The Green Dragon - Part 2 [Archive] - The Barrow-Downs Discussion Forum

Child of the 7th Age

01-13-2003, 02:24 PM

Cami was relieved to see Laurie's horse come galloping back towards the Inn. It had been a goodly number of hours since she had left, and the hobbit was beginning to worry that she might have experienced some mishap on the road.

She knew Laurie was a newcomer to the Shire. Perhaps, she'd managed to go the wrong direction or get lost on one of the many shortcuts, backlanes and pathways that sliced across the fields and even through some of the farms.

But when Laurie stopped her horse at the front of the Dragon, she looked quite healthy, and appeared none the worse for her trip. The girl threw down her reins and bolted off the horse, giving him a gentle pat on the nose.

"A letter, Miss Cami, a letter from Bag-end. From Bilbo." She shouted triumphantly, waving the note in the air.

Cami quickly snatched the message out of the girl's hand, and went over to look at it privately. She hurriedly read it, then smiled back at Laurie. "Good news! Bilbo wishes to bring everyone here for dinner. And thank goodness, that will be tomorrow night." So, all she had to do was to plan and cook a dinner for 17 hungry hobbits! That would be Bilbo and Frodo, Samwise and his wife Rose, along with all 13 of their young brood.

Cami searched her mind to find some credible explanation for Pio as to this little change of plans..... She decided to keep a close eye on the Elf for the next few hours and see when she appeared to be in a charitable mood. Before Laurie left, she tugged the girl over and whispered in her ear.

"Wait an hour or so. Then let folk know we'll be having a little party tomorrow night with Frodo and Bilbo and Samwise as guests of honor."

[ January 13, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

piosenniel

01-13-2003, 02:31 PM

Nárello woke just as the sun was peeking through the break in the curtains. Pio was already up and out to see about breakfast. Some warm, grainy bread for herself with fruit and a cup of tea.

She brought a plate of eggs and ham and toast spread thick with honey to him, and a tall glass of fresh cider. He sat on the couch, yawning widely, as she entered. ‘I’ll leave this for you.’ she said, smiling at him. ‘There is warm water in the pitcher by the basin. Wash up if you like, and eat your breakfast. Then come out to the Common Room. We can talk about you helping out in the stables or in the kitchen, if you will.’

Pio picked up her quill, a bottle of black ink, and a fresh sheet of paper, and went out to sit at the bar. One of the others could take care of business for a while. She was going to send a reply to Mithadan.

[ January 13, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Lumiel

01-13-2003, 02:49 PM

*A young elven-girl slipped in through the door of the Green Dragon quietly. She had long brown hair that was flecked with gold in the sunlight and a light, fair face. Her eyes were strange, seeming to shift from green to blue as she looked around the Green Dragon. She quietly shut the door behind her, her dark grey cloak swishing softly against her dark green outfit. She pivoted around on her knee-high, dark brown, mud-caked boots and saw a woman. She politely spoke*

"Hello, I was wondering if I would be able to get some breakfast here..."

*She let her sentence trail off and fiddled with her hands shyly, waiting for a response.*

Carrûn

01-13-2003, 02:49 PM

Nárello stirred and looked about him. He was lying on a couch with a cloak spread over him. I must have fallen asleep, he guessed. The sun was beginning to climb and he rolled over to notice the Innkeeper enter the room with a tray of breakfast. His eyes were a bit too blurry for him to make out it's contents but it smelled good and he didn't have to kill and cook it himself for a change. Or steal it. I don't steal, he protested to himself. I just find things outside unattended. He sat up yawning as she set the tray down.

‘There is warm water in the pitcher by the basin. Wash up if you like, and eat your breakfast. Then come out to the Common Room. We can talk about you helping out in the stables or in the kitchen, if you will.’

She then exited the room leaving the boy to himself. He walked over to the pitcher and splashed some water on his face in an attempt to wake up. He had had a night of strange dreams and was having some difficulty adjusting back to the real world. He returned to the couch and attacked the meal with a vengence. Then he suddenly sat up with a start. She said something about helping out in the kitchend - dishes! He nearly bolted out the nearby window right then and there but remembered that the Innkeeper had also mentioned the stables. I'll at least stay and help with that, they're nice. Then I'm leaving, like Awyrgan. He thought for a time about the strange man who was nearly the only adult figure he ever interacted with, even if it was only once every couple of weeks or months if the man picked a particulary grueling task. I can take care of myself. I like being by myself. He paused in his thoughts to notice that he had eaten all that had been set before him. He finished the last of the cider and made his way cautiously back into the main room. Few of the patrons had yet awakened and the boy walked over to the remains of the previous nights fire. He sat quietly next to it, playing with the embers.

[ January 13, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

Child of the 7th Age

01-13-2003, 03:35 PM

Cami turned politely to the Elven-maid. She could see that Pio was writing, and it was best she not be disturbed at this moment.

"You are new here. Welcome to the Shire! Perhaps, you would like a plate of eggs and bacon. Just let one of the servers know, and they'll be most happy to help."

"My name is Cami, and I'm an assistant Innkeeper."

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

ElentariGreenleaf

01-13-2003, 04:03 PM

A young elf walked into the Green Dragon. She had just been to see if she could find the Grey Havens. Now see was looking for adventure.

"Excuse me? Where is the Landlord or Lady?" she asked a few random people. Her light grey eyes scanned for someone of importance. She had never seen hobbits before. She was nervous and pulled her green cloak tighter around herself. Sofiya sat down on a stool, alone.

[ January 13, 2003: Message edited by: ElentariGreenleaf ]

Nurumaiel

01-13-2003, 04:14 PM

The door was flung open and an old, mean-looking hobbit lady stepped in. She looked around the room angrily, and then walked to the first person she could find, who was unfortunately Pio.

"Excuse me," she said rudely. "Have you seen a little hobbit girl around here anywhere?"

"About how old?" Pio asked, pausing in her work for a moment.

"Younger than ten."

"I've never seen anyone that young at the inn," said Pio with a smile. "But if you're certain there is a girl that young, please feel welcome to look. I'll come and assist you soon."

"Thank you," said the woman, not sounding a bit thankful. She went from table to table, peering closely into everyone's face, making them rather nervous.

Don's brown eyes grew larger than they already were, and her face paled. "It's my aunt," she whispered frantically to Rie. "Please, please hide me!"

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: Nurumaiel ]

Frodess

01-13-2003, 04:34 PM

Sapphire_Flame

01-13-2003, 04:46 PM

Morestel came back downstairs after only a few hours sleep. She had changed into a green tunic and leggings, reminicent of the clothing of Mirkwood elves, as she didn't think it wise to wear her battle gear out among so many people. She needed to talk to the landlady about payment for her room.

The landlady was talking to someone when Morestel came down, so she sat down at the bar to wait. She pushed her black hair back over her shoulder and looked around; the inn was still crowded.

The hobbit the landlady was talking to seemed very enthusiastic about something. "Well," Morestel thought, "maybe something exciting will be happening soon." She ordered an ale, and waited for the landlady to finish her conversation.

[ January 13, 2003: Message edited by: Sapphire_Flame ]

Lumiel

01-13-2003, 04:49 PM

*Young Lumiel smiled her thanks and took a seat. She wondered who to place her order to and looked around with wide, naive eyes. She smiled and laughed lightly at the antics of the people around her. She pulled down her hood revealing plainly her elven ears and calmly placed her hands in her lap as she decided to wait until one of the servants wasn't busy to ask for some breakfast.

She brought one small hand to a silver necklace at her neck and toyed with a small, delicate-looking silver ring that had a circular opal set in it. After a moment of habitual fingering, she put the necklace beneath her shirt for safe-keeping and listened to the conversation and hustle and bustle around her, getting a feel for her environment.*

Everdawn

01-13-2003, 04:54 PM

Bebberyn walked down to the common room where he went over to Pio and bowed "Im sorry to stop you for a minute Lady Elven, I wish to pay you for lastnight and any outstanding costs of The Everdawn" He lay some gold coins on the table.

Bebberyn smiled at Don and then turned his most charming smile on the hobbit woman.

"Im sure this hobbit youre looking for has just been out playing and looking for some maiden to save from a dragon" He laughed.

"Things can only get better from here" he thought to himself "for how can any harm possibly come to you in a place like this."

Then at the top of the stairs appeared Umbria. Her snow coloured hair almost contrasting against the pale of her skin. Her grey eyes dark and dead.

At once Bebberyn walked up the stairs and took her arm. "You should stay in bed Lady Everdawn, you are too weak to be up and about" To this Umbria nodded.
"Everyone has to eat Bebberyn" she added and sat at one of the tables while Bebberyn went to fetch her some breakfast from one of the serving girls.

theWhiteLady

01-13-2003, 05:12 PM

"Wait an hour or so. Then let folk know we'll be having a little party tomorrow night with Frodo and Bilbo and Samwise as guests of honor."

Laurie nodded, promising to keep the secret, and her blue eyes were alight at being a fellow conspirator. The lady in white noticed the inn was again filling up, some of the travelers she recognized, others were strangers. As she gazed around the room, she spotted a familiar figure silhouetted before the fire. Laurie smiled and walked quickly over to greet him.

"Still here, I see." Nárello turned quickly around to see who had spoken. The firelight flickered on Laurie's face as she sat beside him and asked how his forehead felt. "Oh, and do you want any breakfast, I'm starved!" She looked hopefully around to see any sign of food being served.

[ January 13, 2003: Message edited by: theWhiteLady ]

Orual

01-13-2003, 05:44 PM

With a scowl on her face, Rie followed the hobbit woman with her eyes as she made her way through the common room. She hadn't felt such distaste in regards to a person for a long while. No wonder Don had run away! She thought of her own family that she had run away from with a twinge of sadness: she had been her mother's favorite, her father's princess, and her brothers'...well, her brothers' victim, but they had loved her, too. She felt a swell of pity for Don rise in her heart.

"Don't worry," she said in a voice little more than a growl, "I'm a lot of things, but I'm not so dreadful a person as to give you back to...to..." she struggled to find a word, "to that."

Don grinned weakly, and Rie squeezed her shoulder affectionately, still watching Don's aunt. She shot Nuru a glance filled with everything that she was feeling, to which the Elf nodded. "If it's any consolation," Rie said to Don, "I would've run away too."

Carrûn

01-13-2003, 06:10 PM

"Still here, I see."

Turning around to see who had spoken the bright eyed boy noticed the lady in white standing behind him. He grunted a hello, something about chores, and an "I'm fine" as she sat down next to him and asked him how his forehead was.

When she asked him if he wanted any breakfast Nárello looked up. "I've already had it, but if you're getting food I'd like another drink." His familier grin returned. "Oh by the way Awyrgan left. Now I can't kick anyone in the shins."

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Sword Maiden Of The Shire

01-13-2003, 06:20 PM

It took Champignonne a long time to answer the other hobbit. She had been startled by all of the shuffle and motion. Never before had she seen so many people in one place!
She gazed silently at the two hobbits before her, then she realized that she looked the part of a fool. They frightened her the most, because, out of all of these strange beings, they were of her lineage, and yet they both were her exact opposites, as she could not shout or joke, or even run about without feeling foolish. In a crimson blush, she answered.

"I am Champignonne, new to this strange Inn. You-you had m-mmushrooms, did you not? I could smell them from across the room, and they. . they seem a very fine sort. . .where did you get them?" With this, she looked down at her feet, feeling that she had said too much. But she thought of her mother, and what she would do, and looked them both in the face, if only for a moment. They did seem a handsome sort.

"Yes, we did" replied Pippin. She could see that Champignonne was nervous about the Inn amoung all the new faces."And you might enjoy them as well" she said handing several to her.

"As for where we got them" said Merry jokingly, "I'm afraid we won't be able to get any more for at least two days." He smiled "Farmer Maggot's got it in for us. Isn't that right Pip?"

"Yes," she replied grinning "you would've thought we were stealing his whole crop with the way he set off on us. Why would we steal all of them? There would'nt be any more left for the next time." They both burst out laughing. "Do you mind if we join you?" asked Pippin....

Lumiel

01-13-2003, 07:09 PM

*Lumiel laughed merrily as she listened to some of the talk around her. Her eyes lit up and her weariness was forgotten for the moment. As she looked around once more, she began to pick faces out of the crowd, to recognize and match up their names. She wondered what could have brought so many different people to one place and thought to herself*

"Well, I'm not the only one who wanders, surely."

*She heard her stomach growl and remembered again that she was hungry, but waited politely until she spotted a free servant who she could be sure was a worker for the Green Dragon and not another patron like herself.*

[ January 13, 2003: Message edited by: Lumiel ]

theWhiteLady

01-13-2003, 08:26 PM

"Oh by the way Awyrgan left. Now I can't kick anyone in the shins."

"Oh dear, what a pity!" Laurie's laughter rang out. "I'm sure you will survive," she added. "Right now, I'm simply starving, excuse me while I try to find out when breakfast will be served."

So she rose, and made her way quickly to the kitchens, hoping to find breakfast cooking, or as least some leftovers from the night before. Riding through the night leaves one with quite an appetite!

Everdawn

01-13-2003, 10:47 PM

Bebberyn had returned to find Umbria staring at the boy that had come with Awrygan. She turned to him and said "that man who was here, Bebberyn, you said you knew him."

Bebberyn looked at the boy... "yes, I think I have seen him before, not by that name of course." Umbria frowned.
"How old are you Bebberyn?" she asked after a while. "30 m'lady, why do you ask?."

"I need to get my grips on time." She looked now at the hobbits who were called Merry and Pippin. "They have so much joy to give the world, a happy place this is, untouched by evil."

"yes Lady Everdawn." Bebberyn replied.

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: Everdawn ]

Belin

01-14-2003, 04:17 AM

As quietly as she could, Belin hopped down from atop the bookshelf, half-scolding herself. She must have fallen asleep up there. So much had changed since she'd spoken in this inn, so many people whose entrances she'd missed, most of them, it seemed, wanting breakfast.

She nodded politely at the newcomers and introduced herself. She noticed Champignonne's nervousness, and smiled to herself sympathetically. She must be unused to such a strange company, and such a large one. I know the feeling.

"Would you like to help make breakfast?" she asked. "It's just the way to make friends." A smile of relief crossed the hobbit's face at the prospect of escaping, if only for a few moments into a warm, pleasant kitchen. Nobody could feel timid while making breakfast! She nodded.

"Good!" cried Belin. As they made their way toward the kitchen, she looked around for any other volunteers. Some in this inn looked as if they'd been making their own breakfasts in far less amenable conditions for quite some time, and she fully expected them to find their way into the kitchen in time. "You, perhaps?" she hazarded at a green-cloaked elf who sat alone and seemingly bewildered.

On her way there, she stopped at the shoulder of the irritable hobbit woman. "Would you like anything, Mistress Donnamira?" she asked pleasantly.

"Don't try to sweet-talk me!" she cried. "I'm looking for my niece!"

Belin shrugged and ducked into the kitchen, half-glad to notice that Piosenniel was still busy with her letter. She had a certain dread that the keen-eyed elf would stare down at her with the full weight of her gaze and ask where she'd been all this time.

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: Belin ]

piosenniel

01-14-2003, 05:26 AM

Pio put the last flourish to her letter, and setting the quill aside, poured the fine black sand across the inky script. She waited patiently for the sand to absorb the ink puddled on the lines of the letters. Gently she picked up the paper, letting it bow slightly across the middle. A light tap with her free fingers and the sand drifted down to the bottom. The paper, then tipped, delivered the sand back to its container in a fine, dark stream.

She read the letter once more with a critical eye, finding to her satisfaction that it sounded as she wished it to. Pio folded the letter into thirds and placed it in an addressed envelope -

Mithadan
The Lonely Star at Harlond
Minas Anor, Gondor

securing the flap with blue sealing wax and the imprint of a six pointed star.

One of the guests, she had heard, was bound for Gondor that morning. He took her letter and the coins she offered, promising to deliver it with all speed. He was out the door then, and on his way after breakfast.

She stood under the tree in the courtyard, watching the cloud of dust from his mount’s hooves grow small and smaller, wishing all the while the horse would sprout wings and fly.

ElentariGreenleaf

01-14-2003, 08:03 AM

Sofiya's light grey eyes still searched for a landlord or lady. She knew no one here, and had not the courage to ask someone directly. She just sat down and waited for someone who could be the land lord or lady to walk past, then ask them for a room for the night.

"Excuse me?" Sofiya was at a loss. How could she have adventure and survive when she couldn't even ask where the land lord or lady was. She wished she had never entered the inn. This was her first encounter with Hobbits, and it was not turning out how she thought it would.

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: ElentariGreenleaf ]

Nurumaiel

01-14-2003, 11:54 AM

Aunt Donnamira began advancing towards their table. Don watched her in horror and fear, clutching Rie's hand. Nuru suddenly whispered something into Rie's ear and then dived forward.

"Hello, Miss Donnamira," she said, smiling. "I couldn't help but catch your name. I'm helping the innkeepers make the meals around here. Would you like some late breakfast?"

"I'm looking for my niece; I'm not hungry," Aunt Donnamira snapped.

"Ah, really?" said Nuru. "Well, that's really too bad. I had some eggs and bacon left... oh, yes, and the sausages. Such fine sausages they were. Oh, and the toast! The toast was so crisp and golden. But, if you aren't hungry."

Aunt Donnamira's hobbitish hungriness took over her. "Well, maybe some breakfast," she said, then added rudely, "But you don't look like you can cook."

"Nuru's distracting your aunt," said Rie to the frightened girl clinging to her hand. "Let's go find Pio, or go up to my room, or something."

"Let's go up to your room," said Don, not knowing who 'Pio' was and not wanting to place faith in her until she did.

Rie brought Don up the stairs and into her room, locking the door. Don went to the window and looked out, then turned back to Rie, and said, "Thank you so much. That's the first nice thing anyone ever did for me since my parents died." Then she turned once again to the window.

"Please, sit down, Miss Donnamira," said Nuru graciously. "What would you like."

"Everything you mentioned before," said Aunt Donnamira. "And have you seen my niece about. Nasty little creature, she is, always into some mischief."

Having not seen a nasty girl, or even a mischievous one, only a girl with a tongue and a brain, Nuru could answer truthfully that, no, she had not seen any girl fitting that description. Then she went into the kitchen to make Aunt Donnamira's breakfast.

Child of the 7th Age

01-14-2003, 11:56 AM

Cami turned her attention to the other problem at hand. Pio had finished her letter and now stood watching it disappear down the road to Gondor.

Cami stood in front of the Elf announcing her grand idea. "Excuse me Mistress Pio. I have a wonderful ploy to expand our business! You remember I mentioned about a little dinner party at Bag-end. Most generously, Bilbo has agreed to come here with his guests. Masters Frodo and Samwise and Mistress Rose will also be in attendence, so I expect this will arouse a lot of interest in the neighborhood, what with the unprecedented concern about the Ring and all. I would expect a great number of people to crowd into the Inn hoping to meet our guests, and undoubtedly there will be much eating and drinking." Most of it no doubt by the Gamgee brood! But she did not say that out loud.

Here the hobbit looked down squarely at her feet, scampering breathlessly through a few unimportant details, which she spoke in her tiniest voice, scarcely as loud as a whisper: "Of course we'll pick up the tab, and Samwise's chidren will come as well."

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

piosenniel

01-14-2003, 01:28 PM

"Of course we'll pick up the tab, and Samwise's children will come as well." whispered the Hobbit, trailing off at the end.

Pio nodded her head as Cami spoke to her, her mind only half on the Hobbit’s words. ‘I should have saddled Rochfalmar and ridden south myself.’ she thought to herself. ‘The answer will be so long in coming.’ Distracted, she put her arm about Cami’s shoulders as they walked back to the Inn.

The Hobbit could scarce believe her good fortune. Pio had agreed! And without so much as a frown or icy stare. Cami chattered on merrily, relishing how her plan for the party had thus far gone smoothly. Her enjoyment was short lived.

As they entered the Common Room, thoughts of the letter receded from the Elf’s mind to be taken up by the numerous details of daily life and commerce at the Inn. Pio stopped abruptly just a few feet from the door, her hand tightening on Cami’s shoulder, bringing her to a sudden halt. She turned the Hobbit to face her.

Pio’s words were low and clipped, as she recalled the content of what Cami had proposed in the courtyard. ‘Banazîr and his thirteen children, along with Bilbo, Frodo and Rose will be our guests . . . our guests!’ She stared icily at the now silent Hobbit. ‘What were you thinking Mistress Goodchilde? I have just gotten this place back on an even footing. We can scarce afford the staff we have at present. How will we pay the extra staff needed to put on the sort of party Master Bilbo will be expecting. Had you remembered that tomorrow is the cook’s day off! We cannot serve up warmed over stew with a smile and a basket of day old bread and call it a party!’

The Elf sat down heavily in a chair, her left hand rubbed at her forehead, the beginnings of a headache pounding behind her eyes. She took a deep breath, willing it away. ‘And look at this place? It needs cleaning, and decorating, if we are to have a party.’ Pio pointed up to where the spiders had festooned the rafters with their webs and silky streamers.

Her hand came down to rest against her belly. The twins were active now, sensing their Mother’s frustration. Shh! Your ammë will take care of it. she sent to them. Pio pulled the small purse from her belt, and fished out two gold coins. ‘Mithadan sent these for my “ease”, as he put it. And I feel the need for some of that ease at present.’ She placed the two coins in Cami’s hand and closed the Hobbit’s fingers securely over them.

‘I will be gone this evening to Amarantha’s house for a long dinner, and perhaps I shall stay the night. For now, I am going back to my room to rest. The entire party and its preparations, I will leave entirely to your capable Hobbit hands.’

Pio got up from the chair and walked slowly back to the bar. She turned, a half smile creasing her face. ‘Best get busy, Cami! Your task is at hand, and the time for its completion grows short. Good luck!’

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

ElentariGreenleaf

01-14-2003, 01:41 PM

Sofiya could sense frustration all about her. Her senses were sharper than most elves'. She could here a bird singing as if it were right next to her, even though it was noisey where she was.

Sofiya started to consider leaving. She wondered if she should spend the night in a tree. Ah, the trees. She missed her home, but she did not wish to return. She had vowed to return with tales of adventure for her young counsins. Though she was barely more than a child herself, she was very grown up. Maturity was expected of her. She was, after all, of noble blood. She stood to leave.

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: ElentariGreenleaf ]

arelendil

01-14-2003, 01:45 PM

Elwen couldn't help but smile as this strange man led her over to a table and introduced her to a dwarf. The stranger had talked very fast, and had still not mentioned his name though he seemed to know much of her and her past.

Elwen slide into the chair that the stranger offered. Smoothing down her midnight blue tunic and waves of dark hair. In one fluid movement she removed the bow from her back placing it on her lap, her slender fingers tracing the patterns and script engraved upon its silver surface. Elwen nodded to the dwarf. She was quite acustome to them having travelled with one for many days all the way from Ithilien. In fact he was a very close friend of hers and she missed him almost as much as her lord and master.

With a flick of the hair and a sparkle of the eye, Elwen had stepped away from the sorrow and was now concerntrating upon the small group gathered at the table.

"You ask for a tale? Let me think."Elwen paused to let her mind wander the twists and turns of memory. "I can not tell you one of my own for I have only been upon Arda for less than a year. I can tell you a tale i have seen or maybe you would like to her of the night sky from which I have come?"

Elwen look at the two seated with her. She was being very open tonight but it didn't bother her in the least for she know that always would her people guide her and soon, so very soon would she leave to rejoin her love!

Elwen waited for the reply. Which tale would the two prefere?

Sapphire_Flame

01-14-2003, 01:48 PM

There was a young elf sitting at the bar, looking rather frustrated. Her grey eyes continually scanned the room, then she stood to leave.

"Wait," Morestel said. "I can understand your frustration well, but just wait for a moment. I'm sure someone will be along." She smiled. "Sit down here. Tell me, what is your name?"

ElentariGreenleaf

01-14-2003, 01:56 PM

Sofiya sat again. She smiled gratefull.y Someone had noticed her. Someone was being kind to her and not just for her high status.

"My name is Sofiya. Nice to meet you. What is your name?"

"I am Morestel. What brings you here? I have never seen you before."

"I came to catch a glimpse of the grey havens. I also seek adventure, for my young counsins are always asking me to tell them stories. As yet, I have none to tell them." Sofiya could not stop smiling. She had, had no real friends in Mirkwood.

theWhiteLady

01-14-2003, 02:06 PM

Laurie paused on her way to the kitchens as she passed Pio sitting with her head in her hands. Oh dear, I wonder what the matter could be,she thought, her brow wrinkled in concern. Pio rose and wished Cami good luck before moving behind the bar. Cami stood with a rather odd expression on her face, and Laurie approached carefully.

"Cami, is everything allright?" she inquired, her blue eyes resting upon the little hobbit.

Envinyatar

01-14-2003, 02:52 PM

Derufin yawned and stretched as he sat up in bed. He swung his legs to the floor, and yawned again. It had been a night of peaceful sleep, and he looked forward to a pleasant day.

He poured some water into the basin on the wash stand, and splashed it vigorously on his face, driving the last traces of sleep from his eyes. His fingers ran over the stubble on his cheeks and chin, and he pulled his razor from his pack along with the brush and foamy soap bar. Propping up the small mirror he carried with him, he went about conquering his beard with sure strokes from the razor's sharp edge.

Picking some clean clothes from the bottom of the pack, he pulled on a pair of black breeches, a black tunic, and his last blessed pair of socks. 'I must do some washing today if I am to appear presentable in the coming days.' he spoke aloud, as he pulled on his boots. 'And these boots - they look quite disreputable. Perhaps I can find someone willing to clean them for a coin or two.'

These thoughts occupying his mind, he came down the stairs, looking to find breakfast. He paused halfway down the stairs, watching the scene between the Hobbit and Mistress Piosenniel. 'What sort of drama is this?' he wondered. 'And why does the Elf rub her head so,then retire to her rooms behind the bar?'

Since breakfast was nowhere in sight, and his path did pass the Hobbit who now stood with another, he stopped, too, to speak with her.

'May I be of service, m'lady? You look as if a heavy burden has been laid on you. I find myself free this morning, and will help you as I can.' He grinned at her and raised his brows as she glanced up at him.

'My terms for services rendered are easily met.' he assured her inquiring look. 'I'll work for food and the pleasure of your good company.'

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: Envinyatar ]

Eruantalon

01-14-2003, 03:21 PM

Feeling dumbstruck like a dull Troll.He realized he never told Elwen his name.

"Now how rude of me.But how gracious of you to sit with such an ill manered man.I am Eruantalon,friends call me Erulon.I am a warroir,minstrel,and a true seer.I have helped,and been help on adventures.With all the people of middel earth."Now a broad grin was on him.He waited his hart swelled with joy.Such a tale he would hear.Of the place that had taken his hart from him for so long.

For no matter what happened to him.The clear night sky would brighten his spirits,and give him great joy.He had loved it for so long.Now he was to hear a tale of it.Possibaly one no one had ever heard.

Taking out his sword,Bow,and ax he showed her."These are gifts from far places.I am a friend to all those that walk apon middle earth.But never have I met one as to you.Fair Elwen,who sits with an uncoth man.But pays him no mind."

"Please tell us a story of the sky.Although I love the day light,when I was a child I fell in love with the stars.So I am ever enchanted with the night sky."

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: Eruantalon ]

Artalwen

01-14-2003, 03:39 PM

The wooden door slowly creaked open, and a small hobbit entered the tavern. She was covered with a deep gray cloak as she walked inside. Her dark green eyes glanced around as she eased the hood off her dark auburn hair. A few others glanced up, but didn't take much interest in another guest at the tavern.
She spotted a cloak hanger, and carefully eased the cloak off, and hung it up, still looking around in the new environment. She looked down and brushed invisible crumbs off her emerald dress, and waited for anyone to help her.

Sapphire_Flame

01-14-2003, 03:43 PM

"My name is Sofiya. Nice to meet you. What is your name?"
"I am Morestel. What brings you here? I have never seen you before." The girl seemed friendly, a characteristic that Morestel had not encountered in a long time.
"I came to catch a glimpse of the Grey Havens. I also seek adventure, for my young cousins are always asking me to tell them stories. As yet, I have none to tell them."
"You seek adventure?" Morestel asked. "Well then, it seems we have a common purpose. Though I, unfortunately do not have anyone to tell of my journey; I have no kin that I know of." Morestel paused for a moment.

"Perhaps, we could travel together. I have not met any other elves in my travels, and I'm sure we could both use some company." She waited for Sofiya's reply.

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: Sapphire_Flame ]

ElentariGreenleaf

01-14-2003, 03:49 PM

"Yes!" replied Sofiya, getting excited. "I would love too. But first, could you do something for me?"

Morestel looked at the elf, wondering what she could want. "Ok. What do you want me to do?"

"Please, could you tell me of your travels! I have never before met an elf who has been on such a journey." Sofiya longed to know what the wild land was like, for she had never travelled alone, until now. She had travelled through the Shire with other elves who were leaving this land.

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: ElentariGreenleaf ]

Sapphire_Flame

01-14-2003, 04:01 PM

"My travels?" Morestel was a bit surprised. Nobody had ever been interested in what she had done before, and Sofiya seemed so insistent. "Well, I guess you're right, I have been on quite a journey. Let me think...

"I suppose I'll give you the editted rendition; we could be here for days if I told the whole tale! I lived in the South for most of my life, raised by Men. I was, ah, fortunate enough to be involved in the Great War, which I am quite sure you know of. After Sauron's defeat I just wandered out on my own...I went to Fangorn Forest for a short time, and Southern Mirkwood, then I finally came here. This is quite different from the other places I have been, and a welcome relief; meeting kind people and having a roof over your head is much better than keeping wargs away in a dark forest at night. Besides, wandering with no purpose begins to wear at one after a while; I hope to find a quest to aid in while I am here."

It was a lot to digest. Sofiya looked quite impressed, and surprised. Morestel laughed quietly. "Now it is your turn; tell me something of your journey."

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: Sapphire_Flame ]

Artalwen

01-14-2003, 04:09 PM

The small hobbit, who was called Carie, shifted stance, and stood there for a moment. Looking around yet again, she spotted a lone chair against the wall, and quietly went over to sit down.
"Oomph" she went as she accidently ran into a really tall elf.
"Ooh I am terribly sorry, I didn't mean to!" she explained in a rush, not wanting the elf to be angry with her. It was her first time being around elves, and she didn't want to make a bad impression, for she had always been fascinated with the stories of them, longing to meet one. And here was an elf, that she had run right into!
"Ooh, don't worry about it, darling. What's your name?" the elf asked, leaning down a bit to get a good view of the tiny hobbit.
"I'm Carie. May I ask you of yours?" Carie politely said. She clasped her hands together and looked up into the elf's eyes.

ElentariGreenleaf

01-14-2003, 04:13 PM

It was a lot to digest. Sofiya looked quite impressed, and surprised. Morestel laughed quietly. "Now it is your turn; tell me something of your journey."

"Well, there's not much to tell. I am young, 25. There is not much to tell. I left Mirkwood because I was forced to leave this land. But I did not want to leave. My relatives told me that I should leave, they said I was old enough. They said it would be a privalige.

"I ran away when we got near to this village. I hid for a few days and then went to see the port of the grey havens. I did not wish to sail, and I don't think I ever will. This land is too beautiful."

*OCC: is that young for elves?*

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: ElentariGreenleaf ]

Child of the 7th Age

01-14-2003, 04:31 PM

"Oh, no, Laurie, everything is not alright. Mistress Pio was not pleased to discover that 17 hobbits will be eating her out of house and home. And now she has left the entire party preparations in my hands, only I have very little time. At the rate we are going, I will have to ask the guests to come into the kitchen and start cooking."

"Could you possibly take on some of these duties, and dole them out among the kitchen staff and whoever else you can persuade? The party room must be cleaned and streamers and garlands put up, and a grand cake made and decorated. Whoever helps will get to share in the feast, and to meet Frodo, and Samwise, and Bilbo when they come."

Cami wasn't sure what Mistress Pio would say to the latter arrangement, but there was really no way for her to object. Later tonight, I'll suggest some names of folk who might help, but meanwhile you are welcome to contact anyone you want, or to figure out a way to do the work yourself."

Cami threw on her coat and ran out the door, harnessing the pony to the cart for a trip to the market. She carried along a long shopping list.

Lumiel

01-14-2003, 04:45 PM

*Lumiel continued to look around in wonder, it was seldom she was part of such a large crowd, though she still didn't feel that she was a "part" of it. She listened to the elf named Sofiya and the other woman named Morestel talking and felt a pang when they spoke of their kin, or lack of kin.

Her bright eyes dimmed a moment as she pressed her lips together and cast her gaze to the floor. Her sorrow was too recent and she closed her eyes tightly to stem off the tears before they came, then when she had regained control of herself, she sighed and again looked up, continuing to listen to the two talk.

Realizing that her curious, though harmless listening may be taken the wrong way if the two elves caught on, she blushed a rosy pink and turned her attention to the green-clad hobbit who had just entered. She studied the hobbit's pretty green dress appraisingly and smiled, deciding that she liked it. Hearing others' comments on hunger, she realized that she wasn't the only one hungry and guessed that food wouldn't be long in coming.*

Aelfwine

01-14-2003, 06:01 PM

Aelfwine stood at the door of the Inn and slowly pushed it open. He had never visited the Green Dragon before. The man knew no one here and was very hungry. But alas he had no money for food.

He walked up to the bar and wondered what to do. Over to the side, he heard two people talking. He tried to strain his ear to hear their conversation. It seemed that if he volunteered to work and help set up a party for a number of hobbits whose names were known to him, he would be rewarded with food. That idea appealed to him greatly.

He walked over to Laurie and drew her aside. "I would like to help and am not afraid of hard work. Might I have a few slices of bread first, as it has been a whole day since I have eaten? Then I will be glad to do your heavy cleaning and moving the tables where you want them."

Lumiel

01-14-2003, 06:11 PM

*Lumiel looked at the sign that the hobbit Cami had posted and read it, a gay smile creeping across her face. She thought to herself*

"A feast! That would do well for a hungry stomach, and for a lonely heart. I'd be glad to work for my keep!"

*She stood and walked over to Cami, looking down at her with eager eyes*

"Excuse me, but I see you are in need of willing helping hands. I would gladly work for you, if you would have me. I'll do anything!"

