still, things were improved from a day or two ago when she'd had to content herself with sitting by the fire and twiddling her thumbs.

At least she could take orders now, even if she couldn't yet carry trays or platters to the tables. And there was certainly nothing wrong with her eyes or ears. She saw the tall fellow standing in the doorway who went down and sat near the hearth fire. His cloak hid his body and face so well that it was impossible to say if he was Man or Elf.

So many mysterious strangers passing through the Inn. She stood up and approached him at the table, "How can I help you? Cami Goodchild at your service, assistant Innkeeper. Would you care for a bite to eat or drink?"

She hesitated a minute and then went on, "If you're heading towards Rohan, then I warrant you're from west of here. Perhaps from Tower Hills or somewhere in Lindon?" She wondered if he would reply.

Merri

01-08-2003, 09:15 AM

Elanor wished she could be more helpful to Miss Pio and Cami, but at the moment, it seemed that they were distracted enough without her asking what she could do.

So, the hobbit set herself to clearing up the dirty dishes folk had left behind and bringing them into the kitchen to be washed, listening to the conversations going on around her carefully.

Usually, Elanor would be asking questions to no end, but this was a still unfamiliar place full of unfamiliar people, and she felt that it was wisest to tread carefully, which to her meant keeping her tongue in check.

[ January 08, 2003: Message edited by: Merri ]

Carrûn

01-08-2003, 09:21 AM

"Bebberyn, I wish for you to meet this man, a traveller by the name of Awyrgan."

The man Bebberyn noticed the weathered man in the corner for the first time. Awyrgan touched his forehead in greeting towards the surprised looking man.

"Perhaps we have met before?"

"Perhaps. A traveller's road is long and faces are many," he responded apollogetically. He knows my face but not my name. I have ridden next to him before. No matter; I am Awyrgan to all who know me now. The man from the South conversed for some time with Umbria and then bowed and left the Inn. Umbria remained standing by the window in silence.

A bringer of ill news no doubt. Awyrgan suddenly remembered he had not slept in several days and drawing his cloak about him fell into a light sleep; resting but still taking in the surroundings and events going on around him. He never truely slept, but it kept him alive.

Himaran

01-08-2003, 10:00 AM

Aroused by the sudden upproar, Bali stood from his seat, looking for the cause of the noise. When he found none, the dwarf turned back and sat down in his seat.

I wonder where that Dona is with my ale, he wondered. There were a few things I had in mind to ask her.

Schmendrick

01-08-2003, 10:19 AM

Durmán still couldn't figure out who had been talking about Dol Amroth and he didn't really care anymore. "After all, my true quest is now elsewhere", he said to himself.
He hadn't even noticed the guardian enter, for he was looking at the opposite direction. If he had, he wouldn't have been so at ease.

He felt refreshed now, having slept some 5 hours, and started observing the other visitors with growing interest. There were many men and elves, but above all he was fascinated by the hobbits. He had never seen one in his life before!

"Surely these must be halflings", he thought, trying to remember some old stories about them, but he couldn't recall many.
"Maybe I should go and talk to one of them?", he thought. "After all, I might never come this north again! But first I have to get something to eat!"

Durmán looked around him, hesitating. He hadn't paid much attention to anyone yesterday. Who was in charge of this place?
He remembered suddenly the elven woman who had invited him to dance yesterday. "Pio" he thought he had heard them call her.

Where could he find her? Surely she would know...

Eruantalon

01-08-2003, 01:12 PM

Entering the inn he saw some new faces in the inn that wheren't there the night before.
So he made his way to the tabel where Cami was sitting and asked"Cami is there any where I could get a bath and clean up here.I am in a good need of one and want to take the chance while I can."

While he waited for Camis response he noticed a Dwarf in the inn now.He waw bearing a beautifull ax.

"Now when did that Dwarf lord come in Cami. I seem to rconize him from somewhere."His face deep in thought.

"Well like I was saying about that bath Cami."He started in again.

[ January 08, 2003: Message edited by: Eruantalon ]

theWhiteLady

01-08-2003, 01:14 PM

Laurie chatted to Pio about Farmer Maggot for a few minutes, but soon realized that she was only half listening; her mind was elsewhere. Laurie didn't really mind, so she fell silent letting her thoughts wander to and fro. It was nice to just sit down for a little while, especially so near to the warm hearth. Laurie stretched out her feet towards the fire with a low groan and closed her eyes just for a moment, in order to think more clearly.

Nonesuch

01-08-2003, 01:15 PM

A tall man wearing the dusty livery of the Guard of the White Tower of Gondor enters the Inn. His boots are worn and his face grimy from long riding. Seizing a rag from the bar, he mops his brow, then collapses into a chair at an empty table.

"An ale, please," he asks of a server. "And if you have such a thing, a glass of cordial made from the plant known in the Common Tongue as agave." The barmaid looked blankly at the Man who sighed in disappointment.

When the ale arrived, he drained it in a single long draught. He ordered a second, then looked about. A number of the patrons were staring at him and his uniform. Painfully aware that he still wore the dust of the road as well as his clothes, he swept at his tunic with an open hand to little avail.

A bold young Hobbit approached him. "I am Elanor," she said. "What brings a Man of Gondor so far to the North?"

The Man smiled. "Well met, Elanor," he replied. "I am Hithmir, and I am here on an errand. I am one of the King's messengers and a bear a letter for one who is said to be currently in The Shire..."

piosenniel

01-08-2003, 01:47 PM

'Another Man of Gondor!' she thought to herself, noting the new customer who had just come in. She called the server to her.

'What did he order? He looked disappointed at the ale.' The server explained he wanted some strange drink that she couldn't find behind the bar. Pio's brow furrowed at the mention of the name, then her eyes lit up, remembering the dusty, faceted bottle with the silvery, white liquid she had found in the cellar.

A small while later, she approached the Guard's table where Elanor sat speaking with him, bearing a small glass, the dusted bottle, and a dish of sour green fruits, cut in wedges.

'I'm Piosenniel,' she said, introducing herself. 'Or Pio, if you prefer, the Inkeeper here. Welcome to the Green Dragon.' she placed the glass and bottle on the table before him. 'The drink you ordered, I believe. We don't get much call for the Southron spirits.' She put the dish of green wedges down, along with a small dish of finely ground salt. 'Didn't know if you would want these.' She poured him a small glass of the silvery liquid. 'I've seen it drunk many different ways.'

'Now tell me,' she said, watching him swallow the drink at a single gulp. 'what brings you to the Shire?'

She poured him another drink, and waited . . .

[ January 08, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Child of the 7th Age

01-08-2003, 02:02 PM

Ah, yes, a bath. This fellow had wanted a bath. And a good thing too, she thought. From the odors wafting about his clothes, he truly seemed to be in need of one. But then she remembered. There had been no more rooms inside, and he'd ended up in the hayloft for the night. No wonder the poor fellow looked and smelled as if he'd spent considerble time in the stables.

She shook her thoughts aside and quickly responded to him, "Miss Laurie should be able to help you. She's over there resting beside the fire. Part of her job is to turn out the upstairs rooms and keep track of who's coming and going. There may be something better available if you'd like to spend another night, or at least she can lend you to a free washtub, and give you a bit of soap to use in one of the upstairs closets."

Nonesuch

01-08-2003, 02:35 PM

Hithmir blinked in surprise and nearly dropped his glass. "Piosenniel?" he asked. "Did you say Piosenniel?"

"That is my name," said the Elf with a curious smile.

"Why then, it is you I seek!" he cried. He stood, opened his satchel and began rummaging through it. "Now, where is it?" he muttered. "Ah, here. Two parcels for the Lady Piosenniel. Now, please sign here..."

Piosenniel went to the bar and found a quill and an inkwell. Returning to the Man's table, she signed a piece of paper with a flourish. "And here you are," said Hithmir. He handed over a sealed envelope and a small package which jingled promisingly. "Now, I could use a room for the night," he continued. "I may stick around for a bit and seek out some adventure before I return to the South..."

piosenniel

01-08-2003, 03:49 PM

Her hand shook as she took the letter with the familiar handwriting on it. ‘Please let it be good news from the South.’ she murmured. Pio tucked the letter in her belt, and placed the packet in her breeches pocket.

She asked Elanor to freshen a room for their new guest, asking if she might have the girl take his bags up to the room. ‘He looks fit enough to carry his own bags.’ thought Elanor to herself, but smiled and curtsied, saying nothing.

Pouring one last drink for Hithmir, and wishing him a good stay in the Shire, Pio returned to her seat by the fire. Cami came near, wanting to know, in her ever curious Hobbit way, what Pio had received. ‘Let me read it first.’ said the Elf, and then I will share it with you.’

She shooed the Hobbit off with a smile and a wave of her hand, then took the packet and letter, laying them side by side on the table. Which one to open first, she wondered, running her fingers lightly over each. She chose the packet, and opened it with the small knife from her boot top. Ten gold coins poured out, in to a glittering heap on the table top. ‘Ah! He must have sold the knife.’ She fingered the face of one of the coins, picking out the gull winged helmet that graced the upturned side. ‘A pity he could not have kept it, to pass down to his son. A good businessman, he is, though. And I am sure that if I thought about it clearly I would understand the need for profit which drives the world of Men.’

