Post by Tallaith on Mar 13, 2009 11:57:48 GMT -5
This is the chat log from our first part of our journey across Eriador. We walked from Bree-Town to a camp just under the Trestlespan outside Trestlebridge.
((The group gathers at the West Gate of Bree-Town to set out.))
Quelion says, 'I should have made pie, then we'd easily find him.'
Naithion takes his shield from his back and slides his arm into the straps.
Phaerel takes an aleskin from his pack and drinks.
Anormorn adjusts his fingers in his gloves.
Maewynne smiles shyly to Phaerel.
Dolen frowns, "Lets get one thing straight, this man is no simple brigand and he knows we'll be following."
Anormorn says, 'I feel nearly underarmoured.'
Maewynne says, 'Aye, sir. Thank you for pointing this out to those who may not know him.' She smiles to Anormorn a little.
Naithion smirks, "After the thumb breaking I did earlier I have no doubt he knows I'm coming."
Phaerel looks at Mae briefly, and looks away.
Quelion hails Palorus.
Dolen says, 'Aye. It's a long path and one he did not walk, but he's smart enough to set watchmen on the roads, I'm sure he's got enough coin to hire swords."'
Maewynne winces at this, glancing to Phaerel again before nodding towards the gate. "Are we ready?"
Phaerel bows deeply before Palorus.
Anormorn waves to Palorus.
Namlinea bows deeply before Palorus.
Quelion says, 'It didn't even take pie this time.'
Dolen nods to Palorus.
Naithion says, 'I'm always ready.'
Phaerel says, 'Aye, I am.'
Palorus says, 'Let's not wait any longer then.'
Maewynne looks to Dolen. "Lead on, sir. Or shall I?"
Dolen says, 'Before we go, we've precious few scouts and outriders as it is. Keep your eyes on the treeline, all of you. Watch for crossbows or some such.'
((The group makes it's way down the road towards Trestlebridge.))
Phaerel dons his hood and starts off, looking down.
Maewynne glances over her shoulder.
Palorus says, 'Hold.'
Naithion shouts, 'Stay together!'
Namlinea looks confused.
Maewynne looks to Anormorn. "Wait, sir. Everyone should catch up.'
Anormorn inhales deeply of the night air.
Naithion says, 'It is important that we stick together and move as one. Seperate we are weak. United we are strong.'
Maewynne eyes the buildings warily and nods. "Aye, I agree."
Dolen says, 'Easier targets grouped as well.'
Naithion says, 'As Dorben says, "WWTAO. We Work Together As One."'
Palorus says, 'Easier to get into a defensive position.'
Dolen says, 'WWTAO? Is that supposed to be catchy?'
Naithion nods.
Maewynne bites her lip and says nothing.
Naithion says, 'Makes it easier to remember I guess.' He shrugs, "Dwarves."
Maewynne maintains her place carefully between Palorus and Anormorn, scanning the road ahead.
Palorus sweeps each side of the road with a momentary glance, watching for any trouble.
Naithion checks that his sword is clear in its scabbard as he walks. He says, 'Spoil my fun...'
Maewynne smiles to herself.
Palorus hails Foreman Rosethorn.
Maewynne looks up to the sky, judging the weather carefully.
Anormorn says, 'Going to be cool tonight.'
Maewynne nods, pausing so the others can gather once more.
Naithion peers into the distance.
Maewynne says, 'This is to the the easiest part of our journeys.'
Naithion nods.
Maewynne says, 'And this is also the best place to turn back, aye?'
Palorus says, 'Doesn't mean we should let our guard down.'
Naithion says, 'You say that like we have a choice.'
Palorus says, 'You do have a choice.'
Anormorn says, 'Why would we turn back?'
Maewynne says, 'You have every bit a choice, herunya. Because that's the sensible thing to do.'
Naithion says, 'Not if I'm to keep to my word.'
Palorus turns part way, watching the hill.
Maewynne laughs softly. "Very well, then."
Phaerel drinks from the aleskin and wipes his chin, lost in thought.
Beril says, 'Oye travelers... If you headed north, watch the orcs eh?'
Naithion says, 'Thank you for your concern.'
Maewynne nods. "Thank you, sir."
Palorus waves. "Thanks for the warning, friend."
Quelion waves to Beril.
Naithion rolls his eyes.
((There's a fire on the road ahead. Kedwyr, wearing his hooded cloak, waits for the travelers there.))
Maqrin nods to the traveler.
Maewynne eyes the campfire, then smiles.
Palorus hails Kedwyr.
Kedwyr nods to Maewynne.
Maewynne says, 'Aiya, herunya.'
Palorus says, 'Greetings, Kedwyr.'
Anormorn says, 'Well! Suilad, Mellon.'
Kedwyr says, 'I thought you might come this way'
Namlinea waves to Kedwyr.
Maewynne says, 'Lovely evening for a hunt, aye?'
Phaerel bows deeply before Kedwyr.
Kedwyr points behind him to the wagon and sacks of seed. 'One wagon almost made it to Bree.'
Maewynne nods. "Aye, but this many of us on the road..." She looks to the waggon with wide eyes.
Anormorn inspects the wagon closely.
Kedwyr says, 'The delivery agents have been dispatched'
Maewynne says, 'Then we must work as quickly as we can and learn what we may.'
Dolen says, 'No time to be rushing, lass.'
Anormorn kneels and inspects the mud on the wheels.
Maewynne says, 'How then should we go, Dolen?'
Kedwyr says, 'Carefully would be best.'
Maewynne says, 'And we cannot destroy these by burning them. What's the other way?'
Dolen hooks his free thumb in his sword belt and looks around the darkened fields. "Aye, carefully."
((A mysterious traveler appears on the road. She's unseen for now, very sneaky and sly in a hooded cloak.))
Silif trips Phaerel and snickers.
Kedwyr says, 'Aye, to close to town to burn them.'
Palorus says, 'Bury it.'
Anormorn rubs the dried mud between his gloved fingers.
Maewynne says, 'And too close to us.'
Kedwyr says, 'Bury them would be best.'
Maewynne arches an eyebrow at Anormorn. "What have you found?"
Silif pokes Phaerel.
Phaerel looks around.
Anormorn says, 'Peculiar clay on the wheels.'
Kedwyr looks to Anormorn. He nods.
Phaerel says, '...Silif?.'
Kedwyr says, 'You saw that too, eh?'
Anormorn nods to Kedwyr.
((The mysterious traveler appears.))
Silif says, '....you left me to them Trolls...' She slaps Phaerel on the cheek.
Anormorn says, 'What do you make of it, friend?'
Naithion clears his sword from his scabbard in the blink of an eye.
Kedwyr says, 'Interesting part though.....none of the wagon pushers had it on their boots.'
Maewynne glances over, surprised. She edges closer to Anormorn to listen to what he has to share.
Phaerel rubs his cheek. "I would never do that. To you or anyone."
Kedwyr says, 'The wagon was met by the delivery agents, my guess. They came from different locations.'
Anormorn holds out his hand to show the dried clay clumps he rubbed off the wheel.
Maewynne says, 'Where, friends? Do you have any idea?'
Silif says, 'All excuses as you would, I stole ale for you!'
Phaerel says, 'Aye, that you did. Without me asking, however.'
Silif says, 'You cannot imagine what I had to do to get out of that mess...'
Naithion eyes Silif, ready to strike, "I suggest keeping your hands to yourself, girl. I'll not have you striking one under my protection."
Kedwyr says, 'The agents were thugs from the east, but the wagon came from the north. I know not where.'
Phaerel says, 'Nay, stay your hand. She is a friend of mine.'
Silif rolls her eyes.
Dolen crouches where he is and watches the surrounding lands, particularly the road.
Phaerel says, 'Mayhap I did deserve a strike, anyway.'
Silif says, 'Friendly bunch they are...'
Maewynne nods slowly, then spares her attention for the confrontation. She appears uneasy, glancing to Dolen.
Anormorn says, 'East. And North.'
Kedwyr nods.
Phaerel says, 'They're loyal, and protective. It's a good thing to have at hand.'
Silif says, 'Oi you! Better pick your company better eh?'
Phaerel says, 'I was protective of you as well, though I doubt you needed it as much as I thought.'
Maewynne carefully approaches Dolen.
Naithion says, 'You speak as though you know me. Since you do not I suggest you keep your opinions to yourself.'
Maewynne says, 'What do you see, sir?'
Anormorn rubs the clay from his gloves on the corner of the cart.
Silif says, 'You act as if you know me...elf'
Dolen shakes his head, "Nothing. Just dont like having my back unwatched is all."
Silif says, 'Stand aside, if you will...'
Phaerel says, 'Enough. We can be civil, aye?.'
Naithion says, 'Hardly. I act as though you just struck someone under my protection.'
Quelion pats the lad on the shoulder.
Maewynne narrows her eyes at the tone, unsure if she should step into the situation. She nervously turns her eyes back to the road.
Silif says, 'He is lucky he got just that much from me!'
Naithion stares her down, "Had you done more you'd be missing limbs."
Palorus says, 'You need to run back home, girl.'
Anormorn peers into the darkness up the road.
Naithion says, 'We don't have time for this Phaerel.'
Maewynne smiles to Palorus.
Phaerel scowls. "I need no protection from you, Naithion. I swore respect-- but that's the extent. Mind your business.
Silif says, 'Oi, I see how it is'
Palorus says, 'This isn't the time for foolishness.'
Naithion says, 'It doesn't matter if you want my protection or not. I am under oath.'
Maewynne takes a breath and glances to Anormorn, leading up the road. 'It's not safe to stand so still with so many, sir.'
Anormorn nods quietly.
Phaerel says, 'Good for you. DO you mind if I have a conversation without your able hand for a moment?.'
Silif pokes Phaerel in the chest.
Maqrin leaves the quarrel to the others.
Maewynne scans the road with wide eyes, looking back to the others often.
Kedwyr nods to Naithion.
Naithion replaces his sword in it's scabbard.
Maewynne says, 'Hentalye, herunya. For coming.'
Kedwyr says, 'Iqista, herinya'
Maewynne blinks, the darkness concealing the road ahead. 'Will someone look up ahead for us?'
Palorus says, 'Finished with your spat, Phaerel?'
Maewynne says, 'I wish to know what's around that curve.'
Kedwyr nods to Maewynne.
Maewynne watches carefully.
Palorus says, 'Sure found a hothead there, friend.'
Naithion's Elvish eyes watch Kedwyr as he runs ahead until even he can't see him in the darkness.
Dolen watches the trees for his part.
Palorus grins at Phaerel.
Anormorn rubs a thumb across the pommel of one dagger.
Maewynne glances to Phaerel and turns her eyes back to the road, awaiting Kedwyr. 'I don't like being in the open at all.'
Naithion checks his javelin while he waits to make sure it's clear in its holder.
Kedwyr bows deeply before Maewynne.
Maewynne says, 'Anything?'
Kedwyr says, 'The tracks did not veer east or west. They come from the north as I had guessed.'
Maewynne says, 'North alone...'
Palorus says, 'Good.'
Maewynne says, 'Aye, we'll camp on the far side of Trestlebridge tonigt.'
Kedwyr shakes his head. 'Not good.'
Maewynne says, 'Watch carefully... The cover of trees may be more dangerous than the open road. How so, herunya?'
Kedwyr says, 'The lands to the north are watched by the last of the Dunedain. It would be an elusive foe indeed to slip past their nets.' He frowns.