*She smiled eagerly at Cami and hope gleamed in her bright eyes, which seemed to shift from green to blue. Her hands were clasped together in an innocent geusture of excitement over her breast.*

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: Lumiel ]

Child of the 7th Age

01-14-2003, 06:51 PM

"Lumiel, you are most welcome. I would be happy to have you assist us. Perhaps you could go to the kitchens and find the ingredients to make a very large cake. It will have to be big enough to feed all 13 of Sam's children, and, being hobbits, they will probably want more than one piece. Plus, I am hopeful that many folk will want to volunteer and share in the feast. You may want to decorate the cake with pictures and list Frodo and Sam's name, along with Bilbo's, on the top."

"I expect Laurie to be back later and, if you have any questions, you can pose them to her. If she's not available, just get back with me and I'll try to help."

Cami looked about the Inn greatly relieved. That was at least two volunteers and she was hopeful that there would soon be more.

Lumiel

01-14-2003, 06:59 PM

*Lumiel laughed cheerfully, happy to be able to help. She quickly scampered off to the kitchens, where she took off her cloak and put an apron over her dark green outfit that was made more for traveling than cooking. She glanced around the cozy kitchen and saw a large pile of ingredients, all of which would be used in a cake. She walked over to the pile and started to go through the ingredients.*

"Let's see...flour, eggs, sugar...it's been a while since I've baked like this but I'm sure I'll do a good job! I hope..."

*She shook off her pessimism and got to work. She rolled up her sleeves and used a leather strap to tie her hair back. She took out the ingredients she would need and began to search for pots and pans, setting to her dilligent work*

Nurumaiel

01-14-2003, 07:03 PM

As Nuru walked back into the kitchen, she caught sight of the notice put up by Cami. A huge smile appeared on her face, and she ran into the kitchen. Bilbo, Samwise, and his children were coming? Why, she'd known them even before the War of the Ring, introduced to them by Robin Brandybuck! She had been planning on visiting them while she was in the Shire, but she hadn't counted on having enough time. Now they were coming to the inn.

"Oh, I just can't wait to see them," said Nuru excitedly as she began cooking lunch. After burning some toast, she shoved the thought of seeing the hobbits again out of her mind so she could cook lunch properly.

After she had gone about, serving lunch to whoever wished for some, she stopped in front of the notice. "I'll need to help out if I'm to be allowed to go to the feast. Let me go talk to Cami..."

Nuru sought out the hobbit and then said, "Is there anything I can do to help prepare the feast? You see, Bilbo, Samwise, and I are very old friends. Oh, and my friend Rie... well, she would dearly love to come, I'm sure, but she's looking after-" Nuru lowered her voice to a whisper "-that grouchy hobbit woman's niece. Would you mind dreadfully if I snuck them into the party room so they could help?"

Child of the 7th Age

01-14-2003, 07:12 PM

Several more volunteers....that would be just fine. Cami wrote down the names of Nuru, and Rie, and their young friend.

"Perhaps you'd want to take a short walking trip about the Shire and come back with a large batch of green garlands that we could string up in the rafters. And also flowers to decorate the dining tables. I think that Aelfwine will be glad to decorate with them."

Cami gave a hasty glance up to the ceiling and saw cobwebs and fluff balls hanging down.

"One more thing," she called out to Nuru. You might want to try and get some of that down." She poined upward as a lazy string of spider's silk floated down to the floor.

Finiel

01-14-2003, 07:17 PM

An Elf...another elf...a hobbit (a very angry one)...third elf...a hobbit....a man, Sarah thought counting every person who recently entered the inn after Derufin left to get some sleep.

Oh my! Those are great eyes. It shifts from blue to green and it reminds me of Queen Beruthiel, she muttered as she saw an elf with extraordinary eyes.

Then after being inside the inn for days, she went out for a jog to smell some fresh air. As she went outside and closed the door of the inn she noticed a sign about some party of a hobbit family and thought that it might be good to help.
"Might do good for me to interact with the natives," she muttered and went inside looking for the assistant innkeeper Cami.
"Hullo!" she said spotting Cami,"may I be of service about some Mr. Frodo's party. I can be a good...erm...waitress perhaps? Or an usherette?...please?" Sarah said waiting for Cami's reply.

It might be good for my lazy bones and my gramps would be proud at least.she thought.

theWhiteLady

01-14-2003, 07:21 PM

Laurie listened with care at Cami's directions but watched her run off with bewilderment. How, oh how, were they going to pull this off! Just as she was beginning to despair, a man pulled her aside.

"I would like to help and am not afraid of hard work. Might I have a few slices of bread first, as it has been a whole day since I have eaten? Then I will be glad to do your heavy cleaning and moving the tables where you want them."

Laurie let out a sigh of relief. She grasped his hands in a rush of gratitude. "Thank you so much, good sir! Go right into the kitchens and I'm sure someone will be able to find you more than just a few slices of bread to eat. Then we'll see about helping out." She smiled, and felt much better now that she had at least one helper!

Everdawn

01-14-2003, 07:38 PM

Bebberyn sat across from his liegelady as she ate breakfast, he thought to himself "I wonder what she was thinking of doing in the Shire?, no, most of all I wonder why it is that she came here and will not go back to Dol Amroth."

Umbria looked over her coffee at Bebberyn, her gray gaze strong on him he dared not look at her face. "Why did you not ask if you were so interested my dear Bebberyn."

She smiled, "im sorry Lady Everdawn" he stammered, and he felt ashamed, he forgot she was an elf, and an elf with the gift of perception. Umbria began to speak.

"I was thinking of going to the Grey Havens with Niquinion, my cousin, who now is slain. So now I am directing my study to Hobbits. After that I will return to Dol Amroth one last time. I will retire my position as advisor to the prince, I will release you from your service to me and once again I will go and dwell among my people of Lothlorien."

She paused "Long time I have feared to spend immortality as a thing of wonder passed between the princes of Dol Amroth, you do understand, dont you Bebberyn?"

"yes m'lady" he answered and went to the bar, only to be knocked out of the way by a pretty hobbit woman of 23, her black sausage curls bounded around her shoulders as she turned briefly to apologise while making her way to Cami.

"Cami! Cami!, Its me Snowdrop Morningside! Listen! father sent me over with 100 bottles of harvest wine from our vinyards for the party!... oh dear, Cami, I hope it will do... and to let you know, I am willing ot help with whatever you need!" she said all this very fast and now waited for a reply.

Nurumaiel

01-14-2003, 07:40 PM

"Right away," said Nuru, but first she walked towards the stairs. Aunt Donnamira had gone off in a huff, saying something about 'those crazy hobbits and children.'

Bounding up the stairs, Nuru came to Rie's room, her eyes sparkling. "Donnamira just left and Bilbo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee are coming today and if you help you get to go to the feast!"

"Bilbo!" Don screamed, running towards the door. "He was the one who taught me to read and write!"

Rie was immediately after the girl. Nuru hurried after them and set to work on getting the cobwebs cleared off the ceiling.

Artalwen

01-14-2003, 07:44 PM

She clasped her hands together and looked up into the elf's eyes.

"Well now, my name is Erawyn." The elf replied.

The hobbit-girl smiled shyly. "Nice to meet you, Erawyn." she said, holding out her hand.

"Nice to meet you, Carie. Would you please excuse me, I saw an offer for jobs here, and I need something to get a bit of money so that I can continue on my way." Erawyn said. She stood up again, and smoothed out any wrinkles in her boyish pants, and straightened her shirt. She walked over to the hobbit she guessed was in charge. "Hello. I saw the notice on the door, about the jobs? I know I am an elf, an unlikely source to hire for a job here, but I would really appreciate it."

Meanwhile Carie went over to the chair, and sat down. Gazing about, she saw an elf that had been staring at her. Carie was fascinated with the elf's eyes, for they seemed to change colors. Carie's curiosity overtook her shyness, this one time. She got up and, though curious, shyly walked over to the elf.

"Excuse me." Carie said, as she approached the elf. "I could'nt help but notice you. Have your eyes always been that beautiful?" Carie asked, a light blush hinted on her cheeks.

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: Artalwen ]

Child of the 7th Age

01-14-2003, 08:05 PM

"Ah, Snowdrop, I am so very happy to see you," Cami smiled broadly at the hobbit. And, at the back of her mind she thought: However pleased I am to see my friend, and I surely am, I am even more pleased to see the 100 bottles of her father's wine! Maybe Piosenniel will not yell at me so loudly for giving so many people free meals.

"And, Snowdrop, since you know so much about fine wine and ale, why don't you organize our supplies behind and bar and perhaps serve as bartender during the party? That would be a very great help to me."

Finally, she turned to speak with the Elf who had asked if she could help with the party. "And what is your name?" Cami asked.

"Arawyn," the stranger replied with quiet dignity. Cami thought carefully for a minute. "Do you by chance have skill with Elven music? For Bilbo loves the songs and tunes and would greatly enjoy hearing some music with his meal? If that is not something you'd enjoy, then perhaps you can help out in the kitchen with the cooking."

She let the Elf sit down and think about her choices, and told her to let either Laurie or herself know later that night.

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Child of the 7th Age

01-14-2003, 08:14 PM

Cami tacked up a large sign on the door of the Green Dragon Inn:

Notice is hereby given to all those who visit the Green Dragon Inn:

Masters Bilbo and Frodo, along with Master Samwise and his family (all 13 children) will shortly be visiting the Inn for a dinner party. Mistress Piosenniel has expressed an interest in seeing the party room cleaned up and decorated, as well as any who would like to work on baking the cake or cooking the other food. All who assist in the preparations will be allowed to feast in the party room, and to meet these famous residents of Hobbiton.

If you are interested, please speak to or leave a note for Mistress Laurie, Inn worker, or Mistress Cami, Asst. Innkeeper, and indicate your willingness to take on one or more chores. You may then get to work immediately. We thank you for your cooperation. It appears that the Shire has been hit by a serious labor shortage which had left us extremely short staffed.

We thank you for your assistance, and hope that a good party will be had by all.

Cami Goodchild, Asst. Innkeeper

Everdawn

01-14-2003, 08:30 PM

Snowdrop sighed with delight "oh thankyou Cami! thankyou so much... do you by any chance know if Merry and Pippin will be here? I should like to see them again."

Bebberyn of Dol Amroth couldnt help listening to Cami's plea from the elf. "The Lady Everdawn, or Umbria so she is called is gifted at harp playing, she is an elf, you may want to know that" he smiled his most charming smile.

"Should you need help unloading your store of wine?" he asked Snowdrop. "not right now Sir, later perhaps." He bowed and returned to his table with a glass of water.

Snowdrop's eyes widened as she watched Bebberyn walk away "he has a aword!" she backed up closer to the bar in fright. "I did ride by Buckland today and saw no sign of either of Merry or Pippin" she shurgged and took a broom and began to sweep.

Frodess

01-14-2003, 09:09 PM

Orual

01-14-2003, 09:22 PM

"Well, this is my room," Rie said, a twinge of apology in her voice. She had picked up the room some for Nuru, but not entirely, and it still resembled her own room. "It's a little mess--"

"It's fine," Don interrupted, still looking anxious.

"Good," Rie said. "I'm glad you think so." She jumped on the bed, but Don went to stand by the window. The girl looked so forlorn...Rie went to stand by her. "You know," she said, "on my first night here, a man came in with an awful arm injury. Blood all over the place! I helped Pio fix him up, but it rather shook me." Don gave her a knowing look. "Okay, fine, it terrified me, happy? Anyway, I came up here, retreated to my little room, to brood, to wonder what in all of Middle-earth had I gotten myself into, and to be by myself." She laughed. "As usual at this Inn, that didn't happen! Pio came in to see how I was doing. Not that I mind--it was like having my family here." Rie stared up into the sky. "She brought me a warm drink like my mother always did, and she told me a story--the story of Eärendil, the Mariner." Half-closing her eyes, she recited the story that Pio told her.

For a long while they stood in silence. Then, suddenly, Nuru burst in.

"Donnamira just left and Bilbo Baggins and Samwise Gamgee are coming today and if you help you get to go to the feast!"

Rie gave a little cry of delight, and didn't hear what Don said after that. They both raced down the stairs, only Rie's slight hesitation preventing a head-on collision.

She had, of course, heard of Frodo, Bilbo, and Samwise--who hadn't? She was born before the War, but had been but a child when it ended. Her father, being a Ranger, had a small part in it, but rarely spoke of it. To meet those who had moved the world with their actions...oh, what a glad wind had brought her to the Inn at such a time! She would clean the cobwebs out of every corner of every room in the entire Inn to meet them--and, she thought laughingly, she just might!

[ January 14, 2003: Message edited by: Orual ]

Carrûn

01-14-2003, 09:51 PM

Nárello noticed the sign being tacked onto the door. Shuffling over from his place at the fire the small boy looked up and squinted. He was not the best with letters but clearly made out the words Frodo, Sam, Green Dragon Inn and party. His shrewd mind put the rest together. I should go find Awyrgan and tell him. Or the Rangers. They should know to keep a closer watch on the Road for the next couple of days. He did not bother to think about whether he would actually be able to find those he thought about, being a small boy after all. Moreover, that the guardians of the Roads would have other means of gathering information didn't completly sink into his young mind.

He made his way over to the Innkeeper and seeing that she was preoccupied did his best to wait for a minute. His patience spent, he tugged at her dress. "I would like to leave soon. Can I do my chores now." She looked at him carefuly, reading his eyes; a gental but firm look in her face. I bet Awyrgan told her to keep an eye on me, he thought with some bitterness. Why? I can take care of myself.

Nuranar

01-14-2003, 10:35 PM

‘Well, that’s that!’ Luinien announced with satisfaction, resting her pitchfork.

She and Tarondo had gotten up early that morning to care for their horses. The somewhat unkempt appearance of the inn’s stables had induced them to remedy the shortfall, in thanks for Mistress Pio’s many kindnesses. Luinien had just finished forking down hay from the loft, and was ready for some breakfast – or luncheon, as it appeared from the sun. But only silence answered her triumphant proclamation.

‘Tarondo?’ Still no answer. He’s probably hiding down there to pounce on me when I come down the ladder, she decided, laying down the pitchfork. Stepping silently across the loft, she approached a rope that dangled over the edge. We’ll see who’s surprised!

Just as she stooped to grasp the rope, she caught a glimpse of movement. Argh! her brain raged for one helpless instant, then a heavy weight crashed into her.

Facedown in the hay, Luinien spluttered futilely, then kicked and squirmed her way out from under her assailant. She tried to wrest free completely, but found herself flat on her back, a capable hand pinning each wrist, and a well-known face grinning down at her wrath.

‘What was that for?’ she demanded. ‘Let me go!’

Tarondo laughed. ‘Why, that was for nothing!’ Seeing by his sister’s lack of appreciation, he continued. ‘Actually, I was done down there and decided to come up and finish the hay for you. You didn’t hear me when I came up the ladder, though, and I thought to sneak up and startle you. Then I noticed how handy these beams were, and…’ he shrugged.

‘And you decided to jump me instead. What a thoughtful brother!’ Luinien glared up at him, but merriment twinkled in her eye. ‘It must have looked funny to see me trying to outwit you, thinking you were waiting under the ladder!’ she giggled. ‘Come on, now, how about letting me up?’

‘Your wish is my command!’ Tarondo released her and helped her to her feet. ‘How about breakfast?’ he inquired as they climbed down the ladder.

‘I’m starving!’ Luinien declared, turning to face him, then broke off in another fit of giggles at the sight. ‘But we’d probably better brush the hay off before we go in!’

Tarondo shouted with laughter. ‘Speak for yourself! Your hair is more gold than black!’

* * *

Several minutes later the pair approached the inn’s front door, somewhat disheveled but (nearly) free of hay. They paused to read the notice on the front door; then, eyebrow raised, Luinien turned the knob and entered. She stepped into the room and stopped dead, jaw dropping in astonishment.

The common room was a scene of bustling activity. Various hobbits and Elf-girls scurried here and there, brandishing various culinary and housekeeping implements, bearing loads of food, and wielding mops and dust rags. Cami was muttering over a list of some kind, and a lovely woman-child in white was directing a man toward the kitchens. A few guests still conversed, blissfully oblivious to a red-haired girl who, armed with a broom and climbing on chairs and tables, was enthusiastically attacking the rafters’ cobwebs.

Luinien shook herself out of her paralysis, gave up any thoughts of food for the present, and addressed the anxious hobbit. ‘Mistress Cami, may my brother and I assist you? I cannot in good faith vouch for our cooking, but I can clean’ – she unobtrusively stepped on a piece of hay that had fallen out of her hair – ‘and Tarondo – oh!’ she broke off.

The red-haired girl had swung herself up onto the rafters to obliterate a particularly noxious spider web. In trying to reach it she had slipped, but Tarondo caught her just in time. ‘May I help you?’ he inquired cheerfully.

Luinien turned back to the assistant innkeeper. ‘It looks as if Tarondo’s talents lie in demolishing cobwebs,’ she laughed. ‘May we help?’

Artalwen

01-14-2003, 11:26 PM

"Do you by chance have skill with Elven music? For Bilbo loves the songs and tunes and would greatly enjoy hearing some music with his meal?

Arawyn thought for a moment, then her face brightened. "I remember many songs from my homeland, I can sing, if you wish!"

The hobbit's face brightened with pleasure. Arawyn knew that meant she was to be the musical entertainment. Happily she sat down at a nearby table to eat a meal.

Child of the 7th Age

01-15-2003, 12:35 AM

Cami tried to deal first with Narello. She placed an arm on the boy's shoulder, but feeing his entire body tense up, she immediately drew it back. How strange! This child reminds me of the Elf Noldor, the one whom Andreth introduced me to, who'd had such a difficult path in life.

Cami found it unnerving to be around a child who'd had all of his childhood wrung out of him. But she tried to put that thought to the back of her mind, All she could do was treat him fairly now. "Yes, Narello, could you possibly go out to help the lad in the stable? We need to tidy things up there, as I'm expecting a lot of folk to come over to the Inn the night of the party , and some of them will want to stable their horses and ponies. After that, you're free to leave, but I hope you'll stay around for the party tomorrow."

Finally, Cami turned to Luinien and Tarondo, and smiled at their suggestion to help with cobweb demolition. She nodded her head in agreement with their plan. After hearing that Arawyn would be able to provide the musical entertainment, Cami heaved a sigh of relief, hurled herself down into a chair, and decided she'd best retire for the night. The flurry of activity had completely exhausted her, since she was still getting over her broken ribs.

As she went slowly down the hallway and crawled into bed, a final thought came to mind. Mistress Piosenniel may be in later tonight. I had only expected to get a volunteer or two, but it looks as if the whole thing has exploded. I hope she won't be too angry about giving away so many free dinners.

But at least there were a few things that could be said in her defence. The Inn was beginning to look fantastic, cleaner and finer than it had looked in years, with the fine decorations still to go up. And at least they'd picked up that hundred bottles of wine which was no small thing. Cami crossed her fingers and hoped that her friend would be in a good frame of mind.

Envinyatar

01-15-2003, 03:49 AM

It was early morning of the party day, and Derufin pushed open the door to the kitchen. It was a sizable room, with a large cook stove that boasted two ovens. A somewhat adept cook, at least in the arts of rough camp cooking, he had volunteered to prepare some of the food for the meal. He poked through the cupboards, and nosed about the pantry shelves, seeing what might be available to him.

Out from the larder came butter, whole wheat flour, and fine corn meal. Onions, potatoes, and crisp carrots he found in the cool root cellar, along with a basket of fresh peas, covered with dampened moss to keep them fresh. He hummed to himself as he poked about. Ah! There was the spice drawer near the warm, dry area of the stove and above the short cupboard it was in, hung savory dried herbs of all sorts.

When he had come to the end of his scouting for ingredients, he stepped back, surveying the offerings he had put out on the counters. ‘Hmmm. There are Hobbits coming tonight. Hungry Hobbits, expecting good food and plenty of it. We’re missing a main course, and we’re missing the one food they favor above all others – mushrooms.’

Lumiel was busy frosting and decorating the cake, and he asked her if she would keep watch on the ingredients he had laid out. He was going out for a few hours he said, and then would be back in plenty of time to make the other foods.

He motioned to the man, Aelfwine, who stood out of the way of the busy preparations, eating a slice of bread spread thick with jam. ‘You want to come along? I’m bound for the fishmonger’s stall, to have him put by some fresh, fat eels and salmon for us, and then to the woods for some big, tasty mushrooms to fry up in cornmeal.

On his way across the yard, Derufin spied the young boy he had seen Mistress Piosenniel carrying in her arms to her room. He was walking slowly toward the stable, very slowly, scuffing the toes of his shoes as he went along. It was easy to see he was not bound toward something he looked forward to in the least.

‘Nárello, is it not.’ he said coming alongside the boy. ‘Do you think the horses would miss your company today if you helped me scout out some mushrooms for the party, tonight.’ The boy had stopped, though he did not raise his eyes to meet the man’s. ‘I, for one, am feeling a little hemmed in by all the female attention to detail, and wish to escape dustball patrol or dueling with spiderwebs. A few hours spent wandering in the woods looking for a prime patch of the Hobbit delicacy will give them enough time to get the Inn in shape to their liking, and take their attention off what they can find for us to do.’

He went to the shed near the Inn’s small garden and peeked his head in. ‘There they are!’ he cried, seizing his target and pulling it forth into the light. A number of large baskets with sturdy handles for carrying were brought out and placed on the ground. Derufin closed the door of the shed securely and picked up two of the larger baskets.

‘This way!’ he said, striding quickly down the lane that lead from the Inn’s courtyard . . .

doug*platypus

01-15-2003, 04:01 AM

It's Proudfeet!

Biffo and Olo were still chuckling and joking quietly to each other about the sign posted on the door, as they walked in and hung up their hats. Biffo, the younger of the two hobbits, also propped a very tall (in hobbit terms) and stout walking staff against the wall.

As Biffo looked around the common room, which was bustling as always, he did not see any familiar faces from his previous night's stay. Even the innkeepers Pio and Cami were apparently nowhere to be seen. This didn't bother the hobbit in the slightest, however, and the promise of a fancy Inn dinner paid for by his uncle kept him as jolly as could be.

After grabbing a beer for the both of them, Biffo followed his uncle over to a nearby table, and they sat down to await their dinner. The two of them sat there for a couple of hours, eating, chatting and of course drinking.

"To the Post Office!" Biffo said as he raised his tankard cheerfully. Olo raised his likewise, and they clanked them together vigorously before each draining their mugs.

Then, bidding his nephew a fond farewell, Olo Proudfoot paid his bill and walked off to grab his hat and head home. The younger Proudfoot likewise paid for himself (except for dinner, of course), requested a room for the night, and after grabbing his things turned in. Soon afterwards, he slipped into a peaceful slumber (peaceful that is, for all out of the range of his snores). Then he whiled the night away dreaming of piles and piles of undelivered letters, huge birthday cakes, and rather disturbingly, goblins.

Belin

01-15-2003, 04:33 AM

Belin stuck her head out of the kitchen. "Cami!" she cried. "Thank you! How do you get all these volunteers? We've got a cake done already, and Lumiel's done a beautiful job!"

But Cami had gone to bed. Belin stood up straight and looked around, wondering how well the inn would run without her and Mistress Pio and nervously fingering her red feather once again.

But all seemed to be going smoothly. Nearly everyone was working or sleeping, and that meal was already shaping up to be something to remember!

Belin looked around for something she could do. There--the decorations lay on the bar, near Morestel and Sofiya, who were deep in conversation. She picked up the beautiful streamers, and realized with a grimace that she was not quite tall enough to hang them, and standing on the stools was quite out of the question (not least because they were occupied!). She cleared her throat delicately, hoping to catch their attention.

"Excuse me," she said, "would you mind helping me with this, please?"

theWhiteLady

01-15-2003, 06:29 AM

Laurie busied herself sweeping the floors, cleaning the tables and setting out decorations she had found in a room near the back of the inn. She hummed a strange tune quietly under her breath as she worked, running over in her mind all that needed still to be done. The kitchens seemed sufficiently full with helpers, and the man from earlier had promised to move more tables out. Laurie heard Cami speak to Nárello about the stables as she passed by, so she ticked that off the list she was keeping in her head. That left decorations...

Laurie noticed a small hobbit bending over them and then turn and ask a group standing nearby for help.

"Hello, good lady. Do you want to help with the decorations?" The hobbit nodded. Laurie motioned to a rather large pile of decorations to the side. "These may be easier for you to handle, being nearer to your height," she said with a kind smile. Laurie then turned to the group the hobbit had spoken to. "You could help me with the taller decorations, if you like."

ElentariGreenleaf

01-15-2003, 08:10 AM

"I ran away when we got near to this village." Said Sofiya. "I hid for a few days and then went to see the port of the grey havens. I did not wish to sail, and I don't think I ever will. This land is too beautiful."

"Oh, what is this talk I hear of a party. Do they need volunteers?" Said Soyiya to Morestel. Sofiya had never been allowed to do "servents" work, and now she was thrilled at the idea of this opportunity. She looked around and noticed that preparation were already under way.

"Are you volunteering to help?" asked Morestel. She was surprised at the elf's question. "I am sure Laurie would be glad of your help." She smiled at her new friend.

"Ok. Where might I find Laurie?" asked Sofiya. She looked about. She could not tell who was Laurie, as she new nothing about this organiser. "Could you take me to her?"

[ January 15, 2003: Message edited by: ElentariGreenleaf ]

Sapphire_Flame

01-15-2003, 11:32 AM

Morestel looked around. Everyone seemed to be busy, getting ready for the party that was to be held at the inn. A woman standing nearby turned to Sofiya and Morestel.
"You could help me with the taller decorations, if you like."
"Of course," Morestel said. "I would be glad to help." She stood and went to assist the woman.

[ January 15, 2003: Message edited by: Sapphire_Flame ]

Lumiel

01-15-2003, 11:38 AM

*As Lumiel was setting the cake to be baked,a man asked her to watch his ingredients*

"No problem! I shall guard them with my life!"

*She smiled at the man with a childish grin and laughed at what she said, accentuating her own childish mindset. She turned back to her work and noticed a bag of flour that sat on the edge of the counter near her and was about to fall. Her eyes widened in surprise and she dropped the spatula she was using to spread the cake mix into the large cake-pan and dived for the bag of flour. She caught the bottom just before it hit the floor and a cloud of white went up around her, falling down softly to settle on both Lumiel and the floor.*

"Phew! That was close."

*She stood up and placed the flour back safely on the counter and looked down at herself. She looked like a young ghostly elven maiden come back from the dead. As she thought of this, she took a zombie-like pose and spoke in a dead, even voice*

"Rrrrggghh....I am Lumiel, I've come for the cake of the dead!"

*She laughed again, this time louder at her own joke, corny as it was. She tried to brush off some of the flour but to no avail, it was stuck in her shirt and leggings as well as her long-brown hair. Although her overall appearance now seemed dimmed, her eyes shone brightly through to the world around her, like stars against the dim blackness of the night. She shrugged and went back to setting the cake mix*

"Let's see....should I just put frosting on the top? Or maybe some fruit...Oh yes! Strawberries and blueberries would be wonderful! But I have to save room for a picture of that Frodo and Sam and his family that they were talking about. Wish I knew what they looked like...well, I can worry about that later when I decorate the cake."

*As she finished pouring the cake mix into the large pan, she looked around for a vacant oven and found one nearby. She carefully brought the pan near the oven and started the oven up. After a few minutes, it was ready and she gently laid the pan inside, closing the door. She looked around for something to help her get the flour off of her while she was waiting for the cake to bake.

Her eyes fell on a semi-clean rag and she picked it up, wiping off her face and trying to dust off the flour. For the most part, this worked but smudges of it were still on her face and clothing but she no longer looked like a ghost. While waiting for the cake to bake, she got herself a glass of water and watched the people come and go, keeping an eye on the ingredients for the man as she promised. She finished her water, and went to check on the cake.

She opened the oven door, and the wonderful aroma of a freshly-baked cake wafted out. She took oven-mitts and put them on, carefully taking out the cake. As she let the cake cool off, she went in search of frosting and fruit. After her quest for these items was complete, she began to decorate the cake. First she spread a smooth, creamy layer of white frosting over the entire cake, which was large, considering how many people it had to serve. Once the frosting was spread evenly over the cake, she did a border with the frosting out of light blue. She smile, pleased with her work. Then she took some strawberries and laid them with care at the corners of and around the border of the cake. She took blueberries and did the same on the cake. She sighed, feeling tired from all the hard work she had put into the cake*

"Well, now I just need to put a picture on...Well, I can do that with frosting, it shouldn't be too difficult, but I don't know what they look like!"

*She turned and looked around the kitchen for someone who would know what they looked like. Her eyes came upon no one, to her dismay and she peeked out of the kitchen to the tavern beyond. She saw several elves, but felt nervous about asking them. She noticed a hobbit who had been in the kitchen before and decided to ask her. She thought back to what she had heard her name was and called over to her*

"Excuse me, Miss Belin? When you get a chance, I need some help with the cake. It's all set, but I don't know what Frodo, Sam, and his family look like. Perhaps you could help me?"

*As she looked up, she saw a picture with a plaque beneath it which read FRODO BAGGINS. Nearby was a similar picture of Bilbo and of Sam as well. She smiled and knew what she had to do. She called out to Belin*

"Nevermind Belin, I've got it covered!"

*She ran back into the kitchen and put all her efforts into the final decorations of the cake. When she was done, she was covered in bits of frosting and flour, but the cake had the spitting image of Frodo, Bilbo, Sam, and many hobbit children on it. With that, she brought the cake out and put it on the bar. She sat down in a chair and sighed*

"Whew, kitchen work was never so hard before! I'm not sure if I'll have the heart to eat the cake after all that work! But why else make it if you can't eat it?"

*She smiled and sat by the bar, watching the others around her. The Feast was going to be something!*

[ January 15, 2003: Message edited by: Lumiel ]

[ January 15, 2003: Message edited by: Lumiel ]

Nurumaiel

01-15-2003, 02:38 PM

Don and Rie hurried outside to go on the walk Cami suggested. Don kept finding flowers and picking them, while looking wistfully at the beautiful flowers that grew in the gardens. "Those flowers are more beautiful than these wild ones," said Don.

"No, they're not. Even those these flowers are wild they can still be beautiful. You're wild," said Rie.

"And ugly."

Rie looked closely at the hobbit girl. She certainly wasn't beautiful, but her brown curls that crowned her head wildly, her large and soft brown eyes like a deer's, her rosy cheeks... this child was beautiful in her own special way.

Rie took one of the blue flowers from Don's hands and stuck it in the girl's hair. "That little flower is beautiful, and so are you."

A smile came to Don's face, but all she did was pick another flower from the ground.

* * *

Nuru finished her task, still humming an elven song to herself, named Trî I Taur. She was very excited about seeing Bilbo again, and would do anything, if only she would be allowed to join him in the feast.

"And Sam, and all the little children!" said Nuru, her eyes sparkling at the thought. "He has a few new ones that weren't there when I was here last, I think. Elo! it will be so wonderful to see him again!"

Filigod glîren i gelaidh,
govannen na athan glîr...

She began to sing the song once again as she half danced over to Cami to ask what she could do next.

Orual

01-15-2003, 03:08 PM

Rie climbed up on the ladder, armed with a broom, humming snatches of a tune that Nuru had taught her amid threats to the cobwebs. "Ooh," she muttered, rubbing her head. She had hit it on the rafters. Gazing up bitterly at the offending piece of wood, she noticed another cobweb. A big one. A very big one.

She looked down quickly, then pulled herself up. She dearly hoped that Don wasn't watching and getting ideas. Slowly she picked her way through the rafters, inching toward the offending cobweb. "Carefully, Talmérië," she murmured to herself. "Wouldn't want to slip and land on somebody's head!"

She laughed, and continued making her way to the cobweb. She had almost gotten to it when her left leg slipped off the rafters, followed quickly by her right leg. She gave a little cry and braced herself for the fall.

But instead of the floor, she found herself, upon impact, in somebody's arms. "May I help you?" a voice asked her cheerfully. He was an Elf. She stared blankly at him for a moment, then blushed and regained her composure.

"Thank you," she said as he put her down. "Um, thank you quite a bit," she added, looking up at the height of the rafters. "I'm Rie," she continued, regaining her manners. "Talmérië, that is, daughter of Almarien. Thank you for saving me! I don't think we've met, though. You are...?" Rie dusted her palms off from the rafter dust, and waited for his answer.

Nuranar

01-15-2003, 03:27 PM

'My name is Tarondo,' he introduced himself. 'My sister Luinien is over there with Mistress Cami.' He surveyed the ceiling with an air of great interest.

'There's definitely a lot to do; if you have another broom I can assist you. Would you like me to reach the highest ones, or shall I continue to spot you?' he asked, his eyes twinkling.

Sword Maiden Of The Shire

01-15-2003, 04:44 PM

Champignonne looked at the two hobbits in wonder. They were so nice to her. and they sacrificed their mushroomsfor her benefit!
"Well, " said she, "I am alone. But I must know your names first. You both look so familiar, but I've never really been out of my neighborhood." She looked at both in turn. Before they could answer her, she turned around, hearing something about "Baggins" and "party". She had heard the name before.

"Before you say anything," she said, seeing the quizzotic looks on their faces, "What is this party? Who is'Baggins'? Do you know him?" Mistakenly she thought that it was only one person; she had only heard one name. Champignonne did not even shy away at this. Her Took curiosity cancelled out her shyness.

"Well," replied Merry "As for your first question, "I'm Merry and this is my cousin Pippin" he said gesturing to her. "And the Bagginses, from what I can gather are coming here for a feast or party of some sort."

"Masters Frodo, Samwise and Bilbo, I believe" sid Pippin looking wide-eyed at all the hustle and bustle about the Inn. They sat down beside her, "They were all involved in The War Of The Ring, many tales now tell about them." said Merry lowering his voice a little "But aside from that," continued Pippin, "They are very nice folk. We've only met them once or twice."

The rich smell of freshly baked cake wafted over to where they were sitting. Merry inhaled deeply "Ahhhh! If only I were helping in the kitchen!" "Why, so you could eat the Inn out of house and home before the guests even arrive?" asked Pippin laughing at him. "Your're right though, I'd like to help, it is definately for a good cause. Maybe there are some last minute things we can do."

Merry nodded. "Would you care to join us Champignonne?" he asked.....

[ January 15, 2003: Message edited by: Sword Maiden Of The Shire ]

Child of the 7th Age

01-15-2003, 05:04 PM

As Cami took a final swing about the Inn, everything seemed to be in a state of readiness for the festivities that were expected to begin later that evening. All the cobwebs were gone, the floor carefully scrubbed, and garlands and other decorations festively hung. The cake was decorated, and sitting on the top of the bar.