A few moments lost in thought, and then she opened the letter, running the sharp blade of the knife carefully along the letter’s edge. A single, white piece of parchment, crisply folded, fell to the table as she shook the envelope. Opening it, she read:

~~~~~~~~~~~

Beloved:

I hope this letter finds you well. You are always in my thoughts.

The refit of The Lonely Star proceeds apace, though it may be perhaps three months before it is finished. The barnacles alone took two weeks to remove.

I have sold Elros' dagger to King Elessar. Together with the proceeds of sale from the three ships some time ago (you recall I think) and less the expense of repairs to the Star, I have secured some 600 gold pieces for the partnership. This should keep Bird going for I time, I think.

I am advancing you some of the profits for your ease. But tell me, when will you return to the warmth of Gondor? Surely you do not intend to give birth to the twins so far from me? Of course, if you wish I will join you in the frozen north. You can, of course contact me without writing.

I await your reply and look forward to seeing you soon, for I miss you sorely.

With all my love,

Mithadan

~~~~~~~~~~

A few tears edged her lashes, as she folded the letter and replaced it in the envelope.

Elanor had come to tell her the guest and his bags had gone up stairs. ‘Some sad news, Ms. Pio?’ she asked concerned. Pio turned her face to the girl, smiling, and wiped away the threatened tears.

‘No, not sad at all, Elanor.' Pio's hand rested protectively over the soft swell of her belly. 'I am just missing someone . . . very much, at this moment . . .’

[ January 08, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Child of the 7th Age

01-08-2003, 06:04 PM

A few curious hobbits tried to sneak up on Miss Pio, slipping adroitly across the tables and standing on a chair to look down and read her letter, but Cami grimly waved her hands and chased them all away. The Elf needed her privacy at such a delicate moment. Moreover, she vowed, no other hobbit was going to get a close look at that missive before she herself did.

Wouldn't Mith be surprised to hear she was visiting the Inn. These Inns had a way of gathering people from many different times and places in one central place. Perhaps it was a bit of Elven magic!

With that thought in mind, and really wanting to see the letter, Cami slipped in closer to Pio, and stood on tiptoe to try to peer over her arm. Alas, she was far too short. Too bad, Bird wasn't here to fly overhead and read off the words to her. She sighed and settled back on her heels, waiting for the Elf to share the letter's contents with her.

[ January 08, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Eruantalon

01-08-2003, 06:32 PM

He saw Laurie scattering around the main room.So he waves at her to get her attenshion.

"Laurie when you have a moment please come over.I would like to speak to you about finding a tub.Sleeping in the stabel leaves a person in need of one."He said to her as she came near.

"I'll see what I can do."She said a little out of breath.

"No rush when you get a chance is all."He said with a smile.

Now he noticed the dwarfs ax again.The Dwarf was standing infront of the fire.He had glimsed his face earlier but couldn't see it too well.So he started to walk over to him from behind.

"An Ax made with the skill of the Dwarfs of Erebor.A fine one at that I see from here."The Dwarf turning his head to see who was talking.

He was rubbing his hands togther and enjoying the fire when he said."Yes it is ....but oh yes I think I know you sir"

"As well you should."He now saw the dwafs face well in the glow of the fire.

"The nephew of the Dwarf lord would know my face if he saw it."He said with a broad grin putting his hand on the Dwarfs shoulder.

"So you know me to sir.It has been long since I have been to Erebor.How do you know me sir."

"I am Eruantalon good Dwarf.I have helped your Lord many times.Does my face seem more revealed now."

Now the dwarfs look seemed to search him head to toe.Finaly a smile came to him.

[ January 09, 2003: Message edited by: Eruantalon ]

Sword Maiden Of The Shire

01-08-2003, 07:03 PM

Robin Took wandered along the lonley path bowing her head against the fierce wind. She pulled her green cloak closer around her and looked farther down the road. It was very desolate save for the seldom horse and rider that would come whipping by.

She looked up and saw, faintly in the distance, a small inn, The Green Dragon it said. She suddenley became very aware how hungry she was (being a hobbit). Picking up her pace, Robin made for the inn.

The large wooden door creaked open and she stepped into the warm atmospeare. A fire was burning merrily in the hearth and she pulled back her hood revealing her dark brown hair and startling blue eyes. There were many guests sitting at different tables sipping their mugs and tending to heir busisness.

She stared around the room. There were many Elves, Dwarves, and a few Hobbits as well. She walked up to counter and ordered a bowl of piping hot porrige. She settled down in a soft chair by the fire, her insides warming up after the icy cold wind gnawing at her for the last mile or so...
---------------------------
"That settles it! Short cuts make delays but inns make longer ones!" ~Frodo~

[ January 08, 2003: Message edited by: Sword Maiden Of The Shire ]

Pipperin

01-08-2003, 07:11 PM

Pipperin sat eating and watching as the man from Gondor had given the innkeeper a letter and a parcel. Pio(she thought her name was) opened the letter and read it over as tears began to roll down her soft cheeks.

She tryed to look at the letter but another hobbit ,sitting by the fire, had looked at her sternly so she sat back in her seat.

Pipperin looked around for the Elanor lass, not wanting to disturb Pio. When she saw Elanor by a table in the corner, she got up and walked towards her.

She looked back at Pio, hoping it wasn't bad news, but because she was so preoccupied she did not notice the chair infront of her. She walked right into the chair and fell to the floor in a heap.

Many people laughed as she pushed herself back onto her feet, wiping the dirt of her dress. She nodded to them, slightly embarressed, and walked over to Elanor, who could not hold back some giggles.

"Is there anyway I could have a bath?" she asked, "And maybe a room, just for today?"

[ January 08, 2003: Message edited by: Pipperin ]

Orual

01-08-2003, 07:32 PM

Rie shook her head in amusement. What a spirit! This Don, she was altogether too much like Rie for anybody's good. She watched Don carefully as the girl went though all of the familiar arguments. She almost laughed aloud as she trotted out the old "lady" argument. She didn't know about Nuru or Dona, but she certainly wasn't a lady.

Rie sidled over to Nuru. "A runaway, do you suppose?" she whispered.

"I don't think so," Nuru whispered back. "She told me that she didn't have any parents."

Rie frowned. "A runaway would've been easier.

"Well, nithil-Avalê," Rie said, purposefully neglecting to translate so that Don could mull over the meaning, "you say you don't have any parents?"

"That's what I said," Don replied, eyeing Rie warily. The redhead gazed right back at her.

"I'm guessing that you want sympathy for that?" Rie continued.

"No!" Don shouted, a little hastily.

"Sure you do," said Rie. "That's surely why I tell everybody that I'm a runaway."

"A runaway?" asked Don, sounding a little curious.

"Aye, a runaway. Ran right from my father's house all the way here and never looked back. I left my mother, father, and all my brothers." Here Rie exaggerated: she had spent more than one cold night in the wilderness crying and wishing that she'd never left home.

"But my point is, m'lady, you're not the only tough one around here." Rie pulled her best "tough" face (that she had learned from her elder brothers), and waited for Don's response.

[ January 08, 2003: Message edited by: Orual ]

Sword Maiden Of The Shire

01-08-2003, 09:04 PM

Robin pushed her bowl away and stared into the fire. She was startled when she heard a loud thump. She looked over and saw a young girl laying on the floor; she wondered if she was okay.

She pushed herself up and walked up to her

"Hello Miss...I am called Robin. If I may ask," she paused "Who are you?"...

--------------------------
"That settles it! Short cuts make delays but inns make longer ones!" ~Frodo~

[ January 08, 2003: Message edited by: Sword Maiden Of The Shire ]

Himaran

01-08-2003, 09:36 PM

"Does my face seem more reaveled now?"

Bali's face broke into a deep grin. Grasping the man's hand in a vice-like squeeze, he shook it vigourously, and patted him enthusiastically on the back.

"My friend! What good fortune I met you here. Many a year has past since I left Erebor to wander, and have had little news from home. How is my father, and Uncle? Has Dwalin learnt to ride yet? If he has, I owe him six silver coins, as I thought him a fool for trying and wagered a bet against him!"

Here Bali stopped for breath, but presently continued. "And finally, how are you, Eruantalon my friend? What business brings you to this side of the world?!"

Carrûn

01-08-2003, 09:46 PM

Unnoticed in the hustle and bustle of the Inn a small sandy-haired boy slipped through the door. Spotting the weathered man asleep in the corner he grinned and crept over to him. He looked around hoping no one was watching him and then gave Awyrgan a swift kick in the shins.

Awyrgan awoke with a start having fallen into a deeper sleep than he intended to, one with troubling dreams and strange signs. His bright eyes flashed a brilliant green in anger but softened slightly when he saw the face of his "assailent." He cursed softly in the languages of Men and Dwarves, nearly throwing in a touch of the Black Speech for good measure but stopped himself. One does not utter words of that tounge lightly in the company of so many elves.

He motioned silently and the boy sat down next to him. He had large green eyes like
the man, but the rest of his complexion was starkly in contrast to that of his companion's. Several of those who noticed the strange sight looked in surprise at the small boy next to the dark shadow of a man. The boy whispered for some time in Awyrgan's ear, then sat in silence next to him as the expression on the man's face varied from angry to thoughtful to focused. Almost as an afterthough he passed a small number of coins to the boy and handed him the remainder of the apple he had been eating. The boy grinned and Awyrgan reluctently handed him his unfinished glass of wine. "Found someone with bigger teeth you little úlfr?" he commented, noticing the ugly looking gash on the boy's forhead. The child grinned wider as Awyrgan held his face still for a moment as he inspected the cut. It was not deep and needed only to be washed out. "Get someone to clean that out before you leave." He had a mind to send the child over to Pio but she seemed to be engrossed in a letter. News of some importance judging the look on her face. Ah, well, let the child find someone on his own.

As the boy got up to leave Awyrgan held on to his arm for a moment longer and pulled him close. "Tell them nothing about me unless you must," he ordered. For a moment their green eyes locked and they stared at eachother in silence. The boy grinned again and for a brief moment the man returned it.