Anormorn agrees with Kedwyr.
Palorus says, 'Perhaps. They do have their hands full as well though.'
Maewynne looks to the road carefully. "What do you suggest then?"
Phaerel takes the aleskin out again, considering it for a moment before drinking.
Maewynne looks back to Phaerel and frowns.
Naithion says, 'The Dunedain are few. They cannot watch everywhere.'
Anormorn smiles to himself at Naithion's statement.
Maewynne shakes her head slowly. "And there are many of us, so many we'll be easily noticed as we pass."
Kedwyr looks to Maewynne. "This is an elusive foe, herinya. We must be wary. He is no fool I think."
Maewynne runs her hand through her short hair. "Aye. I was wary of as much." She adjusts her pack.
Kedwyr looks northward. "We will be traversing the Downs soon, and Trestlebridge.'
Anormorn scans the nearby hills and ruins.
Maqrin dusts himself off.
Maewynne looks ahead and sets her jaw. "Shall we make camp?"
Naithion looks around, "If you think that it's a good idea."
Maewynne smiles. "Much better than standing on the road, aye." She narrows her eyes as she scans the road.
Quelion isn't surprised to see Kedwyr crawling up to high places.
Anormorn sniffs the air with a look of disgust.
Maewynne speaks softly to Anormorn..."These roads make me uneasy."
Anormorn whispers, "I smell orcs."
Naithion looks about, "This is Orc territory."
Maewynne nods hesitantly.
Kedwyr calls for a hold.
Maqrin pauses.
Kedwyr looks to anormorn
Maqrin says, 'Orc..'
Maewynne looks to the camp on the left, shivering.
Kedwyr nods and gestures for him to follow
Anormorn lifts his chin toward the west side of the road.
Naithion says, 'No need to stir up trouble...'
Anormorn says, 'I do. An encampment.'
Kedwyr points to the camp "They are very close to Bree. They are confident."
Palorus hails Siwyn.
Siwyn hails everyone.
Kedwyr frowns.
Maewynne nods to Kedwyr. "Aye, bold."
Namlinea waves to Siwyn.
Anormorn waves to Siwyn.
Dolen nocks an arrow as he watches the orcish scout, "More up the road as well, nearly directly on our trail"
Maewynne smiles a little to Siwyn.
Siwyn looks happily at her friends.
Kedwyr looks to Maewynne. "If we try to slip by they could alert others. We may need to be rid of them."
Anormorn says, 'How did they build such a fortress so near Trestlebridge?'
Maewynne nods and unsheathes her blade. "Shall we hunt then?"
Dolen says, 'Oh bloody...'
Palorus says, 'Clear.'
Maewynne glances around and nods. She unslings her shield.
Kedwyr glances around and frowns. "This is not good."
((As the group approaches an orc camp near the road Siwyn joins them.))
Siwyn looks up at Kedwyr.
((The group begins hunting the orcs and wargs in the encampment.))
Maewynne tilts her chin. "There."
Maqrin is pleased with his throw.
Palorus says, 'Clear.'
Naithion kneels beside the dead Orc, inspecting its body.
Maewynne frowns lightly and wipes her blade on her leggings.
Naithion stands up, dusting himself off.
Maewynne says, 'What have you found?'
Naithion says, 'Tarkrips...'
Siwyn shakes her head grimly.
Naithion says, 'Stupid... yet still dangerous to the inexperienced...'
Siwyn nods.
Maewynne nods. "Where's Kedwyr?"
Anormorn says, 'You know of these orcs then?'
Phaerel bows to Siwyn. "Hello, my lady. I didn't notice that you'd joined us!"
Dolen nods approvingly at the javelin toss.
Maewynne shivers lightly. "Do you think we're safe to move on?"
Kedwyr nods.
((Another traveler was fighting orcs in the camp and the group helped him reach safety. He sits on an embankment.))
Beril sits down. 'Move along... I'll watch your backs from these orcs once I've recovered from this wound... Thanks for the help.'
Maewynne says, 'Our thanks. Travel well.'
Maqrin nods.
Palorus salutes Beril.
Beril nods wiping blood from his eyes.
Maewynne nods towards the orc on the rise.
Siwyn points at Tarkrîp Grunt.
Anormorn says, 'Kedwyr, had you noticed the barrels at the camps?'
Kedwyr frowns "The orcs run rampant where they please."
Maewynne says, 'Barrels?'
Kedwyr nods.
Anormorn says, 'In the defenses.'
Maewynne says, 'What were they for, sir?'
Anormorn says, 'Like that one, over there.' He points something out.
Siwyn wonders.
Kedwyr arches a brow. "What was in the barrels?"
Dolen holds his hand out, palm up, then frowns up at the rain.
Maewynne nods. "Aye, what does it mean?"
Naithion pulls the hood on his cloak up.
Anormorn says, 'Could they be the type that the hobbits use for transporting their pipeweed?'
Dolen pulls his hood up as well.
Siwyn ponders this.
Maewynne bites her lip. "Aye, they could."
Phaerel dons his hood as well, frowning at the rain in disgust.
Kedwyr looks to Anormorn. "Then they must have sent some to the Shire as well. This news is bad."
Maewynne sighs delicately. "Ah. Lovely weather. Will help us with visibility too."
Siwyn gets out her cloak and hides under it, glowering at the rain.
Kedwyr looks northward. "Trestlebridge is up ahead, we can stop there for supplies."
Maewynne blinks the rain from her eyelashes, frowning deeply.
Anormorn eyes the cliffs to both sides warily.
Maewynne pauses, looking back to Anormorn pointedly. 'Is it safe to pass?'
Naithion pulls his cloak off and puts it around Maewynne, pulling the hood up over her head.
Anormorn says, 'I believe it to be. No smell of orcs from the North. Only charred wood.'
Maewynne smiles to Naithion quickly and pulls the hood tightly around her face. She nods. "We'll try to find shelter there then."
Dolen nocks another arrow and keeps his eyes on the trees behind them.
Phaerel says, 'The burning smell is likely Trestlebridge, then. It's in ruin lately, and the townfolk aren't able to do much about it, it seems.'
Naithion doesn't seem bothered by the rain in the least.
((The travelers finally arrive at the gates of Trestlebridge.))
Maewynne nods shortly. She speaks softly to the guards and nods.
Phaerel toasts the guard with his aleskin and drinks.
Maewynne holds up a hand to still her companions. "This is the last place for provisions and any comfort before we reach Tinnudir. Do what you must here and do it well."
Palorus says, 'So far so good. I expect it won't be from this point on.'
Maewynne shakes her head. "Not in the least, sir."
Phaerel says, 'Aye, the dead wake in the fields beyond.'
Dolen removes his arrow from his bow and slips it back into the quiver at his hip. He looks to Maqrin, "Fine toss back there. Never seen a man take bear that size with a single spear before. Not without it running itself down, at least.'
Naithion says, 'Javelin.'
Anormorn says, 'Dead, eh?'
Phaerel says, 'Well... undead, if you will.'
Anormorn says, 'Like the Barrows?'
Phaerel says, 'Indeed.'
Siwyn smiles quietly at Kedwyr.
Anormorn nods, tight-lipped.
Phaerel says, 'Unpleasant bunch. No manners.'
Palorus says, 'Worse than Barrows.'
Kedwyr smiles to Siwyn.
Siwyn looks up at Kedwyr, trembling.
Dolen looks over his shoulder at Naithion, a questioning expression on his face, but he turns back to the two in uniform without further word.
Siwyn grins very widely.
Naithion says, 'Javelin are for throwing. Spears are for striking.'
Siwyn bows deeply before Kedwyr.
Kedwyr smiles to Siwyn and gestures her to follow.
((A stranger, the one that the group aided at the orc camp, approaches them as they tend to their business in Trestlebridge.))
Beril says, 'Sorry to bother you lot once again... But would you know the best route to Esteldin, I believe it is?'
Dolen says, 'So when one strikes with a javelin in hand, does it then change it's name?'
Palorus says, 'Follow the road out of town.'
Siwyn glows.
Dolen says, 'And at what point in the thrust does that happen?'
Naithion shakes his head, "They are weighted differently."
Phaerel says, 'Aye. Leave by the bridge, and travel the road to the northeast.'
Anormorn says, 'I understand it is far to the east north-east of here.'
Beril says, 'Understood, don't much like being in these parts... But I've got my information to deliever, thank you.'
Dolen says, 'Aye well, a spear to me is a pointed stick, weighted however it may be.'
Palorus says, 'I can show you, friend.'
Naithion smiles.
Beril says, 'If you've got the time, it would be appreciated.'
Maewynne nods to the Man and looks to her companions. "We shall camp near the bridge, friends."
Palorus says, 'I'll return when I can.'
Maewynne nods to Palorus. "Be careful."
Palorus says, 'Always. This way.'
Beril says, 'Lead on.'
((Palorus and Beril head out to Esteldin and the group gets ready to move towards the camp.))
Anormorn blinks the smoke-haze from his eyes.
Maewynne unslings her shield. "Are we ready to rest, friends?"
Kedwyr nods.
Naithion says, 'If you all are tired.'
Maewynne says, 'We should do so while we can, Naithion.'
((The group makes it's way through Trestlebridge and down a very narrow and winding path to a valley beside the river beneath the Trestlespan. There's a wide, open shore and on the far side of the river a sheer cliff face climbs to the downs. The shore is barren, only a bit of grass and rock, and the only sign that anyone has traveled the path is an abandoned stone hut.))
Tynuthiel looks quietly as the people pass.
Dolen pulls his hood back now that the rain seems to have stopped for the evening.
Naithion smiles at Maewynne, "I simply meant that I'm not tired. But that if any of you are we should rest."
Anormorn keeps himself busy by checking dark corners and alleyways.
Maewynne eyes the valley warily. "We would be able to see anything from down there. Provided it's safe now."
Siwyn smiles at Kedwyr scouting.
Naithion peers into the distance.
Maewynne says, 'Aye, herunya?'
Kedwyr nods. "It is safe."
Dolen mutters, "Bloody rain.."
Naithion says, 'The rain is the least of our worries.'
Dolen hefts his bow, "Rather high for one who requires a taut bowstring."
Maewynne gestures at the small clearing. "Can someone lay a fire?"
Naithion says, 'I'd be more worried about someone slitting our throats in our sleep.'
Kedwyr says, 'Orcs were here a while ago.'
Naithion smiles, "Luckily Elves don't need sleep."
Phaerel rolls his eyes.
Maewynne shivers and curls deeper into Naithion's cloak. "Aye, but have they been gone for long enough for us to be safe?"
Naithion says, 'Then you are a fool.'
Siwyn sniffs the air.
Naithion says, 'There is always death to fear.'
Kedwyr scouts the river. "The cliffs are too sheer on the other side. They came by boat. We will need to set up watch".
Siwyn says, 'Shall I send a bird to go look around by air?'
Dolen nods to Siwyn.
Maewynne nods thankfully to Siwyn.
Anormorn agrees with Kedwyr.
((Siwyn summons a companion bird from the sky.))
Siwyn whispers in low croaks to her raven. She points something out.
Kedwyr sits down.
Siwyn says, 'Go Maegaw. Go look about and check for any enemies. Fly far.' She points at Maegaew.
Maewynne settles with her back to the cliff face and watches the area carefully.