Cami could see that Aelfwine and several others had returned from the market, with all the ingredients they would need for the dinner. Several Elves and Hobbbits were back in the kitchens putting different dishes together and cooking them over the open fire or in the brick oven that was built into the hearth. They should be done in just a little while. She would keep the meal warming until it was time to be served, but it truly looked as if everything was under control.

So many people had helped that Cami couldn't even remember all the names: Rie, Nuru, Don, Belin, Luinien, Aelfwine, Arawyn, Tarondo, Lumiel, Morestel, Sofiya, Narello, and Snowdrop. She was sure there were others whom she had missed, and she hoped they would forgive her feeble brain, since she was not too good recalling names. It was a good thing they'd cooked up so much food, since so many were going to be dropping by for dinner.

Cami clambered up on the nearest table, and called out in her loudest voice, "I need your attention please. Everyone helping with the preparations, you've done a wonderful job. I don't know how to thank you. I think we can all take a break now. I'd like everyone to return to your home or your room at the Inn and slip into something festive. Make sure you have comfortable shoes for dancing, and, if you have an instrument, bring it along."

"Then we'll all reassemble here in a few hours and the festivities will begin, as I expect our guests will be arriving then."

Sapphire_Flame

01-15-2003, 05:16 PM

"I need your attention please. Everyone helping with the preparations, you've done a wonderful job. I don't know how to thank you. I think we can all take a break now. I'd like everyone to return to your home or your room at the Inn and slip into something festive. Make sure you have comfortable shoes for dancing, and, if you have an instrument, bring it along."

"Then we'll all reassemble here in a few hours and the festivities will begin, as I expect our guests will be arriving then."

Morestel hurriedly ran up to her room to change. This would be fun, she'd never been to a party before. She didn't really have anything festive to change into, so she just pulled on a plain, red and black dress, slightly worn.

She hurried out of her room. She paused for a moment at the top of the stairs to compose herself, then went down to join the group.

[ January 16, 2003: Message edited by: Sapphire_Flame ]

Artalwen

01-15-2003, 05:19 PM

Arawyn let out a small burp after she finished her meal, and quickly covered her mouth, as if she was shocked that she had burped. She then got up and went into the kitchen, to see if she could be of any help before the party was to begin.

As she opened the door, she narrowly missed swinging it into another elf, who was busy trying to gather things to decorate a beautifully made cake that Arawyn assumed she made.

"That looks great!" Arawyn complemented, trying to create conversation. The elf looked up, noticing Arawyn, and smiled, yet quickly looked back down at her work. Arawyn noticed she was trying to design people, no, hobbits, on the cake.
"Hey! That must be a picture of the hobbits that this party is for! That looks really good!" Arawyn said praisingly.

"Naw, I don't even know what they may look like...I'm trying, though." The elf replied, concentrating on her work. Arawyn thought it might be best to let her be, for she herself did not know what the hobbits looked like either. So she went backwards, out of the kitchen, and sighed. She didn't know what she could do, with all the help already needed around. She spotted a chair near the fire that was empty, and went over to fill it.

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

Carie noticed that the elf didn't notice her well, and her shyness overtook her again. She backed up, and quietly went over to an empty table, and sat down. She noticed a newspaper laying down, and picked it up, and with nothing better to do, began to read.

Lumiel

01-15-2003, 05:23 PM

*As Lumiel listened to Cami, she realized that she certainly could do with a bath and a change of clothes. Unfortunately, she didn't have a room or any clothes to change into. She thought for a moment then called out to Cami*

"Excuse me Cami, but I was wondering if I could rent a room. As you can see, I'm in no shape for a party!"

*She showed Cami her flour-covered clothing and Cami could see her smudged, frosting-flecked face*

"And also, I don't have anything to wear, except these clothes I am wearing now. Perhaps you know someone I could borrow something from?"

Artalwen

01-15-2003, 05:26 PM

I'd like everyone to return to your home or your room at the Inn and slip into something festive. Make sure you have comfortable shoes for dancing, and, if you have an instrument, bring it along."

Carie overheard the speech, and got excited. A party! So that's why everyone was cleaning in a hurry. She figured she must pay more attention next time. She overheard the instrument part also, and perked up. She could bring her violin! Carie quickly got up from the table and excited the green dragon, knowing she must change into one of her better party dresses, and retrieve her violin.

Frodess

01-15-2003, 05:44 PM

"Well," replied Merry "As for your first question, "I'm Merry and this is my cousin Pippin" he said gesturing to her. "And the Bagginses, from what I can gather are coming here for a feast or party of some sort."

"Masters Frodo, Samwise and Bilbo, I believe" sid Pippin looking wide-eyed at all the hustle and bustle about the Inn. They sat down beside her, "They were all involved in The War Of The Ring, many tales now tell about them." said Merry lowering his voice a little "But aside from that," continued Pippin, "They are very nice folk. We've only met them once or twice."

The rich smell of freshly baked cake wafted over to where they were sitting. Merry inhaled deeply "Ahhhh! If only I were helping in the kitchen!" "Why, so you could eat the Inn out of house and home before the guests even arrive?" asked Pippin laughing at him. "Your're right though, I'd like to help, it is definately for a good cause."

Merry nodded. "Would you care to join us Champignonne?" he asked.....

"Yes, I think I shall, for I am anxious to help those who have helped me." She looked around her again, as those who are shy sometimes do. "But it seems as though they are almost finished. What can we do?"

With that, she gazed sadly at her hairy, but strangely cute feet. She felt uncomfortable again, and wondered that, even though she could fix a mushroom soup that could rival many a Hobbitonian, if she would be exiled for the reputation that these two seemed to have. She almost smilled at the thought of their getting kicked out because of this Merry's incredible appitite. She looked back at the hobbits, feeling abnormally comfortable in their prescence. She shrugged her shoulders then waited. . .

[ January 15, 2003: Message edited by: Frodess ]

Dain Ironfoot

01-15-2003, 06:22 PM

Cami was startled by the sound of knocking at the front door of the Inn. She went to answer it and was surprised to see a dwarf standing on the steps.

"Is this the Green Dragon Inn?" the dwarf asked. His pulled the hood of his cloak back to reveal bright blue eyes and an enormously long beard.

"Excuse me, Miss. But you wouldn't be Miss Cami, would you?"

"Y-y-yes," stammered the hobbit back. She had no idea who this was. As far as Cami knew, she had never been friends with any dwarves, not that she wouldn't relish the opportunity.

"My name, as you see, is Dain Ironfoot, and many years ago, when Bilbo went out adventuring with Gandalf, he and I met at the battle of the Five Armies. Actually, I'm Thorin's cousin. Cami wracked her brain, and smiled as she remembered reading the name in the Red Book of Westmarch."

"Miss Cami, I understand there will be a party here and Mister Baggins, the older one that is, will be in attendence. I would be much obliged if you'd let me stay. I haven't seen him in many a year and I think he might enjoy seeing me."

"Of course, come in." She opened the door and set him down at a table. "We'd be most happy to have you join us."

She brought him a pint of ale and continued with her work.

Orual

01-15-2003, 06:40 PM

Rie flushed again at Tarondo's joke. "I'm not usually that clumsy," she insisted, "I just...slipped." She laughed. "But I wouldn't say no to some help--there's no shortage of brooms in this Inn!"

Just as she said that, Cami announced a break for all the workers. Rie turned back to Tarondo and shrugged. "Well, perhaps later," she said. Out of the corner of her eye she saw Don standing by the wall, looking uncomfortable. "It's been a pleasure to meet you, and maybe you could show me some cobweb-cleaning tips after the break, but I have somebody that I need to talk to right now, if you'll excuse me."

Tarondo did, and she went over to Don. "Feeling all right?" she asked.

"Fine," Don replied.

Rie studied her for a moment in silence. Then she nodded. "Want to go for a walk? It's nice outside."

"Oh...oh, sure," Don said, and Rie led her out of the Inn.

They hurried outside to go on the walk. Don kept finding flowers and picking them, while looking wistfully at the beautiful flowers that grew in the gardens. "Those flowers are more beautiful than these wild ones," said Don.

"No, they're not. Even those these flowers are wild they can still be beautiful. You're wild," said Rie.

"And ugly."

Rie looked closely at the hobbit girl. She certainly wasn't beautiful, but her brown curls that crowned her head wildly, her large and soft brown eyes like a deer's, her rosy cheeks... this child was beautiful in her own special way.

Rie took one of the blue flowers from Don's hands and stuck it in the girl's hair. "That little flower is beautiful, and so are you."
A smile came to Don's face, but all she did was pick another flower from the ground.

[ January 16, 2003: Message edited by: Orual ]

Everdawn

01-15-2003, 07:45 PM

Snowdrop who had gone home to change came bustling through the door behind the dwarf and bumped into him "oh!" she squieled "I am so sorry!" she hurried off to behind the bar.

"Cami! I brought over some more kegs of ale... you do know how Bilbo likes his ale!" she laughed.

Umbria the elf slowly decended down the stairs "Cami, I understand there is and elf who should sing tonight, what is an elven song without a harper... I do not wish to eat or drink.. i will play for you tonight. If you do not mind. My liege, Bebberyn of Dol Amroth will not be joining me here tonight."

Snowdrop looked at the elf who had spoken to Cami and thought to herself "she looks like she could do with a good White wine."

Sword Maiden Of The Shire

01-15-2003, 07:51 PM

"Maybe there are some last minute things we can do" Pippin replied to Champignonne. She rose and walked over to Cami "Excuse me, Miss, but my cousin and our friend over there are willing to help if there are any more small preparations to be done."

The Inn looked very different, thought Merry. Almost every rafter was dressed in bright colours and already guests where awaiting the others' arrival.

Envinyatar

01-15-2003, 08:04 PM

The three men had returned from a successful hunt. Aelfwine held a large basket filled with seven large whole salmon, and one freshwater eel. Nárello’s basket was filled to bursting with big, thick mushrooms, while Derufin’s held a precious amount of the smaller pale yellow frondy sort.

Once back to the kitchen, they swung into action. Aelfwine cleaned the salmon, leaving them whole and stuffed them with a savory dressing of herbs and onions and day old bread. He placed them in two large oiled baking pans and popped them in the oven. They would be done by the time the guests arrived.

Derufin made three large eel pies, filled with lovely chunks of eel and onion, potato and carrot layered with finely chopped herbs, all cradled in flaky pastry crusts. On the top crust, to vent the steam, he incised the picture of the dragon from the Inn sign.

With the little yellow mushrooms he had brought back, he layered them with thinly sliced potatos in another large oiled pan. And put them in the other oven until the top was crusty, and nicely browned.

Lastly, Nárello cleaned his find and cut off the woody stems. He sliced them with a sure hand into thick long sections and dipped them in beaten egg and then dredged them in seasoned cornmeal. Derufin had heated up the oil in the pan and once the salmon and pies were almost done, they began to fry them up nice and crispy. Once done, they covered them loosely with a clean towel and placed them in the warming oven.

Some of the other guests had agreed to clean up after the cooks were done, and now they came in, rags in hand and cleared away all evidence of the assault on the kitchen.

Derufin washed his hands in the kitchen sink, and went upstairs to change clothes for the party tonight.

Child of the 7th Age

01-15-2003, 08:10 PM

Cami looked at the last two hobbits standing in front of her who were offering to help. She thought carefully and then replied, "Yes, I've one more important task to be done."

She turned around and went to a large locked storage closet. Then she pulled out several clean, white tablecloths and handed them to Pippin, "Put these on the tables. Then you can add the cutlery and plates. And thanks for all your help."

theWhiteLady

01-15-2003, 08:13 PM

Morestel and Laurie had the decorations up in no time, with the hobbit from before helping greatly below. Laurie stood back and surveyed her work with a smile of pride; the inn was brightly festooned with streamers and hanging lights. Perfect for a party of some magnificence, as she devined Bilbo and Frodo's party to be.

Cami interrupted her thoughts with the announcement to get ready, and Laurie realized she was still wearing the travel stained dress she had worn to Hobbiton and back. She thanked Morestel for all her help and excused herself before disappearing upstairs to change and freshen up.

[ January 15, 2003: Message edited by: theWhiteLady ]

Everdawn

01-15-2003, 08:19 PM

Snowdrop spun around at the sound of Pippin's voice.. "Pippin! I had no idea you were here!.. its me Snowdrop! how are you?"

she smiled and continued to clean the glasses behind the sink. "you and Merry are coming tonight arent you?" she asked.

Sword Maiden Of The Shire

01-15-2003, 08:21 PM

Pippin took the table cloths from Cami and turned to Merry and Champignonne "Well, we heard her" she said starting to unfold them. "I'll get the cutlery" said Merry heading towards the kitchen.

"Do you want to split the pile in two?" Pippin asked Champignonne. "It'll get done faster."She suddenly heard Snowdrop and smiled "Yes, I have'nt seen you in a while. Of course Merry and I are coming tonight!" "Do you really think that we would turn down a party?"...

[ January 15, 2003: Message edited by: Sword Maiden Of The Shire ]

[ January 15, 2003: Message edited by: Sword Maiden Of The Shire ]

Carrûn

01-15-2003, 08:21 PM

Nárello was tired and a bit anoyed. He had stopped by the stables on the way back in but they already had ample help. Somehow he had managed to end up working in the kitchen anyway. Still, it hadn't been that bad and he had enjoyed the chance to walk outside. He did have to admit he was good at finding food, spending most of his time alone outdoors. He grinned remembering the time a hobbit lad had challenged him to a mushroom gathering contest and the look on his face when they compared finds.

He shuffled over to a nearby sink and washed himself up a bit. He returned to a seat by one of the many windows and sat looking outside. He thought jealously for a while about Awyrgan roaming free. And here I am stuck here like a child. You are a child. Only in body, that which I have seen would make some old. His thoughts brightened when he realized that he would get a chance to catch a glimpse of some of the heros of the War of the Ring. The few chances he got he had pressured Awrygan for details of all that had passed yet Awyrgan said little, commenting only that his uncle had been a captain of men in the service of the Lord Aragorn and that Awyrgan had stood over him as he died outside the city of Minas Tirith. His name was an H-something but Nárello couldn't remember. The boy smirked. All of Awrygan's conversations end in death or sorrow. He absently brushed several traces of dust and stray hairs off of his black garments and went back to watching the proceedings in the Inn.

[ January 15, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

piosenniel

01-15-2003, 10:04 PM

Pio had spent a pleasant evening yesterday at Amaranthas’ house. The food had been simple, the fire small and cozy, and the bottle of wine she had brought soon found itself on the hob being turned into mulled wine with the addition of a few secret, and jealously guarded ingredients. Amaranthas was not one to stand on ceremony, she had the ‘young sprout’ of an Elf in to the kitchen and let her help with the shelling of the winter peas and the fixing up of a tasty bit of fresh trout and some taters.

‘The great grandson brought this by today.’ She said holding up the silvery fish by the tail and expertly filleting it, while Pio sliced the taters and fried them up, then set the peas to the side of the stove, to steam tender and crisp. ‘Here!’ Let me keep watch over those taters and peas, while you get to crisping these up in a little oil.’ She pointed to the four small fillet sections on the sideboard. ‘Dredge ‘em in a little flour. The oil’s hot in the skillet, shouldn’t take too long.’

The dinner was delicious, eaten at the small parquet table which served both as a dining table and a place for Amaranthas to set her collection of antique wine bottles. ‘Drank most of the contents myself – back in my younger days!’

Pio smiled and commented on what a good ccok Amaranthas was, a smile playing about her lips. ‘Now don’t go getting uppity on me, Miss Pio.’ cackled the elderly Hobbit. ‘I’ve done my share of cooking. I figured if I supply the ingredients you young pups can fix them up.’ Pio nodded and took a swallow of sweet tea. No sense in irritating the old dear with the fact that she was lifetimes older than she.

Once done, they did up the few dishes and retired to the living room, seating themselves in two comfortable chairs by the fire. Pio stretched out her legs, having taken off her boots, and let the flames toast her toes.

‘Feet tend to swell up, don’t they.’ commented the Hobbit, her gaze taking in the size of the Elf’s belly. ‘How much longer til the baby, dear?’ Not long was what she was thinking to herself, by the size of her. She gasped when Pio told her it would be another six months, and that the baby would be twins.

‘Six months!’ Amaranthas put her hand on the Elf gauging the size of the babies. ‘Those must be big babies, the both of them, for you to be only three months along!’ Pio laughed delightedly, moving the Hobbit’s hand to where one of them lay kicking against her side. ‘No, they are normal sized as far as I can tell. Elves carry their children for a full year before giving birth, so I am half-way there.’

‘Well, isn’t that amazing!’ said the Hobbit, patting the Elf gently. ‘I guess you’re never too old to learn new things, eh?’ She reached for the mulled wine and poured them each a generous portion.

The evening passed in pleasant conversation. No topic or person in the Shire was considered off limits for Amaranthas dissection. Pio settled in to her chair and let her talk on, throwing a comment in now and then, though she scarcely knew who or what was being talked about. ‘What a bright, sharp mind.’ she thought to herself. ‘I should come more often to visit her.’

Amaranthas’ rapier wit now fell on the Baggins family. Pio sat up as she heard the mention of familiar names and tried to follow along as best she could. Cami had gone over this history innumerable times, but always in tones of great respect. Amaranthas, Pio was finding out, had a totally different opinion concerning them.

‘Not too bad, the lot of them, came the final verdict by Amaranthas as she poured herself another cup of wine. ‘Down to earth sorts, except for those ones that think too highly of themselves. Good party throwers, generous with the wine and ale.’ She fixed Pio with a beady eye. ‘The strange ones though are those ones with the Tookish blood – wanderers and daydreamers. Too eccentric by Shire standards.’ She cackled wickedly, expressing her opinion of such standards. ‘My younger days,’ she said, staring into the fire, ‘I’d have given my eye teeth to be off wandering with one of them.’

It was getting late, and Pio excused herself, saying she should get back to the Inn and let Amaranthas take her rest. ‘You’ll do nothing of the sort, Miss Pio.’ came the Hobbit’s firm voice. ‘I was expecting you would stay over.’ She peeked through the drawn curtain. ‘It’s too dark for you to be going back by yourself. And as for my rest, I’m old – I’ve had plenty of rest in my time. Long as I’ve got such good company, I intend to stay awake and enjoy it.’

Pio and she sat up late, making small talk and just enjoying each others company. When Amaranthas began to nod off, Pio gently escorted her to her room, and then found the way to hers. The bed was freshly made up and surprisingly comfortable, though the Elf had to curl up a bit to fit in it.

Her last thought, before sleep claimed her, was that tomorrow she would see if she could persuade Amaranthas to come back to Cami’s party at the Inn. It would be interesting to see the elderly Hobbit take the measure of the guests there.

Nuranar

01-15-2003, 11:42 PM

Upstairs in her room, Luinien hummed as she brushed her hair. Watching carefully in the mirror, she carefully extricated each piece of hay that glowed golden in the warm lamplight. She giggled at the recollection of the morning’s fracas in the hayloft. I sure owe him one!

Finally, fully de-hayed, her hair shimmered bluely in a smooth black stream down her back. ‘Too bad I can’t leave it down,’ Luinien told her reflection. ‘But it is far too hot for dancing!’ She braided it into two braids, her fingers nimble with years of practice, and wound them about her head. The heavy tresses encircled her head like a snake of jet.

When Tarondo knocked and walked in, he found his sister surveying herself critically in the glass. In her simple gown, of a deep blue that seemed to have trapped the luminescence of the twilight sky, she was in truth the Blue Maiden of her name.

‘Come on,’ he said gently. ‘We must not be late.’ He gave her his arm and escorted her down the stairs into the common room.

[ January 16, 2003: Message edited by: Nuranar ]

Child of the 7th Age

01-16-2003, 01:24 AM

Cami gazed into the mirror straightening her collar, and slipping a small lace shawl over her shoulders. She ran her hand through her brown curls that were threatening to bounce off wildly in all directions. Even as a child, her hair had been like that, so it was unlikely to change at this stage in her life.

She knew that, for most of the visitors to the Inn, the high point of the evening would be the arrival of Frodo and Samwise. Ever since the Ring quest, they had received deserved praise and attention.

But for Cami, tonight meant something different. It was the first time in a long while that she would be able to speak with Bilbo. Cami could finally thank her teacher for all that he had done for her. She had been a child from a modest farm family with a deep love of poetry and books and Elves, but with little prospects for learning about any of those things. It had been Bilbo who had recognized that spark in her eye and taken her under his wing.

Cami's memory ranged back to the time when she was an eight-year old child learning her letters and numbers. Samwise had been just one year younger. The two of them had studied in Bilbo's sitting room, surreptitiously kicking each other under the table. Samwise had gone on to a position of respect and renown within the Shire, but it was Cami who had inherited Bilbo's fierce love of ancient lore and legend. Like Bilbo, she was always poking about in archives and looking for manuscripts that would throw some light on the past, to help her understand the fire that had once kindled the hearts of those who came before her.

Bilbo had nurtured her love for Elves and dragons and taught her to value adventures. But then they had parted ways. He had gone off to Rivendell for his retirement. And she had eventually left the Shire, journeying to Minas Tirith. Finally, there had been the voyage of the Lonely Star, the undoubted turning point in her life, with its miracle of time travel.

Cami knew that Gandalf had already spoken to Bilbo about her adventures on the Star, her love for Maura, and how she had become a wise woman and leader to her people during their years of wandering. The time she was spending in the Great Dragon Inn helping Piosenniel was only a brief interlude before she would need to return to Greenwood, and her own family. She had six children of her own to care for, most of whom had been left orphaned by the sinking of Numenor and the tragedy of the hobbits' imprisonment in the Tombs. She would need every ounce of her courage and skill to ensure that her people would make it through those troubled years. Otherwise there would be no migration to the Shire, and everything they had here in the Inn would simply disappear. That idea was disconcerting.

How strange that this Inn should be a portal between the ages, drawing together people from various times and places. How else could she explain her own presence here, or that of Frodo and Bilbo, both of whom had departed for the Havens a number of years ago?

But she knew she could not stay here forever. She would wait until Piosenniel gave birth to the twins and would then return to her own family who awaited her in the year 1000 of the Third Age. She would make sure to find Pio a trustworthy person to replace her in the Inn.

Like Bilbo, she'd had her share of joy and sorrow in life. Her fingers strayed to the green gemstone which she always wore about her neck. That had been the gift of her beloved Maura Took.

Cami was usually cheerful and went about her duties in the Inn with a welcoming smile. Few saw the sorrow that still tugged at her heart. She'd seen so many Elves and Men slink into the Dragon wearing great black cloaks and shielding their faces from the light, all complaining about one thing or another that had gone wrong in their lives.

Cami wondered how many of these gloomy figures had been commanded to leave behind the one person who made their lives worth living. Gandalf had warned Cami that, no matter how much she and Maura loved each other, they could never make their life together, since this would only pierce the fabric of time and let the Shadow slip through from one age to the next, stirring up even more trouble than before.

She had no regrets about what had happened in Beleriand. Years had passed, and her feelings about the hobbit had not changed. She only wished that, in their little time together, they had managed to wed.

It had been a while since she'd thought about these things. Bilbo's impending arrival had brought all of that forcibly back to her. And so had the strange note that had come to her from Gandalf. She looked down at the one section that had so compelled her attention, "Bilbo and I have been talking at length regarding your particular circumstances, and we have come upon an idea that we need to discuss. He will speak with you about it upon his arrival at the Dragon. But think carefully before you give your assent. This thing we propose carries both great joy and great sorrow. Your heart must be absolutely certain."

Cami did not have the slightest idea what Gandalf was referring to, but every time she read the note, chills ran though her bones.

Suddenly, she heard the silver bells tinkle at the door of the Inn. She leaned out her window and saw a party of three male hobbits camped on the front doorstep. She bolted out of her room and raced downstairs.

It was Sam who came up to her first, "Cami Goodchild, it's been too long. I've missed you." He placed a kiss on her curls. "Rosie and the children will be here in a little while. It's not easy with thirteen to dress and get ready."

Frodo reached over to shake hands. Cami had usually felt shy with him, and this evening was no different. But, as always, his behavior was gracious and gentle.

Frodo went over to Sam's side and the two hobbits began introducing themselves to the others in the room.

Finally, it was Bilbo's turn. He held Cami at arm's length, placing a hand on each of her shoulders. He looked her up and down, and then smiled. "You look good. Your eyes are bright. I was worried about you, but Gandalf was right. You've made your peace."

A smile escaped Cami's lips. "You too Bilbo. You look very rested. To be truthful, better than the last time I saw you." And miraculously that was true. Her teacher's hair was white and his steps faltering, but his mind was sharp and clear.

He looked backed impishly at her, "See what a change of scenery will do, especially if that scenery happens to be in the far West!"

Bilbo took Cami's hand in his. "We'll talk by ourselves later for a bit. You received Gandalf's note?" Cami shook her head yes, wondering what all this was about, but she was too polite to say anything just yet.

Bilbo smiled, "For now though, I'd like to have a bite to eat. The food smells wondeful and I'd also like to meet some of these good folk who've helped you prepare all this."

[ January 16, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

piosenniel

01-16-2003, 02:00 AM

It had been an interesting ride back to the Inn. They had left Amaranthas’ house in the very early evening, riding back at an easy pace on Rochfalmar. What was supposed to have been a short trip had soon turned into one which threatened to eat up more time than miles.

Pio steadied the tiny Hobbit before her on the withers of her steed as they rode down the dirt path to the Great East Road. Amaranthas had a firm grip on her silver headed cane and she would tap lightly on Pio’s leg when she wanted to point out some area of interest. The elf would halt the horse, and wait as the Hobbit sifted through her long store of memories, dredging up some particularly interesting fact concerning the place or object pointed out by the tip of her cane.

This would not have slowed them down so much, except for the fact that interspersed with these points of historical interest were the excursions to the doors of the Hobbits who lived along the path, the ones with whom Amaranthas was acquainted. And to be sure, having lived so long in this part of the shire on this particulare lane, the Hobbit knew every door and every person who had ever dwelt behind it.

‘Pull up there, Miz Pio!’ she said, pointing to a red door. ‘I want Salvia Bolger to see me on this fine horse. Her tongue wags faster than a pup’s tail when it smells its mama coming. She’ll be sure to let half the Shire know the who and what and when of my arrival at her door.’ She cackled at the thought, pounding firmly on the door with her cane. ‘I can’t wait to hear how she embroiders this one.’

In time, and with much cajoling by the Elf, Pio and Amaranthas arrived at the Green Dragon. Pio dismounted first, and reach up her arms to help the woman down. ‘Light as a cloud.’ she thought. ‘How does such a tiny body have so much energy!’ She gave ‘Falmar’s reins to the stable boy, asking him if the guests had arrived yet.

‘A few minutes ago, Mistress Pio.’ he replied, slipping the horse a slice of dried apple. ‘Bilbo, Frodo, and Sam.’ ‘What about Rose and the children? she asked. Miz Rose is over there.’ he said, pointing with his finger to the wide, grassy sward just beyond the stable. ‘She wanted to run some energy off the younger ones before they came in to dinner.’

Pio escorted Amaranthas up the steps and into the Inn. The warmth of the Common Room hit them as they opened the door, followed by the sights and smells of the party. Cami had done a wonderful job! The room was festive and the buffet tables to the side of it groaned with the savory dishes arranged so beautifully on it. It was a feast for the eyes and nose, and for the ears, as the lovely strains of an Elven flute could be heard just below the noise of the party.

Amaranthas stood staring over at the three Hobbits who were the center of attention. She nudged Pio, and pointed to the two younger ones who were moving from group to group with an easy grace. ‘That’s Samwise Gamgee.’ she said, a flick of her chin indicating the stouter Hobbit with the friendly smile on his face. ‘and that one over there is Frodo Baggins. Looks like he could do with eating some of this fine food here – too thin, don’t you think, dear?’

Pio looked at Frodo, and her heart went out to him. Thin, yes, but more like a shell taken from the sea, rubbed so thin by the waves, the light shines through and around it, finding no resistance. Caught in a moment of grace, she placed her right hand over her heart and bowed slightly to him. His eyes caught the movement and he looked toward her briefly with his clear gaze, and nodded.

It was one of those moments for her when the boundaries between lives fell away and she was humbled that in her small way she had been allowed to be part of the long history which had come to fruition through him.

Her thoughts were interrupted by a whisper from her companion. ‘Let’s go over and talk to Bilbo. He’s one of the more interesting Baggins. I’ll introduce you to him soon as that young chit who’s with him now lets him be.’ Pio glanced to where Amaranthas pointed with her cane. She laughed at ‘the young chit’, Cami, speaking with the white haired, kind faced, distinguished looking elder Hobbit.

Seeing their heads so close together, her mind quested out, gathering in the tenor of their thoughts. Cami was happy at seeing her old friend and teacher, though below it all ran sorrow of a sort, like a small silvered river, now seen, now sliding beneath the rocks, hidden. A glint of green on a silver chain peeked out from beneath the Hobbit’s shawl. ‘Ah!’ thought Pio, tucking the memory away for now.

She saw him take Cami’s hand in his, and her mind sought the words which followed, and then the thoughts layered beneath them. She gasped, and would have fallen, had not Amaranthas urged her down to a chair that stood near them. ‘Are you all right, Miz Pio?’ she asked, her face a mask of concern.

Pio sat stunned, saying nothing. ‘ONE OF YOU NINNIES GET MIZ PIO A DRINK OF COLD WATER!’ she shouted to the young men standing by the buffet table. ‘AND SOON! BEFORE SHE FAINTS DEAD AWAY!’ She rapped on the hardwood floor with her cane, and glared in their direction with a baleful glaze.

[ January 16, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

astarielle

01-16-2003, 03:59 AM

As the rain beat down the door swang open. A dark unkown figure stood in the door way, a bright green light shining from eyes. The stranger walked with long lopping strides towards the bar. Carefully lifting off her cloak an elf appeared.

"I am Astarielle of Rivendell" she said only audiable to the bar tender. "I hav travelled far and need a room. My horse Talhandir waits outside for a stable".

Lumiel

01-16-2003, 05:07 AM

*Lumiel failed to get Cami's attentions but thought nothing of it. She decided to take a room and she would pay for it later. She went up the stairs and found a vacant room, laying her cloak down on the bed. After wasing up, she felt much better. She had no more frosting or flour or any type of cooking ingredient on her.

She sighed with relaxation but realized she had no decent clothes to wear to such a feast. All the others were busy, so she put on her previous clothes and left the tavern, out in search of proper dress for the wonderful evening ahead.

A little while later, she returned, her dark cloak covering what she was wearing and her face now as well. In her arms was a small pile of folded clothes. She ran up the stairs by two into her room and prepared for the evening's feast*

Nuranar

01-16-2003, 08:22 AM

Tarondo was gazing longingly at the feast, trying to settle his growling stomach with the pleasure of anticipation. Suddenly he jumped as a shrill voice pierced the air: ‘ONE OF YOU NINNIES GET MIZ PIO A DRINK OF COLD WATER! AND SOON! BEFORE SHE FAINTS DEAD AWAY!’ He caught a glimpse of Pio, her face dead white, as he dashed to the beverage table.

But Luinien slipped in before him. Filling a glass from one of the water pitchers, she hurried across to the stricken lady. 'Here, Pio! Please drink this!'

Child of the 7th Age

01-16-2003, 09:04 AM

"What happened?" Luinien questioned nervously, looking up towards the older hobbit woman. Her eyes were shadowed with worry, as she took in Pio's form and noticed that the Elf was indeed very pregnant.

Amaranthas nodded her head, "She'll be fine, just fine, young lady. These things happen. Now, move yourself, and let me examine her!" The older hobbit took her cane and abruptly jabbed Luinien's ribs to make her step aside more readily. A quick check of the Elf showed everything to be fine.

In the meanwhile, Piosenniel had accepted the glass and drank a small mouthful of water, before handing it back to the hobbit. The Elf took but an instant to regain her composure and, when she did so, it was with new respect for Bilbo.

Still, this would be a risky venture. Only an island to cling to for a brief moment, and then both must resume their separate journies. There might have been a time when Piosenniel would have urged her friend to wait, to heal, and look again. But that was before her own pledge had been given. Would she 'look again' if some strange doom separated her prematurely from Mithadan's side? Or would she rather wait, trusting to bonds of loyalty and the belief that feelings like these do not come twice within a single lifetime?

In any case, it was not her place to make such decisions for her friend. And, from all outward appearances, Cami had found some measure of peace by focusing on her duties as mother and wise woman, with little interest in searching out another man.

[ January 16, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Envinyatar

01-16-2003, 11:40 AM

Derufin was just two steps down from the top landing when he heard the order ring out for the glass of water. He saw the tiny Hobbit glaring at a group of people near the buffet tables, and heard the imperious thump of her cane against the floor.

A born commander! He watched with a smile as she saw to the seated Elf. Pio seemed recovered now, a thoughtful look on her face as she watched the other Innkeeper, Cami.

He put his concern for the Elf aside, seeing that she was well cared for, and went to inspect the presentation of the foods he had prepared for the party. It all looked wonderful, and smelled even better. His stomach reminded him he had eaten nothing since early morning, and urged him to pick up a plate and fill it.

His hand reached toward one, then a chiding thought pulled it back. Where are my manners, he thought. The guests of honor should go first.

'I suppose you're hungry, young man.' came the comment from behind him. Derufin turned to see a white haired gentleman Hobbit standing behind him, an amused look on his face.

'Bilbo Baggins.' the Hobbit said, with a nod of his head toward the man. 'And if you'll help me fill my plate, you can fill one for yourself, too. Kill two birds with one stone!' The old Hobbit's eyes twinkled merrily.

Derufin introduced himself, remembering first to close his gaping mouth. 'So this was the legendary Bilbo he had heard about!' Picking up two plates, he and Bilbo went down the line, piling their plates from the bounty.

'My! Doesn't this salmon look tasty.' said Bilbo, asking for a small slice of it. 'And look! An eel pie, if my nose is not mistaken. A largish slice of that if you don't mind, Derufin.'

Derufin smiled to himself at the compliment, and escorted Bilbo back to the head table, pouring him a glass of wine before he left him there to the other well wishers.

His own plate, he took over to the table where Pio and the wizened Hobbit sat. 'May I join you ladies?' he asked, with a nod of his head toward them. 'And please, allow me to get some food and drink for the both of you.'

