The Green Dragon

[Dwarin Thunderhammer]

The Green Dragon

Gateway to the Shire
++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

A golden light streamed from under the door of a small stone building just off the great east road. Just outside the door a sign hung the sign that depicted a rotund Green Wyrm with a foolish grin on a gold background. In bold lettering, beneath the freshly-painted picture, in the same gold and green were the words The Green Dragon. A trail of smoke wound around the trees looming over the inn. Many strange and wonderful characters streamed in and out of the doors of the inn. Hobbits, Big folk, Dwarves, and even the occasional Elf were seen around the great hearth sharing a tale or two. Songs were heard too, whether it was the brave, or inebriated, young hobbit dancing on a table or a mournful ranger singing songs all but forgotten.

This fine establishment was run by the innkeeper Dwarin Thunderhammer. Much to the surprise of many of the patrons, a Dwarf was the proprietor of an inn in the Shire. The local hobbits didn’t seem to mind, however. Quality ale set any doubts to rest for many of the local farmers and Shirriffs, who would drop in more than occasionally.

Inside the Inn, Dwarin was making sure all was set for a long night of business. The fire crackled merrily in the hearth. He went behind the counter and cleaned the last of his mugs and put them away. The magnificent oak topped counter gleamed with a good coat of polish. The room was brightly lit courtesy of five lamps that hung from the rafters. The atmosphere was cheery and bright. The engraving above the hearth read:

There are songs to be sung,
And tales to hear,
So on the peg let your hat be hung,
Behave or be out on your ear!


A knock fell upon the door. Dwarin rushed to the door to greet his first guests of the evening. He smiled and showed them to the counter.

“Greetings one and all. My name is Dwarin Thunderhammer! You can call me Dwarin, Thunderhammer, D or pretty much anything. Just don’t call me late for dinner.”

None of the guests laughed at the stale joke. No one ever did. Dwarin seemed unfazed.

“This is the Green Dragon. I am the innkeeper here at this fine establishment. Anyone is welcome to tell stories and share a tale or two here. If things get out of hand, however, you’ll quickly find yourselves excused. But don’t worry, I’m forgiving and usually willing to give a second chance. So have some fun and enjoy yourself.”

Dwarin turned to go but stopped himself.

“There is one last piece of advice I have for you. Be willing to listen. There are a great many folk here who have traveled the rarely trodden paths. It would do you well to learn from them for many of them are willing to help and answer questions.”

++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++++

Welcome to The Green Dragon Everyone is welcome! Whether you’re new to roleplaying or are a long time veteran you can come here and have some fun.

The Green Dragon is the meeting place for all Barrow-Downs Role-Players. This is a place to jump into your first RPG. As you get more comfortable writing here you may journey to Rohan or maybe even Gondor.

If there is a dispute it will be sorted out by myself, the Innkeeper at The Green Dragon - or a member of the Downs Admin team. Most likely The Barrow-Wight and Mithadan.

The Innkeeper can also be contacted at mailto:Dwarin@barrowdowns.comDwarin@barrowdowns.co m</A> This forum is still closed and under construction. Further updates forthcoming.
Keep watching here and The Red book for the Rules pertaining to the Shire RPG's.

[ November 19, 2002: Message edited by: Dwarin Thunderhammer ]

[Mithadan]

A Man ducked through the door of The Green Dragon. He waved to those he knew and smiled at those he didn't. Stepping up to the Innkeeper, he spoke. "Good to see you again, Dwarin. An iced tea if you please." When his beverage arrived he sipped at it for a moment. Then he strode to the center of the room and spoke loudly to those assembled.

"Well met, my friends," he said. "Mithadan I am. Its a fine day and it will be an even better evening. Would anyone like to hear a tale?" All murmured their assent.

"Very well. In years long ago passed, there was a band of Elves who dwelt far to the east of this fine establishment. Dark Elves they were, Avari, but of course being Elves they were not evil..."

"Matter of opinion," grumbled Dwarin.

"As I was saying," continued Mithadan, "these were Dark Elves meaning that long ago they had declined to pass into the West and were separated from their kin. But stories were told among them of Valinor, the Undying Lands of the West and how other Elves had travelled to those Lands.

"And one Elf, Ilwë was his name, went to the chieftain of his band and said that he wished to go to the West. The chieftain told Ilwë that years ago, he had sought out the tallest tree in the land and had climbed to its top and looked about. But he saw nothing but the tops of other trees. So he said 'The world is covered with trees and there is nothing beyond them.'

"But Ilwë would not accept this. So he and his friends travelled far and wide until they reached a place where the forest ended. And beyond the trees was a great rushing river with mountains beyond. So Ilwë gathered those who were brave and curious and set out towards the West.

"The river was indeed great and powerful and they could not pass it. So they wandered for a time and found a spot where the water was less wild and more shallow. There they cut trees into short sections and grasping these they swam across the river and came at last to the mountains. Now these were very tall and some of the Elves were daunted and begged Ilwë to turn around and go home. But he refused. And at last, the group found a pass with a path that led up into the mountains.

"Needless to say, places like mountains are often infested with evil things and these were no exception. When they were halfway across, they were set upon by Orcs, Goblins if you will, and being but lightly armed they barely escaped and some were slain. Mourning their losses they passed through the mountains and found themselves upon a lightly wooded plain. But nowhere could they see the fabled sea and again some begged Ilwë to return to their home.

"But he refused, saying they had gone too far. So they journeyed across the plain and passed over hills and through forests until they came to a place not far from here. There, they found three towers, which they climbed. To the West they again saw mountains, but in a gap in the peaks they caught a glimpse of sparkling blue water. So they made their way towards the pass and found that the waters extended through the mountains and at its edge was a small city.

"There, they were greeted by an old Elf, so old he had a long grey beard! And he said, 'Welcome to the Grey Havens. I am Cirdan, master of this place, and all Elves who seek the West are welcome here!' Ilwë and his people rested there for a fortnight while Cirdan and his mariners prepared a ship. And at dusk one night, as the stars began to bloom in the sky, Ilwë and his friends took ship and finding the Straight Road, passed into the West and came at last to the Undying Lands where they dwelt ever after."

Mithadan finished his tea then and, with a wave, passed through the door and left the Inn with promises that he would return again soon.

[The Barrow-Wight]

A dark haired man of medium height and build walked into the Green Dragon and immediately stopped, surprised to find himself only the second guest to arrive at the newly opened inn. He gave a nod to Mithadan, who he knew well, and walked to the bar where he introduced himself to the Dwarf Dwarin.

“Hello Master Dwarf,” he said. “We have spoken many times by messenger but never actually met in person.” He looked around the Dragon. “Nice place you have here.”

Dwarin looked a bit confused. “Do I know you, sir?”

The man paused for a moment and then answered. “Of course, good Dwarf. I am The Barrow-Wight.” He waited for a reply but could see Dwarin was still confused. “What? Did you think I was really an animated corpse clothed in tattered rags?”

The Dwarf gaped, “Well…uh… yes. Everybody does.”

“Well that has changed,” laughed the Barrow-Wight. “I have taken over the body of this green-eyed, thirty-something Easterling, and I find it so much more comfortable than that old, armless (and crushed – remember what Bombadil did!) cadaver. Do you have any beer?”

[ November 20, 2002: Message edited by: The Barrow-Wight ]

[*Varda*]

The elf Varda stood in the quiet Inn, renowned for stories. She greeted Dwarin cordially, and ordered some ale. Leaning against the smooth wood of the bar, she surveyed the room. It was relatively quiet as yet, although she had greatly enjoyed Mithadan’s tale. She anticipated good stories to be told, and taking her ale, settled down in a seat to wait, and to watch.

[Celebmornie]

Celebmornie sits in the corner and looks around. She sips her ale and listens to the talks that are going on around her and smiles. She is gonna have a wonderful night here listing to people tell storys.

[VanimaEdhel]

Menelduliniel and Estelarion came in and briefly waved to everyone. They noticed the uncomfortable quiet in the room, almost like everyone was waiting. They moved to the beginning of the room. Estelarion took out his flute and played it and Menelduliniel began to sing:

O i'aur ar an i'daw
Tri i'amrûn ar di i'galad-en-Ithil.
Isobella, a!
Isobella, loro o nîn.

Hi telia o i'aur
Telin an i'hûn bronio
Mel broniatha ned le ui-eraid.

I'lû nîn telich,
I'lû le tirin
Isobella, a!
Isobella, loro o nîn!

Hi telia o i'aur
Telia na galad thiliol le
Mel broniatha ned le ui-daw
(Lyrics translated to Elvish, originally "Isobella")

[piosenniel]

It was late in the evening when the grey cloaked Hobbit trudged up to the Inn's rear entrance, her shaggy brown pony ambling slowly behind her, head down.

She tied the pony's lead to a post near the watering trough, and freed him of the packs he carried. He shook his head and mane, glad to have the weight of even her meager possessions off him. She placed a small blanket over his broad little back, and scratched him thoroughly between the ears.

'I'll be back in a short while, Peri. You wait here and I'll find us some food.'

She opened the door cautiously to the kitchen. Miss Violet ran it with a firm hand, and if she decided she didn't like you that day, then out you'ld sail with nothing but your backside to cushion your fall.

'You there, Miss Violet?' she called out in a clear voice, standing one foot inside the door and one foot outside in case a hasty retreat was called for. 'It's Holly . . . from Pincup. My Pa worked for you one summer when we were passing through on our way south.'

The sound of pots banging and someone muttering imprecations came from the darkened room. Holly fumbled for the candle she knew was just to the side of the door in a small lantern. Her fingers remembered where the matches stood, in a holder just to the right of the ledge where stood the lantern.

*snick*

One scratch of a match and a small light sprang up in the gloom soon followed by a larger pool as she found the candle's wick. 'Miss Violet, are you there?'

She found the woman nearly in tears, in front of a stove she couldn't get lit. 'Holly!' she said, in exasperation. 'That Dwarf has dragged this new fangled contraption into my kitchen and I can't figure out how it's to work for the life of me. Supper's due out in an hour and I've nothing to offer but bread and pickles to the guests.'

Holly crouched down and peered at the stove. 'I think we have to open the flue here, and then the wood seems like it should go over here and be lit.' She had seen one of the Dwarvish 'conveniences' once before on her travels to Dale and the Lonely Mountain.

Soon the two women had the stove working properly and Miss Violet hauled out two large skillets, putting them on the burners to heat. A dollop of butter skittered around in each, melting. 'Holly,' she cried, 'you're a gift tonight to be sure of it. Now put on that apron over there, and slice up that ham while I grate the potatoes and onions.'

'Let me just feed my pony then I'll be right back.' She ran to the trough and untying Peri, led him to the Green Dragon's stable. 'We're in luck!' she said to him, 'Miss Violet needs someone to help her, so we've got a place to stay at least for the night. Explaining to the stable boy that she was the new kitchen help, she gave him the pony's lead and left him to his care.

Food was cooked and platters filled with it all within the space of the hour.

Holly put on a clean apron and pushed her unruly mop of black curls back from her face, securing it with a scarlet ribbon.

The booming voice of the Dwarf preceded him through the kitchen's doors. 'We've got some hungry guests out here. Is the food coming?'

'Miss Violet shooed him from her domain, saying, 'You tend to their thirst. We'll see to their stomachs!'

'We?!' said Dwarin, a frown creasing his Dwarven brow.

'Good evening, Master Dwarin!' said Holly sweetly as she hefted a large tray filled with platters of ham and potatoes and bread cut in thick slices and crocks of butter and dishes of fat pickles on the flat of her hand, and held it shoulder height. 'Holly, it is. At your service, tonight.'

She winked saucily and sailed past him, crying in a loud voice for such a small Hobbit, 'Who's hungry?!'

[Gandalf_theGrey]

Who's hungry? No need to ask twice! smilies/smile.gif

* Catching a suspender in the door as it swung open, Podo Cotton lost any last shred of dignity he might've otherwise been able to convince strangers of. The small wooden box he'd been clutching to his chest crashed to the oaken hardwood floor like a deadman's weight. Making a frantic lunge, Podo broke free of the door, snapped the suspender clean off, dove to cover the box and the handful of spilled coins with his chubby torso. Muttering to himself, he madly shoveled heavy gold coins back into the box with one hand while hoisting up his trousers with the other, all the while squirming on the ground like a stuck pig. *

* Podo had reached the Inn on foot, for his sturdy pony Hardwin had disappeared in the night. Run off, or stolen, both pony and ponycart. Podo's face fell again as he thought once more of the Southron wares he'd been ferrying in that cart, and the prices he could've gotten. But he'd go straight to the Shirriffs as soon as he'd had a good meal. *

* Podo scrabbled himself up off the floor, looked left and right, and plonked himself heavily into a groaning seat. Squinting, he looked at the waitress, trying to place her. And more importantly, to his mind, trying to place an order for food. *

[The Barrow-Wight]

Cold beer in hand, Barrow-Wight wandered over to a table and sat down to enjoy the varied crowd gathered in the Dragon. The small Inn had stood for centuries in the small hamlet of Bywater, and for almost as long young storytellers had journied to it to try their hand at spinning a tale before an audience. But the Barrow-Wight was not in the mood for talking this night. He had come to Bywater to see what talent, new or old, showed up. On any given night there might appear at the Dragon a group of novice writers eager to join a game, or a solo character of many advertures wanting to share his or her own experiences with the onlookers.

Either way, the Wight expected to see some daring person ask to start one of the ‘seed’ stories.

[ November 20, 2002: Message edited by: The Barrow-Wight ]

[Susan Delgado]

The Green Dragon's door creaked open a few inches and most of the diners looked up, eager to appraise the newcomer. There were frowns and murmers of surprise, however, when the guest proved to be a large, nondescript white dog. He sauntered into the room and began sniffing greedily around the tables, hoping for scraps. Dwarin rose, but before he could shoo the bothersome creature outside where he belonged, a figure appeared in the doorway. It was wrapped in so many layers that it was impossible to discern sex or race. It's cry of "Feaer! Come here!" at least proved it was female, however.

The dog gave a last longing sniff under one of the Hobbits' chairs and obediantly returned to his mistress' side. She looked around the room for a moment and then began removing her layers. It soon became clear that her clothing hadn't revealed as much as it had seemed to. She was a massive woman, tall and strong. A soldier? But how would a woman have come upon such a career?

She looked around the room a moment more, and then strode forward and sat down at one of the tables to eat. The dog, Feaer, followed her and lay down under her chair.
Some few in the room recognised her, at least on sight, though none could remember speaking to her.

[ November 21, 2002: Message edited by: Susan Delgado ]

[Dwarin Thunderhammer]

Seeing some of the patrons shifting uneasily, Dwarin climbed up on one of the stools.

“Some of us here at the green dragon have prepared a song for just an occasion as this! Now that Miss Violet and Miss holly are here I believe we can perform it!”

Violet popped out of the kitchen just long enough for Dwarin to drag her unwillingly onto the Stool next to him. Dwarin produced a small drum from behind the counter. Holly grinned and hopped up on the next stool more than willingly. Violet scowled as Holly started:

We de de de de de de de de de dum we um bum ba way
We de de de de de de de de de dum we um bum ba way

Dwarin chimed in with drum and voice:

Wee-maa-way Wee-maa-way Wee-maa-way
Wee-maa-way Wee-maa-way Wee-maa-way

Hesitatingly Miss violet began:

In the mountain, the mighty mountain
The Dragon sleeps tonight
Under the mountain, the lonely mountain
The Dragon sleeps tonight

Wee-maa-way Wee-maa-way Wee-maa-way
Wee-maa-way Wee-maa-way Wee-maa-way

In the mines the beautiful mines
The balrog sleeps tonight
Near the mines the Morian Mines
The Balrog sleeps tonight

Wee-maa-way Wee-maa-way Wee-maa-way
Wee-maa-way Wee-maa-way Wee-maa-way

Hush my Hobbit (hush my Hobbit)
Don't fear my Hobbit (don't fear my Hobbit)
The Sackville Baggins sleep tonight (the Sackville Baggins sleep tonight)
Hush my darling don't fear my darling
The Sacville Baggins sleep tonight

Dwarin and his crew climbed down from their stools and awaited a response.

[piosenniel]

The songsters were met by an awed silence. Then began the steady beat of tankards on the wooden tables as the patrons showed their approval.

A tall, thin, fair-haired Hobbit stood and raised his hands to quiet the crowd. 'Do none of you know the Northern version?' he asked, looking about the crowd.

'Northern version?' asked Dwarin. Miss Violet shrugged her shoulders. Holly grinned at the Dwarf and coming near to the questioning Took, climbed on the table he stood by and offered him a hand up.

Another Took stood and filled in with the drum as the two Hobbits sang out in clear voices.

We-de-de-de, de-de-de-de-de de, we-um-um-a-way
We-de-de-de, de-de-de-de-de de, we-um-um-a-way

A wimoweh a wimoweh a wimoweh a wimoweh
A wimoweh a wimoweh a wimoweh a wimoweh

Deep in Mount Gram the Misty Mountains
The King Orc sleeps tonight
Under Mount Gram the Misty Mountains
The King Orc sleeps tonight

A wimoweh a wimoweh a wimoweh a wimoweh
A wimoweh a wimoweh a wimoweh a wimoweh

Beneath the Greenfields,the quiet Greenfields
Golfimbul sleeps tonight
Under Greenfields, the peaceful Greenfields
Golfimbul sleeps tonight

A wimoweh a wimoweh a wimoweh a wimoweh
A wimoweh a wimoweh a wimoweh a wimoweh

Hush my dear Tooks, don't fear my dear Tooks
The King Orc sleeps tonight
Hush my dear Tooks, don't fear my dear Tooks
The King Orc sleeps tonight

A wimoweh a wimoweh a wimoweh a wimoweh
A wimoweh a wimoweh a wimoweh a wimoweh

Round the Shire, the mighty Shire
Bullroarer rides tonight
Sleep my Hobbits, you're safe my Hobbits
Bullroarer rides tonight

We-de-de-de, de-de-de-de-de de, we-um-um-a-way
We-de-de-de, de-de-de-de-de de, we-um-um-a-way

Their voices faded away into the hush of the room. The Took lad bowed to Holly, and she curtsied to him, blushing prettily. Then the band of North-tooks from Long Cleeve stood up as one and raised their pints to the two.

'Drinks all round!' cried the Elder of the group, his rheumy eyes seeing scenes from an old story his mam had told him - the Great Battle of Greenfields, where Bandobras 'Bullroarer' Took defeated a band of marauding Orcs led by Golfimbul, King of the Orcs of Mount Gram.

[Estelyn Telcontar]

Díra carefully removed two leather-bound cases from the saddle-bags before she let the stable-boy take the pony’s reins. “Be sure to take good care of him,” she said curtly. “He has had a long journey and a heavy load.” She strode up to the door of the inn, which swung open as a guest left. “Hey! Watch out where you’re going!” she snapped.

As she stepped into the Green Dragon, her eyes darted around the room. Without noticeable surprise, she recognized the Innkeeper and walked over to him. “Well, Dwarin, so this is what’s become of you – an innkeeper?! Not much profit to be made here in the province, I wager. Might have known that you were off on one of your ridiculous adventures again!”

Dwarin’s eyes brightened as he saw the plain, sturdy face and form of a dwarven female. “Díra!” he shouted, trying to grasp her hand.

“You just keep those bumbling fingers off my cases,” she retorted. “No one touches my fine tools or the wares that I have made. Just be a good fellow and get me something to eat and drink, will you? Travelling is hungry and thirsty work.”

She sat down at an empty table, carefully placing her cases between her feet before taking off her blue, hooded cloak and stretching with a sigh. My, it is good to be inside where it’s warm and friendly, she thought. But does there have to be so much talking and singing going on?

[Elenna]

Lilac Burrows dashed back to the bar, picking up another tray of ale mugs.

"All right, Drondo, I'm coming, lad!" she called to a rotund hobbit sitting at a table with some friends. "Me legs can only carry me so fast!"

She set the ale mugs down in front of the hobbits and hurried back to the kitchen. "Hurry up, Lilac! We've a full house tonight!" The cook, Miss Violet, was up to her elbows in bread dough. Lilac grinned at her.

"Yes, and they're all hankering for more ale and more food." She picked up a tray of stew plates. "Nothing we can't handle, eh?"

[Kiara]

As Lilac moved back to the throng now gathered in the inn, a surly youth bumped her in the arm sending the long-awaited victuals to the floor.

"Well, young man!" She cried, crossing her arms in a rare posture of irritation.

Without seeming to have noticed her sharp exclamation of censure, the youth moved to a corner table where SHE darkly frowned, though pleased that her disguise had worked. Perhaps she would be able to fall into ignonimy in this backwards place.

[VanimaEdhel]

Menelduliniel and Estelarion smiled at all the other talented musicians and went over to the bar, each ordering an ale.

"We will need new songs to keep up with them!" Menelduliniel said, laughing. Estelarion laughed with her.

"Do you know I'Bith en Eraid?" Menelduliniel asked, looking at Estelarion.

"Aaaa...no, sorry," Estelarion said.

"You don't?" Menelduliniel asked, surprised.

She stood up and went to the center of the room. "Does anyone know I'Bith en Eraid?" she asked the room.

A small Hobbit with a flute stood, "I do, Miss Elf," she said.

"Would you like to play?" Menelduliniel asked, gesturing to the flute.

"I...well, I...I suppose...me?" the small Hobbit stammered.

"Of course," Menelduliniel said, "Come now!"

The stood towards the center and a tall Elf with a stringed instrument and his friend with a small drum and tambourine joined them. They both smiled at him and began.

Min aur, min fuin, min lûeg
Ler nîn penitha eraid gwin
Min gon, min dant, min u-dal
Rhûn ar Andune
Am amar ar na nen
Min bad no randa nîn
Bad hi nitha Bith en Eraid nîn.

O arad an arad
I'randon nîn athon
O fuin an fuin, randa nîn,
In'trinairn u-nitha lû wain

U-arad, u-fuin, u-lûeg
U-daritha ler nîn.
Darithan, danathan, u-broniathan
Govadathan arad nîn palan-o-nef
Palan-o-nef.

Min arad, min fuin, min lûeg
Na lor neri
Min gon, min dant, min u-dal
Ar amar wain tharaeronon
Bad hi estin lor nîn
Goarad hi metha, palan-o-nef

Goarad hi metha, palan-o-nef
Palan-o-nef.
(Courtesy of "Book of Days" by Enya)

The small band ended. By this time, Estelarion had caught on to the melody and had joined in. They smiled, happy to have met each other, and all journeyed to the bar together to speak over another pint.

[Celebmornie]

Celeb watched them sing and smiled. This is fun she thought. She lowers her hood and her long black hair galls out. She itches her ear and smiles. She thinks about her mother and the songs she used to sing. She was suddenly aware of someone in the other corner watching her and she used her hair to cover her pointed ears. She just wasnt comfortable with the thought of people noticing to quickly that she was an elf. She waited for someone else to start singing and without noticing it she started humming a song ot herself.

[piosenniel]

It was a tricksy twist of time,they say, that brought the brown cloaked rider to the Inn's door. A sturdy brown horse it was, though, that bore him from Long Cleave to the door of the Green Dragon.

He was a Hobbit of some height, broad shouldered, fair of countenance, with a thick blond mass of curls. Beneath his cloak he wore a simple, long sleeved tunic of homespun cloth, and a pair of brown breeches cut to mid calf, and secured with a sturdy brass buckled belt. It was his vest that marked him as a Hobbit of some interest - a striking pattern of black and yellow diamonds shot through with thin red lines. His feet, of course, were bare.

Bolco was left to the able hands of the stable boy. His rider strode to the door of the Inn and through it just as the last verse and chorus of the Took's "Northern Version" rang out. He stood at the back of the room, eyes gleaming beneath his bushy brows, and watched the two singers bow and curtsy to one another. 'Fallohides!' he murmured. 'No mistaking them.'

'A pint!' he called out to the Inn keeper as he approached the bar and leaned on it.

'Make it two!' he said smiling broadly. 'The Bullroarer is thirsty tonight.'

[ November 22, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Saurreg]

Mud splattered as heavy dwarven boots worn by a pair of weary legs trudged along the trail that was called the Great East Road in the tongue of the big folks. Glòin Stealthteeth had been journeying for an entire day and was exhausted and hungry. By word of mouth, he had heard of a dwarven establishment along these parts and was eager to reach there and spend the night with the hospitality of fellow khazads.

