Scouting Ahead, Part 2: The Path

[Varda]

Fainan:

Fainan set up a stew pot and started cooking. "I enjoyed both your songs very much, for their novelty and fine execution. Please raise your volume a bit, Haran, as I would learn the words!"

She shivered. "And when no song is going, the dark seems to press in with unnatural force rather than its usual comfort. Feel free to call me for second watch, as I don't think I will be able to sleep long anyway."

[arathorn]

Haran:

In response to Fainan, Haran dramatically exaggerated the final chorus verse and bellowed out:

"Heed not the hour, work work work,
Dig my lads, we shall not shirk!
Our duty's clear, by end of day,
We will have surely earned.. our.. paaaay!"

He then bowed absurdly low and announced "Anything for a fellow admirer of fine song!"

Oddly, while close to the ground he sensed a great feeling of malaise, as if the rock itself was racked with anguish. Rising unsteadily and somewhat flustered, he covered by saying "But of course I jest. That was a simple rhyme taught to stripling's in my day. Funny how one never forgets the words. One day I would sing you a grand laud of the great halls of old ... perhaps I may learn a few new verses from my kin should I end up visiting Lonely Mountain again with Auros."

While the anxiety passed, he felt he should discuss this reaction with someone, as it might portend ill tidings. He decided on Fainan since she was of this wood and might have a better knowledge of what could cause such distress in the earth. Walking over to her in the guise of admiring the scent of the meal she was preparing he spoke softly "A word with you Milady if you please. I do not wish to alarm the others, but a sudden urgency I've felt as if from the stony terrain itself..."

Sitting by a tree a short way from the simmering food, he waited for Fainan to join him.

[Shelob]

Estarion:

After traveing for long through woods, fields, deserts and over many mountains, Estarion finally had arrived at what he thought might be his destination. Of course, to him it was nothing more than another wood, which was rumored to be a dark place, where evil things dwelt. Not much did he know of this, for he did not go often into populated areas, and skirted those as often as necessary, for he did not wish to be seen.

But when he had traversed this dark wood for several days, he could not come to the conclusion that this "Mirkwood" was really all that evil. It was a name he had picked up from several Elves a few days back at the start of the forest. He remembered his own youth in his own forests, so far to the east, where evil was everywhere, but where his people dwelt. And even there it was scarce held at bay. But his people had managed to survive during long years in which the shadows retreated and lengthened. Now, the shadows had lengthened to a point which had never seen before. He was sent out to investigate a way that might stop this threat. It was unique, never before had anyone been sent out on an errand further than the next encampment.

The day before he had camped on the far side of a small river. He did not dare to drink that water, for it smelled foul and evil to him, even where the rest of the forest seemd tranquil to him. Today, he had crossed the river by means of a little boat that had been anchored on the other side and with a line crossing the river to pull it over. After he had crossed, he once again secured the boat to the side so others might pass. Even though the forest path was not much traveled, for he could see that it was a dark path to walk, even though he laughed at the dark, he did not stay on it, and kept abreast of the path, a good distance away from it, well beyond ears reach.

It was towards the end of the day, when the dark set in heavier than it normally was, to indicate nightfall, that he heard a strange guttural voice singing a song. Wondering what such a person might be doing in this forest, he went towards the sound as quietly as he could to investigate. He climbed into the trees to come upon them at unawares and see if this company might be the one he was looking for.

Just as he reached the boughs directly over the company, a branch he had just leaned on snapped with a sharp crack. Cursing in himself for his rash movement, he quickly retreated out of what might possible be a spot that would betray his presence. All he could do now was wait and see what happened.

[ArPharazon]

Calion:

A full day of sun and shadows had passed now, and Calion had settled himself on the ground, where the group had decided to camp. Nothing had happened since they rode away from the guard flet, and although shadows of evil had surrounded the party from time to time, Fainan had started a song which kept darkness at bay, and nobody had even noticed it. Well, almost nobody.