Siwyn watches her bird fly high and far.
Anormorn peers upward at the waterfall through the falling rain.
Siwyn sits down.
Naithion stands near Maewynne, settling into the shadows cast by the tree.
Kedwyr smiles at the bird soaring out of sight, thankful for Siwyn's companions.
Phaerel sits down.
Naithion slings his shield on his back.
Namlinea sits with Maqrin.
Anormorn crouches by the fire.
Anormorn sits down.
Dolen sits down.
Maewynne watches over the business of making camp with an expression that's a cross between affectionate and worried. She pulls Naithion's cloak closer around her.
Siwyn chirps and gurgles to her eagle. She points something out.
Naithion says, 'How are you holding up?'
Siwyn sits down.
Kedwyr smiles at Gwaegold.
Maewynne glances up. "Me?"
Naithion says, 'Yes.'
Anormorn stands back up and paces restlessly.
Maewynne laughs softly. "I'm well and expect I shall remain so. It's everyone else I worry after."
Naithion says, 'There's no need. I will die before I see harm come to any of them.'
Dolen lays his bow out next to him and shrugs his pack off. He digs into the topmost pocket and removes a bit of bread, breaking off small chunks to chew on at a time.
Anormorn studies the rough little hut.
Maewynne says, 'Do you think this means I care less for you because you're under oath to me?'
Naithion looks confused, "You care about me?"
Maewynne smiles. 'Of course I do, sir. As I care for all I meet in my travels.'
Naithion says, 'You are a strange woman indeed...'
Maewynne looks perplexed. She glances to Phaerel and then turns to Anormorn. "What have you found?"
Anormorn turns about at the sound of his name, "Hm?"
Phaerel pulls the aleskin, and begins to sing the lay of Gil-Galad under his breath after a drink.
Maewynne nods towards the little building. "Any interest, sir?"
Anormorn says, 'Just that I had not seen it here, the one time I visited before.'
Naithion looks between Maewynne and Phaerel.
Maewynne nods to this. She stands, taking up her little battered war harp and strums the strings lightly. 'Gather, friends, and we'll rest and have some happiness.'
Anormorn smiles a bit at the sound of the harp.
Maewynne says, 'Aye?'
Naithion leans to Maewynne and says softly, "Go to him."
Maqrin stands and stretches.
Maewynne glances to Naithion with a flash of a frown and begins to play.
Maewynne smiles and looks to Kedwyr. "One of your favorites, meldonya."
Kedwyr nods to Maewynne.
Maqrin sits with Namlinea.
Naithion kneels down and pulls one of his gloves off, dipping his hand into the water.
Phaerel sees Mae pull the harp from the corner of his eye, and closes his eyes, awaiting the music.
Siwyn smiles and reaches shyly for Kedwyr's hand.
Maewynne smiles nearly blissfully as she plays. "No matter what your path is shadowed by, remember that light is what casts the darkness you face."
Maqrin looks lost in thought.
Anormorn sits down before the fire and retrieves a honing stone from his pouch.
Kedwyr smiles as he surrenders his hand to the Lady Siwyn.
Siwyn nods to the music, swaying slightly.
Naithion sniffs at the water in his hand.
Maewynne glances to Naithion, her fingers playing with no guidance.
Anormorn inspects the point of one of his daggers, dressing the nicks with the stone with slow, scraping strokes.
Naithion lets the water run from his hand and looks up and down the river.
Maewynne taps her foot in time, worry melting from her shoulders as she plays.
Naithion pulls his glove back on and turns back to the camp.
Maewynne smiles slyly as she coaxes the next song from her strings.
Dolen removes a map from a side pouch on his travelling pack, unfolding it in his lap to examine while he eats.
Kedwyr smiles at the tune.
Maewynne can't resist laughing to herself as she plays, glancing to the gathering in turn.
Siwyn smiles up at her knight, eyes shining.
Anormorn holds the dagger blade out before him in the firelight, admiring the light dancing across the blade. Satisfied with it, he returns it to its scabbard and draws the other, giving it the same attention with the honing stone.
Maewynne speaks very softly, "We'll have a camp here, friends, until we can scout the safest road ahead."
Siwyn nods.
Maewynne glances back at the Elves.
((Quelion and his companion Solinarius appear at the campsite.))
Solinarius waves meekly to Maewynne.
Maewynne continues quietly as she plays, "Mark it well. When we set out again this will be where we gather, aye?"
Kedwyr nods. She nods to Solanarius.
Anormorn finishes sharpening his second dagger, returning it to its scabbard and the stone to his pouch.
Dolen chews on the plain bread, occasionally looking up to peer at the to quiet red-clad individuals.
Solinarius sits down.
Quelion sits with Solinarius.
Maewynne looks to Anormorn, marking his work. She strums her harp awake once more.
Anormorn gives a wondering glance toward Maewynne.
Solinarius enjoys the peaceful atmosphere, not seeing need to speak. Taking in the tranquil scene, he begins to glance around the camp, taking the faces in.
Siwyn smiles dreamily.
Maewynne laughs under her breath as she plays, grinning for a quick moment to Anormorn.
Kedwyr glances to Siwyn and smiles at her lovely face lit by the campfire.
Siwyn blushes, utterly happy to be by Kedwyr's side.
Anormorn smiles despite his serious nature.
Maewynne glances to Kedwyr and his meldanya and quickly again into the fire.
Kedwyr looks to Siwyn. "We had quite the hunt the other day, aye?"
Solinarius leans his head toward Quelion, whispering something in the older Elf's ear.
Siwyn smiles merrily. "Oh yes Meldanya, that we did." She smiles.
Maewynne thinks for a moment. "One last song..."
Kedwyr smiles in rememberance. "Forochel....a fine place to hunt."
Naithion lays his sword across his lap and begins the polish the blade with the care and attention to detail of someone that has a vast amount of experience.
Maewynne smiles once more to Anormorn at her choice of song and falls into her playing dreamily.
Siwyn looks up at her birds circling, on watch, and nods at them in satisfaction.
Anormorn gets a far-off look in his eye as he listens quietly.
Phaerel stares into the fire, expressionless.
Solinarius glances toward Quelion, a mischevious smile gracing the younger Elf's features. Without a sound, he wrapped one arm around the older Elf's shoulders.
Siwyn looks up at her lord, grateful for the fire.
Quelion settles against Solinarius comfortably.
Kedwyr glances into the fire and smiles. "And there I was......facing two Gauredain, one near death and the other rushing me when I saw what was happeneing just beyond my area......"
Siwyn looks worried.
Maewynne looks to Phaerel from beneath her lashes and sighs nearly silently.
Naithion looks around the campfire and hopes that Dolen and Anormorn don't start to get friendly.
((Palorus reappears from his trip to Esteldin.))
Siwyn waves to Palorus.
Kedwyr glances around and smiles. "A man in full armor being torn to shreds by a bear that must have caught him by surprise."
Namlinea hails Palorus.
Siwyn wonders, worrying.
Siwyn looks up at Kedwyr. "Was he all right?"
Solinarius lets the fingers of his free hand gently sift through Quelion's hair.
((Aradrian joins the companions near the fire, appearing quietly.))
Aradrian begins to smoke.
Kedwyr stirs the coals a bit "I had a choice to make in a split second......I had two foes to deal with and then the man just beyond my battle in dire need of aid."
Quelion puts his head on Sol's shoulder.
Dolen shakes his head at the map and re-folds it, placing it back into it's location in his pack. He finishes the last of his bread and looks around at the individuals at the camp site. "If this is our camp, I could do with some dinner. There is game to the north of here. Would anyone care to help bring some in?"
Siwyn worries "What did you do, Love?"
Maewynne nods to Dolen appreciatively. "Don't go alone, sir. Take caution."
Aradrian nods to Dolen. " Let us be off."
Kedwyr looks to Siwyn "One of mine was near death, thus I really had only one to be concerned with and then the man and his bear. I rushed the Gauredain charging me and closed the distance. Leapt onto his shoulder and planted an arrow straight down into his head and leapt down to fire another arrow at the bear behind."
Dolen stands, bow in hand and quiver at his hip. He looks about at the rest, a silent offer for any others who might wish to join.
Maewynne looks to Dolen and says softly, "I should stay here, aye?"
Dolen nods at Mae's question.
Solinarius noted Dolen's glance in his direction, waving the offer off with a hand.
Maewynne blinks the rain from her lashes and watches her fingers on the strings.
Dolen nods at Aradrian over his shoulder and begins towards the trail leading up, "Lets be off then."
Aradrian smirks. " Deer is it?"
Maewynne gives up on playing in the rain and sighs.
Maqrin quietly walks to the water.
Anormorn smiles his thanks to Maewynne.
Maewynne says, 'A lovely gathering, aye? In the rain, perhaps being hunted.'
Dolen shrugs, "Depends what we find. It's large boar territory up there, but there are deer as well, aye."
Maewynne laughs gently.
Naithion sits silently in the rain, obviously not bothered in the least by it.
Kedwyr glances to the rain and then to Siwyn. "I am going to turn in for the night, meldanya. I shall see you on the morrow."
Siwyn nods, with acceptance.
Maewynne nods to Kedwyr. "Dream well, herunya."
Solinarius gives Quel a gentle pat on the shoulder before standing and making his way toward the campfire.
Quelion frowns as his comfortable spot moves.
Kedwyr nods a goodbye to those present and walks off to make his shelter. He gives Siwyn a big hug and a kiss.
Siwyn waves to Kedwyr.
Anormorn waves to Kedwyr.
Maewynne smiles to the pair.
Quelion sits with Solinarius.
Solinarius says, 'If I may? My lute has been waterproofed, and besides, I think the strings resonate more beautifully when wet.'
Maqrin sits down.
Maewynne says, 'Please sir, if you would.'
Solinarius nods once to Mae, kneeling to retireve the instrument from his pack.
Anormorn glances upward, blinking the rain from his eyes.
Naithion focuses his light blue eyes on Maewynne intently.
Maewynne hides deeper in Naithion's cloak and glances to the Elf.
Solinarius raps his knuckles on the baseboard, setting the timing before beginning to strum.
Naithion gestures with his eyes to Phaerel.
Palorus smiles.
((Palorus, Namlinea, and Maqrin are now quietly talking at the riverside. The others are gathered around the campfire.))
Maewynne smiles gently to Anormorn. "My thanks, as always, sir. You don't know how much good you've done today alone."
Namlinea chuckles.
Palorus laughs.
Maqrin laughs at Namlinea.
Naithion looks to Maewynne again. Then looks to Phaerel and back to her pointedly.
Anormorn shakes his head. "No need for thanks, though I percieve little of the help you say I've provided."
Maewynne bites her lip and shrugs minutely to Naithion as if to say, "What do I do?" She smiles to Anormorn. "You aid... many, sir."
((The mysterious lass from the earlier part of the journey appears as if from nowhere.))
Silif pokes Phaerel. Hey!
Phaerel glances over his shoulder, and opens his mouth in shock.
Quelion listens to Solinarius play and is moved by the tune.
Naithion looks Silif up and down suspiciously.
Quelion says, 'Not at all.'
Anormorn shrugs slightly, "I suppose I do, in an indirect sort of way."
Solinarius gently sets the lute down upon the ground, taking his seat with Quelion once more.
Phaerel says, 'Nay, open as can be.'
Silif points to Phaerel's hideous facial hair.