As he reached the bent around an old willow, he saw in a distance a small stone hut with two windows illuminated from within by bright lights and wisps of smoke rising from the chimney.

Gloin exclaimed to himself, "Lo! That must be the Green Dragon Tavern! Himli wasn't pulling my beard afterall!"

It took a few more minutes before Glòin finally arrived at the doorsteps of stone hut perspiring. Just as he was about to lay his hands on the door, it opened and an elf, tall and fair stepped into the moonlight. He saw Gloin and graciously held it open for the tired Khazad to enter before giving a slight bow and exiting into the night, closing the weather beaten door behind him.

[ November 22, 2002: Message edited by: Saurreg ]

[Nurumaiel]

As Robin Brandybuck walked towards the Green Dragon inn, she heard singing. Smiling, she pushed open the door and stepped in. Many eyes turned to look at her as she stepped up to the counter.

"A cup of tea, if you please, sir," she said to the innkeeper.

"At once," the dwarf said, and poured her a cup of tea. She took it, thanking him, and moved to sit at a table.

But she did not sit at once. Looking around the room at everyone, she said, "My name is Robin. I'm pleased to meet you all." Then she sat and began to drink her tea.

[Valeria, Witch of Angmar]

The door to the Green Dragon opens and a figure cloaked in red enters. The person pushes back their hood, revealing that it is a woman with long black hair and startling blue eyes. She rests her hand lightly on the pommel of the silver sword at her waist, then relaxes, chuckling softly.
She takes a seat near the wall and orders an ale, sipping it slowly. She feels the warmth in the room and is welcome for it. It has been long since she knew warmth, either physically or the warmth of kindness. Her eyes sweep the room, ears catching snippets of stories told by fellow wanderers. Her eyelids fall half-closed and her lips curve in a smile.
Her name is Valeria and she comes from Angmar.

[Saurreg]

Glòin Stealthteeth made his way through the crowded room squeezing and shoving through drunk and sweaty bodies. The worm-eaten floorboards, soaked in spilled beverage and excrete squeaked with every step he took. The tired dwarf took a while before finally making his way to a seat at the barcounter.

The innkeeper; a fellow khazad spotting a dirty brown apron took notice of Glòin, went towards him and smiled:

“By Aüle! Another fellow Khazad! Greetings! My name is Dwarin Thunderhammer! You can call me Dwarin, Thunderhammer, D or pretty much anything. Just don’t call me late for dinner.”

Both dwarves broke into hearty guffaws which caught some regular patrons along the counter in surprised. No one till now laughed at the innkeeper's signature introduction/joke.

"Greetings good innkeeper! I am Glòin, son Bayer and by the axe of my forefathers, a warrior of the House of Dáin the Unforgettable. I have travelled far and would require a room for the night and sustenance to keep the body strong."

The innkeeper grunted his approval and produced a tray of strong cheeses, assorted nuts and dried spiced meats from underneath the counter before stepping towards the taps and handed me a large tankard of mead.

I thanked the khazad and gratefully accepted the cool beverage. Grabbing a tasty morsel from the tray, I turned around and munched hungrily whilst surveying the room.

[ November 23, 2002: Message edited by: Saurreg ]

[dragoneyes]

Two hobbits came down the road bickering, one was riding a huge cart-horse and had dark brown, curly hair. The other was walking next to him and had light brown hair and eyes.
"Come on, just a drink or two, we won't be long." said the one walking,
"Gaddy, after a few drinks y'know I'm in no state to ride any horse, let alone me dads best one. Me uncle is expectin' this horse tomorrow, I shant get there on time if I stop with you."
"Aren't you the slightest bit hungry?"
"Well... aye, I am, but that's not sayin' anythin', I'm always hungry."
"Oh Hal, please, just this once, I'll explain it to your father, I swear I will." Hal thought hard,
"Oh alright, but never again, yer already got me into trouble twice this week."
"You didn't do anything wrong, you just took a break, farm work isn't everything you know."
"Easy fer you to say, you've not worked a day in yer life."
"Have to, that day when I helped you with the plowing and..." And so he continued until they got to the Inn.

Hal made sure the horse got the best stable in the yard then followed Gaddy into the bar. He opened the door and looked around at all the strange people,
"Well bless my heart, not seen this many strange folk in one place before." He sain to himself as he moved out of the way for a dwarf and a group of hobbits.
"Hal, what're you doing? I'm over here." said Gaddy from the bar.
"Here's your ale, now drink up." he said taking a big gulp from his own mug.

[Celebmornie]

Celeb looks around and suddenly recognises her sister. "Thule!" She yells and her sister walks over. "Hello!" She stops the bartender. "Can we have 2 more pints?"

[Child of the 7th Age]

Bullroarer pounded on the table with his two empty flagons. "Where is that dratted dwarf? I want my dinner now!"

Dwarin came scurrying up to the table. The Dwarf looked a bit flustered. He wasn't used to dealing with hobbits quite as loud and boisterous as Bullroarer. Plus this hobbit was as tall as he was. Very strange indeed!

Bullroarer clambered onto the top of the table and cried, "Hey, hey, I have an announcement to make, a matter of great importance. I see we have a number of newcomers in the Inn." Bullroarer waved a friendly hand towards Robin Brandybuck, Valeria, Hal, and Grady. He also smiled at Celebmornie whom he knew. "And I see some sturdy hobbits in the group."

"Just next week, we will have a band of brave hobbits trudging from the Shire all the way to Rivendell to secure needed foodstuffs and supplies. Although warm and comfortable in the Inn, there is blizzard and famine throughout the Shire. We must get through to Rivendell so the Elves can help us."

"We are looking for volunteers. Just see the discussion thread for "The Long Winter" in the Shire and sign up your character if you'd like to come along."

At this point, Dwarin came to the table bearing a plate of mushroom stew. He shook his head. "No, I need more than this. Bring enough so that I can share with my new friends as well."

Dwarin groaned, but re-emerged in a minute carrying several more platters of food. Bullroarer gestured to the newcomers, "Come on, join in, there's plenty for all."

[Nurumaiel]

Robin gave a wide smile to Bullroarer, then stood up and held up her hands. "May I now sing a little song I composed?" she asked. As she received cries of yes, she began.

Here in the Shire the grass grows green
And little rivers fall.
At the Green Dragon we dance and sing
And Dwarin answers our calls.

Whether it's tea, water, or ale
That we wish to enjoy
The Green Dragon will, without fail,
Lighten the hearts of our girls and boys.

Sitting down again, she added, "It may not be too good. Just a little song that came into my head the way here that I just had to sing. I suppose when I said 'girls and boys' I sounded as though I was talking about children… didn't I?"

She gave a deep sigh and began half-talking to herself. "I know I can't compare with all you wonderful story-tellers and singers here, but I'll try."

Then a smile lit up her face. "What about another cup of tea, Dwarin?" she asked, jumping up and heading over to the counter.

Dwarin poured her another cup of tea. "Here you are," he said.

"Thank you kindly," Robin replied, but didn't leave the counter. Instead she turned to everyone and said, "How about a tale or two? Does anyone have an interesting story they'd wish to share?"

[piosenniel]

"Here in the Shire the grass grows green
And little rivers fall.
At the Green Dragon we dance and sing
And Dwarin answers our calls."

Bullroarer sang and hummed the words from that Robin lass's as he sopped up the last bit of gravy from hhis bowl with a crusty chunk of bread.

'Nice song!' he said to her, his voice booming over the din of the Tavern. He motioned her over with a wave of his hand, and stood, offering her a seat. 'She blushes so prettily!' he thought to himself, 'Just like my daughter!'

'You're a Brandybuck, are you not?' he asked her, taking a close look at her. 'The Fallohide blood always tells, especially when one opens her mouth to sing.' He smiled at her and laughed. 'Where are my manners! I'm Bandobras Took just come from Long Cleave.'

'Robin', she replied, warming to him. 'Robin Brandybuck, it is, of Hobbiton.' She took her seat and sipped her good herb tea, savoring the smell of it and the warmth of the mug as she held it.

Bullroarer frowned, trying to remember where he had heard that name before. He pulled a ragged piece of paper from his vest pocket, and putting on his reading glasses perused it for a moment. 'There you are!' he said pleased with himself.

He took the stub of a pencil from his pocket then, and put a check mark by the young Hobbit's name. 'What's that?' she asked politely, seeing the list of names and wondering why she was on it.

'Tis a list of sturdy Hobbits I am to contact, to see about a little venture we might try. He looked about the common room at the sea of faces. 'You wouldn't by any chance see any of these others here would you?' She glanced at the list and shook her head 'no'.

Bullroarer stood and looking about the room, found who he was seeking. Dwarin sighed and rolled his eyes beneath his bushy eyebrows, but there was no escaping the ham-fisted Hobbit who stood motioning him over with a wave.

'Dwarin, my lad! I need some assistance from you. Some members of the party I was to meet seem to have gone missing. Can you see your way to finding out about where they are and bringing them here.' It was more of a statement than a question.

'So now I am to be a messenger service!' laughed the Dwarf to himself. 'Who do you need, Bullroarer? I'll send out some Hobbits to round them up.'

Bullroarer showed the list to the Inn Keeper - Lotho Hilldweller, Emerald Burrows, and Daisy Took were the names he jabbed at with his thick finger. 'And if you find any other likely candidates for my venture - bring them on in, too!' Dwarin called for a flagon of dark brown ale to tide the mighty Hobbit over until the needed Hobbits could be found.

Then he took two likely looking lads aside, and giving them the promise of a free pint when they returned, he sent them out to gather Bullroarer's troops.

[ November 23, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[dragoneyes]

"Did you hear that Hal?" said Gaddy getting over excited as he had a tendancy to do,
"Bullroarer going on a quest and looking for sturdy hobbits like us to come along." He looked meaningfully at Hal.
"No. I am not going, I still have loads of stuff to do for me dad."
"We can still go and see him atleast."
"No! He's got much better things to do than talk to us." but Gaddy dragged him through the crowd by the wrist anyway. They arrived at Bandobras' table, Gaddy stepped forward,
"Er... Mr. Bullroarer? Sir?"
"Yes?"
"Er, I'm erm... well... my name is..." Hal saw his friend in trouble, it always happened when he talked to strangers, he did things before he thought and the words got lost on the way to his mouth. Hal pushed him out of the way and held out a hand,
"I'm Halwon Cotton, me friends call me Hal though, and this is Gaddbard Boffin, who's also known as Gaddy, please excuse him, he does things before he thinks y'see, and he's always gettin' himself in trouble, me too if he as a chance."
"Hal!" said Gaddy, elbowing him in the side and looking embarrassed. Bandobras laughed and took Hal's hand,
"Nice to meet you two." and he took Gaddy's hand and shook it aswell.

[Nurumaiel]

As Bullroarer spoke to Dwarin, Robin found herself turning pink with excitement. So, someone had liked her song! That was rare.

Bullroarer turned back to her. Looking curiously at him, Robin said, "We're traveling to Rivendell, aren't we?"

"Yes, we are," Bullroarer replied. "And how did you know?"

"There's always a strange light in one's eyes when they are planning to go to Rivendell," answered Robin. "But don't think it was my idea. You see, I have an Elf friend at Rivendell who said I had a light in my eyes when I was traveling to Rivendell with her. She said that everyone she met who was traveling to Rivendell, no matter what their race, got that light in their eyes."

"You have been to Rivendell before, then?"

"Yes, once," Robin replied, her eyes taking on a rather dreamy look. "My friend took me there. It was beyond beautiful. I can hardly contain my excitement at being able to go again."

"It is well we have one who has traveled there before accompanying us," said Bullroarer.

"Hmm, yes, I suppose." Robin wasn't really paying attention. She was gazing out one of the windows of the inn, at the dark night sky.

"Oh, I'm sorry," she said suddenly, looking apologetically at Bullroarer. "I was thinking of Rivendell. I'm eager to go there again."

She suddenly noticed two young hobbits were standing at the table. She beamed a smile at them. "Sit down!" she said. "I'm sorry if I missed out on anything important you had to say. Though I'm quite sure you were talking to Bullroarer and not meself. Sit down!"

[piosenniel]

'Rivendell is nice enough, for those of us who like elvish things. Though I must admit I find it too quiet for my liking.' said Bullroarer. 'Give me a good smial any day to live in, and a nearby Inn to gather with friends and that is enough for this Hobbit.'

He looked up at the two lads who now stood near his table, shuffling their feet. The braver of the two had come forward to greet him and introduce his tongue-tied friend. 'Hal!'he said, as he shook the talkative one's hand. 'And Gaddy, is it?' He waved them to some empty seats. 'Welcome! This is Robin Brandybuck, soon to be a travelling companion of ours when we go to Rivendell.' He looked the two directly, like a fine fox sizing up two plump hens. 'You are going with us, are you not?' They nodded their heads at him, afraid to say 'no'.

He beamed at them and standing, clapped them both on their backs. 'Sit with us and slake your thirst, my hearty adventurers. What will you have?'

Bullroarer motioned once again to the beleaguered Innkeeper.

[ November 23, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[VanimaEdhel]

"Where do we go from here?" Menelduliniel asked Estelarion as they sat down.

"Let us wait and listen to others. Maybe we can join one of those fine people on their journey," Estelarion said.

"I wish we could journey on our own. It is a lot more...simple," Menelduliniel said, ordering herself another ale.

"Aye, that it is, but it is also far too dangerous. I propose we wait for someone who is looking for fine young Elves to accompany them on a quest of some sort."

"If that is your wish..." Menelduliniel said, absentmindedly, "Do you know, there are far more Dwarves and creatures of other races than I thought there would be. The Green Dragon, I thought, would mostly be inhabited by Hobbits."

"That is strange," Estelarion said. He sighed, "Well, these are dangerous times. People must know that the Shire is one of the safer regions left in the world."

"But, if the hunted come into the Shire, would that not lead the evils of the world into this area, trying to find them?"

"Most likely it would, Menelduliniel, yes," Estelarion said, his mood beginning to darken at Menelduliniel's topic.

"I hope that none come to harm these darling people," Menelduliniel said.

The both sat together, getting thoroughly depressed at the thought of these friendly Hobbits getting harmed...

[Calenedheliel]

Daisy Took tied her pony Lily to the post and opened the door to the Green Dragon and entered. She looked around to find Bullroarer and the group going to Rivendell. She found him seated with 2 other hobbits. She approached the group and said,"I'm sorry it took so long for me to arrive here, but I had to arrange for things to be taken care of while I'm gone. I've never been to Rivendell and am looking forward to traveling with you."

[Nurumaiel]

Robin glanced towards the table where Menelduliniel and Estelarion were talking together.

"Excuse me for just a moment," she said to Bullroarer, Hal, and Gaddy. "I'll be right back.

Walking over to the table of the two Elves, Robin smiled. "Greetings, friends," she said. "I couldn't help noticing you were Elves, and I do love Elves. Do you mind if I sit and speak with you for a moment?"

"Please, sit down, merry hobbit lass," Menelduliniel said.

Robin took a seat. "I'm afraid I mustn't speak long, for Bullroarer and the two young hobbits may be wanting me back there, soon. But this is the first time I've seen Elves in the Green Dragon. From where do you come?"

[piosenniel]

'Welcome Daisy! I had wondered where you were. Come sit and meet these likely looking lads. Gaddy and Hal, of Bywater as I recall.'

He looked pointedly at Gaddy, who stood, stammering, and pulled out a chair for Daisy.
'May I get you something to drink?' the shy young Hobbit asked Daisy when she had seated herself.

Bullroarer looked on, a smile playing about his eyes. 'Those Fallohide girls. They always have that effect on the lads!'

[Calenedheliel]

Daisy looked up at Gaddy and replied,"Yes I would like some tea, thank you."
"I am glad to meet you." Daisy said to the two young hobbits.

She then turned to Bullroarer and asked "How soon will we be on our way to Rivendell? I am really excited about going on this adventure!!

[ November 23, 2002: Message edited by: Calenedheliel ]

[dragoneyes]

Gaddy went to get Daisy her tea.
"Aye, a good question that is, I have to tell me dad I'm going, and Gaddy here will have to ask his, won't you Gaddy? Gaddy?" Gaddy had been gazing at Daisy while she drank her tea and Hal elbowed him,
"Eh? What? oh, yes." He said, not really knowing what they were talking about. Bullroarer laughed heartily and Gaddy hid his embarrased face behind his mug, drinking more of his ale.
"So Bullroarer? When are we starting?" pushed Hal.
"We have to wait for more hobbits to join us before we start, we're stuck here for the moment."
"Fine with me." said Gaddy gazing at Daisy again.
"Oh you're just useless you are!" said Hal smiling at his friend's shallowness.

[ November 23, 2002: Message edited by: dragoneyes ]

[Nurumaiel]

The door opened yet again and a young hobbit man entered. Scanning the tables, he caught sight of Robin sitting near two Elves and walked over to her.

"I hate to interrupt," he said to them. "But I need Robin to introduce me to Bullroarer."

Robin opened her mouth to protest, but the Elf woman spoke up. "That's quite all right," she said with a smile. "It was wonderful speaking with you, Robin."

With a sigh, Robin led Dinodas over to a table where four hobbits were sitting, muttering to herself. "Well, I suppose I should have been heading back there anyway," she said.

Bullroarer greeted her. "Welcome back to our table, Robin," he said with a smile. "While you were gone young Daisy Took arrived." He gestured to the newcomer at their table.

"Hello, Daisy," Robin said. "I'm named Robin Brandybuck. This is Dinodas Green," she added. "Dinodas, meet Gaddy, Hal, and Daisy. Oh, and of course Bullroarer."

"Hello to you all," Dinodas said. "Especially to Bullroarer. I'm interested in this journey you're taking to Rivendell."

"He wants to come," Robin put in helpfully. Dinodas shot her an annoyed glance, then smiled sheepishly at the other hobbits. "We're friends," he said. "So we tease each other all the time."

As Dinodas began asking Bullroarer questions about the journey they would be taking, Robin turned to Hal, Gaddy, and Daisy.

"Another of Fallohide stock, Daisy?" she said.

Hal spoke up. "Well, Gaddy-" here he shoved his friend, who was still staring at Daisy- "is also of Fallohide stock," said Hal. "So make it three."

"With pleasure!" Robin laughed. "I suppose we should all become wonderful friends before this adventure. I have a notion will need friendship on this journey."

Dinodas turned towards Robin. "Hmm? What's that?"

"I was talking to these three... Hal especially, since he was speaking to me," Robin said, rolling her eyes.

Dinodas gave a mock groan and returned to asking Bullroarer questions.

[ November 23, 2002: Message edited by: Nurumaiel ]

[ November 23, 2002: Message edited by: Nurumaiel ]

[Birdland]

The small, stocky figure with the long hooked staff stalked through the inky twilight towards the welcoming warmth and light of the Green Dragon. His small shadow stopped beside him and sniffed the air appreciatively. "Aye, old friend. a welcome sight - and smell, I'll warrant. Worth a tramp half-way 'cross the Shire."

Elfred Thistle had been clear to Michel Delving, there to spend some time with his eldest daughter and his latest grandchild, a healthy girl, pretty as a spring lamb. Yesterday morning he had begun the long tramp back to Bree, spending the night in the comfortable roots of an old tree. But tonight, he would treat himself to something better.

The inn was packed to the rafters tonight, not only with his own folk, but a various assortment of Dwarves, Men, and Elves. Elfred was use to the first two; but even with all the long summer nights he had spent in the Weather Hills tending to his flocks, he had seldom spied any of the Fair Folk. A glimmer in the distance and they would be gone, as wary as any deer.

But tonight there seemed to be three or more of Elrond's folk in residence. They looked almost peculiar amongst the cozy grime of the Green Dragon, like colorful birds from the Southlands suddenly lighting in a Bree dovecote.

But it was not the Elves that made Elfred straighten in amazement and respect, but the tall, muscular Halfling that stood talking to Dwarin at the end of the bar. Dwarin looked up and spying his old friend as he entered the room, waved him over.

"Elfred Thistle! I had no idea you were in these parts again. Visiting that charming daughter of yours?"

"That I was. She has honored our family with a new addition, and I could think of no better place to wet the babe's head then here."

"Her ninth, is it?"

Nay, her tenth!"

Dwarin whistled in appreciation (and bemusement. Dwarves seldom produced the "litters" that Hobbit families seemed to require). "Well, we'll all raise a glass to the little one tonight, and many more. But first, allow me to introduce you. Master Took, meet Elfred Thistle of Breeland, famed shepherd and bane of all wolves. Elfred, Bandobras Took, known to all as 'The Bullroarer' "

Elfred tipped his hat, bowed his head and muttered "at your service, Sir". The younger son of Thain Isumbras II was known throughout the West Lands. Elfred had never found himself in such distinquished company.

Bandobras raised his glass and replied "at your service, and well met, Gaffer. Here's to the health of your grandchild." And with that he raised his mug and drained it without breath. Slammming it on the bar, he cried to Dwarin "Another, good dwarf, and the same for Master Thistle!"

Dwarin turned back with two mugs, saying to Elfred "Would you like your usual room Elf? And Miss Violet has made a noble stew tonight, as well as the hardiest bread in the Three Farthings."

The shepherd took a long draw from his mug, raised his glass to Bandobras in thanks, and said "Aye, two bowls of stew, Dwarin, and a cold bowl of water for my friend."

"Where is Nop, then? Not like him to not come and greet his old mate Dwarin." The two peered around, finally spotting the slinking black and white form of the small collie, touching noses with a massive, shaggy white dog under a far table - who seemed to belong to an equally massive feminine species of Big Folk. The two dogs sniffed each other intently, still deciding whether they would be friends for life, or start a mighty donnybrook in the middle of the Green Dragon patrons.

The bar was noisy, but all it took was one quiet "Nop. By me, Sir" to bring the collie whirling and trotting to the feet of his beloved master.

"Well done, Nop. Are you ready for your feed then?" And Nop wagged his tail, as eager as any Hobbit to dig into Miss Violet's famous stew.

Dwarin chased two young Brandybucks away from a table and seated his friend in the cozy booth by the fire. Then Elfred, with Nop curled in a heap at his grey feet, settled in to enjoy the passing show at the Green Dragon, his second home.

[Ringwraith Number Two]

Lotho slunk into the inn, slightly irritated. He was not at all happy at being interrupted by an excited young hobbit just as he had almost managed to sell that sack of slightly..decaying tomatoes to old Odo Proudfoot. Still, the young hobbit had insisted that he was needed at the Green Dragon on Rivendell business, so Lotho had had no choice but to abandon the sale and follow the young 'un grudgingly.

The Green Dragon was buzzing with many people. Where was he? Ah. The Bullroarer stood tall over the shorter hobbits surrounding him. Lotho made his way over to him, smiling in a polite, albeit forced manner.

"Greetings, good sir," he said to the Bullroarer.

[Ithilelen]

A small elf wanders in, she has almost white hair and bright blue eyes, her hair is curly and hangs around her shoulder.

"Greetings all, I am Ithilelen." Bows to the patrons. "I am slightly new to this area, and would like some direction."

[piosenniel]

Dinodas was proving to be a quite talkative companion. A young man with a bright, inquisitive mind could prove to be a valuable asset on the trek they would soon be starting, he thought. Not to mention the fact that he is a strapping male in prime condition, and has a way with animals. ‘I wonder if that extends to understanding the minds and actions of Wargs? Now that would be extremely helpful.’

He sighed mentally, looking about at the companions who had so far shown up. So many females, he thought to himself, and young to boot! What were their families thinking, sending them out on such a dangerous mission! He hoped that the other lads would soon show up, he did not relish the thought of taking care of all these ‘females’ on the long, hard journey.

Bullroarer listened as the lad went on, throwing in the occasional comment as needed or a solemn nod of the head. The main of his attention, though, was fixed on the door to the Inn. He had just glanced up again from a long pull at his tankard, when he saw someone slink in through the door, and look about with measured irritation. ‘A Harfoot, by the look of him.’ he murmured to himself. ‘I wonder what bothers him so.’ He stood up, and gazed toward the Hobbit, wanting a better look at him.