Calion had noticed during the ride how Helvy looked with fear and anger at the surroundings, sensing something undetectable by the speaking peoples. But the elf had been distracted by the sight of the dwarf, who actually seemed to enjoy the ride this time, instead of complaining, and had been studying the environment and singing of the others. Calion had sung too, though his eyes often went from side to side, and to Helvy.

But now, night had come, and still the river was still some distance away, probably at least half a day. They had gone slower than Calion the day before, but that did not matter. A camp had been set up, with Calion and Auros gathering firewood, and Fainan preparing cook a stew. Haran took the first watch, for although Calion would have volunteered, he was glad in a way, for he did not get much sleep the night before. And so, slowly he dozed off into a light sleep.

He woke up again soon, as Haran continued his singing, louder and louder, encouraged by Fainan. Even the horses and wolf turned their heads towards the dwarf, when he bellowed out the last verse. Calion observed the two, was glad when Fainan volunteered to be the second watch, and not less glad when he saw he had not missed the stew in his sleep.

While joining the others around the fire, something caught his eye. As Haran bowed down to the ground, something changed in his behaviour, and he rose quite unsteadily, but spoke his normal speech again soon. 'Perhaps he just hurt his back or something', Calion thought, and turned back to the warmth of the fire.

Suddenly, in a tree above them, a snap was heard, and a large branch fell to the ground. No bird could have done this, and there was not enough wind. Helvy jumped up, baying to the top of the tree, where many leaves rustled now. Calion, fearing that the spiders had advanced even further, took out a throwable dagger, signaled Fainan to aim an arrow, and shouted to the branches: "If you can understand us, who or whatever you are, reveal yourself now, and do not try to fool us with tricks! We will not hesitate to shoot!"

[Varda]

Fainan:

Fainan laughed, delighted with the enthusiasm of Haran's singing, as well as its strong push against the dark. But the last word puzzled her, perhaps a dwarvish term. "Pay?" Fainan asked aloud. "Of course, I would love to hear one of the higher songs of your people as well. You have been kind enough to listen to ours."

She eyed Haran with concern as he seemed to have some difficulty rising, but perhaps the unaccustomed riding of horses had caused the problem. He seemed well enough right after.

He felt distress in the stones of the earth? Could it have anything to do with the darkness? She tossed another pinch of cumin into the stew and gave it a stir. While it simmered, she could listen to whatever Haran could tell her.

As she walked to join the dwarf, a branch above cracked. Even as she drew her bow and nocked an arrow, aiming towards the retreating sound, she heard Calion's warning. Fainan held back the shot so near release, to give whomever her fellow Mirkwood scout had called to the time to answer. Perhaps it was one of his guard friends foolishly trying to give them a scare. She felt amusement at Calion's saying they would not hesitate to shoot, as she had done just that for him.

[Eonwë]

Auros:

Auros listened to the Dwarf song with amusement, but watched the outer darkness as well. He had begun running a whetstone along the end of his sword blade, a chore not really necessary, as the battle with the wolves did not dull the blade, nor their dark blood etch it. He needed to do something as he thought, and his blade would give him warning if orcs did come near. No tint to it except the golden light of the fire.

"Pay?" he heard Fainan ask.

He began, "Dwarves and Men seek compensation for their skills, usually in the form of gold, which is then.." but he stopped short as a branch above snapped. Rising from his position, he used his sword to push himself up. No pain in my arm. That's good.

Sheathing Angran, he drew his hunting knife and prepared for what awaited. The horses shifted when the wolf howled, but they did not seem nervous, yet.

[arathorn]

Haran:

Hearing the commotion, Haran leaped to his feet axe at the ready and in an aside to Fainan spoke 'This could be the reason for the angst I felt moments ago. Curse my dwarvish caution for not bringing it to the attention of all. Well, we shall not be caught unawares the next time..."