Maewynne looks to Anormorn. "Aye, you do. And how did our visitor arrive here unnoticed?" She edges closer to Anor.
Phaerel rubs his chin. "I happen to like it. Keeps me warmer than most company ever has."
Anormorn watches Maewynne come closer, curiousity on his face.
Maewynne folds her hands in her lap and watches, tilting her head to the side.
Phaerel dons his cloak and hood against the rain.
Siwyn misses the fire, and the maker of fires.
Quelion leans on Solinarius again.
Siwyn smiles.
Silif sits down.
Phaerel says, 'Join us, if you like. Well, I see that you have. *smirks*'
Namlinea nods in agreement.
Solinarius leans his head sideway, touching temples with Quel.
Silif snorts and coughs.
Siwyn hides a grin.
Phaerel says, 'er... eh?.'
Palorus looks up at the sky. "Well, other than weather related."
Siwyn smiles, trying to look diplomatic.
Phaerel says, 'YOu're short on ale, as usual, then? I have extra...'
Maqrin appears lost in thought once more.
Silif sighs.
Maewynne pulls down the hood of the cloak to hide her expression, blinking in the rain as it soaks the cloak after all this while.
Phaerel smiles grimly. "These are my kinsmen, by the way. Feel free to introduce yourself... and *do* try to be polite..."
Anormorn steals a glance to his left.
Namlinea laughs.
Phaerel winces.
Siwyn warms her hands gratefuly at the fire.
Palorus points to Maqrin. "Yeah, but I have lots of help with that now."
Silif bows deeply.
Solinarius says, '...'
Maewynne looks to Anormorn with a small smile.
Anormorn smirks roguishly.
Maqrin nods.
Solinarius places a hand over his coinpouch, intent on keeping it there.
Naithion narrows his eyes at her.
Maewynne blinks and arches a brow. She starts to say something and instead opts for a small sigh.
Phaerel says, 'Aye, those of us that tolerate being such. Bet you've had luck in Bree as of late.'
Phaerel bites his lip. "I have some to share, if you need."
Naithion says, 'I wouldn't share with self-proclaimed man slayers.'
Silif says, 'Give me!' She pokes Phaerel. Hey! 'You owe me!'
Phaerel takes a roll of rations from his pack and hands it to Silif.
Maewynne looks between Naithion and the woman, clearly startled and confused.
Silif says, 'Have trouble catching on there?' She covers her mouth quickly.
Maewynne offers a shy nod in reply.
Naithion says, 'She's a murderer.'
Phaerel grins. "It seems my *gift* is not catching on quickly enough, Sil."
Silif says, 'Can't be proved, I might add.'
Solinarius gently taps Quel's shoulder, jerking a thumb in Silif's direction.
Naithion says, 'You admitted to it.'
Silif says, 'Keep yer food.'
Maewynne looks to Naithion with no expression though her eyes are dark.
Solinarius says, 'This is why I stay away from women.'
Silif says, 'Elves are so...*coughs*'
Phaerel bows his head. "All this and rain, too." He laughs in frustration.
Naithion says, 'Yes?.'
Quelion wraps his arms around Sol's waist.
Silif says, 'Sorry can't hear you?'
Maewynne bites her lip lightly and looks to Naithion. "Still your blade, herunya, and your tongue."
Solinarius glances over to Silif. 'A thief, aren't you? So very fitting.'
Aradrian nods. He was not one for conversation, but deep down he knew he would have to break the boundaries of his eccentric nature and try to fit in with his race. There were certain things he was beginning to notice on the world that few might conceive.
Silif says, 'I mean no harm to presence company...save maybe one.' She purses her lips 'And he requires plenty of ale...'
Naithion says, 'You will be doing no harm to anyone here.'
Phaerel bites his lip. "Aye. I wonder who that might be? I meant you no harm, Sil."
Maewynne nods hesitantly and looks up to the sounds of footsteps on the path.
Quelion says, 'Not all women are so.'
Silif says, 'Trolls did not either I'm sure...'
Phaerel says, "Nay, she won't attack me. She owes me too much for that."
((Maewynne hears footsteps on the trail down to the valley and rather than be surprised once more with strangers coming to the camp, she goes to investigate. Dolen and Aradrian appear, bearing their game.))
Anormorn glances up and follows Maewynne.
Siwyn bows deeply before Quelion.
Maewynne smiles a bit to Dolen. "It seems we had a visitor even with a watch."
Solinarius looks over to the older Elf, a sudden sorrw in his eyes.
Quelion bows deeply before Siwyn.
Aradrian lunches over, both deer resting on his shoulder when he notices Maewynne. He says no words and simply listens.
Dolen nods at Mae over an arm full of dried kindling. He looks past them, curious, "Is that so?"
Naithion says, 'I told you she went unmentioned. Not unnoticed.'
Maewynne nods silently, her eyes wide.
Naithion says, 'She is trouble. Mark my words.'
Aradrian says, 'I'm putting these down.'
Dolen steps past the man and elf, arms burning from holding the bundle of firewood.
Quelion says, 'Mn. I'd agree, but the type of trouble is the question.'
Maewynne arches a brow to Naithion and warily checks her blade.
Silif giggles uncontrollably.
Aradrian sets the deer down and squints his eyes at the woman standing in the distance.
Dolen drops the bundle of wood and stokes the dying fire.
Naithion says, 'Well... I believe us three are safe. We are not Men.' He chuckles.
Phaerel says, 'Mayhap, but I owe them a bit.'
Siwyn listens to Gwaegold with a worried expression.
Quelion agrees.
Maewynne says, 'Master Dolen, we've only come this far and already I fear for myself.'
Silif bows deeply.
Solinarius says, 'We may be safe, but our coin most certainly is not.'
Naithion says, 'My coin is hidden.'
Phaerel bows deeply before Silif.
Naithion says, 'Not on my person at the moment.'
Dolen looks over at Maewynne, "You fear for yourself?" he asks, as if the notion was unheard of.
Quelion smirks gleefully.
Palorus shakes his head. "I've already been accused of that today. I'm not wise so much as I paid great attention to my father. He is wise."
Quelion says, 'Oh?'
Maewynne nods a bit.
Phaerel says, 'You as well. If you can be safe..'
Quelion says, 'I wonder where he buried it out here?'
Solinarius says, 'Off to rob another man of his livelyhood? Meh, good riddance.'
Aradrian looks to Phaerel. " What was that about?" he asks, nodding to the rider that ran up the side of the cliff.
Dolen turns to Ara, "If you would gut and clean those deer?"
Siwyn whispers to her leader with a frown.
Phaerel sighs.
Quelion admires the eagle.
Aradrian looks to Dolen, and though he is curious, says nothing and moves to gather the deer and prepare them.
Maewynne rubs her nose with her forefinger as she sighs slowly. "Siwyn's companion has sighted Orc, many of them. On the far side of the river."
Siwyn nods.
Maewynne says, 'We're safe here for our rest but not for long. We need to keep a better watch if any of us are to live for long.'
Phaerel says, "I found her in an orphanage in Dale. She needed help, and I needed to take an apprentice. She showed skill. The rest is lees pleasant."
Siwyn points something out.
Dolen says, 'Aye, there are many camps throughout this region, and down river as well. You think they'd slip by?'
Siwyn says, 'Go Gwae and be careful. Come back if they threaten.'
Quelion says, 'Along the river?'
Siwyn watches the eagle fly across the water.
Maewynne looks carefully afer the bird. She gratefully goes to the fire.
Solinarius says, 'They would have noticed the smoke from our campfire by now.'
Anormorn says, 'Not with all the smoke from Trestlebridge, I think.'
Siwyn says, 'Aye if they are hunting they will know of us.'
Maewynne says, 'Nan Wathren and a whole nest of Orc is closer than you may think, Solinarius.'
Siwyn says, 'True.'
Anormorn says, 'Let us then take our watches. I volunteer.'
Maewynne nods to Anormorn thankfully. "I appreciate it greatly, sir."
Solinarius says, 'We Elves do not need as much sleep as Men. We would be more than happy to take the Latewatch.'
Palorus eyes widen a moment as he remembers Maq's recount of his battles in Trestlebridge.
Maewynne smiles a little to Solanarius. "That would be kind."
Solinarius nods once to Maewynne. 'Think nothing of it.'
Siwyn bows deeply before Solinarius.
Dolen stokes the fire once again and moves to check on the deer preparation.
Maewynne glances over to Phaerel and then to her boots, the rain running from the hood of her cloak and down her nose in long drips.
Naithion nudges Phaerel in the back, pushing him toward Maewynne.
Siwyn pulls her long cloak out of her pack and pulls the hood up.
Aradrian rolls the deer carcass over on its back with the rump lower than it's shoulders and spreads the hind legs. Making a cut along the centerline of it's belly from breastbone to base of tail.
Phaerel says, 'Hands off, if you please.'
Dolen draws his belt knife and kneels beside the other man, examining the carcasses.
Anormorn says, 'I shall take my watch on the cliffs above.'
Naithion sighs, "You two are hopeless."
Siwyn chuckles.
Maewynne glances up at this and nods to Anormorn.
Phaerel says, 'Alright, my lady. It appears that you have something to say?.'
Anormorn kneels before Maewynne.
Solinarius nudges Quelion gently.
Maewynne says, 'I know you know your business better than I do, sir. So travel well and safely.'
Solinarius says, 'Care to come with me to gather some plants?'
Quelion glances at Solinarius.
Phaerel bows deeply before Anormorn.
Quelion says, 'Of course.'
Naithion says, 'Siwyn. Perhaps you and I should see what those two are up to down by the river?'
Solinarius gives the deer carcass a wide berth.
Maewynne watches with a raised brow as most of the campsite wanders away.
Quelion bows deeply before Anormorn.
Anormorn bows deeply before Quelion.
Naithion leaves Maewynne and Phaerel alone to talk.
Aradrian looks over to Dolen removing his gauntlets and preparing himself for the mess he was about to cause. " The cut should pass through the sternum and extend up the neck to the chin to allow removal of as much of the windpipe as possible."
Solinarius talks quietly with Quelion as he walks.
Maewynne nods towards the shoreline of the river.
Aradrian says, just in case Dolen does not know. " No need for tainted meat."
Dolen nods and sets about the task with the other animal, his honed knife doing a fine job of parting the thick hide. "Aye, I've done it a time or two myself."
((Maewynne and Phaerel head down to the shoreline of the river to talk. That part of the log I'm leaving out as it's of no interest to others.))
Maewynne busies herself with washing her face, though the rain is doing a good job of it without her help.
Dolen tosses a few more logs on the fire and stokes it to bring the flames back to life.
Aradrian looks to Dolen. " These deer should be leveled a bit above the fire, but I am sure setting them near the flame will do well enough." he says as he brushes some pebbles aside with his calloused foot. Setting the meat down beside the fire, he nods.
Dolen takes a seat by the fire and sets about making large cuts of meat, skewering them upon appropriately large branches and propping those near to the fire, placing them far enough from the flames to be seared and blackened, but not burnt.
Aradrian begins washing the blood and other excrements from his fingers. He nods but says nothing. " I suppose there are different pleasures in eating deer. I eat it burnt, for I need no seasonings..." he says shrugging. " I am sure the way he prepares it will be fine." He looks to Palrous and smiles. " I see you have come a ways since we last spoke. Good to know."
Dolen nods, "Likewise."