Bullroarer watched as the Hobbit fixed his eyes on him, and with barely concealed exasperation, made his way to where he stood. ‘Must have had some recent deal gone sour for him.’ thought Bullroarer. The man had a keen, piercing stare, and a crafty look which played about his face as he sized up the famous Hobbit who now stood before him. Bullroarer laughed to himself. ‘I’ll wager he could sell me my own horse and make me think it was a good deal!’

‘Greetings, good sir!’ came the polite voice of the Hobbit, breaking through Bullroarer’s thoughts.

The Hobbit extended his hand, and gasped loudly as Bullroarer pulled him near and clapped him soundly on the back. ‘By the Burning Briar!’ roared the mighty Fallohide. ‘I believe we’ve now found our negotiator for Rivendell!’ He held the startled Hobbit at arms’ length, and offered him a pint of the Green Dragon’s finest. ‘Now, what did you say your name was? In all the excitement, I didn’t catch it.’

His eyes shown with a mischievous light as he watched the unnamed Hobbit fight for control of the situation.

[dragoneyes]

"Been to Rivendell before then Robin?" Hal asked,
"Yes, I have." she said, again thinking dreamily of it.
"That's unusual, not met many folk who've been there. Actually, not met any who have. Is it really as nice as they say in the tales?"
"Depends how nice it is in the tales you've heard."
"Well, tell me about it and I'll make up my own mind about how nice it is." and so Robin started trying to explain every intricacy of Rivendell and Hal listened, quietly thinking.

Meanwhile Gaddy tried starting up a conversation with Daisy,
"So. You're coming to Rivendell with us?"
"It would seem so, yes." said Daisy with a smile. Gaddy smiled back but couldn't think of anything else to say, so he carried on drinking.

[ November 24, 2002: Message edited by: dragoneyes ]

[Calenedheliel]

Daisy turned away unsure of what to say next. Gaddy seemed to be at a loss for words also.

Daisy watched Bullroarer talking to a hobbit she hadn't met yet. The conversation looked very interesting but she didn't want to be rude to Gaddy by getting up and going over to see what was being said.

Finally, Daisy thought of something to say to Gaddy. "I've brought my own pony to travel with, she is a very good pack pony and can carry a lot of supplies for us." said Daisy. "I'm also bringing my slingshot for protection." she said.

Gaddy looked over at her with great interest. Daisy continued "What are you bringing on the trip Gaddy?" Daisy asked politely. Daisy looked away shyly waiting for an answer and hoping that he did not notice that she was blushing as she talked to him.

[Helkahothion]

Then a person enterred the inn wearing a green robe witch covered his intire body including his head. Dwarin looked at him with great suspicion.

The person toke off his robe and now they could see the real an elven warrior standing at the entrance. But his weaponry was not completly elfisch. He wore a large sword on his belt, carried a bow on his back and a large knife was stuck in his belt.

"good evening" the elf sayd. My name is Anuion and I am an adventurer. I'm looking for adventure and will take almost any job because it's gonna be my firsth. Dwarrin laught. "hahaha another adventurer that want's to join." Welcome!
________
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[Ringwraith Number Two]

Lotho collected himself in what he hoped was a dignified way.

"Lotho Hilldweller of Whitfurrows, sir," he said, bowing slightly. He eyed the extended hand grasping the pint of beer somewhat warily, and after a pause, took it.

"I see I've already been given my job," he continued smoothy. "Negotiator, eh? I'll do that job well." He looked around the inn, and suddenly spoke. "These young ones aren't coming as well, are they?"

Bullroarer nodded.

Lotho felt annoyed. He felt a burning urge to burst out and say: "I'm sure you've considered the aspect that througout most of the journey, we'll be running round after these hobbits- some barely out of their tweens, from the looks of it- and we will be wasting precious time" but he felt that it was wise not to show his disapproval at this early stage in the journey.

"So, my good sir, when will we be starting?" he asked Bullroarer, hoping to start a polite conversation, whilst eyeing the two blushing hobbits near them disapprovingly.

[dragoneyes]

"Well, we have lots of useless things in our hole, it's almost a mathom-house. I might be able to dig out a bow and arrow, not that I can use one," Gaddy quickly added, so that Daisy wouldn't get the wrong idea.
"I've got plenty of kindling and stuff to ligt fires with, blankets and cooking things, Hal's the one with the horse." He continued.
Daisy looked back at him and looked genuinely interested,
"You cook?" she said,
"Oh yes, I once bit into an apple and lots of maggots came jumping out, so now I try to eat cooked food as much as possible."
Daisy looked a little disgusted and there was an uneasy silence. Gaddy glanced over Daisy's shoulder and saw a new hobbit talking to Bullroarer, but eying them with dissaproval, eager for a new subject Gaddy said,
"Who's that talking to Bullroarer now?"

[ November 25, 2002: Message edited by: dragoneyes ]

[Nurumaiel]

"You say there will be dangers on this journey, Bullroarer," said Dinodas. "What kind?"

Bullroarer did not answer. Following the his gaze, Dinodas saw the door to the inn open and a hobbit step in, who moved towards their table.

Dinodas stood up and said quietly, "A new adventurer, I see. Perhaps I shouldn't bother you for awhile?"

He walked over to Robin and took a seat next to her, listening with an amused smile as she talked the wonders of Rivendell to Hal. Then he turned to where the other young hobbit lass, Daisy Took, and Gaddy were speaking. He smiled at Daisy.

"I hope I'm not interrupting, but I just thought I'd properly introduce myself to young Daisy here," said he. "I may not know Gaddy and Hal, but as they live in Bywater, like myself, I've passed them a few times. Yet I've never seen you before, Daisy.

"My name is Dinodas Green, which you knew when we were introduced," he continued. "Will you be making this long journey with us?"

"Yes, if all goes well," Daisy said shyly.

Dinodas gave a teasing look at Gaddy. "I know Gaddy will be going," he grinned. "As long as Miss Took is going along."

Gaddy mumbled a reply under his breath, and Daisy blushed.

Meanwhile the conversation between Hal and Robin had changed abruptly, through Robin's own fault. She was likely to talk about something else in the middle of one conversation.

"I wonder if there will be anymore Brandybucks coming on this journey?" she said. "I hope so, because I think it would be interesting if I had a relation of mine come with us.

"What's your full name again, Hal?" she added.

"Halwon Cotton," Hal replied.

"That's right," said Robin. "I think I know another Cotton… or do I?" There was a pause, and when Hal looked at Robin again it was plain to see she had completely forgotten the conversation, because she was gazing out the window at the stars.

"Er… well… what will you be bringing on this adventure, Robin?" asked Hal hesitantly. He wasn't sure if he wanted to interrupt her daydream or not.

"Oh!" Robin was immediately back to attention. "I'll bring my bow."

"Is that all?"

"No…" Robin thought for a minute. "I haven't really considered what I'll bring yet."

"You should have, Robin Brandybuck. We'll be leaving soon."

Robin looked up quickly at Hal. "Did you say that?" she asked, then suddenly she knew. "Dinodas Green!" she cried. "I thought Hal was actually a rude hobbit, and that he was saying that to me!"

Dinodas and Hal both laughed, while Robin tried to pout.

"So what will you be bringing besides your bow?" Hal asked after Dinodas turned back to Gaddy and Daisy.

"If Bullroarer'll let me, I'll bring my pony Gil-Galad. After the Elven-king, you know," said Robin. "He's a good pony. Strong and sturdy, very brave… pretty fast, too. He'd be a wonderful pack pony."

"But enough talk about the journey," she said, yet again changing the conversation. "It's making me nervous. Tell me about Bywater, Hal."

"But hasn't Dinodas told you about Bywater?" asked Hal. "And you've seen it yourself."

"But I want to hear it from your point of view," replied Robin. "Go on, tell me all about Bywater."

[piosenniel]

Bullroarer stood on the tabletop and banged his thick cudgel three times on the thick wood.

All eyes now on him, he held aloft a pint of ale, and spoke loudly into momentary lull of voices.

'Come, fellow travellers to Rivendell. Pack up your belongings, and hurry to the Took mansion. The snow is getting deeper by the minute, and we must away soon. Dinodas, Lotho, Giles! Lead the way, lads!'

[VanimaEdhel]

"Ai!" Menelduliniel muttered, looking at the bustling Hobbits, "They are certainly excited, are they not?"

"You would think they had never been on an adventure," Estelarion said, "A, I forgot! The probably have not!"

"True," Menelduliniel said, sipping her ale, "I am waiting for a quest that is quite different from the others, personally. One that has never been attempted...and maybe one with other Elves."

"It will come," Estelarion said, "Just give it time."

[Celebmornie]

Celeb looks up. "An adventure? Am I permitted to join?" She waits calmly for a reply.

[Helkahothion]

"If there's an adventure you should not leafe home without me!"
Anuion sayd.
And he also waited clamly for a reply.
________
V8 Engine (http://www.yamaha-tech.com/wiki/Yamaha_V8_engine)

[Mithadan]

A server paused at hearing these comments. "I have heard that a Man named Ransom is seeking adventurers," he said. "So is a Dwarf named Dwarin. Both may be found here in the Shire. Perhaps you should seek them out?" Then he went on about his business...

[VanimaEdhel]

Menelduliniel and Estelarion looked at the server.

"I thank you kindly, dear Sir," Menelduliniel said, "But I have specific locations in mind. I shall wait. I have until this world ends, do I not? I have waited long before an adventure came in other years, so I can wait now."

The server nodded and Menelduliniel rose and got Estelarion and herself more ale.

[the witch king]

the door creeked open and a dark figer could be seen closeing the door behind him he steped in to the light he was a tall man grim looking with long dark hair his long black hoodid cape looked old and weather beaten he stroad over to the bar "ale, land lord" he said quietly but in a menecing tone slideing his coins across the bar never takeing his eyes off the bar man the dwarf glaced at him in an un shure way he seemed almost to be debateing whether to hand over the drink but eventualy handid it over the grim man walked away with out a word(or thanks of any kind) and lit his pipe in the darkest corner he could find "welcome stranger" said one of the local hobbits sitting a few tables away but recived nothing but an icey staire as he continued to puff on his pipe and looking round intently as tho he was looking for some one

[Helkahothion]

Anuion was sitting silently in a corner. He tought that it would be easy to get in an adventure.

"Go to the green dragon they sayd"He muttered.

He tought that anyone would need a strong elven ranger in their company. He guesed that he was sadly mistaken.
________
Michigan Dispensaries (http://michigan.dispensaries.org/)

[the witch king]

the grim man looked intently at the strangely familyer looking elven ranger sitin in the corner at the other side of the room the man tryed to get a better look at him serching his long and dark memory for some clue as to where he had seen him befor then a name began to serface "Anvion"..........

[Gimli the Dwarf]

A stout dwarf comes into the in and looks around at the many guests. He smiles releeved to see the inkeeper was a fellow Dwarf. He says well met fellow Dwarf I would like ann ale to start with smilies/biggrin.gif

[ December 02, 2002: Message edited by: Gimli the Dwarf ]

[Celebmornie]

Celeb looks around then says to her sister. "There is no one here I know! But I am way to D**n shy to intruduce myself!" Her sister smiles. "I figured! Well I am soo sorry for leaving you but my daughter is going to be home in a little bit and I shuld meet her." They hug goodbye and Celeb is left agan sitting alone in the corner drinking a small cup of ale.

[Helkahothion]

Anuion was still mumbling in his self when two elves came walking in. They where talking together and then one of them left.

Anuion heard that the other one was called Celeb. He was a bit shy cause you don't meet a lot of women in the wild. He toke all his courage together and walked onto Celeb.

"Could I join you I'm seeking adventure and I believe youre not liking sitting alone here. Perhaps you would let me buy you an ale?" ANuion asked and he wished he could sink into the flour.

This was a lot more frightnig situation than figting a warg leader he taugt.
________
ROOR BONG PICTURES (http://roorbongs.org)

[the witch king]

his dark brooding is disturbed by one of the two elves leaving he glaces over at the shy looking lady sitting alone catching her glance he nods and raseis his jar of ale

[VanimaEdhel]

Menelduliniel drained her ale and ordered another. She saw an Elf sitting by herself by the bar, so she sauntered over.

"Suilad, gwenn Edhellen (Greetings, Elvish maiden)!" Menelduliniel greeted warmly, "There are not many other Elves here, are there?"

"No," Celeb answered somewhat shyly.

"We must stick together, I suppose," Menelduliniel said, smiling warmly. "I am Menelduliniel," she said, extending her hand, "And you are?"

"I am Celebmornie," Celeb responded, "And I have heard of you from somewhere."

Menelduliniel sighed, indignantly, "Ai! I had hoped that the stories had died down some. Yes, you know of my from the murder of Poldorawen."

"That was you?" Celeb answered, somewhat warily.

"Yes, a long time ago. Even in another life, you may say," Menelduliniel sighed, "Much has happened since then. Although, one thing that has not changed is that I know I was right to kill her."

Celebmornie did not respond. Menelduliniel knew that this was not the time to tell such a morbid story. Leave it to her to ruin the mood of jovial celebration...

"We must talk of lighter things, though!" Menelduliniel said, "Estelarion!"

Estelarion came over.

"This is Estelarion. He is far from a criminal if that lets your mind be at ease some. So, as you seem to know my story, and most likely my fate, tell us of yourself! Where do you come from? What is your tale?"

[the witch king]

quite a few elves where gathering in the dragon tonight far more than he had seen in a while it must be said he didnt like them he draind his jar and walked to the bar "mr dwarf, il have an ale" as he put his jar on the bar he stared at the elves that wherent to far away and said in a loud voice "more of there kind than useual in hear eh dwarin" "yes sir" he said "cant say i care for them" he said snearing at the elves

[Dwarin Thunderhammer]

Dwarin’s head was spinning. Everything was happening at once. Suddenly the inn was full of people. He was handing out every sort of drink he had by the dozens. The hobbits seemed quite content over in their corner of the room, even if they were making quite a racket. Things were busier than the poor innkeeper could keep up with. Just the way Dwarin liked it.

One of the Dwarves in the room walked to the bar and whispered quietly to Dwarin. Dwarin nodded his head and returned to serving customers. The second Dwarf cleared his throat and spoke.thus.

“To all Dwarves and Men. My name is Gorin and I have been sent from the King Under the Mountain to seek help. Rarely has life been better for the dwarves of Erebor. We are prospering. However as of late some of our supply convoys have been lost. Last reports indicate the eastern side of the misty mountains. We need people to investigate. Anyone willing to help see me or go To Erebor. (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=19&t=000007)

His speech done Gorin sat down and talked with those who were interested.

[ November 29, 2002: Message edited by: Dwarin Thunderhammer ]

[Saurreg]

Glòin Stealthteeth jumped onto his feet and spoke with a booming voice so that all in the Tavern could hear,

"Gorin of the mountains! I Glòin, son of Bayer will join you in your hour of need. For the folks under the mountains are my kinsmen too! May we encounter glorious battle and achieve great honor worthy in the eyes of Aüle!"

[ November 29, 2002: Message edited by: Saurreg ]

[Celebmornie]

Celeb smiles at Anuion. "Pleas do join me!" She smiles as all of a sudden there is another elf there. Menelduliniel and her start a coversation. After they finish Celeb turns to Anuion. "I am Celebmornie. What is your name?"

[ November 30, 2002: Message edited by: Celebmornie ]

[Acid_mouse666]

An elf dressed in grey enters the Green Dragon. She looks around at the many men, elves and dwarves gathered in one tiny building.
"My name is Enedlaithwen. I've come here from fair Lorien. I was wondering if you would be able to help me."

[Acid_mouse666]

"I am an elven warrior looking for a companion to help me on a quest. I'd be truely grateful of any acceptions to the offer...." She glances at several dwarves who are drinking heavily and shudders. "Dwarves....You can't trust them..." She muttered under her breath.

[Celebmornie]

Celeb looks at the new girl. "What do you need help with?" Celeb asks quietly.

[Birdland]

Elfred Thistle had eaten two bowls of Miss Violet's good stew, with plenty of bread for sopping and some good pickle, served by that saucy new bar maid, Holly. Nop had had a bowl and a half, (plus whatever he could lick out of the remains of Elfred's bowls), and was dozing in front of the fire.

Elfred nursed his long pipe into life, took a satisfied pull on his half pint, and put his long, furry grey feet up in front of the fire.

There had been some good songs and jokes going around the inn tonight, but the most entertainment was to be found in watching the interactions of the Elves and Dwarves. Elfred had never seen so many of the Fair Folk, and he wondered what they spoke of in their quiet speech. But it was the flamboyant speeches and gestures of the Mountain Folk that almost made the Hobbit want to stand up and applaud. It was as good as any mummer at the Mid-Summer fair.

"Those Dwarves sure know their way around the words." said Elf to Nop. "Sound as good as any King in a Pantomine. So how would you address yourself if you were a Dwarf, Nop? 'All Hail! I be Nop, Son of Nip, from the lofty heights of Bree-Hill.' Sound about right, Nop?"

Nop waved his tail lazily at the sound of his master's voice and smiled. But being so comfortable, he did not bother to raise his head.

[Acid_mouse666]

She turns to face the elf who spoke to her. "I'm looking for a companion."

[Celebmornie]

"Why?" She asks sounding braver than she feels.

[Child of the 7th Age]

Cami Goodchilde pushed her way into the Green Dragon, looking for a bite to eat. The hobbit was shocked when she looked through the door of the Inn. The place was crawling with an assortment of dwarves and Elves. They seemed to be eying each other suspiciously. Cami wondered if, before the evening was over, they'd actually come to blows.

Cami slunk lower in her seat. The last thing she wanted to do was to get between two brigades of Elves and dwarves who intended to have it out with each other. She did have a bow with her, but she'd have to stand up on the table to aim at her opponents' heads. She was rather short, even for a hobbit, and they would otherwise tower over her.

Cami saw Violet and Holly waiting on tables, but other than that, there was not a single hobbit in sight. They had been here earlier, and left en masse. How strange that this should happen in the Shire! She had heard the news about Bullroarer leading a whole contingent through to Rivendell to get some food for the hungry hobbits who were sufferering with the blizzard. That's where they must be, she thought.

Then, out of the corner of her eye, in the very back of the room, she caught a glimpse of Elfred and Nop, both of whom had managed to fall asleep over their pints. She went over and tried to shake them awake, but to no avail. The duo slept on, snoring in harmony. So Cami, being thirsty, put her hand out to borrow their drinks, which was a good hobbit tradition.

She took the ale over by the hearth and settled in close to the fire, hoping the two wouldn't mind too much when they awoke. She was chilled to the bone. She was a messenger of the Shire, and had been out delivering letters from early dawn. Cami set down her mailbags, and finished both the pints. Before she knew what was happening, she managed to fall fast asleep.

[ November 30, 2002: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

[Gimli the Dwarf]

Gimli looked around the room as he finnishes his ale he decides that it is time to get a bit of pipeweed to. He suddenly notices the elves thathave entered the room.
He asks," are you guys heading back to the havens?"
The elves reply, "Yes, we are leaving Middle Earth."
Gimli lookes arouind and engages in a long conversation getting news from around the world and finding out that his father, Gloin, had become king under the lonly mountain. He meuses that he should leve the bar since it was late. He gets his pipeweed from the barteender and walks out the door smokeing.

[piosenniel]

GIMLI

Please see your PM's (Private Messages).

[Sk8rBoi]

A young man steps into the Green Dragon. He shakes the rain from his long, black hair and glances over at the dwarf behind the bar. "Good day." He said, bowing. "My name is Castamir. I am a traveller from Gondor." Castamir shifts uncomfortably as several dwarves start muttering under their breath.

[Celebmornie]

Celeb looses her nerve and attempts to hide in the shadows. She has never had any good friends except her sister and her family.

[Galadel Vinorel]

Autumn ran up to the door of the Green Dragon, shivering with cold. She had been wandering around for miles, and now she was cold, tired, and hungry. She had been in this inn once before, and so the timid hobbit pushed opened the door. A warm breeze rushed out to greet her, and she smelled the baking of some delicous smelling food.

Pulling the hood of her worn cloak over her head, Autumn entered the inn. She was greeted by an assortment of eyes, and she smiled hastily around the room at the other travelers. Walking over to the bar, Autumn quickly lowered her hood and asked the barkeeper, who she recognised, for a mug of ale. Autumn sat at the bar sipping her drink as she surveyed the scene around her.

There were all sorts of people in this inn, even some elves. She saw a man standing in the middle of the inn, while near him some dwarves glared angrily at him. Wondering what was going on, Autumn settled back in her stool to listen to these traveler's tales.

[Mithadan]

A rider, dressed in the livery of the Thain, entered the Inn. The young Hobbit raced up to the bar and addressed the barkeep. "I've an urgent message for Master Dwarin. Sir, if you see him, please tell him he is needed in Mod Gorthad at his earliest convenience."

With that, the messenger seized a glass of ale, drained it in a single draught, and raced for the door.

[Garen LiLorian]

The hour was late, and the Moon had already begun his descent towards the horizen. The door swung open, sending a gust of wind throught the tavern. The shape in the doorway was that of a Man, tall and fair, yet almost stumbling with weariness. He leaned upon his spear, and, using it as a crutch, he hobbled forward. Many hands helped him as he found his seat, and he thanked them courteously, his voice thick with the accents of the South. As if suddenly aware of the eyes upon him, he glanced around the room, his eyes noting with interest the swarthy Dwarves and riotous hobbits. He lingered for a moment on the exceptional form of the bustling innkeeper, and the ghost of a smile crossed his face, like a wisp of cloud driven by wind. When he spoke, his voice was soft, whether with pain or toil, or perhaps simply the voice of a man used to being listened to. "Sir Dwarf." Dwarin was busy. He had enlisted the help of one of the younger hobbits, and was trying in vain to hoist an inebriated Dwarf up the stairs. "Good ol' Dwarin," The Dwarf slurred, "always depend on him. Where is he?! Dwarin!" And, despite the best efforts of both the redoutable inkeeper and the young hobbit, the unfortunate Dwarf twisted to look out over the common room and pitched headfirst back down the stairs, where he lay in a heap, beyond any cares. "He'll be fine," Dwarin told the concerned hobbits, who had universally stopped their conversations to watch, "Just watch your step on your way to bed! Now," he said, hurrying over to the young man, "what can I be doing for ye? A beer, or dinner perhaps? I can set you up a room if you'd like. It's me last one, up in the attic, but better than being out in this wet. Why, I've never known it to be this cold, and it being almost Midsummer already." The Man, perhaps a bit flustered by the garrolous Dwarf's mile-a-minute monologue, answered shortly. "A room would be welcome. And something warm to eat."

[the witch king]

amron looked over he had been keeping a low profile since he had made coments about the elves at a near by table but this young man intreaged him he took a long draw from his pipe and walked over "an ale land lord" he said the turning to the weary looking man next to him he said "greetings friend would you care to sit with me a while? you look like a man that has a tale to tell and i would like to haer it, but not at the bar walls have ears" he glared at the elves who where looking up at them "come sit with me at my table"

[the real findorfin]

The mood of the Green Dragon was unusual. Many Elves were scattered around but as he entered, Findorfin saw only one, a shy-looking elf sat alone in the corner opposite. He crossed the room quickly, passing many drunken dwarves and hobbits, and slid onto the pew beside the elf maiden.
"Hello," he began, nodding gracefully at her. "My name is Findorfin."
The elf smiled shyly, confirming his thoughts, and said, "Hello, I'm Celebmornie."
"What is a beautiful elf like you doing in a place like this," Fin said, laughing.
Celeb relaxed at the joke and began to talk to her felllow elf.

[the real findorfin]

He was tall and dark, a brown cloak wrapped tightly around him as he entered. A few of the giddy hobbits, drunk on ale and stories of old, looked up but payed no attention. they had seen many strange people that night and were surprised no more. He slid into an empty pew near the door, near an escape rooute. As he searched the room, his eyes slid onto the women sat in the corner sipping an ale.
The WITCH!
An urge flooded trough him to rise and run the creature through with his sword at once but he slammed the gut feeling down.
"NOT HERE," he thought, "TOO MANY PEOPLE."

[Celebmornie]

Celeb smiles. "Me beautiful? Cant you see?" She nervously twists her hair with her finger.

[the real findorfin]

“Blind I am not fair elf maiden. Thou art beautiful to mine eyes and fair seeming in all thy other features.” The elf winked and smiled.