Nurumaiel

01-16-2003, 12:06 PM

Nuru came running out of the kitchen, her eyes sparkling. "Bilbo!" she cried (very un-elf-like) and fell to her knees so she could throw her arms around him.

"Nurumaiel Firithbor!" he laughed. "I didn't know you were in the Shire."

"I've been here for a day now," said Nuru, laughing still and hugging Sam. Then she turned to look at his children. "My, you've all grown!" she said. "And I mean it, too. Elanor, Frodo, Rose, Merry, Pippin, Goldilocks, Hamfast, Daisy, Primrose... well, hullo. You have four more!"

"Bilbo, Ruby, Robin, and Tolman," said Sam, introducing them.

Just then the door was pushed open by a young girl accompanied by a redheaded woman. The girl looked around with a despising face. "Why is there a huge crowd?" she demanded. "Do I look funny, or something?"

"Don..." Rie whispered. "They're not looking at you." She took hold of the girl's shoulders and turned her to face the arrivals.

Don's brown eyes grew large, and she stood there, staring for a while. Then she ran forward and flung herself into Bilbo's arms. "Bilbo!" she said. "Bilbo!"

"Young Don," said Bilbo. "What are you doing here?"

"I'm running away."

"From your parents?" Bilbo was a bit startled. The times he had visited them, teaching Don how to read and write, they had seemed as happy as a family could be. Don loved her parents dearly, and they loved her, as well.

"From my Aunt Donnamira," said Don, a frown coming to her face. "My parents are dead."

Bilbo's face became one of shock, then it clouded over with sorrow.

"You didn't know," said Don, her voice growing fierce. "You didn't know. My aunts said you knew. My aunts said you knew they were dead, but you wouldn't help me. They said you were cruel. They said the time you told me you really liked me, you were just lying. They said you knew!" Tears filled her eyes. "They lied."

"I never lied, Don," said Bilbo.

Don, being the strange child that she was, grew happy again after hearing the truth. But Bilbo was still quite moved. How could her aunts treat the girl this way?

"You are Samwise and Rose," said Don. "I never met you, but I guess I'll meet you now, because you don't look mean like my uncles do."

Then she turned and looked at the children. A silence fell. Don had not seen other children for a very long time. She didn't know what to say. She looked at them all, and then her gaze fell on (the young) Bilbo. "You look like my brother did... my twin brother... when we were your age," she said, her voice trembling. "I miss him."

Don reached out her hand for Rie's, but she didn't realize that Rie wasn't standing next to her, that she had pushed her off alone for her meeting with Bilbo. Instead, her hand grasped Cami's, who was standing very close by. Don looked up, startled, and whispered, "Are you a friend of Bilbo?"

"Yes, I am," said Cami.

"Then I'm your friend," said Don fiercely. "Bilbo only likes nice, good people. That's why my aunts are mean. Because he didn't like them too much." Don dropped Cami's hand and went over to Rie. "Let's go into the party room," she said. "I'll introduce them to you there." She practically dragged Rie over to Bilbo and grabbed his hand with her free one. "Bilbo, this is Rie," she said in a solemn voice. "Rie, this is Bilbo..."

ElentariGreenleaf

01-16-2003, 01:16 PM

Sofiya walked outside. She had seen all the comotion with Pio. What a nice elf she seemed to be. Sofiya had helped with the decorations a little, but the crowds got too much for her. She had never liked crownds.

I can't believe it took me this long to work out who the land lady is thought Sofiya. A pitty I won't be able to meet her. She looked up and down the lane she had now reached. She longed for adventure, but she also wanted to make new friends here.

Maybe, thought the elf. Maybe I should return after the party. Yes. I can help clear up. I'll go for a walk now, and maybe think of where I can start my own adventure.

So Sofiya left the Green Dragon for awhile, dreaming of her own adventure. Maybe she could travel to Rivendell. There were still elves there. But for now she would go nowhere, until she made some more friends.

[ January 16, 2003: Message edited by: ElentariGreenleaf ]

Sword Maiden Of The Shire

01-16-2003, 01:33 PM

Merry, Pippin, and Champignonne had just finished setting the tables when they heard the tinkle of the Inn's bell. They all looked up at the doorway and saw that the guests were finally arriving.

Pippin smiled excitedly at them, as did Merry. They motioned for Champignonne to follow them as they went to greet Frodo.

[ January 16, 2003: Message edited by: Sword Maiden Of The Shire ]

theWhiteLady

01-16-2003, 01:53 PM

Laurie drew out yet another white dress and slipped it over her head. Wearing white was a kind of fetish with her; it had always been her favorite colour back at home in Rohan and she had grown up listening to the tales of other famous "White Women" as she called them in her head: The high queen Galadriel; her own kinsman, Eowyn; and from the oldest stories, Aredhel, Lady of the Noldor. She had always dreamed of being like those famous and beautiful women, brave and strong and valient. Now she was out in a strange land having her own adventures. It was odd that it was at this moment she was reminded most strongly of her homeland... Laurie brushed her golden mane once more, then tossing her head like a proud filly, she left the room and descended down the stairs.

There was a large crowd gathered in the parlour, and Laurie stood to the side for a moment taking in the scene. The guests had arrived, and many of the customers were present, already mingling around. A crowd of little hobbit children surrounded a frail, white-haired hobbit Laurie knew must be Bilbo. He unattached himself from them and made his way to the food where he was met by a man she faintly recognized. Another glance, revealed Pio sitting down and looking rather tired (She works too hard, Laurie thought with concern), and Cami talking merrily with old aquaintences. As Bilbo looked quite occupied with filling his plate, Laurie decided to wait to introduce herself. There was an empty seat nearby, out of the way of the crowd, so she decided to get her own vittles later.

She realized disconcertly she was not sitting alone when a voice said quietly, "Hello." Laurie turned around quickly and was suprised to see a hobbit she didn't recognize sitting right beside her. He was pale, but his eyes were bright and deep. There was wisdom reflected in them; wisdom yes, but pain also. With a shock, Laurie realized who this small hobbit must be.

Sapphire_Flame

01-16-2003, 01:56 PM

Morestel arrived back downstairs just as Frodo, Sam, and Bilbo arrived. Her eyes flew open wide: Frodo Baggins, the Ringbearer...finally she would be able to meet him and thank him for all he had done. If he hadn't destroyed the Ring, she'd still be....well, she might not even still be alive.

"I must watch what I say," she warned herself. "Some things should be left unmentioned, no matter how grateful I am." She walked over to where the famous hobbits were meeting with the other patrons, her heart rattling uncomfortably in her chest.

"And where in Middle-earth has Sofiya got to?" she thought suddenly.

[ January 16, 2003: Message edited by: Sapphire_Flame ]

piosenniel

01-16-2003, 02:34 PM

Pio had smiled graciously at Derufin, saying she would be most grateful if he would bring her a plate of food. And a goblet of watered wine if he would. She cast a critical eye at the banquet table, noting Cami had dragged out the best goblets for this affair. The thought of clumsy fingers breaking the crystal amused her for a moment. They were a horror to clean, and she hoped that many of them would find their glassy fëas seeking the ‘crystal’ Halls of Mandos by the end of this evening.

‘Now that was a nice young man, Miz Pio.’ remarked the Old Dragon, watching the retreating form of Derufin. ‘Your husband have any of his looks and manners?’ Pio laughed, wondering what Mithadan would make of this remarkable old lady.

‘Oh, Mithadan is quite the charmer in his own way. A little older, his face has more character, I think.’ Pio pulled the plate Derufin had fixed for himself over to her. ‘Do you think he would mind if I ate just a little. That was an awfully long ride back from your house, Amaranthas.’

Samwise was just passing their table, bound for the buffet. Amaranthas reached out her cane and hooked his arm with the handle of it, bringing him to a halt. ‘Master Gamgee! I see you’re on your way to the food and drink. Be a dear and help out a poor old lady with aching bones. Fetch us a bottle of that fancy wine over there and three glasses. My throat is so parched I can hardly speak.’

Samwise politely nodded his head at Amaranthas, barely concealing a smile. Poor old lady, indeed! She was as spry as any in the room, just a little slower. And hardly speak?! That would be the day. Still, she was a venerable elder, and he bowed slightly to her, saying he would be right back with it.

‘Now I wonder where Rose and the children are?’ he heard her saying as he hurried off on his errand. ‘I hope he hasn’t left that poor girl at home while he’s off gallivanting with Frodo again!’

piosenniel

01-16-2003, 03:27 PM

The dinner was in full swing when Rose and the children entered, their cheeks pinked from the quick game of tag on the Inn grounds. Frodo Gardener, held open the door for his Mother, Robin and little Bilbo by his side. Rose swept in carrying the newest addition to the family, Tolman, or Tom as he was affectionately called. The rest of the Gamgee entourage trailed in behind like a covey of quail.

Elanor the Fair had Ruby in tow, while young Rose held firmly the hands of Daisy and Primrose. Merry and Pippin came next, shepherding their younger brother and sister before them – Hamfast and Goldilocks.

‘There you are, my dear.’ beamed Sam, giving the missus a kiss on the cheek. The children have got their own two tables set up over there.’ He pointed to a place near the warmth of the fireplace, with a large area behind it that had a boxful of toys and blocks just in case the youngsters grew restless. ‘You and little Tom, of course, will be sitting up there beside me, Mister Frodo and Mister Bilbo.’ He gave the baby a quick smile, and then excused himself for a moment.

‘I have to deliver this to Amaranthas, then I’ll join you.’ He called, hurrying off.

[ January 16, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Orual

01-16-2003, 03:46 PM

Rie leaned on the wall, one foot propped up against it and her arms crossed. She smiled as she watched Don. She was quite a unique girl, and Rie was getting pretty fond of her. She listened to all that was said, but didn't venture forth into the reunion--this was Don's moment, not Rie's. Though she did envy her a little bit...to Rie, these visitors were all heroes out of her father's stories, not friends and mentors.

She was deep in her own thoughts when she felt Don grab her hand. "What--" she began, but Don wasn't listening. She half-dragged Rie up to Bilbo. Her face was grave as she introduced them.

Rie suddenly felt awkward, and even--dare she say it?--shy, which was not a feeling that Rie was used to. She was generally an outgoing, extroverted, in-your-face type of girl, the one who went up to newcomers with a great smile and merrily introduced herself, as she had when she first came to the Inn. But now all she wanted to do was go back to the wall, push Don back in front of Bilbo and let them talk, and be left alone. Why?

"Bilbo, this is Rie," Don announced, sounding very important. "Rie, this is Bilbo."

"A pleasure to meet you, Rie," Bilbo said solemnly, joining in Don's mood, shaking Rie's hand. His eyes were sparkling, though.

"Very nice to meet you," Rie said, hoping she wasn't blushing. What was wrong with her? She was never like this, never. Her father had some fairly important people come to their house before, but even then Rie hadn't been so painfully shy. She glanced quickly at Nuru, who looked puzzled. She made a barely noticeable face, for Nuru alone, that said "I don't know what's wrong with me, but it sure is something." She bit her lip, and tried to smile as brightly as she could. "So, you know Don?"

Gorothlammothiel

01-16-2003, 03:53 PM

Nostawen approached the Green Dragon Inn walking briskly along the path that led to its door. She was singing a song very softly which travelled on the breeze. It took some despair to dampen this elf-maiden's spirits.

At the door Nostawen noticed a familiar horse at the side of the inn. The sight put a smile on her face as she pushed the door open. She lowered her head somewhat as she pulled back her hood, her long raven black hair fell free. Nostawen ajusted her cloak about her neck and shoulders revealing a long dress of deep green trimmed with red, on her back, a bow and quiver.

The inn was busy. She had heard that it was a very popular place in the Shire between all races and it certainly was. Elves and men conversing with hobbits and dwarves. Gracefully she made her way through the tables to the bar where she asked for a glass of water, which she was given promptly. Taking seat she turned to face the open room, watching the characters with great interest.

After several moments of studying the crowds she saw a familiar face sitting at a table on the far side of the room. She got herself up and walked over to them.

"A tale you say my lady?" she questionned as the maiden turned to face her friend of old. Nostawen continued, "Would you care to tell the tale of the star maiden and her friend?" Elwen immediatly recognised Nostawen and a bright smile came to her face.

[ January 16, 2003: Message edited by: Gorothlammothiel ]

Child of the 7th Age

01-16-2003, 04:16 PM

Cami looked about the room and smiled. Things seemed to be going smoothly. She would have liked to sit down beside Bilbo and talked, but there always seemed to be so much for her to do. This was a bit different than the family dinner party which the Bilbo had originally suggested she attend.

Here, she had to think of herself as a hostess. She needed to make sure everyone was properly introduced, and that platters of food on the buffet table were regulary replenished. With so many hobbits loading up their plates, that would not be easy. Thank goodness they had prepared dish after dish that were sitting back in the kitchen waiting to be brought out whenever they were required.

Plus, there were a great number of folk crowding in around their famous guests. She couldn't just elbow everyone aside in her desire to speak alone with her teacher. In any case, Bilbo had promised that, before he left, the two of them would talk.

Amid all this happiness, she couldn't help remembering the words that Don had said. It shocked her to think that anyone could treat a child like that. Especially, the part about the lying. If it was up to her, folk like that would be given a taste of their own medicine. Let them see how they liked it!

But she was not in charge of things, at least here in the Shire. For a moment, a wave of sadness swept over her at the thought of home. Her children were back in Greenwood, plus the whole community of hobbits she'd left behind. She knew the children were well care for. There was no doubt about that. Her new friends, Merimac and Mirabella Brandybuck, had taken the boys and Rose into their home on a temporary basis. And none of the Elders had questioned when Gandalf had asked her to come with him so soon after her arrival in the north. He had assured everyone that it was quite important. Then, he had brought Cami here, telling her she would stay till just a bit after the birth of the twins. He had not explained anything, only smiling cyptically and saying she might enjoy seeing some 'old friends' for a while.

Cami jerked herself back from her reverie. A space had been cleared to one side of the floor, as the tables were shoved back along the wall. The music was starting to play. Cami grinned as she heard one or two glass goblets hit the floor, and hoped that Piosenniel had been too busy chatting to pay attention. Soon, no one could hear the sound of goblets breaking as the dancing would be starting.

arelendil

01-16-2003, 04:22 PM

A maiden had entered the inn but that was normal, they were always coming and going. But this was different the moment the maiden had entered the inn, Elwen had felt a change. The maiden had hair, raven black that fell in curls about her face, they seemed to float as she moved. Dressed in woodland green edged in red with delicate berry coloured shoes. The maiden not so much walked as she floated or perhaps danced across the room. Suddenly Elwen felt the maiden look at her and looking up, Elwen fell in to deep brown eyes that sparkled with light. Then the maiden had spoken to her.

"Dearest friend long lost!" Elwen sprang quickly to her feet as she realised it was the fair lady Nostawen, whom she had travelled all the way from Ithilien with. When she had found her master, he had known nothing of where Nostawen had gone and so had gone ahead to make the boat ready while Elwen found her. And her she was standing before her. Elwen couldn't express her joy!

Finally Elwen calmed herself. She bowed low, greeting Nostawen in the elven tongue. Before turning to those seated at the table. "Newly met friends this is the lady Nostawen. I few minutes later and I would of begun my story of how I came to met such a beautiful and graceful elven maiden. But now you can hear from her yourself. You do not mind if the lady joins?"

The man and the dwarf made no movement so Elwen pulled up a fourth chair and gestured for Nostawen to sit down. Elwen found that her heart was racing and tried to calm it down but she could not. Tears began to spill forth trickling gentle down her cheeks flashing in the fire light. Elwen brushed them away and smoothed her midnight blue tunic down.

"How...."Elwen started. "When? What happened? Elwen took huge glups of air trying to slow down the beating of her heart and the stream of tears. Elwen pause to look at Nostawen, she seemed different...

[ January 16, 2003: Message edited by: arelendil ]

theWhiteLady

01-16-2003, 05:37 PM

A slow smile crept over Frodo's face as he saw the lady in white splutter in surprise. Laurie had heard so very many tales and songs about this most famous of hobbits that she found her tongue tied. She had known, of course, that Frodo would be arriving, but it was different somehow to see him in person. It made it all the stories seem more real, and alive.

Laurie finally found her voice, and her manners returned as well. A deep flush covered her face as she hastily rose and curtsied low before Frodo.

"Many greetings. It is more than a honour to meet you. Long live the Halflings." She ended lamely. He nodded his head and his eyes smiled at her kindly, understanding her lack of composure. Others were watching them curiously, so Laurie excused herself and walked away with her face burning. She felt quite in need of a cup of tea after that encounter!

Artalwen

01-16-2003, 05:38 PM

Arawyn went up to the room she had managed to book for the night, and closed the door, sighing. Time to change for this party she thought to herself. She pulled out a long green dress, and changed into it. It was floor length, to the point where it began to drag along on the ground. Long sleeves, that from the elbow began to billow out wider.

She went over to the mirror and pulled a brush out, and quickly combed her long black hair. My laziness...I don't feel like pulling my hair back tonight, though I know it will get tangled. Ah well. After this, she opened the door and hearing the excitement downstairs, got excited. I can finally meet some from the heroic fellowship. She went downstairs and joined the big crowd.

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

Carie opened the door and stepped in, surveying the room. She set the violin case down in front of her while she took off her cloak, revealing now a red dress. She picked her case up again, and walked around, trying to find the owner of the tavern. It was hard to not run into people, she found, but this time managaged it, for a bit.

Suddenly she bumped into another hobbit. "Oh my gosh, I'm terribly sorry! I must have a streak of running into everyone, please forgive me!" she said, looking to see whom she ran into.

"Oh, it's quite all right dear! Don't you worry now!" The hobbit answered. Carie suddenly recognized the hobbit.

"Bilbo! Why, this party is for you! And Frodo and Sam? Oh my, I've missed you!" Carie gushed, hugging the old hobbit.

"Why Carie Bramblerose, I'd say you've grown half a foot since I've seen you last. How have you been, my darling?" Bilbo asked, hugging her back.

"Just dandy! Oh Bilbo how I've missed you. I still have that dagger you gave to me before you left. I've treasured it always!" Carie said, as the two hobbits began walking slowly through the building. As they were talking, many other hobbits and elves, and men too, were saying hello to Bilbo.

"Well darling, I must get around and chat with the others. It was such a pleasent surprise seeing you again! Oh, I see you have your violin. Please play something for me tonight!" Bilbo said.

"Don't worry, I plan it! I will see you later!" Carie waved, then happily almost began skipping off to find the owner.

Everdawn

01-16-2003, 05:43 PM

Snowdrop finally appeared from the wine cellar, unaware the guests arrived.. She didn't know who to greet first until she was spotted by Samwise.

"Ah! here she is, Snowdrop The Viners Daughter!... how is old Britterbank and Dewdrop!"

"Fine, Sam, my mother and father are fine! I see it is the same with all the Gamgee Clan!" Snowdrop smiled and handed over the bottle of wine to Sam and greeted Rose and all their children.

Next across the room Bilbo had seen young Snowdrop, who was already overwhelmed by all the guests greeting her. "Snowdrop Morningside!" he yelled "Come and greet me dear!"

Bilbo walked up and hugged her before she had a chance to say hello "Bilbo.. how are you?.. I bought seven bottles of 1255 wine for you, father said you liked it best."

He smiled "What would we do without you Snowdrop, what would a dinnerparty be without the belle of the shire!.. and still unmarried I see, not to worry, we will find you a fine husband!" Snowdrop just folded her arms and laughed "im gald you think so Bilbo Baggins."

Snowdrop had made her way across half the room when she saw Frodo Baggins "Hello Snow!" he said and gave her a hug, "its been a while, you should come to Bag End more often instead of pottering around that vinyard!" She laughed.."maybe I will!"

"Bilbo's right you know, what would we do without the belle of the ball!" Snowdrop returned to the counter and poured glasses of wine.

Umbria meanwhile had come down, she was now looking much better, though for the stitches on her forehead she was radiating life. At once she saw Pio and made her way over. "Pio" she said, her gray eyes staring deep into Pio's. "Did you ever think your children would come early?... Mine did, Phellodan.." she was still "I thought I felt commotion down here maybe you should think about that."

Sword Maiden Of The Shire

01-16-2003, 06:19 PM

Merry and Pippin finally found their way through the huge crowd and spotted Frodo. Pippin smiled happily at him "Hello, Frodo."

"We haven't seen you in a while!" said Merry equally happy to see him "So, what do you think of the party so far?" "Even Pippin and I helped!"....

Frodo grined at them "I would've expected to see you two here!" Yes, this party is excellent. But tell me what you've been up to these days...as if I don't know." "Well..." said Pippin "We got our hands on some of Farmer Maggots mushrooms." "Unfortunately, they're gone" said Merry "but when he chased us, we found sanctuary here." Frodo laughed "As usual!" he saw a younger version of himself in them "But be careful doing that to people" he paused and ginned at them "He can get pretty mad." he winked at them and stode towards the others.

[ January 17, 2003: Message edited by: Sword Maiden Of The Shire ]

piosenniel

01-16-2003, 06:43 PM

Pio regarded Umbria calmly. 'No, there is no worry on that account. The twins will be born on Loendë, Midsummer's Day. And their Father will be here to greet them and give them their Father-names. So, do not concern yourself with that any longer.'

Sam, by that time, had come up to the table with the bottle of wine, and had poured each of them a glass of the ruby red liquid. He took one for himself, and offered a toast.

'Here's to your continued health, Mistress Piosenniel, may your babies be strong and healthy, as are mine. And to you Amaranthas,
jewel among Hobbits, May your wit stay sharp and and you life never dull.' He drank down his glass to the both of them and returned to Rose's side.

'Nice boy,that one! You should think about having a big family like that.' She pointed to where Sam's brood were playing. 'Keeps you young and hopping to keep up with them.' she cackled.

Pio blanched at the thought, thinking two would be quite enough for her.

Lumiel

01-16-2003, 07:04 PM

*The party was in full swing, full of laughing people when Lumiel came downstairs. She was wearing a pastel pink dress with a white corset that had gold lacing on it. Her hair was kept down, but plaited along the way to keep it out of her face. Around her neck was a delicate-looking chain on which hung a small silver ring. On it a small opal was set with wings around it.

She skipped down the stairs, surveying the room with her beautiful eyes. She spotted the hobbits, the honorary guest hobbits, and smiled. She made her way over to the crowd and smiled warmly, saying hello's and excuse me's almost every minute. She saw an elderly-looking hobbit with grey hair but gay eyes. She guessed that he was Bilbo, from the looks of him. She clapped her hands together and said pleasantly*

"You must be Bilbo Baggins! I've heard so much about you! I must say that it's an honor, sir."

Bilbo replied, "Ah, my dear, the pleasure is all mine! And who may I ask do I have the pleasure of meeting?"

Lumiel's eyes shaded from green to a bright blue and she said, "I'm Lumiel Rovalhir. I can see now why all these people threw a party for you, Frodo, and Sam! If they're anything like you, this will be the best party I've ever been to!"

*Both Bilbo and Lumiel laughed cheerily and Bilbo said, "Enjoy the party, young lady! And don't let the young fellows down by not giving them a dance, eh?" Bilbo laughed once more and turned to another guest who was greeting him.

Lumiel felt happy now, more excited than she had been in a long time. She absolutely loved dancing, she couldn't wait until the music started! As she looked around, she saw the hobbit from earlier whose dress she had been admiring. Carie, as she recalled her name, was now wearing a beautiful red dress.*

"That hobbit has good tastes. I wonder if it's all right to start eating now?..."

Carrûn

01-16-2003, 07:07 PM

Unnoticed in the general festivities Nárello remained seated by the fire. He had walked over to one of the tables and grabbed what he could carry back to his seat. He now ate in silence watching the proceedings. The small boy was unsure how to act among several of the most reknown in all of the tales he had been told.

He munched his cheese thoughtfuly and his green eyes circled around in their large sockets as he considered whether or not to go talk to any of the hobbits. He was the same age as many of Sam's children, and had even talked to a few of them on some of his wanderings. Deciding against it, his gazed shifted towards Frodo. As if responding to some unspoken cue the hobbit turned and his blue eyes locked with Nárello's green. The boy looked stuned. Here was someone who also understood loss, pain, suffering, and who showed it clearer than most, yet was better even then Awrygan at hiding it when he so desired. Nárello gave a weak smile and Frodo gave him a rather youthful grin in return.

[ January 16, 2003: Message edited by: Carrûn ]

Envinyatar

01-16-2003, 07:30 PM

Derufin was just finishing the plates for Pio and Amaranthas. The line had been long, and the wait longer as each hungry Hobbit and Elf dawdled over their choices. He slipped out of line, when it ground to a halt for the fourth time, and made his way to the kitchen.

Grabbing a large tray, he took two of the reserve stack of plates and loaded them up with the extra food. One of the Hobbits who had done some of the cooking came in and scolded him for disarranging the foods on their platters. He grinned at her, apologized, and went on stacking the plate with savory morsels.

The plates he placed on a wooden serving tray and popped out from the kitchen with it held high. He fished behind the bar for mugs and filled them with the requested beverages. As an after thought he filled a small slender glass with water and stuck one of the daisies in it that graced a bouquet on the bar top.

He was just nearing the table when he saw Sam raise his glass to the two ladies and drink a toast to them. Piosenniel, he saw, had pulled his plate to her and sat picking at the salmon and the salad. She glanced up at him briefly, blushed and looked a little guilty, then raised the slender slice of eel pie to him in salute and popped it in her mouth.

‘Mmmm! Those babies are well fed!’ he said as he sat the plates in front of her and Amaranthas. On closer inspection of his own plate, she had worked her way through it with great efficiency. He smiled and shook his head.

Handing out the forks, he sat himself down next to the Elf. ‘It’s a long, long line. Mind if I eat with you?’

Child of the 7th Age

01-16-2003, 07:33 PM

Cami was standing at the bar passing drinks out to folk, when she felt an insistent tug on her arm and a hobbit leaning over to whisper something in her ear.

She turned around and saw that it was Frodo. "Can we talk? Just for a moment," he asked.

Cami nodded, and pulled him back inside one of the large pantries where it was much quieter than the common room in which the party was being held. She pulled over one of the lanterns for light and dragged in two barrels, gesturing for Frodo to sit down.

"I couldn't believe it when I heard that you and Bilbo had returned to the Shire." She shook her head in disbelief. "I thought that wasn't even possible."

"So did we," responded Frodo, nodding his head. "It was Gandalf who told us we could come here to see old friends. I wanted to see Sam again, and that's the main reason I came.

Cami looked up, startled by Frodo's choice of words. "Actually, that's the same thing Gandalf said to me....to be with "old friends".

"What is this Inn, Frodo? Do you understand what's going on? There's no way that the Shire would have so many Elves. I lived in the Shire for years, and the only time I ever saw Elves was the one time Bilbo took me on that special walk in the woods. I've met more Elves inside these walls in the past few days than I did my entire life. It doesn't make sense."

"And it's not just the Elves. Sometimes we have folk who talk about Numenor as if it was their home, or the other day a dwarf came in claiming to be a friend of Bilbo's named Dain Ironfoot. I know that's not possible. Dain was king of the dwarves, but he died many years ago."

Frodo looked Cami straight in the eye, "I don't know why or how these things happen. I only know that this place is very special. Things can happen here that can't happen anywhere else. Maybe it's the point where dreams and life meet. I don't know. I'm only thankful for this little sanctuary, where I can see and be with Sam, at least for a little while."

"You're right, Frodo. I should just accept. Gandalf always complained I asked too many questions."

Frodo grinned, "I heard about it...."Little Andreth".

Cami looked up and rolled her eyes. "I guess I don't have any secrets anymore. But, if you're here to see Sam, why am I here? I just left Piosenniel a month ago. Would Gandalf arrange this just so I could be with her?"

Frodo looked up shyly, "I don't think so. It's something else. Something to do with Gandalf and Bilbo and you, and I've agreed to help them." For a moment Frodo hesitated, but then went on. "You know Cami, after the Ring, I was hurting. I had lost myself, and I didn't know what to do. But friends came forward and they arranged things so I could be healed, at least a little. Without people like Gandalf, and Arwen, and later on Bilbo, I would never have made it. I know it's never going to be perfect, at least while I'm in this life, but it is better than it was."

"I can go on now. I can learn new things and appreciate the people I love. And I can even accept that it will be a very long time until I see Sam again. And that Bilbo will be leaving soon, and I can't go with him, not yet anyway."

She looked over at him, "I'm happy for you, very happy that you've found some peace. After what you've done, what you've given up...., " Cami's voice trailed off.

"But that's it," Frodo struggled for the words. "You had to give up something too, and we're your friends, and we want to help you."

Cami stared at him. A panicked thought crossed her mind, "Oh, no. I don't want to go to the West. Anyways I have work to do in Greenwood." Going to Amon would indeed be the worst possible choice for her. Cami, who had wished all her life just to see the Blessed Lands, realized that it was exactly the place where she didn't want to be, not now or later. Not unless hobbits from the First Age were suddenly given admission there.

It seemed as if Frodo had read her thoughts, for he burst out laughing, "The Blessed Lands, you! No, no, I didn't mean that." Then he said with some sadness in his voice, "It wouldn't fit, would it?"

Cami stumbled on, "No, it wouldn't. Anyways, I'm not you. What I did..." Here she corrected herself. What we did, Pio and Bird and Mith and Rose and I, it was a small thing."

Frodo startled her when he spoke again with great earnestness, "No, not a small thing. No! Without the Star, without your sacrifice of Maura, everything I did would have come to naught. So, in a strange way, I owe you a very big debt."

"I'm not saying that one thing equals another, or that one thing was as hard as another, only that they both had value and meaning, and there was sacrifice found in both."

Cami swallowed hard and looked away.

"You loved him?" Frodo whispered.

"Aye," she whispered, her lashes wet with the threat of tears. "Frodo, you will laugh, and perhaps no hobbit should say such a thing. But, to me, he was "Beren", and everything that name carries. I can no more root him out of my heart than I can will myself to stop breathing."

She slid her sleeve over her eyes to wipe away the tears that threatened to fall. "Just remember, Cami. We're your friends and we're here to help." Then he lifted up her hand and gently kissed it as if she was some great lady, and turned back towards the party room. Cami stood by herself a very long time wondering where all this was leading.

[ January 16, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Lumiel

01-16-2003, 07:44 PM

*Lumiel looked around, feeling a bit claustrophobic in the crowd, since she wasn't used to such large numbers of people. As she made her way towards the food, she saw once again the hobbit named Carie. She stopped and spoke to her, somewhat loud to be heard over the other people*

"Hello, you're Carie, right? I must say, you have good taste. The workmanship is beautiful on that dress. My name is Lumiel Rovalhir."

*She smiled warmly and her eyes went from the bright blue they had been when she spoke to Bilbo to a light moss green. She extended a hand to Carie and they shook hands*

"Hello, Lumiel. It's good to meet you. Right now I'm looking for the landlady, Miss Piosenniel. Have you seen her?" Carie asked.

"No, not recently I haven't. But maybe I can help you look for her. If I see her I'll tell her that you're looking for her."

Artalwen

01-16-2003, 08:29 PM

Carie smiled wide. "Thank ye ever much. I am pleased to meet ye. By the way, your eyes are very beautiful. I noticed them earlier, I love the way they change colors."

Lumiel smiled warmly. "Thank you. It was such a pleasure to meet you."

They parted, and Carie noticed the owner near the counters, talking to some of the servers of the food. Carie hustled over, trying not to hit anyone with her violin case.

"Miss Piosenniel! I'm glad I found you. I was really hoping...I brought my violin...maybe you'd like for me to play? I'm really good, honest!" Carie asked.

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

Arawyn wandered around, weaving around the guests, and noticed a large clusture around an old hobbit.

Must be the Bilbo everyone's excited to see!

She saw a server carrying around drinks for the guests, and went and took one, and sipped at it, as she continued wandering around. She sat down in an empty chair near the fire.

"Hello." A nice hobbit said, who was sitting next to her.

"Hello." Arawyn exchanged greetings.

"Who may you be? I am Frodo." The hobbit, Frodo, said, smiling.

"Ay! You must be one of the hobbits this party is for! I am Arawyn. I am so pleased to meet you! I have heard much about you and your friends." Arawyn replied. She smoothed out the wrinkles in the skirt of her dress, and drank the last bit of her drink.

"Ah, yes. All of middle earth by now probably has heard our tale. It's nice to be recognized once in awhile." Frodo said, staring into the fire.

"Aye. It was nice meeting you, Frodo." Arawyn said.

"Nice to meet you also, Arawyn." Frodo replied.

Everdawn

01-16-2003, 10:06 PM

Snowdrop continued giving out wine and ale. "the finest this is..." she would say "brewed and stored at the Morningside Vinyards, of my very own family!"

"Too true!" yelled Bilbo from the corner where he was talking with other hobbits. Snowdrop smiled adn placed down the tray she was holding.

"Who shall care to dance with me!!" She called throughout the room..

Umbria looked releaved as she spoke to Pio "you are braver than you know Pio. You have a gift. May your life, your lord and your young be watched by the Valar always."

She turned her sharp gray gaze to Narello who was sitting by the fire. Slowly she walked over to him.

"You are older than your appearence leads mortals to believe, though I am not fooled. I do not believe Awrygan introduced us. I am Umbria, sometime I am called Angalossiel by the Slivan elves, of which I am born of. Though in Gondor, I am known as The Everdawn. How do you come to the Shire, my friend?"

[ January 16, 2003: Message edited by: Everdawn ]

Nurumaiel

01-16-2003, 10:42 PM

Nurumaiel noticed there was some dancing going on. She blushed and ducked her head, dreading the moment when Bilbo would ask her to sing a song in Elvish. When she looked up again, she saw a very familiar face.

"Frodo Baggins?" she said. "I didn't see you!" She was tempted to say something teasing to him, as she had always done in the old days, but she didn't tease him anymore. Not now.

"Go on..." said Frodo, looking at her half defiantly.

"What do you mean?" she asked.

"I know what you wanted to say. Say it." He grinned wickedly at her. "Go on... I'll start for you... 'Have you...'" He stopped and waited for her to finish.

"Have you joined the side of the orcs and eaten up Hobbiton yet?" asked Nuru, blushing the whole way.

"No, I haven't," he said with a grin. "More importantly... have you?"

They laughed together, and suddenly Frodo felt someone tapping him on the shoulder. He turned and found himself face to face with a little hobbit girl standing on a chair so she could be level with him. "You Frodo?" she asked.

