[Farael]

At last the four young riders were ready to go. Eostre was the last to arrive, and shortly after they were all packed and ready. The March-Warden excused himself for a minute and came back with two letters. The first was meant for the King’s eyes only (although Horwald acknowledged that a counsellor would most likely read it before it was mentioned to Theoden King). The second, more vital to the rider’s needs, was a letter addressed to Sabert, son of Eafwyn the raft keeper. It would ensure a fast and free crossing of the river. It was a long way to where Sabert and his people worked the rafts, so with a few good-luck wishes, the March Warden sent them off “to adventure, venture and a safe ride back home”. Then they rode, away from the town and the people that had watched them grow since they were all but babies.
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Osmod waited patiently for the March Warden to be done speaking. Then, without looking back, he set off with the other riders. They rode without a specific order and soon they were shuffling back and forth as they talked to each other. At least three of them did, as Osmod stayed just slightly further ahead than the rest. He was not avoiding them and would answer if someone adressed him, yet he did not feel to eager to talk just yet. They were strangers after all.

Almost right after leaving the small town he had started feeling that familiar tickling in the palm of his hands, the knowledge that lots of campfires and moonlit dinners awaited. Yet he forced himself to stay focused on their mission. If it was up to him, they’d ride in big circle for days on end, just to enjoy the wild life. The lives of those he loved might very well depend on his mission, so he swore to himself he would not sway from it.