[the real findorfin]

“Speaking in a voice like that always makes my words sound more poetic and lovely,” Fin said, as his new acquaintance cheeks blushed a deeper red.
“But surely an elf of such looks and young figure should not be travelling alone in such times. Where are you bound and whence have you come?”

[Helkahothion]

My my Findorfin, you seem to have your way around with the lady's." Anuion said. "I guess your not a ranger like me. So tell me where are you from and what are has brought you here?"
________
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[the real findorfin]

He rose slowly and slid back out through the door and into the darkness. He jumped from the raised porchfloor and onto the packed dirt of the Green Dragon’s front entrance. Sounds of stablehands came softly on the breeze that had replaced the rain of an hour before. He moved slowly down the road and to a dell ten metres from the inn. Below in the darkness sat a small group of grim figures, all gripping weapons.
“She’s there,” the man spoke in a dark voice.
“Let us finish this then,” spoke another from below.
“Nay,” replied the first, “she is in the inn and there are too many people.”
“But she is the dread witch,” cried another.
“Silence!” The man commanded and they obeyed. “The timing will be of my chosing, I am your leader and you will be led or you will depart.”
A silence followed the statement.
“Good, then I will return to the inn and await her departure.”
The figure turned and strode back to the inn, where he retook his seat and, now calmly watched his prey.

[the real findorfin]

“I travel with the wind, ranger,” Fin said, his voice calm but his eyes seeking any danger in Anuion’s figure. “Why would you know it of me?”

[Helkahothion]

"Just quriousity. You don't have to fear anything from me dear kinsmen." Anuion sayd, noticing the hostility in his voice."It's just that you don't see many elf's in the outdoors. So tell me if you wish where are you from?"

[ December 02, 2002: Message edited by: Helkahothion ]
________
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[the real findorfin]

Fin relaxed visibly but shuffled slightly closer to Celebmornie. “Sit beside ME cousin and I will tell you of my journey.”
Anuion sat down, but on a stool away from the wall and a little closer to the maiden than Fin.
“Then tell away my new friend.”
“I come from far away my friend, over the Misty Mountains and from Mirkwood. I am…close…to the King; Thranduil the Great, King above all other elven kings. But I have wandered far, seeking knowledge and friendship in foreign parts.”
With this, he shot a glance at Celebmornie, who returned his smile, with further blushes.
Fin continued, a look of triumph on his face. “From whence come you, friends, and from what lineage art thou?”

[the witch king]

"elves" amron mutterd hatefuly under his breth the 3 sitting not to far away interested him greatly he had seen one of them glancing hatefuly at the witch sitting nearby if this elf had any score to settel with her he would have amron of umbar to recon with first he glared menacingly at the elves as they chated amongst them selves it had been a while since he had faced a worthy enemy would this elf prove so?

[Nurumaiel]

"Look at all these Elves," Robin said as she looked around the room. "I wonder what so many are doing here. It's only hobbits you see in these parts... usually."

She sipped her tea and looked around the crowded room. Never had she seen so many different races in the Green Dragon. Would they all travel as far as they did just for a good pint? Perhaps they had some important business in the Shire?

Robin sighed. Ah well, she didn't care. Elves were wonderful, Dwarves were nice, and Men were all right. As long as there was a good tale or two, perhaps a few songs, she would be content.

[Galadel Vinorel]

Autumn sat on a bar stool sipping her drink, waiting to see if anyone would tell a tale or sing a story, but everyone seemed too caught up in their own conversation. Autumn turned to the barkeeper, and he laughed at the frustrated look on her face. Bending over the bar, he said in the hobbit lass's ear, "Why don't you introduce yourself, Autumn? Maybe even sing a little song. These travelers would enjoy that."

Autumn nodded, smiling, and stood up. Though she was not very tall, the guests were surprised at how loudly and clearly the hobbit lass's voice rang out in the room as she sang a song that her mother had once taught her in the beautiful language of the Elves. All talking in the room died away as Autumn's clear voice rang out the hall.

"Ai! laurie lantar lassi surinen

Yeni u-not-ime ve ramar aldaron!

Yeni ve yuldar avanier

mi oro-mardi lisse-miruvore-va

Andune pella Vardo tellumar

nu luini yassen tintilar i eleni

oma-ryp aire-tari-lirinen."


Autumn's voice rose high, and the people could hear the sorrow and pain her voice as she told the story of an elf who could not cross the Sea to Valinor, though she wished to do so very much.


"Si man i yulma nin en~quant~uva?

An si Tintalle Varda Oio~losseo

ve fanyar ma~rya~t Elen~tari orante

ar ilye tier undu~lave lumbule

ar sinda~norie~llo caita mornie

i falma~li~nnar imbe met ar hisie

un~tupa Calaciryo miri oiale.

Si vanwa na Romello vanwa, Valimar!

Namarie! Nai hir~uva~lye Valimar.

Nai elye hir-uva. Namarie!"


Auutmn ended her song and looked around the silent inn, wondering what the guests had thought of her song.

[the real findorfin]

Fin saw a hobbit female looking over at them and beckoned her over.
As she approached Fin hailed her, hello, fair hobbish maiden. Sit awhile with us.
Robin sat with elves, in aw of them.

[the real findorfin]

As Autumn finished her song Fin clapped loudly, shouting , “encore.”

[Nurumaiel]

Robin smiled broadly. "That was beautiful, Autumn!" she called. "I wish I could sing like that."

Autumn returned the smile and sat back down.

The door creaked open and a tall figure stepped in. She had light brown hair that fell to her waist, and she was clad in a pale blue dress that fell loosely about her. She looked around the room at the Elves and a soft smile came to her red lips. She stepped gracefully in, and then it was all in the inn saw the mortal walking behind her.

"Greetings," the Elf maid said clearly, smiling, "To all you men, dwarves, elves, and halflings." Then she moved to sit down, as the man next to her gave a quick nod in greeting to the others.

[the real findorfin]

Fin was loath to leave his new friend Celebmornie alone with Anuion but the new arrival intrigued him and after a quick, “I’ll be back soon Celebmornie, my dear,” he rose and made his way over to the elf women.
“Hello, my lady”, the elf flirt bowed and winked.

[Galadel Vinorel]

As Autumn finished her song Fin clapped loudly, shouting , “encore.”

Robin smiled broadly. "That was beautiful, Autumn!" she called. "I wish I could sing like that."


Autumn blushed slighty, she wasn't used to a lot of compliments. Coming over to the table where Robin was seating, she asked, "May I join you all?"

Hearing the door open, Autumn turned to see an elf walking in. Autumn smiled at her, and turned back to Robin, waiting for her to respond.

[Celebmornie]

Celeb smiles. "I am a 'daughter' of Galadriel. I was abandoned and have been raised as one of hers." She smiles at both of them. "I dont even have the slightest clue who my real parents are but I must not have been wanted. Now I wander alone usually cause no one will join me! But when I go to places like this I usually end up in a corner ignored." She looks down and whishes that she could just disappear. She didnt know these men and definalty shouldnt be worring them with her problems.

[ December 02, 2002: Message edited by: Celebmornie ]

[the real findorfin]

Fin saw Celebmornie start talking to Anuion and his mind boggled. Beautiful lady or the fair Celebmornie. His mind was made up
“Should you wish to talk to my fair self, my lady, you have only to come over to my table.2
With that, Fin rushed back over to Celebmornie and retook his seat, inbetween her and Anuion.

[the real findorfin]

“May I offer myself as an escort for your fair self, Celebmornie my darling.”
Fin begged Manwe himself that she would say yes.

[Celebmornie]

Celeb smiles at him. "I guess so." She stands up.

[the real findorfin]

“But where do you go now, fair maiden? Surely, thou are not leaving us so soon. For that would lessen the atmosphere greatly.”

[Celebmornie]

"I was just going to go get another ale." She says as a blush creeps up her neck.

[Galadel Vinorel]

Autumn couldn't believe it. She had never met a Elf who flirted before. Autumn sat down in a chair next to Robin.

"It's been a while since I have seen you, Robin. What have you been up to? How's Dinodas?" Autumn asked, smiling, as she thought back to when she had first met Robin and Dinodas on their adventure to Rivendell to get food for the Shire.

[Nurumaiel]

"What did he say his name was?" the Elf-maid asked, a smile playing around her lips.

"Fin-something, I think," the man replied. "What would you have to drink, Nurumaiel?"

"Oh, nothing at the moment," the Elf Nurumaiel said. "I'm more interested in meeting some of these Elves. Why do we not go over to Fin and talk with him and his Elven friends? They seem kind enough."

"Very well," the man said. "But I don't know how these Elves will welcome a man from Rohan."

Nurumaiel and the man moved over to the table where Fin was sitting. "Hello," Nurumaiel said. "Do you mind if we sit with you?"

[the real findorfin]

“Well surely you will let me pay for that. And maybe you would like something less course. A fine Gondorian Red maybe?”
Fin rose quickly and followed as the elf maiden moved across to the bar.
“Dwarvin, my good dwarf, an ale for myself and…what would you like my dear?”

[Nurumaiel]

"Dinodas is doing wonderfully," said Robin, smiling at Autumn. "He was here but he had to go back to help his mum and sister."

"Did you see that Elf who keeps flirting?" Autumn asked.

"Yes, rather curious, isn't he? He seems nice enough, but I wonder if he ever gets annoying?"

"Well, he's an Elf, so I'd assume not."

Robin threw a friendly arm around Autumn's shoulder. "I never said how wonderful it was to see you again, my friend."

[Celebmornie]

Celeb blushes even more. "Um... Ale or whatever." She mentaly slapps herself for being so stupid.

[the real findorfin]

“of course, my dear, anything you wish. Two ales, my good dwarf.”
As they waited for the ale, Fin turned to see that the lady had sat at his table.
“Oh Eru,” he thought. He picked up the tankards of ale and returned to the table, allowing Celebmornie to enter onto the pew first.

[Galadel Vinorel]

Auutmn smiled over at Robin. "It's good to see you too, Robin. By the way, how is you family?"

[the witch king]

"i have been wateing for my ale for an age!" amron shouted "and this elf walks strate up and asks for his drink as thow hes the land lord you not in your land now you know" he said glareing at fin

[the real findorfin]

To make conversation, Fin spoke, “and what brings you here, fair lady.” The elven lady turns and explains….

[Celebmornie]

Celeb sat down and took a sip of her ale. "Thank you!" She smiles at Fin.

[the real findorfin]

Fin smiled back at Celeb as the lady begins. “My pleasure,” he whispers, moving closer to her ear, whilst keeping his eyes on the lady, so as not to be rude.

[Nurumaiel]

"Keep talking with the Elves, Nurumaiel," the man whispered in the maid's ear. "I think I see an old friend over there." As he moved away Nurumaiel continued talking with Fin.

The man walked to a table where two young hobbit lasses were sitting and talking together about their families.

"Hello, Miss Brandybuck," the man said, sitting down next to Robin.

Robin looked up and studied the man carefully, not recognizing him. He was tall with light hair; therefore he must be from Rohan. Suddenly she recognized him.

"Firramer!" she cried, throwing her arms around him. He laughed and patted her back.

"Autumn," Robin said, her face beaming. "This is Firramer from Rohan. He's a great friend of mine. And Firramer, this is Autumn Gamwich."

"I'm very pleased to meet you," Firramer said, smiling at the hobbit lass. She smiled back, somewhat nervously. After all, she wasn't used to talking to one of the Big Folk from Rohan.

[Celebmornie]

Celeb yawns slightly and leans her head back aganst the wall.

[the real findorfin]

“Your friend there seems to be from Rohan, if I see corrdctly. I wonderful people are the Rohirrim, and how did you come to know him?” Fin continued to make conversation, his one true art, at the same time moving slight closer to Celeb.

[the witch king]

amron took his ale and went back to his seat noding at the witch as he past showing his support, when he sat down he took a long drink and lit his pipe glareing out evily at any who would return his gaze he was in a dark mood tonight

[the real findorfin]

"Are you tired, my dear." Finn whispered, using Celeb's leaning as an excuse to move very close to her. "perhaps you should retire? Do you have accomodation here?"

[Nurumaiel]

"Master Elrond had me go to Rohan for a visit," Nurumaiel replied, smiling at Fin. "I met Firramer -that's his name- there. He's very kind."

"Why did he run off?" Fin asked.

Nurumaiel laughed and looked over the room. "He said he saw an old friend. Now I'm wondering who he saw." She turned back to Fin. "From where do you come?" she asked.

[Celebmornie]

Celeb smiles at Fin. She hides another yawn with her hand and takes another sip of ale before placing her head on the wall agan. She leans her head back a little to fast and it thuds aganst the wall. "Ouch!"

[the real findorfin]

“From Mirkwood my lady,” was the reply.

[the real findorfin]

“Are you OK, Celeb, no I see not. Come with me.”
Fin pulled Celeb up quickly, supporting her around the waste and took her over to the empty side of the common room, were there was a cushion pew. He lay her down and asked softly, “are you OK?”

[Nurumaiel]

"Mirkwood must be beautiful. I come from Rivendell," Nurumaiel said.

There was a thump and Nurumaiel turned quickly back to Celeb and Fin, and realized that Celeb had hit her head against the wall.

"Are you all right?" Nurumaiel asked worriedly.

[the real findorfin]

“I have never been there myself but it is said to be grand!” Fin talked across the room so as not to offend the lady.

[Celebmornie]

"Ouch! That hurt! Can I have some ice?" She looks up to see Fin standing over her. God I feel like such a clumsy idiot!She thinks bitterly to herself.

[ December 02, 2002: Message edited by: Celebmornie ]

[the real findorfin]

“Anything, you just stay there out of harms way.” Fin rose and went quickly over to the bar where he got the dwarf innkeeper to fetch some ice. He returned and gave it to Celeb. “Is that better?”

[Celebmornie]

Celeb sits up slightly and holds the icce to her head. "I just hope I dont like pass out or die in my sleep." She says with a slight laugh.

[the real findorfin]

“Talking of sleep,” Fin began, “are you OK to stay up in the tavern. Did you say that you had accommodation here?”

[the real findorfin]

“She is OK,” Fin called back to the table, “my fault of course, I knocked her. Awful mistake.”
He turned back to her and smiled.

[Galadel Vinorel]

Autumn smiled over at the man. He seemed nice.

"If I may so inquire, sir, where are you from? And, how do you know Robin?" Autumn looked over at the man, wondering if she had asked too much.

[ December 02, 2002: Message edited by: Galadel Vinorel ]

[the real findorfin]

Is there no one here who will sing for us,” Fin said in a loud voice, “for I am sure there is plenty of song and cheer to be had?”

[the real findorfin]

Fin turned back to celeb, only to find that she had dozed off in his arms.
“oh well, I guess I’m stuck here for the moment,” he thought happily, and let the beautiful elven maiden sleep on.

[Mithadan]

Ardo Longbottom entered the Inn wearing a hat bearing the feather signifying that he was a Shirriff of The Shire. After standing for a time and watching the goings on, he climbed upon a table and shouted "QUIET!"

A silence fell over the room. He tapped his wooly foot in annoyance for a moment, then spoke. "In the absence of Dwarin, our proprietor, I have been asked to monitor this Inn for a bit. Dwarin will, I trust, be back shortly. And while I am pleased that so many of you are getting along so famously, I must tell you a few things about this establishment..."

He lit a pipe, blew a smoke-ring and continued. "The Green Dragon is a place to meet other adventurers, that is true. But the adventuring takes place outside of these walls, please. In fact, two adventurers are seeking companions even now. Dwarin has concocted some plot concerning Erebor, and Ransom is seeking aid as well."

He blew another smoke ring. "However, while The Green Dragon is a fine place to tell a tale or introduce yourselves to one another, it is not the place to chat. Such a place may be foundhere! (http://www.barrowdowns.com/Chat.asp?Size=). Or you may avail yourselves of that magical device known as the Private Message (PM). Or of course you may really get to know one another by adventuring together. But here, everyone must have a chance to speak, so no running conversations please" The Shirriff looked meaningfully at Celebmornie, the real Findorfin and Nurumaiel.

"So enjoy yourselves, but keep in mind the purposes of this place!" Ardo sat to watch the room and its inhabitants.

[the real findorfin]

“I’m sorry my lord shirriff.” Fin claimed sorrow, “but will you drink with us for I seem to be in a predicament, for you see, I may not move on an adventure until this fair maiden has woken. When that happens I daresay that I will moveon.”

“Adrink???”

[Mithadan]

"I don't drink on duty," replied Ardo. Then he assumed a position of listening. "Hark! Even now I believe I hear Dwarin coming!"

[the real findorfin]

"No? Then perhaps someone else would drink with me, so that we may plan an adventure together?""Once again, Sorry My Lord."

[the real findorfin]

“Come now shirriff, one small glass of ale will surely not touch your stomach ? Sit and relax, there is no trouble here.”

[Mithadan]

Ardo's smile faded. "Check your PMs, sir Findorfin," he said.

[the real findorfin]

“Alas, no company is forthcoming. I will sleep here until the fair maiden awakens then with her I shall depart. A good and wholesome night to you all.”
And with that, Fin, assumed a sleeping pose and closed his eyes.

[Dwarin Thunderhammer]

Dwarin burst out of the kitchen with a frazzled look on his face.

"ATTENTION EVERYONE!" He shouted banging a mug on the bar.

"I think now would be a good time to remind everyone of the rules here at the Green Dragon."

Dwarin produced a book from under the counter.

"This is the Red Book of westmarch." (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=19&t=000005)

Dwarin opened the volume and motioned for the patrons to look.

"Please pay special attention to Rules 1-4. I myself am not totally innocent either. I have broken rule five. Everyone read this before you finish your meals."

[ December 02, 2002: Message edited by: Dwarin Thunderhammer ]

[Nurumaiel]

Nurumaiel walked over to Ardo and bowed. "I deeply apologize," she said. "I will remember in the future."

With another bow, she turned to everyone in the room. "Does anyone have a tale they would like to tell?" she asked. "Or maybe a song?"

[piosenniel]

Gimli the Dwarf

To check your PM's - click on 'my profile' at the upper right hand corner of your screen. A list of your private messages will come up - click on the subject and you can view each one.

[Galadel Vinorel]

Robin watched the Elf, Nurumaiel get up and walk over to Ardo. When Nurumaiel asked for anyone to sing or tell a tale, Autumn slide further down in her chair. She had already sung a song; she did not feel like singing another one.

Looking over at Robin, Autumn grinned. Robin was down in her chair like Autumn. Autumn nugged her and asked, "Why don't you sing or tell a tale, Robin? You could tell one about our adventures trying to get food to the hobbits of the Shire. Or ask your friend to tell one," said Auutmn looking over at the man sitting across from them.

[Helkahothion]

"Like you I to come from Mirkwood where I was the servant of Thrandhuil. I grew weary of this and went out for adventure. Witch brought me here today. My D?nedan friend tolled me I could find it here, but for now I didn't had mutch luck." Anuion sayed.

He went on camly:"It is good to see others from Mirkwood in these regions, but tell me in my 4500 years I have never heard of an elf named Findorfin. I'm quite curious when you went out for adventure"
________
Lamborghini urraco history (http://www.lamborghini-tech.com/wiki/Lamborghini_Urraco)

[the real findorfin]

Fin stirred, on hearing Anuion's question and rose into a sitting posture.
"Well, my friend, you will not have known the name Findorfin in Mirkwood for that is not my only name. But ask not for my others for you will get aught but silence. Be content that here and now I am Fin and I am your friend."
And with this, the elf returned to his sleeping posture and closed his eyes once more.

[the real findorfin]

For many minutes the elf dozed, the crackling of the fire and the somewhat subdued noises of the other patrons disappearing into the background.
Suddenly a log fell and a sharp crackle awoke him. He starred around to see that most people were doing.Celebmornie was still asleep beside him on the pew, Nurumaiel was sat with Anuion by the table and the various other occupants were lounging around. Fin shook off his tiredness and gently let Celebmornie slip to the pew, where she continued to rest. He moved over to the table and asked Anuion and Nurumaiel, “do either of you know of any adventures? For I would be willing to journey on one, once the fair Celebmornie is through with me.”
The two elves, one a gaunt and sturdy warrior, the other a slim and beautiful lady, both took on poses of thought before answering. As they thought, Fin repeated the question more loudly, talking to the whole room. “Adventures?”

[Celebmornie]

Celeb stirrs. "Whats going on?" She looks around and sits up. "Fin I am sooooo sorry!" She smiles. "I owe you for that!" She blushes. "I must be going! I have to travel back to Rivendell and Mirkwood then I shall be going home. Does anyone know whear I might find a horse for loan?"

[the real findorfin]

"But surely you are not going so soon, my dear," Fin said, his face taking on a pained expression. "And did you not say that you would consent to let me be your guardian? Now if you must leave then surely thou wilst let me come as well."

[Celebmornie]

"If you want to join me please do! I think you would make very wonderful company!" She smiles.

[the real findorfin]

“Why you are too kind, Celeb”, he said, feigning embarrassment. “But we must not dawdle (although I would long to) for Innkeeper welcomes not overlong conversations, which divert the flow of music and entertainment. But please, where would you like to go?”

[Dwarin Thunderhammer]

Dwarin stepped up to the table of Findorfin and Celbmornie and recited:

"2. Write in complete sentences and in paragraph form. Each post that you make should be at least two paragraphs in length with each paragraph made up of at least two sentences (there are times when a one-line post is appropriate but this should be rare). Separate the paragraphs with a space. This makes your posts easier to read and more enjoyable for everyone. When a character speaks, his or her words should go between quotation marks. "

"That's Rule Two from the red book of westmarch. Please take this conversation to PM. All further conversations in this style will be edited."

[ December 04, 2002: Message edited by: Dwarin Thunderhammer ]

[the real findorfin]

"Sorry Master Innkeeper, but we had already taken your advice." Fin bows low and scurries into the corner, almost daunted by the fuming dwarvf's expression. Celebmornie follows and they huddle, whispering furtively. As Dwarin watches them, Fin turns and seeing him, nods another apology and mouths, "sorry". Dwarin ,"hrumphs" and moves away over to the bar.

[Celebmornie]

Celeb smiles. "I am so sorry! I ment not the disturb you! Just to have some fun!" Gets quiet and sits in a corner where she is hidden by shadows.

[Dwarin Thunderhammer]

Dwarin sighed. Everything had gone quiet the Hobbits who had quite taken over the place earlier were gone and everone was involved in their own conversations.

"Fingolfin how about giving us a tale or a tune. Since you seem very eager tell us something of your home or a legend that you have heard. I think everyone would love to hear."

[Garen LiLorian]

The young man had sat, deep in thought, for a long time. But, upon hearing Dwarin's request, he stood up, still leaning heavily on his spear. "If Findolfin doesn't mind, he said, bowing deeply to the Elf, "I have a tale for you." After recieving the Elf's nod of affirmation, he limped to the center of the room. "Sirs and Madams," he began, "courteous gentlefolk of mortal and immortal heritage, I beg leave of you to tell a short tale. In sooth, mine is not the bard's gift, yet I may hope to enlighten some here among you. The story is that of younger times, of a line of Men both doughty and wise, in particular, of the founder of the house of Lorian, the Elf-friends, who lived in times past on the borders of the Golden Wood." The introduction finished, he stood lost in thought, like a statue, until some of the younger hobbits started fidgeting. He started chanting in a low voice:

"The leaves shone in the sun like gold,
Nimrodel running swift and cold,
Khazad-Dum was fair and young,
The race of Man had scarce begun,
When Gareth walked upon the face,
Of Middle-Earth, he learned the place,
For everything, be it beast or birds,
He spoke to them, and learned their words,

He crossed the mountains fair and tall,
And stood before golden Rauros Falls,
And sorrow came into his breast,
For wandering far he'd ne'er found rest,
And wondered long, that every beast,
Should have its home and secret place,
When home for him he had found none,
Nor wife to love or bear a son,

Then North he came, the Anduin he followed,
'Till darkened woods, they loomed and swallowed,
His spear so bright, his sword so keen,
Glinting in the sun were seen,
By eldest of the eldest race,
And stopped and sat for many days,
And talked of many things unknown,
Of sorrows and an empty home,

Then Fangorn spoke of many things,
Of Elf and Man and bird on wing,
Of Lorien fair and Elvish quest,
And wonder stirred in Gareth's breast,
And North again he traveled fast,
And came to Lorien, the winter past,
The spring had never dawned so fell,
As when he spied there Mariel,

Dancing in the grasses new,
The sun shone on the morning dew,
And Gareth came, entranced he stood,
At the entrance to the Golden Wood,
Unaware the maiden danced,
And sang and all the sorrow passed,
From Gareth's breast, and his heart did swell,
To see her there upon the dell,

The maiden heard his soft footstep,
As Gareth's heart within him leapt,
She turned and fled, and he came after,
His heart was beating ever faster,
Through wood and stream he followed fast,
At Nimrodel they stood at last,
No bridge was there for her to cross,
And Mariel stood, and felt her loss,

And Gareth came, and found here there,
He softly lifted her golden hair,
And spoke her soft, and lovely things,
And felt as if his soul had wings,
And Mariel felt within her heart,
A trembling, like an ensnared hart,
And so Garath caught the lovely maid,
And on the edge of Lorien they stayed,

Garath built a hall of wood,
To please his bride, who ever stood,
Among the trees, and wept alas,
That it should ever come to pass,
That mortal and immortal folk,
Thus being caught, could never hope,
For anything but sorrow to come,
She bore for him a noble son,

But always in her heart she lived,
Among the trees and with her kin,
And ever did she sigh and mourn,
The fairest daughter of Celeborn,
And when the spring did come again,
She left him, and returned to Lorien,
And he was left to curse the fate,
That ere him had led to Lorien's Gate.