Awyrgan watched the boy walk off looking for no one in particular for some soap and water. Interesting news...so they need another tracker. I should leave for their camp soon. It has been too long since I have been in company with the Rangers. I wonder how old...tsch he's probably dead. His thoughts trailed off into silence and for a time he stared at his boots.

I shall leave tonight when the stars come out, he finally decided. As he returned to his pipe it appeared for those who had not seen it that the conversation between man and boy had never taken place. Good hunting young one, he wished silently.

[ January 09, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

Yavanna Kementari

01-08-2003, 10:56 PM

Dona felt little butterflies in her stomache. The man in that came in was there to give ill news she just new it. She turned her mind now back to Don,Rie, and Nuru.

Dona held back a chuckle at the conversation Rie was having with Don.The whole 'being a lady' and acting tough was just too much for her. Then as Rie gave her the 'tough look' She noticed 2 hobbit lassies fighting as one walked out the door with another over her shoulder in a sack,she almost burst in to laughter and tears.

" I'll be right back"

Dona ran into the kitchen with her hand over her mouth and when she was out of sight of the ladies she let out a great roll of laughter.

She returned with her composure regained, and a pint of ale in her hand.

" I'm alright now she smiled, and please excuse me Bali needs his drink still.

Nuru and Rie looked at her with laughter and amusement in their eyes. They both had half grims on their faces.

" Alright," they said together.

As Dona walked away Don yelled to her," I know you were laughing at me!"

Dona turned around and looked at the lass and said " I don't laugh at children,I love them!" Having said this she playfully stuck her tongue out at Don, smiled, courtsied and walked away laughing.

She returned to Bali with his ale and while he was gone another man joined him.

" Here ya go han'some," she said with a smile "Sorry about the delay."

She courtsied to the stranger and said, "What may I get you kind Sir?"

Eruantalon

01-08-2003, 11:01 PM

"Bali my friend Dwalin has yet to learn to ride.But he has cracked to hard helms trying.Still none where as hard as his head.But there is so much new to recount.Call me a fool but I will try to do the task.We where on a deed your uncle had sent us out to.The Festival that was help aferwards you would have had such joy to be there.But have you met mis Pio yet?"

Bali looked a bit uncomfortabel at the tohught of meet the Teleri.But Eruantalon quicly took him over to her.She was reading a letter with hobbits around here that Cami quickly faned away.Only to try and get a better look herself.

As he walked up to her he saw a tear roll down her cheek.He thought to himself"Now this must be tears of greating of the man she is away from.And the children she is eager to see."

"Mis Pio."He said in a hush.

"Well now your joy mixed with sorrow will not stay around for long while I am here.I have an ancient song of the sea that your people like to sing on the fair seas.would you like to hear it.It will chase away the sorrow and remind you of the sea you hold so dear."Saying this he took agian his instrument from his pack.She noded in agreement.

Now a joyus sound came from his instrument.Like the sound of a babbeling brook jumping in the summer light.Quickly his fingers ran up and down the neck loud enough to shake the room.Notes ringing out evrery where.Cutting through the people stoped and a quitness was over them.

He stamped his foot twice on every orther beat.Now raising his voice hi and sang.

The sea the sea so bright and true.with falling waves that cast so blue.the joy of them for me and you.

all of us following now.

The roar of her by light of dawn.She laughs with joy all sorrows gone.
The sweet deepness that goes on and on.

Greatt calls going out to here now

Like jewls on arda she sparkels and shines.That Ulmo rought so bright and so fine.My hart ever with joy in song that it finds.

Singing it out to her now.

Quickly Arendill joined in with him now.The fair joyus sound of the star maidens voice with the deep voince of Eruantalons.Sang out with the whole inn now stamping along with him.Her voice now taking the next verse.High and beautifull.

So now we all sing to you us Teleri.Of rushing foam and of salty sea.The ships call out to set us free.

All of us sailing out now.

Now there two voices togther in harmony.That sets Pio two move to the music.Rie came also to join in now with the three of them singing.Eruantalon wispering the next lines of the verse in her ear as they all sang.

On fairest ships the chirlden will dance.No sorrow known if love is at chance.Ever on shores and sea they will prance.

Living the life we know how.

The booming voice of the minstel now rang through the whole of the inn.As it did the night before.But now no ancient beauty long forgotten was in his song with joy and happeness.The room grew warm again.Now the smell of the sea was every where.The crashing of the waves could almost be heard.

The inn was filled with light as the three sang.As if a beauty that crawled into every part of the inn was there that morning.Almost like a joyus spell.

Pio was smiling and happy now.Maybe it was more likely for him to get a tub now.

The entire green dragon was in an upraor.Even Bali was dancing happaly.Though the dwarfs had no joy in the sea.Bali was not fearfull of the sounds that where made.For they where not terribal and angry but friendly and warm.

The song ended and the entire inn shouted for joy.Eruantalon,Rie,and Arendill all laugh togther.

"Now Pio this is Bali he is an old friend and a better Dwarf is hard to find.For this is as friendly and kind as they are made by Aule."

Pio greeted him and he turned to him and said"Now about the comming and goings of your poeople.There is a long story here.But I promise not to stop till it is told."

[ January 09, 2003: Message edited by: Eruantalon ]

Everdawn

01-09-2003, 02:02 AM

Umbria breathed deep, still watching out the window spoke. "so you do seek the company of the rangers. It was as I had suspected, were you once one of them perhaps? for I see that you are stout of heart, as many like you I have seen are"

She looked at the traveller and then after the boy "a dark day it is, Awrygan, my friend... and who was that child?... no, dont tell me, for I need something to drink, tell me on my return". Umbria went to the bar.

Child of the 7th Age

01-09-2003, 11:38 AM

Mistress Pio still wasn't being terribly cooperative about the contents of that letter. The Elf had run off to sigh and hold the treasured missive to her chest and was staring out the front window of the Inn, as if weighing a decision in her mind. Cami shook her head. There was no use interrupting her now. She'd best get back to work.

Suddenly the silver bell tinkled at the door of the Dragon. Cami looked up startled. The door was unlatched, and visitors never bothered with the bell. That is, no visitors bothered with the bell but one, and that one was the Shire post. Perhaps this time, there'd be a letter for her, and she could make sure to hide it from Piosenniel!

The messenger on the step tipped his cap to her, with a respectful gaze. "Miss Cami, I'd be much obliged if you would sign for this letter. It's from a friend of yours in Hobbiton."

Cami snatched eagerly at the letter, scribbling out her signature as fast as she could. She tipped the messenger and bade him good afternoon. She spied the envelope and saw that the return address clearly said "Bag-end". Carefully unfolding the vellum, she sat down at one of the empty tables, and set it down in front of her smoothing out the wrinkles:

Dear Miss Cami,

It is so good to hear that one of my old pupils is back in the Shire! This place certainly attracts folks from every corner of Arda and every age known to man and hobbit.

I have two things to ask you. First, I am having a little dinner party. Frodo has travelled with me back to the Shire for this little trip, and will be there as well. I am pleased to tell you that he is feeling much better. I also expect to ask Master Samwise and his brood, who have kindly vacated the premises here for my use, so the gathering should be quite lively.

Please do come and ask a few of your friends to join you for the meal. I am most desirous of hearing some of the tales of the Lonely Star and also the hidden history of hobbits.

I have one other request to make. As you know, I am plannning a surprise party for Frodo, and have outfitted a band of hobbits to go travelling about the Shire seeking supplies for the party. We are unfortunately short several brave hobbits, and could use a volunteer or two extra. There have also been rumors about a group of ruffians and thugs lurking on the highways, but let's hope those tales are not true.

Again, please make the announcement in the Green Dragon Inn, and I look forward to seeing my star pupil tomorrow evening.

Bilbo Baggins, Esq.

Cami finished reading her letter and clambered up onto the top of one of the tables, banging with a large spoon to get everyone's attention.

"I have a message for everyone from Mr. Bilbo Baggins. He is looking for brave hobbits, lads and lasses, to set out on a journey through the Shire to gather supplies for Frodo's birthday celebration, which incidentally must be kept in the strictest confidence. All applicants for these positions must leave their calling cards at the discussion thread for The Hobbit's Gift. These messages will be forwarded to Bilbo, and he will try to accomodate you."

Then Cami thought long and hard about that dinner party at Bag-end and who she might invite, and what special frock she might put
on. It had been a long time since Cami had seen Bilbo. He was a very special person to her, so she intended to look her very best.

[ January 09, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

theWhiteLady

01-09-2003, 01:06 PM

Laurie awoke with a start and realized she had dozed off, coaxed to sleep by the warm fire. She shook her head impatiently and chastizeded herself for being so careless. To make up for her error, she began tending the various costumers, running from table to table. The man from the stable touched her elbow as she swept by and asked very politely for a tub. Laurie thought he looked much nicer now, though rather dirty. She hurried away to get a tub, but was stopped so many times, that the thought was driven clean out of her mind.

It was not until the man began to play and sing a beautiful Elvish song that she remembered his request. Laurie had to pause to listen for a moment, however; each note was like a clear, warm drop of sunlight full of joy and happiness. Then she hurried from the room and quickly filled a tub she found in a side room with warm water. Laurie threaded her way through the crowd and now saw the man from the barn talking to Miss Pio. She walked up and stood beside him, waiting patiently to tell him that his bath was ready when he was.

arelendil

01-09-2003, 01:09 PM

Less than a days ride from the pub, Elwen stopped. Her horse Rochel was walking around a birch tree. The tree suddenly whispered to Elwen.