Palorus finds a nice sheltered spot near the rock and settles in for the night.
((The companions make camp. Some go to scout for more information while others rest and keep watch.))
((The group gathers at the West Gate of Bree-Town to set out.))
Quelion says, 'I should have made pie, then we'd easily find him.'
Naithion takes his shield from his back and slides his arm into the straps.
Phaerel takes an aleskin from his pack and drinks.
Anormorn adjusts his fingers in his gloves.
Maewynne smiles shyly to Phaerel.
Dolen frowns, "Lets get one thing straight, this man is no simple brigand and he knows we'll be following."
Anormorn says, 'I feel nearly underarmoured.'
Maewynne says, 'Aye, sir. Thank you for pointing this out to those who may not know him.' She smiles to Anormorn a little.
Naithion smirks, "After the thumb breaking I did earlier I have no doubt he knows I'm coming."
Phaerel looks at Mae briefly, and looks away.
Quelion hails Palorus.
Dolen says, 'Aye. It's a long path and one he did not walk, but he's smart enough to set watchmen on the roads, I'm sure he's got enough coin to hire swords."'
Maewynne winces at this, glancing to Phaerel again before nodding towards the gate. "Are we ready?"
Phaerel bows deeply before Palorus.
Anormorn waves to Palorus.
Namlinea bows deeply before Palorus.
Quelion says, 'It didn't even take pie this time.'
Dolen nods to Palorus.
Naithion says, 'I'm always ready.'
Phaerel says, 'Aye, I am.'
Palorus says, 'Let's not wait any longer then.'
Maewynne looks to Dolen. "Lead on, sir. Or shall I?"
Dolen says, 'Before we go, we've precious few scouts and outriders as it is. Keep your eyes on the treeline, all of you. Watch for crossbows or some such.'
((The group makes it's way down the road towards Trestlebridge.))
Phaerel dons his hood and starts off, looking down.
Maewynne glances over her shoulder.
Palorus says, 'Hold.'
Naithion shouts, 'Stay together!'
Namlinea looks confused.
Maewynne looks to Anormorn. "Wait, sir. Everyone should catch up.'
Anormorn inhales deeply of the night air.
Naithion says, 'It is important that we stick together and move as one. Seperate we are weak. United we are strong.'
Maewynne eyes the buildings warily and nods. "Aye, I agree."
Dolen says, 'Easier targets grouped as well.'
Naithion says, 'As Dorben says, "WWTAO. We Work Together As One."'
Palorus says, 'Easier to get into a defensive position.'
Dolen says, 'WWTAO? Is that supposed to be catchy?'
Naithion nods.
Maewynne bites her lip and says nothing.
Naithion says, 'Makes it easier to remember I guess.' He shrugs, "Dwarves."
Maewynne maintains her place carefully between Palorus and Anormorn, scanning the road ahead.
Palorus sweeps each side of the road with a momentary glance, watching for any trouble.
Naithion checks that his sword is clear in its scabbard as he walks. He says, 'Spoil my fun...'
Maewynne smiles to herself.
Palorus hails Foreman Rosethorn.
Maewynne looks up to the sky, judging the weather carefully.
Anormorn says, 'Going to be cool tonight.'
Maewynne nods, pausing so the others can gather once more.
Naithion peers into the distance.
Maewynne says, 'This is to the the easiest part of our journeys.'
Naithion nods.
Maewynne says, 'And this is also the best place to turn back, aye?'
Palorus says, 'Doesn't mean we should let our guard down.'
Naithion says, 'You say that like we have a choice.'
Palorus says, 'You do have a choice.'
Anormorn says, 'Why would we turn back?'
Maewynne says, 'You have every bit a choice, herunya. Because that's the sensible thing to do.'
Naithion says, 'Not if I'm to keep to my word.'
Palorus turns part way, watching the hill.
Maewynne laughs softly. "Very well, then."
Phaerel drinks from the aleskin and wipes his chin, lost in thought.
Beril says, 'Oye travelers... If you headed north, watch the orcs eh?'
Naithion says, 'Thank you for your concern.'
Maewynne nods. "Thank you, sir."
Palorus waves. "Thanks for the warning, friend."
Quelion waves to Beril.
Naithion rolls his eyes.
((There's a fire on the road ahead. Kedwyr, wearing his hooded cloak, waits for the travelers there.))
Maqrin nods to the traveler.
Maewynne eyes the campfire, then smiles.
Palorus hails Kedwyr.
Kedwyr nods to Maewynne.
Maewynne says, 'Aiya, herunya.'
Palorus says, 'Greetings, Kedwyr.'
Anormorn says, 'Well! Suilad, Mellon.'
Kedwyr says, 'I thought you might come this way'
Namlinea waves to Kedwyr.
Maewynne says, 'Lovely evening for a hunt, aye?'
Phaerel bows deeply before Kedwyr.
Kedwyr points behind him to the wagon and sacks of seed. 'One wagon almost made it to Bree.'
Maewynne nods. "Aye, but this many of us on the road..." She looks to the waggon with wide eyes.
Anormorn inspects the wagon closely.
Kedwyr says, 'The delivery agents have been dispatched'
Maewynne says, 'Then we must work as quickly as we can and learn what we may.'
Dolen says, 'No time to be rushing, lass.'
Anormorn kneels and inspects the mud on the wheels.
Maewynne says, 'How then should we go, Dolen?'
Kedwyr says, 'Carefully would be best.'
Maewynne says, 'And we cannot destroy these by burning them. What's the other way?'
Dolen hooks his free thumb in his sword belt and looks around the darkened fields. "Aye, carefully."
((A mysterious traveler appears on the road. She's unseen for now, very sneaky and sly in a hooded cloak.))
Silif trips Phaerel and snickers.
Kedwyr says, 'Aye, to close to town to burn them.'
Palorus says, 'Bury it.'
Anormorn rubs the dried mud between his gloved fingers.
Maewynne says, 'And too close to us.'
Kedwyr says, 'Bury them would be best.'
Maewynne arches an eyebrow at Anormorn. "What have you found?"
Silif pokes Phaerel.
Phaerel looks around.
Anormorn says, 'Peculiar clay on the wheels.'
Kedwyr looks to Anormorn. He nods.
Phaerel says, '...Silif?.'
Kedwyr says, 'You saw that too, eh?'
Anormorn nods to Kedwyr.
((The mysterious traveler appears.))
Silif says, '....you left me to them Trolls...' She slaps Phaerel on the cheek.
Anormorn says, 'What do you make of it, friend?'
Naithion clears his sword from his scabbard in the blink of an eye.
Kedwyr says, 'Interesting part though.....none of the wagon pushers had it on their boots.'
Maewynne glances over, surprised. She edges closer to Anormorn to listen to what he has to share.
Phaerel rubs his cheek. "I would never do that. To you or anyone."
Kedwyr says, 'The wagon was met by the delivery agents, my guess. They came from different locations.'
Anormorn holds out his hand to show the dried clay clumps he rubbed off the wheel.
Maewynne says, 'Where, friends? Do you have any idea?'
Silif says, 'All excuses as you would, I stole ale for you!'
Phaerel says, 'Aye, that you did. Without me asking, however.'
Silif says, 'You cannot imagine what I had to do to get out of that mess...'
Naithion eyes Silif, ready to strike, "I suggest keeping your hands to yourself, girl. I'll not have you striking one under my protection."
Kedwyr says, 'The agents were thugs from the east, but the wagon came from the north. I know not where.'
Phaerel says, 'Nay, stay your hand. She is a friend of mine.'
Silif rolls her eyes.
Dolen crouches where he is and watches the surrounding lands, particularly the road.
Phaerel says, 'Mayhap I did deserve a strike, anyway.'
Silif says, 'Friendly bunch they are...'
Maewynne nods slowly, then spares her attention for the confrontation. She appears uneasy, glancing to Dolen.
Anormorn says, 'East. And North.'
Kedwyr nods.
Phaerel says, 'They're loyal, and protective. It's a good thing to have at hand.'
Silif says, 'Oi you! Better pick your company better eh?'
Phaerel says, 'I was protective of you as well, though I doubt you needed it as much as I thought.'
Maewynne carefully approaches Dolen.
Naithion says, 'You speak as though you know me. Since you do not I suggest you keep your opinions to yourself.'
Maewynne says, 'What do you see, sir?'
Anormorn rubs the clay from his gloves on the corner of the cart.
Silif says, 'You act as if you know me...elf'
Dolen shakes his head, "Nothing. Just dont like having my back unwatched is all."
Silif says, 'Stand aside, if you will...'
Phaerel says, 'Enough. We can be civil, aye?.'
Naithion says, 'Hardly. I act as though you just struck someone under my protection.'
Quelion pats the lad on the shoulder.
Maewynne narrows her eyes at the tone, unsure if she should step into the situation. She nervously turns her eyes back to the road.
Silif says, 'He is lucky he got just that much from me!'
Naithion stares her down, "Had you done more you'd be missing limbs."
Palorus says, 'You need to run back home, girl.'
Anormorn peers into the darkness up the road.
Naithion says, 'We don't have time for this Phaerel.'
Maewynne smiles to Palorus.
Phaerel scowls. "I need no protection from you, Naithion. I swore respect-- but that's the extent. Mind your business.
Silif says, 'Oi, I see how it is'
Palorus says, 'This isn't the time for foolishness.'
Naithion says, 'It doesn't matter if you want my protection or not. I am under oath.'
Maewynne takes a breath and glances to Anormorn, leading up the road. 'It's not safe to stand so still with so many, sir.'
Anormorn nods quietly.
Phaerel says, 'Good for you. DO you mind if I have a conversation without your able hand for a moment?.'
Silif pokes Phaerel in the chest.
Maqrin leaves the quarrel to the others.
Maewynne scans the road with wide eyes, looking back to the others often.
Kedwyr nods to Naithion.
Naithion replaces his sword in it's scabbard.
Maewynne says, 'Hentalye, herunya. For coming.'
Kedwyr says, 'Iqista, herinya'
Maewynne blinks, the darkness concealing the road ahead. 'Will someone look up ahead for us?'
Palorus says, 'Finished with your spat, Phaerel?'
Maewynne says, 'I wish to know what's around that curve.'
Kedwyr nods to Maewynne.
Maewynne watches carefully.
Palorus says, 'Sure found a hothead there, friend.'
Naithion's Elvish eyes watch Kedwyr as he runs ahead until even he can't see him in the darkness.
Dolen watches the trees for his part.
Palorus grins at Phaerel.
Anormorn rubs a thumb across the pommel of one dagger.
Maewynne glances to Phaerel and turns her eyes back to the road, awaiting Kedwyr. 'I don't like being in the open at all.'
Naithion checks his javelin while he waits to make sure it's clear in its holder.
Kedwyr bows deeply before Maewynne.
Maewynne says, 'Anything?'
Kedwyr says, 'The tracks did not veer east or west. They come from the north as I had guessed.'
Maewynne says, 'North alone...'
Palorus says, 'Good.'
Maewynne says, 'Aye, we'll camp on the far side of Trestlebridge tonigt.'
Kedwyr shakes his head. 'Not good.'
Maewynne says, 'Watch carefully... The cover of trees may be more dangerous than the open road. How so, herunya?'
Kedwyr says, 'The lands to the north are watched by the last of the Dunedain. It would be an elusive foe indeed to slip past their nets.' He frowns.
Anormorn agrees with Kedwyr.