The young man stopped. He seemed to come back from somewhere far away, and his eyes came slowly back into focus. He smiled, apologetically, "That is a part of the lay of Garath, founder of the House of Lorien, and my forefather. The whole would be many nights' telling, and describes his search for the Elf-maid Mariel. He searched for her far and wide, for she had left Lorien, and returned to her mother's people in Mirkwood, or perhaps it was the Havens and the West that she sought, none can now tell. But wherever rumor sighted her, Garath followed, until at last his steps led East, and into the Shadow, from which he never returned." Then, having spoken his piece, the young stranger retired to the corner, where he watched, with strange bright eyes.

[the real findorfin]

Fin rose and clapped the tale. “Well spoken friend!” he moved to the center of the room “Here you are, Dwarin, a tale for you.” Fin coughed and then began…..

“There once was an elven king, who had many sons and a beautiful wife. But one night his wife became ill, and over the following months grew weary and was confined to her bed. The king was sad, but on the night of his son’s wedding, one of the younger female guests, a fair and dazzling elf maiden, wowed the king and from that night she became pregnant. Now the King was dark, for a bastard son was a worry to him, but the maiden reassured him, saying that she would leave his palace at once and return to the outlying town. And once the child was born she would leave and never return, so as no one would ever know. She did this for she loved the King deeply and would not see his reputation sullied.
So she waited and at the due time, a child was born and it was a son. The King was relieved for now she honoured her promise to leave but he was loath to let her depart alone. So, for this reason he sent his great friend with her. They travelled for some days when a group of orcs came upon them. The mother protected her baby as orcs made to take it away but as she pulled away, a barbed orc knife cut her in the side. Poison flooded into her system and she fell to the ground, mortally wounded. The King’s friend, who was a great warrior, beat the orcs back and stooping down, picked up the baby from her dying hands and set off at once for the King’s palace.
When he arrived he was bloodstained and tired, for the orcs had given chase, but he fell before the king and pleaded for him to care for the child. The King consented, although he did not admit that the child was his. He let him stay as a squire in his court and he was given good treatment. However, when the child grew to full stature, he decided to leave, so as not to burden the King any more, for he loved his father.
The King was sad, for he had come to love his son too, but consented to his departure. The son, left his kingdom and wandered the far lands in sorrow, and that is the end of this sad tale.”

A few of the occupants coughed and a general silence reigned as Fin finished, and sat down.

“Why…um…thank you Fin,” Dwarin said, breaking the silence. “I wish I hadn’t asked,” he muttered darkly, returning to his place behind the bar. His customer’s were in a sorrowful mood now.

[the real findorfin]

"Nuramaiel, would you sing for us?"
Fin asked the beautiful elf lady.

[Nurumaiel]

Nurumaiel felt herself blushing, but agreed, saying not expect too much from her.

"The Elves don't think of me as an Elf at home," she said. "So don't think I'll come up with wonders. But perhaps you would hear of Galadriel? I'll try, but I don't remember too well..."

Eyes that are wise beyond wisdom
Lady of her golden kingdom
Lady of the Golden Wood
Her head covered with a hood
Her hair flowed down gold
An Elf maid that is not young nor old
Galadriel!
Never have I seen a gold more fair
Than that which shines in your hair
Galadriel! Galadriel!
Never have I seen a gold so bright
That in your forest is alight.

Nurumaiel finished her song, gave a little bow, and sat down, waiting for what the others would say.

[the real findorfin]

"Fabulous, my lady!" Fin's voice was drowned out only by his clapping. "That has lifted the air of opression from the inn, well done." He clapped further.

[The Barrow-Wight]

Barrow-Wight sat as his table nursing a beer and writing steadily in his journal. Over the several evenings he had sat quietly in The Green Dragon, he had been making notes on the talents of the various storytellers. Already he had scribbled several pages in his messy, almost illegible handwriting, and he was beginning to get a clear picture of many people gathered in the room.

Some were obviously talented bards. Garen’s poem, recently sung, had been quite good, and Barrow-Wight, not normally one who appreciated such verse, had found it enjoyable. It had been a welcome break from the idle chatter that had filled the place for so long. He wrote down the name Mithadan with a note to thank him for encouraging conversations of more substance. Barrow-Wight had not lingered at the Dragon to hear meaningless quips, so he greatly appreciated that the focus of the room had turned back toward the telling of tales.

He glanced over to where Dwarin was adding wood to the fireplace. The Dwarf was doing a great job keeping the inn running. People had been unsure if hobbits would warm up to a dwarven host, but they obviously had. As long as he kept them well fed, it was unlikely Dwarin would have any feuds with the locals.

Findorfin’s shout caught his attention. He had been one of the chatters that so often spoke in such short bursts, but lately he had improved with longer speeches. House rules generally stated that all speakers should have at least two paragraphs to say, or it wasn’t worth saying. Hopefully, he and others would consider speaking at greater length, but less often. After all, The Green Dragon was opened to see what writing abilities people were willing to display. No doubt everyone in the room was eager to show they understood what was expected.

[Finiel]

THE GREEN DRAGON INN. Seeing the word 'inn' food came into Sarah's thoughts. She was hungry and tired of travelling and as she went inside the inn she noticed a mirror hanging in the wall beside the door she entered. She saw herself, her hair in tangles and her face had a few smudges.
"I'm never going to be a lady," Sarah sighed.

But before she could get her brush ( to comb her messy hair) her stomach grumbled. As some old people say: hunger is always stronger than vanity among teen-agers. So hearing the noise within her stomach, " May I order a mug of iced tea and three chicken sandwiches, sir." And seeing the fast service at the counter by a strange dwarf she thanked him for his first rate service.

Sarah would have loved to introduce herself to everybody in the inn but seeing that all the people were talking with each other, she just ate her sandwhich like a man who had never eaten for years.

[the real findorfin]

Celebmornie began to doze and Fin turned his attention to others in the Dragon. There were still plenty of people around and Dwarin was still working hard, keeping the Dragon running. To pass the time he looked at each person there, each character was different. A dark man of Umbar still sat in the corner, eyes glowering. Would that every change? Nuramaiel, who had recently stood and performed, was now sat once more. She looked as if she was trying to forget the last few minutes.
“Don’t know why,” Fin thought, “It was pretty good.”

There were some hobbits in the corner, Brandybucks if he remembered rightly, but they were much more subdued than before, the ale had finally got to them. Some were still leaning on their elbows in a feeble attempt to look awake but most had given up and were sleeping, heads on table, snoring loudly. Fin watched as the man from Umbar snorted angrily at them. One rose his head slightly and murmured something, vaguely sounding like a threat but in the middle of it, his head slumped back down to the table. Fin resisted the urge to laugh as the man grimaced, “lighten up,” he thought.

The most interesting patron by far, was the shady figure in yet another corner of the inn, (the Dragon seemed to have many corners). From all appearances the person seemed to be a dread Wight but to Fin’s surprise he was writing in a notepad.
“Very unnatural for an unnatural being,” Fin mused.

Dwarin bustled past on some other errand designed for the maintenance of his business and that got Fin wondering, “how many kegs of ale did the place have?” Customers had been buying all night. As if on cue, the doors opened and a group of four dwarves entered, each carrying a large barrel each. They dropped them down beside the bar and their leader called in a loud voice, “Dwarin!”
One or two of the hobbits were roused but mumbled only a few words before falling back down onto the table surface. “What?” a voice called from one of the back rooms.
“Your ale is here!”
Dwarin came bustling back, face red and blustering.
“Back entrance, Nari, back entrance!”
“Humphh.” Nari looked displeased.
“Oh, well bring it through here then,” Dwarin compromised, and the dwarves picked up the kegs and carried them behind a still muttering innkeeper.

As he was thinking, a new maid entered and ordered some food. Fin sidled over to her and sat down. “Hello, are you new here? What do you think of the place?"

[ December 04, 2002: Message edited by: the real findorfin ]

[Nurumaiel]

Firramer smiled at Autumn. "Perhaps I will tell a tale soon, hobbit maid," he said. "Though I am sure you and Robin have much more interesting tales to tell. Don't you, Robin?"

But Robin was not looking at him. She was staring across the room at the Elf-maid who had just stood up and sang. Then she slowly turned her eyes back to Firramer, and, laughing, shoved him.

"Firramer, why did you not tell me that Nurumaiel was here?" she demanded, her eyes sparkling.

"I was waiting for you to find out," Firramer said in reply. "I thought you'd never get around to seeing her."

Robin grabbed Autumn's hand and began dragging her towards the Elf. "Come on, Autumn, come meet Nurumaiel!"

As they arrived at the table where Nurumaiel was sitting, Robin tapped her on the shoulder and put on a gruff voice.

"Would you like some tea, perhaps? I'm afraid we haven't got any of that miruvor or whatever you Elves drink."

Nurumaiel smiled and said, "No thank you, Dwarin."

"Lovely song, by the way, Nurumaiel," Robin said in the same gruff voice, while Autumn tried not to giggle. "I wish I could see Galadriel. She must be fair beyond words."

Nurumaiel seemed to be thinking. One, Dwarin didn't know her name yet. She had not yet introduced herself to him. Two, would Dwarin call a song about an Elf 'lovely'? Three, Dwarin would never say Galadriel was fair, let alone wish to see her!

Nurumaiel whirled around and saw who had been speaking. "Robin!" she cried, catching her friend up in a hug. "Of all things! You had me fooled, lass." She looked at Autumn. "And who is this fair maiden?" she asked, making Autumn blush.

"Autumn Gamwich, a friend of mine," Robin replied. "Autumn, this is Nurumaiel Firithbor from Rivendell."

"I'm very pleased to meet you, Autumn," Nurumaiel said, bowing in her chair.

"I've heard a good many songs and tales," said Robin. "I've a mind to write them all down when I get home. I do remember, you know. Every word. They're worth keeping. I wonder if anyone else would honor us with a tale or song?"

[the witch king]

The hobbit broke Amrons gaze as he slumped back down in his chair,"insolent little beast" he said under his breath. If the halfling hadnt have been sorounded by his friends Amron would have gladly draged him outside to teach him how to talk to his betters, but as it was he would let it lie.

He looked around the inn he seen fin sniggering at him how dair he! It was at times like this he missed umbar people in the north should learn some respect for some one of such high blood as he, but what could be expected of elves and there lap dogs. He drank deeply from his ale pulled a peace of meat that had been stuck between his teath for some time and flicked it at the sleeping hobbit and smiled wickedly to him self.

[ December 04, 2002: Message edited by: the witch king ]

[Mithadan]

Ardo Longbottom bustled into The Green Dragon wearing his trademark, feather adorned Shirriff's hat. He bore a rolled-up scroll under his arm. Nodding to Dwarin and carefully detouring around the seated Wight, he proceeded to the end of the bar and unrolled the scroll. He affixed the parchment to the wall above the bar, then cleared his throat. "Announcement, people!" he cried. "Adventurers wanted!" Then he backed away as patrons crowded about the notice he had posted.

Dwarin grumbled something about "fool Hobbits disturbing the customers" then inspected the notice. It read:

Findereg, Elf of Mirkwood, seeks adventurers to assist in a trade mission to Laketown. Reasonable pay and usual benefits. Payment of wages guaranteed in the event of untimely death. Death benefit doubled in the event of consumption by spiders or dragons.

For details, speak with Susan Delgado in The Shire. Please refer to the mission by name. It is called "Roll Out the Barrels."

[Kiara]

Tired and foot-sore, Parin, a young dwarf who had been longing for adventure, wandered in behind the 4 ale-bearing dwarves that had come to supply the inn owned by a dwarf she had only heard of in legend: the great Dwarin Thunderhammer. Parin Stonemouth had been disappointed of late when an expedition she was to have been a part of was postponed due to squabbling in other parts....So, since she had already packed her belongings, she had taken up with the first travelling party going anywhere at all....

....Which just happened to be a band of dwarves going to the Green Dragon.

"The Green Dragon," she had thought,"hmmm, maybe they are in need of an assistant cook or maid there? Perhaps I just need a change of scenery, and working among hobbits would be just that..."

So, throwing her braids back over her shoulders and straigtening her woolen cloak, she raised her chin and eyes with an attempt at confidence to face the blustering Dwarf she had spotted upon her arrival.

"I just hope he doesn't think I'm completely ignorant. I'm not sure I have much to offer the place. Really, the experience will benefit me much more. Well, here we go!"

And with that she marched across the room to apply with the one she held in such high esteem.

[Dwarin Thunderhammer]

As the young female Dwarf began to walk out the door Dwarin grabbed her by the back of her shirt.

"And where are you going young one?" The inkeeper inquired.

Palin was suprised. "I was just going to leave, seeing as there's no work to be done here." She said as her suprise turned to dejection.

"Oh no your're not! There's plenty to do!. And I say you'd better get to work!" Dwarin replied with a gleam in his eye.

Dwarin took her coat and hat and handed them off to Miss Violet who put them away in the coatroom.

"First off, it seems our guests are a bit bored. Why don't you sing them a song or tell them a tale. Perhaps the story of your Brother and the Spider?"

With that Dwarin pounded his mug on the counter again.

"May I have your attention."

The customers had quite gotten used to Dwarins makeshift gavel by now and they knew that something was afoot by the framiliar ringing of metal on oak.

"This here is Miss Parin! She's from my hometown!"

Several Hey-ho's, Hello's and other miscellaneous greetings erupted from the room.

"She's going to be helping me out for a bit here at the Dragon for a while!" Several more cheers. "You'd better treat her well or else I'll take care of you personally." Dwarin glared at some of the more critical and mischevious hobbits. "Miss Palin is going to give us a tale or a song or two. So let her entertain you for a bit, I'm sure you won't be dissapointed."

Dwarin leaned down to Palin's ear

"You're on."

[ December 04, 2002: Message edited by: Dwarin Thunderhammer ]

[VanimaEdhel]

Menelduliniel and Estelarion cheered for Palin.

"I wonder what song she will sing?" Estelarion said.

"Well, I am getting a closer view," Menelduliniel smiled.

The two quietly moved closer to the Dwarf.

"A petty Dwarf!" Estelarion hissed in distaste.

"A prejudiced Elf!" Menelduliniel hissed back.

"A murderous Elf!" Estelarion retalliated.

"Shhhh!" Menelduliniel retorted. Then, as an afterthought, she added, "A prissy Elf who uses a meat cleaver to defeat his foes!"

She then elbowed him hard, signalling that the conversation was over and that she had won.

They looked at the female Dwarf, Palin, and waited for her to begin...

[Durelin]

A new regular at the Green Dragon (and any other stop around Hobbiton that would serve him ale), Hamfast Greenhand was seldom in the dark corners of the inn, mainly he was atop a table that had room for his large hairy feet to dance his jig on. A cheery fellow, at best!

Hamfast: "Good day to you Dwarin Thunderhammer, I would check your larders if I were you! Hamfast Greenhand always has room for more of your delicious seed-cakes, and of course I can not have them without atleast a little ale!"

Do not be confused by Hamfast's "little" there, he has a wonderful sense of humour!
smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

But Hamfast is not always in a drunken stoop, he is a brave, stout hobbit, who always lets his Tookish side come through!
smilies/biggrin.gif

[Finiel]

Some people were now asleep, some were still trying to sing but their voices were now a bit hoarse because of the long night. A girl came in who seemed to be looking for work and dwarves delivered barrels (probably ale).

Soon daylight started to enter the inn. It was already morning and she had forgotten to get a room.
" Is there still a single room available?" she asked the dwarf. But the dwarf just looked at her as if waiting for something, and just in time she remembered that she had not yet introduced herself to the innkeeper.
"Oh! Im sorry. My name is Sarah Danigwiel im from the...um...the west. You must be the great Mr. Thunderhammer."

"Well, I thought you'd never remember to introduce yourself. There is one room on the second floor with a bathingroom that is quite fit for lady like you," he winked and gave Sarah the guestbook to check-in her name.

As she was writing her name in the guestbook, a man walked towards her and asked her if she were new at the inn. This time she did not forget her manners,
"Yes I'm new here. Sara Danigwiel's my name. I think the place is fine for the study I have to do. By the way, what's your name and what are you? A man, an elf, a halfling, a dwarf, or an orc?" Sarah asked good naturedly. smilies/smile.gif

"The name's Fin. Findorfin" he replied.

[piosenniel]

This place of Men smelled much like the others he had known. The sweet smell of prey and fresh flesh mingled with the acrid stink of smoke and sweat and the sour odor of underlying fear. Even the scent of the Elves rankled him. His lips drew back from his sharp teeth and a low growl fled him as he smelt their fair fragrance, like “everlasting spring neath showers that glitter silver in the grass in Valinor.” He smiled, in his own way, at that line of poetry – the last Elf he had had for dinner recited it prettily for him. A lovely prelude to a meal . . .

Another undercurrent came to him, carried by the day’s soft breezes. Dwarves! Smelling of earth and rock and charred meats and soured mashes. Dwarves, with their wicked, sharp axes. Fierce when cornered, and quick on their short, stout legs. Then the smells of frightened ponies and horses. He could almost sense their eyes wide with fear and the lather on their flanks as they ran from him. They were nervous now, sensing his heavy presence.

‘Kuduk!’ ‘Periain!’ came the twinned voices of his son and daughter as a lighter scent now carried to them. Their great red tongues hung out between their sharp fangs as yellow eyes gleamed in remembrance of those sweet morsels.

High, on a distant hill, the three waited for nightfall. Grey shapes, unmoving, amid the shadows of the grey rocky outcropping .

[ December 04, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Finiel]

[ December 05, 2002: Message edited by: Finiel ]

[Birdland]

Elfred raised his mug in greeting as young Ardo Longbottom marched into the inn, obviously on official Shirriff's "bizness", his badge of office waving in time to his officious strides.

Normally Elfred had little good to say about the Shirriffs of the Four Farthings; "Bunch of Cock-Robins they are, strutting around trying to find something to do, putting on airs while the real working-folk of The Shire take care of their own problems."

But Ardo was a good sort, in his way, and on more than one occasion had looked the other way when Elfred had bedded down in a farmer's haymow to save the price of a bed.

After Ardo had stated his business and left, refusing all offers of "one for the road", (most unusual for a Shirriff), Elfred gave Nop a friendly nudge with his toe and commented "Adventures? What next? Adventures are for those who don't have to work for a living. If you've lived as long as I have, you learn that adventures come to you, and seldom are they welcome. A body shouldn't have to go looking for them. 'Adventures'. Fie! They'll have all the young bucks round here riled up, traipsing off like that Mad Baggins, with announcements like that!"

Elfred was having all the adventures he wanted just sitting and watching the passing scene at the Green Dragon. A dashing, yet strangely seedy-looking Elf had been plying his wiles amongst the fair Elf-maids. A group of Rangers had come from the wilderness, settling in a corner and keeping their business to themselves. Then, wonders of wonders, a Dwarf-woman actually entered the bar seeking employment. One did not often see the female kind of Durin's folk (actually, Elfred had never seen one before.)

None of this impressed Nop in the least. The sheepdog had lain under the table, never responding to the tales and songs floating around him, except for the twitching of his paws as some air entered his dreams.

But suddenly, the black, shaggy head raised up, and the little collie flipped upright, sniffing the air and uttering a deep, low growl.

"Nop, sirrah, what's to do?" Elfred asked with a puzzled look. The little sheepdog slinked silently over to the window of the inn. Putting his paws on the window sill, he looked out into the deep night, and again uttered a terrible, threatening snarl.

[ December 05, 2002: Message edited by: Birdland ]

[piosenniel]

The sun now threw its last pale light up into the darkling sky. And was rebuffed, as thick night drew down upon the rim of the world. A yellow, gibbous moon hung low on the eastern horizon and a few brave stars gleamed fitfully here and there among the scudding clouds.

Tough leathered pads maneuvered rock and turf as three low, dark figures loped silently down the rise, heading south.

*******************************************

It was late night now, and only the bravest travelers dared the shadowy roads into Bywater. None were on the road as they crossed The Water and turned east, travelling in the expanse between the river and the Great East Road. Keeping to the shadows, their long stride ate up the distance to the town, with only the rare ray of the oft hidden moon as it found their eyes to betray their presence.

They swung well away from the stable and pens once they neared the Inn, careful to stay upwind of the animals. The occasional dog gave voice as they passed by, but the bark was quickly followed by a yelp as the owner silenced the noise with a curt command and a sharp yank on the collar . . .

[the real findorfin]

"The name's Fin. Findorfin" he replied. "Elf traveller and adventurer." He slid into the pew next to her and relaxed.
"Where do you come from, my lady."
Sarah blushed, she had never been called a lady before and had only just rebuked herself for looking so unlady-like.
"Why you exaggerate, Fin!"
"Not so," came the reply.

Another dog barked and was silenced, "what is all that about?" Fin commented.
"I don't know," Sarah replied, "maybe something is troubling them."
"Yes," Fin mused, "there must be something afoot. Excuse me, my lady."
Sarah bowed as the handsome elf left her table and moved toward the bar.

"Dwarin," Fin called, hoping the dwarf would here from in whatever room he was 'out back'.
"Yes what now," came the angry reply.
"I would like a word."
"Come through!"
Fin was startled that Dwarin would let him behind the counter but followed the voice and came through into a cellar-like room. Dwarin was busy moving the ale kegs, "give me a hand would you? Those ale merchants just left them in the middle. No thought to their customers." Fin assisted and they were all soon put into thir correct places.
"Now what is it," the dwarf asked, still irritable, “for I have precious little time for pleasantries.”
Fin laughed, “now calm yourself Dwarin, I was wondering whether you new of any trouble around these parts. The dogs seem to be sounding a lot more pensive than in recent times. And those hobbits just drag on their collars until they’re silent. It seems most unusual to me.”

[piosenniel]

Carchmoroth halted as they neared the dark yard of the Inn. Yellow, flickering light shone out through the thick paned windows. And the din of voices from the two-leggeds flowed out in a confusing crescendo and swirled round their listening ears. ‘They are eating and drinking and telling stories.’ he murmured to Dûrêl and Dúgoroth, as he sorted out the words and sounds he heard. ‘That is good.’

He motioned with a nod of his head for them to go round the building as they had planned. The two faded silently into the blackness to the west of the building and disappeared from sight.

************************************************** ***************

There were screams from the kitchen. And then Miss Violet and the serving girls came flying into the Common Room followed by the gibbering wash-up boy. Dwarin strode quickly to sort out what had frightened them. A thick silence fell over the room behind him as he stood in front of Miss Violet, trying to understand what she was saying to him.

She pointed a single finger, her arm shaking with fear, at something to his rear. He heard the sharp intake of breath of several patrons, and he turned cautiously. The sight of a massive silver-backed, grey Warg herding the patrons into a tight knot in the middle of the floor made him gasp. Then he felt himself being pushed toward the center by the kitchen staff as two large black Wargs with glints of grey in their sleek coats silently padded into the Common Room from the kitchen area, one from each entrance near the ends of the bar.