"Hail and well met Maiden of the stars, someone calls to you!" Then the tree once more fell silent.

Elwen turned, looking back along the road she had ridden. Yes there was a voice. A voice she did not know but it called to her. It called her by the name that only few before had ever called her, Arelendil. But it couldn't be him for he was waiting by the shore for her, with the elven ship and rings of shining gold, to bind them. It could not be He, so who had learn of that name?

Rochel was neighing loudly now, trotting back and forth between Elwen and the edge of the path.He wanted to return, what had he sensed.

"Well dear friend, we must go back. I hoped to find more answers before I returned but I shall have to be content for now. Not for nothing do the trees talk, I must return!"

Elwen swang onto her horse. Now dressed in a midnight blue tunic and brown riding boots. Her silver bow made by the elves of Ithilien slung openly upon her back. It sparkled in the light. Her hair was still lose, flying free as she rode fast back along the path, back to the Green Dragon.

As she rode Elwen searched her mind for people who had once called her by her other name. Her master but he was the one who awaited her and with him Nostawen, fair lady of Eryn Lasgalen. Who else...? It didn't matter. Upon the wind Elwen caught a tune, played by a lute like instrument. Sweet it sounded yet distant. A voice called out, words that she had often sang herself drifted around her, urging her onwards.

Elwen arrived at the path leading up to the Green Dragon Inn. Quickly she sprang off Rochel, bringing with her the silver flute. The tune had reach the end of the first verse. Up the steps and throught the door Elwen swiftly ran on quick and nimble elven feet. To join the song was her only thought, she did not notice anything else. Not the musician nor the person who was only now finishing the first verse. Had the wind had deceived her, bring the tune faster than the player or had she imagined it?

Elwen joined the song taking up the words of the second verse.

[ January 09, 2003: Message edited by: arelendil ]

Himaran

01-09-2003, 01:30 PM

Bali was much relieved to see Dona appear with his ale. "Thank you, m'lady."

Smiling at him, she equired what Eruantalon would like. Stepping forward, Bali said "Allow me to order for you, my friend."

He (Bali) turned to Dona and said "Let my friend have a pint of that ale you gave me, it was so good I had to ask for another even before I was finished with my first!" Dona left with the order, and of course another smile.

[ January 09, 2003: Message edited by: Himaran ]

Nurumaiel

01-09-2003, 01:41 PM

"I might not be the only tough one around here, but I'm tougher than you are," said Don stubbornly. "And your hair is awfully red."

Nuru hurriedly stepped out of the kitchen to laugh for a moment, and heard a young hobbit girl introduce herself as Robin. "Another Robin," said Nuru as she approached the lass.

"Excuse me," said Nuru to Robin. "I just happened to overhear what your name was. Robin, didn't you say?"

When the hobbit girl nodded, Nuru burst out laughing. "Oh, well, you see, I have a friend called Robin as well. Fortunately she's not here right now, or we might have utter confusion-" here Nuru winked to show she was just joking on that "-but might I ask you... what's you last name? The other Robin, who isn't here right now, is a Brandybuck, so when I speak of her I'll say Robin B., so you won't think I'm saying all those horrible things about you."

"Horrible?" asked Robin, confused.

"We're very old friends, so we like to tease each other," replied Nuru. "Are you hungry? I can get you some late breakfast, if you'd like."

Eruantalon

01-09-2003, 02:01 PM

After saying this to Bali he looked over to Arendill."So the instrument called you back to the song Star maiden."

Her eyes looked at him in question."But Arendill do you think you could carry your silver bow and flute and go unnoticed by me?For that is your true name is't it?So many songs and tales I have heard of you.Last night as I did the dishies I longed to hear your song."

She now looked at him half amused and half estranged."Ah but how would I know so much of you your thinking.Well this instrument was made by a Maier of Lorien of the Valar.Any of the immortal race that hear it like yourself are called.Even Yanvannas trees sway under its song.It calls to them to.So before I even started to play you where called by it."

He said now chuckling to himself.She looked suprised and amused by his words.

"Long ago I had a dream of beautifull golden trees Arendill.They where on the south eastern side of a great ancient pit wrought by Dwarfs in a mountain.So I knew this was Moria.I traveled there and saw the tender Mallon trees and they swayed under my song with this instrument."Her eyes open wide at attentions of this tale.

"But there are many servents of the lord and lady of Lothlorien there.They patrol the forrests.They heard my song and came onto me.They said that I must be tighed and binded for none can enter the forrest without permission.So I kneeled dow and put my hands behind my back.So allowing them to bind me.I said if death be my penalty then so be it for the sight of these fair trees in my life is worth losing my life.They thought me a strange man and took me off to there haven."

"Now blind folded and tied I whent before the lord and lady.Galadriel hald a relic of a sword but still sharp bright and true to my neck."With that he showed her his sword.

"This vary one in my hand.So she asked what busness I had in her forrest.I told her of the dream and my love for Arda and that I could not live without seeing them once.So she said you have said you would gladly die now is the test of your words.Are you ready to be slain for a tree.Say no and I will not cut you down where you stand.So I relpied if I have done any wrong then I shall be slain.But I ask not here.Do not mar this haven of trees with blood.It deserves it not."

"Gladriel looked at me strangely and then the lord said that I have not gone unnoticed.My song had been calling all of Lothlorien to it.So they tought that it was a spell or enchantment of some kind.I then reaveled my instrument to them.Gladriels breath was taken away.She said she only saw maiers play on these no man had ever even seen one let alone played one."

"So they wanted my answer for this I told them the story of my life and how it came to me.Then they saw I was no enemy.For 4 days night and day I played to all the people of Lothlorien.The strength of that haven can help anyone in arda find peace.So I then became a friend of the Lord and Lady.But they looked as confused and dismayed as you did just now Arendill.For they knew not how or why they where called.But even the waters,stones,eath,fire,people,maier,and valer are set to pleasure when this instrument is played."

piosenniel

01-09-2003, 02:50 PM

Pio thanked the man who had sung the song for her. It had lightened her mood somewhat. She turned from the south facing window where she stood collecting her jumbled thoughts, looking for Cami.

There she stood, reading a letter of her own. 'Must be pleasant news.' thought Pio, watching her friend's smile grow wider as she read along. She saw Cami glance her way, and she motioned for the Elf to come over to her.

'Tell me your news, Cami. It looks to be good from the expression on your face. And when you're done, I want to consult with you about the letter I received.'

She placed the slim envelope from Mithadan in Cami's hand, bidding her sit down with her while she read it.

Pipperin

01-09-2003, 03:08 PM

After speaking with Elanor, a hobbit lass walked up to her. Pipperin thought she recongnised her, but wasn't quite sure.

Hello miss...I am called robin. If I may ask, what is your name?

Pipperin looked over at the hobbit happily "My name is Pipperin Took, pleased to meet you! Do you live in this area?"
She smiled and put out her hand.

Eruantalon

01-09-2003, 03:58 PM

Laurie listened to the story that he was telling Elwen.After he was done witch did't take to long.She said"Your bath is ready sir"

He responded"Thank you I'll be there in a couple of minutes.You can call me Erulon sir is to formal for me.Your name is Laurie right Cami told me.Now that we are intraduced you can come over for a song or chat when you like."

[ January 09, 2003: Message edited by: Eruantalon ]

theWhiteLady

01-09-2003, 04:30 PM

The lady in white had listened politely as the man from the barn talked of people unknown to her ears, and places that were but a legend in her land. When he turned to her, she replied with a curtsy.

"Yes, my name is Laurie, sir- er, I mean Erulon. I'm afraid I have never learned such beautiful songs as the one you just played. I confess that it quite swept me along and for a moment, the melody reminded me of a river of silver and gold flowing through lands unseen by mortal eyes." Laurie shook her head, embarrassed. "I'm sorry to prattle on, but Elvish music does seem to effect people that way. I could listen to it all through the night and day."

Just as Erulon opened his mouth to reply, a small sandy-haired boy wandering by caught Laurie's eye. He seemed to be looking for someone in charge and upon a second glance, Laurie realized, with a gasp, why.

Himaran

01-09-2003, 04:38 PM

Then Eruantalon turned to Bali. "Mayhaps we should find ourselves a table. After all that dancing and singing, it has become to hot over here by the fire. Besides, I am sure we have much more to tell to one another about our travels."

"A wonderful idea," said Bali. "Let us take our ales and find a table."

And so they moved across the room to one of the few vacant ones, and proceeded to sit and chat. They talked primarily about their home, Erebor, and what was happening there and in neighboring lands.

But finally Eruantalon said to Bali, "I believe that I have said enough, for a little while at least. Now then, tell me about your journey from home to here. Few dwarves enjoy the prospect of long travels, but you do, and must have mamy tales to tell about your trip."

Bali then said, "Well, we dwarves are not known to be story tellers any more than we are to be travelers, but If it is what my friend wishes, I can tell you many a story about my journey."

Bali was, in fact, an excellent story teller, but always was trying to be modest. He detested boastful people. He began his story.

Orual

01-09-2003, 05:32 PM

"Oh, nice to have such loyal friends," Rie muttered, grinning to herself and trying to hide it from Don. Nuru and Dona had both left the room, leaving Rie alone to try and cope with the stubborn lass.

"You know," she said, turning back to Don, "red hair is a sign of toughness. If my hair is awfully red then I'm awfully tough."

The girl gave her a dry look. "That's stupid," she said.

"Is not," Rie countered playfully, but Don seemed in no mood to play.

"Why don't you just leave me alone?" the girl demanded, scowling at Rie.