"Yes," said Frodo, looking rather startled.

"Well, maybe I should introduce myself. I'm Don-" she thought it safer not to tell him her real name, for he might call her 'Donnamira' or 'Donna' "-and I'm Bilbo's best friend!"

"Ah really," said Frodo with an amused smile.

"Yes!" said Don defiantly. Of course she knew she wasn't Bilbo's best friend, but she wanted to startle everyone. Unfortunately she had failed, so she tried again. "I bet you're his worst friend."

Frodo didn't look anything but amused, so she gave up, sitting down and sighing. "Everybody's dancing, you know," she said. "I want to dance with someone, but there are no other children."

"What about Sam's?" asked Frodo.

"Well, I don't know if I like them..." said Don hesitantly. "They didn't talk to me."

Just then the door to the party room flew open and two hobbit lasses came running in. Primrose Tussock was the name of one, and she grinned at Bilbo hurriedly and then threw her arms around Cami. They had met each other when Cami was very young.

The second was Robin Brandybuck, who immediately went up to Frodo and demanded, "Have you joined the side of the orcs and eaten up Hobbiton yet?"

"Eaten Hobbiton?" Don asked, startled. She turned to Frodo and looked at him closely. "Your mouth doesn't look big enough to do that."

"Just a joke we have."

"Oh." Don jumped off the chair. "I have to go find Rie now," she said. "I told her I'd only be gone for a little while. I just wanted to meet you. Bye!"

"Dinodas is coming later," said Robin hurriedly. "We weren't going to come at all, seeing as we weren't invited, but Primrose was invited and she invited us. So I came, and Dinodas is on the way. He's trying to convince his sister Ann to come. But she was feeling sick earlier today so she's not sure that she will." Having told all there was to tell, Robin hurried off to get some food.

Primrose walked over to Frodo. "Hello, Frodo," she said. "How do you like the party?"

"It's wonderful."

"Better than the surprise party we had for you?"

Frodo smiled softly at the recollection. "In all truth, Prim, I'd have to say it was about the same. The same people are making it wonderful... you, Cami..."

Primrose smiled hugely at him and then introduced herself to Nuru. At last she skipped off, saying she was going to see if she could get a dance.

"Well," said Nuru, standing up. "I'd better get out of the way. There are many people anxious to meet you and I wouldn't want to prevent them. But, Frodo, if they start crowding you too much (you are a famous hobbit, after all) just call Robin and she'll take care of it."

And that was quite true. Robin could really be... evil... if she wanted to. But at the moment she was also trying to find a dance.

piosenniel

01-16-2003, 10:56 PM

By all means!’ said Pio to Derufin, as she positioned the plate between them. ‘You had better pay attention, though, I am still quite ravenous.’ She tucked into her half of the plate with a relish and soon was stretched back in the chair, her feet on another, almost purring with contentment. Derufin laughed at this image of her, and went on eating his half the food in more civil manner.

A young Hobbit, one Carie by name, came up and asked if she might play some music. ‘Oh, please do. And make it dancing music if you can. We need to shake off the sleepiness that follows so much good food and drink.’

Amaranthas banged her cane on the floor in complete agreement. ‘Get out there you young sprout!’ she said, pushing Carie toward the cleared off dance area with her cane. ‘Play us some music I can keep time to with my feet!’ She turned to Pio and confided, ‘I was quite the dancer in my younger days, you know.’ Pio winked at her and nodded her head. ‘I should think you were!’

The music began, and Pio watched the guests take the floor - in twos and threes and even by themselves if the mood struck them. Across the room, near the bar, she spied Cami, looking puzzled and a little lost. ‘That cannot be her reaction to such wondrous news.’ thought Pio.

She excused herself, leaving Derufin to the able company of Amaranthas, and walked to where her friend stood. Hooking her arm through Cami’s she herded her through the kitchen and out the back door for a breath of cool night air. The stars were shining brightly in the new year’s sky.

‘Look, Cami!’ She pointed toward the star that hung low on the western horizon.’ Eärendil rides the oceans of the night.’ She pulled the woman close to her, keeping her warm. ‘Did I let you read the letter that Mithadan sent me? I cannot remember if I had. It has been so busy here of late.’ She shared the contents of it with her, telling her that she had written back to him, urging him to come.

‘It will be six months until the babies are born. And it will take just a little less than that for him to receive the letter and then ride here. I cannot wait to have him near again. It has been too long.’

She heard a small sniffle and saw the hasty hand that reached to brush away the stray tear. ‘You miss him, don’t you?’ she said softly. ‘Your Beren . . . And you have the right of that, I think.’ She felt the small woman stiffen beside her.

‘You are much in my thoughts these days, dear friend. I drink in your spirit as I can, knowing that all too soon you will be called away to your task. And I will have a final parting from you. I would replace my sorrow with some joyful memory of you at the last.' She studied her friend’s face in the pale, silvered light of the stars.

‘There is hope, adaneth. Where there is love, there is hope. It was a lesson I learned well.’ Silence stretched out between them.

The door to the yard opened suddenly and the light and sounds of the party poured out from within. Derufin called to Pio. ‘Bilbo and Frodo wish to see you for a moment. Shall I tell them you will come?’

She said ‘yes’ to him. And walked slowly in with Cami beside her. ‘Come with me. she said, smiling at Cami and taking her arm once again. ‘Let us go see what the dear Hobbits want . . .’

[ January 16, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Carrûn

01-16-2003, 11:02 PM

"You are older than your appearence leads mortals to believe, though I am not fooled. I do not believe Awrygan introduced us. I am Umbria, sometime I am called Angalossiel by the Slivan elves, of which I am born of. Though in Gondor, I am known as The Everdawn. How do you come to the Shire, my friend?"

Nárello glanced up at the gray eyed elf who had spoken to him. "I walked," he said shortly and a bit crossly. Seeing that this would not satisfy her he continued, trying not to give out to much information about the dark man Umbria spoke of. "I came down from the North. Encai...Awyrgan found me. He took me to a camp of other men and then he left. He didn't want to stay. I wander around now. The Shire is a nice place to stay quiet and there's lots of food. Once in a while I see Awyrgan. I tell him things I see and he teaches me things or tells me stories. One time he gave me this." He shifted his jerkin to reveal a small, well designed dagger.

When he was sure no one was watching he pulled it out, spun in around his hand and then placed it back in its hidden sheath. He grinned. "He taught me how to use it. Older boys in Bree leave me alone now. I like Bree, lots of stories. I've only been to this place twice. I want to leave soon but I think Awyrgan told them to watch me for a while."

[ January 17, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Eruantalon

01-16-2003, 11:13 PM

Now as Elwen was about to tell her story one walked in to the inn.Elwens eyes flashed with care and delight.A wave of happyness was about the fair lady now.So much that now Erulon was warmed by the new company.

Elwen asked if the lady could sit.Before they could say andything she was already seated.Witch was fine by them.Fairest of ladys where rare.Now there where two sitting in there company.Never in my life have I met one of her kind.Yet today I have met two now.

This second one now I see her more closely.She looks so much like her.But soon I will have to go.

Everdawn

01-16-2003, 11:59 PM

Umbria smiled at the Narello. "You are full of life arent you" she put a hand on his head "And brave" she commented. "you wish not to tell me too much about yourself, in fear giving too much infomation of your friend Awrygan"

She stared right into the boys eyes "Few can hide thoughts from me." She reached for a broach in the pocket of her robes, a blue gem set in the middle among the sun.

"I want you to have this, and I shall name you Enien, in my tongue, you see that man who is here with me, he is my liege, and you remind me of him when he was a child. Keep your spirit and you will become strong, like Awrygan one day."

Child of the 7th Age

01-17-2003, 01:39 AM

Piosenniel led her friend gently over to the table where Bilbo and Frodo sat waiting. Cami sat down slowly, wondering if she was finally going to get some answers to her questions, and find out exactly what her friends had in mind for her.

But, as luck would have it, just at that instant, Laurie came running up, waving her hands wildy in the air. "Oh, Miss Cami, we have such a problem in the kitchen. One of Samwise's children, I believe it was Goldilocks, has crawled into the laundry chute, and gotten stuck. We could pull her out from the other end, only somebody locked the closet where the chute comes out, and we can't get to it."

"Miss Rose is quite desperate and needs your help. She begs you to come with a key to unlock the door so they can pull Goldie out."

Cami had to struggle to keep a straight face. She had gotten stuck in a laundry chute or two in her own day, and thought that the young hobbit would probably be none the worse for wear. Still, she couldn't leave her dangling like that. Indeed, Cami thought, if this Inn was the place where dreams and reality crossed, it said some very strange things about what reality might mean, at least as far as her own life was concerned.

"Excuse me," she signed. "I'd best go help Miss Goldie, or Samwise and Rose will have my neck."

Bilbo looked at her and smiled. "Still pulling little ones out of harm's way. Some things never change. No hurry. I wanted to speak with your friend Piosenniel a bit. Take your time with what you need to do. Then come back and we'll go for a little walk, before I set back to Bag-end.

"I expect Frodo and Sam will go on ahead with the children and Rose once Goldie gets rescued from the laundry."

With that Cami headed for the kitchen, searching for the one right key among the many that hung down from her belt that would free Goldie from the laundry room. Once Cami had gone far enough away not to overhear, Bilbo leaned over to the Elf and spoke in a quiet voice, "I understand you were with Cami on the Star, and that you're a good friend. We're friends too, but from very long ago, and we have something we'd like to discuss with you. This came up several weeks ago when Gandalf began telling us some things that happened on the Star. We were back in Tol Eressea, before we agreed to come here for a visit."

"We had an idea, but Gandalf suggested that I speak with you before talking to Cami. This is one of those situations where there is no perfect answer, but we were trying to come up with something that might give some meaning to what the two of them were asked to bear in Beleriand."

Pio listened intently to what Bilbo had in mind.

piosenniel

01-17-2003, 01:44 AM

Pio leaned toward the elderly Hobbit and put her arm on his. ‘I ask your forgiveness for this, but I know what you are speaking about already.’ She saw the look of confused surprise in his eyes. There was a sharp intake of breath, and Pio turned her head to see Frodo looking at her, his brow furrowed. She heard the unasked question.

‘I have not spoken with Ancalimon, that is Gandalf, if that is what you wish to know.’ Their eyes narrowed as they considered how she might know what they had come to speak about with her. ‘I know who you are, as Cami has spoken fondly of you both many times to me. I know that she cherishes you, Bilbo, as her old friend and teacher, the one who encouraged her to satisfy her curiosity about the hobbits and their history.’ She looked at him steadily.

‘She is very dear to me. And despite my knowledge that you are friends, I have seen this evening looks of confusion and sadness pass over her face which I would not have there. My mind reached out when first I saw you speak with her tonight and saw that something troubled her. I sifted through your words to her as you spoke them, looking at the current which ran beneath.’

‘I understand that Maura and Lindo are to come to the Inn just before the birth of my babies. That will be six months from now, Midsummer’s Day. How can you assure her that this will happen? What sign will you give her that what you say is true. That if she trusts in her hope, then it will be fulfilled.’

‘And how do you know this hope fulfilled will not be bittersweet, both for her and for Maura. Have you considered this. Her pain at their separation was great, her suffering long. Her heart, I think, has healed now and she holds him close in it. How can you know the pain this time will not be too great, that her heart will not break with it.'

'To marry your beloved, knowing that time will grant you only a few brief weeks, that is a two edged sword that cuts deep and grievously.’

She leaned back from him, her face grave. ‘I have lived a long time, Bilbo, through many ages of Men and Hobbits. And once, long ago it now seems, my fëa crossed to the West in death and lingered in the Halls of Mandos until I, too, was called back to be with those I loved, to give them hope for a brief while that they might finish the task set them. And then to return when my part was done to the West, while they went on with their lives.’

‘The bonds of love, Bilbo proved too strong. I fear it will be the same for Maura and Cami. Their love for one another ran deep and it has been made stronger, as least for Cami’s part, as time has passed. I fear the choice you ask her to make will, in the end, not be possible. What assurances can you give me that my fears are groundless?

Bilbo shook his head, and took the Elf’s hands in his. ‘We cannot give you reassurance Piosenniel. You ask the very questions we thought to ask you. We only know that Maura has been granted the opportunity to be with Cami one last time, and we know he cannot stay with her forever. They each have their tasks to accomplish within the circles of this world, and in their own times.’

‘Maura believes that he can do this, and we have no reason to doubt him. He is a truthful and well thought man. And he is kind, too, and would never consider this if he knew that Cami could not bear it.’

Frodo spoke up in a gentle voice. ‘That is what we wished to know, Piosenniel. Do you think Cami can do this, that she is strong enough to make this decision and follow it through to the end? Maura’s decision to come, and the decision to allow him to do it, hinges on the answer to this question.’

Pio considered the question carefully. Her words were measured and thoughtful as she spoke them. ‘I have learned not to make judgments of this sort for Cami. She has grown much since last you saw her, Bilbo, and to my mind she has truly come into her own.’ She looked then at Frodo, who regarded her calmly with his clear eyes. ‘I will be here, if you wish, to offer my support when you present this to her, but it is she, alone, who will have to answer that question for you.’

[ January 17, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Lumiel

01-17-2003, 05:33 AM

Lumiel took a seat after she greeted Carie and looked around, unsure of what to do. Never before had she been around so many people, especially elves, despite the fact that she was an elf herself. She sighed and put her hands in her lap, watching the crowd. Suddenly, Carie began to play on her violin and people jumped to the floor to start dancing, while people nearby clapped their hands to the beat.

Lumiel sprang to her feet with elven spryness and twirled to the dance floor. Her brown hair was flecked gold in the firelight and her eyes seemed more like a kaleidescope than anything else, changing from blue to green and back again with the speed of hobbit running to mushrooms. She laughed and it rang clearly with everyone else's voice. Though she knew very few people, she danced among them, by herself, her pastel pink dress flowing and twirling around her. Her joviality on the dance floor only accentuated the fact that she seemed to embody the youthful innocence of the elves, no sign of dark worries or sorrows on her face, at least that could be seen. She called out to Carie.

"Keep it up Carie! You have a way with that violin. I'll dance 'til the sun stops rising, if you'll keep playing like that!"

Carrûn

01-17-2003, 09:10 AM

As the elf handed him the gem the boy reached out slowly, almost as if he was afraid the stone would burn him. His small hand wrapped around it. He dug into his pockets and found a small chains which he hung the broach on. Hanging it around his neck inside his jacket he looked up. "Uh, thanks," he said haltingly.

He mulled over the word Enien in his mind, deciphering the meaning. Sounds ok, he thought.

Child of the 7th Age

01-17-2003, 01:03 PM

The party was slowly winding its way down. A number of the guests had completed their dining and dancing, and were now heading out of the Inn to go to their burrows or farmsteads. Others who'd come from out-of-town had decided to rent rooms at the Dragon. The Inn was chock full of guests who would all be eating breakfast the next morning. Pio even had to put up a few in the stables, since there were no other empty beds.

Cami had managed to unlock the door of the small laundry room and pull Goldie out of the chute. Sam and Rosie had collected the rest of their children and graciously offered their thanks to Cami and Pio, before setting off in the direction of Bag-end, along with Frodo. Only Bilbo remained behind. When Cami finally finished her chores, Bilbo asked her to walk along in the direction of Bag-end, where he and Frodo were staying with Sam.......

This story will be continued in another RPG whose discussion thread will be posted shortly. Stay tuned for further details.

[ January 17, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Himaran

01-17-2003, 01:55 PM

Bali was astonished by how quickly another lady appeared, sitting next to him. Now there are two of them, he thought.

I cannot belive two of the fairest ladies that exist are both sitting here at my table. I never dreamed of meeting one. Turning to the new lady he asked, "Hello, M'lady. I don't belive we've been introduced yet. My name is Bali - what does your's happen to be?

[ January 17, 2003: Message edited by: Himaran ]

Lumiel

01-17-2003, 02:00 PM

As the party died down, Lumiel ended her dancing, as happy as it made her. A slight flush was in her cheeks and she got herself a light ale. She sat near the fire, watching all the guests and making small-talk with a few. She laughed at the antics of Sam's children and watched the guests leave. There were only a few people left downstairs, and she was tired, but felt almost like she could never fall asleep.

She walked up the stairs to her rented room and un-did the plaits in her hair. She carefully combed her long brown hair and spoke quietly to herself.

"I've never been to a party before. What a wonderful time I had! And elves, there were other elves there!"

*She sighed and changed into a light nightgown. She folded her dress with care and laid it beside her cloak, shirt, and leggings from earlier. Her hand fell to the sword that was beside them, and she caressed the hilt, remembering the hand who had held it with confidence and courage before her. She whispered into the night.

"Oh Farin, I wish you were still here...they all seem like wonderful folk, but...they're not the same. It's not the same without you."

She took her hand away from the hilt and hugged it to her breast, tears brimming in her eyes. She closed her eyes tight to stem the tears, but failed and one tear streamed down. She took a deep breath and wiped the tear away, silently chiding herself. Farin would not want her to grieve for him, but she just couldn't help it.

She pulled down the sheets to her bed and went to the window, gazing up at the night stars, whose silent watch seemed to draw her own loneliness out. She sighed and blew out a nightstand candle, then crawled into bed and closed her eyes, upon which she almost instantly fell asleep. Her dreams were of dancing and singing, with Farin smiling and encouraging her.

theWhiteLady

01-17-2003, 02:55 PM

Laurie had accompanied Cami to see that Goldilocks made it out of the chute safely. She had been torn between amusement at seeing the little child stuck in such a ridiculous position, and concern that she would not hurt herself as she struggled. Cami had her out in no time, brushing off the pretty pink party dress and joking with Rose about doing the same thing as a tiny hobbit lass. Laurie shook her head and smiled with respect at the capable woman.

She returned to the party and found the hobbit, Carie, playing skillfully on a violin. Toes were tapping in time to the music and Laurie could not help but twirl a few times around the dance floor herself before grabbing a bite to eat. She felt as though she had not eaten all day, and it was enjoyment enough to watch the happy guests mingle and dance. So many beautiful and varied people all together, it was really amazing to see. Elves, men, and hobbits were all talking merrily and the warmth of the room was not only created by the roaring fire but also by the good will and comraderie that rang to the rafters. It was getting late, however, and the crowd began to thin. Some sought refuge in rooms upstairs, while others left for the comforts of their own homes.

Laurie stretched and yawned; this had definitely been a night to remember. But, as with every party, the guests trickled out leaving countless dishes, cups, platters, and plates to be washed. Without bidding, the lady dressed in white began to gather up the beautiful crystal and took them into the kitchens to be cleaned.

Gorothlammothiel

01-17-2003, 04:52 PM

Nostawen sat with Elwen at her side and two strangers opposite her. One introduced themself, Erulon. There was a crowd gathering in the centre of the room though the commotion was far from their quiet table at the side. Nostawen wanted to know what all the fuss was about but thought it right to answer Elwen's questions first, after all she was as keen to know what had happened to her friend as Elwen was about her.

"So I am to tell the tale? Perhaps I should have waited another moment for you to tell the story my friend." Nostawen laughed then continued, "well if you two would care to know also" gesturing to the others seated at their table who nodded. "After the adventures in Mirkwood I awoke as I expect you did parted. Morriel, that is my horse, was not far but you and your love were no where to be seen. I searched for you both with no avail. After several days on the borders I made my way here for it was always rumoured amongst our people that the Green Dragon Inn was a stop for both friends and travellers alike." Elwen nodded as she pulled at her tunic. "I knew you would both be fine, I would have sensed something had you not..." she trailed off having been distracted. Elwen gave her a strange look, as if she saw something different in her. Nostawen was staring a the crowd.

"They are hobbits" said Erulon after a few moments, "There is a party here for Bilbo, Frodo, Sam and family. They've attracted quite a crowd." "As I can see" she replied, "How we have heard the tales of the little ones" she said quietly to Elwen with a smile.

piosenniel

01-17-2003, 05:24 PM

THE PARTY IS NOW OVER. FRODO, SAM, BILBO, AND ROSE AND CHILDREN HAVE GONE HOME.

The Inn is back to regular, daily business. smilies/smile.gif

Artalwen

01-17-2003, 05:51 PM

~THE NEXT MORNING~

Arawyn yawned and stretched, opening her eyes. "Ah, a new day has arrived" she mumbled as she climbed out of bed. She recalled the night before, and smiled.

What fun that was to meet Frodo.

She changed into a baggy pair of breeches, and a comfortable tunic shirt, and gathered her stuff together.

I wish I didn't have to continue on...but I have no choice.

She picked up her small bag, and slung her cloak over her arm and walked out the door, slowly walking down the stairs.

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

Carie smiled to herself as she walked into 'The Green Dragon'. Remembering last night, she grinned as she thought about how she saw Bilbo again after so long. Also playing her violin...ah the memories. She hadn't played in so long before last night, and she couldn't remember why she had stopped.

Ah me, I'll miss Bilbo, I will!

Sword Maiden Of The Shire

01-17-2003, 07:09 PM

Merry and Pippin entered the Green Dragon the next morning not looking anymore innocent or cleaner than they did the previous day. That was their life in their tweens : cause as much trouble as they possibly could and lay low in the Dragon until they could start agian.

"Well" said Merry as they skiddeded to a halt infront of the counter "No mushrooms today I'd wager!" "Did you see his face?" replied Pippin wide-eyed and smiling "We just passed by, and he looks at us like we're a couple of trolls!" She stared at her feet which had been scratched by thorns when the dogs had set off on them.......again.

Frodess

01-17-2003, 08:49 PM

Champignonne was so excited. She slipped away to an empty room and gazed at her reflection. There was a vase in the room with some lovely daffodils. She removed some of the flowers from the vase and put them in her hair, using the skill her mother had taught her. She dusted off her dress and looked down at her feet. Nice and hairy, she thought with pride.

The room was fairly dark, so she took a breath, and slowly stepped out. She thought that she saw everyone stare at her, but they were too busy with the special guests. Suddenly, she thought she remembered some tale about the War of the Ring. Something about a Nine-Fingered Frodo. Nine-Fingered Frodo! Her eyes and mouth popped open with surprise. THE Frodo!!!

Champignonne shied away. She saw the guests talking, and moved over a little closer to see this Frodo and his friends. She looked admiringly at who she assumed was Frodo. Childishly, when he looked in her direction, she looked away. She blushed, she sighed, like a girl with a crush. She didn't know about that, but she had found her role model. She was going to maybe find Merry and Pippin, if they weren't engaged at the moment. Until then, she couldn't keep her eyes off of Frodo, not even stopping to get appetizers.

This morning, she remembered that night. She was too shy to talk to anyone, but she couldn't forget Frodo. She was going to ask one of those people who had been so kind to her, so she could learn more about this strange yet wonderful hobbit. As she exited her room, she saw Merry and Pippin. She waved hello and waited for breakfast to be served.

[ January 17, 2003: Message edited by: Frodess ]

Orual

01-17-2003, 11:05 PM

Rie was sitting in a chair drinking some water once the party had ended. Her knees were tucked up under her chin, and her eyes had a faraway look about them. A little smile played on her lips, and she seemed to be reciting something.

"Rie?"

Don came up to her, a slightly puzzled look on her face. "What's going on? You seem awfully happy."

Rie grinned at her and stood up. She cocked her head to one side, sighed a little, and smiled broadly. "You were right about Bilbo, you know," she said.

"I was? What?" Don seemed even more confused now.

"He's a wonderful person," Rie said. "You saw how nervous I was? I thought I was going to pass out! What an awful fix: the one person I wanted to meet more than anybody in the world, and I was about to blow it. Blow it! Completely! Can you believe it? But I guess that always happens, when you really want something, it never seems as special unless you think for a second that you won't get it or you'll mess it up when you do get it. I'm not making any sense, I know, but I'll clear it up in a second. Okay, once you left Bilbo and I got to talking some, and would you believe that he even told me a story! A story, Don! Just what I'd always wanted! I mean, sure, my parents told me stories, but it just wasn't the same, nobody tells them like Bilbo does anymore. Oh, Don, it was wonderful!" Rie's green eyes were glowing with excitement and pride and the light of a newly-made memory, the kind that one keeps enshrined forever. "It was one of his adventures, and he told me the whole thing. And I just sat there like a child and listened to it, and it was wonderful! Oh, Don, bless you child!" Rie kissed the girl, who looked as though the redhead had lost her mind. "Bless you for introducing me to him!" With that last blessing, Rie went off dancing and humming, leaving Don shaking her head.

Everdawn

01-18-2003, 12:48 AM

Bebberyn, the man of Dol Amroth was down stairs. Dressed once again in his attire of Blue and silver when he saw Merry and Pippin. Politley he nodded to them.

"goodmorning young sirs" he said "big night last was it not? I did not attend, though my liegelady was here" Unseen Umbria appeared behind him, appearing as if instantly. Her trademark sharp gray eyes appearing out from under the hood of a lilac cloak.

"morn, doth bring a new array of life, i am a changed being this day" she said happily "ah!" Umbria exclaimed "halflings, I have to start my papers!"

.....
Snowdrop dragged herself into the Inn. bumping into a table and not seeing it for what it was quickly apologised and went to the bar and placed some bottles there.

Suddenly she saw Merry and Pippin "oh!" she said sleepily "nice to see you two diddnt cause too much trouble last night... and you dont even look tired, i diddnt catch a wink! and now i think im grumpy!"

doug*platypus

01-18-2003, 02:10 AM

Biffo Proudfoot was up and dressed not long after the early morning noise began to filter through from the common room. Biffo remembered from his last stay at the Green Dragon that even just after sun-up the inn was a flurry of activity, and he didn't intend to miss out on any of it. He had woken up once or twice through the night after the revelry had started in the main room of the inn, but had been already too far gone to be troubled about it, or to get up and join in. The hobbit had slept soundly for most of the night.

Washing his face, and checking his reflection in a bathroom mirror, he gave the character facing him a big grin. It was a fine, clear winter morning, and though perhaps his bare feet shivered a little, it felt good to be alive. Biffo was looking forward to the expedition around The Shire almost as much as he was looking forward to not working in the fields for the time being.

After collecting his things from his room, Biffo strolled into the common room, and after saying good morning to the innkeeper ordered breakfast. He was famished after such a long sleep, and felt the need for a large platter of fried eggs on toast, nice crispy bacon and a mug of tea before heading off to Uncle Olo's house.

Shortly after he had sat down, Biffo's breakfast arrived, and he started to attack it like a ravenous wolf. Such ferocity had not been seen in those parts since the Fell Winter, and several hobbit heads were turned. A couple of unclean and guilty-looking twentysomething chaps looked at Biffo with humour and approval. He gave them a wink, and continued to look around the room as he applied the death blow to his last rasher of bacon. He recognised an elf-maid he had seen helping in the kitchen on his last visit. There was also a tall man dressed in fine blue and silver who looked very interesting, in Biffo's opinion. And there were a couple of unaccompanied hobbit lasses. Not bad! the 37 year old thought to himself, looking at one in particular. But unfortunately the meeting at Uncle Olo's house beckoned. After finishing his meal and paying the innkeeper, Biffo didn't stop to sit around and chat. He lit his pipe, placed his hat on his head and took up his walking staff. With a wave of thanks to the innkeeper, he then headed off out the door and into the road.

Everdawn

01-18-2003, 03:55 AM

Bebberyn couldnt help himself but laugh. "Hobbits are strange creatures m'lady" he said to Umbria who was now hard at work writing." i can see why you wish to study them."

Umbria smiled at him "then do you wish to stay here and help me, or return to Dol Amroth and court miss Ascadowen?" she laughed for the first time in years. "I wont hold it from you Bebberyn my dear, you are the hansomest man in Dol Amroth, I know you have her in your mind" she laughed again..

Bebberyn looked to Snowdrop "never give you a break elves, do they?"
"I do not know sir, i do not know any elves" Snowdrop sank to one of the tables.

ElentariGreenleaf

01-18-2003, 06:43 AM

Sofiya yawned. She had spent the night under the stars. She loved the stars. They were so beautiful. But now she walked back to the inn. She hoped Pio would let her help clear up after the fun. Tidying up. This would be a new experience for Sofiya if she was allowed to help.

Sofiya would have liked to have met Bilbo and Frodo, but she would have got too nervous, and plus there were the crowds. She hated crowds, they made her feel closed in, like she couldn't escape. They reminded her of home.

Sofiya walked in the inns door. It was quite quiet compared to the party. Even where she was sleeping, Sofiya had heard the shouts, cheers, and music. Oh the music! It was wonderful. Sofiya had been listening to it, until she fell asleep. But now she looked round for Pio. Ah, there she was.

"Um," started Sofiya hesitantly. "Miss Pio. Is there anything I can help with. I would very much like to help with the clearing up." Sofiya looked at Pio, then at Pio's belly. "Oh!" thought Sofiya. "She's pregnant! I better help as much as I can if she lets me!"

Sword Maiden Of The Shire

01-18-2003, 08:46 AM

Bebberyn, the man of Dol Amroth was down stairs. Dressed once again in his attire of Blue and silver when he saw Merry and Pippin. Politley he nodded to them.
"goodmorning young sirs" he said "big night last was it not? I did not attend, though my liegelady was here" Unseen Umbria appeared behind him, appearing as if instantly. Her trademark sharp gray eyes appearing out from under the hood of a lilac cloak.

"morn, doth bring a new array of life, i am a changed being this day" she said happily "ah!" Umbria exclaimed "halflings, I have to start my papers!"

Pippin smiled at them "Yes, it was quite a night last." she said "But, tell us," asked Merry, "why did you not attend?"

Many Hobbits wouldn't dare ask this, but then again, these two weren't exactly what their fellow Hobbits would call 'normal'. They looked up at him waiting for an answer....

Frodess

01-18-2003, 10:26 AM

Champignonne asked for breakfast and it was served. She knew it was her time to leave this place, if only for a while. She was going to find this Frodo and question him.