Soon there were three pair of yellow eyes following the slightest movements of the gathered patrons. The younger male and female Warg, who had come through the kitchen, now stood alert atop the broad surface of the bar. Their keen, intelligent gazes marked how the two-leggeds breathed raggedly, and how the stench of fear lay heavy on them. The young male, Dúgoroth, curled back his lips in a fanged smile, and lunged forward as if to leap at prey. His sister-twin, Dûrêl, snapped at him, growling low, and he pulled back quickly, snarling.

She nodded at their father, Carchmoroth, as he stood now on a wide oak table near the entryway, pacing its length, his gaze ever on the gathered patrons. He paused, looking directly at Dwarin, as if he recognized him as one in charge. And then he spoke in a low, husky voice, and all understood him.

‘This is the place where creatures may speak their tales in poetry or deathless prose - so have I heard in my long travels north and south. Will you hear the ancient tale of our dread ancestor?’

He nodded at the Barrow Wight, sitting calmly at his table, his pen now stilled. The fell creature of the Downs raised his tankard to the beast and looked about, wondering how those gathered up might now respond . . .

[ December 05, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[the real findorfin]

Fin pulled hs head quickly behind the doorframe of the cellar as a warg turned to look his way. Out of all the patrons,he was the only one not to be in the common room. Were others on the second floor asleep? Fin was loath to fight the Wargs, for one there were too many of them, and secondly, they seemed not to be attacking. Fin's ambassadorial side came out as he decided to wait. "No point in making a tense situation worse," he thought. He stood tense, and waiting, listening intently to the noises of the common room.

[Garen LiLorian]

The huge beasts entered the tavern, jaws slavering and eyes gleaming with reflected firelight. Sitting alone in the corner, where he had retired after his song, Garen LiLorian watched them come, and gripped his spear to him. He noted the crowd shrinking away, and the outraged glare of the Dwarven innkeeper. His eyes were drawn briefly to the calm, collected form of a thirty-something Man, who alone of the crowd seemed unfazed by the entrance of the dark and fearsome beasts. The eldest of these spoke, and his words were foul and mangled, yet understandable. Garen had seen and heard of many things in his day, but a Warg professing no ill intent surpassed even his credulity. He feared a trick, and his eyes passed again over the company, this time noting who might be of use in a fight, and who would need protecting. His leg throbbed, and he stifled a groan of pain. It might be that he, for the first time in his life, would fall into the second category, he thought to himself grimly.
Then he raised himself from his bench, and, spoke to the Dwarven landlord, his eyes and spear point never leaving the younger, and apparently more hostile of the two Wargs pacing the floor. "Sir" he said, "This is your house, and I will abide by your decision, whether it be to let the beast talk or to drive it forth into the night, yet I like not the idea of such a fell creature as this profaning your house, and I would be glad for the opportunity to set my father's spear, Moriecalmo, to use, to drink the blood of such a foul beast, and send it wailing into the darkness. The decision is yours." He set himself in readyness, favoring his right leg. The younger Warg took note, and grinned, his tongue lolling from between blackened and awful teeth.

[the witch king]

Amron stood on the out side of the crowed, griping the hilt of his sword but not yet drawing it. He showed no fear but had aloud him self to be hearded in to the middel of the room, "I could escape they are only 3 and they have many to watch" he thort to him self, but looking around and seeing the look of fear and horror on the faces of the mild mannerd hobbits not acustemd to such situations brourt a new feeling to Amron, pity he looked at the nearest warg it would know the wrath of umbar if it tryed to get its fangs in to him or the little group of Brandybucks who had asembeld just behind him. He staired past the beast and seen fin looking up from the celler, Amron gave him a nod, "Just say the word Dwarin, you have my sword" he said in a loud voice.

[ December 05, 2002: Message edited by: the witch king ]

[Finiel]

The three Wargs that entered the inn broke the night's merriment. Everybody had shrunk away in their places wishing they were somewhere else rather than being eaten by these evil-looking creatures.

But Sarah was excited at the sight of the beasts. After all, it was the first time she had ever seen a Warg (up close, too!). She had a few doubts about the men who wanted to drove the Wargs away.
"If they do, there will be a riot and everybody might get hurt," she thought.

Sarah cringed at the thought of violence. So she rose from her chair, half-eaten sandwich in her hand, and said nervously to the innkeeper,
"Um...e-excuse me sirs, i think we should
le-let the beast i mean the Warg tell his tale and after that we'll see what happens next. I mean its just my point of view like um... just forgive me if you don't like my idea." And then she sat quickly and drank her mug of iced tea in one gulp to calm her nerves.

[piosenniel]

Carchmoroth nodded toward the girl who had just spoken. Then his gaze surveyed the fair-haired man who leaned upon his spear, noting how he moved with effort and how his right leg seemed to pain him. ‘Bravely spoken, child of Man.’ he said in a clear voice, his yellow eyes glinting with amusement. ‘Ever has it been the nature of you beasts to drive us from the lands where once our Wolven race dwelt. I, too, would expect no less from you.’

He turned his head toward the dark-haired man whose hand even now caressed the hilt of his sword, noting how the urge to flee fought with his inclination to help the ‘lesser’ folk. ‘An admirable trait for a warrior, Southern Man. To stay one’s own need for safety to protect the pack.' He smiled a wolvish smile. ‘Ware though that those you think less of do not surprise you one day.’

He saw the Man’s eyes flick toward the opening in the floor behind him. ‘Folly to give your allies away so.’ he thought to himself.

‘Come up! Let us see who lurks below.’ The chill request rang down through the cellar.

[ December 05, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Birdland]

The first thing Elfred did as the wargs crashed into the inn was to scoop up Nop, who set up a frantic scrambling in his arms as he raged at the beasts who had dared sully this place of Men folk. Elfred's arms were covered by scratches from Nop's claws, even through the thick wool of his shirt.

A sharp command from his master finally made the sheepdog still in his arms, but Nop continued to voice low growls, while his yellow, but still sharp teeth were bared at the intruders.

Elfred looked longingly at his crook, mere inches away beside the table, but he could not grasp it without releasing Nop; and this he would not do, for the little collie would immediately attack, and would be doomed fighting three Wargs in such close quarters.

"Nop, you're right, it's that un-natural for these fell beasts to be in the very heart of the Shire, waltzing into the Green Dragon as if they were just folks. Makes me reconsider my choice of accomodations, it does."

"But for now," he said, glaring at his and Nop's most hated enemies, "it seems we must attend to a tale."

[ December 05, 2002: Message edited by: Birdland ]

[the real findorfin]

Fin listened to the Wargs chilling voice, but wasn't expecting to here, ‘Come up! Let us see who lurks below.’

He swallowed and, making sure his sword was covered by his cloak, moved into the doorway.
"Peace Warg!" Fin held his hands up and, taking a wide berth of the glaring wargs, moved over toward Amron and Celebmornie.
"Sorry friend," Amron muttered.
"Don't worry," Fin replied, not much I could of done.
This was a lie and Amron knew it but he nodded for Fin's politeness, even in such a dire situation as the one they were in.

[Susan Delgado]

Susan watched Findorfin creeping up on the Wargs, trying to hide his sword. No, no.
She moved around behind the hasty Elf and grabbed him around the shoulders. She covered his mouth with her hand to quiet his startled squack, then dragged him back to the rest of the group. Before she removed her hand, she murmered, "Let them be. They're not harming anyone; they only want to tell a story," into his ear.

She removed her hand, and he turned around to face her. His face was livid. "But what about after? They'll kill us then! If they're even telling the truth."

Susan shook her head and determinedly faced the Wargs. "If that happens, we'll deal with it. Right now, they aren't harming anyone."

Fondorfin just muttered to himself.

[ December 05, 2002: Message edited by: Susan Delgado ]

[piosenniel]

At a signal from Carchmoroth, the two younger Wargs set up a chilling howl, lasting only a brief moment. It stirred memories long buried of that loathesome wasteland in the North where once the Dark Lord dwelt. Angband! Where Morgoth strove to keep the silmaril from Beren and fair Lúthien.

The last echoes of the howl died away. Into the stillness of the room came the voice of the older Warg.

‘A tale, if you will, concerning the history of one of the great ones of our race.’

As if a Wolven bard, he chanted:

Then Morgoth of Huan’s fate bethought
long-rumoured, and in dark he wrought.
Fierce hunger-haunted packs he had
that in the wolvish form and flesh were clad,
but demon sprits, dire did hold;
and ever wild their voices rolled
in cave and mountain where they housed
and endless snarling echoes roused.

From these a whelp he chose and fed
with his own hand on bodies dead,
on fairest flesh of Elves and Men,
til huge he grew and in his den
no more could creep, but by the chair
of Morgoth’s self would lie and glare,
nor suffer Balrog, Orc, nor beast
to touch him. Many a ghastly feast
he held beneath that awful throne,
rending flesh and gnawing bone.

There deep enchantment on him fell,
and anguish and the power of hell;
more great and terrible he became
with fire-red eyes and jaws aflame,
with breath like vapours of the grave,
than any beast of wood or cave,
than any beast of earth or hell
that ever in any time befell,
surpassing all his race and kin,
the ghastly tribe of Draugluin.

Him Carcharoth, the Red Maw, name
the songs of Elves. Not yet he came
disastrous, ravening, from the gates
of Angband. There he sleepless waits;
where those great portals loom
his red eyes smoulder in the gloom,
his teeth are bare, his jaws are wide;
and none may walk, nor creep, nor glide,
nor thrust with power his menace past
to enter Morgoth’s dungeon vast.

Now lo! . . .


The great Warg’s eyes caught the movement as the Southron’s hand closed round the hilt of his sword. He bit off the chant in mid sentence, his eyes blazing. The two in the rear lowered their heads, and moved them back and forth in a sinuous motion, watching. Their bodies tensed, as if to spring upon the group, their tails held high in anticipation.

One short growl from Carchmoroth, and they sprang, but not upon the frightened throng. Leaping from the bar top, they moved like the wind back through the kitchen, and out the door at a dead run.

Their sudden movement had drawn the eyes of the patrons, and Carcharoth leapt from the table’s top at the window to his right, his nails finding bare purchase on the smooth oak as his legs propelled him thorough the splintering glass and wood.

And they were gone . . . racing North once more.

Still did the last words of Carcharoth ring in the ears of those left behind.

‘Another time, good neighbors. Then shall we finish the poem . . . perhaps . . .’

____________________________________________

From: The Lay of Leithian; The Lays of Beleriand; J.R.R. Tolkien

************************************************** *****************

smilies/cool.gif smilies/tongue.gif The Warg Pack Players smilies/tongue.gif smilies/cool.gif

smilies/biggrin.gif Soon to be opening in an RPG near you! smilies/biggrin.gif

[ December 05, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Dwarin Thunderhammer]

"Bloody wargs. Next time they come in here they wont be telling no poem. In fact they might have poems told on them. Seeing as they'll be turned into rugs!"

Dwarin looked at his patrons and caught saw a range of people stunned frightened and angry.

"I do apologize for this intrusion everyone. Next time those slobbering beasts won't get off so easy."

Everyone still looked a bit uneasy.

"Well, I don't know if it will help but to help everyone forget this little incident I'll give every one of you a free round on the house!"

Several of the more inebriated Hobbits cheered. They most likely had forgotten anyway. The rest of the crowd mumbled an approval and went back to their own business.

"Dira, I'd be pleased if you would keep the bar for a few minutes. As soon as I take care of some business we'll talk."

Dira shot Dwarin a scowl that would have frozen a Balrog. She didn't like the idea of keeping a counter that was just about to be flooded with customers demanding free drinks.

"Ermm I'll get you some help." Dwarin said a bit nervously.

"I'm sure Holly would be glad to help you."

Dwarin snagged the young hobbit trying to duck out of view.

++++++++++++++++++++

Business taken care of for the moment, Dwarin set about securing The Green Dragon from any further intrusions. First he went back through the kitchen and found the door battered but not broken. He shut the door and laid an iron bar across it. No more surprises from that direction.

He then set about shutting all the windows up. Most buildings in those parts had shutters but Dwarins shutters weren’t exactly normal. Dwarin had one piece metal plates on hinges that served as shutters. The plates covered the whole of the window making it practically impossible to get in from the outside once they had been shut. Most hobbits thought these senseless and impractical. As they did the stone construction. But the combination of these two made the Green Dragon one of the safest buildings in those parts of the Shire.

Shutters closed and doors barred Dwarin made his way back to the counter. He found Dira frantically pouring drinks for the customers. She looked like she could rip the head off a troll. On the upside everyone seemed to have forgotten about the warg incident.

[the real findorfin]

Fin wandered up to Dwarin, "Nice idea, the free drinks."
"Um," Dwarin scowled, "what else could I do!"The elf laughed,"well everybody seems to have forgotten already, especially those Brandybucks."
Dwarin gave a small grin, "that doesn't take much."
Fin lughed again and moved away, over to Amron, "didn't do much good there did we." Amron scowled, Fin realised how alike it was to Dwarin's.
""Not your normal fight was it."
"No excuses needed my friend." Fin reached out his hand and Amron, after some thought, took it and shook it.
"Perhaps some elves are alright," he thought.
Fin laughed, as if sensing the thought.

[Kiara]

As the chill left on the room by the haunting chant of the Wargs began to thaw, Dwarin moved towards the she-dwarf once more and nudged her in the back.

"Now is your chance, young woman!" He said in a gruff voice, though with a shade of warmth that Parin was beginning to recognize. She could tell that her presence had evoked an equivocal response in the patrons at the inn; but all it had taken was a few snide remarks from elves who had moved closer to her, menacingly?, to spark the inner fire that she hid.

"PARIN not Palin; Parin Stonemouth, thank you very much!" She said, with a flash of passion in her eyes...

"Oh ho!" cried the elves, with their usual playfulness, "A fiesty one! What would you tell today, my lass?"

Rankled by their teasing (though it had been good-natured), Parin pulled herself up to her full height of four-feet-and-three and glared at the light-hearted elven group.

"I'll have you know I am fully 100 years old, and therefore grown by the standards of my people and not a lass, as you address me," She replied testily (titterings of laughter all around the room, and a grim though amused smile from the solemn entity in the corner). "In fact, it is full 20 years since I have been called that by any save my four older brothers, which puts me in mind of a story I will submit to you, if you will condescend NOT to interrupt me!"

"Hear it we will, gentle dwarf, be not afraid of Estelarion, he speaks before he thinks. By your flaxen braids, I'll have your tale and have quiet respect for you until the finishing of it!" responded the open-hearted Menelduliniel.

"Then I begin," Parin replied with an obliging little curtsey, and then in a sing-song voice:

In the days of Smaug, great Worm under the mountain (foul beast bred by He who is not named on earth), a battle was waged between five armies for the restoration of Erebor to my kinsmen. My brothers, four there were, answered the summoning to war sent out by Thorin in his need. The youngest of these four, Davin by name, was closest to my heart and the best friend of my youth. It is his craftmanship that wrought this brooch you see now at my neck, and his song with which mine was entwined from the days of my first utterance. Davin, gentle, yet bold, the most able of intricate designs of his peers, and a dreamer of dreams more fair than the visions of elves---

"Hrmmph!" snorted Estelarion.
"Hush!" muttered Menelduliniel, with an amused grin .
She must have added that to get back at us, well done! Parin Swordtongue, it should be!.

---more fair than the visions of elves (she repeated insistantly), was, alas, chosen by Aule and Mandos to leave the realm of the living before his beard had quite reached his broad chest. Though he survived the battle, and my family and I settled triumphantly with our folk in the realm of the Lonely Mountain, he was not to walk amongst us for long. In a doomed journey, my dear brother and friend left to investigate the disappearance of a supply shipment, intented for Lake Town and Erebor. He and 2 others were lost, it is thought in the hairy grips of one of the cursed spawn of Ungoliant in the dark paths of Mirkwood; but accurate details of his demise are unknown, and my heart breaks to think of his strong voice and sure hands: hands that will never embrace me or my kinsfolk again in this world.

Listen to my tale, O Supposed Adventurers, and know that I grieve his loss and desire revenge. But who am I but a dwarf maiden, and how will I journey unless aided?

With that, she stood, fiery eyed and flushed from the exertion. She had never spoken even half so much in front of a group before....Where was an apron to hide in or that kind Miss Violet to scurry her away to the kitchen where she felt more at home?

[ December 05, 2002: Message edited by: Kiara ]

[Estelyn Telcontar]

Díra fumed inwardly as she poured drinks for the inn's guests. She had intended to be back home by now, doing the work she loved. But instead of making the fine jewelry for which she was known far beyond the boundaries of her own land, here she was, playing barmaid for a motley crowd of various races.

Not even for such an old friend as Dwarin would she waste her time and her skills like that! She was determined to leave the very next morning...

[Kiara]

Seeing her opportunity and seizing it, Parin retreated to the familiar confines of Food & Drink by coming to Dira's aid.

"I have heard of you before," she began by way of introduction, "You are the lady who makes such fine jewelry that everyone around Lake Town is clamoring for! I expect you would rather be in your workshop than dawdling around here---Here, I'll take that!"

And with that Parin easily slid into a role she was much more comfortable with (and astute at).

"Alright, who's next?" she said, smilingly.

[Mithadan]

A man stood up in the back of the common room striking his head on the low ceiling. Rubbing his crown ruefully, he nonetheless appluaded the Dwarf's tale. "Well told, friend Dwarf," he cried. "And now that it has been said, where are those who would give her assistance in this quest to seek out the fate of her sibling?"

He drank from his cup and continued. "I am told there are Dwarves cooling their heels after the Erebor mission was cancelled. Another sought to join the Laketown trade mission but was turned away. Perhaps even some Men might aid her. And Dwarin! What say you? Would you aid Parin in organizing this quest?"

[piosenniel]

Holly poured pints until her right arm ached. She smiled prettily at the customers, and turned her face when one leaned in too close and blew their sour breath her way. She could see the end of the line at last and gave a great sigh when the final drop was poured.

She took off her apron, and hung it on the peg just inside the door to the kitchen. Approaching Díra, she waited until she also had finished with her lot, then told her that she would be off now. She had stayed too long as it was.

She wrapped her cloak about her and walked hurriedly to the stable, carrying a small tankard of ale. A kiss on the cheek to the stableboy and the promised pint, then she and her pony were off into the night.

There was business to attend to in Gondor.

[Belin]

Late again! Belin Ibaimendi stared in frustration at the great door of the inn, which was quite cleverly and thoroughly locked. It was safe indeed, she thought, as safe from windblown travelers as from whatever it was that he wished to guard against. She sighed irritably and knocked on the door. "Dwarin!" she cried. "What are you doing?"

Ridiculous. The door was as thick as a young tree, shutting out even the voice of the wind, a far more powerful voice than her own. She considered for a moment, picked up a convenient stone that lay nearby, and pounded on the door with it.

A moment later, the harried face of the innkeeper appeared, and he welcomed her in, closing the door again after her. Belin carefully stowed the stone away.

"You're not keeping it barred, are you?"

"Interruptions," explained Dwarin briefly, his eyes still focused on the goings-on around him. "People are trying to tell stories in here, you know. We can't simply have Wargs wandering in and out..."

"An important business indeed," answered Belin, "and one worthy of listeners. Me, for instance." She stroked the long red feather she wore in her hat, noting the strange looks she'd garnered from the rowdy hobbits for looking like a dwarf and dressing like a Shirriff. She grinned. In another town of the Shire, they'd overcome this confusion by renaming her as Belinda Brandybuck. "Well, perhaps more polite than I've been. Of whose story spoke we now?"

"Oh, we were between," answered Parin, smiling.

"Not exactly," answered Dwarin, "Parin needs help, and if this inn isn't the place to find it, then it certainly ought to be." He looked around the room, pausing for effect. It would have worked better if one of the hobbits hadn't chosen that moment to spill his ale, but the dwarf refused to be daunted. "Anyone?"

[Celebmornie]

Celeb closes her eyes and listens to what is going on. She feels at peace in her quiet corner and dosent want to make anyone mad agan so she makes it look as if she has fallen asleep and listens for any sign of danger.

[Gorothlammothiel]

Soronûmë rode on up to the Green Dragon Inn. The humble beginnings of great adventures, and friendships he had heard. Slowing his steed as he approached he found the inn seemingly peaceful with shutters and doors closed. But there was a light from within, and quiet merry voices could be heard. Contemplating whether to enter the inn, Soronûmë whispered his horse to rest and took seat himslef beneath a nearby tree. With a slight breeze blowing behind Soronûmë began to sing to himself quietly, telling a lost tale. Solitude was something that he pondered now and then, but decided having travelled so far, it was not the time to be alone in thought. Soronûmë brought himself up and made way to the door.

[ December 05, 2002: Message edited by: Gorothlammothiel ]

[the witch king]

"Well my 'friend'!" said Amron to Fin with a slight hint of a grin, "let me get your next ale" he turnd to the bar never in 100years had he thort he would be calling an elf friend! If his father could see him now! "two ales he shouted" the bar looked as thow the wargs had never been, he seen some of the drunken little Brandybucks stagering away from the bar, he smiled to hims self "there not so bad he thort" turning he seen a woman looking over he quickly he changed his face to a scouel as he took the ales to fin.

[ December 05, 2002: Message edited by: the witch king ]

[Kimmy Baggins]

Kimmy enters the Dragon and looks around. She sees many elfs and smiles. She is really good friends with the Baggins Family and decided to stick with that last-name considering being an elf she dosent have one. She sits down at the bar and orders an ale. She removes her hood revealing Long blond hair and Hazel eyes. She smiles at the bartender as he hands her ale and goes over to Celebmornie. "I havent seen you since you went running from Lothlorian when mom tryed to make you marry that elf." Celeb opens one eye lazily. "Well if she sent you to find me then I am sorry but I am not coming home!" Kimmy sits down. "Well you will be happy to hear that that is not why I am here! I just needed an adventure and I came here!" She takes a sip of her ale and laughs. "Havent had this in awhile!" "What do you want?" Celeb asks glaring at the kimmy. "Just to talk with you!" Celeb laughs and sits up. "What about?" "Have you found that special man yet?" Celeb looks at the ground as Fin jumps into her mind. "No! I havent! You?" "Yes! But Galadriel doesn't like him. Says that he isnt good enough!" Celeb laughs. "I believe it!" The two women continue there discusssion and soon are laughing and having a good time!

[Celebmornie]

Celeb gets up. "Want another Ale?" Kimmy nodds her head. "Be right back!" SHe goes and gets 2 ales and comes back to the tabe to find Fin there! "Hello!"

[Ivy of the Woods]

Catriona dismounted her shaggy mare and handed the reins to her lady's boy, Donal. He took the lady's mare, her own and his stallion to the stables of The Green Dragon. Her lady had interesting taste when it came to taverns, never did she stop at the Inns a lady would be expected to stay. She said she enjoyed mixing with the common folk, Catriona thought it was because she had met her late husband in a "common" Inn. Catriona found it was likely there weren't too many more expensive Inns in the Shire but hobbits never ceased to surprise her.
She followed her Lady Laoise into the Inn, with her lady's guard, Padraig close behind.
Laoise and Padraig took to a table while Catriona saw about getting them rooms for the night.

[ December 05, 2002: Message edited by: Ivy of the Woods ]

[Durelin]

"It is worth putting up with Wargs when ya get free drinks!" Hamfast cheered. He hops on the table and does a little jig. Singing:

O'delaly o'delaly
Golly what a day!
More drinks here!
What nicer beer,
Could be served,
In any place heard!
I think I'll stay,
'Till the next day,
I see any Wargs about!

Hooray!
smilies/biggrin.gif smilies/biggrin.gif

[Valeria, Witch of Angmar]

Valeria reached for her mug of ale, surprised when her hand was shaking a little. The wargs had upset her more than she cared to acknowledge. "I thought I left all that behind..." she murmured. "But I didn't think anyone would follow me either..." She remembered the hateful look the stranger had given her earlier, before he'd slipped outside. "He'll be trouble," she said to herself. "I'd best be on my guard." Looking over, she saw Amron drinking with Fin and supressed laugher. "Amron and an elf having ale together," she chuckled. "Now I have seen everything."
Looking around the room, she came to a decision. "Excuse me, all," she said, pitching her voice to carry, "but does anyone think we could use a little music around here?"
Cries of assent greeted her words and she smiled. "Then I hope you don't mind if I offer up my own humble talents as a singer?"
Again, shouts of "yes."
Valeria cleared her throat and said, "This is an old song that a dear friend taught to mek, though I fear it is rather sad."
"Sing anyway!" someone shouted from the far corner. She laughed. "If you wish it so."