"Because I don't know what's good for me, and I can never leave anybody alone, least of all somebody who's so much like me."

That didn't help matters. "I'm not like you!" Don shouted, making it sound like there was nobody in the world she'd be less glad to be like.

"Oh, sure you are," Rie said. "You're a lot like me. Stubborn, irritable, unwilling to admit when you're wrong--"

"But I'm not wrong," Don insisted.

" 'Course you're not," replied Rie. "Isn't that what I just said?"

"What?" asked Don, puzzled. "Isn't what what you just said?"

"That you'll never say you're wrong."

Don scowled harder. "Now you're just trying to confuse me!"

"Well, is it working?" Rie asked, crossing her arms. She hoped that Nuru came back soon; she wanted her to see this. This was Rie in her element: arguing.

[ January 09, 2003: Message edited by: Orual ]

Carrûn

01-09-2003, 07:18 PM

Awyrgan sat in a surprised silence. It has long been since music lightened my heart, if but for a short moment. He marveled at the instrument of the bard for it was like none he had seen before.

But that is not part of my tale, he told himself and went back to planning the details of his next travel. He looked up and happened to spot the scrawny sandy-haired boy wandering around almost with some uncertantity. That boy was never nervious before. Strange, perhaps the music touched him in some manner. He had better find someone to clean that cut out or I will take him outside and do it myself.

Nurumaiel

01-09-2003, 07:33 PM

Don turned her back on Rie and began eating her breakfast, muttering things under her breath. When she had finished, she turned back and said hotly, "Well, at least I don't go bragging about how tough I am!"

"Don't you?" asked Rie.

"No," said Don, then she stopped. "Well... NO, I DON'T!" The last three words were practically screamed.

Rie hid another smile. The girl had been close to admitting that she had bragged before. "Oh, I see," said Rie in a voice that told Don everything Rie thinking.

"NO, I DON'T!" she yelled again, louder this time. Rie clapped a hand over her mouth and whispered in her ear, "Quiet, or you'll be in trouble."

"What can you do to me?" asked Don defiantly.

"Oh, I won't do anything to you. That dwarf over there will." Rie pointed to the dwarf bearing the axe.

Something wavered in Don's eyes, but then the hobbit girl raised her chin and said, "Oh, I could show him a thing or two."

"There, you're bragging!" said Rie triumphantly.

Don rolled her eyes and glared even harder at Rie.

Sword Maiden Of The Shire

01-09-2003, 07:33 PM

"We're very old friends, so we like to tease each other," replied Nuru. "Are you hungry? I can get you some late breakfast, if you'd like."

Robin laughed at this and smiled "Yes, I am like that myself once in a while." She looked up as she heard another Hobbit introduce herself.

Pipperin looked over at the hobbit happily "My name is Pipperin Took, pleased to meet you! Do you live in this area?"
She smiled and put out her hand.

"Indeed!" laughed Robin "I am a Took as well!" she said brightly to Pipperin.

She looked over at Nuru, the porrige seemed ages ago and had left her mouth in much need of a drink "Yes,I have already had breakfast but now I think I am in need if a drink may I please get, if it is not too much trouble, a glass of stawberry cordial?".

[ January 09, 2003: Message edited by: Sword Maiden Of The Shire ]

Nurumaiel

01-09-2003, 07:39 PM

"At once," said Nurumaiel, and she went off to the kitchen. She almost burst out laughing, for she saw Don glaring angrily and Rie and Rie looking quite cool and collected.

"Do you need anything?" Rie asked quickly.

"Oh, no," said Nuru. "Miss Robin Took wants something to drink and I'm going to get it for her."

"Yuck, drinks!" said Don, trying to sound rude.

"You couldn't live without them, miss," said Rie.

Nuru hurried out of the kitchen laughing, and approached Robin. "Here's you drink, Miss Took," she said. "Have a seat and see what there is to see, hear what there is to hear. There are many interesting tales to be told, and songs to be sung." With that, Nuru went back into the kitchen to watch the argument between Don and Rie.

Sword Maiden Of The Shire

01-09-2003, 08:12 PM

"Thank-you Miss" replied Robin kindly to Nuru. At that moment, she watched her rush back to settle a disagreement with two guests.

She now turned to Pipperin, "No, I am quite a long ways from my home in Hobbiton". She spotted a vacant chair and sat down "And you?" she asked gesturing for her to join her.

[ January 10, 2003: Message edited by: Sword Maiden Of The Shire ]

theWhiteLady

01-09-2003, 08:20 PM

As Erulon was swept to a table with his dwarf friend, Laurie intercepted the young boy passing by.

"Excuse me, young man," she said, her brows knitted in concern. "I think that wound needs looking after."

The boy, at first suprised, readily assented so they went back into the kitchen together. Laurie was not very good at healing, but she did her best and tried not to hurt the child. The cut wasn't as deep as she first thought, and she added a drop of liquid from a round green bottle dug out of her pocket.

"Now then," she said with a smile as she put a small, white bandage over the gash. "That looks much tidier. Is there anything else I can get you? Food or drink perhaps?"

Carrûn

01-09-2003, 08:32 PM

Awyrgan noted with some satisfaction that the boy was finally getting his cut attended to. Now as long as he doesn't blab, he thought as he drifted back into a semi-sleep.

...

"That looks much tidier. Is there anything else I can get you? Food or drink perhaps?"

The boy fingered the bandage a bit, almost as if he was picking at a scab. He grinned. "You're nicer than my friend. Prettier too; he's ugly."

"I'd like a drink." He grinned again and his green eyes shone with childish pride. "I've had one already." He sat swinging his feet against the counter where he sat. "Do you have apples?" he asked.

[ January 09, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

theWhiteLady

01-09-2003, 09:44 PM

"You're nicer than my friend. Prettier too; he's ugly."

Laurie grinned back at the boy and talked while she fixed his drink.

"Your friend is that mysterious man over there? I noticed him when he came inside; it always makes me sad to see anyone with a heart so heavy. Maybe you can cheer him up. Oh, and don't pull at that bandage!" She smacked his hand away lightly and handed him a rather large tankard and a few shiny apples.

"What's your name, young lad?" Laurie inquired curiously. She poured herself a drink and sat down beside him.

Carrûn

01-09-2003, 09:57 PM

"Your friend is that mysterious man over there?"

The boy glanced over to where Awyrgan sat brooding the fire. "Yup."

"Cheer him up?" He gave a rather non-childlike snort. "I doubt it, he'd probably kill me if I tried. He's good at that sort of thing." He took a large noisy bite from one of the apples.

"What's your name, young lad?"

"Oh I don't really have a name," he said in a matter of fact way. "Encai...Awyrgan said I could call myself Nárello. He calls me little úlfr." He sat for a while taking large sips from the tankard watching Awyrgan across the room as if looking for a silent nod of approval. But the man's hood was tilted forward and he slept. Nárello grinned again. "Look at him, you'd think he was asleep." He looked at the lady in a mock serious fashion. "You think if I throw something at him he'd catch it? He caught me taking one of his kni..things when I thought he was sleeping." He grinned cheekily.

[ January 11, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

Strider

01-09-2003, 11:58 PM

SAVED for re-worked post

[ January 10, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Everdawn

01-10-2003, 02:52 AM

Umbria the elven stood at the bar and drank 3 straight galsses of spirits."why am i cursed wiht death of thoes around me?, first Augenden, then Phellodan, and now Niquinion!."

She then took a forth galss of spirits and began to walk back to sit by Awrygan. She looked over to the dwarves and frowned.

She stood in the middle of the floor and dropped her galss. Splatters of colour smeared the bottom of her light blue dress missing her cloak. She took some water off one of the tables and then washed it off.

Umbria then noticed the cloaked stranger, "strider" she said. "its about time, tell me, for you are a ranger are you not?" She stood on a chair and yelled in a mix of grief and anger "and all you other rangers here or otherwise! where were you when orcs attacked and hath slain my kinsman?! are you not sent here to keep the roads free of them?!" Umbria swayed and then fell to the floor.

Carrûn

01-10-2003, 08:20 AM

Awyrgan awoke with a start to shouts of grief and anger. He recognized Umbria's voice.

"Where were you when orcs attacked and hath slain my kinsman?! Are you not sent here to keep the roads free of them?!"

He watched as she fell to the floor. Time seemed to stand still and no one moved. Aye, where were they. And where was I when orcs and the wild men attacked my villege. Why was I alone left alive only to return and discover the ashes. Too few are left to deal to so much evil. All the memories he had pushed away deep inside came flooding back out and he was wracked with sorrow. He face twisted with pain.

He stood gradually, like a dark omnious shadow. Slowly he walked to where Umbria lay and people parted in front of him. He picked her up gently and carried her back to a seat in the corner away from the eyes of the onlookers. One man followed too closely and Awyrgan fixed him with a whithering green-eyed stare that sent him stumbling backwards. Then he waited for her to awaken.

She stirred and looked about her. Awyrgan paused as he gathered his words and then he spoke. He seemed to have aged years and his shoulders were slumped again. The haunted look was back in his bright eyes. "I do not pretend to know your grief - all are different. But I know how it is to loose your kin. Do not lay this blame on those who already struggle with such matters; please." He waited for her reaction and, getting none, spoke again. "I am sorry for your loss. And to answer your question, I am not a Ranger but I have had dealing with their kind. Nearly all of them carry some sorrow such as you must bear." He sat back in his own chair and waited for her to speak.

[ January 10, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

theWhiteLady

01-10-2003, 08:54 AM

"I doubt it, he'd probably kill me if I tried. He's good at that sort of thing."