"Excuse me," she said to anyone at the counter in her loudest voice yet, "Can anyone tell me about a certain hobbit who was here last night. I think his name was Frodo. And while you're at it, may I have some more cheese?"

piosenniel

01-18-2003, 11:03 AM

~~~~~ NOTICE OF NEW RPG OPENING! ~~~~~

Deorlin and Merri invite you play in their new RPG: Holiday in the Sun.

See the Discussion Thread to sign up and have fun!

piosenniel

01-18-2003, 03:10 PM

Amaranthas’ woke up just as the sun was peeking in through the curtains. One eye popped open as a stray ray of light inched its way across it, her brow furrowed, and then the other eye followed suit. ‘Where am I?’ she thought to herself, looking about at the strange room and fingering the unfamiliar quilt draped over her. She looked down to see that she still wore the clothes from last night. ‘Party clothes! Hmmph! I must have enjoyed myself more than I thought.’

Ah! She had spent the night at the Inn. That’s why she was still in this dress! She threw the quilt off her and swung her legs to the ground. Picking up her cane from the floor, she got up slowly and walked out to the small living room.

Pio was already there, having gotten up several hours ago to supervise the cleaning up of the Inn. A tray of fruits and breads and cheeses lay on the small table between the kitchen and the living room, along with a steaming pot of tea.

‘Come help yourself to some breakfast!’ The Elf smiled at her guest and pulled out a chair for her. Once settled in, she offered the Hobbit a mug of tea and sat the jar of honey within easy reach. Pio sat down to the Hobbit’s right, and gave her a small plate to pile some food on. She had already gotten her share and tucked into it with a hearty appetite. Done, she sat back and gave a satisfied sigh.

Last night’s festivities were discussed at length by the two, Amaranthas filling Pio in on most of the guests and all of their shortcomings. The Elf nodded her head at the appropriate moments, but felt no need toad lengthy comments. Amaranthas was doing quite well at keeping the talk flowing without assistance.

Pio cleared away the dishes once they were done eating, and made ready to go out into the Common Room to see to the business of the day. ‘Come out with me.’ she urged the Hobbit. ‘Once Derufin is up, I have a mind to ask him if he’ll take ‘Falmar and see you back to your house. Will that be alright with you?’

Amaranthas’ eyes sparkled at the mention of the man’s name. ‘Yes, I think I might enjoy that! I’m sure he hasn’t seen the sights, and he appears to be free from commitments.’ She looked at the Elf in an appraising manner. Pio laughed at the thought of the man being stretched to his gentlemanly limits with the Hobbit’s guided tour.

She had just gotten Amaranthas comfortably seated by the fireplace and turned to walk toward the bar, when the Hobbit snagged her with the handle of her cane. ‘I was just thinking. If it doesn’t work out with that fellow you say you’re married to . . . say, he doesn’t show up. You might want to think about this Derufin fellow. He seems to like you. I saw him looking quite fondly at you last evening.’ She pulled Pio closer with her cane, speaking in a low voice. ‘How would you like old Amaranthas to sound him out for you? I’ve made many a happy match between young Hobbits, and all of them have stuck so far.’

Pio’s eyes went wide at this offer and she bit her lip to keep from laughing. ‘Oh, Amaranthas, that is a generous offer, indeed. But please do not follow up on it. It would only embarrass Derufin, and I am well and truly married.’ She fingered the slender gold band on her right index finger, smiling.

‘Mithadan will be here. I am sure of that. As fast as his steed will carry him.’

‘If you say so, Miz Piosenniel. But just remember my offer in case things don’t work out as you planned.’

Lumiel

01-18-2003, 04:39 PM

Lumiel woke up in the early afternoon, to her surprise as she stretched and yawned, gazing out the window sleepily. She went to a small basin of water and washed her face, feeling more awake now. She combed her hair to a glossy sheen and put on her dark green tunic and leggings, and her dark brown boots. She wrapped her cloak around her sword to hide it safely beside her new pink dress. As she was doing this, she recalled her dream about Farin, and was unsure whether or not it had been bad. She contemplated this and came up with as good an answer as any, talking to herself.

"It was a good dream, good to see Farin again. Even if it was only a dream. It was the waking that was bad. That's what brings reality back into agonizingly sharp detail."

She sighed and finished getting ready, then straightened her room. When she was done, she left her room and went downstairs for some breakfast. After a small breakfast (she still felt full from the night before), she went out for a walk to enjoy the peaceful land.

A little later she came back, feeling refreshed and energized. She took a seat at an empty table and as she looked around the Green Dragon, she saw Merry and Pippin, and a smile came to her face as she recalled their deeds.

"Hail, good sirs! Quite a party last night, eh?"

Merry and Pippin looked up at Lumiel's voice and laughed, remembering the night before, "Yes, m'lady. I saw you dancing, you dance well!" said Merry. "Aye, if your dancing skill was as grand as my appetite, you'd be a rival for any hobbit! So to speak. But there isn't a hobbit alive that can eat out me an' Merry!" added Pippin.

"Well, I saw quite a few of Sam's young brood that would make you eat your words! So to speak as well. We haven't been properly introduced before, my name is Lumiel. And you two are Merry and Pippin, if I recall correctly the infamous names of the Shire's biggest trouble-makers!" replied Lumiel, laughing jovially, with it ringing melodiously in the tavern. Merry and Pippin laughed the same. Lumiel enjoyed the company of these hobbits, there were more down to earth, easier to identify with, than some of the elves she had met. But thinking on that, she realized that her discomfit around the elves was probably because she was nervous that she wouldn't fit in among her own kind.

[ January 18, 2003: Message edited by: Lumiel ]

Sword Maiden Of The Shire

01-18-2003, 07:00 PM

Pippin laughed "Yes, I saw Sam's children eating their share last night, too!" she said smiling."Which reminds me I haven't eaten anything since last night, of course, it could've been this morning......I don't remember. All I know, is that I could do with somthing to eat now. Merry? Lumiel? How about you?"

Merry nodded vigourously "Yes, I was going to suggest that. I could do with some breakfast, most deffinately" he grined wickedly "I could also do with some freshly picked mushrooms from a certain farmer's field.....could'nt you Pippin?......."

Pippin grinned just as wickedly back at him. "At lunch he's usually not around......"

Eruwen

01-18-2003, 08:01 PM

Ravenne stopped her horse quietly outside of a small in in the Shire. After a long ride, a short rest was surely needed. As she walked in the inn, she noticed a few Hobbits spread out around and some other folk.

She quietly slipped over to a small table where no one was sitting. Rave, as most people called her, sat listening to the commotion around. She had a strong longing for sleep, yet the mystery of the people in this land kept her eye ever watchful.

As a waiter brought her the water she had ordered, Rave thought of her home in Rohan. Rave had seen many adventures and mysterious sites in her life being a traveler of the lands surrounding Rohan, yet the Hobbits of the Shire were quite different.

Rave sat still at the table not revealing her true appearance under the dark hood covering her head. While glancing at the strange creatures all over the room, her eyes started to give in to the lack of sleep she had for the past few days. Not knowing how tired she actually was, Rave layed her head down on the table and drifted off to sleep.

[ January 18, 2003: Message edited by: Eruwen ]

Everdawn

01-18-2003, 11:27 PM

Bebberyn laughed.."hobbits..." then he thought.."I did not attend...well because. I suppose parties arent really my thing."

He smiled and turned to see the stranger. Umbria too had noticed her. The elf smiled. "you are of Rohan, am I right" she said quietly, "dont look so surprised my dear, I knew you were here before you entered the door." Umbria returned to her writing whilst Bebberyn stood behind her.

theWhiteLady

01-19-2003, 12:53 PM

Washing the many cups and plates took quite a long time indeed, and perhaps that was why the sun had risen an hour or two before Laurie arose the next morning. She was very loth to leave the warm nestle of blankets, but she forced herself to crawl out and get ready for the day. She began to brush her long golden hair, cursing the knotted tangles. She had been too tired to wrestle the thick waves the night before, but was paying for her negligence today. Finally, with an exasperated sigh, she pulled it back and tied it into a ponytail.

A few moments later, Laurie slipped out of a side door, avoiding the common room, and strode quickly through the chill air into the stables. The warm smell of hay and horses filled the air with its sweet aroma, and Laurie breathed in deeply. She worked quickly, warming up again as she mucked out each stall and filled the hay racks. As she reached the end stall, Laurie noticed a new horse had been brought in. She moved closer, and was shocked to see one of the steeds of Rohan, her homeland! The horse moved forward from the shadows, allowing Laurie to better admire the strong lines and perfect balance. Nell called jealously from down the hall, wanting attention too. Laurie turned away reluctantly, and greeted her own horse, and kissing the soft muzzle. Her long frown forelock tickled Laurie's face as she hugged her horse. Nell had been the only reminder of her homeland and former life, and had long been her best friend on the long and lonely travels. Still, it was interesting and intruiging to see another horse from Rohan so far from home. Laurie wondered how it came hence and who brought him. "Only one way to find out," she told Nell.

So with one last fond pat and glance down the hall, Laurie left the stables and re-entered The Green Dragon, this time through the front door. The common room was full, as usual, and she glanced around, wondering to which of the strangers the horse belonged.

Eruwen

01-19-2003, 01:00 PM

Rave awoke some time later and noticed new faces and strangers in the inn than was before. The glass of water was still sitting on the table in front of her. With all ease and watchfulness, Rave decided to remove the hooded cloak from her head revealing her long, dark hair that was hidden by the shadows of the garment.

As she sat with memories flowing back into mind of how she arrived at this lovely inn, she noticed a woman come in through the front door as if she was searching desperately for someone. Rave watched this stranger closely. She felt an urge to hide from the presence of this woman, but her heart told her to stay---that all was still safe and she need not worry at the coming of this woman.

piosenniel

01-19-2003, 01:10 PM

At last, the Inn was digging out from under the festivities of last night. The dishes had been done, and some brave soul had tackled and managed quite well to clean those faceted, crystal goblets. 'That deserves a special reward.' said Pio, knowing how irritating it was to clean dried wine from between the edges of the facets.

Now where was Cami? Probably still tucked snug in her bed, covers pulled over her head to cut out the light. She ran up to the stairs and banged loudly on the door. 'Rise and shine, my wooly-footed friend! The larder is looking quite bare this morning and we are down to our last few kegs of ale.'

Pio tapped her foot on the floor as she waited. 'And about that wine someone so graciously brought us for the party - many of the guests, it seems, have taken a bottle or so of it home with them - calling it a "door prize"! A door prize!' She put her ear to the door and listened for the sound of anyone stirring. 'That wasn't your idea, was it, Cami? Cami?!'

She knocked on the door again . . .

Himaran

01-19-2003, 01:20 PM

Suddenly the inn door burst open. A cloaked man hurried in, a long broadsword across his back. He looked this way and that, searching the room until his eyes came to a dwarf sitting at a table with a man and two ladies. He came up to their table. "Bali, I must speak with you," he said.

The dwarf turned sharply, realizing that he had been addressed. He studied the new arrival, then the light dawned on him. "Karadon, my father's messanger!" The other members of the table all greeted him. I have no time to speak, though I wish I did. I must be going. "Bali, son of Dwalin, I have something for you." He handed him a letter. Bali stared at it, then started to say something and then looked up, stoping his sentence. The man was gone.

Having seen his face, and his hands trembling, Bali opened the letter. Reading it, his face grew grave, and an expression of deep concern covered his normally jolly features. At length he spoke.

"Eruantalon, my friend, I have a story to tell you." With that he began.

"As I left Mirkwood I came to a strange wasteland, where few live and known travel by night. It is a dangerous road, through Wilderland, which which is the name I gave it. Wolves prowl the forest; orcs from the --- mountains patrol the northern border, and goblins from Moria and the Misty Mountains creep through the western parts, making the narrow paths all the more deadly to the unwary traveler.

Here it was that the elves of Mirkwood left me. But not all; for Halonir, long a friend of mine, vowed to continue with me and see for himself the great forest of Lothlorien, which lay near my chosen route. I accepted his company with great pleasure, for I was sad to see the elves go and be left alone on my journey.

When we entered to Wilderland, Halonir felt a great disturbance in the air. Something great was amiss in the land. After a days travel we found several huts, the first sign of life. But they were burnt, hacked apart and crumbling in ash and ruin. Bodies there were also, of men, women, and children. Halonir looked around at the ground, and soon his keen eyes picked up a set of tracks; they were strange, and matched nothing he or I had seen before. The tracks were not of man, orc, or goblin, nor of troll or warg.

Astonished, and angered, we continued our travels. Soon we came to another village, in the same state as the first.

Burned buildings.

Burned Bodies.

And tracks... Always more tracks.

It was several days later, as we came to a large hill, that we found the answer to the riddle. Arriving at the top, we saw smoke rising from a clearing not far south of where we stood. Not only smoke, but orange flame. From the clearing there came shouts, screams, snarls and the ring of steel.

Dashing from our vantage poing we raced through the forest; heading in the rough direction of the sound (which was all we had to guide us. Soon we reached the conflict.

Arriving at the clearing first, Halodir found himself standing amidst the caos of a Uruk Hai raid on a large village. The mutant orcs weilding long swords, spears and broad axes swarmed the area, slaying the villigers and pillaging houses. Suddenly noticing the new arrival, three Uruk Hai charged him. But Halodir was not a King's bodyguard for nought. Slaying two with arrows, he whipped out his long knife and would have slain the remaining Uruk had not a hatcher - mine, that is - have taken it in the throat. Charging into the village, we attacked the force together.

Slaying an Uruk Hai who was beating a villiger, I turned to another, ducking as his sword whistled over my head. Catching him in the midriff with a hefty axe-blow, I slew several more with my remaining hatchets. I turned to see my friend slay his twelth Uruk Hai, using his skill with a bow to easy kill the poorly armored Uruks. Being no match for the ferocity of two able-bodied and ambushing warriors, the survivors fled, leaving the village in peace.

But after helping the villigers rebuild their dwellings, we with ten good fighting men left to track down the attackers. Those who were wounded we caught and dispatched with, but around seven had run north, and were far out of our reach. Thus, not a match for the tireless Uruk Hai, we returned to the village. We sent word of this to King Thranduil, who sent a large force of elves to patrol the area of Wilderland, cleaning it of the scum of orcs and goblins. And so Halodir and I continued on our way, and when I cam to Moria, we parted and he went away south to seek his own kind the the great forest of Lothlorien. We thought that the threat had passed. But we were wrong. The Uruk Hai we fought were only from a small search party, of a greater force, as I have just found out. Read the letter for yourself."

Eruantalon took the old, tattered script from his friend's hands, and unfolded it, crusty dirt falling from it. The letter read:

My dear son Bali,

I am writing you to let you know that war has begun. A large army of Uruk Hai has massed and is threatening Erebor. King Thranduil has sent elvish units to aid us, but our border gaurds are on watch around the day and night, and we expect war to break out soon.

I hope that your journey has gone well, but I plead that you will return home soon. You are needed here.

Your friend, Eruantalon, left here a month before the army was reported. You may meet him on your way. If you do, give him this letter, and ask him if he will return home with you. Any dwarf, man or elf that can fight is needed.

Best wishes on your journey home.

Your father,

Dwalin Longbeard.

[ January 19, 2003: Message edited by: Himaran ]

Falathion

01-19-2003, 02:14 PM

The door burst open, and in came a short, but wide character, his beard nearly touching the floor. Swinging his cloak behind his shoulders and removing the hood from his head, he started the walk towards the bar.

"Gimme a cag o'bear, me fine..."

He stopped there for a second as he confortably worked his place upon a barchair.

"Dwarf?!"

he cried out as he saw who was standing behind the disk. The bartender smiled warmly as he poured bear into a large mug.

"Here you are master...?"

"Turgon Hardhammer at yer service."

The dwarf said with a wide smile.

"And ye'r who?"

He returned.

"I am Dwarin Thunderhammer, owner of this fine inn!"

Turgon nodded his agreement.

"Fine place ye'r havin here! Me butt shall find rest for the evnin, hidden in countless mugs o'bear."

He grinned eagerly as Dwarin handed over the full mug.

"And a pleasure to meet yeh, me fine dwarf!"

Dwarin nodded and turned to a new customer, noting his orders.
Turgon lifted the mug and poured its content into to his welcoming mouth, bear spilling down his long, brown beard.

"Bah, gimme another one!"

Turgon ordered as he placed the mug hard down onto the bartable and wipt his hand across his mouth, taking away to spillt bear.

Eruantalon

01-19-2003, 02:40 PM

Reading the letter now his eyes where set to flame with anger.His teeth gritted and mashed.Through this strain he said,They will not take away the beauty of Erabor.They will not mar my friends home.Is it not enough that they have taken the mines of Durin.Yes I will come along my friend.As he said this his voice grew louder untill he was speaking with a hollow booming tone.

Well my friend it seems where off to another adventure.Realizing how he was now acting in front of the maidens,he excused himself.There was so much of these wrong things in this world.He was ready to fight them at all cost.

[ January 19, 2003: Message edited by: Eruantalon ]

theWhiteLady

01-19-2003, 05:58 PM

Though the room was full, it was not as crowded as first impression made, and Laurie was able to identify many of the customers as guests from the previous night's party. One lady, however, Laurie did not remember and her eye was often drawn to where she sat, head bowed and hidden in shadows by a large hood.

A moment later, however, the cloak was removed in a graceful movement, and its striking owner revealed, black hair rippling down her back. Laurie was slightly disappointed, she had expected to see the blonde hair of her people, but she swallowed the feeling and slowly approached the woman, curious but trying to respect her privacy. She cleared her throat and when the lady's head turned her way, quickly bowed her head and, grasping her white dress, made a small curtsy.

"Good morning, fair lady. I could not help but see you are newly arrived at the Green Dragon and was wondering if you would be needing anything, and I also wished," she added with a small smile, looking into the lady's eyes with her own light blue, "to compliment you on your beautiful steed, if that indeed is him in the stables."

Rosemary Took

01-19-2003, 06:40 PM

Rosemary Took walked up to the pub quickly, looking up at the sign she muttered, 'Ah, looks alright, better here than home.' She had brown, curly hair like most hobbits (which she hated though) and was quite tanned from working in the sun.

She pushed open the door to see a lot of different races and it was really crowded,'Tis a bit strange' she thought to herself. The smell of the food made up for this though and she walked up to the bar and asked for something to eat and an ale and went to find a seat.

When the server gave her the drink she said, 'Might I ask who the innkeeper is? I may need to stay a night or two'

Belin

01-19-2003, 08:37 PM

Quiet, cowardly Belin had returned to the common room, once she’d made certain that the party had ended. She had always disliked parties, and her aversion had not diminished since mentally taking inventory and finding that the last two parties she had attended had involved, respectively, being knocked to the ground by an airborne elf and being rather effectively attacked with a large and heavy chair. No doubt this had been a relatively safe party by comparison, but still...

In any case it was over now. Belin smiled at the loud and cheerful dwarf who had just walked in. “Dwarin isn’t here, Master Turgon, and, much as he’s missed, talking to him certainly won’t bring him back. Are you sure you haven’t had enough beer as it is?”

Turgon blinked at her. “But... it says on the sign…”

Belin sighed. “Why don’t I get you something nice while you look around a little. See who’s here. It’s quite a lovely company. You too,” she added, turning a smile of welcome to the hobbit girl who’d just walked in. “A room? You’ll want to talk to Cami, or to Mistress Pio. She glanced around, wondering whether her absence had been remarked upon. “And anyone here can give you news.”

Frodess

01-19-2003, 09:21 PM

Champignonne never heard an answer. She assumed they were too busy, or that her voice was too small. Soon it would be time to leave this inn, but she couldn't go now. No, she had to wait. She felt something wothin her. She barely noticed the entrance of several people, except the hobbit, whom she accepted (in her mind) as a wandering soul like her. She wanted to talk to this hobbit, but her shyness wouldn't let her.

That something, though, it made her feel cranky, impatient. It certainly was not a lack of food, for that was already done with (Champignonne had eaten about three plates of she knew not what). She couldn't concentrate, she was buried in her own thoughts. Utter distress rushed over her like a wave of superior power.

Child of the 7th Age

01-20-2003, 01:02 AM

"Cami, Cami? Are you there?" Piosenniel banged insistently on the door, waiting for an answer. What a day for her assistant to decide she needed a little vacation! There were folk downstairs asking for rooms, with absolutely no one available to help them.

When Pio had received no response early that morning, she'd turned away and let Cami sleep, thinking her friend needed extra rest after the party. But now it was the middle of the afternoon, and still she'd not seen or heard from Cami.

Sighing with exasperation and uncertain what to do, Pio hastily searched the keys at her waist and came up with the one to open Cami's door. The Elf slid the key in the lock and turned it, pushed the door ajar, and walked into her room. Cami Goodchild was nowhere to be seen, but the window sash above her bed was pushed up to the top, and just outside was a ladder still leaning against the wall.

[ January 20, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Artalwen

01-20-2003, 02:59 AM

Arawyn slid the hood off her head, revealing her shiny black hair, and sighed.

I do not want to leave, yet unfortunatly I must.

A beautiful lady approached her.

"Good morning, fair lady. I could not help but see you are newly arrived at the Green Dragon and was wondering if you would be needing anything, and I also wished to compliment you on your beautiful steed, if that indeed is him in the stables."

Arawyn smiled. "Good morning to you! Yes, I am fairly new...I did manage to arrive last night, and visit the party. What a fantastic time! I don't need much, maybe some food for the road? And yes...my horse is out in the stables... have the stable boys prepared him to go?"

"Oh, you must go? So soon?" Lumiel sighs.

"Unfortunatly yes, there is urgent business awaiting me." Arawyn answered.

Falathion

01-20-2003, 05:19 AM

OOC: Takin you're a hobbit, Belin... as we're in the Shire.. correct me if me's wrong...

BIC:

"Bah! Had too much beer..." Turgon mumbled to himself at the hobbits remark..."

"Me kin drink ale from the mug like water from the running river, me fine hobbit!"

Turgon grinned and gave a hint for another beer. The hobbit just smiled at his silly remark, the dwarf was loosing his ability to speak clearly. Him having had enough beer couldn't be questioned.

After waiting for that next beer, Turgon got impatient.

"What is yer name, me hobbit?"

He asked kindly, yet with a serious undertone. A dwarf wanting ale, and not getting it was as bad an offense as taking a husbands wife... or almost anyway... In other words, it could very easily lead to a fist fight.

Rosemary Took

01-20-2003, 05:43 AM

And anyone here can give you news 'Oh great!' She replied to the kind stranger, 'By the way, my name is Rosemary Took.'
She looked around trying to figure out who and where the innkeepers might be. The place was crowded and she still hadn't gotten used to the big folk, she'd never met any before and wasn't going to start now. She'd never been fond of crowded areas but she felt it was time to change, stop being so shy.

She still didn't know who this Piosenniel was but she thought I'll be here a while, that can wait.

Himaran

01-20-2003, 07:59 AM

Bali was quite worried about the impression he and Eruantalon were sending to the ladies. "My friend," he said, "can we not leave this matter until tomorrow morning? For the hour is late and it is not the best time to make plans about our next journey. Let us forget it for the night, and proceed to lighter matters."

Here he turned to the first of the ladies. "Did you not have a story to tell?"

Durelin

01-20-2003, 10:16 AM

No one turned to look at her as she walked in the door. No one. Good. she thought. She was one with the shadows as she moved to the corner of the inn. It was best not to be noticed, and she had perfected it over the years. Completely covered in a plain black dress with her black cloak, blacker than the darkest night, pulled tightly around her and the hood pulled down over her face, not an inch of skin was showing. She kept her cloak around her has she moved along silently. She reached a dark corner in the northern side of the inn farthest away from anyone. She stood there as a shadow and watched. She saw another woman in black, trying to hide in the shadows. Ha! Everyone can see her. Maybe she is not trying to hide, but, if she is...she's doing a horrible job. She continued moving her eyes over the crowd, not a very large crowd, but big enough. Stupid people! she thought, and her lip turned up in a snarl Look at these pitiful excuses for the fair, immortal beings of elves! Here there are at this swarthy inn, swarming with half brained hobbits! Hobbits! She snarled again and a long, low sound emerged from her mouth, almost a growl. I am here, I do not belong, but do I have a choice? No. They do. They do not know. They will never know, they are blind, they do not watch for antyhing, nothing. They see nothing. In the name of Illuvatar, can't they see? I am alone in this, aren't I? Good. These thoughts came daily, and they always ended in the same way. She liked being alone. Let them be blind. Look at them with not a care in the world. They do not have to... she stopped, she wasn't going to start all over again. She calmly collected herself, still remaining a shadow. She again glanced around the room. Suddenly she jumped. Was he looking at her. She didn't move as the man moved toward her. Then he turned to talk to a woman at the bar. She sighed in relief, he didn't see her. But how long would that last? I have to eat, you have pushed it, three days... Would the inn ever clear out? Or were there always late goers. How late? Her stomach grumbled. She snarled at the sound. Why am I stuck in this wretched body! This body, its so human! She had to get food sooner or later, and it didn't look like the crowd was ever going to clear out. She again moved along the shadows until she reached the bar where a tall elf-woman was bustling around serving drinks. For some reason she seemed familiar, but she shook off the idea. You're tired. She moved in front of her and began to speak, "I need to eat," she said without emotion as she threw a clinking pouch onto the table.

The elf jumped and looked at her fearfully, she hadn't heard or seen her walking to the bar. She glanced at the bag the dark cloaked woman had tossed on the table, then the elf looked up at her again, with fear shown slightly in her eyes, but her voice was firm when she spoke, "I will serve you, m'lady, if you would kindly remove your hood. Village custom," she stopped then added, "And maybe your name, mine is Piosenniel. There are many strange folk coming here, need to be careful, hope you understand."

She looked around, no one was looking in her direction. The crowd had helped, she was one person, and wasn't noticed. Good, and the elf had not asked for much. She removed her hood to reveal long blond hair, and a pale face. And pointed ears. She was pretty, not beautiful, but pretty. "Durwen," she said, again with no trace of any emotion. Another thing she had perfected. No one ever knew what she was thinking, or how she felt. If she felt.

The elf nodded and brought her food, she wouldn't question a customer with a full bag of coin.

She ate in silence, and respectfully kept her hood half way down her head. She glanced around the inn yet again, watching the people milling around. Then she was lost in her thoughts, Darkness is never completely gone from the world. It dwells in too many places.

[ February 01, 2003: Message edited by: Durelin ]

Eruantalon

01-20-2003, 10:19 AM

You are right my friend.We should enjoy this fair company while we can.Some times I lose myself.But this can not be excused.

Now looking at the company of the tabbel.He knew his long journy was not over yet.He wouldn't be leaving this life as soon as he thought.But his items would have to reach the Gray Havens,just not yet though.

But for now he should turn his thoughts to lighter things.While he still could.But the many years and journys would be over one day.In that time his story would be over.So then the great weapons he was allowed to use would go back to there rightfull owneners.

Forgive me ladys for my dark mood.I will make it up later with, a good story.

[ January 20, 2003: Message edited by: Eruantalon ]

Envinyatar

01-20-2003, 12:47 PM

He saw the Hobbit as soon as he reached the third step. Amaranthas, too, had spied him and waved him down the stairs with her cane. He smiled as he approached her. ‘I wonder if I shall ever be as sure of my place in this world as she is!’ he thought. Sitting upright on the chair by the fire, back stiff, and waving her cane at him in an imperious manner, she was much the image of a tiny monarch commanding the presence of her subject.

‘Sit! Sit, young man!’ she ordered, offering him a chair with one hand and with the other waving a server near. ‘Get me and the laddie some more tea, if you please, dear. And a flask of those dwarven spirits I know Miz Pio keeps behind the bar to liven it up.’

Laddie! Derufin chuckled. The tea and the spirits were promptly brought. And he poured two cups of the steaming liquid for them. He declined the Dwarven spirits, but poured a small drop into the Hobbit’s cup. Before he could tip the flask back up, she reached out and pushed his hand back down, giving herself a quite generous portion. ‘It’s cold today.’ she said. ‘I need something to warm the old bones from the inside.’

Amaranthas took a generous drink of tea and proceeded to tell him he had been elected to give her a ride home. On Pio’s horse. And as Amaranthas had certain matters she needed to attend to, she would like to leave as soon as possible.

He told her that would be no problem. All he needed was a little breakfast to take the edge off his hunger, then they could be off. He asked the same server who had brought them tea, to bring him a plate of toast and some jam. While he waited, he leaned back in his chair and drank his tea, listening to Amaranthas talk. This should be an interesting ride, he thought as she ran through the litany of peoples and places of note they would be passing.

[ January 20, 2003: Message edited by: Envinyatar ]

Falathion

01-20-2003, 12:57 PM

"Bah!"

Turgon said with a drunken grin, looking over at the lady that had suddenly appeared at the bar, asking for food.

"The ain't nh Dwarin here, girlll..."

he said with a snort. Pointing at the hobbit, Belin, he then added.

"This hobbitlad just fooled me as well, hick! Dwarin is gone... and missed... or so people say..."

She offered him a glance in the eye, ice cold. As if lightning had struck the old, hardy dwarf, or a ghost was seen when one least expected it, Turgon quickly took his effort, and eyes, back to his mug, that was getting empty.

"E'noher be... hick... er?"

[ January 20, 2003: Message edited by: Falathion ]

piosenniel

01-20-2003, 01:15 PM

‘Turgon, is it?’ said Pio, coming to stand at the Dwarf’s table. She sat down to be eye level with him. ‘My name is Piosenniel, or Pio, if you prefer. The Innkeeper here at present.’ She put another full, foaming pint of ale before him, wiping the table of his spills as she set it down.

‘I understand you have been inquiring after Dwarin. He has gone away for a while, some private business. None know when he might return – we have had no word from him.’ She looked him squarely in the eye and went on. Until then, you will have to deal with me. A not unpleasant experience, I might add, unless you intend to cause trouble in my Inn or on its grounds.’ She reached out her hand and put it on his as he raised the flagon to his lips. ‘Do we have an understanding concerning this, Master Dwarf?’ the sleeve of her shirt fell back slightly, giving a glimpse of the knife in its sheath secured to her forearm.

Pio called a passing server to the table, directing them to find something for Turgon to eat. ‘Best you get something in that belly of yours, to sop up the quantitiy of ale you have put there. If you would like, I will find you a room should you need to sleep it off later.’

[ January 20, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Falathion

01-20-2003, 01:37 PM

"Need to sleep off...?!"

Turgon replied with a grin.

"Me is not drunk untill me nose hit the floor I tell' ye!"

But remembering the knife he added.

"Yet I can.. hick!... assure ye me's no troublemaker... that is... unless trouble asks for it!"

He smiled wildly and giggled, meeting Pio's eye.

"Gimme a few more o'that fine ale of yer's, and I won't be no trouble at all. And yeh, some food would hit e'spot! Hick! Ehmm... and me is thinking a room, at the first floor if... hick... possible, would be fine."

Turgon smiled at Pio, though soon he was lost in his newly cagged mug of cold, scummy beer.

Belin

01-20-2003, 02:15 PM

Belin briefly considered pulling the misplaced mug from Turgon's hand and replacing it with a mug of cold water. If he couldn't tell her from Dwarin, or indeed distinguish between male and female, he was either very drunk or very inattentive, and probably wouldn't know the difference between beer and water either. But it was Piosenniel who had given it to him, and Belin could only assume that she'd known what she was doing. With a shrug, she gathered up some bread and cheese and handed it to the inebriated dwarf. "Pay attention," she admonished him, "really."

She glanced across the room to where Champignonne sat weeping into the table, and moved toward her with what was left of the cheese. "Are you all right?" she asked, offering it to her.

piosenniel

01-20-2003, 02:20 PM

Satisfied she had let the Dwarf understand her position, she left him happily to his ale and food and out doors to the courtyard to investigate the mysterious ladder she had found propped against the open window of Cami’s empty room. Going round to the back of the Inn, she spied the rickety, grey wooded ladder still leaning against the sill of the Hobbit’s room.

‘I’m surprised she dared climb down that old thing!’ There were a few rungs missing along the length of it, and one of its feet was broken off shorter than the other and had been propped up on a flat rock. ‘She must have been desperate to get wherever she has got off to.’

She took the ladder down and brought it to the stable where it had been stored. Taking one of the hammers from the small workbench just inside the building, she knocked the ladder apart, and consigned the pieces to the woodpile. Perhaps she could get someone to build her another one. If not, she would cobble one together herself.

Pio looked up to see Derufin coming toward the stable. ‘If you’ll get that fine horse of yours saddled up, Mistress Piosenniel, I shall take the good Amaranthas home.’ Pio’s brow furrowed, as she had not asked him if he would do this as yet. He laughed, seeing her expression, and told her Amaranthas had snagged him with her cane and let him know it was to be his task this morning.

The Elf laughed, then, and shook her head, hoping that Amaranthas would keep to her previous promise. She saddled up Rochfalmar, adjusting the stirrups in length for the Man’s legs, then let him lead her to the front steps of the Inn. The Hobbit stood there, her dark eyes glinting mischievously as the two approached with the horse. Derufin mounted first, and Pio assisted Amaranthas up to sit before him.

As she did so, she whispered in the Hobbit’s ear. ‘Just stick to the sights and tales about your neighbors, if you please. I would prefer not to be a topic of conversation.’

Amaranthas looked down innocently at the Elf. ‘What was that, Miz Pio? These old ears aren’t what they used to be.’ The Hobbit reached back and tapped the horse on its hindquarters. Derufin, unprepared for the forward movement, nearly fell off the back.

‘Hang on, dearie.’ came the voice of the Hobbit, clutching firmly to the horse’s mane. She waved to Pio as the horse trotted down the lane.

Pio went back to examine the area at the foot of the ladder. The dirt was scuffed, but it appeared at least one set of Hobbit footprints had approached this side of the building, coming she guessed from the direction of the stable. It was difficult to determine how many led away from the area. She smiled to herself as she considered the problem.

The ladder, at least, was gone. When Cami came back she would have to come through either the front or kitchen entrance. Pio would speak with her then . . .

Child of the 7th Age

01-20-2003, 03:33 PM

Cami had spent the night at Bag-end, sleeping on a bedroll next to the hearth. She hadn't really planned it that way, but, at the time, it seemed like the wisest thing to do.

First, she'd had a long talk with Bilbo and come back to the Dragon, expecting to slip into bed and awake the next morning to start her chores again. But sleep had eluded her. Bilbo's words kept repeating in her mind, despite all her efforts to will the conversation away. Cami had tossed and turned unable to settle for even a single instant.

She reasoned that there was no sense lying awake in bed. Yet, she did't really want to go trooping through the kitchen or front door so everyone would know her business. By chance, one of the workers had been replacing some roof thatching just that afternoon in anticipation of the party. A rickety old ladder had been left standing upright underneath her window. So she'd slowly climbed down, rung by rung, being careful not to plunge headlong to the ground, and then run off towards Bag-end, which lay just ten minutes distant.

Bag-end normally had ample rooms for visitors, but things were a bit more crowded than usual. Sam and Rosie and their thirteen children filled up all the bedrooms, with Frodo and Bilbo assigned to the study and guest chamber. She had sat up half the night talking with the two hobbits, until she'd finally decided exactly what she wanted to do.

Then, she'd declined Frodo's offer of the guest room and curled up quite contentedly on the kitchen floor armed with blankets and pillows, intending just to have a little snooze. To her surprise, Cami hadn't woken until late in the morning and spent much of the afternoon deep in conspiracies and secret plans, then said goodbye to the hobbits and scampered back to the Inn. The ladder seemed to be curiously absent from where she thought she'd left it. Cami slipped behind a large beech tree and scratched her head, wondering what her next move should be.

[ January 20, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Everdawn

01-20-2003, 05:57 PM

Umbria the elf was stirred by the thoughts of the dark woman in the corner sitting away from everyone. Umbria had her back to her. Umbria spun around and let her sharp gray eyes look deep into the recesses of the black hooded cloak.

"do not feel anger" she thought to herself "she doesnt know who you are and what you have been through... she likes being alone... not here to cause trouble I guess... on the run?..hmm.." she kept staring, for no one can hold her stare "I remember when I was like her" she thought..