"Farewell, farewell,
My home, my love,
I go to fight
For gods above
And to save this land
From shadow's fate.
I stand before
The midnight gate.

Farewell, farewell,
My love, my home,
Your peaceful hills
I'll never roam
Because, my love,
I die today
And now I stand
In judgement's sway."

She smiled at the somewhat shocked expressions. "I warned you it was sad," she said.
"No..." someone whispered. "I'd just forgotten you could sing so well..."
She looked up to the door. "Who's there?!" Her hand went instictively to the hilt of her sword. All she saw was a flash of shadow outside the window, and, after she had returned to her seat, the shadows the fire threw seemed to be figures creeping behind her and the bright blaze seemed to give off no heat...

[Anson Chubb]

A robust hobbit chewing on a warm loaf of bread sat in the corner of the inn's common room. He sat alone at a table that he horded all for himself, and had placed his feet up on the tabletop in front of him. A lover of stories, songs, and food -- he cheered after the performance. His mouth was still full with bread, and out came a muffled groan/shout/cry.

"Cheers! Cheers!"

With his free (and chubby) left hand, the hobbit reached for his mug of ale. Swooping it upwards in a salute towards the performer, some of his ale sploshed over the lid and onto the table top.

"Cheers!"

[Garen LiLorian]

Although he never would have admitted it, Garen was just as glad the Wargs had chosen to flee, rather than fight. "Mayhap it be my fate to fall to such a creature as that," he muttered to himself, seeking again his corner and a stool on which to elevate his leg, "but I need not seek it out, nay, nor endanger such gentlefolk as here present and unable to defend against the jaws of the beast."
Almost immediately, though, his martial feelings were stirred as a young Dwarf lass made a heated request for aid in the finding of her kin, lost in northern Mirkwood. "Well spoken, lady!" He saluted her with raised cup. "Surely, and that is a noble quest. I offer to you such service as I may render. I know not the area of which you speak, but I offer you my spear, and my skills as both hunter and warrior are well known throught Middle-Earth."
*********************************************
The talk had died down, with most of the inn's patrons converging in small groups, to talk about he knew not what. A young, cheerful Hobbit danced a jig, accompanying himself with a rousing chorus of song. Just the thing to lighten the mood, Garen thought, and smiled.
A lady he had not noticed before then stood, and began a song of haunting beauty. Garen sat still, enrapt in the flowing words, and, when she had finished, surprised himself by hobbling over to stand by her. "Fair lady," he began, "It doth please me greatly to hear such beauty, sad as the content may be. I would know, as I had thought myself well traveled before this, where you heard such a song, and whether it be part of a longer work, or perhaps there is a story to go with it."

[Dwarin Thunderhammer]

Dwarin made his way through the crowd to the table Celebmorie was sitting at.

“I warned you about those types of conversations”

Without giving her time to reply Dwarin picked her up by the back of her shirt and brought her into the Kitchen.

“Now as soon as your done doing these dishes you can go ahead and rejoin the group. However, if you can go out there and tell a good tale or sing a good song. I’ll let Miss Violet do them and you can continue your fun.”

[the real findorfin]

Fin downed his drink with Amron and was sitting contentedly when his new friend said, “um, Fin, your lady friend is being taken away by Dwarin.”
Fin was up on his feet in moments and turned in time to see Dwarin and Celeb enter the kitchen. He made swiftly to follow and after a few strides he was beside the door. He opened it slowly to hear, “…ahead and rejoin the group. However, if you can go out there and tell a good tale or sing a good song. I’ll let Miss Violet do them and you can continue your fun.”
Fin entered immediately and stood between the worried elf and the dwarf innkeeper.
“Now, sir surely you would not let such a fine lady ruin her beautiful hands and clothing by washing dishes! Surely she will not speak so again!”
“Doesn’t matter!” The dwarf was surely and sure in his position.
“I see then,” Fin began and with an inward groan, continued, “well will you at least allow me to take her place? I will wash for you, but let the fair maiden go!”

[the witch king]

Truely this night was a stange one, Amron didnt know what was more astonishing a warg attack out of the blue in the middle of the shire, or shareing a drink with Findorfin! It had been awhile since he had any copanionship, he sat by himself again now Fin had raced off to see what Dwarin and Celebmornie where up to, he was a strang elf some how Amron had expected him to be different, most of the few elves he had met befor had been stuck up and far more restraned! Fin was far more how would you say human!
He now looked in the direction of Valeria she seemed to be looking quite on edge, it seemed as if some thing out side was worrying her, he took a draw of his pipe and looked down at his sword hilt something told him he may need to draw it befor the night was threw. He court he eye and smiled as nicely as he could (he wasnt used to smileing!)

[ December 06, 2002: Message edited by: the witch king ]

[Finiel]

The Inn was back to normal. People were again talking, singing, eating, and drinking. Though there were a few surprises: first a dwarf-maid (which is rare in this part of middle-earth), and then the Wargs.
"What's next? Orcs wishing to tell their tale about Mordor? Or maybe talking oliphaunts would come by and drink some ale," Sarah thought as she chuckled to herself.

Then she saw a maiden being taken away to the kitchen by Dwarin for breaking a rule or two. "Boy! This dwarf is quite tough," mused she.
"More iced tea Mr. Thunderhammer!...er...please." she said to the dwarf after Dwarin finished his business in the kitchen.

[Durelin]

Glad that he had lightened the mood, Hamfast strolled over to the bar just as Dwarin was leading a young woman into the kitchens by her shirt. When Dwarin stepped out the hobbit asked him,
"A little harsh there with the lady there, those young hands aren't used to scrubbin' dishes, she might go and rub blisters! Now, you wouldn't want that to happen would ya?" smilies/wink.gif
Hamfast laughed a harty laugh and asked for another ale. He then went to sit down with the new hobbit that was there. He seemed like a cheery sort of fellow, giving poor Valeria a cheer. That was a pretty little song, sad or not, sometimes the sad ones can be the best because they are the most believable. He sat down and spoke to the hobbit,
"Hello sir, I am Hamfast Greenhand, an admirable hobbit of Hobbiton, who might you be? I heven't seen you before in the Green Dragon."

[Kiara]

After having a private conversation with the noble Garen about the possibilities of an expedition, Parin wandered into the kitchen, once again seeking solace. She had not imagined that the story she had guarded so long in her heart would receive such a response and was somewhat dizzied by it....

Looking around for something to busy her fidgety fingers with, she espyed the maiden they had called "Celebmornie" above in the tavern. She was bent over a large load of dishes and looked somewhat abashed. Glancing down at the lady's hands, Parin could not help but notice how fine they were. She quickly hid her own in her cloak; her short, square, nimble-fingered, dimple-knuckled hands that were brown as berries from her long walks, taken when she was particularly dreamy for her brother's presence. The elegantly white hands she saw scrubbing dishes before her were as lark's song to a raven's caw in comparison wih hers.

"I'll do that!!!" she exclaimed to the woman, and then immediately found her face was flushed again.

"No, I must do this duty, for I have earned it as my discipline for my sloth....but, I heard your story, if you would sit and talk with me, I will share mine with you as I work."

So the two chattered away as the sounds of similar occupation drifted down to them from the company above....

[ December 06, 2002: Message edited by: Kiara ]

[Celebmornie]

Celeb smiles at Fin. "I will wash the dishes by myself." She turns to the sink and rolls up her sleves. She starts to draw the water and adds soap. When she finishes with that she starts to put the dishes in. She looks for a scrubber and sees it in the corner. "Looks like I am gonna be stuck here for awhile!" She starts to scrub and Fin and the bartender leave. She starts humming ot herself and soon is almost done with her chore. When she finishes washing the last dish she dry's her hands and walks back into the pub. "I am finished!"

[Durelin]

Hamfast looked up from his conversing with the hobbit and saw Celebmornie walk out of the kitchen. "Ah, done already I see, I guess Dwarin did not put you to too harsh of work m'lady!" He smiled at Celebmornie and went back to talking with the hobbit. This was a nice inn, with some interesting people. He still wondered about the tall man Findorfin, he was a strange silent one indeed. Not the kind you would expect in the Green Dragon, well, by his looks atleast.

[ December 06, 2002: Message edited by: Durelin ]

[Belin]

Belin overheard Hamfast's comment to Celebmornie and nodded. "Yes, Dwarin's conditions seemed quite fair to me," she said, "but you've met only one of them. I'm sure Violet appreciates the washing of dishes, but we appreciate the telling of stories as well, and I'm sure you have some lovely ones. Elves almost always do, in my experience."

Celebmornie looked thoughtfully at the earnest-faced Shirriff. She'd certainly heard some good stories here tonight, and maybe it was only fair for her to reciprocate. She remembered the song she was working on and cleared her throat...

[Gorothlammothiel]

Soronûmë passed through the door of the Inn to a room full of cheery characters. Singing Hobbits enjoying a drink, a dwarf behind the bar serving and both elves and dwarves conversing with eachother at tables. The stories were true, this did seem quite a place to begin good friendships.

Soronûmë approached the bar where he was greeted by Dwarin, the owner of the inn.
"Can I get you something Sir?" Dwarin asked.
"Yes a drink, an ale I think" he replied. Dwarin nodded and went to fetch the drink, as he did so he said "New to these parts are you?" Soronûmë, who had been distracted by one of the hobbits dancing, turned and replied "Indeed, I am new here, is it so apparent?" "A little" answered Dwarin as he brought over the ale, "you just seem a little suprised to see us all here." "I don't believe I have seen so many in one place, and of different birth too" Soronûmë said as he glanced around. "Yes we pride ourselves in that here in the Green Dragon, everyone is equal" Dwarin stated proudly, "And what might your birth be Sir?" he continued. "My name is Soronûmë, I apologise for not introducing myself earlier. My Journey has been long..." Soronûmë was about to continue when a fair maiden entered the room from a door along a side wall, declaring "I am finished". Dwarin chuckled to himself as he went to attend another customer. Soronûmë wondered what she had meant by that but took his ale and went to sit at an empty table.

[Durelin]

"Ah, I didn't know of the other condition!" Hamfast told Belin, "I always love a good tale! I will make sure she tells her tale, and I will tell Dwarin if it is not an admirable tale!"
He then called over to Celebmornie, "Whenever you are ready lady elf, you must tell your tale, and tell it well, because if you don't, Dwarin will hear that you have not finished your punishment!" He knew the elf would do fine, "She's a smart one," he thought "and she has that Findorfin for a friend, with his help, she'll tell an excellent tale!"

[anson chubb]

"Hullo, Hamfast."

Chubb had walked past his fellow hobbit, overhearing his words while on the way to fetch himself a refill of ale and another loaf of bread. Washing down the last remaining chunk of bread with the last drops of ale from his mug, the pudgy hobbit leaned in closer to Hamfast.

"Stories, you say? Well, don't leave Chubb out. I wanna hear."

[Donlammenion]

A dark figure entres the small but very adequate inn and looks around.
''Fin my lost friend never in an age did i wonder to find you in this lovely inn''
The two OLD friends embrace and Donlammenion, on seeing a beautiful elf asked to be seated at fin's table.
They sat and fin says (proudly),''may i introduce the dazzling Celebmornie, winner of my heart.''
Don bows to the lovely elf and sits down.

[the witch king]

Amron looked across at the stranger who had sat down at the table "greetings" he said with nod, he took a long hard draw from his pipe "my name is Amron of Umbar" he stared deeply at the newcomer even if he and fin had made friends he had a deep distrust of strangers and old habbits die hard.

[Belin]

Belin looked over her shoulder for Dwarin, but he was nowhere to be seen. She cleared her throat.

"Remember Rule 2 (http://forum.barrowdowns.com/cgi-bin/ultimatebb.cgi?ubb=get_topic&f=19&t=000005)," she said quietly. "After all, the rooms upstairs also need to be cleaned, and the back of the mantelpiece could use a good dusting."

She looked into the fire, suddenly feeling a little sleepy. "You know," she remarked, in a sudden, confidential voice, "we know all about the inn already. Let's hear about all of you. Why else do we gather here?"

[Susan Delgado]

After the debacle with the Wargs, Susan had tried to go outside for some fresh air, only to find the door barred and the windows shuttered. She'd ended up standing unnoticed in a shadowy corner, but after a while she grew tired and desired to sit. She emerged from her hiding spot in time to hear the end of Belin's speech. hmm. She sauntered over to the table where Belin was still watching that nickety Elf, Celeb...something, and sat down. Belin looked around, but didn't seem too surprised. They were sometime acquaintences and often ended up in odd places together. She nodded a greeting.

Susan nodded back. "I heard you asking for stories. Well, I have one I heard from some Elves in Gondor who got it from some traders in Harad when they went there sometime in the past. It's called "The Hunter's Bow"." She paused and frowned, reconsidering. "Actually, never mind. It's too long."

Belin looked annoyed, as she usually seemed to when Susan spoke to her. "Too long? What's too long? Just tell it already."

Susan shook her head and took a driink of her mead. "No, I thought about it. It would take hours. Here, though," she leaned closer to the Shirrif, "You want to hear a joke?"

[piosenniel]

She had come up the Great West road from Gondor to Isengard, passing through the green waves of tall grass which once Men called Calenardhon, and was now known as Rohan. Of all the areas in these inner lands of Middle-earth, this was the one she loved the best, for it most reminded her of her belovéd sea.

Long a friend of the Eorlingas, she had sought out her old companion, Garulf, as she passd through the Riddermark, and he had lent her a horse to bear her on her way to Eriador. Rochfalmar, she was called, for her coat shimmered like a cresting wave shot with the sun’s light while the deep greys of the sea rolled beneath it. And now she cleaved the rolling, long green grasses like a great ship passing through the waves.

To Isengard and up the South road to Tharbad, now fallen since that fell winter when came the White Wolves of the Forodwaith to harry the Shire. Across the River Gwathló, and up the Greenway to Bree, and a pleasant night spent at the Prancing Pony. For it was there she heard of the Wargs and Wolves who now harried the sheep in Bree-land, and she dared not travel The Great East road at night, alone.

A fair day’s ride then to Frogmorton and then on down the road to Bywater. It was here that she was to meet an old friend. There was information to be exchanged, and plans to be made before the crew of The Lonely Star could sail south on their next journey. Somewhere, among the long neglected mathoms of a certain hobbit family, lay a key to their southern riddle.

Dismounting from ‘Falmar, she led her to the stable area and handed the reins to the boy there, instructing him to wipe her down thoroughly and then give her feed and water. He nodded his head at the Elf, and she flipped him a silver penny. He watched, grinning, as it turned end over shiny end in the air and landed in his palm.

Pio strode to the door of the Inn. It was locked, and she banged the pommel of her knife against its thickness. A serving wench opened it, and looked her over saucily, smiling then as Pio winked at her and slipped her a penny. The Elf stepped through the door, stopping just as she entered to let her eyes adjust to the dim interior. She was dressed in a dark grey tunic, unlaced at the throat, and a pair of black leggings tucked into high boots of dark, supple leather. A brown leather baldric held four knives on its crosspiece – two short for throwing and two longer for close in fighting, and on her left hip it held her blade in a plain, brown leather scabbard. Two throwing knives were hidden in her boot tops, one nestled against each leg. A sheathed dagger was secured hilt down to each forearm and hidden beneath the sleeves of her tunic. Over it all she wore a travel stained cloak secured with a tarnished silver clasp, the six-pointed star of Eärendil, a clear, faceted stone at its center. The cloak’s hood was thrown back, revealing shoulder length hair as black as night, framing a fair face set with keen grey eyes, which even now searched the room.

The face she sought was not here. Thirsty, she approached the bar, and ordered a pint of stout. Making her way to an empty booth to the side of the common room, she sat down her back to the wall, and watched the ebb and flow of the patrons.

[the real findorfin]

“So, my old friend, what have you been doing?” Fin asked Don.
“Many things my friend, but lately I have been staying at our Kings court, Thranduil has not changed in generosity.”
A swift pained look crossed Fin’s face but it was gone so fast, that only Celeb managed to see it. “I wonder what that was about?” she thought, listening to the two great friends chatter away.
“Have you won the princess Mithrilae’s heart yet, Don?”
“Not yet, but it will be mine.2 Both elves laughed at this seemingly well known topic.
“What is this then,” Celeb asked.
“Thranduil’s daughter, the princess Mithrilae won Don’s heart many years ago,” Fin explained.
“Unfortunately, I am no closer than I ever was to winning her’s back,” Don sighed in mock misery.
“Oh dear,” Celeb fell sorry for her new acquaintance. “Well at least I’ve found someone,” she thought happily, leaning onto Fin’s arm.
A surprised smile crept onto Don’s face and he smiled knowingly at Fin, “I see you have found yourself someone though.”
Fin shrugged, “what can I say1”
“Alas, for now I am alone in my hunt for a lifemate!” Don clasped his face in his hands and assumed and expression of the upmost terror.
“Don’t worry,” Fin said, “I’m sure there’s an elf maiden around here for you. There are many beautiful ones about.”
Celeb’s body tensed slightly at Fin’s statement, but relaxed as he whispered, “though I have already caught the most beautiful.”
Donlammenion turned and surveyed the room, “Fin was right,” he thought, 2there are a lot of lovely elves in here!”

[Celebmornie]

Celeb looks around hunting for Kimmy.
"Hold on a minute!"
She runs of to the table.
"Hey Kimmy! I have a question! Were you kidding when you said that you found the perfect man?"
Kimmy looks shocked. "How did you know that I was kidding! I can lie to my mom and she dosent suspect a thing!"
Celeb laughs, "I pay attention! You have been checking out all of the elfs in here! Oh and you can quit looking at Fin! He is mine!" She smiles. "Would you care to join us? I'll introduce you to one of Fins friends!"
Kimmy looks thoughtful. "Sure!"
The two women walk back over to the table and Celeb smiles. "This is Kimmy one of my best friends in the world! Kimy this is Don!" She sits down next to Fin and smiles. "Now for that story I hope you dont mind I have a poem that is better!" Looks thoughtful "Ok! Heres my try!"


"Ned i ethuil uin idhrinn,
Ir i galadh rîn ah laiss,
Ned doron a lith,
I brethil, lalf a eregdos,
Centhagh i gwaith o Mirkwood, tond a bain.

Ir i thoronath cannar an i celebren ithil,
Ned i lhûn morchaint uin môr.
Hwind morchaint thiathar,
Ir i gwaith o Mirkwood linnar,
Ir linnar na i gail uin naur.

Man padatha ah nin,
Man padatha, an sen gwathren eyrn,
Tiri i hwind morchaint ennas?
Egor deri thurin ned i gelaidh a linna,
Ned i ethuil uin idhrinn?

I glîr uin i aewen si pathrar i taur,
A i rhû o gannel.
Lamath bain lastathar,
I lamath uin gwaith o Mirkwood.
Gelir tîn lamath a tîn edhellen pâd."

"I think you might want it in a toung that you can understand!" Celeb says looking around.

"In the spring of the year,
When the trees are crowned with leaves,
In the Oak and Ash,
The Birch, Elm and Holly,
You will see Mirkwood’s people tall and fair.

When the eagles call to the silver moon,
In the blue shadows of the night.
Twirling shadows will appear,
When Mirkwood’s people sing.
When they sing by the light of the fire.

Who will walk with me,
Who will walk to this shadowy wood,
To watch the twirling shadows there?
Or stay hidden in the trees and sing,
In the spring of the year?

The song of the birds now fills the forest,
And the sound of a harp.
Voices fair will be heard,
The voices of Mirkwood’s people.
Merry are their voices and their elvish ways."

Celeb sits down. "Will that do? I herd it from a travaler I met on the trip here!"

[ December 07, 2002: Message edited by: Celebmornie ]

[piosenniel]

A lovely poem. thought Pio to herself.

She leaned forward from her seat and caught the eye of a passing server. Another glint of silver, and a whispered request. Then the server turned and eyed the four Elves sitting across room, chatting merrily, unaware they were being observed.

Pio watched as the girl set the chilled, Dorwinion wine on the rough surface of the table before the Elves, and offered to fill the cups she had brought with it. One of the males stayed her hand, drawing her near with a soft, low pitched voice, as he asked a question.

She turned slightly, and pointed across the room. Four sets of eyes turned toward the Elf sitting at ease watching them. A smile creased the corners of her lips, as she raised her tankard to them with a nod of her head.

'It's from her, sir.' said the server. 'She liked the poem.'

[Donlammenion]

''Well my friend and my lady i must up to find a place to stay this night i wish you both a good night and will catch up with you sooner rather than later fin''
Don steps up from the table a crosses the floor toward the door but turns with a grin which could only be described as wolf like then takes a low bow to his friend and the lovely young elf maiden sat besides him and bids a final good night.

[Kimmy Baggins]

Kimmy watches Don go and pouts.
"But I actually liked him!" Celeb laughs and gets up. "Be right back."
She walks over to pio. Kimmy looks at her retreating back and smiles at Fin.
"So do you really like her or are you just looking for someone to be with tonight?"
Fin looks mad, "I really like her and I dont believe that is is your place to be aking me that!"
Kimmy laughs and takes another sip of her ale. "I wonder what they are talking about?"

[the real findorfin]

Moments later, Don reemerges and runs outside. Kimmy smile fades. Fin is bemused, wondering where Don has gone but follows outside.

Under the nearby Oak tree, Don is busy pitching a tent. "What are you doing," Fin exclaimed.
Don turns, "no money." He turns back round and continues to drive the stakes into the moist ground.
“I’m sure Kimmy wouldn’t mind helping you out,” Fin exclaimed.
“Umm..I wouldn’t want her to get wet.”
Fin dragged his friend away from the tent and back inside.
“ I know, how about we re-enact the Battle of Esgalor and Marzhgak.” Don nodded his agreement and they both move into the centre of the room, drawing swords as they go.
“I am Esgalor, Orc-Bane of Mirkwood,” Fin began in a high voice.
“Me Marzhgak!” Don replied in a deep gruff voice.
The two friends started to fight and a crowd gathered as the two lunged and parried. But eventually, Fin fell and Marzhgak lunged, driving the sword deep into the floorboards underneath Fin’s arm.
“Ah, I’m wounded to the death!” Fin cried and with his dying breath stabbed Don in the chest with his knife. Don fell over and they both lay still for a second, before the clapping began.
“Surely worth a free nights board,” one hobbit cried.
“Nay, two at least,2 another cried.
Owever, Dwarin didn’t see it that way and minutes later, both Fin and Don were in the kitchen washing dishes.
“I don’t see why you had to drive your sword so far into the floor,” Fin grumbled.
“I didn’t know the dwarf would be so grumpy,” Don replied.

[Kiara]

Parin had taken to her duties with a vivacious energy that reflected well upon her character and brought a handsome color to her face. Dwarin nodded with grim satisfaction at the sight, and asked her to make a round of the room to make sure his patrons were at their ease and equipped with their favored beverage.

She strode across the room and with purpose, an easy grace governing her movements (where usually she was clumsy and hesitant) in her mission of hospitality. But as she passed by the newcommer of the raven hair and keen glance, Parin stopped short as the sharp eye caught her own. The she-dwarf's deep brown eyes widened at the realization that the woman, whose travel-stained exterior and starry brooch spoke of volumes of experience, was beckoning her.

"A bottle of chilled wine, Dorwinian, if you can discover it's hiding place, for the elven quartet, if you please, my lass," the lady entoned in a rich voice.

Parin looked over her shoulder at gathered elven folk and set off at once with a "Yes, milady," croaked back to the woman who had made the request. Why do I always loose my composure when there are adventurers about? They are exactly the kind of people I need to aid me...

She tripped back into the room, with the sought-after wine (Dwarin's stores were really rather good, she hadn't had to look long) hands trembling with the bottle and cups she quakingly set before the elves, aware all the while of the scrutiny of the mysterious traveller. Nearly knocking over the cups she filled, Parin served the chilled wine.