Laurie raised her eyebrows slightly at the young boy's comment and nonchalant attitude. I wonder if he's joking...she thought. A glance into the corner at the man the boy called Awyrgan made her decide he most likely wasn't. There was a barely perceptible tenseness in his attitude; Laurie fancied he seemed like he was watching them though his eyes were closed.

"Oh I don't really have a name," he said in a matter of fact way. "Enc...Awyrgan said I could call myself Nárello. He calls me little úlfr."

The lady in white opened her eyes wide again and was barely able to catch herself from speaking out of suprise. "Nárello is a nice name," she said instead with a smile.

"Look at him, you'd think he was asleep." He looked at the lady in a mock serious fashion. "You think if I throw something at him he'd catch it? He caught me taking one of his kni..things when I thought he was sleeping." He grinned cheekily.

Laurie grinned at Nárello's impudence, but cautioned, "I wouldn't throw that if I were you. Besides, he looks tired; he could do with a rest." But just as those words left her mouth, another young lady stood up on a chair and began shouting at Awyrgan. She swayed from side to side, drunk from too much wine and with grief. Laurie watched Awyrgan scoop her up and carry her easily to where he again sat, and begin to talk to her in a low voice. What a very odd man,she mused. Still, I hazard it wouldn't be too wise to pry into his business, as intruiging as it is. Laurie had not forgotten the incident in the loft. She turned again to the child sitting beside her.

"Where is your home, Nárello? Do you come from around these parts?"

Himaran

01-10-2003, 09:10 AM

(Bali's story, as told by Bali to Eruantalon, and anyone else listening)

"I'll have you know, my friend, that few dwarves ever venture through Mirkwood. It is a dangerous forest, with only one true road leading through it. If you stray off the path but a little, you will never find it again.

I was lucky, however, in the fact that I was a friend of King Thranduil, and the Wood elves living there. Look at this knife, here."

Bali pulled a long, thin and slightly curved knife out of a hidden sheath. "Few dwarves have ever seen the beauty of an elven dagger. This was a gift to me, from the King when I left Mirkwood. I was given safe passage, through those dark woods. But
that means little, as the tale has no adventure or excitement in it, and thus makes no kind of story. But after I left the edges of Mirkwood, I traveled alone, passing over hill and dale, through many
strange places.

Finally, however, I arrived at the roots of the Misty Mountains. It was my goal to pass to the other side, somehow. But there was no known way. I could not pass over them, alone and with the gear I had brought.

And so I resolved to pass through the Mines of Moria. I had heard rumors of what it was like, but had never been there before. And had never heard of the evil that awaited me.

As I past through the eastern gate, and descended the first level of steps, what awaited me there but a small group of orcs. They being as surprised as me, but I recovering from it quicker, the fight was brief. But as I continued down several more rows of steps, my heart slumping lower with each, I found what could not be imagined.

The bridge, the Bridge of Khazad-Dum, which I had longed to see since I had heard stories of it as a child, was in ruin. The eastern half jutted out part-way over the chasm, but the western half was gone!

Futher more, as I cried out in horror, a multitude of orcs appeared uppon the western side, and launched a volley of what I presumed were poisened shafts (they usually are). I am not proud of the fact,
but seeing as they were too far away to hit with an axe, I fled from the mines.

I still wished to go across the mountains, but it seemed all passes through it which I knew were blocked. Thus, I decided that if nothing else, I would go south, and see what lands lay near the sea.

As I went south, following the eastern side of the mountains, I eventually came to a great forest. Having only ever seen it on maps, I came to believe it to be Lorien. Not knowing that most of its people had left for the grey havens, I was "uncomfortable" with passing through it, and thus went around the eastern side.

When I got back to the mountains, I found that not many days after I had passed around Lorien, I had arrived at yet another large forest. Fangorn. Not only uncomfortable but more so terrified of that
forest, I once again went around it.

As I finally found the mountains beyond it, I came to a lake, which was surrounded by an emmense ring of broken stone. In the center of that lake, was a huge tower. It seemed as high as the very peak of the largest mountain in the earth. Black it was, like its name: Orthanc, on time home of the wizard Saruman. It is now controlled
by men of the king, clearing the stone and building a causeway over the lake to the tower. Having no reason to stop there, I continued past it, coming at last to a break in the mountains. I have been told it was called the Gap of Rohan.

From there I traveled north, at last finding the Old South Road. Following it It lead to me at last to a split. One side went Northeast, the other side went Northwest. I took the west path, not
wanting to go back to the mountains. And one fine day following that road, I came to this happy land called the Shire, and found my way along the dusty road to this very inn where we now sit."

Bali proceeded to cough loudly several times, then looked around him. "Is there a place I could get another ale, my friend. My throught is absolutely parched."

Carrûn

01-10-2003, 09:25 AM

"Where is your home, Nárello? Do you come from around these parts?"

The boy shook his head. "No. My home was up North. Was." he added softly and for a moment he looked very much like the small boy that he was. "Awyrgan found me," he continued. "And now I follow him." His grin returned. "Even when he doesn't want me to. When I see him I tell him things I see and then he teaches me things. About the trees and such." He smiled. "Most people don't think a child a threat to their conversations. Many have learned otherwise."

He looked up at her again with pride in his eyes. "I have quick eyes and ears and can move without being seen. I can survive on my own." She started to say something but he continued. "But it is lonely sometimes though, and animals seldom talk. Neither does Awyrgan when I see him. He moves like a shadow." He laughed. "I thought he was a ghost the first time I saw him, like the tales my mother told me to make me go to bed." Realizing how he had just spoken his voice trailed off and he quickly began to pay attention to the apples and the drink in ernest.

[ January 10, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

Finiel

01-10-2003, 10:45 AM

For quite some time Sarah had been sleeping in her little table in a corner of the common room of the Green Dragon. Her dreaming was disturbed by a bump of someone who was delivering ales to her neighboring 'inn mates'.

Mug still in hand, she couldn't remember her pleasant dreams now, "Thanks for that nasty bump" she thought. Though her sight was still blurry from her long nap Sarah noticed through the voices around her that new people had entered the inn and others were still there ever since she set foot in the common room.
"I wonder if there are still people who wash a ton of dishes because of their one-liners?" she wondered. Feeling a cramp in her legs she stretched and yawned (with out letting anybody see her) and combed her hair. Then she went to the bar to catch some conversation and ordered a cup of tea.

arelendil

01-10-2003, 10:55 AM

The songs had once more stopped. Everyone had disappeared to a table and Elwen was left standing in the middle of the room. She nervously played with her flute, running her fingers over the shining metal. Elwen glanced around the pub, but she saw no one she knew well enough to invade their conversation and so settled for a stool at the bar.

Oh how Elwen wished she had left her bow outside with Rochel. It was too obvious in the crowded pub. And yet she didn't for though she had owned it but a few days, she was deeply attached to it, it being the only reminder of her master except of course the simple silver ring upon the finger of her left hand. Elwen had hoped to find that Soronume had returned but she could tell that he had not been back since she had left before.

Elwen let her mind wander back and forth. The new stranger confused her. He had a compelling voice and an instrument like none she had ever seen upon Arda. There had been a similar shaped instrument when she had been in the sky, but that was long ago and the memories dim. How did he know of her name though? Arelendil, few had ever called her that! Her master long ago had named her Elwen, signifing that she was a star maiden. Only Nostawen had ever called her Arelendil, Noble star friend. She had always given her name to be Elwen whenever she met anyone! So how did he know?

Elwen gave up on the mystery and left her mind to wander freely through space and time. It surprised her greatly when she found she was talking aloud.

"Why did I let him go ahead." Elwen spoke in a sorrowful whisper. Though she knew the answer, it conforted her to think of it again. For from the sadness and grief of the parting there came new hope, great beyond measure. How clearly she could see him, standing upon the shore, his eyes burning green, his hair of silver whipping around him in the cool sea air. Elwen knew that this was more than her imagination, she knew that he really was waiting for her, standing on the last shore. Torn between waiting for her and the voices that called across the sundering sea.

She knew he would wait. The bonds that had pulled her from the night sky were unbreakable and the teachings of his people also held him. Silver rings bound them together. Elwen moved her hand so her ring flashed in the fire light. Gentle she sighed and removed her bow from her back.

The greater powers had lead her back to this Inn when her heart desired to move on. "There must be something I am here to learn," Whispered Elwen, "Else why would the powers have brought me? My Star people and the light of my father Moon will soon show me what it is that I must do!"

[ January 10, 2003: Message edited by: arelendil ]

theWhiteLady

01-10-2003, 12:25 PM

The lady in white gazed down upon the small boy concentrating very hard on his apples. It was easy to see he had had a hard life, and who knew what had happened to his family. Laurie gave a little sigh, and took a drink from her own cup. There was so much pain, so much sorrow...

After a moment's silence, Laurie refilled Nárello's cup. As she poured the drink, her sleeve slipped down and revealed a delicate bracelet of intertwining silver and green. The next moment, it was hidden as she set the cup down.

"I do not know the plans of your friend over there, but I may be able to arrange it with the innkeeper for you to sleep in a proper bed for the night. You and him both look as though you would benefit from a proper rest," she added, her blue eyes twinkling.

Carrûn

01-10-2003, 12:35 PM

Nárello glanced over to where Awyrgan was sitting by the fire talking to the elf lady. "He won't be staying past the evening - it's not his way. He likes to walk under the stars for some reason; he wouldn't ever tell me why. Besides, he hardly ever sleeps."

