[Mithadan]

Mithadan's horse threaded its way carefully among the rocks and roots along the banks of the Baranduin. Just a bit farther and Sarn Ford would be in sight. He scratched at a welt on the back of his heck. This trip which had begun so well was now evolving into a bit of a nightmare. He had been roused from his sleep by an incessant buzzing only to find a cloud of midges and stinging flies had descended upon him for breakfast. He had leapt fully clothed into the river to await the departure of the villainous insects, then clambered back out, covering his breeches in mud in the process.

Even his horse had sniffed at him distastefully as he mounted. But by now, Mithadan was beyond concerning himself about a bit of dirt. His journey was nearly over and he would soon see his wife. It had been eight months or more since she had ridden off for her 'short' trip to the north -- far too long.

As his horse splashed through the Ford, he looked up at an Inn which stood not far from the west banks of the river. He had intended to ride straight through to The Shire, but he was painfully aware that his food had run out nearly two days earlier. After a brief debate, he decided that a stop for some lunch and a bit of tidying up would do no harm. He rode up to the stables and dismounted, taking his bag from the horse as the stablehand took the reins. The lad's frown at the condition of the rider changed to a smile as Mithadan tossed him two silver pennies. Then he entered the Inn.

The common room was typical as such places go. A great fireplace took up much of the eastern wall. There was a long bar and a number of tables, most unoccupied at this time of day. A barmaid sauntered over, looking at him dubiously. "Good morning, ma'am," said Mithadan in his politest tones. "A beer and whatever you might have for a weary traveller to eat, please." He placed two more silver pennies on the table in an attempt to encourage her frown to abate. As she walked back to the bar, he heard her mutter, "First that odd lady and now this vagabond. This is shaping up to be a fine day."

When she returned with his beer, he inquired about the 'odd lady'. When the barmaid finished her description, Mithadan grinned and asked where she might be found. The server scowled as if doubting what good bringing together two such persons might do, but answered that the lady had not yet come down from her room. Mithadan settled in and waited...