Palorus says, 'Perhaps. They do have their hands full as well though.'
Maewynne looks to the road carefully. "What do you suggest then?"
Phaerel takes the aleskin out again, considering it for a moment before drinking.
Maewynne looks back to Phaerel and frowns.
Naithion says, 'The Dunedain are few. They cannot watch everywhere.'
Anormorn smiles to himself at Naithion's statement.
Maewynne shakes her head slowly. "And there are many of us, so many we'll be easily noticed as we pass."
Kedwyr looks to Maewynne. "This is an elusive foe, herinya. We must be wary. He is no fool I think."
Maewynne runs her hand through her short hair. "Aye. I was wary of as much." She adjusts her pack.
Kedwyr looks northward. "We will be traversing the Downs soon, and Trestlebridge.'
Anormorn scans the nearby hills and ruins.
Maqrin dusts himself off.
Maewynne looks ahead and sets her jaw. "Shall we make camp?"
Naithion looks around, "If you think that it's a good idea."
Maewynne smiles. "Much better than standing on the road, aye." She narrows her eyes as she scans the road.
Quelion isn't surprised to see Kedwyr crawling up to high places.
Anormorn sniffs the air with a look of disgust.
Maewynne speaks softly to Anormorn..."These roads make me uneasy."
Anormorn whispers, "I smell orcs."
Naithion looks about, "This is Orc territory."
Maewynne nods hesitantly.
Kedwyr calls for a hold.
Maqrin pauses.
Kedwyr looks to anormorn
Maqrin says, 'Orc..'
Maewynne looks to the camp on the left, shivering.
Kedwyr nods and gestures for him to follow
Anormorn lifts his chin toward the west side of the road.
Naithion says, 'No need to stir up trouble...'
Anormorn says, 'I do. An encampment.'
Kedwyr points to the camp "They are very close to Bree. They are confident."
Palorus hails Siwyn.
Siwyn hails everyone.
Kedwyr frowns.
Maewynne nods to Kedwyr. "Aye, bold."
Namlinea waves to Siwyn.
Anormorn waves to Siwyn.
Dolen nocks an arrow as he watches the orcish scout, "More up the road as well, nearly directly on our trail"
Maewynne smiles a little to Siwyn.
Siwyn looks happily at her friends.
Kedwyr looks to Maewynne. "If we try to slip by they could alert others. We may need to be rid of them."
Anormorn says, 'How did they build such a fortress so near Trestlebridge?'
Maewynne nods and unsheathes her blade. "Shall we hunt then?"
Dolen says, 'Oh bloody...'
Palorus says, 'Clear.'
Maewynne glances around and nods. She unslings her shield.
Kedwyr glances around and frowns. "This is not good."
((As the group approaches an orc camp near the road Siwyn joins them.))
Siwyn looks up at Kedwyr.
((The group begins hunting the orcs and wargs in the encampment.))
Maewynne tilts her chin. "There."
Maqrin is pleased with his throw.
Palorus says, 'Clear.'
Naithion kneels beside the dead Orc, inspecting its body.
Maewynne frowns lightly and wipes her blade on her leggings.
Naithion stands up, dusting himself off.
Maewynne says, 'What have you found?'
Naithion says, 'Tarkrips...'
Siwyn shakes her head grimly.
Naithion says, 'Stupid... yet still dangerous to the inexperienced...'
Siwyn nods.
Maewynne nods. "Where's Kedwyr?"
Anormorn says, 'You know of these orcs then?'
Phaerel bows to Siwyn. "Hello, my lady. I didn't notice that you'd joined us!"
Dolen nods approvingly at the javelin toss.
Maewynne shivers lightly. "Do you think we're safe to move on?"
Kedwyr nods.
((Another traveler was fighting orcs in the camp and the group helped him reach safety. He sits on an embankment.))
Beril sits down. 'Move along... I'll watch your backs from these orcs once I've recovered from this wound... Thanks for the help.'
Maewynne says, 'Our thanks. Travel well.'
Maqrin nods.
Palorus salutes Beril.
Beril nods wiping blood from his eyes.
Maewynne nods towards the orc on the rise.
Siwyn points at Tarkrîp Grunt.
Anormorn says, 'Kedwyr, had you noticed the barrels at the camps?'
Kedwyr frowns "The orcs run rampant where they please."
Maewynne says, 'Barrels?'
Kedwyr nods.
Anormorn says, 'In the defenses.'
Maewynne says, 'What were they for, sir?'
Anormorn says, 'Like that one, over there.' He points something out.
Siwyn wonders.
Kedwyr arches a brow. "What was in the barrels?"
Dolen holds his hand out, palm up, then frowns up at the rain.
Maewynne nods. "Aye, what does it mean?"
Naithion pulls the hood on his cloak up.
Anormorn says, 'Could they be the type that the hobbits use for transporting their pipeweed?'
Dolen pulls his hood up as well.
Siwyn ponders this.
Maewynne bites her lip. "Aye, they could."
Phaerel dons his hood as well, frowning at the rain in disgust.
Kedwyr looks to Anormorn. "Then they must have sent some to the Shire as well. This news is bad."
Maewynne sighs delicately. "Ah. Lovely weather. Will help us with visibility too."
Siwyn gets out her cloak and hides under it, glowering at the rain.
Kedwyr looks northward. "Trestlebridge is up ahead, we can stop there for supplies."
Maewynne blinks the rain from her eyelashes, frowning deeply.
Anormorn eyes the cliffs to both sides warily.
Maewynne pauses, looking back to Anormorn pointedly. 'Is it safe to pass?'
Naithion pulls his cloak off and puts it around Maewynne, pulling the hood up over her head.
Anormorn says, 'I believe it to be. No smell of orcs from the North. Only charred wood.'
Maewynne smiles to Naithion quickly and pulls the hood tightly around her face. She nods. "We'll try to find shelter there then."
Dolen nocks another arrow and keeps his eyes on the trees behind them.
Phaerel says, 'The burning smell is likely Trestlebridge, then. It's in ruin lately, and the townfolk aren't able to do much about it, it seems.'
Naithion doesn't seem bothered by the rain in the least.
((The travelers finally arrive at the gates of Trestlebridge.))
Maewynne nods shortly. She speaks softly to the guards and nods.
Phaerel toasts the guard with his aleskin and drinks.
Maewynne holds up a hand to still her companions. "This is the last place for provisions and any comfort before we reach Tinnudir. Do what you must here and do it well."
Palorus says, 'So far so good. I expect it won't be from this point on.'
Maewynne shakes her head. "Not in the least, sir."
Phaerel says, 'Aye, the dead wake in the fields beyond.'
Dolen removes his arrow from his bow and slips it back into the quiver at his hip. He looks to Maqrin, "Fine toss back there. Never seen a man take bear that size with a single spear before. Not without it running itself down, at least.'
Naithion says, 'Javelin.'
Anormorn says, 'Dead, eh?'
Phaerel says, 'Well... undead, if you will.'
Anormorn says, 'Like the Barrows?'
Phaerel says, 'Indeed.'
Siwyn smiles quietly at Kedwyr.
Anormorn nods, tight-lipped.
Phaerel says, 'Unpleasant bunch. No manners.'
Palorus says, 'Worse than Barrows.'
Kedwyr smiles to Siwyn.
Siwyn looks up at Kedwyr, trembling.
Dolen looks over his shoulder at Naithion, a questioning expression on his face, but he turns back to the two in uniform without further word.
Siwyn grins very widely.
Naithion says, 'Javelin are for throwing. Spears are for striking.'
Siwyn bows deeply before Kedwyr.
Kedwyr smiles to Siwyn and gestures her to follow.
((A stranger, the one that the group aided at the orc camp, approaches them as they tend to their business in Trestlebridge.))
Beril says, 'Sorry to bother you lot once again... But would you know the best route to Esteldin, I believe it is?'
Dolen says, 'So when one strikes with a javelin in hand, does it then change it's name?'
Palorus says, 'Follow the road out of town.'
Siwyn glows.
Dolen says, 'And at what point in the thrust does that happen?'
Naithion shakes his head, "They are weighted differently."
Phaerel says, 'Aye. Leave by the bridge, and travel the road to the northeast.'
Anormorn says, 'I understand it is far to the east north-east of here.'
Beril says, 'Understood, don't much like being in these parts... But I've got my information to deliever, thank you.'
Dolen says, 'Aye well, a spear to me is a pointed stick, weighted however it may be.'
Palorus says, 'I can show you, friend.'
Naithion smiles.
Beril says, 'If you've got the time, it would be appreciated.'
Maewynne nods to the Man and looks to her companions. "We shall camp near the bridge, friends."
Palorus says, 'I'll return when I can.'
Maewynne nods to Palorus. "Be careful."
Palorus says, 'Always. This way.'
Beril says, 'Lead on.'
((Palorus and Beril head out to Esteldin and the group gets ready to move towards the camp.))
Anormorn blinks the smoke-haze from his eyes.
Maewynne unslings her shield. "Are we ready to rest, friends?"
Kedwyr nods.
Naithion says, 'If you all are tired.'
Maewynne says, 'We should do so while we can, Naithion.'
((The group makes it's way through Trestlebridge and down a very narrow and winding path to a valley beside the river beneath the Trestlespan. There's a wide, open shore and on the far side of the river a sheer cliff face climbs to the downs. The shore is barren, only a bit of grass and rock, and the only sign that anyone has traveled the path is an abandoned stone hut.))
Tynuthiel looks quietly as the people pass.
Dolen pulls his hood back now that the rain seems to have stopped for the evening.
Naithion smiles at Maewynne, "I simply meant that I'm not tired. But that if any of you are we should rest."
Anormorn keeps himself busy by checking dark corners and alleyways.
Maewynne eyes the valley warily. "We would be able to see anything from down there. Provided it's safe now."
Siwyn smiles at Kedwyr scouting.
Naithion peers into the distance.
Maewynne says, 'Aye, herunya?'
Kedwyr nods. "It is safe."
Dolen mutters, "Bloody rain.."
Naithion says, 'The rain is the least of our worries.'
Dolen hefts his bow, "Rather high for one who requires a taut bowstring."
Maewynne gestures at the small clearing. "Can someone lay a fire?"
Naithion says, 'I'd be more worried about someone slitting our throats in our sleep.'
Kedwyr says, 'Orcs were here a while ago.'
Naithion smiles, "Luckily Elves don't need sleep."
Phaerel rolls his eyes.
Maewynne shivers and curls deeper into Naithion's cloak. "Aye, but have they been gone for long enough for us to be safe?"
Naithion says, 'Then you are a fool.'
Siwyn sniffs the air.
Naithion says, 'There is always death to fear.'
Kedwyr scouts the river. "The cliffs are too sheer on the other side. They came by boat. We will need to set up watch".
Siwyn says, 'Shall I send a bird to go look around by air?'
Dolen nods to Siwyn.
Maewynne nods thankfully to Siwyn.
Anormorn agrees with Kedwyr.
((Siwyn summons a companion bird from the sky.))
Siwyn whispers in low croaks to her raven. She points something out.
Kedwyr sits down.
Siwyn says, 'Go Maegaw. Go look about and check for any enemies. Fly far.' She points at Maegaew.
Maewynne settles with her back to the cliff face and watches the area carefully.
Siwyn watches her bird fly high and far.
Anormorn peers upward at the waterfall through the falling rain.
Siwyn sits down.