He put on his "tough" face (which looked surprisingly realistic). "I do not need proper rest," he said. But his head sagged a little and he eventually gave in. "I guess a bed would be nice as long as I can leave in the morning. And no washing dishes." He gave his best puppy-dog stare.

piosenniel

01-10-2003, 01:09 PM

‘Tomorrow evening, Cami?’ Pio’s brow furrowed, and her hand went up to rub the back of her neck. Cami recognized the inauspicious sign. ‘I am so sorry, but I cannot let you have it off.’ Cami’s face fell, and her bottom lip trembled. ‘Is there no other evening you can arrange to take off? Any other evening than tomorrow would do.’ She took her friend’s hands in hers. ‘I need you here to run the Inn for me. I will be away. Some business to attend to.’

Earlier in the day, Amaranthas Bolger had sent her great grandson, Milo, to the Inn with an invitation for Pio to attend her at dinner – Amaranthas’ place tomorrow evening. When Pio had heard him out, she said she must check her schedule to see if she might come. Milo gasped at this answer, and blanched. ‘Your pardon,’ Ms. Pio, he said, ‘but Great-grandmama said I was to wait until you told me what time you might arrive. And no one ignores what She asks them to do.’ Milo held his ground before the Elf, hands behind his back, fidgeting nervously. He had no intention of facing the old dragon with Pio’s present answer.

The Elf laughed, setting him somewhat at ease. ‘So, the Old Dragon, has issued more of a command appearance, than an invitation, has she?’ Milo’s face turned beet red, and he dropped his gaze to floor, studying intently the wood’s grains. He wondered if it were true that Elves had a tricksy way of picking up the thoughts of others. He had heard so from Great-grandmama. He looked up hopefully at Pio. Her grey eyes held his, and she nodded her head in assent.

‘Tell her I will attend her at four in the afternoon. I shall bring some wine, and we can loosen our tongues before we eat.’ Smiling warmly at him, she gave him a few small coins for his time, and sent him on his way.

Milo bobbed his head at her, and scurried toward the door, eager to get the return message delivered and a bag of sweets for himself and his mates to share. He was nearly out the door when he heard her last words to him.

‘And Milo . . . tell her it’s not a tricksy way, at all!’

Eruantalon

01-10-2003, 02:16 PM

The story of Ungta the wicked cave spider

"well your journy has taken you vary far and long my friend.I will tell you of my recent errond for your uncle."He now came in closer to his friend so he could hear him.

Long ago when the great work of Dwarfs was not called Moria there was a happyer time for the people of Middel Earth.In the second age when Moria was still vary alive and joyus.There lived a prince of there lordshoip.You know him Bali his name was Khadzul.He whent ever into the deeps of the mountains far north,and south where Moria lies.Always looking for new treasures in the earth.

Then one day far north of his kin he found an astounishing thing.In serect he took more than ten score of ten dwarfs with him.He told only few what he was doing.But alas after two seasons there was no word from him ever after.

Now many speculate about his deeds, and what happen.But none can say for sure.Ah now one thing was known about his leave.He took fine craftman with him.Dwarfs that made anvil and hammer sing loudly, and with great power.

So time whent on, more than ten years passed when finaly the fight against Sauron was started.Then finaly the ancient curse was awokened in Moria.There was never one Dwarf that looked apon there great works, as it was of old, again!

Your uncle knew of Khadzul, in the lore of your people.So I was visiting him when the deed was at hand to recover what was lost.Hearing of this I volunteered for the task.So your uncle and fother where please with the outlook of it.They sent almost thirty of your kindred, and people.

So we made our way towards the nothern mountians.We only knew that it was in the high north of that region.As we search for weeks we found a pass into the mountains of Gundabad south of the mountains of Angmar.There was a hidden vale there,at the base a few leags north.

We traveled down deep into the root of that dark mound.Many twists and turns there where. We marked our passes on the stone walls beside us.Yet we still found ourself going in circles for days.Till one day through a series of twist and turns we found ourselfs in a thin tunnel, that was mared with ancient weapons.To make it large enough for Dwarfs to get through.

After spending hours traveling down this trail.We where taken aback by the sight before us.With our laterns we could see ever up wards, and out, in every direction.As far as our light would show us.Then great lanterns of old, and mighty fires where lit to see into the darkness.

We searched for what seemed like days there.But there was no count of time in this place.Only the memory of old and forgotten things.Finaly we found what seemed to be many Dwarfs caught in a great battel.But none of there armour seemed familar to me.The rest of the company knew.It was the work of the Dwarf of Moria in ancient times.So we knew we had found the princes company.

As we searched on some of my company payed closer attenshion to the walls of the cavern.There breath was taken away.For we had only lit the entrance with light.As the rest of the company search the hollows with torches.One gave a mighty cry of joy and bid us all to come near.As we came closer the wall of the cavern flickered with light.Jewels of all color shape and size.Some where of the finest exampels any of us had ever seen.some where vary flawed compared to the orthers.

Still we knew why Khadzul was there with so many.There where books and tools that none had seen before.The books listed the items and amount of eveything that was taken,or made in the canern.Also there where journals of eveything that had happened in this place.We gatered up the bodys and weapons there.Witch where of the finest of craft by Dwarfs.Many of the Dwarfs remains where long gone and only armour was left.So we gatered everything that was rought by them or was in there possion.While this was going on I noticed there where only close to a hundred in the company.But there where still many missing,for in the lore it was said there where over ten score of ten.

Still we found not the remains of the prince.No weapons bearing his name none of the armour that is described that he wore.No trace of him at all.So while many where starting to bring the remains and treasure to the top I and fifteen of my companions whent deeper into the cave to look for the prince.The farther we whent inn the more amazed where we, for the jewls where only part of the treasure of this cave.

One of my companions Ubrick layed his hand on a great vain of metal.So then it fell like it was struck with a great pick.To the ground.The wealth of this cavern was not in its treasures, witch where great.But the easy of retiving them.For the walls,and ground where soft.So it was easy to pull away what was there.

Then one spoke up and said "The Langwell, and the Greylin flow not far from here.Long ago before even Khazuls time it could have flowed under this mountain.Depositing all that we see in the debry of the river base.

Kadzul had found what he had long looked for.In Moria there where greater riches, but none as easly taken as these.So we traveled on and on under the mountain.Till we found a corner hidden away where terribal webs where spun.There in the nets and darkness was the kindred that we where searching for.But a darkness was stirring.Ancient, and evil, it awoke now saying."What has come now to my long lived ears.Is it pray for me to taste.So long has it been since I tasted the the flesh of dwarf or men.Maybe it is the first born, so sweet is there flesh.You will pay greatly for entering the dwelling of Ungta."She hissed in a gurgel of moans that echoed in the cavern.

So we gathered the remains of the prince and his companions.Quickly now we hurried out of here webs.My sword cleaved her nets to open the way.As we retreated she availed us.Now high and tall.As the hight of three tall men she was.But palest white from so many ages in that place.She was not as strong as she was in Khadzuls time.It had been long since she had sustence, and was weary from age.

Still she was vary strong and large.Strong enough in her day to fight off all of Khadzuls people.But she was not to win agian not as long as this sword lay beside me.

All at once we attacked her.The axs of the Dwarf did not pierce her.With the torhche by my side I drew my bow.My arrows are fine and where made for me by your people Bali.They can pierce enven Orc amour through and thfough.To hit and pierce another.My bow as you know was hewed in Gondolin long ago.But only ten of these special arrows do I have.They are hard to make and take long to do so.

With that Erulon took out one from his quiver in his pack.As he blew air apon it it rang out loudly now with a piercing high pitch like a reed of steal.So you see they can even pierce stone.But only when shot from a bow like I have with me.But a fool would do so for how would you get it back.Still I have not a great amout of them ,and the darkness was all about.

She moved about thrashing here,and there from the Dwarfs surrounding her.I missed more than onece.But after a few shots she was steady for a moment.I took aim apon her eye.It flew stright and true.It pierced one of her many eyes,and deep into her head.

Now dazed and angry she pounded, hissed, and growled.Then one of the company, Omli cut into her neck with a mighty swing.She stoped moving long enough for me to push down my blade into her hart.There she lays dead still in the cavern.Her blood green and foul smelling,fills the cavern as we speak.It almost burt my havd as I drove my sword into her.

I gatered up my missing arrows,and recovered the rest of the missing company of Khadzuls.We bore him and all of his company back to Erebor.When we told the lord of the happenings he was over joyed none where slayed.He gave great thanks for my help in this journy.But he bid that though the treasurs in the cavern where great.None should seek them.For hardship and pain where rought into that place.

Then the great festival began witch is still going on now.The storys,food, songs,and merryment.Joy of a great deed done,and none lost of there kindred.The great treasures found that where thought gone forever.Still your fother and uncle are reading over the tombs that we found in the cavern.For a reward they lent me this great ax Bali.

Now holding it up Balis eyes opened up wide."Mithril my friend such a gift."

"Yes bali but I looked for no reward.His lordship bid me take it by his order.For you see I have two weapons as it is."As he said this he handed the ax to Bali.Twisting the handel in his hand to make the ax head spin.

"It is like air in the hand my friend.It wistels in the air as to a green switch."He said this with a few practice swings.

"Yes it was found on one of the men we brought back.See how it can be wielded with one hand.A fair thing for such a long doubbel headed ax."Now receiving the ax back from him.

"But our task was only achived becuse Ungta was so old."As he said this he knew he still had yet to take his bath.Witch he wanted before lunch.

"Now Bali would you beleive they have made me wash dishes,and sleep in a barn in this inn."While saying this Bali let out a great laugh.

"I smell don't I?There is a bath awaiting me.I'll leave you for a few moment to take it.But promise to be back."As he said this he got up whent off to his bath.