Bebberyn noticed his leigelady staring at this stranger. He knew what this meant..Be wary. "this is the same look she had when my brothers were slain" he remembered. Bebberyn moved from behind Umbria to the middle of the hall, his hand on his sword hilt.

Hirilaelin

01-20-2003, 10:53 PM

A young hobbit lass opened the door of the Green Dragon and walked in. Large hazel eyes were framed by wavey light brown hair. Freckles were sprinkled across the bridge of her nose, and her mouth was smiling. Surveying the room, she took in the many patrons.

She did not recognize anyone, but that was understandable, what with her being new to the Shire. She was come from Bree, and had moved with her family, who had decided that they had wanted a quieter place to live. She walked up to the counter of the inn, and addressed the person behind it.
"Hullo, I was wondering if you could help me. I'm rather new here."

[ January 21, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Envinyatar

01-21-2003, 04:36 AM

Derufin was quite amused by the tiny Hobbit who rode before him. ‘You should have your own personal chronicler.’ he told her. ‘The entire history of this section of the Shire is stored like a great treasure within that head of yours, and here I am, lucky enough to have it parceled out to me, gem by gem.’ Amaranthas chuckled at this image of herself being followed about by a handsome, in her imaginings, young Hobbit with a sizable inkwell, a large blank book, and numerous quills poking out from his pockets, and stuck behind his ears.

It wasn’t until they approached her house, that she turned to the subject she had been wanting to explore since they left the Inn. But, now that they had ridden together for some time, she felt more comfortable in broaching it. She looked down at his hands as they grasped the reins before her. ‘I notice you don’t wear a wedding band of any sort, Derufin. Have you never been married?’

The man grew quiet, and did not answer the question. He only urged the horse on with a tap from his heels, and kept his eyes to the road . . .

theWhiteLady

01-21-2003, 06:22 AM

Laurie was suprised when another figure, sitting rather close by but in the shadows where her blue eyes had missed, stood up and answered her greetings. She stumbled out some kind of reply to the lady's answers and in her confusion barely heard her say she was soon to be leaving the inn. Laurie made a small curtsy in reply as the lady bowed her head and left, and then she turned her blue eyes back to the lady she had originally addressed. Obviously thrown off, Laurie searched for the words with an embarrassed laugh.

"Um, is there anything I can do for you?"

Child of the 7th Age

01-21-2003, 08:30 AM

Cami surveyed the Inn up and down, trying to decide what her best plan of attack would be. The front door led to the public area; the back door to the kitchen. Either way, she might face a barrage of questions from Piosenniel or some of the staff as to her exact whereabouts and frame of mind the night before. She'd have to face these queries sooner or later, but it seemed prudent to defer the questionning until she'd enjoyed a long soak in a soapy tub and a fresh change of clothes.

There was a third option for entry, little known to most visitors at the Inn. It was not an option open to Men or even Elves, who for all their grace and agility still could not compact themselves into as tiny a bundle as a hobbit. Two small wooden doors, tilted at a slight angle against the outer wall of the Inn, led down into the cellar and served as a chute so that coal and peat could be stored over the long winter months. Cami has used this private entrance on more than one occasion, although she had to admit that it had been a number of years since she had last tried this particular trick.

She slipped her feet into the chute and began wriggling her body in, expecting to slide down to the bottom in just a minute or two as she remembered doing before. There she planned to pick herself up from the floor, dust off her skirts, and take the back stairwell up to her room where she could enjoy a bath and a change of clothing.

Cami waited a minute in the chute, but nothing happened. She did not seem to be going anywhere. She wriggled about in frustration, and managed to drop down another foot so that only the very top of her curly head was visible from the outside. With exasperation, she considered her predicament. Perhaps, someone had redone the chute and made it a little smaller. Either that, or she had added a bit more bulk since the last time she'd tried this trick.

In any case, she seemed to be stuck. She couldn't climb out, and she couldn't wriggle down. This was quite embarassing! Even worse than enduring a barrage of questions. She began to rue her hasty actions which had led her to this particular moment. As Cami had little choice in the matter, she sat back and waited, wondering if anyone would ever see her and come to pull her out.

astarielle

01-21-2003, 09:39 AM

As Astarielle was obviously not getting noticed she decided to sing. At this everyone fell silent and at last she was heard. She went over to the barman and again asked for a room adn a stable for her horse.

Having sorted this out she then asked "Are there any quests going on here as I have been journeying far?" As she waited for a reply she gazed around the inn, her green eyes glistening in the candle light. Sge wondered who all these people were and hoped that they would introduce themselves to her as she was to shy to ask.

Hirilaelin

01-21-2003, 09:54 AM

The hobbit lass, not getting any reply from behind the counter, decided to introduce herself to the young lady that had just spoken.
Walking up to her, she bowed her haid slightly, and said, "Hello. My name is Hirilaelin. I am also new here. I do not know of any quests, as I am newly moved here from
Bree."

Mithadan

01-21-2003, 10:21 AM

Far away to the south, a rider entered the city of Minas Tirith bearing a message from the north. After making inquiries, he determined that the addressee was at Harlond working at the docks. The rider, weary from his long journey, entered an inn and rested for a night before moving on.

The morning found him prowling the docks seeking to deliver the message. He came across a tall man with grey eyes and raven hair shot through with strands of silver. The man was wearing a fine cloak of blue embroidered about the collar with gold. He was sitting on a piling while reviewing a scroll and occasionally looking up at a ship which rested in drydock with workers swarming over its wooden hull and decks.

The rider urged his horse forward, then dismounted, twitching aside his black cloak to reveal the livery of the White Tower. "Excuse me, sir," he said. "But might you be Mithadan, captain of the Lonely Star?"

The man looked up at the rider, squinting slightly in the morning sun. "Aye," he responded. "That I am. And you are?"

"I am Hithmir, an errand-rider of Gondor," the rider replied. "I am recently come from a journey to the north which I undertook at the behest of the King. I have a letter for you from the distant land of The Shire."

Mithadan rose and stepped forward eagerly. "A letter?," he asked excitedly.

"Aye," answered Hithmir. "From a fair Elven maiden that I met there." Hithmir rummaged about in his pouch and withdrew a sealed packet which he handed to Mithadan, who hurriedly passed the rider a handful of silver coins before stepping away to open the missive. He smiled and shook his head as he read:

My Bearer of Light before the Sun and Moon –

Beloved, I know you would never think of yourself in this way. Even now I can see you smiling and shaking your head ‘no’. But each night I look out my window to the western horizon, where the bright evening star hangs just above the Emyn Beraid, and I hold you in my thoughts for a few, too brief, moments. It is my hope, that when the season turns, I will not look toward the east, above the Hithaeglir, to find the morning star heralding the sun. But that it will be your own dear face which wakes me with its light and laughter.

I had not intended to stay this long away from you. But events have conspired to make it so. The Inn is busier than I expected, and I have found no one as yet to take over the responsibilities left to me by the former Innkeeper. As is my wont, I have run myself ragged seeing to details. But do not worry about me. Cami is here, and she sees that I take care of myself, as best she can.

It was good news that we were able to turn a tidy profit for the partnership. Bird and I had made some plans before we finished our last voyage, and she will now be able to finance her part. It is our hope that in time we can track down the history of her race. As you know, it was in fact, the quest for that knowledge that first brought me to the Shire.

As to the Lonely Star, my feet long to feel her deck beneath them, and my hands to grip the wheel. What I would give to have these lively babies, pummeling my ribs as I write these words, rocked to sleep by the glassy waves!

Your son and daughter grow stronger every day. They miss their atar, as do I. Their fëas are vibrant, reaching out with great energy to take in the world around them. Once they are born I fear their ammë will be hard put to keep up with them! How I wish you were here to watch them in this season of their growth.

I wish that I could return to the warmth of Gondor and to your arms. But I find I cannot, until this task of mine is done. I miss you sorely, also, and would have you by my side, for even just a brief space of time.

Will you come to me, Mithadan?

I await your answer.

~ Your Piosenniel

Mithadan frowned for a moment. "Cami?" he muttered. "Is she delusional from overwork and pregnancy?" Then he smiled again and looked back to the ship. It would be a month and more before the work on it would be completed. He could not wait even if the seas could carry him to the north quickly enough. He would need a horse... and clothing for cold weather.

Hithmir watched as Mithadan read the letter. When he lowered it, the errand-rider asked, "Need you send a reply? I can arrange for a rider to carry it."

"Thank you," replied Mithadan. "But I shall carry my own message..."

Falathion

01-21-2003, 10:29 AM

Turgon smiled happily as he recieved the bread and cheese.

"Me thanks yeh... hick... Though, me thinks meat right from the bone should be better... ehm, Me don't blame ya though..."

He saluted Belin and took a good bite off the bread. With a good mouthfull of beer he let it all slide down his throught. Both Pio and Belin left him, and so he was once again left to his food and mug of ale.

"Hail th' alm'ght for thsss..hick..fine beer..."

He emptied the mug with a last large soup, taking half the mug in one large mouthfull before hammering it down into the table again.

"An'oher beh' pl'ssszzzz"

Suddenly the dwarf dropped face down on the table and fell asleep...

Hirilaelin

01-21-2003, 02:08 PM

Hirilaelin turned from the lady and looked at the dwarf asleep on the table, snoring with his mug in front of him. She laughed lightly and said, "Drank too deeply did he? The ale of this inn most be most excellent indeed for him to do so."
She turned to the woman who she had just just spoken to and said, "You have a most excellent singing voice! I cannot seem to get anyone to talk to me either, but maybe you will. Have you been long here? Where do you come from? Please excuse my curiosity," here she bowed her head again, "for I am but a simple hobbit girl."

Mithadan

01-21-2003, 03:26 PM

A Hobbit wearing a hat with a feather in it runs into The Green Dragon carrying a scroll. He clears his throat to make sure he has everyone's attention, then strides over to the bar where he unrolls the scroll and tacks it up to the wall. "Everyone, take a look!" he calls. Then he turned and left the Inn.

The denizens of the Inn crowded about to see what was so important. They read the following:

Attention: For all interested in learning how to create an RPG proposal, a tutorial is being run in Rohan. You will see how the Innkeepers, et al. try to help people put their proposals together and get some insight into what the reviewers are looking for and what kind of suggestions they make. Check it out! The tutorial will result in a game being formed in Rohan.

[ January 21, 2003: Message edited by: Mithadan ]

Envinyatar

01-21-2003, 04:26 PM

The remainder of the trip to Amaranthas’ house had been a quiet one. Though the Hobbit couched her question in many skilful ways, she received no answer. ‘Something deeply hidden in him.’ she thought to herself. ‘I wonder what it will take to draw it from him?’ She made a mental note to speak to Miz Pio about this, though she could just see the Elf now, shaking her head in irritation at her.

Derufin dismounted from ‘Falmar one the Hobbit’s house was reached, and reached up for her to set her on the ground. He bade her farewell after seeing her inside safely, saying he had promised to do something at the Inn today. Remounting the horse, he waved once to her and urged the horse on with a flick of the reins.

It was a lie that he had task awaiting him. He simply did not want any more questions on that subject. He drew a deep breath and looked up at the clear sky. Spring was a promise on the brisk air as the breeze touched his cheek. Fresh. Renewing. He sang softly to himself as he rode back to the Inn.

As I walk'd thro' the meadows
To take the fresh air,
The flowers were blooming and gay;
I heard a fair damsel so sweetly asinging
Her cheeks like the blossom in May.

Said I, Pretty maiden, how came you here
In the meadows this morning so soon?
The maid she replied: For to gather some may,
For the trees they are all in full bloom.

Said I: Pretty maiden, shall I go with you,
To the meadows to gather some may?
O no, sir, she said, I would rather refuse,
For I fear you would lead me astray.

Then I took this fair maid by the lilywhite hand;
On the green mossy bank we sat down;
And I placed a kiss on her sweet rosy lips,
While the small birds were singing around.

And when we arose from the green mossy bank,
To the meadows we wander'd away;
I placed my love on a primrose bank
While I pick'd her a handful of may.

Then early next morning I made her my bride,
That the world might have nothing to say;
The bells they did ring and the birds they did sing,
And I crown'd her the sweet Queen of May.

His voice faltered on the last verse and was silent til he reached the Inn.

*********

Derufin dismounted and led ‘Falmar toward the stable. ‘Come, my fine girl. I’ll get you unsaddled and free of this bridle.’ He took her into one of the stalls and wiped her down well, talking gently to her as he did so. ‘I’ll see you another time!’ he called, giving her a handful of oats and walking out to the Inn’s yard.

An odd sight caught his eye as moved toward the Inn. There, on the side of the building were two small doors, flung open at the base of the wall. And from the entryway there, he could see the top of a curly head bobbing back and forth. He approached closer, trying to see who this was and what they were doing in what appeared to be the chute to the coal cellar. It was an odd way, he thought to be trying to clean it, if that is what they had intended.

He crouched down behind the mass of curls and spoke loudly. ‘Are you in some difficulty? Can I offer you my assistance?’

Hirilaelin

01-21-2003, 05:29 PM

Hirilaelin sighed, and stepped outside the inn. A gentle breeze caressed her face, and the sky was clear. She turned, ready to walk back down the lane, when she saw a curious site. Someone was crouched down by something that looked like a dirty mop. She walked closer. It wasn't a mop, but the top of a head. The person next to it looked like he had just dismounted from his horse. She walked still closer, until she was standing next to the pair. If it could be called a pair. "What are you doing, if I may ask?"

The man looked up. "Well, someone seems to be stuck down there."

Hirilaelin was puzzled. "Down there?" she said.

"Yes," the man replied.

"But," said Hiri in confusion, "that looks like the chute to the coal cellar!"

"It is indeed." Hiri frowned again, then smiled. This man seemed friendly. She spoke up again. "What is your name good sir?"

[ January 21, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

piosenniel

01-21-2003, 05:34 PM

Pio had seen 'Falmar come up to the Inn with Derufin astride. Walking quickly through the kitchen, she grabbed an apple from the bowl on the counter and ran to the stables.

As she exited the back door, heading toward the barn, she heard a familiar voice speaking. Derufin! Pio rounded the corner of the Inn to see him crouched down, and speaking into the coal chute.

Approaching closer, she called out. 'Is there a problem?'

Hirilaelin

01-21-2003, 06:03 PM

Hiri turned around from the man and the coal chute when she heard a call. It was a woman, asking if any assistance was needed.

She called back, "I don't know! Someone appears to be caught in the coal chute,but we have no idea who. Do you maybe?"

[ January 21, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Rosemary Took

01-21-2003, 08:20 PM

Rosemary gulped down the last of her ale. Overall this day had been quite uneventful and she was feeling much more bored than she thought she would, even though she'd had at least 3 pints of ale. There seemed to be some commotion at the back.Maybe I ought to see whats going on.

Plucking up her courage she walked round the back, an elf woman was standing there who seemed quite worried. Looking around she could see that there was a coal shoot and to her surprise there was someone inside of it! At first she felt like laughing but thought better of it and said,'Umm... Is there anything I can do to help?'
This was really a strange thing, a hobbit stuck up a coal shaft while Rosemary actually talked to one of the Big People, a definite first for her.

piosenniel

01-21-2003, 10:54 PM

A small crowd was beginning to assemble around the bizarre scene concerning the coal chute. Pio walked closer for a better view. Her eyes flew wide at the familiar mop of unruly curls.

She smiled at the Hobbit's sneaky antics. then a grinned widely, and finally a loud laugh spilled from her, frightening some of the smaller Hobbits. Pio saw the curly head try to duck down lower in the chute as if to make itself invisible.

She reached down, quite unceremoniously, and took hold of the filthy, sooty collar. Giving a great heave, she pulled the hobbit up and out of the chute and plunked her down in a dusty heap on the ground.

Two brown eyes, in a sea of white, peered out from the coal blacked face, and a sheepish grin spread on the tarry face. Pio tapped her foot on the ground and looked squarely at the Hobbit.

'By the One, Camellia Goodchild! What did you think you were doing now?'

Child of the 7th Age

01-22-2003, 12:25 AM

'By the One, Camelia Goodchild! What did you think you were doing now?

Cami cleared her throat, and wondered how to respond. She had initially intended to slip in the back way so no one could put their nose into her business. Only now, half the visitors to the Dragon were congregated about her, listening intently for her answer to Pio's question. This was not good.

For one minute, she envisioned concocting a fancy tale to explain away her reckless behavior so that all these folk would go home and leave her in peace. But somehow lying did not seem like a good idea. She was about to make one of the most important decisions of her life, and starting it with a giant fib didn't seem right.

Yet, still Cami hesitated. There is an ancient custom among hobbits that certain things are officially kept secret until after the ceremony occurs, and, even then, couples may go off for two weeks or more, leaving behind no address. Cami was a great respecter of tradition and was not about to break with the past.

"I'm sorry Pio. I can't tell you anything now. I have a good reason, but it's private!" At the back of her mind, she added, There are too many folk here to discuss all this. Wait till later and we'll talk. She hoped her friend had heard and understood.

One of the female hobbits leaned over and whispered a few words to the other. Then she giggled and called out, "Camelia Goodchild, keeping secrets? That's very suspicious. Are you finally getting married?"

Despite the soot and grime, Cami held her head up high and walked away from the crowd, heading towards the kitchen door. As she went to pull it open, she impishly turned about and yelled back to the two giggling figures, "If I was, you'd certainly be the last to know!" Cami slammed the door with relish, and went upstairs to draw a bath, singing merrily as she went.

[ January 22, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Everdawn

01-22-2003, 05:17 AM

Snowdrop looked after Cami in wonder. "oh... I wonder what its like to be married!" she sighed in her hobbit girlish manner. Umbria spoke from over the other side of the room "more wonderful than you can imagine."

Bebberyn removed his hand from his sword hilt and sat down.

astarielle

01-22-2003, 06:03 AM

Astarielle wondered where Hirilaelin had gone as she had gone into a dream world, as she often did when she had travelled far. She noticed a crowd of people outside and wondered wheter Hiri was ther as she would like to talk to her.

She drew her cape around and ventured outside. She called out "Hirilaelin! Mae Govannen! Hirilaelin!"

Engwaavarion

01-22-2003, 07:11 AM

The door quietly opens and closes as a hooded, cloaked figure silently steps into the common room. Throwing back his hood,his cloak sweeps aside revealing an elf with a curved sword at his side and a longbow at his back with a quiver of arrows. He scans the gathering slowly beforing seating himself at an empty table in the corner, but not before ordering a glass of wine.

He did not look to be quite like the other elves. He stood fairly tall as is common with all Elven kind, dark brown hair, and a green and brown outfit finished the picture. He is fair yet something mysterious is about him, almost like an aura surrounding him, as he sits quietly apparently brooding about something...

[ January 22, 2003: Message edited by: Engwaavarion ]

Falathion

01-22-2003, 08:25 AM

"Noh, NOH!"

Turgon snarled in his sleep under his wet beard.

"Stay away yer stincking ratszzzz...."

He gave a large snork, then continued to sleep in all his merry.

"STAY AWAY!"

He suddenly yelled and got half way up, for a moment opening his eyes, half awake, half asleep. He then fell asleep again, half standing. He collapsed together and hit the corner of the table, the mug tipped over and hit the floor with a crash, before the dwarf roll over onto the floor, continuing his sleep.

Hirilaelin

01-22-2003, 09:43 AM

At hearing a call, Hirlilaelin turned around. It was the young woman she had spoken to earlier! "Astarielle!"

Astarielle walked up to her. "Hullo, nice to meet you," Hiri said to her. "We are investigating this." She pointed down to the ground a considerable crowd was starting to gather. "Someone seems to be stuck in the coal cellar chute."

Astarielle laughed, then looked down where the mop of hair could be seen. "Why would they be down there in the first place?" Hiri shrugged her small shoulders.

"Well," said Astarielle, "I was just looking for you!"

Hirilaelin grinned and said, "One person took notice of my speech then! Do you want to go back inside the inn for a drink, and are you going to stay long? I myself am new to the Shire."

[ January 22, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Farrehn

01-22-2003, 03:56 PM

A long figure clothed in a green velvet cloak made her way down to the Green Dragon. She saw from afar a crowd gatherd about against the Inn, and wondered to herself what was happening. She strode up to the crowd and tried to look around the Elves, Hobbits and Men gathered against the Inn.

"What pray is going on?" she asked to no one in particular.

She was half-Elf, for her mother was of Elfkind. Her father, however, she did not know, so she only introduced herself as a half-Elf. Her hair was long and golden, with gemlike eyes that shifted between the sea's green and sky's blue. She was fairly short for an Elf and twice a light (if possible) her hands were slightly curved with jagged knuckles hidden in her pale skin.

"Hullo! What is happening?" seh asked louder after a while being unanswered.

[ January 22, 2003: Message edited by: Farrehn ]

astarielle

01-22-2003, 03:58 PM

"Yes I would like that very much, as it is getting a bit chilly" said Astarielle. " We can work out how to get the hobbit out of the hole"

The two friends stepped into the warmth of the inn and made thaie way through the crowds to the bar. Astarielle says "I am sorry for not talking to you earlier but I was weary from my journey and needed to rest. If I do not reply to you in future it is because I am meditating but I will get back to you in the next day or so"

"So are you and elf, a hobbit or some weird half breed I am not familiar with?" Astarielle said to her new found friend, Hirilaelin.

Hirilaelin

01-22-2003, 05:13 PM

Hiri and Astarielle sat down at the bar, and Hiri ordered two ales.

"Well," began Hiri, "I am a hobbit, and I have just moved here from Bree. My mother wanted to live somewhere quieter." She grinned. "I like it here, though I don't really know anybody yet." Picking up her ale, she took a sip. "Where do you come from?"

Lumiel

01-22-2003, 06:49 PM

Lumiel continued to sit in the corner by herself, merely watching, but not joining the others in the tavern. She sighed. She ached badly for companionship, but she still felt shy around most people...namely the elves, she thought mentally with a sigh to herself.

So many people had plans, they were discussing them merrily with friends. She had no real, set plans in mind. But she did have a Quest to complete. As she gazed once more around the Green Dragon, she noticed an elven woman walking in, with light, golden hair and strange eyes, so similar to her own. She watched with curiosity as the maiden's eyes shifted from a frothy sea green to a beautiful baby blue, like the sky. She was glimpsing in this woman what other people saw in her own face when they looked at her. She instantly felt a kinship with the woman. She wondered if she should introduce herself or not, her shyness struggling with her curiosity.

As she pondered this, she realized that the woman was asking a question. This would be a good opportunity to introduce herself.

"Vedui, friend! Nothing is going on besides the usual for a tavern such as this, though my experiences of taverns are very few indeed. My name is Lumiel."

((spoken to Farrehn))

As she spoke, she waved to call the woman's attention to where she sat as she smiled warmly, her own eyes going from a dark, grey blue like a winter twilight to a warm moss green of summer.

Sword Maiden Of The Shire

01-22-2003, 07:21 PM

Pippin laughed at the whole cole chute inccindet, but not too loud, for she dodn't want Cami to hear her. "Say Pip," said Merry smiling "That reminds me of the time you got stuck in that mud near the Forest and I had to pull you out!" He laughed loudly."You sure looked nice when we got home, covered in mud from head to toe!"

Pippin grinned evily at him "And it also reminds me of the time you fell out of that tree and nearly hit every branch on your way down." She too laughed loudly at this "The poor tree!" Merry nudged her in the side hard when some of the guests looked up,amused.

theWhiteLady

01-23-2003, 08:22 AM

The dark haired lady turned her keen eyes upon Laurie and softly asked for a drink. She looked very tired, and Laurie quickly went to fetch her a warm cup of tea. But returning with the mug in her hand, Laurie saw that the young woman had fallen asleep where she sat, her cloak fallen forward hiding her face once again. Setting the cup down softly, Laurie tried to make her a bit more comfortable before leaving her to rest.

Laurie walked to the bar, and unaware of the events outside, wondered where Pio and Cami had run off to...

Eruwen

01-23-2003, 02:32 PM

Rave woke up again some time later. The long sleep had worn off, and she decided to go outside to tend to her horse, Melimo, for a short while.

As she walked outside, Rave noticed the day had grown much later than she had thought. The sun was very high in the sky as it shone down brightly on the vast landscape of the Shire. This truly was a magical land much different than that of which she had seen.

Upon entering the stables, Rave brought over a stool and set it beside of Melimo to sit upon. She began thinking of home as she stroked the horse's beautiful, white hair. These memories quickly brought back an eager question to her mind of which Rave had wondered for years. The mystery of her past brought sadness to her eyes.

Getting up once again, Rave decided to return to the inn and see if she could find anyone who could help her in the search of her past. She once again opened the door to The Green Dragon and entered quietly approaching the bar.

[ January 24, 2003: Message edited by: Eruwen ]

Child of the 7th Age

01-23-2003, 03:07 PM

Cami was upstairs taking a very, very long bath. She could not present herself downstairs until her face was washed and her clothing changed.

She got out of the tub and slipped a clean gown over her head. Then she headed downstairs to the Inn to see if any help was needed. She devoutly hoped that no one remembered the incident of the coal chute, or the strange words that had been spoken by the two cheeky hobbits just before she'd come into the kitchen.

Still, coal chute or not, she was in a happy mood, and went downstairs singing a sweet hobbit air.

theWhiteLady

01-23-2003, 03:15 PM

Having fixed herself a mug of tea for her own, Laurie rested her elbows on the bar and warmed her fingers, grasping the cup close. The steam rose up and made her eyes tear from the heat, but it felt pleasant against her face and began to turn her cheeks a pinkish-red. There was a low murmer of the customers talking around her, filling her ears and soothing her soul. Laurie began to wonder where her paths would lead her and how long she would stay at this pleasant inn. She began to watch the motly assortment of peoples around her, wondering from whence they came and where they would be going...

To her suprise, Laurie noticed the young lady who had fallen asleep, enter the inn and walk towards the bar. She seemed to be searching for something, or someone. Laurie watched her approach with curiosity, and when the lady glanced in Laurie's direction, Laurie looked into her eyes, inviting her to come over is she wished.

[ January 23, 2003: Message edited by: theWhiteLady ]

Farrehn

01-23-2003, 03:59 PM

(((Responding to Lumiel)))

She turned when she noticed someone speaking to her and smiled.

"Well met Lumiel! I am Farrehn Silvertip. From the Northlands! But I fear I do not know the language of the Elves, for I was never raised by them. Forgive my shrewdness," she introduced, folding her hands over her clavicle and touching her chin, then bowing. It was the custom of how she was raised.

"It is well to know a friendly face is such a pleasent place," she smiled again. Her eyes shifted from their color to a green. The warmth of her smile showed she was neither shy nor anxiouse.

"Well, since this is no ill matter, I shall come and sit with you, if you would have me," she offered to Lumiel.

[ January 23, 2003: Message edited by: Farrehn ]

Eruwen

01-23-2003, 05:44 PM

Rave looked up as she came closer to the bar. The woman she had seen earlier seemed to be sitting there---and looking her direction! With a slight hesitation, Rave walked up and approached the woman.

"Hello," Rave began as she sat down in a stool next to her. "I don't believe I got a chance to introduce myself earlier. I guess I was just a bit tired from my long journey. I'm fine now though. My name is Rave."

"Welcome to the Green Dragon Inn." said the woman. "I am Laurie of Rohan."

"Rohan?" Rave said surprisingly as she took the cup of water she had ordered. "I indeed am from Rohan myself. Although, I do not deny I originally was from another city. Maybe you could help me on this? I was looking for someone who might know of how I first arrived there. I was so young, I do not remember much. All I was told is I was of another land, a different people than those I grew up around. Would you know anything of this?"

Laurie lowered her head then looked into Rave's bright, green eyes. Rave could tell this woman did not have any answers for her. Hope faded from her heart as Laurie answered.

Lumiel

01-23-2003, 07:44 PM

"Well met, Farrehn Silvertip. Please, come join me."

Lumiel motioned to a seat at the small table where she was sitting, and watched as Farrehn walked over and sat down, smiling pleasantly.

"It may surprise you that I was not raised by elves either, though I know their tongue. You look elven, I'm surprised you do not know elvish."

She realized that she was prying into business that did not concern her and looked away, a rosy blush coming to her cheeks as her eyes seem to shift to a shady blue-grey.

"I do not mean to pry into your business...that was not right of me to ask. But I am curious...." Lumiel kept her head down but shifted her gaze up to Farrehn with polite curiosity, which helped to accentuate her youthful appearance, which was young even for an elf.

piosenniel

01-23-2003, 10:14 PM

Pio stood behind the counter of the bar making a list of the supplies they would need to carry them through the next week. Head bent over the paper before her, she ticked off each entry with her pen as she estimated what it would cost. Despite the outlay for the party, it had been a profitable fortnight for the Inn. They could well afford to lay in a few luxuries and extras for their customers.

She paused for a moment, smiling, and stared off into space, eyes unfocused. The song came unbidden to her lips, and she sang the words softly to herself.

“O fare you well, I must be gone
And leave you for a while:
But wherever I go, I will return,
If I go ten thousand mile, my dear,
If I go ten thousand mile . . .”

Mithadan was on his way to her, and her heart leapt at the thought of it.

It was a two month journey from Gondor to the Shire on horseback. Just enough time to get to the Shire before the twins were born. He had left the day he received her letter, riding hard to the north and west. And he did not tarry as he passed through the country side along the Great West Road, only stopping for food and sleep and a change of horse as was needed.

Her thoughts were on him now as he rode the last stretch from Edoras to the Fords of Isen. She sensed his delight as her mind brushed his. We await you, beloved! she called to him. Keep safe as you ride to us.

Pio bent back to her task, her eyes refocusing on the list before her. Still, a smile played about her lips, and she placed her hand lovingly on the swell of her belly. Soon, sweetings, soon. Your atar is coming. They pushed against her hand, gently, in response.

She could not help but notice that Cami was also in a good mood. The Hobbit wore a soft, dreamy look and she, too, sang as she walked down the stairs. Pio waved her quill at Cami, and catching her attention, motioned her over. She patted the seat beside her and bade the Hobbit sit with her for a moment.

From under the counter she brought forth her silvered flask of miruvor and two small silver cups. ‘It appears we both have something to celebrate today, little Andreth.’ she said quietly. She poured them each a measure of the jeweled nectar.

‘Mithadan rides north to the shire. He will be here in a month’s time. In time for the birth of his son and daughter on Midsummer Day.’

She raised her cup to Cami and drank it down. ‘Now tell me, what is the news you wish to keep so secret. Bilbo spoke to me in part of it. But I questioned him not on the details until he could speak with you . . .’

Child of the 7th Age

01-24-2003, 12:48 AM

Cami nestled into her seat and took a little sip of miruvor to give her strength. It slid down her throat with such sweetness, yet it burned hot against her lips and mouth. Not too different from the rest of life, she thought.

"Pio, I'm glad that Mith will be coming. I know you'll be happy, and I'll be very glad to see him. I also have news. But my news carries a little sadness and a great deal of joy. I scarcely know how to explain this. And I am afraid the tale will not be short."

She stopped a minute and thought, then started speaking again in a softer voice. "You probably know more about this than I do. I have never been to the West as you have." She looked curiously up at her friend, not wishing to cause her any pain, but she saw no hurt or regret, only curiousity and concern reflected in the depths of Pio's eyes.

"Bilbo's time has come to leave Tol Eressea and go forward on his final journey." Cami spoke the words slowly, wishing that she could will them away. But truth was truth, and it was better not to deny it.

"For the most part, he's ready to go. He believes that Frodo is healed enough to continue on his own. That's a tale that bears telling another day. I do know that Bilbo purposely waited until Frodo sorted out a lot of things that were left over from the dark times."

"But Frodo wasn't the only hobbit whom Bilbo befriended. All through the years, Bilbo reached out to some of the younger hobbits in the Shire, inviting them into Bag-end to listen to stories or share his love of Elves and adventure. Most were distant kin like Angelica Baggins, or Merri, or Pippin. A few were neighbors like Sam and myself. He's always felt a little responsible for us, and, to the extent that he was able, tried to keep an eye on how we were doing."

"He spoke with Gandalf in Tol Eressea, and, to be truthful, I'm not totally sure what happened. It sounds as if he may have dug in his heels and refused to go anywhere until he was sure all the youngsters he'd known in Hobbiton were comfortable with the choices and lives they had made."

"Gandalf answered many of his questions, and Bilbo was relieved, since all his friends had managed to resolve things on their own and were quite happy with how their lives had turned out. That is, all except one." Cami's voice sounded wistful and just a bit embarassed.

She sighed and went on. "Gandalf told Bilbo about the Star, and how the book he gave me as his farewell gift led us on a chase for lost sea hobbits and hobbit history. Pio, Gandalf told him everything,....everything, including what happened to Maura and I. Even some unpleasant things that have happened in Greenwood that you and I haven't had time to discuss. I think Bilbo felt responsible for some of those things, even though he really wasn't."

"Pio, you don't know Bilbo well, but I will say this. He can be an amazingly stubborn hobbit! And, to tell the truth, Gandalf has always had a soft spot for him. I take it there was a considerable amount of squabbling and disagreement in a minor hobbity sort of way, but in the end the three of them--Gandalf, Bilbo, and even Frodo--came up with a plan to set some things right."

Pio looked over at her and smiled, "Go on! You've captivated me with a long and mysterious prologue. Now I'd like to learn the rest."

"I'll try, but there are parts I don't understand myself. It has to do with dreams and special places, and how sometimes you have choices, and sometimes things happen that aren't really supposed to happen. So then there may be ways to help straighten things out." She sighed and went on, "I don't even understand how I got here. I went to sleep one night after speaking wth Gandalf, and I woke up in this bed! Anyways, I don't think hobbits were meant to untangle such difficult knots."

Pio looked over and laughed. Cami was being unusually cryptic. The Elf took her hand and said with some emphasis, "Forget the confusing part. Tell me what's happening now."

Cami blushed, and looked Pio in the eye. "You have to promise to tell no one this, absolutely no one. Not Mithadan, not Bird, not a single person. Not now and not later. Gandalf will come. He has a letter for me, a letter in which Maura will ask for my hand. And, if I accept, we will be allowed to marry and spend a few brief weeks together to seal our vows. And then that time will end, and we will part again, each of us returning to our own age." Cami said it very calmly and quietly as if she were describing the most natural arrangement in the world.

"I'm not sure how or why, but that's what's being offered to me. I think Bilbo understood something even I have been reluctant to admit. Maura and I were intended to marry. Now we have a chance to fix that mistake."

"Cami," Pio's voice was very gentle, but with an underlying tone of urgency. "Are you sure you want to do this? That hurt has healed a little. If you see Maura again only to lose him, will you be able to go on?"

Cami shook her head, "I don't think of it like that. Not at all. Whatever I do or say, Maura and I can not be together in this life. Nothing is going to change that basic fact. But I do have a choice. I can be apart and be Cami Goodchild, or I can be apart and be Camelia Took. I want to be Camelia Took, I want to spend what time with Maura I can. We have parted before and I have learned to live with that. That won't change. Even Gandalf can see that, or he would never have agreed to this idea."

"I'm not interested in anyone else, not now and not later. At least not in that way. I have spent the last two months in Greenwood, beating off every eligible hobbit bachelor who would like a piece of me. At least if I was a bride or a widow, I would have a good excuse to chase them all away!"

"I have made up my mind on this. I don't need advice from anyone. But I would very much like it if you could help me prepare for my wedding, and stand up for me."

[ January 24, 2003: Message edited by: Child of the 7th Age ]

Rosemary Took

01-24-2003, 01:18 AM

The hobbit who had been stuck in the coal shute had just reappeared in the inn while Rosemary drank her tea. The hobbit, who she now knew was Cami, and her elf friend, Piosenniel were in deep conversation so Rosemary decided to ask for a room later.

The commotion from earlier on had died down and everyone was back at their seats. They all seemed to know each other in this place, except herself. Looking outside the sun was shining and the Shire had never looked so beautiful. She hadn't been to this area of the Shire since she was young yet she still remembered how much she had loved it. It seemed so nice out doors Rosemary decided to go outside and breath in some fresh air.