"You in the treetops... be wary of your next move. You may be in the land of benevolent elven folk, but a dwarf stands below you who may not be as forgiving should you chose unwisely. Show yourself and state your business, we are not to be trifled with!"

Quickly and silently he dropped one hand from his melee weapon and clamped it around the hilt of his throwing axe using the tree trunk as defense against any attack from above. Nodding to Fainan he scrambled up the side to get a better vantage point up top.

[Shelob]

Estarion:

Astonished about the quick response of that fateful crack, Estarion nearly loses his footing, but somehow remains on his feet without making a sound.
Seeing to his amusement that the entire party is carefully watching the spot where he had just snapped the branch, he makes quickly for the side of the trail and in the tree that the weird guy with the guttural voice and facial hair is using for cover.

While making his way there, even in the short time that gave him, his thoughts raced. When he was sent from home, he was told he would meet some people who might be able to help him. Of course, none of the elders could describe the people he was to meet very well, but on one thing they were very clear: "Their party is diverse, and at their guard at all times." Maybe these might be the people that he needed..

Quickly descending from the tree, he reveals himself behind the ..... yeah, what is it? ..... for future reference, let's call it a hairgnome.
"Hail and well met noble adventurers! I am Estarion, son of Estareg of house Estelwe. I offer my apologies for sneaking up and startling you so. Will you accept my services?"
He shows his hands palms up as token that he is unarmed and means no harm.

[Varda]

Fainan:

Fainan side-stepped to be out of the way of the sword if it should be needed, her arrow aimed at the stranger's chest. By his gear and appearance, this was no Elf of the Greenwood nor of Rivendell. Haran would have plenty of room to throw an axe and Calion was lethally ready. How quickly she had grown to trust this fine group!

This was Auros' mission, so she kept quiet to listen for his cue. Personally, she would rather skewer this stranger who had came on them stealthily, asking about him later.

[Eonwë]

Auros:

Auros stepped forward towards the voice, knife still in his left hand, his right hand resting on his swordhilt.

"A polite one you are, and must be, to cross Mirkwood's borders with no escort. " While saying this to the newcomer, he motioned to Haran to join him to his right side, a few paces away. Two close targets will give the others a chance to react. Auros positioned himself between the newcomer and the fire, slightly closer to the newcomer than Haran.
I will be able to observe him, but he will have to look at me with the fire behind me, and my features will be darkened in his eyes.

Fainan would be able to fire over his shoulder, and Calion would have a shot on Haran's side. He had no doubt they would hit their mark if this turned sour.

He examined the newcomer closely, as he had Calion and Fainan. Hmm. A completely ungaurded mind. It's as if he has never known treachery, his enemies always obvious in their appearance and intentions.

"What brings you here? Speak quickly!"

He did not take his eyes off of the stranger as he spoke, studying every inflection, every movement made, for a sign of ill intent. There was a shadow about the newcomer; not one that emenated from him, but one that clings as a cobweb clings when one walks through it. The shadow cobwebs were wispy, as if he had carried them some distance from their origin.

[Shelob]

Estarion:

Not surprised by these people's reactions, Estarion stays still without making the slightest movement that might indicate a threat.

"It is a long story to tell, and I reckon too long to tell at this awkward moment. Darkness and danger have crept upon our lands as they had never done before. So I have been sent a long time ago by the elders of my house. They told me to search for a party far to the west, made from different people, always at their guard and on a special mission. I believe my search has ended, for I believe you are that company. If I had not thought so, I would have fled back into this.... Mirkwood, and not have returned to continue my search."

Estarion watches everyone with a look of hope in his eyes, which betrays his anxiety for his home.

"I have told you my reasons for being here, and I hope you now trust me enough to let me tell my story in full by the camplight. I know that these reasons alone, and without hearing the full story will not be enough to be trusted in full, so I will endure whatever watch you set on me."