The water was still warm and the soap felt good.Oh now if only he had a bed for his next night.One can only hope he thought to himself.
THE CORRECTED TALE IS NOW UP

[ January 13, 2003: Message edited by: Eruantalon ]

[ January 13, 2003: Message edited by: Eruantalon ]

Child of the 7th Age

01-10-2003, 02:53 PM

Cami listened with half an ear to the tale of Ungta, the wicked cave spider. It was a good tale, a very good tale, spoken with grace and assurance. But still her heart was not in it.

It didn't seem that anything she did ever worked out. She went banging down stairwells, head over heels, or sailed off on adventures, where her only reward was to carry away a boatload of grief and heartache. I seem to have an uncanny knack, she thought, for running into dead ends.

She had so wanted to go back to Hobbiton and to see Bag-end again. It had been many years since she was there. And more important than all that was being able to throw her arms about Bilbo and to meet with Frodo and Samwise.

Was there no other way? No glimmer of hope? If only Bird were here, she was sure she would offer to substitute in her place, but Bird was far away fighting against the evils of Lord Sheetrock. Cami lowered her head into her hand and thought long and hard for a minute.

A misty outline of a plan began to form in Cami's brain. She couldn't get away from the Inn, even today, but Mistress Laurie could, and she had a pony to go galloping over the lanes. She looked anxiously about, searching for Laurie. Her eyes came to rest on a table where Laurie and a child were sitting.

She hurriedly scribbbled a note and scampered over to the table, "Laurie, this is urgent. Could you take your pony and ride towards Hobbiton? Take this note to Master Bilbo Baggins at Bag-end. The letter says that there is no way I may leave the Inn tomorrow night, but that he and Frodo and Samwise and his brood are most welcome to hold their little party here. Of course, it will be my treat."

Laurie scrunched her nose and looked hesitently at Miss Cami, "But have you talked to Pio about this?"

"Not exactly, but Miss Pio will understand, I think. Anyways, Frodo and Sam are quite the heroes now, and we may get a spurt of business out of it with everyone wanting to come in and see them. Let me worry about that. Just deliver this note, and have them bring the message right back. And if you want a favor done now or anytime else, I will be in your debt."

theWhiteLady

01-10-2003, 03:06 PM

Laurie couldn't help but laugh at as Nárello pulled what he thought was a pitiful face, but in reality looked rather ridiculous.

"I'll talk to Pio then. You can help me in the stables later to pay for your room. Which reminds me," and Laurie stood up at this. "I still have chores to do! You can stay down here or help me clean the rooms upstairs. No washing dishes," she added with a wink and smile.

But just at that moment, Cami came scrambling over bearing a note.

"Not exactly, but Miss Pio will understand, I think. Anyways, Frodo and Sam are quite the heroes now, and we may get a spurt of business out of it with everyone wanting to come in and see them. Let me worry about that. Just deliver this note, and have them bring the message right back. And if you want a favor done now or anytime else, I will be in your debt."

"Of course I'll go, Cami. It won't take long for Nell and I to make the trip. Oh, but Cami" Laurie added with a glance at the boy beside her. "This is Nárello, a friend of our mysterious stranger in the corner. He was hoping for a nice bed for the night, you wouldn't mind asking Pio if he could stay for me? And his wound will need to be cleaned again in the morning." Laurie motioned to the bandage over Nárello's forehead.

[ January 10, 2003: Message edited by: theWhiteLady ]

Orual

01-10-2003, 03:10 PM

Rie leaned on the counter, shaking her head and laughing to herself. What a girl, what a manô! Oh, she hadn't had this much fun since her last argument with Talômi. She searched for her next words--in no time she'd have Don laughing along with the rest of them, she was sure of it.

Finally she put her hands on her hips and looked at Don. "Tell me, do you have any brothers?"

Sapphire_Flame

01-10-2003, 03:55 PM

A slender figure slid quietly into the inn, glancing around nervously. Her hood was up, covering her face, and she kept her black cloak drawn tightly around her.

The inn was busy, so almost no one noticed her enter. She breathed a sigh of relief for that, and seated herself in an isolated corner.

And she had hoped to meet few on this journey....

[ January 10, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Beruthiel

01-10-2003, 07:25 PM

Ruth looked around the common room. Everyone was talking to someone. Two newcomers were talking in the corner though they both looked rather grim. Laurie had been talking to a young boy until she was interupted by Cami and Rie was chatting to a young hobbit lass.

She'd been pouring tea all day and was honestly sick of it. She put down the teapot on the counter in the kitchen and pulled of her apron and hung it on the little hooks on the wall.

Walking over to pio she told her she'd had enough and was taking a break, then she ordered a glass of red wine and sat at a table by the window. Her thought wondered to her homeland and then she remembered why she had left it.

'No, don't think about it. Not now...' She said to herself softly, a small tear running down her pale cheek. The server with the wine came up and she hastily wiped away her tear and thanked the bar maid.

[ January 10, 2003: Message edited by: Beruthiel ]

Nurumaiel

01-10-2003, 07:52 PM

"I have five brothers and four sisters," said Don, and then raised her chin pridefully when Nuru looked at her in amazement.

"Five brothers and four sisters?" asked Nuru in shock. "Ten children in your family? Tell me... how did you get so many?"

"My first mum had four boys and me, and then she died and my dad married again and my second mum had one boy and four girls. All the girls are younger than me and they're so wimpy."

"How old are they?" Rie asked. "Your sisters, I mean."

"Two months, two years, three years, and five years," replied Don instantly. "I have a twin brother who was the best, but when my second mum and my dad died, we all had to be split up... even me and my twin. We did all sorts of bad things while we were together, though!"

Nuru looked wickedly at Rie. "Twins always seem to be really horrible people," she said slyly.

Rie laughed and replied, "How about stuck-up elves who don't have any twins?"

Nuru rolled her eyes and looked back at Don, who had been muttering how she wasn't horrible and her 'twin weren't, either.'

"You know my parents are dead," said Nuru.

"So what? That doesn't make you a thing like me! I'm not a stuck-up elf without a twin."

"I think we'd better watch what we say around this girl," said Nuru, looking at Rie. "She's picking up on everything we say."

Don looked indignantly at Nuru. "I'm not pickin' up anything. I'm listenin' to you, though." And Nuru had to laugh.

Orual

01-10-2003, 09:29 PM

Big family, twin brother...Eru ainu, it was almost unreal how much like Rie this child was. Rie whistled low and shook her head.

"Don't shake your head at me," Don snapped. Rie bit back a grin and looked at Nuru.

"Don't give her that look either! I know it's about me!" Don shouted. Rie gave a little exasperated noise.

"It's not all about you," Rie said, giving Don a "you're about to catch it" look. An older sister always knew that look, and since Don was an older sister she understood quite well.

"It's not all about you, either," Don retorted. Apparently though she understood it, she didn't care.

Rie ran both hands through her hair. "Give me patience," she prayed under her breath.

"If you can't handle talking to me, you could just be quiet," suggested Don sweetly. Rie glared at her.

"We could reverse that, darling," Rie said, just as sweetly.

"Don't call me darling," Don said.

"I'll call you darling if I want, darling," Rie replied with a smile.

"I'll call you what I want, then."

"Oh, fire away, darling." Rie sighed and leaned against the wall. "I am sorry about your twin, though," she said, and meant it.

"You don't have to be sorry," Don snapped.

"Well, I am," Rie retorted. "I have a twin too, you know."

"So?" Don asked.

"So, I know what it's like to lose a twin. Talômi and I were--are--very close. It was hard to leave him."

"Try being forced to leave him," Don snapped.

Rie made a face. "Be difficult, then!"

"I will, thank you."

"Augh!" Rie threw her arms into the air. "Nuru, she's too much like me. What can we do with two Talmériës?" She shot her friend a helpless look, but her eyes were sparkling. A challenge!

Evinyatar

01-10-2003, 11:41 PM

Ah! The afternoon sun felt good on his face. He had stopped at the Bywater Pool to rest a while. His back against a sun warmed rock, he let the warm face of Anar shine full upon him, easing the kinks in his aching muscles. It had been a long and dusty trip from the Overbourne Marshes. He looked forward to a clean bed and a pint of nut brown ale from the Green Dragon, just a few more hours hike along the banks of The Water.

‘Best not get too comfortable.’ he said to himself, as he heaved his tired frame up once again. He scooped some water from the pool and washed the dirt from his face, smoothing back his dark hair as he did so. There was little help for his tunic or breeches. Both black, they wore countless layers of dust, and mud stains and various spills. His grey cloak he slung back from his shoulders. His worn, brown leather boots were unbuttoned down to his knees and the cuffs were ragged from long use. He wriggled his toes in them thinking how nice it would be to have a clean pair of socks on once again.

Little thoughts like this flitted through his mind as he travelled on, eating up the miles with his stride, boot heels throwing up small clouds of dust as he walked along.

‘Ah! So here I am at last!’ he said, taking his pack from his shoulders. The sun was just above the Tower Hills as he entered the Inn. Standing in the entry way for a moment, he let his eyes adjust to the softer light within. His grey eyes glinted with delight as he spied the Innkeeper behind the bar.

‘A pint of the nut brown, if you please.’ he told her. One foot on the low railing, he leaned against the bar, watching the foamy head as it pushed up the sides of the tankard, threatening to spill out at the last moment. With a deft hand, the Innkeeper cut the flow and handed him the ale, not a drop spilled.

‘To your good health, Mistress!’ he said grinning at her, ‘And to your little bairns, too!’ He took a long pull at his drink, then turned and leaned against the bar, looking to see a familiar face.