Naithion stands near Maewynne, settling into the shadows cast by the tree.
Kedwyr smiles at the bird soaring out of sight, thankful for Siwyn's companions.
Phaerel sits down.
Naithion slings his shield on his back.
Namlinea sits with Maqrin.
Anormorn crouches by the fire.
Anormorn sits down.
Dolen sits down.
Maewynne watches over the business of making camp with an expression that's a cross between affectionate and worried. She pulls Naithion's cloak closer around her.
Siwyn chirps and gurgles to her eagle. She points something out.
Naithion says, 'How are you holding up?'
Siwyn sits down.
Kedwyr smiles at Gwaegold.
Maewynne glances up. "Me?"
Naithion says, 'Yes.'
Anormorn stands back up and paces restlessly.
Maewynne laughs softly. "I'm well and expect I shall remain so. It's everyone else I worry after."
Naithion says, 'There's no need. I will die before I see harm come to any of them.'
Dolen lays his bow out next to him and shrugs his pack off. He digs into the topmost pocket and removes a bit of bread, breaking off small chunks to chew on at a time.
Anormorn studies the rough little hut.
Maewynne says, 'Do you think this means I care less for you because you're under oath to me?'
Naithion looks confused, "You care about me?"
Maewynne smiles. 'Of course I do, sir. As I care for all I meet in my travels.'
Naithion says, 'You are a strange woman indeed...'
Maewynne looks perplexed. She glances to Phaerel and then turns to Anormorn. "What have you found?"
Anormorn turns about at the sound of his name, "Hm?"
Phaerel pulls the aleskin, and begins to sing the lay of Gil-Galad under his breath after a drink.
Maewynne nods towards the little building. "Any interest, sir?"
Anormorn says, 'Just that I had not seen it here, the one time I visited before.'
Naithion looks between Maewynne and Phaerel.
Maewynne nods to this. She stands, taking up her little battered war harp and strums the strings lightly. 'Gather, friends, and we'll rest and have some happiness.'
Anormorn smiles a bit at the sound of the harp.
Maewynne says, 'Aye?'
Naithion leans to Maewynne and says softly, "Go to him."
Maqrin stands and stretches.
Maewynne glances to Naithion with a flash of a frown and begins to play.
Maewynne smiles and looks to Kedwyr. "One of your favorites, meldonya."
Kedwyr nods to Maewynne.
Maqrin sits with Namlinea.
Naithion kneels down and pulls one of his gloves off, dipping his hand into the water.
Phaerel sees Mae pull the harp from the corner of his eye, and closes his eyes, awaiting the music.
Siwyn smiles and reaches shyly for Kedwyr's hand.
Maewynne smiles nearly blissfully as she plays. "No matter what your path is shadowed by, remember that light is what casts the darkness you face."
Maqrin looks lost in thought.
Anormorn sits down before the fire and retrieves a honing stone from his pouch.
Kedwyr smiles as he surrenders his hand to the Lady Siwyn.
Siwyn nods to the music, swaying slightly.
Naithion sniffs at the water in his hand.
Maewynne glances to Naithion, her fingers playing with no guidance.
Anormorn inspects the point of one of his daggers, dressing the nicks with the stone with slow, scraping strokes.
Naithion lets the water run from his hand and looks up and down the river.
Maewynne taps her foot in time, worry melting from her shoulders as she plays.
Naithion pulls his glove back on and turns back to the camp.
Maewynne smiles slyly as she coaxes the next song from her strings.
Dolen removes a map from a side pouch on his travelling pack, unfolding it in his lap to examine while he eats.
Kedwyr smiles at the tune.
Maewynne can't resist laughing to herself as she plays, glancing to the gathering in turn.
Siwyn smiles up at her knight, eyes shining.
Anormorn holds the dagger blade out before him in the firelight, admiring the light dancing across the blade. Satisfied with it, he returns it to its scabbard and draws the other, giving it the same attention with the honing stone.
Maewynne speaks very softly, "We'll have a camp here, friends, until we can scout the safest road ahead."
Siwyn nods.
Maewynne glances back at the Elves.
((Quelion and his companion Solinarius appear at the campsite.))
Solinarius waves meekly to Maewynne.
Maewynne continues quietly as she plays, "Mark it well. When we set out again this will be where we gather, aye?"
Kedwyr nods. She nods to Solanarius.
Anormorn finishes sharpening his second dagger, returning it to its scabbard and the stone to his pouch.
Dolen chews on the plain bread, occasionally looking up to peer at the to quiet red-clad individuals.
Solinarius sits down.
Quelion sits with Solinarius.
Maewynne looks to Anormorn, marking his work. She strums her harp awake once more.
Anormorn gives a wondering glance toward Maewynne.
Solinarius enjoys the peaceful atmosphere, not seeing need to speak. Taking in the tranquil scene, he begins to glance around the camp, taking the faces in.
Siwyn smiles dreamily.
Maewynne laughs under her breath as she plays, grinning for a quick moment to Anormorn.
Kedwyr glances to Siwyn and smiles at her lovely face lit by the campfire.
Siwyn blushes, utterly happy to be by Kedwyr's side.
Anormorn smiles despite his serious nature.
Maewynne glances to Kedwyr and his meldanya and quickly again into the fire.
Kedwyr looks to Siwyn. "We had quite the hunt the other day, aye?"
Solinarius leans his head toward Quelion, whispering something in the older Elf's ear.
Siwyn smiles merrily. "Oh yes Meldanya, that we did." She smiles.
Maewynne thinks for a moment. "One last song..."
Kedwyr smiles in rememberance. "Forochel....a fine place to hunt."
Naithion lays his sword across his lap and begins the polish the blade with the care and attention to detail of someone that has a vast amount of experience.
Maewynne smiles once more to Anormorn at her choice of song and falls into her playing dreamily.
Siwyn looks up at her birds circling, on watch, and nods at them in satisfaction.
Anormorn gets a far-off look in his eye as he listens quietly.
Phaerel stares into the fire, expressionless.
Solinarius glances toward Quelion, a mischevious smile gracing the younger Elf's features. Without a sound, he wrapped one arm around the older Elf's shoulders.
Siwyn looks up at her lord, grateful for the fire.
Quelion settles against Solinarius comfortably.
Kedwyr glances into the fire and smiles. "And there I was......facing two Gauredain, one near death and the other rushing me when I saw what was happeneing just beyond my area......"
Siwyn looks worried.
Maewynne looks to Phaerel from beneath her lashes and sighs nearly silently.
Naithion looks around the campfire and hopes that Dolen and Anormorn don't start to get friendly.
((Palorus reappears from his trip to Esteldin.))
Siwyn waves to Palorus.
Kedwyr glances around and smiles. "A man in full armor being torn to shreds by a bear that must have caught him by surprise."
Namlinea hails Palorus.
Siwyn wonders, worrying.
Siwyn looks up at Kedwyr. "Was he all right?"
Solinarius lets the fingers of his free hand gently sift through Quelion's hair.
((Aradrian joins the companions near the fire, appearing quietly.))
Aradrian begins to smoke.
Kedwyr stirs the coals a bit "I had a choice to make in a split second......I had two foes to deal with and then the man just beyond my battle in dire need of aid."
Quelion puts his head on Sol's shoulder.
Dolen shakes his head at the map and re-folds it, placing it back into it's location in his pack. He finishes the last of his bread and looks around at the individuals at the camp site. "If this is our camp, I could do with some dinner. There is game to the north of here. Would anyone care to help bring some in?"
Siwyn worries "What did you do, Love?"
Maewynne nods to Dolen appreciatively. "Don't go alone, sir. Take caution."
Aradrian nods to Dolen. " Let us be off."
Kedwyr looks to Siwyn "One of mine was near death, thus I really had only one to be concerned with and then the man and his bear. I rushed the Gauredain charging me and closed the distance. Leapt onto his shoulder and planted an arrow straight down into his head and leapt down to fire another arrow at the bear behind."
Dolen stands, bow in hand and quiver at his hip. He looks about at the rest, a silent offer for any others who might wish to join.
Maewynne looks to Dolen and says softly, "I should stay here, aye?"
Dolen nods at Mae's question.
Solinarius noted Dolen's glance in his direction, waving the offer off with a hand.
Maewynne blinks the rain from her lashes and watches her fingers on the strings.
Dolen nods at Aradrian over his shoulder and begins towards the trail leading up, "Lets be off then."
Aradrian smirks. " Deer is it?"
Maewynne gives up on playing in the rain and sighs.
Maqrin quietly walks to the water.
Anormorn smiles his thanks to Maewynne.
Maewynne says, 'A lovely gathering, aye? In the rain, perhaps being hunted.'
Dolen shrugs, "Depends what we find. It's large boar territory up there, but there are deer as well, aye."
Maewynne laughs gently.
Naithion sits silently in the rain, obviously not bothered in the least by it.
Kedwyr glances to the rain and then to Siwyn. "I am going to turn in for the night, meldanya. I shall see you on the morrow."
Siwyn nods, with acceptance.
Maewynne nods to Kedwyr. "Dream well, herunya."
Solinarius gives Quel a gentle pat on the shoulder before standing and making his way toward the campfire.
Quelion frowns as his comfortable spot moves.
Kedwyr nods a goodbye to those present and walks off to make his shelter. He gives Siwyn a big hug and a kiss.
Siwyn waves to Kedwyr.
Anormorn waves to Kedwyr.
Maewynne smiles to the pair.
Quelion sits with Solinarius.
Solinarius says, 'If I may? My lute has been waterproofed, and besides, I think the strings resonate more beautifully when wet.'
Maqrin sits down.
Maewynne says, 'Please sir, if you would.'
Solinarius nods once to Mae, kneeling to retireve the instrument from his pack.
Anormorn glances upward, blinking the rain from his eyes.
Naithion focuses his light blue eyes on Maewynne intently.
Maewynne hides deeper in Naithion's cloak and glances to the Elf.
Solinarius raps his knuckles on the baseboard, setting the timing before beginning to strum.
Naithion gestures with his eyes to Phaerel.
Palorus smiles.
((Palorus, Namlinea, and Maqrin are now quietly talking at the riverside. The others are gathered around the campfire.))
Maewynne smiles gently to Anormorn. "My thanks, as always, sir. You don't know how much good you've done today alone."
Namlinea chuckles.
Palorus laughs.
Maqrin laughs at Namlinea.
Naithion looks to Maewynne again. Then looks to Phaerel and back to her pointedly.
Anormorn shakes his head. "No need for thanks, though I percieve little of the help you say I've provided."
Maewynne bites her lip and shrugs minutely to Naithion as if to say, "What do I do?" She smiles to Anormorn. "You aid... many, sir."
((The mysterious lass from the earlier part of the journey appears as if from nowhere.))
Silif pokes Phaerel. Hey!
Phaerel glances over his shoulder, and opens his mouth in shock.
Quelion listens to Solinarius play and is moved by the tune.
Naithion looks Silif up and down suspiciously.
Quelion says, 'Not at all.'
Anormorn shrugs slightly, "I suppose I do, in an indirect sort of way."
Solinarius gently sets the lute down upon the ground, taking his seat with Quelion once more.
Phaerel says, 'Nay, open as can be.'
Silif points to Phaerel's hideous facial hair.
Maewynne looks to Anormorn. "Aye, you do. And how did our visitor arrive here unnoticed?" She edges closer to Anor.