He makes a small bow and with a trained eye, one could see the glint of steel just behind his back.
"I give to you, for safekeeping, my sword."
In a fluid motion, with speed and grace that besets the mastery of the sword, Estarion withdraws his sword from his back and holds it out on his hands, while remaining in the same position, head bowed down, as to indicate no resistance will be offered.

[Eonwë]

Auros:

Listening to this tale, Auros watched the newcomer carefully, looking into his eyes.
There is no lie in his tale, which means at the least he believes it.

Watching the newcomer carefully as he bowed, Auros noticed the sword on his back. With a motion as smoothly as Auros could've done, the newcomer took the sword from his back and offered it to Auros. Auros hid a small smile. The newcomer was good.If he did decide to attack, I wouldn't be in any shape to fight him with this wound. Not that I wouldn't try.

Auros reached out and took the sword. Sheathing his knife, he motioned to the fire. "Have a seat. We are about to sup. You may join us and share your tale."

Glancing to the others, he hoped they would read his thoughts to them.
Fainan: You can lower your bow.
Calion: Keep a dagger ready.
Haran: Keep guard from behind.

[Shelob]

Estarion:

Nodding slowly, Estarion said: "Thank you for such grace, mayhaps I too, may learn of you and your company, for I am eager to know more about these lands and peoples so strange to me."

When walking over to the fire, he stopped a short time next to the elf who clearly was in charge, as he did all the talking. Speaking soft enough so it would not be heard by anyone by the leader.
"Do not worry about that wound too much, it will heal soon, and I will not be the one to attack you while it hasn't yet."
Not awaiting a reply, Estarion continued to the fire and sat down, his back towards the elves and the hairgnome, as if fear meant nothing to him.

[Varda]

Fainan:

Fainan hesitated only slightly before lowering her bow and putting it behind her back.

Shifting actions, she dished out a bowl for their visitor, then for the others.

As she did so, she commented to Auros with an unsettled smile, "You hardly have need of us as escort. Take Estarion alone and pass by everything in the Greenwood unnoticed! I fear a lot of guards and perhaps we are about to be in trouble with our captains."

[Eonwë]

"Do not worry about that wound too much, it will heal soon, and I will not be the one to attack you while it hasn't yet."

Auros:

The words from the newcomer gave Auros pause for a moment, noticeable only to the observant, before he recovered and turned toward the fire.
How did he know? Did he read my thoughts, or did he read my movement? Did I let my guard fall? Perhaps being around these Silvans who cannot discern thoughts as readily as the Calaquendi has made me uncautious about my own mind. Or perhaps it was the way I took his sword, something that indicated my right arm was injured.

There was also the meaning of the latter of his words.
Perhaps he will try me when my arm heals? Or does he warn me of dangers ahead?

Auros took a seat across from the newcomer, looking over the fire at him, studying him. The wisps of shadow clinging to him shied away from the fire, wisping in the opposite direction. He caught it. A slight hint of uncertainty. About what? He wouldn't push into the newcomer's mind without better than suspicion. Auros was not a servant of Morgoth, and neither was the newcomer. One cannot serve the Dark Lord and not know treachery or learn to guard one's mind.

Auros took the bowl and thanked Fainan. Still watching the newcomer, he replied to her remark, "I am not convinced it would be so safe a journey. As for you, Lady Fainan, and Calion, you shall be in better light when standing before your king than many of your fellows this near to the Enchanted River."

There were other ways to read the newcomer, to see the limits of his honesty. He says he is a warrior, and seems to carry himself as one.
"One thing you will answer, before your tale is told." Auros drew the newcomer's sword from its sheath, in a quick, fluid motion. Using the sheath to prop the blade (I won't go so far as to touch it) he examined the sword closely.
"Tell me, Estarion, where did you get this blade? It does not seem to me to be the work of an Avarin smith. What say you, Master Haran? You are a fellow smith and a well-travelled Dwarf. Have you seen its like in the smithies of the Dark Elves?"

Auros watched carefully the newcomer for his reaction, while appearing to be showing the blade to Haran and waiting for his response.