[ January 24, 2003: Message edited by: Rosemary Took ]

piosenniel

01-24-2003, 01:20 AM

‘Of course I will stand up for you! You should know better than to have to ask.’ Pio wrapped her arms around her friend, and grinned. ‘There is one minor consideration, though, that we need to take into account.’ Cami frowned at this two edged answer. ‘And that would be . . .?’ she detested it when the Elf started thinking too critically about a problem. It usually meant some chart or map would be pulled out and the solution to the problem dissected and plotted.

Pio raised her eye brows at Cami, as if discerning her line of thinking. Smiling, she pulled the vellum calendar from beneath the counter and spread it out before them. Her finger ran down the page to Lótessë, the month of blossoms. ‘Here’s where we are right now.’ she said, eyes fixed on the calendar, her index finger on 20 Lótessë. ‘This is 21 Thrimidge, here in the Shire. In forty one days it will be Loëndë, Midsummer’s Day. That is the day the twins will be born.’

It was Cami’s turn to raise her eyebrows at this statement. ‘That exact day?’ Pio nodded her head and went on. ‘In a month’s time Mithadan will be here. And I have sent out messages to Bird, also. Though I have not heard back from our wandering friend as yet.’

‘Messages?!’ sputtered Cami. ‘I’ve seen you write one letter in all the time I’ve been here. What messages? Do you sneak out in the dead of night to put them in the Shire Post box?’

This sort of message, Cami. Though I must admit even it has its limitations. No matter how I tried, I could not find you in the time to which you had gone.

Pio withdrew the osanwë link and resumed speaking normally. ‘So, what sort of timeline are we working on for you and your wedding to Maura? Surely Auntie Cami will be here to hold the little ones for a little while.’ She glanced briefly at her friend’s face to gauge the answer to this question. ‘Mithadan is bringing the quilt, Cami. I should like you to carry back the memory of the little ones asleep on it.’ She waited for the thought of that to sink in and hook her.

‘We could plan it now, and then carry it off a little while after Midsummer’s Day. Give me enough time to actually be able to “stand up” for you. What do you say to that? Or are we in some sort of hurry to make this all happen very soon?’

She pulled a blank sheet of parchment from her writing box, with a quill and a bottle of black ink. Placing it in front of Cami, she dipped the pen in the inkwell and handed it to her. ‘I think we should make a list and start doing what we need to do to see this accomplished.’ Pio watched as Cami wrote ‘Wedding List’ in her fine script at the top of the page , leaving a space just below it to write in the date once it had been determined.

Cami’s attention was focused on the task before her. She did not see the perplexed look cross Pio’s face. ‘How in Arda, am I to hide this from Mithadan and Bird?’

[ January 24, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

astarielle

01-24-2003, 04:12 AM

Astarielle sat down and took a long slow sip of her ale. She paused, licking her lips and said "This is good ale."

She turned to Hirilaelin and said in slow yet dutiful tone, "I am form Mirkwood originally yet I have travelled the lands of Middle Earth since I could ride. I know exactly where I have been but never where I will go. I travel where the wind takes me guided by fate. The world is my home"

"I dont know how long I will stay here but all I know is that I was sent here for a reason. If a quest comes along I know I will take part."

Astarielle stared hard into the cloudy swirl which was all that remained of her ale. She looked up and asked Hirilaelin, "Are you looking for a quest too?"

Astarielle started humming an elvish tune while she waited for a reply.

theWhiteLady

01-24-2003, 08:33 AM

Laurie smiled with satisfaction when Rave admitted she had come from Rohan. So I was right, though she does not resemble the Rohirrim... Her thoughts trailed off as Rave's next words explained further. Laurie bent her head and though hard, her forhead crinkling. A moment later, she lifted her head and looked into Rave's bright eyes, shaking her head.

"Oh, Rave. I wish I could help you, but I know nothing of this. But surely there are some clues, from the family you grew up with or the person that brought you to Rohan?" Laurie forced a small smile encouragingly, "I can at least tell you your parents were not of Rohan, judging from your dark locks."

arelendil

01-24-2003, 09:08 AM

The table in the corner had been silent for too long. Elwen spoke up breaking the silence and shattering it in to a thousand pieces.

"Well my friends," spoke Elwen wiping away the tears that still lingered on her cheeks. " the turn to tell a story has moved again. I know that it seems to have missed me but my story was told in brief by the fair Lady Nostawen. Now I feel it is Erulon's turn! I desire to know much of this wanderer how knows much of me! so newly met friend will you not tell us I story? one of how you came to bear such titles that you hold and how you found a friend in every race that I know of?"

Elwen gazed across the dark oak table, stained by much use. Her eyes looked for something that seemed hidden, it puzzled her, but she smiled. and flicked her hair over her shoulder, leaning back in the leather chairs.

Turning to Lady Nostawen she whispered, " this should be a tale to here if what i have hear and read is true." Nostawen nodded her agreement she too had read something hidden within Erulon. But both waited patiently for the tale to be told all in good time!

[ January 24, 2003: Message edited by: arelendil ]

Eruwen

01-24-2003, 09:45 AM

Rave smiled a weak smile. "Thanks anyway." she said with dismay. "I doubt anyone could help me at this point. After this long of time, I pretty much just gave up hope. Who knows, my real family could be dead by now. I was just a child when I came upon your city."

As she took a sip of her water, Rave felt her heart sink. Once again she was left in the dark to her past. She looked up at Laurie.

"So, what caused you to travel all this way from Rohan?" Rave said trying her best to forget the past and move on. "I know that it must have been a long trip over."

[ January 24, 2003: Message edited by: Eruwen ]

piosenniel

01-24-2003, 11:31 AM

Filling a large pitcher with foaming ale, Pio made the rounds of the Inn’s tables to see to the guests. The tray she carried held the ale as well as a large pot of sweet-spice tea, and a bottle of red wine from Rhun. There was also another treat she had recently gotten in, from a trader just up from the hot southern climes. And as she stopped at each table, she left a small dish for the guests to try.

‘Just throw the shells on the floor!’ she said to Merry and Pippin, as they broke open the fibrous casings and munched on the nut within. ‘That apparently is the custom in the southern Inns where these are served.’ She poured the two of them a pint each of ale, and went on her way, crunching the shells beneath her foot as she walked off.

‘Marvelous!’ cried Laurie, in delight, as her fingers popped open another casing and skillfully deposited the nut in her mouth. ‘What are these called?’

‘Peanuts, I believe he called them.’ Pio leaned down to pour a drink for the woman and her table mate. ‘He said they were one of the treats the handlers would give the oliphaunts.’

As she passed the window, on her way to the green cloaked lady and her companion, she spied Rosemary outside, enjoying the pleasant spring day. Pio stopped at Lumiel’s and Farrehn’s table, leaving a dish of peanuts, and full mugs.

Turgon still slept on the floor, his snoring quite loud. Two of the sturdier Hobbits had helped Pio earlier pull him to a quiet corner where he would not be tripped over. He rolled to his side as she passed, mumbling something about glittering caves. A smiled creased his face, and she knew he was happily wandering some bejeweled underground cavern. ‘Happy spelunking.’ she murmured to him as she passed.

The quiet table had come to life, its occupants now conversing among themselves. She left them a generous supply of peanuts and filled their mugs to keep their throats from parching.

At last, she returned to the bar, where Astarielle and Hirilaelin sat, sipping their drinks. ‘Nice Spring day, ladies!’ she said as she topped their drinks. ‘You should be out enjoying the pleasant weather before the rain clouds gather.’ She plopped a bowl of peanuts between them and went back to see how Cami was coming on her list.

Dark Shadow

01-24-2003, 02:19 PM

The Elf walked slowly into the Green Dragon. Returning was always painful. Looking around and seeing how things had moved on without him, how people had carried on their lives, unaware of his absence. It was the same anywhere. He had thought that the inn wouldn’t affect him. He had spent so short a time there, spoken to few, and impressed none. Why should they miss him? But still he felt a strange emptiness. Knowing that you’ll always be alone is all the more agonizing when you know everyone else has someone to share their pain with. They all have someone who cares. No one can care until they understand, and he knew they’d never understand. He didn’t want them to. He would be alone. Always. He appreciated that there were those who tried to get close to him, help him, but he knew they weren’t sincere. They had their own troubles. But he didn’t want help. Pride held him above the others. He would make it. Everything would work out in the end.

It hadn’t been long since he’d left the place, and yet it seemed to him that it had been ages since he’d sat beside the fire, drinking ale and enjoying the warmth. He looked around. Everything was as it had been when he had last visited. Customers had left, more had arrived, but everything was very much like it had been before. He looked to the table where he had sat. But for him things had changed. He couldn’t sit around drinking ale. He needed sleep, and after that he would move on again. That’s how it would always be. His arm was painful, and he was tired. The dust had once again settled on his cloak, where it was joined by more dirt and blood. He sighed, and made his way awkwardly and stiffly across to where Pio stood by the bar.

“You wouldn’t happen to have a room for me would you?” his voice reflected the fatigue and pain he was suffering from. “I could do with some rest.”

With that he stood back to wait for her answer. He took the opportunity to remove the hood again. His hair was dusty, his face unwashed. He stumbled slightly as he stepped away from the bar, and put his hand on a nearby tabletop to stop himself from falling to the ground. He just needed rest. Just rest. That was all. Everything was going to be fine.

[ January 24, 2003: Message edited by: Dark Shadow ]

Hirilaelin

01-24-2003, 02:36 PM

Hirilaelin sipped her ale,savoring its taste, and listened appreciatively to Astarielle's tune before repling to her question.

"A quest?" Hiri laughed. "A hobbit such as myself? Nay, I am sure I would be much to timid for such grand adventures as quests."

Astarielle smiled. "Have you ever had a chance to test your courage? A fire can often bloom of you blow on it a bit."

"A fire Astarielle?" Hiri took another sip. "This is good," she muttered. "A fire? Now you," she said, "look like you could have a fire. You are an adventurerer! A traveler! I am," she paused, "as I said before, a simple hobbit lass."

Astarielle sighed. "You do not do yourself justice, I'm quite sure. You can be surprised how quickly you become bold, when the need arises."

"Ah well, enough of this subject!" replied Hirilaelin to Astarielle's comment. "Tell me of Mirkwood! I know that, long ago, it was a place of evil. Great spiders, darkness..." She involuntarily shuddered. "I hate spiders. Anyway, tell me of it now! What is it like?"

Sipping her excellent ale, she waited for Astarielle's reply.

[ January 24, 2003: Message edited by: Hirilaelin ]

[ January 25, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

theWhiteLady

01-24-2003, 03:01 PM

"So, what caused you to travel all this way from Rohan?"

Laurie sat back and smoothed the fold of her white dress. She smiled a little as she contemplated her next words, but her thoughts were disrupted as Pio stopped by the table with a basket of funny looking nuts. Laurie nibbled on the end of one cautiously before enthusiastically popping the rest in with an exclamation of surprise.

‘Marvelous!’ cried Laurie, in delight, as her fingers popped open another casing and skillfully deposited the nut in her mouth. ‘What are these called?’

‘Peanuts, I believe he called them.’ Pio leaned down to pour a drink for the woman and her table mate. ‘He said they were one of the treats the handlers would give the oliphaunts.’

Laurie's eyes widened and her jaw dropped as Pio walked calmly off to another table. She turned back to Rave who was also eating the strange peanuts and surveying Laurie's expression with amusement.

"Did you hear that? She said oliphants! I thought they were only the stuff of nursery rhymes and old wives' tales! Do you think she was perhaps joking?" Laurie added with a hint of skeptisism; she had often been laughed at for being so gulliable.

Rave laughed and shook her head. "I do not know, I have heard rumours that such creatures exist so perhaps she was telling the truth."

Laurie mulled over this in her mind for a few minutes, snacking on more peanuts as she thought. A moment later she turned back to Rave's original question.

"My home is Rohan, as said before. My father, Eodane, would take me with him on business to Minas Tirith. He is very involved in the relationships between the two countries, and I was his companion on the long rides between home and the White City. Because I was so young, I was allowed to sit in on the many political and theological discussions held in the Tribunate of Merethrond. From these discussions, I learned much about the world outside and the world of elves always fascinated me more than anything else, I could never hear enough of the old tales. Often times, the soldiers and ambassadors from Dol Amroth would tell me the old stories, and even taught me a few basic phrases in Elvish." The lady in white bent her head and sighed before continuing her story.

"I was not content with such knowledge, however. I wanted to see everything for myself and experience such things first hand. So one day, I bid my father and brothers farewell and left with my horse Nell, a few provisions, and an old map. It was extremely rash," Laurie admitted with a laugh, her blue eyes twinkling, "and I soon found out that life in the Wild was not easy. But, some way or other, I found my way to this inn. My journeys have not had any definite destination, except that my paths have always been bent towards the sea. I feel I am drawn there, for whatever reason, and someday I will see the sea, whose waves some have described like the wind rippling through the grass in my homeland." Laurie paused and ate a few more peanuts, returning from her memories. She turned back to Rave who had listened very politely throughout. "Until then, I am happy to be here, the people are fascinating and I feel very blessed to have stumbled upon it."

piosenniel

01-24-2003, 03:01 PM

‘A room?’ she said looking him over thoroughly. Her nose wrinkled in mild disgust at his appearance. ‘You look terrible. Get in with the wrong crowd, my friend?’ She picked up the front of his cloak and examined it more closely. As she thought, it was not just grime from the road, and a few falls in the mud. It was blood.

Pio motioned for Cami to push a chair behind the injured Elf’s knees and she pushed him firmly into it. ‘Get my bag, would you Cami. There. Third shelf down on the left.’ She was used to battle wounds, and this was no more horrific than she’d seen before. She peeled off his cloak and pulled his tunic off unceremoniously. ‘Let us not be shy, Elf’ she spoke gently to him. ‘It is either this, or I cut it from you to take a closer look at that arm. Although, by the looks of it, the shirt is beyond all mending.’

‘What happened here?’’ she asked as she considered the jagged wound. It was deep and the flesh around it was swollen, red and hot. He winced as she sluiced water over it, cleansing out the debris. ‘Hold still now. I’m going to pack some healing salve in it, then bind it for you.’ Her hands were cool and they worked quickly and efficiently to get the task done.

She led him back to her apartment behind the bar with the help of another, and laid him down on the couch. ‘Rest for a while, down here. Then we will take you to a room upstairs.’ She poured him a cup of hot water infused with willow bark, and watched him closely as he drank it.

‘It will help the pain, so you can rest.’ She covered him with a quilt, and went back to the Common Room, saying she would check on him later.

Farrehn

01-24-2003, 04:04 PM

_____________________________________________
"I do not mean to pry into your business...that was not right of me to ask. But I am curious...." Lumiel kept her head down but shifted her gaze up to Farrehn with polite curiosity, which helped to accentuate her youthful appearance, which was young even for an elf.
_____________________________________________

"That is quite all right, Lumiel, I am not withdrawn by curiosity. My mother, Norien, Lady of the Moon, was a fair Elf of the Northlands, far beyond this part of the earth. My father, however, was not of Elfkind, and in his former years was fair and wise among his people. They were cliff dwellers, building high cities fair and white like the peaks of high mountians. I know them well, for I have saught to rebuild them as of late.
My father, Bouthore Scythwing, was the king of my half kindred, the Griffcon. They are not of this world. My mother was decieved in part by him. In the end he killed my fair and sad mother, and by his greedy ways spared me. He brought me up in Shadow and peril and taught me battle and malice. I fled from him in my latter years, and fought against him with Men and Elves in the North. But the Griffcon's song is perilouse, and many fell to his voice and followed him. But I, being half of his kind was not swayed by his song, and in the last hope struck him with my dark blade Cin, and destroyed him on his cliffs. The Free people were relesed from his spell. I came South, in need of healing and peace, for I head these lands were fair and good with healing." Farrehn finished at length. She smiled slightly and reached to her side where her sword, Cin still held his place. She drew the dark blade, slightly out of its scabbard, but dared not to expose the whole thing.
"This is my sword, wrought in evil and shadow, spilling the blood of both Men and Elf, and finally on hisa last strole, my father. I keep him as memory of what evil can do, and what I can do against such powers. Though his handle stings when I hold him, and the blade hates me, I bear him as a warrior would bear a scar from battle, or a fell would by his enemy. He is my past . . . I to forget that would be in itself a crime." she smiled again to show she was not in sorrowed spirits, "I am well, however the outcome came, and I have lived happily since i avenged my mothers death. Do not pity me, for I have paid peril for others." she stopped for a while then looked to Lumiel.

"Well, I have explaied my part of the story, but what of you, Lumiel Elf maiden, why have you not been with the Elf kind in you upbringing? I must hear your story before long!" she said gleefully, willing to listen at all length to Lumiels story.

Frodess

01-24-2003, 05:33 PM

Champignonne had waited too long. It was time to leave like a tree. Like most others, she did not wish to go, but she had to. Again, she thought of her mother, and her message to Rivendell. She knew that she would have to come back her at least one more time before leaving, but now she had a case of wanderlust.

The hobbit got together her small pile of things and told one of the kind folk of the inn that she was leaving. She put a few silver coins on the counter, took a block of cheese, &c., and walked toward the door. She turned one final time and sighed. She felt a sorrow, a pure, sweet melanchly, that she had not found any of her kind. Not hobbits, no, but someone with her strange qualities. By no means was she beautiful, but she had greater expectations than what had happened. She cursed herself a thousand times for having not spoken, but the past is past. And thus she silently took her leave, if only for a few days.

Upon her exit, Champignonne looked forward. She saw the shining stars and the full Moon, ruler of the night sky. A courage came to her heart and she began her walk.

Eruwen

01-24-2003, 07:30 PM

"That must have been some quite of an adventure then." said Rave. "I believe I will stay in the Shire for some time. As you said, the people here, these Hobbits, are quite friendly and welcoming to newcomers. It is very peaceful here."

Rave's eyes scanned around the inn, and then out a window near the door. The night had grown very late. No longer would she see the bright sun shining down upon the land. "If you do not mind, I think I will excuse myself and see if I can find someone around here who could show me to a room. It is getting quite late, and I think I would like to retire now. I guess the long ride today really wore me out."

Sword Maiden Of The Shire

01-24-2003, 07:44 PM

Merry jumped up and went to the window, Pippin followed "What do you think Merry?" she asked him. Merry smiled "I think we have a score to settle in Maggot's field!"

They said goodbye to the guests they had talked to and ran out of the Inn noisily. The cool night air gave them energy, not that they had lost any to begin with. They were running so quickly, they crashed into a hooded figure along the road.

Dusting herself off, Pippin recognised the other Hobbit, "Champignonne!" she said laughing loudly. Merry helped her up "Leaving are you?" "You never said goodbye!" said Pippin smirking "Didn't think we'd find you eh?"

Champignonne regained her senses and turned to them "Y-ye-s" she stuttered "I am leaving" she felt sad knowing that she may not see them as often anymore "It was wonderful meeting you two Goodbye!" she smiled. They were two of a kind, but she was very fond of them.

To her surprise, both Pippin and Merry hugged her and them turned and ran towards Maggot's fields "We're off to claim our prizes!" said Merry running backwards and waving "We'll see you back in Hobbiton!" called Pippin "If you're ever looking for us, check Maggot's fields and the woods beside them!" "And the Dragon!" called Merry. And with this, they both ran swiftly into the tall fields of Maggot's.

[ January 24, 2003: Message edited by: Sword Maiden Of The Shire ]

theWhiteLady

01-24-2003, 08:58 PM

Laurie realized she had tired Rave with her long speech. It was easy to let one's memories sweep one along and forget those who listened. She stood quickly and searched for Pio, who was entering from the door leading to the rooms above. Laurie laid a restraining hand on Rave's arm and motioned with her head in Pio's direction as she spoke.

"Pio can fix you up with a room, she is the innkeeper here. I'm sorry to have rattled on to such length, I wish you a peaceful and restful sleep." The thought of a warm bed made Laurie realize she too was becoming sleepy and she began to contemplate going up to a room herself.

Birdland

01-24-2003, 10:39 PM

Merry and Pippin were leaving the Green Dragon in a state of such excitement that they did not notice the small red fox that nimbly slipped between their feet and dashed into the bar before the massive oak door slammed shut. And this was very odd, considering that the fox was sporting a bright pink patch of spiky hair on the top of his head, and was carrying a small leather pouch slung across his shoulder.

The fox scampered across the polished floor of the Dragon, dodging the feet of Hobbits, Men and Elves, and with a light spring, landed on top of the bar itself, amongst the glasses and crockery.

Here he doffed his pouch, and rummaging around in it with his nose, pulled out a much crumpled and travel stained letter. This he took in his mouth, and standing on his hind legs, he scanned the faces in the room, as if looking for someone who matched a description he had been given.

The letter was addressed:

The Lady Piosenniel
Green Dragon, Bywater, The Shire.

Maegaladiel

01-24-2003, 11:20 PM

A cloaked figure entered the Green Dragon. Emerald eyes cooly scanned the bustling tavern, sweeping quickly over the men, elves, hobbits, and occaisional dwarf that resided within. Several faces turned to aknowledge her entry, but soon turned back to their drinks and tale-telling.

The woman lowered her hood, exposing a waterfall of red-gold hair that cascaded down her shoulders and back. She was clad in a forest green jerkin, brown pants, soft elven boots that came to her knees, and the aforementioned green cloak. One delicate hand rested on the hilt of a sword at her side, the other on her hip.

To all outward appearances, she seemed to be nothing but an oddly-clad woman of the race of men. But this was only half-true.
This woman was named Nahai. She was a Skin-changer, one of a race of ancient shape-shifters that were rare and few to be found in that day and age. Her uncle, Beorn, had fought in the Battle of Five Armies, and had actually met Gandalf the Gray and Bilbo Baggins, the finder of the One Ring of Power. Or so he told her. She was never sure if she actually believed him and his fantastic tales.

She approached the bar and ordered a drink. The dwarf at the counter nodded rather cheerfully and obliged. Taking a slow sip, she looked around her.

There seemed to be quite a bit going on in the Green Dragon. Some people told tales, others sang songs, and many were contented to just sit and listen. Nahai for her part took in everything, applauding the story-tellers and minstrels when appropriate. Half of her wanted to be one of those lore-spinners, wanted to share some of the ancient stories of the dying race of the Shifters. Her other half questioned if anyone would want to hear them. At last the first half won out. As the last note of song faded away, she stood and cleared her throat.

"Would anyone care to hear a tale from a lone adventurer?"

[ January 25, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Falathion

01-25-2003, 04:48 AM

Putting the hand to his head, Turgon opened his eyes just a little bit. The pain would not allow for widdening them more.

"Bah! By Illuvatar! Does all orcs in middle earth march over me head in this very moment!"

He shook it and tried to force forward his focus, but to no help.

"Some mess this mornin brings yeh, Turgon Hardhammer."

He said to himself, letting go of a great sigh as he staggered to his feet.
Dimmly looking around him, he found that he was standing in a corner of the inn, out of everyones feet and everyones eyes. He chuckled to himself, and felt a light inch in his back.

"Shure these hobbits know to give a drunk a confortable bed to sleep off his ale,"

he said to himself chuckling.
Looking around him, he suddenly saw Pio comming out from a room behind the bar. Turgon staggered over as best he could.

"Mornin to yeh, my dear hobbit!"

Turgon said with an ironic grimace on his face.

"Morning, master Turgon. How are we feeling this morning?"

"Not too well me can assure yeh. Would there be possible to get some breakfast for me belly and some cold running water for me throat?"

Pio nodded, and Turgon went over to the table where he had been drinking the evening before.

[ January 25, 2003: Message edited by: Falathion ]

Dark Shadow

01-25-2003, 05:11 AM

He lay back with a reluctant sigh. He was no better than that guard of Gondor who had visited the inn in need of healing a while back. He had been scornful and unsympathetic as he had watched Pio heal the man’s wounds, and now he was in the same situation. He was weak. The thought plagued him, and no sleep came to him. The drink he had been given lessened the pain of his arm, and now he felt strangely numb, but it did not however take away the sting of defeat. His mind could not rest while he carried the burden of weakness. He was weary and needed sleep. Darkness seemed to swirl before his eyes, and finally, sleep came. But it was not the friend he had known before. In his sleep lay troubles of the past, and nightmares of lies and treachery, anger rekindled by newfound hatred.

Hours passed, and Erdaminéon slept fitfully. He was cast into a world where he walked in shadow. There was nothing. Nothing. There never would be. And nothing made sense. He woke, covered with cold sweat. The drink had worn off, and there was a stabbing pain from his arm. He sat up painfully, and looked about the dark room. He could hear voices from the Common Room, happy voices. Voices that did not know of the dark things that lurked outside the Shire. Or of the dark things that lurked almost on their own doorsteps. His cloak was gone, as was his tunic. He began to search franticly, oblivious of his pain, for his sword and bow. His bow he saw nowhere, in fact he didn’t seem to recall having it when he’d entered the inn. Nor when he’d ridden his horse back to the Shire. He knew he had worn his sword beneath his cloak though. He would never have left the precious blade, regardless of what dangers he had to face for it. He felt fear close in on him again. He closed his eyes and sat in the dark, the throbbing pain a mere irritation now. There was no light to see by, and he couldn’t continue his search in the dark. He sat to wait for Pio’s return.

Himaran

01-25-2003, 06:26 AM

"Would anyone care to hear a tale from a lone adventurer?"

Bali excused himself from the table. "Wait a minute to begin your tale, Erulon. There appears to be another new traveler here, which I would like to meet."

He ambled his way over to the strange new woman. She was dressed like a wood elf, but appeared to be of the race of men. A long sword hung at her belt, and her left hand was fingering the hilt.

Bowing low, Bali swept off his cap and greeted the new arrival. "Ah, if your lookin' for good listeners, I know just the place for you. Come over to my table, and the others will be just thrilled to hear any story you got! But first, would yea like a pint of some ale, perhaps? Its mighty fine at this inn!"

[ January 25, 2003: Message edited by: Himaran ]

EAM

01-25-2003, 11:37 AM

Nobody ever noticed a young hobbit girl seated in the corner, silently playing with the golden ridges of her cloak. She had never been here before, and the strange conversations puzzled her. And still, nobody seemed to realize she existed.

Had someone looked at her, they would have realized that she did not look like the normal Hobbiton sort. She looked more like a Brandybuck, or a Took...the golden ridges spoke for that. Her golden eyes, with brandy-brown flecks in them, looked anxiously around her.

Maybe she should speak to someone - no, not yet. She'd wait until someone noticed her. No one knew her name...yet.

[ January 25, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]

Nurumaiel

01-25-2003, 12:45 PM

Don sighed and gazed out the window. Rie was elsewhere, and the hobbit girl was left alone. Everyone in the inn seemed to be so happy. Why couldn't she be happy, too? Why did her parents have to die? Why did she have to be separated from the rest of her family? Why couldn't she have a home?

Don saw Rie talking with Nuru out of the corner of her eye. "She left," the hobbit girl whispered. "She wanted to run away from her family. She wanted to be alone. I want a family."

Rie and Nuru were the only ones at the inn who ever noticed her. She was small for a hobbit child, and she felt even smaller with all the Big People hurrying around. She was so small that they never even noticed her. Just Rie and Nuru. And Nuru hardly ever said anything to her. Rie was the one who was really her friend.

But Rie and I don't have as much in common as I thought at first, thought Don. She's runnin' away from a home.... I'm trying to find one.

Don approached Rie and said in a voice that was almost a whisper, "Rie, do you want to go outside for a moment? I... I want to say something to you."

Rie turned to Don, puzzled, and then followed the girl outside.

A soft breeze played through Don's brown curls as she looked around her. The white clouds were drifting by in the sky, and Don turned her dark eyes up to them. "Sometimes," she said, "I wish I could just go and sit on a cloud, and let it fly me somewhere."

"Where?" Rie asked.

"Some good place," Don replied. "Where I'll have a new family. That's what I wanted to talk to you about."

Rie didn't say anything. She waited for Don to continue.

"I guess what I really want to say to you is simply goodbye," said Don decidedly. "I don't have a family, but I want to try to find one. I can't do that by staying here. So I'm going to wander around the Shire until I find someone who will take me." She turned her big eyes to look up at Rie. "But you're the very best friend I've ever had, except for my twin, and I won't go if you don't want me to."

Don looked down at the ground. "Do you want me to go?" she said in a quiet voice. "Or do you think you can find better for me than a new family somewhere out there? I trust you, Rie."

astarielle

01-25-2003, 02:28 PM

Astarielle thought long and hard. She finally replied, "Mirkwood was not always a desolate, evil place. It was once filled with joy and mirth. I sacoured this time forever knowing it would soon end."

"My family have sought refuge in Rivendell and some in Lothlorien. However I have found solstice in travelling. Few elves live in Mirkwood now, but I know at some point the evil in those woods will be vanquished."

"I see little of my people, only when passing by. I occasionally meet them when out riding."

"We have no need for grand palaces in Mirkwood, we live simply but proudly. The prince's house is very much similar to that of an elf like me. There is not a lot else I can say about Mirkwood, it was once a peaceful refuge now wrought with evil."

Astarielle turned to Hirilaelin and could tell by the expression on her face that she was listening intently to her tale.

"Tell me about your people Hirilaelin" said Astarielle, Hirilaelin sat up with a jerk.

Orual

01-25-2003, 03:35 PM

"Do you want me to go?...Or do you think you can find better for me than a new family somewhere out there? I trust you, Rie."

Rie was not an emotional young lady. She was generally able to keep her feelings below the surface and wait out most of the storm. She did have lots of brothers, after all, and if she got hurt playing she couldn't let them know or they'd tease her. (At least, her twin would.) For the most part, she was able to calmly observe her circumstances, even if she didn't act as the circumstances suggested too often. But this took her completely aback, threw her off her stride like nothing else ever had. She opened her mouth a little, then closed it. This was no time for her normal off-the-cuff remarks, no time for impulsive behavior. She had to think about this. But Don was just sitting there, watching Rie expectantly, waiting for an answer.

Biting her lip, partially out of force of habit and partially to keep back the tears that threatened to come, Rie found nothing to do but fall to her knees and throw her arms around Don. "Don," she said hoarsely. She felt two hot tears running down her cheeks, and hastily wiped them away before the girl could see them. She took a deep, shaky breath and, composing herself, sat back on her heels, her hands on Don's shoulder.

"Don," she said again, this time clearly and firmly, "it's been a while since I've seen my family, but I think about them every night. I know how important family can be. Brothers--and sisters, I imagine--are the greatest treasures a person can have. When my grandmother died, that is, my mother's mother, it was only my aunts and uncles who kept her together while she grieved. My grandsire had been dead since I was a baby. If it hadn't been for her siblings, I imagine that she would've fallen apart. You can't imagine how many times I've looked at you and heard you talk about your family and just wanted to cry, because how could that have happened to you? How is that fair? Child, I almost lost faith in the world after I heard your story." She laughed humourlessly. "But I know that the world isn't always fair, but I realize that I'm an ungrateful, spoiled lass with no appreciation for the blessings that I have."

She took another deep breath. "You have a hard choice ahead of you, Don. A very hard choice. But it's your choice. I don't think that I can interfere.

"Oh, Don, I don't want you to go. You're the closest thing to family that I have here, you and Nuru. But if you feel like you have to go, far be it from me to step in your way! This is your life, Don. You're a big girl, you really are, you're far more mature than I am. I ran away from everything that I had, and I can't go back now. But you're smarter than that--you make up your mind. I'll support whatever choice you make."

piosenniel

01-25-2003, 03:58 PM

Bird! Pio laughed, a light, silvery sound, and inclined her head to the fox. ‘I thank you, Ruscomir. I am in your debt. You have brought news from a dear friend. I will send no reply back with you.' She grinned delightedly at the fox. 'Go see the cook if you wish some food. And I will see that a saucer of ale is set out for you.’ The fox inclined his head toward her, and repaired to the kitchen to find his promised reward.

Pio took the letter from its envelope, reading it carefully, twice.

********
21 Ringarë,Year 7

"The Water Lily", New Osgiliath, Emyn Arnen

Dearest Piosennial,

Please don’t let the name of the town where I am at mislead you. "New Osgiliath" is nothing more than an inn, (Though a very nice inn) here on the shores of Anduin in North Ithilien. The name changes daily, and the settlers and watermen who pass through here argue constantly as to what the name of this new town should be, or even if a new town will be the end result.

North Ithilien is truly a lovely land, and our King never did a better day’s work than when he bestowed the stewardship of this fiefdom on our good Prince Faramir. Though the majority of the labor is still devoted to the restoration of Minas Anor, hardy bands of people of all races have been striking out to settle land and make their fortunes here. The woodland kin of Lord Legolas have arrived, and while they seem disinclined to actually build permanent dwellings (at least that we with merely human eyes can see), their touch on the land has not gone unnoticed, and the woodlands and fields bloom and thrive.

I even actually got to see Legolas and Gimli! They did stop by to sample the ale here at the "Lily". I can’t say that the Elf Prince was much impressed with the accommodations, but the son of Gloin would not bypass a chance to sample the best - in fact the only - ale in the South Kingdom.

You may be asking yourself why, if I am so close to the city, I have not gone farther and sought out Mithadan. I very much intended to do this, but I ran into some misadventure on the road from Dol Amroth, and have stopped here to lick my wounds and recover before moving on. Please don’t worry, I am truly on the mend and will be fit to travel in another week or so. I had intended to inform Mith of my whereabouts, but found when I arrived here that he had taken the "Star" on a trading expedition and was not in the city. And the innkeeper informs me that you are holing up in the Shire! How in Middle-earth did you wind up there? So I have decided that I will wait until I can travel again, and will surprise your errant husband with my unannounced presence when he returns to the city.

Did you get the letter that I sent you before I left Dol Amroth? I hope you have given much thought to the information I discovered in Harad. The second map and drawings are still safe, of course, though I cannot make heads or tails out of what it all means. I hope you have given much thought to the words spoken by the blind shepherd. I truly think this could be an important lead to finding my kin!

Well, the innkeeper’s wife is scolding me. Seems to think the act of letter writing is far too wearying for someone in such a delicate state as I, and she orders me back to bed.

I have been having the oddest dreams of Cami. Seeing her with Bilbo and Maura, of all things. How I miss our little friend. I think of her often, at the oddest times.

Well, six more months, and the twins will be here. I hope you will not force me to travel clear to the Shire in order to see them. Please write to me care of the Dock Master at Dol Amroth to let me know where you will be. In the meantime, after a quick trip to visit with dear Mithadan, I will be returning again to the warm lands of Far Harad. The people there are a suspicious lot, and always seem to speak in riddles, but I really feel that I am getting closer to discovering the fate of the skinchangers.

And now to bed! And now to bed!

With great affection,

Birdie
*******

‘There is no time to write a return message.’ she thought to herself. ‘It has taken three months for this one to get to me. By the time she receives my reply, the twins will already have been born.’ She sighed and shook her head. ‘I know she hates this. She says she has no talent for it. But that simply is not true.’

Pio closed her eyes lightly and let her mind quest southward, seeking her companion.

Auntie Bird! Shire. Three months. The twins. Loendë, Midsummer’s day. Come!

********

Her head ached from seeking her friend so far away. Pio made her way back to her rooms to find a headache powder. She recalled that Erdaminéon was still sleeping on her couch, and she stopped in the kitchen for a mug of tea and a plate of foods for him.

'You look as bad as I feel.' she remarked as she closed the door behind her. 'Try this while I find something for your arm's pain and my pounding head.' She placed the tray before him and went to her medicine pouch to find the willow bark powder.

Reclining on the chair opposite him, after downing the draught, she regarded him as he picked at the food.

'So . . . what happened to you? And why did you come back to the Dragon?' She rubbed her temples gently. 'And speak softly, if you would, my head is pounding.'

[ January 25, 2003: Message edited by: piosenniel ]