Phaerel rubs his chin. "I happen to like it. Keeps me warmer than most company ever has."
Anormorn watches Maewynne come closer, curiousity on his face.
Maewynne folds her hands in her lap and watches, tilting her head to the side.
Phaerel dons his cloak and hood against the rain.
Siwyn misses the fire, and the maker of fires.
Quelion leans on Solinarius again.
Siwyn smiles.
Silif sits down.
Phaerel says, 'Join us, if you like. Well, I see that you have. *smirks*'
Namlinea nods in agreement.
Solinarius leans his head sideway, touching temples with Quel.
Silif snorts and coughs.
Siwyn hides a grin.
Phaerel says, 'er... eh?.'
Palorus looks up at the sky. "Well, other than weather related."
Siwyn smiles, trying to look diplomatic.
Phaerel says, 'YOu're short on ale, as usual, then? I have extra...'
Maqrin appears lost in thought once more.
Silif sighs.
Maewynne pulls down the hood of the cloak to hide her expression, blinking in the rain as it soaks the cloak after all this while.
Phaerel smiles grimly. "These are my kinsmen, by the way. Feel free to introduce yourself... and *do* try to be polite..."
Anormorn steals a glance to his left.
Namlinea laughs.
Phaerel winces.
Siwyn warms her hands gratefuly at the fire.
Palorus points to Maqrin. "Yeah, but I have lots of help with that now."
Silif bows deeply.
Solinarius says, '...'
Maewynne looks to Anormorn with a small smile.
Anormorn smirks roguishly.
Maqrin nods.
Solinarius places a hand over his coinpouch, intent on keeping it there.
Naithion narrows his eyes at her.
Maewynne blinks and arches a brow. She starts to say something and instead opts for a small sigh.
Phaerel says, 'Aye, those of us that tolerate being such. Bet you've had luck in Bree as of late.'
Phaerel bites his lip. "I have some to share, if you need."
Naithion says, 'I wouldn't share with self-proclaimed man slayers.'
Silif says, 'Give me!' She pokes Phaerel. Hey! 'You owe me!'
Phaerel takes a roll of rations from his pack and hands it to Silif.
Maewynne looks between Naithion and the woman, clearly startled and confused.
Silif says, 'Have trouble catching on there?' She covers her mouth quickly.
Maewynne offers a shy nod in reply.
Naithion says, 'She's a murderer.'
Phaerel grins. "It seems my *gift* is not catching on quickly enough, Sil."
Silif says, 'Can't be proved, I might add.'
Solinarius gently taps Quel's shoulder, jerking a thumb in Silif's direction.
Naithion says, 'You admitted to it.'
Silif says, 'Keep yer food.'
Maewynne looks to Naithion with no expression though her eyes are dark.
Solinarius says, 'This is why I stay away from women.'
Silif says, 'Elves are so...*coughs*'
Phaerel bows his head. "All this and rain, too." He laughs in frustration.
Naithion says, 'Yes?.'
Quelion wraps his arms around Sol's waist.
Silif says, 'Sorry can't hear you?'
Maewynne bites her lip lightly and looks to Naithion. "Still your blade, herunya, and your tongue."
Solinarius glances over to Silif. 'A thief, aren't you? So very fitting.'
Aradrian nods. He was not one for conversation, but deep down he knew he would have to break the boundaries of his eccentric nature and try to fit in with his race. There were certain things he was beginning to notice on the world that few might conceive.
Silif says, 'I mean no harm to presence company...save maybe one.' She purses her lips 'And he requires plenty of ale...'
Naithion says, 'You will be doing no harm to anyone here.'
Phaerel bites his lip. "Aye. I wonder who that might be? I meant you no harm, Sil."
Maewynne nods hesitantly and looks up to the sounds of footsteps on the path.
Quelion says, 'Not all women are so.'
Silif says, 'Trolls did not either I'm sure...'
Phaerel says, "Nay, she won't attack me. She owes me too much for that."
((Maewynne hears footsteps on the trail down to the valley and rather than be surprised once more with strangers coming to the camp, she goes to investigate. Dolen and Aradrian appear, bearing their game.))
Anormorn glances up and follows Maewynne.
Siwyn bows deeply before Quelion.
Maewynne smiles a bit to Dolen. "It seems we had a visitor even with a watch."
Solinarius looks over to the older Elf, a sudden sorrw in his eyes.
Quelion bows deeply before Siwyn.
Aradrian lunches over, both deer resting on his shoulder when he notices Maewynne. He says no words and simply listens.
Dolen nods at Mae over an arm full of dried kindling. He looks past them, curious, "Is that so?"
Naithion says, 'I told you she went unmentioned. Not unnoticed.'
Maewynne nods silently, her eyes wide.
Naithion says, 'She is trouble. Mark my words.'
Aradrian says, 'I'm putting these down.'
Dolen steps past the man and elf, arms burning from holding the bundle of firewood.
Quelion says, 'Mn. I'd agree, but the type of trouble is the question.'
Maewynne arches a brow to Naithion and warily checks her blade.
Silif giggles uncontrollably.
Aradrian sets the deer down and squints his eyes at the woman standing in the distance.
Dolen drops the bundle of wood and stokes the dying fire.
Naithion says, 'Well... I believe us three are safe. We are not Men.' He chuckles.
Phaerel says, 'Mayhap, but I owe them a bit.'
Siwyn listens to Gwaegold with a worried expression.
Quelion agrees.
Maewynne says, 'Master Dolen, we've only come this far and already I fear for myself.'
Silif bows deeply.
Solinarius says, 'We may be safe, but our coin most certainly is not.'
Naithion says, 'My coin is hidden.'
Phaerel bows deeply before Silif.
Naithion says, 'Not on my person at the moment.'
Dolen looks over at Maewynne, "You fear for yourself?" he asks, as if the notion was unheard of.
Quelion smirks gleefully.
Palorus shakes his head. "I've already been accused of that today. I'm not wise so much as I paid great attention to my father. He is wise."
Quelion says, 'Oh?'
Maewynne nods a bit.
Phaerel says, 'You as well. If you can be safe..'
Quelion says, 'I wonder where he buried it out here?'
Solinarius says, 'Off to rob another man of his livelyhood? Meh, good riddance.'
Aradrian looks to Phaerel. " What was that about?" he asks, nodding to the rider that ran up the side of the cliff.
Dolen turns to Ara, "If you would gut and clean those deer?"
Siwyn whispers to her leader with a frown.
Phaerel sighs.
Quelion admires the eagle.
Aradrian looks to Dolen, and though he is curious, says nothing and moves to gather the deer and prepare them.
Maewynne rubs her nose with her forefinger as she sighs slowly. "Siwyn's companion has sighted Orc, many of them. On the far side of the river."
Siwyn nods.
Maewynne says, 'We're safe here for our rest but not for long. We need to keep a better watch if any of us are to live for long.'
Phaerel says, "I found her in an orphanage in Dale. She needed help, and I needed to take an apprentice. She showed skill. The rest is lees pleasant."
Siwyn points something out.
Dolen says, 'Aye, there are many camps throughout this region, and down river as well. You think they'd slip by?'
Siwyn says, 'Go Gwae and be careful. Come back if they threaten.'
Quelion says, 'Along the river?'
Siwyn watches the eagle fly across the water.
Maewynne looks carefully afer the bird. She gratefully goes to the fire.
Solinarius says, 'They would have noticed the smoke from our campfire by now.'
Anormorn says, 'Not with all the smoke from Trestlebridge, I think.'
Siwyn says, 'Aye if they are hunting they will know of us.'
Maewynne says, 'Nan Wathren and a whole nest of Orc is closer than you may think, Solinarius.'
Siwyn says, 'True.'
Anormorn says, 'Let us then take our watches. I volunteer.'
Maewynne nods to Anormorn thankfully. "I appreciate it greatly, sir."
Solinarius says, 'We Elves do not need as much sleep as Men. We would be more than happy to take the Latewatch.'
Palorus eyes widen a moment as he remembers Maq's recount of his battles in Trestlebridge.
Maewynne smiles a little to Solanarius. "That would be kind."
Solinarius nods once to Maewynne. 'Think nothing of it.'
Siwyn bows deeply before Solinarius.
Dolen stokes the fire once again and moves to check on the deer preparation.
Maewynne glances over to Phaerel and then to her boots, the rain running from the hood of her cloak and down her nose in long drips.
Naithion nudges Phaerel in the back, pushing him toward Maewynne.
Siwyn pulls her long cloak out of her pack and pulls the hood up.
Aradrian rolls the deer carcass over on its back with the rump lower than it's shoulders and spreads the hind legs. Making a cut along the centerline of it's belly from breastbone to base of tail.
Phaerel says, 'Hands off, if you please.'
Dolen draws his belt knife and kneels beside the other man, examining the carcasses.
Anormorn says, 'I shall take my watch on the cliffs above.'
Naithion sighs, "You two are hopeless."
Siwyn chuckles.
Maewynne glances up at this and nods to Anormorn.
Phaerel says, 'Alright, my lady. It appears that you have something to say?.'
Anormorn kneels before Maewynne.
Solinarius nudges Quelion gently.
Maewynne says, 'I know you know your business better than I do, sir. So travel well and safely.'
Solinarius says, 'Care to come with me to gather some plants?'
Quelion glances at Solinarius.
Phaerel bows deeply before Anormorn.
Quelion says, 'Of course.'
Naithion says, 'Siwyn. Perhaps you and I should see what those two are up to down by the river?'
Solinarius gives the deer carcass a wide berth.
Maewynne watches with a raised brow as most of the campsite wanders away.
Quelion bows deeply before Anormorn.
Anormorn bows deeply before Quelion.
Naithion leaves Maewynne and Phaerel alone to talk.
Aradrian looks over to Dolen removing his gauntlets and preparing himself for the mess he was about to cause. " The cut should pass through the sternum and extend up the neck to the chin to allow removal of as much of the windpipe as possible."
Solinarius talks quietly with Quelion as he walks.
Maewynne nods towards the shoreline of the river.
Aradrian says, just in case Dolen does not know. " No need for tainted meat."
Dolen nods and sets about the task with the other animal, his honed knife doing a fine job of parting the thick hide. "Aye, I've done it a time or two myself."
((Maewynne and Phaerel head down to the shoreline of the river to talk. That part of the log I'm leaving out as it's of no interest to others.))
Maewynne busies herself with washing her face, though the rain is doing a good job of it without her help.
Dolen tosses a few more logs on the fire and stokes it to bring the flames back to life.
Aradrian looks to Dolen. " These deer should be leveled a bit above the fire, but I am sure setting them near the flame will do well enough." he says as he brushes some pebbles aside with his calloused foot. Setting the meat down beside the fire, he nods.
Dolen takes a seat by the fire and sets about making large cuts of meat, skewering them upon appropriately large branches and propping those near to the fire, placing them far enough from the flames to be seared and blackened, but not burnt.
Aradrian begins washing the blood and other excrements from his fingers. He nods but says nothing. " I suppose there are different pleasures in eating deer. I eat it burnt, for I need no seasonings..." he says shrugging. " I am sure the way he prepares it will be fine." He looks to Palrous and smiles. " I see you have come a ways since we last spoke. Good to know."
Dolen nods, "Likewise."
Palorus finds a nice sheltered spot near the rock and settles in for the night.
((The companions make camp. Some go to scout for more information while others rest and keep watch.))