One of the males stayed her hand, drawing her near with a soft, low pitched voice, as he asked a question.

She turned slightly, and pointed across the room. Four sets of eyes turned toward the Elf sitting at ease watching them. A smile creased the corners of her lips, as she raised her tankard to them with a nod of her head.

'It's from her, sir.' said the server. 'She liked the poem.'



Parin half ran back into the kitchen to avoid the hauntingly grey eyes of the woman when she had finished with the elves.

"What are you doing here?" Dwarin reproached her. "The company needs serving!"

Parin mouthed a response as the dark-haired lady moved to the bar.

"Alright, I've got it," he growled into her silence.

[ December 07, 2002: Message edited by: Kiara ]

[piosenniel]

Her tankard was dry. No server in site. 'Ah, well!' she said to herself, as she stood up, stretching her road weary muscles, 'You've come this far, you can make it to the bar and back!' She threw her cloak across the table to keep her place, and ambled to where the Innkeeper was pouring ale from the tapped oaken barrel.

'Another one, if you please, good Sir.'

He obliged her, and she turned to go back to her table. An interesting Hobbit and his even more interesting companion caught her eye. She turned back to the Innkeeper and pointed him out. 'Tell me his name, please.' she requested. 'And one more pint of whatever he favors, if you please.'

Approaching the Hobbit's table, she sat the tankard before him. 'Elfred, is it not? A pint for a thirsty shepherd.' she said. A low 'woof' issued from beneath the table, and she bent down to give the dog a chance to take in her scent and her intent. Satisfied, he allowed her to give him a scratch between the ears.

'Handsome, you are!' she crooned to him as she held one hand beneath his grizzled muzzle and caressed his silken ears with the other. His keen eyes met hers and it seemed as if he smiled.

[ December 07, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Gorothlammothiel]

"Greetings, Amron" Soronûmë replied, "I am Soronûmë". Amron sat down. "A drink Amron?" Soronûmë asked as he gestured to Dwarin at the counter. He noticed that Amron looked uneasy, "You are not fond of strangers, no?" Soronûmë questionned. "It is not so that I am not found of them but I am unsure of them". "As I see, you have not let that sword from your grasp since you sat" Soronûmë said with a smile. Amron smiled and raised his hand to the table as Dwarin brought over his drink. "Well I see you do not travel without weapon yourself Soronûmë, that quiver behind your back would be well hidden if it were not for the bow over your shoulder". "No" replied Soronûmë, "I do not think it wise to travel without such. Your sword though, it catches the eye. Is there not a story to tell there Amron?" he questionned.

[anson chubb]

With a content, little "mm", Chubb continues on his way to get a new loaf of bread and a refill of ale.

[Belin]

Belin's usual scowl (Susan was quite wrong in taking it personally; she scowled constantly and indiscriminately at all) lifted at the Elf's lovely song. She applauded heartily.

"Good!" she exclaimed, drawing everyone's surprise, "Good." She beamed disconcertingly at the Elf. "Finally, there are more songs! Yes, this Inn has far greater purposes than the drinking of beer and the arrangement of romances! In fact," and she settled back into her chair, with the hint of a frown coming over her face again, and an eyebrow raised in the direction of Kimmy and her friends, "In fact, carrying on romances entertains me not at all, at least, not by itself. In fact, by itself I won't stand for it; it reminds me much too much of Rule Six. Instead, if you are the old friends you seem to be, tell us your past or tell us your plans. How did you meet? Where are you going? And Celebmornie," she added suddenly, "Who is this traveler? I may have met her. A human woman, I think, with red hair and sad eyes. How is she? Her troubles have been in my mind often of late."

Celebmornie stared in astonishment, while Susan's offer of a joke hung in the air. Belin glanced at the would-be jokester, grinned in approval, and suddenly with her quick glance caught the listening Chubb, who was wandering back to his seat with his ale. "And you!" she said, "You've been quiet all night."

[ December 08, 2002: Message edited by: Belin ]

[Birdland]

Elfred's eyes went wide when the beautiful Elven lady approached him and set the ale on the table. Though a friendly gesture, it somehow seemed unsuitable; as if Elbereth herself had decided to put on an apron and take up the life of a serving maid.

But no matter how astonished, the old shepherd never forgot his good manners. Standing up and bowing low before Piosennial, he declared "Elfred Thistle, at your service, Fair Lady, and may a star shine on the hour of our meeting."

Nop had stood up and was smiling up at the Elf, and he turned his head to cast a laughing look at his master, never having heard such high-faluting speech come from him before. Elfred noticed with embarrassment that Nop had a cockleburr tangled in the fur behind his ear. He hoped that the dog would not offer his paw to the Lady, else she might see how muddy it was.

Mae govannen Master Thistle." The tall Elf-woman smiled and gestured towards the rough table. "Might I be allowed to join you?"

She may as well have said "Might I be allowed to sprout wings and fly around the room?" Elfred's jaw dropped open in even greater astonishment, and his face turned even redder than before.

But once again remembering his upbringing, he scurried around the table and pulled out the battered oaken chair, first dusting off any crumbs with his hat. Then with a strangely courtly gesture, he bade Piosennial to be seated.

[Finiel]

Sarah laughed at what Belin had said. It was quite true that some people in the inn were quite in the mood for love or something.

"You just hit the bull's eye!" Sarah called to Belin, "But I think this inn needs more than storytelling. I propose a dance!" then Sarah pulled an old violin from her bag and climbed on top of the table so everybody could see her ( she had quite enough of iced to tea to remember her mother's teachings that standing on a table was not right).
"I'm not much of a singer and songwriter so much of this song came from Mr. Bombadil. And wether you dance or not, a little fast-paced music would not kill anyone.

Hey! Come derry dol! Hop along, my hearties!
Hobbits, dwarves, elves, men and all! We are fond of parties.
Now let the fun begin! Let us dance together!
Let the music start! Find a partner and dance together!
Of sun, stars, moon and mist, rain and cloudy weather,
Light on the budding leaf, dew on the feather,
Wind on the open hill, bells on the heather, Reeds by the shady pool, lilies on the water:
Old Mister Thunderhammer why don't we dance together!"

Then Sarah jumped off the table and played the violin while hopping round and round Mr. Dwarin.
"Shoo silly girl! If I knew iced tea would have any effect on you I would have given you water. Now get away before you crashed into these mugs of ale I'm serving." the grumpy dwarf said. Then Sarah stopped playing the violin and bowed.
"You are such a sweet dwarf even when you're grumpy." Sarah said as she blew a kiss to the innkeeper. He reminds me of my ol' uncle, she thought. smilies/biggrin.gif

[Susan Delgado]

Susan grinned back at Belin. "So, how about that joke?"

Belin sat back and waved one hand forward in a "go ahead" gesture, then folded her arms across her chest.

Susan nodded. "All right, then, how many Lakemen does it take to kill a dragon?"

Belin seemed faintly surprised. "How many?"

"Thirteen. Twelve to hold the net and one to stand behind the net shouting draconic pickup lines." Her giggles were soon broken off, however, by the disapproval she saw on the Shirrif's face. Well, at least it was amused disapproval...

[Donlammenion]

Minutes later, with shrivelled hands and sombre faces, Don and Fin emerged from the kitchen.
“Well at least it was worth it,” Fin mumbled.
“Yeh, suppose so,” Don replied.
“Don’t get your hopes up,” Celeb and Kimmy had been waiting and as soon as the kitchen door had opened, had leapt up and moved towards them.
“Why, didn’t anyone like our re-enactment?” Fin asked.
“We did of course, but no one else seemed to too.”
“But the clapping?”
“Polite?” Kimmy hazarded a guess.
“That’s just great,” Fin exclaimed, “people have asked me to do things since I got here and the two things I do, no one comments on! What’s the point!”
His friends comforted him but he sat, annoyed, “what’s the point, told off when you do, told off when you don’t!”

[piosenniel]

Pio smiled warmly at Elfred as he pulled out the chair for her and bade her sit down. ‘Thank you for your gracious courtesy, Master Thistle. It is often a rare thing these shadowed days to find such a one as yourself. Someone who is still a true gentleman.’ She placed her hand on Elfred’s arm and looked directly at him as she spoke, telling him also that she was called Piosenniel, but that he might call her Pio, if he so wished. He stood, gazing at her, a starry-eyed look in his eyes. She smiled encouragingly at him and increased the pressure on his arm to draw his attention, bidding him sit down in the chair opposite her.

She felt a small pressure on the toe of her boot, and looked down to find Nop standing politely beneath the table, his paw on her foot. She laughed, delightedly, a refreshing, pure sound like clear water bubbling up from a hidden spring. Her hand went down to ruffle the hair behind his ears. ‘Yes, good Nop, you, too, are a gentleman in your own right. Please sit, also.’ Her slender fingers found the cocklebur, and gently worked it loose. ‘Can’t have such a handsome one getting all knotted up from this.’ Nop settled comfortably down on the floor, his chin resting across her right boot.

An awkward silence ensued, at least on the part of Elfred. She furrowed her brow, thinking how she might proceed. ‘Best just to jump in, as usual.’ she thought to herself. Leaning across the table, her voice lowered so that only he might hear her, she began.

‘I was looking to find someone here at the Green Dragon who might help me in some research I am doing on the family of a very old friend of mine. I was to meet someone here today, but I fear they must have been delayed, and I cannot wait to see when they might come.’ Her eyes searched his face, finding no trace of guile. His mind betrayed no hint of shadow. ‘Perhaps I could prevail upon your long memory to help me, if you will.’

Pio took a sip of her ale, watching his face closely. ‘The name I was hoping that would stir someone’s memory is that of Cami, or rather I should say, Camellia Goodchild. Though sometimes she may have been known affectionately as Mistress Nitir.’

Her eyes darkened as she spoke this name, as if the sun were suddenly clouded over, and her face took on a look of great sadness. She looked away from him, toward the low flames dancing in the fireplace. And for just a moment, tears threatened at the corners of her eyes as she recalled memories of a time now long passed . . .

[ December 08, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[the witch king]

"If swords could talk eh?" he said with a slight grin, "mine would have nothing to say for such a nice little inn to hear, i will take you up on that ale" he smiled openly at Soronume "come sit with me, tell me of your self first, where are you from friend"

[The Barrow-Wight]

The Barrow-Wight set down his still half-full glass of beer and stood quickly, pushing his chair back and stepping out into the aisle between tables. The Inn was so crowded that he had to forcibly move some standing people out of his way as he walked directly toward his apparently unsuspecting target. Amron started violently as he was grabbed on his left shoulder and spun around to face his elder.

“Young man, you have obviously failed to grasp the basic ideals we strive for in the Dragon. Haven’t you?”

Amron looked at him with an open-mouthed stare.

“Here in the Green Dragon,” the Barrow-Wight continued, pulling poor Amron towards the kitchen, “the idea is not to converse with the other guests, but to graphically describe yourself, your actions, and your surroundings. Kind of like a book. We don’t ask that you be a professional author, nor do we insist on gads of flowery prose, but we do insist that our friends gathered here put a bit more effort into their utterings than you have.”

Celebmornie watched with a knowing grin as she watched the Barrow-Wight pull the helpless man toward the stack of dirty dishes in the back room. She obviously remember the lessons that scullery had taught her. She suddenly felt insecure as he turned to her with a menacing glance. I’ll have to remember to talk to her about that dirty fork I was given just after she finished her chores. he thought.

He deposited Amron before a sink filled with warm, soapy water and surrounded by tall towers of dirty plates, pots and pans.

“The eating never stops at the Dragon,” he said, “and neither does the scrubbing. Start washing, and don’t stop until you have absorbed my meaning.”

[the real findorfin]

Fin grimaced as Amron was bodily flung into the kitchen by the Barrow-Wight. Both Donlammenion and Celeb looked away as well, all knowing how awful dishwashing could be.
“Unlucky,” Fin murmured, as the Barrow-Wight emerged alone.
“Cheep for Dwarin though,” Celeb smirked.
The dwarf innkeeper was busy examining the crack in the floorboards, where Don had ‘killed’ Esgalor earlier. “The cheek of it,” he murmured and rose from his knees.
The table where the quartet of elves was sat burst into laughter, but was silenced with a menacing stare from Dwarin and as his eyes strayed toward the kitchen door, they all turned away, suddenly interested in the beams of the roof above.
“That’s better,” he muttered and moved on.
As soon as he was out of hearing distance they burst out laughing again.
“I’m glad I stopped at the Green Dragon,” Fin commented, “where else would you get so many unusal elves, a dwarven innkeeper, an Umbar doing the dishes and a Barrow Wight in the corner.”
Fresh peels of laughter greeted this statement.

[Gorothlammothiel]

Soronûmë was alone at his table once more as Amron had been taken off to the kitchen. He watched as the Barrow Wight took his seat again and picked up his drink, still watching the kitchen door. He guessed that is what the young girl had meant earlier when she left the kitchen, some sort of punishment. Dwarin entered the kitchen and Soronûmë heard laughter from another corner in the inn. Following the sounds he noticed a group of four elves laughing away, clearly having fun.
Soronûmë then noticed a young maiden, who he had heard being called Sarah, dancing with a violin on her shoulder. She was playing a familiar tune. Soronûmë looked down to the empty cup in his hand. He was no dancer but Soronûmë could certainly sing a tale or two. He rose and began to walk over to the maiden, quietly singing to himself as he went.
He sang a tale he had heard many years ago, one a good friend of his had written. As Soronûmë sang he could see and hear his friend's voice in his mind, and without realising, his own voice had grown louder as he sang in unison with the distant voice of an age old friend. Suddenly consious of what he was doing Soronûmë stopped singing, and saw that the maiden had stopped playing her violin some time ago. Her eyes were fixed on him. "What language was that?" she asked. "I couldn't understand the words but I am sure they are full of meaning. It is a beautiful song, Sir." Soronûmë was surprised, "I am sorry m'lady. I did not mean to stop your playing with my verse." She smiled as he continued, "it is the language of my homeland though the tale is not mine. Your music awakened a memory of a friend who used to sing that song, far better than I ever could." Soronûmë noticed that there were more than the maiden's eyes looking upon him now.

[Eruwen]

Eruwen stopped outside the inn when she heard a lovely tune suddenly rise above the noise of the crowd. Being a lover of music and poetry herself, she decided to drop on in.

Noticing that most of the attention of the inn was fixed on a certain Elf in the corner, Eruwen slid silently to an empty table. She sat gazing at the wonderful sound before her ears. It had been long since she had heard a song like that. Ever since she left her home in Mirkwood, that is.

Eruwen sat silently and motionless as the other Elf finished his song. Her long, dark hair was tossed by a small breezed coming in through an open window behind her. Oh, how much she wished she were back in her homeland. Just listening to the brief voice of this stranger reminded her of the long, warm nights she would sit in the treetops and listen to the music of the wind.

But then Eruwen's mind suddenly switched to the night she left. The loneliest night of her life. As a tear started to fall down her cheek, she forced her concentration back to the crowd in the inn.

[VanimaEdhel]

Menelduliniel and Estelarion made their way to their rooms. They threw their heavy packs on the floor and winced at the resounding "crack" that they made on the floor.

"You did not have anything delicate in there, right?" Menelduliniel asked.

"I do not believe so. You?" Estelarion said.

"I certainly hope not," Menelduliniel muttered.

They both went back down to the bar and ordered more ale for themselves and sat back, people-watching (one of their favorite activities).

[Birdland]

"The name I was hoping that would stir someone's memory is that of Cami, or rather I should say, Camellia Goodchild."

Elfred saw the look of sadness come over the face of the beautiful Miss Piosennial, and wondered that one of the Fair Folk would have any memory of one of his kind: happy, sad, or anything else.

And yet there was no doubt: with a name like that, she had to be speaking of a Hobbit. The genealogy of the Shire Folk were full of Goodchildes, but the family itself had died out long ago. And yet that particular name did stir some type of memory in Elfred...where had he heard such a name?

Then his heart sank, and his face became as long as that of the Elf sitting across from him. He did know someone who might have help this sad stranger, but the thought of seeking her out made Elfred shudder. He had hoped to pass through Bywater unseen without having any dealings with this particular person. But the old shepherd had to face it: he would have to meet "the dragon" after all.

"Well, Miss Piosennial. Perhaps I do know someone who may have some information for you, though I doubt her memory could be anywhere near as long as yours, begging your pardon."

"I remember my mother-in-law mentioning a name like that at family gatherings, when the talk would turn to tales about the old days, so to speak." The Elf-lady's eyes glowed with hope at this, and she leaned forward into her chair.

"Now I don't want to get your hope up too much, Lady. You see, I married a Bolger. Now that might not mean much to the likes of you, but around here it means plenty. My mother-in-law, Amarantha Bolger, never took much to the idea of her youngest daughter Celandine running off and marrying one of those 'outlandish' Bree-folk, meaning me of course, and a shepherd to boot."

"Now since my dear Celi had passed on, I haven't had much to do with the ol drag...I mean, the old lady, and she may not want to come and speak to you, but there's one thing we can count on: old Amarantha may be as mean as a cross dog, but she is also as curious as a jackdaw. I'm betting that the chance to meet with one of your kind might just pique her interest enough to get her away from her cozy fire and over here to the Green Dragon. That and the fact that she never turned down a good glass of wine if she had the chance, not if someone else is buying."

"Now if you can just wait here, I'll trot over to her hole and see what I can do. Oh," said Elfred, wringing his hat in embarrassment, "would you mind if I left old Nop here with you? Amarantha never cared much for animals in general, and Nop in particular. It might make it a little easier if she didn't see him on her doorstep, if you take my meaning."

"Of course, Master Thistle. Nop will be fine here with me, and good company." said the Elf with a smile. And indeed, the little collie seemed quite happy to lay where he was, head resting quietly on the soft, worn riding boot, (and drinking in the good smell of Elf, which is like no other smell in Middle-earth, and is loved by all good beasts.)

So with a nod and a touch to his forehead, Elfred went out into the night to face down his mother-in-law. Piosennial sat by the fire, searching the memories of ages and idly stroking the head of the sheepdog.

[ December 08, 2002: Message edited by: Birdland ]

[Gorothlammothiel]

Soronûmë turned to see the table he left was now occupied by an elf-maiden, one who looked deep in thought. The maiden with the violin gestured to Soronûmë and said "There is no need to be sorry Sir," she smiled, "music needs a voice to do it justice. How about another song?" "I fear m'lady that there are many who do not wish to hear more of my verse." "Nonsense" she replied as she put her instrument into position and began to play a beautiful tune. Dwarin turned to Soronûmë and Sarah, "She will not stop until she is satisfied Sir. A little too much to drink I believe. It would be a waste of her playing and of our ears for you not to sing" he chuckled. "Then I shall sing" replied Soronûmë, "but a verse of melancholy, to suit the fair elf-maiden's, over there, mood." Soronûmë turned to the room and began...

"Walking paths seldom trodden
Wandering forests unknown by man,
Telling tales of myths forgotten
Strength in both mind and hand.

Living a life of solitude
Travelling by the day and dark,
A bright light shone from within
But lonely forever in his heart.

Cursed not with weary feet
Only with a lasting hope,
Navigating by the stars
His intuition led him home."

[piosenniel]

‘The old dragon, eh?!’ she said to Nop, filling in the rest of the edited word. The dog lifted his head and snorted as if to emphasize the truth of his master’s description. ‘Well, I have had some dealings of old with such Wyrms. Perhaps those encounters will stand me in good stead.’ She chuckled to herself, recalling a particular dragon with a sharp tongue and a wicked sense of humor. Nop patted her boot and gave a low-pitched growl. ‘That tough a one, eh, my friend?!’ Her eyes sparkled in anticipation of the encounter. ‘We shall see.’

Strains of a fair song filled the air briefly. The notes flowing from the violin like a sudden breeze, the singer's voice riding the twists and turns of it like an Eagle of Westernesse soaring high above the western lip of Meneltarma. She nodded toward the pair as the song finished.

Thank you. her mind called out, as she smiled.

Looking round the room, she spied the server she had spoken with before – a pretty Dwarf, her long, shiny yellow braids catching the lights of the fire and lamps as she bustled efficiently about the tables. When she drew near, a tray of empty tankards, bowls, and dirty cutlery deftly balanced on one hand, Pio motioned her over.

‘When you have done with delivering that tray, might this good dog and I have something to tide us over until Master Thistle returns? Some fruit and bread for me, if you will, and a small glass of wine – red.’ She looked down at Nop as if consulting with him. ‘And a small dish of fresh scraps for the tired worker, and a bowl of water.’

Grey eyes looked steadily into the deep brown eyes of the Dwarf, wondering how such a one as she found herself working in an Inn. She laughed as she thought of it, recalling some of the ‘jobs’ which had seen her through hard times. The woman had nodded her head at Pio’s request and turned to go to the kitchen. ‘Wait!’ called the Elf. ‘I have been rude, I think. I am a stranger here, and you have been most courteous to me.’ She extended her hand to the Dwarf’s free one.

‘My name is Piosenniel, or Pio, if you prefer. And yours is . . .?’

[ December 08, 2002: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

[Eruwen]

Eruwen looked at the Elf once more. She noticed a glance and sat listening for more song. The verse he sang was very soothing to her ears. She nodded at the Elf to show she knew what he had done and was glad for his kindness. "What a lovely place this is." she thought.

A great thirst came over her, so Eruwen walked over to the bar to get an Ale. She drank a little on her way back to the table. The drink quenched her thirst almost as good as what she had back home.

"Yes, I believe I will stay here a short while longer." she thought. "This inn is very comforting from a long road's journey." Eruwen had a smile once again. It had been quite a long time since one graced her face.

[Gorothlammothiel]

Soronûmë finished his song and noticed he had made the elf-maiden smile. He thanked Sarah for the music and made way to the bar. Dwarin approached,"Thank you sir, you have contented Sarah with her music, and pleased the lonely elf over there." "Yes," Soronûmë agreed, "she seems to have wiped those tears away from her face now." He glanced over to the elf-maiden who caught his stare then looked away. "Dwarin, may I have a room for tonight?" Soronûmë asked the dwarf. "Indeed sir, I believe I have one unoccupied." "Thank you," replied Soronûmë, "and in the present, may I have a drink, just water this time?" "Certainly Sir." Dwarin went to fetch the drink, when he returned Soronûmë thanked and paid him. He then picked up his glass and made way to the table where the elf-maiden sat. "Suliad" he greeted, "may I join you?" She nodded so Soronûmë took seat. "I am Soronûmë, a stranger to these parts also. It is long since I have been home, my journey takes me all over the lands. Have you travelled far?" The elf replied "yes, my journey has been long. I am Eruwen of Mirkwood. Mar govannen." "Ah Mirkwood" he replied "I have both fond and troubled memories of those parts." She smiled at him. "So Eruwen, why did an elf-maiden leave her home to travel to the Shire?" Soronûmë questionned as he took a sip of his water.

[Celebmornie]

Celeb looks around. "I think I'll tell another tale!"
She stands up and begins in a loud voice.

"Ennas lamath a ôl,
Ennas i glemyr ned meneg rych.
Ennas noer a lalaith,
Ennas i glîn ned meneg aew.

Norig lim mellonn, norig lim trî i môr.
Norig lim mellon, ennas cenithag i aur calad.

Ned i morchaint uin dúath.
Ned i laiss uin dínen gelaidh.
Tírar, linnar.
Pedir o cuil tîn pâd.

Norig lim mellonn, norig lim trî i môr.
Norig lim mellon, ennas cenithag i aur calad.

Talt elenath erin i lossen.
Hwiniar palan-an i gaearon.
Norel or i talath, ú-gostaig tîn alfirin cam.
Toga eg erin an ôlg.

Norig lim mellonn, norig lim trî i môr.
Norig lim mellon, ennas cenithag i aur calad.

Tolithan ah eg ir norig,
An ias i glan o lû anoroded.
Ned an i thambas uin taur,
O iaur laim si ú-linnin.

Norig lim mellonn, norig lim trî i môr.
Norig lim mellon, ennas cenithag i aur calad.

Tiro an dengwithg, linno glîrg.
Tiro an i thynd o iaur noss galadh.
Norithan, linnathan.
Norithan lim an ias ithil govadithan i gaearon.

Norig lim mellonn, norig lim trî i môr.
Norig lim mellon, ennas cenithag i aur calad."
She sits down agan and smiles.